tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86729306639871719782024-03-06T02:07:24.773-06:00Carmine BlueMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931639162411859291noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-17214443411716762532018-12-23T11:16:00.002-06:002021-12-15T07:24:22.044-06:002018 - Year In Review<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJWP_KqOC_24mfPe7PMak1nvVguGu-x8SB8Ji-pUUrJuM8aPhw_2Neg_dCeOgv5lQpjzWQrw0EO5fjQH4tuvhZC1nHjlJSmTiRnzucBbSaEvNa3x7lOOpDZwp2BRkBufdMYNXPM1pS1Xk/w667-h889-no/?.jpg" width="664" /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /><div> <img 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<br />
<br />
These were my favorite moments throughout 2018:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>1. </b>Spending New Years Eve with Arthel and Mac at a local Korean cafe<br />
<b>2.</b> Celebrating Mac's birthday with a traditional Polish pear cake<br />
<b>3</b>. Finally completing my gaming/editing rig<br />
<b>4.</b> Driving hours to try out one of the best burger joints in Illinois<br />
<b>5.</b> Doing a cross-country road trip with Mac from Arizona, Utah, Colorado, all the way to Illinois<br />
<b>6.</b> Finally visiting Alder's Planetarium<br />
<b>7. </b>Celebrating my birthday with gifts from family back home<br />
<b>8. </b>Left a job that was not for me and starting a new job that I absolutely love (and working alongside coworkers I enjoy being around)<br />
<b>9.</b> Rescuing Milo, our half Schipperke half Chihuahua mix<br />
<b>10. </b>Spending time with my sister's family while she was in town<br />
<b>11. </b>Getting married<br />
<b>12. </b>Learning to enjoy every minute of life despite its ups and downs</blockquote>
<br />
2018 wasn't perfect, but it did bring a lot of great things. With all the mistakes that were made this year, I'm ready to take on whatever 2019 has to throw at me.</div></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931639162411859291noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-78566099811782703862018-10-08T08:45:00.000-05:002018-10-08T08:45:12.384-05:00Cause and Effect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGTSdbmFjeFgwbisgL1R2q4VMEEeTg0_6Z0FJm6ijN9HXsRPzvXLjUMBhfvBkkIGQ0h_p5OPY5SgDYA42YQOwoiwM84I9StoZe7tkAI3HaIGPCr9d93lNdukXYRFb7mCC39UxyHY7tiA/s1600/evgeni-evgeniev-710160-unsplash.jpg" /></div>
<br />
When I turned 18, I ended up putting myself in an illusional world and in this world, nothing seemed to be fully my fault. Whenever something went wrong, I had what I considered a "reasonable explanation" for why things resulted in the way that it had. For an example, I ended up failing to work out one day and my reason was that I had too big of meals that day to even consider working out. I told myself that I would end up hyperventilating and puking from the amount of exercise I would do.<br />
<br />
This habit stuck to me for so many years and over time I knew something had to be done about it. <b>What decisions I make today will determine the outcome of my future.</b> The other day, I thought about all the little things I had splurged on. Had I not done that, I would have had enough money to get a week's worth of groceries. Did I need the things that I had purchased? Absolutely not. Did I hold off on it before making the purchase? Yes. Why did I purchase it? Because I couldn't control myself.<br />
<br />
I couldn't let life just pan out for me anymore. I needed to make the change. I needed to do something about it. My skin got better the moment I gave up dairy products. My mind got clearer when I decided to go on more walks. My stress levels decreased when I decided to read more books before bed. My happiness increased little by little when I slowly reintroduced art back into my life. I started opening up and socializing more when I decided to not avoid people. I made all of that happen. It wasn't chance and it wasn't life throwing me positive results.<br />
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And sometimes it's just hard to admit that you're at fault. It's especially more difficult when you're already at the stage of self-loathing and thinking of <i>what-ifs</i>. It's easy to lose sight of who you are when you're always thinking about who you want to be.<br />
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I'm taking it one day at a time. I know I won't be at complete peace and I know most of my decisions will result in temporary bliss. But maybe that's what I need - just enough bliss to know that the feeling I get when things go right to motivate me to experience more of it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-70865561448817220482018-03-31T15:03:00.000-05:002018-04-13T16:36:22.414-05:00The Goat<img border="0" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKeWRDz8kM-fqPwRA3p4JCmqDG4Y3_DiaAVFm3-O9ISFOFaUsczWvPQrpuPpfSbHYgdgrc7SJ0kniwyFRAEmjKk5NuYfx2eb0YznT4PnzBG0nNTPwerDuUbYs0l2APS-7KhtaMUZFAF8/s1600/jc-gellidon-341857-unsplash.jpg" /><a name='more'></a><br />
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<i>Photograph by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/jmI0_8O6lGk?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">JC Gellidon</a></i></center>
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<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
Empathetic versus Sympathetic</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
I always found it to be a catch 22 to be a quiet person. By nature, I am an incredibly quiet individual. It is not that I do not have anything to say, but I tend to listen more than I do speak. This helps me to better adapt myself in situations with certain people because it allows me to understand who they are and where they are coming from. The problem is, people tend to get used to me not speaking that they never get an opportunity to hear me about. It is like this <a href="https://imgflip.com/i/1e06f3" target="_blank">meme</a> when they do ask how I am doing.</center>
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</h4>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
People take advantage of my quiet demeanor.</center>
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I cannot put too much blame on people for not understanding where I am coming from or why I feel the way that I do. It is my fault for not voicing my thoughts out, to begin with. So I guess what I am trying to say is, I want to talk about how I am actually doing. You know, for once.</center>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
I function on two different schedules.</center>
</h3>
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Let us start with my "life" schedule. Since moving to Chicago, I had to adapt to two different schedules. For one, Mac works from 1 AM to 11:30 AM, which means he goes to bed from 5 PM to 1 AM in order to get his full eight hours of sleep. Keeping that in mind, I work Monday through Friday at the office from 7:30 AM until 4 PM. I have a one hour window to be home, to cook for the two of us, and to spend whatever time I have left with him before he goes to bed. Some days, I am forced to work unpaid hours to tend to a client's needs and this ends up going over the time that I need to cook dinner. When do I go to bed? I go to bed at the same time Mac does, which means I am up at 1 AM as well finishing up projects for work or freelancing projects on the side. Imagine forcing your brain to function in a creative state at 1 AM - some days are much harder than others to get the juices flowing.</center>
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So now that we know what my work schedule is like, let me explain my weekends and what they are for. Weekends are for everything that I cannot get done during the weekday. This is where my grocery shopping, errand running, laundry washing and folding, and basement cleaning happens. This is the time where I would get the car washed, go through our bills, check our receipts and catch up on news that I probably missed throughout the week. In actuality, I do not get a weekend off from doing <i>nothing</i>. I do get to squeeze in extra time to check social media, but being able to just do <i>nothing</i> is impossible.</center>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
I don't have to run on Mac's schedule, but I do because I care.</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
Everyone who knows what Mac does for a living usually thinks it is an easy job. But let us be real for a second, no job is ever easy. His job is 100% labor intensive, therefore, he needs to get his full 8 hours of sleep in order to function properly the next morning. While I technically do not have a manual labor job, my job consists of being in front of a monitor for 8 hours a day and talking to people all day. For me, it affects my eyes and ultimately my head and as someone who gets chronic migraines, it can make my day go from 100 to 0, very quickly.</center>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
The sacrifices that come with this lifestyle</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
It is not the schedule I would like to be on, but you do what you have to do to get food on the table. Most of Mac's paychecks go to paying house bills. Most of my paychecks go to loan payments and phone bills. We cannot afford to lose our jobs. We cannot afford to take days off. In both of our industries, we are dispensable. Of course, we are going to put our jobs before our hobbies. Of course, we are going to put our jobs before any other forms of entertainment.</center>
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<br /></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
"I have to juggle A, B, and C, with D and E." I had to explain my life to my boss one day about how I felt when I was told that my problems were nothing in comparison to someone else's. That sort of mentality is not okay to have.</center>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<center style="text-align: left;">
Just because you have it hard does not mean that you should ever discredit someone else's problems because you find yours to be more difficult. </center>
