Sometimes a good way to mix up date night is by double dating or group dating.
We recently went to a dinner party with two other couples and it was a great way to socialize while still loving on your spouse.
I absolutely love dinner parties — especially when they end with a round of charades (or any type of game, but I dominate at charades). I think food and games are the best ways to bring people together and enjoy one another’s company. I often wish we had a bigger space or a garden for the sole purpose of putting on more events. I used to be a wedding planner so planning events is in my DNA. I love the little details that come together to make an unforgettable event. I love planning the event sometimes even more than attending (I am working on living more in the moment on this one). One day, I will have the perfect venue to host to my heart’s content. But for now you can find me scouting all our local parks to find the perfect setting for an outdoor dinner party.
A clam bake would be the perfect group date for these warm summer nights.
I mentioned in my previous post on Pismo Beach the idea to roast s’mores in waffle cones for a new twist on the classic campfire dessert. I got a couple responses asking for more details.
Let me explain what I mean a little better….
1. Buy waffle cones (sugar cones could work too depending on your preference) from your local grocery store (if your feeling really daring you could make your own — I am sure it would be that much more delicious).
2. Fill the cone with mini marshmallows, skor bar crumbles, chocolate chips, peanut butter, banana or strawberries.
3. Wrap cone in tin foil.
4. Place on open grill and let it cook for 5-10 minutes.
5. Remove tin foil and enjoy!
I learned this method one night when I was volunteering with the cub scouts. I thought it was such a great idea — especially with young kids since it is so much less mess.
I am so excited to share with you a collaboration I have been working on
with a dear friend and fellow blogger.
Emily, of Twenty – Somethings , and I were in a couple classes together while attending the University of Utah. We instantly hit it off and have kept in touch ever since. We both enjoy discovering new things in our respective cities and thought it would be fun to work together on city guides.
We hope each week to bring you top 5 eateries, things to do, must sees, where to shop and more of Silicon Valley and Washington DC. This way we have you covered from coast to coast!
And what better way to start this series off than with the top 5 must eat brunch spots? Brunch is something Emily and I (yes, we even have the same name — so in sync) are very passionate about so we searched high and low for the best of the best. Trust us, you will not want to miss any of these great restaurants in either city!
Silicon Valley stretches from San Francisco to San Jose.
I guess I could have technically picked one city but, when you live in the South Bay you tend to not stick to just one since everything is so close together and you want to see it all. For my picks, I searched the whole valley to bring you the best brunch spots. I tried to spread them out across the peninsula so anywhere you are living or visiting has a brunch spot near you.
Let’s begin. Shall we?
1. Zazie(Cole Valley, SF) : My sister, N, actually recommended Zazie to me about a year ago. She was coming into town (currently resides in Texas) with her husband to celebrate their anniversary in Napa and was scheduled to stay a day in the city. N is the biggest foodie of my whole family so when she recommends something I know it will blow my mind. We met up at Zazie for brunch and even though it was a little while ago I still remember the taste of every dish we had. I have never had such a perfectly poached egg in my life. All their dishes are not only creatively planned but executed to perfection. The menu offers many different variations of poached eggs, which was refreshing because most places just stick to eggs benedict. We each chose a different type of poached egg and were convinced ours was the very best. You must also try their gingerbread pancakes. I am usually not a big fan of gingerbread but these pancakes were heavenly. Pancakes are topped with lemon curd to get the perfect balance of both flavors. This is by far my favorite brunch spot out of anywhere in the world! N would totally agree so you know you need to check it out ASAP! Do come early … We arrived a half hour before it opened to put our name on the list and we still had to wait a little bit once the restaurant opened. The wait time can be lengthy.
2. The Table(Willow Glen, San Jose) : The Table is a newer restaurant located in the quaint city of Willow Glen. The ambiance and service are top notch and the menu diverse (all 3 factors make for a great restaurant in my book). I would recommend the sugar dusted ricotta beignets, pork belly sandwich and fried chicken with cheddar cheese biscuit. The Table only purchases from local farmers and ranchers, which they believe makes their food more flavorful. I would have to agree with this philosophy!
