Memories......

I commute to work with a fellow employee. She lives about 4 blocks away and picks me up after dropping her daughter off at school. We have a great relationship, I am dramatically older, 2 FULL days, her brother is gay and lives with is partner in Chicago, and I entertain her with jokes. On Friday she asked me to bring in a picture of my family. after hearing storied about them, she wanted a visual. So today I bought in two photos, one of my mom and one of the whole family. Mom's picture was taken just before her health started to fail, taken in my parent's home at the time. The second is my brother's wedding about 20 years ago.
My mom was just past her 70th birthday and is the last picture she had taken. Though this is the picture I have in my room of her, I remember her as she was in the mid 1960s. When our birthday parties were events to be celebrated, ice cream in individual containers with wooden 'spoons, cupcakes topped with coconut tinted in different colors, birthday cake and games. For my older brother's fifth birthday there was a rented pony for rides. This was a big deal in suburban New Jersey.
The wedding picture is from the late 80s when my younger brother got married the first time. It was held in a boy's school in Subiaco, Arkansas. Yes, out in the middle of nowhere, halfway between Little Rock and Ft Smith, right near the nuclear plant in Clarksville. It was a fun time, most of us flew into Memphis to my parent's home at the time and then we drove over to the wedding. I drove my father's Tempo(a real stylish ride) with Mitzi and Dawn my two sister in laws. I remember the drive and we had a good time.
Though I only looked at two pictures memories flooded back of these events and others too, family vacations, holiday preparations and meals among others. So break out the old photo album and take a stroll down memory lane with your family. For future memories, call Damron Vacations and plan a trip off your bucket list, time will not wait.

Ancient Greece, birthplace of.......

Democracy, modern civilization and gay rights. Athens the capital of the Greek civilization was the center of knowledge and learning at its zenith. It laid the foundation of many of today's practices.
There was the democratic form of government originated in Athens approximately 500 BC. All while males were allowed to vote on the issues. Previously only the wealthy elite controlled all the power. This was a turning point and a launch of modern society.
Though still a society of classes, the poor had the same voice as the wealthy. One man, one vote. The population would meet to discuss the issues before casting their ballots. I wonder if their campaigns lasted for almost two years with ENDLESS commercials?
In regards to gay rights, homosexuality was just a part of nature. There was no stigmatism associated with it. In fact it was promoted in the army since soldiers would be less likely to leave a lover on the battlefield than just another soldier. Legions of homosexual men conquered vast areas for Athens. What gay man would have passed up the chance to watch the Ancient Olympics? Hot sweaty athletes performing in the nude. WOOF!!! Many of he Greek gods were also at least bisexual. Zeus and Ganymede, Apollo had many lovers, along with Hercules. Diana had females lovers also.
After the Classical Age and the start of the Dark Ages, homosexuality became a social taboo. Laws were enacted against homosexual acts, and people were condemned to death. Though the punishment by death faded into the past, the acceptance of homosexuals did not gain momentum until the 1960s. With the hippie movement and free love, social norms began to fall. As society relaxed, it was gradually accepted that homosexuals do exist. There are now several states that allow same sex marriages.
With the opening of closet doors, why not open your wallets and celebrate your lifestyle? Many Gay Pride celebrations are on the horizon, and Damron Vacations can help plan your trip. NYC Pride is the end of June to coincide with the Stonewall Riots that ignited the gay right movement. If Pride celebrations is not on your list of must do's, how about the Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival? Great movies and great beaches in the tropics, what could be better? These are just two of the options at Damron Vacations, so pack up the suntan lotion, or your gay pride flags and get on the move.

