My Favorite Places ... Let The Travels Begin!
I became a worldwide traveler at a young age thanks to my time in the military. Since leaving the military I have continued to travel on my own. I have a love for traveling and my hope is to be able to retire within the next 10 years from the conventional work force. Once I retire, I plan to move abroad for a few years and be home-based in Marseille, France. I will write novels, do freelance writing, and travel Europe and Africa. Travel writer perhaps? Not sure the world needs another travel writer.
The below cities are my top 5 places that I have visited and plan on visiting again. I am going to share a little about each of these wonderful places with the hopes of encouraging you to get your travel on as well.
Bali, Indonesia - Bali is an Indonesian island located just 8 degrees south of the equator. It is breathtakingly beautiful and a popular destination for honeymoons and those looking for great resorts. The weather is pretty warm all year long, pretty hot on some days. During the day you can hike a volcano, surf, do a jungle excursion, or visit ancient temples or palaces. I spent a lot of time relaxing on the beach during the day. The nightlife is nice with great dining, dance clubs, bars, and moonlit walks. I also spent a lot of nights dancing it up.
Corfu, Greece - Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. I fell in love with Greece, Corfu in particular, although I never developed a taste for Ouzo, which seemed to be everywhere. I became a greek food fan (yummy lamb gyros on the street) and enjoyed the shopping experience. I bought lots of lavender scented goods. I found Corfu to be both stunning with amazing views from all points of the island and wondrous with all of the Greek mythology. The Mediterranean weather is wonderful and warm and the setting is romantic. Definitely worth a return visit.
Mallorca, Spain - Mallorca is a Spanish island and all I can say is "PARTY". Actually I did all of my fun-having in Palma, which is a city on the island. I nearly had enough fun to last a lifetime in Mallorca. It is beautiful, and fun, and made me feel a little wild. I spent my days sipping daiquiris on the beach, swimming, and parasailing. I spent my nights dancing up a storm and flirting with an endless parade of really cute guys. Ahh to be young. My return will be somewhat tamer...somewhat.
Marseille, France - I love, love, love Marseille, which is why I will be moving there. Marseille is a port city in the south of France. It is France's second largest city behind Paris. I like Paris as well but Marseille is slightly slower and gives me better access for all of the European travel I plan on doing. Plus the cost of living in Marseille is very reasonable. Marseille is a lovely city by the sea with wonderful Mediterranean climate. It is also a very culturally diverse city and many people speak English. I used to be fluent in French but not so much anymore. Before moving there I plan on regaining my fluency as well as learning passable German. I picture my future self seated at an outside cafe reading a book and sipping a cafe au lait.
Napa Valley, California - Yes I am aware that Napa is neither foreign nor exotic like the others on the list, but that does not make me love it any less. I love great wine and great food and Napa has both. Plus I am a California girl and it's a relatively short trip to get away to a nice B&B in Napa. There's some really good French restaurants located in Napa, some very pricey ones too. For me, Napa Valley is romantic and relaxing. If one doesn't feel romantic and relaxed in this locale, you are doing something wrong or you are with the wrong person.
This is my past and my future travels. Life is too short, and although we all have the what ifs, and the shoulda coulda lists, I am doing my best to keep my list short. Live your life with few regrets and missed opportunities. You are not getting any younger and time will not wait for you.
Side Note: Ouzo is a distilled alcohol beverage that tastes like black licorice. Yuck!
Lucid Dreams...Dream A Little Dream, And Then Control It
I have always been quite the dreamer, but lately I am experiencing something completely new to me. I have become aware that I am a lucid dreamer. Lucid dreams are very fascinating to me.
Lucid dreams are dreams where the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming, and may be able to exert some degree of control over the dream characters, narrative, and environment. Sounds pretty amazing right?!
I have been experiencing lucid dreams quite frequently lately. It is not intentional, and I can not actually pinpoint when it started happening. In fact, when I started to research and find out more information about my odd dreams, I found guides on how to actually have lucid dreams.
