Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Category: Travel & Adventure

  • The Grotto of the Redemption: A Beautiful Visit in West Bend, Iowa

    The Grotto of the Redemption: A Beautiful Visit in West Bend, Iowa

    If you’re ever road-tripping through northwest Iowa—or even if you’re local like we are—the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend is one of those places you truly need to see at least once.

    People often call it the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” and The Iowan has described it as a “miracle in stone.” It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, and it’s been featured in places like Roadside America and even Disney’s The Straight Story.

    And honestly? Once you step onto the grounds, you understand why.

    What the Grotto Is Like

    Here’s what makes it so special:

    The Grotto is made up of nine separate grottos, each portraying a scene from the life of Christ. It’s part outdoor art, part faith story, and part “how did someone even build this?” kind of wonder.

    The stones, the color, the detail—there’s just something about it that makes you slow down and really take it all in.

    The Story Behind It

    The story of how the Grotto came to be is just as moving as the scenes themselves.

    As it’s commonly told, Father Paul Dobberstein became seriously ill with pneumonia as a young seminarian. During that time, he prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary, asking her to intercede for his recovery—and he made a promise: if he lived, he would build a shrine in her honor.

    He recovered, finished his studies, and after his ordination came to West Bend as pastor in 1898.

    For more than a decade, he collected rocks and precious stones. Then, in 1912, the work truly began to take permanent shape. The Grotto was designed to tell—quietly but powerfully—the story of humanity’s fall and redemption through Christ, expressed in “silent stone” that still feels deeply alive the moment you walk through it.

    A Sweet Family Connection

    Here’s a fun piece of history that makes this place even more special to me:

    My great-great-grandfather, Welt Miller, was converted to Catholicism by Father Dobberstein. He was also the county attorney, and there’s even a letter from him requesting that bears be sent from Yellowstone to the Grotto (how wild is that?).

    It was actually granted!

    There aren’t bears there anymore, of course, but I absolutely love that little piece of family history.

    My family also helped bring stones and assist with building alongside Father Dobberstein—which makes walking through the grounds feel even more meaningful, knowing how much care, time, and personal effort went into every detail.

    Why We Keep Coming Back

    My husband’s parents live near West Bend, so we try to visit in late summer—when it’s not scorching hot or overly humid, but still comfortable enough to enjoy being outside.

    It’s such a beautiful, peaceful place—meaningful and surprisingly family-friendly.

    My son is only three, but he’s completely amazed by all the rocks, sculptures, and sparkling details everywhere you look. The way the stones catch the sunlight gives everything a subtle shimmer that feels almost magical. And let’s be honest—he also loves having space to move, explore, and run around a bit (because toddlers are going to toddler).

    It really does feel like the perfect family outing—one that brings the story of Christ into your day in a way that’s visual, memorable, and grounding.

    And as a bonus, there’s a park across from the Grotto that’s perfect for a picnic—with swans that make the whole experience feel extra special, especially for little ones.

    Visiting Info

    The Grotto of the Redemption
    208 1st Avenue NW
    P.O. Box 376
    West Bend, Iowa 50597

    If you’re looking for a peaceful, meaningful day trip—something beautiful, faith-filled, and rooted in history—this Iowa hidden gem is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.

    Have you ever visited the Grotto, or is it on your Iowa bucket list? I’d love to hear!

    I share cozy Midwest travel, motherhood moments, and meaningful little places like this here on the blog. If that sounds like your kind of space, I’d love for you to subscribe and stay awhile 💛

  • 🌟 Fun Things to Do Around Ames, Iowa

    🌟 Fun Things to Do Around Ames, Iowa

    Family‑Friendly Things to Do in Ames, Iowa & Nearby Towns (Year‑Round Guide)

    There’s something special about living in a place where family‑friendly things to do in Ames, Iowa show up in small, everyday ways — a walk through Reiman, an ice cream stop in Nevada, or a pottery night that turns into a memory.

