Heard of Deepak Chopra?

I know it sounds like I'm on a 'Drum Roll' lately!

I AM! :)

The universal energy rose to meet me as I explored this new land of drumming. So far, it has been quite an experience.

I must tell you about last night!!!!!!

My husband, Frank, never heard of Deepak Chopra -- so, he wasn't at all impressed by my inclusion in the event last night. I was, however.

And, I'm sure you are too, right? :)

Yes, Deepak Chopra's Annual Event held at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club is taking place right now here in our little community, and I was there!!!!!

They have entertainment hour each night for the participants of the seminar. Last night it was a Drum Circle.

Lucky me had been in contact with Jana of Drum Magic out of Tampa.

Wouldn't you know, DrumMagic was the chosen entertainment for last night. Jana uses local 'talent/drummers' for her travel events and asked me if I would help her out. That answer required no thought at all......................'YES!'

Jana was accompanied by Christian, a wonderful drummer and performer locally; Amber, who assisted her in the center circle. Jim, another local drummer, was the photographer for the evening, and I was the Greeter/Drummer/Participant in the most fantastic drum circle ever.

Held in the Ballroom at PVIC -- over 100 people experienced a DrumMagic drum circle.

Before the 1 hour event was complete -- they were all drumming and dancing. Jana's ability to teach quickly and get everyone involved immediately worked fabulously. We all sang, danced, and enjoyed sharing the rhythm of the drum.

'A uniting experience,' as one of the participants shared.

I can't wait to be a 'helper' again. Thanks Jana.

www.drummagic.com - Jana Broder at Drum Magic

janabroder@drummagic.net

Christian Sun's email: cacodd@hotmail.com

Amber Hall's email: pamelahall21@gmail.com

Jim's email: boris601203@yahoo.com

We've Got Music..... We've Got Rhythm.....

We gathered, we heard, and we drummed!

Nine women joined together Monday night to become acquainted with the drumming Rhythms of the World.

In preparation for the Women's Drum Circle beginning Sunday, October 11, 2009 in Jax Beach and held on the lawn of the Renaissance Healing Center, (http://www.renaissancehealingcenter.com/) I held a Basic Drum Lesson Session for those women who expressed an interest in learning a bit about drumming prior to the start of the Circle.


We had a great time using Christine Stevens, Healing Drum Kit CDs exploring the Rhythms of Life, Spirit, and the World. (www.ubdrumcircles.com)


The energy and music emanating and swirling about our circle, lifted us up, up, and away. Away from the pressures of daily life, away from individual stresses, away from health issues, and into a world of rhythm, movement, and spiritual connectedness.

This night we experienced The Rhythms of Life - Walking, Skipping, Heartbeat, Laughing, Resting, etc. AND The Rhythms of the World -- We traveled from Japan to India, From Africa to Cuba and we danced in the parades playing many world rhythms including the Samba and the Rumba. Oh, what a night!


As the drum beats slowed and the rhythm became softer and the evening came to a close, we all knew we wanted to gather again, drum even more, and share in this wonderful experience.



My dear husband, Frank, returned to a house with the walls expanding with music and beaming with the energy of this group of women -- I believe he is proud of all of us and secretly wished it was open to men :) ! He snapped a few of these pictures so we could capture the moment visually. Thanks Babe! We are all marching to our own drum beat! Join us!



Our group consisted of Barbara King-Hall, Donna Christensen, Rudell Kopp, Mary Howell, Francine Smith, Lynn Curtain, Bonita Sheffield, Abby Vega, and little ole me!


Be sure to join us (no experience necessary) at the first 10/11/09 Women's Drum Circle. See right column of blog for more information or just give me a call 904-334-5290.

Remember, we all have rhythm. The Mother of All Rhythms - the heartbeat.

If you have a heartbeat, you have rhythm. Keep it going.

Have an 'upbeat' day everyone!

http://www.renaissancehealtingcenter..com/

http://www.marilynsonthemove.blogspot.com/

http://www.ubdrumcircles.com/

http://www.remo.com/

They Pulled Out The Stops!

Yes - Players by the Sea in Jacksonville Beach - 'pulled out all the stops' for 'HAIR'.....the tribal love rock musical of the 60's.