Minications

Hey, if a Madison Avenue advertising company can create staycation, I can create minication. To me a minication is a short trip away from home. It can be for just a day, a weekend, or maybe a three day weekend.
Many people have no idea what attractions are in their area. Just last night I was watching the Travel Channel' Ghost Adventures, and they went to a house in Palm Beach, a 45 minute drive from my place. It was about a house that was formerly the caretaker's house at a cemetery, and has been moved to a village of historic structures. While still at the cemetery, a man hung himself in the attic and reputedly haunts the structure. There was unknown voices, boards being moved and items being knocked over. So will add the house to one of my weekend trips. Plus, if you have not watched the show, you should, one word - WOOF!! Zac the main guy is quite tasty, and the two other team members are nice too. Lots of the hosts on the Travel Channel are similar, the Mark & Olly series.
There are many more interesting sites in the area. There is the Bonnet House, the Stranahan House here in Ft Lauderdale. Also in Palm Beach County there is Whitehall, the Breakers Hotel and others. In Miami there is Vizcaya(home of the White Party), the Deering Estate, The Art Deco District to name a few.
While doing research for work, I found the Oheka Castle. It is about 20 blocks from where my family used to live on Long Island. It is the second largest home in the country, only to Biltmore in Asheville, NC. Built to resemble a French chateau, it has extensive gardens and is currently used as a hotel. Tours are still offered of the estate.
So if you want to get away even for a day, check out the local Convention & Visitor's Bureau, they will have a list of nearby attractions. Many are very reasonable, and some offer free admission days once a month. If you want to travel farther afield, log-on to Damron Vacations website and check out the deals. If you have any questions, contact one of the knowledgeable agents to help plan your vacation.

Memories......

One of the few things that can never be taken away from us by another person. Time my dim them, some diseases will make you live in them, but they are always yours. There are things from my early childhood I remember as if they happened yesterday. Memories of my mother are circa 1966 and a birthday party where she decorated cupcakes with colored coconut, ice cream was in individual cups with wooden paddles for spoons, and we played games like pin the tail on the donkey.
There were the trips into New York City to visit my maternal grandparents and the Museum of Natural History. The enormous blue whale is still vivid in my mind. The smell of Italian food cooking at my grandparent's apartment. My grandmother in her wheelchair, a harbinger of my own mom's fate. Summers were spent at Seaside Heights in a rented apartment or house, the nights spent on the boardwalk.
After the move to North Carolina, the vacations to Daytona Beach, my parent's favorite place to visit, the Blue Ridge Mountains. 1973, we were the Griswalds years before Chevy Chase and Company. Mom's Country Squire, yellow with wood siding, Charlotte to San Francisco, Painted Desert, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Death Valley(with broken A/C), Bristlecone pine trees, Yosemite. Then the loop through Tahoe, Grand Teton, Yellwstone and the Pacific Coast Highway. My first plane flight.
Senior year in high school was my first taste of international travel. Madrid and Seville with Mrs Cassale. College spring breaks at the beach and Bermuda for my senior year. Tips to Europe after graduation and cruises. Yes, I love to travel.
Along the way I have owned cars, a condo, watches, etc. Most of which are gone, lost or just worn out. But the memories of all those trips and many more will always be with me and are mine to keep. They include the sights and sounds of the destinations, but also the people I with who I traveled. Some are still good friends, some lost to the years. In a way they will always be with me, whether as a high school senior or as they are today.
There was a conference recently where Ryan Howell of San Francisco State University announced the findings of his latest research. Experiences provided more happiness than possessions. The glamor of a purchase might last for three months, but experiences provided happiness long after the actual event. The experiences provided more of a feeling of being alive, and involved social interaction and bonding. By the way, I have no idea what I got at that birthday party.
Let Damron Vacations help you create some memories to keep forever. Maybe a trip to Europe or teh Caribbean, or maybe a trip home to attend a reunion, remember living well is the best revenge. The knowledgeable agents can help make a trip you will remember for a long long time.

What is a Staycation?

Staycation, the new buzz word in travel. A staycation is when you do not travel for your vacation, you stay home. Sounds like a long weekend to me. Staying at home for vacation would result in lots of housework.
My last staycation was almost 5 years ago and I redid a bathroom. Yes, I did the work. I removed the vanity, sink, and toilet and replaced them with new. I also put up bead board panelling and trim to frame it and a nice long shelf along one wall. It was quite time consuming, though a neighbor lent me his table saw so the miter cuts was a breeze.
I know that staycations are the result of lack of funds, to be polite. Maybe the grand vacations of the past need to be put on hold until the economy rebounds, but there are lots of good travel deals out there. Instead of a two week stay in Paris, maybe a few days at the beach, or maybe a city you have never been too. With hotel occupancy falling faster than Bush's approval rating, rates are coming down almost as fast. Empty rooms generate no income, discounted rooms at least bring money in.n And if you are lucky enough to live in or near a cruise port, the fares are at the lowest in years.
So check out Damron Vacations for a vacation deal, and leave the staycations to to other people. And don't forget to bring your Damron Guide if visiting a new city. It is loaded with useful information

Live from the Jackie Gleason Theater in beautiful.....

