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Pumpkin Patch

October 25, 2009

It was a good sunny Sunday with cool breeze. So, we decided to go and visit the lake view farm in triadelphia, Glenelg, MD for our pumpkin patch. We thought of this day as an extension of our 5th year wedding celebration and so there we go!

Not bad afterall, although we tried to find a big pumpkin for our jack o'lantern, we weren't able to. We thought we were not on the first few batches to get the most fresh pumpkin since the farm opened for the pumpkin season, but it was fine. We were able to choose two round ones for two jack o'lanterns on Halloween.

Here's Ging looking for her "ideal" pumpkin, and of course this is her first pumpkin patch! :).

Fall Foliage Trip

This has been my third year since I came to America. Two fall seasons had passed until I have analyzed I haven't seen yet the real beauty of nature when everything around becomes so colorful. my husband suggested we could got to Harpers Ferry in West Virginia to see the entire view. There are many places to see the beauty of fall foliage but this one is the closest to us from home.

October 24, 2009 - Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

This park is full of complex past with a colorful history. If you love history, this is the ideal place as well. During the peak of the fall season, here is a great place to see the colorful trees.
The park has many explorable diverse areas, from the 19th century restored buildings and exhibits to hiking and biking.

Herr's Snack Factory Tour

Me at Herr's Factory, Nottingham, Pennsylvania

It was a spur of the moment decision when we decided to drive down to Herr's for the snack factory tour. It was like an hour drive and we thought of catching the last tour at 3PM. We arrived at the place 15 minutes earlier, so we got some time to buy tickets. No cameras are allowed inside so strictly no photography please! Photos are always welcome outside, so we managed to get some shots :).
The tour is more on educational experience...ideal for kids and school trips, but fun for everybody else. Why? Because the best part is you get to taste free corn chips freshly made from the actual factory. It was tasty!!!
It was as well a fun experience visiting the real factory, with the people actually working inside, and you get a glimpse on how the products are being made from scratch to packing.
After the tour, we got one FREE pack of potato chips each! :).

Shopping!

It was overwhelming to know that while on our way back home from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, we saw Tanger Outlets!!! I was grinning and my husband knew what that meant, lol! So, we dropped by to see some things. We thought they might have special deals on that day. We only visited 3-4 stores and I finally decided to just go. The entire mall is big and I can't bear the cold hopping in from store to store while I was on the outside...brrr!!! I bought some few things and that was enough ;).

Dutch Wonderland

It's such a perfect timing that our hotel (Continental Inn) was just beside this amusement place! Since we ran out of itinerary, it was the last stop we visited before heading back home.

Dutch Wonderland is a 48-acre amusement park that offers entertainments such as story telling and theatrical high diving, and with a large water-play area. It has 32 rides ideal for families. It's a small theme park, but you can still do lots of things in there.

We did the Sky Ride, hubby was scared and so was I, lol! We both have phobia of heights, but the height was not too high enough to give me shivers on the spine. That helped us eased a little bit :). Then we had fun riding on the tug boat as well.

The Strasburg Railroad

Aren't we glad we can still immerse ourselves into a rich, educational experience learning about steam railroading until today? This fun, informative experience is not only for students but for the entire public who enjoy and appreciate exploring the engines and rail cars up-close...and the best would be riding on these beautifully restored trains, don't you agree?

Well, we did had fun, indeed! Riding on a presidential coal-burning steam train as they would say is more than fun! It's like you walked through the past where famous people in the past had been through. We had a 45-minute (presidential) train ride that departed from East Strasburg station that took us through the Amish countryside to Paradise, PA then back. During the trip, you'll see more than 1,000 acres of Amish farm fields still plowed by horses and mules. You see Amish buggies on railroad crossings and cool farms!


The best part? You enjoy food and drinks and entertainment while aboard the steam train on Strasburg Railroad. A little bit of a change to that of visiting a zoo. LOL!

Visiting Strasburg Railroad is like experiencing romance and adventure in the early 20th century that comes to life.

The Amish Farm & House Tour

It's just interesting to be learning all about the lifestyles and beliefs of the Amish people. This tour was really informative. One good thing you should sign up for an Amish tour is you can surely learn about the correct information about the old Order Amish lifestyle.

We got the chance to visit the actual Amish community, saw 18th century farm house, wide variety of farm animals that they raise, an authentic Amish room school house, a typical Amish residential home, etc...

The Amish people don't want themselves being captured for photos. So, cameras are not their "cup of tea." Although you can take shots around the community as much as you want, just don't include them on your photo shoots! A belief you should respect, and they would respect you in return.

Longwood's "Eye of the Water"

This was our 4th visit to our favorite Longwood Gardens, but my first time to see this fountain called "Eye of Water." Obviously, it looks like an eye! :)).

This water feature only runs from mid-April to mid-October. Much more ideal to visit during summer!

I've learned that this "eye" sits above a 90,000 gallon reservoir which supplies the main fountain garden and the waterfall of the garden.

Celebration Station

We drove to Mesquite, TX and dropped by at Celebration Station to see what's in there and we reached the place super hungry! Good thing there is one place of pizza place inside where we ordered enough to eat.

