Travel- Around the World Tickets

I have never done this but know people who have and would love to do it sometime. There are a number of agencies offering these tickets, such as One World. http://www.oneworld.com/ You can buy tickets based on miles and the number of stops. One World is a conglomerate of about 10 airlines on which you can fly and the cost of the ticket is based on the number of miles you travel and stops. For example, for about $4500 you can fly from New York to Los Angeles to Sydney to Perth to Johannesburg to London to New York. Or for about $5,900 you can fly from New York to Santiago, Chile to Sydney to Perth to Hong Kong to New York. The One World site is very helpful in answering all your questions and provides an interactive map to let you plan your itinerary. There are various limitations but all seem to be reasonable. I think travel needs to be completed in a year and you can only go in one direction. Once you start traveling west, you are not able to go back east. So if you are planning a holiday and can't decide where to go, choose them all and get a One World ticket.

Recipes- Crispy Orange Beef

Mrs. Captain John (Laura) Steen highly recommends www.allrecipes.com. And Laura knows recipes. Back when we were at North Georgia College and I was eating .99 cent Tostino's Pizza's Laura was preparing grilled portabello mushrooms with balsamic vinegar and roasted red peppers. Oh! and Spaghetti Casserole. We did have that little cornish hen incident, but for the most part her dishes were always very good and very healthy. This site allows you to search by ingredient, convert to metric or recalculate the number of servings. Recipes are also graded on a star scale and users are able to write reviews on each recipe. Creating an online profile will allow you to add recipes to your collection, create a grocery list and make comments for yourself or others to see. Each recipe also has the nutrition information listed. Laura recommends Crispy Orange Beef. She says the recipe calls for 2 cups of oil but says, "No way" and suggests using a little olive oil. I plan to try it with Tofu.

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 pounds beef top sirloin, thinly sliced
1/3 cup white sugar
1/3 cup rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 cup long grain rice
2 cups water
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 teaspoons orange zest
3 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
8 broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
2 cups oil for frying

DIRECTIONS
Lay beef strips out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Allow to dry in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, rice vinegar, orange juice concentrate, salt and soy sauce. Set aside.
Meanwhile, combine rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Add more water at the end if necessary.
Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Toss dried beef in cornstarch to coat. Fry in the hot oil in small batches until crispy and golden brown; set aside. Drain all of the oil from the wok except about 1 tablespoon.
Add orange zest, ginger and garlic to the remaining oil, and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the soy sauce mixture to the wok, bring to a boil, and cook until thick and syrupy, about 5 minutes. Add beef, and heat through, stirring to coat. Serve immediately over steamed rice, and garnish with broccoli.

Digital Photos

After a whole lot of shopping around for the best site for digital photo development and shipping, I always go back to winkflash. They have 8 cent prints all the time and I am pretty sure .99 cent shipping. The have good prices on enlargements, cards and photo books and have great sales. A few times a year they will offer 50% off photo books, off their already fairly low prices. Other sites might offer 8 cent prints, but you have to purchase a minimum and shipping is not often .99 cents. You need to download their photo transporter (typical with most photos sites) and although it is not the most asthetically pleasing and user friendly site, the prices can't be beat. I also usually get them really quickly. You can share your online albums with others as well. www.winkflash.com

