December 28, 2015

Tanya's Daily Scoop
NEXT TRIP DEPARTS IN: 11 DAYS

A surprise film location!

Well folks Monday is here, the last Monday of the year and for those of you who had to go to the office today at least you will probably only have a 3 day work week ahead of you.
And then yet another wonderful extended holiday weekend!!

No choir for us tonight, as the kids are on break - so for me it's probably gonna throw off my concept of the week and what day it is...
Since we've been spending Monday evenings at choir rehearsal since the Dominic was 6 years old, it kinda throws me off when we are "on break".

And since having an open Monday, I filled it with a horseback riding lesson for Cosette and a class for Dominic later this evening - I made sure that they wanted to do these things - if they wanted the week off then so be it!

Jayson, the kids friend is still over and he will stay with us until after Cosette's lesson.
The kids have been having a blast having him over.

The days have been filled with games, laughter, running around, and even playing outside - which sadly is something you just don't hear kids doing much of these days. ​

Yesterday, we went to go see the 5:15p showing of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which although they have showings every half hour, they still happened to be SOLD OUT!
​
So we opted for the 6:10p showtime instead, and rather than waiting empty handed, while some of our group stood in line, we went into Starbucks - and if you know me then you know that I'm not a big fan of Starbucks, so thus I happen to be one of the worst when it comes to ordering (it's actually quite comical) I don't know what I'm doing and I ask lots of questions! Such a ROOKIE! Hahaha

Once in the theatre, and once the film had started, I was expecting a roar of the excited crowd - but I guess gone are the days of cheering and "hooting" at the movie screen (at least in these parts).

The movie was actually not all that bad, I actually enjoyed it - remember I am not a Star Wars fan.
And the last scene in the movie had really caught my attention...
Since it was filmed on Skellig Michael, in Ireland!

Rising 230 meters above the see, the mystic island, which holds the ruins of an ancient monastery, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Skellig Michael, which is also known as Great Skellig, is the larger of two islands located 7.2 miles west of the Iveragh Peninsula in Co. Kerry. 

And this mysterious island was the main reason for my visit back to Ireland last August (2014).

With many people not having any knowledge about this UNESCO site, so much so that they used it as a location in a "Far off Galaxy" so of course seeing it in the film had excited me, and I turned to whisper it to DC and the kids "Hey I was there!" Dominic was the most thrilled by this bit of knowledge and wanted to know exactly what "it" was.
​And know I wonder if the kids will ask to go visit Skellig Michael during our upcoming (2018) planned trip to Ireland - which sadly will be impossible...
​We are going for St. Patricks Day and the islands are only open to visitors from April - October.

Anyhow after the movies we then came back home and I made homemade Calzones, and we showed Jayson how to make homemade pizza.

We all enjoyed a big family dinner again, and then stayed around the table and played Wits and Wagers, the new board game that we got for Christmas.
All in all it was another fun family day!!

​I hope that you have been enjoying your holiday as much as we have been enjoying ours!

See ya back here tomorrow for one of my favorite features - Travelin' Tuesday.

Toodles,
​-T

Elisa's Daily Scoop
CURRENTLY TRAVELING IN
BOCA RATON, FLORIDA

A Visit to Wellington, Florida

Hello and welcome as we enter the last week of 2015.  Boy, did this year go fast!!!

I also cannot believe that my Florida trip is almost over.  We are scheduled to leave Wednesday for New York, which quite frankly, I'm not looking forward to our departure (insert sad face).

On that note, let me move on to something more positive and tell you about our day yesterday...

Considering we didn't do much this week in the way of activity, we decided to take a little excursion to Wellington for some shopping at Dover Saddlery.

Since my girls are more than a tad bit obsessed with all things "horse", we decided that a family shopping experience at an equestrian store would be a fun way to spend the afternoon.

The girls made their way around the store like pros; checking out all the various departments.  Grandma was very impressed with their knowledge and navigation around all areas of the store!

In addition to picking out some new grooming supplies (which they plan to share), each girl bought a new saddle pad as well.  They used the money they received as Christmas gifts from Grandma and Grandpa for their shopping spree.

Now, Dover Saddlery, has both retail stores and and online store. The particular store we visited today is located in Wellington, Florida.

Wellington is located in Palm Beach County in South Florida. Although it is known for its abundant parks, quality schools and attractive neighborhoods, it is most notable as a city of strong equestrian interest.

Wellington is home to an international equestrian community featuring more than 57 miles of trails. This elaborate trail system provide residents the opportunity for recreation, exercise and transportation throughout the community. Wellington's equestrian trails are designed for multiple uses, including hiking, biking, running and equestrian activities.

According to the city's website, "Wellington's goal is to plan, enhance and promote a year-round World Class Equestrian Community. It is envisioned that this will be a collaborative effort to promote a stronger partnership between Wellington, residents, businesses and equestrian interests, ensuring continued equestrian growth for generations to come."

The city is well known for its outstanding equestrian programs, activities and events for all to enjoy while maintaining the "the Great Hometown" ambiance.
​
After shopping, we headed over to Tijuana Flats for a bite to eat and dined al fresco, since it was a very lovely day!

Today, is absolutely gorgeous out!!

I took a great, long walk this morning and then sat outside by the pool.  

Going to play it by ear and see what the day brings!

Have a great one!!

-E
xoxo