Rabbit Hash General Store
As many of y'all probably know, Rabbit Hash General Store in the Northern Kentucky town of Burlington burned down Saturday night.
Of course, it's easy to see the loss as just one of those things; a 185 year-old store burning down just happens, especially when it was built of wood. But, when my sorority sister Tasha posted these heartfelt words of grief and love to Facebook, it hit me that the Rabbit Hash store isn't just an architectural oddity, a roadside attraction, or a curious story of a dog mayor. It's the story of small-town Kentucky. It's our collective childhood memories of a Kentucky that's quaint and safe and friendly. It truly is the best of the Bluegrass.
“My heart is sad. Words can’t really express how much Rabbit Hash has been a part of my Wilder family. Troy and I have been driving there to get bottled soda and snacks since I was in high school. It is our go-to “happy place” with so many memories. Like, the time Owen voted for Lucy the dog for Mayor and proudly wore his “I voted for Lucy” button for weeks. Or, the times we have camped there with best friends and all our kids. And, the times we have been nearly broke and taking Molly and Owen for sodas was our weekend entertainment. And, the times we have been out of sorts and going helped remind us how important our family is. Or, the time my girlfriends and I discovered there is a winery on site and we could have spent the rest of the camping trip there. Or, the time I took Owen after our first overnight Mom/Son kayak and camping trip. Or, the time Molly ate a candy necklace and trashed the adorable white dress I put her in that day. And, all the times my kids played on that big, front porch. My thoughts are with the people of the Rabbit Hash community today. It is their home and livelihood that has been forever impacted. Thanks for letting us visit.”
Best of luck to the Rabbit Hash General Store as they work to rebuild. If you'd like to contribute to the GoFundMe established by the Store's owner and operator Terrie Markesbery, please click here.
Abraham Lincoln, Kentuckian.
When we first started HerKentucky, it was for the purpose of celebrating the Bluegrass State, not to tear down other states. For nearly five years, I've tried to stick to that plan. Buuutttt....
I've got a little bone to pick with Illinois.
Illinois is a perfectly lovely state. It's the home of the "world's most beautiful drive." It's the home of Superman. And Ronald Reagan. But you know what it's not? The Land of Lincoln. I don't care what their license plates say.
Abraham Lincoln was born 207 years ago today in Hodgenville, Kentucky. He married a Lexington girl.
And, he never forgot how important the Commonwealth was to his political strategy.
Here's to the birthday boy, Abraham Lincoln, the original hipster.
And don't be sad, Illinois. "Reagan's still pretty good" would look nice on a license plate.
More HerKentucky posts about Abe:
Valentine's Day Dates You'll Actually Enjoy!
St. Valentine's Day, named for a martyred 3rd Century Roman who may or may not have actually existed, is celebrated every year on February 14th as an expression of romantic love. The symbols of hearts and flowers and candies are everywhere. And, as we all know, it can actually also be a little stupid.
But, you know, it doesn't have to be. There are fun activities this weekend in every corner of the Commonwealth that let you celebrate with your sweetie in unique ways!
Louisville
- B.You Fitness offers a chance to show the guy in your life exactly what you do in barre class. Enjoy Barre with your Beau 6:15 tomorrow night at the Chenoweth Square location. Try Silque Cardio with your Sweetie 6:00 tomorrow night at B.You's Springhurst studio.
- Louisville has the best pizza. THE BEST. I suggest the 2 topping heart-shaped 14" pizza for $15 at Wick's. Sunday only. Or the $30 dinner for two at Impellizzeri's, including salad, a 12" heart-shaped pizza, and an amazing-sounding molten brownie.
- How about an '80s dance party that supports equality? Modern Love: A Valentine's Day Dance Party is Sunday night at Louis's "The Ton." If you're planning a wedding, Fair Event Vendors Alliance™ (FEVA) representatives will be there. FEVA aims to connect the LGBTQ community with Louisville and Southern Indiana area wedding and event professionals, who welcome them as clients and believe in their equality and fair treatment. The event will feature some rare specialty beers from Flat12 Bierwerks, Goodwood Brewing, and West Sixth Brewing, and pints of the featured beers come with an 80s fandom Valentine’s Day card and a chance to win swag and prizes.
- The Four Roses Flower Hour at Nanz & Kraft Florist combines hearts and flowers in the best possible way. This special Valentine's Day shopping and bourbon tasting event benefits the American Heart Association. Tomorrow night, 5:30-8 p.m. $10 cash only at the door.
