"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person"

This week is special to me! I not only did I meet my husband, it’s also his birthday, and our anniversary ~ each of which are so very special to me! I am amazed at how fast the years have gone by and I have thought much about what I wanted to write. I don’t share a lot of my personal life so here you go everyone ~ I hope you enjoy!

First I have to tell you, I am so very lucky to be married to a man who loves me exactly for who I am. My husband is my best friend, the love of my life, and I’m just lucky enough to be married to him. He pushes me, pulls me, stands by my side and often leads the way. Is he a true romantic with breakfast served in bed and flowers delivered to the door? Ummm, no he isn’t.

But, I have to tell you, I am married to a man who can spend a romantic night dipping our feet in the passing river with a bottle of vino shared between us. He can laugh when I grab him to dance when a great song comes on (or, also laugh because I am known to dance by myself too). My husband protects me, he takes care of me, he laughs at my jokes and my sad sense of humor. He will sleep on the couch when I don’t feel good because he doesn’t want his snoring to keep me awake. He covers me up when I am resting, calls me to see how my day is going, has my coffee ready when I get out of bed (most important), and picks up the slack when I am too busy with work. My husband tries to make my world the best place. I am lucky! Each day is a little bit of work for both of us. Nothing is taken for granted and nothing is forgotten. Life is fragile and so are people. We trust each other, we talk to one another, we laugh, we cry and yes, we do get angry, but most importantly, I love him just as much if not more.

His romantic ~ he loves me more than all the sand granules on the beaches in the world ~ that’s a whole lotta lovin’!!! He rubs my feet, takes me out to dinner when we’re too tired to cook, turns up the music and lets me relax in the pool, goes on vacations, brings me lunch while I’m working, gives me the world and so many more things that we all take for granted.

I am a city girl, he is a country boy. We are different and yet, we have found a common ground along with a life that we make our own rules. We are a little different and march to a different drum . . . Ours. Go figure I say. My husband has stood quietly and supported me and my decisions. He has helped me with his silence in making me aware of who and what I was and what I stand for. For that in itself, I love him!

Is this a sappy love story? No, I just want others to know that the beautiful fairy tale we all think will happen, really doesn’t always happen the way we think. We have our disagreements, our “I am so not talking to you” moments, and then . . . I laugh. I tell him it’s silly to fight because we’re stuck with each other so we might as well make the best of it. I tell him how we are blessed with one more day and I will not waste another moment . . . He hugs me and all is right with the world.

Life is hard. Marriage is difficult.

I often tell my husband how wonderful life is. He sometimes looks at me like I’m a little crazy - which may not be too far from the truth. Seriously though, to be in love, how wonderful is it to start each day and end each day with a spouse that is truly a part of your heart and soul?

My best wishes to all of you, but mostly, thank you to my husband for loving me, supporting me, and being there for me.  Most importantly though, for being the love of my life.

Happy birthday, Happy Anniversary, Happy Day We Met Anniversary ~ you are one of life’s importance’s that are precious and rare and I can only hope that each day you feel as much as you mean to me!

So, I will leave you with our vows and wish all of you the same.

“Happiness in marriage is not something that just happens. A good marriage must be created. In the art of marriage: the little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say “I love you”. It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship should not end, it should continue through all the years. It is having a mutual sense of values and common objects. It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle a love that gathers in the whole family. It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice, but in the spirit of job. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is not looking for perfection in each other. It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding and sense of humor. It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is finding room for the things of the spirit. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal, dependence is mutual, and the obligation is reciprocal. It is not only marrying the right partner, it’s being the right partner.”

Wishes,
Amy

Artwork courtesy of Curly Girl Design

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!

~ A little something to beat the heat and at least cool your thinking ~

As the temperatures soar, we long for the days of lounging poolside with endless possibilities of pampering. Take a dip into some of the worlds most extraordinary pools that gives a new meaning to ultimate luxury and puts the kiddie pool to shame . . . In fact I think I’m turning ours into the doggie pool after these magical marvels!

The swimming pool view at the Banyan Tree Hotel and Spa in Seychelles http://www.banyantree.com/en/seychelles/overview is nestled in Intendance Bay with spectacular views overlooking the Indian Ocean with a raised-level infinity structure complete with a narrow point jutting out above the beach. The pool looks like it's floating on the sea, with palms drooping over its sides and waves crashing on huge granite boulders below it. Banyan Tree Seychelles offers 60 villas with each having at least one private pool with an ocean view. They have recently complete Double Pool Villas which offer two pools each.

For the worlds most expensive swimming pool you need to visit the twenty acre pool that is long as three football fields, holds 66 million gallons of saltwater and it’s deep end is 115 feet deep in Chile at the San Alfonso Del Mar Resort http://www.sanalfonso.cl/ingles/main.html. This rates as the worlds most expensive swimming pool for it cost nearly $2 billion to build and requires almost $4 million in annual maintenance.

In Sydney, Australia, The Icebergs http://icebergs.com.au/ swimming pool is located in the famed Bondi Beach where the ocean’s waves will often break over the side of the pool. The pool is open to the public at small admittance fee.

