Travel – Vacation Like a Local

Uniquely Romantic Lofts for Two that are Perfect for Valentine’s Day

January 19, 2021January 16, 2021 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Local Businesses, Travel, Where to Stay

Everyone’s favorite romantic holiday is less than a month away! Have you and your significant other started making plans for your next romantic getaway? Thankfully, this year, Valentine’s Day falls on one of the most perfect days of the week. Sunday. For those of you with children, this allows you the perfect time to let the kids spend the weekend with their grandparents and have a romantic weekend getaway with just you and your spouse/partner. Matt and I have done some digging on Airbnb and found some unique lofts that are within a 4 hour drive of Frisco.

Rose Capital Studio

Photo Courtesy of Airbnb
Photo Courtesy of Airbnb

This uniquely decorated studio gives you the urban conveniences of home, yet with a rustic flare that makes you feel like your are in Marfa (without the 8 hour drive)! This cozy loft includes some fun features such as projector and screen for watching some of your favorite romantic comedies, an open reading nook, a standing desk, and even some smart lights. If you and your significant other like to go out, there are plenty of things to do while in Downtown Tyler. For the foodie couples some great places to visit include: True Vine Brewing, Culture ETX, Rick’s on the Square, or the Janie’s Cakes. For shopping, there are a few boutiques and salons in town including a couple antique shops and a flower shop 😉 .

Downtown Tyler | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours

Loft ZaZa

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Now, this is a rather large loft with 3 beds, 1.5 baths and it can fit up to 10 guests. However, this loft should not be written off solely based on the number of guests it can accommodate. The fantastic Loft Zaza is located just above the Boutique One Eleven in Downtown Gainesville. For those who like to shop there are a couple of unique boutiques in town, including: Boutique One Eleven, Cahoots Handbags, Amelia’s Attic Antiques, Kinne’s Jewlers, and Bungalow 123. There are also a few unique eateries in the area like: Fried Pie Co. & Restaurant, Sarah’s on the Square, and the Red Fox Lounge.

Downtown Gainesville | Directions

Travel Time: 1 hour

Nid d’Amour

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

If you do not want to take a road trip, then definitely consider having a staycation in the beautiful Wilson Building in Downtown Dallas. As always, there are plenty of things to do for couples in Downtown Dallas. For example: there are plenty of great events going on in the Arts District! On Friday, February 12th, Titas/Dance Unbound Doug Varone and Dancers will be performing live at the Winspear Opera House. Also, within a few blocks of the Wilson Building Apartments, there are several restaurants including: The Woolworth, Chop House Burger, and Porta Di Roma. For some other romantic ideas include a couples massage at the Spa at the Joule Dallas or shopping at Neiman Marcus.

Downtown Dallas | Directions

Travel Time: 30 minutes

Recess on Cypress Creek and Wimberley Square

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Just a few minutes Southwest of Austin, in the town of Wimberley, there is an adorable bohemian styled loft that is perfect for a romantic weekend! This loft is in an old home, but fully up to date with a kitchen, private bath, and living area. Of course this loft was furnished with the environment in the forefront owner’s thoughts, the accents in this loft include live indoor plants, 100% cotton towels, bamboo blankets, and hand made wooden accents. There are a few great little places to see while you are there, including: Ino’s Brew & Chew, Community Pizza & Beer Garden, and Wimberley Cafe.

Wimberley | Directions

Travel Time: 4 hours

Artists Loft in San Antonio

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Granted San Antonio is a little over a four hour drive. However, the city of San Antonio is every bit worth the extra 30 minutes. After all, between the unique sites along the Riverwalk, Rich Texan History, and amazing Latino culture; what is there not to like about San Antonio. This Artist Studio is every bit as unique as the city itself. It is decorated with stunning area rugs, beautiful antique furniture, live plants, and one of a kind art work. For those who are unfamiliar with the Southtown Neighborhood of San Antonio, there are some great small businesses in the area. While you are there, be sure to visit: The Friendly Spot Ice House, La Frite Belgian Bistro, and Maverick Texas Brasserie.

Southtown Neighborhood of San Antonio | Directions

Travel Time: 4 hour 30 minutes

Loft on 6th Street in Austin

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

This loft is absolutely perfect for anyone who loves the nightlife! If you choose to spend your romantic holiday here, you will find that you are within walking to distance of some of the greatest venues that the Live Music Capitol of the World has to offer. The best part of this loft is the floor to ceiling windows on every external wall (except in the Bedroom) which allows the loft to be filled with natural light during daylight hours.

