We had invited an assortment of neighbors and friends to join us for a potluck get-together at our home last Sunday — Easter Sunday — and they all arrived promptly at the appointed time.
The sky was grey, but it did not seem threatening at that moment.
Darkening gray clouds had not dampened spirits in the slightest as our group of 12 assembled. However, dinner was destined to be delayed as the existing tornado watch was upgraded to multiple tornado warnings for our area, including the Hot Springs, Arkansas, area and the Village we call home.
At that time, Hot Springs Village was not included in the “take cover” area. But that changed before long.
With celebratory glasses of champagne or wine in hand, and a buffet well-stocked with hors d’oeuvres, we resolved to delay serving dinner until the severe threat had passed. Conversation was lively, and the appetizers alone could have served as our meal. We kept a watch on outdoor conditions and listened to the continuing weather updates, while sampling Argentine empanadas, deviled eggs, salmon-topped cucumber slices, toast points topped with savory olive tapenade, and an assortment of pickles, olives, and peppers.
Great appetizers kept us company during the storm watch.Our friends and neighbors are creative chefs.
We all knew there was more food to come, but somehow the worsening weather spiked our appetites.
The screen was ablaze with red and yellow blobs of color in our viewing area. Place names seemed eerily close and familiar, but the sky was still light, the air was calm, and no rain was falling. However, the weather forecaster repeatedly recommended that area residents take shelter.
The warnings kept us all informed of the storm’s progression through our area.
The 12 adults gathered in my living room and screened porch looked questioningly at me and my husband as the wind picked up and raindrops began to fall. Together, we explained to our guests that getting to our “safe place,” a room we use strictly for storage, involved going outside and walking down an incline that becomes treacherous in the rain. It is definitely not a place of comfort. It has no television, and it has a large window.
We had no intention to gathering in our designated “safe room” with plates filled with game hens, wild rice, peas and carrots, and fresh-from-the-oven homemade rolls. Instead, we gathered loosely around the television, and continued to catch up on one another’s lives and activities since we had last been together.
The consensus was to remain where we were, closely watching the TV coverage, monitoring our phones for the latest information, and enjoying our holiday get-together. We agreed that, should a confirmed tornado veer in our direction, we would all gather in the single interior room in our home, the guest bathroom.
It’s adjacent to a concrete block fireplace wall and chimney, has no windows, is fortified by plumbing pipes and drain lines, and boasts at least two walls in every direction between the interior and the outdoors.
The settings, complete with bunnies and chicks, invited conversation.Our Easter tables were upscale, but also playful.
Once or twice, 12 cell phones served up a cacophony of high-pitched weather alerts along and the concerned faces of our local news station weather forecasters filled the television screen. Weather alerts continued to preempt the scheduled golf coverage on television.
As the minutes ticked by, we all remained comfortable, albeit watchful; some surveying the clouds and breathing in the fresh odor of falling rain. The assortment of appetizers continued to disappear, wine glasses were refilled, and interesting conversation flowed non-stop.
When the tornado threat was deemed to be beyond our geographic area, we drank another toast to friendship and fine food, moving to take our places at tables adorned with ceramic bunnies and white linen napkins, a casually elegant setting combined with a playful sense of humor.
We enjoyed our dinner, with a sense of camaraderie and thankfulness.
We could, at last, give thanks for the holiday celebration — and for the friendships — that are anything but ordinary. This year has already brought our state, and the entire nation, repeated weather events that have been far from ordinary. We will hope that as spring moves into summer, weather patterns calm and we can enjoy the beauty of the seasons to come.
Daylight lasts longer in the summer and weather is typically more predictable, even if it’s predictably hot. Close-to-home day trips or spur-of-the-moment, loosely-organized one or two-night excursions, are a welcome treat. Getting away, particularly to someplace new just seems easier, not to mention more fun. The goal, of course, is to choose a destination that promises captivating sights, provocative activities, stimulating people, and, of course, a local food adventure.
My husband and I found all that and more just a few hours from our home. Our destination — Alexandria, Louisiana — is a relatively small city in a state just to the south of Arkansas. We planned our route along a scenic highway. No interstates to navigate. Minimum traffic to contend with. As much as we enjoy road trips, we wanted this drive to be easy. The bonus? Close friends had recently relocated to Alexandria from our community in Arkansas. We missed them. After helping them pack boxes before their departure, we wanted to see them settling into their new home. We were curious.
Although we were happy to accept the offer of a guest room, we stipulated only hot coffee in the morning. We wanted to sample local eateries, and requested no homemade meals.
Finding Distinctive Local Food
Our first impression, as we drove into town, was positive, but our first decision involved food. We had skipped breakfast that morning, opting instead for take-along coffee and a relatively early start to our journey. When we arrived, we were ready to quell our growing hunger pangs, so the priority became food over friendship.
A quick online search yielded a convenient address and favorable customer reviews.
Spirits Food & Friends
The dining area was far from filled in the early afternoon, but our initial impressions of Alexandria were boosted immeasurably by the “look and feel” of this eatery. Other diners seemed to be having a good time. An amiable and informative waiter greeted us warmly and seated us promptly.
We chose not to order a complete meal, but instead selected appetizers to share from the extensive menu. An order of “Which Came First” Deviled Eggs, topped with fried chicken bites, bacon jam and sweet chili sauce, combined both breakfast and lunch in a unique way, and unusually good Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls with creamy avocado ranch dressing more than satisfied our hunger.
Our server kept our glasses of iced tea and lemonade full, and he answered all our questions about things to do and places to go in the city. We chatted about the history and growth of the “family-owned, Alexandria-grown” establishment.
We were captivated by our first taste of local food and hospitality and more than pleased with our choices. We also asked for suggestions about where to dine that evening, and were treated to a “mini-course” in local culture and history.
Our visit to Alexandria was off to a great start. We were beginning to understand the reasons our friends had chosen this city on the banks of the Red River as their new home. Cajun food and culture are certainly part of the appeal. But, as we discovered, there’s much more to savor about Alexandria.
The Cottage
Another day — another lunch. The Cottage proved to be another delightful surprise.
