After another 4 hours of driving with some added brochure gathering along the way, we mapped out another taproom to try. This stop was in Columbia, South Carolina.
I’ve never been to Columbia before but was surprised by the amount of traffic it had surrounding this city. This stop would get us one step closer to our destination of Summerville, SC. Chosen mostly for its name and southern charm.
Another mural right outside the location. Not sure what it all means with the donuts and whale but definitely original. Can appreciate the rainbow coloration of the friends quote.
It was surprisingly a little higher end for a brewery. It was established in 1995 so the crowd definitely had an older vibe to it. (I fit right in)
Was located near the University of South Carolina. We passed the stadium on our way out of town and it was surprisingly huge! Felt more like a professional stadium to me.
We took a seat up in the balcony area which made for a great people watching view. The exposed brick and pipes gave it a warm industrial vibe.
An hour and a half later, we checked into the Airbnb and decided to stretch our legs and check out the small town. It was now 9 pm- we started our road trip at 7:15 am.
The weather was surprisingly warm and was such a great retreat from where we came from where the temperature was cold to the bone at around 20 degrees.
We found a local joint and I ordered a local beer. Exhausted we didn’t make it out for more than one. But the fun began the following morning as we decided to do a brewery crawl to see what the locals of the Charleston area had going on.
I was so happy when Stephanie mentioned going on a hike this weekend. I just started a new full time job and was a bit overwhelmed with the learning curve I was facing. Nature was exactly what I needed to heal my confidence and Stephanie was the perfect friend to accompany me.
I found this trail near her suburban home which I’d never hiked before. She was excited to check it out with me. The world is too big to explore the same place twice.
I was cracking up with the visual of the person picking up the poop of their dog. Who approves this art? 🙂 Hilarious. Reminded me of the signs I used to see in the bathrooms in Asia explaining how not to stand on the toilet. Very cool that there was archery nearby. We also came across a lot of trail runners.
Picked this trail mainly because of the loop and the fact that it was near the Little Miami River.
When you get to the trail head there is a mansion and this old carriage house. Assuming based on the trail name, that this property formerly belonged to a family named Carter.
A little history on this location:
Ahimaaz King was a local industrialist who founded a gunpowder andcartridge manufacturing plant on the Little Miami River back in the late 1800s. The workers of his factory moved to the area that would soon be called Kings Mills. Nearly the entire village was built at King’s request to house his employees.
After Ahimaaz died in 1909, the King family lived in this mansion home for 3 generations. The famous amusement park, Kings Island, still holds the family name.
Immediately I was loving the trees, especially the ones showing off their own unique personalities.
Remember to look up. Always. Even if your vertigo has kicked in from stress.
The trails were quite easy to follow but occasionally we would find a path less travelled.
This tree was alive and well, simply leaning over to grab a bit of sun, showing that not everyone follows the same path.
I was loving the message on this tree and the way the scars showed up in a textured bark rather than just a slice. I wondered if he was speaking to me or if someone was trying to speak to him.
We hit the trail about 10 am so the sun was not blazing yet. It was a perfect day for a hike.
I was loving this tree and wished I could make myself small to escape into its hallows.
We were getting near the river and there were signs posted to kindly stay on path.
I made Stephanie run ahead so I could capture the perspective of this place. It was a surprise having this great forest preserve in the middle of the suburbs.
Stopped to admire the camouflage of this bark. The leaves have started falling.
As we approached the Little Miami River, we saw remnants of an old bridge.
Seeing the man on the other side was cool. He was telling us to come on through.
A great glimpse of the river through the cement windows.
An interesting manmade structure in the midst of nature.
Then we finally found our way down to the river.
It was gorgeous and just starting to transition to fall.
If I were alone I would have sat for a bit listening to the river as it made its way through the shallow curve.
Loved how I could capture the reflection of myself in Stephanie’s glasses and the water reflections behind her.
There were seashells mixed in with the pebbles. I always equated shells with the ocean, but obviously this is not true.
