That Place I like

Today's Blog Post is dedicated to my dog Aura, who passed away from a Brain Disease today at the young age of 3 years old. Those who have pets can understand the impact on ones life a pet makes. They become part of your family, your best friend.

From the moment I got Aura, she held a special place in my heart. Originally I had got her for my dad to help him deal with the loss of my grandmother. I drove over 2 hours each way to get Aura from a small town north of Kitchener. As soon as I put her in my arms, I knew I found my best friend. I brought her home and my dad fell in love with her as well. We decided to call her Aura because of her good "Aura" about her and energy. Unfortunately my dad passed away 2 weeks later. So here it was, just Aura and I...all we had was each other.

Through all the rough times she was always there for me, and I for her. Times when I would come home upset, or crying she would always comfort me and help me get through it. We also shared so many good memories, going to Woofstock, play dates with other dogs, movie nights, cottage getaways together, car rides, play times... anywhere I could bring her I would. When she started to get sick end of September, it just broke my heart. I slowly saw this wonderful spirit deteriorate but despite it all still kept her good spirit and had a smile on her face. Here I was in the position that she needed me and knew without a doubt I would do everything I could to help her, through MRIs, extensive testing and everything I wanted to be there for her just like she was there for me. And while I sat at home crying about how much she had to go through and how heartbreaking it was, she still managed to get up and try to lick the tears off my face.

When she had a seizure at home a couple days ago was horrible seeing her go through that especially since she was doing so well. I rushed her to the hospital where she could get the care she needed. One of the last memories I have with her was seeing her in emergency on IV. Once she saw me she managed to get up enough strength to lift her head and give me a kiss on the face, I gave her a kiss too and she passed out again. I will always remember that moment with her forever. Then comes today... when I was told she could come home this morning but needed a bit of TLC I was so happy. Couldn’t wait to bring her home. However just when I got to the hospital she had another seizure, one she was unable to recover from. Unfortunately the brain disease she was suffering from had taken its toll. So many emotions surround me as I think about the wonderful dog and friend she will always be to me and hoping that wherever she is in heaven that shes no longer in pain, running around playing frisbee and enjoying herself, knowing I will always be thinking of her and how she touched my life.

I also want to send a special thank you to those that have supported both Aura and I through this illness: Toronto Emergency Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Huska, Dr. Cutler, My work and all our friends (both 2 legged and 4 legged). Your support and prayers got us though this very difficult time.

Port Douglas is a beautiful place. A place one would absolutely fall in love with. Beaches, boutiques, great people. What more can you ask for?

When my friend and I visited, it took a couple hours to get our surroundings in check. Then again weren't in any rush. The beach and the scenery was absolutely beautiful. White sands, beautiful hills... was surreal.

Because we were there in January (stinger season) they had signs saying to watch for stingers and crocodiles...what?? Ok this wasn't in the tour guide. caution signs everywhere and even vinegar stations just in case. With that in mind, decided to obey by the rules on this one.

Our accomodations were a short walk to the beach and about a 10 min walk to the strip. One thing we found is that most of the accomodations were close to everything and fairly nice. There were also a lot of apartments to rent and groceries in town which was great for saving money on eating out all the time.

If you like boutique shopping, you would love the shops. Tons of great places to pick up clothes or souvenirs to bring home, and not too expensive.

There are also a few bars and restaurants worth checking out, they close a bit early during the week but should still give you time to go out and grab a bite and a drink.

On Saturdays there was a bar having toad races. If someone who of mentioned it to me I would of thought they were joking, but we went to check it out and it was actually quite entertaining and after a few drinks everyone gets right into it.

Sunday's they have a market, would highly recommend checking it out. Was huge! And tons of cool stuff from local vendors. The only thing I would caution is if you a travelling from another country make sure what you get you can bring back. There's tos of plantlife and food but some of that stuff you can't bring home.

Had a wonderful time in Port Douglas and if you are in Queensland, Australia you should definitely add it to the itinary.

So I have to admit, this was my first Caribana...ever! and please excuse me for saying Caribana as opposed to Scotia Bank Caribbean Carnival as that is all I have ever known.

My friend asked me to play Mas this year. For those who don't know, thats where you dance for a Mas Camp in the actual parade and get the chance to dress up in these elaborate, beautiful costumes. We were part of the Louis Saldenah Mas Camp... What an AMAZING time!!

I spent a few days before picking up my costume, getting all the accessories... the anticipation for the big day. Once I got there, the rush was unbelievable! Thousands of people dressed up, great vibe. Although it was about 11am by the time we got started, I definitely needed a drink! I probably wasn't the only one. I wasn't use to being dressed up (or underdressed) in front of so many people, but once I got out there my insecurities just disappeared.

