tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13436775074375267412024-03-04T21:12:05.902-08:00Stamp in My PassportStamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.comBlogger465125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-43627945288288440412015-10-05T02:30:00.000-07:002015-10-05T02:30:02.730-07:00Salzburg and the Lake District<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJq41G85Jl9cDnZcAb1gIDMBiaGf7OJK2IixgPulJvcngD7UIJPVqp9BEc4fENdr8h3ThWGlcvSkHaIxNAPDNr9k3KlK2ytqWA7nx-Co-zsD-S-hrHlWoG3LX-xsiL4oW50ShAuTSl9DQR/s1600/2015-09-09+16.21.10+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJq41G85Jl9cDnZcAb1gIDMBiaGf7OJK2IixgPulJvcngD7UIJPVqp9BEc4fENdr8h3ThWGlcvSkHaIxNAPDNr9k3KlK2ytqWA7nx-Co-zsD-S-hrHlWoG3LX-xsiL4oW50ShAuTSl9DQR/s1600/2015-09-09+16.21.10+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Salzburg was the next stop on our tour through Bavaria. Like most tourists, the main draw of Salzburg was the Sound of Music tour to have an excuse to have sing along with 100+ adults and it did not disappoint. Before meeting the tour group, we stopped in a cafe for a pastry and coffee and I immediately knew that Austrian coffee was much better than whatever we had been drinking in Munich. I even made friends with two retired gentlemen sitting besides up. On the trip I realized that living in Florida was an easy conversation starter because it is one of the few states that most have heard of or have even been too (hello Orlando, Miami and West Palm) and suprisingly people had heard of Tallahassee which blew my mind. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And then we were off on our morning bus ride through town and the Lake District with stops to see the Abbey, the house(s) used in the film and the church from the wedding scene. The Lake District was unbelievably quaint and surrounded by mountains in all directions. Apfel strudle and coffee made for the perfect pick me up in Mondsee. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Once we returned to Salzburg, after touring the gardens, we walked to the city center for a quick walking tour. I loved how the city was set up in squares and you could wander from one to the next getting lost in the maze. Snacks along the way included my first currywurst of the trip and a stop at the Augustiner beer hall to end the day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
There were a lot of tourists in Salzburg and most were in large tour groups which were hard to maneuver around. Also, walking is pretty much the only way to get around Salzburg so by the early afternoon my feet were not happy. Samantha and I took the train up to the top of the fortress to take in the views, which was well worth the cost. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlF0mG5mx05P2yKRmbA-ajKUm7icYOkDf8cHCKEBNuhD6vVkWeVkx5Go87zFtabVaDLy5kudKKniaMNteJQTR05Jk_N0ifLh2j3270Iq3Vsv1wPuD7OfuKjE3Gm6v3DBtYnkyXEwt5H7hs/s1600/2015-09-09+09.35.38+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlF0mG5mx05P2yKRmbA-ajKUm7icYOkDf8cHCKEBNuhD6vVkWeVkx5Go87zFtabVaDLy5kudKKniaMNteJQTR05Jk_N0ifLh2j3270Iq3Vsv1wPuD7OfuKjE3Gm6v3DBtYnkyXEwt5H7hs/s1600/2015-09-09+09.35.38+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIutBoqvLtTT_xEVLM-o-nXWyiUEQSjLcsRIc_13KpdqTDl3GApbp9AN7y5JR6kxeJkAYaADgpy0d1PAtLI5mOScnFDEmh2N-sqkJWsaQvJ-LcSrtrT9dGQj0HpixSOKvGmpXuZoVbchbY/s1600/2015-09-09+10.05.19+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIutBoqvLtTT_xEVLM-o-nXWyiUEQSjLcsRIc_13KpdqTDl3GApbp9AN7y5JR6kxeJkAYaADgpy0d1PAtLI5mOScnFDEmh2N-sqkJWsaQvJ-LcSrtrT9dGQj0HpixSOKvGmpXuZoVbchbY/s1600/2015-09-09+10.05.19+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWSj2dJG8hVQqZ4dpxv2kkcG7ZdBnpS7jIwyy6Y6ySkkdNH0b0YT1orQrQT4K_-KJODN1tlkQntPVXoHvcMaypp4ZvLXzr16vVGqb6PBVU1sHQKCmujEiAM2_PGt2OuTF3bZ-aXrqAVwK/s1600/2015-09-09+10.14.57+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWSj2dJG8hVQqZ4dpxv2kkcG7ZdBnpS7jIwyy6Y6ySkkdNH0b0YT1orQrQT4K_-KJODN1tlkQntPVXoHvcMaypp4ZvLXzr16vVGqb6PBVU1sHQKCmujEiAM2_PGt2OuTF3bZ-aXrqAVwK/s1600/2015-09-09+10.14.57+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjQvWQDPsYPwVMw2-apeo9xWy0FUBbK6FIW8y2PttXV-MGUeoslPyCPodAHHalu-6NvPevAY5Ji_iHrsnRxqJE6UiAjQ9olR_X3CQMONCUX7dXkOAiYeSe_z2LUnBqx_rdG2YKki7eFoX/s1600/2015-09-09+11.02.57+HDR-1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjQvWQDPsYPwVMw2-apeo9xWy0FUBbK6FIW8y2PttXV-MGUeoslPyCPodAHHalu-6NvPevAY5Ji_iHrsnRxqJE6UiAjQ9olR_X3CQMONCUX7dXkOAiYeSe_z2LUnBqx_rdG2YKki7eFoX/s1600/2015-09-09+11.02.57+HDR-1+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0CNNuaHIMFCCwf-im832DCm_MEQBQ1v6ZnOp0a_I7nl2cVQkTlA_MA-vRi5ec44qfggoJGodoSxnHVfYIUM_u9u_il39tGSd8fZJVoXcqwz4T1Gyp5RFngWyLfqiZ6wUa-QHeqbjbQow/s1600/2015-09-09+11.31.58+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0CNNuaHIMFCCwf-im832DCm_MEQBQ1v6ZnOp0a_I7nl2cVQkTlA_MA-vRi5ec44qfggoJGodoSxnHVfYIUM_u9u_il39tGSd8fZJVoXcqwz4T1Gyp5RFngWyLfqiZ6wUa-QHeqbjbQow/s1600/2015-09-09+11.31.58+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopqiSZjazPRuB_GiX6X89dwnZoWEu-tssLVvo2jjJe1xGIEqNGJRsj3sQ_ZTgl3Ov1pC5Zik0axebNLhIQSP2arG4RYhCbH2R9TsYsQIuMXDCNEWJOpz3V3tdZKuU8P8RTHi8ShP6BPwi/s1600/2015-09-09+11.57.32-1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopqiSZjazPRuB_GiX6X89dwnZoWEu-tssLVvo2jjJe1xGIEqNGJRsj3sQ_ZTgl3Ov1pC5Zik0axebNLhIQSP2arG4RYhCbH2R9TsYsQIuMXDCNEWJOpz3V3tdZKuU8P8RTHi8ShP6BPwi/s1600/2015-09-09+11.57.32-1+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-Dfpb0i-4ckOKtqLJMTrQpJOP1E-m0OBTqCv3F8ViF2T1L7nMahyU-DKnNagN_wxRNHCPBMn1He243M1RFrMAXGjw_vyJ8iE2VQv10oAr4YABdIFfQB1MGpDOu1lDSKnlXAFOrS1mg82/s1600/2015-09-09+12.22.12+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-Dfpb0i-4ckOKtqLJMTrQpJOP1E-m0OBTqCv3F8ViF2T1L7nMahyU-DKnNagN_wxRNHCPBMn1He243M1RFrMAXGjw_vyJ8iE2VQv10oAr4YABdIFfQB1MGpDOu1lDSKnlXAFOrS1mg82/s1600/2015-09-09+12.22.12+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Dm3_bgbhkInZMrQgJynpDmyNvmYFArNtiI0ILDMscqJ0JHHSM7fmgrQpQ47YvL1kH5PBehupWO_agbRczN9GboeeljarjrT0BqDAADYqHgfBLR4kuxaUXiT3ANtxieXyEaswoFrUFYAK/s1600/2015-09-09+12.23.11+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Dm3_bgbhkInZMrQgJynpDmyNvmYFArNtiI0ILDMscqJ0JHHSM7fmgrQpQ47YvL1kH5PBehupWO_agbRczN9GboeeljarjrT0BqDAADYqHgfBLR4kuxaUXiT3ANtxieXyEaswoFrUFYAK/s1600/2015-09-09+12.23.11+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlkqB4Lk5m_njJjZzlz_SnLVkw5PLL8HQM8fYb54NF2V72kjaTnzOBGag4IChU9tSZQkE5E5VWZ3QPD6uG6JnbCLfElV8ditBU5boqmbaCghiRms2ECiexnTNV_RyVCh5Fpsz8KEf9wtR/s1600/2015-09-09+13.16.33+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlkqB4Lk5m_njJjZzlz_SnLVkw5PLL8HQM8fYb54NF2V72kjaTnzOBGag4IChU9tSZQkE5E5VWZ3QPD6uG6JnbCLfElV8ditBU5boqmbaCghiRms2ECiexnTNV_RyVCh5Fpsz8KEf9wtR/s1600/2015-09-09+13.16.33+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAEtdRFi3DRAYVv3TBAaYI6Hq4c8SGu0hGUTbuzkVUdOQGSLPOMZ7mOPu_rVme3yqlh11QfXnTf3MCf5KZG_NCQ1maRZMQ3jwGIVeFa6x-qHdv_v3Yk1QXwF01qGk-RzGVQmyemW_oPYs-/s1600/2015-09-09+13.21.24+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAEtdRFi3DRAYVv3TBAaYI6Hq4c8SGu0hGUTbuzkVUdOQGSLPOMZ7mOPu_rVme3yqlh11QfXnTf3MCf5KZG_NCQ1maRZMQ3jwGIVeFa6x-qHdv_v3Yk1QXwF01qGk-RzGVQmyemW_oPYs-/s1600/2015-09-09+13.21.24+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0CWv73P759uNMrRAJvKgkWD4WmzqQ3KYdS68wmCxKNU8MOFQVq7tSoLblmlY7eVBGUtSxrdIWLBgmsiVU4usl1Dt-61eamfX3ptX1umBwg0sGW6iMH5QEsdQlaG7ehUcCKYdeSTjAH8c/s1600/2015-09-09+13.23.17+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0CWv73P759uNMrRAJvKgkWD4WmzqQ3KYdS68wmCxKNU8MOFQVq7tSoLblmlY7eVBGUtSxrdIWLBgmsiVU4usl1Dt-61eamfX3ptX1umBwg0sGW6iMH5QEsdQlaG7ehUcCKYdeSTjAH8c/s1600/2015-09-09+13.23.17+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbp4sEUnYbPIEKT2KqcUkhTrgTA8jaxjjjLjdpT8RgKMYvhwmfUj5MSvx7qg5MUmcIz7MoLAbUEdFAaYaHlJdvo9026P4HOcNYXDHtYWP94pgzdjxrK00xQHMeWglhs8KA_MXHCeDGma_/s1600/2015-09-09+15.45.46+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbp4sEUnYbPIEKT2KqcUkhTrgTA8jaxjjjLjdpT8RgKMYvhwmfUj5MSvx7qg5MUmcIz7MoLAbUEdFAaYaHlJdvo9026P4HOcNYXDHtYWP94pgzdjxrK00xQHMeWglhs8KA_MXHCeDGma_/s1600/2015-09-09+15.45.46+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDM8vypJ7XTk3mA30lOXdXWjbCOaMhkSPXG1zzYCk4TlWc6vOEy0UE9_TQgx0jF1ToVi5AQmX6agRykLxxr9KVLs28c5a1bhqhFKl2KWZ3LJk-65DqozBMcPHkG3Pc8x4urYZ903cBdrOS/s1600/2015-09-09+15.59.02+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDM8vypJ7XTk3mA30lOXdXWjbCOaMhkSPXG1zzYCk4TlWc6vOEy0UE9_TQgx0jF1ToVi5AQmX6agRykLxxr9KVLs28c5a1bhqhFKl2KWZ3LJk-65DqozBMcPHkG3Pc8x4urYZ903cBdrOS/s1600/2015-09-09+15.59.02+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9yFxnbEe5VHxY69YN6tmPrN-NRJfS-qMy_brhwE985ogGG9KC2gTkKjtFEnkANJYHYkvYaMXeZydt2Ra5virnzv-0LtFtJoI7a2gdpFfpGanDRnO3YlEgXT0AsRLggcVqHTvXX9dLZAE/s1600/2015-09-09+16.06.58+copy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9yFxnbEe5VHxY69YN6tmPrN-NRJfS-qMy_brhwE985ogGG9KC2gTkKjtFEnkANJYHYkvYaMXeZydt2Ra5virnzv-0LtFtJoI7a2gdpFfpGanDRnO3YlEgXT0AsRLggcVqHTvXX9dLZAE/s1600/2015-09-09+16.06.58+copy+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEyDCIcdih3pAv6L8_lxJeaLXr7OPdb6DjZlJz7XLT_EIDUKV0U6XhTujJlqldizxUCYygpnMokp9mVG8RDgF5-4f5djIMDafyOfIn8tqGroyhpDa6cwEbPYu5nIqyb9ALIYwqnBNNBkv/s1600/2015-09-09+16.20.55-1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEyDCIcdih3pAv6L8_lxJeaLXr7OPdb6DjZlJz7XLT_EIDUKV0U6XhTujJlqldizxUCYygpnMokp9mVG8RDgF5-4f5djIMDafyOfIn8tqGroyhpDa6cwEbPYu5nIqyb9ALIYwqnBNNBkv/s1600/2015-09-09+16.20.55-1+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-40279257960666801382015-09-21T02:30:00.000-07:002015-09-21T02:30:00.498-07:00Munich and Regensburg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaPqs1Rj-u7Q27p_gF7CSK1tIdZWG4VKKpVosvOR3gAo4Hh0ZPvKM7ipjFkCsMhBq3YRVn6fl9SHecvSUruBR_T57AI0cJUp1RpJMfjl-6URkK5pIbCOBZekEsqeCm5Tx4CeQgwvxnAFf/s1600/2015-09-08+10.36.44+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaPqs1Rj-u7Q27p_gF7CSK1tIdZWG4VKKpVosvOR3gAo4Hh0ZPvKM7ipjFkCsMhBq3YRVn6fl9SHecvSUruBR_T57AI0cJUp1RpJMfjl-6URkK5pIbCOBZekEsqeCm5Tx4CeQgwvxnAFf/s1600/2015-09-08+10.36.44+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Looking back on my week-long trip to Germany and Austria, I am still amazed by how much I was able to fit into one week. I don't think I could have kept up the same pace for another week, but it would have been nice to have more time to explore the region. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYrdWMkils5wEZLf57tfxKJp4Yd9UlrxGN92pQG3nHtedtdSkVdcyzthPLe88hxhmA-T0kGezjwLXZsZ-9hIYUSISo71QHgFkAriJVNd4yAH-fO3txXqj746UbB7fX4_PnJpJOPHV2jwO/s1600/IMG_0463+W.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYrdWMkils5wEZLf57tfxKJp4Yd9UlrxGN92pQG3nHtedtdSkVdcyzthPLe88hxhmA-T0kGezjwLXZsZ-9hIYUSISo71QHgFkAriJVNd4yAH-fO3txXqj746UbB7fX4_PnJpJOPHV2jwO/s1600/IMG_0463+W.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After landing and dropping our bags off at our Airbnb (we stayed in <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1405310" target="_blank">this flat </a>for reference and I can't recommend it enough!) we grabbed a sandwich in the train station and visited Dachau since many of the other sites were not open on Sundays. I had mixed feelings about beginning the trip with Dachau since I knew that it would weigh heavy on my heart. Seeing the camp in person helped bring to life the Holocaust history and literature lessons in high school and nothing can quite prepare you for it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqgoqimhaVqiQM9yGkTq9JXT3TRBcDF3shuZNpaFIYz38xCje2Y-p2T5j24l78hmZ7RpD4y7sz_89GAUrCP2GTtTJ7cJMX5_04GbUo6b2Vbgx-kuLuJN466Xh1fp3XAiS4RynncEthfNw/s1600/IMG_0464+W.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqgoqimhaVqiQM9yGkTq9JXT3TRBcDF3shuZNpaFIYz38xCje2Y-p2T5j24l78hmZ7RpD4y7sz_89GAUrCP2GTtTJ7cJMX5_04GbUo6b2Vbgx-kuLuJN466Xh1fp3XAiS4RynncEthfNw/s1600/IMG_0464+W.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After we arrived back in Munich, we had dinner at <a href="http://www.giesinger-garten.de/index.php/giesingergarten_lokal_de.html" target="_blank">Geisinger Garten</a>, a neighborhood Bavarian restaurant, at the recommendation of our Airbnb host and it did not disappoint. It was the first of many meals of pork, dumplings, pickled veggies and beer to come for the week. And I didn't hate it one bit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday was spent on a day trip to the medieval town of Regensburg, about 2.5 hours northeast of Munich. It was just Samantha and I and a Canadian couple along with our tour guide. The village was unique in that all within about ten minutes you could see part of the Roman wall, a 14th century cathedral and Zara. The town center, with its narrow lanes of pastel-colored buildings, reminded me a lot of Nice. One of the highlights of the day was eating lunch at <a href="http://www.wurstkuchl.de/tavern.html" target="_blank">Wurstkuchl</a>, the oldest sausage stand in the world. They've had 500 years to perfect sausage, sauerkraut and sweet mustard. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCf-KrpSihVW-rcj48El3YPdOuV-rTjbNtLHwBfU9tPVZPJJ82OJ9eE_hLw_8qHEp9DKz4Zh_gjc30pXUG31x9OW2EWOEe-IKSAbbKriBTN3SiSJHNbVcVFBmb1tEDyM3X_gcdfrAMHoN/s1600/2015-09-07+14.53.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCf-KrpSihVW-rcj48El3YPdOuV-rTjbNtLHwBfU9tPVZPJJ82OJ9eE_hLw_8qHEp9DKz4Zh_gjc30pXUG31x9OW2EWOEe-IKSAbbKriBTN3SiSJHNbVcVFBmb1tEDyM3X_gcdfrAMHoN/s1600/2015-09-07+14.53.36.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn_AgNRA47vYU5FgFegJhswTamATeZdptSQ1GEEklRT-BOxJiDLp1s4q0PFespMVdPo6qV-oVCAGyqS3-yrSbbDLVULm_tiH5ZjNUFy0jszWoXIr8kSySImguQebZQbATce3Aa_bhPOcz/s1600/2015-09-07+13.15.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn_AgNRA47vYU5FgFegJhswTamATeZdptSQ1GEEklRT-BOxJiDLp1s4q0PFespMVdPo6qV-oVCAGyqS3-yrSbbDLVULm_tiH5ZjNUFy0jszWoXIr8kSySImguQebZQbATce3Aa_bhPOcz/s1600/2015-09-07+13.15.48.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5npxaUVBq6eM33QECuJrl_xv8651yoZc0gS27zY0uuQ8g9QyEZgpw8DYiGn7xYQbZfpPLAwZqO-dcf4o7R8ABG_oQ3w-yB4qlmDlrvVOv3pUfdYvasdaz7XrH8ftb1_TNzHdxcdKa2Ym/s1600/2015-09-07+12.56.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5npxaUVBq6eM33QECuJrl_xv8651yoZc0gS27zY0uuQ8g9QyEZgpw8DYiGn7xYQbZfpPLAwZqO-dcf4o7R8ABG_oQ3w-yB4qlmDlrvVOv3pUfdYvasdaz7XrH8ftb1_TNzHdxcdKa2Ym/s1600/2015-09-07+12.56.47.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s1kYbjRiPM2hVJpABG94dIcjcLBafd-DL6hitijJMIwGWd3RC51t0SS1axOQj1KrPbZCw_3-U-X7mzDo9Lrkls3CxKSqVxGJFA7d8KSiSqUPv7gm3Dxs0sBqL5mxpy4W7Ra0BLPtFgjC/s1600/2015-09-07+14.24.