We got up leisurely, gotta love Saturdays! Took the dogs for a walk and talked about where we would start our day….Why, the Whirling Dervish, of course!
I say of course because one…it’s Java Journey time! and two…their hours are limited. Thursday and Friday, 7a-1p, and Saturday 8a-12p. I think I told you last year, it’s not the main business for the owner, there is a real estate office in the front of the building and that’s the main source of income.
We got there, along with everyone else! There were four people in there when we opened the door, well, four customers, and it was crowded! There was one person working behind the counter/register and three people in the kitchen, don’t call the fire marshal! That’s how small this place is, just saying! They had a steady stream of people in all morning and their baked goods, almost out! And we were there about 830/9am!
PSM got their signature drink, The Jittery Gnome, don’t you just love it?! I opted for a hot tea, the loose tea smelled sooo good! I only get a hot tea from them, I didn’t care for the tea I had last year made with almond milk, just wasn’t for me. Just being in there can overwhelm some people, it’s small and jam packed with gnome knick-knacks, but I love it! Besides, I really enjoy their pastries. We got a pastry to go, our drinks were ready and we headed out, five more people came in as we were getting our drinks! crowded!
Oh! I forgot! When we got our passports stamped, they gave us two gnome stickers! Squeal! Guess where one of them is going?! Yup, we need to differentiate between my cup and PSMs and gnomes just aren’t his thing!
I held the door for an older woman and we started chatting about the Whirling Dervish and the Java Journey, and places to explore in Pennsylvania. A lot of the places she mentioned were already on my list, but I did get to add one or two more! Love talking to people!
After the Whirling Dervish we headed to the next destination, we try for at least two stamps per weekend day, why not?! We went to Caffeination Station, the place that is set up like a train station! They have a train that normally runs above the cafe, it wasn’t running today, not sure why, neither did anyone working there, go figure!
PSM got their Winterspice Latte, we asked what it was like, “Imagine if Christmas had a flavor, that would be it!” well, then, let’s! I had a chai latte made with eggnog, eggnog! Almost no one has it, especially after the end of the year! Don’t ask me how, but eggnog has never bothered me when I have it, I’ve been told that something about the ingredients mixed together counter the agent that isn’t good for people with a dairy intolerance and until it does, I’m having it! There is non-dairy eggnog, which is great, and I drink it every year! I have found it made with almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, no matter which, it’s yummy! And go figure, while I was searching for a link, I found a recipe for diary free eggnog, enjoy! Let’s just say… it was de-lic-ious!!! Happy me!
To go with our yummy drinks, we ordered breakfast sandwiches, and they did not disappoint. We sat at the counter, there really wasn’t much room at any of the tables, not complaining, most of the time we prefer to sit at the counter! While we were at the counter, we started chatting with the owner and staff, and apparently we looked like we needed a cookie! We were gifted a chocolate cookie with peanut butter chips. I loved the chips! It was a good cookies, I had to try a piece! The combo was great!
As we were talking, someone called to ask if they had any of they had any of the Java Journey travel mugs left over, nope. The person that answered the phone suggested the Whirling Dervish, we didn’t see any when we were there, but who knows. Then the owner told us everyone was sold out! What?! It was only a week and everyone is sold out, wow!
It kind of makes sense, this year, they chose travel mugs, which is definitely more desirable than the ceramic mugs last year. Don’t get me wrong, I love the mugs from last year, they are ceramic, but look like old school metal camping mugs. I was really lucky when I called the Timeless Cafe and they held two for me! Apparently there was a gift basket that came out right after Thanksgiving, those were gone faster than you could say Java!
The owner told us to call next year and see if they can hold a basket for us! Apparently the businesses order a certain number of baskets, and mugs, of course, and people will call and order them weeks ahead! That, of course, isn’t the spirit of the event, but hey, whatever works for people…But…hopefully next year, we’ll be two of the lucky ones who get a basket! And we are definitely not waiting until the weekend to get our mugs!
If we don’t get a basket, which comes with two mugs and passports, and gift cards, one of us will be at one of the participating coffee shops when the doors open on day one! This is fun! I think I told you, they added three new shops, one of them being a mobile coffee truck! It’s just a fun way to explore new things, chat with all the other people on line with us, some of them have their travel mugs, but we can spot each other at least with the passport! It’s like a secret club we joined!
The day started with no alarm, my favorite! It was about 10 degrees so it was feed the dogs and open the back door, no walk, sorry…less than 25 degrees, I’m hiding under the covers!
We got moving, slowly, but we got moving, headed to the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club clubhouse for breakfast, there weren’t a lot of people there, but it was most likely because of the weather, it was coming in! We were there for about an hour, had some good food, as BTK said, her favorite breakfast is one that someone else cooks!
After breakfast we headed to our second stop on the Lebanon Valley Java Journey. Oh no! I forgot to tell you the Java Journey has started and I picked up our cups yesterday! If you recall, from last year, the Lebanon Valley Java Journey is a fun event, or as is quoted on the front of the passport ‘An experience in every cup’! Isn’t that great! Basically, you purchase a cup for $10 and you get a passport with 15 coffee houses and cafes on it, last year it was 12, we’re up this year! Two of the coffee houses has two locations, and they added three new places and one of them is a mobile coffee shop, we’ll have to search to find it!
So… it started on Thursday, January 16th, who starts things on a Thursday, oh well…well, we didn’t have the time to get to one of the locations to get a cup on Thursday, so Friday, we met up at City Watch just before they closed and they were sold out! What?! Last year, so many places had extra, I think they ordered just enough. Turns out, they were sold out before they closed the doors on Thursday, ugh!
Saturday morning, I told you, I was in NYC at my dad’s, so PSM went to Timber Creek Coffee, they were sold out, what?! That’s two down! After we got off the phone, I looked up Timeless Cafe and called and they had plenty! And they agreed to put two aside for me, thank you! So…on the way to the IMRG lunch, we stopped at Mill 72 Bake Shop & Cafe and got our first two beverages and stamps! Weehoo!
Back to today! After breakfast, we went to Swatara Coffee in Annville, I really wanted to show BTK the Whirling Dervish Bakery, but they’re only open Thursday-Friday 7a-11a and Saturday 8a-12p, very convenient hours! We got our stamps and drinks, I told another group of people about the Java Journey, you should have heard me selling it yesterday! PSM said I should work for them! HA HA
After coffee, we went back to the house, the snow started while we were having breakfast, but it was really coming down now. Back at the house, we hung out, there was football to watch, I did some other stuff and when there was a break in the snow, I went out and did a pass over the driveway, to give us a starting point. BTK was planning on heading out tomorrow, so we wanted to be sure she could.
There were a few football games on, BTK and PSM were enjoying them, I was upstairs doing other things, then I came down and made a salad and pasta for dinner, we enjoyed the time together, more football, then PSM went upstairs and BTK and I settled in to watch some movies. We started one she hadn’t seen, followed by one neither of us had seen because it was a new release.
We started with Hidden Figures, the story of three female African-American mathematicians, or as they referred to them, computers, at NASA, amazing, powerful, emotional, fantastic, followed by The Six Triple Eight, the retelling of the story of the all-Black Women’s Army Corps, WACs, who were tasked with sorting and delivering years worth of backlogged mail. I will tell you all about it in another post, but wow, just wow. I am awed and amazed by what those women did for the army, the soldiers, the families, just wow.
When all was said and done, it was about 2 or 2:30am when we finished, off to bed for us! Guess who stayed up a little later because they couldn’t sleep?! No matter what, a good day was had by all!
Why do I have to wake up before 6am on a Saturday? I don’t, no alarm set, but apparently my body thinks I do. Really?!
