Thirteen just might be your lucky number especially when starting your Friday the 13th with these.

(Left to Right and a little up and down along the way)

1.  Wake up smelling the fresh air with this collection of crisp lime.  http://www.williams-sonoma.com/m/products/lime-blossom-essential-oils-soap-lotion-collection/?bnrid=3102330&cm_ite=hero_cta&tp=i-H43-Q2T-IMH-AxQQGk-1n-Ncny-1c-AxCueD-1qwB2&cm_ven=EDM&cm_cat=PROMO&cm_pla=0313_SoapsLotions_FF_4100K&[email protected]&om_mid=70573

2. A treat for your feet ... and dodging those Spring puddles. http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/c/womens-hunter?origin=fashionresultspreview

3. Some strawberries and champagne ~ yes please!  http://ministryofalcohol.com/2012/champagne-soaked-4th-of-july-strawberries/?crlt.pid=camp.ptpXH3JSLtnP

4. Grow some color. http://lifefad.blogspot.com/2014/01/how-to-grow-tulips-in-vase-indoors.html?m=1

5. Wave goodbye to Winter. http://www.popsugar.com/fashion/How-Style-Your-Rings-36139293?crlt.pid=camp.7VQ8zMUlQTAS

6. Keep it healthy and fresh with a Mediterranean Chopped Salad. http://thecafesucrefarine.com/2014/07/mediterranean-chopped-salad/#_a5y_p=2685547

7. Bright and Beautiful. http://www.brightboldbeautiful.com/2012/03/15/garden-party/

8. You can't go wrong with Sushi California Rolls. http://natashaskitchen.com/2013/10/23/sushi-rice-and-california-rolls-recipe/#_a5y_p=1434590

9. Adventure awaits everywhere. http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/1200x/58/16/c2/5816c2b81cafe9d6c6df6d834ba3ce5f.jpg

10. Take a Break. http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/1632700

11. Wine by design 💛 Yes, this is usually how I pick my wine ... It's about the label. http://www.buzzfeed.com/ryankincaid/lorem-ipsum-in-vino-veritas?sub=3494130_4132038

12. Add some color to your world. http://justanothermasterpiece.tumblr.com/post/53350945549/alex-hense

13. Whatever you do ~ don't forget to play. http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/fun-best-friend-photography-ideas?utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&s=mobile

#fridayfun #fridaythe13 

#williamssonoma #lime #lotion #candle #spring #hunterboots #strawberries #champagne #popsugar #rings #flowers #sushi #californiarolls #travel #adventure #huffingtonpost #wine #winelabels #buzzfeed #abstract #art #play #friends 

Add some shine to your Thanksgiving events with these beautiful leaves.

Supplies:

A bag of artificial leaves, glue, glitter (assorted colors of Fall), a paintbrush and string/ribbon. *

Directions:

Apply Elmer's glue to each leaf and then sprinkle glitter over the leaf. Let the glue set and shake off the excess glitter.

*Punch a hole at the top of each leaf before or after and attach a ribbon that you can tie up or use to a large ribbon strand to hand the pieces from.

#thanksgiving #holiday #event #diy #leaves #glitter

Photo via boxwood clippings

It's not pretty as you drive past the gas station these days.  Yes, the price of gas only seems to be rising while our money seems to be disappearing faster.   Does this change a lot of travel plans?  Of course it does, but it still doesn't mean you can't have a vacation ~ just a little fine tuning to your travel plans.   

Springtime brings those dreary days of rain showers that make our flowers bloom, adds color to our trees and the eventful puddle jumping with some umbrella and rain gear in need. 

With the two variables of gas and rain, some might throw up their hands and just say "Forget it!  No travel!".   Well, Twig Travel is here to give you some great ideas that may not be at the top of your list, but a short mini-break out of the house just may be what the doctor ordered while we await Summertime.

Many hotels are offering travel incentives ranging from lower nightly fares, gas cards, food, drink, free in-room movies and more. This is a great way to travel close to home and yet not spend a lot on fuel. 

