This month I'll be sharing guest posts from fellow travelers featuring their "bucket list travel" story.  Today's post comes from Staci with Foodies On The Fly.  And with her trapeze story, she was quite literally a foodie on the fly!  She starts off with her bucket list, or "manifesto," that inspired her to conquer her fear of heights by taking a flying trapeze class.

Enjoy, be inspired, and have an awesome weekend!

-Rachelle

Foodies on the Fly

2009 2010 2011 Manifesto

Usher kindness

Spend money on experiences not possessions

Spend more time with loved ones

Stress less

Conquer your fears

“Do” instead of “watch”

Try anything… twice

Each year instead of creating a mere list of resolutions, I create my very own manifesto. Since my manifesto contains aspirations for a more complete life most items remain and new ones are just added year after year.

One mainstay on the list is “Conquer your fears” and “Do” instead of “Watch”. Well, this weekend I did just that with a little help from my supportive BF. I have had a fear of heights and been challenging myself to test my boundaries and try new experiences to lessen this fear.  I’ve gone skiing (the chairlift was a particular source of unease for me), flown in an open cockpit bi-plane, and taken up aerial yoga. Saturday, I did something I’ve always thought incredible, and never imagined I would ever have an opportunity (or desire!) to do: I took flying trapeze lessons.

The Flying Trapeze School in Bayfront Park, Miami offers an all abilities 2-hour class that teaches you basics: the knee hang, hanging upside down by your knees from the fly bar, back flip somersault dismount into the net, and if you are ready, an attempted catch with one of their certified instructors at the end of the class.

As excited as I was to learn to swing, I was engulfed by an ocean of fear at, of all things, climbing up the ladder to the platform. My heart racing and irrational thoughts whizzing through my mind I almost admitted defeat before I was even 10 feet off the ground. (NOTE: The FTS is very safety oriented and you are strapped into a decidedly un-chic, but necessary harness the entire time.) Glancing over at my BF who gave me an encouraging smile, my stubbornness alone got me up the ladder to the platform. On the platform I was met with another flood of menacing thoughts; What if I slip off the platform? Is it possible to bounce off the net? What happens if I immediately lose grip of the fly bar? Are those carabineers locked in tight?  Does this harness make me look too “hippy”? I hope he gets a good photo.

Back to reality… Chalked hands – check. Bent knees – check. Hips forward – check. Gripped fly bar – check. Ok. Jump! Wait.  Ok… Jump! – check!!!! Wow, I’m flying! Or, soaring? Or… whatever, but I’m doing it! I did not let go of the bar, and am on the trapeze just like those Cirque du Soleil performers, only with MUCH less makeup and sparkly spandex. Now what was I supposed to do again? Listen. Yes. Listen to the instructor. Ok, legs up! Now I bend my knees, lean backwards and hook my knees over the bar (theoretically). I missed it the first time. I was confused that “legs up” meant knees up and over the bar, but (spoiler alert) I got it my second try once I understood what the command meant. After your legs go over and your knees grip the fly bar (make sure it’s r-e-a-l-l-y tight!) you drop your hands, arch your back and swing backwards stretching your hands out to an imaginary partner. The next move involves a complete reverse, where you return your hands to grip the bar, unfold your legs and return to hanging position. Finally the swing is completed with a somersault. To achieve this best you kick forward-backward-forward in one position, drop the bar, grip your knees and tumble onto the mat.

After roughly 6 turns practicing these moves you graduate onto attempting a catch. How it works: The catcher grabs the flier after they grip the fly bar with their knees and swing backwards. Unfortunately for this flier, it was not meant to be. I grasped fingertips with the catcher and ended up remaining on my fly bar and somersaulting to the net. My ever-so-talented BF, looking able to run away and join the circus tomorrow, completed 2 perfect catches. I’m so proud!

Overall, it was an exciting, heart-pounding, fear-obliterating day for the both of us. (Seems BF had a secret fear of heights too!) If you are looking for an excellent way to conquer your fears, bond with a loved one, or step outside of your comfort zone and off a platform, the flying trapeze is an excellent option. We’ll be back and maybe we’ll see you there.

The Flying Trapeze School
Bayfront Park
301 North Biscayne Blvd
Miami, Florida 33132
www.theflyingtrapeze.net
786.239.8775

More about Staci ...

Socially hungry for food and fashion, Foodies on the Fly was created to feed our need for trendy events, fashion, and culinary finds. Through this blog our team of writers will divulge their opinions on what to eat, where to eat it, and what to wear while dining out. So, whether you’re looking for the dress of the moment, the newest restaurant, or a fabulous event, Foodies on the Fly is your one stop resource for all things culinary and couture.

