Underground Oahu Night Clubs

While there are many bars and night clubs in the Oahu area that are at street level or higher, there are also several popular clubs that are located underground in the basement levels of areas such as downtown and Chinatown. These clubs offer a range of amenities, such as dance floors, full bars, and even gourmet food. It can take an extra few minutes to find these places because of their locations, so be sure to get directions before heading out.

Bar 35

This basement level club sits in downtown Chinatown and offers one of the widest selections of beers (over 150) in Hawaii. Live DJs play a variety of music most nights of the week, and patrons can sit indoors or on the outdoor patio. Gourmet pizzas are made to order by Valentini's Fusion, who hand-makes such pizza pies as the Smokey Heaven with smoked salmon, red onions, capers, and cream cheese. Bar 35 also hosts regular events such as Wii tournaments, 80s music nights and dance events.

Bar 35

35 N. Hotel St.

Honolulu, HI 96817

808-537-3535

bar35hawaii.com

Next Door

This underground club seeks to be not only entertaining but also visually striking. The walls are made of red brick and the bar is made completely out of concrete. Next Door hosts live DJs as well as live bands on a regular basis. They also have a dance hall as well as a cinema house where they hold special events. Theme parties and mixers also make the schedule on a monthly basis.

Next Door

43 N. Hotel St.

Honolulu, HI 96817

808-548-6398

nextdoorhnl.com

Mai Tai Bar

This club offers live music almost every night, and some nights will even play host to two different bands. They also offer a "late night" happy hour from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. for those who are looking for deals on drinks but can't go out right after work. They have a large mai tai menu as well as a full bar with both mixed drinks and beers. The Mai Tai Bar chefs prepare sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, and appetizer plates as ordered, some of which are included in the happy hour specials.

Mai Tai Bar

1450 Ala Moana Blvd.

Honolulu, HI 96814

808-947-2900

maitaibar.com

Tags: Next Door, downtown Chinatown, happy hour, Honolulu 96817, Hotel Honolulu, Hotel Honolulu 96817

Thrifty Meal Ideas

Save money by cooking inexpensive meals.

The cost of meals is a significant portion of every budget, and frugal people look to save money wherever possible. Most people are aware that cooking at home is much less expensive than eating in restaurants. You can save even more money by following some simple guidelines when you cook. Choose your ingredients with a budget in mind, and you'll end up with a lot more money in your pocket. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Stir Fry

There are an almost endless variety of stir fry possibilities, and they can start with leftovers. Invest in a good, heavy-duty wok and use it at least once a week to turn leftovers into tasty and unusual meals. The basic stir fry recipe is to cook vegetables in a wok, add a protein source and a sauce, and cook it all together. Serve the results over rice. Use your imagination to cook a different stir fry every week.

Vegetarian

Meat is the most expensive ingredient in most main dishes. Cook vegetarian meals one day a week. Make chili or bean casseroles, investigate Mexican or Italian dishes, or indulge in a large colorful salad with cheese cubes. Reduce the amount of meat that you eat on other days of the week to create even more savings.

Lunch

If you are in the habit of eating lunch in restaurants or fast food places, stop it immediately. Invest in a set of lunch containers, including an attractive bag and a wide-mouth thermos. Pack your lunch every day to save a lot of money. Pack leftovers from dinner the night before, create attractive salads or make homemade sweet treats. Make a tasty meal that you'll look forward to eating, so you don't feel deprived.

Soup

Turn small bits of leftovers into a tasty soup, and you'll create a filling meal without buying any new food. Use leftover chicken or turkey bones with some carrots and onions to create a broth, and add any leftover veggies you have in the refrigerator. You can add black beans and salsa for a tortilla-style soup, or potato slices and ham bits for a German-inspired version.

Breakfast for Dinner

There is no law that breakfast food has to be eaten only at breakfast time. Switch your meals up once in a while and create an inexpensive breakfast feast for dinner. Make piles of pancakes, broil a package of sausage, and slice strawberries for a side dish. Have an omelet night to use up leftover bits of meats and cheeses. Create a classic brunch menu for dinner to save on costs.

Tags: even more, into tasty, leftovers into, leftovers into tasty, more money, save money

Nancy Drew Pc Game List

Help Nancy Drew collect clues and solve mysteries.

Computer game publisher Her Interactive has been publishing Nancy Drew PC games since 1998. Some of the games are related to the books; some games are original stories. They have two main types of games. The Adventure Game Series are in-depth whodunit mysteries, often requiring players to immerse Nancy in her surroundings while avoiding making deadly decisions. The Dossier Series is meant to be fast and easy for casual gamers to pick up and play.

The Haunting of Castle Malloy

The Haunting of Castle Malloy is a 2008 Nancy Drew Adventure Game. The groom in the Simmons-Mallory wedding is rumored to have been targeted and kidnapped by a banshee. The less superstitious believe his disappearance is a practical joke. The player must have Nancy unravel clues and superstitions to find the groom, while dealing with supposed ghostly interferences. Set in Ireland, the landscape, castle and character speech patterns lovingly reflect Irish charm. The game includes mini-games and chores. The minimum system requirements include Windows XP/Vista and 1GB of hard drive space.

Ransom of the Seven Ships

Ransom of the Seven Ships is a 2009 Nancy Drew Adventure Game. Players get to see Nancy's best friends, George and Bess, for the first time. Nancy needs to solve the mystery to save Bess. Bess has been abducted while the three were at the Bahamas for vacation. Players have to dive, sail and interact with the animals on the island. The game includes two difficulty settings and re-playable mini-games. Players get to control both Nancy and George. Many of the puzzles have time limits. Players must avoid making fatal mistakes while exploring the beautifully rendered scenery of the islands. Minimum system requirements include Windows XP/Vista and 1GB of hard drive space.

Warnings at Waverly Academy

Warnings at Waverly Academy is a 2009 Nancy Drew Adventure Game. Nancy is going undercover at a private, all-girls boarding school. Valedictorian candidates are falling prey to dangerous accidents. Players are challenged to immerse Nancy completely in the school atmosphere. This includes running the school snack bar, text messaging friends, cramming for projects and sneaking into rooms to take cell phone pictures of possible evidence. Different tasks involve different skills to solve them. This makes the game quite challenging. The game includes two difficulty settings, and its minimum system requirements are Windows XP/Vista and 1GB of hard drive space.

Lights, Camera, Curses

Lights, Camera, Curses is a 2009 Nancy Drew Dossier game. Players must find hidden objects throughout 19 detailed settings. If you earn enough points, you unlock an alternate ending. The game also includes bonus levels and re-playable mini-games. The plot involves strange happening on the set of a movie remake called "The Pharaoh." Nancy is called in to solve the mystery on what, or who, is causing these strange accidents. The minimum system requirements include Windows XP/Vista and 300 MB of hard drive space.

Resorting to Danger

Resorting to Danger is a 2009 Nancy Drew Dossier Game. There is a prankster bomber at the Redondo Spa, and Nancy is asked to solve the case. Players must play through levels looking for hidden objects and beating mini-games. As a Dossier game, play is fast paced. There are multiple endings available. Depending on how the game is played, a player may come to one of six possible endings. This gives the game great replay value. Mini-games are re-playable. The minimum system requirements include Windows XP/Vista and 300 MB of hard drive space.

Tags: Nancy Drew, drive space, hard drive, hard drive space, system requirements

Things To Do In Kahului Maui

Kahului tourists can take in the region's natural beauty.

Located in central Maui, Kahului is the largest community on the island. Visitors can participate in a range of activities that explore Maui's culture, heritage and natural beauty. No matter what your travel budget, Kahului has something to offer with activities that range from free to hundreds of dollars. Additionally, due to Kahului's central location, visitors can easily travel to other areas of the island.

