I had an absolutely great time in Calgary. I forgot where I left off the last blog post... Tuesday we went to her Dad's place to have some of her mom's lasagna (which was damn good), and then Wednesday we went to the mall to get some Christmas shopping done. Then Thursday, she took me to Zoolights... basically the Calgary zoo turns into a big area that is filled with Christmas lights. It was awesome, such a cool idea.. I have pictures.. once I get my pictures on the computer I should go back and update most of these blogs posts and make them a bit more interesting to be read.
Friday, Linds got some great news from work.. She's now 100% in charge of social media for her work.. So proud of her. She told me that if she does well and things work out the way they should, that they may get her to take care of the social media for the sister store as well.. and then who knows where she can go from there. I know how dedicated she is going to be with this. There's no reason why she wouldn't do an amazing job. This is something that she's been wanting to do for a long time. Just shows that all the hard work and dedication you put into something, does pay off in the end... even if you feel it goes unnoticed at times. They couldn't have picked a better person for the job. I'm so incredibly proud of her. I bought her two dozen roses and vitamin C as a "Congratulations" present (Yes, we have a somewhat unique relationship.. :P). Then I took her for some sushi near by. Was a very nice, relaxing last day I was there.
It was strange.. Usually when I'm there I leave on the Sunday evening.. but obviously given that it was Christmas on the Saturday, I had to head home early.. so it was strange to leave on the same day she gets her long weekend.
Oh well, she's here in.. well.. she lands here in 48 hours. I'm excited. She gets to meet the parents, probably my moms parents... Get to spend new years with her. Despite it being a short time together, I'm going to make the most of it and make sure she has a great time :) I know how difficult it is for her to get time off to come here, so when she's here, I want to make sure she's never disappointed or bored.
Christmas itself was good. Nothing new or exciting compared to other years. Dad's mom came over to our house instead of us going out there (due to the fact she just moved to Maple Ridge). Mom's mom isn't doing too well :( Her breathing is getting really bad and she's losing a lot of weight.. I think she's at 94 pounds now? Not good, you can tell...
Christmas haul this year.. .mostly money and gift certificates to put towards getting a loveseat and closet. Got a mattrress topper so my bed is that much more comfortable.. some dress shirts.. that's about it. But I never really asked for much to begin with. I have most things that I "need" and "want".
Been a pretty low key week. Just been working on tidying up downstairs for when Lindsey arrives. I think I have everything pretty much ready. Just have to tidy up a few more things.. it will be done by tomorrow.
This may very well be my last post for 2011. Hope everyone (even though no one really reads this!) had an awesome year and is well prepared for the new year. Set your goals and stick to them. Nothing is impossible. Just give it your all, don't give up and put your head and heart into it and you can accomplish/overcome anything. You're your own worst enemy.
I like this blog idea.. :)
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Final Trip to Calgary for 2011
Well, as stated in my last blog post, I flew from Tokyo, to Vancouver, to Calgary. Landed in Calgary at 3:20 after I don't even know how many hours of flying/sitting in a lounge. I've tried calculating it all, but it's confusing taking into account the time changes and everything. I think it was something like 13 hours in the air, 6 hours in lounges?
Anyway. I got picked up by Lindsey's roommate since Linds was at work till 4:30. First time meeting her, despite having her on facebook and chatting with her for a couple months. Cool girl, easy going and all that :)
Waiting for Lindsey to come home from work felt like forever.. like time was standing still. I think it was around 3 weeks that we had been apart and obviously my trip to Japan made for a much more limited time for talking with each other. Was so happy when she walked in that door. I wanted to run and just wrap my arms around her and swing her around.. but seeing as though Liz was there, I didn't want to make much of a scene.
Friday was pretty low key, just a nice, relaxing night. Lindsey had a busy job of keeping me awake so I didn't pass out at 7pm and wake up at 3am. She actually did a damn good job, I think we finally went to bed at like.. 12:30am? lol
Sat morning she had a work meeting so she was up early, I went back to bed and passed out, woke up to her bringing me Tim Hortons in bed. Just relaxed for a bit before we headed south. Oh yeah, I failed to mention I had my aptitude test for the Calgary Fire Dept. scheduled for that day at 1:30pm.
Got to the Fire Dept (was actually a training facility which I learned is one of the biggest ones in Canada) and registered. Took a couple hours but I was out of there by around 4pm. Linds and I decided to head to Banff for the night. We tried once or twice in the past to go, but it never panned out our way due to time constraints or weather issues. But we were determined this time! I don't even remember the last time I was in Banff. Was there years and years ago with my family, but don't remember anything of it. So it was about a 2 hour drive there due to traffic and a crazy wind while driving along the highway.
Finally got to Banff, checked into the hotel, went for some much needed steak at The Keg (I needed it due to all the seafood from Japan), and then headed towards the hot springs. I loved that day. Plus, Lindsey was looking absolutely gorgeous that night.. couldn't take my eyes off her.
Just relaxed in the hotel after the hot springs and had a quiet night, we were debating heading over to Lake Louise Sunday morning for a quick stopover before heading back into town, but that wouldn't pan out.
Woke up Sunday morning to snow. not tons of snow, but enough to cover welll.. everything. So we decided to sleep in a bit, then grab some brunch, wander through the main street in Banff before taking the drive home. Yeah.. I drove home. I've driven in snow before, but that was much different, there was maybe like 200m visibility and couldn't really make out the lanes on the highway.. it was a slow drive, needless to say.