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Everyone is fighting a battle, but not everyone is equipped with the tools necessary to overcome them as quickly as others. It may not seem like I am not going through a hard time, but I am. You have no right to ever put someone else's problems down - ever.</center>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
Life of a goat</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
I became a scapegoat for a lot of things. I find it almost humorous considering my Chinese zodiac is the goat. I am either the goat (greatest of all time) to some people or a walking, breathing, scapegoat to others. At work, people find it easy to blame me for the mistakes because I am the new point of contact to reach out to. With family, people find it easy to blame me for our absence to events because I am the new person in Mac's life. I left California because my own parents blamed me for every single thing they could think of for their inability to keep a family together. I left friendships back in California because people blamed me for their inability to move on from specific events in their lives.</center>
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It is easy to blame someone who does not fight back. It is easy to blame the weak. I will admit it, too. I am weak, but I am weak in the sense that I am just tired. I am mentally and emotionally drained day in and day out, but I give all that I can to do the best that I can. You can see how I am at face value, but if you were to hear the things that I say or see the things that I do in the background, perhaps you will have a different perspective on who I am as a person.</center>
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<br /></center>
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Life has not been easy and it will not be easy for a while. But you know what? I'll be fine. And even when I say it with a gentle smile on my face, know that there are a million things going on in the back of my mind that is trying so hard to pull the corners of my mouth downwards. I am working my hardest to be successful and to pull those who have been supportive up as well.</center>
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So thanks for asking how I am doing. I am doing just <i>fine</i>.</center>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-90666739905264099742018-01-15T04:43:00.003-06:002018-04-13T16:33:50.612-05:00It's okay to feel what you're feeling<img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7795/28497147306_dcecc6cf7b_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<a name='more'></a><img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8823/27912480074_74832268e2_h.jpg" width="800" /> <img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7783/27912490974_332f5efb6c_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<h2>
I needed more "me" time.</h2>
One of the things that I learned to appreciate when I was battling depression was time to myself. Since moving to the Midwest, people would tell me that my past is nothing in comparison to the experiences that they had. The problem with that statement is... everyone is fighting a battle of some sort and to compare them is completely uncalled for and ultimately irrelevant. A battle is a battle and there will always be some sort of sacrifice that has to be made. No battle is more difficult than another. Everyone deals with theirs in different ways, in different circumstances.<br />
<h3>
I learned what worked and what didn't.</h3>
When I was going through a rough patch in my life dealing with a heartache and never ending family matters, I would go to parks or beaches and just let the wind carry my thoughts away. I spent more time organizing my thoughts, evaluating my happiness, and eliminated things or people in my life that did not contribute to my life in a positive way. Was it easy to do this? Absolutely not. It took years to let go of friendships that happened to be around for so long. It took me 20+ years to realize the toxicity of the environment I grew up in and how much it held me back from finding success and inner peace.<br />
<h3>
More self care, more self love.</h3>
It is okay to feel however it is that you feel. Do not let people tell you what is okay and what is not okay to feel. There is such a negative stigma behind depression and how people should deal with it. Some are more vocal about it than others. Some find that venting on their social media account will help them. Some find that dealing it on their own will get better results. Do the things you want to do that you know will make you happy. Try new things if you do not know what makes you happy. At the end of the day, your happiness comes first. <b>Do you because that is all you have - yourself</b>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-77463214494050239862017-04-19T19:21:00.000-05:002018-04-13T16:34:23.833-05:00Love is Beautiful<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoaMMgK_lzH-tZSjEjSwFYbh408RnfASx7hfYTemusdz0180q9gMoAupKXnYj22L-SxDq-lp4FunozKTwWC7D6a4mEQzSc__E13Psr0XwoiykVhLkixwNSnTWIkhh3wJd_uMWokP2LqH4/s1600/17623062_1035175546584627_1928896410_o.jpg" /><a name='more'></a><br />
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We spend a good chunk of our lives doing a little soul searching - hoping to find the answers to all the questions we have about ourselves.<br />
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"Will I ever be content with myself?"</div>
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"Will I ever find love?"</div>
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I spent years trying to love myself for who I am, but always ended up in relationships that made it incredibly difficult to do just that. Fast forward to a time where I am almost 26 years old, I crossed paths with someone who helped me open my eyes to all the answers that I have been so desperate to find.<br />
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Love exists in ways that sometimes the human eye just cannot see. Sometime this year or even the next, I will be entering a life of marriage with someone who has made me feel so wholesome about myself. I can be myself, albeit who I am is still a work in progress, around him and he accepts me for who I am and who I have yet to be. Sometimes that is all that it takes- one person to tell you that everything will be okay and that you are loved to solve all of your life's mysteries.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Legend has it there is always a reason why souls meet. Maybe they found each other for reasons that weren't so different after all. They were two souls searching and found a home lost in each other. When souls find comfort in one another separation is not possible. The reasons they are brought together are no accident. Maybe she needed someone to show her how to live and he needed someone to show him how to love. - N.R. Hart
</blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8714443 -119.1220363 34.5634973 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-66862058289618303662017-03-21T01:52:00.001-05:002018-12-23T10:55:14.946-06:00Spring Vacation (Food Edition): Chicago, IL <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivLCtb-S9Ug7zjaQiz9egCGcyZfqUdBYXvR2SZwfrNDq42EEGI-Ls2PbIhhf5JLLzZyhFAp5G6nZ2UUnZULD9GJUN8B3fbFMMvKQyHH1-hVWSNTY3mlAdVePmw_KPTjkoLKdOYFB5oei8/s1600/2017-03-02+09.50.40+1.jpg" /><a name='more'></a><br />
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As with any trip post, I like to do quick reviews of the places that I have eaten at whether they are chains or not!</div>
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<img alt="2017-03-02 11.42.41 1" height="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhYH-8pdhhgylpPNSvRGmigyuMMJAupMKELSgZmnhkH9fgOP1Ye-0w7roSXZi2BZa2WuTCim6uHphU3EJ_LUXXuZyEzvSb8u77y7AQy3gTimb6iK-1us108wcFZDkJaHCsXrlyEU1uTI/w1251-h938-no/?.jpg" width="1024" />
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<center>
<a href="http://www.chipotle.com/" target="_blank">Chipotle Mexican Grill</a><br />
8488 W Golf Rd<br />
Niles, IL 60714
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I will be completely honest in saying that I have not been to a Chipotle in what I feel like months so when I realized that you had to ask for lemons at the register, I knew something probably changed. This particular location is fantastic if you are the type to like big portions of everything. The employees really packed our bowls and did not skimp on a single one. The parking lot is pretty accommodating and if you still cannot find parking, there is always the huge Walmart lot right behind the establishment.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-02 11.23.12 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9zxDNHVbdzjLmOBnq-EvX6-yzO_8iFBwpr2RaeywZJ5F8KMtyV-IfOEnfgwpYsJb8kyRfTL4F1g-Dq1BFcsoS56ij0mJTJvTng3xq8YPlbgEKwC-k2MIod81c8FBzjwx06ICMIcesGTfyiHs3HMlpYsFcXemx-jH6URRTL8XJ9kQ1OhWRxOZ_Rvu9TxakFAcpW8Yu4OdlEwSo5SLbJMfXch7s-5YeOZEcPvpTjOQLjcLW4IJqPqNmX8PRgpZcd6hB6gjlMoxH_9XiHQlS6lGyzXjoaHhnHYVnVkV6IbID9vjOg7lZZkqqE1U2mGBm5IxZcmvmnxOO_9wOKjQv9ImYz4zWYO0tAsVra5ZkDreheQ5cXpFfAOx_XfbnMkgi9a7xz8_qn8ieoBXMrGt1yfW0i6IHp7sulHGJGK-307t21aBaG0dq1cSuurT8iaO6nnrT27LcF8yHe9s21uPBrYnP1JLiGnHCDQ8ysJvaf9gc1A4EWsg3-Bu-JcUQ8Y6Sk_VFCKXjjiJ8V6KE7hPcEbJ-TVTCon_-UfFvdXzbKVR-Gf3NgioLfONhvXknz4N2KKPtwZ2nTsqvI6Byp9OFfAaD8CD3QBWcBynP-aWzqboAgCcE4BKTILIQgEqWFke_80pGzALVESbRaMpb8wsBiSHpQHZ=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="http://www.subway.com/en-us" target="_blank">Subway</a><br />
7188 Dempster St<br />
Morton Grove, IL 60053
</center>
<br />
