https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1 daily 0.75 2026-02-09 https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/the-1950s-invitation monthly 0.5 2026-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1770248896257-DF00PQTFZWVQAWV155U1/unsplash-image-spAkZnUleVw.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/33e723cc-3255-49ce-8c09-cefeabac9152/IMG_0732.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - I went digging through our family archive box tucked away in the storage closet. I found my great-grandmother’s watercolor sketchbooks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/4a5a5178-68e8-47fa-afa4-529ef134563a/IMG_0733.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - I also discovered a large bundle of postcards my Granny Ivy had sent to my mum when she was a little girl. Reading, letter writing, sitting outside simply because—these weren’t intentional wellness practices then. They were just life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/2f7d215a-138b-4537-9c73-9e5cf9017071/unsplash-image-yMU3moA8U3M.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - I read about domestic routines and daily rhythms, about walking as transportation, about music that played from beginning to end, about evenings that dimmed naturally rather than accelerating. What I found wasn’t a rule book, but a way of living that allowed the nervous system to settle into the day instead of bracing against it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/b3168e4e-571f-4d4a-a48c-6a5c5523486c/IMG_0739.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - I began calling it the 1950’s Invitation. There’s a particular kind of romance in the way leisure once lived in place. Entertainment didn’t follow you. It waited. A record ended. A book closed. A walk brought you home. Nothing buzzed in your pocket asking for more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/ed7df7b2-6edf-46e1-a4b1-3137fce441c4/IMG_0328.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/e837d28a-86ca-4eae-939d-31fcca4c2eb7/IMG_0330.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - That afternoon stayed with me. Not just because of the film, but because of how it was experienced—no multitasking, no skipping ahead, no shrinking it to fit a smaller screen. Just an invitation to sit still and let something lovely unfold at its own pace. It reminded me that leisure once asked something of us too: attention, presence, and a willingness to be moved. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6d7b3566-a894-4b13-b390-bfcc3c36d1c4/unsplash-image-3ZvHsFiZyME.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/fb60f338-a2aa-4bfa-98c2-63c8980a68b7/IMG_0723.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - A couple of weeks ago, my friend Zoe lent me a novel she was sure I’d love. She was absolutely right. Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan became a favorite beach read immediately—the kind of book you sink into without realizing how much time has passed. Set in mid-century Oxford, it carries the texture of slower days: handwritten letters, thoughtful conversations, long walks taken simply for the sake of walking. I found myself lingering over it, closing it gently, sitting for a moment before standing up again. Not because it was telling me how to live, but because it quietly reminded me of a pace of life that once made room for presence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1770512907475-KDH6WN2E3T75KSLWTP8N/IMG_0731.jpg Blog - “The 1950’s Invitation : Living More Human in a Digital World” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/i-divorced-my-scale monthly 0.5 2026-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/99a8a137-c1d6-4608-97c4-07c603d73f14/unsplash-image-isZ8eLzCcuU.jpg Blog - “I Divorced My Scale” - Sometime over the last few years, I divorced my scale. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1767405128747-BHEQNODBABR8GALHIFM0/unsplash-image-3Kv48NS4WUU.jpg Blog - “I Divorced My Scale” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/maui-christmas monthly 0.5 2025-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/303fb890-c743-40ad-b5dc-b79f62479c58/IMG_6852.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/7db4d896-26ec-40eb-99a4-09307ade23c5/IMG_3509.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Meet Ari, my brother and sister-in-law’s stunning Siberian Husky. She’s the true star of Christmas—prancing and trotting around like a perfect reindeer, bringing joy and laughter to everyone. She’s smart, sassy, and confidently gorgeous! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1619ecd6-beab-4395-9837-2ee958b4a90f/IMG_8227.jpg Blog - “Maui Christmas” - These are my mum and dad’s adorable little ladies, Belle and Emma—or as my dad refers to them, “Laura’s baby sisters.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/e2ec02a8-e68e-4559-a90f-d6351001a952/IMG_6921.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/ef947b78-8970-4060-94ec-99ce91b7cdcb/IMG_6817.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - With no snow to shovel, we embrace the holiday in our own way—building jigsaw puzzles, taking long, peaceful beach walks, and strolling through the neighborhood to admire Christmas lights and lawn décor. This hula Santa is a neighborhood classic! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423992455-D5N0HH8HDUJ30A85IF0C/IMG_6833.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735774257311-GH3NN5BGT3YMXPURIO7M/IMG_2467.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423976082-7E5MYYCOLK4GNZ5JN770/IMG_6822.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735774447499-F18QDG30MAQ1SCJHP89H/IMG_6821.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/e1901a85-9bb6-4bdf-9c24-1f3c51c93924/IMG_6831.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - The Ritz-Carlton Maui never disappoints, with beautiful Christmas magic throughout the property. This year however, they went above and beyond with a special Lahaina-themed gingerbread town, dedicated to the restaurants and shops that were lost in the 2023 fire. It was a heartfelt tribute, and the craftsmanship was nothing short of confectionary genius. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423587405-NQ7648UHZXPIAS02VHYX/IMG_6827.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423586183-6G6CLPZAU6KXK7ELWJDO/IMG_6828.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423615275-DAQI0T7NHUDF6D5E8PUX/IMG_6829.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735423621554-R9A25CTNMAIOPIXL60SJ/IMG_6832.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a83affa4-cc54-4901-a836-e4d19f16e33e/IMG_6836.jpg Blog - “Maui Christmas” - And, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance to make the experience complete! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735436319958-XSFZVP632KVAAKA1JUGJ/IMG_6841.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735436394527-32W322P9VT3YYRVQF878/IMG_6843.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735436323963-UPIHEOZ6EZ4XVZZO9C9Y/IMG_6842.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735436394535-SKQO25L17QZ6P96W13TM/IMG_6844.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735778244203-TXRVTDXTGQ4GDW6LP0UV/IMG_6845.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735778238161-7QS9EIZFXUB6PV6Y2V5M/IMG_6847.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735778294495-38QS8NM3V9OQY6BD5GTI/IMG_6858.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735778292778-1NW0IADNTU87W3PLKBY2/IMG_6875.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/25528614-ac7a-432c-8f4f-712a829acd1b/IMG_6863.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735424211933-NNC65T17D2GBNA74NR0U/IMG_6132.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735424257524-QPMA6GYL1GF4R82G35YO/IMG_6866.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735424210667-MZX4XXLZQVO0V2DU1ST1/IMG_6865.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1735424298963-CYTJ2ENEI9IMK4XG49RW/IMG_6870.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/79a49ad2-7bac-40f3-8632-d259d72db38a/IMG_6877.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/b8d03d7d-c2cc-489c-92e5-2e02c7e029fb/IMG_6885.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - On Christmas Eve, our family dinner is always held on our lanai, the open-air dining room that’s become a hallmark of our island lifestyle. This year, my dad’s iconic lantern took center stage on the table, casting a warm glow over the festive gathering. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/bf061797-cdc1-48e0-b5e6-cbe145bff76f/IMG_6890.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Christmas Eve night was filled with family, food, and gifts. My Aunt and Grandmother made these gorgeous stockings for us years ago, and they’ve become a cherished tradition. They still hold up beautifully, year after year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/9d3da803-ceac-4e57-a1ac-bc6ad1a3407c/IMG_6750.jpg Blog - “Maui Christmas” - Speaking of beautiful creations, this stunning Christmas Crown (Lei Po’o) was made by my sister-in-law, Jenny. Lei Po’os are head leis typically worn for special occasions—whether it’s a wedding, a graduation, or a holiday like Christmas. Wearing one is a festive delight, especially knowing the flowers were freshly picked and woven together with aloha (love). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6dc6f3f3-273a-4fb6-8847-f4ca2027dedf/IMG_3985.JPG Blog - “Maui Christmas” - All this Christmas joy has left our sweet Ari completely tuckered out! Thank you for joining me on this little glimpse of what Christmas looks like here on our island and in our family. I’m sending love and blessings to you and your ohana in the New Year! Please share a Christmas tradition from your family or a Christmas highlight in the comments below! https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/richmond-in-autumn monthly 0.5 2024-11-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/efe5603e-341d-4db2-b1f6-2893a96287d2/IMG_4561.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830502295-6X1XSSP6BAR4UB4OSTOS/IMG_1385.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830580993-BO9DK7W1KWCSSL6BCKS6/IMG_6365.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830581367-NUMA8QWJXT4W8MLPDE2D/IMG_6460.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830595054-OBHUYJ122GUASL2S60SO/IMG_6341.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830603810-3A8VWH1X4XE24SMIBL5R/IMG_6405.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830607386-OJCIS2MH02RLFUZOXTNS/IMG_6407.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830612435-VNZTK5C1KYO4VUJ2BEYK/IMG_6468.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732911331466-FKTUNMUB2PUIWLIP4YLZ/IMG_6254.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830516503-3KFPGZH31PP0ZLOXHSVJ/IMG_6362.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830941858-CDBW3FFMZ21TSOEA9YKN/IMG_1455.