Had a mini Christmas on Sunday with Linds and her roommates (plus Dan) after we got back from watching Dan's hockey game. (Who would think an Aussie on ice skates would play not too bad??)
Monday was another somewhat relaxing day, well for me anyway. Linds was at work, then when she got home we just relaxed, I made tacos then we watched a movie on her laptop in bed.
Met up with her family last night for some lasagna, I went in with high expectations... and wasn't disappointed. It was quite delish. The whole night was great. Got to mingle with her family, watch a hockey game together.. I got the feeling that her family approves of me.. that they like me.. and that takes a huge weight off my shoulder. I was always freaking out, hoping that they would like me, that they would approve of me dating their daughter/sister.. and worrying waht would happen if they didn't. Glad I didn't have to find that out. I look forward to the next time I see them all. I wish I could been around for Christmas and spent more time with them.. but there's always next time. I knew that from the moment Lindsey told them she was considering dating me, and investing herself in another long distance relationship, that it would leave a bad taste in their mouth due to past experiences. I'm doing, and will continue to do, everything I possibly can to make sure this relationship is as easy on both of us as possible, and to also reassure her family that I am willing to do everything I can to take care of their daughter and do my best to make her as happy as she makes me. I hope I'm doing a good job of it so far.
Tonight : Finishing up Xmas shopping at the mall.. yeah, I'm crazy.
Tomorrow : Zoolights
Friday : Home :(
But, the good news is that I'll only go less than 7 days without seeing her before she comes to Van for New Years :)
Anyway. I got picked up by Lindsey's roommate since Linds was at work till 4:30. First time meeting her, despite having her on facebook and chatting with her for a couple months. Cool girl, easy going and all that :)
Waiting for Lindsey to come home from work felt like forever.. like time was standing still. I think it was around 3 weeks that we had been apart and obviously my trip to Japan made for a much more limited time for talking with each other. Was so happy when she walked in that door. I wanted to run and just wrap my arms around her and swing her around.. but seeing as though Liz was there, I didn't want to make much of a scene.
Friday was pretty low key, just a nice, relaxing night. Lindsey had a busy job of keeping me awake so I didn't pass out at 7pm and wake up at 3am. She actually did a damn good job, I think we finally went to bed at like.. 12:30am? lol
Sat morning she had a work meeting so she was up early, I went back to bed and passed out, woke up to her bringing me Tim Hortons in bed. Just relaxed for a bit before we headed south. Oh yeah, I failed to mention I had my aptitude test for the Calgary Fire Dept. scheduled for that day at 1:30pm.
Got to the Fire Dept (was actually a training facility which I learned is one of the biggest ones in Canada) and registered. Took a couple hours but I was out of there by around 4pm. Linds and I decided to head to Banff for the night. We tried once or twice in the past to go, but it never panned out our way due to time constraints or weather issues. But we were determined this time! I don't even remember the last time I was in Banff. Was there years and years ago with my family, but don't remember anything of it. So it was about a 2 hour drive there due to traffic and a crazy wind while driving along the highway.
Finally got to Banff, checked into the hotel, went for some much needed steak at The Keg (I needed it due to all the seafood from Japan), and then headed towards the hot springs. I loved that day. Plus, Lindsey was looking absolutely gorgeous that night.. couldn't take my eyes off her.
Just relaxed in the hotel after the hot springs and had a quiet night, we were debating heading over to Lake Louise Sunday morning for a quick stopover before heading back into town, but that wouldn't pan out.
Woke up Sunday morning to snow. not tons of snow, but enough to cover welll.. everything. So we decided to sleep in a bit, then grab some brunch, wander through the main street in Banff before taking the drive home. Yeah.. I drove home. I've driven in snow before, but that was much different, there was maybe like 200m visibility and couldn't really make out the lanes on the highway.. it was a slow drive, needless to say.
Had a mini Christmas on Sunday with Linds and her roommates (plus Dan) after we got back from watching Dan's hockey game. (Who would think an Aussie on ice skates would play not too bad??)
Monday was another somewhat relaxing day, well for me anyway. Linds was at work, then when she got home we just relaxed, I made tacos then we watched a movie on her laptop in bed.
Met up with her family last night for some lasagna, I went in with high expectations... and wasn't disappointed. It was quite delish. The whole night was great. Got to mingle with her family, watch a hockey game together.. I got the feeling that her family approves of me.. that they like me.. and that takes a huge weight off my shoulder. I was always freaking out, hoping that they would like me, that they would approve of me dating their daughter/sister.. and worrying waht would happen if they didn't. Glad I didn't have to find that out. I look forward to the next time I see them all. I wish I could been around for Christmas and spent more time with them.. but there's always next time. I knew that from the moment Lindsey told them she was considering dating me, and investing herself in another long distance relationship, that it would leave a bad taste in their mouth due to past experiences. I'm doing, and will continue to do, everything I possibly can to make sure this relationship is as easy on both of us as possible, and to also reassure her family that I am willing to do everything I can to take care of their daughter and do my best to make her as happy as she makes me. I hope I'm doing a good job of it so far.
Tonight : Finishing up Xmas shopping at the mall.. yeah, I'm crazy.
