Our A/C in the house was not very good a keeping the place cool. So we bit the bullet and got a Master Cool. For thse who live in EL Paso, know you cannot survive without a cooling system.
They came to install the unit this moring. I tried to take pictures but I got some ugly looks. So I just ducked back in the house. :P
Friday, June 30, 2006
Monday, June 12, 2006
Beauty Divine
It's a rare and beautiful thing when an performance moves me to tears. It even rarer when it gets set in my heart and plays in my mind every now and again. One such performance was Shizuka Arakawa's long program in this year's winter games.
When I first saw it I was still working nights at Comfort Suites. NBC would replay the evening show late at night. I would wait to watch it and avoid all contact of results that would spoil it for me. So there I was all alone, folding laundry. As each skater went up, I found their performances, good but not the best.
Then she came to the ice and a hush came over the crowd. Vanessa Mae's Fantasy On Puccini's Turandot, played as Arakawa floated along. Each move filled with her emotions touching all who watched. I was entranced, each spin, each jump drew me into the story she wove on her blades. As she came near to the close a tear ran down my face as I felt my heart strings tug at the sheer beauty of her masterpiece. It was perfection, and the world thanked her for it!
If you haven't seen it in a while, please visit http://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes/5072356/detail.html
Shizuka Arakawa is now and will forever be my favorite Figure Skater!
When I first saw it I was still working nights at Comfort Suites. NBC would replay the evening show late at night. I would wait to watch it and avoid all contact of results that would spoil it for me. So there I was all alone, folding laundry. As each skater went up, I found their performances, good but not the best.
Then she came to the ice and a hush came over the crowd. Vanessa Mae's Fantasy On Puccini's Turandot, played as Arakawa floated along. Each move filled with her emotions touching all who watched. I was entranced, each spin, each jump drew me into the story she wove on her blades. As she came near to the close a tear ran down my face as I felt my heart strings tug at the sheer beauty of her masterpiece. It was perfection, and the world thanked her for it!
If you haven't seen it in a while, please visit http://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes/5072356/detail.html
Shizuka Arakawa is now and will forever be my favorite Figure Skater!
Friday, June 09, 2006
A Desert Wonder
There is nothing more welcomed then a summer shower here in the harsh desert. I perched on the window seat and watched with anticipation as the first few drops fell from the heavens. Each one falling faster and faster rising to the climax of nature's symphony. A warm breeze floated about creating a dance of air and water. I took a deep breath letting the crisp scent of the air fill my nostrils.
A smile came to my face, knowing that rain showers like this are life's little wonders. Each one should be cherished, because you never know when it may come back again.
A smile came to my face, knowing that rain showers like this are life's little wonders. Each one should be cherished, because you never know when it may come back again.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Lookie what I found!
I was goiong though my old archives and found a bunch of pictures. Some very few people have had the chance to see. So, I thought why not share them with the world. My first installment is my brother's wedding. This took place in Lousiana on June 17, 2002. Its amazing how much my skills and camera have improved. Either way, its fun to revisit old memories.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Cheddar Goldfish
Ever wonder why we do things? Well, I have been question my own motives a lot lately. Like why did I leave Comfort Suites? Was it really me who was suffering or everyone else? And do I REALLY want to become a teacher? Everyone knows I dislike teenagers AKA "high schoolies."
Am I running my life or is everyone else running it for me. *sigh*
My mind is a mess right now. All jumbled and mixed up like the pouch of goldfish I'm eating. In the commercial Finn left his bag for his dream. Why can't I? I'm sure his cheddar family is hurting(a side from being eaten), but it didn't stop him. Ah, but then again we all can't be cute little tasty cheddar fish-shaped crackers, can we?
Am I running my life or is everyone else running it for me. *sigh*
My mind is a mess right now. All jumbled and mixed up like the pouch of goldfish I'm eating. In the commercial Finn left his bag for his dream. Why can't I? I'm sure his cheddar family is hurting(a side from being eaten), but it didn't stop him. Ah, but then again we all can't be cute little tasty cheddar fish-shaped crackers, can we?
Thursday, June 01, 2006
I <3 Torley!
Meet Torley Linden! One of the newest Linden Lab employees and the sweetest person you will ever meet. In Second Life she is know the grid over, for her love of watermelons and outgoing personality.
In real life she is know as Torley Wong. A very creative technomixer who after spending most of his life making highly rated music, lost his hearing. He cannot mix any longer but his amazing music is still played everywhere, including in Second Life. Want to know more, visit: www.Torley.com
There you can see what this punk princess is doing in Second Life, and download his great music.