Twitter: @foodiesonthefly

Blog: http://foodiesonthefly.wordpress.com/

It's taken me awhile to get the first post up this month.  Partially because I've been on the road and also because this month's theme is Bucket Lists and I realized my own list could go on for infinity!  Every time I sat down to write during the brief quiet moments I could squeeze out of my schedule, I thought of even more adventures and experiences to add.  While I'm inspired by the possibility of future adventures, I also feel a warm sense of gratitude for all the things I've already done.  It's a never ending project that includes a little planning as well as room for spontaneity to welcome opportunities as they come.

Bucket lists are one of my favorite subjects to discuss.  I find it uplifting to watch an enthusiastic spark light up in someone's eye when they talk about their goals.  Ever since the movie was released in 2007, bucket lists have become a cultural credo.  As the world was effected by failing economies and natural disasters, it became a wake up call for individuals to take action in the moment and not wait until "someday" to make daring leaps.  More often then not, these lists did not include material things, but instead were focused on life experiences such as an exhilarating adventure to be had, a fear to be concurred, learning something new, and nurturing personal relationships.

So, just to get things started, I've included an abbreviated version of my list at the end of the post.   In addition, I'm really excited to share with you some inspiring stories throughout month from other travel bloggers that have crossed off a few experiences on their bucket list.  Everything from hiking Mont Blanc, taking a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, and one that even faced her fear of heights and participated in a flying trapeze lessons.

Tell me, what does YOUR bucket list include?  Seeing the great pyramids?  Going on safari in Africa?  Whether it's as simple as finding joy in your daily life ... or as elaborate as getting your picture in front of all 7 wonders of the world ... share with me your bucket list ideas below in the comments.

By recording your dreams and goals on paper, you set in motion the process

of becoming the person you most want to be.

- Mark Victor Hansen

Items on my bucket list that I've COMPLETED ...

FOOD

Drink Kopi Luwak coffee (yes, that's monkey butt coffee)

Taste Absinthe

Learn and appreciate the complexity of wine

Eat something daring (crickets) (lamb fries) (monk fish liver) (frog legs)

TRAVEL

Take in the view from the top of the Eiffel Tower

Get lost in the streets of Rome

Smile back at the Mona Lisa in person

Sleep in a rain forest (Costa Rica)

Drive through Napa Valley

Catch a show on Broadway in NYC

See a glacier in Alaska

Walk through a castle in England

Drive along Route 66

LIFE

Be an innkeeper

Working from home in my pajamas

Learn to snow ski

Learn to tango

Do video work for the Travel Channel

Run a marathon (NYC 2010)

ADVENTURE

Swim with stingrays

Ride a snowmobile to the top of a mountain

Kayak with manatees

Zip line through the tops of trees

Take a pole dancing class (I was fully clothed)

This list is always evolving and growing, but here's a snapshot of items still on my Bucket List ...

FOOD

Indulging in Serendipity III's $1000 Sundae

Enjoy a Malbec and churrasco in Argentina

Shop for produce in the floating markets in Thailand

Picnic in Lavender fields in Provence

Take a cooking class in Italy

Visit Willamette Valley wine country

TRAVEL

Go on safari in Africa

Sleep in an Ice Hotel

Be in awe of the Northern Lights in person

Walk on the Great Wall of China

Visit New Zealand

Sailing the Greek Isles

Work on my tan in Seychelles and Figi

Take a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Ireland

Sleep in a luxury train

LIFE

Publish a book with my travel recipes

Mash through a century ride

Bike from Inn to Inn in Vermont

Learn to speak French fluently (je compa a pur me je pal pa tre bien)

Go on a volun-tourism trip and make a difference

ADVENTURE

Learn to surf and scuba (this is concurring a fear)

Hiking through Mt. Ranier National Park

Swim with dolphins (can you believe I haven't done this yet? And I live in Florida!)

Walk on the Great Wall of China

Stand at the edge of the Grand Canyon

Fly in a hot air balloon

Hike around Macchu Pichu

Share with us your Bucket List travel wishes below in the comments!

Want to know what my top foodie pics are for Vancouver?  Have you ever experienced a Random Act of Culture while on a trip?  How about sweating out your troubles in a Temazcal?

Find out all of this and more on my recent posts for CheapOair.com ...

Vancouver Food Lover's Travel Guide

10 Ways To Entertain Yourself At An Airport

Travel Tips:  Mexican Temazcal - Too Hot To Handle?

Next month, the theme is Buckets Lists!  I'll be sharing my own list and posting quite a few bucket-list worthy stories from blogger friends.