Stephanie mentioned how it would be so different if we attended college later in life. We have such a different perspective now. I know many people go back to school to reinvent themselves career wise, or follow a different path. But I am stuck making a living on my past experience and not my new found interests. Sad I can’t live off my blog and appreciation of nature 🙂
Selfie moment.
Such a quiet walk in the woods.
Some stairs to help us up the incline.
Fantastic fungi lining the way.
This tree was decorated by it.
I was loving how the roots provided a natural staircase but then man decided we needed better and built over top the remainder of the way.
After our hike outlined here in red, we headed down the river a bit to sit outside and enjoy some refreshments, where the blue dot is.
More water views, with a beer, yes please. Weidemans blood orange was the perfect local craft brew for our afternoon.
We ended up a bar called the Monkey Bar which was in between the Little Miami River and the Loveland Bike Trail.
This place comes to life with its indoor/outdoor venue. So many different sections- to sit by a fire, by the bar, on the balcony, or to by the tvs to watch a sports event.
We of course stayed outdoors to not only be Covid safe, but the enjoy the afternoon weather and share much needed friendship advise.
Stephanie has been through all my hard times with me. And when I moved to Thailand, she always made a point to put a date on our calendars as if I never left. 💚
Omg Asheville did not disappoint this weekend! George and I decided to road trip and had a blast checking out the brewery scene!
First night we hit 7 different breweries with one beer or flight per bar. They all had unique themes/vibes/ and flavors.
#1- High Wire– It was closest to where we were staying and we thought we’d just have a drink then work our way into the city. Needless to say, that night, we didn’t quite make it that far. Love when plans are fluid. This place had a pamphlet on all of the breweries in Asheville and that’s how we started our brewery jumping adventure.
Big top circus theme.
Everywhere throughout Asheville there were murals and rainbow colors. There was a mandatory mask mandate put back into place in this city. Places were not as crowded as I would’ve expected on a weekend.
Our flights and research pamphlets. I learned George has a pamphlet/brochure love or what some may say, hoarding tendency. Ya learn so much about people when you travel with them. 🤷🏻♀️🤣
Even the chandeliers were fun. We ran into a second HiWire location later on.
#2- Burial Beer- I wanted to head there next just due to their name. They also had a hatchet as part of their graphics.
This wooden sculpture was right next door to the brewery- quite odd looking and I didn’t take time to read the history of it but thought I’d still share with y’all.
By the looks of the mural outside the Burial Brewery, you knew this was going to be an uniquely special place.
This brewery seemed to specialize in sours- or maybe we just opted for them. But it was quite enjoyable! Was a cool day out. Cloudy and rained on and off.
We picked this vehicle to sit in. How fun right?!
Beers on the dash.
It was ironic that we ended up back in a car after 5+ hours of driving to get there. Much more relaxing with no traffic and a beer in hand.
Having a great time! So glad we planned this escape.
#3- Urban Orchard-we decided after sours maybe some ciders would be the next right choice. We headed around the corner to this classy open bar area.
Their mural. Love how the art takes on the personality of the place.
Very simple modern decor. Most people were lined up along the bar facing the outdoors and were enjoying people watching. Unfortunately I didn’t get a photo of this section.
We opted to sit on the comfy couch, with the unfortunate view of the bathrooms across the way.
When looking back through our photos it was funny how George and I never ordered the same thing. Opposites attract as they say.
#4- Green Man Brewery- After the cider bar we were stuck in the rain and I realized I lost my cardigan. Knowing I was going to catch a chill after getting wet I went on the hunt for my jacket, while George headed back to the car to fetch an umbrella. We knew we needed to get some food in us, but somehow I ended up at yet another bar with a drink ordered instead.
Interesting venue.
I immediately headed up the staircase to check out the rooftop views. Sadly the view wasnt of anything too impressive. But the atmosphere was fun with a bachelor party group upstairs. Typical young men telling lies and picking up girls with their wedding rings in their pockets.
