Steffens Jewelry Store in Rensselaer, Indiana

When was the last time you experienced a friendly browsing experience while shopping for jewelry?

Steffens Jewelry in Rensselaer, Indiana

There are rows and rows and rows of sparkling diamonds. More than just diamonds, however–there’s rows and rows of all sorts of other shining loveliness!

Sterling silver, titanium, tungsten, stones of all kinds–well, you’ll find them here at Steffens Jewelry. Sure, the dazzling diamonds in this family-owned business are stunning. But what gets me every time? The estate jewelry!

I love things that have a history–even my wedding band has the initials and year of a couple from 1930 on it. Steffens Jewelry has a phenomenal selection (i.e. things I’d love to wear!) of estate jewelry in all sizes, shapes, and colors.

Indiana Jewelry Store

Rensselaer, Indiana: Steffens Jewelry -- Repairs in Progress

Small town or not, there’s a whole lot to love about Steffens Jewelry. Not only is it a family business, but Roger repairs jewelry himself!

As a registered watchmaker, jewelry, and diamond-setter, Roger is able to do repairs in-store.

Roger and his wife, Vicki purchased the family business back in 1986. You could say they know their stuff!

For 55 years Steffens Jewelry has been Rensselaer’s hometown jeweler.

A Rensselaer Staple

Rensselaer, Indiana: Steffen's Jewelry Store

Since they buy gold, diamonds, and coins, the inventory is always changing–and is so much fun to browse.

Steffens Jewelry has all the sparkly, shiny pretty things you’d expect at a big city jewelry store–but with the friendliness and prices you’d expect from a small Indiana town!

You’ll never think “mall” when it comes to fine jewelry again.

Go There

This is a name you can trust. You won’t want to miss this Jasper County treasure! Just make sure to tell ‘em that little Indiana sent you.

Find Steffens Jewelry images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr Photostream.

Steffens Jewelry
217 West Washington Street
Rensselaer, Indiana 47978
219.866.8781

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It had been a long time since little Indiana had paid a visit to Five Loaves Bakery & Cafe in Francesville, Indiana.

After looking at the images below, I think you’ll agree that a return trip to Francesville, Indiana was long overdue. That Sugar Cream Pie was amazing!

Five Loaves Bakery & Cafe has a lovely selection of baked goods that look as good as they taste. Now that they’ve branched into catering, you can wow your guests with great food from this phenomenal Indiana bakery.

Five Loaves Bakery & Cafe Images

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe in Francesville, Indiana Sugar Cream Pie

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe in Francesville, Indiana Cookies

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe in Francesville, Indiana Homemade Chocolates

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe in Francesville, Indiana Goodness

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe in Francesville, Indiana Cinnamon Rolls

Find more Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Five Loaves Bakery and Cafe
106 S. Bill Street
Francesville, Indiana 47946
219.567.2600

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Mayberry Cafe in Danville, Indiana takes small town to a new level–an Andy Griffith type of level!

The natives were restless so we did what any other parents would do in this situation: we ordered pie for ourselves to take back to our room at The Old MG Bed and Breakfast. We are all sorts of sneaky.

After the kids were in bed, we didn’t wait to dig in! My slice of Mayberry Cafe’s Sugar Cream Pie has made it move up into one of my all-time favorite pies ever. It was absolute perfection!

Mayberry Cafe Images from Danville, Indiana

Mayberry Cafe in Danville, Indiana

Mayberry Cafe: Danville, Indiana

Mayberry Cafe: Danville, Indiana

Mayberry Cafe: Danville, Indiana

Mayberry Cafe: Danville, Indiana

Find Mayberry Cafe images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Mayberry Cafe
78 West Main Street
Danville, Indiana 46122
317.745.4067

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Valentine's Day Chex Mix Recipe

From a couples standpoint–I’m not very into Valentine’s Day. But from a parenting standpoint–I love sharing in the holiday fun with our kids.

