Bayfront Marin House

Bayfront Marin House at Sunrise

Bayfront Marin House

St. Augustine, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, and looking for the perfect place to stay, Bayfront Marin House should be at the top of your list. This charming bed and breakfast has everything you need for an unforgettable getaway, whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat. I was visiting solo, searching for some much needed “Me Time.” I can’t think of a better place to stay since I felt pampered, spoiled, and safe.

Click HERE to read all about my stay.


February 2025 Product Roundup

boat in front of snowy mountains

February 2025 Product Roundup

February might be the shortest month, but it still gives us plenty of time to discover new favorites! Whether you’re looking for a cozy book to curl up with, skincare to fight off winter dryness, or travel essentials for your next adventure, we’ve got you covered. This month’s roundup is packed with must-haves to make the rest of winter a little brighter (and maybe even help you start dreaming about spring). Let’s dive in with our February 2025 Product Roundup!

J.R. Liggett’s

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

J.R. Liggett’s is perfect for anyone who loves simple, effective, and eco-friendly personal care products! Their old-fashioned shampoo bars are a game-changer—gentle, long-lasting, and packed with natural ingredients that leave your hair feeling clean and soft without any plastic waste. Whether you’re shopping for a traveler, an eco-conscious friend, or someone who loves quality grooming, this is a thoughtful and practical gift.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

Old-Fashioned Bar Shampoo

Herbal Formula

Shampoo bar

Rosemary,  lavender, and cedarwood blend together to make a wonderful smelling all-natural shampoo bar. This select group of essential oils are combined to create a wonderful smelling  shampoo. It gives you the feeling of early spring. Rosemary is good for dry itchy scalp and promotes hair growth. Lavender has anti-fungal properties and is good for treating eczema. Cedarwood has a calming aroma and anti-inflammatory properties.  This bar is great for acne-prone skin.

Old-Fashioned Bar Shampoo

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15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

map and camera

15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

Planning for a vacation can be as exciting as the trip itself, but the day before departure is crucial to set yourself up for smooth sailing. There are some essential tasks you need to complete so you can jet off stress-free and make the most of your getaway. Here are 15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation:

 Double-Check Your Travel Documents

Ensure your passport, ID, and travel tickets are packed and up-to-date. Print physical copies even if you’ve gone digital—a backup never hurts. If you’re traveling internationally, confirm visa requirements and entry restrictions. I always email myself a copy of important documents just in case they get lost while we’re traveling.

Confirm Your Reservations

Revisit all your bookings, from flights and hotels to rental cars and excursions. Double-check dates, times, and addresses. This ensures everything is set and helps avoid any last-minute surprises when you arrive. I also write down departure locations for all tours I’m taking.

Charge Your Electronics and Pack Chargers

Fully charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and power bank. Organize your chargers, adapters, and accessories in a dedicated pouch. A dead device while traveling can disrupt your plans—stay powered up and ready.

latte and a cellphone

Prepare Your Home for Your Absence

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Surviving Airport Security with Kids

 

We’ve all seen those parents that, after going through airport security with kids, look like they’ve walked through a hurricane.  Their hair is disheveled, belt half off, arms full of clothes, and a crying kiddo following behind them.  Ok…so most of us have BEEN those people and it’s not fun at all.  All of this craziness can usually be avoided with a bit of planning. 

Here are 10 tips for surviving airport security with kids:

 HAVE THE TALK

Um…no…not THAT talk.  Talk to your kiddos about what to expect when going through security.  Better yet…show them.  Grab a carry-on bag, pretend your kitchen table is the security area, and walk them through exactly what happens.  Show them they may need to take off their shoes (depending on where you’re traveling) and that they’ll have to let go of Teddy for a few minutes as he takes a fun ride through a magic machine.  Get them involved with the simulation so they feel prepared.

  LIQUIDS

 It floors me that people are still bringing full size bottles through airport security.  An easy way to remember the rule is 3-1-1: 3.4 oz bottles or less for all liquids, gels, and aerosols; placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag; per 1 person.  Security could care less how much your shampoo costs.  If it is over 3.4 oz they will take it and it will hold up the line. (I learned the hard way that DRY shampoo is actually a liquid…no matter how much I begged.)

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How to Get Over Jetlag

View from inside a plane looking out toward wing

How to Get Over Jetlag

Jetlag can be a nuisance when you’re chasing new adventures, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Whether you’re hopping time zones for business or pleasure, here’s how to get over jetlag quickly and get back to enjoying the journey.

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Before You Travel

One of the best ways to minimize jetlag is to start adjusting your internal clock before your trip. If you’re traveling east, go to bed an hour earlier each night for a few days. If you’re heading west, stay up a bit later. This gradual shift helps your body acclimate to the new time zone. Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to simulate nighttime when your new destination’s clock says it’s time to sleep.

Stay Hydrated

Flying dehydrates you, and dehydration makes jetlag worse. Keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly—especially on long-haul flights. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can mess with your sleep and leave you feeling more drained. Hydration is key to keeping your body’s rhythms in check, so make drinking water a priority before, during, and after your flight.

Man drinking water

Sync With the Local Time Zone ASAP

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January 2025 Product Roundup

snowy view

January 2025 Product Roundup

Welcome to our January Product Guide, your go-to list for starting the year with inspiration, care, and a fresh perspective! This month, we’ve rounded up essentials to nourish your body and mind, like a luxurious shampoo and conditioner duo, an oil-infused body bar for silky skin, and some page-turners to spark your inner growth—a cookbook for wine lovers, a thoughtful retirement guide, and a powerful book on resilience. Dive in, discover, and set the tone for a fantastic year ahead! Enjoy our January 2025 Product Roundup

Okay, Now What?

