RIP Michael H.

I meet Mike at first via email, with questions about my upcoming NYE party. He was looking for a reasonable party alternative and I was throwing one. By the time he got the the party, it we busy and I was crazy.

Once the party developed a good flow, we were able to connect and chat. After that we clicked and connected afterwards for dinners and to go to other events. Mike always lived life to the fullest and had some amazing occasion or event up his sleeve to go to. He would get behind a good cause or there when a friend needed him.

Mike was the most generous, giving and warmhearted person I knew. So willing to pitch in, help and do what needed to be done for a friend or party. He just would open up his heart and house, letting people in and creating bonds between strangers. 

By the time I found out he was sick, he was already having his 'I've gotten well "Kidney" party'. I was so happy to know he gotten well because I was just getting to know this fun loving, laid back, guy. Luckily, there we a bit more time for us to hang, go out and enjoy life; this is what Mike was best at... enjoying life. I have to thank him for the impromptu random events we would attend, that were 'guest listed' with comp food and bar... specifically the Ferrari one.

When I was struggling to find an event space to have my birthday, Mike generously offered and helped me host a fabulous party. One of the best nights I have had in SF and all thanks to being with a good friend.

Time passed and we hung out once more, but then before I knew it I heard the bad news that had passed away. Shock is all I felt and still do feel. I just cannot believe the world took away someone so young and who was well onto his second chance. The world has lost an amazing soul, a hard worker, with a heart of gold. RIP Michael H.

Australia: Sydney

Luckily after such a long flight to get across the world, flying from Christchurch to Sydney, did not seem bad at all. Unfortunately I was delayed a good bit, which was not good because I had plans to meet a friend that night! Not hard to guess, I was stressing a bit. Thus I ran the whole way, checked in, dropped my stuff and then turn and ran out the door with hardly a clue where I was staying or going. Made it to my destination and lucky for me, my friend Mr. S was there with friends waiting. We went out to get food, ended up in a restaurant with a menu as long as a mile and had a great meal. Then spent some time wandering around the harbor, looking at Sydney at night decked out for the holidays and chatting. As I crashed, since it was a very long day, I couldn't help but think it was a great first night.

The next day I set out and started to just walk around to get my bearings. The church and park above was not only a landmark, it also was a great place to break (OK siesta), lounge in the sun, or read a book. Sydney is easy to navigate but includes a bit of walking, and when you are carrying a heavy bag; it helps to have a rest spot. 

I reached out to a friend of the family Ms. K (in the middle above) and she included me in her girls night out! We had so much fun bouncing from bar to bar, hitting the dance floor and chatting up locals. Her whole crew was just as open and friendly as she was and made me feel very welcomed.

 

The next day, it was crazy hot... just like I like it. Naturally, I decided to hit the beach. Bondi Beach that is. I had a lovely time just lounging around and popping into the ocean. I met some cool people to hang out with for the day and then headed back. Wandered around but really spend the majority of the day baking at the beach. Let me tell you, it was a perfect day!

Woke up early to go on the free tour, and they took us around a lot of the sites. Again I was with a heavy backpack and after an hour of half of walking my dogs started to get tired. I had already seen most of the sights they were showing me except for the full Rocks and tunnel below.

I started to hang at the back of the group and make a friend. We both were enjoying the tour but it was long, over three hours. While the history was interesting, it was not enthralling and as much as we liked and were engaged with our tour guide; our feet were complaining to much and we decided ditch. 

On route to find the other less famous and only 10 ft shorter revolving tower and restaurant  we knew were were on the right track via the sculpture above. Yes, sometimes I actually have a great idea and want the photo to be shot.

Shortly after, we took a long elevator ride up and sat down before the happy hour rush and had a nice drink as the restaurant slowly turned to show of the city skyline. I really enjoyed the company of my new found friend Ms. M. Below are some of my favorite shots.

After while a few of Ms.M's friends joined us and we started to walk around in search of food. We also stumbled into a funky light art installation in an alley way below.

We went all the way to one side of the city to find our destination closed, then went back to the other side and found a great brewery restaurant. By that time we were starving and everyone ate well. Decided not to go out with Ms.M's crew to rest for NYE. I got to relax at the hostel for a bit and then got dragged along to a pub crawl with my hostel.

We bounced around a bit and then ended up in Scruffy's, which had a sports pub up top and two dance floors below. It ended up being a killer night filled with dancing and new friends (below).

The next night I managed to sleep in, OK so I was up and out of the hostel by 10:30, but considering I was out before 9. This was luxury. I decided to keep on that track and walk to the Quay, get food and then catch the ferry.

Sydney from water is something everyone should see, and from the number of boats out; many people do. It was great to be able to take better shots of the skyline (above) and of course, the famous Opera House (below). 

