Mutli-rave post

It's bee a while, and there are so many things I've experienced and I'm loving taking advantage of on a regular basis.

So, instead of focusing on just one rave, I'm going to talk about a few things that I'm loving at the moment.

"These are a few of my favorite things"

And now that that song is stuck in your head, let's plunge ahead. These are in no particular order other than how much atop my mind they are at the moment.

Yoga Toes - I've had these for a couple months now and though they're some of the strangest looking things, they're amazing.

At first, I could only wear them for about 10 minutes before my feet were begging me to take them off. But over time, I've come to crave them, especially after a run or a long day at work. They claim to be the cure for bunions but I just love how they make my feet feel. These came recommended to me by my cousin who wears them religiously, she even walks around the house in them, but I still find this a bit painful...they're definitely not made for walking, but lounging while reading or watching TV or even to wear to bed, they're fabulous!

Total Freedom - if you're looking for a good book that will give you a completely different outlook on life and self-improvement without being all self-helpy, this book is it. I'm not going to lie, it's not a quick read. But it's worth every minute spent with your nose stuck in it. It's one of those books that, once you get into it, you find yourself having a hard time pulling yourself away. A book like this is too good not to share with others. A must read.

Nutella - my new peanut butter substitute when I'm just not feeling the crunchy, peanutty spread. If you haven't tried it before, I highly recommend it. I'm a big fan of Nutella on my morning banana or on an apple in the afternoon. Punches up your favorite treats a bit. YUM!

Delta Airlines Wi-Fi - what would I do without in-flight wi-fi? Well, probably sleep or read or listen to music and just unwind. But, on those days where I need to get a client report out the door or I'm waiting for a response to keep a project moving, or even when I just want to write a blog post, it's critical. Sure, there's a bit of a charge, which you can buy by flight, 24-hour period or have a monthly fee for unlimited access for all you frequent fliers out there, but it's totally worth it!

MacBook Air - Apple got it right with this one, beyond right! I was issued an Air for my new position (oh yeah, did I mention I got a new job and I'm loving EVERY SECOND OF IT?) and I gotta tell you, it's amazing. As someone who has found herself traveling more than normal, I don't dread slinging my messenger bag over my shoulder for that long trek across the airport anymore, I can hardly tell I've even got a computer in there. And with the abundance of wi-fi connections, well, everywhere these days, there's no lack of internet connectivity. I'm going to love having this powerful little (and I do mean little) beast.

That's all for now.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Popeyes Chicken, Calumet City

My husband loves Popeyes Chicken. Until we started dating, I'd never ventured to one.

I had a friend in high school who worked at the local KFC and told me stories about their food handling processes that made my skin crawl. So I spent most of my life avoiding fast food fried chicken.

But a few months back, I gave the place a shot, and really wasn't all that impressed. The service was beyond slow and the food was just okay. They did have really good cole slaw and mashed potatoes and gravy though, I give them that.

I've eaten there a couple times since then and continued to be less than impressed, especially with the slow service. I thought maybe it was because it was "Louisiana style" or something that they were just slower, but after visiting one of the stores outside of Chicago, I know this isn't true.

On the way to visiting my family for funeral services, we decided to stop and get a bite to eat. When we saw a sign for Popeyes his eyes lit up, so we stopped. We went inside to take a break from driving through traffic and the first thing I noticed was the incredible speed of the people behind the counter.

The man who took our order was yelling back into the kitchen as he took pieces of chicken, so they knew what to replace (normally, we see them yelling what they need AS they need it). Needless to say, I was impressed.

We asked the man if he was the manager there and he said, "why yes I am," and we complimented him on the efficiency of the store. He mentioned that they were short staffed even, but it didn't show. We got our food quicker than ever at a Popeyes. The food was fresh and just as we'd ordered it - another issue we've had in the past, not getting spicy when we order it.

After we ordered we sat down to eat and people watched. The manager was very patient with customers who would come in on their cell phones and talk while ordering, or taking forever to make a decision while holding up the line, and even customers asking tons of questions that are answered right on the menu. He certainly was more patient that I would have been :).

