Nov. 6, 2008 - Home, by my mind is in POP

O.k so I have been home for 2 weeks, but mentally I'm still in the DR.  And the countdown is on until I return.....72 days and counting....

Really had a great time this trip.  It really reminded me that Puerto Plata, for me, is "my happy place".   Met some new people, while down there, which always makes the trip memorable.  But it also makes me look forward to going back and reconnecting with them.  I enjoy meeting new people, and learning about them. Where they come from, and who they are. 

The weather was great and laughed so hard at so many different things.  And how opposite the Dominican people are from us, North Americans. Just makes me shake my head and laugh.  Although you would think this shouldn't surprise me, as I live with my husband and see it every day....however when you see an entire country doing it, man, it blows my mind!  How do they function??  LOL

Of course, while I was down there, I had to make the obligatory visit to the parent-in laws...and man was that FUN!!!!!  I was a little nervous heading into the visit b/c I speak o.k Spanish (nothing fancy and nothing gramtically correct) however his family speaks NO ENGLISH!!!!!!!  So you can see why I was a bit nervous...

Normally, when I go to see his family, I would have Orlando, who would basically talk for me.  I would sit there like a mute and let him do all the talking. I know, I know, not learning a whole lot by him doing that.  This time, though I had no one...well my mom, who is just learning Spanish herself. (She just got the whole "congegate the verb thing", and man has it open the door to Spanish for her...now it's only half Spanglish. LOL)  But I went for to visit them for 2 hours one day, and his family were impressed by how much I knew.  B/c of course Orlando did the all the talking., they didn't think I could even speak Spanish.  They thought I was shy b/c I would just sit there in past visits,  but this visit, I was more out going and carried my end of the conversation...and words that I didn't know, we played cheraids..and I had my trusty Spanish/Engish dictionary.  LOL.

And then there was my mother...she was a 1 woman animation team....  Orlando's parents are not drinkers..so here my my mother prances in, with her pretty blue "La Benaditica" bottle, and plastic glass to drink out of....and her Spanglish. LOL

After an hour of conversation, her mind was starting to hurt, and she calls out, "Donde esta la musica???"  They all laughed at her, went to get a radio from a neighbour... and got the music going.  Orlando's newphew, Cheo, and Mom danced bachata on the front verandah.  The rest of us, laughed and watched them dance.  So it was definately a good visit.  

Of course Orlando was at home in Cda, and he would get the play by play of my visit from his family. They told him how well I did, and he was very proud of me.  

When I went back to say goodbye to them at the end of my vacation, again, we had a good visit.  It was cut much shorter this time, as I had other friends to say goodbye to.  And I had alot of running around to different places to pick things up to bring home to Orlando....  But all in all, a good visit and I'm proud of myself.

So, now I am back home, and planning my next trip back to Puerto Plata in January.   Again, my husband is not able to come.  Unfortunately he only gets one week of paid vaction per year ( as it's a new job) and he wants to go down for Easter celebration.  So I told him if he didn't come in January, then he could save in order to go for two weeks in April, and could afford for him to be off work unpaid for the 2nd week we are down there. 

I wouldn't say he is o.k with this, however, he agrees it would be better financially for us to do it that way. 

O.k maybe he doesn't even agree to that, but hey....it's not my fault I get 25 days paid vacation....he can't expect me to sit at home and look at the apartment walls???  Does he???  LOL

In all seriousness, I wish he was with me, and actually when leaving POP this time in Oct, it was the FIRST time I was excited at getting home b/c I did miss Orlando.  Even though he called me everyday, 2 or 3 times a day (LOL)....I still missed him.  But when I go there, I always am visiting his family and our friends.  I'm always with my mother.  It's not like it's a single girl's vacation.  I'm not into that, and I enjoy my time with my friends and family.  It is the only time I don't have to do anything.  I save my money for this time, and enjoy every minute of it.  No cooking, no cleaning, no laundry...NOTHING.... for one or two weeks.  He will come in April, and am really looking forward to that.

Cuidate

Oct. 18, 2008 - Day 2 of Puerto Plata vacation....

Hey there-

Currently in Puerto Plata as I type...thank the lord for that!  This is soooooooo what I needed.

Went out last night to La Canita, with Planner, had a great time...man can that lady dance!  When she says she dances up a strom, yes she does!  She needs to teach me some moves.  LOL

Heading out again with her on Sunday night.  Hopefully won't be as tired.  Had to leave early from La Canita b/c I was so tired.   I flew from Halifax to TO Thursday at 4pm...stayed at the airport, literally, until 3am, when I was able to go through secitury, and the plane FINALLY took off at 630am....oh that was painful.  Of course, I couldn't sleep on the plane b/c I was excited.  met a lovely man named William, who is from Cda, and him and his wife just finished building a house in Cabarete.  They don't live there permanetely as his wife is still working, and won't retire just yet.  So for now they go back and forth every few months.  He loves the country.  And it wasnice to talk to someone who loves this country as much as I do.

Tomorrow afternoon, I will go and visit Orlando's family.  Which is a little nerve-wracking for me as they speak NO english, and I am still earning my Spanish.  But what better practice right?!?! 

Weather is lovely, and having a good time...will blog a bit more later.....

Hasta Pronto!

Sep. 5, 2008 - Lo Siento!!

Hi there-

I know, I know, same old same old, still taking forever to blog!  It's hard to blog, when I have no computer, and try to do it when I visit friends and fmaily who have computers...but don't want to be rude when I am visiting, to be sitting on the computer..(well except at Mom's place! LOL)

Am headed back to the DR in October, for a week.  Unfortunately without Orlando.  As I mentioned in the past blog, he started a new job, and does not have any paid vacation time as of yet.  I am going with my Mother.  We ar eplanning on going in Oct for two reasons.  One is, we always go in Oct to celebrate her birthday, and we go with a friend who's brithday is also in October.  This is the same friend we ALWAYS go to the DR>  She loves it there as much as we do, maybe more! LOL

And the other reason, is both Mom and I were looking at going away to have time to ourselves during the 1st anniversary of my brother's passing.  We had taken down some of my brother's ashes and put them with my father's ashes (we had taken  my father's ashes down to the DR when Orlando and I had gotten married) And we brought some of my brothers to put with my father's in April of this year.  So I am sure we will spend some time there, reflecting on the year gone by, and  think of the fond memories we still carry.

