Brunch at Fleming's ... This isn't your grandma's brunch (thank goodness)

Flemings Steakhouseis known around the country for many things--succulent steaks,
fine wine, fresh seafood, and a commitment to fantastic service--
but they're not necessarily known for the one thing my husband and I went to sample on a recent Sunday morning.

Brunch.

Sunday brunch is a staple around these parts, but you're most likely to encounter a large buffet style operation in most establishments, replete with pastries, potatoes, soggy-to-overdone scrambled eggs, and if you're lucky, a waffle and/or omelet station.

Put those thoughts out of your mind. You are now at Fleming's Sonoma Sunday Brunch, served 11am- 3pm.

The atmosphere of the place, all mahogany wood and deep red leather banquettes, conjures a ton of old world charm, and you know you're in a special place from the time the smiling host or hostess greets you and you are promptly seated.

Your waiter or waitress arrives soon after, offering you a complimentary breakfast cocktail of freshly squeezed orange juice, pomegranate puree, and fine champagne, and hands you a menu.

You might be inclined to raise your eyebrows. Yes, you can get an order of (absolutely delicious, fluffy, and perfectly cooked) pancakes, and my husband quickly availed himself of these.

You can also get a delectable crab-meat omelet. You can start out with fresh, succulent berries smothered in sweet house-made whipped cream. But those aren't the only items available, by a long shot.

Instead, why not try eggs Benedict--made with filet mignon, crisp fried potato cakes, and perfect hollandaise, instead of the old tired canadian-bacon-english muffin duo? 

Or a rich, deep prime rib hash, made with potatoes and fresh vegetables, and served with some of the creamiest scrambled eggs I've ever tasted?

Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you will not be disappointed with the miso glazed Chilean sea bass, light and flaky with a delicious Asian tang.

And the side orders--rosemary sugar bacon, sweet, crisp and chewy. Goat cheese grits, smooth and creamy with a light, earthy flavor. Spicy, meaty sausage links that would make certain breakfast-sausage icons hang their heads in shame at what is offered at their eponymous restaurants.

By the time my husband and I were finished eating, we were full to bursting. The entire time, our friendly, knowledgeable waiter ensured we were comfortable, had hot coffee at the ready, and refilled our delicious cocktail.

He was never far away, but he never intruded either. Fleming's seems to have mastered the balancing act that is great service--be available, but not in your face.

All in all, it was a fantastic experience and neither my husband nor I can wait until we return for another Sonoma Sunday Brunch soon--and neither one of us will ever look at the traditional brunch buffet the same again. 

Fleming's is located at 555 Lancaster Avenue, Radnor, PA.

East Coast Float Spa- The Key to Zen

When I first thought about doing a story on the East Coast Float Spa, I wasn't sure what it would be like. I like water, I like soaking in hot tubs or a nice bathtub, I love pools and swimming in the ocean.

I like salt water- so how about floating in a salt water tank in darkness for an hour?

I was intrigued.

I called and spoke with Community Engagement Director Gabrielle, who invited me to the West Chester location to try it out. The difference between most salt floats and the East Coast Float is the absence of tanks- they have flotation rooms.

Upon arriving I found a white clean open space with available salts and teas, and I was first shown into a room with a short video to answer any questions.

A father and teenage son were also in there with me, and we settled in comfy lounge chairs to watch. The video address concerns such as how deep is the float, is it in complete darkness, how sanitary is it, and can you wear a bathing suit.

After the video, Gabrielle took me down the hall past the four flotation rooms to the Cloud 10 Float room. It was set up like a little locker room, with a comfy bench with cubbies and hooks and shelves for my items and clothes. There was also a tiled corner for a shower and a door leading to the float.

I was told to completely rinse off including my hair, and then I can get right into the float at my leisure. Gabrielle left, and I locked the door and disrobed, and rinsed off.

The float is full of almost 1000 pound of pure medical grade Epsom salts per float, and the salt water is pumped three times through a state-of-the-art purification system to ensure the float is sanitary and clean for each float guest.

