Life in Between

Southern Cuisine and Old-World Charm: Buttermilk Hill Restaurant - Sylacauga, Alabama

2017-03-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

When times get tough, there is always one show that makes me forget my troubles—Andy Griffith. There's something about life in Mayberry that's magical and unattainable in today's over-stimulated world. Everyone knew each other, people actually stopped to say hello, and there were few things finer than Aunt Bee's home cooking. Of course, Mayberry and its citizens were a work of fiction. But in the center of Alabama, I found the closest thing to it.

Buttermilk Hill Restaurant sits on a quiet tree-lined street in the small southern town of Sylacauga. Simplicity surrounds you as you make your way to the front door of the historic Victorian home. Built in 1904, the house holds on to its comfortable, upscale charm with pride. Visitors are greeted by an antique piano, winsome staircase, and vintage art—it's everything you could want in a genuine southern dining experience.

Our visit was a special one. My family of 15 was gathered together to celebrate Father's Day a week late. The owners of Buttermilk Hill opened up and served us as a private party. Yes, I was able to explore the grounds and enjoy my meal as if I was visiting Aunt Bee herself. Although, after sampling the cuisine, I think everyone's favorite TV homemaker is out of a job.

We were seated at two long tables, decorated with classy cutlery. Everything was elegantly placed and our host, Amy, was warm and welcoming as she took our drink orders. Looking around, I could tell the house had history. Stories seemed to seep through the walls—one after the other. I wondered who had lived in this house. What had happened here? Paintings adorned every wall and shelves of old knickknacks and trinkets lined the ceiling in the wine room nearby. It was true to what it was and fit together flawlessly.

Amy made her way to our table smiling, "Ok, today we have a choice of buttermilk chicken breast with goat cheese cream or pork tenderloin medallions with apple molasses glaze," she surveyed our party. "I just need to know who wants what." After taking our order, Amy quickly delivered our salads and bread.

As we sipped our coffee and munched on the first course, Amy told us a little more about Buttermilk Hill. "This is actually the home where Jim Nabors learned to play the piano," she said. It took a moment to click. Jim Nabors was famous for playing the role of Gomer Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show! "And if you like," she went on. "You can visit the house where he grew up next door."

It was time for the entrees. Ladies were served first—in a quintessential southern fashion—and it was a challenge to sit politely and wait for everyone. The chicken was unlike any chicken I'd had in the past. It was lighter, juicer and more flavorful. The breading was created from a concoction of spices that owner, Kara McClendon Bacchi, had brought in from her own spice business. Kara also owns Southern Spice Company, a local business that was founded in 2011 and provides everything from dry rubs to finishing salts and infused sugars. But the breading wasn't the only star of the show. The goat cheese cream was an excellent addition to balance flavors on the plate, and the mashed potatoes were creamy, buttery and downright delicious. Needless to say, it was southern cuisine the way it was supposed to be.

"I bet you guys didn't know this," said Amy as her voice got low. "But many people believe this place is actually haunted." I leaned in to hear more. "Kara told me that one time she heard someone calling out, 'help me'. But she couldn't find where it was coming from. Since then, there was a book published that talked about haunted places around the Talladega area, and Buttermilk Hill was one of them." Her eyes adjusted to narrow slits. "A man used to live here who had a drinking problem, and he would lock his daughter and wife in the closet. Nothing bad happened to them, just to be clear. They were both fine. But we still thought it was a strange coincidence."

"Any other strange happenings?" I asked fearfully.

"Well, I like to think it's just vibrations in the house," she said. "But on some mornings, I will come in and the silverware will be turned in different directions. I don't believe in ghosts, so I think something else must be moving them."

Amy went on to explain that blessings had been performed on the house to ward off any spirits. And outside on the beautiful porch, the ceiling had been painted Haint Blue—an old southern tradition that keeps evil spirits away.

I was right. This place was full of fascinating, and at times spooky, history that made the meal even more exciting. And we still had one course left. Bring on the desserts! Our meal was topped off with Devil's food baby cakes, whipped cream and strawberries. The cakes were rich and decadent, decorated with a fresh strawberry.

Our day of southern hospitality was coming to an end, but there was one stop left on our outing. After saying our thank you's and goodbye's to Amy and Kara, we all strolled next door to visit Jim Nabors' childhood home. Upon seeing it, only one word came to mind: Shazam! Gomer Pyle was a television icon that can't be replicated, only appreciated and greatly missed.

Many restaurants will tell you that they can provide an "authentic" southern experience, but fall short on delivery. Buttermilk Hill Restaurant will take you on a bona fide journey. You will not only taste the south, you will live it too. And you will live it at a time when life was more like Mayberry.

Buttermilk Hill
Restaurant and Bar
300 East Third Street
Sylacauga, AL 35150

Call (256) 207-1001
for Reservations

Ard Bia at Nimmos - The One Place You Must Eat in Galway

2017-01-05T14:37:00.000-08:00

After a unhurried drive from Dublin to the county Galway, we were looking forward to reservations at a restaurant that we had been eyeing for months. I had heard about Ard Bia at Nimmos from another travel blogger, and it was love at first sight.

There were four of us, and after mastering the art of driving a car on the wrong side of the road--on the wrong side of the car--we made it to Galway unscathed by the many winding roads and roundabouts that blanket the Emerald Isle. The trip had been nothing but enjoyable. After all, it's hard to be anything but elated when traveling the Irish countryside. Even the weather couldn't deter us from accepting the cheerful, friendly demeanor of the locals.

As the sky drizzled and umbrellas sprung up, the streets remained covered with pub-goers, tourists and the occasional street performer. The yeast from local bars wafted into the air as we made our way down the narrow cobblestone streets to our foodie destination.

Ard Bia at Nimmos is one of Galway's most iconic restaurants. As we toured the cluttered stores, killing time before our dinner, we were asked by several shopkeepers about our next meal. When we mentioned Ard Bia, their faces immediately lit up with approval. "Yes! You are in for a real treat," said the Irish stranger with a thick accent. "That's the place to be."

With even more encouragement than before, we arrived at our reservation a half hour early. The doors hadn't been opened, but we could hear the muffled clinks of pots and pans behind the windows of the restaurant. Less modern than many shops on the main strip, Ard Bia looked far more classical. The stone walls and brilliant red door were adorned with awards, as if to shout the excellence of the food to anyone who approached. We looked at our watches and decided that we had some time to complete a walk--the Long Walk.

As we proceeded down the famous path, I couldn't help but sing to myself.

"The Galway Girl"

Well, I took a stroll on the old long walk
Of a day -I-ay-I-ay
I met a little girl and we stopped to talk
Of a fine soft day -I-ay-I-ay
And I ask you, friend, what's a fella to do
'Cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue
And I knew right then I'd be takin' a whirl
'Round the Salthill Prom with a Galway girl...

The air smelled of fish, and the grass enveloping the water was sprinkled with couples holding hands and students from the local university strumming on their guitars. After a leisurely jaunt, we made our way back to the stone walls of Ard Bia.

The interior was nothing like the outside. Everything was warm and inviting--it was like visiting a sweet smelling bed and breakfast. The walls were white and dusted with antique trinkets like candle holders, old books and dusty bottles. Tables were set to perfection with delicate napkins, wine glasses, and silver cutlery. We were quickly seated and began selecting our meals for the evening.

Cauliflower risotto, cavolo nero, picada, Cais na Tire hard cheese

Morgan’s rib eye, lemon crushed potato, Galway greens, chimichurri

Pan roasted Atlantic hake, roast garlic + lovage gnocchi, chard, thyme butter and clams

Everything on the menu was incredible. Of course, we passed around our selections so everyone could sample the different flavors. The steak was juicy, the fish was fresh, and the risotto was creamy and satisfying. It was impossible to pick a favorite. The menu changes seasonally, so the selections are always made with the freshest ingredients Ireland has to offer. The Summer Menu was exceptional. Even the bread and butter that comes with the meal was delightful. The bread was warm, and the butter had herbs that gave a kick on the first bite. Ard Bia was living up to the hype.

They also offered an array of local wines and beers. Several of the boys on the trip went for The White Stag Irish IPA, which they said was very crisp and paired wonderfully with the meal. I was able to get a glass of white wine to go with mine.

If being voted the friendliest city in the world by Travel and Leisure isn't enough to bring you to Galway, the food, culture and many pubs are sure to do the trick.

Be sure to make reservations if you plan on eating at Ard Bia. They open for select times of the day, and serve different menus for lunch and dinner. The lunch menu also includes a few breakfast items. If you want a more extensive menu, visit for supper. It's a culinary experience that is a little more high-end (and slightly more expensive), but worth every Euro!

With bellies full, we did what anyone in Ireland would do...we headed straight to the pubs. And we spent the rest of the evening enjoying the sites and sounds of beautiful Galway.

One Week in Ireland: My Photo Album

2016-08-25T14:24:00.000-07:00

There are few places on earth more beautiful than the Emerald Isle. Two weeks ago, I was traipsing through the country discovering cathedrals, castles, breathtaking scenery and delicious Irish food. We managed to see many of the hotspots on our trip. If you're planning on going, here is what you can accomplish with a week in Ireland.

Day 1-2: Dublin

Day 3 - Cliffs of Moher/ Bishops Quarter Beach

Day 4 - Galway

Day 5 - Dingle

Day 6 - Carrick-a-Rede Island and Giant's Causeway

Day 7 - Wicklow County and Glendalough

Take a Pit Stop in Lynchburg, Tennessee

2016-07-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

July 13, 2016

In the small southern-central city of Lynchburg, Tennessee, you'll find unique shops, restaurants and attractions that can't be found anywhere else in the world. If you're taking a road trip through the south, this is one spot that should be on your list.

Known as the home of Jack Daniel's whiskey, Lynchburg markets its famous product as the only world-famous beverage from a city with one traffic light. Now that I've been there, I'd say that's a pretty accurate claim. But its size only adds to its charm. The downtown area is compact, but chock-full of antique stores, historic sites, Jack Daniel's souvenir shops, and more. An 18th-century court house is situated in the center, surrounded by old-fashioned stops like the Lynchburg Pharmacy, Moon Pie General Store and others.

I was there for the day with my family. The plan was to eat at Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House and Restaurant. But first, we had to explore the city.

Jack Daniel's Whiskey Distillery

Of course, most people travel to Lynchburg for one reason—the Jack Daniel's Whiskey Distillery. Our trip didn't include it. Many of the people in our group had already visited before. But, should you want to tour the distillery, you can tag along on one of the daily tours. Just keep in mind that on weekends the wait time to get in can vary. Tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The tour does include stairs and some portions take place outside. So if it's a particularly hot day, you might want to consider if you can handle the heat. For us, the day was simply too hot! Bags are not permitted on the tour, and you can only take pictures in certain areas.

Visitors can now take part in the "Flight of Jack Distillery Tour" that ends with a sampling of five Jack Daniel whiskeys: Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey, Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel.

Finally, remember that Lynchburg is a dry county, and has been dry since the time of prohibition. It's technically not legal to buy Jack Daniel's in the city where it's made. You can taste it, and buy commemorative bottles at the local stores. But the product itself can't be purchased in Moore County.

Moore County Jail Museum

This attraction was a working jail until 1990. Built in 1893, it offers an interesting look into the lives of small-town sheriffs back in the day. Andy Griffith, anyone? For $1, you can have a semi-guided tour of the building, and even walk into the cells where prisoners once stood.

What interested me the most was how the comfort of prisoners was entirely based on how the sheriff was feeling that day. Our tour guide said, "Depending on the prisoners' behavior, the sheriff might deliver their food on time, late or not at all. It really was up to him." It was clear that the prisoners and sheriffs got to know each other very well in the modest, homey jail.

The guide then explained to me that the sheriff's wife had the responsibility of feeding and tending to the prisoners. In the 1880's, it was common for women to have many children, so she was used to cooking for a lot of people. Asking her to cook for prisoners wasn't considered a big deal. She was also in charge of simple health care. It was much rarer back then for people to visit a hospital or call in a doctor. Many times, people took care of their own aliments.

I asked the guide if any famous criminals had spent time in the jail. "You can find Jesse James signature upstairs, but we have no idea whether or not it's authentic," she said.

"How many people can you fit in the cells?" I asked.

"The two cells that you will find upstairs used to have pull-out beds that have since been removed. Actually, they were able to fit 20 men upstairs, if needed."

We turned the corner and made our way up an old staircase that led to the main cells for male occupants. (Women had their own cells downstairs.) The paint was worn and the bars were rusty. It was hard to believe that the jail held prisoners only 30 years ago. The steps creaked as we entered into the well-worn room.

Just as I suspected, the cells looked very small. 20 men? How was this accomplished? My guess was that some people were sleeping standing up. But, comfort wasn't the main priority at Moore's Old County Jail.

To get inside the cells, you had to walk on a small platform with a toilet out in the open. Privacy obviously wasn't a concern either.

The remainder of the tour was mostly antiques that were left from the jail's past. Old radios, phones and books—it was actually really interesting. My favorite was an old tube radio, circa 1940. I could imagine the sounds of jazz and big band hits dancing out of its speakers.

The jail museum is definitely a stop you'll want to make on your visit to Lynchburg.

Moon Pie General Store

In 1917, the famous Moon Pie was a popular snack for coal workers to bring in their lunch pails. Today, the tradition lives on as a sweet, filling snack that's produced in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It's a southern staple. Pair with an RC Cola and you're in business. Downtown Lynchburg has its own Moon Pie monument in the form of an quaint general store.

You think you know everything about Moon Pies, but here you can find different varieties, sizes and flavors. There's even t-shirts, magnets—everything a true Moon Pie fan could desire.

Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House Restaurant

We heard the lunch bell ring and quickly walked back to the pristine, white boarding house. My stomach started to growl as we walked inside.

The boarding house has been open since 1908, and Miss Mary Bobo served patrons at her boarding house until she was just shy of 102 years old. It's a well-known establishment to the locals, and most months the boarding house has visitors from every state in the U.S. In June 2016, I heard they had guests from 41 states—a little less than normal, according to our host. With all of the incoming traffic, guests should call for reservations well before their visit, if possible.

The restaurant is still set up to treat guests like they are "boarders." In fact, just walking into the house feels like you are there to meet with your grandmother for a Sunday afternoon lunch. It isn't until you notice the large gift shop to the right that things seem out of place.

Speaking of the gift shop, it's a lovely room that has shelves full of fun trinkets and southern-themed steals. One of the most popular items, of course, is the Miss Mary Bobo official cookbook. The menu items that are served to guests still maintain her original recipes, making the eatery even more genuine.

When the bell is rung, guests are told to join a host and gather in an assigned boarding room. We had over 12 guests, so some of us were separated from the group into another room. This is something to consider if you plan on taking a large party for a meal. To add to the experience, each group gets its own host for the table. That's right—someone from the Mary Bobo staff sits at your table with you to tell you about the history behind the restaurant and fun facts about Miss Mary.

Our lunch was already on the table as we entered the room. The food is served by simply passing a plate to the left. The menu varies, but holds on to a few favorites that you are sure to get when you book a reservation. The menu for that day included:

Fried chicken
Green beans
Rolls
Potatoes
Macaroni and cheese
Shredded pork
Fried apples infused with "local product"

It was home-cooking at its finest. The apples with Jack Daniel's was especially delicious. But don't expect to feel healthy after an afternoon of eating with Miss Mary. I was informed that the fried apple recipe included 1 cup of butter and 4 cups of sugar. Trust me, it's worth the calories!

