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Beach Week Is Coming To Red River March 13-20 - OnTheSnow.com

You might consider time spent at Red River Ski Area as a rest day depending on your skiing skills and that's okay. Sometimes we need to put the R n' R back into a ski vacation. The mom and pop resort (or brother and sister as it is, literally) is ...

Walla Walla inns, chefs team up for Gourmet Getaways - Tacoma News Tribune

Recession's start didn't faze Walla Walla tourism WALLA WALLA -- The start of a recession apparently didn't faze tourists heading into Walla Walla last year. Visitors spent a record $91.4 million in their travels to the community in 2008, according ...

Family beach offers ways to save money on vacation - Herald-Dispatch

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- Myrtle Beach has a reputation as a family beach -- a workingman's destination where a week of sun and fun with the kids won't break the bank. In a time of layoffs, high unemployment and recession, that makes the Grand Strand ...

Sisters show horses - CharlotteObserver.com

BISHOPVILLE, S.C. Sisters MeMe Anderson, 13, and Luci Anderson, 10, have asked their mother, Laurie Anderson, to allow them to go to equestrian camp this summer in Florida instead of going to the beach for the family's annual two-week beach vacation ...

Tsunami Swept Bus with Retirees into Ocean - CBS News

The World Health Organization says the death-toll from Chile's devastating earthquake is expected to climb dramatically. Chile's government has asked the United Nations for satellite phones, emergency portable bridges, electric generators and field ...

Beach stand operators hope for an improved summer - Delmarva Now

DEWEY BEACH -- Andrew Lynam has seen hurricanes, droughts and robberies since taking over his family's beach concession business more than a year ago. But nothing prepared him for what happened last summer when his business, Dewey Beach Services ...

Spring break only for college students? Think again - CNN

I've spent spring breaks hunting for the "perfect" Sand Dollar on a Sanibel Island beach, watching major leaguers at spring training games, along with my little leaguers, and exploring the Grand Canyon with a couple of young hikers who were thrilled ...

Small Bites capsule restaurant reviews for March 5 and beyond - Cleveland Plain Dealer

The capsule reviews are based on full reviews by Plain Dealer restaurant critics. We also include capsules of older reviews of some of the region's more prominent eateries. The critics make at least two anonymous visits to each restaurant and do not ...

Deals at Water Parks Lure the Winter-Weary - ABC News

... decades ago as a way to pump up a three-month summer season has spread from Alaska to Virginia, with 217 hotel-based parks operating in 35 states, says Jeff Coy of JLC Hospitality Consulting. Even warm-weather vacation ... Beach," Disney's ...

It turns out that mother (-in-law) knows best - Baltimore Sun

W hat woman hasn't caught a glimpse of her aging face in the mirror and thought, "Oh, no. I look like my mother." What mother hasn't heard herself barking at her children and thought, "Heavens. I sound just like my mother." Me? Well, my hands look ...

Open Question: summer vacation weather question?

In mid-June this summer my family is going to hershey park in pennsylvania and to point pleasant beach nj the next day. will it we warm? warm enough to not wear jackets and swim? does it rain alot? thanks! more

Open Question: Vacation weather question????!?

Open Question: can anyone help me prevent my freckles from coming back?

i always get freckles in the summer and they fade in the winter but some freckles are staying longer than id like....im going on vacation with my family in a couple of weeks and dont want my freckles to come back. we are going to be outdoors and on the beach a lot. is there a sunscreen (and what spf) that would block the sun good enough to not bring out my freckles? more

Resolved Question: How should I tell my dad about tattoos?

Okay, so I'm about to turn 20. I have three tattoos, and got the first one right after I turned 18. Somehow I have managed to hide them from my dad for almost two years. My mom knows about them, but won't tell my dad because she knows how bad he'll freak out. The tattoos are all classy, and clearly in places I can hide them with relative ease. I actually have no problem with my dad never knowing about them, but he's trying to plan a family vacation this summer that will almost certainly involve a beach. Beaches... bathing suits... you get it. Oh, and my dad has told me multiple times that if I ever got a tat, he's cut it off with an old army knife. Soooooo, suggestions?I should mention that he still tells me he'd cut a tattoo off every time I go home. He have a few beers, cry, and tell me not to get tattoos. I should also mention that the man is irrational. more

Voting Question: Any ideas for a Summer Vacation?

We are trying to pick a place for a family vacation (over the summer), we are a family of 5 including 3 teens. Any family friendly places, that aren't too expensive? We don't mind the mountains or beaches, one of our teens really wants to go to the beach, though. Also,our family is adventurous and loves to do new things. Any ideas? Thanks* We are considering Washington DC, Orlando, and maybe Cancun...if you have any other suggestions, that would be great:) more

Voting Question: Family Vacation ideas?

