Exotic Flowers in Boston

Oh God, say it isn’t true?  There’s another school vacation coming up?!  Weren’t the kiddies just out for the holiday break, clamoring around the house, bouncing off the walls, frantic to be entertained every second of the day and now they’ll be let out again!  

If you’re anything like me, I’m a mom who loves her children but when it comes to these adorable little weeklong breaks from the classroom, I panic just a bit.  Every other month it seams as though I’m pulling out the activity section of the paper or scrolling down local events on Google searching desperately for something that the three of us can do.  If you’re a family who goes away skiing or flies off to a warm beach, you wont know what I’m talking about but for those of us stuck in the trenches we’re most likely calling “S.O.S.”

Luckily, I’ve recently compiled a list of places and projects that might keep my six-year-old and eleven-year-old boys busy for the duration of their vacation.  New England is tough during this time of year making most activities housebound due to the weather.  Keeping this in mind, with a little research we can make the most of our time.  Don’t worry about horrendous credit card bill statements or empty pocket change in our wallets- where there’s a will there’s a way!  Check out these local family favorites and enjoy February break in a relaxing, anxious free environment.  After all, it is called a vacation so enjoy it!

Places

1. Visit your local library and sign up for their February break programs.  They’re really cool and FREE!
2. Visit the Museum of Science and Aquarium.  

(Don’t forget to grab passes before from your local library!)

3. Trampoline Parks are a great way to burn off energy and luckily, establishments such as Sky Zone and Launch are awesome indoor facilities that provide hours of bouncing entertainment.
4. Go to an art museum-Boston has hundreds!  My favorite places include the Peabody-Essex, De Cordova, Isabella Stewart and Museum of Fine Arts.
5. The Ecotarium in Worcester is having guests inventors show kids their wacky inventions.  Most related activities are free with the price of admission.

Things to Do at Home

1. Get out every art supply you own and let everyone paint, draw or sculpt.
2. Let the kids choose their favorite recipe from a cookbook and have a day whipping up recipes and sweet treats to pass the time.
3. Sledding and Snow Hiking can be a lot of fun if you’re located near the woods.  It’s great exercise and New England is so beautiful during the wintertime.
4. Turn the house into a giant tent by tacking up old sheets and blankets to the furniture.  The children will adore camping while snug and warm in their homes.
5. A Board Game Tournament is wicked fun and will create memories for years to come.  Top games for this include Parcheesi, Sorry, Guess Who and Clue.  

Valentine’s Day is all about hearts, chocolates and flowers but on the years when the holiday falls on either a Friday, Saturday or Sunday (this year the 14th is on a Sunday), Boston couples will be happy to know there are additional options available to say you “I Love You”… to make a huge impression.

Booking a romantic getaway is just the thing to spark the love in a relationship and lucky for us, there are plenty of great places that are in close proximity to the city. Without having the nuisance of traveling by plane, those wanting to escape for a couple of days can find the perfect hotel or inn that best suits you and your honey’s tastes.  Whether your interests lie in the country where you can enjoy romantic walks in the woods or a more urban approach of sipping martinis inside of a fancy nightclub, Boston has an extensive variety of places to choose from!  Many hotels will also offer package deals, which may include couple’s massages, champagne brunch or complimentary roses.  So if you’re interested in adding a bit more spice to the festivities this Valentine’s Day, visit these sensational locations to celebrate the day of love in style!

Lake Salem Inn, Derby, Vermont

Not only do the rooms have a magnificent view of Lake Champlain but visitors will also get treated for a romantic dinner for two, spa treatments and complimentary flowers. Oh, and make sure you try the Champlain chocolates-they’re delicious!

Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa, Stowe, Vt.

I’ve stayed here before and boy did we have a great time appreciating the gorgeous mountain landscape as well as their indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, spa, salon, restaurants and game room!  The hotel is affordable as well as an easy trip back to the city.

The Eastland Park Hotel, Portland, Maine

This is a great deal. You get breakfast in bed, truffles and a free set of pajamas for you and your sweetheart!

XV Beacon Hotel, Boston, MA

This hotel is featuring two special deals this year, which both offer an incredibly menu of romantic enticing.  Breakfast in bed, late check out times, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, rose petal bed turndowns and a warm fireplace right in the room are all a part of the inspiring possibilities for couples.   