So I gotta say, if you're ever headed out of Chicago on 94 and have a craving for Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits, be sure to take the Calumet City exit and visit the store on Sibley Road. You're bound to be satisfied with food and the service.

Cheers!

Ashley

RAVE: Uncle Bub's

In keeping with one of my 2011 resolutions (see Write more), I'm doing just that. So that means that on occasion you'll get two posts in one day.

Deal with it.

I wanted to start this year out on a high note with the review portion of this blog, by talking about an incredible BBQ restaurant just up the road from my place in Chicago.

It's touted as Chicagoland's Best Award Winning BBQ and let me tell you what, it lives up to that.

Now, if you've been reading long, you're probably thinking, "but Ashley, aren't you a vegetarian?'

True, I used to be a full veg, but things change and I've come to find that meat can be your friend in small doses. Plus, it's yummy!

Anyhow, so in trying out new, local restaurants, my fiance and I stumbled into Uncle Bub's in Westmont one afternoon.

We decided, since this was our first time, that we'd pop that cherry by splitting the sampler platter, which has three ounces of each of their meats (though, I really think there was more than 3 oz of each....they really loaded it up). You also get corn bread and two sides - this was more than enough for us. In fact, we ended up taking some home!

I was a huge fan of the brisket, while my partner in crime was loving the ribs. He also loved the friend mac & cheese while my favorite sides were by far the mashed potatoes and gravy and cole slaw.

One of the cool things about this place is that they have a wall of sauces you can pick from and take back to your table. We indulged in a few hot sauces and a couple different BBQ sauces aside from what was on the table. On top of that, they have homemade pickles and pickled veggies as well.

I think what I liked most about this place though was the service. Everyone was so nice! They were slow as we showed our faces at 3:30 in the afternoon, but that gave us time to check everything out and mingle with the staff. It had a very Midwestern flare for a BBQ joint.

This would be a great place for one of those Food Network shows like Man vs. Food or Diners, Drive ins and Dives. I guess the latter had to finally contact Uncle Bub's and request that their patrons stop sending email requests to the show because their inbox fills up. Well, hello Guy, maybe that's your clue to come to Westmont, eh?

I would highly recommend this place to anyone in the Chicago area or traveling out to the burbs. It's worth the drive!

Price: $$ (big portions at a reasonable price)

Menu Selection: *** (not sure what is standard for BBQ places)

Taste: **** (yummy!)

Service: ***** (so nice and welcoming, and prompt with the order)

Atmosphere: **** (laid back, friendly)

Cheers!

-A

Reverb 10 - Catch up 24-27

Time for a little catch up on the Reverb10 Challenge this morning. Oh c'mon now, you didn't really expect me to be blogging from the middle of nowhere Michigan while I was visiting my family for the holidays, did you?

Oh. You did. Well, too bad.

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Day 24

December 24 Prompt – Everything’s OK

What was the best moment that could serve as proof that everything is going to be alright? And how will you incorporate that discovery into the year ahead?

I think for me that moment was the one where I first met with my new supervisor after moving to Chicago. This was the moment where I sat back and said to myself, "hey, I can have what I want in my career."

For so long I've felt as if I've been trapped in a position, going no where aside from being this tool for my "team" to use however they please. No one seemed to care about what I wanted, where I saw my career going. So I pushed my way into an account that I love, and now into an office that I love.

Moving here was proof to me that everything was going to be alright.

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Day 25

December 25 – Photo – a present to yourself

Sift through all the photos of you from the past year. Choose one that best captures you; either who you are, or who you strive to be. Find the shot of you that is worth a thousand words. Share the image, who shot it, where, and what it best reveals about you.

I'm definitely going to have to go with this photo.

It was taken at the Jump for Diabetes, a fundraiser that my fiance and I put together last year to raise funds for diabetes research. Nearly $10,000 went to the ADA from this one-weekend event.

