500 Places

#2 Hollywood--a very broad definition is mentioned including Universal Studios and Forest Lawn Cemetary.

Things Change

Primarily, my vacation plans....

I was scheduled for (and excited about) a cruise in November; my first real vacation in several years when my friend, A, asked if I would be willing to postpone it until January.

"I don't know...why?" was my first response.

"I'm going to 'The Aunt's' in November and wondered if you'd want to come," was her response.

Now, "The Aunt" is in Mexico and who am I to pass up an opportunity like this? So, today I called and cancelled my cruise in favor of a very authentic trip to Chihuahua, Mexico. I am equal parts excited and very anxious. I'm excited because I've heard all about her family and Chihuahua (home of the Copper Canyon...on the 1000 Places list), and since we're visiting in November I'll also get to experience the Day of the Dead (also on "The List"). I'm anxious for a number of reasons most centering around cultural shock and what I'll eat, but overall I can't wait for any vacation, anywhere.

Originally this proposition called for postponing my cruise, not canceling it outright, but today she also suggested I join her and many of her other closest friends and family on a cruise along the Mexican Riviera in January. Coincidentally, the stops include Acapulco and Zihuatanejo (2 destinations also from "The List"). I've started thinking she has taken personal responsibility to help me meet my goal of 500 Places...and I'll take any help that's offered!

Emotional

USA Today is publishing Jill Carroll's story of her abduction and captivity in Iraq. Everyone should read it.

Quick Update

Mom's doing fine, recovering nicely, almost ready to go back to her regular routine. Thanks again for all the good wishes and prayers!

500 Places

As previously mentioned, I bought 1000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Shultz, and have made a personal goal to visit 500...I've decided to post photos of the places I see. I've visited 10 in the first 32 years of my life and I'll have to look around to find pictures of the "early years", but for now:

#1: The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Temple Square:

The Zoo