Photos of Me...

Life is this funny thing that we plan for. We have dreams, hopes and goals, but when it comes down to it . Life is what you make of it!





If you try  remember that at the end of it all . .. the important things are the people in your life, the memories that you have shared, and the love of friends and family.  You will come to understand and strive to live a life that gives you all the things that are really important.



Ask yourself..."When I wake up in the morning, am I happy with my memories, do I spend time doing the things I like with the people who are important to me?"... What is missing?"

If you decide that life is worth living to its fullest, not matter what, maybe you should live it where those goals can be accomplished.
 

 Because at the end of the day... we have  photos in an album , and stories that we share !!



 Do you have enough???









"Life is and Adventure... Live it Here!"

"Rubber Ducky... You're the One!"

Ducky Derbies are becoming a fun thing to do when you need to raise money for a charity and you couldn't ask for a  better place to do it than at Heritage Harbor Marina in Ottawa, Il.

This Sunday ( September 5, 2010) as part of the long holiday weekend Heritage Harbor Marina  along with Marquette Academy will be hosting it's third annual charity Ducky Derby. Hundreds of ducks will be making their way around the harbor.

What could be better than  happy little rubber duckies being dumped into the harbor and sent on the merry little way. Who ever " adopts" the fastest ducky wins. But even the slowest ducky get something... the duck that paddles the slowest and comes in last wins $100.00 How cool is that!

The holiday weekend signals the end of summer and the unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season... or so it seems. This years event will be full of crafters and local vendors showcasing their best  merchandise and homemade crafts to either give as gifts or to decorate your home.

Not that I even want to think about it, but it's coming so why not get prepared early. Decorations, gifts, and cool things for yourself...  isn't that the best part of shopping !!





So be adventurous this weekend and take a drive to see the duckies dive in and I bet you will float away with some great items, and a good feeling.

" Life is an Adventure... Live it Here"

Food... Is it wrong to love it?

There is a local restaurant in  Starved Rock Country  that serves food that is very different from the regular Midwestern food that we are used to.

Cajun food is not what one thinks about when you are in Illinois. You think hamburgers,  pizza, ...yeah defiantly  Pizza , but Cajun...nope that is not what pops into my head when you are thinking about what to eat for dinner.



However, Cajun Connection just outside Utica, IL, is this little place that when you drive past doesn't look like much , but the food is AMAZING! Alligator, jambalaya, etouffee’, or jumbo shrimp,  fried corn, and so much more.

 Some of the dishes are served with Vodoo sauce... first off I want to know what it is and what can it do???
Because that just sounds awesome.

Getting a drink with dinner is just a part of life so  make sure to order a Turbo Dog  then stick around for desert because any restaurant that serves AMAZING bread pudding with sauce deserved a stop regardless of whether you eat anything else... but you will .. PROMISE

The local reviewer / concierge  service  called "Honey Let's Eat" gives this place great reviews.

So the next time you are in Starved Rock Country. Stop by the little pink house outside Utica, Illinois and get yourself some gator... you will be glad you did. 

"Life is an Adventure ... Live it Here!"

How Cool is Mother Nature!

It is amazing how many things there are to do right in your own back yard that you were never away of.

Free things which makes them even better!



3 State Parks...

Starved Rock State Park... listed as one of Illinois 7 wonders of the state. Beautiful trails that are open all year to hike, complete with wildlife...and I don't mean your kids...18 Canyons, picturesque waterfalls, and 2,630 acres of lush forests that includes over 200 different wildflowers. How awesome is that.

Matthiessen State Park...
Where you can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. The Park was originally referred to as “Deer Park,” in reference to the large deer population.

Buffalo Rock State Park...
Located on a bluff which was once an island in the Illinois River. This 298 acre park is the home of two American bison. That is not something you see everyday now is it?

The parks are all free and so is parking. So grab the kids and the picnic basket and make a day of it... don't forget the camera!





You can get great pictures and how cool would it be to spend the day together doing something that doesn't require a cell signal (even though there is one)and or an outlet.

Unplug the kids, turn off the TV ... and go spend sometime doing something different this weekend.

"Life is an Adventure ... Live it Here!"

Wii that was FUN!

Who would have ever thought that combining a large group of strangers in a pub with a Wii bowling game could be so much fun!


Last Saturday night (August 21, 2010) Crawdad's Bar & Grill in combination with Heritage Harbor Ottawa hosted their second annual Wii bowling tournament.

With a blind draw for teams it encouraged the 36 adults who participated to mingle and get to know new people.

Their were prizes and one's pride on the line! Somehow cash and bragging rights apparently brings out one's competitive spirit... who knew!

Being a family friendly resort Heritage Harbor also has a Wii tournament for the kids who wanted to participate as well; however their beer frame consisted of soda.

The whole event was so much fun that maybe the next time Crawdad's can "Rock Out" with a Guitar Hero night... Now that would be a blast!


