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Wisconsin 2 Florida Moving Trip – Leg 5 (Savannah, Georgia)

The Solo Traveler in Savannah

The long awaited Savannah Sister Story…  My sister and I went on vacation to Savannah.  This is our first vacation together in over 30 years, so we wanted to make it big.  What would prompt such a road trip between two sisters?  Well, turns out, as I kept writing about the wonders of travel and traveling solo, my sister wanted to try her hand it.  Her first thought was to go somewhere I hadn’t gone yet, that is road trip accessible: she absolutely does not fly (well, there is always a first for that…lol).  But, then she soon realized we probably should just go somewhere where she wants to go.  I told her, wherever she wants to go is where I want to go.  We soon decided on Savannah, as it was about half way between us during that time in September; her in southeast Kentucky and me in southwest Florida making Savannah a perfect meet up spot. 

My sister, Mandy, was so excited to dabble in solo traveling, at least just the road trip part.  She knew once we met in Savannah, the solo would turn to a Jones Duo and we would be connected at the hip for the rest of the trip.  We had LOTS to catch up on.  Sure, we have been talking and texting over the years.  I made a few visits back home, but nothing like being away from the rest of the world for a whole week catching up like only sisters can.  We were going:  date set, plans made, hearts bursting with anticipation of a much needed vacation, but more importantly, a much needed reunion.

Well, as we all know, plans change.  Plans change all the time, and yes, our plans changed.  Turns out, I would not make it to Florida before this trip.  In fact, my Florida destination was going to be pushed off for another week or so due to work.  I was going to have to make another work trip before getting to Florida, so decided, to take my time going south and leave for my work trip from a different location.  Location was unknown as this time.  As Mandy thought more about the trip, more about my whereabouts before the trip, more about really not wanting to drive 7 hours by herself, she crafted a genius plan.  She knew I was going to be in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky before I headed down I-75 south to Florida.  “Wonder”, she thought, “if Pooh (yes that is my nickname – we all have nicknames in Kentucky), if Pooh would just drive over here and spend a while then we could just drive down together.”  She texted me saying to call her, she has a plan.  I called before she can even put the period at the end of the sentence…LOL. 

“What is this brilliant plan?” I ask.  Mandy proceeds to tell me how she was thinking about me already being in Kentucky, and how I could just drive east towards her house, stay with her for a spell, drive to Savannah TOGETHER for our vacation, stay the week, drive back to Kentucky, then I could proceed down south to Florida after that.  BRILLIANT!!!!! 

So, instead of driving to Florida right after Mammoth Cave, then flying up to Savannah, I diverted over to Mandy’s house, and spent the next week, living like a normal, non-traveling person.  It was great as I had a home for a week, instead of a hotel room.  What’s better?  I got to see Mandy every day for 7 days.  It was like we were kids again, sharing the same space, in harmony, working during the day, hanging out at night.  What a wonderful break in between all the driving to Florida.  I was finally home, for a while anyway.  I was able to see all three sisters and my best friend since first grade (but you already know all of that, because I know you read my last post about my home town J). 

We both got more and more excited each day closer to our departure day.  We were both so happy that Mandy had this brilliant plan as some of the best vacations start with the road trip.  Finally, I would have a passenger to talk with, a confident, a friend, a sister.  I was truly excited to talk to someone outside of work on anything but work, but especially her as we had so, so much to catch up on.  Saturday couldn’t come soon enough for us to get on the road and head south.  The seven hour drive turned into about a 12-hour journey as we didn’t drive straight through.  We both agreed that if either wanted to spontaneously stop along the way, just say the word (give me a 2-second warning, so I could signal and get over safely), and we would stop.  We did just that.  We made a stop at Culvers for lunch (I LOVE Culvers – a first for Mandy).  We stopped at Sierra Nevada Brewery (it was curbside only, but we still got to see the massive distillery from the outside).  We stopped at an Outlet Mall (Mandy really wanted to shop at Vera Bradley).  Final stop, Savannah:  we rolled in around 9:30p.  That was Day 1.

Day 2 was meant to be a bit lazy, so we slept in, planned out the rest of the week, caught up on 30 years worth of catching up, walked casually down and around town, turned in early and looked forward to the days ahead.

The rest of the trip was packed with riverboat cruise, cookie company stops, haunted ghost stories, trolley rides, walking (lots of walking), parks with fountains, history, lighthouses, beach, sea shells, swimming, and all kinds of entertainment. 

Cool Fact:  Did you know that the filming of Forrest Gump, the park where he sat on the bench and the feather dropped down, was right here in Savannah at Chippewa Square?  The bench is actually in the Savannah Visitor Center now.

Cool Fact:  Did you know that the movie Gator, where Burt Reynolds crashed through that pavilion, was filmed right here in Savannah in the Whitfield Square?  The pavilion was re-built about 8 times during the filming of the movie, and a 9th one built to leave in place for all to adore.

Cool Fact:  For anyone that has read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, must surely know that was all Savannah based, right?

Cool Fact:  Did you know Johnny Mercer was born right here in Savannah?  Not sure who John Mercer is?  Do you know the song Moon River?  Yep, that is him; he wrote the lyrics!!

Cool Fact: Did you know the London café where Julia Roberts looked into the window to see her husband in an affair in Something to Talk About, that was filmed right in Savannah at Six Pence?

Cool Fact:  Did you know that Savannah is the longest continuously running crane port in the US?  Did you know it is also the most western port on the east coast, being the same distance to Chicago as New York-New Jersey and Norfolk?

All these cool facts that Mandy and I didn’t even know became so amazing for us to discover together.  We re-enacted several of these scenes as we hopped on and off the Old Town Trolley.  Shout out to Ruben, one of our trolley drivers on the tour, as he was really into “telling the story” of Savannah rather than spitting facts out to us.  Highly recommend you track down Ruben and hop on his trolley (ride the entire loop starting with the Visitor Center before hopping off – you won’t regret it).

Mandy and I had so much fun exploring during the day, then if something was too crowded (couldn’t get a good picture without people or wasn’t so easy to hop off the trolley nearby), we would make note, then I would get up early morning for a run and seek out those spots to take our photos.  That was really a great motivation for me to go running and much like a scavenger hunt, as I ran from memory of where we were the day before, I wouldn’t map it out.  I learned much of the area that way and truly enjoyed the early morning hours before the crowd woke up.

Our daily routine became, get up, eat breakfast at hotel, explore until all hours of the night, watch a Halloween movie (31 Days of Halloween on FreeForm), sleep, repeat.  One adventure took us on a riverboat cruise, the Georgia Queen.  That cruise is where we learned about the port history and its growth, saw the Waving Girl (story of girl who waved at all the ships coming in and going out of port), passed by the Olympic Torch statue (in honor of the 1996 Olympics where Savannah hosted the yachting events), and a beautiful look at Savannah from the water side.  Mandy and I enjoyed sitting back and relaxing on the cruise as we had walked many, many miles the day before.  Cheers to sisters!!

Another adventure led us to Tybee Island where Mandy saw her first lighthouse, then proceeded to climb all 178 steps up to the top.  I enjoyed watching Mandy’s face light up as she looked up to the light before climbing the stairs, then be in awe as she looked back down at the beach from the top.  So fun to experience this together!!

Then, we stopped many, many times into the Byrd Cookie Company.  They give free samples; as many as you want and they have over 15+ to try.  The cookies are really good.  My favorite was the triple chocolate cookie.  We also had to stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream as well since it is over 100 years old and the ice cream is just as good now as it was oh so many years ago.  I had the Peanut Butter Chippy.  Amaaaaazing!!

One of our last stops was at the American Prohibition Museum.  We were not sure what to expect, but after going inside and experiencing the history, seeing the real-life wax figures, paying to see the “exotic animal” within, and then enjoying the speak easy at the end, assured us we made a great choice of visiting this museum.  The history behind the prohibition and the strong voices that came out of it was so very interesting.

