Getting Outdoors & Catching Some Fresh Air...

Rock City Park. Olean, NY.

Over the course of these last 8-9 weeks I’ve visited some “hiking spots” around the WNY region. One of the only things helping me not spiral into a very deep depression is getting outside, getting some fresh air and being in nature. It’s really helped clear my head, not think about reality (even if its just for a few moments) and just be.

Some of these spots may be well known to most, some may not consider them real hiking places, and some may not be aware of any of these locations or have never been, regardless of any of those things, below I break down where I’ve been so far and my opinion of each place.

Hemlock Canadice State Forest. No Shoes. No Problem.

Hemlock Canadice State Forest (Canadice Haul Road Trail) - located in the Finger Lake region (about an hour and a half from Buffalo) this was a tricky place to find. There wasn’t one spot per say where you could enter and exit from a trail, at least not noticeably. I took my niece and nephew with me and we found a few spots off the sides of the road that seemed like they were hiking entrances but it didn’t look clear enough. After driving around for a little bit, we came to one spot where we got out and walked a short distance to the lake. I let the kids put their feet in the water and throw some rocks before we headed back to trying to find a more defined trail. Eventually, as I was just about to give up, we came across the Canadice Haul Road Trail, it was a nice trail, clean, quiet and not overly populated with people. We made it about 20 -30 minutes in before the kids said their legs were getting tired so we turned around. I have to remind myself they are kids and not adults.

Overall verdict, a little tricky to find a trail but once we found one it was worth it. It is a drive so I would plan this as a whole day trip, pack some water and snacks (especially if you have little ones you’re bringing with you). Another note - once we found the Canadice Haul Road Trail my cell service was very limited and spotty, keep that in mind as you plan ahead.

Rock City Park

Rock City Park - Located in the southern tier (Olean, NY) this park features an array of rock formations and hiking trail(s) that will leave every visitor happy. There is an admission to this park - $5 for adults/teens $3 for children 6-12 years old and hours of operation are 9-6pm daily (last admission to the park is 5pm). This place was easy to get to, about a hour and a half from Buffalo and was a lot of fun. My sister and I took my niece and nephew and they had a blast. For the most part adults and kids can crawl, walk, climb through, above, and in-between various rock formations that are throughout the trails within the park. They provide you with a trail map so you know what rock formations you are looking at and you get a little bit of history with each one. This is a great place to go whether or not you have kids. Its dog friendly too, as long as your dog remains on a leash. There are some steep steps and uneven, rugged terrain so if you’re looking for a nice, relaxing hike this may not be the best trail to walk.

Overall - fun, dog and kid-friendly, there is a cost to enter, definitely a place to go for those looking for an adventure.

Akron Falls - About a 35 minute drive from Buffalo this is a nice, big park and has a playground area (even though we didn’t go there). The trails are easy for the most part and the view of the waterfall is very nice. Only downfall I would say - the people crowding near the waterfall to take pictures, it made it hard to safely social distance. My niece and nephew really liked this location. The accessibility and ease of walking around I think they favored. The waterfall was a perk.

Knox Farms - About a 40 minute drive from Buffalo, this is a favorite of mine (and Harlie’s). The park is big enough to walk the trails, have a picnic or simply sit on a bench and just stare out at the beautiful scenery. Now that the dog park is open you can also let your best pal run around in the designated areas if you so choose. I like the ability to properly social distance yourself at this park. I also like the little reading library along one of the trails. My niece and nephew have been here a few times throughout the summer and they enjoyed it very much. Harlie loves when I take her for walks here, its one of the first spots I took her to as a puppy and she still loves it to this day.

Reinstein Woods - About a 15-20 minute drive from Buffalo, Reinstein Woods is bigger than what I thought it would be. it has multiple trails with beautiful lily ponds, its really forestry in a residential area where you may not think it would be and they have great directional signage at the main entrance so people are properly entering and exiting the trails and staying socially distanced. My niece and nephew liked this place up until they saw signs to be cautious of ticks and then they thought they were going to get one on them so it made it not so pleasant. No dogs are allowed here, but overall I thought it was a nice place, close to home and I would definitely go back.