Life is an Adventure.... Live it Here!

What is the Adventure Lifestyle ?

An Adventure Lifestyle is an active lifestyle.

When you think about being adventurous what comes to mind? Is it simply trying new activities or going new places. How about trying different things to eat or getting to meet new people. Life is full of possibilities but unless you take a chance and dare to try new things you will not be able to enjoy life to its fullest.

So what defines your adventure lifestyle?
Do you look forward to trying an exciting or an unusual experience, or do you what to participate in an exciting undertaking.

Skydiving, boating, hiking, wakeboarding, glassblowing, taking a class or two, shopping, or enjoy all the gifts that Mother Nature has provided in Starved Rock Country.

When you think about living life to the fullest, do you have a plan?

Make a list of all the adventures you want to take and the memories you want to make, then come to a place where you are close enough to enjoy the benefits of the city but far enough away to enjoy a different type of life.

Take an adventure... But make it your adventure!

The Adventure Lifestyle awaits in the heart of Starved Rock Country at Heritage Harbor Ottawa.

This Weekend!

Heritage Harbor Ottawa and Crawdad's Bar & Grill are hosting a fun filled Saturday.




Sand volleyball starting at 1 pm and a Wii Bowling Tournament in Crawdad's begins at 8:30pm.


Come spend some time at the marina and bring your friends.
There will be Drink & Food Specials.

The Adventure Lifestyle awaits you at Heritage Harbor Ottawa.

Take a Dip

Heritage Harbor Ottawa opened its members only pool earlier this summer. The private membership fee not only grants you the privilege of using the resort community's latest amenity, you can enjoy a swim while enjoying an amazing view like no other. Private membership means less crowds and a cleaner facility.


The pool is located directly above the harbor and has a private shower and changing area.
Food delivery service is available from Crawdad's during the restaurant's usually hours of operation.

Family memberships are still available for the 2010 season. Come enjoy the remaining warm days of summer at Heritage Harbor Marina.

The Adventure Lifestyle awaits you in the heart of Starved Rock Country at Heritage Harbor Ottawa

Heritage Harbor Marina Access to Adventure

Premier Resort Community

Take a deep breath and feel the stress of the day slip away: this picturesque, marina resort community offers an adventure lifestyle that lets you reconnect with your family, your friends, your community, and the natural beauty that is Starved Rock Country.



Leisurely cruise along the majestic Illinois River, where the breathtaking backdrop of the tree-covered, sandstone bluffs allow you to enjoy the natural beauty as it changes from season to season. Our impeccably designed neighborhood with a prime riverfront location directly along the Illinois River is the perfect location to begin your next great adventure.

Nestled in the heart of Starved Rock Country, Heritage Harbor Ottawa is the premier marina resort community in the Midwest and unlike any other. Enjoy year round outdoor activities and discover the unique world of resort–style living with all that it has to offer.

This extraordinary resort community can appeal to a wide variety of tastes; be it waterfront property, year round residence, a vacation home, boaters lifestyle, a hikers dream, or nature buff, no matter what type of adventure lifestyle you wish to enjoy, it can all be found within our premier resort community at Heritage Harbor Ottawa. We even offer an Adventure Lifestyle director who plans events at the marina year round.


The tranquility of Starved Rock Country’s vast natural beauty and the small town charm of the local communities allow you to get away from it all while still being just a short drive from larger urban destinations and activities. When you are a part of Heritage Harbor Ottawa you are never far away from your ideal adventure!

Helping you experience the best of Starved Rock Country is just one more example of the type of personal service you can expect when you are a part of Heritage Harbor Ottawa.

The Adventure Lifestyle awaits at Heritage Harbor Ottawa in the heart of Starved Rock Country.

The Building of a Dream

Sometimes it is hard to envision the end result when building a community, but at Heritage Harbor Ottawa, the big picture is in the works.






A waterfront community nestled along the banks of the majestic Illinois River in the heart of Starved Rock Country. The Heritage Harbor community will enjoy the wonderful unique features of Ottawa, with its small town charm and unique collection of eclectic shops and restaurants; as well as, the four star marina and resort.


Become a part of a waterfront community unlike any other. Heritage Harbor Ottawa is poised to be the most exciting marina resort community in the Midwest. With a first class marina, and a commitment to the natural surroundings, Heritage Harbor Ottawa rivals such waterfront communities as Galena, IL, Bay Harbor, MI, New Buffalo, Michigan, or Lake Geneva, WI.

Quality homes, picturesque surroundings, and limitless adventures in the heart of Starved Rock Country Heritage Harbor Ottawa is the place to live your dream. Come for a visit and we promise you will want to stay for a lifetime.

The Adventure Lifestyle awaits you in the heart of Starved Rock Country at Heritage Harbor Ottawa

Country Music comes to Starved Rock Country

Concerts in Starved Rock Country are held in venues that allow you an opportunity truly enjoy the entertainment. From the annual charity event “Concerts for a Cause” to local county fairs that are just a short car ride away, you can see chart topping artists in outdoor venues that give you that up close and personal experience unlike any other.