This Betty Crocker recipe is easy enough that it looks like you fussed when it takes mere minutes to throw together this sweet take on Chex Mix. The sprinkles just make it cute!

Valentine’s Day Chex Mix Recipe of Love

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Veni's Sweet Shop: Nappanee, Indiana

Yes, Veni’s Sweet Shop is as good as it sounds.

Veni’s Chocolate Shop in Nappanee, Indiana

Nice and bright, this shop is so welcoming. Rows and rows of chocolates in all shapes, sizes, and flavors beg to be bought and eaten behind the shining glass.

I would be lying if I said I came out of Veni’s Sweet Shop empty-handed!

But it’s research, right? I mean, I don’t really even have a choice in the matter. I owe it to all of you to tell it like it is.

Indiana Sweet Shop

Veni's Sweet Shop: Nappanee, Indiana

After an agonizingly difficult decision, I ended up with Orange Creme, Vanilla Creme, and Mint Creme. My favorite flavors right here in little Indiana! Awesome.

Smooth and delicious–there’s no additives, wax, or preservatives in these chocolatey bites of Heaven. You can definitely taste the difference. Fresh and fantastic.

At this Indiana candy store, the Orange Creme was my favorite!

Personally, I would love to do more research on Veni’s Sweet Shop. Seriously. Name the day!

More Than a Chocolate Shop

Veni's Sweet Shop: Nappanee, Indiana

This Elkhart County shop isn’t only for those who need a Chocolate fix (though it certainly does the trick!).

There’s a selection of nuts, candy, and even drinks–like an ice cream float or Hot Chocolate.

But more than that? I see Veni’s Sweet Shop as one more reason to bypass the big box shops and to support local business. Oh, how sweet it is!

Go There

A sweet shop is just what Nappanee needed! I can’t think of a better fit for this bustling Indiana town.

Find Veni’s Sweet Shop images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Veni’s Sweet Shop
101 West Market Street
Nappanee, Indiana 46550
574.773.4242

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Big Splash Adventure: French Lick, Indiana

Winter or Summer, you’ll plenty to do to keep you busy in this fun Indiana town.

Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark

As we drove up the very big hill to get to the hotel and waterpark, the kids were amazed.

Encased in glass windows, there’s no hiding the colorful slides darting around inside–and out!

Kid #1 couldn’t believe his great good luck. “Mom, are we staying HERE?”

Big Splash Indoor Waterpark Rooms

Big Splash Adventure in French Lick, Indiana Room

Who knew our room at Big Splash Indoor Waterpark would be so comfortable?

I was expecting more “kid-friendly” and less decorative type things. Boy was I wrong.

Extra-long decorative pillows, a comfortable mattress, and nice, neutral colors lent a relaxing feel to the room. The kids really liked playing with the giant  pillows!

What’s great is that even after you check out, you are still allowed access to the indoor waterpark. How fun is that?

Indiana Indoor Waterpark

Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark in French Lick, Indiana

The lazy river was calling my name. Kid #1 liked to go through it with me.

I liked to bop his inner tube over and under as many buckets, fountains, and other “get you drenched” sort of surprises.

Now that was fun! Kid #2 loved the toddler pool and slide! He felt like such big stuff.

Kid #1 and hubby were brave enough to tackle the slides first thing. They couldn’t wait to tell me how creepy the red slide was at night–so dark you can’t see anything but can feel the temperature change as it darts outside the building!

I wasn’t brave enough to battle the stairs (you know my fear of heights, right?) until the next morning. But then? Wow did I have fun!

Go There

People travel all over the country looking for something to do when there’s great good fun to be had in their very own backyard.

Get over to Orange County and make a splash–any time of year!

Find Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark
8505 West State Road 56
French Lick, Indiana 47432
877.936.3866

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When you need a comfy, cozy place to stay, you should certainly consider The Old MG Bed and Breakfast in Brownsburg, Indiana.

The Old MG Bed and Breakfast was the perfect place to hole up for the night. The kids found blocks to keep them busy and hubs and I poked through books and games, too!