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s1kYbjRiPM2hVJpABG94dIcjcLBafd-DL6hitijJMIwGWd3RC51t0SS1axOQj1KrPbZCw_3-U-X7mzDo9Lrkls3CxKSqVxGJFA7d8KSiSqUPv7gm3Dxs0sBqL5mxpy4W7Ra0BLPtFgjC/s1600/2015-09-07+14.24.30.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWM_f4P8pO5xxULHpstQlY8EDbN63JgYkoCHThq6F22H9Y6fY1IP_CwnB5MOZTyul2BIh4rZbyH_2cVZB7X7fljeHTyP7l9VIQG66LHlwi4-8HGZbOfTisiqpYPQDMjnMlE5o2OuXuxE-/s1600/2015-09-07+14.36.23+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWM_f4P8pO5xxULHpstQlY8EDbN63JgYkoCHThq6F22H9Y6fY1IP_CwnB5MOZTyul2BIh4rZbyH_2cVZB7X7fljeHTyP7l9VIQG66LHlwi4-8HGZbOfTisiqpYPQDMjnMlE5o2OuXuxE-/s1600/2015-09-07+14.36.23+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday was our last day in Munich before we caught a late afternoon train to Salzburg. In each city, we opted to do the Rick Steves Walking Tour on his Radio Europe app. If you like going at your own pace, I would highly recommend them. They were a great way to get aquainted with the city center and know where museums or sites are to revisit and explore more indepth. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The walking tour took about 3-4 hours (with stops for snacks at 3 hour intervals of course) and took us by Marienplatz, St. Peter's Church, Viktualienmarkt, Asam Church, Hofbrauhaus, Residenz, Hofgarten and Englischer Garten to name a few. From many of the blogs I read in preparing for the trip, the consensus was that Munich was a fantastic hub to take day trips to Bavaria from, but didn't require much time in itself for exploration. I would agree with that. It would have been nice to have had a full day to not feel as rushed. Although we did end up dozing off on a park bench in the English Garden before heading back to the train station, so perhaps I couldn't have lasted on my feet all day after all. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVls0gL1vng_SNBEPFPFe8emgvje9NA1PXwz80tW6A5i14624R0dwKc_PBDr8VcO5NdrvrcF_uUvUGIsKM7bF7VbKF0c1iuiN_KF3QONQjUcCO4WgY6dgtW3LyQW-So2SJZ8YVVR1-vIaG/s1600/2015-09-08+09.41.00+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVls0gL1vng_SNBEPFPFe8emgvje9NA1PXwz80tW6A5i14624R0dwKc_PBDr8VcO5NdrvrcF_uUvUGIsKM7bF7VbKF0c1iuiN_KF3QONQjUcCO4WgY6dgtW3LyQW-So2SJZ8YVVR1-vIaG/s1600/2015-09-08+09.41.00+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdISc2eWXFf3e71JYYHb_6XX-qAaFOPvhIEmvPT3144xzJyfSkJlzhi0tYG-66A80n5dsZ0QFwsFtiMK20LRdJ2i71IS88dUfI5sx4Q5H-gUJZowvbDov_TGB9IkosejdhZb_IDkDSNdoQ/s1600/2015-09-08+09.51.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdISc2eWXFf3e71JYYHb_6XX-qAaFOPvhIEmvPT3144xzJyfSkJlzhi0tYG-66A80n5dsZ0QFwsFtiMK20LRdJ2i71IS88dUfI5sx4Q5H-gUJZowvbDov_TGB9IkosejdhZb_IDkDSNdoQ/s1600/2015-09-08+09.51.02.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLooe7QZoG_rE3le0yp1y8IEDGMkOkQd-qKPRWaM6nBZm8I0ZyiOZkiSwFKoM9yJwbml_Y6SxV93gZeGqLypBVRaNsQf7eF3HTDE9KpI85nBI5f5D8vo5rVzWi_IOj4Pu8u63OSwVAggh-/s1600/2015-09-08+10.04.48+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLooe7QZoG_rE3le0yp1y8IEDGMkOkQd-qKPRWaM6nBZm8I0ZyiOZkiSwFKoM9yJwbml_Y6SxV93gZeGqLypBVRaNsQf7eF3HTDE9KpI85nBI5f5D8vo5rVzWi_IOj4Pu8u63OSwVAggh-/s1600/2015-09-08+10.04.48+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zw89lOQeU6VFSN1WUAUF0CqhUZbWakpr3jPmaUma8VN0AouwuWF7AE4w2k3_vq5WXpnLqerRXenmEd7nWaKdmgC33lmLPqoq964oA53eBbKF2Aj0PxhO4Qf4c_9bp-P2FJIGX-Pf-Ltr/s1600/2015-09-08+10.05.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBzQB22UAMiLrbOVAnHhdVORxgWTBqlVSdpsExGcB3onka0b_DWdkwH9azlfIhinp2JXxfAP6TzDobMNWC6ynTZBw7xJUjLIDWn5R66DnnmXv-8fmeplFm0o9aUtWCUayg5GHmUFlgFIw/s1600/2015-09-08+10.59.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBzQB22UAMiLrbOVAnHhdVORxgWTBqlVSdpsExGcB3onka0b_DWdkwH9azlfIhinp2JXxfAP6TzDobMNWC6ynTZBw7xJUjLIDWn5R66DnnmXv-8fmeplFm0o9aUtWCUayg5GHmUFlgFIw/s1600/2015-09-08+10.59.56.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zw89lOQeU6VFSN1WUAUF0CqhUZbWakpr3jPmaUma8VN0AouwuWF7AE4w2k3_vq5WXpnLqerRXenmEd7nWaKdmgC33lmLPqoq964oA53eBbKF2Aj0PxhO4Qf4c_9bp-P2FJIGX-Pf-Ltr/s1600/2015-09-08+10.05.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zw89lOQeU6VFSN1WUAUF0CqhUZbWakpr3jPmaUma8VN0AouwuWF7AE4w2k3_vq5WXpnLqerRXenmEd7nWaKdmgC33lmLPqoq964oA53eBbKF2Aj0PxhO4Qf4c_9bp-P2FJIGX-Pf-Ltr/s1600/2015-09-08+10.05.30.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Nsv2NjrQe4tqO1I_QLQ2blbpRFGMOVtrpzbYceE01ip4cvhZFJhdI0CME-QEWrMBgVETqn2hx2QC4P88b9-xi-XnbcT7ZCJ6LhqIv0jt9MQRFTgWX6XwQTbT-MZ4SDi8_WUl3eu8RWTi/s1600/2015-09-08+10.34.42+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Nsv2NjrQe4tqO1I_QLQ2blbpRFGMOVtrpzbYceE01ip4cvhZFJhdI0CME-QEWrMBgVETqn2hx2QC4P88b9-xi-XnbcT7ZCJ6LhqIv0jt9MQRFTgWX6XwQTbT-MZ4SDi8_WUl3eu8RWTi/s1600/2015-09-08+10.34.42+HDR.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMDBTCC8QwQG1lC22WBIyUqNTlrR-UWUri9FPONawRPQ79_XFK6doqlRipSqRiqvINTVtBgxLETFLMUrlduFmgrkM_bcG87RcB1ukOnWrNZTmgCst6iyIPLz9KuzXWxNtNEXJ53Vv7SO9/s1600/2015-09-08+10.36.49+HDR+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMDBTCC8QwQG1lC22WBIyUqNTlrR-UWUri9FPONawRPQ79_XFK6doqlRipSqRiqvINTVtBgxLETFLMUrlduFmgrkM_bcG87RcB1ukOnWrNZTmgCst6iyIPLz9KuzXWxNtNEXJ53Vv7SO9/s1600/2015-09-08+10.36.49+HDR+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhponqcEAP_5xKOGYO5z121Tfpq0DWFiEuCTpDe0UYvLQ9sd9bogp-z5ypK6UZeerzw-mQSn0yHdDYfZ-AXhoU5kWD_i6beEFkF7t416MWllft0ImerEPwcV-Xs7zMd5sm2YnfuijXDss96/s1600/2015-09-08+11.30.49+copy+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhponqcEAP_5xKOGYO5z121Tfpq0DWFiEuCTpDe0UYvLQ9sd9bogp-z5ypK6UZeerzw-mQSn0yHdDYfZ-AXhoU5kWD_i6beEFkF7t416MWllft0ImerEPwcV-Xs7zMd5sm2YnfuijXDss96/s1600/2015-09-08+11.30.49+copy+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8KJSNqrChjIcL2G6PMyVS9XcF1s-qBP81GJZsMWvGimXnO8x67S8fAaZCUwz-U8Prp-vZLmR1YEIweqO4lkG7fxV2CQ2ROhX-Pi8_s1fpKjrlkviNYshaVCDU1_X2hHAKhJfNJLlOJnk/s1600/2015-09-08+13.34.13+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8KJSNqrChjIcL2G6PMyVS9XcF1s-qBP81GJZsMWvGimXnO8x67S8fAaZCUwz-U8Prp-vZLmR1YEIweqO4lkG7fxV2CQ2ROhX-Pi8_s1fpKjrlkviNYshaVCDU1_X2hHAKhJfNJLlOJnk/s1600/2015-09-08+13.34.13+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39FlS6ku1yACBRxjLVXPvn8co2slMV9RELBPzniASdG5_3oZBxzMvNVyDV9uPlIMWEoa45PbRHLlHuFX8t3hm_bXsbidZjnNXBjCkHu5ihZyhlH8HD5PvKZNdVyM0jIYwGk3NMjbg6gKl/s1600/2015-09-08+14.06.55-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39FlS6ku1yACBRxjLVXPvn8co2slMV9RELBPzniASdG5_3oZBxzMvNVyDV9uPlIMWEoa45PbRHLlHuFX8t3hm_bXsbidZjnNXBjCkHu5ihZyhlH8HD5PvKZNdVyM0jIYwGk3NMjbg6gKl/s1600/2015-09-08+14.06.55-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlBWrihQcatuSRMlIUvpETl3mneCV-sPN2S4uDAC8SX6n7UfB3XkitBSFgnLc_pFSPvIOFiz_ngQmxOVGFkxIFtsvp4pZgT2H7EIxUIBc-Y_OkVqx3-LTFQfTugUUnQIMKihgi9WcYj_j/s1600/dianatemple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlBWrihQcatuSRMlIUvpETl3mneCV-sPN2S4uDAC8SX6n7UfB3XkitBSFgnLc_pFSPvIOFiz_ngQmxOVGFkxIFtsvp4pZgT2H7EIxUIBc-Y_OkVqx3-LTFQfTugUUnQIMKihgi9WcYj_j/s1600/dianatemple.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I would like to end this semi-brief recap of my trip with a warning to never fly United internationally. About halfway into the 9 hour flight, after the dinner service and the lights were turned off, I had a brief moment I didn't think I would be able to make it through the remainder of the flight. I know that sounds awfully dramatic, but coach was like a cattle car, especially when the person in front of you decides to recline their seat and there were only four in-flight movies to choose from so don't count on that being a distraction. End rant.</i></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-68083680502295538612015-09-05T02:51:00.002-07:002015-09-05T02:51:59.349-07:00Auf Wiedersehen!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEily6aOkpBlkpdQ-eGeR3NHwLROC6d5vi6TGrS-nx69ILTgwgIwp9P-EDCSDWon_syTlCVDG1yGBGvMHoc0aSCGHVA01GD2TFVXIcyqoEgnpyaD9n-2exefPAxoJ8IQ2Q9N7GwUa7AzQ45h/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEily6aOkpBlkpdQ-eGeR3NHwLROC6d5vi6TGrS-nx69ILTgwgIwp9P-EDCSDWon_syTlCVDG1yGBGvMHoc0aSCGHVA01GD2TFVXIcyqoEgnpyaD9n-2exefPAxoJ8IQ2Q9N7GwUa7AzQ45h/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Today's the day! After a year of dreaming and Google hangout planning sessions, Samantha and I are off on our Bavarian adventure. You can follow along on Instagram <a href="http://www.instagram.com/jesskboyd" target="_blank">@jesskboyd</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thesamanthatosh" target="_blank">@thesamanthatosh</a>.Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-63734014201976927582015-08-31T02:30:00.000-07:002015-08-31T02:30:00.375-07:00A Little Life Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpwFCSluEk29RUK6jnnPQ4dix5ewJ-0bAAaNj5W5LIxM1gUsVGi0rnKJPtetORjxspZjm3P7yroB_3jEtJVCPNS3zV0b3RM6qgGnvpzD0fPwSkm3MODZlbZoHF74GWne48Ec33vUXPS_E/s1600/just-go-picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpwFCSluEk29RUK6jnnPQ4dix5ewJ-0bAAaNj5W5LIxM1gUsVGi0rnKJPtetORjxspZjm3P7yroB_3jEtJVCPNS3zV0b3RM6qgGnvpzD0fPwSkm3MODZlbZoHF74GWne48Ec33vUXPS_E/s1600/just-go-picture.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Samantha and I leave for our week-long adventure in Germany and Austria on Saturday. We've been planning and dreaming about this trip in some form or fashion since graduation two years ago. The destination changed several times along the way and for the past year we have been working out all of the details and brushing up on our Hapsburg history. Part of the thrill of traveling for me is planning because extends the excitement a little longer. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During our semester abroad, we did little planning outside of picking our favorite destinations and booking a place to stay. Other than that, we showed up, wandered around, explored, and did things as we stumbled upon them. Which was fine. But other than finding every gelato stand in Venice, I feel like I may have missed out a little or didn't fully appreciate what I was looking at because I had zero historical or cultural context for the area. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the most part, this will not be one of those trips. I would like to leave feeling like I saw and did everything I wanted to and it would be ok if I never made it back for a second visit. You can follow along on Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/jesskboyd/" target="_blank">@jesskboyd</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In other life news, I got a new job! This week will be the last at my current job, next week I'm on vacation, and then I start at my new agency right after I return. Needless to say, the next month will be chaotic. But in an exciting way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My newsfeed is filled with new moves and adventures. Many of the friends I graduated with are on their second city. At times I love that I've finally started to feel at home. I don't have to use Google maps every time I get in the car. I have my favorite restaurants and coffee shops. I'm comfortable. As nice as that sound, I don't want to grow too settled into a routine where I wake up in five years not realizing where the time has gone.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the time to explore, wander, dream, try new things and see new places. Although I won't <a href="https://vimeo.com/120206922" target="_blank">spend a year biking from Oregon to Patagonia</a>, I want to be conscious of not slipping into a rut simply because it makes me comfortable whether it eventually ends in a move and a leap of faith, or simply mixing it up more at home. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>What do you do when you begin to feel restless staying in one place too long? </i></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-36459524185018609472015-08-13T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-13T04:37:22.913-07:00Floridian Stereotypes that May or May Not Have a Hint of Truth<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbl34QKt4o9s6IwZ4Xhg9A6cWMUb3HJfA77J7L5d-uEsZgoJq3iPm6mBNtHJZqfi_moR-D3q2Y8CnZP3AITKhkmr9NpbgrjB-a1dDeTnbyY0zTkEK5oe8-Gr9c2UIWijPoXImPU5Qn9ZC0/s1600/Walt-Disney-World.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbl34QKt4o9s6IwZ4Xhg9A6cWMUb3HJfA77J7L5d-uEsZgoJq3iPm6mBNtHJZqfi_moR-D3q2Y8CnZP3AITKhkmr9NpbgrjB-a1dDeTnbyY0zTkEK5oe8-Gr9c2UIWijPoXImPU5Qn9ZC0/s1600/Walt-Disney-World.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rogersview/6386628009/sizes/l/in/photostream/" target="_blank">Roger Ahlbrand, CC-BY-2.0, via Flickr</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. <b>We all go to Disney World every single weekend. </b>Although it is centrally located in the state, I've yet to go once in the 1.5 years of living here and at $100 per person/per day I don't plan on it anytime soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. <b>And if we happen to not be at the happiest place on earth, we are at the beach. </b>You can be at the coast within an hour or so from most areas of the state and can enjoy a beach day or weekend almost year round to avoid the crowds.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. <b>Flip flops and/or sandals are worn year round. </b>I'm not a fan of the "sweatshirt and sandal" look. Plus I love booties and loafers too much to want to deal with sandals in the fall/winter.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. <b>It is overrun by tourists and snowbirds. </b>This is more true farther south, but there is a sharp increase in northern license plates and RVs between January and May.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. <b>It is a constant vacation. </b>If only. Living in one of the most popular tourist destinations, it's exciting to either plan short trips in-state or find a lesser-known city to enjoy a getaway. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. <b>Coats are required if the temperature dips below 65. </b>And if it hovers around the freezing point during the day, then everyone spirals into a minor panic.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. <b>All of the murder trials covered by HLN are in Florida.</b> Casey Anthony, George Zimmerman, and Michael Dunn to name a few. Nancy Grace should consider relocating from Atlanta to the sunshine state. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. <b>The news is filled with bizarre stories that would only happen here.</b> For example, the <a href="https://twitter.com/_floridaman" target="_blank">Florida Man Twitter handle</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. <b>Alligator sightings are a common, every day occurrence. </b>This is one I try to avoid at all costs. Similar to comparing <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/woman-rants-about-ocean-dangers-because-its-the-sharks-house_559d7a45e4b01c2162a5c207" target="_blank">going into the ocean to going to the shark's house</a>, going to the river/lake/golf course in Florida is similar to going to the alligator's house. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. <b>There is a Publix on every corner. </b>This is one I wish were true and with the amount of new stores opening, it is a real possibility. Publix truly is where shopping is a pleasure. And home of pub subs. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Michelle of The Barefaced Chic</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpzwEo0kEfTibQKwCgNMuYLZvxyClve-T6HqF0kw6Kf2GhkXMt0p1Pn3la2N-WKFPMrzME0niyZFdCmggDHFkShLbR4p_56ErHYa-lmHtNeXncirRoExLNwIp3l5Mq3ksIIHOI_Q-8Qj-/s1600/Michelle+of+The+Barefaced+Chic.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpzwEo0kEfTibQKwCgNMuYLZvxyClve-T6HqF0kw6Kf2GhkXMt0p1Pn3la2N-WKFPMrzME0niyZFdCmggDHFkShLbR4p_56ErHYa-lmHtNeXncirRoExLNwIp3l5Mq3ksIIHOI_Q-8Qj-/s1600/Michelle+of+The+Barefaced+Chic.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebarefacedchic.co.uk/" target="_blank">Blog</a> | <a href="https://instagram.com/barefaced_chic/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Barefaced_Chic" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/barefaced-chic-13243239" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">
