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The incredible Mass MoCA in North Adams Over the holidays, my daughters and I were looking for something fun to do while they were visiting me in Saratoga Springs. Taylor, my youngest daughter, suggested taking a short drive (just over an hour) to visit Mass MoCA (the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) in North Adams, Massachusetts. I agreed, even though I am not the biggest museum fan. I am so glad she suggested it because it was an incredible afternoon that I highly recommend! The drive through charming small towns and beautiful scenery was easy and relaxing and the Museum itself was breathtaking in more ways than one! The Beautiful Mass MoCA Buildings Are Historic and Artistic in Their Own Right! Mass MoCA is one of the largest centers for contemporary visual and performing arts in the United States. The Museum is housed in a converted factory that used to produce printed textiles up until 1942 when it was closed due to the impacts of the Depression. All of the buildings in the factory complex were originally built between 1870 and 1900. The 19th century complex is listed on the National Historic Register and the 26 buildings are connected by an elaborate system of interlocking courtyards and passageways that the Museum curators have expertly integrated into the presentation of the art exhibits. The brick facades, industrial accents and large windows are rich with history and create an architectural ambiance that perfectly complements the amazing art displayed within. I spent almost as much time admiring the details of the buildings as I did the incredible art. The Mass MoCA Art Exhibits Banners of the Current Mass MoCA Exhibits We spent several hours at the Museum and didn't even come close to seeing all of the exhibits listed on the Museum's website. You should plan for several hours if you want to see it all in one trip OR you can plan to split it up and take a couple of day trips to cover the whole Museum. There are many long-term exhibits supplemented by several temporary exhibits that are only on display for a designated period. There are exhibits from well-known artists as well as new and emerging artists. The exhibits are mostly large-scale, immersive installations. The experience at Mass MoCA is so different than what you would typically experience at a more traditional museum. This is exactly what I really enjoyed about my Mass MoCA visit. Many of the exhibits were artistic representations of deeper ideas and concepts that really made me think as I experienced the art. Here are a few of my favorites from what we saw: SOL LEWITT: A colorful Sol LeWitt Wall Drawing The Sol LeWitt: A Wall Drawing Retrospective is a amazing exhibition of 105 wall drawings installed on three floors of a 27,000 square foot mill building specifically renovated for this show. The work is on display for an unprecedented 35-year period. The three floors represent his work Early Career, Mid-Career and Later Career respectively. The exhibit clearly shows the progression of his work and his wall drawings are certainly distinctive and visually intriguing. EJ HILL: The fun and funky paintings of EJ Hill The EJ Hill: Brake Run Helix exhibit was fun because of the bright pink colors and neon lights, not to mention the fully-functional, rideable roller coaster! We were there just in time for an actual performance of the art installation when one of the Museum employees took a ride on the pink EJ Hill roller coaster. EJ Hill has been obsessed with roller coasters since he was young, constantly sketching roller coaster designs. His works reflect this passion in sculptures and paintings. The title of the exhibit, Brake Run Helix, comes from two essential elements required for a functional roller coaster design: a brake run and a helix. The brake run is a section of the track meant to slow or stop a coaster's carts giving riders "a moment to collect themselves, for their minds to catch up with their bodies." The helix is a moment in a roller coaster's track when the carts complete at least one 360 degree turn: "a moment of intense g-force and forcible perspectival shift". While the functional roller coaster in the Brake Run Helix exhibit does not contain a brake run or a helix, the title can be interpreted to be an artistic representation "of social and environmental structures that mercilessly subject the body to outside forces." [Quotes from the EJ Hill pamphlet provided by the Museum.] I love the whimsical nature of this EJ Hill sculpture! MARK SWANSON: An eery display at the Mark Swanson exhibit A Memorial to Ice at the Dead Deer Disco. Mark Swanson's exhibit, A Memorial to Ice at the Dead Deer Disco, was a strange but moving exhibit meant to represent the relationship between humans, culture and the natural world. The ruins in the art sculptures and environments he created "symbolize a bleak future resulting from the impending loss and inevitable results of climate change, a future which could have been avoided, but now comes with consequences beyond our control." The installation represents the two spaces where Mr. Swanson felt the most comfortable and spiritually connected-the nightclubs of his youth and in the woods today. Despite this comfort, both places became sites of threat due to climate change and the AIDS crisis. Mr. Swanson creates an intriguiging and eerily uncomfortable space with his sculptures and environments reflecting humans' destruction of the natural world. [Quotes from the Mark Swanson pamphlet provided by the Museum.] LOUISE BOURGEOIS: A poignant metal sculpture by Louise Bourgeois. Louise Bourgeois transformed emotions about intimacies and traumas of childhood, marriage, motherhood, and artistic struggles into physical form through her artwork. She used a variety of materials and mediums in her work that evoke a highly provocative feeling when observing them. She was intrigued by the subconscious and it is said her artwork is an expression of repressed feelings from anger to fear, love and desire. There is definitely a feminine energy to her work and I really enjoyed the pieces in her exhibit. SOME OTHER AMAZING EXHIBITS WE SAW: In addition to the highlighted artists above, there were many other amazing art pieces we got to experience at Mass MoCA. Here is a teaser to encourage you to plan your own visit! Performing Arts at Mass MoCA Besides the unexpected performance art experience we happened to catch with the EJ Hill roller coaster, we did not attend any other live performances at Mass MoCA. However, Mass MoCA presents numerous performances year round. In fact, 50% of Mass MoCA's programming resources are devoted to performing arts. Live events include popular music, contemporary dance, alternative cabaret, world music dance parties, outdoor silent films with live music, avant -garde theater, documentaries and music festivals. Check out their schedule of performances here and maybe you can combine a Museum visit with a performance! Where to Get Sustenance for Your Mass MoCA Day? If you need to take a break during your visit to Mass MoCA, there are several places to grab a bite to eat or something to drink right at the Mass MoCA complex. Lickety Split at Mass MoCA: This cafe is right in the Main Building of the Museum. They serve delicious sandwiches, salads, coffee and ice cream to go. They also offer yummy baked goods. I had a slice of pumpkin bread that hit the spot when we took a quick snack break! Door Prize: Located right outside of the Museum, this spot serves sandwiches and more. It has limited hours so it may not be open depending on when you visit. Tunnel City Coffee: Located to the side of the Museum, you can get your caffeine boost here. Bright Ideas Brewing: Maybe a craft beer is more your speed? No worries, Bright Ideas Brewing is located right outside of the Museum and serves beer that is brewed right on site. Planning Your Day at Mass MoCA Mass MoCA is open Wednesdays through Mondays from 10-5. Advanced timed entry tickets are highly recommended, although we were fine just walking in to purchase tickets. Tickets prices are $20 for Adults, $12 for Students, $8 for Children Under 16 (Children Under 5 are free!). Note that there is a Free Museum Day on Saturday, January 28th ! You would definitely want to reserve a timed entry ticket if you want to take advantage of the Free Day. Reserve or purchase entry tickets here . I suggest you check out all of the exhibits that will be there when you plan to visit at the Mass MoCA website to get an idea of what things you want to see if you don't have time to explore all the exhibits. The exhibits are all very different and there is sure to be something for everyone! I was very pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed Mass MoCA and I think you will be too. Even if you don't consider yourself the "artsy" type, the exhibits are so fun and different it will definitely capture your interest. Enjoy and let me know what your favorite exhibit was!

This post is a little different than my usual travel blog, but it is relevant because it involves going about this life solo in all aspects, including travel. As I have mentioned in earlier blogs, I recently got divorced after 25 years of marriage. A lot of changes come with that, but the most significant one is learning how to do life solo after years of being accompanied by a partner and family. In the months after my separation, I had a sense of freedom. I only had to worry about myself after years of trying to meet someone else's expectation, taking care of everyone else's needs (which I was very happy to do for all those years), and not having to worry about many of the things that ultimately led to the disconnect in my marriage. I realized I had lost myself along the way and was excited to take some time to rediscover parts of myself that had been neglected. I also focused on reconnecting with friendships that had not received the attention they deserved when I was struggling with my emotions and the crumbling of my marriage. In full transparency, after this initial feeling of relief, reality set in. Coming to terms with all that was lost and all the future plans that will never happen was sad. I realized that, at least for now, I truly am on this journey solo. My daughters are truly amazing and of course they have been supportive during this whole period, but they are adults and have their own paths to forge. Honestly, sometimes this realization that it is just me, myself and I feels liberating and sometimes it feels scary. But I know that this is where I need to be right now. One thing that has been the most difficult about being single as a middle aged woman (or just a single person in general) is realizing how much of life (and society, media, etc.) is focused on being part of a couple. Of course, there is nothing wrong with wanting companionship and love in your life. I am open to that if it happens to cross my path again, but I am not actively seeking it at the moment. I want to experience life on my own terms and in my own way at this phase of my life. But because of the emphasis that is placed on being part of a couple, it is hard not to equate value with having someone by my side. It is easy to let myself feel "less than" because I have not "been chosen" by another to be their life partner. But the growth comes by being ok with that and realizing that I am choosing not to "be chosen". I have learned that my value comes from the unique qualities I bring to the party and not who is coming to the party with me. Taking some time to live life alone is so important. Being solo gives you an opportunity to do some deep soul searching and find out what is important to you. What things do YOU want to prioritize, what goals do YOU have for yourself, how do YOU want to live your life, what kind of future do YOU envision? Not that you can't do this with someone else, but then you will obviously need to compromise and answer those questions considering the answers for a "WE" and not a "ME". If you find yourself single in midlife it is a unique opportunity to reassess your life and take a moment to really think about these things with no other opinions or distractions. Once you figure it out and start living your life in alignment with these things, any one who comes into your life as a friend or a partner will only enhance the vision you created. Failing to take the necessary time to dig deep and do the work to discover your authentic self is wasting a precious opportunity. That being said, it takes a lot of fortitude and confidence to stick to the solo journey. I am, and have always been, a fiercely independent person. I enjoy my alone time and have no problem doing things by myself. But I would be lying if I said that it wasn't hard sometimes. Going into a restaurant and saying I am a "Party of One" can feel awkward. I do travel with friends often, but they are not always available when I want to travel so I do take a lot of trips by myself. Traveling by myself is fun, but there are always moments I wish I had that "built in" travel partner to share those amazing experiences. Sometimes it would be nice just to have someone sitting quietly on the other end of the couch or binge-watching a great show with me. Yes, there are definitely times when I feel lonely. But there is a difference between being alone and being lonely. There were plenty of times I felt lonely even when I had that partner, so being coupled up is no guarantee that you avoid that lonely feeling. Now, the occasional lonely feeling passes and I am left with a realization that I am happy living the authentic life I have created for myself. Choosing to be single will require you to often defend or explain your choice. We are constantly bombarded with media messages that finding that "perfect partner" should be our primary focus. Well-meaning people will ask if you are dating and tell you "not to worry" because you will find someone else when the time is right. But what if you don't want that? What is wrong with wanting to enjoy life's journey surrounded by good friends and family? What if you want to keep your independence? Why is staying single not a choice that is more prevalent and accepted? It is important that we begin to normalize being single, regardless of age or gender. We should honor someone's choice to take some (or all) of their life journey as a solo traveller. You can be a "Party of One" and that's perfectly ok!