The Chinese New Year begins on February 8th, the beginning of the Chinese calendar that is also referred to as the “Spring Festival”.  The date marks the start of the new lunar schedule as well as the reunion of family and friends to gather together at their homes the eve before.  The traditional meal served at this time is actually called Reunion Dinner, which kicks off the celebratory festival.  Typically red envelopes are given with cash as the whole house is decorated in similar colors to symbolize the hope of “wealth”, “happiness” and “good fortune”.  In order to encourage good luck to the family, a massive cleaning of the home takes place, ridding the space of dirt and other unhealthy essences.  Once the family is content that the abode is unblemished and cleansed thoroughly, it is the belief that luck will soon find its way through the doors.  

Every New Year is dedicated to a specific animal, known to hold particular characteristics and fortunes for anyone born within the particular twelve-month segment.   2016 has been deemed the “Year of the Monkey” including the years 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992 and 2004.  If you have been born into this category, it’s a pretty safe bet that you are intelligent, curious, witty and a bit mischievous which can sometimes get you into a bit of trouble.  Your magnetic personality offsets this flaw because monkeys are often energetic, clever and creative although clumsiness is another trait most possess.  Due to your intellect, great jobs for you include banking and accounting but try to find a job closer to the city since it is also likely that you prefer urban living to the countryside.

Here’s what else you should look out for during the Chinese New Year of the Monkey!

Luck Days:  14th and 28th

Lucky Numbers:  9 and 4

Favorite Flowers:  Chrysanthemums, crape-myrtle

Best Colors:  Gold, White and Blue  

Best Advice:  Focus on your health this year and remember to take a vacation.  

Worst Advice:  Don’t take greedy risks or illegal advances where money is    concerned.  You’re going to get caught!

Best Love Match:  Rabbit/Ox

Worst Love Match:  Pig/Tiger

Valentine’s Day is February 14th, the most popular day of the year to send flowers to loved ones.  It’s also the time when many people choose to reveal their feelings for a special someone, which makes sense since it is the holiday dedicated for “L-O-V-E”.  This can add a lot of pressure to those poor guys and gals who aren’t quite sure how to put their sentiments into words since there has to be a card attached to the arrangements sent by florists.  What is the right thing to write when you’re in this sticky situation?

Well, it depends largely on what the circumstances are.  After all, you wouldn’t want to send a card that wasn’t appropriate because saying too little or saying too much can blow your chances in a heartbeat.  You have to be clever and creative when finding the correct words for Valentine’s Day, focusing on tailoring the message for that specific person.  If you’re stumped for ideas and are at a loss for words, here are a few funny, romantic, sweet and even poetic phrases to woo your love interest this Valentine’s Day!

Funny

1. Meh…You’ll Do…
2. I Love You More Than Pizza….
3. I Way OveLay Ouyay!
4. Flowers today. Fireworks tonight!
5. Cupid's aim is still pretty good.

Romantic

1. I send a kiss inside the petals of each rose...
2. Thank you for filling my life with love.
3. If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden.
4. Just because you’re amazing!
5. Meeting you was fate, becoming your friend was a choice, but falling in love with you was beyond my control.

Sweet

1. Your face lights up my world.
2. I discovered true happiness the day you walked into my life.
3. Thank you for coming into my life... I will love you now and forever!
4. Have a beautiful day. I'll have one just thinking of you.
5. You are in my thoughts, you are in my dreams, and You are in my heart!

Poetic

1. I bet you a cuddle, I bet you a kiss, I bet you'll never guess, who sent you this?
2. Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue, My Favorite Valentine is You!
3. Roses are red, violets are blue, carnations are sweet, and so are you!
4. A hundred hearts would be too few, to carry all my love for you.
5. Even in a fairy tale where every dream comes true, I could never hope to   find a husband/wife as sweet as you.

