“Let’s take a trip to Highland County” Part 2

By K. Ross

Due to the overwhelming response to last week’s blog, I’ve decided to add a part 2!  I was afraid that that many might have missed out Highland County Maple Festival last weekend, but like this blog…it’s going on again this weekend too!  For those of you that made it last weekend, what did you think?  The weather could not have been more perfect for the festival.  Unfortunately, this weekend they are calling for rain.☹ But don’t let this stop you!  There are so many things to do inside that will keep you dry!  Most of the vendors are set up inside the school, so you’ll need your umbrella or rain jacket for a little bit, but only to walk to school grounds or to the other local shops that participate in the festival.

I do want to mention one location you will need your umbrella for…it’s a visit to Puffenbarger’s Sugar Orchard.  This is one of those sugar camps I told you about in last week’s blog.  This family has been in the “sugar” business for over a hundred years and once you taste their yummy syrup, you’ll understand why!  When you visit their sugar camp, you’ll the see the processing of sugar water by using a vacuum gathering system, reverse osmosis machine and an oil-fired evaporator. Very cool! While watching this process, they will share with how it starts to how it’s put in those cute maple syrup jugs. A little “sugar” history lesson!  After this demonstration, it’s time to dry off and visit the store.  Here is where you can purchase some of the delicious maple syrup you witnessed being made.

Now it’s time to head over to school to visit all those Maple Festival vendors!  And maybe give your socks a little time to dry!  There are so many wonderful vendors at this festival, but I’m giving a shout out to a Crozetian Local, Made by MoMo.  (In case you are asking, what is a Crozetian?  This is a Crozet, Virginia native.  You’ll see the signs for Crozet as your heading west to Highland County.  I love this town, maybe stop for a visit coming or going to the festival!). Back to Made by MoMo.  This vendor is not only known for her incredible Bloody Mary Mix, she also bakes and sews.  There are no words to describe this Bloody Mary Mix, just grab a bottle and enjoy!  I want to talk about her sewing. Her eco-friendly goodies will have you buying some for yourself and for your friends and family.  From cloth napkin sets and un-paper towel rolls to bowl koozies and aromatherapy sleep eye masks, she’s got something for everyone!  And if you can’t find it at the Maple Festival, shop online at momosmix.com.

I could go on and on with Highland County Maple Festivals favorites, but I try to keep these blogs limited to a page or two.  I don’t want to bore you, I just want you to grab your rain boots and umbrella and head over to Highland County this weekend.  Who knows, maybe the weather person could be wrong and the rain will hold off.  They definitely been wrong one or twice before!

If you want to learn more about this festival, just search Highland County Maple Festival, you find all everything you’ll need.  Safe travels through the mountains to “Virginia’s Sweet Spot.”

“Let’s take a trip to Highland County”

By K. Ross

Well, we survived the winter months!  Hello March…who’s ready for Spring?!  I’m hoping the winter weather is behind us and we can focus on getting out of the house and find something fun to do.  I don’t know about you, but as soon as the weather gets warmer, I start searching and planning outside events to do with my family.  This week I will save you the time and plan your weekend outing for you!

This weekend let’s head over to beautiful Highland County.  This weekend kicks off their 65^th Annual Maple Festival.  That’s right, you don’t to go to Vermont to get fresh, local maple syrup…instead it’s just a couple hours away from Richmond.  It may be little longer of a drive than you may want to do, but I assure you…IT’S WORTH THE DRIVE.  I am very fortunate that I have family that lives in this Maple Festival hosting town, but even if you don’t have family or friends in this town, you will leave feeling like you do!  The town of Monterey is absolutely stunning.  I encourage you that if you make the drive to the festival, drive around a little more, the mountain views are breathtaking!