Just when we thought we couldn't eat anything else, servers went around the table and asked who wanted coffee with their dessert. Dessert?! Somehow, I had to manage it. It was a thick chocolate pie topped with whipped cream that had a little more of the local product dashed inside. There was even a small topper on the pie to celebrate Jack Daniel's 150th anniversary.

I highly recommend Miss Mary Bobo's not only for a great meal, but for its history and authenticity, as well. It's a unique experience that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Call ahead of time to make reservations and inquire about the menu.

295 Main St. Lynchburg, TN 37352
Reservations: (931) 759-7394

Lynchburg Winery

Did you know that in the dry county of Lynchburg there is now a place you can visit for local wine tastings? And yes, you can purchase it too! I wondered how all of this worked. Turns out, all Tennessee wineries are exempt from Dry County Statutes because of the Wine and Grape Law that was passed 40 years ago. The Lynchburg Winery is situated in the heart of the downtown square and has been in business since last year.

I knew I had to try some of the local wines before I left. The winery itself has one of the largest wine tasting rooms in the state, and the wine is pretty darn good. The tasting costs a little over $4 for five wines—not a bad price at all. Here are the ones I tried. (Descriptions provided by the Lynchburg Winery tasting menu.)

Pinot Grigio – A dry white wine with a fruity aroma and a crisp silky finish.
Merlot - Dry, with a bouquet of black cherry and currants. Medium-bodied with a hint of herbs.
Southern Tradition - We have a 100% Tennessee white and red Muscadine like grandpa made! 13.5% so it has a kick!
Serendipity - Our Signature Southern Wine! A very fragrant sweet white Muscadine with a fizz. Fragrant Traditional Muscadine. Best served chilled. Add a few frozen fruits into this party favorite.
Blackberry – This one was not on the menu. It had a rich blackberry aroma and was very sweet—almost juice like.

Out of all the wines, Serendipity was my favorite. But you can go by and sip the samples for yourself.

A Worthy Pit Stop

With a little over 6,000 people that make up its population, Lynchburg is a taste of the old south and southern hospitality. There are also a few accommodations nearby if you choose to make a day of it. From Moon Pies for the kids to sophisticated wine tastings, this Tennessee town is a fun, educational and tasty stop on your southern road trip.

What else do you like about Lynchburg?

5 Scams in Italy and How to Avoid Them

2016-07-08T12:24:00.000-07:00

As a Roman friend of mine once told me, "Italy has perfected the art of thievery. We are masters of it." While there are few places more enchanting to visit, it's also a country where you have to be careful.

A visit to Florence turned into a nightmare the day my friend's wallet was stolen at a gelateria in the Piazza della Signoria. Her credit card, driver's license and $800 was gone forever. We spent the rest of the afternoon canceling cards and wiping up tears. It was then I learned how important it is to prepare.

On your visit to Italy, you'll be sure to encounter one scam or another. Here are some ways to escape the most common ones.

Scam - The Rose Salesman

Most people have heard of this scam, but that doesn't stop it from happening. On the streets of larger Italian cities, you will see men and women walking around with baskets of roses or other flowers that they claim are free. You will usually be approached by these salesman if you are part of a couple, or dining outdoors. They will casually say, "Would you like a pretty rose? It's free." Once it's in your hands, the salesman will demand an unreasonable fee for the rose. If you refuse to pay, they will chase you down to take it back.

How to avoid it:

I watched this happen many times on the streets of Rome. Salesmen never have an issue finding someone to take the bait. Avoid eye contact with these street salesmen, and opt to buy flowers from local markets instead. (I'm not kidding. The second I made eye contact with them, they tried to give me a rose.)

If you are determined to impress your sweetheart on an Italian outing, beware buying anything that's not from a reputable store.

Scam - The Bracelet Maker

This one is very similar to the Rose Salesman. I was approached by a man who said he made jewelry when he lived in Africa. He was charming, nice—nothing about him screamed con artist. It was a beautiful bracelet, but I was skeptical when he handed everyone in my group the jewelry "for free." We didn't make it far before he ran toward us demanding money. Once we refused, he told us we all had to remove the bracelets.

In the photo above, you can see him walking with the bracelets dangling by his side.

How to avoid it:

Just remember that no one wants to give you something for free in Italy.

Scam - The Gypsy Child

There's nothing that will tug on your heartstrings more than a child in need. Many Italian pickpockets have figured this out, too. As I was walking through the streets of Pisa, a group of children began to pull on my shirt begging for money and food. I refused. But while I was distracted, the actual thief was beside me, trying to get into my bag. Luckily, my backpack was tied tight and everything was tucked deep inside a secure pocket. He didn't have enough time to steal my wallet.

How to avoid it:

You may think it looks silly, but wear your backpack on your front. After my friend had her wallet stolen, I watched my bag like a hawk. Having it situated in the front made me less of a target, because I was always holding on to my belongings.

Also, make sure you have a bag that is difficult to get into. My backpack was from Target, and it worked nicely. I kept all of my important items in a deep pocket zipped up on the inside, and the only way to gain entry was by undoing a tightly knotted string, digging to the bottom of the bag and unzipping a compartment.

When children approach you asking for money, remember that the real thief is probably somewhere near. Pay attention! The kids are a distraction.

Scam - The Tourist Photo Trap

Near many of the sights in Rome, locals will be dressed as Roman soldiers to attract tourists for photos. It's like the characters at Disney World, only these guys can aid in a crime. Visitors usually have their guard down when posing for a photo beside the Coliseum. When you aren't looking, you can easily have your things stolen.

How to avoid it:

If you insist on taking a photo with one of the men in costume, have another member of your group—who isn't distracted—watch your things. Someone should be focused on your belongings at all times.

Scam - The Helpful Train Passenger

Traveling by train is very popular in Italy. When I made my way from Florence to Rome, a train ride seemed like a fun trip. Navigating the train station in Florence was a bit tricky, because I wasn't sure where to get my ticket punched. Was it before I got on the train, or after?

Before I could figure it out, a local walked up to me and offered some advice. She said, "Let me take you to where you punch your ticket." I thought this was very kind of her. She escorted me to the nearest ticket punch machine, and even led me back to my seat. I said, "thank you." But that wasn't the end of it. Another woman approached me from behind.

"My sister helped you get your ticket punched, you need to pay her now." At first I refused, but she began to raise her voice and said she wasn't leaving until I paid her. In the end, I coughed up what small bit of change I was carrying. A smile returned to her face and she left.

How to avoid it:

If you plan on using public transportation, know how it works ahead of time. I made the mistake of not researching. Know how much money you will need and how the system operates. And if someone who isn't in an official uniform offers to assist you, don't accept their help. Find someone who works there to answer your questions.

Bonus: The Tossed Baby

I've never encountered this one, but I hear it's still happening. A person will walk up to you and toss a baby doll into your arms for no reason. As shock sets in, someone will go through your pockets and purses.

How to avoid it:

Again, wear your items in front. It won't make you invincible, but it will probably help. And if you see someone running to you with a baby in their arms, you can expect that it's a scam. Don't lose your focus.

What other scams have you encountered in Italy? Any advice on how to avoid it? Comment below.

How to Get the Best Photos of Rome - Advice from a Local

2016-07-05T20:50:00.002-07:00

July 6, 2016

It's all about the light.

Pietro, my charming Airbnb host, was scanning a map of Rome and giving me expert advice on how to experience the city "the right way."

"There is a certain way to see it," he smiled. "Roma—it changes with the light. Some places are better in the morning, while others you want to see at sunset. Your eyes will be opened to an entirely different city, depending on when you look at it. I can show you how to get the best photos."

I went on to tell him all of the places that I wanted to visit during my stay in The Eternal City. He would quickly interrupt me after every site I mentioned, divulging more insider info for gathering worthy photos. Carefully, I wrote copious notes in my journal and made plans to see Italy as I was told. He assured me that I would be able to capture the best photos by knowing how the light affects certain sights.

"So, St. Peter's Square in the morning and the Roman Forum at sunset?" I asked as I walked to the balcony to gaze at the basilica in the distance.

"Yes, that should be good," he gestured to the plate of hot pizza and supplì on the dining table. "Enjoy the food. I will leave you now to get your rest."

MORNING: Visit St. Peter's Basilica.

We rushed down the empty streets of Rome on a race with the sunrise to see St. Peter's Basilica. The city was still asleep, and we were one of the only groups headed to the square. Our running came to a halt as we stepped into the column-encircled Vatican City. Before us, a giant obelisk acted like a sundial, politely telling us that we were almost late. The line to get into the basilica had already started forming.

Below me, the ground began to change colors. We had reached the front of the line, only proceeded by a few loyal nuns who were attending Friday morning mass. The statues that lined the tall columns and walkways watched me as I inched closer to entrance. One by one, each saint's silhouette was framed by the golden morning sunlight until their faces became visible. We were able to get into the basilica before the crowds arrived. I wandered the grounds without any pushing and shoving to get a great picture.

Being in the nearly empty cathedral brought tears to my eyes. As I stood before the tomb of St. Peter, a haunting sound seeped from the ground below me. I could hear morning prayers being sung to Peter, praising him in all his glory. There was no one around me but the worn effigy of the saint himself. His foot was missing toes, which was the consequence of countless pilgrims touching and kissing it in hopes of blessings. It was an unscheduled and welcomed moment alone with God.

If you plan on going inside St. Peter's Basilica, do as Pietro told me. Wake up early for your own spectacular sunrise and unforgettable experience.

AFTERNOON: Explore the Pantheon.

The second spot on Pietro's list was the Pantheon, a famous temple located in Piazza della Rotonda. The Pantheon translates to mean "temple of every god," and has been in existence since around 126 AD. When the sun is high in the sky, it shines directly into the building's concrete dome—acting as a spotlight for the precious assets tucked inside.

The interior of the dome was meant to represent an arched vault to the heavens. The light inside moves around as a reverse sundial. In the middle of the day, the room was filled with natural lighting—great for photos.

This is one of the only sights in Rome that you don't need an advance ticket for. The line is always moving, and tourists can come and go as they please. As I moved closer to the center of the room, I noticed that the floor was slightly curved. Another visitor informed me that it acts as a natural drainage system when it rains. Around the edge of the Pantheon, Roman government and history was honored with carefully placed displays. It's all wonderfully lit for your photographing pleasure.

SUNSET: Wander the Roman Forum.

"The Forum looks its best at sunset." That's what Pietro had told me. What used to be a buzzing metropolis of Roman government and business has been reduced to beautiful ruins, and I was about to uncover its stories.

A place that once thrived with power and influence was nothing but a memory, and that struck a nerve for me. It had left a legacy—one that echoed with the far-off cries of Julius Cesar and Marc Antony. It was Roman life as it once was, and as it would never be again.

I could see why he suggested sunset, it was perfect for photography. Each layer of history—years, decades, centuries—was softly unveiled by the late afternoon light. Shadows were cast from one ruin to the next, revealing the sites depth and poetic desperation.

NIGHT: See St. Peter's Square or the Spanish Steps.

When a Roman day comes to an end, there are still plenty of places to see and explore. Pietro suggested a night walk through St. Peter's Square or the Spanish Steps. Both of these places are magnificent under a starry sky, and will allow you to take some artistic and inspired photos.

Because my Airbnb was closer to the square, I opted to visit it on my way back. It was still fairly busy with people at 10 p.m. The fountain was glowing from far away and the statues that watched over the cathedral each had their own light to guide weary travelers home. The warm light spilled from window to window on the cathedral, making it the perfect moment to capture.

Follow the light.

Next time you head to Rome, remember to harmonize your photos with the ever-changing light. Be present in the moment and take Pietro's advice: "Don't just look at Rome. You have to feel it."

Swedish Meatball Recipe with Try the World

2016-06-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

July 1, 2016

Remember the famous episode of Friends when Rachel tries to cook a trifle and accidentally puts beef in it? Sounds like a pretty horrible kitchen faux pas. But tried-and-true Joey inhales the "dessert" as the others watch in disgust. He takes a breath long enough to say, "I mean, what's not to like? Custard, good. Jam, good. Meat, good!" After sampling this recipe, you might find you have more in common with Joey than you thought.

I have to say, I was a little skeptical of putting cream sauce and jam on meatballs. But, oh, how wrong I was! Sweden has dominated the meatball market, as far as I'm concerned.

This month's Try the World subscription box delivered a symphony of Swedish goods that could be used in several recipes. I made sure to sample it all individually before combining them into a dish.

Double Chocolate Crisps by Gille - These cookies were delicious and light. The cookie itself was crispy and crumbly, while the chocolate filling wasn't overly sweet. It pairs very well with another item in the box—coffee!

Kharisma Coffee by Löfbergs - I brewed this the night I opened the box. To me, the coffee tasted fairly mild but still flavorful. I tried it with cream too. Perfect for Fika (Swedish coffee break)!

Lingonberry Preserves by Hafi - This was my first time sampling Lingonberry—I'm sold! This jam was very tasty and beat traditional strawberry jam with its hint of chipotle kick.

Original Flatbread Crisps by Mörsjö Deli - Thin and crispy, these tasty snacks were the vehicle I used to sample the Lingonberry and Honey Mustard sauces. It went well with both! They would also be tasty with hummus.

Rosehip Fudge by Nordic Fudge - Not your traditional fudge, these melt-in-your-mouth goodies have a buttery, almost caramel taste to them. The texture is not as creamy as caramel, however. You won't have to worry about these getting caught in your teeth.

Sweet Licorice by Lakritsfabriken - Admittedly, I don't like licorice. But I had to give this a try anyway. It wasn't as terrible as others I have sampled, but it's still not my favorite.

Elderflower Saft Syrup by Tillmans - This is the only item I haven't tried. I'm waiting on a good cocktail recipe to make use of the syrup.

Sweet and Hot Mustard by Liss Ellas - This was my favorite of the box! Wow! It was the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, and I found myself wanting to put it on everything. Sandwiches, crackers...but I had to leave enough for the meatball recipe.

The recipe called for three items in the box:

Original Flatbread Crisps - These can be substituted with Panko crispy bread crumbs.

Lingonberry Preserves - Lingonberry jam can be found in most grocery stores, but it can also be purchased on IKEA's website.

Sweet and Hot Mustard - Again, find your favorite sweet and spicy mustard at your local store.

INGREDIENTS

¼ cup Mörsjö Deli flatbread crisps, crumbled
4 Tbsp. heavy cream
2 Tbsp. Liss Ellas sweet and hot mustard
2 Tbsp. milk
1 egg
¼ tsp. allspice
¼ tsp. black pepper
¼ tsp. salt
1 lb. ground beef
1 lb. ground pork
4 Tbsp. butter
Boiled potatoes, for serving
Cream Sauce, for serving (recipe below)
One 3 oz. jar Hafi lingonberry jam, for serving

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine the flatbread crisp crumbs, heavy cream, mustard, milk, egg, allspice, black pepper, and salt. Let rest 10 minutes.

2. Add the ground beef and pork and mix well.

3. Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls (about the size of a ping pong ball) and distribute onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

4. Heat a heavy skillet over moderate heat. Add the butter. Once it sizzles, add the meatballs and sear until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Serve immediately with boiled potatoes, cream sauce, and lingonberry jam.

CREAM SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

1qt. beef stock
1qt. heavy cream
2 Tbsp. Hafi lingonberry jam
Salt
Pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot, bring the beef stock to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and allow to reduce by half. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce to a third. Add the lingonberry jam and reduce 15 minutes more, until thick.

2. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and season with salt and pepper.

Njuta av! (Enjoy!)

