tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43247254123648602562024-03-14T03:01:55.680-07:00Eating on the Runwayfood and fashion, what better combination...Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-87467674817928284292011-08-11T09:42:00.000-07:002011-08-11T09:44:09.686-07:00Zucchini LasagnaMy veggie lasagna is my most requested recipe from people. I think the one thing that scares people the most is the long ingredient list, but it really is easy to put together. Here is a simple recipe that is a bit healthier than your normal lasagna. I just emailed this recipe to someone so I thought I'd copy and pasta it as a blog post as well.<br />
<br />
<br />
4-5 zucchini's depending how big or small they are, sliced lengthwise<br />
1 container of low fat ricotta cheese<br />
16 oz shredded low fat mozzarella cheese<br />
1 jar of pasta sauce<br />
1/2 cup parmesan cheese<br />
dried Italian herbs seasoning (optional)<br />
Salt & Pepper<br />
<br />
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees<br />
2. Thinly slice your zucchinis lengthwise. Make sure they are uniform slices and not too thick since they'll need to cook evenly<br />
3. Mix 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp Italian herbs, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, and ricotta cheese<br />
4. In a 13x9 baking dish, spray cooking oil on the bottom and sides. Pour about 1/2 cup of sauce on the bottom, enough to coat. <br />
5. Put a layer of zucchinis, enough to cover the bottom, then sprinkle with salt and pepper<br />
6. Spread 1/2 ricotta mixture across the zucchinis. Then sprinkle half your bag of mozzarella cheese<br />
7. Put another layer of zucchinis, don't forget to sprinkle the zucchinis with salt & pepper. <br />
8. Spread the rest of the ricotta cheese, then pour all your sauce on top. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top and put a dash of the Italian herbs across the top<br />
9. Spray aluminum foil with cooking spray and cover the baking dish loosely.<br />
10. Cook for 50 minutes, more or less depending how cooked you want the zucchini.<br />
11. Remove aluminum foil and broil for 5-6 minutes on high<br />
<br />
Enjoy!Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-89301442532669767182011-06-28T16:22:00.000-07:002011-06-28T16:22:17.548-07:00Homemade Chipotle BowlsIt is no secret I love Chipotle. Maybe it's the convenience or maybe it's the delicious cilantro rice. Thanks to Kristen over at <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/">Iowa Girl Eats</a>, I decided to make my own Chipotle bowls at home. It seemed easy and I had most of the things on hand already.<br />
<br />
Here is what you need to feed 4 people:<br />
<br />
Cilantro rice:<br />
4 cups cooked rice<br />
2 tbsp butter<br />
1/2 cup chopped cilantro<br />
lemon<br />
<br />
Mix everything together<br />
<br />
Filling:<br />
2 chicken breasts diced into small pieces (or whatever meat you want)<br />
1 packet taco seasoning<br />
green bell pepper-sliced<br />
onion-sliced<br />
<br />
Marinate the chicken with the taco seasoning and cook in an oiled saute pan. Set aside. In the same pan, cook the veggies<br />
<br />
Corn Salsa:<br />
1 1/2 cup frozen corn<br />
2 tomatoes -chopped<br />
1/2 onion- chopped<br />
1/2 red bell pepper-chopped <br />
cilantro<br />
lemon<br />
<br />
Mix together<br />
<br />
Other accompianments:<br />
shredded cheese<br />
shredded lettuce<br />
salsa (preferably Trader Joe's garlic chipotle sauce)<br />
sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)<br />
<br />
Now turn this.. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueW-Kuvm6mXh7AR8QOyIpNXl6VmfvWNU6tKmJzUfeJlYPtgi-9wIov-WP7smO14AjQBQZhAUUT3QfQlNcHl-kjiCi_zzdObo-js12E5pHkwOS0FcrmFMmxmFErcPNH_KN-4Ad3ySCc6JB/s1600/Chipotle+bowls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueW-Kuvm6mXh7AR8QOyIpNXl6VmfvWNU6tKmJzUfeJlYPtgi-9wIov-WP7smO14AjQBQZhAUUT3QfQlNcHl-kjiCi_zzdObo-js12E5pHkwOS0FcrmFMmxmFErcPNH_KN-4Ad3ySCc6JB/s400/Chipotle+bowls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> ...into this...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyc-vIhOn4lys5i5eOA-yTo1Vk24IjTYBqM9iBCAOhkPqvTlarOnCcekmgmYHx0MhAL1mh9NzQi1bOl0Un1HMRNMJnK0qq3Rup7EzJHqt9j55RBcYXDe_M3VsJ474SJOfup-x-cDMVjPo/s1600/+Chipotle+Bowls1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyc-vIhOn4lys5i5eOA-yTo1Vk24IjTYBqM9iBCAOhkPqvTlarOnCcekmgmYHx0MhAL1mh9NzQi1bOl0Un1HMRNMJnK0qq3Rup7EzJHqt9j55RBcYXDe_M3VsJ474SJOfup-x-cDMVjPo/s400/+Chipotle+Bowls1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
..and enjoy! Quick, easy, and delicious.Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-7500114776397101092011-06-28T15:58:00.000-07:002011-06-28T15:58:29.226-07:00Crab CakesI was craving for salmon cakes, but found a can of crab meat in my cupboard instead. I looked up a couple of recipes and decided to combine all of them and make my own.<br />
<br />
This is an approximate measurement of everything, since I never measure my spices.<br />
<br />
Crab Cakes<br />
<br />
1 can crab meat (6.5 oz)<br />
1/2 cup panko crumbs<br />
1 egg<br />
1 tbsp mayo<br />
1 tsp dijon mustard<br />
1/2 juice of lemon<br />
lemon zest<br />
1/4 cup green onions-chopped<br />
2 tbsp parmesan cheese<br />
1 tsp Italian herbs <br />
S&P to taste<br />
<br />
Mix together the egg, mayo, dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian herbs, and S&P. Add into crab meat, mix in panko crumbs and parmesan cheese. Mix all together, be careful not to break up crab meat.<br />
<br />
Oil up a pan and drop in a quarter sized ball of the mixture and cook on each side for about 3 minutes. It should be golden brown on both sides. Taste to see if you got all the seasonings right. If so, this makes about 3 medium sized patties. Cook at medium to high heat for the first 3-4 minutes on each side. Then change it to low heat so the inside heats through.<br />
<br />
I whipped up a simple dip with what I had on hand. <br />
1/4 cup mayo<br />
1/4 cup greek yogurt (or sour cream)<br />
a pinch of Italian herbs seasoning<br />
a squeeze of lemon<br />
lemon zest<br />
<br />
Whisk together and you have a simple dip made in no time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_dFzXdXPoSrxcRiQNQlRaZxX93KP3eq1k1DyaivOMfKBmfoOqhCveJUfc7av-zKtnU6XW0e2QqpKymT5DLxpam80o2ruv5g-iyDIBfxBCvPNxAunW0TEtExzOpFH-Q2YmHw_9d8Qouge/s1600/crab+cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_dFzXdXPoSrxcRiQNQlRaZxX93KP3eq1k1DyaivOMfKBmfoOqhCveJUfc7av-zKtnU6XW0e2QqpKymT5DLxpam80o2ruv5g-iyDIBfxBCvPNxAunW0TEtExzOpFH-Q2YmHw_9d8Qouge/s400/crab+cakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-41940040365070047782011-06-23T16:28:00.000-07:002011-06-28T16:41:15.096-07:00BBQ Chicken PizzaThe boy loves BBQ chicken pizza, so in an effort to make him happy, I scrapped together something easy. It's cheaper than any pizza you can get from a restaurant and customizable to your liking<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTs9QPOWzOSisQH1LJTa5gQNYE9JB9XMdtHr2We3EFHonDT2v3Hqtgw7NsVzlmIYIpsJt8MasI8GbVMiR-g7GIer0nHYCVVyaTK75Ol4W8qMLyEjNWZJIFGTq8WC67WiPmm-oeuLLKtQq/s1600/BBQ+chicken+pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTs9QPOWzOSisQH1LJTa5gQNYE9JB9XMdtHr2We3EFHonDT2v3Hqtgw7NsVzlmIYIpsJt8MasI8GbVMiR-g7GIer0nHYCVVyaTK75Ol4W8qMLyEjNWZJIFGTq8WC67WiPmm-oeuLLKtQq/s400/BBQ+chicken+pizza.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbb0pSSxiM3rxOZPcE-64umqixr6KJSa-6eHpViy0Vfb4P1IOdWia6TlC6i4W0psFdwm7YxGtdezI_AjjNcdz4094LDI37p0c6Ul5CmbaWoCv2KkrXTlJKPqNHCE2qkHR9509J7VSzJNi/s1600/BBQ+chicken+pizza1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbb0pSSxiM3rxOZPcE-64umqixr6KJSa-6eHpViy0Vfb4P1IOdWia6TlC6i4W0psFdwm7YxGtdezI_AjjNcdz4094LDI37p0c6Ul5CmbaWoCv2KkrXTlJKPqNHCE2qkHR9509J7VSzJNi/s400/BBQ+chicken+pizza1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
BBQ Chicken Pizza<br />
<br />
Pizza crust (I used the Boboli thin pizza crust)<br />
1 cup BBQ sauce<br />
1/4 sliced red onion<br />
1/2 cup corn (I buy the frozen roasted corn from Trader Joe's)<br />
1 cup mozzarella cheese<br />
1/2 cup chopped cilantro<br />
1 chicken breast- shredded (cooked however you want, I had left over roasted chicken)<br />
<br />
Preheat your oven according to the packaging details on the back of your pizza crust. <br />
Spray a baking sheet with non stick spray.<br />
Spread the BBQ sauce on, sprinkle with cheese<br />
Pile on the rest of the toppings and stick in the oven for about 15 minutes<br />
<br />
Enjoy!Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-81291477712187597232011-06-20T14:29:00.000-07:002011-06-28T16:04:59.510-07:00San Diego: Taste of GaslampLast weekend the boy and I did a quick weekend trip to San Diego. The main reason for going down there was Taste of Gaslamp. I had heard such great things about it in previous years and made it a point to make it down there this year. During our short trip, we spent a lot of time in Little Italy and downtown. Our hotel was conveniently located between the two. We discovered the <a href="http://www.littleitalysd.com/mercato/">Little Italy Mercato Farmer's Market</a> on Saturday morning and browsed around while we waited for Taste of Gaslamp to begin. This farmer's market has to be one of the best one I've ever been to. I would make the drive down to San Diego on Saturdays just for this.<br />
<br />
