Wanderings And Ponderings

While traveling through eastern Arkansas, I carved out time to explore Village Creek State Park near Wynne—and I’m so glad I did. This gem of a park is rich with history, natural beauty, and opportunities to explore. One of the most moving experiences was walking along an intact segment of the Trail of Tears , used by the Cherokee (specifically the Bell Detachment), Choctaws, Creeks, and Chickasaws during the forced removals of the 1830s. It's powerful to walk this land with that context in mind. I also stopped by the park’s museum and visitor center , chatted with a few friendly staff, and hiked a short trail that led me to a quiet fishing pier. It even started to sprinkle as I reached the end—one of those moments where the weather adds to the magic of the experience. Village Creek State Park spans nearly 7,000 acres of forested hills and clear-running streams, creating a diverse landscape you won’t find anywhere else in Arkansas. The park includes: 3...

Next up in the Epic Road Trip to Maine series: a powerful and humbling visit to Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania. Standing on the very ground where history was made, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of what happened here. Gettysburg wasn’t just another stop—it was the turning point of the Civil War , a clash of ideals and lives that forever changed the future of the United States.   Over three days in July 1863, more than 160,000 soldiers from the Union and Confederate armies fought across these rolling hills. Today, the serenity of the landscape hides the chaos and sacrifice of that time—but the monuments, markers, and stories endure. My buddy and I spent time in the incredible visitor center , then walked parts of the battlefield, discussing the legacy of the men who fought and the larger meaning behind it all— unity, freedom, and sacrifice . You don’t need to be a history buff to feel the magnitude of this place. It reach...

On a recent food adventure, I had the chance to try out Red Door , one of Little Rock’s most beloved restaurants , founded by none other than Chef Mark Abernathy . With over 40 years in the restaurant industry as a chef, owner, manager, consultant, and developer, Mark has left his mark on Arkansas’ culinary landscape.  If you’ve spent any time around the Little Rock food scene, you’ve heard his name. He’s a legend here—founder of multiple restaurants, winner of countless awards, and a true ambassador for Arkansas cuisine. In addition to Red Door, he also owns the ever-popular Loca Luna . For my meal, I went big with the BBQ Mac N Cheese Burger . It was indulgent, messy, and delicious—the kind of meal that makes you pause between bites just to appreciate the flavor. That said, it was a lot of food . I cut it in half, powered through part of it, and tapped out full and happy. If I order it again, I might opt for the mac on the side (because let’s be honest, th...

On our epic road trip to Maine, my bro-skie and I made a spontaneous detour to Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont, Maryland —a quick stop, but a memorable one. Part of the northeastern ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains , Catoctin is a peaceful blend of scenic overlooks, forest trails, and sparkling streams. You’ll find panoramic views of the Monocacy Valley , and the kind of quiet only deep woods can offer. The name “Catoctin” comes from the Algonquin word Kittockton . Historians suggest it means “speckled mountain,” while local tradition says “place of many deer.” Either way, it’s a place where nature feels alive and rooted in history. We didn’t get to stay long—just enough time to stretch our legs and soak in the fresh air. I did forget to take pictures until we were driving away. (Yes, I know... rookie move. I’ll try to do better next time.) 📍 Coordinates : 39°38′04″N 77°27′00″W Whether you're heading north or just passing through Maryland, Catoctin Mountain P...

Spent my Friday lunch break with some good folks at Big Orange in Little Rock —a place I’d heard plenty about but had yet to experience. Turns out, it lives up to the hype. I went all in with the Hot “N” Hot Chicken Sandwich and a side of Truffle Garlic Fries . The name had me expecting a firestorm, but the spice level was just right—flavorful heat without being overwhelming. The fries were excellent too—crispy, garlicky, and well-balanced. Even though I skipped breakfast in preparation, I still couldn’t finish my plate. Word to the wise: the portion warning is real. Others in the group tried burgers and salads, and every single dish earned positive reviews. Definitely a solid spot for a filling and flavorful meal. 📍 Big Orange 17809 Chenal Pkwy Little Rock, AR 72223

I had the chance to enjoy a great Saturday lunch at Cantina Laredo in Little Rock —and let me tell you, this place delivered. The company was top-tier, and the food? Even better. While I was too busy chatting and snacking to capture every bite, the salsa and queso were immediate standouts. I highly recommend combining the two—it’s the ultimate dip duo. For my main course, I went with the Chicken Fajita Burrito . It was flavorful, satisfying, and left me walking out full and happy. The whole experience—from the modern, upscale vibe of the space to the attentive service—made for a great lunch stop. If you’re in the Little Rock area and craving modern Mexican cuisine , swing by: 📍 Cantina Laredo 207 N University Ave #130 Little Rock, AR 72205 📸 Instagram: @cantinalaredo #miketheoutsider #betteroutside #ugccreator #mikeisoutside #outsider #alwaysoutside #nature #outdoors #tourism #tourists #getoutside #gooutside #photography #explore #adventure #arkansas #e...

To celebrate another lap around the sun, I decided to stick with tradition and do what I do best— eat well and explore locally . "Treat yoself" in my world tends to revolve around food... and honestly, I’m perfectly okay with that. So this year’s birthday adventure took me to Altus, Arkansas , and more specifically to Wiederkehr Village —a historic winemaking community nestled in the Ozark Mountains. A Taste of History: Wiederkehr Wine Cellars 📍 3324 Swiss Family Dr, Altus, AR 72821 📸 Instagram: @wiederkehrwines Founded in 1880 , Wiederkehr Wine Cellars is one of the oldest wineries in the state and an anchor of Altus’ Swiss-German heritage. You’ll find old-world charm and Swiss-style architecture , scenic vineyard views, and, of course, plenty of wine . The wine tasting is worth the stop, but don’t skip the Wiederkehr Weinkeller Restaurant , located in the original hand-dug wine cellar. The space is rustic, cozy, and distinctly European. Their menu leans i...

Last night, I took some time to enjoy downtown Russellville, Arkansas and explore the September 1 Art Walk . It was the kind of evening that reminds you how much creativity and community can fit into a few blocks. Here are two highlights you should definitely check out: Garden Sass 📍 108 N Commerce Ave, Russellville, AR 💻 gardensass.com 📸 Instagram: @garden_sass A new addition to the downtown scene, Garden Sass is a local artisan shop full of charm and color. From handmade goods to quirky home décor, it’s the kind of place where you can always find something unexpected. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or stocking up for the holidays, this is the spot to support local makers and artists . Weird Breakfast 🎨 Instagram: @weird_breakfast One of the coolest artists I came across all evening. Weird Breakfast has a unique, offbeat style that stands out. He has tons of originals, takes commissions, and his booth was one of the most fun to b...