The D-Tour

I recently completed an online course and one of my fellow students asked if I had a blog. I replied that yes, indeed I did, but realized how much I've neglected it the past couple of years. I have taken a couple of vacations but haven't travelled as much as I'd like since the world opened up again after Covid. Strange how a couple of years ago, the thought of even crossing the border to Detroit seemed unlikely but I've been over a few times now,  most recently, last night. 

My sister Jennie and I booked a tour through Windsor Eats known as the D-TOUR: DETROIT PUB CRAWL. 

The D-Tour marks a WindsorEats bus tour to venture to Detroit. Hakuna Matata all night long as you travel magic school bus style to some of Detroit’s hidden and not-so-hidden gems. There will be three stops along the way for our guests to imbibe. Did we mention there’s also karaoke on the bus to keep you entertained?

The WindsorEats D-Tour, (get it? detour?) will allow easy access for you to visit some iconic local hangouts in Detroit without the need to drive, allowing you time to focus on a good time.

We arrived early at Windsor Eats so we could get a drink and some food before boarding the bus. Rico Taco has a food truck in the courtyard and serves the most delicious Mexican food. It pairs well with a Margarita flight offered inside Windsor Eats. We opted for the Beef Birria Fries: fresh cut fries with nacho cheese, beef birria, red onions, sour cream, guacamole cream sauce and cilantro. Soon after, our bus pulled up and we hopped on. 

We got through customs with no problems and headed to our first dive bar called Jolly Old Timers (or JOT for short). We were greeted by Judy who had us line up for drinks in an orderly fashion. (Judy is in the leopard print outfit in the photo below). Their specialty shot or cocktail is known as the Peanut Butter cookie. This consisted of Peanut Butter Whiskey mixed with Rum Chata. Most of us tried it. It was $5 a shot or $9 for a cocktail. Detroit prices are much cheaper than in Canada! We stayed for about an hour and 20 minutes and then hopped back on the bus to the 2nd stop on the tour. 

The peanut butter shot

The Two Way Inn, established in 1876 is the oldest bar in Detroit, having gone through many reincarnations as village jail and general store, brothel, speakeasy and now a dive bar. It had an old phone booth (captured above with Jennie inside) and an old cigarette machine. You have to be buzzed inside the bar. They have a camera at the door and watch to see who is outside before allowing them in. It's a great atmosphere in a historic setting. 

We hopped back on the bus where the karaoke was fired up. Soon, 35+ drunken Windsorites were belting out Sweet Caroline and Bohemian Rhapsody at the top of their lungs. Our poor bus driver! The 3rd and final stop was Abick's bar.  This hidden gem has been open since 1908, an old brick building with a cigar lounge in the back. The picture isn't deceiving...they still had all their Christmas decorations up (and Valentines and St. Pat's!). Apparently it's a running joke with the staff. 

We got back on the bus and made our way home through the Windsor-Detroit tunnel. This was such a fun experience. I would 100% recommend it. It was a fun group of people and it was interesting to see these gems that Detroit had to offer.  I promise my next post won't take 2 more years to write!

~MT

WHISKY AND COWBOYS

Last week I was on vacation. That word used to mean a destination, flying or driving somewhere towards new adventures.  I haven't been anywhere since October 2019 when we took a family trip to Costa Rica. Since COVID struck last year, my vacation time has been spent reading books, watching Netflix, and dreaming of white sandy beaches. The plus side of being off work for a week is not wearing a mask for the duration of a 12-hour shift. 

 

St. Patrick's Day came and went with limited celebration for the second year in a row. Four years ago, I was in Belfast celebrating with Jameson (no green beer in sight). Three years ago, I was in Mexico celebrating with Jose (no green beer here either). This year, I donned my green t-shirt and shamrock socks, opened a bottle of Jameson and started watching Netflix's, The Ranch. 

I'd heard good reviews about this series so decided to dive right in. After getting past the pilot with its laugh track and the surprise of Sam Elliott cursing out Ashton Kutcher's UGGs, I delved into the show with its great cast and storyline. 