The photo was taken by my friend Matt, who came to Pennsylvania (where the event was held) from Michigan to support the cause. There were a number of people who traveled long distances for this. Heart warming.

I'd say this best describes my year for a number of reasons:

• Skydiving
• Charity (helping others is definitely something I want to do more)
• Me and my boyfriend (who got engaged this year)
• Spending time with friends (also a priority, as you've noticed)

So, yeah, it should speak for itself, but I helped a little.

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Day 26

December 26 – Soul Food

What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth & touched your soul?

This is difficult. I've had a lot of really great food this year. Between travel and moving to Chicago there have been a lot of amazing places to eat.

Though what currently stands out in my mind is the food we had at our office Christmas party. It was just appetizers, but these mini ranch burgers were to die for. So was the tomato bisque with mini grilled cheese.

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Day 27

December 27 – Ordinary Joy

Our most profound joy is often experienced during ordinary moments. What was one of your most joyful ordinary moments this year?

I think I'd have to say the day I got my hair done here in Chicago for the first time. Why? Because in the process I was able to reconnect with a friend from high school.

It was so great to know that I had people here in the area who I grew up with. But of course, this is stuff you've already heard about, so I'll spare you the repeat details :).

Cheers!

-A

New life: Love

Have I mentioned lately how much I love my life here in Chicago yet? Just thought you'd like to know.

Contrary to the tone of my last post, I love just about everything life has to offer me here.

• I love my apartment complex and the access to racquetball and a gym to help blow off steam.
• I love taking the train to work, having a chance to relax on my commute rather than sit in traffic. It gives me a chance to read and get absorbed into my music.
• I love finally being in the same city with (some) people on my account teams. It makes all the difference in the world seeing people face to face.
• I love the opportunities I have to build the life I want here...opportunities that either didn't exist in Cleveland, or ones that I was being held back from, for one reason or another.
• I absolutely LOVE that I have friends in this city already. Skydiving friends, friends from college and high school that I've already reconnected with. I love having solid friendships in my back yard.
• I love the availability of yummy foods on every corner. Between the Italian Delis and readily-available sushi, I'm in heaven. Though I still have to try out some of these cupcakes I've heard so much about.
• I love the shopping. The outlet malls. Even though I'm not much of a shopper, it's so great to have options should I need them.
• I love being back in the Midwest where people are, in general, friendly and not as closed off as they are in Cleveland. I've yet to hear anyone say or act as if they have enough friends.
• I love that for the most part I've been able to quickly fall into a routine. It gives me structure during the week, something I constantly craved throughout my inability to settle in when I lived in NE Ohio.
• I love that people here care about hockey and basketball just as much as football. These are sports I missed watching with people who get it. Texas and Ohio were very much football states.
• In that same breath, I love that I'm out of Buckeye country...not so much that there aren't Buckeyes around, but because there are Spartans around too. There's a special connection among us Spartans.
• I love the abundance of photography opportunities. I can't wait to do some more exploring.

Those are just the off-the-top-of-my-head things. I've never been more excited about building a life in any of the cities I've lived in before. I've never felt more at home than I do here. I love my new life here. Just thought I'd share.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: York Peppermint Wafer Bar

Here's a little trivia for you: I grew up in the Mint Capitol of the world.

True story.

I was surrounded by mint farms as a kid. Kinda nifty right?

What's ironic about that is I don't like mint.

Wait - I totally just lied to you. I do like mint, I just don't like mint candy that much. Those hard peppermint things are just nasty, and I've never been much for candy canes - unless they are strawberry flavored, yum!

But I do like York Peppermint Patties from Hershey's. I think it's more about the dark chocolate than the mint, but the minis are a refreshing little treat when you need something sweet but aren't hungry for a full on snack.

Well yesterday, while the BF and I were shopping at a local overstock store, I came across something new.

York Peppermint Wafer Bars. They came in a big bag of 100 calorie packs - which include two chocolate covered wafers with a mint stripe in the middle.

HEAVEN!

I like that there are two - so you can spread out the enjoyment.