Downtown Austin | Directions

Travel Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Windmill Loft

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

It does not sound like there is much in the city of McGregor, TX. However, it is a very small town about 20 minutes Southwest of Waco. Therefore, you have access to all of your favorite locations in Waco, including: The Silos and Baylor University. But if you and your significant other are just looking for some quiet, private time; the Windmill Loft is the perfect place your the two of you to spend your Valentine’s Day. This lovely loft is inside the newly renovated Historic Masonic Building in Downtown McGregor. All of the hardwood in the loft (including the cabinets, floors, and wainscoting) are all original to the building and has a large TV, comfortable beds, couches, and 14 foot ceilings.

McGregor | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

The Urban Cowboy Loft

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

The Green Door Lofts is a really cool renovated building in the heart of the Historic District of Waco. This spacious and airy loft allows you and your life partner to relax and spend a great night in watching Netflix or Direct TV. It is also worth noting that there is a heated pool on the grounds of the the apartment complex, in case the two of you would like to go for a late night swim. However, if you would like to go out and see the sights; the Hippodrome Diner Theatre is right next door. Other options in the area for food and entertainment is the Dr. Pepper Museum, the Waco Farmer’s Market (only open Saturdays 9am to 1pm), and Union Hall.

Downtown Waco | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Behrens Lofts Downtown Waco

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

This is another beautiful loft right in the heart of historic Downtown Waco and within walking distance to the Silos District. The Behrens Lofts are located in the recently renovated Behrens Warehouse. The owners of this loft have kept the brick exposed brick walls and industrial air vents that have added a wonderful antique, urban flair to the property. If you are looking for a quiet night in, this is the perfect place to eat some of your favorite comfort food, lounge on the couch and watch your favorite movies on the 70-inch Smart TV. There are plenty of fun places to visit (all within walking distance) during your stay in Waco, including: Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits, Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant, and the Clay Pot Restaurant.

Downtown Waco | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

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Airbnb’s Perfect for your Thanksgiving Holiday

November 2, 2020November 2, 2020 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Travel, Where to Stay

Thanksgiving is only three weeks away. This Thanksgiving Holiday, after everyone has been confined to their homes for nearly seven months, we are all in desperate time away. With the Pandemic this year, it has become clear that we all need to spend more time with those we love this Holiday Season. One of the best ways to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Frisco Metroplex would be by renting a relaxing Airbnb home to retreat to this Thanksgiving holiday. We have specifically chosen great rentals with great views and are perfect for you and your family (or group of friends) to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.

Arrowhead Lodge (Montana)

What better way to escape the insanity of Dallas life than by heading West out to Yellowstone Country, Montana. The Arrowhead Lodge is a perfect location for anyone who wants to escape to the Rocky Mountains for Thanksgiving. This rental property is a great option for any family get together because it has spacious rooms each with landscape windows and amazing views. The kitchen could comfortable fit five adults working to create an amazing Thanksgiving meal. For day trips, Yellowstone National Park is only 1.5 hour drive South. There are also some fun little shops in Downtown Livingston, including: The Obsidian Collection, The Gourmet Cellar, and Neptune’s Taphouse and Eatery.

Number of Guests: 16

Cost (for 16 guests): $57.75/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to BZN) + 45 minute drive from airport

Eagle Lake Estate (Idaho)

Who would have thought to vacation to Idaho would be a good idea? But really, Idaho does have one of the prettiest landscapes in the Continental United States. In fact, Idaho was listed among the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA by Thrillist. This stunning Airbnb property in Idaho is definitely no exception! The Eagle Lake Estate is on a beautiful, yet secluded property in the small town of Hailey. Along with five large, wonderfully decorated bedrooms, the property also has a naturally lit living/dining room with floor to ceiling windows and high vaulted ceilings, a very comfortable media room. The kitchen is large enough to allow a few people to work on the Thanksgiving feast. If you would prefer to do other things on Thanksgiving day, a Chef (or two) can be provided to you for an extra cost. For day trips, lodge is only five minutes away from Sawtooth National Forest.

