South Jersey's Sober Party Girl

If your Galentine’s didn’t include historic charm, life-changing mac and cheese, and bread pudding that altered your brain chemistry… did you even Galentine? The last time I was in Smithville it was 78 degrees, the sun was shining, and we were living our best summer lives at the Heart of Surfing Fundraiser at Fred and Ethels . Now? We’re tracking a blizzard and panic-buying salt like it’s a competitive sport. South Jersey really keeps us humble. But before the snowpocalypse threatens our weekend plans (I hope it doesn't make next week’s blog awkward 🙃), let’s talk about the absolute dream that was my Galentine’s weekend. Galentine’s at the Smithville Inn Valentine’s Day was reserved for my forever gal: my mom. We treated ourselves to lunch at the iconic Smithville Inn , located in the heart of the Towne of Historic Smithville. A little history moment (because we love a place with character): originally built in 1787 by James Baremore as a one-room stop along a stagecoach route, t...

What do you want to do tonight? For the first time in my life, I had a real answer! The local nonprofit organization Heart of Surfing was hosting a fun and lively fundraising event at Historic Smithville’s Fred and Ethel's Lantern Light Restaurant and Tavern. We parked in their dirt lot and walked up to Heart of Surfing lighting up Historic Smithville with raffles, mocktails, mermaids, and music—all in support of a great cause.  After dropping in some raffle tickets into the fishbowl of prizes, we went to enjoy dinner. On our way we ran into organizers Cindy and Bob Fertsch! The Fertsch family started Heart of Surfing for their son, Jamie, who loved to ride the waves. Heart of Surfing is dedicated to creating positive, inclusive experiences for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Through recreational activities like surfing, skateboarding, scootering, roller skating, ice skating, and more, they provide opportunities for fun, confidence-building, and commun...