Dolls

Anniversary Generations Dreams

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Etnies Paris exhibit features skateable living room

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LAKE FOREST - For Pierre-Andre Senizergues, owner of Etnies, a quarter-century of success means looking toward the future.As part of the company's 25 year anniversary, the action-sports manufacturer is taking...
If you've had a wedding, but it wasn't the one you dreamed of, is it ok to have a celebration a year later?

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I married a guy that I adore and we have a wonderful marriage, but I regret that my mom didn't get to host the wedding in our native country. I feel I cheated her out of her proudest moment and cheated myself from being surrounded by family and friends, wishing us well and blessing our union. I also feel a little jealous that at the reception in his country, his family from many generations and branches were there to meet us and congratulate us. Would it be wrong to have a huge party in my home country on our anniversary? Would it make it up to my mom? Would I stop feeling sad that I was all alone on my bachelorette party and on my wedding day? Or should I accept what I have sown?

You can have a "renewal of vows" ceremony, which can be as fancy as a wedding (and include all the traditions that are important to you), but you can't call it a "wedding" because you're already married.

New Generation Baddis Anniversary

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Ohio Amish Country: A Bed and Breakfast Experience that Generates Contentment

We all wish to attain moments of peace, patience, love, trust, certainty, exuberance, acceptance, joy, achievement, and would be happy to remove the stress and anxiety of everyday living. Stress has a life cycle. It is triggered, it festers, lives, then dies, and new attitudes replace it.

No matter how successful we are at work, any satisfaction gained from our achievement is enormously diminished unless we are in a peaceful state of mind.

The quality of life in our society is based on the attainment of sustainable contentment for all times and under all circumstances. Basically, sustainable contentment is dependent on the acquisition of attitudes and paradigms that limit the excesses of negative behavior and thinking. This standard ensures a climate of happiness and productivity; and permits us to express integrity and love.

When one explores the ramifications of living a life filled with stress and anxiety, one will conclude that bold steps are needed if we want to protect our health and well-being. Choosing to take a break from our busy lives can be a challenging decision, but one that is worthwhile. Let us look at the foundation of our life: Where are we now? Where are we going? What is our role in the world? Who are we? What do we know with certainty? Taking a break allows us to find clarity and answers. We may discover: How we can succeed; how we can live a life of goodness; how we can improve our relationships; how we can contribute to society; and how we should interrelate with others.

Most of us would agree that the mind leaves us with little or no control when we are swept up by stressful emotions. It is important to address our anxiety because if we don't, it might make our relationships unhealthy and unsatisfying.

One of the primary errors that potential travelers make is to take for granted some of the lesser-known, small town destinations. Due to the immensity and complexity of large cities, sometimes it is more advantageous to visit a quieter locale. In this slower-paced environment, travelers find it easier to foster solace and inner peace.

If we are to cultivate contentment, it involves the necessity to change our thinking and perceptions so new attitudes will emerge.

If you wish to attain contentment within yourself, with your family, your work and your surroundings, then consider taking a getaway to Danville, Ohio, in the Amish Country. It is a neat little place that makes full use of nature's beauty. Imagine visiting a rural place near an historic village – that is relaxing and joyful to visit. Local inhabitants traverse the roads in horses and buggies. Once we perceive it, we can achieve it. This is the elemental principle behind the power of positive thinking.

Yvonne Martin, Innkeeper of The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio told me: "We had a young man in his early thirties who wanted to stay with us. His wife had died a few months earlier. Our inn was the last place they had stayed together. At first he was very quiet. He read, wandered the property, and enjoyed the outdoors a lot. We allowed him to talk. We let him talk about his life. He went out for long walks. This rejuvenated him. He became happy again, and was ready to go and face the family without her."

Taking a getaway to Ohio Amish Country certainly provides an enticing opportunity to renew, rejuvenate and refresh. For people suffering with stress, this area will contribute to the healing of mind, body and spirit. For travelers who savor dipping into a destination that makes them feel at peace, this journey will be valued. Amish Country is a place that takes the visitor to unexplored crossroads. The area is filled with fresh and surprising opportunities that will certainly resonate for weeks and months after travelers come home.

Escaping our stressful routine and staying at a charming bed and breakfast inn can be simple and fun. The time away allows us to excavate down to our deeper selves. However, we can only derive maximum benefit if we are willing and determined to focus on renewing, recharging and rejuvenating. The destination beckons us to look through a different set of lenses - that leads to a more satisfying life.

Yvonne of The White Oak Inn shared with us, "We have a couple that stays with us very frequently. The husband has a fatal illness. The wife brings him here because we make him laugh, and there is little of that elsewhere." She continues, "We treat him like other guests and he is getting a respite. We don't treat him with pity; he can be normal here. He loves to come and rest. They go shopping. They are trying to cram thirty five years of experience into one year."

After a few days in Amish Country, one's affection for the place gradually blossoms. After trying out some of the restaurants, you can hear the patrons sigh, as if they have just experienced a TV cooking show in their imagination.

It takes a bit of imagination to go on a unique adventure. And what makes us willing participants is our ability to put all the right elements in place. Staying at a bed and breakfast inn makes things easy. A talented innkeeper can seamlessly interweave an itinerary that contains all the right components; so we can enjoy both the destination, and the journey itself. Never turn down help from an innkeeper - thank them and accept their suggestions; everyone could use a friend who is familiar with the region.

Yvonne of The White Oak Inn remarks, "We have guests who are busy doctors in major cities. They want to be in a pretty, peaceful, quiet place, away from phone, and the whole medical experience. They just rest and enjoy the quiet." Continues Yvonne,  "Another couple has been having chemo therapy. Every time she finishes a bout of arduous treatment, her husband brings her to the inn. They just spend time alone together. We deliver dinner baskets to them. Our inn is relaxing and all the stress they are experiencing goes away. We have massage therapists that come in and they both get massages and pampering."