Renowned for its specialty cream of shrimp soup available in sizes from a “demi” cup to a large bowl, The Cottage features daily luncheon specials. Although the compact lunch-only spot looks somewhat like a ladies’ tea room, its clientele runs the gamut from suited businessmen to golfing foursomes to families with children. Personalized service is one key to its popularity, but the food lives up to the reputation it has built. Dishes are full of fresh flavor and served with flair.
Just one note of caution. A special of fresh fish with spinach salad and cottage potatoes had been listed online at a price substantially lower than the price that was charged. We noted the discrepancy with great surprise when the bill was presented. Although restaurant staff honored the lower (and incorrect) online price, it is probably always a good idea to confirm special prices before ordering.
Beer and wine are available, but the specialty almond iced tea was exceptional. We didn’t try any of the homemade dessert offerings, but I’m willing to bet they’re wonderful as well. Next time, I’ll have a hard time deciding between a Strawberry Crepe and the P-Nutty Oreo Pie.
Know that The Cottage is only open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Would we return? Absolutely!
Tunk’s Cypress Inn
It would be worth visiting Tunk’s Cypress Inn & Oyster Bar just to sit on the deck with a cool drink while gazing at the serene view. However, to miss the food would be almost criminal. The Oyster Bar, right at water level, even features a choice of Po-boys as a Thursday night special. We missed that, but what we had — shrimp-topped fried green tomatoes with basil pesto cream sauce, boiled shrimp, fried catfish, seafood gumbo, and hush puppies — more than compensated for any disappointment we felt about missing the Poboy Special.
In case you’re wondering, the alligator, dressed in Mardi Gras finery, oversees the dining room on a perch adjacent to a pine tree trimmed in traditional purple, green and gold. And “the good times roll” here, we’re sure, all year long.
Mardi Gras colors, along with beads and memorabilia, are not necessarily limited to Tunk’s. You’ll find reminders of the “good times” throughout Alexandria. It’s part of Louisiana’s mystique, along with Cajun and Creole food and music.
Rosie Jo’s
Rosie Jo’s looks like a roadside diner from the outside, and the interior has some of the ambience of an after work watering hole, or a late night honky-tonk. But don’t let that keep you from going. It’s hip, friendly, busy, and fun. And the food — everything we ordered — was well-prepared, hot, and delicious. Service was on point, as well. So, for the pure fun of it, as well as the quality, we heartily add our names to the list of local recommendations we received about Rosie Jo’s.
We visited Rosie Jo’s during crawfish season and and, even though we didn’t order a bucket to share, plenty of other diners did! As I looked around, I realized that not many crawfish go uneaten! If you go, you might want to time your visit so that you can have the experience!
We thoroughly enjoyed what we did order. I’m not sure I wouldn’t choose the hearty Shrimp and Grits again, but it’s a large order, suitable for sharing. Others in our group chose Fried Shrimp, complete with onion rings and coleslaw, and Pistolettes, fried pockets of dough stuffed with boudin and covered in shrimp etouffee.
Needless to say, samples all around were willingly shared.
Even though the city lies to the north of what is considered “Cajun Country,” there’s plenty of good Cajun food to be found. Over the course of the next two days, we sought recommendations from everyone we met and were rewarded with a list of options that would satisfy even the most discerning diners. There are fine, upscale restaurants as well. And we understand that food booths and food trucks are there for the festivals.
Our final morning came too soon. After leisurely coffee and conversation with our hosts, we made ready to leave. Previously, we had spied a neighborhood Coffee and Donut Shop. We couldn’t resist stopping. Served fresh and piping hot, three to the order, the large beignets drenched in powdered sugar reconfirmed that Louisiana residents definitely know how to enjoy the good things in life. One more reason to return.
On our return trip to Arkansas, we passed through the charming town of Ruston, not quite two hours north of Alexandria. Home to Louisiana Tech University, it seemed a good place to stop for a bite to eat — home was approximately another four hours away. Our friends had recommended Ponchatoulas, with a convenient downtown location. Another chance to sample “the flavor of Louisiana” was tempting, to say the least. We had been forewarned, however, that we might have to wait for a table, and that was the case.
Another quick online search yielded results: Dawg House Sports Grill. It has a tempting menu of burgers and was easy to find. Obviously popular with students and sports fans, there were also a fair number of families there to watch Sunday games. Although tempted by menu items like Boudin Egg Rolls, Fried Green Tomatoes, or a Shrimp Poboy, we settled on a Bulldawg Burger with Onion Strings, after our server’s assurance that it was large enough to share.
It was indeed! We felt confident we would not have to worry about dinner that evening.
“On the Road” Learning
Driving home, we reviewed everything we had packed into the all-too-brief road trip. Importantly, we had learned that there’s more than food to love about Alexandria, but that food is an important aspect of any good travel experience.
We knew our two-day time frame would allow little time to do more than scratch the surface of Alexandria. We had hoped to explore some of the city’s casual eateries, with the goal of finding, at minimum, interesting food options and Cajun flavors. A variety of Poboy choices and local brews would have satisfied us.
What we found was so much better. We hadn’t expected a food dilemma, but there simply are too many good options, it seems, for the time or appetites we had.
We left wanting to know more about this distinctive Louisiana city. There’s a plantation house that dates to pre-Louisiana purchase days, a grand century-old hotel that must have many stories to tell, a highly-rated zoo and art museum, an undergrad campus of Louisiana State University, and several popular annual celebrations, including Mardi Gras. Alexandria also boasts a fascinating military history. It was near here that thousands of soldiers trained prior to World War II and many different types of aircraft flew out of the former England Air Base that has been “recycled” as a regional international airport.
Alexandria seems like a “happening” place to be, any time of year. It’s now certain that we’ll return.
Strengthening the ties of friendship with former neighbors was important to us, and we vowed not to allow much time to pass before doing it again. Getting away for fresh experiences in unfamiliar places is good for the soul.
And sampling new foods definitely adds spice to life.
Roatan is a beautiful, small island, with clear water and friendly people. On previous cruise visits to the tiny island of Roatan off the coast of Honduras, my husband and I had seldom ventured far from the port and nearby beaches. We had occasionally talked about returning to the island to spend a week at a local hotel, but that idea had never matured. So, once again, we were on a Gulf of Mexico cruise that included this port call. This time, we were determined to venture beyond the “tourist trap” at the end of the pier. I use that term in the sense of a protected enclave that offers short-term visitors an opportunity to purchase local crafts and souvenirs.
