Saturday, February 17, 2018

TREATS, TRIVIA & TIPS


Have you ever watched The Amazing Race on CBS?  This program pairs exes, couples, siblings, friends and even strangers, as they try to find clues all around the world in an attempt to win $1 million dollars.  Not only is it very entertaining, but it's a great way to find out about other cultures, and to see how different people handle teamwork.

Here are 6 ways guaranteed to NOT win all the money!

1.  Not knowing how to read a paper map because there won't be a GPS in sight.

2.  Don't piss off the other teams because you may get sabotaged.

3.  If you're not prepared to eat scorpions, which have a ton of protein by the way, you're in trouble.  If you're squeamish about bugs crawling on you, just stay home.  

4.  Don't shoot yourself in the foot by losing your passport, because the game will be over before you know it.

5.  It's hard for you to follow directions/instructions, or your memory isn't as good as you thought it was.  

6.  Start practicing aerobics because you're destined for a hard core workout.


Have you ever noticed those ritzy looking lounges in the airport and wondered what people were doing there?  I sure have, and now you can get these deals too by using this app -https://www.loungebuddy.com

BWI LOUNGE

BWI LOUNGE
These lounges are exclusive, but no need to pay for an exorbitant  annual membership.  You can reserve a spot for just one day of luxury with pricing that ranges from $25 up to $143.  What do they include?

Perks can include meals, hard liquor, showers, wine, FREE wi-fi, televisions, sterling customer service and lots more. The only downside is that they're not all open 24 hours a day, so making a reservation is key.  Be prepared if some places are busier than others, but it's still away from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

Roam Fitness in BWI
BWI has the only airport exercise gym in the US, including  workout gear, tennis shoes, toiletries, towels and the use of showers for just $25. 


Heathrow



Dubai
Headed to Dubai? While waiting for your flight, get a drink, eat a meal, check your Internet, and more for just  $39.


Greece

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, Transportation, Storage and Distribution Managers earn the highest salary for those employed without a college degree.  If you snag one of these coveted positions, the annual median salary is close to $90,000, and you only need to be a high school graduate.

The New York Knicks are #11 in the league so far this year, but they're still the most valuable team overall bringing in 426 million dollars according to their stats from 2016/2017.  

MAKING MONEY MOVES
If you're a basketball fan, you already know who earns the most cash.  If you guessed Lebron James (aka King James) you'd win all the money on Jeopardy.  His salary is about $32 million, but add endorsements, and he scores a hefty net worth of $85.3 million.

BOOKS, BOOKS & BOOKS
The next time you're in the Boston area, and want to check out a unique bookstore, be sure to visit The Harvard Bookstore, which has been around since 1932.  Once a season they open up their warehouse for HUGE deals and sales on books.

Tony Novak - Chef
                                            TAKE A TRIP
If you're a foodie, and plan a trip to Hawaii, sign up for the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival from June 7 - 10.  Enjoy a weekend filled with celebrity chefs, wine tastings and more.




BUCKET LIST
I don't know if it will ever happen, but it's sure on my bucket list to visit Switzerland, and I already have the hotel picked out  of where I want to stay. (lol) 

It's called the Burgenstock Hotel, located in Lake Lucerne.  It's 102 rooms of pure delight right above the lake, in an area with luxury restaurants, and bars.

Now I just have to save up for the room at $665 per night!

EARN CASH FOR WHAT YOU LOVE
Lots of book bloggers get their books from Netgalley for FREE, but did you know you can actually work there (you're really working from home) and get paid?  The job is actually posted on the Publishers Weekly site. Right now they're looking for aOnline Content & Social Media Associate.   PW JobZone


NEW ORLEANS PRALINE BROWNIES


INGREDIENTS
1 Box Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix
Water, Vegetable Oil and Eggs as called for on the Brownie Mix Box
1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans

PRALINE FROSTING
1/2 Cup Whipping (Heavy Cream)
6 Tbsp Butter
1 1/2 Cups Packed Brown Sugar
1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans, Toasted
1 1/2 Cups Sifted Confectioners Sugar
1 Tsp Vanilla

DIRECTIONS
  • 1
    Heat oven to 350° F. Spray bottom only of 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray.
  • 2
    Make brownie mix as directed on box for fudge brownies, using water, oil and eggs. Stir in chopped pecans. Bake as directed. Cool completely, about 1 hour.
  • 3
    In medium saucepan, mix cream, butter and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Continue cooking 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in pecans, powdered sugar and vanilla. Cool 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • 4
    Spread frosting over brownies. Allow to stand 30 to 45 minutes, or until frosting is set. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows, or however you like.




