History, Relaxation & Rejuvenation ~ The Promises of Rocheport, Missouri

The purpose of taking a stress free vacation is to relax our minds enough to get at what is deep inside our heads. Then we can convert the raw material of our ideas into something usable and meaningful. Going to a relaxing getaway has helped many people solve all kinds of business challenges and problems. A relaxing retreat can help generate ideas for work, home and family.

Rocheport, Missouri is a great off-the-beaten-track destination for those travelers who are looking for relaxation. It is a place far removed from the noise and commotion of city life. Here, our brains can think deeper, more thoroughly and more introspectively than under regular circumstances. The benefits of this getaway bring clarity, focus, productivity and new attitudes to our thinking. Obstacles in our mind are miraculously cleared.

Rocheport has an interesting history. It was a trading post for Native Americans and travelers in the 1800's. Lewis and Clark led an expedition to the point where the Missouri River and Moniteau Creek converge. In his personal notebook, Clark commented on the flora, fauna and pictographs he saw on the bluffs. Some historic structures still stand.

Conrad Yates, is the owner and innkeeper of Yates House Bed and Breakfast in Rocheport, Missouri. "Visitors come here to escape their average stressful lives," he explains. "People work too hard, and the demands are great. Having children is stressful. Parents have to deal with sports, school, and their appointments. It is challenging, so people love coming to a small town where the pace is different. It is much more relaxed," he concludes.

"Tourists don't have to drive their car anywhere," Yates continues. Rocheport is a beautiful place to stay. There is wonderful food to eat and they are not distracted by all the stuff going on. Couples get to pay attention to each other." He remarks.

Time away can be a potent adventure that challenges us to step back and evaluate our lives and personal decisions. It engages our innermost imagination and creativity. As Conrad Yates reiterates, "Many couples have lived for years in overstressed situations. They love themselves dearly, but forget it along the way. Here in Rocheport, the pressure is off, and everything is wonderful," he explains. "They actually notice each other again in a way they haven't noticed each other before. It is wonderful to watch a couple touch bases again. They come here and re-connect. I have watched it happen and I see it and feel it very deeply as part of what we do."

A vacation helps us to become more articulate about our ideas, and shows us how to become unique and creative. We can access knowledge we may have forgotten, and can cut resistance that allows for breakthrough idea generation.

How often do we wind up at a destination and don't have a clue about what to see or where to go? With an innkeeper's experience and knowledge, the problem is addressed immediately.

Mr. Yates informs us, "Our biggest travel category is couples getaway. We try to help them plan their activities. We give them a great couples experience." He elaborates, "We try to make sure that the guy has a great time. It is really not hard to do. Everything falls right into place. They respond, ‘Gosh, this is great, this is awesome, we will come back.' That is the very best compliment a business can get."

FEATURED PROPERTY: The Yates House Bed and Breakfast of Rocheport, Missouri is casual, quiet, unpretentious, comfortable, and superbly located in a historic town. The grounds and facilities are easy on the eyes, and a relaxing atmosphere is evident throughout the inn. Yates House is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy and rejuvenation. The inn encompasses all the warmth and charm of refined accommodations. It is a truly unique creation meant to be enjoyed by anyone searching for peace of mind. Starting from the splendid architecture of the inn, to the labor of love on the details inside, this is not a B & B inn to be taken for granted. More importantly, the service is considered warm, welcoming, and impeccable. Honeymooners come here to create memories that last a lifetime.

Anniversary couples return year after year to escape from the everyday pressures of work and the hustle and bustle of city life. They come to spend quality time with each other. The Yates House Bed and Breakfast is the perfect getaway for visitors whose ideal vacation is to just sit back and relax, but it is also the best vacation possible for those who want to shop, hike, bike, dine and enjoy the activities available in town.

Columbia is just 15 minutes away. The inn is midway (2 hour drive) between Kansas City and St. Louis, two miles north of Highway I-70. The inn is happy to accommodate special dietary requests, such as for vegetarian, low-fat, gluten-free, or low-sugar meals.

Upon arrival into the common area, visitors are familiarized with the property, and the history of the inn. The staff makes guests feel welcome with a tour. Before being escorted to their rooms, the staff explains the breakfast routine, other particulars and activities available in the area.

The Yates House B & B is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity. Just gaze at the beautiful blooming gardens situated around the property. It is a place where you can spend relaxing times with good friends.

SUMMARY: The B & B is a prime property located in historic Rocheport, Missouri. The recently built (1991) B & B is a reproduction of an 1850's roadside inn. It offers the tranquility and comfort of the country, yet is near all the city conveniences. You can watch geese and bald eagles soaring close by. The inn features sumptuous dining including a fantastic two-course breakfast. This along with great service makes for a delightful B & B experience.

ROOMS: The rooms are immaculately clean, spacious, comfortable and airy, decorated with tasteful decor and elegant furniture. Some rooms have a fireplace, a sitting area, and a jetted tub. The backyard gazebo offers superb views of the property overlooking gardens, trees, and star-filled nights. One room has a private entrance. Rooms come equipped with free WiFi, cable TV and DVD player. Bathrobes and signature toiletries are provided along with hairdryers. Some rooms have refrigerators.

Heirlooms, antiques, and local artwork evident throughout the property, provide a glimpse into the regional culture. The property has several small gardens. All during your stay you can partake of complimentary coffee, tea, and beverages. Ghirardelli Chocolates are placed in the room.

SERVICE: Great service with a warm smile. The Innkeepers are well known for their genuine hospitality. The innkeepers are knowledgeable and provide efficient service to all of their guests.