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831012010-5GIAY9BMZCRKQZFLU4DG/IMG_1458.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830960070-I27OT0VYHZIQKHRSQ2MF/IMG_1462.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830988678-GJCCBYYJNMS5CJD2N6B2/IMG_1460.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831010220-4EXE88SQB39R3L7HJG0T/IMG_1463.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732911811202-L0JRL7LSKXFG41EMA6XS/IMG_1452.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732911908359-JO08P4CNPGC0X4Q6Q2NG/IMG_1464.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732911858485-SFP7OFSA15CQFYRT08Z6/IMG_1457.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732911913687-J1KBQVN8UY5G5TOGGXNV/IMG_1465.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830998925-D949AGSSZMU6H1TFNY7M/IMG_6251.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - The castle’s main tower dominates the town’s skyline, but the best view is from Bishop Blaize’s garden, home to the oldest pub in Richmond. This historic inn, dating back to 1546, offered the perfect spot to soak in the town’s timeless charm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831805702-24ORNIB8TPUMMEBC884E/IMG_4697.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831775438-IRI45H37XKVFZIVJIQUU/IMG_4698.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831816640-WNMRK8P4YC35MLWJ1AYL/IMG_4696.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831823995-JIJWTMF7DS6QRFN698UP/IMG_4693.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831835595-3VKXYT49YBNDF7Z8CZVH/IMG_4579.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831783084-9K4LQ5WB59F72CQ3QM5L/IMG_4691.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831813023-396YPO989HSPEE0DH3MX/IMG_4690.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732831835597-OPY97EHXLMGU8B59CWI9/IMG_4576.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732830496470-U6GWFMETF5D6XZ93OFOO/IMG_1494.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732829782643-011VI3M611S4GV3AP362/IMG_4362.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732829775005-7DURTJ2DUXSFXD8U2TJ2/IMG_6233.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732829769602-H8O18LTE0M003EZ0BP0U/IMG_1381.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732829779397-SF8BK8U8Q44MILGEP5TW/IMG_6250.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/9bbc436a-afb9-4c27-8b2c-91308d24ae81/IMG_4304.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - My host, Neil, lives in London but owns the delightful 17th-century Millgate Cottage. With its cheerful yellow door, this charming retreat is tucked just a stone’s throw from the main market square, nestled in the shadow of Richmond Castle. The thick stone walls, steeped in history, kept the cottage warm in winter and cool in summer. But for this island girl, a sweater was always close at hand! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826114496-LFBFZQYWGOETDBGKNYPM/IMG_4575.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826104577-VR8YYHYAHMJY9EI92K5M/IMG_4687.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826114499-34BGRP3Z8CR7TE7PIB68/IMG_4573.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826112645-NXX985NND8FTSJVT0DW0/IMG_4524.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/7b2aebf6-5222-40b2-9581-a83b4eb7f1c4/IMG_4351.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826417020-V0M9F5QKUWCJL5YI6XJS/IMG_4606.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826416439-8S1BK4ZHS358P6DCC7U9/IMG_4605.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826416318-EN333NK9MT8ZGEU1AYF0/IMG_4610.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826403065-MWJI03QP3YULKB8WFAQO/IMG_4350.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/9e8c8c6d-e977-4043-b74a-0f19d9f01846/IMG_6239.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732913525151-JJSQ5CN8Y28Z81ZW0D2V/IMG_4826.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732913578133-WKVY2RNUKSLECMHOSXH1/IMG_6315.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732913606550-M5JRZHCIHY83K36IDBHO/IMG_6316.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732913956836-5DUG6R7HHTK106DIX5D9/IMG_4657.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732913944394-IGFRG2DW86ZMCUQ4272O/IMG_4659.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732914011018-E7S1ELRWC8965YQFUU9I/IMG_4676.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732914076026-EQZFJ6H8N0BTAE5DJT9N/IMG_6242.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732914081761-GCEUG27XBWFI8RDA2LZ9/IMG_4712.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/548ca7fa-00cd-4617-8fdf-8d465f080cb6/IMG_4596.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826971577-OVBIANS1W94S46ZFYVOK/IMG_4591.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826964129-FGRPYA7OHI434N0RBA9O/IMG_4599.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732826958064-1DQZW27HRMWN64PUGMCW/IMG_6307.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732827337856-LG306I44MLF6B0V3HDNN/IMG_4498.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732827342140-VUCDQQ1B7LY3LT6KJ6AS/IMG_4419.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732945920050-YRMVAYTNZ44YJ7Y1THJ0/IMG_4414.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732827338714-9XNDKR4498354C7DIUR3/IMG_4407.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732946178439-Y1YZU8Y3XMT0RJVN9U4L/IMG_4412.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/f440c380-15f8-44cc-bd8b-04bdf4b323d5/IMG_6437.jpeg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” As my time in England drew to a close, I couldn’t have imagined a more fitting farewell than Richmond. From the castle’s timeless majesty to the warmth of the townsfolk, every moment felt like a gift. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915731251-D4A5LXQRAIDQMFEXKSIL/IMG_1537.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915729930-F5HKBDS8Q9TYX8PL3M6E/IMG_2857.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915766804-AT9YYXLVODM0T2MEB1JE/IMG_3166.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915808262-9FMGQMOVZ5EW5XL6MVVM/IMG_3858.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915841723-N79W3ZWVUWNOYVJL1H2X/IMG_3916.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915855832-KY9NZNNSDMFZMVHO8ZHV/IMG_4183.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732926530407-MAOQ042186KE76A40F08/IMG_0864.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732915869721-HOOB3DIIODLC67DF3E3V/IMG_4552+-+Copy.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732926592834-5I455BWR38X8BZ9W63Q3/IMG_2768.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732926600539-ASJV8RJ2902XLIRXXB7N/IMG_3738.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732926923500-U7VTWXTEE616J4QM670R/IMG_4129%2B-%2BCopy.jpg Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1732926658444-FC4JES5IEG8GK8LMU1HX/IMG_5825.JPG Blog - “Richmond in Autumn: A Storybook Farewell” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/powderham-castle monthly 0.5 2024-10-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728308667940-BHWFYW6Q53VR36BAD7DD/IMG_6064.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a75ac54b-58fd-473a-937c-c464d5127b08/IMG_6136.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - My journey to Powderham started with a scenic 30-minute bus ride from Exeter. The #2 bus drops you off right at the castle gatehouse in the charming hamlet of Kenton. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/642b8124-3c11-451c-8515-f58b848d4f62/IMG_6134.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - After disembarking, I walked down a tree-lined path that connects Kenton to the fortified manor of Powderham Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/441ac654-da2f-4721-9ec0-dd6085e36895/IMG_6034.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/d0c441da-eb81-46c6-8318-317686d2baec/IMG_6062.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728308670349-H7ZAI6TQCPTGKT1LQH52/IMG_6133.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728308665951-TCSKLAVCP5GLU73APGWY/IMG_6130.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728308661594-L98M0GE515Z1CBPKQWTV/IMG_6071.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728308666911-58D1842LU0IEXKDIEYET/IMG_6067.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6e8ae2e3-9703-4adc-a0ed-80b27f68b1d5/IMG_6072.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - During my visit, I took one of the guided tours of the castle. We were lead by Dave, whose booming voice set the tone for what turned out to be one of the most unconventional castle tours I’ve ever experienced. Each day, supposedly, the guides are allowed to give one tour that is exclusively their own style, they can go anywhere and talk about anything they want. Dave seized the opportunity with enthusiasm! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6c2bfe37-b8bd-4aea-8672-4af978ccf526/IMG_6073.jpg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Suddenly we were ducking through secret passages, causing some surprise when our group of 36 people and 1 cocker spaniel emerged from behind hidden doors disguised as bookshelves. We were the envy of other tours as Dave unhooked ropes and disregarded signs that read “No Admittance”. The other volunteers rolled their eyes and mumbled, “Oh dear that’s Dave’s 11:45 no telling where he’s taking them.” I half expected the castle HR department to come running after us with Non-disclosure agreements and Liability waivers. But somehow we carried on and all survived the unorthodox tour with Lieutenant Dave at the helm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312468628-ASANPVYK7V5EXGATC5RP/IMG_6099.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312321190-ATE68NWS5HKOGOZARV10/IMG_6106.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1730042192608-X5XTJEIGI86QE3P067FU/IMG_6125.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1730042630911-BFII57E6YXZ5S7U6JD82/IMG_6092.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312321905-B1RKXU4T09PDYBKSRG41/IMG_6095.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728313148051-1TRUCLK1SROFHPECM20Y/IMG_6078.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Powderham has seen many alterations over its more than 600-year existence, adapting to the needs of each era. Walking through its halls felt like witnessing a historical kaleidoscope, where every room told a different chapter of the castle’s evolution. For example, the original medieval hall was later transformed in the Georgian period by the addition of a grand staircase—designed so the ladies of the house could ascend more comfortably in their voluminous Georgian skirts, avoiding the narrow medieval spiral staircases. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728313147555-C36WLPJHTVCUAKMQAVI0/IMG_6103.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728313149952-H8ABKZ4I0CXCZF2NTT47/IMG_6080.