Chicago Restaurant Week

Every year the city holds a week of restaurant deals called Restaurant Week. For an entire week, participating restaurants (usually the more pricey ones) host specials that allow Chicagoans a chance to try something new at a discounted price. My boyfriend and I decided to try out a place named Carnivale; eclectic in food, drinks and atmosphere.

I started the meal with the most amazing coconut mojito. It looked like coconut milk but tasted incredible. The mint leaves really compliment the tropical fruit. I would go back to this restaurant just for the drinks. During the course of the rest meal, I tried their fish tacos, black bean soup (AMAZING), and pork adobo. The pork dish was served with rice, plantain chutney and pea shoots.

Overall the meal was really good. I wasn't in love with the pork dish but it was a nice change to step our of my box and try something new. Although I must say my boyfriend loved the way the pork shoulder was cooked. Other than the drinks, I most enjoyed the circus color atmosphere. It was a fun place and a great location for drinks out or special occasion dinner.

I wish I had pictures. Here's one I found online.

A Look in My iPod

I'm loving this song right now! Happy Thursday, enjoy!

Arts n Spirits

While watching one of my favorite shows recently, The Real Housewives of Orange County, the ladies had an outing at an art studio. They sipped on wine and learned how to paint a pre-selected painting by a professional artist. By the end of the class the ladies finished their own canvas painting to take home. This prompted me to look for something similar here in Chicago.

I found a class in Chicago's North side called Arts n Spirits. I selected the class according to the painting I wanted to create. The full class lasted about three hours and was a fun time. My very first canvas painting turned out surprisingly very similar to the version painted by the instructor. I was so proud of what I had created, I have it displayed in my bathroom. I am planning to do this again soon. Next time I would like to bring a group of people. Those that attended brought their drinks of choice and snacks. How can you not have a good time with drinks and sweets! Check out my work of art. I promise I've never done this before. Or even painted anything for that matter.

You can check them out on Facebook.

Two hours in...

...my finished product

Great Freebies!

I hope everyone had a Happy Valentine's Day! I was so excited and wanted to share my freebies I received from my friend Jennifer (be sure to check out her blog). She makes the most fabulous scarves and jewelry. Peep my new pink scarf. Not only is it my favorite color pink, but it's cute and warm!


Here's the makeup I received including mascara, nail polish blended from a couple different colors, her handmade earrings and some other goodies. I just love the lip gloss. Jennifer also has a giveaway so be sure to visit her site and register!    -Thanks Jennifer!

Big Decision in Women's Healthcare

If you've been exposed to the news this week you have probably heard about the big change for Planned Parenthood; Susan G. Komen has pulled hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding.

I've read speculations that the change is either due to new policies or a new VP that is against abortion therefore against Planned Parenthood. Whatever the cause, this will affect millions of women.

When I was struggling in LA, I didn't have any health insurance and therefore relied on the Planned Parenthood (PPH)clinics for my check ups. These clinics made it possible for me to maintain my health even though I was having a financial hardship. It makes me crazy that people punish PPH for performing abortions and overlook the fact they make it possible for a lot of American women (and men) to take care of their bodies.

The PPH website, www.plannedparenthood.org, lists all the other services besides abortions they provide: gynecological exams, clinical breast exams, comprehensive birth control services, emergency contraception, sexually transmitted infections testing and treatment, HIV testing and counseling, pregnancy testing and options counseling, HPV vaccinations, Hepatitis A & B vaccinations, male and reproductive health exams, vasectomy male permanent sterilization, and ensure non-surgical female permanent sterilization. Regardless of where you stand on abortion, you can't deny they provide a variety of services at reasonable prices. 

And according to the website, "PPH serves three million women every year through its more than 850 affiliate health centers across the country". That's a lot of women that get their physical needs taken care of that otherwise wouldn't be able to.

Despite this huge upset, it gives me satisfaction to see that people and political figures are stepping up with their wallets. The Washington Post reported by Wednesday, PPH received more than $400,000 in donations from 6,000 people. Also donating is New York Mayor, Michael Bloomberg. He is personally matching dollar for dollar, the next $250,000 raised by PPH.

I wish PPH the best! If I had the money I would definitely write a big check. But even with the little I make, I will make sure I look into donating via payroll deduction. Check out what Yahoo! is saying on the topic.




***Update: Looks like the decision was reversed and one of the Executives resigned. Read about it here.

5 Things I'm Loving

I just love this pink nail polish from Hard as Nails. I don't remember where or when I purchased it but I love discovering something new that I already own. Looks great on my hands! 

I am just now discovering this great site! I am currently obsessed with winter boots and Zappos has a great selection. Not to mention free shipping both ways. You gotta love that!

Speaking of boots, I just love these purple suede Sorel boots I bought from Marshall's for just $40! They are the most comfortable pair of boots I currently own.

I recently found my new fav martini lounge here in Chicago called Martini Ranch. I had the most unbelievable peach martini. It was made with peach puree which obviously makes the drink very creamy like and thick. Not bad for happy hour special!

I love these fruit twists! They are one serving of your daily fruit. And the best part is they are naturally strawberry flavored and don't taste healthy or odd. I bought these from target for a few bucks. They also sell them at Costco.  

**Thanks Jennifer J. for the idea

Back from Hiatus

It's been a while since my last post. I am now writing from my new home in Chicago. The past months have been spent moving, getting settled and recovering mentally. The biggest changes for me have been not only moving from the warm Texas heat to the freezing snow, but also spending everyday with my hunny. It has been refreshing once again being in a new, big city that is full of so many new adventures waiting for me to discover.

So in January of this new year, 2012, I will be living life to the fullest. With that comes a few new changes to my blog. I will be beginning a new segment called "City Adventures". I want to not only share my experiences traveling and trying new things, but also create a place where I can document and always remember the great things from my life at this point. You can look forward to being exposed to restaurants, new cities and activities. With that, Happy (belated) New Year!!

Have any great Chicago experiences to share?