Paige out West

Twenty-eight is Great!

2011-10-24T22:46:00.004-05:00

I’m only two months into 28 and I’m already accomplishing a lot of my goals for this age. In fact, I even completed one of my goals – getting genetic testing - a week before my birthday. Great News! I found out that I am negative for the BRCA1 gene (the breast cancer gene). As many of you know, with the bad news of my mom’s breast cancer came the compounded bad news that she has the breast cancer gene. This meant that I had a 50% chance of getting the gene as well. Thankfully I don’t have it and I cannot pass it to my progeny.

Side note of awesome news – my mom’s September bi-yearly scan came back clear yet again. Her oncologist said she responded to the chemo better than anyone he’s ever seen.

As such, my birthday this year was really a celebration of me and a lifetime of keeping my boobs. This cake, a gift from Colleen, really tied it all together.

This cake was just one of the many wonderful birthday surprises that awaited me. Paul planned the most amazing multiple stage birthday party with surprise guests and adventures: twilight prom photo opps, picnic by the gorge, hike around cool waterfalls, yummy Mexican food with 15 buddies, and then 90s dancing.

Goal: Dance Every Birthday

2011-10-24T22:45:00.001-05:00

In addition to dancing to celebrate my birthday, a week later I got a surprise visit from Julie Sandoz just two days before she shipped off to Haiti for five months. It’s just like her to pack-in as much salsa as possible before re-locating. Her very candid and sweet blog about her experience can be found here. http://www.haitiengineer.blogspot.com/

Goal: Travel to More Exotic Locations ;)

2011-10-24T22:43:00.001-05:00

Dallas: check

Las Vegas: check

Goal: Not Hurting Myself

2011-10-24T22:41:00.004-05:00

Last time I went out 80s dancing my dress fell apart and stabbed me. This time my coworker, Heather, and I just broke hearts.

My first cyclo-cross race in two years. Bruises and scrapes are almost all healed.

Goal: Attract European Visitors

2011-10-24T22:31:00.007-05:00

Five years after finishing my master’s program I finally got my first visitor – Bettina! I knew this would be my big chance to woo more friends across the Atlantic so we went for it. In just three days we saw Portland, Eugene, Crater Lake, Redding, and San Francisco. We also had some real cultural experiences.

Bettina’s first – and last – corn dog. Yum.

Our biking adventure ended in hitch hiking. Bettina experienced some real American hospitality – or pity depending how you look at it.

In the last year, David has not only become even more handsome, but also a certified sailor. I discovered that I’m actually pretty bad at it but man it’s fun and exciting.

Goal: Not Kidnapping the Children in my Life

2011-10-24T21:40:00.003-05:00

This last goal is going to be tough.

Leah, a dear friend from Hungary, was back in California for a few weeks on furlough. Every time she visits she brings a new bundle of cuteness. It’s a good thing baby Ezstie lives in Hungary because otherwise she’d be too easy to snatch-up.

Oliver and Tyler came down for my birthday weekend. Oliver loves the Portland Street cars.

Funemployment: All good things must come to an end

2011-07-16T17:56:00.004-05:00

Yes, it's true I'm no longer funemployed. I got a real job!!! Check me a out. I've been with COMPASS for two months now. The people I work with are really cool AND the mission of the organization is in line with my life goals. It feels so good to be back using my brain.

Before starting work I do what I always do when I'm broke: go on vacation. My Seattle besties, Kim, Cait, Kirsten, and I went to Sedona to get in touch with our vortexes. We're planning on doing this bonding trip once a year. We can't always wait for a bachelorette party to have fun.

First stop after proper caffination: climbing a mountain. Camelback was owned.

We came to Sedona for the sun. Note to self, wait for May.

Bunker cashed in her hotel points so we could stay in style.

Classy is really the theme running through this whole trip.

Devils Bridge: The most beautiful hike of my life to date.

I also head up to Seattle any chance I can.

2011-07-16T17:53:00.002-05:00

The obsession continues. He's a biker like his auntie.

Getting into Portland Culture

2011-07-16T15:52:00.007-05:00

Yup, the occasional Timbers game.

Themed Parties: Bunker visiting is just the excuse to go to my first 90s party. Yes, 90s parties exist now.

Yoga + Hiking: Bunker and I escape the hipsters for some fresh air.

Technically the half marathon was in Seattle. But, my training runs helped me get the lay of the land in Portland. I found training beforehand is a much better way to go.

My upcoming adventures will include but not be limited to: day of coordinating Karissa's wedding (got to use that Urban Light Studios training somehow), doing Dallas (visiting Colleen and watching the Ducks in the Cowboy Cup), going to my high school ten year reunion, and turning 28! My next post will also include a family photo shoot from my parents' 40th Wedding Anniversary. This shoot was even better than the pre-chemo photos - get ready.

Portland: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful

2011-03-30T09:43:00.001-06:00

I love being back in Oregon: no sales tax, flat commutes, awesome public transportation... the list goes on and on. Furthermore, moving to Portland was about the easiest move possible. As one of my new friends, Cincy, said 'the Portland womb has opened up to me'. I don't know what that means but it's definitely positive.

