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Tag Archives: glass

Buckeye Winery in Newark, Ohio

25 June 202122 September 2024

Passing through Newark on my way home from Pennsylvania, I stopped by Buckeye Winery to pick up a couple of bottles of fruit wine and slushie mix.  I had visited a couple of months prior after shopping at the Canal Market, a short distance away.

Stepping into the shop, the décor made me feel as though I had been transported to a charming Italian vineyard with a seating area to enjoy a glass of wine. The shop within the winery is extensive with all wine-related items.

The winery makes wines using the finest juices outsourced from premium grape producers around the world.  From Chardonnay to Zinfandel and fruit wines in between, Buckeye Winery offers one of the widest selections of Ohio-made wines in the state. (See the list and pricing below from the date of my visit.)

Scanning through nearly fifty wine options, I couldn’t decide if I wanted to purchase a glass or a bottle of wine.  When I noticed they offered wine slushies, I couldn’t resist.

Another service Buckeye Winery offers is the ability to make your own wine by booking a session with the winemakers.  The result is close to 30 bottles of wine from the grape/fruit juice you select with specialty labels of your choosing.

On Saturday nights, the winery offers free entertainment where you can come together over homemade pizzas and cheese plates.  And of course, there’s wine.

What to See and What to Do:

Buckeye Winery
25 North 3rd Street
Newark, OH  43055
Telephone:  740 788 9463

Open Tues to Thurs from 12 – 7
Fri & Sat from 12 – 9

The list of wines and pricing per bottle may have changed. They offer 50 cent tastings and offer their wines $5 per glass.  Please contact their website for updates.

Reds: 

  • Luna Rossa – Harvest Moon – $14
  • Montepulciano – Jack’s MP – $14
  • Merlot – Cardinal Red – $16
  • Shiraz – Kanga* – $14
  • Cabernet Shiraz – Aussie – $14
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Red River – $14
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot – Trio – $14
  • Malbec* – $14
  • Zinfandel (dry red) – Tecumseh – $14
  • Pinot Noir – Ruby Red – $14
  • Chianti – Buckeye Red – $14
  • Sweet Red – Bourgeron Rouge – $12
  • Cherry – $12
  • Plum – $12

Whites: 

  • Chardonnay (unoaked) – Whitetail – $16
  • Pinot Grigio – Trillium – $14
  • Sauvignon Blanc – $14
  • Gewurztraminer – Intrigue – $14
  • Luna Bianca – Moonrise (oaked) – $14
  • Libfraumilch – Farmboy – $14
  • Riesling – Buckeye White – $16
  • Farmer’s Daughter (Sweet Wine) – $12
  • Moscato – $12

Blush: 

  • White Merlot – Satisfaction – $12
  • White Zinfandel – Celebration – $12
  • Pink Moscato – $12

Sparkling Wines (available by the bottle only):

  • Sparkling Watermelon – $15
  • Sparkling Acai Raspberry – $15
  • Sparkling Green Apple – $15
  • Sparkling Root Beer – $16.50
  • Sparkling Liebfraumilch – $16.50
  • Sparkling Moscato – $16.50

Fruit (Sweet) Wines:

  • CranApple – Holiday CranApple – $11
  • Green Apple – Forbidden – $11
  • Kiwi Pear – Nature’s Wonder – $11
  • Peach Apricot – Afternoon Delight – $11
  • White Cranberry – $11
  • Strawberry – Sweet Summertime – $11
  • Watermelon – $11
  • Acai Raspberry – Razzle Dazzle – $11
  • Blackberry – Brambles – $11
  • Blueberry – Berry Blue – $11
  • Cranberry – $11
  • Pomegranate Wildberry – Eternity – $11
  • Sangria – $11
  • Wildberry – $11
  • Apple Pie – $14
  • Cotton Candy – $14
    • Try this mixed with strawberries!
  • Maple Wine – $14
  • Pumpkin Pie – $14
  • Jalapeno Wine – $14
  • Bloody Mary with 1/2 Jalapeno Wine – $5

Dessert Wines – $6 per glass and 75 cent tastings

  • Cabernet Franc Ice Wine – Red Ice – $21
  • Riesling Ice Wine – Buckeye Ice – $21
  • Port – Sweet Harbor – $12
  • Coffee Port – $15.50
  • Caramel Port – $15.50
  • Chocolate,  Raspberry Port – Sweet Holiday Harbor – $15.50
  • Raspberry Mocha Port – $15.50

Wine Slushies are $5 per glass!

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The Bellagio, Las Vegas

5 March 201921 September 2024

I clearly remember the first time I stood in amazement of The Bellagio was when a friend of mine brought us here for dinner.  He had just married a couple of months ago at this stunning, luxury resort and shared photos of their extravagant wedding celebration.  Of course, he spared no expense, so the photos of their wedding were beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

I eventually had the opportunity to make my own memories at the Bellagio during a New Years’ celebration with another dear friend this year and found myself basking in the beauty of its opulence and luxury.    Located along the strip, the Bellagio is one of the most luxurious resorts of Las Vegas.