Our rooftop bar view.
George called it quits and we headed out for food, umbrella in hand. I told him I wouldn’t melt.
#5- Funkatorium- We finally found a spot that served food. We had no idea what their menu was but there was a line to get in, and we were ready to eat.
A night view of the restaurant.
A look at the inside.
Me getting sassy and tired of my photo being taken 🙂 Picnic style seating. Great outdoor area with a lot of large groups having a great night out.
This was on the sidewalk as we crossed the street to the next stop. Just a happy kid with a balloon following the stars. That’s about how I felt at this point.
#6- Twin Leaf– This place pulled me in with the karaoke sound coming out of the open doorway. I had drank enough to be brave and was ready to belt out a rocking tune – I was ready to show George my onstage skills.
We didn’t get very far. The line for the beer was not moving, so we gave up and found another joint.
Looked like a cute intimate brewery. Maybe next time I will bless Asheville with my singing voice. 🤪
#7- Wehrloom Honey- This last stop was a perfect way to end our evening. We were following the sound of a band we heard down an alleyway and as we passed this place, the brew-master waved us in. How could we resist?
The menu.
I guess this beer is made from honey. I never heard of it before.
We did a flight to taste the variety. I honestly did not like any of them.
Obviously two sheets to the wind at this point and very glad this was our last stop for the night.
#8- Sierra Nevada- The next morning we had a lunch date with my Aunt and Uncle who live in Greenville, NC. Due to Covid, I haven’t seen them in two years. I was really looking forward to visiting with them and dragging George along for the ride.
Happy to be back.
This is the mecca of breweries. A must visit if you come this way. Plenty of beers to try and a pretzel with beer cheese that is to die for.
Inside the bar area.
My family. So kind. So fun. And wonderful to see how well they both are doing.
I noticed this bike fixing kit which seems to be a staple at many of the larger places.
And of course a clever bike rake.
#9- New Belguim Brewery- After visiting my aunt and uncle, we stopped at the North Carolina Arboretum. (see following blogs) and then headed back toward the River Arts section of Asheville which was recommended to me by Paul Flam. It did not disappoint!
Love the themes. Making a place unforgettable is a must.
Most people were choosing to sit outdoors and only came in to refill their drinks.
Merch.
Beer choices here were my favorite!
Our outdoor view. I love red umbrellas next to the blue skies.
Cheers. Here we go again 🙂
I truly felt in vacation mode. 💚
George is so kind to me. I cannot quite figure it out yet…..but am appreciating every minute of my time with him. He literally held the umbrella at an angle to block the sun until we finished our beers.
Again with the bike repair kit. So clever and encouraging.
#10- Wedge Brewery- As we were walking around some of the art studios in the River district we came across this metal sign and followed it to check it out.
I mean, what more could you ask for?
There was such interesting metal artwork throughout this place. All outdoor seating.
So cool right?
Looked as if they could make anything out of scrap metal parts.
I loved this saying. Such a great way to put it.
There are several art studios to shop at in this warehouse like building. We actually did not get a beer here, but instead got one at their second location.
This was the outdoor area for the second Wedge location. It was near all the graffiti areas further down the river.
The taps. I have no idea what I got. The bartender here was not the friendliest.
Indoors. They bragged about having air conditioning. It was a bonus after such a long day in the sun.
Not sure that this is truly his quote, but in his voice, it seems just about right.
After breakfast with my daughters at Sugar & Spice, I decided to show George around Eden Park and nearby Mt. Adams. Every time he comes up, I am hoping to show him a new part of this great city of Cincinnati. It offers so many interesting neighborhoods and whenever I am given an opportunity to show them off to friends, I welcome it.
There is so much history here and interesting stories that go along with it. I mean which other city has a past president with the reputation of getting stuck in a bathtub? or stories of Charles Manson trying to jump off the balcony of a bar? Ohio masks itself in ordinary but it is anything but.
