Diverse Hawaiian Trees

Anyone who has lived or spent a lot of time in the Mid-West and on the West Coast understands how seeing trees can affect you. It is common to feel strange going from a few trees on the landscape to nothing but trees. A visit to Honolulu, Hawaii will certainly provide you with the opportunity to see trees that you’ve probably never seen before.

These are some of the most diverse and amazing types of trees. Some are associated with the produce that grows here naturally, like coconut, pineapple, and macadamia. There are other types that grow here but originate from far away. The different types of trees and their growth patterns are another thing that makes the city stand out.

You can see humongous exhibits of these virtually everywhere from the city, the beach, and the mountains. The stunning displays make one wonder what soil is capable of producing such wonderful acts of nature. According to Garden Guides, there are 10 types of soil that exists in various parts of the country. Hawaii is the only state that happens to contain them all, which serves to enhance growth.

Norfolk Island Pine Trees

Your first look at these large trees may identify them as some type of pine true but not one you’ve probably seen before. The Norfolk Island Pine originates from this small island which is situated between New Zealand and New Caledonia in the Pacific. Its broad arm-like branches spread out and display pine attributes. These are often used as alternate Christmas trees in Honolulu during the holidays.

Banyan Trees

These intimidating trees are also referred to as Indian Banyan Trees, which are fichus examples. Many of these can grow quite large with extremely broad and spreading branches and alternate trunks. Most who see these trees for the first time may be intrigued. These trees grow and tend to drop aerial roots, which grow until they touch the ground. At this point, the roots become trunks of their own.

Tours around the city will show tourists many vibrant and gorgeous trees. Although island destinations are commonly associated with palm trees, they are not the only ones that are populous. These are only one of the different trees that can be found on this popular island. These are fine examples of why the soil here encourages the mature growth of plants, produce trees, and others.

Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – The Views of Tallinn

The theme for this year’s cruise was Scandinavia and The Baltic because of the ports of call we would be traveling to. Many of us, who have cruised with Dave Koz and Friends at Sea before, joke that this is more than a terrific way to travel. It is a process from beginning to end that makes dreams come true. I’d never heard of the city of Tallinn but was familiar with the country of Estonia.

Situated along the coast of the Baltic Sea, Estonia is one of three countries that had at one time been a part of the Soviet Union. Today, it is an independent nation which is also a part of the European Union. One of the first things that I noticed, on the chilly morning of our arrival, was the combination of historical and modern structures.

Established as the capital city in medieval times, Estonia is beautiful. Quick commutes to virtually any part of the city makes it convenient for tourists with strict schedules. We visited some of the important attractions and landmarks in the area. These included Old Town, Pirita, and Viimsi. Imagine my surprise when we went in search of a cappuccino and found a fully functional and expansive shopping mall.

The Strawberry Crème Cappuccino was absolutely delicious but it was soon time to return to the ship. Norman Brown, Jonathan Fritzen, and Marcus Anderson were on the lineup for the selection of jazz venues on board and we were ready to enjoy them!

My Journey to 50! - Changing Looks

If you’re like me, you’re features make you an enigma. People are always questioning my age, which is a compliment. However, I know the truth because I’ve seen me from the beginning to now.

Another key thing to consider on My Journey to 50 is the expectation of changing looks. Women, especially have a challenge in this area because we hear it more so than men. Who cares what other people think about your maturing looks?

Embrace who you are today and find ways to appeal to YOURSELF. I’m finding my way now just like I did as a teen. Peer pressure, trends and outside influences are always coming! I’m preparing by feeling good in my own skin, such as it is. Lol.

Let’s embrace this Speed of Life thing together!

True beauty is only possible when the inside is healthy, intact and positive…

My Journey to 50

Yes, I’m Excited to Turn 50

I’ve had friends who practically lost it when they turned 30. I guess every milestone comes with a bit of trepidation. Embracing where you are in life and being truly thankful is important. This sets the theme for the rest of life.

Aging is a privilege to those who actually understand it. Make no mistake, I’m not saying sit back and knit…unless you know how. Lol. Who says you cannot embark on this phase of life with expectation?

Travel, learn, write, explore and whatever else helps you to grow! Getting older offers us all the opportunity to tackle life in a new way. The Speed of Life doesn’t slow down for any of us so finding a pattern and rhythm is crucial.

Fortunately for me, I’ve been an outside-the-box kind of girl from the start. My plan is to take the next 2 and a half years and get prepared. The embrace, may take a little bit of work. I’ll get there though.

How about you joining me on My Journey to 50? It’s going to be AMAZING!

Discover Ways to Relax – Creating a Quiet Space

Everyone has seen the studies that say there is good stress and there is bad stress. It’s true these are involved with virtually every aspect of life. Finding real ways, however, to decompress is essential to every lifestyle.