Moving along to our main topic: Taste of Gaslamp. $30 for a sampling of foods from 30 places around Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego. Best $30 I've ever spent. You have 3 hours to take your little punch card to a map of restaurants to try their different dishes. Here are a couple of my favorites in picture:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhvlxEboH6IDr8e9-5Ft72GWvEny9m6oEBwzPcMLkEmR-xiEKgOWqubzA3-nEFehBROtQtwu8FzhM6KLoa-er_HDyyJG-Aq11fWizmO0V_nPRkXeaHn4DS4RWMb6WIibzAqOaYc924u7L/s1600/crab+wonton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhvlxEboH6IDr8e9-5Ft72GWvEny9m6oEBwzPcMLkEmR-xiEKgOWqubzA3-nEFehBROtQtwu8FzhM6KLoa-er_HDyyJG-Aq11fWizmO0V_nPRkXeaHn4DS4RWMb6WIibzAqOaYc924u7L/s320/crab+wonton.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Crab salad on a wonton chip from Nobu</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLv10-7p2A1huvBkrM1CgHFSbf9SyPANiZCfO4h71i5PJSaYyLlZ3mc8p4j7q7jFUupMxzw0XwtW3-KX5B22Wgi4Gocsl9PpPME8UJ6q8Vgujlh6MqN9gpN-L0ARXHUspxi1iXmXg7Vpb/s1600/Ny+steak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLv10-7p2A1huvBkrM1CgHFSbf9SyPANiZCfO4h71i5PJSaYyLlZ3mc8p4j7q7jFUupMxzw0XwtW3-KX5B22Wgi4Gocsl9PpPME8UJ6q8Vgujlh6MqN9gpN-L0ARXHUspxi1iXmXg7Vpb/s320/Ny+steak.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> NY Steak from Palms</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9bYkFXHLhjCBFhlKMYmZEBfEygrM7sTrOEJsy4hs8HC-Rx0xM2gHgOa4oO0VDe-_9B5o3Eo6-uIk9iR1iDK4r0Ifkz19VCNSyYi8ouklkQ86n3dyEwwbACkMziQ5GmsepWgTzN6BymJjP/s1600/scallop+w%253A+potato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9bYkFXHLhjCBFhlKMYmZEBfEygrM7sTrOEJsy4hs8HC-Rx0xM2gHgOa4oO0VDe-_9B5o3Eo6-uIk9iR1iDK4r0Ifkz19VCNSyYi8ouklkQ86n3dyEwwbACkMziQ5GmsepWgTzN6BymJjP/s320/scallop+w%253A+potato.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Scallop with pearl potato from Airr Supper Club</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Pn1faPYAC7nWe-W6N9FzypJGSTn1VM1K95aRPjWuRLgwmse-OHQcJec7VUVXzMmQxrH4UAgBFng1aTO3tfZJMZg0JH6JpIA_HuGItIW3aWrmyCfPATTkcB4VgAf1r50wHDNedl3xusT3/s1600/scallop+w%253A+risotto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Pn1faPYAC7nWe-W6N9FzypJGSTn1VM1K95aRPjWuRLgwmse-OHQcJec7VUVXzMmQxrH4UAgBFng1aTO3tfZJMZg0JH6JpIA_HuGItIW3aWrmyCfPATTkcB4VgAf1r50wHDNedl3xusT3/s320/scallop+w%253A+risotto.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Scallop over pea risotto from Soleil K</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I am already looking forward to going again next year.Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-16306472471948777422011-02-17T15:42:00.000-08:002011-04-15T15:15:45.307-07:00MAGICI just got back from a whirlwind trip to Vegas all thanks to the ladies of <a href="http://boutiquing.com/all">Boutiquing</a>. If you don't know what Boutiquing is, hop on over to their site to see what they're all about (shameless plug).<br />
<br />
We left on Sunday, which happened to be my birthday, but the girls made sure I was well taken care of. We sped down I-15 just in time to get to the Mirage to watch The Beatles. I've never been a huge fan of shows, but this is a must see. All the music and acts were beyond amazing.<br />
<br />
The whole point of the Boutiquing Brigade being in Vegas for Magic was for the 1st even Teen Vogue Blogger Lounge. We were asked to come to be the birds eye view for everyone that couldn't be there. We Tweeted and Facebooked our way through the floors of Magic about everything and anything fashion related.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGK7LGOMR-iNv_WMnUB-dsBd0gdiEt7KVfjhwJG-s0TxHreFRcD-qPOtlDKuZAb1CKr6GXFZ0DdROu9OeXFxFOvCRzDQjACxoeeG66OIcZutPcris1nfB-zLrRRwW0X_TmRZpj4BH0J-m/s1600/Teen+vogue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGK7LGOMR-iNv_WMnUB-dsBd0gdiEt7KVfjhwJG-s0TxHreFRcD-qPOtlDKuZAb1CKr6GXFZ0DdROu9OeXFxFOvCRzDQjACxoeeG66OIcZutPcris1nfB-zLrRRwW0X_TmRZpj4BH0J-m/s320/Teen+vogue.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlGqB4wWPuWqLessY0c2STdswHa9auymmSw4GErRP6jlCB-QGQ_UKPRk4vdTtU3MituVpXiOowL6mCfLPcdhhJPeO-EbZ4wrKnsbc8JzRqfuSPXGFVze0_vjD-3D_SLYTNIzSl6qcXlgm/s1600/teen+vogue1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlGqB4wWPuWqLessY0c2STdswHa9auymmSw4GErRP6jlCB-QGQ_UKPRk4vdTtU3MituVpXiOowL6mCfLPcdhhJPeO-EbZ4wrKnsbc8JzRqfuSPXGFVze0_vjD-3D_SLYTNIzSl6qcXlgm/s320/teen+vogue1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyLXX8Ud9zabXhsGCiZLycfB9zKLYOhx8WwRlkQqK6NH2MCrA3EYZink7NUe3WmO7t_KkZFLwI7tWnEJasWIyaEjT6Gc_5WQF-06rvY6dGp2QPzyYJd3kXAbGnyjrN0KrDcctgSEGme3N/s1600/teen+vogue2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyLXX8Ud9zabXhsGCiZLycfB9zKLYOhx8WwRlkQqK6NH2MCrA3EYZink7NUe3WmO7t_KkZFLwI7tWnEJasWIyaEjT6Gc_5WQF-06rvY6dGp2QPzyYJd3kXAbGnyjrN0KrDcctgSEGme3N/s320/teen+vogue2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPM7Nn8eIDBL2PwtNHGZvA35ujXE8mlL809owVKnDHG8I8T6ekxriaFGh3qkQv_dnwS0Su7y7kAOzpHkT6gtLrF1GgngE4fJLDTeHKcXWdcPCIl3dTC5CXzt4CSdyxU4v4qO8bu86bGcW/s1600/boutiquing+brigade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPM7Nn8eIDBL2PwtNHGZvA35ujXE8mlL809owVKnDHG8I8T6ekxriaFGh3qkQv_dnwS0Su7y7kAOzpHkT6gtLrF1GgngE4fJLDTeHKcXWdcPCIl3dTC5CXzt4CSdyxU4v4qO8bu86bGcW/s320/boutiquing+brigade.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZi1FubcF02K0HZz6xcsnnetFMFqLfmzw7lpiUZA3VBB4Y6oghklhwelmgyM4Q5KXFEQoPF3RDdfgOB8aR41xVsEfJQqM4AEq7oXFYYkkiT5d0sJskzHk__vVD0KOQqWUegX3LJOLfLeN/s1600/bloggers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZi1FubcF02K0HZz6xcsnnetFMFqLfmzw7lpiUZA3VBB4Y6oghklhwelmgyM4Q5KXFEQoPF3RDdfgOB8aR41xVsEfJQqM4AEq7oXFYYkkiT5d0sJskzHk__vVD0KOQqWUegX3LJOLfLeN/s320/bloggers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I had gone to Magic the previous year, but this year was definitely slower than last. The crowd just wans't as big and the energy wasn't quite there. I did love the excitement that the bloggers showed throughout the entire event. I loved seeing how different girls portrayed their best styles in 3 short days. The bloggers came from near and far, some as close as LA and others as far as NYC and Canada. <br />
<br />
I had an amazing time with my Boutiquing girls. Even though we were there during my birthday and Valentine's day, I was with great company. <br />
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See you next time MagicCindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-69261389033518679442011-02-15T14:36:00.000-08:002011-04-15T14:37:03.692-07:00Hash House A Go GoAfter hearing so much about this restaurant, a couple of us made the drive down to San Diego to try <a href="http://www.hashhouseagogo.com/">Hash House</a>. They are epically known for their chicken & waffles. Apparently, people are saying it's better than Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles. I split an order of Andy's Sage Fried Chicken w/ mash potaters and a BIG blueberry pecan flapjack with the boyfriend.<br />
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The flapjack went unpictured, but it was the size of a giant dinner plate. We barely even made a dent in it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP78LQigNZVWqq-2Yu09bYlOz4e9wPOD_QI24JD3R50EIMQaff5gvyUxSSGvqnNEae2YSt6NFfC0AFnX1ghZsYc2eVVpFbTP_Gdegsj6QWE1HlBtEm2xv0IE_9-AM33_IeWOg2UzB5HxL/s1600/Hashhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP78LQigNZVWqq-2Yu09bYlOz4e9wPOD_QI24JD3R50EIMQaff5gvyUxSSGvqnNEae2YSt6NFfC0AFnX1ghZsYc2eVVpFbTP_Gdegsj6QWE1HlBtEm2xv0IE_9-AM33_IeWOg2UzB5HxL/s320/Hashhouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Their infamous fried chicken wasn't all that great. I'm a big fan of dark meat chicken, so this just didn't do it for me. The whole meal just felt too heavy for me and didn't sit well.<br />
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I declare: HYPECindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-79953398977472183402011-02-06T14:07:00.000-08:002011-04-15T14:08:56.780-07:00Knott's Berry FarmThe best part of <a href="http://www.knotts.com/">Knott's:</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmxuh5idGRVyqVNA1aHVeqJgOZNRPwUvgu8MXxmZ4DcSI2XwNVvr6WD6Gi-ioQO6q24GksRHlIkXjWWc9fZ2SgTEle3UVQ8RZAla3lRTLn4KH1ClCqsWyiwt4BBaJCbsOogwQI2ZV6roB/s1600/knotts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmxuh5idGRVyqVNA1aHVeqJgOZNRPwUvgu8MXxmZ4DcSI2XwNVvr6WD6Gi-ioQO6q24GksRHlIkXjWWc9fZ2SgTEle3UVQ8RZAla3lRTLn4KH1ClCqsWyiwt4BBaJCbsOogwQI2ZV6roB/s320/knotts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Funnel cake w/ half strawberry and half boysenberry topping. EXTRA POWDER SUGAR PLEASE!Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-65906942366958601152011-02-01T12:53:00.000-08:002011-04-15T13:59:51.727-07:00MesaThe only two reasons why anyone should ever go to <a href="http://juniper.nowsprouting.com/mesa/#/home">Mesa</a> in Costa Mesa<br />
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Reason #1: Lychee Martini <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6bHhMPf1hAHUX_jRbE3-FKilTCyEPhxSIZb7rM6-ZxsJFzJMb7muFqmSL0MXczhhaFb-8CD_LpkXITpWie3GiCJiefG3sIUw5owwu_7JIv9HlFVH3gYJtN_pXaakpXApIE5pFzeSucYi/s1600/lychee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6bHhMPf1hAHUX_jRbE3-FKilTCyEPhxSIZb7rM6-ZxsJFzJMb7muFqmSL0MXczhhaFb-8CD_LpkXITpWie3GiCJiefG3sIUw5owwu_7JIv9HlFVH3gYJtN_pXaakpXApIE5pFzeSucYi/s320/lychee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Reason #2: Cast Iron Skillet Mussels<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UKvmo0T4p138GGaGvqIQsEGeN7dTCpNYNrzLNwPTcvAYrSlVe2hm2DthRIyQrOZ2q8ve8WAByE1PsDmjYxawUoIrcQVygZmLrK2Rb7xOhTKqx-ssXYiAfACOCXTMPlPEGlyAn1bewxed/s1600/mussels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UKvmo0T4p138GGaGvqIQsEGeN7dTCpNYNrzLNwPTcvAYrSlVe2hm2DthRIyQrOZ2q8ve8WAByE1PsDmjYxawUoIrcQVygZmLrK2Rb7xOhTKqx-ssXYiAfACOCXTMPlPEGlyAn1bewxed/s320/mussels.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The two things that are actually worth going for and paying the $$$ for. The only great thing about this lounge is the retractable roof that pulls back at 11pm. Otherwise, you're paying to cram into a small space and fight off douchebag bouncers. Since when did this place get so crowded they needed security at the door?<br />
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Go early, get the mussels and lychee martini. Then leave and hit up a more affordable bar.Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-34848849397061126842011-01-26T13:48:00.000-08:002011-04-15T13:52:58.262-07:00Wine & Cheese PleaeLately I've been craving a little of this...<br />