We drove around the winding streets of Mt. Adams dreaming about what houses we would purchase given the money. We decided to pop into this bar which said it was open. It was noon on Sunday, perfect time for our first cocktail. 🤷🏻♀️🥂
The backbar reputedly came from a speakeasy owned by an infamous Cincinnati bootlegger, George Remus. The success of his bootlegging franchise grabbed attention so he gave his diamond collection to his wife who then immediately filed for divorce. Two hours before Remus’ trial began, he tracked down his wife in Eden Park and killed her. He then pleaded insanity and was sentenced to a mental hospital of which he was later released.
Imagine if bars could talk.
The location was the first drinking establishment in Ohio to obtain a liquor license after prohibition was repealed.
A happy day for all Americans.
There was plenty of interesting decor to keep your attention. This place was packed with locals.
George grabbed a pamphlet about Mt. Adams and Eden Park, which sparked us going to check out the City View Tavern located on Oregon Street. It’s in the middle of a neighborhood and you would miss it completely if you didn’t look for it. I hadn’t been there since my children were around 4 years old….so needless to say, its been awhile. But not one thing had changed.
When you walk into this dive bar the view immediately grabs your attention.
From their balcony you could see the rooftops of the million dollars homes also sharing the cityview.
Was loving the Budweiser poster and the reference to the Maisonette.
This bar had some historic photos of the incline that used to take people up to this great mount.
I wasn’t sure what to order, since it was a dive bar where the beers were basic, the liquor selection limited plus no cocktail menu. This place is well known for its burgers served with a side of local Grippos potato chips.
The bartender (who also served as the cook, waitress, and busser of the place) offered to make me a tequila sunrise with citron vodka instead of tequila. She then told the below story as to why tequila will never be served here. I copied the below out of a google search which told the story she informed us of.
While staying in Hyde Park, I discovered a new donut shop on the square. It is located along the street where my kids, many moons ago, went to elementary school. So glad it wasn’t there at that time, would’ve been a very bad habit for me! I recommend anyone coming through this area of town to check out this new -to-me franchise.
It’s super cute with a trillion options! All very creative and made fresh on the spot. They have a display for you to choose from, but literally make them to order as you go through the line. The team working there was moving fast attempting to get the continuously growing line down this Friday am, with little success. People were leaving just as others coming in at 10 am.
At the entryway I was greeted by this groovy peace loving cut out. I felt right at home with her vibe.
Love the tie dye pillows and colorful walls.
When I first came in, all the tables were busy. Many people were sharing a variety of a dozen donuts ordered, testing to see which was their favorite.
This was the production line for the donuts. Very small batches.
The donuts themselves are cake like and about 3″. There were so many choices! Opera cream, Peanut butter and jelly, Coffee cake, Coconut, Snickers, Lucky Charms, Lemon, Blueberry, Raspberry, Smores, the list of creativity was endless.
They dipped into the assorted toppings below as they made each to order.
Needless to say I ate all 6 donuts that I ordered. I was happy I walked there to justify my over consumption with a balance of a little bit of exercise. My favorite flavor so far is the PB & J- was oddly unique.
My daughter, Sedona, asked if I wanted to go on a walk with her since it was another beautiful day out. I’ll never turn down quality time with my daughter, plus the weekend wasn’t over yet!
We walked down multiple flights of historic cement steps to reach the art area of Pendleton.
I had never tried the Braxton Brewery before. The place was completely open aired but virtually empty. Located right beside the old performing arts school, now renovated into pet friendly apartments, I expected it to be busier.
Across the street we spotted an ice cream shop which we saved room for.
Thinking maybe this area is not yet discovered. Or possibly people are staying inside due to the surge in virus cases? Can’t quite figure it out.
They partner with the wings joint next door for some bar food options.
I would definitely get the fries again. Also highly recommend the blood orange shandy. So refreshing for a summer day.
