Holiday Blessings

Happy Holidays and a Blessed New Year!

As we embark upon the end of the year a Frank Sinatra song comes to mind - "It Was A Very Good Year."

For me 2012 was a great year: 

• I semi-retired
• Refurbished Leo's Den in England
• Had published my latest book, The Happy Heretic 
• Had a great time with Spiritual Travelers in Southern India

Not a bad year.

I hope you had a good year. If not, let's proactively look forward to making 2013 most special and productive in every way.

Blessed means having a spiritual joy. It's good to be happy, amongst friends and loved ones, feeling safe and secure. And I wish this for you all in the coming year!

By the time you receive this I will be at Leo's Den in England. Surrounded by family and friends. And, naturally, enjoying the cheese!

Many blessings,

Rev. Leo Booth

A Traveling Man

Yes, I've just got back from Southern India and now I'm off to stay at Leo's Den, in Manchester, England. I'll get to visit my sister, my nieces and Joe, who visited me in Southern California a couple of months ago.

Travel helps me to understand the world in which I live. People are different...and yet the same. We all want to be loved, appreciated, supported and understood. Different perspectives enable me to have a broader concept of spirituality, what it means to live a life with divine dimensions.

Also, I'm grateful. I know I'm a lucky man. But this word luck must also include the work I've performed and created in my life. As Christine, the angel-in-training from The Angel and the Frog said to Cedric the frog, "You need to become your own angel." Instead of waiting for things to happen, make them happen.

I hope that many of you will be able to visit Leo's Den in the near future. Anytime of the year you will find something beautiful in England even in the Fall and Winter months which have their own special attraction; a chance to wear hats, scarfs, gloves and warm coats we rarely use in America. From the months of November through March, England is both crisp and fresh. Imagine yourself looking out drinking a hot cup of tea and seeing the autumn and beauty of the trees. You can both rest and play in a comfortable home, for a few weeks that you can call your own.

As a reminder, the winter rates to rent are $175.00 a night from November 1st - March 31st. And let's not forget, that includes the use of my the car.

I know you've thought about it; now make it happen.

Leo Booth

Friends at Leo's Den

 I know that many of you have watched the Olympics in London and enjoyed it. For me, the games were exciting to watch, not only for the US team but also for England! Yes, the spirit of the Olympics is about competition but in many ways it expands our respect for other cultures around the world and I see that the unity and friendship between the countries is evident.

Talking about different countries and cultures, in September a group will be joining me on my journey to Southern India.

Maybe you're asking, "I see that the trip is less than a month away but can I still come?"
"Can I join the group at this late date?"

Yes, but you need to call Shama at Rama Tours at 773.205.7900 and fix up the details.

I hear from my sister, who lives in Manchester, England that the weather is glorious at the moment. Maybe you would like to see England this Fall, well call Michael and arranage your dates. I will be visiting some time before Christmas; can't wait to order my English fish and chips. And the English lamb is very tasty.

Rev Leo


Here are some comments from people who have visited Leo's Den recently:

 Just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed our stay at Leo's Den. The weather was cool and rainy, but it didn't stop us. It was quiet and peaceful and yet so much fun to experience the English customs, food, shopping, sites and the car is lovely! I am glad we had the longer stay. Anything less would just not be enough. I would highly recommend it to anyone. - Maridale & Amy

 Leo's Den is beautiful, comfortable and well appointed. Leo did a great job with the remodel. Christine is a gem. (She doesn't really look like the Auntie type; she is very fashionable, gorgeous and young!) She was warm and welcoming! Our strategy of making Leo's Den our home base and adventuring out from there was all-in-all a good plan. - Donna & Geno, Richmond, VA

Spending time in the comfort and ease of Leo’s Den provided an opportunity for us to enjoy the quiet atmosphere of Manchester, to rest and rejuvenate, and to have a ‘home base’ from which to visit parts of England as well as to venture forth to Rome and Florence. We particularly appreciated Auntie Christine and the many friendly people we met in the neighborhood, on buses and at local pubs. Leo’s Den is a perfect place to spend time for anyone who needs to take a break from the hectic pace of everyday life. We are happy to have had this experience. - Reverend Judy and Reverend Glenda, Common Ground Spiritual Center

From 8/26/12 Newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter directly, click HERE.

For more details on Leo's Den, England, please click HERE.

Updated - Leo's Den

Leo’s Den -  Updated Information!

Many of you know that I have a comfortable home in England (Lancashire). With this in mind, I wish to make my house available to my friends. (But trust me when I say it is most comfortable).
About the House: This attractive detached house has three bedrooms, and will comfortably sleep up to five people, with a kitchen, dining room and two lounge areas; also two bathrooms and showers with a guest bathroom downstairs.  There is a garden at the back and front to just sit and relax.
Where is it? The house is located outside the city of Manchester, close to Yorkshire, Stratford on Avon (Shakespeare's home), the countryside where the T.V. series All Creatures Great and Small was filmed, The Lake District, Auckland Castle, Liverpool (birthplace of the Beatles) and close to Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters' home. Scotland is three hours drive and there is a direct railway connection between Manchester and London. Of course, for soccer fans you can see Manchester United play at Old Trafford.
Car Available: In order to see the beauty of England's countryside or visit Scotland, Ireland and Wales you need a car. This is what makes visiting England, with hotels and car rentals priced in "the English pound" so expensive. With this in mind, I've included the use of my personal Mercedes E Series (Automatic) in the daily rental.