Clothing-Running Shoes

This entry is really not that exciting. The thoughts of running are just painful and make my legs hurt just thinking about it. But still I do it, even this morning. I love it and I hate it. Good running shoes are a must have for any runner at most any level. I spent an afternoon at Phidippides (www.phidippides.com) in Ansley Mall to discover these shoes. I tried on about 10-12 different pairs of shoes, was observed as I jogged up and down the store and this pair won hands down. I am sure Saucony has a newer more improved version by now, but these for me will be hard to beat and I have miles to go before I wear these out. They have incredible cushioning support and you do feel as if you are on air, for the first 60 seconds or so, until the pain and gasping for air settles in. But I do really recommend them. I also recommend Phidippides, but they are kind of like the My Intimacy experience, but you don't take your shirt off. I guess you could, but I wouldn't if I were you. But they do welcome bare feet. They just don't mark things down or have sales. This is not a discount store. They have some sales on last season stuff, but nothing good. I do recommend buying them online, at http://www.pricegrabber.com/ , www.amazon.com or at the Saucony outlet store. I got mine at their outlet store in Virginia. You should be able to get them online for around $80.00. These are Saucony ProGrid Triump 4. One thing of note is that I could not wear thick socks with them. I had to invest in the thinner dri fit kind and absolutely cannot wear any type of regular sock without getting blisters. But other than that, this is a great running shoe.

Reading-Garden & Gun

21st Century Southern America-Garden & Gun is a southern lifestyle magazine that's all about the magic of the New South — the sporting culture, the food, the music, the art, the literature, the people, and the ideas. It espouses a strong conservation ethic that grows out of its connection to the land, and it reveals the beauty of the South as no magazine ever has.

I love this magazine! Subscribe or read articles online. http://www.gardenandgun.com/

After I added this "favorite" Misty Holcomb sent me this article, apparently the AJC likes Garden and Gun too! /www.ajc.com/news/content/living/stories//2008/08/26/gun_garden_magazine.html

Jewelry-Glass

Betsy Howerton introduced me to this jewelry. We found it at the Inman Park Festival a few years back and I have seen it in shops in Savannah. She does not have a store, but is very approachable. I wanted to return an item and she was very accommodating. SMART GLASS JEWELRY is handmade in Atlanta, Georgia from glass, sterling silver, and silver solder using traditional stained glass methods. Each piece is individually selected, with variations in shape and texture in the glass ensuring that every piece in the SMART GLASS line is a truly unique and one-of-a-kind original. It is fun, pretty and LOCAL! http://www.smartglassjewelry.com/

Jewelry-Gold & Silver

This jewelry is some of my all time favorite. Every Georgia woman should own at least one piece. Gogo uses bones and shells from Cumberland Island as inspiration to create her gold and silver jewelry. You can visit her store in the Sea Island shopping center on Saint Simons- near the Harris Teeter, which has a great wine selection by the way, one of her stores on Martha's Vineyard or shop online.

Transforming the intricacies of nature into jewelry has been done throughout history. "For the most part you cannot improve on nature's designs," and that appreciation for her natural surroundings is how Gogo Ferguson creates her spectacular line of jewelry.

Growing up on the unspoiled island called Cumberland off the coast of Georgia, her love and respect for the land is as strong as the Timucuan Indians who inhabited the island thousands of years prior to her. Gogo's family have been active stewards for six generations on Cumberland, which now exists as a National Park due to their love and desire to protect forever this very special place.
"The natural patterns I use from bones or shells that I find and cast in 14K gold and silver, I see repeated as well in Indian pottery chards; evidence of their same appreciation for nature's designs thousands of years ago." "It is this recycling of nature whether it be in pottery, jewelry or fabric design that I find so exciting. What most would step over on the tide line, I see in a completely different light - it will ultimately become one of my designs."

It is GoGo's passion for Cumberland and her work that have caused her business to be such a success. Sold in galleries and boutiques nationally and internationally, GoGo has acquired an impressive list of collectors. She has two stores on Martha's Vineyard open June thru October.
In their travels around the world, GoGo and her husband David Sayre have fallen in love with Morocco and have consequently opened a Moroccan gallery as well. "Their culture, traditions and exquisite sense of color and design have captured our love and respect. It is a perfect compliment to my jewelry. Our designs are but small links in sustaining our traditions and lifestyles, a reflection of our appreciation for our surroundings and our land. It is a wonderful feeling to see others feel the same connection to nature and enjoy collecting my work." http://www.gogojewelry.com/