On a very cold and rainy evening in Amsterdam, my friends and I ventured out to visit a bar called Tales and Spirits known for its creative cocktails. My friend Ann's research tipped us off that we were going to taste some unique concoctions, but we didn't fully know what an experience was in store for us. Despite being known as a cocktail bar, the place is very low-key and has more of a pub feel. It is a quirky and whimsical place and I felt like I had stepped into another world when we walked through the door. The bar is filled with vintage and antique pieces and the walls have several handpainted murals and quotes on the walls. The room was quaint and cozy which was the perfect antidote to the damp, chilly night outside. I felt a magical energy as soon as we walked in, in part because of the friendliness of the servers and bartenders. It seems that everyone at Tales and Spirits is definitely having fun at their job. Their enthusiasm helps create the party-like atmosphere in the small space (well, that and the strong drinks they make). It was fun to watch them create their artistic masterpieces. The cocktail menu is a creative work on its own! It takes a while to go through it as it is filled with stories and art supporting the description of the unique cocktails. The drinks have names like Fallen Lady, What If...(which corresponds to the painted mural above), Shut the Fuck Up George!, Little Miss Trouble, and MoJo. There is also a complete menu of specialized Old Fashioned's if that is your go-to drink. Find a complete cocktail menu here to check out your options if you plan to visit Tales and Spirits. You may want to preview your choices because there are so many interesting drinks it could take a while to decide. One of the most interesting drinks offered at Tales and Spirits is called the Zombie and luckily my friend Misty ordered it. The drink came with a whole presentation. Words alone can not capture the experience so I will let a video show you how the Zombie is delivered. Needless to say we were surprised by the fireworks display inside the bar! When we asked what was in the drink the server just said "Everything!". Ok...enough said. Misty didn't want to have a drink with "everything" in it by herself, so we got four straws and all took a taste. Probably a good idea as the bar itself limits customers to only two Zombies a night! You can see from the description below what "everything" actually means! The little shot glass that is lit on fire can actually be added to the Zombie as well. It's not too hard to figure out where the name of this drink came from. Upon arrival, the server provided us with a complimentary bottle of water (to keep us hydrated!) and some delicious crunchy chips with mango chutney. There is also a menu with a selection of bar bites. I highly recommend you order some for a couple of reasons. First, the drinks are strong so eating food is probably a good idea. Second, the bar bites are delicious! We ordered a few different ones to share. We got the Crunchy Chicken (which were finger bites of chicken that tasted like Sesame Chicken), Mini Cheese Souffles (pockets of deliciously melted cheese-my personal favorite!) and Bitterballen (a traditional Dutch snack served with spicy mustard). So yummy! There are other great options on the menu like Pork Buns, Onion Rings and Jalapeño Poppers. I don't think you can go wrong! If you find yourself in Amsterdam, make sure to venture to Tales and Spirits. Learn more about the bar and get directions here . They are open on Tuesday through Saturday from 17:30 (5:30 pm for us Americans) to 1:00. You should know that Tales and Spirits does not take reservations and operates on a first come, first serve basis. Rumor is it gets very crowded later at night and on weekends. We were there on a Thursday, but we made to sure to get there right when they opened so we could definitely get in. We arrived a bit before opening time and there was already a short line forming. Luckily we were able to snag a table, but the small space filled up quickly. If we hadn't gotten there so early I don't think we would have gotten to check this place out! If you end up visiting Tales and Spirits on your journeys, please share a picture of the drink you ordered as many come with their own unique presentation. I would love to see the creative way they serve drinks we didn't order! Prost!

Taking a break to take in the scenery in Amalfi Let's face it, as much fun as it is to travel, it can be a lot for anyone. Flight delays or cancellations, weather struggles, hauling luggage from place to place, cranky travel partners...just being out of your normal environment, all of these things can exhaust you and interfere with your vacation enjoyment. Add to all of that a physical or health limitation and it makes things even more difficult. However, if you love to travel like I do, you don't want to miss out on seeing the world. The good news is you don't have to if you plan your trips taking into consideration your limitations and figuring out ways to work around the obstacles. This information is also valuable if you travel with someone with Lupus or some other health condition that may impact your plans. My Lupus Story I was diagnosed with Lupus in 2015. Lupus is a systematic autoimmune disease in which the body's defense system mistakenly attacks healthy organs and tissue in the body. It affects joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, lungs and sometimes even the heart and brain. I am fortunate that my Lupus has not been particularly aggressive, but I still struggle from time to time with flares of the disease. My flares are generally mild and include symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain. While sometimes flares just happen without any warning, there are certain things that will definitely trigger a flare. I have had flares on vacation and it is a huge bummer! I have learned through trial and error what things to avoid or watch out for. However, sometimes I like to forget I have to deal with limitations of Lupus and am not as careful. I always pay the price. Unfortunately, some of the things that can cause me to have a Lupus flare are things that are common with travel (stress, intense sun, lots of walking/activity). As eliminating travel from my life is not something I want to do, I have learned (and am still learning) what I need to do when I travel so that I don't ruin my trip or have a long recovery when I get home (as I just experienced upon returning from my most recent trip to Italy). These tips and recommendations would also be helpful to anyone dealing with any other type of autoimmune disease that involves flares of fatigue, muscle weakness and joint pain (which is most of them!). Lupus Travel Tips Make sure your travel companions understand your disease and your limitations. Let your travel companions know ahead of time about how you need to take care of yourself and what could happen if you don't. Also, let them know if you feel you are pushing your limits. This communication will make them more understanding when you need to take a break, need to bow out of an activity or start to not feel well. When I did the AMA Waterways Riverboat Cruise with my friends, I had to skip an excursion and went to bed early a few nights. They understood and were supportive because they wanted to me to feel good going forward! Don't push yourself too hard and do take frequent breaks. This ties into the first tip and is one that I have a hard time with. I am so excited to explore when I get to a new place that I like to go, go, go so I can fit everything in. Even though my girls were constantly checking in on me on our last trip to the Amalfi Coast, I kept saying I was fine and continued on full steam ahead. To be honest, I was hanging in there and doing ok, but I should know better and know that if I push myself too hard it is going to catch up with me. I did have a flare towards the end of the trip and also caught a virus on the way home that really got a hold of me because I had let my body get so run down. My immune system was shot and the virus wreaked havoc on me for a full month after I got back! Lesson learned (I hope), but it is easy to forget when you are excited to be traveling and exploring the world. It is important to pace yourself throughout the day and take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate. Schedule rest days in your itinerary. When planning your vacation itinerary, be sure to schedule rest days or relaxing activities after days that require more exertion or lots of time in the sun. I didn't do a great job at this on our last trip to Italy. It was a little more difficult as we were moving from spot to spot and so we tried to see and do as much as we could in each area. Looking back, there were a couple of very strenuous days in a row that required significant time in the intense sun. It was shortly after that I started feeling the beginning of a flare. If I had to do it over, I would have split those days up and scheduled something low key in between. Don't be afraid to sit out certain events. This one is hard, but sometimes necessary. If you aren't feeling great or if you have had a lot of sun exposure or exertion already, it is a good idea to stay back and take care of yourself. I am getting better at this and will definitely stay back at the hotel to take a nap or do something low key. I may have occasional bouts of FOMO, but it's better to choose when I want to miss out rather than being forced to miss much more if a major flare up happens because I didn't properly rest. Limit sun exposure and ALWAYS use sunscreen. Sun exposure can trigger Lupus flares. I have personally experienced many flares after too much sun. I used to love beach vacations, but those are a thing of the past for me. Multiple days with hours on the beach spell disaster for me and for most people with Lupus. However, even when you take different types of vacations exploring different parts of the world, it is easy to get caught out in the sun for extended periods. That is why it is important to always apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing regardless of your plans so you are always protected from intense UV rays. Again, this is a lesson I continue to learn. I often forget the sunscreen and don't properly anticipate the amount of sun exposure I will get when planning certain activities. It happened in Italy and I paid the price with a flare (which is why I skipped the beach day even though I had planned to sit under an umbrella). Learn from my mistakes and ALWAYS apply sunscreen in the morning before you head out and bring a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from excessive sun. But limiting sun exposure shouldn't stop you from doing fun things. You just need to adjust expectations and think of creative solutions. We really wanted to do a boat tour around Capri, so I just made sure to stay under the shade canopy on the boat most of the time and we had a blast! Rest a few days before your trip to conserve energy and go into vacation feeling rested. Often we are so busy and stressed trying to get ready to go on vacation, that we start out already in a deficit. If we are traveling to a different time zone, we may also be dealing with jet lag. Taking steps to conserve energy before you leave and having a plan to deal with anticipated jet lag will help you start out feeling energized rather than already fatigued before you even get started! Try to eat healthy, anti-inflammatory foods when you can to keep inflammation down (of course make sure to also enjoy ALL the local foods you want to try...you are on vacation after all!). Disclaimer: The food below is not necessarily anti-inflammatory, but it was certainly delicious! Bolognese from Chez Black in Positano and it was the best bolognese I've ever had! Pack all your medications for managing flares in your carry-on bag and bring extra in case of delays getting home. I have a once a week injection that needs to be refrigerated and would have to be cleared to travel with, so I generally don't take this with me. So far it hasn't caused me too much trouble skipping a dose while I am away. However, you should always talk with your doctor before deciding whether or not to skip medication when you are away. I have several other oral medications that I bring to ward off any joint pain or other frustrating symptoms. I always make sure to bring enough for the days I plan to be away plus extra in case I run into travel difficulties on my way home. Also, I ALWAYS put my medication in my carry-on bag so there are no problems if me and my checked luggage take different routes to our destination. Try to travel during off-peak times to reduce exposure to crowds and reduce time standing around to get into popular tourist sites. My favorite times to travel are the "shoulder" seasons...that travel period between peak and off-peak seasons. Generally this is in Spring and Fall which is why I mostly plan my big trips in May or September. Not only do I usually get lower rates but I still get the nice weather. And, most importantly (especially for this blog), the crowds are significantly reduced. As a person with a compromised immune system I try to avoid large crowds as much as possible (although it is not possible to avoid them all time) and reduce the extended waiting periods standing in the hot sun surrounded by hundreds of people. Aside from health benefits it also makes my trip much more enjoyable! Plan a day or two of complete rest once you get home. Unfortunately, my one or two days turned into a month after my last trip since I got so run down and got sick. Under normal conditions, I always plan to take a day or two to chill out when I get home so I can regroup and rest up before reentry into real life. Lupus (and other autoimmune conditions) can certainly impact how and where you travel, but a little planning and awareness of how you (or your travel companion) are feeling while you are on vacation can go a long way to preventing a flare! Hopefully these tips can help you stay energized and healthy as you explore the world. Maybe someday we will cross paths on our adventures! Cheers!

