My Trip to the Sanderling, Part II--The Massage!

Hello again, it's Sandy here with more information about my great visit to the Sanderling Resort and Spa.  Be sure to read the first installment which describes the property and our room.  Now it's time for my favorite thing--a massage. Since I have been experiencing some shoulder spasms and a really tight neck, I had asked for a "deep tissue" massage, which is a bit more ($10) but in my case well worth it.  I had asked for a 50 minute massage and was impressed the massage therapist didn't spend much of my alloted time talking--actually spending 50 minutes working on my pain.  But let me back up and take it through the experience.

The Spa is located across the street and has very nice views of the Currituck Sound.  The building also houses the indoor heated pool and hot tub, so I knew I would spend a good bit of time there.  Upon entering the building, I was greeted by Ashley, the spa manager at the front desk.  To the left of the reception desk is built in space for bath and spa products, candels, spa clothing and other gal friendly items to purchase and enjoy.  To the right was the manicure, pedicure, and hair salon areas which although seemed busy, were very quiet and serene.  The Sanderling has 9 treatment rooms and once inside one you feel as if you are the only one there.  I was welcomed and led into the ladies dressing room area where I was given a key for my locker which contained a thirsty robe and sandals for my feet.  I appreciated the material of the footware, noticing it could be easily sanitized, which always makes me feel better.  I was then shown the "quiet room" with relaxing couches and chairs as well as a glass container of water with cucumber slices floating in it.  There was a short form to fill out, and I was really getting into the relaxation mode thumbing through a ladies magazine and sipping this theraputic water.

In approximately 8-10 minutes (watches are left in the locker of course) I met my therapist, Jackie.  After asking a few questions, she immediately got to work.  She assured me that she would give my neck and shoulder adequate pressure to relieve my problem, but that I was to immediately tell her if the pressure became too much.  I use massage therapy routinely to manage stress and fibromyalgia, so I know my stuff when I tell you this was a great massage. 

I did not mention the room, so let me back track a bit--it was above standard, well ventilated, and best of all had a view of the Currituck Sound.  The Resort has rooms for couples massage and a screened gazebo for water front massage when the weather permits.  This I definitely have put on my "bucket list" girls, what a super indulgent way to relax away the stress!  They have a complete line of facials and jetted tubs for scented, relaxing soaks.  The only thing I could say negative about the experience was the price is a bit high, considering it was the winter season. 

After the massage, I reversed the process and went back to the quiet room and enjoyed another glass of water and gave myself a few minutes to just breathe.  After checking out at the front desk, I wandered around out back of the spa, checking out the pier, gazebo, and more.  It was warm enough for a leisurely stroll and as usual, these unplanned moments were some of the most relaxing of my visit.  I finally wandered back to my room for a quick nap and when my husband returned from his tennis outing, (Pine Island Tennis Center) we made way back to the spa to use the pool.

The indoor heated pool was an absolute joy.  Glass enclosed, with a gorgeous view,  we really enjoyed working out swimming laps and in my case, treading water.  After about 30-40 minutes in the pool, we made our way to the indoor spa.  What a great way to end a relaxing, but busy day.  Everything in the pool area was immaculate, well stocked, and  "cozy" I guess is the best word to describe what I felt.  I did not see an attendant during our swim and soak, which left me feeling a bit disconcerted.  Somehow I thought someone would be near by, allowing for a point of contact should an accident arise or a problem--maybe that's just my own insecurity speaking?  Since we live only an hour or so from the Outer Banks, we ate dinner at one of our favorite spots and came back to our room exhausted but refreshed too.  A great massage and swim--a wonderful afternoon!

Check back for Part III in my series--having breakfast at the award winning LifeSaving Station Restaurant on property and being given a  personal tour by the Sanderling's Exective Chef, Joshua Hollinger.

More to come!

Remember gals, Relax, Refresh, and Realize Your Worth!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, independent agent for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventure on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com

My Visit to the Sanderling Resort and Spa,Outer Banks, NC ! Part I

WOW! was my first thought when I  entered the "lobby" of the Sanderling on the sunny but cold (40-50) Friday in February.  I had driven by the Sanderling for almost ten years on my way to Corolla, putting it on my to do list every time.  When a group of gals requested information about a long weekend get away there, I decided to was time to make my way to the Outer Banks for an explore.  Now back to the wow! 

