I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Introduction => The IHD Family - Our Members => Topic started by: paris on January 30, 2009, 08:43:45 AM

Title: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on January 30, 2009, 08:43:45 AM
She is on her way and I have already shed some tears.  A month in Paris - oh to be 26 and free again!!   I am hoping she posts pictures of her explorations.  She knows the city well, and will be fine but Mom can't help but worry a little.  She will have email access, so her work with the Kidney Walk will go on and hopefully she will post here so we know she is alive and well!  (and not married!!)      I am sure I will be here spending lots of time, keeping myself from missing her   :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: okarol on January 30, 2009, 08:46:35 AM

Oh boy! Wish I could go too! One of my best friends lives in Paris - she knows all the great places to be, the art and the FOOD! If AlohaBeth needs ANYTHING let me know!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on January 30, 2009, 08:51:32 AM
Should I wait to send that Ghiradelli's 10 pound Chocolate Bar  ;D

I promise not to talk about her in chat. But you know if you want to talk, we are there late at night in chat.  ;D :cuddle; :waving;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Sluff on January 30, 2009, 08:55:10 AM
What? and she didn't take me? WTF.    :rofl; 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on January 30, 2009, 08:59:07 AM
Well she offered to take me Sluff, but I told her no, take Sluff instead, he needs a vacation. ;D
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: MandaMe1986 on January 30, 2009, 09:18:55 AM
oh how wonderful  :2thumbsup; I want to go
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paul.karen on January 30, 2009, 09:21:35 AM
A whole month  that is to COOL.
Sure she will have a blast.  And i agree Paris to be 26 and free.  :thumbup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on January 30, 2009, 11:51:22 PM
We miss her already!!

hang in there paris..... *hugs*
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on January 31, 2009, 02:38:10 AM
Lucky there is the internet, cell phone, and pictures. I she  brought a laptop, maybe voice chat with web cam?
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on January 31, 2009, 09:34:07 AM
Thanks to the late nighters who hung out with me last night.  I woke up this morning to an email saying she was there and getting ready to go out for lunch.   You have to love flight tracker sites so you can see where the plane is.   And the adventure begins!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on January 31, 2009, 04:12:52 PM
When I was tracking her flight, the line of progression only went half way. Next thing I see is that the flight ended and landed in France. Tried refreshing the screen throughout to.

Glad she made it as expected.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on January 31, 2009, 04:25:16 PM
What would I have done if suddenly I didn't see the plane on the tracker site?  I would have freaked out!  I am glad I went to sleep.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: kitkatz on January 31, 2009, 05:31:05 PM
She is going to have an unbelievable time!   Wish I were there, too!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on January 31, 2009, 05:34:52 PM
Et moi aussi! 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Bajanne on January 31, 2009, 05:35:48 PM
I am SO jealous!   26, and in Paris!!  Wow!!

[By the way, my soon to be 26 year old was conceived when I was studying in France!]
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on January 31, 2009, 05:37:26 PM
Where did you study bajanne?  I did my third year of university in Toulouse and spent a year in Nice.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Bajanne on January 31, 2009, 05:53:43 PM
I was at the Centre Audio-Visuel de Langues Modernes,(CAVILAM)  in Vichy (under the University of Clermont-Ferrand)  There I did my Stage Pédagogique.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: kellyt on January 31, 2009, 06:28:04 PM
 I can't wait to hear all about it!    What a wonderful daughter you have, Paris!    :clap;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: thegrammalady on January 31, 2009, 08:20:20 PM
beth is a daughter you can be very proud of. what an adventure, i hope she shares with us.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Wattle on February 01, 2009, 03:29:41 AM


[By the way, my soon to be 26 year old was conceived when I was studying in France!]

 :o :o  This will not happen to AB Paris, so you can relax o.k.

I hope my children grow to be as independent as AB, and are able to travel the world having adventure after adventure.   :cuddle;


Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: pelagia on February 01, 2009, 06:12:56 AM
We were able to take my son with us on a trip to Europe when he was only ten.  At the time, I wondered if it was worth the expense. Then he said this to me --  "Mom, everyone in the world is different, but they are also the same, aren't they?"  -- and I decided it was one of the best investments I ever made.

