A Weekend Of Pampering

Last weekend, my friend Bobbi and I enjoyed a much-needed getaway to The Spa at Norwich Inn.

Nestled in the heart of Connecticut, it was exactly what I always imagined a destination spa to be – bucolic setting, soft-spoken and friendly staff and bathrobe-glad guests (most of whom were female) strolling the grounds.

Bobbi and I all aglow after our treatments at The Spa At Norwich Inn

Saturday afternoon was devoted to on-property pampering, including a rejuvenating facial and massage combo. Continuing the relaxation vibe, Bobbi and I went from the hot tub to the indoor pool before making our way to complimentary afternoon tea.

Over buttermilk scones with clotted cream and blackcurrant tea, we talked about old boyfriends, new romantic prospects and the importance of paying attention to dating dealbreakers. We applauded ourselves for finally learning how to move on from Mr. Wrong more swiftly -- Bobbi ended her last ill-fated romance after six months, I exited from my most recent entanglement after only three.

After lounging by the outdoor pool and one more dip inside, we spruced ourselves up and headed over to nearby casino Mohegan Sun. Bobbi lost $200 playing roulette and I picked up $50, buying us a round of drinks with my small winnings.

Bobbi and I are already planning our next getaway, and a future return to Norwich. Because the joys of pampering are always multiplied when they’re shared.

Up next...drinks with a handsome, charismatic tabloid newsman and the allure of the unattainable.

A Tea-rrific Christmas At The Lowell

On Christmas, I joined my friend Tiffany and her friend Jen for a delightful evening at one of NYC’s top boutique hotels, The Lowell.

As soon as we walked into the Lowell’s Pembroke Room, I felt transported by the old world elegance and impeccable five-star service. It was like we had entered a private dining room from centuries ago, with rich tables adorned by crisp white linens and colorful china, and a mantel festooned with Christmas decorations.

Old World Elegance: The Lowell’s Pembroke Room served up a memorable Holiday High Tea

The Lowell’s Holiday High Tea menu featured a special selection of hand picked leaf teas and herbal infusions, assorted tea sandwiches, fresh pumpkin bread and, of course, classic blackcurrant scones with berry preserves and Devonshire cream.

The charming and knowledgeable maitre’d had me appreciating in a new way how, much like wine, tea is a beverage of numerous delectable varieties and flavorful fusions. All of the staff made us feel at home while we lingered for nearly four hours, savoring the festive surroundings.

Topping it all off -- a cup of traditional German Glühwein (sweet wine) and a tiered silver tray of petit tarts and pastries.

As we exited the Lowell, I was happy to have discovered a new addition to my list of favorite neighborhood haunts. And I found myself in complete agreement with the Henry James quote on the Lowell's holiday menu --

"There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea."

Opening The Vault: Part Twenty One

When you’re in a long-distance relationship, where you spend time with your significant other becomes almost as important as how often. So it was for me and my California sweetheart Mark (a.k.a Sparky).

Our first few encounters took place in my world. We met in New York, fell in love in London, then reconnected back in the Big Apple when Sparky came to visit in July of 1994. A month later, it was time for me to start racking up the frequent flier miles and head out to L.A., for our first rendez-vous in Sparky’s home state. I now Open The Vault and take you back to the Summer of ‘94...

Granada Hills, CA
August 26th, 1994

Dear Diary,

Yesterday, I had a glorious night view of L.A. as the plane descended. There was something so meaningful about the moment. Sparky and I were about to be in the same time zone again. That we had both traveled so we could be together made our love seem magical.

The Look of Love: Sparky took this picture of me during a visit to Disneyland, August 1994

My best friend Lisa had asked me earlier in the day what I was planning to say to Sparky when I saw him. I told her I wasn’t planning anything. I was finally at the point where I didn’t have to think about what to say. The only thing I had to think about was how quickly I could run into his arms.

* * *

Upon entering the terminal, I searched the crowd for him. Suddenly, I spotted Sparky a few feet away.

He quickened his pace as he approached me and we fell into each other’s arms. We shared the most perfect kiss and I could feel my entire body tingle the way it always does when Sparky touches me.

Our lips reluctantly parted and we gushed about happy we were to be together. Sparky kept telling me how beautiful I looked and we talked about my trip, holding onto each other tightly the entire time.

While we were waiting for my luggage, Sparky didn't stop looking at me.

“Look at you,” he said. “You’re just gorgeous.”

We kept kissing -- in the airport, next to his car -- the surge of adrenalin I felt was incredible.

Sparky left it up to me to decide how we would spend the evening. Needless to say, I opted for going back to his place.

At one point, he pulled over to make a turn -- and we melted into another kiss. Mmm.

The drive to Granada Hills was wonderful. We drove with the top of Sparky’s convertible down (until the wind started wreaking havoc on my hair). Beyond the freeway, I caught a glimpse of the city lights and mountains. I felt so happy…and anxious to get close to Sparky.

When we finally arrived at Sparky’s two-bedroom condo, I have to admit, I was kind of disappointed. The modern, bachelor pad décor (black leather couches, sleek black furniture, etc.) bothered me. Why? Because I was wondering if our tastes would be compatible if we ever get married!

Before I unpacked, Sparky and I began to make up for lost time. The explosive chemistry between us, compounded by the time apart, was more intoxicating than ever. I felt dizzy as he kissed me over and over. I couldn’t get enough of him and I could feel that he felt the same way…

* * *

Yes, that first night together again with Sparky was blissful. And, in keeping with the trajectory that would come to characterize our relationship, it kicked off an emotional roller coaster that made my inaugural West Coast visit a very intense one.

Coming up…afternoon tea at one of NYC’s best boutique hotels and Saturday night on the town with one of my favorite soul sisters.