I was up between 530 and 6a, why? Oh well…I lounged, did some Duolingo, gotta practice my French, every day. I was practicing French, took a break and went to Spanish, we were going to Mexico and I needed to brush up, when I went to Germany in 2022 to meet PSM for the weekend, guess what I practiced. I added Yiddish, I really want to add to my limited knowledge, and now I’m adding Italian, I’ll tell you about it sometime! Wow, do I digress!
So…I practiced some French, brushed my teeth, I thought that was a good thing to do, got dressed, all about the time PSM had let the dogs out. Do not tell me you didn’t see that coming! HA HA. We decided to go to a different park, well, different from the one near us that we usually take them to, today we went to the park in Annville, Quittie Creek Nature Park, we were there on January 20th, fresh snow covered the path and the trees, oh my! Just look at the pics! Today, there was very little snow on the ground and it was damp and a bit muddy, but the girls still had a good time and we walked on and off the beaten path. Most of the people at the park were fisher persons, we chatted with some of them, they were fishing for or hoping to fish for trout. I used to love trout, rainbow trout more than the others.
After the park, we wanted to get some breakfast, something to go, so…we went back to Swatara Coffee, we like that place. I was actually there yesterday, I think I forgot to tell you, sorry! Turns out, Ancester Coffeehouse & Creperie owns them, how cool is that! As we’re standing in line, we both said it felt funny being there without the passports or buying a specialty drink! That was ok, we got over it quickly!
It was a decaf coffee and a blueberry muffin for PSM and an egg and avocado bagel and chai latte for me. I enjoyed it, a little too much avocado spread, which is funny because it’s usually not enough! I realized I like avocado slices on a sandwich, but for breakfast, I prefer avocado toast. Go figure. While we waited for food, I did go over to the Whirling Dervish to get a t-shirt! I think I told you I wanted to go back and get one, score!
From Swatara, we drove to Hernley’s Indian Motorcycle Dealership, in Elizabethtown, PSM was picking up his bike, they installed Apple Car Play and it was ready to be picked up. It was only 38 out, but he got his one ride per month in! I’m not sure his extremeties warmed up yet! He took off and Ruby, Bee, and I headed home.
I started moving things into the kitchen, it’s finished, we need to start filling it up so we can feel complete. I grabbed post its and we identified what’s going where. After a while PSM was ready to go, dogs in the crate, and we headed out to Middle Creek because we were going to see the Snow Geese!!! Someone had told me about it and oh my word! This has to be seen to be believed! It is a lake with a huge white shape on it, but it’s not just a shape it’s the snow geese, o m g! As you’re walking from the parking lot, you can hear them, I don’t know if anyone could sleep to that, just think when you hear a few geese talking, imagine thousands! It was like nothing I’ve ever seen and I am so glad we went!
After a while, lots of pictures later, we went over to the museum, and there was a count as we walked in: Snow Geese 46,000 what?! Tundra Swans: 420, and Canada Geese: 620. Apparently these numbers can go up into the hundreds of thousands, apparently we were there on a slow day! SO worth it, just an amazing site to see. The museum was cool, very informational, not just about the snow geese, but nature and wildlife, those who protect it, hunt humanely, and bird watching, it was a lot of fun, definitely recommend it for an afternoon!
We were both freezing and hungry, so we found a place on my list and went to the Franklin House Tavern, it’s also an inn. We sat in the bar and I’m glad we did, the dining room was c-c-c-cold! We sat at a high top table, the bartender took our drink and food orders, I love when I can get a cup of hot tea at a bar or restaurant! I had a grilled caesar salad, I really need to try to make this at home! and PSM had a reuben. What doesn’t have a Wikipedia page!?
After a great lunch with greater company, we headed home. We let the dogs out, yes, I know you already have the ear worm! First thing…book a trip, hopefully the family will be joining us, can’t wait to tell you about it! Then, we got to work moving things into the cabinets and breakfront, I promise I’ll share pics! We got all the bar glassware in one place, score! Also, we have a lot less mugs than we thought, they all went with our everyday glassware and we still have a shelf left over! We made decisions!
Then it was off to the movies, what you thought we were done? You’re adorable! We headed to the theater to see Madam Web. Um…yeah. Good cast, interesting storyline, mediocre dialog, it’s not part of the MCU, Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it’s part of it’s own Marvel MCU, inluding Venom, Morbius, now Madam Web, and next up, Kraven the Hunter. Those movies aren’t really on my radar, I might watch Venom at some point, but Morbius, not for me. All good, not every movie is for everyone.
I really enjoy the idea of a female superhero, go girl power, but there were parts of this that were seriously lame. The fight/action sequence at the end, really enjoyed that, but it was a very loooonnnggg time coming! Maybe I have to watch it again to get more nuances, but I’m not sure, I’ll keep you posted.
Here’s another weird thing…the coming attractions, all of them were for horror movies, except for Despicable Me 4 and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and then…The First Omen? Twisters? Are there no original ideas left? But back to my original point, this was not a horror movie, why show horror movie trailers? This was bizarre.
Overall, a movie date with my husband was just what the doctor ordered! Back home, let the dogs out, I know, I know! Chill out for a bit, catch up with my friend about her dad, then it was time to talk to you. Oh, in the middle of telling you about my day, it was time to put the dogs up, not let them out, ha ha. I said “Ok, time for night-night” that means get up from where you are and walk to the crate, and I’ll be right behind you with a treat. I took the collars off both dogs, Ruby headed for the crate and Bee…well, she rolled over and snuggled in tighter. I said it again, I scratched her head, she stretched the beagle belly, I gave her some belly rubs and what did she do? Roll back over, snuggle deeper, and go back to sleep?! If it wasn’t so funny, I might be mad! I actually had to grab her by the collar to get her up and moving! I know I said I took their collars off, that was for the invisible fence, this was her every day collar. Are you kidding right now dog?! Nope! The sass! Oh my dogs!
Ok, was that enough!? Time to sign off and like I say to the dogs “Let’s go night-night!”
We went to all 12 locations and tried what they had to offer, well, sort of. PSM tried some of the specialty drinks, I had a chai latte at each place, and we both tried the food offerings, well, PSM didn’t at the last one, but for the most part, we did the Java Journey proud!
We were at the last place and PSM said, we could do this again! But…we would have to buy the mugs again and do we need 2 more of the same mug? Um…if we invite friends over, maybe, but no, we have more than enough mugs! I’ll show you sometime! Yea, I can definitely show you, we just finished a kitchen renovation, I’ll share pics and that might include or mugs. Or…I can take you on mug travel journey with us! So many possibilities! I recently sold my Starbucks mug collection, I can share that too. Ok, wow do I digress! Back to the journey!
Let’s talk about each coffee house, the specialty drink, what we had, what we thought, and would we go again! I know I told you most of this, but this is my opportunity to go back, relive and put it all in one place! I have to give credit where credit is due, for some of the locations, PSM helped me craft the wording for the atmosphere, suweet! Ready…set…drink!
We started at Swatara Coffee Company on 1.13.24. We were on our way to Lowe’s in Palmyra and we were both thirsty. We had had a very busy morning and just needed a refreshment, I saw the sign and it said coffee, sold! We walked in and there were the mugs! I had seen them somewhere a few months ago and then I got an text about it, and I thought, yes! Let’s do this! We asked what it was all about and they told us, why not! When I first told PSM about it, his response was ‘I only drink decaf’ well…maybe they’ll have decaf and maybe they’ll make the special drink with decaf…only one way to find out! Hello… can I get the specialty drink with decaf? Why, yes, yes you can! Sold!