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park - Located in Erie, PA Presque Isle was about a two, to two and a half hour drive. My sister and I took my niece and nephew to go to one of the many beaches on site, but they have an abundance of trails that you can bike, walk, run or roller blade on and beautiful views of the Lake Erie. The kids loved the beach, even though it was one of those extremely hot days, they loved being in the water and playing in the sand. This was a great day trip, and cost next to nothing (outside of gas & toll money really). It’s definitely a place I’d go back to and spend more time at. As we were leaving the park a turtle was crossing the pavement and it was pretty cool to see it trucking along.

Buckhorn Island State Park - Located on Grand Island this park is about a 20-25 minute drive from Buffalo and borders the Niagara River. This park was another pretty cool spot with a handful of trails to walk around and some take you right up to the waters edge. Dogs are allowed and its a pretty easy walk, mostly flat in the areas I was. It goes close/alongside the Grand Island Bridge and some of the views are pretty cool to see. I saw some kids fishing and also saw some kayakers and people riding bikes while I was there.

Artpark - about a 45 minute drive from Buffalo, I’ve been to Artpark more times this summer than I think I have been in the last few years. First was to walk around and see the multiple art pieces they have on property, the second was for the drive-in movie series they are hosting this summer and the more recent was for an Art of Walking event where they incorporated a guided walk through the site with nature and creative art performance. It was pretty cool. This place offers not only a nice place to take a walk, but is a good place to take the kids and let your creative spirit come alive. The Public Art they have on display also provides good conversation points if you’re with someone else or with kids and if you’re not, it still offers your creative juices to flow.

Tifft Nature Preserve - located at Buffalo’s Outer Harbor, this is a classic spot for me. Not only is there so much nature, natural beauty and wildlife, but my niece and nephew enjoy this spot a lot. With the various trails they never seem to get bored and only want to explore more when they are there. The trails are easy to walk through and its a short drive from the suburbs. No dogs are allowed. They do offer nature programming throughout the year which is nice for anyone looking for something to do other than just walk around at your leisure.

Harlie posing at Chestnut Ridge.

Chestnut Ridge - Located in Orchard Park, another classic place to visit, I love the hills that the Ridge offers, provides for a good workout. I also enjoy the various trails you can go on. When I visited the park was pretty busy, there were outdoor fitness and rec classes, people watching the sunset and people just out for a leisurely stroll or jog. It wasn’t bad but I could definitely see where socially distancing may be hard to do in some areas when you’re passing by people. Harlie enjoyed her walk here.

There are still a handful of places on my list that I want to check out before the weather gets cold. What are some of your favorite hiking spots or places you like to go to get outside and get some fresh air?

Women Who Move Buffalo - Kailey from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations

photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG

A few weeks ago I came across Buffalo Charcuterie Creations on IG and was immediately impressed with the creative business, so ideally for a friends birthday I planned to celebrate with a picnic in the park that featured F&B from local establishments in the area. It was the perfect opportunity for me to order a charcuterie box.

the picnic not only included the charcuterie box, but wine from Winkler & Samuels & macarons from Fairy Cakes

I contacted Kailey on IG on a Tuesday I believe it was with hopes she would be able to put something together on short notice for that Friday and she was able to! She asked me if I had any requests for the box and we finalized the details on time and place. She dropped off directly to my door step that Friday morning and everything was so easy.

Kailey Dougherty, owner of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations

When I got the box the presentation was amazing, everything was organized, labeled and it was what every event planner dreams of (you understand if you’re a planner). Everything in our box was delicious, some items I’ve had before (hello, Brie!) and some were brand new, but everything was fresh and tasted so good.

my box of heaven

Here is what was in the box:

• Brie

• Eggplant Garlic Spread

• White Cheddar

• Red Pepper Spread

• White Stitton Cheese with Lemon Peel

• Manchego

• Goat Cheese with Honey (this was so, so good!)

• Smoked Gouda

• Cucumber

• Salami

• Fig

• Crackers

• Baby grapes

• Asst. Nuts

Our box was for 2 people, cost $40 and was more than enough food (we had leftovers!) and it was worth every penny.

I had such a good experience that I reached out to Kailey to ask if I could feature her on my site because I want everyone to know what an awesome person and business she has. Check out my Q&A with her below.

photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG account

AND give her a follow on IG: @bflocharcuteriecreations 

When did Buffalo Charcuterie Creations begin? 

Buffalo Charcuterie Creations began during Coronavirus quarantine, April 2020 to be exact. 

How did it all get started? What made you want to start this business?

