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Packing Seminars
couple packing suitcase

Our informative packing seminars are free of charge. Learn how to keep your suitcase as  highly organized as a filing cabinet!

 

Click here for details.

 

   


 

Locations 

 

 

South

#472 WillowPark Village
10816 Macleod Trail South
Calgary, AB     T2J 5N8
(403) 777-1767


North 

 

#165 Dalhousie Station 

5005 Dalhousie Drive N.W.

Calgary, AB     T3A 5R8

(403) 239-7084



I Didn't
Know That!


Sometimes we forget that even famous people have Mothers.

Well, here are a few comments some of those celebrities had to make about their dear Mothers, and Motherhood in general.
 
 
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
           
- Roseanne Barr
 
"I know how to do anything - I'm a mom!"
 


   
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Dame Edna Everage

"My mother used to say that there are no strangers, only friends you haven't met yet.

She's now in a maximum security twilight home in Australia."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Tim Allen

"My mom said the only reason men are alive is for lawn care and vehicle maintenance."
 


  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
- Erma Bombeck

"When your mother asks, 'Do you want a piece of advice?' it is a mere formality.

It doesn't matter if you answer yes or no.

You're going to get it anyway."

 
     
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 
 
- Oscar Wilde

"As long as a woman can look ten years younger than her own daughter, she is perfectly satisfied."

Oscar Wilde also had this to say:

"All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his."




~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Phyllis Diller

"I want my children to have all the things I couldn't afford.

Then I want to move in with them."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


- Jack Nicholson
   
"My mother never saw the irony in calling me a Son-of-a-B!#$%."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

- Milton Berle

"If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?"
 
      
  
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Steven Wright

"I can remember the first time I had to go to sleep. Mom said, 'Steven, time to go to sleep.'

I said, 'But I don't know how.'

She said, 'It's real easy. Just go down to the end of tired and hang a left.'

So I went down to the end of tired, and just out of curiosity I hung a right.

My mother was there, and she said 'I thought I told you to go to sleep.'"


  

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Paula Poundstone


"My mom told me how she learned to swim.

Someone took her out in the lake and threw her off the boat.

That's how she learned how to swim.

I said, 'Mom, I don't think they were trying to teach you how to swim!'"

 
 
 
   
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Buddy Hackett

"My mother's menu consisted of two choices:

Take it or leave it."

 
   
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Groucho Marx

"My mother loved children-she would have given anything if I had been one."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Rodney Dangerfield

"My mother had morning sickness after I was born."

Rodney added this about his Mother.

"When I was a kid I got no respect! 

It was so bad my Mother had to tie a pork chop around my neck to get our dog to play with me!"



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
   
 
- Chinese Proverbs

"There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it."



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~     

Travel Tips   


So, I thought I would stay with the them of Mother's Day and share some tips for travelling with children.

Here we go.


~~~~~~ 
 

The greatest thing you can take - whether at the airport, sightseeing or getting from A to B - is extra time.



Toddlers love to explore and don't care for the time pressures of travel, so you're more likely to all retain your cool if you factor the gawking, stalling, toilet stops and tantrums into your time frame.
 

~~~~~~

Giving toddlers their own child-friendly camera encourages them to observe their surroundings and focus on what interests them.



You might be surprised at the results from their knee-high view.
 

~~~~~~ 

Getting your children started on a few holiday-related projects before you leave is a great way to prepare them for what's to come.



You could explore maps, or the history, geography, animal and plant life of your destination, or read books or watch a film that's set there.



If the food is likely to be radically different, research dishes that they might enjoy, and try rustling up something similar before you go.


~~~~~~

If anyone has serious allergies, you might want them to travel with a card that specifies, in the language of your destination, what they're allergic to and how serious the condition is. 

 
 
~~~~~~ 
    
In each new place, don't forget to designate a meeting point in case anyone gets separated from the group.



If it's likely you'll be in really dense crowds, promising a reward for staying together works as a good incentive.
 

~~~~~~
 
 
Depending on the age of the kids, have each child bring a small backpack filled with their toys and goodies for the flight.

 
 
~~~~~~

While waiting for the flight, let the kids walk around, let the baby crawl, use this time for exercise.



This is not the time to sit still, the whole flight they will need to, so now is the time to use that energy.