Tomorrow : Zoolights
Friday : Home :(
But, the good news is that I'll only go less than 7 days without seeing her before she comes to Van for New Years :)
Monday, 19 December 2011
Japan 2011
Ok, so I somewhat failed at keeping my blog up to date with my daily routine while in Japan. The last couple days there were our busy days and by the time I got back to the hotel, I just wanted to skype Lindsey. Even if we were only able to speak for 10 minutes before I went to bed, and she went to work, it made a world of difference.
Ok, so let's see, where did I leave off. Oh right!
So Wednesday we got picked up at the hotel by one of our customers, he's the one that I do business with. Dad basically gave me his contract and let me take the reigns. I'd say I'm doing a good job so far, it's a relitively small contact, but you have to start somewhere, right?
So he picked us up, and we started to drive up north. Three pretty serious car accidents within a 10km stretch on the road had us delayed by an hour and a half. Traffic sucks no matter what country you're in.
Once we got through that, we met up with two of his customers, it's a family business so it was father and son, chatted with them for a bit and basically just introduced ourselves, and showed them some product we had and were trying to sell.
An hour or so meeting and we were done. Dad and I went outside, and it's like.. countryside. Fields with different plants/veggies.. Nice to see and to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life (though I do love city life!). There was one crop right across the street that we were looking at and couldn't figure out what it was, so we went up closer to it and still couldn't figure it out. So once our guy came out with the son, we asked them. I forgot what type of crop it was, but that isn't the point.. the point is.. they said that they had to replant everything in this area because all the radiation from the Fukushima nuclear disaster basically made all the plants not healthy for human consumption. Dad and I gave each other one of the "uhh, wtf?" looks and asked just how close we were. Turns out we were still like 300km away. But the fact that the radiation traveled that far and did that much damage, a bit scary. So if I all of a sudden start to glow at night time or grow a third eyeball, I'll know why.
So yeah, finished off there and started to head back. Went into Yokohama (which is basically right beside Tokyo, but it's such a concrete jungle that you don't know where one city begins, and the other ends). Had a meeting with our guy and just went over everything. Manage to sell him the remaining inventory I had set aside for him (yay me!) and then we left for dinner.
He questioned us as to whether we ever had Fugu before. Neither dad nor myself had ever had it, but it's always been on my "must eat" list ever since seeing the simpsons episode. So we decided to try it out. Both dad and I were expecting like one plate of fugu sashimi... wrong. EVERYTHING was fugu. Fugu sashimi, Fried Fugu, Barbeque Fugu...the entire 5 course meal was fugu (minus the ice cream). Even when dad ordered a hot sake, it came with bbq'd fugu fins in it. Overall, it really wasn't anything special. Didn't have much of a taste. I guess people are just inclined to want to eat it because of the danger factor.
Either way, I'm glad I tried it, and it's something to check off the list. Won't go out of my way to have it again, but wouldn't decline if I was offered some more.
Thursday :
Caught an 11:00am flight up to Sapporo from Haneda. Upgraded our seats to business class. Makes the flight a bit easier, plus you get lunch on board. Was only $60 per seat to upgrade, so why not!
Landed and took the bus to the hotel just ouside of downtown Sapporo. Just relaxed for an hour or so before meeting up with Dad and our agent in the lobby. Had a very, very brief meeting before going to our clients office. These guys are our biggest contact so we always want to make sure we stay in their good graces.
Had a meeting with them and went over a few things, told them what kind of inventory situation we had and before you knew it, they bought it all.. at more than what we were expecting. No complaints from us!
Went out for dinner to Sukiyaki. Basically it's like a pot with some broth in it and you cook your own meat/veggies and then dip it into a raw egg and eat it. Strange, but the combination of the sweet egg (Egg's are different in Japan than here) with the flavour of the broth and the taste of the food was absolutely fantastic. Quite a delicious meal.
Then the drinking started. These boys like to drink. I stuck with my sake for the night, I woudn't say I was drunk, I doubt I could even say I was all that buzzed, but the next morning my head was hurting.. Sake gives you the type of hangover that wine does. Though you don't feel drunk while drinking it, it gives you a pounding headache in the morning. Lucky for us our flight out of Sapporo back to Tokyo wasn't till 2:20pm so I was able to relax a bit and just take it easy.
Got to the airport and bought like.. $200 worth of Sapporo cookies. They're delish!
Long flight back home in economy because our upgrades didn't go through, brief layover in Vancouver before flying to Calgary where Lindsey's roommate picked me up.
I'm currently sitting on Lindsey's bed, enjoying my life (minus the fact she's at work right now :( ).
Blog post to follow on the Calgary/Banff adventure!
Overall, Japan trip was worthwhile. Sold everything we had to sell and ate some good food. I love that city and the people, so polite. Can't wait to head over there with the girl and be able to show her around.. maybe take her to disneyland if she's lucky ;)
Ok, so let's see, where did I leave off. Oh right!
So Wednesday we got picked up at the hotel by one of our customers, he's the one that I do business with. Dad basically gave me his contract and let me take the reigns. I'd say I'm doing a good job so far, it's a relitively small contact, but you have to start somewhere, right?
So he picked us up, and we started to drive up north. Three pretty serious car accidents within a 10km stretch on the road had us delayed by an hour and a half. Traffic sucks no matter what country you're in.
Once we got through that, we met up with two of his customers, it's a family business so it was father and son, chatted with them for a bit and basically just introduced ourselves, and showed them some product we had and were trying to sell.