Auntie Christine: I've arranged for Auntie Christine to be your point person during your stay. Christine will provide basic snacks at the house upon your arrival. Auntie Christine will arrange a mutually convenient time concerning orientation for driving in England. Also included, Christine will clean the house once a week. Anything you need for the house, she will try to accommodate and meet your every need.  She's a fantastic person.   You'll enjoy Auntie Christine.

Cost: April – Sept: It is simply $250.00 per night (including use of the car and domestic services provided by Auntie Christine). For those sharing the expense with family and friends Leo's Den is truly a great deal. Winter rates: $175.00 per night.

Driving/Transportation: Scotland is a 2 ½ hour drive from the house; Wales is little over an hour drive. The train station is located 2 miles away from the house, to take the train from Manchester to London is approximately 3 hours.

How do I make a reservation for Leo's Den?   Contact my office at 562.494.2900. Email: fatherleo@fatherleo.com    We have a master calendar and all your dates (if available) will be confirmed when payment is received.  Everything is as above, all you need to do is pay for the gasoline and food you require during your stay and then enjoy England at your own pace.

I want you to feel at home in my home and for those of you who are interested in AA recovery, I will provide a list of scheduled meetings. However, I do realize that not everyone is in recovery and so everyone is able to rent my house.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us.

Leo Booth

A Day with Shakespeare

Please note: The most up-to-date information can be found at: http://leobooth.blogspot.com/2012/06/updated-leos-den.html

Did you know that Shakespeare's house is only two hours away from the home I rent out in England? Yes, you can have a leisurely breakfast at Leo's Den, drive to Stratford-upon-Avon where Shakespeare lived, book a performance at the Globe Theatre, have dinner before the show in an English Pub or restaurant and be home again, snug in bed by midnight. Visit Anne Hathaway's cottage or the Holy Trinity Church, also nearby.

A day to remember.

The English Countryside

Please note: The most up-to-date information can be found at: http://leobooth.blogspot.com/2012/06/updated-leos-den.html

What I love about my visits home, to Leo's Den, is the countryside. In ten minutes you are in Yorkshire, or Derbyshire or heading towards Shakesphere country in Warwickshire. And each shire is differently beautiful. 

The pubs are social gatherings for great food, drink and fellowship. The characters and eccentrics that thrive in England really come alive in the country pubs and restaurants. It's like an on-going comedy show; I really miss the English humor.

The surronding cities are great...oh, but the countryside is superb.

If you like soccer, go to Old Tralford and see Manchester United play or Main Road and see Manchester City. Experience a soccer game; very different from watching a game played on T.V.

All the information you need is below.

Leo Booth

Leo’s Den

Many of you know that I have a comfortable home in England (Lancashire).  With this in mind, I wish to make my house available to my American friends. At the moment it is being completely re-decorated and it will be available for rent in May 2012.  (But trust me when I say it is most comfortable). 

About the House: This attractive detached house has three bedrooms, and will comfortably sleep up to five people, with a kitchen, dining room and two lounge areas; also two bathrooms and showers with a guest toilet downstairs.  There is a garden at the back and front to just sit and relax. 

Where is it? The house is located outside the city of Manchester, close to Yorkshire, Stratford on Avon (Shakespeare's home), the countryside where the T.V. series All Creatures Great and Small was filmed, The Lake District, Auckland Castle, Liverpool (birthplace of the Beatles) and close to Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters' home. Scotland is three hours drive and there is a direct railway connection between Manchester and London. Of course, for soccer fans you can see Manchester United play at Old Trafford. 

Car Available: In order to see the beauty of England's countryside or visit Scotland, Ireland and Wales you need a car. This is what makes visiting England, with hotels and car rentals priced in "the English pound" so expensive. With this in mind, I've included the use of my personal Mercedes (E Series) in the daily rental. For those sharing the expense with family and friends Leo's Den is truly a great deal. 

Auntie Christine: I've arranged for Auntie Christine to be the housekeeper and point person for your stay.  Anything you need for the house, she will try to accommodate and meet your every need.  She's a fantastic person. You'll enjoy Auntie Christine.

Cost: It is simply $250.00 per day (including use of the car and domestic services provided by Auntie Christine).  Basic snacks will be provided upon arrival at the house and I'll arrange for somebody to provide orientation for driving in England. 

