I got back from vacation yesterday afternoon. I surprised myself by actually being able to relax. So much fun was had, and we were pretty much schedule free the entire time. Over the next few days I’ll give you a recap little by little. There are so many pictures! My parents actually took charge of my camera some of the time. I’m so use to always being the one behind the camera. Does this mean there are pictures of me where I’m not the one holding the camera?! Anyway, I can feel that my stress level went down a lot during this vacation. It was nice to temporarily let go of daily responsibilities. But now that I’m back, I’m going to try to incorporate relaxation time more often in my day, even just little moments of deep breathing.

And so it begins…

We got in very late to the hotel, so were a little too tired to get a tour of the grounds. Who knew what we would awaken to? I think it’s funny how a single place can look so different from day to night.

In the back is a bowl of bircher muesli I topped with strawberries, caramelized walnuts, and granola. This was the best muesli I’ve ever had! Of course, we both drank a cup of green tea.

After breakfast we went exploring around the hotel.

The very zen inspired Golden Door Spa.

Part of the lobby.

I took the escalators up to the ballrooms. The view from up above, hello everybody!

We also found the fitness center. The treadmills all had a view of the ocean. They also had a stretching area, which would turn out to be the perfect spot for me to get my yoga on. We also found the sauna, steam room, and eucalyptus room. I have some dried eucalyptus plants in my room in Virginia. Whenever I go out of town, since I keep my doors closed, the smell inhabits my room. I love it!

Before sitting in the sun. Actually I don't know why I look so white (for me) in this picture haha.

Both of us rockin' the aviators. Like mother like daughter!

Breaking into Zoe's Heavenly Apple bar.

Another Zoe Foods product review! I liked this bar a lot. I tend to favor bars that have a grainy texture, and not the ones that seem like a solid block. It was very apple-y and had a good texture. This bar was also satisfying enough to get me through till lunch time.

As I was walking along the shoreline, I found this little cove.

It felt like I found a secret location.

Seafoam!

I cut up some cucumbers before our trip to ensure we'd have some fresh veggies.

Cucumbers are so refreshing and perfect for eating on hot summer days. I find that whenever I travel, simple fresh foods strive to make an appearance. I don’t know why, but fresh fruit and vegetables are really the only things I get cravings for. It drives me crazy when I get cravings, so even on road trips I make sure to pack a bag of carrots and apples.

After lunch and a nap (I actually took a nap), we headed back down to the beach.

So beautiful!

Taking my mom hostage!

We finally called it a day for the beach. Dad and I went on a Whole Foods run.

My favorite thing were the little Yuca Queso balls, and I really liked the tofu in Thai Chili sauce too. Umm... actually I liked it all!

We also brought back some yummy things for my mom.

I finally got around to taking a shower! Hey, you guys found out a secret - I wear glasses sometimes.

Enjoying the breeze and view from the balcony.

Last but not least, a cup of Sleepytime tea to end my first day in Naples.

p.s. I want to thank you all for your sentiments on my last post. They mean a lot to me. Actually, you guys all matter to me! I love reading everybody’s stories and finding out new things about each person in their posts. Keeping a blog kind of feels like having pen-pals.

p.s.s. If there are any new readers, don’t be shy, just say hi!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of my vacation. And now I’m signing off to enjoy my Monday. Hope you enjoy yours too!