Miami Beach. I remember the Jackie Gleason show when I was growing up. Little did I realize I would end up living 45 minutes away. One never knows the turns life will take.
Going to Miami Beach is a regular outing for my roommate and I. We drive down on a Saturday to have lunch on Lincoln Road and wander around. Years ago the City of Miami Beach created a pedestrian mall of approximately 9 blocks of Lincoln Road. Great idea. The various cycles of the economy and the surrounding neighborhood had led to ups and downs on the mall. Right now it is still doing well despite the economy.
Parking is easy at the city owned convention center lot, which is only 1/2 block away. Just remember to take your ticket and not leave it in the car. Drivers without a ticket have to produce a drivers license and the information gets recorded. This has cut down on car thefts. And the city lot is the least expensive in the area.
The variety of restaurants is only rivaled by the various nationalities of the visitors. All the restaurants have menus posted which makes selecting easier. Nexxt is our favorite, lots of food for the price. They have the largest outside eating area by far. And with the network of umbrellas and plastic channels, downpours, while numerous in the summer, are under control. After lunch a leisurely stroll past the shops is a good way to burn off the calories. One usual stop is the Ghiredlli shop, free samples, yum. There is a William Sonoma, a Pottery Barn and a long list of clothing stores.
Right about in the middle is Score, the only gay bar on Lincoln Road. I was in it years ago when it was the Kremlin in the mid 90s. That was when it was a slow time in the area. I remember walking down a fairly deserted Lincoln Road to get there. Now it always has a group of guys having a few adult beverages and watching the parade of people.
As you eat, drink or stroll, there is a varied assortment of languages heard. The predominant is Spanish, though Italian, French and German are also common. And lately, Eastern European languages are started to be heard. This is due to Miami International is a non-stop from most European and South American capital cities.
With the varied languages, the beautiful people and the abundance of sidewalk cafes, Lincoln Road is very cosmopolitan and more European than American. Easiest way to leave the country with out a passport, and it is LEGAL!!
At the eastern end of Lincoln Road is the sand of South Beach. Known the world over for young beautiful tanned bodies. The old Art Deco hotels that line Ocean Drive are as vibrant as in their heyday. Gloria Estafan owns the Cardoza, maybe a celebrity sighting? The movie The Birdcage was filmed nearby.
Though South Beach is not as gay as it used to be, it is still a great place to escape winter's hold. I think it is in the minus degrees in Chicago today. With the Winter Party right around the corner and the South Beach Food & Wine Festival, now is the time to contact Damron Vacations to plan your tropical escape. Great food, good drinks, tan lines, and warm tropical waters are just a few of the attractions in Miami beach. Do not forget your Damron Guide to find the perfect bar to make your own memories.

Your next port of call is......

Traveling on the high seas. This was the only way to cross the ocean in ease until the arrival of jet airliners around 1960. In their heyday, the ocean liners ruled the oceans. Each country had its own line and battled for the fastest crossing. Famed ships include the Normandie, United States, both Queen Elizabeths, Norway(formerly the France), and the Andrea Doria, to name a few. These were built with reinforced hulls to tackle the rough North Atlantic. There were various classes and one did not mingle with those of a higher rank. The only remaining true liners are the Cunard Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria. The Queen Elizabeth 2 is on her way to become a floating hotel in Dubai, much like her predecessor the Queen Mary. The United States is rusting away at a Philadelphia dock, the rest have met their fate with disaster or the scrap yard.
Today's ocean travel is accomplished mostly by cruise ships, which ply more tranquil waters such as the Mediterranean, the Caribbean or the South Pacific. These ships are geared more for fun, relaxation, and sightseeing. They come complete with rock walls, bowling alleys, lawns, theaters, and casinos to name a few amenities.
There are a few companies that charter the complete liner for a gay cruise experience. All the shows and activities cater to the tastes of those passengers. Most will cruise the popular routes, Northern Europe, ancient wonders of the Mediterranean, the Caribbean or Rio de Janeiro for Carnival to name a few.
Truthfully, I have never been on such a cruise. I have sailed on Celebrity three times, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Western Mediterranean and the last was the Caribbean. I like to describe the Celebrity line as going to sea in a country club. Very tasteful and subdued decor. The clientele tends to be older and the number of children is usually very low. Makes for a quiet time around the pool.
On a cruise there is a list of daily activities that is published, well daily. On the Celebrity Cruise Line, at 7:30 there is a meeting listed as Friends of Dorothy, it is usually near the meeting of Friends of Bill W. Is this coincidence? Friends of Dorothy refers to the Wizard of Oz, Somewhere over the Rainbow, get the connection? on the Constellation this past December and the Galaxy the year before, the meeting was in the new Martini Lounge on each ship. What a combination, gay men and martinis, is there ever a better match?
A section has chairs pulled together and a small Reserved sign is there to hold the seats. The group varies from cruise to cruise, but usually at least a dozen or so. On the Galaxy, I think we numbered over 30. You get to meet people from around the country or even the world. Some friends continue after the cruise, some do not. But it is nice to have people to do excursions with.
So if a cruise is one of your favorite types of vacation, or perhaps you have always thought about one, contact Damron Vacations, and get connected to our cruise desk. The agents there can arrange your cruise on any of the major lines, along with flights and extra hotel nights if needed. Don't forget your Damron Guide, to find stores, bars, or sights that might not be listed in most guide books.