This evening, I just added one more thing to my list and couldn't wait to share it ... flash mobs.  I want to be right smack dab in the middle of a flash mob some day.  The excitement and positive energy in these seemingly random events is contagious.  I figured it would make a great "Happy Friday" post.

Here are some that made me smile. Comment below and vote for your favorite!

The Australian's definitely know how to have fun ...

Brussels Train Station ... for cycling fans ...

And who would have known the Swedes were such Michael Jackson fans?

Changi Airport Millionaire Dance

Miami International Airport gets a little 'Random Acts of Culture'

And perhaps the one that started them all ... Liverpool Street Station
Life IS worth sharing, isn't it!

Have a happy Friday!

Vote below ... tell me which one of these flash mobs is your favorite!

After our adventures in Vancouver, this Four Seasons Journey in Whistler presented a few more daring "firsts" for me.  Such as riding a snowmobile to the top of a mountain, discovering what makes a good long bone, and walking through a hotel lobby Julia-Roberts-Style wearing nothing but a bath robe. After a relaxing and scenic ride along the Sea-to-Sky drive to Whistler, we checked-in to our rooms at Four Seasons Whistler, helped ourselves to  a cup of their famous hot chocolate and went for a tour of their residences.

Where Four Seasons Vancouver was very modern and eco-chic, the lobby in Whistler was warm, inviting and earthy.  Exactly what you'd want to come home to after a chilly day on the slopes.  One hallmark of Four Seasons is the way they capture the essence of the location's environment in their decor.

When our new Vancouver friends learned we were headed to Whistler, they didn't mention the awesome views or the skiing.  Instead, the first recommendation out of everyone' mouth was "you must try the hot chocolate in the lobby at the Four Seasons!"  Yes, it's that good.  I swear they must melt a bunch of Toblerone's and add in some Godiva to achieve the nutty creamy chocolatey goodness.  No powdered mix here.

I prepared for our ski and spa adventure, but with a view like this, a fireplace roaring, and room service, it was hard to convince myself to leave the room.

The residences are just as luxurious and stunning as the hotel ... but with much more room.  Just look at the appliance here ... built-in cappuccino maker ... Viking oven with gas range ...  I have kitchen-envy ...

After we "oohed an aaah'd" over the residences that were WAY outside of a travel writers budget (a girl can dream, can't she?) we suited up for taking a snowmobile ride up the mountain for dinner.

Now, I had no idea this was going to be an adventure sport.  I was thinking of a relaxing scenic ride up the mountain ... moonlight glistening on the snow and deer frolicking by.  Instead it was more like an escape scene from a Bond movie (albeit in slow motion).  Riding a snowmobile I guess is a lot like riding a motorcycle.  You've got to throw your weight into it in order to turn.  Considering that this machine weighed about 10x what I do, it involved dangling over the edge of the seat, fingertips barely clutching the handles, and one foot going airborne.  Top that with it being dark, not seeing where you are going, and every once in awhile having your headlight illuminate the steep edge of a black diamond trail ... I was totally freaked out.  I survived.  I didn't flip the thing.  But I was embarrassingly slow.  I blamed my snail-speed on being a Florida girl and apologized to the more adventurous Denver boys being me. But I was smiling the whole way!  I swear!  I know you can't see it behind that helmet, but there is a smile there.

The fondue at the top of the mountain was worth the effort.  We all packed into a little cabin and helped ourselves to some wine (to calm my nerves) and fondue (to warm our hands and fill our bellies).

Yummy hot cheesy goodness ...

There was live acoustic music, endless cups of hot chocolate and stories and laughter among new friends.  I almost forgot that I had to go back DOWN the mountain the same way.

Oh well.  I ignored the fact that the cold weather and white-knuckling the handlebars made me loose all feeling in my fingertips and just stayed focused on one thing ... at the bottom of this mountain was my cozy room ... with a fireplace ... and a hot bath! Now, about the bathtubs at the Four Seasons ... typically, I start bath, can go and check on email or tweet for 20 minutes while it's filling.  But this thing filled up lickety-split.  It wasn't even 5 minutes before I heard a weird gurgling noise and ran into the bathroom to find that I was about an inch away from flooding my room.  AAAARGH!

I let it drain a bit, then soaked away my snowmobiling nerves to start fresh for some ski and spa fun the next day.

The following morning we had breakfast at a ski shop, Can-Ski, and suited up for a day of skiing.  I got to try on this awesome Bogner jacket.  Price tag?  About $3000.  Oh yeah, it's sexy.  But if I paid that much for a jacket I'd frame the thing rather then subjecting it to me falling in the snow a half dozen times or lugging skis over my shoulder where they'd snag the hand sewn embroidery.

