Another year has come and gone. 2025 was a challenging year for me. I made a commitment to blog often but life had other plans. As some of you know, I’ve been undergoing cancer treatment. I am doing much better and regaining my strength each day. I am grateful for life and all the little things.
This year, I hope to blog more often and be consistent. I’ll be coming up on 2 years of blogging in a few days. I plan to continue sharing my adventures and things I come across.
There’s so many things I plan to do this year, but the biggest of them, is ensuring that I am healthy to do them.
Thank you to everyone who has read my blog, left encouraging comments, and supported me in any way.
I wish everyone a happy 2026. May this be your best year yet, and may good things come to you.
It’s been a while since I’ve been around this corner of the internet.
I mentioned in previous post that I have been having some health issues. Unfortunately, over a month ago ( 2 days after my birthday), I was diagnosed with cancer.
I have started treatment, and I am doing okay so far. I have a long journey ahead of me, but I am trusting that I will be fine at the end of everything.
Maybe I will have more time to blog and visit all of your blogs. If you don’t see me around, at least you know why.
Thank you to everyone who has interacted with this blog in one way or another.
I’m starting a new segment called Throwback Travel to share about places I’ve visited in the past. There are a few trips I haven’t written about yet, and this feels like the perfect way to look back and document them.
Last May (2024), we visited Orlando. It was my second time in the city.
Getting There
We flew direct from St. Louis, a smooth 2.5-hour flight. After landing, we rented a car since our plans were spread out across the area.
Orlando is best known for Disney World, but this wasn’t a Disney trip. I didn’t have the time to do it right, and I feel like if you’re going to Disney, you should go just for that.
We stayed on International Drive, which is a central spot with easy access to major roads, parks, restaurants, and attractions. Since we got in late, we stayed in that evening.
Day 1: Cocoa Beach and ICON Park
This was a beach day. Since Orlando doesn’t have beaches, we drove about an hour to Cocoa Beach. The weather was perfect. We found a quieter area, rented an umbrella and chairs, and spent the morning lounging and swimming. It was peaceful until more people started showing up by late morning.
Cocoa Beach. Photo Credit: City Odyssey
After a few hours, we headed to the Cocoa Beach Pier, which was much livelier. We grabbed food and drinks at a restaurant (don’t remember the name), then drove back to Orlando in the early evening.
Cocoa Beach Pier. Photo Credit: City OdysseyCocoa Beach Pier. Photo Credit: City Odyssey
That night, we went to ICON Park. It has rides, restaurants, music, and shops. We started with the Ferris wheel, which gave us a nice view of the city. I love a good Ferris wheel. Afterward, we wandered around, listened to a DJ, browsed shops, and got some acai bowls before heading back to the hotel.
ICON Park. Photo Credit: City OdysseyICON Park. Photo Credit: City Odyssey
Day 2: Lake Eola and a Soccer Match
We started the day at Lake Eola Park for the swan boat ride. While in line, I chatted with a woman who offered me two free tickets. I tried to pay her, but she wouldn’t accept. It was such a kind surprise.
Lake Eola Park. Photo Credit: City Odyssey
The boats were fun but harder to steer than expected. We kept going in the wrong direction at first, but eventually got it. We circled the fountain and enjoyed the view from the water. After the ride, we grabbed gelato and walked the park. There was a protest happening nearby with some police presence, so we left to be safe.
That evening, we went to a NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League) match between Orlando Pride and Bay FC. Orlando won 1–0. It was great to see some of my favorite players like Marta, Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, and Asisat Oshoala. After the game, we headed back to the hotel.
Inter & Co Stadium. Photo Credit: City OdysseyInter & Co Stadium. Photo Credit: City OdysseyInter & Co Stadium. Photo Credit: City Odyssey
Day 3: Heading Home
We had a slow morning, packed up, dropped off the rental car, and made our way to the airport.
It was a short trip, but packed with great moments. Even without Disney, Orlando had a lot to offer—beaches, local attractions, good food, and live sports. A fun and memorable weekend.
Back in January, I rang in the new year with cheerful wishes and a promise to post more often. And then—bam—life happened. The months since have been a whirlwind. Between the chaos in the world and an unexpected health setback, it’s been a real journey. But I’m finally finding my footing again and wanted to pick up where I left off.