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I love all things wine and cheese. Pour me a good glass of white wine and feed me endless amounts of cheese & salami.Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-23656697249001462832011-01-20T12:51:00.000-08:002011-04-15T13:41:17.817-07:00How to: Roasted VegetablesOver the past several years, I've really grown to like vegetables. When cooked perfectly, I can eat them by the pound. I've found that the best way to cook them is by roasting. It is the easiest, but take so long to cook. It is a set it and forget it way of cooking, easy enough for me. <br />
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How to go from this... <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEPMBINW1USBoL9l8LmB0vPzODDBFY62d1qffL28LMhDq1YBFrTMDrE4sDuV04Y-bqH9Nk3ILvWsO1CcTC6Z_EbB3U1mX4jYZgGMfUZYp9FC0iEks9PuUQYbEXV0Rii2iDbLTuaKh6jGI/s1600/roasted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEPMBINW1USBoL9l8LmB0vPzODDBFY62d1qffL28LMhDq1YBFrTMDrE4sDuV04Y-bqH9Nk3ILvWsO1CcTC6Z_EbB3U1mX4jYZgGMfUZYp9FC0iEks9PuUQYbEXV0Rii2iDbLTuaKh6jGI/s320/roasted.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> ..to this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2_X9G5tocqdByjVr4HujAB-WCwgIAW0iaF4SkSmWfnmVYGwwfKU7f9zkxnnjmQay117LwyUIc536GEH2v7w4d_bQiTuXWUp31iCdzdNgFc88oc5LqlAvltfnoqRrH1VIj90KZGK-X3eo/s1600/roasted+veg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2_X9G5tocqdByjVr4HujAB-WCwgIAW0iaF4SkSmWfnmVYGwwfKU7f9zkxnnjmQay117LwyUIc536GEH2v7w4d_bQiTuXWUp31iCdzdNgFc88oc5LqlAvltfnoqRrH1VIj90KZGK-X3eo/s320/roasted+veg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Chop up whatever vegetables you want to roast. Make sure you chop them all about the same size so they cook evenly. Coat them with olive oil and season with salt & pepper. Toss them in the oven for 45-50 minutes at 375 degrees. Half way thru, stir them around. <br />
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Feel free to get creative with what you toss the veggies in. Sometimes I do garlic salt instead of regular salt, Italian herbs, chili powder, or whatever you have in your spice cabinet. <br />
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In the picture above, I roasted brussel sprouts, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Feel free to toss in any veggies you like. If you live in Orange County, be sure to stop by Grower's Direct in Costa Mesa. They have a ton of fresh produce at insanely low prices. I've never found any bad produce there. <br />
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Enjoy!Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-66145806768095181622011-01-15T13:16:00.000-08:002011-04-15T13:16:52.088-07:00Old Vine CafeI've had <a href="http://www.oldvinecafe.com/">Old Vine Cafe</a> bookmarked for a while now and finally got around to trying it for lunch. I'm a bit against spending $20 for lunch, but their 3-course set lunch was well worth it. I stalked their menu beforehand so I knew exactly what to order when I arrived.<br />
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1st course: Porcini Bisque with a crostino <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">2nd course: Porcini Mac & Cheese </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">3rd course: Grandma's Cheese Cake</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1bBe2Epi_zf2it0gTNEFNna-h_qFHVTRxrUi1kgcBMpEvTbgbll3GwdQi1GBwcZhWxEeU8_C-omh8z59HBUVcr9LSM5DaZGpAGv-sAbumKIG-PxM4rK8RDvyGFXKSFrz1vlo3HQzoP_l/s1600/oldvinecheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1bBe2Epi_zf2it0gTNEFNna-h_qFHVTRxrUi1kgcBMpEvTbgbll3GwdQi1GBwcZhWxEeU8_C-omh8z59HBUVcr9LSM5DaZGpAGv-sAbumKIG-PxM4rK8RDvyGFXKSFrz1vlo3HQzoP_l/s320/oldvinecheesecake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I'm sure you can sense the theme I went with for my lunch. I'm sure if they offered a mushroom dessert, I would've went with it. The porcini bisque was nice and creamy with the perfect subtle taste of the mushroom. It wasn't too heavy which I hate in a bisque. The pocini mac&cheese had the perfect blend of cheeses.<br />
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Let's talk about the cheesecake. I die. When they first brought it out, I couldn't believe how small it was. This thin little sliver on this ginormous plate was the biggest tease. I don't normally eat desserts, but this was hands down the best slice of cheesecake I've ever had. The graham cracker crust and the berry jam did it for me.<br />
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Overall, Old Vine Cafe was well worth my $20 spent on lunch. I'd be happy to even order the cheesecake for all three courses.Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-55602033201185717122010-12-28T12:00:00.000-08:002010-12-28T12:00:00.545-08:00Recipe: Easy BruschettaThis recipe is so easy to throw together. I took me about 10 minutes from start to finish. <br />
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</div><div>Easy Bruschetta:</div><div><br />
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</div><div>5 Roma tomatoes, chopped</div><div>2 cloves of garlic, minced</div><div>1/4 cup of basil, chopped</div><div>1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese</div><div>1 tbsp olive oil</div><div>1 tbsp balsamic vinegar</div><div>S&P to taste</div><div><br />
</div><div>Combine the first 4 ingredients and mix. Then mix with the rest of ingredients. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. To make it even better, you can reduce a cup of balsamic vinegar and drizzle it over the top when you're serving. Serve it with toasted French bread. It makes for a easy appetizer to throw together.</div><div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">xox,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">C</div><div><br />
</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-41337855109051134232010-12-27T12:00:00.000-08:002010-12-27T12:00:01.477-08:00Recipe: Balsamic Cream Chicken PastaI had dinner at <a href="http://www.monalisacucina.com/">Mona Lisa's</a> in Huntington Beach a couple weeks ago and absolutely loved their Rigatoni Con Petit De Pollo. It was a rigatoni pasta with a light balsamic cream sauce. The sauce had the perfect tang to it that I fell in love with. The boyfriend also raved about the dish so I knew it was something I wanted to recreate. I searched high and low for a good recipe and came across one from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Balsamic-Cream-Sauce/Detail.aspx">AllRecipes.com</a>. I used it as a guide and adjusted it to my liking. The recipe is just for the sauce, but I made it to put over pasta and chicken. I'm sure it would be good over a variety of things.<br />
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Balsamic Cream Sauce:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlOjeBM9UJCf9zLRZZBQy4N6wRtjQlHyoA1ZweHC1GBIY_evgisOtaN_HPdqLi62zsLOFgD1mP0-bZStFQ9g5o9H7Vt0Ij_4t9nbU_Kgui_t-BdyGP06KPxPF3tCuo6qJxJclc_mIkU8m/s1600/balsamic+sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlOjeBM9UJCf9zLRZZBQy4N6wRtjQlHyoA1ZweHC1GBIY_evgisOtaN_HPdqLi62zsLOFgD1mP0-bZStFQ9g5o9H7Vt0Ij_4t9nbU_Kgui_t-BdyGP06KPxPF3tCuo6qJxJclc_mIkU8m/s400/balsamic+sauce.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
2 tbsp oil<br />
2 tbsp butter<br />
1/2 onion, minced or chopped<br />
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar<br />
2 tbsp chicken bouillon granules<br />
1 1/2 cup of heavy cream<br />
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese<br />
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1. Heat oil and butter in a saucepan. Add onions and saute on low/medium heat for 10-15 minutes. You want to caramelize the onions, not saute them. Make sure you're stirring it constantly so you don't burn them<br />
2. Add the balsamic vinegar and let simmer for about 1-2 minutes. You'll see it slightly thicken up.<br />
3 Add heavy cream and chicken granules. Bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes until you see it thickening. <br />
4. Add in the parmesan cheese and stir around until it all melts. Freshly grated parmesan will give you the best results. The canned and pre-shredded stuff will make your sauce lumpy.<br />
5. Add salt/pepper to your liking<br />
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All done! This sauce was an easy 20 minutes. The only long part is waiting for the onions to caramelize. This was the perfect serving for 4 people. <br />
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Here is my go-to easy chicken marinade:<br />
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1 big piece of chicken breast, sliced or however you plan to serve it<br />
1/2 cup of Italian salad dressing<br />
2 cloves of garlic-minced<br />
a dash of Italian herbs<br />
S&P<br />
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Combine it all and let marinate for 30 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes depending how big your pieces of chicken are.<br />
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I served this with some <a href="http://eatingontherunway.blogspot.com/2010/04/beer-can-chicken.html">roasted broccoli</a>, I prepared it the same way from my Beer Can Chicken post. <br />
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It was a very delicious dinner and boyfriend approved. This is definitely going on my monthly rotation of meals<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCtn-qJWizyunsQyMazt_XwlGsJP_Bgi2Zhn65KYqBtAaiNKCPnuGmmmkctcfXxjM_x3kLh9Bbo7FGsxIVjhKgKHDChHjWpgwDwUWgYWfK1Q5n08QolZfVhPWDN3kxwCKJodNjxU1-X-m/s1600/balsamic+dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCtn-qJWizyunsQyMazt_XwlGsJP_Bgi2Zhn65KYqBtAaiNKCPnuGmmmkctcfXxjM_x3kLh9Bbo7FGsxIVjhKgKHDChHjWpgwDwUWgYWfK1Q5n08QolZfVhPWDN3kxwCKJodNjxU1-X-m/s400/balsamic+dinner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-48147726381515925422010-12-23T10:15:00.000-08:002010-12-23T10:46:08.913-08:00NYE ContestThe people of OC Fairgrounds graciously gave me two general admission ($70 value) tickets to giveaway for the <a href="http://www.ocfair.com/blockparty/index.php">NYE Block Party</a>. I thought it'd be fun to do a little contest here on my blog.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0zKA1ReyWMdYTnd7CUrKil3x8pN-Z7kH-2IvzrgTzMARheTTJO_Pw05Qv4LhU7josPexee9TLKU5kQ2KJSiarojNR_etRPbTk85aAl6RY40XLB4XgCkbQXJ7k44mfT3MIVIG0nBQrAMS/s1600/ocfair.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0zKA1ReyWMdYTnd7CUrKil3x8pN-Z7kH-2IvzrgTzMARheTTJO_Pw05Qv4LhU7josPexee9TLKU5kQ2KJSiarojNR_etRPbTk85aAl6RY40XLB4XgCkbQXJ7k44mfT3MIVIG0nBQrAMS/s320/ocfair.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div><div>Here are some tidbits on the event:</div><div><br />