An hour or so meeting and we were done. Dad and I went outside, and it's like.. countryside. Fields with different plants/veggies.. Nice to see and to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life (though I do love city life!). There was one crop right across the street that we were looking at and couldn't figure out what it was, so we went up closer to it and still couldn't figure it out. So once our guy came out with the son, we asked them. I forgot what type of crop it was, but that isn't the point.. the point is.. they said that they had to replant everything in this area because all the radiation from the Fukushima nuclear disaster basically made all the plants not healthy for human consumption. Dad and I gave each other one of the "uhh, wtf?" looks and asked just how close we were. Turns out we were still like 300km away. But the fact that the radiation traveled that far and did that much damage, a bit scary. So if I all of a sudden start to glow at night time or grow a third eyeball, I'll know why.
So yeah, finished off there and started to head back. Went into Yokohama (which is basically right beside Tokyo, but it's such a concrete jungle that you don't know where one city begins, and the other ends). Had a meeting with our guy and just went over everything. Manage to sell him the remaining inventory I had set aside for him (yay me!) and then we left for dinner.
He questioned us as to whether we ever had Fugu before. Neither dad nor myself had ever had it, but it's always been on my "must eat" list ever since seeing the simpsons episode. So we decided to try it out. Both dad and I were expecting like one plate of fugu sashimi... wrong. EVERYTHING was fugu. Fugu sashimi, Fried Fugu, Barbeque Fugu...the entire 5 course meal was fugu (minus the ice cream). Even when dad ordered a hot sake, it came with bbq'd fugu fins in it. Overall, it really wasn't anything special. Didn't have much of a taste. I guess people are just inclined to want to eat it because of the danger factor.
Either way, I'm glad I tried it, and it's something to check off the list. Won't go out of my way to have it again, but wouldn't decline if I was offered some more.
Thursday :
Caught an 11:00am flight up to Sapporo from Haneda. Upgraded our seats to business class. Makes the flight a bit easier, plus you get lunch on board. Was only $60 per seat to upgrade, so why not!
Landed and took the bus to the hotel just ouside of downtown Sapporo. Just relaxed for an hour or so before meeting up with Dad and our agent in the lobby. Had a very, very brief meeting before going to our clients office. These guys are our biggest contact so we always want to make sure we stay in their good graces.
Had a meeting with them and went over a few things, told them what kind of inventory situation we had and before you knew it, they bought it all.. at more than what we were expecting. No complaints from us!
Went out for dinner to Sukiyaki. Basically it's like a pot with some broth in it and you cook your own meat/veggies and then dip it into a raw egg and eat it. Strange, but the combination of the sweet egg (Egg's are different in Japan than here) with the flavour of the broth and the taste of the food was absolutely fantastic. Quite a delicious meal.
Then the drinking started. These boys like to drink. I stuck with my sake for the night, I woudn't say I was drunk, I doubt I could even say I was all that buzzed, but the next morning my head was hurting.. Sake gives you the type of hangover that wine does. Though you don't feel drunk while drinking it, it gives you a pounding headache in the morning. Lucky for us our flight out of Sapporo back to Tokyo wasn't till 2:20pm so I was able to relax a bit and just take it easy.
Got to the airport and bought like.. $200 worth of Sapporo cookies. They're delish!
Long flight back home in economy because our upgrades didn't go through, brief layover in Vancouver before flying to Calgary where Lindsey's roommate picked me up.
I'm currently sitting on Lindsey's bed, enjoying my life (minus the fact she's at work right now :( ).
Blog post to follow on the Calgary/Banff adventure!
Overall, Japan trip was worthwhile. Sold everything we had to sell and ate some good food. I love that city and the people, so polite. Can't wait to head over there with the girl and be able to show her around.. maybe take her to disneyland if she's lucky ;)
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
Konbanwa
End of Day 1. Well it's actually the morning of Day 2 but I was absolutely exhausted last night and wasn't able to get on here and write a blog post. I hit the bed and passed out. Woke up at 6 this morning, actually fairly easily too! Didn't have much of a problem getting up at that time.
Yesterday was pretty relaxing. Had breakfast with Dad in the morning, had a big breakfast actually.. was delish and then I just relaxed in the room, spoke with linds for a few hours and then we had to head off to a meeting. Took a cab to the address, got out and realized we were 30 mins early. So dad had a smoke and I kind of wandered the area... then like 5-10 mins later, the SAME cab driver pulls up to us, and motions for us to get in his cab. If this were any other place aside from Japan, I'd be hesitant, but we jumped in and he drove us like 6 blocks away and right infrotn of the right place. So he brought us to the wrong place the first time, but came back to find us and bring us to the right place.. who does that!? That's the first time I've ever seen that happen before. Un-fricking-believable!
So yeah, had the meeting and it went as it always does. Nothing amazing but wasn't horrible. Still trying to do business with this guy, have been for years.
Cabbed back to the hotel, hung out in Dad's room for an hour and a bit, had some snacks and some drinks while the Hotel staff tried to fix his TV.. after watching them try to fix it for 30 mins, it was deemed they couldn't fix the TV and they wanted to move him to a new room. So he packed up his stuff and we went downstairs and met up with Dad's old boss.
Went for dinner, had a bunch of stuff, Sashimi, octopus, mushrooms, salad, big pot of shabu shabu with different things in it.. rice.. Was a good meal, lots of food!
Then we said our goodbyes and came back to the hotel. I was exhausted so I came to my room and pretty much passed out.