Then a short walk, through a nice shopping strip to Manly Beach! Yes, Manly and from the number of surfers you could tell testosterone ran a bit higher on this beach. Yet unlike Bondi Beach, there were a bit less people. 

I guess the ferry deterred them? Who knows, for myself I parked it in the early afternoon. Had fruits, water and a good book to keep me occupied. For those who know me, I am a busy bee type of person; but put me in a warm beach and I can lounge. Which is exactly what I did!

Was not until the sun was almost setting did I realize how quick the time passed. Luckily I was on the boat already and would be be able to get ready for NYE soon enough. Dressed in a snap, grabbed a few Mates from the hostel and off we ran.

First we got our wrist bands and a quick drink. Borrowed a friends headband for some flash and snapped a shot. See the tan I am was working on!

The streets are madness and overcrowded. Making our way to find a viewing spot was intense. Happily everyone was well mannered and no fights broke out, some parts of the crowd looked hairy for a moment.

Then we went to stake our spot to view the fireworks and lucked out as someone gave us extra passes into the spot they were headed to. Meaning we got a perfect view of Darling Harbour! All the boats in the bay were lite up like they were on the Playa of Burning Man. The shot above does not show it but they choose a kiss or set of lips as the NYE emblem. Fireworks went off in all directions, from the bridge, hotels on the side and behind us, the boats, Opera House... EVERYWHERE. It lasted about 20 minuets. If you want to watch see the full thing below:

After it was back to Jackson on the George, and a night full of dancing, laughing and sharing good times with random strangers. We got back to the hotel around 5:30 am and sadly I could not crash well. I had to check out the next day by 10. Bleh!

Being half pack but not really, and with a fresh load of clothes done the night before (somehow managed before NYE), I had to completely reorganized. Wanting to be nice to my dorm room, I made trips and did it in the lounge so I did not wake anyone. Oddly, I had two travelers watching me pack with the jaws dropping ever moment with how much stuff I could take in how little bags. My secret? Spacebags! Kneeling on them works just as well.

Afterwards, one of the astounded travelers decided to join me on a quick museum run since I had half a day to kill before my flight. We went to the Contemporary Art Museum and saw some incredible pieces of art, see for yourself below.

The sculpture roof top garden with a view of an huge cruise boat behind it is above and a multidimensional piece is below.

I thought the flashing arrow below was too cute of a picture to pass up, even if the cement was ridiculously hot.

We grabbed lunch to go and walked through the Botanical Gardens (below) to eat, nap/read and relax.

After I had a flight to catch and was picked up by the shuttle. Once at the airport, there was confusion. Flight times had change, I was not notified, and a good bit of  of running around thanks to Jetstar sending from domestic to international and back twice not knowing their flight schedules. Warning: Unlike most airports, their shuttle is not free it is like $5.50 each way! Can we say rip off? 

Obviously Jetstar got me to my destination and did not loose my bags like Air New Zealand tended to. Yet it was a hiccup that ended a nice day and caused me to take an expensive taxi to my next hostel as there were no shuttles running. 

Oh well, we got to roll with life's bumps right?

Zorbing!

Zorbing was not on my list of things to do but should have been. I saw a video of it years ago and thought wow that looks fun. Naturally when I stumbled upon it, I had to try it and lucky for me I got the original company!

  

Naturally you have options on the course, I choose to go straight down and windy. They stamp you so the rest of the crew can easily tell what you want to do. Then you change into your suit and get ready.

The "Zorb" is a giant bubble within a bubble, honestly looks a bit like a hampster ball except for humans. You are of course sealed in but there hole is for easy entry and exit by diving in and sliding out. 

Naturally you have to drive the giant bubble up the hill so you can roll down it. They encourage you to try to run with the ball as long as you can; really you cannot, so don't bother to try. Once the ball is going, you are flying.

 Then I was driven up for the next ride, which is suppose to be more crazy. The first one was a blast, so I am excited for the second.

 Paused for a picture with the amazing view before I dived into the bubble for my second ride.

 Unlike the first course which was straight down, this one is windy with curves and really throws you around. Luckily you are in a big cushy bubble that is filled with a bit of water and it simulates a water slide.

Check out the video below. It was serious fun, hard to keep a hold of the camera or even the direction you are flying in.

If you are ever in New Zealand, Rotorua specifically this is makes for a great event, and fun day trip. It is the only place in the world that has the Zorb.

NYE 2012/13 in Sydney

 

I have been planning my trip to New Zealand and Australia, decided that NYE should be in Sydney. That was the easy part! Afterwards I have tried to figure out what to do and looks like it I am flying solo. Which put another twist, how do I want to spend NYE alone? I will be hanging with my good friend Ms.V the days before and most likely not making great friends in the Hostel. Leaving to wonder, what to do?