We are planning our vacation (for the summer) and we need help. We are a family of 5 including 3 teens & Nothing too expensive. We don't mind the beach, or mountains...though one of the teens really want's to go to the beach. We are considering Disney World, and Washington DC, and maybe Cozumel. Any other ideas? If so, please include info about each spot, if you can. Thanks.If it helps, we're in Texas more

Open Question: What do you think of my poem?

This is my poem. I'm just going to say the poem right now so you can read it and then i will explain it. I want to know what you think of it, what you liked and didnt like, where there should be punctuation, and i want to give more detail in the poem about the setting and characters so also think about how i can do that. The poem is called Deep Sea Fishing; The first time I got on the boat in a while I saw you standing there With your fishing gear Your hat and mud boots were shades of gray The smell of fish in the bay We drove off into the deep ocean blue What I felt about you I didnt have a clue By the end of the trip I knew I would flip If I saw you again Two years later, August 13, 2008 I went through the gate And saw the first mate Unless my eyes played a trick It was the same guy back from 2006 I saw the blond hair, the hat, the mud boots too And thought, it was all too good to be true My heart skipped a beat I almost fainted and fell off my feet I knew it was him Or an identical twin We said hello And got ready to go I was happy as could be Even though my family teased me We hit our first fishing spot I guess we really hit the jackpot Turned away I felt an enormous tug And screamed right away I turned around, the first mate was right there Ready to help in the time of my scare It was my wish To catch a bluefish That night was a lot of fun I wonder whether or not this is done Or if there's fate Between me and the first mate So now i'll explain it. I think the poem was a little confusing and unclear. A bunch of people in my family were on the boat. There was about 40 people on the boat. Out of those 40 about 20 or 25 of them were my family. I have a huge extended family and some people went deep sea fishing some didnt. We go on vacation to the same beach every year during the summer and this is one of the things we do on the vacation. What happened was the first time i had gone deep sea fishing in a long time, cuz i was a little scared to go for a while before that i was about 13 and had a crush on the first mate who was a bit older than me like probable about 18. I wanted ti see him again the next year we went but i didnt. Then the year after that which was two years after the first time i met him cuz he was the first mate, i saw him again. I actually saw him a third time just last summer too but i didnt include that in the poem. I dont know if i should. So thats the poem and my explanation. Can you tell me what oyu think of it, how to improve it, and if u understood it and anything else u want to add. more

Resolved Question: Tropical Vacation ideas close to US?

My family is looking to take a vacation this summer (2010) to somewhere tropical, and not too expensive. It needs to be close to the US, somewhere near cuba, so the plane tickets aren't too expensive. I've never been out of the country before, so i'm not really sure where I'd like to go (i'm the kid in the family btw). I want somewhere that "has it all." Beaches, pools, activities and fun! We'd be going in mid to late June most likely. Any ideas? Going to the Bahamas was up in the air, but I need some more tropical countries close to home THANKS! more

Voting Question: Are there any public swimming beaches on Table Rock Lake that allow dogs?

I'm going to Branson this summer with my family and we're bringing our 2 dogs. I'm looking to spend at least one day at a public beach and want to make sure I'm able to bring the dogs along. Would hate to take my dogs on vacation with us just to leave them in the cabin all day. more

Voting Question: arizona or florida Keys?

Where should my family go for summer vacation? We are more beach type people so I thought the keys, but my dad says Arizona. What are the pros and cons of both? more

Voting Question: Hotel ON beach in Florida or California?

My family and I are looking to take a vacation this summer to either Florida or California and we were in need of some recommendations for locations and hotels. We want the hotel to be ON the beach so we can walk right out back and be there. Also, any ideas of fun things to do would be appreciated as well. Thank you! more

Resolved Question: What do you think of this excerpt of my story?