85 comments:

  1. Those brownies have made my day! Thanks for the recipe!!!

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    1. I could eat a few right now too, Angela! Happy Sunday and Hugs...RO

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  2. My foodie friend Sally LOVES the Amazing Race. Sadly, I've only watched it once and was not really impressed. The couples were arguing, nobody was happy, and I couldn't get into the spirit of the game. Sally watches it for the places they visit, but all I saw were cab rides and people running. Guess I should try it again. BTW, I know how to use (and read) a map because I don't own anything with a GPS.

    Yes, I would have guessed Labron was the highest money maker. Unfortunately, he is very low on my list of people I admire. He's good and he knows it. He reminds me of a bully, though.

    I would gladly join you in Switzerland. But we could only stay two nights, because that would be as much as I could afford (grin). Hope your Sunday is going well.

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    1. The very first show I watched years ago, I couldn't get into either, but somehow I really get caught up into the culture and tasks. As a basketball fan, I'm not surprised you knew that one, Elizabeth! I have been working hard to win a trip there, so make sure your passport is up to date! (lol) Hugs...RO

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    2. I believe I have changed my mind about LaBron after watching the All Star Game tonight. I'm always willing to admit when I'm wrong and I feel I have misjudged him and his actions in the past.

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    3. He seems like an interesting young man. I always like hearing how he loves his wife so much as far as the Pop Culture thing goes. Hugs...

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  3. Wish that I could make a better contribution to your great post but I don't fly and I rarely watch TV :)
    But one thing I do is eat...and those brownies will be tested in reality and more books will be brought into my home

    Big Hugs đź’•đź’ž

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  4. Oh mercy, those brownies!!!! -sighhhhhhhhhh-

    Never knew anything about The Amazing Race, before!!! :::: Didn't know those fancy airport lounges could be had, on a one time basis. Not that we travel but.... :::: That book store would be a delightful visit, even just to look around. :::: Ahhhhhh Switzerland! When I was a kid, I wanted to honeymoon there. ,-) Nope, we didn't get that far. -grin-

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    1. It's really an interesting program to watch, and fun too. I'll also say a HUGE yes to chocolate. Those one day lounges were quite wonderful to check out. I would love to check out that bookstore to see all those deals. I can never have too many books. Hugs...

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  5. In your work with abused woman, you must have read "Dangerous Personalities" by Joe Navarro. There is so much in it, dealing with people, caught in the web of these malignant personalities.

    I read it last evening... Oh mercy! What a disturbing read. To think that people are caught up, by these horrible people. -sigh- Helping these abused women, you must see, what harm these people can do.

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    1. Definitely an interesting read, and so sad that so many have been hurt. Hugs...RO

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  6. Wow RO, how do you know all of this stuff.? I’m impressed!
    Do you what’s on at Hinckley Cinema on the 28thof February?
    Cheers!

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    1. You've stumped me Terrific Terry! And now I'm super curious to know what's happening. Hugs...RO

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  7. And now I know. I've been curious about the airport lounges, too. Yep, guessed that about Lebron, but had no idea the Knicks were the big money team of the NBA.
    That hotel and location in Switzerland look fab. Good call, there.

    Yum on the brownies. :)

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    1. I really get fascinated about some of this news, and have a friend who loves the Knicks. Switzerland here I come! Hugs...RO

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  8. I would never survive The Amazing Race. Between the aerobics and the bugs... well, I'm just not cut out for it! That hotel in Switzerland looks amazing! And the brownies sound delicious; too bad I'm watching my calories.

