Fitness

Hike up the Volcano in San Salavador

Posted on March 14, 2013 by erikamae82

I had no idea El Salvador contained so many volcanoes! I’m lucky enough that the owners of the hostel we’re staying at not only live near one, but are willing to take us up there for some sight seeing.

As we drive up the base you can start to see the city streets dwindle and the greenery begin to dominate.

This specific volcano last irrupted in 1917 and is now a tourist attraction equipped with a mini museum.

Although the short hike has easy footing, it’s definitely steep enough for a little burn in the buns… You know I’m loving it!

Need to use the bathroom? Look no farther as they provide “areas” for that.

Unfortunately it’s not the clearest of days, but you can definitely get an idea of the view.

As you exit the park there’s a sweet woman selling fresh berries ($1 for the entire bowl) and homemade jam. My favorite part was the deal being completed through and over the fence. Classic!

On the way back down the hill, we made a pit stop with an incredible view of San Salvasor. Here they offered coffee, cocoa, traditional meals, snacks and desserts all with open air seating.

To enhance our journey, we decided to order a few traditional goodies for the table to share. This is a bowl of boiled cassava root with curtido (a pickled cabbage, onion, tomato and carrot topping) and pescaditas (fried baby sardines).

The plate in the back is fried yuca with a sweet sugar cane based syrup and the dish with two rolls on it is mashed platino (a firm, less sweet fruit in the banana family) stuffed with beans and the other is filled with a milk based pudding. Both deep fried and sprinkled with sugar.

Finally the second and last handstand shot of the day!

Categories: Edibles!, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: cassava, pescaditas, platinos, San Salvador, Volcano, yuca | Leave a comment

Los Chorros de Juayua

Posted on March 12, 2013 by erikamae82

Good morning and welcome to a vibrant day in the village of Juayua! Before mom and I head out for the food festival, I wanted to explore the well know “Los Chorros de Juayua”. These are natural springs that run down a hillside combined with man-made damns for little swimming holes. These waterfalls draw in small crowds for a chilly dip or a hike to treat the lovers of nature.

The trek starts with a view of what seems like a never ending jungle of green with sounds of birds, bugs and the faint music of running water.

As you get deeper into the brush, the first sight of water presents itself and brings a peaceful sense of just being.

I did this trek on my own which kept me giggling at every option that either led to a locked gate or sketchy crossing. With confidence in the path chosen, I just keep on moving!

As I approached this crossroad, I could hear joyful people coming from above the sound of rushing water. I made it in time to find some local kids and a sweet couple enjoying the beauty of the elements around us.

After watching me take pictures as if I’ve never seen a waterfall before, they invite me to join them and jump in… Done!

Found out (by accident) that my underwater camera feature works. I’ll have to play around with it more often!

As I checked out the final set of falls, I found these kids showing off their bravery skills. Much fun to be had in El Salvador on such a bright day!

As I started my trek back, these happy fellas helped me out with a handstand shot.

Natural Earth + Warm Sun + Crisp Water = A glorious start to a day I’m so grateful for.

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Juayua, Los Chorros de Juayua, swimming holes, waterfalls | 1 Comment

Yoga? You found me! LEAP this way…

Posted on February 6, 2013 by erikamae82

*Some of the photos below are borrowed from fellow LEAP lovers.

Depending on how long you’ve been following this blog, you probably get a solid idea that I believe things, people, and places are introduced into your life at the appropriate time. All for reasons that we may not even be aware of. Now enters LEAP yoga and everyone there!

LEAP is a studio located in my hometown of Folsom, California. I would often hear of the place through several invitations from friends who were already attending. At that time in my life, I chose working full time (over time), lifting weights, and dancing were my three priorities of energy expense. I’m not saying that I had chosen the healthier options… It’s just the way it was.

