Snow Day

It has been such a glorious and lazy Saturday. I woke up to snow already falling, and it's been coming down pretty steady ever since. Bagheera and I have been surfing social media, watching Anthony Bourdain's Places Unknown on Netflix and eating junk food . . . all in our PJs. I recently purchased a book called A Beautiful Mess Photo Idea Book, and it's exactly what it sounds like. It was created by the lovely ladies from A Beautiful Mess, an online blog that I recently discovered (I'm a little late on the train, I guess) and love! It's made me want to fall in love with my camera all over again, and experiment with it in ways I was too afraid before. Although it's been snowy outside, I've been trying to keep my mind busy inside, and when Anthony's wit was getting to me, I stepped away from my computer and started snapping some pictures. So, I'm going to try to pair my pictures with some things to keep you occupied on a snowy day inside. Or, to just update on the things I've been filling my little bit of extra time with (while also showing you my living space too).

Sort through your magazines. If you're like me, then you have piles of magazines that need looking through and gotten rid of. I have a hard time parting with them because there are always so many useful things that I think, "Oh, but one day, I'll want to refer back them for X project or Y recipe." And maybe one day I will, but that's why I have files for those sorts of things. I don't need the whole entire magazine, ads and all. So, it's always nice when I find the time to read through, and rip out the pages with the delicious-sounding recipes or interesting decorating ideas, and then discard the rest.

Catch up on social media. I seem to be finding more and more blogs or YouTube channels to follow lately, and then always find that I'm just too busy to keep up with them. My weekends are usually the time I have to catch up with the blog posts or the videos, and it's always so enjoyable. I like to have a warm mug of tea handy, and a cozy sweatshirt to snuggle into. Some of my favorite blogs/YouTubers lately have been: (1) Maiedae, a creatives-driven website run by two best friends who are also new moms. I find their pictures, print shop, and posts to be absolutely beautiful. (2) A Beautiful Mess, along the same lines (and I think the inspiration to) Maiedae. (3) PostSecret, my ritual Sunday morning reading. (4) Domestically Blissful, a blog full of vegetarian and vegan recipes run by a former classmate. Her recipes sound delicious and her pictures and advice are lovely. (5) Jenna Marbles because who doesn't like a little bit of outrageousness and laughter? (6) John Oliver, originally a part of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he broke away to make his own faux-news show/youtube channel. I love his brutal honesty, but also his cynical style of delivering news is fantastic. (7) Jaclyn Hill for when I want to learn new make-up techniques from da best. Seriously, I love her personality and her make-up styles are out of this world. (8) Lastly, Makeup by Alli, another make-up channel. She's a bit more toned down and natural in her style. I like her aura and the looks she creates :)

Go Shopping. Online, of course. I recently purchased some great online things (and scoping out more as we speak). I picked up probably my favorite calendar of ALL time from Rifle Paper Co., and I already can't wait until the year is over so I can frame the pictures. They are SO gorgeous! I also got a little notepad that brightens up even the most dreary winter's day when I use it. The next thing wasn't an online purchase, but can be found there, and was picked up the last time I was at World Market, I found these adorable burlap star lights that just add the right kind of homeyness to my dining room. Click the links to access the goods! Other online shopping favorites are Target (they're having a great sale on beautiful weekend and tote bags from Faribault, a Minnesota Wool Mill company), Herschel Supply Co., and Lush.

Tend to your houseplants. My usual houseplant water day used to be Wednesday, and then I had classes on Wednesday nights. Then, it was Thursday. But then those ended up being one of my heavier homework nights. Then, it moved to Fridays, and sometimes it stays Fridays. However, most of the time, I find myself having the most time to actually prune, water, and turn/move my houseplants on the weekends. I pruned my orchid, and straightened up my succulents this afternoon, and felt incredibly accomplished afterward.

Clean your spaces. Only if you must! But sometimes the best way to ensure a complete day or evening of relaxation is to clean your space! I know if I'm trying to study or be productive, I have to clean whichever room I'm in to ensure the utmost amount of productivity. Even if what you're doing is anti-productive, being able to go to sleep that night knowing cleaning won't be waiting for you in the morning can sometimes be the best lullaby.

Cozy up and watch some movies! If all else fails, make some delicious food and have a movie marathon. That's always one of my favorite things to do on lazy weekends, but especially if it's snowing outside.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope you're staying warm, especially if you're on the East Coast where the snow just won't seem to let up. I keep on having such scandalous thoughts of spring - oh, to be able to open my windows and let the crisp new air with its beautiful freshness come and dance through my house. To see flowers poking through the soil, and spreading their gorgeous petals toward the sunshine. Shorts, skirts, and t-shirts without long sleeves! I cannot wait! Oh, and let's not talk about breaking out the flip-flops.

Here are some more photographs that I took from today (or another day *ahem* the first one below)! :)

Playing around with light, thanks my new photo book! Who thought I'd be messing around with the ISO settings, what?!

I love the fact that my house is old enough to have these radiators as a source of heat.
They're beautiful, and unique and add such a great vibrance to each room.

