tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25694883687876171022024-02-20T00:07:10.802-08:00Artistpoint 360°Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-62132167195251998042013-12-21T14:25:00.000-08:002013-12-21T14:25:25.504-08:00Alderbrook Resort: Profiled Destination<span style="font-size: large;">Alderbrook Resort - A Quick Getaway from Seattle</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's no wonder that while vacationing at <a href="http://www.alderbrookresort.com/about/" target="_blank">Alderbrook</a>, you'll find that among the area's neighbors are Bill Gates and other Microsofties. With its top notch accommodations in a pristine natural setting, an outdoor enthusiast playground, along with city amenities of a beautiful indoor atrium swimming pool and full spa, this two hour getaway gets you in the rest and recreation mood very quickly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What I like best about Alderbrook is its natural setting. Equipped with the gorgeous views of the Olympic mountains and glacier waters, it's hard not to fall in love with this place. We came here during Spring break in April and was blessed with sporadic sun, typical of the Pacific Northwest. We were able to enjoy the views from the beach, as well as when we swam without crowds in the warm large indoor pool. With a full dock and water recreation at your finger tips, this resort is best enjoyed during the summer months. One can rent kayaks and board the Lady Alderbrook for a tour of the Hood Canal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">From Seattle, you board a <a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/" target="_blank">ferry</a> to take you to Alderbrook. The short 30 minute ferry ride is no-frills, so come with your own coffee, drinks and snacks. Nevertheless, it's an adventure whenever you take a ferry. Like some magical pixie dust, boarding a ferry seems to calm one's senses and takes you onto a journey mind set.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alderbrook offers an on-site restaurant, and the lodge rooms do not come with a kitchen, so one just needs to pack the basic casual weekend wear, and some food and beverage to snack on. The drawback of one restaurant is simply one menu. As a family vacationing, a small kitchenette would have come in handy, for quick bites in between main meals in the dining room, and to save extensively, as their food outside the kids menu is a bit pricey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The highlight of our Spring break was the fresh <a href="http://whatscookingamerica.net/GrilledOysters.htm" target="_blank">oysters</a> caught within minutes, and barbequed on the lawns by the cottages. During the week, the staff has a complimentary oyster tasting in the early evening, under the canopied patio. My kids who see me savor oysters whenever I get a chance, was tempted to try them for the very first time. They loved this delicacy, especially as the chef just caught them on board her boat, and immediately placed them on the grill. The butter garlic dip was their favorite.</span><br />
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<br />Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-62475282504276948772013-02-13T14:21:00.000-08:002013-12-21T14:15:44.546-08:00Dreaming of Infinity pools<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The weather in Seattle has me dreaming of infinity pools, and getting away from the cold and gray. For starters, Seattle has the Four Seasons Hotel with its rooftop pool. But, if you're looking into exotic locales, some of the stunning venues include big cities of Hong Kong and Tokyo; the natural beauty of Utah; and the beaches of Maui and Cote d'Azur.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Aloha<span style="font-size: large;">! </span>A tranquil place to relax and swim is at the Four Season Resort Wailea in Maui, which is listed on the Best Hotel list on US News. Situated 53 feet above Wailea Bay, you'll be singing Pearly Shells in no time.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.travel.usnews.com/images/hp/61/26920/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maui_at_Wailea_usn_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://static.travel.usnews.com/images/hp/61/26920/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maui_at_Wailea_usn_1.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of US News</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Can you say Cote d'Azur? In English, it's the French Riviera. It seems anything French sound even more enticing and beautiful. This infinity pool has been dynamited off a cliff face, and overlooks the Mediterranean. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Mix a bit of sushi and the latest Japanese trends, and slip into the city scape of the infinity pool of the Park Hyatt Tokyo. You'll also glimpse Mt. Fuji from the 47th floor of this pool. The movie 'Lost in Translation' was filmed at this hotel.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of elanpanache.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Imagine you're on Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong, with piped in underwater music. You're at the 3rd floor pool of the InterContinental Hotel, viewing the grand skyline of Asia, alongside junks and ships.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s.startle.com/img/properties/Property_IntercontinentalHongKong_HongKong_Hotel_Pool_creditIntercontinentalHongKong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s.startle.com/img/properties/Property_IntercontinentalHongKong_HongKong_Hotel_Pool_creditIntercontinentalHongKong.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of startle.com</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Take a pit stop from hiking, and dip in the Amangiri pool of south Utah. Overlooking the Giant Staircase Escelanti National Park, this infinity pool is open 24 hours a day. Amangiri translates to Peaceful Mountain, and being surrounded in this natural beauty will keep you at peace among your surroundings.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blacktomato.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/The-swimming-pool-at-the-Amangiri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.blacktomato.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/The-swimming-pool-at-the-Amangiri.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of blacktomato.com</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now that my visual vacation is at its end, I think this Seattlelite will check in at the Four Seasons Hotel, just steps away from the famous Pike Place Market. <span style="font-size: large;">Dipped in the infinity pool, </span>one can view Puget Sound, the frequent ferries, and the snow capped Olympic mountains.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.oyster.com/seattle/hotels/four-seasons-hotel-seattle/photos/pool--v828164-79-720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.oyster.com/seattle/hotels/four-seasons-hotel-seattle/photos/pool--v828164-79-720.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of oyster.com</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-46060639354711183332013-02-06T18:17:00.000-08:002013-12-21T14:17:55.046-08:00Victoria, BC: Profiled destination<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">Victoria,
BC, is a</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">n easy
Seattle getaway to see all things English. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 21px;">Since the
Summer Olympics in London, our family has been enticed by all things English.
We long for high tea, beautiful gardens, and hearing the charming English
accent.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.brentwood.bc.ca/uploads/pics/victoria_bc_waterfront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.brentwood.bc.ca/uploads/pics/victoria_bc_waterfront.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfront view of Victoria. Courtesy of <span class="irc_iis" id="irc_hd"><a class="irc_itl" data-ved="0CAQQjB0" href="http://www.brentwood.bc.ca/about-brentwood/oceanfront-campus.html" id="irc_hol"><span id="irc_ho">www.brentwood.bc.ca</span></a><span id="irc_dim"> </span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4Ma4xLby_ruSXri74Bz0zB8bzjVgMWyWxA_UK14GyqTNvHnkzZfaGw-AFlObhkAy5Usw8P4rwPvVmfjN8LLzfHp-am0MOZNj9NO0xY7G2NJ2dpr9OImJKhTorXGIENxv87EJ_iiCgY0/s1600/IMG_3005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4Ma4xLby_ruSXri74Bz0zB8bzjVgMWyWxA_UK14GyqTNvHnkzZfaGw-AFlObhkAy5Usw8P4rwPvVmfjN8LLzfHp-am0MOZNj9NO0xY7G2NJ2dpr9OImJKhTorXGIENxv87EJ_iiCgY0/s320/IMG_3005.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCmYS7s_S0LmgvWW-O40bIZxiXFR2NxqbUeUoRIwL9_BxUy9LFjHjwOR1HbEVfSWEcJmLPzJvzfyvjCYYS5Bsw1Px926G_Vc1-jiPSQ000neU38dHQcFki_wiC-RLJ9wl0duhOfrQHr1Y/s1600/IMG_3010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCmYS7s_S0LmgvWW-O40bIZxiXFR2NxqbUeUoRIwL9_BxUy9LFjHjwOR1HbEVfSWEcJmLPzJvzfyvjCYYS5Bsw1Px926G_Vc1-jiPSQ000neU38dHQcFki_wiC-RLJ9wl0duhOfrQHr1Y/s320/IMG_3010.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">For our
New Year’s Eve family getaway, we headed to Victoria, located on Vancouver Island, the
capital of Canada’s British Columbia province. From Seattle, our journey took 5 ½ hours by car and ferry. With the climate of Victoria similar to Seattle, our packing consisted of the same clothing we'd wear at home (translation: layers), with the addition of a swimsuit for the hotel swimming pool.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">You’ll
avoid the airport and all the security hassles, by taking the ferry from
Seattle to cross Puget Sound, and driving to Port Angeles to catch another
ferry to Victoria. A quicker option is flying on a seaplane. Both options give
you a wonderful vantage point to see snow capped mountains over a serene water
view. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">You can
choose to take your car on the ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, or be a walk-on passenger, and lessen your carbon footprint. Victoria is a
pedestrian friendly city, with many shops and restaurants near hotels and B&B's, that a car is not necessary.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">Upon
arriving in Victoria, we headed to the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel for our
high tea. We left our bags with the porter, as our room was not yet ready, as we arrived at 10am. We decided to walk around and discover the
treasures of this historical hotel. We saw British royalty, along with
Hollywood celebrities, in black and white portraits displayed throughout
the hotel. During the holidays, many themed Christmas trees were on display as
part of a fundraiser, along with a majestic two-story Christmas tree at the Empress lobby.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHvILXYxKH3lek9zHZISLIyezjsL81Zhez2TAVNnNaVjA9lmy4aYzCV_KBiab83Yy4QnPBLyVwKGLEwpGFaPGRKhxNskfsijVq2F5sytC2zaa0wdsS0nfPURqR0zGW_8G3QoefKT9Xlw/s1600/IMG_2985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHvILXYxKH3lek9zHZISLIyezjsL81Zhez2TAVNnNaVjA9lmy4aYzCV_KBiab83Yy4QnPBLyVwKGLEwpGFaPGRKhxNskfsijVq2F5sytC2zaa0wdsS0nfPURqR0zGW_8G3QoefKT9Xlw/s400/IMG_2985.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">The high
tea had a kid-friendly option of a “Princess” assortment of tea sandwiches and
treats. The girls received a certificate verifying their princess status at the end of our tea session. The adult version was delectable. I
especially liked the egg salad croissant sandwich and my all time favorite
Earl Grey tea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">To get more "English" in our trip, we visited the tourist attraction of Butchart Gardens.
