I’ve spent my entire life living in Florida and had never ventured down to Key West. After my day-trip to the United States’ southernmost city, I kept asking myself why I waited so long to visit.
A Day in Key West
Exploring High Springs, Florida
If you’re looking to visit a place with small-town charm, High Springs is the perfect place to start. Located halfway between Lake City and Gainesville, High Springs is known for its beautiful, natural springs. However, they also have a downtown area that is full of places to explore.
Get Your Grub on at Grub Burger Bar
Grub Burger Bar in Gainesville is taking American classics and turning them on their heads. From milkshakes spiked with beer to burgers so spicy they’ll make you sweat, this fast-casual restaurant is dishing out some of the best food in the area.
Tasting the Best Wine in Florida
Is there any better way to kick off a weekend than with a good glass of wine? I don’t think so! On Saturday I made my way out to the Island Grove Wine Company Tasting House in Hawthorne, about 20 minutes south of Gainesville to try some of their delicious wines.
The Island Grove Wine Company is Florida-based and prides itself on using its fresh fruit to create exceptional wine. I first tried their wine at the Gateway City Craft Beer & Wine Festival in Lake City and immediately fell in love. So when I realized the tasting house was less than an hour away from where I live, I knew I had to check it out.
A Perfect Day at the Haile Village Center
This weekend I came to an epiphany about Gainesville, a city I’ve come to know well over the past few years: there’s no shortage of places to explore.
I’ve been working in Gainesville for a little over six months, and before then I spent nearly every weekend for the past two-and-a-half years making the drive there from Lake City to go the movies or to Target (Lake City doesn’t have one, I’m still appalled.)
On Saturday I decided to drive down and visit the Haile Village Center, a small community located near the larger Haile Plantation. Haile Village Center is known for its weekly farmers market and local restaurants, and I knew I had to check it out for myself.
Continue reading “A Perfect Day at the Haile Village Center”
Easy and Healthy 4th of July Recipes
The Fourth of July is just two days away! It’s a day to celebrate freedom with family, fireworks and of course, food. With all the burgers and hot dogs, starchy sides and beers and sweet teas that usually accompany holiday parties here in Florida, it’s hard to stay on track as far as healthy eating goes.
One sure-fire way to make sure there are healthy options for you at a July 4th cookout is to bring them yourself! Making some yummy, healthy alternatives to the heavier food choices will guarantee that you’re not feeling guilty after you eat, but the hostess will also be grateful for your contribution to the party.
Top 5 Things to do in Lake City, Florida
Chances are if you’ve driven over the Florida border, you’ve passed through Lake City, Florida. However, when I tell people that’s where I live, I usually get confused looks in return.
When I first moved here two and a half years ago (wow, I can’t believe it’s been that long!), I didn’t know much about my new home either. With a little exploring I discovered that Lake City is more than just a place you pass through; it’s a destination.
St. Augustine Beach Weekend
This weekend I spent a few days in beautiful St. Augustine Beach with my boyfriend and his family. We stayed in a condo at the Colony Reef Club that was just steps away from the ocean. The trip was full of sunshine, stunning views, delicious food and tons of memories. Here are some of the highlights:
How To Make The Perfect Cheese Board On A Budget
When it comes to hosting girls night, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful cheese board (or charcuterie board as the fancy people call it). However, all those fancy cheeses and meats can be expensive, and you could end up spending nearly $100 on them.
So when I decided to make my own cheese board to go with a night of wine drinking and gossiping with the girls, I knew I didn’t want to break the bank. After some research and some bargain hunting, I came up with the perfect formula for making a cheese board on a budget.
Continue reading “How To Make The Perfect Cheese Board On A Budget”
thehappyfloridian.com 