Ever get the late night munchies but the last thing you want to do is go somewhere that will make you regret eating what you ate? Luckily this Subway location is open 24/7 so you can drive your pretty self in your jammies and make yourself whatever your heart desires. I scarfed down my sandwich pretty quickly and man did it hit the spot (can I get a woo hoo to all my veggie delite eaters?).<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-03 07.41.57 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k_MmynoRuDOf6QCIYnVNeKMDU-2UZyivzKLPWhViIhNg9Zjv0pFeOJ0svfbUDqR4NJidKtiucRmpO-trIS3Zlg0wB6hOMrib8v8VSeRJykGhQQ6WuaMLAMgf07BV8ALg0XEasLqhsnZhcyFFZ4-Z56ZNFk9PY9xBEaPb9VmJts4zubsPQgFn9hvE1ZiXkSUsP8ymF0euASgSt3NBFsYKGjX2Xw9ELPKPBRcYnHsdTFZmUlYb5FEMd5DX_B2jKXRxNygiaOriXAixefzycaJ2opD5xbAAInhq5h42zqWHyXPNtp6-_ymZvWx9wdEOp1n8zIM1m-aQ6PbA56QIyvI1iMsr7miU1F9jTfM__01K-cXQIBr6DBOmuGudmqcmsf0Vm14wE3dSYUC1xDXRKiOV7BwkkToGUw-nwfvwZL-6KuZT2O-7Gip1PRBlyu1KXfbWOedktzvayTIK6YNJNzJzIGNrryY7RsajFgIqsixBinRh7MtYlzGFAflhgo_3h1Zrm3trLl5iTb-4amCQWHz8woeSTO7YgMH_uFH3GsD1YWgwPcwZ1Ne7ugektMdIC9Tcaacx6GXdW4FE2jvLPfrgUiBjVnBK51eBteXFhvZjDfJ-MERQRfBQ_wddBGGB3-QyxuEf3r09pfzaAjuGqWZOQI0=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
<img alt="2017-03-03 07.41.53 1" height="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4czNjBZZxA_w42ltdliF4PJXWgBYXwJoCI2co4EDZoe8wCLofp1Lh10LMJuLnnE_Z_4Y3C4USoMgQSEE6waucFJiaz3Da3q7jgx36sRiPxVpduok1xpjK0zYQa6OU-1ucoZ9_StZyJSE/w704-h938-no/?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="http://orderkaisushi.com/" target="_blank">Kai Sushi</a><br />
1255 S State St<br />
Chicago, IL 60605
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When it comes to sushi, I know I am quite spoiled by the amount of options I get here in California (specifically Orange County). Sushi restaurants can be a complete hit or miss for the most part and it all depends on the texture of the rice and or the freshness of the ingredients. In this case, Kai Sushi did a stellar job in providing quality ingredients in their rolls. As for the service, I felt somewhat suffocated at times because the waitress kept coming back every few minutes to see if she could take away my plate. As the pickled ginger loving individual that I am, I was somewhat devastated watching her take my plate away without asking if I was done (the sushi was gone, but the ginger was calling my name). What happened if I wanted to keep my plate and use it to eat some of Mac's sushi? Sad times, but the food was great and the tab was not too too bad (still pricey). It was $57 for everything you see in the photo (5 rolls).<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-03 07.41.09 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jWkHnOyyJZRb7Qi-96BRFZRjiETkH556kCqD9tuPGW6D_wmPcsIT-0mell0L0hVcURq_zT5WvlmmhrsnCetQDftzSkNkkZNx8UoWvjHlZMM9DpqKdBIN3HCz3zRRnXH0HW1cG1nycrTVM7j1xvHoapiw0k5MTHnQh3sE83vyh-fZhFyAWMcml_Nu3jugmWfEDO3kkJQ8FZ2yK-n39XoLoZ2ZCx-c5N9L079zimKRiDU9SH7Jtg_RYftG3oTNumxw07QQK4yIaH8LbjBBSSkbcVq2oT9TYOJr_LziCRpYgKf8AnxdDuQkbsCDfR8hjGJ4Tm8Njzay0JP6UJWexfWXjm7nPFdHOPrT-Wci0RHJKz2d-yYbkJLlUBm_FYTmRiB2VJ0oh05KPMTxjGJBSDdxxbtGTk-hJwCCVCxipTe-6Wwn3LRnpjnXE4P4Fp1qP_WePDfkoElK5pxrWbG5IXeXgwrzinZiGxUVXC-P8qXwOVFzk7QIOlPs0xN-G9E19eKa-mGv9kllL8QgD0_5jvWWDLAEUmn-cwAlmY6dIpYuOj-TmXUqpV7wHADmv-w_TaXtzk0XF4zHz5awpGhbpQi9YbbDCXzwW4SUsPQ85RKp1IHedIAAAa0YcvWwU_YHS8yjEOwNSNeNrwnHglkQkMm_zMYO=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="http://www.jollibeeusa.com/" target="_blank">Jollibee</a><br />
3534 W Touhy Ave<br />
Skokie, IL 60076
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Now I have never actually gone to a Jollibee. I have always had it when it was catered, but I have never personally gone to one because the closest one to me in California is a long ways from my house. On our way to Avalanche Bubble Tea (review down below), Mac decided to go through the Jollibee drive-thru to pick up some peach mango pies for the two of us. Let me try to describe to you how amazing these pies are in words: <i>yes</i>. Forget all the things you know about personal pies like the ones they serve to you at McDonald's or your local grocery store. These pies are legit. Please order one when you go to a Jollibee. I promise you will enjoy them (and eat them while they are still warm).<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-03 07.41.08 1" height="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9L51EO0uiCZo-aewMwJellkkl2hDtnf3b1lewnKRAI5kKEEboGfTokbLjVgbdm1AHoXAuW79JxTPMI0Cng1Uis2JgUtb6DYkENX-MHlKBu0X6QZJHSmRPSOJicxr650p2Xc7_qqoDpeo/w704-h938-no/?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
Avalanche Bubble Tea<br />
6317 Dempster St<br />
Morton Grove, IL 60053
</center>
<br />
You cannot end an amazing date night without meeting one of your beau's best friends. Mac took me to Avalanche Bubble Tea where I finally got to try out one of their drinks from their huge selection of drinks and flavors. I will be completely honest in saying that I cannot remember for the life of me what I had ordered... but it probably had something to do with mangos. Either way, it is really good and I can see why this place gets crowded through the evenings with lots of college/high school students working on their assignments and overall the atmosphere of the place feels extremely welcoming. Thanks for the drinks, Arthel!<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-04 12.14.19 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lSZm39M2u6JkVxD9WKmdqJRzaXug5HY_YY7Fek2OyenepbHKpQn8ASEAtOul4uCdiH83PrO0nVMXTaFRLerAtJg_dnOmjS7TZrzrLR6RIfED-MvAQDEhu-Zkxk3pI_159eOfl-IGpsOpO_P5nnFcn5YFWrZ7gAs0NhhI4JU_q1I6rpO3sx8JhTqzuYliA7Ryt5IP7aFYjPO8HF-piPONsv71p7hIDGKjzqblYwitlRZ_hPo0QwE8FtPkm844Eh9kucIPTacngYVkIhhMbXat_9n-KC3CeHwdtcCu5NRyE0fTRocbWAr7D2QfKwP4wH2zPCvqg1hwa5zsUFkIk-_7j7oz2_XRpb4mitV3mjiUWl4vu0VM2L8tuew514cA7XbS6W5wzd7pMp7tw6bMZFFAg3QB-gTL9h7w67P8EiSHzA_2maJj4_0j1Cit2j2VRCFP0Ok8a6Ms_efQnCnubLhLI3OA8V0_XcK-ANRPxiAz9btDyLVLDK6ySyQmA7Z_MBug_8bDBFtHinlVqkYoHLpgVssRXDuIC2vMHzkmBuaLZ1Jnjp4vfhucqJUuuDuO3QnwXF1Kf3eMKJQBthhObgjda1le8252wl4Xc4TODnpsVfx3hPHRdTUNUNPNYch1yRF2-w_VrLQjqfH_8clK-yM0gReW=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/home.html" target="_blank">Panera Bread</a><br />
9400 N Milwaukee Ave<br />
Niles, IL 60714
</center>
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Somewhere along my trip to Chicago, I managed to get myself really sick. I guess it has to do with my Southern California-built immune system because my body just could not hang with the constant changing weather in Chicago. Hail, snow and cold winds later, I needed something in my system that could help me get rid of my stuffy/runny nose and coughs: soup and bread. Mac was just a good sport and ordered my meal for me without having to ask me what I wanted. See, that is the one thing that I love in a person - their ability to have the same food preferences as you. The sandwich was super filling and the soup was as hearty as it should be. Panera still gives you the ol' piece of bread and bag of chips without asking if you want it so you will definitely be stuffed after you have consumed your meal.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-05 11.32.55 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nO-XMRpMh38our8tgNKqKs374qy47YOPdlfZFlPyKmt-ocFf1cirdo0Kaxyuk7ai2hl81X9NXo_DsSwQ-hkD0lN65L2RJBcUnFU57bq6jI-9fwkWS7XVFaReBqjf_3sRZUOg14y25vglusjrPkOxLgu4NFqB0RF23gzZfFcN3dylewoHKgtpVxhSHzJmYWd4pDIdEGE8T1JgADi5K7X-kCZBX8Ey_ImOMgergfHYVoh-I_TJKjaH-633zpdaxzdORuIzD4eb8PQbcbDn1nZGzokIIWHdcUb5cReWzFhJJlTSJxU4fbAEZfdTXk0RrLhdh72Eu_5DRkiiw7XoQleKM5Zllue32ojbhXj8tYHDEpQ4FwcnPOnVYcBI0dVvVzXwm7K_-hweYIjM6sEowZZVqs1es6e5Gm6XpdpwxS63Ax_MYaHLI_erqpXIjNGsgkYCVAWl1ytCCq2wtMgx68Ft9YL30Xqh_Qjy4Rogz8TLiIe8aq-F5sD878EiLIKIgcJoQSGHDswSv6354TK9PksFaCOwD9Xwm1QFgQQw9lzzrlYzUNOw3BIyuRrqZNAdF3msu6kV9iL1MuldkA88kjDOfieDRKE5LI2828nGIF0olTU7XCNWELvywbiAmsaEsyJ78DfoN0ea07mhMYcPLatORUBd=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
<img alt="2017-03-05 11.32.54 2" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9evNx3hxlFknYHaNGRbjBByrBhszfdhSJJ7GimHe0N3YKBHpXMGJ7OcJPItlgFbsoAwjUkQwzqHs12aIAVsBZDT0LJsbUCO1Xq9HKyefKKEV2gPNgLcyWDKGEjntni7ZYO1A7hTfhLiVtwJbRAL_BP_c7Anx4uVQHFVFIOtPJT6kZ8aVJwhBk_QjzbHJDgrL6O8IuEG_ztwH5uYsy5_ELRpoE59dyJ9rCGgoi6TqyNjglJ8tj9tfk01JiXi9sWpmbibgeUIeej-tUzaG9oGNMU5Wx1Mq30neWyDE8p4FTyGJapeUSQ7qIEjQTxM4g_-o0ayz2_QOFqYKigQ4VhaN6H201JiKUQ5AdCJpAUwTzBvV3TovdmFca-4QhoTXZnDNTakB8vWtcaBmBYRBxX37wVseaEe4i3XwJO1atKu9AuW2wWkl4Fru8dCNCB0AL0QE2UqzqoBlNhNY0xLVKXGPNJ1ESMFxSNE9VpLv3S_0m7uabu6JiulFOEVoi6wNd-PWe46wqL-DX56CYnn4VCq1diR15IGPOuwA5UdjSlOoXMv7WRGNzSJbHKQZbXF7EghMZSmi59pdiTdbLPG_tvSsaXjbeyNyuaVqhzu14fLU4PGhcziO08aTbKZ4a7GoufrSZmkv8GmqaBxB5fSuyYpI2OK3=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<a href="https://www.signatureroom.com/" target="_blank">Signature Room at the 95th</a><br />
875 N Michigan Ave<br />
Chicago, IL 60611
</center>
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Nothing screams romantic than having dinner on the 95th floor of a tall building or in this case, the John Hancock Building. Book your reservation in advance and I highly recommend that you call in to verify that your reservation went through if you book it through their website. We almost lost our reservation because they could not find the one that we had placed through their site. Parking is quite pricey ($26-32) and it can be sort of confusing to find as you have to drive to the back of the building and enter from a small alley. Besides the parking issues, getting to the actual restaurant is a breeze. As you walk through the parking garage, there are multiple signs that lead you to the restaurant itself. You will have to take two separate elevators to get to the host's table and then you will queue up for the elevator that will take you to the 95th floor.<br />
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I got the vegetable pot pie for the evening (my cold at this point was still going strong) and Mac went for the half chicken. Overall, I absolutely loved my meal. It is sort of like a deconstructed pot pie so if I wanted more of the flakey pastry, I could just break apart a piece. We also ordered dessert, which I unfortunately did not take a photo of. I would be lying if I said I was not disappointed by the dessert because I kind of was. Mac and I got the blueberry cheese cake, but what it really was was a plain cheesecake and a side of blueberries (<i>lol wut</i>). As with any fancy restaurant, the food is pretty pricey with anything ranging from $26-60. Mac and I's bill came out to being a little under $100 before tip.<br />