Orlando is very supportive of me going, and thinks it will be good for me to go, and get away.  Especially during that time.  He wants me to visit his family, which of course is a given.  His father has been in thehospital for two strokes, and Orlando is concerned.  he wants me to check everything out, and make sure he is doing o.k as his family says he is.  Orlando and his father are close, and it would crush him if anything happened to him.  I've tried to tell him, that his father is not getting any younger, and he needs to prepare himself.  Orlando has never expereince one of his family members pass away. He  experenced both my brother, and my aunt pass away 1 year ago.  Both of whom he was close to.  He said the funerals are very different here.  And preferred our way of funeral to the Dominican way.  He says here we celebrate the persons life, and gather together to remember them, and our memoreis of them.  In the DR, he says, people mourn and cry for weeks on end, and it's very depressing.

Other then my scheduled visit to Puerto Plata in October, nothing else is new.  Orlando is wishing to visit Cuba, in April, and would like to wait a while before returning back to the DR.  We will see, once the time gets close, I know he will be itching to get back home to see his family.  Time will only tell.

Cuidate

Jul. 2, 2008 - Decisions Decisions

Orlando has staed a new job.  He had given his resume to a hotel last year.  He found about the job from one Dominicano who lives here.  He gave him his resume to pass along to his boss.  As the hotel has a referral campaign for employees.  But Orlando never heard anything.

A couple weeks ago, they asked him in for an interview.  And they offered him a position.  It is in the kitchen, but with opportunity to move around in the company.  Plus, he wil get a raise after his 3 months probabation, and full benifits.  It is full time hours, and starting off, more money then where he was currently working.  Plus where he had currently been working was only part time, like 4 hours a day.  Just enough to cover some of our bills.  So getting this job is a god send, financially.

He has started the job, and although he says it is not what he wants to, he will stay with it, and see where it may lead too.  On top of the benifits, etc, they will also help him learn english for his reading and writing.  They offer classes.  So that is an extra bonus.  He says the people there are very friendly and helpful, whereas at the old place, they treated him like nothing b/c he worked in the kitchen.  But here everyone right down to the executive chef, come and ask him if there is anything they can do to help him, and if he is finding everyhting o.k working there.  Total opposite from what he was working in.

But b/c of this job, we will have to post-pone any vacations we wanted to take in Oct of this year, b/c he won't get paid vacation until he's been there for 1 year. 

It's funny b/c after I posted how Orlando wanted to visit other places etc, he says he is missing home, and asked me where I would prefer to go, Cuba or back to the DR.  I told him it really didn't matter to me.  Just as long as there is sun...and it's hot.  I told him it would be nice to visit other places, to experience other things, but that I do understand his need to go home to see his family and friends.  However, I gave him a friednly reminder of the extra expenses...(b/c I know a Domincan has SHORT TERM MEMORY!) and he said "Oh yeah..." and left it at that.  So it is still up in the air as to where and when we will go. 

One of his friends, Julian, who is Dominican, has been back home twice since being in Cda.  He has 1 year more then Orlando for being in Cda.  I believe him and his wife are planning on going to Cuba in April.  Our plan was to possible go with them, but we will see.  He may stick to that decision and go to Cuba, b/c it's with his friend.  Or his homesickness may be too strong, and sway him to go back to the DR.

I don't know how happy he would be going to another place.  He would have to constantly be doing something 24-7 to keep him occupied.  He is not a sun worshiper like I am.  Atleast in the DR, he can move about and do what he wants, while I sit and soak up the rays.  His friend Julian totally acts the tourist while on vacation, whereas Orlando has no interest to do that.  it should prove to be interesting.  If we go with Julian and his wife, then it may be o.k, b/c atleast he has Julian to hang around with.  And that leaves Courtney and I to sit in the sun....hmmmmmm definately need to go with another couple, otherwise I'll be babysitting...LOL 

Hasta Pronto

Lisa

PS.

This is an add on.....later in the day.....

Got off the phone with Orlando to see how his day was.  There was a line cook, that was cutting salmon, and Orlando offered to show him how to slice it.  And the head chef saw Orlando and came over and asked if he knew how to cook, and use a knife...etc.  Orlando told her that no, he didn't have his papers, but he was learning in his old job.  She was very impressed and didn't realize how much he did know.  She said, not to worry that she would help him and show him many things.  And Orlando told her that he appreciated it, and she went on to show him how to cut different ways....So he has been there almost 2 weeks, and already is showing iniative and is getting recognized.  He is really happy about that, and he sees there really IS room for movement.  Unlike his old job, which always promised but never delivered.

Jun. 30, 2008 - Vacation Update

Oh how time flies!!!!!

Well we (and I mean I...) have survived a trip back to visit the family.  It was a bit daunting....and Orlando finally clued in when I strted weighing the suitcase, and was at 26lbs...with only three pairs of jeans, my bathing suits, and shorts and t-shirts...not even our toilitries....or his clothes....or anything to wear at night etc.  He scrapped the idea of one suitcase being for his family, nd the two of us sharing one suitcase.  He yanked all the clothes & etc. he had bought for his family, and said this is your suitcase, and the other one, will be mine.  I was a happy woman.....LOL.

Once arrived in POP, there was only 1 guy open for going through Immigration.  My mom, Orlando and I were about half way in the middle, and all of a sudden this guy comes up to Orlando and pulls him and us aside, and opens another wicket.  So naturally people start to follow up...the guy then turns around and says, "no just these people."  I was embarrssed b/c I know that the people on the plane were pi$$ed.  They wanted to get on with their vacation as much as we did....but it was also nice to get through the line up, and out of the airport.  Naturally, Orlando gave the guy $5 USD, and on our way we went.  Honestly, we landed, and within I would say 10 minutes of landing, we were getting our suitcases, and out the front door.  The fastest I've been through POP airport, for sure.

As for the vacation, our first stop was to the hotel, we dropped out suitcases, and went to Orlando's family.  We drive up to his house, and there is like 80 people, waiting to see him, all screaming and crying, happy that he has come back. His dear, Mom and Dad, tears in their eyes. The first time they ahve seen their son in almost a year and half.  It brought tears to my eyes.  I know Orlando really missed home, and it felt good to be back.  It wa a nice welcome home for him.  Typical Domincan fiesta, compelte with LOTS of food, waaaay too much food.  Lots of cerveza, and rum, and of course musica!  Oh how I missed my time in the DR.  It was good to be back.

I knew that Orlando and I would be on seperate vacations.  For me a vacation is to go away, and do nothing.  I work in a very busy bank, where I am on my feet non-stop and go go go.  My idea of a vacation, is lying on the beach doing nothing.  And I fully intended on doing just that.  Orlando's idea of his vacation, was going and seeing everyone last person he knew in POP, and he did just that.  He enjoyed it for all of 3 days.  Then he was ready to go back to Cda.  He enjoyed seeing the people, and spending time with them, but they all expected so much for him.  Buy them this, or that, "what did you bring me" etc....and Orlando the nice guy he is, was giving the clothes off his back to them. 

