August 2021 - Cindy Goes Beyond

August 31, 2021

Welcome to Fall with Decocrated

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

This is a paid affiliate partnership with Decocrated. All opinions are my own.

With a bit of disbelief, I realized September arrives this week. Where has the year gone, truly? I’m excited though. I LOVE the season that for me begins September 1 and concludes January 9, my birthday. It’s the season of cooler weather, my favorite scents and colors and holidays!

Although it’s still HOT in SW Missouri, I started the fall decorating this week. My Decocrated Fall box arrived, and with the opening of that box, magic ensued!

Welcome to fall with Decocrated I say. Check out what was inside the newest box and see how I used these pieces in my fall decorating.

Decocrated Fall 2021 Box

If you’ve never heard of Decocrated Curated Home, check out my initial review HERE. This subscription box company specializes in curating home decor that mixes brilliantly with what you already own and use. The boxes arrive to your front door four times a year, in time for each new season.

Plus Decocrated members have access to the online Decoshop and add-on boxes that come out around holidays such as Halloween, Christmas, Easter and 4th of July.

As summer melts…literally…into fall, this box celebrates the season with warm tones and a bit of spooky vibes. The color palette uses rusts, greens and black combined with warm woods and gold finishes. I’m thrilled that a couple of the pieces include a harvest moon. The moon is my symbol for the year and these pieces feel like winks to me.

Adriana Cullen is the Deco Creator for this season.

Take a look at this short video unboxing…and then see how I used the new Decocrated pieces.

Where the New Fall Items Went

I enjoy creating vignettes…displays that tell a story…in my home. I have several key spots that I decorate.

Lugging my boxes of fall decor into my bedroom, I spread everything out on my bed and then began the process of creating vignettes. My decor is never exactly the same, two years in a row. I enjoy starting on a vignette and then adding pieces that appeal to me.

For this fall, I did not purchase any additional decorations or items. I used what I had on hand.

Here’s where the new fall pieces landed.

The Moon Mirror

This pretty mirror can hang on the wall or prop up on a shelf or dresser top. It’s versatile enough, and the design subtle enough, that I can use this mirror year around in different parts of the house.

I chose to hang the moon mirror on the wall, above my small bookcase that sits between the living and dining areas.

I redid the whole bookcase, changing the look to fall. The black lantern is from the spring 2020 Decocrated box and the woven basket from the fall 2020 box. That’s one of the fun aspects of the boxes. The items mix and match with previous or new Decocrated pieces, as well as with items you already have.

Click this link for more about the small crescent moon art.

Welcome to Fall with Decocrated mirror — Welcome to Fall with Decocrated – moon mirror

Wooden Ladder and Leaf Print Tea Towel

The tall shelves in the dining room became home to the wooden ladder and one of the two tea towels in the box. This little wooden ladder is cute! It free stands or props against a wall.

I draped the leaf print towel over one of the rungs and added a simple orange berry wreath. Joining in this vignette are the metal clock and metal and wood arch from the summer Decocrated box, the flocked pumpkins from last fall’s box and the wooden lantern from the Christmas 2020 add-on box.

The second shelf holds an assortment of items I already own.

Welcome to Fall with Decocrated ladder — Welcome to Fall with Decocrated – wooden ladder and leaf print tea towel

Metal Pumpkin, Wood and Metal Candle Holders, Wooden Beads, Web Tea Towel and Art Card

The rest of the new items grouped together on my little dining room table.

The black and white fabric runner from last fall and the gray and white wooden runner from spring 2021 form the foundation for the rest of the pieces. I tucked the cute spider web tea towel into last fall’s crate and filled it with orange, cream and gray fabric mini pumpkins. The sign on the crate is interchangeable with the Harvest Moon one, currently hanging in my rustic box. (See photo above.) For Halloween, I swap out those plaques.

At the other end of the wooden runner is the clip frame, from the spring box, holding the art card with a fall quote. On the reverse side, the card features a full Harvest Moon. That side is perfect for Halloween.

Next to the art card is the dark green metal pumpkin with a wooden stem. The pumpkin looks so cute with the colorful wooden beads draped over it. Those beads will find a place to rest year around.

And finally, taking center stage, are the wood and metal candle holders. I absolutely love these items! The combo of wood and gold metal is beautiful. I’ll also use these year around, swapping out the color of candles. After dark last night, I lit the candles for a short time and they created a warm glow that the metal and wood reflected. It was so cozy.

Welcome to Fall with Decocrated table — Welcome to Fall with Decocrated – table top vignette

Get Your Fall Box

Do you enjoy this time of year too? And are you ready to decorate for fall?

Grab your fall Decocrated box and welcome in the season!

Click this link, Decocrated Fall Box, and use my code CINDYM15 to save $15 off the seasonal box or off of the yearly subscription.

Once you are a member, there are additional items that can be purchased from the online shop, and special boxes available too, like the upcoming Halloween and Christmas add-ons.

Enjoy this cozy season we are entering into. And share your fall decorating ideas in the comments below!

Welcome to Fall with Decocrated shelves — Welcome to Fall with Deocrated – small bookcase

Cindy Goes Beyond is an affiliate with Decocrated Curated Home. I may earn a commission for items purchased through my links, all at no extra cost to you.

August 27, 2021

Create a Travel Medical Kit

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

Often when we travel, we do so with a sense of joyful abandonment. No rules, no schedules, no work to slow us down. It’s exhilarating. However, that freedom from our “regular” life sometimes includes ditching our established health routines too.

I discovered quickly that maintaining my health while traveling is essential to my wellbeing. If I eat poorly, or stop the supplements, I can quickly feel bad. And that’s not the way I want to spend my trip…feeling bad or experiencing pain.

I carry specific health related items with me when I travel. And I only travel with a carry on, so I’ve pared down what I take with me to the most important to keep my health and energy at optimal levels.

Check out how to create a travel medical kit, personalized to your needs, that can see you through the days of travel.

Possible Items for a Travel Medical Kit

These are possibilities for creating your own kit. Important questions to ask yourself…

Am I traveling solo? Who is traveling with me? Are children traveling with me too?

