I don’t blame you for hating me for enjoying many mojitos at the Mandarin Oriental in Miami. The stay was pure luxury; the weather, a winter dream…

In between Mojito sips, I did charge a few brain cells to read about the hotel’s green initiatives (low flow water systems; a rigorous recycling program) and a sweet Miami Everglades package they offer in partnership with the World Heritage Alliance and Everglades National Park. This package includes a day trip to the park where guests get a special tour and can participate in “voluntourism” activities such as tree planting, recycling projects, and weeding out exotic plants.

I learned about it too late, but next time I’m yearning for the Miami heat, I’m taking this green opportunity.

My New Year’s weekend included a very tightly-packed adventure to the Windy City. The trip included 5 adults in this silver Prius, along with too much luggage, baked goods, and champagne. It’s amazing we all made it there and back in one piece. But even though I wasn’t able to move my limbs, this little hybrid was a smooth ride.

I am at the airport on my way out of town, and just stopping to say that in a sea of McDonald’s and other FF chains, the French Meadow Bakery outpost is so refreshing to see. Organic Valley milk and a whole grain wrap? Sounds like lunch to me.