A Taste of Chicago

A true Summer staple in Chicago is the Taste of Chicago, which is going on right now.

 I look forward to going every summer and tasting something new.

After work Tuesday, armed with my discount tickets, I headed over.  I started off with a taste explosion at Bobak's, a mini chicken sausage with sauerkraut and onions topped with a raspberry chipotle sauce. 

 This turned out to be my new favorite taste portion.

 Next up was a Latin/Indian fusion restaurant.

I was intrigued by the Mango Dusted Fries and they did not disappoint. Very interesting combination of flavors that I really enjoyed.

A couple of Taste favorites, Crab Rangoon and Mustard Fried Catfish.

Smoke Daddy is a popular BBQ joint that I have long wanted to try, so I seized the chance.

Mini pulled chicken sandwich, so juicy!

So I'm pretty full at this point, but there is always room for ice cream.

This is the one and only Original Rainbow Cone, a Chicago favorite.  Having one is a tradition every time I visit the Taste.

And I couldn't leave without a photo op at Buckingham Fountain.

Dress - The Limited

Sandals - Target

Jessica Simpson Shades - Marshall's

Have any of my readers ever visited the Taste of Chicago?  If so, what was your favorite dish?

Mexican Seafood

This past Saturday my sister and I went to El Barco Mariscos in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago.  This is my favorite Mexican Restaurant that specializes in Seafood. 

Sitting outside with my Pina Colada, so refreshing and tasty.

My sister with a Lime Margarita on the rocks.

 

My sister ordered the Chicken Enchilada's since she is allergic to seafood.

I ordered the deep fried garlic flavored tilapia (head and tail included).  Most entrees come with fresh steamed veggies, rice, guacamole and refried beans.  And yes these platters are as huge as they look. 



Other favorites from here include the huge Red Snapper, Ceviche and Salmon Fajitas.  Whatever you order you really can't go wrong with, a true Mexican food feast at affordable prices.

Floral Friday

You may remember this jacket I got on a recent trip to Minnesota.  Yesterday was a bit of a chilly day, so I was able to break it out and got so many compliments on it, I just love it.

Jacket - Unique Thrift Store MN

Harem Pants - Forever 21

Long Tank - H&M

Vince Camuto Booties - Macy's

Just wanted to say a special thank you to Inez at Style Chic 360 for featuring me today!  Check her blog to find out how I got started blogging.  Thanks again Inez!

I have a fun filled busy weekend ahead and hope to have some posts about it next week. 

Everyone enjoy your weekend! 

My Home - Bedroom

Some of you may remember what my bedroom was like before I moved. 

In my new apartment I kept the same theme and pieces, but scaled down a few things to accommodate a smaller space.

Curtains from Target and Anna's Linens.  Rug is from World Market.  Floor lamp and curtain rod from Ikea.  Duvet cover set is from Marshall's.

I found it a bit challenging to have such a small closet, but everything does fit.

This size closet forces me to constantly re-evaluate my wardrobe and shopping habits, making certain that I only have items that I absolutely love in there. 

The basket on the left holds clutches. 

I installed these small wall shelves from Target to display the tea cups I bought in Japan.

Paper lantern from CB2.

This purse is another purchase from Japan. 

Vase from Target.  Custom DIY Art - I bought a damaged blank canvas and covered it with fabric both on clearance at JoAnn's.

  Shelf is from Target that holds my jewelry in bins, sunglasses, a few books, poetry binders, and other odds and ends.  Platform bed and dresser from Dania Furniture.

Mirrors and chair from Ikea.  Cushion covers from CB2.

Scarves (love this multi-use hanger from Ikea) and belts hang on the back of the door.

My bedroom is very small, but it's cozy and comfortable and has everything I need.

Stay tuned for the rest of my home tour...

(See the Living room here)

Smoothie Queen

In the warmer weather I am obsessed with making smoothie's.  Strawberry, banana, pineapple is one of my favorite combinations.  But last week I experimented and had a taste explosion that I just had to share.

I combined a mango, canned pineapples, lime sherbert and a little bit of orange juice into the blender. 

The result was quite refreshing and tasty.  I'm going to call this drink the "Green Sing."  ;  )    

I always make enough to enjoy right away and to freeze for later.  

What cool refreshing beverage do you enjoy in the summer months?

Spring Wrap Up 2011!

Here are my favorite outfits from this Spring.

 

 

 

To all my dear readers, thanks for sticking with me for another season and for you new ones, welcome! 

Happy Summer!