Category: A D V E N T U R E

Candytopia – a Willy Wonka Play Ground

May 17, 2019 3:00 AM May 17, 2019

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Recently my bestie came into town for a girls weekend, while research fun things for us to do a place called Candytopia came across my feed. A magical candy wonderland –…

Recently my bestie came into town for a girls weekend, while research fun things for us to do a place called Candytopia came across my feed. A magical candy wonderland – think Willy Wonka meets Instagram. We had to go!

After scavenging the internet for information I came up empty handed so here it is – your complete guide to visiting Candytopia!

What To Take

Start to finish, I’ve got you covered. Everything you need to bring for a successful Candytopia visit!

Small Purse or Backpack – Each area of Candytopia features a free candy sample! Having a bag makes collecting these samples much easier. Keep in mind though that Candytopia is a maze of photo opportunities! So be sure to pick a bag that is photogenic so you don’t have to put it on the floor for every photo.
Immunity Roller Ball – There is no shortage of people walking though Candytopia with you – most of whom are children. Pack your immunity roller and use it before and after, at least.
Comfy Shoes – It’s not a lot of walking but there are some fun activities to do along the way. Wearing heels might hinder some of the fun.
Stress Away – With masses of children comes mass chaos. To combat social anxiety and tension keep your Stress Away handy.
Battery Back Up Phone Charger – As stated Candytopia is a maze of photo opportunities and you do not want to be out of battery before the marshmallow pit! (I LOVE this one!)
Inner Child – This massive candy playground is the best of Willy Wonka in an Instagram world. There are swings and confetti cannons and best of all a MARSHMELLOW pit! Remember to let loose and have fun! This oil will help you release your inhibitions and enjoy the experience!

What to Expect

From the moment you enter, the wild imagination that created Candytopia captures your eye. Every little detail is perfectly displayed.

Your tour guide starts by giving you the rundown, dos and don’ts, things to watch for and such. While he or she is talking you are free to walk around the room and examine the art. Be sure to do so – these pieces are amazing!

As a group, you will move from room to room. We chose to lag behind a bit so we would have more time in each room by ourselves. Once we separated from the crowd we had more freedom to run around and take silly pictures.

Each room has a theme, which was such a fun feature! With each theme there was also a candy sample, from Pixie Stix to Air Heads – they had it all! (There are more samples than you really want to eat all at once – thus the bag or at least functional pockets!).

The art museum room was one of my favorites, the details were amazing. Above you see a “painting” made entirely of jelly beans! 😳 From Frida Kahlo to the Mona Lisa the walls are lined with amazing recreations of beautiful art. Each handcrafted using various types of candy!

Throughout the maze, there are various activities to participate in. Be sure to give each a try. In addition to fun art and activities, there are green screen photo ops!

With these photo opportunities, you have to download the Candytopia app. After you create an account it will give you a QR code. At each photo station, they will scan your code before taking the photo.

Each of these photos will upload to the app where you can easily download them for private use (for FREE).

Just look at that amazing unicorn covered in white gummy bears!

Two rooms that stood out to me were the confetti room and the marshmallow pit! The confetti cannon photo op proved to be the perfect Instagram moment while falling into the marshmallow pit made for the perfect boomerang!

From start to finish Candytopia was such a fun experience, one that I highly recommend. Be sure to add a visit to your summer activity list your (inner) kids will LOVE it!

Location

Currently, there are only two locations nationwide one in Dallas, TX and the other in Atlanta, GA. It appears that one is coming to Houston, TX next!

If you are in the Dallas area you can find our Candytopia near Walnut Hill Lane and I-75.

Candytopia Dallas
8021 Walnut Hill Lane Suite 2000
Dallas, TX 75231

Ready to purchase tickets? Click here to select your time slot.

BONUS – If you have little ones in tow, be sure to pack your Thieves wipes! Soooo many sticky surfaces. 😆😝

Enjoy your visit, I hope you find this Candytopia Guide useful!

xo,

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A D V E N T U R E

PLACES I LOVE – Bird Bird Biscuit – Austin, Texas

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April 25, 2019 3:00 AM April 25, 2019

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During a quick trip to Austin, a few weeks back Aaron and I had the day to just roam. First on our list was breakfast. After some intense Yelp searching,…

During a quick trip to Austin, a few weeks back Aaron and I had the day to just roam. First on our list was breakfast. After some intense Yelp searching, Aaron found Bird Bird Biscuit, and I am forever grateful. 💗

The Menu

As we stood in line waiting to order we read the menu over and over trying to make the best decision. Anytime Aaron and I try a new restaurant it is always our goal to order different things so we can try more options. Everything on the menu looked soooo good from the cinnamon sugar Dough-Doughs to the basil pesto on the Lovely Day (I am a pesto fanatic!). We discussed options and looked around at others orders and when it came down to ordering we just had to have the Queen Beak. Two Queen Beaks (with extra honey on the side), one Biscuit and Jam and one Orange Juice was the final order – and I am so glad we did. There is no way I would have shared my sandwich! 😍

The Restaurant

The restaurant was small in square footage but bright and colorful in appearance. The walls were stark white and covered with painted confetti. The open-air kitchen allowed you to watch the biscuits coming out of the oven and the chicken going down in the frier. During our Sunday morning visit the line was 8-10 people long constantly and every chair was filled with brunchers enjoying their biscuit treats!

