Blog Archive

History Unraveled: An Extremely Short History of Xmas in America
The evolution of Christmas in America is a case in point. Gaining a historical perspective on America is not easy with current events and social media sucking up all of the oxygen. However, looking back through the decades and centuries it seems clear that life in these United States has always been more or less […]

America’s Only Coffee Grinder Museum + Coffee House is in Clifton Forge, VA
It’s rare when you discover a great coffee shop with equally delectable scones and biscotti. Even better is coming across 17th century coffee grinders, lush plants, and paintings by local artists. In the heart of downtown Clifton Forge is Caffé Museo: Museum of Antique Coffee Mills & Coffee Bar. Since opening in October 2019, this […]

In the Spirit: I’ll Bring the Wine!
I have been in the beverage industry for nearly 20 years. My family and friends know my passion, and often ask for my advice. I am also the one who brings the wine for the holiday supper, sharing it with a wide range of wine drinkers. There are some wines I save for intimate family […]

My Dog & I: Single But Social
It’s a blessing to have a Dogfriend in your life! A perfect best buddy and a patient and supportive partner who needs care in return and gives you a reason to get off the couch and out into the world… As the two of you grow into a wonderful symbiotic duo, reading the other’s mannerisms […]

Spirits up this December w/ Hashtag Lewisburg City Paper!
LEWISBURG BOASTS A MAJOR ANTIQUES SCENE Spirits up this December w/ Hashtag Lewisburg City Paper! Lewisburg boasts a major antiques scene and is home to Brick House Antiques, The Sign of the Golden Rabbit which boasts generational heirlooms, Patina, The Very Thing, Lewisburg Diamond and Gold’s estate jewelry, and Tattered & Worn Antiques and Primitives. […]

Grandpa Larry: Let the Reeling Proceed
I decided to go to D.C. and find one to interview. If you are not already reeling from the incredible unraveling of events this year, then come along with me to Washington, D.C. where I have ventured, to try to get some understanding of how this current political election is going to turn out. I […]

In the Spirit: Boozy Gifts for your Loved Ones!
Boozy Gifts for your Loved Ones! The holidays are shaping up to be very different this year. Stores will be open but most of us will be spending more time shopping from the comfort of our computer desk. The pandemic has also left us with less disposable income forcing gift givers to get more creative […]

My Dog & I: Talk to Me.
Training or teaching your dog anything is most easily accomplished without words If you could see me training my dogs up here on the mountain… You would probably be surprised by how limited the “soundtrack” is. “Training” or “Teaching” your dog anything is most easily accomplished without words. The dog is a being with its […]

Thankful for Blackwell’s & Local Pizzerias around the Holidays!
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times for pizzerias. With so much food available around this holiday, pizza is collectively viewed as fast, convenient, and comforting. The American Pizza Community (yes, this exists), states that pizza is a family’s top choice before busy holidays for the following reasons: it’s a low stress option; it brings […]

WV Artist on Display: WV Christmas Ornaments by Sam w/ Suitcase Creatives
This holiday season, Sam is selling her West Virginia inspired Christmas ornaments. Meet Samantha Cormier, a Nashville painter with West Virginia roots. Sam has always been drawn to creating art and has an Art Minor from Glenville State College. She says her creative side took a backseat when she and her husband moved to Japan […]