Easy Baked Ravioli, Mikie's Father's Day, Back Popping AND Facebook Stuff (Nine Amazing Places to Stay Overnight in Alabama)

Good Thursday evening!

RANDOMNESS #1 - We celebrated Mike's Father's Day this past Sunday at AllSteak in Cullman. Everyone in our immediate family was able to attend, so that was the best part as far as I was concerned.

And even on Father's Day, I am the one you want to make happy.

Am I right?


We found out Judith is a fan of their Orange Fluff...

Which means we'll be having Orange Fluff at Nana B's house on a regular basis now.


Austin and Josh were both given the traditional Father's Day tie from me and Mikie. I doubt we'll give them Father's Day gifts every year from now on since they aren't OUR fathers, but it seemed like the right thing to do for their very first official Father's Day.






I think Mikie's a very blessed man.


Judith is a pro when it comes to waving good-bye...

And giving kisses...

And playing in puddles...

And running barefoot through the grass.

And just generally making us feel very, very happy.

All of which I think is listed in her Job Description under "What Does a Baby Bring to the Table?"

RANDOMNESS #2 - Yesterday I was a little stiff.

Not unlike I felt this past Monday, Tuesday...

Or 2015.

Unfortunately, I made the mistake of mentioning it to The Chick, and she assured me she could "pop" my back and I would feel much, much better.

I don't know what went wrong in my mature-almost-55-year-old mind, but after a few minutes of explaining and coaxing from The Chick, I found myself facedown on the den floor.

Voluntarily, mind you.

Definitely voluntarily.

She then proceeded to apply pressure with both hands ever so slowly on my back.

I don't know if what I felt was pain, but I didn't hear the FOUR pops in my back because of the bellowing...

My bellowing.

Roxie sat back and grinned. "There! How do you feel?"

I was unable to answer right away because of the collapsed lung, but after half an hour or so, I was able to stand and sit and walk around unassisted.

"Are you still stiff?" she asked before I went to bed.

"Oh, yeah," I replied. "Still stiff. But it's okay. Stiff is good. Stiff is doable. Stiff is who I am at this particular stage of life."

What I didn't tell her...

I really wasn't as stiff.

However, the trauma of becoming less stiff is lodged in my brain somewhere, and I doubt I will EVER allow anyone to de-stiff me again.

Ever.

Especially a 19 year-old chiropractor wanna be...

No matter how cute!

I'm going to file this little story under "Lesson Learned."

Easy Baked Lasagna

You will need the following:

25 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (keep the pasta frozen)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups spaghetti sauce
Parmesan cheese, to taste

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

2. Pour 1 cup of the spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a 9" x 13" dish. Layer with half of the frozen ravioli and half of the mozzarella cheese.

3. Layer the other half of the frozen ravioli, remaining cup of spaghetti sauce and remaining cup of mozzarella cheese over top.

4. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

5. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 30 minutes. Remove tin foil and continue to cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Sometimes I will turn the oven up to broil at the very end for a minute to brown the top a little bit more, but that's not necessary.

NOTE FROM ENCHANTING BELINDA - I am going to add a layer of browned and seasoned ground chuck, AND a layer of canned Italian-style chopped tomatoes next time. Not because it wasn't good, but because I want to play with the recipe a little bit!

Facebook Stuff

Nine Amazing Places to Stay Overnight in Alabama Without Breaking the Bank

1. AnchorLight Bed and Breakfast - 251 County Road 881, Crane Hill, Alabama 35053 - AnchorLight Bed and Breakfast is one of Alabama's most unique bed and breakfast inns. After all, it's not every day you see a bed and breakfast that resembles a light house. AnchorLight Bed and Breakfast is located on Smith Lake and is open year-round. Guests can stay in its popular T. S. Fowler Room for $150 per night.

2. Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa - 4000 Grand Avenue, Birmingham, Alabama 35226 - This amazing resort is perfect for a romantic getaway. It offers everything from a luxurious spa to a championship golf course. It has a nightly rate of $199 and is more than worth it!

3. Floating Cabins - Lake Guntersville - These family-friendly cabins literally float on the water. They're located at Spring Creek Marina, not far from Wintzell's Oyster House. The average nightly rate to rent one of these cabins is $83.