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728313149353-3S06IVP8WZS2OC6ED320/IMG_6079.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312466426-KX2LBFL9C8WSLI2HBK9N/IMG_6075.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - One of my favorite parts of exploring the castle was chatting with the volunteers stationed throughout. In the library, archive and restoration volunteers were meticulously cleaning the 8,000+ books. The process involved carefully turning each page with gloves, special brushes, and pillows to protect the books’ fragile bindings. Among them was a manuscript from 1525, written in Latin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312465374-QHXNCTXP69ZOO83CHMCX/IMG_6076.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312465809-CIYWKRKAESI5NJ7ZOHDI/IMG_6102.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312468598-GPKNF6PM88NRWB8F2DHE/IMG_6074.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1730042368877-HKSASUHADU3R86GQZ1IB/IMG_6107.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1730041357806-6L4WZBEGQ0M7XZSG6ZYX/IMG_6086.jpg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728313649776-1K1NJUO9LJLRR7ZZRUEF/IMG_6091.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309188416-KCCFWGS7N0LIXLIGXKDF/IMG_6117.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309176953-GCSU86BKAVHOUCFMI1KH/IMG_6050.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309186043-I64SLUV0I3NZPNG670DW/IMG_6115.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309186887-2BRYLPRV8DPRIK8ICEWB/IMG_6126.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309190915-HYCSB2H4E45JQOJN6ZNS/IMG_6110.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728309386569-0D4ZYHCZ1MA03KR04DNI/IMG_6121.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396892827-TVNNEBP1YOMTQANEDRI3/IMG_6047.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396898396-VC8Y4J0C1I7K3GE8IY0S/IMG_6038.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396896948-QFDIH4HPAHXREVE7MCSV/IMG_6053.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396899752-JKF3TB8ABZKR02NZC7KD/IMG_6048.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396894482-1IB8ZV2GU8Q5T9YPGW3M/IMG_6045.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396895463-K3X3FR6HDS611CG2G1BH/IMG_6051.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728396898404-6146YJXOZH4Y74HQFQX9/IMG_6046.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728312321037-BMZ178FSVMYA4PAVTFAR/IMG_6108.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Powderham Castle: A Living Landmark” - My visit to Powderham was truly an unforgettable experience, blending history, community, and nature into one remarkable journey. This room seemed the most perfect for afternoon tea or a wonderful place for a game of liverpool while cozy beside the fire on a rainy day. Let me know in the comments which room you would want to explore most! https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/devon-days monthly 0.5 2024-10-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/40066280-dcd5-4332-ac94-59309b26b702/IMG_5901.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662363158-D33O7VMNTXL1WXUH3TOW/IMG_5902.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - One of my favorite things is that dogs are allowed on trains—I’ve seen so many adorable pups along my journeys. Like Charlie, the dog featured below, who settled right by my feet. He was the sweetest, and I was happy to have his company. Later, he lounged next to his owner, completely stretched out on a seat of his own. The ticket inspector said that Charlie looked like the most contented passenger on the train that day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662545106-M12HDKCLZT9JYHG3HVC2/IMG_5320.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662544261-5GGEK0BRGXRBMJQ4VVRF/IMG_6226.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662545947-6VV0FMX4PVSKKKEKN831/IMG_5319.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662799329-Z6BR9RSBG590KEZERQZY/IMG_6138.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728913011264-GCCGROCN2MTBDORUUBHT/IMG_5988.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662798986-W0RRNDHYAVG9COLK3EQV/IMG_6160.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662798601-43U6ZHUQA1BGB3AYDSK9/IMG_6161.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662668646-8RKYXD10DPBW0RT1M4BY/IMG_5982.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662675385-3DEZOC61TA34VQ123HHM/IMG_5983.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662672107-1QUI9K9UH9I96MB56GVA/IMG_5984.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728662674917-2WENDC82441KTIKDL8WC/IMG_5987.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668449285-UUI2W4CHMRE5OH87SUMK/IMG_5992.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - The Royal Albert Memorial Museum The museum is housed in a beautiful Gothic Revival building made of local red sandstone. Inside, you’ll find four main collections: antiquities, art, natural history, and world cultures. The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, and while the collections are vast—featuring both massive and tiny artifacts—the museum isn’t overwhelming. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668446467-W4CAXHMEK5VM9QL72SSM/IMG_6010.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668447058-OV62IL0REC2HW3VMM0LH/IMG_6006.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668438655-DKHJELWOWE2AB2ZRCCVE/IMG_5996.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668447652-UL503C52VIGHV1PODQ8H/IMG_5995.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668291126-VDOT1DFP8AM5HU3PCEMJ/IMG_6022.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668284806-OCL7ISI7H1PJQX8031KS/IMG_5980.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668296228-VGE6WQPNS9B0NA9I53B9/IMG_5977.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668293432-3WLHMURPHHKH4L8L5A8J/IMG_5981.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728993710227-W409X7NUL5R4HT0HHP1Y/IMG_5978.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728993710796-RIE6FDASIWW3M4KC3860/IMG_5976.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728993711507-7DKH2ZD5RR56Q22VFPQK/IMG_6023.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6a3d3541-0dcd-4c29-af06-24b29ada75c6/IMG_6012.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - Zizzi’s Italian I enjoyed a lovely lunch at Zizzi’s on Gandy Street, one of Exeter’s prettiest shopping streets. While I usually prefer unique, local spots, Zizzi’s never disappoints, especially with their attention to food intolerances. I enjoyed a delicious gluten-free vegan meatball and harissa jalapeño pizza—spicy, tangy, and the perfect fuel for an afternoon of exploring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668110149-FO5GEPZKLBWAQA6YMOC5/IMG_5962.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - Belle Isle Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668103429-ISHUZHSGBY1Y2AOKBGXE/IMG_5965.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668104222-5NZEEFEUUC34O9VLK6LA/IMG_5973.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668092559-PAZWXPMUC42P94GZIH5C/IMG_5975.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668094745-UPQFN5VTUZ0M7XDI7TE5/IMG_5971.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668102494-OAOS8H7RTJPUAKM19OIW/IMG_5970.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668098326-9VKMWV0IRTEYHL29C2IW/IMG_5968.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668103698-4C8VAORO5K7WN1JZMGVW/IMG_5967.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728993782461-S2YJHXG5OCDW9MDREI6V/IMG_5961.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1728668636797-K0BXGVKK4LH79RJ0COBS/IMG_6029.jpeg Blog - “Devon Days: A Nostalgic Return to Exeter” - closing paragraph https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/a-sacred-morning-in-gloucester monthly 0.5 2024-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727271791700-DYYDL27CX23F2KSE63OS/IMG_5251.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727271788880-QXQBACOJZW6EHUFR402E/IMG_5253.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727271796378-7FKDNYY8ZANXB0DHWWG8/IMG_5233.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727273187678-5D7DIP53DPRAV1W4UZQI/IMG_5224.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727273188462-M02PQ6NCD5DRXC8X622L/IMG_5223.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272110359-RJUVV4L1TCIBTGJNL6JL/IMG_5255.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272109104-ZI0KQZ742OPVYDIWLB8Q/IMG_5246.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272109788-G2L9YBM7B9GJBGAYMZCY/IMG_5265.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272108151-9B3XYW9TVDJ2NY954NNY/IMG_5229.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272486298-UYYVO35PFMGR0ZTUZXZU/IMG_5273.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272913138-TFY77P99E0UDL5SKMIYD/IMG_5269.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272914308-0IK4DIBRKYK7G49HOBPM/IMG_5268.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272914720-S94OI03HNQ0V0KYNB1QQ/IMG_5266.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/94cf1804-ba67-4dda-a96c-4e0bc8625360/IMG_5270.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” - Nestled within the cloisters is a secret garden, which is where our yoga class was held. Lucy, our instructor, led us through a peaceful flow, as the cathedral’s organist practiced in the background. The ethereal music added a dreamy quality to the class, making the experience feel surreal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a15de914-e2bd-4274-a19a-813b4cffa9e0/IMG_5271.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” As I moved through the poses, I learned that monks once lived full-time within the cathedral, sleeping in the cloisters and walking through the very gardens where we practiced. Imagining their quiet lives filled me with wonder and curiosity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272489244-IRW4II5LL0ZBWFKMU00H/IMG_5296.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272489242-1M3SXH0DR7ONDLTVH0J3/IMG_5280.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272497700-JFRMQR5IQAVQW8ZUGD3N/IMG_5305.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272484114-GX7FSNKNM29E239C3N8T/IMG_5289.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727963466509-VTGRQHMW8HYPCS0XK06E/IMG_5300.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727963466400-705IT43G6KKHIZ0C3P4M/IMG_5304.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727963465976-HBX8EMRH80FSHD2C8UJI/IMG_5291.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727963465415-Y0I0Z757ISK2XZFQ6209/IMG_5287.