I sat outside by the pool on a warm summer afternoon. You know the type, with the light breeze, no clouds in the sky, the smell of neighbors barbecuing next door. It was perfect, even though I could have been in Hawaii. My beautiful older sister, Tori sat beside me on a brightly colored beach towel, tanning. Her naturally blonde hair was pulled to one side of her face. “Rebecca?” She said, not looking up. “Yes?” I responded. “What are you doing?” “I’m writing in my journal,” “Why?” I sighed impatiently, “Because I like to write.” She looked at me for the first time, “But why do you like to write?” I thought about it for a second, “Because it’s just my way of expressing myself and letting out suppressed emotions. Is that a good enough explanation for you?” “Yeah. I was just wondering,” She turned back towards the sun’s rays. My sister and I were barely a year apart, but we were in the same grade, because I was moved up a grade due to my “vast capability of knowledge” and more big words. If I was supposed to be so smart, why didn’t I understand any part of what the so called “experts” were saying? But anyways, Tori and I had always been close, but then puberty hit, and she got blessed with good looks and a flawless face, and I was not-so-blessed. With a head full of mousy brown hair and boring brown eyes, I was totally unnoticeable. Well, to most people. I watched Tori stand, her bronzed body glistening in the sun. She looked out towards the white picket fence and waved at someone, a flirtatious smile gracing her luscious lips. I was guessing the person was our 23-year-old neighbor, Dean, who had an odd thing for 16-year-old girls apparently. I turned my attention back to the laptop which was balancing on my knees; an e-mail from my best friend, Summer was on the screen. She had sent it all the way from Hawaii, where she and her family, including her hot and so-into-me brother, Blake, were vacationing. I began to scan it, savoring every line. Becca, It’s so warm down here! I wish you could see the amazing view we have from our hotel balcony. The ocean is as clear as glass, and I don’t ever want to leave. Blake told me to say hi. He has mentioned you a few times since we have been here. Is there something I should know about? So what’s new in Texas? Are you having fun sipping iced tea by the pool and watching Dean mow his yard with his shirt off? Hmm, that sight alone is enough for me to hop on the next flight back to the mainland. Well, Mom is badgering me to get off the computer and go to the beach with them. I promise to write more to you later. Love, Summer I smiled at the screen with delight. Blake had been asking about me! I e-mailed Summer right back, telling her it was okay in Texas, Dean was as hot as ever, and I was still perfecting my tea brewing skills, but I was getting there. I clicked the send button, and something else clicked in my head. At first, I was numb, and I remember thinking “This isn’t normal.” Then, the pain came, and I screamed in agony, falling to the floor. The laptop toppled over with me and hit with a loud crash, causing the screen to go ominously black, but I was in too much pain to worry about it. “Rebecca!” Tori gasped my name rushing to me. “I…it…hurts!” I wailed, and she rubbed my shoulders while whipping out her cell phone. “No!” I yelled more forcefully than necessary, “Don’t call anyone!” Tori stared at me in silent shock as my vision grew gray and then went dark in a snap. Behind my closed eyes, a picture began to appear, slowly, like an old television warming up. I could only make out a nice looking room with a seaside view. As the picture became clearer, I realized that it was a bedroom, and there was a person in the bed, a pale person who was gasping for breath. I squinted my eyes, trying to decipher the still blurry picture. The pain in my head had just about disappeared, and with a click, it was gone, and the images suddenly snapped into focus. I gasped in horror as I realized that the gasping figure on the bed was Summer’s mother, Mrs. Landon. She was grasping at her throat with one hand and reaching into the floor for her dropped inhaler with the other. I was frozen in place, unable to move anything. As I helplessly watched, her lips turned blue, and her eyes went wide. At last, she gasped once more then went limp. I expected her to miraculously sit up and walk out, but I knew somewhere deep inside that she was gone, and that this was no dream. The scene seemed to fast forward before my eyes. I looked out the window as the sun made its way across the bright blue Hawaiian sky until it was close to setting. Then I heard voices that seemed to come from a short distance. “Summer, go check on your mother,” This was Summer’s father. “`Kay!” Said Summer cheerfully, the sound of a girl having a blast on vacation. She walked more

Voting Question: Where would be a good destination in Florida for me and my family of 4 others to go to during summer 2010?

hello, me and my family are looking into going to florida. there is mom, grandma, grandpa, and two children, 14 & 7,,, can anyone tell me a good city in florida where we could go for vacation where we are near the beach and by things to do/ see? thank you. we are also not the richest family in ohio, (we are driving down there most likely), so should their be good hotels for a medium- low price in this/ these cities? more

Voting Question: Help with a Caribbean Vacation?

hey everyone. my family is wanting to take a caribbean vacation this summer, and we were wondering, which is the best caribbean island? we want the white sand and pristine beaches, yet affordable rates. thanks a lot! more

Resolved Question: I need some good diet tips on how to stop eating junk food and lose weight! Help?

