National Geographic’s ‘100 Dives of a Lifetime’ Makes Us Appreciate This Rock We Call Home [REVIEW]

Advanced level dives - Antarctica

Braving the cold, a diver swims beneath Antarctica’s ice. (Photo by Laurent Ballesta, National Geographic Creative)

I am a child of the sea. From the time I was a little boy and my parents would take me to the beach in Los Angeles, I loved everything about the ocean: the smell of tangy salt air, watching the waves crash against the shore, sailing across its tides, swimming against the current, and exploring all the life that makes its home there. The oceans of the world rejuvenate and fascinate me, which is why I’ll never forget the first time I slipped on my goggles and saw a whole new world fathoms below the surface. Now National Geographic is giving all of us a glimpse into this aquatic wonderland in its breathtaking new book, 100 Dives of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Underwater Destinations.  Read more of this post

Women Actors Now and Then [GUEST POST]

Meryl Streep at the 89th Oscars

“Acting is not about being someone different. It’s finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there.” —Meryl Streep (Photo by ABC/Adam Rose, Flickr)

We have always loved the theatre. In fact, for our very first date we went to go see the deliciously dark Jekyll & Hyde, and its score has entranced us ever since. We relish opportunities to watch amazing actors perform live in shows like The Beauty Queen of LeenaneCabaretChicago, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Gypsy. But what would any production be without the awesome talents of actresses who were bold enough to make a career on stage and screen? In today’s guest post, author Susana Aikin examines why it still takes a certain kind of woman to live life in the limelight. —J&H Read more of this post

Explore Planet Earth and Beyond in National Geographic’s ‘Visual Atlas of the World’ [REVIEW]

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area in China (Photo courtesy National Geographic)

Are you as fascinated by our planet as we are? Every time we travel, we love exploring new terrain, taking drives along breathtaking vistas or hikes to reach secluded views, marveling at the miraculous balance of nature in all its stunning beauty. But sometimes it isn’t easy to know exactly where to go. That’s where National Geographic’s Visual Atlas of the World, Second Edition comes in handy. This oversized, photo-packed volume is everything we love in a reference book and more, and here’s why you need a copy for your own personal library. 

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Photo Friday: Findlay Market

Findlay Market

Potted plants welcome visitors to the west entrance of Findlay Market.

One of our favorite Cincinnati landmarks, Findlay Market is a foodie’s paradise featuring the freshest meats and produce in town. If you’ve never been, our first photo essay gives you a sneak peak of what to expect.

Heather grew up going to Findlay Market, where her mom stocked up on fresh meat, fish, veggies and more to feed her family of eight. Now we visit at least once a month, rubbing elbows with some of the best chefs and home cooks in the region, as we all seek great deals on top quality cuts of beef, pork, poultry, seafood and more. Read more of this post