"NO SPAIN…NO GAIN"

We had such fun playing at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts this week! They have a small collection of art from all periods, and currently have a Georgia O'Keefe exhibit. BUT! the best part was the ARTworks interactive gallery! This is "A special place for young visitors! "Paint" with virtual paint on a giant computer screen. Change the colors in a work of art with a computer. Enjoy books, blocks, drawing and more!" The KIA is located in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan.

When many travelers think of Germany, they think of Berlin and Munich or the Rhine wine country, but there are other wonderful cities and states to visit, and Stuttgart and the state of Baden-Württemberg should be on the list. It is on the border of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) region and is a business center for the auto industry and the U.S. military. There is plenty to see in the Stuttgart area and it’s an easy city to travel in and out of to see other parts of Baden-Württemberg. Here are some notes from my recent trip to the area.

When we were visiting the Wisconsin Dells a few weeks ago, we were surprised at the vast array of food offered to visitors. However, upon closer inspection, much of this food seemed more chain-restaurants and old-time diners. We were lucky enough to find three great restaurants - and a coffee shop! - that espouse fresh, organic ingredients, great service, local suppliers, and more.

There is something magical about Lake Michigan - it looks like the ocean, without the salt. I've swim in Lake Michigan my whole life - and it can be cold, and sometimes (though rarely) warm.