4. Malaga Inn – 359 Church Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602 - The Malaga Inn connects two townhouses that were built in 1862. This historic inn offers 39 private rooms and suites, and it has a nightly rate that's as little as $108.90.

5. The Jack Warner at NorthRiver - 2700 Yacht Club Way Northeast, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406 - The Jack Warner at NorthRiver is an upscale hotel that's located within 20 minutes of the University of Alabama campus. It features 55 rooms, and on the property sits four tennis courts and a picnic area. There's also a golf course nearby. Guests can stay at this hotel for a nightly rate of $169.

6. The Westin Huntsville - 6800 Governors West, Huntsville, Alabama 35806 - The Westin Huntsville is surrounded by Bridge Street Town Centre which is one of Alabama's top shopping destinations. It offers 210 beautiful guest rooms and an indoor/outdoor pool. For $199 per night, you'll definitely get what you pay for when you stay at this amazing hotel!

7. The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa - 26 North Royal Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602 - Located in downtown Mobile and built in 1908, this historic hotel features 238 guest rooms and suites with a nightly rate of $169. It's the perfect place to stay if you plan to spend a lot of time in Mobile's Downtown Historic District.

8. The Secret Bed & Breakfast Lodge (Treehouse) - 2356 Alabama 68 West, Leesburg, Alabama 35983 - The Secret Bed & Breakfast Lodge is located on top of Lookout Mountain and is the perfect place for an overnight stay. The Treehouse includes a queen bed and a Jacuzzi with a shower. At only $125 per night, you'll enjoy incredible views and be reminded of your childhood if you choose to stay overnight in the Treehouse.

9. Winston Place Bed & Breakfast - 353 Railroad Avenue, Valley Head, Alabama 35989 - If you book a room at Winston Place Bed & Breakfast, you'll be staying at one of Alabama's most beautiful antebellum mansions. This bed and breakfast is located between Chattanooga, Birmingham and Atlanta, and the nightly rates start at $149.

NOTE FROM ENCHANTING BELINDA - I have stayed at The Westin Huntsville and it is wonderful. Perfect for one night or an entire weekend. I've also seen the Malaga Inn in Mobile AND The Jack Warner at NorthRiver. They are both on my "list."

Y'all have a great Thursday. I'll talk to you soon.

Sincerely,

The Enchanting Belinda

Mikie's Birthday, Judith Goes to the Splash Pad, The Birmingham List Contest AND Facebook Stuff (Eleven GREAT Mom and Pop Restaurants in Alabama)

Good Wednesday evening!

RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie turned 55 Monday.

It's a big number, isn't it?

I can say that because I am only 54...

Which everyone knows is only a semi-big number.


Roxie had Auburn friends visiting from here and yon this past weekend, so when we ate with the girls at Habaneros after church Sunday, we decided to let the waiters put the big hat on Mike and sing him a pre-Happy Birthday song.

I think he wore the hat very well.


Later that afternoon, the family came over for cake and ice cream...

And presents.

It isn't a birthday without presents.


And a big birthday grin from Miss Judith!

RANDOMNESS #2 - Not only did Judith come to the party, but she spent the night!

Aunt Roxie and I took her to the Splash Pad for an hour before lunch, and great fun was had by all...

But mainly me, I think.






She preferred the "short" sprinklers at the pad.






And right after I took this picture, she wasn't allowed to partake of the Splash Pad water any longer.


After the Splash Pad fun, we headed home, dried off, changed clothes...

And I activated the curls.




The Little Chick is pretty in pink, isn't she?

The Birmingham List Contest

I told Roxie whenever she had girls home from college, I was going to have a list of fun Birmingham-type things to do for each one of them.

The goal is to visit The Faulkner House, AND cross as many items off the list in FOUR YEARS (or upon Graduation) as humanly possible.

The girl(s) who cross off the largest number of activities/places/restaurants, etc. in that length of time will receive special gift(s).

Our guests this weekend put a dent in the list of 99!


Susan, Roxie, Miranda and Julianna.


Visiting Vulcan...