Pancakes the Size of Your Face: Peppermill Las Vegas

2016-06-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

June 24, 2016

Las Vegas. It's a city unlike any other destination in the world. Except for Macau, but you get the picture. Its vibe is unique, one that encourages visitors to leave reason behind and live life in the fast lane. I've traveled to Las Vegas a few times, and each trip I experience something new. A carnival for the eyes, the Las Vegas strip has enough neon, casinos and world-renowned restaurants to keep your senses busy for days. One of my favorite spots on the strip is a funky 24-hour diner and lounge called Peppermill.

I first heard about the mammoth-sized portions of food on Tripping Out with Alie and Georgia, a popular show on the Cooking Channel. In the episode, the duo spent an evening surrounded by Peppermill's kaleidoscopic walls and monstrous cuisine. From the moment I saw the pancakes on television, I knew it was love. I was ready to propose, and walk those pancakes down to a drive-thru chapel to get married by a man in an studded Elvis costume. But, I digress.

Peppermill serves up multitudes of creative cocktails, food and desserts. The menu is sure to have something that pleases everyone in the family. Best of all, you can get everything 24/7! Brightly colored lights, available at all hours, drinks—does it get anymore Vegas than that?

Fresh from working a full day at the Las Vegas Convention Center—we were there for a trade show—my coworker and I were exhausted and needed good food fast. It was then I remembered that we were only a short car ride away from Peppermill. So, off we went.

Peppermill has been the filming spot for many music videos, television shows, and has been praised by numerous magazines for being a "must-see" stop in Las Vegas. Inside its flashy, kicky walls, Sin City had never looked better.

I surveyed the room, wondering where they might seat us. Next to a window to look out on the strip? Around one of the fire pits in the middle of the room? We got a spot next to a tree—yes a tree—near the kitchen. It was the perfect spot for smelling all of the intoxicating cuisine.

It didn't take long for me to decide on the pancakes, obviously. My coworker settled on the Ruben sandwich, the other item ordered on Alie and Georiga's show. We anxiously waited for our plates to be delivered.

The waitress came out carrying our dishes like precious newborn babies. They were certainly big enough. And there they were—pancakes that could double as a delicious Serta mattress. Ok, so I'm romanticizing the situation. But if you were there you would have understood.

To say I was excited was an understatement. I had before me a mountain of carbs that needed to be devoured. The Ruben was also a winner. A tower of juicy meat, the sandwich was a formidable opponent for my coworker's appetite. In the end the sandwich won. There was just so much food—a perfect opportunity to take home leftovers for later.

This restaurant is an iconic member of the Las Vegas strip. Since December 1972, it remains a favorite for locals and tourists in Sin City. Yes, the pancakes were sinfully good. And being bad never felt so right.

Peppermill is perfect for any occasion. Come to drink, come to eat, or just come to soak in the authentic Vegas atmosphere. And as you eat your mouthwatering mound of carbolicious heaven, just remember—what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Calories don't count.

Follow Peppermill Las Vegas on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/PeppermillVegas/

Peppermill is also on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeppermillVegas

And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peppermillvegas

Happy eating!

Hiking North Carolina's Mt. Sterling, Smoky Mountains

2016-06-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

June 22, 2016

The clock on my unusually bright iPhone read 1:32 a.m. I tied my laces tightly—the hike was about to begin. From time to time, I retreat to a weekend hike to detox from the daily office grind. The earth-incensed air can heal better than any medicine. Starting a hike this late—or early—was not unfamiliar to me. Most of my weekend treks began around the witching hour.

The group huddled in a circle to glance at the map once more. Our guide scanned the hill before us, anticipating the hike to come—one he'd made many times before. "We have seven miles to hike before we reach camp tonight. Think everyone can handle it?" I nodded my head with muted confidence. Was I going to make it? We held hands, said a quick prayer for safety and began marching like soldiers into the dark.

About a mile in, our eyes finally adjusted to see the ground past our headlamps. A familiar sound, the sound of flowing water, was immediately to our right. A waterfall was illuminated with bright blue hues from the moonlight above, an eerie but beautiful sight. We stood still for a moment on a wooden bridge that overlooked the falls.

Miles went by with only darkness and shadows surrounding us. But at the end of a tree-lined tunnel, we saw the trail open into a field blanketed with wildflowers. I was in the back of the line; I was in no hurry to get there—even though I was battling exhaustion and in desperate need of sleep. The field went on for what seemed like forever, only to be punctuated by another long dirt path of narrow roads. Finally, we made it to the campsite.

We pitched our tents and hung our bags high in the trees to deter any bears that might want to join our five-person party. Cicadas and the nearby stream lulled us to sleep as we thought about the long hike that was planned for later that day.

Leaves were crunching outside my tent by 9 a.m. Our group's leader had already been up for awhile filtering water from a freezing cold stream to make his morning cup of coffee. He kindly handed me a metal cup with my own caffeine for the day.

A thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail, our leader rarely showed any signs of exhaustion. He always seemed ready to take on the next mountain—he was fearless. He told me that a bear had visited the campsite after we all went to sleep. "How did you get it to go away?" I asked.

He nonchalantly sipped his coffee, "I told him to get out of here. He listened."

On the trail he went by a different name—Jabez. In his unpublished memoir, "The Trail of Jabez", he writes about his time on the trail and what it meant to him. For Jabez, being in nature was one of the most satisfying ways to connect with God.

"For five months along the length of the Appalachian Trail, I had fellowship. It was quite wonderful fellowship actually, even when no other hikers were anywhere to be found. Now, it is not to say that I did not enjoy the company of other hikers. Nothing could be further from the truth. Actually, I was keen to hike with others...Assuredly, it was a fellowship that I had read about and that I thought I understood. No, this fellowship was with the One who created the wilderness—the Great Artisan. He is the painter who created the masterpiece where I now tread." - Trail of Jabez

Every time I enter a trail, I too search for that connection. In the depths of the forest, it seems that God's voice somehow reverberates, bringing us ever closer to the One we long for.

After finishing breakfast, we suited up and began our hike to the Mt. Sterling lookout. The plan was to reach the top by lunchtime. I already knew I'd be last in the group to reach the summit. Blazing down a hill is no challenge for me. It's walking up that nearly kills me. And Mt. Sterling was a steep uphill climb for several grueling miles. Expert sources describe the trail as, "a bit challenging" and "a steady climb." For someone who wasn't hiking every weekend, I wondered how I would fare on this rough uphill battle.

The first few miles were not terribly difficult. The road wasn't steep, and I didn't make the mistake of carrying my whole pack with me this time. I had invested in a day pack, and it was the best decision I'd ever made. Most of the hikers in my group went ahead—far ahead. And I was left behind to bring up the rear.

It was another mile or so when I discovered I was alone. I couldn't see any of the other hikers before me, and I knew no one was behind me. My back was sore. I perched on a flat rock at the edge of the trail. Below me was a steep drop, and my feet dangled over the edge as I pulled out my water bottle and trail mix.

Silence had never been this loud before. Other than my chewing, it was as if the whole mountain, including its animals, had been abducted. Being comfortable alone without being lonely is a learned art. Not all can master it. At times it had been a challenge for me, but not now. I felt empowered knowing I could make it to the summit in one piece, and I could do it on my own. I pressed on.

After a few more starts and stops I made it to a beautiful clearing. It was a nice stop to sit while my legs regained their strength. Jabez sat at the base of a wide tree waiting for me. "Rest," he said. "We aren't too far from the top." I immediately tossed my pack and plopped my head on a tree root. There was something bright on the bush next to me. Rejecting my thighs' argument to sit down, I walked over to see what it was. A massive black and blue butterfly was perched on a leaf, showing off its brilliance.

"Let's get going," Jabez gestured to the trial ahead. Everything in me wanted to stay there and not go on. But it was then that we began the steepest part of the journey to Mt. Sterling.

There was no end to the up. Surely, at some point, we would reach level ground. When we finally did I would speed to make up time for my turtle-like accent. I stepped on uneven rocks, slid from loose dirt and took a few much-needed breaks. It was a true test of my tenacity. Finally, a sign that said the top was only a half-mile away! Suddenly, my endurance improved.

Three of our group members had already been there for 45 minutes admiring the scenery and catching their breath. It took me a little longer, but I had made it. The fire tower loomed over me as I approached my last climb of the day. Carefully, I made each calculated step to the top.

The tower is said to have the highest elevation of any true fire tower left standing in the Eastern United States. Built in 1935, the views from its top will take your breath away. It's something even Bob Ross can't recreate. It was, as Jabez had called it, a masterpiece created by the Artisan.

After admiring the landscape and eating a light lunch, we began our decent back to camp. I may not have been the fastest going up, but I was smoking them going down. I thanked dear gravity for allowing me a reprieve after such a long, strenuous day.

As I walked on, I noticed the afternoon light dipping in and out of the forest canopy. A single sunspot gleamed through a break in the trees. Slowly I approached it, trying not to scare it away. Warmth caressed my skin as the light swallowed me whole. It was as if God had turned on a spotlight; he was saying hello.

It wasn't long before I stumbled to the barren fire pit near our tents. We all sat on the logs that encircled the fire at our camp. The boys, still full of energy, jumped in the nearby stream and swam until nightfall. The water was frigid, and I could only manage to dip my toes.

As I sat on the boulder in the center of stream, I began thinking about God's work in our lives. Outside the protective walls of the mountain our cell phone service would return, we'd get back into our routine and God, for some people, would be harder to hear. I knew I fell into that category. I began to speak to him.

"God," I said. "Please let me bring this feeling with me wherever I go. I want to feel your presence always."

He kept his promise.

5 Books to Awaken Your Inner Traveler

2016-06-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

June 17, 2016

Sometimes, my trips are few and far between. It's in those moments that I find another way to escape—reading. Reading anything and everything that can transport me to another city, country or continent. Uncovering the adventures of expert travelers around the world is what inspires me daily, and I'd love to hand that same passion over to you.

To be clear, the books I'm highlighting are ones that every travel writer/blogger has probably read at one time or another. They are popular for a reason! I have enjoyed combing through the pages of these books time and time again. They are sure to awaken your wanderlust.

1. Under the Tuscan Sun
Restoring an abandoned villa in the heart of Tuscany? Copious amounts of Italian food? Where do I sign up? Under the Tuscan Sun is the story of Frances Mayes, a well-known poet, cook and travel writer who highlights the beauty of simplicity and the importance of pursuing pleasure. If you really want to taste Italy—gnocchi, bruschetta, risotto—this is the book for you.

2. Wild
Like many others before me, this book inspired my love of hiking. But be warned, it's not for the faint of heart. Wild is the remarkable journey of Cheryl Strayed who makes a dangerous trek on the Pacific Crest Trail in the name of self discovery. When her life is finally too out of control to cope, one simple purchase inspires her to walk from California to the tip of Oregon with no prior wilderness experience. It's a wonderful read, and I'm still amazed at Cheryl's strength and tenacity. Just be prepared for some less-than-savory moments.

3. Eat, Pray, Love
This book has inspired so many people that on its 10-year anniversary publishers released a companion book called, Eat, Pray, Love Made Me Do It. It's a collection of essays from readers who were inspired to change their lives thanks to Elizabeth's memoir. Most people already know everything about this book. Elizabeth Gilbert, travel writer and free spirt, discovers that the life she's built for herself is nothing like the life she wants. After leaving her marriage, she spends a year living in Italy, India and Bali, learning how to rebuild and become herself. Elizabeth Gilbert is an amazing inspirational speaker. I encourage you all to not only read Eat, Pray, Love, but to also read her books Committed, The Signature of All Things and Big Magic. Her writing is uniquely beautiful. She connects with the reader instantly.

4. The Best American Travel Writing 2013—Elizabeth Gilbert, Editor
To be honest, I purchased this book because of the editor. (I'll buy anything with her name on it.) This book is a collection of the best travel writing from magazines, journals and websites in 2013. Other anthologies have been released, but this one has always been my favorite. Be sure to check out Daniel Tyx's story about not traveling. Or, A Prison, A Paradise that was originally printed in the New York Times Magazine. It's the tale of John Jeremiah Sullivan traveling to Cuba to visit his wife's family. Sounds pretty commonplace, but these writers can make any subject wildly entertaining.

5. A Walk in the Woods
A friend of mine who is a thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail was playing the audiobook of A Walk in the Woods on our way home from a weekend of hiking. As I sat in the backseat of the car on the long drive, I fell in love with it. Bill Bryson writes with colorful humor detailing his—what seems endless—hike on the AT. Out of shape and unprepared, his friend Katz comes along and hilarity ensues. It's a comedic look into the bumps and bruises that hikers experience on the trail.

10 Reasons To Visit Huntsville, Alabama

2016-06-14T20:13:00.002-07:00

June 14, 2016

Located in the northernmost area of Alabama, Huntsville is currently on the list of fastest-growing cities in the state. Every year, more people flock to "The Rocket City" to experience what it has to offer. After taking a good look at the town, it's clear that it's more than exquisite sweet tea; although, it definitely has that. Huntsville is constantly making strides to connect with its community, offer exciting cultural events and expand its list of fine dining.

Living in the city has given me a deeper understanding of what makes it special. I've been so busy writing about other places that I haven't gotten a chance to share my hometown. Here are my top picks for what makes Huntsville a wonderful travel destination.

1. You can travel to the moon—or Mars, if you like.
One of the most popular reasons people visit the city is the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. Opened in 1970, the museum brings space exploration and discovery to life with elaborate displays, artifacts, history and traveling exhibits. I've spent several afternoons there, and I always find something I've never seen before. The center hosts the popular Space Camp program where kids can see if they have what it takes to be an astronaut. This is one thing I'll always regret missing out on when I was younger. At 27 years old, I might look a little out of place now. But if they would let me in for a day, I wouldn't hesitate to put on a space suit.

(Update: There IS an Adult Space Camp! Visit http://www.spacecamp.com/space/adult for more info. #YouAreNeverTooOld)

Huntsville is driven by scientific innovation and discovery. The Space and Rocket Center is a perfect place to look to the past and gaze at the future of mankind's journey in space.

2. The restaurant scene just keeps getting better.
And now to one of my favorite parts of exploring a new destination: the food. I am very happy to report that Huntsville is kicking butt and taking names when it comes to delivering fresh, local, gotta-have-it-now cuisine. Best of all, the Rocket City keeps getting new and delicious restaurants as the city continues to grow in popularity. It's impossible to narrow it down to just one (or 10), so I will try to highlight just how diverse the culinary talents of this southern city really are.

New Orleans Lunchbox - Located at a Minit Man Marathon gas station on the corner of Holmes and Jordan, this cajun eatery serves up everything from red beans and rice to spicy jambalaya. It might be the only time you are begging for food from a gas station.

Grill 29 - Perhaps one of my favorite local places to eat, Grill 29 is located in the quaint Providence area of the city, and has some of the best shrimp I've ever eaten. But it's not limited to seafood. This place is a bit pricer than others, but it's worth every penny. They also have another location in Birmingham.

Cotton Row - If you believe the press about this place, and you should, you are in for a night of unforgettable dining. Located in the Downtown area, this restaurant was #1 on USA Today's Top-10 list for "Best Southern Fine Dining."

3. Downtown is always buzzing with fun events.
Do food truck rallies, nighttime concerts, community events, shopping and award-winning restaurants sound good to you? Downtown Huntsville, Inc. "is committed to creating a vibrant, diverse and economically sustainable Downtown Huntsville," and they have been very successful in doing just that. The food trucks alone are a reason to check it out. Shout out to Rollin' Lobstah! I could eat your savory, lobster rolls every day of the week. And Bigfoot's Little Donuts? I am sure they serve your sugary goodness in heaven.