The Good

2011-03-30T09:38:00.006-06:00

It's pretty amazing to move to a new city and already have a line-up of people who want to hang out. I have a preestablished network of salsa buddies, cycling friends, snow bunnies, hiking partners, Spanish speakers, Jesus lovers, themed partiers, foodies and other fun adventurers. Many in this group are childhood friends. There is something to be said for having friendships with people who know your family and who you were as a child. I also love that I run into people I know, mainly from high school, around town. Portland really is just a bigger Eugene...and the dream of the 90s.

My streak of most amazing roommates continues here in Portland. I knew we were off to a great start when Connor and I rolled up in a UHaul at 1:30 am to find Dustin had made two little beds for us, left a light on, and even had a pot of homemade soup for us in the fridge. He also leaves me love notes / sends me sweet text messages when we miss each other because of our wacky schedules. I am so lucky.

This move has also proved to be beneficial to my game. Examine, if you will, these two photos:

Who wears a snuggie to a going away party? Never mind there is the 'sexy dress' underneath on loan from the Kimberly Tracy collection.

I wasn't even trying to do a Blue Crush face. I'm just that hard core. Is it any wonder that I got a date out of this surfing weekend. ;)

The Bad

2011-03-30T09:38:00.001-06:00

This is going to come as a big shock: I am an impatient person. Yes, it's true. While I shouldn't be restless for not having a permanent job after ten weeks of living here, I am. I'm looking for that job that is the perfect combination of making the world a better place and actually getting a pay check that can support my crazy adventures. For now I have a temp job that doesn't really accomplish either of those goals. However, I will say this job is the most ridiculous to date. I signed a non-disclosure agreement with my temp agency but let's just say part of the job involves women + sexual frustration and the other involves a male body part + a Spanish speaking country. Piqued your interest?

I am also trying a new form of shameless self promotion: being a guinea pig in a research study at OHSU. The study is on a new birth control patch. (No, I'm not testing it's efficacy.) The nice thing about doing this project is I'm meeting a lot of researchers, getting paid, and contributing to science. In the process I have learned a lot more about my body without getting fat or crazy. Everybody wins.

The Beautiful

2011-03-30T09:13:00.006-06:00

The powder is EPIC this winter/spring. I am thankful to have a few buddies who are happy to play hookie from work when there is powder + sun. Night skiing is also a popular Portland activity that I fully support.

Luke spent most of the day applying sunscreen to make sure he didn't get incriminating goggle marks.

Hot onesie on loan from the Connie Beckley ski bunny collection. (formatting is weird because I'm doing this on the temp computer. ;))

2011-03-30T09:09:00.001-06:00

The primary purpose of this move is to be closer to my parents. But, those world travelers are all over the crazy place. How can they look this happy when I'm over 7,000 miles away?

I'm joking; I'm happy my parents are buzzing around. Right now they are in Japan. They're coming back for a couple weeks before heading to Dubai and then Germany. I guess this confirms wanderlust is genetic.

2011-03-29T22:16:00.003-06:00

When my parents aren't in Oregon, I take the opportunity to head to Seattle to see my favorite little person: Oliver Beckley. He is such a big boy (both literally and figuratively). He turned the big three last month. Bouncy house + Pizza + New Toys + Cake = best birthday ever.

I'm setting the precedent that anytime Auntie is in town we do something fun. (I mean other than the usual snuggling, pancake eating, book reading, fort building, and dancing business.) Last visit we went to the zoo. How many monkeys are in this photo?

Argentina: the best place ever?

2010-12-26T19:05:00.001-06:00

By the grace of my employers, www.urbanlightstudios.com, and some majorly stored up frequent flier miles, I managed to leave the country during my first year on the job. My European readers are probably scratching their heads, but my American (including Latin American) readers know what I am talking about. An awesome vacation like this isn’t possible without some major job flexibility. I am so grateful. This trip was exactly what Esther, my travel buddy; my parents; and I needed. My 12 days south were a combination of relaxing, adventure, quality, and SUN. Oh, did I mention I managed to miss snow in Seattle…again?! Below are some of the highlights of our adventure. Enjoy.

Buenos Aires: the city that never sleeps unless your awesome dad puts you and your GF up in a Marriot

2010-12-26T19:03:00.001-06:00

There were two distinct components to this trip: dirt bagging and glam. As you might imagine the glam part happened when Mom and Dad invited us to tango shows, multiple course dinners with wine pairings, tango classes, as well as many other civilized and fun activities. Esther and I when left to our devices ate a lot of sandwiches, shared liter beers out of plastic cups, took city buses, and stayed in hostels. Our hostel in Mendoza had a pool, for the record, I’m getting to that.

The famous obelisk in Buenos Aires.

Our family friend, Lauren, just happened to be doing study abroad in Buenos Aires while we were visiting. She was an excellent guide.

