Vegmom Moments

Business Travel - My Thoughts

While changes are coming in my work life, there is one thing that I will NOT miss!  And that is Business Travel.  Some people are cut out for traveling.  I however am NOT.

Granted, I got pretty good at it.  Knowing what food to pack so I don't go hungry in no-veg land.  Stacks of clothes ready in advance, and having my toiletry bag pre-packaged for a moment's notice. 

{Hotel and Conference Food - Chips, Avocado, Lemon, Banana, Almond Butter, Raw Goji Cherry Truffles, Oat mix and Chia seed mix}

My Sheet Sleep Sack and comfy slipper socks became stock items.  I can rent a car in seconds, navigate any airport, learned the difference between taxis and shared shuttles (the hard way) and that blackberries in the same pocket as a room key can make it not work.  

Emergency numbers were pre-printed and ready for the family, treasures were always placed strategically to keep the Vegkid happy in my absence and food was pre-made for their eating pleasure.

I Learned where the nearest Veg friendly food was to each hotel and I can pretty much tell you where every Starbucks is between the Atlantic and Pacific...  

But even with all that figuring, pre-pepping, and readiness, the whole travel thing for the purpose of Business is EXHAUSTING!!!!   I don't know how people do it.  Travel days Drain me both physically and mentally, being away from home stinks, all day meetings without seeing the light of day drive me batty, being a presenter takes my nerves to a whole new level, hand shakes are inevitable and don't even get me started on hotel germies or Down Feather Pillows (that the hotel said they removed but didn't... see proof):

{insert swollen itchy eyes for whole trip... thanks hotel}

All that said, there are a few good things about Business travel.   Like I get a quiet night sleep with no interruptions (usually), I get to eat what I want without cooking for 3 different people on any given day.  I get some time to myself to just be me, get to see new places AND the best part of Business Travel, is when I find a Whole Foods!!

Because when I find a Whole Foods, I find things like this:

And This:

Shirts like This:

And this:

Finding a Whole Foods on any trip is always a good thing!!

But even with Whole Foods on the agenda, I won't miss business travel one single iota! 

Thankfully the trip this week was a short one, I ate really really good, it is great to be home and I do love my two new shirts.  In case you were wondering!! *smile*

Maybe the next time I travel will be because its a vacation.  Those kind of trips, are the best!

 

 

 

 

Home At Last

This was definitely the longest length that Veg and I have been away from home.  If it was a trip to the beach, I'd probably be sad to be home after that much time being gone.  But since this was a trip filled with Cold, rainy, windy days, I can say that being home where it is 60+ Degrees and Sunny makes me a happy camper.  I'm sure the freeze is coming this week, but today was an amazing day to be here.

My bed last night was so inviting, and my shower...  Ahhh, I do love our water pressure!  Now, I can't say that I love all the laundry waiting for me, nor the messes that were left for my return, BUT... WELCOME HOME, is what I say *smile*

Today we got to pick up the Pup, and I missed him so much.  I was excited to see that those at his "hotel" were sad to see him go.  Not excited that they were sad, but excited that he was clearly loved while there.  Several came out to say goodbye to him, which was the sweetest!

And Mr. Vita-Mix...  Oh, how I missed thee!!   A Gigantic Green Smoothie graced my belly.  Veg even downed a glass first thing this morning.  I felt the glow coming back to my skin one sip at a time.

Our entire journey took us 2200 miles in the Mini.  That little awesome car did a great job keeping us safe.

I went places and did things on this trip that I never knew possible.  Lighthouses, to Airplanes, to dangling from trees 45ft in the air.  Yeah, I told ya it was interesting.   

We got to see family and friends that we don't usually see, Veg and I got to spend some awesome adventure time together (that neither of us will ever forget), he got to spend time with all his grand parents by himself, and I got to learn a little bit about myself at a camp in the boonies.

As for Hubs??  Yeah, we missed him too *wink*  And I think he missed us...(Until Veg and I both woke him up on his only day off because we each went to the bathroom at different times)  Whoops!!  

Hey, when you gotta go, you gotta go!  But he really liked all his treasures while we were gone, and we have spent most of the day together, which is super rare lately.

With that, I shall take a pause from here for a couple days (maybe), Its back to work for me, and lots to catch up, lots to do in this house too, plus some reading material to get through..

Hope all is well where ever you are!!!!!!  

 

Camp to Hotel

I went from this:

To This:

In One Day!!!

Which do YOU think I like better?  Sorry for being so spoiled rotten, but I am!   And not afraid to say so.

Tomorrow we make the rest of our journey home!   What a crazy couple weeks...

And I mean CRAZY!    

 

Vegmom At Camp Day Two!

On Day TWO, I still hate sleep over camp.   Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah......  You know the rest!

But I did have some very fun moments today.

Of course I can't talk about them here, but lets just say I got enough excercise, that I'm probably good for the month.  I also know that when I get home, I really have to work on my arms..  Man am I weak!!

And I must admit that they have been very accomodating with the food options which was cool.  And like my friend pointed out, at least I didn't have to worry about down feathers in this bed!   *smile*

In other business, look who was at my door when I came back from dinner:

I had to take a phone pic so the eyes make him look creepy, but he really was cute!  And YES that is my bedroom door, where I will attempt to sleep tonight.  Poor little guy was hiding from the rain.

I eventually convinced him to hide from the rain elsewhere so I could get my door open... I sure hope he ran far, as other people may not take so kindly to his little self.

Alas, Another day is done here in the wilderness.

Back at the Ranch however, my Kiddo Convinced his Grandparents to Watch Forks Over Knives, which I think is the coolest thing EVER!

As for Hubs, well he is the one getting Treasures this trip, I left him a treasure box with a surprise each morning and I'm thinking he has been a happy camper.

With that I shall say good night!