With all the adventures and all the catching up, for me, the best part of this whole trip was not only spending time with my sister, but watching travel through her eyes.  When she would see things for the first time, or drink a Starbuck’s double chocolate chip frappuccino double-blended for the first time, or walk up her very first lighthouse, or curl her toes in the sand, or collect sea shells, to see the joy on her face, knowing that feeling of what it is like to experience life through traveling adventures, was priceless. 

Let’s not wait another 30 years to have a sister vacation. I am ready, when you are ready.

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Wisconsin 2 Florida Moving Trip – Leg 4 (Letcher County, Kentucky)

The Solo Traveler's Hometown

Growing Up Drive By

A trip around the world, or at least The Solo Traveler’s World, when I was just a wee one.  Even young, Alli L was on the move; moving from one place to another to another.  To give you perspective on my ability to stay put in one place, digest the fact that I have moved (physically packed up everything and moved to another location or another house or another apartment) a total of 43 times.  Yes, that is correct, I have moved 43 times in my lifetime.  This move from Wisconsin to Florida marks the 43rd pack up. 

So now, let’s look at when it all started.  Part of my journey from the north to the south took me not only back to my home state, but back to my hometown.  Seeing family can be the best moments of any trip.  I hadn’t seen my family or friends back home in over 5 years.  It was nice to drop in for a week and just catch up.  Met up with all three of my sisters throughout the week, and on one of those days, took a trip around the world from the perspective of where I grew up.  We started at the hospital where I was born in Whitesburg, Kentucky, drove over to Millstone (behind the coal mine camp store) where my first dwelling place resided.  After that, a trip to Wheelwright (where the house sits empty and foreclosed) to the right hand fork of Millstone (where no home sits at all).  Over to Payne Gap we go where I spent the next 6 years, but life happens and now just one sister and I continue the journey.  We move to Sergeant and stay at one place for oh, a year, then move to the trailer right next door for another 6 years.  Off to college I went for the next 4 years, but in between each semester and each summer, I moved back and forth and off to volunteer in Shenandoah National Park, then Assateague Island National Seashore, and so on and so on and Scooby Dooby Dooooby.  Oh cha cha!!!*

So, being back home for a while and reliving my first 17 years of life, before heading off to college; that is what this post is about.

The pictures you are about to see are those of a girl, seeking adventure, while in the midst of the adventure already that she now looks back on fondly.  Enjoy this trip through time as you cross over to the Solo Traveler Zone!!!

*Thanks Buddy Miles and Jimi Hendrix

**Thanks Rod Sterling

Highland Winery

The county that I grew up in, Letcher County, was a dry county. Everyone had to either go over to Wise, Virginia or a few counties over to Perry County, where a liquor license was legal. I can recall many a trip to the “top of the mountain” in Wise or what seemed like the longest journey ever to Perry County. Not for me of course, but a family member, so my sister and I got packed up in the car to make the trip on a weekly basis. Ah, memories!!!

But now, Letcher County, or at least certain parts of the county, can sell liquor. For one stop, it is more specifically wine made right in Seco at the Highland Winery. SECO is actually an acronym for the South East Coal Company that existed many years ago. Now, what was once the company store for the miners is a sit down wine tasting experience. So for my growing up road trip, needed to stop in and taste the local flavor of grapes and of course, support the local economy (i.e. buy a bottle or two). I purchased Miner’s Blood, but they also had a Miner’s Sweat and a Miner’s Tears. Blood, Sweat, and Tears really describe well the life of a miner; from hard work to injury to death.

I was born a coal miner’s daughter, and I can attest to the blood, sweat, and tears that were a daily part of my dad’s life. Thank you to the Highland Winery for honoring all those that were and are a miner.

If you are ever, ever off course from the interstate and want a unique bottle of wine, make your way on over.

Kentucky Mist Moonshine

Well, what’s is a trip to Kentucky without a little taste of moonshine?  I cannot confirm or deny if illegal moonshine is still made in the mountains, but I can confirm that Kentucky Mist Moonshine is the best tasting legal version of the stuff.  You want grape flavored moonshine?  They have it.  You want lemonade flavor?  They have that too.  Again, I know it seems that I drink a lot, but I really don’t.  LOL.  I truly, truly love the science behind the making of alcohols and since Kentucky Mist has a tour, I needed to get behind the scenes and find out “how it’s made”!!  Thanks to Anthony for a wonderfully personalized tour for my sister and I.  He took us through beginnings to ends with a taste test in between (that cherry was definitely macerated – I learned a new word – hehe).  I appreciate the time Anthony took in sharing his passion with us, answering all my science questions, and treating us like family.  Thanks Anthony and thank you to John for being the best bartender ever!!  You two made our experience so unique and I was happy to support your business.  I will be sharing with all my friends!!

Friends – you can buy Kentucky Mist Moonshine online – just sayin’!!  Depending on where you live, depends on what can be shipped!!  https://www.kentuckymist.com/

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Wisconsin 2 Florida Moving Trip – Leg 3 (Mammoth Cave)

The Solo Traveler visits Mammoth Cave

The third leg of my road trip journey to Florida was a stopover at Mammoth Cave National Park.  I have always wanted to go to Mammoth Cave, but oddly enough, being from Kentucky, I never did go.  I guess I thought it would always be in my backyard so I could see it anytime.  Guess my backyard just kept growing as I traveled everywhere but the cave.

This road trip, I was determined to see it, especially since it was on the way.  I had two routes really to choose on my way from Wisconsin to Florida, and when I realized one path would lead me right to Mammoth Cave, I was sold.  I was finally going to see the largest surveyed cave in the world.  In fact, over 400 miles of cave was waiting, but twelve of that was open to the public.  During the pandemic, only 2 miles were open, but man, those two miles were amazing.  Well worth the ticket.

I started at the Historic Entrance, walked down about 200 steps into the mouth of the cave, and soon into the Rotunda.  The Rotunda was a massive open area where the cave ceiling gave way and collapsed so many feet below.  What I learned was amazing from the cave having five different levels to the elevation change of about 400 feet to the natives who used this cave many thousands of years before for shelter and mining to patients residing within as part of a tuberculosis colony in hopes of healing to the rehearsals performed by Edwin Booth to many, many more fascinating facts.  Yep, you will need to visit this cave to get all the history as it is way too much to ever type up here. 

Once at the cave area, I realized that I could stay inside the park at a cottage, go trail running any time of the day or night (as the park is open 24/7 – the cave is not, but the rest of the park is) and eat at the Spelunker for breakfast and lunch.  Perfect!!!  What was going to be a 2-day stopover turned into a 4-day adventure so I could take it all in (because, well, it’s mammoth you know).  I wanted to make sure I ran the trails and took in all I could from the cave and enjoy a moment to just be!

The entire trip was less about extreme adventure and more about refreshing and recharging in nature.  Thank you Mammoth Cave for a wonderfully relaxing experience.

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Wisconsin 2 Florida Moving Trip – Leg 2 (Louisville, KY)

The Solo Traveler in Louisville

Well, if you know where the best baseball bats and bourbon are made, then you know where I ended up!! Had no plans to stop in Louisville, but as I got closer to the city, decided to spend a few hours and then be on my way. Well a few hours are ended up to be a few days. Once I started looking up all the things to see and do here, I knew I was going to need more time.

I woke up early this morning to go for a run to and over the Big Four Bridge (a now footbridge from Kentucky over the Ohio River to the Indiana side. Pretty cool to run from one state to another. Met up with a fellow runner, who unintentionally challenged me to a faster pace. We enjoyed a mile together speeding up til the other end of the bridge. Thank you Mr. Runner for pushing me to a 9:12 minute mile. My heart was sure pumping on that one!!

Decided since I was already out on foot, that I might as well take my own walking tour. No need to pay for a tour, when I can walk myself around and read all the placards. Downtown Louisville is very walker friendly. I took lots of pictures of bridges and the KFC Yum Stadium where the Cardinals play, but I won’t post ALL of them here. Seems the bridges and stadium just fascinated me. Also passed by the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Field, an Abraham Lincoln statue, a few steamboats, and a statue of Clark and York (the explorer and his slave),

After my walking tour, headed back to my room to freshen up for my distillery tour. I actually booked it yesterday, when I first got into town to ensure I had a spot on the tour. This tour was so cool (best distillery tour I have ever had) and that’s why it will get it’s own post!!!