Speaking of lugging ski's ... I don't think I could ever ski again without a ski concierge.  What is a ski concierge, you ask?  Well, let me explain ...

(Side note: Here I'm showing off my glittery boots.  Anything with glitter is AWESOME)

Instead of lugging your gear from your condo or hotel room, the Four Seasons has a "ski concierge" at the bottom of the mountain (both Whistler and Blackcomb) waiting to check-in your gear and hand you a cup of their fabulous hot chocolate.  The best part is you can easily switch back into your regular boots so you're not walking around the village like a robot.  (Yes, walking in ski boot makes you do a funky robot walk.)

As a novice skier from Florida, I decided to take some lessons with Annie (@AnnieFitz).  At first, I was a little nervous as loaded us up on a gondola to get up to the beginner slopes.  But I learned there are  plenty of spots on the top of the mountain to catch a great view without having to ski down and was really impressed with how many options there are for dining on the mountain.

A must-do while in Whislter is the Peak-to-Peak gondola.  And you don't need skis to enjoy the view.  Just walk on and enjoy. Transporting you from the tip of Whistler to Blackcomb, this gondola is a world record breaker as the highest and longest unsupported gondola in the World.  It sounded scary ... I had to try it.

What amazed me the most about Peak-to-Peak is how calm and quiet the ride is. Most gondola's and chair lifts have a somewhat bumpy ride when going over the support towers ... but this was extremely quiet.  The day we were on the mountain we missed the "above the clouds" experience that Whistler is known for,  but instead had an amazingly clear view of the valley.

Annie and I waited in line an extra 30 minutes to experience the "glass bottom" gondola on the Peak-to-Peak.  I have to say, it's not worth standing in line for.   We spent most of our time looking out of the side windows at the horizon.

Whistler and Blackcomb are huge mountains.  Even if you are a expert skier, I think you'd need at least a full week of skiing to check out all the runs.

Since I'm not an advanced skier, I thought I'd share a link  from fellow travel bloggers, The Traveling Canucks, who are skilled enough to glide down slopes that are not just a black diamond, but are labeled as "most dangerous" with a skull and cross bones to make sure you get the point.  (Traveling Canucks Photo Essay of Whistler)

Next post, see photos of me walking around a hotel in my robe and find out more about the "Long Bone" that was on the menu at the Four Seasons ...

Moving is never fun.  I thought I'd be immune to the stress since I travel so often and live out of a suitcase anyway.  But I've learned that no matter where you are in the world, it's always comforting to have your own space to come home too.

This month my "space" has been disassembled and packed up in boxes as I move in with my Fiance.  Living between two places and trying to get work done while also re-organizing my entire life has knocked me off my regular routine of running.  I shouldn't have allowed that to happen since running is my muse and my meditation.   Not only did I stop running for the past 3 weeks, with my kitchen packed away neatly in boxes, we've been eating out ... A LOT!  My body finally rebelled by slowing me down with a head cold this past week.  I craved a healthy and refreshing reprieve.

Unpacking my office, I found this recipe on the top of my files.  It was from our stay at Stonehurst Place in Atlanta this past January.  We were there to write an anonymous review for Mr. and Mrs. Smith, a luxury travel website.  Every morning we had a healthy 3 course gourmet organic breakfast.  This recipe was for one of the first fruit courses.

I ran to the grocery store and picked up the necessary ingredients: honeydew, cantaloupe, fresh limes, honey and ginger.  The last three being exactly what I needed to knock out this head cold.  But then I passed by the mint.  "It's just me," I thought.  I don't really need the garnish, though mint would be nice and cooling to my scratchy throat.  What the heck.  If I was going through the effort of making this recipe, despite being knee-deep in boxes, I was going to make it photograph worthy and enjoy some fresh cooling mint.

Digging through my kitchen boxes, I found two glasses and my melon baller, gave them a good scrub after removing the delicately wrapped newspaper covering them.  But then came the question of "where" to snap a quick shot.  While consolidating our decorating styles, my fiance and I have been creating two mountains of furniture in the living area.  One to keep, and one to sell or give away.  This table was the closest to the window, providing some excellent natural light.  It was on the "sell/give-away" list ... until now.   My fiance thought it might be too "country" to fit in with his mostly modern style.  But just look at the texture!  After delighting in the crisp flavors of the marinade (I could drink the stuff, really, I could) and getting the feeling of having my "groove" back with a recipe done and camera in hand ... I've bonded with this table.  It's not going anywhere.