After traveling a couple of hours through the mountains, you’ll find your way into downtown Monterey.  You can’t miss it!  You’ll find many local businesses to visit around town that partake in the festival.  I suggest your first stop be the main attraction held at Highland County school grounds. Here you’ll find everything “maple” to enjoy from pancakes to donuts to sugar camps.  Enjoy the walk around the grounds searching for favorite “maple” items while listening to live entertainment.  After filling up on pancakes and donuts, take another walk around the grounds, but this time focus on the arts and crafts.  They have over 100 arts and crafts vendors to choose from.  You’ll certainly find a little bit of Highland County to take home with you!

Now that you enjoyed the festival’s “on grounds” location, let’s take a ten-minute walk further into downtown Monterey.  Here you will find many local businesses from restaurants to markets to antiques that welcome all Maple Festival attendees.  Take your time and visit all the stops, and if you need help figuring out where to go and what to see, they hand out festival maps so you won’t miss out on anything!

Now, this might be a little last minute to plan your trip this weekend, but don’t worry this festival is soooo amazing that it lasts for not one weekend, but TWO!  Believe me, if you go the first weekend, you might find yourself heading back for the second weekend!  Please keep in mind that the weather is a little cooler once you head through the mountains, so bring your coat!  Spring comes a little later on that side of the mountain!

If you want to learn more about this festival, just search Highland County Maple Festival, you find all everything you’ll need.  Safe travels through the mountains to “Virginia’s Sweet Spot.”

Happy Spring everyone!

“Food Truck February” – not so food truck issue!

By K. Ross

Happy “it’s snowing again” February!  As I begin this week’s blog, there’s something very familiar happening.  Since I started this “Food Truck February” piece, it has been snowing every time I sit down to type.  No, I just do type to fill in time on a snowy day, I have routine I follow every week.  When I work, when I go to gym, and when it’s blog time.  But I will admit, I love sitting at my desk watching the snow fall.  There is something so peaceful about it!

With that said, I’m feeling my “Food Truck February” is pretty useless at this point.  These past couple of blogs were meant to encourage you to get out and support local food trucks during their slow time.  But with all this winter weather lately, who’s going out??? Not me!!  So, let’s discuss something fun that you can do at home while watching the snow fall.  

Good ole Hot Chocolate!  No, I’m not talking about those pre-made packs you buy at the grocery store.  I’m talking about the milk, the chocolate, and the spices you buy at the grocery store!   Let’s start with the milk, you know that’s the first thing you buy before the snow starts. So, I know you’ll always have that on hand!  But if you’re like me and have a bit of a lactose issue, I grab oat milk.  Next…the chocolate.  This is best part!  You can’t go wrong with chocolate syrup, but that’s not any fun.  Go the candy aisle and pick up some super yummy chocolate bars. Either grab the dark chocolate, the milk chocolate, or even the chocolate chili bar, it doesn’t matter…they’ll all work!  As your leaving the candy aisle, let’s venture over to the spice aisle.  Here is where I’ll pick up some cinnamon, a little nutmeg, and even a little cayenne pepper (this is for my “spicy” fans).  OH WAIT… you have to go back to the candy aisle; we forgot the marshmallows!

Now, it’s time to get creative!  Let’s start with bringing our milk to boil, then the rest is up to you.  Once that milk is boiling, add in a combination of those the delicious treats and spices you grabbed at the grocery store. But hold off on the marshmallows, those go on top of your hot cocoa creation.  And if you’re a coffee lover like me, before I add the marshmallows, I add a shot of espresso.  This helps get me through the snow clean up, aka shoveling.

So, grab your favorite mug and start creating.  Happy sipping!

“Food Truck February”

By K. Ross

How’s February treating you? Are you over winter yet?  With the snow this week, I am definitely counting down the days to spring.  I saw a post the other day that said “only 5 more Monday’s till Spring!” I can’t wait!  While we were waiting for spring, I have couple more that food trucks that will for sure warm you up.

