Columbus, Ohio

Kim and me lunching at the Northstar Cafe.

I was able to get a mom's weekend away over Easter to visit with my great friend, Kimberly. She's in Columbus, OH with her husband, John, and her almost 2-year old daughter Ann. We had a nice time visiting, eating, libating, and shopping. You know, girl stuff. It was a nice get-away for me and a much appreciated respite from Mommydom.

We began the visit with lunch at the Northstar Cafe. Kimberly's sister, Kelly, took the pictures. My usual there is their own veggie burger and a "Starburst" fresh juice consisting of carrot and apple juices with a little ginger thrown in for extra tastiness. Every time I visit Columbus I must have my Northstar burger! Kim, Kelly, and I went from here to Jeni's ice cream for the best ice cream I've ever had! This time I fell for the Orange Blossom flavor. Tasted exactly like the essence of an orange blossom. Heavenly! Jeni's has the most unique flavors I've ever heard of in ice cream... delicious too. Last summer, the flavor I chose was Ohio sweet corn with blackberries! sounds iffy - but I had to try - and it was simply delicious! Some of their other unique flavors include Thai Chili, creme de Violet, lavender and wild berries, Savannah buttermint, salty caramel, and black coffee, among many others. You can even have the ice cream shipped to you where ever you are so it can be enjoyed anytime! Bottom line: it's really good and different.

After ice cream, we did a bit of shopping before Kelly had to head back to Cinncinnati, where she lives. Kim and I went out for dinner together and enjoyed some wine and delicious food.

Ann and me coloring together. She's very good at her art.

I was able to get some Whole Foods Market shopping in where we bought some lamb to make at home for dinner. Delicious! I headed back home on Monday and was very happy and refreshed. It was good to return to my family again.