Maui Arts & Cultural Center

Established in 1994, Maui Arts & Cultural Center is central Maui's visual and performing arts complex. Maui Arts offers art education and Hawaiian cultural programs, music, dance and theater performances. It also exhibits local and international art and hosts movie screenings. As of September 2010, future exhibits and shows include Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Solo Sessions with Jake Shimabukuro, Maui Ukulele Festival, and Matthew Thayer and the Maui News: Thirty Years of Photojournalism.

The complex offers free guided gallery tours during which visitors receive background information on exhibits and educational discussions. Maui Arts also sponsors artwork tours for children in grades three through 12. These tours educate students on artistic concepts and techniques through the use of hands-on activities and artist instruction.

As of September 2010, general admission to Maui Arts is free; however, the children's artwork tours cost $6 per student.

Maui Arts & Cultural Center

1 Cameron Way

Kahului, HI 96732

808-244-8850

mauiarts.org

Sunshine Helicopters

Sunshine Helicopters, based in Kahului, offers air tours of Maui, Molokai, Big Island Hawaii and Kauai. Guests can view erupting and dormant volcanoes, rain forests, sea cliffs, waterfalls and many of Hawaii's other scenic locations.

Sunshine Helicopters offers four Maui helicopter tours all departing from Kahului. Each tour ranges from 25 to 65 minutes and includes flights aboard the company's FX Star or WhisperStar helicopters. Highlights of the Maui tours include the West Maui Mountains and "Wall of Tears," whale watching and the world's steepest sea cliffs.

As of September 2010, Sunshine Helicopter tours of Maui range from $165 to $420.

Sunshine Helicopters

1 Kahului Airport Road

Hanger #107

Kahului, HI 96732

800-871-0722

sunshinehelicopters.com

Hike Maui

Established in 1983 and based in Kahului, Hike Maui specializes in hiking tours of Maui's waterfalls, rain forests and mountain ridges. Visitors can choose one of five hikes that range from easy to strenuous and last three to 11 hours.

Short Waterfalls Walk is a short hike to two valley waterfalls. Participants can swim and jump from the falls' 10-foot rock ledges, as well as rope swing. East Maui Waterfalls and Rain Forest Hike, the company's most popular tour, is a hike into a Maui valley that includes 10- to 40-foot waterfalls, swimming pools, streams and rain forests. Participants can shower in the falls, rope swing into the pools and learn about Maui animal and plant life.

As of September 2010, Hike Maui prices range from $75 to $154 per person. Prices include an experienced guide, transportation to the trails and a fruit and sandwich lunch.

Hike Maui

285 Hukilike St., Suite B-104

Kahului, HI 96732

808-893-2515

hikemaui.com

Tags: Maui Arts, Hike Maui, range from, September 2010, Sunshine Helicopters, Arts Cultural

Time Travel Costume Ideas

Time travel costumes can take your character into the future or back into the past.

You want a time travel costume idea for a costume party, science fiction play or Halloween activity. Time travel movies and television shows are invaluable sources of costume ideas. Not only can movies and television shows spark your imagination, they can entertain you while you research. Whether you want your costume to signify travel back in time or into the future is up to you.

"Planet of the Apes" Costume Ideas

You can monkey around with a futuristic Dr. Zaius, Zira, Lucius or Cornelius costume from the movie, "Planet of the Apes." If you prefer to stick to a more human costume, the time traveling astronauts Taylor, Landon or Dodge are options to explore. You can also impersonate Nova, the futuristic female human in the first two movies of this series. You can even create a Statute of Liberty costume to reenact the eerie beach scene from this movie series.

"Back to the Future" Costume Ideas

If you prefer a more modern movie on which to base your costume, "Back to the Future," ideas may interest you. You can create your own DeLorean time machine costume and pretend to drive others back or forth in time. Characters that you can impersonate include Marty McFly, Emmett "Doc" Brown, Biff Tannen, Jennifer Parker or Einstein.

"Doctor Who" Costume Ideas

The characters from the science fiction series "Doctor Who" are sure to inspire you in your quest for the ultimate time traveling costume. You can choose an outfit to mimic such monstrous races as the Cybermen, Drahvins, Judoons, Sea Devils or Weeping Angels. You may want to be the time traveling Tardis. Other options for time traveling character costumes from this television series include Doctor Who, Abigal Pettigrew, Amy Pond or Kazran Sardick.

"The Jetsons Meet The Flintstones" Costume Ideas

If you are looking for whimsical time traveling costume ideas, use "The Jetsons Meet the Flintsones" to propel your search. You can choose to be the Jetson's dog, Astro, or their housekeeping robot, Rosie. The Jetson family members include George, Judy, Jane and Elroy. You may want to dress as Fred, Barney, Wilma, Betty, Bamm-Bamm or Pebbles. You can even be Dino the dinosaur.

Tags: time traveling, Costume Ideas, Back Future, Costume Ideas, from this, into future

Unique 16th Birthday Party Ideas

A sweet 16 celebration is an event that teens look forward to as an important party.

The sweet 16th birthday celebration is a milestone event in a young person's life. A party is a traditional way to celebrate the birthday, and a theme can help to plan the d cor and food for the event. Discuss the theme with the teen before making any plans for the celebration. Does this Spark an idea?

Beach Party

Creating a beach theme for your teen's birthday celebration requires tropical decorations and an island menu. An outdoor party by the pool is the perfect place for a beach-themed sweet 16 party. Use tiki torches to decorate the backyard, and set up tables full of festive tropical foods. Use tropical flowers such as orchids to decorate the buffet table. Set up lounge chairs in the yard for guests to sit on during the party. Play tropical music along with music your teen selects for dancing.

Winter Theme

Teenagers who have a birthday in the winter months are limited to indoor parties for a sweet 16 celebration. Embrace the cold weather, and use it for the theme of the party. A winter theme party includes decorations with colors of icy blue and shiny silver. Create snowflake decorations, and hang them in the hall or your home to celebrate the event. White and blue Christmas lights also make the room dramatic. Scatter snowflakes on the buffet table, and serve hearty dishes for the meal such as beef stew, potatoes and biscuits. Add some snow banks to the dance floor to give the appearance of an ice rink.

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a wild celebration that teens will enjoy for a sweet 16 party. Have the guests dress up in full masquerade costumes for a mysterious atmosphere. Decorate with Mardi Gras beads, and serve food such as crab cakes, shrimp and jambalaya. Decorate in shades of purple, green and gold with balloons, ribbon and tableware. A Mardi Gras party requires a DJ and plenty of dancing throughout the night.

Formal Party

An elegant formal party is a grown-up way to celebrate a sweet 16 party. Have the teens dress in elegant attire, and have a sit-down dinner for the event. Decorate with centerpieces, white tablecloths and fine tableware. Use flowers around the room to add to the elegant d cor. Serve gourmet dishes for the teens, and plan for a DJ and dancing after the meal.

Tags: Mardi Gras, sweet party, birthday celebration, buffet table, Decorate with, party Have

Trips To The Trail Of Tears

Oklahoma is the final destination of the Trail of Tears.

The Trail of Tears follows the route the Cherokee Nation took after the U.S. Army forced them from their southeastern homelands into Indian Territory, what is now Oklahoma. The journey led to the death of more than 4,000 Cherokee Indians. Today, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, their destination, is the tribal capital for the Cherokee Nation. In 1987, Congress sanctioned the trail as a National Historic Trail and the National Parks Service maintains it. Whether it is a day trip to a historic site or following the entire trail from Georgia to Oklahoma, traveling the Trail of Tears will acquaint you with the travails that the Cherokee Nation endured.

Geographic Considerations

The Trail of Tears stretches from Georgia to Oklahoma, but not in a direct route. The trail stretches as far north as Illinois, arching through Missouri. Deviations also wind through central Tennessee and follow the Mississippi River down into the border of Arkansas and Tennessee. The trail unites in Arkansas, close to the border or Oklahoma. The states included in the trail are North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The course of the trail resulted from the foraging of food on the long trip West and following water routes. When planning a trip on the Trail of Tears, consider the geographic implications and time constraints.

