Aye!

It seems there was no escaping a sinus infection this allergy season. Last year, the allergy shots kept me healthy. This year, there was no match for the wicked winds. I've had a sore throat since New York, and I fight congestion on and off. But the latest bout of winds, the ones that dropped our temps from 90 to 70 over Memorial day weekend, kicked my ass. Pressure began to build fiercely on Monday. Tuesday, I was absolutely drained. Wednesday, I thought my head would explode. By Thursday, I was contemplating buying stock in Kleenex, because I had just polished off a new box in less than 24 hours. After two days in bed, watching movies and finishing Sons of Anarchy, I was feeling a bit better and I was too bored to stay home. I'm back at the salt mines today. Just waiting for the clock to strike four. I'm anxious to return to my bed.

In other news, I did muster up enough energy yesterday to write my last article for Living-Las-Vegas. After much thought, I decided to quit my weekly writing gig. Work is picking up and free time is harder to come by. Rather than stressing about how I would juggle it all, I took the easy way out simplified. This way my free time, is mine. I can do with it how I see fit, and I can explore more of what's out there. Unleash more creativity, perhaps?

No worries, I'll still be blogging regularly, sharing adventures and giving the scoop on new dining finds.

My last article is a write up on the latest food and music festival to hit downtown, last month was the first opportunity I had to check it out; it certainly will not be the last. Vegas Values: StrEATS.

Give Thanks

Take a moment this Memorial Day to say thanks to our Armed Forces. I realize not everyone sees eye to eye, but I think we can all agree they do amazing things for our country.

Las Vegas ushers in summer with fun parties and show of appreciation is given to our military with special discounts on shows, food and pampering. Check out Vegas Values: Thanking Our Troops 'N More for a comprehensive list.

Looking for a small way to show gratitude? Send a card to a real American hero.

I Waited All Week For You

I waited all week, and finally, it's Friday. Boy! Am I ever ready for the weekend. I wish I could say it'll be restful, but I have a long to do list. There were dozens of things that were put off because we weren't sure if we'd be moving. Then, when we knew we were staying put Amy and Nicky arrived and that those things needing attention were put on the back burner.

The carpet needs cleaning, the showers need scrubbing, and the windows need washing. The yard has needed tending, too, but we got a headstart on that last weekend. There is only a bit more to be done. Like finding a solution for the corners of our backyard. The one corner has the pond. It needs flowers or something to spruce it up a bit, just to make it look finished. The opposite corner has oleander, and two palm trees. We recently tore out weathered bamboo borders. That area needs attention. We bought replacement border but it won't work. My current idea is to add dirt and plant ground cover flowers and/or plants. It's also time to replace the patio string lights, the sun and winds have beat the decorative lights to shreds. I picked up a string of globes at Big Lots. I'd like to switch those out, if the winds will cooperate.

With any luck, I'll save some energy for Sunday night's concert.

I leave you with the two LLV articles. Vegas Values: Grateful for Graeters and Vegas Values: Let Me See That Sushi Roll.

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

Mickey Mouse!

Mickey Mouse!



Yep, this weekend we're off to see the mouse and his friends. It's my first time to Disneyland, I've been to Disney World twice. I wasn't much of a fan, but I'm looking forward to experiencing the park through a child's eyes. Nicky had no idea what Disneyland was when we mentioned it to him, but he's gotten more excited as time has grown near. He might not know much about Mickey & friends, but he loves Cars and Toy Story. I'm sure he's gonna have a blast.

Monday and Tuesday we'll catch White Sox games. I had hoped to hit the beach, but the weather might be too chilly. California's highs (mid-60) are lower than our lows, it'll be 96 today and tomorrow. That cool air is going to be a shock to the system when we leave the desert on Sunday. Maybe we'll show Amy Los Angeles, instead?

Lastly, I leave you with more details about our Shark Reef adventures last weekend, Vegas Values: Fin-tastic!

Wearin' Crankypants

I must forewarn you, I'm cranky today. I wish someone would make me take a nap. Children don't understand how sweet napping actually is. Hell, I'd take a time out about now, but I digress.

