Why I Still Act Like a Tourist in DC.

As a life-long Maryland resident (except for those 3 years in Tennessee and those two years in Texas), I've visited DC so many times, I've lost count. While most of my excursions have taken place in or around the National Mall, I could probably drive my way to the Tidal Basin blindfolded at this point in my life. I've gone during the summer in the scorching heat, in the winter with the bitter cold, and during spring nights when the air is fresh and alive. I've visited for field trips, dates, personal fulfillment and even now as a faculty member chaperoning students.


But every time I visit, I almost always make sure to still act like a tourist. Why? Because I've realized something during my travels that has always made me sit back and scratch my head.

Locals act indifferent. Joggers run on the National Mall only paying attention to their breathing and the path in front of them, but I rarely see any of them looking around them at where they are, the architecture of the buildings, the groups of people they pass by. Drivers - well, they're a whole different breed. I understand you can't always take in the sights while dealing with DC traffic, but that doesn't necessarily dictate the attitude in which you handle it. Businessmen and women jet in and out of passersby, head down, walking to lunch or back to the office.

I find myself doing it too, but at home. How often have I gone up and down those roads to and from work without actually noticing what's going on in my periphery? I'm sure someone could be standing on a cow riding right beside the road some mornings and I would never even take a passing glance.

DC has always held this sense of wonder for me. It holds knowledge, resonates power, and gives off a vibe of not caring about anyone else. It's a memorial to great leaders, the men and women who have fought and died for our nation, and a promise of democracy and protection. So yes, every time I see the Capitol Building, rain or shine, scaffolding or not, you will see me with my camera in hand preparing to take a picture. I have 100 other pictures exactly like it, but those were from 100 different trips that I took. And I know, I know. Thomas Jefferson's face never changes as he looks out over the Tidal Basin, but that doesn't mean I don't want another snapshot of it.

I've become comfortable with the concept of looking like a tourist wherever I go (but travel safe - don't make yourself a huge target) because that means that I'm attempting to take in all of the beautiful things around me. It's a challenge to see the positives, to look at the same things from a different perspective or angle, and to avoid indifference. I visited DC a week ago today, and even though I could tell all the students where to go to find what they were looking for, no one else would have known by the way I was walking around - stopping to take pictures left and right, gawking at the way the buildings looked against the cool winter sky.

So, if anything, I want to challenge you, fellow travelers, to still act like a tourist. Whether it's in your hometown, any time you visit somewhere new, or even on your drive to work. Try to find something slightly different in your day-to-day. As a student once challenged me, "find the art in everyday." So, what are you doing to find the art today?

Happy adventuring! xoxo

P.S. These pictures are from my phone, sooo that explains the quality.

        

As promised, I'm going to give you my ultimate Holiday albums for this time of year. My preferred type of holiday music is more old school, with the big band and sultry voices of Frank, Dean, and Ella, but I'll also try to include other musical styles as well. Whether you're on the road to see your family for the festivities, hanging at home, or just taking a cruise around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights, these are my top 10 Christmas albums that, without a doubt, put me in the holiday spirit.


10. Merry Christmas - Mariah Carey

You can't have a festive Christmas album without the big sound that Mariah Carey brings. Her voice is so fluid, rich, and warm. Paired with the atmosphere of Christmas, you can't go wrong. As well, after hearing "All I Want for Christmas Is You" on the radio so many times, there gets a point where you eventually just have to know what the rest of the album sounds like. Although she has a Vol. II out, I'm definitely talking about the original from 1994.

iTunes Price: $7.99


9. That's Christmas to Me - Pentatonix

Winners of NBC's Sing-Off in 2011, the A Capella group came out with a much-anticipated Christmas album. With the absence of instruments, their voices shine wonderfully. I had the privilege of listening to this album at least twice in one afternoon because Robby's sister had just gotten the album, and it certainly creates an upbeat atmosphere. For those that appreciate the capabilities of the human voice, this album is excellent an excellent addition. Some of my favorites are "White Winter Hymnal" and "Mary, Did You Know?" Also, their rendition of "Winter Wonderland" combines with Bob Marley's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" for a surprisingly festive blend of the two.