Although many of the foliage were not in bloom, it was nevertheless a beautiful
place to visit. When the sun went down, the elaborate display of lights
throughout the massive gardens was impressive. In Seattle, we have the Bellevue
Botanical Gardens, which is a quarter of the size, but, with comparable light
displays. What made Butchart Gardens memorable were the themed Italian gardens
and the indoor old-fashioned carousel, which I have not seen elsewhere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.royalscot.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Christmas_at_the_4d9939db41fcb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.royalscot.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Christmas_at_the_4d9939db41fcb.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of www.royalscot.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">Although we
didn’t hear the delightful English accent, we did hear the lovely Canadian
accent. And, we sampled the wonderful cuisine that Victoria had to offer. At Il Terrazzo, we had an Italian prix-fixe meal. We were able to get the last seating available for a New Year's Eve dinner, thanks to the great service offered of the President's Club membership at the Fairmont. Not only did the restaurant have a very nice ambience, it scored #3 on Trip Advisor for Victoria's restaurants. We had a choice from 15+ entrees, and a
very accommodating staff, who catered to our kids by offering a discounted menu, resulting in big savings for us, as the adult fee was $100 a plate. Our family enjoyed seeing other families dining with us.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">We had a
nice and carefree vacation before school resumed for the new year, feeling refreshed
and rejuvenated, and fulfilled of our English attractions. It’s a good thing we
have PBS’s Downton Abbey to sustain us until our next trip to Victoria.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www-deadline-com.vimg.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/downton__121123192218-275x215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www-deadline-com.vimg.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/downton__121123192218-275x215.jpg" height="312" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="irc_iis" id="irc_hd"><a class="irc_itl" data-ved="0CAQQjB0" href="http://www.deadline.com/tag/downton-abbey/" id="irc_hol"><span id="irc_ho">Courtesy of www.deadline.com</span></a><span id="irc_dim"></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-35779176539832400202012-10-23T14:56:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:19:17.363-08:00Italy's Gelato, Siena and Andrea Bocceli<span style="font-size: large;">Th<span style="font-size: large;">e sweet surp<span style="font-size: large;">rises of Italy, f<span style="font-size: large;">rom it's finest gelato, to the fabulous but understated Tuscany city of Siena, and the beautiful tenor <span style="font-size: large;">voice of Andrea Bocceli. The recent opening of the world first <span style="font-size: large;">g</span>elato museum, <a href="http://www.gelatomuseum.com/eng/?page_id=42" target="_blank">The Gelato Museum Carpigiani</a> in the outskirts of Bologna, in Italy's Tuscany region, has <span style="font-size: large;">left me reminiscing about <span style="font-size: large;">Italy's lovely treasures, beyond the typical tourist spots.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">What I remember fondly of my travels to Italy was having gelato almost ev<span style="font-size: large;">ery day. And, why not? With all the walking one<span style="font-size: large;"> does while visiting Italy, it<span style="font-size: large;">'s logical to reward <span style="font-size: large;">yourself with the splendor <span style="font-size: large;">treat of a gelato<span style="font-size: large;">. It's just as refreshing as having a beer on a <span style="font-size: large;">hot summer day, but, even better, because the kids love it too!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb8eHWIyxDNyIXhhQcil6519LJ-3CvIR0tqPtccX3RJwlKoSXTJyO09m1rt9uO5k-yJJHzsgopFQV759x67mPfuY4SMn1gItwXHsdvSLdH3AmltEKiKb0GuNdbe27ltdlgP_rYneIGXyh/s1600/Gelato-Museum-Italy-archi-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb8eHWIyxDNyIXhhQcil6519LJ-3CvIR0tqPtccX3RJwlKoSXTJyO09m1rt9uO5k-yJJHzsgopFQV759x67mPfuY4SMn1gItwXHsdvSLdH3AmltEKiKb0GuNdbe27ltdlgP_rYneIGXyh/s400/Gelato-Museum-Italy-archi-005.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Carpigiani</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of http://www.lesliejerkins.com<a class="profile-name-link" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/11076302256675045071" rel="author" style="background-image: url(//www.blogger.com/img/logo-16.png);">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Did you know that gelato <span style="font-size: large;">was once a symbol of prestige, as its key ingredients of ice and salt were very expensive in the times of the House of Medi<span style="font-size: large;">ci in Florence<span style="font-size: large;">, a power prominent family<span style="font-size: large;"> famed for its power and producing popes. An alchemist and astrologer invented gelato in the 16th century. <span style="font-size: large;">You can learn all about g</span>elato's history, sample <span style="font-size: large;">a<span style="font-size: large;"> bit,</span></span> and learn how to make your own gelato at the Gelato Museum Carpi<span style="font-size: large;">giani</span>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">A lovely surprise <span style="font-size: large;">while touring Tuscany was landing at the Piazza del Campo in Siena. If we didn't have to find a laundry mat, we wouldn't have discovered the uniquely beautiful city, with a square made of red bricks arranged in fishbone style, divided into a sunburst pattern by nine strips of travertine. The construction was in memory of the Gover<span style="font-size: large;">nment of the Nine<span style="font-size: large;">, who ruled Siena from 1292 to 1355.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Siena hosts the famous event of Palio di Siena which is a horse race<span style="font-size: large;">, in which ten <span style="font-size: large;">jockeys race on bareback three times around the piazza, and </span></span>lasts not more than 90 seconds. Pre<span style="font-size: large;">ceeding the Palio is the Corteo Storico, a <span style="font-size: large;">historical costume parade. The Palio takes places during the summer, on July 2 and August 16. The Piazza is also a market filled with wooden Pinocch<span style="font-size: large;">io dolls. We still have the Pinocchio that we bought for my then 2 1/2 year old daughter.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">When I left for Italy, I had a request f<span style="font-size: large;">rom</span> a dear client of mine for the CD of Andrea Bocelli. While in search <span style="font-size: large;">for it, I went <span style="font-size: large;">shopping in the boutiques of Siena. Al<span style="font-size: large;">though I've been to Milan prior to Siena, it was still great fun to shop and see the fashions offered only in Italy and in the boutiques. There were no Benettons there</span> as the<span style="font-size: large;">re were in eve<span style="font-size: large;">ry street corner in Rome.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now that the classical tenor Andrea Bocelli has <span style="font-size: large;">become a house<span style="font-size: large;">hold name in the US, we hear his musi<span style="font-size: large;">c a lot. Every time I hear the song "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nl9WMIPzd6w" target="_blank">Time To Say Goodbye</a>", <span style="font-size: large;">which sol<span style="font-size: large;">d 12 million copies wor<span style="font-size: large;">ldwide, </span></span></span>I am moved and taken back to the delights that an Italian travel could only offer. </span></span></span> </span></span> </span></span> </span></span> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-71231016414034618092012-10-02T11:01:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:21:32.738-08:00Octoberfest: Celebrating in Munich and Leavenworth<span style="font-size: large;">Oktoberfest: A time for Celebrating in Munich or in Leavenworth</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair, lasting for 16 days in Munich, Germany, from late September to the first weekend of October. You can partake in the celebration in its birthplace of Munich, or if in the Pacific Northwest, in the Bavarian town of Leavenworth in Washington State.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Munich</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As an impressionable 19 year old touring Europe for the first time, the Hofbrauhaus was a boisterous venue with good tasting beer, lively music, and the best pretzel in the world. What better way to experience Bavaria, but, to be in Munich!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few highlights of Munich during Oktoberfest include Augustiner<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Keller and Lowenbraukeller. As a traditional beer hall, Augustinerkeller boasts a 5,000 seat beer garden. With a 800 year old history, it's no wonder locals regard their beer as one of the best in the world, and can be found in most bars around Munich.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you want to dress up in the traditional Bavarian wear, head out to Lowenbraukeller, another 800 year old beer hall and garden, and be transported in time. You'll feel like royalty with its medieval castle exterior and tall gothic spire.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Leavenworth</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just a two hour drive outside of Seattle is the Bavarian town of Leavenworth. With more sunshine than Seattle, many locals gravitate towards this lively place during the three weekends of Oktoberfest, but, also for all the outdoor activities, including the beautiful <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/travel/itineraries/where-see-best-fall-foliage-1B5938994" target="_blank">Autumn foliage</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Leavenworth invites both young, old, couples, and families to Oktoberfest. We enjoyed the dancing and music. The kids especially liked the Chicken Dance. As the evening progressed, it became more lively, which signaled families to head back to their hotels.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's best to plan ahead with accommodations, because it really is a good idea to be able to walk back to the hotel. Our favorite go-to hotel, The <a href="http://www.enzianinn.com/history/" target="_blank">Enzian Inn</a>, with its outdoor and indoor pools, ping pong table, and mini-golf was already booked.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you're in Europe, and come hop on the train to head to Munich, or you're in the Pacific Northwest, with <a href="http://artistpoint360.blogspot.com/2011/05/leavenworth-profiled-destination.html" target="_blank">Leavenworth</a> just a few hours drive, Oktoberfest is a celebration not to be missed. With the season changing, and the anticipation of Winter, Oktoberfest in Munich or Leavenworth is a festive way to embrace Autumn. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span> Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-30673072978368038682012-09-18T15:04:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:23:38.809-08:00My Bucket List: 3 Must See Travels.<span style="font-size: large;">I've been asked on several occasions, what my top 3 places to travel. Consistently, I've replied, Machu Picchu in Peru, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Bali, Indonesia. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All three destinations are adventures, and a long journey from Seattle. Why would I want to travel so far? Because Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, and Bali have piqued my interest, as they hold mysteries, histories, and beauty, ready to be grabbed and explored.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let me show you... No need to buy an airline ticket. Enjoy the magical ride with all your senses. Gasp the air at an altitude of 14,000 feet. Feel the splash of a wave in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean. Smile at a monk dressed in bright robes. Taste the exotic food of another country. Touch the soft </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">handwoven</span> fabrics. Dance to a different beat. Feel relaxed from a massage. Wave at the children. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Machu Picchu</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Angkor Wat</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bali</span><br />