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1727272099350-SFGTDGAR92VWRJZZ8WTI/IMG_5260.jpeg Blog - “A Sacred Morning in Gloucester” - Thank you for joining me on this journey through a taste of Gloucester’s rich history and tranquil beauty. I hope this glimpse into my experience brought a little peace and inspiration to your day. I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share in the comments below! May you find moments of stillness and wonder in your own explorations, wherever they may take you. https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/village-life-in-the-cotswolds monthly 0.5 2024-09-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554283675-O9PJV7FP84E8B29NRDMQ/IMG_5169.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546848459-2AUPOCN80C0CWU7RV59J/IMG_4998.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - I had the privilege of staying in Dursley for a month, fully immersing myself in the charm of Cotswold village life! Dursley’s 18th-century Market House is the town’s centerpiece, standing at the junction of its three main trading streets: Parsonage, Long, and Silver Street. This market town has a population of 7,463. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546848052-XOFNNV3S9HWSI2C16GHP/IMG_5001.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - The pedestrian street of Parsonage is lined with charity shops, where you might meet Jane, an 88-year-old local who volunteers one day a week at each of the five charity shops. If you time it right, you could be assisted by Jane in a different shop every day of the week! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546848560-YWCWUGGIZXKM6TP8U7TB/IMG_5003.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546849383-IPXBGHFLZPYOQSTIP4NS/IMG_5073.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546845959-1M22K1VF8GWAPMPXEB1N/IMG_5429.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546438493-JHOA281MCOKVHZQ3OQZW/IMG_5046.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546438103-NI3XHBH1AOSI8PENAR14/IMG_4990.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546433079-HSJXH07KUAVHCWG9JDND/IMG_5040.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546440367-SWPI739B9TMDRHDJLYXL/IMG_4985.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546309229-J4K6TNPCTZFAGFL4QAR1/IMG_5423.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451418946-VK4ZDEDNZ2Y3J71EEXV7/IMG_5192.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451417571-RKA10OARLVAZAU7XSPBZ/IMG_5056.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451417571-RMT28QCFIGJNGN7FRVOR/IMG_5050.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451418503-O9STQ4VQ3LWKD187A56T/IMG_4988.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451271864-GIELKSNGBZ74N0LT618E/IMG_5052.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451273825-I0XFD1UBEJ7PRZN6OB9N/IMG_5020.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451274111-4JTDLS1IR7J1YGN74YUQ/IMG_5079.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451274107-8PPGU8M85GO0VRTX8R5A/IMG_5031.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1724853759845-7KIBWNWUN4OB6KRP4CWF/IMG_5211.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1724853759627-ZN4JQ6UFQ187ZBMWQZWG/IMG_5307.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1724853762027-P5LES9LXJ7NLN4TKA3BH/IMG_5212.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1724853762339-YXY1I5SPMYFRW6Q029DK/IMG_5202.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547014480-DHI8JDFTRZ76ZEJSSB9G/IMG_5013.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - St. James the Great Church One Sunday evening, I had the pleasure of attending a beautiful Evensong service that featured the local choir and organist. Evensong is a traditional prayer service rooted in Anglican tradition that blends scripture and music to create a reflective atmosphere. The parish church itself dates back to the 13th century, with bells—installed in 1904—that still ring throughout the day. Centrally located, the church remains a key part of the community’s rich history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547013874-WV6UNOMQY4DLUFZELS5U/IMG_4991.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547014144-UI6QKBT2PEPBTD1DV1BH/IMG_5068.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547013220-XI3472NCYPTE1XLU3I2A/IMG_4995.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547013398-446FBQ1VG6MV7RD9D2G1/IMG_5071.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723547014501-1UW2PYVTWTIAELZCJU92/IMG_4994.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - The community prayer wall was deeply moving, offering a space to share and reflect on prayer requests from others. The church, open all week for prayer and contemplation, encouraged visitors to add their own requests and lift up those already on the wall. It was a blessing to be in a place where prayer was so active, fostering a sense of connection and hope. The requests ranged from illness to gratitude, making the wall a powerful symbol of both need and healing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723546437283-3DZ4V6YN6C5GRI8Q3MBA/IMG_5209.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - St. James the Great Church could be seen from my cottage window and garden, and its bells were a joy to hear. Whenever I heard the bells, I would step into the garden or open the window to listen more closely. They played everything from beloved hymns to nursery rhymes like “Frère Jacques.” Sundays felt magical as the bells pealed for the morning services, reminding me of the scene in the 1950s Cinderella cartoon when she and Prince Charming descend the steps after their wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554403725-HH03BF4MYF2Y71DALOVZ/IMG_5010.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - 80% of the area is dedicated to farmland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451590873-06EE1L2TK3D0MYY8BIYS/IMG_5146.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451593242-W4A740KB9YX4GXTGVGN3/IMG_5141.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451593907-TJ90KRX5DQRUH1QUQZ18/IMG_5142.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725451596407-N01DXR97AUNBXZI8IWQ5/IMG_5147.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723553965047-04O3HSERI0NIAXR021I7/IMG_5118.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554045900-I7WH264XUK5WZOUDN7WS/IMG_5107.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723553965316-0FSIOKXU4WL2OYVTLLRW/IMG_5131.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554031663-5KOU7MIL7HR51M7WVU92/IMG_5081.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554045269-14K7EVOTUOXYYE5EL902/IMG_5094.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554039684-89P20D3UC3OZDTR34ZAQ/IMG_5111.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - I was intrigued by the large holes that I had assumed were fox or raccoon dens, but Keith explained they were part of a "badger sett"—a series of tunnels and chambers where the badger clan lives. Badgers, a protected species, play a vital role in the ecosystem, and Keith hopes they’ll make the woods their permanent home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725460838430-GXG2EJBTNBH9SBUBJ42D/IMG_5394.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725460849673-S7DB5Z7HI2RF2NJIM5CJ/IMG_5088.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725460844755-YWDIACPTYT13JOL243WC/IMG_5092.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1725460848509-O2V23X026WQEFQK33O15/IMG_5105.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554283183-D0X5UXKHZV61RN8ORKJI/IMG_5149.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” - Make it stand out The Climb to Cam Peak! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554283133-8GWBTES2G9Q3Y653BXWF/IMG_5166.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554286274-P7KLVVAT76HTCZADCE5Z/IMG_5164.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1723554285421-UGJFBNW3JEFHQ3VNMWOB/IMG_5173.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in the Cotswolds” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/all-my-favorite-things-london monthly 0.5 2024-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/510fe890-5c4f-4daa-a03b-011a7f08e2d1/93539e67-fd38-4a01-8f24-84a7dca485aa.jpg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - There are a million things to do in London, and each time I visit, I tick a few more off of my list while also revisiting some of my favorites. It is certainly not a city you can master in one trip, or perhaps even in a lifetime. I feel very fortunate to have been able to return repeatedly and continue exploring its many facets. This time, I stopped over for a few days to celebrate my birthday! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415810798-8QE7LLOZD25RFG93MCI1/IMG_5172.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415672918-YFQXR39WHR5HD3KPWVNH/IMG_1567.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415762820-K7CLJICK6DFJ3OODU403/IMG_5169.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415712887-588CYX3MXAF14APSQJVJ/IMG_1109.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722416537911-32YRLHB8VN0EF0EPC5FZ/IMG_5146.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417341223-PRPWCD04G2QHH7KXAF9A/IMG_4882.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415716130-CX3NKZWUU9QF8W6D7W98/IMG_1131.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417344641-O7RX1FD86OSZWRMN9WHS/IMG_0915.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415970636-6X29XRF94U0681URZP6Z/IMG_5337.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415971023-UYMNTO3YOJ7U0F8XGJOG/IMG_1142.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722946656001-25DYL24GFTZJTA73J03I/IMG_1537.jpg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415970637-DLE9LHBF5SNQYYITBMUJ/IMG_5336.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722948778090-6TMHBEU20T26HKKOPJ8L/IMG_1572.jpg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/02c4f150-e3e6-4128-95d4-933d211c83d3/IMG_5342.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - The Cream Dream Pastry Cafe, located in the Covent Garden district, was opened in December 2022 by Lisa, a confectioner and Ukrainian refugee. The cafe is exclusively run by Ukrainian refugees and Lisa works hard to cultivate a welcoming atmosphere for her team to work, connect, and improve their English. Adorned with pink flowers raining from the ceiling, the cafe, radiates joy and delight. After chatting with Yasia, the head barista, I chose their pink dragonfruit matcha and slammin’ avocado toast, both of which were delicious. This is definitely a place I’d love to return to and gradually explore their entire menu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a5e3393c-26e5-416e-b400-b984c207a6c7/IMG_5362.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/6043fbd2-a2d7-4282-a79c-d54b1f973cf1/IMG_5365.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - The steam engine train crossing the stage during “Put on Your Sunday Clothes” was particularly impressive. The musical’s witty and wholesome quality delighted the large audience, showing that what some might call “old-fashioned” still resonates. My favorite scene was the Harmonia Gardens restaurant. The dancing was top-notch, and when Dolly made her grand entrance down the stairs, the audience erupted in applause and cheers that nearly halted the show. It was epic! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/88d4abc8-6ce0-45f3-8270-7e4e5380812f/IMG_5358.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - The Borough Market is lively with crowds every day of the week, and it’s a staple of my London ventures. I have my beloved vendors that I visit each time. The Freefrom Bakery tempts with incredible delights for those of us with intolerances. Spoiled for choice, I selected their lemon meringue cupcake and spicy carrot cake—both were such a treat, perfect birthday cakes. For lunch, I ate at Dosa Chaat, one of the permanent street food vendors and my favorite South Indian food spot in all of London. A dosa is a rice and lentil crepe filled with an aromatic potato curry. Traditionally served for breakfast, dosas are delicious for any meal! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/dc790874-84c4-4ec6-aad5-aa56f5abe8af/IMG_0948.jpg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722416080739-824S9NSHC3HM858OSGKS/IMG_0956.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722416081898-VHVTDYFH7CBP7HZQXEMZ/IMG_1547.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722416073791-5ZVUB39VQPN2QVH34BSE/IMG_1546.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417125777-E6TL9W86Z5WOB0E3IDDX/IMG_4830.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - The British Library houses over 170 million items. With such an abundance of resources, where does one start? I personally always beeline for the “Treasure Gallery”, a trove of original manuscripts, parchments, and books. Here, you can view some of the world’s most important legal texts, including the Magna Carta and the Domesday Book. My favorites in the gallery are the religious texts, featuring early Bible manuscripts from the time of Jesus through the Middle Ages, and even a Gutenberg Bible. The pages of these texts are like artwork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417128198-1VGW2T3AJ9UPIF77A60A/IMG_0917.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417127296-ARQY5QLMZ31Q47I0RC9P/IMG_0919.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722417126450-JAVN7SPK5LFFOR0YLYG3/IMG_0916.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/4da86b02-b986-41ad-a571-424c935c0db9/IMG_5376.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949070499-P78PGONWICIT0JXD5FDQ/IMG_0952.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949072229-JFK6EUULN1C0TXLJ2SBM/IMG_0954.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949072254-UPYRFXI3OV3Y75C9NHD8/IMG_0950.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949074804-P359WNWTET6HPRH2XINF/IMG_0953.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722415808060-LW71A3L18ZX4QVGVF1YM/9f69ca6b-f9de-4e12-a752-1dd483ef2b48.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” - Thank you so much for joining me on this mini-tour through London of some of my new and old favorites! Let me know in the comments if you have a London favorite I should explore next time, or if London is still on your bucket list, what would your first stop be in this fabulous city? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949232014-AYBRDFKY9HBWLY75VINU/IMG_0333.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949229858-MWFED64RPKIF59PLNAER/IMG_4877.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949230475-NMIQ91ISKY0LHL1CTLOE/IMG_4759.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722949229415-CE1E0QYHYZQXCEWJ7PIU/IMG_1122.jpeg Blog - “All My Favorite Things, London!” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/experiencing-grief-in-grindelwald monthly 0.5 2024-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125400696-78D21CX6QX5ABNBQEEP4/IMG_3568.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722334671332-7ACA4KB7IF43EES2CYL6/unsplash-image-_zJmRY63EcY.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125400048-9ZO38TWS6BOFRUSDUQ5M/IMG_3572.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125398938-LYAADWEFSFDI706Z0YZV/IMG_3574.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125399878-D3230SH559KPEA4NELY8/IMG_3575.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722342860151-TTWU3GWQ6E3GZZ654EDU/IMG_3570.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - I paused at a few lookout points, but none felt quite right for my picnic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125031044-S36V3JJLU9BHRVOOMZ2U/IMG_3593.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - A few more minutes of strolling through the village led me to a church, which instantly felt like the perfect spot. As I approached, I was drawn to the Friedhof, the most beautifully kept cemetery I had ever seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125034965-79IGIN757XVWJ7KPN0WN/IMG_3594.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - The grave plots had been transformed into individual gardens, each lovingly planted with a variety of spring flowers. Many were adorned with gnomes, figurines, clay butterflies and ceramic frogs, creating a whimsical atmosphere. No two plots were alike, and it was clear that this was an active and well-tended graveyard, with most of the headstones dating from the last 20 to 50 years. Fountains dotted the churchyard, accompanied by watering cans for visitors to easily tend to their loved ones’ gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125034486-QZI3X3MIE4H87GY0RGP3/IMG_3598.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125035831-THWEYYBBFUX677ODDXLL/IMG_3603.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722344267710-3BPKNGKRCDZY4G80LT3O/IMG_3579.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722343366536-CMU02R7AZ8JGTEWOEJA2/IMG_3586.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/0dc2b05a-e4e8-49be-9567-534a76e6a47b/IMG_3596.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - My eyes wandered over the familiar Swiss names like Rudolph, Fritz, Hans, Peter, Johann, and Christian. Many shared the same last name, and I wondered if they were cousins, brothers, fathers, and sons. Their spouses bore lovely names like Klara, Kristina, Margrit, and Katarina. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125216768-TV5SFQGM26ODA7HE19BP/IMG_3587.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - I was struck by how much life was present in a place that normally feels like deep sadness and an end of a life story. Instead of feeling sorrow, I felt uplifted by the abundance and vitality of the flowers. It seemed to me that these deceased individuals were flourishing in heaven just as their plots were bursting with color here on Earth. They had exchanged their earthly forms for heavenly ones, now residing in a place that is eternally growing and vibrant, never fading or diminishing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1721125218929-0XG40NOOHHQ3XWMA49MF/IMG_3588.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/11b5c335-ee24-4c86-a94b-3be843aad710/IMAG0013.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - In my mind’s eye, I imagined her sitting with me, reflecting on our years together. She appeared to be about 20 years old, much younger than I had ever known her on earth, wearing a darling peach-colored 50s-style dress and chatting as though we had all the time in the world. (This is Mary Alice, my grandmother, at her bridal shower in 1958.) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722329614620-3UZ5VKRYDHX2MQUB3LQH/unsplash-image-4ZgmCmPXMmI.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - We reminisced about the many times we baked cookies together, and how the entire kitchen would be dusted with flour as we made pie crusts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722330716444-CDPBZPVS5834BZQ0FPS0/unsplash-image-OV4oTyLfvDo.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - I remembered the grilled cheese and ham sandwiches she would make for us after hours of playing in her pool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a4d35c28-c168-471a-bf45-7d7899bc104d/IMG_7447.jpeg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - I also recalled the time I unexpectedly spent the night at her house and had nothing to wear the next day. She sewed me a dress that morning for my aunt’s work BBQ party that I was to attend—a white dress with colorful butterflies, the perfect outdoor BBQ attire in my 7-year-old opinion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/2a6000c9-21fa-4e4f-be35-937203c889f8/IMAG0173.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - As I sat on that bench in Grindelwald on a warm spring day, all I could think about was the taste of sugar cookies and the excitement of watching a “new” Elvis movie with her—new to me, though not recently made. It felt so good to recount and smile over these memories, which had been overshadowed by sickness and family drama. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1722330790741-P4FNRUYAKNUDQ8BS16YN/unsplash-image-5Gkf2QctRRQ.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/393da296-b871-4f63-87ed-cfd7beb14c85/IMG_3987.jpg Blog - “Experiencing Grief in Grindelwald” - Please feel free to leave a prayer request in the comments or the name of someone you have lost so we can all hold their memory together. I also want to hold space in the comments for my Maui Ohana as we come to the one year anniversary of our devastating wildfire which was on August 8th, 2023. Our town and its people are forever changed and will not be forgotten. https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/exploringvillagelifeswitzerland monthly 0.5 2024-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718264027669-NO1JL8WLWT1YT6J2CR7Q/IMG_3822.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718875512402-L625ACUFNYTAI9J281AE/IMG_3875.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718875516395-U1PXF75LJNKD7MPSWHRC/IMG_3971.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1719040724665-JUU3YDA4YB9AM8RLHRBG/IMG_4078.jpg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199389041-ZR58J767R5TZ1YCFJTVA/IMG_3951.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - The Berwert family, serious outdoor enthusiasts, had a garage brimming with e-bikes, skis, snowboards, sleds, fishing poles, tents, and hiking sticks. Andrea kindly lent me her beloved e-bike, “Roberta,” who became my chief exploration companion. Together, we roamed over hills, through valleys, and around the lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718995931423-94A7KC4E0S2V829K9YOD/IMG_4043.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199385341-CKE2ME5YGN8925EUYJAS/IMG_3831.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718995931264-UQ0D3ARZ40S6PADBHCAQ/IMG_3625.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199387865-KDZF0MJVN21FC9WMJMGW/IMG_3828.