iTunes Price: $7.99


8. White Christmas - Martina McBride

This album carries a lot of nostalgia for me. My mother loves Martina McBride, so there were many a Christmas season where we listened to this collection while putting up the tree, and hanging the ornaments. Martina McBride, though usually associated with the Country music genre, provides a sound that everyone can certainly enjoy. It always made me want to cuddle up in cozy socks, with a cup of something warm, and have a good book to enjoy by a wonderful fire. Enjoyed best with snow falling!

iTunes Price: $9.99


7. Faith - Kenny G.

Oh, Kenny G. This album was released in 1999, and it's always been a favorite of mine. The way he plays the saxophone has gotten him worldwide fame, but in his holiday collection, it's such a classy blend of all the great holiday songs. I've always LOVED his Millennium Mix of Auld Lang Syne. It has radio recordings of all the great and terrible moments from the past century, and always gets me emotional. Also, the fact that he includes "We Three Kings" paired with "Carol of the Bells" is wonderful. I grew up singing the former in church and playing the latter in my high school bell choir (nerd alert). If you're a fan of a more classical take, then this album, if not already in your collection, certainly should be.

iTunes Price: $9.99


6. Christmas - Michael Bublé

Deemed as a modern-day Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé is, by now, a household name. His warmth, energy, and overall sound is exquisite. And, of course, his Christmas album is NO exception. Released in 2011, this is a definite must-have if you're into that old school, classic big band sound. He covers all of the classics, has guest appearances by Shania Twain, Thalia and the Puppini Sisters and even includes a Christmas Greeting on his deluxe album.

iTunes Price: $7.99/$14.99 (deluxe)




5. Oh For Joy - David Crowder Band

Bringing their eclectic folk-country-electric-rock style to a Christmas album, I've thoroughly enjoyed putting this arrangement of songs on over the holidays, especially when driving around light-seeking. It only includes 8 songs, but they are nothing short of upbeat and fun. From their first song, "Joy to the World," to their last, they add magic to the holiday songs you've been familiar with your whole life. I love it. They are a Christian band, and their songs represent the meaning of the holiday for us believers.

iTunes Price: $5.99


4. Noël - Josh Groban

Who can talk about a big sound without mentioning Josh Groban? His voice is phenomenal anyway, but paired with Christmas music?! Stop. As soon as his album came out in 2007, you can bet I was ALL over it. He has guest voices from Brian McKnight to Faith Hill, and all of those classic favorites. My personal favorites are probably the Scottish twist he adds to "Little Drummer Boy" and his deliverance of Ave Maria. Also, the beauty of including our troops and their Christmas messages to their families in "I'll be Home for Christmas" is an original tribute to the fact that this particular holiday song was written for our troops who were fighting in WWII. I love this album! It is always in my car around this time of year, and constantly on whenever the family and I go looking at Christmas lights. Just . . . I always need this album in my life. Always.

iTunes Price: $7.99


3. Ella Wishes You a Swingin' Christmas - Ella Fitzgerald

#1 - it's Ella Fitzgerald, #2 - it has that beautiful retro sound, and #3 - the album transports you back to a classy, much simpler time where everything was different. This is my go-to if I'm cleaning my house or having company over for a relaxing, intimate evening. If you enjoy those big band sounds, as I've alluded to a ton of times already, you honestly cannot go wrong with Ella. She has such a lovely, silky voice and jovial, holiday style. Another LOVE for the Christmas album.

iTunes Price: $7.99



2. Holiday For Swing! - Seth MacFarlane

First, let me start off by saying . . . WHAT. I'll be honest. I'm not a big Seth MacFarlane fan. I think his comedy is distasteful and his shows are offensive. To be honest, I don't pay much attention to him. But to have gone this long without knowing he can sing the way he can (I mean, I guess an effect of avoiding him) seems ridiculous. I originally heard him promoting his album on the Elvis Duran in the Morning Show without knowing it was him until they said his name. I drove the rest of the way to work in disbelief that he could make an album that rivaled the sounds of the Rat Pack. So again I say . . . WHAT. That day, I previewed it on YouTube and decided I needed it in my collection. What's cool and makes his album different is that he pays attention to holiday songs that don't get a lot of recognition and then adds his own twist to it while still including the big band element. It's awesome! He also has special guests Norah Jones and Sara Bareilles. I see you Seth MacFarlane, I see you.