Mammas don't let your babies grow up to be Cowboys....

The intro song was stuck in my head the entire week. I know you can click 'Skip Intro' on Netflix but I liked singing along to it. My country taste in music has thus far been limited to Kenny Rogers' The Gambler and a bit of Dolly Parton. I know the odd Garth Brooks song but sadly, that's all. There is something extremely catchy about the intro song and I find I'm still humming it even though I finished the show five days ago. 

The series was enjoyable although it was dark at times, primarily when Danny Masterson's character, Rooster, was written off the show. For a couple of seasons, the main characters were limited to Ashton Kutcher, Sam Elliott and Elisha Cuthbert. Dax Shepard stepped in for a recurring role and Debra Winger returned for the final season. The show was witty and funny but also sad at times. No matter what was happening on the ranch, it was always a pleasure staring at Elliott's moustache while listening to his dry humour.  

After finishing the series I felt a bit desolate. I found myself reflecting on the show and sad it was over (much how I feel after finishing a great book). I wasn't ready to say goodbye to the Bennett family. Then a friend recommended Yellowstone. 

Could I do another series about a family and their ranch so soon after? Turns out I was capable and had no problem taking the plunge. Kevin Costner plays John Dutton, a patriarch to a large, complicated family of ranchers. Yellowstone is a drama filled with corrupt politicians, murder and conflict. Although it's not humorous like The Ranch, it is equally entertaining. I binged Season 1 in a day and have started Season 2. Unfortunately, my vacation ended and I had to return to work, putting a hold on this series. I look forward to see what awaits. 

The past year has been a kick in the ass for many. Covid arrived and flipped our worlds upside-down . Some have lost jobs, some have lost loved ones and all of us have had to learn a 'new normal'. While I look forward to the day when I line up to board a plane again, overpaying to check my luggage and pray for an aisle seat, I'm grateful for the Internet and Netflix to offer some sort of escape. Sitting with my trusted companion Kirby, sans-mask, getting caught up in the lives of these cowboys while sipping on Jameson has certainly made me forget about Covid, even for just a little while. 

Be safe. 

~MT

Traveling on eMpTy: Saints �� & Sinners ��

Traveling on eMpTy: Saints �� & Sinners ��: My brother Gerry made it to the Big 5-0 so we took a trip to New Orleans to celebrate. My sisters and I have all been before but it was Gerr...

Saints 👼 & Sinners 😈

My brother Gerry made it to the Big 5-0 so we took a trip to New Orleans to celebrate. My sisters and I have all been before but it was Gerry's first time. My cousin Kenny flew from Vancouver to meet us. We chose the Prince Conti hotel, located in the French Quarter a half a block from Bourbon Street. My sister Jennie and I stayed at the same hotel 4 years ago and loved it.

Jennie cut herself out of this
picture. Only her eye is visible on the
left side! Bobbie chasing the Hurricane
with water. Gerry sticking to beer. 

After checking in and changing (what a difference in temperature to Windsor!) we hit Bourbon Street. We went to Pat O'Brien's located on St. Peter street with one of the best courtyards in the city. Famous for their Hurricane drink, this expansive bar has duelling piano's inside their lounge, and a beautiful courtyard with numerous trees and a waterfall. The Hurricane is a rum-based cocktail with passion fruit. They sell a 3 gallon glass for $150! We stuck to the smaller size and I tried their other well known cocktail, the Mint Julep. I prefer this Bourbon-based drink over the sweetness of the Hurricane.

We walked the Quarter and visited some other bars. It was a gorgeous day and we took advantage of the courtyards and the sun. Kenny's flight didn't get in until 9p.m. so we met him back at the hotel. We enjoyed some complimentary champagne and then hit the nightlife again.

Wednesday boasted the same weather with the sun shining. We walked around and took in the sights, the buskers and the music. We visited Jackson Square the home of Andrew Jackson's monument and Saint Louis Cathedral.







There were many people painting, performing,
giving readings, doing magic tricks or playing music. Jackson Square is bustling with activity and is great for people watching.