Number of Guests: 12

Cost (for 12 guests): $166.67/night/person

Travel Time: 5 hour flight (DFW to IDA) + 2.5 hour drive from airport

Heartwood Lodge (Wyoming)

The Heartwood Lodge is great for any family who is looking to spend some time in Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park. Both of these parks are just a short drive due North. Not only is this six bedroom lodge just outside of the second oldest National Parks in the world; it is also perfect for anyone who is an avid skier, as it is within walking distance to Après Vous. Other fun accommodations include: an outdoor hot tub and fireplace (for the adventurous few in the group), a large media room (perfect for football fans) and a pool table. Other features available for an extra cost include various members of household staff (chef, butler, driver, restaurant concierge, or childcare), Villa pre-stocking, activities and excursions.

Number of Guests: 18

Cost (for 18 guests): $444.45/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to JAC) + 22 minute drive

Movie Star Mansion (Utah)

This is another great option for any group that loves to ski or snowboard, as this rental has a ski-in/ski-out feature. For those who would do not like to ski as much, Historic Park City is just a short drive away and has many fun shops like Atticus Coffee Books & Teahouse, No Name Saloon & Grill, and La Niche. Or if you are looking more for a night in, there are some wonderful activities available at the house to engage in. These activities includes: a pool table, a poker table, fully equipped exercise room, media room, jacuzzi, a sauna, a wet bar, and seven very spacious bedrooms. If you and your group are planning on making your own Thanksgiving dinner; do not fear, as the kitchen in this lodge is large enough to accommodate at least six people. However, if you find that you are in need of some extra hands on Thanksgiving day, some additional services are provided to the group for an extra fee, including: food pre-stocking, household staff (chef, driver, food and beverage services, housekeeping, childcare and a butler), car rental, and restaurant concierge.

Number of Guests: 18

Cost (for 18 guests): $225.95/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to SLC) + 1 hour drive

“Our Place” (Idaho)

This is a great option for a very large family or a family would like to have lots of space during this Thanksgiving season. You are guaranteed extra privacy and quiet as the property has no neighbors. Never fear though, there are plenty of activities while at the lodge including ping pong, pool, a jacuzzi, an outdoor firepit which is perfect for making s’mores. If you are looking to get off the property for the day, both and Idaho Falls and Jackson, Wyoming are only an hour away. For those looking for a quiet night in, the lodge has three fire places, a jetted tub in the master bathroom, and a TV. On Thanksgiving day, do not worry about the size of the kitchen as it can comfortably fit six to seven people.

Number of Guests: 22

Cost (for 22 guests): $54.55/night/person

Travel Time: 5 hour flight (DFW to IDA) + 1.5 hour drive from airport

****All photos (including Cover photo) courtesy of Airbnb.

The Most Instagramable Hotel in Austin, TX – The Driskill

September 23, 2019September 17, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Travel, Where to Stay

Happy First Day of Autumn! It is now officially my favorite season of the year! Autumn is my favorite season for many reasons! I love the fall colors, the weather (Texas weather during Fall is glorious), Texas Tech Football, and of course the holidays.

Thanksgiving is easily one of my favorite holidays during the Autumn Season! With fall finally upon us, it is officially time to start solidifying our travel plans for the Thanksgiving Holiday. This Thanksgiving, my boyfriend and I will be traveling to the lovely and bohemian Texas Capital (Austin, TX). We are primarily visiting so that we can attend the Texas v. Texas Tech Football Game on November 29th. But I digress, I am super thrilled to visit the city of Austin! During our trip, he and I will be staying at the amazing Driskill Hotel.

Perfect Location for Instagram

Photo Courtesy of The Driskill Hotel

Originally opened in 1886 by Cattle Barron, Jesse Driskill; the hotel has seen some amazing events and A-class guests (including President Lyndon B. Johnson) over the last 130(+) years. Currently, the hotel part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. The Hyatt has made the conscious decision to stay true to the hotel’s original Romanesque Revival Architecture. The Interior Decor (expertly designed by Volz & Associates, Inc.) is an absolutely stunning and ornate Art Deco Design that includes many period-motifs. This makes the Driskill the perfect location for any Instagramable moment, especially: marriage proposals, wedding pictures, family photos, and more!

Rooms & Amenities

My boyfriend and I will be staying in a Balcony room, which is one of the premium guest rooms available (aside from the Suites). Along with traditional room amenities (i.e. flat screen TV, Wifi, In-room Safe, and several more); this room also includes fantastic view of historic 6th Street in the Heart of Downtown Austin. Other amenities include, museum-quality art work, live music every night, upscale dining, and traditions such as afternoon tea. Nightly turn-down services are also available for anyone wanting to add a little more romance to their stay.