Following Trail Markers

A trip on the Trail of Tears could last anywhere from a day or two of touring the sites to a complete tour following the automobile route. The National Parks Service has six markers set up along the route to denote the significance of certain sites and to let travelers know they are on the right path. The Auto Route sign is set up to guide drivers along all-weather roads from Georgia and North Carolina to Tennessee. The Local Tour Route markers denote an area off the main trail, through small sections of the state. The roads on this route are varied and include off-road terrain. Crossing markers alert travelers of existing roads on the trail. Original Route marks are set up on what is accepted as the original path the Cherokee followed. Historic Site Name markers point to historic sites. Site identification markers let travelers know they are at the entrance to a park or other important site. Keep an eye out for any signs along the way.

Attractions

Various historic sites are set up along the Trail of Tears -- both federally run and privately owned. The sites include museums dedicated to the Cherokee tribe and national parks. The attractions have varied opening and closing times, amenities and restrictions. Some are road-side attractions off the main auto route and some are harder to access. The National Parks Service lists 56 attractions across nine states. Three sites are in North Carolina, 11 in Tennessee, eight in Arkansas, six in Georgia, seven in Illinois, six in Missouri, five in Alabama, seven in Kentucky and three in Oklahoma.

Accommodations

The trail passes through several major cities on the tour. Securing accommodations in local hotels or motels is an option in those cities. Camping off the trail is also an option, as several of the national parks have options that include primitive camping, campgrounds with facilities and sites with recreational vehicle hook-ups.

Tags: Trail Tears, Cherokee Nation, from Georgia, National Parks Service, North Carolina

What Drinks Can Be Made With Pear Vodka

Pear vodka has a delicate, fruity taste that goes well with pineapple or orange juice. All of the following drinks should be shaken with ice and served on the rocks, except for the Green Pear Martini. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Green Pear Martini

Peel the skin from one large kiwi slice. Cut it and a large cucumber slice into quarters. Muddle them with 1/8 oz. of simple syrup in a shaker. Add ice, 1 1/2 oz. pear vodka and 1/2 oz. sour apple liqueur. Shake and strain the drink into a martini glass.

The Lucky Pears Faux-jito

Blend together 2 oz. of white grape juice, 1/2 oz. of lime juice, 1 3/4 oz. of pear vodka, 1/4 of an oz. of Midori and 1 tsp. brown sugar.

Soda

A pear vodka and soda is a light drink perfect for spring and summer. Simply add 1 oz. of pear vodka to a glass of seltzer.

American Dream

Shake 2 oz. pear vodka, 1/2 Cointreau, 1/2 oz. cherry liqueur and 1 oz. lime juice. Top it off with a sprig of mint and a dash of grenadine.

French Pear Martini

Combine 1 1/2 oz. of pear-flavored vodka with 2 oz. of St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur and 1/4 oz of lemon juice. An apple slice is the garnish.

Partridge in a Pear Tree

Mix 1 1/4 oz. of pear vodka with 1/2 oz of peach-flavored schnapps, then fill the rest of the glass with equal parts of grapefruit juice and lemon-lime soda.

Tags: pear vodka, Pear Martini, Green Pear, Green Pear Martini, lime juice

Spa Vacations For Single Women

Many spas offer solo specials for single women.

Going to a spa is a way to unwind, release tension in your body, and rejuvenate your spirit. Some spas are women only or have special packages for single women. These packages are specifically tailored with women in mind. A single women, whether traveling solo or with a bunch of their single girlfriends will find that there are spa options that are ideal for single women.

Calistoga Golden Haven Hot Springs

Golden Haven Hot Springs is located in Napa Valley, California's wine country, and specializes in rejuvenating with e Calistoga Hot Springs mineral water and with their Calistoga Mud Baths. Calistoga Golden Haven offers specials for singles; a three-hour Solo Day Spa Special or a Solo Overnight Special with spa treatments. Treatment includes a Calistoga Mud Bath, one-hour massage, one-hour herbal facial, and a guide to local wineries that feature complimentary wine tastings. The overnight include as stay in a superior room at the Calistoga Lodge. There is also a Girlfriends Spa Special for women who want to bring their friends along.

Calistoga Golden Haven Hot Springs

1713 Lake Street

Calistoga, CA 94515

goldenhaven.com

Golden Door Spa

The Golden Door Spa was created for women by a woman, and except for a few weeks that cater to men and special, is for women only. Located in Escondido, California, the Golden Door is a luxury spa that focuses on women leaving their stressful lives behind and focusing solely on themselves. Single women are attracted to this spa for its emphasis on deep introspection, and to make new friends with like minded women. The week-long sessions include fitness training, healthy spa cuisine and mind-body classes such as meditation, self hypnosis and T'ai Chi, and traditional spa treatments such as massages and body wraps. Guests are given a personal esthetician who will help create a beauty regiment tailored to the individual. The guest rooms at Gold Door Spa are created in the style of traditional Japanese Honjinn inns designed for ultimate relaxation and solitude. The spacious accommodations include private gardens, personal maid service, spa wardrobe and a meditation area.

Golden Door Spa

PO Box 463077

Escondido, CA 92406

760-744-5777

goldendoor.com

Lake Austin Spa Resort

The Lake Austin Spa Resort was voted #1 Destination Spa by Conde Nast Traveler in 2008, and offers top of the line spa facilities. This large lake house style spa is located in Austin, Texas overlooking Lake Austin. The Spa offer 40 guest room accommodations rooms and cabins for guests. Premier rooms include a steeping tub and a private meditation garden. Single women can take part in the Gathering of Wise Women month-long program held every year in October at the spa. Women guest speakers provide support and inspiration to spa guests and the program specializes in enhancing a woman's health, well-being and spirit. There is also Girlfriends Getaways for single women and their friends.

Lake Austin Spa Resort

1705 South Quinlan Road

Austin, Texas, 78732

512-372-7300

lakeaustin.com

Surf Goddess Retreats

The Surf Goddess Retreat is a surf spa resort in Bali, Indonesia for women only set in a lush tropical garden. This resort empowers women through surf lessons, yoga, well-being sessions, spa treatments and spending time with fellow guests. Surf Goddess Retreat caters to single women and beginner surfers. This laid back retreat include a luxurious pool, meditation pavilions, a library and a rooftop patio. Guest may choose between two person shared rooms or a single room. Sharing a great way for single woman traveling solo to get to know other women from around the world . Rooms include complimentary spa products and wardrobe and a selection of books and literature for your reading convenience Guests may use the complimentary bikes to take a guided tour of the Bali countryside, or take an Indonesian cooking class. Spa cuisine is Bali-inspired with meal such as the Fish Satay with Bali Sambal Sauce.

Surf Goddess Retreats

Jalan Kaua Aya

Seminyak, Kuta 80361

Indonesia

858-997-0808

surfgoddessretreats.com

Tags: Golden Door, Golden Haven, Lake Austin, Surf Goddess, Austin Resort, Calistoga Golden, Calistoga Golden Haven

Program Ideas For 50th Birthday Celebrations

You can make a 50th birthday celebration fun and memorable with a little help from family and friends

Turning 50 years old is quite a milestone. If you're the one throwing a friend or loved one a 50th birthday party this also can seem daunting. You will want the occasion to be special and memorable for your guest of honor. There are several fun, thrifty, unique ideas for 50th birthday party programs that you can accomplish easily with some time, a few materials and some help from family and friends. Does this Spark an idea?

Mock Time Capsule

The Mock Time Capsule takes some pre-planning and the help of family and friends. You will need a "capsule," which could be in the form of a plastic bin with a lid, decorative box, or any large container with a lid. Have friends and family contribute pictures, written remembrances, memorabilia, and other treasures representing the individual's life. Place all the items in the capsule and seal it up. Label it with the person's name and date of birth. Present the time capsule as the highlight of the celebration.