Today we have a meeting all day, probably won't be back till late, so we'll see if I do a blog post tonight or tomorrow morning.
Yesterday was pretty relaxing. Had breakfast with Dad in the morning, had a big breakfast actually.. was delish and then I just relaxed in the room, spoke with linds for a few hours and then we had to head off to a meeting. Took a cab to the address, got out and realized we were 30 mins early. So dad had a smoke and I kind of wandered the area... then like 5-10 mins later, the SAME cab driver pulls up to us, and motions for us to get in his cab. If this were any other place aside from Japan, I'd be hesitant, but we jumped in and he drove us like 6 blocks away and right infrotn of the right place. So he brought us to the wrong place the first time, but came back to find us and bring us to the right place.. who does that!? That's the first time I've ever seen that happen before. Un-fricking-believable!
So yeah, had the meeting and it went as it always does. Nothing amazing but wasn't horrible. Still trying to do business with this guy, have been for years.
Cabbed back to the hotel, hung out in Dad's room for an hour and a bit, had some snacks and some drinks while the Hotel staff tried to fix his TV.. after watching them try to fix it for 30 mins, it was deemed they couldn't fix the TV and they wanted to move him to a new room. So he packed up his stuff and we went downstairs and met up with Dad's old boss.
Went for dinner, had a bunch of stuff, Sashimi, octopus, mushrooms, salad, big pot of shabu shabu with different things in it.. rice.. Was a good meal, lots of food!
Then we said our goodbyes and came back to the hotel. I was exhausted so I came to my room and pretty much passed out.
Today we have a meeting all day, probably won't be back till late, so we'll see if I do a blog post tonight or tomorrow morning.
Monday, 12 December 2011
Ohayo gozaimasu!
First full day in Japan!
Left yesterday at 2:10.. no wait.. 2:30.. no.. 2:55.. yeah, we were delayed. Both dad and I were on the wait list to get upgraded to Executive First and have our own pods, but it was a no go. A lot of people use up all their upgrades around this time of year since they expire soon so getting an upgrade can be a bit difficult at times. Flight wasn't too bad, the food was something that I don't even think Daisy would eat. Not good at all, but what do you expect. Flight was pretty uneventful, we hit some pretty good turbulence a couple hours in to the point where the captain told the flight attendances to go to their seats and buckle up as well. I opened the window, and yeah, nothing but clouds to be seen... even though we were at like 37,000 feet. I haven't seen something like that before, but that explains the turbulence. The wings were bouncing all around, thank god those things are able to withstand all that movement and bouncing around!
We landed at Narita airport, and while we were taxiing to the gate we went by a Singapore Airlines A380.. My god that thing is huge. For sure going onto my bucket list that I have to fly in one of those. First class would be nice but I know first class from San Fran to Frankfurt on Lufthansa was something like $21,000.. a bit steep...
So then I got my luggage from baggage claim (Usually don't bring anything with me, but since I'm heading to Calgary directly and the weather is a bit different between the two cities. It's currently 11 degrees in Tokyo right now,and -13 in Calgary.. so only a 24 degree difference between the two. I probably should have/could have packed my winter jacket in my luggage, but then I wouldn't have as much room for all the cookies and such that I'm suppose to bring with me to Calgary :P
So yeah, we got to the hotel last night, checked in around 9pm and realized the restaurants closed at 9:30, so we quickly dumped our bags in our room and went for sushi (a tradition). They had a 5 course dinner. First was an appetizer of uhh.. I don't know what, it was almost like fish in a gelatin.. meh, wasn't anything special. Then we had some sashimi, Fatty tuna, white fish and what I think was a clam. Was all good, then Nigiri/rolls, followed by a clam soup and then fresh fruit for dessert. That's the one thing about Japan that I love, I seem to always eat just the right amount of food, never too full, never still hungry.. just perfect.
So then, back to the room, showered, came online and wrote an e-mail and tried to say up for the girl, but after being up for nearly 22 hours, I was exhausted, once my head hit the pillow I was out.
Got a good nights sleep (this bed is HUGE), then went for breakfast with dad, now just sitting in the room and relaxing a bit before heading off for our first meeting.
I guess I'll report back at the end of the day! Time to look at possible vacation spots to go with Linds sometime next year!
Left yesterday at 2:10.. no wait.. 2:30.. no.. 2:55.. yeah, we were delayed. Both dad and I were on the wait list to get upgraded to Executive First and have our own pods, but it was a no go. A lot of people use up all their upgrades around this time of year since they expire soon so getting an upgrade can be a bit difficult at times. Flight wasn't too bad, the food was something that I don't even think Daisy would eat. Not good at all, but what do you expect. Flight was pretty uneventful, we hit some pretty good turbulence a couple hours in to the point where the captain told the flight attendances to go to their seats and buckle up as well. I opened the window, and yeah, nothing but clouds to be seen... even though we were at like 37,000 feet. I haven't seen something like that before, but that explains the turbulence. The wings were bouncing all around, thank god those things are able to withstand all that movement and bouncing around!
We landed at Narita airport, and while we were taxiing to the gate we went by a Singapore Airlines A380.. My god that thing is huge. For sure going onto my bucket list that I have to fly in one of those. First class would be nice but I know first class from San Fran to Frankfurt on Lufthansa was something like $21,000.. a bit steep...
