In my spare time, I write a craft and DIY (do-it-yourself) blog devoted to recreating unwanted items I find in thrift stores, garage sales and yes, even the garbage, into useable and sometimes beautiful household items. I come from a long line of do-it-yourselfers and while I`d like to believe that creativity is a family trait, I think it`s inherited frugalness that drives … [Read more...]
I got a call from my grandmother yesterday that I just have to tell you all about. If you`ve read this month`s `Kentucky A to Z,†you`ve already been introduced to my Grandma Charlene. I try not to reveal any details about my trips to my family and friends before the story appears in the magazine, so she was surprised when she received her April issue to find that I … [Read more...]
Have you ever kept a journal? I`ve always loved the idea of journaling, but I tend to be one of those people who start a journal only to forget about it, leaving the notebook half-empty. In some ways, `Kentucky A to Z†has been my first successful attempt at journaling. It wasn`t my intention to make the series so personal. In fact, it was supposed to be a travel … [Read more...]
As the promise of spring approaches, my mind is already busy plotting a few escapes to indulge in some fresh air, good conversation and maybe a little shopping. Here are a few of my favorite places to enjoy on a spring day. Destination: Bardstown Where to Eat: The Java Joint Café, located on North Third Street, has a great atmosphere. The quirky café … [Read more...]
Is there anything more enjoyable than driving with the windows down, the radio up and the wind whipping through your hair? I don`t think so either. Here are a few of my favorite `friends†to take along with me as I`m traveling the Commonwealth. Who would you recommend? Album: The soundtrack to Elizabethtown Why I Love It: While the 2005 film starring Orlando … [Read more...]
When you take a monthly road trip, you learn to pack like a pro. Here are a few of my favorite things to keep on hand while I travel the Commonwealth: First Aid Kit I've come home with blisters, bruises and even flea bites so a good first aid kit is a must-have! I love this one made by a local artist named Janet who sells her handmade wares here on Etsy. Sunglasses Call me … [Read more...]
I`ve come to refer to my road trip buddies as my `navigators.†These folks often make cameo appearances in my stories but truth be told, they are crucial to the success of the series. In the beginning, I asked friends and family members to give up a vacation day to tag along because it would make the trips a little safer but it didn`t take long for me to realize that … [Read more...]
Every road trip calls for good road food and I`ve had my fair share of tasty treats while traveling the Commonwealth. Here are a few of my favorite off-the-beaten path eateries that I`ve come across in my travels. Jones Restaurant 225 N. Main St. Burkesville If you`re ever in Burkesville, stop by Jones Restaurant for a plate of sweet potato fries. I`ve always loved this … [Read more...]
I have to admit something; I`m a research junkie. Maybe it`s the English major in me but I love combing bookshelves, searching through archived newspapers and digging for answers in the dust. When I first started the `A to Z†series, I struggled with my editor`s rule that I was forbidden from doing any research before my trip, especially when I came home from towns … [Read more...]
Since I started writing the "Kentucky A to Z" series a little over a year and a half ago, we've received hundreds of calls, emails and letters from folks who are curious about the logistics of my travels. So for your reading pleasure, I present to you a round-up of the five most common questions we receive. If you have other comments or questions, feel free to email me. I love … [Read more...]