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Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-64304022491436337632012-09-04T11:12:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:27:06.044-08:00Ruby Beach: Profiled Destination<span style="font-size: large;">Ruby Beach - Best Beach on the Washington Coast</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ruby Beach along the Washington coastline, and part of the Olympic National Park will surprise you with its spectacular beauty of jagged rock formations, tide pools, endless sandy beach, and windswept trees. You'll find the kid inside of you, as you run along the beach, taking in the breathtaking scenery, while wading in the water or climbing the rocks.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgBqQv5ptHCCSb-zWdMFtGrYXwVA4y9Hon_kxlV6hBfXodjI7mtKY5UkXDat8ly-DWuQpu1Dy7MCgs5WHdpG4F9SMuifhICujJWynOtBTm4tYoaGY00UMAR6l1uoN5ssHOOeRCFEH574/s1600/RubyBeach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgBqQv5ptHCCSb-zWdMFtGrYXwVA4y9Hon_kxlV6hBfXodjI7mtKY5UkXDat8ly-DWuQpu1Dy7MCgs5WHdpG4F9SMuifhICujJWynOtBTm4tYoaGY00UMAR6l1uoN5ssHOOeRCFEH574/s320/RubyBeach.JPG" height="72" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take a day trip from Seattle, or extend your beach time by staying at the nearby Kalaloch Lodge or Cabins, or year-round camp sites at Kalaloch and South Beach. Located along Highway 101, you can approach Ruby Beach by driving south on I-5 to Olympia, Washington's capital and going east to Aberdeen, hometown of Nirvana's Kurt Cobain, and onto Highway 101. An alternative route is by ferry from Edmonds, a suburb of Seattle, to Kingston on Highway 104 to Highway 101. You'll pass by the town of Sequim, known for its lavendar farms and Forks, the Twilight mecca.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If beach combing makes you hungry, have the fresh Penn Cove mussels with infused lemongrass broth at the Kalaloch Lodge Creekside restaurant, and top it with their signature MarionBerry cobbler. Bring your sunscreen, camera, and extra clothes as the kids in all of you will definitely dip in this incredible beach. Disconnect from the world for a little while, as cell phone coverage is limited, although, there is plenty here to keep you occupied.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span> Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-23894628129308376652012-04-10T21:01:00.001-07:002013-12-21T14:28:51.967-08:00City breaks with the Kids Series: San Diego<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxaHD91NwjfVJPtQuHHKcfaY5JxOozdT0ee81fNVEHqpxKGTq-pxAYGw6SrYuQ_nUzf4Is56rBOkAguoFbHocZ47NV9nktK0chA4bFJ4ohjV_0iT047aSORyGBPIed9w2JQeTnNmjAzM/s1600/PB+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxaHD91NwjfVJPtQuHHKcfaY5JxOozdT0ee81fNVEHqpxKGTq-pxAYGw6SrYuQ_nUzf4Is56rBOkAguoFbHocZ47NV9nktK0chA4bFJ4ohjV_0iT047aSORyGBPIed9w2JQeTnNmjAzM/s400/PB+view.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">San Diego, a popular West Coast destination is an easy jaunt from those in the Pacific Northwest, as well as a quick getaway for Californians. With San Diego's beaches, world famous zoo and wildlife park, Hotel del Coronado, a national historical landmark, Titanic Artifact Exhibit, fabulous food, and relaxing vibe, every member of the family will find something to enjoy.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach fun</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boardwalk for walking, skating and biking</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Located along the Pacific Ocean, San Diego is a beautiful place to be active or to relax. One can enjoy a day on the beach playing games by the water, </span><span style="font-size: large;">surfing, </span><span style="font-size: large;">taking walks on the sand, and simply watching passerby's on the boardwalk or the frolicking dolphins. And, the sunsets are unbelievable!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tyjXMhBiUkM0ZTXV1dGAUw4vmIHWvENst5I7gATZwpQS08DhY2ghj4hxkJzc3PmyTKWHHwW0n7L9sF7qEi_PWlCJ7v9tqX63VjJNfc6WBYF0JjDcX0V7heNi089Ta_Swwc6n7fTTrGU/s1600/DSC_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tyjXMhBiUkM0ZTXV1dGAUw4vmIHWvENst5I7gATZwpQS08DhY2ghj4hxkJzc3PmyTKWHHwW0n7L9sF7qEi_PWlCJ7v9tqX63VjJNfc6WBYF0JjDcX0V7heNi089Ta_Swwc6n7fTTrGU/s320/DSC_0304.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our beachfront rental</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our beachfront residence in San Diego was a <a href="http://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/usa/california/san-diego-county" target="_blank">Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBO)</a> condo on Pacific Beach. We were amidst
restaurants from breakfast spots, </span><span style="font-size: large;">taquerias, and trendy restaurants we can walk to</span><span style="font-size: large;">. </span><span style="font-size: large;">If a home made meal was on the agenda, the grocery store
was a few blocks away, as well as plenty of take out places for pizza
and burgers.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> The nightlife at Pacific Beach starts at Happy Hour on the outdoor decks along the boardwalk.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8dbVCYcqdmLOEV0zxgkyLeI9P8W9EAIjRfcbLsbhjVJhHwPp5gBmzFkK37F8JttlT3A1zmkK6dPi7VXsR0qUhACC3YikIZjsgxmzCPyGYB37qYTQaxA174rXMC9LaXCwrUquA6DNnVc/s1600/pb+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8dbVCYcqdmLOEV0zxgkyLeI9P8W9EAIjRfcbLsbhjVJhHwPp5gBmzFkK37F8JttlT3A1zmkK6dPi7VXsR0qUhACC3YikIZjsgxmzCPyGYB37qYTQaxA174rXMC9LaXCwrUquA6DNnVc/s320/pb+sign.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the party zone</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every morning we woke up to the sun, palm trees, and a
temperate climate. With the windows cracked open at night, one can be
soothed to sleep with the sound of the waves.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> The
extra convenience of having a vacation rental is that you can have a
secure parking spot without having to pay the excessive price of a hotel
parking garage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The <a href="http://www.sdnhm.org/exhibitions/current-exhibitions/titanic-the-artifact-exhibition/" target="_blank">Titanic Artifact Exhibit commemorating Titanic's 100th anniversary </a>is currently showing at the San Diego Natural History located in picturesque Balboa Park. It has a wonderful display of artifacts including porcelain china served in the first class dining room, leather luggage, shaving brushes, and beauty cremes. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewdPk8LXs2voie0UEzwVEL5y2f_vGuMfjUEDtjh4AZevHx5N4zpQA20HCp41BSjqhk0UuJ94XsRhVrdFIA7D-NnpUc3fmXo6rK-Z4jAXg-yI877taCT5zT83hFSw6soQDLHdK5FmWhI0/s1600/titanic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewdPk8LXs2voie0UEzwVEL5y2f_vGuMfjUEDtjh4AZevHx5N4zpQA20HCp41BSjqhk0UuJ94XsRhVrdFIA7D-NnpUc3fmXo6rK-Z4jAXg-yI877taCT5zT83hFSw6soQDLHdK5FmWhI0/s320/titanic.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Titanic view outside the exhibit. No photography allowed inside.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the historical Southern Californian gem of <a href="http://www.hoteldel.com/history.aspx" target="_blank">Hotel del Coronado</a>, where US presidents of
past and present have visited, the hotel lobby takes you back into time
with its old fashioned elevators and chandeliers. With the nearby naval base, the restaurants and shops are dotted with military families.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjif8itOw8i5hC53lDn8lip68hWPV9PWcBkfdGxluByjgahRWpOA8DTXwj4xGPB_w2_zD5Om-LphibLA_sGbPf21a7uHfXezZJ0pIz-P_y3ICyUPWmwvbSxYw_OhqBebvW2wjmhG5DEArw/s1600/hotel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjif8itOw8i5hC53lDn8lip68hWPV9PWcBkfdGxluByjgahRWpOA8DTXwj4xGPB_w2_zD5Om-LphibLA_sGbPf21a7uHfXezZJ0pIz-P_y3ICyUPWmwvbSxYw_OhqBebvW2wjmhG5DEArw/s320/hotel.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balmy night strolling the Hotel Del Coronado</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The <a href="http://www.sandiegozoo.org/zoo/index.php" target="_blank">San Diego Zoo</a> and <a href="http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/" target="_blank">San Diego Safari Park</a> will delight both the kids and adults. From the cuddly pandas, the sleepy lions, and lightening fast cheetahs, the animals will captivate you. Make sure to wear your walking shoes, as both venues are vast and lots of walking is required. You can <a href="http://www.sandiegozoo.org/tickets/zootickets.html" target="_blank">buy admission</a> for both venues to maximize your visit and save money.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvf62Jgzn6sYFjHkvZk5pgFM94ox8S4KkbFPS2F8zgPhZevzJqdIvsPF0Ih8Ur48xGGOOPwd6sh21M3CF_C8h9UpVR6tzt5zK7XYLEH2vEk3zeeExeEpuVpbNuQhSg323jHJVHRIoEl0/s1600/DSC_0848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvf62Jgzn6sYFjHkvZk5pgFM94ox8S4KkbFPS2F8zgPhZevzJqdIvsPF0Ih8Ur48xGGOOPwd6sh21M3CF_C8h9UpVR6tzt5zK7XYLEH2vEk3zeeExeEpuVpbNuQhSg323jHJVHRIoEl0/s320/DSC_0848.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panda exhibit at the San Diego Zoo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgeCsoD7bdqLjM3o4YqRFZhxGrX8lRefSpyx0lY5z0n_AhNTOlzXPLO-qN_A6oz-rdJaPejyZGdXRbJB1au_tfD_n2XIeN9qJLOuBFboiytIEi6ZWI7J__7AUGL17-23EE9hmAkQKFln4/s1600/DSC_1006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgeCsoD7bdqLjM3o4YqRFZhxGrX8lRefSpyx0lY5z0n_AhNTOlzXPLO-qN_A6oz-rdJaPejyZGdXRbJB1au_tfD_n2XIeN9qJLOuBFboiytIEi6ZWI7J__7AUGL17-23EE9hmAkQKFln4/s320/DSC_1006.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close with a peacock at the zoo</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZyIITuvLGkIw8UHXBGEpKIyuz4uTmJBOelJ0DhoJ8diiVh50LEJ5D2BsOMlQYtMddUFYwzzkamG6dLut9IPtttmykc6R2elUWnbSrLRu7nPGind06L2hCuwqyUrLWG1yFtrOToNz-qQ/s1600/DSC_0380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZyIITuvLGkIw8UHXBGEpKIyuz4uTmJBOelJ0DhoJ8diiVh50LEJ5D2BsOMlQYtMddUFYwzzkamG6dLut9IPtttmykc6R2elUWnbSrLRu7nPGind06L2hCuwqyUrLWG1yFtrOToNz-qQ/s320/DSC_0380.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the tram on the African Safari at the San Diego Safari Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgJC1f73P11xzwnu5UdPKUqHc87cWMO2DURC6qDqp1ugoSElEu2Squ7HBKpiplZcIefKHFJK6mHCP65G0R8m31tZBsnlL31cnMSDhUXpe7Kw1EohofHI8BOkXmoLGg7yt0oU-1zneWRU/s1600/lion.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgJC1f73P11xzwnu5UdPKUqHc87cWMO2DURC6qDqp1ugoSElEu2Squ7HBKpiplZcIefKHFJK6mHCP65G0R8m31tZBsnlL31cnMSDhUXpe7Kw1EohofHI8BOkXmoLGg7yt0oU-1zneWRU/s320/lion.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy lion on a Range Rover at the Safari Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAq2Pz6_NK_o24PIOw_KppvYL14r8xbX6NKYCcmVsi19QrVVkWSwIjaATr2bltYqF7EEPocInjcTTRUlPD3-k5u79fy2u6T1ByiaL0Td_D0irT8FNoMgGzkL8EA7JpHLPRZUWZwbZUdN4/s1600/DSC_1054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAq2Pz6_NK_o24PIOw_KppvYL14r8xbX6NKYCcmVsi19QrVVkWSwIjaATr2bltYqF7EEPocInjcTTRUlPD3-k5u79fy2u6T1ByiaL0Td_D0irT8FNoMgGzkL8EA7JpHLPRZUWZwbZUdN4/s320/DSC_1054.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flamingos galore at the San Diego Zoo</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The VIP packages at the Safari Park is an