This mini theme park has both indoor and outdoor entertainment complex. There are mini golf areas that you can play with - ideal for kids or families.

We thought of playing the mini-"putt-putt" as hubby would say, lol! It's cute and fun! By the way, I won the game with my hole-in-one twice! :).

Longhorn Cattle Sculpture Park

When you're in downtown Dallas, this park is easy to find. The park is located at Pioneer Plaza by the Dallas Convention Center and at the intersection of SOuth Griffin and Young Street.
The park is pretty obvious when you start seeing bronze statues of longhorns leaded by statues of 3 cowboys riding on their horses. It is landscaped with a flowing stream and waterfalls that leads to a small stream of water with some bronze cattle statues that are crossing through it. The sculptures are considered to be the largest bronze sculpture of their type in the world.

The park is based on honoring the Dallas cowboys' past by celebrating the trails that brought settlers to Dallas.

Just a note to keep in mind: Don't touch or ride on the sculptures during extreme hot or cold weather temperatures. I tried touching one of them during my visit one fine hot day in summer!...OUCH!, really hot! LOL!...almost burned one of my fingers!

The 40 Steps

This spectacular platform is located at the end of Narragansett Ave. The stone stairs goes down to the side of the cliff on a balcony overlooking the sea.

This historical landmark were popular during Newport's Golden Age where it used to be the gathering place for servants and workers close to the mansions.

From the landmark, you can see stunning views of the ocean, the mansions and the cliff sides.

Note: It's important to highly consider warning signs around the area. Wandering off the path can be dangerous particularly during summer when thick bushes and vegetation may run to the edge of the cliff making it hard for you to see dangerous areas to step on.

The 10-Mile Drive

There are so much things to do and see at Newport, Rhode Island. If your time is limited, the "10-Mile Drive" would be the best option to do to see most of the island's historical community, the fabulous recreational public parks and shorelines.
Did you know that the "10-mile drive" ranks as one of the most popular "drives" in the country?

The Ten Mile Drive which includes Newport's Ocean drive and Fort Adams is historical. It is also known as the scenic drive due to the impressive coastal views and historical landmarks. The directions are pretty much easy to follow since the place is small and most of the roads are one-way. You can print the driving directions online.

We had fun doing it! After all the muscle strain from the Cliff walk, this drive was much more relaxing!...and way much more convenient :).

By the way, summer is always a good weather to spend your time along the coastal views if you want to stay longer in the outdoors.
Take note: Other than summer, the rest of the season at RI will be cold!...I mean...REALLY COLD!

Tips For Driving An RV - 2

(continuation of Part 1)

• Showering. - To conserve water, shut it off while you lather in the shower, before turning it back to rinse.
• Driving. - It's a bad idea to exceed speed limits in an RV because you need extra distance to stop. Try finding long entry ramps when merging into highways to accelerate so you have enough space. Use your side mirrors, too.
• Hills. - If hills are too steepy, you won't be able to make it to the top, no matter how hard you push on the gas. It helps to buy a mountain guide available at truck stops so you can identify troublesome hills. Approach any grade over 10% with caution.
• Entry Step. - Most RV's have pull out entry steps so it's easy to get in and out. Make sure to stow the step before you drive. If it happened you left it out, and you're driving, you can't see it. When the step hits a curb or someone's car, you're in heavy trouble!
• Dumping. - Wait until the tanks are at least 3 quarters full before you empty them. Otherwise, they won't drain properly. The black tank is the sewer waste, and the gray tank is the water waste. Dump the contents of the black tank first so the soapy water from the gray tank can clean out the hose.
  

Tips For Driving An RV - 1

If you plan to rent an RV for an out of town trip or you have one of your own, you might want to check and recheck the following tips before you go on a long trip. It's always good to be prepared always!

• Parking. - Practice parking before going anywhere. If you're at a campground and you try backing up for the first time, you might hit something that might lead you into trouble.
• Directions. - Get meticulous directions. Let other people know you're driving a 36-foot motor home that needs the straightest, easiest route. Making a U-turn in an RV is a nightmare! You stop traffic!
• Pets. - Taking your pet with you is one great advantage with RVing. You don't need to leave your pet in a kennel at home or hotel room. You're bringing your home on the road, so do the same for your pet. Bring his stuff and all will be fine.
• Packing. - If you're renting, most companies offer packages with sheets, towels, dishes, pots and pans. These eliminates the hassles of having to pack those items.
• Fuel. - Most motor home generators automatically turn off before the fuel tank is completely empty. There's still some gas left to drive on, but you must fill the tank up right away.

(to be continued...)

Astor's Beechwood Mansion

It was such a great idea to add this mansion to our itinerary for a visit. It was not included on our mansion visit package tour , so we paid the fee for it alone.
The best thing on this tour is that you can take as many photos as you like inside.

The Living History Tours are done by Astor family members and friends, sharing all about the Victorian era lifestyles, all about the Astor family, and the Newport society.