<b>Tell us a little about you and your blog. </b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Barefaced Chic is a quirky, imaginative lifestyle blog that offers a slightly wacky sanctuary in a sea of sensibility. Its mission is to bring its a frequent dose of beauty, fashion, lifestyle, health, sound advice and laughs. And, in this sometimes cookie cutter world, the aim of The Barefaced Chic is to be the chocolate, raspberry crème brûlée!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With a no nonsense approach, within the features on this blog, mature women are encouraged to celebrate themselves, love their quirks and feel happy in their own skin: hence The Barefaced Chic.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's creator, Michelle, is a massive advocate of living the life we are meant to live and ageing with attitude!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b>If you could eat only one meal for an extended period of time, what would it be? </b></b></div>
<b>
</b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It would have to be lobster, of seafood of any kind - I think I may have been a mermaid in a former life :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b>Any suggestions for TV shows to binge watch this summer?</b></b></div>
<b>
</b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm not a massive TV watcher, I tend to pop a DVD on when I'm in a 'slob in front of the telly mood'. The last thing I watched was Breaking Bad - I watched it end-to-end one long weekend.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><b>Any upcoming travels/adventures on the horizon? Anywhere you are dying to go? </b></b></div>
<b>
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am incredibly lucky as I travel a huge amount for both business and pleasure. I don't really tend to like the 'norm' so sitting around the pool in the sun is not really my style. For my honeymoon four years ago my hubby and I packed up our MX5 and drove across France, Spain and Portugal with nothing booked. We almost slept in the car a few times, but it was one heck of an adventure. I'd love to do something similar just across Spain, or maybe drive Route 66.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Get to know Michelle more: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.thebarefacedchic.co.uk/life/becoming-the-real-me/" target="_blank">A life post about becoming the real me </a> | <a href="http://www.thebarefacedchic.co.uk/health/10-tips-to-give-up-junk-food-and-eat-a-healthier-diet/" target="_blank">My ten tips on giving up junk food</a> | <a href="http://www.thebarefacedchic.co.uk/fashion/do-you-want-to-build-a-snowman-come-on-lets-go-and-play/" target="_blank">Christmas fashion post</a></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-71743381694515935672015-08-12T04:24:00.001-07:002015-08-20T04:32:50.772-07:00Why Home Offices Shouldn't Be in Close Proximity to Netflix<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-MV25yZIuiB95ziGLBMiGBxoPhyphenhyphenwsMasxbjUSMDmF2J4wPvmso8PU4kz9B71rkZh_PVBK7fjCwDFwwqu9LlpF5MPc6sh1Y2UfxnDnhk0lH0et9ArTYhrQLiYp6HIeAi8o_NNb7hVFasI/s1600/photo+2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-MV25yZIuiB95ziGLBMiGBxoPhyphenhyphenwsMasxbjUSMDmF2J4wPvmso8PU4kz9B71rkZh_PVBK7fjCwDFwwqu9LlpF5MPc6sh1Y2UfxnDnhk0lH0et9ArTYhrQLiYp6HIeAi8o_NNb7hVFasI/s1600/photo+2+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Your workspace can make or break your productivity. Too cluttered with paper and half-thought-out ideas and you may end up abandoning it in favor of another more zen spot. On the other hand, if your desk is too sterile, all inspiration is stifled. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.wework.com/" target="_blank">WeWork</a> inspired this post to discuss the things that I love about my current work space, I started thinking about how my mini alcove is a far cry from the home office of my Pinterest dreams. However, I love the clean, simple lines of the desk and that the space is open and bright. When I first moved in the idea was to keep the surface pristine, however there are now piles of books, notecards, mail and pens stacked in a semi-coherent order over most of it. Note to self: never underestimate the importance of drawers. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6qy12MLU0uzlz2vj6zZfBtMIjYu1nkwxFt8JBNngzg5PIUyvaCsRifdetP0wfAu66DMQmnEoCQGYsdsh4pmrr_7ZY_T1el7t8Wmniij8aCGDhPESvC17igHA9zrL9_4othhFd6w4aHqe/s1600/coffee-table-living-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6qy12MLU0uzlz2vj6zZfBtMIjYu1nkwxFt8JBNngzg5PIUyvaCsRifdetP0wfAu66DMQmnEoCQGYsdsh4pmrr_7ZY_T1el7t8Wmniij8aCGDhPESvC17igHA9zrL9_4othhFd6w4aHqe/s1600/coffee-table-living-room.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although i have a desk and chair, I almost always end up with my laptop sitting on the couch or, if I need to spread out, the dining table. I've thought about if I would be able to work from home. from this apartment. And while i enjoy my space, my bed is only five steps away and so is my TV and Netflix so i think the temptation would be too much. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0BC80lX3swxZedvZNnjRGy86eKPjZQf8h-YHFi0euH1AT5PilkNPHyLkqPttAjX702n0UefwNc6xiQEkTmSEEKnMNNwOqDv6OuYVj_gqrDSr8eVpBbv8uliAfGEra3COgFwTegkWAPeA/s1600/writing-process-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0BC80lX3swxZedvZNnjRGy86eKPjZQf8h-YHFi0euH1AT5PilkNPHyLkqPttAjX702n0UefwNc6xiQEkTmSEEKnMNNwOqDv6OuYVj_gqrDSr8eVpBbv8uliAfGEra3COgFwTegkWAPeA/s1600/writing-process-2.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As much as I love my apartment, I enjoy working away from home. Should I ever decide to take a leap of faith and freelance or start my own business or telecommute for a company, I would look into renting a shared work space, at least a few days a week and especially if it affords a place to meet with clients. WeWork has beautifully designed <a href="https://www.wework.com/locations" target="_blank">co-working locations</a> in major cities across the country designed for startups, freelancers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. Whether you need a place to mix up your routine a couple days a week, or a conference room to host meetings with your growing team, they have something for every up-and-comer. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And if Samantha would get her way and convince me to move to the Lonestar state (not that I don't want to on my own!) then i would definitely consider snagging a seat in the WeWork studio.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gCjAYI8B_dauUHIemky7ZxZJBSJCcEdmyHtxZKFnH2EpjBiPn2K3Pw-iNBTzUbmEQjY9E7Q1KDnR1pWl8h2y0D6RA_XOdUZ-HZnU7lwrKYlgal0-MM8wVhB8IWDBC8eUdbmF8vxTwpQy/s1600/wework-austin-congress-8+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gCjAYI8B_dauUHIemky7ZxZJBSJCcEdmyHtxZKFnH2EpjBiPn2K3Pw-iNBTzUbmEQjY9E7Q1KDnR1pWl8h2y0D6RA_XOdUZ-HZnU7lwrKYlgal0-MM8wVhB8IWDBC8eUdbmF8vxTwpQy/s1600/wework-austin-congress-8+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wework.com/locations/austin/congress" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-4945534800684889512015-08-03T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-03T03:00:06.465-07:00Don't Be the Obnoxious American<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHSKtqgQWvnQWMw6rdXds4lK3VCv4v_SdSUm6cP9C5xSHld5AWOjQ1HH_bCn2571Ynf6IwhxhztVyfWHOyC9sqZgV7q_uduB-qHCwGK48zRJJWiSIIzR2uw6FTd5a7AoPzenCeenTKw1GL/s1600/venice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHSKtqgQWvnQWMw6rdXds4lK3VCv4v_SdSUm6cP9C5xSHld5AWOjQ1HH_bCn2571Ynf6IwhxhztVyfWHOyC9sqZgV7q_uduB-qHCwGK48zRJJWiSIIzR2uw6FTd5a7AoPzenCeenTKw1GL/s1600/venice.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When out of the country, no one wants to be the obnoxious person who has to secretly hope everyone they come in contact with either speaks English or can translate a crude sign language system. Most people have the best intentions to travel equipped with a few key phrases (particularly "do you speak English?") in the language of the land they are visiting. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you are visiting multiple countries on your adventure then the goal becomes much more far fetched. Before traveling from Paris to Italy for spring break, I had just felt comfortable with basic conversational French. The idea of Italian phrases was too much and even common greetings and words that are almost identical in Spanish escaped me. The silver lining of that experience was that a lifetime of eating a American/Italian restaurants sort of prepared me to navigate the menu, which if we're being honest is the most important lesson.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A year ago I had the best of intentions of knowing much more than the basic German for Travelers. But, alas, one month out and I'm doing good to count to ten. Slowly. As the realization began to sink in I frantically started flying through Duolingo lessons and daily Coffee Break German sessions hoping to get a crash course in language learning which has never been my strong suit. Instead of Spotify, I have German radio turned on in the background hoping that something will sink in.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Do you have any tips or resources for learning the bare necessities for vacation? </i></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-86125940971495089622015-07-29T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-29T03:00:06.416-07:00Five Podcasts for Your Commute<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3S1ejATLN8rzG473Io-0UiIA8BcxFILlhUZCYVqsm0xr19zkwBBo6ZiZ8boGBfUrcMseV6tgHAz6747H0hZq_SIpomNOA2fXj0zoGvg58vejI99XwrDJx9EN9vmIsmR33rX3JFL94vesl/s1600/favorite-podcasts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3S1ejATLN8rzG473Io-0UiIA8BcxFILlhUZCYVqsm0xr19zkwBBo6ZiZ8boGBfUrcMseV6tgHAz6747H0hZq_SIpomNOA2fXj0zoGvg58vejI99XwrDJx9EN9vmIsmR33rX3JFL94vesl/s1600/favorite-podcasts.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'll admit that I was a little late to the podcast bandwagon and didn't really start listening until Serial, but I can't get enough of them now. Whether I'm on the road and am tired of music, or at the gym, or at home wanting a little background noise, I enjoy that they require more concentration than listening to music, but still allow you to occupy your time with other things. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
