Trip to Massachusetts

This trip started with a very, very long drive that lasted about 14 hours that happened overnight. The drive was obviously uncomfortable but worth it . . . I had the opportunity to see HISTORY coupled with lots of fun. The average day in Boston was rainy and gusty. My very first purchase was a jacket to keep warm and lucky for me, a friend was able to share his poncho with me or otherwise, I would have been doused. During the trip, I had a very yummy piece of Boston Cream Pie and I had the Boston bake beans experience.

Here is a breakdown of the trip:

Salem: Location of the 1692 Witch Trials where many lost their lives over untruth and hysteria. Seriously, the museum gave me the creeps. I really haven't slept a whole night through since I learned the "ins and outs" of the witch trials. I have had nightmares that feature the "black man." That is what the people in that day called the devil. I toured the House of Seven Gables. It was featured as an American novel and it is historically, the oldest mansion in all of New England.

Downtown Boston: I had dinner two times at Quincy Market. This was central for shopping, dining and performance entertainment. I really enjoyed Boston's waterfront. I made it a point to visit it each time that I made it downtown. I can't forget the unforgettable concert . . . The BLUE MAN GROUP! It was totally amazing and unlike anything that I have ever experienced. If I had to compare it to something, it reminded me of some type of dance rave with comical breaks of non-verbal theatrical acts. Oh and I can't go with mentioning the fact that I visited the Science Museum. They had a baseball exhibit on display that was incredible. At first, I had no interest in browsing the exhibit but then, I had some extra time to kill. It was totally worth it! They had an actual Women's Baseball League uniform on display and beside it was the Peaches uniform that was worn my Betty Davis in the film called "A League of their Own." This is one of my favorite movies and to see an actually uniform worn . . . it was a real treat.

Cambridge: Location of the historical event in American history. It is reported that this is the location where the Revolutionary War started.

All in all, it was an awesome trip. I am already trying to find ways to see the BLUE MAN GROUP again :)

Here is a slideshow to take you there . . .

Panama City Beach, FL

I just returned from one of my greatest beach vacations in history :) We had a total of 10 wonderful days on the beach, soaking up the rays of the FL sunshine! As you can see, I had a large chunk of beach time and if you know me at all, you know that I adore the beach in all its beauty.

I arrived to find that our accommodations were more way more than what we expected. We entered a beautiful condo that was recently constructed. You could almost smell the newness and then, we stepped out on the balcony and there it was . . . the GULF! The sand was white and fluffy and the ocean was just as clear as I had imagined. I don't want to mislead you in any way so I will tell you about the Gulf's current state . . .

The Gulf is experiencing kick-up from the recent storms so much of the seaweed and some algae is loose. This did affect the clarity of the water but for someone who had never been to the Gulf Coast, it was still amazing to experience. I was swimming in ocean water that was well over 4ft. and I could see my feet and all the other creatures swimming about ;) I also rode a banana boat. The best way for me to describe the boat is that it is 2 large floats that were shaped like bananas pulled by a jet ski. The boat took us off the shoreline about 50 yards and gave us a ride of our lives! I spent the entire time laughing my head off and nearly falling off the boat. If it were not for the other passengers, I would have fallen off several times :)

Besides the beauty of the ocean, I had the chance to experience the 4th of July beachfront! That was amazing. A local business put on a fireworks display that was unlike anything that I have ever seen. The fireworks seemed liked they went on forever! Really, I think it was like a hour! The finale was incredible and I got to watch it all off the balcony as the fireworks exploded over the ocean.

I can't forget to tell you about the oyster bar called Shuckums! Their motto was: We Shuck'em, You suck'em! There I met a couple from Georgia and they randomly offered me oysters. We "shot" them together! Even though, I did not necessarily enjoy the oysters, I loved that bar. We went there of the evenings and even for a quick lunch treat. I say, if you are ever at Panama City Beach, stop by Shuckums . . . it is a must :)

I think the trip was so special because I had some of the greatest things in one trip and all at the same time . . . it was a very memorable and sentimental trip that I will always remember.