I hope Aloha Beth has a grand time.  And, I hope she is eating macaroons.  A macaroon in Paris is like nothing else on earth!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Wenchie58 on February 01, 2009, 08:07:36 AM
Here's hoping she has a wonderful time. And happy thoughts for Mom,
who I know will worry.  Just remember we are here for you when you
have those "missing her" times!

 :cuddle;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 01, 2009, 10:35:41 AM
I am SO jealous!   26, and in Paris!!  Wow!!

[By the way, my soon to be 26 year old was conceived when I was studying in France!]


Bajanne, well, I hadn't thought of this one!   Marriage has been in the back of my mind----but I hadn't jumped ahead any farther than that!!

She is having a lovely time.  She is very comfortable with the city and is visiting a couple of her favorite spots before exploring more and finding new favorite spots.  The french computer keyboard is slowing her typing down a little!  I was never this brave and I am thrilled she has the confidence to have these adventures.   Thanks for supporting me (and holding my hand). 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: thegrammalady on February 01, 2009, 11:25:08 AM
can't wait for the  :pics;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on February 01, 2009, 07:44:44 PM
I absolutely feel that travel is one of the most important things one can do in life. Hmm important isn't the right word but it is a fantastic experience and not only reminds us how good we have it in our generally comfortable lives, but to see the differences yet similar ways people around the world live. I have found all of my travels interesting and enjoyable.. Sometimes a little worrying and scary but always worth it.

AB will be totally fine over there :)
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 01, 2009, 10:14:17 PM
RichardMeltMyHeart,   will you go rescue her if she isn't all right??     :waving;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on February 02, 2009, 03:34:25 AM
Sure I'll risk being dubbed non complaint by missing sessions.. I will explain it's all for rushing off to Paris and getting her and I'm sure my unit will understand... I think they're dying for me to get a girlfriend!!!  :rofl;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Bajanne on February 02, 2009, 03:42:25 AM
The french computer keyboard is slowing her typing down a little! 
I can't stand the French computer keyboard.  I touchtype and if you type without looking, you are in the stew!  They don't have a QWERTY keyboard.  Do you handle it well, Monrein?
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on February 02, 2009, 04:30:06 AM
Heck no, I'm a terrible typist, as in one handed awful even on a regular keyboard.   In my last career as a social worker I hand wrote all my reports with a fountain pen until I was forced to switch to the computer.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 02, 2009, 07:18:15 AM
I am glad you understand what she is talking about!  I have had people say that there shouldn't be any difference.  Of course,it is different.  We use the letters of our language differently.  so Beth is using the hunt and peck method.  Once your fingers know QUERTY it is hard to retrain them. 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paddbear0000 on February 02, 2009, 09:26:22 AM
I am SO jealous!   26, and in Paris!!  Wow!!

[By the way, my soon to be 26 year old was conceived when I was studying in France!]


Bajanne, well, I hadn't thought of this one!   Marriage has been in the back of my mind----but I hadn't jumped ahead any farther than that!!

She is having a lovely time.  She is very comfortable with the city and is visiting a couple of her favorite spots before exploring more and finding new favorite spots.  The french computer keyboard is slowing her typing down a little!  I was never this brave and I am thrilled she has the confidence to have these adventures.   Thanks for supporting me (and holding my hand). 