On stage for the first time on broadway -- 1967 -- scandalous :O...and still is :)!

One of our most enjoyable productions......Saturday night -

the performance of 'HAIR.'

The talent, the voices, the creativity amidst the performers, the backstage, the front stage, the upstage. A mystical and very nostalgic visit to the 'Age of Aquarius' 60's and 70's.

Livng in San Francisco and then Key West, Florida during that period of time -- I was a Flower Child myself.....and really felt the throw-back to those times. Good Morning Star Shine!'

The staff and crowd (including Nikki and Richie) were decked out in their 'hippie-finest' -- the stage was tie-dyed; the walls were filled with Love and Peace Graffitti that we all could add to with big chunks of chalks.

Our faces were painted, flowers were passed out to the crowd -- all just the beginning of the interactcive play we were about to see.


As the actors took us back and through those times again -- they also played with us -- danced with us -- and jostled our memories until they succeeded in getting us 'out of the box' and Let the Sunshine In.

Thank you Players for that 'trip' back to the days of "The Hippie Life."

What a great time ...................... we even could buy a 'self tie-dying TShirt -- Wow! How easy is it now? :)

For sure, 'I Believe in Love.'

Links:

Players: http://www.playersbythesea.org/

Nikki:

www.MagiCardReadings.com
www.NikiLaMont.com

DRUMMING GATHERING - FOR ALL

PLEASE JOIN ME FOR THIS FUN AND

INTERACTIVE RHYTHM GATHERING!!!!!

The Joy of Poetry and Rhythm

*A Drumming Gathering*

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

6:30-8:30PM

*************************

No experience necessary!

Learn and experience ……The joy of blending sounds, rhythm, and movement.

Dean Allan Slickis and Marilyn Wilson

Present

The 1st Seasonal Gathering and Drum Circle

$25.00 per person


To be held at the beautiful natural surroundings of
Palm Valley Gardens (http://www.palmvalleygarden.com/)
4975 Palm Valley Road (Hwy 210) – 1 mile from A1A South

RSVP today as space is limited.
CALL TODAY For RSVP and additional details, directions, or questions

Marilyn Wilson 904-334-5290, mawilson1@comcast.net

Dean Allan Slickis 904.333.4346; dean.slickis@gmail.com

This is.........
Your opportunity to align with nature and enjoy!

‘Creating and sharing within the Divine connection will always lead us to a
clearer vision of who we are and our path...we need only listen.’

This enlightening and insightful workshop experience, will include education in native drumming, meditation, movement, and a connection to a higher self in the ‘most beautiful natural environment at the beaches.’ An opportunity to align with nature and enjoy!

Three Day Weekends Are The Best!

A nice twist to the 4th of July. Friday kicking off the weekend. It was perfect!

4 nights and 3 days of fun and sun!

Thursday night kicked off a night of music at Sawgrass; then; a night of good food, good friends, some family, and good eats; add another night of friends, parades, and fireworks; and a final night of 'drumming and the full moon.'

At the foot of our street - we watched the Golf Cart Parade! What a hoot! Beads, candy, and coins were thrown to the loyal neighbors sitting along side the main road around Sawgrass. Fun way to start the morning.

A great evening of fireworks with the "Kuhns" group!

Then -- the 4th of 6 swimming lessons for Frank's grandchildren -- Alex and Savannah. The little mermaid and the shark -- 2 more lessons and they'll be experts and ready for the swim team.

Then a wonderful finale in Jax Beach -- drumming with Debbie Young's group and enjoying the full moon and new friends.

Perfect! Even the expression on Frank's face was Perfect! :)

I would say that was almost a perfect weekend. The only things missing were all my kids and grandkids -- all enjoying the weekend in different spaces and different places. Such is life this year!

My Kind of Yoga!

OHMMMMMMMM............

Who could turn down an opportunity to relax in the park in Atlantic Beach?

These wonderfully relaxed people (and kitty) are experiencing the benefits of their Yoga Class during the Savasana (relaxation) portion of this outdoor yoga session.

Savasana is when your body takes in all the benefits and healing energy derived from the different poses performed. Complete relaxation and joy.

