25th Anniversary Trip to Maui :: As Noted By Me If you’ve ever wondered what the perfect way to celebrate 25 years of marriage looks like, let me paint you a picture: a dreamy oceanfront resort, sea turtles basking on the shore, a humpback whale basically inviting himself into our vacation album, and yes - me, surprisingly under 100 on the Plantation Course. (Miracles do happen.) For our silver anniversary, we traded our everyday chaos for palm trees and aloha at the Ritz-Carlton Maui , Kapalua. And let me just say, this place is the kind of peaceful luxury that whispers, “Please stay forever.” Every detail, from the lush landscape to the scent of plumeria in the breeze, set the tone for a getaway we’ll never forget. BONUS - it's a Marriott property so save those points because this is the place to use them! This trip wasn’t just about unwinding, it was about celebrating, recharging, and, of course, adventuring in all the best ways. If there’s one thing I learned after just one visit, it’s this: a week simply isn’t enough. We packed everything into six whirlwind days, but we could’ve easily stayed ten. And the best part? We still have five more Hawaiian islands waiting to be explored. Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua :: As Noted By Me Golfing at The Plantation Course: A Bucket-List Swing We are a golf loving bunch, as many of you know. Death, taxes, and a Hough on the golf course. The Plantation Course at Kapalua Golf was high on our list of "must play" destinations and we are already counting down the days until we can bring the family back for a round. Set on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains, the Plantation Course at Kapalua is one of the most iconic courses in the world, and home to the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions. With dramatic ocean views and wide fairways, it’s as breathtaking as it is challenging. We booked a morning round and I went in with one goal: break 100. And guess what? It happened! The course was stunning, the wind kept us humble, and the experience felt more like a dream than a scorecard and in the distance we enjoyed the breaching whales on the horizon. The Plantation Course :: As Noted By Me The Plantation Course :: As Noted By Me The Plantation Course :: As Noted By Me The Plantation Course :: As Noted By Me The Plantation Course :: As Noted By Me Mama's Magic For a special occasion lunch, we headed to Mama’s Fish House , an island institution. Located in Paia, Mama’s Fish House is legendary for good reason. Set right on the beach and surrounded by coconut palms, it blends old Hawaii charm with five-star cuisine. Each dish is crafted using local fish caught daily by fishermen whose names often appear right on the menu. Everything, from the beachfront views to the catch-of-the-day, was stunning. The vibe was vintage Hawaii meets culinary heaven. If you go, make a reservation early ( months  in advance) and go hungry. Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Mama's Fish House :: As Noted By Me Ho’okipa Beach Park: Sea Turtle Heaven Located on Maui’s North Shore near Paia, Ho’okipa Beach Park is a world-renowned windsurfing spot and a popular gathering place for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), especially around sunset. We made the stop in the mid-day sun during our travels to Mama's Fish House. We were prepared for the possibility we would not see them as we had many hours until sunset. But, as we stood watching the incredible surf pounding so effortlessly, there they were. We sat, in quiet awe, as the sea turtles slowly made their way onto the beach, blending into the rocks like ancient guardians of the shoreline. A handful of them came ashore, undisturbed by the crowd - just doing what they’ve done for centuries. It was peaceful, humbling, and honestly a bit emotional. Ho’okipa Beach Park :: As Noted By Me Ho’okipa Beach Park :: As Noted By Me Ho’okipa Beach Park :: As Noted By Me Ho’okipa Beach Park :: As Noted By Me Whale, Hello There Maui’s whale watching season typically runs from November through May, with peak viewing between January and March. During these months, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm, shallow waters to breed and give birth. On the water with Trilogy Excursions , we experienced one of the most magical moments of the trip: a young male humpback whale swam right up to our boat… and stayed. For almost 40 minutes, he circled us, rolled, splashed, and seemed just as curious about us as we were about him. It felt personal. It felt rare. And it reminded me why we travel...to witness moments that change us. We purchased the professional photos of our new whale friend from the boat's photographer, Claire, from Island Dream Productions . Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Whale Watch :: As Noted By Me Sunset Dinner at Merriman’s: Toasting to Friendship and Fresh Starts One evening, we met up with dear friends, one of whom recently retired, at the stunning Merriman’s Kapalua, a cliffside restaurant famous for its sunset views and warm aloha spirit. Founded by Chef Peter Merriman, one of the pioneers of the Hawaiian Regional Cuisine movement, this restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and island-inspired flavors. With the ocean just steps away and live Hawaiian music drifting through the air, it felt like we’d stepped into a postcard. The food was exceptional, from the fresh catch to the handmade desserts, but what made the night truly special was the company. Before we’d even opened our menus, the staff arrived with glasses of champagne to celebrate the big three - our 25th anniversary, his recent retirement, and friendship. It was one of those golden moments where life slows down, laughter flows freely, and gratitude lingers long after the last bite. Merriman's :: As Noted By Me Merriman's :: As Noted By Me Merriman's :: As Noted By Me Merriman's :: As Noted By Me Why We Go It’s never easy to carve out time for just the two of us. Life, family, work...it's all a wonderful blur. All of you can relate. But this trip reminded us why “Away We Go” matters. Why it’s essential. Why it’s worth it. Celebrating 25 years together in Maui was more than just a milestone. It was a love letter to everything we’ve built and everything still ahead. We reconnect, recharge, and remember who we are, not just as parents or professionals, but as two people who chose each other 25 years ago. Here’s to the places that fill your soul, the friends who make the moments sweeter, and the adventures that remind you how far you’ve come—and how much more there is to see. With aloha, Jos

The Teacher by Freida McFadden If you’re like me and live for a “one more chapter” kind of book, The Teacher  will hook you hard. It’s dark, addictive, and deliciously twisty. Nothing is what it seems, and the reveal? Chef’s kiss. McFadden knows how to build suspense without sacrificing character. As Noted By Me I started this late at night thinking I’d read a few chapters and ended up finishing it at 2am. No regrets. It made me think about what it takes to keep secrets buried—especially when the stakes are personal. Coming next month: Ready for a seaside wedding with a side of chaos? Pack your bags.

Sip Happens Today we raise our glasses in celebration of National Red Wine Day, a day dedicated to one of the oldest and most beloved beverages in the world. While the origins of this specific holiday aren’t centuries-old like the drink itself, wine lovers across the U.S. have marked August 28th as a moment to pause and savor a pour of something bold, rich, and timeless. A Sip of History Red wine has been part of human culture for thousands of years - archeologists have traced its production back to around 6000 BC in what is now Georgia (the country, not the state). From the vineyards of ancient Greece and Rome to the rolling hills of Bordeaux and Tuscany, red wine has always been more than a drink - it’s been a companion to meals, conversations, celebrations, and family tradition. Fun Facts to Toast With     •    The world’s oldest known winery is over 6,000 years old, discovered in an Armenian cave.     •    Studies often link moderate red wine consumption (hello, antioxidants in resveratrol!) with heart health.     •    The most planted grape in the world? Cabernet Sauvignon.     •    Fun twist: despite the romantic image of red wine being aged forever, most bottles are actually meant to be enjoyed within five years of release. My Favorites, As Noted By Me Over the years on my blog, I’ve had the joy of sharing a few reds that stand out for their flavor and the memories that come with them. A couple of my favorites I’ve written about on As Noted By Me include:     •    A silky Pinot Noir perfect for cozy fall dinners. Amici Pinot Noir 2022 - $44.99 This is one of the best Pinot Noir's I've ever tasted. I'm thankful the expert at Total Wine led me here :) It is a legit sexy sip  and feels balanced with berries, a hint of spice, and a velvety finish. This will be on my Thanksgiving table - it is made for that "big time" meal. I hope you love it just as much!     •    A bold Cabernet Sauvignon that paired beautifully with a celebratory meal. Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles  $54.97 This is the perfect wine to serve on Thanksgiving. Austin Hope's Cab has been a favorite at many special moments the last 10 years of my life. It is smooth, dark and complex without being "too much" of all those things that make a Cab just a bit "more" than other reds. I enjoy the fruit, warm spice and the very subtle touch of mocha, tea and tobacco. If you have not tried this pour, run out NOW and treat yourself on Turkey Day or on a day to celebrate an exceptionally good wine.     •    And a Zinfandel that reminded me just how versatile red wine can be. Frog's Leap Zinfandel 2020 - $46.99 Powerful and spicy, this incredible favorite of mine has more body than most Zinfandels but still has the fruity notes you expect from the varietal. With mild hints of vanilla and black pepper it makes this a lovely wine with spicy dishes, beef, game, and bbq. If you're wanting to celebrate something special, choose this one and if you're in Napa Valley you should visit the Frog's Leap Winery. It is at the top of my list each time we visit. The wine tasting and grounds are incredibly well done, and their gardens are a must see! These bottles weren’t just about taste - they were about moments shared with friends and family, meals made more memorable, and little notes of life I’ve collected along the way. A Final Toast So whether you’re uncorking a bottle of your tried-and-true favorite or exploring a new varietal, today is the perfect excuse to slow down, sip, and savor. Red wine has always been about connection - between people, between food and flavor, between past and present. Here’s to celebrating the stories in every glass. Until next pour, Jos

Back at it again - with another year-long book journey! Twelve months. Twelve books. One happy reader. I’m bringing back my monthly book series on the blog, and August’s pick is Just For The Summer by Abby Jimenez - aka, the perfect blend of heart, humor, and heat. Read along, catch the monthly recap, or just pop in to see what I’m feeling about fictional people this time around. Let’s turn the page together ❤️ Just For The Summer by Abby Jimenez There’s something about Abby Jimenez books that feels like settling in with a glass of wine and a best friend. Just for the Summer  delivers exactly that - equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. Emma and Justin’s connection is effortless, but their belief that love isn’t meant for them? That’s the real tension. I laughed, I swooned, and yes, I cried a little. As Noted By Me This book reminded me how easy it is to write people off based on patterns - and how magical it can be to risk something new. It was the perfect reminder that sometimes, summer doesn’t have to be long to be life-changing. Coming next month: A classroom. A teacher. A secret. And one twist after another…

​ Hi, I’m Josie. Born and raised in the great Midwest (Iowa—where we measure distance in hours, not miles), I’m a proud wife of 26 years and mom to three amazing kids who keep me laughing, humble, and occasionally questioning my life choices in the best way possible. For years, I’ve been scribbling “notes” about all the things I love—recipes that make people linger at the table, travels that fill my soul (and my camera roll), and the little life moments that deserve to be celebrated… preferably with dessert. What started as a collection of those notes has grown into As Noted By Me—my happy place to share food, travel, and life, with a side of humor and a generous helping of real life.   So pull up a chair, loosen your waistband (trust me, you’ll need to), and join me on my hungry soul’s journey through food, travel, and life. I promise to keep it fun, a little messy, and never boring. ​ XOXO,  Josie Two and a half years ago, “As Noted By Me” started as a little corner of the internet where I could share whatever was on my mind—recipes I couldn’t stop making, quick travel escapes, and the occasional life ramble. Somehow, that little corner grew. It became a community—you—who have pulled up a chair, shared your own stories, tried my recipes, and sent me tips for places I just had to visit. If you’ve been here since the beginning (or even if you’re brand new), thank you. Hitting “publish” is always easier knowing you’re on the other side, reading, cooking, traveling, and nodding along with me. When I first started, I had so much fun writing under categories like Chef’s Kiss (all my food adventures), Living on Purpose (the lessons, the big feelings, and life reflections), Roots and Wings (family, home, and the things local), and 60 Hours in the City (quick city escapes and little bursts of travel joy). Those chapters were perfect for where I was then. But life changes, tastes shift, and this space has started to feel like a real reflection of what I love right now. So, what’s next? The blog has grown up a little, and I’ve refreshed things to make it easier (and more fun!) to find what you love most. You’ll now see five new categories: At My Table Away We Go Close to Home Life, As Noted and Recipe Box At My Table All things food - recipes, cocktails, entertaining, and seasonal favorites. Away We Go Travel stories, foodie adventures, weekend getaways, and must-try places to eat - because some of the best memories are made on the move. Close to Home My go-to local eats, hidden gems, and favorite spots that make home feel extra special Life, As Noted Everyday musings, books I'm loving, cozy moments, and reflections of this wonderfully messing thing called life. Recipe Box The full recipe collection and always growing! **COMING SOON Whether you’ve been here since post number one or just stumbled in today, thank you for being part of this space. You might be here for a recipe, a travel idea, or just a quick read with your morning coffee. Pull up a chair, stay awhile—there’s always something new at my table. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up on my blog to get an email notification for new blog posts.... because the little things are worth sharing. 🩷 The journey (and the snacks) continue... Josie

