A Return to Hyatt Regency Crown Center

You may remember that my first stay at the Hyatt Regency Crown Center in Kansas City was less than ideal. As I mentioned at the end of that post, the hotel contacted me and we agreed to return and give them another chance.

We arrived in Kansas City on New Year's Day. The hotel was hosting a huge wedding party and was very busy. Happily the front desk had plenty of staff to handle the number of guests checking in. There were even enough bellmen- one brought up our luggage, a nice change from our last stay.

Unfortunately we encountered two rather problematic situations when we entered our room. After our long drive a restroom visit was necessary for a couple of girls. We found out very quickly that the toilet was clogged. The second problem was the very strong evidence that the non-smoking room had housed a smoker quite recently.

When the bellman arrived with our luggage I pointed out these problems to him. A call was placed to the front desk and we were moved to a new room before we had even unloaded our bags.

All the rooms are very similar. Two beds- quite comfortable- TV, dresser, mini fridge, desk, reading chair, bathroom. Everything was clean and neat and our room looked out at the World War I Memorial.

I was impressed when, a while later, we received a small "thank you" from the assistant manager of the hotel.


The fruit, bread and water arrived with a note thanking us for giving the hotel another chance. It was a nice touch- and much appreciated as the Crown Center restaurants were all closed on New Year's Day and I had a couple of hungry little girls!

Our check out the next morning was hassle free. We called down for a bellman and one was at our door within 5 minutes.

In retrospect:

The hotel seemed more fully staffed during this visit. The service we received was friendly and quick. It was a very pleasant stay and we will use this hotel for future visits to Crown Center.

What you should know:

Parking is an extra daily charge. A ramp is next door to the hotel. Self parking is around $14 daily, valet is around $18 daily. This is common for hotels in the area. Parking is included in some hotel packages.

Wifi is free in the lobby but is $9.99 in the room. Wireless service in the rooms is provided by Tmobile- which means you have to sign up for an account. (My biggest pet peeve is hotels that charge for wireless.)

Everything in the Crown Center area is in easy walking distance. The shops, entertainment, restaurants... Even Union Station is just a short stroll away.

Hotel Review
Kansas City

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Gastropub Dinner with Irish Celebrity Chef Kevin Dundon at Raglan Road in Kansas City

I'm pretty sure that celebrity chef dinners happen quite often in places like Los Angeles and New York. And maybe even in Chicago. But it's not really something that happens in the center of the country so when I saw that one of my favorite Kansas City restaurants, Raglan Road, was hosting a Gastropub Dinner with Master Chef Kevin Dundon (Ireland's Chef of the Year 2009) we made the drive down for dinner.

Yes, we drove 3 hours- one way- for dinner. And drove back that night. Yes, it was worth it!

Kevin and his wife Catherine own and operate the incredible Dunbrody Country House Hotel in Arthurstown, County Wexford, Ireland. (It is, incidentally, across the road from Glendine House, where we stayed in 2008.)

We were lucky enough to meet Kevin briefly before dinner and again after the meal. It's no wonder his hotel is so highly rated: the man exudes Irish charm. And he can cook! Our meal was incredible! Forget what impressions you may have of Irish food- this isn't typical "pub grub"...

Our four course meal began with a choice of Warm Goat Cheese and Orange Salad with Caramelized Walnuts or Mini Beef and Lamb Shepherds Pie with a Port Wine Jus. I can't speak about the salad, though it looked incredible, because everyone at my table had the Shepherds Pie. The flavors of the meats with the port wine jus...fabulous. I loved the presentation of the potatoes artfully balanced on top with a caramelized onion leaf. Delish!

The second course was Maine Lobster Bisque. I'm not a huge fan of lobster but the bisque was very flavorful and creamy. Of course the presentation was incredible...

The entree followed. The choices were Roast Pork Belly with an Irish Mist and Honey Glaze served with Pickled Cabbage or Crispy Pan Seared Salmon served on a Ragout of Winter Vegetables. I chose the pork belly. I cut it with a butter knife. It was so tender and flavorful. The glaze was so sweet- I'm going to have to do my best to recreate it. Doug had the salmon. He pronounced it perfectly prepared and "excellent".


And then came dessert. Merely calling the Chocolate Fondant with Irish Stout Ice Cream "dessert" is almost too plain. Though it appeared unassuming on sight there is really no way to describe the incredible richness of the chocolate, how the surface opened to reveal an interior of molten chocolate or how truly decadent it was.

The Gastropub Dinners at Raglan Road just began in summer 2009 but response has been positive and the restaurant plans to do more- one per quarter at each restaurant (there is another location at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney, Orlando, Florida.) To keep up to date on upcoming events check out the "Get In Here" page on Raglan Road's website or follow @RaglanRoadPub on Twitter.

