The person most responsible for all of our fantastic European adventures is without a doubt Rick Steves. For three years, I almost never left the house without consulting a blue and yellow book for every imaginable detail for our destinations.

It was a thrill to thank him in person, and snap this photo at the DC Travel & Adventure Show!

Last week, Tricia and I attended an interview and Q&A session at George Washington University with the one and only Barefoot Contessa: Ina Garten. Here’s a terrible picture of a delightful evening:

(I told you it was terrible. But I really wanted to document it here!)