AMENITIES: Known for an exceptional, and hearty two-course breakfast. Crème brulee French toast, and frittatas, are some of the items served. The owner collects antique furnishings that are interspersed around the house. The great room common area is the ideal reading room for visitors. It's a peaceful room with a variety of magazines and DVD's. People like to read on the porches or gazebo. 24 hours a day, coffee, hot tea, hot chocolate (in winter), beverages, baked cookies are available in the common area. There is a refrigerator, with beverages, in the common area. A bicyclist lunch can be provided upon request. The innkeeper, Dixie is a gourmet cook. Gourmet cooking classes are offered to guests on weekends or by customer arrangement.

LOCATION: The location is flawless for those who want to get away and feel removed from everyday anxiety and stress. The location is so convenient and comfortable that it is tempting to just stay inside and relax, but don't do it. There is a lot to see and do in the area. The inn is easy walking distance to restaurants, wineries, sightseeing, and local culture. When you feel like stretching your legs a bit more, the Katy Trail State Park, 225 mile rails to trail path, is one block away. Anheuser Busch Warm Spring Ranch of Clydesdale Horses is 10 minutes away. There are a few small galleries in town. Jewelry, quilts, local products, antiques and paintings are available in town.

CLEANLINESS: The inn is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The gardens with natural plantings throughout are attractive. The beds and herb gardens on the property are well maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides excellent value with a sense of town & country elegance. The rooms are designed to make guests feel relaxed, and cozy. The personal attention makes the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The staff is helpful without being intrusive."

To learn more about finding contentment: ~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a writer, keynote guest speaker, lecturer and award-winning author of "Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment" and "Precious Gifts of Love" ~ self-help, motivational, and inspirational books available on Amazon. (Reviews 4.5-5 Stars / Look Inside) C.J. Good writes on topics about finding and cultivating contentment in seven key life areas. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader's lives. How we can feel better about ourselves and how we can interact with one another is the basis for ultimate contentment. Values such as integrity, love, compassion, understanding and inner peace are inherent in the writings of C.J. Good ~ Twitter: GoodAffirmation

CONTACT: Dixie & Conrad Yates, Innkeepers, Yates House Bed & Breakfast, Rocheport, MO 65279. Phone: 573-698-2129 ~ www.yateshouse.com

Sell More Books With Amazon Listing Optimization.

Sell More Books With Amazon Listing Optimization. How To Promote Your Book On Amazon. You Want Your Book To Be Tagged On Amazon.

Authors, here are two free and easy action steps you can take to sell and market your books: If someone clicks on Amazon tags on your book page, you will have better numbers. If you receive helpful votes on your reviews, you will gain tremendous visibility.

1) Helpful Votes ~ “Helpful votes” pertains to star reviews written. Helpful voting is essential as it informs Amazon about which books need to be paid special attention to. Say your book had 2 reviews, each with 2 or 3 helpful votes. This is definitely better than zero helpful votes.

Now imagine if everyone that read this article voted on your reviews. All of a sudden these two votes could grow to 50 or 100 helpful votes. This would grab Amazon’s attention and could give your book the credit it deserves.

2) Tagging ~ Tagging is similar to voting but slightly different.

Amazon will allow users to select fifteen key words they feel should be associated with a book. The user can post those to that product on its Amazon page. For example, if a customer enjoyed a Children’s Book, he or she could tag that book with keywords like: bedtime story, great read, book recommendation, fairy tales, kids age 5-10, or any similar keywords that describe the book. Here is what tags look like on an Amazon page:

When a user enters these “tags” or agrees with “existing tags” a number in parenthesis is displayed. This number indicates how many times Amazon users have used this keyword to describe a product. Each keyword/tag (if you click on it) will take you directly to a community. In this community the books with the most tags are displayed in order of popularity.

If you go, for example, to the Amazon page for “Precious Gifts of Love:”

http://www.amazon.com/Precious-Gifts-Love-C-J-Good/dp/1453720502

You will see this book currently has 15 tags. That is a good number to have as each Amazon user can only vote up to 15 keyword/tags per book. You will also see the number of times people agreed with these keyword/tags.

For instance let’s take the tag “inspirational” ~ this tag has 6 agreeing votes.

Click on the link inspirational and you will be taken to that community. Here is the link:

http://www.amazon.com/tag/inspirational?ref_=tag_dpp_cust_itdp_t&store=1

When you browse around you can see which books are being featured as the top books for this community.

“Outlive Your Life” is number 1 with 289 votes, “Revelations” is ranked number 7 with 97 votes. If "Revelations" got more than 98 votes for the key word "inspiration," it would be one of the best ranked books in that community.

Here is how tagging can benefit you directly. When you tag a large amount of products on Amazon, you become a contributor on the community page. If you tag 20-30 items, your picture profile could be displayed there.

Amazon is all about interconnectivity. Thus everyone who comes to this community will see your picture feature for having tagged numerous products with that keyword.

Amazon is a new channel for distribution and is still a little baffling. Authors will serve themselves well to use these methods for promoting and ranking their books. It is entirely possible for a writer to increase sales and visibility if he or she is willing to spend a few minutes everyday.

In this environment, authors are becoming self-promoters and marketers. They should construct an intelligent marketing plan that contains 3-4 marketing strategies.

For the next twelve months ~ put your energy and effort into marketing your book every day. Give this process everything you have got before you make a judgment as to whether things are working or not. Patience is essential.

Tagging and voting is part of having an Amazon optimization program. Because Amazon is so new and such a leader in this type of arena, authors should pursue it with enthusiasm. Words cannot express how important participating on Amazon is. Never before has there been such an outlet where an author can make a substantial difference in propelling sales of his or her own work. It is up to you how successful you want to be, your actions will make it happen.

