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An Ode To Having No Regrets

11/10/2017

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How many people have you met that have said "We were going to go on a cruise but...." or "We always wanted to go to Paris but...." or "I thought about it and I wanted to but..."?

If I had a dollar for the times I've heard these and similar statements, I wouldn't need to work another day in my life.  But this isn't about that - its about living a life with no regrets.

My husband, Michael Ray, died one week ago today.  I'm devastated and it's hard.  But - and it's a big "but" - I can honestly say I have no regrets.  In 25 years, no regrets about things we did or didn't say and definitely about the things we did or didn't do.  
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My husband and I traveled to over 60 countries and sailed to various places around the world more than 60 times.  We had adventures that most people only dream of.  Did we sacrifice to do that?  Actually no - because we knew that our number one passion was seeing the world.  The accumulation of "stuff" meant nothing to us - we lived simply.  We didn't need new cars, new furniture, or junk to fill up the house, because we were busy filling our hearts, minds and souls with the sights and sounds of people and places around the world.  We did not allow ourselves to be caught up in the "we shouldn't" mentality - instead, we convinced ourselves why we should.
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I want to challenge you to live a life of no regrets.  I want you to have the peace that I do at this very moment knowing that your life was everything you wanted it to be.  Do you want to travel?  Don't let the "buts" get in your way.  No excuses...no regrets.  Make it happen because you can! Here is how you can do it and it will be so much easier than you think!

The next time you say you can't afford it, remember that you can.  You can choose to not buy all of those things that are meaningless and put that money aside for your next travel adventure - even if its to a beach in the next state. 

The next time you think the timing is off to travel because you have this or that to take care of, remember that your house can be painted or cleaned any time.  We all have responsibilities - some of us far more than others, but where there's a will, there's a way.

The next time you look at your vacation days at work, save a few just for you and your travel adventures, even if its just one or two extra days for a 4-day weekend.  Don't use them for "responsibilities" - be good to yourself because you've earned it!

Instead of lamenting the fact that you're alone and have no one to travel with, or your significant other doesn't like to travel, explore solo traveler opportunities.  There are tons of them out there - and you'll be glad you did, especially because you just might make a new best friend.

You're afraid....of leaving home, of going to another country, of flying, of being on the water, and the list goes on and on.  I'll let you in on a secret:  everyone is afraid of something on that list.  If you let your fears dominate your thinking and your life, you will exist - not live.  Those fears are stopping you from having the most memorable times of your life and experiences that you dream of.  As someone who has had to overcome many fears and phobias, I can tell you that the minute you do, you will be free - free of the chain around your neck that stops you from the real joy of living.
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So here is a toast to you from me and Mike that you will start today on your quest to living a life of no regrets.  You deserve it...its really that simple!
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Greek Island Hopper Family Vacation

10/30/2017

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Who says you have to spend your family's summer vacation at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean when you can take your family on a journey through the ages hopping the Greek Islands?  Myths and legends, tales of gods and goddesses follow your jaunt from the ruins of the Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens to languid island life on the Aegean islands of Mykonos and Santorini.  You'll also embark on a volcanic adventure to uninhabited Nea Kameni to bathe in its hot springs.

Your Greek Island Hopper vacation includes 9 nights accommodations, 12 meals, all transportation and sightseeing shown and more.
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Arrive in Athens (2 Nights)

Tighten your toga for a magical family adventure delving into the ancient history of Athens and island-style living on the Greek isles.  Take a leaf out of your history books and see ancient history come to life - the haunt of Plato, Socrates and Alexander the Great is yours to explore before meeting your fellow "citizens" and Travel Director for a memorable Kick Off Party that will put the "oh" in Opa! (Hotel: Crowne Plaza/Divanni Palace Acropolis)

Athens Sightseeing

Join a Local Specialist this morning to see where ancient Athenians would pay tribute to their gods and goddesses.  Ascending to the Acropolis, you'll visit the sacred Parthenon, before seeing the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium - where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch.  See the Evzone guards and their quirky march at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, before spending the rest of the day at leisure to explore the sites with your loved ones.  This evening, consider a rousing ramble around the buzzing streets of Athens in search of the perfect kebab.
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Athens - Mykonos (3 Nights)

