Shakin & Bakin Foodie Blog

Nothing says summer fun quite like the great American road trip, and you are sure to have a great time exploring northern California. Nice people and natural beauty are everywhere, so there is never a shortage of affordable things to see and do.

Wine Tasting

Most people have heard of the celebrated Napa and Sonoma regions, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. California is home to 107 distinct viticultural areas, each known for different varietals and blends. Try delicious northern Californian wine Redding CA. Most wineries have tasting rooms on their picturesque property, where you can drink in the wines and the views. Many host special events, including art shows, musical guests and theater shows. Whether you prefer red, white or rose, you are sure to find something you like. Discover a new favorite and have a case or two shipped home; each sip will transport you back to your carefree vacation days.

Hiking

Northern California is packed with parks. National parks include the world-famous Yosemite, a rock climber's dream. Lesser-known but still captivating, are Lassen Volcanic National Park and Redwood National Park. For a striking example of the geological phenomenon called columnar basalt, visit Devil’s Postpile National Monument near Mammoth, California, which is also home to the colorful Rainbow Falls. Several state parks in northern California offer unique, spectacular hikes, too. Try Castle Crags State Park, north of Redding, California, where you can hike among towering granite peaks. If beach views are more your speed, head to the rugged Pacific coast and check out Humboldt Lagoons State Park.

Ghost Hunting

Paranormal seekers will find a plethora of haunted historical sites, spooky inns and abandoned towns up and down the coast. Start at the northernmost town in the state, Crescent City. The lighthouse there is purportedly haunted by three ghosts, including an old keeper. South of the lighthouse, in another small coastal town, is a brewery with a haunted reputation. You may not see a ghost at the Humboldt Brewery bar, but you will be able to enjoy some spirits.

National Cheeseburger Day is coming up on Wednesday (September 18th), and there are countless ways to celebrate this cheesy holiday.

Can you eat a 3-pound cheeseburger in an hour? (Note: We’re not math experts, but we have reason to believe that’s the same as 12 quarter-pounders.) If so, you’re well on your way to a $20 gift card at Fuddruckers. Oh, you’ll need to polish off a pound of fries too.

Here at National Today, America’s favorite online destination to celebrate quirky holidays, we want you to know that’s just part of the fun surrounding National Cheeseburger Day next week. To prove it, we’ve put together a definitive guide to one of the top food days on the calendar. Among the highlights:

* Family-friendly deals on the American food classic at restaurants like White Castle, Black Angus, Red Robin, Mooyah, and more can be found on our site. Our list is growing as National Cheeseburger Day approaches, and more burger deals are being announced daily.

* We put out a nationwide call for alternative/original cheeseburger ideas. (Think macaroni & cheese ON the burger.) Included in the post are bloggers, food writers, restaurant owners, and chefs from around the country — each with a distinctive take on an American classic.

* Survey results reveal which type of cheese Americans prefer on cheeseburgers. (Hint: It’s closer than you think.)

* Answers to your most pressing cheeseburger questions: Where did cheeseburgers originate? And what was the inspiration for Jimmy Buffet’s 1978 pop hit “Cheeseburger in Paradise”?

Even if the man in your life seems tough, most guys long to know that they're special to their girlfriends and wives. It can be tough to think of creative ways to show you care, but a surprise can go a long way, no matter how small it may be. Something to break up the monotony of the work week can be a welcome relief to help them get through the rest of their day. Here are three simple ways to give the gift of the unexpected to your boyfriend or husband while he's away at work.

Send Him Something Tasty

The gift of food is always appreciated, so consider an extra special meal or snack delivery with his favorite foods. Schedule a cookie delivery atlanta, drop off sushi from his go-to spot, or order a pizza and have it delivered to the office near lunch time. If his location isn't set in stone, surprise him with a gift card to nearby restaurants or food delivery services so he can pick a treat when it fits in his schedule.

Schedule an Auto Detailing

Most guys take a lot of pride in their cars, so an auto detailing is a great way to help him take care of something he loves. Choose a company that comes directly to clients so your guy doesn't have to make a special trip to drop it off or pick it up. Be sure to give him at least a little heads up for any interior cleaning so he can have the keys available.

Show Him Some Long-Distance Love

Just a little text, call or email to say, "I love you" can go a long way in making your man feel appreciated. Pick a day and commit to making every communication 100% positive and focused on him. If you really want to surprise him, send him something steamy to help him look forward to quitting time.

Everyone needs to feel special every once in a while. Find a simple way to surprise the man you love today!