Upon returning to the ever so familiar city of Folsom, I was greeted by my precious (to say at the least) friend Crystal with an invite to join her for yoga. “Let me guess” I say, ‘It’s that LEAP place everyone keeps talking about, right?”. With a huge expression and a face filled with her contagious smile, she replies, “Yeh! So you’re going!”. Feeling the need to focus internally and release some tension, I decided it was a great idea, little did I know…. A brilliant idea! Let’s call it journey changing.

As you enter LEAP you’re greeted with genuine smiles and more often than not an abundance of sincere hugs followed by “I’m so excited you’re here!”

Side fun note: See that sparkling smile in the middle of the instructors photos? That’s Mark, a friend in which I used to trick-o-treat with back in our elementary school days. Now he’s a guiding light here at LEAP! Below is a photo from our old school yearbook, Awh…so cute!

Moving on to the natural calming sense that begins to take over as you make your way to practice. How can you feel stressed out when you approach a waterfall Buddha? Just feel the instant dropping of your shoulders as you enter a warm room filled with peaceful decor.

Im sure we’re all here for a different reasons. Many want the exercise and stretching, others might desire a sort of meditation or therapeutic session. No matter what your intensions are, as you arrive to the practice and you layout your mat, you’re tickled with an “indescribable” feeling. Something that grows within you as you acknowledge your purpose and embrace the beautiful experience. (Those feelings I will attempt to describe in a future post!)

Here is a scrumptious handful of photos to try and give you just a glimpse of the pure energy, sweaty smiles and active room that is… LEAP!

The creators, Cathy and Corey (pictured below) shared a vision for creating a studio where one could feel connected, supported and honored. “At Leap we are committed to building a community rooted in compassion, love and truth. We want to support all of our students in creating their best life.” Mission accomplished my new friends!

They have a modern website that is welcoming and easy to follow. I encourage you to check it out to get a more thorough idea of this magical place! Click here to be directed to leapyoga.net.

Here are two of my favorite pictures from the LEAP website!

A very deep and personal note of gratitude to Crystal, Jamie, Donna, Mark, Jenna, Michelle, Robert, Allie, Allison and Joy. You each have uniquely enhanced my life with such grace, I couldn’t have planned it for better. Thank you for sharing and enjoying our path crossing!

Categories: Art, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: California, exercise, Folsom, Leap, meditation, peace, practice, Yoga | 1 Comment

And the winner is…

Posted on January 28, 2013 by erikamae82

Thank you everyone for contributing to the decision of the “handstand of the year” photo. After open nominations and a week of voting here are the winners!

In a strong first place, you voted for the shot at the top of Stone Mountain in Atalanta, Georgia. Thank you Marshall for capturing this winning photo!

The runner up is an unforgettable picture (in which some has asked if it was photo shopped… No way!) peering over the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru. Thank you random British couple that took time of their tour to make sure this picture came out just right!

The following three are equally as memorable and ranked as honorable mentions.

Yes, this is in the middle of Grand Central Station in New York City, New York. Also, commonly referred to as the “Where’s Erika?”. Jessica, you were a trooper with this one! Due to the noise, distance and the crowd, we just crossed our fingers and went for it. Well done my friend!

This is perched up on an over look, giving you a partial view of Tossa De Mar, Spain. To the French guy who snapped this shot, the look on your face when I came out of the handstand clearly showed you had no idea I was going upside down. Hopefully you walked away with a smile after taking this photo of a non traditional tourist.

The small town of Ipoh in Malaysia brought this gorgeous waterfall dropping from the jungles above. Kuldip and family, thank you for sharing your beautiful home town with me!

Fun categories that I wanted to share!

“The most attempts to get the single shot” is in Lake Tekapo, New Zealnad. I had to balance the camera on a rock sitting hillside while angling it to capture this view. After finally getting the angle right, I then had to set the self timer and run down the hill, jump up on a shaky table, kick up without going over and balance the handstand long enough with hope that I got it…. Who knows how long had passed before a sweet backpacker approached me and said “Can I help you with that?”

A three way tie for “The cutest helpers”!