Over the years, this area has grown into a bustling center for culture, business and entertainment. Be sure to visit downtownhuntsville.org to see what crowd-pleasing events are happening when you make your next trip to town.

4. There are numerous stunning hikes—and did I mention Monte Sano Mountain?
When I was a child, my family would pack up the car with picnic goodies and take a trip to Monte Sano Mountain. The spot holds a lot of my favorite memories. Monte Sano State Park is located on Nolen Avenue and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Campgrounds, cabins and an event lodge are available, but the best part is taking a walk through one of the many hiking trails. The views are marvelous and you can see the busy streets of Huntsville far below at one of its lookout points.

If you are the outdoorsy type, Huntsville has everything to keep your nature-loving self satisfied. Visit the Land Trust of North Alabama, Green Mountain Nature Trail or nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge for more.

5. Local artists take center stage.
When I first moved to town, I was amazed at how supportive the community is of local artists. One of the spots you will see creativity shine is Lowe Mill ARTS and Entertainment. Currently the largest privately owned arts facilities in the United States, the historic factory building is home to more than 200 artists that inspire, create and even teach classes to the community.

The building itself is a work of art. Visitors can walk about a maze of remarkable visuals before riding the 1899 Otis elevator to the next floor—one of my favorite parts of a visit. The halls are dripping with crafty ribbons, paint, tiles, handmade jewelry, scarves and more. The space has expanded over the years to open up to small local businesses like Suzy's Pops, a gourmet popsicle shop. It's also home to Southern Living's 2015 Food Award winner, Piper & Leaf Tea - Artisan Tea Co. Its Front Porch Special tea has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. It's a small family business that continues to create amazing teas, tisanes and even homemade pastries on special occasions. Trust me, if you are looking for the best southern tea, look no further! And I didn't even get a chance to describe how delectable the chocolates from Pizzelle's Confections taste after a blissful afternoon of admiring art.

Lowe Mill also hosts the Flying Monkey Arts Center, where people can do everything from swing dancing to poetry slams. And, if you visit on a Saturday, you can see the weekly Artist Market. All creative spirits should head over to Lowe Mill for a dose of inspiration.

6. The botanical gardens will give you some much-needed peace.
Spend a few hours, or even a whole day, exploring the grounds of Huntsville Botanical Gardens. Of course, this excursion is perfect for groups and families. But I have always made it a solo trip so I can zen-out, read a book or write in my journal. I promise the beauty of the surrounding fauna and colorful butterflies will inspire you. As you stroll through the winding gardens you will feel your stress slip away.

The garden also hosts numerous events throughout the year, group tours and offers educational opportunities for children and adults. This is one spot you don't want to miss. Go ahead, stop and smell the flowers.

7. You'll drink awesome coffee.
I discovered Grounded Coffee a few years ago through a friend from Boston. Yes, Boston! She traveled to Huntsville often, and I asked her where the best coffee was. She didn't hesitate to tell me Grounded.

Since then, I have become a regular. I go for the coffee, and I stay for the amazing customer service and appreciation of patrons. There's something special about walking into a mom-and-pop shop where everyone knows my name. And the coffee is just sublime. You can get it brewed in a variety of ways, and every cup is made with care and attention. And guess what? The word is getting out. More and more locals are becoming regulars because the brew is just that good! Be sure to order one of its specialties—a "Rocket City" (blend of coffee and espresso). It doesn't get more Huntsville than that!

Of course, there are other wonderful local shops where you can get your caffeine fix. Try Southbrew, Angel's Island, Cafe 153, Olde Towne Coffee Shoppe, Wild Bean Coffee and A Cup of Everything to get your day started the right way.

8. It has a rich history.
The Twickenham Historic District is where Huntsville showcases its historically significant structures, sites and neighborhoods. One look at the embellished houses on the shady, tree-lined streets and you will instantly be reminded of simpler times. It's also the site of The Weeden House Museum and Garden, Alabama's oldest house open to the public. Visitors can take guided tours through Twickenham to get up close and personal with the beauty and spirit of the area. Visit Alabama Travel for more information on booking a tour.

(Pro-tip: Alabama Travel is the state's official travel website, and will help you discover everything you need to know about Sweet Home Alabama. It's a wonderful resource.)

Don't forget to climb aboard the Huntsville Historic Train Depot. This iconic site represents Huntsville advances in transportation and city growth. It's part of the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, another thing you should check out while you're here. It's family friendly and lots of fun.

9. There are plenty of options for beer connoisseurs.
Stouts, pale ales, lagers—Huntsville has it all. The city is home to several local breweries and, let me tell you, it's good. Straight to Ale offers tours of its brewing facilities every Saturday at 2 p.m., and it's followed by a beer sampling in the tasting room. Another great spot to grab a pint is Yellowhammer Brewing. Yellowhammer shares a space with the ever-so-amazing Earth and Stone Pizza. Fresh-from-the-oven pizza and local craft beer on a Friday night? Sounds perfect. (Pro-tip: Ask for the pizza with sweet potatoes on it. Believe me on this one.)

Here's a directory of Huntsville's Breweries, courtesy of Our Valley Events.

10. Entertainment isn't hard to find.
The Von Braun Center is the city's mecca for broadway shows, major concerts, ballets, sporting events and much more. The facility is easy to reach and will surely offer something for the whole family to enjoy. Visit its official website, vonbrauncenter.com/, to purchase tickets for current featured events.

Have more to add to my Huntsville list? Join the discussion and comment below.

Wanderlust-Inspired Etsy Finds

2016-06-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

June 10, 2016

We all lie to ourselves. "I'm just going to LOOK on Etsy and see what I might buy...in the future." Yeah, right. A few minutes searching the website and it becomes impossible to not throw at least four items into your checkout cart. (I'm sure other people share the same addiction.)

Recently, I have started the personal project of decorating my office desk--somewhere I can sit down at home to read other travel blogs, write stories, and research future trips. Thanks to my latest birthday, I was able to score a beautiful push-pin travel map, desk globe, travel-themed stationary and Lonely Planet city guides. It's coming together nicely!

I wondered what else could I add to my space for inspiration. So, I spent some time on Etsy to discover some of the cutest wanderlust-inspired finds.

(All photos were taken from each shop's official Etsy page and do not belong to me.)

Etsy Shop: Lily & Val
Wanderlust Print

How adorable is this? Travel quotes are something that I always love to have nearby. This chalkboard print caught my eye with its beautiful blues and greens. The mountains hold a special place in my heart, and I wish I was on a hiking trip right now!

Etsy Shop: Charmed Traveler

Airplane Gold Lariat Necklace
This delicate gold necklace is quite possibly the cutest thing I've ever seen. You can also select different chain lengths! Subtle jewelry that shows off a love of travel is a must.

Etsy Shop: The Gentle Porcupine
Wanderlust Throw Pillow
Every office needs a comfy chair and decorative pillow. This stylish throw doubles as inspiration and a place to lay your head after a busy afternoon of brainstorming.

Esty Shop: Exaltation
Oh, Darling! Let's Be Adventurers - Coffee Mug
Writer's block calls for strong coffee and cute mugs. The vibrant colors are sure to perk you up!

Etsy Shop: Artwood Northwest
GPS Coordinates Hanging Sign
I have always been a fan of these coordinate signs. What a great way to remember your favorite place or trip. But, if it were me, I'd probably get the coordinates to my grandmother's house. Out of all the places in the world, that one will always hold the happiest memories.

Etsy Shop: Leveret Paperie
Camping Father's Day Card
This shop is by far my favorite. One of my best friends--and former roommate in NYC--created this beautiful Etsy store. She also designed the logo and graphics for my blog. To say she's wildly talented is an understatement. Father's Day is coming up! Why not get him this adorable card?

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What To Do On Your Layover In Dallas, Texas

2016-06-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

June 8, 2016

Quick Stats

Population: 1.3 million

Climate: Humid, hot, and often prone to storms. On average, there are 234 sunny days per year in Dallas, Texas. The July high is around 96 degrees. The January low is 35.

Getting around:

1. I rented a car and that made my trip much easier. There are plenty of shuttles from Dallas Fort-Worth airport to rental facilities. Just check with an airport representative to find your boarding location.
2. You can also utilize the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) for getting around the city.
3. There are Taxi services available throughout the city and from the airport. Just do your research and make sure you are using a reputable company.
4. Of course, you can always go with Uber.

Family-friendly Rating: 8 out of 10 (It's still a big city. Take the necessary precautions.)

Best time to visit: Sept. - Nov. (Tourist season has died down and the temperatures are more enjoyable.)

Where to go:

Years ago on a trip from California to New York, I landed in Dallas way behind schedule. The rain was pouring down and flights had been canceled for the night. The airline was kind enough to hook me up with a complimentary hotel stay at a place called "The Night Hotel" (sounds shady, I know). They also gave me a few food vouchers for the airport. Although I had hours to kill that could have been spent having fun, I stayed in a lonely hotel room without the luxury of my luggage to comfort me--I had checked it before the flight, so there was no way of retrieving it for my layover. It was a lesson learned. I was determine to make my second quick stop in Dallas more enjoyable.

I have become a pro at making the most of short trips. When the plane touches down I already know where my first meal will be coming from. For me, it's usually all about the food. On a recent 48-hour trip to Dallas, I gathered a few awesome tips for where to eat and what to do when time is short.

Richardson Food Truck Park

I had spent time in Texas before when I was in fifth grade--San Antonio, to be exact. My family spent a week eating Mexican food and walking up and down the Riverwalk. We remembered the Alamo and we left with some extra pounds on our waists. But, this was Dallas. Although I was familiar with the airport (almost all my trips to California connected here), I didn't know much about the city.

Luckily, a local gave us tips on where to eat. He suggested the nearby Richardson Food Truck Park. It was a fairly new establishment and I was sold when he said "chicken and waffles." OF COURSE I want chicken and waffles. What more is there to life? Nothing.

The day was overcast so we were afraid that the food trucks might not show up. But, lucky for us, there were three ready to serve us. One cooked up traditional Irish food, like Shepherd's Pie. The other was a BBQ truck. At the end of the line I saw it--a decorated truck with the words "Twisted Soulfood" tattooed on the side. I rushed to get in line and order.

The waffles were at the bottom of a mound of food. They were warm and buttery, and the chicken was thickly breaded and topped with sweet potato curls and powdered sugar. My mouth drooled all the way from the truck to the table.

If you are anything like me, you will want to try every sauce available. (I think that's the only way to truly get the experience.) Nate's 125th Cafe, the food truck that created this magical dish, provided a sauce bar! I could choose from an array of sweet, spicy, savory, and salty condiments. The special-made maple syrup and spicy ranch sauce earned a spot at my table. It was time to dig in.

This was my first experience with chicken and waffles. Since then I have tried a few more. Some have come close, but this is the only time I felt inspired to write about it. I'm not sure if it was the sweet potato curls, the powered sugar or the sauce that made it so memorable, but it earned a place in my heart. So far the best I have tasted. I also ordered the sweet potato grits as a side, but I probably wouldn't order those again. After you have had my aunt's cheese grits, everything else falls short.

Because this was a work-related trip, we didn't have much time to do anything else that day. But we saved a few hours on day two to see some historic memorials and eat at a local favorite.

JFK Memorial, The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza, and The Grassy Knoll

The sun was bright in Dallas after we had completed work for the day. We decided to spend our afternoon exploring the heart of the city. After finally finding a parking spot--not the easiest thing to do in Dallas--we hopped out of the car and headed toward the JFK Memorial.

The structure towered over tourists as they walked inside. In the center was a flat slab of marble that read, "John Fitzgerald Kennedy" with wilting flowers carefully, and thoughtfully, placed on top. As with most memorials, there was a somber cloud hovering throughout the enclosure. I could hear people telling the stories of "where they were when JFK was shot." Near the building was a memorial plaque that shared just how important JFK was to the American people.

After admiring the memorial, we made our way to the famous Grassy Knoll. On the road in front of us was a white "X" that marked the spot where the horrific event took place. Thousands of cars drove over it every day, never thinking that they were passing through a ghost that history had good reason to never forget. We were soon approached by a man selling newspapers--the very newspaper that was sold on the day JFK was assassinated.

The Old Red Museum

After taking a moment to acknowledge the gravity of where I was standing, I looked above my shoulder at Dealey Plaza. The man with the newspaper went on as I scanned the city horizon before me. One building stood out among them: The Old Red Museum.

Built in 1892, the museum was created to "inspire and educate visitors about the rich and varied cultural, economic, political and social history of the Dallas County Area." A number of historic and artistic exhibits were housed inside, along with ongoing events and programs for locals and tourists alike. The museum is open 9-5 daily, and the building alone is a sight to behold. If you are a history buff, this is one spot you can't miss on your tour of Dallas.

Coffee House Cafe

Famished from our afternoon of sightseeing, we searched the local reviews for the best coffee shop in town. Coffee House Cafe was our next stop.

Coffee House Cafe is perfect for the business traveler. Great coffee and tempting entrees are accompanied with a very functional booth design. Every table has access to outlets, so patrons can hook up their laptops and phones and work for hours without interruptions. It beats Starbucks by a long shot in quality, atmosphere and comfort.

I ordered a classic mocha to drink, along with their breakfast special--Crab Cake Eggs Benedict. Oh, it was delicious! The english muffin was toasted and topped with a bed of fresh crab. The eggs and hollandaise sauce dripped over the side of the dish into my crispy potatoes.

We were able to spend a couple of relaxing hours getting work done and preparing for our flight home.

In-N-Out Burger--Just Because
Before leaving the Lonestar State, I knew there was one very important thing that I had to do. In-N-Out Burger became a favorite of mine years ago when I first tried the animal-style french fries. Yes, I was pigging out on this trip, but it's Texas! Appetites are bigger there--as are most things. It was the perfect "snack" before heading out.

Layovers in Dallas can be a lot of fun! Just make sure you plan ahead, hit the highlight spots and grab some great food. You'll be a lot better off when flights are delayed.

Travel Guide: Blue Ridge, Georgia

2016-06-01T09:47:00.001-07:00

June 1, 2016

Quick Stats
Population: 1,264
Climate: On average, there are 204 sunny days per year in Blue Ridge, Georgia. The July high is around 85 degrees. The January low is 27.
Getting around: You will need a car.
Family Friendly Rating: 10 out of 10
Best time to visit: Any time of year. Just be weary that snow can severely impact travel.
Where to go:

Mercier Orchards
Chateau Meichtry
Downtown Blue Ridge
Fightingtown Tavern
Harvest on Main (need reservations)
L&L Beanery
The Sweet Shoppe of the South
Blue Ridge Zip Line and Canopy Tours (book in advance)
Swan Drive-In Movie Theatre

Sometimes, you just need to get away.

When I heard about a little town in Georgia that had cozy cabins, quiet walks through nature, orchards, wineries, and delicious food...I was sold. My friend and I immediately booked a cabin on Airbnb that rested atop Cherry Log Mountain. The log home had two bedrooms, an open kitchen, fireplace, screened-in porch, hot tub and more. We left on a Friday afternoon ready to enjoy a three-day Memorial Day weekend in the deep woods of north Georgia.

Driving in the dark was, of course, a challenge on the backroads of Alabama. Deer roamed everywhere, but we pressed on. When we finally made it to Cherry Log, the service on our phones faded away and we continued to drive into the dark up a long winding road. "We just passed Ghost Road," I said. "And this road's name is Journey's End. Couldn't they have named the roads something less sinister?" The only noise in the dark was the car crunching gravel as we neared a dead end. "The instructions say to turn right on Arrowhead Pass." A carved, faded plank of wood was nailed to the tree in front of us labeled Arrowhead Pass. We slowly turned and began driving downhill. "It's the sixth house on the left."