It started when my mom wanted to do a charcuterie board for a social distance hang out with her girlfriends but didn’t want one large board that everyone touches. We searched the internet for personal boxes and ended up making each lady a box to enjoy themselves without spreading germs!

Are you a Buffalo Native? 

Buffalo native! Born and raised in Amherst, NY

What is your favorite part of creating the charcuterie boxes? 

My favorite part of creating the boxes is the artistic and creative ability each one gives me. There is no right or wrong way to construct a charcuterie board/ box and while creating each one I always think of a new layout or item to add.

Do you have a favorite cheese? 

My personal favorite cheese is Brie- especially with some honey drizzled on top!

Is there a spread or fruit that you must always put in the boxes? 

My favorite spread that I love to put in every box is a whipped goat cheese and honey with red pepper flakes sprinkled on top. That has gotten great feedback from many so that’s a must for my boxes now! I also love to always try and add cucumbers to compliment the spreads that are added. 

What is your go to for food items in the boxes? 

My go to lately has been smoked Goudas, salami and artichokes. I’m sure those will change soon but for now those are always on my shopping list when grabbing ingredients. Another favorite go to during the summer season has been cheeses featuring lemon- they’re more of a dessert cheese and such a great touch in a summer box! 

Where do you find your creativity? 

As crazy as it sounds most of my creativity came from TikTok (I guess that’s 2020 in a nutshell for ya!) When I was furloughed in the beginning I had a lot of time on my hands and once I stumbled on some charcuterie videos I was fascinated and was motivated to start playing around and trying to construct some boards for friends and family. 

Each box you create is different, how/what inspires you? 

Each box is definitely different and the main thing that inspires me is the season! I swear every time I go to the grocery store there is a new fruit or vegetable in season. I love to mix it up to compliment the time of year and also to keep up with trends of what food people are loving that I see on social media’s. 

What do you love most about Buffalo/WNY? 

My favorite thing about Buffalo is that even though it is a large city it has a way of feeling small and welcoming at the same time. I love always going somewhere and probably running into someone you know. 

What is your favorite & fun part of owning your own business?

My favorite part of starting my own business is definitely being able to make my own hours. Depending on the day I can get spurts of motivation at 8 am or some days not till 4 pm. Making my owns hours leaves me a lot of flexibility and allows me to still create time with family and friends during the fun (short) summer months! 

What types of events, parties, etc. are the boxes best for? Each order is customizable, how big of a charcuterie box can you cater to for those interested in ordering from you? 

The boxes are best for so many events- from girls night, date night, birthday parties, etc. I have made personal boxes for just one person to enjoy on a night for themselves. I have also gotten great feedback that the boxes are perfect for date night, picnics, anniversaries and girls nights. I have also expanded from just the boxes to the larger charcuterie boards. I think these boards would be perfect for larger parties. I have a wedding order coming up this September which includes 6 larger boards to be spread around the reception. Very excited for that opportunity! 

What has been the most popular item your customers request? 

The most popular items that people have requested multiple times has been the whipped goat cheese with honey. I have  also had a great feedback on adding in a dessert style cheese so it is now something I always try to add. 

What has been the most unique item your customers have requested? 

The most unique item I have had so far for me was figs! I had never really used or eaten figs before someone requested some in a box. After that I loved them and now I enjoy adding them every chance I get! I am sad they have such a short season because they’re such a beautiful and delicious fruit. 

If people want to order, what is the easiest way to do so?

The best way to order is through my Instagram @bflocharcuteriecreations. For those who don’t have an Instagram they are always welcome to email me at KED2696@gmail.com 

What has been your most memorable client or part of running Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far? and why? 

The most memorable part of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far is meeting all the new people and being able to connect and network all over WNY. This business has given me the opportunity to travel to many places around that area that I normally wouldn’t before. 

My "Staycation" at 500 Pearl | Aloft Hotels

a simple reminder. the vibes you put into the world are the vibes you get back. make them good things. be kind.

Just about a year ago now I won (thru an IG giveaway) an overnight stay at the Aloft Hotels in Downtown Buffalo (500 Pearl). I had wanted to use the stay a few months ago but when Covid hit and everything shut down I had put it off, until a couple weeks ago when I noticed the certificate was expiring at the end of June.

