Memorial Day Weekend is upon us and many are taking to the highways to celebrate the holiday. We were traveling back home from Atlanta on Thursday, and if the traffic on I-65 was any indicator, the coastal beaches will be packed. There are plenty of events planned to memorialize our veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Please take a few moments to honor those men and women this weekend.
Speaking of travel, we dusted off our suitcases and spent the better part of the week in Atlanta. One of the advantages of living on the Gulf Coast is the proximity to major cities. The "Big Peach" is the state capital of Georgia and offers infinite options for folks visiting. Driving from the coast takes around 5 hours, depending on where you are staying.
I'd like to share some of the highlights of our latest adventure. Hopefully you will visit this vibrant city soon and enjoy some of the places we love. I definitely go to Atlanta to shop, dine, gawk at architecture and explore.
Let's begin with dining...Anis Cafe & Bistro is a little French inspired restaurant nestled in Buckhead. I opted for the Anis Plateau featuring roasted salmon with a memorable sauce. There was an extensive wine list and delicious desserts. I chose the bread pudding and it did not disappoint! This quaint restaurant offers dining indoors and out with a relaxed dress code. Fabulous dining experience!
The other restaurant that never disappoints is Louisiana Bistro. We dined at the Buckhead location and enjoyed live jazz, BBQ Shrimp and a wonderful atmosphere. This was our fourth time to eat here and it will remain on our list when we visit A-Town.
A fun option is the Ponce City Market located on Ponce de Leon Avenue. This eclectic collection of shops and restaurants is a fun way to spend part of your day while in town. I had a great meal at Botiwalla Indian Street Food and tried a Pineapple Tumeric Soda! This place connects to the famous Belt Line so if you need a stroll after dining, you'll have the opportunity to explore.
Shopping is WONDERFUL in Atlanta! I carve out time to go to places that are not available here including Trader Joes' (my dogs love their treats), IKEA, Kendra Scott, West Elm and of course, Lennox Square. Imagine having nearly 200 high-end shops to explore! This is a great place to see the latest in fashion, celebrity watch and shop!
I was amazed at the amount of construction happening all over Atlanta. There are businesses and residential properties being developed everywhere. In fact, there was a huge development happening across from Louisiana Bistro. I remember when this space was an empty parking lot. There was no sign of any sort of recession in this energetic city.
Another observation is how DOG FRIENDLY the city is. Dogs were being walked everywhere! Frenchies, Poodles, Schnauzers, and more frequented the green spaces in the city.
I'd love to know where you go when you visit Atlanta! Post below!
Insider tip: Be prepared to pay to park. Most shopping centers and restaurants provide two-hour free parking however anything beyond that is charged.
New on YouTube!
I was in the kitchen recently and made one of my favorite handhelds...the classic hamburger. This recipe is just in time for the holiday weekend. Check out how I added Vidalia Onions to this family favorite! Click here to watch!
Bonus: You'll learn how to make a malt!
Don't forget to check out Boss Partner, Houston Horne and his new channel @handyguysmoving!
Walking Continues...
Whilst traveling, I had to find ways to get my steps in. Here are some great tips from Pinterest for you to adopt in your daily routine. The best advice I can give you is to find a friend to walk and chat with! It makes all the difference in the world!
This Weekend...
How about grilling outdoors this weekend or heading to the beach? There is so much to do on the coast with our beautiful weather, so get out and enjoy time with family & friends. If you plan to visit any of our local attractions, be sure to call and make sure they are open for Memorial Day.
I wanted to take a moment and wish my one and only a very Happy Anniversary. We've enjoyed a dozen years together and it feels like we are just getting started. Thank you for all of the fun adventures and for being my soul mate.
Everyone, please have a great week and make the most of time with family and friends.
~ Charlsie
Love this blog! Atlanta sounds exciting and vibrant! Been through a couple of times but never stopped to shop!! Looks like a future trip!! That pie looks delicious! Happy Anniversary!!!