After ordering we moved out of the way and waited for our breakfast. In a matter of moments, our paper bags were ready! Everything perfect (including the extra honey!)

The restaurant offers a couple inside tables, a window bar seating and several outside tables. Perfect for a patio with friends and family. We opted to run up the street to a park area to enjoy our meal. The sun was the perfect addition to this morning – such a beautiful day!

The Queen Beak

SO. GOOD. (Look at it!!! 😍🤤👆🏻) From the amazingly moist and flaky biscuit to the perfectly crispy fried chicken, this sandwich had it all. Throw in the bacon-infused chipotle mayo AND the cayenne black pepper honey and I was floating above the clouds. So spicy, so sweet and so perfect.

I’d love to tell you I plan to try something new on my next visit (and there WILL be another visit), but that would be a lie. This is the sandwich I will compare every other chicken sandwich too for the rest of time – I’m looking at you Chick Fil’A. 😏

Next time you are in ATX, please do yourself the favor of experiencing Bird Bird Biscuit (I’ll meet you there! 🚙💨).

Until next week! Have a great afternoon!

xo,

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A D V E N T U R E

Places That I LOVE – Grand Mesa Lodge – Grand Mesa, Colorado

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February 28, 2019 3:00 AM February 28, 2019

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Growing up in Colorado we were constantly going for drives to the mountains, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. In 2011 my family and I moved to Texas and instantly…

Growing up in Colorado we were constantly going for drives to the mountains, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. In 2011 my family and I moved to Texas and instantly missed having the mountains in our back yard. Nowadays we work to get to the mountains at least once per year, the crisp air, blue sky and gorgeous terrain always renews our spirit. One of our favorite places to visit is Grand Mesa Lodge. Grand Mesa Lodge has the best accommodations, endless activities and has been beautifully remodeled!

Location

The Grand Mesa of Colorado is on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. The mesa (meaning an isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides) covers an area of about 500 square miles. The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world and boasts 312 natural lakes.

From Denver International Airport (DEN) it is about a 5-hour drive to the lodge. Looking for a shorter commute? You can also fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) where you will only be 1-hour from the lodge. Depending on the season roads can be messy so plan ahead, get a 4-wheel drive vehicle and take your time – it’s a beautiful drive!

Borrowed from ColoradoVacation.com

As you pull up to the lodge on 65 you can’t miss the iconic Grand Mesa Lodge sign! Be sure to pull in to the lodge – where you can get checked in, enjoy a hot beverage or a cold beer!

The Lodge

After the historic snow of 2016-2017 season Grand Mesa Lodge had to do some intensive roof repairs. While the lodge was under construction the owners Mike and Rose Wenner discovered extensive damage to the structure, this finding let them to a nearly complete renovation. The new and improved lodge is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends and family!

The view of the back of the lodge showcases the large picture windows and outdoor seating – these windows overlook the beautiful Island Lake below. The lodge sits at an elevation of 10,500 ft and is the highest year-round operational lodge.

Inside the lodge, you will find a fully stocked general store! Everything from deodorant and toothpaste to fishing poles and (the softest ever) sweat pants! I always seem to find something I can’t live without! 🛍 During our recent trip, our group (mostly from Texas and California 🤷🏻) were excited to find canned Oxygen (Boost Oxygen) in the store. Everyone enjoyed having this on hand during our active weekend on the mountain – the elevation is no joke!

In addition to the general store, the lodge features a cozy seating area around a wood burning stove! Such a great place to relax and warm up after playing in the snow!

Of all the improvements made to the lodge, this one might be my favorite! 🍻 During their renovation, they added a bar and large seating area. The bar serves everything from local beer on tap to cocktails and wine by the glass. In addition, they also offer delicious bar food such as, house-made pizza, HOT wings and chili! Each food item we had was served hot and better than the last! I highly recommend Mikes secret recipe HOT🔥 wings – they are perfect for the spicy food lover!

The night we arrived, the lodge featured live music by a local artist. Her music was easy to listen to and enjoyable. The perfect addition to this cozy atmosphere!