The infinity pool at Ali Ubud http://www.alilahotels.com/Ubud/ in Bali boasts a spectacular location perched on a terrace floating above the lush Ayung River valley. The pool spreads out to form an elongated rectangle until it seems to disappear down the terraced jungle hillside. The Ali Ubud Resort blends a contemporary design and traditional Balinese architecture with secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens which create an intimate feeling like none other. “The resort's 56 rooms and villas are housed in 14 two-storey blocks designed to resemble a Balinese village. All rooms and villas have panoramic views of the magical Ayung River and surrounding volcanoes. The Deluxe Rooms on the ground floor feature individual garden terraces and a back courtyard with an open-air bathroom and shower. The Superior Rooms on the upper floor feature a private balcony and a daybed where you can chill out, read a book or just daydream while enjoying the unobstructed views. There are also eight villas. Four superb Valley Villas offer a spacious walk-around deck and are perched over the valley affording spectacular views of the Ayung River. The four luxuriously spacious Pool Villas offer a complete retreat experience with a private pool bordered by landscaped gardens, an open-air bathtub surrounded by a lotus pond, LCD TV and entertainment system, and the exclusive privilege of personalized leisure concierge services and in-villa dining and spa treatments.”

The Pimalai Resort and Spa http://www.pimalai.com/en/index.asp on Koh Lanta, Thailand boasts and amazing fresh-water infinity edge pool that sets about 50 meters above sea level allowing you spectacular views of the beach and the sea. This pool looks like a temple site with it’s beautiful architecture at this boutique luxury beach resort.

Another amazing sight to see pool in Thailand a few steps from the beach, is the pool at The Library http://www.thelibrary.co.th/index1.html in Koh Samui, Thailand. This vivid red pool is created by using mosaic Italian glass tiles in red, yellow and orange where at night, the underwater lights transform this pool into a dazzling sight perfect for dinner and drinks. The pool is set on the beachfront and is surrounded by a wooden deck with red mattresses and black bean bags.

The rooftop pool at The Standard http://www.standardhotels.com/los-angeles/ in downtown Los Angeles, CA is one of the most coveted nightlife hotspots. Situated on the rooftop of this 12-story hotel, the pool has panoramic views of the city. The turquoise heated pool stands out sharply against the red Astroturf sundeck with waterbed cabanas complete with a poolside bar.

For that perfect ah-ha moment, be sure to visit Six Senses Hideaway http://www.sixsenses.com/SixSensesZighyBay/ in Zighy Bay, Oman located 90 minutes from Dubai. The Six Senses Hideaway is located with dramatic mountains on one side and the sandy beach of Zighy Bay, on the other.

Hermitage Bay http://www.hermitagebay.com/ at this all-inclusive Antigua resort sits along a narrow dirt road and spleenful located between the pristine hillside and the turquoise Caribbean waters. With 25 individual cottages, you are in for a treat of tranquility and complete serenity.

The Joule Hotel http://www.thejouledallas.com in Dallas, TX projects their pool eight feet over the sidewalk from the edge of the 10th floor including a glass window at its end, providing swimmers with the sensation of swimming off the building's edge.

An exotic jungles surround you at Heritance Kandalama, Sri Lanka http://www.heritancehotels.com/kandalama/ where their infinity pool finds the green water blending into green rooftop lawns to virgin woodlands.

At the Marina Bay Sands http://www.marinabaysands.com/ in Singapore, you will ne staying at Asia's most spectacular business and leisure destination with over 2,500 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art convention and exhibition facilities, theaters, world-class casino, entertainment and the best shopping and dining in Singapore crowned by the Sands SkyPark. With amazing views of the Singapore skyline from the 57th floor, it is longer than the Eiffel tower laid on its side, it’s length is equivalent to four-and-a-half A380 Jumbo Jets, it has one of the largest gravity-defying edges in the world which holds up to 900 people. This Singapore hotel and casino offers a most unique swim!

For a sight to behold of an architectural marvel, visit Jade Mountain, St. Lucia http://www.jademountainstlucia.com/ where there infinity pools “are not accoutrements, but primary elements of the building's design. With sizes ranging from 400 to 900 square feet, the design of each pool is unique both in colour and shape. The infinity pools are meant to serve as organic components in each suite, as well as in the building as a whole; their sizes increase in relation to the different square footage of the different room categories: GALAXY, SUN, MOON and STAR.

All pools feature shallow water lounging areas in addition to a large swimming area. They have been surfaced entirely in one-of-a-kind glass tiles, which have been specifically designed for JADE MOUNTAIN.

Each of the infinity pools has its own individually designed glass tile color scheme which is then carried on into the individual bathrooms, giving each suite its own unique - and rather bold - personality. The glass tile texture is complex in reflective and prismatic ways with each piece of tile unique due to their custom hand crafted fabrication.

The infinity pools are equipped with fibre optics to illuminate them at night. Guests have the option of allowing the system to cycle through a range of colours or setting it to one particular shade.

Jade Mountain was conceived as a place in which guests would be exposed to a carefully orchestrated sensory experience. The infinity pools are integral to this. As a visual element, water flowing over a vanishing edge serves to draw the view into the room, linking the view with water, and water with sky and land, sun and stars.”

