Since it was at a resort hotel, we decided to dress up a little bit. The other people on the tour dressed more casually but I couldn't help but overhear they had booked the overnight package instead of just the tour with dinner. Maybe when I have a real pay-check, I'll do the same (although Ben's already informed me he wouldn't do something like stay at a haunted hotel!).

Our tour guide was enthusiastic, and led us around the first floor and fifth floor where paranormal phenomena was reported to be seen/heard. I didn't have any expectations going in but there were some creepy stories and photos blown-up and framed on the walls that make one reconsider things. 

Part of the tour took us outside. The sun was just beginning to set and it cast a nice glow on the resort. According to the tour guide, around the time the hotel was built, there was no set standard on the new 'concrete' invention so the builders just doubled up on everything. Apparently, it's one of the reasons why this hotel has stood for so long and even passed through a fire unscathed. Looking at the building from the outside, I tried to picture how it must have looked a hundred years ago. I tried to picture a big jazz band, something like the rat pack, playing in the grand music hall. Surely the music would have seeped out into the front lawn where others were walking around.

On the fifth floor, we were told a sad story about a rich fiance waiting for her beau who as out to sea. His ship was lost, she was told he passed, and she clung to the hope he survived. After several months, her grief grew and she apparently took her life in her favorite hotel suite. Unfortunately, her beau did survive (he was picked up by a Cuban ship?) and he returned to the hotel. They say her ghost lingers because of her dismay that she didn't hold out longer. The interesting thing is the rooms upstairs, especially the one we visited, is always requested by newlyweds. Way to spice up your life.

The dinner followed downstairs. There was a pianist and double bassist downstairs so we enjoyed live music while clinking wine glasses and enjoying dinner. First appetizers were soft cornbread biscuits with butter and jalapeno jam. We had a pecan and pear salad with an unknown vinaigrette. I ordered the salmon while Ada and Maryam ordered chicken. The dessert was a cheesecake with a side of chocolate and strawberries.

Another memorable day and night. If I can be allowed to be greedy this year, I want to have more and more fun times with friends and family before school!