One cannot visit Grand Mesa Lodge without meeting Wylie! Wylie is the resident pup that loves to greet newcomers from his stoop. This friendly pup is sure to make an impression on every Mesa visitor!

“Many guests have become good friends and it’s like welcoming guests to our home when they stay here because we live here and want them to get the most out of their visit”, –Mike Wenner.

Photo borrowed from Grand Mesa Lodge’s Facebook Page

Accommodations

While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are 16 private cabins and 2 hotel rooms to choose from. Each cabin has an individual layout accommodating different quantities of people (check out the cabins here). We always stay in Cabin 12 which has two queen beds (in private bedrooms) and a futon couch. In addition to sleeping accommodations, each cabin has a full kitchen with a dining table. The kitchens are stocked with dishes, silverware and some select cookware – everything you need to make a hot breakfast or a can of soup!

❄The Grand Mesa averages 425 inches of snow per season, that is over 35 feet!!! ❄

Activities

While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun!

Winter –

Snowmobiling (Mike is the BEST tour guide!)
Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country Skiing)
Ice Fishing
Skiing/Snowboarding @ Powderhorn Ski Resort (a 20-minute drive down the road)

Summer/Fall –

Fishing
Boat Rentals
4-Wheeling
Golf @ Cedaredge Golf Club (a 30-minute drive down the road)
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Swimming
Fall Color Viewing
Hunting

Photo borrowed from Grand Mesa Lodge’s Facebook Page

Photo borrowed from the Wenner’s collection.

Weddings

If you are looking for a wedding spot look no further. Grand Mesa Lodge offers the most beautiful untouched canvas, perfect for tieing the knot surrounded by those you love.

With cabins for the whole party, a gorgeous overlook for the ceremony and the beautiful lodge for the reception Grand Mesa Lodge is your one-stop shop for a classic mountain wedding. Interested in more information? Click here.

If you are looking to take a step away, to unplug and enjoy nature as it’s intended
Grand Mesa Lodge is the place for you.
Mike and Rose will welcome you into their home like family.
It really is Colorado’s hidden gem.

If you have any questions leave them below, if you make the trip make sure to scratch Wiley’s ears for me! 🐶

xo,

Interested in more information on our Colorado travels? click here

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COFFEE TIME – The Wild Detectives

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January 24, 2019 3:00 AM January 24, 2019

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As a resident of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex my husband and I have worked to explore new parts of town regularly. In February of 2015 we discovered a part of town…

As a resident of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex my husband and I have worked to explore new parts of town regularly. In February of 2015 we discovered a part of town known as The Bishops Arts District. This small area of South Dallas is in the midst of huge change. Between the high-rise apartments being built and the historic business districts, you will find rows of craftsman homes. Each and every home gorgeous in its own right. Smack dab in the middle of West Eighth Street, you will find this little orange facade.

This little orange house not only features (in my opinion) the BEST coffee in Dallas but also, a bookstore for all ages, and a bar for the night owls. The wide variety of entertainment it has to offer makes The Wild Detectives such a fun and entertaining spot!

Their No WiFi Weekends is one of my favorite aspects of the coffee house.

I love the idea of just being present with those at your table and truly enjoying the moment unplugged.

Did I mention that The Wild Detectives has the BEST coffee in town? It really does. The Wild Detectives proudly brew coffee roasted locally by Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters. As a creature of habit (and one who loves what they love) I always go for the Americano. ☕ The hubster on the other hand almost always chooses something different.

No matter what he chooses, we always leave with a smile. The energy in this place is contagious.

In addition to their coffee, The Wild Detectives offers a great selection of breakfast items and savory toasts. Their menu features several selections from restaurants in the area.

As for the nightlife, The Wild Detectives offer a full bar including craft beer, craft cocktails and a suitable wine list. In their backyard area, they host fun events like concerts, poetry jams, plays, book readings and panel discussions. Check their events calendar to join the fun!

In addition to good vibes and great brews The Wild Detectives inventories a solid collection of literary works. One of their four initiatives is “100% Vetted Books”. This initiative states that the list of literary works featured in the bookstore is a carefully curated list created by book lovers of the Dallas community.

During your next visit be sure to peruse the Book of the Month and other featured books. While at The Wild Detectives you are sure to find something well written and worth the time to slow down and read it.

So why did the owners mix together the environment of a local coffee house, with the conversation of a bookstore and the energy of trendy bar?

“We want our space to encourage people to have a drink and talk to one another, to open up and share ideas, to hang out smartly, to engage in a conversation that will open new realities for them. That’s what talking culture does. It opens spaces that weren’t there before. Because culture accumulates into more culture.”

-The Wild Detectives, About

As a repeat customer, I truly believe that they achieved their goal. The Wild Detectives is such a fun and free-spirited place. Whether you are studying for school, out on a date or just in search of some human connection and a hot cup of joe you have found the spot.