Over Night Bus Trips: The mobile city that never lets you sleep

2010-12-26T18:57:00.004-06:00

Buses are our preferred mode of travel. They are cheap, it’s easy to cover a lot of ground, AND you don’t have to pay for a hostel for the night. Our first trip to Mendoza on the bus was a total dream: the bus was clean, the attendant was really witty and even lead us in bingo, and well the food was about on par with the other buses.

We were so inspired that a couple days later we took a night bus to Cordoba and then a night bus to Buenos Aires the very next day. Back to back night buses are not advisable as you can see from our sleep deprived photo shoot in Cordoba.

Somehow this Fernet (the Argentinian equivalent of Jagermeister) and Pepsi managed to restore me to some type of sanity, or perceived sanity. It was by taking these photos that we realized how tired we actually looked.

Upsallata: Best of BFE

2010-12-26T18:56:00.001-06:00

After crazy nights of hosteling and urban adventure, Esther and I decided to cut out to a tiny little village called Upsallata on the foothills of the andes. We had a great warm day of horse bike riding and trekking. We also call this the day I couldn’t look more American and Esther couldn’t look more German.

We knew our guide would be cool, just look at that awesome hat.

We hitch-hiked back to Mendoza with this group of dudes staying at our hostel. Don’t worry, I only hitch hike in foreign countries. Safety first.

2010-12-26T18:54:00.000-06:00

Esther demonstrates walking on the moon. Running through rocks is up there on the fun-o-meter with descending by butt in snow.

Ischigualasto: Let’s just call it Valle de la Luna for simplicity’s sake

2010-12-26T18:38:00.003-06:00

This place is heaven for paleontologists, geologists, and people who’d like to go to the moon but don’t have the $150,000 to get there. The Ischigualasto formation contains Late Triassic deposits (230 million years before the present), with some of the oldest known dinosaur remains. It is the only place in the world where nearly all of the Triassic is represented in an undisturbed sequence of rock deposits.

This place was so cool that it helped us forget our worries of staying in a hostel in San Juan which was like living in the house from the movie Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead before the kids got their act together. Oh, and our driver was fighting sleep the majority of the trip. The experience made us thankful to be alive and scabies free.

Back to Nicaragua

2010-12-26T18:37:00.000-06:00

Once back in Buenos Aires, through way of Córdoba, we met up with our friend Hernán. Hernán was one of our buddies in our student residence in León, Nicaragua. Since our time together studying in Nicaragua, Hernán has joined in the Argentinian equivalent of the foreign service. His new position worked out great for us because he had a little more flex schedule and was even more of an expert on Argentinean history.

Next Adventure: Portland, Oregon

2010-12-26T18:26:00.006-06:00

It’s official, as of January 15 I will be returning to my Oregon roots. I’ve loved living in Seattle but I feel the pull to be closer to family and also to get back on the public health / international development career track. (Shameless plug for job leads.) Here are just some of the reasons I’ll miss Seattle:

Seigfried, Tiger that maimed Seigfried, and Carebear (with homemade costume)

Parties and photo shoots organized by Carrie http://www.explosion5000.com/blog

Steph and Audrey (cutest baby ever)

Snuggler!

And, of course, my core group. We’re heading to Victoria tomorrow so I’m sure I’ll get some good shots of us there.

Mon Vie en Fete

2010-09-11T19:38:00.000-05:00

My friend Malorie, see jetblue pictures, once spent an academic year in Alaska. When I asked her how she survived the darkness she told me, “themed parties”. I’ve taken her brilliant approach this summer. Below please find a photo journalistic perspective on my party season.

Kim y Brian

2010-09-11T19:33:00.002-05:00

Who said weddings had to be serious?

Who says you need a wedding cake? Sharat and I were the official wedding donut delivers. So there were a couple missing when we arrived to the weddings, ndb.

Kirsten's Hotel Birthday Party

2010-09-11T19:31:00.000-05:00

This was the first and potentially last sampling of Veuve. Sharat gave Caitlin this fine bottle for graduation. Not knowing what a gem it was we ‘accidentally’ drank it out of plastic cups at the Holiday Inn Express in Renton. Synchronized swimming, nail painting, and prank calls followed.

Bachelorette Debauchery

2010-09-11T19:04:00.005-05:00

This trip not only confirmed that the Oregon Coast is the most beautiful place ever but also that Kim is a bride worth celebrating. She is the only person who could make granny panties look this good.

White elephant gifts are even more dangerous at a Bachelorette party. Something about Caitlin’s furry red shoes and belly tattoo encouraged her to climb this pole, I followed suit.

The big 27!

2010-09-11T19:00:00.001-05:00

My birthday confirmed that not only are my friends and family the best, they are also the smartest. The party consisted of trivia at a bonehead Belltown bar, which we won, and then dancing. I decided that every birthday here on out will involve some sort of dance.

Ciao Chemo

2010-09-11T18:59:00.002-05:00

My mom finished chemo at the beginning of July. She had a party to thank all of the friends who hung out with her at chemo, brought meals, and were overall awesome. The PET scan was clear so we’re breathing a sigh of relief. It wouldn’t be a party without my mom’s amazing décor.

