Navigation

Archive | TRAVEL AND BOOKS

🌈 Grow Your Own Rainbow: Why Vibrant Harvest Belongs on Every Gardener’s Holiday Wish List

November 5, 2025 0

If you’ve ever dreamed of a vegetable garden that looks as magical as a flower bed, I have the perfect book for you.

You know how some gardens feel like quiet little patches of green? Lovely, but… a little predictable? Well, Sandra Mao (@sandra.urbangarden) wants us to throw out that rulebook and embrace the color! Her brand-new book, Vibrant Harvest: Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden with Heirlooms, Modern Hybrids, and More, arriving December 2, is the most joyful gardening guide I’ve read in ages.

It’s part inspiration, part education, and completely gorgeous, a celebration of purple tomatoes, pink beans, magenta potatoes, speckled lettuces, and all the edible wonders that make gardening feel like art.

🌿 A Book That Will Change the Way You Garden

What I love most about Vibrant Harvest is how approachable it is. Sandra doesn’t just tell you what to plant , she shows you how to bring color, creativity, and personality into every inch of your garden, whether you’re working with a raised bed, a few pots on the patio, or an entire backyard plot.

Her mantra says it all:

“Vegetable gardens absolutely don’t have to be boring plots of green!”

Yes, please.

The book is organized into four easy-to-follow sections that take you from dreaming to harvest:

  1. Choose Your Plants – 42 dazzling vegetable profiles, organized by season and edible part (I already have my eye on the purple cauliflower and candy-striped beets).
  2. Plan & Start Your Garden – Site selection, soil prep, seed starting, and transplanting, Sandra walks you through it all.
  3. Care for Your Garden – Watering, feeding, pruning, staking, and trellising, written with the kind of real-life advice only an experienced gardener can give.
  4. Pick, Preserve & Prepare Your Harvest – Smart tips on harvesting, storing, and even cooking your colorful bounty.

It’s the kind of guide that makes you want to run outside, dig your hands into the soil, and start planting something beautiful.

🌸 Why I’m Adding It to My Holiday Gift List

Every year I try to give at least one gift that inspires someone to slow down and reconnect with nature, and Vibrant Harvest is exactly that kind of gift.

It’s perfect for:

  • The friend who’s already planning next spring’s seed order.
  • The foodie who loves photographing their meals (rainbow carrots, anyone?).
  • The eco-lover who believes homegrown always tastes better.
  • Or honestly, yourself, because who couldn’t use a little more color (and joy) right now?

With 150 vivid photos and Sandra’s encouraging voice, it’s a reminder that gardening isn’t just about growing food, it’s about cultivating beauty, creativity, and connection.

🌱 From the Author’s Garden to Yours

Sandra’s own Southern California garden is a year-round rainbow, but what’s wonderful is that her guidance works for gardeners everywhere. Whether you’re in the warm sunshine of the South, the breezy coasts, or the mountain towns like mine here in North Carolina, you’ll find tips that match your growing zone.

And if you’ve ever struggled to keep your garden feeling inspired mid-season, this book will re-ignite that spark. It makes gardening feel like play again, messy, colorful, creative play that fills your kitchen with flavor and your heart with joy.

🌈 Grow Boldly, Eat Brilliantly

Vibrant Harvest reminds us that food can be both nourishing and beautiful, that a tomato can be as stunning as a bouquet, and that growing your own vegetables is one of the simplest ways to bring art into everyday life.

This holiday season, gift a little color, creativity, and inspiration, or keep it for yourself and start planning your most colorful garden yet.

Because why settle for a plain green garden when you can grow a kaleidoscope? 🌿💚

The Ultimate Holiday Gift for the Outdoor Adventurer: Sawyer × Cnoc Squeeze Water Filtration System

November 5, 2025 0

If someone on your gift list lives for trails, paddles, peaks and packing the RV for spontaneous getaways (ahem, that might be you or my husband Jayson) then I’ve found a holiday winner. The Sawyer × Cnoc Squeeze Water Filtration System (2 L bladder version) is exactly the kind of gear that says “I see your adventure-lust and I support it.”

Why it works: light, rugged, travel-ready, and built to keep the water flowing when you’re off the beaten path. Because let’s be real, when you’re hiking in the Blue Ridge, or camping near a quiet lake, or road-tripping south in your RV, you don’t want to worry about whether that stream is drinkable. With this system, you’re covered.

