Wow!  This whole week was been absolutely crazy.  Yesterday was Christmas and I wasn’t sure how I’d feel or react to anything because of all the craziness.

I confess, I haven’t been working out or running like I should.  In fact, I haven’t really done anything since mid-October.  I usually go to the lake and run, but it’s kinda too cold for that now.  So I finally got off my ass this week and got myself a membership to Snap Fitness (24hr. access).  I’ve really missed going to the gym and having some time alone with my HRM, my earbuds and my iPod.  Merry Christmas to me. ツ

My daughter, Lauren, informed me this week, that she is moving in with her boyfriend of eight months and living with him and his father who, by the way, is an alcoholic.  She’ll be 19 years old in a couple of weeks and there’s nothing I can do about it except pray she doesn’t get herself hurt or land in jail.  While this was a major shock to all of my senses, I managed to keep my cool for about two hours before I started yelling at her about questioning her on her decision to totally screw up her life for some kid who’s been in and out of jail, violated his probation, and who’s father kicks him out of the house every time he’s drunk so he’s left having to roam the streets in the worst part of town.  But whatever.  All I can do is wait for her to come crashing down so I can pick her back up again learn another one of life’s lessons:  A couple can’t live on love alone or  You can’t demand respect from someone if you don’t respect yourself or Don’t move in with someone just because he thinks you’re cheating on him when you’re not.  Talk about wanting to beat the shit out of some people feeling helpless.  I have to drop her off at the bus stop on January 8th, her birthday.  Maybe that will give me enough time to smack some sense into my only daughter convince her to stay.

I won something!  I mean I actually won a trip… to Montana?!  Yep, that’s right, Livingston, Montana, to be exact.  I won it from Girls Getaway Guide.  The prize is a 4-night getaway to the Flatpenny Inn in Livingston, Montana.  After reading about Casey’s experience on the same trip, I am extremely excited about this trip!!  And this all fits in with my list of things to for my 40th year celebration.  This also means I got that gym membership just in time.  This trip is more motivation for me to get in shape.

Christmas day was filled with mixed emotions.  Kim, my husband,  is really upset that my daughter is leaving and it shows.  She’s broken into tears a couple of times because of the change in his attitude toward her.  He doesn’t realize the impact he has on her and there’s a lot of tension in the air between the three of us.

Jacob, my youngest, was thrilled with all of the gifts he received this year.  Santa left him a book with a note about Santa knowing about his dream to become a heart doctor someday.  He thought it was great that Santa even knew about that.  Everyone was happy with what they got.  I actually got two of the gifts on my wish-list this year and that was awesome!  I just wish everyone was happy with each other.

Did I mention we got a new car?  We did.  It’s a silver Subaru Legacy.  My husband doesn’t care for it much, but I like it.  It fits me really well and I look damn good in it.  So that’s good, since I do most of the driving anyway.

One more major thing that happened this week – one of my best friends was proposed to yesterday!  When Kim first texted me, I actually cried at the thought her and her boyfriend getting engaged.  I remember her telling me all about him that first day they met.  I am so very happy for her.  Kim, I love you, but if I’m not asked to be part of this wedding, I will hurt you. Oh shit…another reason for me to get back into shape, but this means a trip to Vegas for me.  Yayee!!

Yeah.  It was a crazy week, but other than the big “Screw you, Momma” I got from my daughter, my week was pretty damn good.  How was your week?

By Stephanie Gareri

If you are looking for a romantic winter experience, a fun day with the girls or an escape from the kids…Le Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain is the place for you.

Nestled in the trees, the spa offers a Scandinavian bath experience in the heart of nature. Relaxing during the day and spectacular in the evening during the winter. Simply enjoy the baths ($45), indulge in a Swedish massage ($117-$169) or relax with Hot stone therapy ($179).

Open from 10 AM to 9 PM daily.

For reservations call 1.877.988.8484 or visit Le Scandinave

Are you and your special someone planning a romantic getaway? Are you finally able to take that second honeymoon or the trip you’ve always wanted? If you want to make the most of your romantic getaway, make sure you follow our pre-trip checklist for 10 excellent tips to a happy, romantic getaway.