The best part? What ever I have left over from this recipe can get blended up (if I can find the blender) and mixed with champagne to celebrate the end of our move.

Enjoy the recipe below ...

Cantaloupe and Honeydew Melon in Lime Marinade

From Stonehurst Place in Atlanta, Georgia

Yield: 6+ cups

Ingredients:

1 firm cantaloupe melon

1 firm honeydew melon

Juice of two fresh limes

1 Tablespoon finely grated lime zest

1-2 Tablespoons (to taste) freshly grated Ginger

1/4 Cup honey

Instructions:

Cut the melons in half; remove the seeds and using a melon ball scooper cut into various bite size balls and mix in a large mixing bowl.  Whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, grated ginger and honey.  Adjust the seasonings to taste.  Pour over melon balls and gently toss to coat.  Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, stirring occasionally.  To serve, spoon into attractive serving containers and top with some fresh mint leaves or any garnish you choose.

Variations:

If there is excess, keep refrigerated and re-purpose within a day or so into a wonderful cold melon soup.  Drain (reserve the marinade) and place the excess melons into a food processor and puree.  If it is too thick, add some of the reserved marinade and/or a little half and half cream.  Just before serving, stir in some good champagne and served in chilled martini glasses to

This month, I've asked the "experts" to give us input into planning a travel focused wedding.  If you're planning a wedding (as I am!) and are looking for tips, I'll be posting several guest blogs this month from industry professionals for this month's theme, March Me Down The Aisle!  Our last one was from Stephanie (@TravelDesigned) about beach weddings.

Today's post is from someone who is always making me smile on Twitter.  Quick-witted and eager to share reliable information is Jeff Hendlin, also known on Twitter as @BridalTravelGuy.  Logging 100,000+ air miles a year, Jeff regularly speaks at destination wedding and honeymoon travel conferences and events throughout the US, Caribbean and Mexico while tweeting the whole way.  He is also the publisher for BridalGuide.com. Check out Jeff's tips for planning a destination wedding ...

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Destination weddings continue to grow in popularity however planning one can be a herculean endeavor.  The reality is the experience can be easier and less stressful than planning a hometown wedding for couples who are prepared from the beginning of the process.  Here are the “must-do’s” for planning destination wedding “I-do’s”:

Do your homework first

You’ve decided you want a destination wedding… but where?  Exotic destinations like Mexico or the Caribbean? A mountain-top in the Smoky mountains or Vail?  NYC, Vegas, Florida, etc.?  While there are an array of destination options, today’s millennial brides-to-be is about making her destination wedding an experience that is unique and unforgettable.  Start by finding inspiration in bridal magazines.  In an issue of Bridal Guide www.BridalGuide.com , you can find destination wedding features on Mexico, Caribbean, USA, Europe, Tahiti, Fiji and more and request the Free brochures… Visit the websites of destinations you’re considering (Examples: www.VisitJamaica.com www.VisitMexico.com www.ExploreAsheville.com.)  They’ll most likely have a tab for weddings to find out more information and linked to the properties.

Hire a Wedding Planner (specializing in destination weddings)

Save money & aggravation – Hiring a wedding planner is not cheap however the investment is worth it.  In some cases, wedding planners might even save couples money in the long run by passing along negotiated industry discounts from preferred vendors. Using a wedding planner gives couples a direct contact to resource knowledge and expertise ensuring a stress-free wedding planning process. Another question to ask is how much is your time worth?  The time spent on all the pre-wedding research on venues and suppliers and scheduling of appointments can save couples weeks if not months of time.

Your advocate – Typically when couples plan their own destination wedding, they’ll be assigned a wedding planner/coordinator as point of contact at a venue.  While their job is focused on catering to the couples needs, they’re also likely handling a roster of other weddings.  It’s not to say couples will get less by planning  destination weddings directly. Simply put, the destination wedding planner is interviewed by the couple, hired by the couple and who’s reputation is built on the success of the wedding.

Expert advice - Traveling to a destination to say “I Do” adds many more need-to-know factors prior the most detailed bride-to-be wouldn’t know or think to ask (i.e. blood test, marriage laws, shipping items internationally through customs, etc.).  One misstep can be disaster.  Although a Destination Wedding planner might offer to handle booking the travel for the wedding, I recommend doing it separately.

It’s about the guests too!

Assuming you’re not a billionaire, keep in mind your destination wedding guests are investing their time and money to celebrate with you.  It’s important to keep them informed about anything & everything about traveling.  For international travel, make sure everyone attending has a valid passport.  Be clear about transfers from airport, excursions, planned breakfast/lunch/dinner for the group, what will be provided in room, a list of things they should pack, amenities on property, what to do around the property. A great idea is to buy all the guests a book about the destination before the wedding.