**Update** Talking to Vegkid on the phone, I told him about the mouse, and he said I should have caught him in a box and brought him in my cabin till the rain stopped.   I'm thinking the mouse wouldn't have liked that idea. 

Vegmom Goes to Camp

Let me start this post by saying, I AM THAT kid that did not like going to camp.

They say that you have treasured life changing experiences at those childhood camps.  Ummmm NO!

I HATED CAMP... I don't use that word often but I really really really HATED camp.   The only thing life changing is that I learned I would never go back!!  What did my Mom do? 

SEND ME BACK THE NEXT YEAR!!!  Now, I don't blame my Mom as she had to do what a single mom had to do.  Back in those days, sending your kid to sleep over camp was a guaranteed baby sitter when Mom had to work.

But fast forward 27 years and guess what... I STILL HATE CAMP!!!  And I know this as I sit in a Bunk Bed in a cabin in the woods in the boonies, with bugs, creaky doors, spider webs, shared bathrooms, storms and people chatting near me..

Did I mention, buffet style food, people standing on my head (don't ask) and space bubble invasions by the country loads.

WHY am I at camp, you may ask?  Because there is a work thing, and I didn't have a choice.  I'm supposed to learn something here before it is all over.

I can tell you that I will definitely learn lots, but one thing I have already learned after 12hrs...

I STILL HATE CAMP!!!   

Can someone please send me a hotel room that contains my comfort zone, with a bed bigger than my pillow, some food that no one else has touched, a bathroom with a real locking door that no one else is currently using and a giant non-invading space bubble.

K- Thanks!

 

 

 

Our Visit to Meijer Gardens

During our drive time adventure to Lake Michigan we tried to stop at a couple Cider Mills with Activities, each was closed on Sunday.

So on our way back from Grand Haven, Veg asked what we were going to do next.  I had no plans, so I told him we would just head back and if something caught our eye, we would stop.

Suddenly we came up on a sign that said "Next Exit Frederick Meijer Gardens"..... OOH WOW!!! 

I had seen that place on line, but thought it was too far away.  Didn't realize it was on our way back!

Knowing this place could take 4+ hours to see everything, and we only had an hour before they closed, we walked in speed mode to the Children's area:

(disclaimer, I did not attempt to go through the mouse hole door, but Veg fit nicely and thought it was the coolest thing)

The place was Beautiful, as was the art work;

And the building... Oh My, The Building (HUGE):

Even though we only spent an hour, I'm glad we stopped.  He ran through the Tree Houses, the Maze, the Labyrinth, the Senses Garden, and the Water activity.  We saw a couple things inside too.  He actually didn't want to leave, but time was not on our side.

Truth be told, I was ready to drive back at that point, so I didn't hesitate to rush the Child.

NeeNee met us at the hotel for Dinner and a Movie, while I packed up for the next leg of our trip...  

And this concludes the posts for our Random Adventure Day!

Road Trip Adventure Day

Veg and I decided to get up early and have a Mom/Son Adventure day!  

We are doing so much driving on this trip, I figured why not throw in another 320 miles?

Here are a couple hints about how our adventure turned out:

To be continued....

Another Cider Mill off the List

When we were kids we went to Cider Mills in Michigan but didn't really appreciate them. At least I didn't.  I remember dreading those (what seemed like) long drives and then being chased by bees.  

I just assumed the tastes and smells of a Cider Mill were everywhere.  I figured all states had apples?  I took for granted how special those places really are.  When fall time came, everyone had Pumpkin patches, fresh apples, fresh cider and the best cinnamon donuts in the world, right?  

WRONG!!!  Hubby and I spent 15 years trying to find the perfect cider and perfect donut from our pasts.  There wasn't a state we lived in or a state we visited that could compare.  Eventually we gave up, put cinnamon sticks in a pot and sucked up the smell of Fall in our own way.

Then Veg came along.  I wanted him to have those childhood memories of the Cider Mill, but I wanted his to be great ones.  We went on a Michigan Mission, to hit as many Cider Mills as we could..  Mostly finding those that had kids activities.  He has had the best of times, I have some of the greatest pictures, and we all have amazing memories.   It is a trip he looks forward to every year.  

For him, Cider Mills and Michigan are a vacation spot and a place to see his grandparents.  But today was a Special Cider Mill Day.  Not only did we find one that he hasn't been to before, but he got to go with his Uncle and it happened to be that very Cider Mill that me and his Uncle went to when we were kids.

I believe we have hit a total of 15 over the past few years on our Cider Mill tours... And never stopped at this one until today. (thanks Uncle J)

I love that their Barn says "A Family Tradition"  because it really is!!  Especially in this family!!

Uncle J, got an extra yummy treat:

Donuts and cider also did NOT go untouched!

But the very best part of this day, is that it wasn't planned.  We were supposed to go do something else and the weather didn't cooperate.

I'm not complaining about that!!

P.S.  I may or may not have had one of these once we left our adventure today:

Oh, don't judge, I'm on Vacation...*wink*

Some Good Travel Eats

Well, it is day 3 of our journey and outside of a Vinkie nibble, I have avoided all my stomach upset culprits.

While still feeling fulfilled and ready for each day.

Thanks to my new Mini Cutting board, the lemon water to start my day has continued:

And Organic Fruit of Plenty have found my belly:

I'm also becoming a Chia Seed Addict.  

A tiny bit makes a great filling snack, while a bit more with nutbutter added, makes a filling breakfast.  It is the best hotel food EVER!  

Its easy to travel with, easy to make and good for me too:

The other great thing about Michigan visits are the salads.  You can pretty much go ANYWHERE and find a great big salad:

You can't tell by this picture, but the bowl is so large that it could fit my whole head plus some.  

Needless to say there have been some good eats (And some good coffee)  

As for the People, well they've been alright too.  *wink*  3/4 of those that we normally visit are sickly, so we are staying away from them which is a bummer.  Veg got to spend some time with his Uncle and Grandma which he has been bouncing off the walls about.