3. Pastis (Palo Alto) : Pastis is a French bistro located a couple miles south of downtown Palo Alto. This charming bistro is the perfect way to start your morning and transport you back to the streets of Paris. The menu is authentic and offers many different options which, sometimes makes it hard to choose just one thing! I would recommend le parisien (nutella topped french toast), croque monsieur, bread pudding and any omelette. Bon appetit!
4. Toosties at the Stanford Barn(Stanford, Palo Alto) : This endearing Italian style brick building may make your heart skip a beat. Sometimes it is all about location, location , location with brunch but good thing Toosties is just as appetizing to the eyes as it is to the stomach! I seriously could have stayed here gazing at the fields for hours and would have loved to try everything on the menu. I would recommend the housemade ricotta pancakes (very different than any pancake I have ever had at brunch), breakfast panino and the grilled nutella sandwich. The menu could be considered limited, but sometimes the basics is all I need. Do try to sit outside because it the best way to experience Toosties!
5. Town (San Carlos) : My old boss kept on telling me that I had to try this place. He often went for dinner, but when I saw that they had a brunch menu it solidified my need to check it out. I have never had brunch at a steak restaurant. Have you? It is something you must try. Perfectly seasoned steak and a side of eggs to start off my day? Don’t mind if I do. Do try the farmhouse chicken and waffles, steakhouse benedict and banana hazelnut chocolate stuffed french toast. The service is efficient and courteous. Mmmmm I am getting hungry just thinking about being back here.
I can’t forget to mention the cute artist that allowed us to use her work on our header. Isn’t it darling? Her name is Sara Selby and she creates the most adorable city prints. I had been lusting after every city print in her shop so I was so glad when she happily agreed to provide her prints for our use.
How cute would a collage of these prints on one wall of a nursery be? You would sure give your child wanderlust early on!
Be sure to check out Emily’s blog Twenty – Somethings for details on all her brunch picks! And don’t forget to check back next week for another edition of #cityweekly
On our last day in Pismo Beach, we packed up the tent and wanted to hit the road relatively early so we didn’t arrive too late in the Bay Area. B and I differ on what kind of quick breakfast to have — I always want fresh juices, acai bowls or smoothies and he thinks it’s the perfect excuse for a sausage mcmuffin. I can never convince him to go the healthier route so we always end up doing both.
As I was searching for a good juice bar, I stumbled upon VirtJuice in Arroyo Grande (about 3 miles south of Pismo Beach and about a 5 min drive from where we stayed).
It was the perfect assortment of pressed juices and smoothies. VirtJuice even offered “immunity” shots consisting of lemon, ginger, cayenne and coconut water, which is perfect after a long 4th of July weekend of late nights and early mornings.
VirtJuice hand presses their juices every morning and displays them in mason jars. They are the first thing to sell out of so be sure to arrive early if you are craving the juice!
I decided on the cookie dough smoothie. My sister has recommended a similar smoothie to me so I knew I had to try it. It was delicious. I could have sipped on it contently the whole car ride! It had such a fresh and healthy taste, but weirdly tasted similar to cookie dough. It was amazing — wish there was one close by so I could order this smoothie on the daily. I think I would have to try Carrot Cake next.
I love how different VirtJuice’s options are than the standard smoothie market. And I am sure their menu will only expand from here since we visited on their 4th day of business!
For a full 36 hour guide to Pismo Beach click here To see where we stayed in Pismo click here
Happy Monday! Hope you all had a great weekend.
Ours was filled with impromptu dance parties, lazy mornings snuggling in bed, pancakes, and movie nights. It was a more low key sort of weekend and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
For movie night, we decided to throw it back and watch Batman (you know with Jack Nicholson as the joker and Tim Burton directing?) It was a little cheesy, but still fun to see. Next up, Batman Begins!
Don’t forget to use #weekendinpolaroids in instagram or twitter so I can follow along on your weekend adventures!