I also recommend using Tour Operators and/or Travel Agents specializing in destination weddings to handle the travel planning.  Tour operators (Travel Impressions) and travel agent consortium (TravelSavers) specialize in small group destination wedding travel.  Benefits include securing a discounted block of rooms (The more rooms you book the more discounts you can receive), discounted ground packages and special airline fares for the group (depending upon the amount of guests traveling).  A nice touch couples can do is offer guests the opportunity to extend their stay after the wedding. The property will most likely honor the special group room rate.

Other insider Tips

Upgrades - As you get closer in to your wedding date (14-21 days before), ask to see what upgrades they have available (bigger event space, room category, services i.e. spa services, butler services).  While you shouldn’t expect to get them for free, you might score them for a fraction of the price.  Live by the credo don’t ask don’t get.

All-Inclusive Resort – Unless you want to foot the bill for all the meals or subsidize the F&B bill, I recommend an all-inclusive.  There are some amazing All-inclusive hotel chains in Mexico and the Caribbean that cater to the destination wedding market.  (www.dreamsresorts.com www.secretsresorts.com www.palladiumresorts.com www.palaceresorts.com www.sandals.com)

Pay with Credit Cards - AMEX has a customer insurance.  Most credit cards are connected to points too.  Might as well get  your points!

Sign up for guest rewards programs – Hotel, Airline, Car rental, Cruise line… No matter what it is, sign up for them.  For example Fairmont Hotels & Resorts President’s Club is free and immediate benefits include free WiFi, express check-in and more. Most loyalty programs gain access to special offers.

Get Social – Utilize the power of Twitter to ask questions, seek out information.

Communicate with your invitees – Create your own wedding website (most of them are free).  Direct your invitees to all that is going on through your destination wedding planning process.  Include links about the destination and property.  Check out Weddzilla.com and eWeddings.com

About Jeff

Jeff Hendlin, Publisher & Vice President of Bridal Guide magazine & BridalGuide.com is recognized throughout the bridal industry for not only his passion and creative thinking, but also for his commitment to educating  advertising partners on how to maximize their revenue potential.

Born and raised a true New Yorker Jeff is a die-hard fan of the Jets, Yankees, Knicks, Islanders & any team playing the Boston RedSux.  When he’s not working or spending time with his family, you’ll find Jeff on the golf course.  He’ll also jump at any opportunity to see an Aaron Lewis (lead singer of Staind) acoustic show.

The only thing I can think of that's better than chocolate ... is a FESTIVAL of Chocolate!  Fellow traveler and friend, Erika Henderson, indulged in a day of chocolate tasting at the Orlando Science Center.  Among the mouth watering displays of chocolate fountains, she also found chocolate covered crickets.  I've had crickets before ... perhaps if they were chocolate covered I would have made a happier face than the one in my post of How To Eat A Cricket.

Enjoy Erika's guest post below ... and try not to drool on your keyboard while reading about of four floors of chocolate.

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My mom ate chocolate covered crickets, but I didn’t have the nerve.  Thank goodness, there were plenty of other indulgent, mouth watering, chocolate delights for me to try at the Festival of Chocolate.  As mom savored her cricket, I looked in awe at table after table of more palatable choices.

For three years, this event at the Orlando Science Center has celebrated the history, science, and taste of chocolate – and it is very popular.  Being a bit crowd phobic, I was concerned I would be uncomfortable, but the intoxicating scent of cocoa lingering in the air calmed me and the mass of people thinned just beyond the entrance.

Inside, four floors of chocolate displays, vendors, and activities offered fun for all ages. Have you ever wondered how chefs make those dramatic chocolate centerpieces? A live demonstration by Chef David Ramirez of the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort illustrated the techniques and tools used to create these works of art.  Some of his suggestions were so simple that they would be easy to use at home, such as chocolate curls and simple flowers.

The exhibits on the history and science of chocolate were fascinating; from handling whole roasted cacao beans, to learning how Mayans used cocoa in their ritual beverages. Most were hands on, encouraging guests to feel, smell, and taste the ingredients.  A scavenger-hunt led participants through the exhibits looking for chocolate facts.  What a fun way to learn!

But let’s face it, I was there to eat sweets and was not disappointed!  With over two dozen vendors, there were more examples (and samples) of creative chocolate confections than one person could consume.  If a sample wasn’t enough, full size portions were for sale. Not all of the offerings were sweet.  A dark chocolate espresso chili showed how chocolate adds deep flavor to savory dishes.  After an hour, my sugar buzz was reaching new heights, but I couldn’t stop trying almost everything.