To make the most of your romantic getaway and so that you do not have to stress and worry over things while you are there, you should follow this pre-trip checklist to make sure you have a happy romantic getaway.

1. Research your destination. Make sure you know about where you are going and why you have chosen this destination. Have a good idea in mind of all the romantic things you can see and do there before you get there.

2. Form an itinerary. Even if it just includes sitting around the spa or soaking up the sun on the beach, you want to have somewhat of a plan for what you will do on the vacation and when.

3. Book your flights ahead of time. If you are booking yourself, don’t forget inter-island such as on Fiji and Tahiti. You don’t want to be inconvenienced on the trip by forgetting (or not knowing) about a relay flight somewhere or having to pay more because you didn’t know to book it ahead of time.

4. Pack proper clothing. You need to make sure you have proper attire to be comfortable while on your trip. Depending on what you are doing while you are there, you may need different types of clothing. Make sure if you are surprising your lover with the trip plans and destination, you still give them opportunity to have proper attire.

5. Passports! If you are traveling out of the country, be sure to get your passports well ahead of time so you do not have to worry about it in the last minute. This is also when you should find out if you need immunizations before you leave. Some have to be taken as a series over the course of several days or weeks so be sure you allow enough time.

6. Plan a sexy evening together. This could be a good idea for your first night there when you might not feel like doing anything else. Plan to stay in the room with a bottle of wine or champagne and enjoy each other. You can get room service or have something delivered.

7. Plan for a romantic meal. If you really want to have a happy, romantic getaway, you should plan your meals ahead of time or at least a couple of them. Take time to investigate the area and find out about romantic restaurants or dinner spots where you can take your lover.

8. Valuables! You may decide not to bring any valuables along or to be sure ahead of time that you have a proper place to secure your valuables so you don’t ruin your romantic vacation with worries over lost or stolen items.

9. Plan to play. Don’t forget to pack any special fun items to bring along such as new lingerie, a sexy CD or other toys or items you can enjoy on this special getaway with your lover.

10. Remember to have fun! The most important tip we can give is that this romantic getaway is supposed to be an opportunity for the two of you to spend some quality time together and show that you appreciate one another. Remember to have fun and enjoy your time together.

Are you planning a fun and exciting romantic getaway with the love of your life? If you have been putting off a much-needed getaway together because you simply can’t afford it, then we have some great tips and ideas for you on how you can take a romantic getaway on a shoestring budget.

When you have been in a relationship for a while, it is easy to lose the romance and forget that quality time alone together is really important. People also worry that they don’t have the money to take a romantic getaway or that they can’t afford to take the time off from work. Below are some inexpensive ideas for those of you that need a romantic getaway but don’t have a lot of money to spend right now.

Picnic – Pack a picnic lunch and head out to the park, beach, woods or some other nature spot for a romantic dinner together. You can find a secluded spot under a tree, near a lake or waterfall or some other great place to just sit back and spend some time together and it won’t cost you anything at all. Take a break from your work day and steal away for a romantic lunch together.

Lake – The lake can be a very romantic spot that is typically very inexpensive and will work with your budget. You can look up lakes and recreational areas in your area to find out how you can gain access to them. You might plan a trip for fishing, camping, boat riding or just sitting by the lakeside with the one you love.

Log Cabin – A log cabin getaway is another affordable getaway option for couples on a shoestring budget. You can typically find a package deal or a seasonal special to lower your rental costs even more.

Beach – The beach has always been famous for its romantic appeal and the best part is that most are free (or very close to free). Pack your sun block and bikini and head out for some fun in the sun with the one you love.

Weekend for Two – If you are looking for a great idea while on a budget, take a quick weekend for two away from everything. Escape from the busy grind of daily life and enjoy some time just the two of you. You can book a night at a hotel, enjoy dinner and a movie at home or anything else you decide as long as you are doing it together and leave all your worries at home for the weekend.