All aboard! Prime your sea legs for an unforgettable Aegean adventure which begins this morning as we board a fast ferry to the idyllic island of Mykonos.  Enjoy an orientation tour on arrival, then spend the rest of your day getting lost in its labyrinthine lanes.  Share the cobblestone maze with the island's lazy cats that watch travelers meander past white-washed houses and tumbling cerise bougainvillea.  This evening you'll savor delicious local island flavors with new friends at a Regional Meal. (Hotel: Pelican Bay/Kamari/San Marco)

Mykonos

Tap your inner beach bum and retire to the golden beaches of Mykonos, building sandcastles that would rival the many fortresses that dot this ancient land.  Indulge in tasty seafood platters against the backdrop of Little Venice, snap a selfie in front of the imposing windmills that overlook the island's picturesque bay or rent a pedal boat and take to its tranquil waters - the choice yours.

Mykonos

Dose up on Vitamin D ad splash in the sparking sea that surrounds Mykonos, which legend has it was once the site of a great battle between Zeus and the Titans.  Visit the Aegean Maritime Museum for fascinating insights into the maritime history of this area or consider a trip to nearby Delos Islands, believed by the ancients to be the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo.  Stroll through its temples, sanctuaries and the Terrace of the Lions.
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Mykonos - Santorini (3 Nights)

Gliding through the azure waters of the aegean, we arrive in Santorini where we'll spend the next three days in spellbinding surroundings.  Enjoy an orientation tour on arrival and gain insight into the origins of this circular archipelago which is all that remains of a spectacular volcanic explosion.  Spend the rest of the day at your leisure before joining your traveling companions for a feast of Greek specialties during a Regional Meal.  (Hotel: El Greco Hotel/Santorini Palace/Orizontes)

Santorini

Set your watch to Santorini time and meander through the quaint cobbled streets of Fira and Oia, counting the blue cupolas that cling spectacularly to the Santorini cliffs.  Head to one of the island's beaches or visit a museum, before watching the sun dip into the Aegean from your magical cliff-top vantage point.

Santorini

Consider indulging in the delicious vintages for which Santorini is so famous during a tour of a local winery.  Enjoy some insight into life on the Caldera and embark on an included cruise in a "kaiki" to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni to swim in its magical hot springs.
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Santorini - Athens

Leave the island high life behind and board a high-speed ferry back to Athens, where you'll spend the final night of your journey.  Consider visiting the vibrant old historical neighborhood of Athens called the Plaka. Full of great restaurants and friendly locals - its the perfect area to spend your final night in Athens. (Hotel: Crowne Plaza/Divani Palace Acropolis)

Depart Athens for Home

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Ready To Visit The Greek Islands?

This incredible family vacation, perfect for those who want the warmth of the sun and beautiful beaches, combined with some history and plenty of leisure time, offers amazing value.  Prices starting at just $2750 per person / double occupancy with terrific discounts for young travelers as well as 3rd and 4th travelers sharing a room.  Dates available during April, May, June, July, and August.  Because this family vacation experience is extremely popular, we recommend that you secure your dates with a $200.00 deposit per person as quickly as possible.  

Want more information or ready to book?  Contact Joanna Vas, Travel Specialist at 919-578-9028, ext. 133 or Click Here To Email her today!

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Gladiators, Gondolas and Gold!

10/29/2017

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Is a family vacation in Italy on your bucket list? Hold on to your helmet for this family expedition marching through the Eternal City of Rome, illustrious Florence and the historic lagoon of Venice.  Experience life as a Roman Gladiator and learn the basics of sword-fighting, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain and devour the pizza you've just learned to make before creating your own Venetian Carnival mask.

Your family vacation to Italy includes 9 nights hotel accommodations, 14 meals, and all transportation and sightseeing mentioned.
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Arrive Rome (3 Nights)

Ciao Roma! Feast your eyes and your stomach on the Eternal City - the launch pad for an unforgettable adventure with la famiglia. Tread in the footsteps of the ancients before meeting with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Kick-off Party that will rock Rome. (Hotel: Crowne Plaza St. Peter's)

Rome Sightseeing

Join a Local Specialist to delve into centuries of history and culture, including a guided tour of the Vatican Museums.  Gaze up at the wonder of Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling the Sistine Chapel and explore the Catholic shrine of St. Peter's Basilica.  Venture across the Tiber to the Colosseum imagining a time when brave warriors fought to the death amidst the thunderous roar of thousands.