No matter your interests, there is a podcast out there discussing it in detail and they're a great way to delve into a subject more. Here are just a few of my favorites that I listen to weekly.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/look-like-local-travelers/id993214217?mt=2" target="_blank">Look Like a Local</a></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Everyone who loves to travel, wants to explore a new city like a local. No one consciously sets out to only bounce from one tourist trap to another. Look Like a Local is a travel podcast that takes you across North America (and now Europe). They interview local residents of travel destinations to find out where the best places to eat, see and hang out are. It's great to skim through and find episodes about a destination you are about to visit, or if you are looking for inspiration for your next weekend getaway. You might remember this podcast from when <a href="http://yorkavenueblog.com/newyorkcitytraveltips/" target="_blank">Jackie</a> was a guest and shared her favorite spots in NYC. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://radiolingua.com/coffeebreakgerman/" target="_blank">Coffee Break German</a></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In my now frantic quest to learn enough German to not embarrass myself in a few weeks (can you believe it?!), I stumbled upon the Coffee Break German language learning podcast. I enjoy the format and being able to hear natives speak to get a good feel for the accent. The podcast is produced by Radio Lingua and they also have lessons in French and Spanish. To get additional lessons, you can sign up for a paid subscription.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/real-simple-podcasts" target="_blank">Real Simple - Adulthood Made Easy</a></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being an adult is hard. And one of the twenty-something editor, Sam Zabell, at Real Simple is on a mission to take the guesswork out of transitioning out of college and helping other twenty-somethings win at real life. Topics include: taxes 101, cooking for one, meeting people in a new city, apartment hunting and negotiating your first salary. Each week, Sam talks with experts to help answer all of her questions along the way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://gimletmedia.com/show/mystery-show/" target="_blank">Mystery Show</a></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mystery Show is a new podcast about mysteries, hosted by Starlee Kine (you may know her from This American Life), and is a must-listen for Nancy Drew fans. All mysteries are listener submitted and the only rule is that they cannot be solved simply by Googling. I love that Starlee takes you through her entire thought process bouncing from clue to clue and that she is also interested in learning more background about the people she interviews along the way. In some of the episodes, I've been a little more interested in their stories than I have been in solving the case. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://serialpodcast.org/" target="_blank">Serial</a></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And finally, Serial, the podcast that made podcasts cool again. If you haven't listened to season one already, you should stop what you're doing and listen. I can't wait for season two this fall and (hopefully) season three in the spring. Serial follows an entire true story each season. The show follows the plot and characters wherever they lead, through many twists and turns, and the listeners are figuring out what is happening right along host Sarah Koenig. I'm not sure how much of Adnan Syed's success in his fight for a new trial can be attributed to the popularity of Serial and the real questions and mistakes brought up in his first trial, but it was fascinating to watch it all unfold. </div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-37206202423246131492015-07-18T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-18T03:00:03.138-07:00Coffee Talk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRCKkyTiaJSOYMnvt-qblhXOYMEWO9FfIKNNaZqqEoxheo_0VTx7y3hoSe1APUmCa9Zsfn7CBX2zyeOgTUeaTsEYOyQSj5Wrnr5eUJ7A83bsFEKyMQRaHr13xOU_iK20mEjnPsPNneKwWK/s1600/coffee-talk-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRCKkyTiaJSOYMnvt-qblhXOYMEWO9FfIKNNaZqqEoxheo_0VTx7y3hoSe1APUmCa9Zsfn7CBX2zyeOgTUeaTsEYOyQSj5Wrnr5eUJ7A83bsFEKyMQRaHr13xOU_iK20mEjnPsPNneKwWK/s1600/coffee-talk-36.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Want to keep up with current events but don't have the time? The Everygirl has you covered with <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/5-easy-ways-to-keep-up-with-current-events" target="_blank">five easy tips</a>, from finding your favorite news roundup (mine is theskimm) to combining unbiased sources with more opinionated sources for a well-rounded view on what's going on. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Are you trying to balance working full time with freelancing? Scheduling and blocking off time (and being realistic about how long things take) is crucial. Kelsey shares her <a href="http://www.pinegateroad.com/how-to-schedule-your-week-when-you-work-full-time-and-freelance/" target="_blank">scheduling method</a> to make it all work so you're not spending all of your time working.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bored of sandwiches every day at lunch? Try these <a href="http://www.sunnywithachanceofsprinkles.com/2015/07/3-easy-lunches-to-bring-to-work.html" target="_blank">three lunches</a> and be the envy of the office break room.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Planing for #GermanyAustria2015 has been going on for almost a year and <a href="http://apairandasparediy.com/2015/07/5-steps-for-researching-your-next-travel-destination-so-you-find-all-the-cool-places.html" target="_blank">these tips</a> will help when researching a destination so you don't have to worry about missing any of the cool spots.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A whole week of <a href="http://hellonatural.co/recipes-with-quinoa/" target="_blank">meals</a> made with quinoa. Still a little skeptical that I wouldn't get sick of the grains after three days.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-284600066822849512015-07-15T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-15T03:00:01.823-07:00Summer Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs-YqsXqgGZdXDP2BUbxhyphenhyphenoq8yIlvs6kJ0qEUPYtphRSCLcijrs_Li_jzsPgY33wFoTo-emewvVlUAsKeCdHmNI3tS59xF3ZK6aTR3LW-MOyqbm44jH18b4cEAeCcDKwxwxE8oY6CKr05/s1600/summer-reading-list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs-YqsXqgGZdXDP2BUbxhyphenhyphenoq8yIlvs6kJ0qEUPYtphRSCLcijrs_Li_jzsPgY33wFoTo-emewvVlUAsKeCdHmNI3tS59xF3ZK6aTR3LW-MOyqbm44jH18b4cEAeCcDKwxwxE8oY6CKr05/s1600/summer-reading-list.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The concept of summer reading is much more appealing after high school. Although I admit that I was the student who finished the assigned reading and essays well before the halfway point of summer and enjoyed it. Call me crazy. So far this summer my taste in books has been all over the place: from Amy Poehler's laugh-until-you-cry-from-laughing memoir and Cheryl Strayed's much more serious and motivational memoir, to the latest novel from Grisham (I think it's the latest, he just writes way too many) and a unique world history overview.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Confession time. Other than her time on Weekend Update, Mean Girls and Parks and Rec, I didn't know much about Amy Poehler's career. And I was one of those people who read through it thinking of Leslie Knope writing it, even though that's just a character she plays. But any book with a guest chapter by Seth Myers is a book worth reading in my opinion and I enjoyed the mix of memoir and comedy, although it was no "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me." (<i>Side note: Mindy's second book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Not-Me-Mindy-Kaling/dp/0804138141" target="_blank">Why Not Me</a>, is coming out in September and I cannot wait.</i>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I went through a major John Grisham phase in high school. As in I've read every single one of his books and am now in the habit of automatically reading the next one year after year. Gray Mountain focuses on the coal mining industry in Appalachia and the severe impact it has on the environment as well as the economy and the people of the region. In true Grisham fashion, there were many ethical questions and law practices raised as well as seedy characters typical of small-town justice. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Months after the movie was released (on DVD) I got around to reading Wild. It was all everyone could talk about and perhaps my expectations for it were too high, but I was underwhelmed by it. It was a powerful story knowing that it was true, rather than fiction, but it would have been just as powerful without all the mentions of her toenails falling off. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And finally, A History of the World in 6 Glasses, which I highly recommend to anyone who has a love of history and how interconnected social, economic and political factors are. From prehistoric times to present day, Standage sums up the major high points of history as affected by beer, wine, spirits, tea, coffee and Coca-Cola. While I was in college, the International Programs office organized two summer trips based on this book following the history of tea (traveling to Boston, China, India and London) and coffee (traveling to Ethiopia, Turkey and Paris).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>What's on your must-read list this summer?</i></b></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-29832243105432565992015-07-13T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-13T03:00:05.657-07:00Let's Do Brunch<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSBVhPqP5yEzdFPyzqjerK6FJ5ndvw3iTtgWz_I-LOYT2nZYamAB3FIrDgUAIfkmcevHZ686qj3urcWGj1E-PfW_2dQEtno0uwjbLLyCah0ShzQ0uJWPKsQ4y2-0kPK41HdtKzZ99wwLK/s1600/outdoor-brunch-mood-board.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSBVhPqP5yEzdFPyzqjerK6FJ5ndvw3iTtgWz_I-LOYT2nZYamAB3FIrDgUAIfkmcevHZ686qj3urcWGj1E-PfW_2dQEtno0uwjbLLyCah0ShzQ0uJWPKsQ4y2-0kPK41HdtKzZ99wwLK/s1600/outdoor-brunch-mood-board.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://awelldressedhome.com/1632-guest-post-dining-al-fresco/" target="_blank">1</a> | <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/destination-weddings/2012/06/07/hawaii-wedding-photo-shoot-by-malia-cano-photography/" target="_blank">2</a> | <a href="http://camillestyles.com/living/cream-of-the-crop/10-best-springtime-tables?slide=1" target="_blank">3</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's no secret that brunch is my favorite meal of the day and that restaurants that serve breakfast all day long have a special place in my heart. And what better way to enjoy brunch than on a backyard patio with a few of your best girlfriends? No backyard? No problem. With enough potted plants, and some fake turf if you are feeling extra festive, can turn any apartment balcony into a private garden.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Although a brunch-time event doesn't give the hostess as much time to prepare everything as opposed to a dinner party, a menu of everyone's favorite sweet and savory bites are sure to be a crowd pleaser. And if you are still hesitant about having enough time to decorate the table and fix a full meal, why not make it a potluck and ask everyone to bring their favorite dish (<i>and swap recipes at the end of course)</i>? If you are a hit-the-snooze-ten-times kind of person, I would suggest opting for a potluck. You'll thank yourself later.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If I were to throw an end-of-summer brunch my must haves would be: florals, a color palate of peaches, corals and greens, outdoor seating and slightly-uncoordinated dishes for an undone look (which really would simply mean I don't have a full set of matching dishes yet).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
On the menu: <a href="http://www.gimmesomeoven.com/1-hour-easy-cinnamon-rolls-recipe/" target="_blank">cinnamon rolls</a>, <a href="http://theviewfromgreatisland.com/beautiful-breakfast-tart/" target="_blank">fruit and yogurt tart</a>, <a href="http://addapinch.com/cooking/biscuit-blt-sandwich-recipe/" target="_blank">BLT biscuit sliders</a>, <a href="http://www.thecomfortofcooking.com/2014/04/melon-proscuitto-and-mozzarella-skewers.html" target="_blank">melon-mozzarella-prosciutto skewers</a>, <a href="http://www.gimmesomeoven.com/how-to-cold-brew-coffee-recipe/" target="_blank">cold brew coffee</a> and a <a href="http://www.designlovefest.com/2013/07/dlf-mooncanyon-floral-workshop/#_a5y_p=869434" target="_blank">juice bar</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
As much as I love brunch, I love any excuse for unique paper goods, including invitations to coordinate with the event and to set the mood. <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" target="_blank">Paperless Post</a> is a great resource for unique <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/section/invitations" target="_blank">invitations</a> to add the finishing - or really the <i>beginning</i> - touch to any party!</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-90534120976042292482015-07-11T06:19:00.000-07:002015-07-11T06:19:13.108-07:00COFFEE TALK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TvrEsb4eouzhySaBZrlAXvKY3EbvOcPC6PzF9jC2TGOrrxWLInKXJNn5arzE9z7qiIiY5KNs7qRFJ-rYGGQWZRDwYAECW9Jdu2P3pzF9s73BsLyjapooN7iJYxmBaLduY0sGqUNWJrCw/s1600/COffee-talk-35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TvrEsb4eouzhySaBZrlAXvKY3EbvOcPC6PzF9jC2TGOrrxWLInKXJNn5arzE9z7qiIiY5KNs7qRFJ-rYGGQWZRDwYAECW9Jdu2P3pzF9s73BsLyjapooN7iJYxmBaLduY0sGqUNWJrCw/s1600/COffee-talk-35.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So you've downloaded PhotoShop to add the finishing touch to your photos. Now what? Scour the Internet for tutorial videos. Here is a quick look at <a href="http://thenectarcollective.com/5-essential-photoshop-tools-edit-blog-photos-use/" target="_blank">five of the main tools</a> you'll need clean up images for your blog.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The walls of my apartment are covered in prints of iconic Paris scenes and <a href="http://www.minted.com/product/wall-art-prints/MIN-X70-GNA/men-in-red?org=photo" target="_blank">this one of the Louvre</a> is a must to add to my collection.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Photos from <a href="http://guntersabroad.blogspot.com/2015/07/dubrovnik-disneyland-for-adults.html" target="_blank">Jamie's trip to Croatia</a> has solidified it as the next adventure on my (slightly distant) horizon. I can't wait to get lost in the winding staircases and panoramic views of the sea.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Looking to save money and stick to a budget? Well Samantha Rose is right there with you with a<a href="http://www.samantharosesays.com/2015/07/how-to-save-tons-of-money-each-month.html#.VaB2xRPBzGc" target="_blank"> humorous take</a> on suggestions to pinch a few pennies. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you've ever scoured photos of homes on trulia then you know the importance well-lit and semi-stage photos can play in choosing your dream home. Unfortunately <a href="http://www.venustrappedinmars.com/2015/07/the-house-hunters-episode-that-never-was.html" target="_blank">these home-sellers</a> missed that memo. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Perfectly portioned <a href="http://www.mackenziehoran.com/2015/07/09/healthy-snacking-with-nourish-snacks/" target="_blank">healthy snacks</a> to hold off hanger when you're on the go are a must.