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Travel: The Ultimate Event

I had an opportunity a couple weeks ago to visit two states- Oregon and Washington- and cities- Portland and Seattle- for the first time.

Portland is fantastic. It feels like a small town with character, culture and kind people. The public transportation is plentiful with buses, trains and trolleys. I was able to find my way around fairly easily, with the need to hitchhike only once. This was the first- and last- time I'll do that. Seeing as how it was inside a state park for only a few miles, and with a family, I considered it safe. But kids- don't try that at home.

If you're visiting Portland in the near future, be sure to check out: Powell's Books- Several floors with numerous books containing any you could possibly want! McMemanin's- A Portland staple for local food and drinks.

Japanese Garden in Washington Park- It's certainly a hike to get to, but if you're up for it, you'll find yourself in a majestic, beautiful spot that provides the most authentic Japanese Garden outside of Japan.

Then there's Seattle. Ah, Seattle. It may have been love at first sight for me. This city is spectacular. From what I learned, I was lucky and caught it on an especially nice day. My hotel was one block from the Space Needle, which is a must see. From there, you can take the monorail into the city center. Just a few blocks of walking and you'll come to the Fish Market where there is quite a scene. The men who work there put on quite a show. I arrived eager to catch a fish (after seeing this on TV several times), but learned that it doesn't work quite like that. After explaining that I have a "bucket list" and needed to check off this experience, they let me partake. I thought these guys would go easy on me and throw a small trout. Or a goldfish, perhaps. Not the case. This gill-bearing friend was at least two feet long and very heavy.

Nevertheless, I caught it.

Other "bucket list" items for Seattle- check these out next time you're there: First Starbucks – Right down the street from the Fish Market. Gum Wall- Underneath the Fish Market. Just ask, someone will show you the way. Troll (under a bridge)- In Freemont area, a taxi ride outside of the city center.

There is so much to do in this town! Hm. That must be why everyone remains sleepless…

R Lounge

The Event Nut loves the R Lounge in Studio City! It's a completely renovated, chic, and modern venue for corporate and social events located on Ventura Blvd. For more information, check out this link or contact The Event Nut team directly:

www.rlounge.us

And click on "Book Your Event" to see details on what the space offers for you and your clients!

Silent Meditation Retreat: A Different Kind of Event!

I recently returned from a 10-day silent meditation retreat in Onelaska, Washington. Yes, I was silent for 10 days. 240 hours. It was an experience, that's for sure. Every day we were up at 4am and learned a particular style of meditation. We ate two meals per day, with tea and fruit provided in the early evening. The accommodations were simple, yet clean and modern.

To be honest, 10 days was not enough. In the beginning, there is a definite learning curve, but by the end of the time, I was ready for more. There are 20, 30, even 40-day courses around the world. And these are all free! Donations are accepted, as is your time spent serving in one way or another. But the idea is to deflate the ego and be grateful for all that you are given- meals, lodging, course instruction- without ever feeling entitled or expecting too much.

It's a wonderful concept and an incredible program. If you'd like to learn more and grow yourself in ways you never imagined possible, here is the link to

Vipassana Meditation: http://www.dhamma.org/

Carmel

Event folks- if you haven't considered Carmel for a destination to hold an event, consider again.

This past weekend we had the opportunity to visit this adorable seaside town and stay at the exquisite Vagabond's House Inn. We were thoroughly impressed.

The entire experience, from start to finish, was enjoyable, quaint and top-notch.

Upon arriving at The Vagabond's House Inn (www.vagabondshouseinn.com), we were greeted with a plate of cheese and crackers, paired with the wine of our choice. Our room resembled what it would feel like to stay in someone's guest house as opposed to a standard hotel. The unique accommodations came complete with fun local art, a gorgeous gas fireplace (with sherry for a nightcap) and a full kitchen. Breakfast orders are taken beforehand and the meal is delivered to your room the next morning.

We only had one night in town so dining at the sister property, the Cypress Inn (www.cypress-inn.com), was at the top of our list. This inn was equally as charming, with attentive service and delicious food (I highly recommend the cheese plate appetizer). We saw a first while there: dogs in the piano bar. Both Vagabond's House and Cypress Inn are pet-friendly, lending themselves to a very fun, relaxing atmosphere!

The folks who manage these venues create a warm, serene environment, as if they're opening the doors to their own home and inviting you inside. It's positively wonderful.

If the event location is a concern, look no further than the Sunset Center (www.sunsetcenter.org). A staple for AT&T conferences, it offers space for 1283 guests in the multiple rooms and theatre for dining, presentations and performances.

So take advantage of this town and enjoy. We can't wait to return!

Spring Awakening

Here's to a wonderful 2nd Quarter!

It can be a bit daunting when this time of year rolls around. There's no doubt about that.

Perhaps your first quarter sales quota wasn't met or you've already managed to completely forget each New Year's resolution. This is usually when you're no longer writing the incorrect year on checks and wonder where the days have gone. Summer vacations are quickly being planned, soon the kids will be out of school and for those of us in Southern California (the Valley, in particular), it's time to flip the switch on the good old, electric-bill-raising AC. Everything seems to be happening at a rapid pace.

Let's not forget that there are many fantastic things about the 2nd Quarter. Baseball season is back! Taxes are- hopefully- a thing of the past. And, even if you're not one to celebrate Easter, there's still an abundance of peeps, jelly beans and chocolate bunnies to enjoy at every store in town.

Spring is a new beginning. Flowers bloom…birds chirp…days are longer…gyms have promotions. With so much to look forward to, does it really matter if you have to shovel your car out of it's parking space one more time or sit for an extra hour on the 405?

Embrace this time of year. Appreciate nature's transition. Make it a point to actually stop and smell the roses as often as possible. Before you know it, it'll be summer. Have fun!

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