After four great days in Phoenix it was time to travel north toward the scenic views of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Neither Zach nor I had ever been to the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, so we were ready to go into the great wide open. Sedona, AZ After driving through the brilliant scenery from Phoenix to Sedona we stopped at the Red Rock Cafe for a light lunch. Originally, the plan was to drive through Sedona, but Zach’s Aunt Margie convinced us to stop and hunt for the famed energy vortexes. We started at Bell Rock, said to be one of the strongest vortexes. The beginning of the climb was uneventful, but about halfway up the base of the rock, my hands and feet started to tingle (also a side effect of Lyme, but this was different). I felt a surge of energy and was able to keep climbing. We started at Bell Rock, said to be one of the strongest vortexes. The beginning of the climb was uneventful, but about halfway up the base of the rock, my hands and feet started to tingle (also a side effect of Lyme, but this was different). I felt a surge of energy and was able to keep climbing. We found "Meditation Rock" and I sat quietly to soak up the view. Despite the energy from the vortex, the climb eventually became too challenging (and potentially dangerous), so we turned around and hiked down the hill. But I wanted to experience the feeling again, so we decided to go to the Airport Vortex. The Airport Vortex is where we saw the most twisted tree, said to grow that way because of the energy. Again, halfway up the climb I felt a surge of energy. This time I really did feel invincible. We sat on top of the butte and looked out over Sedona. We were about a hundred feet in the air, but I wasn’t the least bit scared. The view from the Airport Vortex was breathtaking and the clouds seemed to be being sucked into the energy of Bell Rock. We drove from Sedona to the Grand Canyon area and checked into our hotel. We drove out the the canyon with enough time to glimpse at it before the sun set. There was a flood of people to the restaurants from the lookout points, so we ended up grabbing appetizers at a bar and going back the hotel. The short glimpse at the canyon, made us excited for the day ahead. The Grand Canyon, AZ We woke up bright and early on a crisp early spring Arizona morning. We made to the Canyon and found a place to park. The elk were grazing in the grassy patches of the parking lot, not phased by the hundreds of people pouring into the park. We ate breakfast and started our hike. The plan was to hike the Kaibab trail. The park ranger told us it was one of the easier descents into the canyon with some of the most spectacular views. He was half right. The views were spectacular, but it was not an easy hike. Going down into the canyon there were areas where we were (in my opinion) dangerously close to the edge. We slipped many times on the gravel path. But it was completely worth it. We made it to "Ooh Aah Point," about three quarters of a mile into the canyon. Ooh Aah Point was our original goal, but we wanted to keep going. We made it about another half mile, until the path got a little too treacherous for me. The climb up was difficult and I had to take many breaks, but it was truly a spectacular experience. From there we needed some sustenance and a small break, so we ate at the Market Plaza Deli. Then we took the bus all the way to Hermit's rest, the farthest point of the south ridge of the canyon. We got out along the way to take pictures of different views. We stayed though sunset and watched the light cut across the canyon. The clouds were not as brilliant as I've seen in pictures, but there really are no words for experiencing the Grand Canyon for the first time. Bearizona On the way back to Phoenix before our departure we stopped along the way at Bearizona Wildlife Park. I was enticed by the opportunity to drive through paddocks of animals with no fences. We saw Mountain Goats: Baby Black Bears: A Baby White Buffalo: Black Bears: Donkeys: And a buffalo covered in grass: All the animals were rescued and not able to live in the wild. I liked that they had plenty of space to roam around. After Bearizona, we returned to Phoenix and spent time with Zach's aunt until our flight.