The music, the vibe, the people...the craziness when we were at the stage and that nice feeling when your dancing near the trucks playing soca music and your body just wines. Hard to explain your first Caribana mas experience without the words overwhelming and awesome.

Once it was all over and I got home... after 8 hours in the sun dancing (and 36C plus heat) I was tired, sore but ready to do it again next year. Definitely a 9/10 day (1 point off for forgetting to put sunscreen on part of my back and getting burnt...ouch!)

It's been awhile since I last blogged...but i'm still here! Life has a way of keeping one busy sometimes. It's been a super busy summer and I have LOTS to write about as I sit down and reflect on everything that's been going on here in Toronto...and abroad. Lots of reviews, stories, opinions, the works. However even though I can say that I have done a lot in the last couple months, theres something about August that makes me feel that summer is wrapping up soon... I don't know if its the thought that the next long weekend will be Labour Day or that Dollarama now has Halloween decorations. Either way, only a month left until september and it's time to get "out and about" and enjoy. Have fun everyone!

The winter blues...its February, it's cold, dark by 6pm and you are in a down mood. If that sounds like you, you're not alone. Lately I have been feeling unmotivated and been trying to think of ways to get out of it. So came up with a couple ways to keep busy and turnaround my mood so as not to fall victim to the winter blues.

Here are a few thought starters, but would like this to be an expanding list so please add your thoughts and ideas on how you try and cope with the winter blues.

1. Expand your mind
Take a course or class in something that interests you. Having a regular commitment keeps you out and about and off the couch.

2. Take a vacation, mini or major.
Whether its a weekend in Niagara or a week in Cuba, get away for a change of scenary.

3. Get up and do something...around the house!
If you have been meaning to paint that room or check something off your reno to do list, get it done. nothing like the sense of accomplishment from completing tasks.

4. Have some friends over.
Have a game or movie at your house. serve some appetizers or do a potluck.

How do you get through the winter? Share your ideas and lets get through this winter in a good mood.

January 16, 2012
Day 10

So after taking a break for a few days, I was ready to try Scuba diving again. When I first got to Sydney, I went for my first open water dive and was having a lot of troubles with my ears. I think it must of had something to do with the pressure from the plane and then the pressure underwater. I just got off a plane and then within a couple hours, right into dive training. Although they had said it was ok to have it so close together, my ears felt another way. I still had trouble with my ears the day after. The ears, as well as the long wait and weather conditions made my first experience not the greatest. However rather then give up, I decided to give it another shot...and here I am.

This experience proved to be a lot better. The weather was nice, the water calm and I had the pleasure of one-on-one training with a dive master...very cool and a vast improvement from my first day.

The training went well. The first very smooth, the second ok and then on the third I think I was getting too much water and pressure on my ears and was ready to call it a day. Was a bit unfortunate because I was doing so well at all the skills and everything, was just having trouble with equalization on my ears. However, at the end of it all... I am now a Certified PADI Scuba Diver. Course complete and i'm ready for the Great Barrier Reef...

January 15, 2012
Day 8 - Longrains in Sydney

After yesterday, today was going to be a chillaxing day. Which consisted of a bit of shopping and a bit of sightseeing. Today the highlight for me would definitely be dinner. We dressed up and went for dinner at this place called Longrains. I have to say the food was incredible.

It was a fancy Thai fusion and since I'm not much of a foodie (I just eat the food not critic it) the only way I can explain it is that it was extremely flavorful and delicious. Our starter was a mint leaf with some veggies and suchin it,which apparently opened up the palette. So good! And then for the food itself... Wow! We ordered a dish that had egg net, beansproats, and shrimp...as well as a curry dish. Was so delicious and flavourful it's hard to explain unless you taste it. A bit pricey, but we would definitely recommend it.

http://longrain.com/

January 14, 2012
Day 7 - Hunter Valley, Australia

So today we woke up early to go on a hunter valley wine tour. Had received numerous recommendations to check it out and definitely had to add it to itinerary. Although we had to wake up early, it was definitely worth it. The wine tour we went on took us to several places, and the servings were VERY generous. All the wineries we visited were great and the hosts very knowledgeable. We visited several wineries and the view and wine was absolutely magnificent. Took tons of pictures and enjoyed several glasses of wine... Think I learned a thing or two about wine as well. Imagine that! My friend and I bought a few bottles to take home for enjoyment which will hopefully tie us over for the remaining of the trip. At the end of the excursion, we also got to go for cheese and chocolate tasting. A great way to end a beautiful day!