Here is a broad list of possible items to consider for a travel medical kit:

pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, tension relief
sleep aids, eye mask, melatonin gummies
CBD products
essential oils
herbal supplements, multi-vitamin, Voke Superfoods
prescription meds
over the counter meds – sinus meds, allergy meds, UTI meds, decongestant, eyedrops, cough drops, cough relief, menstrual cramp relief, salves
sunscreen, sunburn relief
insect repellent, bug bite ointment, anti-itch ointment
bandaids, bandages
antibacterial ointments
hand sanitizer
sanitizing wipes
face masks
tweezers, small scissors, nail clippers
digital thermometer, blood pressure cuff, blood glucose monitor
antacids, heartburn relief, diarrhea meds, motion sickness tabs, upset stomach meds
rubbing alcohol, Witch Hazel, peroxide
cotton balls, cotton swabs
soothing lotions – eczema cream, diaper rash lotion, rash relief

Create a Travel Medical Kit voke — Create a Travel Medical Kit – Voke Superfoods tablets are one of my essentials for international travel

Create a Travel Medical Kit That Meets Your Needs

Of course, you probably don’t need to pack all of the above items. Choose what is most important to maintain your health. Everyone’s needs are different.

I travel light. Currently, I don’t take any prescription meds. A friend of mine, however, travels with two suitcases. One carries her clothing and the other, all of her meds and supplements. That’s what works best for her.

Depending on suitcase space and your health needs, choose the items that are essential. I don’t group my essentials together in a separate bag or container. Instead, I tuck items among my clothes, into shoes and alongside toiletries. Whether I’m traveling through Italy for 12 days or spending a long weekend somewhere, my essential health items go with me.

My Travel Medical Kit

Here are the items that I consider essential for my health and wellbeing. These items accompany me on all trips.

Pain Relief

I carry travel sized ibuprofen and acetaminophen in my purse. I occasionally have severe headaches. Years ago, my dentist gave me a valuable tip. For moderate to severe pain, take a combination of three ibuprofen and two acetaminophen. The combo works like a pain pill for me, but without the drowsiness or side effects.

And I love the Hilma products. They provide natural relief, for tight muscles or tension headaches. And the indoor/outdoor relief is wonderful for natural sinus congestion and allergen relief. Click links above to order Hilma.

Create a Travel Medical Kit Hilma — Create a Travel Medical Kit – Hilma Products

Supplements

Cat’s Claw
MSM
Magnesium
Comfort Guard
GLOW Complex

I take more supplements than these when at home. These though support joint and muscles health. After many years of chronic sciatica, I can still experience stiff, tight muscles in my legs, especially when walking for hours. The first four supplements listed above keep my legs working well and comfortable. The Comfort Guard is THE best supplement for reducing pain and inflammation. I love the combination of turmeric, ginger and boswellia.

And GLOW Complex is an amazing plant based collagen builder that also supplies a host of essential vitamins and minerals including B12, which is so important to keep my energy up.

Order Comfort Guard and GLOW in the links at end of post.

Over the Counter

Witch Hazel (carried in a small TSA approved bottle)
bandaids
antibiotic cream
Prid (a soothing drawing salve)
sunscreen
cotton balls and cotton swabs

Witch Hazel makes an ideal soother for scrapes, insect bites and cuts. Plus I use it for a toner after washing my face.

Prid is a drawing salve that I don’t like to be without. It relieves bug bites, spider bites, boils and ingrown hairs.

Protection

cloth face masks
SkinShield2 hand sanitizing lotion

I’m fully vaccinated. Otherwise I wouldn’t be traveling at all. I still take cloth masks wherever I go, for the best protection. And in addition to social distancing and washing my hands frequently, I use SkinShield2, a protective antibacterial skin barrier lotion. A small amount of lotion kills germs, viruses and bacteria on contact and protects my hands for hours. Click link above to order yours.

Create a Travel Medical Kit - protection — Create a Travel Medical Kit – protection

Miscellaneous

peppermint tea bags
Incrediwear knee sleeve

My favorite tea goes with me. I tuck a few tea bags in my purse and more in my carry on. Peppermints soothes the whole digestive system and boosts spirits and mood.

The Incrediwear knee sleeve is a “just in case” item. Occasionally I twist my left knee and it reacts immediately with pain, swelling and inflammation.

Incrediwear products work by increasing blood flow to the injured joint, to reduce inflammation and swelling. They also relieve pain and accelerate recovery. Rather than using compression, Incrediwear products incorporate semiconductor elements within the fabric that release negative ions when stimulated by body heat. Read more about this amazing sleeve HERE.

What Will Go in Your Travel Medical Kit?

While it may look like a lot of items to carry, my essentials fit easily within my carry on and purse/backpack. I feel good knowing I have what I need to support my body and health during my travels.

What health items are essential for you? Do you have a standard set of items that go wherever you go? Share them in the comments!

Want to Know How I Pack a Carry On?

Check out this post for my packing tips, to travel light.

Health Boosting Finds for Travel from Amazon:

Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.

August 20, 2021

Eco-Friendly Travel Practices

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

I love traveling, for so many reasons. And I feel strongly about taking care of the planet, for so many reasons as well.

Often, these two desires wage war with each other, as travel can impact the earth economically, socially and environmentally. Some of those impacts are positive. And some, not so much. Approximately 1.2 BILLION people travel internationally every year…when we are not in a global pandemic. And while travel and tourism contribute to the global economy, it often comes at the expense of the environment and local communities.

For me, part of embracing a more sustainable lifestyle includes adopting eco-friendly travel practices.

What is Eco-Friendly Travel?

Eco-friendly, or sustainable, travel encompasses more than just minimizing the impact on the environment. Sustainable travel seeks to create a balance between economic growth, environmental health and the wellbeing of people and communities.

It’s a dance of reducing the negative impact of tourism while maximizing the positive benefits for cultures, communities, the ecology and ultimately, the planet.

After more than a year of decreased travel, due to COVID, we have fresh opportunities, as travelers, to make a difference and choose more sustainable ways of seeing the world. As we look to explore again, put these eco-friendly travel practices in place.

Skip the Touristy Places

Before COVID halted travel, some popular tourist destinations experienced “overtourism”. Continual streams of visitors caused damage to historic sites, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, nature areas and cities.

When travel opens again fully, try visiting places less well known. And I get it. We all have places on our travel bucket lists and we long to visit them. See them if you must, perhaps during the off season. However, consider avoiding the crowds and seeking out smaller cities, little known villages and other more rural areas.