In the tour, the tour guides talk to you as if you are one of the socialite guests whom they are expecting on a party and they would be telling you where to dress up and do your hairstyles :), the time of the dinner, etc...
This was funny!...the tour guide (acting as a servant) asked me; ..." Are you attending the party tonight?" Well, there was actually no party on that coming night, LOL! ALl you have to do is give her back a smart answer, hehehehe... So, I replied..."let's just see, we are not sure yet." :)).

This Beechwood Mansion was formerly the summer house of Mrs. Astor, - known to be the queen of American Society. The building is of course designed and made during the Gilded Age with white Italianate structure with yellow trim in the 18th century.

The mansion offers a lot of various tours mostly performance tours showcasing the life in the Gilded Age. Other tours are Victorian Murder Mystery (interesting), Candlelight Musical Tour, etc!
I got some few shots during the tour. Some were taken by my husband as we alternately take shots. It's always a good idea to have two cameras in hand. We got one each!

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Tips For Road Trippers (Part 2 of 2)

• Internet Access. - Grand stores such as Kmart and Sears have computers with free internet access (some stores in California and Hawaii). This is handy for anyone travelling without a PC or laptop who needs the internet.
• Firm Footing. - To avoid blisters during hikes, spray some of your antiperspirant on your ankles and heels just before you set out. It works just as it does under your arms - it prevents sweat, which when combined with friction causes painful sores.
• Charger Reminder. - Most if not all have experienced forgetting phone chargers in their rooms. Try writing "charger" in big black letters on a 5x7 index card and always keep it on a spot where in it will be the first one you can see when you open your luggage.
• Handy Deodorants. - Travel stress and fewer opportunities in a shower may result in odors especially under arms. Rub on a dab or two of alcohol-based hand sanitizer such as Purell, which are commonly available everywhere. It kills odor-causing bacteria, allows normal sweating and can last 24 hours or more! :).
• Fun Money. - If you're going to Disney with your kids, try buying Disney dollars at the Disney store and reward it to your kids when they are well-behaved ;). Once they are in the park, they can buy their own souvenirs at the Disney stores. How cool is that? :)
• Rub the Right Way. - If you need tape-roller lint brushes but are too bulky to pack, try one of those flat, circular, rubber jar openers. It takes almost no space on your luggage and works well as a roller.
  

Tips For Road Trippers (Part 1 of 2)

Going on a road trip? These are some tips that might help you lessen the hassles:

• Bring some snacks. - Snacks are crucial like munchies for kids.
• Encode Your Accounts. - If you have a list of important account numbers, insert a 3 or 4 digit dummy code into each member. If the list is lost, it'll be meaningless to anyone who isn't aware of the dummy code.
• Love Your Neighbors. - You can rely on them to gather your mail or pick up papers from your front yard. You can then return the favor back by buying souvenirs or collectible items from your trip for them.
• Cashing Out. - If you're often stuck with small coins and bills that aren't easy to convert back to dollars, you can solve this when you settle your hotel bills. You can pay first with the left over cash then use your credit card for the balance.
• Queasy does it. - Take anti-motion sickness pills or seabands with you. They mostly come in handy which can be kept in your purse.
• Detergent deterrent. - Mosquito bites are annoying. Dab a bit of liquid laundry soap on it. Not only will it stop the itching immediately, but the bite will go away in a day or two.

(to be continued)

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The Belcourt Castle

Location: Newport, Rhode Island

Did you know that this castle is considered to be unique among the mansions in Newport? It's because of its hunting lodge style composed of 60 rooms.
This castle is a 114-year old which has 50,000 square feet medieval style design.

Belcourt offers traditional tours (including ghost tours, too!) and is also famous for its antique collections.

We were suppose to sign up for a tour but we lacked time. It was more than an hour wait for the next tour schedule so we decided to just cancel it.

We did some photos just outside the castle, right close to the main entrance and at the front.

It might be good to try the ghost tours if you want spooky adventures! :).

The Cliff Walk

If there is one good exercise that you need to have in Newport, R.I., take the Cliff Walk. Take note that this might be strenous to some, but you can take control of it on your own. You can take slow walks to fast walks or jogs; - it's the way you like it.

The cliff used to be an undeveloped coastal shoreline in the 18th century. It was developed, redeveloped, and repaired at times in the older years.

This 3.5 mile picturesque walk overlooks the spectacular Atlantic coastline and named one of the "50 Places of a Lifetime."

Just some few things to bear in mind before you do the walk: - there are no restrooms along the trails, and no food/drink stands either. Be sure you have some fluids with you and use restrooms before you go.

Green Animals Topiary Garden

From Newport, we headed further to Portsmouth where the Green Animals Topiary garden is at. The garden consists 7 acres of land, a white summer residence, farm outbuildings, a pasture and a vegetable garden.

There are 80 topiaries in the whole garden with 21 animals and birds in addition to geometric and ornamental figures. These designs are sculpted from yew, California privet and English boxwood.

The garden is considered to be the oldest and most northern topiary garden in the US.

One part of the garden has an awesome scenic view when you are at the Victorian house overlooking the Narragansett Bay.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The museum has expanded! Art lovers, time to visit this museum when you are around Philly. A good news indeed for those who love photography, sculpture, fashion and textiles.

The Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building was added, which was the first expansion of the museum since it was opened 80 years ago.

The building was renovated costing to $90 million in public and private funds. Its interior features a skylit galleria that links the existing structure to a 59,000 sq. foot addition. There are four main galleries; a high-ceilinged space for sculpture, a gallery for works on paper, space for modern design, and a gallery for customes and textiles.

With the new expansion, the costume display can expand to more than five times its original size.

It's worth visiting for the art lovers, don't you think?

There will be a minimal admission fee to visit the Perelman Building alone. If you prefer visiting the whole museum, you have to pay at least $14 - to cover entrance to both buildings.

Enjoy the various displays of art! :)

RoseCliff - Newport, R.I.

Another Gilded-age mansion worth visiting is the Rosecliff. Today, it is considered one of America's most romantic settings for weddings.


Rosecliff is snow-white covered mansion with classic lines, and has the largest ballroom in Newport. Once captivating design inside the mansion is the heart-shaped staircase which provides the ideal setting for wedding occasions.

This house was completed in 1902 costing to $2.5 milion. It was then became the venues for many most lavished parties, fairy tale dinners including a party that featured the famed magician Harry Houdini.

The Elms - Newport, R.I.

Me at the back portion of The Elms

This mansion was formerly a summer residence of Mr. & Mrs. Edward Berwind from Philadelphia and New York. Berwind was famous in the coal industry where he got his wealth.

The Elms was built in the 18th century and completed in 1901 with a cost of $1.4 million. Its interior furnishings and decorations are Renaissance-inspired with accents of an 18th century French and Venetian paintings and Oriental Jades.

The Berwind couple obviously love the gardens with classical revivals that were developed between 1907 and 1914.

It also has marble and bronze sculptures, a park and with a lower garden that displays marble pavillions, fountains, a sunken garden and carriage house with garage.

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The Breakers - Newport, R.I.

While the Marble House is considered to be the extravagant summer house of the Vanderbilt family because of its extravagant architectural designs, The Breakers is considered to be the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages".

The Breakers were purchased as a wooden house by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt in the 18th century. It was then renovated to a villa replacing the earlier wood-framed house that was destroyed by fire.
Richard Hunt, (also the architect of Marble House) redesigned the villa creating a 70-room Italian Renaissance style palazzo as inspired by the 16th century palaces of Geno and Turin.

Furnishings and fixtures were done by Allard and Sons of Paris, while the relief sculpture was done by Karl Bitter, an Austro-American sculptor. The family quarters' decorations were courtesy of Ogden Codman, an architect from Boston.

The Marble House - Newport, RI

This is so far my favorite visit in seeing a mansion, - the Marble House. It was built in the 18th century and is one of the most extravagant summer house or "cottage" built for Mr. & Mrs. William Vanderbilt during America's Gilded Age, built in Newport, RI. The couple hiredRichard Morris Hunt as the builder and designer of the mansion.
Hunt was inspired with a neoclassic design and combined it with massive Corinthian columns, a 10-ton bronze, steel and crystal grille entranceway.

The main entry hall (as you can see above) is made entirely of yellow Sienna marble!

As you go along, you'll just run out of descriptions as you'll be amazed with the fully lavished designs all thorughout! If you want to visit, you can either opt to choose an audio tour for your convenience and learn the detailed history about Marble House.

NOTE: Strictly, photos are NOT allowed inside :(.

Rhode Island - The Ocean State

Rhode Island is famous of its nickname as "The ocean State" or to some it's called "Little Rhody." It's the smallest state in the US with only 1,545 square miles including Narragansett Bay. It's name was derived for the Isle of Rhodes (in the Mediterranean Sea ) or for its red clay. Adriaen Block, a Dutch explorer perhaps named it "Rood Eylandt" which means Red Island in Dutch.

Although the state is small, there are lots of interesting places and scenic visits to see. If you are planning a trip and you plan to be driving mostly, prepare for those narrow, mostly one-way roads in Newport. I am not sure driving around Providence, but we were in Newport most of our visits, so that was an experience on our part. If you have your map, you won't get lost...remember, it's just a small area :).

Buildings of ancient architectural designs such as mansions and castles are plenty to visit. They are mostly in one area in Newport.You can either choose to walk while visiting the mansions one at a time, or you can drive.

Aaahhh! We had a wonderful time visiting different mansions!

(more on my next post...)

Unique Trip Experiences to Switzerland

I haven't been to Switzerland yet, but I'm hoping someday my dream of visiting Switzerland will come true! I travel a lot in the US and doing all the itineraries as planned are all worth memorable.
It amazes me to know that there are lots of unique experiences to be done in Switzerland! Being a country of dramatic landscapes and with strong cultural influences, it must be a memorable experience to cherish.
Trip experiences can be enjoying and I believe it includes enjoying the culture of the country you are visiting as well.
Discover Swiss "Pearls" and you will be amazed that Switzerland has a lot of unique trip itineraries to enjoy. One of the activities worth doing that I would like best for example is to see the Grandstand View. I would also love to try the experience of doing the medieval papermaking. Just in case, it would be the most unique and productive trip experience I have done in all my trips. It's nice doing an actual activity and at the same time learning the history behind it.
I am basically a nature lover and I love to visit and learn various histories of nature, and as I see it, Switzerland has a lot to offer for travellers.