The Pharaoh's (or Queen's) Tomb

This program calls for dressing in Egyptian attire and decorating with an Egyptian theme. Create a "throne" for the guest of honor by placing a gold disposable tablecloth, available at most dollar stores in the party section, over a large chair. Have guests bring gag gifts consisting of all the things the individual will need to take into his or her "next life." Unveil the tomb treasures at a presentation to the guest of honor. Some guests may want to act as attendants to "fan" the guest of honor. Don't forget, your guest of honor may be in "De-Nile" about their age!

Rock Around the Clock

One of the best ways to remember the past 50 years is through the music of each era. Solicit a party guest to act as your DJ and provide a musical tribute for your guest of honor. Invite guests to dress according to their favorite musical era. For a twist on this program, purchase karaoke discs featuring appropriate musical eras and have a singalong with all your guests.

Create a Photo Story Video

Microsoft offers a free download of its Photo Story program. This program is simple to use and allows you to make a personal video for your guest of honor by uploading pictures, text and music. The photo story can be played for your party program on any computer or on your television via a DVD player, by burning a DVD disc of the video you create.

MVP: Most Valued Player Program

This program requires the assistance of a few family and friends as well. Ask three to six people to prepare an awards presentation for your guest of honor that tells how the individual has been a most valued player in their lives for the past 50 years. Foods, costumes, decorations, and music can be sports themed.

Tags: guest honor, your guest, your guest honor, family friends, 50th birthday, This program, 50th birthday party

Senior Singles Activities

After years of being in a committed relationship, senior citizens are often faced with the loss of their partner. This tends to leave the newly single senior feeling lonely and depressed. There are a number of activities that seniors can get involved in to help build new friendships. Getting involved in activities is a great way to increase positive mood and decrease feelings of isolation.

Joining Clubs

There are a number of clubs you can join as a senior. This includes cards, bridge and chess clubs. Joining a club allows you to get together with other people around the same age with the same interests. Some of them might even be able to relate to living as a single senior citizen. Joining clubs opens doorways to new-found friendships. It also introduces old or new interests into your life.

Take Classes

You can join up with other seniors at classes, particularly dance classes. According to 4elders.org, studios generally offer dance sessions with people in the same age group. Seniors can also attend college classes at discounted senior rates. This is a way to learn something new or learn about something you may already be interested in, although a college class will likely contain a varied age group of people.

Travel

Being single and a senior does not mean life is limited to your hometown. Look into a traveling, especially cruise traveling. Many seniors enjoy retirement by going on cruises. This would be a great way to get out, see new sights and get to know people your own age. Single seniors should strive to enjoy life and get out as often as possible so depression and loneliness does not become a problem.

Community Resources

As a senior you may find it easy to join community resource activities. One way to do this is offering volunteer services at your local Salvation Army or Red Cross. Volunteering can be a fulfilling activity, and brings you in direct contact with new faces. Since volunteer work generally helps the community, you are doing something worthwhile with your time.

Tags: single senior, There number, with other

Which Airlines Fly Into Savannah Georgia

Six airlines fly into Savannah.

Six airlines fly into Savannah, Georgia's commercial airport, Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). Its first landing field was built in 1918. The airport was later conscripted by the U.S. Army during World War II. The airport resumed commercial passenger flights in 1949.

Allegiant Air

All Allegiant Air flights are nonstop; the company does not offer connecting flights or one-stops. Allegiant flies to Savannah only from its hub in Fort Lauderdale, FL. According to its website, Allegiant Air offers "low-low fares," scheduled services to cities through the U.S. (including small cities) and charter services to international destinations in North America. Allegiant aircrafts have between 130 and 150 coach class seats.

American Eagle Airlines

American Eagle Airlines is a trademark of American Airlines which provides regional airline service on small jets with seating in a two-by-two arrangement. American Airlines has become a conglomeration of many airlines over the years. One of its earliest predecessors was the Robertson Aircraft Corporation, whose chief pilot in the 1920s was famed aviator Charles A. Lindbergh.

Continental Airways

This airline began in El Paso, Texas in 1934. Its first commercial flights were within the southwestern United States. In the 1970s, Continentals route grew significantly. Eventually it began its Global Alliance program where customers may reap the benefits of Continental's One Pass luxury program with other airlines throughout the world. Continental Airlines shares its lineage with United in that they were both founded by aviator Walter Varney. The two companies began merging in 2010.

Delta Airlines

With headquarters in Atlanta, Delta annually offers services to over 160 million people. It began in 1924 as a crop-dusting operation in Georgia, eventually carrying mail and passengers. The airline takes its name from the Mississippi Delta region that it began to serve in 1928. Merging with other companies, it has gradually become a billion dollar airline serving customers worldwide.

United Express

United Express is a branch of United Airways which serves regional routes in Canada and the U.S.

United shares its lineage with Continental Airlines in that they were both founded by Walter Varney. United claims that it hired the first airline hostess when it hired a registered nurse to aid passengers in 1930. In October, 2010 United merged with Continental.

US Airways

US Airways began in 1939 as a "flying post office," offering the first airmail service to many communities in Pennsylvania and Ohio. It began offering passenger services 10 years later. Since then, US Airways has merged with various airlines and grown into an award-winning, commercial airline.

Tags: airlines into, airlines into Savannah, American Airlines, American Eagle, American Eagle Airlines, both founded, Continental Airlines

Military Waikiki Hotels

Surfing opportunities are available in Waikiki.

Waikiki is located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Waikiki Beach is a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a plethora of activities, including surfing competitions and outdoor performances. Waikiki is also home to the Fort deRussy Military Reservation and has a variety of comfortable hotels that cater to military personnel and their families.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa

The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa offers discounts to military personnel and their families. Personnel are required to show a military ID card when checking in. The Hilton is on Waikiki's largest beach area and features a 24-hour business center, more than 90 retail shops, a variety of swimming pools and a concierge service. Rooms come with refrigerators, flat-screen televisions, tea/coffee-making facilities and high-speed wireless Internet access. The Hilton's dining opportunities include steak and seafood dishes.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa

2005 Kalia Rd.

Honolulu, Hawaii 96815

808-949-4321

Hiltonhawaiianvillage.com

Castle Hokele Suites Waikiki

The Castle Hokele Suites is minutes from Waikiki Beach and offers military personnel up to 45 percent off their room rates. Personnel are required to present their military ID cards to receive the discount. The hotel is close to a variety of beach activities, including surfing, swimming and nighttime entertainment. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, guest laundry facilities and high-speed Internet access. The hotel has one- and two-bedroom suites equipped with cable television service, a balcony and a kitchen. Surrounding the hotel are restaurants that offer a variety of tropical/seafood and American cuisines.

Castle Hokele Suites Waikiki

412 Lewers St.

Honolulu, Hawaii 96815

808-923-8882

Castleresorts.com

Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki

The Ocean Resort Hotel is only three minutes from Waikiki Beach and offers military personnel and their families up to 45 percent off room rates. The hotel is split into two towers and has more than 450 rooms to chose from. Each room is equipped with refrigerators, balconies and a choice of a queen bed or twin beds. Comfortable amenities are found throughout the premises, including a bar and restaurant, a gift shop, two swimming pools and a sun deck.

Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki

175 Paoakalani Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96815

808-922-3861

Castleresorts.com

Tags: military personnel, Beach Resort, Castle Hokele, Castle Hokele Suites, Hawaiian Village, Hawaiian Village Beach

Romantic Places To Stay In San Francisco

Enjoy San Francisco

San Francisco is the perfect place to spend a few days as part of a romantic getaway. Romance seems to bloom in all areas of the city, from the breathtaking views on the beach to the Fisherman's Wharf area, full of small romantic restaurants. The best romantic hotels and places to stay in the city range from expensive to reasonably priced.