This week I’ll start with River City Wood Fire Pizza. (Warmth is in its name!)  This truck has been around Richmond for quite some time.  I’m sure you have seen them around town, especially at all the local breweries.  What I love about this truck besides its pizza, is that they are soooo good and soooo popular that they opened their first store front about a year ago.  This is every food trucker’s dream! Now back to the food.  The “Little Italy,” this pizza is a classic margherita.  This pizza puts the “class” is classic.  From the sauce, to the tomatoes, to the cheese…simply perfection.  And take it from a full-blooded Italian, this pizza is super yummy…just close your eyes and you’ll think you’re in Italy!  My next “must try” is the “Angry Zinski.”  This is your not so traditional pepperoni pizza.  This pizza has all our favorites from the “Little Italy,” but with an enormous amount of char pepperoni, topped with their “El Machete.”  “El Machete” is their house-made hot honey.  If this pizza “joint” makes their own honey, you can’t deny how amazing they are!  (Who makes their own honey, right?!). But please keep in mind, it’s a bit spicy…just like them!

Next on the list is Waffles on Wheels RVA.  Can you guess what they serve?!  You guessed right…Waffles!  It’s time to satisfy those sweet cravings.  This truck shows that waffles are not just for breakfast.  My favorite is their “Roubaix Waffle.”  This waffle comes with marshmallow spread, graham cracker crumbles, and topped with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.  Are you grabbing your snow boots and running out the door? I am!  If this waffle doesn’t tickle your fancy…don’t worry, they have a “build your own” waffle. That’s right, you can add all of your favorite toppings to your waffle, or if you want to keep simple, you can get a waffle with some whipped cream. Either way, it’s yummy!  And if want a little extra warming up, they have hot cocoa and COFFEE…that’s right, COFFEE!  This truck brings the spirit of Belgium to Richmond, VA!

Like last week, I want to share again on how you can find these delicious trucks or if want to support other food trucks, check out streetfoodfinder.com.  This website shares all your local food truck locations and schedules.  Or if you’re looking to book a food truck for your next party or event, check out the Richmond Food Truck Association.  They offer everything you need to make your party a culinary sensation!  Eat warm…stay warm and support your local food truck!  Happy food trucking! And remember to drive safe!

“Food Truck February”

By K. Ross

Happy February everyone!  This month I will be sharing some of my favorite food trucks around the Richmond area.  I’m sure you’re thinking why are we talking about food trucks in February, it’s winter.  But now is the perfect the time to share some food truck love, they need our help more than ever during the winter months!  As a previous food truck owner, I can tell you how much we value our customers that come out in these colder months. 

The first truck I will like to share with you is CHEESAGGEDON.  I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for an awesome grilled cheese!  This truck takes a simple food staple to the next level.  The Caprese, the Cuban, the Rueben. WOW, my mouth is watering as I’m typing this!  These are just the most amazing grilled cheeses I have ever had.  Their ingredients are as fresh as they come. And one more thing to add, the price.  We all have been experiencing the rising food costs, but this truck is keeping their prices reasonable. Delicious and affordable, what more can you ask for?!

Now that I’ve shared a little savory with you, let’s move on to the sweet!  JiJi Frozen Custard, you’ll thank me as soon as you have your first taste.  This husband, wife duo has nailed the perfect recipe for frozen custard.  Their menu changes often so I won’t share exactly what special I had, but in all fairness it doesn’t matter.  Just the frozen custard alone without all the fancy toppings is nothing but AMAZING.  I know it’s winter and the last thing you’re thinking about is ice cream/custard, but a grab a warm jacket, put the heat on in your and enjoy the” best frozen custard” experience of your life! Oh, and don’t forget to bring you pup, they also serve pup cups!

Now that your stomach is growling and you’re on the hunt for one of these trucks here is how you can find them or if you’re looking to support other food trucks, check out streetfoodfinder.com.  This website shares all your local food truck locations and schedules.  Or if you’re looking to book a food truck for your next party or event, check out the Richmond Food Truck Association.  They offer everything you need to make your party a culinary sensation!