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The itinerary for my trip to Germany and Austria (in less than two months!) is coming together with help from a few lists of must- see sights and must-eat cafes including: <a href="http://souvenirfinder.com/2014/03/14/best-cafes-vienna-coffee-cake-schnitzel/" target="_blank">best cafes in Vienna</a>, <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/the-sights-flavors-and-culture-of-vienna-austria" target="_blank">the Everygirl's sights, flavors and culture of Vienna</a>, and <a href="http://www.exploredreamdiscoverblog.com/2012/11/salzburg-downtown-hohensalzburg-castle.html" target="_blank">Salzburg: Downtown + Hohensalzburg Castle</a>. </div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-4554966469115395092015-07-06T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-06T03:00:07.171-07:00Small Space Organization: Lady Who Lived in a Shoe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Lg-SfOMtwTkOIAzD8KKI7sOK9EStGjXoQPIMFDplIiI9NNd7jP7kK8AW4JktMeUKy4yrDYta8HjVtB5Cokv_x2PZRCOVuQIDqFRauk7-udvN94wT6D3P2K5qBnLPV2ne_EtUAO_Pf5ZH/s1600/home-organization.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Lg-SfOMtwTkOIAzD8KKI7sOK9EStGjXoQPIMFDplIiI9NNd7jP7kK8AW4JktMeUKy4yrDYta8HjVtB5Cokv_x2PZRCOVuQIDqFRauk7-udvN94wT6D3P2K5qBnLPV2ne_EtUAO_Pf5ZH/s1600/home-organization.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/havana-oval-magazine-basket/?pkey=coffice-accessories&" target="_blank">Magazine basket</a> | <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30275861/" target="_blank">Shelving unit </a>| <a href="http://www.designdarling.com/collections/tabletop/products/pink-striped-platter-set" target="_blank">Pink and orange trays</a> | <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/bedford-wood-desk-accessories-paper-organizer-drawer/?pkey=coffice-accessories&" target="_blank">Paper organizer</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-3-tier-stackable-shelf-copper/-/A-14104453#prodSlot=_1_33" target="_blank">Closet shoe rack</a> | <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/blue-mirrored-glass-trays-e732/?pkey=ctrays&cm_src=trays||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">Tray</a> | <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/lannie-accessories-cannister/?pkey=coffice-accessories&" target="_blank">Canisters</a> | <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/modern-weave-underbed-storage-d115/?pkey=ccloset-solutions&cm_src=closet-solutions||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">Under-bed storage</a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I moved into my first post-grad apartment last year and was starting with a blank slate when it came to decorating. The good news is that I am no longer sharing one bathroom with three other girls. The bad news is my space is only 600 sq. ft., which for Tallahassee is on the small side, but I know that compared to other cities I should be counting my blessings. No mater the square footage, my apartment is seriously lacking in storage space. I have two "closets" in my bedroom, cabinets in the living room and a coat closet (or in my case, broom closet. don't need too many coats in Florida).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the past year, I've had to get creative with my storage solutions. No matter if your home is 600 or 6,000 square feet, somehow you are always wishing for more storage space. Here are a few of my favorite ways to maximize the space you have.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Storage containers that double as decor.</h2>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is key. If you are lacking in closets, then you must find storage that is both functional and decorative. Would you rather see a stack of magazines in the corner, or a woven basket filled with potential mood board inspiration?</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
2. Routinely sift through closets and purge/give away items that you no longer use.</h2>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can't afford to let your hoarder tendencies creep up when you live in a small space. In addition to going through your wardrobe once or twice a year, set aside a little time to take inventory of all of the other closets and cabinets. Almost every house has a junk drawer that acts as a catch all for miscellaneous tidbits. Many of us can't afford to devote an entire drawer to "what if I need this" items.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
3. Make use of <i>every</i> available space.</h2>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This includes under the bed, corner shelving units, ottomans that double as chests and the cabinet above the fridge that no one can reach without climbing on the counters first.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Are you really going to use those magazines for inspiration?</h2>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Magazines and books are my weakness. After I filled my bookshelf, I opted for a Kindle in order not to box myself into a room with floor to ceiling stacks of my favorite stories. Same goes for magazines. Although I've cut down on the number of subscriptions I receive, I still hold onto back issues because they have a tip, a recipe, an outfit, or a paint color that I'm convinced I will need to reference in the future. Pinterest was the best thing to happen to me because I can store all of my inspiration and helpful information from obscure sources online rather than stacked beside my bed. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
5. Have a place for everything, and do your best to return it to its desired location.</h2>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although you don't have to go the extreme of having a chalk outline of every item in your home so you know exactly where it is supposed to be, you get the idea. Personally, having items strewn about like a tornado has ripped through your home stresses me out to no end. Having an idea of where to return something once you are finished will also save time searching through <b>every. single. last</b> drawer.</div>
</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-36406961349706662732015-07-03T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-03T03:00:05.692-07:00Long Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsj9kNbFVOPKKzOZ9236_B0BkMvpd2FghyBdotBfLTdzw4rKfz1isvtgy-fwrOQw7M10hPo8c_6vZ0O1TSJ0cuUYDk4ftPGEBqkZRnvZ2bdxUbKNPhyphenhyphenPW8OIxjZK8MgKZiaSUCP85egpW/s1600/july-4-moodboard.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsj9kNbFVOPKKzOZ9236_B0BkMvpd2FghyBdotBfLTdzw4rKfz1isvtgy-fwrOQw7M10hPo8c_6vZ0O1TSJ0cuUYDk4ftPGEBqkZRnvZ2bdxUbKNPhyphenhyphenPW8OIxjZK8MgKZiaSUCP85egpW/s1600/july-4-moodboard.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hope you're making the most of the long weekend and that it's filled with BBQs, lake time, lemonade, fireworks and your most patriotic outfit. Happy (early) birthday, America!<br />
<br />
Fourth of July weekend marks the halfway point of summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Every summer I make a bucket list of things that I want to do before fall comes around but I somehow fall into the same routine of visits to the farmer's market, afternoons by the pool, dining on restaurant patios and nightly walks in the park. Not that I'm complaining. They don't call them the lazy days of summer for nothing. What all is on your summer bucket list? There's still time to check them all off! </div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-51923068764273060962015-06-30T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-30T03:00:08.348-07:00Tourist in Your Hometown: London<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I'm so excited to share Jen of <a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/" target="_blank">Lady Relocated's</a> tips on how to experience London like a local. If you would also like to participate in the Tourist in Your Hometown guest post series email me stampinmypassport (at) gmail (dot) com. </i><br />
<br />
I'm often asked what it's like to live in London, and I typically respond like a deer in headlights. It's impossible to answer that question easily. London is unlike anywhere I've ever traveled or lived. A city of contrasts, old and new, historical and modern, chaotic and peaceful, maddening and magical, cold yet welcoming, claustrophobic but expansive, quintessentially British yet culturally diverse...I could go on and on. London refuses be characterized in simple terms.</div>
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/London-Local-Final.png"><img alt="London-Local-Final" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3487" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/London-Local-Final.png" height="450" width="688" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've taken my best shot at <a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/2014/07/28/london-first-time-visitors-guide/" title="London First Time Visitor’s Guide">tourist advice</a> for my visiting family and friends, but there's also something to be said for taking a page out of a local's book. Londoners have taught me to embrace free museums, appreciate pubs, and keep up with the latest cultural events. They've also taught me to cram too many people into a tube car and queue properly, but that's another story.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I was showing you around London like a local, here's what we would do.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>1. Take the bus</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The #11 bus is the perfect route to see all the major sites. Rather than getting on a crowded tourist bus, we would pay the regular commuter fare and grab a seat on the top deck of a city bus to sightsee like a local.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Big-Ben-Thames.png"><img alt="Big-Ben-Thames" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3523" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Big-Ben-Thames.png" height="450" width="700" /></a>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<h2>
<strong>2. Enjoy the pub scene</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sunday Roast is like Thanksgiving every Sunday. Wear your stretchy jeans. Here's a <a href="https://londonist.com/2015/01/londons-best-sunday-roasts-rated-and-mapped.php" target="_blank">guide for the best roasts in London</a> according to <em>The Londonist</em>.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Harwood-Arms-Roast.png"><img alt="Harwood-Arms-Roast" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3517" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Harwood-Arms-Roast.png" height="450" width="700" /></a>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<h2>
<strong>3. Night at the museum</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Most museums in London are free which is reason enough to go. But many also offer late night hours, often serving drinks and hosting activities so we can get our culture on, drinks in hand, without dodging school tours and strollers. Peruse our options <a href="http://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/whats-on/art-and-exhibitions/late-museum-and-gallery-openings-in-london" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2>
<strong>4. Grab lunch at the market</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The tourists all go to Portobello and Borough Market. We'll hit up the <a href="http://www.realfoodfestival.co.uk/market/" target="_blank">Real Food Market</a>, <a href="http://www.maltby.st/" target="_blank">Maltby Street</a>, <a href="http://www.broadwaymarket.co.uk/market.php" target="_blank">Broadway Market</a>, <a href="http://brixtonmarket.net/market-times/" target="_blank">Brixton</a>, <a href="http://www.columbiaroad.info/" target="_blank">Columbia Road Flower Market</a>, or <a href="http://www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com/" target="_blank">Spitalfields</a> instead. These are just a few of the markets in London that serve up tasty food at reasonable prices alongside fresh produce and handmade crafts. </div>
<br />
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Real-Food-Market.png"><img alt="Real-Food-Market" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3518" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Real-Food-Market.png" height="450" width="700" /></a>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<h2>
<strong>5. Coffee and Canals</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I learned about the canals snaking through central London I was intrigued. One of London's best kept secrets is <a href="https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/canals-and-rivers/regents-canal" target="_blank">Regent's Canal</a>. We'll get our caffeine fix at local coffee shop <a href="http://www.timeout.com/london/restaurants/towpath" target="_blank">Towpath</a> along the canal and start strolling.
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>6. Brunch</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear about London is that British food is bad. In case you couldn't tell from my food theme, this couldn't be further from the truth. London has Michelin-starred restaurants coming out of the woodwork and a diversity of cuisines that mirrors the cultural mix of this town's population. Brunch is the latest revelation in London's food scene. I would take you to <a href="http://grangerandco.com/" target="_blank">Granger & Co.</a> in Notting Hill for an Australian-style brunch, or <a href="http://www.thebreakfastclubcafes.com/" target="_blank">The Breakfast Club</a> if you preferred American-style bacon and hash browns. <a href="http://www.ottolenghi.co.uk/locations" target="_blank">Ottolenghi</a> is another hot chef in town with several brunch and dinner spots.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h2>
<strong>7. Go to the theatre</strong></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The West End isn't just for tourists. We can buy day tickets or scour <a href="http://www.lastminute.com/site/entertainment/theatre/" target="_blank">lastminute.com</a> for a great deal. There is so much talent in this town we're sure to enjoy whatever show we choose.