Luxury

The Huntington Hotel is one of the more expensive hotels in the San Francisco area. Celebrities have stayed at the hotel because of its elegant furnishings and artwork. You can also book a private spa day at the Nob Hill Spa inside the hotel or share a romantic dinner at the Big 4 Restaurant.

Clift is another option if you're looking for a luxury getaway in San Francisco. The Redwood Room, with its 2,000-year-old redwood bar, is the perfect place to have a few drinks. You'll also appreciate the rooms with silk and velvet linens and views that show the entire city.

The Huntington Hotel

1075 California St.

San Francisco, CA 94108

(415) 474-5400

Clift

495 Geary St.

San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 775-4700

Moderate

The Serrano Hotel is a moderately priced San Francisco hotel. The hotel has a spa with treatments specifically for couples, and upscale-style suites such as the A.C.T. Suite, with a bedroom set up like a stage. The hotel also has its own Asian restaurant for a romantic dinner, or just curl up with a glass of wine in the reception area where free board games are available.

The historic Palace Hotel offers rooms at the same price, decorated with antique furnishings. You can enjoy a romantic dinner underneath a glass dome in Maxfield's Restaurant or take a dip in the swimming pool with skylights, which is open at night.

Serrano Hotel

405 Taylor St.

San Francisco, CA 94102

(866) 289-6561

The Palace Hotel

2 New Montgomery St.

San Francisco, CA 94105

(415) 512-1111

Cheapest

For a cheaper option, try the Hotel Monaco. The hotel is elegantly decorated in a traditional Chinese motif, including all of the guestrooms. All of the rooms come with L'Occitane products in the bathrooms and your own coffee pot. There's enough inside the rooms that you may never have to leave.

There's also The Hotel Majestic, which has just 60 rooms, all of which were updated recently. With antique four-poster beds and 24-hour room service, you'll feel comfortable and relaxed in no time.

Hotel Monaco

501 Geary St.

San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 292-0100

The Hotel Majestic

1500 Sutter St.

San Francisco, CA 94109

(415) 441-1100

Tags: Francisco 94102, romantic dinner, Geary Francisco, Geary Francisco 94102, Hotel Majestic, Hotel Monaco

Tropical Theme 1st Birthday Party Ideas

Stay away from latex balloons (above). Stick with Mylar instead.

When throwing any first birthday party, the foremost important aspect is to keep it kid-friendly and safe. Include bright colors that the kids can enjoy. When planning a tropical-themed party for your one-year-old, keep it short and stress free. Both the children and their parents will thank you. Does this Spark an idea?

Invitations

The invitation sets the tone for your event. Many parents like to include a photograph of their child on the birthday invitation. Find a template online and print out an invite with your child's photo, or have this professionally done. There are also many underwater-inspired invitations at party or greeting card stores. For a free or cost effective option, send invites online. When choosing or designing an island theme invitation, look for images of beaches, palm trees and beach balls.

Decor

When choosing decor, find pieces that are kid-friendly and safe. Begin with a color palette. Choose bright, solid colors. Brilliant blue and green are colors of the ocean and the sky. Yellow is reminiscent of the sun. Also, include colors that can be found in tropical flowers or fish, such as red and orange.

Some tropical or underwater theme ideas that may resonate well with your child and other children include: "SpongeBob Squarepants," "Lilo and Stitch," "The Little Mermaid" and "Finding Nemo." Choosing a theme based on a television show or a movie makes it easy to find matching decor. Party stores often have coordinating decorations that can take care of the entire party.

Toddlers and small children are often fascinated by balloons. They also help instantly create a festive atmosphere. Look for helium-filled Mylar balloons in the shape of fish to match the tropical theme. These will not deflate as easily and they're less likely to be a hazard by ending up in kids' mouths. Have inflatable palm trees as standing decor. Let kids play with inflatable beach balls.

If you feel crafty, get some butcher paper and draw an underwater mural to hang on the wall. Otherwise, find a ready-made mural, also known as a scene setter. Find pictures of fish and other underwater creatures to hang on walls.

If you're having your party outdoors, throw a pool party and have a shallow wading pool available. If you're throwing a pool party, make sure that someone is watching the kids and that your pool is safe. Consider pool alarms and child safe fences. Be certain that all children are wearing safety flotation devices, but do not rely on these in place of constant, responsible adult supervision.

Food

Parents.com recommends two snack tables. Have one with kid-friendly snacks, such as goldfish-shaped crackers. If you choose tablecloths, have a tropical print. However, you may want to avoid tablecloths, especially if there are mischievous children that may want to tug tablecloths down. Have a table that's higher up than the children's table with food for adults. Avoid food for children that can be choking hazards, such as carrots, popcorn, nuts and more. For dessert, make some ice pops out of tropical juice. Include a colorful cake that is in a shape of a fish or corresponds with your chosen theme. Have plates, cups and napkins reflect the tropical theme, with prints such as Hawaiian flowers or underwater images.

Tags: with your, beach balls, children that, colors that, kid-friendly safe, palm trees, pool party

Todo List For A Hawaiian Luau Party

Food is just one aspect of throwing a Hawaiian luau.

When you are hosting a Hawaiian luau party, you have many things to plan and execute to create the laid-back island atmosphere. Depending on how big of a party you are throwing, you might want to start planning up to a year in advance. Use a to-do list to ensure you do not forget any of the important elements. Does this Spark an idea?

Invitations

Make a guest list so you know approximately how many people will be at the luau. Choose a date and location for your luau party. If your home or yard is not large enough, contact rental facilities and adjust the party date to fit an available slot at the facility. Create an invitation on the computer, purchase invitations or make them by hand. Invitations should include Hawaiian images, such as hula dancers, tropical flowers, pineapples or beach scenes. Include the occasion, time, date, location and RSVP information. In addition, add a note if guests should wear Hawaiian attire. Mail invitations at least two weeks in advance so guests have time to plan.

Decorations

List all of the decorations that you would like to have for the party, and check off the ones you already own. For example, you might want silk flower leis, colored string lights, raffia table skirts, inflatable palm trees, beach umbrellas, beach towels and an ocean-themed backdrop. Shop at party supply stores for any decorations you do not own. Recruit people to help you set up the decorations before the party. Start early in the morning, or if possible, the day before, to allow plenty of time to decorate the space.

Food and Drinks

Plan a menu for the luau. Pork is the traditional luau food, so you can either roast a whole pig or bake pork roasts and serve them sliced or as pulled pork. Cook at least 1/3 lb. of meat per person. For side dishes, serve rolls, rice, tropical fruit salad and macadamia nuts. Make a tropical punch with fruit juice, coconut milk and club soda. Hire or recruit someone to work at the bar serving alcoholic drinks and making smoothies to order.

Activities

Set up a sound system and purchase music with the laid-back feel of an island destination. If your luau will include a dance, make a play list for the dance or hire a DJ. Plan games or activities for guests to participate in, and gather the required supplies for each activity. Ideas include a limbo competition, island charades and musical chairs with beach towels instead of chairs. For a team activity, have a relay race where each participant has to put on an outrageous Hawaiian outfit and complete a series of tasks before passing the outfit along to the next team member.

Tags: beach towels, date location, Hawaiian luau, luau party, might want, your luau

List Of Military Hotels

Throughout the world, American military bases host at least one hotel or lodge on their premises. In addition to those base hotels and lodges, the armed forces holds five full-service resort hotels or Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRC). Affordable and family-oriented vacation resorts designed for the relaxation and recreation of military members and their families. Within minutes of either a national airport or a military installation, these resorts provide a variety of rooms, recreational programs and entertainment. Only active duty, military reservists and retired military may make reservations at these resorts. Prices depend on geographical area and the members rank.

