Comfort in Chains

While I'm usually the advocate of trying the interesting local restaurant, sometimes a chain can offer the known variety that just fits what you're craving. Today I stopped in at an Applebee's for a late lunch. They have one dish, the Fiesta Lime Chicken, that since I stumbled onto it a few years ago I have ordered probably 90% of the time I've been to an Applebee's.

Sometimes I think we crave comfort food and the modern-day version of that has become the chain restaurant. I know what I'm getting, pretty much regardless of where I am, traveling or local. It's for the most part consistent in flavor and portion size. I don't go to Outback looking for some great new culinary experience, I go to have the Shrimp on the Barbie. There are those few chains that have a wide enough variety that there's not one specific thing that my creature-of-habit side has tightly latched onto. Cracker Barrel, Ihop and Shorty Smalls are all good examples of those that have a range of tastes that can allow me to expand beyond buttermilk pancakes (and Cracker Barrel has those down to an art form.)

I think I must need need to get out and travel soon. I'd be worried that my sense of good eats is getting warped, but as my husband and I were traveling home from a recent day-trip, we both spied one of those roadside stand eateries in a town with a population that scarcely reaches 100. We both remarked how that there were probably some pretty tasty concoctions to be found there, but since neither of us were remotely hungry we drove on. I did however, file that location into my list of "places to check out."

Totally Off-topic

I'm adding this merely because I can.
Oh and because I cannot wait for this movie to come out. It looks ridiculously cute and funny. The soundtrack should be fantastic too.



What is all this nonsense that's not food or travel related? (It requires me to leave home and go to a theater. That's travel I suppose.) Here's a website explaining it all.

So as not to be totally off-topic, I did try the Otis & Betty's snack mix "Original" flavor and within a day the entire bag was gone. It was that good; a really nice mix of sweet & spicy that I thought was a little off in the "Meet Jack." I still have "BBQ" to try. Will sample and post more on that later.

And Sometimes the Good Eats Come to You

Due to a recent hospital stay, my husband and I have received a few gourmet and snack baskets. It's been a great opportunity to try out some new gourmet goodies that I otherwise might have skipped on the shelves. Many florists look for local vendors with unique food and gift items to create a variety you won't find off the shelf of most chain grocery stores. The ones we received were no exception. Since some of these regional treats may be worth seeking out, I'll share what we've sampled so far.

Toblerone, Chocolate Bar with Almond & Honey Nougat - A treat I indulged in as a teenager as the Swiss Colony shop that was once in our local mall sold them. They're still good, but not as amazing as I remember as a kid.

Otis & Betty's, Snack Mix - There's about 3 varieties in my pantry now, and the only one I've tried thus far is "Meet Jack." It's an odd mix of savory & sweet, so the verdict is still out on this one. (They do not have a website that I can find so far.)

Janis & Melanie, Cheese Straws - For the cheese lover who likes a real kick, these supposedly southern traditional snack are spectacular. They have just enough heat to get your attention without sending you running for the nearest cold drink. Very tasty and worth finding! (They too are in the internet dark ages.)

Brent & Sam's, Gourmet Cookies - These you can get in our area at Kroger, but in limited varieties. While they're not home-made in taste, their unique flavors are quite exceptional. I wouldn't have bought the Chocolate Chip Pecan but they are good. They're usually aren't worth the $4 a box they cost at Kroger, but if they're on sale and it's the Key Lime White Chocolate and I'm experiencing a moment of weakness... there are circumstances that come into play.

I have a whole pantry full of other goodies just waiting to be enjoyed, so as I find things worth noting I'll do just that.

Oh yes, there was this cute sugar cookie that looked like a sunflower in one basket. It was one of those individually wrapped icing coated cookies, I'm sure you've seen them before. I know I'd have chipped a tooth if I'd tried to eat the middle; the icing was that hard. I suggest you let those remain pretty on the shelf and save yourself the dental work.

A Disappearing Act

I haven't completely given up this blog or disappeared forever. No, I've just been a bit sidetracked and not really into the proper frame of mind to spend a little time sharing some good eats and good roads.

The disappearance is over, at least I hope it is.