Happy National Prime Rib Day to all of my friends that love red meat! I thought it would be the perfect day to share some fun facts, tips for preparation and my method(s) for preparing a great prime rib. What do we know about the prime rib? Prime rib, as we know it and love it, is technically called a "standing rib roast" because of the way it is prepared. If you slice it (between the ribs) before preparing it, it then becomes "rib eye" steaks. It is thought that prime rib at Christmas first became popular during the Industrial Revolution. The standards in butchery improved to the point where more families in the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States could enjoy high-quality beef dinners. Prime rib has a layer of fat on top of it, referred to as the fat cap, which is left on during cooking to provide an amazing amount of flavor. LEAVE THE FAT CAP ON WHEN YOU ARE PREPARING AT HOME! TRUST ME...ALWAYS LEAVE THE FAT CAP ON! The first prime rib to have ever been made in Las Vegas (often thought of as the home of the prime rib) was in 1942. This was at the Last Frontier restaurant and went for only $1.50 . Prime rib was thought to have originated in the UK, but that is yet to be confirmed. Tips and tricks for preparing a prime rib at home Always season the prime rib well. If you think it's seasoned well enough, do more. I like to season the day before - but make sure it is at least an hour before roasting. Sit the prime rib out on the counter for a few hours to bring it to room temperature prior to roasting. This ensures an even roasting from the middle to the outside of the roast. You do not want to put a cold prime rib in a hot oven or you will need to adjust your roasting time. Invest in a pan with a roasting rack. I have tried it both with and without and it makes a world of difference. You can find all ranges of prices for these. I've linked a few at the bottom of this post. Invest in a meat thermometer and follow your recipe to the doneness you desire (taking into account the resting time). My family likes around 130 F - 140 F for medium rare. They have thermometers now that connect to your phone via bluetooth. Low and slow is the most common method for preparation. Everyone has an opinion and I will share two different methods below. Prime Rib - sear then roast (method one) Preheat oven to 500 (F) degrees Roast prime rib for: 5 minutes per pound for rare 6 minutes per pound for medium 7 minutes per pound for well DO NOT OPEN OVEN DOOR. TURN OFF THE OVEN AND LET ROAST SIT FOR TWO HOURS WITHOUT OPENING THE OVEN. After two hours, check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Let rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice and serve. Prime Rib - reverse sear (method two) Preheat oven to 200 (F) degrees Roast in the preheated oven until internal temperature reaches 115 degrees F for medium-rare, about 3 1/2 hours (this time frame is for a 10 lb bone-in roast) Remove from the oven and tent with aluminum foil Rest for 15-20 minutes Increase the oven temperature to 500 (F) degrees Once the oven is to temperature, uncover rested roast and return it to the oven. Bake until well-browned, 7 to 10 minutes. Slice and serve. If you are in the area, you need to check out a local favorite of ours :: The Prime Rib The Prime Rib 1205 South Grand Ave. Spencer, IA https://www.theprimeribspencer.com Mon - Sat 5:00PM - 10:00PM Sun Closed Links below are for the kitchen tools from this post Meat thermometer: Roasting pans:

Soup season is here and we're celebrating the 12 Saturdays in Autumn with a soup each Saturday. Come to my blog each Saturday in Autumn and I'll share a favorite soup recipe to help make your soup season extra warm and cozy.  As Noted By Me :: Soup's on Saturday Week Six: Autumn Squash Soup The warmth of butternut squash and pumpkin in this soup are the perfect combination of happiness. Serve this to your family at Thanksgiving and they'll forever be thankful for you.

Soup season is here and we're celebrating the 12 Saturdays in Autumn with a soup each Saturday. Come to my blog each Saturday in Autumn and I'll share a favorite soup recipe to help make your soup season extra warm and cozy.  As Noted By Me :: Soup's on Saturday Week Nine: Roasted Tomato & Basil Soup Tomato soup (on a cold night) is the ultimate comfort food. Roasting the tomatoes gives this soup a rich freshness you'll love. Just add your favorite grilled cheese sandwich and it's perfection.