- Corner Bar is one of my favorites. They're offering special cocktails, small plates and chocolate + champs pairings now through Valentine's Day and enforcing a screen-free environment.
Paducah
- Flower + Furbish is hosting a Valentines pop-up shop at the Coke Plant Saturday and Sunday. These gorgeous, unique arrangements are far from your traditional dozen roses!
- If kickass-Kentucky-girl-with-guitar music is your thing, check out local musician Jessica Lee Wilkes in concert at Maiden Alley Cinema Friday night.
Lexington
- Let's go ahead and acknowledge that UK basketball is your first love. Order takeout and watch UK @ South Carolina on ESPN Saturday at noon.
- So, Romeo & Juliet set to ballet probably is the most conventionally romantic thing on this list. It still sounds pretty fun. Saturday and Sunday at the Lexington Opera House.
- If Kentucky is your BAE, and seriously, it should be, visit the Market 301 at Manchester Music Hall Friday night from 6-10 at Manchester Music Hall and shop with some of Central Kentucky's best artisans and vendors. The first 100 guests receive a free tote bag!
Pikeville
- The special Saturday menu at The Blue Raven sounds amazing.
Owensboro
- Why not meet your bestie at the barre? Book a Valentine's Day class at Pure Barre Owensboro and get a special gift bag! You'll receive $10 in barre bucks if you bring a friend!
Happy Valentine's Day, y'all!
Shop Local for Valentine's Day!
Great Valentine's Day presents from local Louisville artisans!
Happy almost-Valentine's Day, y'all!
If you're still looking for an amazing gift for your sweetie, here are some absolutely gorgeous pieces made by local Louisville artisans that are fun, romantic, and unique!
Louisville Stoneware Mug
I debated putting this one on the list, because I want one myself, and I've heard a rumor that there are only a few remaining. But, these are absolutely the most adorable pieces of locally-made pottery! If your Valentine really, really loves coffee, this is the perfect gift. Available in-studio only at Louisville Stoneware.
Anchal Project Scarf
The Anchal Project is an AMAZING Louisville-based company that trains and employs former sex workers in India to create stunning, one-of-a-kind textiles. I had the good fortune to hear Anchal founder Colleen Clines talk about empathy a few months ago. After watching her speak, I'm OBSESSED with Anchal and their mission!
Elva Fields Necklace
Elva Fields is one of my favorite, favorite local companies. Owner/ designer Emily Wheat Maynard is one of the sweetest ladies you'll ever meet, and she is crazy talented. She scopes out lovely antiques and one-of-a-kind gemstones to make every piece an experience. Check out this Elva Fields necklace and this necklace!
Cellar Door Chocolates
This may be my all-time favorite take on the perennial "sweets for your sweet" gift. It's Phoebe Buffay's lobsters, reimagined in locally-made chocolate.
Just as a reminder of why this is so awesome,
A piece from Cuteopia!
Revelry Boutique Gallery in NuLu has some of the most fabulous pieces every day, but their Cuteopia exhibit is over-the-top fabulous. Who could say no to these declarations of love?
Here's to a perfect Valentine's Day with your sweetie!
Kentucky's 8 Best Pizzas
Today is National Pizza Day, so we thought we'd celebrate with Kentucky's very best pizza.
OK, maybe Papa John's isn't the Commonwealth's best pizza, but it probably is our most famous.
Here are HerKentucky's favorite Bluegrass State pizzas by region.
Paducah
- Pizza by the Pound They don't deliver and they don't have to. It's that good. Pizza by the Pound, a local institution since 1964, is home of the eight pound pizza. If you can eat it in one hour and in one setting, they'll give you $100. I just prefer a few slices of pepperoni that will only make you feel like you've gained eight pounds.
- Pizza Inn Recently crowned the #1 Readers' Choice in the Paducah Sun, Pizza Inn is the best pizza buffet I've ever had. It was also our choice on Sunday nights growing up. They have the best thin crust pizza and the most amazing chocolate chip dessert pizza you've ever tasted.
- Michael's New York Style Pizza The runner-up for Readers Choice, Michael's is great for big, saucy slices just like they sell in the Big Apple. I love the spiciness of their sauce and their crust is delicious.
(Paducah picks compiled by HerKentucky's resident Paducah enthusiast, Sarah Stewart Holland of bluegrass redhead.)