The benefits of tourism are shared with more communities that way, without overburdening and actually harming the tourist hot spots.

Support the Local Economy

Wherever you go, be there, as the saying goes, and really experience the place. Immerse yourself in the culture. Learn a few words of the language. Get to know the people. And support the local economy.

Shop there, in locally owned stores. Eat meals in quaint cafes, prepared from regionally sourced foods. Visit the city market and enjoy wares made by community artisans. Book excursions led by tour guides native to the area. They know the rich stories behind the historic sites.

Eco-Friendly Travel Practices support locally — Eco-friendly travel practices – support locally. Seeds for the Soul Vegan Cafe, a locally owned restaurant in Edinburgh

Support Eco-Friendly Tour Companies

When desiring a tour, while visiting a community, look for eco-friendly tour companies. Often the money spent with these companies goes back into the community or into local conservation and environmental projects.

Local tour companies arrange smaller travel groups, set up local accommodations and hire people from the community to lead the tours. It’s a win/win all the way around. It helps to keep tourism money in the town and with the people, where it is most needed.

Eco-Friendly Transportation

Among modes of transportation, flying produces the most carbon emissions per passenger. Often, however, flying is the only way to reach a destination. Try these tips to lessen the impact:

use non stop flights when you can, rather than breaking the flight up. Direct flights are more fuel efficient.
travel light. The more luggage loaded onto a plane, the heavier it is, and the more carbon emissions produced.
take advantage of carbon offset programs (see next tip)
look for airlines that use renewable biofuels

When you can, travel by train or bus. It saves fuel and it’s a great way to see the countryside. And ride together, or carpool, when driving a car.

While in a city, walk as much as possible, to save fuel and really get to know the community. It’s great exercise for the visitor too. Use the hop on/hop off buses to get an overview of the city or rent bicycles and explore that way.

Eco-Friendly Travel Practices transportation — Eco-friendly travel practices – hop on/hop off buses

Offset Carbon Emissions

One way to reduce the impact of flying is to use a carbon offset program.

These programs give airline passengers the option of investing in carbon reduction projects to help reduce or neutralize the carbon footprint caused by their travel.

Currently, there are 30+ international airlines participating in carbon offset programs. Select this option when purchasing tickets through the airline website. It costs a few extra dollars. However, those funds go toward reducing carbon and greenhouse gases. One project may protect rainforests while another builds wind farms.

Check out the best Carbon Offset Programs HERE.

Carry Your Own Water Container

I stress this tip often, and for good reason. Every year, 8 MILLION metric tons of plastic ends up in our oceans. Imagine one garbage truck full of plastics dumping into the ocean every single minute of every day. And one of the leading culprits is the plastic water bottle.

Plastic, whether dumped into the ocean or buried in a landfill, takes HUNDREDS of years to break down. It’s causing great harm to the earth and its inhabitants.

It’s such an easy switch to carry a metal water container rather than a plastic water bottle. In my home we fill our metal water containers from a filtered water pitcher in the fridge. Or you can use your refrigerator’s filtered water system.

Wherever you go, take your water container. Mine accompanies me everywhere, even on international trips. Security allows an empty container through. Then you can fill it while in the airport and carry it onto the plane. Another simple way to eliminate plastic? Refuse straws at restaurants.

Eco-Friendly Travel Practices — Eco-friendly travel practices – carry a metal water container

Eco-Friendly Hotel Tips

When possible, stay at accommodations that are certified “eco-friendly”. Then use this tips:

treat your accommodations like home, saving energy as you would there
turn off lights and electronics when leaving or sleeping
lower heat or raise air conditioning while away or sleeping
take showers rather than baths
bring your own toiletries from home
in countries where weather is mild, opt to open a window if possible, rather than using air conditioning
hang up towels to dry and reuse…AND…
hang the “do not disturb” sign on door to prevent housekeeping from changing sheets daily, cutting down on energy used to wash towels and sheets
stay in an Airbnb or a self serve apartment, so you can prep meals and wash your own laundry
in a hotel, wash out clothes in the sink and hang to dry
purchase a multi-purpose electrical plug for use in international countries

Eco-Friendly Travel Hacks

when traveling, carry liquids in a reusable ziplock bag
carry snacks in small metal canisters
pack cloth totes and bags, for use while shopping, to eliminate use of plastic shopping bags
shop for food in local markets to prepare in apartment or Airbnb kitchen
travel with a capsule wardrobe, to travel light
“shop” for travel clothes from your own closet
carry reusable eating utensils
use bar soaps and bar shampoo and conditioners, to travel light and to eliminate plastic bottles
bring your own earbuds on the plane and pass on the airline ones
carry on your own wrap or jacket to double as a blanket and your own travel pillow on flights
eat in a restaurant, when possible, rather than ordering carryout, to eliminate plasticware and foam containers

Eco-Friendly Travel Practices hotel — I prefer apartments like this one on Thistle Street in Edinburgh, for their full kitchens and washers and dryers.

Which Eco-Friendly Travel Practices Will You Adopt?

I hope you discovered eco-friendly tips to try out during your next trip. I’m putting these practices in place in my life. Not only do I want to enjoy travel and lessen my negative impact on the world, I want my children and grandchildren to get to travel as well. By my example, I’m teaching them to travel sustainably. As I learn new practices and discover new eco-friendly companies to partner with, I’ll share them.

Which of these practices will you embrace?

And if you have other eco-friendly travel tips, please share them in the comments!

Travel Helps from Amazon:

August 16, 2021

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

August 17 is National Thrift Shop Day. This day brings awareness to supporting local thrift stores, especially those that charitably help people in their communities.

For us, the consumer, there are good reasons to regularly stop by thrift stores, resale shops and charitable organizations’ “closets”. Check out these five benefits of thrift shopping.

The History of Thrift Shops

Thrift shops didn’t always exist. Up until about 100 years ago, people routinely repurposed old clothing. When children outgrew clothes, those garments were handed down to younger siblings. Additionally, old clothes were recut to create new garments. Dad’s shirt might become junior’s shorts. Mom’s dress made a cute miniature version for sis. Eventually, when repurposing an item simply wasn’t possible any longer, those old clothes became rags for cleaning or recycled into furniture stuffing. Nothing went to waste.

