Art · Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Photography · Travel

I’ve Made A Few Updates To My Blog

Hello, so glad you stopped by today. 

To allow more comments and my ability to communicate with others, I’ve changed the settings so that you don’t have to log in or be a WordPress member.

I’ve updated my About Me page slightly and continue to work on making Organizations That Can Help a drop-down menu. I’ve done it in the past but currently, it’s not correct.

One area I want to expand is Organization that Can Help, please provide any you know of so I can create a much better resource. Thanks. :)

Look for more changes as I work to improve my blog.

Thank you for reading and visiting my blog.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Celebrate Life · Moving Forward · Survivor · Travel

Dedicated To My Dearest Friend Gavin

I wrote this post in 2015 and ran across it today, Gavin and I are even closer now and I wanted to send him some love. Be sure to check out his blog, you will want to stay a while.

 

GAVIN THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND

Gavin and I met through the blogosphere on 3/31/14. He is truly amazing with a camera and only started in 2009. He can take everyday objects and present them in different perspective. 

He started in color then fell in love with black and white and the rest they say is history. I am amazed at what we can do with light. He doesn’t give himself enough credit, he is a professional without question. 

Please stop by his Word Press site sedge808.com  for a look at his creative style. You can find his masterpieces on Fluidr,  AUS of Flickr. fluidr.com/photos/sedge808/interesting.

Gavin is a great friend, sometimes we go long periods without talking and when we do, it’s like yesterday. He is a survivor of a traumatic background yet he stands tall. Gavin has taken the smart route, surround yourself with friends and family you can trust. 

I’m blessed to have Gavin in my life. We BS, lend a shoulder, and make each other laugh. Please pull up a chair, you’ll be amazed at his artistic ability.

Taking in the beauty of Sydney, Australia

Opera House

 

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Sending A Special Thanks To The Philippines, Egypt, France And The United Kingdom For Visiting

Thank you for letting me into your lives, I appreciate you and look forward to seeing you again.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Travel

A Special Thanks To Vietnam, Tanzania and Pakistan For Visiting

I get such a thrill out of seeing what countries stop by my blog, and I like to shout out to countries new to my site.

Thanks. :)

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Men & Womens Health · Travel

Shout Out To Albania, Bulgaria, and India

Thank you to all international visitors to my blog, I appreciate you reading my post, and return visits add sunshine to my day. Today’s shout-out is to Albania, Bulgaria, and India. I love it when I get surprised by a country like China that has not visited before.

Thank you! Thank you!

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday- Statue At Kazan Cathedral In St. Petersburg, Russia

I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and hope to see you soon. 

 

 

 

 

There are several statues at the front entrance of the Kazan Cathedral they are all beautiful. I love the architecture in St. Petersburg, Russia, and pray I can go back.

This is a front view of the cathedral where the statues are from Trip Advisor. You can barely see them in this photo but if you look closely you might see a glance, Look straight ahead in the columns under the dome. 

Kazan Cathedral (St. Petersburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Melinda

 

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Travel

Child-Parent Alienation Is A Form Of Abuse

In the modern world of divorce, we are seeing that fathers are being left behind. Child separation from their parents, no matter if it’s the father or the mother, is traumatic. They will find themselves without one half of their guiding light and they will have a lesser view of the world because of it. Parents are supposed to be teachers and when children and parents don’t have the opportunity to spend time together, valuable lessons are not learned. Fathers are the hardest hit, as mothers tend to get sole child custody, 80-90% of the time. Let’s look deeper into why this is a problem that we need to talk more about.

Separation as a weapon

Sometimes, parents who have custody of the children will use this as a way to ‘get back’ at their former spouse. This is as horrible and vindictive as it sounds. However, this kind of child alienation can have a bad effect on the parent that is being forced out, and the children. The children will sense they are being used as pawns in your personal vendetta and the parent that is being kept from seeing them will grow distant from them. If you are also making up lies about the former spouse, or think that they are, your children will likely believe them as they are their sole caregiver. This kind of turning against tactics can be devastating in the long term to the point that relationships may never heal again.

