I have to admit I was not prepared for the unbelievable beauty of the Exquisite Creatures exhibit. It was one of the best and most unique exhibits I have ever seen. The artist and naturalist, Christopher Marley, takes animals, fish, insects, and other creatures that have recently died and preserves them. While that itself is not so unusual, what he does with them is. He creates some of the most unique, gorgeous, and fascinating artwork I have ever encountered. REALLY.

Did you know that the Oklahoma City Museum of Art Has a wonderful collection of Dale Chihuly glasswork? I did not know this until I started planning my eclipse road trip. When I saw that the art museum was having a special exhibit on Dale Chihuly this year I knew where I wanted to start my trip.

I have been a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright’s art and architecture for quite some time. I’ve visited a number of his projects such as a few of his houses in the Midwest, a hotel in Mason City, Iowa, and the Chicago neighborhood of Oak Park.

There are a number of cities known for their art museums and art events, but Scottsdale takes art to a whole new level!

Yesterday I went on a little adventure with my mom and two sisters to two luxury hotels in Scottsdale.

There will be days that don’t remotely go according to plan when you travel. In fact, you will sometimes have to completely abandon the plan and “wing it.” Today was one of those days.

If you’re anything like me, you don’t particularly love the month of January in the Midwest. Some folks get Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) and tire of the gray clouds, lack of sunshine and monotony of being indoors. I don’t tend to notice that much in myself, but I do crave beautiful green plants and colorful, blooming flowers this time of year.

While a quarter million (250,000) currently live in Scottsdale, the original downtown/Old Town feels very much like a small town. There are many small shops of all types, fun restaurants, artwork and galleries galore, beautiful public areas, and an unbelievable amount of Western Americana.

Everybody has a favorite hotel in Kansas City and different criteria for determining their favorite. For some, upscale amenities are critical. Others require a certain “vibe” or decor.