asking people to say why they deserved a "staycation." The best comment would win a stay at and dinner at .
After adding up our judges' votes, there was a two-way tie. Please take a minute to read more about the two semi-finalists and help us select a lucky winner.
The choices are:
1- Marine Wife Ashley Gehringer who wants to surprise her husband.
Hi there,
My name is Ashley and my husband is Mark. We have a two year old son. I have been with my Marine for 4 years as of April 24th and we have yet to take our first "vacation". He is always working with a hectic schedule and we never seem to find the time or money to even have a "staycation". Unfortunately, we haven't even been on a honeymoon. I am a stay-at-home mom and have been the past 3 years due to our son. I have been constantly asking him about trying to make up for a honeymoon by having a small romantic "staycation". I can honestly say that we would enjoy the pool area and possibly a couples spa treatment. We would not only consider this a "late wedding gift" or anniversary gift but we would also consider it to be the best Mother's day treat as well. We have a 3lb chihuahua that would also joining us on this wonderful day. I feel that my husband deserves this way more than I do. I think even one night away from "home" would relieve a lot of stress off of all of us and be able to relax and have a good time. It is sad that we live in California and we do not get to enjoy it as much as we would like to due to money issues. We also both go to College. He is studying for Criminal Justice to become a Police Officer, while my disability of being deaf is not stopping me from becoming a CAD and Design Technology major. I think my Marine and son deserve to have a great time without the stress of finances.
2- Gwen Lauren Meitchik who would like to give the prize to Debralyn Day, a community volunteer who puts others before herself.
While I would LOVE to win a mini "Staycation"...there is a member of our community who could really benefit from having the opportunity to "refill her cup" by being treated to a special night away. She is truly an Angel in Carlsbad - established a non-profit to help those dealing with illness (physical and mental) with the challenges of daily living. She helps our local Seniors, local kids and families here, there and everywhere. She does all of these things quietly and with grace all while dealing with some of her own challenges at home. Despite having had a year filled with personal loss and difficulties, she continues to dedicate her time, money and energy to others. She is a local hero and this would be a wonderful gift to her from the town she calls home!
Who should win the staycation? Tell us in comments and vote once in the poll. Voting starts Monday May 7 and ends Thursday May 10 at 5 p.m.