If you're really wanting a taste of Ireland try some of Kevin Dundon's recipes for yourself! The mini shepherds pie recipe is in the "starters" section, there is a lovely loin of bacon in Irish Mist glaze in the "mains", and an Irish whiskey chocolate fondant in the "desserts". I have a feeling my annual St. Patrick's feast may have some new dishes this year! Sláinte!

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Model Trains at Union Station

Union Station in Kansas City is still an active depot for Amtrak. During the height of train travel in 1917 nearly 80,000 trains came through the station. Though you won't see as many trains going through the station these days the heart of Union Station is still with that golden age.

One example of this is the amazing Holiday Village Train display in the main lobby. It opens the day after Thanksgiving and stays up until the Sunday after New Year.



It's really quite an incredible display. There were at least 7 full trains (including the Polar Express) and a handful of trolleys rolling on the miles of track. It's truly astounding.

It takes a couple of months to get this display built and running so if you visit in the months of September and October you may see just what goes into the creation of such a huge display.

Not visiting during the holiday season? Not to worry. Hidden off the side of the North Waiting Room is the Kansas City Lionel Club's model train display. This display is staffed by the members of the club, so it may be "hit or miss" on the display being open. Though the set up is permanent the trains running are brought in by the members. And they are happy to answer questions. If you're really good they may even let you blow the whistle!

Things To Do
Kansas City

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: January 8-10, 2010

Assuming the weather clears up, that is.

My pick for this weekend: Ice Fest at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque. If you can't beat the weather you may as well enjoy it! Snow carving and ice sculpting, snow sliding, ice bowling and more.

If indoor activities are more your style I have a trio for you:

The North Iowa Fair Flea Market in Mason City has something for everyone. Fri. 4pm-8pm; Sat. 9am-6pm; Sun. 9am-4pm. Admission: Free.

Or head to Cherokee for the Jazz and Blues Festival. Concerts, a jam session and a blues clinic.

For hands on creativity head to Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and learn foil printing. The session is Saturday from 10:30am til noon.

If your community has an event you would like to see published here, please email me.

Have a great weekend and stay warm!

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Chasing Chocolate: The Chocolate Exhibition at Union Station, Kansas City, Missouri

Like chocolate? Then you'll want to head down to Union Station in Kansas City because the Chocolate Exhibition has been extended thru January 17!

The national tour of Chocolate the Exhibition was developed by the Field Museum and is nearing the end of it's national tour.

(Photos are not allowed inside the exhibit. I was allowed special access to share some of the exhibit with my readers.)

The exhibit takes you from chocolate's humble beginnings as a very large pod filled with seeds. Learning about the cocoa seeds was incredibly informative. From bugs to birds, plants to people, everything has to be "just right" for the large pods to grow.

There were many interactive displays that helped us to keep the girls interested, though I did notice that we had the only children in the exhibit. I did think that was a shame- what kid doesn't like chocolate? And the process from seed to bar is just amazing.

The girls- and even myself- were fascinated by the value chocolate had as money. It was so valuable that most couldn't afford to drink it. Think of it like drinking your money. It was used to buy every day items like eggs, tomatoes, peppers and avocados. It wasn't sold in markets and was kept locked away.

Even when chocolate came to Europe it was only enjoyed by the upper classes for many years. Special cups and pots were used for it. In fact, the saucer was invented to keep chocolate from dripping onto clothes.

Mass production of chocolate is a recent event- and the addition of milk (ie: milk chocolate) made it affordable to everyone.

The large "box of chocolates" wall with televisions was a great ending to the exhibit. The girls sat on "chocolate cup" chairs and listened to scientists and "regular people" talk about the "happiness effect" chocolate has and how it is dangerous for dogs.

Of course you can't end a chocolate tour without a taste of what you've learned about... The samples are available as long as they last. Yum!

There is also a gift shop at the exit. Sadly it seemed to be sparsely populated. I fully expected chocolates galore... The offerings were a disappointment after such an interesting exhibition.

Want to go? Here's the info:






























Disclosure: We were provided tickets to this exhibit. Thoughts and photos are my own.

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: January 1- January 3, 2010

Happy New Year! There are a couple fun things going on around the state this weekend.

The Butterfly Blizzard at Reiman Gardens ends this Sunday, January 3. Hours are 9 am-4:30 pm.

Fairfield's First Friday Art Walk is hosting a New Year's Eve benefit titled "Down the Rabbit Hole". Tickets are $25 at the door.

Have a safe and Happy New Year! See you in 2010!

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Sometimes There is No Escaping the Weather

Sometimes even the best laid plans go awry. We had planned to leave the cold of Iowa for a brief sojourn in Texas- first with stops in Dallas to visit family then down to Houston to relax at The Woodlands Resort.

Unfortunately the weather we wanted so badly to escape will actually be holding us hostage. After a snowstorm a week ago practically shut down our city for 2 days another one- this one with freezing rain and ice- is bringing "travel not advised" warnings, towing bans and dangerous conditions.