iTunes Price: $7.99


1. Christmas with the Rat Pack - Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Dean Martin

I mean, were you surprised? This has almost always been the constant in my CD player in my car as soon as December 1 hits. I literally look forward to this album with stupid excitement as soon as November rolls around. I refuse to listen to Christmas music before Thanksgiving, but my goodness, it's almost like a drug the moment I hear Dean's voice come over the speakers singing "Let It Snow!" I melt every time. Also, "The Christmas Waltz" has to be one of my all-time favorite songs ever. I have yet to find someone who can sing it as well as Frank. And who doesn't want to start slow dancing with your special someone when Sammy Davis, Jr. sings "The Christmas Song"? C'mon now! It's just perfection. Perfection.

iTunes Price: $9.99


I hope you enjoyed my Christmas Tunes list! Clearly, I'm a little biased when it comes to my type of holiday music. Some honorable mentions would have to include Rend Collective - Campfire Christmas, Vol. I, Andrea Bocelli - My Christmas, and the holiday albums by Frank Sinatra, Nat "King" Cole, and Tony Bennett. Other artists that have a different sound, whose holiday albums I've also thoroughly found enjoyable are: James Taylor, She & Him, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Sufjan Stevens. An album with various female artists singing lovely Christmas songs is: Winter Songs. It's definitely worth a look into!

Happy Holidays! I hope you're able to spend them surrounded by loved ones, or at least people who make you feel warm inside! Later this month, I'm going to include what my mother and I are making for the holidays (since we always make something for our family) and my New Years' Eve plans. Stay tuned and Happy Adventuring! xoxo

October, Part II - Elk Neck State Park

The last weekend in October was homeleave, so my friends and I went camping. It was much needed for all of us, and who doesn't enjoy relaxing by a camp fire in an over-sized sweatshirt and roasting marshmallows?

We went to Elk Neck State Park in eastern Maryland. Robby's family is actually from that area, so while for the rest of us, it was somewhere new, for him, it felt much like home. For five people, it averaged out to $10 for the whole weekend (not including the food we bought). Who can beat that, though?? We made delicious campfire food in aluminum foil, and went for a beautiful hike on Saturday. Turkey Point Lighthouse is a must-see if ever you camp at the park. It's a short walk (a little less than 3/4 of a mile), and when you come out to the lighthouse, you're struck with the view of the bay from this amazing cliff. Also, the lighthouse is open on certain weekends of the month - you'll have to visit the website here for more information.

I had so much planned for this post when I originally got back, like the recipes we used, and other things to do in the area . . . but alas, time has taken away the effort I would have put into it on the Monday after.

The link to Elk Neck State Park's website is here - I do encourage you, if you're a Marylander or even an eastern PA or DE resident, to take a look and spend a weekend there. They also have fishing spots, hiking trails, and primitive camping options. Maryland is such a beautiful state, and I'm always taken back by its beauty in the changing seasons. Make sure, as the weather's getting colder, that you're staying bundled up, but that you're taking the time to enjoy the small things and getting out there to adventure!

Later this month, I think I'll be posting my top Christmas albums to use when traveling or light-seeking :) Happy Holidays! xoxo

October, Part I

I know . . . it's December. And I'm posting about October. It's embarrassing to think that I've managed to get this far behind. The truth is I've been struggling with reasonable life management this semester - time management, monetary management . . . I'm losing control of my life. (lol - it's not that serious.)

Hancock, MD

Anyway, the first post from October is about Senior Survival. As a Senior Class Sponsor this year, I'm part responsible for 26 young people. Since we're a smaller private academy, we get to do cool things like take a class trip or have field trips that are more intimate and less crazy. Something they do every year is this thing called Senior Survival. It's essentially a weekend of "roughing it" and allowing for class bonding. One of the other sponsors (there are three of us total) decided it would be nice to bike ~75 miles of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal that follows the Potomac River. We started at McCoy's Ferry in MD and stopped at Spring Gap, MD. A small group of three continued on to the beginning in Cumberland.

