A long lunch with a lifelong Friend–friends since forever, Nebraska


One doesn’t have an opportunity to make “new” old friends very often in their life. I am one of those blessed people. Stacy, my sweet, sweet dear friend, has stuck by my side as a dear, best friend for nearly 4 decades. That’s right, nearly 40 years we have been the dearest of friends.

We met in kindergarten all those years ago and we have literally grown up together and more.

On the road trip, we met up and had a wonderful lunch together in Nebraska. It was not far from where she lives at a nice place called “The Lodge.” I asked her to choose the place as she was and is very familiar with the region. Both of us have lived in a variety of places, towns, cities, and states over the years. However, we never lost connection.

Stacy gave me a tour of her town. She was trying strongly to persuade me to move to that area. She highlighted all the wonderful features, areas of great employment, and so much more. She was giving it her best shot to get me to settle there and be nearby! I am so very blessed. We all need amazing friends and friendships in our lives. I am so fortunate that Stacy is mine!

Stacy treated me to a lovely shopping experience at Buff City Soap. She has a member card there, emphasizing how awesome the shop and products are. Yes, I went home with quite a few goodies.

While we dined out, we talked extensively. Her children gladly babysat Pixie at their place. I don’t know who had more fun, the kids or the dog. Calvin, her husband, gave a hilarious status report when we returned and then promptly took a selfie with my phone.

Enjoying the delights at Mocha Mountain, Walhalla, South Carolina


My lovely cousin, Amy, drove down from North Carolina to spend the weekend with me in Upstate, South Carolina. We kicked things off with a wonderful and spectacular lunch at Mocha Mountain in downtown Walhalla, South Carolina. It is just a few blocks up the street from the historical St. Johns Lutheran Church (worth checking out!)

While we waited for our lunch to be served, Amy shopped the boutique within. It hosted a lovely assortment of handmade goods. These ranged from goat milk soaps to yeti items and more. Amy purchased a little souvenir treat for herself while there and I snapped some photos. I found Yeti–a mural of him anyway! Why is that we assume Yeti is a dude and the Loch Ness Monster a cool chick? Wonders never cease but I digress!

I ordered the Mountain Club. I had avocado added. I chose rye bread with homemade potato salad on the side. It was absolutely delicious. If my stomach would have allowed, I would have eaten two of them, it was that good! Amy also chose the club. She enjoyed it on white bread with mayo added. She scarfed it down with a side of chips. She ordered a caramel latte and I had the London Fog, both amazing beverages. You can choose a real, ceramic mug or a to-go mug. This is a great feature because I prefer a real mug. Mocha Mountain is the only place in this region that serves a London Fog. It is one of my absolute most favorite hot beverages. It really added the dazzle in our dining adventures!

After lunch, we felt full. We headed to Station Cove Waterfalls, which is about a 10-minute drive up Highway 11. The adventures continue!