View from the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, all the big names pop up. Positano, Capri, Amalfi, Sorrento. Of course, all of these places are extraordinary and have their own unique beauty that cannot be missed while you are on the Amalfi Coast. But I want to let you in on a hidden gem we discovered on our trip. Ravello is a hilltop village sitting 1200 feet above the Mediterranean that offers a glimpse into thousands of years of history and some captivating views of the Amalfi Coast. Ravello turned out to be one of my favorite stops on our trip! Taking in the views from the Terrace of Infinity Getting to Ravello : Ravello is high above the coast so getting there requires some planning. There are three ways to get to Ravello: WALK: If you are really fit, you can walk (or basically climb stairs) from Amalfi. We chose to get transportation up to Ravello and walk back down to Atrani/Amalfi and I can report that even the downhill trek is challenging. There are A LOT of steps (apparently approximately 1700!) and steep decline so I can't imagine doing it the other way up to the top! But if you are looking for some intense exercise on your vacation you do have the option to walk to Ravello. BUS: We had hoped to take the bus up to Ravello as it is the cheapest and most convenient option. If the buses are operating, this is the option you should choose. A bus leaves from Amalfi about once an hour and the ride is about 20 minutes. Ticket prices are less than 2 Euro (either one way or round trip), but you may want to consider a Special Ticket which gives unlimited rides on the SITA buses around the coast for 24 hours from the time of first validation. If you are exploring several different areas this may be the best option for you. Check here for ticket options and pricing. Unfortunately, the day we wanted to go to Ravello, the buses weren't operating, so we had to take a taxi. TAXI: Taking a taxi to Ravello is the most expensive option and was even more expensive for us as the buses were not operating. The Italian taxi drivers took advantage of the limited transportation options and were charging 60 Euros for a one way trip up to Ravello! At first we declined and contemplated walking up (but on our trip down I realized that plan would have lasted about 5 minutes before we turned around because the uphill climb was too difficult!). I really, really wanted to visit Ravello based on my pre-trip research so I bit the bullet and paid the outrageous taxi fee. All I can say is I don't regret it! As I said, Ravello was one of my favorite stops of our trip so I am so glad we decided to go despite the transportation difficulties. If the buses are operating, the fare for a taxi ride up to Ravello would probably be a bit more reasonable so it is an option if riding a crowded bus up a twisting mountain road doesn't sound appealing to you. What to Do in Ravello: Walk Around the Piazza and Surrounding Streets: Ravello has lots to explore in an afternoon. We arrived mid-morning on a Sunday and it was very quiet. We grabbed some breakfast and sat in the Piazza Vescovado looking out over the mountainside with the historic Duomo as our backdrop. The Duomo, which was built in the 11th century, serves as the spiritual and social hub of Ravello. After our breakfast we walked around the streets of Ravello and took in historic architecture and browsed the beautiful ceramic shops. Commune with the Village Cats: One of our favorite things about Ravello was the number of village cats roaming around. We are cat lovers and were missing our kitties at home so this was a nice surprise. There was a black cat named Natari that is the official cat of Ravello and we were enchanted by her. We saw her actually jogging along side one of the residents of Ravello who told us of her official status. In addition to Natari, there were several other friendly cats and the girls had to stop and meet each one! Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone: Ravello is especially known for the beautiful villas and gardens that look out over the Mediterranean providing unbelievable views of the Amalfi Coast. There are two main villas that you should see on your visit to Ravello. Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are both incredible and provide completely different experiences so I highly recommend checking out both of them. Villa Rufolo sits right off the main Piazza. Villa Rufolo was built by a wealthy merchant family in the 13th century and at one time was one of the largest and most expensive villas on the Amalfi Coast. It's beautiful gardens are a popular attraction and Villa Rufolo is the host of annual summer concerts featuring piano concerts, chamber music and a grand orchestral performance on a stage jutting out over the Mediterranean Sea and the Amalfi Coast creating a breath-taking backdrop for the musical performance. Villa Rufolo opens at 9:00 am and tickets are €7. Depending on how long you linger it takes about an hour to walk through the Villa and the gardens. Villa Cimbrone is a short walk (about 10 minutes) from the main Piazza. Villa Cimbrone itself is private 5-star hotel, but tourists can (and should!) visit the Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Villa Cimbrone was built in the 11th century, but was extensively renovated by a British nobleman in the early 20th century. On the Garden grounds there is a crypt, cloister, various statues and other artwork, and the famous Terrace of Infinity where you can grab that Instagrammable photo! The Terrace of Infinity sits high above the coastline and is lined with white marble busts creating a unique and breathtaking spot to take in the views and grab a photo. The cost of admission to the Villa Cimbrone Gardens is €7 and again will probably take around an hour to explore the grounds. Grab a Bite to Eat: There are several places to eat in Ravello and I am sure they are all great. We stopped at Ristorante Villa Maria, a charming spot we passed on our way back from Villa Cimbrone. What a great find! The view from the terrace was spectacular, the food was excellent and the spritzes were refreshing. The perfect ending to our time in Ravelllo! Heading Back Down to Atrani: After our delicious lunch, we began the journey down to Atrani. It was downhill, but it was still challenging due to the steepness and the THOUSANDS of stairs. If your knees and stamina are up for it, I would still recommend it because the views were amazing! If you are in the mood for a more relaxing day, you can catch the bus or take a taxi back down. Here are some shots from our trip down to Atrani, a small fishing village right next to Amalfi. SIDE NOTE: If you are looking for some beach time, my girls highly recommend the Atrani beach. It is just a short walk from Amalfi and it was a lot less crowded. It was a free public beach, they just needed to bring towels. Don't Miss This Hidden Gem! A day in Ravello should definitely be on your itinerary. You will find a charming, historic village that will give you a break from the crowds at the more known Amalfi Coast spots, incredible views and a kitty fix if you are a cat lover! Ravello is a precious hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast so make sure you don't miss it!