Rome - Visit a Gladiator School

It's time to become a gladiator for the day! You'll learn how to wield a gladiator's sword and gain insights into Roman history with a Local Specialist.  This afternoon, the cobblestone streets of Rome are yours to explore.  Board the Bioparco Express through Villa Borghese, count the Spanish Steps or toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your speedy return to Rome.  Then it's time for a cheesy family affair as you enjoy authentic Italian pizza-making and share a tasty slice or two with your loved ones.
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Rome - Florence

Set your watch to Italian time and embark on a scenic drive north through Tuscany's golden fields to the Renaissance city of Florence, our home for the next three nights. (Hotel:  Grand Mediterraneo)

Florence Sightseeing

The exquisite sights of Florence are brought to life on a walking tour with a Local Specialist.  See the magnificent Gothic Duomo and famous baptistry before marveling at Michelangelo's statue of David at the Academy of Fine Arts.  Where better to indulge in a refreshing gelato than in the city where it was invented?  Enjoy a special Be My Guest dinner at a magnificent Tuscan villa that once featured as a famous film location.  Join a local family for dinner enjoying delicious specialties against the backdrop of picture-perfect olive groves and vineyards.

Florence - Excursion to Pisa

Uno, due, tre...it's off to Pisa today, and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Piazza del Duomo to snap a selfie in front of the famous Leaning Tower.  Before venturing back to Florence, we'll see the Baptistery and Camposanto, built on sacred soil brought back by the Crusaders from the Holy Land. 
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Florence - Bologna - Venice (3 Nights)

Stop and smell the rich aromas of Bolognese sauce, spending the the morning with a Local Specialist exploring the medieval city of Bologna.  Then it's just a hop, skip and a jump to the island city of Venice.  Enjoy fertile to walk around the Grand Canal, feed the greedy pigeons in the piazza and wander through labyrinthine streets in search of hidden treasures and the city's tastiest gelato.  (Hotel:  Novotel Venezia Mestre Castellana)

Venice - Canal Cruise and Orientation

All aboard!  We cruise to bustling St. Mark's Square on a private launch, viewing the famous Bridge of Sighs.  We'll view the exquisite Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile before experiencing Venice's glassblowing traditions and the art of making Carnival masks.  Indulge your artistic flair and create your own colorful mask before enjoying a free evening.

Secret Venice Walking Tour and Visit the Rialto Food Market

Navigating the bustling canals to the Rialto Bridge, embrace the sights and sounds of Venice from the water before enjoying the flavors of Italy at an ancient food market.  Delve into the hidden highlights of Venice during a small group sightseeing walking tour, working up an appetite for our Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

Depart Venice for Home

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Ready For Your Family Vacation to Italy?

Prices start at only $2795.00 per person / double occupancy with great discounts for kids aged 5 - 17 years old, triple and quadruple occupancy, and early booking savings!  Many dates to choose from during June, July, August and September. These dates sell out so quickly that we recommend you make your deposit of $200.00 per person as soon as possible!

Contact Jerry Vargas, Travel Specialist for more information or to make your booking by calling him at 919-578-9028, ext. 129 or
Click Here To Email Him!
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Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes!

10/26/2017

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Is Costa Rica on your bucket list for your next family vacation?  Adventure with Sam has the perfect combination of adventure and fun-filled memories for the entire family!

The sights and sounds of the jungle are joined by the calm of thermal mineral pools, volcanic walks and white sandy beaches on this family adventure.

You'll enjoy Insider moments like... meeting volunteers who strive to protect the sea turtles that nest in Tortuguero National Park; hearing how the turtles can weigh up to 1,100 pounds and that a female can lay more than 100 eggs at one time. And it's seeing the excitement on your family's faces as they fly between trees on a zip line, adding to the squeals and shrieks of the jungle.