West O Beer 503 Terrace Park Blvd Milford, IA Tasting Room: Monday: Closed Tuesday-Friday: 2-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday: 12-10 p.m. Serving Pizza: Tuesday-Friday: 4-8 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 12-2 p.m. & 4-8 p.m. Happy National Beer Day!!! The best way to celebrate this great day is to post one of my local favorites :: West O Beer Just a quick turn off from busy Highway #71 in Milford, Iowa, you'll find the best local brew and pizza around. Why West O, you ask? Matt and Michaela started a business plan for this hot spot microbrewery back in 2008. It has exploded in popularity and the building they call home was built in 2013. The taproom is full of locals and tourists, but the best part of the room is the welcoming family feel. For many who know and love Matt and Michaela, we can say THIS has ALWAYS been their vibe. They are incredibly friendly and welcoming and the staff is an extension of them. Every single time we are there it's like sharing a beer with an old friend. BEER-the star of the show! West O starts with the best water, spring-fed and naturally soft, right from our beautiful West Lake (duh, the name). They have many favorites on tap and I highly suggest you go taste for yourself. West O also does a fantastic job of throwing out new and seasonal brews. It is always fun to see what is coming and being launched. West O is the best at giving back, too. They understand philanthropy and it makes me proud to say I'm supporting local and they are too! Cheers to West O! West O Sausage Pizza Pizza - can we talk the pizza??? Get there! I'm obsessed. They serve pizza!! Made-from-scratch, Neapolitan-style pizza Tuesday-Friday 4-8pm Saturday & Sunday 12-2pm & 4-8pm West O Pepperoni Pizza I really love the pizza of the week - so give them a follow on socials so you can be in the loop, too. West O Pizza of the Week : West O BBQ At West O, they like to say- AWESOME WATER, AWESOME BEER I'd like to add- AWESOME PIZZA, AWESOME PEOPLE CHEERS TO MY LOCAL FAVE, WEST O BEER! LET'S EAT!

We just returned home from Phoenix and our sunny (a little rainy) spring break/golf trip. It had been 12 years since our last visit to Phoenix and we will definitely NOT wait that long again! WE LOVE THIS CITY!!! We stayed at two different resorts on our trip, mainly for the ease of where the boys played golf. As a nostalgic mom, dealing with the reality of an impending empty nest, I chose to stay at the same place we stayed in 2011. We primarily stay at Marriott properties, so I was a little nervous to venture out. Please enjoy my highlights of food, travel and fun from Phoenix and Scottsdale --- Spring Break 2023. The Arizona Grand Resort, Phoenix www.arizonagrandresort.com On the first of what has now become an annual spring break golf trip for my boys, back in 2011, we stayed at The Arizona Grand Resort & Spa . When I say not much has changed in these 12 years, I mean that in a good and maybe a little not so good way, too. The rooms provide a nice amount of space for a larger family while providing great views of the golf course or the Oasis Waterpark (their claim to fame). The only negative I can note is that the rooms are a little tired and in need of an update for the rate per night. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly, from the resort side to the restaurant side (AMAZING Lobby Grill) to the Pro Shop and golf staff. While staying here, we dined at the Lobby Grill , Aunt Chilada's and Rustler's Rooste. The Fairmont Princess Scottsdale www.fairmont.com/scottsdale Home to arguably the most popular golf tournament on the PGA Tour, The Phoenix Open / Waste Management Open, you'll find The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess . The Stadium Course is right out the back door of several rooms here. We decided to stay here the last night of our trip and upgraded to the "gold" area using points from a previous trip to a Fairmont hotel. BEST DECISION EVER! Unfortunately, and highly unlikely for Scottsdale, it POURED during our one night stay here. The boys were determined to not let it ruin their much awaited round on the Stadium Course and I was determined to see as much of the resort as I could, albeit while carrying an umbrella and dodging ankle deep puddles IN THE DESERT!! What are the chances? The rooms were some of the nicest we've enjoyed (for a large family, too) and in between the rain showers, I took my computer to the patio and worked (while the golfers napped). I took in the immaculate landscaping and was surrounded by gorgeous views. We enjoyed the lounge that the upgrade provided. As far as restaurants at the Fairmont Princess Scottsdale , I met the boys, as they came off the 18th green, at Toro for lunch. Wow, I will tell you more about that amazing meal/experience in my food portion of this post! Fairmont Princess Scottsdale ...we will be back, but just minus the rain next time. I am looking forward to coming back and spending a few days here (probably a girl's trip) to do all things "girlie" and experience the spa, shopping, restaurants and sun by the pool. Come along