In real life she is know as Torley Wong. A very creative technomixer who after spending most of his life making highly rated music, lost his hearing. He cannot mix any longer but his amazing music is still played everywhere, including in Second Life. Want to know more, visit: www.Torley.com
There you can see what this punk princess is doing in Second Life, and download his great music.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Lizard-riffic!
Just another day and another famous face in the halls of the Comfort Suites. This time it was very unique Lizard Man!
He caught me off guard when he approached the desk for towels. My eyes popped at the sight of him and I knew I HAD to get his autograph!
For most people I imagine the thing that would stick with them most when they meet him face to face would be his green skin or brow implants. For me it was his nails!
Yes, his nails. He had the most beautiful nails I had ever seen on a man. They were clean and neatly filed. Like he had fresh a manicure. You would expect a man who has "FREAK" tattooed on his chest to have dirty, bitten, or even oddly painted nails. But no his were amazing. I guess this gives new meaning to appearances are not everything.
Not to mention he is really intelligent. He's one of many people I have the utmost respect and admiration for. He is not afraid to take his art to an extreme level!
Oh, for those who don't know who the Lizard Man is (uhh you need to watch more T.V.) here is a link to his website. He also has a blog were he posted his little run in with the El Paso P.D.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
What did I do wrong? So much has changed in my world and I can't seem to change fast enough. Getting up everyday has become harder and harder. Hell, yesterday I slept for more than 16 hours. Why, I really don't know?
I can't seem to talk about it to anyone, anymore. I can't talk to my husband because he doesn't want to hear it anymore. I can't talk to my parents because they think my misery is stemming from him. Callie, well she has changes of her own to deal with...
...GAH...
there I go again always thinking about everyone else but me. It's getting exhausting to live this way. And it seems like no one cares or appreciates what I do. I've become this slave. A slave to work, my bosses, my family and my friends. Most of them don't even know it! For once I want to be a selfish little brat, who's only concern is ME. Why, is it so hard for me to do that?
I can't seem to talk about it to anyone, anymore. I can't talk to my husband because he doesn't want to hear it anymore. I can't talk to my parents because they think my misery is stemming from him. Callie, well she has changes of her own to deal with...
...GAH...
there I go again always thinking about everyone else but me. It's getting exhausting to live this way. And it seems like no one cares or appreciates what I do. I've become this slave. A slave to work, my bosses, my family and my friends. Most of them don't even know it! For once I want to be a selfish little brat, who's only concern is ME. Why, is it so hard for me to do that?
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Yay, I got noticed!
I just found out that my two of my pictures got featured in a online travel guide. How cool is that! ^-^
You can download it here :
http://www.schmap.com/app/guides.jsp?2004s01
You can download it here :
http://www.schmap.com/app/guides.jsp?2004s01
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Sometimes I hate being a Hispanic woman....
Ok, I love my parents but I'm not too fond of my culture. I get tired of having to answer the question of why I don't speak spanish. Everytime some "machismo" guy comes in that is the first thing that comes out of thier mouth. Like it's shameful or something.
Then they make it a point to ask...what's you last name..your name is Christina so you should know spanish, that kinda shit. It really ticks me off!
I'm American! I speak english..end of story!!!
Then they make it a point to ask...what's you last name..your name is Christina so you should know spanish, that kinda shit. It really ticks me off!
I'm American! I speak english..end of story!!!
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Grandma we miss you.
On March 10, 2006 my Grandma passed away. I miss her dearly but I know she is safe in heaven now watch over all of us.
God bless you Grandma and I hope to see you again in heaven.
God bless you Grandma and I hope to see you again in heaven.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
The Secret Life of Hotels: Show me the Money!!!
Ok, you found a hotel. It's time to make a deal! That's right the BIG secret of hotels is that on most nights the price is negotiable! Thats why booking direct is so important. The front desk has the power to change rates based on a scale given set by the general manager.
The Rack Rate: the rack rate is the highest rate we can offer a room. When a guest off the street comes in and asks for a rate, this is the rate we quote them. If the guest seems apprehensive, we then offer a discounted rate. As a guest its good pratice to ask for a discount before you commit or jump to another hotel. Like "Do you have a manager's special?" that sort of thing. Most of the time the clerk will instantly drop the rate. If they hold on the rate, this means that the hotel is near full and so are the surrounding areas. Nights like this we know people will pay the full rate, if not you someone else.
As a guest the worst thing you can do is go hotel hopping. This is a pratice that really gets me mad. Guest come in and out just comparing the rack rates. Of course you can bet they will never get a good deal on a room.