Shades of Green, Florida

Located in the Disney World Resort area, the Shades of Green provides amenities such as two PGA golf courses, fitness center, spa, as well as live music and dancing. The resort also hosts Internet access, several restaurants, heated swimming pools and wading pools for the kids. The resort provides military discounts to many of the local attractions including Disney World, Universal Orlando and Sea World Bush Gardens.

Shades of Green

1950 Magnolia Palm Dr.

Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

(407) 824-3400

shadesofgreen.org/home.html

Hale Koa Hotel, Hawaii

Located on the island of Oahu, the Hale Koa Hotel provides amenities such as restaurants, lounges, cafes, dinner shows and luaus. The resort hosts a health club, swimming pools, tennis courts, walking and running paths, sand volleyball courts, massage spa and ATM services. The resort provides tours of local island attractions and arranges hops to other Hawaiian islands. Although there are no golf courses on the site, the resort arranges golf outing with nearby golf courses.

Hale Koa Hotel

2055 Kalia Road

Honolulu, HI 96815

(800) 367-6027

halekoa.com/index.cfm

The Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, Germany

Located at the foot of the Alps, the Garmisch resort offers multiple restaurants, swimming pools, health club, tours, Internet and video game rooms. Tours include such well-known places as the Neuschwanstein Castle, Dachau Concentration Camp and the Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden. The resort provides an assortment of recreational programs such as guided hiking and biking, ski lessons, white water kayaking or rafting and canoeing.

Edelweiss Lodge and Resort

Attn: Vacation Planning Center

Unit 24501

APO AE 09053

(011) 49-8821-9440

edelweisslodgeandresort.com/home.html

The Cape Henry Inn and Beach Club, Virginia

Located in the Virginia Beach resort area, the newest resort provides cottages, bungalows and log cabins, as well as hotel rooms with kitchenettes. The resort hosts outdoor pools, fitness center, beach access, fishing and hiking trails. The resort also arranges whale watching and museum tours. Nearby shopping centers and restaurants provide dining and entertainment opportunities.

The Cape Henry Inn and Beach Club

1116 Kwajalein Road

Ft. Story, VA 23459

(757) 422-8818

capehenryinn.com

The Dragon Hill Lodge, Korea

Located in Seoul, Dragon Hill Lodge hosts a variety of restaurants and a microbrewery. In addition, the resort provides a full-service health club with saunas, massage spa and pools. The resort also hosts a complete market place that includes exchange, barbershop, florist, laundry and banking center. A tourism desk provides tours of the city, Gyeongbok and Changdeok palaces, a folk village, as well as other tours throughout Asia.

Dragon Hill Lodge

Unit No. 15335

APO AP 96205-5335

011-82-2-790-0016

dragonhilllodge.com/main.html

Tags: resort provides, Dragon Hill, Dragon Hill Lodge, golf courses, Hale Hotel, health club, Hill Lodge

Theme Restaurants In Anaheim

Disneyland in Anaheim, California

Theme restaurants are dining establishments that have focused concepts or "themes." The restaurant themes inspire all of the facets of the restaurant, from the menu and the architecture to the music and the attire of the waitstaff. Anaheim is a city located in Southern California. It is a popular tourist destination due to being home to one of the world's most well-known amusement parks, Disneyland. Anaheim offers various different theme restaurant options.

Blue Bayou

Blue Bayou is a restaurant that is located within the grounds of Disneyland Park in Anaheim. Blue Bayou is a theme restaurant that focuses on New Orleans and Cajun elements. The moonlit Louisiana-inspired restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, and also offers a kiddie menu. The menu focuses on New Orleans classics including Cajun tossed salad, gumbo, Monte Cristo sandwiches, jambalaya and Tesora Island chicken. Apart from Cajun-style meals, various fish and beef meals are also on the menu (including New York strip steak and mahi mahi). Vegetarian meals are also available.

Blue Bayou

1717 Disneyland Drive

Anaheim, California 92802

714-781-3463

disneyland.disney.go.com

ESPN Zone Anaheim

ESPN Zone Anaheim is a sports-themed restaurant that is dedicated to the cable sports channel, ESPN. It is part of the Disneyland Resort. ESPN Zone Anaheim has the bustling atmosphere of a sports bar, and displays an abundance of sports-related memorabilia in its interior. The restaurant also has a retail shop that sells logo merchandise. The menu serves dishes such as chicken parmesan penne, roasted half chicken, fettuccine alfredo, buffalo chicken sandwich, Cajun burger and grilled steak salad. The dessert menu includes rum carrot cake, brownies, milkshakes and chocolate-chip-cookie sundaes.

ESPN Zone Anaheim

1500 Disneyland Drive

Anaheim, CA 92802

714-300-3776

espnzone.com/anaheim

Rainforest Cafe

Rainforest Cafe is a theme restaurant that, as its name indicates, has an overall rainforest concept. From fake thunderstorms and artificial rain to flashing lights of thunder and lightning, Rainforest Cafe simulates the atmosphere of being outdoors within a tropical rainforest. The restaurant is located within the Disneyland Park and is particularly popular with young children and families. Some of the menu's offerings include macadamia crusted tilapia and coconut shrimp, fish and chips, fajitas, pot roast, Tuscan chicken, cobb salad, Caesar salad and barbecue bacon cheeseburger. A children's menu is also available (for kids that are 10 years old and younger).

Rainforest Cafe

1515 Disneyland Drive

Anaheim, CA 92802

714-772-0413

rainforestcafe.com

Tags: Blue Bayou, ESPN Zone, ESPN Zone Anaheim, Rainforest Cafe, restaurant that, Zone Anaheim

Sponge Bob Party Gifts

SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends in Bikini Bottom--including Patrick Star, Squidward Tentacles, and Mr. Krabs--are the stars of a hit animated television show on Nickelodeon and are extremely popular with children and even teen audiences. If you'll be attending a SpongeBob-themed party, or any party for a kid who loves SpongeBob, then a gift from Bikini Bottom is sure to be a hit.

Craft Kits

Encourage kids to express their creativity and improve their crafting skills with a SpongeBob-specific project. A SpongeBob Kuddly Kit lets kids create their own cuddly blanket featuring SpongeBob, Patrick and a jellyfish.

If the intended recipient is already an exploring or experienced crafter, consider picking up a yard or two of SpongeBob fabric at your local fabric store so she can make her own purse, blanket, or even clothes. A SpongeBob applique or patch can add a touch of SpongeBob to any shirt or blanket by just sewing around the edges.

Handmade Items

If you're a crafter, make something special for the child's party such as a quilt, a sweatshirt or clothes for a treasured teddy bear or doll. Your local fabric store likely carries a variety of SpongeBob fabrics featuring various Bikini Bottom characters, along with patterns to make blankets, quilts, bedsheets, clothes, and teddy-sized shirts.

Most children outgrow SpongeBob eventually, so if you're planning to make something that you want them to keep forever, consider toning down the SpongeBob. A quilt with a number of different squares representing family members and favorite items, with SpongeBob taking up one or two patches, would do the trick.

Traditional Games

Many familiar and popular children's games have been re-branded to feature SpongeBob and his friends. A physical board or card game is a great way to keep kids occupied, interacting with the family, and away from the television, while still indulging their love of Bikini Bottom. Games available with a SpongeBob twist include Memory, Operation, UNO, Cranium, Sorry!, Ants in the Pants ("Ants in the SquarePants"), and Connect 4.

Educational SpongeBob Materials

There's no reason kids can't learn new skills and have fun interacting with SpongeBob at the same time. "SpongeBob Typing for PC" is a computer game that helps children improve their typing skills, and "It's Time!" is a hardcover book that helps toddlers learn to tell time.

Vtech offers a SpongeBob learning bundle that works with their interactive TV Learning Center for kids 5-8 as well as a SpongeBob laptop. Leapfrog has a Leapster SpongeBob Educational System handheld and a SpongeBob TAG Activity Storybook for kids 4-8.