The fashion world is getting a fresh taste of inspiration in 2016 and it doesn’t include a designer’s variation in fabrics.  Flowers of every variety and dimension are hitting the runway, featured in some of the most elite fashion events of the year.  Around the world, florists are becoming involved within this competitive industry where they are showing innovative techniques and presentations with the use of imported product.  Orchids, roses, willow, and an eclectic multitude of tropical leaves are being sewn, glued and stapled onto dresses, blazers, hats, pants, skirts, shirts and more!  Contributing a breathtaking flare and contemporary vision, models are strutting these striking concoctions adorned with lavish blossoms everywhere from New York to Paris.  According to reviews, the floral fascination is making a splash and is leaving their audiences in awe.  

photo credit: franzgrabe.co.za/

Is this a fleeting trend?

A hoax?

photo credit: architecturaldigest.com

A desperate attempt to re-infuse clothing with personality and intrigue?

I don’t think so…  Talented designers are making serious headway by creating fashion forward ideas that will revolutionize what is shown on the cover of magazines and storefront windows.   Flowers have asserted themselves as being the new vogue when it comes to clothing and judging by these pictures, there’s no questioning why.  Take a look at these popular new looks and ask yourself if you see yourself dripping in daisies the next time you plan on attending a function!

Valentine’s Day is on Sunday, February 14th and there are millions of happy couples that are already planning their romantic getaways (it’s a long weekend by the way).  But for millions of other people, this holiday can be a real downer because the truth is-not everyone is involved in a lovey dovey relationship!  For those who find themselves in the thick of this category, you may not want to reminded by the bombardment of heart shaped cards, chocolates and roses being gifted to seemingly everyone but you.  It’s depressing, frustrating and flat out obnoxious to feel the emotions of being left out of an entire holiday based on whether you have a significant other on a single day of the calendar.

That’s why I’ve decided to change my annual “Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Movie Pick List” to the “Funniest Valentine’s Day Flicks”.  That’s right!  I’m throwing out the tear jerking, steamy, love affair scenes for a more entertaining look at what really goes on between most couples.  Seriously, have you ever honestly been able to put yourself in the place of the characters in “The Notebook”, “Sleepless in Seattle or “Love Actually”?  Did you know that even the movie, “Titanic” is listed as one of the top most romantic movies of all time?  How about “Legend’s of the Fall”?  Have you seen that one where the women are fighting over hunky cowboys like Brad Pitt and making love in barns and haystacks?  Come on!  Let’s get real here people… It’s time to throw out some of the fru-fru fantasy and pop in a DVD that we can at least somehow relate to!

So here’s what I’m advertising this year for Valentine’s Day flicks-movies that are comical, embarrassing, awkward and undeniably enjoyable.  These are for those who are married, divorced, coupled, single or anybody who simply doesn’t want to celebrate this year’s holiday covered completely in romantic sap.  

Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it and you don’t want to greet your sweetheart empty handed like you did last year.  As some of us may be forgetful about the holiday that occurs every February 14th, it’s helpful to have a reminder along with some quick gift suggestions.  Depending on whom you are planning to woo, Valentine’s Day presents should be suitable for their personality and character.   Gifts can be separated into all sorts of categories but for this purpose we’ll use the top five themes with the top five gifts to keep things simple; traditional, romantic, funny, cost efficient and of course- sexy.  Within each one of these segments, you’re bound to find the perfect something for your girlfriend that is just right for her! Try out these items that are sure to leave her bubbled over with love this holiday…

Traditional

1. Box of Chocolate
2. A Dozen Red Roses
3. A Bottle of Wine
4. Perfume  
5.  Jewelry

Romantic

1. Scented Candles
2. Her Favorite Romantic Comedy on DVD
3. Dinner at her Favorite Restaurant
4. A Weekend Getaway
5. “Why I Love You” Diary/Journal

Funny

1. “Your Side My Side” Pillowcases
2. Fuzzy Bedroom Slippers
3. A Chocolate Game Controller
4. Mug That Says “I Love You More Than Coffee”
5. Condoms

Cost Efficient (Cheap)

1. A Single Red Rose
2. “Reasons Why I Love You” Message in a Bottle
3. A Teddy Bear
4. Handmade Coupon Book with Favors for your Sweetheart
5. Her Favorite Lipstick

l

Sexy

1. Lingerie
2. Kama Sutra Book
3.  Silk Robe/Pajamas
4. Bath and Body Gift Set
5. Feed her a Favorite Meal Blindfolded

I bet you didn’t know that because we live in Boston, we have access to some of the finest florists in the world!  Complete with their own sense of style and flair, Boston is ranked one of the top twenty best performing floral designers across the globe.   