exceptional experience. As a member of a small group of cheetah
participants in a Show and Tell and Question and Answer session, our family was
treated to up close encounters with the wild's fastest animal (going 0 to 70mph in 4 strides). It
truly was a treat and worth the ticket price.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglM8FRBv_Pi30UuUNIxvjMPCE1AEnkiyW24iU4ZCnbkdO5rDxj1web1d9RV18En6OpZK_9jRo-bYv3zMVApAgleRO5E_2oiLQGz83FD5LXGwjepmimoku8kvDnTL9yH-vS0UQOFiaMbuM/s1600/DSC_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglM8FRBv_Pi30UuUNIxvjMPCE1AEnkiyW24iU4ZCnbkdO5rDxj1web1d9RV18En6OpZK_9jRo-bYv3zMVApAgleRO5E_2oiLQGz83FD5LXGwjepmimoku8kvDnTL9yH-vS0UQOFiaMbuM/s320/DSC_0689.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the <a href="http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/planyourtrip/shows.html" target="_blank">Cheetah Run</a> at the Wildlife Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYI97AHf3EVBy2jOoNd_U4aRvk0AsIPLtBAhVj6Ycr3vP3UQyyI9B8peuXzlDsf9XNu_3DeI2YXldGqmMjw5o7d7mddD4TH2H9tfrOTaRtDRlsmKUS5bz_eKvauBXLI2ChBVgj9Y0xIU/s1600/cheetah.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYI97AHf3EVBy2jOoNd_U4aRvk0AsIPLtBAhVj6Ycr3vP3UQyyI9B8peuXzlDsf9XNu_3DeI2YXldGqmMjw5o7d7mddD4TH2H9tfrOTaRtDRlsmKUS5bz_eKvauBXLI2ChBVgj9Y0xIU/s400/cheetah.JPG" height="400" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close with a cheetah at the <a href="http://sdzsafaripark.org/safaritickets/cheetah_safari.html" target="_blank">Cheetah Safari</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On our lunch break in La Jolla, a ten minute drive from San Diego, we were pleasantly surprised by a colony of seals basking on the beach. To top of our San Diego visit, we shopped at La Jolla's boutiques geared for all budgets, and had tasty Oscar cookies at a local cafe to celebrate the award show the following night.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hoXsaYX5VPF4bmKVzFXmEEEOGgr4QmMApgWAGFZ6lEADEkjQ096N_OVjFQUuHN0ejESBNtn9q-i5wSI8mlXIrwP95-yZ4zK71qzJqu8vzhf2TtMmyK6I9tLED0DyaSp8Tp9VhBvxHh0/s1600/oscar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hoXsaYX5VPF4bmKVzFXmEEEOGgr4QmMApgWAGFZ6lEADEkjQ096N_OVjFQUuHN0ejESBNtn9q-i5wSI8mlXIrwP95-yZ4zK71qzJqu8vzhf2TtMmyK6I9tLED0DyaSp8Tp9VhBvxHh0/s320/oscar.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Jolla's local favorite <a href="http://www.girardgourmet.com/" target="_blank">Girard's Deli</a></td></tr>
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Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-18089080749973452342012-02-17T14:23:00.000-08:002013-12-21T14:31:15.314-08:00Pinterest: Adventures in Travel<span style="font-size: large;">I'm one of the recent 10 million+ Pinterest users enjoying the visual vacation that Pinterest allows me in front of my computer. On Pinterest, I began adding pictures of places where I've been to and loved, and of places where I'd like to visit some day. By visiting my </span><span style="font-size: large;">Adventures and Travel Board</span><span style="font-size: large;">, I can get a break from my routine, enjoy a pictorial view of destinations around the globe, without spending a dime.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's take a tour... <a href="http://pinterest.com/rachellewhitman/adventures-travels/">Adventure and Travel Pinterest style</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With the rainy days in Seattle, I can't seem to get Seychelles off my mind. It's a long ways to the Indian Ocean, but, this destination tops my list this winter. Clear blue waters. White sand between your toes. Rock formations. Palm trees. A warm breeze. Can't you just imagine laying on a hammock in this little piece of heaven?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With Valentine's Day this past week, what's one of the most romantic places in the world that comes to mind? Paris of course! I was 18 years old when I first visited Paris, and I will always remember how beautiful the Seine river cruise was during sunset. I said to myself, I'll visit again, either with a lover or a husband. Perhaps I'll plan my next wedding anniversary there. One can only dream...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Daydreaming is almost over. It's winter after all, so to end our time together, I leave you with the beautiful castle of Neuschwanstein, which Walt Disney patterned Cinderella's castle at Disneyland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Read about </span><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/holy-smoke-pinterest-is-the-fastest-growing-site-ever-2012-2">Pinterest</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;">the fastest growing website ever. If you'd like to try out Pinterest, please comment on this blog with your email address, and I would be happy to send you an invitation to join. Au revoir!</span><br />
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Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-41873519719310508892012-02-01T16:18:00.000-08:002013-12-21T14:34:43.630-08:00City breaks with the Kids Series: Seattle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Long weekends and staycations are becoming more popular with travelers. Being a tourist in your own city is a great way to spend time with the family without costing a fortune, or incurring extra vacation days from work. It is also a great way to discover new adventures in your own backyard. Like the photo above, you can participate in a Seafair annual summer celebration in one of Seattle's neighborhoods.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seattle: Taking a look at my own backyard</span><br />
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Last year, my family's schedule didn't allow for a full blown Spring break trip. To make the most of our limited time, I booked a stay at a luxury hotel in downtown Seattle, so we can experience the life of a vacationer, from ordering room service, dipping in the pool, and touring the city to discover the delights of the Pike Place Market, the industrial space turned Olympic Sculpture Park, and unique attractions like the Fremont Troll.<br />
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If you haven't tried bidding on Priceline, it's a good opportunity to take this route for a great value on a mid-week stay in the city. I bid on a 4-star downtown hotel and ended up with the Grand Hyatt. At check-in, I requested a quiet room, away from the elevators. The Front Desk staff was so friendly, that they offered us a room at the end of the floor, which was a suite configuration with a separate seating room, and a marvelous view of the Space Needle. Because the hotel was not at full capacity, they were able to offer us this type of accommodation for the price of a regular room. The only drawback was the outrageous price of parking overnight.<br />
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Being centrally located, we had the kid friendly (for kids and kids at heart) Gameworks right across the street. With interactive games, simulators, air hockey etc., the kids had a variety of activities to choose from. After being a little hungry from a dance simulator game, we had a little snack at Starbucks by the hotel to get geared up to walk 7 blocks to Pike Place Market in the cold and rain. It doesn't seem to matter how many times we've visited the Market, we never tire of the sights and sounds we experience at every visit. Plus, it allows us to discover new favorite places.<br />
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One of our new favorites is the French restaurant Maxmilien. With a panoramic view of the of Puget Sound, and with its antique mirrors decor, we felt like we stepped into one of Paris' cafes. We ordered the delectable <b style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Les moules Marinière</i>, mussels steamed with butter, shallots, white wine, garlic and parsley. Since we had a late lunch, the restaurant was not busy, and we enjoyed prompt service and incredible food while delighting in our view.</b><br />
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A little mom time included a stop at the Sur La Table, originating in Seattle since 1972, it's first store at the Pike Place Market, offers a wide selection of cookware and kitchen gadgets. For the arts lover, numerous art galleries can be found steps away including the Steinbrueck Native Gallery. One of my favorite Native American artists is David Boxley, and I found a beloved piece for my collection there.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://reneebehnke.com/images/SurLaTable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://reneebehnke.com/images/SurLaTable.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Renee Behnke of Sur La Table</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.seattleartblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/steinbrueck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.seattleartblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/steinbrueck.jpg" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Steinbrueck Native Gallery</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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The final stop of our tourist Day 1 is the Dahlia Lounge, one of the city's top restaurants by chef extraordinaire Tom Douglas. You may recognize the restaurant from the classic film <i>Sleepless In Seattle</i>. Order anything on the menu for its fresh and creative presentation, but, leave room for their desserts. Our family's favorite is the triple coconut creme pie. If you're not able to get a reservation, don't fret as next door you'll find it, along with pastries and sandwiches at the Dahlia Bakery.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2137/2419183809_6d1cbd808a.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2137/2419183809_6d1cbd808a.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creme pie recipe courtesy of Tom Douglas<br />
http://www.cakespy.com/blog/2008/4/16/coconut-dream-a-love-affair-with-tom-douglas-legendary-cocon.html.</td></tr>
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After the walk up hill to our hotel, it was time for some rest and
relaxation at the pool. The Grand Hyatt had a balmy mini pool, which we had
to ourselves as the hotel business guests were still at their meetings.
Afterward, it was time for some dining and movie viewing. It is
truly priceless to be able to have room service while watching a newly
released movie laying on a king size bed with the Space Needle as
our companion view. The cherry on top of our wonderful staycation
evening was the <span class="st"><i>crème brûlée</i></span> ordered from the Ruth Chris steakhouse
housed inside the hotel.<br />
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Day 2 was a tour of the Olympic Sculpture Park, an ingenious endeavor
by the Seattle Art Museum to utilize nine acres of waterfront
industrial space into an outdoor community space. One can appreciate art and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, with a stop at this park. And the kids can run around, and still learn a bit of art education in the process.