So then I got my luggage from baggage claim (Usually don't bring anything with me, but since I'm heading to Calgary directly and the weather is a bit different between the two cities. It's currently 11 degrees in Tokyo right now,and -13 in Calgary.. so only a 24 degree difference between the two. I probably should have/could have packed my winter jacket in my luggage, but then I wouldn't have as much room for all the cookies and such that I'm suppose to bring with me to Calgary :P
So yeah, we got to the hotel last night, checked in around 9pm and realized the restaurants closed at 9:30, so we quickly dumped our bags in our room and went for sushi (a tradition). They had a 5 course dinner. First was an appetizer of uhh.. I don't know what, it was almost like fish in a gelatin.. meh, wasn't anything special. Then we had some sashimi, Fatty tuna, white fish and what I think was a clam. Was all good, then Nigiri/rolls, followed by a clam soup and then fresh fruit for dessert. That's the one thing about Japan that I love, I seem to always eat just the right amount of food, never too full, never still hungry.. just perfect.
So then, back to the room, showered, came online and wrote an e-mail and tried to say up for the girl, but after being up for nearly 22 hours, I was exhausted, once my head hit the pillow I was out.
Got a good nights sleep (this bed is HUGE), then went for breakfast with dad, now just sitting in the room and relaxing a bit before heading off for our first meeting.
I guess I'll report back at the end of the day! Time to look at possible vacation spots to go with Linds sometime next year!
Friday, 9 December 2011
Fire Department take 2
Well.. that was quick...
I sent in my application last night.. and this morning/early afternoon I got an e-mail from the Calgary Fire Department saying that I was selected to advance on past the application phase and I guess start phase 1 of the actual recruitment process. So now I'm booked (just waiting for confirmation) to take an aptitude test next Saturday (Dec 17th).. the day after I get to Calgary from Japan.. I"m going to be tired!
I don't even know what the aptitude test involves, is it just general things to make sure I'm competent? Make sure I know how to cross my t's and dot my i's? or is it more specific and dealing more to real life situations and "What would you do?" scenarios? I don't know, I'm suppose to be receiving an e-mail from them confirming my time as well as more detail as to what's going on, so I guess I'll find out within a few days. I don't even know WHERE in Calgary this test is taking place.
I can't even believe I got past the application phase. Perhaps they pass everyone as long as they say "Yes" to certain things and "No" to others? Or maybe they actually read through my written responses and thought that I was worth a shot. Who knows, I'll never know, but I guess it doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of things.
So I got this e-mail, and the first thing I did was call my parents since well.. they didn't even know I applied for the job so I figured it's something that I should bring them up to speed with so I don't randomly go "Hey guys! I'm moving to Calgary next week because I got a job at the Calgary Fire Department!" So after a bit of a discussion with them going over everything, I called the girl. Obviously, if it weren't for her none of this would be happening.
Me: *ring ring* *ring ring* *ring ring*
Her : "Good Afternoon, This is Lindsey, how may I help you" (See how formal and polite she is!? :P)
Me: "Uhh... I got an e-mail"
Her: "What!? Omg! that's awesome!"
So yeah, it is pretty damn awesome and I know that when I told her, and when she heard me say it.. we both had a big smile on our face. I don't think either of us were expecting much from this so to even get this far is something I'm happy about.
I'm still not overly optimistic about the whole thing, but it's a step closer right? I don't have all the qualifications but if they do decide they need/want me, I'll do everything I can to get it all done as soon as possible. Apparently they're hurting for good applicants. I don't know what constitutes a good applicant, but I think I'm a pretty awesome individual!
So, if this is indeed as far as this process will take me and I don't get the job, I'll leave happy knowing that I got this far and gained some valuable experience to put towards the next time it comes along.
Today was a good day.
I sent in my application last night.. and this morning/early afternoon I got an e-mail from the Calgary Fire Department saying that I was selected to advance on past the application phase and I guess start phase 1 of the actual recruitment process. So now I'm booked (just waiting for confirmation) to take an aptitude test next Saturday (Dec 17th).. the day after I get to Calgary from Japan.. I"m going to be tired!
I don't even know what the aptitude test involves, is it just general things to make sure I'm competent? Make sure I know how to cross my t's and dot my i's? or is it more specific and dealing more to real life situations and "What would you do?" scenarios? I don't know, I'm suppose to be receiving an e-mail from them confirming my time as well as more detail as to what's going on, so I guess I'll find out within a few days. I don't even know WHERE in Calgary this test is taking place.
I can't even believe I got past the application phase. Perhaps they pass everyone as long as they say "Yes" to certain things and "No" to others? Or maybe they actually read through my written responses and thought that I was worth a shot. Who knows, I'll never know, but I guess it doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of things.
So I got this e-mail, and the first thing I did was call my parents since well.. they didn't even know I applied for the job so I figured it's something that I should bring them up to speed with so I don't randomly go "Hey guys! I'm moving to Calgary next week because I got a job at the Calgary Fire Department!" So after a bit of a discussion with them going over everything, I called the girl. Obviously, if it weren't for her none of this would be happening.
Me: *ring ring* *ring ring* *ring ring*
Her : "Good Afternoon, This is Lindsey, how may I help you" (See how formal and polite she is!? :P)
Me: "Uhh... I got an e-mail"
Her: "What!? Omg! that's awesome!"
