Overnight Bag

Lo & Sons

Currently, I'm a little obsessed with this O.G. (Overnight & Gym) Bag from Lo & Sons. I've been searching for a new weekend travel bag and I think I just found the perfect companion. It's so classic and beautiful!

You must go to their website and watch the video to see all that you can fit in this little guy. It's amazing.  All you'd need for a weekend away can be easily and neatly tucked inside.

Oh, I would absolutely accept this as a birthday present! Thanks for asking.

Love, Alli

Raleigh is No. 1!

eHow

Have you heard the exciting news?  Raleigh was rated America's Number One City by Businessweek.com!  I knew I lived in a wonderful, booming city, but I had no idea it would win the top spot over some of our nations hot spots.  

Though New York City is busting at the seams with arts and cultural events, and Boston is top dog when it comes to academics, according to the article, these cities lost to the City of Oaks because their unemployment rates, crime rates, and the like, were higher than Raleigh's.  

I've lived in North Carolina's capital city for about four and a half years now, and it's hard for me to imagine myself anywhere else.  My freshman year of college I couldn't envision myself staying in Raleigh once my years at NC State were over, but when I graduated I had no thoughts of wanting to leave this growing city.  It had captured my heart.

Not only have I found a wonderful community of friends and a loving church, but there is something exciting happening in Raleigh just about every day.  We have fascinating museums, delicious restaurants, and enough arts programs to entertain even the biggest art enthusiasts.  The music scene is very prevalent here, and with NC State's award winning college radio station, 88.1 WKNC, it's easy to learn about local bands and the venues that support them.

I have truly fallen in love with this city and I cannot wait to see what adventures it will bring my way in the coming years.  Maybe I'll share some of my favorite spots in this beloved city soon!

Love, Alli

The Beauty of DC

This past holiday weekend I was lucky enough to venture to Washington D.C. with my dear friend Robyn for her 25th birthday!  Robyn, two other sweet friends, and myself had an amazing time exploring this historical city.

The birthday girl!

I've been to DC before on a middle school trip and on short, family vacations, but it wasn't until this trip that I was struck with the amazing beauty DC holds.  I think my my mouth hung open for 99% of the trip as I gazed in awe at the breathtaking architecture and ran along green parks and meandered through some of the inspiring Smithsonian museums.

Buildings with many windows capture my heart.

I have a soft-spot for ducks.

The view of the Jefferson Memorial over the water was so gorgeous that it almost made me want to paddle boat.

We even said "hey" to Abe.

And, of course, we made a stop by the White House.

Not only was I able to see many beautiful and amazing things, but I also ate some very tasty treats!

More than halfway through our day on Saturday, we were exhausted. The weather was humid, the sun was burning brightly, and my out of shape body was protesting the five or six mile walk it just endured.  Fortunately, we happened upon the cutest French patisserie I have ever seen, Paul.  It was founded in Northern France in 1889 and opened it's first DC store in 2011.  I strongly approve.  A warm apple turnover and iced vanilla latte was exactly what my aching body needed.

I had a hard time deciding what to eat.  It all looked so good!!

That night we ate at an adorable restaurant called Open City. It is acclaimed as "one of the most powerful restaurants in DC" by the Washington City Paper.  That's a bold statement, but I saw no reason to disagree.  The food was amazing, the atmosphere was relaxing, and the waitstaff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. Also, it's off the beaten path so it isn't a traditional tourist's watering hole. Though, sometimes, I'm all for the cheesy, touristy stuff, it was nice to have a relaxing dinner without hearing a group argue over whether or not the ruby slippers seen in the Smithsonian were the actual ones from The Wizard of Oz.

Sunday morning my friends and I were in for a treat.  We wanted to find a local coffee shop where we could spend the morning reading and relaxing and sipping lattes.  We ended up at baked & wired in Georgetown and we immediately fell in love.  I mean, there were rows upon rows of delectable looking cupcakes staring us in the face with helpful barristas by their side.  Who could resist?  My friend Candace and I shared the strawberry cupcake and I had bites of the lemon/blueberry and red velvet cupcakes.  My only regret is that I didn't have the time, or the money, to try them all!

baked & wired

Georgetown was my favorite stop on our tour, by far.  (The history loving part of me just cringed a little.) There were so many fun looking restaurants and delicious looking bakeries.  Just about every store you could imagine was located there and every row house had it's own cute, distinct personality that I could've moved right in and felt at home.