While my travels have been rather limited as of late (that's a simple way to put it,) my sampling of eats both exceptional and not quite edible has continued. I've found one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches on the planet, and the secret is simple. It's cooked on a grill where they cook hamburgers and chicken breast all afternoon, plus eggs and bacon in the morning. The flavor brought from the grill make all the difference, because they use a merely adequate bread and cheese. (Add some of the bacon cooked on the same grill to that sandwich and mmmmm that's some serious love there, children.) I'm afraid to think of when the grill was last really cleaned, but that's somewhere I just try to not let my mind go as I watch them slap the cheese onto my hot sandwich.

I also always thought it would be difficult to make green beans completely inedible. I was wrong. Number one rule of any food is it should not taste like kerosene. Enough said about this unpleasant memory.

You can't go wrong with fresh fruit, good quality yogurt and good granola. Toss together and eat for any meal, any time.

I don't care if it takes longer, mashed or creamed potatoes belong SKIN OFF. Period. I can eat them if they're served skin-on, but ask any real southerner. They'll tell you that there shouldn't be skins still in that mess of potatoes.

Just a few lessons learned while sharing my space with the Arkansas Childrens Hospital. I've learned so many more but these little culinary related bits I thought were worthwhile to share here.

More travels and treats to come soon!

Mmmm... Pizza!

In my travels I've noticed the best pizza is usually what you get by asking the locals about their favorite pizza place. Recently in Little Rock I was guided in the right direction by some great nurses at Arkansas Children's Hospital. They suggested Shotgun Dan's and were they ever right! It was exceptional, and I would definitely return. I would however remember that you want to bring your appetite, as they don't skimp on the toppings or flavor.

Locally, we have a very good pizza restaurant that creates some interesting combinations besides the same old cheese and pepperoni. Upper Crust Pizza Co. is probably the best in my area. They accomplish the right balance of crust, sauce, cheese, toppings and herbs to get a filling but not overly greasy pizza.

The best pizza I've ever eaten was at BJ's in Lahina in Maui. It had the perfect blend of all the above, with a nice complement of beverages such as Pog. It was there I became addicted to this delightful blend of fruit juice that I've attempted to replicate at home, but never get it quite as good as it was there. Oh and the location didn't hurt things either.

Another one that ranks probably not far behind BJ's is Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company. Their menu is entertaining to read, and while sometimes that can mean a restaurant is too busy building the atmosphere these guys do not disappoint on the food. The place hums with activity and excitement, the decorating is quirky but cool, and its a multi-purpose destination. They serve great pizza and it hosts a movie house and a huge game room. The owners really took advantage of a great old movie theater location and use it to it's potential. Besides, any place that in addition to good pizza serves a William Shatner Quesadilla (Nothin' but cheese) and a Royale with Cheese can't be all bad!

While the big chains can make a consistently pretty good pizza, and in instances like Pizza Hut's Cheese Bread a rather tasty dish, they just can't quite compare to the tasty delights that come from a good local pizzeria.

On a side note, our travels have been a bit limited as of late, but they will be resuming soon. More trips + More good food = More posts!

Destination Change Leads to an Interesting Question

Sometimes where you plan to put your pillow at night may not be where you end up. My plan to go to Mount Magazine this weekend changed course this week and landed me at Arkansas Children's Hospital. It's a fantastic facility and has all the latest and greatest technology. They have amazing capabilities and a staff that's outstanding. The linens department however clearly is a bit under funded; they're clean but I've never seen a blanket with more holes.

So while I was consuming a bit of hospital cafeteria cuisine (now there's an oxymoron for you) I wondered how this hospital fares against others in the food department. The food they've brought into the hospital room for patients wasn't awful, some of it was even good. Most hospital food has a reputation just slightly below that of airline food... or maybe the two are slugging it out for the dining choice of last resort.

I'm not sure that reputation is a completely fair one. I had a pretty great grilled cheese sandwich tonight that came straight off the hot grill. I also had some rather spicy BBQ chips that could have some unpleasant consequences later. When I was a young teenager, I worked as a Candy Striper for a local hospital, and the food from their grill was definitely better than just "acceptable." I don't think I was the only one who was partial to specific menu items. It was working there that lead me to discover I like grape and cranberry juices. In one small town in Arkansas, it's not unusual to see Sunday lunchtime bring in a number of families still in church attire dining at the hospital cafeteria. The odd part is that they're not just visiting with a patient and the hospital was convenient; the food was the reason for the stop. Does that mean this particular hospital's food is that good or are the other selections in town that foul?

Are we judging hospital food on an unfair scale, based on what we get in restaurants? Or maybe I've been pleasantly surprised because my own expectations are just so low as I've always heard how the food is horrible.