I don't care how much I enjoy travel, I'm not one to risk my family's well-being for a little sun. So no Texas for us right now, though we will be enjoying the Kansas City part of our adventure- if the weather doesn't get in the way of it, too!

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: December 11-13, 2009

After a few days of being shut in I know I'll want to get out this weekend! Here's a list of things to do around the state:

My pick:
Prairie Christmas at Living History Farms in Des Moines; Saturday

Travel back in time and celebrate Christmas on the prairie! The town of Walnut Hill is bustling with holiday activity. The ladies of the Flynn House and Tangen Home are preparing for their parties and you can get in the holiday spirit by pulling taffy, making crafts, and taking a horse-drawn wagon ride around town. Enjoy an old-fashioned church social with the Walnut Hill Choral Society and visit with the big guy himself - Santa Claus, straight from the North Pole! $5, $4.50 for members.

Other events around Iowa:

Northeast:
12 Days of Christmas in Czech Village, Cedar Rapids, Saturday

12 Days of Christmas Detsky Holiday Crafts Workshop for children ages 5-12 in the Bartunek's Building (98 16th Ave SW) 2pm-4pm. Children's 12 Days of Christmas Sing-a-long with hot chocolate and cookies at the Bohemia Cafe (95 16th Ave SW) 4pm-4:30pm Czech Village/New Bohemia Luminaries 5pm-9pm (3rd Street SE to 16th Avenue SW)

Ecumenical Concert, Waukon, Sunday

Christmas concert involving volunteers from several organizations and churches. Includes brass choir, bell choir, men, women and children choirs. Concert starts at 7:30 pm.

Southeast:
The Putnam Museum turns 142! Monday, December 14 (it misses by a day but this is too good not to mention!)

Enjoy free admission to the exhibit halls all day long. And view The Polar Express on the IMAX (admission fees apply for movies)

The Old Creamery Theatre presents A Partridge in a Pear Tree, Saturday, Amana

And after the show go into Amana to view the Tannenbaum Forest, eat some great German food and do a little shopping!

Southwest:
Christmas in Mt Ayr

Free children's Christmas movie, festival of trees in the depot, Christmas tour of homes, Christmas concert by the Ringgold Singers. Mt Ayr also collects toys "ready to be loved again" in their Christmas Toy Drive.

Northwest:
Hometown Christmas in Marcus

Sleigh ride, Santa, festival of trees, refreshments, live Nativity, carolers, chili feed and shopping.

10th Annual Loess Hills Christmas Event at Country Homestead B&B, Turin

Hot cider, cocoa and treats. This year, free Christmas trees are available for the cutting. Bring your own saw and appropriate clothing for hiking into the hills to choose your own cedar tree.

Central:
Butterfly Blizzard at Reiman Gardens, Ames 9am - 4:30 pm daily

Thousands of tropical butterflies will fill the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing like never before for the multicolored Butterfly Blizzard event. Take shelter from the Blizzard in the holiday themed, tropical Conservatory and visit the Gift Shop. Reiman Gardens is a Toys for Tots drop off site. Entertainment this weekend:
Saturday, December 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Ames Children's Choir
Saturday, December 12 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. - Johnston Station Jazz Band (Big Band)
Sunday, December 13 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. - Junction Jazz Society
Children age 3 and under, Free; Youth age 4-17 $3.00; Senior age 65 and above $6.00; Adults age 18-64 $7.00

If you would like your event listed on this page please email me.

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Chocolate at Union Station in Kansas City

On our way home from Houston we'll be making a stop in Kansas City to enjoy Chocolate the Exhibition at Union Station.

Did you know that Americans eat, on average, 12 pounds of chocolate per person per year? Or that each chocolate pod is about the size of a pineapple and holds enough seeds to make seven milk chocolate or two dark chocolate bars?

This Saturday (December 12) you can enjoy a chocolate chip pancake breakfast before exploring the exhibit. YUM! Or head down on Thursday, December 17 for chocolate and vodka tasting (advance registration required). Chocolate samples are also available- while supplies last.






































Disclosure: Our tickets to Chocolate the Exhibition were given to us in exchange for this article.

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Images from Prelude to Christmas in the Amana Colonies, Iowa

We spent Sunday in one of our favorite Iowa areas: the Amana Colonies. I've written many times about the Amana Colonies but I just wanted to share some photos from our day.

We visited the Tannenbaum Forest in the Festhalle Barn behind the Visitor's Center. The girls were both happy to see Santa- he had candy canes!


In the Tannenbaum Forest were dozens of trees decorated by various Amana entities and a huge 3 story German Christmas Pyramid.

Of course we can't go to the Amana Colonies without eating wonderful German food... Wursts, schnitzel, chicken, kraut... Mmmm...

And we stopped at the woolen mill because I forgot to bring gloves. We saw ladies spinning alpaca wool. Apparently they can also spin dog fur...