    Have a great week, RO!

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    1. There is so much going on, that I wouldn't make it 15 minutes before they'd have to put me back on the plane Lark. (lol) Yay to chocolate, but I heard dark is better for health reasons.(lol) Hugs...RO

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  9. You had me at Brownie...seriously I'd go for one of those to eat while I'm not participating in the amazing race, there is too much involved there for me to remember.

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    1. Years ago, I would have been on board for the Race, but these days, I barely remember where I went the day before(l0l) Yay to chocolate! Hugs...RO

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  10. I've never seen a airport lounge before. Although, when I'm flying I'm usually in such a haze trying to figure out where my connecting flight is that I'm not really paying attention to all the shops around me.

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    1. I'm with you on that Kristin! I've missed a few flights because of my daydreaming. (lol) Hugs...RO

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    1. I'm all in for my chocolate! Happy Friday and Hugs...RO

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  12. That hotel looks amazing. I need to start saving up too. WOW!

    Just passed on the job you mentioned to a friend. Thanks for sharing it!

    I look forward to visiting the bookstore in Boston the next time I am there. Only a 2 1/2 hour drive. :)

    Interesting statistics about the jobs that pay the most without a degree. I have three degrees and have been a teacher for 20 years and that is more than my ending salary will be. I imagine there is a lot of competition for those jobs- but great to have such earning potential.

    Have a lovely weekend!

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    1. Hope things work out with your friend Stephanie on the job front. Wow! Only a 2 1/2 hour drive sounds like a fun road trip for sure. One of my blog posts a little while ago is that teachers are grossly underpaid. They should easily earn over $100,000 or more a year for all they do. Pretty cool about you having 3 degrees, and hope to hear more about that one day. Kudos to you! Hugs...RO

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  13. I never heard of the Amazing Race, but that does sound interesting. I can read paper maps, so I would do well with that one, less so when it comes to some of those other things you listed.

    I've been to Switzerland a few times and I am pretty sure we visited Lucern once. That hotel you picked out for your stay does sound lovely with view of the lake. I hope you get the chance to go there.

    Hmm that pecan frosting sounds good!

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    1. It's a really neat show that taught me quite a bit Lovely Lola. I used to be able to read them pretty good, but I think it's iffy for me these day. (lol) You're so lucky to have visited Switzerland! Do you have pics? I'll keep you posted if I win a trip. (lol) Hugs...RO

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  14. Oh my gosh, so much great info in this post. But I think at the top of the list for me is that praline brownie. Grin. Followed by the hotel in Switzerland, even if I did have to pick myself up from the floor after seeing the price.
    I trust you got your fifteen minutes in Rockin Ro and that now you've kicked back and have your feet up.
    Hugs

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    1. A big fat YES to chocolate Super Sandra! That price is astronomical, but somehow, I would splurge for just 2 nights to stay in such a lovely place. I just need to win it in a sweepstakes(lol) Hugs..RO

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  15. Depending on the rooms and the hotel standard, perhaps $665 per night for that hotel is good value. It looks terrific.

    A friend who pays an annual fee to use airport lounges is not at all happy about how busy the lounges have become, the type of people who use them and a general decline in standards. I'll never know what they are like.

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    1. The inside of that hotel is fabulous, so the rooms are definitely worth it Andrew for sure. I've seen some reviews that say the crowds in some places is just over the top. Others are super quiet with little traffic. I'm not sure if it depends on the time of day, or the actual location. A few look that are tied to hotels look pretty interesting. Hugs...RO

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  16. Ro I watch Amazing Race and wish I could do it. But I am chicken sh-t. The year the woman shaved her head I was done. There is no way I would have done that. Or eat scorpions. But I live vicariously through the show.
    As for the lounges, they really aren't all very great. Having worked in the field I used them a great many times. Most are just a way to be away from the majority of people and have some peace. If I had to pay for them I wouldn't. But they sure were nice getting away from the crowds especially with a flight delay. A cocktail and quiet can be priceless.