🌿 Why I’m Totally Into It

Here are the reasons I’d love to get this (and you might too):

  • The system features a 0.1 micron absolute hollow-fiber membrane filter that removes 99.99999% of bacteria (like E. coli, salmonella) and 99.9999% of protozoa (like giardia, cryptosporidium). It even filters out 100% of microplastics.
  • Built with a durable TPU 2-liter bladder with a wide mouth for fast filling, so when you’re dipping into a creek or using a campsite spigot, it’s easy.
  • Lightweight, packable, no bulky pump or heavy parts, meaning less gear-stress and more actual adventure time. Reviewers call it “light and durable” and a top choice for backpacking.
  • Perfect for traveling, RV trips, paddleboard trips, weekend hikes out of Banner Elk, winter getaways to Florida. One piece of gear that covers hydration anywhere.
  • A gift that’s thoughtful, not just a “thing,” but a readiness-essence accessory: for safety, for joy, for being outdoors without compromise.

🎁 Gift-Giving Scenarios

Here are some real-life ways to frame this as a holiday gift:

For the Hiker

“Pack your backpack, strap on the boots, and know your water game is as strong as your trails.”
The Sawyer × Cnoc system says: you’re ready for roots, rocks, and remote water sources.

For the RV Traveler

They’ve got the camper, the cooler, the outdoor chairs, now give them the gear that makes a creek stop feel like home.
Imagine Jayson pulling our RV beside a riverside rest stop, filling the bladder, filtering fresh water, beach chairs out, pure freedom.

For the Family Adventure Crew

The gift isn’t just for one person, it’s for all the little “oops” moments: forgetting a bottle, scrambling to buy water, realizing the spigot tastes weird. This system sidesteps all that.

Pack it in the backpack cooler alongside your favorite backpack cooler (hello Titan by Arctic Zone), and you’ve got an all-in one adventure kit.

🛠️ How I’d Use It in Our Life

  • On a Banner Elk hike: Fill at a stream, filter, then sip while we sit overlooking the ridgeline.
  • On a paddleboard day: Fill at the shore, filter, stow the bladder in the dry bag, row out knowing hydration is settled.
  • Road-trip stop: A rest area with a questionable water fountain? No problem, use the bladder, filter, refill bottles in the RV.
  • Winter escape to Florida: Whether it’s a hike through dunes or a river paddle, this gear stays in the RV just in case.

✅ Why It’s a Smart Buy (and a Smart Gift)

  • Durability + longevity: Built to last, not just for one season of adventure.
  • Versatility: Trail, water, wheels, anywhere.
  • Thought fulness: Shows you care about their experience, about their safety, about their kind of fun.
  • Eco-friendly angle: Fewer single-use bottles, less waste, more being present outside.
  • The “cool gear” factor: It’s not a gimmick, it performs.

🛒 Where to Get It & What to Look For

You can find the product on Sawyer’s site: the “Squeeze Water Filtration System | Cnoc Premium 2 Liter Bladder” page.

Make sure it’s the full kit (filter + bladder) so the recipient doesn’t have “just a bag” and then has to buy the filter separately.

🎄 Final Holiday Wrap Up

If you’re looking for a gift that’s outdoor-ready, practically-useful, and inspired by adventure, this one’s a winner. It says “let’s go somewhere,” “let’s explore,” “let’s not worry about the water.”

And that’s exactly the vibe you want when you’re living close to the mountains, hitting picnic hikes, RVing south for the winter, the gear should fade into the background while the adventure stays front and center.

So tie a bow (eco-friendly ribbon, maybe a pine sprig) around this one, drop in a note: “Here’s to streams, sunsets, and clean sips on your next big trek.” I guarantee the adventurer in your life will smile.

Why Every Family Adventure Needs a KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit

October 22, 2025 0

Let’s be honest, family adventures are equal parts magic and mayhem.

One minute, you’re hiking through wildflowers with snacks packed and spirits high. The next, someone’s tripped on a rock, Olive’s (my Frenchie) stepped in a mud puddle, and Mr. Sweet Greens somehow managed to get a splinter through his glove. (True story.)

That’s exactly why I’ve fallen head over hiking boots for the KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit, a total mom-level lifesaver that’s now permanently packed in my bag, car, and RV.

Created by a fellow mom of four (so you know it’s the real deal), this kit is the perfect mix of smart design and stylish practicality. It’s TSA-approved, water- and stain-resistant, and comes with 130+ first aid essentials like burn relief, bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and even those tiny little scissors you never have when you need them most.

Basically, it’s peace of mind, zipped up in a cute case.

🌿 Why I Love It

💚 Mom-designed + travel-ready: Because no one understands family chaos better than a mom who’s lived it.
💼 Compact, stylish case: Water- and stain-resistant with trendy patterns like Tie-Dye, Woodland (my favorite!), and Tropical Blooms.
🧳 TSA-approved, Fits right into carry-ons, glove compartments, and diaper bags without taking up valuable snack space.
🩹 Loaded with 130+ essentials, From mini bandages to burn cream, it’s like having a nurse in your backpack.
🚗 Four sizes to choose from, Mini (60 pieces) to SuperKit (270 pieces), so there’s one for every adventure.