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>8. Ferry to Greenwich</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We can escape London without ever leaving the city limits by hopping on a water taxi and sailing East to Greenwich. The covered market, expansive park, and museums will keep us occupied for hours. The views from the water taxi are stunning too, and much cheaper than a tourist cruise.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Tower-Bridge-and-Shard.jpg"><img alt="Tower-Bridge-and-Shard" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3520" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Tower-Bridge-and-Shard.jpg" height="450" width="700" /></a>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<h2>
<strong>9. Walk in the park</strong></h2>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Everyone knows Hyde Park is amazing, but have you been to Richmond Park, Regent's Park, Victoria Park, or Hampstead Heath? Those are just a few of the more popular ones. We'll walk off all the food we've indulged in and take in some people-watching as a bonus. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Regents-Park.png"><img alt="Regents-Park" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3519" src="http://ladyrelocated.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Regents-Park.png" height="450" width="700" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There's never a dull moment in London. I hope you have a chance to experience it like a tourist AND a local for yourself soon.</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-43376194953927743332015-06-29T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-29T03:00:00.906-07:00A Foodcation Guide to Tallahassee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqPuI15jQ7z7EOOfLNSfOzZhM5vRpyuUsA182TikJupkEAIBcPjdUJxDxeGHupRFLjrRliC3OZX7s-wuoeR2r6D6W6p3Y6ecZQPdWr-FAMcDTfbmHVSQ69b8iV_iARW7N1IliCCXVgPFb/s1600/Foodcation+Guide+Tallahassee.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqPuI15jQ7z7EOOfLNSfOzZhM5vRpyuUsA182TikJupkEAIBcPjdUJxDxeGHupRFLjrRliC3OZX7s-wuoeR2r6D6W6p3Y6ecZQPdWr-FAMcDTfbmHVSQ69b8iV_iARW7N1IliCCXVgPFb/s1600/Foodcation+Guide+Tallahassee.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During my blogging hiatus, Samantha came to visit for a long weekend. No one appreciates (and requires) a foodcation more than that girl. You may remember our previous <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-primarily-french-foodcation-guide-to.html" target="_blank">foodcation guide to NYC</a>, which was a true test of endurance but we pushed through all of the doughnuts, truffle cheese fries, steak frites and brunches. This weekend was no different except that we couldn't have asked for better weather (not a single summer afternoon shower which is unheard of in Florida) and were able to take advantage of eating outdoors at most places. When we weren't eating, we were making plans for <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2015/02/a-very-bavarian-adventure.html" target="_blank">Germany</a>, which is only two months away now! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQGKGziQsnbJE0mVOa63xzZA-tHZnFyXSOBsrZwLMg1w_VpcqnhwjLyuIXcQPiUIEKJzlAg_0eyBnD_KUDgfA4hM7r59AqNbZ7DZklwcJ5hDT50v_Y1mGsZwiqvvl_mhAepwK5vLP0M43/s1600/Selfie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQGKGziQsnbJE0mVOa63xzZA-tHZnFyXSOBsrZwLMg1w_VpcqnhwjLyuIXcQPiUIEKJzlAg_0eyBnD_KUDgfA4hM7r59AqNbZ7DZklwcJ5hDT50v_Y1mGsZwiqvvl_mhAepwK5vLP0M43/s1600/Selfie.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jZFrKRnNUEJitueoBv8dqCmHcuEs5TYD47pu4SoEB4jl9bCFFvUSgQEV5B3C3FwCOJ_-80ks3oidTo2DC2eKL7YlhS50feRYPKIvNpqOxwKHVO2hX3FjBPNQS2QyqeLQ_4UjfcFPO6Hk/s1600/Front+Porch.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jZFrKRnNUEJitueoBv8dqCmHcuEs5TYD47pu4SoEB4jl9bCFFvUSgQEV5B3C3FwCOJ_-80ks3oidTo2DC2eKL7YlhS50feRYPKIvNpqOxwKHVO2hX3FjBPNQS2QyqeLQ_4UjfcFPO6Hk/s1600/Front+Porch.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Saturday brunch at The Front Porch </b>We hit the ground running on Saturday with brunch, which is the best meal in my humble opinion. Biscuits and sausage gravy for Samantha and biscuits, veggie omelet and hashbrowns for me. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqD0BklHm-H3c4sOt0aiksIr1U0bszOoCP0MogCLqJlUrQK1q8PKSoXpoA2X57BskQHuGsLEq5K-rUApMnWTklpce2epPVJm-6bKusoUSeTFytOsYdodt6HjRhppWZuWQEECOxKTXY0JA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.17.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqD0BklHm-H3c4sOt0aiksIr1U0bszOoCP0MogCLqJlUrQK1q8PKSoXpoA2X57BskQHuGsLEq5K-rUApMnWTklpce2epPVJm-6bKusoUSeTFytOsYdodt6HjRhppWZuWQEECOxKTXY0JA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.17.46+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo via <a href="https://instagram.com/tlhdowntown/" target="_blank">@tlhdowntown</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Farmer's Market</b> The key to being able to push through a foodcation is to eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies as often as you can inbetween stops. Your body will thank you. Typically my eyes are bigger than my stomach when it comes to buying produce. I say yes to everything all at once and then after a week or so am left with a fridge full of produce that is a little past its prime.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Bella Bella </b>This may possibly be my favorite restaurant in Tallahassee. My advice to anyone going is order the bubble bread (garlic bread topped with . You'll thank me later. My other recommendations include the eggplant parmesan and the spinach ravioli with shrimp.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDh1zu1y-P5tmhMJO4Hc-HMkMdoOi7PzNL0ZxsA9hJPbaqXWTSeLhKKcdCC32uR2A4xkkHsyDRvPgv8VlIw3pKesAmPlAFAmWgZELHQum9Xht9XJErW2eigqAarpux-yqtVHy8r3lAd55/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.15.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDh1zu1y-P5tmhMJO4Hc-HMkMdoOi7PzNL0ZxsA9hJPbaqXWTSeLhKKcdCC32uR2A4xkkHsyDRvPgv8VlIw3pKesAmPlAFAmWgZELHQum9Xht9XJErW2eigqAarpux-yqtVHy8r3lAd55/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.15.22+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo via <a href="https://instagram.com/paisleycafe/" target="_blank">@paisleycafe</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Paisley Cafe</b> Also located in midtown, Paisley Cafe has fresh and locally-grown soups, salads and sandwiches and is the perfect location to catch up with girlfriends over a long lunch. You can't go wrong with their chicken salad croissant and lobster bisque, farmhouse grilled cheese and tomato soup. If you are ambitious and want to brunch Saturday and Sunday, they also have a brunch menu that is sure to not disappoint.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4VsSWkN2O01iYRT690M0m7kfc4lB2qIwYNz1klcLdoJJ5YOtx0Xj-34kO6zYYEM0lif4m-6F0WTN60v0siXLk_FSKTCJGN_9obhna7drjWNh4Oy6fSDTHMFUTSnTmxu6dxftIuu3FeYd/s1600/Cascades+Park.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4VsSWkN2O01iYRT690M0m7kfc4lB2qIwYNz1klcLdoJJ5YOtx0Xj-34kO6zYYEM0lif4m-6F0WTN60v0siXLk_FSKTCJGN_9obhna7drjWNh4Oy6fSDTHMFUTSnTmxu6dxftIuu3FeYd/s1600/Cascades+Park.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Pub Sub Picnic at Cascades Park</b> Samantha loves Publix possibly more than Floridians and requested a pub sub at some point. The weekend's weather couldn't have been more perfect for a picnic. We loaded our cart with pub subs, pita chips and bacon horseradish dip (my new obsession), and fresh berries before driving to Cascades.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2XcDidP4yKszpH-bZ0d89J8RsyI2JHqcHL9NN40j4E9dCtH98j092nb0o1KYzV7cGQPc6tQPSXfeXd8quqsbwfry2hu0STw7eWbQFliF09foH3maSDkXQHJioa_5U2qzpuv4TwX9fOFD/s1600/Jonah%2527s+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2XcDidP4yKszpH-bZ0d89J8RsyI2JHqcHL9NN40j4E9dCtH98j092nb0o1KYzV7cGQPc6tQPSXfeXd8quqsbwfry2hu0STw7eWbQFliF09foH3maSDkXQHJioa_5U2qzpuv4TwX9fOFD/s1600/Jonah%2527s+1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqZQKnYuOXz9JXENLa4Hz5E4cvwLiQkyDgSNLZmpuXyrts2Mf8c1DarZBnNZrxrEp8-jw2pSRATu4PFI9Eaz-ddvZWFeRIFvgXhXeqkgVPbWvzFjApFyBvPz9GBtSJc1SKVKlOwAIjWCu/s1600/Jonah%2527s+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqZQKnYuOXz9JXENLa4Hz5E4cvwLiQkyDgSNLZmpuXyrts2Mf8c1DarZBnNZrxrEp8-jw2pSRATu4PFI9Eaz-ddvZWFeRIFvgXhXeqkgVPbWvzFjApFyBvPz9GBtSJc1SKVKlOwAIjWCu/s1600/Jonah%2527s+2.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Jonah's </b>On Memorial Day we drove over to Thomasville, and although most of the shops were closed for the holiday, Jonah's was open and offering free fried pickles to their Facebook fans. Yes please. Jonah's is a staple in the Thomasville downtown area. I was hesitant because Samantha typically has an aversion to all things seafood, but she was a good sport and was even pleasantly surprised by her first grits experience. My recommendations: the grilled salmon or grouper with the Jonah's sauce and the white cheddar grits. And if you're really hungry, or had a long wait (you'll want to arrive early), start off with the calypso shrimp, their version of bang bang shrimp.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimA1LC1kwGCpZ0WY_p_GWqrMTrV95pPo7S_A8JF57HM5EIj7MH0mBjKTC0ulT7vdCa4xq4KrPgkGJSexuxqf0QtiybAsnPBeBWie7J7tdsvLJP46f7YPe9HA8hiL8pNSoB1Iq9k9A81R0U/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.16.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimA1LC1kwGCpZ0WY_p_GWqrMTrV95pPo7S_A8JF57HM5EIj7MH0mBjKTC0ulT7vdCa4xq4KrPgkGJSexuxqf0QtiybAsnPBeBWie7J7tdsvLJP46f7YPe9HA8hiL8pNSoB1Iq9k9A81R0U/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-27+at+7.16.42+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://instagram.com/grassrootscoffee/" target="_blank">Photo via @grassrootscoffee</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Grassroots Coffee </b>Although no Midnight Oil, Grassroots comes in a close second for a unique atmosphere that makes you want to hang around all afternoon. And their coffee, which is roasted in-house, isn't half bad either.</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-12997238717149558192015-06-27T05:00:00.000-07:002015-06-27T05:00:03.974-07:00COFFEE TALK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVLscbbUYeBmOKhhgZ3ZHQDhVYIEEymb2F56QucQ8fvuKhxrseO1b7b9VRr0ijUEPoQnAMSlHL0T2RZU1ZaX49aR3yIe5sJZnrtDT9Th6KGoS9MXkpmXoMUt01aUY376ev_0dIqv8g5CN/s1600/COFFEE-TALK-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVLscbbUYeBmOKhhgZ3ZHQDhVYIEEymb2F56QucQ8fvuKhxrseO1b7b9VRr0ijUEPoQnAMSlHL0T2RZU1ZaX49aR3yIe5sJZnrtDT9Th6KGoS9MXkpmXoMUt01aUY376ev_0dIqv8g5CN/s1600/COFFEE-TALK-34.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The moment that you can't remember the last time you blogged is a wake-up call. Do you completely throw in the towel and say sayonara to your online space or do you get back in the saddle? I'm a firm believer in not forcing yourself to write when you truly feel uninspired. Writing and blogging shouldn't feel like a chore or just another item to cross off your to-do list. During my hiatus, several people mentioned that they enjoyed following along with my blog and I felt a little guilty about ignoring this space. I say all of that to say that I'm back!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And now onto a few of my favorite posts, recipes and thoughts. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The idea that "you can just shorten a bridesmaids dress and wear it again" 100 percent applies to <a href="http://galmeetsglam.com/2015/06/a-dreamy-moment/" target="_blank">these</a>. I wouldn't complain one bit to have 27 of these bridesmaids dresses hanging in my closet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There is something about summer that makes you want <a href="http://www.kayliwanders.com/eating-healthy-on-a-budget/" target="_blank">eat healthier</a> and local. Perhaps it is all of the pool and beach days that act as motivator to say no to the office doughnuts and yes to the salad. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Looking for a few new clean eating recipes? I've tried the roasted veggie salad from Day One, the nicoise salad from Day Two (I would suggest swapping the canned tuna for steamed shrimp or salmon) and the roasted pepper and spinach egg muffins from Day Nine of this <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/christinebyrne/clean-eating-2015#.lq7e5VPJ5" target="_blank">Buzzfeed Two-Week Clean Eating Challenge</a>. I haven't quite decided to give the full challenge a try yet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And while you're in the habit of eating healthier, you typically want to also get moving more. If paying $15 per barre class is not in your budget, try this <a href="http://greatist.com/move/home-barre-workout" target="_blank">15-minute barre workout</a> at home. Trust me, you'll feel it the next morning. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh <a href="http://ofgoldenroses.blogspot.com/2015/05/i-believe-in-nashville.html" target="_blank">Nashville</a>, how I love you. I can definitely see myself living in Nashville and part of me wants to move sooner rather than later before I become too settled in Tallahassee. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I grew up going to St. Simons Island for family vacations and besides the gorgeous views of the intercostal and the moss covered oak trees, the food is the best part. I thought I had tried all of the good restaurants until I came upon <a href="http://www.cosmosmariners.com/2015/05/where-to-dine-on-st-simons-island.html" target="_blank">this list</a>.</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-15001849381901456622015-04-08T02:30:00.000-07:002015-04-08T02:30:02.054-07:00Topics I Won't Blog About<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZAu3ZFQWlnHCW_0KDbb1OeybH0WZBPcxO-ZJx8iS1PAEQR9YRMEl2wWRPr1UIXxmxSTGHviiaVc_GwjfrRkmrR46U9pMFpDGYvvZeCEB7FdoZxFMG-pFr3E2vxgIWeuA5x30hRonul3b/s1600/not-blogging-topics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZAu3ZFQWlnHCW_0KDbb1OeybH0WZBPcxO-ZJx8iS1PAEQR9YRMEl2wWRPr1UIXxmxSTGHviiaVc_GwjfrRkmrR46U9pMFpDGYvvZeCEB7FdoZxFMG-pFr3E2vxgIWeuA5x30hRonul3b/s1600/not-blogging-topics.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry for the radio silence, but it's been one of those time when I've been at a loss for blog content. And the longer I go without writing a post, the more I convince myself that I will never write another post again. So instead of coming up with topics to write about, here is a list of things you will never find on Stamp in My Passport. I stole the idea from <a href="http://www.birchjuiceblog.com/things-i-wont-blog-about/" target="_blank">Kasi</a> (who was also spending more time on Netflix than blogging). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. <b>Les Enfants</b> You do not have to fear this space turning into a "mommy blog" for an extremely long time. Until that time comes, I will continue to share photos of <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-few-words-from-dixie-sponsor-spotlight.html" target="_blank">Dixie</a> instead. New moms may not appreciate this comparison, but from what I know about infants, it's not much different than taking care of a puppy. Eat, sleep, go to the bathroom, wake up at all hours of the night, and then once they start moving around, will eat/put in their mouth anything that is left on the floor.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. <b>#OOTD</b> I have an array of pencil skirt/cardigan/flowy top/flats combinations that are rotated fairly frequently by day at work and by night and weekend, you will find me in skinny jeans and a striped tee. And lather, rinse, repeat. Despite the copious amount of items sitting in virtual shopping carts across the Internet, I rarely venture out of my style comfort zone. I know what looks good on me and I'm going to stick to it. And while it may make me feel good, it would be quite dull on the blog day in and day out.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. <b>Negative comments, whether about fellow bloggers or people I know</b> This goes for life in general, but especially on the web, where words last for eternity and can never be taken back. Blogging is a community to build others up, not tear them down. And as much as I would love to think that no one I know in real life reads this space, it does happen, and sometimes I have to remember that this is not simply a cathartic outlet to release all of my thoughts.