Here is just a sampling of some online companies with offers: 

http://www.hotels.com/deals offers lower nightly fares in their "Deals" 

In the Midwest, the indoor waterpark Kalahari Resorts at Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin and Sandusky, Ohio locations has has brought back last year’s Fuel for Fun promotion.  During May, the package starts at $149.95 a night in Wisconsin ($169.95 a night in Ohio), and includes accommodations and waterpark passes for up to four people, plus a $40.00 gas card. 

Sterling Resorts at http://www.sterlingresorts.com/ has many Gulf Coast vacation home resorts in Northwest Florida,and  is giving a $100.00 gas card for week-long stays with its “Tanks for Staying” promo. If you stay three nights, you’ll receive a $50.00 credit. To claim your gas credit, just present a gas receipt upon check-in showing a fill-up during your trip to the beach.  Promo code TANKS. 

Even Expedia is offering discounts of up to 50% on hotel reservations and prepaid gas cards to encourage travelers to make summer vacation plans.  More than 125 hotels of the 400 participating in Expedia’s program are offering vacationers half-off their usual booking rates for stays of four nights or more. Other participating hotels are giving discounts of at least 30% off on room rates. Reservations must be booked online at www.expedia.com.

For those that are looking for less overnight travel, here are some great things to do and visit on a rainy day:  aquarium, botanical gardens, bowling, broadway show/play/live performance, dance in the rain, dinner by a roaring fire, floral center, indoor batting cages or activity center, indoor skating, library, mega-mall or shopping center, movie theater, museums, picnic under a pavallion, spa day pampering, waterpark (you're going to get wet anyway - as long as their's no lightening, or better yet, go to an indoor waterpark), wine tasting tour, zoo (umbrella and gear still may be needed). 

I hope you're busy making your travel plans and remember to visit our travel planning packages for all your needs.

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/1200x/93/8e/08/938e083e891b51d36360a643d48efd8b.jpg

In preparing for Mother's Day I started thinking how often we take for granted such simple moments that are actually times that turn into everlasting memories.

I am blessed to have my mother and to share so many memories but as I started getting ready for the holiday I realized I really didn't know the little things about my mom. I didn't know her favorite food or even her favorite flower so ... I asked.

My mom told me she didn't really have any "favorites" and that she really didn't even know her favorite color. This all got stuck in the wheels of my mind (I kind of get like that) and I kept contemplating how that could be? She had made casual remarks over the years that she liked something or thought something was pretty BUT how did I never realize this? I looked around me and there were so many precious feelings... and then it made sense.

My whole life I grew up with memories of scents, taste, sounds and feelings. These memories were created and etched by a mother who constantly gave in order to let me fly - well, actually soar into life.

I laugh at myself because when the kids asks, "What do you want?" out comes my mother. I hear them say, "Mom, that's tradition" and I know I have my momma to thank. I know I will carry these precious memories with me and she will always be with me.

I am blessed to have her, amazed at her strength, but most of all, so very proud to call her mine!!!

When I first thought of what reminded me most of my momma ... Meatloaf. I know, I have no idea. I don't think anyone could match her cooking for we kind of just add things. Secondly would be her Swiss steak with freshly canned stewed tomatoes over mashed potatoes simmering on a Sunday afternoon. I think I see where my comfort foods come from.

http://www.yummly.com/recipe/Swiss-steaks-350929

Going down memory lane I found that there were a lot of things that represented my mom ~

http://www.rubylane.com/item/172399-13625/VINTAGE-Raggedy-Ann-Andy-Doll

http://m.target.com/p/radio-flyer-classic-red-dual-deck-tricycle/-/A-01166?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=%7C01166&CPNG=Toys&kpid=01166&LID=PA&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=01166

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/1200x/8c/8f/07/8c8f07c885e3130af94c611a044cf192.jpg

http://www.helloandgoodbuy.com/collectibles/public/product.asp?ProductID=14182

My love of reading and adventure led me to a life of creativity and endless dreams.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78092795/junior-deluxe-editions-childrens-book

http://poshhome.info/2014/03/25/put-together-a-smores-box-before-you-leave-to-go-camping-no-wrappers-to-deal-with-and-less-trash-to-pack-out/

It's funny how memories can make you feel warm and safe. This isn't the exact chair but we use to have a high red chair at the end of the counter where I'd put my feet on the wall vent, clicking it open and shut while mom cooked.