I am sorry this has become the norm in so many cruise ports throughout the world. These shopping and entertainment enclaves offer visitors only a filtered view. They are filled with chain shops and eateries, even though they often feature local entertainment and crafts. They are pleasant enough to visit, but they are in no way the same as visiting the country. Sadly, my husband and I had fallen victim to a skewed vision of Roatan, based on previous short visits. But this trip changed all that. We considered spending the day at a local beach. Instead, I found and booked a private tour of the island through Get Your Guide and its local affiliate, Roatan Trips and Tours.
It was an eye-opening experience, against which I will be likely to judge future tours in other destinations. I may not return to Roatan, but I will hold memories of this experience dear, and I have unique photos of our visit as well as mind pictures etched deep in my consciousness.
That’s the joy of travel — stumbling into situations that alter one’s perceptive, right?
Our four-hour tour stretched beyond the stated time constraints, but we weren’t watching the clock. I found the time spent with Jorge, our personable local guide, invigorating, enriching, and rewarding, and he had promised to return us to the dock before our ship was scheduled to sail. He did just that. The tour more than fulfilled my expectations, and my husband and I left believing that we had made a new friend who would welcome us back to Roatan should we choose to return. It pinpoints what is missing from many shore tours — the personal connection.
Let me explain.
Exploring Local Culture
We docked early the morning of February 1 at Mahogany Bay, while the mist was still clinging to the folds in the forested slopes that extend down to the sea.
Used almost exclusively by Carnival Corporation, Mahogany Bay boasts an aerial tram that runs from the port to a nearby beach for a nominal fee. We disembarked in time to stroll leisurely through the port enclosure. Even though our ship, the Regal Princess, was the only one in port that day, the area already seemed alive with both locals and visitors.
The island’s larger dock is known as the Port at Town Center, situated further west along the coast, adjacent to Coxen Hole, Roatan’s major city. It is used by almost all other cruise lines and can accommodate three large ships at a time, one alongside the dock and two at anchor. The port area is currently being enlarged and improved; construction activity is expected to continue through 2024; perhaps longer. Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was alongside the dock at Town Center.
Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest vessel and the largest cruise ship currently sailing, was scheduled to make an inaugural call there on March 4. It officially entered service on January 27, 2024, with the ability to carry 7,600 passengers and more than 2,500 crew members. I found myself wondering if tiny Roatan could handle that many additional cruise passengers, particularly if other ships were also in port.
On the day we visited, it is probable that cruise visitors numbered upwards of 5,000.
We typically disembark and explore port cities on our own, walking or riding local buses. We sometimes hire a cab driver for an hour or two. Less often, we join a planned excursion. Before this trip, we had debated whether we would disembark at all in Roatan. I could have canceled our excursion at the eleventh hour, but we’re happy we chose to take the tour. We count the time we spent with our guide as one of the highlights of our cruise, and I readily admit that Roatan has much to offer beyond the port facilities.
When we disembarked, we walked to the far side of the port compound and then took a brief jitney ride to the designated meeting point outside the port area. The fee was minimal. Guides from multiple companies waited there to ferry passengers to local beaches or other island destinations. We visited with local tour operators and fellow cruise passengers as we awaited our driver/guide.
He arrived, apologetic that he had been delayed by traffic. The excursion had been billed as a “design your own” tour, offering options to visit local beaches, go snorkeling or sailboarding, shop if we wished to do so, spend some time at a chocolate factory or a monkey or sloth sanctuary, and several other possibilities. We told our guide, Jorge (or George), that we wanted him to show us his island, and asked only if there might be a restaurant with a water view where we could stop for a simple lunch.
Jorge agreed, and we set off.
Learning About “Jorge’s Island”
Like many islands, Roatan is a land of contrasts. The island has a rich history, some of it very different from the history of mainland Honduras. Once a British colony, 17th Century Roatan boasted a population of about 2,000 pirates with more than 500 houses in the northern city of Port Royal. That city is now in ruins, and the island’s resorts exist primarily at the other end of the skinny, curving island, congregated in West End and West Bay. The first language of native islanders is English, although in recent decades, increasing numbers of Spanish-speaking residents have made their homes on Roatan.
During the next several hours, we saw much of Roatan, including some areas where day visitors do not normally venture. Roatan is the largest of a group of seven islands located about 40 miles off the northern coast of Honduras. But it is a small island, measuring approximately 48 miles long and varying from one to five miles wide.
The Meso-American Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world, surrounds Roatan and is known for its biodiversity and extraordinary reef diving. Daily flights arrive from Miami, Houston, and Phoenix at the airport that lies between the two cruise ports. It is estimated that upwards of 1.6 million tourists visit Roatan annually.
We drove past tony all-inclusive resorts on this beautiful spit of land, many with private beaches and over-the-water bungalows, some hidden behind iron gates and lush greenery. There are no high-rises, but inland some new multi-story condos and rental apartments are under construction, some with incredible views.
We passed waterside restaurants and bars, and numerous piers boasting fishing, diving, or snorkeling expeditions. Roatan boasts some of the clearest water and best beaches in the Gulf, and it is renowned for its diving and snorkeling possibilities. We saw local homes, both large and small, in small communities and near the water.
We encountered roadside vendors selling fresh fruit and other wares, and we saw local shopping centers, and even a casino!
We turned off the main highway and followed dirt roads to shorelines devastated by recent storms. Some buildings and playgrounds have not been rebuilt since the last hurricane passed through. We drove through small local communities and slowed to allow groups of young children to move out of our path. They smiled, and we waved.
A Story of Growth and Development
There is evidence of growth and development everywhere, from road building and infrastructure to modern offices, warehouses, shopping areas, and condos. But much of the island is old, and many of its residents are poor. Many homes and buildings are in need of repair.
