"Life doesn't give you the people you want it gives you the people you need: to love you, to hate you, to make you, to break you & to make you the person you were meant to be."
Aaaaaah the joys of life and living on the edge. That would be what working for Disney Cruise Line was like. Everyday a new place every week or two new faces, new adventures, etc. I am really missingmy DCL time these days, even though this time last year I was very sad that I was going to be missing Christmas with my family. I've come to realize just how much DCL became a part of me and who I was.
Now I am on the hunt ...AGAIN. Lots of trials and tribulations in this job search. It's not easy and Lord knows I knew it wouldn't be, but I didn't expect this much trouble. Trying to stay positive in this trying time has been an ongoing battle in my head and my heart. I post quotes and ready positive stories to help keep me on the up and up. I am starting to lose my mind a bit and get a bit antsy with the family. Irritable might also be used to describe my mood from time to time. I don't want to say that I am depressed b/c I really don't think that I am. I think that I am sad that I can't seem to get anyone to believe in me as an individual. Companies that I know I am capable of working for Delta Air Lines for example say I don't meet the basic requirements...I've unofficially worked for Delta since I could remember my name. I know I can work and I know I am a GREAT worker. It is just a matter of time until I can get an employer to believe in me. This quote is something I am going to print out and post so that I have a basis for my positivity and focus.
“When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure” - Peter Marshall
Here's to ending the year on a good note (which I will) and to starting off 2012 on the right foot (which I will). Be positive and stay focused.
Love and laughter to you all.
Ash
Monday, December 19, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
FRIENDSHIP
Just wanted to share how awesome my friends are!!
A dear friend of mine dropped me this message in my facebook mailbox.
"You keep popping up in my head, so this: You're amazing. You are a rock when nobody else is. I know that can be tiring, but what an awesome thing to be so super fucking good at. Even when you don't have your shit together, people think you've got your shit together. That's how good you are at being strong. I'm inspired by that in you, whether you see it in yourself or not. You're a strong bitch and i love you much."
In response to that friend... I love you much too! This journey I'm on has been an amazing one... so many ups and downs, so many twists and turns. I've found myself looking back and not questioning what I've done, but RELIVING some of those choices that I have made. Another great friend told me
"You keep doin fun stuff. I always found it more fun to do stuff that to have stuff....". I think he couldn't be more right... to do what I love and maybe not have a huge bank account is and will continue to be a great part of my life.
THANKS TO ALL MY FRIENDS ...you keep me going and make me laugh each and every day.
A dear friend of mine dropped me this message in my facebook mailbox.
"You keep popping up in my head, so this: You're amazing. You are a rock when nobody else is. I know that can be tiring, but what an awesome thing to be so super fucking good at. Even when you don't have your shit together, people think you've got your shit together. That's how good you are at being strong. I'm inspired by that in you, whether you see it in yourself or not. You're a strong bitch and i love you much."
In response to that friend... I love you much too! This journey I'm on has been an amazing one... so many ups and downs, so many twists and turns. I've found myself looking back and not questioning what I've done, but RELIVING some of those choices that I have made. Another great friend told me
"You keep doin fun stuff. I always found it more fun to do stuff that to have stuff....". I think he couldn't be more right... to do what I love and maybe not have a huge bank account is and will continue to be a great part of my life.
THANKS TO ALL MY FRIENDS ...you keep me going and make me laugh each and every day.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Bless Your Heart
<3 BLESS YOUR HEART <3
Sooooo...just got back from Boca Raton with the soccer people. As I said previously, it was a great decisionl Hated to miss the wedding but it was completely worth going. Met some great new family and picked up a ton of new facebook and twitter contacts (i.e. my 96 girls). At some point during the week, romance came up...they are 15 and 16 so put that into perspective, lol. It was one of the funniest conversations I have had in ages. What constitues "hanging out" and what constitutes "dating". You should be able to tell already that the convo was a good one. As almost always happens... they were nosy and all about my relationship status and who I am/was dating and all that. I obliged and shared information with them which they ate up.Throughout last week, they became my facebook friends and started to follow me on Twitter (Texash_1981). They facebook stalked me for a few days before we had this conversation. They were in my photos and all that goodness. While out for ice cream, they were having a hilarious discussion about the guys they were talking to or almost alking to. Then at some point they became interested in my situation.. According to them, my current friend is "hot" ... one of them told me "GIRL ... you did good!"
Sooooo...just got back from Boca Raton with the soccer people. As I said previously, it was a great decisionl Hated to miss the wedding but it was completely worth going. Met some great new family and picked up a ton of new facebook and twitter contacts (i.e. my 96 girls). At some point during the week, romance came up...they are 15 and 16 so put that into perspective, lol. It was one of the funniest conversations I have had in ages. What constitues "hanging out" and what constitutes "dating". You should be able to tell already that the convo was a good one. As almost always happens... they were nosy and all about my relationship status and who I am/was dating and all that. I obliged and shared information with them which they ate up.Throughout last week, they became my facebook friends and started to follow me on Twitter (Texash_1981). They facebook stalked me for a few days before we had this conversation. They were in my photos and all that goodness. While out for ice cream, they were having a hilarious discussion about the guys they were talking to or almost alking to. Then at some point they became interested in my situation.
I have a smile on my face as I type this. One: because they are right on both accounts... I did good and he is hot. Two: it was just fun to laugh with them and see life through the eyes of a 15 year old for a minute. THEN we got to talking about where everyone was from and we started Google earthing houses and all that. I had 1 from Oklahoma, 2 from Texas, 1 from South Carolina, 4 from FLorida, a few from Georgia and a ton from North Carolina. The NC and GA girls I would say were the most talkative so we started talking about where they lived and WHERE exactly some of those cities were. I was asked if I knew anyone in NC after I told them I knew people in Georgia and all of the other girls states. I told them I knew a few from Charlotte, and Raleigh area. WHERE!!!? Was the excited moment I got so I asked if any had heard of Eden and and Apex. "OF COURSE!!" ... i told them who I knew in Apex and Eden...they wanted to see pics of those people since they were ship friends and there had been a bit of envy about my ship life and travels, lol. My Apex friend who used to be known here as Mr. Disney looked way guido according to my girls... I'd have to agree at this point but ehhh who cares... they also put that whole time od my life into perspective very quickly. They asked why we broke up and I told them he said "the distance" and his dad wasn't a fan of my being black... "THAT'S STUPID! they said and also went on to say "We aren't all like that Ashley!". This coming from 15 year olds... I love it! Now I have the best of both worlds... a good guy who seems to REALLY care about me and can handle all this blackness (sorry that had to go in ...it makes me laugh... I'm only chocolate on the outside, lol.) AND I am getting ready to move to bigger and better things!
Hopefully I will get to see these girls again and will have more funny conversations about life, love and the pursuit of happiness according to the minds of 15/16 year olds.
Their week didn't go as expected on the soccer field...they were 0-3 but they did score some goals and meet a ton of new friends. Hopefully they will (At least some of them) get the call to go on their European trip and they will gel and score goals showing what they can really do. That's all for today. I'll leave ya with the following quote about perspective.
| Humor is perhaps a sense of intellectual perspective: an awareness that some things are really important, others not; and that the two kinds are most oddly jumbled in everyday affairs.” | |
Could this be right?!
November 27, 2011
-
Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Today, monumental goals suddenly feel more attainable than ever! You are so close you can nearly taste it, and your ambition is telling you to throw caution to the wind and just go for it! Welcome any disruptions to your routine with open arms -- because they are going to bring you fresh ideas, new adventures and funny people that will invigorate you and take you that last mile. This is the beginning of a new phase for you, in which your outlook is going to be much more positive.
I LOVE it when I get a good horoscope like this one. Hopefully it will hold true and I will make some great choices and moves in the near future! Don't have too much to share but this one was a must. Hope your last day of the Thanksgiving break is a great one!
Saturday, November 26, 2011
good stuff
Had a great week with my #blessyourheart Region III 96 Girls ODP team. Playing wise they had a rough week but it was fun to get away and watch some soccer. Met some new people and am now REALLY happy with the choice I made to head out to Boca. Makes me miss playing and miss watching more soccer. I didn't get out enough to do that this fall considering I was home. I will make it a point to get bck to what I really love to do. Come hell or high water I will make sure that this year is a new beginning to do what I really WANT to do.
That is all...no doubt about it.
That is all...no doubt about it.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
FRIENDS OR NOT?!
Had to make the crappy CHOICE to miss a dear friends wedding... had to go make some $$$ but it made me think again about my lovely life and the choices that one has to make along the way.
I am in Boca Raton, FL... i know be jealous, the weather has been pretty great... i'm with new soccer family doing one of hte thins i love most in this world... watching soccer. I am however a little saddened that I am not going to be celebrating the holiday with my family... I had to make a choice. This time $$$$ won out over family and friends. I had a moment where I felt as though I was being selfish for choosing to make some money over choosing to be with my family. THEN, I realized that my family loves me no matter what I am doing or where I am. That leads me to look at those that I surround myself with, those that I call my FAMILY.