What are some of your favorite capitol city memories?


Love, Alli

The Vacation Guide: Beaufort, North Carolina

image from: Deja Vu Postcards and Collectables

One of my favorite getaway spots is Beaufort, North Carolina.  Don't be confused by South Carolina's Beaufort; we NCers pronounce ours Bo-fort.  I've been going there since I was a little girl and it's charming beauty and southern peace continuously draws me back.  If you're looking for a quaint coastal escape then look no further than Beaufort, NC!

Top Accommodations

Pecan Tree Inn - Located on Queen St., this bed and breakfast "provides a restful oasis for visitors to this undiscovered gem of a seaport."  It was built around 1886 and was initially used as a Masonic Lodge.  Its seven guest rooms ooze with southern charm while its large porches will invite you to sit back, relax, and finish that book you've been meaning to read the past couple of months.  

Inlet Inn - Located on Front Street, this inn has a breathtaking view of the sound and Shackleford Banks.  Each room has its own private porch that overlooks the water and breakfast is included in the rate!  They boast of they best view in Beaufort and I see no reason to disagree.

Langdon House Bed & Breakfast - Built in the 1730's, this bed and breakfast is a perfect example of the classic Beaufort home. It is furnished with 18th and 19th century antiques and has a queen bed in each of the four rooms.  My favorite is the Lambre Room, with it's dark hardwoods and classic furniture.  The Master Suite, however, has sole access to the second floor porch and would create for a memorable and romantic trip.

Top Restaurants

The Fudge Factory - The enticing, sweet smell that wafts across all of Front Street comes from The Fudge Factory.  Here you can purchase some of the best tasting fudge you will ever have.  These candy makers still make fudge the old fashioned way, by hand; you can watch them work right there in the shop.  Though Chocolate is a classic, my favorite is the Maple Walnut Fudge.  Even if you don't plan on making a visit to Beaufort, I encourage you to buy some of their fudge from their on-line store.  It's a great birthday or housewarming gift!

Clawson's Reastaurant & Pub - If you're looking for a casual, laid-back seafood meal then Clawson's is the restaurant for you.  They offer surf and turf items and also boast of an extensive draft menu.  You may want to make reservations, though, as this is a favorite among Beaufort visitors.

Beaufort Grocery Co. - I make visiting this restaurant a top priority on all my trips to Beaufort.  There is something on the menu for everyone! From salads, to sandwiches, to fresh fish, they have it all.  I usually get the Tuna Fillet Sandwich with their delicious potato salad on the side. I do, however, like stealing morsels from my family members plates as we all try to get something different.  Be sure to try one of their house-made desserts!

Front Street Grill - Not only does this restaurant sit on the water and have an amazing view of the sound, but the food tastes like delicacies you thought could only be found in your dreams.  I know, that's a pretty bold statement, but their fresh seafood with southern flare is one of a kind.  It is always a toss up between the Fish Tacos and Shrimp and Grits.  I will, however, always make room for the Friend Okra. Amazing.

image from: Shackleford Banks Ferry

Top Activities

The Legend of Blackbeard Tour - Edward Teach, or, more commonly known as Blackbeard, is referred to as "the fiercest pirate to ever live."  I mean, the guy lit firecrackers in his beard in order to make him look tougher.  He made Beaufort one of his favorite ports to use for rest and restocking supplies.  Though the locals during his time did not enjoy his visits, it provides some pretty exciting stories for us today.  This tour will take you around the streets of Beaufort and into his house while recounting his life from birth up until his death on the Outer Banks.

NC Maritime Museum - This was one of my favorite spots when I was younger.  I loved learning about ships and the men that sailed them.  For a small museum, it is loaded with historical artifacts.  And because they just found one of the anchors from Queen Anne's Revenge, the museum has enough Blackbeard paraphernalia to satisfy all of your pirate cravings.  Also, across the street sits the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center.  Here you can watch, and even participate in, boatbuilding courses!

Antique Shopping - One of my favorite things to do anywhere I visit is to walk through antique stores.  Beaufort has many with great, reasonably priced finds.  With the history and age of the town, each antique store has unique, local items with charm and history.  The finds I purchase here are always conversation starters.