But one of the best parts of any Indiana bed and breakfast stay is the breakfast! Gingerbread Muffins, French Toast, fruit–and bacon! Isn’t everything better with bacon?

The Old MG Bed and Breakfast Images from Brownsburg, Indiana

Brownsburg, Indiana: The Old MG Bed and Breakfast Sign

Brownsburg, Indiana: The Old MG Bed and Breakfast Room

Brownsburg, Indiana: The Old MG Bed and Breakfast Jessica Nunemaker

Brownsburg, Indiana: The Old MG Bed and Breakfast Bacon!

Brownsburg, Indiana: The Old MG Bed and Breakfast

Find The Old MG Bed and Breakfast images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

The Old MG Bed and Breakfast
7579 North State Road 267
Brownsburg, Indiana 46112
317.852.5923

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Bill’s Rock Shop in Delphi, Indiana is an awesome little shop. There are rocks and fossils everywhere!

I admit that I would use any excuse to visit Delphi, Indiana! But–Bill’s Rock Shop holds its own as a great downtown destination.

This would make such a great place to take the kids or grand-kids and give them a little lesson on rocks or fossils. Educational and fun!

I’ve heard tell that it’s seasonally opened, so please be sure to call ahead before you head out.

Bill’s Rock Shop Images from Delphi, Indiana

Delphi, Indiana: Bill's Rock Shop

Delphi, Indiana: Bill's Rock Shop

Delphi, Indiana: Bill's Rock Shop

Delphi, Indiana: Bill's Rock Shop

Delphi, Indiana: Bill's Rock Shop

See Bill’s Rock Shop images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Bill’s Rock Shop
113 South Washington Street
Delphi, Indiana 46923
765.564.3073

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Netters Restaurant in Bremen, Indiana

Serving up tasty and delicious homemade food that’s made to order, this Indiana mom and pop restaurant was a wonderful surprise!

Netters Restaurant in Bremen, Indiana

I admit that I was apprehensive at first when I walked into the really nice, brightly lit interior–would this place serve homemade food?

Absolutely it does! Flipping through the Netters menu, there’s a lot to like.

I could not decide between the Patty Melt or the Reuben Sandwich (surprise, surprise). Apparently I am very much a creature of habit!

Menu at Netters Restaurant

Netters Restaurant Menu: Bremen, Indiana

Hubs ordered Fried Mushrooms and a Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. He does love a good Philly!

I finally narrowed it down to the Patty Melt–and a side of fries. But next time…that Reuben Sandwich is getting crossed off the list.

If I can keep myself from getting that yummy Patty Melt again, that is!

After receiving our order, well, let’s just say that Netters Restaurant ranks up there as one of my all-time faves. From start to finish, it was delicious.

A Family Affair

Netters Restaurant Patty Melt in Bremen, Indiana

When I told hubs that my fries were amazing, the owner mentioned that up until I ordered them they were still a potato! Now how is that for fresh?

Hubs boasted that his Fried Mushrooms were the best he had ever had! Days later and he’s still going on about the greatness of those mushrooms!

In fact, the owner mentioned that everything they make is made to order and always fresh. It shows! There’s a lot of care taken in the preparation of each and every dish.

Go There

The owners have six kids–one of which was helping that very night. Support a family restaurant and you support a family!

You absolutely need to check it out. There’s even a bonus: Free Wi-Fi! Now how’s that for a great Indiana town hangout?

Find Netters Restaurant images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Netters Restaurant
1106 West Plymouth Street
Bremen, Indiana 46506
574,546.4225

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Tuna Casserole Recipe

While this Tuna Casserole recipe isn’t the prettiest final product ever–comfort food never is–rest assured that it is delicious!

I think the addition of mayonnaise is what makes this so good. In our home, no one is upset when this one is served. Kid #2 often proclaims, “Mmm mmm!”

Make it tonight and see for yourself. Easy, simple, and filling, it may just become a regular in your recipe rotation too!

Tuna Casserole Recipe

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