That's what the old saying says. I have some people,(one person) that I keep trying to call my friend who keep showing me that they are not only not a friend but not interested in being my friend. Why do I continue to try to be in contact? Is it me being an idiot b/c I am friends with all of those people who are or were a part of my life in that way? I don't get it but at least I am over it and that person. I have reached out the olive branch AGAIN to this person ... think (actually I KNOW) I will be okay either way. I have a new person who more than fills the void left my my absentee FRIEND. It's important to surround yourself with people that treat you with respect, communicate with you, and overall LOVE/LIKE you as a person People who want the best for you. People who make you a better version of you. The song quote below sums up how a friend should make you feel as well.
"Even if we never talk again after tonight, please remember that I am forever changed by who you are and what you meant to me"
-Chasing Amy
At least for me an actual friend ALWAYS impacts your life whether for the good or bad... they always leave a mark and you cannot change that.
Sometimes it's weird I think... I'm 30 I should be grown up and have no problems... you think all sorts of crazy things like that when you are younger. Now I'm thinking I hope I can control all of these interesting things that life is throwing at me and do it with some sort of grace and class. Do it in a way that makes me feel great first off and in the best way possible for the best possible outcome. For the record, I realize that 30 is not the end of lifes growing pains. I'm growing (hopefully just spiritually and mentally, not physically) each day and look forward to what life has in store for me. If you know of a job that migt have in store for me, let me know. Going a bit crazy without something to do daily.
Anywho...it's 5am and I'm up for no reason but to write this I guess. I'm goin to try to get back to sleep before my 8:30 am breakfast call.
I leave you with another quote on choices as I always do...
I am in Boca Raton, FL... i know be jealous, the weather has been pretty great... i'm with new soccer family doing one of hte thins i love most in this world... watching soccer. I am however a little saddened that I am not going to be celebrating the holiday with my family... I had to make a choice. This time $$$$ won out over family and friends. I had a moment where I felt as though I was being selfish for choosing to make some money over choosing to be with my family. THEN, I realized that my family loves me no matter what I am doing or where I am. That leads me to look at those that I surround myself with, those that I call my FAMILY.
You can choose your friends but you can't choose your family.
"Even if we never talk again after tonight, please remember that I am forever changed by who you are and what you meant to me"
-Chasing Amy
At least for me an actual friend ALWAYS impacts your life whether for the good or bad... they always leave a mark and you cannot change that.
Sometimes it's weird I think... I'm 30 I should be grown up and have no problems... you think all sorts of crazy things like that when you are younger. Now I'm thinking I hope I can control all of these interesting things that life is throwing at me and do it with some sort of grace and class. Do it in a way that makes me feel great first off and in the best way possible for the best possible outcome. For the record, I realize that 30 is not the end of lifes growing pains. I'm growing (hopefully just spiritually and mentally, not physically) each day and look forward to what life has in store for me. If you know of a job that migt have in store for me, let me know. Going a bit crazy without something to do daily.
Anywho...it's 5am and I'm up for no reason but to write this I guess. I'm goin to try to get back to sleep before my 8:30 am breakfast call.
I leave you with another quote on choices as I always do...
Sunday, November 20, 2011
I'M 30! YEAH BUDDY!
It was my birthday week!!
Can you believe it I made it to 30!
Got a bit nostalgic for a moment, but all in all a great day and a great week. The only thing that could have made my birthday better was having my dad there. Since that was impossible... it was the best birthday.
My weekend was great... stayed at an AMAZING hotel with my guy and spent the weekend doing what I wanted to do.
Can you believe it I made it to 30!
Got a bit nostalgic for a moment, but all in all a great day and a great week. The only thing that could have made my birthday better was having my dad there. Since that was impossible... it was the best birthday.
My weekend was great... stayed at an AMAZING hotel with my guy and spent the weekend doing what I wanted to do.
Friday, November 18, 2011
PSU- sucks to be them
So I thought since EVERYONE and their mom is talking about the Penn St thing...I'd go ahead and talk about it too. After all it's the choices that the people involved have made that have affected (Adversely in most cases) their lives.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Choices are hard to make sometimes...
Choices are hard to make sometimes...
Where to go, what to wear, who to love, why to do this and why to do that...and so on and so forth.
Why is there so much pressure to make the right choices, have the right job, meet the right guy? I am at a point in life where I am making choices that could (let's be real, that are going to) change my life forever.
LIFE/LOVE AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS.
We'll start with life:
Here's a quote to get me started on life choices - “No one else can ever make your choices for you. Your choices are yours alone. They are as much a part of you as every breath you will take, every moment of your life.”
Job Applications: Why are they so tedious? You have a resume for a reason but you never REALLY get to use it. Once you open the apps, you have to reinvent the wheel and re-copy all of your information even though it's all together already on your resume... no frustrations here about that at all.
What about applying for those jobs that you feel like you are a shoe in for and then you get the automated email or confirmation that "we appreciate your interest, however we have decided to go in another direction" OR you don't hear back at all! Again, NOT frustrated at all with the happenings.
Love and the Pursuit of Happiness-
WOW what a year for all of the above...
Life has definitely been a roller coaster ride this past 11 months ( I can't believe it's November already!). This time last year I was on vacation from the Disney Wonder and looking forward to all that she had to offer me. Little did I know that included a transfer or two, a great love in my life and a great loss in my life. I learned so so much about myself in my year and a bit working for the mouse. I learned that I enjoy being away... I miss my family when I am away...I am extremely emotional...I am ready to REALLY settle down and find Mr. Right and the great career that has eluded me for such a long time. Actually I can't say that it has eluded me, I think I have been running away from my life here in Dallas. Even when I was here in Dallas, I think I was running away. Now I am not particular about what city I work in but would like to find something that truly makes me happy.
Things will settle and I will be good. Nothing in life is ever promised but I think there are some things that might be I O Ued. I made that word up but it works for me at this point, lol.
Anywho, life is full of choices as I'll continue to discuss some of these fun choices as I encounter them. LOVE YOU ALL AND HOPE THAT MY STORY WILL CONTINUE TO INSPIRE/ENTERTAIN YOU!
One last quote for the day!
“Choosing to live your life by your own choice is the greatest freedom you will ever have.”
Where to go, what to wear, who to love, why to do this and why to do that...and so on and so forth.
Why is there so much pressure to make the right choices, have the right job, meet the right guy? I am at a point in life where I am making choices that could (let's be real, that are going to) change my life forever.
LIFE/LOVE AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS.
We'll start with life:
Here's a quote to get me started on life choices - “No one else can ever make your choices for you. Your choices are yours alone. They are as much a part of you as every breath you will take, every moment of your life.”
Job Applications: Why are they so tedious? You have a resume for a reason but you never REALLY get to use it. Once you open the apps, you have to reinvent the wheel and re-copy all of your information even though it's all together already on your resume... no frustrations here about that at all.
What about applying for those jobs that you feel like you are a shoe in for and then you get the automated email or confirmation that "we appreciate your interest, however we have decided to go in another direction" OR you don't hear back at all! Again, NOT frustrated at all with the happenings.
Love and the Pursuit of Happiness-
WOW what a year for all of the above...
Life has definitely been a roller coaster ride this past 11 months ( I can't believe it's November already!). This time last year I was on vacation from the Disney Wonder and looking forward to all that she had to offer me. Little did I know that included a transfer or two, a great love in my life and a great loss in my life. I learned so so much about myself in my year and a bit working for the mouse. I learned that I enjoy being away... I miss my family when I am away...I am extremely emotional...I am ready to REALLY settle down and find Mr. Right and the great career that has eluded me for such a long time. Actually I can't say that it has eluded me, I think I have been running away from my life here in Dallas. Even when I was here in Dallas, I think I was running away. Now I am not particular about what city I work in but would like to find something that truly makes me happy.
Things will settle and I will be good. Nothing in life is ever promised but I think there are some things that might be I O Ued. I made that word up but it works for me at this point, lol.
Anywho, life is full of choices as I'll continue to discuss some of these fun choices as I encounter them. LOVE YOU ALL AND HOPE THAT MY STORY WILL CONTINUE TO INSPIRE/ENTERTAIN YOU!
One last quote for the day!
“Choosing to live your life by your own choice is the greatest freedom you will ever have.”
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
North Carolina or San Antonio? A Wedding for a dear friend or a contract job?