After the tour, kept on walking around the area and taking in all that I could. Stopped by the Visitor Center to get my Urban Bourbon Trail passport!!! That will get a post all it’s own as well. The whole point though, is to stop in to all these bars and/or restaurants, order a drink or food, get a stamp, then after at least six stamps, turn it back in to the Visitor Center for a cool, limited edition Urban Bourbon Trail shirt. I got three stamps. Need three more! That is why I have to stay a second day.

Next stop was the Louisville Slugger Factory and Museum. I wasn’t really sure what to expect here, but when you have a 120 foot bat outside, you know it must be good. I was not disappointed. In fact, I really enjoyed learning not only how the bat is made, but the history behind it all.

So much to do in Louisville, so if you visit, and I suggest you do, make sure you give yourself two to three days (especially if you love bourbon).

Louisville Slugger

Do you know who Pete Browning is?  If you go to the Louisville Slugger Museum, you will soon find out.  Okay, I will tell you here too:  Pete Browning IS the Louisville Slugger.  So, if you like baseball or the science of “how it’s made”, the Louisville Slugger Museum would be well worth the visit.  I wouldn’t classify myself as a baseball fanatic, but I have watched baseball on occasion, even have gone to several major and minor leagues games across the country.  What fascinated me the most about the museum was truly the science behind how the baseball bats are made.  The fine detail that goes into each customized bat for Babe Ruth, Joe Jackson, Evan Longoria, Ryan Zimmerman and so many more was amazing to see.  The coolest part of the museum was the behind the scenes tour of the Life Cycle of Bats.  First the wood is selected very carefully (you can watch a video on how this happens and where), then you go to the bin of wood posts that have been identified for a specific player and ready to be shaped into the bat.  After shaping, there is shaving, dipping, burning the logo, sealing, and shipping.  I could tell that love and care was put into every single bat.  Then, at the end of the tour, you receive your own miniature slugger and get a chance to swing the bat of the greats.  I chose Babe Ruth!!!!  Who wouldn’t? 

Copper and Kings

Like I said, I booked it on Saturday night for a Sunday tour, just to make sure I had a spot reserved (as I have had many a lost opportunity by waiting til the last minute). So great, toured booked at noon, gives me a chance to run the Big Four Bridge in the morning, walk about a bit, then head over to…drum roll please…Copper and Kings!!!!!! I just randomly picked this distillery online as it had a tour available on the day I was here and a time I could go. BUT who knew this would be fate that led me to this day and this time. LOL

I walked over since I was only 1.3 miles away and wanted to keep my legs stretched (plus I am in several step challenges this month, so need all the steps I can get).  I got there early (about 10 minutes early).  Didn’t see any other cars for the tour, knew it didn’t open until 12pm anyway, so just walked around a bit more (the wall art from the last post).  Walked back up to the big orange container as instructed by email, still didn’t see anyone.  Now, it is a few minutes before tour.  Headed to the waiting area for tours and I saw no other guests.  Oh my, is the tour really happening or did I just pay and they are closed and have been closed!! 

Right on time, at the top of the hour, boom, pops in Dion!!!!!  He told me I was the only one on the tour, and maybe thought I was sad that no one else would be joining us.  In fact, I told him, this will be like a private tour then.  The next hour plus is hard to describe except to say, Dion and I were like two old friends catching up after many years apart.  We laughed, we joked, we talked football, we talked about growing up in Kentucky, about South Africa, about life, scars, love, friendships!!! Oh, and of course, Bourbon and Brandy.  Definitely talked about Bourbon and Brandy.  I learned quite a bit from the tour (the bridge is yellow to represent the color of corn – corn being 51% of the bourbon process), the containers came from South Africa, the flood of the 1920s being inspiration for a label (Floodwall American Craft Apple Brandy).  But I don’t want to give you all the details of the tour, you will need to just take the tour yourself to find out all the cool facts about Bourbon and Brandy at Copper and Kings.

I want to share more about the experience I had: a total sit back and catch up with a friend experience.  Since it was just us two, which if you read my Pictured Rock story, you will know just how much I like being the only client!!!  Asking as many questions as I wanted without annoying the others is awesome, cause they were no others.  But I do implore all to take the tour.  They are open for business and wanting of all to stop on in.

Here we go, walking through the distillery, just chatting it up about Bourbon and Brandy facts, learning more than I would have ever learned in a group, and enjoying music (it’s for the aging process of the spirits).  Once we got to the tasting room, we had become best friends, so here I am sitting with a good friend telling me all he knows about the spirits (every bottle was very tasty but I especially liked the Destillaré Intense Chocolat and the Mistelle Luxury Dessert Wine).

As we wrap up the tour and Dion leads me upstairs for a city view dining experience, I was sad to have our time end, but so happy that I had the best tour guide ever!!! 

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Wisconsin 2 Florida Moving Trip – Leg 1 (Greenfield, IN)

The Solo Traveler in Greenfield

From Wisconsin to Florida I go.  Well, the first leg got me as far as Indiana on this I don’t know how many leg trip.  Every day, the plans or non-plans keep changing.  First, was headed from Madison straight down to Orlando with about a week’s worth of driving.  Then, after talking with my manager at work, decided it would be good to stop in to a work site since it was on the way.  Sure, so that added in two weeks.  Okay, after two weeks in Indiana will go straight to Florida.  Nope, then my sister calls and asked if I wanted to meet up and do a week-long vacation with her.  ABSOLUTELY!!!  We have not vacationed together in, well, over 30 years.  Let’s go.  She asked where I wanted to go, and I said wherever she wanted to go, then that is where I wanted to go.  We figured it would be easier for her to name a place, instead of finding a place I haven’t been (in the US).  This trip would be a road trip.  Maybe, one day I will talk her into flying, like I talked her into riding a roller coaster (that I promised only had one dip – it had 14+).  She still reminds me of my little deceptive self back in the day.  Love you, sis!!!

So, now I will go from Greenfield down to Florida taking about a week, settle in, and then fly to our sister trip destination.  Nope!!  My sister then has another brilliant idea!!  If you are going to stop in western Kentucky to see the sites, why not just go east after, and come sit a spell and we can road trip together to our destination (and yes, I am being vague about our destination, so I can surprise you later on where we are going).

Oh my gosh, yes!!!  I haven’t been back home in over 5 years.  It will be great to see her, my other sisters, and some of my best friends growing up.  Can’t wait to see everyone.  Now, this will be a working trip for the first week, so I will have to pack a lot of catching up in the afternoons, but you know I can and will.  Got lots of things to do and people to see.

So, now, Wisconsin to Indiana to Kentucky, to Destination A, back to Kentucky, and then Florida??  Nope.  While working in Greenfield, I hired an employee to oversee a New Jersey site, so yes, you guessed it, from Kentucky, I will go to New Jersey for a week and get the new person all settled in.  Will definitely explore the area after work each day.  Okay, now to Florida?  Yes, but by way of Kentucky again, to pick up my Little Red Riding Hood (aka. my red Rav4), and pick back up the road trip where I left off.

Originally, I was to be in Florida around September 18th but now, I will be there around October 15th.  I do enjoy the travel, whether for work or for play, which is why I work hard, so I CAN play hard.

Today, I am leaving Greenfield, but not before I write a little about my adventure while here.  Yes, I did work for those two weeks, but in the evenings and on the weekend, I explored as much as I could.  You have already seen one of my post on the weekend, but want to add a bit more for the afternoon jaunts. 

Shout out to Greenfield Chocolates (so many varieties of truffles and other chocolate goodies), Griggsby’s Station (farm to table gastropub), and the rest of the downtown Greenfield area.  If you like great food and great architecture be sure to spend some time walking around.  Quite a few of the buildings were built in the 1800s and still has the date stamp on them today.  Quite a few churches on the corners; all different but all beautiful.