And then I had the "duh" moments with the realization that one of my favorite movies Inception is based on lucid dreaming.
I realize that the lucid dream concept is very cool to some, and maybe weird to others, and I will provide you with some tips to lucid dreaming if you are interested. I know that in my lucid dreams I feel very aware. I am looking around for people, imagining their faces, and they appear.
I can imagine a place, and suddenly I am there. Surprisingly I do not feel any less rested the mornings after a night of lucid dreaming, than I do on mornings after nights of regular dreaming. I dream just about every night, and I remember many of my dreams.
Tips for Lucid Dreaming...
Be tired when you go bed
Believe you can lucid dream
Sleep in a cool, to cold room
Sleep in a dark room
Push through in your dreams
Meditate
Increase self awareness
Use self hypnosis
Keep a dream journal
I hope you find these tips helpful. There is a lot more information out there on lucid dreaming. This is not junk science or a hippie concept. If you have the ability to dream, then you have the ability to have lucid dreams.
In all honesty, I basically go to bed tired, and can lucid dream. I am now able to do it more frequently because I know, and believe that I can. You can do it too. It's really cool what we can do with our minds. You just need to relax and believe it.
What are your thoughts on lucid dreaming? Does it sound weird, cool, or scary? Are you able to lucid dream? Please share your thoughts, your experience, and your recommendations!
"All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream." - Edgar Allen Poe
Christmas Gift Ideas For Kids
Christmas is almost here, and if you haven’t started shopping, it is time to get going. Kids are probably the easiest to shop for for Christmas presents. They are usually pretty decisive in what they want, and are not hard to please. And if all else fails, go for Play-Doh, Legos, slime, or Hot Wheels. Target, Wal-Mart, and of course Amazon are the best go to places for toys for kids.
Just like adults, I still recommend that you get a Christmas list from the children in your life. If they can talk and walk, they know what they want. Now, if you are not using a list, you need to take the child's age into consideration. But just know that a gift card can ultimately still be a great gift at any age, because they will get to go to the store, and pick out a toy, or game of their choosing. Score!
For young girls, baby dolls and Barbies are still top choices. But also don't forget about Lalaloopsies, American Girl dolls, and Shopkins. Shopkins are traded on the school yard, and can be very hard to come by. My daughter has over a hundred, and carrying cases for them.
For young boys I recommend Star Wars toys, action figures, Legos, Nerf guns, and Pokemon cards. The boys love to trade these cards at school as well. Is your little guy a gamer yet? If you are feeling very generous you can spring for an XBOX One X for around $500, or for half the cost go for a Playstation Pro.
Both boys and girls will likely want bikes, skateboards, scooters, and sports gear. I also recommend board and card games for those rainy days, and forced family fun. The classics such as Monopoly, Uno, Yahtzee, and cards are still a hit with my family on game nights.
Those are my suggestions for kids. I hope you found this helpful. Let me know if you have any additional ideas. Please share!
The Gift of Giving...Paying It Forward Is More Rewarding Than I Ever Imagined
Many people are charitable, and choose to give in their own way. There is no one way to help others, or to be a kind, giving person. I know that when it comes to charitable giving, my passions are charities involving children and women in underdeveloped countries.
I wanted to share with you all my favorite charities in hopes of encouraging, inspiring, and thanking you for being willing to help others.
Here are my favorite ways to give...
Kiva
Kiva is a global lending program. They are micro-loans, usually in increments of $25, to help small businesses get off the ground. Many people come together to help fund a loan for a stranger, in a foreign land, and hopefully, help them change their life for the better.