What's wrong with not being married when you are young?! I didn't marry until I was 30 and I wouldn't change that for the world. I felt more mature and able to make a smart and informed decision about something that was going to affect the rest of my life! During my 20's I was able to discover who I really am. I just wish I had been able to travel like Beth. Unfortunately, I had to work full time so I could have benefits. She should enjoy her life and what she's doing! She is very lucky to be able to relish the experiences she's been having.   :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 02, 2009, 11:26:28 AM
No Paddbear---nothing to do with not being married now.  There is a history with Paris and that is a big part of the reason she is there.   That is why "marriage" is in the back of my mind.  There is a lot more to the story than just a trip to Paris.    Also, she works very hard so she can take adventures.  We do not support her financially at all. She has her own health insurance, car, and pays her way for everything.  She is choosing to do things that allow her to live in different areas while she has no responsiblilities.   Several events in our family life have prompted her to live life large right now.   So, nothing wrong with being in your 20's and single!   
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paddbear0000 on February 02, 2009, 03:23:52 PM
I wholeheartedly agree! I wouldn't have wanted it any other way!  Please tell her we would like :pics; though, so we can live vicariously through her!!  ;D 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on February 03, 2009, 02:31:54 AM
I totally support what Beth is doing. As you say Paris things in the family have given her the wisdom to live life while she can. I absolutely support that. Why not? She's not tied to anywhere and she's living LIFE in the most exciting way!! She's getting out there and doing what she wants - but responsibly. I think it's sensational. I did all the travel I could while I could because I knew what was coming up for me (ie dialysis). Now of course we home and assume that isn't in Beth's future, but you just never know what may happen in the future - if there's anything CKD has taught me it's to live in the here and now and never die wondering. If you can - do.

As for foreign keyboards... I am totally onto that. I used to pass through Copenhagen quite a bit.. those Danish keyboards were something else!! LOL

Reminds me of the James Bond flick when he's in Vietnam and winds up in a spy lair thing with the hot chick. Being a chauvanist male he decides to take charge and goes to the computer to send a message or something. He looks at the keyboard and it's all vietnamese characters and he relents "uh maybe you better send the message" :p

Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: drinkboy on February 04, 2009, 01:08:55 PM
I agree RichardMel...travel is the most rewarding thing you can do.  Seeing other cultures, wonderful historical sites, and experiencing new places and adventures is so exciting.  Like you said, do it while you're healthy and able to do it because you never know if and when travel will become a burden or a hassle.  The worst thing is to have had the chance to do things (travel or whatever) and pass them up and then no longer be able to do them.  So enjoy life while you can! 

Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 04, 2009, 02:33:59 PM
No day but today-------  :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: kellyt on February 04, 2009, 02:35:26 PM
I am SO jealous!   26, and in Paris!!  Wow!!

[By the way, my soon to be 26 year old was conceived when I was studying in France!]


Bajanne, well, I hadn't thought of this one!   Marriage has been in the back of my mind----but I hadn't jumped ahead any farther than that!!

She is having a lovely time.  She is very comfortable with the city and is visiting a couple of her favorite spots before exploring more and finding new favorite spots.  The french computer keyboard is slowing her typing down a little!  I was never this brave and I am thrilled she has the confidence to have these adventures.   Thanks for supporting me (and holding my hand). 

What's wrong with not being married when you are young?! I didn't marry until I was 30 and I wouldn't change that for the world. I felt more mature and able to make a smart and informed decision about something that was going to affect the rest of my life! During my 20's I was able to discover who I really am. I just wish I had been able to travel like Beth. Unfortunately, I had to work full time so I could have benefits. She should enjoy her life and what she's doing! She is very lucky to be able to relish the experiences she's been having.   :2thumbsup;

I, too, got married at 30!  I feel, for me, it was the best decision!  I loved living alone in my 20's and answering to no one!  I didn't "sew wild oats" or anything, but I enjoyed being single and hanging out with my single friends immensely!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Wenchie58 on February 04, 2009, 03:07:12 PM

  As usual I did things backwards.....I married young...had kids and then started my travels and whatnot!  I'm partially jealous of Beth, partially proud of her and partially living vicariously through her..for now.  I need pics!!