Enter the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century. Clothing production increased dramatically. Buying new clothes happened more frequently. Old clothing ended up in scrap yards. The Salvation Army and Goodwill changed that story.

In 1897 The Salvation Army launched the “salvage brigade”, sending people out scouring neighborhoods for used clothing, in return for meals and lodging. And in 1902 a Boston Methodist minister founded Goodwill, hiring poor and disabled people to collect used clothing and repair them for resale. Initially these thrift shops provided immigrants with a place to find clothes. Over the years thrifting became popular as people hunted for bargains and treasures.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping

Joplin has four thrift shops that provide for others in the community, through the resale of items. Plus, we have consignment shops, such as Plato’s Closet, and charitable “clothing closets” where people who need clothes can shop for free.

Thrifting is fun. Since these shops rely on donations, you never know what treasures or bargains await when entering the store. You might find a collectible, an expensive garment with the original price tag attached, for a fraction of the cost, or the perfect items for a one-of-a-kind Halloween costume. The daring shopper can even create her own unique fashion style.

However, beyond the thrill of the hunt, thrift shopping…also called thrifting…is beneficial. Here are five benefits of thrift shopping that you might be unaware of.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping Goodwill — Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping – Goodwill Store in Joplin

Thrift Shopping Benefits the Environment

Did you know that the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothes, every year? That means that annually, 26 billion pounds of clothing end up in landfills. And they sit there for many, many years.

We live in the age of cheap clothing and fast fashion, resulting in a throwaway mentality. After a season…or even after wearing a garment a couple of times… we toss it.

Thrifting is recycling. By purchased pre-owned clothing over new trends that quickly fade, we shrink our carbon footprint. We use less of the resources that creating new clothing uses up. And we keep items out of landfills. Best of all, when we no longer want a thrift item, we simply donate it to another thrift store so it stays in use.

I love Toad&Co as an eco-friendly clothing company that not only creates durable clothes that last for many years, they encourage the donation of items no longer wanted. They also wash, repair and renew old Toad clothes and keep them in circulation. Shop Renewed Toad.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping Red Racks — Joplin has two locations for Red Racks Thrift Stores, a division of DAV

Thrift Shopping Benefits the Community

Many thrift shops offer benefits to the community. Some hire and train people to work in the shops. Others fund a charity or mission or offer free or low priced clothing to those in need.

When we donate garments or other household items we benefit the community. And when we shop in thrift stores, we benefit the community as well by keeping our dollars local where they can do the most good.

I regularly donate to a ministry that operates a clothing closet. Anyone in need may visit and shop for free. This shop is especially popular when school starts back up.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping DAV bins — Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping – DAV collection bins, benefitting disabled American veterans.

Thrift Shopping Benefits the Planet

Buying second hand clothing reduces the amount of new clothing produced. Mass production of fast fashion often comes with human risks. The highest risk people are women, children and the impoverished who work long hours in poor working conditions for very low wages.

It’s always important to shop for ethically produced clothing, when purchasing new items. Buying recycled clothing takes ethical practices to the highest level.

Plus, thrifting reduces the chemical pollution in the world. Creating and shipping new clothes contaminates surface and groundwater and pollutes the air.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping Disney — Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping – recycling saves the planet’s resources and protects people. I saw this Disney shirt at Goodwill today, for $2.99

Thrift Shopping Benefits Your Wallet

Compared to retail clothing stores, thrift stores offer very low prices. Plus thrift shops often have discount days or fill a bag days, dropping prices even lower.

I wandered through my local Goodwill today, just to see what was available for sale. I spied the Disney shirt, for $2.99, a J. Crew dress for $4.99 and an assortment of garments from name brands such as Levi, Lee, Old Navy, Cato and Worthington…all for under $6.00.

I didn’t buy anything today. However I’ve snagged bargains at my local thrift shops. And they are my go to stores when I need a Halloween costume or an item I don’t often use, such as a rain jacket.

For my 62 Outrageous Things to Do for My 62nd Birthday, I enjoyed a fun thrifting trip. I took a $20 bill into Goodwill and left with a new to me outfit: slacks, shirt and a unique jacket.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping $20 — My under $20 outfit from Goodwill, that was part of my 62nd Birthday game.

Thrift Shopping Benefits Creativity

Shopping regularly at thrift shops allows us to create one of a kind wardrobes. Who wants to look like everyone else? I don’t.

Buying used clothing not only reduces the production of new items and prevents waste, it allows the purchaser to stand out creatively, fashion wise. It’s a fun challenge to pull together an outfit from a wide assortment of vintage and used clothing.

Some of my favorite wardrobe items came from thrift shops. And I still have them and wear them.

Personally, thrifting also taught me the value of slow fashion and keeping garments out of landfills. In the past, I’ve purchased new clothes for trips. The last few years, not so much. In fact, for my upcoming trip I decided to only shop…out of my OWN closet. I’m putting together new looks, and new outfits, from articles of clothing that I don’t normally pair together. It’s fun and it shows me that truly, I don’t need to purchase a thing. Watch for an upcoming post highlighting my travel outfits.

Making a Difference

One day, a couple of years ago, I sat in my car outside a local clothing closet, after dropping off items. I happened to see a young girl, about eight years old, skip out to the car where her father waited.

She held up a small shopping bag, and proudly proclaimed to her dad that she had everything she needed to start school. I smiled over her genuine excitement…and my heart broke a little.

As they drove away, tears filled my eyes. The father seemed uncomfortable that his daughter picked up her school clothes at a charitable organization and yet he expressed gratitude too, for the help.

I asked, aloud, why I witnessed that interaction. The answer I immediately received was that only that morning, I asked to see compassion displayed in the world. Here was compassion given…to the girl and her father. And here was compassion stirring, in my heart, for the father’s plight and the daughter’s enthusiasm. I’ve continued to donate to that clothing closet, so that other children in need can go to school with something new to wear.

Do you thrift shop? Share with me your favorite shops and finds.

And do you donate the clothing you no longer want, to shops and charitable organizations? It makes a difference, in the world and in someone’s life…like that beautiful girl returning to school.

Five Benefits of Thrift Shopping J Crew — A J. Crew dress at Goodwill.