We found the cabin nestled on the edge of a hill. The lights were off, but a dim blue light was shining from the windows in the living room. As I creeped up the steps I heard a noise. "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to...cry if I want to..." Why was music playing inside? Who had turned on the TV? I looked at my friend who was shuffling behind me. "This is how horror movies begin." He just shook his head. Time to open the door.

The lock didn't require a key--it was code accessed. The door opened and we flipped on the lights. It was beautiful! All fear of being in unfamiliar territory passed away as we explored the cabin. The decorations were carefully placed. The couch was garnished with heavily embroidered bear pillows. From the moment you entered the screened-in porch you would find bear knickknacks, bear paintings, stuffed bears and bear paws. I was beginning to sense an adorable theme. The cabin was perfect--absolutely perfect!

With very little energy left, we melted into the couch and began reading the guestbook full of visitors who had stayed at the cabin before us. It was interesting to see where they came from. One couple came all the way from the Netherlands to experience Blue Ridge. Every guest suggested a few places we had to visit: Mercier Orchards, Chateau Meichtry Winery and Harvest on Main. This determined our plans for the next few days.

Day 1: Mercier Orchards and Downtown Blue Ridge

The warm light spilled into my bedroom. Birds scuttled outside my window trying to wake me up so I could greet the morning. I decided I didn't want to meet that particular morning, and went back to sleep. A few hours later, I sluggishly peeled myself out of bed and made my way into the kitchen. My trip companion was busy making chocolate chip pancakes from scratch. The smell escaped from the room onto the porch as I walked outside to soak in some nature. The sun was dancing from treetop to treetop. I finally felt like my stress was a world away.

We shoveled in the carb-loaded breakfast and washed it down with iced coffee. "I think we should explore the orchards today." He smiled, "sounds good."

The drive to Mercier Orchards was a short one. The parking lot was packed, but we managed to find a place close to the lake near the apple trees. Up a small hill sat the Mercier Orchards general store where everything from fresh fruit and veggies to crisp hard cider was sold.

We ambled about the general store to inspect its different selections--bakery, wine bar, produce, hot sauces, jams, toys, candy. There was enough to interest anyone of any age. The bar caught our eye and we headed over to ask Marilyn, the woman serving the hard cider, for a flight of four for only 6$. In the end, our selections included:

Blackberry Winter - Semi-sweet wine with that blackberry twang
Lone Tree - A sweet/tart cider made from end-of-season apples, with a crisp flavor
Old #3 - Mercier Orchards' original hard cider made from Goldrush apples
Pearody Hard Cider - Made from pears and back-sweetened with blackberry juice, light and sweet berry, with a hint of pear on the finish

The Blackberry Winter wine was my favorite. It was unlike any wine I had tasted before, so we ended up leaving with a bottle for later.

We escaped to the orchard and strolled through the apple trees, skipped rocks and enjoyed the sunshine. It was a perfect afternoon.

But, it was time to grab coffee. We headed to L&L Beanery in Downtown Blue Ridge to try the local brew. The L&L was converted from the town's first bank built in 1926--the old vault is still in place for visitors to walk inside. A small establishment, L&L serves everything on a standard coffee shop menu including lattes and small sandwiches; although, they stopped serving food at 2:30 p.m. on this particular day.

The rest of the downtown area was lovely. It was Memorial Day weekend and the town was having its annual Local Art Festival near the Historic Train Depot in the middle of the square. Even with all of the festivities going on, it still wasn't as crowded as some other tourist destinations in Georgia and Tennessee. It reminded me a lot of Gatlinburg, without the tourist hype. In the place of a Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum and Laser Tag Arcade were small boutiques, antique stores, quiet bookshops, homemade fudge, and rustic restaurants.

Men of every age sat outside the antique shops talking to each other about times gone by as their wives and girlfriends disappeared into the next dress store. The art of conversation took center stage on the narrow streets of Downtown Blue Ridge.

It seemed that every ten feet we saw another dog. Blue Ridge is very dog-friendly. A lot of the shops put out food and water, or even allowed them inside. So, if you are looking for a place to bring your dog, Blue Ridge is your answer.

After working up our appetite, we stumbled upon The Sweet Shoppe of the South. It was the winner of Season 6 on Cupcake Wars and offered a variety of cupcakes, cheesecakes, treats and--wait for it--cronuts. Now, I have been waiting for years to try a cronut. For years I heard that a cronut would change your life and make every other pastry look less appetizing. When I saw it on the menu there was no question. I was going to devour that cronut.

I am happy to report that the cronut was amazing. It had a thick, creamy center surrounded by a flaky--yet doughy--pastry shell, topped with white cream frosting and chocolate shavings. It was the last of its kind at the shop that day. They were nearly sold out. My recommendation? Visit The Sweet Shoppe early in the morning to stock up on your daily treats and to eat a cronut warm out of the oven. Or, warm it up a little bit before you eat it. It will make all the difference.

After eating our dessert first, as our adult selves were allowed to do, we ventured to Fightingtown Tavern nearby. It had a dive bar vibe and waiters wore shirts with bold lettering that said, "Your Liver is Evil--Punish It." The food was traditional American fare like burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, beans, and salads. But this actually turned out to be my favorite place we ate in Blue Ridge.

I ordered the grilled chicken sandwich with fried apples and goat cheese. It was delicious. My friend went for the Ruben sandwich with a side of one of their specialties--sweet chili beans. I highly recommend them. They had a smoky BBQ flavor with a kick of heat in the aftertaste. They also have flights of whiskey available for anyone interested. Some say it's the smoothest whiskey they have ever sampled. I liked this place so much that I was unable to get a picture before I dug in. I owe my aunt Richi, a food blogger, all the apologies in the world for not doing my job properly.

As day one came to a close, we made the short drive back to cabin and sat on the porch until nightfall. We rocked in our rocking chairs and listened as the birds stopped chirping and silence fell over the forest.

Day 2: Chateau Meichtry and Harvest on Main Restaurant

After a night of deep sleep, we made plans to drive to Chateau Meichtry. We had heard many things about this particular winery and we were hoping it lived up to its reputation.

Located on a family-owned farm, Chateau Meichtry is a spot where locals come to taste great wine, listen to live music, and enjoy the countryside. The first thing you will notice is the beautiful house on the property, the next is the rows and rows of grapes that are growing in the vineyard. Finally, you will make your way to the Tasting Room where everyone gathers around a bar to sample different wines. We ended up ordering a flight of five wines, and here is what we got (descriptions provided from Chateau's tasting menu):

Vidal Blanc - A dry white wine, has notes of fresh green apple and honeysuckle. You will find zesty citrus, including pineapple in the notes, and finish with a light oakey palate.
Golden Harvest - A sweet white Muscadine, light and fruity with notes of tropical fruits and a hazelnut finish.
Sunrise - A white Muscadine wine with hints of Georgia peaches in every glass.
Ole Blue - A dark, rich Muscadine wine, with more than a hint of blueberry.
Chardonnay - Barrel fermented in 100% new Hungarian oak for 9 months. Weekly stirring of the lees brings this complex chardonnay layers of Pineapple, Citrus and caramel.

After sampling them all, I decided on the Sunrise and my friend ordered a glass of Vidal Blanc. We prepared our plate of cheese and crackers to sit outside to enjoy the view. We slipped into relaxation as we watched the breeze create waves through the grassy fields at the old farm.

Time passed, and we realized we needed to make it to our next destination: Harvest on Main. We had tried to get in the day before, but this place is always packed. If you plan on going, be sure to make a reservation. We were placed on a wait list, and we got lucky. Harvest on Main looks like something out of Beauty and the Beast. I'm almost positive Gaston was their decorator. But, it fit quite nicely with the local flavor. We were seated at our reservation time and got a spot next to the fireplace in the main room.

There was a nice selection of food. The Pecan-crusted Bramlett Farms Trout with pecan sweet potatoes, citrus beurre blanc and lemon-arugula salad looked good to me. My trip companion chose the Seared Duck Breast with cinnamon, coriander, house-cured merguez sausage and red cabbage-bacon slaw. If I could go back in time, I would have ordered the duck. It was wonderful--probably the best duck I have eaten. If you visit Harvest on Main, I suggest you go with the duck. Also, the restaurant does provide a complimentary bread service before the meal, so don't feel obligated to order any appetizers.

We were full. So we packed up our leftovers and headed back to the final night in the cabin. On the way, we debated going to the local drive-in movie theatre, Swan Drive-in. But we were too tired to move. More than anything, I just wanted to enjoy my last few hours of stress-free living.

I stood alone on the porch and looked at the creek at the bottom of the hill. I tried to remember what was weighing on my mind before I came there, and I couldn't. There's something about being tucked away in a cabin, surrounded by trees that makes you forget your worries.

Visit http://www.blueridgemountains.com/ for more travel tips and advice.

Why Instagram Can Be Your Best Resource for Planning a Trip

2016-04-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

April 7, 2016

Planning for an upcoming trip can be a daunting task. I spent several days toiling over an itinerary that I just couldn't seem to get right. I have 9 days--that's all--to enjoy everything The Emerald Isle has to offer. But where do I even begin? Obviously, I purchased a Lonely Planet travel guide. Full of helpful tips and expert advice, my travel guide has been my constant companion for the past few weeks as I decide what to do with my short time in Ireland.

After discussing it with my trip companions, we decided on Dublin, Galway, and Wicklow National Park. It was a tough decision, because we wanted to see everything. But I decided to take my research a step further. I posted this photo to my Instagram with the message:

"Used this beautiful Sunday to plan my trip to Ireland this summer! Where would I be without #mylpguide?! Lost. That's where. I'm heading to Dublin, Galway, and Wicklow National Park. Any tips?"

To my surprise, Lonely Planet shared the photo on their own Instagram page; the advice started to flood in. I was able to get some wonderful tips from Irish locals and faraway wanderlusters from all over the globe. So, if you are heading to Ireland, here is the best advice that was passed on to me. Instagram can be your best friend when trying to find local restaurants and inspiring places to visit in a foreign country--especially when Lonely Planet helps out.

I got a lot of great advice from Lorraine Kearney. Originally from Galway, she knew everything from where to eat to what castles I should explore.

"The Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara holds banquet dinners," said Lorraine. "You should check it out! Galway is also a small city that you can walk the entire thing in a few hours. Your biggest problem will be how to fit in all that yummy food!"

She also informed me that I would be there in time for the Galway Races, an Irish horse-racing festival. "It's basically the Kentucky Derby, but it goes on for 7 days!" she said. "Don't forget about Anair and Moran's of the Weir. Moran's has some of the best oysters in the world. And Anair is amazing. You should also try to make it for the Galway Arts Festival in July. The costumes and performers are incredible!"

You can follow Lorraine for more Irish travel advice @littleshamrock13.

Seeing Ireland from the eyes of others who had already experienced its beauty helped me fill in every gap in my plans. Nine days in Ireland just isn't enough! Here's what some of you had to say when it comes to "Must-See Spots" in Ireland.

@sofia.in.wanderland: Go to St. Michan's on Church Street! I got there on Holy Friday and it was closed! And it would only reopen the following Tuesday. When I got there, it was closed for lunch. I had to get to the airport, so I never made it. I ended up at The Brazen Head because it was the only place opened up on Holy Friday. It's supposed to be the oldest pub in Ireland. Worth a look! Good food too!
@bronwen_okelly: If you have the time to try and get to Powerscourt Estate and Eniskerry in Wicklow, it's about 20 minutes out of Dublin, but it's gorgeous!
Elena Giulia used to live in Ireland and has a blog of her own. @elenagiuliav: Make sure to go to Dublin Gaols. Very interesting history!
@terribletwin: When in Dublin, hop on the Dart out to Dún Laoghaire for a walk on the pier and a whipped ice cream at Teddy's (there's even a queue at the hole-in-the-wall vendor when people are wearing hats and scarves!) In Galway, head to The Crane for Irish traditional music and Róisín Dubh for some fantastic live music from up-and-coming Irish bands!
@australian_girl90: Visit Trinity College, beautiful architecture. Its library and the Book of Kells Exhibition. And I also recommend the Joyce Tower in Sandycove just outside of Dublin. Take a bus to Dún Laoghaire and stroll along the boardwalk to Sandycove. Dublin's awesome! I loved studying there. And if you have time, go to the Wicklow Mountains and visit Glendalough, breathtaking!
@ruthmarieohagan: You should check out Galway and while you are there, take a day trip to the Aran Islands. Happy traveling!
@nehadwn: Go to Kilmainham Gaol, but make sure you book in advance because that place gets jam packed.
@simone_rosemarie: Come to Stoneybatter and walk from there to Phoenix Park. Gorgeous old-style houses and amazing views into the park.

You can read all of the great tips on Ireland by visiting the post on Lonely Planet's Instagram account. I heard about Brother Hubbard, Howth and Matt the Thresher... stew and Guinness...the list goes on and on!

The travel community is a helpful one, and I am thrilled to have so many experienced travelers share their stories with me.

Have more advice on what to see and do on The Emerald Isle? Comment below and let me know!

Try the World Subscription Box - Thailand - Jasberry Rice Pudding

2016-03-17T13:53:00.002-07:00

March 17, 2016

Last night, I attempted the unthinkable...I cooked. Something that is fairly foreign to me, cooking has long intimidated my less-than-capable hands. I will try a baked macaroni and cheese here, and a meatloaf there. But other than that, cooking scares me. That's why I was surprised how easy it has been for me since I purchased a subscription to Try the World.

Try the World is a subscription box service that delivers treats, snacks, and delectables from all over the globe directly to your doorstep. Each box has a theme and serves goodies from a featured country. For several months now, I have been trying the finest of food from Paris, Spain, and various other countries. The most recent subscription box was Thailand, and I made it a point to try at least one of the recipes inside. Up until now, the food has been so good that I have eaten it before I could make anything with it. And I'll be honest, the dried mango from this box lasted one day.

The Thailand Box came with an assortment of goodies that I was excited to try. Inside I found:

Spicy Thai Rice Crackers
Green Curry Paste
Chaidim Teas (the ginger-infused tea was wonderful)
Coconut Crispy Rolls
Dried Mango (not pictured because I ate it...oops)
Coconut Flower Syrup
Organic Tom Yum Soup Set
Jasberry Rice

I decided that Jasberry Rice Pudding would be a great place to start. The recipe was included in the box, and it seemed simple enough. I laid out all the ingredients and got started!

Jasberry rice is a fairly new creation--an organic black rice grown in Central Thailand. Served unprocessed, unlike white rice, Jasberry rice is packed with antioxidants and is said to prevent numerous conditions by boosting the body's immune functions. It's also full of vitamin B1 and fiber. Who wouldn't like a dessert that has all of those benefits?

It can also be used in a variety of dishes. Although I was using it as a dessert, you can skip this recipe and serve it as a nice side dish for chicken, fish, or pork.

Click here to see the recipe on Try the World's official website.

INGREDIENTS
⅔ cup Jasberry rice
½ tsp. salt
1 13.7 oz. can coconut milk, stirred
¼ cup brown sugar
Fruit (optional), for garnish

DIRECTIONS
1. Bring the rice, salt, and 3½ cups water to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat, and let simmer 35 minutes. Strain, then return the rice the pot. Stir in 1½ cups coconut milk and sugar and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce and let simmer, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes. Let cool. Transfer to 4 bowls, add the remaining coconut milk, and garnish with fruit.