And tonight he got to meet some people that I haven't seen in 20 or 30 years...  Interesting to say the least!

....too be continued.....

Vegan Food IN THE MALL FOOD COURT

I'm Not talking about a restaurant or cafe that also carries Vegan fare, I'm talking about an entirely VEGAN spot IN the food court at Dayton Mall.

I thought that was the coolest thing:

Loving Hut:

I had a Salad:

Veg Had Spring Rolls and Sweet Potatoes Fries:

I will not confirm or deny this, but I may or may Not have had some of those fries.

Then we shared some Potato Leek Soup:

And for dessert, we shared a VINKIE...  Yes that would be a "Vegan Twinkie"  A Vinkie!

I posted the other day that for me to eat something with wheat again, it would have to be really worth it.

Yeah, Well... Having one bite of this thing was soooooo worth it!  And soooo Good!

Disclaimer:  I don't have Celiac, or even a Vinkie wouldn't tempt me to eat wheat, but since mine is just a sensitivity, I know the consequences of my digestion/skin and head, by partaking in such a treat.   And thankfully, this bite didn't hit me too hard.  Besides, I HAD to try it, as the good responsible parent before allowing Veg a bite, right????  *wink*

FYI - It was French Toast Flavored in case you were wondering, and OH MY YUM!!!  

Also in the food court was a Saxby's Coffee, I noticed all their Fall stuff, and asked if by chance their Pumpkin Spice mix was Vegan.  And she said YES!!!  REALLY????    There aren't many Vegan Pumpkin Spice options, so I was surprised and had to support the cause.

I mean, I didn't have a choice right?  I was left there with a Vegan option in front of my eyes and another 4hrs worth of driving before our final destination.. It was a critical moment (or maybe lapse in judgement) 

But I got an Iced Americano with a Pump of Pumpkin Spice (Coffee, Water and Pumpkin).... Yum!

It was actually a little sweet, but nothing I couldn't handle.

That concludes our Stop in Dayton.  

If you ever find yourself there, be sure to check out the Airforce Museum, and maybe some yummy Vegan Treats!  (We even passed by an Earthfare).  Not a town that I will go hungry in, thats for sure!

Thinking we'll be stopping through again!

 

Our Adventure to the Air Force Museum

We have driven through Ohio at least 40 times, but Never stopped in Dayton.  Who knew there was this hidden gem of an adventure day waiting for us.

National Museum of the USAF

Today, after 3 bouts of Kid Car Sickness, almost being run off the road 3 times (poor little car), One wrong turn (before we even left town-don't ask), 5 Bathroom stops and and me stepping in Goose Poo... we decided to stop at this Museum in route to Michigan.

The directions were easy to follow (even for me, who makes a wrong turn just leaving home town)  and  we arrived at the perfect time of day.

It was busy enough that we counted 26 States on license plates JUST in the parking lot.  It was a BIG place!!  But not too crowded that we didn't have space to ourselves once in side.

Not only did they have some of the best memorials I have ever seen, but it was HUGE, the exhibits were massive.  Planes hanging from the ceiling, planes on the ground, pieces of planes stuck to the walls.  There were missiles, space craft, weapon exhibits of all kinds.  A cool kids area with soo many things to learn and see.  We also saw a bunch of NASA stuff as well as Balloons, wooden planes, helicopters, uniforms, medals, I can't even put it all in writing.

We learned about all the Wars.   Veg started out wanting to read EVERYTHING, but realized how long that would take, and went in to "look and walk" mode.

Best of all, the whole thing is FREE... as in ZERO dollar... Unless you find yourself in the Massive Gift Shop, in the Imax, or cafe, you can walk out totally not spending a dime.  Our adventure lasted the better part of 3hrs, and we could have stayed longer, but had to get back on the road.   We did leave a donation, but this is not required nor pushed.

I took a lot of pictures, but they do not show this place as it really is.   Because of the lighting (for preservation) I didn't get the best of shots, I also took out the ones with Vegkid face (because that is how I am) and you really can't see the SIZE of anything.. but trust me, HUGE!  We must have walked a couple miles just on the inside going back and fourth and still didn't see everything. Not to mention the outside exhibits and aircraft.

All I can say is WOW what our men/women have gone through to defend our country.  Just Amazing!!!  Thank you Thank you Thank you to those serving our Country now and all those that have gone before them!!  Thank you to all the volunteers that work at the Museum to share the stories of those that no longer have a voice.  Thank you for allowing my Son to learn and grow up appreciating everything that our Military does for us and for the safety and security that he is allowed to have because of you!

Here are a few pics from our adventure day:

LOVE THIS:

I wish these pictures could express the true size (you can click to make the pictures a little bigger, still doesn't show it good though):

Looking down from a balcony!!  Sooo many!

Gigantic Quilt:

This was a cool simulator activity that Veg got to play with.

Now for this next one, I'm going to put a page break as there is a word inappropriate for children... I'm actually posting this pic as a laugh to those of you that know me... (yeah, I try not to say words like this)  

 

Raw and Not So Much

As I continue this adventure to Optimum Health and Feeling my 150% Best, there are lots of things I'm still learning about what my Body is OK with and what it doesn't like.

Some Raw, Some Cooked but Almost All Vegan...