So yeah, it is pretty damn awesome and I know that when I told her, and when she heard me say it.. we both had a big smile on our face. I don't think either of us were expecting much from this so to even get this far is something I'm happy about.
I'm still not overly optimistic about the whole thing, but it's a step closer right? I don't have all the qualifications but if they do decide they need/want me, I'll do everything I can to get it all done as soon as possible. Apparently they're hurting for good applicants. I don't know what constitutes a good applicant, but I think I'm a pretty awesome individual!
So, if this is indeed as far as this process will take me and I don't get the job, I'll leave happy knowing that I got this far and gained some valuable experience to put towards the next time it comes along.
Today was a good day.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Fire Department...
Well.. I did it!
Well, depends what "it" is. Lindsey retweeted that the Calgary Fire Dept was accepting applications to join the fire department and the cut off was tomorrow (Dec 9). I checked it out, looked to see what the qualifications were, and although I don't have all of them, they stipulated that *if* an applicant makes it to the interview stage, that at that time they would have to ensure that all qualifications are met. So, I filled out the application figuring what the hell. It can't do me any harm, and who knows, perhaps they are in such a dire need that they may consider me. Or maybe they'll be looking for someone from out of town for some strange reason..
I'm not too optimistic at my chances considering I'm in the midst of accomplishing everything needed, plus I still need to volunteer more. At least the positive thing is that if for whatever reason, this does go through and all works out, I have the ability to go to Calgary on a moments notice and have a place to stay during the whole interview/medical/physical/polygraph process.
It's almost a little scary. Just taking that step. Knowing, well.. hoping, that there will come a time where I will get that call to go in for an interview and if I play my cards right, have the opportunity to join a fire department and finally be able to meet my career goal in life.
I mean, I'm still in the whole confusion as to whether I do this or continue on with my Dad's business... I guess we just play it by ear and see what happens. Both Lindsey and I said that if this thing with Calgary Fire Department goes through, that it's gotta be fate...
I'm already registered for my First Aid Level 3 (Gonna be sooooo brutal), and I just need to get my air brakes (which is a 2 day course, so nothing major). Though, it seems that if I want to be in a fire department in Alberta, I need to have two other licenses, one for driving fire apparatus (duh), and the other to drive an ambulance with people inside. I think that may be something that has to be done in Alberta, because I don't believe they have something like that here..they should actually.. I"ll have to check it out.
Thinking of me finally being in the fire department makes me smile. Sure, the pay wouldn't be as good as if I were to continue on with the business, but at least I know I'm safe with retirement and benefits and all that. So that's reassuring, and then at least I know that my wife and kid(s) will be taken care of as well.
The waiting begins, though apparently they'll send out e-mails letting people know if they made it so the second phase or not by next week already. Would be funny to receive a letter saying they want me to come in for an interview while I'm in Japan.
It's an exciting stage in my life, and it wouldn't be happening if it weren't for Lindsey. I haven't thanked her yet for showing me.. but Lindsey... Thank you. You have no idea how grateful I am for having you in my life and for everything you've done for me. You truly do make me feel like the luckiest guy in the world.
Tick Tock.. Let's see what happens.
Well, depends what "it" is. Lindsey retweeted that the Calgary Fire Dept was accepting applications to join the fire department and the cut off was tomorrow (Dec 9). I checked it out, looked to see what the qualifications were, and although I don't have all of them, they stipulated that *if* an applicant makes it to the interview stage, that at that time they would have to ensure that all qualifications are met. So, I filled out the application figuring what the hell. It can't do me any harm, and who knows, perhaps they are in such a dire need that they may consider me. Or maybe they'll be looking for someone from out of town for some strange reason..
I'm not too optimistic at my chances considering I'm in the midst of accomplishing everything needed, plus I still need to volunteer more. At least the positive thing is that if for whatever reason, this does go through and all works out, I have the ability to go to Calgary on a moments notice and have a place to stay during the whole interview/medical/physical/polygraph process.
It's almost a little scary. Just taking that step. Knowing, well.. hoping, that there will come a time where I will get that call to go in for an interview and if I play my cards right, have the opportunity to join a fire department and finally be able to meet my career goal in life.
I mean, I'm still in the whole confusion as to whether I do this or continue on with my Dad's business... I guess we just play it by ear and see what happens. Both Lindsey and I said that if this thing with Calgary Fire Department goes through, that it's gotta be fate...
I'm already registered for my First Aid Level 3 (Gonna be sooooo brutal), and I just need to get my air brakes (which is a 2 day course, so nothing major). Though, it seems that if I want to be in a fire department in Alberta, I need to have two other licenses, one for driving fire apparatus (duh), and the other to drive an ambulance with people inside. I think that may be something that has to be done in Alberta, because I don't believe they have something like that here..they should actually.. I"ll have to check it out.
Thinking of me finally being in the fire department makes me smile. Sure, the pay wouldn't be as good as if I were to continue on with the business, but at least I know I'm safe with retirement and benefits and all that. So that's reassuring, and then at least I know that my wife and kid(s) will be taken care of as well.
The waiting begins, though apparently they'll send out e-mails letting people know if they made it so the second phase or not by next week already. Would be funny to receive a letter saying they want me to come in for an interview while I'm in Japan.
It's an exciting stage in my life, and it wouldn't be happening if it weren't for Lindsey. I haven't thanked her yet for showing me.. but Lindsey... Thank you. You have no idea how grateful I am for having you in my life and for everything you've done for me. You truly do make me feel like the luckiest guy in the world.