Check Out This Find from Amazon:

August 13, 2021

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

This post is a collaboration with Lawnstarter. They provided the stats from their Hipster City research and I added the info about each city.

Last month I received a fun email from LawnStarter about one of their studies. It featured the best cities for hipsters and I was immediately intrigued. After an exchange of emails, I received their permission to share the results of their study along with the criteria they used to determine which cities are the best for hipsters.

I’m adding some additional info and a brief overview of each of the top ten hipster cities in the US. Looking for a fun way to explore some of America’s best cities? This is your guide!

What Is a Hipster?

Hipsters are non-conformists, people who enjoy living outside the cultural mainstream. They value progressive, independent thinking, counter-culture, art and indie music and films, creativity, intelligence and witty banter.

Hipsters appreciate eco-friendly everything, thrift stores, vintage clothing and craft beers, among other things.

The term “hipster”, in its present form, first appeared in the 1990s and became prominent in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Although the meaning has shifted, Harlem jazz clubs of the 1940s created the word. The first hipster is recognized as Harry “the Hipster” Gibson, the stage name for a Juilliard trained musician.

The Criteria

LawnStarter compared 150 of the biggest US cities, based on anti-mainstream factors. Those factors were each assigned a number between 1-3. The cities were ranked based on their overall scores, out of 100 possible points.

Anti-Mainstream Factors:

Fashion

Thrift stores per 100,000 residents
Vintage clothing and consignment shops per 100,000 residents
Tattoo parlors per 100,000 residents
Barber shops per 100,000 residents – many male hipsters sport a beard or mustache

Lifestyle

Environmental consciousness – includes sustainability and eco-friendly lifestyle
Biking friendliness
Car free living
Yoga studios per 100,000 residents

Culture

Record stores per 100,000 residents
Music venues per 100,000 residents
Antique shops per 100,000 residents
Local flavor spots per 100,000 residents – local flavor refers to places unique to that city
Art galleries per 100,000 residents
Art events per 100,000 residents

Food and Drink

Locavore friendliness – locavore refers to eating foods sourced from the local region
Urban garden friendliness – co-op gardening where the whole community benefits
Vegan and vegetarian restaurants per 100,000 residents
Farmer’s markets per 100,000 residents
Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods locations per 100,000 residents
Coffee roasteries per 100,000 residents
Craft breweries per 100,000 residents
Dive bars per 100,000 residents

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US

And here we go. Based on the criteria above, the top ten hipster cities in the US are…

1. San Francisco, CA

This city is the cultural, commercial and financial center in Northern California.

With a population of 873,965 as of 2020, it is the 4th largest city in the state and the 16th largest in the US.

San Francisco is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep streets, cable cars and Alcatraz.

It ranked high in bike friendliness, local flavor spots and the culture and lifestyle categories.

Fun fact: The gold rush that began in 1848 resulted in many ships left abandoned in the port. The city tore the ships apart and repurposed them for homes, banks and businesses.

2. Portland, OR

Portland sits on the Columbia and Williamette Rivers, in the shadow of snow capped Mount Hood.

With a population of 662,549 as of 2020, it ranks 1st in the state and the 27th largest city in the US.

Portland is famous for green parks, bridges and bicycle paths, eco-friendliness and its microbreweries and coffeehouses.

It ranked high in bike friendliness, vintage clothing, craft beers, vinyl records, vegan and vegetarian foods and specialty coffees.

Fun fact: The city founders couldn’t agree on a name for the community, in 1842. They flipped a coin to determine whether the city name became Boston…or Portland. Visitors can view the Portland Penny at the Oregon Historical Society downtown.

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US San Francisco — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #1 San Francisco. Photo Canva

3. Oakland, CA

Oakland sits on the east side of the San Francisco Bay.

With a population of 435,224 as of 2020, Oakland is the 8th largest city in California and the 45th largest in the US.

Oakland is famous for its sports teams, the Oakland Raiders and Golden State Warriors, renewable energy, diversity (one of the top five most diverse cities in the US) and local foods.

It ranked high in the food category, yoga and specialty coffees on the hipster scale.

Fun fact: Lake Merritt in Oakland has a sea monster in it. Sightings began in the 1940s. According to witnesses, the beast is a Loch Ness style creature with humps, spikes and a long tongue. The best place to catch a glimpse of the Oak Ness Monster is from the docks of the Lake Chalet Restaurant.

4. Fort Lauderdale, FL

This city is on Florida’s southeastern coast.

With a population of 182,760 as of 2020, it is the 10th largest city in Florida and the 142nd largest in the US.

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches and boating canals, The Strip…a promenade running along oceanside highway A1A, upscale outdoor restaurants, boutiques and luxury hotels.

It ranked high for urban gardening, vintage clothing and consignment shops, and in the culture and food and drink categories.

Fun fact: Due to its many canals, Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America”. Bonus fact: This city and I share a name. My maiden name is Lauderdale.

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US Fort Lauderdale — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #4 Fort Lauderdale Photo Unsplash Debby Hudson

5. Jersey City, NJ

Jersey City lies in northeastern New Jersey. Its eastern waterfront faces the Hudson River where it meets Upper New York Bay.

With a population of 292,449 as of 2020, it’s the 2nd largest city in New Jersey and the 87th largest in the US.

Jersey City is famous for Liberty Island National Park that includes Ellis Island Immigration Station, the views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan, being the Diner Capital of the Country with 525 diners, its iconic Colgate Clock and an incredible food and art scene.

The city ranked high for art events and the fashion, culture and lifestyle categories.

Fun fact: In spite of New York having legal jurisdiction over her, the Statue of Liberty is actually in Jersey City.

6. Tempe, AZ

Tempe is located just east of Phoenix. Rising above the city is Hayden Butte, a mountain dotted with centuries old rock art.

With a population of 203,923 as of 2020, Tempe is the 8th largest city in Arizona and the 117th largest in the US.

Tempe is famous for Tempe Town Lake, Tempe Beach Park, one of the longest standing juried arts festivals in the state, and 100+ bohemian shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs in the downtown area.

Tempe ranked high in the arts and the fashion, food and drink and culture categories.

Fun fact: The city is named after the Vale of Tempe in Greece, a gorge located between Olympus and Ossa.