My friend, Lucy Lynch, teaches this lovely class and here are the details:

Every Sunday

9:30AM - 11 AM

Johanson Park, Atlantic Beach

Seminole Road just past Selva Marina Entrance

Under the Trees

Donation or Investment in Self - $5-$10 only per class

For more information email Lucy at mailto:yogarise@gmail.com or call Lucy at 716-6884.

The Gangs All Here!

There are typical ways to celebrate local establishment's anniversaries; then there are the celebratory ways of RAGTIME TAVERN in Atlantic Beach and their 'gang' of LOYAL FOLLOWERS!



In this day and time, celebrating a 26th anniversary is pretty special; and RAGTIME knew it!



SO.......Last night, June 30, 2009, the local beaches community turned out to help RAGTIME celebrate their 26th anniverary.

With a cake the size of a table top AND the 'best' band - Cloud 9 - the crowd was very happy and

feeling young!


Frank and I are just a few of the loyal followers of Ragtime and Cloud 9 along with almost everyone else we know, like Paula and Brenda - including fans from the Westside of Jacksonville, like Cheryl, and Rickie (with Diana), who came all this way to enjoy the evening too.




When the Old Gang turns out, we know there are a mix of memories that each one shares personally -- some have been coming to Ragtime since it opened and have their special seat by the door; some are just hanging out enjoying the scene; and others feel like it's just another day in Paradise!



Either way, it was good to see everyone, like Larry, Chuck, Diana, and Chris and get updated on the latest -- even a beautiful engagement ring was displayed this evening -- congrats Steve and Cathy!



Cloud 9 kept the dance floor busy, as usual and even saluted Michael Jackson with a Moon Walk performance and playing his songs. Fun times!


Thanks RAGTIME for sticking around and doing it right!

HAPPY 26TH ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!!!

Who's Your Daddy?

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!

Whether it's father's, father's-in-law, grandfather's, or stepfather's, this man fills the bill! It ain't easy being all these rolls, but he carries it off with a smile, a jig, and lots of love.

My husband, Frank, enjoyed a mixed Father's Day today. We started with my daughter, Jenna, (the stepdaughter) coming by to get the party going.

We met Frank's daughter, Patrice, and her family, Chase (son-in-law), Alex (grandson) and Savannah (granddaughter), at Pusser's Restaurant in Ponte Vedra Beach (The Place for our Special Occasions) -- so we could celebrate The Men in Our Lives!

Congratulations and Happy Father's Day to Frank and Chase.......'it is the ties that bind that make our lives so full and happy.'

Thanks all!

Mayors...Chairs.....Party.....A Not To Be Missed Event!

Our Beaches Mayors are serving as Honorary Chairs of Beaches Party to benefit the Beaches Women’s Partnership.

Beaches Women’s Partnership’s Annual Seaside Shindig and Beaches Party presented by Medical Partners of America is usually a standing room only event.

Held oceanside each year, the event is beaches casual fun at its best!

This year is proving to be no exception! In addition to a fabulous silent and live auction, the Beaches Women’s Partnership’s event committee has pulled out all of the stops to insure fun from the moment guests arrive. From lobster tossing and putting contests to dancing to the sounds of the Johnston Duo, to honoring Pegine Echevarria as the first "Pearl of the Beaches," there is literally something for everyone.

Joining BWP in honoring her will be Beaches Mayors and this year’s Honorary Co-Chairs Atlantic Beach Mayor John Meserve, Neptune Beach Mayor Harriett Pruette and Jacksonville Beach Mayor Fland Sharp.

The event takes place on Friday, July 17 at 7 p.m. at Casa Marina in Jacksonville Beach.

Tickets are just $75 each and can be purchased by calling (904) 249-1450.

http://www.womenspartnership.org/

Let's Party!

Birthdays.....Birthdays

Seems like June is the month that our family expands and grows.

This year, the 'biggy' was my daughter, Jenna, turning 25!

Not only did her brothers come to visit, but they ALSO MET THE BOYFRIEND!

Turning 25 is big enough without all that going on too -- but we did it!

I decided a TWILIGHT theme would work the best, since black and red are her colors and so are the colors of TWILIGHT black and red.

Here we all are -- celebrating the 25 years in existence. Happy Birthday to Jenna.

