Colonial Williamsburg

the Governor's Palace (photo by Naomi)

When Amy, Libby, and Naomi came east for vacation, we booked a weekend to explore Colonial Williamsburg together. What a treat!

enjoying a shady break (it was hot!)

We bought tickets and played "real" tourists with our backpacks of water and snacks, and Naomi's snazzy camera.

We enjoyed several historic tours-- one of our favorites was of a tavern (public house).

On Sunday morning we visited the local parish for Eucharist and some amazing Mozart.

at the brickyard

packing

A few of my favorite kitchen items:

Malawian basket for serving bread and muffins

tiny spoons for tea

Zambian "cooking stick" (wooden spoon) for all things cooking and baking

stack-able cooling racks (such a wonderful invention!)

tea/serving trays

a French press

black pepper grinder

wooden cutting board/s

miniature bowls

stick blender

a good 9x13 metal pan

pretty, small plates (I only have one here)

little buddy

I can't wait to see this cute baby soon!

apartment shopping...

Sharon and I spent several hours of our lives the past few weeks shopping for a place to live.

This past year we've been renting from a couple who spent the year living overseas. Since their return tickets are booked for July, we figure now is the time to vacate so they can return to their own house sans our presence and our stuff.

We looked at a lot of options online.

We made our "non-negotiable" qualities list (which included private laundry area), as well as our wish lists items (which for me included: no pets allowed, and as little carpet as possible), and then we divided to conquer. Together we would select a few potential properties. Then, we'd each choose a couple to follow up on, setting up scouting visits when possible. We snapped pictures and had evening report sessions after each property visit.

I felt a little like Goldilocks on a house hunt...

too far to commute

too expensive

too 70's

too "odd"

too small

too much carpet

...

We finally settled on a place we hope will be just right:

Two of my faves about this housing option:

1) wooden floors and neutral walls

2) a walk-able commute to the office (one of my dreams come true!)

So next time you plan a visit to Pennsylvania, don't forget to plan a little stop at our new abode.

Strawberry Smoothie

I've been enjoying strawberry season these days. 

a place to stay

As I mentioned previously, Heather and I stayed in a delightful Airbnb during our recent adventuring trip to Tennessee. 

I especially loved the artful combinations of old and new interior design. Also, all the little extras (like laundry soap, snacks, and K-cups) were warm touches that left me dreaming of future someday days when I may once again be involved in a more formal hospitality setting...

I love, love, loved this kitchen!

The high ceilings in every room were another favorite part of the house. So luxurious.

If you're ever looking for a great place to stay in Bristol, I would highly recommend this adorable Airbnb.

more Tennessee pics

Laurel Falls in northern Tennessee

looking down when hiking out from the waterfall

Tea in Carlisle

photo by Naomi

Amy, Libby, and Naomi came to Pennsylvania for a visit. On their way to Joel and Judith's, the four of us met up for tea in Carlisle.

It was a delightful afternoon. 

Sisters are best.

obviously if you want the best photos of the afternoon, check in with Amy and Naomi

second course

Libby's opinion of all the photo-taking...
something about enjoying the moment and just EATING :)

The mountains and the hills

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace. 

The mountains and the hills will burst into song before you. 

~Isaiah 55:12a

Cootie Brown's

Saturday evening, Heather and I went out for dinner at Cootie Brown's, a local Bristol establishment which specializes in an eclectic smattering of dishes from various ethnic families-- Jamaican, Italian, Mexican, and American to name a few.

We chose the Formaggio sandwich (highly recommended by a local shop owner)-- fresh tomato, spinach, mozzarella and toasted bun with pesto sauce on the side-- and the Taco-Rito, a massive enchilada covered in mole, cheddar cheese, and black olives.

Very different food genres, but both done well.

Cootie Brown's is worth a visit next time you're in Bristol. I think you'll find it to be a unique, fun, and tasty stop.