A Bookstore, a coffeeshop, and...Artificial Bird Sanctuary?

We have come back from our (mostly) annual trip from Las Vegas and we found some really cool stuff on this visit. One such place is The Writer's Block, a gorgeous bookstore that also has a coffee shop, because books and coffee just go together. What sets this shop apart from all other bookstores is the decor. It's like stepping into the outside, but better.

I already knew that I wanted to support this unique bookstore before ever setting foot in it. Here's the book I decided was going to be interesting and also small enough to fit in my bag going home. This whole shelf was full of A Short Introduction books of all subjects. 

The outside of the shop is standard and really gives you no indication of what's in store for you inside.

Walking in, you are immediately greeted by this huge birdcage full of literature. One side is the coffee shop, and the other is where you check out with all your fantastical goodies.

Everyone raves about bookstores like The Last Bookstore in LA, but then there are hidden gems like this. I wish more people knew about them, but also don't want them to get too popular and crowded. 

This is one of those places that you can visit over and over and still not see everything. Every inch of the space is packed with amazing stuff. It is touted as an "artificial bird sanctuary" and this was probably the best part to me, because each section has a signature group of birds overhead and smaller versions of those birds that you can "rescue". Those blue tags you see are attached to birds available for rescue for just $8.

Each section is small, but full of gifts, decor, artificial foliage,  books, games, and educational items.

Not sure what to read? That's okay. There are tables full of bestsellers, new books, and staff picks.

My absolute favorite part of Writer's Block are the tiny library-like offices that are so full of wonderful things. This is where employees sit and can offer you help and suggestions. They look like little holiday spots and must be lovely to work in, because you're out of the way, and have your own teeny oasis that you get paid to hang out in.

I took a few videos walking around the store, but I guarantee that you still won't get a sense of just how awesome this shop is. 2 steps in, I already knew I'd be back. It's also on a nice quiet street in Downtown Las Vegas, with free parking in the back, or affordable street parking all around. 

And of course I had to "rescue" a little bird as a take-home souvenir. Their stories are hilarious and you can read Jazmin's autobirdography here. She's pretty full of herself. I can't wait to go back and rescue more. 

At the end of your visit, above the register, you can read the pledge you should take before leaving with your new rescue(s). Eric was very disappointed that they didn't make me recite it when I paid.

What are some of your favorite bookstores, either where you live or from your travels?

Disney + Other Theme Parks On A Budget

Being on a budget can sometimes make theme park vacations challenging, since everything seems to cost an arm and a leg. As fun as theme parks are, it’s not all that fun when you know you are quickly draining your bank account and spending way more time in line than you need to be. With some strategic planning you can get a better value for your dollars and still have a great time at the parks. Here are my top tips for doing Disney and other theme parks on a budget:

Get to the parks early

My number one rule of visiting any theme park is to get there before they open. The worst line you stand in is the one before you get into the park. Try to arrive 20-30 minutes before the gates open and you could avoid large crowds of excited guests.

Avoid EMH

Disney parks that have Extra Magic Hour each day tend to be the busiest ones. Find out which are participating on which day and avoid them. The other parks will be less crowded in the morning and that means shorter lines.

Bring snacks

Even if you don’t have children in tow, it is always a good idea to bring a bag stocked with healthy snacks and bottled water (or a reusable bottle that you can refill for free around the park). Those churros, pretzels and popcorn throughout the day can really add up and they aren’t very nutritious either. The other upside to bringing your own food is that you don’t have to wait in line forever to get a drink or an overpriced ice cream. You have your own snack bar in your bag!

Make dining reservations

Dining reservations are a must when visiting Disney. There are so many restaurants to choose from, but even at the least busy times you may have to wait up to an hour to be seated. Look at menus and prices online, then book a table right there (or call Disney Dining). Aim for times outside the normal meal times – 11-11:30 A.M. or 2-2:30 P.M. for lunch and 5-5:30 P.M. or 7:30 P.M. or later for dinner – to take advantage of a ready table and to beat the crowds. Ride lines are considerably shorter during lunch and dinner. You can book reservations at a few restaurants inside Universal as well.

Buy souvenirs off-site

There are many cool things to buy inside the parks, but you’ve probably noticed their high price tags, too. Children have a habit of wanting things wherever they are. Surprise them by purchasing clothing and toys at one of the nearby souvenir shops or discount stores like Target. You will keep them happy and also save a bundle.

By doing a bit of preparation, you can pack more into each day and really get your money’s worth. Waiting in line sucks, and your kids (or your significant other) will be glad you took the time to learn some tricks to help eliminate needless standing around for things, and you can do the happy dance when you wallet isn’t empty at the end of each day.

Theme parks don't have to be crazy expensive. We do a lot of them and we know where to cut corners and how to make the most of our time as well. 

How do you make your visits to theme parks more affordable?

Let's Go On a Road Trip!

A huge percentage of people take vacations in the summer, including myself. If you'll be doing this as well, here are some cool facts about road trip planning. 

photo credit

I know gas is expensive, and literally, everything costs more right now with inflation, but that doesn't mean that you can't take a great road trip. Save by bringing your own food, or check out these other money-saving tips, and don't forget to get your car checked out before you leave home. 

Plan a lot of stops along the way, so you can get out and stretch your legs and maybe see something cool. Roadside attractions can be pretty cool, if you give them a chance. I like to stop at places that are free, like we saw on our last road trip through Nevada. 

Google is your friend. I search for tips on where to stop, but I also take time to go to Google Maps, pin my route, and then go alone that route to see what attractions are open nearby. This can take a few hours, but it has allowed me to find some real hidden gems.

What are some of your favorite road trip tips, or your favorite places to road trip to/through?