A sign a former student gave me as a thank-you gift. I have it hanging in my office.

Star Lights from World Market!

My cilantro is making a comeback :)

In my office - these signs were projects that my US History students did. They had to recreate WWII Propaganda posters, adding their own flair of creativity.

Happy adventuring! xoxo

Longhorns and Legacies

A week ago today, I was in the air on my way back from a wonderful trip to Texas. The high school I work at was taking their students to a basketball tournament at Southwestern Adventist University, and I happened to secure an extra ticket. I didn't go as a chaperone, a sponsor, or anything remotely affiliated with HVA, because, well, I had other intentions. Some of my students from JCA now attend Southwestern, the ticket price was cheap, and I just couldn't pass it up. I accurately managed to convince them I wasn't coming down, and then surprised everyone. It was such a perfect trip that filled my heart to the brim with love, laughter, and joy. I was able to see my students and old co-workers who still live in the DFW area. I left feeling incredibly fulfilled and like maybe, just maybe, I could make it through the rest of the school year.

While I was down, my old roommate and I took a day to explore a few things from Fort Worth and Dallas. We only had a day, so we didn't see a ton, but what I did see left me excited for a more in-depth experience the next time. I've been into downtown Dallas before, but not much in Fort Worth. So, here's my tips on what to see and do next time you find yourself in the DFW area!

Fort Worth
1. Go to the historic Stockyards. When my roommate, Melissa, told me about how LIVE Longhorns are taken down the center of the street in the Stockyards, I almost lost my mind. "Really?! Live cows down the center of the street?!" She looked at me as any person would look at a slightly deranged tourist and replied, "They're not cows, Ashley. They're Longhorns." This was such a cool thing to see! And it's exactly how it sounds. Of course, it's solely a touristy thing, but it was certainly an experience worth the time. Also around the Stockyards is Billy Bob's, which is Texas's largest honky tonk; The White Elephant Saloon, where the first major gun fight in Ol' Texas broke out and where some episodes of Walker, Texas Ranger was filmed; Leddy's Boots and Saddles, which literally has wall-to-wall selections of boots, saddles, suits, and other fine items; and, if you're lucky, you can drop in on a live auction - fast-talking auctioneers and all.

Loved photographing this guy! He had the perfect Texas accent, and was such a trooper! Totally ready for a photo-op!

2. Sundance Square. In the spring and summer, this beautiful city square seems idyllic for coffee and a nice evening with friends. The mural, the water, and the overall atmosphere makes you feel like you're not in the center of a huge metropolitan area, and gives you the opportunity to pleasantly recharge amid the bustle. According to Melissa, it's also a great place to sit and enjoy the live music you can hear wafting through the streets on summer evenings.

3. Fort Worth Water Gardens. These were beautiful! Even though the leaves were all off the trees, this would probably be the Central Park to my New York City if I lived in Fort Worth. The movement and the sound of rushing water is lovely. Visiting convinced me to work on my photography so that next time, I can get those wonderful shots of water rushing in a long-exposure picture. It's going to happen. Anyway, it's definitely worth a visit and from atop of its highest point, you can get some stunning panoramas of the city.

Dallas

1. Dealy Plaza & the Sixth Floor Museum. Even though I have mixed feelings about John F. Kennedy, seeing one of the most iconic places in US History is certainly worth the stop. It's almost breath-taking when you see the X's on the road where the gunshots were fired. Although we didn't go through the museum (which costs $16) due to time, just walking around the site and reading the plaques was fine by me. If you're into conspiracies, look for people standing on the sidewalks adjacent to the fatal X holding newspapers. They're ready and willing to tell you what they know about the assassination that took place there.

2. Meyerson Symphony Center and the Art District. Although I didn't go this time, in the years that I worked in Texas, it was an annual thing to go to the Meyerson for a concert (put on by our own students). It is a magnificent concert hall with fantastic acoustics and overall sound delivery. If you want to get dressed up and go to a symphony, do it here. It's amazing! Also, a place I will visit next time is Klyde Warren Park. Abundant with food trucks, an outdoor library and a dog park, it seems like the perfect green space in the midst of what can be a chaotic Dallas.

3. Pioneer Plaza. I only say this because I love Longhorns. I mean, I was literally squealing like a little girl in Fort Worth. These 49 bronze Longhorn statues are a dedication to Texas's lengthy "cowboy" history, and apparently one of the most photographed parts of the city. If you're not into that, I guess you could go to Arlington to check out the Dallas Cowboys' monstrosity of a stadium too . . .

Anyway, as I mentioned before, I had such a wonderful time in Texas. There are SO many things to do and see. I picked up a million and one pamphlets on the DFW area that I'll be sure to study for next time. There's the Dallas Zoo, and Six Flags Over Texas -- the list seems never-ending. And don't get me started on the cuisine! Exquisite barbecue (can exquisite even be used in front of barbecue?), live music, and quaint hole-in-the-wall coffee shops. The diversity is endless! If you're in the area, tell me what you experienced and loved, so I can add it to my list!

A glimpse at the Water Gardens.

Melissa, my former roommate and awesome tour guide.

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!

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