There’s a party in my pants

2010-09-11T18:56:00.002-05:00

A right of passage: Grandpa and Grandma give Oliver his first pair of lederhosen.

Beef Party: Round 4

2010-09-11T18:48:00.002-05:00

Back in November my mom accidentally ordered half a cow. (Splitting a cow with a friend literally meant right down the middle.) Over the past 10 months my roommates and I have been getting plenty of iron and throwing a series of parties.

Warning: Pictures may cause nausea

2010-05-18T00:35:00.008-05:00

My dad arranged a little family photo shoot before my mom lost her hair. (Side note: she does have a really cute little head.) During the shoot there was a three way tie for most awkward moment. 1) The photographer asking us to "act natural". Really? Men in suits acting natural? 2) The photographer not knowing the context for us getting family photos. 3) The 80s style picture of my mom and I looking at each other.

Man, with three good looking kids like us, it's hard to imagine we're all single. Yup, that was my not so subtle hint that the Beckley boys, Oliver first and foremost, are the most important men in my life these days. Footless and fancy free again.

Hangin' Tough

2010-04-07T01:15:00.003-05:00

First the good news, I am really loving my job at Urban Light Studios: www.urbanlightstudios.com. I am a party girl at heart. (Party girl = like groups of people, not a total drunk just to clear the record.) I enjoy helping people put together weddings, events, and fundraisers. It’s also flexible work hours which means a combo of not having to wake up super early and being able to go home to Eugene whenever I need.

Additionally, life with Justin is turning out to be awesome. We’ve had some fun adventures up at the Olympics in Vancouver, ski trips (see photos), and drives to Eugene. While nothing about family tragedy is well-timed or convenient, I am very thankful and blessed to have met Justin before a time such as this.

In my free time I started my best followed blog: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/conniebeckley/ My dad and I post regularly to keep people current about my mom’s health. The idea is that by explaining the medical component on the blog, my parents and I can talk to friends about life instead of treatment strategies. It is indeed the journey that we did not choose but we’re doing it.

Surgery Update

2010-01-27T14:51:00.000-06:00

Dad's email:

All,

Connie is out of surgery and in recovery. It went well. The surgeon removed the lump and surrounding tissue to achieve clean margins. He also removed lymph nodes as some had cancer cells. It was about as he expected. I should be taking Connie home in a couple of hours.

The plan will be four months chemo followed by radiation.

We continue to be optimistic. We will beat this disease with some help from a very skilled medical team.

Sad News from Home

2010-01-16T06:08:00.002-06:00

This email from my dad explains it:

Connie has breast cancer. Her last mammogram revealed a lump which was biopsied and determined to be malignant. The mass is about 2 cm and the stage of the cancer is either IIA or IIB depending on if it has spread to her lymph nodes. The good news is that it was detected early. The bad news is that the cancer cells are a fast growing type.

Connie is scheduled for a lumpectomy on January 27. She will have some additional testing to include an MRI to see if they can determine if the cancer has spread to her lymph nodes prior to surgery. The surgeon may take some nodes or all depending on what he finds. The surgery is fortunately a day surgery and she should be finished at the hospital in about four hours with relatively little discomfort. She will undergo about 4 months of chemotherapy followed by about 1 ½ months of radiation therapy.

We are positive. We are going to beat this. We are going to take it one day at a time and not let it control our life. I know we have support from all of you and that is comforting. I know Connie will appreciate hearing from you. I can’t tell you anything else and, frankly, I don’t want to further discuss the disease, the treatment, or the prognosis because at this point, you know what we know.

Thanks for your love and support.

2010: Gird Your Loins

2010-01-02T18:13:00.001-06:00

Ladies and Gentlemen I have a very important announcement; in 2010 I, Paige Beckley, will be gainfully employed. My new title is Studio and Event Manager at Urban Light Studios at the Greenwood Collective. This year the Greenwood Collective is shifting from a coworking office to a studio and event space managed by Urban Light Studios. My task is to help Kevin and Julie Law develop the space into the place to book photo shoots, art shows, concerts, weddings, parties, conferences, and other events. This position is a bit off the career path but it is a valuable opportunity to learn more about marketing, business, event planning, and other skills that could serve me well when/if I transition back into international health.

My last two months as a self-employed person was very productive. I squeezed in one last sweet trip down to Arizona to visit my grandparents and friends Colleen and Kate. I also had a really great Christmas break with my family and second family, the Rudmans, in central Oregon. While in Seattle, I had time to snatch up a boyfriend, Justin. We’ve already had some fun adventures in the short time we’ve been dating; I have the feeling that he will be a regularly featured person on this blog. Of course no one could ever take the place of the biggest paigedeut.blogspot.com star: Oliver Beckley.

Taking the Plunge!

