24 Hours in Madison

We hit the road early afternoon for Madison. We stayed at the Hotel Indigo, which is steps from the concert venue, and in an old paint factory which was very cool. The weather was pretty gross the day we got there, but we walked down State Street and grabbed a quick, early dinner at Taiwan Little Eats. I didn't remember buying VIP tickets the concert, but earlier this week started getting emails about entry. Figured we better take advantage of it. The only catch is, we needed to be in line by 6:30pm before doors opened. The concert was at 8:00pm. We made it, and were pleased by our purchase considering we didn't have to wait outside, and were front and center. Typically we'd roll in around 7:45pm or so -- and the place was packed by then. It worked out great, and we got to talk to some really nice people who were around us. The concert was amazing ... but I already mentioned that. After the concert, we grabbed some late night food and a drink at the hotel before calling it a day.

The next morning we hit State Street again to find some breakfast. The place we wanted to go to had a line around the corner, so we decided to keep going since it was not even 20 degrees out at that time. We wandered through the State Capitol and over to Marigold Kitchen. It also had a line, but was maybe 20 minutes, so doable. It was totally worth it. Breakfast was the best I've had in a long time. Afterwards, we went to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. I have no idea why, but this was our first time ever visiting it. The museum is free, and a perfect size. It was another highlight of the weekend. The Federico Uribe was so fun. We also discovered the best views of State Street. Honestly, the weekend was pretty perfect. Such a fun getaway. 

Jon Batiste

We are home from a most amazing 24 hours in Madison. The catalyst for the trip was the Jon Batiste concert. If you ever get the chance to see him play, don't hesitate. He is a true performer who shines an amazing light. It is an incredible experience. I like concerts, but Brian's usually the one who facilitates them. This concert was one I sought out. I must have been so excited that I even bought VIP tickets for early entry. I didn't even remember doing that, but it was a good move, especially since the weather that night was kind of miserable. Plus, it was general admissions, so we got in early and were able to be front and center for the show. I don't think I've ever been so close to a stage in my life. It was incredible. The energy of the room was so good. We were all dancing and singing. The performers on stage were infectious. Jon, of course -- but everyone. It was a night I will remember forever. 

Moments 02 24 :: Week 04

The NCC Men's soccer team volunteered by helping out with a Special Olympics basketball game. Cole was a referee. He said it was a blast. 

It's been gorgeous out, so Brian and I decided to take both dogs out hunting. I'm pretty useless. I don't carry the dog collar controls or a gun - basically I walk around. It's so fun watching the dogs do what they love so much.

Yes, Van has goggles. He's usually ok with them, but they didn't last long this time. 

The dogs in action. 

We were worried about Gretel. She's almost 10 years old, has a knee that's already been repaired, and on arthritis medication. Running around so much tends to take a toll on her, but she did awesome! We gave her a pm dose of her meds and an aspirin right after. She was a little stiff that night, but back to normal the next day. I'm so relieved it worked out. I thought for sure this would be her last adventure, and she loves it so much.

The sunset as seen from my walk the other day. Wow.

Moments 02 24 :: Week 03

Sunshine. Blooming branches. Disco ball sparkles. My girl. It all makes for a happy picture.

First time, but definitely not last, going to Kegel's Inn for a Friday night fish fry. 

Look at our fun friends we went with! 

We got to celebrate the sale of their house, and purchase of a new one. 

Needless to say, Brian and I are beyond excited. 

Book 2 of 2024.

Trader Joe's was exploding with flowers thanks to Valentine's week. Look at all of these beauties.

Tuesday night we went to see The Kills at The Rave. Wow, what a show. I'm still thinking about it. 

Me and my handsome dates. Brian had bought two tickets, then I got four free sent to me. It was a fun night. 

Such a love bug, this one. 

Moments 02 24 :: Week 02

There was this thing on Instagram where people were posting photos of them at 21. I didn't do that, but I was looking for some other photos and decided to find one. I have a remarkably small amount of photos from this year for some reason, but here you go. Same age as Hudson right now.

Brian and I took two massive walks with Van over the weekend. The lake was absolutely gorgeous. 

Me and my Van dog. He's such a great guy to go on adventures with.

We were invited to an early preview and art talk at Tory Folliard Gallery. Felt good to get out and about like that. 

Florida 24 :: The Last Day

Time to head back home. Even the dogs were sulking. It was a perfect day too. Isn't it supposed to be gross and raining so you aren't sad to leave? Had a noon flight, so didn't have to rush around too much in the morning. Walked to Publix, with the dogs, to pick up lunch for the flight home, the headed to the airport. My parents are such great hosts, and it was such a treat to escape the winter a bit. What a wonderful few days.

Florida 24 :: Day 4

The last full day. Finally lots of sunshine, but it ended up being windy and a little chilly. No complaints here. It was still very beautiful. We went for a walk with the dogs, then headed over to Bonita Beach. I haven't been there since before the big hurricane a couple years ago, and it was crazy to still see so much destruction left. I guess a few of the restaurants just opened up again a few days before we were there. Lots of houses along the beach getting rebuilt, that have been knocked down, or just empty yet. Still, the water was wild and amazing. I love it. After more time in the hot tub, it was time to drive to Naples for yet another yummy dinner, this time at Truluck's where we all appreciated the back lit menus.