AND picking fresh blueberries were just two of the things the girls did this weekend.

Going to the drive-in, shopping at The Shops at Grand River, eating Insomnia Cookies and trying a new breakfast restaurant were a few more.

Facebook Stuff

Eleven GREAT Mom and Pop Restaurants in Alabama

Alabama is home to several large restaurant chains, but there’s something very special about a local “mom and pop” restaurant. The owners/servers really go out of their way to make you feel at home. Also, their made-from-scratch dishes are incredible!

1. Giuseppe’s Cafe – 925 8th Street South, Birmingham - Giuseppe's Cafe is a casual cafe that serves classic Italian favorites, including lasagna, pizza and meatball subs. Delicious dishes, large portions and excellent prices keep customers coming back for more.

2. D’Road Cafe – 121 Montgomery Street, Montgomery - D'Road Cafe offers its guests healthy Latin comfort food in a welcoming environment. All of the dishes are homemade, and you'll feel right at home the moment you step through the door.

3. Old Greenbrier Restaurant - 27028 Old Highway 20, Madison - Southern-style cooking is what you'll get at this restaurant. Their catfish is some of the best you'll ever eat. It's DELICIOUS!

4. Kitty’s Kafe – 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores - Take a break from the beach and grab a bite to eat at Kitty's Kafe. Kitty's Kafe specializes in country cooking and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is served all day.

5. Mudtown Eat & Drink - 3144 Green Valley Road, Birmingham - For delicious Southern and Cajun cuisine, a visit to Mudtown Eat & Drink is a must. Their food is delicious, and their prices and service can't be beat.

6. Betty Mae's Restaurant - 1222 Grace Street, Northwest, Huntsville - Betty Mae's is your typical "meat and three" restaurant. If you plan to grab a bite to eat here during lunch, be sure to arrive early. This local favorite is very popular during lunch hours.

7. Jesse’s Restaurant – 14770 Oak Street, Magnolia Springs - Jesse's Restaurant is a wonderful steakhouse on the Gulf Coast. The chefs' innovative creations keep the customers coming back for more.

8. Uncle Mick’s Cajun Market & Cafe – 136 West Main Street, Prattville - Uncle Mick's serves authentic Cajun cuisine in a fun environment. All of their dishes are made from scratch daily, and they encourage their customers to sample a variety of their entrees before ordering to make sure they like them. After all, not everyone likes crawfish or alligator. It's great that they let you sample the food beforehand.

9. Capeside Fish Company - 726 West Grand Avenue, Rainbow City - At Capeside Fish Company, you'll be served only the freshest seafood that's prepared by using the finest ingredients. The dishes are made-to-order, and there's also a market if you wish to purchase fresh seafood to go.

10. Effina's Tuscan Grille - 501 Pelham Road, North - Jacksonville - Effina's Tuscan Grille serves authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. There's something on the menu for everyone.

11. Big Daddy's Real Pit Bar-B-Que - 205 North Rawls Street, Enterprise - Big Daddy's Real Pit Bar-B-Que is a family owned and operated restaurant that's known for its real pit barbecue (hence the name). In a welcoming environment, it serves up some of the best barbecue in town.

NOTE FROM ENCHANTING BELINDA - I have eaten at Effina's Tuscan Grille on more than one occasion, and it is VERY good. I will try to cross a few of these other places off the list in the near future.

Well, that's all I have this lovely Wednesday. I'll talk to you again in a few days.

Sincerely,

The Enchanting Belinda

MotherWalk, Blog Linkage, Pinterest Stuff (Verses for Anxiety) AND Peach Cobbler Dump Cake

Good Saturday morning!

RANDOMNESS #1 - First and foremost, The Chick is back in town...




And Tuck and I are very happy campers!

RANDOMNESS #2 - Our family attended MotherWalk this past Saturday. This was our fifth consecutive walk and Team Tootsie was 16 strong.


Roxie finished first in the 5K for her age category...


And Courtney finished second in the 5K for her age category.


Judith decided to skip the 5K and concentrate on bulking up for the Fun Run/Walk.


Zac and Mallie.


Judith and Uncle Austin.