I put in ear plugs and opened the door, I wasn't sure what I'd see, but it was a like a large shower stall with 10 inches of water at the bottom and a sloped ceiling. It was not closed in at all, and I wasn't climbing down into a tank.

There was a little shelf and I brought my water in with me (glass is not allowed, but a water carton given to me by Gabrielle was perfect). There was also an assistance button for help if needed and the light switch.

It felt a little risque getting in naked, but the salt would weigh down any bath suit or underwear.

I stepped over the threshold and onto a little step, and into the warm water. It was not hot, it was around body temperature, and a bit slippery feeling. I pulled the door shut, and gently sank down into the water.

I expected it to be deeper, but it was not, just 10 inches of very salted water, and it was a fun, strange feeling of buoyancy as I stretched out my arms and began to breathe.

The warm water was unlike the ocean or a bathtub, and felt almost silky as it flowed over my skin and through my hair.

The outside light was on a motion timer, and it switched off. Inside, I had the option to float in complete darkness, or switch on a small blue LED light of the foot of the float. 

I could stretch out my arms and gently bob from side to side, or push up with my toes and float from the bottom to the top- the entire float was about 6 feet by 9 feet, and once I explored everything, I settled in to relax.

Note- you do NOT want to get salt water in your eyes. You will float, not sink, and you must keep your face above the water. 


I love going underwater, so I thought I could bob down, and you really can't due to how heavy the salt water is and yes, it will sting badly.

However, I just rinsed my face with my water bottle and gently dried with a small facecloth also on the float shelf.

I switched the light on because I felt a mite closed in, and the blue light gave a feeling of a the light on the ocean, or a private pool, which I enjoyed. 

I slowly began to meditate on feeling free as I floated, because when in here, it is a solitary experience.

What to think about? I had the light off for a while as I drifted around and thought about the summer, a new job, vacation, being happy. It was very peaceful because there was no outside stimuli, no phone, no light, no pictures, just me and my thoughts. 
With the earplugs in, I could hear my slow, steady breathing.

It was a very cool experience. I love water, and I didn't get cold as I floated around, swishing through the water, letting it glide through my fingertips and breathing out any stress. 
It really was a unique feeling in the dark, just letting pure sensation and thoughts take over. After a while, my mind stopped zooming and settled into a relaxed state.

I did start to get slightly restless and sensed my hour was up. Just then, the lights came on, and I sat up and finished my water, and very carefully stepped out. You wouldn't think it, but salt water is very slippery! 

I showered off and washed my hair, and soap and shampoo and conditioner were provided, along with fresh towels an a small piece of chocolate to recharge. 
You must do this, otherwise you'd have a crusty film of salt on you!

You can schedule appointments at the same time (in two hour increments) but everyone floats on their own as each of the four float rooms only hold one person.

When I came out, Gabrielle offered the use of the massage zero-gravity chairs, which I settled in to and relax, as the chair titled me back slightly and massaged me all over- compression on the hips on calves (yes please) even my hands and head, it really was great and I felt even more relaxed. 



I then settled in to use the oxygen bar on the other side of the relaxation room, which is something I have never done before. I hooked up the little tube under my nose why Gabrielle attached the tube to the oxygen with different flavors- I did vanilla and lime. 

This was very subtle. I sat their with my feet up, reclining, and took a lot of deep breathes.

So try it out- I want to knwo what you thought! If you go and use this CODE- ENGCHIK10 - you can save 10% off plus other amenities. 
The salt float was truly amazing, and helped me focus and relax- why don't you try it and see what sea salt floating does for you. 

Hello September: Reflect, Recoup, Relax.

Hi everyone! whoa what a month august was!! It was such a whirlwind- but I know it was good! 

I got a new job, I'm working smarter not harder - well, still working but making things work for me- and welcoming the fall with open arms- but fall isn't here yet.