As I stated before, I am no cook. But this recipe was very easy and it's almost impossible to mess up. My version may not look as pretty, but it turned out the way it was supposed to. Give me credit for trying!

The texture of the dish was very interesting, chewy and sweet. When paired with the blackberries and mango it really brought the flavors out. It would have been perfect with the dried mangos that came with the box, but I'm not kidding when I say those were the best dried mangos I've ever eaten.

All in all, this recipe is perfect for anyone who is not a cook and is looking for a fun way to jazz up dessert. Best of all, the dish is packed with health benefits, so it's guilt free!

If you want to travel the world from the comfort of your own kitchen, Try the World is the way to go! Click here to subscribe: https://www.trytheworld.com.

The Best Biscuit I've Ever Eaten Wasn't from the South: Denver Biscuit Company

2016-03-11T14:49:00.000-08:00

March 11, 2016

There comes a point when hunger reaches a level beyond comfort. My stomach gave a deep growl as I walked down the busy tree-lined street of an eclectic neighborhood in Denver. I clasped my arms around my empty gut as we turned a corner to see a beacon of hope. There it was--Denver Biscuit Company. For weeks I had been waiting in suspense for my business trip to Colorado, only because I had my heart set on this very restaurant.

First of all, let me explain my credentials for determining what makes a "winning biscuit." The South is in my blood. Born and raised in a--very--small town in Alabama, I have had my fair share of biscuits. We eat biscuits with everything! Breakfast, lunch, dinner...we find a way to include them somewhere. Surely a meal isn't complete without a flaky, buttery biscuit to top it off. And so here I was, being driven by my southern roots into the closest establishment that would feed me "the food of my people."

Denver Biscuit Company came to the city of Denver out of a great need--a need for gourmet biscuits. Drew Shader, the man who brought these wonderful creations to the city, opened the Denver Biscuit Bus and Denver Biscuit Company with the help of his wife Ashleigh and Executive Chef Jonathan Larsen. While the Denver Biscuit Bus food truck was being built, they opened up Denver Biscuit Company in the back of Drew's existing bar, The Atomic Cowboy. Now featured on The Food Network; Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives; CNN and more, the restaurant has come a long way. You can read more about their story on the official website, http://www.denbisco.com/.

The aroma of freshly baked biscuits cloaked the surrounding streets. Inside, patrons were gathered around a bar in the center of the room, casually chatting about business, football and other pleasantries. The host seated us immediately and we sat down to experience the "mile-high biscuits" that everyone was raving about.

The waitress pointed at the opposite side of the room. "See that display over there?" she said. "Coffee is all-you-can-drink. Just pick up a cup and drink as much as you want." I glanced at the shelves to find a crowd of coffee mugs waiting to be used. For only $3, I could drink caffeine to my heart's content. Vintage and modern board games lined the top shelf for anyone who wished to stay occupied while waiting on their biscuit sandwich. I quickly poured my cup and headed back to the table for a difficult decision. Which biscuit would I get?

I looked above me to the wall for inspiration. The Cordon Bleu sounds amazing...but, what about The Ellsworth? The choice took some time, but I ultimately decided on the DBC Club (minus bacon). A mammoth culinary creation, the DBC was a tower of fried chicken, cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato and--wait for it--chipotle ranch. This sounded like something that I couldn't live without. So I went for it. With every ounce of excitement I sang my order to the waitress. But I added more. "I'd like an order of your sweet potato fries too!" This was no time to count calories.

As the biscuit made its way to my table, I watched as others in the room admired its beauty. "Enjoy," said the waitress. I only had one problem: How do I eat it?

Before me sat a monument to all things delicious. It was like playing the most satisfying game of Jenga in the world. If I made one wrong move, it would tumble and I would have to reassemble its contents. To truly experience the sandwich you need all flavors present, right? And so I began. I clamped my fingers around each side of the mighty sandwich and took my first bite. Hot, flaky, savory, tender, cheesy, buttery, spicy--there were so many things happening at once that I didn't notice the ranch dripping down the sides of my fingers. It was succulent; it was messy. It was perfect.

The rest of the table was filled with other items that anyone would be crazy to pass up. My sweet potato fries were delectable, and my trip companion ordered the Biscuit French Toast. Incredible as it sounds, the Biscuit French Toast is a marriage of freshly baked biscuit bread with homemade french toast. May these two never separate, because it was the way french toast was always supposed to be. It was sticky, syrupy, sweet and everything you could want from french toast. Denver Biscuit Company was doing its job.

Throughout the meal there was little talking about anything other than the food. It was quickly determined that Denver Biscuit Company was the new standard for homemade biscuits.

I didn't finish my biscuit in one sitting--it was too much. But later that night in my hotel room I sat by the light of the television and shamelessly ate every last forkful of the biscuit and sweet potato fries. It was a hard goodbye as I reached the last bite.

So let it be known that this southerner found her favorite place for biscuits, and it was no where near home. Denver Biscuit Company, I congratulate you.

Bugging Out at Audubon Insectarium in New Orleans

2016-03-07T18:54:00.002-08:00

March 7, 2016

"It tastes just like a Rice Krispies treat!" said the man in the chef's hat. He handed me a tiny, misshapen chocolate. "Eat it!" he said again with enthusiasm. And so I stood there, staring at my hand and wondering if it would make a move and place the candy-coated grub in my mouth.

Audubon Insectarium in New Orleans is an experience that differs from your run-of-the-mill art museums and aquariums; it offers a chance to get involved with the exhibits. In fact, you can get up close and personal with the bugs on display...really close. Located on Canal Street, the Insectarium was a necessary stop during my time in The Big Easy. Built after Hurricane Katrina, the museum attracts locals and tourists alike. I had come to complete a mission. After watching Samantha Brown successfully eat a plate of worms, larvae, and crickets on her TV show, I was determined that I could do the same. Sometimes, I wonder about my life choices...

"Go on, eat it," he urged. I looked over at my cousin who had already shoved three different kinds of bugs on her tongue without flinching. Who was this woman and how are we related, I thought?

"It's not bad," my cousin assured me. "Tastes a little crunchy, but not bad at all." Whatever. We can't all be carbon copies of Andrew Zimmern. But I was determined to do this. Thank goodness it was just a grub and nothing like the other insects in the exhibit.

Our tour of the Insectarium spanned millions of years, from the fossilized remains of prehistoric bugs to the modern-day cricket. We watched a praying mantis stalk its pray, dung beetles rolling dung, diver beetles swimming and hissing cockroaches hiss. We even watched as the ant exhibit broadcasted a live web cam to Animal Planet. I learned more about bugs than I ever thought possible.

In the far corner of the first room, there was an older man sitting at a table with three clear boxes punched with air holes. He was drawing a crowd so, naturally, I inched closer to see what the fuss was about. In front of me I saw a giant millipede, a scorpion, and a tarantula. I thought I had walked into an episode of Fear Factor.

"This is Penelope," he called me over and gestured toward the hairy spider who, as I interpreted it, wanted to eat me alive. But he grinned and picked her up without a problem. "Penelope is a 14-year-old rose-haired tarantula," he explained. "See how her back glistens pink when I shine the light on her?" Sure enough, old Penelope shimmered as she crawled on the back of his hand.

"Want to see something else?" he asked. I nodded, mesmerized that someone was so nonchalant about handling these creatures. He picked up the scorpion like it was his grandkid's baseball--no big deal. "He could break my skin if I put my fingers near his pinchers," he said. "But here is the neat thing about scorpions. They all glow fluorescent under black lights." He pulled out a black light and shined it on his reflective back. "No one knows why, really. They can't figure out how they have evolved this way." It remained a mystery for me, because my eye was being drawn to the next exhibit. It was an underground exploration of what the world would look like if you were a bug.

Inside the dark hallway I found numerous giant bugs--human-sized bugs. Kids were crawling on worms the size of a small car, and it was as if I'd been transported into Honey I Shrunk the Kids. Suddenly, I heard my cousin scream. In the darkest section the room there is a surprise waiting for everyone. I won't ruin it here. You have to go see for yourself.

We moved on because there was much more to see on the tour. Of course my favorite part was coming up--the Butterfly Garden. First of all, I have never met friendlier butterflies. Several of them floated in front of my face before one landed on my shoulder. We had a special moment before the museum staff made me say goodbye. I have been to butterfly gardens before, but this one has the most variety of any I'd been to. Small yellow ones, giant iridescent blue ones, brown and red--it was a rainbow of sociable butterflies ready to go home with me. Sadly, the staff made sure that didn't happen. It's ok though, I'm sure he's much happier there.

Perhaps one of the more terrifying moments was my encounter with a Brown Recluse spider. Only separated by a clear plastic box, the Brown Recluse looked me up and down as the museum volunteer explained the unspeakable things the miniature devil could do to me if given the chance. Nothing that small should have that much power. "Don't worry," she smiled. "They usually only attack if they are provoked." This is a chance I will never be willing to take.

I instinctively flinched as she held up the box and showed it to the crowd. All I could think about was how fast I'd run if she dropped it. Luckily, that never happened.

As the tour came to a close we had one thing left to do. I had to eat from the array of buggy confections at the Bug Appetit station. There was no turning back now.

I slowly shoved the grub in my mouth, immediately pushing it to the back of my teeth to prevent it from touching my tongue. I chewed. I managed to keep it down. "There's more," the chef exclaimed as he handed me a chocolate chip cricket cookie. A little more confident this time, I went for it. To my surprise, you couldn't even taste the dead cricket lodged in the perfectly good dessert.

Finally, it was time to move on to the sauces. The chef had lined up a buffet-style sauce bar with crackers. And what was on the menu? Mealworm salsa. I decided that seeing a fully intact worm sitting on my cracker was the most disgusting thing yet. I hesitated, but I completed what I came to do.

Not to be outdone, my cousin approached the chef for more. "What else do you have?" she said. He moved swiftly to our table with a smirk on his face.

"Did you know that the FDA allows a certain amount of bug parts in all of our food?" he pointed up to a screen on the wall. "Check out those facts," he said. "You are eating bugs every single day. A leg here, an antenna there, but you don't even know it." Suddenly, food seemed a little less appealing. I quickly rationalized this new information. Protein, I thought. Just extra protein.

The chef pulled out a final morsel and handed it to my cousin. "What is it?" she examined the unusual treat in her hand. "Just eat it!" he urged. (The last thing you want to hear when you are about to eat something new.) She went for it, and her face melted into disgust.

"It's a Queen Weaver Ant from Thailand!" he cried with excitement. He looked at me and smiled. "Would you like one?" I looked over at my cousin who was picking ant legs from her teeth.

"No." I gazed at the stamp on my arm that read, "I ATE A BUG!"

For that day, three bugs was enough for me.

Sips, Sandwiches, and Shops - Take a Quick Trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan

2016-02-29T12:32:00.001-08:00

February 29, 2016

The grass felt cool under my bare legs as I tossed my pack to the side and stared up at the August sky. After a 17 mile hike I was ravenous, feeling every deep growl of my stomach as the minutes passed. It was then I let my mind fast forward to my upcoming trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan. But, I was far away from civilization. I had trekked all the way to the top of Swallow Fork Trail in the Smokey Mountains, and all I wanted was a chicken sandwich.

As I pulled out my half-eaten bag of trail mix, two men who looked to be in their early twenties ambled toward me. "Where you headed?" said the tall one. It's not unlikely for people to become chatty on the trails, so I responded and offered some of my snacks.

"I'm going back to my camp after this. We are staying at the bottom of the mountain near the stream," I said as I stuffed my face with M&Ms. "Where are you from?"

"Ann Arbor. We spent all our vacation money to come and hike the Smokies." He took out his water bottle and began to guzzle.

"Get out! Ann Arbor? I am headed there in a few weeks," I exclaimed as I searched for my phone. Under the influence of extreme hunger, I had only one more question to ask. "Where should I eat when I go?" They both looked at each other and grinned in agreement.

"Zingerman's," they sang in unison.

And that is what led me here...

Mid-Morning: Head over to the Kerrytown District for a Zingerman's Deli sandwich.

If I could marry any sandwich, it would be one from Zingerman's Deli in Downtown Ann Arbor. Located in the Kerrytown District, it's been serving up patrons for almost 30 years--making artisan sandwiches, breads, pastries and other delights. What started as a deli has grown into an empire, spreading across the culinary map in the form of a coffee shop, bakehouse, roadhouse dinner cafe, candy, creamery, catering services and more. It's impossible to step foot in Ann Arbor without being exposed to the magic of Zingerman's.

The deli itself beckons you inside with the smell of fresh baked bread, aged cheeses and warm deli meat. The walls are lined with a breadth of Zingerman-inspired cooking ingredients and food. Hundreds of pastas and spices are up for grabs as you make your way back to the counter to order your (giant) sandwich.

Unable to shake my southern roots, I immediately ordered the "Abra's Nutty Yard Bird," A chicken-salad symphony of a sandwich, the Yard Bird included chunks of hand-cut Amish chicken, mayo, onion, celery and locally grown organic sunflower sprouts on lightly toasted pecan raisin bread. And just for fun, I added a traditional Jewish treat--Baked Potato Knish. My trip companion decided on the Zingerman's Reuben. It was a delicious tower of corned beef, Switzerland Swiss cheese, Brinery sauerkraut & Russian dressing on grilled, hand-sliced Jewish rye bread.

The previous day, I took a trip to Zingerman's Coffee Roasters and was incredibly surprised by what I found. There were so many choices and methods to choose from. Coffee addicts could create custom drinks from beans around the world, and add an extra touch of personalization by experimenting with different brewing methods. I spoke with one of the baristas about the story behind the brew.

"It all started with our deli," she said. "Our founders were working at restaurants in the area and said, 'We can do better than this.' And that's exactly what they did." She continued as she handed me my Ethiopian coffee.

"Now there are 15 different businesses under the Zingerman's name. We are all together, but we are all separate entities. The coffee company started in 2003, and this particular site has been here since 2009. Like parents, the original owners still watch over what we do. We have a business model that many want to emulate--it's a way of life. We are rivaling the university for who gets talked about more. Of course they are still winning, but we are not far behind."

We were even lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the roasting facility. Check out a quick clip here: Zigerman's Coffee Roasters - Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Afternoon: Explore the city.
After enjoying our meal, we decided to explore downtown. I was amazed at the influence local artists had on the landscape. The streets were framed by giant murals, something that made every street corner bright and, at times, thought provoking. Some covered entire buildings with colorful depictions of life in Ann Arbor.

I felt inspired, I wanted to know more about the city as it introduced itself to me. I knew where I wanted to visit next. One of my favorite parts of discovering a new city is looking for used bookstores. Years ago, when I was living in New York City, I would stalk the Upper East Side hoping to find new, undiscovered shops. I think what I really wanted was to wake up in the movie, "You've Got Mail". That never happened, but I was able to find many hidden book nooks that were nothing short of magical. In Ann Arbor, I was surprised by how easy it was to find a bibliophile's paradise.

The Dawn Treader Book Shop on Liberty Street is the perfect spot for collectors of rare books. The shop has been in operation for more than 22 years and offers around 70,000 titles to choose from---including everything from fantasy to the history of Iceland. It's all there at Dawn Treader.

I noticed that people in the store were abandoning their search and dashing to the front of the store. The owner was reading one of his favorite stories and acting out each character with great enthusiasm. It was hard to resist listening as his voice resonated through the paperbacks, and he began selling the tale like a traveling snake oil salesman. We all believed it. We all wanted to hear more. It was easy to tell he was passionate about the store and had spent many hours rifling through the pages of distant classics to engage his audience and make the shop come to life.