Is there call for a good chef to run the food operations at a hospital? Maybe so. A sharp person running the kitchen operations can make a vast difference in the quality of product that comes out of that kitchen. Looking at restaurants that have closed in recent years; I know a number of them locally could have made it with better management, especially in the kitchen. A good chef can turn mediocre into magnificent with just a little extra knowledge. I've always gotten the impression most hospital cafeterias take their lead from nutritionists. Not that a nutrition specialist is a bad person to have on the team, but what's good for you can be made tastier with a little extra effort.

I guess when I really think about it, that little town has one very smart chef in charge of the kitchen of their local hospital.

What makes a hotel great?

If you travel, what is it that makes you say "Wow, I really liked that hotel. I'd gladly stay there next time?" Is it a comfortable bed? Furnishings? The hotel staff's attitude? Maybe it's more the little things, like a good shower, or nice linens. Is there a chain you like or do you try different places such as boutique hotels?

Things I look for in any hotel, regardless of rates:
> Good parking - I don't want to walk a million miles or trust a valet that seems questionable. I expect covered or restricted access at a higher price hotel.
> Internet Access - It should work. I shouldn't have to say that, but it's sometimes an issue. It should also be included for free. The days of charging $10 per day for it are nearing an end.
> Quiet - Every door nearby that closes or child that charges down the hall to their room should not disturb my sleeping in. Speaking of noise, if the bar or restaurant area plays music at high volumes past 7pm and your room will be situated nearby you should be told of this on check-in and have an opportunity to choose a different room.
> Non-smoking - As a non-smoker, I have refused rooms in the past or had to change rooms when I walk in and am met with a knockout smell of stale cigarette smoke. (So please if you're a smoker, don't smoke in the non-smoking rooms! Thanks!)
> Cleanliness - This should go without saying.
> Shower & Bathroom - Adequate water pressure is essential. There's been a few hotels that I want the owner to take a shower with the air running and see how the curtain blows in and sticks to your body. Not cool.
> Bedding - Please opt for the fitted sheets on bottom. It's handy to be able to use the same for both top and bottom, but try sleeping on one at home sometime and you'll know it's annoying. While we're talking bedding, it's great to see how some hotels will leave a spare blanket and extra pillows in a drawer or closet.
> Refrigerator - Any hotel, regardless of how upscale should put a small fridge in rooms. If the fridge is a mini-bar, leave me at least a little space for my own items.
> Water - If the tap water isn't fit to drink, provide a couple of bottles of water. It's cheap in bulk, make the investment.
> Plug-ins - There's never enough of them nearby the desk areas. I need to plug in my gadgets so at least 3 is a good starting point.

My expectations from upscale hotels or resorts are higher, as they should be.
> Afternoon snacks - Thank you to those hotels that have a cookie, coffee and/or cocoa available in the evenings at check-in. It's nice to relax with a little something sweet after traveling that day. I've seen this more often at mid-priced hotels than high end ones. They could learn from this idea.
> Room Service - If I'm staying in a hotel with room service, offer it 24/7. The whole point to me is to get a fruit & cheese tray at midnight when I've got the munchies!

The biggest thing I want from any hotel, anywhere is to get what I've reserved. If I reserve a non-smoking king room, I should get a non-smoking king room, period. I've had better luck overall getting what I reserved with smaller hotels than with large resorts.

It's a lot of questions, but I'd like your opinion. Maybe there's something I should be looking for when I travel that I haven't even thought of that's important to you.

Ice Cream and V-8

I have two more reasons to stop at the grocery store on your way home today. Haagen-Dazs has a line of "Light" ice creams, and the Vanilla Bean puts many of the regular full-fat ice creams on the grocer's freezer to shame. It's that good. They have quite a few of their regular flavors available in "Light" versions, but no Mayan Chocolate as of yet. (My hips are safe from massive weight gain for now...)

Also thanks to my neighbors that introduced me to the pints of take home Haagen-Dazs, I've found a new drink that's a little less likely to leave me shopping for bigger pants. I've always wished I could stomach V8 Vegetable Juice, but it just has such an overpowering gross flavor I would cringe at just a sip. Thanks to V8's new VFusion, I can get my veggies without having to suffer through consuming lots of those little trees, known to most people as broccoli. It comes in three flavors, and so far I've tried the Peach Mango. I can't find any of that powerful vegetable taste in it so far, which to me is a good thing. According to the package, one 8oz glass is the "equivalent" of 1/2 cup of fruit and 1/2 cup of vegetables. While nothing beats eating a carrot in it's natural raw form for maximum nutritional value, this does easily top my current rate of vegetable consumption. It is considered "not a low-calorie food" but I think it's better use of calories than the excuse for calories found in many sodas.