    ⭐ “Starbucks” Ice Cream — Nevada, Iowa (Near Ames)

    Best for: summer evenings • kids of all ages • short road trips
    Season: spring–fall

    Despite the name, this isn’t the coffee chain. “Starbucks” in Nevada is a cute, nostalgic, self‑serve ice cream shop just 15–20 minutes from Ames.

    Think small‑town sweetness and old‑school treat vibes. 🍨
    Just be sure to check their hours before heading out — they close for the winter months.

    🌿 Reiman Gardens — One of the Best Things to Do in Ames, Iowa

    Best for: families • dates • strollers • quiet mornings
    Season: year‑round (indoor + outdoor)

    Reiman Gardens is easily one of my favorite places in Ames. I even grabbed a membership for my son and me because we love it that much.

    It’s also home to Elwood, the World’s Tallest Concrete Gnome — whimsical, giant, and very Iowa in the best way.

    Reiman is perfect for:

    • A peaceful morning walk
    • A date
    • A family outing
    • A sweet mommy‑and‑me day
    • Seasonal displays and events all year long

    Whether you’re exploring the butterfly wing or wandering the outdoor paths, there’s always something beautiful happening — even when Iowa weather is… being Iowa.

    🎨 The Workspace at ISU Memorial Union — Indoor Activities in Ames, Iowa

    Best for: rainy days • creative kids • cozy evenings
    Season: year‑round

    When it’s too hot, too cold, too windy, or just too Iowa outside, the Workspace at the ISU Memorial Union is such a cozy, creative escape.

    Their paint‑your‑own pottery sessions are:

    • Beginner‑friendly
    • Affordable
    • Great for dates, friend nights, family nights, and solo self‑care
    • Perfect if you like leaving with a keepsake

    A warm drink + a paintbrush = an ideal low‑pressure night out.

    🌳 Explore Iowa State University — One of America’s Most Beautiful Campuses

    Best for: stroller walks • toddlers • photo walks • picnics • visitors
    Season: year‑round (especially spring & fall)

    Right in the heart of Ames sits Iowa State University, consistently ranked among the top 25 most beautiful campuses in the U.S. — and it absolutely lives up to it.

    Take time to wander:

    • Horticulture Plaza & Gardens
    • Lagomarcino Courtyards
    • The Grant Wood murals at the ISU Library
    • Central Campus
    • Lake LaVerne
    • The Campanile
    • Historic buildings + tree‑lined walking paths
    • The Horse Barns — a favorite stop for toddlers and animal‑loving kids

    No matter the season, it’s stunning — and perfect for photos, picnics, or slow, mindful walks.

    🍦 ISU Creamery — Dairy Done Right

    If you’re on campus (or just craving something delicious), swing by the ISU Creamery. They make small‑batch ice cream and dairy treats — all crafted by students.

    It’s super fresh, super creamy, and very worth it.

    🏙️ Downtown Ames — Local Shops, Food, and Walkable Fun

    Best for: shopping strolls • coffee dates • dog‑friendly outings • slow afternoons
    Season: year‑round (extra cozy in fall & winter)

    Downtown Ames is one of my favorite “any season” spots — full of charm, local shops, and reasons to linger.

    Home

    A few of my favorite stops:

    • ✨ Chocolaterie Stam — I always order a lavender‑violet‑lemon gelato drink (life‑changing), and the whole place smells like magic.
    • 🐾 Treats on a Leash — Our standard poodle, Cookie, approves of their dog bakery… maybe too much.
    • 🖋️ Heroic Ink — If you’re a tattoo or piercing person, this is the only place I trust.

    🌱 Holub’s — Plant Shop & Garden Center Near Ames, Iowa

    Best for: plant lovers • mood‑boosting outings • seasonal inspiration • families
    Season: year‑round (greenhouse makes winter especially lovely)

    Holub’s is the happiest place if you love plants — or want to pretend you do. Their selection is huge: perennials, annuals, veggies, houseplants, and all the seasonal pretties.

    Why it’s great year‑round:

    • Winter: a serotonin boost in plant form
    • Spring: all the fresh‑start energy
    • Summer: color everywhere
    • Fall: cozy mums + autumn plants

    It’s impossible to leave empty‑handed. (Or maybe that’s just me.)

