For my birthday this year, Eric got me a spa package at Umstead Spa in Cary. Because of my sister’s wedding, our trip to Peru and the NC nonprofit’s conference were all back to back in late-August/early-September, I waited until now to make the reservation.

After dropping my car at the complimentary valet, I was whisked away to the spa area where a giant fluffy robe and massage slippers were waiting for me. I arrived early so I could take advantage of the whirlpool hot tub before my “Body Glo” exfoliation treatment and massage. The description from the Umstead website:

Your body will be exfoliated with a rich blend of sea salt and Umstead Bath and Body Gel, after which our luxurious Umstead Body Butter will be applied leaving your skin ‘baby soft’ and refreshed.

You lay on a table covered with towels (with one draped over you) and six rain-style showerheads above you spray warm water down while the sea salt rub is applied.  Absolutely lovely and very relaxing. Immediately following this was my 50 minute massage with lavender oil. The hiking this weekend did a number on my hips, so the therapist concentrated on that area and my lower back. My actual treatments only took about two hours, but I was there for about 3.5 hours total, trying out the sauna and hot tub again and reading trashy magazines while sipping on water laced with cucumbers.

I finally pried myself away from the spa to have lunch with Eric at Heron’s and I continued my day of luxury with the Market Menu and wine pairings…

Somerset Farm Vichyssoise (Carolina Hen and Arugula Pesto) with Four Graces Pinot Gris
Roasted Southport Snapper with Joseph Drouhin Chardonnay
Roasted Peaches (White Chocolate Rice Pudding and Burnt Almond Ice Cream) with La Yunta Late Harvest Torrontes

Everything was delicious and Eric very much enjoyed his grilled cheese sandwich and creamy tomato soup with a cheese crisp. A wonderfully indulgent and relaxing day.

Thanks, Eric! :*