Not wanting to be alone at least with out good tunes I started to look for a party and feel like I am doing it in the blind. I keep researching and checking out places to go, parties to see... Sydney has so much going on! Their are like 6 firework shows the most prominent being over Darling Harbor and a ton of boats all light up; reminding me of Burning Man's Playa! I did not want to be stuck on a boat, in case I did not like or find anyone to be friends with. Knowing I would be on my own, I have been researching and cannot seem to make up my mind. Thus blogging to help work through the processes.

1. Jackson on the George: Aimed to be an imitation Full Moon Party from Thailand, the VIP ticket includes pass-out to the Circular Quay Fireworks - which seems like one of the best viewing spots. The VIP also included open bar with beer, wine or soda... but I am good with the wine and some light snacks from 6-8pm! The music is pretty mix and the venue is well known holds 1000 people with 4 floors.

2. Harbour Party: On The harbor and will have great views of the main firework show, plus unlimited carnival rides. There is a bar but the VIP only gets you a comp drink or two not open bar and VIP tickets are pretty pricey $250 + but come with exclusive waterfront viewing. I am hesitant about this, not sure if carnival rides and drinking is a great idea or if I want that.

3. Shore Thing: On Bondi Beach, a huge party.. probably one of the most famous for Sydney. They have great major name artists every year and this year is no different. With The Chemical Brothers, Knife Party and Fredde Le Grande as the main draw. It seems massive. They have of course their own firework show and it is a party on a beach, which really is a Full Moon Party. This would be higher on the list if it were not so expensive and seeming so crowded.

4.  Retro Party: A "Fire and Ice" themed, boast of a good firework viewing of Darling Harbour and the city - note it is similar to #5. The VIP has access to the roof top, snacks, open bar with beer, vodka and soda till midnight. This could be a free party but when is free there is no roof top access or firework view. Note the free aspect could make it kind of crappy and extremely crowded.

5. Hedkandi Party: Has a few levels of tickets, boast of over 14 artist on two levels and harbourside to see the fireworks. It is "White Party" theme which could be fun. Tries to be an oasis and has an outside area. The VIP packages vary with a side area, snacks and access to the bar.

I am starting to lean towards #1 but it is very hard for me to choose... so many good options! Any opinions? I would love to hear them and yes I do now have to worry about a budget (GRR!).

Above the clouds in a Balloon

 I try to live life by the bull horns so to speak, and often just want to look out at the world. That is hard to do when you are walking on it. I fly, but it is hard to see when you are looking out at a small window. This is how my dream of flying in a hot air was born.

 

Watching the balloons fill up was actually kinda cool, it was interesting to find out that Balloons Above The Valley ran some of the largest balloons in the nation. They looked so nice next to each other as they fill up.

 Then it was our balloon "Freedom's" turn, and in moments it was up right. Then the organizers are hustling us into the balloon and with in the minute we are being lifted slowly.

Once in the air, it hardly felt like we were moving. You were just suddenly aware of the difference in height and spent most of the time looking around every which way. The views are amazing, it is a completely different view of Napa Valley.

  

Lucky for me, my hunny has a great eye and took some incredible pictures, all of which are included in here. We did manage to get someone in the balloon to take a picture of us. Then it was back to the views!

 Our company was not the only one who was out there, there was a bit of traffic. Seeing balloons fly around us was majestically. The whole ride puts the world and yourself in perspective. More often than not, it was just serene.

Other than when the flame was going on, the balloon ride was really quiet. There was no noise or pressure, it was not even cold for being 7AM! Yet before anyone was ready, our pilot Scott was looking for a place to land.

Then, sadly we are on the ground and the balloon is being deflated. Which is more fun to watch than when it was inflated, since we were closer. I liked seeing the silk move and fold in upon itself. After, we were escorted back to the hotel where we got to enjoy a champagne brunch!

Natasha's Grad Party

This party was amazing, a splendid affair. It would not have happened without the hard work of my beloved parents. I am so lucky to have them as my folks, they are so hip and are truly my best friends. They took such time, planning and good care for this party. They really handled everything. Mom spent the week before cooking and Dad spent it working on finishing the backyard landscape project.Boy did it turn out well. All the neighbors aka my Aunts and Uncles came out and stayed a long while. It was great to see my adoptive family the neighborhood that took care of me as a kid. They were shocked to see the change in the backyard.My crew started showing up and soon the party was on. Mr. AA was taking pictures which I cannot wait to see, specially if I have to wait for him to take it. My girls are posing away as the guys don't really care. Half the time the guy's don't even know it's happening like Mr. AS, one of the two Mr. A's.
We had a bit of name repetition, cause Ms. CW and CG came together and my friend from UO Ms. N, yes I have a friend with the same name came too. Thus in all their were two Mr. A, Ms. C, and of course Ms. N... making it a fun night. Of course from early one Ms. V was a show stopper and caught everyone's eye. Yet in general the party was hip to casual dressy. Plus they were smart and carpooled, Ms. K (who helped with pictures) brought Ms. C and her bf Mr. L.