We got to the ice cream store about 10 minutes before they closed. They were busy! And out of a lot of flavors. Seemed they were known for their shakes and sides of edible cookie dough based on what I saw people order.
I made Sedona pose beside the transformer. She was being a good sport.
Loved the “ funeral, no parking” sign beside the stadium seats.
Any place where President Lincoln is hanging on the wall beside Elvis Presley, you know you are in the right place.
And to top that, the employee of the month in the bathroom🤣. Someone has a sense of humor.
I convinced Sedona to download the Lime Scooter app and ride back. I told her it was just like the scooters in Phuket- feels free, adventurous, dangerous and fun. On the way Sedona butt dialed Zoe, her twin, who was out with friends. Once parked I snapped a selfie of the three of us. Was a perfect way to complete my Cincy weekend!
While walking to grab a pair of scooters we passed this mural. I think it sums up my attitude.
First stop -necessity of drinks and tacos! We headed to the Cincinnati Banks where there are plenty of food choices, stadiums, museums and the river walk.
Condado Tacos. Jalapeño margarita and corona draft, yes please!
Virlane wanted to take a few photos of the ballpark for her brother who is a diehard St.Louis Cardinals fan.
Showing her love for our Reds! Mr.Redlegs- whatever the hell that is. A very strange mascot.
Pete Rose, back from the days when I knew all the players.
It was 4 ish and fans were already waiting to get in to the 7 pm game.
We reminisced about how both of our families used to pack us up in the car and drive hours to a baseball game when we were kids. It was a big event! We never spent the night, but it was a long day out. I remember sleeping in our sleeping bags on the way home in the back of the station wagon.
Love seeing all the red color. It was a gorgeous day to be out. They blocked off the stadium street so you could walk around and drink/eat before the game.
We headed down toward the Ohio River and sat on the swings for a bit chatting and people watching.
Sculpture along the wall.
And even a meditation labyrinth.
Great view of the Roebling Bridge.
We decided to take the Connector to OTR brewery district. This tram beautifully attaches these two areas making it easy to check them both out in one day.
This transportation is free and super convenient.
I took her to Lackmans where I had my first date with GPP/Louisville Lover.
Always sharing laughs and memories.
We passed Cincinnati Music Hall where there was an event going on. Virlane told me, as we were walking by, that she smelled a skunk. 🤣🤣🤣🙈. I started cracking up. Certainly she cannot be my friend and be that naive.
We went to Tafts Brewery which is inside an old church. Thought that would be a unique venue.
Looking down from our upper level view.
Bar upstairs is quite beautiful.
I always appreciate the messages displayed of peace and open mindedness in Cincinnati.
We then jumped back onto the Connector and got out in front of the Rhinegiest Brewery. I wasn’t sure if this late into the day she was going to be up for all the stairs, but the rooftop was worth it!
I was so happy that my friend Virlane road tripped across the flatlands of Illinois and Indiana to spend the weekend with me!! We met in Thailand a couple years ago and she was my go-to person there! I remember when she told me she was moving back to the USA. I was devastated. She lived in Phuket for 4 years and was ready for a new start. This was pre-Covid.
Little did I know I’d be joining her 6 months later escaping Phuket’s Covid lockdowns.
What I’ve learned is newness can be found everywhere if you know how to change your point of view. Doesn’t matter that Virlane and I are now bar-hopping in Cincinnati instead of Phuket Town. Good friends will find adventure wherever they are together.
I’ve been wanting to check out this BBQ place. Kept waiting for someone to go there with. It was super cute!
When we read the door sign we knew we were in the right place.
The bartender wiped the puddles off the outdoor barstools from the previous rain and we positioned ourselves outside looking in, enjoying this surprisingly unexpected weather. Virlane brought the sunshine with her. Rain was predicted for the entire weekend.
Selfie capturing our first stop. There was a band playing that had an accordion player and an amazing fiddler. Eclectic. Exactly what we needed to match our energy.