If combing through bookshelves isn't your style, there is always something new to uncover on every street. I passed many interesting shops, but one that stood out--that's definitely worth a look--was the Liberty Street Robot Supply and Repair Shop. The best thing about this shop is that it gives back. In fact, all proceeds go directly to free student programs offered at 826michigan, a tutoring and writing center.

The shop was covered in gadgets and gizmos (the Little Mermaid would love it here...bad joke, sorry) and the staff was incredibly friendly. I had a long conversation about Doctor Who, but we were never able to come to an agreement on who the best Doctor was. I still say David Tennant. But, I digress...

Everything from apparel to toys and games is up for grabs in the quirky store, and it all helps out a great cause.

I looked at my watch and noticed how many hours had passed; I was starting to get hungry. On every trip, I try to visit at least one restaurant that's unique to the area. I had already found Zingerman's. Now it was time for something completely different.

Evening: Order a burger the "right way" at Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger.
I had heard about a burger joint near the University of Michigan campus that sounded like great place to sit down and enjoy a greasy dinner in a college town.

Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger is famous and frequented by University of Michigan students during all hours of the day. One of its many appeals is that the staff WILL NOT let you order unless you follow a very specific protocol. They ask you a series of questions and you MUST answer in the correct order:

How many patties do you want?
What kind of bun do you want?
What grilled items do you want? (onion, pepper, mushroom, etc.)
Cheese and condiment choices WILL COME LATER.

It's very important that Blimpy customers remember the proper way to order. It's posted on the wall before you step up to the plate, but I won't lie and say I was completely confident. No one wants to look like an idiot when ordering a burger in front of seasoned professionals. College kids in line ahead of me had no problem spouting off the order and getting their burger fast. I may have needed a little help. In the end, I had the burger and my stress melted away into globs of cheesy goodness.

After Dark: Check out the University of Michigan Campus.
The University of Michigan campus is just as beautiful at night. And, if you are anything like me, you will immediately think you are walking through the pages of Harry Potter. Praised by College Ranker as one of the Top 50 College Wedding Venues, the campus comprises some of the most ornate buildings in the country.

We spent the evening searching the steps of libraries and grand halls. As the sun set and lights shined from each window, students packed up their blankets on the quad and headed back to their dorms. It was a wonderful evening to be in Ann Arbor.

Make a Wish at The Well-A Nashville Coffeehouse

2016-02-26T07:38:00.005-08:00

An explorer at heart, I am no stranger to driving around a town that I barely know in search of interesting restaurants, book stores and coffee shops. On a rainy afternoon in Nashville, Tennessee, I was feeling the urge for coffee when I spotted an adorable, rustic looking sign. I had to check it out!

The Well Coffeehouse, in the Green Hills area of Nashville, gives patrons a chance to enjoy coffee for a cause. As a nonprofit missional coffeehouse, The Well makes money to give it away. Its vision is to end poverty for people in Ethiopia, Uganda, Romania and many more areas in need. By simply purchasing a cup of coffee, customers help people find the food and clean water they need to survive. The Well informed me that nearly 6,000 people die every day from water-borne illness. The coffeehouse partnered with The Living Water Project and Blood: Water Mission to combat this problem. Additionally, The Well has several retail items for purchase -- some that support an end to human trafficking. The Well had already set itself apart from other coffee spots. I was eager to be a small part of such a great mission.

I knew immediately that this was a place you come and stay for awhile. (Although, they have a drive thru for convenience.) Locals come and enjoy their coffee surrounded by an atmosphere of exposed brick, chalk-board walls and wooden barrels. Everything draws the patrons to the mission behind The Well.

One of my favorite parts of the coffee shop was the book nook. In the corner of the room, customers can leisurely sip their drinks while enjoying a variety of books. Some are for sale and others live in the shop. Before I settled down to read, I had to decide what to eat.

If my aunt knows anything about me, it's that I am very picky about my salads. I usually go to restaurants and ask for substitutions and minor changes that would drive any chef crazy. Yes, I am that person! I decided to be adventurous and order the salad exactly as they prepare it. No substitutions! Let me just say, I was very pleased.

The first thing I noticed was that they used spinach instead of lettuce, which is just how I like it. All of the ingredients were very fresh and the raspberry vinaigrette had just the right thickness. With sunflower seeds, croutons and feta cheese sprinkled on top, the salad was a perfect compliment to my TryptoFANTASTIC.

What's a TryptoFANTASTIC? It's a turkey, provolone, tomato and spinach artesian sandwich with a delightful bruschetta spread. The menu offers several different bread choices, but I went along with good old fashioned wheat. The sandwich was lightly toasted and the tomatoes were especially juicy. Yummy! But, lets not forget the reason that I came. I needed my coffee fix.

The Mocha "Freeze" was an absolute delight. As a coffee connoisseur, I have had my fair share of frozen coffee treats. I am always disappointed when my frozen drinks taste more like sugary syrup rather than coffee. The Well didn't have that problem. The drink was a perfect blend of freshly brewed coffee, mocha and milk. The drink was not overpowering, and it still gave me the kick I needed.

As if wonderful coffee, tasty artesian sandwiches and a book nook wasn't enough, The Well had one more surprise. It's called The Wishing Well.

In an attempt to bring the community together and give hope to those in need, The Well designated a wall for all those looking to give or receive a helping hand. I took the time to read some of the wishes, and I was touched by many of the stories. Suddenly, the perfect strangers who posted these amazing wishes seemed like old friends. Some people didn't bother to ask for anything but instead gave thanks for their families, homes and faith. It was a remarkable sight. I even knew which wishes had been granted, because The Well proudly stamps "COMPLETED" on every one that has come true.

The Well is more than a coffeehouse, it is a place of hope. For anyone wishing to learn more about The Well and its mission, you can watch the link below.

"Love. Coffee. The perfect blend every time." - The Well

My No-Calorie-Left-Behind Weekend in New Orleans

2016-02-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

February 24, 2016

Every time I order a meal, I immediately think of where it will end up--on my hips. More often than not, I am plagued by the thought of how many calories are in every single bite of food I am taking. It's exhausting. But one day, as I sadly stared over yet another fruit smoothie and salad, I said to myself, "That's it! I'm going to eat whatever I want for an entire weekend."

Forty-eight hours of never saying no to extra cheese, sauce, or added sugar? Sign me up! And I knew just the place to go--New Orleans, Louisiana. My aunt and cousin agreed it was a brilliant idea, and decided to join me on this weekend of guilt-free eating. (FYI - My aunt has an awesome food blog that you should probably check out: www.threefriendsandafork.com/)

So, where did we eat on our food tour? There are some places in New Orleans you just can't miss.

Cafe du Monde

Face it. You can't take a trip to New Orleans and pass up the deliciously messy beignets from the infamous Cafe du Monde. It's a "must-see" for anyone who plans on a visit. The second they brought out the warm plates of powdered sugar goodness and coffee with chicory, I had to remind myself that it was okay to eat as much as I wanted. This was about enjoying myself. I had no plans for gorging or overdoing it, but I ate until I was pleasantly full. After all, we had reservations somewhere else at 2 p.m.!

If you plan on hitting up this well-known cafe, remember that lines are ALWAYS long. It usually moves fast so don't be discouraged. Street musicians make the wait enjoyable by playing traditional New Orleans jazz music as you move closer and closer to those sweet beignets.

For warmer days, Cafe du Monde serves up Frozen Café au Lait. Try it! You won't regret it.

Commander's Palace

If I could write songs about Commander's Palace, I would. After a short ride on the St.Charles streetcar, we ambled down tree-lined streets where the old New Orleans came to life. Curiously situated across the street from Layfayette Cemetery, Commander's is where you want to go for everything refined in the city.

There are few things I love more than trying new dishes. Quail was on the menu and, I have to say, was one of the top five best meals I have ever eaten--that includes my dinners in Tuscany. So, that's high praise.

The tables are neatly set, waiters sharply dressed, and drinks carefully poured to ensure every patron gets the full experience of feeling like royalty. Between the three of us, we tasted a number of dishes:

Turtle Soup
Tomato Bisque
Gumbo
Strawberry Salad
Coffee-lacquered Stuffed Quail (stuffed with boudin) and Spaghetti Squash
Chicken Cassoulet
Fried Oyster Crostini
and for dessert...Creme Brûlée

If you plan on Commander's Palace, be sure to budget for it. The food is a little more expensive, but you won't be sorry that you splurged. The staff was very helpful, my glass was always full, and the food was beyond words. I have a hard time blogging about it because it was THAT good. Just know that no matter what you order, you can't go wrong.

Bonus! The kitchen is open to the public. So, if Chef Tory McPhail is in be sure to stop by and say hello.

(If you want to see all the amazing food photos, follow Life in Between on Instagram.)

Satsuma Cafe

We ventured way out of the French Quarter to visit Satsuma Cafe. After a two and a half mile hike we were sure we would never arrive. But it was well worth the trip. Be advised, this isn't a tourist restaurant; when we arrived it was mostly locals--college kids studying for exams over morning coffee and moms with strollers trying to get their green juice for the day.

Did I mention that it's healthy? That's right, Satsuma serves up fresh, organic and locally grown ingredients. The atmosphere matched the cuisine--it was almost as if you were dining in your eccentric aunt's attic. Even the bathroom was adorable.

The menu was very diverse and I had to choose between breakfast and lunch--who can do that? It was too tough. So we decided that two of us would order lunch while the other ordered pancakes. My aunt ended up with a Salmon Melt Sandwich and salad. To die for. My cousin's cinnamon pecan pancakes and bacon, egg and cheese biscuit were awesome, too. So, order up and plan to relax awhile. It's a nice spot to collect your thoughts away from the busy French Quarter.

I went with something a little more generic just to see how Satsuma might make it better--and boy, did they! I ordered the Turkey Pesto Aioli sandwich with red peppers, mayo and cheese on ciabatta. Just look at that beauty. I also have to comment on the coffee; it was the best coffee I had during my time in New Orleans. I didn't get a chance to ask them who their roaster was, so if you know please comment. The iced mocha was perfect.

The Original French Market Restaurant and Bar

One of the more frequented stops by tourists, The French Market Restaurant is usually packed with families who are visiting the city. We chose the restaurant because of it's menu; we were looking for a place that had Shrimp and Grits AND a Fried Oyster Po-Boy on the menu.

We opted for an appetizer to start: Shrimp and Crab Dip. It was good, but the food really shined with the Cajun BBQ Shrimp and Grits. The grits were cheesy and the shrimp was grilled in a mild BBQ sauce. Very tasty. If you are a shrimp and grits fan--or even if you aren't--this would be a good place to grab some.

Mother's Restaurant

Mother's claims to have the "World's Best Baked Ham", so how can you not put that to the test? This one was actually close to our hotel and we visited it around 10 p.m. at night. Great for a late night snack, right?

The restaurant is more of a dive, but don't let that fool you into thinking you won't get quality food and service. Mother's can make a mean roast beef po-boy!

I also want to give a quick shout out to their social media team. You guys are hilarious. Within minutes of posting on Instagram you guys had a witty comment ready. So, hats off to you!

The sandwich was piled high with warm roast beef, and the bread served as the perfect sponge for flavor. It was an incredible po-boy. Another star of the show was the potato salad. My aunt ordered it for herself, but I am pretty sure she only got a few bites in because I devoured the rest of it.

I WILL be back to order some gumbo and bread pudding.

Restaurant Stanley

Ask me where to go for breakfast in New Orleans, and I will tell you Stanley. On a typical weekend prepare for a long wait. It's a popular spot in the French Quarter and I overheard some people say they had been waiting for over an hour. Again, I wouldn't post it here unless I thought the wait was worth it. They even have a service bar for everyone on the wait list to enjoy coffee, soft drinks, or cocktails.

If you are into sweet breakfasts, you can't go wrong with their Bananas Foster French Toast with Ice Cream. Yes, you read that right. Ice cream for breakfast! The gooey toast was full of flavor and when it was mixed with the ice cream and bananas...angels sang. Commence drooling now.

If you like something more savory, you could always go for the Fried Oyster Eggs Benedict (or, as they call it, the Eggs Stanley). Some people don't like to mix seafood with breakfast, but I was all over that. At this point I was at peace with the fact that my jeans wouldn't fit when I got home.

This post doesn't even include all the snack stops and drink stops along the way. But if you plan on enjoying your own cheat weekend (and I mean CHEAT) there are few places more perfect than New Orleans.

Feeling the Opposite of Dismal by Day

2016-01-12T13:58:00.001-08:00

January 12, 2016

"We are going in circles," my cousin Ayla exclaimed. "This is part of the test. We aren't ready for the actual hike, so they are making sure we never find the entrance." There we were at Dismals Canyon in Phil Campbell, Alabama...and we couldn't even find where the trail began. After months of sitting behind a desk, my adventurous cousin and I decided to spend a weekend studying the glowworms that gave the canyons their misleading name.

"I think it's this way," I gestured to a path that we had already covered. We walked in a circle for the fourth time, until we decided to walk back to the welcoming cabin and start again. "What does the map say?" I asked.

Ayla flipped the map in several directions until folding it back into her pocket. "It says we're lost."

The welcome cabin functioned as an outdoor supply store and a diner. The walls were covered with t-shirts, hats and intricate wind chimes. The staff at Dismals was warm and inviting. It felt more like visiting a favorite uncle's home, and it smelled like a homemade meal. Finally, we were pointed in the right direction and began our descent into the damp walls of the canyon.

As you reach the bottom of the wooden stairs leading to the trail, there is an immediate photo opportunity on top of a moss covered rock. The waterfall frames the bottom of the canyon and we immediately knew where we were on the map - Rainbow Falls. We had a choice of starting the trail to our left or to our right. After some "trouble" walking across the swinging bridge (because we were acting like 10 year olds and galloping across it), we decided to head in the direction of the Grotto.

As we walked further into the canyon the sun began to give way to numerous shadows from tree branches, resulting in a Jackson Pollock painting on the forest floor. We decided to forgo the intended path and walk our own way. This landed us in the Dancing Hall...well, almost. First we had to complete an impromptu obstacle course. We had to carefully jump across a wide creek.

We reached a section of the creek with tall, cement stepping stones. No doubt these stones had once been set up quite flat and orderly, but over time they had gone a bit wonky, to the point where some were turned nearly sideways and when you jumped to them you had to balance on the very edge. The very last stone was the wonkiest, as luck would have it, so we had to balance quite precariously while preparing to leap across a rather significant gap and land on a tangle of exposed tree roots that protruded from the other bank. We took turns going across them, feeling very adventurous and daring despite the fact that the worst that would have happened had we fallen was that our socks would have gotten soggy. Though that is no small thing when one is hiking!

We reached the Weeping Bluff, which is a section of the trail with an overhanging rock formation that dripped a light but steady stream of water down it. At first this just seemed like another opportunity for silliness as we paused on a bridge to play in the water for a moment. But then after crossing the bridge, we found this one spot where the sunlight was shining directly on this little stream of water pouring down from the cliff above us. The rock face was green and mossy and the mist of water was refracting the light into a vibrant rainbow. The scene was absolutely stunning. We had to share the moment with a passing photographer, and we exchanged "oooo's" and "ahhh's" before we parted ways to continue on our trip.

The rest of our day hike was scattered, exciting and magical. Scattered, because we kept getting lost. Exciting, because we decided to take the "Fat Man's Misery" challenge. (By that I mean we did what you are not supposed to do. We took off our backpacks and squeezed between the two massive rocks just to see if we could succeed. Climbing back down was much scarier, because you had to leap into a crack in the canyon on faith alone.) And magical, because the canyon is truly beautiful. The best part was how empty the place was. I was amazed that there were not more people out enjoying Dismals on such a nice day in May.

