pottery Archives - One Delightful Life

Disclosure: Visit Kansas City Kansas sponsored this post in partnership with Midwest Travel Network. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Kansas City, Kansas, offers visitors an abundance of cultural experiences because of its diverse community. Immigrants journeyed to the heart of America, looking for a future for themselves and their families. The city’s cultural traditions and food scene are rich with heritage. Plan an overnight stay to take advantage of authentic experiences, from following The Legacy Trail to feasting on flavorful food.

I visited the city with a group of travel writers to the area to experience the city’s culture first-hand. How many of the following experiences will you check off the list?

1. VOLER – THIEVES OF FLIGHT

If you’ve witnessed aerial acrobatics and wondered if you were capable of such feats, Voler – Thieves of Flight (558 Lowell Ave.) is your chance to find out. Part of the Eastern European Journey, the academy teaches students a combination of aerial dance and acrobatics using ceiling-suspended silks. Located in a one-time Russian Orthodox Church, instructors guide students step-by-step through maneuvers to lift themselves into the air.

voler instructor — The facility was once a Greek Orthodox women’s church with a speakeasy in the basement that served vodka.

Although I had to sit out during the class, I watched as my travel friends warmed up by stretching and conducting breathing exercises. Soon, they were standing with colorful silk fabric in hand learning the basics of foot locks and climbing. It was a major test of strength and flexibility.

Do you think you’ve got what it takes to test your balance and core strength? Voler – Thieves of Flight Voler offers private group classes and ongoing classes on a weekly basis. To sign up for an Aerial Silks session, click here.

2. VIETNAM CAFÉ

Vietnam Café (39324 Rainbow Blvd) is the story of success. The new location opened its doors on May 2022 to serve loyal customers heaping bowls of pho, curry, and rice platters. I ordered a large bowl of piping hot pho with beef without hesitation. It arrived with a side plate of Thai basil and sprouts to add to the pho at my discretion.

pho — Pho is a broth-based soup with noodles, protein, and vegetables.

Our table’s conversation was lively between bites of shared appetizers and dinner entreés. I learned that Vietnamese families represent a large portion of the community having immigrated to the area at the end of the Vietnam War. Further study taught me that Vietnamese refugees to the American Great Plains sought manufacturing or other jobs in Kansas City.

I encourage you to dine at Vietnam Café to try a food you’ve never tried while learning more about the culture. View the restaurant’s Facebook page for details.

3. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop

I can’t think of a better way to start a day of exploring Kansas City, Kansas than dining at a locally-owned coffee shop. Oh, wait! Yes, I can. Add authentic tamales and it’s way better. Three Bees Pottery & Coffee Shop (925 Southwest Blvd) is a quaint eatery specializing in homemade meat and vegan tamales paired with gourmet coffee drinks.

If you’ve not enjoyed tamale, you can expect shredded chicken, pork, or beef in sauce wrapped in masa inside a corn husk. The dish is representative of traditional food brought to the states by Mexican immigrant populations. Masa is a soft dough made from ground corn that takes on a slightly sweet yet savory flavor.

tamales — The new owners of Three Bees Pottery and Coffee Shop celebrated the business’s one-year anniversary in September 2022.

I ordered a Dirty Horchata served hot to accompany my meal. A cinnamon vanilla rice drink with a double espresso was served in a vibrant handmade coffee cup. The interior of the cafe is visually stunning as it is filled with colorful pottery from Mexico. All of it is marked for sale, so keep your eyes peeled for a gem to take home with you.

View the coffee shop’s hours and menu via its Facebook page.

4. The Legacy Trail

Visit Kansas City created The Legacy Trail, a mapped-out journey used for self-guided audio tours throughout the city. At each location, users of the app simply tap the screen to play back narrated stories that explain the site’s cultural significance. Latino, Eastern European, Black Heritage, Indigenous People, and Modern Immigrants are referenced on the trail.

Kansas City’s agricultural roots are recognized by statues located in the city’s West Bottoms neighborhood. Stockyards Brewing Co. is a sought-after steakhouse and taproom in the area.