I was greeted by a two story staircase that led up to a large seating area complete with couches, chairs, bookcases, fireplace, and two different glorious views.  The Sanderling property is fourteen acres uniquely situated on both sides of Highway 12 with some of the buildings having views of the Currituck Sound and the others looking out onto the ocean.  The registration desk is tucked into the right corner of the lobby so as not to detract from the beautiful symetry of the staircase.  After checking in, I immediately hit one of the porch rocking chairs overlooking the sound--short but sweet--as I was reminded by the nip in the wind it was still February.  I was disappointed that I was not offered concierge services, although there was a sign that said they were available.  As a woman traveling alone (my husband came in that evening), I was in need of help with my bag and laptop case. 

But let's move on, I have a massage to get to!  The North property is perfect for a girls' getaway weekend, with 2 queen beds in each room, so I chose that room type to get the look and feel for my recommendation.  The room was decorated in what I would call "beach chic" with cool and comforting furnishings and linens,  and sea shells, lots of sea shells!.  The private bathroom was well suited for women too--I was instantly in love with the glass enclosed shower.  My hubby has no clue why I was so impressed, but girls you know.  The towels where thick and thirsty and there were two great robes in the closet ready for a cozy evening.  The vanity and mirror were large enough for two women getting on their makeup and doing hair, but two sinks would have been an even better idea.  The certified organic soap, shampoo, and other toiletries were just one more piece of the feel good experience. 

The dresser seemed adequate for two ladies clothing and doubled as the TV table.  The middle section of the bureau held a small frig and room safe.  We need to feel our baubles are going to be safe while we are  walking the beach or dancing the night away right?  The best thing about the room was the deck or porch depending on the floor you were on,  complete with wicker chairs and a built in bench for talking with friends or just communing with the sounds of the beach.  The room we had directly faced a gorgeous looking and sounding waterfall.  There is no more pleasant sound to me than trickling water--I spent some really quieting and restful time there sipping hot tea and listening to the waterfall.  Unfortunately, the North Inn is not handicapped accessible.  While the steps have more than adequate handrails and a good spacing between the steps, (I was fine since this was a "good day" with my silent handicap) the steps were there  making this girl friendly, less expensive part of the property not accessible by people with problems climbing stairs or wheelers. 

We totally enjoyed a small seating area two doors down from our room that shared the gorgeous view of the waterfall, complete with comfortable seating and a fireplace.  Hubby and I sat and propped our feet up near the fire and nibbled complimentary gourmet cookies--I can totally see this property as a honeymoon spot too!  Besdie this cozy couch was a dining table and chairs--great for a snack or family conference.  At one point I did find this area taken over by the maids/waitresses ? for a meal and what appeared to be a break time.  Somehow this was a bit disappointing,  was there not an adequate space for break or dining for the staff?  My husband says I am too picky, maybe so--just reporting my findings, dear readers. 

Soon it was time for my massage.  See the lengths I go to for you my readers?  I'm really taking one for the team here girls.  The Sanderling Spa was across the street on the Sound side and I couldn't wait for the pampering to being!  That ends this installment; check back soon for the rest of the story. 

Gals remember you need to "Relax, Restore, and Realize Your Worth".

And another old adage "If Momma Ain't Happy, Nobody's Happy"

Love you, Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, Independent Agent for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow Sandy's adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser and on her web site www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.   Email Sandy for more information about this or any other of my blog entries! 

The Gentle Art of Listening

Although my blog is technically about women’s travel opportunities, I also like from time to time to comment, ask questions, or make observations that might be beneficial to other women. Some of these observations are common sense that we just need to be reminded of from time to time—travel safety tips for example. Other things I share with my readers are about lessons learned or even grey hairs earned. And these are the blogs that seem to generate the most emails and comments, many of them off the record. For example, I was gratified that my blogs about weight issues during the holidays prompted many of you to write and share your struggles with me. So, with this in mind, here goes a little blog about an important issue; learning to listen.


