Tag Archives: massage

Greatest story never told

It is that time of year again… time to think about the Earth… actually, EVERY day is earth day as long as we live on this planet.

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A few ways to consider making your pets greener this year and contributing to the health of the planet.

1. Feed your dog raw, fresh homemade food (locally grown organic) and/or pet food without pesticides, chemicals, processing (no kibble or cans)…

It was found in a study that our pets live longer when fed a natural diet and it is better for the planet.

http://www.findavet.us/2010/04/dogs-fed-processed-food-die-earlier-study-shows/

Our favorite food, Dr Harvey’s has a new dog food (and cat food) called Oracle… which includes meat… we have not tried it yet but am sure that Cici will LOVE it…

  • Just add water for a complete meal in minutes!
  • Makes homemade and raw feeding easy.
  • Freeze-Dried Raw USDA Meats
  • No Preservatives or Chemical Additives
  • Available in Grain-Free Formulas

http://www.drharveys.com/products/show/74-oracle

2.  Consider using natural therapies for your pets… acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage, hydrotherapy, homeopathic remedies, music and supplements are easier on the body and planet. Even can be easier on the wallet if you consider the high cost of vet care and drugs.

A green pet first aid kit

http://celiasue.com/2011/04/20/green-pet-first-aid-kit/

3. Teach your kitty how to use the toilet and/or use corn, wheat or newspaper pellets instead of clay and clumping clay litter.  Clay and clumping clay litter can have health hazards for kittens and cats and the mining of the clay is detrimental for the earth.

http://www.citikitty.com/

4. Become informed and educated about New Energy, Free Energy and

energy propulsion that can bring us to a new era of universal peace, eradicate poverty, and more.

It is time for the truth to be known: we are not alone in the Cosmos…and
WE ARE NOT ALONE — HERE ON EARTH.

Dr. Steven Greer, founder of the worldwide Disclosure Movement and the Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Intelligence is working with Emmy award winning filmmaker Amardeep Kaleka and his team at Neverending Light Productions to produce one of the most significant films of our time.

This film exposes the greatest story never told:

“Once people understand that classified projects have figured out how UFO’s operate, they will realize we no longer need oil, coal and nuclear power. This is the truth that has driven the secrecy.”

On April 22, today, the film Sirius, will premiere in Los Angeles.  You can download it to watch it at home.

Sounds too good to be true? Check it out here…

http://siriusdisclosure.com/NewEnergy/?referrer=67107932mlo0n9

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Filed under Adventure, affordable housing, air, animal planet, around the world, au natural dog, cats, dog friendly, dog health, dogs, eco friendly/green, family friendly, four paws up, organic, pet food, Sirius, Uncategorized

eco friendly spa in the woods…

stevenswood spa

a black lab, 7 years young, greets you in the lobby… and it smells delicious when you walk into the lobby, with spa ambiance music playing in the background…

we stayed in a very large suite called LeBallister Queen Suite with a fireplace, tv, internet, honor bar, two plush chairs, two chairs with a table to eat by a window, upscale, modern, coffee maker, hot tub outside, trail, very peaceful and quiet … Stevenswood uses clean flame, earth friendly, eco-friendly firelogs.

pet fee per stay is $50 non-returnable and pet amenities include bowl, bed, treats, and toy plus there is a nice grassy area in the back for dogs and a trail with grassy area near to where you park your car…

All of the very modern and spacious ten suites are pet friendly and have Cordless Telephones, Complimentary Wireless Internet, Hair Dryers, Luxurious Spa Ammenities, Irons, Coffee Maker, Desk Speaker Phone, Upgraded Italian Glass Vanity, Imported Cork Flooring from Portugal, Italian Microfibre Furnishings, Bathroom finished in Imported Sea Green Slate from Madagascar, Luggage Racks, Spa Robes & Evening Turn-Down Service.

had a yummy breakfast, there was a choice of numerous tempting entries from waffles, pancakes, to omelettes. I chose an omelette with spinach, mushrooms and cheddar cheese, it was huge, light and fluffy and came with a fresh fruit cup and tasty scone. Pastry flour and whipping cream are the secret to their wonderfully light scones.

Indigo Eco|Spa

Guests can sample a variety of body, skin and facial treatments centered on the beauty and power of the sea. The Eco-Spa is committed to the use of products and resources which have the least impact on the ecosystem. Locally formulated utilizing only the very finest organic botanicals, raw ingredients and ecologically sensitive methods, Indigo is a certified Eco|Spa.