However the list of things I don't eat is growing:

Things I won't eat as a Vegmom:

• Meat --- This one started for health reasons - Saying goodbye to meat lowered my cholesterol by 90 points, regulated my blood pressure and stabilized my sugar.  But now also Ethical and Environmental reasons drive my decision to avoid meat.
• Dairy --- This one took a little longer to eliminate, but for health, ethical and environmental, I said bye bye to Dairy, Environmental Allergies and Sinus Infections.  I also watched my cholesterol drop another 50 points and all my joints stopped aching!
• Eggs --- These I'm actually allergic to.. Badddd news!  I have flu like symptoms from these little chicken periods.  But the more I have learned, the more I know I'd stay away from them regardless of the allergy

Things that are Veg friendly but I've learned my body doesn't like:

• Wheat (sigh) --- Digestion Issues, Headaches, Fatigue (as in can't get out of bed)
• Soy (eek) --- Skin Problems
• Quinoa (gasp) --- Digestion
• Raw Zucchini (cooked is OK)  --- Raw provides Digestion and headache trouble
• Cashews --- Digestion
• Pistachios ---- Digestion
• Flax Seed ---- Can't explain this one.. I eat and I feel yuck all over

And of course there is the list of things I just won't eat, whether my body pretended to like them or not:

• Artificial Sweeteners
• Artificial Preservatives
• Dyes
• Chemicals where known
• GMO foods where known

So people now ask "What do you eat?"  (as if they didn't ask that before)  What I have discovered along this journey is my absolute LOVE for finding great natural, plant based foods that I enjoy and that my system can tolerate...  

The more I search, the more I find things that I never would have tried before.  And the more I find, the more I love to eat.  The more I learn, the more I realize, I've probably had these sensitivities my whole life.

<Hello Projectile Vomiting Baby, breathing issue kid and fainting teen,  just sayin!>

Many of the things I'm enjoying now are not cooked, and several are cooked but served with Raw items.  

Currently my two favorite things are Raw Cauliflower and Cooked Chickpeas!

This weeks Cauliflower was mashed!

And the Chickpeas?  Well.. They are Happy Herbivore Hawaiian Chickpeas of course:

So while travel is going to become more difficult (I can't just go grab a pasta dish or cheese-less pizza) I am up for the challenge to feel my best.

This next Michigan Trip will have me on my toes.  Will I cave and eat my old bready favorite foods, then feel it the next day?   Or will I make the trip a successful Gluten Free adventure and see how I feel.

While the first and last lists above are non-negotiable, the middle one does make things a little more complex.  All I can promise right now, is that it will take me being Very Very Very hungry or very very very weak that I cave to the goodness of my favorite wheat filled veggie foods.  

And if I do Cave, it better be for something really really really good!

Like this amazing Veggie Pizza from a place in Howell:

Stay tuned, as my healing food journey continues!

Travel - I'll be Prepared next Time

My last business travel excursion brought with it a terrible food experience.  

And there was no reason that I shouldn't have been more prepared.  It is different when flying and you can't take certain things with you or don't have the space.  But when Driving, I should have no excuse.  

Now to my defense, I did think there was a Veg Store near by, and figured I would stock up there, but they happened to be closed!  Boo!!

SOooo. then I saw this post from the Pure2Raw girls, and thought Duhhhhh (As VegKid would say)...  Why didn't I think of that?

They carry a little cutting board and knife with them.  Then some fruit and veggies that are easily portable, and Voila!  I stuck that little suggestion in the back of my brain.

While shopping this week, I found the cutest little cutting board and a knife with cover that will be perfect for hotel food chopping.

Thanks Pure2Raw for the idea.  I'll be ready next time....YES I will!!!

The Travel Food Story Continues

My friend reminded me today that I've had a lot of Good travel food lately and really shouldn't complain.  Truth is, I'm not complaining, just finding humor in the situation.  And besides, if I didn't give my friend something to laugh about by posting this stuff when I travel, she would be very disappointed in me.  

Which can't happen!!

So today's food situation went like this!

Started my morning with a sip of the lemon/wheat grass stuff from yesterday, then a Starbucks beverage and some strawberries.

To be on the safe side, I grabbed a processed green juice (better than nothing) and almond'ish bar from Starbucks to accompany me to my meetings.

By lunch time, I was really ready for this "VEGAN" goodness that I was promised..

The lady that ordered the food said "You will be so thrilled with your vegan meal, I got salad and a mozzarella sandwich"

hmmm?  Did she just say MOZZARELLA and Vegan in the same sentence?  Maybe it is vegan mozz?  maybe?  OK, not going to fret yet, I will just eat the salad... all will be ok, I will have yummy food!

Few minutes later the food arrives...  NOT VEGAN.. Not even Vegetarian!  The salad had turkey, marshmallows, cheese and eggs....  Seriously?  And the sandwich was a giant slice of Mozz on a piece of sour dough bread.

Needless to say that Green Juice, Almond bar and potato chips held me through the day.  

While visiting with a co-worker that lives here, he suggested I stop at a place near by for dinner.

Which is where I found THIS Veg Pizza!

Spinach and greens, onions, zucchinis, pesto, tomatoes, and vinaigrette dressing on top of a flat bread crust!  

I devoured every last bit!  Gluten or no gluten, I was eating that pizza.    Oh it was soooo tasty!!

OK, so I get back to my room, my stomach started doing summersaults and my head started pounding..

Either my body is very mad at me from the stress of the day, or my body really does NOT like Gluten!!!!

I sure hope there are some salad fixings in my house tomorrow, or this Vegmom will be making a shopping trip.  A Gluten Free Shopping trip!

Cincinnati Day One Continued

This post was left with a to be continued.. So here I am... continuing!

Later that evening, I was getting really hungry as in feeling yuck.  Normally I'm much more prepared, but knowing that store was near by, I didn't concern myself with packing a lot of stuff.   Major Fail on my part!

That is when I asked Concierge for a map of some food options near by.  "Any place with a good salad" was my question, and he responded with:

"Are you one of those Veg people?"

"Yes, Yes I am" I said proudly..  

He proceeds to rattle off some Italian places listing all the Cheese filled dishes they have, and I shook my head.  Asking again for the map, of which he was holding hostage by circling every place in a 10 mile radius that I pretty much would Not be eating!