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The only small gripe I had about the place was that I wish they gave you an option of where to sit. The plan was to originally be seated next to the window to be able to look out into the city lights, but we were not given an option to sit there despite the number of available tables that were located next to the window. Oh well, maybe next time I will go again and try out their brunch and see if I can get a spot next to the window.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-05 03.49.22 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z_xf0qgE4GkG9m67U17tlTyU7N8SwFifWM_edHeQ5--U7NByk4N7Fn35G3qvY1pqBXqXfXOjRnr_qfushhj9Kvu-IcRvHB6-pxTbPTgNtjBbH16ye66dXHJxDMPWGvLGgyiBIIsKNQ0kmj4orQ7C6wdlUb29xOe4PeW-NuLFBPJSjnnDF4glgw15RH_8L6xgC_0U_UzivgN87-wklFXhYoCYlCvFBHyJ67TCt6U-_Qq4raDFnt-tsQgRwtbis2o4f1g9Thv5LkjHZF-TFDBT9K-ObbmB5VC_JHzNZhSmPuq-_s9vBGH3BWpM4rlsZKMA4AuZW-5qJetA-RhzS99LAa2tFxlL87SWMUJ0Me65pQ2c9t3h9Og2cyIwa2L-0rGg5OQpcbipIn74gLNxIwThFQRt8M87yasnbSsYXgAl07u-pxHaAEW6hAPTYa5MmZXELF1iUyFZz6RfGQR_KqriTQQQyMwP4HaZhCWmt2fXp-8w2nq4Cs6Y7_k-jV-DcblFMVDnBbctQeNl9IOEVaIVPk3Tj9_tqzoYib3DiMXI3HlaO-6drwgZ7MWqbXWZMPD9u1e8P9ZUQOwAGtpp7FKqyUVfZO0krri-cCz0fXk2s4Pg1o5RfhE-MIinmX7ob5_dFdlnlO8FXoYzKV4_AA0PnewQ=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<a href="http://www.chicagowaffles.com/" target="_blank">Chicago Waffles</a><br />
1400 S Michigan Ave<br />
Chicago, IL 60605
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Mac and I have a running joke about waffles because for the longest time prior to my trip to Chicago, I had wanted to get waffles. I mean, do not get me wrong, I love pancakes. There is just something about waffles that you kind of want from time to time, though. Our plans fell through with the original waffle place that Mac had wanted to take me because the wait time ended up being well over two hours so he took me to Chicago Waffles. I got this special of the day that had something to do with a trio (as shown with three large waffles). On each of the waffles was a different type of protein: smoke salmon, pulled pork and roast beef all of which were topped with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce. I enjoyed my meal a lot, but realized really quickly how full I was getting. The service was quick and the food was decently priced. Parking can be a pain in downtown, but we went around 10AM and managed to find parking right in front of the restaurant.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-05 05.54.59 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5b0fNrKcuWbzkjhq1KgtR36KCC752NdJ5gASkVsBC0ltlH3l9SkRlL3vDcAk1lTzav6gX-mn-4fLZq-h7KFkkhLpyvpjDdikLEwOMQgTmc7fQPvBmD89z7_vP-Iz9MQT89LMXowmDq4L6fiWBzvm8BMgXEzbbSXE3MsHUQkUHnHUn5VKj_bhR9K1wdQgLiorsoxWYVERCTT5-LEpBTJRpDL_QrwgHqultWsSHNKABc7N-MzxKBzdpEYHPiOJaEbhaAa5JQkRsOA6oRNaqv9r1iH1TeG-i6bE9YrNHDL61VPZ8q5REPLOEzpw5hrZEhWAxHZwn7EjfAVMPhfOfdf0-Tsa7lWuVGrqtG1MEDs_K2Aq-8VKS_M7FQ9ptAtVMnoWrHgP220V_FMNjak1LR3iVZt4DC-6xSj-3N1zQYoWHoGItwF_i6VWxk8zhHbx8R84Sw2e28_ajKRH2f8DED3E4rWymAgcaIzU6REGKmGiNY1942f_TEkwTX0yHKRhUjkv9RCp0PoU-hNuYbheBW8KabRo1QOR85wVr_oVpk8jAyM78REBKyb_E9oQMrj6PCpEdK2_8J1JGesd2NbUaDqi3VbQ4bb5_73B6bqQI8MMKGNX4Inkmq5uYYvIU7xBojYsCGZT4R6Ku1t-tLgQ2HTyWwO6=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<a href="https://www.dylanscandybar.com/" target="_blank">Dylan’s Candy Bar</a><br />
445 N Michigan Ave<br />
Chicago, IL 60611
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I have never been that big on sweets. If I could describe my taste preferences, I guess I like savory or tangy things more. A couple years back, a friend of mine went to Italy and came back with Belgium chocolates that he had purchased from Dylan's Candy Bar. Unbeknownst to me, I looked up the company and <i>voila</i> there was a location in downtown Chicago. I probably passed by it a handful of times when I visited downtown Chicago, but I never gave it a thought to visit. If you ever want a kick of nostalgia, this is the place for you. They have candy from when I was a child (I am talking candy that you cannot buy anywhere anymore) as well as their own branded stuff. I love their dark chocolate candy bars the most and for $12 for 4 bars, that is not a bad deal at all. If you love cookie dough, however, those were pretty disappointing. I feel bad for Mac. He really had high hopes for them.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-05 09.01.34 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EPce-8eTlVmPLNoDNsZ4grd4GPXZ23I5h0S-kUGs6oUkZ3I0kVal7YTeViydrsinG3-tW7UGRBRevRJHRcyKhwqdFnceLTTobzLOZPXGJ-Hpa_36mrSyTuUUqwVSX3Uvgqbn-P2toAZAOKPkNfflQDnATkKDLkpGRd9RRprGIFTqj8Ntwenc2u-B444iwomQKi42JpF5E37IwwRURF0aIYHD412MPRdsjy5bD27lEi-cP-OGbmMCUhz3p6_1c9YkBkHEUewDhrlYYLRbOyBiB-uaSj-kcKk1ls8_bLiqZ4PoSe3lfaOh8x-3VKbgv94MVeyxU8KNgwYQdOdwM7j_EZBqu35aE7EmFduYLDLqeCrmMbV4I7PrNP27RFmDdWKrhg75-nXm8-E1AgdOgMpvfV3E8-bSb0g7wWb6OJy9IuWQSdC8tIyBOQFffwylS_8PrNxtcSR8ZFOoVrougEIFKJXV_UuaxmZ8jiIP2XxFrhRJdgLNIFu0MPzHCgMDiK9GXJihFAYmY_jLz8OaaIgkJvqRhtrGkSyPu4eInBIcXy2II7mHphIalt2_pOJvpPeVmjIrUDeAsHkGe-rIRLm00twiwPx5XbtBP10VjCqrfXJJjT_Pgqd9Z9WRBNfmWoHD9GQo4qezbDDkpSmPV1CDQeEX=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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Coffee Haus<br />
209 W Golf Rd<br />
Schaumburg, IL 60195
</center>
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Nothing screams date night like a double date to the movies. Arthel and MK kindly joined Mac and I to watch Logan, but not before we all decided to stop by Coffee Haus for some bingsoo and drinks. Because I had a slight cold, I did not want to eat too much of the bingsoo so I got the Kona latte. I kid you not, if there is ever an option to get Kona-anything, just do it. There is something about the nice strong blend of Kona and mocha that goes so damn well together. I have not had a good Kona latte in a long while so I appreciated this one a lot. I cannot say much about the bingsoo since I only took a bite out of it, but it seems like it is a popular choice of dessert amongst their patrons.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-06 02.48.31 1" height="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ02rXIluu012jcgK3g_tkApF-nhHLrJCgBeZoZZCIFO43ZifsVeoKOJyXgKadYdxcne9gfJSefP1mfXB5ddeHEebIuE2lKUoo9lvWNCUoe3mHLf0_FYSQLvlOr5NuIgrDhJ02YzB5fGA/w1251-h938-no/?.jpg" width="1024" />
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<a href="http://www.noodles.com/locations/niles/" target="_blank">Noodles & Company</a><br />
5681 W Touhy Ave<br />
Niles, IL 60714
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How silly is it that I did not know Noodles & Company actually exists here in California? Either way, I have had my share of noodles from this place and always enjoyed it. Yes, I know nothing can ever beat authentic Thai food at an actual Thai restaurant, but when you are on the go and you are ordering with someone who is craving something not Thai-related, this is the place to go. I got my usual pad Thai with tofu and scarfed that thing down so quickly before knocking out from what I think was a combination of food coma and NyQuil. I think the portion sizes are pretty spot on from dining in and take out so this location gets a thumbs up from me.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-07 06.53.50 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xgzlf7RZWA0AOXScsiCjMlls4usONNhLgLglG4rwm6r2eID2L-ORP-4V4m_2NIgMXi67o2KsYAzFGDR8qK1uQY-zoDR794zQDD-TREjuiKsFuBfMOiid3_Bhavy2vCfljJ5-nyJIR8fEa-pYhEcXVmo44vvclaf63J98d5yhPhSNHgVxNXtDbcrjWtfbYi-J84rlEmvifykS8CVOiuFrc3yE-fWIOIlhLRo-qNvktsB3ZMwfSiJjosZiy8BrFGXXoqCc8J3cnropThSKmGRC1x0F2FWDYmrPE4oKK0kPrlllYoPqH97zbUqJxj6ExMB4syZ7s7wGY54WGgiQymPMuuYC1Z2-xF7F8kzygycnqKyGDhCMTIy1cO-k9dY8_cIl6HAysSgFJp6eEhrTdG62au5k4EOhb8x0UbiN8LamyEGsjzvkq2UNU9ZiFOKqjamU_q5nZtH1F9uSFyyyr1eDFgjO5ljRpVlyK_6juQnNW-zjggkya6RTLJnTALZ5ijw2h-6_AhyDJGJPUSG8GH1VuaNb4LNg9iKXHNNxoktHOymUM9seZZwD6DPhwDhKMBcLXdYVDzr9bBbixzQ7BMUlm0HuMF4aONULdfltY-1NZJIuQFe5fBghCTqD5ZfT4HfStwi80zIN7pyT3SKKdNxn4b4k=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
<img alt="2017-03-07 06.53.49 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fhtmEtuDRcX9_Ap0w5Su4QGKYWM2uRIheMJGMgQnIy-SglSvZjP35_t_rFZOFtJfbL37EmNM9xbT4fIp94TPmiLHQRh5xVLw9ZUnrToNRWScBPlOfXqIA6gnqLeY-jsrAU0t319vly0qWJRvfvtUkffq-6jJsEQafUMV0czuk9w_R7tgSJ04N4WkD5AvoqMuMKJsvp2-YG9hROFptzzsp4OrHi8e9YJeB7AqeCaGOBmnthNNPQhqXZ5g0JGNnsSTpaGSeYU_m13_SX1XGFj2S76hXrsJWoTCjBB0AuwNSTVJQ-Ib-NfdDlpXPMzCjMFxrRKDdcEfxyAwJAcPY-bk-o5Mj1KlzqApYkBT9FG-aG2k1GwR2xAD3GPJHmpfAmB_JxvXHUztKR8kAV74cMzPMUyHPG80-jmPHG5fFbHkcXL5mshd8McdUhbr_Lc1MKrmRhiAsIEurTijTNsjlkpt-kqgHYIJ-kUxrLhqAy5Ge0AQW_iWXAvEf86-sBsJLpcmBwQW-lyPiYYB-HzSqgObt64nQdLOW-rTaKDg1wMlQO8tye4hlwKsbAnY7QRSOk5marZlaRN1dIBM4rChbRnK1xI0xeMBNKzB24fMTJIf7RuZZdZ8Mio8h6tgOOKbEe3anc6IiTGpSyqY2Jzcq-x6N_7b=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<a href="http://www.olivegarden.com/locations/il/lincolnwood/lincolnwood-town-center-mall/1291?cmpid=br:og_ag:ie_ch:dry_ca:OGQ2FY16LOCURL_dt:ong_sn:yelp_gt:lincolnwood-il-1291_pl:locurl_rd:1001" target="_blank">Olive Garden</a><br />
3303 W Touhy Ave<br />
Lincolnwood, IL 60712
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Here is another inside joke that I had with Mac (along with the pizza one, but we will get to that in a minute). Not too long ago, I was at Olive Garden with a friend and I joked to Mac about how I was double fisting the garlic bread sticks. Let's be honest... who does not like Olive Garden's bread sticks? Mac graciously took me to Olive Garden where the two of us fought over the three initial bread sticks that were given to us not realizing that they were refillable (whoops). I made my own pasta with whole wheat linguine and marina sauce and enjoyed every bite of it alongside the salad and bread sticks. Thank you to the waitress who served us because you are the MVP for giving us a ton of the Andes mint chocolate candies after we finished our meal.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-07 10.31.09 1" height="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqoz26x6XRXgut04HU6xpBkcQhkBFFGFLgBTBdFjNUJdqEOtrS-NLUEw6M5WtLCh_W0U_TAPyY5xYPN_blUKMR3twvL7JLDYGmOc8VsxYUHAoPD75dCOPSmcuXu-2lYUiEEo0bmO66hA/w704-h938-no/?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="https://www.pizzahut.com/" target="_blank">Pizza Hut</a><br />
7957 Golf Rd<br />
Morton Grove, IL 60053
</center>