Did you know Las Vegas has had the windiest April on record? Well, it's true. And I'm over it. I desperately want the winds to go away. I'd like to breathe again. Our daily temperatures have been all over, too. Ten degree swings each day seem to be the new norm. I keep telling myself "It's better than snow."

The reality of Amy and Nicky leaving soon is starting to settle in. This is our last weekend together, here, at home. Next weekend, we're off to California. We're seeing the White Sox in Anaheim, and we're taking Nicky to Disneyland. He has no idea what to expect. The rest of us have been to Disney World so we have some idea, but we're not really sure how the two parks differ. Soon, we'll know.

At any rate, I'm ready for this week day to be over. I'd like to get the weekend started. 5 hours to go. I can do it. I can do it.

Lastly, I leave you with some thoughts on our dinner Tuesday night Vegas Values: Mundo.

It's Good That it's Friday

It has been a whirlwind since we've come back from New York. I could've used a vacation from our vacation so you can imagine how tired I am. I'm doing my best to ignore the exhaustion while Amy and Nicky are here. My time with them is limited. I can catch up on sleep and rest later.

Nicky and I have played a lot of cops and zombies. Amy and I have taken him to the parks at Town Square and Mountain's Edge. We swam in the hot tub bunches. I'm hoping we'll get to use the pool before they go. Nicky is ready for it. He is holding his breath underwater up to 12 seconds and he's diving to the bottom of the hot tub collecting leaves and small sticks. We want to throw the solar cover on the pool to get it heated, but the winds have been too bad. High winds + solar cover = green pool. I'm hopeful the winds will be scarce this week so we can swim next weekend.




Sunday we went for a hike at Red Rock and our friends joined us. We did the Lost Creek discovery trail. It was a great time for all! Nicky especially enjoyed having a buddy.











The trail was a topic in this week's LLV article, Vegas Values: Red Rock Canyon.

Last week, I wrote about Farmers' Markets and the week before I shared about our stay at the Platinum Vegas Values: Another Day in Paradise.

Frank and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary last Sunday. It's wild how time flies! It feels like only yesterday I was nervously laughing hysterically while standing before our friends and family exhanging our vows at Mandalay Bay.

We have taken a rain check on our celebratory dinner, but we did get out for beers and dinner at Yard House. We hadn't been since last year so it really hit the spot.

All the cutting back was worthwhile, not only was the weight loss challenge personal success, but Frank's team also won first place. They lost more collectively than any other team that competed. They will be awarded prizes at a rally today. I'm very proud of them for all their hardwork.

I'm certain there's other tidbits I'm forgetting so I'll just have to share another day.

Happy Easter!

Fool in Love

14 years ago, today, our story began with three little words "I like you." We only have a few more years left until we will be together longer than we've been without each other.

Mushiness aside, things have been pretty crazy of late. Some weeks are slower than molasses and others have me begging for more hours in a day. As you might imagine I'm currently wishing for time to be on my side. I had a bunch of thoughts that never made a post, so instead I leave you this mish mash.

We're only a few days away from New York. I haven't begun to research restaurants or sights. I do plan to tackle it today. We do have tickets to see Charlie Sheen and The Book of Mormon while in NYC.

Birthday and anniversary celebratory dinners are postponed until sometime after New York.

My sister and Nicky are here! The why isn't important. I'm just happy they arrived safe and sound. They'll be staying about 6 weeks. We have a lot of fun planned. I look forward to all the memories we will make.

The family surprised me with cupcakes for belated birthday celebration. That was unexpected and nice.

Today is opening day for the White Sox. Go Sox! We'll see them next month in Anaheim.

I've planted all sorts of flowers. Most importantly, I hope they live. I also hope they fill in and flourish so I can admire their beauty.

I haven't even begun my photo assigned due tomorrow. Must get on it!

We bought tickets to Weezer in August. I hope to see more concerts this summer.

It's 90 today, I wish I wasn't stuck at work grinding away at my desk. Beautiful days like today are meant to be enjoyed.

Check out Vegas Values: Legendary Pancakes.

I'm sure there's more I'm forgetting, but this will have to due. I need to get on that New York list of things to do and places to eat.