I would say by day 4, he was ready to go back to Cda.   He said the city was not the same, he didn't feel comfortable.  He felt like a fish out of water there.  He always went around town with one or two of his brothers, or his best friend....he didn't want to go by himself.  One of his friends had gone back to his city, San Pedro (I believe) and went out on his own in the neighbouhood, had a gun to his head and robbed.  Orlando was very smart.  He knew that people in the DR knew he was living in Cda.  And of course, living out of the DR, "you are made of money"....and people assume that you have brought that money back to the DR.  So, Orlando always made sure that he was not alone. 

After the few days of being out and about in POP,  he realized how much money it was costing HIM, and he stayed on the resort for the last few days. 

On our way home, fo course all the rum we brought back....we were WAAAAAAAAAY over on our luggage weight allowance.  They wanted to cahrge us, $120 USD....Orlando slipped the guy $20 USD, on the side, and that was it.  We sat outside and had a few last Presidentes, and of course they shut the security down, as the plane was leaving early.  We rushed through the flight attendants security..., and didn't even have our passports stamped as there was no one there to stamp it.  Once we got upstairs, the plane was ready to board....everyone was in line to get onto the plane So we get in the line at the end....  The guy fom the check-in, down stairs who issued out tickets, pulled us aside to the front of the line, and carried our carry-ons onto the plane.  We were the first ones on the plane.  Orlando gave the guy 150 pesos.  I know the people in the line up, were like "WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE????" 

This trip back home for Orlando, has certainly opened his eyes to a couple of different things.  I know that it bothered Orlando to see how his family, and friends live.  In Cda, Orlando and I are by no means rich.  We live pay cheque to pay cheque, like most other Cdns do.  But we certainly have a far better way of life then some do in the DR.  For Orlando when he lived there, that was life, and that was what he knew.  And now he sees a different way of life, and I think it bothers him that he lives one way, while so many others live in poverty. 

We were suppose to go back to POP in October.  However, on the plane ride home, Orlando said he wasn't sure he wanted to go back....he said it cost him more money to go home, then it would have, had we gone to Mexico or Cuba.  So we are thinking maybe Cuba...in April.  And maybe NYC in Oct.  I dont' know.  It all depends on vacation time Orlando can get from work.  I am glad that Orlando got to go home, but I think he is ready to check other places out, and experience other places....we will see.  Stay tuned! LOL

Cuidate

Lisa

Mar. 21, 2008 - Geeting ready for the DR

Hi there-

I know it's been a long time.  Since moving out, I don't have access to a computer, where Mom had the computer.  Living on our own has been great.  Much more freedom to come and go, and do what we want.

Orlando is still working at the restaurant.  There were a few episodes, but he has handled himself well.  I sort of flew off the handle b/c I was concered about bills etc...the normal Cdn thing....LOL

The restaurant has an upstairs and downstairs ( which is mostly storage of dry food and freezers, and a few offices).  Sometimes Orlando is asked to go downstairs to clean up...he doesn't mind but lately things have been  gone missing.  So he told the waitress supervisor that he wasn't comfortable going down there.  And Trish, the waitress, basically told him do it, or your fired.  So Orlando went home.  He didn't want to be put into a situation where he could get in trouble.

Well I freaked out.  Here we are going to the DR in April, and he ups and decides not to work there anymore...I started to hyperventalate.  Once he was home, he called the owner, Boris, and talked to him about the situation.  Orlando explained why he didn't feel comfortable.  Boris told him to take a few days off, that he would look at putting Orlando at a different restaurant.  He understood Orlando's position.  Orlando said he was an immigrant here, and he had to  keep himself "clean" (meaning no trouble with the law).  Boris understood b/c he too is an immigrant from Greece, and knows what it is like to come to a new country.  Boris said he really likes Orlando and knows he is a hard worker.  ANd said they didn't want to lose him.  So Orlando had an extra long weekend, and went back to work at a different restaurant...the following Monday.  After his first day at the new restaurant,  which is a sushi house...Orlando loves it there.  The people are very friendly, and understand where he is coming from asl the majority are all immigrants from Japan.  So he is getting along very well there. 

I am proud for how Orlando handled himself.  He took a stand, and voiced his concern and opinion to Boris, and in repsonse was taken seriously and treated with repsect, and consideration from Boris.  So I am proud that he did that, meanwhile I freaked out over the money, and how were we going to pay rent and this trip we are going on.....so I am learning just as much from Orlando as he is from me.

As I mentioned we are going to the DR in April.  Only for one week, but still better then nothing.  Beggers can't be choosers! LOL  This will be Orlando's 1st trip back to home for him since arriving in Cda.  He has been here for 1 year and almost 2 1/2 months.  He is starting to get homesick.  I'm a little nervous about him not wanting to come back to Cda after the week we are there.  But fellow friends who are form the DR, said after 1 week, he will be begging to get back on the plane with me.  They couldn't take the noise (motoconchos), and loud music, and no electricity, that the city is different from when they left.  It will be very intersting to see how he reacts to being back home, and how he will feel once the week is up.

He is shopping up a storm...buying new sneakers, new clothes...I tease him, saying there isn't enough days in the week for him to bring all these clothes with him.  He will need to change like 4 and 5 times in one day to wear all his clothes.  His retort, is that he is planning on selling these things to his friends when he gets there.  I don't know...personally I think all these clothes will be coming BACK to Cda with us.  LOL  But he has been on the phone talking to his friends in the DR, telling them what he has and they are all saying "yes I want that, or..save that for me, don't show so-and so b/c they will buy it first."  etc....  Orlando has even gone so far as posed all the sneakers and hats, and modeld the clothes, and taken PICTURES on them on the digital camera...so that he can go to the neighbourhood, show his catelogue of "wares" and then get them to giv ehim the money and he'll bring the stuff back to the them.  I just alugh at him, and tell him he better have a SH!T load of money for the extra baggage HE will have to pay to get the stuff down there.  By jesus, I swear WE will have to wear the clothes on our back for the week b/c there will be no room for OUR clothes, with all the crap for his family and his merchandise to sell! LOL  Oh I'm sure whe we get ready to go, we will ahve WWIII at our apartment, when we are packing.  But he just doesn't get it.  And honestly I don't think he ever will.

  LOL  Love him to death, but when a Dominicano has something in there mind, FORGET it, you will never convince them otherwise. 

Hasta Pronto!

lisa

Feb. 7, 2008 - Lo siento Mas!

Soo sorry everyone...I just logged into Dr1 and saw that I hadn't blogged since Dec 27th.....How time flies!

New Years was quiet for us as Orlando got scheduled to work last minute.  I had bought our drinks for that night, thinking we were going out, but he had to work...so he celebrated a couple nights later...drinking everything!  hahahahaha!  Oh well, he had a good time.