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US Tempe — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #5 Jersey City Photo Unsplash Uvi D

7. Huntington Beach, CA

Huntington Beach is located southeast of Los Angeles.

With a population of 197,417 as of 2020, it is the 23rd largest city in California and the 127th largest in the US.

It is famous for surf beaches, Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Central Park and Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve with its wetlands and dunes that shelter hundreds of bird species.

Huntington Beach ranked high in art events, urban gardening, number of Trader Joe and Whole Foods locations and the fashion category.

Fun fact: Huntington Beach Pier extends 1,850 feet, from Main Street into the Pacific Ocean. Ruby’s Diner sits at the end of the pier. It is an extremely popular restaurant with surfers.

8. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, on the island of Oahu’s south shore, is the capital of Hawaii and the gateway to the island chain.

With a population of 341,302 as of 2020, Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii and the 57th largest in the US.

Honolulu is famous for its iconic crescent shaped Waikiki Beach backed by palm trees and high rise hotels, Diamond Head volcanic crater and Pearl Harbor.

Honolulu ranked high in art events, local flavor spots and the lifestyle and culture categories.

Fun fact: The only royal palace in the US, Iolani Palace is located on Oahu. The palace had electricity before the White House did, and was the first palace in the world to contain flushing toilets.

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US Huntington Beach — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #7 Huntington Beach Photo Unsplash Steady Hand Co

9. Providence, RI

This capital city of Rhode Island is home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

With a population of 180,609 as of 2020, Providence is the largest city in Rhode Island and the 145th largest in the US.

Providence is famous for its beautiful outdoor spaces, historic spots and the delicious food in its Little Italy area.

Providence ranked high in the food and drink, culture and fashion categories.

Fun fact: Providence has the most coffee and donut shops, per capita, of any city in the country.

10. New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is located in southern Louisiana on the Mississippi River near the Gulf of Mexico. Its nickname is the “Big Easy”.

With a population of 388,424 as of 2020, New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana and the 53rd largest in the US.

New Orleans is famous for its round-the-clock nightlife, live music scene, spicy cuisine, Mardi Gras and its blend of French, African and American cultures.

It ranked high in local flavor spots and the cultural and food and drink categories.

Fun fact: Lake Pontchartrain Causeway near New Orleans is the longest continuous bridge in the world, as declared by Guinness World Records. It is 28,543 feet long.

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US New Orleans — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #10 New Orleans Photo Unsplash Caleb George

Which Hipster Cities Have You Visited?

So…do you consider yourself a hipster?

I believe I am! The definition certainly fits me, especially this year with my Wild Woman theme. Read my Wild Woman Manifesto.

On this list, I’ve only traveled to New Orleans, twice. It’s one of my favorite US cities to visit with its rich culture, beautiful architecture and fascinating stories.

What fun to go on a big adventure, visiting all ten of these hipster cities. I’m definitely interested!

And speaking of visiting, pop over to see LawnStarter’s study post HERE on hipster cities. They have other fun studies too such as Best Cities for Cat Lovers and Best Cities for Carless Weekend Trips.

LawnStarter is a startup company that makes lawn care easy, affordable and reliable. They have a blog for lawn care…and these fun studies.

Which of these ten hipster cities have you visited? And which one would you most like to explore?

Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US Honolulu — Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US – #8 Honolulu Photo Unsplash Cosmin Serban

Fun Hipster Books from Amazon:

August 9, 2021September 19, 2021

True Stock Studios

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

I have an affiliate relationship with True stock studios. All opinions are my own.

I love discovering the story behind a company or brand. Don’t you? I like to know their vison and mission and what motivates them to do what they do.

When Jason with True Stock Studios contacted me about a collaboration, I visited his website before responding. After reading through info there and scrolling through art pieces, it was an easy yes to working together. And not just because the request came in during my Yes! Month.

The wooden signs are not only beautifully made, the company goes beyond providing a product. They enrich the lives of others.

Company Origins

True Stock Studios, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a family business. Jason Schickerling founded his venture in 2018 when his daughter asked him to carve a lotus flower on a black wooden background. Always one to enjoy woodworking, Jason complied and inspiration struck. True Stock Studios was born. The lotus flower design continues to be one of their most popular art pieces.

The company is committed to creating their art sustainably and responsibly as well. They partner with global eco-projects like the Pachama Jari Para Forest Conservation Project. True Stock Studios offsets carbon emissions with voluntary carbon credit contributions that counteract the impact of shipping their art. I love that they create art AND care for the planet at the same time.

My wooden art from True Stock Studios

True Stock Studios Mission and Vision

Jason now oversees a diverse and creative team. His mission is to create beautiful wooden art decor that inspires and enriches lives, and not only for the people who buy them. True Stock Studios donates a portion of sales to charities that are customer chosen! Charities such as Feeding America, Black Lives Matters and Unicef benefit from the company’s desire to enrich others.

Connected to their mission, True Stock Studios envisions a better and more socially just world. Everyone who purchases a product gets to make an impact in the world too by choosing which charity they want to support. Making a difference in the world is what this amazing company is all about.

Moments — I tried my wooden art in several vignettes.

Crescent Moon Desk Art

Jason allowed me to select a piece of art from his studio. Believe me, it was a difficult choice as there are so many beautiful, meaningful pieces.

As I scrolled through art, I said aloud to myself, “If there’s anything with a moon on it, that’s what I’m choosing.” There are two available! The Moon Over the Mountains appealed to my adventurous side. However I ended up selecting Crescent Moon.

As you know, if you’ve followed me for a while, every year I choose a word/theme for the year and a symbol. For my Year of the Wild Woman, the moon is my symbol. The moon carries great significance for me. I love this True Stock Studios art piece as a visual reminder of who I am this year.

This is a small wooden desk top piece, perfect for tucking into vignettes or displaying on a shelf, bookcase or table. I immediately connected my gold metal “dream” art with the moon piece. Check out how I styled Crescent Moon in the photos in this post, beginning with the collect beautiful moments grouping above. And then guess where I ended up placing it.

True Stock Studios dream — Swapping out the stack of books for a metal lantern and candle

Ways to Enjoy Art from True Stock Studios

Before I reveal where my wooden art piece ended up, let me share some ideas for ways you can enjoy True Stock Studios products.