~~~~~~

If your children still crawl around on the floor, one way of keeping them reasonably clean is to take a plastic sheet that you can put down anywhere for them to play on.



~~~~~~

Get your kids drawing and listing things they've seen and interesting foods they've tried.



Who knows, this might also encourage them to try different foods.

~~~~~~

Collecting postcards from places you visit and having your children write themselves a message on the back means they can reach adulthood with a library of memories all their own.

 
    
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
   
Watch Out
For These Scams
 
Fake Inspectors

Germany   
 
How it works: 

Germany public transportation is well-known for its travel scams. 

 

One of the worst is that fake inspectors will approach you and ask to see your ticket. 

They will tell you that you owe a fine and that you must pay it on the spot.


What you can do:

The real inspectors will always print out a ticket for you to pay later. 



Don't be fooled by an inspector just because they show a badge. 

There are many fake badges out there and it's pretty easy to create fraudulent ones. 



Also, never buy a ticket from someone trying to sell a ticket that's already been validated. 

You can get in a lot of trouble for this, and many times, the ticket is useless anyway.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Unnecessary Entrance Fee

From Belize into Mexico


How it works:

The Belize/Mexico border is well-known for  scamming money out of unsuspecting tourists. 



There is usually an entrance fee to Mexico of around $20, but you don't have to pay this if you are re-entering Mexico from Belize.



However, many people at the Belize/Mexico border are told they must pay this fee, and not knowing any better, they go ahead and pay. 
      
 
What you can do:

The best way to avoid this scam is not to stop at the immigration booth at all. 

If you have kept your FMM card, and it hasn't expired, you should have no problem with this because you are entering Mexico with a valid FMM card. 



If you are walking, just walk past like you know what you are doing.  (Well, now you do.) 

If you are riding in a taxi, then just get your driver to drop you off somewhere past the booth. 



If you are on a bus, the bus will stop at this booth, so you will have no choice.

But, you don't have to get off of the bus.

Just duck down and don't even bother dealing with immigration. 



It may seem bizarre, but even the Mexican consul says that this is the right thing to do. 
 
 

By the way:  When you are exiting Mexico, the officials often try to extort an exit fee of $20 as well, but you don't have to pay this if you arrived by air as this was included in your air ticket. 



You also don't need to pay this if you arrived by land and already paid the fee.

The border officials are actually not supposed to collect this fee at all. 



If you haven't paid, the officials are supposed to send you to a bank that can accept the fee.  

Just remember, when crossing the Belize/Mexico border, there is NO tourist tax for leaving Mexico.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 


The Pipestone Patter
May 2017
Welcome Back Loyal Readers!


Welcome back everyone.  It's that time again!

Currently it's a beautiful day outside, with the promise of even more to come.

Yes!

Spring is actually in the air, and if we concentrate really, really hard we can feel those hot summer days lingering in the background, just waiting for their turn to make an appearance.



And I don't know about you, but I am more than happy to fling the door wide open and allowance summer to enter - any old time it wants to!

Of course, I will be able to survive the inevitable gloomy days ahead, because in my ever optimistic heart, I believe they will be few and far between.

Here's hoping!

And speaking of summertime, we have some big news!

Some of you may already know this - but for those of you who are unaware - our WillowPark store is moving!

That's right everyone.

We are packing up and moving   . . .   a whole two doors down!

If you come into WillowPark Village, you may see this:





Now, some of you might think that means our original store is closed until the new store is ready - but Nope!

Our original store is still open, and will continue to be until it's time for the Grand Opening of our new space.

I mean!  Of course we wouldn't leave you in the lurch by taking away your chance to visit us for two whole months!

So don't worry, you can still come see us anytime.

We are anticipating a July 1 opening, but don't worry, we will definitely keep you all informed.

So come see us at our original store - and maybe, just maybe, take a peek in the windows of our new store while you're there.

With twice as much room as before, you are going to love the new space - and all the fabulous stuff we will be putting inside it! 


Spotlight On ...  

It's May.

What else would we spotlight but  . . .

Mother's Day!

Now, I'm a Mother - so I accept that I might be just slightly biased here, but I gotta say, Mother's Day is one of my favourite holidays!

Is it because the day was made especially for all us Moms, Stepmoms, Foster Moms, Grandmas, Aunties, Daughters, Daughters-In-Law, and any other woman that is special in our lives?

Maybe.

Is it because it's a socially acceptable day for us normally reticent and self effacing women to allow someone to celebrate us and make a fuss over us?

Probably.