We ahve been working and saving our money as we are trying hard to get back to the DR in April....we are hoping Mr Tax man will help us with a large income return....and all our extra money is going towards our vacation.  I am over- calculating our prices for the trip b/c I know once we get there...he will want to be the big man on campus , so to speak, and I want to plan for the extra money he will want to spend.  He seems to think I'm going a little extreame.  But we also have to consider his vacation is not paid, and we will still have bills to be paid back at home, so that money needs to be there as well.  So we are looking at only going for a week. 

Other Dominicans, who have been back, said 1 week is enough, he will want to come home after that.  But Orlando marches to a different drummer...so I don't know.  LOL

Other then that, nothing much going on.  I am trying to win a trip on our local radio station, to the DR.  It is at a hotel in Puerto Plata, which would be perfect.  You need to be caller 7, and I was caller 4!  It wold have made a fantastic Anniversary present.  Our anniversary is coming up Feb 14th.  That will be 2 years for us.  I can't believe how time really flies.  It hasn't been easy for those 2 years...half of which he was in the DR, and myself in Cda.  But even the last year, has been trying at times.  Really getting Orlando adjusted to Cda.  He seems to be adjusting well, and there are still more bumps to come.  Nothing is every a smooth sale, and I'm not anticipating it.  But we are good communicators.,...well sometimes is takes a few days, but we eventually listen to each other, and work it out.  That is key to any realtionship, but especially to those who have different cultures in the mix.

Well must get back to work,

Cuidate!

Lisa

Dec. 28, 2007 -

Feliz Navidad, y Feliz Año Nuevo!

Christmas was not as bad as I thought it would be.  Except that Orlando got me sick.  Friday, he was not feeling well, so the good wife that I am, took care of him, feeding him Benalyn, and plenty of fluids.  He slept all night Friday, and all day Saturday.  He was fine Sunday.   NOt bad considering it was his 1st cold since arriving in Cda.  And he refused to get a flu shot b/c he is afraid of needles. Well me.....Sunday night, I started to feel horrible.  Scratchy throat.  I went to bed, and that night while sleeping my throat was burning, and would wake me up when I swallowed.  Agghhh!  Monday I went to work, sounding like  a man, and sneezing.  Thank god I only worked until 3pm.  I felt like crap.  I went to my grandmothers, where my Mom and her brother and sister were and their spouses...and Orlando and I all had dinner with my grandmother and grandfather.

Then we went down to my cousins.  They were having an open house where friends and family could drop in.  We went but I didn't stay long.  I felt horrible, and I didn't want to get anyone sick.  I was starting to have the chills.  And nothing would get me warm.

We went home, opened our gifts from Mom, and then I went to bed.  Christmas Day I slept ALL day, tons of Benalyn and Nyquil to knock me out. Got up for Christmas dinner at my cousins.  Came home and slept all day again.  And Boxing Day I slept all day too.  So I slept myself out of a cold.  Apparently that is what alot of people have done with this cold, and it really works.

Mom stayed down at my cousin house both nights (Christmas Eve and Day) as she has 3 children 14,13 and 11, so it was nice to see them open their gifts, and kept Mom busy, and her mind off things.

With everything with my brother and the holidays, Mom has been also going through watching her father battle Parkinsons Desease.  He is now confined to his bed, and can not walk or sit up on his oown.  We have home care workers come in to care for him, bath and change his diapers.  He is becoming more and more demanding.  Not his fault, mind you, but very hard for my grandmother who lives with him, but is ailing with arthritis. 

The homecare worker suggested putting him in a nursing home.  But to my gradmother that is like admitting defeat, and she is nhot ready to give him up.  They have been married for 55 years, and has spent her life, taking care of him. She would be lost without him.  She has finally come to terms that she can no longer care for him, as it is affecting her health and well being now.  And they told him that he would be going into a nursing home.  He was upset as was everyone.   So that is another emotional things my Mom had to go through.

But 2008 and is among us, and hopefully will bring happiness and good health to our family this year.  And I wish all the same to you.

Cuidate

Lisa

Dec. 11, 2007 - Mish-mash

HI Everyone-

Orlando's 1st Year Anniversay of being in Cda has coem and went.  And the good wife that I am...slept thru it...literally.  I have not been feeling well, got that stupid flu, and I slept and slept and slept.  I woke up, went out over to Mom's, just to get out.  Then came home and slept some more.  He did end up going over to his friends "disco" as he calls it.  Club Caliente, with some of "the boys".  So I'm glad he got a chance to get out and enjoy his day.

Other then that, not much goign on here, working and getting ready for the holidays.  it will be very differnet of course, with everything that has gone on.  My brother was a chef, and he always made us Christmas breakfast at his place.  And we would open his presents that he had gotten for us.  So this year, it will be different, and he will certainly be missed.  More so, b/c our day was centered around him.  But as I tell Mom, that life goes on, and so must we.  He is in a better place, and no longer suffering. 

The weather is getting colder and the colder it gets, Orlando is getting more and more excited to go back to the DR.  We are tentatively looking at going in April.  Christmas bonuses, and income tax refunds will determine 1 or 2 weeks.  All of Orlando's Domincian friends who have gone back already for the 1st visit, have advised 1 week is plenty.  That once he gets there, they can't wait to go back to Cda.  So it should prove to be intersting in how he reacts once back. I know that the DR is his country, and they are his people....but their way of life, and mind set are alot different then ours, here in Cda.  So it will be very interesting.  I have asked if we were staying at an AI or with his family.  He looked at me like I had 2 heads and responded "All INclusive! I'm not loving without electricity and no air conditioning" LOL ....so this is why I say it will be VERY intersting in how he responds to being back in his country.  LOL

Cuidate

Lisa

Dec. 1, 2007 - Random thoughts and experiences

Hi there-

I am sitting here and looking out the window, and seeing all this white fluffy crap coming down, and am really starting to hate Cda...for the simple reason...WINTER!!!  It has finally arrived...although Orlando has been telling me since Oct, that the cold was coming.  Well, it has arrived.  BLAAHHH!!!

Orlando has been here almost one year.  He has gone through all the seasons, and he has enjoyed them...except he is NOT looking forward to the winter.  He didn't like it the first time...and he's sure he will not like it this year either...LOL.