Shopping-Gift Ideas

This French company has the most adorable line of products that range from hammers to tweezers (below) to wallets to toasters (right)...It appears that the only stores in the US are in New York and there are currently only a few items posted on ebay. But if you are in need of a unique gift item, search ebay for anything Pylones and you can guarantee they will love it! Some individual stores may carry a line of their products, so look for it. How cute is this? http://www.pylones.com

Food-Chocolate

Galaxy chocolate is manufactured by Mars, but hard to find. Especially these Minstrels which may be only in the UK and Ireland. Minstrels orginally had the slogan "melt in your mouth, not in your hand", but it was used to market M&M's in the 80's and 90's. Just last month they started a new ad campaign marketed as "sophisticated silliness", I could not have put it better myself. Afterall, Gracie quotes me as referring to Webkins as "online silliness". But this is a silliness that everyone should try. And these are sophisticated and yummy. If you find it, let me know and certainly buy a bar or two.

Food-Wine

Rebecca Grizzle introduced me to this surprisingly really good not just under $10, but under $7 (I think ) wine. The Bohemian Highway is unique stretch of Northern California road that winds through vineyards and redwood forests as it makes its way toward the Pacific Ocean. The Cabernet has flavors of sweet plum and black cherry. They also have a Chardonnay, Merlot, Savignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. You can get it at Publix, Tower, Cost Plus World Market and even that Chevron on North Highland Avenue.

Shopping-Luggage

I am giving away all my secrets with this one. The Tumi Outlet in Vidalia, Georgia. Located at 2611 East 1st Street 30474, you must find this on the map and must make it a detour on your next trip down to Savannah or the Coast. Call before you go to make sure they are open and you might need to get specific directions. They have a tendency to move locations as well- 912.537.6015. Tumi is the leading international brand of luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories- or so they say. If you travel often and are in need of luggage that you want to last a very long time, this is the place to go. They also sell Kipling, Bric's and other brands as well. I got this outrageous Crocodile-Embossed Luggage by Bric's. This eye catching luggage is fashioned in red crocodile-embossed, cotton-flocked and coated PVC with tan leather trim. According to the Nordstroms ad, "You can pick your piece, and rest assure that this luggage won't get lost in the crowd. You can pick up this gorgeous luggage at Neiman Marcus with prices ranging from $170 to $795". Not a typo, $795.00. My bag retails for $595 and I am pretty sure I paid less than $100.00. They have a huge sell just before Christmas. I plan on calling December 1st to find out when and plan a weekend trip to Savannah, stopping in Vidalia on my way. I went a few years back and it was incredible. They had large wooden tables set up in the back warehouse with paper signs starting as low as $5.00 for purple, blue or aqua soft leather passport holders and wallets, and $20.00 handbags. They have traditional black luggage that you can purchase by the piece, probably for around $100. I have yet to find a great lunch spot in or around Vidalia, but I am sure it's out there. Let me know if you find it.

Shopping-Women and Children

The Atlanta Junior League's Nearly New Store is located just off I-75 at Howell Mill. It is near the Wal-Mart in the Kroger Shopping Center. I recommend stopping by here if you are in the area. They often have a great choice of infant clothing, sometimes with tags. They have that hard-to-find pastel colored, smocked, linen and cotton baby clothing that is usually in excellent condition. You can expect to pay about $5.00 per item or less. The clothing is great for sizes up to 12 months, but after that it really starts to get worn and is not as good a buy. I found this amazing keri golf stand bag that retails for $295.00 and looks as if it was played with once for $15.00. Women's clothing items are totally hit or miss. I found a pair of Ralph Lauren Black Label linen pants for $10.00. I also found a La Perla bra with tags. But you have to dig or have an idea of what you are searching for. I recommend looking for designer dressier coats or jackets, which tend to be more gently worn. Last seasons Patagonia polar fleeces should be abundant when the weather gets cooler. You can also find lots of Georgia and Georgia Tech attire for men, women and children. Twice a year (around Thanksgiving and maybe again in April) everything is half off, but I hope you aren't THAT poor that you have to shop the sale and the second hand store. If so, let me know, and I will share any proceeds off my golf bag. Also, if you're hungry...the Kroger next door, although a little sketchy, has a great organic selection. It is on the first or second aisle and they have a wide variety of healthy snacks; muslix, granola, Ezekiel breads and cereals and more. Also of note, the Nearly New Store does not have a bathroom. Just so you know. :)