"Oh, you won't eat cheese either"

Nope, no cheese.  

"Ohhhh, your one of those!!!  Do you people eat pasta?" he asked genuinely.

Hmmm, Yes, us people eat pasta, but this people just feels like a really big salad....I thought to myself!

Back up to the room I went, all flustered and double hungry.. ate the rest of my kale chips:

And evaluated the map, which the kind man in the lobby finally gave me..  

That is when I found paradise!

THANK GOODNESS for Chipotle!

Day One Food Situation Solved!

Now, let me say that eating Veg foods should not be this difficult for the average bear.  Worse case scenario, I would just find a pasta, or sandwich, or something easy.  But I'm trying to avoid Gluten as well (or was.. that is for another post) 

I also needed to watch where I was walking, as I was traveling alone and I only brought one dressy outfit for my meeting, so going out fancy all by myself was not going to work.

So thank you Chipotle for being there!! 

 

Vegmom in Hiding

Don't have time to post a real post, but I'm back from a wonderful unplugged short but sweet vacation....Here are some hints about where we went:

 

Trying to get Home Part 2

Well we made it to Texas... 1/2 way Home... Now finding the next gate was a little tricky. I found 6,7,8, and 10... 9 was hiding!!

Come out come out where ever you are, little gate... Oh and came across the incredibly flushing toilet. It flushed 5 times from door open to leaving the stall and I only went #1.

Speaking of toilets...Why oh Why do airport bathroom doors open IN... Don't they know that people have suitcases at airports?? A little suitcase room would be nice. I'm just sayin!

Found some Veggie food options and smoothies at the airport... Chillin' until next flight... First I gotta find where gate 9 is hiding..

Bye for now!

Update... Walked the entire terminal (yeah still in Texas) and finally saw a Cowboy Hat...a really Big Cowboy hat on a really tall good lookin' Fella...shhhhh, don't tell the hubs.

Also saw lots of soldiers... My heart goes out to all of them and their families. But one young man in uniform caught my eye. Couldn't have been older then 19 just passed near me with a cane to walk. I'm sure he had such a story to tell and yet so young. Hugs to all of you in uniform past and present..

Trying to get Home Part 1

Flight was found when I arrived at airport, so that is a Bonus... Taxi ride fast and smooth... Security line short and easy.. except... Ummm... I was violated...

Apparently my Pony Tail is cause for concern..  YES, I'm here to share.... That my entire body can go through an Xray machine (pretty sure my hair was attached to my head at the time) and yet, on the other side of the machine.. I hear...

"Ma'am, I have to pat down your pony tail"

Well I'm not going to say NO...  But my hair... It felt so violated...  Of all the body parts, I had no idea that my hair was so suspicious....We survived that experience (Me and my Pony Tail) ...  the Trauma was minimal...

Especially when I found the Starbucks Counter... Ahhhhhhhhhhh... Now I wait for Plane One to board... As I strategically sit between two concourses, in case they change gates at the last minute... See, I'm prepared... I'm ready....

You silly little Monitors can't fool me!!

My Days in California

You may remember on Wednesday, I was supposed to make it to California by 12 Noon.. for a Business meeting that started at 5:00.

Wellllll, I had just a few delays, a couple detours.. and some how ended up in Salt Lake City for a total of 20 minutes...

See... Really, I was there...

I had to take these pictures from the plane to prove it...   Hello Utah.. Good Bye Utah...

At some point.. past Utah but before California, we flew over this snowy wonderland...

I have no idea where we were but it sure was pretty to see!!! 

And then finally, with 30 minutes to spare, I ended up in California... See...

 

Where there were more mountains *smile*  This is a view from one of the windows in the hotel.  Speaking of Hotel... this is the first place I have EVER been that had my room de-feathered before arrival... I am so very impressed!!   And let me tell you..  I have gotten some serious good sleep in this non-feathered bed!! 

Wowsers... Something in the California Air apparently.  Either that, or just pure exhaustion which is more likely.

The first night, food was not so much Vegan..the hotel lobby store was already closed, and I was just hungry and not a happy camper.....but each meal after that, our wonderful catering team provided me with the best of Veggie goodness. 

This salad had Jicama and Mango in it... I was SHOCKED... it was sooo tasty!  I've never had Jicama anywhere outside of my own kitchen..  Yum!

There were more meals, Today was Asian themed, and pasta for dinner... I just didn't get the pics..

One morning they offered Vegetarian Croissant Sandwiches next to the Meaty ones.. Which I was very impressed with.  They even had a cute little sign.. I didn't eat them because of the cheese.  But when I checked back, all the Veggie ones were gone, and the Meaty ones were plentiful...

Also the trays of fruit were being devoured instead of the baked goods.  That was Wonderful to see.

At one meal, I had the privilege of sitting next to a Vegetarian Mom.. I'm finally not the only in the company!  Woohoo!!!  We talked for quite a while..

The best food of my Whole trip though, has got to be this Donut... I found a Vegan Donut.. I've never had a Vegan Donut before!!!

Oh MY YUM!!!  It is very good that I don't live near by!!

I saw some really funky buildings:

Some fancy Public Restrooms... Yes... I've reached a new low when I'm taking pictures of a toilet sign in a park... but really... This takes Porta-Potty to a whole new level..

And after walking about 20+ blocks in search of a decent Veg Restaurant to no avail, I came across this Juicy Goodness! 

Carrot and Celery juice is all you'll find in this cup, because they were out of beets, didn't juice apples, had no lettuce, wheat grass, or..... OH the list goes on... It was an interesting place...

I did however get Carrot and Celery Juice... Yes combined... which seemed to be a little difficult for the Juice man behind the counter to grasp.. BUT what else is new.. I have odd requests apparently.

