To Madison

One of the best views of the capital that I've ever experienced, despite the cold

Though the proposal was a blur, and we couldn’t sleep at all throughout that night (adrenaline and nerves can do that to you), we managed to summon the energy for a day trip to Madison the next morning. I love the city and have been there many times, though I can’t recall another visit in the throes of winter. It was definitely an experience enhanced by the warmth of the Olbrich BotanicalGardens.

A forest of sparkly Evergleam trees at the Wisconsin Historical Museum

Mouth-watering root beers and cheese curds, served curbside

Pretty pink things at Olbrich Gardens, aka the warmest place in the state of Wisconsin

A gorgeous welcome back to the hotel in Oconomowoc after a long day of sight-seeing

Curio in Columbus

Simple, rustic place settings ideal for socializing

Though my sister’s graduation party at Curio was quite awhile ago, memories of the flavorful food, extensive drink menu, great service, and eclectic party room still linger. Curio is the sister creation of Harvest Pizzeria, and it’s perfectly tucked away inside Columbus’ quaint German Village. We booked the speakeasy’s private room upstairs, and were treated to an extra long table, family-style servings, ethereal music selection, and a handcrafted “Silver Dollar Pony” signature cocktail that was a fitting toast to my sister’s newly awarded equine medicine degree. Make this a must-see during your next culinary adventure in Ohio’s capital.

A colorful olive assortment starter

Our well-equipped drink station

One of the many cheeky vintage touches throughout the room

Harvest Pizzeria sausage and fennel with a local microbrew pairing

A cute way to serve up some straws

A definite highlight of the meal: butterscotch budino

Graphic wrapping paper suitable for a veterinary medicine grad

The end of the Silver Dollar Ponies...

...with plenty more where they came from