BELLA!

Summer Sundays at the Beach

“SUMMER SUNDAYS AT THE BEACH”
...Last minute Runaway can be Fun!

The Casa Marina Hotel and Restaurant is a convenient location for a 1-night Sunday Runaway.

This historic oceanfront hotel offers more than just a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. Planning a quick spontaneous ‘refresher’ runaway is easy to plan.

The Casa invites guests for a 1-night ‘package’ runaway any Sunday (excluding holidays).

Relax and enjoy a fabulous Sunday Brunch for 2, the expansive beach, invitation to the Penthouse for Cocktails for 2 and Continental Breakfast for 2 before checkout.

Located directly on the ocean where guests rise early to watch the radiant morning beach sunrise, guests also end the day upstairs in the Penthouse to savor the last glorious colors of an evening sunset. Cocktails in the Penthouse - a glorious way to enjoy a Sunday.

Summer Sundays at the Beach: ($139)

Check in Sunday (Ocean view Room)
Sunday Brunch for 2 – Casa Marina’s Famous Brunch
Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Sunday afternoon or evening – Welcome Cocktails for 2 in the Penthouse
Monday morning Continental Breakfast for 2

Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant
691 N. 1st Street
Jacksonville Beach, Florida
904-270-0025
http://www.casamarinahotel.com/

Irresistible Brazil!

We went,
We stayed
We enjoyed!

I'm not in the habit of ignoring good 'tips' from Leigh Cort, so when she told me to mark our calendars for May 15 at Tento's, I obliged and decided to drop by last night. (We went!)

Just 'dropping by' Tento's Churrascaria in Jax Beach last night was impossible. Once we walked through the doors, we were met with the charm and hospitality of one of Tento's owners, (gorgeous) Dan. He treated us as if we had entered his home. Dan ushered us in and hovered until we were comfortably seated at the bar and in the hands of the highly competent Tento's staff. (We stayed!)

Leigh, unfortunately,was out of town; but we were soon joined by her husband, Jay Greene, and two other couples Marsha and Craig Myers, Valerie and Daniel Callahan. We were all in for an evening of Brazilian pleasure.

It wasn't long before the voice of Monica da Silva filled the air at Tento's. We were hooked immediately.

Monica, who spent her life criss-crossing the world and different music genres, shared with us her diverse mix of Jazz and Brazilian originals to more upbeat rock and pop style tunes, thus spreading her irrestible music this special night.

While we enjoyed the Brazilian flavors of the variety of meats served by the gauchos and a full salad bar, we were able to chat quietly and enjoy the night. Frequently, we caught ourselves going with the flow of the music moving in the rhythm of Monica's sensual and smoothe music and distinct voice. (We enjoyed!)

If you missed this, Monica will be back at Tento's on July 10!

Thanks Leigh! It was quite a night!
Visit: http://www.tentochurrascaria.com/
http://www.monicadasilva.com/

THE 4 ELEMENTS

EARTH, WATER, FIRE, AND AIR!

When these ladies get together and combine the FOUR ELEMENTS -- creative energy bursts into the air!

Sharon Elliot's Writing Circles have been a mainstay in the Atlantic Beach area for several years now. The women here share their stories, write their truths, and laugh raucously together at each gathering of their Writing Circle.

Tonight, we closed the chapter on the last 3 months, and, eagerly await the next series - One in July and then full force in September.

Our closing night was made especially wonderful by our hostesses, Carolyn Drazien and Barbara King-Hall.

Carolyn hosted the evening at her home in Atlantic Beach allowing all of us a glimpse of her fascinating decorating style and welcoming charm. After all, she is Queen Diva of her Funky Shui Diva Decorating Business, so this was a treat of treats. As co-host, Barbara shared her passion for cuisine as we delighted in a healthy and extraordinarily delish meal.

The nine of us - Carolyn Drazien, Woody Winfree, Sharon Elliot, Donna Christensen, Barbara King-Hall, Diana Otani, Christine Lester, Sharon Qualls, and Me :) certainly had a great and fulfilling evening! Our only one regret -- we missed our 10th lady - Lucy Lynch -- we held her in spirit and know we will all be together again at the next circle series.