“New Year, New You” Part 4

By K. Ross

Let me just start by saying “CONGRATULATIONS,” we made it through January!  I hope everyone had an amazing start to 2025 and stuck to your resolutions and goals. How did you do? I had a few cheat days, but overall, it was a success!  I also hope that some you found my “New Year, New You” blogs helpful and maybe a little inspirational! As Part 4 concludes this health and wellness series, I would like to take this time to focus on “YOU.”  Even though January maybe be over, it doesn’t mean we need stop our focus on health and wellness.  Here are things to keep in mind as we navigate through February and the remainder of 2025!

I recently read an article that I think goes well with our “New Year, New You” series.  It was all about “self-care” and how the simplest of things can help with our everyday life.  I will share with you some of my favorites, not only because they are easy, but it shows how little things can help in BIG way!

Step 1:  Make Small Goals – setting a small, achievable goal can do wonders.  I don’t know about you, but when I made a “to-do” list and I scratch off each item…WOW.  This feeling is quite satisfying!  Start with a small list, then move up from there, but always keep in mind…make them achievable.

Step 2:  Get Outside! (Hint: you can add this to your “to-do” list!) I know this sounds crazy right now, given its winter and that we’ve been experiencing frigid temperatures lately.  The cold won’t last forever, so take 5 minutes or take 20 minutes…get outside.  Take a walk around the neighborhood, take your pet out, or just find a create way to be outside for a little bit.  Fresh air will give you a new perspective on the rest of the day!

Step 3: Start a Hobby. One of my resolutions this year was to start reading more, so why not make reading my “new” hobby.  To help me get more interested in reading, I joined a local book club.  Not only is this motivation to help me finish a book, but it gets me out of the house and it gets me to interact with people with similar interests. If you need help finding a club, just search book clubs in your area on Facebook. There is such a variety to choose from.  As I am crime/mystery lover, I found a club that focuses on that time of genre.  I’m so excited to see what our book choice is for February! 

Step 4:  Reduce Stress. We all wish for this! I know this one sounds “unachievable,” but I going to tell why I this is one of my favorites.  No matter what stage of life we are in, we all have one thing in common…STRESS. So, here is a little trick I found that I have added to my daily list. Drum roll please…BREATHING.  Just Google or YouTube “breathing Practices” and find one you like. Now, take 5 minutes a day and just “breath!”  Exhale that stress away!!

All of my favorites have one thing in common, they can be added to my “set small goals/to-do” list.  It’s goes without saying, but we all know that that when we set goals, we not only perform better, but we also feel better.  When setting our goals remember your ABCs, Achievable, Believable, and Committed. So, let’s make our “goal setting” an everyday habit and crush 2025!!

“New Year, New You” Part 3

By K. Ross

Welcome to part 3 of our “New Year, New You” journey.  Part 3 means that we are in our 3^rd week.  How’s is everyone holding up, are you still staying strong and committed to our resolutions?  With that said, this will be more a motivational blog this week. Let’s stay on track and finish the month strong!

In the past couple of weeks, we have discussed health and wellness, but let’s shift gears to “self-care.”  One of the most popular “self-care” resolutions out there today, and one that I, myself, have committed to… is DRY JANUARY.  This has definitely become one of the most popular resolutions to date.  The fad of “sober curious” has been introduced to us a lot lately. Whether it started with a family member or friend or if you’ve seen it on your favorite reality show. It has become a THING! 

To go along with this trend, we were introduced to MOCKTAILS. These are everyone…social media, restaurants, and even samples in your local grocery stores. I personally love this trend.  Even if you’re not doing DRY JANUARY, mocktails can be very enjoyable anytime! But for now, I will introduce some mocktails for motivation to help you get through the next week and complete DRY JANUARY.

I call this one the “Lemon-Basil Nojito.”  I started making this one a long time, but now I see it on most bar menus and usually mixed with vodka.  But not this one, it’s called “Nojito” for a reason!  Simply muddle some fresh basil in your lemonade of choice, then add a splash of club soda for a little fizz.  Super easy and super refreshing!

