Tag: Places I LOVE

PLACES I LOVE – Bird Bird Biscuit – Austin, Texas

April 25, 2019 3:00 AM April 25, 2019

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During a quick trip to Austin, a few weeks back Aaron and I had the day to just roam. First on our list was breakfast. After some intense Yelp searching,…

During a quick trip to Austin, a few weeks back Aaron and I had the day to just roam. First on our list was breakfast. After some intense Yelp searching, Aaron found Bird Bird Biscuit, and I am forever grateful. 💗

The Menu

As we stood in line waiting to order we read the menu over and over trying to make the best decision. Anytime Aaron and I try a new restaurant it is always our goal to order different things so we can try more options. Everything on the menu looked soooo good from the cinnamon sugar Dough-Doughs to the basil pesto on the Lovely Day (I am a pesto fanatic!). We discussed options and looked around at others orders and when it came down to ordering we just had to have the Queen Beak. Two Queen Beaks (with extra honey on the side), one Biscuit and Jam and one Orange Juice was the final order – and I am so glad we did. There is no way I would have shared my sandwich! 😍

The Restaurant

The restaurant was small in square footage but bright and colorful in appearance. The walls were stark white and covered with painted confetti. The open-air kitchen allowed you to watch the biscuits coming out of the oven and the chicken going down in the frier. During our Sunday morning visit the line was 8-10 people long constantly and every chair was filled with brunchers enjoying their biscuit treats!

After ordering we moved out of the way and waited for our breakfast. In a matter of moments, our paper bags were ready! Everything perfect (including the extra honey!)

The restaurant offers a couple inside tables, a window bar seating and several outside tables. Perfect for a patio with friends and family. We opted to run up the street to a park area to enjoy our meal. The sun was the perfect addition to this morning – such a beautiful day!

The Queen Beak

SO. GOOD. (Look at it!!! 😍🤤👆🏻) From the amazingly moist and flaky biscuit to the perfectly crispy fried chicken, this sandwich had it all. Throw in the bacon-infused chipotle mayo AND the cayenne black pepper honey and I was floating above the clouds. So spicy, so sweet and so perfect.

I’d love to tell you I plan to try something new on my next visit (and there WILL be another visit), but that would be a lie. This is the sandwich I will compare every other chicken sandwich too for the rest of time – I’m looking at you Chick Fil’A. 😏

Next time you are in ATX, please do yourself the favor of experiencing Bird Bird Biscuit (I’ll meet you there! 🚙💨).

Until next week! Have a great afternoon!

xo,

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Places That I LOVE – Grand Mesa Lodge – Grand Mesa, Colorado

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February 28, 2019 3:00 AM February 28, 2019

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Growing up in Colorado we were constantly going for drives to the mountains, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. In 2011 my family and I moved to Texas and instantly…

Growing up in Colorado we were constantly going for drives to the mountains, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. In 2011 my family and I moved to Texas and instantly missed having the mountains in our back yard. Nowadays we work to get to the mountains at least once per year, the crisp air, blue sky and gorgeous terrain always renews our spirit. One of our favorite places to visit is Grand Mesa Lodge. Grand Mesa Lodge has the best accommodations, endless activities and has been beautifully remodeled!

Location

The Grand Mesa of Colorado is on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. The mesa (meaning an isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides) covers an area of about 500 square miles. The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world and boasts 312 natural lakes.

From Denver International Airport (DEN) it is about a 5-hour drive to the lodge. Looking for a shorter commute? You can also fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) where you will only be 1-hour from the lodge. Depending on the season roads can be messy so plan ahead, get a 4-wheel drive vehicle and take your time – it’s a beautiful drive!

Borrowed from ColoradoVacation.com

As you pull up to the lodge on 65 you can’t miss the iconic Grand Mesa Lodge sign! Be sure to pull in to the lodge – where you can get checked in, enjoy a hot beverage or a cold beer!