A need for guidance

Both parents will give their children a guiding light in life. And when one of them is not there to do this, it can lead to a skewed view of the world. It’s rare for one parent to assume both roles and it can never really work even when they try. A dad’s perspective on life is different from the mother’s and vice versa. Therefore making sure that both parents can fulfill their role as a torch of knowledge in their children’s lives is vital. When one of them can’t do this because of child alienation by the other parent, this can be so harmful that the child will lack a certain type of life experience or knowledge that will end up hurting them more. 

 

Photo by Emma Bauso on Pexels.com

 

What can you do about it?

Can you sense not being able to see your children as you normally would at visiting times? Maybe you can’t even visit them anymore because of what the former spouse is doing to separate you from your children. You shouldn’t give up, even if the court has previously ruled something. You can use a good Family Law Firm to build a case that shows you are being unfairly treated and kept from your children. Fathers especially should look into this, as they will usually face a tougher stance from the family courts.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Repost from 2020

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday-Statue of Peter The Great In St. Petersburg, Russia

I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and hope to see you again soon.

 

Statue of  Peter The Great in the square in St. Petersburg, Russia 2001

I had the great privilege of staying at the Astoria Hotel, one of two five-star hotels in St. Petersburg and this was the view from my window. I keep the memories of my trip to Russia close to my heart. My trip was scheduled for 9/11/2001, and all flights were canceled for two weeks, but when I arrived it was a special moment. People knew I was American and they would come up to me and say how sorry they were about what happened in America. A special time indeed.

 

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday-Half Dome At Yosemite National Park

I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and hope to see you again soon.

This is my old-west version of Half Dome at Yosemite National Park. I can’t imagine what settlers thought when they crossed through on their journey.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Travel

Discovering the Charm of Chipata By Guest Blogger Wandering In Faith

 
Melinda
 
 
Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday-The Merced River In Yosemite National Park

I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday.

 

The Merced River in Yosemite National Park.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Mental Health · Travel

New Interview With Cindy Knoke, Photographer And Master Traveler

I have followed Cindy for years and she is a great friend. I always have questions with every post published, her photos draw you in. This is my third interview with Cindy, that’s how fascinating she is. 

What cameras are you using now?

I have only two types of cameras, one is my wildlife, birds, and flower camera that I use for macro photography. It is a Sony HX400V. I have several of these because Sony discontinued manufacturing them. They are a bit touchy and tend to break down. The one I am using now I bought in Japan, and the last new one I could find for sale from a private seller, and the camera is entirely in Japanese, which can be a bit of a challenge. I dearly love this camera because it has an adjustable lens that zooms up to 1200mm equivalent. It is also not at all expensive. I will eventually have to buy another brand with an adjustable lens and am looking at options. 
 
My second camera I use for everything else, landscapes, etc. It is a Sony RX10M4. I took the mountain goat photos with this camera so it can be for wildlife too, but lacks the extended zoom of the 400. I usually travel with both cameras, carrying one based on what I am expecting to see. Of course, I am often surprised, and have the wrong camera!
 

Do you have a Bucket List of places to visit and pick one or is it a random conversation that decides the next trip?

I love planning trips. It is definitely half the fun of travel. The only place left on our bucket list is Greenland which we are looking into now for 2024. There are some repeats we would like to do like Antarctica and Iguazu.

What excursion stands out close in your mind? 

Antarctica is definitely the most incredible place I have been. It was a spiritual experience for me. All this splendor is untouched by human hands and all the wildlife was unafraid of humans because they had no experience with them. Whales would spy-hop up and stare at you with their plate-sized eyes, Albatross would land on the boat, and penguins would waddle up to you and gently peck at the shiny buttons on your coat. Incredible. 
 
There was a Japanese whaling ship we encountered multiple times harpooning minke whales. Thankfully I never actually witnessed a harpooning, but I saw the loaded harpoons and the beautiful minkes. It was a reminder of human disregard for paradise and her creatures.
 
How do you describe yourself?
 