We tried to find a seat at Lago by Julian Serrano which provides excellent views of the famous Fountains of the Bellagio.  Unfortunately, we had arrived too late, and settled for a gorgeous view along the 8-acre lake, reminiscent of Italian lakeside village.

As crowds congregated along the sidewalk, the thousand theatrical fountains began their show to the tune of a classical Italian opera, both elegant and spectacular.

Entering the lobby of the resort, we admired the glass flowers of world renowned artist, Dale Chihuly.  The sculpture, hanging from the ceiling, is made of over 2000 handblown blossoms.  Named the Fiori Di Como, the effervescent colors seem to come to life as the sunlight radiates through the glass and windows from the rooftop.

The Bellagio’s Gallery of Fine Art and the lavish Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden are additional glamorous features of the hotel on display for guests and visitors.

I had my heart set on a confection from Jean Philippe Patisserie but when we arrived, we were so overwhelmed by the many choices that we decided on a café mocha for an afternoon boost.  We promised ourselves that we would save room after dinner which would leave us plenty of time to decide on which sweet decadence would satisfy our craving.   Did I happen to notice some wedding cakes in the corner?

Because Peter had not seen Cirque du Soleil’s “O” performance, he booked tickets for us for the evening show.  The first time I had visited Vegas, my former boss had purchased tickets and I was mesmerized by the performance and more astonished by the price.  The show continues to be one of the most sought after shows in Vegas, but we were so excited to share this experience together.

Soon the show would begin and since we were dressed and ready to go, we enjoyed a happy hour drink at Hyde Bellagio.  The swanky, upscale lounge is also a perfect location to watch the Bellagio fountains, and reminds me of a set used for a Victoria’s Secret photo shoot.   Surrounded by gigantic mirrors, chandeliers with suspended flowers and Mediterranean furniture, we took a seat close to the balcony.

The evening could not have been more perfect ending with a return visit to Jean Philippe for gelatos and walking the upscale promenade of shops.  The show was phenomenal, dinner was indulgent, drinks were relaxing and the company was incredibly charming.  It was a fairytale day at the Italian lake of Vegas.

Have you visited the Bellagio?  I would love to hear your thoughts about this opulent hotel and casino, so leave your comments below!  Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV  89109
Telephone:  888 987 6667

Where to Stay:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV  89109
Telephone:  888 987 6667

Where to Eat:

Jean Philippe Patisserie
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV  89109

UPDATE:  The Jean Philippe Patisserie is now closed.

Photo Credit:  Hyde Bellagio provided by The Bellagio

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Catching Up with Cats at the Divine Felines Exhibit, Cincinnati

15 September 201616 September 2024

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Having just visited the Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art, I was excited to learn that the Cincinnati Art Museum would be showcasing their own Egyptian display titled “Divine Felines”.  Presenting artifacts from Egypt with a cat theme, I could not wait to make the trek down to Cincinnati to learn more about the ancient domestication of my favorite animal.

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Recumbent Lion, Ptolomaic Period, 305 – 35BC, Reportedly from Giza

Cats, both domestic and wild, played an important role in the every day lives of the ancient Egyptians representing symbols of protection, fertility, beauty and sexuality.  For example, the resting lion symbolized the country’s tranquility as well as the confidence and power of the king.   Stones or glass were embedded into the eyes of the sculptures to show the watchful nature of the mysterious feline.

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Lion shaped furniture leg, during the reign of Aspelta, 690-664 BC

According to archaeologists, the ancient Egyptians were the first to use the image of cats as elements of architectural design. Cats and lions were found carved in items that were used on a daily basis to include furniture, weapons and cosmetic items.

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Fragmentary Inscription, Dynasty 25 – Dynasty 26, 670 – 650 BC

Pictures and paintings of lions were a common theme in Egyptian hieroglyphs.  At least four images of lions were utilized as one of many animal shapes represented in hieroglyphic designs. These shapes include the standing lion, recumbent lion, full-bodied lion, the forepart lion which included its front legs and head as well as the hind parts of the lion (its legs and tail).

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Sculptor’s Model Bust of a Lion, Ptolomaic Period

The Egyptians were fascinated by the prowess of the lions, their ferocity and ability to move quickly. Considered positive qualities that were often used to describe Egyptian gods and Pharaohs, these characteristics were the primary attributes that symbolized their divinity and royal standing.

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Necklace with Bes and Taweret Pendants, Dynasty 18, 1539 – 1292 BC

Jewels made into the likeness of Bes, the goddess of fertility and protection, were worn by women of child-bearing age or during their pregnancy.  These trinkets were used to ensure the safe-keeping of the child until birth.  Bes was depicted as a man with a lion’s head and tail.   The images also took on the form of a lioness or a woman with a lion’s head, representing the daughter of Ra, the Sun god.

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Roman Period, 1st Century Reportedly from Saqqara, Egypt

Tutu was the male equivalent of Bes, taking the form of a pacing sphinx with the tail of a snake.  He was known for protecting the dead in the Afterworld and for taking charge of one’s fate.