Poised on the cliff high above the Aegean, Perivolas Luxury Hotel http://www.perivolassuites.gr/about?lang=en in Santorini is a place where the rest of the world seems to disappear. With expansive views, ultimate luxury and absolute tranquil surroundings, your days by the pool are sure to leave you refreshed and never wanting to leave. Perivolas Hotel is only a short walk from Oia, the most beautiful village on Greece’s most romantic and dramatic island, Santorini.

The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagoyo http://www.fourseasons.com/costarica/ creates am ambience of luxury in a natural setting with a resort that spills down a coastal hillside to two unspoiled beaches of golden sand. With a spa, championship golf, the tropical dry forest complete with an amazing infinity pool, this resort will leave you wanting more.

Want to be at your own private island? Be sure to visit W Hotels on Fesdu Island http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1585 where this private island provides you with luxury, white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and breathtaking reefs.

Why not visit a pool for every mood at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cunjw-jw-marriott-cancun-resort-and-spa/? Indulge yourself at the adults only pool with a swim-up bar, lounge in either of the two free-form or infinity pools overlooking the Caribbean, For those who want more adventure, be sure to go diving in the 20-foot deep, PADI-certified diving pool.

For those that enjoy the adventures of diving, be sure to go to the deepest indoor swimming pool in the world at 105 feet at Nemo 33 http://www.nemo33.com/en in Belgium. Here the water is so warm in their solar heated pool that you don’t need a wetsuit and you are able to get a variety of scuba certifications.

One of the most popular attractions in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon http://www.bluelagoon.com/Geothermal-spa/ where you will have a unique geothermal spa experience. Renew and relax in this lagoon that holds six million liters of geothermal seawater (which is renewed every 40 hours) with a water temperature of 98-102°F all while soaking up the beautiful scenery and breathing the fresh, clean air.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso http://www.lasventanas.com/en/index.cfm where this desert beach resort in Los Cabos captivates its guests with expansive suites, a world-class spa, inspired cuisine and an intoxicating ambiance along with a several infinity pools that spill into one another throughout this sprawling, luxury resort overlooking the Sea of Cortez off Mexico's Baja coast. Unique in-room tequila welcome, 24-hour room service, live entertainment nightly, access to The Spa at Las Ventanas & fitness center, DVD library, twice-daily housekeeping with nightly turndown service, luxury tennis, fresh fruit replenished daily, bottled water, enhanced poolside service & amenities, personal butler service for each one-bedroom and three-bedroom luxury suite ~ it’s been said that butlers reportedly bring drinks, chilled towels and wireless TVs right to your chaise ~ now that‘s what I call service in paradise!

What a finish in Bora Bora Nui Hilton http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/PPTBNHI-Hilton-Bora-Bora-Nui-Resort-Spa/index.do suspended between turquoise waters and endless sky. Besides the endless amenities, you can enjoy even more water from your private water side balcony, canopy beds, Italian marble bathroom and better yet, watch Bora Bora’s exotic marine life float past the glass floor viewing panels in your guest room.

With the temperatures soaring this weekend, be sure to keep yourself cool with a little water therapy.           

Follow some important steps to make your day relaxing, restful and safe for another day of Summer fun in some sweltering heat.

Remember your sunscreen.  Even if you don't have full sun, there are plenty of harmful rays affecting you.

Protect your eyes with protective sunglasses or better yet, wear a hat that also covers your face.

Keep hydrated ~ and that means plenty of water to go along with those poolside cocktails.

Take a few breaks in the shade and enjoy some appetizers or a refreshing lunch of salad and fruit.

Don't forget your animals.  Make sure they have plenty of water and a cool place to relax.  Please remember that the temperature in a vehicle rises far faster and hotter than outside.  Don't leave your animals in your vehicle ~ or your children.  Not only can it be extremely hot, but too often it is dangerous and deadly.

Sometimes there really is a thing as "too much sun".  Come inside and relax in hopefully some air-conditioned area.  Rehydrate and relax.

I myself am a sun lover, but on days when the temperature and humidity soar, an old movie on the tv with some central air is just what this girl needs.

Be safe and enjoy you Sunday dive!

Photograpy from Inslee at http://inslee.net/

It’s been a busy week for Twig Travel with a wonderful highlight of traveling to Bloomfield Hills, MI for a Wedding Wire Conference. Between a lot of work and a little bit of playing, it was a wonderful time.

I was lucky enough to stay at the Radisson Hotel http://www.radisson.com/bloomfield-hills-hotel-mi-48304/mibloomf (http://www.clubcarlson.com) where it’s so wonder I didn’t just stay in bed and sleep through everything. Their sleep number beds, comfortable balcony rooms complete with bathroom toiletries, hairdryer, bottled water, coffee maker, complimentary newspapers, mini-refrigerator, room service, Super Nintendo (although I really didn’t get a chance to play Mario - darn), in-room internet, bathrobes, a beautiful courtyard amongst many other amenities, could be enough to entice anyone not to leave.

Upon checking-in their concierge was kind enough to offer his services; including to carry my one bag. Of course, I couldn’t stay in my room and had to venture out to their 24 hour work out room, a swimming pool complete with hot tub, and they also have spectacular restaurant venue. Their restaurants are courtesy of the locally renowned Matt Prentice Restaurant Group http://www.mattprenticerg.com/ with Deli Unique, a tavern and their restaurant, Northern Lakes Seafood Company http://www.mattprenticerg.com/northernlakesseafoodcompany.html where everything was absolutely delicious, but I have to say, the lobster bisque was out of this world!!! I most definitely need the recipe!!!