Hi. So I am trying to start a diet tomorrow and I want to continue my diet hopefully for good, but my main goal is to lose weight by summer vacation so I can feel comfortable and happy if I go to the beach or the pool. I have cut down my eating portion size a lot over the past few months but my main problem is cutting out the junk food. I have noticed that when my family brings home junk food or junk food is in the house, I am always drawn to having some of it. And once I take a little bit, I want to eat the whole package. Its starting to get really bad and I'm tired of it. I have a fast metabolism so it doesn't affect me too much, but I still feel like I am eating way too unhealthy and I'd like to go on the track of eating a healthy diet. I am 17 years old, 5'3", and I weigh about 107 right now? I haven't weighed myself in a few months, so that might not be accurate. Also to add to a healthy diet, I've decided to become a vegetarian and not eat any meat. And so far, I've cut out all beef or red meat, pork, and turkey. But I have still eaten a tiny amount of chicken and fish, just so my body won't crash when I completely stop eating meat. But my other issue with this is that my mom keeps ragging on me everytime I say, "Oh we're having steak for dinner? I'll just have the salad and mashed potatoes." And she'll respond by saying "You need to eat meat. You're going to get sick if you don't. Your body needs protein. You're losing too much weight. Are you anorexic?" And these accusations are starting to annoy me and I try to handle things calmly but my mom keeps making a huge deal out of it. I mean its my decision, right? Does anyone know of any ways to not eat junk food? How do I cut out junk food? Its hard for me to not just eat it when its there looking straight at me. Also, do you know of any good, healthy snacks that could maybe replace junk foods and treats? Any suggestions would be helpful! Also please no diet pills or weight loss drinks. I'm not for that. Thank you! more

Resolved Question: What would be a good family friendly beach vacation?

We are a family of 4 with a 5 year old and a 1 year old we are looking for a family friendly getaway this summer at the beach. We have been looking at St. Pete, The Bahamas, The Keys and a little closer to home around Destin FL. We are looking for something straight outta the movies with great views and fun things to explore with the kids...any suggestions? more

Resolved Question: Where is the best place in America to take a family of six on a vacation?

Me my and my family are planning on taking a vacation at the end of the summer. We can go anywhere in America. There is a two year old girl who is very stubborn and doesn't do anything she doesn't want to do, a seven year old boy who doesn't like things that are too scary, a thirteen year old girl who wants to do something thrilling but not too scary, a eighteen year old boy who is mentally challenged so he likes the same as the seven year old, than my dad wants to do something SUPER thrilling, and than my step mom doesn't really care as long as everyone's happy. We can go to anywhere in America but it will be the end of the summer so we don't want to wait in too long of lines or be super hot the entire time. We also live on a tropical island so beaches aren't really what we are looking for ,but we do like water parks. Please give us suggestions and if you have been to that place you don't have to but it would be nice to give a review of that place. Message me if you need more details. Thanks more

Resolved Question: Planning florida summer vacation want to do really fun stuff! any ideas?

so me and my dad whos 53 and my cousin whos 15 and im 14 are going to miami. we might bring along two other really close family members who are in their 40s. anyway, i go to miami every year but it seems like theres not alot to do so this year i want to plan something extrodinary. so far we planned dolphin swimming, water tubing, banana boating, universal studios, possibly disneyworld epcot, a day on the beach. we need more ideas so if you have any please tell and also is the nikelodean park any good? im going to check that out as well. thanks guys for your help!we also have speed boating and slip and slide rentalpossibly cruising and busch gardens more

Resolved Question: Are there ANY decent hotels in or around Myrtle Beach that a 20 year old can check into?

My boyfriend and I are planning to take a small vacation to Myrtle Beach this summer but we're from Ohio and have no family there so we are in need of a hotel. The only problem is that with all of my sesrches the smallest age check-in requirement I have found for hotels there is 21. We will both be 20 by the time of our vacation.... :/ more

Resolved Question: How can i convince my parents to go on Vacation?

Okay, I know this sounds silly, but how do i convince my parents to take my family on vacation to Paris, France. We go on vacation every single summer, just to the beach nothing TOO special. I have wanted to visit France for quite some time. But I dont want my parent to laugh in my face. I wouldn't know how to approach them about the topic. All I know is that I would love to spend two weeks down there with my mom, dad, and brother. I know, who doesn't? But still, I would love some advice. Thanks so much in advance! more

Voting Question: Where should my family visit in the Caribbean?

Hello, I'm looking for a place to take the wife and kids for a summer vacation in the Caribbean. Kids are 18 and 15 and great athletes. We're looking for a place to relax and chill by the beach but a place to also have fun. We're interested in water sports snorkeling etc. Where would be the best place for us to have a rounded fun awesome vacation? more

Resolved Question: When have most of the hurricanes hit in South Carolina?