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I promise this is the last mention of inside jokes, but this one pretty much tops it off. Along with my cravings of waffles and bread sticks, I had wanted pizza. Yes, I know this has been such a carb-filled craving streak of mine but it is not often that I eat like this so I decided to just indulge for once and cave into my cravings. Mac ordered a large pizza with half of the pizza being topped with pineapple (and yes, I am one of <i>those</i> people who likes pineapples on pizza) and the other half with pepperoni. We ended up watching <i>The Grand Tour</i> and caught up with the episodes that I had yet to watch since last December. The pizza came pretty quickly and I have no complaints to share with how our pizza tasted.<br />
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<img alt="2017-03-08 10.15.10 1" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/31g6fRkJrkgiXn_gMeLOGuQL1UaiFhM7DV91x6X3gkFwvyL1AQgqEo3GPGFHqB854hBdHt9HAv7MbW1Zxcg7ZO2j2EhuUAbN0eCERpuXzy1jH92FRmNYQCqa4p4RdzIi9utROGubqE04bGJX0zFAs2B6sU2_EApmtGuCVffzEPpy5uQSD5om1aUhE6XruarqvUOcbSLQjX_TyzN7GcheqmoZ4bxQMusqdsfqpqS7yj1KJsK-HMe2kXzyfOxrv_ufxq4z08eZqirhoxjCs77kUsAdabLmHKjPHfj10lAuPWmwdUIyMoijTA0J1NOP4CqHF602t9cFnZjuX3vv-zLX7Rh-qzIag0OeOuCTEPzNuo3C6SYyFud9UbALu2pLKeS3Jzz5NRsZ6vTDzt_2t4wXQ7xPlRKA443uj3cxMOS8l_LlSYcDSnLgEAMKhU23dNUFBINsc_iIEDvnsgbcJwB6VkFzr_DlwLfoWxNhsFZZo4zRYBJqkJMNpbBSVPf3UBfZVgd8VVjIW9C7biAjWhusYjmeVBuB3gamm8H-h_raePIQXK-lRJkrzbrtnTmvrkBSBt9xYYjhVw4iCTV4n0IZhGtZHV7p6f9Y7ICXpfnMV2murrPj0JzWgdP7w5UpvVVZop-fdBeXWErMEBHom9HdxiaF=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" />
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<center>
<a href="http://www.eggharborcafe.com/location/glenview-the-glen/" target="_blank">Egg Harbor Café</a><br />
2350 Lehigh Avenue<br />
Glenview, IL 60025
</center>
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The last place that I had my meal at before heading back to California is this cute family-owned restaurant called Egg Harbor. Known for their organic ingredients and farm-fresh eggs, this place is pretty legit on the scale of being health conscious. I got the California Club which was composed of turkey, avocado, bacon, lettuce, Swiss cheese and mayonnaise. It also came with their famous potatoes and a side salad with homemade poppyseed dressing. This was an extremely fantastic meal and Mac loved his meal as well. This is probably my new favorite place to go to in Chicago and can knock out Bavette's quite easily.<br />
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<center>
<a href="http://www.cafeorchid.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Orchid</a><br />
650 N Northwest Hwy<br />
Park Ridge, IL 60068
</center>
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During my trip, I did go to a mediterranean cafe but decided against taking photos of the food because I was more fixated on my meeting with Mac and his older sister. Sometimes, it is nice to get away from our devices and divulge in deep conversations. The food was absolutely delicious and I pretty much finished my plate. Actually, come to think of it, all of us wiped our plates clean! The service was stellar and the portion sizes were massive given the cost of the meals themselves. I highly recommend coming here if you ever crave some mediterranean food!<br />
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Thanks so much for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you'd like to see more of my posts of Chicago, <a href="http://www.ahoymichelle.com/search/label/Chicago?&max-results=20" target="_blank">check out this link here</a>.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-72174985462061496702017-03-17T01:52:00.003-05:002018-12-23T10:51:13.847-06:00Spring Vacation: Chicago, IL (Photo Diary)<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fEvgVUSzqKoIEOUx5upPLd1a-tWLhoAoEqG6NqISquvuicS_AEgqJKlvQ3D2gtuX7rLnTC-yBOCgTfAbO7magkvTHEvTwo5MBoXQUFUKiwbZYmwdhd4pR66yBX6YDZTjyqvPrN5S5Pg/s1600/2017-03-04+02.58.50+1.jpg" /><a name='more'></a><br />
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<img alt="2017-03-04 09.15.31 1" height="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04jbkyDCPaLtfT8y8DlxhFw-tEiWO1s3vCCC2uNokbnTvoWa_bUVfHuzzuncTzv_5YrMnBWyAfclWze3cbUlh5kvk4rdG79SUxnFbCU2guABvys1Sm4fSa0tOws9CyJejT32FrRlSq6Q/w704-h938-no/?.jpg" width="768" /><br />
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<img alt="2017-03-05 11.32.54 1" height="768" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rjgjquea7faguJd2viJI8ZU3l42brr_-HJ9VzDWyWqyqgiXElQyOfhfMthTJ516e6rSvr_F3HjRUZ8Te-NcFUaQ-FQnQOw9TGZQZ9_222QYvlREj8lJQNOhb0Pks-0CQr2Yb3SH0OdE1uVtxFP62c6LiAF3FrUC-xCoUxY_9knqkjW69Knrp2_1AhGPi7AyThJiSSlheSwuNHLlh7Jehu_6sfk9ftJaM0tRFZ2oOjeM2GkVG6espcEKlUoN5v2xtHFTFkoreJZAiQBvyiLiCeTSpwVZeoN6Ma2vYjboIBmHiNJUmFg2hDwlTM79ks-cLeLKuc7mdgJRtNc7tv5wqT-xHHa8lVUacPWCb128ejYnQPtH2gFNre-cRcV4eA8m1SfKx56m2WXHBpu0zGDS1qxdBPEe3M2n6jwx-Hjuat36sT3QhXv4WvsXvfTPsQ0Bjv0GiZ6IylowgOebqrB8kXyAzzbF6M6c1JY-kAhrOpc6JYMnzc0XlP7zDYxJq89RzasBu3SDiZQZZj_FGECPML-f59sp8UBcLUBTDgl3y3KYOUE-2oC1ZlQoU-FlKG3IuBpQIuHPO7w5f33aNyL050e8UwFMOMsiQT_fvW8B9c724NxuUZgcCNEzz8HO_Xywr84X_PNoxbxfeYdnkuW-_dC74=w704-h938-no?.jpg" width="1024" /><br />
<img alt="2017-03-05 03.49.28 2" height="1024" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Heg-eXFW2RqWjF9qlM6LoiEZUlCm8hXFNzyxaimq2zEiSRINJ7053BEE5XG6Ko4CpC4qEXGZGz59ADmQ6MWvyA_EkIANeDNuskV7mMX135uw7e3uPKaAOmbBvEhM_iGjt6n6pEf5PdK-UVcK65MITYRaYwfgTzV4w9xLAETEYS8JiFtHKdz633u-2p_TwGdNTn5a-RHM9QQMyIkmOLk5oJ7tRlc5ANCDL5DtylQu3KsxJKZGsOhdyZz-AcxVNF17YCLLcD8lFNJyrUp-8X8atR81SxigB1PW_Elg-aB32iHL2BCWLmaUAkLR8XLRy-GCAHbsxDoKGOwL4ju57spybLTVzY3TbquvYLH4p7i6EE-KN7oMnMlUvwY4Uzws7ZrNhWvh38msZe_5PjoREAC51_0A27PEg-tZ7bL0cr_kXj1o4Sc2dGoDQWL-hpuqzoS3_3BbtSNWHyupqa5BqHQ16VhAT7ybQ9z5DvyynJdN-NsORvJ7nfe8QY_sowzn1BQMDy0UKjdriQ8VHXXqJEAYhEiB9g4iSBaPutRyg_n1DKxXmhLFSl_mTL1ev81UJCe4zBnQnNb6xEwO32zlxwKHuKGgqWQhJSS-EUYVAoBUFJbtFtl8A1KwfCdAhRH1ELGjFPpiQDjDQOMvgpI_jZE1QkJQ=w1251-h938-no?.jpg" width="768" /><br />
<br />
The greatest gift you could ever give to someone is an opportunity to smile. For the past couple of years, my life has been a whirlwind of ups and downs (more downs than I would have liked). I have always felt like I was in a daze - lost in a series of <i>what ifs</i> and <i>what could have been</i>. I pushed away the good in my life and compromised my happiness for the sake of what I thought was going to make me happy. In the end, it left me brittled with self-defeat and anguish.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But life will never be full of unfortunate events.</blockquote>
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Immediately after a wave of diminishing self-confidence and constant emotional abuse, I found myself enveloped with so much love and support from friends all over the world. One in particular became my best friend and eventually over the course of a couple months, my better half. Seeing my sadness, he sent me on a trip to his current hometown and shared with me a part of his world that I never really got to see. My self-confidence started to bloom and my vision became clearer.<br />
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I no longer cry over the things that I had lost because they were all life lessons - no matter how big of a loss it was to me. I now look forward to what <i>can be</i> and what I know <i>will be</i>. So thank you for being that push that I needed and for giving me all that you had to give me all the reasons to smile. You are the best.<br />
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I also shot a mini montage of my trip to The Field Museum as well as small clips of our trip leaving downtown Chicago. I hope you enjoy!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-15121662914176681432016-09-21T00:06:00.001-05:002016-09-21T00:06:14.790-05:00DIY: Men's Dress Shirt to 2-Piece Ensemble<img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8880/28700413900_82fc6318de_h.jpg" width="800" />
<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8895/28953996496_a1d1e3bdd3_h.jpg" width="800" />
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One of the things that I always like to do is rummage through the men's section of any thrift store. I always seem to find the most interesting t-shirts and in this case, I found a really well made pin striped dress shirt. Like any men's garment, they are too big for me but I grew to like the oversized look on me. For this project, I decided to go for a more tailored look by utilizing most of the dress shirt elements to make a two-piece ensemble. I must say, it got great reviews from friends and I cannot wait to wear it for a fun outdoor event in the future!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8717023 -119.1220363 34.5632393 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-28799977944194897982016-09-14T18:38:00.001-05:002016-09-14T18:39:32.637-05:00Review: Hello Kitty Cafe<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8154/28497143736_178bf50d05_h.jpg" width="800" />
<img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8672/28497139926_62e78293c8_h.jpg" width="800" />
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<img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8244/28245468700_d2397cc538_h.jpg" width="800" />
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<img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8466/28451391211_49d1e6ddec_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/hello-kitty-cafe-irvine-2" target="_blank">Hello Kitty Cafe</a></b></center>
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93 Spectrum Center Dr</center>
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Irvine, CA 92618</center>