    Check their hours before heading out — sometimes they close for the season based on inventory.

    🌲 Iowa Arboretum & Gardens — Near State Street and Arbor Road

    Best for: peaceful walks • picnics • nature breaks • fall color lovers
    Season: spring–fall (best in spring & fall)

    A lovely spot for a walk, lounging, or a picnic. There’s a pretty little waterfall, peaceful trails, and at the top of the hill, a sundial surrounded by a circle of benches.

    Quiet, scenic, and such a hidden gem.

    ⛪ St. Andrew’s Church — A Welcoming Community in Ames, Iowa

    Best for: families • newcomers • community connection
    Season: year‑round

    St. Andrew’s Church has been such a gift to our family. It’s one of those places where you can walk in as you are and immediately feel welcome — no pressure, no expectations, just genuinely kind people.

    What I love most is the sense of community. It’s a warm, inclusive space that truly lives out the idea of loving your neighbors, and it shows in how people are greeted, supported, and cared for.

    Why St. Andrew’s stands out:

    • A welcoming space for everyone
    • People who are truly kind, open, and down‑to‑earth
    • A strong sense of community and belonging
    • Family‑friendly and approachable

    If you’re looking for a church — or simply a place in Ames that feels grounding, supportive, and full of good humans — St. Andrew’s is worth checking out.

    🔗

    Home

    🗓️ Visiting Ames by Season

    • Winter: The Workspace, Reiman Gardens, ISU campus walks on quieter days
    • Spring: Reiman Gardens, Iowa Arboretum, downtown strolls, Holub’s greenhouse, Ada Hayden Heritage Park on warmer afternoons
    • Summer: Starbucks in Nevada, ISU Creamery, campus picnics, farmers’ markets & evening walks around Lake LaVerne
    • Fall: Arboretum colors, Reiman events, cozy downtown stops, ISU campus paths for fall foliage, and photos

    I hope this little roundup inspires you to slow down, explore, and enjoy the sweet spots tucked around Ames and the nearby towns. There’s something special about living in a place where beauty, creativity, and community show up in small, everyday ways — a walk through Reiman, an ice cream stop in Nevada, a pottery night that turns into a memory.

    If you check out any of these places, I’d love to hear what you think (or see your photos!). And if you have your own hidden gems around Ames, drop them my way — I’m always up for adding something new to our family adventures.

    Here’s to finding joy right where we are. 💛

    👇 Download the free Ames Bucket List printable — perfect for families and weekend exploring!

    ✅ Ames, Iowa Bucket ListDownload

    Want more local favorites? Subscribe for more!

  • Seals, Selkies, and a Sweet Irish Sea

    Seals, Selkies, and a Sweet Irish Sea

    Mist, Myth, and Seals: A Memory from Ireland

    I still remember the first thing that hit me.

    Not the cold Atlantic wind.
    Not the sound of waves crashing against the rocks—though they were there too.

    It was the smell.

    A soft, almost sweet scent of the ocean—salt kissed with something floral, gentle instead of sharp. It wrapped around me like a hug, the kind that lingers long after you pull away.

    And then I saw them.

    Seals on the Edge of the World

    We’d driven along the Irish coast, chasing the kind of wild, rugged beauty I’d always imagined from books and movies. You know the places I mean—the road narrows, the sky opens wide, and you can’t quite tell where the land ends and the sea begins.

    That’s exactly where we ended up.

    The air was cool and damp, the kind that settles into your hair and sweater and softens everything around you. I walked toward the overlook, my shoes crunching on the gravel, feeling the mist brush my cheeks before I even saw the water.

    And then, down below—scattered across the rocks like dark little commas on a page—were the seals.

    They lounged and wriggled, occasionally sliding into the sea with effortless grace, as if gravity had never really applied to them. Some bobbed in the water, just their heads visible, like curious neighbors peeking over a fence.

    I stood there and stared.