Admission is free, and is readily accessible by bus from downtown.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large/seattle-olympic-sculpture-park-2-allen-beatty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large/seattle-olympic-sculpture-park-2-allen-beatty.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Seattle Art Museum</td></tr>
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Later in the morning, we visited a local gem at Capitol Hill's
Volunteer Park Conservatory. With free admission, it is a wonderful
getaway from the blustery weather outside, with it's tropical setting of
orchids and cacti.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hqCl6UvJqzBfNXO1g2Xh-G4ScSR9MPDGIXIBCVbMK3GoT8bdADjucC2qUu7L_s_LmWt1qmWuN3yR5YLgcCupgIHGfj0rtRR_PFQO1m0NYsZR82cMNXWEZUfcEGOWMh0uwJIkIKAXxqo/s1600/Volunteer+Park+Conservatory+4+0411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hqCl6UvJqzBfNXO1g2Xh-G4ScSR9MPDGIXIBCVbMK3GoT8bdADjucC2qUu7L_s_LmWt1qmWuN3yR5YLgcCupgIHGfj0rtRR_PFQO1m0NYsZR82cMNXWEZUfcEGOWMh0uwJIkIKAXxqo/s400/Volunteer+Park+Conservatory+4+0411.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Volunteer Park Conservatory</td></tr>
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Next stop for more gems off the beaten path is to visit the
famous troll in Fremont, one of Seattle's funky neighborhoods. And to
have one of best desserts in town at Simply Desserts. My favorite is the strawberry white chocolate cake.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2011/02/02/2014112428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2011/02/02/2014112428.jpg" height="400" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Simply Desserts</td></tr>
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Bidding adieu to our staycation was a final stop at Gasworks Park for a beautiful postcard view of the Seattle skyline over Lake Union. When the weather is nice, you can ride on the Burke-Gilman trail which offers views of the park, and have a picnic along the grassy hill.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.lonelyplanet.com/lpi/6981/6981-9/681x454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media.lonelyplanet.com/lpi/6981/6981-9/681x454.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Lonely Planet</td></tr>
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<br />Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-33464764619720210012011-11-22T11:23:00.001-08:002011-11-22T15:40:03.351-08:005 Places for Travel And Photography<span style="font-size: large;">Traveling to me, means taking lots of pictures and the fun of discovering. I love going where the locals go to eat and have fun. It's a thrill to find the "off the beaten path" places suggested to you by new friends made along your travels. It's also visiting the "must see" sites that has made a place famous. Capturing the timeless moments is an integral part of traveling. This is a photography tribute to some of my favorite places in the world.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(1) Thailand </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Temples. Monks dressed in robes. Street food.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.grandevillehotel.com/images/attraction/emerald-buddha-temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://www.grandevillehotel.com/images/attraction/emerald-buddha-temple.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wat Phra Kaew, the holiest of all Thai temples. It houses the most sacred image in Thailand, the small green-jade statue of the Buddha, high
on its golden altar in the Chapel Royal.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thailandtravelplan.co.uk/images/travelphotos/ayutthaya-statues.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://www.thailandtravelplan.co.uk/images/travelphotos/ayutthaya-statues.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Text">Ayutthaya is </span><span class="Text">steeped in ancient royal Thai history, chosen by King Ramthibodi as the first </span><span class="Text">capital of his kingdom in 1350. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Tours_package/1054/%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%B3%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%81.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Tours_package/1054/%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%B3%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%81.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ratchaburi, the site of Thailand’s most famous floating market has everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and local handicrafts. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(2) Greek Isles</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fabulous sunsets. Historical sites. Greek gods.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.globalwhisperer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/151408_409851ecf5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.globalwhisperer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/151408_409851ecf5.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santorini, one of 227 inhabited islands in Greece.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/1x4166105/Cityscape_at_Sunset_Oia_Santorini_Greece_700-00052326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/1x4166105/Cityscape_at_Sunset_Oia_Santorini_Greece_700-00052326.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unparalleled beauty of a postcard setting. <a class="ViewArtistLabel" href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2569488368787617102">Photo by
</a><a class="ViewArtistLink" href="http://www.visualphotos.com/artist/1x157/miles_ertman" title="View artist's collection">Miles Ertman</a><a class="ViewArtistLabel" href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2569488368787617102">
</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bestplacesforholiday.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/acropolis3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://bestplacesforholiday.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/acropolis3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visit Acropolis to see the Parthenon,
built in the fifth century BC. City states of ancient Greece are built around an acropolis where the
inhabitants can go as a place of refuge in times of invasion.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"> (3) Paris</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Eiffel Tower. Romance. Crepes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://places2explore.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/eiffel-tower-bw.jpg?w=450&h=296" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://places2explore.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/eiffel-tower-bw.jpg?w=450&h=296" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexandre Gustave Eiffel designed the Eiffel Tower in 1889. He also designed the Statue of Liberty.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://worldtravel212.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Seine-River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://worldtravel212.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Seine-River.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cruising the Seine River symbolizes romance. The river divides the city of Paris in neighborhoods; with the Eiffel Tower in the south shore, Notre Dame in the center, and the Louvre on the northern shore.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chewonthatblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/french-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://chewonthatblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/french-food.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet or savory crepes can be found throughout the city.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"> (4) Grand Canyon - Bryce Canyon - Zion National Parks</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Natural beauty. Hiking. Enjoying the outdoors.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.smithsonianmag.com/images/lifelist-grand-canyon-631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://media.smithsonianmag.com/images/lifelist-grand-canyon-631.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Grand Canyon is a holy site of the Pueblo people. It is 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. It's located in Arizona, about 300 miles southeast of Las Vegas.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hikercentral.com/parks/brca/pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://www.hikercentral.com/parks/brca/pic.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoodoos are tall skinny spires of rock. They are most abundant in the northern section of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wannawatch.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Zion-national-park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://www.wannawatch.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Zion-national-park.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emerald green swimming pool path, a backpacking adventure at Zion National Park in Utah.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(5) Cancun and Chichen Itza</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Beaches. Recreation. Archaelogical sites. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://michaelsikov2.com/mediac/400_0/media/DIR_25901/Cancun%7EWater.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://michaelsikov2.com/mediac/400_0/media/DIR_25901/Cancun%7EWater.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unbelievably beautiful turquoise waters and sugary white sands of Cancun.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.adventuresindating.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/cancun-para.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://www.adventuresindating.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/cancun-para.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parasailing is a popular pasttime, along with sport fishing, scuba diving and other water sports.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whatmexico.com/phototour/img/chichen-itza-ruins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.whatmexico.com/phototour/img/chichen-itza-ruins.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ancient city of Chichen Itza in the Northern Yucatan of Mexico, is included in the seven wonders of the world and UNESCO's World Heritage sites.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-67417712927854475582011-10-18T22:57:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:44:28.642-08:00Artistpoint360: 3 Must Do's in North Shore of Oahu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Having traveled to Oahu several times in the past years, some activities are definitely on the '3 Must Do's' along the North Shore. Adventure and eating go hand-in-hand while vacationing in this paradise island.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.</b> <b>Surfing on Waimea Bay</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you're a pro chasing the big waves around the world, or a first timer on a surf board, Oahu offers the best in surfing. Top surfers head out to North Shore for the 18 foot and bigger waves that Waimea offers in the winter time. Beginners come out in the summer when the surf is tamer and lessons are available at Haleiwa, the historical town on the North Shore.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Snorkeling at Shark's Cove</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The locals led us to this enclave off Kamehameha Highway in the Waimea area. It is a wonderful reef where a large variety of marine life frolic in their natural environment of coral and rock formations. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Turtles frequent the cove, along with the occasional white tipped reef sharks who are not aggressive. It's advisable that they not be approached. As the reef can only be accessed during the calm seas, the best time to snorkel is from March to October. Shoes are recommended along with your snorkeling gear.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Macky's Shrimp Truck</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All the outdoor water activities will inevitably make you hungry. Voted #1 by Trip Advisor in 2011, Macky's Shrimp Truck is off a dirt road on Haleiwa offering delightfully tender fresh shrimp in a special garlic sauce. They offer 3 types of shrimp, with the the butter garlic shrimp as the tastiest option at $10 a plate. With covered picnic tables and a faucet to wash your finger licking hands, this little piece of heaven will cater the kids and the kids in all of us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the recipe and accompanying YouTube link for your enjoyment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup Olive oil, garlic, 1 lemon juice, salt, pepper, 1tbs paprika,
ten cloves garlic, chives (optional) and 1/4 cup dry white wine (use
mirin for substitution). These are all for marinating.1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (about 16)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1) In very hot pan, fry shrimp first until half cooked and pink. Set aside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2) Let pan cool down and set stove to 3. Add in chopped garlic and sauté slowly without browning them. Use the smell whether you over cooked the garlic. Once garlic is nice and soft, add in the shrimp. Add in the rest of the chopped garlic for crunch.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Courtesy of Chef Tips on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_Gzg6-W2Q4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_Gzg6-W2Q4</a> </span><br />