1886 Cafe & Bakery

Photo Courtesy of The Driskill Hotel

The 1886 Cafe & Bakery is open daily from 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM and serves breakfast and lunch all morning and early afternoon. Executive Chef, Christian Aptez, delights his patrons with fantastic breakfast options, including: Austin Hot Fried Chicken, Smoked Salmon & Bagel, Hangover Omlet, and the vegan Texas-Shaped Waffle. Some lunch options include Poblano Corn Soup (which is gluten-free), Arugula & Melon Salad, Turkey B.L.T Croissant, and the Hangover Burger. To drink, be sure to try their The Breezy One Cocktail.

Every Second Monday at 6:00 PM, the 1886 Cafe & Bakery hosts the Craft Series at 1886. This series offers guests four craft beers accompanied by a four course dinner all for the great price of $45.

The Driskill Bar

Photo Courtesy of The Driskill Hotel

Named one of the Top 10 Bars in America by USA Today and Best Bar in Texas by Southern Living, The Driskill Bar is a wonderful gathering spot for travelers over the age of 21. Happy Hour is from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM Daily. If you are looking for a few bites to eat: try their Margarita Flatbread or Smoked French Dip. Or after a long day, guests can relax in a large lounge chair, listen to some live music (which is offered nightly), socialize with some new friends, all while sipping on the The Batini (the Official Drink of Austin).

This post was originally written by Kelsey Andriot and posted on The Chronicles of Kelsey Blog.

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Living Intentionally – How Writing a Daily Letter to a Deployed Friend has Helped Strengthen our Friendship

April 10, 2019August 29, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Everything Else

Before I started dating, I was about 25 years old and had my mind set on other things. Over the last four years I have gone out on many dates, met even more men, and even made a few friends along the way. Like many people, I definitely have a “type.” This type tends to be Veterans (many of which are Combat Vets).

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

While getting to know these men, they would always tell me how they enjoyed receiving and writing letter to and from their loved ones while on deployment. They would tell me how they really enjoyed the small details in the letters. For example: one person told me that he enjoyed reading about how his sister went to Starbucks with one of her best friends then later she went to the grocery store. It has always been a mystery to me; why do you want to know every detail about what is happening here? In my mind, I find these small details to be rather boring. Wouldn’t someone who is deployed feel the same way about the small details of life at home?

Fast forward a few years to present day. I now have a friend who works part time for the National Guard (Former Air Force Officer) and was recently deployed. During his deployment, I made the decision to intentionally write him a long deployment letter every day at noon. I didn’t know his physical address, so all of our communication was via Facebook Messenger.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

At first, I had no idea what to tell him about. So naturally, I started telling him all about the weather. Then eventually, with the more letters I sent him, the more comfortable I became with telling him about other things. I would tell him about my minor victories and losses, frustrations, sicknesses, plans, work, friendships, and so on. Often times he would respond in ways that I was not expecting.

Unexpectedly, my deployment letters turned into actual conversations. They became conversations of substance. We become more comfortable with each other during his deployment because of my letters.. Despite being thousands of miles apart, we became closer and our friendship became much deeper.

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This Post was originally posted on The Chronicles of Kelsey. If you like what you see please leave a comment below and follow this blog. Also, be sure to follow Kelsey on Instagram and Facebook.

Increased Productivity by Pacing Yourself

March 20, 2019August 29, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Everything Else

Throughout my life, I have been consistently told “just take 15 minutes out of your day to work on (insert task here).” However, it was not until I was 25 years old and working towards my second Bachelors degree when I realized the importance of timing yourself.

As stated in my About page, I am currently working full-time and going to school part-time. My first bachelors degree is in Exercise and Sport Science. Now, I am working towards a bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering. Eventually, I would like to earn a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. With all the course work and the stress load that I have to handle outside of school, using a timer to pace myself throughout the day has proved to be very, very, very helpful.

shallow focus of clear hourglass — Photo by Jordan Benton on Pexels.com

The nice thing about timing yourself is that it can be applied to just about any and every aspect of life. For example, it can be applied to your professional life. If you are working on multiple projects time, use a timer to time yourself as you work on each project. If you are a housewife and mother, you can time yourself for cleaning the kitchen, cleaning your bedroom, or taking a nap.