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    1. Way back in the day, I think I may have given it a go. But there is no way I could do it now Peggy. Just running from the airplane to the car would be a disaster. Like you, I dream.)lol) I've heard that some are a great way of relaxing in the lounges that aren't that crowded. As you mentioned though, I think the massive crowds that can show up at various hours may be a turnoff. Cool that you used to do that. I bet you have some really neat stories to share. (lol) Hugs...RO

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  17. Oooh brownies! Love that recipe!!! I would love to visit Switzerland...mainly for the chocolate lol! :) I'm afraid of flying though. I did a backpacking tour of Western Europe in 1989 (just when the wall was coming down so it was still Eastern/Western)...and that was the last time I flied, but that's okay! I'm happy at home :)

    I used to watch Amazing Race religiously! I LOVED it. I even had plans to enter with a friend of mine, and yes, you need to be in great shape for that!! I only stopped watching when I gave up television in the late 2000's! It's a great show!

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    1. I just realize I wrote "that was the last time I flied" lol....omg my grammar...."flew" is what I should have written lol!

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  18. This is a fabulous post you have here darling!! You always share the most unique posts about the world and I love it. I have heard of the Amazing Race but have yet to watch it.

    Its kinda crazy how much sports players make sometimes especially in football and basketball.

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    1. I agree that sports stars work hard, but if I had my way, teachers would make those kind of salaries. (lol) You say the kindest things and I appreciate you so much! Hugs...and Happy Tuesday! RO

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  19. I've never watched the show, mostly because I don't watch TV, but I've heard it's good.

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    1. It really is a great way to show patience, teamwork and kindness. Hugs...RO

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  20. I have never been into those special lounges at the airports, and as I don't travel much these days, I probably won't! But our airport offers free WiFi for one hour, so that's something, even if you're just there to collect someone! And I love the sound of those brownie bars wit frosting, yummy! Have a great week, hugs, Valerie

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    1. I like the fact of being able to get FREE w-fi because it's a great way to catch up on things while waiting too Valerie. Yes to chocolate! Hugs..RO

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  21. I watched part of the first season of the amazing race and didn't watch it again after that.

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    1. They had the winner this past Wednesday, and it was rough. Hope you can catch up again when they do the next season. Hugs...RO

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  22. Those brownies look amazing! I love all things praline so this is going on my must try. Somehow I've never watched The Amazing Race but on the commercials there always seems to be someone whose lost their passport or been sabotaged so I think your rules are right on!

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    1. Love the flavors of praline too Katherine. They had the winner this past Wednesday and I was surprised by the winners because they weren't always friendly.(lol) Hugs...RO

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  23. I would never make it through The Amazing Race. I get lost way too easily and I won't eat a bug even though I don't care if they crawl on me lol

    I rarely fly so I didn't know about those areas. Cool!

    Karen @ For What It's Worth

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    1. LOL! These days, I forget what I did 15 minutes ago Karen(lol) No bug on me, or as a snack either. Hugs...RO

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  24. Another great post! I love The Amazing Race. Actually, Canada is now making their own Amazing Race too. I try to watch both. Those airport lounges are gorgeous, wow! I watch basketball with my brother and mom. Sorry, I don't care for Lebron James. I personally don't think anyone is worth that much money! Crazy! LOL! Thanks for the recipe! Yummy! Big Hugs!

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    1. That's cool that Canada is doing this too, and I sure wish I could see it! What did you think of the winner this past Wednesday? The money he makes is pretty amazing for sure. I'd like to see those salaries go to teachers. Yay to chocolate and Happy Friday! Hugs...RO

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  25. That's excellent info on the job market, Rockin Ro. Those high school grads are making considerably more than many college grads, myself included. Heh.
    Have a great one.
    Hugs

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    1. I get amazed to see these stats on certain jobs for sure Super Sandra, and hope your day is going well. Hugs...RO

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  26. I've watched The Amazing Race a few times! It is fun to see the other cultures and how the teams go about their tasks. And that hotel in Switzerland looks awesome. That's a country I definitely want to visit at some point.