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718995930953-HL9GBW70YI8H74E2LOZV/IMG_3841.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199388155-5GSWLTE9Y6N0RE8248M8/IMG_3953.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718995932348-7X6ILC3CPM7FER90J3F9/IMG_3954.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996222337-4Y2G4SPWOP3BK1RCCD2S/IMG_3958.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199056524-C9H0X87U94WWF69I9MBA/IMG_4018.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199055207-EIHOUQKH06H7P3QCN9RJ/IMG_4029.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718264029098-BELFI8HUQCAYJPMY8LRL/IMG_3819.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718263807820-HPBPJWGE0OYMRP109OLQ/IMG_4002.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718263807662-RI7GS4BGD4NSLTP6DWQH/IMG_4004.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718263798986-JZX83J2NVDJOBC9XMHOG/IMG_3998.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718199040241-QSMPBA2A0Z0WXS0YLDAQ/IMG_4011.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718264028550-PW47XG65CFVMGAMO17X2/IMG_3547.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186236101-SZ74DBGBM2JX2H8OVVAV/IMG_3640.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718185914977-2MWZ4H2FF3EGN2LKKM4H/IMG_3502.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718185920741-SQE43YZGIR2ZRBSAV8YD/IMG_3506.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718185916602-EK4K0OWG0JJIW6EESKH1/IMG_3501.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718185920733-4CP60QFMY9K42KLQ1IK5/IMG_3505.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187110031-PVS9OL6OINRSO2A01C7G/IMG_3916.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996398562-XO0UAHAPO2P4AH38MWPB/IMG_3913.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996396642-CQUAUIJU3BYAAML9341V/IMG_3918.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996396791-HLZSF9A1Q6WR4U6FNJLG/IMG_3917.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187106313-48LUEL0XQJTOZEJCQWKO/IMG_3922.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187110662-KPNPKFUCKY8L5XRIPKEH/IMG_3906.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187107179-6U7S071JAJNRCKYG4DHW/IMG_3920.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187601236-BBX1K67YCP7VI79NO7HH/IMG_3936.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718615301686-9R5PBM3QCYKJVTDHRP5X/IMG_3929.jpg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187601579-0OPT187GZON6W0FFTJKB/IMG_3928.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718708396337-98GABNRPKT8T5MQJK4DT/IMG_3932.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718708397508-8APMKQLLCMHMYJQWOOIQ/IMG_3931.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718187598778-LFKVGGS3GF48OP6PA28I/IMG_3940.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” My favorite sauna room was the Himalayan. It was warm but not excessively hot, and the glow from the salt stones made it visually stunning. The serene atmosphere of the salt room was unexpectedly delightful and peaceful, making it a standout experience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996581581-K0ZOE6J553W3HAENNPDV/IMG_4048.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996582277-AWZ8B2NXCLXRAMOMNCNX/IMG_3561.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” “A Shocking Encounter While Cycling” One day, I was cycling through the dandelion-covered fields, enjoying the marvelous views and the sound of the bells. I paused to take a picture and had a shocking experience—literally. As I pedaled my bike to the edge of the path to snap some photos, a gust of wind blew the seemingly innocent rope fencing against my leg, delivering a sharp electric shock that traveled throughout my body. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996579952-RU2OFS7LEYWZNZ4R1Y69/IMG_4057.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” Startled, I moved to see what had happened and was zapped again as the wind blew the fencing into me once more. This time, the shock traveled through me and my e-bike, making me yell, “AAAHHH!!” and scramble to get back onto the path. I laughed at the situation, grateful the shock wasn’t more powerful and that neither my pants nor the bike were damaged. I had never realized that these flimsy-looking strings around cow pastures were electrified. I naively thought the cows stayed in their fields out of habit, not because of electric fencing. Now I understood why the cows kept a wide berth from these seemingly innocent strips of ribbon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718996580926-IRW8YO0H0RS1CSO2FQXF/IMG_4037.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” Later, I learned from farmers that these temporary electric ribbons are easy to move and set up as they rotate the herds to different sections of the valley. Near roads and lakes, fencing is necessary, but up in the hills, it’s not needed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/9ca402c5-50c6-44e9-b67a-f577ce1e9849/IMG_3833.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Mirgg Llama Farm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718875721646-C387V47D3GR8YRES0QMX/IMG_3862.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” The llamas were incredibly gentle, each with a distinct personality. The curious ones, eager for affection, would come right up to you, resting their faces against yours. Their velvet-soft lips and noses would gently breathe you in, feeling like a sacred welcoming ritual from these unique creatures. You would then wrap your arms around them in a hug and stroke their soft fur along their long necks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186494458-LDENZB8922FGBHY21K82/IMG_3845.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186494907-C03UWGMMNDQG9ORJYZ6L/IMG_3865.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186495170-WLFIIBJ1IPSMTKR32A6I/IMG_3863.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186493888-6H838XFJTR0Y12JSEHWJ/IMG_3858.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” Cyrus is 4 years old. He adorably was very ready to pose with me for a picture. His coloring reminded me of a giraffe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718186494116-0ZS0LT7JZ316766BQ98A/IMG_3848.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” After a tour of the farm, we took several of the llamas for a hiking adventure. Leonardo, my assigned walking buddy, was very well-behaved, only trying once to sneak a cheeky snack from a gardener’s wheelbarrow as we passed by. We walked through lovely forest areas, across meadows, and along grass-filled hillsides, all offering sumptuous views over the lake. Normally, I’m an avid horse rider when traveling in Europe, but this llama hike may have just given me a new favorite hobby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718976523973-NZWTUO6TZ3J9NIRH26SN/IMG_3820.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718976522111-YCL4Y6UXEWIO9ZO8IJ2D/IMG_3836.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718975984731-LJMOMA1L1CSYHLJ7DP22/IMG_3817.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718976522110-167E8ESG8WDCBHNNUUIK/IMG_3824.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1718264344458-848Y8L9TYUOZ9TPJLP66/IMG_3629.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Village Life in Switzerland” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/exploringzurichwithlaura monthly 0.5 2024-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/def255f7-0a5f-4f9f-89cc-6d939dcc035b/IMG_4183.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893362142-TQ0XMMV2L9IPWV0NIO61/IMG_4187.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Make it stand out The river Limmat flows through the city which adds a marvelous feel of continuous life force to this hydroelectric powered municipality. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/cd1f8206-ec73-4e8f-8794-940679b2e761/IMG_4085.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - L’Ange Protecteur: A Guardian Angel at Zurich Main Station Upon arrival at the Zurich main station, I was genuinely stunned by this colorful angel hanging high overhead. While I confess to not fully understanding many contemporary art pieces, I found this curvaceous angel to be nurturing and fun-loving as she faithfully hovered high above myself and fellow travelers' heads. In 1997, Niki de Saint Phalle created "L’Ange Protecteur," a gigantic guardian angel, to preside over and protect this bustling station. ”Nana” weighs over 2,600 pounds, stands 36 feet tall, and has become an iconic sight for the over one million daily Zurich tourists and commuters. The sculpture's colorful attire and golden wings are carefully dusted every three months using a duster and compressed air spray to preserve the vibrant colors. The angel was a gift from the Securitas Company to mark the 150th anniversary of railways in Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716892847759-XC6HMR2KL5ZZG3N461FP/IMG_4133.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716978925407-DNT851CF0QYRAVUSCOQ3/IMG_4150.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716978925380-E6MTRBGD423D1GBMXOUK/IMG_4181.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716978925380-42NV21MOGHT9R5QXI6UB/IMG_4180.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/5ebf5b97-d7b1-450e-8362-d61d709d69cd/IMG_4139.jpg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Münsterhof Square During my wander, I came upon the iconic Münsterhof, the largest square in the Altstadt. Car-free since 2003, the square now features a large fountain, 20 feet in diameter and 13 feet tall, aimed at enhancing public enjoyment. On this surprisingly warm spring day, I was amused to see a cheerful dog owner and her two Labradors happily playing and drinking in the fountain. After a quick splash and a sip of refreshing water, they continued on their walk. Zurich boasts over 1,200 public fountains, each offering free drinking water. These fountains vary in size and ornateness, but all are available for everyone to refill their water bottles or take a refreshing drink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893779955-5M9TG8CASQZX3CO6R4CY/IMG_4141.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893776147-MH69VHGKGRBC382A3T8L/IMG_4144.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1717168933599-PBGM2H6FA13Q58ZWCB46/IMG_4135.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890223249-4R69OEOLFYI9IC0V3VP2/IMG_4168.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890221047-F385DT67FIN9L8FS59BJ/IMG_4171.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716891715775-MVZHQYIS191KBM4TJTVY/IMG_4172.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890222471-3ZJZXMBIYR3RFRZNP246/IMG_4176.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890221553-1URGWX629NDZY4AWRKXR/IMG_4175.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893155568-MNSQAFAELO935U29O1WV/IMG_4162.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893154600-G0E7OF77MDZZVNADK2R1/IMG_4151.