I decided that I would use the night as a “staycation” and thought it would be an opportunity to share my experience on what the “new norm” at hotels currently is. We all know the travel and tourism industry is one of the hardest hit industries for Covid and they are doing everything during this pandemic to gain the guests trust again.

So here it is, let me begin with booking the room, I reached out to the Property Operations & General Manager at 500 Pearl, Kate DelGobbo to reserve my room. From the very beginning my experience was simple and painless. Kate responded promptly, answered any questions I had and just took care of me.

When I arrived to the hotel this past Sunday, right when I walked into the elevator area off the parking ramp I saw the hand sanitizer next to the doors, signs that said to stay 6 feet apart and to wear face masks. Once inside the elevator there are markers on the floor (in each corner) for social distancing and a sign that says only four people can be in the elevator at a time.

Once I arrived in the lobby things were a little different than when I was there pre-Covid. Social distance markers were spaced on the floor, the lounge furniture had been removed, hand sanitizer stations were placed all around the walls and at the front desk.

At the front desk their was a plexiglass divider between the staff and me. Because recreational activities are still not qualified to open in NYS, the fitness center, pool and Spare Lanes (their bowling alley) were not open. Patrick’s Rooftop was open, however, and I did see and hear people enjoying themselves on a nice Sunday night.

w xyz bar (their bar in the lounge/lobby level) was closed Sunday, but it’s open Thursday thru Saturday’s. Once I checked in I went to my Aloft King Room on the 11th floor. Kate hooked me up!! I had a corner unit, with awesome views of the city (see below for photos and video on my IG story). The room was modern and what I will call an artsy/hipster vibe. Pretty much the vibe that you get from 500 Pearl if you’ve ever attended an event there or just went for dinner/drinks. There was a card on the bed that said the room was sanitized. I noticed a lot of in room amenities were removed to - the coffee maker, coffee mugs, ice bucket, and glasses.

After checking out the room, I went back downstairs and walked around the lounge area, took some pics (see below) and grabbed a water from the refreshment area. Everything in that area was pretty much grab and go items only.

Overall it was a nice way to spend a Sunday night and start off the week in a different way (feeling like I was on vacation without ever leaving my hometown). I had a pretty damn good experience even with the new changes that are in effect with Covid. What you are reading or seeing in the news is what is really happening. It’s a new type of norm but for those who like to travel, and want to get back to it or those who are taking that summer vacay trip, as long as you wear a mask, stay 6 ft. apart and wash your hands I think you’ll be just fine, (please note I’m no doctor and just providing my opinion). Also, if you have questions make sure to ask them. I found with each staff member that I interacted with, they were happy to answer the questions I had, they wanted to make me feel comfortable and trust that they had my best interest at hand.

If you’re looking to get out and have a change of scenery for a night but don’t want to travel, think of having a staycation at 500 Pearl, you can make it a fun night with dinner and drinks on the rooftop all while enjoying beautiful views of the city. Thank you Kate & team for a wonderful experience!

If you have any questions about my experience feel free to message me directly or drop a comment below.

Follow 500 Pearl on their social channels for up to date info: 500 Pearl on Instagram

-B

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**I asked Kate a few questions before my stay, see below for my Q&A with her:

During the course of these last few months what are some of the major changes that 500 Pearl has had to adapt to, to stay up to state and health requirements? 

500 Pearl has complied with all of the CDC and the NYS mandates regarding cleanliness, sanitation and protocol. We keep up to date with the state and local agency updates and move through the reopening phases as the state allows. Right now, our pool, fitness center and bowling alley remain closed. We have opened Patrick’s Rooftop and WXYZ for food and beverage service. We have social distancing guidelines implemented as well as making sure all property staff are trained on COVID cleaning procedures.

I would say the biggest change has been our inability to do events and the new protocols for our Aloft Hotel. Our housekeeping department has been trained to the Marriott brand cleaning guidelines as well as what the CDC recommends; and we are doing everything we can to keep our guests and staff safe. For example, we have installed public hand sanitizer stations throughout the property at high contact areas. We have also suspended housekeeping service in occupied rooms to minimize contact between guests and staff members.

It seems like more people are going out and enjoying the nice weather now that summer is here, can you share your experience with how the customer response has been? 