Is it because, hopefully, we'll get a present?

Definitely!

Okay, okay.  Of course it's not all about the presents!  Of course it isn't!  It's all about our families, and how much they love and appreciate us.  It's all about getting to feel special for a day.  It's all about not feeling guilty for taking one day out of the year to sit back and relax and not work all day.  It's all about acknowledging all the incredible women in our lives, and letting them know how much we love them and how much they mean to us.

That's what it's all about.

But, a present is nice too!






 
~~~~~~~~~

Mother's Day Promotions

 
Okay everyone - if you have been wracking your brain trying to figure out the perfect gift for Mom - you are in luck!

After all, we all want to show once and for all, that we are Mom's favourite, right?

Well then, here are some great promotions you will very likely be interested in.
     
 
   
~~~~~~~~~   


 
 


Purses, Purses and More Purses 
   
We got a great deal on some funky and fashionable purses that are perfect for a Mother's Day gift!

There are many style and colours to choose from, so there is something for everyone.

The regular price of these purses range from $24.95 to $53.95.

But because we like you - and we really like your Moms (and we really, really want you to be considered the favourite child!) we are going to make you an offer you can't refuse.

Each and every one of these purses is now available for only



That's right - just $20.00!

Now, where are you going to find a better deal than that for Mom?

Of course, we expect these purses to fly out the door, so be sure to get into the stores right quick to check them out!
 
And guess what?  No password or secret phrase needed.

Just bring yourself and your $20.00 into the store - and walk out with the purse of your choice.

Now, not every purse in the store is available for this low price.

Sorry about that!

This offer is for selected purses only, but we will make it very clear which ones you have to choose from.

The sale starts Monday,
May 1 and will continue until May 31, or until all these fabulous purses are sold.


Of course, All Sales are Final

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you.

We even have some Vegan Leather purses!  You really need to come in and check them out!  
   
 









  















 
  
~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~





      
Pretty Woman
 

Oh yes! 

It's that time again!

If you are looking for something special for your Mother, pay close  attention.

Heck, if you're looking or something special for yourself, pay attention!

Ladies and Gentlemen

- back for a limited time


The Pretty Woman

Buy 1 - Get 1 at 1/2 Off
Sale! 

 
This is, hands down, our most popular promotion, every time we offer it.

For those of you familiar with the Pretty Woman line, you know what a marvelous addition to your wardrobe these pieces are.

They are fashionable, light-weight, wrinkle-free, and they look good on everyone!

And, they are so great for travel.

If you aren't yet familiar with Pretty Woman, you owe it to yourself to come into the stores and check it out.  You won't be sorry you did.

Especially when you can buy one piece at the full price, and then get a second piece of equal or lesser value for 50% off!


 
People wait all year for this sale, so I promise you, if you want the best selection in styles, sizes and colours - you need to act quickly!

Regular prices range from
$61.95 - $169.95


Sizes range from Small to 2XL



The sale starts on May 1 and runs until May 31.

All Sales are Final.


Seriously?  This is Retail Therapy at it's best!

Happy shopping everyone!   
 

 



P.S.:  We have plenty of styles and colours, but please note that not all patterns shown are available.  

Tales from the Road

 
Happy Mother's Day, Everyone!  
    
    
As we all know by now, Mother's Day is right around the corner.

So, as I was mentally preparing to write this piece, I was thinking about Mothers.
 

(To be clear, "mentally preparing" means I spend a fair amount of time cogitating, contemplating, brainstorming and pondering.  I mention this, not because I think you care, but simply so that when my Wonderful Husband reads it, he will realize that when he thinks I am sitting in my chair daydreaming, I am, in fact, working.  Working hard!)

While ruminating, my mind tends to wander.

Actually, to be more accurate - it tends to bounce around.

It's a bit like a pinball machine.  I get one thought, and then that bounces me to another thought, and then another; and more often than not, I end up so far away from my original thought that I would be hard pressed to tell you how I got there.

Of course, I'm a Mother, so that means I can multi-task.  That means I can have lots of thoughts in my head at the same time, and be able to keep track of all of them.  Maybe I can't tell you how I got from one thought to another, or why I went from one thought to the other, but I can darn sure tell you what those thoughts are!

So my deliberating started with the concept of Mothers.



And then I remembered an event that occurred years and years ago.

At the time, my Son was playing hockey, and a bunch of us Moms were sitting around talking.