Outside of Greenfield, you will find some fun running trails, bike paths, and green spaces that are well maintained and family friendly.  The ones I ventured to were perfect for a small run and a good dose of nature, like Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, Cheeney Creek Natural Area, and Flat Fork Creek.  These were all so beautiful, that they will get their own Facebook post.

Are picking your own apples more your speed?  You can do that too right outside of Greenfield.  Loved driving right into the orchard, bought a ½ peck bag and proceeded to pick apples and take pictures.  I had never been to an apple orchard before, so took my time, and enjoyed the Hawaii, Jonathan, Red Delicious, and Cortland fruit.  Afterwards, had to get a piece of apple pie with ice cream, of course.  That was the icing on the cake, or rather ice cream on the pie!!! 

Sometimes traveling by yourself allows for many detours, unplanned adventures, and time to take in all that is in and near Greenfield.  Goodbye Indiana!! Let’s see where I end up next.  I don’t even know.

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm (July 31, 2020)

New Life Lavender Farm

Sometimes being a Solo Traveler doesn’t necessarily mean to travel across the globe, but may simply mean exploring your own backyard.  Who knew I would find lavender in my backyard.  Well, actually I don’t have a literal backyard as I live in a condo, but I do have a very large figurative backyard around the Madison, Wisconsin area.  In fact, I am finding my backyard really is extending to include the whole state.  Since I have not been able to do much long distance travel to far away exotic places, I decided to enjoy what I have right here.  So a few weekends ago, my backyard travels took me to a wonderful New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm.  Thanks to Aron and Laura for opening up their Lavender Farm over four years ago.  After talking to both of them, I realized their dream was beyond growing lavender and making  lavender products, but truly wanted to be a respite for the local community.  A place to sit and enjoy a sunset or some lavender ice cream while overlooking the wild flower fields. 

I took an afternoon to drive up to Baraboo, Wisconsin (about an hour drive for me) and enjoyed their wagon tour.  The tour started with a short video on the farm, the processes, and the family and then Aron led us outside to hear a few fish jokes by Gracia near the pond.  A short walk from the pond was the first set of lavender fields where we learned about the types of lavender (the culinary species versus the fragrant product species).  I didn’t even realize there was a difference.  The fragrant species (English Lavender) definitely had a more potent “menthol” smell versus the culinary species (French Lavender) had a more grounded “spice” smell.  On to the wagon where we went moseying around the property, learning the history of the farm, the design of the farm, and the closed environment maintained on the farm.  When I say closed environment, it is really a sustainable design, meaning the family keeps bees which pollinates the lavender and feeds off the nectar supplied by the wild flowers and whose thirst is quenched by a man-made drinking hole.  The family is quite well versed in all things lavender.  At the end of the tour, be sure to partake in the complimentary sample of lavender cherry pie.

After the tour, I highly recommend grabbing some handmade lavender ice cream, sitting out on the porch swing by the fields and take a moment to just be.  Take a long moment as I did.  I have been working hard the past few months so really wanted to treat myself to something special; something unique.  The New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm was just that:  a special slice of uniqueness, found right in my own backyard.

I couldn’t quite leave just yet though.  I would be remiss if I didn’t buy a few gifts to take with me.  I love the reusable dryer sheets and car sachet that I discovered.  As I am checking out, I notice more food on the menu that I had not seen when I ordered my ice cream.  So when the woman saw me looking, she asked, “Did you want something else?”  How strange that I was thinking it but wasn’t really going to get anything until she asked.  Good marketing or my subconscious taking over?  Either way, it was a win-win because I had THE BEST strawberry lavender lemonade ever.

Thank you to all on the farm for your hospitality,  your caring, and your engaging conversations. 

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Cave of the Mounds, Mt. Horeb (July 18, 2020)

Cave of the Mounds

Along the same theme of exploring in your own backyard, here is another little trip that I had taken by myself.  The day didn’t start out by myself, as I enjoyed a 15 mile run with some friends in Mt. Horeb on the Military Ridge State Trail.  One gets hungry after a 15 mile run, so we ate together at the Skål Public House which was just around the corner from our start/finish line.  After a tasty Avocado Toasted Cheezer sandwich, I departed from my friends and decided to explore the Mt. Horeb area a little more.  Might as well since I was already there. 

Mt. Horeb is a cute little Norwegian themed town known for its many varieties of trolls decorating the landscape.  But, Mt. Horeb is not actually a Norwegian name.  The town was named by an Englishman, George Wright, in 1861, who sought guidance from the bible. 

One of my “been wanting to go in stops” was back around the corner to the Grumpy Troll Brew Pub.  All I wanted was a pint glass with the Grumpy Troll logo.  If you are looking for a nice cold beer, Grumpy Troll is the place.  Pint glass in hand and off to mu car  I go for my next stop, Cave of the Mounds, which was only a 10- minute drive from the main streets of Mt. Horeb.

Every time I went to the Military Ridge State Trail to run, I always passed the signs for the Cave of the Mounds, but never stopped.  I thought, today is the day.  I had brought a change of clothes, so stop on in at the caves. 

Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark that is privately owned and operated after its discovery in 1939.  Blasting for a limestone quarry had revealed a deeper opening into the earth.  Blasting stopped and tours started, in a matter of about a year.  The cave has been an educational playground ever since.  You may think, don’t all caves look the same?  In concept yes, but when you walk around all the formations, each cave system is so very unique.  This cave had some “bacon” and a six foot fossil of a giant cephalopod (relative to the squid).  Pretty amazing to see!

If you are looking for something to do when it is hot outside, I highly recommend the Cave of the Mounds, which stays a constant 50F.  While the cave tour is the most popular attraction and well worth a few hours spent, there are a few more activities outside for the whole family like mineral sleuthing and fossil digs.  As the cave staff says, “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.”  That is exactly what I did.

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Mall of America Weekend Road Trip (August 7-9, 2020)

The Solo Traveler goes toMall of America

Sometimes the fun in a destination is the journey to get there.  I had a plan laid out to reach my final destination.  I wanted to go to Mall of America before I moved from Wisconsin to Florida, since it is so close in distance.  I knew once I moved, I would probably not venture back up into the Bloomington area, so better take a road trip this weekend.  So, I went online to check out possible routes.  Three main routes to get to Mall of America:  MOA as the locals refer to it.  One route was all highways (boring).  One route was mostly highways (uh maybe not).  One route up the middle paralleling the Mississippi River (and yes I just sang the M I double S I double S I double P I song in my head) was the third option.  Sold!!  Let’s do that.  It will take about an hour longer, but again, the fun is in the journey. 

I mapped out what was along the route.  Some decisions needed to be made on whether to go through LaCrosse or Onalaska to cross over the Mississippi River into Minnesota.  I chose Onalaska, so started researching things to do in this town of approximately 19,000 people.  Sunny the Sunfish, a Lock and Dam, The Lost Island Winery, and a Great River Trail.  Perfect.  It is about half way between my start and finish line, so will be a great place to stretch my legs and explore the area.  Plans already start to change about 45 minutes into my journey.  I forgot about the Castle Rock near Volk Field.  I must stop and explore.  Change is good, because once I got to Onalaska, plans changed again when I realized the winery doesn’t open for a few more hours and the trail is more of a bike trail and not hiking trail.  Hmmmm, what to do.  Okay, let’s find a hiking trail nearby, and then come back to the winery.  Saw on the Great Trail that there was a different Lock and Dam and possibly a beautiful hiking path in Trempealeau.  It is about 20 minutes north of current location, but then I can drive back south to pick up Sunny the Sunfish and get back on the destination road. 