There are still so many blogs I need to catch up on, and I’m genuinely excited to reconnect with all of you. Here’s to smoother days ahead, and hopefully, a hitch-free rest of the year.
I’ve been revisiting my half-finished thoughts and memories, and soon they’ll be ready for you to read.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend—stay well, friends!
Although it’s a bit late, I still want to extend my heartfelt wishes for the New Year. I hope everyone is doing well and that things are going wonderfully on your end.
I’ll be coming up on a year of blogging in a couple of weeks. There’s nothing like the realization that you’re paying for a service to motivate you to make the most of it. Recently, I came across a poem by Midwest Mary about the importance of making changes, and it really struck a chord with me. It inspired me to step up my game and strive to be better.
Reflecting on the past year, I wasn’t a terrible blogger, but I also wasn’t an exceptional one. I averaged about one post a month, which was my initial goal considering my other obligations.
As we embark on another year of blogging, I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to make more posts, remain consistent, build a strong community, and actually utilize my WordPress subscription.
I’ve already had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people through this platform, and I look forward to continuing our interactions throughout the year.
This year, I’m excited to share more of my adventures, both new and old. Cheers to another year of blogging, growth, and community!
I received an email about an opening night at one of my favorite galleries, Houska Gallery, where two artists were having their opening night. I was not familiar with either of their work but I was excited to go nonetheless. I read up on their bios so I knew what to expect. Alice LaChance, a St. Louis local had an exhibit called Walking City, whose work features bold graphics of landscape and meditations. Her clients include David Beckham, NASA, Google and Estee Lauder!
Alice LaChance Artwork. Photo credit: City OdysseyAlice LaChance Artwork. Photo credit: City Odyssey
The second artist was Kurt Herrmann, an Appalachia- based artist whose exhibit was titled Crispy Cloud. His work is influenced by color, landscape and his surroundings in Appalachia. Some of his work has been featured in various museums around the world. I briefly spoke with him about a piece called Pancake. He was very pleasant and took his time to explain his thought process. The gallery was teeming with visitors and chatter and excitement. I can honestly say they had a wonderful opening night.
Kurt Herrmann Artwork. Photo credit: City OdysseyKurt Herrmann Artwork. Photo credit: City Odyssey
Unbeknownst to me, the gallery across the street also had an opening night. I knew where I was heading after leaving Houska Gallery. I crossed the street and headed to Duane Reed Gallery.I did not have enough time to research the artists exhibiting, but I was happy to browse around and learn more. This was my first time visiting Duane Reed Gallery. Whenever I walk by it is usually closed so I was glad to explore.
Duane Reed Gallery Artwork. Photo credit: City OdysseyDuane Reed Gallery Artwork. Photo credit: City Odyssey
When I left Duane Reed Gallery, I knew there was something else I needed to do. I started walking to a section of CWE that I do not normally go to. I kept walking and told myself I was going to turn around if I didn’t see anything else.I made a mental note to turn around by a tree that was lit up with string lights.As soon as I approached the tree, I saw a man standing outside a door. Wouldn’t you know it, I was at the entrance of another art gallery called Square One Gallery .I guess you could say the art was calling me becauseI had no idea there was a gallery down that way.I walked to the 2nd floor and indeed there was an art exhibit by a Miami- based artist, Dan Alva. His exhibit was called Something out of Nothing. According to his bio, his style incorporates classics and repurposes them for newer audiences. I browsed around and saw some cool pieces.After a while, I decided to leave and head home.
Dan Alva Artwork. Photo credit: City OdysseyDan Alva Artwork. Photo credit: City Odyssey
I left feeling fulfilled after having experienced three different galleries all in the span of one evening.There’s something about admiring, studying and experiencing different types or art that makes me happy.
I caught the tail end of the Wentzville Fall Festival. As I’ve mentioned before, I enjoy attending festivals and community events. This was my second year attending the Wentzville Fall Festival. The festival was held in downtown Wentzville on Friday September 13th and Saturday September 14th , 2024.
Unfortunately, due to other obligations, I was only able to go on Saturday towards the end of the festivities.
Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit : City OdysseyWentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit : City Odyssey
Much like last year, they had various vendors operating food, drinks, small businesses, crafts and services.My first stop was at the Dogs on Duty stand where I got to pet an adorable dog called Timmy. The organization is dedicated to supporting working dogs. According to their site, “Dogs On Duty has provided cooling vests, GPS tracking collars, and mukluks for search and rescue k9 teams.” I think this is amazing work and working dogs deserve the support and recognition for their service.You can learn more about this organization here : Dogs On Duty .
Dogs on Duty. Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit : City Odyssey
My next stop was a charming honey stand. I struck up a conversation with the owner of Twin Spruce Farms in Warrenton, Missouri, who enlightened me about the honey harvesting process. His knowledge of all things honey was impressive, and he was genuinely pleasant to chat with. As a tea lover, honey is an essential ingredient for me.
Twin Spruce Farms & Olea Estates Stand. Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit : City Odyssey
To the side of his stand, I noticed some honey harvested in Greece. He shared that his son-in-law’s family has operated a farm there for centuries. I ended up buying Wildflower Honey from Twin Spruce Farms (local) and Orange Honey from Olea Estates (harvested in Greece). Olea Estates boasts a rich history and also offers products like vinegar, olive oil, and herbs. You can learn more about their products here: Olea Estates.
Did you know that the flavor of honey is influenced by the type of flowers the bees pollinate? For instance, I purchased honey with an orange flavor, which the bees developed by pollinating orange trees. I found this fascinating.
I took a picture of the honey at home with better lighting .Photo Credit : City Odyssey
Next, we made our way to the stage where the party cover band Push the Limit was performing. They played an array of popular songs from artists like Bruno Mars, Whitney Houston, and Lady Gaga. The kids were having a blast, dancing near the stage and truly getting into the groove. The band was fantastic, creating an electric atmosphere that perfectly complemented the festival vibes. Push the Limit is available for event bookings: Push the Limit Band | The Midwest’s Ultimate Party Band.
Push the Limit Band. Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit : City Odyssey
As the festival was winding down, we decided to make our exit. Our path led us past a guitar stand that was advertising guitar lessons, instruments and accessories. I chatted with the owner and inquired about taking up some guitar lessons.
Novak Music. Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit: City Odyssey
From there, we meandered over to Friendship Brewery. It’s a place I’ve been meaning to visit countless times, and since it was just steps away, we couldn’t resist. We tried some non-alcoholic beers and enjoyed the evening breeze. After our drinks, we decided it was time to head home.
Friendship Brewery. Wentzville Fall Festival 2024 Photo Credit: City Odyssey
As we left the festival, we saw a man carting off some merchandise. I looked closely and saw they were hair accessories he was packing up in his vehicle. I asked about them and he told me they were for his wife. She runs an Etsy store called AndiePinkBoutique – Etsy.
If you feel inclined, please check out the small businesses and organizations highlighted in this blog. I try to support as many small businesses as possible. I’m glad I went to the festival and ushered in the fall.
How is your Fall/ Autumn going? If you’re in a different part of the world, how is the current season going for you?
Guess who went to the annual Greek Festival in my city and didn’t take any pictures? Me! I was so busy queuing up for delicious food that I totally forgot. I’m such a terrible blogger, but I’ll do better next time!
I attended the 107th Annual Labor Day Greek Festival during Labor Day weekend with my partner. The festival took place from August 31st to September 2nd. It was held at the St. Nicholas Orthodox Greek Orthodox Church in the Central West End neighborhood. The festival is held annually to celebrate Greek culture. The weekend was filled with authentic Greek food, live music, dance performances and church tours. The event was free and open to the entire community.
The weather was perfect for an outdoor festival. As soon as we arrived at the church, it was clear that the turnout was fantastic. People were everywhere, enjoying the festivities. We went to queue for food in a space that had been transformed into a food hall. We ordered lamb shank and pilaf (Greek-style braised lamb shank with special sauce served over rice pilaf). We also ordered a gyro sandwich, a Greek salad, Grecian fries, and spanakopita (a pastry made with sheets of filo dough layered with savory spinach and cheese filling).
I was impressed by the young people who were helping with various tasks in the food hall. The hall was filled with different kinds of people and there was a strong sense of community. Everyone seemed to be having a good time, eating, drinking and chatting away. This is one of the reasons why I enjoy festivals and events. I like seeing people relaxed and having a good time.