To access The Legacy Trail, visit this website. Complete all five journeys and you can win a KCK t-shirt and your name will be included on the KCK Legacy Trail Wall of Fame.

Our group visited the Central Avenue Betterment Association (CABA) (1303 Central Ave.) Anthology of Argentine Mural, and Eagles Nest. At CABA, we learned how a small staff works diligently with the help of community sponsors to support diverse and inclusive programs and events like the Day of the Dead Celebration. On the day of our visit, staff member and volunteers hurriedly prepared for the Dia De Los Muertos parade. A makeup artist was on-hand to apply face paint to Catrinas who planned to walk in the parade. When our bus stopped at the Anthology of Argentine Mural (30th & Woodland), my jaw dropped open in shock. The massive mural is a city block long and uses vivid imagery to tell the tale of the Argentine neighborhood and its history. The narrative story sets the scene complete with natural sounds like railroad trains, industrialization, and rainfall. Its imagery will give you pause and like me, may evoke an emotional response.

We drove to a historic two-story stone building near railroad tracks and a baseball field, which has served as the headquarters for American Legion Post 213 “Eagles Nest” since the 1940s.The nondescript building was constructed because the community needed a place where Latinos could gather without discrimination. In the early 1900s, it served as a Methodist mission and school. Years later, the outside of the building contrasts greatly with the interior’s design which features a sports bar where locals gather to enjoy game day.

5. Jarocho’s Pescados y Mariscos

Continue the cultural journey to a cozy spot where high-quality Mexican seafood is served, Jarocho’s (719 Kansas Ave.). You can’t miss the building’s brightly painted facade featuring murals with ocean scenes.

seafood dinner — Jarocho’s is known for serving Pacific-style Mexican seafood.

It’s a hidden gem, or the kind of restaurant locals know and dare not tell others about because then their go-to places become crowded. Bring your appetite and prepare to be wowed by fresh seafood dishes like Shrimp Chipotle, Fire Grilled Trout, and Seafood Paella. They didn’t win Best Seafood and Best Mexican food by Feast magazine for nothing.

6. Day of the Dead Celebration

Dia De Los Muertos translated to Day of the Dead is a time of celebration for the Latino community in Kansas City, Kansas. The day remembers friends and family members who have died and the life they lived. In fact, the Mexican holiday dates back hundreds of years.

It’s one of the most festive celebrations I’ve attended. Vendors line both sides of Central Avenue offering the best in gifts and authentic Mexican food dinners. The smell of freshly grilled meat lingers in the air.As you walk the route, you encounter live bands performing Latin pop and regional Mexican music in front of small groups of onlookers. Women dressed as Catrinas wear makeup resembling skeletons ad flowing gowns with hats or elaborate headdresses.I was asked if I wanted to ride in the parade inside a decorated bus that played authentic music (see pictured). “Yes, of course!” From the bus, we threw candy to eager children and waved at families. Dancers led our path down the street. Everyone was in good spirits laughing, eating authentic food, dancing, and singing. The festival is one you don’t want to miss.

7. URBAN HIKE THROUGH STRAWBERRY HILL & DOWNTOWN KCK

The following morning, our group enjoyed coffee and pastries at Splitlog Coffee Co. (548 Central Ave.) before meeting our Urban Hikes KC tour guide. The plan? To walk a 4.5-mile hike through the city’s Eastern European neighborhood along the Legacy Trail and learn about the immigrants who founded businesses and churches in the area.

Strawberry Hill Mural — This mural features Strawberry Hill’s founder, Mathias Splitlog, a Wyandotte Indian who arrived in 1843. He was an entrepreneur who established the first flour mill. Fun Fact: He spoke seven languages.

The guided tour is the best way to explore the city’s history while learning in-depth historical facts about each destination. While the route may be long, the pace is moderate and there are only a couple of steep streets – and it offers some of the best views of the Kansas City skyline.