Here are my top 5 picks of the activities I consider unique and worth enjoying when visiting Switzerland:

Grandstand View

Staring an elephant in the face

Medieval Papermaking

Learning About Our Neolithic Ancestors

Ghost Walk through Zurich

Switzerland has a lot of special things to consider when visiting. Discover those "gems" today!

Our Rhode Island Adventure

I know I'm a little bit behind sharing our trip to Rhode Island, couple weeks ago. Although, I'm a li'l bit delayed I would like to share some few to begin with. I will try to recall all the places that we visited later.

Anyway, the whole trip was a lot of fun. The only thing that was a bit of a hassle on our part was that the place where we were supposed to stay (Lady Victorian Inn), wasn't able to accomodate us due to the fact that the in keeper messed up the date. Instead of putting on the correct date, the record said it was on another month! Harry, (the inn keeper's name) was apologetic, and was able to recommend us a nice place (another inn), the Spring Season Inn few blocks away from their place.

We started our planned itinerary that same day we arrived...and the day was so sunny and warm! :). I will continue on my next post :).

Disney's California Adventure - 3

Golden State:

• Soarin' Over California

This ride is like a virtual reality. You get to sit in an open simulated airplane and then see a seem-like breath taking scenes of California. The scenes are in a big screen but looks like you're in it! :). It feels like you're really up in the open air, and soaring and swooping like an eagle! Gosh! Did I tell I'm scared of heights?...I closed my eyes most of the time. LOL!

• Mission Tortilla Factory

This is fun thing to do if you love tortillas. You go take behind-the-scenes look at tortilla production. Of course, you'll always get a free taste! :).

• The Bakery Tour

Another tour where you can watch as bakers create fresh sourdough bread before your eyes. With free taste of a freshly baked dough! :).

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Disney's California Adventure - 2

There are lot of things to do inside, but I would only be sharing my experiences to the attractions I went into.

Hollywood Pictures Backlot:

1. The Twilight Zone-Tower of Terror - I thought this would only be a regular elevator ride with ghostly effects...well, I like those things, but hubby and I didn't have the idea of sitting in that huge elevator and had a free fall of more than 100 feet down (3 times)! Take note: Be sure to wear that seat belt...or else, you would find yourself flying and hit yourself all around, LOL! My legs were shaking on that ride and I won't do it again!

2. Turtle Talk with Crush - Good place to take your kids. You'll get to see a turtle called "Crush" who talks with the kids. An interactive chat session for kids and Crush is just cute to see him talking to the kids. Humorous turtle too! :).

"Bug's Land:

3. It's tough to be a Bug! - This is a 3D show with the usual 3D glasses that they provide to watch the show. On the show, you also get to feel crawling "friendly" bugs under your seat...eeewww! But above all, it's fun! Nothing creepy!

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Disney's California Adventure - 1

December 9 & 12, 2008
We had visited Disney twice since our hotel (Doubletree) is close to the park in Anaheim, California. It was nice to be in the park (in another place, lol!) due to the fact that we frequented Disneyworld in Florida the previous years...much bigger. But nothing else is much different when it comes to Disney. It's always a good thing to become "child-like" once in a while :).

Honestly, we enjoy kiddie rides better than the roller coasters and other high thrill rides, LOL! I and my husband are scared of heights, although in my case, I would always want to overcome and try thrilling rides, which I would end up NOT doing it when I'm alone, hahaha...

More coming on my next post.

See ya'll!

Drive Safe This Summer

For drivers, whether you like it or not, the fact is that the biggest cause of fatal car accidents is driver distraction.
Talking on cell phones for example is considered dangerous, according to the National Highway Traffic Administration. During summer, drivers are most likely to make calls thinking driving conditions are fine and it's just okay to take their mind off the road.

Did you know that when you compare reflexes and response time of a driver on a cell phone with that of a drunk driver, those ones on the cell phones face worse? And another thing, it's even not a valid reason using headsets because they aren't any safer! Drivers are 4x more likely to get into car crash when they're on any phone, even a hands-free one.

It's because conversations can lead to "inattention blindness" in which you miss up to 50% of safety cues, like flashing brake lights on the car infront of you.

So, next time you're on the road, buckle up, stow your cell phone away, - and pull over if you must take a call. A trip delay is much more worth than losing your life! That makes sense, right?

Drive safe!

Auto Body Shops

Here is one low cost auto body repair shop you should check - the Collision Repair Experts. They are large nationwide network of reliable collision experts that offer low cost auto body repairs. Colorado residents can now check auto body shops colorado for the nearest and most convenient places to go to. You can easily use their search box on the homepage to find those ones near them by providing their city or zip code. It's that easy!
And if you think you have what it takes to be considered as a collision expert, you can as well join the network of expert repair body shops with Collision Repair Experts. Call them today!