I'm thinking of spending our family vacation in Myrtle Beach, S.C. and was wondering what time of year the last few hurricanes had hit there. When did Hanna hit, etc? We were thinking about the time right around Memorial Day Weekend and the week coming after. We don't want to risk our one big vacation time for the year getting ruined by a hurricane. I read on the internet that the season for hurricanes starts that time of year but how often does it really happen or do they mostly happen later in the summer? I know that September is a hot month for them but, still want to be sure. Also, curious to know if that is a really busy time of year for that area. I don't mind busy but if it is ridiculously busy, not sure if I will try that with 3 kids under 8 years old. more

Voting Question: How old was your baby/child(ren) when you first took them on a vacation?

we are going to the beach the last couple of days in May first week in June..Lillian will be almost 31/2 months old than..my boys will be 4 and 3 and they have always went on vacations with us..even as newborns.. plus we are going camping probably at least 2 times this summer and Lillian will be anywhere from4-8 months old.. we are a very active family so we have tons of day trips planned too..were going to the zoo, water park, boating, hiking, sea world, Valley Worlds of Fun, places like that.. How old was your baby when you took them on their first vacation or trip? more

Voting Question: where can we go on vacation this summer within 150 miles of NY?

Hi, my family and I really need to get away on a relaxing trip this summer. My husband has been battling cancer over the past year and is currently in remission. Needless to say, we've been under a lot of stress. We live on long island, NY and would like to plan a simple getaway as soon as school is out for our 9 yr old daughter. We can't spend a fortune but we're looking to drive somewhere...I'd say 2 hours or so. We just want a nice hotel, a beach would be great, a pool and a kid friendly environment...maybe an area where there are fun things for kids but nothing too exhausting like a theme park...We just need a quiet place to relax that would be fun for our daughter (she's 9) Any ideas? We were thinking Connecticut but not too familiar with what's there. I'd love some input on what we can do that isn't too much of a drive. Thanks so much...looking forward to your advice. more

Resolved Question: GUYS: Would you like your girl to do this?

Every summer, my family and I go on vacation to a beach. I want to take my boyfriend there, and take a romantic walk on the beach. Would you enjoy walking hand in hand on the beach at night and some kisses...? I wouldn't want to make him uncomfortable.(And yes it would just be the 2 of us, my family would not be with us) more

Voting Question: Where should we go on vacation this year?

We are a family of 5. Three kids 11, 7, and 3. We are looking for ideas on where to travel to this summer. We live in NY but are willing to travel *probably up to about 8 hours or so* We've been to disney world, hershey park, RI beach, SC beach and attractions, lake george, NY, Virginia (bush gardens)... We like to camp, we like the beach, love aquariums and zoos, and like amusement parks. So, where should we go? more

Resolved Question: Would you question your wife going on vacation with another man?

My wife and I dated and lived together for 3 years, and have been married for 3 years and have a 2 year old child. We're both in our early to mid 30s- my wife is 34 and I'm 32. I've taken about 3 golf trips per year, and golf at least once every 2 weeks, while my wife watches our child. My wife recently told me she wanted to take a trip to get away for a week- as I do. However, she is a teacher, so she's limited to the days she can take during the year (she teaches throughout the year). She is planning a 5 day vacation with her ex boyfriend. She has told me that she wouldn't go on the vacation (she hasn't scheduled it yet, just planning it) if I didn't trust her. The two are both looking for nice, affordable condos on the beach that they can split down the middle and split the cost- this is supposed to be a cheap vacation getaway to the beach for her- same as when I go on my golf trips. She doesn't have any close girlfriends that she would take a trip with, nor does she have family members that can get away during spring break, or for that matter, 5 days on the beach. We're scheduled to take an expensive 10 day vacation with my parents and my wife and child in late summer, but my wife says she needs a break soon. My wife has been life long friends with this guy, dated him on and off again, and then dated him seriously for about 2 years right before we were married, They have remained in close contact with each other because they have been friends for such a long time. I haven't objected to their friendship-they talked while we were dating, engaged and he lives hundreds of miles away from us now; however, he has gone through a divorce and is single right now. They have stayed in touch mainly through Facebook, but do text and call each other sometimes. I'm going to let her go and trust her. Am I a fool? I've never questioned my wife's fidelity or love to me... more

Resolved Question: Is Hilton Head, South Carolina a nice place to go on vacation?

My family and I were thinking about visiting Hilton Head, South Carolina this summer, in July for a week. How are the beaches/the shade of the water? Is there a lively night life? What's there to do for fun during the day? Any other information would be appreciated! Thanks!! more

Resolved Question: How many of y'all are ready for summer?

I'm ready to hit the pool and get some sun at the beach! I went to the beach earlier this month, I didn't go swimming, I went to visit family. It made me ready for the hot weather. I'm going to Daytona Beach this spring with my dad. Then to St. Simons Island for the sumer. Where are you going for vacations during the warm weather? more

Voting Question: Summer beach family vacation ideas?