I bet you didn’t know that each region has their own unique way of floral designing, making their pieces distinct and unique.  Really, it’s true!

Each designer has their own influence on how they manipulate color, texture and size and it’s mainly due to the specific geographic location where he or she has learned their talents!  For instance, Boston is pretty conservative when it comes to floral presentation but we also enjoy constant change in varieties mainly due to the fact that we experience a varying four-season climate.  Another fact about our area’s likes and dislikes are that we have an inherent taste for blending shades instead of separate color tones.  Even all white wedding work commonly has a pinch of peach or green added to create a richer balance.  

Are you curious about what other worldwide florists are designing?  Take a look at these nationally acclaimed floral industry masters and compare them to see where your taste truly lies.  You might be surprised where you find the answer!

photo credit: weddingsitaly.com

Italian Fiori

Italian floral arrangements are influenced largely by the Tuscany theme, which relies heavily on wildflowers and species representative of this region’s infamous product, grapes.  The essence usually revolves around romantic and sensual aspects, often cultivating opulent palettes of gem tones.  Historically, Romans often offered poppies to the gods as a gift making them to this day a popular addition to many    Italian bouquets.  

photo credit: Jeff Leatham    

French Fleurs

French floral design is without a doubt, some of the most beautiful work the world has ever seen.  The reason why is because regional designers have an eclectic style that stretches from single color clumping to erratic spectrums, incorporating bright shades of blues, yellows and oranges.  Popular flowers used are (of course) native to the area’s agriculture, including French iris, tulips, ranunculus and my favorite, French roses.  

       Japanese Hana

The Japanese style focuses on constructing intricate and contemporary designs that depend on architectural shape and balance.   Many experts deem this method as “cutting edge” within the industry and are impressed by the ability to break free from traditional pieces.  Often, floral centerpieces are looked upon as more than simply adding stems to a vase but viewed as “true art” because of the sophisticated techniques and creativity utilized.  While orchids still remain as one of the top ten varieties used in the culture’s floral décor, other species such as gerbera daisies, delphinium and hydrangea are also highly requested.

If you’re wondering what’s in store for the New Year, you’re in luck because it turns out 2016 is going to be a doozy!  The forecast calls for extended heights of energy, dramatic romances and massive changes within the career realm.  Let’s not forget the financial segment, which also looks like an interesting area for many of you…

So if you think you might be buying that new car or signing your first mortgage for that house in the country, you might want to take a look at this before you make any serious decisions.  No, the horoscope can’t predict exact events, but it can certainly steer you in the right direction!  Here’s what’s in store for you and hope you all have a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Aries

March 21 - April 19

You’re an active soul who typically doesn’t take no for an answer!  You’re high energy will be extra stimulating for others as it helps you to complete tasks (both at home and at work) even faster than usual.  Keep an eye out for financial opportunities suggested by a “slickster” because most likely, it’s too good to be true.

Taurus

April 20 - May 20

You’re general stubbornness might pay off this year because there are going to be a many different choices coming your way that will instigate a dramatic change.  Be careful what way you opt to go, taking special concern for your natural suspicion towards “get rich quick” schemes.  

Gemini

May 21 - June 20

This might be the year where you should bite the bullet and go back to school!  Whether it’s for a high school diploma or your PHD, the signs say you’ll need that certificate for an upcoming venture.  Making decisions is a tough area for you so stop thinking about the pros and cons and just do it!

Cancer

June 21 - July 22

2016 is going to be a little challenging for your inherent intensity because it looks like things are for once, going to stay calm and steady.  Although there’s no real surge in career development or financial gain/loss, you’re going to be happy and relaxed for a change.  Enjoy it because you never know what will happen in 2017!