Fun Runs are obviously "serious business" as far as Miss Judith is concerned.


Except for the time or two Pop or Uncle Austin scooped her up for a ride on their shoulders, Judith walked the Fun Run just fine, thank you very much!


This year, MotherWalk recognized the first, second and third place winners of each age category with a medal.


Courtney and Roxie were pretty excited...

As was Zac.


This was our group. The lady on the far left is one of my Mom's chemo nurses, and we welcomed her photobomb.

You may have noticed we were missing Stephanie and Josh.

Stephanie was attending a family baby shower, and Josh was working his new job.

They were both definitely there in spirit.

We ended the event with a big ol' family lunch at Cracker Barrel and declared our fifth MotherWalk a huge success!

RANDOMNESS #3 - I've included some pics from my great-nephew's first birthday party. Micah turned one, and the theme for his party was BASEBALL!






Can you believe Matthew is eight years-old?


Amber and the Birthday Boy.


Big sister, Mackenzie.


The curls...


They slay me!

Blog Linkage - Go to www.kellehampton.com and read her post "Splish, Splash, Arts & Crafts." Her daughter, Lainey turned 9 and there are some really good ideas if you have a child with a summer birthday.

After you go to the website, type the title of the post in the Search Box. It will take you where you want to go.

Pinterest Stuff

Verses for Anxiety

Since I am sufferer of the anxiety, I use these verses OFTEN!

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:25-34

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:18

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

Facebook Stuff

The Chick loves waterfalls.

And she loves to hike to them.

Personally, I enjoy the occasional waterfall, too.

But I like the waterfalls you find at the end of a lovely, winding well-paved road...

That you drive The Big Gold Van upon...

Looking for said waterfall.

She and I have decided to agree to disagree on which method is best.

I found this list on Facebook of seven waterfalls in Alabama. I don't know if she will see them all this Summer, but she's going to give it a try.

And I am going to support her!

1. Moss Rock Preserve – Hoover, Alabama - Moss Rock Preserve is a beautiful 349-acre nature preserve filled with forest systems, rock outcroppings, several species of wildlife and picturesque waterfalls.

2. Noccalula Falls - Gadsden, Alabama - This breathtaking waterfall is the main feature of Noccalula Falls Park, and it cascades 90 feet over a Lookout Mountain ledge and into a lush ravine.

3. Little River Falls - Fort Payne, Alabama - Little River Falls is located within Little River Canyon National Preserve. The formation of Little River Canyon begins at this lovely 45-foot waterfall.

4. DeSoto Falls - Mentone, Alabama - DeSoto Falls is a magnificent 104-foot waterfall that's formed where the West Fork of the Little River plunges from a Lookout Mountain cliff. It's considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the South.

5. Piney Branch Falls - Marshall County, Alabama - Piney Branch Falls is an incredible waterfall located on the outskirts of Columbus City. It's important to mention that this waterfall is located on private property. The owners live on site, so be sure to ask permission before checking out the waterfall.

6. High Falls - Oak Grove, Alabama - High Falls, a majestic waterfall that's formed by Town Creek, is a hidden gem that's tucked away in a remote Sand Mountain hideaway. High Falls is 35 feet high, and at times it spans more than 300 feet across.

7. Turkey Creek Falls - Pinson, Alabama - Turkey Creek Falls is a fine example of the incredible scenery that can be found within Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, a 466-acre preserve that protects some of the most beautiful areas in the Southeast.

Peach Cobbler Dump Cake

You will need the following:

3 cans peaches in heavy syrup
1 package yellow cake mix
1/2 cup butter, melted

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a 13" x 9" baking dish, dump 2 cans of peaches and syrup. Drain the third can and add only the peaches to the baking dish.

3. Top peaches with dry cake mix, and spread it evenly across the entire surface of peaches.

4. Drizzle cake mix with butter.

5. Bake 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until top is deep golden brown and fruit is bubbly. Dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream before serving, if desired.

Variations - Prepare as recipe directs, except:

For PRALINE PECAN PEACH COBBLER DUMP CAKE, in a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar and 1-1/2 cups chopped pecans. Sprinkle over butter before baking.