http://ashtrygutierrez.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/vintage-wood-spindle-chair-red-painted-chair/

Some things just make you smile ~

http://somewheresplendid.com/page/3/

http://www.massagewarehouse.com/products/thermal-cotton-blanket-white-66x96/default.aspx?OrderItemId=5966235&DepartmentId=2184&print=y&mobile=y

http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/291009548281

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/1200x/b2/e4/35/b2e43593c3780e5ef2ca809a683274ed.jpg

http://www.learnplaywin.net/rummy/rummy-rules.htm

http://www.etsy.com/listing/110945326/mid-century-1960s-hamilton-beach-malt?utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share

http://gardenfuzzgarden.com/2013/12/05/philadelphus-virginal-mock-orange/

http://www.asweetpeachef.com/sauces/fresh-peach-jam/

To be honest, I never understood why we had this because vegetables and dessert made no sense. Now I smile.

http://iowasue.blogspot.com/2010/05/carrot-and-pineapple-salad.html?m=1

My last thought is something that makes me laugh because I can hear the phone call(s) still ... my bread salad - and no mom, this still is not the recipe. I don't have a recipe.

http://trickschefs.com/showthread.php?tid=1399

With that, I'm off to make some more memories. A very Happy Mother's Day to all of you. Remember, you are important to someone and be sure to tell them. I Love You Mom and Thank You for being exactly who you are!!!

After hitting a health bump in my road the last couple weeks I had little to do but to think about work and how much I was missing my connection with everyone during my recovery. I also started thinking about those that travel and do we really think about getting sick while on vacation? Are we as prepared as we think we are? Away my mind started to travel and thought it might be a good time to share some thoughts and safety issues for those “just in case” moments.

Before you even leave, make sure you check insurance coverage with your carrier and, particularly, whether or not you are covered while traveling abroad. Also, keep in mind that some insurance plans do not cover you if you’re more than 100 miles from home. If your coverage does not apply to where you might be traveling, it's probably a good idea to buy travel insurance that includes medical benefits. Know the protocol to use the benefits in advance. 

Many insurance company's allow consumers to compare travel-insurance rates. Travel insurance costs will vary by age, coverage limit, length and price of your trip.

So now you’re aware of your coverage and it’s time to get ready. First and most importantly, make sure you have all your insurance documents and information with you, including your prescription drug card. Complete the information page on the inside of your passport in case of emergency or if you aren’t travel abroad or don‘t have a passport, write out your information and emergency contacts and keep it with your documentation along with a concise list of your medications . Remember, those of you who take medications should pack enough to last the entire trip and then extra in case of travel delays.

For those that have a pre-existing medical condition, carry a letter from your primary care physician describing the condition and any prescription medications you are currently taking, including generic names for these drugs. Be sure to leave any medications you are taking with you outside of the United States in their original containers, clearly labeled. Some medications are considered to be illegal narcotics in foreign countries. You may want to check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting to be sure.

For more information and in severe cases, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate for a list of local physicians and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance, and, if you desire, inform your family and/or friends. They can also assist in the transfer of funds from family or friends in the United States. Payment of hospital and other medical bills are the travelers' responsibility.

To be prepared for those minor incidents, bring the basics when you pack. I always bring a supply of medicine with me for headaches, coughs, colds, stomach disorders, along with band-aids, ointments and other first aid needs.

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you can’t take a day to relax and hopefully heal. Missing one day may be a lot better than missing out on your whole vacation. If you’re still not feeling well, there are several options for you to help aid in your recovery.

Your hotel front desk or concierge can help you in seeking a doctor or pharmacy nearby and possibly help you in transportation. Sometimes, if you're not sick enough to need a doctor, a pharmacist can suggest over-the-count medicines that can be helpful.

You may be able to find Mobile Physicians who actually visit you at your location. Just note that you may have to pay upfront for many of these “in-home” services and your insurance company may not reimburse you for all the expenses. However, if you have travel insurance, some of these expenses may be covered. A trip to an urgent care center or even an emergency room are also options.

Be sure to keep all the paperwork you receive so you are able to submit itemized bills for reimbursement to your health insurance provider.