with me on my "foodie" field trip in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona. Thanks to our friend, Rachel, for some great tips! The Lobby Grill, Arizona Grand Resort This is a casual, sit down lobby restaurant that overlooks the golf course. It offers indoor or outdoor dining. Our lunch was every bit as good as we remembered! CACTUS COOLER MARGHERITA WOOD FIRED PIZZA ARUGULA & ANCIENT GRAIN SALAD WITH SALMON THE CLUB STK Steakhouse - Scottsdale We have been to the STK in Nashville and Las Vegas, so naturally we wanted to try the Scottsdale location. The food is always right on point and the vibe is consistently STK fun. The boys enjoyed their steaks and I went for a big salad topped with an awesome maple salmon. The oysters were my favorite! I highly suggest a visit, even if for drinks and an appetizer. You won't be disappointed. EAST & WEST COAST OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL CRISPY CALAMARI BABY GEM CAESAR WITH MAPLE RUBBED SALMON LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE FILET - KING CRAB OSCAR STYLE SURF & TURF CHEESECAKE JOJOs Coffeehouse JoJo's Coffeehouse is a breakfast, brunch and lunch hot spot in Old Town Scottsdale. The boys went golfing and I went brunching. I was lucky enough to sit at the bar and work for a few hours with my laptop and got to see many great menu items flying out of their kitchen. If you're in the area you need to get here! Come early or be prepared to wait if you have a group. It is worth the wait. JOJO MIMOSA FLIGHT JOJO COFFEE FLIGHT SCRAMBLE Rehab Burger Therap y We visited the Old Town Scottsdale Rehab Burger Therapy location (they have three in the metro area) for lunch after the boys' round of golf. It has an incredibly laid back, fun style and a bigger than big menu. Our group enjoyed what we ordered and would definitely go back next time we are in Scottsdale. The wait was quite short (less than 20 minutes) but there were lots of people waiting and that is always a great sign! NACHO TACO SALAD BACKYARD BBQ BURGER PBJ & BACON BURGER Greenwood Brewing A friend of a friend...that's usually the perfect way to find a gem. That is exactly what I found when I visited Greenwood Brewing in downtown Phoenix. Greenwood Brewing is a woman-owned brewing company where they believe in the power of the "purposeful pint". I was lucky enough to visit during March, where they were highlighting Herstory Pale Ale, to commemorate Women's History Month. In a philanthropic nod, $1 from each pint during the month of March was donated to the local "Girls on the Run" organization and BONUS, it was an incredibly lovely brew! I enjoyed my flight on the patio, too! Peep the picture, featuring the seasonal green brew. I cannot recommend this brewing company enough - my server was so welcoming and friendly. Sit on the patio and sip with your friends and celebrate women who know and love beer (like me)! Cheers! GREENWOOD BREWING - DOWNTOWN PHOENIX GREENWOOD BREWING - TASTING ROOM GREENWOOD BREWING - PATIO GREENWOOD BREWING'S HERSTORY PALE ALE Honoring Women's History Month GREENWOOD BREWING'S FLIGHT Featuring a little St. Patrick's Day fun Toro at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess I'm usually not at a loss for words. This dining experience has me there. I met the boys, straight from the putting green on hole 18 on the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale. My table had the perfect view for the possible winning putt to be made (but missed) - it was incredible! Sadly, it had rained on and off all morning during their round and I was feeling a little down about such a great day being "drowned out". This experience made my entire vacation. I cannot recommend enough to stop by and have lunch, dinner or even a drink with some friends. I will tell you to get a group and order dessert. I am so thankful our hungry tummy's trusted our awesome waitress when she told us we needed to order the La Bomba. Video and photos below to prove it! MANGO MOJITO CRISPY CALAMARI ANGRY TUNA SUSHI ROLL CRUNCHY SHRIMP SUSHI ROLL & HAVANA SUSHI ROLL CHIFA STYLE FRIED RICE CARNITAS TACOS and now, drumroll please... TORO'S "LA BOMBA" DESSERT chocolate half sphere - seasonal sorbet (ours was mango)- dulce de leche ice cream - pistachio ice cream - berries - crumble - vanilla and candy pistachios -- VOLUME UP -- AFTER THE TOSS - BEFORE THE FEAST - LA BOMBA THAT'S A WRAP ON LUNCH AT TORO In-N-Out Burger No trip to Phoenix is complete without a trip (or two) to In-N-Out Burger. We had one newbie and couldn't wait to take him!!! He was pretty impressed! CHEESEBURGERS & FRIES (REGULAR & ANIMAL STYLE) J.L. Patisserie This is the hottest French bakery in the Phoenix/Scottsdale metro with two locations and was recommended by a friend living in Phoenix. J.L. stands for the owner, Jenna Leurquin , and she's absolutely killing it in the French bakery world. Her website is incredible, too! I'm so happy I stopped by for a late morning coffee and an almond croissant. J.L. PATISSERIE ALMOND CROISSANT & COFFEE Thank you for an amazing (FOOD FILLED) spring break trip, Phoenix! We'll be back!