The Conch Republic

At the far southern end of US 1 is the small town of Key West. First discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513, Key West has had a varied and colorful history. It was fairly deserted until just after the Revolutionary War, when Spain gave it to Juan Pablo Salas, who in turn sold it to American business man John Simonton. After promoting the island to the Navy as a possible base, it became a point of entry to the United States.
With a small population of 'wrecker's', kind of a local pirate, a bit of lawlessness prevailed. These people would lure ships onto the reefs, then claim the cargo. With the legal salvaging of wrecks, the population was one of the wealthiest per capita in the country. Other industries that grew included: sponging, turtle harvesting, and cigar rolling.
In the 1920s, Prohibition gripped the country and more illegal activity helped Key West Thrive, bootlegging. Rum and beer from Cuba and other spirits from the Bahamas. In the 60's it was marijuana. Seem like many people made money in not so legal ways there.
But now for the present. Key West is an easy, if not speedy, way drive from the mainland. The roadway, trestles and bridges make a scenic drive, especially the southern half. Though once there, a car is basically not needed. If driving is not for you, the major lines offer flights directly to the island.
Once in Key West, your options are numerous, from large resorts with spa facilities, to B&Bs in restored cottages. There are plenty of male/female only and clothing optional is quite common. Most of which provide a nice continental breakfast, and some have afternoon Happy Hour. What more can you want, no searching for breakfast, and free drinks? Prices can accommodate a vast array of budgets. As I have gotten older, I prefer the larger resort hotels, favorite being the Hyatt on Front Street. It is convenient to Duval and the waterfront, but secluded at the end of the street.
With the arrival of cruise ships, commercialization has taken over the north end of Duval. While watching the sunset from Mallory Square is still popular, it has a more 'Disneyesque' feel to it than in the past. So head south to experience more of why you headed there.
There are still many of the old favorites drawing in the boys and girls. La te da still has shows and serves food. The patio is a great place to watch people pass. Bourbon Street and the 801 are busy from open til close. One of the more interesting bars is the Green Parrot. Is it gay? straight? whatever? What ever it is, it is still a great place to enjoy Key West as it used to be, laid back and relaxed.
There are the tourist favorites like Hog's Breath and Sloppy Joe's, but they are usually full of people off the cruise ships and can be kind of on the loud side.
Key West has great places to eat. I tend to stay away from the large chains at the north end. A Planet Hollywood is a Planet Hollywood, no matter what town it is in. 7 Fish on the corner of Elizabeth and Olivia is my favorite. The food is great, service superb, feeling is eclectic chic, and dinner will not send you to the poor house. Try the Yellowtail Snapper in Yellow Curry, to die for!! Other favorites are Blue Heaven(named after a type of chicken), Pepe's(oldest restaurant in the Keys) and the Raw Bar at the Turtle Kraals.
If a beach is your destination, hate to tell you, but Key West is not really the place for you. Most of the island is coral and the largest, Smather's is sand from the Bahamas. So if beaching it is what you want, choose Miami or Ft Lauderdale with their miles of powdery sand. If quaint, fairly gay, and lots of fun, Key West is a great place to relax, unwind, and get an all over tan at the pool at your gay guest house. So if this sounds like an experience you would enjoy, call Damron Vacations and speak to one of the experienced agents, and plan you escape to the Conch Republic.