Clothing-Lingerie

I think this is one of Oprah's favorite things too, however, I heard about it from Betty Conner so I have to give her the credit.

We are really lucky to have one of these stores in Atlanta. Located in Phipps Plaza, Intimacy of Atlanta, really is a must experience for all women. The store was founded by a woman who has now been dubbed, "The Bra Whisperer" by Carson Kressley on Lifetime's show "How to Look Good Naked". The store was also featured on the very popular "What Not to Wear". For those who have not seen "How to Look Good Naked", I highly recommend watching at least one episode. Yes, Carson is a bit out there, however he is extremely clever and really has a way of showing these women how to love themselves. It is sad to see all these women in America with such terribly low self-esteem and how society has told us that unless we are a size 2 we are not beautiful. Carson, in a very comedic manner, takes women on a four day journey of self discovery, showing them just how beautiful they are. And we are all beautiful, aren't we? I just wish women had the revelation of how loved they truly are and how they are "fearfully and wonderfully made" as the Bible tells us, made in His image. So anyway, go to this store. If you are in a hurry, call and make an appointment- 404.261.9333. I went during the week around mid morning and only had about a 10 minute wait. There is a lady in front taking names for reservations. You will be taken back into a fitting room and you do kinda get naked, so don't wear your bra with the underwire sticking out or the one that is white-ish. At first, the girl will show you problem areas with your existing bra, straps that dig into your shoulders, or how it may tend to ride up in the back. She will then bring you about 15-20 different bras to try on. They really are amazing and really do make you look and feel better. Here comes the tricky part. Most of the bras start at around $69.00 and can go up to $200. If you have the budget for that, great! If not, I recommend simply jotting down the name of the bra, with the item number, size and all the details - when the girl leaves to go get more bras!-and later search for them on www.ebay.com . The store sells bras by Chantelle and Simone Perele, among others. Another thing is, they fit you differently. Because only 20% of your support should come from the straps, they will often fit you in a smaller circumference than you are most likely used to, but it works. I found both of my bras with exact item numbers on ebay for around $30.00 each, that retail for $89.00 or so. The girls in the shop still get paid, "The Bra Whisperer" is still richer than me, and perhaps you too, so I don't feel too bad about using their services. So, until Oprah invites me to come and sit on the couch, I'm gonna get mine on ebay.

Travel-My Favorite Fulton County Getaway

Located just 20 minutes or so from the Atlanta Airport, the Serenbe Community has so much to offer. They have a weekend farmers market, gift shops, and a bakery. I recommend packing a light picnic lunch to have while on a hike. Go mid morning for a cup of coffee at the bakery. Sit outside and read the AJC (provided) and then head out for a long hike along the miles and miles of trails. There are two "waterfalls" and a great little treehouse to discover. If you are up for it, stay all day, get a cookie and freshen up at the bakery (great bathrooms) and make reservations for dinner at The Hil restaurant. Or if you want, stay overnight at the Inn at Serenbe. They often have specials for dinner and room rates, so get on their email list. At one point they would allow guest to stay at the Inn on Sunday for $129 and would give you a $60.00 voucher for dinner at The Hil. Chef Hilary is a renowned Atlanta chef and prepares wonderful fresh vegetables, fish, lamb and more. They grow or raise most all their food items, including cheeses! They have a decent wine list, but I am sure you could bring your own. Despite the prices and the linen table cloths, the place is quite laid back and come as you are. The waitstaff is not the best in the world, but just be patient. The whole experience of Serenbe is worth it. There is also a restaurant at The Inn, The Farmhouse. They often serve Sunday specials of fried chicken with mashed potatoes, a vegetable of the day, bread and tea for a fixed price. I recommend going when you can stay the day. If you go on a Sunday for lunch, go when you can take your time and play croquet on the lawn. For sure take the kids, they have a trampoline built over a pit in the ground and a tiny basketball court for fun while you wait. They also have farm animals, sheep, goats, llama, and more. There is a ton to see and do. I am sure they will be having a lot of fall festivities, so keep watch and call me if you want someone to come along for the ride! http://www.serenbe.com/ Oh! I almost forgot. They have their own honey bees! You can buy it there at the Harris & Clark food store. They also carry Sweet Grass Dairy cheeses.