These pieces are so easy to incorporate into your own home decor. Try them in:

vignettes…my favorite way of creating a display that tells a story
bookcases and on table and shelf tops
wall hangings and gallery style groupings
office or studio
family room, dining room or kitchen
bedroom
nursery shelf, wall or bookcase
child’s room
teen’s room
college student dorm room
covered front porch or sunroom
yoga studio or workout room
holiday decor…True Stock Studios offers fun holiday themed art as well

Plus, wooden art makes wonderful gifts. Give these beauties as:

birthday gifts for all ages
Christmas, Valentine’s…any holiday! Labor Day gift anyone?
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifts
home warming gift
wedding gift (they can even be personalized)
anniversary gift
baby gift (again, think personalized with the baby’s name)
graduation gift
retirement gift
congratulations gift
moving away keepsake gift
bff gift
vacation reminder
boss or coworker gift
“I deserve this” gift for yourself

Or, like me, choose something that carries meaning for you, inspires a dream, motivates change or simply warms the heart.

Table top vignette — Swapped out the candle holder for a gold canister

Purchase Your True Stock Studio Art

Head over to the company website HERE. Browse around.

The selection is amazing, the prices incredible and shipping is free and FAST. Like me, you’ll have a hard time deciding which piece to order first. And, I asked Jason, he can create custom art besides doing personalized pieces.

I’m excited about that! I’ve already talked to him about creating wooden art for me, for NEXT year’s symbol. More about what that symbol is, later.

I can save you some money too! Enter my discount code Cindy Goes Beyond at checkout and save 25%. This code is good for anything in the shop!

True Stock Studios shelf top — Shelf top vignette

Where Did Crescent Moon End Up?

So which vignette did you like, featuring Crescent Moon?

I loved them all, actually. Crescent Moon tried out various places in my home including my writing table in my studio and my bedroom, in addition to the vignettes on the dining table and the shelf top.

I can tuck this art piece into so many different nooks and vignettes, making it incredibly versatile. And, I know I’ll use it with my Halloween decor when October arrives.

As you can see from the photo below, Crescent Moon ended up in my bedroom. I moved the whole vignette with “dream” and the gold planter onto a vintage metal tray placed atop a little padded stool in my room.

Why?

Because my bedroom is my sanctuary. It’s where so many of my visions for the future, dreams and plans are birthed. That room, more than any other room in my house, supports who I am…and who I am becoming. Crescent Moon is perfect there, for now.

Which True Stock Studios wooden art piece do you like? And what will you do with it?

Bedroom vignette — Inspiring me as I dream…

August 6, 2021

Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

This London structure is so well known and iconic that it’s often used as the symbol for the city. The strikingly beautiful bridge demands attention as it spans the River Thames. And this one does NOT have a song written about it.

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks. And yet, how much do you know about it?

Check out these ten curiosities about London’s Tower Bridge, and find out!

Tower Bridge Stats

Before sharing the curious facts about Tower Bridge, let’s look at the amazing stats.

It took 432 construction workers eight years to build Tower Bridge. Due to London’s growing population, Tower Bridge was constructed to make it easier for people to cross the Thames. Construction began on June 21, 1886 and finished on June 30, 1894.

The bridge contains more than 11,000 tons of steel. The foundation needed 70,000 tons of concrete to adequately support the bridge. And the structure contains more than 31 million bricks and 2 million rivets.

At the time of construction, the cost was a staggering 1.84 million pounds. Today the cost equivalent equals 152 million pounds.

Now check out the curiosities.

Not That Bridge with a Song

Tower Bridge is frequently mistaken for London Bridge. That more plain bridge is located further upriver. Because Tower Bridge is so eye catching, it’s understandable that people think it’s London Bridge. I actually made that mistake myself, labeling Tower Bridge photos incorrectly when I returned home from my trip.

London Bridge dates back to 1176. The site has supported a succession of bridges, with the latest one completed in 1971. Read more about this structure HERE.

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge other one — Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge – it’s not the one with a song. This plain structure is London Bridge.

Design Competition

In 1876, the City of London held a competition for the design of the new bridge. Although architects submitted more than 50 designs, none were selected.

Finally, seven years later in 1884, architect Sir Horace Jones and civil engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry submitted a winning design. Sir Horace is also the architect behind some of London’s most beautiful buildings including Leadenhall Market, Smithfield Market and Billingsgate Market.

Sadly, Sir Horace died before his bridge was completed.

What are Bascules?

Tower Bridge is a levered bridge, meaning it opens up to allow for the passage of ships navigating down the river.

The two levered sections are called bascules, a French word meaning “see saw”. The 1,100 ton bascules, located in the center of the bridge, raise up to a 83 degree angle. It takes approximately five minutes for them to raise completely.

There’s a huge cavern beneath the bridge containing counterweights that operate the bridge. This unique space is sometimes used to host concerts, due to the incredible acoustics.

The bascules used to operate using coal burning steam engines. Currently a combination of oil and electricity power the levers.

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge bascules — Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge – bascules *Canva photo

Where Did the Name Come From?

Since London already had a namesake bridge, this structure needed a different name.

The Tower Bridge name comes from its proximity to the Tower of London, located just across the river. Although the bridge isn’t as old as it’s made to look, it does intentionally match the architecture of the famous, and much older, Tower of London.

Color Changes

The original Tower Bridge featured a drab brown exterior.

In 1977 the colors changed to red, white and blue to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Silver Jubilee. Since then the bridge has undergone another major facelift. Between 2008 and 2016 the bridge was painted the current colors of bright blue and white.

The bridge gets a facelift every 25 years.

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge — Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge – color changes

Prostitutes and Pickpockets

Originally, the bridge’s two high level walkways allowed pedestrians to cross when the bascules were open. However, people had to climb flights of stairs to use the walkways and then climb back down stairs in the opposite tower. Most preferred to simply wait for the ship to pass through.

The walkways fell into disrepair and became a sort of red light district in London. Ladies of the night and pickpockets gathered on the walkways, looking for business. The walkways closed in 1910, reopening later as part of the Tower Bridge Exhibition.

Glass Walkway

In 2014, the Tower Bridge Exhibition launched the Glass Walkway. The west high level walkway now features a glass bottom, where visitors can admire the bridge from a unique angle and watch pedestrians and ships passing below.