Did you ever used to watch “The Newlywed Game” ?
Although I have never watched a full episode (only small clips on youtube – it was a little before my time. give me a break), I love the idea of it.
I can be pretty competitive so a game to showcase your listening skills and learn about your partner in the process is right up my ally. There have been some modern spins on the legendary game. I have watched them and secretly always wanted to be a contestant. I don’t know why but, it sounds like so much fun. I love getting to know others (especially my B) and this game really tests how well you listened and got to know them for exactly who they are and not how you perceive them.
B and I used to play the question game while we were dating and still do now but slightly different version. The question game is where you have think of questions (deep or shallow) to ask your spouse and he/she has to answer no matter what and then you have to answer. It has sparked many conversations for B and I. I really like being asked the questions because often it is a subject I have never even thought of. It helps you to learn a little bit about yourself too!
So when I saw a take home version of the Newlywed Game from the Dating Divas, I knew I had to give it a go. And I was so glad I did. This is another cost effective and highly interactive type date. This game could be played after dinner, in the park, in your car, anywhere really.
Dating Diva supplies questions and the questionnaire. All you have to do is print!
Husbands out there looking for a simple yet sentimental date this is perfect for you! Playing this game + making her a dessert is money in the bank. You can thank me later.
This also doesn’t have to be a romantic thing. I think it would be fun to play with friends and siblings. It will test how deep your relationship is!
Confession… B and I have not had the chance to play the game yet, but we do plan on doing it this evening. I will let you know how it goes and what I learn!
I knew I had to treat myself after conquering my fears but couldn’t decide exactly what I wanted. And then it came to me… PSYCHO DONUTS.
Psycho Donuts is a legend around the south bay. I have been told by many different people that I need to try it and so try it I did. It also seemed like the perfect reward.
Psycho Donuts has two locations — one in San Jose and the other in the quaint town of Campbell.
We knew we had arrived when the decor resembled that of an insane asylum and the line was out the door. The workers were even dressed as nurses. It was kind of a trip but in the best possible way. Since the line was so long we had a lot of time to decide on which flavors to choose. Psycho’s donuts are very diverse and offers lots of different flavor combinations. The donuts are about 3 times the price of any normal donut shop but they are unique and it is experience so it didn’t turn us away.
We decided on three. I was hoping to try the s’mores donut but, unfortunately, it was already sold out (guess we can assume it is a good one!). So we went with cereal killer, that one and chocolate turtle.
I couldn’t get over all the different names. So clever! There is even a Michael Jackson donut with powder sugar dusting a chocolate donut. Too good. And those drinks? It really is all in the details.
All in all the donuts were good. Nothing blew my mind but, the experience of it all was fun and unique. It is very tiny inside so there is not many places to sit but I think most people order their donuts to go.
I also hear Psycho Donuts offers a new invention called, “The Danolli”. It is a cross between a donut and a canolli. Sounds like something I may have to get there early for!
Fear (noun): A distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid
I would not say I live in fear but I do have a few big fears (hope I am not alone on this).
One of those fears is needles. I really can’t pinpoint when this fear began but it is one of my biggest. The thought of needles gets me squirmish. I have been avoiding shots and giving blood like the plague. I even put my dreams of venturing to India and Africa on the back burner because I found out there are mandatory vaccinations before traveling. I can’t explain my irrational behavior when it comes to needles, I just know the fear that strikes in my heart.
Recently, B recommended we get life insurance (sure we are a little young but it is better to plan ahead!). I was completely on board until we spoke with our agent who mentioned there would have to be blood work done. I asked if a simple prick of the finger would suffice and he said no. In order to move forward I would have to provide a substantial blood sample for testing. I debated if this was really necessary. I pleaded to Ben to not make me do this because I didn’t know if I could. This sounds so pathetic as I write, but when you have fear it is sometimes hard to think rational.
B encouraged me to face my fear. He said I couldn’t let the fear of something dictate my life. I agreed and set an appointment for the physical. Three or four days before the exam I started having nightmares. I can’t remember all the little details, but I do remember waking up in panic about getting this blood work done.