I live in Georgia (just outside of Atlanta) and I want to take my family (my husband, 2 1/2 yr old son and possibly my mother in law) on a beach vacation. I really want to go somewhere that would have waves and to be near the actual ocean not a cove and lake or inlet. I also am interested in something that is affordable. Lastly somewhere that is within 8 hrs drive from where I live. Any suggestions? more

Voting Question: What are some hot summer vacation spots within the 50 states?

I am planning a trip for me and my three best friends this summer. We are all around age 19/20 so I am not looking for a family vacation spot. I prefer a place where its known to get wild and out of hand, but at the same time the age limit for parties is 18 or 19 and older as opposed to 21 & up. It does not need to be a beach, but that would be nice as well. Even if it's just a place you heard of through the grape vine, please just throw some destinations out there. If you have personally been there though can you critique the destination and maybe recommend some things the destination has to offer. Thanks soo much everybody! I really appreciate this! more

Resolved Question: What color is the beach water in Costa Rica?

Hi everyone! So my family and I are going on a Caribbean vacation this summer, and we wanted to go to a place with white sand beaches, turquoise colored water, and great snorkeling. Is Costa Rica a good choice? Are there beaches there that fit this description? Please let me know, thanks! more

Resolved Question: Where's a good place to stay in Puerto Rico in the summer?

My family and i have decided to start planning our summer vacation as of now since last year we planned too late and most of the places we checked out in PR were already booked. Now, i would like to know of a nice place to stay for a family of four : 2 kids under 5 and my husband and i. A place near the beach preferably and with an outdoor pool. I would like to hear from ppl who have actually stayed in the places they might recommend and if the place has a website, i would like to know if it's close to the way it's pitched on the website. more

Resolved Question: Please answer. Im not sure what to do about this.?

My family isnt poor but we are lower middle class. My husband teaches at a comunity colledge and i dont work because i have 4 children, two have severe special needs. We live in a semi-wealthy area and my 2 children who dont have special needs go to a private school but we can only afford it because my husband teaches a class there so we get a discount and the school was kind enough to give us and additional 40% tuition break so we only pay 10% of the regular tuition. My two daughters that go to school are in 5th and 9th grade. My 5th grade daughter is "obese" according to doctors but she has a good personality. My 9th grade daughter is very shy and socially akward. There is a camp in the summer that several hundred youth groups go to in Panama City called Bigstuf. I got help from the church to afford to send my 9th grade daughter to it. When she got home, she said she liked it but signup started last week for this summer and I told my daughter i was going to sign her up to go to it and she begged me not to. After a little prodding, I got her to tell me why. She said all the other kids were rich, snobby, stuck-up, and just plain mean. I was shocked because it took a lot of saving to get enough money to send her to that camp and me and my husband had to give up a few things we wanted to do because we thought it would be an opportunity for her to get away from all that because thats what she faces at school. She said all the girls in the room she stayed in were private school cheerleaders and she tried to make friends with them but all they wanted to do was tan and meet boys. At Bigstuf, everyone in your room is in your youthgroup which I am now thankful for. She said the group time was kind of fun because there were adults around but during the several hours of free time each day where you can go swimming in the pool or ocean or play on the beach etc. was terrible because the chaprones werent around for most of that time. She said all the kids there wore name brands like Abercrombie and Hollister etc. and most of them had those Apple cell phones but they all had cell phones and ipods and videogames and laptops to use on the bus ride there. She said she didnt go swimming once because she knew she would get make fun of because she in not tan and she has a modest swimsuit. Im not sure what to do but im very mad about this. We were saving up for a family vacation but we spent it on this. I want to go talk to the youth minister and the paster about this. Should I? What else should I do about this? Me and my husband are thinking about leaving this church. And why do middle and high school kids need cell phones? I dont even own one and my husband uses a pre paid phone.Its a huge camp that has 7 1 week sessions with several thousand kids at each sesson. Its a shame that noone out of 2000 kids would befriend her. more

Resolved Question: Should we leave this church?

Voting Question: Have you ever been caught in just your lingerie?

