Birthday in Paradise at Zoetry in Dominican Republic!

I've always been secretly happy that my birthday is on July 15th and smack dab in the middle of summer. It means I've never had to go to school and usually not to work on my birthday.

This year the timing was perfect for my birthday as we are enjoying our last couple of days in the tropical paradise of Dominican Republic.

My favorite birthday companion #spoiled me a bit

With a significant number of difficulties marking the beginning of our trip this phase at Zoetry Agua has been completely sublime.

This little guy has kept us company during breakfast on our terrace.

Some spa time made the birthday girl very happy.

I'm not politically minded and I thought it was fun to see that Jon Stewart had 'favorited' one of my tweets.

Our dinner with some of our new fabulous friends from the pool. We laughed and bombed out at a merengue dance lesson together later.

Thanks for making my birthday perfect and hopefully we will all end up at Zoetry again someday!

I just wanted to say a quick thank you for so many lovely birthday wishes on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and text.

I feel truly blessed this year that my world has expanded in so many

incredible ways. The connections I've made with Stylemindchic Life mean the world to me.

Happy Birthday to my lovely mom today! Though we are separated by distance our birthdays always

stand side by side (she always tells me I was an early birthday present).

Looking forward to celebrating together.

Thanks for stopping by Stylemindchic Life!

Can't wait to catch up with everyone on our return.

xx,

                                         Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!

Paradise Found at Zoetry Agua in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

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The pool at Zoetry Agua Punta Cana

If you've been following Stylemindchic blog, and this journey to Punta Cana, you know that the early part of our trip was not an easy one. We had more than our share of delays due to the plane crash and lost luggage for days. We finally got our luggage and swimsuits when a tropical storm was forecast so the pool and beach were closed.  There were challenges all around......(and a few bright spots too-an unexpected night in Manhattan and Juan at the spa, Clare and Carlos at Secrets-thank you).

As of yesterday we have finally arrived at our true paradise. Zoetry Agua Punta Cana here is pure relaxation, tranquility and zen bliss. We finally feel rested for the first time and intend to make use of every moment of the rest of our vacation. I will post more on this incredible place and if you are seeking relaxation, peace, luxury, privacy, gorgeous beaches with a healthy vibe this could be your place too. So far our favoritedestination ever.

And now, back to my vacation

(although posting from our thatched roofed terrace overlooking the lazy river and ocean is my idea of the perfect spot!).

My view from the terrace

Al Fresco Life and Living Outside

Al Fresco Life

The al fresco lifestyle is all about taking life outside.  It's finally spring (joy!) and that means we are gearing up for the season of throwing open our windows, carrying our movable feasts to dine alfresco, the alluring possibility of lazy afternoon naps on the patio and warm evenings under the stars is on the horizon.

In Italian alfresco means "in the cool". Love that!

 It may be a fresh, sleek space with natural elements

or a classic, luxurious elegance with warm wood tones and a roaring fire.

There are elements of each photo that appeal to me. I've done outdoor living spaces of different styles over the years~from South of France to Cottage Garden to a sleeker, more modern version in our current space. We are working on an update and I will share more on that soon (yep-a do it yourself project-more honestly a do it 'himself' project).

No matter what my style of outdoor living space becomes I do have some essentials:

*Candles are a must to create an ambiance in my outdoor spaces.

*The sound of water~ a water feature, water fall or even a tabletop fountain~ creates a relaxing mood

*Fragrant plants (citrus, night blooming jasmine, tuberoses are all lovely)

*A throw blanket to ward off an evening chill

*A pot of herbs to pick for grilling or adding to alfresco dishes

*I love to add a curtain to a deck or patio space to soften the look-even in sleeker styles

*A fire element. Yes, to candles and the next step would be a flickering fire bowl or fireplace to set the mood.

What is your favorite style of outdoor living? Do you spend time zhushing up your space to get it ready for the season? Any tips?

What are your must-haves?

Here's to our upcoming al fresco season~are you like me? Can hardly wait!