Jorge pointed out an impressive columned mansion that belonged to Roatan’s former Mayor Dale Jackson, an island native who amassed a fortune from his fishing business. He also showed us grocery stores and shopping centers, factories, homes and apartments, and tumbling-down old structures that seem beyond repair. He showed us schools and children at play, and we drove through neighborhoods and business districts where people invariably greeted us with smiles.
We drove past modern “mini-malls,” and stopped at a small shopping center to visit a chocolate factory. I was enthralled to see how cacao beans are processed. I followed the multi-step process from bean to chocolate bar, and watched as cocoa butter was processed in a blender. The scent alone made me want to taste the chocolate. We were offered samples and could not resist purchasing several different varieties of Honduran chocolate to take home.
Jorge told us about his family, about the realities of life on a small island, about the Honduran economy, taxes, government, medical care, education, and business. We asked how life on Roatan differs from life on the mainland. He smiled and explained that living on the island is good, despite the hardships. Life on the mainland, he said, is “not so good.” We asked about his past and his hopes for the future. Although medical care is available on the island, he noted, residents must travel to the mainland for a complete physical exam. He told us he had just been to the mainland for his annual physical, and he was happy to be home with a clean bill of health.
He gave us each a paper bill — Un Lempira — each worth about four U.S. cents, explaining that Honduras recently phased out its coins. Today all the currency is paper. I bought a keepsake magnet that shows some of the now retired coins.
We asked about local housing and food. Jorge pointed out some newer condos and vacation homes under construction. We wondered about the pricing. Suffice it to say that waterfront properties are expensive, as in any prime vacation market, and larger homes on waterfront property can range into the millions in U.S. dollars.
Jorge answered all our questions, and we gained a better understanding of the Honduran economy, local issues, and island culture than we could have learned from a guidebook or a printed brochure. We tried to answer his questions about our life in the United States as honestly as he had shared information about his homeland.
Feasting on Island Specialties
Then, Jorge steered us to a beachside cabana with a rustic bar and a few picnic tables. We sat looking out at the gentle waves and watched children and adults play in the surf while we sipped cooling drinks and asked more questions about life in Roatan. Jorge talked about his family, his wife, and his sons who work in the construction field.
It was a peaceful interlude. I had not realized that there is so much for tourists to see and do on the island. I was more than pleased that we had this relaxing time to share with Jorge.
I asked about restaurants and his food favorites, and a few minutes later, he stopped his car outside a bustling food bazaar. Jorge left us for a few moments, quickly returning with what he called the “Honduran cheeseburger.” It’s delicious! A soft warm tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. The humble baleada may also be filled with additional ingredients — scrambled eggs, grilled meat, onions, or avocado, upon request — to make this simple street food a hearty breakfast or a tasty lunch treat.
The next time you visit a foreign destination, take the time to interact with local people. All-inclusive resorts, luxury hotels, fine dining, and secluded beaches certainly have their place, but it’s frequently the unexpected encounters with ordinary residents that leave the most indelible impressions on the heart and mind. That’s the gift that Jorge gave us on this tour.
Now, About Lunch
Jorge had not forgotten our earlier request for a simple lunch. After confirming that we had little interest in cuddling a sloth or interacting with parrots, he steered us toward French Harbor, a well-known and popular part of the island. He promised us a view, and a meal, that we would remember. After only a little coaxing, he agreed to join us.
Gio’s is a popular and well-known Roatan establishment that has operated in the same location since 1994. Tourists and islanders alike tout it for the friendly service, the food, the panoramic views, and the laid-back atmosphere. The specialty of the house is Spiny Caribbean King Crab, so that’s what my husband ordered. I ordered what I thought would be a sampler plate of fried plantains and other appetizers. We planned to share. Jorge chose beef and vegetables (perhaps, because he lives on the island, he has his fill of seafood and fish?) In any case, we all were happy!
The meal served as a memorable conclusion to our day on the island. With full bellies and more-than-satisfying memories of time spent on an island we now know and understand a little better, we were saddened at the thought of saying goodbye to a new friend. He dropped us back at Mahogany Bay. We could not say goodbye, however, without snapping a few pictures and exchanging heartfelt hugs.
We carry the memory of a few hours spent in Roatan with Jorge as one of the true pleasures to be found through travel.
Stoby’s, known as the home of a much-loved cheese dip known well by residents of Russellville, Arkansas, was the destination for a caravan of approximately 15 convertibles on Thursday, April 11.
The lovingly polished convertibles, all with tops down, arrived for lunch in Russellville after a scenic drive along “steep and curvy” Arkansas scenic byways. At times, workers, residents, and forestry crews along the route stopped what they were doing to wave as the caravan passed, and vehicles traveling on intersecting roadways usually did the same. It was the first “Escape the Gate” excursion of 2024 for a loosely organized group of convertible owners from Hot Springs Village, a planned community approximately 50 miles south of Russellville.
Many of the convertibles gathered at the designated meeting place outside the Village’s West gate at 10 a.m. with their tops up, drivers and passengers wearing fleece hoodies or quilted vests over sweaters and sweatshirts. Even though the day had dawned clear with a bright sun shining, the temperature was still a breezy 49 degrees as the time neared for departure. But depart we did, most of the vehicles with tops down, windows rolled up, and heat on. However, spirits were high, spring was in the air, and the fun of an hour-long drive through rural Arkansas was on the agenda.
No Age Limit on Good Times
This is a purely social group, with no regularly-scheduled meetings, no dues, and no participation requirements. There is little planning involved in scheduling an outing away from our gated community, and there are no regularly scheduled events. It is more a “looks like Thursday might be a good day for a road trip” kind of effort — the word for this excursion was spread by telephone with only four days’ notice. Excursions over the past couple of years typically include lunch at a destination not more than a couple of hours from the Village. After lunch, participants may continue to explore a new area or find their own way home via a route and on a timetable that is theirs alone.
Lunch is “Dutch treat,” and sometimes it’s as simple and old-fashioned as a picnic in a park.
