The highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains is Clingmans Dome, a mountain that stands at 6,643 feet (2.025 meters). Its location is seven miles west of Newfound Gap in the city of Bryson City, North Carolina. In 1959, a 54-foot tall observation tower was opened with a spiral walkway leading up to a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On a clear day, you can see almost 100 miles into both Tennessee and North Carolina. Most days the visibility is [continue reading...]
The Clay Cooper Theater – Fun in Branson
I am not really sure what I was expecting when I went to the Clay Cooper Theater in Branson, Missouri. I had been to Branson once before my most recent trip and we only saw one show – and it was good, not really toe stomping foot tapping good, but entertaining. But toe stomping, foot tapping, and belly laugh aching is what I got watching Clay Cooper’s Country Express Show at the Clay Cooper Theater. Who is Clay Cooper? Clay Cooper has been a fixture on the Branson show circuit since the [continue reading...]
The Branson Scenic Railway: Day Tripping
First, let me say, this is not a review of the dinner train on the Branson Scenic Railway. I was aboard the regular excursion that is offered several times during the late morning and afternoon. Branson, Missouri is famous for its shows (like Andy Williams and the Welk family), outlet shopping, and having windy, hilly roads. The town is home to some pretty cool attractions like the Titanic Experience and the Branson Ferris Wheel. There’s a lot to see during the day and lots of shows to [continue reading...]
Exploring History in the Birmingham Civil Rights District
There is a six block area in downtown Birmingham, Alabama that is known as the Birmingham Civil Rights District. Much of the significant events that unfolded during Birmingham’s Civil Rights Movement happened within these six blocks and there is a lot to learn and explore over the course of an afternoon. First I visited the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute which opened in the heart of the district in 1993. A self guided tour takes you through short films, exhibits, and readings of the [continue reading...]
Two Ingredient Mashed Cauliflower
Now that I am in school full time, plus a full time travel job, I just don’t have time to cook these fancy meals anymore. If you have been reading Beauty and the Beets for a while now, you may have even noticed it’s been quite some time since I have posted a recipe. I am really starting to par down and make very simple recipes – dishes like beans and rice, and veggies with pasta have become staples in my house as of late. I always welcome a recipe that is super easy, and for me- the less [continue reading...]
Daytona Beach Spring Turkey Run
It’s back! Time for the 30th Annual Spring Daytona Turkey Run – a family tradition held in the infield of the world famous Daytona Beach International Speedway. The Turkey Run is the largest combined car show and swap meet in the United States. This years dates are Friday, March 22nd through Sunday, March 24th. Stroll among 5000 collector cars on display, or browse among the Car Corral with over 1500 cars ready for sale or trade. Already own a collector car? Walk through the Swap Meet [continue reading...]
A Day At Wekiva Island
It’s been very busy around here in Beetsland. I jumped back into school full time while trying to keep up with the blogging and making time for relaxation. We all need a day to unwind, right? I recently spent a day relaxing at Wekiva Island, a beautiful scenic spot just north of Orlando. I have many friends that frequent Wekiva Island on a regular basis, and I am embarrassed to say that I have never been. I have been missing all the fun. Wekiva Island is a peaceful oasis with 2,000 square feet [continue reading...]
Reunite with Panama City Beach
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Visit Panama City Beach. All opinions are 100% mine. I am here to tell you that Panama City Beach is open and ready for you to visit. Not even a devastating hurricane last October could close this beach town. The sand is as white as ever, the water as turquoise as it has ever been, and the attractions and restaurants are ready for business. How do you plan to visit Panama City Beach? Panama City Beach is one of my favorite destinations [continue reading...]
I am not normal.
I am not a fan of Maria Konda. There, I said it. Or rather, I am not a fan of her techniques. I don’t understand the need to hold an object and perceive how it makes me feel. I am sure she is a very nice person in real life, I just prefer to not have to say goodbye to my physical objects before I toss them. Obviously people are drinking the Kool Aid because she has sold millions of books worldwide. And before you judge me, let me also tell you I have never seen an entire episode of [continue reading...]
My 5 New Year’s Non Resolutions
Can you believe we are more than 2 weeks into 2019 already? Who’s still writing 2018 on everything? How many of you are still working on your New Year’s Resolutions? I am happy to say that I am. Although, I didn’t really make resolutions. I made lists. I joined a few programs. I wrote down ideas. I call them my Non Resolutions. If I start to wander I can just jump back in. They are more 5 goals and/or changes, my 5 NON Resolutions. 1. BETTER TIME MANAGEMENT I made a list of how I wanted [continue reading...]