This involves discovering methods to enjoy true relaxation. Often this requires shutting out distractions and enjoying a quiet or serene space. Many homeowners have realized the importance of this space and are creating them DIY.

Those with additional rooms have the option of designing this area. It doesn’t have to be a large space but one that is adequate. Designating such a place for meditation, reading or even listening to music is beneficial. Couples can share this space or take turns utilizing it.

• Choose a Room
• Remove Clutter
• Embrace Natural Light
• Make it Your Own

Preparing for an Empty Nest – Home and Life Plans

There is not just one example of empty nesters these days. Some of these couples have just sent the last of their children off to college. Others are seeing older children finally move away on their own.

Having your home to yourself presents an array of opportunities. This is a time to not only develop your home but to transform your life, as well. Couples often define themselves over the years as parents.

They sometimes forget that they are individuals and spouses. Preparing to be an empty nest involves evaluating where you are currently. It is also about making plans for the future.

Thinking about this time in advance makes it easier to adjust. Instead of going into a panic from the quiet, prepare for it and make a serene space for your lifestyle.

Redesign Projects

Now that the house is empty, why not redesign specific rooms. Setting up a budget for incremental changes is a good idea. New kitchen appliances or flooring will improve the look and functionality of this space.

Bedrooms, living rooms and even basements can be targets for change. This may also be an opportunity to develop more areas for entertaining.

Create Personal Space

Depending on how many children are vacating the nest, there may now be a lot of extra space. This is finally the time for husbands and wives to create their own personal living areas. You can transform a bedroom into an office.

Moving furnishings around or changing the décor will help with these projects. Couples should adopt rooms for themselves and to use together. This can be a fun adventure.

Teen Conversations: Important Parental Moves

It's true that parents and teens often speak a different language!


This shouldn't discourage either from conversation. It is important not only to the relationship of the family. Keeping these lines of communication active promotes expression in the future.


Teens learn how to think critically and to verbalize their positions. Topics of these conversations can vary. The primary objective is to use the time wisely. Although the Speed of Life is challenging to families, it is essential that they maintain relationships in a healthy way. Conversation is a good tool for this!


Daily Lives


Some teens need to be encouraged to talk about the issues that trouble them. The things that occur daily are a part of these concerns. Setting aside time specifically for these conversations, shows interest and concern.


Current Events


There are confusing things happening in society. This is true for both parents and teens. Discussing current events nationally and internationally can help. The goal is not to figure out the world's problems. It's simply to pursue understanding and spark more conversation. 


The Future


The future is one of the things that troubles teens the most. Parents don't always understand because they've conquered their fears in some ways. Teens need and want direction for attaining the goals, whether short term or long term. Conversation could mean the difference between success and failure.


Let's start talking more. . .


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New Year, New Opportunities!

Well, 2014 is finally here. Some people look at another year as a reminder of age or things not accomplished. I don't agree with that outlook at all. Every New Year brings with it new opportunities!

These are opportunities to achieve, accomplish, endeavor, invest and to love. There are always going to be things that didn't happen in the previous year. Some of those were simply not meant to be anyway. There are other things that didn't happen because we didn't put in the time and resources it required.

Here is another beautiful year and opportunity to make it happen. Most of our goals, need more than us to come into fruition. Our loved ones and circle-of-friends often factor into the process because support in important.

Along with those around us, goals are accomplished when we make up our minds to get moving. The Speed of Life keeps us active no matter what. Why not let that speed steer us towards our goals for the year?

Avoid The Holiday Blues!

The holidays create some of the most special moments of the year. These are the occasions where people get together. Families, friends and co-workers all celebrate the season and time of year. Although many people love the holidays, there are those who feel a bit of pressure when they arrive.

Those who live far away from those they love often fit into this category. People struggling with emotional or financial woes tend to find the holidays overwhelming. Parties, events and get-togethers can be troubling to many people. Instead of feeling joy, they experience Holiday Blues!

There are ways that you can get through this season without feeling stress. Applying some very useful tips is a good way to journey through this holiday time. Preparing for what's ahead is definitely the best way to get ready. Here are a few tips for those who struggle during this time of carols and celebrations:

Limit Party Going

You don't have to go to every party that you're invited to. Pick the top three that really matter. This can allow you a bit of breathing room when so many events are going on at the same time.

Find Simple Gifts

Gift giving can be the culprit behind why people are down during the holidays. Money problems are challenging when it comes to gifts. Simple gifts like a Starbucks gift card can help. You determine the dollar amount. Personal items like pies or cakes can be cheap gifts.

De-stress Your Day

Avoiding the stress of the season will help you! Listen to music, take a walk or a drive during the holidays. Don't let stress make you a scrooge! Dealing with your feelings in a healthy way is wise.

The last tip to avoid Holiday Blues is to smile more! You don't have to have a commercialized season to be involved. A simple smile can be a treat for you and others during this time of year.