After we left the food hall, we attempted to tour the church. Unfortunately, we arrived a bit too late and the tours had already ended. We headed outside and soaked in the lively atmosphere and enjoyed the band playing vibrant Greek music. With America being such a melting pot, it is always a joy to experience and share in cultures that are different from our own.
After enjoying the music and resisting the delicious aroma of the kebobs grilling nearby, it was time for us to leave. We decided to take a stroll to Forest Park across the road and found a shady spot near the lake. We enjoyed our delicious Greek food while relaxing and taking in the beautiful surroundings. It was the perfect way to end the day.
What are some festivals or cultural events you have recently attended? I’d like to hear about them.
I did a bit of traveling during the first half of the year. In late February, I went to Miami to meet a dear friend who was stopping there on their way to Mexico. Having visited Miami twice before, I was excited to return and see how this trip would differ. Along with meeting my friend, some of my family members were also coming to Miami from another city, making it a mini family trip of sorts.
I arrived late and settled in. We stayed right by the water at the Mondrian South Beach, and the views were amazing. We were close enough to the city to enjoy its vibrancy but far enough to experience some peace and quiet. Miami can get super busy at night with all the nightlife going on.
The following day, we got ready and headed to brunch. We chose a restaurant called Salt Cafe Miami Beach, with an outdoor seating area right by one of the busy streets. Here, we listened to music and people-watched while enjoying our meal. I ordered a delicious Mediterranean omelet and a glass of orange juice.
Photo Credit: City Odyssey
After brunch, we headed to the bay and rented a yacht for a few hours to spend some time on the water. I love being on the water, and this was a fun, relaxing way to see the city. We spent the afternoon catching up with our friend, whom we hadn’t seen in over 15 years. It was great reminiscing about old memories.
Photo Credit: City Odyssey
When our time on the water came to an end, we returned to our hotel, which had an outdoor restaurant by the water. We took in the sights, chatted some more, and ordered an early dinner. We enjoyed an outdoor dinner at the Baia Beach Club.
Photo Credit: City Odyssey
After dinner, we headed upstairs to rest after an eventful day.
The next morning, we drove around Little Havana before making our way to the airport. I said goodbye to my family and made my way to my gate. It was a sweet and short trip, but I’m glad I got the chance to see my friend and spend time with my family.
I recently visited the new Topgolf in St. Louis – Midtown with friends. This is the second Topgolf location to open in Missouri, with the first being in Chesterfield, Missouri, about 30 minutes away from St. Louis. The Midtown location is a perfect addition for those who live closer to the city.
We had a midday reservation on a Saturday. Getting there was fairly easy, and I was pleasantly surprised to find ample parking. If you know anything about Topgolf, it tends to get rather busy on the weekends.
Our check-in process was seamless, and we made our way to our reserved bay on the 3rd floor. Since it is summer, you could definitely feel the warm air in the bay area. The bay area is open on both ends, making it virtually impossible to have air-conditioning. However, there were some huge fans that kept us cool.
The setup at Topgolf is fantastic, with each bay equipped with comfortable seating, a table, and a touchscreen monitor to track your scores. The golf balls are microchipped, so you can see exactly where your shots land on the screen. This makes it easy to keep track of your progress and adds a fun, competitive element to the game.
Our waiter was pleasant and suggested some great options for shareable foods for groups. We ordered cheesy macaroni bites, wings, fries, chicken bacon ranch flatbread, and some drinks. The food was brought out on time, and everything tasted great. We played various games, including the classic Topgolf game where you aim for different targets to score points, and some of the more challenging games that test your accuracy and distance. The variety of games available ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can have a great time.
We played golf for the duration of our two-hour reservation and really enjoyed the experience. It was nice to get a group of friends together for an afternoon of golf and food. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing in the background and other groups cheering each other on.
When our reservation was up, we went to an indoor bar and seating area, which was much cooler. We sat there, cooled down, and chatted for a bit before heading out to the parking lot. It was a fun day, and I’d definitely recommend this location.
Tips:
Make sure you have a reservation, although walk-ins are welcome.
During warmer months, try to schedule your reservation earlier in the day or late in the afternoon/evening when it’s cooler.
You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy Topgolf. The games are designed to be fun for all skill levels.
City Odyssey 