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Filed under dog friendly, K9 travel, pet friendly lodging, spoil your dog rotten

inn at schoolhouse creek rocks…

The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek on the Mendocino Coast provides dogitude… oceanside cottages and rooms on over nine acres with lush gardens, meadows and forested land and cliffside cottages where you can watch gorgeous sunsets. There is even a donkey cottage for two donkeys. We stayed at the cypress cottage with a kitchenette, queen bed, couch, its own little yard located right next door to the office…the pet amenities are in a chest in each of the cottages, with bowls, blankets, toys and more, and the flowers are in bloom now and it’s quite lovely…

ocean views, fireplaces, cliffside cottages, hot tubs, Jacuzzi tubs, delicious breakfasts, spa services, afternoon wine and cheese yappy hour and more.

Lounge by the fire, pour a glass of wine, walk on the beach, get a massage in the yurt or just sit and watch the sunset above the ocean.

Ask for the Pampered Pooch Package
Show that special four legged friend in your life how much you care with a special gift basket on arrival. Basket includes a dog bathrobe (yes you read it right they do make dog bathrobes!), bag of gourmet dog treats, an adorable Zanies stuffed friend, a toss toy – perfect for playing with on the pet meadow, a ceramic dog dish and a Brite Bones lite at night for you and your pet.

cypress

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Filed under dog friendly, Mendocino, pet friendly lodging, pet travel

chocolate, and dog walking and eucalyptus, oh my !

The pet friendliest place to stay when you and your pooch need some luxurious pampering in Newport Beach is the Island Hotel, located adjacent to the Fashion Island Mall. Pet amenities include a freshly baked fragrant and chewy dog bone made by Executive Pastry Chef Michael Owens. Each bone is handcrafted from wheat and rice flour and chicken stock. Other amenities include two dog bowls, a plush pet bed by Eloise Pet Accessories emblazoned with the hotel logo, bottled water, (plus a seasonal fruit amenity for the owner) and they also offer dog walking services for $10. There is a huge grassy area along the side, near the front door where dogs can zoom around and sniff to their heart’s delight.

Just minutes from Newport Harbor overlooking the nearby islands of Balboa, Lido and Catalina, Island Hotel Newport Beach features amenities such as Palm Terrace Restaurant & Lounge; a 4,000-square-foot spa; a 3,000-square-foot resort-style pool; a fitness center; two outdoor; lighted tennis courts; and over 30,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel is owned and operated by The Irvine Company, a 110-year-old, privately held real estate investment company based in Newport Beach, CA.

The warm, friendly attitude and friendly demeanor at the Island Hotel extends to check-in, valet and every guest feels welcome. The rooms are tastefully decorated, appointed with a desk and comfy chair, king bed, and bathroom stocked with L’Occitane shampoo, shower gel and body lotion.

When you’re in the mood for a romantic getaway, ask for the Romance Package which includes a complimentary upgrade to the next room category plus champagne and chocolates upon arrival. Throughout the year, the hotel offers various specials and packages for its guests. Check the website at www.IslandHotel.com or call 1-888-321-4752 for more info.

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Spa

Be sure to ask for Saiko when you book your massage. Saiko Thornton has been with The Spa at Island Hotel for two years. Previously, she was working with a Chinese acupuncture doctor in nearby Irvine, CA. Born in Japan, she specializes in Swedish, Shiatsu, and energy work. She is a very versatile and top massage therapist. Saiko has been exercising her fingers since the age of nine in her native Japan. Her expert kneading will work out all the knots and leave you relaxed and refreshed. There is a menu of massage options from reflexology to aromatherapy. The Travel Recovery massage comes complete with aromatherapy oils (heated ones such as ginger for the upper body and cooling ones such as lemongrass and peppermint for the feet and lower body). There is a eucalyptus steam bath for before and after the massage. Afterwards, there is a fruit kabob and lemon scented water to drink.

A romantic option, Kai Pua Ritual, a “Hawaiian” getaway for two is accompanied by two therapists. The synchronized “Ocean Two” long wave strokes simulate a tide moving across the body. Working in unison with soft Hawaiian music in the background, the two therapists massage with warm cocoa butter. Also included is a welcome Washing of the Feet Ritual using a salt, pineapple and papaya scrub, and the “double the enjoyment” session ends decadently with champagne and chocolate truffles. Available throughout 2009. 60 minutes. For reservations, please call (949) 759-0808.

And just in case, Fido feels left out, The Spa at Island Hotel retails various beauty products for pets, including candles, colognes and a doggie beauty bag by Pet Aromatic; as well as shampoo, conditioner, bubble bath, a facial scrub and paw
treatment by Spa Lavish Pet.