The Base Rate: this is the lowest a clerk can give without suffering a loss. This rate is given rarely. To be eligible for the base you either have to stay for a week's term or be long time regulars to the hotel. Only 5% of negations end in this rate.
Reservations: If you reserve early we give you an Average Rate. Most of the time we guess on this rate. This is a guess based on how many reservations we have and if we expect to sell out based on history. These rates are the most negotiable. And if you want the best deal, this is where you do it. ^-^
Final note: be nice to the clerk helping you. After all they are the ones controlling how much you pay. There has been many times where I didn't budge on a rate because of a mean guest.
The Rack Rate: the rack rate is the highest rate we can offer a room. When a guest off the street comes in and asks for a rate, this is the rate we quote them. If the guest seems apprehensive, we then offer a discounted rate. As a guest its good pratice to ask for a discount before you commit or jump to another hotel. Like "Do you have a manager's special?" that sort of thing. Most of the time the clerk will instantly drop the rate. If they hold on the rate, this means that the hotel is near full and so are the surrounding areas. Nights like this we know people will pay the full rate, if not you someone else.
As a guest the worst thing you can do is go hotel hopping. This is a pratice that really gets me mad. Guest come in and out just comparing the rack rates. Of course you can bet they will never get a good deal on a room.
The Base Rate: this is the lowest a clerk can give without suffering a loss. This rate is given rarely. To be eligible for the base you either have to stay for a week's term or be long time regulars to the hotel. Only 5% of negations end in this rate.
Reservations: If you reserve early we give you an Average Rate. Most of the time we guess on this rate. This is a guess based on how many reservations we have and if we expect to sell out based on history. These rates are the most negotiable. And if you want the best deal, this is where you do it. ^-^
Final note: be nice to the clerk helping you. After all they are the ones controlling how much you pay. There has been many times where I didn't budge on a rate because of a mean guest.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Jumping ship, or How NOT to run a hotel....
No, I'm not quitting, but everyone else is. Yes, I just got word that Casey found a new job and is only able to work one day a week from now on. That's three people who have left while I was here with no replacement in sight. It started with Greg. A super sweet guy who kinda had a mutual falling out. This was just before the holiday season. I figured I would see a new face in the coming weeks, but no. They figured it was cheaper to make us work harder. Now the shit is really hitting the fan.
So note: if you are or planning to become a hotel manger, treat your desk clerks like GODS. After all they are the ones that bring you the money.
So note: if you are or planning to become a hotel manger, treat your desk clerks like GODS. After all they are the ones that bring you the money.
Friday, January 20, 2006
It's the cold and flu season!
Yes, I caught a cold thanks to Andy. When we went to see the house on Monday he was all sniffly. I knew I would get it. I always get sick. :P At leats I had a few days off the relax from work.
Oh, and now we are going to me MORE shorthanded! Willie (not my William mind you) gave his 2 weeks. That leaves me and Donna to do the night shift...*sigh* this is going to SUCK!!!
Oh, and now we are going to me MORE shorthanded! Willie (not my William mind you) gave his 2 weeks. That leaves me and Donna to do the night shift...*sigh* this is going to SUCK!!!
Saturday, January 14, 2006
The Secret Life of Hotels: Finding the right one.
As most of you know I have spent many years studying and working in the hotel business. Heck, some of you were right there studying with me! Well, after many months on the job, I noticed the lack of knowlage the public has about the hotel system. So as a service to the public, I have devised a on going column. Not only will you save money on your next trip, but you might make a desk clerk very happy.
So, you decided to stay in a hotel for your next trip. How do you know you are getting a good deal. Well the answer is you don't. Since service is not a something you can mass produce, it hard to tell what you are getting into. That's why research is key. Before you book any room look at what they offer, location, and any awards they may have won. This is why many people in our field still go through travel agents.
A professor once told me that a travel agent it like a good barber. You have to trust them with your outcome. If it good, you will come to them back again and again. This is true. But, why go to one in the first place? Well, agents unlike most jobs are given trips by companies in order to give them an experience to sell their product. So they can give you a real world experience of what a trip might be like. Sadly thanks to internet travel agents, most have had to charge a small booking fee to stay in business. But its pennies to compared the quality of your trip and hotel experience!
So what of the internet? Well, if convince is your game than by all means go for it. But here's some things to be aware of: all hotel descriptions are posted by a hotel employee not by an agent who's actually stayed there. I know, I've done one for Hotels.com. We are given a email with a small box and asked to describe the hotel. Of course we candy coat everything with nice words like "sparkling indoor pool and spa." And guest reviews are sometimes posted by employees of the company. So be weary. Oh there are more pros and cons to the internet that I will get to on the next chapter.