Special events, such as doggie days and even yoga classes, are held on the glass walkway. Yoga classes take place at sunrise, 42 meters above the River Thames.

Wedding Destination

You can also book the walkways for your special wedding…if you are willing to pay the hefty price. Tables are set up along the glass walkway, for a one of a kind reception after saying “I do”. The Tower Bridge Victorian engine rooms are also available for special receptions and events. Imagine the gorgeous photos!

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge night — Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge – imagine an evening wedding on the walkways! *Canva photo

Daring Feats

Tower Bridge has experienced some exciting moments.

In 1912 a pilot named Frank McClean flew his short biplane between the bascules and the walkways, during an emergency. He made it through without damaging the bridge or his airplane.

And Thomas Hans Orde-Lees jumped off the bridge in 1917, safely parachuting into the River Thames. He wanted to show the benefits of RAF pilots using parachutes. His stunt is considered the momentum for the founding of the Royal Parachute Regiment. Apparently there’s even a film of the stunt.

Most outrageous of all, a London double decker bus began crossing the bridge in 1952 as it suddenly started opening to allow a ship to pass through. Driver Albert Gunter stayed calm, pressed the pedal to the floor and jumped the widening gap. He made it safely.

Albert received a day off for his quick thinking and 10 pounds.

Right of Way

More than 40,000 people use the Tower Bridge every day, crossing on foot and in cars. However, ships on the river always have right of way. Ship captains must give the bridge 24 hours notice of their approach. And then everyone, no matter who they are, must wait for the bridge bascules to raise, the ship to pass through, and the bascules to lower again.

The bascules raise twice a day, on average, for the passage of ships. It’s considered lucky to see the levers rise.

You might catch the bascules raising on this London webcam.

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge 40000 — Ten Curiosities About London’s Tower Bridge – 40000 people use the bridge in a day

Experience the Bridge

It’s free to walk across Tower Bridge. If you want to explore the towers or snap photos from the glass walkway, there is a fee for that. Within the towers are interactive history exhibits. The admission fee includes a visit to the Victorian engine rooms as well.

Or you can admire the structure from several vantage points along the River Thames. We took photos from the nearby Tower of London. The bridge is definitely a gorgeous sight. I want to explore it further, on my next visit.

Did you learn anything new about Tower Bridge? What curiosity surprised you the most?

Ten Curiosities About London's Tower Bridge group shot — Our group shot with Tower Bridge in the background.

Tower Bridge Finds from Amazon:

August 2, 2021

Road to the Lemon Grove

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

A couple of months ago, I received info about a film set in Italy. I had opportunities to watch clips and listen in on interviews. I knew this film would go onto my “watch list” as soon as it became available. Perhaps because of my trip to Italy or perhaps because of the soulful journey in the story, I felt drawn to see Road to the Lemon Grove.

Now available for rent or purchase, I spent an afternoon viewing this comedy/drama. And I was right to anticipate it. I enjoyed this movie!

Road to the Lemon Grove Cast

The cast of Road to the Lemon Grove includes Burt Young, Rossella Brescia, Nick Mancuso and Charly Chiarelli.

Dale Hildebrand directs and co-wrote the screenplay with Chiarelli.

The film is unrated (I give it a PG-13 for mild language and brief nudity) and has a run time of 1 hour and 28 minutes.

Road to the Lemon Grove Calogero — Road to the Lemon Grove – Calogero Contatini

The Journey Home

Antonio Contatini (dual role by Chiarelli) stands before heaven’s gates, impatient for admittance. To his consternation, the old man discovers that his mission on Earth isn’t quite finished.

Before he can enter heaven, Antonio must make amends with his son, Calogero (also Chiarelli) and help settle a long running feud in the family. This mission proves difficult, as Calogero doesn’t want anything to do with his father, dead or alive. He wants his father’s spirit to leave him alone.

And Calogero, who is a university professor teaching linguistics, is just as cautious with his late mother’s side of the family. With Antonio gone, Calogero’s uncle Vincent (Young) and the rest of his mother’s family plot to take the lemon grove that they all left behind when they moved from Sicily, Italy.

Antonio lures Calogero back to Sicily, making his son promise to scatter his ashes in the lemon grove.

Road to the Lemon Grove ashes — Road to the Lemon Grove – father’s ashes

Love and Redemption Italian Style

Calogero reluctantly takes his father’s ashes to Sicily. He left Italy with his parents as a baby. His parents never returned home and Calogero experiences Italy for the first time.

As he drives to the tiny town where relatives on both sides of his family still live, he is struck by the beauty of his home country. He pauses to swim in the Mediterranean and thoughtfully walk along narrow streets in small villages. Calogero even bumps into his Italian movie star crush, Maria (Brescia). His ghostly father tries to set the two up, thinking it will make his son happy. The results are hilariously disastrous. However, Calogero and Maria become friends and she accompanies him to scatter the ashes in the lemon grove.

As Calogero travels deeper into the heart and soul of his homeland, Vincent’s son, Guido (Mancuso), arrives to prevent his cousin from claiming the inheritance. Vincent wants the grove and intends sell it. He isn’t afraid to use any means necessary to do so.

The final family confrontation comes down to an elaborate Italian meal and a walk to the lemon grove, where miracles sometimes happen.

Road to the Lemon Grove supper — Road to the Lemon Grove – sharing a meal

My Thoughts on Road to the Lemon Grove

I enjoyed this humorous film. At first it seemed LOUD to me, the way the Italian characters are portrayed. However, I quickly settled into the flow of the story and came to appreciate the intense dialogue and hand gesturing.

I love that Calogero’s classroom teachings about language and culture weave into the storyline, with reminders that America is built on the backs of immigrants from many countries, including Italy. And I savored the Italian landscapes, village streets and structures. There is such beauty throughout Italy. When I visited, we didn’t make it as far south as Sicily. I’d love to experience that region someday.

There are important messages shared in Road to the Lemon Grove, about family, love, culture, forgiveness and redemption. I noticed that as Calogero progresses closer to his family’s home village, he literally sheds his western clothes and persona. After stepping naked into the Mediterranean, he emerges reborn. He leaves most of his clothes behind…the overcoat, suit jacket and tie…traveling onward in a simple shirt and trousers. I love the symbolism.