Come along with me on my girls' trip "foodie" adventure in Naples, Florida. Uncle Julio's - 2096 9th St. N., Naples Our first stop in Naples, fresh off the airplane, was for a margarita and guacamole from Uncle Julio's. I finally got to try my Texan friend's favorite "Swirl" that she's told me about for 20 years. I understand the hype. It is a combo of a classic margarita and sangria frozen and served in a swirl. AMAZING! Uncle Julio's is a chain and can be found in 11 states. It's a great menu and the "Made To Order" guacamole is worth the trip! Made To Order Guacamole "The" Swirl Grouper & Chips - 338 9th St. N., Naples The line starts to form before they open - you've been warned - get there early - and get there often! I have stopped for lunch every time we visit the Naples area and each time it is as incredibly busy and delicious as the last. Our table usually orders the 2 Piece Grouper Basket, but one of us got the 1/2 Shrimp & 1/2 Grouper Basket on the last visit and it was awesome, too! This place is legend status and you'll see why! 2 Piece Grouper Basket Grouper & Chips Menu Trattoria Mangia - 2045 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naple s Trattoria Mangia If you're looking for an authentic Italian resturant with the most welcoming staff, you need to go to Trattoria Mangia. We had an incredible bottle of wine, main courses from a HUGE menu (even the pickiest will find something) and the tiramisu is one of the best I've enjoyed! Trio dello Chef Espresso Gelato & Tiramisù bha! bha! Persian Bistro - 865 5th Ave S., Naples bha! bha! Persian Bistro Located on Naples' famed "Fifth Avenue" is bha! bha! Persian Bistro. Bold flavors, sweet and spicy fruit combos and incredible cocktails welcome you to the unique bistro. Start your night with the Classic Hummus appetizer - WOW!!! End your night with the Turkish Coffee! Sit outside on the patio - you'll be so happy you did. bha! bha! Classic Hummus Platter bha! bha! Pomegranate Lacquered Fresh Salmon bha! bha! Ginger Apricot Shrimp bha! bha! Barg Kabob The Rooster Food & Drink - 600 Goodlette Road North, Suite 101, Naple s The Rooster Food & Drink On our way to the beach we stopped for a big breakfast at The Rooster Food & Drink. The atmosphere is quaint, southern charm. Sit outside if you can and make sure to start with the biscuits - they're incredible and the jam is PERFECTION. We each ordered a different item for our entree and enjoyed the Fried Green Tomatoes as an appetizer. Don't sleep on The Rooster Food & Drink - it's a great place for breakfast or lunch. The Rooster Bloody Mary The Rooster's Famous Golden Brown Biscuits The Rooster Fried Green Tomatoes The Rooster Beet Salad The Rooster Famous Shrimp & Grits The Rooster Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Waffles The Rooster Bene The Rooster Almond Crunchy Grouper The Airport Beer - we all need one. :) Flight delay done right Thanks for coming along to Naples. Cheers!

Okay okay...it's technically NOT a city, but it is BIG enough to feel like you're in a city! The Mall of America (MOA) is full of fun, delicious and unique food options within the 129-acre shopping and entertainment destination. You can enjoy fine dining or grab a quick bite in the ever-improving food court. I also shared my favorite snack when I'm visiting the mall. Join me as I explore 60 hrs in the Mall of America :: The Food Tour Breakfast at the MOA Cedar & Stone Urban Table at JW Marriott Level 1 - Inside JW Marriott - North The first time we grabbed breakfast in the JW's restaurant we were hooked. Everything we've ordered has been incredible. This morning, we grabbed the Croque Madame Pizza, Cinnamon Swirl French Toast (it's got a quinoa crust for an extra fun texture) and the Salmon Benedict. I always love the cute little jams and honey, and the coffee is perfection. You won't find a better staff in the city. I always feel so well taken care of at Cedar & Stone. Bonne Maman Jam & Honey Freshly Brewed Coffee Croque Madame Pizza Cinnamon Swirl French Toast JW Eggs Benedict (Salmon) FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar at Radisson Blu Level 2 - Inside Radisson Blu - South A quiet place to escape the busy MOA and the food is always great. It's day two for breakfast and I grabbed some fresh fruit (my body was craving it) and a sandwich - rather than a big breakfast. I'm not a "big plate" breakfast girl and this combination was the perfect start to the big day ahead. The fresh squeezed orange juice is SO GOOD and like Cedar & Stone, the coffee is too! The dining room is so pretty with the morning sun shining in and