Once I got home, I was exhausted! I think a day of sun and wine really tires one out. Although the thought of getting in my yoga pants and curling up on the couch sounded appealing, I knew I had to get up and enjoy a Saturday night in Sydney. We had a blast checking out some of the local pubs and clubs, and once we got home I can safely say I was done for the night.

This Valentines Day, my boyfriend and I along with some friends headed out to Niagara Falls for a romantic night on the day of love and romance. We had got a deal on a room/dinner package so thought it would be a great idea and an excuse to get away for the night.

We had a great night with great company, a wonderful dinner at the Keg overlooking the falls, a falls view hotel room... very nice! However, I was a bit disappointed with the lack of things going on in Niagara Falls on Valentines Day. Niagara is often known as a romantic place for couples, however on a day that is "supposed" to be one of the most romantic ones of the year, there really wasn't much going on there. The falls weren't lit up (would of been great to light them up red), none of the nightclubs were open (I called in advance and they said they wouldnt be open). We ended up having a great night together, was just a bit surprised the city doesnt take advantage of the day, especailly when all the hotels were marketing and giving deals. Theres so many things they could of done to take advantage of the day (chocolate workshops, the falls lit up, theme night at the nightclubs/bars, etc) Just feels like a missed opportunity. We still had a wonderful time regardless and will be back soon enough... maybe just on another day :-)

January 13, 2012
Day 6 - Bondi Beach... and UGG Hunt

So today I was feeling a bit rough, I guess that's what a few drinks and a night of dancing can do to you. My plan today... no plan. We woke up and decided to play it by ear. As we slowly got ourselves together and organized and adding some food into the equation, thought it would be a perfect day for shopping and the beach.

We first headed down to the CBD (Central Business District) which was a short walk from my friend's place in Surrey Hills. As we browsed through the stores, I was on a mission... UGGS. Must get UGGS. The selection of UGGS was crazy! Where to start? How to find the perfect style I want? How much to spend? I was too tired to make such decisions, so did a bit of window shopping and then off to the beach.

We headed on the bus to Bondi Beach and as soon as I saw the beach, I felt rejuvenated. I couldn't wait to jump in the water and lay on the sand. The water was beautiful, and the beach was packed. One side for swimmers, the other for surfers. When I saw the people surfing, I thought "that would be awesome to try". However, maybe not today. and maybe when I get a bit of practice. Those waves were pretty crazy. The water was so nice I can't even describe how good it felt. After a swim, and laying on the beach it's crazy how quickly time flies. About 5 hours later and I was super tanned and totally relaxed. I think everyone needs a good beach day every so often.

Later that night we were supposed to meet friends at Opera Bar. Unfortunately we took so long at the beach and were so relaxed by the time we got there they left. However, I have to admit that the Opera House looks beautiful at night.

January 12, 2012
Day 5 - Taronga Zoo and a night out in Sydney

Woke up today and my ears were still bothering me from the day before. I had hesitations about diving the same day I landed but went ahead after I was reassured by the dive shop I could. Unfortunately was a bit too much for the ears and the following day my ears were feeling very uncomfortable. Thinking about the safety of my ears, I had to cancel the full day of diving (which was a bit disappointing), but decided to head to Taronga Zoo.

After a bit of figuring out and exploring, I took the ferry over to the zoo from Darling Harbour. The ferry ride was great and you get to see so much of the harbour. Sydney has a spectacular harbour and have to say I have never seen anything like it. For $50 with Captain Cook Cruises I got a ferry ticket and admission to Taronga Zoo. I could of went without the attitude from the sales woman (who didn't seem very happy to be working), but with that aside it was a very nice ferry ride. I was able to explore the harbour and learn a thing or two about the islands.

The zoo was great. A lot of walking and definitely bring a map. I got to have a "koala encounter" which was cool but not quite worth the money. Basically you get to meet a koala and take pictures...the only thing is it cost $20 and apparently it's against the law in New South Wales to touch them so you just stand beside it. Plus it was sleeping! $20 to get a picture taken and doesn't even have to be up... I think he's got it pretty good!

All in all though the zoo was a good experience. I saw so many animals including going into a pen with wallabies. Such a different experience from going to the zoo in Toronto where everything is in cages. Whereas here you can get a bit closer to the animals.