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893157897-O89T216W55QIPDJE8DEX/IMG_4164.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716893156321-4LMGX3HBQ9WEFB7LFZYF/IMG_4159.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890054924-YUMOX75BRYUAVN7I7FZ7/IMG_4129.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Cruise on Lake Zurich Lake Zurich's boat transportation is seamlessly integrated into the city's public transport system, offering both convenience and scenic beauty for visitors. Once onboard “Uetliberg,” I settled on the outdoor top deck for a picnic lunch, soaking up the sunshine as we cruised leisurely around a portion of the lake. The experience was incredibly relaxing, offering delightful views of the green spaces and outlying suburbs lining the shores. The scenery reminded me of Northern Vancouver, where neighborhoods are nestled among lush trees, blending naturally with the environment rather than disrupting it. Zurich seems to have expanded with a mindful approach to its natural surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890054312-AHPQ0NXCQGNN569EIORW/IMG_4093.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890048817-LEWG6BYJN1J25MQ745IZ/IMG_4119.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890056070-OTNMWSICC3ZNY0KM59MM/IMG_4112.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1717163269894-Y9RW9DL74UWWG470AQIC/IMG_4130.jpg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890748839-3JX223RGOV9313DYRER2/IMG_4192.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716979252269-L2LQ3KESZVV3ROEBW5J8/IMG_4197.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890625053-K23S2CSRVVM85K7TU072/IMG_4216.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890620972-N4AT8B3MNHREHNUXSODA/IMG_4202.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890613981-M0GJJW8PLIIXKO2EJAGC/IMG_4206.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890616146-XU3AS9EXYQ01A9RJ4GZE/IMG_4214.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890618709-ANHSOOZH7AW845PHUCV4/IMG_4218.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716890624785-5WHD43YN383PXYADDHC1/IMG_4208.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716979253158-5HPK771V3OZHR66C7T06/IMG_4200.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Zurich with Laura” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/exploringamsterdamwithlaura monthly 0.5 2024-05-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714815512353-OH5CFZ7UWPYP3GSH6D7N/IMG_3275.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864218537-6H9O8TZNL7WNT7A8OM2E/IMG_3276.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864217926-FHJ4WN2WWBCP5IIXSQV6/IMG_3242.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864219018-2O11VDG58TJ1BLYCRG1B/IMG_3250.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716228469136-Q0SHPVJRQ6KDM6JD3GIE/IMG_3237.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/9230a178-3394-47aa-89ee-b54e6fbdc4b2/IMG_3236.jpg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715243283745-ZCD9UGI6A5N2MK30R95V/IMG_3252.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715856084089-PQMRV8TN9RWSAG5RG8M0/IMG_3238.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1716227978499-JH5GTDJFSFZ0T20031PS/IMG_3254.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715243304508-H968TMKAPQZQO17G4RN4/IMG_3240.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715942631331-CWMJIWD0A2GYSCRNYYVO/IMG_3259.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864524778-FYO5AOLUL96TM672WAII/IMG_3309.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715942629741-EPV9HE7PA14T103DBKXX/IMG_3245.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715942420567-FJCN5YZXADKIF8Q54SCR/IMG_3296.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/c3ea950c-04ab-4fd1-9410-3be163e9aae8/IMG_3278.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Greenwoods, a beloved local spot along the Keizersgracht canal, often sees long lines, with patrons queuing across the street until the host calls them to the next available table. Accessing the dining room involves descending steep, ladder-like stairs, as the kitchen is upstairs. The diligent wait staff skillfully navigate these stairs, balancing dishes with precision in a seemingly chaotic yet efficient manner. Once you’re fortunate enough to secure a table, you descend the stairs quickly yet cautiously as you are seemingly propelled to your table, once there you can relax and peruse the menu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a1fc0ccc-d3f8-45b8-9d96-5b6a144758ac/IMG_3246.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Canal Boat Cruise A visit to Amsterdam isn't complete without a boat tour of the canals. I chose the Blue Boat Company from many options, mainly because they offered fully enclosed boats, and rain was forecasted for the day of my tour. This turned out to be a wise decision, as we experienced all seasons during the 75-minute journey. We started in glorious sunshine, then encountered a sudden downpour. Afterward, the sun reappeared, but a cold wind soon brought hail, with little frozen pellets striking the glass-enclosed boat. Despite the unpredictable weather, we glided along in complete peace. At one point, we passed a "luxury all-inclusive cocktail cruise" seeking shelter under a bridge to protect its guests from the harsh conditions. Servers frantically handed out blankets as the guests huddled together, trying to stay warm while sipping their cocktails, topped off with ice courtesy of the sky. My boat even provided squeegees to clear the windows after each gust. It was a great experience! cruise blurb https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331061083-8KJ1PTF4SL90VKJ2ZHMB/IMG_3267.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331963184-MP6G1P2XWKF1IN4GX1ML/IMG_3270.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331963677-FTZDQCQXTLAV9UQYBFTN/IMG_3261.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864382233-GXAX63FOTBZMQD5S9U0P/IMG_3269.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715242317397-NEO2HPUD3D3V6FBTN3TN/IMG_3279.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Make it stand out During my time in Amsterdam, I resided in the Noord district along the north riverside. Despite its reputation as "unpolished post-industrialism," I found the neighborhood utterly charming. With the metro station just one stop away from the central station, commuting into the city was effortless. Additionally, living near Jumbo’s grocery store, which is akin to a Whole Foods, was a convenient perk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/7fddb406-48b2-4610-bd7c-2049b79719dd/IMG_3225.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Lowlander Botanical In my neighborhood, there was also a waterfront restaurant that occupies a sprawling warehouse. The atmosphere was inviting with potted trees adorning the space, complementing the lovely flower arrangements gracing each table. The establishment had cleverly divided the interior into multiple small living room-style spaces. I opted for a soup-sandwich combo, indulging in their borscht soup paired with their open-faced roasted oyster mushroom sandwich with homemade sunflower spread. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/d60683cf-dfb4-4913-92f3-6a5f12ca2f0c/IMG_3285.jpg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715863531196-9DTNIUZQV8SXS30IB02I/IMG_3337.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715866533679-6QQTY0A7V9APAJTLH0ZH/IMG_3341.jpg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715332995692-9FKT5ZHWEDSJ466QRKK1/IMG_3328.jpg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715866867493-9AGYK51FHMNDCUFCSJ8B/IMG_3342.jpg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715938879681-E1YC3CLAIDXVSDJ2R1UQ/IMG_3293.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715942749057-MLXO99CTFO18APEHG1ZF/IMG_3287.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715942750195-DC648N7M8USKA5Q90Q3O/IMG_3286.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331612899-WW9M1LGWU840VQOY3WUB/IMG_3336.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331617305-VRHU6YL4XLPU6QSGMIY6/IMG_3332.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331619583-3SWPTKRSYYMWKMCN27XD/IMG_3329.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715331621755-ZS8W86238CYK6VNGGZ42/IMG_3339.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715939013031-F74RHKDIRVSNDATCBWAH/IMG_3300.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715939017290-LEH5ANIXNF8D6PZ8Q93T/IMG_3301.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715939019228-6NK9A606R4GQ61W1LG8P/IMG_3324.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715856290833-NP5Y80LGZ5X1OVCKTRWZ/IMG_3314.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” - Walking around Keukenhof, I couldn’t help but feel my maternal grandmother's presence beside me. Being the English lady that she was, she had a special fondness for gardens and water features. I had many moments of imagining her wandering with me, almost hearing her exclaim over the vibrancy of the hyacinths or the soothing sound of the fountains and rock waterscapes. One of my frequent tasks at her home used to be adjusting the water features to achieve the preferred pitch, tone, and speed at which the water cascaded. Through years of training, I confess my ear instinctively stops and listens, either giving the nod of "Granny approval" or smiling to myself, knowing she wouldn't have liked this one—too rousing or roguish. She often waxed eloquent on the difference between a pottering fountain and a tootling fountain, to her there was a clear difference. All her years of boarding school must have truly refined her into a lady with a sensitive ear. I like to think that she now enjoys the gardens of heaven, I am certain their fountains cascade with perfection! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715856291192-UNIVTFN9D106JB055N44/IMG_3312.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715864558002-L47FYHD75VKEHB7761CV/IMG_3311.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715863373119-HT11R1GPL1GOK4HD9DC7/IMG_3323.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715863979118-N46QOE3L37WXC0Y46PM9/IMG_3321.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715856292578-0V65W4CGIKC9JYRBPN4B/IMG_3303.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715863374754-S3453D9QPCCHFKRWYGTG/IMG_3320.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715856292579-STHJTF9WFNM8U1HT2M2K/IMG_3297.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1715944168295-P02WIHU1ASCTLKCKTI41/IMG_3313.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Amsterdam with Laura” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/explorehollandwithlaura monthly 0.5 2024-05-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/5398c659-77aa-4837-8611-a6c593b0b517/IMG_3162.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/98dba288-933f-4861-b01c-f870c6a8c9b4/IMG_3194.