Lackawanna Coal Mine

A tour going underground! That's Lackawanna Coal Mine Tours in northeastern Pennsylvania. The tour begins with a 250-foot descent below the earth, through a mine car, once used by miners. You will be led by a tour guide to a one-half mile through the winding underground gangways and rock tunnel while explaining the mining geology, etc... The tour group will also experience the extreme darkness, the way the miners usually work.

The Anthracite Heritage Museum is located separately just next to mine in Mcdade Park. Here, more information will be learned about the history and the people in the region. The museum is open year-round, from 9AM to 5PM, Mon.-Sat. and noon to 5PM Sunday.

If you want to experience the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tours, it's an hour tour and are offered daily from 10AM-3PM frm April 1 to November. Or better yet, visit lackawannacounty.org

Have fun!

Discover Philly (Part 2 )

The National Constitution Center is worth visiting in learning America's history. The center is made of impressive limestone complex in which the famous opening words of the US Constitution was engraved on its facade. This center was opened in 2003. One of the favorites is the Signer's Hall, where life-size bronze statues of the Constitution's 39 signers and 3 dissenters are displayed. You can even choose to sign or dissent :).

The Old World Charm can be your historic dreams. This continues at the Thomas Bond House built in 1769. This is the former home of the cofounder of the Pennsylvania Hospital which was being restored. With it are 12 guestrooms and decorated with period furniture and all feature views of Welcome Park.

Ride The Ducks Tour provides you an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery from a duck's eye view on a 70-minute ride on the river. Once aboard, you first cruise the streets of Philly before splashing into the Delaware River.

More has to be discovered as you go along. So, enjoy your historic vacation.

Happy July 4th!!!!

Discover Philly (Part 1)

Philadelphia's old city neighborhood is a historical place where during the 1770's the founding fathers began America's quest for freedom and independence.

The Independence National Historic Park is considered to be the most historic square mile in America. It is now visited by millions of tourists every year (also known as the Independence Mall), which also includes the Liberty Bell Center and the Independence Hall.

Did you know that there are more than 200 years of American history to be explored in Philadelphia's Independence National Park?

Why not begin your visit at Independence Visitor Center. Here, it will be your first stop to Independence Hall. Tickets are available in first-come, fist-served basis, so be sure to get an early spot. It sells like hotcakes! Just close by is the Liberty Bell Center where you get up close with the bell, America's famous bell.
Your tour inside the hall will take you to the Assembly room where the declaration of Independence was adopted and where the Constitution was drafted and signed. You can further proceed outside to the Independence Square where the Declaration was first read. You can also visit Congress Hall, Old City Hall, and the Philosophical Hall. Then stop by at Carpenters Hall, Franklin Court, the 2nd Bank of the US and Todd House just within the steps of Independence Hall.

You might also want to explore the colonial graveyard with a $2 entrance fee, the fmous Christ Church Burial Ground where it was the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and his wife Deborah. The grave is visible from the sidewalk. Don't forget to toss a coin on Franklin's grave as a sign of good luck and respect :).

Visit Philadelphia Mint, the oldest mint in the country, where the first US coins were minted in the original facility.

Moshup Beach

This beach located at the foot of the famous Aquinnah Cliffs in Massachusetts is rated as one of the top 10 "best walking beaches in America. It's due to the fact that te Moshup sand is not too loose and not too hard packed for walking. It has a sandy seaside path on Martha's Vineyard, a perfectly scenic New England island.

To give you a clearer picture of the beach, just think about cobblestone streets, picket fences, fishing boats, lighthouses and church steeples.
Surfers will enjoy the gentle waves of the water and the scenery is breathtaking.

There are many things to be shared about this beach. Like for example, its 200-foot high walls of red clay are striated with various shades of green, gray, red, white and yellow. There are so much things to be treasured, such as the rainbow-colored cliffs, tide-smoothed sand, crashing waves of brilliant blue and sounds of sea birds are just one of the few.

The place, Martha's Vineyard island can be accessible by ferry or by air. During summer months, ferries are available at least a dozen times for 45 minutes each trip.

Enjoy your summer! :).

Concert at Morey's Piers, New Jersey

You deserve a break this summer! How about a concert watch while enjoying your stay at the beach? Here is the good news: There will be an upcoming Radio Disney Concert Series which will be held in Wildwood, New Jersey starting this June until August of this year at Morey's Piers. And the best thing is - the concert is FREE, plus many of your favorite top Radio Disney artists will be there. Sounds cool, huh?

And if you are looking for a place to stay, reserve your room online at Wildwood New Jersey motels. There's no other place that can give you world-class amusements such as Morey's Piers, as well as world class service of outstanding resort hotels in Wildwood.

No wonder why Morey's Piers is considered to be the best place for your New Jersey vacation this summer.

Whitefish Dunes

Along Lake Michigan's coastline lies an 865 pristine acres that serves to support a fragile ecosystem called Whitefish Dunes State Park. Haven't been to this place yet, but I think it's worth seeing and visiting.

Whitefish is in Door County in Wisconsin. There is the Whitefish Dunes beach that is accessible for a $10 vehicle sticker that can be availed at the Welcome Center of the park.