Hopefully you will never need to use this information and your travels are safe and healthy, but at least you are prepared and have your resources ready!

From whimsical to serene, design a table fit for you and your guests this Easter holiday.

Here are some ideas to get the creativity started ~

http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/61924563596319571_LuwNboV4.jpg

http://www.hgtv.com/entertaining/10-easy-tablescapes-for-easter/pictures/page-2.html

https://m.flickr.com/photos/44953325@N06/4483630184/

http://www.shelterness.com/100-cool-easter-decorating-ideas/pictures/6750/

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/1200x/05/31/7f/05317f8c613ff6442c68720f5f2523bc.jpg

http://trendenser.se/2013/march/pysseltips-till-pask.html

http://www.shelterness.com/100-cool-easter-decorating-ideas/

http://blog.williams-sonoma.com/spring-centerpieces-with-blue-eggs-daffodils/

http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/04/blues-and-branches-a-spring-tablescape/

http://s774.photobucket.com/user/luckkywilliamson1/media/Easterplacesetting.jpg.html

Everyone wants to be unique on their wedding day, and your wedding invitation is one more way to show your personality, style and the unique design of your wedding. Choosing a non-traditional wedding invitation can show just this. Many couples opt for an unconventional style; a non-traditional wedding invitation that defines their vision

Oslo Press http://www.oslopress.com specializes in unique wedding invitations of wood veneer or paper. Their wood invitations are laser engraved with an original design, while the coordinating elements to the invitation suite re-created using paper and letterpress.

The wood invitation sets combine the use of rich wood veneer and elegant paper, making them some of the most unique and creative wedding invitations around. Each individual invitation is made of wood veneer that has been engraved with a design. The design is enhanced by the grain of the wood and each invite will be truly unique due to the natural variations found in the wood grain. The impression created by letterpress is enhanced by using soft paper, such as their house paper made from recovered cotton fibers, and provides a tactile print with a well defined three-dimensional look. Just as each piece of wood will be unique, so too will each paper item that comes off the press – leaving you with an invitation suite that is full of character, texture, and timeless beauty.

Night Owl Paper Goods http://nightowlpapergoods.com/ offers a large selection wood invitations with many coordinating accessories of eco-friendly wood and letterpress wedding invitations, note cards, gifts and goodies.

Artful Beginnings http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtfulBeginnings, http://artfulbeginnings.com/weddings.html makes fabric wedding invitations and special event invitations using a variety of unique and unusual materials such as 100% Belgian linen fabric, 100% Cotton Sateen, wildflower seeded paper, treeless paper, 100% recycled paper and others.

Acrylic, paper and metal for a wedding invitation? From The Wedding Guys where “cutting edge” takes on a whole new meaning. Sarah Glad with A Milestone Paper Company https://www.amilestonepaperco.com/ created this unique design with inspiration from the Le Meridien Chamber Hotel in Minneapolis, MN http://www.lemeridienchambers.com/ lobby bar painting ‘Seabird’ by Gary Hume. There are four layers to the invitation which encompass paper, acrylic, paper and metal and each invitation was wrapped with a ‘polka dot’ band with the guests name clearly printed on the band for special delivery to the guests.

For those that want a sweet and edible invitation, how about customized, engraved chocolate? Logos on Chocolate http://www.logosonchocolate.com/ can customize your chocolate invitation (just be sure to have your information printed on your customized wrapper as a reminder of your special day after your invitation is devoured by your guest).

If chocolate isn’t your thing, how about a cookie invitation from Favor Affair http://www.favoraffair.com/Search.aspx?q=cookie%20wedding%20invitation? “Guests will have a hard time forgetting this sweet invitation. Laced with sprinkles, accented with two toasting flutes and covered in fine Belgian white chocolate“, this sugar cookie will take edible invitations to the next level. Your cookie is personalized with your names and includes RSVP information for guests to respond.

Forever Fiances http://www.foreverfiances.com/ has a wonderful selection of handmade plantable seeded paper, which will grow wildflowers or garden herbs. Their 100% recycled plantable wedding invitations will keep your day a beautiful memory. With selections of their All in One Invitations (send and seal), save the date cards, thank you notes, and plantable keepsakes, your guests will be sure to remember such unique and beautiful invitations.