Man is life full of choices! EVERY freakin day... we are faced with a choice, go left, go right...go work or don't go to work . Some of lifes choices are mundane and simple, others are complex and life altering.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
IPOD/NEW COMPUTER/SAVINGS...CHOICES, CHOICES, CHOICES
Okay so if you know me, you know that I am calamity Jane reincarnated. If it CAN happen it WILL happen to me. Here's what the dealio is now though. If you've been in touch with me at all, you know that I have dropped my newish IPOD in a cup of tea and no matter the amount of rice or any home remedies that were suggested the bugger just would not work.I've also beaten this computer up a bit and it could use a bit of a break, i.e. be the home computer. SO... now I'm left with a choice. I would like to get a new IPOD or.... maybe a new computer. I will continue to put the pennies that I make in savings either way but the choice is which to purchase. I have this laptop that I am writng on but it's a bit bulky. I can get a new small laptop from Gateway for 239 or something like that. I can get a new IPOD 160 GB for 250... i need my music to work out... i also love it when I'm on these long drives that I've been taking so frequently.
These choices seem so trivial at the moment but they are choices nontheless.
These choices seem so trivial at the moment but they are choices nontheless.
To leave or not to leave...that is the question
The common thing that I hear from friends and former peers (especially in the cruise industry) ... I would leave but am I going to be able to find a job? We all come to a point in life when we must take a look at what we are doing and decide if it is what we REALLY want to be doing. Does it make us HAPPY? What's NEXT?
Our parents and grandparents come from an age of working for one company for their ENTIRE career. Why can't we or don't we do the same? Is it a societal pressure or an indpendence instilled in us by our parents? We are given the CHOICE to move to a different place and to find our happy place that our parents maybe didn't have. Our parents...did they make it work OR are we not loyal to the companies that we work for?
CHOICES... CHOICES
Our parents and grandparents come from an age of working for one company for their ENTIRE career. Why can't we or don't we do the same? Is it a societal pressure or an indpendence instilled in us by our parents? We are given the CHOICE to move to a different place and to find our happy place that our parents maybe didn't have. Our parents...did they make it work OR are we not loyal to the companies that we work for?
CHOICES... CHOICES
| “Our choices in life are made according to our sense of our own worth” | |
Friday, October 7, 2011
Choosing to come back to this blog and make it what I want...
Where did the first post go?
Let's talk about why my first post seems to have gone missing! It was a good one and now I can't find it for the life of me.
I have made a number of choices since last writing but am hopeful that I can make some great decisions in the near future to continue my path in life. I will write more later this evening but man... there seems to be so so much to say.
Get back to you in a few!
ash
I have made a number of choices since last writing but am hopeful that I can make some great decisions in the near future to continue my path in life. I will write more later this evening but man... there seems to be so so much to say.
Get back to you in a few!
ash
| There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist, or accept the responsibility for changing them.” | |
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
New blog The Journey of a Million Choices... Go check it out! http://thejourneyofamillionchoices.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 19, 2011
It all goes back to choices...
Welcome, welcome ,welcome to my blog with no restrictions. What I've come to realize in the past year is that I am a completely changed person. All of the choices that I have made in my life have changed me especially in this past year. I learned from the Mouse to hold fast in my beliefs...WORK hard, PLAY hard and yes, yes, yes... LOVE hard too. I have done all of those things and since coming back from Mickey's house boat (aka Disney Cruise Line) I have made a point to do things that I truly want to. Do I want to drive to Houston for a 90 minute game? Yes...got in my car and did it. Do I want to drive to Waco with my mom and niece to watch the game? Yes... we went road trippin'! All were simple choices that I made in my own way.
Now I am looking at the choices that I have for my future. What jobs are out there for me? What do I really want to do? What is my passion? How do I get there? As this blog grows...you will see travel choices, life choices and so much more. I hope you come along with me to learn something each and every week!
<><>
Monday, September 12, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
A change is gonna come....
July 7th, 2011
Alright alright, it’s been a few days since I last wrote. In my defense I’m trying to acclimate to the my surroundings, the time change and my work space. I DID however complete a couple of video blogs that should be posted on the right side of this page or on my YouTube channel. I’m getting comfy with my roomie who we’ll call Richmond…she’s a Richmond grad so we’ll go with that. She’s a bit of a spreader of her things but we’ve gotten past her specialness for the most part with all other issues gone. So Bibbiana and I went with Taj to see some of the Rome history… it was AMAZING. That was the last time I got off the ship but I have truly enjoyed the view from the ship the past few days.
Can’t wait for this cruise to be over… special is the term that I would use for it. I’m going to be jamming to Jimmy Cliff’s “I can see clearly now the Rain is gone”. The rain so to speak would be the guests on this cruise. Whew… new peeps yahoo!!! I might be singing a different tune at the end of the evening tomorrow but right now I’m ready for Med cruise 1 to be done!
I took a great nap this afternoon and Bibby and I are headed out for a bit this evening. Not too late though because I would like to head to be and be able to be fresh at work in the morning. Going to go to the helm sometime tomorrow I think and look at some books to check out and/or read. I can’t wait to learn something new here. Senor and some peeps are headed to Camp Nau tomorrow…a bit sad I can’t go but man it’s going to be amazing for them. I think my word of the day is AMAZING, I keep using it so I’m going to own it. Anywho, sites and sounds of Europe are amazing. We took the subway in Rome… felt a lot like NYC… a bit cleaner I suppose but NYC none the less. Got lost on a commuter train …didn’t know where the hell we were. That was fun. Taj and Bibby and I were walking back and forth. Taj dropped her shot glass that she bought which sucks so she’ll have to get another Roma shot glass. The Trevi fountain was also pretty amazing. When I walked through the buildings and saw it… words escape me for the first impression. The intricate carvings of the statues and the movement of the water…breathtaking...the ambiance; I do believe I got a little teary while there. The realization of a life long dream is something I don’t think I was ready for. New Adventures: No Regrets!
-Ashley
Monday, June 27, 2011
I'm leavin on a jet plane... but I'll be back in mid october
this should be interesting... stay tuned friends... magic in the med!!
Friday, June 24, 2011
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Last friday here in Dallas... it's interesting how much you start to miss home when you are about to leave. Here are some things that I will miss about my hometown and my home state.
1) family and friends
2) long drives to nowhere - even though gas is really high
3)driving in general blaring my music with the windows down.
4) Seeing how proud we Texans are about our state and our flag.
5)road trips to oklahoma, austin, san antonio... so many places to go in Texas it's AMAZING!
6) swimming pretty much everyday
7) laying out on my trampoline and finding reasons for the twins to not jump so i can stay out longer
8)drinking my huge glass of sweet tea
9) playing with my puppies Darby and Peanut
10) FINALLY... i'll just miss it b/c it's home at the moment.
On that note...
I was recently challenged by someone that I would never leave Texas. I don't necessarily think that's true. A few years ago I would have told you that you were absolutely correct. Now, recently...I've done things and gone places I never thought I would have. I'd challenge any state to capture my heart the way that the Lonestar state has but like Justin Beiber says "Never say Never".( I can't believe I just referenced Justin Beiber!) I hope to settle down in a state that I can call home. That state could be my home state or it could be any other for that matter. Home is where your heart is...family is my heart. The idea of family is fluid at this moment. I have family in Texas, family in Los Angeles, family in the Mediterranean, family in Alaska. Those are the families that really matter to me. I hope all of my family are having great days and nights and I look forward to continued goodness to share with all of you!
What I am asking all of you to hold me to is my 2011 motto: NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS...it's served me well so far but man it is a mantra that has been put to the test this week.
Fathers Day...lost glasses, broken computer, broken heart, empty wallet... man oh man there have been some long, long days in this week but I have had the best supporters that a girl could have... my mom and my girls...
life is a journey, not a destination... you might as well enjoy the journey.
-ash
1) family and friends
2) long drives to nowhere - even though gas is really high
3)driving in general blaring my music with the windows down.
4) Seeing how proud we Texans are about our state and our flag.
5)road trips to oklahoma, austin, san antonio... so many places to go in Texas it's AMAZING!
6) swimming pretty much everyday
7) laying out on my trampoline and finding reasons for the twins to not jump so i can stay out longer
8)drinking my huge glass of sweet tea
9) playing with my puppies Darby and Peanut
10) FINALLY... i'll just miss it b/c it's home at the moment.
On that note...
I was recently challenged by someone that I would never leave Texas. I don't necessarily think that's true. A few years ago I would have told you that you were absolutely correct. Now, recently...I've done things and gone places I never thought I would have. I'd challenge any state to capture my heart the way that the Lonestar state has but like Justin Beiber says "Never say Never".( I can't believe I just referenced Justin Beiber!) I hope to settle down in a state that I can call home. That state could be my home state or it could be any other for that matter. Home is where your heart is...family is my heart. The idea of family is fluid at this moment. I have family in Texas, family in Los Angeles, family in the Mediterranean, family in Alaska. Those are the families that really matter to me. I hope all of my family are having great days and nights and I look forward to continued goodness to share with all of you!
What I am asking all of you to hold me to is my 2011 motto: NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS...it's served me well so far but man it is a mantra that has been put to the test this week.
Fathers Day...lost glasses, broken computer, broken heart, empty wallet... man oh man there have been some long, long days in this week but I have had the best supporters that a girl could have... my mom and my girls...
life is a journey, not a destination... you might as well enjoy the journey.