I was not really in the Christmas spirit, with everything that has gone on these past couple of months.  And I was not really feeling like putting a tree or decorations up....but this is Orlando and my first Christmas in our first apartment together, so I made the effort, and put up a little tree, and it looks really cute and nice.  I'm glad that I did it.  Orlando enjoys it too, he puts the tree lights on at night, and turns all other lights out...which is fine, except I'm trying to read or clean or something.  LOL

We have started saving for our trip to the DR.  Orlando said that since this is his first time back, he MUST bring all these gifts back to his family....clothes, toys etc....So I told him fine, he has to save extra money for the extra cost of weight for the suitcase.  Apparently, one large suitcase will be for his family, and we will have to share a large suitcase.  I told him that he better be happy spending a week in his bathingsuit shorts....b/c the suitcase is going to be all MY clothes!  Hahahahaha.  I'm not sure if any others, out there reading this... have had this problem, the first trip back to the DR,  do they HAVE to bring all this stuff back?  Orlando swears that it will only be this one time....but I don't know.  We have shoes for all his nieces and nephews, clothes for them, some cooking jackets that were my brothers, for his brother in law who is a chef, as well. 

So I am mentally calculating the cost of this damn suitcase...and adding it into a cost of our trip...it is getting very expensive..... There are times that Orlando can be very cost-concious about SOME things...but most times, he always has to have the BEST, which means most freaking expensive!  I'm not sure if it's a MAN thing or a Dominicano thing...any thoughts?  LOL

Cuidate

Lisa

Nov. 12, 2007 - Settling In

Hi there-

Orlando and I are settling in to our new apartment.  We officially moved in last weekend.  And we are pretty much settled in.

Last night, we had our first dinner party.  Julian bought the food, everyone brought their own beer. We provided the place.  We had Henri (Dominican), Julian (Dominican) and his wife, Courtney (Cdn), Rojelio (Cuban) and myself and Orlando.  The men cooked, well Orlando and Julian did.  Henri and Rojelio stood in the kitchen drank and talked.  Courtney and I were in the living room talking and catching up.  All the while merengue and bachata playing in the background...loud.. I had to turn it down a couple of times.  Funny, I thought it was a "Maritime thing" where everyone congregates to the kitchen during a party...apparently it's world wide.  Haha.

They cooked, rice and beans, with pork and avacado.  While cleaning out my brothers apartment, I found all kinds of spices and mixes that I had brought him home from the DR, so I had given them, to Orlando.  Man did that bring a smile to his face.  My brother was a chef, and loved cooking other types of food, other then Cdn, and Orlando was helping to show him how to cook Dominican food.  So when I was last in the DR, I picked up all kinds of spices and sauces from the supermercado, and brought it back for Chris.  Well unfortunately Chris can't cook with Orlando, but atleast he is still with us while we enjoy some of his spices.

Rojelio told Orlando that it was the best food he has had.  All the guys were joking that they will be over alot during the winter months.  Hoping that I didn't mind.  I told them I didn't.  I enjoy having a full house of people, laughing and enjoying themselves.  However, Dominicans can get loud at times.  Jeez, they had the music turned up, and then they are trying to talk over the music, which translates to them hooting and hollering.  So I turned the music down a but...to no avail.  Next time, we will have the shin dig earlier on in the day...so not to distrub people.  Otherwise we will be kicked out...I'm sure!  Orlando says they are loud b/c they all get exicted when they get together b/c they don't see eacthone all together alot.  Well lets see if during the winter they tone down their excitement, if they come over alot...I'm guessing no they won't.

After dinner, Courtney and Rojelio put together my other end table.  Which now I have two, I'm so happy for that.  I told them I would feed them anytime, if they would fix things!  LOL.  Orlando is really handy, but, these end tables were giving him trouble.  he had put one together, but the drawer wasn't working properly, so he was waiting to get some help.  So next time Rojelio is over he said he would help Orlando fix the 1st one Orlando had put together.

It was a nice night, but man oh man, do they boys know how to mess a kitchen.  It's funny b/c when we lived with Mom, she was FORVER going after Orlando to be tidy while cooking,a nd cleaning the spills and splatters....and now that we are in our own place, it has carried over.  Courtney said that while cooking, Orlando was wiping the stove top and saying I have to keep this clean, or Lisa will kill me...and he's wiping the wall by the stove down.  Well atleast SOMETHING stuck with him.  LOL

While Julian was dishing out the food, he was scrapping the pot for con-con, and the rice went flying...I will have to vacuum my kitchen b/c there are pieces of rice everywhere ont he floor.  Next time, will take the black mat out of the kitchen, and leave it to them. 

The one rule was that Orlando will cook, I'll do the dishes and tidy the kitchen...fair is fair.  Plus Orlando cleans while he is cooking, but not to my standards...but I appreciate his efforts and recognize him for that. 

So that is one party down, and tonight we are having another.  Apparently some guys from Orlando's work are coming over, and he is cooking for them.  So we get to do it all over again. 

Cuidate

Lisa

Oct. 31, 2007 - Taking one day at a time

Hi Everyone-

I wanted to thank everyone for their support for our family during this time.  It has been difficult, however we are making it through it.  taking it one day at a time.

Orlando has been amazing.  Very supportive, and makinbg sure I eat, and am taking care of myself.  I'm so wrapped up in Mom and making sure everything is o.k and gets done, that he is taking care of me. 

Him and Christopher had grown close.  Chris had gotten him a job at the restaurant he was working at.  So they worked together every day.  Orlando said it is like losing his own brother.  That is how he viewed Chris, as his own brother.  Orlando has helped me take care of Christopher's lizard, which I just inherited.  I am so lucky to have Orlando here with me during this time.

Unfortunately since Orlando has been here in Cda, he has been to 2 funerals.  One last month for my aunt (My mothers' sister) who passed away, and then again last week, for Christopher's.  He was noticing the differences of traditions that we have in Cda, or atleast in my family, compared to the DR.  In the DR, he says, people mourn and cry hysterically, and have the body in their houses, and walk through the streets with the body, on the day of burial.  It is a very sad time.  And although it is a very sad time for us in Cda, we "celebrate" the life of the person.  Having food, drink, and remembering the person.  Orlando perfers the way we do it here, as opposed to be crying all the time, and being sad and depressed.  He enjoys remebering the times, and making people smile b/c of the memories of the person.

On top of dealing with all this, Orlando and I are still planning on moving this weekend.  We have started moving some things these past few days.  It will keep us busy, and occupied.  I will have Mom come over to help supervise, and hopefully help clean.....but shhh don't tell her!  it will be my little surprise to her from me!  LOL

Cuidate

Oct. 28, 2007 - Some sad news

Hi Everyone-

I have some sad news.  This past Tuesday my brother has passed away.  I have been busy getting his service put together, hence no blog.

It was a shock, and he will be missed dearly.  From seeing his friends, and spending time with them and family, the one thing that Christopher taught us, was to be kind to everyone.  He had a  huge heart, and a kind spirit.  He had been sick since he was little with Crohns disease as well as cancer, and yet he would do what he could to help people out, regardless of the pain he was enduring with his health problems.  That was the type of person he was.