We all keep writing, keep sharing, keep laughing, and keep connecting for the women everywhere who hear us!

If you are interested in being a part of the Writing Circles, please let me know or email Sharon Elliot directly at milletday@yahoo.com; and for Funky Shui Divas, the best in decorating expertise, email: rickdraz@yahoo.com.

You, Me, and CARLOS at Johnson Gallery

So much to do and so little time!

I'm glad I made it to the J. Johnson Gallery exhibition of Carlos Betancourt's new work.

As usual, the opening reception was the place to kick off the weekend on Friday night. If you didn't see a friend or an acquaintance that you knew, then, all you had to do was wait awhile, because everyone was there!

The party-girls were obviously out analyzing Carlos' artwork! There's Cindy, Dany, and me! And, of course, my 'hunk of a husband' joined me or shall I say, 'acted as my bodyguard.' :)

Even though Carlos was surrounded by his female entourage, my friend Clyde snagged him for a quick photo-op with me. (Afterall, I do have a local travel and events blog that just MUST write about him.)

Then, and only then, did I have a camera issue. Yes, suddenly, the flash was acting up and 3 photos were snapped and unusable. Yikes! Oh my, what's a girl to do? Focus, woman, focus!!!!!!

With my anxiety building and Carlos quickly getting dragged away by another group, I began pushing buttons on the camera. Then, right before I was awash with complete panic of loosing this fleeting opportunity, I saw the light!!!! Yes, the flash worked! Snap - got it! Carlos, me, and Mary Jean!

Now, I have proof ..... I was right there beside the very talented, famous, and extremely patient, Carlos Betancourt! I understand why his photo scenes are absolutely 'the best' -- Carlos has the patience and tolerance to get it right and knows it makes the difference.

While Carols is predominantly a photographer, his work behind the lens is only a portion of his art. As mentioned on his website, Carlos' concepts materialize with the help of family and friends in complex photo performances. Betsy and I were auditioning to be a part of his next dynamic scene. He creates elaborate scenes of human interaction using an eclectic array of props and the creation of ellaborate photo displays such as this one with a huge variety of colorful Christmas ornaments.
Be sure to stop on by while Carlos is still there. You have until June 26.

More information can be found on these websites.....http://www.jjohnsongallery.com/or Carlos at http://www.carlosbetancourt.com/.

I'm exhausted!

Cellars in Florida??

Yes, right here in St. Augustine, where the word 'cellar' takes on new meaning!

Cellar6 is the newest addition to St. Augustine’s nightspots – a sensuous lounge to ‘wine down’ that is cool, intimate and relaxing. It is tucked away on brick-paved Aviles Street and upon entering, guests are immediately drawn to the dazzling yellow glass wine cellar.

Cellar6 captures the speakeasy era, making this a must-stop for anyone wishing to find updated-old-school St. Augustine!

Craig Colee and Valerie Shubert, both native to this area and the owners of Cellar6, are committed to providing an 'at home' feeling with 4-star service - while offering a broad selection of fine wines and clever light fare. Nightly, guests enjoy the smooth sounds of contemporary jazz artists both in ‘surround sound’ and live. Enjoy Cellar6 every Monday thru Saturday ~ 4:00pm till ‘late.' Always complimentary valet parking .

Cheers!
Cellar6, #6 Aviles Street, St. Augustine, Florida, (904) 827-9055
RSVP@cellar6.net, http://www.cellar6.net/

I'M FEELING WICKED!

Oh, so Wicked! and Oh, so cold! My honey was there to keep me warm and to purchase my WICKED sweatshirt for me. A Tshirt would have been fine, but not on that night. I believe they kept the A/C turned on 'cold' so they could sell sweatshirts. It worked!
I was wickedly warm.

The theatre production was fantastic and such a twist from the witches point of view. Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and lastly, the Scarecrow made only small appearances.

The crowd was very pleased, everyone seem to love it -- Me, not so much.

The sound, at times, left me wishing I had earplugs. Loved the set though and the actors did an amazing job getting their personalities and stories over to the crowd. Only a few people left after the first 1 1/2 hour set. My applause to the wonderful cast and the EMERALD CITY set designer...fantastic.!

Defying Gravity!