Would like to know your experiences of being unexpectedly surprised by others when dressing/undressing, etc. Please describe in detail your and the others reactions. Here is my story. Enjoy it!!! My name is Patricia and at that time I was 28 years old and had just married two month before. I had gone to my parents' while they were on vacations to look for some stuff. It was pretty hot in summer, so as I was alone I stripped to my bra and panties. Half an hour later, when I was in the kitchen drinking some water, I heard the living-room door opening and somebody coming in. I knew that my mother, as usual, had given the keys to her neighbour for watering the plants during the time she would be out. I asked: "Are you, María?" and her voice anwered: "Yes, that's me". So I went to the hall to meet her and to my great surprise... she had come with her 13 years old son. I was wearing just a little sexy set of black lace lingerie. It all happened so quick that nobody could react and I only could say, "Sorry, I didn't notice that your son was with you". Due to the fact that María and my mother were very close friends, and for avoiding comments about my nudity, I tried to explain her what I was doing there. After two minutes (for me they seemed to be two hours) I saw the boy's face. He was absolutely delighted staring fixedly at me. It was obvious that it was the first time he was in front of an almost-nude woman. I knew him many years since. My brother had given him maths classes. Beside of this, our families had gone together for vacations to the seaside, so he had an idea how well I looked in a bikini (I used to be a tennis player). But I think you will agree with me that it is not the same to be seen by everybody at the beach in a swimsuit than to be exposed and surprised in just bra and panties in a place where it was supposed that nobody would be!!! Because of the boy attitude, I began to feel uncomfortable and turned red with embarrassment. I told them that I'd better got dressed and turned round and walked all the way to the bedroom making a big mistake because I also gave him a full rear view. Do you know how many times I wondered why María didn't send her son out of the room? We never talked about that but I think that probably she was as surprised as me. Or maybe she tried to be respectful and didn't want to rule in other's home or she discretely didn't want to draw his attention to my particular state of dressing. Perhaps she thought that I didn't mind so, why should they? I'm not that shameless!! When talking to my best friends (girls) about this episode they told me that coming to receive somebody in my underwear was something silly, surprisingly careless or exceptionally naive. Any input/tasteless jokes/comments/making fun of me greatly appreciated!!! more

Resolved Question: Where's a good place in the US to go for vacation?

My family and I are looking for a place to go for summer vacation, but we're coming up short on ideas. We've thought about Washington, New York, Arizona/desert/Grand Canyon, and California. We still want other options though. I live in Florida and I've been to the beach a bunch and I've been to Disney a thousand times, so try and make your suggestions somewhere out of Florida. more

Resolved Question: Need vacation spot recommendations?

I need recommendations on where to go for vacation this summer. My family and I usually go to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina the last week of May every year. But my sister, who's 16, doesn't want to go back this year, because she thinks it's too "old." Does anyone have any suggestions for a beach/vacation place to go to, somewhere that has more things for "teens" to do? Preferably somewhere on the south-east cost of the U.S more

Resolved Question: WHAT SHOULD I WRITE ON MY "VACATION FLING'S" WALL?

While i was on vacation with my family, we realized that family friends of ours were stating at our hotel, and they were here with friends. I am 14, and in both of the families, there were 2, 14 year old boys. One of them was super hot. One night, one of them txted me asking if i wanted to chill with them later that night, with another guy i knew from summer camp. I went and for around a week this pattern continued. the night before they left, the guy that i had become friends with * the really hot one) asked me to make out with him. We made out on the beach, and it was so cute and romantic. He lives in the same city as i do, but on opposite ends. I have talked to him since, and he invited me to his party he will be throwing in like a month and a bit. I really still like him, and i think he still likes me to because he recorded songs, and sent them to me through a friend when he got back from the trip. I have not seen him yet. I want to write on his wall, and to be cutesy and flirty, but i have no clue what to write. HELLPP! more

Resolved Question: Best place to stay with a family near Tampa?

I'm planning a summer family vacation to Florida (from the UK) and we're thinking of spending some time in the Tampa area. There are literally thousands of vacation rentals in the region - ranging from condos in gated developments to large villas - and I haven't the first clue as to what area(s) are going to be best for us. We have a young family (kids of seven and ten) so the beaches around Clearwater are tempting - but is that the best area in which to stay? We'll have a car so it's not going to be particularly important for the big attractions to be right on the doorstep - but we would probably want to have basic amenities (shops, restaurants etc) nearby, so we're not looking for somewhere that's tucked away in a backwater. Any ideas as to some reasonably high-quality neighborhoods that we should be focusing our research on? I've heard of places like Indian Shores, Indian Rocks, St Petersburg, Madeira Beach - but I have no idea which ones are nice and which are not so good! Thanks! Tim PS - next I will be asking about Orlando area, as we will be wanting to spend some time there, too!By the way, we'll be staying in some sort of self-catering unit - a house, apartment or condo. Oh, and some of the places we've looked at so far are Palm Harbor (on the lakeshore) and Oldsmar. Thanks for the tips so far! more

Resolved Question: What Beach is better for a family vacation?