We wandered the village, stopping in shops for toys, wine, cheese and other "necessities". I loved the gingerbread house contest displayed in the General Store.


We love the Amana Colonies. It's a great Iowa getaway any time of the year.

Things To Do
Iowa City

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: December 4-6, 2009

It's December- and today it feels like it! Rumor is there may be snow this evening. Iowa is filled with fun things to do this weekend- get out and enjoy!

My pick:
We'll be trekking to the Amana Colonies this weekend for Prelude to Christmas. The Tannembaum Forest, the Gingerbread Trail, the Villages of Amana Haus Walk... And then the shops and restaurants... If you haven't been to the Amana Colonies this is the perfect weekend!

Happenings around Iowa:

Central: Albia's Victorian Stroll, Saturday, all day

Take the kids to see Santa in his workshop. Sample a freshly roasted chestnut from a street vendor.

View the spectacularly decorated Christmas trees in the Chamber building at the Festival of Trees. See the Garden Train and Department 56 display at the First Iowa State bank.

Munch on a bag of kettle corn. And definitely take a look and see what Albia Merchants and Restaurateurs’ have to offer.

During the day there are several events to attend such as breakfast with Santa, A Christmas Craft Show and a Kids movie with Santa. See the back of the brochure for more details.

And please take in the joy and warmth of the holiday season and have a prosperous New Year.

Take a horse drawn carriage ride around the square. Take in the beautiful Christmas lighting that adorns the 92 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the lights on the courthouse trees.

Southwest:
No place like Creston for the Holidays Begins December 3.

Festival of trees, Santa's arrival at the historic Depot, entertainers, model railroads at the historic Depot, lighted Christmas parade and much more.

Christmas in Atlantic Saturday

Times: Parade starts at 6. Horse-drawn carriage rides go from 3-5, Santa visits in the log cabin are 3-5. Living windows are from 5 to 6.

Admission charge: Free! Santa, carriage rides, etc. are all free! We give out free hot chocolate from 3-5, too. (And it’s goooood!)

We do a lot of celebrations for Christmas, but this weekend is our biggest! Our lighted parade starts with fireworks, and then kids and adults alike love to see all the lighted entries. Make a day of it by coming in for lunch (Lots of great local places!), doing a little shopping (might I recommend Bonnesen’s 5 & 10? This general store is a favorite of ours and kid-approved!), seeing Santa, taking a Carriage Ride, watching the parade, and then eat a little dinner. Before you head home, be sure to cruise up-and-down Chestnut Street, too. We have 6 blocks of new LED Christmas Lights. We love Christmas in Atlantic and hope you will too!

Northwest:
LeMars has so much going on this weekend!

Storybook Christmas at the Arts Center on Saturday, a Lighted Christmas Parade Friday night and Pioneer Village Christmas Wonderland with Live Nativity scene, sleigh rides, lighted trees, animated Christmas scenes, music and more Saturday and Sunday.

Northeast:
Hampton is hosting the Hollydazzle Historic Tour of Homes Saturday and Sunday.

We will be touring the Blum/Boehmler House in Hampton, The Harriman Nielsen House on the West edge of Hampton, Country Heritage Bed and Breakfast five miles West of Hampton, The Old Stone House on the way to Geneva and ending at Townsend Winery in Hansell. You will learn the history of each home, be able to ask all the questions you want, enjoy a light repast at several homes and receive a wine tasting at the Winery. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of tour.

Southeast:
Christmas in LeClaire All weekend

The charming downtown of LeClaire is transformed into a scene from a Norman Rockwell holiday painting, with its delightful shopping, carriage rides, crafts fair, silent auction, breakfast with Santa at Happy Joes and living nativity scene.

Get out and explore Iowa! If your community has an upcoming event you would like to see featured here contact me.

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On the Road Again

I've been working on plans for the past few weeks for a winter getaway for us. Because Doug's family is in Texas it made sense to plan something in the south. We haven't been down in almost 3 years and it will, hopefully, be warmer there than our home in Iowa in late December. Here's the plans so far:

A bright and early departure and 12+ hour drive to Dallas. I'm not yet sure where we will be staying. Any recommendations for family friendly lodgings?

We'll spend 2 days in Dallas then head down to Houston to stay 3 nights at The Woodlands Resort. Hopefully it will be nice enough for the girls to play in the pool. We're looking forward to relaxing and enjoying the nature trails. Any Houston experts have a "not to be missed" attraction?

Our drive back will also begin early, but we won't do it in one day. We'll come back through Louisana and Arkansas with a stop in Ozark, Missouri at Lambert's- the home of the Throwed Roll. We've eaten at Lambert's once, years ago and can't wait to take the girls.

After filling our bellies we'll drive a few more hours to Kansas City for a good night's rest. Then another filling meal: Irish Breakfast at Raglan Road before we visit Chocolate: the Exhibition at Union Station.