And let me tell you, these things are damn good for 100 calories.

Apparently they make Reese's wafer bars too...I'll have to find these! I'm not sure where else you can buy these lovely treats, but I highly recommend seeking them out for your after lunch sweets fix!

Cheers!

-A

Date night

When it comes to planning date nights, guys, y'all got it easy.

I mean really, flowers, candles, her favorite restaurant or a home cooked dinner, music (and dancing if she's into that sort of thing), end the night with coffee and a walk (if the weather permits) and you're guaranteed to end the night with some heaving breathing.

Hell, a combination of any of the above two shows that you're putting in effort - that's really all most girls ask every now and again.

But what is it that you dudes want on a "romantic evening." This is something I just went through planning, and let me tell you, it wasn't easy. And though I think I've come up with a great evening that my man will enjoy based on his unique interests, I may have exhausted my ideas for future use in this one evening.

So tell me my male readers - what do you like in an evening with your girl?

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Starburst FaveReds

Ever since I was a kid I've been a huge fan of Starbust fruit chews. As the name indicates, these little candy bites are bursting with yummy sweetness.

For years I have been saying that Starbust should make a package of purely pink and red flavors (strawberry and cherry) as they are by far the superior flavors.

Well apparently others have been thinking this same thing because recently I came across a package of what Starburst is calling "FaveReds." When I first saw this I jumped for joy - most literally, clapping my hands and the whole bit. Because really, how great is it that I don't have to waste the orange ones anymore.

Though I was initially under the impression that the package contained only the red and pink varieties, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I enjoy the fruit punch and watermelon flavors just as much.

So naturally, this has become my latest candy obsession - picking up a pack every place I see one. In fact, I started my day with two delicious candies this morning on my drive in to work that I forgot were in my car (they were slightly hardened due to the cold, but the flavor remained).

It's a wonder how I don't have a mouth full of cavities.

Next time you're in the mood for a sweet candy treat, I highly recommend the new FaveReds from Starburst. Yummy!

A healthy start

All you resolutioners out there who have vowed to live a healthier 2010 would be proud of my efforts thus far.

The year started out not so great, eating pizza and Oreos on a regular basis, but after reading a few excerpts from this book I decided to get my act together.

I'm not one for gimmicky fad diets, they never work, but I like to read stuff like this and take bits and pieces and adapt them to my life to find what works best to keep me healthy - rather than "the quickest way to lose 10 lbs."

One of the things that the O2 diet mentions is putting lemon in your water for increased antioxidants. Since one of my goals is to drink more water, this has actually helped. I also brought in a fun glass from home that sits on my desk, taunting me to drink from it.

Not sure the glass actually helps, but I have been drinking significantly more agua than the previous couple weeks!

I've also added in foods I never thought of because of this book - like figs. And seriously, I can't believe I lived my life without them before. So scrumptious! Just add a couple dried figs to a pseudo-trail mix of heart-healthy nuts and dried fruit like cherries, cranberries and raisins and a handful of dark chocolate chips and you've got yourself a perfect treat.

In fact, I forgot this little concoction at home today and I'm bummin'.

I also decided to join a gym. Yep, the one that I ranted about a couple weeks back.

I know, I know...but one thing I pride myself on is giving people/companies a second chance. When I approached my contact there, he was friendly and accommodating. Needless to say, we worked something out and I am now a member.

So last night was my first workout experience. Compared to other health clubs I've visited, this one isn't nearly as crowded...huge bonus.

I hate people, after all - especially sweaty strangers.

I kid, I kid...kinda.

Last night was also my first yoga class at the gym. Surprisingly, it was exactly what I'd hoped it would be. A little loud for yoga, but it was power yoga at it's finest.

Sure, it's not a studio where you have a tailored class for your goals, a room heated to 85 degrees or peace and serenity, but it's also not costing me $13 a class. It gets the job done!

Needless to say, today I have a lovely soreness about me and I'm finding that my energy levels are up. I've even got ambition to head home after work today and tackle the chores that await. Laundry here I come!