-ash
The Time is Near....
The Time is Near....
Man oh man... I've had a crazy few days. You know when you are bored as all get out but don't have anyone or anything to blame but yourself. That's me at the moment. I have one weekend left. ONLY ONE. It seems like the last 8 weeks have gone by so fast but at the same time I know it's gone by at a snail's pace. I debarked the Wonder 8 weeks ago as a worker, got right back on - cruised for 7 days as a guest and then went on my own for the remaining 6 weeks.
Vacation wise... i was addicted to facebook which is never good and i hung out at the house...laying on the couch, cleaning my spaces, working out and trying to enjoy the family as much as possible.
Since starting as Youth Activities Manager at Disney Cruise Lines a year ago this week ... I have lost 20 pounds. I know it's kind of crazy since I haven't really been working out. I work a lot and then my eating habits are less crazy. Can you imagine what I can do if I actually work out on the ship? I am really, really going to try to make time to workout. I do love it and it does make me feel really really good. Even if I only walk deck 4 everyday...maybe a mile or 2 that is going to be great. My health is important to me so I am gong to pay even more attention to it while i'm on contract #3. Can you believe it contract #3...who would have thought I would be here...it's almost a year ago to the day exactly that I started working and I love it now more than ever.
Why do I love it you ask?
1)Travel - how can you not love waking up in a new place everyday?
2)People - I have met some of the most amazing people and they are from all corners of the world. Again, what's not to love?
3)Kids - working with kids has always been a passion of mine
4) DISNEY - it's Disney... I have always loved Disney...enough said!
UPDATE:
There will be some serious droughts in this blog again... my hard drive is broken on my laptop. I will be borrowing my roommates and friends until the Disney Magic returns to her home port of Port Canaveral. There will be some changes as well. I am going to utilize my flip camera more if possible and will also NOT be talking about Mr. Disney at all...that ship has sailed and by sailed I don't mean gone away...it's on a private tour so to speak. All I will say is that you will hear about my ship life and my experiences up high and some down low...not all of my experiences need to be shared here.
I am super excited to return to the ship. The Med awaits in all it's glory. It's been the kind of vacation where I need to get my brain back active and get my body back in the swing of things. I will be losing 7 hours when I fly to Barcelona on Monday. I leave Dallas 4:30pm on Monday ...arrive in Frankfurt at 9:30am and then fly to Barcelona at 1:30pm. Then... from what I understand I have to get up at the crack of dawn on Wednesday to be on my way to the ship at 5:30am or something like that. CRAZY TIME! INSANE! Anyway, to those of you that I have missed while I was at home...I'm sorry. I'll catch you in October! There might be tons of changes for me at this point but I'm going to continue to be ALONG FORTHE RIDE, trying to live my life with NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS.
I'll see ya around on the water!
Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!
- Ashley
Man oh man... I've had a crazy few days. You know when you are bored as all get out but don't have anyone or anything to blame but yourself. That's me at the moment. I have one weekend left. ONLY ONE. It seems like the last 8 weeks have gone by so fast but at the same time I know it's gone by at a snail's pace. I debarked the Wonder 8 weeks ago as a worker, got right back on - cruised for 7 days as a guest and then went on my own for the remaining 6 weeks.
Vacation wise... i was addicted to facebook which is never good and i hung out at the house...laying on the couch, cleaning my spaces, working out and trying to enjoy the family as much as possible.
Since starting as Youth Activities Manager at Disney Cruise Lines a year ago this week ... I have lost 20 pounds. I know it's kind of crazy since I haven't really been working out. I work a lot and then my eating habits are less crazy. Can you imagine what I can do if I actually work out on the ship? I am really, really going to try to make time to workout. I do love it and it does make me feel really really good. Even if I only walk deck 4 everyday...maybe a mile or 2 that is going to be great. My health is important to me so I am gong to pay even more attention to it while i'm on contract #3. Can you believe it contract #3...who would have thought I would be here...it's almost a year ago to the day exactly that I started working and I love it now more than ever.
Why do I love it you ask?
1)Travel - how can you not love waking up in a new place everyday?
2)People - I have met some of the most amazing people and they are from all corners of the world. Again, what's not to love?
3)Kids - working with kids has always been a passion of mine
4) DISNEY - it's Disney... I have always loved Disney...enough said!
UPDATE:
There will be some serious droughts in this blog again... my hard drive is broken on my laptop. I will be borrowing my roommates and friends until the Disney Magic returns to her home port of Port Canaveral. There will be some changes as well. I am going to utilize my flip camera more if possible and will also NOT be talking about Mr. Disney at all...that ship has sailed and by sailed I don't mean gone away...it's on a private tour so to speak. All I will say is that you will hear about my ship life and my experiences up high and some down low...not all of my experiences need to be shared here.
I am super excited to return to the ship. The Med awaits in all it's glory. It's been the kind of vacation where I need to get my brain back active and get my body back in the swing of things. I will be losing 7 hours when I fly to Barcelona on Monday. I leave Dallas 4:30pm on Monday ...arrive in Frankfurt at 9:30am and then fly to Barcelona at 1:30pm. Then... from what I understand I have to get up at the crack of dawn on Wednesday to be on my way to the ship at 5:30am or something like that. CRAZY TIME! INSANE! Anyway, to those of you that I have missed while I was at home...I'm sorry. I'll catch you in October! There might be tons of changes for me at this point but I'm going to continue to be ALONG FORTHE RIDE, trying to live my life with NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS.
I'll see ya around on the water!
Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!
- Ashley
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Home at Last…or at least visiting for a while
So I’m home and have been for a few days now. Long few days…let me tell you about all the fun that I have had since coming back. There have been tears, indecision, waits, shopping, new shoes, new phone, phone conversations, vacation planning and a few good parties. I’ve also been a bit narcoleptic since arriving back in the Big D. I am wide awake until 6 am some nights and sleep until 11am. Life is a bit crazy but fun all at the same time. So, let’s start with the actual embark day. Did I mention that my mom called me on May 2nd and was still in Dallas when we were getting ready to leave Victoria and get to Vancouver where she was supposed to meet the ship starting at 11:45am. I called her and she called me back and told me. I happened to be shopping with crazy Alli (from NC) and trying to get back to the ship without being left or getting in trouble. Alli was a GOD send in that moment. She was extremely positive and sent up a prayer asking for my mom to get to the ship on time. I was in a serious funk at the thought of her not getting to Vancouver. I had been waiting for 4 months to see my mom and we were so close…oh so close. Got back to work and was quiet so I guess that gave my mood away to everyone…I started crying in the office and ended up going down stairs to try to get myself together. Disney came down to see what was wrong after having asked me on my way out of the space and my giving the “I’m fine” response. I saw him and lost it completely… I think I had been holding it in for a while and he has a way of comforting me that I can’t explain. When I’m having a bad day he knows how to put a smile on my face or just let me be, he knows when to put me in my place, he makes me laugh when I need it, he makes me think about things when I should and he just flat out gets me. I think our issue has been caring too much when we know our situation is complicated. I’m on the Magic and he’s on the Wonder and he’s trying to get to the Dream. I want him to come to the Magic … hmmmm have to see how to make some of that goodness happen.
My horoscope for the few days after we got home was this:
Horoscope May 13th
It’s easy to beat yourself up if you feel as if you and your sweetheart aren’t syncing up. It’s no one’s fault — it’s the current circumstances. Every relationship has its own rhythm. The wheel will turn eventually.
Soooooooo…what do you think that means?
Cruise time came…Momma Hamilton got to Vancouver and boarded the Disney Wonder to cruise her 1st Disney Cruise and her first trip to Alaska. She was rip roaring ready to go after having met our TPM Edgar in transit to the ship. She talked about me and what I do on the ship with Edgar who didn’t realize that he knew the person that she was talking about. We saw him frequently throughout the cruise and it was really cool that he would step aside when possible to say hello. We truly are an OHANA here at Disney. My mom enjoyed seeing the space that I work in and truly enjoyed meeting my AMAZING WONDERFAM… She kept telling me” I see why you love it here”…what can I say for every special person there are 5 awesome people. She has not had the pleasure of meeting my Magic fam yet but that will come when we are completing the Western Transatlantic.
Went through US customs at the airport TWICE after missing my Delta flight with my mom. Had to go back through Canadian customs and find my luggage and then had to go through the US customs line again once I went through US Airways check-in. It was quite a day… looooooooong day if you ask me. I had an AMAZING cruise… sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord, exploring Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan with my mom. There are pictures to be seen and stories to be told of the last Frontier or whatever they call Alaska. I could totally live in Juneau or Ketchikan in the summer time. It is God’s country up there… gorgeous and worth the trip if you ask me. I gave my mom the cruise for mothers day and hope that she had a great time…I’ve been joking with her that this should up my birthday points right?
Mr. Disney and I have decided to make a go of it… stay tuned for future fun… NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS … right?! Seems to be happening so far this year.