As I drove, I noticed a brown sign, which is usually something historic or park like.  It said something about a historic bridge area.  I wasn’t able to read it so well, as the writing was small and I was driving about 45 m.p.h. (the speed limit).  Oh well, I will try to slow down when I come back this way, if I do.  Arriving in Trempealeau was exciting as there is a giant catfish to greet you into town.  Of course, I had to stop and take a picture.  It was a huge catfish (and it was wearing a mask…lolol).   I arrived at Lock and Dam No. 6, which is located at Mile 714.1 on the Mississippi River.  Now, this next part I am about to tell you, is absolutely why I love being a Solo Traveler.  I spent the next two hours, yes two hours, watching the gate close, the lock fill up with water, the barge get pushed through, the back gate close, the water lower, then the front gate open and off the barge went.  The whole cycle of passing one barge through the lock took about 45 minutes.  I didn’t actually time it, but that is what it seemed like.  I watched it twice because it is so fascinating.  Ask my daughter!!  She will tell you when she and I went to the Panama Canal, I just stood there in amazement watching the huge cargo ships pass through the canal.  Luckily, there was an ice cream shop, so I could bribe her for a while, but the ice cream was finished and so was she.  This time, it was just me, so I took the two hours to take it all in.  Lock engineering is just so amazing.

Wow, now I was getting hungry so decided to find a local restaurant for a late lunch.  I still have time for the winery.  It closes at 10pm.  Funny, as I don’t even like wine, but I like visiting places and partaking in the local flavors.  Plus, Lost Island just sounds really cool.  Finding a restaurant nearby that looked open didn’t happen, so I decided to head back to Onalaska.  Maybe I will find a restaurant along the way, and maybe even a trail.  Bingo!!!

Found the trail first, so food would have to wait.  Luckily, I had a protein shake on the road, so can hold off hunger for a while longer.  I did slow down for the brown sign which said McGilvray Historic Bridge Road.  Nice, a historic bridge.  Let’s go check it out.  I had my eye out for this bridge or another sign for the bridge.  The sign blended in with the landscaped, so sure enough, I passed it.  Was that even it?  I didn’t see any evidence of a bridge.  I turned around, safely, and drove back.  Doggone if I didn’t pass the sign again.  Maybe that IS it and the bridge is hidden in the woods.  Well, that is nice as I wanted a hike.  What better hike than to a historic bridge?  The parking lot is sort of hidden too, so be on the lookout if you are venturing out this way.  Parked and read the information bulletin to find out that this historic bridge is not just one, but seven.  The Seven Bridges Road, built in the 1800s, created a faster route between LaCrosse and Trempealeau Counties crossing over the Black River.  This hike is a 1.8 mile trek that literally crosses over six bridges (as the seventh one no longer exists).  Highly recommended as it is remote, quiet, and an easy path for walking (no steep grade on this trail).  I found that I was mesmerized by all the wild flowers:  so beautiful, if you are into flora.

Back at the car and now I am really hungry.  Let’s head back to Onalaska to that winery.  Maybe they have food too as the pictures looked like maybe it did.  The route back naturally took me by Sunny, so had to stop there for a moment and “catch” a picture of him.  This is also a beautiful view from the Wisconsin side looking onto the Minnesota side with the Mississippi River in between.  Just made a quick stop here as my tumbly was  grumbly (any Pooh fans?).  And like a light in the middle of darkness, I turned around to see the Blue Moon restaurant looking back at me.  Ahhhhhhh (in angelic voice)!!!  Across the street I went and settled in for a salad, onion rings, and a lemonade.  Yum!!  That hit the spot. 

 I am good to go!!  Let’s get to the winery, check it out, and then keep on trucking to Mall of America.  Just to put into perspective time spent in this whole area, I started out at 7am from Madison, Wisconsin, drove two hours to Onalaska area, and now it is 5pm.  That is how much I enjoyed those few things I did.

Well, The Lost Island Winery was a disappointment.  I guess I was thinking a unique building with a beautiful garden, maybe an island theme.  I didn’t even get out of my car.  I drove by a set of 3 attached buildings with the winery in the middle.  Concrete and brick, nothing special.  Maybe the inside was island themed, but I couldn’t do it.  I just drove by.

On to the Minnesota side.  Wait, another lock.  The one I originally had on my list.  Gotta stop and check this one out to.  Lock and Dam No. 7.  First, you drive over the bridge where you can see the lock, and then you drive around to look up at the bridge.  That is the view of No. 7.  I didn’t spend two hours here, but did spend a moment taking in more of the engineering ingenuity.  Marvelous!

On the road again, to quote the Willie Nelson song, which I do have on my Road Trip 1 CD (customized by me for me).

Going back up to the bridge and heading west with just a few feet before the official Minnesota welcome!!  This hour longer drive is because I wanted to follow the Great River Road.  While a nice road and easy to drive, I went slower so I could take in all the scenery.  There were a few strategically placed overlooks, so I stopped here and there to take a few photos.  Driving west at now 7pm also allows one to watch the sunset.  Gorgeous!

Now, I am about 30 minutes away from my destination.  I had no lodging plans, no reservations made for sleep.  Figured I would get to Bloomington and go from there.  Lo and behold, just a walk across the street, were many hotels to choose.  Let’s go with Tru by Hilton since 1) I am a Hilton Honors member and 2) I have points saved up.  Into the room at 9pm and into a deep sleep I go.  That was Day 1.

Day 2 started off with a bit of laziness, with a bit of deciding whether to get up and do a long run or not.  I soon talked myself out of a long run, and decided to just sleep in and enjoy some rest, then will walk over to the Mall of America.  After all, that was really the whole point of this trip.  Walked over to the Mall around noon (as it only opened at 11am, so didn’t miss much except for the crowds to spread out) and didn’t leave until closing (7pm).  Yep, I spent seven hours inside of a shopping complex.  If any of you know how big Mall of America is; you can totally see why seven hours is fairly reasonable.  The intent was not even really to shop, as I am not a shopper, but I wanted to see how many steps I could get in by walking almost every square inch.  Also, wanted to be able to say, “Yeah, I’ve been to Mall of America.”  Garmin on wrist and off I went.  I did purchase a few things here and there, not much, but boy did I get some steps in: about five miles worth!!  Plenty to see like Legoland and the fantastic larger than life Lego statues; Kaleidoscope, a butterfly display by Christopher Lutter-Gardella; and practically every shop one could hope for.  Lots of food court options to choose from along with a Rainforest Café and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville.  That is where I ended up, in Margaritaville, because I knew it was 5 o’clock somewhere. 

After closing, walked back over to the hotel to do a bit of research for tomorrow’s adventure.  As I walked into the lobby, I noticed the mural on the wall with Prince???  Is that Prince???  Then I vaguely remembered, oh my gosh, I think Prince is from this area.  Sure enough, looked it up and Prince’s Paisley Park is just 30 minutes away.  Well, guess what I am doing tomorrow? Looked up available tours, only one was at 4:30pm tomorrow (Sunday).  Well, darn, I really wanted to be home by then, so maybe I will just go to Paisley Park earlier and see the outside.  Oh, and I also found out that there is another mural of Prince nearby.  I could see that as well on my way out.  Cool.  Day 3 is now planned.

Funny how plans never go as well, planned.  I woke up, and after convincing myself that I was truly going to be in vacation mode and not run on this trip, I woke up feeling antsy to run.  Okay, okay, I will go for a short run.  My friend and I were supposed to run 20 miles this weekend to keep on track with our training.  I wasn’t feeling the 20, but I will do three.  I get dressed, and by the time I leave my room, I think, okay, I could do 5 miles.  Exit out the front door and think, okay, okay, 6 (three out and three back).  I start running and within a mile am bored on the sidewalks and roads because I am so use to running on trails.  Maybe I will just run three. 

Two miles in and I am not sure I can run another mile.  Oh, wait, “How far away is that Prince mural”, I asked myself.  I looked it up and it is about 10 miles away.  Purpose!!  A goal!!  I will run there.  So I ran 10 miles for a total of 13, yes just to see a Prince mural.  The run quickly turned into an “art walk” as many murals decorated the streets.  And yes, 13 miles for Prince because, well, it’s Prince after all.  I had already planned to just run out there and take a RideShare back as I really didn’t want to run 20 miles.  So, I did.

