Diana Signing Off...Meet You On The Beach!

YAHOO --- Well here is my last blog article and getting ready to sign out...I am so ready, aren't you? This last week has been very exciting and filled with anticipation. I have been checking out the NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort Webcam & the weather icon. Kind of a pinch yourself am I really going kind of a thing. And yes, it's really happening!

Credit card company notified, bags are packed with contact & schedule, mail & paper cancelled, neighbors notified, my carry-on has my passport, ID, cash & small bills, flight confirmation number/e-documents, Apple Vacation Documents, key to the house, pen, cards & scorecards, mobile phone, music, book, hand sanitizer, goodies to munch & share on the plane. I believe I bulged out my pouch and exceeded the maximum capacity for carry-on!

Now that I caught my breathe in excitement! Let me once again extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for having each of you make this journey with us, celebrating 20 years plus together, wow! Each of you has a story with us and that is what makes this trip so very special. Thank you so very much for being in my life and in ours ... Roger and mine that is!

I also wanted to give "THANKS" to a few of our guests who have gone above & beyond for us in the launching of this trip. These individuals are "Martie" who will be our renewal officiant, our renewal attendants, Russell, Buzz, Mike, Karen, Laura & Alex. We have three photographers - Ani, Randy & Rocky who you will see taking photos through out our trip! So smile and remember to say ..."Queso"! Special thanks to my bro' Reagan and our friend Mike who is helping Martie with the music and "those incidentals". Special gratitude to Karen & Buzz who both have stepped in supporting us with the background details as well as keeping our "daily life commitments" balanced by offering to handling whatever we need to kick off a "getter done " mode. And in this committee of friendships, though this may be her business and her job. I need Alex to take a bow. If you only knew the emails, phone calls, research, coordinating, planning and oh "discussions" we had to get this trip underway, whew! Glad we are going to have some fun now!

Finally I want to give a "shout out" to my main man Rog', my "Big" Boy -Hunk a Burning Love - Stud Muffin Dude - Funny Man - Honey Do This - Best Partner - My One & Only - Love of My Life friend... yes, we're doing it again Husband! We certainly aren't perfect, but together it's near perfection! Thanks for all your love, support & "tolerance"...I couldn't do it without you my main man Rog', love you lots .... now let's get going, start the fun and of course "meet you on the beach" everyone!!!

Photo taken & provided by Randy

SOME FINAL THOUGHTS FROM ROGER.....

“Holy Yucatan Peninsula Batman, the Davis’ rat pack is about to descend on this once sleepy vestige of Mexican culture.” “Huh, what, I was just nodding off my young, but always vibrant, companion.......were you bragging about my endowment or just fantasizing about my utility belt??” “Neither my masked marvel......go back to sleep.” (Damn he looks good in those grey tights and black cape).

Well, despite Batman and Robin’s lack of interest in this wedding renewal event, the rest of us are raring to go!! Can you imagine, all the food and alcohol you can consume??.....are they crazy??.....surely they’ve heard of Russell and Randy south of the border?? Yes, I know there is more to this event than “free” food and drink.....but you have to admit, it’s a pretty big draw.

As you know, the actual renewal ceremony will be on Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. on the beach. So please pace yourself in the drinking end of things so you can at least show up. Lest any of you worry about going into withdrawals, there will be a cocktail reception immediately following the ceremony. BTW, in case any of you want to challenge and/or defend anything I may have written about you in my “Spotlight” articles......or if you just want to take a shot, the reception will be the perfect opportunity. Just remember, unless I’m over served (once again), I’ll have the last shot!!

If you’re looking for an opportunity to “buy” your favorite travel hostess a drink, Diana enjoys a Pina Colada with a dark rum float or a shot of good tequila with lime and salt. God knows she deserves these given the many, many, many hours she has spent (to all hours of the night) at the computer writing the many blog articles so the rest of us will all know WTF is going on and/or what we’re doing. ‘Course now that I think about it you can also “buy” me drink too for all my lonely nights while these articles were being composed, written and posted for your benefit!!

See you at one of the bars!!

Few Words From Alex...

OMG....it's time to leave for the airport! Well, maybe not just quite yet, but I'm sure that you're as ready as I am. I'm looking forward to much warmer temperatures. Getting ready to leave town can be stressful and energy sapping. Don't forget to get enough rest before you leave so that you're not too tired to P-A-R-T-Y !

Remember to pack your valuables into your carry-on...stuff that you'd really be upset if it got lost. Especially medications, documents, camera, jewlery, and that special bathing suit that makes you look 10 pound less. If your luggage should get lost or delayed, at least you can go for a swim.

Also, don't forget the biodegradeable sunscreen. I found some in Mother's Health Food Store here in southern Calif. The snorkeling excurion is in a lagoon that requires biodegradeable sunscreen. I also understand that they sell some right at the lagoon if you don't happen to get some before you leave. I'll have some that I can share as well.