The children from Club Suyai Wari, Peru

The Dutch couple in Munich, Germany at Oktoberfest

…and of course my adorable siblings in Agra, Oklahoma!

The winner of “Hardest handstand to hold” goes to Huacachina, Peru. Those boots were so heavy to kick up to a full handstand, not even considering to do it in sand!

Salzburg, Austria definitely takes the cake for the story behind “Best 8 minutes surrounding a handstand” winner. This peaceful picture was in the middle of what could of been a 24 hour adventure made into a short film. Marshall, we definitely Salzburged it!

If you’re new to this site and are interested in seeing all of the handstand photos, just click at the top of the page “Handstanding around the world”. More to come!

Categories: Fitness, Polls, Uncategorized | Tags: 2012, Handstand winner, Vote | 1 Comment

Happy and healthy with sandy toes!

Posted on January 15, 2013 by erikamae82

We’ve all heard the famous words, “Exercise releases endorphins”. These are natural hormones that flood the body with a feel-good energy that releases stress and uplifts your mood… and I love it!

I headed down to the complimentary gym of the condo to get my heart rate up and release those amazing endorphins.
Although small, I appreciated the cleanliness as I observed what tools I had to work with. They had a few treadmills, two seated bikes and a set of free weights all stored in a compact room with a magnificent view.

As I peddled away during my warm up, it hit me… wham! I’m sitting in a tiny room with florescent lighting, and a window that happened to be showing me a much bigger, brighter, and fabulous gym… We call it the beach!

I stopped the bike and headed towards mom to see if she was up for a workout in the sand. The gym was on the 4th floor, our place sat on the 20th and if you know me well, you know this was an invite for a stair climb. Ready set go!

Once reaching mom, 2 minutes and 18 seconds later (I timed my stair climb each attempt in order to motivate a quick pace) we agreed that a beach visit would be the perfect ending to this vibrant day.

Fitness time! I’m going to break this down into some basic thoughts for a proper beach workout.

Let’s start with some rules. First off, check your surroundings to make sure you don’t put yourself or any others in danger. That appears easy today!

Next, scan the sand for any seashells that can later be made into jewelry (that I’ll be taking abroad to gift, trade or donate).

Bring liquids to keep hydrated (preferably in self designed cups).

Be aware of seagulls and/or any other flying creature that could view your head as a target.

Time to get the heart rate up! I spy I tiny bird that wants to play tag, so I sneak up…

…and the chase begins! He won.

I take a breather to practice some press handstand moves. These are much harder for me than it appears!

Back to increasing the heart rate… Tuck jumps and running in place are two great ways to do so while triggering different muscles.

I then attempted to play with the waves. I chase them, they get me. I dodge them, they get me.

Now everyone STOP! Its time for the dance portion of this work out.

Followed by a quick photo shoot requested by the photographer (my proud mom of course).

A peaceful stretch after the energetic fun seems to align the mind and body to a calm sense of completion.

The final task is sharing the sunset with your best friend. Taking each breath in appreciation for your health and happiness while having full gratitude for whats in front of you. I cheers with a smile to living in the now.

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, cardio, fitness, Florida, Gymnastics, sand, workout | 1 Comment

Monkey business in Malaysia

Posted on October 30, 2012 by erikamae82

Still floating on my cloud-o-joy from the previous day, I reconnected with Brian. He’s the energetic owner of the Green Forest Cafe.

I had mentioned my craving for more mental stimulation and active movement. Before I knew it, he closed up shop and set the day ahead full of fun surprises.

Activity #1
A beautiful walk up one of Penang’s hill that brought jungle, ponds, monkeys, trees, orchids, and more!

A fun sitting pose after finding a great spot for the handstand picture… and a great head stand from Brian too! Did I mention it’s his 43rd birthday today? Happy birthday friend!

Activity #2
We headed to an outdoor public park that provides a range of free options for all ages.

A skate park next to a set of graffiti walls. Seriously! Instead of discouraging local artist, they provide a clean canvas and a viewing site.