    Harvard Book Store looks like my kind of place. :)

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    1. I'm keeping my bags packed for that Switzerland trip Greg. (lol) They may have to kick me out of that bookstore because I'd just be hanging out all day. Hope your day is fabulous and that you're feeling well! Hugs...RO

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  27. It's amazing how much more they make off the job

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    1. Hope your day is amazing Christine! Hugs...RO

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  29. Cool tips RO, I have never watched the great race as I don't watch tv. I actually do know about the exec lounges at airports bc I used to plan the travel for my companies execs and often reserved them for the pres. I also get paid doing things I love at home I get paid for reviewing, I also have a reviewing gig that I don't get paid for but I do it for my Library reviewing for Library Journal. and those brownies wow they make my teeth hurt just seeing them LOL
    Hugs

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    1. Many people are unaware that there can be good money in reviewing books, and it's even better when you have a job you really love. Cool about doing those reservations for the president. That sounds like an interesting gig. I just need to have my chocolate Debbie!(lol) Hugs...RO

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  30. OMG those New Orleans praline brownies!!!! WANT!!! I am still in the Mardi Gras spirit!! - www.domesticgeekgirl.com

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    1. I wish I could stay away from chocolate, but sometimes it's just too hard Gingi.(lol) Hugs...RO

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  31. I always love hearing about bookstores, Rockin Ro. And isn't it sad that they are getting fewer and fewer?
    Have a glorious day, my friend.
    Hugs

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    1. I know Super Sandra. It used to be bookstores were close enough for me to walk to. These days, we practically need to catch a jet to get to one. (lol) Hope our day is wonderful! Hugs...RO

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  32. I would have lost The Amazing Race before it even began. Lol. I'm bad at ALL of them. And I so wish I could go to that bookstore in Boston! I would need a couple of hundred dollars though because I am not to be trusted in a bookstore with a credit card. Hope you're having a great week Ro!

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    1. I'm with you on the bookstore Adria. Would be very easy to overspend on deals. Hope all is going well with you! Hugs...RO

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  33. I love amazing race! That show sparked my love of travel, now I’ve been to over 15 countries and I want more! I would love to apply for the race but no one will race with me, it looks like so much fun. Your New Orleans Praline Brownies look delicious.

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    1. Wow Mary! I need to be hanging out with you! Traveling to over 15 countries is fantastic, and I'll bet you have so many stories and pics to share. I don't need that chocolate, but my goodness is it so yummy! By the way, I'm still doing those side squats to music and building up my endurance. It's a serious workout, girl! (lol) Hugs...RO

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  34. Not knowing how to read a paper map...... something that the latest generation trying to cope with.

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    1. You're right. Young people are definitely more used to the GPS.(lol) Thanks so much for stopping by to say hello! Hugs...RO

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  35. I'd never make it on Amazing Race. I can't handle a single thing on the list except not losing my Passport. Don't be too mad, I visited Lucerne when my hubby was stationed overseas. Gorgeous! I hope you get to mark it off your bucket list.

    Have a beachy week!
    Elsie

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    1. OMG you went to Lucerne?! Do you have pics to share? (lol) I'm not even sure if I'd keep my passport with my memory these days Elsie. (lol) Hugs...RO

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  36. I would definitely fail at The Amazing Race.

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  37. You shared some awesome recipes. I would definitely need to train hardcore to compete on the Amazing Race! Tori @ In Tori Lex

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    1. You and I both Tori.(lol) Love me some chocolate - maybe a little too much. Happy Tuesday and Hugs...RO

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  38. Thanks for the recipes. I think I'll look into reserving the lounge on my next trip. Last time we spent over 6 hours at Incheon Airport in transit. It was okay I suppose...eateries were dotted all over and there was free wifi.

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    1. My goodness, 6 hours is a long layover for sure. It would be great if you could relax a little in a lounge. FREE wi-fi is always great! Happy Tuesday and Hugs...RO

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  39. Quite the posh little lounge! Well worth it if you have a long layover I'd think :)

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    1. If I had a 5 hour or move layover, I would definitely give it a go. Hugs...RO

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