Fantasy Getaway at Home – If you don’t have the time or the money to take your fantasy getaway, why not try creating it at home? It can be fun and exciting to design your own fantasy getaway at your home with the love of your life. You can decorate your house/bedroom and even get clothing and attire to suit the location. The fantasy can be very sexy and a lot of fun.

Can’t decide where to go for your romantic getaway? Why not take some inspiration from the rich and famous? Even if you don’t follow the celebrities’ lives regularly, you probably still remember hearing about their luxurious vacations. You’ve likely seen them on TV and in magazines that profile these upscale vacations and getaways.

So where do the rich and famous go on their honeymoons or when they need a romantic getaway from everything?

Celebrities are just like us (except probably with a bit more money) and they love to take romantic getaways as well. Since celebrities are so often in the spotlight, they might choose more remote locations for their vacations, especially when they want to be alone with the love of their life. So you might also find some of the celebrities’ romantic getaway locations exciting, sexy and seductive. Check out these hot spots for a celebrity romantic getaway!

Learn from star-studded honeymoons

Take your romantic vacation cues and tips from the celebrities. Look at some examples of where these celebrities took their honeymoons (the most important romantic getaway of a relationship.) Barbra Streisand & James Brolin took their honeymoon in Barbados. Soon-Yi Previn & Woody Allen honeymooned in Paris and The Bachelorette’s Trista & Ryan honeymooned in California and Fiji.

There are celebrity visits to Vegas and its casinos, cruises, islands and beaches, foreign countries and many other exotic and unique locations. You can make your romantic getaway one you will both remember for the rest of your lives.

Pop the question

Are you thinking of popping the question on your romantic getaway? Many celebrities have also chosen romantic destinations such as Fiji, the Caribbean, Hawaii and more to ask their significant others to marry them. You can follow their lead and choose a romantic, sexy location for popping your question.

Think not only about where you will go but how you will choose to ask the question. Go ahead and take your inspiration from celebrity examples if you are unsure yourself.

Take a cruise

Romantic getaways of the rich and famous very often involve a cruise. There are adults-only cruises and select VIP cruises that can be very special and romantic. You should avoid family cruises and package deals from cruise lines such as Carnival because they will not have the type of romantic environment you are seeking for a sexy getaway with your lover. There will likely be a lot of families, children, etc.

Romantic getaways of the rich and famous are something we can all dream about but many of us feel we will never achieve that dream for ourselves. If you can’t afford the same location of your favorite celebrity, there are some less expensive alternatives for you and your special someone.

You might also choose to travel to the same location but find more affordable accommodations than the rich and famous likely stayed at. You can still enjoy the beautiful location but without the expense that you can’t afford.

If you are looking to have a truly special romantic getaway, you will want to know about these best secluded romantic getaway locations. There are great secluded places located all over the world but many of the highly popular ones may not be quite so secluded anymore now that lots of people know about them, unless you reserve a room, cabin, portion of the beach or some other spot that is guaranteed to be secluded for the time you are there.

If you are looking for a great secluded romantic getaway, you need to do some research into what you are looking for. You don’t have to travel far from home to have a secluded getaway. Chances are, there are many secluded romantic getaway spots right near where you live, you just need to be able to find them and to do that, you need to know what you are looking for.

It might take some research and a bit of digging but you can find secluded spots where you live. For example, is there a lake or pond or even a waterfall somewhere near your home? Water spots have long been known for being romantic spots to take your date or to have a picnic. Timing is also important. You want to choose a time when it is less likely for anyone else to be there so that you can be alone with your lover.

You might even look into creating your own secluded getaway at your home. Set it up s that no one else will be around and turn your home into a fantasy getaway that’s full of sultry romance for you and your partner. The ideas are endless when it comes to choosing a spot where you can be alone together. All it takes is a bit of creativity.