A gaggle of excited sugar-charged kids made dessert pizzas and dipped marshmallows in gooey chocolate fondue at the Kids Chocolate Clubhouse.  Adults indulged in a wine and chocolate paring event.  A chocoholic’s heaven!  The variations seemed never ending, but in the end, I had to pass on the chocolate worm-pops.

About Erika ...
Erika Henderson is a freelance writer, blogger, and photographer specializing in travel, aviation, and adventure sports.  Raised by nomadic parents, she sailed the South Pacific and Caribbean as a child.   She earned her pilot’s license before learning to drive, and now is a flight instructor with a degree in Aeronautical Science. Erika embraces social media, tweeting as @Active_Explorer and blogging on TheActiveExplorer.com.  Additionally, she tweets as @ErikaFHenderson on aviation topics and writes for Examiner.com as the Orlando Destinations Examiner.  She jokes that she “lives out loud” publicizing her adventures every step of the way. Insatiably curious, Erika is just as comfortable relaxing in a five-star spa as she is backpacking the Appalachian Trail - as long as she can tweet, write, and photograph the experience!

If you're the type that pulls out your green sweater and flips through your iPod to find some Celtic music to get into the spirit of things (eh uhm ... I'm not describing myself at all), then this recipe's for you.

Irish Scones.

If you want to be fancy schmancy, you could even pronounce them the way the Irish do, as "SKONS" instead of "SKOANS."  But it's more likely that your family would just look at you kind of funny and think you haven't had enough coffee quite yet.

I researched to see exactly *what* makes them Irish and to be honest I couldn't find anything definite other than the added ingredient of raisins and serving with strawberry jam and whipped cream. It's debatable where scones historically came from, but most agree it was Scotland. Just don't tell the Irish!  If you're interested in reading more about the history of this morning treat or other foods, check out the cutely named website,  The Nibble.

Scones are made with really basic baking ingredients.  I would liken them to a sweet biscuit.  Here's what you'll need ...

Add your dry ingredients to a large bowl and blend together with a whisk ...

The recipe calls for "bread soda" in addition to baking soda.  I coudn't find any at my local supermarket, so I omitted the bread soda from this batch of scones and they turned out just fine!

Add the butter in whole and "chop" it in.  You can do this best with a pastry blender.  If you don't have one, don't sweat it. You can usually find one at your local supermarket.  And who doesn't love a reason to buy a fun new kitchen gadget?

The curved wires of the pastry blender help blend in the butter ... plus it's a good stress relief exercise.  :o)

At this point, it was still a little powdery and not sticky enough to form a dough, so I added about 3 more tablespoons of butter then the recipe called for.

That did the trick!  Now I've got nice clumpy breadcrumbs.

Add a handful of raisins.  Looks like I added about 3 handfuls of raisins.  What can I say, I like my chewy bits.  I'm the type of girl that whips her spoon around to dig all the "cookie" bits out of cookies and cream ice cream and leaves a puddle of melted dairy in the bottom of the bowl.  I know I'm not the only one ... you know who you are!

Pour in enough buttermilk to bind, about a 1/2 cup.  The recipe's measurement was "enough milk" ... so I had a whole cup on hand. Buttermilk is one of those baking wonders.  If you've never baked with it before and now find yourself with a half a carton left in the fridge after making this recipe, click here for a fabulous orange muffin recipe where you can use your left over buttermilk.

Mix together with a wooden spoon.  You can also use your hands ...

... just remember to flour them up!  OOPS!  Guess I got a little zealous with my baking and dove right in without thinking.

Okay, now that my hands are nice and powdering with some all purpose flour ...

mold the dough into a disk ...

You could cut it like a pizza and make scone "wedges" which are a popular way to cut them as I did with the blueberry scones.  However, we wanted to make it a little more fun.  I asked the photographer for a glass ... he could only offer a pint ...

Well, at least it's keeping in the spirit of St. Patrick's day!

Bake your scones at 375 for about 10 to 15 minutes depending on your oven.  They should rise up just a tad.

We were baking enough for an army so I could bring them with me to the Daytime studio to share, so I found it easier to use parchment paper for easy clean up and disposable baking sheets instead of my baking stone.

If you haven't met already, I'm going to introduce you to your new best friend in the kitchen.  A carton of whipping cream.

Do you usually by the canned stuff?  If so, then you're going to squeal with delight at how easy it is to make whipped cream.  Just works out your forearm muscles a little.  And trust me, this little carton can do more than just make your coffee blonde.