Tags: Bikini Bottom, with SpongeBob, fabric store, improve their, interacting with, local fabric

Popular Christmas Vacations

Some families choose to spend Christmas vacation on snowy mountaintops.

Sometimes it seems like Christmas becomes a long list of chores to be ticked off without much cheer or enthusiasm: stringing up the Christmas lights, hauling home the Christmas tree, wrapping millions of presents and nursing kids through inconvenient winter colds. Before switching to permanent Grinch status, swap your traditional Christmas routine for a vacation somewhere out of town. The welcome break in holiday routine will leave you refreshed and ready to greet the season with more joy next year. Choose from popular Christmas vacations to ensure good tidings and merry moments for your family. Does this Spark an idea?

Tropical Christmas

Tropical Christmas vacations are especially popular for families accustomed to shivering through winter snowstorms during the holiday season. Forget the coat, mittens and wooly scarf and reach for coconut-scented sunscreen when planning a Christmas vacation in the tropics. Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean are popular destinations. Kids can snorkel, play beach volleyball and sip tropical smoothies while the adults swim in the pool, lounge on the beach or clink chilled bottles of beer. A few drawbacks to consider: prices for tropical destinations can be higher during Christmas because many families opt for island holidays, and your family may find it strange to eat fish tacos, luau-style pig or conch strew instead of traditional holiday foods.

Ski Vacation

Dive into the snowy fun of the Christmas season with a vacation destination in the mountains. Serene meadows of fallen snow, fragrant live pine trees, roaring fireplaces and cozy ski resorts make for a picturesque vacation. Kids will toast marshmallows before the fire, sip hot cocoa and ski down the bunny slope. Parents can ski, snowboard, lounge in the hot tub or soak away Christmas stress in resort saunas. Some resorts offer traditional Christmas dinners with turkey and holiday pies; families may also choose to rent mountain cabins for a more intimate experience. Potential complications include traveling during inclement weather or the high expense of lodging during Christmas.

City Christmas

There's something magical about big cities during Christmas time: civic decorations, large-scale Christmas productions, gleaming department stores and all the twinkling lights. New York City remains a popular Christmas vacation for people seeking an urban experience. Go ice-skating in Central Park, watch workers hoist the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree into place and attend vibrant Winter Solstice festivals featuring music and theatrical performances. Stop off at Macy's Department store to visit Santaland and relive memories of the Christmas movie classic, "Miracle on 34th Street." This vacation works best for high-energy families; not everyone appreciates trundling in and out of subways and cabs in the snow.

Hometown

Whether you're visiting the in-laws or parents living in your own hometown, going home for the holidays is a classically popular Christmas vacation. Grandparents will knock themselves out entertaining your kids with quiet nights at home, storytelling, driving past neighborhood Christmas lights and continuing longstanding family traditions. You'll have fun showing off your favorite childhood haunts, whether it's the lot where the family always chooses Christmas trees or the old church where everyone attended Christmas morning services. Drawbacks might include tension between family members and crowded living quarters, but this popular vacation option leaves plenty of time for spending time with loved ones.

Tags: Christmas vacation, during Christmas, popular Christmas, Christmas lights, Christmas tree

Retirement Party Etiquette

Retirement is usually a highly anticipated event. It's a time of reflection for the retiree, when he can hang up his work hat to move on to another chapter in life. If you are throwing a retirement party for a friend or relative, or are simply attending a retirement party, certain etiquette guidelines will help you be respectful and courteous.

Host

The host of the party should not expect or ask anyone to pay for her own meal. When you invite someone, you pay the bill. The only exception to this rule is if it is a company-coordinated event. If so, generally it is expected that each guest will pay for her own meal. If this is the case, and you are inviting guests outside of the company, the restaurant should be able to help word the invitation with something such as "Celebrate John Smith's retirement at the R and R restaurant at 6 p.m. on September 18. The R and R Restaurant is offering steak, pasta, and pork specials for $19.99 per person."

Invitations should be sent out four weeks in advance and should not mention gifts, unless it says, "No gifts necessary." It shows poor taste to solicit or ask for gifts, particularly money. Therefore, no money tree or general collection fund should be set up. If guests feel inclined to bring a gift, they will.

Family

Share in the joy for your relative as she embarks on a new journey. Celebrate with her, and remember, this is her party, so congratulate her on her job well done. Avoid discussing personal woes or negative family issues. Instead, concentrate on how happy you are for her, and how proud you are.

Bring a card, either with a gift or a gift card to her favorite restaurant or store. If you know she's planning a vacation or taking a trip soon, perhaps give her a monetary gift to contribute toward it. Dress appropriately, which would typically be in business casual wear, unless otherwise stated.

Coworkers

Unless directed not to, bring some sort of gift for the retiree. The value or kind of gift would depend on how well you know him. Even if the invitation requests no gifts, a card would be proper. If you have been good friends for the past 20 years, something extravagant or meaningful, but within your budget, is appropriate. It is also okay to orchestrate a larger gift that all coworkers could go in on together. This should be planned and completed long before the party.

Do not wish out loud that you were the one retiring. Do not grumble, complain or voice any job-related, or other, grievances that would detract from the celebration. Enjoy the party, and be truly happy for the retiree.

Tags: retirement party

Motels In Meaford Ontario

Meaford, Ontario is located on Georgian Bay of Lake Huron.

Meaford, Ontario, bills itself as one of Canada's premier four-season resorts. The town is located on the shores of Georgian Bay of Lake Huron. It is also near the Blue Mountains and the Niagara Escarpment, which is accessed by the Bruce Trail. Meaford is within an hour of Wasaga Beach, one of Canada's most popular beach destinations. Meaford offers a variety of lodging options.

Hilltop Motel

Meaford's Hilltop Motel is located next to the Georgian Trail, a 32-kilometer abandoned railway line that now serves as a trail for hiking, biking and cross country skiing. The motel is in walking distance of downtown Meaford and its harbor, which features two boat launch ramps and a fish-cleaning station. The motel offers a heated outdoor pool, shuffle board, badminton, free local calls, refrigerators and high-speed Internet access. There are several restaurants located nearby, including Ted's Range Road Diner.

Meaford Motel

The Meaford Motel is located in downtown Meaford near the town hall, harbor, beaches, opera house and shopping. The motel is 25 minutes from Blue Mountain Ski Resort and 20 minutes from Talisman Ski Resort. Motel amenities include free local calls, cable television, free wireless high-speed Internet and an on-site restaurant. Rooms are equipped with mini-refrigerators, and have either one queen bed or two double beds. Bed and breakfast packages are available. Pets are not allowed.

Georgian Bay Motel

The Georgian Bay Motel in Meaford provides easy access to fishing, boating and other water-based activities in Georgian Bay. The motel is also conveniently situated near seven waterfalls, including Eugenia falls, which drops 70 feet over the Niagara Escarpment. Other nearby attractions include Bayview Escarpment Provincial Park, which offers views of crevice caves and other rock formations, and Blue Mountain Ski Resort. Motel rooms are equipped with microwave ovens and refrigerators. Small pets are welcome.

Bay-Vue Motel

Bay-Vue Motel is located on the outskirts of Meaford, near the shores of Georgian Bay. The bay is home to 30,000 islands and offers towering cliffs, sandy beaches and clear water. Bay-Vue Motel offers basic, affordable accommodations. The motel is minutes away from downtown, Meaford Harbor, the Georgian Trail and the Bighead River, which offers excellent fishing opportunities. The motel features cable television, a playground, a patio area with barbecue grill and access to snowmobile and ski trails.

Tags: Bay-Vue Motel, downtown Meaford, Meaford Ontario, Motel located, Motel Meaford, Blue Mountain, Blue Mountain Resort

Mother/Daughter Banquet Ideas With A Purse Theme

Give your mother/daughter banquet a custom flair with a purse theme.