This blog has initiated a free program to help fellow authors called: Reciprocal Tagging. The way it works is: We will tag your book with 15 keywords, if you will please Tag ours.

Would you like to submit your book to be tagged?

1) Provide a list of 15 keywords separated by commas so we can copy and paste it.

2) Provide the Amazon link (URL) to your book.

3) Provide your name, website and email address in case we have questions.

(15 tags maximum allowed)

4) To tag our books, please click the links below:

BOOK #1: http://www.amazon.com/Little-Gifts-Sustainable-Contentment-1/dp/145284416X

BOOK #2: http://www.amazon.com/Precious-Gifts-Love-C-J-Good/dp/1453720502

KINDLE #1: http://www.amazon.com/Precious-Gifts-of-Love-ebook/dp/B0046RELMG

KINDLE #2: http://www.amazon.com/Little-Gifts-Sustainable-Contentment-ebook/dp/B003V8BKAW/

5) Copy our tag list and paste it in the TT area (light gray print ~ "Tag this product window") underneath the "add tags" box on the book page. Don't use the "add tags" box as it tends to cut off the keywords. Click enter.

6) Also click the "like" logo next to book titles.

7) Click: "agree with these tags?"

8) Note: Kindles and Paperbacks must be tagged individually. (Here is our tag list)

gift ideas,sustainable gifts,special gifts,christmas,NY Times Bestseller list,bestsellers,self-help,love,relationships,inspirational,spirituality,travel deals,airlines,romance,kindle

For reciprocity, please provide your details in the same format:

Send via email:

goodconnie@sustainablecontentment.com

www.sustainablecontentment.com

Or post on this blog in comments for other authors to see.

The Compelling Life Of A Rock Star Legend: “Life” By Keith Richards.

Dear Friends and Readers: (Amazon Book Review) "Life" is the story of Keith Richards, co-founder and guitarist with the Rolling Stones ~ a rock band popular from the late 1960's to the early 2000's. The book devotes itself to the issue of why the band was successful riding a wave of accomplishments while other groups were stumbling or spinning their wheels without getting much traction. In other words, many of us lack the commitment to fulfill our dreams or we fall into the trap of being indifferent. Being impassive can result in desolation, stagnation, and creative barrenness.

Some performers like Keith Richards were fortunate to be born with the gift of a creative imagination, and keen sense of adventure. Even luckier, he was blessed with a good sense of wanderlust which enabled him to explore interesting destinations in a variety of countries. This exposed him to different forms of musical expression, influenced his writing and expanded his repertoire. He learned many technical skills from blues musicians in America. They demonstrated different ways of tuning, showed him other types of strings and introduced him to new guitar sounds. Life is one of those special journeys for the very privileged - who want to know what it felt like to be with Keith Richards and his band, The Rolling Stones.

Keith offers his readers a great deal of striking revelations rolled into an entertaining assortment of recollections. His sharp-humored charm will at times make you laugh and other times cry, however, in the end readers will be greatly satisfied with Richard's strong sense of honesty and down-to-earth retrospection.

Keith goes into fascinating detail pertaining to his creative process. I had no idea he was responsible for so many of my favorite Rolling Stones songs. As a matter of fact, after he explained the basis for writing a particular tune, I would immediately access YouTube to hear it performed. That added much richness to the story.

He discusses other topics such as communication with other band members, musicians he met along the way, how to listen and work with discipline, band hierarchy and management, empathy for his audience, band team work, combating complacency, and the thrill of performance.

His natural human qualities proved to be useful: he was motivated to play the music he loved, unselfish towards band mates, appreciative of others, praised his contemporaries, and was highly involved in all aspects of operating a world-class rock band.

Exploring his inner thoughts and outer persona, Keith reflects on his past and present life touching on various aspects of the human condition: love, death, children, illness, divorce, aging, drugs, fear, recovery, success, loss, father and son relationships and a host of other familiar topics.

Because the author is a person with flexibility, patience, initiative, and humility, I was able to assess the impact of some of Keith's perceptions on my own life, career and relationships.

Life is certainly a lively and challenging recollection that no doubt will provide its readers with much entertaining insights about life as a rock star. The information is presented in a way that is user friendly. The breadth of the musings is quite remarkable as they are conveyed in a form that permits readers to thoroughly savor and digest.

Many autobiography books will omit or gloss over details on important past mistakes, scandals or failures. Keith was open, forthright and honest and this is what makes his book engaging. It will no doubt appeal to the millions of rock fans who can now more fully appreciate his contributions to modern culture.

Reviewed by: C.J. Good, Author Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment and Precious Gifts of Love - 366 one-minute daily reflections that cultivate love, contentment and personal growth. Available on Amazon. 4.5-5 Stars.

A Destination That Generates Contentment

Dear Friends and Readers: We all wish to attain moments of peace, patience, love, trust, certainty, exuberance, acceptance, joy, achievement, and would be happy to remove the stress and anxiety of everyday living. Stress has a life cycle. It is triggered, it festers, lives, then dies, and new attitudes replace it.

No matter how successful we are at work, any satisfaction gained from our achievement is enormously diminished unless we are in a peaceful state of mind.

The quality of life in our society is based on the attainment of sustainable contentment for all times and under all circumstances. Basically, sustainable contentment is dependent on the acquisition of attitudes and paradigms that limit the excesses of negative behavior and thinking. This standard ensures a climate of happiness and productivity; and permits us to express integrity and love.