So tell me dear readers, how are y'all doing on your resolutions?

Cheers!

-A

p.s., if you're interested in the skydiving world, be sure to head over to my other blog, Skydive Chick, to read and interview from THE skydiving photographer, Norman Kent. You won't be disappointed with this one.

RAVE: Diet Dr. Pepper

Before I get into today's Rave, I'd like to point out that yes, I'm aware that I haven't had any Rants lately here in the blogosphere, mostly that has to do with the fact that I haven't been overly displeased with anything as of late.

Until I have a true reason to bitch and moan about a company, product, or service, I'm going to continue raving about those people, places, and things that bring a smile to my face. After all, there's no reason to complain, just for the sake of hearing my own voice.

Let's get on with the show, shall we?

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For as long as I can remember, Dr. Pepper has been one of my favorite sodas. Growing up, my father wasn't supposed to drink dark colas (read: Coke or Pepsi for those who may not be aware) because they're not so gentle on your stomach.

To break the monotony of drinking only Sprite or ginger ale, my dad turned to Dr. Pepper, since it's not technically a "cola."

From a young age I was hooked. But then I gave up all soda for about 5 years of my existence - that is, until I moved to Texas, where I noticed that Dr. Pepper is in ALL the fountain machines.

Not only that, they actually have DIET Dr. Pepper in the fountain machines. Yummy.

As a girl who doesn't like to drink empty calories, this appealed to me very much. And yes, Diet Dr. Pepper does taste like regular Dr. Pepper. I even find it to be a little more refreshing.

Now the other day, the BF and I were walking through the store and came upon Diet Dr. Pepper Cherry. I immediately thought, "there's no way this can be good. The soda already has so many different flavors in it." But we walked out with a 2-liter, prepared to give it a whirl.

To my surprise, this drink was fantastic! In fact, we went and bought a 12-pack of cans last night, and I'm currently enjoying one of those cans as I type this.

It's incredibly smooth with a distinct cherry flavor that's not overpowering by any means.

There's not much more I can say about it other than you MUST try this one yourself. I've also seen that they have a Chocolate Covered Cherry flavor as well. I may have to get around to trying that one out in the future.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Dave's Cosmic Subs

It appears as of late that I've been doing most of my reviews on the food and beverage industry. What can I say, I'm a girl who likes to eat!

Well today's review isn't going to be much different thanks to my current obsession: Dave's Cosmic Subs.

This NE Ohio-based sub shop blows Subway, Jersey Giant, and all the other sub chains away.

When I first moved to Cleveland almost 3 years ago (holy crap, hard to believe I've been here that long), I noticed Dave's as it sat on the Detroit Rd. "strip" in Lakewood. It was one of those places that I asked friends about, some swore by it, others said it was bland.

So, given that I'm not a huge sub person anyway, I decided to spend that $5 elsewhere.

And then came the day I was introduced to Dave's. My boyfriend and I were out in Mentor, heading to Pennsylvania to skydive, and decided to grab sandwiches on the way out to the dropzone.

At first, I wasn't thrilled with the sub, but in my defense, a friend of mine had passed the night before and my appetite just wasn't up to it's usual standards.

But the customer service experience was good, so I was willing to go back when the boy recommended it a couple weeks later.

To my surprise, I fell in LOVE with these subs!

As a vegetarian, I have multiple menu options to choose from, all of which include the incredible and addicting Dave's sauce. Mmmm...I can't even explain how yummy it is!

The bread is always fresh and they're totally cool with swapping out wheat bread upon request.

All that combined with the fresh veggies and cool, laid back atmosphere, it makes for a great dining experience.

As a west sider, I'm still very partial to the Dave's in Mentor where I've come to know one of the owners, Anthony, and his crew. He always remembers what the bf and I are going to get when we come in - even my substitution with no artichoke hearts on the #12.

(Some of the guys from the Mentor Store. Photo from Facebook Fan Page.)