Breeze Through Customs with MPC Long lines at the airport are usually the worst part of traveling, especially after an amazing international trip and a long flight home. The last thing you want to do when you land is wait in line at customs and immigration. On my last trip, I discovered a travel hack that allowed me to breeze past the long lines and get through customs in a matter of minutes. My secret? Mobile Passport Control (MPC)! MPC is an app that streamlines the entry process at certain designated US ports of entry. The app promises speed, convenience and ease. I personally experienced all three of these benefits. So, you are probably wondering how MPC works and if it is worth it to you to download the app. You may also be wondering how MPC differs from the Global Entry program you may have heard about. This blog will provide you with all the answers you need to make your next international trip a bit easier (at least at US customs and immigration). What is Mobile Passport Control (MPC)? Mobile Passport Control is an official app developed by US Customs and Border Protection that allows you to submit your passport information and customs declarations via your smartphone or tablet. This means you can skip completing the traditional paper customs form and bypass the regular inspection lines, entering the US faster. MPC is available for US ciitizens and Canadian visitors at select airports and seaports. The app is free to use and is different from Global Entry which requires an in-person interview and a membership fee. How Does MPC Work? The process for using MPC is straightforward and can be broken down into five easy steps: Download the App: The first step is to download the free CBP Mobile Passport Control app from the App Store or Google Play. Be sure your are downloading the official app by CBP to ensure the security of your data. Create a Profile: Open the MPC app and set up your profile. You will need to enter your passport details, including your full name, date of birth, passport number., issue date and expiration date. The MPC app stores this information securely for future trips. Submit Your Trip Details: When you land in the US, open the MPC app and select "New Trip." Here you will answer a few standard customs declaration questions similar to the paper forms you usually fill out on the plane. I actually filled out my New Trip information prior to arriving in the US, but was prompted to press the "Submit" button only after landing at my designated airport. As soon as I got off the plane, i connected to the airport wifi and pressed Submit. Within seconds, I received the QR Code discussed in the next step. Receive a QR Code: After submitting the details of your New Trip, the MPC app will generate a QR code. This code iwll serve as your digital customs declaation receipt. Show the QR Code at Customs: At designated MPC airport locations, there will be special lines or kiosks for Mobile Passport users. Simply show the QR code on your mobile device to the customs officer, along with your physical passport. T That's it! Easy Peasy...and you have breezed past all those people standing in line who don't know about this travel hack. You're welcome! Tips for Using MPC Make Sure Your App is Updated: Before your flight, check if you have the latest version of the MPC app. An outdated version might not work smoothly or might lack new features or updates. Keep Your Phone Charged: You don't want to reach customs only to find your phone has died. If your phone dies, you won't be able to access your QR code. In this case, you will have to go through the traditional customs process, which means standing in the long line. Make sure your have your charger or portable battery handy! Check Airport Eligibility: Not all US airports and seaports support MPC. Before your trip, visit the CBP website to confirm that your arrival airport accepts MPC. Have Your Physical Passport Handy: While the MPC app helps expedite the declaration process, you still need to present your physical passport to the customs officer. Traveling with Family: If you are traveling with your family, you simply add family members to your profile and submit all declarations together. It is a convenient option for families traveling with kids. How Does MPC Compare to Global Entry? You may be wondering how MPC compares to the popular Global Entry program. Both MPC and Global Entry offer expedited entry, but they cater to different travelers. Global Entry involves a more extensive vetting process and offers additional benefits like TSA PreCheck. To benefit from Global Entry, you must pay a fee and perform an in-person interview. MPC, on the other hand, is free and doesn't require any background checks. However, MPC only speeds up entry at those select airports that support MPC. Global Entry is accepted at all US airports. If you are a frequent intrenational traveler, the investment in Global Entry is probably worth it. However, MPC offers those who travel less frequently an opportunity to avoid those long custom lines as well. I would check the list of airports that support the MPC process and if your nearest airport is on the list, MPC is a great (and FREE!) option to save some time at customs and breeze through the entry process. Final Thoughts International travel can be stressful enough; don't let the post-flight bottleneck slow you down. Take a few minutes to download the MPC app and create your profile. Then when you arrive at your US destination, you can skip those dreaded long customs lines and be on your way in no time!

My latest travel group on a trip to Spain! If you love to travel, odds are you have at least thought about taking a group trip. If you haven't, you may after reading this blog! I have now taken a few group trips with different companies (Go Ahead Tours, AMA Waterways and Gate 1) and all were amazing experiences. There are a lot of advantages to signing up for an organized group trip, but there are some disadvantages that you should consider before making your final decision. Based on my experience, here are the things that I love about group travel and those that can be a bit frustrating. Let's start with the positives (which definitely are more numerous). PROS: All you have to do is pay and show up. Each travel company offers a variety of itineraries to locations all over the world. The hardest part will be deciding which triip you want to take. Start by deciding where you want to visit and how long you want to be away. That helps narrow down your choices. But once you land on an itinerary that meets your travel dreams, all you have to do is sign up, pay and show up! The company takes care of everyting else from accommodations, transportation, tours, and some meals. They arrange amazing tours with local tour guides who provide so much history and inside information. A local tour guide giving our group a tour of the historic city of Toledo, Spain. They transport your luggage from place to place! This is a HUGE Pro for me. If you follow me regularly, you know packing is not one of my strengths and I always end up with a fully stuffed large suitcase. It is such a benefit to just show up to my hotel room and my large luggage is already there waiting for me. When I am traveling on my own I struggle and sweat getting that bad boy up and down stairs and to the next location. This Pro alone is almost enough to outweigh any of the Cons I list below! My LARGE suitcase that magically arrives in my room on group trips. You have built in travel companions. If you are single, but are wary about travelling solo (or maybe you want to change it up after a few independent trips), a group trip is a perfect solution for you! This last group trip I went on I was with friends I already knew, but the first group trip I took I was by myself. It was my first "solo" trip and it was great to have people to eat with and explore with. But there is usually a good amount of free time built into the schedules so I could also take some time to myself to relax or do some independent sightseeing. It is a great way to meet new people. Similar to the point above, it is so fun to meet all the different people that sign up for these trips. My travel groups have had people of all ages from different locations with diverse personalities. I have met people traveling with their adult children, friends traveling together, couples and other solo travelers. It is amazing how quickly you can get to know people when you are sharing the adventure of exploring the world. By the end of the trip you realize that you will miss seeing this group of people every day! We expanded our friend group on this trip! You end up seeing locations you may not have considered if you planned your trip yourself. On every single group trip I have taken, we stopped in locations that I would not have thought to include in my itinerary. Many of these places turned out to be my favorite stops! One of my all time favorites was Annecy, France. I had never heard of it before and it was so quaint and beautiful. I loved it so much I have considered temporarily moving there and would have never have discovered it if I hadn't been on the group trip through the Alps. On my most recent trip to Spain on of my favorite spots was Ronda, a small town sitting on the top of a gorge and home to one of the oldest bullfighting rings. Exploring Ronda, a place I didn't know about! Experienced and knowledgable tour guides. The tour guides that lead the trips are multi-lingual eliminating some of the language barriers that can arise when you travel internationally. They are very knowledgable about the areas that you are visiting and provide you with relevant history and facts about each location. I feel like I learn so much more about the areas I am visiting when I go on a group trip than when I am traveling on my own. The guides are also great resources for local hotspots to visit when you have free time to go off on your own for a bit. Additionally, should an emergency arise while you are travelling the guides can assist with getting the resources you need. On my most recent trip one of the passengers cracked her tooth and our guide was able to get her to a local dentist to take care of it with minimal interruption. Our amazing guide, Rui, with the ladies CONS: Less flexibility. One downside to a group trip is that you have less control over your itinerary. While most group trips do build in a decent amount of free time for you to go off and explore on your own, it is still on strict schedule that is part of a larger itinerary. This aspect can be a bit frustrating if you find you don't have enough time to fit in all the things you might want to explore or if the time allotted for "free time" doesn't match up with plans you want to make. Limited food options sometimes. If you are a picky eater, the group trips can be challenging. On group dinners, the whole group usually gets the same dish (a local favorite). As a picky eater, this has been difficult for me. I told myself I must always try what is offered, but often it is not something I really enjoy. This is totally a ME problem and I really wish I was a more adventurous eater eager to try local specialties. Unfortunately that is not the case so I usually end up leaving meals a bit hungry. I always make sure to pack some snacks so I have something to eat when I get back to my room. Potential for unpleasant group dynamics. I have not had this problem in any of the group trips I have done. However, as you don't have control over who is in your travel group, there is always the possibility that personalities in the group don't mesh. Hopefully you will be as lucky as I have been and will enjoy your travel companions. As you can see, the pros of going on a group triip seem to outweigh the cons. However, I would say that the lack of flexibility may be the biggest factor to consider if you have specific ideas of what you want to do on your vacation. I have had amazing experiences on all my group trips and I highly recommend that you give group travel a try. I can personally recommend Go Ahead, AMA Waterways and Gate 1 Travel. Check them out...you will not regret it. A satisfied and happy group traveler

Cheers to Life Lessons Learned Over 60 Years I turned 60 last September. Sixty. The big 6-0. Wow...I remember when 60 sounded ancient. It was the age of grandparents, the ones with hard candy in their purses and stories that began with "Back in my day...". But here I am, 60 years into this life, and surprisingly I don't feel ancient (at least on most days). My mind still feels like I'm in my 30s, until I look in the mirror and a more seasoned face is looking back at me. While there are some difficulties that come with aging, the one thing I love about getting older is I feel like I am definitely getting wiser. Over the past 60 years of trials and tribulations, lessons were learned and wisdom was gained. Some lessons were painful, others just inconvienent, but all resulted in growth and self-reflection. The ups and downs of 60 years have led me to some core principles that I TRY to live by for a more peaceful and happy life. I have by no means mastered the ability to live by these principles 100% of the time, but they provide the guidelines and boundaries for my approach to life. When I find myself veering from these principles I can always tell because I feel less happy, less peaceful. At this point in my life, time is too precious to waste too much of it being upset or stressed. I am sharing these thoughts in the event the wisdom gained from my 60 years may be helpful to anyone else, but also to remind myself of how I want to live the rest of my life. Ride the Waves Waves Can Teach Us How to Live The only constant in life is change. One thing that becomes abuntantly clear as the years go by is that things are always changing and evolving. I used to get so frustrated when something happened that wasn't what I planned (as if I could control the whole universe with my plans). Such disruptions would cause me to stress out and get angry and subject those around me to my frustrations (probably not too enjoyable). Getting into that mental state was usually not helpful to resolve the issue or figure out an alternative plan. It led to a constant pendulum of emotions as we all know that life does not generally run smoothly and annoyances (large or small) impact us everyday. . Accepting that a situation, whether good or bad, is temporary and will not stay the same is an important life lesson. It helps with resilience in getting through a tough period because I realize that 'this too shall pass'. It helps with living in the present because if I am in a good period I know I need to appreciate it and enjoy it because 'this too shall pass'. Learning to adapt to change, both in the way I perceive it and the way I react to it, has lead to growth, resilience and new opportunities. Change has often been the catalyst for personal or professional growth that has occurred in my life. I compare adjusting and adapting to the ups and downs in life to being in the ocean on a boogie