We are happy that the reopening phases have allowed us to resume doing food and beverage in our restaurants. I think customers have been very compliant and understanding with the social distancing guidelines that we have implemented. I think that they appreciate the measures that we are taking to keep everyone safe and are very happy to be out whether on the rooftop or at w xyz. We require all patrons and staff on property to wear a mask in public areas. As this is the “new norm” right now, people have responded well.

500 Pearl is one of the newest, and hippest venues in Buffalo and I felt like there was a lot of great traction with the space before Covid hit. With the travel and hospitality industry being one of the hardest hit, are you hopeful that the industry will be able to bounce back from this? And what are some things 500 Pearl may be doing to stand out from other hotels in the area?

The hospitality industry is very resilient and I am confident that we will come back stronger than we were before COVID hit.  While we are unsure when life will get back to the way things were before COVID, we know that people will want to travel, they will want to celebrate big life moments and companies will want to meet again.  Our industry has come back before and we will continue to come back during and after the pandemic.

In terms of 500 Pearl we have flexed our cancellation policies in our event space until the end of 2021 and  we are adopting new menus and meeting practices to ease the minds of our guests.  We are getting back to the basics of hospitality. Clean and friendly.  We are staying on top of all new cleaning and health measures and implementing them around the property, and while staff and guest interaction will be limited moving forward we are making sure the limited interactions are still memorable.  

Harlie & Me

lover of many things, shoes being one of them

It’s been a minute since I posted an official blog post about Harlie. A lot has happened over the last 10 months and Harlie is thriving and living her best life. Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March and we’ve all been mostly confined to our homes Harlie has loved the extra time we’ve gotten to spend together. From the extra snuggles, to more walks and playtime, to helping me “work” she is by my side all day, every day. I didn’t think I could love her any more than I already do but she is my everything.

she’ll do anything for attention

soaking up that sunshine

living her best life

From her temper tantrums and dramatic lay downs when she wants attention or doesn’t want to do something, she is still the best dog (for me) and I’m so happy to have this extra time to spend with her.

lazy days

For all you dog owners and animal lovers out there, I hope you are equally enjoying this extra time you get to spend with your fur babies. And for all the people who have adopted pets during the pandemic I hope it’s bringing you much joy during what can be a difficult time. I adopted Harlie through Diamonds in the Ruff located in Niagara County. They are one of the many great rescue organizations in WNY if anyone is looking to adopt or foster animals.

-B

Support Local

ink of pine design (thanks K. Sweet for the gift!)

It’s been a while since we’ve all experienced what was once normal life. These last few weeks have been difficult for many, but through it all we manage to find a way to get thru each day. I decided throughout the month of May I would feature different local businesses on my social media platforms. I asked my followers for recommendations this past weekend so I could post and link to their websites below (thank you to everyone who shared the recs with me!). I also am sharing some places I have supported throughout the pandemic. Take a look at the list, many places have been offering specials, discounts or teaming up with other businesses to create special packages. All supporting one another!

Flowers

Gourmet Popcorn

Fresh Veggies

Wine

Fish Fry

Throughout the month I’m going to be surprising people (at random) on social media with gift cards to some of these places listed below.

If there are any places you’d like me to share please feel free to post in the comments or message me here.

Continue to be well & stay safe

oo

-B

• Anna Grace

• Black Monarchy

• Bloomsbury Lane Toy Shoppe

• Breadhive

• Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper

• Buffalo Zoo

• Butterblock

• Cone 5 Studio

• Dani Fit

• Danny’s Restaurant

• Edge of Town

• Fashion Lab NY

• feather & dots

• Fig Tree Patisserie

• Fowlers

• Hartman’s Distillery

• Ink of Pine designs

• La Nova

• Let them LOL

• Lloyd

• Make-A-Wish of WNY

• Mon Ami

• Morgan Reed Salon

• MuseJar

• Oxford Pennant

• Paradise Wine

• Pasta Peddler

• Pastry by Camille

• Penzey’s on Elmwood

• Petrichor Flora

• Remedy House

• Resurgence Brewery

• Ro

• Rusterior

• Shop Craft

• Talking Leaves

• Tarantino Foods

• The Grange

• This Little Pig

• Tipico

• Treehouse Toy Store

• UPward Design for Life

• What’s Poppin’ Popcorn

• Wild Blossom Hollow

• Wild Root Floral

• Wild Things

• Winkler & Samuels

• Wonder Coffeehouse

*Please note some of these small businesses may be closed or have limited hours right now due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check them out. Once this is under control it will be an opportunity for you to pay a visit.