We'll need the chocolate buzz for the drive home.

Look for individual posts about our destinations and activities coming soon! And be sure to give me some Houston tips!

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: November 20-22, 2009

Don't overlook all the great activities Iowa offers. Here are my picks for this weekend:

Top Pick: 18th Annual Holiday Stroll & Bazaar in Marshalltown.

See reindeer and Santa at the parade down Main Street for the annual lighting of the holiday lights on the courthouse square. Businesses open late with treats and free entertainment.

More events around Iowa

Northeast Iowa: Tony Kenny's "Christmas Time in Ireland" at the Grand Opera House in Dubuque

Music, song, dance and comedy headlined by vocalist Tony Kenny, Ireland's Entertainer of the Year. At the Grand Opera House.

Southeast Iowa: 16th Annual Arts & Crafts Show at Carver Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City

Over 150 talented exhibitors will be presenting and selling the Midwest's finest handcrafts with thousands of unique creations. This is one of the area's largest shows. Among the various items presented at the show are oak furniture, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, metal art sculptures, pet products, yard art, pottery, candles, clothing, floral wreaths, stained glass, and many more original products.

Exhibitors will also be selling food items such as salsa, barbeque sauce, dips, jams, dried food and soup mixes, fudge, and gormet bread, All items offered for sale to the public are handmade by the exhibitor present at the show. Most exhibitors will also accept special order requests.

Admission to the show is only $3, with anyone 10 and under free. Show hours are 9 AM to 4 PM.

Central Iowa: Pella Historical Christmas Walk

Enjoy complimentary cookies and coffee as you stroll through 20 buildings lavishly decorated for the holiday season.

Southwest Iowa: A Bite of Bedford

Holiday shopping, food samples, festive atmosphere in small-town Iowa.

Northwest Iowa: Holiday Collections Craft Fair at the Sioux City Convention Center

23rd Annual Holiday Collections Arts & Craft Fair Saturday, November 21 from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday, November 22 from 10am-4pm! A $5.00 paid admission is good for BOTH days, and kids 12 and under are FREE! Over 150 exhibitors showcase handmade items to get your home ready for the holidays. As always, the Sioux City Convention Center offers free parking, and enter to win door prizes throughout the event.

Get out and explore Iowa! If you would like your community event listed here please contact me. For more events around Iowa visit Travel Iowa.

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Luxury at the Hotel Pattee in Perry, Iowa

This past weekend I hosted the I_Blog Conference at the Hotel Pattee in Perry, Iowa. I have to say that beyond the beauty of the hotel the staff worked very hard to make sure a good time was had by all. They worked with me every step of the way to make sure my event would go off without a hitch. Everything was perfect from the food, to the social hour, to the conference room we used. I highly recommend the Hotel Pattee if you are looking for a hotel for any event.

Now, on to the hotel... I stayed in the Irish room.


The room was tastefully decorated with Irish woolens, Aran knits and rough hewn furniture. Irish knick-knacks were around the room and Irish sayings rimmed the ceiling. When lit from just below with a dimmer it was almost ethereal. My favorite part of the room were the built in cabinets. Mine had a small nook with a pull out writing table. This room was so comfortable... I could have easily curled up in here and let the weekend pass by.

The bathroom was large with an oversized sink/ vanity and a bathtub/ shower combo.

The Hotel Pattee is a boutique hotel and has only 40 rooms, each with it's own theme. All have the wonderful built in cabinets, some have whirlpool tubs and some are handicapped accessible. Two rooms, the Kids' Suite and the Travel Suite, are family friendly and overlook the whimsical sculpture garden.

The wonder of the Pattee isn't only in its' rooms. It begins as you walk through the heavy wooden doors into the lobby. I think breathtaking is the only way to describe it. The tiled floors, the mahogany desk and the stone fireplace, modeled after the one at the Biltmore in North Carolina. It's beautiful and inviting and unexpected.

Just to the side of the fireplace is the library. Shelves of books, floor to ceiling, invite you to peruse, choose and relax. Even the bathrooms are fabulous!

In the basement of the hotel is a rare treat: a two lane bowling alley. Leave the husband and kids there and go relax in the spa. There is also a fitness center, steam room, sauna and hot tub.

If you're hungry you don't have to leave the hotel as the best food in Perry is found on property at David's Milwaukee Diner. I recommend the quiche. If you are there on a Sunday morning don't miss the brunch, served from 10 am - 2 pm.

The Hotel Pattee sits on the edge of Perry's quaint downtown area. Wander around, take in the small town atmosphere,relax and just enjoy your stay.

Room rates vary depending on type of room and day of the week. Be sure to check for special package deals.