✨ 7 Everyday Adventures KEEP>GOING Was Made For

Because life doesn’t happen inside the house, it happens on the go, with messy, beautiful, unpredictable moments.

1. Mountain Hikes + Muddy Trails ⛰️

If you’ve ever hiked with kids, you already know, someone will fall. Someone will whine. Someone will ask for snacks (again and again). With the KEEP>GOING kit in your backpack, at least you’re ready for scraped knees, bug bites, and whatever nature throws your way.

2. Farmer’s Market Saturdays 🍓

Between berry sampling, lavender bouquets, and bumping into everyone you know in Banner Elk, it’s easy for small cuts or bee stings to sneak in. I keep the MiniKit in my tote, it’s adorable and functional.

3. Road Trips + Rest Stop Chaos 🚙

We’re a road-trip family. From the mountains to the coast, our glove compartment is basically a survival zone, snacks, sunscreen, hand wipes, and now the KEEP>GOING kit. Because when someone manages to get a paper cut from a map (yes, it happened), you’re prepared.

4. Picnics + Paddleboards 🏖️

Sun, water, sandwiches, and somehow… minor injuries. Between paddleboard dings and stepping on rocks barefoot, this kit saves the day every time. Bonus: it’s water-resistant, so it’s perfect for lake days.

5. Backyard BBQs + Bonfire Nights 🔥

No one plans on blisters from new sandals or mosquito bites that swell like golf balls. I set the kit on the picnic table next to the marshmallows, because s’mores and safety can totally coexist.

6. Kids’ Sports + Weekend Tournaments ⚽

Between turf burns, bee stings, and “mystery splinters,” I’ve learned it’s not if you’ll need a first aid kit, it’s when. KEEP>GOING is the MVP of the sidelines.

7. Glamping, Camping, or Cabin Weekends 🏕️

Our adventures in the Blue Ridge often come with campfires, hikes, and unexpected “ouches.” Even though Eben is grown and doesn’t camp much with us anymore, it never fails that Mr. Sweet Greens or I hurt ourselves in one way or another. OR, there’s Olive, I had to use my kit to get a tick off her on our last trip and then clean her up afterward! I love knowing I can grab my kit, unzip, and instantly find what I need (no rummaging through random Ziploc bags).

💚 A Mom-Approved Must-Have

What I love most about KEEP>GOING is how intentional it feels. Every item is thoughtfully included, the quality is top-notch, and it’s all tucked into a design that makes you want to actually use it.

And as someone who lives in a small mountain town where adventure (and nature’s surprises) are never far away, it’s become one of my favorite travel companions.

If you’ve ever found yourself with a splinter mid-road trip, a scraped knee during a family hike, or a surprise bee sting at a summer picnic, you’ll totally get why I won’t leave home without mine.

🛒 Where to Get Yours

You can find these lifesaving kits directly at keepgoingfirstaid.com or on Amazon.

They come in several sizes and a variety of stylish prints, so you can grab one for your car, your hiking bag, your diaper bag, even one for Grandma’s house.

Because life’s little adventures are a lot more fun when you’re ready for them. 🌿

So go ahead, pack your snacks, fill your water bottles, and don’t forget your KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit, your future self (and your kids’ scraped knees) will thank you.

Banner Elk, NC Fall Weekend Guide: Woolly Worm Festival, Valle Crucis Fair & Mountain Adventure

October 16, 2025 0

Hey, sweet friends, ready for a fun weekend in the High Country? 🎃 Whether you live in Banner Elk or are just stopping through, here are my top picks for things to do, and yes, the Woolly Worm Festival and Valle Country Fair are must-sees! P.S. The photo above is Eben’s college!

🍂 Fall Vibes + Local Flavor

Before we dive into festival fun, here are a few low-key, charming things you can sprinkle into your weekend:

  • Hike a nearby trail — the leaves are peaking, so get outside. Grab a trail map and head up to a scenic overlook or along a creek. I recommend Crab Orchard Falls, Hebron Falls or the Profile Trail at Grandfather mountain.
  • Stroll downtown Banner Elk — pop into locally owned shops, grab a coffee, perhaps stop at a gallery or two. I recommend the Banner Elk Trading Co, Apple Hill Farm Outpost, and if you are coming down from Beech Mountain, Fred’s General Mercantile.
  • Visit a local winery or farm — for a relaxing afternoon with good views and even better sips. (Pssst, there’s a post on my site about Banner Elk Winery.) Sweet Greens
  • Scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway — the fall colors are peaking right now, it’s a drive you won’t forget!

I’ll give you more ideas in the weekend itinery below.

Now, let’s talk festivals!

🐛 Woolly Worm Festival — Banner Elk, Oct 18–19, 2025

This quirky, much-loved local tradition returns October 18 & 19 in Banner Elk.