These are rocks imbedded into the ground that you walk laps on for foot reflexology. With the different shapes, sizes and sharpness, each stone stimulates points on the bottom of your feet that are supposed to activate nerve points to naturally break up acid build up and rid of body ailments.

Activity #3
Aerobics in the park! Free instruction for the community to come out and get their heart rate up. This should be offered in every city! The music ranged from authentic Indian beats to North American country, Bon Jovi to gangster rap and my personal favorite of the day… Old school R&B funk!

Towards the end, the instructor called Brian and I up to the stage to lead the cool down. I didn’t realize I was with a “popular one”, the crowd loved him!

Activity #4
After all the muscle and mind excitement we head for dinner and a show. This center provides vegetarian meals including rice, egg, tofu, curry sauces, vegetables, pancake breads, and more. Mango milk tea or water with your meal and the only price they ask is a contribution that you feel is necessary.

The show? A set of traditional music, dance and performance by the locals. If you can imagine the brilliant sounds that mirror the colors and facial expressions of these magnificent people… I’m sure you can understand why tears would often peak from my eyes.

Three favorite special effects photos of the day! The first is a pond in the jungle followed by a monkey on a telephone wire. The third is looking back at Brian’s cafe from a balcony.

This sign was at the park. Simply posted and well put.

Categories: Edibles!, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: aerobics, exercise, jungle, Monkeys, park, Penang, pond, workout | 1 Comment

I-Love-Budapest

Posted on October 8, 2012 by erikamae82

Due to our small delay on the border, we arrive a bit late but that is nothing to stop sweet Niki greeting us with a huge smile and warm hug.

Here’s the dollhouse view from Niki’s adorable place. I personally love the men at work making there sandwiches on the job site.

Our day in the city of Budapest was complimented with amazing weather, perfect for a bike ride!
Tempting… But we went solo this ride.

Here are a few photos on the way to the local market.

Market time! We locked up the bikes and went for a walk.

This is not my favorite part of the market, but I’ll add a few pics to give you an idea. Imagine the smell of this isle… I’ll stick to the fresh fruit!

Next is a quick walk to stop for lunch.

No need to debate if we were up for the challenge to visit the Citadel, a 19th century fortress that sits on top of Gellert Hill. This trek is generally done by foot at a nice pace or in a bus creeping up the windy slopes. A bus? No way! We’ere hauling our bikes to the top of this thing if it takes all day! We don’t even let a slipped chain slow us down…Marshall to the rescue!

Marshall caught me cracking up at the fact that my camera wasn’t even on for the first few pictures (not seen here) that he took on the bridge.

This is where there are supposed to be a bunch of photos of us riding through beautiful greenery, and dirt paths, pushing up stairs and carrying our bikes up rock filled hills. Well, I was too busy doing all of those things so let’s just jump to the pictures at the top!

Of course this was the prime choice for the handstand shot!
“Buda” on the left and “Pest” on the right.

As if the artillery side wasn’t interesting enough, this young girl hidden away stopped me in my tracks. Not necessarily her amazing art piece, but just the entire energy that surrounded her and the painting in front of her.

What’s this? Don’t mind if I do! I must give huge credit to my amazing photographer Marshall, I had no idea he captured so many cool shots. Thanks pal!

After dominating the climb and enjoying the view we headed down to cross the famous chain bridge. Some photos along the way…

Brake… Hey look, it’s a Vegas sign! (For those of you just joining us, that’s where Marshall and I met).

Made it to the base of the bridge to find more stairs. We love stairs!

I forgot that I had left my camera on a this stormy effect. Glad I did, nice pics Marshall!

I would have been totally satisfied just seeing this beautiful city during the day, but energetic Niki was determined to get us out during sun down. The first evening we got to meet one of her good friends Balasz, one of the nicest, most knowledgeable tour guides I’ve come across so far.

Then we got to reunite with our buddy Jay! He was from the “Salzburg” post as one of the Irish Pub guests that helped us keep it going!

