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I always enjoy coming to Atlanta and was expecting to blog as per usual. However, after waking up to a cracked laptop screen a few days ago, it's been slightly hard to muster the courage to use it. (I'm currently on Dr3's) I cringe everytime I turn it on. Just know that I haven't let it stop me from smiling. When it happened I pouted for a little, but quickly took a deep breath and decided to GET OVER IT. It's just a 'thing' and can be replaced.

My advice is this: NEVER EVER leave your laptop on the floor.

xo,
S

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I'll be hitting the open road with my homeslice in a week's time! Road trips have become a permanent fixture of my summers for more years then I can count. There have been long ones and short ones with lots of funny and slightly frightening stories. I've done it in both a large group and alone, but of these two options I obviously choose the former. Having someone to talk to always beats talking to yourself or talking on the phone.

Anytime I discuss my road travels, people are usually shocked by my "bravery" and will to drive "for such a loooong time". After hearing this from so many different people, I've been inspired to give some insight on what one needs to accomplish a successful road trip.

Traveling for 2 or 20 hours can be mentally and physically exhausting. My longest trip alone so far has been 17 hours. It was supposed to be a 15 hour one, but was delayed by construction and traffic. Either way, I hope this list helps!

1. GPS: DUH! These gadgets have become more accessible, however, please refrain from buying garbage. My recommendation is Garmin all the way. Remember to update your maps at least once a year to avoid getting lost or being unable to find the new restaurant or attraction you're looking for.


2. Printed directions and map:For those who haven't crossed over to the wonderful land of GPS, then don't forget your printed directions. Mapquest and Google Maps are exceptional tools and they're free (and .99 cents!) If you choose this route then my suggestion is simple: print 2 copies and keep the second somewhere safe. A friend of mine had her only copy of directions fly right out her window at the beginning of her 1000 mile road trip.


3. Don't rush: Speeding tickets can put a damper on anyone's road trip fun. Give yourself enough time and be sure to include gas stops and bath room breaks, possible nap times, impromptu outlet mall shopping, or (God forbid) getting lost.


4. Sunnies: The sun can be especially draining on a long trip and squinting for several hours hurts! Bring some comfortable sunglasses that allow you to see out of the corner of your eyes to check your blindspots.


5. iPod: Must have your favorite music! But what's even better about having your iPod or other Mp3 device is that you can listen to books, movies, or TV shows. On my last trip the music wasn't enough to keep me going, so I started playing episodes of Seinfled to keep me from falling into ultimate boredom. Listen only, don't watch!


6. Munchies: Bring some snacks and drinks to fuel your body on the way. I like to bring crunchy things like carrots and crackers. Water is a good drink to have, just try to avoid anything more than a few small sips at a time. You don't want to have to stop alot along the way to use the rest room. I like to bring a small cooler to keep drinks cool. Caffeinated drinks are great for staying alert. My favorite is Starbucks Double Shot drink they're sold EVERYWHERE.
   
   
7. Cell phone and accessories: If you decide to travel alone a charged cell phone will come in handy. You'll be able to call friends and/or call for help if you need it. Make sure you have a car charger and a hands-free device.


8. Cash and coins: Don't get caught at a toll road with no change. It happened to me once and instead of paying a dollar I had to pay waaaayyy moooore! (I refuse to divulge that information)


9. Pillow and blanket: It's OK to pull over at a rest stop and CHILL. That's what they're their for! Stay in the lighted areas at night time for your safety.


10. Camera: I never leave home without it. Sometimes the scenery is breathtaking. Snap a couple pictures while you're on the way.

Did I miss anything? Leave a comment and let me know what works for you. Happy road trippin' everybody!





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Today was phenomenal! I hiked my butt up Canyon Lake Drive towards the famous Hollywood sign to exercise the innermost tourist in me. Then I headed to Hollywood Blvd; you won't believe what I saw! I'll share the greatness with you all very soon.

xoxo,
Sammy-Jo


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After touching down at LAX, my friends and I headed to the Getty Center. The museum is filled with Getty’s collection of Western Art from the Middle Ages to the present. The art is second to the absolutely breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the beautiful white architecture.

After finding a parking spot, we headed to the Tram, a rapid transit styled transport system that took us to where the museum was. We were quickly directed to watch the Orientation film, a 9 minute video explaining how The Getty is set up and who J. Paul Getty is. There are 4 buildings, N S E W, that surround the courtyard. Each building houses various European paintings, drawings, manuscripts, sculpture and decorative arts, and European and American Photographs.

It is now officially summer and during this season there is nothing I want to do more than travel! It’s been a long and arduous winter, didn’t think I’d see the sun again, but thank God because Mr. Sunshine looks like he’s here to stay. I’m moving about myself and I wanted to share the phenomenon which is the Megabus.

Let me start by stating the obvious. I’m sure there are plenty of us that have at least one bus horror story – an unfortunate happening while traveling from one city to another by bus. Something along the lines of stranger starts a super random conversation and you being the nice person you are you politely smile and nod maybe remove an ear bud to listen. There are several characters I can recall with some twisted tale about how long they’ve been on the bus etc. Not to fear ladies and gents because the Megabus hold up to its name.

I don’t enjoy paying $200+ for the international fees charged when flying out of my homebase in T.O. to American cities. Therefore, I’m able to avoid the fees by flying out of Buffalo airport for more than half the price I would have paid flying from home.