One Busy Bee

Continuing to walk along the Grand Canal on the wet pavement, you can hear the water splashing against the edges and little steps leading into the water. You can hear feet making splashes in the puddles and the many different languages of tourists. The gorgeous masquerade masks caught our eye and we tried a couple on. They're so beautiful, decorative and mysterious. Who's behind the mask? I have always wanted to go to a masquerade ball. We reached our first bridge and it was wide and covered with tourists and locals probably a tad bit irritated of so many of us being in their way. We stood at the summit, above the Grand Canal and we wanted a picture. Check! Ron wanted a picture of him clicking his heels down the stairs. Check! and Click! We continued on and found ourselves a map. It was getting dark and it had started to rain. We didn't want to go down dark alleys so we stuck to a busy road. People were prepared with their rain boots but still had cones with gelato in ...

We arrived on the ship and were immediately greeted with champagne and mimosas. We were amazed at the view from the rear staircase down to the main floor where a band would play nightly and six glass elevators climb floors 2-14. The wrapped staircase from floor 3-4 is lit up and the game room, library and lounge can be seen above. There was so much to explore. We found our room on the 9th floor and a balcony was really not necessary. The inside stateroom is quite comfortable and large, you will not feel claustrophobic. There were two comfy, twin beds, robes hanging in the closet, a flat screen tv, an equipped bathroom, and full fridge. Our luggage was not going to arrive for awhile so we freshened up as much as we can and grabbed something to eat at the cafe. The food was in abundance and soo good. We have cocktails with every meal and so much to choose from, from a carving station, salad, sandwich station, and of course dessert! The lemon cod was the best..of that meal. The dining...

What a day! We landed much more smoothly in Venice than we did in JFk, New York. I was so excited to get my first stamp in my passport. I look at it afterwards and the stamp is faint. I feel cheated. Then off to go get our bags and meet Celebrity to catch our boat. "It's a ship, Daddy!" (Titanic movie reference). Taking a bus to our boat and passing the local little communities and massive bodies of water was amazing to see. I couldn't believe I was in a place I have been wanting to go in at least 10 years. I couldn't wait to explore. But first we had to board the ship. It feels like forever since I've showered. All the oiliness was covered by my Stella & Dot cap that now has to be washed. We get to the terminal and are greeted by a Celebrity employee. She hands us paperwork and tells us to take a seat and wait for our level to be called. Ron and I continued our Scrabble game and Ron enjoyed the cute, thin, young employees dressed all in black and ...

There is no doubt the city will bounce back after Super Storm Sandy. Ron and I just landed in New York, JFK airport for a 2.5 hour layover on our way to Venice. Last night, Spencer stopped by the house to say Bon voyage. Roomie met him and of course was well-liked. Man of the Earth, as I call him for his many experiences traveling all over the world, is great. We spoke of my itinerary, a few memories of his travels and had many laughs as usual. He recommended a travel guide by Lonely Planet but we weren't able to stop by a Barnes & Noble before heading to Kingfish for dinner and drinks. Bevo sat on my lap while Spencer's visit before he became interested with his bone. I knew I was going to miss him so much. He sleeps with me every night and wakes me up with kisses. I said my goodbyes to my Puppy Love. This was the longest time I was going to be away from him in 4 years. He usually travels with us often. But I know he's in good hands with Roomie. Roomie drove me ...

Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants on sweeping the Detroit Tigers in the 2012 World Series! I was bowling with my league during Game 4 that was taking place in Detroit. We finished our third game and some stayed to watch history being made. 'Gramps', I believe the owner or family member of the owner of the bowling alley came out with the broom in celebration. In regards to a celebration, I can't say I'm proud of some Giants fans that took to the streets and vandalized, mugged and trashed the home of the Champions. Similar acts happened in 2010 and it's quite an embarrassment to the city. Where's the pride? What do you think the punishment should be for such unnecessary and destructive acts? The parade happens tomorrow in Dan Francisco. I will not be in attendance but I'm sure great photos will be posted. Again, congratulations to the Bay area and the San Francisco Giants!

The holidays are upon us! Shop for your holiday gifts at one of these events and definitely come say hello at my booth! Check back here often for additional details and other events. I have great Stella & Dot samples available for sale at a great discount, or items for order. Saturday, December 1, 2012 - 10 am - 3 pm. 4449 Shannondale Dr., Antioch, California I will be there with Stella & Dot . Along with Pampered chef, Thirty-One Gifts, Stampin Up, Mary Kay, Kacies Knitted Creations, and Wine Sisters. Stay tuned for more info. Sunday, December 2, 2012 - 12 pm - 6 pm. 11 Cindy Place, Brentwood California Celena Miller is ArtC is having an open house showcasing her artwork by assignment. View samples and order a customized painting of your favorite liquor bottles for your home bar or restaurant, a great wedding present or for a family member of your mixed horoscope signs, or handmade hair pieces for a wedding or other special occasion. There will also be a special d...

Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants making it to the World Series against the Detroit Tigers! The excitement starts tomorrow, Wednesday, October 24th at 5 PM in San Francisco. GO GIANTS!!!! Update: 10/28/12 Series is 3-0 Giants. GOOO Giants! Loved the three homers by Panda in Game 1.