Oo la la in Gay Paris!!!

Springtime in Paris, what a wonderful time to be in such a lovely city. With its wide boulevards lined with sycamores, quaint side streets with hidden gardens, and large parks, the city is alive with greenery and flowers. The city itself is arranged in districts, spiraling out from the center of town, with the higher numbers on the outskirts and along walk or Metro ride back to the center of things.
The sites to visit are vast in number and diverse to, from the Crypts of Notre Dame, to the French Impressionists at the Musee d'Orsay, to the incomparable Mona Lisa(is it really Leonardo in drag) and other masterpieces in the Louvre, to the indescribable view from the Eiffel Tower. Plus there is a myriad of smaller museums, galleries and monuments scattered around the city.
One thing to keep in mind is not to hurry from one place to another. Parisians to not run, but stroll, and enjoy the architecture from the Beaux Arts and Art Nouveau periods of Paris's building heyday. If going a long distance, the Metro is well laid out and easy to use. Metro passes are a good investment, they provide a specific number of consecutive days of Metro travel. Also available in the Metro Stations are visite passes. These also are for a specific number of days and provide access to the major sites. The best benefit is line jumping, with the pass you head to a separate line to enter which is usually 1/10 the length of normal admission line. Thre important exclusions from the visite pass are the Opera Garnier, Notre Dame's Towers and the Eiffel Tower, more on them later.
Starting with the Ile de la Cite, Notre Dame's imposing Gothic architecture is amazing. Begun in the 12th Century, building took almost 170 years to complete. One of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture with soaring arches and flying buttresses, it endures today. The climb up the north tower is made easier with an elevator( the reason for no line jumping) and the view is breathtaking. A farther climb up the south tower is accomplished through a narrow stair, so if claustrophobic, skip this part. The famous gargoyles are visible from the first gallery.
What card carrying gay man does not know at least one song from Phantom of the Opera? The Opera Garnier is the location for this production, and it is actually built over a small lake. The large chandelier is still suspended under a dome that was redone by Marc Chagall. The grand staircase with its various colors of marble hearken back to a bygone age of regally dressed men and women attending the performance.
The most noticeable landmark is the Eiffel Tower. Rising up along the left bank of the Seine, it was originally supposed to be dismantled after the World Exposition. Even with protests from many of Paris's more enlightened populace, the tower was allowed to stay. The ride to the top is accomplished by two elevator rides. At the first level is a post office so, drop you postcards there for an Eiffel Tower postmark. The view is spectacular during the day or after sunset with the city ablaze in lights below.
For a gay old time in Paris, head to the Marais. The former Jewish ghetto just east of the Louvre. The area is full of restaurants, cafes and bars. One aspect of Parisian bars, you can buy a bottle of liquor that they will serve you on subsequent visits, much better buy then nightly drinks. Check out the Damron Guide for the latest listings.
For souvenirs the selection is vast. There are quint local shops or the major stores like Printemps or Galleries Lafayette, along with teh major Paris fashiopn houses. Just remember some food products are NOT importable. Wine is allowed, but meats and cheeses are strictly forbidden. I recommend bringing a packing tube with you. Between the Seine and the Louvre, street vendors set up stand and you can purchase a watercolor of Paris actually painted by a Parisian, the packing tube ensures it will get home safe.
So if Springtime in Paris is the vacation you and you partner have always desired, now is a good time to go. With travel down and the dollar gaining strength against the euro, bargains are plentiful. Check out Damron Vacations to the best advice and experience in planning your trip. The knowledgeable staff will help with all the details.