Back at room, quick shower, pack, and head out to Paisley Park.  I go straight there so I can see the wonder of Prince and then head home.  Plans changed again, when I thought, “Hmmmm, wonder if there happens to be an opening in a tour.”  Maybe someone is a no-show.  Looked it up, and YES, there is a tour spot in exactly 8 minutes.  Quick, buy the ticket before someone else gets it.  Done!

Now, what happens in Paisley Park, well, I might say stays in Paisley Park, only because I cannot explain my emotional journey, my emotional connection within Paisley Park.  Truly, I am not sure what happened, but I felt so many emotions as I walked the halls of Paisley Park, the same hallways that Prince did.   Stood in the same rooms as Prince stood.  I was that tourist that the guide had to keep asking to move to the next room.  I felt some connection, some bond of life within these walls.  My experience cannot be put into words.  I only have a few pictures, as in honoring Prince’s wishes of no photography while he lived; the staff continues this respect in his death.  Only a few select areas were allowed to be photographed.  Enjoy, as I encourage you to visit and create your own experience. 

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Fiji in July (2006)

Fiji Diving

Bula!  All I can say is Fiji is absolutely the most beautiful, the clearest, and the warmest place I have ever been.  If you only had a choice of one dive spot, make it Fiji.  You will not regret it.  A group of us went to Fiji on a church mission trip.  A very remote community needed helped to build bungalows for a summer camp sponsored by the local church.  Many of us didn’t even hesitate to raise our hand to help.  I mean, this is Fiji we are talking about.  If you have not been there, or even seen pictures, here is a glimpse of what you might see.

Our group went in July, which is Fiji’s winter, so the warm weather was much enjoyed without being overheated.  The air was fresh, the islands peaceful, and the people were definitely the friendliest that you will find in all of the earth.  In my travels, I usually go to one place, then am ready to move on to the next, wanting to see as much of the world as possible.  Fiji is that one place that I would definitely visit again and again.

THE RESORT

After the mission trip was over, the group had already planned to stay a few extra days as down time before heading back home.  A few less decided to go SCUBA diving.  For the most relaxing getaway, I recommend a wonderful resort named Club Fiji which had its own Fijian flavor restaurant and bar, serving generous portions of food and drink.  The totally timber resort sits right on the Nadi Bay beach where you can horseback ride, enjoy a beachfront massage, or engage in several non-motorized water activities.  Everything (except your room) is in the outdoors with a thatched roof, so you can feel the warm breeze and breathe the fresh air at all times. The rooms were small double-sided bures (cottages), which held 2-3 people very comfortably, each with its own bath, refrigerator, and coffee/tea maker.  The sounds at night were of birds and waves.  No traffic, no stress, and no worries (which became my mantra). 

Club Fiji is easy to get to from the airport, as it is less than 5 miles from the Nadi Airport and less than 3 miles from the downtown area (but since I am a runner/walker, easily walked too as well).  Taxis are readily available and fairly inexpensive.  The downtown area was full of shops from souvenir type shops to full scale retail stores to specialty stores.  The resort can arrange a ride for you and are happy to do so.  There is also a travel agent there helping with any excursion you might want to partake in – skydiving, hiking, waterfalls, farmer’s markets, and of course, diving.  For those of you who can’t handle the disconnect from the electronic world, downtown Nadi had an Internet Café or two, but I was glad not to use it. 

THE DIVE SHOP

Taveuni – I recommend the dive shop at the Garden Island Resort Taveuni.  The shop was small, but had all the necessities for equipment rental; not much on buying extra gear or accessories.  The dive boat was small with just about 5 or so other travelers on it, but made for a very intimate setting, which was most enjoyed.  The dive masters were even more enjoyable.  They were friendly and so much fun to hang out with on the dives. 

Nadi Bay – For the life of me, I can’t remember the name, but do remember the shop had all the equipment needed.  I found that the dive masters in Taveuni were much friendlier than the ones here (and if I ever remember, I will post it).

THE DIVES

The first two dives were in Taveuni, nearby a remote village on the island of Vita Levu.  You can hire a boat to take you to Taveuni.  If diving is not your thing, you might enjoy the Waitavala Waterslide and waterfalls, a natural waterslide in a rainforest setting.  Taveuni is the more populated and touristy island of Fiji.  The resorts are bigger and geared towards the tourist, so of course, think of price when you book your vacation to Fiji.  Taveuni does have its own airport, so you can fly directly there. 

In order to best describe the dives, imagine being in the film “Finding Nemo”.  If you have ever seen that movie, then you have seen the under waters of Fiji.  I literally swam with Nemo, and Dori, Gill, and Crush, or at least a family member of each.  I couldn’t believe all the colors and variety of fish that I saw.  I know the number one rule in diving is not to hold your breath, but it was all I could do to breathe in all the amazement of marine life.

The first dive lasted a glorious 45 minutes exploring The Ledge at 66 feet which has brilliant colors of fish like triggerfish, bannerfish, angelfish, and butterfly fish with many colors of basslets, wrasse, and damsel fish.  The depth did not comprise color or clarity as the visibility was over 100 feet.  I also had a bonus of seeing a soft coral (of the Family Alcyoniidae), that when touched turned a different color; simply amazing.  I truly enjoyed this dive with little current and much to explore.

The second dive at Jerry’s Jelly was even more brilliant, if there was such a thing.  At 60 feet, I received another bonus of seeing a coral actually “disappear” when touched (shrinking inside their tubes really quickly).  How much amazement can one person handle?  I was delightfully overwhelmed with all the beauty.  Also in view was a few white-tip sharks, a moray eel, the “Nemo Gang”, and various colors of common sea fans ranging from purple to deep burgundy with many oranges and reds all around.

The second two dives were in Nadi Bay near Club Fiji. After the dive, I was conveniently dropped off right in front of my room at the resort.  Only had to walk a few feet in the water to get to shore.  That was a special treat.

The third dive went to the Tavarua Wall which took me down 70 feet along all the while just drifting the entire dive.  No color or clarity was lost in the drift.  On this dive, I could see beyond 100+ feet.  The “now usual” Nemo Gang was hanging out, plus an orange-spine unicornfish and a humphead bannerfish.  After drifting for 35 minutes (kind of a short dive – still with 1200psi in my tank) I surfaced over 600 feet from our boat, but thankfully the boat came around to pick me up, so need to swim to it.  So nice just relaxing on top in such a gorgeous, sunny body of water.

The last dive was to Wilke’s Passage, which was named after a U.S. Navy Captain Charles Wilke’s, who explored the South Pacific.  The area is also known as the Fish Market and that becomes apparent once you descend down the 50 feet to the bottom.  I felt like I was in the fish’s way, as everywhere you turned were schools upon schools of fish.  Emperor angelfish, masked bannerfish, and trumpetfish were plentiful.  I was as happy as a kid in a candy store (that’s about the only way I know to describe it).

I enjoyed every bit of this trip.  The diving was great, the people were greater, and the peace felt after being there, disconnected from all other parts of the world, was simply unmatched by any other place that I have traveled.  “No worries” became a lifestyle, not just a phrase.  The only warning I can give you about Fiji is beware of the Kava.  That is for another time!!

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Door County Weekend Road Trip (July 10-12, 2020)

Door County Road Trip

It started off as just a typical “Let’s go camping weekend”, but it soon turned into a “Let’s see how much of Door County we can squeeze in in a weekend!”

The Solo Traveler invited a few friends on this journey as we traversed the Door County area.  Where is Door County?  Imagine the state shape of Wisconsin.  See the “thumb”?  That is where Door County resides, between the Green Bay area and Lake Michigan.  This past weekend, the weather was so perfect for not only camping, but running, and sipping cherry drinks outside.  Yes, seems wherever I have gone lately there has been some adult beverage involved.  The funny thing is, I don’t even drink a lot, but when I do, I enjoy the local flavor of the area.  This area is known for cherries: cherry pie, cherry lemonade, cherry mimosa, cherry jams.  This time of year, the cherry blossoms have gone, but the fruit is now visible.  Red dots covered the orchards on the roadsides.

