Ashley Hinson, 25, Cedar Rapids
Anchor @ KCRG-TV9

Jules Bakery
Maybe you’re having a craving for a home baked cookie. Or perhaps you need a gourmet birthday cake for your husband at the last minute. No matter what the scenario, the baked goodies at Jules are sure to please! They are always willing to help you find exactly what you need to satisfy that sweet tooth. My favorite cake? The Ascot. Champagne cake, strawberry filling and chocolate ganache. YUM.
Jules Bakery
3201 Armar Drive, Marion
http://www.julesbakery.com/

Vinos Ristorante and RG Books
I love Italian food. I love great wine. And I love good company. Vino’s Ristorante and RG Books Lounge is the best three-fer in town. From the moment you walk in, the staff treats you like family. Whether you’re just wanting to grab a quick cocktail before heading off to the symphony or you want to settle down for a night of chatter with friends, the comfortable atmosphere delivers fantastic ambience. Comfy couches, a beautiful marble bar and, of course, books all around, make you feel like you’re in a city much bigger than Cedar Rapids.
Vinos Ristorante/RG Books Lounge
Town and Country Shopping Center, 3611 First Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids
http://www.vinosristorante.com/

1st Avenue Wine House
I consider myself somewhat of a wine connoisseur, and the 1st Avenue Wine House is a wine lover’s delight. Ron and Traci Weber, who run the place, make regular trips out to Napa, not to mention other wine rich regions around the world. My favorite is grabbing a gourmet cheese out of their fridge and having them recommend a wine to go along. Never had a bad recommendation!
1st Avenue Wine house
3412 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids
http://www.firstavenuewinehouse.com/

St. Andrews Golf Club
I realized pretty quickly I’d never see my husband unless I learned to golf, and now I’m hooked. I love the course at St. Andrews (it’s public!). It’s challenging, but you can go slow and learn while playing with seasoned pros. The guys in the pro shop are so friendly, and the old-timers are always glad to give you a couple of tips for hitting the green. The driving range is huge, meaning even if it’s busy you can find a place to hit some balls. Plus, I get to show off my golf wardrobe!
St. Andrews Golf Club
1866 Blairs Ferry Rd. NE, Cedar Rapids
http://www.standrewsiowa.com/

Sugar Bottom Recreational Trails
When the weather warms up, I love to hit up the off-road trails for biking at Sugar Bottom. You can truly relax, get a great workout and spend some time in the best nature has to offer. If you’re like me and you’re not that skilled on a mountain bike, they’ve got easy trails that don’t make you feel out of control. After you get done biking, you can take a dip in the water. It’s right there at the edge of the park.
Sugar Bottom Recreational Trails
Near North Liberty on Coralville Lake
http://www.icorrmtb.org/icorr/