Highways in the area are typically two-lane paved roads with little traffic. The routes are invariably scenic, sometimes winding through national forest land, skirting nearby streams and rivers, passing former CCC-improved picnic areas and campgrounds, or with views of local dams, locks, and spillways. Last year, the convertible club made two well-attended trips to nearby state parks. Once, the group made a scheduled stop at the Rockefeller Museum of Automobiles on the way, before proceeding on to Petit Jean State Park for lunch in a rustic lodge with a view of the surrounding valley beyond. Another time, the destination was a distinctive diner with the unlikely name of Toad Suck Buck’s, situated along the shore of the Arkansas River. The eatery is renowned for its steaks, and the owner, Ted Buck, had agreed to open his establishment to specially accommodate our group!
Let’s be clear, this is not a road rally or a race. Drivers are not off-road enthusiasts or backwoods explorers. Most are middle-aged or older gentlemen and their partners who simply like to put the tops down on their well-kept BMWs, Mustangs, Corvettes, or beloved motorized “toys” that run the gamut from aging Chevys and Toyotas to classic European sports cars.
And, yes, there are female owners and drivers in the group. With tops down and hair flying, women are perfectly able to put the pedal to the metal with skill and purpose.
It’s all for fun — did I already say that?
The most common comment when the group arrives at each destination is “What fun! We ought to do this more often.”
Now, About Stoby’s
The history of this eatery reads somewhat like fiction. But it’s all true!
This time, the attraction was a diner that started out in a single rail car. It has now grown to encompass a new “train station-sized” compound with several dining rooms the size of the original rail car. Stoby’s story is unique, and the hometown sensation celebrates its 40th anniversary in business this year! David Stobaugh (nickname Stoby) has a history, to be sure!
Retro decor and old photographs lend period charm to the eatery, and patrons are invited to sound a train whistle as they arrive at the diner. The food is worth the drive, both for quality and price! And the story is worth repeating!
Stoby’s is known for its Cheese Dip. It was sold at Walmart between 1992 and 2012. The diner is acclaimed for its sandwiches, made with a choice of breads, an option to choose two or three meats, and to select two cheeses from six options, all served with lettuce and tomato, and Stoby’s special sauce.
The menu also offers extensive additional food options, and all portions are more than amply-sized. There are salads and soups, burgers and fries, quesadillas, chicken tenders, a variety of pastas, and a month’s worth selection of cold and grilled sandwiches. To-go boxes are readily provided along with each order, and most diners happily take leftovers home for another meal from this legendary diner. We certainly did!
Stoby’s serves lunch from 11 – 9, but opens for breakfast at 6 a.m. daily
The appeal of Stoby’s goes beyond its good food, its prompt and friendly service, and its “small town boy made good” success story, however. Did we mention the desserts?
Although we had no room for pie or cake after our meal, we noted that others skipped the sandwiches and went straight for the sweets. Maybe next time. The display case certainly makes desserts look tempting.
There’s just something wonderful about autumn, isn’t there? Cooler temperatures, back-to-school events, football, falling leaves, pumpkins, gourds, and savory spices all signal a distinctly different approach to life and leisure activities.
But fall has sped by for me this year, interspersed with travel and the demands of daily life. Suddenly, it’s Thanksgiving week and I’m not at all prepared.
But this year, instead of giving in to guilt, I am letting Thanksgiving week play out in an entirely different way. My husband and I are looking forward to the activities we enjoy rather than dreading the dawn of Thursday and lamenting what was left undone for a big family dinner.
You see, we will forgo the “feast” this year in favor of largely unplanned, spontaneous activities that are scattered throughout the week and into the weekend.
On Thanksgiving Day, we will be with friends who, like us, have no nearby family, and even less reason to want or need turkey with all the traditional sides. There will be no roast turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy, no green bean casserole, no sweet potatoes with marshmallows, and no jellied cranberry sauce. And, best of all, no last-minute worries before the guests arrive!
Instead, we have opted for an “orphan potluck” this year. We anticipate a casual, laid-back vibe, with good conversation interspersed with holiday spirit and cheers for our favorite teams.
We fully intend to celebrate, and you can be assured we are thankful for the blessings of home and friends this year. We will check in with our far-flung families and wish them well. And then we will celebrate the bounty of our table and the bonds of friendship with others in this small community we now call home. What could be more appropriate?
The dozen or so like-minded friends who will join us have all volunteered to bring a variety of favorite dishes. We’ll have appetizers and wine, perhaps a creative charcuterie board with delectable finger foods. And we’re not totally abandoning tradition – we have a smoked turkey breast ready to reheat!
This year, I am thankful for the freedom to read a book, listen to music, watch the Macy’s parade, or maybe even a Hallmark movie on television — all before our friends arrive in the early afternoon!
Times change, as do the seasons. I am eager to see what this new-fangled Thanksgiving celebration feels like. Perhaps it will become our new annual tradition.
A neighbor promised a hearty pasta dish, and others are likely to surprise us with their favorites. There will be home-baked bread and (again from a neighbor, with a nod to tradition!) pumpkin pie to top it all off. As always, at Thanksgiving, it’s not all about the food, but we’re certain there will be plenty of food!
I love many things about Thanksgiving, especially the presence of family and friends. And pumpkin! So, I am searching for pumpkin recipes with a new twist and updating my holiday favorites. Pumpkin, after all, need not be reserved solely for Thanksgiving. Why not enjoy pumpkin treats until it’s time to embrace hot chocolate and peppermint?
During an October trip to the San Francisco Peninsula, I was impressed by, among other things, the expanse of colorful pumpkin fields that stretched almost to the Pacific shore. Our group stopped at Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch near Half Moon Bay – who knew so many kinds of pumpkin existed? The vibrant displays were eye-catching and tempting when most visitors were searching for the perfect jack-o-lantern pumpkin! I wish I could have brought several home to Arkansas!
Just last week, on a trip to Maine, I found that pumpkin recipes were the talk of the town, so to speak! And there were more pumpkin displays in local yards and grocery stores. That started me thinking, not only about Thanksgiving, but about the extended holiday season as well, about hot cider, roasted vegetables, sweet potatoes, chocolate, and creative soups that chase away winter’s chill.
This year, I’m trying to simplify my life while at the same time wanting to expand my food repertoire. I have been collecting new recipes since I returned from California. I have more from relatives in Maine, and a supermarket magazine provided even more.