We bought the mugs, PSM tried their specialty drink, Cinnamon Bun Latte w/Caramel Cold Foam, um… that actually sounded pretty good, but I knew there was coffee involved so…no thanks for me! I ordered a chai latte with mac milk, that’s macadamia nut milk for those not in the know…It was rich, creamy, and tasty! We shared a french toast muffin. It was all loverly, let’s just say a lot of sweetness happening here!
The atmosphere was nice. PSM walked in and immediately decompressed, we found it quaint and relaxing, his words, which i loved and couldn’t agree more! It was not a large or small place, it was open, had artwork on the walls, a few tables, and the staff was friendly, what more could you ask for?! Would we go back, you bet! If you’re up for it, and want a bit more to read, check out the post for that day!
The next day, 1.14.24, we started at Ancestor Coffeehouse & Creperie in Campbelltown, definitely want to check out the town. The specialty drink was an Italian Cookie Latte, way too sweet for PSM, but he was a good sport. I had a..wait for it…wait for it…a chai latte with oat milk, it was yummy! PSM had a bagel sandwich, me…savory crepe all the way and boy was it good! I couldn’t wait to try their other location to try their crepes, maybe a sweet one this time!
We thought it was interesting that it was attached to Snitz Creek Brewery [I accidentally spelled it wrong the last time, sorry Snitz Creek!] It was a great atmosphere, very farmhouse chic, wooden tables and chairs, barn doors, yeah, there was a vibe, please come in and hang out.
Next stop…Sydney Roasting Company in Lebanon. We walked in, not knowing what to expect, as always, but we liked it. It had an industrial feel, but it made you want to hang out and chill, so we did. Their signature drink [S/D] was Cinnamon Honey Freddo w/Cinnamon Cold Foam, what do you think PSM said? Decaf, please! I had a…I won’t keep you in suspense! A chai latte with almond milk. It was good, and we only got drinks, we were still full from breakfast. When we left, PSM teased…do you want something else to drink, maybe Starbucks, not..on…your…life! No more chai today, please! Would we go again? You bet! And PSM went for lunch one day, that should tell you something! Want to read more about it, and see the puppies? Check out the post for the day!
Monday morning came and we did something we don’t normally do, the demo was about to begin on our kitchen and we were in the mood, so we went to get coffee/breakfast, definitely not the norm on a Monday! And I just realized… it’s 1.15.24, MLK Day! That makes more sense than we were completely playing hookey! PSM had the day off and I decided to start a little later and enjoy this treat with my husband! We started at Baked Sweet Coffehouse and Bakery, this was not just a Monday, it was day 3 of our Java Journey! The address says Frystown Road in Myerstown, but it was actually in Frystown, odd.
This was the first place we went without the mugs and we definitely liked that! Didn’t have to remember or worry about anything happening to them! The street, well, you can tell they’re working on making it better. We walked in and the place was absolutely charming! Little touches everywhere, places to sit, relax, work, meet friends, which it seemed like it was the neighborhood place to go, we definitely liked that.
Their signature drink was Caramel Apple Crunch Latte…guess what PSM had…decaf coffee. I had a chai, of course. Neither of us enjoyed our drinks, PSM’s wasn’t great and mine was mostly water, the pastries were pretty good, blueberry and coffee cake muffins. Oh! I got one of their specialty frosted sugar cookies, and oh my, I understand why it’s called Baked Sweet!!! Let’s just say, we’re glad we tried it, but for us we wouldn’t recommend it, not saying someone else wouldn’t love it, but it wasn’t a place we’d go back. We are definitely glad we tried it, for the warmth, but when the atmosphere is better than the food and drink, not a ringing endoresement for us.
Next, I really wanted something to drink, and maybe eat, PSM was feeling the same, we headed to City Watch Coffee, we had been there before, it wasn’t our first go-to for coffee, tea, and food, but it’s nice that it’s close to home. I got a Hot City Vik Chai with coconut milk, love a chai with coconut milk. Their signature drink was rum cake cappuccino, PSM decided to go for a hot chocolate, that guy always keeping me on my toes. We had egg sandwiches which were pretty good.
The staff is nice, the atmosphere has an industrial/warehouse feel, different than the Sydney Roasting Co industrial feel. Even though we sat to eat and drink, I wouldn’t say it’s a charming place that I would make a destination of, but I can definitely see going to get food and drink to go, it’s definitely good in a pinch. We’ve been there three times, that has to tell you something. And now…enjoy an insight into our full day!
It’s Saturday again, that seems to happen every week, doesn’t it?! 1.20.24 and we are at Whirling Dervish Bakery & Coffefe Shop. Did I mention, go, just go! I know, I absolutely loved this place! Their signature drink was a Cozy Cinnamon Mocha, decaf it is! Chai latte for me. The pastries were good, better than the drinks, when we go back, and we will go back, I will get a straight up cup of tea, no milks! I say we will go back because it was such a charming and eclectic place! It was tiny, no place to sit, there was so much to look at and gnomes for days! I want to go back and get one of their shirts, it was just such a great place to be, as I said in my original post…be a lookie-loo! Just remember…their hours are not conducive to a leisurely visit…what I mean is Thursday and Friday 7a-11a and Saturday 8a-12p. Go, go now! ha ha
After the Whirling dervish, we took the dogs to a new park, just a few minutes from the coffee shop, so much fun! Can’t wait to go back! Then, after a few things happening, we went to Mill 72 Bake Shop & Cafe. Another winner! Their signature drink…Loaded Hot Chocolate! I SO wanted PSM to order it, but he may have gone into sugar shock! I wish I had taken a picture! It was hot chocloate with whipped creme, of course! Chocolate fudge on the rim of the glass and a few mini donuts on a stick. Oh my word! I was happy with a chai latte and we had egg sandwiches on waffles, very clever! We both agreed, the waffles could have been crisper and if there was syrup in them, even better! That’s not to say we did not enjoy them, oh we did. And the orange slice with it, very nice!
It was a pretty good sized space, enough to have a two tables of merchandise for sale in the front and shelves on the side with more items for sale, including proprietary items, just like almost all the coffee shops, more power to ’em! If any of the places had stickers or a magnet, you know I got one! Oh, I have to share my magnet collection! I can’t wait for that one!
It was welcoming and kitchy, they had places you could relax, take photos, photos to post online, a fire place, a place where you know people like to congregate and you can see yourself hanging out. Will we come back? Oh yeah! There are actually a few locations, I’m looking forward to seeing how they compare!
The weekend went to fast, but…luckily, we’re back at Saturday and time for two more coffee shops! It’s 1.27.24 and we are on our way to the Tattoo Expo, but first…Timber Creek Coffee! They are located in Myerstown, not far from the house and on the way to Philly, sort of! Their signature drink is a Winter Gingerbread Wonder. It was very sweet and had a gingerbread cookie on it. Oh my word! Did you know there was a kids song called The Gingerbread Cookie Dance? Well…now you do! You’re welcome! I have the ear worm and now I’m sharing it with you! muwahaha
I learned that my husband loves gingerbread cookies! I had no idea! I had a chai latte, of course! and we ordered a few pastries, cinnamon roll, a blueberry muffin, a coffee cake muffin, and a gingerbread cookie for later. Everything was delicious!
It is a charming, welcoming, and kind, and that is just the space, the people who work there are just as chaming, welcoming, and nice. Will we go back? You bet we will! I’m looking forward to trying some of their other baked goods. Just be aware they are not open on Sunday or Monday. Check out our adventure for the day!
