DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Galena, Illinois: The Best Day Trip from Rock Island Arsenal Posted on April 11, 2024August 13, 2026 Are you in search of an excellent road trip destination close to Rock Island Arsenal? Today, we’re embarking on a scenic journey to Galena, a quaint Midwest town that’s more than just a dot on the map. Nestled among rolling hills and historic landscapes, Galena offers a glimpse into a world where the past and present merge seamlessly. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD The Big Takeaway From My First Podcast Appearance (It’s Not What I Expected) Posted on April 9, 2024August 16, 2026 I recently leaped from my comfort zone by participating in my first podcast guest appearance. This was a new challenge for me, as someone who typically finds solace behind the camera rather than in front of it. Despite my initial reservations, the experience turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable. It has ignited an interest in exploring more opportunities like this, perhaps even venturing into creating more content for my own YouTube channel. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Where to See the Total Solar Eclipse in America Posted on April 8, 2024September 24, 2026 On April 8, 2024, a rare astronomy event unfolds in North America: a total solar eclipse visible in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. The path of totality, where the moon covers the sun, spans from Mazatlan to Canada’s Atlantic Coast. Depending on the weather, catch a partial eclipse locally, or journey to the path for the full experience. Discover prime viewing locations as the country plunges into darkness. Read more
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD The Advantages of Slow Travel in Italy: A Better Way to a Dolce Vita Posted on April 8, 2024May 21, 2026 In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life’s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time stands still among the olive groves and vineyards. We’ll introduce you to agriturismos, where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK From Cheongdo With Love: Discovering Soumou Cafe Posted on April 7, 2024December 20, 2025 Finding cool new cafes is always fun. Let’s talk about Soumou Cafe, a great spot at Geumjandi Farm in Qingdao Cheongdo. This town is full of new cafes. When I visited, Soumou Cafe had just opened. Once you walk in, you’ll see it’s not like other places. It has its own style. Plus, it has a pretty cool secret too Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Cafe Tims: The Heart of Suseong’s Vibrant Alpha City Posted on April 6, 2024December 20, 2025 Alpha City in Daegu, South Korea, is experiencing an exciting cafe boom. New cafes and restaurants are opening left and right, energizing the whole area. Swept up in the buzz, Steven and I just had to check out a cozy dessert cafe in this lively Suseong district. It was the perfect destination for this week’s cafe-hopping adventure. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD Running the Paris Marathon with My Husband: Endurance, Love, and Teamwork Posted on April 5, 2024August 16, 2026 Military separations aren’t just about miles, but lost time and shared memories. Running the Paris Marathon was a chance to catch up on both. These times apart are challenging. They mean missing holidays, precious moments, and chances to grow together. To reconnect, we find shared goals. Running the Paris Marathon together was our way to catch up and grow closer. But it actually accomplished much, much more. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK TYCOGA Winery: The Best Day Trip in Iowa Posted on April 4, 2024December 20, 2025 At Tycoga Winery & Distillery, it’s more than just about the drinks; their pizza is pretty good, too. Thirty minutes from our door to theirs, we stepped into a place buzzing with life. Despite the crowd, the manager spotted us right away, treating us like VIPs and ushering us to the bar. That warm welcome set the stage for an experience we won’t forget, savoring standout pizza and wine in the heart of Iowa. Read more