Finally, you could call the hotel directly. This is one of the best ways to find out about the hotel. The desk clerk can keep you up to date with any changes on services and amenities, not to mention location and all that good stuff. But call during slow times, about 1PM to 3PM, if you have a lot of questions. You won't get much out of us during the busy hours.
So, you decided to stay in a hotel for your next trip. How do you know you are getting a good deal. Well the answer is you don't. Since service is not a something you can mass produce, it hard to tell what you are getting into. That's why research is key. Before you book any room look at what they offer, location, and any awards they may have won. This is why many people in our field still go through travel agents.
A professor once told me that a travel agent it like a good barber. You have to trust them with your outcome. If it good, you will come to them back again and again. This is true. But, why go to one in the first place? Well, agents unlike most jobs are given trips by companies in order to give them an experience to sell their product. So they can give you a real world experience of what a trip might be like. Sadly thanks to internet travel agents, most have had to charge a small booking fee to stay in business. But its pennies to compared the quality of your trip and hotel experience!
So what of the internet? Well, if convince is your game than by all means go for it. But here's some things to be aware of: all hotel descriptions are posted by a hotel employee not by an agent who's actually stayed there. I know, I've done one for Hotels.com. We are given a email with a small box and asked to describe the hotel. Of course we candy coat everything with nice words like "sparkling indoor pool and spa." And guest reviews are sometimes posted by employees of the company. So be weary. Oh there are more pros and cons to the internet that I will get to on the next chapter.
Finally, you could call the hotel directly. This is one of the best ways to find out about the hotel. The desk clerk can keep you up to date with any changes on services and amenities, not to mention location and all that good stuff. But call during slow times, about 1PM to 3PM, if you have a lot of questions. You won't get much out of us during the busy hours.
Contract Pending
Woot! I like those words! Yes ladies and gentlemen we almost have the house. After some negotaions the lady got off her high horse and settled on our offer. Finally, I don't have to suffer the thought of "spending time" with my husband in my childhood home. Yes, it feels akward...
Monday, January 09, 2006
Crossing fingers for a new home!
William and I have spent the weekend looking at houses. We have been wanting to move on our own for a while now. We saw one that we fell in love with! And last night we made a bid on it! I do hope the buyers accept it. It's the perfect home for us.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
A happy new year?
*sigh* What a pathic new year's eve this is! Guess were I am. Yup, at work! I celebrated by folding sheets all by myself. Whoo hoo, this year is starting out, great...:P 3 nights in a row of all night, non-stop folding...yippie!
Sometimes I think the job is making me a grinch. It sucks not being able to celebrate holidays. Well, what did save my night were the guys in 321! They gave me a beer to celebrate. They even offered me more when they came back. They are so sweet!
Sometimes I think the job is making me a grinch. It sucks not being able to celebrate holidays. Well, what did save my night were the guys in 321! They gave me a beer to celebrate. They even offered me more when they came back. They are so sweet!
Friday, November 25, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving!
Well I guess it's over. And yes I worked today! Sucks, huh? Thats the plight of the hotel business. When everyone is on vacation we work or bums off. And boy these guests are picky tonight. I think it was all the turkey. :P
I was able to do stuff today! We went to my uncle's house for dinner. Everyone was there. It was a blast! It reminded me of Thanksgivings as a child. Danny was the only one who wasn't there. He was with his In-Laws. I'm just lucky that my whole family is in El Paso. ^-^
Afterward Will and I made our own turkey. DEEP FRIED! It was fun. My Father in-law came over as well as my dad, who looked on with curosity. We fried the thing in the front on the rocks. Good thing El Paso winters are mild. We didn't even need a coat! BTW it was GOOD! We are so doing it again. Maybe for Chistmas.
I was able to do stuff today! We went to my uncle's house for dinner. Everyone was there. It was a blast! It reminded me of Thanksgivings as a child. Danny was the only one who wasn't there. He was with his In-Laws. I'm just lucky that my whole family is in El Paso. ^-^
Afterward Will and I made our own turkey. DEEP FRIED! It was fun. My Father in-law came over as well as my dad, who looked on with curosity. We fried the thing in the front on the rocks. Good thing El Paso winters are mild. We didn't even need a coat! BTW it was GOOD! We are so doing it again. Maybe for Chistmas.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Damn Heriety!!!
THANK YOU SWEETIE!!! Tonight I was running earily to work so I stopped off at the Dimaond Shamrock near here to get some Amped. I was feeling good for the first few hours, then my Hypertension kicked in. I couln't focus, and my heart was pounding. I called Will and he rushed over with my pills. And this was in the middle of my shift. He's my hero. ^-^ *kissies*
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