Ok, it’s Sunday, 1.28.24, where to?! Let’s start at Timeless Cafe in downtown Lebanon. The signature drink is a Chocolate Almond Dalgona, let’s just say…two sips and it was let me get you a coffee from their coffee station! I had a chai latte with oat milk, it was good. I had a breakfast wrap and PSM had a bagel with cream cheese, he was going to have an egg sandwich/wrap, but went for the bagel, then I think he was a little jealous of my sandwich, not to worry, where are we going next?!
Timeless Cafe really is timeless, and not just because there are clocks everywhere, ha ha. It’s charming, the atmosphere is welcoming, that’s also where the timeless comes in, and a very nice staff, what more could you want for a carefree brunch with friends or a coffee date with your husband!
After Timeless Cafe we headed out to the other Swatara Coffee Company in Jonestown. This location was smaller than the one in Annville, but equally as nice. It was definitely more cozy, it was fun, in the back there was a crochet circle going, you know that just screams neighborhood and welcoming! The signature drink was a Chocolate Chip Cookie Latte, PSM had decaf, ha ha, and I had a chai latte with mac milk, yum!
The staff was nice, the other patrons were nice, and even though we had eaten at Timeless Cafe, there was a chocolate chip cookie block that I could not resist! And for someone who doesn’t like chocolate, this was sooo worth it! Another neighborhood place, people hanging out, doing work, sharing some time together, what more could you want? Would we come back? You bet your bippie! And for pics, check out the full post. Wait, we only have two stops left!
Another week done, and now we are down two coffee shops! How is that possible?! We are so close! What will we do with our weekends now?! We started on Saturday, 2.17.24, at The Caffeination Station in Palmyra, their signature drink is a Mocha Valencia, PSM was game, and I got…I know, shocker! A chai latte with oat milk, it was pretty good. We each got an egg sandwich, food and drink were good.
You got a train feel right from the start, there was a train on the lawn, imagine that! Inside, you definitely got a train station feel, trains on the walls, trains running the edge of the shop, trains, trains, and more trains! You definitely knew you were in a local place, very family atmosphere and run by a family. There was an open feel, not just in the layout, but open and welcoming, and good bad dad jokes, what more could you want?! Another visit, I’m sure!
Last stop, what?! Ancester Coffeehouse & Creperie in Lebanon. It was a bigger space, their signature drink is a Red Velvet Latte w/Vanilla Cold Foam, you can guess what PSM had. One sweet drink per day is good for him! I had a macron, I wanted something sweet, but we were not hungry in the least! The macron was better than my chai latte with mac milk. I liked it so much at the other location, I was excited to try it here, but it was not to be. They made me a new one and it just wasn’t right, it happens, could have been me that day. I’m glad we were at the other one first, if this was the first one, I don’t know if we’d venture again.
This location was bigger than the other, but equally as welcoming, different types of walls and coffee sacs under the glass on each table. Despite being in a strip mall, I could see going there for brunch or lunch, meeting friends, working, or just hanging out. One thing it did was open us up to some of the other businesses in the plaza, especially two pubs and breweries we’re going to have to check out. Will we go back to this Ancestor Coffeehouse & Creperie, I would say yes, I want another crepe and it’s close to the house. Which one would I prefer, the other one was a little more charming/kitch, but this is a definite yes! Check out our day.
Wow, we did it! We completed our Lebanon Valley Java Journey! What will we do with our weekends, and occasional weekdays now? PSM said we could do it all over again, I already told you that, I had to double check that! We could still do it, we just won’t get stamps in the passport. Speaking of which, aren’t the stamps cute!? The organizers gave each location their own stamps, so cool! We got our last stamp, wrote our contact info on the back and turned them in. Fingers crossed for us, maybe we’ll win!
Even if we don’t, this was a win-win! Being new to the area, it opened us up to a new experience and trying new things together. We met people along the way, talked about the journey, got other people to try it, and we went to new places we might not have gone otherwise, and now, we have some new hangouts.
I can’t wait to see what the next java-journey type experience we have! We actually had a small one on the Lebanon Valley Libations Trail. That would be breweries, just in case you weren’t sure! I’m on the lookout for our next journey/trail, if you know of one, don’t keep it a secret, might have to make one of our own!
Thanks for going on this journey with us, it was like you were right there with us! Love that!
I think I told you I was thinking about skiing today, but Mother Nature had other ideas, gee thanks…
PSM had to go into work to meet some folks, so I figured since we would be gone/occupied for a few hours, I’d go and hit the slopes for a few, and then we’d meet somewhere new, you know, somewhere off my list!
Since we have four places left to go on our Lebanon Valley Java Journey, let’s get up early, take the dogs for a walk, go to a new place for brunch or at least a drink and a pastry, then he would go off to work, I’d go skiing, etc, but as you know, that didn’t happen! I got up, Bee decided when we got to the end of the driveway, she would not be joining us on our jaunt this morning, grrr…fine…back to the house, collar back on, PSM was still home getting some things prepped to go into work and Ruby and I went for a rainy walk.
We came back and then by the time we got out of the house, we didn’t have enough time to grab anything, so he went off, I went back into the house to take care of things, feed the dogs, laundry, talking to you, you know, stuff. When we was done, he called and then came to pick me up and we went into downtown Lebanon for our first stop at Timeless Cafe. The last time we went, or the first time we tried, it was not a successful venture. The restaurant was crowded and we waited, and waited, and waited for someone to at least look at us and say hello. At that point we were hungry and not interested in waiting so we went somewhere else.
This time, I am happy to say, was a much different and better experience. If it wasn’t on the Java Journey passport, because of that last experience, we might not have gone back. I’m glad we took another chance! Inside, it’s charming, quaint, welcoming, and timeless. Could be all the clocks on the walls set to different times, and the clock hands aren’t moving, so definitely timeless! I just remembered that the first time we went, that was the first time I saw the mugs for the Java Journey and I was intrigued!
I ordered a chai latte, of course, with oat milk, it was pretty good. PSM ordered their signature drink, it definitely wasn’t for him, I think I told you, he’s not a fancy, sweet, or inventive coffee kind of guy, and that’s ok. Someone else probably had it and loved it. I went to the counter and got him a straight up decaf with a little cream, the guy behind the counter didn’t charge me, even when I said I would pay. Score one more for the cafe. PSM was going to have one of their breakfast sandwiches, then a bagel with cream cheese called to him and he answered! They have breakfast sandwiches or wraps that start at 7 o’clock, 8 o’clock, through 12 o’clock, which is what I had: egg, provolone, spinache, and tomato, skip the mushrooms, all on spinache tortilla wrap! I took a chance with the provolone, it wasn’t the best idea, but it was tasty!
We sat, ate, enjoyed, and chatted with the women at the table next to us, they were having baked french toast made with croissants, oh my! We may have to go back! They were also on the Java Journey, we chatted about that, then we asked for some recommendations for things to do, see, eat. Anything that wasn’t on my list already went on it! Thank you ladies!
We tiptoed through the raindrops, got in the jeep and headed on the road, where to? Well, we need to go grocery shopping, soon, not right now. We motored down the road to Jonestown to go to Swatara Coffee, [not sure what happened but their site is under construction, the link is to Google Maps to find them.] another stamp on the passport. I wasn’t expecting to go to another one so soon, but hey, you only live once! Wait, isn’t that what YOLO means? Yes, I am that goofy geek! Thank you very much!
