A trip to George Washington’s Mount Vernon near Alexandria, Virginia, should be on every family’s “must see” list when visiting the nation’s capital. This family estate is located on the banks of the Potomac River, just 15 minutes south of Washington, DC. Washington considered the plantation to be among the most perfectly situated, and when […]
2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Classic Toyota quality in a modern package
On our recent family trip to Florida, we got to use a luxury 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. A longtime fan of both the dependable Toyota brand and SUVs, this was a wonderful vehicle for our family. Each of us looks for something different in a vehicle, and the Highlander exceeded everyone’s expectations. For me, it’s […]
The Pentagon Memorial: Never forget
On first glance, the Pentagon Memorial in Arlington, Virginia hardly seems to make a statement, especially when compared to the profound impact these terrorist attacks had on our nation. Certainly, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City is more grand. The Pentagon Memorial doesn’t have a large footprint, yet… As I walked up […]
Pentagon tours: What you need to know
The Pentagon, the largest low-rise office building in the world, is actually located in Arlington, VA just outside of Washington. An imposing structure, the Pentagon is easily visible from the highway, Arlington National Cemetery and Washington, DC. Headquarters for the US Department of Defense, the Pentagon is so large that the Capitol Building could fit […]
DC Metro: A beginner’s guide
Growing up in a small town, and claiming small towns as home most of my life, I have always found metro systems and subways intimidating. But, on a trip to Washington back in 2004, I decided enough was enough. I was going to tackle the DC Metro. And not only that, I was going to […]
NCMA: Family friendly museum and art park
I woke up last Thursday and checked the weather (I’m a weather bug wannabe). The forecast said sunny and 70 — not too shabby for the last day of November! With an amazing day on tap, I decided to visit the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). The North Carolina Museum of Art has a […]
The George Washington Grand Hotel: Location, location, location
Visiting the historic town of Winchester, Virginia earlier this year, I got to stay at the luxurious George Washington Grand Hotel, a Wyndham Grand property. In the heart of downtown, it’s convenient to Old Town Winchester — the city’s historic walking mall. But, the hotel itself is a destination — with spacious, comfortable rooms, an […]
Celebrating Culture: NC’s Chinese Lantern Festival
Our daughter is Chinese by birth. Until recently she has not wanted to explore the heritage of her homeland. While we incorporate some Chinese culture into our lives, we never pushed her to go further than she wants. This year, she has been asking more about China and Chinese culture. When I was provided the […]
Holmes Medical Museum: Step back in time with FREE download for kids
In Foley, Alabama, deep in the heart of the south, discover the Holmes Medical Museum. The museum, housed in Baldwin County’s first hospital, which operated on the second floor above the general store of that era. The hospital was active from 1936-1958 and served all the people of the region. Dr. Sibley Holmes was the […]
Forget pumpkin! Make mine maple! (cookie recipe)
Pumpkin spice latte might be the social media darling of October and November. But, it’s spot at the top of the fall flavor world may be coming to an end. And maple is to blame! Personally, I’m not a big pumpkin spice latte fan. I like pumpkin pie, pumpkin rolls, and even pumpkin cheesecake. But, […]