Cleveland, BBQ, Rock & Roll… and a surprise from Key West 🎸🐓🌴


Hey Reader,

This past week I traded my office chair for… Cleveland! Yep, you read that right. I spent the first part of the week at a conference up there, and let me tell you—I was pleasantly surprised. The city is pretty cool, and the conference? Even better. I connected with some amazing people, soaked up tons of new ideas, and came home buzzing with fresh inspiration.

Stay tuned—you’ll see some exciting new things coming your way from this island-inspired business I’ve built, with all of your amazing support.

Of course… you know me. I can’t go anywhere without diving headfirst into the local food scene. 🍴 Cleveland did NOT disappoint. Mabel’s BBQ was so good we went twice. Yep, twice. And I have zero regrets. Smoked meats, tangy sauces, and sides that made me want to lick the plate (but I behaved… mostly).

And because balance is important—we also checked out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 🎶 Let’s just say I was like a kid in a candy store. If you’ve ever wanted to see how music history and pure fun collide, that’s the place.

🎥 Did you catch my latest YouTube video & podcast? The Fun in Key West Book Club had a live interview with none other than Lucy Burdette, the queen of the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. We had such a great chat, and she dropped a little bombshell: book #16 is officially turned in to her editor! 📚👏 Can’t wait for that one.

👉 If you missed the live chat, you can catch the replay here:

video preview

Remember—this newsletter isn’t just me talking. It’s our little corner of paradise where we share stories, swap tips, and daydream about our next island escape.

🌴 Whether you’re planning your first Key West adventure or your fiftieth, hit reply anytime. I love your questions and love helping you discover those hidden gems that make the island so special.

Here’s to BBQ, books, and the Island State of Mind. 🍹

Cheers,
Michele

P.S. What’s your “must eat” when you travel? Hit reply—I’m always looking for foodie inspiration for my next trip.