We were wondering why the main drag looked so familiar, did we look at a house out this way? Not sure, but we’ve been through here! We went to Swatara Coffee, it’s a little smaller than the other location in Annville, but it was equally charming. One thing I noticed is that a bunch of these coffee houses sell not only their wares, like t-shirts and hats, some have vendor areas set up, others, like Swatar Coffee, have a specific artist’s earrings for sale, hmm…
The other thing, I’m not used to drinking more than one chai latte in a day! I usually have one in the morning, then it would be a ‘regular’ cup of tea or two, maybe more, but just a teabag, water, and sugar. The days we go to multiple new coffee houses, I’m getting chai, I know, I could get something else, but I want to try their chai latte, so sue me! ha ha
PSM had ordered an egg sandwich, I was not that hungry, but I was thinking a pastry would be nice, and I got their chocolate chip cookie thing! I don’t like chocolate, which you may or may not know, but…I love the cookie part of the thing! It was a thick cookie, some sort of frosting, then cookie chunks on top, let’s just say… O M G! YAASSS! PSM got their french toast muffin, tasty! I enjoyed it at the other location, and now here!
We got there at just the right moment, there was one other person in there, so we got to chat with the girl working behind the counter for a while, we spoke about the Java Journey and she works at the other location and really wants to go to the Whirling Dervish and hasn’t, I showed her pics and really encouraged her to go, but their hours…not easy to get there!
Just as we got to our seats, the place started to fill up! It’s not a very big space, maybe 2 2-person tables, then 2 6-person tables that could be broken up, if needed. In the middle is the coffee bar area, in the back was a room with a few tables. Today the back room had a crochet circle happening, some people were new to it, others experienced, a group of folks crafting and helping each other out. What could be more loverly?!
We got our drinks, I got my chai with mac milk, or macadamia nut milk, I remembered they had it from the other location. Another yum drink! We will definitely be going back, not sure to which location, maybe both, why not?!
After enjoying, laughing, talking with other patrons, we headed out, back towards the house and as we were driving, I suddently realized why it was so familiar! We were right near where the dogs were boarded when we took our 3-week motorcycle trip over the summer! I know I haven’t told you about it yet, I will, it was AH MAZING! I love when things click!
We went to Grocery Outlet, they have a decent selection of vegan stuff for me, score! We were there to pick up salad fixings for the week and see if they had any other goodies! Their prices are really good! The thing about Grocery Outlets, they have the staples, but they don’t always have the same things each time you’re there, and when I talk about goodies, they had Christmas mugs left over with chocolate in them for $1 each! I bought what they had and next year, someone[s] is getting one of these mugs personalized! With fresh chocolate, of course! ha ha
After the grocery store, we were trying to figure out what to do next. It was a chilly, rainy, blech day, we didn’t want to be outside, but we weren’t quite ready to go home. In the same parking lot is Michael’s, the craft superstore, which can sometimes be like kryptonite! I realized I haven’t been in almost 2 months, so PSM pulled into a spot and I went in, just to look, ha ha! I ended up finding some Cricut supplies, normally $18-$20 for $5! You cannot beat it, so I bought a bunch! And I will be using it, some great colors and patterns! Oh, the Cricut, that’s a whole other post!
After I came out, we decided we still weren’t ready to go home and he wasn’t that jazzed about the first playoff game, so we went to one of our favorite activities…mani-pedi! And what that is, a manicure, for the hands, and a pedicure, for the feet! We like Lebanon Nail & Spa of PA, they’re very nice and they do a good job. And PSM’s favorite part…the massage chair, nap time!
Oh, the joy! The bubbles, the jets, the massage chair, the foot massage, oh my! The thing I love about going is to get my cuticles trimmed, my fingernails shaped, and looking cleaner. I’ll be honest, the polish never lasts more than a few days at the most, but my hands look so good! The pedicure, same procedure, luckily, the polish lasts a lot longer on the toes! Just makes me feel purdy!
They finished my nails, I was dry, it’s time to go home! We loaded up, headed home, let the pups out, played with them, and PSM settled in to watch some ‘fusball’. I did something else! I don’t remember! Then about 615p, he headed to the 7th Street Bar & Grill, a neighborhood place we like to go, good staff, good food, and a good local hang out, some of PSM’s co-workers go there and we seem to run into them every once in a while. He was headed there for the game and I hung out with the pups, finished my pho from last night, and worked on the IMRG Chapter 2024 Calendar, I think I told you…I am now the Calendar Queen!
Is that enough for one day? I think I’ve had enough, it’s been fabulous talking with you, but I need to decompress and settle in. Have a fabulous night! See ya’ tomorrow!
Moss does not grow on a rolling stone! And who doesn’t love the Rolling Stones?! ha ha!
We started the morning with a dog walk, well, first it was a snuggle with the dogs, I let them sleep with me last night, I couldn’t resist, they’re so cute and cuddly! After we got out of bed, it was a walk around the blocks, Bee decided she wasn’t going, so I left her at the house and Ruby and I walked around the blocks. It’s a little easier with just one, doesn’t happen very often. And we think that Ruby would walk for days if we let her!
After taking a walk, PSM rode his bike to Hernley’s Indian Motorcycle dealership, PSM needed to get something done to his 2020 Indian Challenger, it was brrrr cold, but he is determined to ride at least once per month and he did it in December, and now January, he’s set for the month! The pups and I jumped in the VW Beetle Convertible, dropped the top, yes we did! I had on a scarf, heavy sweatshirt, among other layers, gloves, and we were off to meet and pick up PSM at the dealership. The dogs, well, Ruby la la la loves going for rides in the car, Bee doesn’t want to be left behind! ha ha
After picking him up, we headed home, dropped the girls off and got them settled in their crate, music on, and off we go! First stop…Timber Creek Coffee, ready for another stamp on our Lebanon Valley Java Journey passports! PSM tried the signature drink, it was very sweet and had a gingerbread cookie on top! He enjoyed it, he loves gingerbread! I wish I could remember what the signature drink was. I’ll do a wrap up post on the entire journey and let you know what they all were! I had a chai with oat milk, it was very good, a place I would go back for a hot beverage! We got a cinnamon roll, a blueberry muffin, a coffee cake muffin, and a gingerbread cookie, the pastries were terrific! Win-win!
The atmosphere was clean, and by that I mean, not cluttered, but welcoming, and warm, not just because of the fireplace. It wasn’t too crowded, we got there just after and before a rush, perfect timing! They also had one of those train station signs that changes messages, it was really cool!
Now, let’s hit the road, we have a 2 hour drive into Philadelphia, or as I used to call it as a kid, and still do ‘Phildadelphia’, no idea why, but it stuck! Bertha, my GPS, did fine until we got to Philly, then she took us off the highway through some very sketchy neighborhood. I told PSM I just want to take him to all the best places! ha ha. When we got out of that area, it got better! We found the Philadelphia Convention Center, then a parking deck about a block away and walked to get in line with everyone else for the Villain Arts Philadelphia Tattoo Festival. The last tattoo expo we went to was in Hawai’i, it was time.
The place was packed! I mean packed! We walked up and down almost every aisle looking, marveling, wondering, considering. Each artist had a sign that was either ‘I have availability today’ or ‘I am booked today’. Some people make appointments in advance with a particular artist they like while they are in town for the expo. We were both looking to see if someone struck our fancy to get some new ink.
PSM has a particular idea, but needs some help making the vision come to life. I know what I want, I just need to find someone to do it. The only artist who’s work ‘spoke to me’ wasn’t doing any original work. All of the artists had samples of their work and some had only what they were going to do this weekend, that’s fair, disappointing if you want something special, but that’s why you make an appointment. PSM found an artist he was drawn to, he was definitely a Pacific Islander. He had availability and idea for PSM, come back about 5p. Sounds good.
We walked around a bit more, by now, it was about 330p and we were running out of steam! We had both been up pretty early and been walking around for a few hours, so…we went outside and went in search of food and found Pho Street on Arch Street. I can’t give you the website, when I click it, it goes to a gaming site, sorry! They had vegan pho for me, wa to the hoo! We ordered big bowls of pho, it so hit the spot! And we did not finish either bowl, can’t wait to have my leftovers tomorrow!