Soooo at the end of this conference week, I can't complain too much!  The weather turned out to be sunny, the food grand, the meetings productive, the view beautiful and I got out for a walk each day.

Even found a Starbucks (which thought my "weird" water frap was so cool, they added it to their Special of the week).. And found a fun gadget store, so I can bring home goodies to my favorite men.

Tomorrow, I'm supposed to head home... while checking in to my flight online, there was a warning that my flight no longer exists...That can't be good right???

Ohhh, Goodnight... I have a feeling tomorrow may be a long day!

 

 

 

 

California...Here I Am....

I left my house at 5:30 AM...

3 flights, 1 cancelation, 2 delays, 5 screaming kids, 3 time zones, and 14 hours later, we bounced in to California!

With 30 minutes left to get to hotel, checked in and cleaned up for meeting...but I made it, by golly by gosh!

Now it is time for bed!!

Good Night

Destination California... Still...

Made it to Atlanta ..

Granted Atlanta is NOT in California, but I'm trying...

Thankfully I found a very wonderful Acai Smoothie that happily found its way to my stomach.. Although between the walk from Concourse C & A my flight to the West Coast suddenly got delayed.. It was on time.. and then it wasn't.. how does that happen?...

Ah well...Maybe I was walking too slow. Alas, I'm currently in flight to Salt Lake City.. Where the man in front of me has reclined his chair in to my lap.. You would be correct to think that Salt Lake city is NOT in California... but Hey.. its closer then Atlanta...

Maybe I'll get to wave to my Salt Lake family from the air... Love you guys... Hi... Bye....

California, Here I come....maybe?

Supposed to be in Sunny California...or should I say not so sunny California (where im going) by noon pacific...

All my work comrade's flights left on time.... Then there was mine...

CANCELED....with a capital C!!!

2 hrs later, we try this again...only this time, two stops...let's see how far that gets me... Apparently now we try to go south then West.

Stay tuned as the Business Travel Saga of April 2011 unfolds...

And the Trip Ends!

I can say it was GREAT to be home in my own shower and own bed, to see Hubby and the Pup and get some Vita-Mix Goodness:

OH, How I missed thee!!!

... But this trip, both professionally and personally was such a wonderful experience...  Professionally, I had the opportunity to visit Kennedy Space Center, watch a group of people come together and complete many huge tasks.  (even with a little drama, and late nights working, it was all worth it)

Personally....

My Mom and I spent Hours upon Hours chatting and visiting, that we wouldn't have had in any other setting.. The Veg Kid celebrated his birthday at Amusement parks, and with a Decorated hotel room.

<What?  You didn't think we would forget to decorate, did you?>

We also did some fun shopping, lots of good eating, and plenty of lounging... The weather was perfect, the bug population avoided us, I saw much wild life in the WILD... which was awesome... everything from Alligators on the side of the road to Dolphins in the Ocean...I got to do some early morning Sprints (to Starbucks...shhhhh)... 

Outside of a little Vegkid Attitude Drama and a couple work things that went arry... I don't have a single complaint from this trip... no juicy stories, no animal food issues... Just good Hard Work and Wholesome Family time!! 

Here are some final pics...

Universal Adventure:

Oh Popeye, where are you??

One Fish Two Fish....

We did NOT go on these!!!!

Ducks swimming in the pool.... Hey Hey... you forgot your bathing suits...

Excuse me???

Fried Strawberries... YES, I said Fried Strawberries... Enough Said!

Ok, so it wasn't the most beautiful decorating job... but it was late, I didn't have tape, and made it work!

Sweet Dreams little Birthday Boy!!!

Alas we are Home!!!  (been home, just didn't get to post).... Veg went back to school and got his Valentine bag, which he was too excited about.. and he got to do his Walk Around the Sun, which is a Montessori Tradition.... So he is officially 8 now among his peers....

Back to life Back to Reality...... *smile*

Hope all is well, where ever you may be!

 

Our Day at Sea World

Surprise Surprise, I have mixed emotions about places like Sea World and Zoos in general... Circuses and Rodeo's are completely OUT of the question.. but places like Sea World that also HELP those critters in need, makes me have mixed emotions.

They have the Dolphin Nursery, the Manatee Rescue, Whale and Dolphin Rescues, Bird rescues, no lids or straws in park, and veggie food as options at most eating stops... They do lots of good things.. And sometimes I feel they couldn't do the good things, with out the revenue generated from places like Sea World.

Like these Manatees... Such beautiful creatures that get hurt way to much in the wild, thanks to humans.. and when they are hurt, Sea World rehabs them...

Then I think Some of them, like the baby whale we saw, were born there, and they don't know any better.. They don't know of the open ocean....

And then other times, I think... How mean to make them do a show...But how awesome to see their show.

 

But then I see my Kid staring in wonder for the first time ever at a real live WHALE..and who knows what that can do for him as he grows up and decides how to do better for our planet and the animals that reside here.

And then I think, those poor whales in those tanks, they deserve so much more... and then I think... but actually many of those wouldn't be alive if it wasn't for those tanks...

and then.... Oh... Phooey....

And then I just say to myself... "LIGHTEN UP AND HAVE AN AWESOME DAY"..... Give back what I can, Explain to Veg my thoughts, so he understands the world beyond those tanks..and then enjoy..... And then I did!!!

Smile in a clam...

Love on Some Dolphins...

And take a WHOLE lot of Pictures:

If we were going to a place like Sea World, I wanted the  Vegman to stare in to the eye of a dolphin and see all the majesty that is inside... They are mammals just like us and so much to say.  So much to learn from them.. and a Moment he will never forget.

With all their wonder and beauty....

Such a Cutie... I just wanted to squeeze those cheeks!

So, at the end of the day, I can say, I learned a lot about Sea World... I still have mixed motions.. But it is a day that we won't ever forget!