Cabo Wabo is Rockin'

I love restaurants with good music. Stack and Yard House always fit the bill. I didn't expect to like my latest find, Cabo Wabo Cantina. I'm usually adverse to touristy chains, but a few deserve their praises. Sammy Hagar's joint does just that. It has a relaxed vibe, yet it's still lively. No cover for live entertainment, drink specials, and reasonably priced Mexican fare make it A-OK in my book. Learn more at Vegas Values: Name This Hotspot.

Craft Beers n' More

Last Friday came and went, and I failed to share my LLV article. It completely slipped my mind. So, for your Wednesday reading enjoyment check out Vegas Values: Miller's Ale House.

Madness

I can't believe March Madness is soon upon us. These months tick by like seconds on a clock. This means my birthday is right around the corner, too. Geez... another older and wiser, I suppose.

Anyway, after a brief hiatus I'm back with a Living-Las-Vegas column this week, Vegas Values: Shenanigans & Hoopla.

Frank's "Get Fit Challenge" is a few weeks from wrapping up and I'm eager to put it behind us. I miss food. Not that I want to gorge myself silly or anything, but I want to give into those cravings every now and then. I really do want to continue a healthy life style, and I plan to support Frank in reaching his ultimate weightloss goal. But I love the break dining out provides, I love the experience of enjoying a favorite or trying a new restaurant. When done in moderation I see no issue with it. Hopefully, it won't be long before I have tasty eats to share again.

Last night, we bowled with a group of Frank's co-workers. It was good fun! When we came home Frank turned on the tv, then the mood quickly changed when CNN cut to the Breaking News of Japan's earthquake. We watched the images of lighting and signs shaking. Concern didn't really strike until I recalled that Japan is equipped for quakes, but it is tsunamis that are devasting. Minutes later, they switched feeds and we watched the tsunami hit in real time. It was surreal. We found ourselves yelling at the TV for gawkers standing on a bridge to get the hell out before they were hit by the wake of devastation. Boats and buildings crumbled in an instant. I had never seen anything like it. My heart goes out to all of those affected.

I Cheated...

And it was wonderful! Yesterday, to celebrate our one month without red meat, we went to Windy City Beefs N Dogs. I ate a beef sandwich with mozzarella and hot giardiniera. Goodness! It was DELICIOUS. Tender well seasoned beef nestled in a Gonella roll topped with gooey cheese and vinegary veggies. Um, yeah, yum! It was the first meal out just Frank and me. I enjoyed it, probably far more than I should've. I haven't been giggly over food in a month, and it was so nice to have that feeling back. Frank got two beef sandwiches, but his eyes were bigger than his new smaller appetite. We skipped the fries altogether. The beef was splurge enough. After eating my hands smelled like beef sandwich. It was like the world's best smelling perfume. I was reluctant to wash my hands. Probably sad to admit, but it was true.

That was third meal I ate this week that I didn't prepare. The breaks have been nice. I think the dishwasher is even appreciative. It's gotten such a workout this month. Sunday, friends grilled pollo and carne asada. I had myself a tasty chicken burrito. Then, on Monday, we had dinner with my uncle that was visiting from Chicago. We had dinner at Grand Lux. I had my favorite wedge salad. It was good, but not nearly as enjoyable as that beef sandwich. All the home cooking, calorie counting and healthy choice making has paid off. In one month, I've lost 9 lbs and Frank has lost 24. We've made great strides, and earned those beef sandwiches. Dammit.

And gosh! Reliving our Circo meal when writing this week's article was tough. I so badly wanted to pick up the phone and call in a reservation, but I resisted. Perfection is worth the wait. Vegas Values: Tuscan Treasures.

Dear Friday

I appreciate your punctual arrival. However, I do ask that you allow today's work day to fly by at a rapid pace. This week has left me exhausted. I've dealt with several annoyances, met deadlines, and suffered through cold. I just want to go home and curl up in a nice warm bed with a good book. Oh, yes, I am a rockstar. Why do you ask?

Sincerely,

One exhausted rockstar

If I don't immediately fall asleep when I get home. Maybe we'll head over to the Hilton to check out the prop bets for the Super Bowl? Frank suggested we should, but we haven't gotten around to it so far this week. We've been too busy freezing at home under covers obsessing over what we'd love to be eating, and drinking.

