Girls Night: Blueberry Banana Bread

Hey Guys!!

What’s popping? Are we all excited about the upcoming weekend?

It’s been ages since my last post regarding Girls Night. I hadn’t been in a while, which was odd as I use to be in attendance each week. Lately, it seemed as though something would always come up that would result in my absence. This would have changed last Thursday (31/08), as I made a promise to Becky (Girls Night coordinator/hostess) at a recent gathering that no matter what, Amelia and I would have been present at girls’ night on that specific day, and that we were!

I am happy that we made the extra effort to hang with such a lovely group of ladies that evening. It was almost like a breath of fresh air. For a minute there it felt as though we had all gotten so caught up in our own lives that we forgot how awesome it felt to unwind and in good company. Seemingly, Becky always has the most amazing ideas. Whether it is a theme or an activity, we were always kept busy. Let’s not forget to mention doing the aforementioned, with a glass of wine in hand *smiles*

Last Thursday was entitled “Baking Night”. We were required to bake blueberry banana bread just for fun. However, before doing so, we all decided to fill our tummies. We had a serving of hot wings from Publix with King Hawaiian rolls, alongside Kashi Margherita pizza. Then it was on to the activity of the night. Becky had us in a conga line, with strict instructions on what to do, and what ingredients were to be added next. The banana bread came out awesome. How do I describe it? Let’s see … It was pretty much your basic banana bread recipe, with an addition of blueberries and it was very delish … to say the least …

I really had fun with these girls. I look forward to seeing them again.

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Food Feature: Keke's Breakfast Cafe

Happy Thursday Everyone!!

The name Keke’s Breakfast Café has been creating a buzz for some time now and of course, hearing about it constantly, made me want to try it. My first attempt at doing so was during the Easter holidays when my sister Renee had visited. However, all efforts to do so had proven futile as the wait time was ridiculous due to lengthy lines. At that time, we had gone to the Mall at Millennia location, but little did I know, I almost cheated myself out of an experience because there was another located right in my “backyard”, Lol! The other was in Waterford Lakes, which is relatively close to home. Having made that discovery, Jason and I decided to give it a whirl last Saturday in the morn for breakfast.

After months of waiting, I finally got to eat there, and most naturally I got excited about it. My smile would soon turn into a frown, because I was not blown away by this experience. Not in the least bit! Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not laying blame on the restaurant itself, as there are varying factors that aided my conclusion. So let’s summate my experience.

Jason and I got there at approximately 10:30am, and sure enough, there were a number of people waiting to be seated. For a moment I thought to myself, “Not Again, SMH!” We got seated about fifteen minutes later, which in all honesty wasn’t bad, and might I add, the hostess that had taken our names was very polite. That of course was a thumb up! Upon entering, the décor was nothing I had expected. I expected more of a café vibe based on the name; however, that was definitely not the case. We got seated to the back of the restaurant, close enough to the kitchen. This for me was all fine and dandy. Surprisingly, I never minded. Our server came right away, introduced himself and handed us our menu.

The menu started out with their waffles. There were a few specialty ones that I wanted to try, but they weren’t served with anything and for that very reason was a bit pricey in my opinion (US$8-US$10). Having gone through the menu in its entirety, I decided to order their combo. I felt it was a better deal when compared to other items on the menu. It would cost me the same US$10, and I’d receive a serving of bacon and eggs. Smart choice! *twirls*. This however, may have been a huge mistake on my part. There was nothing out of the ordinary about my meal; it was pretty basic for lack of a better word. All I can remember thinking to myself was “where’s all the added stuff?! I could do this at home!” Maybe if I had ordered a specialty item of the menu, I would have had a better experience, who knows? I’d probably have some sparkling candles protruding from my pancakes, extra whipped cream, strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries … SOMETHING! Lolol, I crack myself up!