So, one of the best parts of traveling with friends, is traveling with friends who know the area.  This is how we squeezed a week’s worth of stuff into one weekend. 

We arrived on Friday night, around 9pm to our campsite, thanks to me for taking the long away around Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek.  Got settled in rather quickly, then enjoyed a small fire.  Off to sleep so we could wake up refreshed the next morning, because with any vacation, one must run.  What better way to see the park than to run 13.1 miles of it.  We stayed to the bike trail and enjoyed views right by the water’s edge. 

After the run, a quick lunch, but delicious homemade pizzas.  Thanks Jessie for whipping that up so quickly.  Absolutely hit the spot, so we could be on our way for some Door County Tastings!!

First stop, Door County Distillery.  They offer six samples of wine/spirits for free.  I still can’t believe it. I kept asking, are you sure this is free.  I felt so guilty that I went ahead and purchased a Cherry Lemonade Moonshine to help cleanse the pallet in between tastings.  Tip on the moonshine, be prepared if you indulge in the moonshine saturated cherry that tops off the drink.  Just sayin’!

Stopped in at the gift shop to make some Christmas gift purchases, then drove just a little ways north to the One Barrel Brewing Company.  Now, I don’t like beer, but this was a nice place to sit a spell outside in the gorgeous, gorgeous sunshine and munch on some pork rinds.  Those that know me, know I don’t eat pork, so don’t fall off your chair.  These pork rinds were plant based and absolutely delicious.  I just had to try them and see if they were any good.  Yep, ate the whole bag.

It is now nearing late afternoon, so we head back to Fish Creek to do some window shopping.  Okay, I did buy a few things.  I couldn’t help it, there were anchors everywhere.  We took in the little shops that lined the town, before going to our next adventure/experience, a fish boil.  Have you ever been to a fish boil?  I hadn’t and boy was it amazing.  Luckily, I got to watch the demonstration twice because the first time I was in so much amazement, that my eyes couldn’t take it the “explosion” in its entirety.  The second time around, I watched while filming in slow motion so I could go back and let my eyes take it all in slowly.  The fish boil is highly recommended at Pelletier’s. 

We thought we were done for the night, but remembered ice cream.  We went in search of, had some great places to choose from, but alas, we were still so full from the fish boil (two pieces of fish, potatoes, onions, bread, and a piece of cherry pie), that we postponed that part of our meal. 

Now, it’s time to drive back to camp so we can pick up our chairs?  Why?  The sun is about to set over the water, and it is not to be missed.  Do remember a chair though, as the as the benches can only hold so many people.  And many people view the sunset.  The sun sets right into the water and is so relaxing to sit in the comfort of a camp chair and take it all in.

We skipped the fire on Saturday night as we pooped from the day and tomorrow will be another packed day of fun.

Sunday morning, oatmeal breakfast, packed tents, and more to see.  Off to see some goats.  These are not just any goats.  These goats live on a roof of a Swedish restaurant called Al Johnson’s in Sister Bay.  Now that is a sight to see.  I would definitely recommend visiting there.  Be warned, to get a table, the line may be a bit long, because who doesn’t want to eat where goats live above on the roof.  Make sure to give yourself time in Sister Bay because the town is cutesy for sure.  Cute shops line the street as well as a small walkway lines the shore.  We stopped for breather here; one last deep breathe before heading back home.

The route back home had other detours along the way, because we were so close to Northport (the furthest point on the Wisconsin “thumb”), might as well drive there.  Northport led to Gills Rock that led to Bailey’s Harbor, where we stopped for lunch.  How many cute little towns can Door County have?  Every single one is cute!  Lunch was found at Harbor Fish Market and Grille:  great outdoor seating overlooking the water with fabulous service.  After lunch, a little window shopping, then back on the road to home.

Speaking of home, we made one last detour to Algoma.  Where is and what’s in Algoma?  It may not be a typical tourist stop, but when your friend used to live there, you just have to go see her home.  Thanks Jessie for sharing with us where you grew up.  Algoma is a cute town and guess what?  It has a winery.  We had to stop in at the von Stiehl Winery, Wisconsin’s oldest licensed winery, and partake in a tasting.  I found a few favorites despite the fact that I usually don’t like wine.  I do like the sweet versions so found an Orange Muscat, a Sweet Cherry, and a Sparkling Crimson Royale.  I may or may not have bought a few bottles; to support the local economy of course.  A bottle or two may or may not be given as a Christmas gift this year. A bottle may or may not get drunk before that.  Who knows?  LOL

The beauty of traveling solo is that you can detour and zig and zag at will.  Usually, when you are traveling with others, these opportunities are lost.  I have to say though, this trip, we zigged, we zagged, and we LOVED it.

If you are looking for a long week or a jam-packed weekend, Door County is the place to be.  Go to relax, go to drink, or go to be active.  Door County has everything.  Thank you Door County for the hospitality!!

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Coleman, Wisconsin Day Trip (March 7, 2020)

Smooth Sailing Rum

So being a Solo Traveler does not always mean a far away destination for weeks at a time.  You will get to read more of those stories soon to Tanzania, Romania, and Iceland, but for this next adventure, I only drove 2.5 hours away, spent a matter of 30 minutes at my destination, then turned around and drove back home.  Where in the world is such a place that is worth a 2.5 hour drive just to spend 30 minutes?  Well, it is a town called Coleman, Wisconsin.  Yes, I had to look it up too to find out it is north of Green Bay and only a population of 836; no not thousands, just 836 people. 

What in the world could have driven me to such a small, not much going on kind of town?  A town with what is called a Main Street, but there is nothing main about it.  It is truly one of those towns that if you blink, you will miss it, as I did.  I was in search of one building.  I looked left when I should have looked right, then next thing I know I am out of town headed for some farm land.  Had to turn back around and creep through town, looking for that one structure.  Not even sure it was a whole structure by itself, as it looked like it was connected to another building.

Finally, I saw it; the red door that was the entrance into the reason I was there.  I had found…wait, wait.  I should probably tell you a bit of the back story first. 

When I travel, I love to find the local thing, the local product whether it is local food, local drink, or local event.  That is what makes the trip even more special, is to indulge into the local flair.  As you can see from my Wisconsin Rapid trip, I indulged in “craneberries”.  So what is in Coleman, Wisconsin for one to indulge in?  How many times can I say indulge in one paragraph?  LOL.

I have a fascination, a curiosity to a particular liquid drink.  Wherever I am in the world, I research to see if there is such a liquid drink factory in the nearby area.  Most areas so far have had such a factory from Flensburg, Germany to Negril, Jamaica to the island of Mauritius.  So living in Wisconsin, home of beer, brats, and cheese curds, AND cranberries, of course, I wondered, could there be such a factory in Wisconsin?  It didn’t even dawn on me to look the first year I was here, as I thought the state was flooded by beer only.  I soon learned that bourbon is also a thing here with the Old Fashions. Bourbon does connect Wisconsin to my Kentucky roots.  I do not like the taste of bourbon though.

So, here I am wondering around in Woodman’s (the locally employee-owned supermarket) and notice they have a liquor store off the main drag.  Go in there just to see what kind of liquor beverages are “on tap” and what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a bottle of Smooth Sailing Rum, but no tiny reindeer.  It was like one of those moments when all is right in the world.  RUM!  That is my jam!!  The bottle has an anchor on it with a rope, NOW you have my full attention.  I was a Navy Sailor once upon a career, and me and anchors go way back.  So, I was thinking, didn’t matter what the rum tasted like, I wanted it.  I needed to add it to my collection.

