We Like Fried Food, Coffee, and Cocktails

On a recent weekend adventure I was seriously ecstatic to be able to try a few local places that included none other than food and drink...two of my favorite things!  On the way to St. Joseph, we made our way off the highway to a small place called Fords Drive-In.  We walked in and the folks there instantly knew we weren't from around those parts...but they didn't care. They found us entertaining and served up a big smile anyway.  Reason #48,295 why I love places like this.  The guy behind the counter, "You must be related."...why yes, yes we are.

We each ordered a burger and decided to split cheese sticks, mushrooms, and spicy cheese cubes and after polishing that off, ordered a large fry.  Our total bill, under $14.  Now, these servings are smaller, thank you for not super sizing anything...but fulfilling for us. I am not going to lie, I could have ordered a triple burger, but decided to take it easy.

Once arriving to our destination, we dropped off our bags...see previous blog post about Whiskey Mansion...and decided to head downtown.  We found the cutest little coffee house, Mokaska Coffee and each ordered something warm to "warm" up.  My sister had this whipped apple cider...and although my cappuccino was yummy, I wanted to steal hers!  Once we finished there, we headed to the Tiger's Den to up our game with cocktails.

This place had me instantly...it's a used book store/bar, let's call it a Book-Bar.  Prohibition-style drinks, walls of used books, comfy couches and friendly folks.  I am so glad we found this hidden gem.  They offer a variety of craft beers, many different wines, and great cocktails. I opted for the Paloma, a favorite of mine. Best part about it, no television. Bonus points in my book...see what I did there?

By the way, how could we not start out this roadtrip without a bathroom selfie? November is seriously my favorite time of year!

I can not imagine life that didn't include exploration.

Shona

Not Just Another Fly-Over State

Kansas...the state that connects East to West, North to South and if you ask me, should not be overlooked by the overlookers.  I have lived in this state my entire life, living in 7 different cities or towns and experiencing places some of you probably don't even know exist.  I grew up on a gravel road and my home was surrounded by cornfields, railroad tracks, fireflies, and nighttime silence. 

This post is for those who may want to venture out of the city to a small town where you may be labeled as the outsider or for those who may want to venture out of the country into the city where you become someone who "looks like you are from the country"...I have played both roles so I know all about that.  But guess what, no matter where I go the people are friendly, I can usually find a really good place to eat...necessity, and when I leave to go home, I have usually learned something new and have meet some really awesome people. 

Besides that, even though Kansas isn't surrounded by the ocean or the mountains, it is a beautiful place...I'll show you.

A little bit of country...because gravel roads lead to home.

 photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

 photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

harvested by my Dad

Lakes...because they are smooth like seas.

 Toronto Lake...photo courtesy of @heather.rolf 

 Clinton Lake

Perry Lake

Melvern Lake

Diners...because I mentioned I love to eat.

 Ladybird Diner, Lawrence KS...just overall amazing.

 Hookers N Reelers, Lake Perry...ask for extra bacon.

 The City Diner, River Market...great breakfast!

 The Pizza Parlor in LeRoy KS...homemade pies and pizza...need I say more?

Perry Bar and Grill, Perry KS...hamburger and fries please!

Trains...because they connect us.

photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

Flinthills and Wind Farms...because open highways and views for miles.

Last but not least, the city KCK-KCMO because we are one...with unexpected beauty.

For The Love Of Kansas

Shona

Pig and Finch and Brunch

First off, I must say...finally, I have met someone who likes patios, brunch, and bloody marys almost as much as myself.  Kansas City has some of the best brunch there is too offer in my opinion, which could be a little biased I suppose, but recently I enjoyed a lazy Sunday eating brunch on the patio at Pig and Finch; sunshine, good company...and oh, that bloody mary.  When your drink comes out with olives, limes, bacon, and garlic...how can you possibly go wrong?

Their menu offers the perfect variety of brunch items, but today I decided on Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with a Blueberry Compote and a side of smokehouse bacon and all of it was amazing. The Crabmeat Omelette with broiled tomato, hollandaise sauce and fontina cheese along with homefries and a wolfermans english muffin was very good; give it a try if you are craving something a bit more rich.

Check this place out the next time you are in the area...they also have a fabulous lunch and dinner menu too! 

Happy Friday! 

Shona

KC Fashion Week 2015

I can not get enough of KC Fashion Week! This was my second time attending and it is definitely going to be on my go-to list every single season! The amazing show is held at Union Station where it is transformed into the perfect runway for local designers and models, music and the fashion is to die for.  The looks for Spring 2016 were some of my favorites and because I love to support local businesses, I need to make more space in my closet soon!

Next Spring, VIP...although all of the seats are good, I am going for front row next season and I can hardly wait! It's already on my calendar, March 14th-20th, 2016!  I went with  Ashley, her first time at Fashion Week and of course ran into Jana, a friend and local Fashion Blogger.

Welcome to KC Fashion Week!

Heidi Herrman

Designs based on local KC building, from Union Station to the Kaufmann Center..amazing!

Janesko, one word...stunning!

Caftans, Resort Wear, and Beach Cover-ups

Jana, Myself, and Ashley before the show! 

KC Fashion gets better and better!
Find Janesko on IG @aliciajanesko
Find Herrman on IG @hherrman

Succotash, KC Eatery!!

Succotash, the name says it all! This local Kansas City Eatery is a must for those wanting to try some amazing food.  From the extensive choice of fresh pressed juices to their famous coffee, to the appetizers, salads, and eggs entrees, Succotash has been added to my list of favorites.  Located on the corner of 26th and Holmes, its easy to get too and there is plenty of parking across the street.  I visited there mid-morning with a friend and it was the first time for both of us.  It was busy, but we were seated right away, and it took us a while to figure out what we wanted...the drinks alone took some looking over!  We both opted for coffee and fresh pressed juice for starters.  I have to warn you, the menu is extensive, I wanted to try everything!!

The lima bean hummus is a must, enough for two or three to share.  Fresh and tasty!  I ordered a 3-egg omelet which was served with fresh fruit and my girlfriend opted for the salmon salad.  It was so much food, they actually questioned us when they were delivering it to our table!

The décor is a bit retro, old café style (the bar stools reminded me of my Gma's café that she owned long ago), with interesting artwork aligning the walls.  Colorful tables and a friendly staff made our experience very enjoyable and we will definitely return!  Oh ya, they are known for Succotash, something I suppose I should have tried...and they have a cake that has layers for days!  Next time!!!

Check them out on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to learn more!!