For the truly unique invitation, here is a wedding invitation that turns into a record. Folded just so, this card turns into a manually operated paper record player that plays a song recorded by the future bride and groom. Designer Kelli Anderson at http://kellianderson.com/blog/2011/04/a-paper-record-player/ wanted to create something original for the wedding of her friends Karen Sandler and Mike Tarantino.

All extraordinary weddings deserve an extraordinary wedding invitation such as the stunning designs of Lela New York http://www.lelanewyork.com/ where your couture designs are as special as your wedding. These couture wedding invitations were designed with Ivory silk outside and Gold silk inside. Lela New York's Gatefold Silk Box Invitations were custom designed right down to the lace detail that reflected the brides couture lace gown.

Another couture wedding invitation not be missed is from Event House https://m.facebook.com/InvitationsbyEventHouseHouston/about

Thier Facebook site is https://m.facebook.com/InvitationsbyEventHouseHouston?id=176004479057&refsrc=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FInvitationsbyEventHouseHouston

where a remarkable fusion of silk, ultra luxe papers, peacock feathers and fine jeweled embellishments complete the look of this couture wedding invitation. Each guest received a complete silk invitation suite including the formal wedding invitation card mounted on 100% silk dupioni with a keepsake gold foiled wedding bookmark. Each invitation ensemble also included a custom response card, a private wedding itinerary card, travel reminder and of course a complimenting reception card.

There are many factors to keep in mind when choosing your wedding invitations such as color, shape and style, but the bottom line is going to depend mostly on the design, your budget and also how you will be distributing your invitations. You want to make sure the presentation of your wedding invitation sets the mood for your wedding and correctly portrays your vision.

Who ever said the awards can't be pajama worthy? Be comfortable with your friends and family while watching a few uncomfortable movie stars enjoying the glitz and glamour and even making some of your own.

Serve up some fun with a simple popcorn party with plenty of options and creativity.

Nothing screams the Academy Awards more than the red carpet. Set the stage with your own red carpet or have your table covered in red with gold stars everywhere of course.

Have some fun with your guest with a simple ballot of "Best Dress", "Most Unusual Attire" and continue onward. Another option is a "Who Am I?" with clues from each movie.

For a unique spin, set-up a fun photo area with movie star accessories. Surprise your guests with lasting memories by using instagram.com

Create your own custom hashtag (ie #pricesperfectpopcornpajamaparty) have this handed out to all your guests so they are able to tag and keep the fun. Be sure to use your imagination and just have fun.

Ready for that popcorn buffet ~ Start with your basics ~

Regular popcorn

Cheddar popcorn

Carmel corn

Kettle corn

Now add on some fun ~

Red Twizzlers (a little red carpet rope fun)

Chili powder

Garlic

Parmesan cheese

Chocolate pieces

Reese's pieces candies

Mini peanut bitter cups

Rollo candies

M & M's (black & white)

Honey roasted peanuts

Almonds

Cinnamon

Salt/Sea Salt

Melted chocolates

Carmel syrup

Butter

Pretzels

Coconut

Marshmallows

Golden Graham's cereal

Dried fruit

Get comfy and enjoy the evening pajama style and may you receive an award!

Credits to: http://www.remodelaholic.com/2013/09/caramel-nutella-popcorn-recipe/

http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2011/08/smore_caramel_popcorn_recipe/

Popcorn bucket - http://thechicsite.com

Oscar Buzz beer - http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MobNiJSzfxE/T0hUDB-FNXI/AAAAAAAAAuE/mQw63Lgoubo/s1600/DSC_0792.JPG

My earliest memories of the Daytona 500 were of me laying on the floor curled up with my blankets and pillows while the engines roar would lull me off to sleep as my family watched with scents of dinner wafting through the house.

Now as I think of race day I include memories of gathering with friends with plenty of food and drink to share amongst the cheering and booing all in good fun. Still, secretly in the back of my mind while I plan a feast, I am most excited for a cold snowy day while curled up in my blanket.