Thank you for joining us on what promises to be another excellent adventure. This is a very special part of the world. Sometimes I think we take it for granted since we live so close to Mexico, but people travel great distances to visit this fascinating area. We're very lucky.

Hasta luego!

Alex

What Are Your FIVE?

Well you all have done a wonderful job preparing and getting ready. The juggling, double checking & crossing off the list is at a near end. I came across this article recently "5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Vacation" that made me me reflect a little of our upcoming trip. Here are things that I thought would try and do to make the most of my getaway.

1. Leave my electronics! I'm not taking my laptop and turning my cell phone off once I get on that plane. Of course once, I land back in LAX...I'll turn it on so I can be available for our shuttle back home. Oh camera and my music...now that's a different story...so smile when I point & shoot!

2. Relax! Going with the flow and try to be patient....will be what I am going to aspire too. After all I'm on vacation, right?

3. Be Polite! We're not in the US of A and so the ways of doing things as well as the expectations will be different. Which is the beauty of visiting another country and experiencing a different world.

4. Have Fun & Enjoy! Its a week of my life and would like to make it count. Its not often we get to celebrate with friends & family.

5. Experience...already have this on my mind! Want to see the ruins, swim in sea garden of the Yucatan, savor the flavors of the Mayans and finely lavish in the luxury of our resort.

Now what are your five ?

Avoid Disasters..Yes You Can!

I recently received this article "Top Ten Disasters You Can Avoid" by Independent Travelers . Some of these top ten tips are great for our circumstances and so it made me think of what Top Ten guidelines I would own. So here's my top ten (using some of theirs) and hopefully like the article for me, you can use some of my tips as well.

1. Call your credit card company. Make a simple call and let them know you are leaving the country and where and when you will be gone. Confirm a toll free number in case of emergency.

2. Don't forget your passport & documents. Get a basket and start to put those item in it as the departure date approach. Do it when you thought about it. Like NOW!

3. Itinerary in your luggage & carry-on. It takes just a few minutes, but can save your life. Well it feels like it when you loose your suitcase or purse. Write down your flight and resort contact. Write your week's schedule so the airline can get your luggage to you. As well as your mobile number so they can reach you about your luggage.

4. Where did I park my car? Snap a photo of the parking lot section number with your phone camera or write it down on your parking lot ticket. Great idea Independent traveler!

5. Keys? Roger has this climbing hook called a carabiner. Its a handy item to hook your keys and attach it to your carry-on. It stays in place and the carabiner comes in various sizes and colors.

6. Pick Me Up please? Whether its a family or friend picking you up or perhaps a limo driver. Get their email and you can email your confirmation/reminder from the NOW Jade Riviera Resort Preferred Club Lounge. Or make a copy of the contact information & itinerary that goes into your luggage as a reminder.

7. Leave Early? There are a number of websites you can check traffic, weather and such. But nothing works best then plenty of time. So leave early and so what if you get there early. Relax have a cup of something and grab a magazine to take on the plane!

8. Stop mail? Paper? You don't want to alert the burglars that you are out of town by not canceling your paper and mail. Also if you are in good with neighbors, let them know your absence and return the favor for them on their next trip.

9. Nightmare Seats? Plane is full and no option to move. Remember, you're on vacation, it's not forever. Grab those head phone and maybe a nice drink to calm you down. It's mind over matter...really!

10. In-Flight Food? I don't think so, those days are gone or far and few between. So plan ahead and prepare a little. You can always get a drink but bring something from home and your crankiness and gurgling stomach will be a lot happier.

Photo provided by Flickr.HenriqueVicente

Complimentary Activities...that means FREE!

Well I guess nothing is truly free, is it? You did pay for the resort however the NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa does have some cool activities to keep you moving so those tacos and umbrella drinks don't create a an air tube around the middle for you.

On their website, I came across a number of activities that you can enjoy. They are:

Two (2) free form fresh water pool with swim up bars. I think swimming up to the swim up bar is an activity, right? Three (3) outdoor lighted tennis courts. Oh Marty is bringing his racket if anyone wants to play. He claims to be a beginner, but I'd be on guard for those slams close to the net...Sun sailing? Not sure what this is... Snorkeling, Hobie Cats & Wind Surfing, Aerobics and a gym with stair climber, elliptical machine, stationary bicycle, treadmills, fitness machine & free weights.

There are more activities and services for additional fee.

Photo provided by NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

Anticipated Dollars Needed for Tipping?

Some were asking how much cash should I bring for tips and shopping? Roger and I were listing out an anticipated cost of what we should bring for tipping money and since we were doing this thought you all might like a guideline to go by...as for shopping for us we don't plan to do much ...a postcard or two...silver and gold are costly and so no jewelry here. So what do I need a sombrero too big to carry on the plane?...hmm!

So here's a minimum that we expect to occur for tipping...