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<br />Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-42490153258102580462011-10-11T22:45:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:45:15.794-08:00Scenic bike rides<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Riding your bike to get to Point A to Point B doesn't have to be boring. Here are a few scenic routes to get you inspired.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. North of San Francisco to Mt. Tamalpais</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The birthplace of mountain biking, Mt. Tamalpais and the surrounding areas in Marin County, California offers magnificent views. The peak </span>at 2,571 foot (784 m) overlooks the azure San Francisco Bay. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">'Mount Tam' short for Tamalpais can be reached from the new bike path that guides cyclists over the Golden Gate, through Sausalito and Mill Valley into Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Continue climbing the Panoramic Highway to Trojan Point to fully witness the great Pacific. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The journey to Sausalito via the Golden Gate Bridge offers postcard worthy scenery. For an excellent photo opportunity, look over to the east to see the San Francisco skyline. A little coffee break can be taken at any of the numerous cafes in Mill Valley before the ascend to Mount Tam. The last restroom stop is at the Park Ranger Station. This 43 mile biking expedition is for the more advanced cylist.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. San Juan Islands in Washington State</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Another beautiful scenic bicycle route is on San Juan Island. Upon departing the ferry from Friday Harbor, one can immediately go on a bike ride on a quiet road with fairly light traffic and views of</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Turn Island, Jackson Beach, and Griffin Bay. It's a short easy ride, and can be combined with a trek to Lime Kiln State Park to view the orcas, which is why it's called the 'Whale Watching Park'. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For those wanting a greater challenge which offers even more spectacular view, the Roche Harbor route through numerous farms and Lime Kiln State Park is a 28 mile trek. You'll see alpacas at the Krystal Acres Alpaca Farm and the purple wonders of Pelindaba Lavendar Farm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Resources:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bicycling Magazine - Mount Tamalpais <a href="http://www.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip/335136">http://www.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip/335136</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">REI - Turn Point Pear Point Loop</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.rei.com/guidepost/detail/washington/road-biking/turn-point-pear-point-loop-san-juan-island/2251">http://www.rei.com/guidepost/detail/washington/road-biking/turn-point-pear-point-loop-san-juan-island/2251</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Island Bicycles - Roche Harbor Lime Kiln Route</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.islandbicycles.com/index.php?/maps/roche-harbor-lime-kiln-route/">http://www.islandbicycles.com/index.php?/maps/roche-harbor-lime-kiln-route/</a> </span><br />
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</i><span style="font-size: large;"></span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-74617133155594067102011-10-04T19:22:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:46:20.773-08:00Carmel: Driving the Pacific Coast Highway<span style="font-size: x-large;">A Beautiful Drive to Carmel</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Carmel, a small city in California, is a must destination for those traveling the West Coast. The image that is conjured in my mind is the sole tree swept by the winds of the Pacific Ocean. The pine tree is on its own, but, it's not lonely. It's accompanied by the waves, the flavors of the town nearby, and the golfers at Pebble Beach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can still remember the drive from San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway as if I took it yesterday. I was so in awe of the natural beauty of Monterey Bay. From downtown on Union Square, the drive took about 2 1/2 hours, counting the numerous picture taking stops along the way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Memorable moments included discovering a gem of a restaurant which offered you a fresh cup of coffee instead of refilling your coffee cup, and the 1920's English cottage with the beautiful gardens enclosed behind a decorative wooden fence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For ideas on what to see and do in Carmel, the Carmel Chamber of Commerce has a list of </span><span style="font-size: large;">itineraries </span><span style="font-size: large;">at <a href="http://www.carmelcalifornia.org/things-to-do/Itineraries.aspx">http://www.carmelcalifornia.org/things-to-do/Itineraries.aspx</a>.</span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-31206831205567819332011-09-27T20:58:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:47:00.527-08:00North Cascades and Mazama: A Natural Gem<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of the beautiful areas we discovered during our travels this summer is Mazama, Washington, located along the North Cascades National Park.</span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">At 5,020 feet, the Goat Wall, part of the Goat Peak trail, starting from the small town of Mazama, you will see breathtaking views of pasture lands along the Methow River. The picturesque site is surrounded by jagged peaks that surround Washington Pass. As icing to the cake of natural beauty, were the bountiful wildflowers of blue, yellow and orange.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The quaint town of Mazama, which means "mountain goat" in Spanish, with a population of 230, is part of the Methow Valley trail system of nordic skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To get there from the Seattle area, one goes on the North Cascades Highway, </span><span class="maintext"><span style="font-size: large;">a scenic route along the </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">Cascade Loop, passing through 'Lord of The Rings' scenery as the Liberty Bell of the glacier-clad Washington Peak. </span><span style="font-size: large;">National Geographic calls the North Cascades National Park the "American Alps".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Map of Goat Wall: <a href="http://www.trailbehind.com/Goat%20Wall/#get_map_from_node/2294316">http://www.trailbehind.com/Goat%20Wall/#get_map_from_node/2294316</a></span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-21752038630605450182011-05-17T21:23:00.000-07:002013-12-21T14:49:40.425-08:00Leavenworth: Profiled Destination<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Leavenworth - A destination for all seasons</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What we like about Leavenworth are the various activities for all seasons. Sledding and sleigh rides in the Winter. Swimming and river rafting in the Summer. Golf and hiking in the Spring and Fall. And a sausage stand which offers a delicious respite from your activities all year round.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Leavenworth Visitor's Guide</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Leavenworth Summer Theatre</td></tr>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sledding</span></span></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">You don't have to go far to go sledding. Right in the city is a hill appropriate for sledding. They even provide hay bales to cushion your ride at the bottom of the hill. Plus you will take in the fairy tale view of holiday lights throughout Main Street. There is a tubing hill at the Leavenworth Winter's Sports Club for ages 8 and up. <a href="http://www.skileavenworth.com/tubing">http://www.skileavenworth.com/tubing</a></span></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sleigh rides</span></span></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is a picturesque ride with snowflakes falling on your face, and views of snow covered trees. The horses gallop along with you in tow, around the natural beauty of Leavenworth's forests.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">During your ride, you'll be warmed by the thick wool blankets, and stories of Leavenworth's past. At the end of your journey, hot apple cider will be offered to you.</span></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Swimming</span></span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The inns and hotels in the city have swimming pools to refresh you on hot summer days. Leavenworth even has a large public swimming pool available. Of course, nothing is more refreshing than a dip in the Wenatchee River. Just behind town is Waterfront Park and Blackbird Island with a swimming beach and adjacent lakes and streams.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.cityofleavenworth.com/waterfrontpark.htm">http://www.cityofleavenworth.com/waterfrontpark.htm</a></span></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">River rafting </span></span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">An exhilarating experience for both beginners and experienced adventurers is Wenatchee whitewater rafting. The river has relaxing calm stretches, as well as Class 3 to 3+ rapids. Refer to link below for listing of rafting options.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.leavenworth.org/modules/pages/?pageid=83&path=9%7C83">http://www.leavenworth.org/modules/pages/?pageid=83&path=9|83</a> </span></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Golfing</span></span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A family excursion to the Enzian Falls putting course will delight all ages. With panoramic views of the mountains, waterfalls and streams, and occasional visits by mountain goats, this is an easy fun way to enjoy one another.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.enzianfalls.com/">http://www.enzianfalls.com/</a></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/cascades/Leavenworth/images/goat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/cascades/Leavenworth/images/goat.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Enzian Inn</td></tr>
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hiking</span></span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There are hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails around Leavenworth and within the Wenatchee National Forest. You'll need a pass to visit, $5 for the day or $30 for the year, available for purchase at </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Der Sportsman, Leavenworth Mountain Sports, and Sleeping Lady Mountain Retreat Gift Shop. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/cascades/Leavenworth/leavenworth_hiking.htm">http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/cascades/Leavenworth/leavenworth_hiking.htm</a> </span></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sausage stand</span></span></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Open all year round, with heaters on at the outdoor beer garden during the Winter, the Munchen Haus is a must stop. They offer a DIY condiment bar with a vast choice of mustard, relish, onions and sauerkraut, along with a selection of refreshing German beer. </span></span><br />
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Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-86126694665906482662011-05-10T23:41:00.000-07:002014-06-20T15:15:30.458-07:00Great Wolf Lodge: Profiled Destination<span style="font-size: large;">Great Wolf Lodge = Fun + Safe + Memorable</span><br />
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The Great Wolf Lodge is a winning combination of <b>Fun</b> for all ages, from babies to grandparents; <b>Safe</b> in the water under the eagle eyes of numerous lifeguards; and <b>Memorable</b> for special occasions. The only site in the West Coast at Grand Mound, Washington was our destination for a combined First Communion for my daughter and Mother's Day weekend. In fact our family had such a wonderful time, that this trip inspired me to start a series of Profiled Destinations for my readers. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/trazzler-images/af/1191/2363366581_0c013324a9_b.jpg?1210288088" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/trazzler-images/af/1191/2363366581_0c013324a9_b.jpg?1210288088" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Fun Times</b></u></span><br />
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As a full service family resort, you don't have to leave the lodge to play, relax and eat.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<b>Play:</b> At the indoor water park open exclusively to hotel guests, they have many choices for all ages: 6 slides, from tame ones to exhilarating rides; 3 pools including a wave pool; a waterfort where a bucket full of 1,000 gallons of water is released on a regular basis; and indoor and outdoor hot tubs.<br />
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<b>Relax:</b> Adventures for the kids in all of us, from a Junior Lifeguard Program, MagiQuest, a Renaissance fantasy game equipped with wands like in Harry Potter, and an exclusive area for teens to hang out. There's Bingo, Story Time, and the Spa for adults and their tweens.<br />