The Lodge

After the historic snow of 2016-2017 season Grand Mesa Lodge had to do some intensive roof repairs. While the lodge was under construction the owners Mike and Rose Wenner discovered extensive damage to the structure, this finding let them to a nearly complete renovation. The new and improved lodge is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends and family!

The view of the back of the lodge showcases the large picture windows and outdoor seating – these windows overlook the beautiful Island Lake below. The lodge sits at an elevation of 10,500 ft and is the highest year-round operational lodge.

Inside the lodge, you will find a fully stocked general store! Everything from deodorant and toothpaste to fishing poles and (the softest ever) sweat pants! I always seem to find something I can’t live without! 🛍 During our recent trip, our group (mostly from Texas and California 🤷🏻) were excited to find canned Oxygen (Boost Oxygen) in the store. Everyone enjoyed having this on hand during our active weekend on the mountain – the elevation is no joke!

In addition to the general store, the lodge features a cozy seating area around a wood burning stove! Such a great place to relax and warm up after playing in the snow!

Of all the improvements made to the lodge, this one might be my favorite! 🍻 During their renovation, they added a bar and large seating area. The bar serves everything from local beer on tap to cocktails and wine by the glass. In addition, they also offer delicious bar food such as, house-made pizza, HOT wings and chili! Each food item we had was served hot and better than the last! I highly recommend Mikes secret recipe HOT🔥 wings – they are perfect for the spicy food lover!

The night we arrived, the lodge featured live music by a local artist. Her music was easy to listen to and enjoyable. The perfect addition to this cozy atmosphere!

One cannot visit Grand Mesa Lodge without meeting Wylie! Wylie is the resident pup that loves to greet newcomers from his stoop. This friendly pup is sure to make an impression on every Mesa visitor!

“Many guests have become good friends and it’s like welcoming guests to our home when they stay here because we live here and want them to get the most out of their visit”, –Mike Wenner.

Photo borrowed from Grand Mesa Lodge’s Facebook Page

Accommodations

While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are 16 private cabins and 2 hotel rooms to choose from. Each cabin has an individual layout accommodating different quantities of people (check out the cabins here). We always stay in Cabin 12 which has two queen beds (in private bedrooms) and a futon couch. In addition to sleeping accommodations, each cabin has a full kitchen with a dining table. The kitchens are stocked with dishes, silverware and some select cookware – everything you need to make a hot breakfast or a can of soup!

❄The Grand Mesa averages 425 inches of snow per season, that is over 35 feet!!! ❄

Activities

While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun!

Winter –

Snowmobiling (Mike is the BEST tour guide!)
Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country Skiing)
Ice Fishing
Skiing/Snowboarding @ Powderhorn Ski Resort (a 20-minute drive down the road)

Summer/Fall –

Fishing
Boat Rentals
4-Wheeling
Golf @ Cedaredge Golf Club (a 30-minute drive down the road)
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Swimming
Fall Color Viewing
Hunting

Photo borrowed from Grand Mesa Lodge’s Facebook Page

Photo borrowed from the Wenner’s collection.

Weddings

If you are looking for a wedding spot look no further. Grand Mesa Lodge offers the most beautiful untouched canvas, perfect for tieing the knot surrounded by those you love.

With cabins for the whole party, a gorgeous overlook for the ceremony and the beautiful lodge for the reception Grand Mesa Lodge is your one-stop shop for a classic mountain wedding. Interested in more information? Click here.

If you are looking to take a step away, to unplug and enjoy nature as it’s intended
Grand Mesa Lodge is the place for you.
Mike and Rose will welcome you into their home like family.
It really is Colorado’s hidden gem.