• Shuttle Service Driver Home>Airport 20% of total cost
• Baggage Porter Airport LAX $1-2/bag
• Baggage Porter Airport CUN $1-2/bag
• Shuttle Driver CUN>RESORT $5-10
• Resort Bellman $1-2/bag
• -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• RESORT -Housekeeping $2-5/day pending how messy or request special services
• Room Service 15-20%
• Bartender $1-2/round or 15% + per round for group or more for service ?
• Favorite Server (3?) 15-20% or "X " dollars pending service @ end stay
• Concierge Service 15-20%
• Preferred Club Concierge Lounge 15-20%
• Excursions (2-3) Tour Guide $5/person or 15-20%
• Excursion Driver $2/person
• ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• Special Services 15-20% or as the services provided to your satisfaction
• ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• Return Home
• Resort Bellman $1-2/bag
• Shuttle Driver RESORT>CUN $5-10
• Baggage Porter Airport CUN $1-2/bag
• Baggage Porter Airport LAX $1-2/bag
• Shuttle Service Driver Home>Airport 20% of total cost

Photo provided by Flickr.borman818

FOOD, TSA & Virgin America's Meal?

Karen shared with me some information about what may be allowable and not for what we can bring on the plane. First, don't bother with "DRINKS"... Get that on the plane, but what about other stuff?

Karen and I were talking about what kind of goodies to bring on the plane. Because we have a group leaving on Virgin America from LAX couple of us have decided to bring some goodies to share...Karen at last words spoke about bringing cookies, Jan mentioned about bringing some lemon bars and I am planning to bring my pumpkin-apple cake sliced, wrapped and ready to share. So dessert is covered if you are with the Roger & Diana group Virgin America Flight 290.

Here are a couple of links that Karen referenced to see what she can bring for meal items through security and also what Virgin America offers for food that you can order/pay on board. You will need a credit card to order food and booze. So pull that out with your pen (which you will need to fill out forms before Mexico) for easy access. Thanks Karen for sharing this!

Transportation Security Administration

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/holiday.shtm

Virgin America

http://www.virginamerica.com/inflight/airline-food.html

Mexican Cocina (Kitchen)?

We're pretty lucky in California to have some awesome Mexican eats. But trying the really thing is authentic...so,

Thought I would highlight some Mexican cuisine that you might have tried or not. Here are a small listing that might be helpful to you as you are wandering through PDC or Puerto Morelos for some local eats.

Also check back on the blog articles "PDC - Playa del Carmen" & "Puerto Morelos -eats & Drinks" for more restaurants & eateries.

Lomo - Pork Loin

Asada - Steak

Pollo - Chicken

Lengua - Tongue

Pata - Pig or Beef Feet

Tacos Dorados - Crunchy Tacos

Tacos Suaves - Soft Tacos

Ceviche - Fresh raw seafood marinated in fresh lime juice garnished with tomatoes, onions, chillies and cilantro

Sope - thickish small circle of fried masa with pinched sides, topped with meat or fish, onions, salsa, lettuce

Machaca - Shredded beef scrambled with eggs and some vegetables

Carnitas -pork deep cooked in lard & simmered served with tortillas

Chile en nogada - Problano pepper stuffed with ground pork & beef spices, fruits,raisins & almonds, friend lightly battered with a walnut cream sauce

Gorditas - thickish fried corn tortilla, slit & stuffed with choiceof beef pork or chickenwith or without lettuce, cheese, tomatoes & onion.

Tacos al Pastor - Thin sliced of flavored pork roasted on a revolving cylinder dripping with onions slices and juice of fresh pineapple slices. Served in small corn tortilla ith chopped onions & cilantro.

Torta - a sandwich , usually on bolillo bread, typically with sliced avocado, onions, tomatoe with chice of meat and often cheese.

Photo provided by Flickr.christophermacsurak

2 Davis' 4 Dinner @ NOW Jade...please!

Been surfing the internet a bit to explore and see if I can get any idea of the restaurant scene for the NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort. Haven't found much other than 1. names and descriptions of the restaurants 2. which restaurants require a dress code 3. the resort restaurants do not take reservations 4. the seating capacity are small with approximately 10 or so tables per establishment, so potential delay for getting in, count on it!

The reviews seem to vary on opinions and often there are whiners or mix matched hotel guests. So these reviews I take with a grain of salt. However for those guests of ours who have been loyal blogerss...did want to let you know that Roger and I will be checking out each of the restaurants during our stay and on Wednesday after our cocktail reception. We will try out the 'Tamarindo", mexican cuisine....hopefully this will be the easiest to get in...we shall see or maybe change out at the last minute?

Oh and all else fails, because you decided to hang out at the bar...don't forget room service it's part of the all inclusive service and 24 hours to boot!

Hope you all have begun laying out your outfit. Below is a recap of the appropriate dress code

for each of the dining establishment at the NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort.

