Most of the time, we plan our trips several months in advance, making reservations at popular places (like the Oregon Coast in summer, or Florida in winter) when necessary. Traveling in the Midwest, we thought we could relax a bit. Everything was fine until Memorial Day suddenly appeared on the horizon, and we found ourselves without […]
Author Archive for Laurel (AKA chickadee) – Page 12
I‘ve woken up several mornings recently and had to think for a moment about where we are. The correct answer is “Portland, Oregon” where we’re visiting family and friends. Meanwhile, I’ve been doing what I can to help my folks in Apalachicola navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Michael. We’ve just finished planning our cross-country winter […]
We have a ridiculously long list of places we want to visit in our travels. Frankly, Chicago was never on the list. But when we found ourselves at Indiana Dunes State Park and realized that we could hop on the train and visit the city, we thought, “Why not?” I’m so glad we made the […]
One of the most extraordinary events in the world of birding occurs on the shores of Lake Erie in early spring. Each year, thousands of colorful warblers converge to feed and rest here as they prepare for an arduous journey to their nesting grounds in Canada. A trip to Magee Marsh in northern Ohio on […]
We are not into horse racing or whiskey. Nonetheless, when we found ourselves in Louisville, we drank whiskey and we went to the horse races. During Kentucky Derby week, no less. When in Rome, right? We happened to be in Louisville the first weekend of May, which is always the weekend of the Kentucky Derby. […]
After the languid Southern charms of Savannah and Charleston and the laid-back vibe of Asheville, Nashville was a bit of a shock. Brash, colorful, and loud, Nashville pulses day and night with the musical heartbeat that befits its title as Music City, USA. It was kind of overwhelming at first. It’s a big city, there’s […]
You guys are the best. In the past week, I’ve been reminded of another important reason why I write this blog. It not only serves as a journal of our travels but has connected us with a community of wonderful people. I’d still write our blog even if no one was reading, but knowing that […]
We’ve been on Lopez Island since the first of July, happily ensconced in our summer camp hosting gig. Meanwhile, our blog is far away, both in time and distance. It’s a bit daunting when I think of being so far behind. Much worse is when I start comparing myself to other bloggers. Bloggers who stay […]
In Charleston, an enormous pineapple fountain dominates the waterfront. This was not a random fruit choice by city planners. In the antebellum South, the pineapple was a symbol of the ultimate in hospitality. Visitors greeted with this exotic, rare, and expensive fruit felt honored by a hostess who spared no expense to ensure her guests’ […]
Savannah is the poster child for Southern charm. Elegant historic homes border lush town squares adorned with fountains and statues. Church spires rise above magnificent oaks. Spanish moss sways in the breeze, cobblestone streets line the riverfront and Southern accents prevail. Legend has it that General Sherman, best remembered for setting fire to the Confederacy […]
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If you enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, birding, art, music, quirky towns, good food, and good friends—you'll enjoy traveling with us. Join us as we explore the backroads of North America—we love company and comments!