An Urban Hikes KC tour guide discussed — JT Daniels, a local artist, painted the mural on the side of The Merc. During the urban tour, the guide addressed the difference between a “food desert” and a “food swamp.”

From Russian Hill to Strawberry Hill and downtown Kansas City to the Wyandotte Native American National Burial Ground, the guide highlights the stories of ethnic groups. It is the most effective way to learn about the city’s culture.

Why is the neighborhood called Strawberry Hill? After the great flood of 1903, residents of the area discovered strawberries growing on the hill. The fruit is also considered sacred to the Wyandotte tribe people.

A number of churches were erected during the time of European immigration to the area. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, built in 1890, is the oldest Catholic parish in Kansas City. At present day, it is a parish that is known for its cultural diversity. A community-driven garden sits in its shadow where fruits and vegetables are grown and donated to residents.

community garden — Actor Eric Stonestreet, originally from Kansas City, donated the windmill to the project. He is best known for his appearance on the TV show, Modern Family.

I appreciate learning about the hard-working families who made the location what it is today, including the Loose Brothers who opened the Takhoma Biscuit Company. The name was updated to Sunshine Biscuit Company in 1946 and was considered the largest bakery in the city. Keebler eventually bought it, and now it is owned by Kellogg’s.

Did you know that 85% of the world’s Cheez-It crackers are produced in Kansas City?

Time permitting, you should plan extra time to take a guided tour of Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center (720 N. 4th St.) where you can learn about the ethnic groups that settled in the area. Each room of the mansion built in 1887 tells the story of the city’s earliest residents. Note: You can buy tickets to the Olde World Christmas Tour during the holidays.

St. John’s Park, across the street from the museum, has a top-notch view of the city’s skyline. Bring your dog! A grassy area is dedicated to four-legged family members.

I have no doubt that you’ll appreciate Kansas City’s traditions and food scene as much as I did. To truly get to know a place, you have to understand its history. Of course, these seven cultural experiences merely scratch the surface of Kansas City’s can’t-miss destinations. Endless learning awaits. Take a moment to downtown The Taco Trail app and The Legacy Trail app created by Visit Kansas City, Kansas prior to your visit. Let this guide and the mobile apps help you enjoy an immersive cultural tour of the city – an unforgettable experience.

If you appreciated this post, you may also want to check out a second blog post “Essential Stops in Kansas City, Kansas” that features more attractions, restaurants, and notable shopping destinations.

My mom is quite talented at a lot of things. When guests come over she rolls out the red carpet with the some of the most delicious meals. Even if you’ve dropped by the house mid-day, she’ll serve you a delicious cheese and fruit platter and pour you a glass of Chardonnay. Yea, she’s that kind of hostess.

But don’t be surprised if you knock on the door and she doesn’t answer. She’s most likely outside in her custom built garden house doing what she does best…gardening. Make no mistake. This is no She Shed. She refuses to let people label it as such. This is a real-deal garden house where she spends time cultivating her craft – making her gardens flourish. Whether she is sitting in the screened in porch chair reading about rose bushes or potting plants in the stainless steel sink, her green thumb is at work.

Located behind my parent’s home, mom’s garden house often entices strangers driving by to stop and ask to see it.

It seems only fair that my step-dad, who has his own woodworking shop, would build a garden house for her, right? The 8’x12′ house (not including the 5’x12′ screened in porch) includes the same amenities that any home would have including running water and electricity. During the winter it houses plants she wants to keep alive from the outdoor elements and during the summer the sun beams in on oversized house plants.

I recognize quite a bit of my mom’s style in her garden house’s design from the upcycled screen door to the ceiling light fixture that she held on to for years until this house was built.

Mom’s garden house is an extension of her own home. The interior’s neutral colors, off-set by the bright white counter tops and trimmed windows, includes various green hues from decorative additions and dark black metal pieces. Having collected many of the sitabouts over time, she decorates in a style more sophisticated than rustic farmhouse but less stuffy than classic traditional. She has an eclectic sense of design style that is uniquely her own.