Spend the evening with family and friends and enjoy chart topping live entertainment in a family friendly environment. When you are a part Heritage Harbor Ottawa your Adventure Lifestyle is our priority!

Starved Rock Country has more to offer than you ever imagined!

Lady Antebellum
Saturday August 14, 2010 “Concerts for a Cause” benefit, Cedar Point Sportsman Club, LaSalle
This annual event has grown over the years, bringing some of country’s top acts to the area. Country superstars such as Willie Nelson, Blues Traveler, The BoDeans, Jason Aldean, Chris Cagle, Montgomery Gentry and Sugarland and the proceeds from the concert go to benefit a local school or some other worthy cause.
This amazing charity event has raised over $162,000 for local causes.

Craig Morgan
Friday Aug. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bureau County Fair, Princeton, IL

Jake Owen & Jason Michael Carroll
Friday September 10, 2010 at 7:00 pm at the 123rd Sandwich Fair, Sandwich IL


Just one more reason why Starved Rock Country is such a great place to live and play!


The Adventure Lifestyle awaits at Heritage Harbor Ottawa in the heart of Starved Rock Country.

Welcome Home!

Whether you are looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, Heritage Harbor Ottawa has perfect home style for your next great adventure!





The Scout offers the finest in Cottage Living, with a welcoming front porch and double-door entry. With just one step inside the front door you’ll notice the detailed craftsmanship of granite counter tops, oversized white trim, upgraded cabinetry, stainless-steel appliances, hardwood floors and much more.

The Adventure Lifestyle includes family and friends and this home comes complete with a grand gathering room equipped with a fireplace, which is the perfect place to create cherished memories.

The master suite is conveniently located on the first floor. The rest of your family and friends will stay in comfort with a Jack and Jill bath that serves both a second bedroom and loft. A quick trip up the ship’s ladder reveals our signature feature, the Crow’s Nest, for some incredible views.

This beautiful home can come complete with unfinished basement roughed-in for a full bath and bedroom, a two-car detached garage and just a short walk to either the River or Harbor.

The quality of homes, the picturesque surroundings, and the limitless adventures found in Starved Rock Country make Heritage Harbor Ottawa a place like no other.

Heritage Harbor Ottawa is the most exciting marina resort community in the Midwest. With luxurious homes, a first class marina, and a commitment to the natural surroundings, Heritage Harbor Ottawa rivals such waterfront communities as Galena, IL, Bay Harbor, MI, New Buffalo, Michigan, or Lake Geneva, WI.

When thinking about living your dream be sure to consider Heritage Harbor Ottawa. Stop by for a tour or call (815) 433-5000 for details.

The Adventure Lifestyle Awaits you in the heart of Starved Rock Country at Heritage Harbor Ottawa.

A Boater's Dream

At Heritage Harbor the full-service marina offers over 460 slips, a full service fuel dock with gas and diesel, pump-out services, and concierge services.

Just call the staff and let them know when you expect to arrive, and your boat will be stocked and ready to go.

Heritage Harbor Marina boaters enjoy a great partnership with Quest Watersports, a full-service boat dealership with an on-call mechanical staff; and at Quest the philosophy is simple: “boating should be fun and hassle-free.”

Living life aboard your own boat is a dream comes true for many people; however, if you didn’t grow up on the water, the boating language can be a bit confusing. The knowledgeable, professional staff at Quest Watersports is available to make you feel at ease, even when the only thing you know about a boat is that you really want one.

Quest offers a premium lineup of upscale vessels, along with a complete set of boating services, and wants to be your boating partner.

Besides offering both new and used boats, services and accessories, Quest Watersports now offers the boating lifestyle without the commitment of owning a boat. Quest Express is a new member’s only boat club that allows you to try the boating lifestyle without the commitment or expense of boat ownership. An annual membership gives you a fleet of boats to choose from. So whether you are looking to take out a large group on a pontoon boat, or just looking to do some tubing with a few friends, Quest Express has the perfect boat for you.

Membership has its advantages… boat orientation, safety training, unlimited use of a fleet of boats, whenever and as often as you like. At Heritage Harbor Marina complimentary concierge services are available… when you arrive your boat is clean, fueled, and ready for you. Just turn the key and enjoy a day on the water and when you are ready to return simply dock and walk away.

So whether you own your own boat or are a member of Quest Express, Heritage Harbor Ottawa and Quest Watersports can provide the Adventure Lifestyle you have always dreamed of.

The Quest Watersports showroom is conveniently located just down the road from Heritage Harbor Ottawa, the most exciting marina resort community in the Midwest.

The Adventure Lifestyle in the heart of Starved Rock Country awaits you at Heritage Harbor Ottawa.