It's a trip I will cherish for the rest of my life. There is only one "first time" you see the Grand Canyon. "Happiness is not a station you arrive at, but a manner of traveling." - Margaret Lee
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When I planned our spring break getaway for this year I knew it had to be someplace for healing and renewal. So, what better place than sunny, warm, and dry Arizona (although it wasn’t any of those things for most of the trip, but we’ll get to that later)? We spent a little over half the trip in the Phoenix-area, mostly in Scottsdale. Then, we spent a few days at the Grand Canyon. Phoenix Day 1 Our plane landed at 6:40am, so after we picked up our rental car, a bright red Fiat 500 (because, why not?), we drove to DeSoto Central Market. I chose this place, because of a drink called Teaspressa, which I saw featured on Shark Tank. It’s tea brewed like coffee and crafted into latte drinks. It’s available at Tea and Toast Co., housed in DeSoto Central Market. Let me tell you it was worth the stop. Turns out tea brewed like coffee is pretty darn tasty. We also had a small breakfast and some time to rest and recover from the flight. Our next stop was the Japanese Friendship Garden, which was only a few blocks away from DeSoto Central Market. We arrived as the garden opened, so there were very few people there. As we made our way around the loop more people filtered in, but it didn’t take away from the experience. I would definitely recommended buying the Koi feed for $1. That alone provided an hour of entertainment. From there it was only a short distance to the Phoenix Public Market, a daily farmer’s market in the middle of downtown Phoenix. It was good to be in a place where most of the taste tests were gluten and dairy-free. We had lunch at the organic Cafe on site. From there we drove to Papago Park. I’d seen images online of the “Hole in the Rock” formation and wanted to see it for myself. It was an easy short hike up to the formation. Our top notch hotel let us check in early. I definitely recommend Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale. I mean look at the room. Mid-century modern paradise: Being up since 3am we took a catnap before dinner. After the rest we headed to dinner at Cien Agaves, a short walk from the hotel. Tacos, tacos, tacos. Then, what I’d been waiting for all day - “An Evening with Ana Gasteyer.” I’ve adored Ana Gasteyer ever since her start on SNL. People have said I look like her and I take it as the greatest compliment. I love all of her SNL characters from Martha Stewart to Celine Dion. When I found out she was going to be in Scottsdale the day we arrived, performing at a venue only a short walk from our hotel, I jumped on it. The show was FANTASTIC. Two hours of songs and stories. As expected, she was brilliant and hilarious. After the walk back to the hotel we crashed. It was a long day, but the perfect way start to our vacation. Phoenix Day 2 We woke up early hoping to beat the Easter brunch crowd, but still had a bit of a wait at Butterfield’s Pancake House. I loved the waffle lights. A major reason we chose Phoenix as our travel destination was spring training baseball. Zach is a huge Cubs fan, and while the Twins are my team, as a Chicagoan I back the Cubs as well. Sloan Park is a small, well-kept ballpark, bustling with Cubs fans, both transplants and travelers. Our seats were in the first base deck. In the middle of the game a swarm of bees attacked the center fielder and cleared some of the lawn seats. I got texts from friends asking if I was getting stung. Luckily, we were far away from the swarm. At one point Clark the Cub walked by our seats. I had to get a picture with him and Zach. The Cubs didn't have the best outing and lost to the Mariners 12-9, but it was a great experience. For dinner we hit up a local restaurant called Brat Haus. Their food consisted of many different sausages. It was nice to eat outside. The atmosphere trumped the delicious food with outdoor games, like giant jenga. And it was super dog friendly, so there were lots of four-legged friends roaming around. I took the chance to write on the giant chalk board wall. An end to another successful day. Phoenix Day 3 Road trip day started with breakfast at U.S. Egg. Another breakfast establishment with a gluten-free menu. We took the scenic drive toward the mountains from Scottsdale to Apache Junction. There we took a stop at Goldfield Ghost Town. A fun tourist trap with the backdrop of the Superstition Mountains. Fun fact, the Superstition Mountains are the 2nd most photographed landscape in Arizona. Second to The Grand Canyon. In the Ghost Town we took a tour of a brothel, took an epic old timey photo, and rode the train. We continued on the drive to Tortilla Flat, a tiny town with a population of 6. The drive is one of the most scenic in Arizona and we stopped along the way for many photo ops. It was a very twisty turny road, but Zach navigated it like a pro. Probably due to his mountain driving experience in Ireland. We ate lunch at the famous Superstition Saloon with bar stools made of saddles and dollar bills covering every inch of wall space in the restaurant. Good atmosphere, but very little food for spoonies. For dessert, we headed over to the General Store and had some famous Prickly Pear Gelato. It’s gelato made from the fruit of the Prickly Pear cactus. It was not Lyme Diet friendly, but I allowed myself the treat. How often do you get to eat gelato made from a cactus? In the evening we took a stroll around Scottsdale, past the Arabian Horse Fountain in the middle of a shopping district. We ate dinner at The Original Chop Shop Co., which quickly became my favorite meal spot of the