However, if you are looking for some places you travel to that are secluded and romantic, try these suggestions below:

Rent a cabin in the Rockies (or some other location): Book a stay in a secluded cabin for a weekend or even a week if you can spare it. Go with no TV and leave your cell phones turned off or in the car. Just enjoy the time spent alone together and cuddle up by the fireplace and enjoy each other.

Tropical Island Fantasy: Rent a private island (or spot on the beach) for a couple of nights and create your own private island fantasy. Live out what it would be like to be stranded on a deserted island together. Make it a fun and sexy adventure you will never forget.

There are many other great places for you to select for a romantic getaway. Couples cruises and adult spas and resorts are other good ideas. Avoid family cruises and spas and other places that are designed for families because there will be many more people there as well as children and it can be hard to find a “secluded” spot.

Ice and snow are likely to disrupt the Christmas getaway as forecasters warn motorists to take extra care while travelling…. From BBC News. Full story

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Courtesy of www.despair.com

Even a “star” has to sometimes wait for the proverbial tide to turn, for the right moment to gain notice . . . Life’s a beach . . . don’t let it get you down.  And, now that winter has officially arrived, isn’t this tropical beach locale just the right medicine?   I have not yet scheduled a winter getaway to some exotic (warm) clime, but perhaps now is the time to investigate just such an escape.

And to rebut the saying to the right, you certainly aren’t going anywhere if you don’t book the trip!  Don’t wait for the trip to come to you . . . carpe diem, just do it!  Then . . . bon voyage!

Are you ready for a romantic getaway in California? Because there are plenty of hotspots, you will never be lack of choices when planning a vacation in California. Here, we’ll look at a few places that you might want to try!

If You and Your Partner are Wine Lovers…

You will absolutely adore the wineries dotting the northern cities during your vacation in California. The wine country is filled with the beauty of vineyards and the rich, sweet taste of wines and similar adult beverages.

Best of all, you will be shock at how affordable the cost will be, so plan on taking home some of the “good stuff” to remind yourself of your romantic getaway in California!

If You and Your Partner are Fun-Lovers

Why not head to Disneyland for to renew your romance? It’s a small world after all… so no matter where you stay, you can get there in a hop, skip, and a jump.

Though Florida’s Disneyworld tends to take much of the spotlight away from Disneyland, do not forget the fact that Disneyland is the first amusement park and destination hotspot of its kind. And it absolutely caters to lovers, making it an ideal romantic getaway in California!

If You and Your Partner are Free Spirits…

There is nothing better than a drive up (or down) the coastline for a trip in the sunny state that you will surely remember for years to come. Enjoy the sea breezes and the towns that dot the coast as you cruise through this sunny state. Taste the variations of foods from the natural, healthy food inspired north to the Mexican-inspired south.

Just make sure you give yourselves a full week or two to enjoy your in the sunny State, as it should never be rushed.

If You and Your Partner are into Entertainment…

Hollywood is the place for you! There is so much to see there, and Tinseltown should be part of this vacation. Who knows? You might even spot a few celebrity or starlets, so bring along your camera. And head to Rodeo Drive for a shopping experience of a lifetime if you have just won the lottery!

If You and Your Partner are into Cultural Activities…

San Francisco has it all! The history, the arts, the sports… it is all there on this romantic getaway in California! And depending upon the time of year, you can actually broker some pretty decent rates at some of the downtown hotels. Or, if you prefer, you can always stay at a bed and breakfast near the city… but far enough away to feel a tad rustic.

There are absolutely endless possibilities for a romantic getaway in California, so plan yours now!

Snow and ice disrupt travel and delay the Christmas getaway for thousands…. From BBC News. Full story

This site may contain information about: las vegas travel. The blog is also related to: airport parking.

The severe weather and resulting travel problems leads most of the papers…. From BBC News. Full story

This site may contain information about: travel flights. The blog is also related to: travel map.

The best thing about scuba diving in Asia is the amazing tropical weather that allows for unperturbed scuba diving sprees all year ’round. But given the number of small countries and even smaller, almost negligible islands, think you might be missing out on some breathtaking diving spots? Well there’s the island of Guam, for instance, which happens to be a popular scuba diving destination.