So with that being said, let's have a feast. The last few months have covered Halloween candy, Thanksgiving feast, Christmas sweets, New Years riches, more sweet treats for Valentines only to name a few so I'm going to go with the simple satisfying good ole tailgating food starting fist with laying the scene with this table covering from http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/checkered-flag-tablecloth/69052

With plenty of choices for drinks, this year I wanted to add a fun spin on the basic beers and serve up a selection of a few flights.

http://fab.com/product/beer-flight-set-155057?frefl=Pinterest&save_selection=true

Make life easy for everyone with these adorable race ready baskets from http://www.etsy.com/listing/126755054/food-tray-food-basket-set-of-4-black?ref=shop_home_active

Getting hungry? I'm thinking good ole chili. Life doesn't get much simpler than that. For some added fun, why not have a buffet of condiments ~ cheeses, sour cream, onion, tomato, avocado, jalepneo peppers and some hot dogs and buns for those that want to be creative with their chili. Take a little inspiration from http://www.couponclippingcook.com/jalapeno-chili-dog/

Of course, enjoy some dips and chips, maybe even a few vegetables. For that sweet tooth, how about some "dipsticks" - chocolate covered pretzel rods or your basic "tires" - Oreos of course. If you're feeling creative, give your hand at this amazing checkered sweet.

Here is a little help if you're feeling ambitious http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2009/09/checkerboard-cake-is-there-a-secret.html

And to tie things up, or in this case, a little tape and a lot of fun.

Start your engines!

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea ~ why yes please, it sounds like heaven to me! 

A charming seaside village on the barrier island just north of Fort Lauderdale and minutes from the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport.  With  ocean views, this  community has managed to capture and keep its small town charm.  A motto of:   “Relax . . . You’re here”, how can one not fall in love with this beautiful community?!

A mix of shops, restaurants, and a beautiful wooden Angeline’s Pier, this
village appeals to all.  Friday and Saturday evenings you will find tourist and towns people listening and dancing to the bands play at the local street party.  Here people say hello and are friendly, and even though it is a tourist location, there is a genuine kindness.

This I found out prior to my travel.  With a wonderful gift of visiting one
of my favorite states (especially in escape of our Winters), I had the chore of finding a location.  Now, I will tell you, as most of you may know, when it comes to beach towns, you run the risk of getting what you pay for.  The streets are often filled with Mom and Pop motels - some wonderful and some not so much.  There are beautiful hotels, rentals, and options to take into consideration and of course, high season means high prices. 

This trip was quite a planning experience for me.  We had the dates,  we knew we were not renting a vehicle so we needed to be within walking distance to stores, and we would like a pool or at least to be able to walk to the ocean.  I sent out hundreds of requests (yes, seriously) from South to North.  I was truly beginning to think it just wasn’t going to happen and I really didn’t want to go on a vacation and sit beside a highway in a run down establishment with no pool, too far to walk anywhere and just waiting to go back home.  

I believe in good things and good people and I have had the pleasure of many on this trip.   Here is where my excitement begins . . . YOU SHOULD SEE THIS NEW PLACE (just please leave a room open for me)!  Hotel Seacrest ~ absolutely, without a doubt, is AMAZING!!!  Do you remember when I said you get what you pay for?  You will get far, far, more than what you could ever imagine.  Please keep in mind I have stayed in outstanding places where I was simply a paying customer
- here, I was a guest in this beautiful boutique and what a pleasure it was!  

We arrived early afternoon and were welcomed with that ever present warmth of the sun and our ride to Hotel Seacrest.  Within a short time we were transported to the most luxurious establishment in what I call - Bliss!  Tropical landscaping, a crystal clear pool in a beautifully designed courtyard with stylish loungers, seating areas, and our poolside room.  Welcome to the King Suite in which I will tell you is definitely made for a king! 

Luxurious linens with textiles professionally sewn differently for each of the available five designer rooms.  Travertine marble flooring, granite countertops (complete with glass cook tops), custom headboards, a refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave, dishware, cookware and utensils, a wine rack and even an ice bucket.  The rooms are beautifully furnished from the tables to the lamps, an alarm clock with I-phone docking,
cd/dvd players and individual air conditioners with remotes.  Walking into the bathroom I discovered the shower from my dreams of open glass with mosaic tile and rain heads complete with luxurious soft and plentiful towels.  I should mention that this vacation surprisingly took place during the Super Bowl - but no worries for my husband was elated with the 46” wall mounted flat-screen LCD swivel television! 

