Honoring Our Nation’s Heros

As September 11th is fast approaching it marks the 7th anniversary of that horrible and tragic day in history and I can still recall the exact feelings I experienced at the time.  My husband was a New York City Detective and was one of many NYC officers who responded to the call to the Trade Towers.  En route he was instructed to respond and aid in the search and rescue at a nearby building that had been compromised.   I remember frantically watching the news, fearing that another building would collapse and maybe my spouse wouldn’t return home.  When my husband came home the next day, he smelled like sulfur.  We put his clothes in the trash and embraced each other and our 2 small girls, grateful for his safe return and grieving for those who didn’t make it home to their families.
 
We had our annual Orlando family vacation scheduled for the following week - we debated if we should even go, but the officers were encouraged to keep any scheduled vacations because the months ahead would not allow them to do so.
 
I remember our drive from New York was solemn and sobering.  As we drove over the bridge and we looked at the beautiful NY skyline which had been completely and forever altered, the sulfuric smoke still lingered in the air.  The sky was devoid of any activity since all airplanes were grounded.  It was as though we were in a dream.  When we reached our Orlando vacation rental, our two little girls, oblivious to the turmoil in the world, were gleeful and excited.  And they served as a reminder to us that there was still good in the world.  When we went to one of the Disney attractions, the park was virtually empty, a continual reminder that life as we had known had forever changed.  But, I vowed to enjoy every moment, not to take my time with my family for granted, knowing that in a moment it could be gone.  While the vacation was not one of the best vacations we’ve had, it certainly was one of the most necessary.
 
Global recognizes the sacrifices of our officers, fireman, and military and the sacrifices of their families. In honor of those sacrifices, Global is proud to offer an Orlando military discount and special rates to police and fire fighters.  We are truly thankful.

The GlenBrook Resort in Clermont

Before moving to Central Florida, whenever my family vacationed in Orlando, we never ventured too far from the tourist areas.  Our vacation radius was no more than 15 miles from our resort or the attractions. We actually envisioned all of Central Florida as a myriad of restaurant chains, outlet malls, miles of highway, amusement and water parks. When my family decided to relocate to Central Florida a few years ago, we were unsure where to begin our house hunt.  Although, we love the hustle and bustle of the world’s number one vacation destination, to us, home is a sanctuary and a place to retreat.  We enjoy the serenity of a quiet walk, the view of beautiful countryside, the scent of fresh cut grass, the sound of children running carelessly in the yard, the utopia of suburban life.  We didn’t know that we would discover that lifestyle located only fifteen minutes from the Disney attractions, in a western suburb of Orlando, the city of Clermont.

Clermont is referred to as the “gem of the hills”.  It’s located in Lake County, a county known for having over 1,000 lakes and rivers.  Although, most of Central Florida is flat terrain, Clermont is known for it’s rolling hills, picturesque parks and neighborhoods surrounded by natural wonders.  Clermont is a thriving city and although it’s growing rapidly, Clermont still maintains the small town “Old Florida” culture.  In Downtown Clermont, you can shop at the farmers market every Sunday, where you can purchase fresh produce, fruit, vegetables, honey and herbs.  While taking a stroll downtown, you can always stop into Lyn’s Ice Cream and Deli Sandwich shoppe and enjoy a old-fashioned malt, banana split, or sundae made from hand-dipped ice cream.  Downtown Clermont is full of antique shops, dining, and entertainment, located on the shore of beautiful Lake Minneola.
 
 One of the most famous attractions in Clermont is the Citrus Tower.  It towers over 500 feet above sea level and is known as one of Florida’s first attractions.  From the glass enclosed observation deck you can see the panoramic view of Clermont’s rolling hills and orange groves.  Citrus Tower is also home to Lilly’s Citrus Tower gift shop, located on the first floor.  This gift shop sells a variety of home and garden products, Yankee candles, Florida made jams and jellies, Florida candies, unique baby gifts, and even carries Crabtree and Evelyn products, Webkinz and so much more.

The Glenbrook Resort is located in the beautiful city of Clermont.   Many of our guests enjoy staying in Glenbrook, because it’s not only close to all the major attractions, but also affords the opportunity to experience the charm, beauty, and lifestyle of Clermont. Next time you are vacationing in the Central Florida area, go west on Hwy 192, then North on Hwy 27 and take a venture into the city of Clermont, the  “Gem of the Hills”, where you will experience the charm of “Old Florida” culture and history.

Personal Chef

One of the beautiful features of a Global Resort Vacation home is having your very own fully equipped kitchen. Many of these kitchens offer state of the art appliances and amenities fit for a chef.  However, if you are like me and are culinary-challenged, or if you simply don’t feel like preparing a meal after a long day at the park, how about hiring a personal chef?

We are proud to recommend Linda Page, a member of the USPCA (United States Personal Chef Association) and owner of the chef service, “A Chef of Your Own”.  Linda graduated first in her culinary school and did a 3 year 6,000 hour apprenticeship with Westin Hotels and the American Culinary Federation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  She has served as an Assistant Pastry Chef, junior Sous Chef at a gourmet restaurant, and teaches a variety of cooking classes.

Just imagine coming back home from a busy day at the parks, opening the door and smelling the aroma of chicken marsala with rice pilaf, fresh baked rolls, and homemade lemon pie.  Linda’s menus are vast and can satisfy a variety of palates.  If you are more of connoisseur of gourmet foods, you might want to try her Greek chicken with raisins and feta, or maybe a specialty salad made of romaine lettuce, goat cheese, and toasted almonds. If you are in the mood for good old’ comfort food you might request a menu with broccoli cheddar soup, pigs in a blanket, barbecue pulled pork, homemade baked beans, and potato salad, then finish the meal with some of Linda’s homemade cookies.

So, next time you vacation with Global, treat yourself to “ A Chef of Your Own” Bon Appétit!!!  Visit http://www.mychefsite.com/achefofyourown .