trip. Then, we walked along the riverfront on the way back to the hotel. Ah, palm trees. We ended the evening with a lovely sunset. Phoenix Day 4 Our last day in the Phoenix area started out with breakfast at Daily Dose. From there is was onto Ponderosa Stables for a trail ride. I’ve always loved horses, but since childhood, never really rode one. We signed up for the hour long trail ride. When it came time to choosing horses, we made sure the wrangler knew we were beginners. One of my favorite moments from the trip was when they put Zach on a gigantic Clydesdale named R.J. My horse was a tall, white horse named Diamond. We held up the back of the line, because R.J. was the anchor. Diamond was a pretty slow old girl, but made me feel safe as we scaled up and down the rocky hills. I can’t wait to do it again. Maybe next time, on flat Illinois land. After the trial ride we took a break at the hotel before our next destination. We drove to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s southwest masterpiece. We took the hour and a half tour of the property and learned a lot about the life and architecture of FLW. For dinner, we met up with Zach’s aunt Margie, who calls Scottsdale home. She took us to a fabulous place called Tru Food Kitchen. The kitchen was exposed and you could see a ton of fresh fruit and vegetables. Then, it was back to the hotel to rest up and pack for our next destination, The Grand Canyon (look for future post). “We don’t have anything in common. You love horses. I don’t trust them. Their shoes are permanent. Who makes that kind of commitment to a shoe?” - Arthur Bach, Arthur (2011) Let’s face it. Our sweet home Chicago is not known for health food. We are much more famous for our hot dogs and gluttonous deep dish pizza. I recently visited Phoenix, Arizona and was thrilled by all the healthy, organic eateries there were to choose from. Let’s hope one day Chicago will be known as the healthy restaurant capital of the Midwest, but, in the meantime, here are 30 great options for you to try. This bucket list of “good for you” restaurants in the Chicago area features restaurants with options for the most common dietary restrictions gluten-free and dairy-free. Here’s to many more healthy places coming to Chicago in the near future. 1. The Amazing Kale Burger (741 Howard St, Evanston, IL 60202) The menu here is centered around, you guessed it, The Amazing Kale Burger, and that’s okay, because it is amazing. You can find the kale burger at farmer’s markets and small grocers, but I recommend visiting this great lunch counter in Evanston. Order a souped-up kale burger with a delicious organic, local side. Talk up the owner, he is super friendly and knowledgeable. 2. Amitabul (6207 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646) This Asian vegan restaurant is on every healthy Chicago food list out there. The menu features “healing noodle soups.” You don’t get much healthier than that. Located on the far Northwest side of the city in Norwood Park. 3. Be Leaf (29 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606) Most of the food at this salad restaurant in the loop is vegan and gluten-free. They also serve hormone-free meat and wrap. They have six homemade gluten-free, vegan salad dressings. Six! Plus you an feel good about what you are eating, because the company has a commitment to locally sourced food and sustainable practices. 4. Blind Faith Cafe (525 Dempster St, Evanston, IL 60201) A long standing vegetarian cafe in Evanston with tons of vegan and gluten-free options. You'll love the pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff. Blind Faith has a green restaurant certification for sustainable sourcing, composting, recycling, and conserving energy, among other things. 5. Cassava (3338 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657) Cassava is a dedicated gluten-free facility, which makes it a great option for people with celiac disease. The menu consists of gluten-free empanadas, cassava rolls, grass-fed beef chili, and smoothies. Get this, the cheese is also grass-fed and they only use coconut oil. Can't get to Lakeview? You can buy frozen empanadas at all Mariano's and many Whole Foods locations. 6. Chicago Raw (51 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654) Everything on this menu looks doggone amazing. Raw food is basically guaranteed to be healthy. Everything is 100% plant-based and uncooked. Go online and scroll through the menu. You will not believe so many delicious things can be made raw. 7. The Chicago Diner (3411 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657 and 2333 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647) Serving vegetarian food in Lakeview since 1983, the diner recently opened a second location in Logan Square. The Chicago Diner is synonymous with vegetarian food in Chicago. They also have a separate gluten-free menu. 8. Cookie Bar Gluten-Free Bakery (1746 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640) This Ravenswood bakery is as healthy as it can get with gluten-free and dairy-free options. Perfect for special occasions. Pick up a small treat or an entire cake. Birthday celebration here I come. 9. Defloured: A Gluten-Free Bakery (1477 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640) Similar to above, located in Andersonville. You can also buy their tasty flourless treats at many Whole Foods locations and other outlets. Can I have two birthday celebrations? 