I am definitely not a professional photographer. I am an amateur hobbyist. I love photography because it fully immerses me in the moment. Completely focuses me on the here and now, with no distractions. I am a psychotherapist and Mental Health Director by training and the Zen aspect of photography fully appeals to me. I like the ability photographs have to communicate universal meaning with no words.  
 
What are your top two photos, where are they taken, and what makes them special?
 
Weirdly enough, two of my favorite photos were not taken on distant trips, but in my home state of California. One series is the tufas in Mono Lake and the other is the first photo of a desert reflecting pool in Palm Springs. I included the links to the posts with these photos. 
 

Mono Lake 

 

 

DSC07239 (1)

Palm Springs

Cindy is the kindest person and an inspiration who loves photography and traveling the world with her husband. 

Melinda

 

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday-Thirsty

I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.

In the Spring and Summer bees have a smorgasbord of flowers to choose from in my backyard.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday-Sydney Opera House

I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.

 

Sydney Opera House

Red, White, and Blue are the colors of the Australian Flag.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday

I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.
Statue of George Washington in Washington, D.C.

George Washington is a Founding Father and without his leadership skills, America would be different for all of us.

I wish the next President had his strength, love of America, and the opposite of what we have today.

My husband took this photo, how do I know this? He left the date on.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday- Hetch Hetchy, Yosemite

I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.

 

Hetch Hetchy, Yosemite

You could reach out to feel the water and spray. Most people don’t take the trail. We only saw one person on the trail.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Mental Health · Travel

Will The Person From Mauritius Contact Me?

I often wonder about the people who read my blog and are not on WordPress. I’m blessed to have most countries stop by at one time or another. I love to learn about where the readers come from, and often look at the globe to see their location and read about the area.

Photo by Porapak Apichodilok on Pexels.com

I read about the area and was blown away by the beauty of the island. The most beautiful blue water, I can imagine swimming or boarding while enjoying the crystal clear waters.

The person from Mauritius stops by almost every day and I would like to talk to thank them personally.

Would you please contact me?

I will write more posts about other countries that follow me. I get so excited when a country that I least expect, like today, Nepal, United Arab Emirates, Serbia, and Bangladesh.

Thanks.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

Wordless Wednesday *Sydney Harbor Bridge At Sunset

I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.

I love the beauty of the Habor Bridge and am so glad I didn’t climb it. Climbing the bridge was on my bucket list at the time but my back hurt the morning of. There were plenty of people climbing that day.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Travel

What Makes Travel Luxury? The Complete Guide

In a world brimming with possibilities, luxury travel transcends the ordinary, offering a symphony of experiences that tantalize the senses and ignite the soul. But what truly defines luxury in the realm of travel? ​

Understanding Luxury Travel

A travel concierge program isn’t merely about extravagant spending or lavish amenities; it’s about crafting a bespoke journey tailored to individual preferences and desires. Whether it’s a secluded island retreat, a cultural immersion in a historic city, or an adventure-filled expedition, luxury travel focuses on delivering unparalleled experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Personalization and Customization

One of the hallmarks of luxury travel is the emphasis on personalization. From the moment of booking to the final farewell, travelers expect a level of customization that reflects their unique tastes and preferences. This may include personalized itineraries, exclusive access to private tours and events, and accommodations tailored to individual needs.

Exclusivity and Privacy

Luxury travelers often seek privacy and exclusivity away from the crowds. Whether it’s a private villa nestled in a secluded paradise or a VIP experience at a renowned attraction, exclusivity adds an element of intimacy and indulgence to the travel experience.

Exceptional Service

Service excellence is paramount in luxury travel. From attentive butlers anticipating every need to concierge services that cater to even the most extravagant requests, impeccable service enhances the overall sense of luxury and comfort.

Elements of Luxury Travel

Accommodations

Luxury accommodations set the stage for an unforgettable travel experience. From boutique hotels with personalized service to ultra-luxurious resorts offering unparalleled amenities, the choice of accommodation plays a crucial role in defining the level of luxury.

Boutique Hotels: Intimate and stylish, boutique hotels offer personalized service and unique design elements that cater to discerning travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.