I truly believe that he is in peace now.  He is no longer in pain, and is with our Dad in heaven.  He is being well taken care of, and both him and Dad will take care of Mom, Orlando and I.  This is a time for us not to be selfish and want him here with us. That he is in a much better place.  We do not understand why he was taken from us being so young at 33 years.  But I believe it was to spare him from what the future may have held for him.  He died peacefully, and that is all we could have asked for.

Rest in peace Christopher, you will be missed and never forgotten.

Oct. 21, 2007 - Big News

Hola Everyone-

Have been super busy for the last few weeks.  Orlando and I are in the process of moving.  Finally we are getitng out own place.  Time to leave Mom's house.  We are very excited to get our own place.

We have saved money up, and just finished buying our furniture.  When we started this fun adventure, we only had the bedroom furniture.  I had originally lived on my own, and then with an ex.  Once we had split up, I moved back home selling all my stuff, except my bedroom stuff.  That came home with me.  So now, that Orlando and I are getitng out place, I was a bit nervous b/c all we had was a bed and a set of nighttables and a dresser and a TV.  Not exactly going to fill an entire apartment.

But while at Mom's we saved money, and we got everything we need.  We bought alot of stuff on sale from the Superstore, (2 chairs, 2 end tables, and a coffee table, and a TV stand).  Their stuff is really nice there.  And all that for under $500.  My family has been great too, giving us things they no longer need or use.  A beautiful kitchen table and 4 chairs, dishes kitchen things, etc.  The big thing we needed was a sofa.

Somone had introduced me to Kijiji online, and well, that is where I found my sofa.  I was a little leary about this, as I was new to the whole purchasing things online etc.  But we took a chance, and saw a sofa we liked, and bonus it was a sofa BED.  So we went to take a look and it was beautiful.  No problems with it at all, it looked like it was hardly used.  And it didn't smell....I was very particular about that...LOL.  So we took it...for $60,.  Yes $60.  Orlando was soo impressed.  As was I.  We also got a microwave ($30) and a 32 inch color tv from him ($40).  All together $135 not bad, if I do say so myself.

We also bought some odds and ends on sale too, got alot of good deals.  Oralando and I had some arguments about style of furniture etc....he was more into the dark wood, french colonial antique look....I guess from the furniture down in the DR.  I'm not soo crazy about it.  But what can you do?  We compromised.  He had found a table on the side of the road.  Yes the side of the road.  He was very excited about yardsales and garbage days.  he can not get over the stuff people throw away here.  And he wishes he could take it all back to his home to give to people who don't have it.  B/c most of the time there is nothing wrong with the item, just not longer needed.  And Orlando thinks this is a big waste. 

So he found a little table on the side of the road ready for garbage day the next morning.  He made me stop, and pull over, and he went and got the table, and put it in the car.  As it turns out the table is beautiful, a mahogny a shelf (like an end table).  It needed some new drawer pulls.  So we went to Kent ourchased them, and he worked like a dog on it to make it shiny and new again. And it looks really good.  So that will be in the living room, inbetween the two chairs.  He is very exctied about it, and I must say he did a good job. 

We have had some arguments, and I am sure there is more to come while we unpack.  We have a floor plan of the apartment we are moving into.  And we are trying to figure out furniture plans where things will go.  And we are having disagreements. he is not getitng the whole size concept.  He really thinks it is bigger then it is.  ANd I don't want furniture on top of furniture.  And of course in the DR< they avhe HUGE furniture in small spaces, and it's hard to move around.  I'm trying to avoid that...but he's making it challenging.  LOL

Well I'll keep you updated on the move.  In the meantime I'm starting a new job with the bank still, but different area of banking.  So that will be challenging, as well as triny got move.  It should prove to be an interesting next few weeks.  I'll try to keep things updated.

Cuidate

Lisa y Orlando 

Sep. 13, 2007 - Hola!

Hi there-

Not much going on in the wonderful world of married life!  Both of us are working. 

Orlando just got a call today that he is on the waiting list to start his English Level 3.  He needs some help with his reading and writing skills in English.  I'm thinking it's better that a 3rd party teach him...so not to have many "spats".  LOL

Hopefully in a  month or maybe 2 he'll start that, going part time, and working around that.  The great thing about his job, is that they will work around his school hours, so it's perfect.

The weather here in NS is starting to cool off, and as Orlando calls it, "it's fresh out"  meaing that the air is crisp, and cool.  Nice fall weather is srating to settle in.  This is my favorite time of the year....and I think Orlando is enjoying it.  He was surprised at how short our summer was, and a little annoyed b/c our winter seems soooo long.  LOL  Spoken like a true Canadian! LOL

Well if you have been following my blog, you will all remember the big argument Orlando and I had about how he couldn't go back to the DR with the same chain...well, everyone can breath a sigh of relief, he got a new chain.  He wears that thing soo proud! I'm still confused over the whole thing, and I think I will until the day I die.  Some things, I just let go and accept he is the way he is, and no point trying to figure it out b/c I'll get a headache.  hahahaha

So now that he got the chain.....  We are expecting to head back to POP in April.  Me, personally, I want to go for 2 weeks....him, he would like to go for a week.  Lets see what he thinks after going through another winter...he might change his tune.  Hahahaha.  I told him that I was booking for 2 weeks, and he could come for a week, and I'll take him to the airport, and say goodbye, while I stayed on a 2nd week....not sure he really liked that idea.  That would change the tables around, normally it was him taking ME to the airport and saying goodbye.

Anyways that is all for now.

Cuidate.

lisa

Aug. 27, 2007 - summer update

Hi Everyone-

I know, I know it's been awhile.  What can I say, Summer has gotten the best of me, and I don't feel like being inside!  Up north, we need to take advantage of the nice summer days...when we get 'em!

Orlando is still working at the Pasta Restaurant.  The owner is opening another restaurant two door down from the place he works now.  The new one will be a sushi style restaurant.  So come September he will be splitting hours between the 2 places, which means more money and more of our bills paid off. 

He is enjoying work alot, he was suppose to get a raise 3 months in, and he went to the boss and told him that he wanted one now, that he felt he deserved it b/c he works long hours and takes on extra little jobs that is not required.  And the boss agreed and gave him a pay raise. They are really good to him there.  He eats for free there, and that cuts back on our grocery bills b/c it's not like he has to take a lunch to work with him.  He likes the people he works with for the most part.  My brother also works there, as the chef, he was actually the one who helped get him his job.  Of course every job you go to, there is the workplace bullcrap politics, that everyone gets caught up every once in a while.  Not Orlando.  I'm not sure if it's b/c he may not understand everything, that is going on around him, and doesn't pay attention to it, or it's his personality and he just lets things go and dosen't get excited over things.  My brother, on the other hand, can be very short tempered and the good thing with Orlando and him working together, is Orlando is like a calming effect for him.  And it really is a good trait that Orlando has.  He can talkt o my brother and make him see things that the rest of our family can't.  And he will listen to Orlando and so the relationship there is strong.