How To Be Resilient When Life Gets Tough

By: Kate Gladdin

Book: Okay, Now What?

WHAT IS THE BOOK ABOUT?

When motivational speaker Kate Gladdin was twenty years old, she woke up in the middle of the night to find out her older sister had died in a tragic road accident. Suddenly, everything she knew about her life, her future, and her family shattered in a heartbeat.

We all face loss in different ways every day, because adversity is a part of life. There’s no getting around it–only through it–and the most vital tool we need to overcome the unexpected is resilience. It was this realization that led Gladdin to become a resilience expert, life coach, and motivational speaker. Through her own proven three-step strategy using the three Rs–to recognize, reflect, and redirect–she now has the skills to use anytime she feels helpless and wants to take back control over any circumstance she faces.

It’s this incredible method that Gladdin teaches in Okay, Now What? She shows readers how to:

recognize what’s really causing them to struggle the most,

reflect on the impact of that struggle, and

finally—the most important step—how to redirect toward finding the resilience they need to grow through what they go through and create good from even the worst moments in life.

This book can apply to so many facets of life that it would be a perfect gift for anyone. I couldn’t stop highlighting this book and writing in the margins.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND THIS BOOK?

CLICK HERE!

GIVE HER A FOLLOW!

INSTAGRAM

At Home Abroad- Retire Big On Little

By Kathleen Peddicord

book: Retire on Little

WHAT IS THE BOOK ABOUT?

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Discovering Marsaxlokk: A Slice of Malta’s Coastal Charm

Boats at Marsaxlokk

Discovering Marsaxlokk: A Slice of Malta’s Coastal Charm

If you’re planning a trip to Malta, make sure Marsaxlokk is on your list of must-see spots. This charming fishing village on the island’s southeastern coast has so much to offer, from its iconic colorful boats to mouthwatering seafood. Here’s a laid-back guide to Discovering Marsaxlokk: A Slice of Malta’s Coastal Charm.

Waterfront at Marsaxlokk

Getting to Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is easily accessible from Valletta, the capital of Malta. You can hop on a bus, which will take you there in about 40 minutes, or if you’re feeling adventurous, renting a car is a great option too. Parking can be a bit tricky, especially on Sundays, so get there early to snag a good spot.

What to Expect

The first thing you’ll notice is the picturesque harbor, filled with traditional fishing boats called luzzus. These boats are painted in bright colors, with the eye of Osiris painted on their bows to protect fishermen at sea. It’s one of those scenes that feels straight out of a postcard.

Fishing boats of Marsaxlokk, Malta

Indulge in Fresh Seafood

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15 Tips to Know Before Going to Portugal

View of Portugal

15 Tips to Know Before Going to Portugal

Portugal is one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations, where historic charm meets stunning coastlines, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure. From navigating the cobblestone streets to savoring pastel de nata, here are 15 Tips to Know Before Going to Portugal:

Learn a Few Portuguese Phrases

While English is widely understood in tourist areas, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can go a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals. Greet with a cheerful “Bom dia” (Good morning) or thank someone with “Obrigado/a.” Locals will appreciate your effort, and it can lead to more memorable interactions.

Horse and buggy in Obidos, Portugal

Pack for the Weather

Portugal’s weather can vary by region and season. Summers are sunny and warm, perfect for beach days in the Algarve, but winters in the north can be rainy and chilly. Layers are your best friend, and don’t forget comfortable shoes for exploring those hilly streets and cobblestone alleys.

Beaches of Portugal in Cascais

Indulge in Portuguese Cuisine

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Christmas tree made of lobster traps outside Portland Regency Hotel

Portland Regency Hotel

Portland, Maine

If you’re planning a trip to Portland, Maine, staying at the Portland Regency Hotel is a decision you won’t regret. This boutique hotel is nestled right in the heart of the city’s Old Port District, giving you easy access to charming cobblestone streets, unique shops, and the buzzing waterfront. The location alone makes it an ideal base for exploring everything Portland has to offer, from craft breweries to historic landmarks. My husband and I thought it was the perfect hotel for a getaway in Maine.

Click here to read all about our stay.


15 Reasons Why Iceland Should Be on Your Bucket List

Iceland

15 Reasons Why Iceland Should Be on Your Bucket List

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, and it’s no surprise it’s one of the hottest travel destinations right now. From jaw-dropping landscapes to one-of-a-kind experiences, this Nordic gem promises adventure at every turn. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone just looking for some peace and quiet, Iceland has something magical for you. Here are 15 reasons why Iceland should be on your bucket list:

The Northern Lights

Seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the Icelandic sky is pure magic. The best time to catch this celestial show is between September and March, when the nights are long and dark. You don’t even need to leave Reykjavik to see them, but venturing to less light-polluted areas like Thingvellir National Park will give you an unforgettable experience. Dress warmly and bring a good camera to capture the lights. The best place to stay when looking for the lights is Hotel Ranga. Click HERE to read all about our stay here.

Hotel Ranga, Iceland

Photo credit: Hotel Ranga, Iceland

Blue Lagoon

Who doesn’t want to soak in warm, milky-blue waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes? The Blue Lagoon is the ultimate Icelandic spa experience and is rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to be great for your skin. Located just 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport, it’s the perfect way to start or end your Iceland adventure. Don’t forget to book your spot in advance—this dreamy spot fills up fast! Click HERE for our tips on doing the Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, and for good reason. It features three must-see spots: Thingvellir National Park,

Thingvellir National Park

 the geysers at Haukadalur,

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