Luxury Resorts: Situated in breathtaking locations, luxury resorts boast world-class amenities such as private beaches, infinity pools, and award-winning spas, ensuring a truly indulgent stay.

Culinary Experiences

Fine Dining: Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chef-driven establishments offer gastronomic delights that elevate dining to an art form, creating memorable culinary experiences.

Farm-to-Table: Embracing the farm-to-table movement, luxury travelers seek out restaurants and culinary experiences that prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.

Transportation

Luxury travel extends beyond accommodations and dining to include transportation options that prioritize comfort, convenience, and exclusivity.

Private Jets: For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and convenience, private jet travel offers unparalleled comfort and flexibility, allowing travelers to bypass the hassles of commercial air travel.

Luxury Trains: Embarking on a journey aboard a luxury train evokes a sense of nostalgia and romance, with meticulously restored carriages and scenic routes that offer a glimpse into a bygone era of travel.

Experiential Activities

Cultural Immersion: Guided tours led by knowledgeable experts provide insights into the local culture, history, and traditions, allowing travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for their destination.

Adventure and Wellness: From heli-skiing in remote mountain ranges to indulgent spa retreats in exotic locales, luxury travelers seek out experiences that cater to their adventurous spirit and desire for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Planning a Luxury Trip

  • Destination Selection: Choose a destination that aligns with your interests and preferences, whether it’s a tropical paradise, a cosmopolitan city, or a remote wilderness.
  • Accommodation: Research luxury accommodations that offer the amenities and experiences you desire, taking into account factors such as location, reputation, and guest reviews.
  • Activities: Plan experiential activities and excursions that cater to your interests, whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or embarking on outdoor adventures.

Budgeting and Expenses

  • Establish a Budget: Determine your budget for the trip, taking into account factors such as accommodation, transportation, dining, and activities.
  • Allocate Funds: Allocate funds accordingly to ensure you can fully enjoy the luxury experiences you desire without overspending or compromising on quality.

Packing and Preparation

  • Pack Strategically: Pack essential items and clothing suitable for your destination and planned activities, taking into account any special requirements or dress codes.
  • Travel Documents: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and travel insurance, well in advance of your departure date.

The Future of Luxury Travel

Sustainable Tourism

Environmental Conservation: Luxury travelers are increasingly seeking out destinations and accommodations that prioritize environmental sustainability and conservation efforts, minimizing their carbon footprint and supporting eco-friendly initiatives.

Community Engagement: Sustainable tourism initiatives often involve meaningful engagement with local communities, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and economic empowerment.

Wellness and Mindfulness

Wellness Retreats: Wellness-focused luxury resorts and retreats offer holistic experiences that prioritize physical, mental, and emotional well-being, incorporating elements such as spa treatments, mindfulness practices, and healthy cuisine.

Digital Detox: As technology becomes increasingly pervasive, luxury travelers are seeking out destinations and experiences that allow them to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves and nature.

Safe travels, and may your journey always be filled with wonder, discovery, and the unmistakable allure of luxury.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Travel

The Ultimate Fishing Adventure: Exploring Tamarindo’s Rich Marine Life

Tucked away on the picturesque shores of Costa Rica, Tamarindo offers an unparalleled experience for fishing enthusiasts. From the adrenaline rush of reeling in a prized catch to the tranquil beauty of its marine ecosystem, this vibrant coastal town beckons adventurers seeking the ultimate fishing escapade. Join me as we dive into the depths of Tamarindo fishing charters and the area’s rich marine life and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for any angler.

A Gateway to Oceanic Splendor

Nestled along the northwest coast of Costa Rica, Tamarindo boasts a prime location blessed with abundant marine biodiversity. Its crystal-clear waters teem with a myriad of fish species, making it a haven for both novice anglers and seasoned fishermen alike. Whether you’re casting your line from the shore or venturing out into the open sea, Tamarindo offers endless opportunities to encounter the wonders of marine life up close.

Casting Off into Adventure

Embarking on a fishing excursion in Tamarindo is more than just a hobby—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. With a variety of charters and tours available, anglers can tailor their experience to suit their preferences and skill levels. Whether you prefer offshore trolling for trophy-sized billfish or inshore fishing for roosterfish and snapper, there’s something for everyone in Tamarindo’s diverse fishing scene.