Just a couple of things to pick up on your trip by the grocery store this weekend. Sometimes it doesn't take traveling any farther than your own kitchen for a bit of culinary goodness.

The Big Nashville Post, Part 2

So the food was good and the hotel overall was quite nice. The rooms were a little lacking but I wasn't there to see the hotel room. I wasn't really there just for the food. The whole reason for this outting was to see a man whom I hold at least partially responsible for my gaining any confidence to experiment with my cooking and the results be edible, Alton Brown. I was willing to spring for the VIP tickets, which gave me great seats to his afternoon cooking demonstration, a signed copy of his newest cookbook, plus a VIP "Meet & Greet" reception later that day. Was it worth it? You bet.

The contraption pictured in my previous post was a part of his demonstration on how to properly deep fry a turkey with a bit of a comical yet effective approach to safety. A series of pullies and rope allowed him to lower the turkey (raw, on stage) into a hot pot of peanut oil. While he talked, the turkey cooked to perfection in just over 30 minutes. Out of about 650 people there, a friend at the table with me was picked out of the crowd to sample the turkey. Being a generous guy and all, my friend gave the rest of us a small taste too. (Yes, it really was good.) Alton took questions from the audience at the end and answered everything with his usual enthusiasm.

The hotel had left a note to those with VIP tickets that since the promised cookbook was not ready for this weekend, Alton would be signing stickers to place inside the book, which would be mailed to our homes. Since they knew this would be a disappointment, they would provide a professional photographer to take pictures with Alton for free. Nice! At the reception, they had a variety of hors devours, both sweet & savory; recipes for some were distributed at the afternoon demonstration. After moving through a relatively quick line, I got the opportunity to meet Alton. This wasn't my first time to meet him at this type of event, and I can say he seems like a genuinely nice guy every time. The fact he shares my enjoyment of both cooking and motorcycles doesn't hurt either. If you like traveling and finding those not-chain restaurants, you should check out Alton's special airing on Food Network now, it's called "Feasting on Asphalt." He & his crew find some great family diners in the south, and he takes a deep breath before biting into a brain sandwich. (A little disturbing if you ask me, he's clearly more brave than I am.)

The cooking demonstration left me in tears I was laughing so hard, and that wasn't an isolated instance. My face hurt from smiling so much, it was that entertaining. The reception was well thought out, well put together and I have a great photo of my husband and I with one of the few famous folks I've ever met. Add to all that good food in the company of friends and it makes for one very nice weekend out of town.

The Big Nashville Post, Part 1

Some trips are all about getting to the final destination and for some trips the journey is the destination. The stopover at night is merely a place to close your eyes and recall the day while looking forward to the next one.
This trip was all about the stopping point, Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. This wasn't my first visit to the hotel; last December I stayed there to check out the Christmas decorations. It's well worth the drive to see such a display of color and the over-the-top extent to which they carry the whole theme. During the summer, the indoor gardens are full of lush plants everywhere you turn. The hotel has an open-air feel, leaving you feeling like you're walking outdoors. The temperature is comfortable, you even feel a nice light breeze once in a while. Pretty amazing stuff when you think of all that's going on here to create this artificial outdoors. Rooms are fortunately in the process of being renovated. I discovered on this visit that my room last time must have been one of those that was recently updated, as the room this time was in dire need of work. If you're staying there, be sure to ask that you get one of the renovated rooms or you'll be disappointed for the price. The few extra dollars to get an atrium view are worth it, although I'd likely decline if it's on the first floor. (You may want to open the picture, I purposely left it a larger size so you can get an idea of how open and airy the place really is.)

The food. Woah.
We started off with a new restaurant that was well worth finding, Park Cafe. Some of the dishes that got rave reviews: Sauteed Shrimp appetizer, Duck Breast laquered with Pomegranate and Honey, Baked Pasta Rounds, Double Cup Pork Chop and the Green Chile Macaroni-n-cheese. Save room for the deserts, as the Creme Brulee and Molten Chocolate Cake are worth the calories. The restaurant is dark yet classy, with small rooms that keep the sound level low and environment more intimate. I wish I'd brought a camera to dinner, as the presentation was as great as the food itself.