(Photographs courtesy of Carlson Club)

So, after all this investigation, it was off to the Iroquois Club http://www.theiroquoisclub.com for a wonderful conference with http://www.weddingwire.com and local Wedding Pros. Let me first say, walking into the Iroquois Club was like walking through a magical door. The ambiance was marvelous along with their wonderful hors devourers and servers.

(Photograph courtesy of The Iroquois Club)

From the greetings, the interior design, the tables set with candles, low lighting, background music and entertainment provided by http://www.startrax.com/, and even more cookies, cakes, and other treats provided by http://www.sweetheatheranne.com/. One couldn’t walk away without a smile on their face and The Metropolitan Gallery of Photography http://www.themetropolitangallery.com/ was sure to capture all the wonderful moments

(Photograhpy courtesy of The Metropolitan Gallery)

Twig Travel was able to connect with so many wonderful vendors in order to better serve our cliental and is looking forward in the continual search for the utmost service of vendors for our clients.

A favorite summertime activity was started long ago in 1859. The first to entice us, the Philadelphia Zoo.

Most states now have them and we continue to love visiting them. From the unique animals, our favorite sightings, animal interaction; something about animals bring out the child in all of us. We all have our favorite zoo, and following are a few of the top rated zoos from Arizona to around the globe. Our experiences still continue since the 1859 to today in escaping to lands unknown to us.

ARIZONA
Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, AZ ~ http://phoenixzoo.org
The largest non-profit zoo in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo covers a 125 acre complex with a unique twist - the wide sprawling park allows rollerblades and bicycles. Four long trails cover the native wildlife of Arizona, Africa and more showcasing more than 1,200 animals, and visitors can also visit the touch-tank called Stingray Bay. In 1973, the Phoenix Zoo gained worldwide attention for its Asian Elephant named Ruby who came to the zoo after being in Thailand.

CALIFORNIA
San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA ~ http://www.sandiegozoo.org
One of the largest zoos in the world with over 4,000 animals and more than 800 species, the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park will provide you with exhibits that are designed around a particular habitat from an African Rain Forest to the Artic Taiga and Tundra. There are exhibits that are in a more “natural” state providing an open air feeling with invisible wires, darkened blinds to view birds, and pools and open-air moats for large mammals. Complete with rolling landscapes of exotic plants, winding pathways and natural exhibits occupying 100 acres along with a safari-style Wild Animal Park on the outskirts (separate admission necessary).

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC ~ http://nationalzoo.si.edu/
Founded in 1889 and know as one of the oldest zoos in the United States and commonly known as the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This Washington, DC landmark is also part of the Smithsonian Institution where admission is free. Here, the 163 acres are easily accessible via the DC metro system, and you will find all-day educational exhibits, activities, and lots of animal viewing.

FLORIDA
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando FL ~ http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/animal-kingdom
As part of Walt Disney World Resort, the Animal Kingdom is home to 1,7000 animals which represent 250 different species on 500 acres. Here you will find lush landscape, rivers, waterfalls and natural animal exhibits that create an atmosphere of walking through their pristine nature. Take a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari and witness animal life through the African Savannah Animals and nature or view the wildlife from their rafts. See the 14-story Tree of Life carved with images of over 300 different animals. The rides through the park make is easy to see lots of animals in a shorter time. The park also includes parades, performances and live musical shows.

Lowery Park Zoo, Tampa, FL ~ http://www.lowryparkzoo.com
Lowry Park Zoo is the only zoo in the country with an accredited preschool and kindergarten on-site. Parents magazine voted this zoo as “Best Zoo for Kids” as children are able to interact with the animals. With so many interactions to do from brushing a goat’s fur, feeding birdseed lollipops to parakeets, riding on a llama, a camel, feeding the giraffes, a white rhino, stingrays and walking down paths while kangaroos and wallabies hop in front of them, this zoo is certain to provide fun and education.

Lion Country Safari, West Palm Beach, FL ~ http://www.lioncountrysafari.com
For a unique and altogether different realm of a safari, visit Lion County Safari, the nation’s original open-road animal attraction. Here you enter in your own vehicle and drive over 5 miles of road. During your tour you will see zebras and giraffes roaming freely, while certain animals such as the lions and chimpanzees are contained in fences for your safety. Lion Country Safari also hosts the traditional zoological attractions as well as carnival rides for its visitors.

HAWAII
Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu, Hawaii ~ http://www.waquarium.org
The Waikiki Aquarium may not be your typical zoo, but this is one too good not to miss. Located next to a living coral reef, the aquarium will bring you face-to-face with colorful tropical fish, reef sharks, living corals, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, sea jellies, squid, octopus and everything else that swims up to meet you. The exhibits are centered around the aquatic life of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific. There are over 2,500 organisms in exhibits representing more than 420 species of aquatic animals, including 201 species of fish and 223 species of invertebrates.

MARYLAND
Maryland Zoo, Baltimore, MD ~ http://www.marylandzoo.org, http://www.aqua.org
Established in 1876 as The Baltimore Zoo, the now named in 2004 as the Maryland Zoo is the third oldest zoo in the country. The 160 plus acres houses more than 1,500 birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, and represents nearly 200 species. In addition, the zoo has partnered with the National Aquarium in Baltimore with over 16,000 sea creatures.