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. <b>Hair and makeup tutorials </b>I can count on a single hand the number of ways I wear my <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2014/10/evolution-of-haircut.html" target="_blank">hair</a>. I am always skeptical of tutorial videos that are sped-up to show you a braided up-do in under two minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. <b>Experiences of a small business owner</b> I love how many bloggers have gone on to start small businesses because they don't feel satisfied unless they are doing something that they absolutely love and can call the shots. I wish you all the best! It takes a great amount of courage to not only identify your strengths and passions, but to take a leap of faith and pursue them. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. <b>Work</b> Going along with not sharing small business advice, I also do not need my blog to promote my 9-5 job. It can take some time for bloggers to find a balance between sharing their online life and their real life. In most cases, sharing details about your employment crosses that line. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. <b>Financial advice</b> I don't pretend to have any secrets on how to pay off your student loans, or the fastest way to save up an emergency fund.You won't find financial advice here, but I would encourage you to seek out twenty-somethings who have the knowledge and are also in the same stage of life as you, whether in their first post-grad job or buying their first home. </div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-80353646944349682632015-04-03T02:30:00.000-07:002015-04-03T02:30:00.827-07:00COFFEE TALK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWa-4W-Y-D30_jAXRDcUdBSWHqAwNZiMOZS7vDVAB6pMMMU2-5awAYVF4dAGtNI3Pz-duztxdgWXdxKzuJE60kFo79RAhWbu6q32RBHuxkDMjCSAVCbi08MbTNp4R7c99tMEM6qvppY7Qi/s1600/Coffee-talk-33.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWa-4W-Y-D30_jAXRDcUdBSWHqAwNZiMOZS7vDVAB6pMMMU2-5awAYVF4dAGtNI3Pz-duztxdgWXdxKzuJE60kFo79RAhWbu6q32RBHuxkDMjCSAVCbi08MbTNp4R7c99tMEM6qvppY7Qi/s1600/Coffee-talk-33.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's time to don your new spring dress, get your nails done and wear your white jeans again without feeling like a walking faux pas. I hope you enjoy the Easter weekend with friends, family and loved ones!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love all of these <a href="http://franish.blogspot.com/2015/03/how-cute-bag-can-save-life.html" target="_blank">bags from Toms</a> and I don't know if I could pick just one. Fran perfectly pairs them with an outfit for different activities so I can justify purchasing multiple. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.elahtree.com/2015/03/grand-central-station.html" target="_blank">Grand Central</a> is more than just a stopping point on your way to NYC, it is a mini-destination in itself. Plus, I can't get enough of Meg's bag. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Can you tell a running theme that I've been on the hunt for a new tote? Currently I have my eye on <a href="http://www.fossil.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=12052&langId=-1&catalogId=25005&categoryId=331141&cm_vc=331141&pn=&productId=22558972&imagePath=ZB5875001" target="_blank">this one</a> or <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/BAGS/totes/PRDOVR~B2545/B2545.jsp" target="_blank">this one</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This <a href="http://www.venustrappedinmars.com/2015/03/how-to-manually-size-your-blog-pictures.html" target="_blank">tutorial</a> on how to change your blog's images without using a photo editor is a game changer. I need to go back through the archives and clean up my old posts before I knew the correct width for photos and thought the extra-large default setting was good enough. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kasi read my mind with her post on <a href="http://www.birchjuiceblog.com/things-i-wont-blog-about/" target="_blank">topics she won't blog about</a>, including fashion, recipes and DIY projects. It can be difficult to find a niche to blog about that fits with your interests and strengths. Once you can accept the fact that just becuase other bloggers are sharing outfit of the day posts or a new recipe they created for dinner last night, doesn't mean you have to. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you seen the <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/i-followed-my-stolen-iphone-across-the-world-became-a-celebr?bffb&utm_term=4ldqpgp#.bkYo1neE1" target="_blank">Buzzfeed article</a> about the guy whose phone was stolen, ended up in China and he was able to track down the guy who bought his phone? They are now best friends and minor celebs in China. Such a small world.</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-10890390423670081702015-03-31T02:30:00.000-07:002015-03-31T02:30:03.715-07:006 Habits of a Coffee Lover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_QEXER_P3nwUD-YeLLPTifv1fj9sDS5uj5tz8PiZNnuoYN7Of28jXw-PNEp4gmivtKS0Mneh3ysOpH2Zey0yNSa2nwXjlBdfJqLAfpVwxsaEIuYlEII7qQf9nVw4rHEq_Jk_XdBCCAO4/s1600/coffee-talk-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_QEXER_P3nwUD-YeLLPTifv1fj9sDS5uj5tz8PiZNnuoYN7Of28jXw-PNEp4gmivtKS0Mneh3ysOpH2Zey0yNSa2nwXjlBdfJqLAfpVwxsaEIuYlEII7qQf9nVw4rHEq_Jk_XdBCCAO4/s1600/coffee-talk-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>You measure coffee in pots, not cups.</b> A Keurig is not economically practical for your coffee needs and the phrase "single serving" should not be limited to 12 ounces of liquid energy.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Picking your favorite drink is near impossible. </b>In the morning, you may crave iced coffee or an Americano, but by lunchtime and your afternoon pick-me-up a latte may be more of your taste. And coffee with desert is not even a question. There is no better pairing.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Your kitchen counter is cluttered with coffee makers. </b>Traditional, french press, pour over, chemex, kettles you name it you have it and they are proudly lining your kitchen counters. Perhaps you might go so far as to say that they are practical decorative artwork for your kitchen.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>You are on a first name basis with baristas. </b>Especially if you study or work from a coffeeshop on a regular basis, you will quickly become familiar (or even friends) with the baristas working around that time. Bonus points if they memorize your drink order or take an extra few moments creating insta-worthy latte art.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>An entire cabinet is dedicated to your collection of mugs and travel tumblers. </b>Some collect purses, for some it's shoes, but for you it's mugs. You can't resist. Plus, you need multiple travel mugs on the off-chance you accidentaly leave one at work.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Speaking of mugs, they are a representation of all of the places you have been to. </b>Who needs magnets, t-shirts, pens or throw blankets to remind them of vacations past? You can also justify the purchase since you will use them on a daily basis. Plus, they are a fun conversation starter when you have people over.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>If you enjoyed this list, you will love my <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-your-starbucks-drink-says-about-you.html" target="_blank">"What your Starbucks drink says about you"</a> list. (shameless plug)</i></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-30833973107462052472015-03-27T02:30:00.000-07:002015-03-27T02:30:01.211-07:00Friday Favorites: Netflix Queue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWB81UkQX_9JR2_6SkAaXuMTvexyln9yPfZiuBjoVF8f3EKCYcT9zR7xFr2UCA8gpbJt3c0xMWbzvvDbMR9m71L_CCoqod925kYiDTyhO07Hhu6b5DU_0n-27puKfV8U440zTninDMppi/s1600/friday-favorites-netflix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWB81UkQX_9JR2_6SkAaXuMTvexyln9yPfZiuBjoVF8f3EKCYcT9zR7xFr2UCA8gpbJt3c0xMWbzvvDbMR9m71L_CCoqod925kYiDTyhO07Hhu6b5DU_0n-27puKfV8U440zTninDMppi/s1600/friday-favorites-netflix.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1">Once you have finished season three of House of Cards you might be left with a void of what to watch next on Netflix, especially as spring finales are approaching. Here are a few of the movies and TV shows waiting in my Netflix queue.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70203634&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C23%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">Magic Beyond Words</a> </b>Lifetime (as they always do) dramatizes the struggle J.K. Rowling went through bringing the wizarding world of Harry Potter to life. Personally, I love Lifetime's dramatizations of real life events (here's to you Tot Mom and Jodi Arias) and I love Harry Potter, so I'm going to go out on a limb and say that I will love this. But I can understand if it's not everyone's cup of butter beer. </span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70185015&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C3%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">Portlandia</a> </b>The sketch comedy starring Fred Armised and Carrie Brownstein in 99 percent of the roles is sure to make you forget you have spent an entire afternoon or night on the couch. This is a must watch for any SNL fans.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70184051&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C7%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">One Day</a> </b>Starring Ann Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, this romantic film follows the lives of a couple each year on the anniversary of the day they met to see where they are, sometimes together and sometimes apart. Most romantic movies spend the majority of the time following a couple as they grow closer together, then there is a major conflict which they must overcome to find each other again. This is the complete opposite, which is refreshing.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70272998&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C31%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">Bletchley Circle</a> </b>For fans of all BBC and Masterpiece Classic shows. Set in the 1950s, this show follows a group of women who served in London's wartime code breaking center who must now track down a serial killer.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70221401&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C30%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">An Idiot Abroad</a> </b>Samantha recommended this one. It is a travel documentary that follows Karl Pilkington as he visits the New Seven Wonders of the World and focuses on his reactions to cultural indiosyncracies in all of the places he visits. Needless to say, it's super awkward and I love it.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70279060&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C38%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="s1"><b><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiPlayer?movieid=70279060&trkid=13630398&tctx=1%2C38%2C113eead4-ea39-425c-81ba-10af1a389e30-288830295" target="_blank">Tiger Eyes</a> </b>This takes me back to middle school when I was in my Judy Blume phase. Also, Willa Holland (aka the troubled younger sister of Marissa Cooper) stars as Davey. It's your standard coming-of-age story that will bring back memories of flying through Here's to You Rachel Robinson, Just as Long as We're Together and Are You There God? It's Me Margaret. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="s1"><b>What's in your Netflix queue?</b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-87029937536919031612015-03-24T02:30:00.000-07:002015-03-24T02:30:01.250-07:00More Than Just For Selfies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1yRpw-06bdLnHqyozL_2KMKYCtEKEKMZ0M9GkFUHmyjVg6W6XvBOmCbrBtoyYfrgpzNy_RhmdjTROFqH3uBUTm5IGz0XOZtCwGDme5mTY_IOALBgYgJV6RcqunVflS_gfocoGPYpKjjY/s1600/favorite-travel-apps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1yRpw-06bdLnHqyozL_2KMKYCtEKEKMZ0M9GkFUHmyjVg6W6XvBOmCbrBtoyYfrgpzNy_RhmdjTROFqH3uBUTm5IGz0XOZtCwGDme5mTY_IOALBgYgJV6RcqunVflS_gfocoGPYpKjjY/s1600/favorite-travel-apps.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Part of packing light means that your phone truly becomes multi-functional. Not only does it continue to be your lifeline to friends and family, but it's also your boarding pass, in-flight entertainment, camera, map, translator and guide to the best restaurants in town. Since your phone is an extension of you, it's important to carry a portable charger in the likely event that the battery dies in the middle of the day when you are nowhere near an electrical outlet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="http://www.tripomatic.com/" target="_blank">Tripomatic</a></b> I just discovered Tripomatic last week, but I know that it's going to be crucial for creating itineraries for European vacations. Not only does it have city maps (unfortunately, to gain offline access, you have to pay), but it also contains a list of all of the most popular attractions that you can add to your itinerary and then switch around based on proximity to each other. They also have a whole slew of guided tours and activities that you can add to your trip if you would like a little bit more context and explanation about what you are looking at. After taking two coach day tours in Scotland and Ireland, I highly recommend them as a way to see and learn a lot without having to do a lot of planning.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="https://www.tripit.com/" target="_blank">TripIt</a></b> TripIt is a must have for all vacations, whether domestic or abroad. As you receive confirmation emails for flights, hotels, attractions, rental cars, etc. forward them to TripIt to keep them all in one place. Although I'm still one of those people who will keep a paper copy of reservations in a folder, it's nice to know that I'll only have to dig through a mountain of paperwork as a last resort.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/audio/audio-europe" target="_blank">Rick Steves Audio Europe</a></b> Too cheap to pay for a city walking or bus tour? Say what you will about Rick Steves, but he has provided free offline walking tours of all of Europe's major cities that last between 1-2 hours. I haven't listened through any yet, but I can't imagine that it could be any worse than aimlessly wandering around admiring the architecture or people watching and that's it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.google.com/flights/" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="https://www.google.com/flights/" target="_blank"><span id="goog_1528099307"></span>Google Flights </a></b><span id="goog_1528099308"></span>Although not a downloadable app, I'm such a fan of searching flights on Google rather than Kayak. The interface is much more clean and uncluttered. The fastest and cheapest flights are grouped at the top of the list depending on what matters most to you. It is also easy to compare prices month to month if you are extremely about your dates of travel. Plus, once you have selected an itinerary, you can save it to track the price as well as email it to friends and family so you can all rest easy knowing you are all booking the same flight.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/city-maps-2go-pro-offline/id327783342?mt=8" target="_blank"><b>CityMaps2Go</b></a> Paper maps are a thing of the past. Download the maps you will need before you depart and have offline access. It's a game changer. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><a href="https://www.duolingo.com/" target="_blank">Duolingo</a></b> I like the repetitive nature of Duolingo and how it turns language learning into a game and combines writing, listening and speaking the language to get a better feel for it. Don't expect to become fluent through this system, but you will be able to navigate the street, and most importantly a menu, by the time you are halfway through. </div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-35716229203259903102015-03-21T05:52:00.001-07:002015-03-21T05:52:17.732-07:00COFFEE TALK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNftGvhcbtN2uxAiUjwobsQbewdnuxpYw-VNvgvFfVOoX_ZQBEDMDV-51xvuSBCCZ2noBZOUXkfbrZgCm9ijE2G_11X3EvnKCroDo3TV5cHhyphenhyphenCKJaPUtRkCgH027VxMEwAaQPSE_WQLwn/s1600/coffee-talk-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNftGvhcbtN2uxAiUjwobsQbewdnuxpYw-VNvgvFfVOoX_ZQBEDMDV-51xvuSBCCZ2noBZOUXkfbrZgCm9ijE2G_11X3EvnKCroDo3TV5cHhyphenhyphenCKJaPUtRkCgH027VxMEwAaQPSE_WQLwn/s1600/coffee-talk-13.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Is it just me, or does 2015 feel like it breezing by quicker than usual? It is the first weekend of <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2015/03/mood-board-spring.html" target="_blank">spring</a>, and before I know it I will be exploring the <a href="http://stampinmypassport.blogspot.com/2015/02/a-very-bavarian-adventure.html" target="_blank">Bavarian Alps</a>. As a dreamer and an over-planner, I tend to have a problem with living in the moment and enjoying life as it comes. Anyone else suffer from this? Any helpful suggestions? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