  Hope she has the BEST time and tells us all about it!
 :thumbup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on February 04, 2009, 04:02:38 PM
Ha, my plan was to get married around 30 but I met my husband in university when I was 16 in first year, started living with him at 17 (he's six years older than me) and still haven't managed to ditch him.  LOL.  Fortunately the only person I've met who's more adventurous than me is him so he waited for me to do my academic thing and we did a lot of travels together.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: thegrammalady on February 04, 2009, 04:06:01 PM
 :bow; :bow; :bow; :pics; we're starving here
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on February 04, 2009, 08:16:42 PM
I was just tinking about this for a couple days since reading one of the post about beth. I want to see that French keyboard :pics; I'm odd, I know, but I never been out of the country yet and want to see how things are done differently.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on February 05, 2009, 05:40:33 AM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keyboard_layout

Here you go.  Check them all out. 
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on February 05, 2009, 07:44:05 AM
Thanks Monrein, that was informative.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: drinkboy on February 05, 2009, 09:43:10 AM
I never knew there different keyboard layouts until I read this thread;  thanks for the link Monrein
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on February 05, 2009, 04:30:30 PM
I was just tinking about this for a couple days since reading one of the post about beth. I want to see that French keyboard :pics; I'm odd, I know, but I never been out of the country yet and want to see how things are done differently.

This is one of the great pleasures of travel for me. Sometimes I love just going to some place and even going to the local supermarket or something. Yes, that sounds very boring I'm sure, but for me it's VERY interesting. What products do they have that are the same to ours? What are different? How much does this stuff cost compared to home?

If I meet up with friends overseas (which is the best way to travel IMHO, because you get a very personal and local view of wherever you are - as opposed to the tourist bus thing. OK you may not go to the "must see" things in some city, but you DO get a unique view.. their local bar/pub, their family/housemates/friends whatever, the things they like to do etc) I love that not only am I seeing people I know and want to hang out with, but I get their view of their home city or part of it. For example I've been to Seattle any number of times, but usually I've gone and met different people in different parts of the area and seen such totally different sides of the same city it's amazing! For example I've been with a UW student in dorm, up in a very nice house in a beautiful well off area, down in communal public housing, up visiting Boeing offices, hanging around the suburbs and drinking coffee in a local coffee house... etc etc... or the time in Houston I met with some friends and we wound up at a scary biker bar (but their little dog charmed the big leather clad guys!). All experiences money and tours can't provide... and I wouldn't swap that stuff for anything :)

Beth Rocks!!!!  :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 05, 2009, 07:02:56 PM
The best way to see any place is to immerse yourself in the everyday life of the city.  Some of my favorite trips to Europe, we stayed at Zimmers.   A little sign by the front door will say "zimmer frie'  - meaning they have a room to rent.  We have stayed in lovely old farmhouses, flats in the city, etc.  Usually for just a few dollars and they serve breakfast; hot chocolate, sliced hard meats, boiled eggs and breads.  It is always an experience!    Now, don't get me wrong, I enjoy the Sheraton also  :rofl;  But I love staying with the locals.     

Beth wrote a long email today and she is loving living in Paris!  The apartment is nice and she is settled in.  She did catch her sleeve on fire while making eggs  -- would have loved to watch that!  I am waiting for pictures.   She does seem to be appreciating every day there; catching up with old friends and exploring new neighborhoods.    I miss her  :cuddle;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on February 05, 2009, 08:37:05 PM
You tell her we miss her too.. specially her IHD Boys!!!  :rofl;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: okarol on February 11, 2009, 08:25:53 AM

I love hearing about her adventure - thank you for giving us a glimpse Paris!  :pics; Tell her I am ready for some pics!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Sluff on February 11, 2009, 09:35:37 AM
Paris could you let Beth know I haven't received my Plane tickets to come over there yet. I thought for sure she said she would send them.  ;)
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 11, 2009, 10:03:27 AM
She told me she sent them C.O.D.  :rofl;   
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: thegrammalady on February 11, 2009, 02:16:20 PM
i've seen some of her pictures on facebook. she's such a lucky duck
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on February 11, 2009, 04:24:59 PM
For Beth  :2thumbsup;
Although I would get the Ghiradelli one though.  ;D
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Bajanne on February 26, 2009, 04:26:18 AM
I too love to check out the local lifel.  When I lived in France and we would travel to Belgium or Switzerland on the weekends, I would always check out my church group there.  The great thing about it was that on Sundays they all ate together after the morning meeting.  Every family would bring their food and it would just be passed around so you would get all kinds of interesting things. Then I would get to taste the local food (a change from McD's!!)
I love staying in hotels, but if I have the choice in a new country, I would prefer staying with a local family.