    Time did that strange, stretchy thing—it could’ve been two minutes or twenty. I didn’t care. I was rooted to the spot.

    The Sweet Smell of the Sea

    I’ve smelled the ocean before—but this was different.

    Maybe it was the curve of the coastline, or the way the wind carried the scent upward along the cliffs. Instead of sharp or briny, the air was gentle. Alive. It felt like the sea was breathing with me.

    Every inhale carried the faintest taste of salt, settling on my lips. Tiny droplets of mist dotted my skin. I closed my eyes for a moment and let myself be there.

    The distant roar of waves.
    The soft flap of wings overhead.
    The low murmur of nearby voices, hushed as if no one wanted to disturb the magic.

    It was one of those rare moments when everything in my body whispered, Remember this. Don’t rush. Stay.

    And I listened.

    Imagining Selkies

    As I watched the seals glide between rock and water, my mind drifted the way it always does in beautiful places—toward stories.

    In Irish and Scottish folklore, there are selkies: seal folk who can shed their skins and walk on land as humans. Creatures caught between worlds, pulled by the sea and the shore all at once.

    Standing there, it felt almost impossible not to imagine it. These weren’t just animals; they felt like quiet keepers of old stories. I pictured a selkie woman on some hidden beach, her seal skin folded beside her, staring out at the same horizon—wondering which life to choose.

    Maybe that’s what drew me in so completely. The sense that this place was layered with myth and memory. The seals became more than adorable little ocean potatoes (which—to be clear—they absolutely are). They became symbols of that in‑between space we all recognize.

    The part of me firmly rooted in Iowa—cozy, landlocked, surrounded by fields, seasons, and familiar roads.

    And the part of me that longs for the unknown: cliffs and crashing waves, legends whispered through sea mist.

    For a few quiet minutes on that cliff, both parts of me felt like they could exist at the same time.

    A Moment I’ll Always Carry

    There’s a very specific snapshot my brain saved from that day:

    I’m standing at the edge of the overlook.
    My hair damp with mist.
    My hands tucked deep into my coat pockets.
    Seals dot the rocks like a secret only the sea understands.
    The ocean stretches endlessly beneath a soft Irish sky.

    And I’m just…there.

    Breathing. Watching. Existing inside this small pocket of time where nothing matters except the rhythm of the waves and the gentle, curious eyes of a few seals.

    I think that’s why I remember the smell so clearly. It’s like the ocean stamped itself into my senses, just to be sure I wouldn’t forget:

    You were here.
    You felt this.
    It was beautiful.

    From the Sea Back to the Midwest

    Eventually—of course—we left. That’s the thing about travel. No matter how magical a place feels, you always have to fold yourself back into regular life again.

    But sometimes, back in Iowa—unloading groceries, chasing my kiddo through the living room, or walking the dog down a familiar street—I’ll get a sudden flash of that Irish coastline.

    The seals, like punctuation marks at the edge of the world.
    The sweetness of the air.
    The way the sky and sea felt like one wide, breathing thing.

    It’s funny how certain memories burrow in quietly and make themselves at home. That day with the seals wasn’t a big, flashy milestone. Not a wedding or a graduation or anything meant for a scrapbook.

    But it’s one my heart returns to when it needs reminding that the world is still full of wonder.

    Those seals taught me something, in their own quiet way: you don’t have to live by the ocean to carry the sea with you. Sometimes it’s enough to have one perfect, misty, seal-spotted afternoon tucked safely away.

    Why I’ll Never Forget It

    Will I see seals in Ireland again someday? I hope so.

    I hope I get to stand on another wind-whipped cliff, feel the mist freckle my face, breathe in that sweet ocean air, and spot those little heads bobbing in the waves. I hope I get to whisper hello to the selkies in my imagination—and thank them again for their stories.

    But even if I never return to that exact spot, I know this:

    That day is part of my internal landscape now. Just like the streets of my hometown and the rooms of every place I’ve ever lived, that cliff by the sea lives in me. When life feels heavy or loud, I can close my eyes and go back—the seals, the wind, the salt, the myth, the stillness.