For RASPBERRY CREAM PEACH COBBLER DUMP CAKE, top with fresh raspberries and whipped cream before serving.

For SALTED CARAMEL PEACH COBBLER DUMP CAKE, top each portion with a drizzle of hot caramel sauce and a small pinch of coarse sea salt before serving.

For TOASTED ALMOND PEACH COBBLER DUMP CAKE, sprinkle 1/2 cup sliced almonds evenly over butter before baking.

Okay, Guys. Have a great weekend, and I'll be back very soon with a little of this and a lot of that!

Sincerely,

The Enchanting Belinda

Mother's Day in Oxford, Facebook Stuff (15 Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants) AND Mountain Dew Cake

Good Wednesday evening!

RANDOMNESS #1 - When we visited Mrs. Faulkner this past Sunday for Mother's Day, our visit coincided with my great-niece and great-nephew's visit.

I was a little bit thrilled about the coincidence.

Here are just a few pics of our Mother's Day visit to Oxford this past Sunday.


The only thing cuter than an upside down baby...


Is a curled-up-on-the-floor-toe-holding baby.

Am I right?


Mackenzie has the perfect profile for the high ponytail.


Grandpa and Mackenzie.

RANDOMNESS #2 - Remember this guy.


Yep.

That's Tucker...

WAY back in December.


This is Tucker today.

I have a Tucker story if you have the time.

Last week, I took The Tuckster to the vet for a check-up.

I left in plenty of time to arrive early (no small feat for me), but when I went to the gate to put his leash on, I was met by our backyard neighbor's pit bull, Delores.

DISCLAIMER - I know Delores isn't her real name, but we started calling her that when she first arrived, and it stuck.

Delores had dup a big hole under her fence, ESCAPED and had come to our gate to play with Tuck.

My first thought was to put her inside our fence while we were gone so she would be safe.

My second thought was to NOT put her inside our fence in case she dug a HUGE hole that Tuck would use at a later date.

My third thought was to take her home, but where I had once been SO early, I was now SO late.

I called the proper "people," and when we returned home, Delores was safe and sound in her own space.

I am sorry to say, things went downhill from there.

Tuck was FANTASTIC on the ride to the vet.

He was equally FANTASTIC getting out of The Big Gold Van and walking into the lobby of the vet's office.

He went INSANE upon entering the lobby and seeing two well-behaved beagles.

So INSANE...

Well...

Long story, slightly shorter...

I kind of ended up on the floor of the lobby of our vet's office.

And while it is a very clean vet office...

It is still, and will always be, a floor where dozens...

NAY...

Hundreds of animals visit every single day.

Between moppings.

Don't get me wrong.

Tucker meant no harm to the beagle duo. He just wanted to play with new friends.

I could just tell from the beagles' owner's face, it wasn't going to end well, so I decided we would wait for our appointment outside on the bench.

In theory, this would have worked great, but a pick-up truck chose that exact moment to pull into the parking lot. Out of the pick-up truck hopped an average-sized man and a HUGE German Shepherd-type dog.

HUGE!

The dog couldn't see Tuck from his vantage point, but I choose to think he sensed his presence.

Otherwise, I would have to admit he wanted to eat me.

It took everything the average-sized man could do to hold him back, and he apologetically explained to me, "He doesn't play well with other dogs."

I wanted to ask, "How does he do with humans?"

But it was pretty apparent.

The man decided to wait in his pick-up truck.

I decided to wait in the lobby.

I felt it was a good decision for all concerned.

By the time our appointment was over, my black jeans were covered in dog hair from my time spent on the lobby floor...

My shirt was "I-just-fell-off-the-pier-into-the-lake" wet...

And Tucker was exhausted.

He climbed into the back of The Big Gold Van, curled into a ball and promptly fell into a very sound sleep.

I felt the same way, except I probably would have had a good cry before promptly falling asleep.

All that being said, Tucker is one sweet, lovable 41-pound-and-growing pup.

And we love him.

A lot.




Maybe not as much as well-behaved Eunice...

But still a lot!

Facebook Stuff

Even if I wasn't a lover of all lists, this would still intrigue me!