2010-01-02T18:09:00.002-06:00

Every New Year’s Day at noon Seattle Parks and Recreation hosts the Polar Bear Plunge at Matthew’s Beach. In addition to our commemorate badges, the photo below is evidence that Kirsten and I entered the water. The photo shows the scene of rando Seattilites with hippee leanings and Kirsten and I screaming our heads off to the right. We’ll be back for more next year. Giddeeup

Brian and Kim got engaged! They’ll be tying the knot this summer. Yay! (Photo www.explosion5000.com)

Salsa New Years

2010-01-02T18:08:00.000-06:00

The up side of Julie living in Philly is that every time she comes to visit is a reason to have a party. We brought in the New Year watching the fireworks from the Space Needle, socializing with randos, and dancing salsa until almost 4 am.

Christmas with family

2010-01-02T18:02:00.003-06:00

I got in four awesome days of skiing at Mt. Bachelor with my family and the Rudmans.

I gave Oliver an awesome balance bike for Christmas. (Balance Bike = little bike with no pedals so children learn to balance by running and sitting on the seat.) I was upstaged, however, by my brother who gave Oliver a play vacuum cleaner. He likes cleaning in addition to dancing, snuggling, and swimming! He just might be the perfect man; now if we can get him potty trained.

Make new friends but keep the old

2010-01-02T17:55:00.005-06:00

This isn’t Europe, this is a classy establishment called Sloops Tavern serving Ranier or Budlight. Sloopersize me.

OMSI just got Samson, one of the most complete T-Rex skeletons. Justin and I checked him out while visiting friends in Portland.

Colleen and I call this our lesbian Christmas card photo.

The girls in my core group continue to amaze me.

Best of Jetsetting

2009-11-07T01:28:00.001-06:00

I’m back in Seattle! Yay! My computer died a couple days after returning, thus explaining the much belated update. Sorry adoring blog fans. Please read below for the highlights my month long Jet Blue adventure.

Mo'town Philly

2009-11-07T01:25:00.004-06:00

Julie planned every glorious minute of our time together. Think lots of dancing – both salsa and to Boyz II Men; city exploring – Amish lands, Atlantic City, and downtown Philly; delicious food – frozen custard in a pretzel cone, Philly Steak Sandwitches, and crazy Amish cheeses; and really good catch-up time.

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2009-11-07T01:25:00.001-06:00

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Julie has moves.

2009-11-07T01:24:00.001-06:00

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It wouldn't be a Paige and Julie adventure without some hiking with our salsa.

2009-11-07T01:23:00.001-06:00

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In the center of it all, indeed.

2009-11-07T01:22:00.001-06:00

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Stay classy Atlantic City.

2009-11-07T01:21:00.001-06:00

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We take the boardwalk really seriously.

2009-11-07T01:20:00.003-06:00

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2009-11-07T01:20:00.001-06:00

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Glamorous as Atlantic City itself.

2009-11-07T01:17:00.002-06:00

Heaven = 25 cent apple cider.

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The town is called intercourse. I don't really know what else there is to say.

DC Fix

2009-11-07T01:14:00.005-06:00

DC continues to blow my mind. There is always something fun to do especially with Malia as Julie’s and my guide. Highlights included the National Portrait Gallery, hearing Earl Palmer at National Presbyterian, the ballet at the Kennedy Center, meeting up with my DC peeps, and dancing with Georgetown boys wearing salmon colored shirts with popped collars (half joking).

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Kennedy was just asking for it.

2009-11-07T01:14:00.001-06:00

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We love Obama.

2009-11-07T01:13:00.003-06:00

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Something about a day this beautiful makes one want to break out in song and dance.

2009-11-07T01:13:00.001-06:00

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Fun at the portrait gallery.

2009-11-07T01:12:00.001-06:00

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We love public transportation.

B'more

2009-11-03T18:23:00.002-06:00

Neysa, roommie from Freshman year at UW, is kicking A$# and taking names at Johns Hopkins Nursing School. I went to two of her classes on Nutrition during Pregnancy and Delivery Care. What really won me over was her sweet ride to school. Way to keep it real Johns Hopkins.

NYC - TGI Tuesday

2009-11-03T18:21:00.002-06:00

I have a love/hate relationship with New York. It appears that New York feels the same about me. The Subway oozed black goo on my head while riding to meet Steph B, high school swimming buddy, for coffee. Later, while sipping said coffee and enjoying the sunny day a pigeon proceeded to poop on my head, shirt, and skirt. That’s good luck in some cultures, right?

On the positive side, NYC lives up to its reputation of always having something going on. On a random Tuesday night Maggie, her mama, and I were out until 2 am dancing to the best cover band ever at Black Fat Pussy Cat by NYU. Photos are too incriminating to post here. ;)

Costa Rica: Pura Vida...y Aventura

2009-11-03T18:18:00.005-06:00

Scene 1: San Jose Airport

IMMIGRATION OFFICER:
What is the address where you will be staying?

PAIGE:
I am not sure. I am staying at a friend’s house.

IMMIGRATION OFFICER:
Where does this friend live?

PAIGE:
I don’t know. He is coming to pick me up.

IMMIGRATION OFFICER:
Where does this friend work?

PAIGE:
He studied computer science and business. I think he works in San Jose.