The beauty of Kiva is that the loan is repaid over time, and you can re-loan the same $25 to help someone else. www.kiva.org
DonorsChoose.org
Donors Choose is a wonderful way to help teachers and classrooms across the United States to fund special classroom projects, and improve the learning experience for children. You can choose a local school or any school, anywhere of your choosing to help. Log in to see where the need is. It takes very little money to make a big difference. www.DonorsChoose.org
Heifer International
Heifer prides itself on helping to lift families out of poverty. As another global charity, your donations can be monetary, or you can purchase livestock that goes directly to villages. My girls and I choose to purchase goats, which are $120, and flocks of chicks $20, and flocks of hope $60. There are many options to help with this charity. www.Heifer.org
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Last, but not least is St. Jude. I have been giving to St. Jude for about as long as I realized children could have cancer. You can give a one time donation to St. Jude, or set up an allotment. This charity in particular is a heartbreaker for me, and one that probably means the most. www.stjude.org
Whether your motivation to give is from the heart, for bragging rights, or for the tax deductions I care not. I do not think the recipients could care less either. If you donate time, money, or food and clothes, it is all valuable, and appreciated. The benefits are the same regardless.
Do you think charitable givings are important? Do you worry that your donations will be misused?
The A-Ha Moments in Life...
We all have that moment, or moments, in life when things suddenly become clear to us. The moment when we discover who we are, what we want, and where we need to be. To me, the aha moment is liken to an awakening, or a rebirth.
Aha moment is defined as a sudden realization, inspiration, insight, recognition, or comprehension. It can happen at any time.
The last few months have been filled with aha moments for me, and with those moments have come inner peace, and happiness.
I believe the key to aha moments is inward reflection. I had to ask myself what I really wanted, why I wanted it, and what was I willing to do to get it, and to keep it.
Aha moments apply to so many things in life. It can be about the creation of an invention. The moment you finally figure out how to make that one thing work. Or the moment you master math. It can even be the moment you realize it's over, and it is time to move on.
The aha moments can be happy, sad, exhilarating, or anxiety inducing, but either way you had your realization. And now you can move forward.
Heading into 2018 is a more goal oriented, and driven Charlene. I temporarily allowed myself to become distracted, and less focused, which is out of character for me. The year of 2017 was full of uncharacteristically bad decisions, mainly with people.
The aha moments have arrived, and I plan to let some people who do not deserve to be in my life go, and write my heart out all of 2018.
What was your aha moment of 2017? How will it impact your 2018?
There are things that we don't want to happen but we have to accept, things we don't want to know but we have to learn, and people we can't live without but we have to let go. - Unknown Author
Christmas Gift Ideas For Her
Oh the joys of Christmas, and gift buying. Well if you read my blog about "Christmas Gift Ideas For Him", then you already know a few things. First, you know nothing beats gift cards for the difficult to shop for. Second, always ask for Christmas lists. Third, have a gift theme for an added surprise.
Pampering will usually be a winner. When I suggest the gift of pampering, I mean a massage, manicure, pedicure, or a nice facial. A spa day would be a nice choice for the wife.
For the lady in your life who loves to cook I recommend Le Creuset cookware. Le Creuset is pricey but it is by far my favorite cookware. The skillets and pots are cast iron, sturdy, and of the highest quality.
Maybe your lady love loves to curl up with a good book. Get her a tablet for reading, a collector’s edition of her favorite book, or a journal to log all of the books she has read.
Last, but not least is scents. If your girl is anything like me she has a signature scent, that go-to perfume. Snoop around if you have to, but think about her smell. Is it citrusy or flowery? Does it remind you of fresh laundry, or the ocean? With that thought in mind head to Sephora, or Macy’s, and find the scent that you would love to smell on her.
So those are my ideas on gifts for her. Get to shopping boys. Time is running out. Christmas is almost here!
Christmas Gift Ideas For Him
It’s that time of year again, and Christmas shopping for family and friends can be stressful, and nerve racking to say the least. While this blog will be full of gift suggestions for your man, your dad, and even your brother, I always think the best way to go is to request a gift list from your loved ones. This is common practice in my family, for adults and kids alike. This ensures gift satisfaction since they are getting exactly what they asked for. The below recommendations are just to add an element of surprise, and wow factor to your special one’s day.