When a friend confides in me, I consider it an honor and a blessing. I think women are a powerful force, more powerful than we imagine. The sharing of a confidence or concern is something that women do for other women that is so different from sharing with a man; no matter how loving or well intentioned. As I age, I am learning that the art of true listening is a skill I am developing after having done it the wrong way. It’s taking time, and I still don’t have all the answers, but here goes a few things I have learned.

I have always wanted to be supportive of people. But until recently if you tried to share a problem with me, I would listen attentively for a few moments, get the big picture of things and then jump right in—talking, talking, talking. I would immediately offer well intended advice and a plan for correcting the situation if MY ideas and action plan are followed. And often I would blow it with the friend trying to express herself. I want to “fix” things, it’s what I do, but not very helpful at all in a listening situation. Maybe it was my ego, I like to believe not—but everyone loves to hear the sound of their own voice, hey? I really did want to help and I certainly didn’t want to come across as bossy. So what IS good listening?


Most people just want your undivided attention when sharing with you. Making eye contact, a hug if appropriate, and active listening—really getting involved with what they are telling you. No recriminations or judgment during this time either. My favorite saying when a friend begins to chastise herself for a mistake is: “stop talking about my friend that way”. Just that bit of humor dispels the idea that you might be judging. I make soothing noises like “aw”, but I think the main point is stay engaged, continue with eye contact and provide a safe haven for your friend. A safe haven is a priceless gift you can give and by learning the art of gentle listening you will have made a difference to someone in a huge way. And chances are when your time comes to need counsel, she will be there for you too.  Listening is a skill that we may not have been born with, but it can be developed over time.  Good luck with your journey!

Have fun and be sure to visit our webpage.  We have a great new New Orleans escorted tour ready to book!  Email me at sandy@cgta.com to talk about this blog or to ask questions about our upcoming trips!

Sandy, the Diva Cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler,Indpendent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or through her website http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/ 

The Truth Comes Out!

Ok, here it is.  I hate snow, I do, I know that now after our 20 year record accumulation last weekend.  Those of you who know me personally or from my posts--please don't be too disappointed in me.  But it's the truth.  I don't want to play in it, I don't want to ski, and goodness knows I don't want to go where there's a lot of it. 

Now before my friends in the western part of North Carolina start with the hate mail, I love the mountains!  Spring, summer, and fall.  Maggie Valley is a picture postcard, Lake Lure is surely heaven on earth, and Asheville is one of those places that should be on everyone's must see list.  Quaint quilt shops, fresh fruit stands playing mandalin music stand toe to toe with some of the most eclectic and hip spas and restaurants anywhere.  The Blue Ridge Parkway delivers on some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. And of course, it's impossible to mention Asheville and western North Carolina without the Biltmore Estate.  Beyond the mansion itself  there are the gardens, vineyard, dairy, equestrian center, River Bend Farm, estate shopping,  and more.  I have been there in spring, summer, and fall and every season it's a new world to discover.

My next land trip will be to visit the Biltmore Estate and gardens during the Spring tulip and dogwood season--sometime between Apri 1-May 15th. Biltmore gardens We are making plans for a group of ladies (hubbies welcome) to enjoy the experience together.  I don't have everything firmed up yet, your input and questions are welcome.  More details will follow, be sure to follow my blog for more.

So, in summary, yes, I do hate snow; but it's not too bad--I still like hot chocolate!

Happy travels and stay warm!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, an independent representative of Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter:  ladiestravel or email for more informaton about this or any other of her blogs. 

Flashy Red Polish

Don't run off, this will be a very short installment of my blog.  I do have a few questions.  Ok, here goes!

• why is my Santa hat the warmest one in my closet?
• why does the bright red OPI "Christmas Cheer" fingernail polish which looked so sleek and festive last week look so lame now?
• why do the Christmas lights ALWAYS come off the tree all tangled no matter how hard you try?
• why is it I always find the 75% off bows and wrapping paper I bought last year when I am putting the current year's stuff away?