Consider this a challenge to get creative this year, especially during the festive season that extends from Thanksgiving through the dawn of the new year. So many other flavors combine well with pumpkin that you can experiment to your heart’s content! Don’t limit its use to pie, cookies, or breads.
Incorporate unique and exotic spices. Ginger is one of the best, along with cloves, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, saffron, and paprika. They not only add wonderful flavor, but many of them offer health benefits as well. Not only the flavors but the colors will add punch to your recipes.
What else goes well with pumpkin? How about maple syrup, caramel, chocolate, apples, apricots, raisins, cranberries, and cheeses? The best part? As good as fresh pumpkin is you can cook with canned pumpkin throughout the year. I have already stocked up on that!
Here are just a few recipes to get you in the spirit. Let me know how you like them!
Family Favorite Pumpkin Bread
This truly is a family recipe that has been a favorite for generations, and I can attest to its goodness! Why not keep some in the freezer to bring out when unexpected guests arrive? It also can double as dessert, with a dollop of whipped cream.
42 2/3 cups sugar
2/3 cup cooking oil
4 eggs
1 ½ cups cooked pumpkin (or Libby’s brand canned pure pumpkin)
3 1/3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chopped nuts
2/3 cup water
Mix sugar, oil, and pumpkin; then add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, soda, and cinnamon. Combine pumpkin mixture with flour mixture. Add water and mix well. Then, add nuts and stir again. Pour into well-greased one-pound coffee cans, filling halfway. This amount of batter will fill four cans. Bake in a 300-degree oven for one hour. Allow bread to cool, then remove from cans. If you prefer, use medium loaf pans.
The bread freezes well: simply slip the cooled loaves back into the coffee cans and cover each with its plastic lid. T freeze pumpkin loaves, remove them from the baking pans when cool, cover them with plastic wrap, and then wrap in foil before freezing.
Game Day Chili
If you like chili, I can almost guarantee you’ll love this one. It has all the traditional ingredients, with the surprise of a few extra veggies and a can of pure pumpkin. The bonus? It can be ready in a jiffy. Put it together quickly, then settle in to cheer your favorite team to victory. (Courtesy of Hannaford, a grocery chain committed to sustainability and the public good.)
Ingredients:
1 Tbsp. canola oil
1 finely chopped medium yellow onion
1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
½ tsp. ground cinnamon
1 (6 -oz) can of tomato paste
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 (15-oz) cans of no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 (15-ox) can pure pumpkin
1 ½ cups water, divided
2 (15-oz) cans no-salt-added kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Heat oil in a large, sturdy pot on medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper, and saute 8 to 10 minutes, until browned and tender.
Add beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until browned, using a wooden spoon to break into pieces.
Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon, and cook for 30 seconds. Add tomato paste and stir constantly for 1 minute, until the color darkens. Add broth, tomatoes, pumpkin, and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until thickened. If chili is too thick, add the remaining ½ cup of water.
Stir in beans and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook another 3 to 5 minutes, until thoroughly heated. Serve with your choice of sour cream and/or other garnishes.
If, like me, you’re a fan of the charcuterie board for impromptu get-togethers and are always in search of new additions to that board, you’ll love this one! Pumpkin deviled eggs, with their bright color and a hint of spice, are sure to become a favorite. As suggested, add some garnishes to make them extra special, and they’ll be gobbled up quickly — at Thanksgiving or any other time!
Cumin & Thyme Pumpkin Chicken Soup
Here’s a link to this tempting recipe that will easily serve six!
How great is that for a busy day during the coming holiday season? Prepare a salad, add a simple dessert, and you’ll have a weekday dinner to feed the family! Or double the recipe to feed a crowd!
Full Disclosure: I haven’t yet made this soup, but you can be sure I will. I have tried several other Paul Newman recipes and liked each one. In addition. This requires minimal prep and cooking time, and I believe you could easily substitute canned chicken to make it even easier. Finally, and this is purely a personal observation: I am fully behind the Newman commitment to support worthy causes and I like using products that contribute to that effort.
If those aren’t enough, here are some twists on traditional treats:
Pumpkin Hummus
There are any number of recipes available online. Search one out if you’re determined to start from scratch. However, if you’re in a hurry for a tasty dip or spread, simply buy your favorite plain hummus, then swirl in some pureed pumpkin and a bit of fresh lemon. Top with finely chopped cilantro, sprinkle with paprika and toasted pine nuts, and serve with your favorite crackers or fresh veggies. It couldn’t be easier.
Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip
This is another go-to idea that is superb for unexpected guests, or a simple appetizer. The flavor is uniquely satisfying, especially in the fall and during the holiday season. Serve with a variety of crackers, mini rye or pumpernickel slices, fresh veggies or button mushrooms. It’s sure to be a hit!
Again, it couldn’t be easier — soften the cheese, swirl in some pureed pumpkin. Form it into a log, a ball, or pack in into a ramekin, and serve with a variety of crackers, mini rye or pumpernickel slices, fresh veggies or button mushrooms.
It’s sure to be a hit!
Pumpkin Ice Cream
I admit that this is a newfound favorite – I was introduced to it during my recent trip to Maine. It’s available seasonally and I absolutely love it! There’s not much more to say about it, except that it’s a distinctive and delectable taste treat. The brand I had in Maine came from Trader Joe’s. I’ll definitely be watching for it, even if I have to wait until next fall to find it!
Need more ideas?
You’ll find recipes everywhere right now – from pumpkin scones to hearty cheese soup with the surprise of pumpkin and beer! Create comfort foods that you can enjoy throughout the season and into the new year!
And have a safe and happy Thanksgiving, no matter how, where, or with whom you celebrate.
Okay, so taking a cruise isn’t all about the food — sunsets, entertainment, and destinations play a large part in the selection of itineraries. Luxury service, creature comforts, pools and hot tubs, spa treatments, and a variety of tantalizing activities appeal to young and old alike, But unlimited drink packages and specialty dining venues clinch the deal for a growing legion of cruise-ship passengers each season. Major cruise lines are quick to recognize that they must cater to the diverse needs and preferences of both veteran cruisers and first-timers, so options vary considerably from one line to another. They also may be quite different from the choices that existed just a few years ago.
