Author Archives: Janette

Back to Italy: Matera – The Cave City

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Janette

One hour West of Alberobello in the Puglia region, visitors can find Matera, known as the “cave city.” Matera may be the third-longest continuously inhabited human settlement in the world. It dates back to the Paleolithic period, more than 10,000 … Continue reading →

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Back to Italy: Alberobello

Posted on May 19, 2025 by Janette

About 3.5 hours East of Naples sits the iconic town of Alberobello in the Puglia region. Visiting the “heel of the boot” was a highlight of my trip. I’m glad we had two days to explore the area’s unique charm. … Continue reading →

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Back to Italy: A Local Dining Experience

Posted on May 11, 2025 by Janette

The luxury of staying with family allowed us to try something truly magical. We arranged for a local chef to come to the house and teach us how to make a full meal. We chose stuffed zucchini flowers, pumpkin ravioli, … Continue reading →

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Back to Italy: Royal Palace of Caserta

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Janette

Visiting Italy again was a true blessing. It was so soon after my last trip. I stayed with family this time, which made it even more special. Over the course of one week, I saw many locations. I never heard … Continue reading →

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Diversity is Necessary.

Posted on March 6, 2025 by Janette

Diversity is nothing to fear. Although “diversity” is being negatively brought into conversations at all levels right now, it’s important to remember that diversity is necessary for growth, success, and life itself. Biodiversity is needed for living organisms to survive. … Continue reading →

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Fall Foliage

Posted on November 17, 2024 by Janette

Who doesn’t love to take a leisurely fall drive to admire the changing colors of the leaves? Well, this gal takes the opportunity to do so every year. I used to live abroad, in an area that does not have … Continue reading →

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Jim Thorpe or Mauch Chunk?

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Janette

This tiny town is nestled in the Pocono Mountains. Although I have been to the Poconos before, I have never ventured to this historic location. My mistake was not realizing what a tourist trap the little town would be! My … Continue reading →

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Mississippi: The Magnolia State

Posted on October 17, 2024 by Janette

Anyone who knows me understands my love of decorating and home renovation shows. Perhaps it’s my love of making a mess only to reorganize, making a space feel new. This was the inspiration for a recent trip to Mississippi. The … Continue reading →

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The Point of Pittsburgh

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Janette

I visited Pittsburgh a few times in college, about 20 years ago, and then again in 2014. It’s amazing how your memory of a place can differ from a new experience in a quasi-familiar place. A work conference brought me … Continue reading →

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A Week in Myrtle Beach

Posted on September 13, 2024 by Janette

Living in a valley surrounded by mountains can be quaint, peaceful, and romantic. Yet, I’ll never pass up time to spend on a beach! Towards the end of summer, I had the opportunity to spend six days in Myrtle Beach, … Continue reading →

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