board. You paddle out into the water, which can take effort. You find a spot where the water is calm and you hang out there for a bit. As the waves roll in, you just hang on to your board and let it roll by as it lifts you up and then delivers you back down. Then along comes an epic wave that picks you up and takes you on an exhilirating ride toward the shore. You just enjoy the experience, laughing as you ride it as far as you can. Then it is over as quickly as it began and the wave drops you off on the shore as it rolls back out to sea and you paddle back out and wait for the next epic wave. I can see this wave action when I look back over the various stages and periods I have experienced in my life. There were the hard paddling times, the calm almost boring times where life was just uneventfully moving forward, the waves that rolled over me that I just had to ride out, and those amazing epic waves that came with life accomplishments and adventures. Every part of the wave is important in creating the whole experience. Keep Your Balance Balance is Key The key to keeping your balance is knowing when you've lost it. -Anonymous In keeping with the boogie board theme, the next life lesson I have learned over my 60 years is that finding balance is very important. If you are on a boogie board or a surf board and you are not perfectly balanced on the board, you will fall off and miss riding that epic wave. In my life, achieving balance in all things is the ultimate goal. I have always been good at keeping my work life and personal life balanced. I learned this from my father who always stated he worked to live, not lived to work. My dad worked hard when he was at work, but made sure to be home for dinner every night and used his weekends to ski, ride his dirt bike or his bicycle. I found a way to practice law that allowed me to be around for my girls and attend all of their athletic activities. Could I have worked harder and went further in my career? Sure, but I found a balance between my professional career and my home life that allowed me to be proud of my accomplishments in both. I use this approach in other areas of my life as well. Going out or staying home, working out or resting, eating and drinking, the principle always applies. Balance (or you could say moderation) in all things helps me to enjoy things, but not to the exclusion of other things. It is very apparent when I have lost balance because I feel tired, I feel stressed, I feel generally unwell. It is a sign that I need to make adjustments to my choices to regain the balance that brings me peace. Be Curious Staying Curious By Exploring New Places I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious. -Albert Einstein Over the years I've learned the importance of being curious. Being curious helps to stay knowledgable and understand the world around me. By asking questions I engage more deeply which makes learning an ongoing process rather than a finite experience. By remaining curious, I constantly challenge my own perspectives and try to expand my world view. Curiosity also improves creativity. Looking at a situation from multiple angles allows me to consider innovative approaches to resolve an issue (or maybe realize it's not a problem at all!). Curiosity is also helpful to keep the mind sharp. Making myself learn new things (you really can teach an old dog new tricks), keeps the neuro pathways working and hopefully will ward off mental decline as I age. Learning how to create this blog and keep it growing; starting a new job at a jewelry store learning about gemstones, metals and designers; and learning how to play pickleball (especially how to keep score!) have all kept me on my toes as I keep racking up the years. I also watch documentaries on a wide range of topics. Some that I watch are VERY random, but I always learn something new. It is now a joke among my friends and family that I often start a sentence with "I was watching a documentary about *fill in the blank". But perhaps most important, being curious has improved my relationships. Instead of jumping to conclusions or digging into my position, I try to ask more questions and genuinely seek to understand others’ perspectives. I have discovered that when I take the time to be curious it results in deeper connections. It also encourages better conversations which often lead to mutual understanding. Being curious allows me to appreciate diverse viewpoints, even if I may not completely agree. Being curious definitely makes life much more interesting! Keep Your Sense of Humor Keep Laughing and Finding the Humor A sense of humor is a major defense against minor troubles - Mignon McLaughlin Stress is inevitable...whether its a bad day at work, a disagreement with a friend or partner, or simply being stuck in traffic after a long day when you just want to get home. But if you can somehow learn to find the humor in some of these every day complications, it makes things a lot easier. One thing my ex-husband was very good at during our marriage, was getting me to laugh when my stress or anger started to bubble up. It is amazing how quickly difficult emotions diffuse once I give into giggling or divert my attention to something amusing. Not that I am not still frustrated or annoyed, but the laughter takes the emotion level down a few notches so things are easier to deal with. Sometimes the only difference between a crisis and a funny story is time AND the ability to laugh at myself. Once I can zoom out and see that the thing I am stressing over really isn't that big of a deal or is only temporary, it doesn't loom so large. Putting it in perspective usually makes me realize how dramatic I am being and I can make fun of myself for overreacting. So often stories from my past that were so stressful or embarrassing at the time are hilarious (or at least entertaining) now. Laughing at my flaws and screw ups makes life seem less like a challenge and more like a fun-filled adventure. Being able to get back up, maybe a bit bruised and still limping, but with a smile on my face is an act of quiet defiance against the chaos. When I can find something to laugh about, even in my hardest moments, I feel like I regain a little bit of control. Trust Your Gut When I Trusted My Gut Instinct to Buy a House and Miraculously Found the Perfect Lot! Follow your instincts. That's where true wisdom manifests itself. - Oprah Winfrey As I look back on my life and the twists and turns that make up my journey, I can see the importance of trusting my gut instincts. This applies to both positive and negative instincts. It's that quiet voice in my head, often uninvited but always persistent, that says " Something's off" or " This is the right move". It doesn't always speak in words...sometimes it is a tightness in my throat or my chest or a feeling of calm that washes over me when I make a decision. Regardless, I have learned that my gut is powerful and its instincts are rooted in my lived experiences, observations, memories and even deeply buried emotions. Some of the biggest changes in my life have followed an instinct that has led me to major decisions. Strong feelings led me to move to San Diego with friends, apply to law school, move to the East Coast from Colorado, relocate to Saratoga Springs and buy/build a house. When I leaned into these inklings, everything else fell into place relatively easilydes. I never questioned decisions based on my gut instincts and have never regretted them. In fact, they were literally some of the best decisions in my life even though they might have seemed crazy to others at the time. I also learned to trust those gut instincts when they are giving me a clear warning signal of what to avoid. When I feel uneasy about a situation, a person or a vibe, I no longer ignore it. I have learned over the years that experience has allowed me to recognize those red flags waving in the background. I understand that I need to honor my peace and remove myself. My gut is my inner compass signaling that I am not moving in a direction that is true to me. Trusting my instincts isn't just about avoiding danger, but about staying in alignment with myself. Trusting these instincts doesn't mean my gut is always right (but it does have a pretty good track record!), but it does mean it deserves to be heard. People haven't always understood some of my crazier instincts and sometimes question my choices. They may ask for explanations that I can't exactly give. Sometimes " I just know" is enough for me. Intention Matters Living My Intention to See the World Intentional living is about living your best story. - John C. Maxwell As we go through life, it pulls us in a thousand different directions. Between working, raising a family, doing all the things to stay healthy and active, day to day responsibilities, trying to stay in touch with friends and extended family...the list goes on...we can lose focus on how we want to live our life and just go on autopilot getting through each day. I often compare it to that circus trick where the circus performer has a bunch of plates spinning on poles. He gets them all going and as soon as he gets to the last one, others are starting to wobble. As he turns his attention to the wobbling plate and gets it going again, the other plates he wasn't focusing on begin to wobble. It is a never ending task and there is never time to pause to enjoy the accomplishment of getting all the plates spinning, it's just about frantically running from plate to plate to keep them all going. When living this way, life becomes more reactive than reflective. We are doing what we HAVE to do instead of what we necessarily WANT to do. Obviously when you are in the thick of your career and raising kids, this is sometimes just what is required. However, we get so used to living like this, we continue on this path even when things slow down. Unfortunately for me, once things slowed down I was left with a broken marriage, an autoimmune disease, and a lay off from my job despite all my years of hard work. After I picked myself up and brushed myself off (with a smile on my face per my advice above), I realized I needed to be more intentional about my life. I needed to not just go through the motions, but know why I'm doing what I'm doing. Whether deciding how to spend my time, who I choose to spend time with, what things I give my energy to, I needed intention to add purpose to every choice. Not everything deserves my attention, not every invitation is meant for me. I have learned to say no to things that don't align with my intentions for what I want in my life and say yes with full intention to things things that will add value to my life or support those things that are important to me. Living with intention doesn't guarantee a perfect life, but it helps me live a conscious one. I make decisions based on what feels true to me. That generally leads to less regret. I still stumble or occasionally make a decision that I am eventually unhappy with, but I know I chose deliberately and not by default. I try to make sure my choices are guided by questions like " What kind of person do I want to be?" or " What kind of life do I want to create?". These guidelines help me make thoughtful choices that lead me closer to the vision I have for my life journey. Stay In Your Lane Learning to Stay in My Own Lane Once you create your own lane, there's no traffic. - Pitbull One thing I have learned in 60 years of living is that it is exhausting trying to control everyone and everythng around you. In all honesty, I am a control freak at heart and used to spend a lot of time thinking about what everyone else was doing and inserting my opinion about what I thought was the best plan of action. I came to realize that what I really wanted to do was control my own environment and how I was impacted by others' choices. I wanted to maintain my peace. The beauty of that realization is that I can control my own environment! I just can't do it by trying to control others and what they were doing. I can only do it by making choices for myself that are in alignment with my values and reacting to others' actions by making my own choices in response. Worrying about what everyone else is doing is draining and leaves less energy to focus on my own life. Obviously, when my children were younger it was my job to worry about what they were doing and guide them in their decisions as they grew up and learned to be an adult. But even with my children, since they are now adults it is no longer my job (or my right) to dictate what they should or should not be doing in their life. Every person is on their own journey and they are the captain of their own ship. All I need to do is focus on MY journey and MY growth...essentially STAY IN MY OWN LANE. When I stay in my own lane and quit worrying about what others are doing (and whether they are doing it the way I would), my world gets peaceful and quiet. My mind isn't filled with thoughts about what I wish someone else would do or what actions I think they should take. That is not my business. It is essentially the "Let Them" theory that Mel Robbins talks about. I let the people in my life direct their journey to have the experiences they want to have. For example, I was sad when my oldest daughter, Madison, decided to move far away from me to go back to Colorado (where she was born and where my family still lives). But that is a life experience SHE wants to have and I don't get a vote. Just like my parents didn't try to control my decisions when I moved away from Colorado to San Diego and then moved away again years later to New York (this time with their grandchildren in tow). I know they were sad about the distance, but I was given the freedom to take my life where I wanted to. I want to give my children that same gift This practice is not as easy as it seems. It is so easy to jump in when someone is talking and start giving advice (even if it wasn't asked for) because I know what I would do if I was in the same situation. But realizing we are different people, with different priorities, different personalities, different history, and different intentions for our life journeys makes it easier to take a step back and just listen. Sometimes people just want a sounding board as they figure out what they want to do on their own. It is actually a relief to understand that you don't have to solve their problem, you just have to be there for them. Staying in your own lane is addictive once you get used to it! It takes the weight of the world off your shoulders when you realize you don't have to carry the weight of the world! Conclusion As I said, I am still practicing following these lessons that I have learned. Habits developed over 60 years die hard. But when I do follow these principles, I find my life flows easier, it is more peaceful and I am a generally happier person. I am sure the years ahead will give me even more wisdom as I try to age gracefully. Instead of being sad about my loss of youth, I am trying to appreciate the lessons learned, the memories made and the adventures along the way.