</div><div>* 4 stages featuring tribute bands from 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. Personally the Journey tribute band is my favorite.</div><div><br />
</div><div>* 2 DJs spinning today's hottest music</div><div><br />
</div><div>* Demolition Taxi Cab Derby</div><div><br />
</div><div>* Comedy Hypnotist</div><div><br />
</div><div>* Carnival Rides</div><div><br />
</div><div>* 50 gourmet food trucks (try Burnt Truck, it's my favorite!)</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.ocfair.com/blockparty/tickets.php">Tickets</a> range from $35-$75. They even offer VIP admission for those of you that want to do New Years in style. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div>So for the contest, you have a couple ways to win these tickets:</div><div><br />
</div><div>1. Leave me a comment and tell me what one perk of having VIP tickets is.</div><div><br />
</div><div>2. RT this on Twitter "I want to win the @OCFair NYE Block Party tickets from @CindyWang10"</div><div><br />
</div><div>3. @ reply me on Twitter and tell me one thing you did nice for someone for the holidays. My twitter handle is @CindyWang10</div><div><br />
</div><div>*If you're leaving a comment on my blog, please don't forget to leave your email address so I can get ahold of you for the tickets.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I will be choosing the winner on Christmas morning. Winning the tickets will be like an extra present under the tree :)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Goodluck!</div><div><br />
</div><div>xox,</div><div>C</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-6260972586593347682010-12-21T15:22:00.000-08:002010-12-21T15:22:27.715-08:00Union Rescue MissionI don't recall Orange County raining this much since El Nino 10 years ago. The rain put a damper on my Big Bear cabin trip this past weekend and has made Christmas shopping more dreadful than it already is. I love the cold, but with the heavy rain, it has made the freeways a war zone. Accidents every few miles, flooding, and cars driving 30 mph. <div><br />
</div><div>Between all this complaining, I'm thankful I have a car to get me places, a jacket to keep me dry, and a warm bed to sleep in at night. There are hundreds, even thousands, of people out there that don't have any of the mentioned. Last night at 10pm, <a href="http://www.premiddleage.com/">Cole</a> posted this on Twitter and I quickly jumped on it. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkD_BhkfKub1w6rFHux-PVnqJFO8g6tCM1bVLn2idrog9FHZIzFyaiLeaoKi3y0mHn3fhOyFfWLv9R66xu_K5WKmoRC5OFPdJzyc6xhyphenhyphenllgbJh8LTRSp_ZpBxqP6j2ek3P5JlSbOV9P-1/s1600/Twitter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkD_BhkfKub1w6rFHux-PVnqJFO8g6tCM1bVLn2idrog9FHZIzFyaiLeaoKi3y0mHn3fhOyFfWLv9R66xu_K5WKmoRC5OFPdJzyc6xhyphenhyphenllgbJh8LTRSp_ZpBxqP6j2ek3P5JlSbOV9P-1/s400/Twitter.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Every year around the holidays, I always want to volunteer or donate. It's tough for me to donate money since I don't make much. So assisting Cole was the next best thing. Everyone has extra clothes, shoes, blankets, etc that they don't want or need. She had plans to take all the clothes to the <a href="http://www.urm.org/">Union Rescue Mission</a> at noon today. I posted on my Facebook late last night to see if anyone could donate clothes. To my surprise I got a great response. By 10am, I had two people leave bags of clothes on my doorstep and arranged to pick up from 5 other people. It amazes me how many people, some I don't even talk to, got in contact with me to donate to a good cause. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I battled the rain, slow drivers, got locked inside a friends gate (ended up having to jumping over) and ended up with about 20 huge bags of clothes. I didn't expect to collect as much as I did so when I saw it slowly piling up in my car, I got a bit nervous. I still had a couple more stops and wasn't sure whether it would all fit in my car. In the end, I made it work and fit everything in my car to drop it off at Cole's. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLeLj4LMgZR8lDzdRaf9sVfqIMkd7CPKiDPU2L-E2ARj82bZa-4BWVM6crUFhRTtxiQ-q-wgtTgFyp7PPQxyGexQkUgnMzEqRXPnSab86mNlhNoeDoynXhctGXn-tpqmhrgUGFvPNQ7qf/s1600/frontseat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLeLj4LMgZR8lDzdRaf9sVfqIMkd7CPKiDPU2L-E2ARj82bZa-4BWVM6crUFhRTtxiQ-q-wgtTgFyp7PPQxyGexQkUgnMzEqRXPnSab86mNlhNoeDoynXhctGXn-tpqmhrgUGFvPNQ7qf/s320/frontseat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mDVpJD2aRqFiU8tgj19087VQAKX_uAvGRDtKPL7QNDs5n-H9gHk-JujSKIR1kJgy9ahNAfUCxv8w3y2dDSGtze4m2zTwOqYaWc9p1tuJxTbl3RGxqv-AtB_thf4BGMwsLkt0AG7qsFTF/s1600/backseat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mDVpJD2aRqFiU8tgj19087VQAKX_uAvGRDtKPL7QNDs5n-H9gHk-JujSKIR1kJgy9ahNAfUCxv8w3y2dDSGtze4m2zTwOqYaWc9p1tuJxTbl3RGxqv-AtB_thf4BGMwsLkt0AG7qsFTF/s320/backseat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhdlsSTkiEo10ULz8JTbHvROVtNdfBYuovwX37t9mQcWnFyrd2o929jVhsfQe4WZMAdlW7_mUZBrXXSHUawyOXpeAaHJwb4e_XnEMAoq8S74sYmcuOGRLYfI1qCSuksW6uLI56fvTjWjA/s1600/backseat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhdlsSTkiEo10ULz8JTbHvROVtNdfBYuovwX37t9mQcWnFyrd2o929jVhsfQe4WZMAdlW7_mUZBrXXSHUawyOXpeAaHJwb4e_XnEMAoq8S74sYmcuOGRLYfI1qCSuksW6uLI56fvTjWjA/s320/backseat1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5Zyd77Ug08W_UKvzk-HnTOKT_lTN9OAaoDLJcBUOLsarVt-bNQqflYtbVyZsg_DshnE4CH6cMcLVbcMpD2ykF_Qv4_lfbIWR7-juVr07t4ENvo6jaYxZbQLAwR5FMaSCdftR1wHsfvuz/s1600/trunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5Zyd77Ug08W_UKvzk-HnTOKT_lTN9OAaoDLJcBUOLsarVt-bNQqflYtbVyZsg_DshnE4CH6cMcLVbcMpD2ykF_Qv4_lfbIWR7-juVr07t4ENvo6jaYxZbQLAwR5FMaSCdftR1wHsfvuz/s320/trunk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you to the people that quickly acted on this and got these bags together. It's such a good feeling at the end of the day knowing that you can help out the less fortunate. I'm lucky to have a roof over my head and dry clothes to change into every day. Some just aren't so that's where you step in and help in every which way. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For those of you that still want to donate, Cole is holding another pick-up tomorrow morning at Brea Mall at the Macy's parking lot at 10am. Let me know if you would like more information and I can link you over to her. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">xox,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">C</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-37708926359590094042010-12-08T15:52:00.000-08:002010-12-08T15:52:59.234-08:00NYE Block PartyYear after year, I try so hard to find something fun to do on New Years Eve and year after year, I fail to do so. I always have such high expectations for NYE and am always let down because what I end up doing isn't as much fun as I hoped it to be. Being in my early 20's, I've always wanted to party hard and get completely trashed on NYE because that's what people do right? Not this year. This year I plan on kicking back and enjoying myself surrounded with my boyfriend and some good friends. Thus, when I found out about the OC Fair NYE Block Party, I figured it to be fun and relaxing. What really caught my eye was the 50 food trucks that are going to be there. All those trucks in one place? Sign me up! <br />
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First off, OC Fair is having a preview party next Thursday, December 16th. It's free to get in and it'll be a good taste of what the NYE event will be. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll be there stuffing my face at my favorite trucks. Come say 'hi' if you see me!</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-37729562387006126432010-12-07T15:01:00.000-08:002010-12-07T15:02:40.560-08:00Food TruckingFood trucks have been all the rage around OC and LA lately. It all started with the infamous <a href="http://kogibbq.com/">Kogi BBQ</a> and their outrageous 2 hour lines. Now there are well over 50 trucks roaming around So Cal with all different types of menus. From fusion tacos to bakery sweets, there is always something from everyone. Here are a couple of my favorites:<br />