Here are the only night shots I snagged from two fantastic evening out. Entertainment full of unique clubs, Irish Pubs and outdoor lounges.

Check out the ladies room I found at one of the clubs… I feel sorry for the girls who had high heels.

Hungry on the walk home? Forget the slice-o-pizza, it’s a hummus bar!

Fun is up in Budapest as it’s time to make our way to Czech Republic. With the signs ahead, we have our stickers ready just in case Mr. Patrol man is doing his job (please see previous post).

Next stop, Prague!

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: bar, Bike, Budapest, club, drink, hill, Hungary, patrol, soup, travel, trek | 1 Comment

Salzburg, Austria – done in 24 hours

Posted on October 6, 2012 by erikamae82

I’m not sure if it was the excitement of arriving to a new place or the unmarked streets, but this place was a bit tricky to maneuver around. I don’t think we came to an intersection that had any 90 degree angles, but that just added to the character of this city. Stores built into sides of mountains, caves sitting outside of castles and uneven stone work has an enchanting look to it.

Most of the following pictures were taken from the car as we entered the city and swerved in and out of traffic, pedestrians, one way streets and bike paths.

This photo was taken during an uproar of laughter as we had circled the same path over and over looking for a way out. We finally came to a stop light that would lead us in the correct direction and as we approached our ever so desired right turn, we saw this. All of those signs are shouting, “you will not turn here!”, Hilarious!

After completing the maze of Salzburg, we spotted out a long strip of walkable streets and thought we’d give it a try.
The ambiance through here gave us both the feeling of “the holidays”. All of a sudden I had the craving for a hot beverage, a blanket and the sound of family and friends talking of old times by the fire.
The neatest part of the is quaint city is all of the hidden passage ways. If you blinked you may miss a minature doorway, or tiny alley leading to another road with more hidden paths. We decided to take a chance and see where it led…an open market, score!

To the 100% success rate of finding an Irish pub in every country… Austria, check!

Inside this pub looked like a scene from a movie. Small little arches decorated with stone and wooden columns, tiny chairs surrounding rock blocks and tall tables coming out of the ancient walls.

We stopped in to rest the feet and on our way out, Marshall says a simple hello to a girl sitting by herself. The smile that illuminated from this kind woman was felt instantly and then it began…

Meet Niki, she’s from Budapest, which happens to be one of our destinations on this road trip! What a great opportunity to get some suggestions from a local. Here are some snap shots from our evening that started with a hello and ended dancing till the sun was peaking over the castle on the hill.

Jay is the name of the gentleman next to me. He’s from Boston and added even more of a great vibe to the evening. I do believe he was the one that pointed out that we were in Austria, listening to American classic rock, watching euro futbol, in an Irish pub with a Hungarian and Belgium being served by a bartender from New Zealand. How much fun is that?!

By the end of the night sweet Niki had invited us to stay at her place when we get to Budapest and she would show us the local side of Hungary… Priceless!

The morning brings us stretched out in our car-o-accomidation with the idea of a quick hike before we depart for our next stop.

Real quick story: we wanted to climb to the top of this hill that had almost 400 stair steps and a stretch of hills. Remember the tricky roads? Well, trying to find a parking spot near the bottom was not looking possible. Through Marshall’s “Bond” moves, we find an open lot that had no signs. Were we legally allowed to park here… Would they tow our car?

After 30 seconds of debating the consequences, we both smiled and said “Let’s do this!”. Forget the casual hike to the view point, we have a time limit now to prevent the car from being locked up on the back of a monster truck. I truly wish there would have been a film crew following this 8 minute trek that should of been a peaceful hour of panoramic views.

To give you the best idea of this event, I’ll post every attempt to capture a view while sprinting up hill weaving in-between tourist. When viewing these pics, try to imagine the sound of “happy” coming from us, you know, the kind of laughter that force your eyes to water while searching for your next breath.