Random Thoughts for Leo's Den: 

The Olympic Games:  Beginning in July, many of you know that England will be hosting the International Olympic Games in London.  Manchester is a rail trip (2 hours, 30 minutes) from London and visitors could stay at my home, visit London, then return to enjoy the beautiful countryside of Great Britain (ie England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland). For those who are interested in catching some of the events at the Olympics, this could be the ideal arrangement. 

Queen Elizabeth 60 Year Jubilee: Queen Elizabeth and some of the Royal Family will be visiting different parts of the country to celebrate her sixty years on the throne.  Why not join the crowds and experience the royal wave; perhaps see Charles and Camilla chatting to the local people or enjoying a beer in a local pub?   It's all happening this year. 

Have you thought about reserving dates over the holidays or in 2013?  Well, celebrating Christmas and New Year in England is fantastic; fireworks, Bangers and Mash, Christmas pudding and crackers! 

How do I make a reservation for my vacation at Leo's Den?   Contact my office at 562.494.2900. Email: 

fatherleo@fatherleo.com    We have a master calendar and all your dates (if available) will be confirmed when payment is received.  Everything is as above, all you need to do is pay for the gasoline and food you require during your stay and then enjoy England at your own pace or, if you are feeling adventurous, explore Europe; after all, Paris, France is not that far away! 

I want you to feel at home in my home and for those of you who are interested in AA recovery, I will provide a list of scheduled meetings. However, I do realize that not everyone is in recovery and so everyone is able to rent my house. 

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us. 

Leo Booth 

Leo's Den - Updated

Please note: The most up-to-date information can be found at: http://leobooth.blogspot.com/2012/06/updated-leos-den.html

There is updated information on Leo's Den from the last time I blogged about it in January. I'd love to have you stay there! Please read on for additional information and contact me with your questions. Also, if you've stayed at Leo's Den in the past, please send me your photos.

Leo’s Den

Many of you know that I have a comfortable home in England (Lancashire). With this in mind, I wish to make my house available to my American friends. At the moment it is being completely re-decorated and it will be available for rent in May 2012. (But trust me when I say it is most comfortable).

About the House: This attractive detached house has three bedrooms, and will comfortably sleep up to five people, with a kitchen, dining room and two lounge areas; also two bathrooms and showers with a guest toilet downstairs. There is a garden at the back and front to just sit and relax.

Where is it? The house is located outside the city of Manchester, close to Yorkshire, Stratford on Avon (Shakespeare's home), the countryside where the T.V. series All Creatures Great and Small was filmed, The Lake District, Auckland Castle, Liverpool (birthplace of the Beatles) and close to Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters' home. Scotland is three hours drive and there is a direct railway connection between Manchester and London. Of course, for soccer fans you can see Manchester United play at Old Trafford.

Perks:

Car Available
In order to see the beauty of England's countryside or visit Scotland, Ireland and Wales you need a car. This is what makes visiting England, with hotels and car rentals priced in "the English pound" so expensive. With this in mind, I've included the use of my personal Mercedes (E Series) in the daily rental. Also, a number of people have indicated that they don't feel comfortable driving "on the other side of the road" in England. Do't worry, we can provide a driver for a few hours at the beginning of your trip to help you navigate the roads. This truly makes Leo's Den a great deal.

Auntie Christine
I've arranged for Auntie Christine to be the housekeeper and point person for your stay. Anything you need for the house, she will try to accommodate and meet your every need. She's a fantastic person. You'll enjoy Auntie Christine.

The Olympic Games
Beginning in July, many of you know that England will be hosting the International Olympic Games in
London. Manchester is a rail trip (2 hours, 30 minutes) from London and visitors could stay at my home, visit London, then return to enjoy the beautiful countryside of Great Britain (ie England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland). For those who are interested in catching some of the events at the Olympics, this could be the ideal arrangement.

Queen Elizabeth 60 Year Jubilee
Queen Elizabeth and some of the Royal Family will be visiting different parts of the country to celebrate her sixty years on the throne. Why not join the crowds and experience the royal wave; perhaps see Charles and
Camilla chatting to the local people or enjoying a beer in a local pub? It's all happening this year. Have you thought about reserving dates over the holidays or in 2013? Well, celebrating Christmas and New Year in England is fantastic; fireworks, Bangers and Mash, Christmas pudding and crackers!

How do I make a reservation for my vacation at Leo's Den?
Contact my office at 562.494.2900. Email: fatherleo@fatherleo.com We have a master calendar and all your dates (if available) will be confirmed when payment is received. Everything is as above, all you need to do is pay for the gasoline and food you require during your stay and then enjoy England at your own pace or, if you are feeling adventurous, explore Europe; after all, Paris, France is not that far away!

What is the cost?
It is simply $250.00 per day (including use of the car and domestic services provided by Auntie Christine). Basic snacks will be provided upon arrival at the house and I'll arrange for somebody to provide orientation for driving in England.

I want you to feel at home in my home and for those of you who are interested in AA recovery, I will provide a list of scheduled meetings. However, I do realize that not everyone is in recovery and so everyone is able to rent my house.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us.
Leo Booth