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<a href="http://theburnttruck.com/">The Burnt Truck</a> is my all time favorite. They serve different types of sliders, with a menu that changes weekly. I like a truck that can keep things fresh and not constantly serve the same thing. They serve about 5-6 different sliders each week and sometimes keeping a couple of their best sellers on the menu. They are regulars at <a href="http://ns.ocfair.com/ocf/Calendar/ViewEvent.asp?EventId=1628">Food Truck Fare Thursdays</a> and OC DinDinAGoGo on Wednesdays at Irvine Lanes. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBD9ia6x0TyvyMZkIu9WoSY4rlOdnJ57JO8t_VSR2p7kGoiu0aDyZ3YzMMvyi4vWXpeogWxC2tnmWaOodi50zfE3kh8c2QHU0q6GffCzLyoy5GBPJ_bS9cxoAM24L_n8JyK12V8QnHQjTd/s1600/DSC02177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBD9ia6x0TyvyMZkIu9WoSY4rlOdnJ57JO8t_VSR2p7kGoiu0aDyZ3YzMMvyi4vWXpeogWxC2tnmWaOodi50zfE3kh8c2QHU0q6GffCzLyoy5GBPJ_bS9cxoAM24L_n8JyK12V8QnHQjTd/s320/DSC02177.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1edtca3ECansPd1xa34HdVP__4Wbe4kkhoqWy_4HlEqfg0UBivvGju_OPrFFxtBpNHe5JehwMWQ5M7zWKm8_X2iK6Wj7V_7dbSENvK263AO5mweO5xENbkIaKYj70pp4wZsji4p2bGwt_/s1600/DSC02178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1edtca3ECansPd1xa34HdVP__4Wbe4kkhoqWy_4HlEqfg0UBivvGju_OPrFFxtBpNHe5JehwMWQ5M7zWKm8_X2iK6Wj7V_7dbSENvK263AO5mweO5xENbkIaKYj70pp4wZsji4p2bGwt_/s320/DSC02178.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWronYIJDuxqTpZ_Wv77nY3IgVF9TJ5lydaTfmPe9wWL09Aqwyi85rxyGesegn1U6D0k8Nd9YMOmhDVb3D0vOYPJd_W-6pVDYqVbnRCTPNqR8uZg6lRGVPWyUcrRTCu6ShSqxb1tcviFx7/s1600/DSC02180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWronYIJDuxqTpZ_Wv77nY3IgVF9TJ5lydaTfmPe9wWL09Aqwyi85rxyGesegn1U6D0k8Nd9YMOmhDVb3D0vOYPJd_W-6pVDYqVbnRCTPNqR8uZg6lRGVPWyUcrRTCu6ShSqxb1tcviFx7/s320/DSC02180.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Korean BBQ slider and Cheeseburger slider</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My favorites are the Fried Chicken, Cheeseburger, PBJ, and Vietnamese Pork. They also serve tater tots and fries. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://morselsbakingco.com/">The Bakery Truck</a> is a truck that my boyfriend loves. Their cream puffs and dessert shots are to die for. I'm not a huge fan of sweets, but their mini banana nutella cream puff has a special place in my stomach. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5vOHMgI-9c6f8QKfFSHhpCfCn9TpKuknVzP3_PErggEUXnW_isUdAGBidoQ2uuinrjyjbrfmstb2dLMXjr2B6TkkH4t0A-6SIn2VwbgJnoO_LgbVwizSUoMB67xzd4Nkon0LhJ5wVBNN/s1600/DSC01961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5vOHMgI-9c6f8QKfFSHhpCfCn9TpKuknVzP3_PErggEUXnW_isUdAGBidoQ2uuinrjyjbrfmstb2dLMXjr2B6TkkH4t0A-6SIn2VwbgJnoO_LgbVwizSUoMB67xzd4Nkon0LhJ5wVBNN/s320/DSC01961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJTyGTHeqHTjOtMEqufpv8F_8vvamlEQHws0ivAcfSmZMIZ59lvMXRNeeFrE_IqejBXSJQqKwYmlD5DJq922UcvKge48a5nVXMhYsznaZKx-bUnLAyAyzD-864ESx0ExZLpQpXyV4iwXT/s1600/DSC01962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJTyGTHeqHTjOtMEqufpv8F_8vvamlEQHws0ivAcfSmZMIZ59lvMXRNeeFrE_IqejBXSJQqKwYmlD5DJq922UcvKge48a5nVXMhYsznaZKx-bUnLAyAyzD-864ESx0ExZLpQpXyV4iwXT/s320/DSC01962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A couple other trucks that I love, that I don't have pictures for are:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://thelimetruck.com/lime/Home.html">The Lime Truck</a> for their Carnitas Fries. 10 hour pulled pork, guacamole, slaw, crema, and cotija. The chipotle-honey slaw that tops it off is what makes the fries <i>that</i> much better. Their menu is a bit pricier, but the quality of the food can't be beat. You would never guess their food came off a truck.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.doschinosfood.com/">Dos Chinos</a> is a Latin Asian Cuisine truck serving tacos and burritos. What sets them apart from Kogi's is that each taco is different from the last. Their Bolsa BBQ Pork is hands down their best taco. The only downside is that their service is slow and their tacos are sometimes inconsistent. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://tropicalshaveice.com/">Tropical Shaved Ice</a>, the name says it all. I've only ever had their fusion shaved ice and there's no reason to try anything else. Shaved ice with your choice of bananas, lychee, or strawberries (when they're in season) all drenched in sweetened condensed milk. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.tacodawg.com/">Taco Dawg</a> is known for their tacos and hot dawgs with a fun twist. I really can't pick a favorite because all of their tacos and dawgs are pretty good. A must try is their Apple taco dessert, you won't regret it! Don't forget to grab one of their punch cards and say "waddup dawg" to the guys on the truck.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All of these trucks can be tracked down via Twitter and Facebook. The best way to track their updates is from Twitter and some trucks post their weekly menu up on Facebook. Take the time to attend one of the meet ups so you can choose from different trucks all in one area. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-54568712069266872712010-10-21T19:10:00.000-07:002010-10-21T19:10:19.402-07:00Lust<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoWpHn7xvyqMlOu1dmqBNYnHoX2s83hK4eOuF1N5VLjSpfdk7Vu3tP-Dx-X7Od3I-hDgpIpCyipY3O5RGdxQrM-a1OhNIdLWYcnXnOjvSUsawycQh5PkJyypj0bWEtdNyM_BUe5ehRy69/s1600/clutch+lust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoWpHn7xvyqMlOu1dmqBNYnHoX2s83hK4eOuF1N5VLjSpfdk7Vu3tP-Dx-X7Od3I-hDgpIpCyipY3O5RGdxQrM-a1OhNIdLWYcnXnOjvSUsawycQh5PkJyypj0bWEtdNyM_BUe5ehRy69/s320/clutch+lust.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-37849267726323569152010-10-21T14:03:00.000-07:002010-10-21T14:51:05.223-07:00Love AffairI have a love affair with shopping. Actually, it's more of a love/hate relationship. Love the new closet, but hate the dwindling bank account. To find a happy medium, I've decided to limit myself to what I can afford each month. Here are my recent picks<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqySnT0kkLfdP8bdPjekCshgxpumLzqXwIQ9SuwBQPGiTOldSNf2SOw23DwoukM7Xs0V5Ji52uAzTfShDev3qUYDJIvv0y5UuLjz6IKk-caTyo34XVaxO35OPy5qRdq_keE6p8_9Dk_Bf/s1600/gap+tan+jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqySnT0kkLfdP8bdPjekCshgxpumLzqXwIQ9SuwBQPGiTOldSNf2SOw23DwoukM7Xs0V5Ji52uAzTfShDev3qUYDJIvv0y5UuLjz6IKk-caTyo34XVaxO35OPy5qRdq_keE6p8_9Dk_Bf/s320/gap+tan+jacket.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5739&vid=1&pid=770823&scid=770823012">GAP Corduroy Trimmed Utility Jacket </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ADQrlM3C5C4OcIRlc1QZXtS_8bWlJsfIHAI2lTkBXzsC0CWuEyu8IAgkGB54RIIsbBSwJ57ad1eW8ogIWbsRMX8EcpQzR-D_uz9LXlfTlKXHm9lDjAMl7cOb9QD-9ChxWX3oxaRicf_K/s1600/nordstroms+military+cardigan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ADQrlM3C5C4OcIRlc1QZXtS_8bWlJsfIHAI2lTkBXzsC0CWuEyu8IAgkGB54RIIsbBSwJ57ad1eW8ogIWbsRMX8EcpQzR-D_uz9LXlfTlKXHm9lDjAMl7cOb9QD-9ChxWX3oxaRicf_K/s320/nordstroms+military+cardigan.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3137945?origin=category&resultback=95">Nordstrom Military Sweater</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10r_nEvRKpXX4Bwgi3Ub4ksz8rTj8_gNrFnyHN4J7aL-p2BO9a2oMz6FYFV-MbQMuw5JgwTFjbf7tvh2FWN9jNsrBFv3M8VkdbiiQGAWMY7KCoBw3PyxRLMFt66sbn-7VDIhpBIUbuknQ/s1600/cream+blouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10r_nEvRKpXX4Bwgi3Ub4ksz8rTj8_gNrFnyHN4J7aL-p2BO9a2oMz6FYFV-MbQMuw5JgwTFjbf7tvh2FWN9jNsrBFv3M8VkdbiiQGAWMY7KCoBw3PyxRLMFt66sbn-7VDIhpBIUbuknQ/s320/cream+blouse.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/default.asp">Forever 21 Blouse in black</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=21%5Fitems&product%5Fid=2079548118&Page=all#">Forever 21 Striped Sweater Tunic</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftN5X_tCl9FwEBBcuX2uU-y39OE1BNvgbByGsLNHxcFzex1ohyGHgP_AmoLYfDpbhVAu05l6ikWT7pDLG_dPnbm2qRvmoIWCOcZoNB-FN7DN68w0n4PJvN22FpPLg_RybyOno_MJsboyj/s1600/mia+biscuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftN5X_tCl9FwEBBcuX2uU-y39OE1BNvgbByGsLNHxcFzex1ohyGHgP_AmoLYfDpbhVAu05l6ikWT7pDLG_dPnbm2qRvmoIWCOcZoNB-FN7DN68w0n4PJvN22FpPLg_RybyOno_MJsboyj/s1600/mia+biscuit.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; color: #0000ee;"><a href="http://www.dsw.com/shoe/mia+biscuit+suede+wedge+boot?prodId=197559&productRef=SEARCH">DSW Mia Biscuit Wedge Boots in black</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-_JT_kRqpu-YzjmYamRYPGbnFBk2ESKhXLjw0mSWKEiC1Pe0K-QjMVqcbdxGokun3CTnsKALWSqjjwlA-jTOLBf1AVhX5TLIJWL-D-FUMop4hnm9eu_mdzLvfNkQ1zpAKSMIymAHGGRC/s1600/china+glaze+heart+of+africa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-_JT_kRqpu-YzjmYamRYPGbnFBk2ESKhXLjw0mSWKEiC1Pe0K-QjMVqcbdxGokun3CTnsKALWSqjjwlA-jTOLBf1AVhX5TLIJWL-D-FUMop4hnm9eu_mdzLvfNkQ1zpAKSMIymAHGGRC/s1600/china+glaze+heart+of+africa.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">China Glaze: Heart of Africa</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKsqDqKRxt0Y8ugeqZtl76uUCHzUwVclsFs6tuniaUPk-TuLGSAR9FL97OWzmUhutIITzMbXAku-JA3AbupAK-gkKffTC99iySLy9Wuwa02QVaAYvDUR1LnAbO3rxyJlgIsgsoTBaukqo/s1600/china+glaze+nail+polish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKsqDqKRxt0Y8ugeqZtl76uUCHzUwVclsFs6tuniaUPk-TuLGSAR9FL97OWzmUhutIITzMbXAku-JA3AbupAK-gkKffTC99iySLy9Wuwa02QVaAYvDUR1LnAbO3rxyJlgIsgsoTBaukqo/s1600/china+glaze+nail+polish.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">China Glaze: Blue Paradise</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNiSr0anJfDYk74eDveK_4PLj8jvOFfl61Qx9yJkIRnk-wViNLlcyyp8zjPWsUyr59UchVL51LXuUaupb1bCTu1QUXPkNyOh45OUMfVIpwMTSz-hYWv2Vb-PCNyb9yRDVkSbe24HgmkQM8/s1600/OPI+nail+polish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNiSr0anJfDYk74eDveK_4PLj8jvOFfl61Qx9yJkIRnk-wViNLlcyyp8zjPWsUyr59UchVL51LXuUaupb1bCTu1QUXPkNyOh45OUMfVIpwMTSz-hYWv2Vb-PCNyb9yRDVkSbe24HgmkQM8/s1600/OPI+nail+polish.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">OPI: Suzi Skis in the Pyreness</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">xox,</div><div style="text-align: left;">C</div></div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-37800677608001016812010-10-18T17:10:00.000-07:002010-10-18T17:10:58.817-07:00Chicago Part IIThe third day of our Chicago vacation consisted of more good food. We started off at the infamous <a href="http://www.hotdougs.com/">Hot Doug's</a> for lunch to kick start our day. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Foie Gras Duck Sausage, Ribeye Steak Sausage, Jack Daniels Pork Sausage, Merguez Lamb Sausage, Chicago Dog, and Duck Fat Fries</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">All of this was split between 3 people and it was delicious. I regret not getting the Foie Gras Duck Sausage for myself because it was the best dog I've ever had. The duck fat fries were all right, but better with the cheese sauce. Doug was even at the counter ready to take our order!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After lunch, we had a 1:30 reservation for the Wendella Boat Chicago River Architecture Tour. It was neat to see all of the amazing buildings along the Chicago river. A ton of great views and information about Chicago itself. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7Fq4tgKmA14KLw_Rmtjwhn0emKzu4-QBOOijWDGPqpxN5dAx66-zB1LCzW3Z_WrGe6_JuhvSIrLMScl16dlxC1hxcTMoMpd30qq8q1ThWq9PBo1XPelE5UoyzWY4IC_U6ierhnnTs2WB/s1600/DSC02074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7Fq4tgKmA14KLw_Rmtjwhn0emKzu4-QBOOijWDGPqpxN5dAx66-zB1LCzW3Z_WrGe6_JuhvSIrLMScl16dlxC1hxcTMoMpd30qq8q1ThWq9PBo1XPelE5UoyzWY4IC_U6ierhnnTs2WB/s320/DSC02074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the boat tour, we did tons of shopping on Miracle Mile. I had to hunt down this watch that I've been wanting for a while...now it's all mine :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIzwglvUcLtTpzmB-48yWsU768ewWANCcBqSEJkac9Dc0dvf6e1Kn-kM2ARJzDa51AVGWMfvx_3I8fofQEST8VQdwQJUDvLPUScRBV87iyeK-AJGT3ElBujCY4NMMOslWvSS-CjTnmI9h/s1600/marc+jacobs+watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIzwglvUcLtTpzmB-48yWsU768ewWANCcBqSEJkac9Dc0dvf6e1Kn-kM2ARJzDa51AVGWMfvx_3I8fofQEST8VQdwQJUDvLPUScRBV87iyeK-AJGT3ElBujCY4NMMOslWvSS-CjTnmI9h/s320/marc+jacobs+watch.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After all the shopping, we were exhausted and headed back to my cousins for a late nap before walking to dinner. We had dinner at <a href="http://www.hotchocolatechicago.com/">Hot Chocolate</a> and it has to be my top 5 meals. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We started off with two appetizers that I unfortunately forgot to take a picture of. We got the Pate and Shrimp&Grits. Both were really good. Then came my amazing meal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjFrOLyop4xDn0vTL0ZI7wkuawqlpERWZt1RVWc8RRNP_2dA_yfm9PD0N6IUpmuorpAWYfonydTOi2ievSgRilYSyF4tGvYyQKBgLZBBswXOb6lLTJXj7iGK5D79Y1YCDwL4txVcOQkhh/s1600/mac+and+cheese" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjFrOLyop4xDn0vTL0ZI7wkuawqlpERWZt1RVWc8RRNP_2dA_yfm9PD0N6IUpmuorpAWYfonydTOi2ievSgRilYSyF4tGvYyQKBgLZBBswXOb6lLTJXj7iGK5D79Y1YCDwL4txVcOQkhh/s320/mac+and+cheese" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mac and Cheese to share: elbow macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce made with Rothkase gruyere and Carr Valley mammoth cheddar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC3E4WyouVIrVg7hBHNozwk32SmpGplyoWxpaYUYYJQz8Z2-5dXv1zJEeLVWIDR8PgUAg55SiQ6WL6MXNgzE7HyYPA63dpGonzsitlfMMHVFrooZOqio0rWoC9HoO2wu6t2OtR-Fo9pGo/s1600/risotto" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC3E4WyouVIrVg7hBHNozwk32SmpGplyoWxpaYUYYJQz8Z2-5dXv1zJEeLVWIDR8PgUAg55SiQ6WL6MXNgzE7HyYPA63dpGonzsitlfMMHVFrooZOqio0rWoC9HoO2wu6t2OtR-Fo9pGo/s320/risotto" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Special of the day: mushroom risotto</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Holy yum it was so good. I've never had a good mushroom risotto until Hot Chocolate. The macaroni and cheese was one of the best I've ever had. The cheese sauce was to die for. Must go back again! We also had dessert and of course hot chocolate, but that went unpictured also. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Saturday was Chicago Gourmet, the whole reason of our trip to Chicago. I'll let the pictures tell it all</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrZ91IWLYdyqKUOxgQamPhgbUu1YloniN8nZEVol3CMBY8KTjU0eCho64V5L3g68tujpPnGtjQRdSTThKr3Q-H0kO4Q6Vv8Hk8uNawUEvah_VjJ_G3PF-L5wlcSSkLI_swK0ZRAjRh9hyphenhyphen/s1600/chicago+gourmet1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrZ91IWLYdyqKUOxgQamPhgbUu1YloniN8nZEVol3CMBY8KTjU0eCho64V5L3g68tujpPnGtjQRdSTThKr3Q-H0kO4Q6Vv8Hk8uNawUEvah_VjJ_G3PF-L5wlcSSkLI_swK0ZRAjRh9hyphenhyphen/s320/chicago+gourmet1" width="191" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CYSpqW4Wi8_CU1YxAbuuyQuoRs4EAqF9DCgSaGP-qwIcJzxNVJEwuLsjp7jXQCCVrhBzCy4gJKHZC87oYQoHgSx6FrABYAXplfxrHY6qvqwbLi6U-eFHX8pmeV7naHjfXm1Sb42EFE-o/s1600/DSC02123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CYSpqW4Wi8_CU1YxAbuuyQuoRs4EAqF9DCgSaGP-qwIcJzxNVJEwuLsjp7jXQCCVrhBzCy4gJKHZC87oYQoHgSx6FrABYAXplfxrHY6qvqwbLi6U-eFHX8pmeV7naHjfXm1Sb42EFE-o/s320/DSC02123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlM3eQL2BCvPM_I6W7TnaHfBd-U6fBzN-L2yYy5sp7KowuEmhpfZp0CIdIGjPO4eyvGvnm3zApnnBf9dww33sx8l1suqAdlIWYMrYYHRDZQ1KeFk05hDaLhUB_xEtXqx-QtvPrHxtBBx3/s1600/DSC02150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlM3eQL2BCvPM_I6W7TnaHfBd-U6fBzN-L2yYy5sp7KowuEmhpfZp0CIdIGjPO4eyvGvnm3zApnnBf9dww33sx8l1suqAdlIWYMrYYHRDZQ1KeFk05hDaLhUB_xEtXqx-QtvPrHxtBBx3/s320/DSC02150.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Met some celebrity chefs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSvmDsc4OlSSP-wkbq6hCUml7r76X01EOJAh6edjnM0EAk0H1Wh_rCwAggtTc4S8NuvWkjyYnAD_FDphoYBbohYCOGFAC_dcmPopxxJDZEl8qHXa3Bo01SptaB8GgfhayfyssayUWnktT/s1600/DSC02117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSvmDsc4OlSSP-wkbq6hCUml7r76X01EOJAh6edjnM0EAk0H1Wh_rCwAggtTc4S8NuvWkjyYnAD_FDphoYBbohYCOGFAC_dcmPopxxJDZEl8qHXa3Bo01SptaB8GgfhayfyssayUWnktT/s320/DSC02117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elliot Graham</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb_DpkLbPki4kmKsD6L5oD1d-diPa_CQx3k6ZoaizYG56UdQoo62zurftIn8e69AG5hfbwANRyEr201VyYDYqBx6TGZpTHnM_HE8yxUldxkWGrd9I2YMSzmemd1W-9oF3bOzsCiYgTdc6/s1600/DSC02142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb_DpkLbPki4kmKsD6L5oD1d-diPa_CQx3k6ZoaizYG56UdQoo62zurftIn8e69AG5hfbwANRyEr201VyYDYqBx6TGZpTHnM_HE8yxUldxkWGrd9I2YMSzmemd1W-9oF3bOzsCiYgTdc6/s320/DSC02142.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Michelin Man (yes, he's a celebrity)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMZrhoCUp0AZT7nxL60JCrzOqMrLCqkixGcG7ZzgCSGkL1_PhwGRYg0M4O7ckgOIF6AltjmovwfuaTqXq6M-glXFgGNr4hXkjVKkwISU5F7uBK44Ea1e_NXQEnd19cfAUkQ4cT8Fyb48r/s1600/DSC02145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMZrhoCUp0AZT7nxL60JCrzOqMrLCqkixGcG7ZzgCSGkL1_PhwGRYg0M4O7ckgOIF6AltjmovwfuaTqXq6M-glXFgGNr4hXkjVKkwISU5F7uBK44Ea1e_NXQEnd19cfAUkQ4cT8Fyb48r/s320/DSC02145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cat Cora</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6GPlKLBK4Z2WhtoWG2hTyRUqcNmDTGvdm0Yht1apXAzYA3KKiMMfr3ly6CAMcVR9T2N5XIUyQtNYr3nw7n4udJ1H-I60Ig0PYy-NJOr_A9nhsVIV0XiwOX6b63cw7_YTBBgZRxb21cNI/s1600/DSC02147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6GPlKLBK4Z2WhtoWG2hTyRUqcNmDTGvdm0Yht1apXAzYA3KKiMMfr3ly6CAMcVR9T2N5XIUyQtNYr3nw7n4udJ1H-I60Ig0PYy-NJOr_A9nhsVIV0XiwOX6b63cw7_YTBBgZRxb21cNI/s320/DSC02147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ted Allen</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On top of all the food and celebrities, there were hundreds of wine, beer, and liquor tents. I came for the food, so didn't indulge in too much alcohol. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The last two days will be my last Chicago post. You'll have to wait for those because one of the restaurants fell into my top 3 places I've ever eaten at.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">xox,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">C</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-81122251125852838402010-10-08T17:10:00.000-07:002010-10-08T17:10:00.656-07:00Chicago Part ITwo weeks ago, I took the BF to Chicago for his birthday. Actually, let me rephrase that, his birthday happened to land on the same weekend as <a href="http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/">Chicago Gourmet</a>. I've been planning this since May when my cousin got the pre-sale tickets. Perfect time to visit my cousin & his fiance and to celebrate the BFs birthday.<div><br />
</div><div>Day 1:</div><div><br />
</div><div>Our first stop on our foodie trip was <a href="http://www.kumascorner.com/">Kuma's Corner</a></div><div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju14M0ICrbhbPgyk9jvXi_wOhOOkQ5IWif1tMmroxox8JMo_E9h02nynlHjl3enYrea8o5e4qiOjSfMuEXWs4ikuB2m9dXYjqT_W7sZ729ap7UYR2wIzq3oOLm0R0Q5icbUFXHqsFXw2fv/s1600/DSC01964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju14M0ICrbhbPgyk9jvXi_wOhOOkQ5IWif1tMmroxox8JMo_E9h02nynlHjl3enYrea8o5e4qiOjSfMuEXWs4ikuB2m9dXYjqT_W7sZ729ap7UYR2wIzq3oOLm0R0Q5icbUFXHqsFXw2fv/s320/DSC01964.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Southampton Pumpkin Ale</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XhtBORqsroBtjntXtVp2ACG9Pa9ePnxxtVT3cgbVvBT-dzpuXzBqCKvMWUE_p0I1Sc9o06VTs4eA7qovDQ2beYrje-7-6bcQ2GmebjoNH3RzQpuhoYhxs4fRmWL33aPbpFWVwyKS26VM/s1600/DSC01966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XhtBORqsroBtjntXtVp2ACG9Pa9ePnxxtVT3cgbVvBT-dzpuXzBqCKvMWUE_p0I1Sc9o06VTs4eA7qovDQ2beYrje-7-6bcQ2GmebjoNH3RzQpuhoYhxs4fRmWL33aPbpFWVwyKS26VM/s320/DSC01966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got the YOB: smoked gouda, bacon, roasted red peppers, roasted garlic mayo on a pretzel bun</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyjfYWsTXG2mmL6Rx3MqhlB_7SQnF5GeCvEb2CJvevsGh3O_O218q7Ma3HXUsoucvqRYQPoj3S4UC2ydEB1TOilWilY9K9aqU15ypOVuaOx_t7rgasQxDRHcahxenWVlEuKMA5ufeMocY/s1600/DSC01967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyjfYWsTXG2mmL6Rx3MqhlB_7SQnF5GeCvEb2CJvevsGh3O_O218q7Ma3HXUsoucvqRYQPoj3S4UC2ydEB1TOilWilY9K9aqU15ypOVuaOx_t7rgasQxDRHcahxenWVlEuKMA5ufeMocY/s320/DSC01967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The BF got the Mastodon: BBQ sauce, cheddar, bacon, frizzled onions on a pretzel bun</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kuma's was the perfect way to start off our trip. I absolutely loved the burger I got. The pretzel bun is what made it so delicious. I later found out that Kuma's was featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Later that night, the four of us walked down the street to a bar. The thing I love about big cities is being able to walk everywhere. It was a 5 minute walk from their house to any nightlife. We went to <a href="http://www.bigstarchicago.com/">Big Star</a> for a late night beer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCICxa6DhA_MBNeUFWKXjYC3K4iGSOyuGA4RAOpHtjD1zd2jPUv5R9QJCNrdr0lALaK1Ulz7zbzdKg_LIw08g3SeMu3crdPldX6PqrFult72DdbY0CaG4oPtV1JworXZQi6ZRjIdbMsab/s1600/DSC01971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCICxa6DhA_MBNeUFWKXjYC3K4iGSOyuGA4RAOpHtjD1zd2jPUv5R9QJCNrdr0lALaK1Ulz7zbzdKg_LIw08g3SeMu3crdPldX6PqrFult72DdbY0CaG4oPtV1JworXZQi6ZRjIdbMsab/s320/DSC01971.