Years ago, before the many platforms where opinions on just about everything were available, I passed a new French restaurant and bakery in Southern California everyday on my way to and from work. Just after opening, I finally got to visit and shared my experience on a popular website for restaurant reviews. Well, that was the first and last time I would do that! I was virtually reamed out and criticized by self-p
roclaimed "food critics" saying I must be affiliated with the establishment I reviewed, otherwise, why would I say such favorable things? I knew right then and there I was in the wrong place. So I created my own place; a place where I could share my opinion about anything and everything without the threat of people turning positive experiences into negative ones. I call it 5 Heart Rating.
Most of my life I have struggled with one particular aspect of my personality. Until now! I have opinions on just about anything you can imagine and I have finally found a way to apply this personality trait to something I really enjoy. Along with this seemingly natural ability to critique, I have always had the tendency to try to find the good in things. With my diverse background and many varied experiences in life, I have compiled a list of what I call 5 Heart Ratings. This is a unique, completely subjective rating system in which only the best of the best are featured. My hope is that through my blog I will continue a lifelong passion of bringing attention to great people, businesses, products, services, and experiences by rewarding them with the distinction of a 5 Heart Rating. Take a look at my blog to find out more and please feel free to offer your own suggestions for me to review to see if your recommendation earns a 5 Heart Rating!
In addition to my blog, I am a brand manager, travel designer, special events organizer, Yoga instructor, investor, with experience managing trusts and as a stocks and options trader, with previous careers in retail management and special events with the Walt Disney World organization. I've been on the ground floor of the opening of many new divisions with Disney including the Orlando International Airport and many other companies, small to huge. I have had an exciting career as a travel agent and as a professional development instructor at travel trade schools in Florida and Tokyo. I love to cook, especially bake, having been a professional baker in one of the best french bakeries in the United States. I have years of fundraising experience and have lived and studied in Japan and speak the language. I am a 2nd-degree black belt in the martial art Aikido, and have traveled all around the United States, Europe, Canada, Japan, and Mexico. I have managed world-class luxury, historic inns and currently run a travel and events design company, presenting unique wine and wellness events and travel experiences in the United States, Europe, and Japan. I have also been a "mystery shopper" in the hospitality industry offering my opinion regarding fine dining and resort accommodations and amenities. Over the years I have guided several groups through Europe and Japan and have coordinated numerous cultural exchanges between sister-cities in France, Japan, Netherlands, and the US. In my spare time, I have coached high school and Special Olympics tennis and find great passion in helping others lead a healthful, happy life through Yoga, Zen and meditation and relaxation practice. Oh, and my daughter said I should mention I am a mom, which has brought tremendous joy to my existence. My son and daughter are both living their dreams, navigating their way through the world, and leaving their own unique footprint. It's a 5 Heart life for me. I hope it is for you too!