Shackleford Banks Ferry -  How would you like to walk with the wild horses of Shackleford Banks? Yes, it was a dream come true for me the day I signed up for this ferry tour.  As one of the only ferry tours on the island, it will not disappoint.  This herd of horses is one of the last free roaming, isolated groups remaining in the US.  The tour guide will help you track the horses and promises many a Kodak moment.  Once you have seen as many horses as your heart desires, the guide will direct you to one of the best shelling beaches in the Southern Outerbanks.  It is filled with Sand Dollars, Queen's Helmets, and Conchs.  Your shell collection will never be the same.

If you would like to see your favorite vacation spot featured on The Vacation Guide, or would like to guest blog, send us an email to wakingonthewing at gmail dot com.

Happy travels!

Love, Alli

The Vacation Guide: Richmond, Virginia

When my parents moved to Richmond, VA, I thought, This is going to take some getting used to. Even though there weren't green golf courses everywhere like I was used to, I was pleasantly surprised at how WONDERFUL this city is! If you're a young professional, particularly a young person who appreciates the arts, you MUST visit this great place. It does help to have some guidance on some favorite spaces and places  to fully enjoy the life of Richmond! Some of the hidden treasures are not easily stumbled upon.

Top Accommodations

The Jefferson Hotel- It has been regarded as one of the grander hotels and one of the finest in America. The architecture is phenomenal! If you're able to splurge on a more expensive stay, this hotel is the way to go. It's fun, interesting, beautiful, and right in the heart of downtown! Experience the history of Richmond through Jefferson's unique tours while unwinding and indulging in the spa, great service, and marvelous food!

The Westin Hotel- Located on Broad Street just off of Interstate 64 makes it easy to explore all of the popular landmarks and local attractions of Richmond. But, you may not want to leave once you check out the indoor pool, spa services, and exercise facilities! This hotel is moderately expensive - definitely cheaper than the Jefferson by far.The best part about The Westin is it's sensory, relaxed feel; the soft lights, music, and fresh scents are truly wonderful!

Hilton Hotel at Short Pump - This is one of the newer hotels in the upscale Short Pump area. If you want access to Short Pump Town Center, one of the best shopping spots in Richmond, you'll want to book your reservations here! This hotel offers a lot of features and specials on rates, so your best option is to plan ahead.  The Hilton at Short Pump offers some pretty great honeymoon packages, and they make it easy if your reserving space for a group. 

Top Restaurants

Edo Squid - This is my favorite restaurant in Richmond, by far; some of the best seafood and pasta dishes around! Edo Squid is a fun, cool spot in the fan and in the heart of VCU. You can't beat the atmosphere! Located on the second floor of a building, the restaurant is beautiful and intimate with the exposed brick and unique windows overlooking the street. The service is excellent and the dishes are exquisite - just make sure you make reservations and don't be surprised if the parmesan asparagus is all gone!

Mama Zu -The owner of Edo Squid also owns Mama Zu (go figure). Mama Zu is more popular than Edo Squid and offers uncommonly great Italian food. The space is tiny and crowded, but well worth the wait. The experience is different and fun; while you wait for your food, you are welcome to select a bottle of wine from the wall. Definitely the best fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. Warning, they only accept cash!

American Bistro - The charm of Richmond is often in the small, neighborhood communities. Bellevue is one of those neighborhoods that offers beautiful, eclectic homes often occupied by young working professionals and families. American Bistro is located in Bellevue, on MacArthur Avenue, a quaint, fun street to explore. The food is exceptional and moderately priced. American Bistro casually presents a wide array of cuisines and the menu is always changing. There is a creative selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.

Strawberry Street Cafe - Also located in a great neighborhood community and another favorite of mine, Strawberry Street Cafe is in the fan on one of my favorite "dream-home" streets. The area is wonderful and the restaurant atmosphere is cozy, comfortable, and homey along with the "home-cooked" menu. You can chose anything from the menu and feel like your eating grandmother's chicken pot pie! The menu is affordable, and the service is personable. 