The beach is in fact selected by Wisconsin Trails magazine as "the best beach in the state", which is the most visited day-use park in Wisconsin.

The dunes offers marvelous hiking adventures such as the Brachiopod Trail where you see fossils of life that inhabited the place about 425 milion years ago when it was an ocean floor.
There's also a boardwalk and stairs that will take you on top of "Old Baldy" just to uniquely view the lake, as well as the forests and meadows nearby.

If you are one person who also avidly supports a wide diversity of habitats, this is an ideal place to go.

Have fun :).

Going Beach Bound

Summer is here!, so it's time to start enjoying some sun and sand, don't you think?

America is blessed to have amazing variety of beaches, from the great lakes to the gulf of Mexico.
San Diego, for example, is home port to the US Pacific Fleet, and just by seeing those vessels pass by close to shore is truly an awesome sight.

Have you been to Coronado Beach in California? Coronado consists of 3 separate beaches along the Pacific shoreline close to San Diego.

The north beach faces due south, and when the wind is just right, surfers enjoy the steep angled swells. Mainly, this beach is just lovely for swimming where water is warm and summer surf is mild.

The central beach is one of the most favorite of many for photography. It has fine sand with particles of mica creating a golden sparkle. Just be sure you wear your flip flops when the weather gets too hot!

The shores, another beach which is also called sprawling beach is where mostly long-boarders do their stuff.

There you go...let's go beach bound! It's officially summer time! :).

Caladesi Island

So far, one of my most favorite place to go tripping is Florida. If I'm not finding myself in Disneyworld, mostly that I am heading to the beach. I'm a tropical person, one major thing why I love Florida, weatherwise.

If I'm going beach bound, it might be good to try going to Florida's Gulf Coast, - Caladesi Island. Haven't been here yet, but if you want to get away from the bustling city, and want to see what Florida was like before condos, beach houses and commercial developments, here's the place.

Caladesi Island State Park has 600-acres and only accessible by boat. Ferries leave from Dunedin's Honeymoon Island every hour, year round.

Caladesi has beautiful white sand and it will be here that you will see why the beach is recognized as one of the best beaches in America.
The downside of it is that visitors who arrive by ferry can stay on the island for only 4 hours, but you can plan to have a well-packed activities in this back-to-nature paradise.

A swim in a clear gulf water is a good start, or take a stroll along the nature trails.

Wow! How I wish I would be crossing this paradise island someday.

White Water Rafting, Anyone?

They say it's wild but contained...haven't tried white water rafting and I don't plan to do it in the future, LOL!
But for those who love a much more unique white water rafting, visit Maryland's Adventure SPorts Center International. In the westernmost corner of Maryland, is the nation's first recirculating mountaintop white-water course.
Can you imagine driving to the top of the mountain just to paddle down a river?

If you go, the white-water season opens in late April through mid-October, with various festivals and competitions featured on weekends.

The Maryland Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) is overlooking Deep Creek Lake atop the 3,110 ft.-high Marsh mountain, known as the home of the Wisp Ski Resort, putting millions of gallons of lake water in Wisp's snow-making ponds to use in a wild water ride that gives its own thrills after winter melts away.

If you love this sport, expect to go there and be wet. Helmets, life vests and paddles are provided. A guide will take care of the rest.

So, are you a risk taker?

Payday Loan

Are you running short of cash until your next pay day? Then, why not try a loan service that offers simple loans until payday, wherein applying online is as easy as 100% and can even get a decision instantly! Cool, isn't it?

You even don't have to worry about credit checks and paper works. Faxless Pay Day Loan is the only one you need when you run into financial emergencies. Apex Pay Day Loans has fast approvals online with loan amounts up to $1,500. It is because they specialize in fast online services whenever you need a quick payday loan.

You don't have to bug your family or friends asking money for a loan, because you can safely apply online confidentially anytime even holidays, at your own convenience at the comfort of your own home. It's easy and fast!

Nature Tripping at Wetlands Institute

If you want to get back to nature, this is one place you should consider.

At the seashore, the elemental attractions of sun and surf are dazzling; however, it's the subtle discoveries that truly amaze: the whirls of moon snail shells, the horseshoe crabs (looking like prehistoric tanks) or the quick skittering of sandpipers in and out of the ocean foam.

Perched at the edge of 6,000 acres of pristine coastal wetlands, this nonprofit institute offers a welcoming approach to the island, reminding visitors to take stock of their surroundings. Feeding herons, egret and ibis are visible from the road, and careful travelers may even spy a diamond-backed terrapin.

The center hosts activites for everyone. Passive observers may be content to simply watch the masses of migrating water birds and raptors; help feed the horseshoe crabs, sea stars and baby terrapins in the aquarium; or view emerging baby ospreys via the nest-cam.

Sunsets over the salt marshes are stunning. But the institute really caters to hands-on exploration, from discovering the ecosystems along the trail and tidal creek, to guided dune walks and back bay kayaking adventures.