DRESS CODE: "CASUAL ELEGANCE"

Capers - "Italian Cuisine" Dinner Only

Mercure - "French Cuisine" Breakfast & Dinner

Tamarindo - "Mexican Cuisine" Dinner Only

Spice - "Asian Cuisine" Dinner Only

Cin Cin - "Mediterranean Cuisine" Dinner Only

DRESS CODE: "CASUAL"

Carnival International Buffet Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Castaways - Lunch Only

Coco Cafe - Premium Coffee & Deli

Photos provided by Apple Vacation

Biodegradable Sunscreen..Mother's Market

Wanted to share this tip now. Alex has an upcoming blog article she wrote which will be posted on March 4th. Thought if you were interested, you might want a few more days to make this purchase. If you are from Southern California you might be familiar with Mother's Market check out this link for location.

Alex has found a biodegradable suntan lotion that will work for use at Yalku Lagoon for snorkeling. She says she has a bottle to share but if anyone else can get one that would be great for those guests who are out of the area. I will try and check out our local health food store to see if they might have one as well. Alex said they also sell this at the lagoon.

Thanks Alex for this helpful tip! Roger is gonna love you as my "Pale Face -Body Boy" will need the sunscreen for sure.

Photo provided by Flickr.Crinity

CARDS ANYONE?

Anyone who hangs out with Roger or Diana knows that they love playing 'Progressive Rummy'.

Its a card game that is actually quite easy to learn and play. And the great thing about it is that you can actually drink, eat and play all at the same time, really! These things not necessarily in priority order, seem to be top choices for things to do with

the Davis'. So if you are incline to give it a try and join in. There will be a number of our guests on hand to teach you. So don't be afraid to inquire. So who are they you ask?...well, Buzz, Karen, Russell, Martie, Paul, Mike, Laura, Reagan, Fumi, Ani, Tim to name but just a few...

During this trip we will be having a bit of fun competition for those wanting to play. NO, of course it's optional. YES, it includes winners, prizes and verification of scores of course. You really thought we would trust you? Not when it comes to cards!...oh so now you want to play huh? Well join in, hang on to those scoresheets as we will be keeping track to determine the awards of the prize. Karen and Buzz has graciously accepted to assist us on this activity. And so check-in with them and ask them for the rules to win.

More specific details for this contest will be provided at the resort... Following is the rules for the game...but trust me, it's a lot easier to join in and pick it up from actually playing the game...it's not hard, really-give it a try!

PROGRESSIVE RUMMY GUIDELINES

1 standard playing deck of 52 cards plus 2 jokers (minimum) • 6 players maximum per 1 deck of cards

Object of the Game – Player with lowest point wins

RULES OF THE GAME

• Determine who will start the deal by turning cards face up in front of each player and the first player with a “Jack” is the first determined dealer.
• All cards are face value……Ace’s = 1 (with the exception for the first round in which the Ace is a wild card and worth 15 points……tens and face cards= 10 point each. Wild cards are worth 15 points including the Joker cards.
• Begin the first hand with “Aces” being wild; the second hand “Twos” are wild…..through Kings.
• Ace is always low as one , and never high King.
• Dealer deals 7 cards to each player, starting at his/her left.
• Dealer turns over the top card after dealing everyone 7. Dealer is the first to play by either taking the card turned over or drawing from the deck. If dealer gets a wild card, he/she has the option to keep it to play later.
• Object is to get rid of all cards in your hand with the lowest point value. You must initially have 25 points to lay down and can do so with a minimum of three of a kind (3 tens would work or 2 fives and a wild card, etc.) or a run of three or more of the same suit that add up to 25 points. You can also have two sets of three cards or more that add up to 25 points as well (Example; Game 5, Fives are wild, you can lay 3 Fours = 12 + 3 cards of the same suit, 5, 6, & 7 hearts = 18, your total points 12 + 18 = 30 to lay down, qualifies for 25 or more points).
• Once you lay down your initial 25 points, you must wait until your next turn to play cards in your hand on any other players “lay downs”. You may continue to lay down additional runs or three of a kind that are of any value on your turn. You may also exchange a card in your hand that is being used by a wild card on any of the “lay downs”….but the wild card taken from the table on others set lay down cards must be used at that time. You cannot hold the wild card for use in your hand for a subsequent turn.
• If you draw a wild card off the deck pile you have the option to use it or choose to play it later and keep in your hand till your decision to discard. Again remember, Wild Cards are worth 15 points!
• Once the draw card pile is gone, then the play is to go around one last time till a player cannot play in which case the game is over and everyone counts their points to tally or…
• The first player to get rid of all of their cards is the winner of that round. All other players get charged the number of points in their hands for the score sheet.
• At the end of the game (13 rounds……..Ace being the first round and the King is the last round) the player with the least number of points is the winner of that game.
• Each game must have a minimum of two players and a maximum of no more than six players.
• The winner of the 13 rounds will be the player with the lowest average for all games played.