Louisville
Impellizzeri's Pizza Impellizzeri's has the best true Sicilian-style pizza in town. A Louisville staple, the Highlands Imp's is an amazing place to dine al fresco with a chalice of Stella Artois. The Whiskey Row location is a fun spot to hang out before an event at the Yum Center.
Spinelli's Pizza Spinelli's offers big Brooklyn-style pizzas, and has distinguished itself by offering late-night delivery (until 4:30 a.m.) and even later dine-in options (until 5 a.m.). Everybody's ordered Spinelli's at some point, even if everyone hasn't been brave enough to try their signature fried Oreos.
Wick's Pizza Ask any true Louisvillian, and they'll tell you that Wick's is the place to go for huge, deep-dish pizza smothered in quality ingredients. Their pepperoni is so fresh and spicy that you'll wonder if you've ever eaten pepperoni before. A funky, laid-back atmosphere (there's often a live band). Five locations across the Louisville area, but the Highlands location is where you want to go.
Coal's Artisan Pizza Coal-fired artisan pizza with amazing ingredients, a very decent wine list, and an always-full dining room. Two Louisville locations, and pizzas named for the city's favorite neighborhoods. I recommend the St. Matthews, the Brownsboro, or the Waverly!
Eastern KY
Giovanni's Pizza Anybody who has spent any time in Eastern Kentucky has eaten plenty of Giovanni's pizza. It just seems like there's always been a Giovanni's location in every town along U.S. Route 23. Giovanni's is known for big ol' pizzas that feed a crowd, making them a favorite for birthday parties and sporting events. Their pizza buffet is a lunchtime staple in most everybody's hometown, offering all-you-can-eat breadsticks, pizza and pasta. Giovanni's sandwiches are a perennial favorite as well. The stromboli sandwich (a steak hoagie with pizza sauce and cheese) and the Big Red (steak hoagie with cheese and red French dressing) are classic menu items.
Lexington
Joe Bologna's Joe B's is a Lexington institution. Located just off UK's campus in a church-turned-synagogue-turned-pizzaria, Joe Bologna's offers hearty deep-dish pizza and famous breadsticks smothered in garlic butter.
Happy Birthday, American Pharoah
Sports fans are, as a general rule, a superstitious group. Horse racing fans are the most notoriously superstitious of all. Before most every race I, and almost every other horse racing fan I know, will stop to do two things: We say a little prayer that all the jockeys and horses make it though the race safely, and we hope that this year, we'll see a once-in-a-lifetime horse. The horse who'll win the Triple Crown. The horse whose name everyone -- not just the people at the track -- will remember.
In 2015, we saw a once-in-a-lifetime horse. Foaled on February 2, 2012 at Lexington's Stockplace Farms and subsequently acquired Zayat Stables, by American Pharoah's name was misspelled when electronically submitted to the Jockeys Club. By 2015, his list of wins amazed the world. In his three-year-old season, he won th Rebel Stakes, the Arkansas Derby, the Haskell Invitational, all three races of the Triple Crown, and the Breeders' Cup Classic.
The excitement at this year's Breeders' Cup is hard to describe. I'd never seen a racetrack so crowded, not even on Derby Day. The crowd spilled farther down the rail at Keeneland than I even imagined possible.
We all just wanted to say that we saw the final race of the Greatest Horse of Our Lifetime. He certainly didn't disappoint.
Happy birthday, American Pharoah!
Sweetgrass Granola
Sweetgrass Granola is a Kentucky Proud snack you can feel good about eating!
Sweetgrass Granola was gracious enough to send me a few samples of their amazing granola.
In case you haven't heard of them before, Sweetgrass is small-batch, handmade granola that is made on a farm in Central Kentucky, using local ingredients. It's non-GMO and wheat-free, with no refined sugars added, so you can rest easy about what you're eating. And, it's delicious.
The figgy chai, this winter's seasonal flavor, is a rich blend of 7 chai spices with chunks of dried figs. It's a really filling snack by itself or with Greek yogurt.
And then, there's my absolute favorite, the Germantown Chocolate. Y'all, this is so, so good. Cocoa, coconut and seedling pecans mixed in with sorghum granola. A handful makes a great dessert. (If you can keep yourself from eating the whole bag at one sitting, that is...)
Look for Sweetgrass Granola at specialty grocers like Lucky's Market or order online.