Updated 6/10/20:

Gifts cards given out from giveaways on IG during the month of May - Remedy House (winners Mackenzie and Lindsay), Butterblock (winner Mandy), The Grange Community Kitchen (winner Buffalovebirds), Valu Home Centers (winner Erin)

"Risk Expands You"

Experience Life

In Order To Learn The Lesson

And so it goes another year has come and gone and for many, this time of year is a time to reflect on all that has happened over the last year. It is also a time where we look ahead to what we hope to accomplish for ourselves in the upcoming year.

As I take some time to look back on this past year a lot of thoughts and emotions run through my mind.  I continue to be very thankful for the opportunities and adventures that have come my way. There have been a lot of significant changes that have taken place in 2019, leaving toxic and negative environments and hoping that the decisions I’ve been making are leading me to where I should be. I’m a big believer in things will work out the way they are supposed to even if you don’t see it in the present moment. What I take a way are more lessons on this thing called life.

As I enter 2020, I’m ready to take on more risks, because it expands you, “To make a positive change in your life, you often must take a risk. You must tolerate some level of uncertainty.” I also want to learn to let go of the worrying, and things I don’t have control over and just make every day count.

“Remain conscious of the value of every single day. Ask yourself every morning, “What can I do to make today count? – Live Bold and Bloom”

I’m looking forward to 2020 and what it will bring. Stay true to yourself, find your tribe, and accept that you can't please everyone. Be present in the here and now and savor the moment. Rather than dwelling in the past or fretting about the future, focus on exactly what you are doing with full attention

To my family, friends and the strangers who continue support and encourage me, thank you for giving me a purpose.

Happy New Year!

Xo

-B

Some of the quotes in this post are from live bold and bloom, you can find the full article here.. I shared this article last year around this time as well. It’s a good read on those life lessons we may sometimes forget about.

The Week That Was...

Tis the Season

Wishing you happiness, magic, love, kindness & comfort

This time of year can be more chaotic and hectic than normal. Some of you who follow me may have known that this past week I did a 5-day giveaway on my FB and Instagram pages. The items were from some of my favorite local business owners in WNY and ranged from gift cards to candles, earrings, clothing and travel.

I’ve always been the type of person who likes to give and help others and I am learning that the more I do it, the more I enjoy it and the more happy I am with myself. In the almost seven years I’ve had this blog this was the first time I’ve ever done a giveaway and really wasn’t expecting a lot of participation because 1. I didn’t really know what I was doing and 2. outside of my family I’m not sure how many really follow the things that I post. To my surprise there was an overabundance of participation and it literally made my heart full that people were reading the things I post and they liked the items that I chose to give out.

As we head into Christmas week I am so grateful for the relationships I’ve made with the people I feature on my blog and for you, the people who take time out of your day to read my stories and follow along on this journey with me. It’s a present I’m so thankful to have.

Happy Holidays! xo

-B

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5



The Bali Reset

“Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.” - Anthony Bourdain

Earlier this year I decided I needed a change in my life, with a lot of things - both in the my professional and personal life, so, when Stephanie and Brandon from We Must Dash posted that they were offering a new tour in Bali I decided this was something I had to do. Bali had been on my bucket list of places to visit and I feel like I needed a life changing moment and that was indeed what happened.

I have always loved to travel and most of my travels have been with friends or family. Sometimes I would travel solo, but would always end with meeting someone I knew at my final destination. This trip was different though, I was booking a trip, really not knowing anything or anyone (yes, I knew Stephanie from We Must Dash and Katie from BkindCity but didn’t really know, know them). I was travelling half way across the world and meeting up with strangers, strangers who turned to into really great friends.

The Bali Reset was a 2 week trip that traveled throughout the island of Indonesia exploring rice terraces, visiting temples, climbing an active volcano in the middle of the night to catch the most amazing sunrise you will ever see. Snorkeling in the Indian Ocean, learning to surf, learning to cook Balinese food and bringing home recipes you can make for your family and friends and seeing some of the most beautiful beaches and views in the world. Simply breathtaking.

