Samantha K Schmidt

Hello Luxers! Welcome to my Summer Lovin' series. You saw the first entry yesterday about my first ever cruise experience. This series is going to continue through the summer with tips and tricks as well as my personal summer experiences. 

The school year is almost over, and I'm finally worn out. I don't always get excited to go to work in the morning, but my blues are usually lessened by my students' smiling faces. Except for today. I'm finally over all the "work." I am ready for the summer fun, but I know a week into it the summertime sadness will begin. I'll be bored and lonely since all my friends have year round jobs. So to minimize this depression I've decided to make a fun to-do list. 1. Theme Park Hop : This is a summer time staple, but typically I stick with the mouse. This year I actually want to stay at Universal Studies and take in the magic of Harry Potter as well as the nightlife. 2. Solo Vacation : I thrive on traveling alone. It gives me a sense of independence, and it's an opportunity to challenge myself to try new things. 3. Write : I'll admit this is kind of like work, but it's fun work. I really want to complete more of the book that I'm writ...

Mother's Day is almost here, and the last minute shoppers are taking over. Stay away from the masses and plan something different for Mom this year. After all she already has a bag like that. She really doesn't need another pair of earrings. And that photo collage... just no. Instead of buying something that she may never use, here are a few ideas to take Mom on a fun day trip. At least she will be able to keep the memories forever. Spa Day : Put the gift certificate down! Pick up the phone and schedule the treatments yourself. Make the day for two or just for Mom. Either way make it personal.     Casino : If Mom is feeling a little lucky take her out to the casino. Here in Florida she can cruise the seas playing blackjack or spend the night at the Hard Rock. Research your area to find the best options.       Theme Park : Whether she's a thrill-seeker or a queen there's something for every Mom at the theme park.     ...

The weather has been extremely bi-polar here in Florida, so I didn't get to enjoy the usual Spring Break beachside. However, I thought I would share some of my cloudy day adventures with you.  Had a delicious Vegan dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. Their chocolate chip cookies are my favorite.  Went antiquing and saw this. Meow. Spent some time at Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival. I waited 10 minutes to get the monorail shot. This was the only chance I got to wear shorts. Sampled some Florida Beer.  Went to St. Augustine with my mom. Flagler College is one of my favorite historical buildings. It was first known as the Ponce de Leon Hotel built by Henry Flagler. Now students actually live in the unique rooms that he created.  I finally bought one of these journals. I have no artistic ability, but it's fun to be creative. Saw the cast of The Middle filming at Magic Kingdom. En...