Christmas is the perfect time to celebrate the love of God and family
and to create memories that
will last forever.
Jesus is God’s perfect,
indescribable gift.
The amazing thing is that
not only are we able
to receive this gift,
but we are able to share it
with others on Christmas
and every other day
of the year.”
~ Joel Osteen
Do you believe in magic? The spirit of the season was alive with festivities in the quaint little town of Hanapepe, Kauai, where music and art thrive. Despite the late afternoon downpour that left scattered puddles along the weather beaten pot-holed street, the aromas of sweet and salty, grilled and spicy foods hung in the air. Without a doubt, sampling and tasting island favorites was going to be the buzz of the night. No worries, challenge accepted. Twinkling lights were strung from rooftop to rafter setting the tone for glee and laughter. While strolling along, with hardly a clue, above the town a shooting star left a streak of light that was nothing short of amazing. Suddenly, as if on cue, distant music began to captivate the crowds. Like a moth to flame, people emerged from the shadows to witness Kimberly Hope McDonough as she eloquently performed a medley of classical-crossover music on an electric violin. Effortlessly, she flowed from progressive Michael Jackson tunes to a classical Phantom of the Opera ensemble as well as a Charlie Daniels Americana favorite. Cheers and applause closed the performance. Without a doubt, the joy of Christmas is alive and well in “Kauai’s Biggest Little Town.”
“There will always be a desire
for something new,
fresh, and innovative,
as well as a yearning
and respect for timeless
elegance and beauty.”
~ Helena Christensen
“If you are fearful,
a horse will back off.
If you are calm and confident,
it will come forward.
For those who are often flattered or feared,
the horse can be a welcome
mirror of the best in human nature.”
~ Clare Balding
Canadian Central Memorial Park is Calgary’s Oldest Park! Geometric pathways cross-cross skillfully manicured gardens surrounding the equestrian statue as the main focal point showcased in downtown Calgary, Canada. “The Horseman of the Plains” is a tribute to all Albertan soldiers who fought in the Second Boer War from 1899-1902. Inscriptions on two granite benches showcase the statue at each end immortalizing their bravery. Artistic fountains illuminate the water with colorful hues, adding to the ambience. Central Memorial Park engulfs one entire block in the heart of the city. Beltline residents as well as visitors, tourists, and downtowners appreciate the numerous benches and café tables available when longing for a brief interlude from daily responsibilities. Pack a lunch, toss a coin into the fountain, make a wish, and breathe easy for awhile.
“You can take Elvis.
You can take Marilyn Monroe.
Success and fame will not be the answer
if something inside of you
is bothering you,
if things in your mind
aren’t going right.”
~ Linda Evans
Fairmont Banff Springs is Real-Life Castle! In childhood fairytales and adolescent dreams there’s always a knight in shining armor who lives in a castle in the mountains. Ladies, I’m here to tell you such a place exists. I know because I have been there. In fact, the Fairmont Banff Springs is known as the “Castle in the Rockies” located at the edge of the quaint alpine village of Banff, Alberta, Canada. With its attention to detail, sophisticated respectability, luxurious furnishings, and majestic views, is it any wonder it continues to attract celebrities and royalty from all over the world? Feel free to wander aimlessly throughout its tapestried halls and winding staircases. At the end of the day, you may find yourself in the romantic alcove of Rundle Lounge sipping hand-crafted cocktails overlooking a manicured garden or spacious terrace. Just remember to bring your own Prince Charming.
“See, heroes never die.
John Wayne isn’t dead,
Elvis isn’t dead.
Otherwise you don’t have a hero.
You can’t kill a hero.
That’s why I never let him get older.”
~ Mickey Spillane
Romantic Hideaway or Artist’ Retreat? Deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, nestled along the cerulean banks of Bow Lake, sits a rustic log cabin and stone lodge where cell phones have ceased functioning and television sets have gone missing. Travelers and tourists seek refuge at the red-roofed Num-ti-jah Lodge when the urge arises to “get away from it all”. (The staff has access to internet and phones in case of an emergency.) Step outside the front door to a glacier backdrop that captivates the inner poet and the novice photographer as well as the unbridled passions of writers, artists, or sculptors. But don’t stop there. Fishermen wile away the hours from dawn to dusk before returning to a warm fire. Hikers explore foot trails across the lake for a vantage point that spots the red roof as a way back home at the end of the day. Enliven the senses and embrace Alberta, Canada.
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