In opting not to rent a vehicle, I couldn’t had been more happy to see that truly everything was within walking distance and sight.  Down the street for groceries along with shops for liquor, salons, restaurants, ice-cream, a drugstore, dollar store, donuts, subs and more.  Down the other street was our ocean and I commend the city on what a wonderful job they did with their public areas.  At the entrance of the beach you have beautiful landscaping, Adirondack chairs with umbrellas and even pavilions, each complete with water towers to wash the sand from you.  What a wonderful place to sit, have a cup of coffee and just watch the world go by.

By evening we decided for a quiet evening in with a simple meal, and imagine our delight to sit poolside within this lovely lit oasis.  We were transported with the beauty of their state of the art pool glowing in its LED light show and the graceful in-ground fountains flowing into the pool.  The white lights dappled the landscaping making for a perfect evening, and each evening thereafter!

Our first evening out to relax beachside was a quick walk to Aruba Beach Café.  With seating right on the beach, there didn’t seem to be a better way to start our vacation than with a Hawaiian Cosmopolitan ~ a wonderful mix of Sky Pineapple Vodka, Triple Sec and Cranberry Juice, Caribbean Conch Chowder (a spicy tomato based soup with conch, vegetables and corn, Pizza San Remo (a 12” white cheese pizza with mozzarella, goat cheese and roma tomatoes) and Bimini Bread with Aruba Glaze served with shipped honey butter.  Let’s just say this trip was definitely going in the right direction!

Now we were ready for the street music and stopped at Ocean 101 for a cocktail located on a busy corner 50 yards from the fishing pier.  Sporting a huge indoor/outdoor bar, a beautiful indoor fish tank and waterfalls this was perfect for people watching and listening to music
before venturing back to one of the most restful sleeps in our heavenly Sterns and Foster bed and it’s luxurious linens - did I mention the 600 thread sheet count and freshly laundered and hand steamed?!

After a perfect week of rest, relaxation, lots of sight seeing, walks, breakfast while sitting in the open air at our private patio,  

we decided to end our last outing at Athena By The Sea, a Mediterranean Greek restaurant that also serves American choices in a beautifully newly renovated open air restaurant.

Starting with a pitcher of their homemade Sangria with fermenting fruit
overnight, Saganaki (flaming cheese) with pita bread, Zucchini Strips, Lamb Kabobs over rice and my husband - Spaghetti and Keftedes (Meatballs).  I know, so not Greek - but the meatballs were a meal on their own.    

Excellent service and I was impressed that when I had stopped by earlier and spoken with Luciana that she remembered me several hours later and was a wonderful waitress.  Every empty dish was promptly removed and everyone there seemed to pitch in and help one another.  I also was impressed that our leftovers were removed from the table and packaged up and returned to us.  

Note to self - at several restaurants, although it states that a 18% service gratuity will be added to parties of 10 or more, I did notice many times that our gratuity already added into our bill.  Needless to say, I think I may have made a couple happy waitresses.

To get around easier, the city offers a free community shuttle, the Pelican Hopper with hours of operation Monday thru Friday 9 AM to 5:25 PM (although their flyer states 8:30 AM to 5 PM), Saturday 10 AM to 7:55 PM, and Sunday 8 AM to 6 PM  visit their website for further information and for their map and timetable.

Lauderdale By The Sea is definitely for me.  It’s quaint and quiet.  It’s easily accessible and being a walker, a perfect location.  I don’t usually write about my personal travels, but this was such an experience that I
had to share with you.  The owners at Hotel Seacrest have done an extraordinary job in remodeling this hidden gem along with their amazing personal service.  Would I look further into staying someplace else on my next visit?  Absolutely not!  Visiting here with the beauty, outstanding customer service, cutting edge and luxury perfectly mixed together - it’s like being transported to that “Bliss” and I can’t wait to visit again!  Our many thanks for such a wonderful and memorable trip!!!

Here's a sneak peak into another room.  Be sure to visit Hotel Seacrest for even more amazing photos and booking information!

Bon Voyage ~ Amy