The key to great gift giving is knowing your loved one well, but let’s be honest, some people are just difficult to shop for. For the guy who doesn’t know what he wants, or does not “need” anything, go the gift card route. Get him a gift card to his favorite store, and call it a day.
If your fella has hobbies then I suggest a bundle of gifts with that theme. If he loves to golf, I recommend golf balls, tees, gloves, hat, and a nice trunk locker bag for him to organize his stuff. If he is a hiker or camper I suggest you hit up REI and go crazy, no seriously. For the hiking/camping bundle I suggest hat, sunblock, ready to eat meals, warm socks, sleeping bag, and tent night lights.
For the "manly man" go for grill stuff or liquor. ManCrates.com has some of cutest gift ideas around for men. A ManCrate is basically a gift basket of meats, nuts, grill stuff and many other themes, but the cool factor is that it comes in a small crate and crowbar to pry it open with. Now if your guy is a scotch drinker, a good gift bundle idea would be a nice bottle of scotch, a decanter for it, and two scotch glasses that are customized with his initials.
Lastly, let’s not forget the sports lover. I would recommend ball caps, tee shirts, and jerseys of his favorite team. If you could get your hands on some sports memorabilia, or playoff tickets that would make his year.
I am really big on Christmas, and giving in general. It makes me happy to try to find new and exciting ways to surprise my loved ones, and show them how much they mean to me. How do you do it with your family and friends? Do you wing it, asks for lists, or just do gift cards? Please share your advice and experience!
The Slow Burn Romantic Chemistry...Hot Or Hot Mess?
I am a total romantic, and nothing gets me better than the slow burn. The slow burn is the unexpected budding of romantic feelings between two people over a period of time. The slow burn relationship usually starts off very platonic, and then like a switch something changes.
The slow burn theme is very common in romance and suspense novels, and television series because the build up, and the "will they, won't they" question creates excitement for the readers and viewers.
Plus, there is the correlation to life, and how the slow burn seems to be the recipe for long term happiness and relationship longevity.
Here’s my list of television shows with stand out slow-burn romantic chemistry.
FEATURED VIDEO
Slow Burn Romance In Television
Mulder/Scully - The X-Files
Ross/Demelza - Poldark
Any Vampire Series
Jack/Kate/Sawyer - Lost
Lady Mary/Matthew - Downton Abbey
Phryne/Jack - Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (Epic Slow Burn)
Archer/Lana Kane - Archer
Rick/Michonne - The Walking Dead
Jim/Pam - The Office
As much as the slow burn appeals to many people, the actually consummation seems to be a buzz kill. Many shows lose their steam after the slow burn couple gets together. Is it because the slow burn is fantasy and romantic, but with a relationship comes struggles.
Is it possible some of the relationship pitfalls and struggles can be avoided if the transition from crushes to lovers is handled carefully?
The slow burn is special because the foundation of the relationship is not based on appearance or sex, but genuine fondness and chemistry that grew into more. The scary thing, and the undeniable hotness about the slow burn, is the build up. The build up of wanting more, and wanting each other.
Over time, the desire for things to be out in the open is there, but there is also an element of fear. A fear that maybe you will not live up to each other’s fantasies. A fear that you will be disappointed, or even worse, that you will disappoint them. Highly unlikely with the slow burn chemistry, but still a very realistic fear.
I have had experience with a slow burn, and I would use three words to describe the feelings: complicated, intense, giddy. It catches you by surprise, and then it becomes all you can think about.
I truly believe that the slow burn flame never goes out. It may not always burn with the same intensity as it did when first ignited, but depending on those involved, I firmly believe the smolder is there to stay.
What are your thoughts on the slow burn? Any slow burn experience? If so, did you go for it or stay put? Please share your story or experience!