Planning a banquet is an opportune time to gather family and friends together for a formal event while enjoying a meal. If you are coordinating the celebration of a mother/daughter banquet and have chosen a purse theme, this is your chance to build colorful, custom elements that support the theme while exciting both mothers and daughters alike. Does this Spark an idea?

Invitations

Give your guests something to anticipate by starting with creative invitations. Online stationery company FineStationery.com features several custom purse invitations, like the purse with chain invite by Meri Meri. Another option is to make your own invites using products such as stickers, stencils and card-stock paper available at craft and scrapbooking stores. Get guests in the mood with invitations that show them exactly what type of event they will be attending, which builds excitement for the big day.

Games

When it comes time for the event, get moms and daughters working together as a team by starting the night with an ice breaker game that requires them to literally dig inside of their purses. Create a search list of about ten items that you will call out to see which mother and daughter duo has them all. Make some of the contents a little rare so that you can limit the number of winners. Items like flavored chapstick, a tube of red lipstick, a phone and a key with keyless entry are common items, so also add in items like a dog treat or a baby diaper as an odd find for a harder challenge.

Cake

With such a huge variety of purse types, select one as your cake's theme for the main event. If budget and time allow, use smaller cakes as centerpieces for the tables using different purse designs in different colors for each cake. Assign each table its own personality based on the cake's purse design. For a photo gallery of ideas, CakeCentral.com has photos of purse cakes that you can print and bring to your cake artist or use yourself if making the cakes at home.

Favors

Don't send guests home empty-handed. For favors, give your mothers and daughters a purse to take home. If your budget allows, give each guest a purse that you feel matches their personality. If you're working with a smaller budget, hand out small purse-shaped favor boxes filled with candy, like the pink mini favor box with handle found online at Beau-Coup.com.

Tags: mother daughter, Give your, mother daughter banquet, mothers daughters, purse theme, your cake

Substitutes For Kirsch Liquor

Kirsch comes from distilled cherry juice and pits.

Kirsch, according to Cook's Thesaurus, consists of a cherry-flavored brandy (see reference 1). It appears in some recipes, but some do not want to use alcohol in their cooking or cannot locate this drink. Substitutes exist for Kirsch liquor, but as with any replacement in a recipe, the results might taste slightly different. According to Gourmet Sleuth, the official alcohol used in fondue recipes is kirsch because the alcohol aids in smoothing the melting of the cheese (see reference 3). Add this to my Recipe Box.

Syrup or Juice

Replace kirsch with an equal amount of black cherry, raspberry or boysenberry juice or syrup (see reference 2). Either drain the liquid from cherries canned in syrup to get cherry syrup or look for Italian soda syrup in a cherry flavor (see reference 3). Only use syrup or juice in recipes where the alcohol does not play a chemical role. For instance, avoid using non-alcoholic substitutes in fondue (see reference 3).

Framboise or Cherry Liqueur

Substitute Framboise, a French raspberry brandy, or cherry liqueur in the same amount (see reference 1). Use Framboise for if your recipe depends on the brandy flavor, but opt for a cherry liqueur for more cherry flavor in your dish.

Cherry Preserves

Replace kirsch with cherry preserves.

As with using juice or syrup, you cannot substitute cherry preserves for kirsch in fondue recipes, but they will replace the cherry flavor in other dishes such as baked goods (see reference 3). If desired, thin the cherry preserves to a watery consistency with boiling water before adding it to your recipe to more closely replicate the texture of the kirsch liquor.

Tags: cherry flavor, cherry preserves, fondue recipes, juice syrup, kirsch with, reference Framboise

What Happens If A Cosigner Dies

The death of a cosigner impacts any outstanding loans.

A cosigner on a loan accepts as much responsibility as any other parties to the loan. Often, a cosigner is required when a borrower's credit does not meet traditional lending standards. In the event that the borrower defaults on a loan, the cosigner assumes all repayment responsibilities and negative credit impact until the borrower or cosigner pays the balance of the loan or brings it up to date. If the cosigner dies, however, the rules of the game may change.

Promissory Note

The promissory note outlines the disposition of the loan, falling under state and federal banking laws depending on the type of loan it is. Some types of loans will automatically default all payment responsibilities to the primary borrower upon death of the cosigner, while others require a buyer to refinance a note on his own if the cosigner passes away. This varies from one state to the next.

Position on the Note

The position the cosigner holds on the note also plays a big part in how repayments are structured. For instance, if a cosigner is actually a primary on a mortgage, holding a verbal or written agreement with the borrower to pay the note regularly, and the cosigner dies, the borrower must refinance the entire mortgage into his name. However, if the cosigner is in a secondary position on the mortgage, in many states the mortgage repayment responsibilities default to the primary borrower without any paperwork required. In this case, any ownership interest the cosigner had to the property defaults to the primary borrower or to whomever the cosigner names in his will regarding property interests and holdings.

Community Property States

In the event that the cosigner to a note is married and lives in a community property state, all of his debt and property holdings automatically transfer to his spouse upon death, including cosigned loans. In this case, the spouse would assume repayment responsibilities on the loan if the primary borrower defaults. In some states, loan paperwork requires addenda modifying the original terms of the loan for this, while in others, a simple notice to the cosigner from the lending institution will suffice. This holds true in every community property state, regardless of whether or not the spouse was on the original loan.

Defaulted Loans

If a loan is in default when the cosigner passes away, the lender retains the right to hold the cosigner's estate accountable for repayment, if he is unmarried or does not live in a community property state. In this case, the balance of the loan puts property and assets in probate (holding) until the loan is satisfied. In these cases, it is wise for survivors to the estate to consult with a legal professional on dispose of the debt, using the promissory note as a guide.

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Sweet 16 Party Planning Guide

A girl's sweet 16 birthday party is traditionally an extravagant gathering that celebrates her coming of age. Families with a sweet 16 in the future should expect to spend some extra time and effort on this birthday party in comparison to other years. Does this Spark an idea?

Time Frame

An extravagant sweet 16 party can take a year to plan, so parents should at least start discussing the party a year in advance. Locations, caterers, entertainers and photographers should be booked about six months in advance, according to Party Spot. A simple party at home, in contrast, may only need to be planned a couple of months in advance.

Features

Regardless of the type of sweet 16 party, families need to plan for a number of party features. These include the location, decorations, food, cake, music, invitations, guest list, attire and party favors. For each feature, decide what you want, who will take care of it and how you need to follow up on it as the party date nears.

Considerations

Parents and their daughters may have very different opinions of what the sweet 16 party will be like, especially with regard to its budget. Families should sit down together to get on the same page and compromise on a type of party and budget that they can all agree on before moving forward with any of the plans.

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The History Of Dinner Plates

Dinner plates have historically been used to serve food as well as for decoration.

Dinner plates, which are typically made from porcelain or other earthenware, have been around since the 5th century. They were modeled on earlier, round plates constructed from stale bread. Antique, collectible and commemorative dinner plates continue to enjoy popularity, particularly in Western countries.

Time Frame

Dinner plates originated with the Chinese discovery of porcelain in approximately 600. During the 18th century, European potters began to manufacture porcelain plates, which were mainly available to elites. It was not until the 19th century, specifically between the years 1815 and 1898, that dinner plates became mass-produced and affordable to the public.

Geography

Chinese potters were able to create porcelain due to knowledge of glazing techniques and the local availability of kaolin clay. The opening of trade routes in the 14th century allowed for the export of Chinese plates to Europe, though it took several centuries for Europeans to emulate the porcelain-making process. Mass production of dinner plates occurred mainly in Europe and the United States.

Function

For most of their history, dinner plates have served the double function of decoration and food consumption. The phenomenon of collectible plates, both antique and commemorative, was popularized in Europe and the United States during the 19th and 20th centuries.

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