A fully-grown male silverback gorilla can weigh around 400 pounds. They’re also 6-9 times stronger than an average human. So coming face-to-face with one on their turf can be hella intimidating. Meeting mountain gorillas in the wild is also one of the most memorable, adrenalin-fueled experiences on Earth. Volcanoes National Park Our adventure began while…
Purple Reign: This Ohio lavender farm is the cool, calming vibe you didn’t know you needed
The zen begins the moment you turn down the long gravel driveway and head toward that iconic purple barn. The peaceful vibe of this Ohio lavender farm will soothe your senses…and blow your mind. Located in Enon, Ohio, just 8 minutes outside Yellow Springs, Sunset Ridge Lavender Farm is 33 acres of fragrant fields and…
Thinking of Inking? How to Choose the Right Tattoo
I’d been thinking about a tattoo for years. Not the sidekick on Fantasy Island who didn’t say much, but some ink that really said something. So when my daughter Birdie offered to get one with me as a Father’s Day gift, how could I possibly refuse? But how to choose the right tattoo? I’d spent…
Beer, Bites & German Delights: 3 Cheers for Hillgarten!
My good friend recently opened a German biergarten. But even if I didn’t know the owner it would still be wunderbar. Hillgarten Beer and Wine Garden is an upscale (but relaxed and comfy) German-inspired bar and restaurant located in the charming downtown of Old Hilliard, a suburb of Columbus. From the moment you step foot…
Dare to take a Haunted Hike through Moonville Tunnel
Legend has it there’s a haunted railroad tunnel in Vinton County, Ohio. So of course we had to walk through it at night. On Halloween. Now dotted with graffiti and loaded with haunted hype, Moonville Tunnel strikes an imposing image as you approach. Moonville was a small mining and railway town that popped up during…
The ultimate African Safari…Kenya dig it?
I’ve been an animal lover my whole life. Even thought I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was a kid. I was especially captivated by African wildlife. Elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, rhinos and the rest. Life took different turns and of course the natural, logical alternative to animal welfare doctor is…um, advertising creative director….
King-size fun in Tupelo, Mississippi, Birthplace of Elvis
From Tupelo tot to the King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley became the biggest, brightest star in the world. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just caught a thing for the King after seeing the new Elvis movie, Tupelo, Mississippi, birthplace of Elvis, is a must-see destination. Visit the first home of a future…
Your New Profile Pic is waiting in Arizona’s Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
You know the stunning screensaver photos that pop up every time you ignore your TV for more than a minute? Ever walked through one? You can, at Arizona’s Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. While on a weekend trip to Sedona, we took the 3-hour drive north to Page, Arizona. Located just outside Page within the…
5 Fave Buckeye Bike Trails
There are sooooo many amazing bike trails in Columbus and throughout Ohio. I’m lucky to say I’ve ridden many of them with my awesome daughter Hannah. AKA “Birdie.” While I lovingly taught her how to ride a bike, she’s repaid that kindness by now smoking past me and leaving me in her dust. While it’s…
Visiting Capri, Italy with Steve Harvey
When work sends you to Capri, Italy for a quick 36 hour trip, you go. Especially if the job requires a night in Naples, a day on the magical island of Capri, and a recording session with the one-and-only Steve Harvey. We flew out on Friday night and arrived in Naples Saturday morning. Jet lagged…