If you have any questions leave them below, if you make the trip make sure to scratch Wiley’s ears for me! 🐶

xo,

Interested in more information on our Colorado travels? click here

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Places I LOVE – Fort George Brewery + Public House – Astoria, Oregon

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September 27, 2018 3:00 AM September 27, 2018

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During our visit to the Pacific Northwest this past summer a stop in Astoria, Oregon was at the top of our 16-year-old daughter’s list. She was determined to visit The…

During our visit to the Pacific Northwest this past summer a stop in Astoria, Oregon was at the top of our 16-year-old daughter’s list. She was determined to visit The Goonies house and see The Goonies exhibit at the Oregon Film Museum. So we set off north from Newport to Astoria. Along the way, we played in the sand, stopped for a million photo ops and worked up quite the appetite. 😉

As we were driving we were talking about what kind of food we wanted for lunch. Our visit in Newport was filled with delicious Clam Chowder (Read more on that here), sweet treats and even BBQ. One thing we hadn’t had was a really good burger. In addition to a good burger, we were all ready for some roughage 😋- time for a salad!

We drove into town and were quick to find a parking spot on the main drag (Commerical Street). There we set off for lunch – something with a great burger and salad.

As we headed up the hill we spotted the beautiful old building that hosts the Fort George Brewery + Public House. After a quick Yelp search, we knew we had found it – the perfect spot for lunch.

I started my meal off with their garden salad which is described as, “Local Kingfisher Farms organic greens, cherry tomatoes, shaved carrots, English cucumber, croutons with choice of dressing”. I mean like nummmmm, makes my mouth water just typing it! 😍

Adreena went after their Ceasar Salad, “Organic romaine, house-made Caesar dressing, parmesan, croutons, lemon wedge”. So fresh and crisp – she was obsessed!

For the main course, Adreena and I shared their Fort Burger, “1/3 LB. Painted Hills Oregon beef” served with a side of organic house cut fries and a pickle. This burger was flavorful and juicy – just what the doctor ordered!

Aaron opted for the Beer Cheese Burger, “Aged Tillamook cheddar sauce, frizzled onions, Applewood bacon” served with a side salad. He was highly satisfied with his choice.

We all left the table with full bellies and happy hearts. The Public House was beautifully designed with small touches of contemporary style mixed with the natural state of the building. It provided a cozy, comfortable environment that was very enjoyable.

Of course, we couldn’t visit a brewery without trying some of the local selection! 🍻 To go with our lunch I selected a cider and Aaron went for the Vortex IPA. Both were ice cold and delicious! I can’t wait to try more Fort George options, their beer list is a mile long!

Have you made it to Astoria or tried Fort George? I highly recommend it if you ever get the opportunity!

xo,

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Places I LOVE – Rainbow Drive-In – Honolulu, Hawaii

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August 2, 2018 3:00 AM August 2, 2018

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On the last day of our Honolulu adventure, we were invited to meet friends at the local Rainbow Drive-In located in Kapahulu. Not knowing what to expect, we were pleasantly…

On the last day of our Honolulu adventure, we were invited to meet friends at the local Rainbow Drive-In located in Kapahulu. Not knowing what to expect, we were pleasantly surprised by the delicious foods but also by the reasonable prices! The Rainbow menu covered all the local favorites and was jamming with customers.

The menu is based around the Hawaiian concept of “plate lunches”. A plate lunch consists of two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad and one entree and is quintessentially Hawaiian. Across the menu you will find many local favorites such as the Loco Moco, Boneless Chicken Mixed Plate and the Bacon, Spam and Egg Sandwich.

History

The Rainbow Drive-In has been a cornerstone of the community for over 5o years. Proudly serving affordable, filling food to the common working man and Waikiki beach crowd.

Food

For my lunch, I chose the Loco Moco bowl (a smaller portion of the Loco Moco Plate). The Loco Moco is a local favorite that consists of a ground beef patty placed on a bed of white rice, smothered in brown gravy and topped with an egg cooked your way. This was honestly the most filling meal I had our entire trip. The complex flavor and texture combination made for the perfect lunch on the go!