My family is planning a vacation this summer. Funds are tight, we're looking for a fun filled, week long vacation the we can all enjoy without breaking the bank. I have small children, so we need to go to a family friendly location.If anyone know of a reputable agency or realtor, please pass that info along. Thanks:-) With 4 kids we can make our own excitement. As long as our kids enjoy thier selves we really don't have a preference as to where we go. more

Resolved Question: I want to start getting ideas for a summer vacation with my husband and kids?

I line in Buffalo New York and want to plan a trip out of state since never have been out of state before.Sot his summer want to go some where with the he family.I have a 8 year old and a 3 year old.I want something where we can go and just tour and shop things like that maybe a beach or something along them lines.I would be driving so nothing to far out.And something not to high in price.Anyone have any ideas? more

Resolved Question: What is the name of this movie?

I watched it a few years ago on abc family and i loved it. It tells about two families that both rent the same beach house one summer at the same time and have no other choice than to both spend the vacation there. The parents are both single and i think they have three kids each. The woman is getting married, but eventually falls in love with the male and they get married. If it helps, there is a scene at a party and the father is dancing to mambo no. 5 with the daughter. Thank you so much if you can help. more

Resolved Question: if you were going on a vacation to california in the summer, where is the best place to go?

a bunch of my relatives are wanting to go on a vacation to california, where is a good place to go? we like hiking and the beach and shopping and seeing new sights. we cant go clubbing as some old people will be going with us and they want us to have "family time" so that is out. what is a good place in california to see? more

Voting Question: When is the best time to vacation in the Outer Banks, Carova Beach?

We are looking to take a family vacation in the Outer Banks next summer and we were wondering based on experience what people's suggestions are on time to go, what to do, where to stay...etc. Any suggestions would be very helpful! more

Resolved Question: Can someone PLEASE translate this paragraph to Spanish for me?? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE :)?

My family and I went to the Bahamas for a summer vacation, we went on a plane that took us from San Antonio to Florida, and from florida we got on a smaller plane that took us to the Bahamas. We stayed there for four nights. After settling in the first day, the vacation soon began. We went scuba diving, ate all types of different foods and tryed lots of fun activity's while hanging out at the beach and the hotel. When the time came to leave back home, nobody wanted to leave. more

Resolved Question: Where is A good vacation spot for my friends and I to visit this summer?

Me and 10 of my closest friends (a mix between boys and girls) are all wanting to take a beach vacation this summer. Rent a condo, and just have fun for a week. My family always visits Hilton Head Island every summer, and I enjoy it there. I thought about us all going down there, but am not sure....any ideas of good close vacation spots? I live in Ohio, and would want somewhere not to far to drive. more

Voting Question: How can i get well defined abs in 20 weeks?

I'm 18 years old. Over the summer I lost 20lbs (went from 180 to 160) by cutting calories to 1200 per day, and now I've increased my calorie limit to a level where I can maintain my weight. I wanna take advantage of my age while I can gain some good muscle tone. I have 20 weeks until a big beach vacation with all my family, and I would like to impress. What are some exercises (no weights preferably, cant afford gym or weights, although I do have a Shwinn Comp {knock-off bow-flex}) that will get me abs by then? Also, I know biceps and triceps exercises, but how can I increase my forearm size? Arms are looking a little skinny... Please, be as detailed as you can. Thanks! more

Resolved Question: Parents do you plan on taking a family vacation this coming summer?

If so where are you guys going? We want to really go to Myrtle Beach this summer..we are planning on doing it..its just going to be so expensvie..we live 8-10 hours away from the beach (we will have a 4, 3 and 3month old baby when we go so thats why it takes longer for us to get there).. We also go on tons of mini trips..we go camping, boating, zoo trips, black water falls, seneca rocks, places like that!! Are you taking your kids on any vacations or mini trips this coming year?Chicken2~lol its expensive to us cause when I go on a vacation I don't want to cook that is my only week break so we go out and eat every day and we do all the attractions like the aquarium, dixie stampede, the water park..so yes its very expensive for us..lol more

Resolved Question: A romantic trip to the Florida keys?

My husband and I have known each other for 6 years but recently got married June 12th 2009. We didn't get to have our honey moon because we over spent on the wedding so we put it off and made it a smaller family vacation. We are saving up for this summer to go on a short 4 day get away. We would like to go somewhere tropical and romantic like the florida keys and go to the beach and spend a lot of romantic time. We don't really want to go to any parks because even though they are fun they always end up being more tiring then romantic and relaxing. We expect to pay around $1,500 (or less)(hotel, food, trinkets ect). We are planning on driving there seeing as we live in Florida and its only about 5-6hrs away. So do you have any advice on where to go or what we can do together? Thanx! p,s 10 points for detailed place to go and links. more