Progressive Rummy... "Join Us" says Karen & Buzz!

PRIZES-FUN-PRIZES-PLAY-PRIZES-EASY -PRIZES-CARDS-PRIZES!

Did we tell you there were going to be prizes? Well come find Karen or Buzz as they have been recruited with coordinating the Progressive Rummy Game that Roger and Diana so love to play!

We will be handing out rules, scoresheets, playing cards & pen at the resort, so form a group or join in with any of us playing and enjoy the challenge and camaraderie. At the end of each game or at some point during the trip, turn in your scoresheets (be sure you identify the players) to Buzz or Karen. We will keep track of the highest ("Loser") and the lowest ("Winner") scores for the week and at the last night (Friday) happy hour cocktail time, prizes will be announced and

distributed. Since this is a celebration of their 20th year of marital bliss, Roger & Diana have decided to also have special prizes for anyone with a score that ends in '20, such as 20, 120, 220, 320 (you get the picture) or '90 as they got married in 1990!

So grab a drink, a snack and tanning lotion and meet us for some fun and entertainment. We'll be floating around throughout the week to help or coordinate games and root you on.

Cheers!

Karen & Buzz

Spotlight by Roger: "REAGAN & FUMI "

Fumi is Diana’s mom and Reagan is her younger brother. Both have been to just about every travel adventure that Roger and Diana have been able to put together.....and they are really fun to have along. Every once in awhile Roger and Diana are able to convince mom to come to Laguna Beach and spend some time with them. The trip usually lasts just a few weeks before mom needs to get back to Sonoma and be with Butch and Mylet (two miniature poodles) who are spoiled rotten....go figure!! Reagan holds the dubious distinction of having accumulated the highest score (not a good thing) in the infamous Progressive Rummy game. He has been accused of sand-bagging so don’t play him for money.

Reagan likes a good Sea Breeze cocktail (not sure what this is but rumor has it that it comes with a little pink umbrella) and mom likes Sunkist orange soda. Of course many of you might recall when Buzz got Mom pretty well looped on Bloody Mary’s at Roger and Diana’s wedding of all places......so maybe just one....OK, two at the most...naw go for it Mom, it's your Birthday live it up!!

Let's Rendezvous in CUN...maybe?

Listed below are the approximate arrival time for our group. After clearing all the required airline arrival regulations & procedure with immigration, baggage claim and customs. Proceed to the public area where the awaiting public, shuttle, transfers and yes unfortunately timeshare promoters will be. Find the APPLE VACATION representative with the appropriate ID badge and check in with that individual for your pre-paid shuttle service to the resort. You will need your Apple Vacation Voucher. Tips/Gratuity is not included.

I have listed the individuals that are in our group so you can perhaps cross paths at the airport, pending the waiting time to fill the shuttle vehicle to the resort. So if you recognize someone, you might very well be seated in the vehicle with them. See you at the resort soon!

Date: Saturday, March 5

Time noted are anticipated flight arrival time

Russell & Randy there already, planning to be at resort around 2 or 3pm

Reagan & Fumi 3:45pm

Tim & Ani 3:45pm

Laura & Dell 3:45pm

Mike T 4:20pm

Naomi & Joan 4:38pm

Rocky & Peggy 6:05pm

Roger & Diana 7:20pm

Karen & Buzz 7:20pm

Jim & Jan 7:20pm

Diane 7:20pm

Melissa & Ben 7:20pm

Marty 7:20pm

Alex 7:20pm

Mike & Dani 9:35pm

Martie & Paul 3:45pm (Monday, Mar 7)

** Flight arrival time was checked as of Saturday, 02/27/11

Photo provided by Flickr.cameronparkins

This may be good news for Virgin America flyers!

If you are on Virgin America Airlines and traveling to & fro Mexico, I may have great news for you! Buzz pointed out to me about Virgin America's baggage policy. If you purchased your tickets after August 30, 2010, Main Cabin guests are permitted one (1) piece of luggage at no charge. Main Cabin Select & First Class are permitted two (2) pieces at no charge. There is however a oversize and overweight bag fee. So cheek out this policy as follows on the link below:

http://www.virginamerica.com/

Go to...

FAQ >Checked baggage >What are your baggage fee?>Guest Traveling To & Fro Mexico

Photo provided by Flickr.striatic

Spotlight by Roger: "MARTY"

Marty is also single and given the fact that he has a home in both Irvine and Hawaii, drives a new Lexus and wears designer clothes he may be the answer to several of our other singles........except for a few important factors. First off, he’s not old and doesn’t have one foot in the grave (sorry Diane) and secondly, he’s not gay (sorry Mike)....geeze no one catches a break here!! Marty met Diana and Roger thru the City of Irvine (notice the word “work” was not mentioned!). He claims that we all met in Las Vegas where Roger won Diana in some sort of poker game....huh? Since retiring, Marty has been on a very successful weight loss program and is one of the most positive persons either Roger or Diana have ever known......way to go Marty. Marty was last in Cancun in 1999 and is hoping to once again hook up with the girl of his dreams who will wait on him hand and foot, see that his every desire is met without question or delay and be with him for at least the next several nights.......keep on dreaming and/or keep the alcohol and drugs flowing......what color is the sky in his world???

