Exploring North Carolina with KathieyV

Several months ago Stephanie, Caleb, Maggie and ventured to  Videri Chocolate Factor y in Raleigh NC.  I had heard good things so I could not wait to experience it myself.   So off we went... I love the interior all the old wood and brick. Below is a quote from  their website... "Videri Chocolate Factory began as the shared dream of three chocolate lovers: Sam, Starr, and Chris. From the moment  Sam  first sunk his hands into a bag of cocoa beans, he knew he had a love for making delicious gourmet chocolate, and the talent to match."  They have several items for sale in their showroom. Below is another quote from their website.  I left the links for you to check out. Explore the three parts of our factory: The  retail space , where you're able to shop for chocolate or sip on a freshly brewed coffee. The  factory floor , where you can witness all the chocolate making magic from start to finish. The  outdoor pat...

When I am out walking I too am amazed by all the shades of green.  I think green my just be God's favorite color:-) KathieyVWriter.com

It was Pi (3.14) day March 14, 2018.  Erica called and said, "Mom it is Pi day," and of course I thought she meant pie day, "let's go get some pie."  I said, "sure let's go!"  Of course, she made fun of me when I told her I thought it was pie, not pi.  In my defense, there is a National Pie Day which was Jan. 23rd I just had the wrong date:-) Where should we go to get a slice of pie?  We decided to check out The Pie Hole in Durham.   The Pie Hole  in Durham NC. The Pie Hole was established in 2011 in California and came to Durham 2017. Here is a quote from their website.... "We bake from scratch, by hand, using only the highest quality ingredients. Our pie is served by the slice, individual sized savory pies, whole pies to order, and a signature, specialty coffee program." "Our menu changes seasonally and is subject to change daily." The Pie Hole We decided to go all out and try a savory and a sweet pie. ...

My daughter and I were in the town of Wake Forest and decided to find a restaurant for lunch.  We did not know the lunch options, so we consulted google.  One that popped up and had good reviews, 4/5 stars on Yelp, was  Over the Falls . The restaurant has a nice dining area and a relaxed, casual bar. Here is a quote from their website. ​ "Come Discover Over the Falls in Downtown Wake Forest, NC and our Award Winning Specialty Salads, Sandwiches, Burgers, Pizza & Wings."  The food was excellent.  Erica and I decided to share a wrap sandwich and get two sides.  The bartender split the wrap and our sides items for us which was very helpful.  If you go I recommend the Bruschetta, it was delicious.  I would order that again.  Check out their  menu here. Over the Falls is within walking distance of the downtown strip.  There you can find shops, more restaurants, and a brewery.  I would like to ...

While exploring Lake Lure and the surrounding area I discovered a unique and inviting gift shop.  The name of the shop is  The Hickory Nut .   I drove past this shop several times while exploring the area.  On my final day, I decided I would regret if I did not stop in for a visit. I was glad I did! As you can see from the photos there is something for everyone. From my overview of the shop I found seasonal decorations, plants, home decor, antiques,  crafts, and endless gift items.  The address of the shop is 215 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720.  It is located on the main road between The town of Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village.  The phone number I found for them if you want to check hours is 828-625-2211. So, if you find yourself in the Lake Lure area I suggest you check out The Hickory Nut Gift shop.  You may find an unexpected treasure. Happy Travels and Adventures Everyone! KathieyV:-)

Were you aware that states have a designated state rock?  I know we have the state bird, and the state flower but I was not aware of the state rock.  I looked it up on Wikipedia and they have a list of   "U.S. State Minerals, Rocks, Stones and Gemstones."   So what is our state rock you ask? Our state rock is Granite. "The General Assembly of 1979 designated  Granites   the official Rock for the State of North Carolina." Quote from the Reference Desk I like to think that I am staying true to my home state of NC because I have granite countertops.  Full disclosure, when I purchased my countertops, I had no idea this was the state rock/stone:-) "The State of North Carolina has been blessed with an abundant source of "the noble rock," granite. Just outside Mount Airy in Surry County is the largest open face granite quarry in the world measuring one mile long and 1,800 feet in width. The granite from this quarry is unblemished, gleaming, ...

Several weeks ago,  (Update: back in 2010) , Joe and I decided to head to the mountains for our 34th wedding anniversary.   (Update: He left me at year 37 so he is no longer in the picture.)  We love the Blowing Rock area, so we decided to head up there and do a bit of hiking off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Someone at work suggested that on our way we stop off at the  Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery . She said it was not far off the highway and the wine was excellent and the setting beautiful.  So I found it online, plotted our course and off we went....... Nice welcoming entry.  I thought I was in Europe. Let's go in for a tasting... Click  here  for info and pricing of their wine tastings. Wine is a relatively new experience for me.  I have only been enjoying wine for the last few years.  You could say I was a late bloomer. I thought most of the wines at Raffaldini were lovely.  I usually shy away from the ...