Bouquet-a-Month

Last August I started a tradition of sorts in our home. It was something I wanted to do for myself for a while and that my husband could enjoy too. This all started before my last birthday when I was feeling rather reflective on what I had accomplished to date, what I still desired to conquer and the small things that really make me happy. Flowers were at the top of that list.

Sometimes you'll go to a nice hotel or visit an upscale salon or office where beautiful blooms are prominently displayed. Maybe it's an oversized white potted orchid or a stunning assortment of seasonal stems. I just love how fresh flowers make me feel. So, I decided that I would give that gift to myself every month in the form of a flower bouquet.

Flowers can be quite expensive so I am careful not to go to pricey floral shops but rather look to nature for some inspiring vase filler and take advantage of supermarket, farmer's market and roadside sales. About 10 minutes from my house off of a main road, a local orchid grower sells a multiplicity of healthy orchids at amazing prices starting at $5. Who can resist? But my main source is our local grocery store which often sells a dozen roses for less than $6. I try to buy beautifully scented and long living flowers to maximize my monthly gift. Alternatively, you can clip some flowers from your garden for the same effect.

As women, I think this is such a wonderful gift to give to ourselves. You need not limit them all to one vase. Especially for mixed bouquets, I'm notorious for splitting up each type and placing a vase on our kitchen table, one in my office, one in the bathroom, you get the idea. I just really love both the scent and femininity of flowers. Some days they have such a tranquil, soft quality and other days I love their ability to exude perkiness and vibrancy. Currently, I have some sunflowers displayed in both our kitchen and my office, which were a gift from my hubby when I first came down with a cold. They sure do have a way of cheering you up!

Have you ever thought of giving yourself this gift? If you follow my $6 plan, that's 20 cents per day! Less than a cup of coffee! What other gifts do you give yourself on a regular basis? Do you enjoy monthly massages, pedicures or special gourmet chocolates? We are worth it ladies! If money is tight, you could save up the cash in an account first and reserve it especially for yourself for the months ahead.

Let us know if you decide to give it a try!

International Etiquette

I was in the library yesterday picking up my weekly round up of books when I stumbled upon a book called, 'Behave Yourself! The Essential Guide to International Etiquette'. I quickly flipped though it and knew I had to check it out. It lists 45 major countries and what each of their individual customs and traditions are for greetings, dress, eating & drinking and conversation.

As someone who loves to travel, I thought this book would be handy for myself and my world-traveler hubby and also entertaining and informative for you too!

Interesting Facts:

~Italy~

• In Italy, chewing gum is considered vulgar however smoking is widespread, even in nonsmoking sections in restaurants.



• When answering the phone, say "Pronto", which means "ready", not "Buon giorno."



• Sitting down for coffee is much more expensive than standing at the bar, which is why you will often see a crowd of Italians crowded at the bar drinking espresso.



• It is polite to stay at the table until the meal is finished, rather than visiting the bathroom during the meal.
  
  

~France~

• Bread and bread sticks are an accompaniment to the main meal, so don't start nibbling until the food arrives!



• Don't use the OK sign, it means 'zero' in France.



• Good posture is very important and a sign of class. Keep your hands out of your pockets, don't slouch or chew gum.



• Only use first names when invited. It is customary to address your elders with Monsieur or Madame.

~Turkey~

• It is normal for people of the same sex to walk hand in hand as a sign of friendship.



• Carry Identification with you at all times-it is required by law.



• Don't cross your arms while facing someone, it is considered rude.



• Shaking your head means "I don't understand"; it doesn't mean no. To say 'NO', raise your eyebrows and make a "tsk' sound, or tilt your head backward slightly. Nod to say yes.



• On public transportation, women should not sit next to male strangers.

~Greece~

• The drinking age in Greece is 16.



• In many restaurants you are allowed (and even encouraged) to visit the kitchen to see how the food id being prepared and to decide what you would like to order.



• Raising an open palm at face level is insulting. The OK sign is considered a rude gesture with obscene connotations.



• When you are invited to a Greek home, make a big fuss over the children. Greece is a very child-oriented culture, so don't exclude them when talking to adults.



• In a Greek home, expect to be offered many seconds and thirds at meals. Eating well is a compliment to your hosts. If you are dining out, your host will usually pay the whole bill.

I thought I'd share with you the last four countries in Europe that I recently visited. They were all so lovely. The photo at the top of this post was taken on our trip in Santorini, Greece which in my opinion is heavenly!