Once my friend got off work we headed to a BBQ at one of her coworkers house. It was nice getting to hangout with some Australians over some food and a couple drinks. After eating we played board games over some drinks, then my friend and I headed out for a night on the town and what a night it was! We headed out to a couple local night spots for drinks and dancing. Was hard to find a good place at first as everything was a bit scattered around... and it was a Thursday night. However, ended up being an awesome unexpectednight out with dinner and dancing! Although I couldn't help but compare the nightlife scene to that of Toronto and would have to say (without being biases) that the Toronto scene rocks. A lot more dancers and open a lot later... So I tried to represent for Toronto.

January 10, 2012/ January 11, 2012

So it's day 4... Well I think it's day 4, with all the changes in time I don't even know what time it is anymore.

I'm in Sydney and can't believe I'm finally here. I don't think it's actually kicked in yet. So where to begin.... The flight was comfortable but long. This was by far the longest flight I've been on, plus the largest plane - an Airbus A380. A pretty cool plane I have to admit. I have to give Quantas credit because they really tried to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Blankets, pillows and headphones to start, not to mention the all the food and drinks. Was great! I was so impressed with the customer service and care I received from the attendants on that flight. Was definitely the best airline experience to date. I tried to nap on the plane and was able to get about 8 hours on and off of sleep in. It's pretty hard to sleep when your on a plane and in your head have the anticipation of the trip to come. Not to mention, I think Im all caught up on movies for awhile. Once I landed, then it kicked in...im not in North America anymore. The heat that blasted me as I left the airport was a far cry from the cold winter jacket I was use to back home.

When I arrived to my friends house, I was so happy to see her. It has been almost a year since she moved here and talking via email and Skype just isn't the same. After some catching up and orienting myself, she headed off to work and I to scuba diving training. With 4 open waters to go until PADI certification I was eager to get it started.

Now I'm not going to lie, exploring Sydney on my own only a couple hours into the trip was a bit intimidating and although I did get a bit lost, I made it.

So my first open water experience in Sydney didn't go as well as expected. Once I got there, they told me they were running a bit late and it would be a 2 hour wait (ended up being more like a 3 hour wait). But with that aside, it was the dive itself which wasn't exactly what I was expecting. Climbing down rocks with all my scuba equipment on a windy day, with poor visibity, wasnt exactly what I was looking forward to, but I still went along with it. Once it was over I was glad to get home. As I nursed sore ears as a result of the plane and diving, and a bit of jet lag I looked forward to catching up with my friend over a couple glasses of wine.

Day 3
Jan 9, 2012

So my last day in California and it was a lazy day. Spent the day chillin around the house on the Internet and checking out the ranch.

My aunt and uncle have a beautiful ranch in the hills with tons of animals. I explored a bit and decided to meet the "locals". The animals were all very curious about me, who I was, and came up to greet me. There were some horses including some wild stallions, llamas, goats, chickens...you get the picture. I really took a liking to "Wildfire", a dark brown and black horse who was very friendly and curious. She came up so I could pet her. I found out later she was a wild horse who had a lot of training. Couldn't tell from her gentle personality.

I then met the llamas. There was one in particular who wanted to follow my ever moment and was very lovable. She gave me a little kiss on my hand as did the goats. Just loved the animals and their gentle personalities. You could tell that my aunt and uncle absolutely love them and give them tons of TLC.

Later that afternoon, my aunt and I headed for shopping at Ross. Let me tell you that I definitely found a lot of stuff I liked... Let the shopping begin!

Then after the shopping, comes the finale. The reality that my time in California is coming to an end and I must prepare for my next journey... to Australia! My aunt and uncle drove me to the airport and as I bid them farewell and walked into LAX I came to the realization, this is it. The next part of this journey I must do on my own and a feeling of loneliness came over me. LAX is such a big place and I'm a needle in a hay stack.

So now here I sit in a airport lounge with a glass of wine waiting for the next leg of my adventure to begin....am I ready? Let's find out...

So the time has finally come to start the next leg of our journey. It's my last day in Sydney and in the evening will be Cairns bound.

During the day, we spent time packing up and took a tour of the Opera House.
Was really interesting hearing the history of such an iconic building and taking tons of pictures. I never realized that the Opera House design stemmed from a Design Competition and then later into an iconic structure.

If you are interested, I found this page that explains the history of the Opera house: http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/about/house_history_landing.aspx

I was fascinated with the architecture and how even the slightest details were considered. From the shape of the windows, to the tiles themselves (which reflect light in just a way that it doesnt get too hot).

The rooms themselves are phenomenal and are considerate of the acoustics of the operas and performances that take place. I was very impressed with how all these details were considered to make the Opera House a world renowned architectural structure and sought after venue for performances.