MINNESOTA
Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, MN ~ http://www.mnzoo.com
One of the first zoos to organize its animals by their living environment instead of organizing the animals according to their species. The Minnesota Zoo has exhibits that are divided into five themed areas with three themed walking trails and is located in a suburbanizing rural area.

MISSOURI
St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis, MO ~ http://www.stlzoo.org
Visit a zoo that is recognized as a leading zoo in animal management, research, conservation and education and you have the St. Louis Zoo. Admission is free but there are some fees for some of their features such as the Zooline Railroad. This small passenger train encircles the zoo and stops at the more popular attractions.

LOUISIANA
Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, LA ~ http://www.auduboninstitute.org
The Audubon Zoo dates back to the early 20th century and is one of the country’s top ranked zoos offering an exotic mix of animals from around the world. Here you will find natural habitats, lush gardens, resting spots, the mystical Louisiana swamp where you can see the zoo’s famous white alligators. They offer hands-on animal encounters, a large aquarium, and an IMAX Theatre. Note that all exhibits are closed on Mondays.

NEBRASKA
Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NB ~ http://www.omohazoo.com
To see the largest rainforest in the world, visit this zoos Lied Jungle which opened in 1992 featuring this rainforest which occupies an 80 foot tall building that span 1.5 acres.

NEW YORK
Bronx Zoo, New York, NY ~ http://www.bronxzoo.com
Setting on 265 acres and home to over 4,000 animals, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. In addition, this oasis is only a short subway ride from Manhattan and boasts the largest man-made rainforest in the world, with a monorail ensuring accessibility. It’s also the first zoo in the world to teach students from preschoolers to 12th graders with an offering of 20 courses with the material translated into Chinese, Spanish, and African languages, and its curriculum is used in every state and 15 nations. Another win-win reason to visit is that a portion of your admission helps to fund the Wildlife Conservation Society.

OHIO
The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH ~ http://cincinnatizoo.org
Opening in 1875, this zoo is the second oldest zoo in the United States with The Reptile House being the oldest zoo building in America, dating back to 1875. The Cincinnati Zoo was unofficially nicknamed “The Sexiest Zoo in America” for its world renowned breeding programs, especially for cheetahs. The zoo hosts a vast collection of endangered species, plants, macaws, Indian rhinos, cheetahs, Brazilian ocelots and Western Lowland gorillas.

Columbus Zoo, Columbus OH ~ http://www.columbuszoo.org
The zoo has continuously been open since 1927 and has its exhibits divided into eight regions of the world with home to 5,00 animals and over 700 species. In addition to the zoo, located just south of the zoo is an 18-hole golf course (Safari Golf Club), a water park (Zoombezi Bay), and an amusement park (Jungle Jack’s Landing). The Columbus Zoo is home to one of the most notable animal experts in the world, Jack Hanna and is home to “Jungle Jack”.

PENNSYLVANIA
The Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA ~ http://www.philadelphiazoo.org
Opening in 1875 the Philadelphia Zoo was chartered in March of 1859 making it the oldest zoo in America. With 42 acres to explore and 1,300 animals, this family friendly zoo is a revered historic site celebrating the many years of zoology in the United States. Another first for this zoo is it is the first in the country to “go green”. It has implemented a carbon offset program, “Footprints” which sets standards to make the zoo operation eco-friendly and to counteract global climate change. The zoo also teaches visitors how to participate in the conservation effort through planting trees, recycling and how to use recycled products.


TEXAS
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Glen Rose, TX ~ http://www.fossilrim.org
This 1,700 acre wildlife center is dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered and threatened species and is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center features more than a dozen exotic big game species and visitors are able to take a guided tour of the park or do a driving tour on their own. Another perk is that visitors also have overnight lodging and other accommodations available at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. (See below for more overnight accommodations at zoos)

Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, TX ~ http://www.fortworthzoo.org
Accredited as “The Top Zoo in the Nation” by Family Life, USA Today and the Los Angeles Time, this zoo was founded in 1909. With more than 500 species from every continent (except Antarctica), this zoo features a special tribute to the native flora and fauna of Texas. Their featured exhibit, Texas Wild, enables visitors to learn about the diverse wildlife of the Lone Star State with a historic look back at the turn-of-the-century Texas in an authentic town recreated from the early 1900’s.

Houston Zoo, Houston, TX ~ http://www.houstonzoo.org
This zoo stands out for its surprisingly modern facilities and it’s exhibits that have been renovated within the past five years. With a couple choices on how you see the park, the Houston Zoo offers you options. You are able to set off on your own or you can make reservations to plan a private tour that will take you beyond the normal visitation parameters and get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes, watch feedings, see the animal hospital and even see some animal training.

Some worldwide ventures take us to:

AUSTRIA
Tiergarten Schonnbrunn Zoo, Vienna, Austria ~ http://www.zoovienna.at/en/zoo-and-visitors/visitor-information/
Established in 1752 this is the oldest zoo in the world. Centrally located, the Tiergarten Schonnbrunn Zoo has kept its historical charm along with world class ultra modern facilities. With exhibits that are home to nearly 500 species you will most certainly be visiting one of the world’s leading zoos.