Part of Micronesia, Guam is a beautiful volcanic island nestled at the southernmost portion of the Mariana Archipelago. It is often an overlooked scuba diving site and the few who are lucky enough to discover the beauty that lies within its depths are very lucky indeed. So what exactly makes Guam a perfect diving spot? Find below a rundown of its prime attractions and amenities.

Amazing Sea Life. Over hundreds of different coral species, whales, dolphins, and mantas are just a few of the marine creatures you will spot while cruising its tropical waters. Tumon Bay is dotted with amazing coral reef formations protecting its sanctuary that can be described as exquisitely-wow!

World War Wrecks. Imagine World War I wrecks being topped by World War II wrecks. Now how about observing splendid military equipment jeweling the coral reefs. Cool, huh? Despite the sad memories left behind by these wars in history, a probe of the beautiful wreck sites adorning the depths of Guam sea water is enough to make you wonder how something so horrible could produce something so beautiful.

Beautiful Weather 24/7. Warm waters all year ’round and almost non-existent wave swells-what scuba diver in his right mind wouldn’t dream of that? So if you happen to pass by Guam on pure happenstance, no need to worry about scheduling a scuba dive based on water temperature or weather conditions, because the whole year is pretty much a long and eternal diving season in Guam.

Availability of Scuba Equipment. Can’t afford to buy scuba equipment? Guam is teeming with dive shops that lease scuba equipment. In fact, dive shops are aplenty near popular diving sites so that you won’t have to think about anything else save for the great time that’s in store for you while scuba diving in Guam. Nonetheless, the well-geared up scuba diver who may be very particular with the use of pertinent scuba equipment can bring a pair of Scuba Max Hard Sole Shorty Boots to match the warm waters of Guam and the extremely lightweight H2Odyssey Onyx and Glacier Mask [http://www.scubasuppliers.com/site/1408308/product/MS-10] which is bound to provide amazing peripheral vision.

So if you feel like pursuing a scuba diving getaway and happen to be anywhere remotely near Guam, please do not miss out on the opportunity to discover this exquisite diving destination. You never know, you might never want to leave, what with the year ’round diving spree and beautiful scenery that abound.

The best thing about scuba diving in Asia is the amazing tropical weather that allows for unperturbed scuba diving sprees all year ’round. But given the number of small countries and even smaller, almost negligible islands, think you might be missing out on some breathtaking diving spots? Well there’s the island of Guam, for instance, which happens to be a popular scuba diving destination.

Part of Micronesia, Guam is a beautiful volcanic island nestled at the southernmost portion of the Mariana Archipelago. It is often an overlooked scuba diving site and the few who are lucky enough to discover the beauty that lies within its depths are very lucky indeed. So what exactly makes Guam a perfect diving spot? Find below a rundown of its prime attractions and amenities.

Amazing Sea Life. Over hundreds of different coral species, whales, dolphins, and mantas are just a few of the marine creatures you will spot while cruising its tropical waters. Tumon Bay is dotted with amazing coral reef formations protecting its sanctuary that can be described as exquisitely-wow!

World War Wrecks. Imagine World War I wrecks being topped by World War II wrecks. Now how about observing splendid military equipment jeweling the coral reefs. Cool, huh? Despite the sad memories left behind by these wars in history, a probe of the beautiful wreck sites adorning the depths of Guam sea water is enough to make you wonder how something so horrible could produce something so beautiful.

Beautiful Weather 24/7. Warm waters all year ’round and almost non-existent wave swells-what scuba diver in his right mind wouldn’t dream of that? So if you happen to pass by Guam on pure happenstance, no need to worry about scheduling a scuba dive based on water temperature or weather conditions, because the whole year is pretty much a long and eternal diving season in Guam.