Recent passenger statistics point to a cruising resurgence. Numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels, and passenger volume for 2023 is expected to reach 106% of the 2019 level, to a total of 31.5 million passengers, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and some ships now report sailing routinely at 100% capacity. Passenger totals dropped to less than five million in 2021 at the height of the pandemic, but 2024 numbers are projected to reach 36 million! That’s good for the cruise lines, and for the economy, but it means that travelers must make their plans earlier, particularly if they’re seeking bargain fares and any offered perks.
If you step back in time, transatlantic voyages were a means of getting from one continent to another, albeit in luxurious fashion. Today, a cruise is about a great deal more than getting somewhere. Trans-ocean itineraries now whisk cruise passengers in high style not only to and from Europe and America but from the West Coast to the Orient, from Asia to Africa, or to circle the globe on itineraries that stretch across months and seasons. The onboard experience is all-important.
One can traverse the Panama Canal as well as the Suez, cross the equator or the International date line, or drift lazily along the rivers in a score of different countries, sometimes even captaining your own vessel. Expedition cruises that package sightseeing with high-adventure experiences are growing in popularity.
It all makes me a little envious — how about you?
What about the food?
Yes, there certainly have been changes — but, for the most part, the elegance of cruise ship menu choices and the excellence of the food offerings remain! Even though midnight dessert buffets have almost universally disappeared, there is no shortage of food options on contemporary cruise ships. And lavish buffets offer a visual treat as well as wonderful food. Most offer the availability of food and drink from early morning to late at night — sometimes on a 24-hour basis!
Choose to take all your meals in your ship’s main dining rooms, or opt instead for lavish upper-deck buffets, specialty restaurants, or room service. For the most part, traditional dinner “seatings” are no longer specified. It’s all about choice, and the choices are extensive. Ships are getting larger, and on larger ships, passengers may not even have time to sample all the options! Early reports are that a new Royal Caribbean ship expected to debut in 2024 will feature at least 40 different dining venues.
Personalize your cruising experience
Last fall, on a brief round-trip sailing from Los Angeles to San Diego and Baja California aboard Discovery Princess, we enjoyed an abundance of tasty treats — from made-to-order hand-tossed pizza at Gigi’s Pizzeria at the heart of the ship’s three-level piazza, to loaded hot dogs and fries from the Salty Dog Grill adjacent to Deck 16’s pools. We even ordered a selection of street tacos via room service to consume on our private balcony!
We did not make it to the Salty Dog Gastropub that features gourmet burgers on Deck 5, but we met friends and enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails at Good Spirits at Sea, a lively bar and favorite gathering spot just across the Piazza. The International Cafe is just next door, and it was hard to resist sampling a sandwich with a cocktail. It became even more difficult to refuse a pastry treat with a mid-morning latte or a late-night espresso. As is our tradition aboard ship, we were awakened each morning — at a time of our choosing — by a knock on our stateroom door signaling the arrival of a pot of coffee, sometimes accompanied by a selection of croissants and pastries! Isn’t that the height of personal pampering? On Princess Line ships, it’s just one of the complimentary amenities.
While we chose to enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of the ship’s superb dining rooms most evenings, after a busy day of sightseeing in San Diego, we opted for lighter fare when we returned so we could watch our sailaway from the upper deck. Another evening, we indulged in a multi-course dinner at the Crown Grill before moving on for evening entertainment at the nearby Princess Live! lounge. With all the different options available, we did not want for food at any time of day!
What to expect on your cruise vacation?
The dizzying number of options means that you must do some initial homework even before you shop for a ship. The increased popularity of river cruising adds another dimension. Today, you can opt for a laid-back, relatively casual three-day excursion out of Florida to a Caribbean island, a week-long cruise in the Mediterranean or a cruise that circles Australia, Japan, or the Hawaiian Islands. Alternatively, you can explore Alaska, Antarctica, the South Sea Islands, or the great rivers of Europe and the Americas, including the Nile, the Amazon, or the Mississippi. Combine a pre-or-post cruise land tour, and your choices are multiplied.
Choosing to cruise typically means that you pay for your vacation in advance, often including the port excursions that interest you. You unpack when you arrive at your port of embarkation with no need to pack up again for the duration of the cruise, be it seven days, three weeks, or more. Still, cruising is not for everybody. If you haven’t cruised before, it’s wise to dip your toes in the water, so to speak, on a three or four-day sailing combined with a visit to the port or a nearby beach. Also, be sure to investigate thoroughly the options and packages available from the various international cruise lines.
Not only have itineraries and destinations changed over the decades but so have cruising traditions. Where, in the past, formal attire — even ball gowns and tuxedos on occasion — were proper for dinner — the emphasis today is on informal. Some lines recommend “country club casual” with slightly upscale dress expected in the evening, and many ships still specify a formal night or theme party as part of each itinerary, usually with advance notice. Most travelers, however, don’t even pack multiple bags; sometimes a carry-on and a backpack will suffice, even for a week or longer, with laundry services available to passengers.
If you choose to join the millions of people who plan to cruise in 2023 and 2024, whether you cruise as a solo passenger, as a couple, or as part of a larger group of family or friends, Bon Voyage! Enjoy both sea days and port visits to the fullest, and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures! Most of all, savor the food!
I first met two of my traveling companions for this trip at the Kansas City Airport. We had arrived at approximately the same time from our starting points in Arkansas, Boston and Michigan. We did the only thing possible: we found a comfortable table in an airport eatery and proceeded to get to know one another until our host could pick us up.
After ordering coffees and ice water, we browsed a menu of mostly uninspired airport dining options. We did not know when we would rendezvous with our other four traveling companions, nor did we know exactly what our schedule had in store for later in the afternoon. However, we did know that we were destined for dinner at a barbecue restaurant in Fort Scott that evening. After some discussion, we decided to try the airport version of local barbecue. And we were pleasantly surprised! The three of us shared an order of barbecue pork sliders — one for each of us — ample small bites that were quite tasty.
If there’s a single universal impression of Kansas food, it’s probably of “comfort food,” and what’s more comforting to a Midwesterner than barbecue and fried chicken? More about that later.
Following an Uber ride and another round of introductions, our group was complete. We settled into our rental van for the drive from Kansas City to Fort Scott.