-ash
My horoscope for the few days after we got home was this:
Horoscope May 13th
It’s easy to beat yourself up if you feel as if you and your sweetheart aren’t syncing up. It’s no one’s fault — it’s the current circumstances. Every relationship has its own rhythm. The wheel will turn eventually.
Soooooooo…what do you think that means?
Cruise time came…Momma Hamilton got to Vancouver and boarded the Disney Wonder to cruise her 1st Disney Cruise and her first trip to Alaska. She was rip roaring ready to go after having met our TPM Edgar in transit to the ship. She talked about me and what I do on the ship with Edgar who didn’t realize that he knew the person that she was talking about. We saw him frequently throughout the cruise and it was really cool that he would step aside when possible to say hello. We truly are an OHANA here at Disney. My mom enjoyed seeing the space that I work in and truly enjoyed meeting my AMAZING WONDERFAM… She kept telling me” I see why you love it here”…what can I say for every special person there are 5 awesome people. She has not had the pleasure of meeting my Magic fam yet but that will come when we are completing the Western Transatlantic.
Went through US customs at the airport TWICE after missing my Delta flight with my mom. Had to go back through Canadian customs and find my luggage and then had to go through the US customs line again once I went through US Airways check-in. It was quite a day… looooooooong day if you ask me. I had an AMAZING cruise… sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord, exploring Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan with my mom. There are pictures to be seen and stories to be told of the last Frontier or whatever they call Alaska. I could totally live in Juneau or Ketchikan in the summer time. It is God’s country up there… gorgeous and worth the trip if you ask me. I gave my mom the cruise for mothers day and hope that she had a great time…I’ve been joking with her that this should up my birthday points right?
Mr. Disney and I have decided to make a go of it… stay tuned for future fun… NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS … right?! Seems to be happening so far this year.
-ash
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Burrrr it's cold up here!
Okay so it’s been WEEKS maybe even a month since I wrote in my blog. I am officially on vacation and my MOM is here!! Yay for cruising to Alaska and YAY for family time! I’ve missed this for months now. Not that my wonder and Magic fams don’t fit the bill but nothing can replace my mom. I’ve been so many places since I last wrote. Surfing in Cabo with our teens, tanning and just walking in Puerto Vallarta and sunning on a sea day. I’ve been to a Rangers game in Oakland (which we gave away with some shitty play by Elvis Andrus), and had chinese food and shopped in Victoria. NOW I’m headed through Tracy Arm Fjord and up to Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan ALASKA! This is amazing… Mr Disney is doing well… had tea with the moms and I yesterday and hung out for a bit yesterday. Taylor is here with her fam so we’ve had dinner and talked a bit much about work if you ask our families.
It’s cold here and our ship is trying to get used to the weather change… the heater is a little wonky but other than that the new blankets we got are awesome as well. Hmmmm… this place is amazing… I’m tired as my body keeps pointing out to me making me a narcoleptic. November to May … good times, good times ! I’ll write more in a bit and then I have to go take more pictures you know me I loves my pictures! See ya in a few!
So I bought an internet card… check out this horoscope! These things are right I swear!
May 05, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Relationships can be like a dance -- one partner leads while the other one follows. One of your relationships -- it could be a friendship, romantic partnership or even a business connection -- is in the middle of quite a tango. Your goal should be to advance things and become closer with this person. But in order to do that, you may have to let them lead for a while. Pressuring new ventures or forcing things to go the way you want isn't going to bring you the growth you desire.
-ash
It’s cold here and our ship is trying to get used to the weather change… the heater is a little wonky but other than that the new blankets we got are awesome as well. Hmmmm… this place is amazing… I’m tired as my body keeps pointing out to me making me a narcoleptic. November to May … good times, good times ! I’ll write more in a bit and then I have to go take more pictures you know me I loves my pictures! See ya in a few!
So I bought an internet card… check out this horoscope! These things are right I swear!
May 05, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Relationships can be like a dance -- one partner leads while the other one follows. One of your relationships -- it could be a friendship, romantic partnership or even a business connection -- is in the middle of quite a tango. Your goal should be to advance things and become closer with this person. But in order to do that, you may have to let them lead for a while. Pressuring new ventures or forcing things to go the way you want isn't going to bring you the growth you desire.
-ash
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Life Moves on... April 10th
Life Moves On…
April 10, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Stepping back and letting life move on without you for a while has been working well -- but today signs may be indicating that this phase is coming to an end. If you feel ready to get back into the action, take things slowly. Baby steps will lead you down the right path -- and possibly into the right person's arms. Let yourself be taken care of for a little while longer -- you deserve the attention. When you're ready to be at full social capacity, you will know it!
I love this… I think this pretty much sums up life for a while. Love , life and the pursuit of happiness. Being on the Wonder this week has felt like an entire month but I am glad that I was able to come here. Life is good no matter what I say in a fit of emotion. I love these peeps and would be happy here as well. I live on the Magic but will always be a WONDERpup.
We caught a cab to the Target and acted like a bunch of idiots in there… buying everything pretty much except for a freakin towel… damn! Mr. D is good, the ship is good things are good. LA LA land could be a bit warmer at this point but hey, who’s complaining too much … ME. I came from the Caribbean and it was hot not warm, HOT and it felt so good. Anywho…Baby steps will lead me down the right path.
Disney has a new itinerary on my ship the Magic so I’m going to try to hang on until at least Galveston… how can I miss my ship coming to my home state AND visiting my birth state… YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY! Sorry, got a bit excited there for a minute. Deuce is here and that makes me happy so I have my ship bestie here to help when I need to chat. She got the wisdom teeth taken out in Mexico (scary right?!) but she’s doing well and her jaw is a bit swollen. Life is good though… home so to speak with friends and family … I love it. I love you to my MAGIC fam… don’t get jealous!
April 10, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Stepping back and letting life move on without you for a while has been working well -- but today signs may be indicating that this phase is coming to an end. If you feel ready to get back into the action, take things slowly. Baby steps will lead you down the right path -- and possibly into the right person's arms. Let yourself be taken care of for a little while longer -- you deserve the attention. When you're ready to be at full social capacity, you will know it!
I love this… I think this pretty much sums up life for a while. Love , life and the pursuit of happiness. Being on the Wonder this week has felt like an entire month but I am glad that I was able to come here. Life is good no matter what I say in a fit of emotion. I love these peeps and would be happy here as well. I live on the Magic but will always be a WONDERpup.
We caught a cab to the Target and acted like a bunch of idiots in there… buying everything pretty much except for a freakin towel… damn! Mr. D is good, the ship is good things are good. LA LA land could be a bit warmer at this point but hey, who’s complaining too much … ME. I came from the Caribbean and it was hot not warm, HOT and it felt so good. Anywho…Baby steps will lead me down the right path.
Disney has a new itinerary on my ship the Magic so I’m going to try to hang on until at least Galveston… how can I miss my ship coming to my home state AND visiting my birth state… YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY! Sorry, got a bit excited there for a minute. Deuce is here and that makes me happy so I have my ship bestie here to help when I need to chat. She got the wisdom teeth taken out in Mexico (scary right?!) but she’s doing well and her jaw is a bit swollen. Life is good though… home so to speak with friends and family … I love it. I love you to my MAGIC fam… don’t get jealous!
Life Moves on... April 10th
Life Moves On…
April 10, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Stepping back and letting life move on without you for a while has been working well -- but today signs may be indicating that this phase is coming to an end. If you feel ready to get back into the action, take things slowly. Baby steps will lead you down the right path -- and possibly into the right person's arms. Let yourself be taken care of for a little while longer -- you deserve the attention. When you're ready to be at full social capacity, you will know it!
I love this… I think this pretty much sums up life for a while. Love , life and the pursuit of happiness. Being on the Wonder this week has felt like an entire month but I am glad that I was able to come here. Life is good no matter what I say in a fit of emotion. I love these peeps and would be happy here as well. I live on the Magic but will always be a WONDERpup.
We caught a cab to the Target and acted like a bunch of idiots in there… buying everything pretty much except for a freakin towel… damn! Mr. D is good, the ship is good things are good. LA LA land could be a bit warmer at this point but hey, who’s complaining too much … ME. I came from the Caribbean and it was hot not warm, HOT and it felt so good. Anywho…Baby steps will lead me down the right path.
Disney has a new itinerary on my ship the Magic so I’m going to try to hang on until at least Galveston… how can I miss my ship coming to my home state AND visiting my birth state… YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY! Sorry, got a bit excited there for a minute. Deuce is here and that makes me happy so I have my ship bestie here to help when I need to chat. She got the wisdom teeth taken out in Mexico (scary right?!) but she’s doing well and her jaw is a bit swollen. Life is good though… home so to speak with friends and family … I love it. I love you to my MAGIC fam… don’t get jealous!
