Forks in the Road: On Poking Around the Edges

By Katy Budge Our most recent Pod Squad trip to the Pacific Northwest underscored the concept of poking around the edges, lifting up the curtains, seeking out the small spaces. Yes, you can always go to the hot spots, and many times they’re worth it. But, don’t discount the value of taking the road less travelled. Port Townsend One way we always try to avoid … Continue reading Forks in the Road: On Poking Around the Edges

Forks in the Road: Impressions of Magical Venice

By Katy Budge Venice is a magical city … in more ways than one. Designated a UNESCO heritage site, its very existence defies logic and logistics. The population of Venice began to amass in the 5th century largely because some people were fleeing invasions, and found refuge on some easy-to-defend islands in a lagoon. A rather inauspicious start to one of the world’s great cities. … Continue reading Forks in the Road: Impressions of Magical Venice

Forks in the Road: To Bend and Beyond!

By Katy Budge Beer, Beer, Beer To say that Bend is a beer-centric town is an understatement! Most are concentrated in the downtown area (such as Bend Brewing and the original location of Deschutes), but it seems that every neighborhood has its own lineup of taps. Among our favs on the Eastside were Sunriver Brewing, 10 Barrel Brewing, and the tiny Van Henion tucked off … Continue reading Forks in the Road: To Bend and Beyond!

Forks in the Road: A Quick Spring Jaunt to Northern California

By Katy Budge Well, I’ll start with a disclaimer. This trip through Northern California also included a stop in Ashland, Oregon, but the point of that was to visit family, so I didn’t do due diligence with documenting my every morsel. Guess I’ll have to go back and rectify that at a later date! I’m not always in the mood for a swap meet situation, … Continue reading Forks in the Road: A Quick Spring Jaunt to Northern California

Forks in the Road: Celebrating in Santa Cruz

It had been a minute since the last camping trip in Santa Cruz, so when a hard-to-come-by spot opened up at New Brighton State Beach – off we went! This timing occurred during the date of another trip ‘round the sun, and I got to celebrate with an old friend in Santa Cruz I hadn’t seen in a while, and a surprise visit from other … Continue reading Forks in the Road: Celebrating in Santa Cruz

Forks in the Road: San Francisco, Spring 2021

By Katy Budge It’s bittersweet to begin writing this post. I’m determined that it’s going to be a happy tale about being able to return to a city that I love, and to enjoy all of its moveable feasts. I did get to do that – to go to San Francisco in the spring of 2021. I and my friends were vaccinated. We wore masks … Continue reading Forks in the Road: San Francisco, Spring 2021

Forks in the Road: Wildfires + COVID Camping

By Katy Budge I think we can all agree that the phrase “May we live in interesting times” can be permanently retired, yes? The past 15 months have been one for the books, and I’m ready to turn the page. That said, I was able to do some memorable “COVID camping” trips. And, as always, did my level best to support local food establishments – … Continue reading Forks in the Road: Wildfires + COVID Camping

Forks in the Road: #eatlocalontheroad

Eating local is nothing new. It’s been the thrumming mantra of “foodies” in this century, and – as such — has arguably lost a bit of its luster and cachet. However, despite its simplicity, its passé patina, and its challenges, there are ever increasing reasons why supporting local food has become more important. One is that by supporting local food producers and purveyors directly, you’re … Continue reading Forks in the Road: #eatlocalontheroad

From the Archives – “Forks in the Road”: From Vancouver with love to Poutine and Saumon Fume

Since I’m in the midst of World Cup fever, this archive dive seemed appropriate. It’s a post I wrote after visiting Vancouver in 2012 to watch the US Women’s team qualify for the Olympics. This is one of the “Forks in the Road” pieces about my traveling culinary finds. If you’re planning an upcoming trip, check that page to see if I’ve covered anywhere you … Continue reading From the Archives – “Forks in the Road”: From Vancouver with love to Poutine and Saumon Fume