Jason on the other hand, he decided to get a Southwest Omelet (tomato, onion, jalapeno and pepper jack cheese) served with home fries and toast, all for US$9.99. It is my opinion, that this meal too had nothing special about it. It was nothing that we couldn’t have done at home ourselves, and of course I am still trying to figure out what made it a southwest omelet, as I’m not quite sure. All in all, I felt like this was just an okay experience. Where was all the fanciness?! Who knows, maybe my expectations were too high, and when they weren’t met I was left with the feeling of disappointment. I ought to try the one at Mall at Millennia. Just to see if the turnout would be the same. If I do, I’ll be sure to do an updated feature for you guys.

Please don't forget to comment and/or click that like button. Until next time guys, thanks for reading!!

OOTD: Graphic Print

Hey Guys,

OMG!! Guess what guys?! *shouts* It’s hump day, how do my “9 to 5-ers” feel about that?! Lol!

Well enough with the excitement and let’s get to it. It’s yet another Wednesday and here I am with a new OOTD post for you. I wore this outfit to a friend’s baby shower. I apologize for the quality of the below images. I had forgotten my camera at home, and chose to use Jason’s IPhone as an alternative.

Jeans: Wet Seals

Slipper: Bridget Sandals

Top: Kohls

Watch: Michael Kors

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Tadesha's Trip

Hey Guys!!

I know this post is a tad bit late as the day is almost done, but let me still take the time to say, ‘Happy Saturday’ to you all, Lol!

Approximately two weeks ago, my little sister who I love to call ‘My Chicken’, came to visit me for a few days. She resides in Canada so we don’t get to see each other much, and I must say it was a blast having her around. We never did much during her stay, however, I was ecstatic to have her here and she made great company. I had picked her up early afternoon on the Sunday (12/08), and on that same day, we went to see Batman because she hadn't seen it as yet. This would have been my second time. It never mattered though, because I was having fun hanging with my Chicken. Based on our location at the time, the decision was made to go to the Cobb theatre in downtown Orlando, called the Plaza Cinema Cafe. In my opinion, this is the perfect little theatre. I actually love it there! They have the nicest leather seats, a full menu with variations, as well as alcoholic beverages. This to me is outside of your regular popcorn, hotdog or nacho service. Tadesha (my sister) was so excited when we got there. I believe her exact words were “man this theatre is nice!"

We ended up staying in for most days whilst she was here. This despite my asking constantly if there was anything she wanted to do. What gets me is her response which I thought to be the sweetest thing, given that she is not one for mush. She said, "I am doing what I came here to do, spend time you." Aaaaawww. Now if that isn’t heart melting, I don’t know what is. Lol!

Most naturally, as the saying goes ‘all good things, must come to an end’. With that said, we had to do something besides watching Batman in her time of visit. We just had to!! The day before she left, we went to Florida Mall for the opening of the Microsoft store. Tadesha was having the time of her life whilst she played a dance game using the Xbox Kinect in the middle of the mall. I was amazed by her actions because I for one, am a little too uptight to be caught dead doing that. As soon as she was done, we visited the M&M store to feast our eyes on all that was inside. The Cheesecake Factory would have been our final stop for the night. I couldn’t believe it was all coming to an end *sniffs*

We had chosen to dine at the Cheesecake Factory because she said she had never been. As an appetizer, we all indulged in the Crispy Taquitos (Spicy Chicken and Cheese Rolled in Fresh Corn Tortillas and Fried Crisp served with Guacamole, Sour Cream and Salsa.), which was so good. For our main courses, Jason and I had the Bang Chicken and Shrimp (A Spicy Thai Dish with the Flavors of Curry, Peanut, Chile and Coconut. sautéed with Vegetables and served over Steamed White Rice.), whilst Tadesha had decided on the Fettuccini Alfredo (A Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce with Chicken). 

The following day of course, it was time to say goodbye. This for me, as it always is when I have visitors was a sad moment. I really enjoyed having my sister here, and I look forward to her next visit. Until next time Little Chicken, keep in touch!!

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OOTD: Black on Orange

Hey Guys,

Just when I thought the past week was about to end in a bore, I came to the realization that last week Thursday (02/08) was PJ's birthday. In efforts to celebrate the occasion, we all went to the go kart track, as it was something he’d been talking about for some time. It was a fun evening out. I didn't get in on the action though; I just stood in the stands and cheered Jason on.