Hancock, MD

I, however, did not bike. The other sponsor ended up having a serious form of the flu, and just couldn't make it on the trip. His job was to drive a chase vehicle with everyone's crap in it (food, sleeping stuff, etc.), and when I say chase vehicle, I mean a mini-bus. I had never driven this vehicle, and it always daunted me when I thought about driving it, but alas. It became my job. Stupid me didn't pack a book or homework because it happened all kind of last-minute, and cell phone service was rough, but it ended up being a good trip.

If ever you want to plan a biking trip along the C&O Canal, October is definitely a wonderful time to do it. It's just getting chilly and the leaves have started to change. The scenery that I did see was beautiful! But avoiding the sore rump was also a pleasant positive of getting to drive the bus. Always check with your local National Park Service for advisories, tips, and helpful information to stay safe. And, if biking, always have someone chasing you in a vehicle with medical and biking supplies in case something happens. Someone should always know where you'll be!

I hope your holiday season is going well! Thanksgiving for me kicked off a wonderful start, and so far, the season has been wonderfully paced - not too fast, and certainly never too slow. Happy Adventuring! xoxo

The seniors that survived!

Frederick, MD: A Walking Tour

This past Sunday was Robby and I's 3-year dating anniversary. With how stressful everything has been between work and school, I asked him to plan the day for us. I had originally chosen two things, and both had fallen through. However, I'm glad it worked out that way because we took in a side of Frederick that neither of us really had seen before.

You may recall my post from February of the Carroll Creek Promenade and visiting the Delaplaine Visual Arts Education Center. It was much different in the late summer, and much more lively. We walked along the promenade for a bit, but also stopped at a bunch of other incredibly quaint places. Most of our adventures took place on or just off of Market Street.

Our first stop was the Mount Olivet Cemetery, across from the Frederick Keys baseball stadium. Francis Scott Key, the writer of our National Anthem, is buried there with his wife. Thankfully the big event celebrating the 200th anniversary of when it was written was on Saturday, so most of the people had left by the time we got there. With tombstones dating back into the early 1700s and some even in the late 1600s, it's such a cool place to visit. I had no idea there was so much history so close!

We parked in the Church Street garage and walked. We went to Firestone's Market on Market, a cute little market that has organic foods, local beer, and interesting items (olive oil on tap and jelly body butter). Almost right next store was Zoë's Chocolates - it has given chocolate to the Emmys and the Oscars. Robby got me a small box of chocolates. They have a unique selection, but their Fleur de Sel Caramel chocolates were amazing. Next, we walked further down to the North Market Pop Shop. It literally has pop in their old-time glass bottles, and almost any flavor or brand you can think of. Robby settled for a Frostie's Root Beer and I chose a Leninade. It was a refreshing, retro-feel stop that gave us a boost.

Off of Market, we walked up Patrick Street to the corner of Court Street to see, in front of the court house, a statue of the original first President of the United States . . . I'm not entirely sure, as a history major, how I feel about it, but it's a statue of John Hanson. He was technically the first president, but under the Articles of Confederation. We weren't entirely the "United States," but I guess it was close enough. His house is also right in front of the court house, on Patrick Street. So, if you're curious about John Hanson, you can probably tour his house and learn more!

After walking, we ate at Brewer's Alley. It was the first microbrewery in Frederick, so the history continued. Robby was probably more excited about the brewery aspect than I was. The area surrounding the bar is more modern, with rustic wood and brick, but when you get back into the dining area, it looks dated to the 60's or 70's. The food is mildly expensive, but the beer isn't and the menu sounds wonderful. I got a fajita salad, which was alright, but I have a feeling they have some better options that I'll have to try next time.

All in all, it was a wonderful way to spend celebrating 3 years. Downtown Frederick is full of so many things to do. If you're still interested in what else there is to offer, Trip Advisor is probably your best place to start. OR, Frederick's city and tourism websites. Enjoy the transition from summer to fall, and happy traveling!