Tick Tock.. Let's see what happens.
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Without you..
...I wouldn't be me.
I know I wrote about the girl already and how much she means to me etc. etc. But I've read it, and re-read it.. and it just doesn't do justice. Especially considering how she writes about me and our relationship.
I've always had feelings for her. She was able to get me and understand me for who I am right off the bat. She was (and thankfully, still is) able to deal with my random shenanigans.
I told her earlier today that I've been trying to find the right words to be able to describe who she is as a person... what she means to me. I'm still struggling to find those words. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for her.
She has always been there for me, I knew that I could always count on her to pick up her phone or text me back if I needed, even if it was at 3am. She was there for me at my worst, and at my best. I really can't ever tell her how much she means to me and how much of a positive influence she has been in my life. I've faced some dark roads in my life, but she has always been there to hold my hand and help me through them.
That girl... she always inspires me to be a better person, to keep moving ahead and to not only improve myself, but those around me. She has so much drive in her, she is constantly working on improving herself. I always told her that she was the type of individual that would brighten a room just by walking into it, she has a glow that spreads warmth/love to anyone that comes into contact with her. I'm not the only one who has told her this, she's a people person. She cares not only about herself and the ones close to her, but to everyone. If she's able to do something to make someone's day a little bit better, despite never meeting that person before, she would do it. She has so much love in her heart, it isn't difficult for her to leave a lasting positive impression on everyone.
She constantly reminds me that any dream you may have, is within reach. That it is YOU that controls what happens in your life, which path you take, and how you go about working through all obstacles you face. That no matter what happens, you can always work through it and get past it, it just takes some motivation, perseverance and dedication.
I can't even being to explain all the feelings she makes me feel. It's unlike anything I've felt before. She makes me feel loved on a daily basis, a feeling that I'm wanted. Gives me motivation to do things I normally would be hesitant to. Lifts me up when I fall down. Has those encouraging words at the right time.
I'm extremely grateful that she is in my life. I was lucky to be able to call her a friend, even luckier to be able to call her my best friend... and I really am the luckiest person to be able to call her my girlfriend.
It's not everyday you meet someone who means as much to you as she does to me. Can I honestly sit here and say that I knew that things would end up the way they are now? Nope, I'm glad they turned out the way they did though. I couldn't be happier. We have the same outlook on things, we're both hard working, motivated and want to travel the world and help out people however we can. The time we spend together is amazing, whatever it is we're doing, it's enjoyable. The times we're apart, we do our best to make it as easy as we can, it is difficult at times (especially with how often she gets sick and I'm not able to take care of her!) but we work through it, knowing that the distance will make us appreciate our time together that much more.
Besides, with both of us being as hard working/dedicated as we are, what's 427 miles?
<3
I know I wrote about the girl already and how much she means to me etc. etc. But I've read it, and re-read it.. and it just doesn't do justice. Especially considering how she writes about me and our relationship.
I've always had feelings for her. She was able to get me and understand me for who I am right off the bat. She was (and thankfully, still is) able to deal with my random shenanigans.
I told her earlier today that I've been trying to find the right words to be able to describe who she is as a person... what she means to me. I'm still struggling to find those words. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for her.
She has always been there for me, I knew that I could always count on her to pick up her phone or text me back if I needed, even if it was at 3am. She was there for me at my worst, and at my best. I really can't ever tell her how much she means to me and how much of a positive influence she has been in my life. I've faced some dark roads in my life, but she has always been there to hold my hand and help me through them.
That girl... she always inspires me to be a better person, to keep moving ahead and to not only improve myself, but those around me. She has so much drive in her, she is constantly working on improving herself. I always told her that she was the type of individual that would brighten a room just by walking into it, she has a glow that spreads warmth/love to anyone that comes into contact with her. I'm not the only one who has told her this, she's a people person. She cares not only about herself and the ones close to her, but to everyone. If she's able to do something to make someone's day a little bit better, despite never meeting that person before, she would do it. She has so much love in her heart, it isn't difficult for her to leave a lasting positive impression on everyone.
She constantly reminds me that any dream you may have, is within reach. That it is YOU that controls what happens in your life, which path you take, and how you go about working through all obstacles you face. That no matter what happens, you can always work through it and get past it, it just takes some motivation, perseverance and dedication.
I can't even being to explain all the feelings she makes me feel. It's unlike anything I've felt before. She makes me feel loved on a daily basis, a feeling that I'm wanted. Gives me motivation to do things I normally would be hesitant to. Lifts me up when I fall down. Has those encouraging words at the right time.
I'm extremely grateful that she is in my life. I was lucky to be able to call her a friend, even luckier to be able to call her my best friend... and I really am the luckiest person to be able to call her my girlfriend.
It's not everyday you meet someone who means as much to you as she does to me. Can I honestly sit here and say that I knew that things would end up the way they are now? Nope, I'm glad they turned out the way they did though. I couldn't be happier. We have the same outlook on things, we're both hard working, motivated and want to travel the world and help out people however we can. The time we spend together is amazing, whatever it is we're doing, it's enjoyable. The times we're apart, we do our best to make it as easy as we can, it is difficult at times (especially with how often she gets sick and I'm not able to take care of her!) but we work through it, knowing that the distance will make us appreciate our time together that much more.
Besides, with both of us being as hard working/dedicated as we are, what's 427 miles?
<3
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