A Valentine Travel Day

What happens when a Kids Birthday, Planned Vacation time, Planned Grandma Visit, all get interrupted by a Business Trip Smack Dab in the middle????

Well... you just change destinations for Birthday, Vacation and Planned Grandma Visit....

Veg, Me and NeeNee are making Florida our Birthday Week Destination... And So Far all has gone very well... Veg and I flew Air Tran for the first time, and had a GREAT Experience!

The people were so nice, they boarded early.. the cabin was cool, and clean, and plenty of space for our huge bags.  Being that my travel Mojo does not usually bring good flight experiences, I have to say, this one was very good!

Upon Landing The Taxi Price is OUTRAGEOUS, And the guy snatched an extra $5 because I didn't realize that he couldn't count until he drove away... Ugh!!  Or should I say, I couldn't count....

The Hotel is nice..  But just a regular room... no fridge or microwave, which is going to make this a very expensive Eating trip... I'm glad I packed a ton of snacks, or we Veggie's would be in a heap of trouble. 

I should Add that each eating spot near by seems to have at least one Veg Entree... I would have liked to see more choices.. but hey, you win some you lose some!

Here was My Lunch:

Very tasty.. those little pitas were filled with a hummus like spread, roasted veggies and raw veggies.

The Beds were FEATHER!  ACK.... I can never get away from the Feather... so we had to call and wait until they de-feathered... but as always, little birdie feathers are lingering on the carpet... Can I say yet again?? WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH FEATHER BEDDING???????????  UGH!!!

BUT, they did have recycle bags, so I'll give them one point for that.....

Alas.. it is going to be a late night tonight, and then a Long day tomorrow... I'll post again when I can though!

Oh Oh OH... PS... Friend A has chosen Veg Entrees two days in a row...Yippeeeeeeeeeeee!!

PSS - Happy Valentines Day!  *smile*

PSSS - We left some Travel treasures for the Hubs at home so he wasn't too lonely, and apparently I hid them well because I had to give about 10 clues for one treasure.. maybe tomorrow's will go better...*wink*

 

A Vegan Meal Story

I sent my friend a phone Picture earlier today, to show her my DELICIOUS Lunch...

You see, normally when I travel for business, the food is not that great... In some cases, the dinners are good depending on where we end up.  But more times then not, there is a Food Story... Something goes wrong, or lobster ends up on my head, or shrimp on my plate, and steak house stories galore...

But for Lunch... When I hear "Boxed Lunch"  I just know that means, I'll probably get some chips that I can eat... MAYBE!

Because not much else in the box will be Vegan...Because of this, I pack food to eat, and find a story for this blog... Well today when I heard "Boxed Lunch" I was not looking forward to it..AT ALL...

But then I came around the corner and saw THIS:

Not only was my Boxed lunch going to be Vegetarian.. but it was VEGAN....  Something Special indeed...

Oooh, I couldn't wait to get back to my seat and see what was inside this HUGE pizza shaped box... What could possibly be THAT big and Vegan??... My mind wandered... My mouth began to water....

And Finally, I opened this box of pure Goodness:

There was SOooo much food, that I packed some up to bring back to my hotel room...

Quinoa Salad, Asparagus and Tomatoes, Fruit  cup, Pecan Pie and a Fruity + Veggie salad...

I couldn't believe my Taste Buds....

All that food for Little Ol' Me!!!! 

But even more exciting was they brought a few extras... so several people gave up the meaty options and took the Veg Friendly stuff instead....

It is always sooo fun when that happens... Since I'm the only FULL Veg in the group, the rest would eat what is available.  But if they bring extra's of my stuff, then others will flock to the Veggie Goodness...

Seeing that twice this week, makes me want to ask our Planner to Always have extras.... Hmmmm?  I should do that!  *smile*

Now, back to my friend.. she is dissapointed that I don't have any food stories.... so I will share my experience with dinner, and the salad situation....

Salad arrives with Cheese... "Can I have one without cheese please?".... Mannnnn did I get a Dagger look from the waitress... and in a very rude tone, I hear from her mouth..

"Did you ask for no cheese when this was ordered?"

Well... No.... I didn't realize it was a Blue Cheese Salad... or I would have.. (not to mention the meals were pre-selected, so I didn't even know I was getting a salad... just FYI).....

So out she comes with a 1/2 size salad and no cheese... It took me about two bites to realize they scraped the top portion "with" the cheese off, and gave me what was left...

The taste of that cheese still lingering in the lettuce... No offense, but I'm not sure how anyone can eat that stuff....

And I'm not talking about just the Vegan reasons... I mean the Taste.... Oh My Yuck!!!

So there to my friend... She got a story... But I'm sad (not really) to let her know, that the nasty salad was followed by a very delicious Veg Pasta...

Today was a GOOD Food Day!!!

Business Travel - All Good this Time

Another Business Trip... you know what that means???  A REVIEW OF THE ARRIVAL... so here it goes!

Check in and ask my usual question about the down feathers...

"Yes, there are feather pillows"  The Fine Gentlemen tells me... and I ask for them to be removed... So he then asks if I would like the blankets removed too... Ummmm, Yes Please.....

Can I tell you.... that for the first time in ALLLLLL of my travels, something amazing happened....

They had my room De-Feathered, before I even made it up with my luggage..... NOW THAT IS SERVICE!!!

I was very impressed!

Next came dinner:

Upon my arrival, there are 5 people hollaring for me.. Apparently I was the recent topic of discussion and there were people on guard over my Veg food as there was only one left and they were saving it for me...Even the Caterer, joined me at the buffet to tell me how glad she was that I made it.

Good news is... people all devoured the Veg choice, and they had to make more...GO VEG!!! Funny enough, I almost didn't make it for dinner, but I am glad that I did... and I'm glad that I was late to the buffet line, so other people had a chance to try some non-animal goodness.

She also brought me Tea, while everyone else only had wine or water......