Waiting for the picts............
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on February 26, 2009, 02:34:20 PM
Beth's biggest challenge has been cooking with different measurments, ingredients etc.   She has mastered the French keyboard and says it she will have to retrain her fingers back to QWERTY.   I am missing her greatly today, but find such joy in her explorations.  It will be good to hug her again.  :cuddle;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: okarol on February 26, 2009, 03:27:19 PM

Paris, How long will she be gone (sorry I cannot recall)
My friend in Paris offered to have Jenna come for 3 - 4 months to live and enjoy Paris - so maybe in September. Pretty exciting!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: kitkatz on February 26, 2009, 07:43:27 PM
Bajanne try her facebook page for pics.  They are awesome.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on March 03, 2009, 08:01:57 AM
She is on her way home today.   As of two days ago, she wanted to stay and set up house.  Her sister is getting married next week, so Beth has to be here for that.  From there, well, we shall see.  She has to do what makes her happy.

Say a little prayer for good flights and safe arrival tonight.  She gets in around 8 pm and we will all be there to greet her. 

Okarol, Jenna really should go.  What a marvelous opportunity.  I would do it in a heartbeat.  Especially because she will be with people you know and trust.   :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: thegrammalady on March 03, 2009, 08:30:56 AM
paris, my how time flies when you're having fun.  i'm sure you're very excited to have her home. and i look forward to her next adventure, whatever that may be.

karol, yes send jenna if you can. april was able to go to ireland when she was in high school and germany as a graduation present. since then she has been in vienna and has an invite to iceland and japan. i just wish i could go with her.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: rose1999 on March 03, 2009, 09:11:11 AM
Good grief where has the time gone - I hadn't even got round to wishing her a great time!  Prayers and good wishes for a safe journey back Beth, sounds as if you've had a wonderful time but Paris will be glad to have you home.  :cuddle;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Joe Paul on March 03, 2009, 12:13:45 PM
Praying for AB's safe return  :thumbup;  Paris, do you think AB will be getting married now too?
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: circleNthedrain on March 03, 2009, 01:37:40 PM
Hi Paris, glad you will soon be hugging AB, I know you have really missed her.  Have fun!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Bajanne on March 03, 2009, 01:52:48 PM

Paris, How long will she be gone (sorry I cannot recall)
My friend in Paris offered to have Jenna come for 3 - 4 months to live and enjoy Paris - so maybe in September. Pretty exciting!

That is an opportunity to be grasped with both hands!!!!!!   Young and in Paris??  WOW!!!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: paris on March 04, 2009, 06:44:59 PM
Beth arrived safe and we were all glad to see her.  We have had a great day visiting and her siblings, nieces and nephews have all been spending parts of the day with her.  Thanks for your support while she was off exploring again.  Maybe she will stay awhile now.   :2thumbsup;

Joe Paul, she had some big decisions to make while in Paris.  No wedding plans.   And CircleNthedrain, thanks for always asking about Beth.  You guys are both good company in the chat room  :2thumbsup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Wenchie58 on March 04, 2009, 06:47:16 PM
YAY Paris, glad your girl is home!  One less thing for you to worry about.
I know you've been going through a lot...<<<huggs>>>
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: RichardMEL on March 05, 2009, 11:01:11 AM
Welcome home to AB!!! We all missed her :)
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Sluff on March 05, 2009, 06:30:46 PM
Welcome back Aloha Beth, hope you had a great time. It is way too cool that you are able to travel like you do. :thumbup;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: okarol on March 05, 2009, 06:34:09 PM

 :welcomesign; Back!
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: Chris on March 06, 2009, 10:42:01 AM
Welcome Back. :waving;
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: monrein on March 06, 2009, 10:46:06 AM
Hey Beth, welcome home and Vive Paris.
Title: Re: AlohaBeth in Paris
Post by: kitkatz on March 06, 2009, 12:59:52 PM
I know Paris was fun Aloha Beth. Welcome home! Your Mama missed you !