Once inside the screened in porch, glass French doors remain welcome you into a spacious window lit space.

Muted green wicker chairs flank both sides of the screened in porch to the east and the west.

When not busy nurturing plants, she uses the garden house as a quiet refuge to read or just watch her many bird feeders in the yard over a glass of wine. When friends visit on occasion, like her Bunco gal pals, it serves as a getaway space to venture to between games for a quick tour. You can hear the women audibly dote over each detail of the garden house. They want one too. Who wouldn’t?

A serious gardner needs a space to pour over the details found in gardening books. Always the humble student, my mom enjoys learning why some plants and flowers flourish and how she can attract or eliminate insects.

Mom’s appreciation of nature goes back as far as I can remember.

“It (gardening) feeds my soul in a way nothing else does. I’m connected to plants in new says every year,” she said recently.

My childhood was spent watching her in the yard with her hands in the dirt on weekends. After coming home from school we would drag around the hose to water thick, layered flower beds of all colors and varieties. Sunflowers towered over our heads and wildflowers nestled at our feet. She would tell me about butterflies that she adored and the grasshoppers that broke her heart.

Today, she still sees beauty in the colors of delicate flowers and enjoys the harvest of a vegetable or herb garden. Her accepted challenge each year is to learn about the needs of plant placement in her landscape while always attempting to attract birds, bees, and insects.

Antique pottery and her favorite pieces adorn a shelf above the door inside the garden house.

The east side of the garden house exposes an area behind it where she also pots plants and flowers.

The wooden table on the right was her only potting station at our old house.

Gardening is not easy. She admits that the challenge is to find the balance between what she wants to plant and what nature will allow. Admittedly, she says there are more failures to learn every season and enough small successes to keep her happy.

I love spring and wish it lasted longer, she says.

It’s true. She smiles the most in the spring (with college basketball season in a close second place). When the weather begins to warm up and the days spring forward, she is more outdoors than she is indoors. I often call her to wish her a “Happy Spring” only for it to go to voicemail because she’s outside playing in the yard.

While I love the outdoors, I’m not a natural gardener. I struggle to keep plants alive. I either over or under water them. Completely forget about them. I never installed the proper drip system. Can a person’s “green thumb” be learned? Maybe I just wrote it off as “mom’s hobby.” I should have really paid more attention when helping her in the yard as a teen. Just last week I called her seeking advice about our sad rose bushes. Before I knew it, I was at her house on my hands and knees pruning her rose bushes while she used wood glue on the stem ends to prevent bores for invading them again. Glue? Who knew!

A rusty garden tool serves as a door knocker on the exterior of the garden house.

I’m “foodie” thanks to my mom’s love of cooking. In fact, many of her garden harvests end up in her recipes. Ripe tomatoes are the star ingredient in her homemade gazpacho, a cool treat during a blazing hot summer day. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme find their way into many of her savory recipes. This year she has decided to trade her tomato plants for perennials because it’s just less to have to worry about and each year perennials come back stronger when given the space to spread out.

I’ve have so much to learn from her wisdom about nature, about plants and birds. As I mentioned before, I’m at best a wannabe gardener. In fact, I’ve killed so many house plants over the years that if there is every going to be any hope for me, I’m going to have to spend more time with mom in the garden house. If you’re more like me, you’ll appreciate a post she helped me write last summer 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants You Can Leave While on Vacation.

But not every day can be spent gardening. Sometimes the body needs a day of rest between the hours spent digging in unforgiving soil and pulling weeds away from flowers. On these days, she takes time to let her body relax but we all know she is still thinking about her next outdoor project.

A water drip system was installed for her window boxes, which extends to the container pots near the garden house entrance.

What can we learn from mom’s garden house? Every woman, every person, needs a space to call their own. Where they can go to escape the chaos of the day and appreciate some quiet time or just enjoy their hobby.

What is it that brings you peace? What do you enjoy learning about most? Tell me in the comments section how you pursue your hobby or where you like to spend quiet time.

7 Ways To Explore Culture in Kansas City, Kansas