A Variety of Winter Cocktails Served Up at Lucy's Bar Whether you are planning a trip to Saratoga Springs to enjoy Saratoga's regular horse racing season or just to experience the charm and history of this quaint little city, you will probably want to know the best places to grab a refreshing beverage while you are here. Saratoga Springs has no shortage of great places to get your drink on. Whether you are looking for a place to let your hair down and get crazy or prefer a more distinguished cocktail sipping experience, we've got you covered. The places to get wild and crazy in Saratoga are pretty obvious...just head to Caroline Street. But if you are looking to try some unique craft cocktails, you need the inside scoop. I have personally checked out a number of local establishments (all for the blog, of course!) and have found my favorite spots for sipping crafted concoctions. Please note each destination offers a good selection of non-alcoholic cocktails for the non-drinkers in your party. So, without further ado, here are my picks for best cocktails in Saratoga Springs, in no particular order: Lucy's Bar (3 Caroline Street): Enjoying a Cocktail at Lucy's Bar...Spy the Spring Decor in the Entry I could not have a list of the best cocktail bars in Saratoga Springs and not include Lucy's Bar! I am a regular patron of Lucy's Bar for a number of reasons. I love the variety of their cocktail menu that changes every season. I love the cozy vibe of the bar and I especially love their amazing Insta-worthy decor that changes each holiday/season. Their Christmas decor is my favorite, but I also love the Spring decor that comes just as you are getting weary of the winter weather. Lucy's motto is "Good Vibes, Better Drinks and a Little Thing We Like to Call 'A Lucy'". That tells you everything you need to know! Lucy's is a great place to meet up for a cocktail before you head out to dinner or out on the town. Lucy's does not serve food so plan to eat before or after stopping in for a drink. Lucy's Bar is small and has limited seating so I recommend meeting up on the early side if you want to snag a table. My favorite drinks so far are the Sweater Weather (Winter Menu) and the Pistachio Martini (last Spring's Menu). I can't wait for next season's new cocktail menu to see what new libations they have come up with! They have a Spirit Free Cocktail menu for the non-drinkers in the group which includes a non-alcoholic Espresso Martini. I have tried it and it is just as good as a fully loaded Espresso Martini! Check out their full drink menu here. Sweater Weather Cocktail..Spy the Christmas Decor on the Ceiling Hamlet and Ghost (24 Caroline Street): Hamlet and Ghost is located in downtown Saratoga Springs in a space that used to be a feed and grain store in the 1870's. It became a hardware store during the Prohibition Era that was an alleged front for an illegal gambling establishment. The current restaurant maintains that historic feel complete with a full menu of interesting craft cocktails. Hamlet and Ghost does serve food as well. In fact, their Hamburger has been rated the best in Saratoga! As far as cocktails go, there are several delicious choices on the menu, but my favorite (and a H&G classic) is the Gin Gin Fizz made with gin, grapefruit, lemon, ginger and foam. Again, Hamlet & Ghost offers a good selection of mocktails as well. If you want to visit Hamlet and Ghost, reservations are necessary. And you need to be a planner because Hamlet and Ghost books up pretty quickly, especially during track season. So, if you know you are going to be in town and want to taste Saratoga's best burger and sip a delicious craft cocktail, be sure to make your reservation as soon as you can. Click here for a link to the reservation system. Morrissey's Lounge and Bistro (365 Broadway): Morrissey's Lounge and Bistro is attached to the historic Adelphi Hotel and has that rich, historic vibe. There are tables to sit at, but the best seats in the house are at the bar! Especially during track season, it is fun to set at the bar and watch as people filter in and out of the bar after a day at the track. Even when it is not track season there is great people watching to be had as people stroll up and down Broadway. Morrissey's offers a wide selection of curated cocktails (and mocktails). You can also order food at Morrissey's. They have a diverse menu that includes salads, seafood, pasta, flatbreads and sushi. Check out all of their food and drink options here. You can make reservations for a table, or order food at your seat at the bar. Morrissey's is definitely the go to spot to see and be seen during track season. It usually dies down around 8 as people leave for dinner reservations at other restaurants. So, if you want the crowd and people watching, go before 8; if you want a quieter spot to grab a drink and some food, better to go after 8ish. Rhea (389 Broadway): Rhea is an Asian inspired restaurant and bar located right on Broadway. You can sit at an outside table (weather permitting), at the bar right in the middle of the restaurant or in a cozy booth if you want a more intimate experience. You can eat dinner or grab appetizers with your drinks at Rhea. Their menu is planned around hand-made ramen noodles, Bao buns and shareable small plate items. Check out the food menu here. Their drink menu describes "wildly inventive" cocktails with creative names like "Why is the Rum Always Gone", "Dunes of the Cape" and "Hot Paradise". They also offer Saké Drafts if you prefer. Check out their drink menu here. Their menu notes that any drink can be made as a mocktail. Yummy Craft Cocktails at Rhea The Misfit Bar and Cocktail Lounge (1 Caroline St.): The Misfit is more of a nightclub scene and they do not serve any food. This is the spot to head to when you are ready to let loose for the night. After a cocktail (or two), you can meander to any of the other happening spots up and down Caroline Street. The Misfit has a long list of standard craft cocktails with hilarious names like "Bougie Bitch", "Naughty Nurse" and "Dazed and Confused". They offer special seasonal cocktails as well. The winter cocktail menu is filled with drinks with names like "Drop It Like It's Hot" and "We Didn't Start the Fire". They also have a delicious Espresso Martini that is one of the best in town (in my personal opinion). SIDE NOTE: Another top contender for best Espresso Martini in Saratoga is 9 Maple, but the reason it is not on my favorite list is that 9 Maple is really small and always so crowded. But if you enjoy Espresso Martinis definitely check it out because they are really good there too. The Best Espresso Martini at The Misfit Cantina (408 Broadway): Cantina is located right on Broadway (Saratoga's main street) and they serve "fresh contemporary Mexican and Southwest food". They have a full cocktail menu with various cocktails, wine, seltzers, beer (including a selection of craft beers), tequila and mezal. But their claim to fame is ther extensive selection of margaritas. Check out the margarita extravaganza here. My personal favorite is the Coconut margarita that has a sugar rim. So delicious and I recommend it to anyone who will listen. Cantina is a great place to grab some food, but you may have to wait for a table during busy season. No worries though, Cantina has an amazing rooftop bar where you can go to grab one of those aforementioned margaritas while you wait for your table. There is no food served on the rooftop, just drinks. Cheers to My Favorite...Cantina's Coconut Margarita Bottom's Up So there you have it. My favorite spots to grab a cocktail. There are many other great places to grab a drink in Saratoga Springs. Just wander around and you will find plenty of spots to wet your whistle. But this list has my favorites as a local, so be sure to try them out. Cheers!