With nothing but a whisk and a sprinkle of sugar you can whip it into the softest, creamiest whipped cream you've ever had in your existence.  No more squirt stuff.

Now, I really love my scones with a cup of tea.  But since my friends Jim & Beth only had English tea cups, we thought that would be sacrilige.

They've lived across the pond and swore to me that Guinness for breakfast is not just acceptable, but normal.  So, here's a toast to a real Irish breakfast for St. Patrick's Day.  Cheers!

Theresa's Iron Horse Irish Scones

from the Iron Horse Inn, Granbury, TX USA

Ingredients

12 oz all purpose flour

3 tbs butter

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp bread soda

3 tbs sugar

Handful of raisins

Buttermilk to bind

Directions

1) Combine flour, baking and bread soda’s.

2) Chop butter into flour and work with fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add raisins and enough buttermilk to bind the mixture into a workable dough.

3) Form a ball and knead a couple of times.  Roll out to ½ inch thickness.  Cut with cookie cutter (or a glass) and place on baking sheet.

4) Bake in oven at 375 for 10 -12 minutes. Cool for a short time until they are warm.  Serve with strawberry preserve and whipped cream.

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This is a guest post by long-time Twitter friend @TravelDesigned, known in real life as Stephanie.  She is a travel consultant that specializes in destination weddings and group travel.  She is also the founder of the Twitter hashtag, #MexMondays.

If you're planning a wedding (as I am!) and are looking for tips, I'll be posting several guest blogs this month from experts in the industry for this month's theme, March Me Down The Aisle!

Here are some tips from Stephanie on planning a beach wedding.

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Beach Weddings, post by Stephanie Diehl

Beach weddings are the dreams of many brides today. They are easier to plan when a professional travel agent specializing in destination weddings and honeymoons takes care of ALL the arrangements for you for little or no extra charge. Beach resort weddings are typically less formal a nd more intimate too. Another reason they are popular is you get to have your wedding cake and eat it too with a honeymoon that is included in one beautiful package.

Travel and wedding packages are definitely not created equal! To help keep these costs in check for you and your guests I recommend the better all inclusive properties. Amenities, food and beverage quality, and a very comprehensive wedding package are extremely important considerations.

One of the best wedding packages I have found for an average size group costs about $2800 in addition to travel arrangements and included these must haves:

• Officiant
• Pressing of bride and groom’s attire
• Bride’s hairstyling and makeup
• Spa package for bride and groom
• Bride’s  bouquet
• Groom’s boutonniere
• Corsages for mothers
• Floral arrangement & decoration of the wedding gazebo
• The wedding location –beach or gazebo
• basic white covered chair set up for 20 guests
• wedding cake an d sparkling wine toast for 20 guests
• cocktail re ception with canapés for 20 guests
• dinner reception for 20 guests with a floral arrangement on bride’s table
• photography –30 minute video and 50 digital prints
• Live music – 1 set

Even with all these amenities included, chances are there will some additional costs depending

on the size of your guest list,

wedding party and personalization. With such an exotic setting for your special day you may want include a private romantic photo session or the increasingly popular “trash the dress.” A "Trash the Dress" session is one of the hottest trends in creative photography.  Depending on the location, it can involve a stroll in a jungle or water setting with the bride and groom "trashing the dress" by playing in a fountain, the ocean or a pool.  These beautiful keepsake photos are very sensual, fun and flirty.

Fees for catering can run around $50-75+ per person. Brides need to keep this in mind when sending invitations if funds are very limited. Bridesmaid bouquets and additional boutonnieres, guest table decorations and favors are typically not included. All of these arrangements can be easily handled through the hotel for additional cost.

Brides can also make or buy these personal touches at home and save a lot of money. I don’t recommend sending them ahead, they are safer in your carry on or checked luggage. The extra space in your luggage on the way home can be used for souvenirs.

When getting married on foreign soil there are certain legal requirements that will be necessary. The requirements vary from country to country. Some countries are more complicated than others. This may have some bearing on which destination you choose.

Preparation and execution of legal documents are additional costs. My advice to couples who want to avoid jumping through these the legal hoops and costs is to have a legal, (think courthouse or private church), ceremony at home with a non legal dreamy beach ceremony and celebration.

When it comes to celebrating the hotel can arrange special events for you and/or your guests. Many hotels offer bonfire beach parties, fireworks, sightseeing tours, golf outings, spa days, sunset cruises, and romantic oceanfront dinners for two.

It’s so affordable and easy to make your beach wedding dreams come true!

-Stephanie

http://traveldesigned.com/

Twitter: @TravelDesigned