Along Comes MARY.

Our family recently took a road trip to Utah. We stayed in St. George and visited Zion National Park. With its red rocks, endless valleys, and sunshine, I discovered another reason to love St. George: gluten-free food. Having been gluten-free since 2008 (ish), it’s been great to see how evolved the diet has become. In most places I travel, I know I can eat without an issue. But it is still…

Great Big Family Play Day has been on my radar since its inaugural weekend 11 years ago. The annual event has been deemed the “Coachella for Kids.” I’ve never been to Coachella, so I’m excited to see how Great Big Family Play Day fares. We also love our Toniebox at home. How perfect is it that the weekend is presented by Tonies? We can’t wait to attend Great Big Family Play Day next weekend at…

Carlsbad isn’t kidding with their slogan that “It’s All Good.” The thriving city in northern San Diego County is brimming with activities for all. The best part? Carlsbad is filled with gluten-free options. I just returned from a fantastic visit to discover all things gluten-free in Carlsbad. Despite the success, there are still loads more gluten-free offerings throughout the coastal city. That…

Expo West is in the books for another year. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to attend the world’s largest natural product convention. Expo West is held annually in Anaheim, next door to Disneyland. There are speakers, workshops, and presentations. I feel that most would agree that one of the expo’s biggest draws is the three-day trade show. Five massive exhibit halls become the Comic Con for…

December has been a warm month for Los Angeles. In other years, I’ve been found wearing beanie hats and scarves. This one? More like shorts and even tank tops. We’ve been enjoying the season, but at times it’s felt a little lacking. Cruising neighborhoods for twinkling lights with the air conditioning on doesn’t scream “Christmas.” Thank goodness for Bob Baker’s Marionette Theater’s annual…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Solvang. Jule Fest officially kicks off on December 5th with their Tree Lighting Ceremony. The Jule Fest atmosphere is already in full force. We recently headed up the 101 for an impromptu night. Although we were in the middle of a huge rainstorm, I knew we would keep plenty busy. The wet ambience added to the European charm, and we even discovered…

I visited Carmel-by-the-Sea for the first time over a decade ago. Way back then, I was impressed at the ease of gluten-free dining. Fast forward to today, and we’ve visited as a family almost a dozen times since. Each trek, I’ve been lucky to discover more gluten-free gems throughout the quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea village. Whether I’m feeling fancy, laid-back, or take out, Carmel-by-the-Sea has a…

The Dodgers and anime. Two subjects that don’t necessarily go together but this Saturday, July 5th, both worlds will collide. It’s summertime which means the LA Dodgers are in full swing and each year there are always fun partnerships to pump up the attendees. Although I’m not a sports person at all, I never turn down the opportunity to go to a game. I’ve enjoyed baseball games from the Dodgers,…

Back in March, I couldn’t wait to attend Expo West. Often called the “Super Bowl” for natural food products, the massive week-long convention was once again happening in Anaheim. I had not attended since before the pandemic and was eager to return. Although I headed down an evening early in a rainstorm and made it to my motel, I ended up not making it. I’d been plagued with lingering sickness and…

What do I do when I realize preschool is off for a week? Hit the road, of course. I’d been wanting to get back to Solvang for a while. Throw in a week of gorgeous weather, and Mabel and I were able to head up the 101 for a one-night getaway to California’s Danish Capital of America. Having lived in Solvang for several years, I always have my favorites when I visit. I enjoy introducing Mabel to…

It’s no secret that I love classic TV. Although there are plenty of modern series I’ve enjoyed, nothing beats the oldies. So, when my connecting flight from Charlotte to Roanoke was canceled, I decided to make an alternate plan. I grabbed a rental car and headed towards the Blue Ridge Mountains with a very important pit stop. I went to Mayberry for one of the most unique small-town experiences…