    And for a sentimental, easily-overwhelmed human like me, that feels like a gift.

    image of irish coast line and sea

    This is the kind of moment I love sharing here—quiet, meaningful, and a little bit magical. If you’d like more travel memories, reflections, and everyday wonder in your inbox, you can subscribe below.

  • Bring a Little Irish Magic Into Your Year: My New Gaeilge & English 2026 Planner

    Bring a Little Irish Magic Into Your Year: My New Gaeilge & English 2026 Planner

    🌿✨ Planning with Irish Magic: Why I Created a Bilingual Irish & English Planner for 2026

    There are certain places in the world that stay with you long after you’ve packed your bags and returned home. For me, Ireland is one of those places — full of windswept coasts, warm cups of tea and coffee, music drifting from pubs, and a spirit that’s hard to put into words. It’s a place that feels alive with stories, heritage, and culture… my heritage, and it inspired something new that I’ve been so excited to share.

    This year, I created something that brings a little piece of Ireland into everyday life: a 2026 Irish & English Monthly Planner, written in both Gaeilge and English, for anyone who loves culture, slow living, and intentional planning. 🍀📅
    And because I’ve always felt that planning and reflection go hand-in-hand, I also created a matching Irish & English Journal to complement the planner. It’s perfect for notes, gratitude lists, travel memories, or practicing a little Gaeilge each day.

    But before I get to the planner, let me tell you how it came to be.

    Three women standing together and smiling along the grassy coastline in Ireland, with waves crashing against rocky cliffs in the background under a cloudy sky.
    My family and I exploring Ireland! A favorite from the trip.

    🍃 Ireland Has a Way of Staying With You

    My connection to Ireland began with heritage — stories passed down, family roots, and that quiet pride many of us with Irish ancestry carry. But when I visited Ireland? It transformed from a family story into something deeply personal.

    I still remember the first time Ireland truly clicked for me — not just as a beautiful country, but as a feeling. There’s an ease to the way people live. A spark in the music. A deep sense of history layered into the land. Even simple things like hearing the soft melody of Gaeilge woven into conversations made me want to hold onto that magic a little longer. That connection never leaves.

    And if you’ve followed my blog for a while, you know I’m a planner girl at heart. 🧁🫖

    I love intentional routines, cozy planning sessions, and any excuse to add beauty to everyday life.

    So naturally, one day it hit me:

    Why not bring my love for planning and my Irish roots together?

    ✨ The Inspiration Behind the Planner

    When I sat down to design this planner, I wanted it to be more than a calendar. I wanted it to feel like Ireland — gentle, warm, cultural, and full of little sparks of joy.

    I imagined a planner that could be:

    • A celebration of Irish culture
    • A gentle companion for planning your year
    • A bridge between Irish heritage and modern life
    • A tool for Gaeilge learners
    • A keepsake that feels soft, meaningful, and cozy

    So, I create done where every month includes headings in both Irish & English — a lovely way to be surrounded by the language, even if you’re only beginning to learn it. I also included:

    • A year-at-a-glance
    • Monthly calendars
    • Select daily planning pages
    • A vacation itinerary
    • A budgeting section
    • Irish cultural dates + celebrations
    • And that soft, intentional vibe I love

    It’s simple. Beautiful. Practical. And wrapped in Irish charm.

    📘 A Planner for Travelers, Heritage Lovers, and Learners

    This planner is for anyone who wants their year to feel more intentional — with a touch of culture woven through each page.

    It’s perfect for:

    • The traveler dreaming of Ireland
    • The Irish-American reconnecting with family roots
    • The language learner practicing Gaeilge
    • The busy mom who loves a pretty, functional planner
    • The heritage lover who wants something meaningful
    • The student or teacher who loves multicultural resources
    • And honestly… anyone who loves cozy, beautifully designed planners (hi, same 💛)

    Pair it with the matching Irish & English Journal for notes, gratitude, reflections, or even practicing phrases in Gaeilge each day.