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My favorite was the wave pool. It reminded me of body surfing in Hawaii. My kids really enjoyed the MagiQuest game. In fact, we took a break for lunch at the nearby small city of Centralia, and came back to the Lodge to continue the game.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/24/0a/bb/wave-pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/24/0a/bb/wave-pool.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wave Pool: Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MagiQuest game: Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<b>Eat: </b>We had pizza and wings on our first night which took 15 minutes from order to delivery, so we can maximize our time at the waterpark which closed at 9pm, and to play the MagiQuest game up to 10pm. Note: Playing in the waterpark and going on the MagiQuest wand adventure is a workout, so having a Starbucks on site was handy for the parents. To please the kids, they have ice cream and sweets. Plus, beer was available inside the waterpark to quench the thirst of the adults.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Safe</span></b></u><br />
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Throughout our stay, families of all sizes, shapes and color were mingling around the grand lobby and up and down the stairs. On our first night, my husband and I accompanied the kids on their MagiQuest game. By the following morning, we felt completely at ease to allow them to go on their adventure along with the other children roaming the Lodge. There were always people to get assistance from, and the crowd was courteous to one another. It gave us an opportunity to relax in the huge lobby filled with comfortable chairs and sofas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://0.tqn.com/d/themeparks/1/0/A/D/GWOH3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://0.tqn.com/d/themeparks/1/0/A/D/GWOH3.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel Lobby: Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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In the waterpark, I was so impressed by the diligence of the lifeguards. Each guard had a small territory he/she oversaw, and did it so professionally, looking to their right, then the left of their "territory" with their eagle eyes. I never felt so safe in a public pool ever!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogcdn.com/theinsider.tripvine.com/media/2010/01/greatwolflodgebeavertaillakewavepool_242x136%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/theinsider.tripvine.com/media/2010/01/greatwolflodgebeavertaillakewavepool_242x136%5B1%5D.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/hash/e7/f8/e7f8e57e6c041f82e5841b00fdc2ab97.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/hash/e7/f8/e7f8e57e6c041f82e5841b00fdc2ab97.jpg" height="259" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Memorable</b></u></span><br />
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Since it was Mother's Day, we had to try out the breakfast buffet. I was pleasantly surprised! The food was quite good from the made-to-order omelets, strawberry smoothie and a nice selection of fresh fruit. In fact the coffee was so delicious with my soy milk that I stayed behind for another two cups, while my family went to the waterpark.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i0.bookcdn.com/data/Photos/LargePhoto2/25/2540/2540313/Great-Wolf-Lodge---Sandusky-Oh-photos-Room.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i0.bookcdn.com/data/Photos/LargePhoto2/25/2540/2540313/Great-Wolf-Lodge---Sandusky-Oh-photos-Room.JPEG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge </td></tr>
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What made this weekend trip to the Great Wolf Lodge memorable was the Quality. From the soft absorbent towels to the decor of the room. Our room had a bunk bed "cabin style" equipped with a tv for the kids. In an adjourning area, separated by a wall was our Queen bed, fireplace, sofa bed, a small dining table alongside a kitchen area equipped with a medium sized fridge and microwave.<br />
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Great Wolf Lodge had the amenities, which made it so convenient for a family getaway. And great customer service too. We can't wait to return.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2118/3533431547_cddd8bcd3d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2118/3533431547_cddd8bcd3d.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Insider Secret Tips:</b></u></span><br />
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1. You can invite up to 6 guests to use the waterpark with a "Day Pass" as long as you have stayed overnight.<br />
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2. Check in before the designated check in time. You are allowed to use the waterpark even if your room is not ready.<br />
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3. You have 4 days to use the wand for the MagiQuest game. And, the wands are your take home souvenirs, which can be reused on your next visit.<br />
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4. Come back to the Lodge and play the MagiQuest game without having to stay overnight. Having the wand allows you to start the game wherever you left off.<br />
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5. Request a late check out. One extra hour means one additional hour at the waterpark and having a shower at the privacy of your own bathroom instead of the locker room.Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-46007233209355064992011-05-04T00:10:00.000-07:002013-12-21T15:02:07.715-08:00Seattle Series: 3 "Wow" destinations in Seattle<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3 Wow places to visit in Seattle</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">While driving the kids to their activities this week, we starting talking about places that had the "wow" factor in Seattle. Our discussion included Downtown Seattle, whale watching, and others. As the mommy blogger, I've narrowed it down to the top 3 located in the Seattle metro area, which both adults and children will delight in.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Chateau Ste Chateau</td></tr>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">The Chateau Ste Michelle</span></u><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">The picturesque setting of the Chateau Ste Michelle winery in Woodinville tops the list. A mere 30 minutes drive from downtown Seattle takes you to a world of its own. With beautiful sprawling grounds, a lovely mansion, a resident peacock, and of course a sampling of various wine at the wine tasting, you can immerse yourself in happiness without getting a visa to Southern France. During the summer months, you can enjoy concerts on the lawn with your picnic dinner and bottle of wine which you can buy from the wine shop. Children are welcome in the winery tour and at the concerts.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ste-michelle.com/files/press/Image/69/CSM_Concert_520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ste-michelle.com/files/press/Image/69/CSM_Concert_520.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Chateau Ste Woodinville</td></tr>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">The Boeing Tour</span></u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Where else can you visit a building as big as </span>75 NFL football fields or 911 NBA basketball courts </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">housing the Boeing 747s, 767s, 777s and the new 787 Dreamliner?</span> </span>In the Seattle suburb of Everett lies the world</span><span style="font-size: large;">'s largest building based on volume. During the tour, you will be perched on a balcony above the manufacturing floor. There you will see the seven stages of production, from cone to tail. At this moment, you'll realize just how tiny you in their world, and how phenomenal the process of building airplanes which we fly in. There is a height requirement of 4 foot for admission to the tour.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Alki Beach</span></u><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">While Chicago has its beaches on Lake Shore Drive with water as far as the eye can see, Seattle has Alki Beach. With</span> </span>2.5 miles of sandy beach, a great seawall for walking and people watching, this beach has sand as opposed to rocks as in other area beaches. An added bonus is a fine view of the Seattle skyline. There are numerous restaurants to choose from after some beach volleyball, rollerblading, or sun worshiping. The kids in all of us will have a great adventure here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Resources</span><br />
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Chateau Ste Michelle Wine Tour: <a href="http://www.ste-michelle.com/winery/tastingTours">http://www.ste-michelle.com/winery/tastingTours</a><br />
and Summer Concerts: <a href="http://www.ste-michelle.com/events/concertCalendar">http://www.ste-michelle.com/events/concertCalendar</a><br />
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Boeing Tour: <a href="http://www.boeing.com/commercial/tours/index.html">http://www.boeing.com/commercial/tours/index.html</a><br />
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Alki Beach: <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=445">http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=445</a><br />
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</span>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-79036799493935687712011-04-20T00:36:00.000-07:002013-12-21T15:03:15.987-08:00Seattle Series: Seattle Day Trips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seattle Day Trips</span><br />
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Quick getaways from Seattle to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest is as easy as going north to the San Juan Islands, south to Mount Rainier National Park, or east to Snoqualmie Falls. Each site offers its own uniqueness to the Seattle experience.<br />
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<u>San Juan Islands</u><br />
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An archipelago comprising of four main islands of the San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw islands, it is approximately an hour and a half drive to Anacortes, and an additional hour long ferry ride via the Washington State Ferries to the San Juan Islands. A faster route would be to take a seaplane via Kenmore Air.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Margret Maria Cordts<span class="name" id="yui_3_3_0_1_1303283513118938"><b class="username" id="yui_3_3_0_1_1303283513118940"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cordts/"></a></b></span></td></tr>
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The more popular destinations are San Juan Island and Orcas Island, where your choices of experiencing nature include kayaking, whale watching, hiking, and biking. My preference is Orcas Island where the highest point of Mount Constitution at 2409 feet or 734 meters is located. You may hike, ride your mountain bike, or drive up to the summit. On a clear day, you can easily see Victoria in British Columbia. The view is awe inspiring.<br />
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One of my favorite activities is whale watching. My family went last summer on a whale watching tour from Orcas Island, and witnessed a "super pod" of whales, which is essentially a big block party of several residential pods of orca whales. It was the most exciting viewing of wildlife I have ever experienced. Not only did we see a lot of orca whales, but, we also saw seals and eagles. We went on a smaller boat on Outer Island Expedition, which allowed us to be nimble and get to the action faster.</div>
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<u>Mount Rainier National Park</u><br />
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One of my favorite destinations is a two and a half hour drive from Seattle to Mt. Rainier. This permanent feature of Seattle is beautiful from downtown and its suburbs. But, up close, it is truly magnificent.<br />
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From Paradise, located on the south slope of the mountain, the view is simply breathtaking, especially on a sunny day where you can see the mountain peak. Paradise at 5,400 feet or 1,600 meters is the most popular destination by visitors to the mountain. It has a historic inn and restaurant, and numerous trails, including to the base camp of Camp Muir for serious mountaineers scaling the top of the mountain.<br />
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The ideal time to visit is during the summer months when the wild flowers are in bloom. One popular and fairly easy hike is Alta Vista Loop Trail where you can see a spectacular showcase of Nature's bouquet of flowers. If you prefer, a more challenging hike, I went on wonderful hike with family last summer on the Skyline Trail Loop Trail. We crossed creeks, played on the snow and saw beautiful waterfalls in shorts and t-shirts.<br />
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<u>Snoqualmie Falls</u><br />
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Of the three day trips showcased, this is the easiest trip to make, and doesn't require an early start to your day. Located east of Seattle and a quick 45 minute drive, Snoqualmie Falls is known to many tv viewers of the cult series <i>Twin Peaks</i>. It is 268 feet or 82 meters, with a historic Salish Lodge and Spa which serves a wonderful Sunday brunch.<br />
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There is a trail that takes you to the base of the falls. I've been to the Falls at all seasons, and it is a lovely sight for vacationers who want to see the greenery and for the fresh air.<br />
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<u>Helpful Links:</u><br />
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Washington State Ferries System<br />
<a href="http://www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/">http://www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/</a><br />
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Kenmore Air <br />
<a href="http://www.kenmoreair.com/content.php?content_id=37">http://www.kenmoreair.com/content.php?content_id=37</a><br />
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Whale Watching<br />
<a href="http://www.outerislandx.com/WhaleWatching.php">http://www.outerislandx.com/WhaleWatching.php</a><br />