CZECH REPUBLIC
Zoo Praha, Prague, Czech Republic ~ http://www.zoopraha.cz/en
As one of the best zoos in Europe, you will be visiting 111 acres and approximately 4,600 animals with 630 different species all on 5 Euros for the day (a great value). With a great diversity of animals, you will also see the Indonesia Jungle and Monkey Island.

FRANCE
The Beauval Zoo, France
Voted one of the 15 most beautiful zoos in the world and is just outside the village of St. Aignan, France. The zoo originally opened in 1980 and houses over 2,000 birds. Ten years later other animals were introduced and the zoo has now grown to over 4,000 animals.

JAPAN
Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Nagoya, Japan
This 150 acre zoo dates back to 1937 and offers a complete nature experience. With a botanical garden, an amusement park and a zoo with approximately 550 species, you will find yourself with a day full of fun. This is the largest zoo in Asia and you are now able to see panoramic views of the area with their recently built Higashiyama Sky Tower complete with observation decks and a restaurant 100 meters off the ground.

SINGAPORE
Singapore Zoo, Singapore ~ http://www.zoo.com.sg/
For an open concept and accessible zoo visit this 70 acre rainforest landscape where the animals are kept in large landscaped open air areas that are separated from visitors by hidden barriers. The spectacular beauty of the Singapore Zoo is enhanced with pathways including the hidden barriers to include vegetation, streams, moats and rocks.

SOUTH AFRICA
National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria, South Africa
Better known as the Pretoria Zoo, this National Zoological Gardens is the largest zoo in South Africa with 3,117 animals and the largest inland marine aquarium in the country as well as a reptile park and the third largest collection of exotic trees. They offer and “Adopt an Animal Scheme” that helps provide support for the animal’s food and care for a full year - this also enable you free admittance to the zoo as often as you desire. There are aquarium tours, camping tours (aka - a sleep over) and night tours, which are perfect for spotting owls, elephants, lions and red pandas.

SWITZERLAND
Zoologischer Garten, Basel, Switzerland ~ http://www.zoobasel.ch/
One of the greatest zoos in the world famous for breeding endangered species in captivity. The zoo was established in 1874 and is Switzerland’s largest zoo covering approximately 30 acres and is the second most visited attraction in all of Switzerland. There are more than 6,000 animals including Somolian wild donkeys and dwarf hippopotami.

For the animal in all of us a growing number of zoos are offering some thrilling after dark experiences and even some with overnight stays. The Philadelphia Zoo offering the “Roars and Snores” overnight program to the most popular program of the “Night Flight” where children age five to twelve sleep in the zoo’s tree house. The Houston Zoo offers “Wild Winks” for ages seven and above. Here you will spend the night for a totally unique after hours experience including interactive activities, touchable animals, a pizza dinner, continental breakfast, and free admission to the zoo on the following day. The San Diego Zoo also offers a Safari Sleepover and along with so many other zoos that are now offering these programs.

Be sure to check with your local zoo to see if they offer some after hour experiences for the wild child inside of you.

Photograph by Mark Bodnar  http://www.markbodnar.com/ from http://lionsandtigers.bunchofmonkeys.com/

Ice cream and summertime seem to go hand-in-hand and July is National Ice Cream month - bonus!

Dating back to the 1600’s where the concept of flavored ices evolved, ice cream has come a long way from the flavored ices to the hand-crank ice cream maker to a multi million ice cream (gallon) industry per year. We now have ice cream cones, ice cream cakes, pies, sundaes, and about anything your taste buds desire. Trip Advisor shared their members top picks for homemade ice cream. Here are the details to one of our favorite summertime treats:

The Split Banana Company in Staunton, Virginia (VA)
http://thesplitbanana.com/
Open 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

You can sample as many flavors as you want before you decide. They have free high-speed WiFi for their customers, ice ice cream, gelato and sorbet.

Brown’s Old Fashion Ice Cream in York Beach (New England), Maine (ME)
232 Nubble Road, York, ME 03909
207-363-1277

Brown’s Old Fashion Ice Cream is located about a hundred yards from the famous Nubble lighthouse (just east of Nubble Lighthouse http://www.nubblelight.org/ and Fox’s Lobster House http://www.foxslobster.com/) and not far from the busy York Beach boardwalk (1-2 miles) http://yorkbeach.com/. Brown’s offers 50 plus ice cream varieties including hard to find flavors like grape nut and Indian pudding.  (Photograph of Nubble Lighthouse)

Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream in Charleston, West Virginia (WV)
255 Capitol Street, Charleston, WE 25301
304-343-6488
Monday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Homemade ice cream, unique flavors and large serving sizes. Ellen’s also serves a lunch menu salads and sandwiches which are all fresh and delicious, along with daily specials of cold pasta, grain salads and soups including an amazing Red Curry Soup. Coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and baked goods with of course, ice cream for your dessert or even an appetizer.

Sweet Peaks Ice Cream in Whitefish, Montana (MT)
http://www.sweetpeaksicecream.com/

Opened in April 2010 and serving everything from the classics to the contemporary such as Lemon Dill and Chocolate Bacon. Their flavors change with the seasons and their ice cream is made with milk and eggs from Montana, huckleberries from the surrounding mountains, mint, dill and cherries from local farmers, and many other tasty and carefully chosen ingredients.