Dining

The Palm Terrace restaurant offers a delightful variety of items from seafood to lamb, organic chicken and delicious side dishes.

The meal begins with your choice of waters and several types of freshly made breads, such as olive, sour dough, cheese, and banana, Next, comes the appetizers, smoked salmon on a tiny pancake, mac and cheese (not your supermarket comfort food), and delicate, sweet scallops with fingerling potatoes. Entrees include New Zealand salmon and you can opt for a baked potato instead of the regular side dish. Beware, the potatoes are huge and come with sour cream and cheese, a meal within itself. Don’t forget to get a doggie bag filled with scrumptious leftovers for Fido.

Cocoa Lounge Dessert Buffet During The Month of February

oh yes, there is ALWAYS room for chocolate and now there is an entire room filled with chocolate desserts ! Visit the Cocoa Room. For the month of February, the Cocoa Room offers an artistic and decadent assortment of chocolate desserts from flourless chocolate cake, to chocolate lollipops, three chocolate cake, truffles, explorer, s’mores, mousses, and much more. Executive Pastry Chef Michael Owens brings chocolate heaven to a whole new level. Working closely with Executive Chef Bill Bracken, Owens constantly develops inventive new desserts for Palm Terrace.

Newport beach

Muttropolis Dog & Cat Boutique at the Fashion Island Mall offers a diverse variety of toys, treats, foods, collars, leashes and beds. Russo’s Pet Experience, allows hotel guests who are missing their pets at home, to take one of the pet store dogs out for a walk around the shopping center. And the mall itself is an open place to walk your dog to meet and greet.

Fashion Island
1133 Newport Center Dr
Newport Beach,
California
800-495-4753


OTHER PET FRIENDLY HOTELS IN NEWPORT BEACH

Fairmont Newport Beach
The Fairmont combines European traditions with California flair. Amenities include large outdoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness facilities and more. Bambu Restaurant and Lounge serves California cuisine and cocktails. Small pets allowed. Pet fee is $25 per pet per night.

Best Western Newport Beach Inn
Best Western is located near Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza. The hotel is minutes away from Catalina Cruises, Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach. Amenities include complimentary continental breakfast, outdoor heated swimming pool, high speed Internet DSL and cable television. 100% smoke free. Pets under 20 pounds allowed. Pet fee $50.

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach allows one pet under 40 lbs. in each guest room, but larger pets may be accepted at the manager’s discretion. There is a nightly fee of $10 for the pet, plus a one-time cleaning fee of $75 per stay. All guests with pets must sign a pet waiver at check-in, and pets must not be left unattended in the room at any time. Pets are not allowed in any food and beverage outlets, pool or health club areas on property, and any disturbances, such as barking, must be stopped immediately so other guests are not disturbed. If the disturbance continues you will be asked to take your pet off the property.

DOG FRIENDLY BEACHES

Corona Del Mar State Beach
Iris Street and Ocean Blvd.
Corona Del Mar,
California
949-644-3151
This is a popular beach for swimming, surfing and diving. The sandy beach is about a half mile long. Dogs are allowed on this beach during certain hours. They are allowed before 9am and after 5pm, year round. Pets must be on a 6 foot or less leash. Tickets will be issued if your dog is off leash.

Newport and Balboa Beaches
Balboa Blvd.
Newport Beach,
California
949-644-3211
There are several smaller beaches which run along Balboa Blvd. Dogs are only allowed before 9am and after 5pm, year round. Pets must be on a 6 foot or less leash and people are required to clean up after their pets. Tickets will be issued if your dog is off leash. The beaches are located along Balboa Blvd and ample parking is located near the Balboa and Newport Piers.

Upper Newport Bay Regional Park
University Dr & Irvine Ave
Newport Beach,
California
949-640-1751
This regional park borders the Newport Back Bay and consists of approximately 140 acres of open space. This coastal wetland is renowned as one of the finest bird watching sites in North America. During winter migration, there can be tens of thousands of birds at one time. It is also home to six rare or endangered bird species. The park has a 2-3 mile one-way paved path that is used by walkers, joggers and bicyclists. Additional dirt trails run along the hills. You can park at a variety of points along the road, but many people park at Irvine Ave and University Dr. Dogs must be leashed in the park.