After eating, we headed back to the expo, PSM was going to talk to the artist and if they gelled on the idea, I would drive home to take care of the pups, then come back for him. Unfortunately for PSM they didn’t gel, the design was fabulous, but it was WAAAYYY bigger than he was looking for! We were both bummed, PSM because he has really wanted to finish this one tattoo, me because I was going to pay for it! But not too bummbed because we were both a little tired and thinking about driving 2 hours home and then 2 hours back to Philly, then 2 hours back home…well, you can imagine!
When I told the artist his work was fabulous, but not what PSM wanted he wished me a safe drive home and mahalo nui loa, thank you very much in Hawaiian. The literal translation of mahalo is “in breath” or “life essence.” It means to live in constant gratitude!!! LOVED it! I said a’ole pilikia and wished him well at the expo!
So…home we went. Dogs were happy we were home, there was joy and merriment, wagging tails, lots of kisses, was it for us or for the fact we were home and they were hungry? Who cares, they were happy and we were happy to be home!
Tomorrow, what’s in store? I was thinking about going skiing, but guess what Mother Nature thought, nope, I’m going to ‘rain on your parade’ literally! So… what to do? You know us, we’ll find something to do!
Whew! We don’t know how to rest on our laurels around here!
And on a Saturday! First…woke up after the sun, what?! It was just about 730a when we woke up, that was loverly! After a few minutes, PSM said, let’s get the dogs, sounds good to me! I said prepare yourself! I went down, grabbed the pups and raced them back upstairs! When I say ‘who wants to snuggle?’ they automatically head to the living room because they think they’re going to snuggle with me on one of their beds. So cute!
Up to the bedroom where Ruby jumped right up and Bee, you know, the Beagle, short legs and all, needed a wee bit of help! They were both up there, I got in bed, and it was like I wasn’t even there! ha ha. They la la la love being with PSM! I had to pull Ruby away to snuggle, then she went back and I grabbed Bee. A little whining and finally some singing! That dog la la la loves to sing! You can see it on her face!
After about 30 minutes, we realized we had a few things to do this morning! Get up and dressed, get the dogs ready, and we were off! We have to get another stamp in our Java Journey passports! We went to the Whirling Dervish Bakery & Coffee Shop in Annville, a charming little college town, we were there last week at Swatara Coffee Company, they are across the street from each other. If you ever get the chance to go, please do! But…beware the hours are not great! Thursday and Friday 7am-11am, and Saturday 8am-12 noon and that is it! We found out that the owner owns a real estate business, that’s on the main drag and the bakery/coffee shop is at the side door, which is also the back of the real estate office.
It’s sweet and charming, and delightlfully gnomish! It is covered with gnomes, gnomes, and more gnomes, and reindeer. They have a collection of gnomes that might put gnomes or a yard to shame! They are from all over the world and most are not for sale, just for looking, but some are for sale. Then there’s the baked goods! And the drinks. PSM had coffee and I had a chai tea, it wasn’t my favorite, I got it with almond milk. If we go back, and I want to, I’m going to get a cup of tea just made with water, and some sugar, I’m ok with that!
We got a few pastries to go and they were yummy! It was just so charming and heart warming walking around looking at everything. When I say walking around, I really mean standing in one spot and turning around and around, that’s really all the space they have. Totally recommend this place, even if you’re just a lookie-loo!
We left with our baked goods and drinks and headed to a nearby park the folks working there recommended. And oh my was it soooo worth it! Quittie Park Nature Park is stunning and charming and covered with a whole lotta snow today! The dogs absolutely la la la loved it! We dropped their leashes for a few minutes, there was no one else in the park, we wouldn’t do that if there were any other people or dogs. They so enjoyed that, watching both of them run like the wind! And now…I have Ride Like the Wind by Christopher Cross in my head! You’re welcome for the ear worm!
We don’t know how large the park is or how long the paths go, but you can rest assured, we will be going back! It’s only about 15 minutes from us, so I forsee a lot more trips there! Definitely on the weekends, maybe some evenings when the sun stays in the sky longer. Add this to the list!
Then it was time to go to the monthly Indian Motorcycle Riders Group meeting at Hernley’s Polaris-Indian Motorcycle. We joined the group when we moved to Pennsylvania. We join wherever we are, so we are now honorary members of our chapters in Hawai’i and St Louis! It’s a great feeling to know that you have people to connect with when you’re there! They were going over new business and somehow I volunteered to take over the calendar duties for the group, and I dubbed myself CQ…Calendar Queen! I’ll take it! I’m now responsible for putting together the calendar of rides for our group! I’m ready!
After the meeting, there was the monthly picture and we were off! We have a drywall finisher coming to the house at noon and we had just enough time to get there! We had just enough time to stop for gas, maybe get another cup of coffee/tea/passport stamp before we headed home. We stopped at Mill 72 Bake Shop & Cafe, so called because: Our name, Mill 72, is made up of two components. The “Mill” comes directly from our last name, Miller, and our family’s history of owning and working in a family-owned corn meal mill. The “72” references our Bake Shop & Cafe being located along Manheim’s Route 72. How cool is that?! I’ve oftne wondered why it was called that!
Well, it was lunch time, we got coffee and a chai latte, and two egg sandwiches made on waffles. Everything was pretty good! We both felt like the sandwiches, because they were made with waffles needed some syrup, but other than that, enjoyable. The atmosphere was charming, quite a few tables and some sofas and seats towards the back. It was open and inviting. I can definitely see going back!
After lunch we headed into downtown Lebanon to the Lebanon Fine ArtFine Art Gallery – Lebanon Picture Frame to finalize the frames we wanted for the artwok that was damaged in the move. The artwork saga is a whole ‘nother post! But Melody and Eric, the owners, have been great to work. They helped us with the estimates to get the pieces fixed and pick out new frames and mats, very excited to see them when they’re ready!
We grabbed the broken frames, I have plans for them, of course! and headed back to the house. The drywall finisher was there to do his thing and boy did he do his thing! He is really good! He taped up the seams, covered any nails and screws, and just made things seamless. He’ll be back on Monday to do whatever else he needs to.
While he was working, we went outside to do a little shoveling, it had snowed a little more yesterday and it’s windy so the snow is blowing onto the driveway. When I found the big patch of ice and went down on my knee and my wrist, I said…I’m good and I’m going inside! PSM soon followed.
We took a break, watched something on tv, then I went into the art studio to start to build my new fireplace! I’ll tell you all about that in another post, but it’s awesome! PSM ended up helping me and I’m so glad he did! There were parts that said it’s a 2-person step and they were right! bless him! We got the cabinet together and then put the fireplace in it and it’s AWE-SOME!!! You can turn the flames on with or without heat! I cannot wait to have everything in place for the studio! Right now it’s housing stuff from the kitchen, things that didn’t fit on the shelves in the other room, all good, working around it!
Then it was time to chill and eventually grub! We had leftover Chinese food from North China, our new favorite go-to for Chinese food. I seem to only get their garlic broccoli and I la la la love it! I’ll share more on this place some other time! We ate, watched some stuff, then PSM put on football and I headed into the art studio to put on my new fireplace and a movie to…start to put together a desk I got at Harbor Freight. I really love this thing and I got it half built, some of it is a 2-person job, so far so good, but I kind of ran out of steam, the thing is hea-vy! and I wanted to talk to you guys, so…I’ll go back to it tomorrow!