He has an insane weekend ahead. Mine will likely be extremely quiet. I might take a peek at the Sunday's game to see how my football squares fare. Maybe I'll also have some prop bets to root for? I only like the crazy ones. I've only seen those offered by Caesars Entertainment thus far, and those were pretty straight up, routine. Probably what the majority of bettors are interested in, unlike me, who'd prefer to bet on the color of gatorade dumped on the winning coach.

Have fun at the parties on Sunday, drink lots-o-beer and eat fattening snacks for me. Last week, I compiled a list of where to watch the grid iron action. Check it out, Vegas Values: Big Game Parties. And today I highlighted specials for Cupid's holiday, Vegas Values: Valentine's Day. Make those reservations sooner rather than later.

Cheesesteaks!

I love a good cheesesteak! One of these days I'm going to have to get myself to Philly to try an original. Then I can join the debate over who is better? Geno's or Pat's. In the meantime, I'll have to settle for what Vegas has to offer. Fortunately, we have some good options. My favorite Philly Steak Out (at Ft Apache/Trop) closed down awhile back. It was a sad, sad day when I learned I'd never get that tasty bite again. Ever since, I've been looking for replacement. I've had dozens of unmemorable sandwiches, some should be ashamed to have called theirs cheesesteak on the menu. However, a couple are stand outs. Before finding POP's I liked the cheesesteaks at Capriotti's. Then, Frank turned me on to the real deal over on Decatur. Get the details at Vegas Values: Direct from Philly.

Yes, I could really go for a cheesesteak and cheese fries about now. But I'll behave and enjoy my spicy chicken stew for lunch. One day I shall be reunited with that ooey gooey cheesy beefy goodness.

Going down

I love seeing the numbers on the scale go down. We've been meatless since Sunday, it seems our detox is going well. Frank said he was missing meat, but admitted it was probably in his head. I haven't missed it one bit. I won't be going vegetarian or anything but I can see myself committing to more meatless meals. I made my first stir fry this week. It came out well. However, we've learned Frank isn't a fan of ginger so I'll be cutting that out, and I'll also add siracha next time. The red pepper flakes weren't cutting it. We like heat!



I altered this Ginger Beef Stir Fry recipe.

Ingredients:
1 tsp. cornstarch
¼ cup cold water
2 tbsp. plum sauce
2 tsp. ginger
1 tbsp. low sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp. red pepper flakes
1 tbsp. vegetable or canola oil
1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced thin
1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced thin
1½ cups small broccoli florets
1 carrot, peeled and julienned
4 green onions, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp. lightly salted peanuts, chopped
Rice, for serving

Directions:
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water; whisk until smooth. Stir in the plum sauce, ginger, soy sauce and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the oil to the pan and heat through. Add the peppers, broccoli and carrot pieces to the skillet and stir fry until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Mix in the green onion and garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the sauce to the pan, stirring well to coat everything. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes more. Stir in the peanuts.

Switching gears, I'll leave you with this week's article Vegas Values: Time is Running Out. Check it out for more details about The Lion King at Mandalay Bay.

Happy Friday!

I'm so happy the weekend is only a couple hours away. This has been a long ass week, but it's ended on a high note. It's been a great day! Frank was able to schedule an appointment he's been waiting a month to get. I registered for a photography class that'll start March 5. I also got a pleasant surprise when I opened my paystub, I got more money for Italy or a raise, depending how you see it. Things are looking up in Las Vegas! This is our first raise since 2008. The last couple years have been all about cost cutting, this is really fantastic.

I exercised 3x this week fulfilling my weekly goal. Frank and I are both geared up for the healthy challenge. This is our last weekend of indulgence for awhile. We have every intent to eat well, the piggies that we are. Tomorrow night we're seeing Lion King over at Mandalay Bay, I'm thinking we might check out Border Grill or Fleur. Frank hasn't cashed in his birthday dinner, so I'm thinking we might do that on Sunday. A fun weekend is ahead.

I'll leave you with the scoop on the New York-style slices at Cosmo, Vegas Values: "Secret" Pizza.

Last post of 2010

It's been a great year, thanks for joining me for the ride. May the new year bring health, wealth and happiness for us all!