We have done a few things this summer, spent more time with our friends, of course, with BBQs and we went to the Buskers (street entertainment) we have a week long festival on our waterfront.  And these people come and put on shows all day long for the people, wth exchange of donations as they are not paid by the city to come.  It's fun, lots of things to see, new and funny acts to watch.  It has been fun.

This past weekend, was the annual Latin festival where the Latin community has gotten together to put on a weekend of differnt activities.  Finishing with a day at the Commons in the centre of the city, on Sunday.  With dancing, music from different Latin countries.  Food, and had a soccor game, face paiting and a bouncy castle for the kids.  It was fun, to meet the different people in our community.  The day was perfect on Sunday.  The weather was beautiful and the company was great.  Very enjoyable.

Other then that, we are working and saving our pennies to go back to the DR for a vacation.  We have decided to go in April.  Orlando is starting to get a bit homesick.  And missing his family and friends.  I asked if he wanted to stay with is parents or at a AI, he said AI, he didn't think he could go back to living the way his family does.  Not after being here for 9 months.  And by the time April reaches, it will be 16 months.

Trying to convince him to go for 2 weeks, but he is only wanting to go for a week.  We'll see how the money game fairs out closure to the trip.  We are going to go with another couple.  He is Dominican, who Orlando knew from POP who lives in Cda with his wife.  We might go down a week before they come, and then them meet us for the 2nd week.  Courtney and Julian had gone this past April, and did the 1dst trip back to the DR since Julian arrived, so they did all the visting with family.  So I figure that we can do that the first week we are there, and the 2nd week just relax and enjoy the week there.  Again money will ultimately dictate what we will do.  Orlado has started to pick up the odd things for his family a few short and tishirts and little games for his neices and nephews etc....I figure that him and I will share a suitcase, and the 2nd suitcase will be gifts for his family.  Oh well, as long as it makes them happy, and knowing they have less then us, then how can I argue with that?

Well that is all for now, Cuidate!

Jul. 11, 2007 - mini update

Hi-

Orlando has gotten a new job. His old one, the security company, he wasn't getting alot of hours.  In fact, he didn't work for the last 2 weeks.  It's hard b/c the security company gets contracts, and then assigns the guys out to work.  But if they don't ahve contract, or the weather is crappy, then the guys don't work.  Well the weathe ris the craps here in Nova Scotia, so he hasn't worked.  He went to pick up his paycheque last Fri, and the guy said they would have tons of work this week.  Well it's Tuesday and still no call. 

So, my borther got him a job on Monday, working in a restaurant.  He's in thge kitchen doing prep work for the chef, and doing clean up, and dishes.  It's not a glamorous job, but it pays the bills.  He's getting alot of hours, and it's FULL TIME!  So that is all we care about.

The first night, I picked him up, he got in the car and said "YOU think I'm staying at this job for one week?  Forget it!"  He said there must have been about 300 people that went into the restaurant from the dishes that came back to be cleaned.  (I've been to the place, if the restaurant is filled to the max occupancy, it might have 25 tables) I just smiled.  And told him he had been on vacation for the last 2 weeks, welcome back to the real world.  He was cranky b/c he was tired.  But I told him it was a job, and what did he expect that he was going to come to Cda, and be the president of a bank?  I told him he has to start somewhere and this IS somewhere.  I reminded him of the conversations we had when he was in the DR, and I was in Cda, and when he first got to Cda, that he would do ANYTHING, and would work 2 or 3 jobs if need be.  That quieted him down a bit.  When we got home, I gave him a cold beer, and that seemed to take his mind of things.

The next night, he got in the car, and was in a good mood, and said it's wasn't as bad as the first night.  (An improvement, although slight, I'll take it).  He said he likes the people that worked there, and really liked the boss.  After 3 months he'll get a raise and benefits.  The owner is from Greece, and is an Immigrant himself.  When my brother said he had someone to work, that he was from the Dominican Republic, the owner was exicted, saying "they ahve really good work ethic, hee'll be a hard worker".  So far, they have been really pleased with his work.   They are concnered that he will get burnt out b/c Orlando won't take any breaks or suppers.  The chef made Orlando some chicken, and told him to go and sit down for a half hour to enjoy it, and have a break.  Orlando went outside, downed the chicken, and right back in within 15 minutes.  So I am going to have to remind him that in Cda, by law you ahve to take your breaks and suppers.  Maybe that will get him to slow down.

He's off tomorrow and Friday, and back in Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.  Then enxt week, he'll be working days from then on.  Thank God, b/c now while he's working nights, and I'm days, he gets home and is all hyped up, and I want to sleep b/c I have to work in the morning. Not a good mixture.  But basically he'll be days so that's good.

The boss told him that they would work around his school schedule in Septemeber, when he goes back to English classes.  His boss told him it was important for him to learn to read and write Englsih better.  It will really help him make his life better here in Cda.  B/c he went throught hte same thing when he came from Greece.  I think Orlando is very lucky to have a boss that understands where he is coming from, and has gone through the same thing.  It is nice that he is willing to give Orlando and chance to show what he can do.

Saturday I'm taking him to the Valley to pick strawberries.  He hasn't been to the "countryside" as he calls it.  Now that it's summer (or what I would like to call autumn right now, our weather sucks!) we are able to get out and do more.  So we will go down there, and pick starawberries, and then coome home, and go to my grandmothers to make homemade freezer jam for her.  Orlando will never be the same after that.  Nanny got all ready and bought 6 bags of sugar.  Once he commits to thqat, he'l be roped in summer after summer for her.  The upshot, we get freezer jam for picking the berries and making the jam....mmmm love strawberry jam in the middle of the winter!

So that is all that is going on here thus far.

Cuidate!

Jun. 30, 2007 - little update

Hi Everyone-

Anyone who is bringing there husband to Cda, or any country for that matter.  And it is the first time their spouse has been "out" pf the DR, I would recommend taking them to MISA (Metrolpolotian Immigration Settlement Association) or some sort of Immigration settlement program.  They offer so much support and assistance to help newcomers adjust to life out of their homeland.

Orlando and I went when he first arrived, to help him find a job, as well as help him find English classes.  He speaks English well, and understands when you speak, but his writing skills are not the best.  Not even in Spanish! LOL  And I am of no assistance b/c I can't spell if my life depended on it.  So we went to MISA.  They set him up with and English assesment.  ANd once assessed, he was put on al ist to get into ESL (English as a Second Langauge)  He was recommended to go full time, however, Orlando and I both decided he would go part time b/c he wanted to work at the same time to help pay bills, and send money home to his parents.  So he is enrolled to start classes in Septemeber 2007.  He is very excited.  He will go 845am-1145 am, Mon-Fri, and he will try to find a job in the afternoons and early evenings.