Below I share with you, images of the outfit I wore. Enjoy!!

Accessories: Forever 21

Leggings: Random Store

Sandals: Bridget Sandals (Cut Away)

Top: TJ Maxx

Watch: Guess

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When You're Here, You're Family

Hi Guys!!

How has your weekend been thus far? I personally can’t believe it’s already over *bawls*

Don’t you just love reconnecting with people from your past?! I don’t know about you, but I know I sure do. On Wednesday off last week I had a chance to hang out with an old friend of mine from high school. I was uber excited because I hadn’t seen Mariysa in what seems to be forever. It was the perfect opportunity for me to see what she had been up to since we had last seen or spoken to each other. Prior to leaving the house, I recall mentioning to Jason that Mariysa was my best friend in English class, Lol! This was somewhat an unofficial title that we had given each other, which stuck with me.

On route to our meeting destination, I wondered if she even remembered all this stuff. Sure enough at dinner, I got the answer to that very question or thought, when she finally mentioned it!! *big sigh of relief* It turns out I was not the only one holding on to this memory from high school. As we sat there in Olive Gardens eating, reminiscing on old times and catching up on that’s which we have encountered in our new lives, it felt like no time had pass between us and we were back in English class once again, talking and sharing secrets whilst preparing for CXC.

All in all, it was great seeing Mariysa once again. I never thought in a million years that I would, and the moment I did, I enjoyed every moment of our get together. From this, I leave with you this thought. ‘Live your life well and treat the people in your life with love, such that when you see them again, you can look back and there will be nothing but fun memories’.

Please don't forget to comment and/or click that like button. Until next time guys, thanks for reading!!

OOTD: I Dream of Military

Hey guys!!!

*shouts* It’s HUMP DAY, and I am back with yet another outfit post.

Now there are days when I feel like being a bit more dressed up than others, even if it’s just to run errands. Of course, I wouldn’t be me if I had not used this opportunity to snap images for my blog. This I’ve now come to the conclusion, has become my favourite pastime. Then again, this comes second to my constant nagging obsession over my Instagram account (@tianshanae) *blushes*.

I hope you enjoy the pics!

Leggings: Random Store

Sandals: Bridget Sandals (cut away)

Vest: Banana Republic

Watch & Bag: Michael Kors

Please don't forget to comment and/or click that like button. Until next time guys, thanks for reading!!

Food Feature: Brio Tuscan Grille

Hey Guys!!!

What’s on and popping? I know, I know, it’s been awhile, *hangs head in shame* however, I’m here with a great post for you today. What better way to start the week than with a food feature?! Yum!! *grins*

Sometime ago, Amelia decided to treat me to lunch being that we had planned on visiting the ‘Mall at Millenia’ and would have been there for some time. After much debating over where to go, the decision was made to try ‘Brio Tuscan Grille’ which we both have never been before. As taken from their website, Brio invites you to gather with friends, family and co-workers to experience the flavours of Tuscany without leaving the country. Bringing the pleasures of the Tuscan country villa to Orlando, their chef-inspired Tuscan recipes are sure to tempt your palate. How tempting does all that sound?! I was extremely delighted to partake in their dining.

After looking through their menu, I decided to get the Grilled Chicken Club. This mouth-watering and savoury sandwich comprised of applewood bacon, lettuce, tomato, provolone, roasted tomato mayonnaise, and was served with house made chips for a total cost of US$11.85. I must say that this was THE BEST grilled chicken club I’ve ever had, and I say that with absolutely no reservations. It was amazing!! It tasted soooooo good ... I hardly believe there are enough words to explain, and even if there were, they would do it no justice, Lol! Amelia on the other hand, had a Margherita Flatbread containing fresh mozzarella,vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil. This was US$12.15.

The service was top notch and I totally plan to visit again. I fully intend to find something else to fall in love with on their menu.

Please don't forget to comment and/or click that like button. Until next time guys, thanks for reading!!