When one explores the ramifications of living a life filled with stress and anxiety, one will conclude that bold steps are needed if we want to protect our health and well-being. Choosing to take a break from our busy lives can be a challenging decision, but one that is worthwhile. Let us look at the foundation of our life: Where are we now? Where are we going? What is our role in the world? Who are we? What do we know with certainty? Taking a break allows us to find clarity and answers. We may discover: How we can succeed; how we can live a life of goodness; how we can improve our relationships; how we can contribute to society; and how we should interrelate with others.

Most of us would agree that the mind leaves us with little or no control when we are swept up by stressful emotions. It is important to address our anxiety because if we don’t, it might make our relationships unhealthy and unsatisfying.

One of the primary errors that potential travelers make is to take for granted some of the lesser-known, small town destinations. Due to the immensity and complexity of large cities, sometimes it is more advantageous to visit a quieter locale. In this slower-paced environment, travelers find it easier to foster solace and inner peace.

If we are to cultivate contentment, it involves the necessity to change our thinking and perceptions so new attitudes will emerge.

If you wish to attain contentment within yourself, with your family, your work and your surroundings, then consider taking a getaway to Danville, Ohio, in the Amish Country. It is a neat little place that makes full use of nature's beauty. Imagine visiting a rural place near an historic village – that is relaxing and joyful to visit. Local inhabitants traverse the roads in horses and buggies. Once we perceive it, we can achieve it. This is the elemental principle behind the power of positive thinking.

Yvonne Martin, Innkeeper of The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio told me: “We had a young man in his early thirties who wanted to stay with us. His wife had died a few months earlier. Our inn was the last place they had stayed together. At first he was very quiet. He read, wandered the property, and enjoyed the outdoors a lot. We allowed him to talk. We let him talk about his life. He went out for long walks. This rejuvenated him. He became happy again, and was ready to go and face the family without her.”

Taking a getaway to Ohio Amish Country certainly provides an enticing opportunity to renew, rejuvenate and refresh. For people suffering with stress, this area will contribute to the healing of mind, body and spirit. For travelers who savor dipping into a destination that makes them feel at peace, this journey will be valued. Amish Country is a place that takes the visitor to unexplored crossroads. The area is filled with fresh and surprising opportunities that will certainly resonate for weeks and months after travelers come home.

Escaping our stressful routine and staying at a charming bed and breakfast inn can be simple and fun. The time away allows us to excavate down to our deeper selves. However, we can only derive maximum benefit if we are willing and determined to focus on renewing, recharging and rejuvenating. The destination beckons us to look through a different set of lenses - that leads to a more satisfying life.

Yvonne of The White Oak Inn shared with us, “We have a couple that stays with us very frequently. The husband has a fatal illness. The wife brings him here because we make him laugh, and there is little of that elsewhere.” She continues, “We treat him like other guests and he is getting a respite. We don’t treat him with pity; he can be normal here. He loves to come and rest. They go shopping. They are trying to cram thirty five years of experience into one year.”

After a few days in Amish Country, one's affection for the place gradually blossoms. After trying out some of the restaurants, you can hear the patrons sigh, as if they have just experienced a TV cooking show in their imagination.

It takes a bit of imagination to go on a unique adventure. And what makes us willing participants is our ability to put all the right elements in place. Staying at a bed and breakfast inn makes things easy. A talented innkeeper can seamlessly interweave an itinerary that contains all the right components; so we can enjoy both the destination, and the journey itself. Never turn down help from an innkeeper - thank them and accept their suggestions; everyone could use a friend who is familiar with the region.

Yvonne of The White Oak Inn remarks, “We have guests who are busy doctors in major cities. They want to be in a pretty, peaceful, quiet place, away from phone, and the whole medical experience. They just rest and enjoy the quiet.” Continues Yvonne, “Another couple has been having chemo therapy. Every time she finishes a bout of arduous treatment, her husband brings her to the inn. They just spend time alone together. We deliver dinner baskets to them. Our inn is relaxing and all the stress they are experiencing goes away. We have massage therapists that come in and they both get massages and pampering.”

There are numerous ways visitors can appreciate the region. Walkers, hikers, rollerbladers, and bikers can enjoy The Kokosing Gap Trail that runs from Danville to Mount Vernon, and is very scenic. The Mohican Valley Trail, which runs from Danville to Holmes County features a 370 foot long “Bridge of Dreams” over the Mohican River. There is a Hiawatha Water Park in Mount Vernon open in summer. In the winter, the Snow Trails ski area, about 20 minutes away from Danville, offers snow activities. The Mohican-Memorial State Forest is a 4,498-acre park that offers hiking, horseback riding and camping. There is canoeing, kayaking, zip lining, golfing and wildlife viewing nearby. Ice cream factory tours, museums, wine tasting, farmers’ markets, fairs, pottery shops, entertainment, music & arts festivals, pow-wow’s, shows, demonstrations and rides are available seasonally.

Holmes County is home to the gentle Amish - a people with humongous hearts who love unconditionally. They are a people with very little in the way of worldly possessions, but are happy, peaceful and kind internally. Everything they produce is made by hand and from scratch. Foods are fresh from the farm. Some of their specialties include shoe-fly pie, maple brown sugar molasses pie, doughnuts, and woopie pie (shaped like an ice cream sandwich.) The Amish make their own candy, and pretzels. They don't want to promote anything in life that has a negative impact. They run their factories on steam using belts and pulleys. They are known for their handmade quilts, fine wood products, cheeses and baked goods.