April 10, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Stepping back and letting life move on without you for a while has been working well -- but today signs may be indicating that this phase is coming to an end. If you feel ready to get back into the action, take things slowly. Baby steps will lead you down the right path -- and possibly into the right person's arms. Let yourself be taken care of for a little while longer -- you deserve the attention. When you're ready to be at full social capacity, you will know it!
I love this… I think this pretty much sums up life for a while. Love , life and the pursuit of happiness. Being on the Wonder this week has felt like an entire month but I am glad that I was able to come here. Life is good no matter what I say in a fit of emotion. I love these peeps and would be happy here as well. I live on the Magic but will always be a WONDERpup.
We caught a cab to the Target and acted like a bunch of idiots in there… buying everything pretty much except for a freakin towel… damn! Mr. D is good, the ship is good things are good. LA LA land could be a bit warmer at this point but hey, who’s complaining too much … ME. I came from the Caribbean and it was hot not warm, HOT and it felt so good. Anywho…Baby steps will lead me down the right path.
Disney has a new itinerary on my ship the Magic so I’m going to try to hang on until at least Galveston… how can I miss my ship coming to my home state AND visiting my birth state… YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY! Sorry, got a bit excited there for a minute. Deuce is here and that makes me happy so I have my ship bestie here to help when I need to chat. She got the wisdom teeth taken out in Mexico (scary right?!) but she’s doing well and her jaw is a bit swollen. Life is good though… home so to speak with friends and family … I love it. I love you to my MAGIC fam… don’t get jealous!
Friday, April 8, 2011
April 8th >>> wonder fun
April 08, 2011
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Open yourself up to the idea that expression is necessary to get you to the next level of happiness. In other words, for a healthier life, you need to share your feelings -- no matter what they are. Utilize your personality and express yourself in the best way you know how. Singing, dancing, cooking or even just goofing around are all great ways to display how you're feeling. If you keep your emotions inside or mask them, then you'll be wasting your time.
This is a good one. Thought I’d add it to the days journaling/ blogging. Wow… what a few Wonder days! It’s been a whirlwhind since I got here … job wise and personally. Things are good and I am working with a great team. Looking forward to being able to just focus on work and not on training anyone or making any changes. It’s nice to be here and not have to worry about that. I’m not here to rock the Wonder…just filling in. It’s like I tell people I’m from NYC but I live in Texas. I’m from the Wonder but I live on the Magic.
It’s been great being here and seeing all my Wonder fam… it was long overdue. Mr. Disney is being his usual wishy washy self but one can’t help what the heart feels right?! Anyway… I’m still jet lagged…trying to get my body on the right time zone… that flight across the country thing really threw a kink in the plans.
Let’s talk more about the new Disney Itenerary!! NEW YORK/ GALVESTON/ BAHAMAS/MEXICO!!! Ican’t stand it I love it so much!! Talk more later.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
1. Scorpio (10/23-11/21)
Open yourself up to the idea that expression is necessary to get you to the next level of happiness. In other words, for a healthier life, you need to share your feelings -- no matter what they are. Utilize your personality and express yourself in the best way you know how. Singing, dancing, cooking or even just goofing around are all great ways to display how you're feeling. If you keep your emotions inside or mask them, then you'll be wasting your time.
This is a good one. Thought I’d add it to the days journaling/ blogging. Wow… what a few Wonder days! It’s been a whirlwhind since I got here … job wise and personally. Things are good and I am working with a great team. Looking forward to being able to just focus on work and not on training anyone or making any changes. It’s nice to be here and not have to worry about that. I’m not here to rock the Wonder…just filling in. It’s like I tell people I’m from NYC but I live in Texas. I’m from the Wonder but I live on the Magic.
It’s been great being here and seeing all my Wonder fam… it was long overdue. Mr. Disney is being his usual wishy washy self but one can’t help what the heart feels right?! Anyway… I’m still jet lagged…trying to get my body on the right time zone… that flight across the country thing really threw a kink in the plans.
Let’s talk more about the new Disney Itenerary!! NEW YORK/ GALVESTON/ BAHAMAS/MEXICO!!! Ican’t stand it I love it so much!! Talk more later.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
Saturday, March 19, 2011
3 cruises left!!!
3 CRUISES LEFT!!!
I love saying that. I have grown to love it here on the Magic but I do miss my Wonder fam. Mr. Disney is on his ship I am on mine and I think that's okay for now. Friends we were before friends we'll be again... life is good. Planning out the vacation and putting the finishing touches on all that I will be doing. Working some, sleeping often, driving a lot as well. CRUISING THE PCH FROM L.A. to SAN FRANCISCO is on the agenda and then MAYBE, just MAYBE a cruise on my home ship the WONDER to ALASKA!!! It'll be good to see a bunch of the old friends and have some fun for mothers day with the moms and...wait for it...wait for it... MY BROTHER IS COMING TOO!! I know he never wants to go but I asked him and he said yes so I added him to the vacation list!! I hope it all works out then we can get the munchkins to come on a cruise this summer or next! I MISS EVERYONE SO SO MUCH AND AM A BIT TIRED RIGHT NOW.
Dodgeball is on the agenda for this week. YA had an amazing dodgeball extravaganza last embark and peeps heard it was a good time. NOW...the crazy Cruise Staff and Main Stagers think they can beat us in Dodgeball... NOT GONNA HAPPEN!! It's going down this COZUMEL 12:15AM SPORTS DECK... I'll update you next port day!
Gotta get back to the ship for my 3rd to last cruise... talk to you later!!
-new adventures: no regrets
ash
I love saying that. I have grown to love it here on the Magic but I do miss my Wonder fam. Mr. Disney is on his ship I am on mine and I think that's okay for now. Friends we were before friends we'll be again... life is good. Planning out the vacation and putting the finishing touches on all that I will be doing. Working some, sleeping often, driving a lot as well. CRUISING THE PCH FROM L.A. to SAN FRANCISCO is on the agenda and then MAYBE, just MAYBE a cruise on my home ship the WONDER to ALASKA!!! It'll be good to see a bunch of the old friends and have some fun for mothers day with the moms and...wait for it...wait for it... MY BROTHER IS COMING TOO!! I know he never wants to go but I asked him and he said yes so I added him to the vacation list!! I hope it all works out then we can get the munchkins to come on a cruise this summer or next! I MISS EVERYONE SO SO MUCH AND AM A BIT TIRED RIGHT NOW.
Dodgeball is on the agenda for this week. YA had an amazing dodgeball extravaganza last embark and peeps heard it was a good time. NOW...the crazy Cruise Staff and Main Stagers think they can beat us in Dodgeball... NOT GONNA HAPPEN!! It's going down this COZUMEL 12:15AM SPORTS DECK... I'll update you next port day!
Gotta get back to the ship for my 3rd to last cruise... talk to you later!!
-new adventures: no regrets
ash
Sunday, March 6, 2011
key west
I do love this port. It's always got something going on and some craziness. Last time I saw Mike Leach here and am continuing to love coming here. Mr. Disney and I are playing the silent game and I am headed back to work soon.
I'm in a bit of a funk but will try to write my blogs daily and nightly and then update the blog on the internet on Saturday or in St Thomas.
Love you all!!
Ashley
I'm in a bit of a funk but will try to write my blogs daily and nightly and then update the blog on the internet on Saturday or in St Thomas.
Love you all!!
Ashley
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
march 2
March 2, 2011
St. Thomas here we come! It’s drill day and I’m really thrown off by the fact that it’s drill day. We usually do drill in St. Maarten but this time they switched it up. But hey I’m not complaining I’m exempt from this drill AND we aren’t tendering so I get to go ashore!! WOO HOO!! I’ve never been able to get off in St. Thomas before! Kenny and I are going to hang out today for a bit and then I’m going to call m y Madre. Let’s discuss my sickness that is lingering and won’t go away or come with full force either… not happy about that at all.
ST THOMAS… WHY ARE YOU SO PRETTY?
I LOVED IT OUT THERE… I’LL HAVE TO WRITE MORE LATER… I’M ON MY WAY TO WORK… WE SAW SOME IGUANAS…ALMOST DIED ON A TAXI RIDE OR TWO, ATE PIZZA AND I ACQUIRED A NEW NICKNAME… BUBBLES!
New Adventures:New Regrets
Ashley
St. Thomas here we come! It’s drill day and I’m really thrown off by the fact that it’s drill day. We usually do drill in St. Maarten but this time they switched it up. But hey I’m not complaining I’m exempt from this drill AND we aren’t tendering so I get to go ashore!! WOO HOO!! I’ve never been able to get off in St. Thomas before! Kenny and I are going to hang out today for a bit and then I’m going to call m y Madre. Let’s discuss my sickness that is lingering and won’t go away or come with full force either… not happy about that at all.
ST THOMAS… WHY ARE YOU SO PRETTY?
I LOVED IT OUT THERE… I’LL HAVE TO WRITE MORE LATER… I’M ON MY WAY TO WORK… WE SAW SOME IGUANAS…ALMOST DIED ON A TAXI RIDE OR TWO, ATE PIZZA AND I ACQUIRED A NEW NICKNAME… BUBBLES!