That wasn't the only meal of the trip, but the Park Cafe stood out as the most spectacular. Lunch on Saturday came from the food court at Opry Mills Mall, located adjacent to the hotel. "The Best Chicken..." place had good popcorn chicken. Saturday evening I capped off a fantastic day with dinner at Ruth's Chris. I've gone on record here several times about how great Ruth's Chris is, and while it was still very good, it wasn't quite up to the exceptional standards I have set for them. I attribute it to being a very busy Saturday night, as waiters were bustling around at warp speed. It served as a good reminder that the best time to visit a restaurant of this type is most often a weeknight.

To be continued... including an explanation of the guy and his ladder.

More Details Soon

So when am I going to post about my trip to see Alton Brown in Nashville, Tennessee this past weekend? Never! Just kidding.
I'll have more pictures tomorrow so the details are coming soon. Until then, you'll just have to wonder about this slightly crazy (yet likely to win a Nobel Prize) contraption.
It includes:
a ladder
lots of rope
a $2.50 pulley (not to be confused with the $1.50 model)
flashing red emergency light
two fire extinguishers
a large sandbox
a pot
Peanut oil
propane
and a few other items.

Sufficiently confused?

Per a Request

A friend asked that I post about the Hotel Contessa in San Antonio, Texas and my experience there. The hotel was my first real experience with a boutique hotel and it was good enough to make me want to seek out other similar hotels in future travels. The rooms were styled in a contemporary meets southwest style, and the same theme carried throughout the hotel down to the smallest details. Across the overlook in the lobby there were candles lit every night, setting an elegant yet trendy tone for the evening. In each room, one wall is all brick. It makes you feel like you're staying in one of those hip city lofts that appear in the latest architecture magazines.
The hotel staff was friendly and the concierge provided good tips for restaurants and entertainment in the area. Room service is available but not late night. Wireless internet access is also available but it's best to have a backup plan if you'll be working from the road. Pricing is around $200 per night, but varies of course based on time of year and type of room.

While you're in San Antonio, start with the Riverwalk. It's easily accessible via the Contessa Hotel, some rooms overlook the area. Lots of restaurants line the walkways, and between are stretches of landscaped areas to stroll through. The best time to visit is during the week, the crowds pour in on weekends. Also taking a drive out to the various Missions are well worth the trip. There's nothing like seeing the History Channel episodes in 3D.
The best way to see several nearby areas is a tour from SegCity. They offer various tours on a Segway. It's easy to cover a good area including the Alamo and the King William District. You can see more than you would in a walking tour, yet the tour is a small group so it's much more personal. Then there's the whole part of getting to try out a Segway, which in itself is a real treat. It's surprisingly easy to operate and once you get the hang of it, a whole lot of fun!

In March, San Antonio is a great city to visit. It was a break from the doldrums of winter when I really needed it and I would certainly return again. Just not in July.

Dessert Discovery

Run, don't walk, to your nearest grocery store! Maybe you don't have to drop everything now, but you'll want to put this on your next grocery list to try.

This treat didn't require much traveling to find, just over to our neighbor's house for dessert. It was so good though I had to mention it here. I'm not an ice cream connoisseur but like any self-proclaimed "foodie" I can appreciate a good one; Haagen-Dazs has more than one winner with those I sampled this evening. The dulce de leche is fabulous on homemade brownies, which was my desert tonight. I think next time I'll be buying one of their new flavors, Mayan Chocolate. What makes this flavor so spectacular is that I really don't care for chocolate ice cream. This is a chocolate ice cream I could eat until the cows knock on the window and ask for a bowl too.

Usually for consumption at home I buy Blue Bell, a wonderful indulgence known mainly to those of us lucky enough to live in their delivery range. My dessert discovery tonight just might make me look a little further down the dairy case for a nice alternative next time.

Good Southern Food and Roads

After my previous rant on the joys of chicken trucks, I should say that the trip really was quite nice. The chicken truck turned off after what seemed like hours but in reality was less than 20 miles. Long enough to make an impression on me, but not so long as to affect the overall trip.

The real destination of the trip, if there was such a thing, was Cafe Klaser. Located overlooking the Little Red River, the views are nice from any of the large windows that run along the back of the building. You can watch the fly fishermen wading out into the river with kids on their shoulders, anxiously waiting for the big moment. The food was very good, I had blackened Walleye and my husband had their daily special, fried catfish. Their fresh baked yeast bread is somewhat heavy but still very good, and the homemade peanut butter pie was a great way to end the meal.