I think that’s about it for a Saturday, was that enough? Did I mention that most of what we did before we got home was all before 1pm?! I think that was quite the way to start the day! Are you tired? I am! What does tomorrow hold? I am contemplating going skiing! If I do, you know I’ll tell you all about it!
Today is MLK day and for many, that means a day off, wahoo!
MLK Day, or Martin Luther King Day, is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the third Monday of January each year. Dr King was born on January 15th, and was chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law and civil society. The movement lead to several groundbreaking legislative reforms in the United States.
Since it’s a federal holiday, many companies are closed, it was interesting, in Hawai’i, it was not observed as a holiday by all companies, but King Kamehameha I Day was an observed holiday and many companies were closed. A regional thing I guess. And, as companies were closed, some use it as an opportunity for volunteerism, giving back to communities, I’d say that’s a positive thing, wouldn’t you?
I think it’s great people have the day off to do as they choose, be it a long, 3-day weekend, a lazy day, a day to get things done, for contractors, it’s a day without pay and those aren’t as much fun, ha ha. Sometimes I am happy to take the day, but this week, we were given the opportunity to work and I took it! I am prepping for a new class, so it was the perfect time to get work done without the normal work day interruptions or meetings to take away focus. Now, don’t get me wrong, I didn’t get up at 6am like I normally do, I took my time waking up, we took the dogs to the park, and then we took the opportunity to go to another coffee shop on the Lebanon Valley Java Journey! Bonus!
We went to Baked Sweet Coffeehouse & Bakery, armed with only the passports, didn’t have to take the mugs! One less thing to remember! Weehoo! The street…you can tell they are trying to renovate and bring it up, there were several new houses and you could tell several others had been or were in the process of being renovated. The bakery itself was charming, from the outside to when you steppined inside. Open, airy, light feeling, edison bulb string lights, [do you know how hard it is to find a description and not an advertisement for edison bulb string lights?!], tables and chairs, small sofas, just the perfect atmosphere for a no-pressure, laid back coffee shop.
There was a Maker’s Market to one side with items from different vendors, all small businesses, they had their own line of merchandise down the hall, and in the back, rooms for events or overflow from the front of house. When we got there, no line, when we left, almost out the door! We’re not sure if it was the fact that businesses and schools were closed or it was the local coffee shop, could have been a combination.
They had a large coffee and tea selection, and a lovely pastry selection. We ordered a chai with almond milk for me and a decaf coffee for PSM, a blueberry muffin, a coffee cake muffin, and a beautiful snowflake sugar cookie for later. I wandered around while PSM found us a seat in front of a great antique stove, not on, but definitely a conversation piece! Our order was up, they don’t take personal cups, unfortunately, we had to pour our drinks into our cups, and the drink and muffin were served on a metal tray with a napkin that looked like a linen kitchen towel. All-in-all, a great experience so far!
The baked good were great, PSM’s coffee was pretty good, I can’t say I enjoyed my chai at all, but the cookie, I had later in the day…y u m, fancy sugar cookie goodness. We agreed, we really liked the atmosphere, but it wasn’t worth us making a special trip there on another occassion, that’s not to say, if we were in the area, we wouldn’t stop by for a baked good.
I ended up not drinking my chai and since we were headed back home, we thought, why not…let’s check another coffee shop off the list, or passport, as it were! We went to City Watch Coffee. We had both been there before, the hours weren’t always conducive to when we were out and about. The atmosphere is cool, kind of futuristic, whereas Baked Sweet had a more charming atmosphere. Both places have very nice and accomodating staff.
Speaking of staff, one of the things PSM noticed and mentioned, which admittedly, I hadn’t, was that the staff at all of the coffee shops we had been to so far were completely staffed by women. Once he pointed it out, I thought, go girl power! I liked it!
I ordered their chai, which was called, I believe the Vic Chai, because it was named after a cousin of the owner’s husband, who’s name was Vic Chai, how cool is that and what are the odds?! PSM had a hot chocolate and we ordered egg sandwiches. The sandwiches were good, PSM’s hot chocolate was good, I didn’t enjoy the chai, not sure why, it had a strange aftertaste to me. It was the third time I had it there, so it turns out the chai is not for me, but that’s not to say I wouldn’t go back to try a different drink. I am drawn to chai lattes and I try them wherever I go and some are a hit, and some not. The nice thing about this place, it’s not that far from home, so if I do find a drink I like better, win-win!
After our 2nd Java Journey stamp for the day and fifth for the weekend, we went back to the house. When we got there, one of the guys from the construction company were there to talk to us about how the day was going to go, I went upstairs to start working, and PSM stayed down to hammer out any last minute details. There were a few things I had to come downstairs to take care of, but for the most part, I was able to get a lot of work done.
PSM went out to do some stuff while I stayed behind to work, hang with the dogs and answer questions. About 230p he picked me up, we went out to get some lunch, I was very much in the mood for soup, good ramen to be exact, but no ramen in the area, so we went to Kugo Japanese restaurant for udon, because they assured me they had vegetable udon, I was ready! We had been there for sushi a while ago and liked it, this time, the udon was just what I needed. Hot, flavorful, and full of veggies and noodles, what more could you want!
Back to the house, check out the demo progress, get some more work done, take the dogs for a walk, work, PSM went to the gym, then I was done by the time he got home, we had some grub, and it was time to chill!
Got up liesurely, it was about 7am, or a little before. I wasn’t quite prepared to get up and officially greet the day, so I decided it was time for a momm-puppy cuddle session, another good thing. I went downstairs and got the dogs out of the crate, tried to sneak past PSM, trying not to wake him!, and got them upstairs and on the bed.
We settled in and Bee did her thing of circling the bed and settling in and falling asleep almost before her head hit the bed, Ruby did the same, stretched out and proceeded to try to lick my arm clean, no thanks. We were snuggled in for about 2 hours, we cuddled, watch some tv, not even sure what we watched. I say we, but we know the truth, it was really the dogs in control!
Got up eventually, took them to Stover Dam Park for a walk, they absolutely love it there! I chose the wrong footware, go figure, I wore my Chucks, which was fine for most of the park, a few areas were a bit wet, mushy, muddy, and slightly puddley [I made that last one up!] It was a teensy bit chilly while we were there, about 31 out and it was supposed to snow at some point and as we were leaving, here come some flakes, not much though.
Back to the house, feed the dogs, grab our Java Journey mugs and off to Ancester Coffeehouse & Creperie, which happens to be attached to Schnitz Creek Brewery, different. We ordered the drink of the day for PSM, something waayyy too sweet for PSM, but he’s a trooper, did you see…it came with one of those hearts in the foam! and chai latte with oat milk for me. Yummy, not a lot of variation on the chai lattes, in terms of crazy taste, each one is a little different, but ultimately, I usually enjoy it.
I ordered a savory crepe, the Secret Garden, and PSM had a egg and sausage bagel. While we waited, we were chatting, I said hello to the little boy at the table behind us, and I liked his glasses. We started talking with the parents and all of a sudden, the dad says “PSM?” Go figure, they work together! That was fun! We chatted with them for a while, about work, the town they live in, the town we live in, and the Java Journey, how much fun things like this are.
Our food came, y u m! We will definitely go back! Well, actually…to get another stamp we have to go to their other location, not a bad thing! We chatted some more and as we were sitting there, the brewery was taking over the tables around us, they opened at 1130am, and guess what time it was. PSM said we could finish our food and drink and move straight to the brewery!
After the brewery, we realized we needed salad fixings for the week, motorcycle cleaner, and we were contemplating going to a movie, so we headed in that direction, stopped at the Grocery Outlet, one of our favorite grocery stores. They have a good selection, some interesting items, a decent vegan selection, and not very expensive, a win-win! After the grocery store, we decided to check another coffee shop off our list…Sydney Roasting Co.
