Days 1,2 & 3 GETTING TO MARSEILLE, FRANCE

Sister and I flew to Marseille on the new 380, which had only been flying a couple of weeks before we flew. Much of our planning is already described on her blog, so I will refer you to her blog avelingsardineclass.blogspot.com/2011_07_01_archive.html  or for more on this day see, http://travelingsardineclass.blogspot.com/2011/07/close-plays-on-opening-day.html     for full detail. However, she did not include pictures of the A380,

nor of us landing in CDG airport in Paris. This is the picture for which I had my hand slapped (not literally) by the flight attendant. Who knew that using a camera was an electronic device, for which one is not supposed to use during landing? Takeoff and landing is shown upon a screen at the front of each cabin, from a camera on the plane's tail. It is pretty awesome.

Our impression of the A380 (we were in the upper cabin), is that is is QUIET and just seemed to float up on takeoff. For such a big plane, it was surprising. Naturally there is no extra leg space nor do the seats seem wider, although I think they are by 1 inch or so.

We stayed in Sabine's  B&B in Marseille, which was located downtown, behind a door which did not appear to contain several houses. Amazingly quiet considering that a busy street was not far away.


Sister at door to Sabines

Upon our arrival, the other early arrivees were ready for dinner, so we quickly changed our clothes and walked to a lebanese restaurant where we had a fine dinner with the new friends.

The next morning after breakfast,the other early arrivees took off for St. Cecile des Vignes, but we stayed behind with Beth to pick up Andrea that evening.

As sister as frequently taken "the little tourist trains" in visiting towns, we decided to head for the Marseille port to catch the little train.

While standing in line, all of a sudden, I turned around, and saw my wallet on the ground with sister's foot on it. A gypsy lady had pickpocketed me, and fortunately dropped my oversized wallet on the ground, a sister saw her do it. The woman had such gaul, that she continued to beg for money, even after having been caught stealing. After that incident, no more wallet and no more money in the purse.. We enjoyed the little train tour, had lunch at a great fish place, picked up Andrea and headed off to St. Cecile in time for a late dinner.



Early arrivees



PROVENCE HERE WE COME

Today is the day Lee and I  head off for our wonderful trip to Provence. Air France Maintenance is on strike, so we are already starting off 2 hours late with a later flight from Paris to Marseille. What to do for lunch? I didn't plan it at home, as we were to be off to the airport. So perhaps it will be Wendy's.
In checking baggage "restrictions", Brussels air only allows 6 KG for carry on in "my class". So it will take some creativity in packing to have the 26K in the suitcase and only 6 KG for carry one. My clothes may be hiding the heavy things- jacket pockets with plugs/converters, etc.
Now that I am retired, I actually had my suitcase packed on Sunday. What a difference :)
I will attempt to post my travels and pictures as I go along

Retired at Last and Ready for the Next Trip

On May 20, 2011, retirement finally swept over me, and I find myself in a state of "unknown". People ask how I "feel" and I really can't explain what/how I feel. It is nice not having to get up in the morning, wonderful to fall asleep at 3PM instead of forcing myself to stay awake at work, when I really want to sleep. And now, a week later, I almost feel rested. I've been too busy to be "lonely", and I keep up with friends on Facebook and email. My new role is Project Coordinator- Leisure, as we go from one "leisure" (or not) project to another.
This weekend's Leisure Project is the Sonoma Historic Races- three days in the wine country- unfortunately rain is predicted.
I will bring photos of the fun, and perhaps wet, weekend. Then soon off to Provence.

Wedding Planning

On February 14, our son Brett proposed to his love, Rebecca/Becky and we are all so happy and excited.

They want to have their wedding on August 27, or some weekend in September, and possibly have it in our garden.

As they live in Arizona, it is difficult for them to plan. So this project manager (me) is now started in action.  I met with friend Holly, who is very organized and has done 2 weddings at home over the past two years. "Be sure to figure out the bathrooms for the guests", is her first warning.  The boys/girls porta potties they hired were $950.  And ministers cost $1500- guess they have to make their living this way. I sent friend Terry off to the internet to become a "minister". But I also learned about using Costco for flowers (they contract to growers/florists at a very cut rate).  I hit up friends Linda, Laura and Lauma to help, and ordered budget wedding books on Amazon.com. I am also checking out some other venues in case the guest list becomes higher than expected.  

Now, this project isn't the only one I am doing, so I really must get organized AND RETIRE. May 20th is my final date, and I may move it up as there is so much to do.

So Much For Morgans Keeping You Together

Yesterday there was a message on the answering machine from Portland Morgan female friend, who NEVER has called me. I called back to ask what was wrong. Well nothing was wrong, but Portland male friend had left her and asked for a divorce. Surprised, yes, but totally understanding. She has endured many years of Portland male, possibly for the sake of the family. I love them both, and wish them well.

New Floor- Day 1

The infamous "dry" floors are being put into place at Mountain House with husband as project manager.

This is a day's work, being  less than 1/2 the living room. There was, of course, the carpet tear out and carpet tack tear out which takes some time as well. I don't think I will see the husband by this Friday' Chinese Dinner.
We almost  postponed my work "go live" for tomorrow night, as there was a family emergency for a key team member. I was forced to "undo" the teams decision to cancel, making said family emergency team member working tomorrow through the night. I was told that the family member insisted on going ahead, but I am not happy. Usually we are a family friendly place at JMH, so as Project Manager, I am saddened that someone must work, when, in reality waiting a week doesn't really matter.
After working out my schedule for the year, I have again postponed my retirement to May 20, 2011. That will make 25 years at JMH, and I do intend on finishing the projects I am working on by then. Resources to assist are scarce to non-available making progress slow. A beautiful new hospital wing is being opened,   www.johnmuirhealth.com/index.php/jmmdhs_walnut_creek_opening.html , which is taking many of my resources to be certain they are equipped with the software needed/configured for this new tower. Long Tower is because the Long's of Long's Drugs gave much money toward it.