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - Windmills have been integral to Dutch life for over 900 years. Initially they were used for milling grain and evolved to also pump water, saw wood, and more. While once numbering over 9,000, only about 1,200 remain today, and they continue to be a cherished symbol of Dutch heritage. During my travels in the Netherlands, I encountered many of these iconic structures, each with its own unique story. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/aab7c82a-9013-44b5-b94c-05c43219ee35/IMG_4074.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - Springtime in Holland is truly enchanting and not to be missed. I was captivated by the beauty of the Dutch tulips which are celebrated worldwide for their variety, thanks to the country’s favorable climate and innovative horticultural techniques. Witnessing the kaleidoscope of colors and shapes during peak tulip season was an experience that left me absolutely mesmerized. It’s a sight I’ll treasure and not soon forget. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/d4b02c1d-7a67-42a5-87f1-738c6c179200/IMG_3203.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - Cycling is also a cornerstone of typical Dutch life. From leisurely grocery shopping to invigorating day trips through the countryside, my bike carried me effortlessly through the charming landscapes and picturesque villages. I savored the freedom of quick jaunts into town, where I indulged in visits to my favorite cafes, each ride a delightful adventure filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of Dutch life. Cycling became more than just a mode of transportation, it became a journey of discovery, connecting me intimately with the beauty and culture of the Netherlands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/115eab8e-b193-4a49-b24b-22fdb4d92f07/IMG_3156.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/3a3563af-cde4-43d5-b236-88c46f2342e2/IMG_3224.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - Alkmaar has also held the distinction of hosting the oldest and largest cheese market in the Netherlands, earning it the title of “Cheese Capital of the Netherlands.” Everywhere you turn, the sight of large cheese wheels further reinforces its reputation as a cheese lover’s paradise, making it easy to understand why locals proudly say, “Say Cheese, Say Alkmaar.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713542889387-2T7K3HEJ9289TGN4NEVL/IMG_3154.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713542886003-F8PX2WW2G5N6U96A1BKQ/IMG_3155.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713542880806-R8Z4MDHQWBBSBI1D93OK/IMG_3166.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714140957029-J00XTK9KW862W32ICJGW/IMG_3195.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714384777947-YB61BMT5J78UM69UV1IC/IMG_3157.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714718557943-1YMPBOAEHT9U2EGG52WC/IMG_3167.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714718559616-EUS3XW3P36M31RHK3ZFK/IMG_3193.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714718559619-8ZMAPZ6RI8INBRYCV92S/IMG_3170.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/30845856-25e0-4ba9-a6ff-93bb3f688d6b/IMG_3200.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - My hosts raved about a unique little cafe called Soepp, so I knew I needed to check it out. Their eclectic mix of decor captured my imagination right away, roller skates hanging from the ceiling, lush house plants adorning every corner, vintage jukeboxes standing proudly alongside shelves filled with classic board games. But the true star of the show was Christoffel, the resident manager, a sleek gray and white feline who effortlessly presided over the dining establishment with an air of authority, making his rounds and taking an occasional nap underneath a patron’s chair. At Soepp, I indulged in their signature sampler plate, which came with two hearty soups, a crisp salad, and a warm roll, all bursting with flavor. It was perfect for warming up and filling the belly before exploring more with my two-wheeled best friend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/22e685f4-1d18-45ab-965b-21b4184e125f/IMG_3169.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - One afternoon, I wandered into the enchanting world of Sweets Antiques, where a whimsical array of fairy lights greeted me, casting a magical glow on all the treasures that lay within. The store was long and narrow, and I never knew what was going to be around the next corner. They had a lovely tea selection and their decadent “Mona Lisa” almond green tea captured my heart from the very beginning. Whether it was enjoying reading my Kindle in a quiet corner or engaging in lively conversation with the ever-bubbly barista, Anneliese, Sweets Antiques quickly became a cherished favorite haunt of mine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/2cbb93ba-b80a-4c4d-9cbb-1a7aef9264ba/IMG_3207.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/a1304526-61bc-4475-bcd2-922580f82005/IMG_4031.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” - On the edge of the park stood a miniature community library, no larger than a phone booth, beckoning with deck chairs by the canal. It was a scene straight out of a storybook. Witnessing neighborhood kids eagerly selecting books at this special place along the cycle path added an extra layer of charm to this idyllic setting. It became a regular reading spot for me as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714219410404-5UV7GGEW33RQJUP2EM1V/IMG_3292.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714219416545-3R6DVHPS0AMV4GB8NGLV/IMG_3160.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714219416631-MTWO9LBF1Z4P4W5AUZZT/IMG_3211.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714219416964-Z8NG39ICCYNVTBDHTZ81/IMG_3209.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/390e26b8-d384-47c2-9257-520d126d2dcd/IMG_3190.jpg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714140269502-922WJS8NN318Z6H1A3LA/IMG_3187.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714140270216-4YDPBSC5WYWVKQNR7ZLL/IMG_3182.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714140270218-U55HE9AWAXSS834AJE9B/IMG_3181.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1714140270585-0EKG1VZ6N4NVSMDWNW89/IMG_3185.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Holland with Laura” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/luxembourgwithlaura monthly 0.5 2024-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/74524f9a-4c93-497f-88b7-34dd8648046f/IMG_3374.jpg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433245621-ZW7PZM75NCWINL6H63PD/IMG_3403.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433246777-BSM7BI2V46613JFFW7YV/IMG_3364.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433245935-ZRF4BU2CO8QULEBOVDBR/IMG_3352.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433248035-C5RS1IT9O8452WPZIFJV/IMG_3350.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/84d2669d-db73-4628-bf07-a02c517bbbbb/IMG_3378.jpg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” - The Aldophe Bridge Another highlight was cycling across the Aldophe bridge where we took in the breathtaking city vistas and stunning landscapes. The city's hilly terrain was manageable thanks to the e-bikes' turbo mode. Marco's infectious energy was evident as he cheered us on with his trademark phrase, "It's Turbo Time!" making the uphill climbs surprisingly fun and easy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/7c5c3a01-577f-43c6-be9a-c8dab95a0918/IMG_3392.jpg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” - Spring in Luxembourg! The pink and white cherry blossom trees lined the streets. While the magnolia trees, with their large pink blossoms, have also captured my heart. These flowers, reminiscent of those fit for a princess, feel particularly fitting in Luxembourg, a town whose name translates to ‘little castle’ or ‘little fortress’. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433507181-J6EOTL047T3642SCTS9L/IMG_3445.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433502845-YH214PSKZ9MF89K8ETMO/IMG_3470.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433506115-DKEXMJGBY29K8RSNEIJK/IMG_3446.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713433502929-D39CDQ3ZWEYL81RXL5WV/IMG_3468.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713434372880-HWI21PQ9Y8KDUZAFGCLK/IMG_3402.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713434372885-ZOM038LGK0R8X55TZN9X/IMG_3348.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713434374866-HCXUO86H5R71R3F9KAS6/IMG_3438.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713434497117-SPUR5WVV7MSIT05ATCER/IMG_3476.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/016255e9-1f1f-44cf-aaa4-f0d39d7cf51d/Notre+dame+cathedral+exterior Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/0bc58491-b568-457c-881c-474e3dd642e2/IMG_3411.jpg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/5b8ac530-104b-4849-9e6c-4b6e44da0d70/IMG_3880.jpg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” - Upon entering the cathedral, I was struck by its subdued lighting. Unlike many modernized cathedrals, which often feature bright floodlights, the interior of Notre Dame exuded a tranquil darkness, illuminated softly by natural light filtering through its thick, dark stained glass windows. Even on a cloudy day, the ambience was serene rather than somber. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/4b1089b9-e383-4ce9-a4e2-d48e31863d80/IMG_3421.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” - Finding a seat near the front altar, I settled in for a moment of prayer journaling. As I reflected in the quietude of the nave, I was also inspired to pen a few reflective cards to loved ones back home in the States. Despite my initial reservations about the dim lighting, I found myself embracing the cozy atmosphere, which lent an unexpected warmth to the sacred space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1712304151222-NO7757P0U06IX04M0X4L/IMG_3377.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1712344093309-KCCC0MWBOA7TDM9XOYQY/IMG_3434.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1712344088534-721L5CQXFR5VYEPRB1EN/IMG_3368.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/1713434727095-G88YWZFLN7JY77SZPD5H/IMG_3379.jpeg Blog - “Exploring Luxembourg With Laura” https://www.laurameis.com/blog-2-1/slow-travel-with-laura monthly 0.5 2024-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/aee76c44-d19b-4212-86b7-734d9067ec1b/IMG_2408.jpg Blog - “Slow Travel with Laura” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/65727ca91badbb30263b374b/466fcecc-c9e6-4d4c-aebc-2ec8ca0a27da/IMG_4703.jpg Blog - “Slow Travel with Laura” This year, I’m embarking on a slow journey through Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. 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