Have you heard of Mother Shrub in RVA? NO…you need to google it NOW!!  They are a local company that specialize in non-alcoholic mixers and elixirs.  If you visit their website and take a look at their recipes, you’ll get you through DRY JANUARY and beyond!! Once you visit their recipe page, you’re going to think why did this person recommend this site for DRY JANUARY, all of these recipes include alcohol. No, I’m not crazy…just omit the alcohol when mixing. Trust me, these drinks are just as good without the alcohol!

My favorite is the “Cherry Bomb.”  Some Mother Shrub black cherry and some orange seltzer…YUM!  I like to be a little fancy with this one and add a cute drink umbrella. And if you close your eyes and play some “beachy” tunes, not only will you forget about DRY JANUARY, you’ll forget winter all together!!

There are so many rewarding benefits for participating in DRY JANUARY.  So many that I will not bore you with them.  I just hope this blog keeps you going and pushes you to make it through one more week.  You got this!!

And if you’re one of many who didn’t make it through the month, no worries…we’ll start a new trend called DRY FEBRUARY! (Only 28 days in February!)

“New Year, New You” Part 2

By K. Ross

Happy 2025 “New Year, New You” part 2!  As I mentioned in last week’s blog, this months’ blog will be solely devoted to health and wellness.  We discussed getting fit and where or where not go, now I would shift our focus on to vitamins and which ones to add to your “daily routine.”

There are so many factors that prevent us from getting us a well-balanced meal every day and without these key nutrients, well let’s face it, it has a negative impact on our health.

Please let me share one warning before I list my “TOP 5” everyday vitamins.  Yes, it is true, you can consume too many vitamins and this can be dangerous.  So please, please read the labels before taking any vitamins.  Now that I gave my PSA, let’s move on to my “TOP 5!”

As I’m sure you have googled at one point, “which vitamins should I take every day?”  You get the same answer every time…A, B, C, D, and E. (are you singing the alphabet song in your head?!). While a couple of these are on my “TOP 5” list, I’m going to make a couple other suggestions.  My suggestions have no age discrimination, they can be taken anyone over the age of 16.  So, if you’re reading this blog and are 25 or if you are 90, these suggestions are for you!

Let’s start the “TOP 5”

1. Vitamin C – I know this one may be a given, but I can’t stress it enough. Germs, germs…they are everywhere help protect yourself and fight off these nasty germs.  This lovely vitamin has so many wonderful qualities…an antioxidant, supports your immune system and helps absorb and store iron.  So, if you’re like me and don’t eat enough fruit or if you do eats lots of fruit, this vitamin will help you stay health!

2. Vitamin D – Like Vitamin C, Vitamin D can also help and reduce your chances of getting sick, but that’s not why I take it! I take this vitamin because it helps with bone and muscle health. Like our immune system, our bones and muscles need lots of love too. If our immune system is healthy, we need our bones and muscles for all the fun activities we plan!  (I will suggest, Calcium, if you’re very bone and muscle focused.)

3. Collagen, collagen, collagen!! (Guys, you can keep reading, this is for you too!)  I call this the “wonder vitamin.”  Did you know collagen is a protein?  We all know how important it is to get as much protein in our diet and we can. Does this make you a collagen believer yet? Did I hear NO?  Well then, let me go on with all of the other amazing benefits collagen has to offer.  The main purpose of collagen is to help new cells grow, so aids in ealthier nails and hair, skin health, ease joint pain, weight management, gut health, and so on. But I think I’m pretty sure I sold you on collagen…the “wonder vitamin.”  And just for clarification, Collagen is not exactly considered a vitamin, but I won’t tell, if you don’t!

