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Some cities just speak to you. Or sing via G & The New Orleans Swinging Gypsies. Some cities have hidden corners that only the real fans will find. You can skip Bourbon Street. Some cities make you crave a walk through a cemetery and an aquarium all in one day. Some cities know how to mix nature, architecture and color seamlessly. Some cities are worth using your camera in the rain. No other city is New Orleans.  
       
                 When I first envisioned our trip to Ireland, I dreamt of olive greens on rolling hills. I imagined deep blue shores along the drive. I had it right, the countryside is just as I hoped. Early morning drives and late afternoon lunches let us see so much beauty in many different lights. First up, the warm tones of olive green and gold that we often saw in mountains, farm land and around the happy farm animals. 
 Next we have the cool tones that surrounded us after a long rain, near the ocean waves and where the horses roam. The blues were almost black, so deep and opaque in the shallows. 
   Love Ireland and want more? Check out these IG feeds: @imenmcdonnell @liobrien @beluck.ie
As someone who spends a lot of time editing photos, I could never choose between warm or cool tones. They both have a special place in our travel memories.   Something happened in July that kept me from keeping up with my blogging and Summer Series. What happened? I took a break. I flew to Clearwater where my close family lives and took some time off from the hustle.  We ate lots of seafood, played in the gulf and saw my childhood best friend. We drank fruity cocktails, cannon-balled into the hotel pool and took afternoon naps. We watched sunsets, got caught in Florida storms and popped champagne for no good reason. We visited my Nana who is in her mid 90's and we visited the Pulse tragedy location/memorial.   I'm back in Asheville making changes and working on the August Summer Series. See you out there as we all enjoy the last couple months of summer!  So this is where are the mansions from heaven reside. When can I move in?  We weren't sure what else to do in this beautiful town of Beaufort, South Carolina so we drove to the coast. The Nature Center just before you drive out to Fripp Island has a discreet walking trail that leads to the most unique beach I've ever been to. Hunting Island. The beach is covered with downed trees, driftwood and nothing else.  We felt secluded unlike ever before. It was simply gorgeous. And we kind of thought a dinosaur may walk by us too. Jurassic Park style.  Next stop: Charleston, South Carolina.
Oh Savannah, Georgia. You cannot be beat.  Many times I have roamed your city squares and your famed cemeteries. It never grows old. The history lives within those trees.  Once you finally wander indoors, I have a few suggestions for you. The Paris Market is not to be missed for pastries, cappuccino and browsing the perfectly decorated store. The foodie options are endless so I'll just mention two favorites from this trip to add to your list: Alligator Soul and Zunzi's. Both are in the historic district and walkable.  Next stop: Beaufort, South Carolina.
Cheers to a happy Valentine's day! It may or may not be your favorite holiday, but I do wish many sweet treats upon you. And as with every holiday, may you spend it with someone you enjoy to the fullest. 
Orlando was my home base for about 6 years, including 4 years of college (UCF). O-town has a bad rep but it also has hidden gems that only the lucky discover.  A few neighborhoods/areas come to mind with fond memories: Winter Park, College Park, Thornton Park and Delaney Park. Lotsa parks. And lakes. Lakes, lakes, lakes. Watch out for alligators. No, seriously. Above is the backyard of Hillstone Restaurant, the dock is actually a dining option for parties. I have family living in neighboring College Park, many Thanksgiving memories there. Thornton Park is home to a favorite pesto pizza from Anthony's Pizza. And lastly, I spent a few fun years living in Delaney Park, just near Lake Davis (below). If you find yourself in O-town, be sure to stumble around these areas for a surprising side of central Florida. All have very walkable areas and delightful restaurants.   More Florida?
Next stop: Savannah, Georgia  The hubby was invited, for the 2nd time, to be a guest Chef at a wine auction event in West Palm Beach. He was excited to return and combine it with a road trip from Florida back up to North Carolina. Most of our stops were along the coast so it was fitting we kicked off the trip at the beach!  We met up with close friends for the weekend (they were also there for the wine auction dinner). The four of us enjoyed cooking, playing games and lots of laughter. Now that we are back in Asheville, I'm looking back at the photos. And remembering how much warmer it was as snow flurries and heavy winds pound my window here.    Next stop: Orlando for family time.
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