In a way, timers have taken over my life (especially on the weekends)! Right now, I am taking only two classes (University Physics I and Calculus III). Usually when I study, I spend 30 minutes studying Physics, 30 minutes studying Calculus, and 15(+) minutes during a break. It is during these 15(+) minute breaks, I spend time cleaning/organizing my room, working on my blog, working on other social media, eating, and so on.

young woman thinking with pen while working studying at her desk — Photo by Kaboompics .com on Pexels.com

Since I am constantly on my computer (perhaps a little too much), most of my timers are on my computer. There is an app on most windows computers labelled “Alarms & Clock.” Using this app, I have created several generic timers that are my go-to when it comes to intense studying and working. Below is a graphic listing the names of my timers and how long they are set for.

design desk display eyewear — Photo by energepic.com on Pexels.com

Fair Warning:

When you first start trying to get into the habit of setting timers, you are going to feel very unproductive. It will feel like nothing was accomplished in the last 30 minutes. When I first started doing this, that is exactly how I felt. Originally, I started out by setting 30 minute timers. At the time, I only completed about two problems. But this is perfectly fine! Usually, I finish the problem then move on to the next subject. Bottom line, when you start doing timing yourself you will start to feel a little down because you will not accomplish everything on your list within that 30 minutes! It is completely and totally normal. I am here to tell you, hang in there! It will get much easier

business newspaper page near black click pen and coffee — Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com

Fortunately, There Is Good News!

If (and only if) you keep timing yourself, you will be so much more productive. During each 15 to 30 minute timer, you will feel like nothing was accomplished. If you keep at it, eventually, you will finish whatever it was you set out to do. Not only will you finish, you will also find that you accomplished more than what you have originally intended. Timing yourself allows you to focus on what you are doing without distraction. Taking timed breaks, allows your brain to dwell on what you were just studying. Finally, timing yourself allows you to find ways to make your studying more efficient and effective.

This Post was originally posted on The Chronicles of Kelsey. If you like what you see please leave a comment below and follow this blog. Also, be sure to follow Kelsey on Instagram and Facebook.

Featured Image: Found on Pinterest.

Studying: Best Practices

March 6, 2019December 10, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Everything Else, Student Life

This post was originally posted to Preparing for a Career in Healthcare Blog. To see the full post click here

Hello everyone! It is the hard to believe that we have completed three and a half weeks for the year 2019! Where has the time gone?

Despite the year still being one quarter complete, many things have happened. I have set up a Facebook Page, reconfigured my Instagram Account, started the Spring Semester of school, passed two tests, and I have two more tests coming up that I need to study for. Thus, I have taken inspiration for today’s blog post from having to study for school.

Studying comes in many different forms. For my first degree, my time studying was almost entirely spent reading, writing and memorizing. However, I am in school trying to earn a second bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering. This major is an entirely different breed. Engineering is almost entirely math. Studying for math involves more practice and deduction than anything else. But I am getting off topic, so I digress.

Since returning to college there are many things that I have learned about regarding study habits and college success. Below, I have listed out a few major points about studying do’s and don’ts.

1) The Relationship Between Comfort Level and Studying

The more experience I have with successful study, the more evident it has become that there is a correlation between comfort level and studying. In other words, the more comfortable I am, the less productive I am during my studies. To combat this, here are a few things I have found that help tremendously with my productivity during study hours.

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Dress Nicely (Try to Avoid Wearing PJ’s and Athletic Wear)

No, you do not have to wear your fanciest clothing. But you will not be as productive dressed in your PJ’s or athletic gear as you would in regular clothes. Make it a point to wear jean pants or jean shorts and a nice blouse or graphic T-shirt. Another option, is a casual maxi skirt/dress, sun dress, or jean skirt. Since it is cold outside, I usually wear skinny jeans, boots, a fashion T-shirt, and a cardigan/jacket/vest. In the future, I might write a post that includes some of my favorite outfits to wear during my studies. But for now you might be able to find some inspiration on my Pinterest board I’m a Citizen of the World (pay particular attention to the Cozy Section, Casual Date Section, and the Weekend Section).