If you are in Dallas, please take the time to stop by The Wild Detectives, you’ll be glad you did!

xo,

Carolyn

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A D V E N T U R E

Places I LOVE – Union Bear Brewing Co. – Plano, Texas

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November 1, 2018 3:00 AM November 1, 2018

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Earlier this year Plano, Texas got their first Brewery – Union Bear Brewing Co. opened up at The Boardwalk in Plano. This brewery and restaurant offers a wide range of…

Earlier this year Plano, Texas got their first Brewery – Union Bear Brewing Co. opened up at The Boardwalk in Plano. This brewery and restaurant offers a wide range of house and local beers as well as excellent “chef-driven” menu items. During a visit in late September, my family and I were very impressed – every detail was perfect.

As you enter you are greeted by the warm ambiance of wood plank floors, white subway tile and bronze accents. Everywhere you look there is a new beautiful detail. Their brewing facility is fully visible from the restaurant so you can watch them work their magic. The room was lively with brunch-goers of all walks of life. The indoor-outdoor space at The Boardwalk Plano provides the perfect environment for an enjoyable meal with friends or family!

In addition to a very inclusive beer list, Union Bear offers a full bar featuring craft cocktails and a great wine list.

Now my husband and I are always excited for a new brew, but I’d have to say we were even more excited about the menu. The food was… EXCELLENT! Every item on the menu was described so well, it was impossible to choose – forcing us to make decisions based on the food passing by to the neighboring tables!

Our table ordered the following items – all were unbelievably good!

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

frank’s red hot, shredded iceberg, dill pickles, chipotle mayo, la spiga brioche
Bagel & Lox

smoked salmon pastrami, chopped egg, caper, red onion, créme fraiche
The Honey Pig

spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil, chili flakes, local honey
The Honey Pig

spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil, chili flakes, local honey

Again, unbelievable! 🤤

If you find yourself in the Plano-Frisco area, please do yourself the favor of stopping by Union Bear Brewing Co. You’ll be glad you did!

5880 Highway 121 Ste 101
Plano, TX 75024
214-297-2337

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A D V E N T U R E

Places I LOVE – Fort George Brewery + Public House – Astoria, Oregon

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September 27, 2018 3:00 AM September 27, 2018

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During our visit to the Pacific Northwest this past summer a stop in Astoria, Oregon was at the top of our 16-year-old daughter’s list. She was determined to visit The…

During our visit to the Pacific Northwest this past summer a stop in Astoria, Oregon was at the top of our 16-year-old daughter’s list. She was determined to visit The Goonies house and see The Goonies exhibit at the Oregon Film Museum. So we set off north from Newport to Astoria. Along the way, we played in the sand, stopped for a million photo ops and worked up quite the appetite. 😉

As we were driving we were talking about what kind of food we wanted for lunch. Our visit in Newport was filled with delicious Clam Chowder (Read more on that here), sweet treats and even BBQ. One thing we hadn’t had was a really good burger. In addition to a good burger, we were all ready for some roughage 😋- time for a salad!

We drove into town and were quick to find a parking spot on the main drag (Commerical Street). There we set off for lunch – something with a great burger and salad.

As we headed up the hill we spotted the beautiful old building that hosts the Fort George Brewery + Public House. After a quick Yelp search, we knew we had found it – the perfect spot for lunch.

I started my meal off with their garden salad which is described as, “Local Kingfisher Farms organic greens, cherry tomatoes, shaved carrots, English cucumber, croutons with choice of dressing”. I mean like nummmmm, makes my mouth water just typing it! 😍

Adreena went after their Ceasar Salad, “Organic romaine, house-made Caesar dressing, parmesan, croutons, lemon wedge”. So fresh and crisp – she was obsessed!

For the main course, Adreena and I shared their Fort Burger, “1/3 LB. Painted Hills Oregon beef” served with a side of organic house cut fries and a pickle. This burger was flavorful and juicy – just what the doctor ordered!

Aaron opted for the Beer Cheese Burger, “Aged Tillamook cheddar sauce, frizzled onions, Applewood bacon” served with a side salad. He was highly satisfied with his choice.

We all left the table with full bellies and happy hearts. The Public House was beautifully designed with small touches of contemporary style mixed with the natural state of the building. It provided a cozy, comfortable environment that was very enjoyable.

Of course, we couldn’t visit a brewery without trying some of the local selection! 🍻 To go with our lunch I selected a cider and Aaron went for the Vortex IPA. Both were ice cold and delicious! I can’t wait to try more Fort George options, their beer list is a mile long!

Have you made it to Astoria or tried Fort George? I highly recommend it if you ever get the opportunity!

xo,

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