The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
As you are reading this we are out on the road on our latest road trip exploring Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and West Virginia. One of our family's favorite ways to explore is through taste and as I was researching our trip I came across a ton of stuff I know we'll just have to try. At home we try to eat healthfully buying organic when we can, eating lean meats and lots of veggies and trying to limit sweets and … [Read more...]
So much of this trip was a sobering reality check that left us understanding the bitter divide between North and South and the everyday souls who endured so much for their cause. Often times words could not describe our feelings looking at the battlefields and learning the personal stories of brave Americans, from decorated generals to those barely old enough to enlist. But not everything on this trip revolved around … [Read more...]
My kids and I have now planned and taken 16 road trips and while I think I've fine tuned the process it seems I still have more to learn. On our last trip to NY, NJ and PA, in my zeal to cover a lot of ground in a limited amount of time we rushed through and missed a lot of stuff I wished we'd taken the time to see. Of course there were other factors involved like bad weather, losing my wallet and a rush to get back … [Read more...]
When I told my kids our first stop was Baltimore they were a little put off with images of gritty city life with run down streets. I will admit Baltimore does have some sort or tough urban reputation to those not in the know but once we set foot in the city any illusions we had were quickly shattered. We found ourselves in a beautiful city rich with cultural heritage and diversity set against the backdrop of deeply … [Read more...]
One of the first things my kids and I do as we plan a road trip is to find out what is the city's top ice cream spot. Doing a little digging and reading the reviews, all arrows pointed to the Charmery as a place we just had to check out. Interestingly enough, Lilia's college friends based in Baltimore hadn't heard of it so we sent them to do a little reconnaissance and they came back with huge thumbs up. It just goes … [Read more...]
Sometimes we start a project and the benefits that we derive from it exceed our expectations in ways we could never imagine. I don't think Val Pentony ever thought back in 2004 when she started her quest to see all 50 by 50 what kind of impact it would have on her, her family and her friends. Her project has not only inspired deeply felt patriotism, but also a love of learning and an appreciation … [Read more...]
There are a few ways to get a more up close and personal experience at the falls provided you don't mind getting a little wet, and if it's a super hot day like it was when we were there, it can actually be quite refreshing. After finding out that the Maid of The Mist, the boat that cruises up to the falls was completely sold out, we discovered the Cave Of The Winds which turned out to be quite a fun and memorable … [Read more...]
There are many ways to take in the storied Brooklyn Bridge. You can walk across it, cruise under it, or just take it in from the shore. We opted for option number three which we recommend from the Brooklyn side where you can enjoy some ice cream or pizza at Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory or Juliana's while you stroll along with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop to the beautiful bridge. The first thing I thought … [Read more...]
A true Brooklyn original and a local favorite, this is a pizza you just go to try. Like anywhere in Brooklyn, parking may be a bit of a challenge but don't be discouraged, it's all totally worth it. Beyond the deliciousness of the pizza and adding to the whole experience, the local ambiance is straight out of a movie. This place has been around since 1939 so they must be doing something right! For the uninitiated, … [Read more...]
Sometimes to come across something by happenstance and it totally knocks your socks off. After a very mediocre lunch in the historic district, we happened to walk by Capofitto. The beautiful gelato display made us weak in the knees and there was no way we were going to pass it without taking a taste. As soon as the spoons hit our tongues, we were sold. This gelato was magical and by far the creamiest, smoothest, … [Read more...]