As was often the case, the conversation turned towards how hard it was to be a Mother in this day and age (well, that day and age - like I said, it was years and years ago). 

As we talked, we convinced ourselves that we were, actually, quite hard done by.  We had to take care of our children, chauffeur them to all their activities, manage the house, do laundry, cook, clean, buy groceries - the list was endless.  AND, most of us had full time jobs on top of everything else!

As we were discussing our hard lives (okay, maybe "complaining" would be a more accurate word choice) one of the women in the group just sat there listening.

She was the Grandmother of one of the hockey kids, and she always came to every practice and every game.

Finally, she had enough.

"You girls have no idea how easy you have it" she informed us.

   
 
     
Handy Gadget 


David Cline
 
I guess these beautiful David Cline shirts aren't really considered "gadgets" - but they are such an incredibly useful travel  accessory, they might as well be. 

We know how much people are loving this new line we're carrying, so we just wanted to let you know that we got another shipment in the stores - just in time for Mother's Day!

You're welcome!

If you aren't familiar with David Cline yet, you are in for a treat.

This brand specializes in, and takes great pride
in, making fun, beautiful, and inspiring contemporary and cre at ive looks that are made with the softest, highest quality fabrics that make their shirts so unique!  
 
The exclusive micro-poly fabric with a spun rayon blend was developed by David Cline to give it the luster, feel, softness, washability and comfort that is unique to it.

It is also crushed to make it durable, easy to travel with, and long lasting.  

You need to come see these shirts!

















Sizes:   Small to 2XL


Colours:   Various


$139.95 - $164.95

  
~~~~~~~~~


Eagle Creek Cinch Organizer


The Cinch Organizer is ultra-light and easy to clean, and with six internal pockets it will make certain that all of your toiletries, undergarments, and other hygiene products are kept secure throughout all of your travels.

  • Easy to organize jewelry, toiletries, underwear, and bras
  • Draw-string cinch closure with pull tabs allows for an easy open
  • Padded bottom provides structure for upright packing access
  • Walls feature 6 elasticized slip pockets to fit all of your gear
  • TPU-lined material for easy clean and moisture protection
  • Zipper-free entry means no snags to your delicate personal items
  • Ultra-light silnylon ripstop protects from wear and tear
  • Water repellent material
  • Hand washable, hang dry
  • 8" x 6.25" x 5"  -  1.3 oz.
  • Comes with a Lifetime Warranty


Colour:   Ebony 

$34.95  


~~~~~~~~~


Eagle Creek Wristlet Set

Maximize suitcase space with organizers that make use of every cubic inch.

Pack jewelry, small electronics, makeup and more in these easy-clean storage bags.

The Wristlet Set is perfect for small items like toiletries to medium-sized belongings such as hair brushes.

Once you use the Wristlet Set, it will become an essential part of your travel accessories!

  • Great for packing makeup and other toiletries
  • Slight padded structure protects contents against the rigors of travel while keeping set lightweight
  • Designed to self-stand when empty for easy-to-pack accessibility
  • TPU-lined material is easy to wipe clean and stands up against moisture
  • Wristlet strap makes carrying the bag comfortable and simple
  • Ultra-light silnylon ripstop material for added durability
  • Water repellent material is great for carrying damp clothing or toiletries
  • Quick grab handle makes this bag ready to-go in a moment's notice
  • Hand washable, hang dry
  • Includes one large wristlet (9" x 2.5" x 6"  -  1.4 oz.) and one small wristlet       (9" x 2.5" x 4"  -  0.4 oz.)
  • Comes with a Lifetime Warranty!

Colour:   Ebony


$38.95

 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  
    
 
Gift Certificates

You know, sometimes the best gift you can give Mom is the gift of choice!

Why not give her a Gift Certificate from a store she already knows and loves? 

Or, from a store you are eager to introduce her to, because you know she will love it!



Luckily, Pipestone Travel Store has you covered on both these counts.

What Mother wouldn't love a Gift Certificate so she can spend as much time as she wants browsing and choosing and trying on?

Especially with our friendly staff members there to help her out?

And  . . .  if you come shopping with your Mom, that would make it even more special!

And, let's not forget - we always have Werther's candies!   
 
   

Quote 
  

   

Well, we made it all the way to the end again.  Thanks for staying with me.

As always, you can send us stories or feedback by sending an e-mail to pipestonetravelstore.com

See you next month!

 

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