Your amazing family vacation in Costa Rica includes seven nights accommodations, 15 meals and all transportation and sightseeing mentioned.
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Arrive in San Jose

Bienvenidos a Costa Rica.  You're going to have more fun than a barrel of monkeys on this incredible adventure.  A local host will greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the hotel.  Relax by the pool before meeting your Travel Director and fellow explorers for a kick-off party. (Hotel: Sheraton San Jose)

San Jose - Tortuguero National Park (2 Nights)

Rise with the roosters and head east through Braulio Carrillo National Park toward the Caribbean Sea.  Board a river boat, gliding through canals, lagoons and lowland rainforest teeming with wildlife.  Join a local Specialist from the Sea Turtle Conservancy Foundation to learn about the incredible turtles that nest in Tortuguero.  Enjoy a buffet dinner tonight at the resort's open-air restaurant along the Tortuguero Lagoon. (Hotel:  Laguna Lodge Tortuguero)
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Tortuguero Sightseeing

There's nothing like the wake-up call of a troop of howler monkeys.  Set off on a cruise through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park with your captain and guide. Look out for sloths, green iguanas, cayman, crocodiles and colorful toucans.  Of course, you'll spot tons of monkeys swinging through the dense rainforest canopy.  This afternoon, venture back out on the canals or relax back at the lodge.  If you're visiting during nesting season (July - September), you 'll join an optional night walk with a naturalist guide to witness some of the world's largest turtles laying their eggs.
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Tortuguero - Horquetas - Sarapiqui - Arenal National Park (2 Nights)

Bid adios to the monkeys for now as you boat back to the mainland and travel to Horquetas to visit a local Tico family's palm plantation.  Travel to quaint Sarapiqui where you'll visit a wildlife center for amphibians and reptiles run by a family of biologists who rehabilitate animals that can no longer live in the wild.

Arenal National Park Sightseeing

Rise and shine as the forest and volcano call you back.  Start the day with a guided trek around the volcano at Arenal National Park.  Walk through the old lava rocks and learn more about the powerful forces behind the volcano's past eruptions.  Then head for the Arenal Hanging Bridges to walk eye-level with the lush canopy, observe monkeys, sloths and chattering birds up close and look out to see Arenal Volcano.
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Arenal National Park - Manuel Antonio National Park (2 Nights)

Get ready to have a blast.  Imagine yourself soaring high above the jungle floor as you zip-line through the treetops, eye-to-eye with the lush foliage and exotic rainforest creatures - a once in a lifetime adventure.  Head south to Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its warm blue waters, sparking white sand beaches and abundant wildlife.  This evening, join the gang for pizza night!  (Hotel:  Parador Resort and Spa)

Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing

Walking deep into the National Park with your guide, you'll check off a few more creatures on your wildlife list - at last count, there are over 109 different animals and 184 species of birds living here.  Listen to the whooping bark of howler monkeys and the chattering of mischievous squirrel and white-faced monkeys.  Then it's time to hit the beach.  Laze in the warm Pacific or at the resort's pool, or choose an optional catamaran cruise with snorkeling where you might see dolphins, parrotfish or sea turtles.  This evening, join your fellow explorers to celebrate new friendships and awesome experiences over a Farewell Dinner.

Manuel Antonio National Park - San Jose - Depart for Home

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Are You Ready For The Family Vacation of a Lifetime?

Our Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes Family Vacation Experience starts at just $1795 per person / double occupancy.  And...kids between 5 - 17 years of age are eligible for great savings of $188.00.  Triple and quad shares are eligible for discounts and so are early bird bookers!  Deposits of just $200.00 per person (non-refundable) will hold your space.  Dates available in February, March, June, July, and August of 2018.  Book now by contacting Sam Barnard at Adventure with Sam (a Groupit Travel affiliate agency) by contacting her at (936) 581-6896 or by Email.
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Castles, Kilts and Harry Potter!

10/26/2017

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Uncover the mystery and magic of a land of kings and queens, musicians, magicians, and mugs. See Harry Potter's London, stay in a castle and learn about life as a Roman soldier at Hardpan's Wall.  You'll tour the university city of Oxford, see the birthplace of the Beatles and hear tales of bravery, treason and intrigue in Edinburgh.

Your exciting family vacation to 3 countries includes 9 nights hotel accommodations, 13 meals and all transportation and sightseeing as mentioned.
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Arrive in London (3 Nights)

Delight in the magic and mystery of an ancient land of kings and queens, knights and magical creatures.  Explore with your clan before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a memorable kick-off bash. (Hotel: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross)

London Sightseeing

March down the grand boulevards and secret lanes of London, exploring the city's iconic sights with a Local Specialist.  Practice your royal wave at Buckingham Palace, snap a selfie in front of Big Ben and see where Britain's royalty has been crowned since the 11th century.  Shrug off your Muggle mantle and see the red telephone box where Harry Potter and Mr. Weasley descend into the secret Ministry of Magic in "Order of the Phoenix". Then head to platform 9 3/4 to see if you can catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express.  Admire the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace before enjoying free time for a leisure lunch at St. Katherine's Dock near Tower Bridge.  Our last stop today is the brooding Tower of London where we'll rub shoulders with the Beefeaters and see the Crown Jewels.