FEATURED PROPERTY: It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio are easy on the eyes, and a relaxing atmosphere is evident throughout the inn. More importantly, the service is considered warm, welcoming, and impeccable, overall. Prior to arriving, guests typically receive an email from the inn asking if they have any special requests or needs. They are happy to accommodate special dietary requests, such as for vegetarian, low-fat, or low-sugar meals.

Upon arrival, the innkeepers, Ian or Yvonne Martin, escort their visitors into the common area. Hosts familiarize guests with the property, the history and make them feel welcome with a tour. Hosts explain the breakfast routine, other particulars and activities available in the area, before escorting guests to their rooms. Ian and Yvonne are known to be nothing but smiles. The next day they will most likely remember every guest’s name.

The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity - just gaze at the beautiful blooming gardens situated around the property. It is a place where you can spend relaxing times with good friends.

SUMMARY: The White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio is a prime property nestled amongst Amish Farms. You can hear the geese calling in the distance. Some rooms have a fireplace, separate sitting area, and large Jacuzzi tub. In addition to regular rooms, guests can stay at a Guest House, or Log Cabin Cottage, away from the main inn, which gives visitors a sense of privacy, space and romance. The inn features sumptuous dining including a fantastic three course breakfast. This along with great service makes for a delightful B & B experience.

ROOMS: In addition to the spacious comfort, the rooms are immaculately clean, decorated with tasteful decor and furniture. Porches offer superb views of the property and mesmerizing vistas overlooking Amish and Mennonite Farms; trees, star-filled nights and sunsets. Some rooms have private entrances. Rooms come equipped with free WiFi, cable TV and DVD player.

All during your stay you can partake of complimentary tea, and beverages. Upon request rooms come with a lovely bouquet of flowers and gold wrapped chocolates.

Local and custom artwork and handicrafts are evident throughout the rooms, which provide a glimpse into local and regional culture.

SERVICE: Great service with a warm smile. The innkeepers are well known for their genuine hospitality. The hosts are knowledgeable and provide efficient service to all of their guests.

AMENITIES: Known for an exceptional, and hearty three-course breakfast, Decadent Nutella and white chocolate French toast, and baked turkey & apple sausage, are some of the items served. The owners collect Amish furnishings and quilts that are interspersed around the property. The house dates from the early 1900’s. The parlor is the ideal reading room for visitors. It is a peaceful room with a variety of different books. The property has relaxing porches, one with a glider rocker that overlooks the river valley. From the porch guests can gaze at Amish buggies trotting by. People like to read on the porch. Upon request, the innkeeper can provide refreshments. 24 hours a day, Hot tea, iced tea and baked goods are served in the in the common room.

LOCATION: The location is flawless for those who want to get away and feel removed from everyday anxiety and stress, yet close to town to enjoy shopping, restaurants, wineries, and Amish culture. The inn provides an incomparable sense of well-being. Shopping is a few miles away, as are some of the well-established galleries. Jewelry, quilts, Amish products, antiques and paintings are available in town.

CLEANLINESS: The inn is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The gardens with natural plantings throughout are attractive. The beds and herb gardens on the property are well maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides excellent value with a sense of town & country elegance, comfort and warmth. The rooms are designed to make guests feel relaxed, and cozy. The personal attention makes the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The innkeepers are helpful without being intrusive. ~~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

About the Author:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a freelance writer, keynote guest speaker, and author of two books about finding and cultivating contentment. "Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment" (Reviews 4.5 Stars, Look Inside) is available on Amazon. C.J. Good speaks and consults on a variety of subjects ranging from marketing, to technology, to relationship building. C.J. Good also gives keynotes on travel topics, health issues, and the generation x/y marketplace. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader's lives. C.J. Good was a marketing executive in the travel industry for 17 years; and a successful business development expert. ~~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

CONTACT: The White Oak Inn Bed and Breakfast, Ian and Yvonne Martin, Innkeepers, 29683 Walhonding Road (State Route 715), Danville, Ohio (OH) 43014. Local Telephone: 740-599-6107 | Toll Free: 1-877-908-5923, www.whiteoakinn.com

Articles Source: Ohio Amish Country: A Bed and Breakfast Experience That Generates Contentment.

Find Contentment In The Seychelles

Dear Friends and Readers: Royal newlyweds Prince William and Kate are honeymooning on Descroches Island in the Seychelles and will also spend time on North Island.

The newly confirmed Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are seeking privacy in the Seychelles which are popular with many celebrities: Bill Gates visited. Also Paul McCartney, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Mick Jagger, Steven Tyler, David and Victoria Beckham have also stayed there. Former U.S. Presidents, sports stars, rock stars, artists, authors and captains of industry have succumbed to its charms.

A Seychelles honeymoon provides an intimate and romantic retreat getaway. It will beckon those with adventurous hearts. The soft feel of sand beneath one\'s feet, slipping between the toes, offers travelers a glimpse into the magic of these islands.

When the royal couple travels, they want to avoid overwhelming complexity. Simplicity is the key goal. And this is exactly what visitors can achieve with a Seychelles vacation.

The Seychelles is a country consisting of 115 islands located 932 miles east of Africa, and northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. It is a magnificent place where tourists can explore protruding bluffs and cliffs above the sea with flights of birds and breathtaking views to the ocean. Seychelles has everything that one could need for a relaxing stay. The setting is a fiesta for the eyes.

The coast is, in fact, a grandstand for an opulent show of nature\'s finest. Beguiling giant tortoises, exotic orchids, parakeets and parrots careen above, soaring colonies of seabirds ride the air currents along the coastline, crabs and reptiles live among the rocks, opulent hummingbirds whiz through flowers, and whales explore the waters. In the evening there are sunsets, the moon and the stars.