So far, this trip is going Alright!! 

 

 

Michigan Trip 2010 This and That

Our trip was full of Family, Friends, LOTS of Driving... Lakes, Rivers, Cider Mills, Great Food, Health Food Stores, Arcades, Bowling, Critters, and some silly adventures....It was a wonderful one, with a lot of memories.

I did have to work a little bit, and this was certainly not a "restful" kind of trip as we were going from morning to night.  But it was well worth it.

My young Travel Companion was amazing... At one point we were stopped on the interstate for an hour, and not a single complaint.  We made a lot of pit stops... We had lots of laughs...... He was absolutely amazing... Did I say AMAZING!!!

Hubby can be a very grumpy Travel Companion... So leaving him at home some times really is OK... *smile*  

Now... let me tell you... we did have 2 Challenging moments with my sweet angel towards the end, that showed his other side...And after getting home my sweet angel (saying sarcastically) flicked the not so nice switch again... We had a pretty challenging night....

But my Mom said he is entitled to a bad day... I guess I'll give him that much.   And over all, a few challenging moments vs. a whole week, isn't so bad.

Here are some random pics from our trip...

I LOVE this place.. Actually stopped here twice... goodies for my Mom and for Me to bring home...YUM!

My Inlaws got a new Sun Room since we were there last, and it was so nice to sit in.

We went to an Awesome indoor climbing place called Castaway for the Vegman.. then came back and sat in the sunroom for a long while.  So pretty..

They were not happy we didn't stay longer, but there is a time in every visit, when you know it is time to go....

I've learned over the years, to perfect the amount of time per visit before anyone gets irritable, before traffic gets bad (as the drive is long) and to leave on a good note with a good memory.... Veg's last moment at their house was playing ball in the yard with his Grandpa, and that is a GOOD memory to leave with.

Veg found this crazy Play thing... You go inside A blow up ball that floated on water... He had a Blast, trying to stand, spin and flip...

My Mom and I were thinking of all the fun germies living inside that thing... and what would happen if it sprung a leak... But the Vegman didn't think of any of that.  He just wanted to have fun...

They also had a bounce house obstacle course thing...So he stayed busy for a while. 

PS - All of this was in the MALL... how cool is that?

 

We went to Several Cider Mills... I took this pick of the pretty tree colors and beautiful sky on our way to the Northville Cider Mill:

At Blake's Farm, we found this guy:

We got to watch the Cider being made and bottled:

We also climbed to the top of a Straw Mountain, Visited with Lamas, Ponies and Goats, finished several rubber duck races, and enjoyed the horse swings....

I also purchased LOTS OF THESE... along with the donuts and Cider...

On top of all that fun... if there could be anymore???  My friend and I had our solo (no kids) day, and we also were able to meet for dinner one night with out kids... Then had dinner another night WITH kids, and Bowling with kids another night....

Did I tell you we were going from MORNING till Night??  *smile*  Let me tell you again...

WE WERE Always on the go... But oh so fun and lots of new places this trip... I think that was the coolest part....Not sure we will be able to beat this one....

Most Veggies on a Pizza EVER!

During our long day of shopping, my Friend and I stopped in to Tomato Brothers for lunch... It is an Italian place in Howell Michigan...

We split a Vegetarian Pizza... her 1/2 with cheese, mine with out....  OH MY YUM!!!  This pizza had more veggies then I've ever seen on a pizza...And well worth every bit of looking for jeans... just to be near this place of Pizza Goodness...

My first slice:

Sorry I can't find a website for them... but it is not too far from the Tanger Outlets  If your ever in the mood to shop...  *smile*

 

Found Lake Huron

You may recall, the Vegman got a Great Lake's book for his birthday last year.   And he was determined to find a Great Lake...

In April, I took him to Lake Eerie and thought we were done... he saw Great lake.. Case Closed...Right... NOPE!  He wants to see ALL the Great Lakes...

So on this trip we went searching for Lake Huron... I was actually proud of my self thinking he would see two Great Lakes in one trip as we were passing Lake St. Claire.   Until Veg proudly told ME that Lake St. Claire was NOT a Great Lake.... Well fine then!!

Of course HE was right, and I looked like a Goof, but what else is new??? Onward to Huron... 

I told my Mom that we would drive toward the water, I had no idea what our final destination would be... I asked if she was up for an adventure day.  And she was!

So the three of us drove and drove... stopped at a rest area to see the map and make sure we were headed in the right direction... we kept an eye on Garmin that was pointing us toward the big blue mass on its screen..

We found several parks.. several museum ships... the farmer's market...  Squirrels that wanted to make friends and This Edison Rock...:

We saw a lighthouse in the distance, the Blue Water Bridge, and Veg got to see Canada across the water.. (he thought that was pretty cool)...

And then Alas.... The lake....... Vavoom.... There it was.. Beach and everything... Soooo Pretty.

I did not expect to see the water so clean, and blue/green and the beach so clean and rocks of plenty... Veg got to see that even though it looked like an ocean, that it was not... we talked about the differences, and he had the best time. 

And he couldn't stay out of the water.  Poor kid got soaked and cold... and didn't care...

The weather was PERFECT... my Mom enjoyed the sunshine and the beach.  I'm pretty sure we could have left her there for a month and found her in the same spot when we returned... she didn't want to leave.

Sometimes you just have to drive, and see where your adventure takes you... While we knew we wanted to see the lake, we didn't know how to get exactly there or where to stop/park/public access etc.  And didn't care...

Had I mapped it out before hand, we would have gone straight to our destination.  By going the route we did, we were able to do and see so much more.  Each stop with its own surprise....

Such a great day that was!!

As for the other Great Lakes... I told Veg, I would help him get to Lake Michigan while he is still a kid.  But the other two - he is on his own to find, once he's an adult...  *smile*