It's this type of neighborhood feel that keeps me coming back to Dave's in Mentor.

Occasionally I'll hit up the Lakewood location out of convenience to my place - and to get my fix when I'm not on the bf's side of town - but it's not nearly as chill, friendly and laid back as the Mentor location that I have come to love.

Here's an overview:

Price: $$ (Right on par with other sub shops)

Menu Selection: **** (even for a vegetarian there are plenty of options)

Taste: ***** (not a single complain on the freshness and taste)

Service: **** (especially at the Mentor store)

Atmosphere: **** (chill!!)

If you're in the NE Ohio area, I can't recommend Dave's enough. It's quick, it's fresh, and it's freaking delicious.

In fact, I might just be getting some tonight.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Danny Boys

For the past year one of my favorite West side (Cleveland) restaurants has been Danny Boy's in Rocky River.

With it's cozy atmosphere and Frank Sinatra theme, it sits quietly along Lake Ave., awaiting locals and regulars who enjoy the expansive menu.

Between the incredible pizza, unique sandwiches and to-die-for bread that accompanies every salad, Danny Boys has some of the best comfort food I've experienced in Cleveland.

Personally, I'm a huge fan of their pizza. The cheese and sauce combination they use is mouth watering and the crust is quite tasty. But I've yet to be dissatisfied by any of their dinners. If you're hungry, I recommend a pasta dish - a gigantic portion that comes with salad and yummy bread. Those dinners usually end up stretching well into meals for the next week.

The atmosphere is very chill. Upon walking in you can immediately tell it's a family-run operation. There are tables with chess and checker boards where you can play while you wait to be seated. The waitstaff wear shirts with quirky slogans and the sandwiches are named for famous people and mobsters.

And let me tell you what, the price is right! A dinner for two is always under $30 bucks.

If you're in and around the near West side, or want to make a trip for some fantastic grub, I highly recommend Danny Boys. It's definitely worth it!

Price: $$ (beyond reasonable for the portion size)

Menu Selection: **** (when I'm not getting pizza it takes me forever to decide!)

Taste: **** (yummy!)

Service: *** (sometimes it's a little slow, but my soda is almost always full!)

Atmosphere: **** (chill)

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix

It seems that food manufacturers have been listening to my cravings as of late: anything with the chocolate/peanut butter combination.

What's better than these two sweet treats together?

How about a little added salt?

As I was perusing the convenience shop for some something chocolate, these chocolate peanut butter Chex caught my eye. Naturally, I had to purchase them.

Let me just say, the bag didn't last long. And no, I didn't share.

Chex Mix has always been one of my favorite snacks. It's healthier than chips and has a great crunch - I'm all about texture. I've been known to stock up on all sorts of flavors of Chex Mix when it's on sale. Yummy!

This Chex variety had the consistency of puppy chow (you know, that chocolatey, powdered sugar mix you used to take in for 1st grade snack time), and the peanuts had a nice little glaze on them.

My only beef is that the pretzels were not chocolate coated. But if you ate them in a handful with the Chex pieces, it was the perfect combination of sweet and salty.

Next time you're looking for a treat, and your sweet tooth is battling your salt craving, check out this little treat.

You won't be disappointed.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Parallax

Photos courtsey of Kyleroth's Flickr Photostream.

When I first moved to Cleveland from Dallas almost three years ago I was worried about finding a decent restaurant to quench my regular sushi cravings. This was, of course, before I realized just how many great restaurants this city has to offer!

So almost immediately I began my search for the best sushi in town. A former co-worker took me to Parallax in Tremont and I immediately knew that their sushi would be hard to beat. Between the creative combinations in the sushi appetizers, the fresh nigiri and amazing specialty rolls (I highly recommend the spicy scallop roll, you won't find anything like it elsewhere), I was in love.

(Mmm...spicy scallop roll.)

To this day, Parallax remains one of my favorite restaurants in Cleveland. Though I haven't tried anything aside from sushi and the occasional splurge on dessert, I can guarantee their other entrees are phenomenal!