Aquarium feedings are every Tuesday through Thursdays at 3:30pm and Saturdays at 2pm. Totally turtle Tuesdays and fabulous family nights on Thursdays are the perfect family-friendly ways to spend a vacation evening at the beach.

Your Radiator Hotline

If you are in need of help finding the right radiator for your Dodge, check radiator.com. Dodge Radiator is just easy to find when you shop online at radiator.com whether you are looking for a stock or replacement radiator, or an upgrade for your sedan, or replacement for your truck or van, - they all have it!
Radiator.com is considered to be a radiator hotline online. If you need help, you can even ask your queries online and their helpful mechanic experts are willing to assist you all throughout. Not only that. They also offer a complete auto and car part inventory at wholesale prices which includes car lights, mirrors, bumpers, body parts, etc...
You can further contact them for more information on Dodge radiators, cooling systems or maintenance as well.

Finding a Good Technician

So how do you find a good mechanic? The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) offers these additional tips on finding a good mechanic:

• Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one. You can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask friends and associates for recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is valuable.
• Check with local consumer organizations about the reputation of any business you're considering, Inquire about complaints and the rate of resolution of complaints.
• Think in advance about how you'll get to and from the shop when dropping off and picking up your vehicle. This way, you can avoid having to choose a shop based solely on location.
• Look for shops displaying industry and Better Business Bureau membership, awards, repair rates and modern equipment.
• Once you've chosen a shop, ask if they offer written estimates and warranties on repairs.
• If you're having car problems, make specific notes, about sounds, odors, acceleration or mileage changes and when problems occur. Also note if they're constant or periodic, at what speed they happen and whether the vehicle is cold or warm, etc...,so you can present as much information as possible to your technician.
  

Weekender in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic, a sun-kissed island glued to Haiti, is fast becoming a hot Carribean getaway. On the southern coast is the bustling metropolis of Santo Domingo; to the east is Punta Cana, a resort hub where cheap all - inclusive tours abound. For unreal eco-adventures, head north to Puerto Plata and Cabarete.

SLEEP. Feel free to crash at Maxim Bungalows (maximbungalows.com) at Juan Dolio and Cofresi beach. These breath taking resorts feature 5 star amenities like lavish suites, resort wide wi-fi, and a 17,000 sq. foot spa. You can take a chauffeur-driven SUV to the Carribean's best golf courses or charter Maxim's own 54-foot yacht, Independence, for private open-water parties or stop at Castaway Beach, a secluded nook perfect for snorkeling and barbecuing.

DRINK. Locals and tourists alike flock to Punta Cana's Occidental Grand Hotel for Mangu' Disco (800-858-2258), a dance den featuring fire eaters and thumping house music. In Cabarete Beach, you can hang ten with the surfer set at Onno's bar (809-571-0461), then down pina coladas all night at the popular open-air bar Lax (809-710-0569).

EAT. Don't leave Santo Domingo until you've tried the sancocho (a hearty stew of meat, sweet potatoes, and cassava root) at El Conuco (809-686-0129). Big night out? Recharge with mango smoothies and burgers at EZE bar & Restaurant in Cabarete Beach (809-880-8779), then dine on ceviche and curried fish at Natura Cabanas (809-858-5822).

Manila Ocean Park

April 19, '09

As a treat, we took the kids to the park. The park is located just behind Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, Manila. Our hotel was just close to the area (Swagman Hotel) just along the corner of Flores St. and Roxas Blvd. The admission fee is 400 Php for adults and 350 Php for kids. The fun will start at the oceanarium.

The Oceanarium is considered to be a large educational facility aimed at inculcating love for the environment both for the young and old. It contains vital information on climate change and global warming as well as its effects on marine biodiversity.

The oceanarium journey:

The facility is divided into 7 parts;
1. Agos (The Flow)
2. Bahura (Reef)
3. Laot (Fishing ground)
4. Buhay na Karagatan (The Living ocean)
5. Ang Kalaliman (The Deep)
6. Pagi (Stingray)
7. Pating (Shark)

In addition to, a multi-media facility is included mostly for kids where they can do colorings, paintings or interactive learning.

At the 2nd floor is called the Fish Spa where you can catch the view of the ocean or the shark viewing area.

10 Grand Contest

If you are a Charter customer, you might be one lucky customer to be rewarded. Charter Cable is giving away $10,000 prize for one lucky customer and four 52" HDTV's. Take note that this contest is open for those who uses Charter On Demand cable. If you are still looking for a digital cable service, why not check Charter On Demand from Charter. You can get as much as over 6,000 movies and shows to choose from and at least 1,000 movie titles that you can watch for free!

The Win 10 Grand Contest Page shows you the complete details on their homepage. The good thing here is you get the chance to play every week so you get more chances of winning! For the month of May, you answer the questions all for 4 weeks and enter for your chance to win BIG for the grandprize which is $10,000.

Every week, one 52" HDTV will be given to each for four lucky winners. Cool deals, huh? So, visit and check their contest page today and start answering the questions :).

Charter has been made more convenient for your updates that you want as well. Follow them at Charter’s Twitter Feed for regular updates. What else should you look for in a cable? Stick with Charter today!