September is full of fun- more trips to the shore (thanks Hermine for Labor day, so I spent it at home and had a glorious weekend) 

I had this ocean-front view for a glorious week.

After a nice cool weekend, this week is heating up, and it's NOT time for pumpkin spice- instead, cool off with these hometown treats in Phoenixville.

I celebrated my 40th birthday back in June, but my best friend treated me to a full spa day at Hotel Hershey- and it was amazing! 

Best Bestie Spa Day Ever!

A wrap, scrub, soak, and massage, plus lunch and relaxation- it was wonderful!! 

Her 40th birthday is coming up, and we have a trip thought out- where to go for her 40th?!?! We have a few ideas!

My goals for September are simple:

Yoga: Reflect and meditate

Kayak: Breathe in the crisp air and recoup energy

Beach: Walk, breathe in the salt air, eat one last lobster roll, and relax. Toast my favorite bartenders and friends.
PS- end of season sales...!

3 Body Washes To Refresh Your Day

There is nothing more satisfying than stepping out of the shower after a long day at work. Sitting at your desk for 8 hours, watching the clock go by slower and slower each minute, breathing in everyone’s lunch at noon, and praying to God you still have some of your FAVORITE body wash left to scrub off the day’s series of monotonous events. Whether you prefer pink and frothy, crisp and fresh, or a musky, unisex scent, these three body washes will change the way you feel about showering. 

If you’re looking for a girly scent, Caress created a line of 3 flirtatious body washes that claim to last on your skin for up to 12 hours-mind blown, I know. 

The scent “love forever” is hot pink with slight speckles of shimmer, which eventually turns into a frothy, cotton-candy colored mass of bubbles (as if you’re lathering up in princess soap.) 

If you’re looking for a crisper, lighter, I’ve never felt so freaking rejuvenated in my entire life feeling, opt for Dial’s Spring Water Body wash. 

Don’t let the low price tag fool you-this stuff gets the job done and leaves your skin soft, refreshed, and feeling squeaky clean long after your bath or shower. Last but not least, if you want a more relaxing, indulgent lather, 

Malin + Goetz created a warm dark rum body wash that will knock the socks off all your senses. Their amino-acid based cleanser has notes of cedar wood, musk, amber and basically any scent you’d smell on a cool, fall day. 

Enjoy this body wash after a long day or on any night when you just want to relax. Whichever body washes speaks to you, or even if it’s all three, your shower, senses, and skin will thank you. 

#BeautyWeekend #Enchanted Engchik

EM

Don't Get Comfortable- Stretch

We just celebrated our nation’s birthday- Independence Day- the 4^th of July. For me, it signals I have 2 whole months of summer and I need to get outside instead of on the couch rewatching (ahem binge watching) Orange is the New Black again.

I need to remind myself the couch isn’t good for any aspects of my life, my tush, my health, and just my sanity. 

Getting home at the end of the day is such a relief that I just collapse and hug my pets. 

I am SO HAPPY to be home and with my husband or out with friends.

However, I am immensely proud of my day's work. I work hard each day to create the best content and support my team and fulfill my promise to my company to do a great job every day.

The workplace can oppress people, so look for ways to relieve the stress.

Incorporate that feel-good home feeling with a homemade dinner with friends, with a new recipe. Interact with co-workers on a small and fun challenge.

For me, working out, taking on new assignments, interacting with my peers, trying new opportunities, reading books, playing games stretches me- stretches my brain.

Going out of the safe zone that you have created is the best way to stretch yourself.  

This happens when things get too common or easy, or it’s too much effort to go beyond, because life does catch up with you, and some days, it’s all you can do to just survive thru the day- awake, fed, washed, others fed, at work, etc.

However, I believe it is important to go beyond the daily routine. You will always have a daily routine. You have more hours in the day than just working- use them to your advantage!

Meditation and visualization are super important- imagine where you wish to be and with that intent, keep working towards that goal.

Bottom line- don’t get comfortable. Like your job? Find new ways to improve!

Don’t like your job? Look for new projects and ways to arc yourself out into a better position!