Chattanooga In A Flash

Chattanooga, TN is one of my all-time favorite places on earth. It has that cozy deep-in-the-south atmosphere, downtown is highly photogenic, and everything from its entertainment to its restaurants are full of variety and charm. It was also recently mentioned in National Geographic Traveler's October 2014 issue as one of 50 cities all over the world that offers something surprising. High-speed internet everywhere, and wonderful hiking and biking along the Tennessee River. I love Chattanooga.

I was recently invited to a wedding a week ago from today, to which I enthusiastically responded "yes" to before I even knew the time or (at that point) the date. I vowed that, after having missed two weddings this summer, I was not going to miss this one. When the postcard invite arrived in the mail, I looked at only two things: the location and the date. August 24, at The Well in Downtown Chattanooga. Done. I would be there. I told my friends who were moving down to my Alma Mater that if they needed to leave anything behind, I would be more than happy to take things down. And, of course, they took me up on it. I had a cozy trunk full of things to accompany me. Plus, Robby decided to come along because he'd never been. And his sister was one of these friends moving down there.

However, I failed to look at the time, which was quite tragic. It's about an 8.5 hour drive from my neck of the woods, and school had already started for me (I'm a teacher, in case this hasn't been mentioned before). I hadn't gotten a sub because I was planning on coming back Sunday night right after the wedding. I had assumed (and we know what that makes me) that it would be early to mid-afternoon, and I could leave maybe around 5 at the latest to make it home at a still semi-decent hour to function the next morning. To my dismay, the wedding didn't start until 5:30 PM. It broke my heart to have to tell the lovely bride and groom I couldn't make it, but I still had people counting on me to bring things down.

So, why the heck not. Robby and I made a flash-trip to Chattanooga. We stayed less than 24 hours, and I was able to give him an infinitesimally small taste of the wonderful things the city of my heart had to offer. Of course, now he wants to go back, which was 100% my intention, and next time for much longer. We mostly walked around, stopped at a local brewery (Big River Brewery and Pub), and went back to see our friends and/or family on campus. Here are places I suggest if ever you find yourself in the lovely city of Chattanooga:

• For Great Eats: Stop at places like Thai Smile, Taco Mac, Sugar's Ribs, Mellow Mushroom, Big River Brewery and Pub, The Yellow Deli, and Hill City Pizza in the Downtown area for something a little outside the ordinary.
• For Delectable Desserts: Clumpie's Ice Cream, Milk & Honey, The Ice Cream Shoppe or Rembrandt's Café offer wonderful local atmospheres with great selections that everyone should enjoy.
• Other Enjoyments: the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga is located downtown. If you're there at the right time, you can catch a Mocs game and tour the campus. The Chattanooga Lookouts Baseball team is also another fun summer event to check out. Going to the Tennessee Aquarium, walking through the Art District or hanging out in Coolidge Park are all equally great things that can be done. You could easily spend a long weekend just in Downtown.
• Historical Sites: Lookout Mountain offers a ton of Civil War history, and not too far away is the Chickamauga Battlefield. There are also a lot of Cherokee historical sites in the area. Red Clay Park, outside of Collegedale, offers a great place to picnic that's also rich with Native American history.
• Tourist Attractions: Ruby Falls and Rock City are other places that draw in crowds. I've been to Ruby Falls quite a long time ago. It's a fun experience, and definitely something good for the family.
• Gunbarrel Road: This is the shopping strip. It has your common stores such as Target and Wal-Mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, and World Market. Hamilton Place Mall is also there, with a great selection of shops, and Barnes and Noble close by. There are also a ton of great places to eat. Some of my favorites in that area are Sticky Fingers, Gigi's Cupcakes, and The Melting Pot ($$$$). My all-time favorite organic grocery store is also on that strip: Earth Fare. 

Chattanooga is a great city. I cannot say it enough. From the southern hospitality to the great barbecue, it's worth a visit any time of the year.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Labor Day weekend! So sad to see another summer go, but hopefully this opens the doors to a new set of adventures. Happy traveling!