the staff was friendly and welcoming. Dining Room at FireLake Freshly Brewed Coffee Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice Breakfast Sandwich with Fruit "The Perfect Bite" of my Breakfast Sandwich Dunkin Donuts Level 2 - East I enjoyed hotel coffee and lounge breakfast as I worked from my room in the morning, so I wanted to grab a little treat from Dunkin' for the road trip home. Decaf Iced Coffee with Vanilla & Cold Foam Lunch at the MOA Sweet Paris Level 1 - North / Northwest The newest addition to the MOA will quickly become a favorite for many. I found the Parisian aesthetic charming without being too "cute" and everything we ordered was great. We tried two savory (Chicken Florentine & Philly Cheesesteak) and two sweet (Cookie Butter & Apple Cinnamon Crème Brûlée) offerings from the menu. They were stuffed full, and we were pleased with our choices. The salad that accompanies the savory crêpes was a perfect addition. Chicken Florentine Crêpe Inside Chicken Florentine Crêpe Philly Cheesesteak Crêpe Inside Philly Cheesesteak Crêpe Cookie Butter Crêpe Inside Cookie Butter Crêpe Apple Cinnamon Crème Brûlée Crêpe Inside Apple Cinnamon Crème Brûlée Crêpe Piada Italian Street Food Level 3 - Culinary on North On level three you'll find several unique food court options. This is not your typical mall food court. As a foodie, I'm all for food courts if this is the future! It was hard to pick just one place to eat with so many fun and unique choices. I settled on a lighter lunch from Piada Italian Street Food. The Avocado Chopped Salad & Caesar Piada were fresh and full of flavor. The menu is awesome and you can't go wrong. Avocado Chopped Salad & Caesar Piada Avocado Chopped Salad Caesar Piada Nordstrom Grill Level 3 - Inside Nordstrom - North I've been escaping the mall crowds for years for this exact lunch from Nordstrom Grill. The Tomato Basil Soup alone is worth the stop, but I am obsessed with the Salmon Niçoise Salad. If I had to pick what I love most about it, I could not tell you. It's the combination of the dressing, salmon, eggs, olives, potatoes, and the veggies (don't forget the capers) that makes for the perfect bite. Nordstrom Grill's Tomato Basil Soup Nordstrom Grill's Salmon Niçoise Salad "The Perfect Bite" of my Salmon Niçoise Salad Dinner at the MOA Twin City Grill Level 1 - North A longtime favorite of my family is the Twin City Grill located on level one. If you are craving "fair quality" cheese curds, you need to come here and try them! They are second only to the ones you get at the state fair. We love the Calamari here, too. On this night, my son was with me, and he got the special for that night which was the chicken sandwich. It is not on the menu but was good. I love their St. Paul Chopped Salad (along with almost everyone in the place). It is huge so I always get the smaller offering so I can enjoy the appetizers and dessert. We shared the Vanilla Crème Brulée and it was the perfect way to end a great meal. State Fair Cheese Curds Crispy Fresh Calamari Chicken Sandwich St. Paul Chopped Salad Vanilla Crème Brulée Crave Level 3 - South Crave is one of my favorite "chain" restaurants mainly because the menu has something for everyone! If you can't find something here, you are way too picky! It was Monday Night Football, so I sat at the bar and enjoyed a burger, their awesome truffle fries and a cold one. The best way to watch a game! I always appreciate the warm towel for your hands they give you before your meal arrives - you feel extra spoiled. The warm hand towel is a great touch Wagyu Burger & Truffle Fries Cedar & Stone at JW Marriott Level 1 - Inside JW Marriott - North For my last meal of my last full day at the MOA, I went downstairs for dinner at Cedar & Stone. I enjoyed the Hidden Stream Farm Beets appetizer, the Revol Farm Salad, and the Shrimp & Grits (it's spicy...a good spicy) and finished the meal with another amazing cup of their coffee (decaf) and the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake. It's a treat to enjoy a meal here and I always look forward to trying something new. Hidden Stream Farm Beets Revol Farm Salad Shrimp & Grits "The Perfect Bite" of my Shrimp & Grits Vanilla Bean Cheesecake My favorite snack at the MOA FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar at Radisson Blu Level 2 - Inside Radisson Blu - South Just inside, at the bar, you can find a place for a snack and a cold one. I always get the Chips & Dips and an order of the Smoked Dry Rub Wings. The Fire & Ice Pickles are the best compliment. YUM! Chips & Dips Smoked Dry Rub Wings with Fire & Ice Pickles