What is it that makes us southerners take a perfectly healthy food and decide it would be really great battered and fried? For an appetizer, we sampled the fried green beans. Also in keeping with the southern style, they are served with ranch dressing for dipping. I guess I am southern at heart, I happy ate my fair share, and they were pretty good!

I must also revise my statement in a previous post about Highway 9 being so awful. The stretch that runs north from Mountain View to Melbourne is pretty bad, but the portion from Shirley heading into Mountain View is in good shape, by AHTD standards anyway. The scenery on Highway 5 from Mountain View north into Calico Rock as it passes through the Ozark National Forrest is nice, but the road is not especially entertaining.

The view coming into Calico Rock, Arkansas is stunning. Businesses and homes hang on the edge of bluffs overlooking the river below. You can tell as you drive through this is a classic example of a small southern town that has outlived the industries that once brought it life. Towns like these make for interesting stops along a drive, but time didn't permit a stop on this trip. Maybe next time...

Something I didn't expect to see just outside of Tuckerman, Arkansas was the Red Bull Mini. Red Bull has a mini that's just slightly modified to include a serious overdose of caffeine sized "can" on the rear. The picture here isn't one I took as is evidenced by the palm trees, but the car looked the same. Good choice of car for the product, small but fun and quite energetic.

It was an enjoyable day in all and just left me looking forward to my next great drive.

Ahh... the smell of the Road.

Next time you're on the road, get an extra sense of your environment. Roll down your window. You'll sample what motorcyclists and top-down convertible owners experience any time they take to the street. These two can tell you how the scents of honeysuckle in the summer will make you smile and how a recently deceased skunk has an immediate impact on your speed. If they've had the pleasure of roaming around the backroads of the south, they can tell you about some of the other smells too. You'll know you're next to a cow pasture without turning your head. From the "good smell" side, smoke signals from a bbq shack can make your head turn and your wheels follow, almost instinctively. Then there's chicken. Not quite KFC, but rather live chickens in their pre-KFC days. If the winds are not in your favor, you can smell a chicken farm for a couple of miles before you actually see the tell-tale long chicken coop building. While the smell does linger on, this isn't the ultimate in scent horror.

Today I experienced that ultimate. A semi truck hauling live chickens on a twisty road with no passing zones for what seems like endless miles takes the coveted top slot. It is the most horrific road smell I have encountered thus far. Take the foul smell of fowl you get when you pass by a chicken farm and put it directly in front of you for every mile down the road. Amplify it with the knowledge that the white fuzzy things in the air are fresh chicken feathers blowing by you, and those little splats you see in close proximity are what you think they are, chicken poop. I'm not sure there's a strong enough word for it, but disgusting is close. In a way I feel bad for the drivers of these trucks, or maybe their noses build up a sort of immunity to the unpleasant aroma that follows them mile after mile.

Fortunately that was only a small portion of my drive today.
There were the couple of great "Crooked and steep next ... miles" signs.
I found several reasons to crane my head around and look at the landscape below.

I've discovered my trip early this summer to the Blue Ridge Parkway has left me a little less impressed with the views I've encountered since in my home state. They haven't become any less beautiful; the bar has just been set a little higher now to truly capture my attention. I hope visiting Mount Magazine later this month will restore my joy in the Arkansas views.

Itching Powder

Staying busy this week and not traveling for a few days does two things for me. I can catch up on some needed rest in my own bed. While I'm resting, someone must sneak in and sprinkle a special itching powder labeled "desire to travel " all over my bedding. I wake up after a few days and I have this overwhelming itch to go somewhere new again.

If I'm successful convincing myself to leave the comforts of bed early enough Saturday morning, a trip toward Heber Springs, Arkansas is in my plans. The road there is fun, especially heading south from Mountain View, Arkansas. Highway 5 is the most direct, but Highway 9 seems to have that look on a map like a very active EKG strip. It leads you to loop around Greers Ferry Lake, which isn't a bad detour. What's so interesting in Heber Springs? I've got my eye on a couple of local restaurants that look appetizing, so it's off to lunch!

Next weekend it's off to sunny Nashville, Tennessee with friends to stay indoors thus avoiding the heat, consume good food and enjoy the entertainment. Host of the TV show "Good Eats", Alton Brown, will be the celebrity chef guest speaker and I hope to absorb some culinary knowledge from a guy who really seems to be one of the sharpest knives in the block.

