The History of Moonwalks

Moonwalks have come a long way since their birth over 50 years ago. Creator John Scurlock of Shreveport, Louisiana could hardly have imagined the popularity his simple air cushion would have half a century later. Scurlock was a mechanical engineer and inventor of the inflatable rescue pad used by fire fighters to catch victims jumping from tall buildings. In 1959, Scurlock’s employees found his inflatable tennis court cover to be more fun when bounced on. This inspired Scurlock to create an inflatable floor specifically for recreational purposes, and birthday parties haven’t been the same since. Scurlock was a former NASA employee and there is no doubt that the world’s obsession with walking on the moon at that time helped launch the “Space Walk” in its initial introduction into the marketplace. However, it is the simplistic joy these inflatables inspire that has kept the world’s interest and earned the moonwalk a place in popular culture history.

Today, the industry has grown to include inflatable marketing, obstacle courses, interactive games, water slides, and hundreds of variations on the “moonwalk” or “bounce house.” These popular rentals are staples not only at children’s birthday parties, but city fairs, company picnics, school events and corporate team-building workshops. Designs range from simple colors on a square bounce house for five children to elaborate inflatable obstacle courses featuring a forty foot tall Tyrannosaurus Rex. So, the next time you find yourself whizzing down a 36 foot tall inflatable space shuttle slide, remember this attraction’s humble beginnings five decades ago and marvel at how far it has come.

Parco San Marco

It’s the start of a new year and I already feel like I need a vacation. Some place with water, massage, good food…ahhh….I’m already feeling better. How about a Lake Lagano Vacation! I remember reading that George Clooney has a home in Italy and I wondered what the draw was to that particular region. Hello! Gorgeous!

Could it get any better than a Spa Hotel in Italy…I think not! Relaxing on the shore of the lake, getting a massage and a facial in a serene setting…. Sign me up! Just thinking about sleeping in a clean, comfortable room that I don’t have to clean is almost enough for me, but throw in a hot tub and fabulous restaurants…ok, you twisted my arm.

Check out Lake Como Golf. You might just run into Mr. Clooney there. I personally don’t golf, but I could walk around and get some exercise. A beautiful setting and the chance to glimpse one of the hottest celebrities on the planet….I could handle that. Now, if only I could talk my sister into having her wedding there and paying for it all!

Sak Narwal

Sak Narwal has loved fishing all of his life. He is interested in the feeding habits and environments of the fish, as well as gathering pleasure from his “connection with nature.” He is also fascinated with the technology used in fishing, besides enjoying a relaxing time in a beautiful setting. “Fishing has taken me to some of the wildest and most beautiful natural settings,” Sak Narwal says.

While he travels around the globe looking for his next fishing experience, he says he is strictly a “catch and release” fisherman. I certainly hope so, since several sharks are on his list of favorite catches. Sak Narwal fishes nearly every week in places like the Florida Keys, the Delaware River, Long Island, and the marshes of Louisiana.

Mohammed Babangida

Mohammed Babangida loves polo. I would love to see a polo match. It looks like such an elegant sport. Perhaps that is because it is played on horses. They are such graceful and powerful creatures that they make anything look sophisticated.

Mohammed Babangida lives in Nigeria, which is the most populous country in Africa. An interesting fact is that it is believed to contain the world’s largest diversity of butterflies. Nigeria is one of the world’s largest exporters of cocoa, palm oil and coconuts, so I would be all set on my diet.

Mohammed Babangida is committed to his family and philanthropic activities. It is always nice to hear that about busy executives. It is comforting to know that people still make time for the truly important things in life like family and giving back to the community that has given them so much.

1-800 Flowers

A new year means a new reason to use 1-800 Flowers! How did they know that one of my many New Year’s resolutions was to remember more birthdays this year?! They make it easy with gifts starting at just $19.99. They now have a Free Birthday Gift Reminder Service that will alert you to those special days. The Cupcake in Bloom is just too cute!

Now that the holidays are over, let 1-800 Flowers help you out with Valentine’s Day. It is just around the corner! Order early to get free shipping! Maybe this year, you could try giving your sweetheart the Belgian Chocolate Covered Oreo Tin. Yum!! Or try the Martha Stewart Breakfast in Maine Hamper. So original!

Since I’m expecting a little boy this Spring, I’ve got my eye on the 1-800 Flowers New Baby section. New moms love useful gifts like the Puppy Dog Tails First Year Gift Set or the Grand Baby-Cakes Boy Essentials. Hint, hint, family and friends.

Frank Hanna

In his new book, “What Your Money Means and How To Use It Well,” Frank Hanna explores the traps and trials caused by our society’s obsession with money. He maintains that money is not a burden, but can be “a force for good in our lives.”

Frank Hanna debunks the myth that money is the root of all evil. "Money allows our modern economy to work more efficiently," he explained. “However, as with other things, we can develop an unhealthy attachment to it. Any unhealthy appetite can hurt us, including an unhealthy appetite for money. But that does not mean that money is bad, just as food is not bad, even if some people eat too much of it."

In his book, Frank Hanna also talks about how money is a gift from God, but this gift frequently gets abused because we do not understand its purpose.

Gina Penzarella

My little sister got engaged over the Thanksgiving holiday! (Congratulations, Baby Sister!) So, we’ve been spending a lot of time talking about dates and locations, flowers and food… I love it! Of course, one of the most important things is the DRESS! We’re big on internet shopping, so that’s where we’re starting.
I think she would look great in something like this Alexia Bridal gown with an embellished pick-up skirt. While the Footlights Boutique, owned by Gina Penzarella, is in Pennsylvania, my sister could have the dress shipping to her. Since the gowns are 50% off, that could still be a bargain! Gina Penzarella is originally from New York City, so she seems to be very in tune with current bridal trends.

I may have to use Gina Penzarella for the bridesmaid gowns, as well. I found one that was an elegant black and while slip dress. That would be something I could use again after the wedding. Thinking ahead!