Food-Goat Cheese

Since it is in the title, I have to share my favorite goat cheese! And of course, it's local! Sweet Grass Dairy is located in Thomasville, Georgia, home to the Fallin's, Senator Bulloch and where Meredith goes fox hunting. I am not sure exactly where to tell you to get it, but it is becoming more and more popular, so look for it or better yet, ask for it! You can shop online at www.sweetgrassdairy.com

Here is a description from their website...

EATING WELL IS ONE OF OUR PASSIONS! We've been dairy farmers for many years, and for much of the time we produced a high volume of milk that supposedly allowed us to be economically viable. However, in recent years we discovered that the way we had produced milk in the past definitely did not provide the life we wanted or even the best tasting or highest quality milk. So, as people sometimes do in the middle of their careers, we bailed out of conventional dairying to pursue a better way to farm.Our cows no longer live in barns on concrete. They live outdoors, get exercise, and enjoy grazing lush pastures just as cows on farms are supposed to. We maintain sustainable, biological farming practices that always nourish the soil life first---the cornerstone for producing the highest quality foodstuffs. We never use growth hormones or stimulants, and we are highly conscious of providing our cows with what gives them the best life possible.We now have added a new facet to our careers as dairy farmers---We started a goat dairy and a farmstead cheesemaking business!! Our philosophy is carried over to our goat herd as well. They happily browse woods, fields and pasture. Our aim is to handcraft fresh, semi-ripened, and naturally aged goat and cow cheeses that you will find unique and delicious. Remember us as the folks who make great cheese and let their cows be cows and their goats be goats!

Clothing-Reefs

These really are the best. I've worn them all over the world- as seen here at Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland and Mozambique, Africa. They hold up well, wash well and feel great. I wore my pink ones to Sea Island one weekend and made the mistake of putting them in a ziplock bag with a wet bathing suit. They soured and smelled terrible and I thought it was the end. I put them in the washing machine with a little Bleach and they came out as good as new. They are lightweight and really cushiony-if that's a word- and offer surprisingly good support. They come in a variety of styles and colors, but I really recommend this type, with the black or brown soles.

Travel-Little Saint Simons Island

This is one of coastal Georgia's best kept secrets. This unspoilt island is just amazing. It is full of history and has been mostly untouched. If you are on or near Saint Simons I highly recommend you do a day trip there. The boat leaves Hampton River Club Marina at 10:30 and returns at 4:30. Upon arrival, you are met by a naturalist who will take you on a guided tour of the island. A really yummy meal is included and you have the remainder of the afternoon to spend on seven miles of private beach. You can even stay over night, but it is a little pricey, but also recommended if your budget allows. The day trip is worth the cost, as the meal is great and the island is a must see. Dress comfortably, take your camera, and wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes. Take your iPod or journal for sitting out on the beach. You might also want to take a small thermos of ice water. They will provide insect repellent and sunscreen and can refill your thermos if necessary. The staff is friendly and accommodating. Call 912.638.7472 for Reservations or visit http://www.littlestsimonsisland.com/ for more information.