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Started off with a Schlitz. It's Chicago's version of a PBR or whatever cheap beer people drink. It was actually quite tasty</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To continue eating my way thru Chicago, we ordered some tacos</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuxFbDir2i6uOHznmsq7xghhrZUH-oslyk6quCOLHrxRtYh8yaMYnqIRlUmwSaAieB1FgFl5uVJXGUFXBCr0RmF13zsYdTgK2z4ELsAdb7eZilwLU_eUbzk-WomJD7-1bZgKFC2V4GmXA/s1600/DSC01972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuxFbDir2i6uOHznmsq7xghhrZUH-oslyk6quCOLHrxRtYh8yaMYnqIRlUmwSaAieB1FgFl5uVJXGUFXBCr0RmF13zsYdTgK2z4ELsAdb7eZilwLU_eUbzk-WomJD7-1bZgKFC2V4GmXA/s320/DSC01972.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had the Tacos de Panza: crispy pork belly, tomato guajilla sauce, queso fresco, onions, and cilantro</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was so delicious! Perfect way to top off my night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Day 2:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Chicago is known for their deep dish pizza, so I knew I had to try it when I was there. Per my cousins recommendation, we went to <a href="http://www.loumalnatis.com/">Lou Malnatis</a>. My cousin met us up during his lunch break and we all split the 'The Lou'</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kYo8TYRSIHZvQ_UeTCVA9pRJMKzr5tWGSrZbywTNsZBQh5bw8myjZ4JW6v16yOwQ1vcEaGttIxV6Z1VdjA0P9P0thiHESEoI6VJzzDDM0sBdggvzyUyB3NmGJJFTr1yJ0cJwqYZ7diSc/s1600/DSC01977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kYo8TYRSIHZvQ_UeTCVA9pRJMKzr5tWGSrZbywTNsZBQh5bw8myjZ4JW6v16yOwQ1vcEaGttIxV6Z1VdjA0P9P0thiHESEoI6VJzzDDM0sBdggvzyUyB3NmGJJFTr1yJ0cJwqYZ7diSc/s320/DSC01977.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Lou: fresh spinach, mushrooms, sliced tomatoes, sausage, and a blend of mozzerella, romano, and cheddar cheese all on top of a butter crust. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This picture does this pizza no justice at all. The pizza was so beyond delicious, I wanted to eat the whole thing. It was different from normal crust pizzas and packed with flavor. The butter crust was an option, but definitely worth the extra <s>500</s> calories.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After lunch, we walked down to Millenium Park for our 2:30 segway tour. I thought segways were completely dorky until we actually started to use them. They were so much fun and we covered so much ground in 2 1/2 hours. The tour guide was amazing and told us about some cool Chicago history. We had previously bought a Groupon from <a href="http://www.bikechicago.com/">Bike Chicago</a> and highly recommend it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhplwxK6Y-2TePssaTnTGEnao_jh1zycDHirnIzoqarbTCBA-owNoj_sIzQpAeLFpZtpfiE7sXDqmVSlRSuR5I8bcpX_lhMbgOwbjNAPEpilc0cwXPEp1HonOTAwqP-Bpaf6eVyMei49Qms/s1600/DSC01989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhplwxK6Y-2TePssaTnTGEnao_jh1zycDHirnIzoqarbTCBA-owNoj_sIzQpAeLFpZtpfiE7sXDqmVSlRSuR5I8bcpX_lhMbgOwbjNAPEpilc0cwXPEp1HonOTAwqP-Bpaf6eVyMei49Qms/s320/DSC01989.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Do you recognize this fountain? It's from the intro to Married with Children. So neat to see in person.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_xPdw1SJ1Bwxymm5PoLsUesk3kR5GuAYwj-RfPhPoPVouq1-wFv76keGVUA6q035jNW2Q0RxTAr164fyQUGih6gfpEqs4CbPtNuNZSOf8HyyYuXGtgaaV4NK1VUB_83kzdLuBpm03eh9/s1600/DSC02007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_xPdw1SJ1Bwxymm5PoLsUesk3kR5GuAYwj-RfPhPoPVouq1-wFv76keGVUA6q035jNW2Q0RxTAr164fyQUGih6gfpEqs4CbPtNuNZSOf8HyyYuXGtgaaV4NK1VUB_83kzdLuBpm03eh9/s320/DSC02007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We segwayed along the lakefront and got some amazing views of the city</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When we got back to my cousins, Cecile had bought us some desserts from Bake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGg7o_LD4VuFU3DjxN47o1AlD53QrZnUiozMk-HJkewBOOMd_zlZT0Ba2cuzq1Ghk_wmlP0vYGtUZRIWraoQRxzuq6TC3ooLREtER2SsU4ik8erclRkasHdmmCBeeRLi3CF2-D5FFVruZ4/s1600/DSC02016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGg7o_LD4VuFU3DjxN47o1AlD53QrZnUiozMk-HJkewBOOMd_zlZT0Ba2cuzq1Ghk_wmlP0vYGtUZRIWraoQRxzuq6TC3ooLREtER2SsU4ik8erclRkasHdmmCBeeRLi3CF2-D5FFVruZ4/s320/DSC02016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After we had dessert, we went out to dinner at <a href="http://www.buona-terra.com/">Buona Terra</a>. We had so much dessert during those five days, it was ridiculous. I no longer want to hear "but it's my birthday month" ever again</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did their prix fixe meal which included a full size appetizer, any entree, and dessert for $21.95. Such a great deal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMTXNm9opnUQKol0fXPCZ2J_uu1s3fWbNEn-keuRTAP2iKrxhaOPuIMp4d3HRpwxEUS8-evCzYAbNjxrY1LWGUr3pWbbKGDrswF9KO7-Z1Kbw1hbrhcUvBg4kiUSdIoMxQyekqUvAI3Oz/s1600/DSC02017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMTXNm9opnUQKol0fXPCZ2J_uu1s3fWbNEn-keuRTAP2iKrxhaOPuIMp4d3HRpwxEUS8-evCzYAbNjxrY1LWGUr3pWbbKGDrswF9KO7-Z1Kbw1hbrhcUvBg4kiUSdIoMxQyekqUvAI3Oz/s320/DSC02017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crispy calamari with a spicy tomato sauce</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iHJvD2F-9Sl2Ls8T2ADFc3oVEjUgph2PHu_JrDFa4kbzgnKca3sOj8ii-SP7NDiMD4eQ4dwWJjv8XFzwDZVqzNP3GIejGB3DzgvrO32U8KoHh0CE3-VIm_qLVUcTEWVIQlhbj9q94jWx/s1600/DSC02019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iHJvD2F-9Sl2Ls8T2ADFc3oVEjUgph2PHu_JrDFa4kbzgnKca3sOj8ii-SP7NDiMD4eQ4dwWJjv8XFzwDZVqzNP3GIejGB3DzgvrO32U8KoHh0CE3-VIm_qLVUcTEWVIQlhbj9q94jWx/s320/DSC02019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rotini di la Nona: corkscrew pasta, proscuitto, mushrooms, peas (yuck), and parmesan cream sauce.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Unpictured: bread basket with the most amazing garlic spread and my peach & pistachio gelato </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another amazing meal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Writing this post is making me very hungry and wishing I was back in Chicago. We got so lucky with meals because every single meal was perfect and I wouldn't have changed anything. Part II will be posted soon. Don't want to overload you on pictures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-8871463152122095542010-09-10T13:18:00.000-07:002010-09-10T13:18:27.234-07:00Back AgainAfter a couple months of not blogging, I've finally decided to start up again. The reason for the long hiatus was because I didn't know what direction I wanted to go in. After reading a blog post from <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/blog/2010/09/ten-important-things-ive-learned-about-blogging/">The Pioneer Woman</a> I decided that I don't necessarily need to write only about one thing. Therefore, my blog will be a mix of everything I love. Food, fashion, and travel. I have a couple of trips coming up and will hopefully get back into the swing of blogging all about it. <br />
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This past summer has been full of sending out resumes and 2 weeks of living out of a suitcase (lake cabin, SF, and Vegas all within 2 weeks). Its gone by pretty quick and I still don't have a full time job. I'm not completely bummed out by it since I'm experimenting with a couple of different things. I'm not quite sure what I want to do yet, so internships are the way to go. <br />
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Here's a recap of this past summer fun:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qn4mrAZtkUcoKWB2aaW88yF3RCwmGneuYOP25H9qjo72ijbnaFVPf_U5HogdnbDnqbYEvy6FGwNQ4pSRpmOXWKpsNhMgBUpbzXiXj5W-rPoEkQeWY_6e_CY7PPSynPqsPI_3ZzThRtKU/s1600/DSC01509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qn4mrAZtkUcoKWB2aaW88yF3RCwmGneuYOP25H9qjo72ijbnaFVPf_U5HogdnbDnqbYEvy6FGwNQ4pSRpmOXWKpsNhMgBUpbzXiXj5W-rPoEkQeWY_6e_CY7PPSynPqsPI_3ZzThRtKU/s320/DSC01509.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">First and foremost, I graduated. YAY ME!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmI03DLi5mT8-n-caiWhifFLaPg9gptE-09iNcdxnTtDUBm_e3uD_I7SvHTVVikt_WDUnQkSWnAGb_ZnYe2CM_o-f1UzJXNgTU0rUVGMhsg08zf39GtGefLEVVVJgeUX0YWY2vjn2dhGa/s1600/DSC01877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmI03DLi5mT8-n-caiWhifFLaPg9gptE-09iNcdxnTtDUBm_e3uD_I7SvHTVVikt_WDUnQkSWnAGb_ZnYe2CM_o-f1UzJXNgTU0rUVGMhsg08zf39GtGefLEVVVJgeUX0YWY2vjn2dhGa/s320/DSC01877.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">San Francisco fun with Vy</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYUqVwE_m365nvQj1D6PP5IcOKpQ2Iajth22UfQRVMlK590w0u290ZxtY-jpMYv_5JuYxNBNjcJcUOAD9cWn0pKbwy4HLsujh0X-XMg2pIrgUu-z1b2L9MMm3DWwplLByneBEi96ecy6r/s1600/DSC01816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYUqVwE_m365nvQj1D6PP5IcOKpQ2Iajth22UfQRVMlK590w0u290ZxtY-jpMYv_5JuYxNBNjcJcUOAD9cWn0pKbwy4HLsujh0X-XMg2pIrgUu-z1b2L9MMm3DWwplLByneBEi96ecy6r/s320/DSC01816.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Serendipity in Vegas</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_aj8-d4ClvXKsYHTlk_SjGJx5RfVyqe_gWcuE2x1Y_6Oh21_lPzz90rX1fqyUQK3AV4ULEFvAx_vtUrM0OGrmtgve9M2C1dMhqhPgFuR04nE6MJHUhdLq2o3SzU2b1pgSLXPNsKMUSpX/s1600/DSC01804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_aj8-d4ClvXKsYHTlk_SjGJx5RfVyqe_gWcuE2x1Y_6Oh21_lPzz90rX1fqyUQK3AV4ULEFvAx_vtUrM0OGrmtgve9M2C1dMhqhPgFuR04nE6MJHUhdLq2o3SzU2b1pgSLXPNsKMUSpX/s320/DSC01804.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Kim and Nhi's wedding</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Some other things I didn't get pictures of was lake cabin with good friends and Del Mar racetracks. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some good eats throughout the summer:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj766UxScpGzNvJlfgwQkjzVFtbeRSXGk5Mm0YSpDjWlx7hmT-G_v02HQJMckKLc33Kx0apNzRg17hBDZ9Av85VPfRNdTgrLkzKVZjv6oi5CeZKINt3AW8IKSlOfSetOR73a0tZotmJnkz2/s1600/DSC01817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj766UxScpGzNvJlfgwQkjzVFtbeRSXGk5Mm0YSpDjWlx7hmT-G_v02HQJMckKLc33Kx0apNzRg17hBDZ9Av85VPfRNdTgrLkzKVZjv6oi5CeZKINt3AW8IKSlOfSetOR73a0tZotmJnkz2/s320/DSC01817.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Todd burger made it to my top 5 burgers I've ever had.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIqAggFrIONcAjj6wrADXlO7CGnxQTO-xt7Hj3RGPznopa1HlHjvwRF7N97NdTQKFihlEr8ttw7xn_zSI6HFK3Yif4Qrvdgj79LAwu587EppDN0RfWHNRDhVEdsoWfNsK7z3smXcB9I0w/s1600/DSC01833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIqAggFrIONcAjj6wrADXlO7CGnxQTO-xt7Hj3RGPznopa1HlHjvwRF7N97NdTQKFihlEr8ttw7xn_zSI6HFK3Yif4Qrvdgj79LAwu587EppDN0RfWHNRDhVEdsoWfNsK7z3smXcB9I0w/s320/DSC01833.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From San Francisco Ferry Building</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cave Aged Gruyere from Cowgirl Creamery Artisan Cheese</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Salami Pepato from Boccalone</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Green Onion Loaf from Acme Bread</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNn0zSM8u2mCeEpAj5Pot7FlwlJ73T0AAgHDtcX-JE1VSQyb8bo7U_TLvHQN60Xs7XwCxGI5ULJKZacwXbXFzo7o88oYmcNpfRu-mDvx2Clcm6swaWbsABlumwyXfPW3nCwi1BXWRmoQD/s1600/DSC01844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNn0zSM8u2mCeEpAj5Pot7FlwlJ73T0AAgHDtcX-JE1VSQyb8bo7U_TLvHQN60Xs7XwCxGI5ULJKZacwXbXFzo7o88oYmcNpfRu-mDvx2Clcm6swaWbsABlumwyXfPW3nCwi1BXWRmoQD/s320/DSC01844.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fried Catfish w/ mac&cheese and mashed potatoes and gravy from Hard Knox Cafe in San Francisco</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll leave you with that. I'm excited to start blogging again :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">xox,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cindy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-77339608002314135752010-04-24T16:25:00.000-07:002010-04-24T16:28:32.941-07:00Wine and Cheese PleaseA couple of weeks ago I scored myself two tickets to the Zinfandel Grand Wine Tasting at <a href="http://www.theislandhotel.com/">The Island Hotel</a> in Newport Beach. I won these tickets from a little contest that <a href="http://www.griffineatsoc.com/">Griffin Eats OC</a> held on his blog. This was my first wine tasting event and didn't know how it would be set up. I've only ever done wine tasting at Napa and enjoyed it so much, I thought I would like this event also. <br />
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</div><div>Upon arriving at the event, we were given a wine glass to walk around for pours. We walked into a big room and there were tons of tables set up with each winery giving out pours. My wine of choice has always been white wines, but by looking around the room I realized it was only red Zinfandels. Bummer. I sucked it up and tried tons of different wineries. I knew I wouldn't remember my favorites so I took a picture of them</div><div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEq0ojZkNNLsPnpooGLE30RuSC07TTS5oEsrQwOxXox3eT44g1AzEy5F0KalG22erln8juoPlCz7XPRIvAKU4e1gcVzlzy9h1f0765iqm3B_qhay33s9OuXJnsKBZSX3MEvYMoHYbXal0O/s1600/DSC01328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEq0ojZkNNLsPnpooGLE30RuSC07TTS5oEsrQwOxXox3eT44g1AzEy5F0KalG22erln8juoPlCz7XPRIvAKU4e1gcVzlzy9h1f0765iqm3B_qhay33s9OuXJnsKBZSX3MEvYMoHYbXal0O/s320/DSC01328.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hSIyxCJkwba1iuYl9E0yrWehchLdTH6kxABieApNBSpBNWuRFK0PB9eBrcJv9UCiZGhu2MlNRYwUksxuJMH7AdN8VkIJBH2x0sAbmDNlL40eJrxvvmQv7O7GQooBhayFcwHPQ4nUZ-eK/s1600/DSC01329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hSIyxCJkwba1iuYl9E0yrWehchLdTH6kxABieApNBSpBNWuRFK0PB9eBrcJv9UCiZGhu2MlNRYwUksxuJMH7AdN8VkIJBH2x0sAbmDNlL40eJrxvvmQv7O7GQooBhayFcwHPQ4nUZ-eK/s320/DSC01329.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Of all the wines, the Barefoot Zinfandel was my favorite. I find this funny because that is the only wine that cost under $10. Cheap and good? I'll take it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My favorite part was the cheese. I think I enjoyed the cheese a little more than the wine. When they brought out the tower of cheese, people swarmed over as if 100 dollar bills were scattered all over the table. It was definitely a fight just to get a couple of pieces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall, it was a good experience to go wine tasting. I enjoyed the red wines a lot more than I thought I would. I am always open to trying new things and who knew I would take a liking to red wines. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4324725412364860256.post-84379601196306052922010-04-21T17:33:00.000-07:002010-04-21T17:34:55.611-07:00Restaurant Review: CPKLast week we decided to head out to Downtown Fullerton with a couple of friends. Before heading out, we stopped for dinner at California Pizza Kitchen at Main Place. This wasn't our first choice, but when we saw the wait for Olive Garden we quickly turned the other direction. I've never been a big fan of a sit down CPK, I prefer CPK ASAP at South Coast Plaza. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgRDlQHXz3ex2yvLOh5Gyd1ukirRvmHFBqqEwX6nWyUl9BMR8idEGtkf_MpY5xcIOveOOOss3XqCXhoh4IXdorh-iBL-HvQ0aMjNN7mYYfKvG3NtNfMnGyHfVeic2iYlOZvk2957_S-KD/s1600/DSC01318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgRDlQHXz3ex2yvLOh5Gyd1ukirRvmHFBqqEwX6nWyUl9BMR8idEGtkf_MpY5xcIOveOOOss3XqCXhoh4IXdorh-iBL-HvQ0aMjNN7mYYfKvG3NtNfMnGyHfVeic2iYlOZvk2957_S-KD/s320/DSC01318.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We started off with the Crispy Artichoke Hearts from their Small Cravings Menu. It came with a remoulade sauce which was delicious. I am currently obsessed with artichokes mixed in everything. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbgdPC4-hSCJG4ot6xUYRkzQCclotHMbRQWBw22nsJGLtpHKh4wjaEW1VLAlPqRNN3_z88Y3oe7S6B7s2eeveGrGk0e2qPSCoeXXKHdhxWEyu7R7PJnI59028RjjKfF2YhfiHjeYkMuj2/s1600/DSC01320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbgdPC4-hSCJG4ot6xUYRkzQCclotHMbRQWBw22nsJGLtpHKh4wjaEW1VLAlPqRNN3_z88Y3oe7S6B7s2eeveGrGk0e2qPSCoeXXKHdhxWEyu7R7PJnI59028RjjKfF2YhfiHjeYkMuj2/s320/DSC01320.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had the Portobello Mushroom Ravioli with a tomato cream sauce. You can choose either a tomato sauce or the garlic cream sauce. I decided to have the best of both worlds. I prefer mushroom ravioli over and other type. I also loved the strands of basil in the dish, it added a nice touch. I would definitely get this again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR33NmectqN9YMD7ARfDim9Y-rRWxE3ssExeFtyymnt4vTXC-ZqdEvol6HcvW8T0VRIGa95yzfPU5_k9M9xjlcgmKdHg__tvp299byyM-aspXlYO5mOWxUlOe_KMIAm0WbYksfuJiLIEuO/s1600/DSC01323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR33NmectqN9YMD7ARfDim9Y-rRWxE3ssExeFtyymnt4vTXC-ZqdEvol6HcvW8T0VRIGa95yzfPU5_k9M9xjlcgmKdHg__tvp299byyM-aspXlYO5mOWxUlOe_KMIAm0WbYksfuJiLIEuO/s320/DSC01323.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Boyfriend got the Garlic Cream Fettuccine. It was a bit too heavy for me, but I loved that you could actually taste the garlic in it. I am pro garlic and tons of it too :)</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyPVoqOb4RC2-HdnZZd1Sdt3NN8gqTIp7P2D5JpWnXjcuaz_a-uaJCyBxvLWh-PMy_Y1HFhMAuV-AGSl73vLXw8TbASK4iqJKMCaub_WWDY7D2zlW_wSgtZ_IRB3DXinbtyo25wyWLIfa/s1600/DSC01324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyPVoqOb4RC2-HdnZZd1Sdt3NN8gqTIp7P2D5JpWnXjcuaz_a-uaJCyBxvLWh-PMy_Y1HFhMAuV-AGSl73vLXw8TbASK4iqJKMCaub_WWDY7D2zlW_wSgtZ_IRB3DXinbtyo25wyWLIfa/s320/DSC01324.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Steve got the Chicken Lettuce Wraps. He gave me a piece and it tasted like lettuce wraps you can get anywhere, nothing too special</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRRyoudfnsJAP10yu345Ld-knML4f7J2rbsIIUkqx4bJBVd8RaWtmcW8d7UYR2ntEgQTym5UPfB1e9Hv49ucNw_OTh3CtJD1a7zVyNmwfWx4YkQHcFH7-EBcJci0XnSBHW7Sgm57mY2Zt/s1600/DSC01322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRRyoudfnsJAP10yu345Ld-knML4f7J2rbsIIUkqx4bJBVd8RaWtmcW8d7UYR2ntEgQTym5UPfB1e9Hv49ucNw_OTh3CtJD1a7zVyNmwfWx4YkQHcFH7-EBcJci0XnSBHW7Sgm57mY2Zt/s320/DSC01322.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hoang got the Broccoli Sun-Dried Tomato Fusilli. I really liked this because it was light. Sun-Dried tomatoes adds such a great flavor to pastas. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhgmF4YgiqPdfV9rOlI3TqCHq-nejR7l4G4H0Iu-TUq0wzWQMoG40TUCtVYGLd5IIK4TgbhGiTLe96BW_HPlmxnIw-rlG0_eziRZN2ZcIM5vpzW4JV5QK5N_FWgxDjhedJhl1oxRl7EzB/s1600/DSC01321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhgmF4YgiqPdfV9rOlI3TqCHq-nejR7l4G4H0Iu-TUq0wzWQMoG40TUCtVYGLd5IIK4TgbhGiTLe96BW_HPlmxnIw-rlG0_eziRZN2ZcIM5vpzW4JV5QK5N_FWgxDjhedJhl1oxRl7EzB/s320/DSC01321.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hoang and Daniel shared a half order of the BBQ Chicken Salad. It was your basic BBQ salad, nothing too fancy. I like that there wasn't too much dressing covering it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After our dinner party, we headed over to a friends house to do some pre-partying before heading to Downtown Fullerton. We started off at Matador Cantina where we had a couple of drinks. Some friends tried meeting us up there, but the line was too long so we left and headed to Cherch Lounge. The line was not moving at all so we walked on over to Heroes. I love that bar for their laid back atmosphere and unlimited peanuts. They have tons of beers on tap and peanut shells covering their floor. It was definitely my kind of bar.</div>Cindy W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00393433234722167965noreply@blogger.com0