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Paradise Area Hiking<br />
<a href="http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=12908">http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=12908</a><br />
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Alta Vista Loop Trail<br />
<a href="http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGW333-065">http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGW333-065</a><br />
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Skyline Trail Loop Trail<br />
<a href="http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGW333-068">http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGW333-068</a><br />
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Snoqualmie Falls<br />
<a href="http://www.snoqualmiefalls.com/">http://www.snoqualmiefalls.com/</a>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-69061778039166628672011-04-05T23:13:00.000-07:002013-12-21T15:07:08.787-08:00Seattle Series: Seattle Guide for Foodies<span style="font-size: large;">Seattle for Foodies, a 24 hour guide</span><br />
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You've landed in the Emerald City. Land of Amazon, Microsoft and Starbucks. You're hungry. You only have 24 hours. This will be a journey to delight the foodie in you from a Seattlelite's point of view.<br />
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<b><u>Starting Point</u>: Pike Place Market</b><br />
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As a "Seattlelite", having gone to undergrad and grad school in Seattle, and having entertained clients in restaurants throughout the city in my various corporate posts, the Pike Place Market encapsulates Seattle like no other venue. We will start and end here. <br />
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At the Market, have breakfast of French cuisine at <b>Cafe Campagne</b>, at the foot of the Inn At The Market. If your travel isn't on a weekend, head over to <b>Le Panier</b> for French pastries. If snacks are what you need, sample the fresh donut holes yards away from Rachel the Pig at the <b>Daily Dozen Donut Company</b>. <br />
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Walking around the market is an awakening of all your senses, and inevitably, you will need coffee. Have a cup from <b>Starbucks</b> from a high altitude and with a fabulous view from the 40th floor of the Columbia Tower. At the nearby International Market or Chinatown of Seattle, have a quick bite to eat at <b>Kau Kau's</b> for their fabulous BBQ pork and duck.<br />
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<b><u>Second stop:</u> Shilshole Bay</b><br />
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Head towards the water north of the city to <b>Ray's Boathouse</b> on Shilshole Bay for their Happy Hour on the outside patio, where you will see the nautical side and natural beauty of Seattle. A must to order is their Black Cod Sake Kasu which melts in your mouth. Their specialty is seafood, and you may order any entree from their full-service restaurant while sitting at the Cafe. <br />
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<b><u>Third stop:</u> Madison Park</b><br />
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Tucked a few miles from downtown is Madison Park. The Olympian Apolo Ohno loves to have sushi at the aesthetically beautiful display of sushi wonder at <b>Nishino's</b>. The sushi there is so artistic. A feast of the senses indeed. Have a bit of sushi, but, leave some room for dinner back at the Pike Place Market.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Alan L. Bauer</td></tr>
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<b><u>Final stop:</u> Pike Place Market</b><br />
Voted one of the most romantic restaurants in the city, have your last meal or your dessert of the night at <b>Il Bistro</b>. This Italian restaurant consistently delivers delicious food. Choose from their dinner menu or late night happy hour, until midnight Sunday-Thursday or 1am Friday-Saturday. Ciao!<br />
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<b>Restaurant Links and Address:</b><br />
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<b>Cafe Campagne:</b> Located at the Market's Post Alley<br />
<a href="http://www.campagnerestaurant.com/cafe_splash.html">http://www.campagnerestaurant.com/cafe_splash.html</a><br />
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<b>Le Panier:</b> Located north of the Public Market sign on 1902 Pike Place<br />
<a href="http://www.lepanier.com/our-story">http://www.lepanier.com/our-story</a><br />
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<b>Daily Dozen Donut Company:</b> Located by De Laurenti's & Rachel the pig sculpture<br />
<a href="http://www.seattleweekly.com/locations/daily-dozen-doughnut-company-499145/">http://www.seattleweekly.com/locations/daily-dozen-doughnut-company-499145/</a><br />
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<b>Starbucks at Columbia Tower: </b>Located between 4th & 5th Avenues on Columbia <br />
<a href="http://www.seattleweekly.com/bestof/2010/award/best-coffee-shop-with-a-view-1045262/">http://www.seattleweekly.com/bestof/2010/award/best-coffee-shop-with-a-view-1045262/</a><br />
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<b>Kau Kau's:</b> Located on Maynard Ave S. & S. King St.<br />
<a href="http://www.kaukaubbq.com/">http://www.kaukaubbq.com/</a><br />
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<b>Ray's Boathouse:</b> Located in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle at 6049 Seaview Ave NW<br />
<a href="http://www.rays.com/cafe">http://www.rays.com/cafe</a><br />
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<b>Nishino's:</b> Located on Lake Washington Blvd E. & E. Madison St. on 3130 E. Madison St.<br />
<a href="http://www.nishinorestaurant.com/food/index.html">http://www.nishinorestaurant.com/food/index.html</a> <br />
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<b>Il Bistro:</b> Down the ramp from Rachel the Pig sculpture on 93 Pike St. #A<br />
<a href="http://www.ilbistro.net/">http://www.ilbistro.net/</a><br />
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<b>Maps:</b><br />
<b>(1) Pike Place Market </b><br />
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<b>(2) Seattle Map </b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.seattle.gov/html/citizen/maps_seattle.htm">http://www.seattle.gov/html/citizen/maps_seattle.htm</a> </b><br />
<b>Note: Ray's Boathouse is by Golden Gardens and Nishino's is by the Washington Park and Arboretum </b>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2569488368787617102.post-7641463637130381532011-02-03T23:45:00.000-08:002011-03-14T14:10:23.834-07:00A New Year, Finding Your Passion<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Artist Point at Mt. Baker, is a steep climb with a gorgeous view. Join us in the Adventure.</b></i></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">It's a new year according to the lunar calendar. The year of The Rabbit. It's a great time to ask ourselves what gets us excited to get up in the mornings, or what do we look forward to in the days or weeks ahead? Could it be the simple luxury of a good cup of coffee, or the upcoming tropical vacation? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">For me finding my passion in surfing has given me a greater perspective as a mom.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/POP/MP706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/POP/MP706.jpg" width="206" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Vacation in Hawaii</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">My last big vacation was spent in the paradise of Hawaii. For the first time in a long time, I did something for ME. What I have always wanted to try was surfing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Surf Lessons </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">How does one search for the ultimate first time surfing experience? After reading great reviews about a woman-based business in Oahu called Girls Who Surf, I gave them a call. My husband and I met Cecilia, our Brazilian surf instructor at White Plains Beach, near the Ko Olina beach resort, and far away from the crowds of Waikiki. This experience was to be a private debut and not in front of a throng of beachgoers. After all this is a mom with some dignity!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtiBanseWsIo9_1LKj8nJj6h5Rp0-_XWhCp4a0uSyPWTIEJJlRDemCNuFFQF_EnuXBsPdogwQ5n9konjpNuoRu_hbkAi2lp-gZ-lLerj04CKiqxowEWf2k31iun0VwHLLpO6Y0Wf7kvk/s1600/GWSlogo+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtiBanseWsIo9_1LKj8nJj6h5Rp0-_XWhCp4a0uSyPWTIEJJlRDemCNuFFQF_EnuXBsPdogwQ5n9konjpNuoRu_hbkAi2lp-gZ-lLerj04CKiqxowEWf2k31iun0VwHLLpO6Y0Wf7kvk/s320/GWSlogo+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">The land based portion of the private lesson involved laying on top of the surfboard on the sand. Cecilia taught me how to paddle, get up on the board, and what to do when the wave is coming at you. With a rash guard on (SPF shirt as a layer), water shoes on, ankle tied to the board with a leash, I was ready to meet my first wave.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Paddle, Paddle, Paddle </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">A few yards away from shore, I immediately had to paddle a lot and paddle fast! With Cecilia nearby, she positioned me for the wave. With my board pointing towards land, while I was laying down on it, and looking behind me, waiting for the "perfect" wave, I heard the words "paddle, paddle, paddle", then "stand"!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">There were two ways I was taught on how to get up on the surfboard. Instinctively, I jumped on the board, without going through the moves in my head. In a split second, the wave was pushing me forward. I was gliding on top of the water! </span><span style="font-size: small;">Moments later, my first wave was over. <a name='more'></a></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMI0ElU7XkEJcKPxZ7WUIAcePv-6fHye40mA76pnv5iJGj_r-Zi1VyB6G0-_6_FDo0mB1SLolDiS9PuhrB0z_FbVWs92xSlbdbm0cwMjdIMyBhgBn-XVwAHMXwPtugJqVl825L4zPjobY/s1600/DSC_0688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMI0ElU7XkEJcKPxZ7WUIAcePv-6fHye40mA76pnv5iJGj_r-Zi1VyB6G0-_6_FDo0mB1SLolDiS9PuhrB0z_FbVWs92xSlbdbm0cwMjdIMyBhgBn-XVwAHMXwPtugJqVl825L4zPjobY/s320/DSC_0688.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfil3WhyphenhyphenSTMXxjkmjVAzAqz9-_9kYOZUv4yKLR4KDomXiPeWxVeG9xIzs3J-CYOMMXdiv3PrvCTWeHdUfy0iYwEuBmKo0kXmhFqezmO7CLDYxV5sss8ZA5WQZy1ncZ2I_kAUMPFP4-aa8/s1600/DSC_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfil3WhyphenhyphenSTMXxjkmjVAzAqz9-_9kYOZUv4yKLR4KDomXiPeWxVeG9xIzs3J-CYOMMXdiv3PrvCTWeHdUfy0iYwEuBmKo0kXmhFqezmO7CLDYxV5sss8ZA5WQZy1ncZ2I_kAUMPFP4-aa8/s320/DSC_0689.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Riding the Wave </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">What a feeling it was to ride a wave. It was so exhilarating. I was thrilled to be able to surf on my first attempt, especially since I thought being a less-than strong swimmer would hinder me. But, the salt in the water helped me float, and my board was my lifesaver, as long as I was attached to it. I wanted to do it again. It was such a high. I was hooked on surfing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">On the next couple waves, I was able to stand again and ride the wave. They were little waves, not the kind you see at surf competitions. Nevertheless, they were waves and I surfed. Nearing the end of the lesson, I was entirely wiped out. My arm muscles weren't accustomed to the paddling rigors of surfing. I let my husband finish out the lesson, while I laid on the beach to take pictures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>What surfing teaches us</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">As a mom, we let our children try out new activities, and we support them wholeheartedly. We drive them to practice, wash their uniform, prepare their snacks etc. I have learned that it's just as important as moms to show our children that we have our own interests, and we take on new endeavors. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The lessons I take away from my surf experience were:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> (1) Taking action in preparing for a new endeavor, such as exercising at the gym or swimming at the pool, teaches our children about preparation and commitment.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> (2) Taking action with lessons in a new sport demonstrates to our children a sense of adventure. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Attempting something new can be a bit intimidating. But, it can also be a lot of fun. It can even lead to a new hobby or interest. In finding my passion, I feel that I can relate better to my daughters. Whether they are auditioning for a part in a musical, or performing a dance routine in front of an audience, I can relate to their anxiety and their joy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">With the start of a new year, wouldn't it be fun to try something new?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqkEIy-3eMs-x_nOjkwiHZJrFDzSHZncmZIVVbI36I1fr0o_J0BAjIj1iy8OA1Rb-7tBjhMKo-V-Npm-vGoHZOvNAeNc4tBVxp4T7g-wKgWdozohRW6RQJUZfoeWnljLNdz7F3rnvGrY/s1600/DSC_0813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqkEIy-3eMs-x_nOjkwiHZJrFDzSHZncmZIVVbI36I1fr0o_J0BAjIj1iy8OA1Rb-7tBjhMKo-V-Npm-vGoHZOvNAeNc4tBVxp4T7g-wKgWdozohRW6RQJUZfoeWnljLNdz7F3rnvGrY/s320/DSC_0813.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Recommended links:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.girlswhosurf.com/">http://www.girlswhosurf.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.gohawaii.com/">http://www.gohawaii.com/</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Rachelle @artistpointhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197500559987124543noreply@blogger.com2