IMMIGRATION OFFICER:
Which cities will you be visiting?

PAIGE:
Also not sure. My friend will be taking me around.

CUSTOMS OFFICER:
(Stamps Passport)
Next time you should really get more concrete information before traveling internationally.

PAIGE:
Gracias.

Andrey thankfully did pick me up and everything came together. We started out the adventure with a historical tour around San Jose. Andrey explained the history of the country, showed me the most important historical buildings in San Jose, and also took me to a few museums. From there he took me to Cartago where I stayed for most of my trip with his girlfriend, Melania’s, family.

Cartago is a cute town in the mountains featuring a beautiful basilica. The best part of the city was Melania’s family. They were so welcoming and just great people. Katy, Melania’s mom, was my work out buddy. The highlight workout was a morning mountain bike ride with her and her girlfriends. These women know how to ride. I also went on adventures to the highest volcano in Costa Rica with Katy and Melania’s dad, Bernardo, and a spin around the valley with Katy and Abuela. It was really fun to be a part of the family for a week.

Over the weekend, Andrey, Melania, and I went on a road trip to Tilarán where Andrey’s family lives. The Arenal Volcano was out, we stopped by local sights, ate some great food, took pictures of sloths, and talked about life. Andrey’s family was also really great. They took us to Hot Springs by their house. That’s the life. Our trip back to Cartago was eventful with a stop at the beach, a quick tour of the Andrey’s brother’s University as well as the University where Andrey works http://www.incae.edu/EN/, and general sightseeing.

Costa Rica was an incredible trip and one of life’s wonderful surprises. I spent much of my time down there trying to convince Andrey and Melania to come to Seattle for their honeymoon. Hopefully they’ll be up soon.

Deja Vu

I remember coming to this church when I was on my fifth grade trip.

Our road trip just happened to coincide with the national day of tourism.

Warm and happy after a night at a hot springs.

Photo with Andrey's family after a delicious breakfast. Mmm...gallo pinto.

On the beach of Punta Arenas, for some unknown reason, this drink is called a Churchill. One thing I do know is that shaved ice + condenced milk + evaporated milk + red syrup + sherbert ice cream = tummy ache.

Melania's mom and grandma are the coolest.

Checking out Costa Rica's highest point with Melania's parents.

Andrey and Melania infront of the Basilica in Cartago.

Andrey poses with this important statue after explaining a bit of the history. It was a good story but I can't remember it. Whoops.

Boston in the Fall

2009-11-03T18:09:00.004-06:00

The best part of this jet setting experience was connecting with old friends, especially friends from high school. I love seeing their new lives and meeting their friends. It’s also pretty great that my friends live in really cool places. Boston highlights include visiting Erin and Malorie’s grad schools, a little bar and restaurant hoping, and a lot of laughter. See pictures of Malorie showing off the classy elevator at the New England School of Design and Erin and her friend Alexa showing Snuggie 1.0.

Dodging the Paparazzi in San Diego

2009-11-03T17:59:00.003-06:00

Laurel and I already have best friend rings so naturally the next step was best friend bikinis. We figure that since we don’t live in the same city that we’re probably cool to wear them. But then there are the times we are together and we get chased by Japanese tourists. Ok, maybe not chased. But there was definitely a point where we had four cameras and one camcorder on us while different men took turns posing with us.

Other highlights of San Diego included checking out the beautiful University of San Diego campus with my little neighbor, Ashley, who is now a grown-up college student. I also finally fit in a yoga class with my favorite yogi – www.gingeryogi.com . My favorite night included an Asian cooking studio with Colin and Peter – fellow signer of the Mathewson’s marriage certificate. I wasn’t really allowed to participate so ended up on the couch with my feet up watching Anthony Bourdain while they cooked. That’s the life.

Go Ducks!

2009-11-03T17:54:00.004-06:00

The Oregonian in me can’t deny the excitement around football season. Oliver is also in touch with his roots.

Taking this show on the road

2009-09-14T19:05:00.000-05:00

It’s true; thanks to JetBlue I’m back on the road again. I bought an unlimited travel pass to fly anywhere JetBlue flies between September 8th to October 8th. I’m already on my second stop in Philadelphia. I’m here salsaing, hiking, and general goofing around with partner in crime and newly Philadelphia resident: Julie. We’ll actually be staying at her house instead of a mini-van like our last adventure. We’re moving up in the world.

The timing of this trip could not be more perfect. I started a project for Simon’s company about a month ago. It’s on-demand research which works out to be about part-time. This means time to hang out with friends, an activity to entertain myself while friends are at work/school, and enough money to survive.

My last month in Seattle was so great that I almost didn’t want to leave. The weekend before my birthday I went to Victoria with the girls in my core group Bible study. (See photos below.) Once back in Seattle, I had a great family and roommate birthday party. Oliver and his dance moves were the life of the party. This 26th year is off to a great start.

Stop 1: Colorado

2009-09-14T18:57:00.003-05:00

Top: One of the highlights of visiting Colleen in Denver was a brunch at the Bump n’ Grind. On Sundays the waiters are in drag. I didn’t get any photos of them or us, out of respect of course, but here’s a bit of the décor to show the experience.