New Adventures:New Regrets
Ashley
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
hola st. maarten
St. Maarten: March 1, 2011
Today was the most amazing day! I actually got off work and went to the beach. I only left like 20 minutes late and then took the 15 minute walk to the beach. A nap was in order and so I took one! It was astounding. The sun was high and there was not a cloud in the sky. My ipod was blaring and I was able to completely relax and enjoy the solitude of the day.
Home:
Got an email from mom about the phone bill…OUTLANDISH… $4/minute!! We/ she got that worked out so we’ll make those payments ASAP but man oh man that is outlandish. I am looking at phone options so if you have any for me, leave me a note below this entry. I love my AT&T though so we’ll see what we can do. We have a contract with AT&T so breaking that costs a shit ton of money as well. Hmmmmm… so many things to think about, not enough time.
School:
School is still going…it’s so hard to get things done here on ship. I am coming to think that I will never get to finish this degree while I’m working on the ships. I am moving this weekend… for the last time hopefully before I come home. I am not happy about moving but think I am going to have to move anyway in 2 weeks so I thought I’d move now. I’m packing up a bunch of stuff and sending home since I will be packing anyway. If I don’t send it this Saturday I am going to send it the next time I am off.
Ship:
We think we are going to be inspected by the US Public Health (USPH). I’m on lates this weekend so that is okay by me. I have to clean something crazy on Friday though so I am going to be uber tired on Saturday. Hopefully they come and we can get it over with. I would rather have them not come when I am on duty.
So inevitably… Mr. Disney has flown the coup. do I look like I have all the answers to life? I’m the older wiser one here but that is still something I don’t have the answer to. I’d like to see where it goes but I can’t make someone try to make a relationship work. Know what I mean? Huh, anyway he’s flown the coup nonetheless, but I will move on… call it what it was… fun. Just my luck… I should be used to the luck I’ve got.
New Adventures: No Regrets
Ashley
Today was the most amazing day! I actually got off work and went to the beach. I only left like 20 minutes late and then took the 15 minute walk to the beach. A nap was in order and so I took one! It was astounding. The sun was high and there was not a cloud in the sky. My ipod was blaring and I was able to completely relax and enjoy the solitude of the day.
Home:
Got an email from mom about the phone bill…OUTLANDISH… $4/minute!! We/ she got that worked out so we’ll make those payments ASAP but man oh man that is outlandish. I am looking at phone options so if you have any for me, leave me a note below this entry. I love my AT&T though so we’ll see what we can do. We have a contract with AT&T so breaking that costs a shit ton of money as well. Hmmmmm… so many things to think about, not enough time.
School:
School is still going…it’s so hard to get things done here on ship. I am coming to think that I will never get to finish this degree while I’m working on the ships. I am moving this weekend… for the last time hopefully before I come home. I am not happy about moving but think I am going to have to move anyway in 2 weeks so I thought I’d move now. I’m packing up a bunch of stuff and sending home since I will be packing anyway. If I don’t send it this Saturday I am going to send it the next time I am off.
Ship:
We think we are going to be inspected by the US Public Health (USPH). I’m on lates this weekend so that is okay by me. I have to clean something crazy on Friday though so I am going to be uber tired on Saturday. Hopefully they come and we can get it over with. I would rather have them not come when I am on duty.
So inevitably… Mr. Disney has flown the coup. do I look like I have all the answers to life? I’m the older wiser one here but that is still something I don’t have the answer to. I’d like to see where it goes but I can’t make someone try to make a relationship work. Know what I mean? Huh, anyway he’s flown the coup nonetheless, but I will move on… call it what it was… fun. Just my luck… I should be used to the luck I’ve got.
New Adventures: No Regrets
Ashley
Saturday, February 19, 2011
What an AMAZING/ CRAZY week!!
Hello world I know I was off the grid for a bit but I was preoccupied with other things/people. Sorry but deal with it! Life has been a whilrwind in the past week. Mr. Disney made his way to the Disney Magic and I switched from the Oceaneer Lab to the Oceaneer Club... our floor was ripped up the toilet was overflowing... Mr. D's luggage was lost... then he had some craziness at the end. We lost an ent host to vocal shenanigans and then had a stand in named Penelope Projectile who likes to make things that go "BOOM" . It's been a fun /crazy week. Messed up navs this week but who could blame me, my head has been all over the place. Went to spend some time on the beach yesterday... (i suck and forgot my camera to upload the pics) BEATIMUS!!! I will try to upload tomorrow in Key West. I'm taking a class starting tomorrow called PLEX (PREPARING LEADERS FOR EXCELLENCE). It starts tomorrow and ends sometime around the 5th of March AND there is a test at the end!! I hate tests so the thought of that freaks me out a bit. Haven't done much in the way of school in the past week and a half so that has to happen ASAP. I bought a new planner today so I can hopefully get somem ore things in order... aka my whole life on a schedule again. I'm at Barnes and Noble typing away so that you (my family and friends) don't feel as though I have abandoned you. I love you all and am getting ready to start a Western Cruise... PORT CANAVERAL, KEY WEST, SEA DAY1, GRAND CAYMAN, COZUMEL, SEA DAY2, CASTAWAY CAY ... sounds just awful doesn't it?!! Don't hate me... it's usually a beautiful cruise and things go well... hopefully we won't have the craizness of 2603.
Today the counselor games start and all is going to be a competition from here on out in YA. Lots of people with lots of crazy ideas.
Gotta go... miss you all... will upload pics tomorrow if the computer gods are willing to let that happen at a place in KW.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS!
Ashley
Today the counselor games start and all is going to be a competition from here on out in YA. Lots of people with lots of crazy ideas.
Gotta go... miss you all... will upload pics tomorrow if the computer gods are willing to let that happen at a place in KW.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS!
Ashley
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Like Sand through an Hourglass… so are the days of my life….
Hilarious… that’s what I call the last few days. I have some crazy crazy counselors that work for me and my boss who is leaving shortly is hilarious. My new boss is quiet but seems really really nice. For those who know the lingo and if you’ve been reading, you should by now. We’ve had a simba. . . 4 scoops and 1 Mickey Band assigned to 3 people. Sounds like a load of fun right? I know I just can’t contain myself. Yesterday was a looooooong day… 2 Flubbers and a RATATOUILLE Cooking school all in one day on top of Piston Cup last night as well. We are going to have to switch up that schedule a bit… everyone was worn out last night at the end. Had dinner with some peeps tonight… got some more insight into the personality of the people that I work with besides RED BULL… life is good… visitor coming in February or maybe March sometime… could be seven days could be 14 not sure but don’t even care really… visitors on their own are amazing!
Here on the Magic, there is a meeting every day to discuss something little or big and I have to try to remember and or keep up with all the changes. I am signed up to take the Managing Change training and a conflict course. Should be interesting and even if not, it will show me being dedicated to the work. I got my PCP information today , maybe yesterday so I can start working on that as well.
As for school I have an extension coming up and will have to work on all of this Saturday and throughout the week. I am going to need to get so much done it’s insane. I will have to get on the computer and complete the extension while on CASTAWAY or maybe even sooner than that.
Hmmmmmm- I don’t mind the Magic (I Hated the first minute I came on) but the WONDER is my home.
Gotta go… talk to you later!!!
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS!!
Ashley
Here on the Magic, there is a meeting every day to discuss something little or big and I have to try to remember and or keep up with all the changes. I am signed up to take the Managing Change training and a conflict course. Should be interesting and even if not, it will show me being dedicated to the work. I got my PCP information today , maybe yesterday so I can start working on that as well.
As for school I have an extension coming up and will have to work on all of this Saturday and throughout the week. I am going to need to get so much done it’s insane. I will have to get on the computer and complete the extension while on CASTAWAY or maybe even sooner than that.
Hmmmmmm- I don’t mind the Magic (I Hated the first minute I came on) but the WONDER is my home.
Gotta go… talk to you later!!!
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS!!
Ashley
Monday, January 17, 2011
Almost One Week In....
Almost one week in…
Well, well, well. It’s been quite a week. I am coming to the end of my handover week with Anthony and am finding things to be much more different than initially thought. Programs are different, people are obviously different and some administrational goodness if different. I wasn’t expecting things to be the same by any means but I also wasn’t expecting the differences.
Got to speak to Ayana today which was AMAZING!! She probably can’t cruise with me like I was hoping but I can go see her before and after my cruise if I want. I think she may be in LA at the time. Spoke to Disney via email and he said he was going to try to come cruise the Magic while I’m here and he’s on vacation. WOO HOO!! That is my life right now…short messages and short time…where is school fitting in right now? It’s not but it should be. I have to get settled and see if I can have an extension. SHIP and SCHOOL is hard!
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
Well, well, well. It’s been quite a week. I am coming to the end of my handover week with Anthony and am finding things to be much more different than initially thought. Programs are different, people are obviously different and some administrational goodness if different. I wasn’t expecting things to be the same by any means but I also wasn’t expecting the differences.