Cayuga Lake Creamery in Interlaken, (Finger Lakes), New York (NY)
http://www.cayugalakecreamery.com (please note at the time of this article, I was unable to open their website, but wanted to provide you the information in case it is back up and running)
8421 Route 89, Interlaken, NY 14847
607-532-9492
Monday - Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Homemade waffle cones made right before you. In addition to the many flavors, they also offer wine sorbets - Yummers!

Zinger’s Homemade Ice Cream in Seaside, Oregon (OR)
http://www.zingersicecream.com/

Homemade ice cream made with local ingredients. Summer hours are daily 1:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. with the exception of July 4th where the hours are noon - 9:00 p.m.. Remember to bring cash - no credit or debit cards accepted.

Pink’s Creamery in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii (HI)
4489 Aku Road, Hanalei, KI 96714
808-826-1257

Choose your own ice cream, pick a topping that you want swirled in it and continue with more toppings on top of that.  Think about then taking a hike to the beautiful Hanakapiai Beach http://www.kauaivacationsecrets.com/hanakapiai-beach/ and enjoy the scenery.  (Photograph of Hanakapiai Beach)

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream in Youngstown, Ohio (OH)
http://handelsicecream.com/home/index.html

Daily handmade ice cream and yogurt since 1945.  With too many flavors to list with big servings. If by chance you can’t get there, your problem is solved - they even offer Ice Cream Shipping within the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii.

Bedford Farms in Bedford, Massachusetts (MA)
http://www.bedfordfarmsicecream.com/

Serving ice cream since 1880 and is open year round. Bedford Farms Ice Cream serves homemade style gourmet ice cream, frozen yogurt and soft serve ice cream in over 60 flavors.

Brickley’s Ice Cream in Narragansett, Rhode Island (RI)
http://www.brickleys.com/

Serving over 45 flavors ice cream, frozen yogurt, no-sugar added ice cream, sherbets and sorbet made fresh daily with only the best ingredients. Brickley’s has appeared on a “Best Ice Cream in New England” list amongst many others.

Hungry for some ice cream now? Here is a simple recipe with no ice cream maker needed. (Keep in mind that the advantage of using an electric or hand-cranked machine is that the final result will be smoother and creamier. Freezing anything from liquid-to-solid means you’re creating hard ice crystals, so if you’re making it by hand, as your ice cream or sorbet mixture freezes, you want to break up those ice crystals as much as possible so your final results are as smooth and creamy as possible).

Here is a great, very creamy recipe basic from http://www.kevinandamanda.com/ to give you some summertime ice cream smiles.

You will need:

2 cups of heavy cream 
1 can (14 oz) of Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk.

Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.

Add your flavors, toppings to the Sweetened Condensed Milk.

Fold in the whipped cream.

Place in covered 2 quart container and freeze 6 hours or until firm.

Some ideas for flavors and toppings could be ½ tsp cinnamon with ½ tsp vanilla extract and 3 Tablespoons melted butter, or try ½ cup Nutella with 1 cup peanut butter chips.

Now, I think I need to get busy and start celebrating with some ice cream . . . it is National Ice Cream Month after all!  Feel free to share your favorite Ice Cream Shoppe or recipe ~ we really can’t get enough of this wonderful treat!

Proud to be an American or what does freedom mean to you? Independence Day not only reminds us how lucky we are to live in America, but also is associated with many traditions. Independence Day brings out our patriotic presence that is seen and felt everywhere you go. Traditionally, many people decorate their homes with flags, buntings and streamers in red, white and blue, which symbolize the colors of the flag.

The 4th of July is perhaps the most American of all their holidays because it symbolizes the commencement of the nation. Independence Day has become an important occasion where Americans are able to truly express their freedom.

This day has forever been a favorite for traditions of fireworks, parades, barbecues, beer, picnics, baseball, outdoor parties, public and private events honoring the nation.

Since July of 1777, fireworks have been the most identifiable event for the Fourth of July.

Many people decorate their home with the American flag, which, there is even an United States Flag Code and Rules for displaying the flag outdoors. The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules as follows:

1. The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing, unless it is the ensign responding to a salute from a ship of a foreign nation.

2. The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.

3. The flag should not be used as "wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery",or for covering a speaker's desk, draping a platform, or for any decoration in general (exception for coffins). Bunting of blue, white and red stripes is available for these purposes. The blue stripe of the bunting should be on the top.

4. The flag should never be drawn back or bunched up in any way.

5. The flag should never be used as a covering for a ceiling.

6. The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose. It should not be embroidered, printed, or otherwise impressed on such articles as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, boxes, or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use. Advertising signs should not be attached to the staff or halyard.

7. The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.

8. The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.

9. When the flag is lowered, no part of it should touch the ground or any other object; it should be received by waiting hands and arms. To store the flag it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously.

10. The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.

11. If the flag is being used at a public or private estate, it should not be hung (unless at half mast) during rain or violent weather.

12. When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of the United States, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. The American Legion and other organizations regularly conduct dignified flag-burning ceremonies, often on Flag Day, June 14.

13. The flag should never touch anything beneath it. Contrary to an urban legend, the flag code does not state that a flag that touches the ground should be burned. Instead, the flag should be moved so it is not touching the ground.