Hotel Review
Perry

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Things To Do in Iowa This Weekend: November 13 - 15, 2009

Iowa is filled with so many festivals, celebrations and activities. These are my picks for this weekend:

I will be hosting the first annual I_Blog Conference at the incredible Hotel Pattee in Perry this weekend. There are still a few tickets left for this great line up of speakers, fun and I_Bloginis! click here if you are interested in attending.

Central : Iowa's Premier Food & Wine Expo, Iowa Events Center, Des Moines, November 13 & 14

Iowa's largest culinary celebration! Iowa's Premier Wine and Food Expo will be a destination to collect recipes, sample wine, spirits and speciality beers, including those from local brew pubs and wineries. See live demonstrations and more!

Celebrity Chef appearances by Duff Goldman of Food Network's Ace of Cakes and Andrew Zimmern of Travel Channels Bizarre Foods.

Tickets $20 per day or $35 for both days. Friday noon-10pm, Saturday 10am-9pm

West: Victory Fighting Championship, Mid-American Center, Council Bluffs, November 13

VFC 29:THE RISING fight card will have ten plus fights on schedule, full of great regional and national MMA talent.

Tickets:
General Admission: $23 ($28 day of show), plus applicable fees
Reserved Ringside: $103, $93 and $83, plus applicable fees
Reserved Tables of Ten (must purchase entire table): $730, plus applicable fees

Time 7:30pm

Northeast: VMH Foundation Christmas Fantasy, Allamakee County Fairgrounds, Waukon

Uniquely decorated Christmas trees, food, music and other events and attractions to get everyone in the Holiday spirit. Many items for sale as well.

Free event. Open Friday 13 thru Monday 16.

Southeast: Festival of Wreaths and Lights, Muscatine Arts Center, Sunday November 15

Exhibition of decorated trees, wreaths and lights. Visit with Santa on November 15 and reserve your spot at the gala fundraiser November 21. At the Muscatine Art Center. Free event, 1-5 pm.

If you would like your event to be considered for this site please contact Have Kid Will Travel.

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Drew's Chocolates, Dexter, Iowa

About half an hour west of Des Moines lies the tiny town of Dexter. Dexter may be most well known as the location where Marvin and Blanche Barrow, of Bonnie & Clyde notoriety, were captured. (For more information on Dexter please view my article at UpTake Attractions.)

Lesser known, but nearly as famous, are Drew's Chocolates. Drew's Chocolates began in 1927 when Helen Drew began making candy in her Dexter home. Today Drew's is in the same location, on the west edge of Dexter.

The house is unassuming though the small sitting area just outside the door invites you to relax for a bit and enjoy the treats you've purchased.

After entering you carefully walk down the steps into the basement shop. Suddenly you have left the tiny house and have entered a chocolate haven.

Drew's Chocolates are made using original recipes and equipment. Each piece of candy is fork dipped. The display is filled with treats, one more delicious than the next. Homemade creams, indulgent chocolate covered fudges, buttery caramels and crunchy toffees vie for your attention along side chocolate dipped gummy bears (my daughter's favorite) and the addictive chocolate dipped red licorice. You'll want to sample the Drew Drops: roasted pecans and vanilla caramels covered in chocolate.

Drew's is definitely worth the stop if you find yourself along I-80 west of Des Moines.

Store Hours:
Mon-Thurs 9am-6pm
Fri-Sat 9am-5pm
Sun 12pm-4pm

Phone:
515-789-4540
800-243-7397

Address:
426 State Street, Dexter, Iowa 50070
Map it

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Family Fun at Center Grove Orchard, Cambridge, Iowa

If you're near central Iowa in the fall you'll want to make sure to get off the Interstate (I-35, exit 102; north of Ankeny, south of Ames) and enjoy a day of family fun at Center Grove Orchard. This is one of those "a picture is worth a thousand words" posts. Enjoy!

Center Grove Orchard is more than an orchard...

They also have a pumpkin patch (pick your own or choose one that has been picked)...

Two mazes: one kid sized hay maze (also good for climbing on top of) and a 4-acre corn maze...

Try your hand at roping a "steer"- or yourself...

Test your aim with the Apple Sling Shot...

Or try one of the other fun things like the bouncing pillow, the corn pool, pedal tractor racing, the Three Little Pigs houses, the super slide, the goat walk and more!

This is an orchard- and a working farm- so be sure to catch a hay ride and head out to pick your own apples (purchase bags before setting out). The hayride is also the quickest way to the pumpkin patch and the corn maze.

After you've had your fill of fun head into the Country Store to fill your belly. Here you'll find apples, gooey caramel apples, flaky apple turnovers, tasty apple cider donuts, apple pie (along with cherry and pumpkin), apple cider (warm and cold), apple slush... And, beyond the apples, you'll find shelves of Iowa goodness: fresh salsas, amazing BBQ sauces (I recommend the raspberry chipotle), syrups, salad dressings, jams, jellies and more. Oh, and I bet you won't leave without some homemade fudge.