We also met with an employment cousnellor, who helped Orlando make a resume.  She has one on file, and she will make contact with employers who she knows of, to let them know, she knows of someone (Orlando) and what skills and trades he has.  She will see if they have an job opnenings and try to find him a job.  Also, there are companys in the area who call MISA looking for job applicants.  His counsellor would give them Orlando's name and phone # for an interview to be set up.  I like this b/c these employers know these poeple are not from Cda, and are willing to give them a try, and understand where they are coming from.

Also, Orlando is looking online for jobs too.  He has a part time job,m even though they say it's full time, it's not.  He's working still, as the traffic control person, for construction sites around teh city while they repair the roads.  However, if the weather is crappy, or they have no contracts, Orlando doesn't work.  So it's like that.  I consider it part time.

But he's still enjoying it here, now that the weather is becoming nicer, and he's out playing baseball more and more.  I'm glad he's liking it here.  He's now getting ready to go back, talking about it more and more.  He wants to save money, so I'm hoping that maybe next year, in April we will go back for a visit.  Oh how I miss home!

Cuidate!

Lisa

Jun. 10, 2007 - Lo Siento!

Hi Everyone-

Sorry I haven't blogged in a while, I have busy with a thing called "life".  LOL

For the person who wrote annyomously, that Orlando dumped me, well that is the farest thing from the truth.  Don't get me wrong, we do have our fair share of arguments.  But we always resolve, them.  Neither one of us will go to bed angry. 

I haven't blogged for a while, b/c there wasn't much to blog on.  And I don't like to blog for the sake of blogging.

As for what is new, I went back ot my old job, which is 9-5 and Orlando and I able to spend more time together.  He is currently working for a Security company, doing traffic control along construction sites in the Halifax Muncipality.  They are long hours, when there is work available.  B/c the job is outside, he hadn't worked for a week b/c of all the rain we are getting lately.

On his weekends, the Dominicanos of Halifax, have finally gotten their baseball team up and running.  Here in Halifax, you can signa a team up and play through the summer.   And at the eend of the summer, the 2 best teams compete. Of course, these Dominicans don't sign up, they just go down to the baseball fields, and watch different teams play, and then will set something up the following weekend. Its actually funny b/c the wives go and watch their guys play, and the guys run and screaming at each other in Spanish.  They'll come over in between innings for some Brugal or cervezas.  It's fun, and nice to get out in the sun.  So this is ususally our Sunday ritual. 

Throughout the week, Orlando and his Dominican friend, Henry, will "scout" out the teams who have played during the week, for  game the follwing Sunday.

We hae some nice coupls of days, here and there.  Orlando is use to the weather, and he likes the tempurture changes, and weather changes. He always tells me, "Lisa I have spent 24 years in the Dominican, where if it is sunny it's hot, if it's cloudy, it's hot/  When it rains, it's still hot"  So he enjoys the changes.

My cousins has a pool  in her backyard, and they have openend it, for their kids.  I asked Orlando if he wanted to go swimming, he tested the water, and said forget it.  The water was 78 degrees.  If I were to bet any amount of money, I can ensure you that he will never swim outside in Cda.

B/c the weather is starting to get nice, we have more opportunity to go out and he can really see what Nova Scotia and Halifax in particular, is all about. 

Orlando has made many friends, and sees them regularily.  Most are form either the DR, or Cuba.  As well, he will walk up to any stranger on the ball fields, and will ask if he can play with them too.  He's not shy, which is good b/c he needs that type of personality, to help him adjust.  Not sitting in the house, doing nothing.

He has made a true Dominican flight.  He made it with a green garbage bak, dowels form Home Depot.  He enmjoys taking that down to the baseball fields and fly it.  He has 1600 feet of nylong string, which he uses all!  It takes about an hour sometimes more, just to get it down.  But people will come over and talk to him, to ask about his kite.  They are in awe of how high he gets his kite.

New new Latin Club opened, on Spring Garden Road, called Club Caliente.  It is owned by a Cuban, and the DJ is from Santiago, Dominican Republic.  Orlando knows these guys really well, so we spend a lot of time there.  The chef at the club, is Cuban as well, and man can she COOK!

Other then that, there is not much to blog on.  Once we get out more, and he can see the rest of the province, then I'm sure I'll have updates.  Other then that, we are enjoying our time together, and having lots of laughs.  I really am lucky to have a guy like Orlando. 

In January, when I asked Orlando when did he wantt o go back to POP for a visit.  He wasn't ready.  Now he is.  I think b/c both Henry and his friend Julian have gone in the last couple of monts.  So he's ready now.  But I think we are going to back in April of 2008.  We want to have everything in order, and ensure we have enough moeny while down there, for spending b/c I know we will need to buy some things for his family.  He has been sending some of his paycheqs down ot his parents, but I know when we get back there, we will spend more.  So I want to make sure we paid for the trip and have adequate spending money.  So hence why the trip will be in April of next year.  Save, save, save!

ANywas, again sorry I haven't blogged, I'll try to do it more often.  Thanks for all your comments, and inquiries.  I'll keep you posted.

Cuidate!

Lisa

Apr. 2, 2007 - Baseball, baseball, baseball!!!!

Hi Everyone-

I know, I know, it's been a while.  Not much has been  going on here in Halifax, and I don't want to bore people, so I only post when there is something going on, or something that makes me smile or laugh.

And here is just one of those incidents.....As I mentioned when Oralndo first arrived, back in Dec, he was DYING to play softball.  Every day I had to drive past the Commons, so he could see the baseball fields we have.  The Commons, is in the middle of our city, and it's a huge common ground, and has a water fountain in the centre, and 6 regulatory baseball fields around the fountain.  He is mesmorized with this.  I told him when the weather got nice, then he would see people out playing baseball, or walking their dogs, playing frisbee, flying kites etc.

Well, Orlando is finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.....over the weekend, we were driving past the Commons, and he saw people playing catch, and hitting a ball, just messing around.  He asked me to stop the car, and he got out, walked up to these 2 guys, and asked if he could join in, and play with them.  I stayed in the car b/c to me, it's not nice enough to sit on the bleachers.  But he had fun, hitting the ball, then pitching the ball, and then catching the ball.  he was out playing for about 45 minutes...thank god I had my cell phone, and caught up with some old friends!  LOL.  But when he got back int he car, he was happy, and you could tell, the excitement was building b/c it's soon time for spring and summer here.  To mee, it means flip flop season, and warmer weather....to him it only means one thing...BASEBALL SEASON!!!!!!!!!!!

Cuidate

Lisa