What to Expect

  • Worm races — participants race woolly worms up a 3-foot string. The champion worm on Saturday wins $1,000 and the honor of “predicting winter.”
  • Craft & food vendors — over 150 booths with artisan goods, fall treats, local fare, and more.
  • Live music & entertainment — enjoy local bands, children’s activities, and the festival vibe.
  • Kids’ zones & fun extras — bounce houses, games, and family-friendly attractions.

Tips & Logistics

  • Hours: Daily 9:00 a.m.–4:00 or 5:00 p.m. (varies by day)
  • Admission: About $8 for adults, $5 for kids (6–12), and free for 5 & under.
  • Parking & traffic: Expect lots of cars. Many parking areas will charge $5–$10, and proceeds often benefit local groups.
  • Be early — get a good parking spot, register your worm (spots fill fast), and enjoy the festival before the crowds peak.

🌾 Valle Country Fair — Valle Crucis, Oct 18, 2025

If you’re up for a one-day deep dive into mountain culture, head to the Valle Country Fair. It’s held Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What Makes It Special

  • Crafts & artisans — juried exhibitors showcase handmade goods: woodwork, pottery, textiles, and more.
  • Mountain food & cooking — think Brunswick stew, barbecue, chili, apple cider, and homemade jams. You may even catch apple butter being made live.
  • Musical performances & local flavor — bluegrass, gospel, country, clogging, storytelling, and more on multiple stages.
  • Family fun zone — pumpkin bowling, face painting, crafts, games, and alpaca visits are among the highlights.

Details & Tips

  • Admission: Free entry; parking is $10 per car (higher for buses/vans).
  • Location: On NC Highway 194 (between Valle Crucis & Banner Elk), across from Holy Cross Church.
  • Direction tip: You can bypass some Banner Elk traffic by taking back roads as suggested by local guides.
  • Proceeds: All proceeds benefit community outreach, nonprofits, and local needs.

📅 Sample Itinerary for the Weekend

Here’s how you might plan your time:

TimeSaturdaySunday
8:30 a.m.Grab breakfast in Banner ElkMorning hike / slow start
9:00 a.m.Arrive at Valle Country Fair (opens)Head to Woolly Worm Festival
9:00–12:00 p.m.Fair browsing, crafts, food, musicWorm races, vendors, kids area
NoonEat lunch at the fair, enjoy stage actsLunch at festival or in town
1:30–3:30 p.m.More fun, apple butter demo, kids activitiesFinal worm race & live performance
Late afternoonScenic drive home or stop in town shopsWind down with a cozy dinner or quiet hike

If you stay local in Banner Elk, you’ll have flexibility to pop in and out of festivals, squeeze in a hike, or enjoy downtime between bursts of activity.

🎯 Pro Tips from Sweet Greens

  • Bring cash & small bills — some vendors are cash-only.
  • Dress in layers — mountain mornings are cool, afternoons can be sunny.
  • Pack a small reusable bag or tote — you’ll want to bring home crafts, preserves, or local goodies.
  • Don’t forget your camera or phone — the fall colors are stunning right now.
  • Plan for traffic — leaving early helps avoid bottlenecks, especially between events.
  • Check for pet rules — many festival sites do not allow pets. (For the Wooly Worm Festival, pets are not allowed.

20 Best North Carolina High Country Fall Family Activities!

September 16, 2025 2

Since we have lived in the North Carolina mountains full-time for almost two years, I’ve been craving fall! It can’t come soon enough. 

Here are my top 20 favorite activities, the ones I’ve been dreaming about. and now that we live here, I get to enjoy them all season! 

  1. Bouldering at Hebron Rock Colony
  2. New River pumpkin patch and corn maze
  3. Boone Farmer’s Market
  4. Stopping to shop for antiques in quaint little shops (they are everywhere!)
  5. S’mores on the fire pit (we’ve been doing savory s’mores – game changer!
  6. Caramel apples at Kilwins in Blowing Rock
  7. Grabbing a pretzel (or the Falafel!) at Lost Province Brewing Co.
  8. Shopping for stocking stuffers in Blowing Rock (I like to get a jumpstart!)
  9. Mast General Store in Valle Crucis
  10. Apple Picking at The Historic Orchard at Altapass
  11. Dinner on the patio at Over Yonder
  12. Music at Valle Crucis Park!
  13. Visiting my favorite farm stands. Springhouse Farm, I’m looking at you! 
  14. Grabbing a Dutch Creek ice cream
  15. Music in the Park at a variety of places! 
  16. Spending time with the boys (Eben is in grad school, but I look forward to him coming home for Thanksgiving break!) 
  17. Cozy movie night with the giant sliding glass doors open and the fireplace roaring
  18. Going for long bike rides! 
  19. Sitting in the hot tub by the creek!

Do you have a fall family tradition that you look forward to? I would love to hear it. Leave a comment below!

Older posts