The atmosphere is more laid back than you might expect at first glance. The dim lighting and clean, crisp appearance might seem stuffy, but you'll quickly see that everyone there is relaxed and enjoying the company and conversations around them.

It isn't often that I make it out there, unfortunately. It is a little on the pricey side, but totally worth the splurge. And you can't beat the service! Water is always filled, there's a never-ending supply of bread and oil, and the wait staff checks in just enough to keep you happy, but not so much that it becomes annoying.

Today a good friend and I headed out for a mid-week dinner to celebrate her new job. Unfotunately, she's moving to the East Coast, so we decided to hit up one of our favorites one last time. Dinner included a yellowtail sushi appetizer with jalepeno and mango - YUM - and a variety of nigiri sushi and a salmon specialty roll.

We left full but not over stuffed, and perfectly satisfied.

I suggest, the next time you're in the mood for good sushi, take a trip out to the quaint neighborhoods in Tremont and try out Parallax. You won't be disappointed.

Price: $$$-$$$$ (sushi prices aren't bad)

Menu Selection: **** (a little of everything and a continuously changing menu)

Taste: **** (yummy!)

Service: **** (perfection)

Atmosphere: **** (dressy yet laid-back)

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Bolthouse Farms

Yeah, I know I had planned on taking a break, but did you really think I'd be able to stop talking for that long? C'mon now!

What I really want to do is RAVE today about a product that I have recently fallen in love with.

Now let me just say, as a girl who watches what she eats, my fruit juice of choice for the past months has been the Naked brand.

But in the past month I discovered a line of juices and smoothies that far surpass anything I've ever tasted: Bolthouse Farms.

My first experience was with the Green Goodness variety. I was given a taste by a friend who said "don't look at it, just drink it."

Being the adventurous type, I dove right in and LOVED what I tasted - kiwi, apple....pure yumminess. Of course, then I had to look at it. As you'd probably expect by the name, it was green. Almost looked like pureed broccoli. But trust me, it tastes way better.

Since, I've tried a number of their fruit juice varieties and loved them all.

Most recently I was introduced to the Vanilla Chai Tea flavor. It's a perfect treat in the morning, and so good for you.

What can I say, I'm hooked on this brand of juice.

I get mine at Giant Eagle in the refrigerated section near the produce. If you're looking for a healthy brand of fruit juice and smoothies, hands down Bolthouse Farms makes the best around.

Cheers!

-A

3-day Detox

As many of you who follow me on Twitter may already know, I'm a fan of the detox diet. More specifically, the 3-day fruit and juice detox.

Now you might be thinking, why on Earth would someone eat only fruit for three whole days? Well let me tell you - after a simple detox like this one, words can't even begin to describe how much better I feel.

Personally, this detox works wonders:

• I have more energy, even first thing in the morning.
• Cravings for salty, fatty foods is nearly gone.
• I'm better hydrated without even trying (constant water intake from eating alone)
• 3-5 pounds of permanent weight loss
• My mood boosts 10-fold

Those are just a few of the reasons I detox.

Add in a little exercise you'll feel even better - and sleep better too.

Now, before you get all crazy on me about messing up my body chemistry and not eating enough protein and all that, let me say this (about to preach, sorry).

The human body was not made to eat and digest meat (note our flat teeth and long intestines). Our ancestors lived off what they could gather from berries and fruit and nuts. Natural foods. Sure, they hunted, but who's to say they all consumed the meat, anyway?

Stepping down from my soapbox now.

Besides, how can you really say that consuming fresh, organic fruit for a few days is bad for you? With increased nutrients and water intake your body is probably thanking you. I know mine is.

I used to do just juice and water, but found that my energy was extremely low and I was beyond irritable. Consuming raw fruit keeps your body working, digesting. After a while, you don't even think about the cheeseburger or Chinese buffet you normally visit at lunch.

This is my take on the 3-day detox. If you don't like it, don't do it.

But if you do, and if you can make it past the cravings of day 1, it's easy sailing from there.