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Do not Study on your Bed

I know that I cannot be the only person who is like this, but my bed is my heaven. It is the most comfortable place for me to be. Because it is so comfortable, it is a terrible place for me to study. I am not nearly as productive if I study on my bed as I am when I study at the kitchen/dinning room table or my desk. When I am sitting on my bed, I often time get distracted doing other things. This is not ideal for an environment that needs to promote learning

Better yet, Get out of the House

Being at home makes us comfortable, since comfort level seems to be inversely correlated with productive study. Therefore, it is probably best that you get out of the house entirely. Where you go does not matter, just get out of the house. I find that cafes are my favorite places to study. But libraries, classrooms, the Math Lab, your Professor’s office are all excellent alternatives to sit and study your material. On Friday’s I go study in my Physic’s classroom and study. On Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, I sit in my Professor’s office and complete Calculus III homework.

brown book page — Photo by Wendy van Zyl on Pexels.com

2) Read your Textbook and Write Down Everything!

There is something about writing things down that make concepts much easier to memorize and understand. As you sit and read your textbook, be sure to jot down as many notes about what you are reading. Also, it is very important that you review and rewrite the notes that you have taken while in class. For example, one of the things I do (especially in Physics). I sit and read the book and write down any and every major point and revelation the book gives me. Then you sit and practice the sample problems. Generally, I will try to attempt the sample problem myself, then go back and see what I got wrong (you do not learn a thing by getting everything right). Finally, I will attempt to solve every odd numbered problem at the end of each chapter (these problems have the solutions in the back of the book).

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3) Setting Timers

This subject will most definitely require another post, because it applies to every situation (not just school). Plus, if you have never gotten into the habit of timing yourself, then there are a few things that you might want to know prior to picking this up as a habit. Therefore, I will follow up with a post in the next few weeks regarding this topic.

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4) Finally, Take Breaks and Do No have “Study Marathons.”

As humans, some of our biggest flaw is thinking that we learn more if we sit for several hours and study the same subject they whole time. This could not be further from the truth. Be sure to take breaks during your studies. During those breaks, be sure to actually get up and do something. There are many things you could do during your breaks, clean your room, clean the kitchen, go for a run/walk, lift weights, spend time working on a hobby, blog and so on. This is why timing yourself with timers are so important, so that you do not get so caught up in studies. Also timers help you time your breaks so that you do not loose yourself in these hobbies during these breaks.

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Fancy French Cuisine with My Two Favorite People

February 27, 2019August 29, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Gourmet Coffee & Tea, Local Businesses

DSC_0028-2 — My Personal Favorite Romper. Olive Green Kaileigh from Stitch Fix. Sorry, my hair is a mess from the wind blowing and this was a candid shot.

Yesterday, I had the wonderful pleasure of going to Toulouse Cafe & Bar with two of my favorite people, Jamie (my brother) and Bre (his girlfriend). I could not have asked to go to a better fine dining, luxury, 5 star restaurant with a better couple!

DSC_0025-3 — My Favorite Couple! Beautiful on the Inside and Out! I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for you guys!

Let’s start by saying that Toulouse Cafe & Bar is very quaint! The interior design is absolutely stunning! Despite the small size of the interior, the restaurant decor and abundant natural lighting gives the restaurant an airy and very open feel. Also, Bre wanted me to let you know that she found the bench seats to be very comfortable (hehe)! The three of us loved our seats and the friendly and accommodating service at Toulouse.

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We all had something to drink. I had the Hibiscus Margarita, it was excellent! Jamie had the Toulouse Old Fashioned; and Bre had a Mimosa. they were all really good! Unfortunately, I was able to get a good shot of my drink. But it was pink and fruity with a touch of salt!

Toulouse Old Fashioned

Mimosa

Despite having a 12 pm reservation, we all decided to have brunch. I had the Eggs Any Style. Again, unfortunately I was unable to get a picture of my meal. However I did get a picture of Jamie and Bre’s meal. Jamie had the Omlette Provençal and Bre had the Orange French Toast. My meal was very tasty. I also tried Bre’s breakfast, it was great.

Orange French Toast

Omlette Provencale

Jamie and Bre, thank you for joining me! I will love you guys and cannot wait to go on more adventures with you guys! XOXO

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This Post was originally posted on The Chronicles of Kelsey. If you like what you see please leave a comment below and follow this blog. Also, be sure to follow Kelsey on Instagram and Facebook.