    🌈 A Tiny Daily Dose of Culture

    One of my favorite features?
    The cultural dates sprinkled throughout the planner — everything from Lá Fhéile Pádraig to Lá Bealtaine.

    These little notes feel like tiny reminders of connection, tradition, and heritage.
    Almost like Ireland tapping you on the shoulder as you move through your year.

    🍀 Want to Bring a Touch of Ireland into Your 2026?

    If this speaks to your heart the way it did to mine, you can explore the planner here:

    👉 https://a.co/d/4Y1estw

    It comes in two formats:

    📗 Hardcover 8×10 – a beautiful, spacious desk planner
    📘 Paperback 6×9 – lightweight and perfect for travel, bags, and everyday life

    I’ve loved watching this project come to life, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it brought me to create it.

    ☕ Final Thoughts

    Designing this planner and journal set has been such a meaningful experience — a blend of travel memories, Irish heritage, and the cozy creativity I love sharing with you here.

    And honestly? I think that’s the heart of planning itself.
    Not just lists and dates, but little rituals that keep us rooted in who we are.

    If you pick up the planner or journal, I’d love to see how you use it — your flat lays, your favorite spreads, your travel notes, your Irish-inspired moments. 💛✨

    Here’s to a beautiful, intentional, culturally rich 2026.

    Sláinte!

    ,

    © 2025 Elizabeth Settles — cozy stories, modern life, & honest reflections.

  • Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: When Paradise Goes Wrong 😅

    Excited to Travel Again… Until Maui Had Other Plans

    After months of wedding planning, we were beyond thrilled to be traveling again — and what better destination for a honeymoon than Maui, Hawaii? 🌺

    I can’t help but laugh as I write this because, while Hawaii is usually paradise for everyone, our honeymoon didn’t exactly go as planned. From resort mix-ups to transportation troubles, we somehow turned paradise into a series of unfortunate (and hilarious) events.

    A Promising Start in Paradise

    After our wedding-day chaos, we were ready for smooth sailing. Our flights were perfectly on time, luggage intact, and we were greeted in Maui with a beautiful flower lei from our travel agent. Everything seemed perfect.

    We checked into Mana Kai Maui Resort, thrilled by the ocean view and ready for the ultimate romantic getaway. The resort’s tagline — “Where heaven meets earth” — soon became an inside joke between us, because what followed was… not exactly heavenly. 😂

    1. Resort Restaurant & Store Closed

    Upon arrival, we learned that the resort’s restaurant, bar, and general store had all closed weeks earlier. Since we hadn’t rented a car, thinking we’d spend most of our time relaxing at the resort, this was not ideal.

    After our long 10-hour trip, we decided to deal with it the next morning.

    Highlight: We woke up early, walked down to the beach, and soaked in the sunrise. The warm breeze, golden sand, and sound of the waves turned into one of the best moments of our trip.

    2. The Mystery of the “Honeymoon Package”

    The next morning, I asked the front desk about our honeymoon package — champagne, chocolates, and macadamia nuts — which we had prepaid for. They claimed to have no record of it and asked for proof!

    Two days (and several emails from our travel agent) later, a grocery-store bottle of champagne and a bag of nuts arrived at our room. Not quite what we imagined!

    Then, to top it off, they said they could only hold our luggage until 4 p.m. on our departure day — even though our flight wasn’t until later. After more confusion (and some persistence from our travel agent), we were finally allowed to stay until 8 p.m.

    Highlight: That evening’s Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise was amazing! The couple who hosted it went above and beyond with live music, dancing, and Hawaiian history. The sunset views were stunning, even without the whales. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Maui! This is a low key event. Very small. So keep that mind.

    3. Stranded at the Lavender Farm 🌸

    Our next adventure took us to the Kula Botanical Garden, which was cute but still recovering from storm damage. Then we headed to Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm, a beautiful (though smaller than expected) spot filled with the scent of lavender and a cute gift shop.

    Afterward, we planned to head to Maui Wine — but soon discovered there were no taxis or rideshares available in the area. After asking the staff for help, we were told cars rarely came out that far.