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Three months ago, Cindy persuaded me to stand in line for the grand opening of the Hello Kitty Cafe. Hoping to not be waiting in the line for ages, we arrived at the cafe three hours before it opened. Unfortunately, being that it was hot out the three hours were torturous. We also realized that they only serve a customer at a time which resulted in us waiting in additional hour despite being fifteenth in line. The tart that I got was not too bad. I did appreciate the Hello Kitty packaging as well as the baked good decorations, but the food (as expected) was pricey and the wait was definitely not worth standing in line for hours. After spending a good few hours at the mall, we realized that another long line formed that wrapped around itself a good five times. It was a good experience, none of the less, but you can definitely find better desserts elsewhere. If you are a Hello Kitty fan, this place is for you. I am not sure of how long it will be in this location, unfortunately.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-55222355067781623782016-09-08T19:55:00.002-05:002016-09-08T19:55:46.674-05:00Home Decor Inspirations<img src="http://i.imgur.com/z4OlRWn.jpg">
<img src="http://i.imgur.com/xwucata.jpg">
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<a target=_blank href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/shopsale-under-25/37430436.jsp#/">Handpainted Lucerne Pie Dish $25</a>, <a target=_blank href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-room/39471537.jsp#/">Brass Mirror Shelf $38</a>, <a target=_blank href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/F36915072.jsp?color=068&cm_sp=PRODUCT_DETAIL-_-RECOMMENDATIONS-_-F36915072#/">Raised Bloom Measuring Cups $25</a>, and <a target=_blank href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-room/39342142.jsp#/">Lourdes Throw $98</a>
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<img src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/020/0/5363230/il_fullxfull.483982183_n4es.jpg">
<img src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/012/1/6660744/il_fullxfull.465091638_qjea.jpg">
<img src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/126/0/7972092/il_fullxfull.1015976531_rcvb.jpg">
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<a target=_blank href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157881463/free-shipping-reclaimed-wood-bar-stools?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=&ref=sr_gallery_26">Reclaimed Wood Bar Stool $142</a>, <a target=_blank href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/152726128/save-15-this-week-pulley-wall-mount-with?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=&ref=sr_gallery_16">Pulley Wall Light $125</a>, and <a target=_blank href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/292474407/modern-bed-platform-bed-walnut-bed?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=&ref=sc_gallery_6&plkey=857c2542e4ef6943bdd20e7ead9a14d2c9e9cc98:292474407">Platform Bed Frame $1,575</a>
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<img src="http://ab.weimgs.com/weimgs/ab/images/wcm/products/201625/0009/400-thread-count-organic-diamond-stripe-sateen-duvet-cover-2-o.jpg">
<img src="http://ab.weimgs.com/weimgs/ab/images/wcm/products/201623/0002/ladder-shelf-desk-wide-bookshelf-set-o.jpg">
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<a target=_blank href="http://www.westelm.com/products/400-tc-diamond-stripe-sateen-duvet-cover-shams-white-b1987/?pkey=cbedding-collections%7Cwhite-neutral-bedding-collection&&cbedding-collections|white-neutral-bedding-collection">Organic Diamond Stripe Duvet $129</a> and <a target=_blank href="http://www.westelm.com/products/ladder-shelf-desk-set-wide-h1726/?pkey=cbookcases-storage-shelves%7Coffice-storage-bookcases">Ladder Shelf Desk $777</a>
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I have been loving all things home decor as of late and a part of me feels like it stems from the want/need/urgency to move out and find a place to call my own. Here are a few things that I thought were really eye-catching and some I hope to make to save a bit of money for other renovations or future home purchases!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8717023 -119.1220363 34.5632393 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-10223212758637847062016-08-31T16:44:00.000-05:002016-08-31T16:44:22.119-05:00Review: Sharetea<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CA-rEwf4e0rDTEm8mgtr_iWVF3v9XASKgRUYECoDgESnEniKFa4sFX_Hy69dl8rd38_tikW_WdsBut2GtXfKMnW8QLEs-Du8KSaRcMjOox7YTZOswtN-_unH5itd9HOewNYjU-xD0eU/s1600/27271903004_5b492cd762_o.jpg" width="800" /><br />
<img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7382/27271888793_35d5c366b0_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
<img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7434/27782835812_7ebc204130_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/sharetea-santa-ana" target="_blank">Sharetea</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3940 S Bristol Street</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Santa Ana, CA 92704</div>
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Cindy loves her drinks and she especially loves trying out places that serves drinks late into the evening. A day after its grand opening, Cindy and I decided to pay Sharetea a visit at their newest location just minutes before they closed up for the evening. Don't worry, we did call in to ask if it was okay to stop by - we're not that big of jerks. We walked in and were greeted by two lovely employees who helped us better understand their brand's concept.<br />
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When you order a drink you can choose how much ice you want (which is a huge plus since a lot of tea places put way too much ice into your drink, therefore resulting in less of the tea itself) as well as how sweet you want it. Now I don't know about you guys, but any fruity drink is usually pretty sweet so I cannot even imagine anyone who orders one with 100% sweetness.<br />
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I ordered my drink without any additional sweetness and it turned out really good. To keep their concept fairly simple, all the drinks come in one size. Overall, I like this place so I am giving it a solid 4/5.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Costa Mesa, CA, USA33.6411316 -117.918668933.6411316 -117.9186689 33.6411316 -117.9186689tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-76212541571723674592016-08-30T15:22:00.000-05:002016-09-03T02:20:40.065-05:00Summer Wrap-Up ft. Farfetch x will.i.am<img src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8818/29204689461_83d1a8194b_h.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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It almost feels as though summer has flown on by and I could not be happier of all the things that I have been able to cross off my list of things to accomplish throughout this time. On my list were a number of designs that I wanted to make and I cannot begin to express my utmost joy being able to complete most if not all of them. <a target=_blank href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/items.aspx">Farfetch</a>, one of the leading e-commerce retailers offering over 400 fashion boutiques, has invited me to share my top five tracks that sums up my summer 2016 along with my favorite go-to fashion items to commemorate their current collaboration with <a target=_blank href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/editorial/will-i-am-women.aspx?ffref=lnp_cta2_mod5">will.i.am</a> and his release of his stylish wireless bluetooth headphones, <a target=_blank href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/i-am-eps-bluetooth-wireless-headphones-item-11557199.aspx?storeid=9359&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_pic_2_46_">i.am+ EPs</a>.<br><br>
<a target=_blank href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/i-am-eps-bluetooth-wireless-headphones-item-11557199.aspx?storeid=9359&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_pic_2_46_">
<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7467/29312829376_8e9be36323_c.jpg" width="800">
</a><BR><BR>
<img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8507/29297792246_5e8ef22e8d_c.jpg" width="800">
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<div id="video-wrap">
<iframe src="https://embed.spotify.com/?uri=spotify%3Auser%3Arouthann5%3Aplaylist%3A282RkIkBAhgLIUPehOTJlf" width="300" height="320" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true"></iframe></div><h1>// My Top 5 Summer Tracks</h1>Because I spent most of my summer completing my projects, I needed songs that would get me amped to work through the production process. <a target=_blank href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jirPcUxlso">Rihanna’s Higher</a> is a song that is mellow enough to start off my day. <a target=_blank href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aa6daeNxVI">will.i.am’s Boys & Girls</a> is my go-to car song as I blast it with my windows down and soak up California’s summer sun. <a target=_blank href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jx96Twg-Aew">Childish Gambino’s Sober</a> gives me all sorts of beachy vibes. <a target=_blank href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_FCs_2MTOg">Ariana Grande’s Everyday</a> and <a target=_blank href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdIE-G7GRwY">Thinking Bout You</a> is reminiscent of any summer romances and unforgettable evenings of rendezvous.<br><br>
<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8383/29312314096_b983dc2a48_c.jpg" width="800">
<img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8233/28724650243_7514fff74c_c.jpg" width="800">
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Two-piece ensembles are so easy to dress up and dress down because of their versatility in becoming separates. I like to pair my striped looks with neutral accessories such as a wrist watch and simple long dainty necklace with a pair of heels to allow the striped pattern to make a statement for themselves. On the flip-side, I really enjoy comfortable looks as well. I created a laced-up top turned tunic/dress from a graphic tee. I like pairing this with bold accessories and thigh high boots for an easy go-to outfit to run quick errands in or out and about with friends. Because I made these looks, I decided to go ahead and link similar styles that you can pick up from Farfetch below!