Marty tried to do the volunteer thing and all was going well until they had the nerve to suggest a SCHEDULE......WTF??? So now the only volunteer effort is to join Roger and Diana on their travel adventures. Seems his favorite drink is a Red Bull cocktail or and I quote here “anything with a parasol, sweet and tangy on my lips, and a good kick”......WTF?? And he likes his women this way too.” Again, WTF?!?

"Say a Few Words?"

Seems only fair to offer this opportunity to our guests who would like to say a few words , share a story or perhaps get even with Roger for his article blog or maybe just torment Diana for having to tolerate scrolling through paragraphs of blah-blah-blah on this #*%@ Blog?

Whatever the reason, we do think of you and wanted to give you this opportunity. So if you need some preparation time you have this coming week to pull it together and .... our Cocktail Reception will be the time to share and present.

All you need to do is let Roger know, so he can coordinate this opportunity ... the stage will be yours.

Photo provided by Flickr.net-efeket

Try This?

Here's a last minute item you can pick up at your local CVS Pharmacy. It's a great hand sanitizer. CVS has a small purse size squirt tube (that you might on occasion see Roger hanging on his T-Shirt neck collar) and you can get the larger refills. Also, check the travel size bin section as they may stock the smaller carry-on "refill" size.

What I like about this hand sanitizer is that it is liquid verse gel. meaning that when you spray it is like water and dries clean. Unlike the gel that is sticky at times.

I have included a photo of the product. So if you have a CVS near by it's worth checking out this product. Oh by the way, I mention CVS because this item is a CVS brand product. Hope you find it.

Foodie, the Brave & Curious...Mayan Cuisine

What is Yucatan or Mayan Cuisine? Without going into the details of the Yucatan history and periods, what I can gather is that an influence of the Mayans who introduced to the New World corn, chocolate, honey, venison, wild turkey, pheasant, squash, cucumbers, chillies & tomatoes AND Spain who brought Pork and Seville Orange which is a sour flavored orange AND finally the Dutch who shared Edam and Gouda Cheese.

Add the Yucatan cuisine spices that seem to influence it's international fame such as pumpkin seed powder, oregano, red onion, sour orange, sweet pepper, lime, achiote or recado colorado paste-sauce,capsicum pepper (Xcatik), Habanero pepper & corander.

Plus, bring habaneros and recados, the basic ingredients in Yucatan cuisine - recados are marinated pastes made of cloves, black pepper, oregano, cumin,garlic, coriander and vinegar. Most common is the red paste version which gets its color from adding "achiote" (annatto seeds) to the mixture.

Replace the local pheasant and deer with turkey & pork (Don't panic for those not that brave). And don't forget an important table sauce often used is called "Xnipek" which is a type of salsa/sauce that is made of habanero chilies, scallions, citrus juice & cilantro. Then you have the basic foundation of Mayan cuisine.

Listed below are some of the Mayan cuisines I have found through my exploration and hope to try at the Yaxche Restaurant in Playa del Carmen. After all basic ingredients don't come about with a good chef or cook, right?

I have also added below some links that were helpful to me and hopefully for you to visit and enhance my very limited snapshot of what this fascinating cuisine has intrigued me to taste and savor . Hope this helps!

DRINK

Xtabentun - similar to icy margarita. Made with local anise & honey Liquer

Chaya Drink - made of ground rice, chaya (regional plant or Pitahaya)

Micheladas - tangy mix of lime juice, worchestshire sauce or soy sauce,tabasco & good dark Yuctan Beer

Chelada -which is a Michelada without the tabasco,peppers & other seasoning Just,beer/Lime & Salt

SNACKS/APPETIZERS/BOTANAS

Papadzules -hard cooked eggs wrapped in corn tortilla with pumpkin seed sauce

Soap de Lima - chicken tortilla soup flavored with local variety of sour lime.

MAYAN (YUCATAN) ENTREE

Cochinita Pibil - pit roasted pig marinated in sour seville orange juice, garlic, achiote & yucatan spices

Queso Relleno - stuffed cheese rind of edam cheese filled with mixture ground beef,raisin, olives, almonds & spices

Panuchos - layered hand made corn tortilla stuffed with beans, topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, red onion rings and xnipek salsa

Chilmole - turkey in a dark spicy sauce

Poc-chuc - charbroiled slices of pork with onions, marinated in a sour orange sauc

Pescado Tikinxic: fish marinated in achiote sauce wrapped in banana leaves and charbroiled. Served with a tomatoe & habanero sauce.

