Big Fish

I've been spending my unexpected stay in the big city at a friend's place. She had a family event to attend for a few days, and asked me to watch her fish for her. She returned today and exclaimed that her fish were fat! Apparently, I've been overfeeding them. I've been informed that the fish only need a pinch of fish food once a day, not three times a day like I've been doing. I've never had to take care of any fish before, but seriously, how does one overfeed fish? Surely, they can't be that stupid to keep on eating when they're full.

There's a reason why I don't have pets. I suppose it's just as well that I don't have any pet fish. Then again, I don't have any real experience with fish, other than catching them and then eating them. I luv the taste of good fish. There's just something great about feasting on a moist, tender fish.

Unexpected

A lot of times, unexpected things happen in life. No matter how meticulous we make our plans, life has a way of grabbing those plans out of our hands, smacking us on the head with them, before ripping them up and throwing the pieces like confetti over our heads. But that's life, live and enjoy every moment, because you never know what's going to happen.

And as excited as I was to return home, I was alarmed to learn that someone I admire in the blogosphere has become very ill. I met WithinWithout, aka Chris, through the incredibly funny, witty, and smart and fabulous MJ during one of her visit a new blogger exercises. What I admire about him is his dedication and love for his kids. He reminds me that there are good fathers still out there, doing their best to raise their kids. And I love how he has forged a great relationship with his kids, letting each one become their own person, giving them guidance and support and the skills and values necessary to become great individuals.

I lost my father at a very young age; sometimes, I don't even remember what he looks like. So, I've always wondered what it would've been like to have a father growing up. Seeing dads out there doing a great job with their kids gets to me, makes me wistful and sad for what I lost, but also gives me hope and makes me smile, knowing that those kids are so lucky to have a father who loves them so much. Earlier this year, I lost my mother. It was quite strange not sending a Mother's Day card or gift to her this year. I was on vacation when I suddenly realized that it was Mother's Day, and then I wasn't quite sure how I felt when I remembered that I didn't have a mother anymore. It seems almost unreal that I have no parents in my life. So, I'm basically an orphan now, I'm on my own.

I'm hoping that WW makes a great recovery. Donn has set up a site to update us on WW's condition. I am hoping for the best. Whatever happens in the future, I want WW to know that I will be keeping him and his luved ones in my thoughts, and that if there is anything that I can do to help, I will gladly do so. Get well, soon, WW, because your family and friends really miss you.

Okay, so I was supposed to be home last week after returning from a vacation in Greece. But shortly after I arrived back in Texas, some unexpected things happened. A few friends, a good time, and some police were involved, all making for a memorable night--ending with me unable to drive home for a week or so. I'm still here in the big city, and most likely won't make it back home for a few more days...and that's all I can say...for now.

But, I can tell you that from my experience in Greece, the Greek people are really friendly people! They may drive like maniacs out of the Mad Max movies-traffic laws be damned-but they are such gracious, friendly people! The food was fantastic, and I was amazed by the many beautiful sights and beautiful people--not to mention my surprise at the number of nude statues and nekkid people! Only in Europe! And boy was I glad to have visited there!

Almost home

So, I got back on the 20th, about midnight Wednesday. It's the long holiday weekend here, and I'm sticking around for a few days visiting some friends before I take the long drive home. So, I'm on vacation wind down mode for a few more days.

I'll be around soon to visit y'all; I'm borrowing a friend's computer to do this post. I just wanted to thank everyone for the well wishes. It's good to be almost home. I've got lots of pictures to share and stories to tell. Have a great weekend everyone!

Cheers!

P.S. I finally found out that the Greeks pronounced gyro as in "yee-roh"...very delicious and tasty!

New Shoes

I've bought swimming shorts, t shirts, and luggage. I've bought travel wipes, kleenex, and sunscreen. I've restocked my personal hygiene bag and packed some pain relievers and first aid. But the one thing I had trouble tracking down was new shoes. Not just any new shoes, but beach sandals.

I spent a few days going from store to store, trying to find the right pair of beach sandals. But most of the beach wear consisted of slippers. I call them slippers because that's what they are, you slip them on your feet.

They are not thongs--those are underwear! And yes, you can wear those on the beach, just not on your feet. And they are not flip flops--that's a sexual activity, although that can be done at the beach, it wasn't exactly what I was looking for...

I had a hard time finding the beach sandals. I either didn't like the styles that the stores had or they just didn't have what I was looking for. Today, I finally found the perfect pair. It was exactly what I was looking for--rugged, comfortable, and perfect for beach and casual use. And it was pretty inexpensive, too, as they were on sale.



It's the last item I've packed. I'm ready for vacation now. And I can't wait!

Nu Shooz - I Can't Wait



I'll be missing y'all, and I wish y'all good health and much happiness while I'm gone. Take Care and Be Safe!

It's Greek to Me

I'm learning some useful Greek phrases to make my vacation to Greece enjoyable. Here's what I've learned so far.

Hello: Yia sas

Good Bye: Yia sas (I know! It's like aloha, hello and goodbye)

Thank you: Efharisto

You're Welcome: Parakalo

Excuse me: Me sinorhis/Parakalo

Please: Parakalo (How versatile is that parakalo?)

How are you: Ti kanis

I am fine: Ime kala

Yes: Ne

No: Ohi

Cheers: Is iyian

And of course, the tourist standards,

Where is the toilet: 1. Pou ine i toualetes 2. Toualleta

I love you: Saghapo

I think these few phrases are a good start. But I need help translating the most important phrase of all:






What's Greek for Boom Boom Boom let's go back to my room?

I've all ready started practicing my awesome 80s dance moves. All I need now are some white tight pants to complete my ensemble.



*Don't forget, if you'd like a postcard from Greece, email me your address at eroswings at gmail.com