#CooperShortcutCampingJourney

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Feel the Beat of Memphis with A Tennessee Getaway

I wrote a blog entitled Discover Why Chattanooga, Tennessee Should Be Your Next Escape and another titled Experience the Magic of Nashville – Your Ultimate Music City Getaway; so let me wrap up Tennessee with a trip to Memphis. I know, I know, there are many other cities worth visiting, but we can visit them another time. Right now, it’s all about Memphis — a city where the music runs deep, the…

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Hidden Michigan, 11 Charming Towns You Need to Explore Now

When most travelers think of Michigan, the bustling tourist hubs of Traverse City or Grand Rapids often come to mind. But tucked away between the Great Lakes’ magnificent shores are quiet towns where time seems to slow down, offering a peaceful escape from the daily grind. If you’re searching for a destination brimming with charm, history, outdoor adventure, and true Americana spirit, Michigan’s…

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Must-Have Safety Upgrades for Senior RV Campers

Camping in a travel trailer has always been one of life’s simple joys—but as we get older, staying safe and comfortable takes on a whole new level of importance. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend adventurer, senior citizens deserve a stress-free, secure, and empowering camping experience. That’s why safety-enhancing gear designed with older campers in mind isn’t just a luxury—it’s a…

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Love Notes and Jazz Nights, Alice and Slick’s Roaring Twenties

In the grand symphony of time, some love stories are written in bold chords and brilliant melodies. Theirs was one of them. It began in the early 1920s, a decade of jazz, speakeasies, Model Ts, and newfound freedom. That was the world Alice Luella Banks stepped into when she became Alice Luella Cooper—the wife of Wilber Martin Cooper. Or as most folks simply called him, “Slick.” They were young.…

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Pretzel Sliders on the Rise, A Tasty Twist With Griddle History

A Bite-Sized Classic That’s Anything but Ordinary There’s something deeply satisfying about food that fits in your hand. Sliders—miniature versions of the all-American burger—have earned a permanent spot on menus, at backyard barbecues, and especially in our bellies. But just when you thought sliders couldn’t get any better, along comes a savory, salty game-changer: pretzel sliders. These compact…

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Experience the Magic of Nashville- Your Ultimate Music City Getaway

Welcome to Nashville—Where Every Street Sings There’s a reason Nashville, Tennessee, is known as “Music City.” The moment your boots hit the sidewalk, you’re surrounded by rhythm, stories, and soul. But there’s more to this Southern gem than country hits and cowboy boots. Nashville is a vibrant blend of musical heritage, modern energy, mouthwatering Southern food, and down-home charm. Whether…

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Discover Michigan’s Hidden Lakes

More Than Just the Great Lakes When you think of Michigan’s lakes, it’s easy to picture the vast, stunning coastlines of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Erie, and Lake Huron. And why not? These mighty inland seas have shaped the state’s identity, offered countless summer memories, and even influenced the weather. But for those of us who love a good backroad adventure, who crave the sound of…

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Travel Trailer Protection: Do You Really Need It All?

You finally bought the travel trailer of your dreams. The open road is calling, the campsite fire pit is waiting, and your sense of adventure is already packed. But just before you hitch up and roll out, the salesperson—or a well-meaning fellow camper—asks, “Did you get roadside assistance? What about an extended warranty? And are you protecting your rig with ceramic coating?” Suddenly, your…

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Racing Hearts and Elbows- Grandma Cooper at Spartan Speedway

If you’ve ever heard the roar of engines on a hot summer night and felt the grandstands shake with anticipation, then you’ll understand why Spartan Speedway holds a special place in my heart. But it wasn’t just the racing that made those Friday nights unforgettable—it was Grandma Cooper. And believe me, when Grandma was at the track, things got lively. Now, some months back, I shared a story…

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The Bold History of Chili Dogs + Blackstone Griddle Recipe

A Fiery Tale of Flavor: The History of Chili Dogs & How to Make Them Sizzle on a Blackstone Griddle Few foods stir up feelings of nostalgia, comfort, and backyard fun quite like the chili dog. Whether you’ve grabbed one from a roadside stand, at a ballpark, or whipped it up on your Blackstone griddle, this messy, meaty marvel has become a beloved American classic. But where did the chili dog come…

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Discover Why Chattanooga, Tennessee Should Be Your Next Escape

The Chattanooga Secret Revealed Tucked between the rolling Appalachian foothills and the winding Tennessee River, Chattanooga, Tennessee has quietly transformed into one of the most enchanting getaway destinations in the South. It’s the kind of place that surprises first-time visitors—where scenic beauty meets historic charm, where outdoor adventure collides with cool, creative culture. If you’re…

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7 Breathtaking Michigan Motorcycle Rides with Rolling Hills & Lakes

The Ride of a Lifetime Begins in Michigan If your idea of the perfect motorcycle ride includes gentle rolling hills, countryside parks, the shimmer of lakes and streams, and the magic of sunrises and sunsets painting the skies—then Michigan is calling your name. Michigan is more than a destination—it’s a journey that rewards every sense. From the lush landscapes of the Lower Peninsula to the wild…

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Travel Trailer vs. Hotel- Which Vacation Saves You More?

Discover the surprising truth behind your travel expenses in 2025. The Big Vacation Question—Which Really Costs Less? Picture this—you’re planning your next vacation. You’ve got your bucket list destinations ready, some time off work, and now you’re faced with a classic conundrum: should you hit the road in a travel trailer or book a week’s stay in a hotel? It’s a common question for travelers…

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Saturday with Grandma Cooper

A Story of Chores, Doughnuts, and Pixie Cuts It started like most Saturday mornings in our house—with the clatter of cereal bowls, the hum of conversation, and the faint hope that maybe, just maybe, the chores would disappear on their own. We were halfway through breakfast when the front door swung open and in marched Grandma Cooper with purpose. Without so much as a hello, she announced, “Come…

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Saturday with Grandma Cooper

A Story of Chores, Doughnuts, and Pixie Cuts It started like most Saturday mornings in our house—with the clatter of cereal bowls, the hum of conversation, and the faint hope that maybe, just maybe, the chores would disappear on their own. We were halfway through breakfast when the front door swung open and in marched Grandma Cooper with purpose. Without so much as a hello, she announced, “Come…

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What Is a Patty Melt? Discover the Juicy History & Recipe Now!

A Sizzling Bite of American Comfort There’s just something undeniably satisfying about biting into a hot, cheesy patty melt. It’s crispy, savory, buttery, and bursting with flavor—like the perfect marriage between a grilled cheese and a hamburger. But what exactly is a patty melt, and where did this mouthwatering masterpiece come from? In this blog post, we’re taking a deep dive into the savory…