August 03, 2005 - 9:45 PM
Well, as I anticipated, August is off to a busy start.
On Monday, Geneva and I left the house at 6:45am and were dropped off at a nearby hotel by Amelia to catch the Airporter. We arrived at SeaTac by 9:00am
and our flight left a little late, around 10:20. I took my fanny-pack, which is what I use these days as a purse, and a backpack as my only luggage, making
things easy to deal with carry-ons. The 40 minute or so flight to Pasco was fairly uneventful with the exception that it was on one of those puddle-jumper
planes and Geneva didn't seem to like the noise and vibration any more than I did. She didn't get up or shake, but I could just tell she was a little
more anxious about the ride than usual.
I met up with Kristi from the Red Lion at around 11:15 and we rode in the hotel shuttle the 2 blocks to the hotel. As soon as I was checked in and before
heading to my room, we found a suitable relieving area for my sweet, patient girl. Then it was up to room 1303, a very nice suite which even had a big
jacuzi tub in it which was calling my name. But I was up there a whole 5 minutes and then went down to meet Kristi.
First we walked across the parking lot so that I could get a very needed latte. It was hot out, so this one was iced. Then it was back to the hotel for
a tour of the meeting space and layout. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I remembered things. An hour later I went up to my room to get Geneva
some water and hang up the next days clothes. Within 20 minutes I was having lunch with about 12 or so chapter members from the UBTC (United Blind of
TriCities) and 2 members from the Yakima chapter. This was a working lunch covering some of the chapter responsibilities and expectations, answering questions
about the upcoming convention, etc. But mostly it was a fun time of visiting and sharing. In fact, one of the people there was Steve, the gentleman who
received Nemo in March. It was so nice to finally be able to meet him and his wife Marlene, and the bonus was meeting his granddaughter, Katie.
Directly following lunch, we all went on a tour of the facility. This hotel is very spacious and will assist us in holding a successful convention comfortably.
In the midst of that tour, Joleen appeared on the scene from Walla Walla. She is the President of our state guide dog user group. So after the chapter
members headed home, we went into the room where exhibits will be held and talked exhibits talk with Bill & Nancy. Then they took off for home and grandchildren
and Joleen, Janice (the convention coordinator), Bill the local chapter President), Kristi & I all searched for the best relieving areas. We located 3,
1 off the meeting space, and 2 that connect between the 2 sleeping wings. By then, Frank, who is our sound guy, showed up and we all headed into the coffee
shop for a drink and to discuss room assignments. Then it was off to the Project Room to meet with 3 representatives from the 3 groups offering to volunteer
during our convention. Just as they left, the couple who will be helping keep our hospitality rooms stocked during convention arrived for dinner. Kristi
surprised all of us by taking us into the Bin20 for some fine dining. Too bad Janice & Bill had to go home. But we did have a very nice time.
Geneva and I made it back to our room a little after 9:00pm. I had every intention of getting a pot of coffee going and running a hot bath, but instead
I fell onto the big bed and fell fast asleep. I woke up long enough to call Lyle and say goodnight and to climb under the covers, but boy was I pooped.
The next morning, Geneva and I were in the lobby by 7:15 ready to go to the airport. I bought a hot latte to take with me and our plane was on time. We
caught the 10:20 airporter back to Silverdale and Amelia picked us up a little after noon. Geneva was so happy to see that van. As soon as the door slid
open she jumped in doing a happy dance. We came home and lied low the rest of the day.
Today was pretty low key too with the exception of grocery shopping and a short visit to my friend Meka's house where my friend Michelle is staying temporarily
until she gets into her new place.
My daily life is usually busy, and this summer has certainly been no exception. I can honestly say though, Geneva is living up to every hope I have had
for her with travel and new experiences. She's a dream come true to work and to love.
Hugs,
Cindy & Geneva