Huevos Motulenos - Friend eggs atop a tortilla garnished with beans,peas,ham,sausage, plantains & grated cheese - Yucatan specialty

Pavo relleno negro - a stuffed turkey yucatan style, filled with chopped pork & beef cooked in a rich dark sauce

Food and Wine - Yucatan Adventure

Colors & Flavors of Yucatan Cuisine - Cancun.com

YucatanToday.com -Yucatan Cuisine

MexConnect.com - Cuisine of the Yucatan - a Gastronomical Tour of the Mayan Heartland

Photo provided by Yaxche Restaurant website gallery

R & D for "Yaxche" Mayan Cuisine

That's Roger & Diana, not Research and Development...well hold on, hmm? Maybe it is...

Not to take away from our incredible snorkeling adventure to Yalku Lagoon. But after a good swim and enough salt water in your mouth. I know Roger and I are gonna be ready for a cold drink and lunch! Well anyone who knows me (and can see me), knows that I am a "Foodie" and since I've never been to the Yucatan, well Mayan cuisine has got my curiosity. So through some research... here we are.

During our visit to Playa del Carmen (PDC) the Yaxche Restaurant has me personally intrigued. So that is our PDC tourist destination - First Mayan cuisine and if there's time after we will stroll and explore.

Below are some information and links about this very unique restaurant. It is not a "hole in the wall" joint and not the 5 Star restaurant either. Moderately priced is what my 2010 Frommer's Guide stated. Meal to cost between $10-30 pending what you get. The draw here is that this is the closest we can get to on this trip for true Mayan cuisine without having Anthony Bourdain or Andrew Zimmern with us from the Travel Channel! So check out the information if this is of interest for you. R & D are planning to head to Yaxche (that's pronounced, jag-shey)!

Yaxche Restaurant Website

PlayaInfo.com - Yaxche Restaurant

TripAdvisor-Restaurant Review

Chowhound- review

Photo provided by the Yaxche restaurant website gallery

Spotlight By Roger: "NAOMI & JOAN "

Both Naomi and Joan live in Hawaii and got to know Diana through their mutual professions in Parks and Recreation. Seems the Hawaii folks attended a conference in San Diego back in the ’80’s, met Diana, and started taking trips to Ensenada to enjoy lobster in Puerto Nuevo and steak at El Rey del Sol in Ensenada......and the rest is history. They did this for 20 years until they all retired. Of course Ensenada is still talking about their naked pool adventures, tequila shots (a “hot-flash” in a bottle per Naomi), miso soup in the rain, and Naomi’s famous survey questions (i.e. “other than your spouse, who would you like to have sex with?”)......some answers were really surprising and some couples are still recovering.

QUESTION....ever wonder who would buy all of that CRAP you see for sale in Mexico.....especially at the border?? Joan and Naomi please raise your hands!! Since Joan likes wine and Naomi goes for Margaritas, perhaps alcohol plays a small role in their purchasing selections........one can only wonder!?!

Mexico, Mariachis, Music & Memories

We are headed to Mexico...the land where good times are had, where songs are of romance,

love & tequila. Oh and yes, stories & fun experiences are born - just wait & see!

Near 25 years ago I 'ventured to my first visit to Mexico with my Parks & Recreation friends from Hawaii. You will meet two of them on this trip by the way, Naomi & Joan. After our annual conference in Southern California we would partake about 2-3 nights and drive in a caravan and head towards Ensenada for lobsters, camaraderie and of course tequila, beer and shopping!

One of the highlight of our trip was the mariachi who usually strolled to our table requesting songs to be sung. Back in '86 a song came about for $1...but probably will do so now for 5? The musicians generally played off key, hardly harmonize and because the songs were in Spanish who knows what is being sung, but after our stomachs were full with lobsters and our brain was polluted with margaritas and beers...well my memory to this day has me nostalgic for more Musica de Mexico!

Below are some of my favorite songs and I also included a few Mexicana/Latino/ Hispanic/Spanish related songs that I enjoy. Have any favorites you'd like to share so we can ask the mariachi to play AFTER we get polluted so it will sound as sweet and lovely as I remember...

Diana's 'Caliente' Top Choices

1. "Solamente Una Vez" ( ask Naomi to sing along in English)

2. "Cuando Caliente del Sol"

3. "Sabor A Mi"

4. "Besame Mucho" My fav' by A Bocelli

5. "Cuando, Cuando Cuando" by M. Buble

And after all I am an Americans...so add these favorites as a related to Mexico selection. Listen to the verses & beat...you'll get it!