The trip was comprised of 15 amazing human beings, people who are from Buffalo, Montana, Massachusetts and Las Vegas. And all of us were on this trip for a reason, some to find some sort of clarity, some to celebrate life, some for both. I came on this trip hoping to get answers to things in my life that I am constantly looking for. Not ever seeing or reading Eat, Pray, Love but knowing the concept of it, a lot of friends referenced that to me throughout the months leading up to the trip. What happened though is I didn’t find those answers to things I’m looking for, but I instead came home with a clearer mind, more appreciation for the life I have and a better understanding of knowing things will always work out and align in the manner they are supposed to at the time they are supposed to. This trip made me be more present and enjoy the moments and experiences in real time and not through my phone.

What started for me as being anxious and scared because I didn’t know if I’d “fit "in” or if people would like me turned into me learning to embrace each unknown, each new experience, wanting to see as much as I possibly could and getting as uncomfortable as I could knowing I would learn more about myself. This trip made me want to extend my trip longer so I could learn more about each person in our group. And what helped me with all of this were the people in our group, whether they know it or not each one of them taught me something and helped me become a better person and for that I am so grateful.

I can’t say enough about this trip and about We Must Dash. Not only was Bali Reset a trip full of adventure, new experiences, relaxation and exploring but Stephanie and Brandon literally are the best business owners and look out for their travelers. They are there for you 24/7. Like when my ATM card got sucked into the ATM machine in Ubud, Steph was there to re-assure me everything would be ok or when someone in our group lost her cell phone in the taxi, Steph was able to get it back (she is literally a miracle worker) and when I got really sick in Sanur, Steph showed up to my room with medicine. She is the ultimate trip Mom.

People say they don’t have the time or money to travel or we just simply get to wrapped up our everyday life that we forget there is so much out there in this world, what I’m here to say is you need to put yourself first. Traveling is one of the best things a person can do for themselves. It clears your head, fills your heart, and gives you a new perspective on life and this world.

The whole trip was magical but you really do learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together or a car or ferry ride for that matter. I learned a lot on this trip and one of my favorite moments was learning about the people in our group and singing out loud with each other in the car rides. It was like we were having the time of lives, because we were! Hiking Mt. Batur and snorkeling were runners up in my favorite moments if I had to narrow it down. At the end of the day I could sit here and share pictures on pictures and stories on stories, but the best thing I can tell you is to experience a trip like this yourself, you won’t regret it.

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” -Anthony Bourdain

I certainly hope I left something good behind.

-B

Buffalo Boss Babes

Cover photo - Buffalo Boss Babes Facebook page photo

This photo - Buffalo Boss Babes Instagram post

This Sunday 1/20/19  Buffalo Boss Babes Speakers Series: Community features a kick ass list of women

Beth Voseller from Ace Flag & Visual Promotion
Katharine Phillips from Roaming Buffalo & Exhale Events 
Lindsay Williams from Hoopla House Creative
Raelyn Woltz from West End Interiors

If you haven't been to a Buffalo Boss Babes Speaker Series yet, you have to put it on your list of things to do. This will be my third one and It is one of the best networking events in town, hands down. Not only do you meet amazing women leading the way in WNY but I also find myself more motivated and inspired each time I leave. 

Get your tickets right in the event page below
https://www.facebook.com/events/609412126165616/

-B

A Little Taste of Buffalo Out West

The last couple of weekends I took some time to travel to Milwaukee and Houston. One trip was to reconnect with some of my closest friends for more than just a couple hours and the other was to attend (what we hoped would be a successful) Bills game.

Both trips had a little taste of Buffalo. Milwaukee was really cool, mostly because Shanna and Michelle (both Buffalo natives) were there, but it also reminded me a lot like Buffalo, just bigger - lots of breweries, great concert venues and good food.

Houston was cool because not only did I have the opportunity to check out the Zoo and Discovery Green ( a cool urban green space in the middle of the city), but also got to spend time with a handful of my friends who I don’t get to see as often as I’d like. Houston’s tailgating was good compared to other out of town sporting events I’ve been to, but was still “tame” compared to the Buffalo Bills tailgating back home. The food was really good and the people here for the most part are pretty friendly.

While this trip to Houston especially has given me some “me” time, what I’ve enjoyed the most over these last two weeks is just being around friends that matter the most to me. They remind me to have fun, make me laugh and are there to offer advice and guidance when needed.

While this blog post doesn’t necessarily feature something in Buffalo, it reminds me that no matter where I go there is always a piece of Buffalo with me and that won’t ever change.

-B