Someone I know is traveling to St. Charles, Missouri this weekend so I have requested they make note of anything exceptional in the dining realm. I'll also be getting a report of the dining pleasures in Dallas from another friend. Hopefully both will have experiences to share that will make me want to put these two destinations onto the list of places to visit again soon.

Time Travel

"What were they thinking?" We've all stared at an object from the past and had that same thought. With some of the strange contraptions on display at Wheels Through Time, I'd love to have a time machine to go ask a few questions.
In some instances you can tell what they were thinking. They were looking for merely a solution to a problem, such as the creative biker who was clearly at a disadvantage against other riders. At Wheels Through Time, you'll find a range of American automotive and motorcycle history with a few things that border on the downright bizarre mixed in too.

The museum is located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, not far from Asheville, North Carolina and Knoxville, Tennessee. Driving in can be fun with the beautifully twisting highways that lead to the area. Souvenir shops, ice cream stands, small motels and various tourist stops dot the landscape of Maggie Valley. While slightly heavy on the tourist-oriented kitsch, it's still a neat place to visit. The Wheels Through Time museum makes it worth the drive.


The place is like a small slice of heaven to a motorcycle enthusiast. What's truly fascinating is that the vast majority of the machines they house are in running condition. I did wonder how some of their displays ran when they were new, much less 50 or more years after the fact. Currently they have a special display featuring women as a part of motorcycling history, mostly told through photos and documents. You could spend days and never see all of it, there's so much attention to even the finest details in every piece. The owners know it all by heart; ask a question about any piece in the entire collection and they can answer plus give you a complete history of the piece. It's an amazing experience for anyone who likes antique machinery, and especially for those with an affinity for motorcycles.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

The whole area looks something like this.
Yes, it really is this stunning around almost every curve. There's no lack of curves either.



The Blowing Rock area can be simply described in one word: beautiful. Situated just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the North Carolina mountains, it's a quaint town with upscale shops, interesting restaurants and quick access to some of the most scenic and challenging roads I've ever traveled. It only takes traveling down a few of the 469 miles of this parkway to give you an aching neck from constantly turning your head to soak in the views from all angles. (Above Photo compliments of my own Canon Powershot S80.)

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian mountain range starting in Virginia and continuing south to North Carolina. While there are numerous entry points, there are no gas stations along the parkway itself. Take a camera and prepare to stop often, as around every bend is another panoramic vista begging to be captured on film (or your choice of digital media.) With the number of miles covered by the parkway, it falls well within a day's drive of many areas of the east coast and westward to the Mississippi River, possibly even farther in southern areas.

Regarding hotels, my husband and I spent a few days at the Meadowbrook Inn. Rooms are nice, especially for the rates. The hotel staff really made the visit exceptional as they were sincerely helpful. Every single person you'd meet in a hallway or ask for anything at all was friendly and eager to assist. The decor is simple and traditional, with a mix of antique and classic style. It's well worth checking into the upgraded suites as some have amenities such as fireplaces, two-person jacuzzis, large 4-poster king beds, even a private swimming pool!

I can't offer a lot in the way of restaurant evaluation, as I was attending an event that was mostly catered. The bartenders at the Meadowbrook Bar were in keeping with the rest of the hotel staff; they even went as far as to rename a couple of drinks just for our group of car enthusiasts spending a few days there. Thus the "Radiator Flush" and "Battery Acid" were on the list of recommend beverages.
(If I recall correctly, these two are also known as a "Red Headed Sister" and "Jager Monster". A more accurate name for either would be simply "woah," as that's the feeling you have after consuming just one of them.)

Just a tip for those considering the area as a destination: The hotel staff indicated that hotel rooms throughout the area go quickly in the fall, as the changing colors and moderate temperatures make it the most popular time of the year to visit.

I can definitely see a trip back to the Blue Ridge Parkway and all it's scenic overlooks in my future. This one easily falls into the "Good Roads and Good Eats" category.

A Whirlwind Trip to Baltimore

I want to complain about my trip, I really do. Trekking through the airports all day is never a very appealing task; especially when you are due to arrive at your destination at 1 am. Despite my daring the airport, airline and crew to make my trip miserable, they just wouldn't cooperate. The airport staff, even the ones who normally just give you a barely audible grunt were amazingly friendly. People were helpful, even the general public didn't seem all that irritated to be herded through the lines like cattle; I suppose that was because we weren't being treated as such.