4. While this one may not be considered a vitamin too, but it does contain Vitamin B and C. Apple Cider Vinegar…whether in liquid or pill or gummy form, this can help you in so many ways.  Instead of getting into another rant about all the benefits apple cider vinegar do for your health, I’m just going to give the reason why I take it. Gut health. Let’s say it together… a healthy gut is a happy gut! An unhappy gut can wreak havoc in our everyday lives. You can take this in the morning/evening or take it before a big meal…just take it! You and your gut will thank me later!

5. And finally, Omega 3. Some people may call it fish oil, but whatever you decide to call, you’ll be happy your choice!  For now, I will refer to it as Omega 3. Omega 3s main function is basically to help your body function properly.  It helps with your heart, your brain, your overall mental health, and even your eye health!  Collagen may be my “wonder vitamin,” but Omega 3 is the “SUPER vitamin.” So go pick up some today or put in your online shopping cart!  Happy shopping!

I hope I didn’t bore with too many details, I just wanted to give a good overall approach to a few vitamins that can be added to your “every day” routine. And always remember to check with your doctor to make sure which vitamins are on you do/don’t take list. (Yes, that’s my second PSA announcement!)

“New Year, New You” Part 1

By K. Ross

Happy 2025 everyone! We made it to new year!  The past several weeks we have been focused on the holidays.  This means time with our family, holiday work gatherings, etc.  This also means a time that is revolved around food and drink.  I believe this is why resolutions start January 1^st.  We give ourselves time to indulge and not feel the guilt with all that was consumed during the holiday season.  Like me and sooooo many others, this is time we make that “New Year, New Me” resolution.  With that in mind, I will focus/devote January blogs to health and wellness. 

This blog will start with the most obvious/most common health and wellness resolution…getting back in shape.  We will focus on healthy eating in another blog, but for now let’s start with the “I want to get in shape/I’m joining the gym” part.  If you’re like me, you’ve noticed the lbs. just go away that easily any more. (yes, maybe a little tear just formed!)  That said, I have made this resolution for quite a few years.  So, I thought I would share my “local” gym experiences with you and maybe this will help you pick the right gym or know which gym to avoid.

The first gym I’ll share my thoughts about is Gold’s Gym.  I classify Gold’s as a “seasoned gym-goer” gym.  Or as I also say, it’s where all the beautiful gym people go! Please don’t let this opening statement discourage you.  This statement is what motivates me.  I try harder, I get out of my comfort zone, and I end up going more often than I normally would.   Now here comes the part that might discourage you.  They offer so many classes of all shapes and sizes, but they are always unavailable.  When you finally get into a class, you show up and you feel like you’re packed in like a sardine. Not fun!  

Now that I expressed my pros and cons on Gold’s, let me move onto Planet Fitness.  Planet Fitness is definitely a gym for the beginner.  It’s loaded with instruction and people around that are willing to help if you have a question. The major plus for this gym is their 30-minute work-out room.  This room contains all weight and cardio equipment you need to target every part of your body.  It’s a complete work-out in 30 minutes…you can’t beat that!  Now that I raved about this gym, you know I have to say something negative. Well, here it is, they don’t offer any classes. I like to mix it up sometimes and get out of my everyday routine and a take a class.  That is not an option at this gym!

I have now shared my past two gym experiences, let me tell you what I’m trying now.  There is this thing called Class Pass. It is basically a monthly membership for classes all around my area. From Yoga, to Pilates, to Barre, and all the way to cycle classes. It offers something for everyone.  I love this for two reasons. One, it offers variety. I am not one for having to take the same class over and over again. Two, they are currently offering a one-month free membership.  This gives you a chance to try it out, try new classes, and see if it’s a fit for you.  I love the “try before buy” option!   I will keep you posted on my review of Class Pass.

I certainly hope my opinion helped you to come to some sort of a decision.  Just remember one thing this year and this resolution…Progress over Perfection.  The real secret to success…just show up every day!  Whether it’s a gym, a class, or even just a walk around the block…just keep moving!  

Here’s to 2025 and a “New Year, New You!”