London

Soak up the buzzing multicultural atmosphere of London on this full day at leisure.  Explore the wonders of science and centuries of natural history at the city's fascinating museums, delve into the dark depths of the London Dungeon or take a spin on the London Eye.  You can even take a day trip to Windsor Castle or wherever you like - and we'll help you get there!
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London - Oxford - Lacock - Bath

Imagine yourself as an Oxford scholar as you enjoy a quick visit to the imposing historic hall of Oxford's Divinity School at the Boolean Library.  This was used as the film location for Hogwarts magic school Infirmary.  Later we continue to the pretty Wiltshire village of lack to see Harry Potter's house.  Perhaps visit the 13th century Lacock Abbey or maybe devour a traditional afternoon tea and cake in one of the local tea rooms before arriving in Bath for our overnight stay.  (Hotel: Hilton City)

Bath - Llangollen - Ruthin Castle

Gain insights into the elegant city of Bath during Roman times, enjoying an orientation that will include beautiful Pulteney bridge and a visit to the Roman Baths from which the city derives its name.  Visit the Pump Room and view the 15th century Bath Abbey before crossing the border into Wales.  We stop in the historic town of Llangollen, famous for its annual Eisteddfod, and then meander over the picturesque Horseshoe Pass to a charming medieval castle where we'll spend the next two nights.  Dine like lords and ladies this evening enjoying a delicious Welsh dinner with your new travel friends.  (Hotel:  Ruthin Castle)
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Excursion to Liverpool

Twist and shout your way through Liverpool, home of the "Fab Four", enjoying a full day to explore this fulfilled city.  Discover treasures from across the world at the World Museum and consider joining an Optional Experience past Liverpool's iconic sites, including the Cathedral and Mathew Street, birthplace of the Beatles. We return to our regal home-away-from-home this afternoon for free time to relax or ramble along its ancient walls and through the beautiful castle grounds.

Ruthin Castle - Tatton Park

Discover centuries of history at Tatton Park set within a picturesque 1,000-acre deer park.  We'll join the butler and housekeeper of this elegant medieval manor house for a guided tour of the day-to-day of English aristocrats once upon a time.  We continue north to the Lake District, whose enchanting landscapes have inspired poets and writers for centuries.  Consider boarding a steam train and cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere before arriving at your hotel, where you'll dine tonight. (Hotel: Lancaster House)

Lancaster - Hadrian's Wall - Edinburgh (2 Nights)

Experience life as a brave Roman soldier on Emperor Hadrian's northern frontier, exploring the treasures of the Roman Army Museum and Hadrian's Wall, built in 122 AD.  We cross into bonnie Scotland and arrive in the charismatic capital of Edinburgh which we have an opportunity to explore tonight at leisure. During the Edinburgh Festival, tickets to the Edinburgh Tattoo in the spectacular castle grounds are included! (Hotel: Holiday Inn)
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Edinburgh Sightseeing

Delve into the magic of Edinburgh's iconic sights and stunning landscapes as you join a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist.  Ramble up the Royal Mile and see the tall spires of the Scott Monument before embarking on your choice of sightseeing to the Edinburgh's Camera Osbscura or the Edinburgh Castle, where you'll hear tales of bravery, treason and intrigue.  Get lost in Auld Leekie, rambling through its secret lanes and past medieval facades or join your Travel Director for an optional experience.  Our epic family adventure is almost at its end.  Celebrate a memorable vacation with new friends and your Travel Director at a special Farewell Dinner.

Depart Edinburgh for Home

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Ready for Castles, Kilts and Harry Potter?

Prices start at only $2695.00 per person / double occupancy with great discounts for kids aged 5 - 17 years old, triple and quadruple occupancy, and early booking savings!  Dates to choose from during May, June, July, August and September. These dates sell out so quickly that we recommend you make your deposit of $200.00 per person as soon as possible!

Contact Karen Goltermann, SunkisTravel, an affiliate agency of Groupit Travel for more information or to make your booking by calling 585-747-1609 or Click Here To Email Her!
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