Located across the Square is Jax Brewery and Cafe du Monde. Famous for it's cafe-au-lait made with chicory and it's beignets, it's open 24 hours a day and there is always a line up. I can't even fathom how much powdered sugar they go through in one day!





That night we partook in a haunted carriage tour through the quarter. We met our guide and climbed into the mule-drawn carriage driven by Desire. Our tour started at 9p.m. so it was dark and perfect for the tales our guide shared. Passing by LaLaurie mansion, St. Louis Cathedral, and a number of bars, she told us stories of murder, medical experiments, torture and unexplained events that gave us goosebumps.

The next day, we visited the oldest bar, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar which has been around since the 1700's. Lit by candles inside, our guide told us it's haunted but still serves a great drink. The owner himself, Jean Lafitte has been known to appear, dressed as a sailor and stands near the fireplace. He doesn't speak to anyone and disappears once he's noticed. There is also a ghost on the second floor, belonging to a woman and she will even whisper in your ear. Unfortunately, we missed the ghost experience while we enjoyed our drinks.

Poached eggs on top
of the veal gillades.
My first time making
them but I'm not a fan!

One of the highlights of the trip was joining the New Orleans School of Cooking for a 3 hour hands-on cooking class. My sister Bobbie and I decided to do this and the meal was fantastic.


We made roasted sweet potato tasso bisque, veal grillades with cheese grits and poached eggs, and a chocolate pecan pie for dessert. Chef Eric was both entertaining and knowledgable. The bisque was probably the best thing I ate during our entire trip!

We got our own aprons and some recipes. We learned to say pecan properly (not PEE CAN) and the difference between creole and cajun food. Creole adds tomatoes and cajun is darkened. I am definitely going to try and replicate the bisque recipe at home.





We were able to sample some other tasty delights in New Orleans. From oysters, gator bites, and jambalaya at Felix's, to crawfish at Three Legged Dog (a total hole in the wall), to the po'boys at Deja Vu, the food and atmosphere at these places did not disappoint.




















For our last night, we boarded the Steamboat Natchez for a two hour journey down the Mississippi River. The cruise started in the heart of the French Quarter and went along the riverbanks showing a variety of ships in the harbour. We got to listen to the music of a live jazz band.

There is so much to see and do in New Orleans, it can't possibly be covered in one trip. This is simply a highlight of what we experienced. The music is incredible, the people are entertaining. We had such a good time and it was a great way for Gerry to say goodbye to his 40's and start his 50th year. Wonder where Bobbie will pick next year for her 50th?

~MT

Traveling on eMpTy: B����KS

Traveling on eMpTy: B����KS: My friend Cheryl asked me the other day why I haven't posted anything since December. My response was simply because I haven't t...

B📚📚KS

My friend Cheryl asked me the other day why I haven't posted anything since December. My response was simply because I haven't taken a trip for months. Then I started thinking about the 27 books I've read so far this year. It made me realize that every time I crack a book open, I am indeed traveling to where the author sends me.

Books are an escape, they transport us to places we go in our imagination and beyond. I have loved books even before I could read myself. My mother would read to me diligently and I absorbed every word. When I was able to read on my own, I would make my way every Tuesday evening to the Bookmobile where I would take out enough books to get me through the week. Beverly Cleary had me hooked with her story of the Quimby sisters Beezus and Ramona. I could relate to the nine year old narrator Beezus, and her tales of trying to get along with her younger sister. Judy Blume and her Fudge books had me in stitches. Her book "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret" was one of my favourites, following Margaret Simon's journey into puberty with her secret club of girlfriends that discussed boys, bras, and their first period. 

Then I discovered a kindred spirit in Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables. The character of Anne was both charming and dramatic and the adventures she faced with her bosom friend Diana, left me wanting more. Lucky for me, Montgomery wrote several sequels. 

I've always loved reading. It's been my solace and escape, has passed the time on many journeys and despite what some believe, the book is always better than the movie. I've owned a library card for most of my life. I love the smell and weight of books. Stepping into a library or bookstore immediately calms me and time stands still.  I love opening a novel, anticipating where the story will take me and what I'll learn. Discovering a new author is rewarding. I enjoy my Book Club discussions and sharing our thoughts and opinions over a drink. This year alone, my books have taken me to Ireland, Japan, L.A., Nebraska, Palestine, Heaven, and even my own city of Windsor. Here's a few that have stuck with me.