Turns out, we don’t actually have to bring the mugs with us, as long as we have the passports, we are good to go. Good to know! We orderd a chai latte for me with almond milk for me and whatever frozen, overly sweet drink for PSM. I tried it and agreed for the first few sips, it tasted like coffee ice cream, which I used to love, but 4 sips in…coffee, no thank you! We hung out, enjoyed the atmosphere, added this place to the list of places we might come back to! Loving this whole Java Journey thing!
After finishing, well almost finishing, our drinks headed to Auto Zone, unfortunately, they didn’t have what we needed, oh well, but..the movies await! We went to the local Regal Movie Theater to watch Wonka. LOVED IT! I’ll write another post about it, it was charming! We laughed, we cried, we just really enjoyed it!
After the movies we went to 7th Street Bar & Grill, one of our new favorite hang outs. It looks unassuming on the outside, inside, it’s not big, but it’s nice. They have two pool tables, a bunch of booths and tables, and a nice bar, we’ve only sat at the bar. My only issue with this place…the bathrooms are ffffrrreeezzzinnnnggg! I would say, if you can skip it in the winter, do it! Go in the summer, it will be great! I had a veggie burger and PSM had a reuben. One of the footbal playoff games was on, the Greenbay Packers were trouncing the Dallas Cowboys, on their own field, ouch. PSM started talking to a few people at the bar who could talk football, I was ok with that!
At some point, I headed home to take care of the dogs and left PSM in his football element. Dogs fed, toooo cold and windy for a walk! Took care of a few things around the house, started to talk to you and PSM called and said he was ready to come home. Off I went to pick him up, back home, change into sweats, hang out and talk to you while PSM watches some more football downstairs. Sounds like a win-win! Oh, I also ordered something for my art studio, can’t wait for it to get here!!! It’s all coming together, I can’t wait to share pics and updates!
Tomorrow the demo starts on the kitchen! If you have the day off tomorrow…enjoy! If you have to work…I hope it’s an easy day for you. Whatever you do…Happy Monday!
What a day! PSM let me sleep in and took the dogs for a long walk, it was great, I slept in until about 8am. Much needed after not falling asleep until about 330am, go figure. Even though I got about the same amount of sleep I normally do, there’s something about waking up on your own, no alarm, and after the sun comes up.
After bagels, we went to Harbor Freight to pick up a power screwdriver and craft desk/workbench for me and some drill bits for PSM. We were there the other day and I saw this Yukon, Three Drawer Hardwood Bench and I thought it would be perfect for my art studio. Something I’ll tell you about another time! I love it! The studio and the workbench! Not exactly looking forward to putting it together, but now that I have a new power screwdriver, I’m ready to go! I am now the proud owner of the bench and a Warrior Cordless Screwdriver Kit! Who’s with me getting excited about power tools?!
Next was Lowe’s to purchase the tile we were looking at for the kitchen renovation that starts on Monday, oh my! They had three boxes left, we needed five, go figure…but we found an associate to take the boxes down and found out that they had two more boxes at another location, score! The nice thing…we had appointments for hair cuts across the way, we’ll be back soon.
Across to Great Clips, we’re not fancy-schmancy folks when it comes to getting our hair cut. PSM does miss Sports Clips in St Louis, it was mostly the neck massage he misses. I used to go there too, since I like an almost high and tight, clippers work for me. But…we used to go to Great Clips as well and they do a good job. Let’s just say, having hair this short is great in the summer, but brrrr in the winter!
After hair cuts, we went back to Lowe’s to pick up the tiles, back to the house to drop off our purchases, then on to the Lowe’s in Palmyra, but along the way, we were thirsty, never got anything to drink with breakfast and we stopped into Swatara Coffee Company in Annville. According to the website, Swatara Coffee is a nationally recognized cafe using locally sourced ingredients and elevating Pennsylvania Dutch flavors. Bonus!
What a charming town, we haven’t spent a lot of time there, but we’re going to go back for sure. When the realtor was showing us around over the summer, we went through Annville, and we’ve driven through it a few times, but hadn’t stopped yet, but there are a few places on my list.
When we walked in, I immediately saw the mugs for the Lebanon Valley Java Journey! I got a text about this on Thursday, this is one of the things that happens in this area to get folks out, going to local places, and trying new things. It’s in its fifth year and it’s a trail of coffee shops across Lebanon County. There are 12 participating businesses, you purchase your Java Journey mug, we really liked them! And then at each location, they have a secret drink, which you can only get if you have one of the mugs. Once you make a purchase, you get a stamp in the ‘passport’. At the end, you turn in the passport and you’re entered into a drawing for prizes. You know me…I’m all about the swag!
While we were there, another couple had their mugs, we talked to them about it, then another two couples came in and we talked to them about it. They had done it in the past, and they made a day of it to go to all 12 places in one day! The hard part…the hours for the coffee shops is not condusive to weekday ventures, unless you can go before 2 or 3pm! So… it looks like we have our weekends set up until it’s over March 9th!
We love doing stuff like this, it gets us out and trying new places and cities, helps us explore, and…some of the places on the passport are already on my list of want to try! We are also doing a brewery passport tour, and someone told us about the Scooped ice cream tour in the summer! Cannot wait for that one!
PSM got the secret drink, I forgot what it was, sorry! and I was able to get a chait latte with mac milk, that’s macadamia nut for those not in the know, and we shared a french toast muffin. What a nice treat! I can’t wait to explore more coffee shops! Hmmm…maybe tomorrow morning we’ll try another. The hard part…remembering to bring the mugs!
Back in the car, off to Palmyra Lowe’s, got our tile, asked if there was a Harbor Freight nearby and they said yes, the one we were at earlier! ha ha. Next stop…Sherwin Williams for paint color books so we can figure out what color to paint the kitchen. We need to picks something that will compliment the grey cabinets, white marble countertops, and white-ish stone backsplash. Working on it, but we’re getting there!
Next, we needed lunch! We did a lot and it was time for food! We went to The Rotunda Restaurant and Brewery. This was an interesting place…in the front, or door we walked into, it was a bar/restaurant/brewery with a nice big bar to sit at, great big fireplace, cool decor, and in the back, there is a tiki bar! Yes, I said tiki bar! I did not take pictures of the tiki bar, I will save those for the next time we go!
We saddled up to the bar, placed a drink order, PSM got a flight of beers, I got hot tea, go figure…some of the beers were good, one, not so much, well, in his opinion, I tasted them all and, well, don’t ask me! We ordered food, I got the vegan refried bean tacos, and PSM got a burger. The food was good, the bartender was great, the other patrons at the bar were fun to chat with.
All told, we had a really good time and we look forward to going back!
After the Rotunda, back to Harbor Freight, I forgot something, PSM said he’s done with hardware stores for the day! I agree. Then home to finish clearing out the cabinets in the kitchen, pics of the whole process another time, you’re probably done with this post! After we cleared the cabinets, take the dogs for a walk and it was freezing! Temps in the 30s, winds 30-60 mph! I do love my winter parka and thank goodness for my new hat with the headlamp and the fuzzy lining, I would not have made it, my head was cold!
After that friends, isn’t that enough? Back home to put on comfy clothes, sweatpants were the order of the day! Then off to write to you to tell you about my day! I’m sitting here in my cozy sweatpants, a flannel top and my oversized sweatshirt. And I have a dog sitting under my desk, happily snoring away, what could be better?
Good night my friends. Cannot wait to find out what tomorrow brings! But whatever it is, you know I’ll share it!
Peaches Prattlings 