Will and Kate will enjoy taking private late afternoon strolls along the coast. Smelling the salt air, feeling the spray and watching the voluminous waves crash dramatically into rocks is a continual mental massage.

At night, the royal couple will be amazed by the heavens, as they have never seen them before. There are so many glittering stars; they will have had a hard time navigating their way through the constellations. Occasional shooting stars will be flaring in the Milky Way.

The Seychelles has miles of coastline and beaches. There are hotels, galleries and restaurants to explore. Plentiful amounts of seafood, cheeses, wines and tea are available. Recreational activities like biking, hiking, boogie boarding, surfing, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking are abundant and give tourists a flavor of island lifestyle.

The Seychelles Islands seduces those who are looking for clear-cut relief from anxiety, pressure and stress. Rest, rejuvenation and relaxation are essential ingredients to the smooth running of a body, mind and spirit, whether royal or non-royal.

The owner of a relaxed property in a convenient Seychelles location, illustrates this. 'People tell us this place is their sanctuary,' he remarks, 'People feel like they are really getting away from the chaos and challenges of life.'

It is important to look at the consequences of a stressful celebrity lifestyle. In most cases, no matter what the symptoms may be; irritability, discomfort, emotional distress, frustration, anger, helplessness, and so forth, there is often one common denominator, the loss of physical energy resulting in fatigue. A resort owner in the Seychelles explains, 'We have repeat guests who work in the entertainment industry and work non-stop.' He continues, 'They come here regularly and spend 7-10 days. They say staying here is the one thing that helps renew their sanity. They are recharged so they can go back and face their high stress profession.'

Kate and William\'s honeymoon will provide a liberal amount of physical exercise and relaxation. At their local resort, the emphasis is on pampering and opportunities to engage in watersports and activities.

RESORT: It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of Will and Kate\'s island resort are easy on the eyes, and a tranquil atmosphere is evident throughout the property. More importantly, the service is considered warm, welcoming, and gracious.

Upon arrival, the host will familiarize the royal couple with the property, and escorts them to their villa. The host explains the meal routine, other particulars and activities available on the island. The resort is accommodating to anyone who has special dietary requests or food allergies.

The Seychelles Islands is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity. Will and Kate\'s resort is tucked away in a quiet, secluded area within a tropical setting. It is a place where they can spend easy times in good conversation with each other.

SUMMARY: Resort rooms have sitting areas, and private baths, usually with large whirlpool tubs. The resort\'s common areas feature decorative pieces, unique architectural details, local artworks, exotic plants and paintings by local artists. The location gives the royal couple a sense of privacy, space and romance. From the property, amazing star filled heavens can be viewed. They can also see beautiful mountains in the distance. This along with great service makes for a delightful honeymoon experience.

ROOMS: In addition to the comfort, the rooms are immaculately clean, each uniquely decorated with tasteful decor and furniture. Wide porches are furnished with relaxing chairs and have spectacular views. The property has WiFi, robes, and locally made toiletries.

SERVICE: Great service with a warm smile. The hosts are well known for their genuine hospitality. The staff is knowledgeable and provides efficient service to their guests.

LOCATION: The location is flawless for Will and Kate, who want to get away and feel removed from everyday anxiety and stress. Yet it is close enough to town to enjoy shopping, restaurants, galleries, and local culture. The resort provides an incomparable sense of comfort. The Seychelles Islands are a perfect area to ride bikes, hike or walk.

CLEANLINESS: The resort is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. Natural plantings, and flowerbeds are dispersed throughout the property and are beautifully maintained. Overall everything is quite picturesque.

The resort provides a sense of island elegance, comfort and warmth. The rooms are designed to make guests feel relaxed, and comfortable. The personal attention makes the difference. The royal couple appreciates being asked if they are comfortable. The hosts are enormously helpful without being intrusive.

~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

 

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/william-and-kates-royal-honeymoon-the-promise-of-the-seychelles-islands-4776292.html

About the Author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a freelance writer, keynote guest speaker, and author of two books about finding and cultivating contentment. 'Precious Gifts of Love' and 'Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment' (Reviews 4.5/5 Stars, Look Inside) are available on Amazon. C.J. Good\'s keynote addresses include: travel topics, health issues, generation x & y, and relationships. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader\'s lives. C.J. Good is a successful business development executive who worked in the travel industry for 17 years. ~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

Favorite All Time Bestselling Books ~ Made Into Movies

Here is a list of 40 favorite bestselling books that also became movies and/or TV series. In most cases readers saw the movie first and it was such a great story, they ended up reading the book as well.

1. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

"In theaters summer, 2011"

2. Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

"One of the great classic stories"

3. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace

"Gripping story"

4. Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff

"Classic Historical Epic"

5. War and Peace (Complete Version, Best Navigation, Active TOC) by Leo Tolstoy

"breathtaking story"

6. Headhunters by Jules Bass

"In theaters August 2011 under the title "Monte Carlo"

7. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

"Foreign version is outstanding. Including two sequeals."

8. Precious Gifts of Love by C.J. Good

"Explore the meaning and miracles of love through 366 daily reflections."

9. The Descendants: A Novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings

"Anticipate winter 2011 release"

10. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

"Anticipate winter 2011 release."

11. Breaking Dawn (The Twilight Saga, Book 4) by Stephenie Meyer "Twilight

"sequel expected in winter 2011"

12. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas

"A splendid story of redemption."

13. The Three Musketeers (Oxford World's Classics) by Alexander Dumas

"New movie coming out in Fall of 2011"

14. The Big Year: A Tale of Man, Nature, and Fowl Obsession by Mark Obmascik

"Should be out in October 2011"

15. The Thorn Birds: A Novel by Colleen McCullough

"A beautiful story. A classic."

16. Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

"One of the great stories of all time."

17. The Ginger Tree by Oswald Wynd

"A beautiful, transcendent story"

18. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

"Extraordinary story for readers of all ages."

19. Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment by C.J. Good

"Cultivate contentment on many levels."

20. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7) by J. K. Rowling

"Expect it to release in summer 2011"

t 21. Priest: Genesis (Priest Ultimate Edition) Volume 1 by Min-woo Hyung

"Summer 2011"

22. Water for Elephants: A Novel by Sara Gruen

"A moving, romantic story."

23. The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly

"A good story."

24. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

"A bbc mini series. Fabulous."

25. Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

"Very clever story. Surprise ending."

26. Dune, 40th Anniversary Edition (Dune Chronicles, Book 1) by Frank Herbert

"Very good sci-fi"

27. Eye of the Needle by Ken Follett

"Great WW2 spy thriller."

28. Precious (Push Movie Tie-in Edition) (Vintage Contemporaries) by Sapphire

"Great story because it is different."

29. The Buccaneers (Penguin Great Books of the 20th Century) by Edith Wharton

"Fabulous mini-series."

30. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

"Great story, fabulous movie."

31. Billy Elliot (New Windmills) by Lee Hall

"a good coming of age story."

32. Daniel Deronda (Oxford World's Classics) by George Eliot

"A wonderful movie in several parts."

33. The Way We Live Now (Oxford World's Classics) by Anthony Trollope

"Great BBC movie series."

34. He Knew He Was Right (Oxford World's Classics) by Anthony Trollope

"Another tremendous BBC mini series"

35. Sharpe's Tiger (Richard Sharpe's Adventure Series #1) by Bernard Cornwell

"Great BBC mini series."

36. Les Misérables: A Novel by Victor Hugo

"One of the greatest stories ever."

37. The Lover by Marguerite Duras

"fantastic story of viet nam"

38. The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

"A classic Edith Wharton story."

39. Perfume by Patrick Suskind

"Really amazing story. Brilliant."

40. Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert

"The book is better than the movie."

Enjoy History, Rejuvenation and Adventure: The Promises of Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Author:

C.J. Good
A getaway is important for our physical and emotional well-being. It can provide opportunities for a multitude of activities that are fun, educational and invigorating. If we are feeling stress and anxiety because of jobs, relationships, etc., it is crucial for each of us to occasionally break away from our normal environment.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas is located in the Ozark Mountains. The entire city, including its historic district, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

With its inexpensive and easy accessibility, this destination succeeds where so many other tourist areas of a similar nature fail. It is not only one of the most popular tourist locations in Arkansas, it manages to be an eye-opener with its wealth of activities and amenities.

Eureka Springs is a unique village of hills with steep winding streets that curve around lovely topography. The town is filled with historic Victorian-style cottages and manors. The buildings are well-preserved and are built from local stone.

The commercial district is filled with specialty shops, antique stores, more than 20 art galleries, coffee shops and cafes. Tourists can use the trolley service to get around town.

Eureka Springs began as a tourist destination in the late 1800\'s as a curative health spa. It was later promoted as a retirement area for those interested in gracious living and wealthy lifestyles. In 1882, a railroad was completed and Eureka Springs expanded to become a highly regarded vacation resort. Many beautiful Victorian buildings were erected during this period and have been lovingly preserved to this day.

The town is a popular area for artists and music lovers from around the world. Blues, jazz, folk, and classical music, each have a weekend festival dedicated to their genre. In the summer, Opera in the Ozarks performs operatic productions. There are poetry festivals, local theater productions, gay and lesbian diversity weekends, an annual UFO conference, motorcycle and auto shows. The May Fine Arts Festival and parade is also a popular event.

The city hosts gallery strolls, Shakespeare in the Ozarks, Books in Bloom, Grand Illumination, White Street Studio Walk, ART Car, The Passion Play and Music in the Park. The Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railroad operates vintage train excursions.

We need to recognize that we are our own masters and like the manager of a successful business, we must decide what we wish to accomplish. If we live under an umbrella of anxiety and stress, this can get in the way of accomplishing our dreams. Therefore, we need to create an action plan with ourselves; a plan or an agreement with ourselves that involves rest, rejuvenation and renewal. We also need to carry out the plan; verify results; make helpful changes; and remember to reward ourselves. These are the essential steps in becoming a rejuvenated individual.

Taking a getaway to a bed and breakfast inn in Eureka Springs can help us to become reinvigorated, and find new resources for understanding and managing stress symptoms. A trip that includes adventure, healthful eating and exercise, positive effects of nature and history will help us to recharge our batteries.

David Mitchell, the Innkeeper of Heart of the Hills Inn in Eureka Springs, Arkansas shares with us his wisdom in how we can become empowered by making good use of our getaway time. 'We host many couples who are wanting to step away from their lives for a short interlude to just de-stress. They don\'t have to get up; they don\'t have to get dressed. They can stay in their pajamas. The theme here is: relax, refresh, and romance. It is integrated in the inn and serves its purpose.'

Travelers to Eureka Springs learn how to navigate the area. They involve themselves in their own rest and relaxation, and learn to communicate more effectively with their loved-ones. Gaining more knowledge of other cultures, and taking a trip back in time tends to thwart stressful situations. We get better at assessing and weighing the bombardment of information we receive on a daily basis.