6. "Smooth" & "Corazon Espinado" by Santana

7. " No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem", "Beer in Mexico", "You & Tequila" 'Tequila Loves Me"

by Kenny Chesney

8. "Mexico" by James Taylor

9. "Changes in Latitude & Changes in Attitude" & "Margaritaville" by Jimmy Buffet

10. And of course...everyone's favorite ... "TE-QUI-LA" by the Champs

Mike's Latina Musica Addition

Da na na na na na na TEQUILA

Russell's Latina Musica Addition (provided via his son Mike)

"I'm Your Dirty Mexican" by Hector Saldaña

Karen's Latina Musica Addition

"Oye Como Va".....Santana is another fave!

Jan's Latina Musica Addition

"White Bird" by the It's A Beautiful Day

" DIITTO TO YOUR LIST MS. DI, EXCEPT TO ADD ‘WHITE BIRD”: (EN ESPANOL)"

Naomi's Mexican Music Favorites

1. All of Diana's music & memories from our days gone by of Ensenada trips

2. Cielito Lindo

3. Amor

4. Nosotros

5. Amapola

6.Besame Mucho

7. Guantanamera

8. El Rancho Grande

9. Malaguena

10. Perifidia

"..that's it! Can't recall anymore...mind's going! This time next week, we'll be in MEXICO!! OLE!

Thank you, Mahalo, Gracias! For doing all this for us.. I've experienced so much with you. LOVE IT! "

Photo provided by Mike Cobb

ITunes-UTunes-We All Tunes!

Well I asked you all about your favorite reading material...NOW for those bringing their tunes..oh you know those MP3, itune library in laptop, iphone, ipad, itouch, ay-ya-ya-ya-ay...oh my!

So what is your favorite music and singer(s)? What are you planning to bring in your playlist or gizmo machine....Name that musical singer and share away.... let's go for a list of no more then 10?

Here's mine..

DIANA's Album Choices - Top Ten Singers (not in order)

1. Michael Buble - "It's Time" & "Caught in the Act"

2. Barbara Streisand - "Memories" & "Emotions"

3. Kenny Chesney - " Be As You Are"

4. Andrea Bocelli - "Amore" & "Romanza"

5. Tommy Castro - "Right as Rain" & 'Exception to the Rule"

6. Tony Bennett - "Duet-An American Classic"

7. Patty Austin - "The Ultimate Collection"

8. Gloria Estefan - "Greatest Hits" & "Christmas Through Your Eyes"

9. Michael McDonald - "Motown"

10. Wave Aid - Various Artists from Smooth Jazz

Mike C's Music Selection

1.Sex Pistols

2. Fear

3. Dead Kennedys

4. Surf Punks

5. Black Flag

6. TSOL

7. PIL

8. Agent Orange

9. Social Distortion

& 10. Michael Bolton

Karen's Music Selection

1. Country

2. Classical - Pavaratti & Bocelli

3. R&B

4. Smooth Jazz

5. Hawaiian

6. Rock

Okay...I'm more partial to Country these days (my aging ears can actually understand some of the words), but you will find Classical, R&B, Smooth Jazz, Country, Hawaiian, Pavaratti and Bocelli, plus Rock from several eras.....but no complete albums. I mix and match the singles cuz I'm too cheap to buy the whole album ;-)

Alex's Music Selection

1.Gypsy Kings

2. Andrea Bocelli

3. 50's songs

4. 70's Disco (go Donna Summer!)

5. Tango

6. Brazilian

7. Favorite Jazz

8. Europa (makes my skin tingle)

9.

....actually most anything with saxophone will do that.

Jim's Music Selection

Country Music, Definitely!!!

No other musical genre captures the heartfelt emotions of life, love, joy, pain, and despair...and the beauty of the English language like a good country song. Just consider the following examples...Pure Poetry!

1. Were You Born an Asshole (or did you work at it your whole life)?

2. At the Gas Station of Love, I Got the Self Service Pump

3. I Don't Know Whether to Kill Myself or Go Bowling

4. Although You're Thirty, I Still Think You're Purty

5. From the Gutter to You Ain't Up

6. How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away?

7. I Don't Want You're Body If Your Heart's Not In It

8. I Still Miss You Baby, But My Aim's Getting Better

9. I'm So Miserable Without You It's Almost Like Having You Here

10. You Can't Have Your Kate and Edith, Too

11. If You Won't Leave Me Alone, I'll Find Someone Who Will

12. Tennis Must Be Your Racket 'Cause "Love" Means Nothin' To You

Jan's Music selection

I enjoy the following, “even though I can’t find my ipod after moving our homes...ugh!”

1. Country- the best

2. Smooth Jazz

3. R&B

4. Classic Rock, various eras

5. Sinatra, Cole, Streisand, Bennett, et.al.

6. Various Latin Jazz ex: Santana, Poncho Sanchez

7. Bon Jovi

8. Ottmar Liebert

9. Kenny G types
And finally number 10 …the “Coup de Gras” various renditions from Jim Berkson’s Pedal Steel Guitar ! ("Ear Ache")

Photo provided by Flickr:AndersLjungberg