My girls really had a ball (I am pretty sure), the only thing missing half the time was myself! I have to say I didn't get to spend nearly enough time with my friends. I assumed everyone would come to my house for the after party and thus spent the time trying to mingle with my friends of family and family who I see less often.
Granted in some cases I think the fact that I was not there 24/7 is a good thing. I missed out on some of the crazy antics that would have probably made me roll my eyes or even stress me out. Here I am promising that my friends are grown up enough and telling my friends that their kids cannot come. Why? I've Ms.J licking Ms. A or pretending to... hmm.
Then of course there is this random bit. I have to say getting to see parts of my party that I wasn't around for later is quite interesting. It wasn't so hot to need shorts, so is this their goofball attempt at sex appeal?

During all of this I am talking and catching up with my "family". Granted a lot of the time I was chained to the door. It seemed like any time I'd venture away it would ring and I was greeting another guest. Not a bad thing at all!
I would get out over to the corner that my group claimed as their own. When I did finally get there it was fun to chat with my friends. Honestly I kept getting stolen away by one of my girls and then by one of the adults or the door. People were constantly coming and going. Yet I kept up on my friends, making sure they had food and drinks. To the point that Ms. J started calling me "Stepford". Cute, very cute. That didn't stop my crew, they all had a good time mingling together. The adults thought that they would mingle when they ran out of wine. Not until the cold forced everyone inside did the two groups start to merge.
The server's were on top of it and brought the group their own bottles of wine. I mean why get up when you can have it with you? Smart servers, this is why you get help cause otherwise you spend the whole party going nuts. I was already going nuts trying to keep track of who came and went.
The party kept going on successfully, it helped in some ways that so many of my friends and family had Murphy on their case and missed it. Yet honestly it would have been better to have them their and their presence is missed. Plus that the crowd wasn't starving or really planning on drinking, we were totally covered! Heck we were overboard. Thus as the night went on and we migrated inside my parents toasted and then I spoke myself, thanking everyone and enjoying the mushy moment.When I had planned this party I knew my Uncle R and his family might be coming into town. Sure as luck would have it they did! It was amazing to have actual family around. I had not seen them in about ten years. Thus these young adults were kids as was myself when I last saw them! It was great to catch up with them and even get to know my cousins.As the music got better I kicked off my shoes and started to really dance. Granted getting pulled into conversations left and right. Did I say it was amazing having friends all around? It really was a kick to see them all in the house I grew up on finally getting to mingle with each other.The one on one time or watching friends catch up and mingle together was priceless. I loved that I could get friends that rarely could hang out, together. I have to admit though my girls who usually were always out on the dance floor were all hanging back.
Really had to force everyone on the floor and hustle them out there. Otherwise they were starting to once again settle into the comfy niche. This is a party, there is no parking! It is about mingling and mixing it up with different people. Then continuing to dance on and be merry for the rest of the night. Once they started to dance, well then things went off. Heck a conga line broke out and it was kinda ridiculous. I grabbed on the the camera man Mr. A and he tried to get away as the line behind him grew. LOL!Soon everyone is cutting a rug and my parents are starting to mingle a bit more with my friends. This just makes me happy. Everyone is having fun and dancing, my parents get to put faces to the names finally. I am surrounded by people I love and that love me back.
I am surrounded by people I love and that love me back. What more can I ask for? As people start to leave and everyone is getting their last rounds and its really just my friends I am surprised as my burn camp mate Mr. L pops in. It was a great surprise that he did that and I was so appreciative that he came out.
Finally I get to spend some time with my sweet guy and we get to dance a bit. Honestly we hardly spent a moment together. Just spent the whole party with friends and everyone there. I running around kinda crazy and he was holding his own. Never the less, it was great to get someone one on one time to celebrate.Then it was time to pack the car and boy did I have to pack the car! Since we over planned, I ended up taking half a case of sparkling California wine home (can we say another party?), not to mention some reds, whites from the party and that were gifts! Plus the balloons and the stuff I brought over, plus some food. Then of course all my flowers.
I mean FLOWERS! Ms. J got me red sunflowers and Ms. N red tipped roses, these two really went well together. Ms. Y, my guy's mom (Yes I know. Raise your brows at family meeting. Over it yet? Good) besides being brave and mingling fiercely, she got me this incredible orchid plant. I am going to work so hard to keep it alive as long as I can. Plus Ms. C and her guy not only got me a great bouquet that has an amazing, fragrant lily on top of one of my incredible gift bottles.
Days later my flowers are all going strong in looks and smell. I feel incredibly lucky and loved. Thank you again for the amazing memories. It was a wonderful event.