Can Can Brasserie - Located in Cary Town, my favorite shopping and walking parts of Richmond, Can Can is a restaurant that embodies the essence of Paris in the 20s...[Actually, I can't believe my fiance and I didn't go there for desert after watching Midnight in Paris.. which by the way is INCREDIBLE... I'm sure I'll be blogging about it later]. The restaurant won Style Weekly's Restaurant of the Year, so really, there's no need to continue... unless you want me to add that strangely enough, Can Can feels like Christmas.. and I think you do :)


Sweet 95 - Don't worry, I'm not forgetting your sweet tooth. If you're looking to indulge in some pretty incredible tasty treats, don't miss Sweet 95. Located right next to Kitchen 64, another Richmond-favorite up-scale restaurant directly off of I-95, Sweet 95 will seriously satisfy your chocolate, crazy sweet wants. The ice cream is produced by the (Wirtz) Virginia-based Homestead Dairy, which is near Virginia's Smith Mountain Lake and uses milk from two local, older family farms to make ice cream using milk free of antibiotics and hormones. It's the good stuff, y'all! You can get different but incredible shakes, like Baklava with honey and chocolate, and the "Monster" cookie dough, marsh mellows, graham crackers, fudge.. the list goes on!


I could go on and on about the restaurants in Richmond, but those are a few of the best!

Top Activities 

Short Pump Town Center - Like your typical, outdoor and indoor shopping center except on steroids. This place offers EVERYTHING you can imagine from shopping, theaters, and dining. You haven't truly visited Richmond until you at least check out the West End and Short Pump. 

Cary Town - Shopping in the trendy, midtown part of Richmond. Cary Town includes various shops and restaurants from cute boutiques, vintage stores, and Thai cuisine. Cary Town also provides fun community events like "New Years Eve in Cary Town." Everyone comes out to socialize at the fun, popular bars and to watch the ball drop. The buildings in the fan are always fun to check out, too!

Maymont Park - Maymont is a super-sized park, a 100 acre American Estate. I'm a little bias to say this is a top spot/activity in Richmond because this is where Aaron proposed, in a little hut on the pond at the Japanese Gardens! Maymont  is an incredible place to explore for a day of fun. And get this.. it's FREE. Pack a lunch, take a tour, and feed the koi fish :) There are often weddings in the Italian Gardens  you can get sneak-peaks of, and there are some great climbing trees! There is also a small zoo to check out. Bring some blankets and a camera! Great day date or family event. 

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts - This is a MUST. Richmond is well known for its art community, and visiting the exhibits at the VMFA is well worth your money. There are wonderful and always changing exhibits like the Picasso exhibit, and fun events and package deals like "Art After Dark" that includes Friday Art and Wine, Jazz Cafe, films, poetry readings, and dancing. There are also some great children programs and summer art camps!

Happy Travels!

Love, Mollie

image by: Soul of America

Summer Bucket List

Happy First Day of Summer!

This is Mollie and my first summer that won't end with the ringing of school bells.  In hopes of not wasting the warm weather, we, along with our friends, have created a summer bucket list.

1. Attend an outdoor movie at the NC Art Museum

2. Create slip covers for my horrible, faded, burgundy couches

3. Have a picnic

4. Make a slip-n-slide and have a party

5. Catch fireflies in a mason jar

6. Take a day trip to the beach

7. Play in Duke Gardens for an afternoon

8. Start a girl's book club

9. Have a fancy schmancy dinner party

10. Go Shag dancing

Though we may not accomplish everything on the list, I know we'll have fun trying! What are your plans for the summer, friends?

Love, Alli

image by: honeytree

The Vacation Guide: Hilton Head, South Carolina

Tomorrow is the first day of summer and the weather in North Carolina has already been pretty hot.  I haven't been able to venture to the beach as much as I would like, but I was fortunate enough to travel to Hilton Head Island in South Carolina for a week with my parents.  We had a wonderful time relaxing on the beach and exploring the island.  

If you're planning a trip to Hilton Head I have a couple of suggestions to help make your trip extra special!

Top Accommodations

3.  The Inn at Harbour Town - If you like to be in the center of the action, then The Inn at Harbour Town is for you.  It is located in the central hub of shopping and nightlife on Hilton Head.  Not to mention, the accommodations are absolutely fabulous!  Natural light floods the luxurious lobby and spacious living quarters, constantly reminding you that you're on island time.

2. Tybee Island Bed and Breakfast - This Bed and Breakfast was featured in Cooking with Paula Deen magazine.  Need I say more?  The charming yellow house welcomes you with it's winding path and large live oak trees.  Each room is unique and can cater to each guest's specific needs.  Call the staff today and they will be happy to assist you!