Annapolis, MD

I can't believe it's August already. Summer has flown by so quickly! Pre-session starts tomorrow (!!!), and I'm trying anything to not think about it for fear I'll fall into a bout of depression. Thankfully, my last rendezvous for the summer happened to be to Annapolis. I love, love, love this town. Even though it's the capital city of Maryland, it holds a tight-knit vibe for me. Maybe it's because I've only visited in the summer when school isn't in session, or maybe it's the location on the water, but I love it. Have I said that enough? I love this town.

Anyway, my family and I went, and we visited the Naval Academy (this was my first time inside - unbelievable!), the State House, and of course walked up and down Main Street for its stretch of shops and restaurants. We also stopped by the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium (but they were having a crab feast), and the Westfield Annapolis Mall. Here are some tips, details, and ideas for places to go and things to do while you're there!

Chapel at the USNA

• Set Sail. If you're in for an aquatic journey, Annapolis is your place. With guided tours, boat charters, sailing schools, fishing excursions and kayak rentals, there is literally something available for every type of nautical adventurer.
• Maryland State House. We Marylanders have a lot of pride in many things: our flag, our crabbing industry, our football and baseball teams, and our beer to name a few. However, the Maryland State House is truly a state treasure. It's the oldest state capital in continuous legislative use and the only state capitol to ever serve as the U.S. capitol. The first legislative meeting was held in 1779, and it features the largest wooden dome in the country. So, of course, it only makes sense that it's a National Historic Landmark :) Make sure you have your ID handy for a security check-in.
• City Dock. It's amazing to walk along the city dock. You can lust after the yachts, sailboats and fishing boats parked there, or just take in the Bay Bridge in the distance. There is also a bit of history to learn about too. With its Alex Haley memorial, a commemoration to the 1767 arrival of Kunta Kinte, and its replica Skipjack that John Smith used when exploring the area in the early 1600s, boat and people watching doesn't have to be your only option.
• U.S. Naval Academy. If you're anything like me, there's a deep respect that is felt when in the presence of men and women who decide to give their lives (even if it is for a minimum of 4 years) to serve their country. Visiting the US Naval Academy was a truly incredible experience. It was something I wanted to do at one point in my life. There are so many cool things to see. At noon, you get to hear the students read the menu in front of Bancroft Hall. You can tour their decadent chapel and visit the crypt of John Paul Jones. You can also take a walk around their training complexes and peruse the scenery along College Creek where the rowing teams train. If you want an official tour, that costs $10, and can be purchased (along with your Navy gear) at the visitor's center. Check out the museum they have there as well. Just remember to bring an officially issued ID (aka. a driver's license, etc).
• Main Street. From souvenir shops to candy stores to great restaurants, there is a little of everything for everyone. All along the dock, there are also places to shop and eat. If you're into Man vs. Food from the Discovery Channel, Chick and Ruth's Delly on Main is where host Adam Richman defeated their Colossal Challenge - you have one hour to eat a 1lb. burger and a 6lb. milkshake. It's a fast-paced joint with deli-style food. There is also Kilwin's, a chain candy place that makes fresh fudge, caramel apples, truffles, and any other decadent dessert you could think of. I got a Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple that was to diiiie for. Another favorite of mine that sits on the corner of Cornhill and Fleet streets is Capital Teas - it has a great selection of, you guessed it, teas from all over the world, unique tea pots, and other nifty gadgets for a tea lover. Along with blown glass, hats, pottery and clothes, Main Street and its surrounding area shops are a fun place to browse.
• For more information, visit the city of Annapolis's website!

the Crypt of John Paul Jones

Kilwin's Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple 10/10

From the USNA Visitor's Center Museum

Easy Street Gallery on Francis Street

Bancroft Hall - USNA

The surrounding areas of Annapolis are also really nice too. You can visit Baltimore, DC, or just peruse around Anne Arundel County. There are a lot of significant places dealing with colonial and Civil War history, great shopping, and quaint towns that are ready to be explored.

Chapel at the USNA

In the Senate Chambers at the State House!

Happy Traveling, folks! xoxo