Got to speak to Ayana today which was AMAZING!! She probably can’t cruise with me like I was hoping but I can go see her before and after my cruise if I want. I think she may be in LA at the time. Spoke to Disney via email and he said he was going to try to come cruise the Magic while I’m here and he’s on vacation. WOO HOO!! That is my life right now…short messages and short time…where is school fitting in right now? It’s not but it should be. I have to get settled and see if I can have an extension. SHIP and SCHOOL is hard!
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
dAY 4
Day 4
So day 4 wasn’t so bad…
I’ve been gone from my Wonder family for 4 days now but it’s not SO bad on the Magic. Would I rather be going through the Panama Canal… for sure, but this isn’t so bad at the moment. I am still in the midst of my handover with Anthony which consists of me getting to know the differences between the two ships. I wish I had gotten the chance to visit the Dream while she was in port. Oh well… next time I get a break maybe I’ll try to sail. Anthony and I have had a blast running around the ship and the spaces making sure we get things done and he can start to wrap up everything. It’s amazing how many familiar faces I see on this ship. I’ve run into a TON of people who transferred in late 2010 or those that came over with me last Thursday. I can’t wait to get to Cozumel tomorrow. I am off until 4:00pm and will have been off almost 24 hours. I will have been off for 22 hours when I start back to work. HOW EXCITING!!
I called the Wonder the other day and surprised Mr. Disney… he wasn’t expecting a phone call but seemed happy that I did call. It was good to call and hear his voice. I miss him more than I ever thought I would, it’s nice to have someone to talk to and cuddling isn’t bad either, lol. As I said previously we’re going to see what happens… I’m here and he’s there so not too much is going to happen besides the phone calls, Skype dates and maybe a visit here and there.
So day 4 wasn’t so bad…
I’ve been gone from my Wonder family for 4 days now but it’s not SO bad on the Magic. Would I rather be going through the Panama Canal… for sure, but this isn’t so bad at the moment. I am still in the midst of my handover with Anthony which consists of me getting to know the differences between the two ships. I wish I had gotten the chance to visit the Dream while she was in port. Oh well… next time I get a break maybe I’ll try to sail. Anthony and I have had a blast running around the ship and the spaces making sure we get things done and he can start to wrap up everything. It’s amazing how many familiar faces I see on this ship. I’ve run into a TON of people who transferred in late 2010 or those that came over with me last Thursday. I can’t wait to get to Cozumel tomorrow. I am off until 4:00pm and will have been off almost 24 hours. I will have been off for 22 hours when I start back to work. HOW EXCITING!!
I called the Wonder the other day and surprised Mr. Disney… he wasn’t expecting a phone call but seemed happy that I did call. It was good to call and hear his voice. I miss him more than I ever thought I would, it’s nice to have someone to talk to and cuddling isn’t bad either, lol. As I said previously we’re going to see what happens… I’m here and he’s there so not too much is going to happen besides the phone calls, Skype dates and maybe a visit here and there.
Friday, January 7, 2011
It's a Brand New Day....
So I wake up today on land with an idea that I am going to get through the next 3months... not sure how but I am going to make it some how. I am not a quitter and walking away is not really an option because I would feel awful. THEN I open the computer and my horoscope pops up. Check it out !
Now i'm looking forward to trying my hand on a new ship and with a new-ish itinereary (we just did it on the Wonder for hte holidays but it's still new).
I am a good person.
I am good at what I am doing.
I am here because I want to be.
I am going to be successful on the MAGIC
I'll write more later on in the day... love you and miss you.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
.
January 07, 2011
Scorpio (10/23-11/21)All the hardest parts of your life are over -- and the fun times are about to begin. Just like the feeling you get when you are coasting down a hill on your bicycle, you will feel free and unencumbered by the forces of life today. You are riding a wave of energy that you didn't necessarily create, but it is taking you to a very good destination. Get ready for some entertaining challenges that could transform the social world you currently live in.
Now i'm looking forward to trying my hand on a new ship and with a new-ish itinereary (we just did it on the Wonder for hte holidays but it's still new).
I am a good person.
I am good at what I am doing.
I am here because I want to be.
I am going to be successful on the MAGIC
I'll write more later on in the day... love you and miss you.
NEW ADVENTURES: NO REGRETS
.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The Longest Cruise EVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEER
Wow… so this EASTERN CRUISE has been awful. I feel like my brain is being torn in 9 million different directions and I feel like I could come home right now and be sad only about one thing and it doesn’t include work. In the last 4 days I’ve gotten in trouble more than I got in trouble my entire last contract. I’m over it right now… oh yeah and now I have to go back to the Crown Plaza to stay until the Magic ports and then get up at the ass crack of dawn to embark. NO BUENO.
My friend twinkle toes… is ready to walk off the ship. She is ready to get her passport and just get on a plane and go. I am trying to change her mind and tell her to give it a chance but I’m not sure if it’s going to happen. I got a VW today for something that didn’t seem like it was too big an issue considering it was all communicated to the person who makes the changes. I got one on a different card 2 days ago for over sleeping which is acceptable (even though another assistant manager was present and could have called me). Awful… I told you just awful. What really sucks is that I have to do this itinerary every other week for the next 3 or 4 months. YUCK. I have tons of reviews to complete so that I can be signed off and done with the whole shenanigans.
I feel like the past few days I have not been able to be myself and I hate that… I am sad, glad, nervous… you name it and I probably fit into that category. I know I can come home when I want but I’m not a quitter… I am capable of doing this job and am capable of doing it well AND enjoying it. I have to put my head down and focus… EYE ON THE PRIZE at this point.
Talked to the brother today. I’m worried about him. His kids are amazing but their situation sucks and I don’t want him to be affected byt hat if I can help it. I won’t be going to Hawaii, not after the cruise that I have had… my file looks pretty special I’m sure after this one. I’ll ask to see my file tomorrow so at least I know what I’m headed to the Magic with. At least I can go in with my eyes wide open.
I WANT TO GO THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL… SO SO UNFAIR… THAT’S ALL I WANTED TO DO BUT NOOOOOOOOO… I’M STUCK IN THE CARIBBEAN… I’m sure that sounds stupid to you but man a new itinerary would have been great. I’ll have all my Wonder family take pics and send them to me.
I need to pay my car payment and then re-up the insurance so I can get someone to drive my car to Florida for me… I’d like to have my vehicle here if possible so that I don’t have to pay for the bus anymore. I need to find out how that works. When I leave here on the 9th of April, twinkle toes is coming to visit Texas and I’m driving home from Florida. Could be fun… I’ll have to see which friend I know that might want to fly in to Florida and then drive with me… if no one can… I’m doing it on my own … no worries.
I’m over typing at this point… I'm over a lot of things at this point...talk to you later!
Ashley
My friend twinkle toes… is ready to walk off the ship. She is ready to get her passport and just get on a plane and go. I am trying to change her mind and tell her to give it a chance but I’m not sure if it’s going to happen. I got a VW today for something that didn’t seem like it was too big an issue considering it was all communicated to the person who makes the changes. I got one on a different card 2 days ago for over sleeping which is acceptable (even though another assistant manager was present and could have called me). Awful… I told you just awful. What really sucks is that I have to do this itinerary every other week for the next 3 or 4 months. YUCK. I have tons of reviews to complete so that I can be signed off and done with the whole shenanigans.
I feel like the past few days I have not been able to be myself and I hate that… I am sad, glad, nervous… you name it and I probably fit into that category. I know I can come home when I want but I’m not a quitter… I am capable of doing this job and am capable of doing it well AND enjoying it. I have to put my head down and focus… EYE ON THE PRIZE at this point.
Talked to the brother today. I’m worried about him. His kids are amazing but their situation sucks and I don’t want him to be affected byt hat if I can help it. I won’t be going to Hawaii, not after the cruise that I have had… my file looks pretty special I’m sure after this one. I’ll ask to see my file tomorrow so at least I know what I’m headed to the Magic with. At least I can go in with my eyes wide open.
I WANT TO GO THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL… SO SO UNFAIR… THAT’S ALL I WANTED TO DO BUT NOOOOOOOOO… I’M STUCK IN THE CARIBBEAN… I’m sure that sounds stupid to you but man a new itinerary would have been great. I’ll have all my Wonder family take pics and send them to me.
I need to pay my car payment and then re-up the insurance so I can get someone to drive my car to Florida for me… I’d like to have my vehicle here if possible so that I don’t have to pay for the bus anymore. I need to find out how that works. When I leave here on the 9th of April, twinkle toes is coming to visit Texas and I’m driving home from Florida. Could be fun… I’ll have to see which friend I know that might want to fly in to Florida and then drive with me… if no one can… I’m doing it on my own … no worries.
I’m over typing at this point… I'm over a lot of things at this point...talk to you later!
Ashley
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)