Unhappy in love? Love yourself first and do what makes YOU happy.

Not flexible enough- try a new class- even just one small change can keep your brain and body thinking differently.

Always keep improving yourself- you are unique and one of a kind!

Romance & Relaxation is on Offer Year-Round at Stone Harbor's The Reeds at Shelter Haven

Romance is always in the air at the beach, the salt air, the call of the ocean, and it doesn't have to be summer! My husband and I recently spent the weekend at a suite at The Reeds at Shelter Haven in Stone Harbor, New Jersey during the first really nice weekend and enjoyed ourselves- a walk on the beach, dinner out, a stroll around town, and none of it was a great as relaxing in our room.

The concierge and staff of this fabulous boutique hotel make everything even more luxurious. Our room, the Sienna Suite over looked the bay with a great balcony.

We took a walk on the beach and then settled in, relaxing, reading, sipping coffee from our deluxe kitchen on a sofa and comfy chairs. That's not to say champagne didn't make an appearance!

Later, we headed downstairs to Sax for dinner, where we had such a great time- cheese grits, octopus and finger potato, short ribs with potato mash, buffalo shrimp, oh it was delightful. Add in a few excellent pear martinis and we were quite happy.


The dining room at Sax, along with the service and menu- are always an amazing experience in fine dining, excellent coastal cuisine, and fresh desserts.

The fireplace was perfect- very nice when it got a bit chilly after dinner, where we cuddled up in a glorious king size bed and drifted off to sleep.

The morning dawned bright and sunny and we ordered room service for breakfast.

Our suite has a huge dining room table, perfect for sipping coffee and enjoying the view of the bay.

After breakfast we strolled up and down 96th street as shoppes were opening, then went back to meet friends for lunch at bar and enjoyed soups, flatbreads, and another pear martini.

All too soon it was time to head back to PA, but we will be back soon!

Don't miss Easter Brunch at Sax! March 27 in the Sweet Grass Ballroom 10am-2pm.

Summer is Still Rockin at Valley Beach in KoP

So…the unofficial end to summer is nigh, but as we head into another heat wave, your local pool and the shore are always good options. But there’s one gem that has a pool, AND a beach, AND great food AND drinks AND it’s closer than you think..AND it will stay open til September 30…an entire month from now!

I’m talking about Valley Forge Casino’s Valley Beach!!

Nestled in the crux of the casino, the convention center, and the Radisson, this King of Prussia sparkling jewel has a huge glorious pool, comfy lounge chairs, a sandy beach with games, waitress service, a bar, live music and DJs after dark, a huge lounge area with fire pits and couches. Or, enjoy a cabana for a small get together!

It’s just $10 a day for patrons to visit the pool, and if you are a registered hotel guest or Valley Forge Casino card-holder you can come on in and splash around!

The food and drinks are great- it’s your typical bar food, but with fresh, flavorful twists! Try the Summer Shandy Steamed Shrimp, or the Fresh Coconut Fried Shrimp with Curry Sauce. The Mandarin Sesame Seed Chicken Tenders are fantastic. Crab cakes, jerk chicken, sandwiches, and more all are on the menu.

So summer ain’t over yet, kiddos. Enjoy every minute of sunshine at Valley Beach!

Valley Beach Hours: 9am – Dusk Daily for Pool Access

Valley Beach Restaurant & Bar Hours: Thursday & Friday: 2pm – close

Saturday & Sunday hours: 11am – close

Must be 21+
Guests under 21 are welcome if accompanied by a registered hotel guest until 6pm daily.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Enjoy a stay at the hotel and visit the casino!

Photography by Samara Messer.

Special thanks to the Valley Beach team, especially Veronica, Mark, Stephen, and Kristen!

Gift Round Up for Our Favorite Lady: MOM!!

This Sunday, we celebrate Mom. Mom is your birth mom, friend, family member, anyone that you consider someone to look up to, value her opinion, and love.  

