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Essays, Guides, Info
Travel Guide to London: Kensington and Chelsea
As I poked between the iron gate, I heard a voice warn, “No photos.” I looked up from the estate to see a gentleman emerge from the buildings to kindly deliver his message. I was just there for the architecture. Beautiful details called to me, begging for my admiration. And although I was no threat,…
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Gluten-free Banana Oat Muffins
These gluten-free banana oat muffins are made with whole oats and can be made vegan. Try both the smooth blended version and the heartier whole oat version.
Coconut Thai Curry Tofu and Squash
This spicy Thai-inspired dish combines coconut milk and Thai red curry paste to create a creamy sauce for tofu and butternut squash, perfect to serve over rice.
Coffee in Italy: How Tradition Upholds Artistry and High Standards
The dapper barista steamed the milk with precision, poured the creamy froth over the shot of robust espresso in a rhythmic swaying motion, then slid the cappuccino onto the bar with a slight nod. As I sipped the luscious intensity, I tasted Italy. The day officially began. The taste lingered with both me and Aaron…
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How Pizza in Rome Will Entice You to Savor Perfection
He wore a collared SS Lazio shirt, tucked beneath his round belly with a sweatband and three pairs of glasses on his head. This wacky waiter served more than just pizza—he indoctrinated foreigners on proper Italian dining decorum. Our desire to experience the Romans’ Rome began our first night, two blocks from the Tiber River…
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4 Pasta Dishes You Have to Try in Rome
One October day in Ancient Rome, a shepherd wandered with his flock into the hills of the Apennine Mountains carrying three ingredients: pasta, cheese, and pepper. He mixed them over a fire to create a basic dish of velvety sustenance. Two thousand years later, the proud waiter at Felice a Testaccio in the 20th rione…
Travel Guide: Vatican City
The world’s smallest country is also home to the Pope. However, not only Catholics make their pilgrimage to the Vatican, but people from around the world come in droves. Vatican City is a city-state politically separate from, but geographically surrounded by the city of Rome. The Vatican’s 3 main attractions Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and…
Travel Tale: From Overload to Awe in Vatican City
Corralled beneath ornate ceilings in halls of maps and tapestries, the crowded gallery corridors felt like an elegant livestock chute extending the length of a dozen football fields. From there, we were shoved into a smaller-than-expected chapel packed with tourists. This should have been a moment that forced my mouth agape as I wrapped my…
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Travel Guide: How Florence Inspires a Higher Standard and ‘Slow Tourism’
Stunning architecture and sculpted masterpieces, natural regional food and wine—Florence is sure to delight your perspective alongside your tastebuds. No wonder it’s such a popular destination. You really can’t help but fall in love with Florence. Italian Pride and Passion Italians take pride in their work. Their enthusiasm is infectious. Italy celebrates artisans and designers,…
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Florence, Italy: Currently Closed. Our Recent Visit Affirmed the Need for Sustainable Tourism.
Today the jewelry and souvenir shops lining the Ponte Vecchio—in medieval stalls once occupied by tanners, farmers, and butchers—are closed until further notice. For several weeks now, response to the Coronavirus global pandemic has shut down many businesses throughout the world deemed non-essential. Tourist destinations have been the most vulnerable to the virus, and Italy…
A Quick Taste of Geneva, Switzerland
First impressions influence perceptions, but even a short stay can give a sense of a place. During our stopover, we gained a brief feel for the city—and a delicious meal—without completely breaking the (Swiss) bank. What can you do in a single evening in Geneva? I wondered how much we would learn about this place…
Virtual Travel During Challenges
Virtual trips allow us to experience places that we may not be able to visit just yet, but may like to go someday; or perhaps they ignite memories of previous travels. My intention is to provide hope and inspiration through my stories and photos while transporting you during this challenging time. My thoughts and prayers…
Barcelona: Spain or Catalonia?—When we unexpectedly met its complexity and conflict
Many may not even realize—I, one of limited knowledge, can only begin to understand—the layers of Barcelona’s complicated history within the region of Catalonia. Seeing their pride and their frustration in action only gave me a glimpse. What I do know—people want to be heard. Acknowledged. Respected. Our issues are universal. A common desire among…
Valencia: The Luster of Spain’s Third-Largest City Illuminated (Part 3 of 3): Quality + Balance
As my family’s Valencian soccer trip came to an end, we reflected that true prosperity flourishes in their balanced way of life. The people displayed pride in artistry and quality. Integrity is in the details. Small businesses and local vendors matter more than chain stores. Celebration and relaxation are shared by all. Compact Quality and…
Valencia: The Luster of Spain’s Third-Largest City Illuminated (Part 2 of 3): Artistry + Progress
As Valencia progresses into the 21st century, this city built over two millennia works to maintain her heritage. Quality development balances artful modern construction with soul-protecting historic preservation. The Wisdom in Artistry & Soulful Progress We were first introduced to Valencia through La Turia Gardens. This river of green space flows around the old city,…
Valencia: The Luster of Spain’s Third-Largest City Illuminated (Part 1 of 3): Her Allure
Valencia doesn’t seem to realize how beguiling she is, which only adds to her charm. As the capital of a once-prominent region, this unpretentious city proudly showed us a restoring sense of hope through her unique qualities. Valencia Reveals Her Allure Previously left behind by Franco, the 20th century Spanish dictator, Valencia gradually emerges from…
Marinated Portobello Mushroom Burgers
The marinade makes these portobello mushrooms especially delicious.
My Personal Soul-Searching Journey to Lake Tahoe
Years ago my life took a detour, settling for a while in one of the world’s most majestic settings. From here I was able to see the forest through the trees—literally and figuratively. I discovered, not only an amazing landscape, but myself, and began a new chapter… in California. Growing up in Portland, Lake Tahoe…
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