You'll want to designate at least 3 hours for fun at Center Grove Orchard- though I recommend more to not be rushed. It's a wonderful family tradition for us.

Fast Facts:

During the regular season (fall) the orchard is open 7 days a week.

• Monday - Saturday 9am- 7pm
• Sunday 11am- 6pm

Center Grove Orchard is just off I-35; north of Ankeny, south of Ames at exit 102. Google Map

Admission cost (current as of October 2009. Visit their website for updates)

• Farmyard Pass $7.95 ages 3 and up
• No pass is needed to shop in the Country Store or pick your own apples during the week.

Rest rooms are available in the Country Store and port-a-potties are scattered about the farm.

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Kansas City Irish Fest, Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City Irish Fest, one of Kansas City's favorite festivals, takes place Labor Day weekend, Friday thru Sunday, at Crown Center. Though this was our first time at the festival, 2009 marked the 7th year of celebrating Celtic pride in "Cowtown".

Though I had browsed the website and tried to keep up with band announcements and other goings on at Tir na Blog I felt unprepared for the festival itself. I wasn't sure just how family friendly it would be- or how crowded.

I shouldn't have worried. After 7 years the organizers have the festival down to a science. Let me take you on a little tour...

Are you curious about the cows? Kansas City is often called "Cowtown" because, back when cattle roamed the range and cowboys "drove" cattle instead of ATVs, many of those herds ended their journey in Kansas City before becoming a juicy steak.

Entertainment

There's no lack of entertainment. From over a dozen great Irish bands - everything from traditional pub tunes to new sounds that don't compromise tradition- comedians and Irish dancers there is never a question of, "Is there something to do?" it's a question of, "How can we do it all?"

The main stages, the Boulevard Stage and the State Street Stage, are at opposite ends of the grounds; far enough that they don't overwhelm each other.

In between are the children's stage- which features puppets, storytelling, kids bands and workshops- and the Heritage Stage where you'll learn Irish history, tips on genealogy, pick up a bit of the Irish language and maybe take a turn in a Ceili.

This year Barry FitzGerald from Ghost Hunters International was on hand telling stories about the wee folk around Ireland.



For the Kids

Don't even think the kids are going to get bored. Sprinkled around the festival grounds are bounce houses (a fee applies for these), 3 children's areas with activities, Irish Rock Band and Dance Dance Jig Jig Revolution. Trust me, you won't run out of things to do!

Irish Organizations

Whether you're Irish- or you just wish you were- stop by the tents run by Kansas City's Irish Organizations. Learn what they are doing- and what they have helped to do in the past.

Food & Drinks

It's a sad fact... You cannot get a Guinness at Irish Fest. Nor can you get a hard cider of any sort. Blame that on the fact that Boulevard Brewing Company is in Kansas City. Other alcoholic beverages are served as well as sodas and water. If buying from a beverage tent you must have drink tickets.

Food ranges from traditional Irish fare- Fish & chips, pasties- to fair foods like pizza, turkey legs and ice cream. No one will leave hungry. If you can't find anything that suits you just leave the festival grounds (get your hand stamped for re-admittance) and head into Crown Center - where the food may actually cost less!

For a great Irish Breakfast head to Raglan Road. You won't be disappointed.

Shops

No festival is complete without shopping. If it's Irish you'll find it here. Food, clothing, jewelry, penny whistles, art, photography, crafts...

Where to Go When You've Gotta Go

The festival grounds are lined with porta-potties. These aren't too disgusting until late evening. A baby changing station is located near the children's area in the center of the festival grounds.

Irish Museum and Cultural Center

With all the fun going on it's esy to forget about the Irish Museum and Cultural Center in nearby Union Station. We stopped in to buy a book and spent quite a bit of time there listening to Tom Meehan, an Irish balladeer. He was very kind and let Brenna sing a few songs with him- Irish Rover, Leaving Liverpool and Molly Malone.

Where to Stay

Crown Center has two hotels : Hyatt Regency Crown Center and Westin Crown Center.

Things To Do
Kansas City

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Hyatt Regency Crown Center

Note: This post has been updated; please see comments at the end of the post.

This was originally posted 9/21/09
I am, quite honestly, torn about this hotel. While it was nice and the location is on the Link (skywalk system around the Crown Center complex) I really expected to enjoy my stay here more than I did.

I had great expectations before we even arrived. One of the reasons we chose the Hyatt Regency was because I could get adjoining rooms- meaning they have an interior door between them. My mom and cousin were joining us for KC Irish Fest; because I know my girls (and how much they love their grandma) I knew they would want to be with her. But I didn't want them roaming in the halls. Score one for Hyatt.

A few days before we left I called the hotel to confirm that we would have adjoining rooms. I had what was possibly the greatest telephone customer service I have ever received. Score two for Hyatt.