My mom Kathy is stupendous. We just put the last year into planning my wedding and it was amazing, thanks to my mom (and dad, and a host of other people!)

Flowers and candy are pretty great, but this year, get mom a fabulous gift!!
Pamper mom! 

Hand in Hand is an eco-friendly bath & lifestyle social business. All products are made in the USA and materials are sourced using the most environmentally and ethically responsible methods. For every product purchased, Hand in Hand donates a bar of soap and a month of clean water to a child in need in Haiti. In celebration of their favorite holiday, Mother's Day, they are offering a special Mother's Day Gift Basket for only $49.95 (plus free shipping). Baskets are available in three pretty and feminine scents: Lavender, Rose Water and White Tea. 

Each gift basket is valued at $75 and comes with:

• A white tin bucket
• Moisturizing Lotion
• Sugar Scrub
• Bar Soap
• Lip Balm
• Customized watercolored gift tag
• Free shipping

These products are made with the highest quality natural ingredients and for every basket purchased, Hand in Hand will donate 4 bars of soap and 4 months of clean water to a child in the developing world. 

Mom into wellness? Juicing or smoothies is the way to go! Mom would love a Hurom juicer or a Cuisinart blender and smoothie maker. These products are sleek, chic, and so much fun to use! These products make kitchen time fun and lend their expertise to following a healthier diet. 

Coffee or tea? Which does Mom prefer? For the expert tea drinker, an electric kettle is key.  Cuisinart makes a great lineup of kettles for home or office. For coffee, does Mom prefer a drip-coffee maker or an automatic single serve? Home brewing is at it's best when served with love, family, pastries, and good coffee!

And what mom doesn't love to be comfortable and fashionable? Check out Macy's, Kohl's, and Sak's for great spring accessories and clothes for mom! This Kate Spade scarf features the island of Manhattan- wear the world's greatest city around your neck!

Finally, jewelry always makes the cut: Alex and Ani, Pandora, Cartier, so many others to get mom something gorgeous and great. How did you pamper your mom?

NABILA K Bath Products Relax and Invigorate Your Senses

If you are looking for fresh, natural, and unique body products, look no further than NABILA K.

These fabulous products use the finest oils from around the world and combine them with natural elements to create an experience that is perfectly relaxing and exceptionally stunning.

Once you sink into a bubble bath or lather up - NABILA K will give you a relaxing experience that you will seek out again and again, and relaxation is as near as your bathtub and shower. Add in a few candles or diffusers to complete the experience!

NABILA K also offers travel sizes and travel pouches to keep these delicious scents with you at all times and when traveling, camping, or at the gym or an overnight.

NabilaK came into existence in 2010 after years of preparation and research. With no formal background in the beauty industry other than a lifelong love for skin care products, owner Nabila Khashoggi set out to create the best possible high-quality, naturally derived products. And she has succeeded!

Start with a delightful bubble bath and create some time for yourself. In scents such as Forest Experience Pine & Fir, Sunshine Zest Citrus & Eucalyptus, Sweet Surrender Almond & Honey, Heart of Provence Lavender & Sage, and Rose Garden Roses, you will melt away in a bath of comfort.

Additionally add these excellent enriching organic bath salts to your bathwater: in Chamomile, Hibiscus, Jasmine, Lavender, and Rose. ( I really love these- they come in a frosted glass jar with a cute little scooping scoop and I feel so elegant scooping out my bathtime salts.) Or try the Safari at Dusk Shower gel.

And remember, NABILA K’s ingredients are naturally derived, sulfate-free, and paraben-free. Our products contain no phthalates, no mineral oil, and have undergone no animal testing.

Part of all proceeds from NABILA K’s bath and beauty products are donated to The Children for Peace (ONLUS) a nonprofit organization based in Italy whose mission is to provide education and other forms of aide to children in Third World countries.

Have you tried NABILA K’s bath products? Which is your favorite?

Special thanks to Debbie Dickinson and NABILA K!

#500DaysofBeauty