I highly recommend a detox every now and again (once every 6 months or so) just to reset your palate and start fresh, without those nasty cravings. There are a number of available guides you can find, just by Googling. I make my own plan based on what works for me. But I'm sure you can find one that will suit you, too.

All this coming from a girl who loves to eat more than almost anything. If I can do it, anyone can.

Cheers!

-A

RAVE: Seafood in West Cleveland

Yesterday, the SO decided for his birthday dinner that he wanted to try Salmon Dave's in Rocky River. 

This is something we'd been meaning to try but had yet to get around to - mainly because of the price.

But, if you go into the meal expecting to spend $30+ a plate, you won't be disappointed when the food arrives at your table.

Upon entering we were welcomed with friendly smiles from the hostess and manager, then seated promptly. The decor was cool, it was clearly upscale with white table cloths, but the atmosphere was rather relaxed. Walls were decorated with moose heads and large chandeliers hung from the ceiling.

Our server arrived promptly, was friendly throughout the night, but didn't interrupt our conversations (aka, my yacking on about God knows what). He kept our water glasses full too, which is saying something. We don't find that very often. As the SO says, we aren't properly hydrated in most restaurants.

I haven't had service like this in quite some time!

For starters, he went with the Lobster Bisque that everyone at his work was raving about. I passed on the soup initially, as I tend to fill up rather quickly. But one taste of the SOs and I was flagging down our server to order a cup of my own.

It was quite rich, and the SO ended up helping me finish it after he polished off his bowl, but it was by far the best bisque I've ever eaten.

Then it was on to the bruschetta. This girl likes to have a little Italian flare in every meal!

The bread was yummy, and the tomatoes were so fresh I couldn't get enough of them. I wasn't thrilled with the goat cheese fondue that was included on the side, it didn't have much flavor. But, what did I really expect from a seafood restaurant, anyway?

For the main course I really wanted to get crab and lobster, but I could hear my wallet screaming at me as I looked at the menu. So I went with the pretzel-crusted salmon.

Now, let me say this before I proceed. I'm a girl who likes my fish raw. I could eat sushi every day and be a happy girl, so cooked seafood isn't something I typically eat.

But, even with that, this was one of the best pieces of salmon I've ever eaten. It was thick and flavorful. The pretzel crust added just enough texture without taking away from the flavor of the fish.

Served on a bed of green beans and chopped potatoes, I highly recommend this dish.

The SO got shrimp and scallops that I didn't have a chance to taste before my stomach called it quits, but based on the moaning across the table it must have been pretty good.

We passed on dessert to come home and head to bed early.

Given the price and the portion size, next time we go there, we'll probably get soup and split a crab or lobster platter.

Oh yes, there will be a next time.

Here's a snapshot on Salmon Dave's:

Price: $$$$ (about $30 a plate)

Menu Selection: **** (wasn't expecting so much to choose from)

Taste: *** 

Service: ***** 

Atmosphere: **** 

So if you find yourself in West Cleveland and have a craving for seafood, head over to Salmon Dave's in Rocky River, you won't be disappointed.

Cheers!

-A

Dim Sum...yum!

As I sit here and devour my takeout from China Sea in the Theatre District, I can't help but rave about their buffet.

Prior to moving our office over here, I struggled to find good Chinese within walking distance of Public Square. There was a place in Tower City but it just didn't do it for me.

China Sea offers everything a good buffet should, including two kinds of noodles, white and brown steamed rice, and they even have sushi.

The price isn't bad either!

Since we moved here a few months back, most of my out-to-lunch options have bounced between Subway and Bricco (when we've got a little extra time).

I can't complain about either, Subway is fast and healthy and Bricco is so yummy - it's also got a great atmosphere for a business lunch. I still need to try to fried pickles. I hear they're freakin' amazing. That'll be a review for another day!

China Sea definitely helps mix it up a little. It's quick and satisfying - that is, if you can ignore the food coma after. Good, greasy Chinese food always gets me.

Cheers!

-A