Bottom: Only in Boulder. Yup, this guy is playing a banjo while standing on his head.

Bday Bonanza

2009-09-14T18:52:00.003-05:00

The Olympic Crew: Liz, Rachel, Rosie, Cecy, and Me.

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Tea Time + Tea Cozies = Happy Girls

2009-09-14T18:43:00.002-05:00

Beautiful Victoria

2009-09-14T18:31:00.004-05:00

Self Employment Is the New Funemployment

2009-08-09T14:15:00.001-05:00

Good news! As of two weeks ago, I am employed. You’re looking at the principal of Piccola Group LLC. Piccola is an acronym for Project Coordination, Investigation / Research, Multilingual Communication, Consulting , Organizational Support, Logistics, and Administrative Solutions. The catch: I’m self employed and don’t have many clients. (Tell everybody you know I’m wide open for projects.) The hope is to build Piccola Group while looking for other full or part-time work. I’ll be working to expand my services - getting certified as a translator / interpreter, getting my liquor license - and learning about setting up a business - marketing, putting together a website, etc. It’s a fun project.

When I’m not “working” you’ll find me around Seattle swimming, playing tennis, salsa dancing, catching-up with friends, hosting parties, and hanging out with Oliver. Summer is hands down the best season to have free time. That being said, I’m really hoping that I land something more or less stable before too long.

As promised, below please find a photojournalism project on Julie’s and my epic trip to Vancouver, BC. We reached some new levels of dirt bagging.

Consulting Our Guide

2009-08-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

The first stop was visiting Dirt Bag Guru Leif Miller. We took the opportunity to play a little dress up. Leif proudly wears his birthday hat and elbow warmer. Don’t ask me what I’m wearing or thinking for that matter.

Breaking the Law…As Usual

2009-08-09T14:13:00.001-05:00

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “Ignorance is bliss.” Julie and I didn’t learn until the last day that cooking on the beach was illegal.

Taking Classy to a New Level

2009-08-09T14:12:00.003-05:00

Just to add a little challenge the trip we decided to maintain regular hygiene practices aka shower regularly. For that, thankfully, there are public pools. Vancouver takes it up a notch by offering public showers outside of public pool premises in Stanley Park. On day two, Julie had the privilege of showering outside with a local bum.

We don’t pay for Wifi, Meals, or Hotels

2009-08-09T14:10:00.003-05:00

Thank you citizens of Vancouver for not password protecting your Wifi.

We’d also like to thank the residents of the surrounding UBC neighborhood for letting us sleep in a mini van outside your house.

Finally, a big thank you to the neighbors in North Vancouver who let us cook French Toast in the gravel turn out by their driveway. Yum.

Hiking by Day, Salsa by Night

2009-08-09T14:07:00.008-05:00

Julie and I were meant to be friends because of our strange combinations of hobbies.

You Get the Idea

2009-08-08T21:21:00.005-05:00

For whatever reason, Julie and I only got hiking photos of us dirty and sweaty instead of salsaed out. Thankfully I did get some pictures of roommie Kim, her friend KC, and I before a night out in Seattle.

Here’s a video Julie took of me dancing with one of the best dancers in Seattle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Owt9BNNVvGw . Yay!

Roomers

2009-08-08T21:20:00.001-05:00

(coming soon)

A Toddler After My Own Heart

2009-08-08T21:17:00.006-05:00

Oliver’s favorite activities include swimming, dancing, playing dress-up, making noises, eating, napping (resulting in awesome bed head), “cooking”, and cuddling. Did I already mention I love him?

The end of an era: Employment

2009-06-23T17:50:00.003-05:00

Yes, it’s true. After the longest employment period of my young life, 12 months, I am joining the ranks of unemployed. The funny thing is that I couldn’t be happier. Don’t get me wrong, I loved my last job. The people I worked with, albeit remotely, were awesome. The work was interesting and challenging. However, there was always the knowledge in the back of my mind that it could be over any day. Somehow knowing that it is actually over is a comfort in itself.

Naturally, the question is, “what is the next step?” Well, I did what most people do when they loose their job: climbed a mountain. Then I roped a 40 hour contract as a computer programmer with one of my buddies, Gabe, from the Greenwood Collective. (Quick plug: Gabe is launching a really cool site where laypeople can build their own private or company website. Check out http://soapboxcms.com/ for details)

Between random odd jobs and applying for stable employment, I guess you could say that I am not really unemployed. But, my schedule is more flexible than ever. Salsa dancing until 2 am on Sunday night? Yes! Mid-week trip to Vancouver BC? Sure! Unlimited hot yoga for a month? Why not! Internet Dating? The jury is still out on that one. Enjoying summer in Seattle? Alright!

The only thing that is going to have to be put on hold a bit is the “working remotely” action. Thankfully before I lost my job I got in a whirl wind trip to California. In just five days I visited Connor in San Francisco, my second family – The Rudmans – in San Jose, the Stenzel family – visiting from Hungary – in San Luis Obispo, and my buddy Brooks in Monterey. It was a real logistical triumph and so much fun.