There are numerous ways visitors can appreciate the region. Walkers, hikers, rollerbladers, and bikers can enjoy The Kokosing Gap Trail that runs from Danville to Mount Vernon, and is very scenic. The Mohican Valley Trail, which runs from Danville to Holmes County features a 370 foot long "Bridge of Dreams" over the Mohican River. There is a Hiawatha Water Park in Mount Vernon open in summer. In the winter, the Snow Trails ski area, about 20 minutes away from Danville, offers snow activities. The Mohican-Memorial State Forest is a 4,498-acre park that offers hiking, horseback riding and camping. There is canoeing, kayaking, zip lining, golfing and wildlife viewing nearby. Ice cream factory tours, museums, wine tasting, farmers' markets, fairs, pottery shops, entertainment, music & arts festivals, pow-wow's, shows, demonstrations and rides are available seasonally.

Holmes County is home to the gentle Amish - a people with humongous hearts who love unconditionally. They are a people with very little in the way of worldly possessions, but are happy, peaceful and kind internally. Everything they produce is made by hand and from scratch. Foods are fresh from the farm. Some of their specialties include shoe-fly pie, maple brown sugar molasses pie, doughnuts, and woopie pie (shaped like an ice cream sandwich.) The Amish make their own candy, and pretzels. They don't want to promote anything in life that has a negative impact. They run their factories on steam using belts and pulleys. They are known for their handmade quilts, fine wood products, cheeses and baked goods.

FEATURED PROPERTY: It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio are easy on the eyes, and a relaxing atmosphere is evident throughout the inn. More importantly, the service is considered warm, welcoming, and impeccable, overall. Prior to arriving, guests typically receive an email from the inn asking if they have any special requests or needs. They are happy to accommodate special dietary requests, such as for vegetarian, low-fat, or low-sugar meals.

Upon arrival, the innkeepers, Ian or Yvonne Martin, escort their visitors into the common area. Hosts familiarize guests with the property, the history and make them feel welcome with a tour. Hosts explain the breakfast routine, other particulars and activities available in the area, before escorting guests to their rooms.  Ian and Yvonne are known to be nothing but smiles. The next day they will most likely remember every guest's name.

The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity - just gaze at the beautiful blooming gardens situated around the property. It is a place where you can spend relaxing times with good friends.

SUMMARY: The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio is a prime property nestled amongst Amish Farms. You can hear the geese calling in the distance. Some rooms have a fireplace, separate sitting area, and large Jacuzzi tub. In addition to regular rooms, guests can stay at a Guest House, or Log Cabin Cottage, away from the main inn, which gives visitors a sense of privacy, space and romance. The inn features sumptuous dining including a fantastic three course breakfast. This along with great service makes for a delightful B & B experience.

ROOMS: In addition to the spacious comfort, the rooms are immaculately clean, decorated with tasteful decor and furniture. Porches offer superb views of the property and mesmerizing vistas overlooking Amish and Mennonite Farms; trees, star-filled nights and sunsets. Some rooms have private entrances. Rooms come equipped with free WiFi, cable TV and DVD player.

All during your stay you can partake of complimentary tea, and beverages. Upon request rooms come with a lovely bouquet of flowers and gold wrapped chocolates.

Local and custom artwork and handicrafts are evident throughout the rooms, which provide a glimpse into local and regional culture.

SERVICE: Great service with a warm smile. The innkeepers are well known for their genuine hospitality. The hosts are knowledgeable and provide efficient service to all of their guests.

AMENITIES: Known for an exceptional, and hearty three-course breakfast, Decadent Nutella and white chocolate French toast, and baked turkey & apple sausage, are some of the items served. The owners collect Amish furnishings and quilts that are interspersed around the property. The house dates from the early 1900's. The parlor is the ideal reading room for visitors.  It is a peaceful room with a variety of different books. The property has relaxing porches, one with a glider rocker that overlooks the river valley. From the porch guests can gaze at Amish buggies trotting by. People like to read on the porch. Upon request, the innkeeper can provide refreshments. 24 hours a day, Hot tea, iced tea and baked goods are served in the in the common room.

LOCATION: The location is flawless for those who want to get away and feel removed from everyday anxiety and stress, yet close to town to enjoy shopping, restaurants, wineries, and Amish culture. The inn provides an incomparable sense of well-being. Shopping is a few miles away, as are some of the well-established galleries. Jewelry, quilts, Amish products, antiques and paintings are available in town.

CLEANLINESS: The inn is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The gardens with natural plantings throughout are attractive. The beds and herb gardens on the property are well maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides excellent value with a sense of town & country elegance, comfort and warmth. The rooms are designed to make guests feel relaxed, and cozy. The personal attention makes the difference.  The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The innkeepers are helpful without being intrusive. ~~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

 

About the Author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a freelance writer, keynote guest speaker, and author of two books about finding and cultivating contentment. "Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment" (Reviews 4.5 Stars, Look Inside) is available on Amazon. C.J. Good speaks and consults on a variety of subjects ranging from marketing, to technology, to relationship building. C.J. Good also gives keynotes on travel topics, health issues, and the generation x/y marketplace. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader's lives. C.J. Good was a marketing executive in the travel industry for 17 years; and a successful business development expert. ~~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

 

CONTACT: The White Oak Inn Bed and Breakfast, Ian and Yvonne Martin, Innkeepers, 29683 Walhonding Road (State Route 715), Danville, Ohio (OH) 43014. Local Telephone: 740-599-6107 | Toll Free: 1-877-908-5923, www.whiteoakinn.com