A sprint back down the hill and off we go. Next stop… Vienna!

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: car, castle, decorations, holidays, mountains, Pub, stairs, travel | 1 Comment

Atlanta in 5 days!

Posted on August 19, 2012 by erikamae82

Remember Marshall?

He was the chef I met in Las Vegas just a couple of months ago. We started chating about travels poolside at Ceasars Palace and before the end of the day, we made plans to reunite. High fives to a fellow traveler that sticks to his word!
This brings me to his residence in Atlanta Georgia for a whirlwind tour in 5 days.

Stone Mountain, at least the back side view anyway. My first excursion is to hike this beast!

The walk towards the base. There was an awesome kids activity set along the way, clearly puts McDonalds playground to shame.

Need a break mid climb? I suggest you don’t rest on this tree.

I wish the pictures could show how steep it is. Obviously it’s not “gear worthy” or some record setting incline, but still enough angle to make me feel like I accomplished something.
Love the captain pose Marshall!

Bonus to the mom with a baby on her back!

History written in stone.

We made it!

This little guy kept me smiling… Who wouldn’t want to jump rock to rock? I should of joined him.

Group photo!

These are the three attempts at an airborne picture. I don’t consider them a failure at all. I think I like capturing the pre and post jump better than the mid-flight photo. We look so happy in our awkward poses.

I love Stone Mountain!

SATURDAY PIG ROAST!
Marshall found out that I had never been to a roast before. This brought him to plan a shindig at his place for me and his friends.

*Please note some of these images might be difficult to observe depending on your eating beliefs.

Prepping in the kitchen!

Kim (the trooper in the pictures above and Marshall’s friend fom college)dominated the bacon and beans. I should also mention that her sauce for the slaw and cucumber salad should be documented and sold around the world… Scrumptious!

Ooh, my job! I got to play with the fruit and veggies.

Marshall and his spices. He’s like a little kid experimenting with a new set of toys.

The main course before the roasting begins.

Spicy time!

Bringing on the heat!

What’s he looking at? Is it the upsatirs neighbor with their window open or possibly the fun fact that we have the flame directly below the sprinkler sign.

Time to rotate and add more coals.

I personally love the hug happening in the background.

And the feast begins!

DISC GOLF!
Otherwise known as “Frisbie golf” or “Frolfing”. Each individual player throws a flying disc at a target with the objective of ending in the fewest number of throws. The game is actually played in about 40 countries around the world.

This course is gorgeous!

This is Kim (from the pig roast) and Brendon. These two are absolutley a blast to be around with their relaxed vibe and friendly jokes.

In action!

Turns out you’re supposed to avoid the bushes… But I love trees!

Why not wrap it up with a huge slide. If you could of heard the horrific sounds of sweaty skin being peeled off of grown adults in unexpected pain… It was hilarious!

I cheated and took the short route.

My favorite local business goes to Sugar Moon Bake Shop! A desert shop specializing in cupcakes and other delights. Baked desserts aren’t the highest ranking on my sweets list, but this place was creative, cozy and adorable! Plus, all the treats we brought to the roast from this shop was a popular hit (proven by the lovely ladies that even took another cupcake to go).

I didn’t grab as many photos as I should of so please check out the website for tempting details!

www.sugarmoonbakeshop.com .

Took a walk around a nearby park. What a beautiful setting in the middle of a major city.

Can you see the flame next to the lovely couple?

Areas for your kids to play in (either paw babies or the human ones).

Loved this duo! “Hmmm sweetie, should we watch tv again tonight or go do pilates in the park with a city skyline view”?

Follow the beat! Percussion is one of my favorite musical sounds. This open street group gathers every week and spills the contagious desire to shake your hips.
Today there was a woman “feelin it” as she belly danced her smile around the small square.

Categories: Accommodations, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Atlanta, Disc golf, food, Georgia, Hiking, Pork roast, Stone mountain, Sugarmoon | Leave a comment

Kadooment!