If you have answers to these and any other of the great mysteries of life, drop me a line.  In the meantime,  please let me know if I can help you with any of your travel needs in 2010.  It has been my pleasure to work with some awesome clients in 2009, I thank you for your business and your friendship.  So, ponder these questions and remember whether it's a great gal's getaway, a fantasy honeymoon, or a special Valentine's treat for you and your sweetheart--I am your girl!

Blessings for the new year!

Sandy

Sandy, the divacruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler, an independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or her website http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/.  Email Sandy @Email for Sandy 

Things Your Burglar Doesn't Want You to Know!

Whether you travel near or far to visit friends and family; by car, train, plane, bus or boat, there's always an aspect that I like to remind my travel clients about--safety.  I, like most travel professionals, am a big supporter of Travel Insurance for my people to protect them in a variety of ways.  But one issue I don't talk about enough and plan to add to my web site for 2010 is safety for the home while traveling.  No one wants to return from a quick trip to grandma's or a 2 week exotic cruise to find their home broken into or vandalized.  The following list is not mine, but it has made the rounds of my email at least twice, so I am putting it out there for you to think about and heed.  An ounce of prevention, preparation and planning could really be worth a pound of cure.


THINGS YOUR BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:



1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... And taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.

6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)

10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

11. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.

12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.

13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com..)



8 MORE THINGS A BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:
1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.

3. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.

4. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

5. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.

6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.

7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.

8.. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.


Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky ; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.



Happy and SAFE traveling!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, an independent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on her website at http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/ or on Twitter @thedivacruiser. 

A Christmas Carb Carole-Traveling Through the Past, Present and Future

Whether you like the story of Scrooge and his journeys with the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future in the newest 3-D version, or you prefer the black and white presentation or something in between; everyone is familier with the tale.  The old crumengeon goes on a journey of exploration and an emotional roller coaster ride in one night that will leave him changed forever in the process. 

While not so dramatic, I have been on a similar journey of exploration the past few months about an issue that has long been part of my life and so intertwined with memories of Christmas that I always approach the holidays with a tiny bit of dread.  The issue is weight--getting it off, keeping it off, what to eat, when to eat, how to keep from eating--and the holiday scene only intensifies things. I can't honestly remember a Christmas or any other situation where I felt "thin" enough.  I look back at pictures of myself and think: "gee, you looked cute in that outfit", or "boy you were thin then".  At the time, well, as I said, I have never felt thin enough. Emotions aside, here are the facts, a good place to start.  And after years of fighting and fretting, I have come to terms with these facts.

I am almost 6 feet tall.  Most of my family is tall.  While is was a pain in the 4th grade, it's a joy now.  But being 6 feet tall, I can forget about weighting 103 lbs.  It's not going to happen.

I am on the flirty side of 50.  I don't want to wear a bikini anymore.  I don't want all the maintenance that goes into wearing skimpy clothes.  I am perfectly content to look decent in a one piece--as long as small children don't point and stare and old folks don't clutch their hearts and cry out in horror, well, I am cool.

I have been taking Prednisone for 25 years to control a serious illness.  And luckily, it does control it and I have been blessed with 25 years of a marvelous life I might not have had without this drug.  Unforunately, it is directly linked to weight gain, fluid retention, increase in appetite--well enough said--you get the drift. 

So, how to bring the facts of the situation and the fantasy in my head together into a manageable plan for the holidays?  Here's my plan, feel free to copy it if you like.

• Since carbs are a problem for me, I will look over the options, select my favorite, have a comfortable, reasonable amount and savor it without any guilt or remorse
• I will take small bites and put my fork down between bites
• I will chew, chew, chew before swallowing
• I will talk between bites of food--engage my family in conversation
• I will slow down the eating process so much that I am still on my first plate when seconds are being consumed
• I will thorougly enjoy and savor each meal
• I will remind myself repeatedly that food, while certainly a pleasure is FUEL, nothing more

And most of all, I will remind myself I am thin enough.  I need to lose a few pounds to help with my blood sugar issues and blood pressure issues--BUT right now in this minute at the weight I am right now--I am thin enough!

God bless you to have the best Christmas of all!

Sandy

the divacruiser is actually Sandy Wheeler, an indepenent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on her web site www.SandyWheelerTravel.com and on Twitter @thedivacruiser