15 Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants In Alabama That Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away

1. Big Spring Cafe - Huntsville - Big Spring Cafe opened in 1928, making it Huntsville's oldest operating Cafe. It's also known as the "Home of the Greasy Burger."

2. Down South BBQ - Foley - Down South BBQ serves some of the best barbecue on the Gulf Coast. This BBQ joint offers includes BBQ plates, delicious side dishes and their famous cornbread sandwiches.

3. Mrs. B's Home Cooking - Montgomery - Mrs. B's Home Cooking features down-home, Southern cooking that's served cafeteria style. Customers simply enter the food line, grab a tray and load up on delicious meats and vegetables. Everything is delicious at this popular Southern-style restaurant.

4. Po Boy Factory - Huntsville - Po Boy Factory is a Cajun and New Orleans seafood restaurant that's well known for its delicious made-from-scratch dishes. Most of the dishes from their menu cost less than $10, which include popular food items such as po boys, shrimp, jambalaya and oysters.

5. La Placita Mexican Grill - Madison - La Placita Mexican Grill is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the Madison area. The portions are huge, prices are great and the service can't be beat. What more could you ask for?

6. Flip Flop Deli Shop - Gulf Shores - Flip Flop Deli Shop is a great place to grab a bite to eat during lunch. Don't forget to get some of their delicious ice cream before you leave.

7. The Choice Restaurant - Gadsden - The Choice Restaurant, located in downtown Gadsden, is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. Everything is homemade and the prices are very reasonable. You won't leave disappointed.

8. Greenbrier Restaurant - Madison - Greenbrier Restaurant is a local favorite that specializes in catfish, barbecue and seafood. Due to the diversity of Greenbrier's menu, there's something available for everyone.

9. Kitchen on George - Mobile - Kitchen on George is one of Mobile's finest restaurants. It's located within the Oakleigh Garden Historic District and the incredible dishes are created from locally sourced ingredients.

10. The Garage Cafe - Birmingham - The Garage Cafe features an amazing courtyard. When it comes to food, their specialty sandwiches are incredible!

11. Archibald's BBQ - Northport - Archibald's BBQ is best known for their amazing ribs. According to "USA Today" and "Good Morning America," they have some of the best ribs in America.

12. Taqueria El Cazador - Huntsville - Taqueria El Cazador is a Mexican restaurant that's located inside of a bus. What makes this restaurant unique is the fact guests can actually eat inside the bus, even though there's limited seating. They're best known for their tacos, but all of the menu items are delicious.

13. Sammy's Sandwich Shop - Birmingham - This family-owned and operated sandwich shop is known for serving the best burger in town. It's also a popular lunch spot among the locals.

14. Holy Smokes BBQ - Scottsboro - Holy Smokes BBQ is possibly the best BBQ joint in Scottsboro. Their fall-off-the-bone ribs are incredible, and their stuffed baked potatoes are a definite must try.

15. Tip Top Grill - Hoover - In addition to offering their guests a spectacular view, Tip Top Grill also offers delicious burgers and hot dogs. At one time, this unique restaurant was a gas station.

NOTE FROM THE ENCHANTING BELINDA - I am sad to say I have only been to Tip Top Grill. However, before Summer comes to an end, I plan on visiting The Garage Café and Sammy's Sandwich Shop here in Birmingham. I will let you know what I think!

Mountain Dew Cake

You will need the following:

1 box lemon cake mix
1 can Mountain Dew
4 eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
3 cups powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Spray Bundt pan with cooking spray.

3. With mixer, combine the cake mix, 1/4 cup Mountain Dew, eggs and vegetable oil.

4. Mix on low for 30 seconds. Turn speed up to medium and continue mixing for 2 more minutes.

5. Pour cake batter into prepared pan and bake 45 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.

6. Let cool in pan.

7. When cake has cooled, prepare glaze.

8. Mix 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Mountain Dew together in a medium bowl.

9. Stir until there are no lumps.

10. Pour the glaze over the cake.

I made this cake this week, and it was very easy and delicious.

It looked good, too.

Have a great Wednesday night. I will be back soon!

Sincerely,

The Enchanting Belinda