“Hard to sit here and be close to you, and not kiss you.” - F. Scott Fitzgerald
Massages...Do You Have A Gender Preference For Your Masseuse?
I love getting massages. They are relaxing and therapeutic. I get a massage as often as I can, which is still not frequent enough. While planning an upcoming spa trip, which includes a massage, the topic came up of gender preference for the masseuse.
Personally, I prefer a female masseuse and I will explain why. I have had massages with males in the past, and with a couple of them I became uncomfortable because their hands seemed to be trying to slowly head towards areas that most definitely did not need massaging. I know there are plenty of male and female masseuses that are professional and appropriate, but after those questionable experiences, why would I make myself uncomfortable when the goal is to relax?
I asked men and women in my life if they had a gender preference and the responses were mixed. Most of the males felt they might feel more comfortable with a female masseuse, but also felt they might choose a male if they wanted a massage with more intense pressure. Some of the ladies did not have a preference, but said they always seemed to be paired with females. One also said she had an experience similar to mine, with the uncomfortably massage with a male masseuse. Sorry guys but I'll pass on the opposite sex massage services.
During a massage, you are alone in a room with a stranger, and you are only wearing a towel, and maybe panties. It is very important to feel safe and comfortable with the experience. Of course, a funny thought always comes to mind when I see a woman come out of a massage with a male masseuse, and that is Sex and the City. I will not say what happens, but check out the very talented, and beloved masseuse in episode "Attack of the Five Foot Ten Woman". All I can say is what the what! HI-larious!
In all seriousness, with recent news events, I highly recommend you choose very carefully where, and with whom you get a massage.
Favorite Color...What Does Your Favorite Color Say About You?
What is your favorite color? Everyone has a favorite color. We love certain colors because of how they make us feel, thoughts they bring, and even how they make us look.
Most of us never really think about why we like a certain color, and if asked to explain the preference one might actually struggle for an answer.
I know when my daughter asked me why I loved my favorite color I found it almost indescribable, because it was a feeling.
I am drawn to my favorite color instinctively, picking paint colors, clothing, and decorations without even realizing the similarities.
I find the psychology behind our favorite colors so fascinating I thought to dedicate a blog to the topic. I want to break it down by colors and what those colors say about those who love them.
I am going to use the primary colors, as well as a few others I believe to be very popular.
Here’s What Your Favorite Color Says About You
Red
Much like the color red, you are vibrant. You have a zest for life, and live it to the fullest. Red lovers are also very passionate and determined.
Blue
Those who favor blue are reliable, confident, and strong. Much like the ocean, blue lovers can be calm, cool, and stormy, but they value stability above all.
Orange
Much like the red lover, the orange lover is bold, friendly, and outgoing. They are also cravers of attention.
Yellow
The yellow lovers are knowledge seekers and generally happy people. They are intelligent and love to learn new things.
Green
Inspired by nature, the green lovers are consistent, loyal, affectionate, and generous. This color lover places high regard on self-worth and reputation.
Black
The black lover is artistic, moody, strong-willed, and determined. They can also be demanding, and somewhat closed off to others.
So there you have a very simple breakdown of our color preferences and a description of how that color preference may reflect who we are as individuals. It seems a bit odd and makes sense to me all at the same time. I find that the color analysis is spot on for me.
You will often find me wearing black. Black is simple, classic, slimming, and goes with everything. It is a close second to my favorite color. In case you are wondering my favorite color is blue. I like many shades of blue, but I prefer a rich, dark blue with a slight hint of gray.
What is your favorite color? Does the color analysis correctly describe your personality? Please share your thoughts!
“Blue has no dimensions, it is beyond dimensions, whereas the other colours are not … All colours arouse specific associative ideas, psychologically material or tangible, while blue suggests at most the sea and sky, and they, after all, are in actual, visible nature what is most abstract.” – Yves Klein