    We ended up walking for 30 minutes down the hill in the hot sun (not exactly dressed for hiking!) before finding a driver. Our winery reservation time had passed, but at least we made it back to the resort in one piece.

    Highlight: Our driver — originally from Poland — kept us entertained with conspiracy theories about Eastern Europe the entire ride back. He even recommended the resort’s “amazing restaurant,” not realizing it had closed. 😂

    4. The Beach Massage Disaster 💆‍♀️

    After all that, we decided to book a couples massage by the beach to relax. We confirmed everything by email — including that it would take place outdoors.

    When the masseuse arrived, she looked shocked and said, “You expected me to fit in here?!” Confused, we explained it was supposed to be on the beach. After some back-and-forth (and getting permission from the resort), she reluctantly set up on the most crowded part of the sand.

    It went downhill from there. The massage was… aggressive. When I asked for lighter pressure, she said, “Trust me, you don’t want it any lighter.” 😬 Let’s just say it wasn’t the peaceful spa moment we’d imagined. She even stuck her hand down my bikini bottoms.

    Highlight: She did manage to fix my neck pain — so at least there was that!

    The Bright Spots 🌴

    Despite the chaos, Maui still offered some unforgettable experiences:

    Sea Turtle Cove — Right by our resort. We spotted multiple sea turtles up close — a truly magical experience.

    Maui Tropical Express Tour — A must-try! Affordable, fun, and the best smoothie I’ve ever had.

    Ocean Vodka Distillery Tour — Educational and delicious. Fun fact: their chef once cooked for Tom Cruise! The poke bowl was incredible.

    Was our Maui honeymoon perfect? Not even close. But honestly, every mishap turned into a memory (and a funny story).

    If I could do it again, I’d double-check every detail — even when working with professionals. But sometimes, things just go wrong, and all you can do is laugh, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride.

    Here’s to future adventures — hopefully with fewer surprises! 😂

    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ocean Vodka Distillery
    Sea Turtles
    Honorable Mention
    At the sea turtle cove!
    Ocean Vodka Distillery

    Send me a coffee! ❤
  • Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢

    Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢


    There’s just something about the energy of Chinatown that makes my foodie heart so happy — the hustle, the steam rising from street stalls, the smells that draw you in at every corner. On my latest trip to New York City, I found myself wandering down Eldridge Street when I stumbled upon Super Taste, a cozy little gem tucked at 26 Eldridge St, New York, NY. Let me just say… wow.

    The moment I took a bite of their pork and chive dumplings, I knew I was in trouble — the good kind of trouble. Perfectly chewy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside, and when you drizzle on a little chili oil and soy sauce? Pure magic. I swear I could have eaten an entire tray by myself (okay, maybe I did).

    What I love about Super Taste is that it’s unpretentious, affordable, and full of soul. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve found a local secret, even though it’s beloved by so many NYC foodies. The portions are generous, the flavors bold, and the atmosphere? Comfortingly chaotic in the best way.

    If you ever find yourself in Chinatown, do yourself a favor and stop by. Grab some dumplings, maybe some noodles too, and take a little walk afterward to soak in the vibrant neighborhood around you.

    Until next time, Super Taste — I’ll be dreaming of your dumplings. 🥟💛

  • A Cozy Sip on the Ring of Kerry: The Perfect Irish Coffee at The Red Fox Inn ☕🍀

    A Cozy Sip on the Ring of Kerry: The Perfect Irish Coffee at The Red Fox Inn ☕🍀

    There’s nothing quite like that first sip of authentic Irish coffee — especially when it’s enjoyed in the heart of Ireland. If you’re road-tripping through the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, do yourself a favor and make a cozy little stop at The Red Fox Inn in Co. Kerry. Trust me, this place is pure magic.

    The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the comforting hum of chatter, the crackle of a warm fire, and the heavenly scent of fresh coffee and whiskey mingling in the air. I ordered their famous Irish coffee, and oh my goodness — it was perfection in a cup. Smooth, sweet, and perfectly balanced with just the right kick of Irish whiskey. Locals would call it a “drop of the craythur,” and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. It’s the kind of drink that warms you from the inside out and makes you want to linger just a little longer.

