• Traveling to Cabo During the Corona Virus Pandemic
    Mexico,  Travel

    Traveling to Cabo During the Coronavirus Pandemic

    Traveling to Cabo during the Coronavirus Pandemic either seems like a really crazy idea or one of the best ideas we’ve had all year! With the pandemic nearing 8 months, many are itching for some time away. Because most other countries are closed to US citizens, many travelers have set their sites south of the border. Since opening it’s border in June, Mexico is currently one of the only countries available for American travelers. Before I go any further I want to say, the intention of this article is not to encourage those in high-risk categories to jump on a plane to Mexico. However, everyone has to assess their own…

  • My charcuterie platter on board Alaska Airlines
    Keto,  Lunch,  Travel

    Charcuterie at 35,000 feet

    Why settle for some prepackaged airline snack box when you can enjoy a delicious charcuterie tray at 35,000 feet! Sure you could grab a fast food meal from the airport food court, but with a little pre-planning you will be dining in style on your next flight. Does this seem a little over the top? Maybe, but you will thank me when you are eating this while the person across the isle is cracking open their tiny bag of of allergen friendly snacks. Customize your tray with exactly what your traveling heart desires. Food allergies? No problem. You are in complete control of this meal and can cater it to…

  • Jamaica Iced Tea Recipe
    Food,  Mexico,  Recipes

    Jamaica Iced Tea Recipe

    Jamaica is a hibiscus iced tea drink made from dried hibiscus flowers or “Flor de Jamaica.” Not to be confused with the Caribbean island, this drink is pronounced ha-MY-cah in Spanish. When steeped in boiling water the dark red petals makes a deliciously refreshing beverage with many health benefits. Hibiscus petals are high in vitamin C, contain diuretic properties, aid in digestion, but also can be used to stabilize high blood pressure and as an artery and kidney purifier. Jamaica is a popular drink in Mexico We tried this drink back in 2011, while on an art walk in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. One of the downtown boutiques was…

  • Sunflowers with a view of Mt Hood
    Food,  Garden,  Oregon,  Wine Tasting

    A Visit to The Grateful Vineyard in Hood River

    An early fall visit to The Grateful Vineyard yields fields of sunflowers with a stunning view of Mt Hood. The Grateful Vineyard has been open since 2019 and can be found on-site at Mt View Orchards in Hood River. Reservations at Grateful Vineyard fill up fast on the weekend. If you don’t mind a more casual dining experience, there are picnic tables set out so you can still enjoy your take-out with an amazing Mt Hood view. The staff was so friendly and explained all their seasonal offerings, including their delicious selection of hard ciders. Their cider menu includes peach, cranberry, blackberry and their house cider Golden Row Cider, made from…

  • Koosah and Sahalie Hiking guide
    Hiking Adventures,  Hiking Guides,  Oregon

    Koosah and Sahalie Falls Hiking Guide

    The Koosah and Sahalie Falls hiking trail is more like a relaxing walk than a hike. Consequently, it’s great for all skill levels. The McKenzie river is a 90-mile tributary of the Willamette River and runs through old growth forest, waterfalls, and brilliant blue pools of water. The McKenzie River Recreation Trail is a 24 mile trail used by hikers and mountain bikers that runs along the McKenzie River. One of the most popular section includes Koosah and Sahalie Falls. This trail offers two great waterfalls on one beautiful riverside trail. Another longer trail (9.5 miles) includes Koosah, Sahalie and Tamolich Falls. Check out this hiking guide to learn more…