About 12 miles away from the bustling Saratoga Springs area, nestled in amongst trees reaching for the sky, is a wonderful little place called Brookledge. I discovered Brookledge after connecting with one of its owners, Helen Christopher, on social media. I started following her on Instagram and was intrigued by the development of this new business she and her husband Ryan were starting. What Is Brookledge? Then... Brookledge is approximately 60 acres of undeveloped property in the small town of Providence, just outside of Saratoga Springs. The property has a storied and interesting history. In the 1800's, German families from NYC headed north to cabins built on the property for a much needed getaway from the crowded City. None of those cabins remain, but there is an old stone fireplace with what is believed to be a monogram of a German family on the mantel that still stands representing this chapter of the property's history. Sometime thereafter, the property was sold and was used as one of the original Camp Fire Girls' camps and then subsequently used by Schenectady Girl's Club (now Girl's Inc) as a girl's summer camp. Many of the original buildings from the property's summer camp days remain standing including original sleeping cabins, bath houses, dressing cabins, the nurse's office, the camp counselor office and the outdoor pavilion. You can still see carvings and artwork done by the girls around the property. Many of the hiking trails on the property were original trails used by the girl's during the camping days. Now... The Christophers' first saw the Brookledge property a decade ago when attending a wedding on the grounds of the now abandoned camp. Something about the property spoke to them and they agreed if it ever went on the market they would buy it. It ultimately was sold to a real estate developer who planned to tear down all the buildings and create an RV park. That deal fell through and the Christophers had their opportunity to buy their dream property. Helen quit her job as a second grade teacher to focus full-time on renovating the property and restoring it to its past glory as a magical nature getaway. They have maintained the original Brookledge name and intend to preserve as much history as they can by utilizing the existing structures and incorporating original items found in the buildings or around the property wherever they can. They also have made it a priority during the renovation to source local materials and labor where possible. They continue that mission in the operation of the camp by sourcing supplies and food from local vendor if they can. You can feel the energy of the property coming back to life when you visit. The vision for Brookledge is to provide a nature retreat that can be used as a wedding venue, event space (corporate events, birthday parties, family reunions or other celebrations), or getaways. They have made great progress and have already completed renovation on a couple of the cabins that were available for booking last summer. But the Christophers have big plans for the property and are working through the winter to make Brookledge even more special in time for next summer and the Saratoga racing season! What Kind of Experience Will You Get at Brookledge? Whether you are looking for a rustic but classy space for a special event or a cozy and comfortable retreat from suburbia or city life, Brookledge has what you are looking for! The natural beauty of the surroundings makes any experience magical. We are not a 5 star luxury hotel, we are a 5 tree happy to be in nature getaway! Spaces for Weddings and Events: The Chapel: Brookledge has already hosted a few weddings at its site and the pictures show what an amazing setting it is for such a special day. There are wedding packages available , but they will also work with brides to help them create the day they have been dreaming of. Generally weddings are held in the open space in front of the stone fireplace (pictured above) in an area they call The Chapel. The plan is to even out the terrain, install permanent benches for guests and build a wooden walkway to the site (so the bride's dresses don't get dirty on the walk down the aisle). They also are able to provide transport to the wedding site to those guests who may have mobility issues. Fireside Pavilion and Raymond's Roost: The Fireside Pavilion and the nearby Raymond's Roost bar pavilion accommodate a large number of people for a wedding reception, family reunion, corporate event or other large gathering. As its name implies, the Fireside Pavilion has a stone fireplace that was original to the structure from the girl's camp days. The smaller Raymond's Roost Pavilion is a few steps away and has bar seating. The Fireside Pavilion can also be used to host children's birthday party events. Brookledge has a daytime birthday party package that includes a guided nature hike, swimming, arts and crafts, a scavenger hunt and campfire s'mores for up to 20 guests! There is also a sleepover package if you want to continue the celebration fun through the night. The sleepover package includes all the activities in the daytime party package plus an outdoor movie in the Pavilion for 6 to 10 guests. You can add on party enhancements such as picnic basket meals, a taco bar, make your own trail mix activity and birthday cakes. Prices for various party packages can be found here . Ice Bucket Pond: On the property, right next to the Pavilions (and in front of the Crook Brook Cabin) is a small pond called the Ice Bucket. The Ice Bucket is a spring fed and is 10 feet deep. The name should give you a hint about the water temp! The Pond can be used during birthday parties and special events or if you are a guest staying on the property. There are canoes and a floating dock which can be used to relax while floating around the pond (although I think kids use it as a moving diving platform!). They are trying to restore the ecosystem in the Ice Bucket Pond so they installed a fountain to discourage algae growth and plan to restock the pond with native fish. Overnight Stays: If you want to extend your stay in nature, Brookledge has several options to accommodate many comfort levels. A recent guest told Helen that Brookledge was the perfect solution for a weekend getaway for her and her husband and he wanted to be out in nature, but she is more of a luxury hotel kind of girl. She found Brookledge to be the perfect compromise because he could be out exploring and communing with nature while she relaxed in the beautifully decorated cabin with her book and a glass of wine! The accommodations may or may not have running water, heat and do not have bathrooms or showers, so you definitely still feel like your are "roughing it" even while enjoying comfortable beds and lodging. If you are interested in reserving any of the available accommodations you can do so on Airbnb or VRBO. Crook Brook Cabin: Crook Brook Cabin is a rustic cabin located right next to the Pavilions and sits up from the Ice Bucket Pond. It comfortably accommodates 4 people with the custom made queen bunk bed. The cabin includes linens, dishes, a sink with hot water, a ceiling fan, a grill, a microwave and a mini fridge. There is a TV that is equipped with a working VCR so you can really experience a time warp and watch some VHS movies. There are no bathrooms or showers in the cabin, but outhouses and bath houses with restored showers from the original camp are a close walking distance. The Crook Brook Cabin has a distinct 70's vibe which was intentionally done to reflect the property's girl's camp history in the 1970s. The VCR/VHS tapes, brown and gold patterned stoneware dishes, art work made by the girls when the camp was operational which was recovered from the cabins, and the childhood favorite boardgames that can be played out on the patio in the evening all contribute to a magical childhood throwback feeling that mixes perfectly with the outdoor environment. The Cottage: While I loved the Crook Brook Cabin, I have to admit the Cottage blew me away. The Cottage is a little more remote making it perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat. It sits high above the babbling Crook Brook Creek on top of large boulders giving it fantastic views from the balcony. The inside has been impeccably renovated and tastefully decorated by Helen. The remote controlled candle lighting provides a relaxing vibe. There is an outhouse right outside the door, but the bath house for showers is a bit of a walk. The stroll down to the bath house is beautiful, so I don't think any one really minds. There is no electricity, but there is a large battery charger that accommodates cell phone chargers and plugs so you won't be stranded. There is a portable heater to keep you warm as the temperatures drop at night. Outside on the balcony there are rocking chairs looking out over the Creek and the forest. Down the steps there is a campfire spot with several chairs. A few steps away, a hammock hangs from two trees right next to the Creek creating a perfect nap spot. I'm not a girl who generally likes to rough it, but I would definitely be excited to stay in this cozy Cottage! Glamping Tents: They weren't ready last summer, but next summer Brookledge will offer a new experience! They have built two platforms for large tents that will provide guests a glamping opportunity. The tents will be available to reserve from April to November. The tents will be located steps from the Ice Bucket Pond in an open area where the girls used to have their camp singalongs. The two tents will be named "Woodstock" and "Snoopy" paying homage to the names of the camp buses used to transport the girls to camp from Schenectady back in the day! Love that! The tents will be placed on wooden platforms lifting them off the ground and I am sure Helen will have them outfitted in perfect "glamping" style when they open next spring. Tree House Lodge: The Tree House Lodge is currently being renovated so I don't have any current pictures, but by next summer it will be available for short term rental or for events. There will be a large living space with a room that will sleep two. There will be stairs up to a loft area (hence the "Tree House" name) that will be geared towards children with books and toys. Once it if finished and available for reserving, the website will contain more information about the specific accommodations. Don't Miss This Hidden Gem! Check out the Brookledge website here for more details about this special place. If you have a special event coming up, I would highly recommend considering this venue. The natural beauty is breathtaking and the care and attention the Christophers are giving to retain the spirit and history of the place makes it even more special. Brookledge is already amazing and they are just getting started. I can't wait to see what else they do with this property and watch their dream come to life! I plan to return in the Spring to see the progress and to update you all on what you can expect if you visit Brookledge next spring/summer

Are you thinking of planning a girl's getaway but aren't sure where you should go? I highly recommend an AMA Waterways Riverboat Cruise! I just got back from one with my friends and it was the "best trip ever" in the words of my friend Christina. We took the Enchanting Rhine wine cruise that started in Basel, Switzerland and ended in Amsterdam. For a whole week we were treated like queens, drinking fine wine and delicious cocktails and eating delicious chef-prepared meals. We felt very spoiled but kept reminding ourselves that we deserved the pampering after caring for so many others for most of our lives. There were other girl's groups on the cruise including a mother-daughter group, sister groups and other friend groups like us. We all got to know each other and had a fabulous time! The Destinations AMA Waterways has a number of cruises all over the world. Check out all of AMA Waterways cruise options here . We had a hard time choosing which cruise to take because they all sounded amazing! Honestly, it came down to which trip worked best with our schedule. As I noted above, we chose to go on the Enchanting Rhine cruise that started in Basel and ended in Amsterdam with several stops along the way. Our cruise stopped at ports in these locations: Breisach, Germany Strasbourg, France Ludwigshafen, Germany Rüdesheim, Germany Lahnstein, Germany Cologne, Germany At each stop we had the opportunity to get off the ship and take part in excursions in the surrounding area. These excursions are included in the price of your cruise and are not additional cost to you. At each stop there are several different types of excursions to choose from. We could determine how we wanted to experience each stop along the way. The Excursions In addition to having several different types of excursions to choose from, there are also different activity levels offered for each excursion. If you want a leisurely slow pace on the walking tour, you can choose the "Gentle Walker" group. If you want to get your heart rate up, go farther and keep a quicker pace, you can choose the "Active" group. Most people on our cruise were looking for something in the middle so they chose the "Moderate" or "Intermediate" group. We mostly signed up for the "Active" group excursions and it was perfect. For an example of the various excursion options offered at each stop on our cruise, check out the AMA itinerary here . Below is a quick summary of each excursion we chose. I will do more detailed blogs on each stop of the cruise soon so if you are planning your own Europe trip you can decide if you want to include any of these locations in your plans. But for now, here is an overview: Riquewihr, France: At the first stop in Breisach, Germany, we took a bus to take a guided walking tour of the town of Riquewihr, France. This actually turned out to be one of my favorite stops on the cruise. The quaint town of Riquewihr is located on the Alsace Wine Route in eastern France. Entering the center of the town is like taking a step back in time. Riquewihr looks essentially like it did during the 16th century. It is one of the few European towns that did not sustain any damage during WWII. Cobblestone streets lined with half-timber houses make you feel you have entered another century. Grape growing and wine making are the main industries in this area and we got the chance to taste some locally made wines. So good! Strasbourg, France: Strasbourg, France is the capital of the Grand Est region and sits on the border with Germany. Strasbourg is the seat of the European Parliament and houses the European Court of Human Rights. It is also an ENESCO World Heritage site with many interesting things to see, including the La Petite France district which is a medieval section of the city with cobblestone streets lined with traditional half-timber houses. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is an impressive gothic cathedral with amazing stained glass windows and an astronomical clock that puts on a show every hour. Ludwigshafen/Heidelberg: On Day 4 we docked at Ludwigshafen, Germany and took a bus into Heidelberg to visit Schloss Heidelberg (otherwise known as Heidelberg Castle). The Heidelberg Castle is visited by over 1,000,000 people a year. The first mention of the Castle was in relics from 1225! The Castle was attacked and partially destroyed by the French in the late 17th century. The devastation was completed by lightening strikes in 1764. The Heidelberg Castle has sat in ruins since that time. Some relics from the Castle have been preserved including the larger than life wine barrel that holds 58,000 gallons of wine! Walking through the ruins it is possible to imagine the beauty and elegance of this Castle back in the day. It is nestled in the hills high above the Old Town of Heidelberg and the River Neckar. After touring the Castle ruins, we walked around Old Town Heidelberg and stopped in a local brewpub that brews a beer called Vetter 33 with 33% alcohol! I took a taste, but not really my cup of tea...thank goodness. Rüdesheim, Germany: Day 4 was one of those lucky days when we got two excursions in a day. At night, after sailing from Ludwigshafen to Rüdesheim, we went with everyone on the cruise to a local bar to try a Rüdesheim Coffee. Rüdesheim Coffee is a local specialty combining coffee with the local brandy (Asbach Uralt) and sugar cubes and then flambéing the mixture until it is all dissolved. I am not a big coffee drinker, but I enjoyed this specialty from the region. Unfortunately, we didn't have a lot of time to wander around other parts of Rüdesheim, but it looked like a beautiful little town. It is also known for its grape-growing and wine production, so another great place to stop if you are planning your own little wine tour of the Alsace region! We stayed in Rüdesheim overnight so excursions on Day 5 were in the same location. We chose that day to do a bike ride along the Rhine River and up to a local vineyard. The bike ride was 14 miles and had some fairly steep inclines. I love riding my bike, but am not currently in biking shape so it was a bit challenging! Especially when it started raining/sleeting during the last three miles. I was never so happy to see that Riverboat. Despite the challenge, it was a great experience to ride along the river and amongst the vineyards in the area. Rhine Gorge River Cruising In the afternoon after leaving the Rüdesheim port, we cruised through the Rhine River Gorge which was added as a ENESCO World Heritage site because of its beauty as a cultural landscape (29 castles, multiple vineyards, beautiful riverside towns) and due to its importance in historical European transport. Although the timing of our cruise meant that the weather was a little chilly to sit on the deck of the ship and watch the castles go by, it was still a relaxing afternoon to sit at the front of the boat and take in the views. AMA Waterways gives you a handout that identifies each of the castles you sail by and gives a bit of history as you sail along. Cologne, Germany: Day 6 was a stop in Cologne, Germany where we took a walking tour of the city and went to a tasting of the Kölsch style of beer that originated in Cologne. Kölsch beer is a hybrid between an ale and a lager with a light, crisp taste. A beer may only be called a Kölsch if it is brewed within 50 km zone around Cologne. Currently there are only 13 breweries authorized to brew Kölsch beer. We visited one of those authorized brewers, the Früh brewpub, to experience the Kölsch beer for ourselves. If you know me, you know my beer taste (well, my sister might question the use of that word) runs toward barely beer like Coors Light or Michelob Ultra. However, when in Rome...so I tried the local specialty and actually enjoyed it! In addition to strict laws about the brewing and labeling of Kölsch beer, there are traditions and customs for ordering that you should know before you show up to sample the local specialty. When you arrive, the server will ensure you are provided with the specialty glass that Kölsch beer is served in and place a full beer on a coaster. If your glass is empty and sitting on top of the coaster, they will bring you a fresh one without any further communication. If you are done, you must place the coaster on top of your glass to signal "no more". They will keep track of your tab by hash marking your coaster. If you lose your coaster there will be a fee imposed (could be up to 50 euro!). Amsterdam, Netherlands: The last stop on the cruise was Amsterdam. This is where we started our journey so had already spent a little time here. We planned to spend another day in Amsterdam after the cruise in which we scheduled a tour to Keukenhof Gardens which opened for the season while we were sailing. The excursion options in Amsterdam were a canal cruise and the Gardens. Since we were already planning a trip to Keukenhof we opted for the canal cruise. I highly recommend a canal cruise if you visit Amsterdam. It gives a totally different perspective viewing the city from the water vantage point. The tour guide also provided us with some of the history of Amsterdam. The Daily Sip and Sail Every day on the ship there was a daily Sip and Sail right before dinner. At the Sip and Sail, wine, beer and the Drink of the Day are complimentary. The Drink of the Day was usually something fun like a Lemon Drop, Gin Fizz, or Margarita. We never missed a Sip and Sail! We got free drinks, got to socialize with our new friends and find out about the different excursions that others went on. The Cruise Manager would also gives us the run down of the next day and the various excursions that would be offered. Once it was over everyone would head to dinner for the amazing food! The Food The food on the AMA Waterways Riverboat Cruise was amazing! And that is coming from someone who is extremely picky. My friends were in heaven at every meal trying all of the wonderful creations from the ship's chef. I will say I DID go out of my comfort zone and tried several new things (and even liked what I tried most of the time!). The food selection was so delicious I am going to do a separate short blog just on the culinary experience on the ship, but here are a few pictures of some of the delicious meals we got to eat. It was so luxurious to have chefs cooking for us and attentive waiters serving us for a week. The Nightlife Every night after dinner, everyone would gather in the lounge to socialize and dance. It was the time when everyone on the ship really bonded. We had so much fun hanging with all of our new friends. This is where we really connected with the other women who were on girl's trips as well. It was such a nice addition to have the time to socialize with people who you were getting to know better and better as the week went on. This was definitely one of my favorite parts of the Riverboat Cruise experience! Plan That Girl's Trip with AMA Waterways! If you are thinking of planning a girl's getaway anytime soon, I would highly recommend considering an AMA Waterways Riverboat Cruise. It is certainly a week for your and your Girl Gang to be pampered and cared for by the hard-working staff, have amazing experiences exploring the world, taste delicious food and wines and make new friends from all over. While it may seem expensive, if you consider that the price of the cruise includes all meals for a week cooked by a chef, complimentary local wine and beer at all meals along with specialty cocktails at Sip 'n Sail every night, all excursions, nightly entertainment and memories to last a life time, it actually may not be that much more than another trip where you have to pay for all your meals, drinks and entertainment! It was an amazing experience to have with my close friends and was definitely "the best trip ever!".

Entrance to Historic Congress Park off of Broadway When visiting Saratoga Springs, you should definitely plan to spend a lovely afternoon exploring the Historic Congress Park. It is located right off of Broadway in the middle of the city. There are many ways to enjoy Congress Park and to take it all in will definitely take a few hours. Here are the best ways to spend an afternoon in Congress Park: Have a Picnic! If it is lunch or dinner time, grab some grub and have a picnic in the park! There are many picnics tables throughout the park or bring a blanket to spread out under a tree. If you haven't thought ahead to pack a picnic basket (or if you are visiting from out of town and don't have supplies), you can certainly find plenty of picnic options at the various restaurants and food establishments throughout downtown Saratoga. For delicious sandwiches, I recommend Saratoga Deli, Putnam Market, PDT Market or Mrs. London's. Take Your Daily Walk. If you are trying to reach your daily step count, a stroll around Congress Park is the perfect solution! There are paths that go all over the park. You can take paths with inclines, climb the Katrina Trask Memorial Stairway and take in all of the history of the park by following the self-guided walking tour . Sip Some Water From A Famous Mineral Spring Fountain. There are two springs located in Congress Park. The Columbian Spring is now an inactive mineral spring, but if you are parched after all that walking you can grab some fresh municipal drinking water that now flows from the fountain. The Congress Spring located nearby produced one of Saratoga's best known mineral waters that was bottled and sold all over America and Europe in the 1800s. The Congress Spring is still an active spring, so you have the opportunity to drink some of Saratoga's renowned healing mineral waters during your stroll through the park. Columbian Spring in Congress Park Take a Rest By the Ponds in Congress Park. There are a couple of ponds in the park with benches strategically placed for maximum enjoyment. You can listen to the peaceful water sounds, watch all the people and dogs walking through the park and observe all the wildlife in the park (if you are here in the spring you may be lucky enough to catch mother ducks trying to corral all the baby ducklings). Visit the Saratoga Springs History Museum in the Canfield Casino. In the middle of the park you will see the historic Canfield Casino. The beautiful building that used to house a men's gaming club back in the day, now houses the Saratoga Springs History Museum. The Canfield Casino is often used for special events and weddings, so you may catch bridal parties out and about in the park taking amazing wedding photos. I have never been to a wedding at this venue, but I have heard it is beautiful. I have visited the History Museum and I learned A LOT about the sordid and juicy history of Saratoga Springs and the wealthy people who used to travel here for rest, relaxation and the renowned healing mineral waters (not to mention the casino and the horse racing). There are rumors that the Canfield Casino is haunted, so if that is your vibe you will definitely want to check it out! I had no ghostly sightings when I was there, but maybe you will have better luck! Saratoga Springs History Museum in the Canfield Casino Take a Spin on the Historic Wooden Carousel. For only a dollar, you can take your kids (or your inner child) for a ride on an authentic wooden carousel. The Carousel opened on May 7 for the 2023 season. Until mid-June, it is only open on the weekends, but will be open daily thereafter from 11-6. Check Out All of the Monuments and Statues in the Park. There are a lot of monuments and statues located within the park. Here is what you can see: Spit and Spat Triton Fountain: Italian Garden with statues of Pan and the Meneads Around a Sundial: Spirit of Life Reflecting Pond: War Monuments: Congress Park has war monuments honoring Saratoga Springs veterans from the Civil War and World War II. World War II Monument in Congress Park Enjoy Live Music or an Art Show in the Park: Once track season begins, the City of Saratoga Springs holds weekly concerts, art shows and festivals in the park. Check out the schedule for the free Summer Concert Series here . If you are heading to Saratoga Springs this summer, make sure to make plans to spend a relaxing afternoon in Congress Park enjoying the scenery and learning about the history of Saratoga. It is a beautiful spot you do not want to miss!