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<h1>// Get My Look On Farfetch</h1>
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<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/t-by-alexander-wang-striped-top--item-11554536.aspx?storeid=9352&from=search&ffref=lp_dn_17_2_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8213/28661846154_20b57f4903_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/dsquared2-striped-skirt-item-11266213.aspx?storeid=9684&from=search&ffref=lp_dn_4_7_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8373/29175988862_605544b0c5_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/roberto-cavalli-leopard-pendant-necklace-item-11568709.aspx?storeid=9541&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_dn_16_2_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8219/28663655553_fede5d1785_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/larsson-jennings--lader-watch-item-10923787.aspx?storeid=9298&from=listing&ffref=lp_dn_10_3_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8364/29175988672_5b58540362_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/jimmy-choo--romy-pumps-item-11473911.aspx?storeid=9579&from=listing&ffref=lp_dn_46_74_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8175/28663655673_fafea137eb_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/3-1-phillip-lim-lace-up-shift-dress-item-11321639.aspx?storeid=9724&from=search&ffref=lp_dn_260_1_lst" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8440/28661846404_fa4c1c57b0_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/giorgio-armani-signature-wide-bangle-item-11521157.aspx?storeid=9436&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_dn_64_3_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8514/28663655893_5825810029_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/dolce-gabbana-charm-bracelet-item-11516054.aspx?storeid=9336&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_dn_66_5_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8278/28661846774_a30f18186c_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/eddie-borgo-chain-bracelet-item-11491084.aspx?storeid=9273&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_dn_94_3_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8255/29175988762_17c8e0d5d2_z.jpg"></a>
<a href="http://www.farfetch.com/uk/shopping/women/robert-clergerie--fetel-boots-item-11553628.aspx?storeid=9140&from=listing&rnkdmnly=1&ffref=lp_dn_107_4_" target=_blank>
<img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8380/28661846614_d9eefeb199_z.jpg"></a>
</marquee>
<br><br>
<h1>// What's your summer theme song?</h1>
I'm always on the look out for new songs to listen to so do share them down below in the comments!<br><br>
* This post is in collaboration with Farfetch. I do not make commission off of items that are linked above and was not paid to promote such items. I just wanted to share a bit of my summer with you!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8717023 -119.1220363 34.5632393 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-3088907953506290072016-08-25T19:07:00.000-05:002016-08-25T19:07:44.475-05:00Late Night Thoughts<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRuGV4H3eS0-AfuAT_sZ-elPLV4oQknMr8OUxAff13zMeVkD9iQV4Fh6rQGzu8EYr_N5ZfKJwCjSWStJECBAYosfTgVNaV0Jge_bxX2kx29csn9WGIlVrl2yK0htWMh2s8mfGXMiDpPU/s1600/25616549273_5bd64b2713_o.jpg" width="800" /><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.<br />
- Walt Disney</blockquote>
As you move forward in life, don't forget to thank the ones who have stood by you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-61548556374389587232016-08-24T16:12:00.000-05:002016-08-24T16:12:22.155-05:00Chasing Sunsets<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQu3XPbVymgvUHYRG6ltVf04iVk_V2b51DjEe2tSjQIE9RMs8WevHkrUGCYK9fxdxGWQPPobweMbqP0eg5Tn7QNyv6IArc7BMEkPiz3NF8LoZr2v_H-yS7sjdfTBel1_RS4UBjEgfDgw/s1600/2016-03-11+03.46.40+1.jpg" width="800" /><br />
<img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1480/25572825340_e25b05fd70_b.jpg" width="800" /><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The pale stars were sliding into their places. The whispering of the leaves was almost hushed. All about them it was still and shadowy and sweet. It was that wonderful moment when, for lack of a visible horizon, the not yet darkened world seems infinitely greater—a moment when anything can happen, anything be believed in.<br />
- Olivia Howard Dunbar, <i>The Shell of Sense</i></blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-5888643246420480632016-08-22T23:10:00.000-05:002016-08-22T23:10:47.050-05:00Review: U Jelly Donuts<center>
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwqDgJnJMegVXNzmvFfmgTQ5n2BfNeqH4jQ-NS7GAvLjg0wLlrk7gVa0-7zLKNtsgMRjsZUgBfprDbZsN_8_1DoPz_kllNVbvpKpVByrufyY4taV2BXSfDAx1_TeFsUFiocL00jflo_k/s1600/27807422111_6a03b1afe8_o.jpg" /></center>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/u-jelly-fountain-valley" target="_blank">U Jelly</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
16051 Brookhurst Street</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
</div>
<br />
If you are from the Orange County area and a dessert aficionado, you have probably heard of After's Ice Cream. If you have, then you are probably aware that the owners of After's opened a donut store called U Jelly. Besides donuts, they sell an assorted amount of stuffed croissants with fillings like pizza and philly cheese steak. Because Cindy and I arrived quite late into the evening, they were out of a lot of donut flavors. We did manage to score Reese's Peanut Butter, taro, pandan, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and coconut flan topped donuts. If you are big on sweets, you might like this a lot. Personally, it was too sweet for me (much like After's ice cream) so I will give it a 2/5 for flavor but a 3/5 for interesting choices of toppings.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Fountain Valley, CA 92708, USA33.7091847 -117.9536696999999833.7091847 -117.95366969999998 33.7091847 -117.95366969999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-77693101798769805872016-08-21T21:25:00.000-05:002016-08-21T21:25:34.796-05:00Working Harder<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPu4JOM2d3QT0e7wpcpE2tzYNaN7A46Jt_y2dTTEhgPZ_GZUARoi3VhGoJe1e9rhPL3Czp4Wbu61NYtbKG4eh5pGGnfH8q0yRLOsXM6UXO-WjQhHX-PQ8PflodxOAg4qOkD42PyGfn9s/s1600/Snapchat-9022075926227630380.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Don't ever, ever, believe anyone who tells you that you can just get by, by doing the easiest thing possible. Because there's always somebody behind you who really wants to do what you're doing. And they're going to work harder than you if you're not working hard.<br />
- Maria Bartiromo</blockquote>
I think this quote sums up everything that I am trying to fight for over the past few years.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-83969352703142171452016-08-19T15:00:00.000-05:002016-08-30T23:13:09.330-05:00Review: Tokyo Central<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3yNgYfAn3AyND-EQOvrtssThWviSaw7BCB9nwtn_ptzKgUIbdHAom1j-MDEGv4UwmGVVejDo_z4ck9EYaCueu7Nr4SlRScCA3hLcvhf3d1l-CMSYPny-FLw7JQvgC6P2T4zjLOkVzLs/s1600/25916355272_8b46e5a915_o.jpg" width="800" />
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<br />
I have always been a fan of Mitsuwa Marketplace, but the prices have always been quite steep for me. I now only go there when I want to have some cheap ramen from the food court. Not too far away from Mitsuwa was a marketplace called Murakai, but it has since been closed. In replacement of Murakai is Tokyo Central, my new favorite Japanese marketplace.<br />
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Unlike Mitsuwa, Tokyo Central does not have a designated food court with varying restaurants in it. Instead, it has a buffet (think Whole Foods), a large selection of fresh sushi, and occasionally, they host varying food events where they set up small stalls at the front of the store testing new drinks or food to sell in the store. Aside from that, Tokyo Central sells a variety of items from house ware, fresh produce, seafood and meat, snacks, beauty products and much much more. You can also sign up for their membership card which allows you to earn points towards future discounts.<br />
<br />
Next to Tokyo Central is a Book Off (used books and electronics store) where you can fulfill all of your reading and nostalgic electronic needs. Overall, I absolutely love this marketplace and highly recommend it to anyone looking to try new snacks or to get some Japanese food and goodies!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-41044056499192550362016-08-18T16:16:00.000-05:002016-08-30T23:13:55.552-05:00Art Therapy<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNzvZUc03xUjUZ69_Pefd29bvE0iECAy4_j5UzF8bbJGrWZU-MxRNXba_sRtN9te7WIM4J5ya8aqRJfKtvpgOa7qJIMkBxbn_Tcq-fKa2Bs2rwzgg8vimeOgBJFJMoKaYnwAdmFeQJiJY/s1600/26863377902_4c340fb633_o.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
If you hear a voice within you say 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.<br />
- Vincent Van Gogh</blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-66649598803901842052016-08-15T16:21:00.000-05:002016-08-30T23:13:09.327-05:00Review: Zero Degrees<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljDC5eQfvN86PCfa1XyARlwb00bENGjbQ-GWw3BtxWVK_J2L2liOUPwYR2fNBj-apOfWNHXgm7D54lZtxiNESVpnTdjh7VfcoaH9pUjfddEfVcDBEA9_MLpaWeKBqGgvfL87pwwO296M/s1600/26219227955_0ea99dec7d_o.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/zero-degrees-westminster" target="_blank">Zero Degrees</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9822 Bolsa Ave</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Westminster, CA 92683</div>
<br />