1. Main Street Inn - This resort has taken it above and beyond with their accommodations and spa.  Every inch exudes elegance.  From the dark hardwood floors to the trickling fountain in the courtyard, relaxation and sophistication is around every corner.  You'll feel like the princess, or prince, of the island while staying here.

Top Restaurants

3. The Salty Dog - Though the food isn't anything above the classic fried fish and shrimp, this restaurant is a must see.  I normally don't recommend restaurants that are high on the tourist's radar, but you'll see so many Salty Dog t-shirts around the island that you'll be dying to go.  This restaurant is located in the South Beach Marina and all the night life surrounding it! The Salty Dog usually has live music and guarantees a good time.  Though there is a fee for parking, you don't let that money go to waste, however, and explore the charming shops that are found there while waiting for a table!

2. Chart House - Many restaurants in Hilton Head boast of an Early Bird Special from 4:00-5:30/5:45 for dinner.  These usually include an appetizer, entree, and dessert for a fraction of the price.  The Chart House is one of these places.  My family and I decided to take advantage of the special and it was worth the lost 30 minutes from the beach that day.  The food was delicious and the staff was extremely friendly!  When making reservations, ask if you can sit outside.  The view is breathtaking and there is nothing like watching the sun set over the sound while eating a fish that was swimming in it that very morning.

1. Old Fort Pub - The Pub also has an early bird special worth taking advantage of.  The chef creates new and delectable entree items every day.  I dined on their delicious crawfish cakes and left delightfully satisfied.  Everything on Old Ford Pub's dessert menu was enticing, but I went with their homemade heath ice-cream.  It took everything I had not to lick my bowl clean. I recommend sitting outside here as well.  Not only is the view of the sound astounding, it is also located next to an old Civil War fort.  It was fun to slowly walk through and read about the battle that took place there as my food digested.  My family and I had a wonderful time here and I'm certain yours will as well!

Top Activities

3. Tanger Outlet Mall - I know, you're at the beach. You should be outside soaking up rays and throwing the frisbee with your dad.  Contrary to popular belief, however, the sun does eventually set on the coast. Window shopping as the cool ocean breeze rustling your shopping bags is a fun way to spend an evening.  They have stores to please the entire family, including one of my favorites, J. Crew.  I wouldn't suggest spending your entire vacation here, but it's a good way to spend a free night. 

2. Coastal Discovery Museum - If you're a museum fan like myself, then you have to check this one out. It tells you everything you need to know about Hilton Head Island and Lowcountry life.  The museum also monitors sea turtle nests around the island and is a great source for any information you wish to learn about these beautiful creatures.

1. Rent a Bike - Not only does the island have safe, beautiful bike paths that will take you anywhere you want to go, the beaches are perfect for long, luxurious bike rides.  The place where my family and I stayed rented bikes to us for $15 for the week.  If your hotel does not offer this service, there are numerous locations that rent bikes.  My mom, dad, and I loved riding beneath the lush trees and swaying Spanish moss on the island paths and rode our bikes to the point every morning on the beach.  The wide beaches and compact sand made for easy riding and memories I will cherish forever.  This is a must do activity.

Happy travels!

Love, Alli

If would like to see your favorite vacation spot featured on The Vacation Guide, or would like to guestblog, send us an email at wakingonthewing at gmail dot com. 

image by: bomobob

Win A Trip To Paris

The lovely author of the blog Oh Happy Day is giving away a free trip to Paris.  That's right, you heard me, a free trip to Paris!  You can enter by simply leaving a comment on her post about the contest, tweeting about it, liking her on facebook, and/or tell your loyal readers about it on your own blog!

Though my motives in telling you about this amazing giveaway may not be completely selfless, you should absolutely go check out the rules and Jordan's other posts on Oh Happy Day. You won't be disappointed.  Good luck, friends!

Love, Alli

New Series

Memorial Day signaled the official start of Summer Vacation and, to celebrate, I thought we'd start a new series: The Vacation Guide!  Every Monday we'll try to post our favorite spots in the places Mollie and I love to visit.

If you have any suggestions for The Vacation Guide or would like to guest blog about your favorite vacation site, email us at wakingonthewing at gmail dot com.

Instead of being sad that it's Monday and daunted by the long week ahead, I hope you'll read The Vacation Guide and dream about the far away places you'll go and the adventures you'll take.

Happy Monday!

Love, Alli


image by: sixthandmain - http://www.etsy.com/shop/sixthandmain?ref=seller_info