The Thrill of the Chase

Picture yourself aboard a sturdy fishing vessel, the salty breeze in your hair and the sun warming your skin as you scan the horizon for signs of life beneath the waves. As your experienced captain navigates the turquoise waters, anticipation builds with each cast of your line. Suddenly, the reel sings its sweet melody, signaling the start of an exhilarating battle between angler and prey. Whether you’re wrestling with a feisty marlin or testing your skills against a powerful sailfish, the thrill of the chase is an experience like no other.

Conservation and Sustainability

While the thrill of landing a trophy fish is undeniable, responsible angling practices are paramount to preserving Tamarindo’s delicate marine ecosystem for future generations. Many local charters and fishing operators adhere to sustainable fishing practices, promoting catch-and-release techniques to minimize environmental impact. By respecting size limits and avoiding overfished areas, anglers can help ensure Tamarindo’s marine life’s long-term health and vitality.

Beneath the Surface: Marine Marvels Await

Beyond the excitement of angling, Tamarindo’s waters are home to a dazzling array of marine creatures waiting to be discovered. Strap on your snorkel and dive beneath the surface to encounter colorful coral reefs, graceful sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish darting through the water. For the more adventurous souls, scuba diving offers a chance to explore deeper realms where elusive creatures like octopuses and moray eels lurk among the submerged rock formations.

Savoring the Spoils: Culinary Delights of Tamarindo

After a day of casting lines and battling the elements, there’s no better way to unwind than by indulging in the culinary delights that Tamarindo has to offer. Head to one of the local seafood restaurants where expert chefs transform the day’s fresh catches into mouthwatering dishes bursting with flavor. From ceviche made with succulent mahi-mahi to grilled tuna steaks served with a side of plantains, each bite offers a taste of the ocean’s bounty. Pair your meal with a refreshing cocktail crafted from locally sourced ingredients and toast to the day’s adventures. With its vibrant culinary scene, Tamarindo invites you to savor the spoils of your fishing expedition in style.

Tips for Planning Your Fishing Adventure

  1. Choose the Right Charter: Research reputable fishing charters in Tamarindo and read reviews from previous anglers to ensure a memorable and safe experience.
  2. Pack Accordingly: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your fishing excursion.
  3. Listen to the Experts: Trust the guidance of your captain and crew—they know the local waters and can help maximize your chances of success.
  4. Embrace the Unexpected: Keep an open mind and be prepared for surprises along the way, whether spotting dolphins playing in the wake or reeling in a fish you never expected at the marine playground.

Q&A: Your Top Fishing Questions Answered

Q: What is the best time of year for fishing in Tamarindo? A: Peak fishing season in Tamarindo typically runs from December to April, coinciding with the dry season when offshore waters are calm and teeming with activity.
Q: What types of fish can I expect to catch in Tamarindo? A: Tamarindo offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, including marlin, sailfish, dorado, tuna, roosterfish, and snapper, among others.
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish in Tamarindo? A: Yes, all anglers are required to obtain a fishing license before casting their lines. Your charter operator can assist you in securing the necessary permits.
 

I bet your interest has peaked, check out all the wonders that await.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Travel

Help Ukraine *Support Locals By Buying Their Products

If you’re looking to support a local business in Ukraine, Etsy.com has many sellers from Ukraine.

I bought two handmade chair pads made on antique looms. Fortunately, this couple is far from fighting and living in the mountains and lovingly taking care of their sheep.

 WovenWoolArt  on Etsy is the shop I love. I’m also viewing the clothes made by the couple in Kosiv, Ukraine.

 

 

The shipping is high, but you must remember it’s coming from a country at war. It’s a miracle that anyone can find a mail station. She’s also generous with discounts on shipping if you buy more than one item.

I pray the fighting doesn’t wipe them out, they shared their concerns including the need for more weapons from America.

Let’s help the locals make a living during the war, they need all the support possible and the American people can help them.

Melinda