If ever in Honolulu, I highly recommend a stop by the Rainbow Drive-In. It is worth the Uber fair!

Nothing beats eating where the locals eat, such a great way to learn more about the culture.

xo,

Carolyn

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Places I LOVE – Mo’s Seafood & Chowder – Newport, Oregon

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July 19, 2018 3:00 AM July 19, 2018

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If you have ever been to Oregon, I am sure you’ve heard of Mo’s Seafood & Chowder. If you haven’t been to Oregon – be sure to add Mo’s Seafood &…

If you have ever been to Oregon, I am sure you’ve heard of Mo’s Seafood & Chowder. If you haven’t been to Oregon – be sure to add Mo’s Seafood & Chowder to the top of your list.

History

Mo’s started on the Newport Bayfront in the early 1940s and has been expanding ever since. Currently, there are nine Mo’s locations spread across the Oregon Coast. The restaurant was lovingly run by Mohava “Mo” Marie Niemi a Newport local. Throughout the years Mo was a warm and inviting hostess to many tourists, famous people and locals alike. In 1992 Mo passed, leaving a lasting legacy and solid foundation to her family. The business is now run by second and third generation family members.

Restaurant

The Bayfront location is super charming and inviting – filled with local fishing and nautical memorabilia. The staff is kind and helpful – always eager to make a suggestion. Mo’s Seafood & Chowder truly is such a gem nestled in the rows of businesses you find along the Newport Bayfront.

Food

Mo’s menu is brimming with delicious fresh-from-the-bay favorites. From Slumgullion to Steamer Clams, Mo’s has you covered. Although the menu is filled with enticing options I just can’t seem to order anything other than the chowder. It is just sooooo good! 😋 With or without the bread bowl the clam chowder is a sure thing! In addition to your seafood favorites Mo’s offers salads, sandwiches and desserts. There is even a section on the menu for “Flatlanders” 😂.

Another wonderful part of Mo’s Seafood and Chowder is that you can purchase the Chowder Base here and it will ship to you anywhere in the US!!!

Have you ever tried Mo’s? Tell me about your experience in the comments below!

xo,
Carolyn

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COFFEE TIME – Ultra Life Cafe

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June 28, 2018 3:00 AM June 28, 2018

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One of my favorite things about Oregon is the plentiful array of drive-thru coffee shops. The options are endless and the quality is bar-none. On our recent trip, a stop at…

One of my favorite things about Oregon is the plentiful array of drive-thru coffee shops. The options are endless and the quality is bar-none. On our recent trip, a stop at Ultra Life Cafe was strongly recommended. It doesn’t take much to convenience us so we knew we had to make a stop. 🙃 Ultra Life is nothing short of perfect, from the list of options, overall esthetic and superb flavors – we are hooked!

Drive-Thru or Walk Up

I love that Ultra Life gives you the option of running thru the drive-thru or walking up and enjoying your morning cup in their quaint enclosed patio. As a first-timer, I definitely need extra time to review the menu and make my selection.

The Ultra Life Cafe menu has everything you could possibly ask for. From a killer Nitro Cold Brew to a Matcha Green Tea Latta, they have you covered. In addition to the diverse menu, Ultra Life has SIX milk alternatives for you to choose from, count them – SIX. 🙌🏻 In making my decision it is obvious I fell claim to excellent marketing, as I chose the “Northwest Fog” – a tea latte infused with rose syrup. It was absolutely delightful! Adreena went with her favorite Matcha but opted to have it crafted with oatmeal milk. Aaron went with the classic flat white. All of us were very impressed with the overall presentation, speed of preparation and obvious quality of ingredients in each drink. ☕💕

If you have not had a chance to visit the Pacific Northwest, please move it toward the top of your list. There are so many amazing places to see, learn and eat! This copy of Travel Newport is full of fun things to do around Newport, Oregon – which is my personal favorite coast location.

Have you ever been to the Oregon Coast? Know someplace we should stop next trip? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,

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