Availability of Scuba Equipment. Can’t afford to buy scuba equipment? Guam is teeming with dive shops that lease scuba equipment. In fact, dive shops are aplenty near popular diving sites so that you won’t have to think about anything else save for the great time that’s in store for you while scuba diving in Guam. Nonetheless, the well-geared up scuba diver who may be very particular with the use of pertinent scuba equipment can bring a pair of Scuba Max Hard Sole Shorty Boots to match the warm waters of Guam and the extremely lightweight H2Odyssey Onyx and Glacier Mask [http://www.scubasuppliers.com/site/1408308/product/MS-10] which is bound to provide amazing peripheral vision.

So if you feel like pursuing a scuba diving getaway and happen to be anywhere remotely near Guam, please do not miss out on the opportunity to discover this exquisite diving destination. You never know, you might never want to leave, what with the year ’round diving spree and beautiful scenery that abound.

Get out of the city and come to beautiful Nelson County in Central Virginia for a romantic, laid back weekend at the Orchard House Bed & Breakfast.   Two of our local vineyards and wineries are having special Valentine’s Dinners for the ultimate gift to each other.  Treat your loved one to a five-course, wine-paired dinner in Saddleback Hall at Veritas. Music and dancing to follow! $80/pp inclusive of the meal with a splendid glass of Veritas wine with each course*, tax and gratuity.  Delfosse Vineyard will have their Winemaker’s Wine Dinner from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM with an amazing menu and wines from Delfosse.  $70 pp.  Both require advance reservations.  Call us to book a room and we’ll be happy to set it up for you.

Hiya sweets

Yours truly has just returned from a physically and mentally exhausting getaway.

Me and a significant went to a beautiful beach in Sukabumi, West Java for a few days. Basically we vegetated, swam and cooked dinner at one point (the main ingredients went missing on the way back to the hotel, but as they say, improvising-and stealing a few shallots, garlic and turmeric from the hotel’s fridge) is the key.

The beach was beautiful if you can take less notice of the garbage scattered in its shores. I think, though, that the particular side of the beach we swam in weren’t much taken care of because it wasn’t the part where people often go to. The part just a few meters away was cleaner because it was right in front of a touristy villa. But the waters, as I am told, is nicer on the part we swam in.

And the hotel, oh the hotel! it was wonderfully whimsical and weird.

The guy who built it was apparently inspired by cats in the hats. it had a crazy watchtower, mozaic-like walls in some parts, ridiculous architecture in general, gorgeous knick-knacks from all over the world such as Indian statues, vintage bar signs and colored bottles hanging all over the place, and it stands on top of a tall, tall hill. thus the ocean view was aawwweesooommee.

But it had a few downs though.

Maybe cos it wasn’t mad season so some parts of it are either currently renovated or in need of TLC. The jacuzzi wasn’t working and was dirty (and I discovered that when I already sat in its waters…*shudders*), some of the mattresses laid out on the decks and watchtowers definitely needed washing, and the toilet on the third floor wasn’t working (don’t ask how I knew), and most of the game stuff, such as the pool table and air hockey table, were broken.

Oh and the walk to and from the beach made me realize how I was regarding my fitness way too high. The nice view came with ridiculously steep walks, which got me huffing and puffing.It was a sad sight.

But it’s really worth to check out. The Jakarta Globe had a nice piece about it here, and here’s the website of the place.

We went by public transportation. Yes, car people, you CAN go on a holiday to Pelabuhan Ratu without your own wheels. Take the express train to Bogor, go to Baranangsiang bus station, take a bus to Pelabuhan Ratu bus station and take an ojek there. Tell them you want to go to Karang Aji Villa, near the Ocean Queen resort, in Cisolok. It should cost around Rp 200,000 for transportation to and from Jakarta.

Now since the trip also included a draining goodbye and lots and lots (we’re talking drama here) of streaming tears, I’ll leave you fellas to have your beach getaway. Right now, the sound of the waves will only turn me into a soppy, babbling, idiot. I hope things’ll work out though

For the first time I’m tailor making a pair of suits. Not in some exotic places but back in our tanahair – Penang! Result yet to be seen.

We are up north away from home. I have a conference to attend tomorrow till Wednesday and came up a day earlier to relax.

I miss the cats.