Leo

July 23 - August 22

You’re kindness and warmth makes people gravitate towards you, making this year an especially active year within social circles!  Be on guard for someone in the month of May who might want to take advantage of your generosity, though.  Forecasting predicts that this person will be apt to empty your wallet…

Virgo

August 23 - September 22

It’s time to open up that business you’ve always dreamed of!  Due to your intelligence and yearning to research thoroughly before doing anything, the stars say 2016 is the year to launch your endeavor!   Your practicality and strong sense of the market will guide you through a very successful first year.

Libra

September 23 - October 22

Something long ago tainted your trust towards a person or company but you being a Libra, you’ll love the fact that justice will soon be served!  During the latter end of the year, information will surface allowing you to see the whole picture, as you previously believed it was.  You love being right and you’ll enjoy how the story unravels. Balance is the key, so let it go once its over.  Life’s too short!

Scorpio

October 23 - November 21

It’s time to search the property sections of your newspaper because soon you will be a homeowner!  If you’re not looking to buy, re-location seems to be the right thing for you to do as well as go back packing through the mountains.  New adventures and experiences lay ahead so go forth and immerse yourself in this exciting new time!

Sagittarius

November 22 - December 21

Sometimes a great year means a stable year.  To have the simplistic qualities of life that you adore can be gift enough alone from 2016.  Like others, this is going to be a year that bestows an easy ride for you and your family making flexibility a lot more efficient and effective.  Health issues that may have seemed bleak in the past also come around with a more positive diagnosis.  Looks like you’re taking a break from stress in the upcoming calendar!

Capricorn

December 22 - January 19

You know that new job that you didn’t think you had a shot at getting?  Well now’s your time to rev up your business engines because there’s an opportunity to rise higher than you ever imagined in the working world!  Make sure you are well prepared for the interview and research the requirements as much as you can beforehand.  There’s no need to say “good luck”-you deserve it!

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

Since you belong to the realm of water, you might want to visit the beach or lake as much as possible this year and not just in the summer.  There will be some stressful encounters in the beginning of the year but once they have passed-its smooth sailing.  Photography seems like the hobby to best suit these changes so go try it out in 2016!

Pisces

February 19 - March 20

Art is wrapping around you so if you’ve always wanted to join that paint class or learn how to model clay- now’s the time to do it.  Romance is also a strong possibility so be on the lookout during the month of November.  They might not seem like your perfect match in the beginning but soon you’ll see that opposites attract.  There’s someone special coming your way!

On January 18th, 2016, we will celebrate Martin Luther King Day, a holiday dedicated to remembering his nonviolent peace movements in the quest for equality.  Observed to honor his birthday, (which really lies on January 15th ) President Ronald Reagan signed the bill making it an official holiday on November 2nd , 1983.  The country will hold several reenactments of the reverend’s famous speech, “I Have a Dream” as well as thousands of Americans gathering in the place where a piece of his memory is held dearly.  

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site honors King’s life work in spreading the idealism of peace throughout the country.  Along with precious artifacts and mementos of the hero’s lineage kept inside the museum, a second tribute marks the sanction, displaying a beautiful garden holding 185 varieties of roses at the visitor’s entrance.  The stunning presentation is one of the “International World Peace Rose Gardens” containing thousands of blossoms with eclectic colors and aromas.  Structured in a design similar to a starburst, the beds are planted entirely with roses, the United States official flower.  Landscaped in the month of March in 1992, the garden is visited by millions of people wanting to learn and pay homage to the man who spent his life crusading for a nonviolent world.  Dr King and his wife are also buried close by.

The configuration of the design and the varieties that grow within King’s International World Peace Rose Garden hold specific significance.  The starburst shape was created to mirror his brilliance and ambition of unity throughout mankind.  The plush pink roses in the center are symbolic for his wife who continued her husband’s teachings for years after his death.  The red band of roses that swerves in and out of the circle represents African Americans and their contributions made to the world and the white blooms are banded around the ring to exemplify King’s similarity with Ghandi within their peace movements.   The splash of multi-shaded roses placed within clumps is reminiscent of the world filled with a beautiful array of different cultures and ethnicities.  The assortment of several tints and color tones also represents King’s vision that peace should run throughout the world for eternity.   The garden is said to be one of the most powerful displays created in Martin Luther King’s memory and remains the number one site to honor and remember him by.