10. Earth’s Healing Cafe (1942 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613) Featuring organic superfood smoothies. The owners see their smoothies as medicinal and use no sweeteners, so it’s very good for those of us that try to eat sugar-free, as well. 11. Farmhouse Chicago (228 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654) and Farmhouse Evanston (703 Church St, Evanston, IL 60201) Both Farmhouse locations are perfect for a farm-to-table date night. Good ambiance and creative made-from-scratch recipes. Also, good for craft beer lovers. 12. Goddess and Grocer (6 Chicagoland locations) This healthy restaurant and catering business offers more soup options than you can shake a stick at. They have a soup calendar online with new soups daily. Also features sandwiches, salads, and desserts. 13. Green Zebra (1460 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642) An upscale vegetarian restaurant serving seasonal small plates. The focus is on locally produced, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. A good choice for a special occasion. 14. Handlebar (2311 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647) A restaurant described as serving vegan and vegetarian comfort food? I'm there. No designated gluten-free menu, but has gluten-free options. Surprisingly affordable for local, organic, food in Wicker Park. 15. Heartland Cafe (7000 N Glenwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60626) On a quiet street in Rogers Park you will find this cozy eatery. Great outdoor patio. The menu focuses on local, organic, and sustainable foods. Many gluten-free and vegetarian options. 16. I Dream of Falafel (3 Chicagoland locations) The falafel is a favorite among healthy eaters. The falafel here is made in house with organic chick peas. The menu is clearly marked with vegan, gluten-free, and organic options. 17. Karyn’s Raw Bistro & Karyn’s Cooked (1901 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614) Do yourself a favor and head on over to Karyn’s website and look at Karyn’s picture. She is 68 years old, but looks much younger. It’s one of the best testaments to healthy eating I have seen. She has both a raw and cooked vegan restaurant. 18. Little Goat Diner (820 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607) Just because you are eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to miss out on one of the most popular restaurants in Chicago. Little Goat has a separate gluten-free menu. 19. Loving Heart (838 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613) In the heart of Uptown is a sweet vegan cafe. Friendly service and lots of menu options for those with vegan and gluten-free restrictions. 20. Lula Cafe (2537 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 6064) A popular farm-to-table option in Logan Square. Upscale, but fair prices for local, organic fare. They list their local providers right on the website, so you know where your food comes from. 21. Lyfe Kitchen (5 Chicagoland locations) This is a national chain of healthy fast-ish food. They offer complete gluten-free and vegan menus, which have just as many choices as the regular menu. It makes it easy and affordable to eat healthy on the go. 22. Native Foods Cafe (4 Chicagoland locations) Another national chain, which features made from scratch vegan food. Gluten-free foods are listed on the menu. They also offer cooking demos, so you can learn to cook delicious vegan dishes at home. 23. Peach and Green (33 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603) With a tagline like “...for the love of good food...,” you can’t go wrong. They serve all-natural and locally sourced food. Gluten-free bread is available for sandwiches and they also have an array of raw juices and smoothies. 24. Protein Bar (13 Chicagoland locations) This now National chain started in Chicago with the goal of offering a healthy fast food alternative. The menu features protein filled salads, wraps, and bowls. Also, offers out of this world juices and smoothies. 25. Range (1119 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614) Reasonable prices for farm-to-table fare. Gluten-free is noted on the menu and there are many options. Also, quite a few gluten-free options for brunch. Range is also committed to giving back to the community. 26. Snap Kitchen (9 Chicagoland locations) Portion controlled healthy take away food. Every single ingredient is listed on the container and they have options for all dietary restrictions. They also carry pantry items. You'll never had to cook again. 27. Tava Indian Restaurant (7172 Dempster St, Morton Grove, IL 60053) It is worth a trip out to the suburbs for this Indian restaurant. You'll be surprised such a nice atmosphere can be found in a strip mall. The menu specifies gluten-free and vegan and they mostly use olive oil in the dishes. With gluten-free bread options, you don’t feel like you have to miss out. 28. Thrive360 Eatery (37 S La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60603) Protein Bar’s newest concept. Menu is similar with more customizable options. As always, gluten-free and vegan are noted on the menu. 29. Uncommon Ground (3800 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613 and 1401 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60660) The Wrigleyville location partnered with the organic brewery next door and the Edgewater location has a rooftop organic garden, which brings a new meaning to farm-to-table. With 20 years in business it is one of the original organic Chicago restaurants. 30. Wheat’s End Artisan Foods (2873 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657) A menu that is 100% gluten-free and celiac safe? That is music to my ears. Only open for lunch and brunch, but when was the last time you had a gluten-free panini or vegan doughnut? What's your favorite healthy restaurant in Chicago? “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” - Virginia Woolf |
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