Thank you for all of your support and prayers during my employment and now unemployment. For my Seattle buddies: any employment leads are much appreciated. For the out-of-towners: now is a really great time to visit Seattle. I am sure I can work showing you around into my busy social calendar. ;)

This is what Hard Core looks like: Mount Saint Helens 2009

2009-06-23T17:47:00.005-05:00

Jorge's harem makes it to the top

2009-06-23T17:45:00.001-05:00

Jorge and us six girls = 1, Mount Saint Helens = 0

Snow + Plastic Bag Worn as a Diaper + Decline = Most Fun Ever

2009-06-23T17:42:00.002-05:00

Katie led the way teaching us how to glacade without poking our eyes out with our ice axes. yay!

The best part of the hike...

2009-06-23T17:28:00.002-05:00

drinking Cooks in the parking lot.

Oliver = Dream Boy

2009-06-23T17:27:00.004-05:00

Beautiful Monterey

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With a hint of frump.

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Brooks gives me one thumbs up for my amazing photography skills and one thumbs up to Monterey for being awesome.

2009-06-23T17:18:00.001-05:00

Business on top, pirate socks and vintage blue Nikes on bottom. Brooks called this picture, "Fashionista Paige" Couldn't have said it better myself.

Seattle, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

2009-05-18T00:32:00.000-05:00

The combination of business trips, sun, and an ever snuggly Oliver Beckley is making Seattle the place to be. The photos below tell all.

Pitstop in AZ

2009-05-18T00:30:00.002-05:00

As my Bunkie so astutely pointed out, “When most people think of flying from Seattle to Denver, Arizona isn’t on the way.” Well when I’ve got my middle school bff Colleen in Flagstaff and my grandparents in Phoenix, it’s pretty obvious that finagling a strange stopover in AZ is in order.

This is the photo of the night when Colleen and I hit every bar in Flagstaff. Ok, maybe not every bar. But, the important ones like this place which featured shelves and shelves of books covered by flat screen TVs. Stay classy Flagstaff.

One of these things is not like the other

2009-05-18T00:29:00.000-05:00

Coordinating medical equipment donations between US donation organizations and a Mexican rural healthcare program is pretty glamorous. Here I am in the Project CURE warehouse in Denver with customs agents Alejandro, Manuel, and Gilberto. Yay team work!

4D Bloging

2009-05-18T00:27:00.000-05:00

My trip to Atlanta, much like this photo, was a bit of a blur. I blame it on the 64 different flavored Coca-Cola soft drinks we sampled at Coca-Cola World. Here Nina, Alex, baby Nati, and I are pictured before heading into a 4D propaganda piece… I mean video about Coca-Cola products.

Golden Gardens

2009-05-18T00:25:00.002-05:00

Seattle is a divided city. On nice days some will go to Golden Gardens and others will go to Greenlake. I dabble in both. Pictured are my Core Groupers in good form and the scene from a quality bike ride / cooking soup on the beach date.

Carhart Cutie

2009-05-17T17:36:00.005-05:00

Baby Wrestling at it's Finest

Numerology: Being a Grown-up Part IV

2009-04-06T16:47:00.000-05:00

After many years, I have finally discovered the perfect way to travel – in 3s, specifically just a married couple and me. I have the Mathewson dream team to thank for this realization. As noted from previous blogs, Laurel and Colin are the coolest married couple alive. Therefore it’s possible this theory could break down with another couple. But for now, it stands.

I had the pleasure of spending my Springbreak in San Diego. This visit had many of same elements as my last trip: a dinner date with my favorite yogi, Michelle, and her husband, Ben; out of this world yummy food, sun, beach, girl talk and dancing. This trip was also longer which brings me to my second realization – it’s important to stay at any person’s house for at least six days. Let me reiterate, this is the minimum. With our extra couple days we went on a desert camping adventure. Please enjoy the photos.

Laurel and I make the shadow of a 3 to show the ideal travel number

2009-04-06T16:46:00.001-05:00

A three person tent is made to be filled up

2009-04-06T16:45:00.001-05:00

Desert Flower Photo Shoot

2009-04-06T16:43:00.001-05:00

Colin said something about the name of this canyon being ironic. I don’t get it.

2009-04-06T16:42:00.003-05:00

April Fools'

2009-04-06T16:42:00.001-05:00

So, that last post was supposed to be a bit of a joke (at least the numbers part). The adventures and good times are for real. Below are a couple photos of my dad’s 60th party. Everything about the below photos is serious business.

Bunch ‘o Beckleys

2009-04-06T16:41:00.001-05:00

Note to self: At black tie dinners most ladies will wear black.

Learning from the Lord of the Dance: my grandpa

2009-04-06T16:39:00.000-05:00

Tech baby

2009-03-17T17:06:00.001-06:00

"Auntie, I'm kind of busy checking my stock portfolio on your iphone. No time for photos." Oliver Beckley