The hotel however, did find ways to disappoint. This is my second stay at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel. The rooms were adequate, the bed linens were some of the best I've found in a hotel yet. When the bed linens are the bright spot, you know it's not a good sign. Suffice it to say they completely twisted around the reservations such that they had our reservation cancelled at one point. Upon arrival, the long hallways to reach your room seem infinite. I was there two nights, and both mornings I woke up to the chants of protestors. They were close enough to be heard in the room, but not nearby enough to interpret beyond a repeated chorus of "What do we want?" Not a fault of the hotel, I understand, but an annoyance nonetheless. Overall the hotel was probably quite nice about ten years ago, and the upkeep has been just adequate. It was not worth the rate of over $300 per night. Internet access was inexcusably atrocious, but I digress.

Regarding restaurants and meals, the bar at the hotel was moderately priced, had a reasonable selection and the burger I had was good. The view from the bar area was lovely, overlooking the harbor. Some of my traveling companions had dinner at Windows, the restaurant in the hotel, and came away unimpressed. The hotel is attached to a shopping area, with several other stores and restaurants located just across the street on the harbor. The attached area has a variety of chain fast food eateries, so there are plenty of places to grab something on the go. I did have one excellent meal, our group went to Ruth's Chris for dinner one night. This was the location where my husband and I first acquired our addiction and have been happily scouting out other locations around the US. I strayed from my usual Creme Brulee and had the Pecan Pie for desert, it was truly outstanding.

This wasn't my first trip to the area, so I skipped on the tourist spots this time. Two that are worth noting however are ESPN Zone and the National Aquarium. ESPN Zone is similar to a Dave & Buster's but with more emphasis on the sports theme, including TV's with nearly every game on the planet blaring at you. Not my sort of place, but popular enough to mention, plus the building is architecturally interesting. The National Aquarium is well worth visiting, it's one of the nicest I can recall seeing in my travels. I suspect it's as close to literally swimming with the creatures of the sea as you can get and not wear scuba gear. My last visit there was at least 4 years ago, but I was told it is still just as beautiful.
Photo from the National Aquarium Website, showing a Southern Stingray.

It was a quick trip, an enjoyable one at that, but after being beholden to the schedules of airlines, restaurant reservations and hotel housekeeping I appreciate being able to hop in my car and go on my timetable.

Visiting St. Charles

I was reading a recent article about St. Louis in a local newspaper and it made me think about my last visit to the area. The article encouraged the reader to realize there are things other than ball games in the area. There's a professional sports team there? Really? I must have forgotten...

For this trip, I was traveling with my parents and husband and we stayed in St. Charles, Missouri, located just across the Missouri River. It's a charming town that has a wonderful riverfront district full of unique shops and restaurants. The area has a historical feel without being overtly a tourist trap. A casual stroll down the sidewalks of Main Street will leave you relaxed and not absorb every dime from your wallet.

When it's time to dine you'll find a large range of choices, and we weren't disappointed with any meal. We had dinner at Lewis & Clark's the first night; the view and atmosphere was excellent, the food was good but not worth noting. Also during the trip we had lunch at Mother-In-Law House, which had great outdoor seating and very good sandwiches. The best meal of the trip was at Little Hills Winery Restaurant, which was fantastic. The chicken and Brie is a house specialty and worth the calories, the chicken nachos are also delicious, and portions are generous enough to share. If you're looking for the night scene, there's a number of small pubs and coffee houses with live bands to tap your toes to well into the night.

I was very pleased with our hotel accommodations. We stayed at the Country Inns & Suites, and I've often paid far more for far less of a hotel. The hotel is situated at one end of the historical district, within a short walk of the shops. Some parking is covered, and a full hot breakfast is included daily. The rooms are quiet and clean, with decor that is appropriate for the area.

If you're staying in the St. Charles area, it's worth your time for a day trip to the St. Louis Zoo. Admission is free, but to park within a reasonable distance, plan to pay for parking. The penguin exhibit is exceptionally nice, as is the majority of the zoo. For less crowds, visit on Monday through Thursday; Friday is known as "school day," when area schools arrive for field trips.


Just a little note: I have been pleased with the value for the money when I've stayed at Country Inns & Suites in several other locations. The hotel chain is usually moderately priced but with overall accommodations that are superior in to what you would find at a similarly priced hotel.