According to <a href="http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2014/11/dont-waste-your-two-most-productive-hours.html?utm_content=bufferf168c&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">this article</a>, your two most productive hours of the day could be the two after you first wake up, which most of us spend checking email or catching up on the news/Twitter.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://lifehacker.com/eight-common-sleep-myths-that-can-affect-your-slumber-1632487393?utm_content=buffer533ef&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">Eight common sleep myths that can affect your slumber.</a> College taught me that you cannot in fact make up a week's worth of lost sleep on the weekend.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've wanted to visit <a href="http://www.cosmosmariners.com/2015/03/vacationing-on-kiawah-island-south.html" target="_blank">Kiawah Island, SC</a> since the HGTV Dream Home was there several years ago. Natalie has a complete guide of where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and most importantly how to get to the remote barrier island. I was loving the post until I saw the up close and personal photo of a gator and then rethought the trip (gators are something I want to get away from in Florida).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I ever visit Amsterdam, I would want to time the trip with the annual <a href="http://www.aspiringkennedy.com/home/2015/1/13/pack-your-bags-keukenhof-tulip-festival" target="_blank">tulip festival</a>. The combination of walking through thousands of blooming flowers with a waffle or strawberries and cream in hand has my name written all over it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although I don't have a studio, I can relate to all of these <a href="http://yorkavenueblog.com/small-space-living-studio-apartment-decorating-ideas/" target="_blank">reasons to love living in a small space</a>. It's safe to say that no matter how large your home is, you will find a way to fill it and will always complain about not having enough storage. Having a smaller space forces you to to constantly clean out closets and rethink purchases before you buy them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's no secret that I think doxies are the best dog breed by far. And I believe that Dixie should have made this <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/kaileyp2/the-best-25-dachshunds-of-2015-cv1b#.kiX692X79" target="_blank">list of cutest doxies</a>, along with <a href="https://instagram.com/noodleinthecity/" target="_blank">Noodle in the City</a> (which is probably my favorite Instagram account to be honest.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
High school and college was spent watching (and rewatching again and again) Laguna Beach and The Hills. The scripted reality show still left me with lot of <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/bricesander/homeboy-wore-combat-boots-to-the-beach#.dlBgBq9kB" target="_blank">important questions</a> that must be answered. Like did Spencer have the landlord's permission to paint the graffiti mural on the wall? And how many coats of paint did it take Heidi to paint over it?</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-77122212981881819842015-03-18T02:30:00.000-07:002015-03-18T02:30:01.062-07:00Tourist in Your Hometown: St. John's, Newfoundland<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi there! We’re Elizabeth and Luke and we blog about our weekend adventures and travels over at <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog" target="_blank">Something Saturdays</a>. The premise behind Something Saturdays is to make the most of our weekends by doing something new every Saturday, whether that means exploring things in our local area or travelling abroad. We met while we were both working in the Netherlands, but Elizabeth is from St. John’s, Newfoundland, where we currently live, and Luke is originally from Bath, UK. We have lived together in St. John’s for two years now, and during that time we have done our fair share of exploring, attending festivals and community events, learning new skills, and trying out new things.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
St. John’s is the largest city on the island of Newfoundland and is located on the east coast. When you visit St. John’s, you should first head over to <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/signal-hill-saturday" target="_blank">Signal Hill</a>, <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/cape-spear-to-maddox-cove-sunday" target="_blank">Cape Spear </a>(the most easterly point in North America!), and The Rooms for great views and to get your bearings. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNC8dCyLl39E8jf-V0P0OTNS1X5rOveOgZM6wR5cLwYs-1gw3YqU9bmf4zueHzogXGWawrNOmYRAIB_Nipt-shYhWsl6yhQGHw5M612_ZJ8p8YT803LDUBGqm3GEGuq0qRa3K9ilHcyld/s1600/View+from+the+Rooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNC8dCyLl39E8jf-V0P0OTNS1X5rOveOgZM6wR5cLwYs-1gw3YqU9bmf4zueHzogXGWawrNOmYRAIB_Nipt-shYhWsl6yhQGHw5M612_ZJ8p8YT803LDUBGqm3GEGuq0qRa3K9ilHcyld/s1600/View+from+the+Rooms.jpg" /></a>It is worth wandering around the downtown area among the houses of Jellybean Row and take in a <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/foodie-tour-saturday" target="_blank">Foodie Tour </a>to get exposure to local history and cuisine.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8MLrd22V-MufUl9lmPpUViCNX8aN0JNOtFVBOuNO2Aw9sRqS2f6cRtKoHfbLMJZaSmhGNA-iru-pMSLQom4PQXuaP98sqD8dDi7roJjiPQ_IR3VOxBEjy2gxneTmSumdS7NExwcZh9tL/s1600/Jellybean+Row.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8MLrd22V-MufUl9lmPpUViCNX8aN0JNOtFVBOuNO2Aw9sRqS2f6cRtKoHfbLMJZaSmhGNA-iru-pMSLQom4PQXuaP98sqD8dDi7roJjiPQ_IR3VOxBEjy2gxneTmSumdS7NExwcZh9tL/s1600/Jellybean+Row.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Quidi Vidi is a small, picturesque fishing village within the boundaries of the city that is worth visiting, and don't forget to go to the street with the most pubs and bars per capita of any street in North America, George Street. While you’re on George Street, don’t forget to get Screeched in! It's a "ceremony" to become an Honorary Newfoundlander and is a must-do for anyone visiting the island. There's nothing wrong with doing a shot of Screech, kissing a cod, and repeating some Newfie words you don't understand, right? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwtb2Z7094LTLJfT8MtRfg5-qUlGLCOW8FXVjQwTxKtE5aQqUDmH5-BU5XAlVIoaqy-Ivt_wBy13hte0KjcJR5GL-KIhKcY05yXOQCLEUzbJSsoXcQa8U6-TJtLUZ4GnmIIXgJR2ZgaC1/s1600/George+Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwtb2Z7094LTLJfT8MtRfg5-qUlGLCOW8FXVjQwTxKtE5aQqUDmH5-BU5XAlVIoaqy-Ivt_wBy13hte0KjcJR5GL-KIhKcY05yXOQCLEUzbJSsoXcQa8U6-TJtLUZ4GnmIIXgJR2ZgaC1/s1600/George+Street.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There are many trails around the province that take hikers along the rugged shoreline, with the 265 km East Coast Trail being the longest. The ECT is broken into sections, with the <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/camping-saturday" target="_blank">La Manche Village Path</a>, <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/stiles-cove-hike-monday" target="_blank">Stiles Cove Path</a>, and the <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/mud-immortal-and-east-coast-trail-saturday" target="_blank">Sugarloaf Path</a> being some of our favourites that are close to the city. <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/bonavista-and-trinity-weekend" target="_blank">The Skirwink Trail</a> is another trail not to be missed and is located along the cliffs near Trinity, and <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/west-coast-weekend" target="_blank">Gros Morne</a> offers a host of hiking trails on the west coast of Newfoundland. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8RimAmvzG922CjXk-FmC0pdcpXn_L5pBiSQmbahK2s4F8naVBVzq5FOuQDIM5C9hixpsK_aJm-5vw4m1QzSyr6tP1uAOK9nj9NtksCJrFEiH_Pcz1jBBL9P8-Y5_saUbnf-f9OruU_zB/s1600/Hiking+-+Skirwink+Trail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8RimAmvzG922CjXk-FmC0pdcpXn_L5pBiSQmbahK2s4F8naVBVzq5FOuQDIM5C9hixpsK_aJm-5vw4m1QzSyr6tP1uAOK9nj9NtksCJrFEiH_Pcz1jBBL9P8-Y5_saUbnf-f9OruU_zB/s1600/Hiking+-+Skirwink+Trail.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Newfoundland isn't overly developed, meaning that there is lots of room for wildlife. Whale watching is common in the spring/summer and you can usually also sea kayak in the same areas. The whale watching tours in <a href="http://www.somethingsaturdays.com/the-blog/capelin-rolling-ferryland-and-the-canada-day-long-weekend" target="_blank">Bay Bulls</a> also take you to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve which is home to North America's largest Atlantic Puffin colony, among other sea birds. On the island of Newfoundland itself, there are more moose than people and it isn't uncommon to come across them when you're driving along the highway.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwtaaCEMUv8ZQ6bELi4M6C2nZW6N8OHEqPK1bH-GCz52E2-w8Bi5h0BKvort6qtq1Axz_RTUritkop_Alrh1POKyU-bHBvydxfDkivIiDRZz5Ptn_4FPvgI4Ov6-9wLC64RKuW7MAFdHJ/s1600/Moose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwtaaCEMUv8ZQ6bELi4M6C2nZW6N8OHEqPK1bH-GCz52E2-w8Bi5h0BKvort6qtq1Axz_RTUritkop_Alrh1POKyU-bHBvydxfDkivIiDRZz5Ptn_4FPvgI4Ov6-9wLC64RKuW7MAFdHJ/s1600/Moose.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Interested in seeing icebergs? There's no guarantee you'll see an iceberg on your visit to Newfoundland, but the best time of year is late spring or early summer (May/June). Last year was a great year for them and we managed to see quite a few. If you want to see them, you'll probably have to get out of St. John's (although we had some huge ones just outside of St. John's harbour last year), with Twillingate being a top spot for iceberg-viewing. The best way to find out where the icebergs are at any given time is on <a href="http://www.icebergfinder.com/" target="_blank">Iceberg Finder</a>. It is incredibly useful!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtbue0KOgslEdJA0cldv0jWhJrhe0Pq2V6niDI-pbS3phyBbXQy-2HnCY2cuiTurcCW5rR1RUSSBWMLtNTxQBz1Tv4kCL_fHzizB5KpJ4V3rPLMUenk4A7GYQSTA7YJNfjvcRknaUtZF7/s1600/Iceberg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtbue0KOgslEdJA0cldv0jWhJrhe0Pq2V6niDI-pbS3phyBbXQy-2HnCY2cuiTurcCW5rR1RUSSBWMLtNTxQBz1Tv4kCL_fHzizB5KpJ4V3rPLMUenk4A7GYQSTA7YJNfjvcRknaUtZF7/s1600/Iceberg.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Follow along our with our Newfoundland adventures on <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/something-saturdays-7449963" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/eepdawe" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="http://www.trover.com/u/somethingsaturdays/photos" target="_blank">Trover</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We’re also planning a couple of international trips in the next two months to Mexico and Ireland, so stay tuned!</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1343677507437526741.post-54877330292933221002015-03-17T02:30:00.000-07:002015-03-17T02:30:00.709-07:00Meet Anna from Rich as Kings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZeR8FTHW_ff3l_ytVnkjgHmhwBCUWNvajGBZd8DhLnzpwH8ZZfx3EBUIttBze-yGMF5rNV65ysUbfJjSk6xMjVoiyLxaEzQU6Nj8S-Pcasj3u43A6zAaxjb6hu6J1XRPZ0fGFwpvFlvO/s1600/anna_richaskings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZeR8FTHW_ff3l_ytVnkjgHmhwBCUWNvajGBZd8DhLnzpwH8ZZfx3EBUIttBze-yGMF5rNV65ysUbfJjSk6xMjVoiyLxaEzQU6Nj8S-Pcasj3u43A6zAaxjb6hu6J1XRPZ0fGFwpvFlvO/s1600/anna_richaskings.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Tell us a little bit about yourself and your blog.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi! I'm Anna, a newlywed, native Coloradoan currently planted in Philadelphia. My husband and I love exploring the incredible food scene in this city and the lifestyle that an urban setting provides! I'm also the girl behind the lifestyle blog Rich as Kings, where I write about what I'm learning about being truly rich and living gratefully. Over there, I focus on the wealth found in good food, good perspective, & good taste. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>As a fellow foodie, are there any recipes that you keep stashed in your back pocket to fix quickly for dinner or unexpected guests?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Food is the one thing I could talk about forever--my friends make fun of how often I bring it up! For busy weeknights, I love to have my homemade enchilada sauce on hand for jazzing up chicken or the makings of a quick soup (like my <a href="http://www.richaskings.com/2015/01/roasted-butternut-squash-soup/" target="_blank">butternut squash</a> - or - chili!). We're brunch lovers on the weekends, so there's always good-quality bacon in the fridge and the basics for <a href="http://www.richaskings.com/2015/02/spicy-baked-huevos-rancheros/" target="_blank">huevos</a> in the pantry.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>I love <a href="http://www.richaskings.com/2015/01/got-perfect-job-none-credentials/" target="_blank">this post</a> about how you landed your job! What advice do you have for upcoming grads on the job hunt?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thank you! Gosh, my job hunt was such a rollercoaster. My absolute, number one, without-a-doubt piece of advice is to be confident. If confidence doesn't come naturally to you, practice it. Practice in front of the mirror, in front of your mom, your cat--whatever. But practice it until you truly feel it, because your interviewers will feel it too. My other advice is to treat your job hunt as a job. Take it seriously and pour your best energy into it. After your twentieth resume and cover letter revision, it's easy to become complacent. Do your best to select your applications carefully--quality over quantity is far more likely to get you noticed and into an interview.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>How do you take your tea/coffee/latte?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My morning coffee is never sweetened, always creamy (I prefer whole or almond milk), my afternoon espresso is a double, and my evening tea is plain and minty.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>If you could have lunch with one person, who would it be and why?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Am I allowed to say my mom? My mom is amazing. And as much as I love Philadelphia, I've still got a Colorado-shaped hole in my heart that always aches a little bit for her kitchen with the view of the mountains. To sit down over afternoon coffee and one of her famous sandwiches this afternoon would fill my heart right up.</div>
Stamp in My Passporthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01081641375165955702noreply@blogger.com0