I'll leave you with the details of our Greek Christmas at Estiatorio Milos, Vegas Values: Milos Boasts the Best.

Happy New Year!

Ramblings

By golly! I saw the sun. It was only for a quick minute this morning when it raised above the clouds that had collected over the east valley. It blinded me for a moment. Then, it was gone. It might be shining at this very moment, but I wouldn't know. I've been chained to my desk since I arrived this morning, answering roof leak call, after roof leak call. Let me tell you, everyone who took this week off, chose a mighty fine time to do so. It's been crazed.

In five more hours, my holiday weekend will begin. Three fun-filled days lie ahead. I cannot wait.

Last night, we attempted to eat at Rio's buffet. We have two free to any of Harrah's, eh scratch that, Caesars Entertainment Properties. I think Spice Market is still likely the best, but it's been a decade since we've been to the feast at the Rio, we thought we'd give it a whirl. No dice. The place was pretty well dead, except the buffet. The line snaked all around the buffet and around the poker room. There is no buffet worth that wait, even if it were free.

We bailed, and went to Southpoint. I had heard Steak & Shake had opened. We went in, and were were impressed by the addition. The poker room is large and quite nice, and the sports book? Huge. The Race Book is now separate and it really caters to the horse player. This is the place for racing. We wandered over to Steak & Shake, we were greeted by another monster line. No burger was worth that wait. I told Frank I was 0-2, I'm not making another pick. Dinner was his choice. Raising Cane's it was, it hit the spot. Check out Vegas Values: Crazy about Cane's for details. I had been craving it since Monday. We went to Off the Strip that night for dinner, instead. I was burger'd out and had a hankering for fried chicken. I had a shitty buffalo chicken wrap. Needless to say it did little to satisfy my craving.

While we talking food, let me tell you about a lunch I had last week at the Palm. On of the project managers treated all of us ladies in the office. We had a private room in back. our choice of soup or salad, entree (steak or salmon) and dessert. I had the caesar salad. It had nice flavor and a ton of anchovies, six, I think. Usually, you'll get a filet or two. The sauteed salmon angelo which was a wine butter sauce with capers and artichokes. It was beautifully prepared and quite tasty. We also had shared plates of chips, fried onions and veggies. Dessert followed, key-lime pie or NY Cheesecake. I had the latter, it was rich and creamy. Service was attentive, we had two, that catered to the ten of us. Overall, it was a nice experience.

Time to run, duty calls. And calls, and calls.

Safe travels all! Merry Christmas!

First Look at Cosmo

Check out my first impressions of the newest kid on the block at Vegas Values: Cosmo Dazzles.

Overall, I like it better than I thought I would. I did find design flaws, like a random elevator in the casino took us to the basement, another took us to valet. The buffet feels like it's miles from anything. You'd swear it was a complete afterthought. Still, I think they did a nice job working with all the challenges. I was impressed by the friendliness of the staff. Those we encountered went above and beyond to assist us. I'd love to see that level of customer service continue. Of course, I'm anxious to dine there. I've long awaited Scarpetta, I gotta see what the fuss is about. I'm interested in Jaleo and China Pablano. Comme Ca sounds good, and I most excited about Greek coming to the strip. Filling that niche is long overdue. After touring the buffet I must check out Wicked Spoon, I'm sure I'll also try Holsteins and others.

I'm interested to see how my impressions change after another look, it's always hard to truly gauge a place on opening night.

I forgot

Last week I shared details of our meal at Rare 120º, but failed to realize I never shared about Seablue. It was the article I wrote the week prior, but with all the Thanksgiving hubbub, I completely forgot. It works to my favor, because I'm short on time... Duty calls, I have many loose ends to tie up at work. So, for today's reading enjoyment check out Vegas Values: Seablue.

Oh! Friday...

How I've missed you. The arrival of Friday means the weekend is near. I have a two-day work-week ahead and then it's sweet, sweet vacation. After looking over the calendar, I realized I only have to work 13 more days this year. Kinda crazy.

This week at LLV, you'll find my write up on Rare 120º. We dined on Monday to take advantage of the 50% off menu items. Get the scoop at Vegas Values: Rare 120º.