We passed so many wonderful things. Perhaps our favorite was a narrow walkway with the most beautiful light shining through (pictured at the bottom). When we stood between the towering walls, things got quiet. All we could hear was the sound of the birds and the breeze several feet above us. Ayla described it well, "I feel like this is the entryway to some magical fantasy land or something. I just love the feeling of walking through this narrow, leaf-strewn path with the walls of the canyon looming over me on either side. And it's green and cool and damp and earthy, and walking through it felt like going back in time."

In the end, we decided to not only enjoy Rainbow Falls from the front, but to actually climb behind it. This was not an item offered on the map, but when you decide to go your own way you run into these opportunities. The cave was dark and it was impossible to continue walking forward because a giant slanted boulder was in our way. I carefully slithered up the wet, slippery rock to get closer and closer to the falls. I prayed for the grips on the bottom of my shoes to be as awesome as the sales guy at the Mountain Outfitters store said they were. After much scooting and uncomfortable crawling (to which my cousin referred to me as Gollum), we were able to reach the inside of the falls. It was even better than the outside. It was relaxing, cool and it was the perfect spot to rest before we headed back to the welcome station to get ready for our night hike. That is when the glowworms (or Dismals) would finally appear.

Matthew 7:14 - But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

10 Reasons You Should Enjoy Taking Your Grandparents to Disney World

2016-01-12T13:12:00.001-08:00

January 12, 2016

I know what you're thinking: Disney World is a place for kids. In fact, the only reason you'd go there is to take a kid who can stand in line and get their picture taken with Goofy (I'm 25 and this is still my favorite part, by the way). Yes, bringing a child along is tons of fun! Seeing their eyes light up as their favorite characters come to life is nothing short of a blessing.

But, that is not what this post is about. For me, the best time I had at Disney World was when I took along my grandparents. Still not following? I would like to explain why (for me) the best people to take to Disney World are your grandparents. (Results may vary depending on your grandparents. Mine are pretty darn amazing.)

Reason #1: The car ride there is absolutely hilarious.

Instead of flying to Orlando, we decided to squeeze in the car and drive the whole way there. As the driver of this trip, I can say it came with challenges. My grandfather was always worried about the gas. (Do we have enough? Where is the next station? What's the gas dial on now?) This resulted in some pretty colorful and hilarious conversations.

What? Doesn't sound fun to you? Because I'm pretty sure I laughed the whole way. Side note: They never get mad when you want to listen to your own music. No kids means no requests for songs from The Wiggles.

Reason #2: They make every ride an "experience".

The thing I would like to stress the most about bringing your grandparents along are the memories you will make. When I was younger I visited Disney World, but I was too young to really remember it. Now, when I think of the park, I think about the solid 5 minutes it took to fit all four of us into Tea Cups. I was laughing so hard I almost cried. Finally when we got the ride started, we spun it as fast as we could. We were all having a blast together. I know not everyone can say they have a vivid memory of spinning around in circles as fast as they can on the Tea Cup ride with their grandparents, watching them laugh and get dizzy...I can. I am so thankful for it, too.

Reason #3: You can take things slow.

There are so many things to see and do in Disney World. When you bring your grandparents, no one is upset about taking things slow and not making it to every ride or event. We had no schedule or goals for the day, we just went with the flow. If we ran into something that looked interesting, we did it. If we missed something, no one was crying about it. We just really enjoyed being with each other.

Reason #4: Hit up the more exotic restaurants and let your taste buds enjoy!

Face it. You're probably tired of eating chicken fingers and burgers at the more mainstream spots or food carts in the parks. The good thing about Disney World is that every place we encountered had a kid's menu. But, before leaving for our trip we secured a reservation at SANAA, the African restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Let me just say, the food was absolutely incredible. The appetizer alone was enough to fill me up. Our waitress casually placed several helpings of Indian-style bread with sides on our table. The sauces ranged from spicy, to sweet, to savory, to smoky. I loved them all. The sweet mango chutney was probably everyone's favorite.

For dessert we had a trio of items --Tanzanian Chocolate Mousse, Coconut Cheesecake, and Chai Cream. Although the restaurant does have a kid's menu (as most do), the whole table was able to reflect on the awesome flavors and discuss in a very "we-are-experts-from-the-food-network" way how and why we would return.

Reason #5: You get to see moments like this.

This doesn't really require an explanation.

Reason #6: They know which shows are "must-see's."

My grandparents have been to Disney World several times. (I think 6.) And before we went they made sure that we booked some of the "must-see shows." Among them was the Luau at the Polynesian Resort. The show was wonderful and the food kept coming. I probably ate 7,000 calories and enjoyed every second. Not only that, they also took me to all the older places that had been at Disney World since it opened. They told me stories about eating at certain places and riding certain rides. They enjoyed telling me their stories of trips from the past when they brought my mom and aunts along. It was a vacation and history lesson on Disney all-in-one.

Reason #7: On their birthday, they are treated like royalty.

During our time at Disney World, my grandfather celebrated his birthday. To get him in the spirit, my mother made sure he wore a big pin on his chest that said, "Hello, my name is Ronald. It's my Birthday!" Every character and park staff member are looking out for these pins. My grandfather had birthday cards delivered to him at restaurants, and characters would wave at him to celebrate. After the day was over, he would always say, "I never knew so many people knew my name. Can I take the pin off now, Kerri?" Of course my mother would always smile and say, "no." We are sure that deep down he was enjoying every second of the attention. (If you are reading this, Paw Paw, know I tried to help, but mom is very adamant about those pins.) ;)

Reason #8: They will always see you as a 7 year old, so why not act like one?

It's true, you will always be a baby to some people. Moms never stop being moms, and grandparents will never stop being grandparents. Seeing you happy and enjoying yourself makes their day. And I had a blast! Goofy finally proposed to me! You see when I was little, I was convinced that Goofy and I were meant to be. The proposal even happened with an audience. Nearly 100 people waiting in line to see him got really confused when he skipped off into the sunset with me...literally. I was 7 again, and my family got a kick out of it.

Reason #9: There's never an argument about taking a much-needed rest.

Our goal was to complete one park per day. After hours of standing in lines and walking from one end of the park to the other, there was never any complaint about stopping to rest inside. On our day at Hollywood Studios, I picked a Sci-fi Drive In. It was cool and dark inside--the perfect spot for a rest. The only downside was my grandmother's lunch choice. She had salad, which she didn't touch because she said all it was, was grass. Sorry, Maw Maw.

Reason #10: You get to see them be a kid again.

This is by far the most important reason. That's my grandmother in the front row for the daily parade that happens at Magic Kingdom. I didn't see much of the parade, because watching her reach out to the characters and smiling and laughing was way more enjoyable for me. Everyone says it, but watching it in action is the real magic: You are never too old to be a kid again.

And, if you ask my grandmother, she will tell you she's never getting old. I believe her! She lives life to the fullest no matter where she goes, and has the attitude of a 35 year old to go with it (but, all the wisdom of someone who has lived a lifetime).

So, make memories whenever and wherever you can. Especially ones that involve a Magic Kingdom, people you love, and moments when you realize that for some, the wide-eyed wonder of life never ends.

Hiking the Appalachian With Only One Good Knee: The Tale of Timex

2016-01-12T12:28:00.001-08:00

January 11, 2016

This was only my second night of sleeping in a tent...in my entire life. Somehow, I had managed to escape the wonder that is sleeping in the dirt for 25 years. Day one was filled with awkward positions--a fight with a tree root. In fact, we didn't begin the first "day" until 1 a.m. when we reached our starting point. We walked and walked until 4 a.m. with nothing but the light of our head lamps and the high of our excitement. By night two, I was so exhausted that sleeping on a bed of nails sounded inviting.

I couldn't move my legs. After 12 hours of endless hiking through the Appalachian Trail, my right knee had finally decided it was done with me--it had given up miles ago and was probably waiting for me at a coffee shop until I finished this insane adventure. I talked to my left knee like she was my only hope of getting out of this alive. "Please," I whispered. "Only seven more miles tomorrow and then I'll let you sit on the couch for a month."

It was the end of August, and the only sleeping bag I could get on such short notice was meant for subzero temperatures. My cousin had bought it for her trip to New Zealand and threatened to end my life should I return it with any damages. At that moment, I felt like my life was ending anyway. My body was in no position to hike 21 miles in a day and a half.

That night, all of the hikers in our group decided to camp outside of shelter because a snake decided it wanted the whole building to himself. Although the snake didn't say anything, we were pretty sure he did not invite us to the slumber party by the way he refused to relocate.

So, we had hiked an extra mile from the fire tower, only to end up sleeping outside of shelter. Everyone else gathered for dinner around the fireplace where they added water to their Mountain House Pro Pack meals. I shoveled peanut butter and apples into my mouth and drifted off to sleep before anyone could convince me to join them. Only an hour later, another hiker offered me her leftover beef stroganoff before she and our group leader hiked a mile back to the tower to watch the stars. I would have gone, but I couldn't move my body.

As the two bounded off like they hadn't just spent 12 hours hiking, the other hikers put out the fire and left me alone in the tent. The forest was dark and full of shadows. When I was finally comfortable enough to drift off, it was a challenge. When alone in a tent, especially for the first time, every noise you hear is threat. Every rustle of the leaves and crunch of the dirt creates a frightening image in your mind of getting torn limb from limb by an angry mountain bear. I immediately thought of ways I might reason with it. "Okay, bear," I thought. "I'm only here for the night, I swear. I'll gladly give you my Snickers bar if you will just give me a head start running." Maybe it would be a nice bear. The kind I could discuss my favorite Food Network shows with before he kindly shared my breakfast with me. Yes...somehow, this seemed like a good plan.

The next day I was set to complete the last 7 miles of the hike. I woke up with the sun and surveyed the damage to my feet. My right big toe was missing skin, my left heel was crusted with blood and my right knee was still not working properly. After a handful of trail mix and some dark chocolate bars, I wrapped my feet like a war victim. I would be lying if I said I didn't look at my battle scars with pride. They were earned. But I wasn't sure how I was going to make it home.

The first mile I managed to maintain a steady pace. My trekking poles served as crutches and everything was uphill, so my knee wasn't in terrible pain. We passed beautiful things that could only be truly appreciated if you were there. Most notably, a tunnel of rhododendron that blocked the sun and cooled us as we breezed through. Our guide told us about the local plant life, and we occasionally stopped and rested long enough to grab water from our Camelbaks.

(If you ever have a chance to hike a portion of the AT, I highly recommend it. It's absolutely beautiful, and the views are stunning.)

"The rest of our hike is downhill," our guide warned. "I better go ahead of you guys so you know where to step." I must say, I am still thankful he took the lead. The path was steep and winding down fast. My feet struggled to find balance with my giant backpack full of too much food. I had completely overpacked and had enough food for a 4 day hike. Suddenly I stepped, and a sharp pain shot through my body. I winced and looked down at my swollen knee. I felt like I had aged 40 years on this hike, but I wasn't going to quit. I pressed on.

The trail we completed on the hike.

My guide explained to me that on the trail everyone receives a trail name. Which made a lot of sense, considering I had been hiking with men who only answered to "Briar Patch" or "Jabez". He looked at me. "You know," he said. "I am going to call you Timex. You can take a lickin' and keep on tickin'." So, I became Timex, the most broken and determined wannabe hiker on the AT.

As I rounded the final loop, I could see and smell civilization. I was hobbling on my good knee and pushed every step of the way until finally my feet had reached a paved road.

Timex had made it.

I'm not entirely sure what motivated me to hike 21 miles in one weekend. Actually, no. That's a lie. I do know. I needed an escape. I needed an accomplishment. There is a power in knowing you can overcome something difficult. There is a power in knowing you ultimately decide what you are capable of. For me, that was enough to keep going.

(Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.)

My Greatest Takeaway from Rome

2015-09-07T19:39:00.003-07:00

December 12, 2015

Cesare, the charming Italian waiter at Osteria dei Pontefici, walked away from my table stifling a laugh. What had I done wrong? I ordered “water with no gas”, I didn’t ask for an espresso after 11 a.m., I even managed to ask for cheese using my very best Italian. “Vorrei formaggio, per favore.” So, why was he snickering as he headed back to the kitchen? And then it hit me. Only tourists ask for their order to-go.

In Rome it’s uncommon for one to take home leftovers, and it’s considered a sin if you wake up the next morning and microwave leftover noodles for breakfast. These are two evils I was about to commit with no shame. Cesare pointed me out to a fellow waiter and they belly laughed as he pulled out an aluminum tray with a separate sheet of tin foil to cover my transgressions.

Located just 5 minutes from Vatican City, Osteria dei Pontefici is a smaller establishment tucked under the high-rise buildings of Via Gregorio VII. From the outside seating, your horizon line is framed by the dome of St. Peter’s Cathedral and, when he’s working, the cheeky grin of Cesare. After searching the menu, I was interested to see how fettuccine was treated outside of the U.S. As many travel experts will tell you, fettuccini alfredo is an American dish—to insist otherwise is profanity. But, I was curious to see how the Italians enjoyed their fettuccini; so, I settled onfettuccine ai funghi porcini (fettuccini with porcini mushrooms).

The noodles were thick and rich and—here’s the best part—there was no sauce. That’s right. All the noodles needed was a generous treatment of butter, olive oil, and what I can only describe as a handful of mystery spices offered to the chef from Saint Lorenzo himself. He of course is the patron saint of cooking and the only reasonable explanation for why Italian food is unquestionably the best. The mushrooms were flavorful and light, and a hint of smokiness trickled to my nose as I forgot my manners and threw my face into my plate.

And what’s this? Next to my plate in a delicate jar was freshly grated parmesan. I picked up the tiny spoon and amply dusted my noodles with the aromatic cheese. Surely this was heaven. Of course, helpings in Italy are no joke, and this restaurant was no different. This was actually one of the few places in Italy that didn’t charge us for bread service; normally, you have to pay extra, so don’t be disappointed when you sit down and the table next to you has bread but you’re left starving. There’s a good chance they are paying for it. (Tip: If you want ice in your drink, you have to request it. Although, you will immediately blow your cover if you are trying to hide the fact that you are a tourist.)

Of course now, it was time for dessert. Tiramisu della casa or homemade tiramisu is a piatto that can be found in any American-Italian restaurant. But, had I been served a weak copycat of the popular dessert my whole life? Turns out, Americans don’t do a terrible job of recreating this sweet treat. At Osteria dei Pontefici, the tiramisu is light and spongy, and the cinnamon sprinkling on top mixes well with the creamy interior. I made sure to wash it down with a foamy cappuccino. Reaching the bottom of the frothy drink didn’t mean I was finished with it; I used a spoon to lap up every last ounce of foam collected on the bottom of the cup.

After everyone was satisfied and planned on rolling back to the apartment, walking was no longer an option, we waited and waited for Cesare to bring us the bill. Minutes passed and we still sat in our chairs digesting our embarrassingly large meals.

“Cesare?” I waved him down.

“Yes?” He hurried over.

“Can we have a check please? Oh, and, can I get this as a takeaway?” Cesare looked stunned.

“Where are you from?” He leaned against the table and looked me up and down.

“Alabama. It’s in the sou..”

“Si! Si! Alabama! Like Forrest Gump!” I covered my face in shame as he walked away to pack up my leftovers. “Ok, Forrest. I get you your takeaway so you can run, Forrest. Run!”

So, what’s the greatest takeaway from my Italian holiday? When in Rome, finish your food.