This town exposes us to a new clarity reminding us that just in the same way we should be attentive concerning a product or service we purchase, we should, likewise, be vigilant about managing our travel destinations. We want to choose places that nurture our mind, body and spirit.

David Mitchell, the Innkeeper shares with great insight suggestions, ideas and perspective-changing attitudes that encourage us to become less timid about taking time off while overcoming the tension and strain our jobs put in front of us. 'My background is in nursing and psychology,' he says, 'I naturally gravitate and attune to listening. You have to have a real service type personality. I also find it a challenge when someone is out of sorts. I love to turn them around. When you turn someone around, you have a guest who remembers it for life. The fresh flower, the little niceties; that is what turns them.'

In a nutshell, and as the innkeeper emphasizes, in order to become relaxed, renewed and recharged, we need to take more personal responsibility for our peace of mind, becoming diligent, proactive, and participatory.

David continues, 'We host mothers, daughters and granddaughters. Some guests have suffered a death in their family, or have lost their job. Eureka is known for its quaintness, a little luxury, and a little pampering. You can gauge people and determine how much they want to talk, and you move to meet that. You can also determine how much they don\'t want to talk.'

The atmosphere of a bed and breakfast inn is the integration of every lesson and distinction that the owner has learned and has applied to his or her intention as an innkeeper. The influence of some guests and visitors who have shared their experiences can shape an innkeeper\'s philosophy as well as that of the inn.

Remember that the point of a getaway is to renew, rejuvenate and recharge. You can do some research on the area and plan a few exciting activities. A well-orchestrated itinerary will not soon be forgotten. Discovering your own voice and defining your own relaxing vacation might enable you to encourage others to do likewise.

FEATURED PROPERTY:  It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of the circa 1883 Heart of the Hills Inn, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, are easy on the eyes, and a relaxing atmosphere is evident throughout the property. More importantly, the service is considered warm, welcoming, and impeccable. At the time of reservation, guests are typically asked if they have any special requests, needs or dietary considerations.

Upon arrival into the common area, visitors are familiarized with the property, and the history of the inn. The staff makes guests feel welcome with a tour. The staff escorts guests to their rooms, explains the breakfast routine, other particulars, amenities and activities available in the area.

The Heart of the Hills Inn is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity. Just gaze at the beautiful blooming seasonal gardens situated around the property. It is a place where you can spend relaxing times in conversation with good friends.

SUMMARY: The Heart of the Hills Inn is a prime circa 1883 property nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The historical B & B offers the tranquility and comfort of a private retreat, yet is a stone\'s throw away from all of the city\'s conveniences. You can hear the geese calling in the distance. All rooms have a fireplace, separate sitting area, and large Jacuzzi tub. In addition to main house rooms, guests can stay in a cottage room, away from the main inn. All rooms give visitors a sense of privacy, space and romance. The inn features sumptuous in-room breakfasts. This along with great service makes for a delightful B & B experience.

ROOMS: In addition to the spacious comfort, the rooms are immaculately clean, and airy, decorated with tasteful décor, furniture and artwork. Porches and decks offer superb views of the property overlooking a sunken garden, and trees. Star-filled nights and pretty sunsets are part of the charm. All rooms have private entrances, and private deck or porch. Rooms come equipped with free WiFi, cable TV and DVD player. Bathrobes and signature toiletries are provided along with hairdryers, microwaves, coffee pots and refrigerators. The property has several small gardens, and a lovely fountain.

All during your stay you can partake of complimentary tea, and beverages. Upon request rooms come with a lovely bouquet of flowers and gold wrapped chocolates.

SERVICE: Great service with a warm smile. The innkeeper is well known for his genuine hospitality. The innkeeper is knowledgeable and provides efficient service to all of his guests.

AMENITIES: Known for an exceptional, and hearty four-course breakfast, served en-suite: Decadent ciabbata French toast; or Tuscan bread eggs benedict with rosemary pork loin, are some of the items served. The owners collect paintings, unique furnishings, antiques and heirlooms that are interspersed around the house. Some artwork and handicrafts provide a glimpse into local and regional culture. The parlor is the ideal reading room for visitors. It\'s a peaceful room with a variety of different books, board games, magazines and DVD\'s. People like to read on the porch on rocking chairs or sit in the garden on benches or chairs. Upon request, the innkeeper can provide refreshments. Hot tea, iced tea and baked goods are delivered to the guestrooms.

LOCATION: The location is flawless for those who want to get away and feel removed from everyday anxiety and stress, yet close to town to enjoy shopping, restaurants, wineries, and local culture. The inn provides an incomparable sense of comfort. Shopping is a few blocks away, as are some of the well-established galleries. Jewelry, quilts, local products, antiques and paintings are available in town.

CLEANLINESS: The inn is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The gardens with natural plantings throughout are attractive. The beds and herb gardens on the property are meticulously maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides excellent value with a sense of historic elegance, comfort and warmth. The rooms are designed to make guests feel relaxed, and cozy. The personal attention makes the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The staff is helpful without being intrusive.

About the Author
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a freelance writer, keynote guest speaker, and author of two books about finding and cultivating contentment. 'Precious Gifts of Love' and 'Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment' (Reviews 4.5/5 Stars, Look Inside) are available on Amazon. C.J. Good\'s keynote addresses include: travel topics, health issues, the generation x/y marketplace, and sales. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader\'s lives. C.J. Good is a successful business development executive who worked in the travel industry for 17 years. ~ http://www.sustainablecontentment.com

CONTACT: David Mitchell, Innkeeper/Owner, Heart of the Hills Inn, 5 Summit Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Toll Free- 1-800-253-7468. Rates: $119-$139, www.heartofthehillsinn.com