Cindy is quite a foodie herself and she decided to take me to Zero Degrees, a little drinks and dessert place that serves ice cream, sweets and boba drinks. For my first visit, I decided to get some ice cream since it was quite a hot day. I got the potted sundae which is filled with dairy ice, vanilla custard topped with crushed Oreos and gummy worms. For the amount I paid for ($4-6), I think it was alright. The vanilla was good, but I think it I paid for the aesthetic more so than the dessert itself. I am going to have to give my ice cream a 3/5. Cindy got the chamango which is filled with dole whip and mango ice soaked in chamoy and tajin topped with tamarind candy and lime juice. She gave it a 5/5 (but she also loves everything at Zero Degrees, haha). Next time I will definitely try one of their drinks for a more thorough review of their menu!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Westminster, CA, USA33.7513419 -117.9939921000000133.7513419 -117.99399210000001 33.7513419 -117.99399210000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-72558210241144950622016-08-10T14:22:00.001-05:002021-12-15T07:23:30.887-06:00Starting New Hobbies<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxnvu3YkaZDcKPk7N_onAGnGwpWvPpAUxm8ar4McsM7mC0fDpRCBwYunJ37bAn0AzlC5tt_gznxNjBuY5Ukb1rP6y3cxJ8drYQ3a8m6Tcznpm1E0FI14E1UtJmw57QEkYBLbI2QOiM2-M/s1600/IMG_1087.JPG" width="800" /><br />
<img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1590/25752606742_6c847e98fc_b.jpg" width="800" /><br /><br />
I cannot remember the last time that I have painted something realistic and to be honest, I was really afraid to see how it would turn out. I took my time with the BMW M235i painting and it took me a total of four days to complete the painting. After feeling completely thrilled over how the painting turned out, I decided to challenge myself a little further and paint a Lamborghini Huracan. I am glad that I did as it is turning out the way I had hoped it would. I will be sure to post the finished results when I find the perfect neon green paint to complete the supercar. <i>Do you have a new hobby that you have started?</i> If so, do let me know in the comments down below!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-26835459912292943162016-08-09T14:40:00.000-05:002016-08-19T15:08:20.925-05:00Relaxation Hour ft. British PG Tips Tea<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEIJCn5eKiMuALgTeK9UCmLNm8gvjvH-kj6r16uanOKllCQ56eN1BQzB8lL4sczheUPY_g25usYoQbRyr9_BGrb7uuO7RpdBtKZJA86pWSco07z504saH849xKhKDxZWLhsv-6LMpSGEk/s1600/IMG_0664.JPG" width="800" /><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going to fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.<br />
- Eddie Cantor</blockquote>
A quick shoutout to Rhys for sending me some Hobnobs and PG Tips. I think I love British food more than he does, hehe.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8714443 -119.1220363 34.5634973 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-9892383739537430112016-08-08T18:58:00.000-05:002016-08-08T18:58:53.019-05:00Food Adventures<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJxtQmP7Si3iBk8k1diYbHBT3JFW4TXdDm0XyRSQAAR4lu30AIVipUYBdWWOFeB7WWDurXdzbhPrCIcnPnJ3btnESpFmyPI954CDYIaj4B1xHbXN9UG4C1LmIhCwU-KtBi-mD-gC-O3g/s1600/2016-03-21+12.05.54+1.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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I do not know about anyone else, but I have an odd taste palette. I like things spicy or savory. Rarely do I like anything sweet by themselves (minus Easter candy because let us be honest here...who does not buy candy after major holidays like Easter and Halloween?).<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>PG Tips with almond milk and a bowl of rice topped with a fried egg over easy, avocado, green onion and hot sauce</li>
<li>Vietnamese mi lay cay</li>
<li>Euro Caffe vanilla latte and french kiss crepe</li>
<li>Bowl of rice topped with a fried egg, avocado and sriracha</li>
<li>IKEA crepes breakfast with a side salad and orange juice</li>
<li>Poke bowl and Peace tea from Mitsuwa</li>
<li>Day after Easter candy sale haul</li>
<li>Fried rice and BBQ short rib</li>
<li>Eggy toast topped with sriracha </li>
<li>Vietnamese spring rolls with avocado and hoisin/sriracha dipping sauce</li>
<li>Bowl of rice topped with fried egg, avocado, cilantro and sriracha</li>
<li>Homemade baked churros</li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-4311902759339958142016-08-04T18:35:00.000-05:002016-08-04T18:35:06.311-05:00Review: Roasting Water<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_qks4fbozewzSaPQULc-X5B30yPi5ETzs2q9AFuIeQmSaTiKi_h4hkOogqxa7JRiebNouGgCWCGVgwmc6vvnmAXD2K2bfJKlU1PH2pBi-D_ZqjYVQV8GekR6onT9D5HPp_HYOcJVov4/s1600/25942483371_2fe3ae8f18_o.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/roasting-water-fountain-valley-2" target="_blank">Roasting Water</a></b> (Largest with lots of seating)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
11707 Edinger Ave</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fountain Valley, CA 92708</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/roasting-water-garden-grove-7" target="_blank">Roasting Water</a></b> (No actual seating inside)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9783 Chapman Ave</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Garden Grove, CA 92841</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/roasting-water-westminster" target="_blank">Roasting Water</a></b> (Small, very little seating)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7925 Westminster Blvd</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Westminster, CA 92683</div>
<br />
Cindy was a bit down so I decided to take her out on a girl's day out. She wanted to take me to Roasting Water, a boba and tea drinks place, that sells cute mugs and thermos. Roasting Water is an interesting concept as all of their drinks are served in glass bottles topped with a cork lid. Drinks can vary between $4-6 depending on what you order. I love the mango lemonade (comes with mango bits, light ice, lemonade and basil seeds) so that is what I ordered! The mugs and varying thermos are a first come, first served as they do not restock on the different designs. Roasting Water rotates through the designs each season as do the designs on their glass bottles, but their menu stays the same for the most part. Mugs and thermos vary in prices from $10 and above. I love my drink and the glass bottles are great as souvenirs! If you are ever in the area, you should definitely check it out.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000133.7174708 -117.83114280000001 33.7174708 -117.83114280000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-13111245787813570282016-08-02T18:28:00.000-05:002016-08-30T23:13:40.837-05:00Chasing the Sun's Rays<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHSCnGiO_0zVFVnD26BCjYvWRMs_3Tp3CeQYKfMjYca2cyJ3-PGUfEivJGLqa4R-JMiaY5wNdSMQFz8LeCKL3PRWEG2TT9Vgsjj03cyIzWtk_8vF_s-0ZWyJg4iqUvUg2r2J_AErQzZ0/s1600/2016-04-11+06.20.03+1.jpg" width="800" /><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Letting go helps us to to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. It allows others to be responsible for themselves and for us to take our hands off situations that do not belong to us. This frees us from unnecessary stress.<br />
-Melody Beattie</blockquote>
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I had one of those moments where I needed to leave the house even if it was 3 in the morning. Cindy and I decided to hit the gym to destress and make a spontaneous trip to IHOP for some breakfast and chat about life. Sometimes it is nice to unwind and vent to your friends over filling breakfast.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Orange County, CA, USA33.7174708 -117.8311428000000132.8714443 -119.1220363 34.5634973 -116.54024930000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8672930663987171978.post-16017218051205425472016-07-15T22:10:00.001-05:002021-12-15T07:23:11.352-06:00Beach Appreciation<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDrwj53VInAU77XLrbVB4WguCpZX5fst8_zjPJtMO56bZbLHvVoYdHP2v5YQGokDdqXhejcUbypIVM_Q48FzX7zAFAdLuDVuOBIZ0LSc1-Zz_L_VPbQfdqqZIAljsVg9Ur08NeaaL0Lbk/s1600/2016-03-31+11.24.51+1.jpg" width="800" />
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Having lived in Southern California for so long, I have never truly appreciated the fact that I live quite close to the beach - a privilege that most people do not get to experience living away from a body of water. Cindy and I decided that it was a perfect day to go to the beach and unwind from our daily routines.<br />
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We first stopped by Arirang Market to get some Korean snacks as we opted to not eat breakfast so that we can have a picnic at the beach. We grabbed chips, rice snacks, ramen noodles (I brought a thermo of hot water with me along with water to stay hydrated), bimbap and some sides (seaweed, sweet fish cakes, cuttlefish, and onions). Afterwards we went to Paris Baguette to get sandwiches and soft bread as our main entree. I got the imitation crab sandwich (basically sushi in a sandwich) and sweet potato bread. Our food was absolutely filling and delicious and it was such an amazing day to go to the beach.<br />
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Although we had an umbrella to keep ourselves shaded from the sun, we did end up coming home sun burnt. PSA: Always apply sunblock regardless of the weather every 1-2 hours and after you get out of the water. Let the sunblock set on your skin for 15-30 minutes before going out again.<br />
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Have you guys been going out to the beach as of late? Do let me know in the comments down below!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Huntington Beach, CA, USA33.660297 -117.9992265000000233.660297 -117.99922650000002 33.660297 -117.99922650000002