PET FRIENDLY BAKERY

Three Dog Bakery
924 Avocado Ave
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 760-3647
www.threedogbakery.com

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Filed under California, chocolate, dog friendly, dog spa, dog travel, dog treats, four paws up, K9 approved, K9 travel, New Zealand, pet friendly lodging

Peace and quiet only an hour away from LA

If you live in southern California, Los Angeles area, San Diego or Palm Springs, and have never been to Idyllwild, you must go.  It is as simple as that. This is a divine place. I went there before I had Cici, and I will return with her and it will be another amazing experience.  Getting back to the woods. We all suffer from nature deficient disorder living our busy lives in urban surroundings. It is time to kick back, take your shoes off and relish the silence. 

This is what I wrote about being there… 

I did not realize how much I missed the sounds of silence until I stayed one hour away from Palm Springs and Los Angeles in Idyllwild, California.  Idyllwild provides all of the ingredients for a romantic or creative interlude: privacy, scenic splendor, chocolate, good food and wine, and palpable peace and quiet.  A perfect place for a restful and rejuvenating retreat from city life, majestic trees, mountain scenery, fresh clean air, birds singing, squirrels playing, and stars at night. If you are an artist or writer, this is a fabulous place for a retreat. 

Idyllwild is located in the San Jacinto mountains of Southern California, tucked away in the remote, southern portion of the San Bernardino National Forest above Palm Springs.  At 10,804 feet above sea level, Mt. San Jacinto is the second tallest mountain in Southern California. 

Idyllwild is known for its breathtaking beauty. But it also hosts numerous cultural events (art galleries, music festivals, theatrical productions) as well as outdoor activities (horseback riding, rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, camping and mountain biking). In the summer, Idyllwild also offers respite from the summer heat. And a midweek stay is always good. 

Unique one-of-a-kind gifts can be found in the numerous gift shops, perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day and other holiday shopping. You can also combine art viewing with shopping at Everitt’s Minerals & Gallery and Willow Creek Gallery. 

Personally, I prefer the wild serenity and relaxation option of the spa experience.  Dining out at natural food cafes such as Natures Wisdom and Idyllwild Green are a nice home away from home treat.  Anna Bielecki is a fabulous hostess and makes amazing all natural chocolate treats. 

If you and your sweetie are looking for a cozy, romantic setting for Valentine’s Day, your anniversary,  or just because, try the Restaurant Gastrognome or the Gnome as the locals call it. The ambiance is private and enjoyable, the food elegant and delicious and the service superb. Go for the specials such as lobster tacos. And the chocolate dessert cake rates a 10+ on the choco-delicious meter.  

http://www.idyllwildbureauoftourism.com/

And if you want a romantic location for a wedding, why not consider getting married in Idyllwild. Rev. Richard Cadieux will be happy to conduct your ceremony. Plus, you can honeymoon at his Cedar Street Inn & Spa where romance reigns in an atmosphere of old world sophistication. The conference room is perfect for seminars. Vow renewal and small wedding ceremonies, who could ask for anything more?  

Last time I spoke with Richard, a couple of months ago he told me that he is creating a wedding ministry, to go out and perform weddings because more and more brides want a wedding that is non-denominational, in an out of doors setting, done by a wedding official.  There will be 2.4 million weddings in 2008 and the average cost is $28K. 

And Cedar Street Inn and Spa is a pet-friendly hotel and an award winning inn. Plus, Idyllwild’s finest massage therapists and esthetician practice their healing art at the Cedar Street Inn and Spa.

http://www.cedarstreetinn.com

Two other don’t miss romantic hideaways are Strawberry Creek Inn and the Rainbow Inn. I stayed in the Bear Den room at the Rainbow Inn… comfy, with a lot of modern amenities and nice breakfast. Innkeepers Lon and John were not there at the time but the ambiance was wonderful. 

http://www.rainbow-inn.com/The_Bear_Denx.htmll

The difference between a mediocre host and a par excellent one are the attention to the details. Ian and Rodney at the Strawberry Creek Inn offer guests a cozy all natural setting. I stayed in the Evergreen Room with a fireplace, and an eco-friendly coffee log to set on the fire. Plus, they treated me to delicious chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast and some other cacao goodies.  I truly felt welcomed.

http://www.strawberrycreekinn.com/

Drink in nature at its finest… Idyllwild is a feast for the body and soul…

Pet friendly Idyllwild…  dog friendly lists several parks, events and lodging….

http://www.dogfriendly.com/server/travel/uscities/guides/w/cities/wonlinecityCAIdyllwild.shtml

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Filed under AAA, air, B&B's, bunny rabbits, CA, California, chocolate travel, dark chocolate, dogs, drive, driving, four paws up, Idyllwild, K9 approved, K9 travel, mutts, Palm Springs, pet friendly lodging, rainbows, travel, travel with dog, travelwriting, wine, women travel, writing