It was at dinner that first evening in Fort Scott that we were introduced to a great variety of barbecue options. The tagline on the menu at Luther’s BBQ, which opened in 2019 just prior to the pandemic, was “good food and plenty of it!” We were to find that could well be a statewide slogan.
The restaurant, housed in an historic brick building in the heart of Fort Scott, offered an extensive menu with much to sample — all simple food as it turned out. We enjoyed tasty deviled eggs and a variety of meats and cheeses — the best kind of finger foods, and delightful drink options, including a Bloody Mary that exceeded all expectations and was “write-home-about-good!”
Sadly, I must end my report about the meal we had at Luther’s, because a message on my computer lists the restaurant as “closed permanently.” I believe that Fort Scott residents were hoping it would be another success story in the city’s planned rejuvenation. Maybe it still will be. But, for now, the website is down, and the phone goes unanswered.
The only thing I regret? I didn’t get a “doggie bag” to take with me.
We spent the night at the historic Courtland Hotel in Fort Scott. My plate was full again the next morning with oversized breakfast burritos and specialty coffees from Common Ground Coffee Co., served picnic-style at the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes. It was another treat in the lineup of Kansas attractions that awaited our group.
The second full day in Kansas was jam-packed with new sights and experiences.
It began at the Milken Center and continued with a drive along the stretch of historic Route 66 that still runs through the state. Kansas, at least this portion of it, hasn’t changed visibly over the past several decades. In many ways, that’s comforting. You know what they say — “The more things change . . . ” Well, yes, much does remain the same.
But change is in the air and there’s a lot more to come!
More than the rush of excitement that greets us when we near a port, more than the thrill of sitting in a winged torpedo on the tarmac waiting for clearance, more than a sunrise on the horizon that signals another day in another place — what surpasses all of that, in my mind, is the variety of food that traveling allows us to experience.
The colors and flavors of foreign treats — whether a great meal, an after dinner “digestif,” or a perfect little chocolate on the pillow — these are the pieces of the travel experience that are hard to duplicate at home. The thrill of a new taste in an unfamiliar place is hard to describe. If you’re traveling close to home, it’s really no different. Keep your eyes open for the unexpected — we have discovered some of the best food in the unlikeliest of places — sublime fried catfish at a general store in back road Arkansas, for instance, an unforgettable steak dinner at an aging saloon in Ingomar, Montana, for instance, and the best fried green tomatoes ever at a ramshackle marina in the Florida Keys.
And, one lucky summer, an absolutely wonderful lobster roll at, believe it or not, a McDonald’s in a small Maine village. The only thing better than the taste was the price!
Traveling lifts us out of our ordinary existence into a realm of wonder that we want to repeat again and again. The cities, the food, the people, the monuments and the history, the natural beauty of different locales, the promise that no matter how many times we return to the same place, each experience will be different — that’s why we travel.
But, when we travel, the simple acts of sampling unique foods and sharing distinctive experiences with fellow travelers and with strangers destined to become newfound friends is an immense pleasure. Yes, we enjoy visiting renowned restaurants and seeking out special taste treats from unique cultures. “Peasant food,” however, the everyday fare of real people in diverse destinations, is what truly draws us, as do street fairs, farmers markets, food trucks, and Ma and Pa eateries.
People, of course, are always a part of the best food experiences, whether we’re ordering something from a food cart or a market stall, or struggling to make sense of a menu in a foreign language. We have perfected the art of pointing with a questioning expression — it always works! Being just a bit unsure of what it is we have ordered is truly part of the fun. And we have found locals typically quick to help translate and interpret.
Another aspect of the fun, for me at least, is my attempt to recreate some of the dishes we have enjoyed on our journeys once we return home. On a trip through Portugal in 2019, I was enamored of that country’s tomato soup in all its regional variations. I discovered an infinite variety of great tomato-based broth during our three weeks there. From the coasts to the cork forests, and from north to south, Soup de Tomate is a Portuguese staple on nearly every menu. It can be a hearty, filling stew with sausage and beans or a richly-flavored broth topped with poached eggs.
Other versions range from a nicely-spicy dish of seafood and rice to a simple, creamed tomato puree served as a starter course for a family dinner. Made with fresh, flavorful tomatoes, the various tomato soups were always tasty, filling and uniquely satisfying. Accompanied by crusty bread, cheese and olives, those meals were often “write home about” memorable. I asked for recipes whenever it was possible, and I am still trying to decide which is my personal favorite!
Global versions of “fast food” have their own kind of appeal — not the golden arches sameness or “choose your own filling” sandwich shops that Americans seem to favor — but the traditional, quick and easy street foods that sustain busy people throughout the world. One can get a slice of pizza, an empanada, a taco, a burrito, an egg roll, or a gyro in great cities around the globe; roasted corn, hot roasted chestnuts or fries with unique dipping sauces in European capitals and isolated villages. Ice cream, gelato and fruit smoothies are staples at casual stands and walk-up windows in warm climates, and open-face sandwiches and pastries are almost magically available from a world-class airport to an isolated beach along the Mediterranean. Food is a universal need, as well as a treat that brings people together to experience the joys of life.
So, I hope to lure you into the habit of sampling local fare wherever you may roam. It takes little effort to seek out distinctive food experiences, whether you’re in a world capital, visiting a charming small town, or traveling a country lane. Usually, these delightful destinations have no neon signs. Instead, a hand-written menu on a chalkboard may offer the only clue to treasures that lie within. Put aside the guidebooks and pay little heed to online reviews.
Peek through the windows of a diner, or step inside a tiny bistro. If seats are full, and people are smiling, join the crowd. On a road trip, we often pull into the parking lot of a local diner filled with local pickups and a smattering of 18-wheelers. Eagerly embrace your personal spirit of adventure, and you’ll likely reap the rewards of good, wholesome food served with a smile.
In the same way, wherever you may live, pay special attention to the push-cart vendors, the food trucks and the out-of-the-way lunch counters and snack bars. You may not always be delighted. There’s no guarantee.
But, if nothing else, you’re likely to have great stories to tell. And the best travel souvenirs, by far, are the stories you can repeat over and over again.
Good Food and Faraway Places 