Then came our arrival. We came into town for the most popular festival of the year. Unfortunately the hotel didn't seem like it was fully staffed to service the guests. Check in lines were very long- and very slow. And while a trolley was loaded with our bags by the bellman, it was left for us to take to the room and return to the lobby. (Which wasn't really a problem until time to check out. More on that later.) Strike one for Hyatt.

On top of that, I received tickets to the festival. Which would have been great if the special rates page on their website would have mentioned it. It didn't, so I purchased our tickets from the festival itself. Which means I spent money on tickets I didn't need. And the person handling my check in was a bit snooty when I said that the website hadn't mentioned festival tickets. When she said that she was "positive it did" I opened my computer and showed her the image of the page I ordered from. When she had to admit that I was correct she wasn't very nice about it. Strike two for Hyatt.

On to the rooms. They were adjoining (yea!) and both were quite roomy. Both had a small refrigerator and a nice sized dresser and desk. The bathrooms were large, as well, with marble counter tops and spacious bathtubs.

My only issue with the rooms, and I find this with a lot of hotels, is that there is a charge for internet access. I don't understand this. And, even worse, you had to be online to sign up for the T-mobile service, so you couldn't do it from the room. Luckily I was able to pick up a very weak unsecured signal- possibly from the lobby?- but even with a paid internet connection the signal was spotty and we had to be in front of a window for it to work. Ball one for Hyatt.

Breakfast is not included with your room rate. We knew this, so it wasn't a surprise. Crown Center restaurants are close, including Panera and Einstein Bagels. If you are visiting on a weekend head up to Raglan Road for an exquisite Irish breakfast.

Check out was when things got really annoying. Because we had rolled the trolley up to our room on arrival I sent Doug down to get one. He was told he couldn't have one because, "Those are for our arriving guests." What? It's not quite 10am and people are checking out. I was a bit annoyed and called down to the customer service counter who told me someone would be "right up" with a trolley. Well, right up certainly didn't mean anytime soon as we waited half an hour. I called back down. Seems we were "forgotten". Nice.

I went down to the lobby with the girls to check out, leaving Doug upstairs with the luggage. As I was paying I commented to the clerk at the counter about what had happened. "We only have two bellman on today and they need the carts to do their job." OK, fine. So why were there more carts when we arrived- and why did we do their job then? I received no answer. Strike three for Hyatt.

While I'm sure the poor customer service can be chalked up to the business of the festival weekend it seems to me that a hotel that is directly beside the festival grounds would be staffed for the occasion. Overall the hotel seemed short-staffed and the staff appeared stressed. Whatever the reason I am unsure if I will stay here again.

Note: parking rates are additional to room rates unless included in a package. This is common around Crown Center.

Update: I received an email, followed by a phone call, from the manager of this hotel within a week of my review. We spoke at length about my stay and the problems we experienced. While the manager acknowledged that the hotel was very busy due to the festival that was going on she also said that the lack of customer service was unacceptable. I truly appreciate that the hotel contacted me directly and is working very hard to rectify the problems we experienced.

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Raglan Road Irish Pub, Kansas City, Missouri

The Raglan Road website gives a great visual of the pub being built in Ireland and "plunked down" in the US. Of course they are talking about the first Raglan Road in Orlando. They did the same thing with the Kansas City pub- you can even see how right here. Just go back through the archives.

The pub's two bars were hand crafted from salvaged materials found in Ireland- some from past pubs. The wood shines, the bottles stacked behind the bar sparkle and the atmosphere makes you want to dance a ceili in entry.

We visited Raglan Road for the traditional Irish breakfast they were serving during Irish Fest. It was almost like being in Ireland again. It was delish! And, according to Tir na Blog, the inside guide to the KC Irish Fest:

In other Raglan Road news, that delicious traditional Irish breakfast they served Irish Fest weekend, the one my mother raved about, is now a regular feature on weekends from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

My cousin, who was a bit put off by the thought of black pudding, pronounced it "really good". Will they have the rest of their amazing breakfast menu? I'm not sure. But I can totally vouch for the French Toast with berry compote and fresh cream. Oh. My. Gosh. Yummy.

If you can't make it for breakfast Raglan Road has a wonderful dinner menu. I wish I had remembered to take my camera along because the presentation was beautiful. The Scallop Forest appetizer was presented on the tines of forks, the Not Bleedin' Chowder was filled with huge chunks of seafood, the Salmon of Knowledge looked good enough for me to eat it (and I don't like salmon) and the Sod the Stew was presented in a small cauldron.

Of course we weren't hungry after eating that but we couldn't resist the Bread & Butter pudding and the Bailey's Creme Brule Tart. Both were incredible. Truly, there are no words to describe how good they were.

Next time you're in Kansas City head downtown and take in Raglan Road Irish Pub. Whether you enjoy their breakfast or dinner- or skip the food altogether and just head in for a pint and the live music- it's as close to Ireland as you're likely to get in the middle of the US.

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