But, getting back to buying local, just because rum is in a grocery store doesn’t mean it is from the area.  I turn the bottle over curious where it was made, and another AHHHHH, all is right with the world, it had a Wisconsin address; Coleman, Wisconsin to be exact.  So where in the heck is Coleman?  I googled right then and there to find out Coleman is only 2.5-ish hours away.  It was 4pm, so not going to happen today, I thought.  It was Wednesday.  Could I wait for the weekend?  Did I need to take a day off work to go to Coleman?  I decided to do some more research.  Was it an active distillery?  Did the company provide tours?  What was the company that distilled it?  Is toffee the only flavor (as indicated on this bottle) that was distilled?  So many questions, so I emailed the “contact us” link.  Had a wonderful chat with Curt, the owner, who is so busy and pretty much a one-man show, who also said he doesn’t have time for tours.  Thanked me for my 24-year Navy service and said I could find Smooth Sailing Rum in just about any liquor store or grocery store; just had to click on the location link to find where sold. 

I thanked him for his time and then mapped out where Coleman is and how to get there.  Hmmmmm, even though no distillery tours and no retail shop, still had in my mind that in order to truly enjoy Smooth Sailing Rum from Coleman, Wisconsin, I must drive to Coleman, Wisconsin and see for myself.  I needed to experience Coleman with its 836 population, take a driving tour, and stop at a local liquor store to buy my rum.  So, on Saturday, I fueled up my car and headed north.  Fortunately, it was a gorgeous day for driving and I had no other plans than to drive, oh about 5 hours round trip, in search of rum.  Found out it is made by The North Woods Distillery and so on I drove, past Appleton, past Osh Kosh, past Green Bay, and many other little towns in between, and then the sign of Coleman came into view.

And now you know the rest of the story, almost.  Yep, drove right past the red door because I was looking to my left instead of right, turned around, and ahhhhhhh, there it was, the North Woods Distillery sign above the little red door.  Yep, it was closed as it is truly just a distillery with no tours and no retail shop.  Not that I thought Curt was lying to me, just wanted to see it for myself.  I parked, took some pictures (in a Chevy Chase type Vacation moment), hopped back in my car, then drove to the nearest liquor store (which was inside the Cougar Shell gas station) to purchase my bottle (okay I bought two bottles because I thought I would have the first bottle empty in a matter of weeks).  LOL

Bought my two bottles, and headed home!!!!

Got home and had my first taste of this awesomeness called Smooth Sailing Rum (Toffee flavor).  My oh my, no other ingredient needed.  You can “smooth”ly take a shot without burn or after taste.  The toffee really makes it a drink all its own, but yes it makes a great base for mixed cocktails as well.  

I took it to a party, which started a chain reaction of friends buying their own bottle or two.  Pretty sure I am responsible for selling about 15 bottles!!!

So, a toast to The Solo Traveler who goes 5 hours out of their way for a perfect bottle of rum!!!

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook

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Pictured Rocks Weekend Camping (June 19-21, 2020)

Kayaking Pictured Rocks

Looking for that picture perfect getaway?  Look no further than Munising, Michigan.  Never heard of it?  What about Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?  To say this area is extraordinarily beautiful would still be an understatement.  The colors, the layers, the formations are truly picture perfect, especially by kayak.  Where are Munising and Pictured Rocks?  It is in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan or the UP as locals call it.  Once you have been on the waters of Lake Superior, you will understand how the lakeshore got its name. 

If you don’t know where Munising is, you may want to look it up, as it is as far north as one can get in Michigan without a boat.  We were literally on the north side of the land bridge that connects Michigan to Wisconsin above Lake Michigan.  The drive for us was about five hours, and was a beautiful drive hugging the coast line of the great lake of Michigan crossing into the peninsula, and eventually landed on the land mass that separates Lake Michigan from Lake Superior.  Did you know that Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes?  Did you know that Lake Superior is the coldest of the lakes?  Did you know that Lake Superior has a depth of over 1300 feet in some locations?  There is a volcano under all that water.  Well, I now have 1001 facts about Lake Superior and the Great Lakes, but like with the cranberries, will not share them all here.  You’ll just have to stop in and gather your own facts.  I just kept learning more and more as we paddled along the lakeshore of Pictured Rocks on our 11 mile kayak journey. 

But wait, let me back up just a bit as we didn’t just drive up and jump in our kayaks.  We drove to the Bay Furnace campground, which is part of the Hiawatha National Forest, where we set up camp for the weekend.  Where is that you say?  In Christmas!  Yep, there is a town called Christmas, population 1071, and the Bay Furnace is located right there.  A big Santa statue greets you on your way in, but don’t blink, or you will miss Christmas.  Cute little town with a casino and a couple of local favorite restaurants.    

Having a long weekend was just the right amount of time for this trip.  Left Friday morning, drove the five hours through small towns and beautiful scenery with a few stops along the way.  Thankful for Escanaba as that was the last “big” town before hitting the UP.  Make sure you gas up there, not only your car, but yourself as well.  We actually stopped at a sandwich shop, then drove to the State Fair Grounds nearby to have a picnic style lunch at the park’s gazebo.  Perfect place to stop and stretch the legs before getting back into the car and heading to the campground.

Once at the campground, we were thankful the rain held off, so we could set up tents and go on a short walk around the area.  Lake Superior borders the grounds with a beautiful view of the massive body of water.  Time to take some selfies and explore the area.  Nearby is the namesake of the campground where iron ore was smelted so many decades ago.  Did you know that glass rock can be found along the shoreline?  But as researched has shown, it is obsidian or is it iron slag?  Obsidian is made by the forces of volcanic nature while slag is made by the forces of man.  Go do some exploration of the shoreline around Bay Furnace and see what you think.  Is is Obsidian or slag??  Since both volcanic activity and iron ore activities took place in this same area, it could be either!!  Curious to see what everyone else thinks. 

Now time to walk back to camp for some dinner and to rest up for our paddling adventure the next day.

Saturday comes and it is rainy, but after all is said and done, rain should not be a show stopper, because kayaking in and around this lakeshore was so worth it.  This is the part of the story where I became that Solo Traveler.  My friends were already coupled up, leaving me to be the solo rider in a tandem kayak.  I didn’t know all the kayaks were tandem.  So that changed the dynamics, but to my benefit, I got to partner up with the tour guide.  SCORE!!   I got all the touristy info and then some, and some really cool backside photos.  Logan was so well versed in Pictured Rock geology and history, it was awesome to have him in my kayak spitting off fact after fact.  You know, all those 1001 facts about Pictured Rocks and Lake Superior.  But sorry, you don’t get all the facts here, so you will just have to plan a trip with Uncle Ducky and hear the facts for yourself.  I can tell you though; Pictured Rocks is nothing like I have ever seen.  The colors that literally paint the rocks are fascinating with the reds and oranges of iron, the browns and blacks of manganese, the white of limonite; and if you are lucky, the teal/blue of copper.  Going through split rocks and small caves to sandy beaches was just so amazing.  The landscape of the area is hard to put into words.  Is hard to paint a picture (huh pun on words).  Pictured Rocks is truly a must see to comprehend.   So, go ahead and plan your next trip to Lake Superior and Pictured Rocks.  I promise you will not be disappointed.  Well, you might be disappointed if you are not an outdoorsy person, so keep that in mind, but if you love kayaking, exploring nature, and geological wonders, then definitely plan your next trip to Munising.

And yes, while Munising is a small town, there are plenty of restaurants, like Foggy’s, where we gorged after the all day water ride.  Oh, oh, and you must have a Pasty (rhymes with nasty)!!!  What is a Pasty?  I had to ask the same question.  It is best described as a crimped pastry filled with goodies like meat, potatoes, vegetables, or any variety thereof.  There is also a few breakfast versions with sausage and eggs.  My friends recommended I try one as it is the UP thing to do.  I did.  I loved it.  It was a great complement to the six mile run a few of us had done on Sunday morning before packing up and leaving.

Yes, if you are a runner, the trails that border the lakeshore are simply gorgeous.  Early morning run with the mist coming in off the lake is truly peaceful.  Thanks to Dr. J for running with me and sharing in the Terabithian experience! 

Thank you to my friends who made this trip so special, as I hung up my Solo Traveler hat briefly and embraced the value of friendship.

Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want:

Alli L

For all the photos, go to @TheSoloTraveler50 on Facebook