We did the tour and if you are interested in seeing the inside of the Opera House and what its all about, I recommend you checking it out.

After a memory card full of photos and a couple hours, we were ready to head back to my friends house to get ready for our next journey to head to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef!

The last day of my stretch in Sydney is quickly approaching. It's weird how it snuck up so fast. We decided to spend the day over in Manly and take the ferry across. You can grab the ferry from Circular Quay over to Manly and its not too expensive at all (it was under $8). The ferry runs pretty regularly, which was great because we were really looking forward to heading over.

Down at the Sydney Harbour, there are tons of different places to see and visit. It really is a spectacular harbour. On the way to Manly, we got a beautiful view of the Harbour and went on a few stops along the way.

Once we got to Manly, I was definitely impressed. Was such a nice place and really had that laid back, beach feel. We checked out the shops, and there were tons of nice things to get I dont think we could get enough of it... and good deals too! I got a pair of shoes for $20 so I was happy. The beach is beautiful! Wasn't as packed as Bondi, which I really liked (although Bondi is beautiful as well), but just felt a bit more relaxed. After enjoying the beach, we headed to the beachfront restaurants and cafes for a drink and a bite to eat. There were so many nice places we just loved it, and the view was magnificant. Definitely one of the highlights of the week.

Officially my first full day of vacation. We woke up early for a van cruise. My uncle is really onto cars and does a lot of customized work on vans and cars. They look absolutely fantastic . The cruise started around 730am where we met up with a few cars from Wheels of Confusion and drove through the Palos Verdes Peninsula on our way to Rotondo Beach.

We took the most beautiful scenic tour around the coast and by the time we got to the end of the road, we were at the most beautiful lookout overlooking the ocean. The vans all opened their back trunks and 70s rock could be heard from the stereos. I loved it!

There's even a video of it at: http://vimeo.com/35062065

After the cruise was done and the sun setting, we head back to the ranch for some down time. Was nice sitting down with my aunt and uncle having a glass of wine in my pjs. Made me feel at home.

So here I sit at the airport waiting for my flight. Been an interesting start to the trip so far. My flights been delayed an hour so far so here I sit in the bar killing time with a Rickards red (actually not a bad way to kill time now that I think if it lol)

My boyfriend dropped me off at the airport and it's weird because I was fine until we got to the airport and I saw all the signs for the terminals and I realized wow this is really happening! As he dropped me off and we said our goodbyes, I started to get sentimental. I kissed him good bye and he reassured me that I was going to have an amazing time. We said I love you and as I walked away I couldn't help but keep looking back to see his car, which stayed for a bit before it drove away. It is at that point I realized this is really happening.

As I walk towards the Air Canada check-in I'm greeted by a lineup of hundreds of people all waiting to check luggage... A far cry from the somewhat romantic departure I just experienced. I waited in line behind the hundreds of people before me and then the weirdest thing happened. A guy from Air Canada comes up and says "where you going" I respond Los Angeles. He asked me if I had my boarding pass and I did, then he's like come with me... For a second I thought oh oh, I haven't even started this trip don't tell me I'm in trouble already. He takes me to another counter to the front of the line! Couldn't believe it.

So I'm all checked in, and now comes the fun part...customs..yay! (I'm being sarcastic by the way). So here I go ready to line up for another one and I line up behind this pretty girl my age who strikes up a conversation with me. We ended up chatting for about 45 mins needless to say the line up felt a lot shorter with someone to talk to. Then my turn comes up. Now is it just me or does customs ask very random questions? What do I do? Where am I going? When do I go back to work? Oh and my favorite "did you bring gifts for your family? When I answered no he looked at me like I was some kind of jerk and sent me along my way...

So here I sit still killing time with my iPad and a beer...not bad.

Today I embark on a new adventure... I start my travels to Australia! This is just the first in several daily entries I will write on my travels. I've never been to Australia before so i'm excited about facing the unknown and going on a bit of an adventure, writing about the experience along the way.

It's funny because before you go on a vacation, especially one for an extended period of time, there is so much preparation. It becomes a bit daunting and stressful at times, but as they say...keep your eyes on the prize. As I sit here, pretty much all packed waiting for my flight I think about how much I will miss the ones close to me... and my dog. However look forward to bringing back pictures and stories, and in the process finding myself. I think often you get so caught up in life, you need to take a break every once and awhile and figure out the things that are important. I'm hoping this trip will give me what I need to rejuvenate myself and my thinking.

Now, off to finishing my packing...first stop along the way? Los Angeles for a couple days.

Write to you soon!

That Place I like

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Christine Worrall

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