The Eternal City

Rome, the ancient city that is still alive. Founded approximately 2,700 years ago on seven hills along the banks of the Tiber River along Italy's central western coast. The Roman Empire slowly grew to encompass most of the known world until it was sacked in the mid- fifth century.
Having already been the seat of the Catholic Church, the Popes continued to reside there even after the Great Schism which established both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Church. Th papacy kept Rome from total obscurity during the Dark Ages. The Renaissance began in Florence and quickly spread to Rome. Many spectacular churches, palaces, monuments, etc still hold prominence on the cityscape.
My favorite building is the Pantheon. Built around the year 250, it stand a testament to Rome's engineering ability. The inside is the same height, width and depth. The soaring dome with its oculist is a single piece of concrete that was pour in one continuous job. The base of the dome is thicker and as it reaches it summit, the walls thin and lighter aggregate is used. The coffers also decrease its weight as it climbs. There is also a drainage system in the floor for rainwater.
The Vatican's St. Peter's Cathedral is breath taking. The soaring apse, with the Bernini designed Baldacchino, and the Michelangelo designed dome along with the artwork is phenomenal. The colonnade surrounding the square's symmetry and adornment attest to the skills if the craftsmen.
Walking through the Forum to the Coliseum brings you back to the time of the Caesars. When people's fates were decided by wild animals. Though in ruins, the form still possesses a certain majesty and awe. Though stripped of its marble exterior, it was used for later works, the Coliseum still impresses. With its planned entrance and exits to the layers of seating based on social status, is unsurpassed today, the fact that gravity is the only thing holding it together for centuries is no small feat.
There is an active gay scene in modern day Rome. Most of it is towards the main train station. Check out Damron Vacations to get you to this mesmerizing city and the Damron Guide once you are there.

Back to the drawing board.....

After holding the cruise yesterday, I discussed it with my roommate, and we decided that it is still a bit too much. After adding the cost of shore excursion, it would push the total over $8K and probably close to $8.5K. So time to check out other options.
Damron Vacations offer all the major lines, so tonight will be a night of research on the web. Both Princess and Celebrity offer South America, so there is lots to choose. I was also considering a repositioning cruise. Fly over to Europe and then take the ship back to Fort Lauderdale. Those are usually a good deal since days at sea equates to no port charges. Will have to check out the options.
While I am there, will also check out some quick get a ways for the Spring. Damron Vacations is adding properties to its vast supplier base already in place. I really do like heading to the Keys for a weekend. The drive is spectacular. This is the view from the Bahia Honda Bridge. It was part of Henry Flagler's railroad to Key West. After the devastating hurricane, it was topped with a roadway for vehicular traffic, and ws later replaced with a new span. Looks very tropical, huh? So now you have an idea of why I like the drive.

First Step Taken.....

Well, I have held the cruise from Rio to B.A. We have one week to put down a deposit and hold the price with all the promotional items included. The current price is approximately $3000 less than the same cruise last year. It is amazing how many good deals are out there. So, I guess the running needs to be stepped up and maybe some weight lifting too. Spandex is not a very forgiving fabric.
The nice thing about cruises is that a deposit is all that is needed to hold it until approximately 75-90 days before sailing. This enables payments along the way and it is all refundable until that final date too. Which makes for a nice comfort level if something was to change. And until that final payment name changes are easy, just in case the love of your life changes.
Now with the BIG vacation taken care of, the small ones are all that need to be planned. A few weekend hops to Key West or Orlando, maybe a family visit to NC or TN, and I havee some dear friends in NJ/PA area that I would like to see again, since it has been WAY too long. With Damron Vacations helping with the flights and accommodations, all I'll need is my Damron Guide to find the best places to go when I'm there.

Already Planning......

Even with just returning from an 11 night cruise of the Caribbean, plans are in the works for this years trip. The first cruise that was investigated was from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aries. But after adding on all the extras, it would have been around the $10K mark which was WAY out of budget.
With the slowdown in the economy, cruise lines are starting to offer early booking specials that are pretty phenomenal. The cruise in question has a 2-4-1 offer, free airfare, per cabin discounts and on board credits. This may bring the price down enough to make it possible. Such a cruise would be nice since I do have a fondness for Latin men. Plus I have a friend that grew up in the Recoleta in BA and I will get to see him.
So, as a result, I have started an exercise routine. I have started running again. Over the past several years, I have slowly accumulated a belly, and while it is easy to hide while dressed, it will not work walking down Ipanema Beach in Rio. Belly+Spandex= NO!!! The cruise is not until December which gives me quite awhile to work on the project. There is a small men's store nearby that is closing due to lease issues, so I purchased a suit for 75% off, thankfully I don't have to loose that much, but it is an inspiration for the weight loss.
In addition to the possible cruise, the birthday that will happen in one year is the other inspiration for getting back in shape. With the body conscious attitude of the gay world, being older is bad, being heavy is definitely out, so combine the two and DOUBLE whammy. I know I will not look like a 2xist underwear model, that is only for the under 25 set. I just want to be able to wear a clingy shirt because that is the style, not because I need a larger size.
When I get a break later, I will contact my Damron Vacation agent I use and get some prices on the cruise. Along with their knowledge and the Damron Guide's over 40 years of experience, this could be the best vacation ever.