    Whether you’re chasing scenic views, historic charm, or simply a great cup of coffee, The Red Fox Inn is one of those must-visit stops that makes your Ireland trip feel complete. So next time you find yourself winding along the Ring of Kerry, pull over, settle in, and treat yourself. You’ll thank yourself later. 💚

    Me and my Irish coffee!

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  • ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    There’s just something magical about travel, isn’t there? The thrill of exploring somewhere new, the little surprises tucked into every street corner, and that first sip of a local drink you’ll dream about for years to come. ✈️ I’ve been daydreaming about my next adventure, but until then, I’ve been reminiscing about one of my coolest (literally!) travel experiences — visiting the ICEBAR in Stockholm!

    Sweden stole my heart for so many reasons, but one of the highlights had to be how easy it was to get around. The Stockholm public transportation system is a traveler’s dream — clean, efficient, and super easy to navigate. My friends and I hopped on the metro and followed the map right to Hotel C Stockholm, where the ICEBAR is located. And let me tell you, getting there felt like part of the adventure! If you ever need a hand, the station attendants are kind and helpful, and in my experience, Swedes are some of the friendliest people — especially when you ask with a smile.

    Walking into the hotel, you’ll see signs leading you down a hallway to the bar. That’s where the magic begins. Don’t worry — they’ve got you covered (literally!) with warm coats and gloves before you step inside. Everything, and I mean everything, is made of ice — the walls, the chairs, the glasses, even the bar itself! It’s like walking straight into a frozen fairytale. I chickened out on sitting in the icy “Game of Thrones” throne (I’m from Iowa, but I still have my cold limits! 😂), but I did snap some seriously fun photos.

    Now let’s talk about the drinks. I tried a vodka and elderberry syrup cocktail, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it made my Top 3 Drinks of All Time list. It was crisp, slightly sweet, and the perfect contrast to the chilly atmosphere. I could’ve easily stayed there all night — if not for the freezing temps, of course.

    If you ever find yourself in Stockholm, do yourself a favor and stop by the ICEBAR. It’s such a unique, bucket-list-worthy experience. Whether you go for the photos, the cocktails, or just the novelty of sipping from a glass made of ice, it’s an adventure you won’t forget. I’m already counting down the days until I can go back!

    Have you ever been to the ICEBAR or something like it? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below — let’s share some cozy travel stories together. 💙

  • A Taste of Stockholm: A Summer Foodie Adventure You’ll Never Forget

    A Taste of Stockholm: A Summer Foodie Adventure You’ll Never Forget

    If you’re looking for the perfect way to kick off summer in Sweden, A Taste of Stockholm is the place to be! This lively food and beverage festival takes over Kungsträdgården and celebrates everything delicious about Swedish and international cuisine. It’s truly a foodie’s dream come true — filled with flavor, fun, and sunshine.

    Getting there couldn’t be easier. Sweden’s public transportation is wonderfully efficient, and the metro station near Kungsträdgården is worth a visit in itself. (Naturally, I had to snap a picture of my friend Brittany there — the aesthetic was too good to pass up!)

    Once you arrive, get ready to wander through rows of food stalls, each more tempting than the last. From lobster rolls and Ethiopian tacos to every kind of sweet treat imaginable, there’s something for every craving. And let’s talk about the drinks — the wine stands are absolutely worth exploring. I even discovered my new obsession: a crisp pear wine that instantly became a summer favorite.

    Beyond the incredible food, A Taste of Stockholm offers live music, cooking demonstrations, and even appearances by some of Sweden’s top chefs. The entire festival buzzes with positive energy, laughter, and the scent of something delicious always in the air.

    If you ever find yourself in Stockholm in early summer, make sure this festival is at the top of your list. Between the amazing food, vibrant entertainment, and that unbeatable Swedish summer vibe, A Taste of Stockholm is an experience you’ll want to relive again and again.

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    Lobster Roll
    Ethiopian Tacos