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Coffin of a Cat, Late Period, Dynasty 26 – Dynasty 31, 664 BC- 332 BC, or later

The Sarcophagus of a cat mummy showed the importance of cats as pets to the ancient Egyptians.  According to the placard, “Most cat mummies were buried in either rectangular or cat shaped coffins made of wood. Carved from costly limestone and decorated with scenes that typically appear on coffins of humans, this sarcophagus may have belonged to a pet cat.  A scene on the shorter side to your left shows the deceased cat in front of an offering table, flanked by the goddesses Isis and Nephthys.  Isis protectively spreads her wings around one of the longer sides of the sarcophagus.”

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Roundel, 5th Century BC, depicting dogs as pets

Just as cats were highly regarded by the Egyptians as both pets and deities, dogs and jackals also had a place in the lives of the ancient Egyptians.  The dog’s ability to protect its territory and their loyalty to their owners were attributes that were important to the rulers.  Evidence of dogs as pets can be traced back to the 5th millennium BC.

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In addition to Tutu, there were several dog deities including Wepwewat, a god that would lead the dead through the passages of the Underworld and provided them protection.  The name means “Opener of the Ways” and comes from the dog’s keen sense of smell and its ability to escape danger.

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Anubia was another dog deity that was so named due to the dog’s extreme sense of smell.  He was responsible for protecting the deceased in the Underworld.

According to the museum, a fragment on display “represents Anubia lying on the top of shrines, coffins, or canopic chests, which were boxes containing jars with the internal organs of the deceased.” It was difficult to determine if the figures were those of dogs or jackals, as both were portrayed as black.

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Even as late as the 2nd Century when Rome ruled over Egypt, the influence of Egyptian gods were present in the carvings of the Roman-Egyptian cities.  As depicted in the funerary stela of C. Julius Valerius, the Egyptian god Horus and the Roman-Greco god Nemesis were present as well as the dog, representing either Anubis or Wepwawet.  Just as in the Egyptian culture, the dog led and guarded the deceased through the Afterworld.

It was not surprising that the characteristics of both cats and dogs were highly admired by the Egyptians.  Independent or loyal, swift or sassy, the importance of these furry friends continues even into today’s culture.

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In addition to the Egyptian exhibit, I learned the museum was hosting a “Modern Cats” collection.  With over 20 pieces on display, the artwork was added to demonstrate the “lasting appeal of the domestic feline”.   I enjoyed exploring the cat-themed pieces proving that even today, cats are an important part of our global culture.

Which attributes of your pet also resemble your character? Are you surprised that the Egyptian culture developed a fondness for cats in their religion and everyday lives?  I would love to hear your thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum to check out the Divine Felines Exhibit.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 721 2787

  • Admission Fee: General Admission is Free.  Special Event Ticket Pricing is $12 for Adults, $6 for Seniors (60+), Students and Children (6-17) and children under 5 are FREE.  Exhibit hours on Thursday from 5 PM- 8 PM is free.  Contact the museum’s website for holiday closures.
  • Hours:  Open Tuesday – Sunday from 11AM to 5PM; Closed Monday and open Thursdays from 11AM to 8PM.  Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
  • Amenities:  Terrace Cafe, Mary R. Schiff Library, museum shop, Rosenthal Educational Center, gallery map and guides and MyCAM  Art Hunts
  • Length of Visit:  1 to 2 hours, or additional time for special exhibits
  • Tips for Your Visit: Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm that the museum is open, as it may be closed for special events.

Where to Stay:

Millennium Hotel Cincinnati
150 W. 5th Street
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 352 2100

Where to Eat:

Mt. Adams Bar and Grill
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 621 3666

I ordered the Fried Jalapeno Ravioli served with marinara sauce.

What to Eat: 

  • Skyline Chili:  My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce.  I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out.  Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese.  Additional toppings include onions and beans.
  • LaRosa’s Pizza:  A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce.  My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
  • Graeter’s Ice Cream:  It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich.  Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
  • Montgomery Inn BBQ:  Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience.  Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals.  Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
  • Glier’s Goetta:  While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy.  Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
  • BonBonerie:  One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 421 2337

Books to Read: 

  • Eligible:  A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • Running, by J.T. Cooper
  • Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
  • Beloved, by Toni Morrison
  • Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
  • Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

  • The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
    • Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline.  Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
    • The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
  • General James Taylor Park
    • Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
  • Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
    • Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
  • The Fountain at Fountain Square
    • For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
  • Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
  • Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
  • Carew Tower Observation Deck
    • Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
  • Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
    • One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
  • Cincinnati Observatory Center
  • Krohn Conservatory
  • Great American Ball Park
    • Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
  • Devou Park
    • The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
  • Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
    • Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
  • Riverfront Park
    • The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
  • American Sign Museum
    • Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

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Figurine of a Cat during the Late Period Dynasty 26 – Dynasty 31, 664-332 BC or later

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Modern Cat Exhibit

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Modern Cat Exhibit

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About Me!

I have had a passion to travel for as long as I can remember and landed my dream job at the age of 19 on a cruise ship. The Suite Life of Travel is about those experiences as well as my future endeavor to explore this amazing world!

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