When display your flag outdoors, the rules state:

1. When the flag is displayed from a staff projecting from a window, balcony, or a building, the union should be at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff. When it is displayed from the same flagpole with another flag, the flag of the United States must always be at the top except that the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for Navy personnel when conducted by a Naval chaplain on a ship at sea.

2. When the flag is displayed over a street, it should be hung vertically, with the union to the north or east. If the flag is suspended over a sidewalk, the flag's union should be farthest from the building.

3. When flown with flags of states, communities or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor—to its own right. The other flags may be the same size but none may be larger.

4. No other flag ever should be placed above it. The flag of the United States is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.

5. When flown with the national banner of other countries, each flag must be displayed from a separate pole of the same height. Each flag should be the same size. They should be raised and lowered simultaneously. The flag of one nation may not be displayed above that of another nation.

6. The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously.

7. Ordinarily it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset, although the Flag Code permits night time display "when a patriotic effect is desired." Similarly, the flag should be displayed only when the weather is fair, except when an all weather flag is displayed. (By Presidential proclamation and law, the flag is displayed continuously at certain honored locations like the United States Marine Corps Memorial in Arlington and Lexington Green.)

8. It should be illuminated if displayed at night.

9. The flag of the United States of America is saluted as it is hoisted and lowered. The salute is held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or through the last note of music, whichever is the longest.

And when displaying the flag indoors:

1. When on display, the flag is accorded the place of honor, always positioned to its own right. Place it to the right of the speaker or staging area or sanctuary. Other flags should be to the left.

2. The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of states, localities, or societies are grouped for display.

3. When one flag is used with the flag of the United States of America and the staffs are crossed, the flag of the United States is placed on its own right with its staff in front of the other flag.

4. When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag's union (stars) should be at the top, to the flag's own right, and to the observer's left

Now that we have all that straight, onto the barbecues, picnics, and other customs. Many families celebrate Independence Day by hosting or going to picnics or barbecues and take advantage of the holiday by using it as an opportunity to spend time with relatives and friends. Barbecues as well as picnics have become a 4th of July tradition for usually summer is the perfect time to spend outdoors and the long holiday weekend.

For some outdoor parties here are a few ideas for you:

Pool Party / Beach Party ~ Swimwear, beach towels, sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of activities such as: an aquatic volleyball net and consider teams of boys versus girls. Have a swimming race, diving contests to collect coins tossed on the bottom of the pool, or if at the beach, maybe who makes the most patriotic sand sculpture.

The traditional grilling ensemble of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs are a must. Serve other barbecued favorites like chicken, steak and fish as another option and side dishes of potato and macaroni salad, potato chips and dip, fresh watermelon, ice cream and other hot weather favorites.

After everyone is done in the pool, have an area for socializing and a little relaxing.  Of course, a Fourth of July party wouldn't be complete without a few fireworks. If you don't want to put on an elaborate display, hand out sparklers for guests to light after dark.

A Fun Day at the Park ~ Pre-plan your picnic and grilling menu and have your bags packs with lots of fun activities to entertain all. Decorate with paper tablecloths, streamers, and balloons in the traditional red, white and blue color scheme. Plan a tug of war, three-legged and wheelbarrow races. Set up a badminton sets, a croquet set, flying disks, and other outdoor games. For younger children bring sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, and hula hoops. Have a watermelon seed-spitting contest or even a water balloon toss.

To end you day have sparklers for everyone, a bonfire with s’mores or even hobo pies. Make sure you bring your first-aid kit, bug spray, blankets, and even swim suits for river or lake events (a change of dry clothes is always appreciated).

An Old-Fashioned Fourth of July ~ Have a simple potluck with some old fashioned fun such as apple bobbling, games of checker and making homemade ice-cream. Just being together with family and friends sometimes provides the best memories.

There are truly so many reasons to enjoy this holiday. Not only do we commend the men and women who have fought and continue to fight for our freedom, but we are able to show our appreciation in so many ways. Visit a Veterans hospital, a nursing home, think of those who may not have the luxuries that you have. Look around you and ask yourself, what does “freedom” mean to you? Begin a scrapbook with your children and see how their answers change each year. I love the idea from Rachael Rays August 2011 magazine to make a keepsake scrapbook out of a key ring. Paper punch a hole in your mementoes and thread them onto the key ring. A souvenir to cherish for years to come.

What says more than finishing the 4th of July day with some great old fashioned all American Apple Pie ~ and maybe a little extra helping of ice cream?

Ingredients

1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie

1/2 cup unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/4 cup water

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

8 Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored and sliced

Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour to form a paste. Add water, white sugar and brown sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce temperature and let simmer.

Place the bottom crust in your pan. Fill with apples, mounded slightly. Cover with a lattice work crust. Gently pour the sugar and butter liquid over the crust. Pour slowly so that it does not run off.

Bake 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, until apples are soft.

Yields 1-9” pie; Serves 8

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 512, Total Fat: 26.7 g, Cholesterol: 31 mg, Sodium 241 mg, Total Carbs: 67.8g, Dietary Fiber: 5 g, Protein: 3.6g

Recipe courtesy of http://allrecipes.com/recipe/apple-pie-by-grandma-ople/detail.aspx

Happy 4th of July!!!