Posted on August 13, 2012 by erikamae82

This festival of Barbados was originally celebrated in the 1800s by slaves at the end of the sugar-cane harvest. A procession of carts and animals decorated with flowers would bring the last load of cane to the plantation owner, who would then provide a feast for the laborers. Now, Crop Over is the most anticipated event on the island. It begins in June and finishes strong on the first Monday of August with Grand Kadooment. This massive parade includes participants dancing their way through the local streets to Soca and Calypso music while dressed in vibrant, eye-catching costumes!

So you can imagine when Ryan asked if i wanted to join in… My response? Of course! All he needed was my measurements, (before I knew the details) I thought, “Cool, I might get a neat shirt or maybe matching shorts”. (This is where you can enter either his mischievous laugh or my nieve giggle).

Here is what I measured into:

This is Jane. I’ll call her a new friend, but she felt more like a sister. Comforting and welcoming with a noticeable warmth… what a joy to be around!
Here she is with and her husband Aldo there son Ethan. When I asked how soon the little guy got to “jump” in the carnival, dad said “next year” while mom just laughed. On average the locals usually start between 14-17 years of age depending on the household.

Its 7:45 in the morning and the troop is ready to hit the 6 mile parade!

If I need to justify why the drink trucks are already up and serving adult beverages at 8am…Let me remind you that I’m in Barbados.

First and only stop (the structured part of the day) is the arena where each “band” gets to cross the main stage and basically strut their stuff while representing their colors.

After this talent show, the crowd blends and we keep on whining and chipping away the celebration.
NOTE: Please see the J’ouvert post to recall the dance definitions of chipping and whining.

Here is a glimpse of some other varieties of costumes.

Although there are thousands of people, you are constantly running into friends. Some slow down to wait for the drink truck while others bounce ahead to their favorite song.

It’s miss Sarah Jane!

This is two of the dozen music trucks. Some are live bands, others have awesome Dj’s that keep the groups moving!

… And it keeps on going…

At some point in the journey, you’ve got to hop on a wall!

I loved involving the people that came to observe. Thank you for the idea and encouragement Ryan!

In Ryan’s words “Go big or go home”.

This little girl asked for one if his beads… Adorable!

Ooh, another friend! This is Dwayne, you may recognize him from the Segway Polo team that I described before. I met this fun loving angel in California last year. Whenever I mention his name, my mom usually interrupts me with “Awh, I just love Dwayne… He’s one of my favorites”.

Melodie and Kris… Quality energy. They jump every year, except that tiny bump you can’t see is their little peanut that will be here by next kadooment! Congrats to wonderful people adding to this magical planet!

The Police station is known as a fine place to slow your trek and take a moment to let your presence be known. I was told that in years past, full costumed people have ran in, hopped on the tables and danced for the employees. Take notice, the doors are now closed. Eh, handstand shot!

Well, no police station fun… so let’s just play friendly with the authorities then!

When the heat is at it’s peak, it’s so nice to run into the water fountains. They have hoses spraying for all involved that need a cooling off.

The temperature has been climbing all day with a few sprinkles here and there. That is the main reason you’ll notice less and less head pieces as the day goes on. I gave mine to a little girl on the side lines. Either that or you try to save it and end up with what looks like a drowned rooster on your head.

Feathers tickling my face before the rain…

…and her poor head piece after the soaking.

More creative beauty!

Random snap shots

During the final stretch (after 6 miles) we follow the coast with several options for food, different drinks and… Hold up, “Did you say food?”

I don’t think Ryan has seen me so ready to devour anything that was out in front of me. The last pic is me patiently, if you call it that, waiting for some edible nutrients.

“Thank you” doesn’t quite capture the gratitude I have for the friends of Barbados that made this trip what it was. Cheers to great times, priceless memories and plans for next year! All my love.

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Calypso, Carnival, Chipping, Costume, Crop over, Dancing, Feathers, Festival, Kadooment, Parade, Soca, Sugar cane, Whining | 3 Comments