Happy New Year!

We've been neglectful for several months. Sometimes life just throws more at us than we can handle. Two surgeries, ailing parents, two family deaths, crises at our 'regular' jobs … last year was a roller coaster, and we're glad to see it go. We have great hope that 2009 will be easier, happier, more peaceful. We also have more travel plans for the coming months and are looking forward to sharing our explorations with you, our dear reader and friend. In the meantime, start this new year with anticipation. Meditate on the good things that you want to draw into your life. Stay focused on the goodness around and always be thankful! May this year be your best ever …

Wishful Thinking - Beaches in my Mind

Today's our 32nd anniversary.
And it snowed!
Someone asked me last week
what two things I could do without.
My answer – winter and cold weather!

Winter in northwestern Pennsylvania
almost requires a get-away
for sun and relaxation.

One favorite spot – Virginia Beach.
It's a one-day drive,
it's a LOT warmer than home,
and we've gone so many times
that we know just where to shop and eat.

If you'd like to tag along, check out
Virginia Beach - An Off-Season Love Affair

If you're at the beach right now … enjoy.
If you're not, start planning
for some R&R in the sun!
… Or a mini-vacation to anywhere.

Watch for our new ebook on mini-vacations.
It'll be out soon and
it's loaded with ideas and information for
you to use in planning your next weekend away.

Remember,
Life is a journey … travel first class.

Adding A Mini-Vacation in Miami Beach

Greetings, fellow traveler,

It's Saturday night, a great time to start
dreaming about your next trip.

This time of year, lots of us head to Miami
to board a cruise ship
or fly on to an island destination.
You might consider
adding a mini-vacation in Miami,
either before or after your scheduled plans.

We arrived in Miami two days
before our cruise ship sailed
and stayed on the northern end
of South Beach.

All the atmosphere and amenities
of the Art Deco resort area:
within walking distance of
famed Lincoln Road …

fashionably-late dining
at scrumptious outdoor restaurants …

and the reasonably-priced
Continental Hotel.
Basic accommodations,
but right on the beach.

It was great fun,
and a wonderful way
to start a vacation.
We had two extra days to unwind
and enjoy all the amenities
that Miami Beach has to offer.

Arriving early also guaranteed
we didn't get snowed in
or had to deal with a delayed flight
right before our cruise.

So … think about the possibilities
of adding a mini-vacation onto your next trip!

Remember, life is a journey
… travel first class!
(And add a few days extra!)

Identity Theft: Staying Safe While You Travel

Imagine the anticipation of
heading out on an adventure!
You've made your plans;
your bags are packed.
What else should you think about?

What's in Your Wallet?

Take only the credit card you'll need
and leave the rest safely at home.
If you're taking two cards
(one for back-up),
don't keep them in the same place.

Make a copy – front and back –
of any identification you're taking,
including your passport,
and leave it with someone back home.

Remove your 'extra' credit cards
and all unnecessary identification.
Do NOT take your social security card!

If you need a 'store' card for a special sale,
they can look up your account at the store.

Leave extra cash in the hotel safe.
I lost my wallet in Las Vegas.
It cost me about $100 in cash,
but it didn't ruin the trip because
I had more locked in my room.

For more information on identity theft,
sign up for our newsletter.
You'll receive a series of travel trips,
including more ideas on travel safety.

Remember, life is a journey …
Travel first class!
(and stay safe!)