The Amazing Power of Organization

February 13, 2019February 24, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Travel

Last Saturday, I made the decision to intentionally keep the TV in my bedroom off. It is absolutely amazing the amount of work I was able to accomplish during this time. Between studies, I decided to take on the project of cleaning and organizing my closet.

Roughly 20 years have passed since I have last cleaned and organized my closet. During this time, it has collected clothes that I have not worn nice high school. Until last Saturday, I was completely unable to walk into my walk-in closet. So taking inspiration from: “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix, I began the project of cleaning my closet.

Granted, it has been several weeks since I sat down and watched an episode of “Tidying up with Marie Kondo.” But nevertheless, the “Kondo Method” has helped motivate me to become more organized and tidy up my life. Generally, with projects like this, it is always difficult to know where to begin. Thankfully, Marie Kondo was there to help me (Please forgive the below photos as they are unedited and not staged).

Clothes, Hangers, and Misc. Items EVERYWHERE

The pile of clothes in the for ground came up to my hip.

There were items on my bed.

I began my new project by taking absolutely everything out of my closet. I put all my stuff in my bedroom. After this first step, I was absolutely shocked to see the amount of things my tiny walk-in closet could hold. All of this stuff, covered my entire bedroom floor. There was even a huge pile of clothes that came up to my hip. However, I continued with the “Kondo Method” and I was so surprised at how easy it was to finish this project. Despite the overwhelming amount of items, I finished the project the same night.

It is amazing the amount of things that have been hidden in the back of my closet these last 20 years. But of course, there was entirely too much stuff in that little space. At the end of the day, I ended up getting rid of 6 trash bags of clothes and shoes, 4 Tupperware drawers, 73 hangers, 8 empty shoe boxes, and a shoe rack.

So much more organized!

Far less clothes than what I started with!

No Shoe rack! YAY!

This whole project with cleaning my closet has been very inspiring. Here are some of my take aways from this project of cleaning my closet:

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1) The importance of saying thank you

When I first watched, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo,” I though it was the oddest thing to say “Thank You” as much as she does. First, she says “thank you” the house prior to cleaning it. Finally, she says “thank you” to all the discarded items prior to throwing them away. However, I practiced this Kondo method as I cleaned my closet. As I did so, I had an epiphany.

In general, it is a good habit to show gratitude. In a way saying “Thank You” makes a person appear more humble. Although, it seems odd to say “Thank You” to an inanimate object. When practicing the habit of saying “Thank You” to objects, it becomes very easy to let these things go without remorse. It gives a person a sense of finality. Therefore, helps to get rid of any emotional attachment to that object and there is no sense of regret after throwing it away.

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2) I feel so much better (even though it is just my closet)

My closet is such a tiny portion of my room (even my house), that it seams like such a minor thing to feel accomplished about. But, it is more than just a small space. This room was in such a state of disarray for such a long time. Not only do I feel like I reorganized my closet; but I also reorganized a small portion of my life.

turned on silver macbook on white bed — Photo by Daria Shevtsova on Pexels.com

3) Updating my Bedroom seems possible.

There are certain goals/projects that I want to do to update my bedroom. I have been wanting to do this for a very long time. After all it has been a total of 20 years since my bedroom was last updated. Although, the idea of doing this project seemed a little overwhelming and intimidating. I did not know where to start or what to do. This made it feel like it is more tangible.

Now that my closet has been completed, I see better and easier ways to tackle updating my room. It will start with cleaning separate areas of my room. Then it will involve repainting the walls and wood work. After that, I will start investing in nicer/newer furniture, mattress, pillows and bed sheets. Finally, I will need new art on my walls.

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4) I am super productive when I keep the TV off

On Saturday, I woke up and immediately started working on homework and reading my Physics textbook. Of course I took breaks between work, but even during those breaks I intentionally kept the television off. It is absolutely amazing, as I sit and reflect on all the things I did Saturday, the amount of things I was able to accomplish.

While intentionally keeping the TV on Saturday, I was able to accomplish more things than I would have thought. Here is a list of things I accomplished during this time:

finished 3/4 of my calculus III homework
started a blog
created a Facebook page
cleaned my closet
threw away 6 trash bags of clothes, 73 hangers, 8 empty shoe boxes, organized my photos, and etc.
completed reading chapter 3 of my physics textbook

I would highly encourage everyone, at least to spend one day of the week with the TV off. It does not matter if you are a student or not, keep the TV and occupy your time doing other things.

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