First week back to work

Yes, the holiday season is over. Today is the Monday on the first full week of work since mid December. No official work holiday until May 25th, Memorial Day, sigh.
With this past Saturday and Sunday being the first weekend of January, the Las Olas Art Fair was held. The are show takes place in downtown on Las Olas Boulevard, which is the local version of Rodeo Drive. The street is closed to traffic and vendors set up booths for about 6 blocks. The various artists display their work from custom jewelry to large lawn sculptures to bucolic landscapes to abstract murals. The weather over the weekend was fantastic and the street and sidewalks were packed. In fact, a little too crowded. There was a fairly large proportion of family memebers in attendance. Probably since this was a reputable show, and did not have puppets made from a sock type merchandise. The next one will be in March, hopefully it will not be as crowded.
The crowds in the bars will start to decrease now that the holidays are over. The out of towners are back at their jobs like the rest of us. There will still be a number of snowbirds that are escaping winter in their home cities.
The next big event is the Foodnetwork Food&Wine Festival in Mid February. All of the Foodnetwork' hosts and personalities will be attending. There will be cooking demonstrations with personal interaction with your favorites. Various vintners will also hold food/wine pairings. Good food, good wine, and some tasty chefs, what more could a gay man want?
The next weekend is the Winter Party in Miami. Basically a springtime version of the White Party 6 weeks ago held at Vizcaya. Though the Winter Party focusses more of its attention to the beach, with events on the beach, around pools, rooftop decks, and of course the local clubs.
So if any of these events sound good, why not check out Damron Vacations for flights lodging and a car? The agents are very familiar with the are and can direct you to a hotel that suits your needs. And with Damron Guide's over 40 years of information, a great get away is just a phone call away.

Starting over.....

It seems that with the arrival of the new year, lots of self improvement is in store. Less alcohol, fewer cigarettes, more exercise, loosing weight. So lets get out there and look like we have always wanted to. Flat stomachs(or at least small), larger arms and better lung capacity.
Once that GQ body has been achieved, the need to show it off has arrived. With the Circuit Parties starting over(but do they ever stop?), why not plan on the White Party in Palm Springs, or the one in Miami? That one give more time to get in shape. Damron Vacations has an experienced Group Department, that can help get you and your friends to the party of your choice. By using the group department, you get a seamless vacation package from take off to your return. The biggest benefit is that your hotel rooms will be close to each to each other. Nothing worse that when you friend are three foors below and at other end of hotel.
So keep to that new regime, and strive to get that 6 pack out of the fridge and on your stomach. Look through Internation Male and find those perfect dance outfits and swim suits for laying by the pool in South Beach. And call Damron Vacations for the trip of a lifetime.

Sigh........

2008 officially comes to an end tonight. Overall it was a good year. I returned to a work environment that is encouraging and has great possibilities for success. I traveled to Orlando several times(though not for Gay Days), popped down to Key West for the 4th of July, and then the big cruise around the Caribbean the beginning of December. Though with the passing of 2008, I am closer to the big 5-0
Living in Ft Lauderdale has great weekend trip options. Key West is just a short hop down US 1. Even though it is not quite as gay as it was in years past(all those cruise passengers), it still has some great bars and hidden dining gems. Plus it is always fun walking around Fast Buck Freddie's and reading the innuendos on the tee shirts. This being New Year's Eve, the drag queen Sushi will be lowered in a red high heel at midnight in front of the Bourbon Street Pub. I saw the spectacle years ago and it is quite the street party. At the north end of Duval, a conch shell is lowered at Sloppy Joe's, isn't that creative.
Since not everyone can live where weekend trips are easy, more planning is involved. Damron Vacations can help in all aspects of your travel plans. In Key West, we offer accommodations from the Heron House, a collection of conch style cottages nestled around a pool filled courtyard, to the Hyatt Key West Resort & Spa, one of my favorites, and all levels in between. With their expertise, the agents can obtain the best within your budget. BTW, you really do not need a rental car in Key West. Everywhere you park there will be a charge, that is if you can find a space. Pack your Damron Guide, and finding the perfect store, to get that special gift will be a snap. Plus finding the best place for a drink and people watching will be at your fingertips.
Hope you get to experience the Sushi Drop and the knowledgeable agents at Damron Vacations.