Virlane ordered a Tafts key lime beer and was cracking up at the guy in the bathtub logo.
Fun facts about President Taft who is from Cincinnati.
It started to rain for a bit but we decided that wasn’t going to keep us from trying Brewdogs, another place that’s been on my bucket list. I walk and drive past this place a lot. It’s never opened but being that it was Friday night, I figured it would be our best shot.
Somewhat empty as the storms were rolling in and it was close to 11:30 pm.
Love the contrast signs. No dogs, but beware of them. Most breweries around here allow dogs, which I personally don’t understand. I mean I like animals/pets but they don’t have to go everywhere with me.
Cute set up. Tons of party space! Someone was celebrating their 30th birthday on the second level. Would be a fun spot for large groups.
The beer menu.
We decided to go to beer school and get educated.
I tried a flight. One tasted like marshmallows ♥️. Found out later it was made with coconut. Such a unique and smooth flavor.
We stayed until last call and by the time we left it was pouring down rain. We both had no issue with getting wet, as in Thailand this was a common event-getting soaked. It was fun.
When we got home my daughters were up and we continued our night drinking our way through the 12 pack of Thai beers Virlane brought with her. This was my brand that I enjoyed when I was there. She of course remembered.
End of the night. I looked like a drowned sweaty rat but Virlane still had it together. We were up until 2:30 am, then finally decided it was time to call it a night. Always the first night you see a friend that you haven’t been in touch with for awhile, its a doozie. You never want the night to end.
Virlane has changed my life in so many ways. I love that the universe had us meet on the island.
It’s been about a year since I’ve met up with my childhood friend, Debbie. Our last hike was at Tawawa Park in Sidney, Ohio back in August when I was first adjusting back from Thailand. How does Covid time go by so slowly and quickly at the same time? It’s like a time warp! But Debbie has kept in touch with me all year as we Marco Polo each other on a weekly basis. This video communication app really helped me when in Thailand and continues to make me feel connected when distance is between us.
We decided to meet up at the historic restaurant in Clifton, Ohio and enjoy some Sunday breakfast before our planned hike. It was literally pouring down rain as I headed out at 8:30 am with no indication of stopping. Debbie left me a message, being the optimistic trooper that she is, saying she was hopeful I was bringing the sun with me and that she was in her best hiking gear complete with a hooded rain jacket. Love that she was ready no matter what and not calling to cancel which is what I originally predicted.
The outside of the restaurant.
The property was surrounded by vintage buildings. I have never been to this part of the Ohio countryside before. I am told they also put on an awesome Christmas light display.
No historic town is complete unless it has a local blacksmith.
Inside was the charm of an old country shop. Knick Knacks galore!
I purchased some cow tails in memory of my daughter’s childhood candy walks. In our Oakley neighborhood, there was a ghetto candy shop at the end of our block and the kids would walk down to buy cow tails regularly. (cow tails are caramel cream in a long strand)
A view outside, still raining, of the historic mill and covered bridge.
Debbie noticed the pancake challenge right away, but in the end we both opted for the french toast.
Debbie being a sport with me snapping photos. This one capturing the real sunflower set at our table. Such a nice touch.
This defines Debbie. She has been my friend for 47 years and I cherish her optimism, sarcasm, & outlook on life and truly appreciate her support of my crazy spirited lifestyle.
After finishing up my Cambly afternoon I googled top local places to eat in Louisville and Taco Luchandor came up. It was such a beautiful day out and a margarita is never a bad choice. (More than two may be, but…..)
This restaurant has several locations. I chose the one in St.Matthews area which was closest to where I was staying.
There was a large outdoor seating area. Was looking forward to that. Very artistic decor. Fast food Panera ordering style which I didn’t expect. Adorable environment. Seemed many groups of friends were out sharing pitchers of margaritas. Wish Beth and Linda were here to join me. I tried a chicken taco. Every time I eat chips and queso I regret it. But I can’t seem to pass it up on the menu.
Tonya Takes Thailand 