The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa is a delightful story of Nana the cat and his owner Saturo. They travel through Japan in a silver van, visiting three of Saturo's lifelong friends. This story is about connections, love and loyalty. 

I lived in Japan for almost seven years and could easily picture the scenery described in this story. Although I'm a dog person, I could still appreciate Saturo taking in this stray cat and the bond the two made over a number of years together. 

Fifteen years ago, Mitch Albom wrote, The Five People You Meet in Heaven. His sequel, The Next Person You Meet In Heaven is just as endearing. The first novel follows the life and death of a maintenance man named Eddie and he reappears in this novel. The story centres around a girl named Annie-who Eddie saved on Earth-and reunites with him in her own heavenly journey. This book will open your eyes to the what matters and that endings can also be beginnings. 

In Normal People, author Sally Rooney tells the story of Connell and Marianne. They meet in high school, both are intelligent but come from very different backgrounds. Despite their differences, they find a connection. The story follows them to Trinity College in Dublin and the dynamic of their relationship changes. 

Although the story is simple, centring around class distinction, first love, friendships and family, Rooney weaves a tale that is interesting and captivating. 

This is Kirby holding one of my favourite books this year, Daisy Jones & The Six. It's a fictional book about Daisy Jones, a beautiful girl with an amazing voice and a band she joins called The Six lead by singer Billy Dunne. Set in the 70's, this is the ultimate story of sex, drugs and rock and roll. The story is a chronicle of one of the biggest bands and the reason they broke up just when they were getting famous.

Jenkins Reid hooks you from the beginning and there is a twist at the end that will grab you. 

Although I haven't been on a plane since last October, my books have taken me to a number of countries and lent me stories that I've delved in. I'm heading to New Orleans next week for my brother's 50th. I'm looking forward to getting away but I will most certainly have a book in my carry-on to pass the flight. If you have a favourite book or author, feel free to share it with me as I am always looking for recommendations. Until next time, happy reading!







~MT

Auld Lang Syne

I can't believe it's been an entire year since we were yelling Happy New Year-all the best in 2018! If you ask most people, 2018 wasn't their best year. A lot of people are looking forward to putting this year behind them and starting over in 2019. Don't we always feel like this at the end of the year?

There's something about December 31st that forces us to look back and reminisce. We look at our accomplishments, disappointments and failures. We wonder why we didn't stay committed to our New Year's resolutions and why we aren't where we want to be today, heading into a new year.

When I contemplate 2018, it's not with regrets or disappointment. I'm one of the lucky ones who had a pretty great year. I traveled quite a bit and visited places I'd never been to before. I saw a couple of great broadway plays and took in a few good concerts. I started playing the ukulele which I absolutely love. I read 62 books and although not a personal best, I was able to escape in the pages and "travel" to new destinations among the stories. Of course it hasn't been all good. My dog Kirby was diagnosed with epilepsy in January and then got very sick again in March. This year has been a balance of medications and numerous visits to the vet. He woke up with me today and each day he does, I'm grateful.

Many are posting their "Best of 2018" by using nine photos of the past year. It's hard to sum up your entire year with only nine photos but I did it. I noticed that most of my good times were spent with family (and Kirby!). Trips to New York, Mexico, Chicago, Antigua, a family reunion...I feel very blessed.

If you find yourself reflecting today, focus on the good things that happened this past year. Be happy for your health, your job, family and friends that love you. Even if this year didn't turn out how you wanted it to, be thankful there's a chance to start anew in 2019. Whether you ring in the New Year at a bar or party, celebrating with friends, family or even on the couch with your dog, BE SAFE. Do what feels fun, lower your expectations and don't make resolutions. Perhaps start a new tradition in 2019 instead.

Thank you for spending time with me on my travels and journey. All the best to you in the New Year.

~MT