B thought it would be a good idea to prepare me for what was to come. He pretended to find a vein, wipe my arm with alcohol and prick me with a pen. Although obviously it didn’t hurt, I still had the rush of fear over me and I became emotional.
I was so mad at myself because it seemed so irrational and I couldn’t even pinpoint exactly why I was afraid. My emotions just seemed to take over.
The day of the appointment came and I just focused on my breathing. I started to cry as soon as I entered the examination room. I couldn’t hold it back. I asked the examiner to please begin with the blood work because I could not take the anxiety any longer. She quickly agreed and got to it.
I laid down and had B sit in a chair facing me. I squeezed his hand with all my might. B started to sing to me as the examiner tied my arm and looked for a vein. Before B could even take a picture the examiner was done!
A weight had been lifted from me. I felt on top of the world.
Now I am not saying I am gonna go out and get a tattoo or sign up for the next blood drive but I am saying I can do it (with B singing to me of course). I won’t let this fear dictate me any longer. I can get the vaccinations to travel to Africa and India.
I am renewed.
Now on to conquering the rest of the fears on the list…
What are some of your biggest fears?
Pismo Beach is an easy breezy beach town located half way between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Its’ small town feel and endless beach draws California natives and West Coast dwellers alike. So of course I had to check it out!
6:30pm: Dinner at Ventana Grill- This Latin inspired restaurant is situated on the cliffs of Pismo Beach. The panoramic views (see picture above), modern decor and flavorful dishes make this place a must eat . Ventana starts you off with homemade tortillas and cinnamon butter while you peruse the menu. We started with clam chowder, which was one of the best we have ever had — it had the perfect ratio of clams to potatoes. For entrees, B ended up choosing the chicken burrito and I chose jumbo shrimp al ajillo. Both were a little spicy, but the flavor of each was unreal. I don’t love spicy entrees but I couldn’t get enough of the garlic and chile combo. For dessert, we chose the fondue plate with homemade churros. The dessert was very average. Next time, I would opt for an appetizer or side dish instead because savory is definitely their specialty. Do note, Ventana Grill issues very few reservations (two per hour I think, they prefer leaving their tables open to walk-ins. ) so it is best to come around 6:30pm or the wait will be insane. They do have a lovely bar with the same stunning view if you do find your self playing the waiting game!
8pm: Sunset – Watch the sunset on benches located on the balcony of Ventana Grill. It is the perfect spot to relax and remember what vacationing is all about.
DAY TWO
9am: Breakfast at Honeymoon Cafe- The cafe caters to locals and tourists alike. Its’ fresh and simplistic menu leaves you wanting more. I chose an english muffin egg sandwich with fresh spinach and B opted for the traditional egg, bacon & potato combo. It was very chilly and overcast when we arrived so I had to get a hot coco to bring me comfort. It was well worth it — look at the size of that thing! There is dinning indoors but it is pretty small. Honeymoon Cafe is located about 5 blocks away from the downtown area. There is only street parking so come early and you will leave happy!
11am: Kayak – Grab a kayak and explore the caves of Pismo Beach. Central Coast Kayaks offers an amazing “Cave Expenditure” tour. The tour lasts about 3 hours and all levels are able to attend. B and I were very much looking forward to this tour but the weather was not on our side. I really hope we are able to experience the caves next time because I hear great things! Tour includes guide, instruction, paddling equipment, water, snacks and pictures!
2pm: Lunch at Mo’s Smokehouse BBQ- Great little BBQ joint located right next to the iconic Pismo Beach pier! Their signature is ribs and pork sandwiches, but we ended up deciding to share half a bbq chicken. It was so juicy and the skin was grilled to perfection (just the way I like it). There are three different sauces available and so of course we had to dip the chicken in all three. Sweet Carolina sauce ended up winning the title in our book. All entrees are served with baked beans, potato salad and corn bread muffins. The portions are huuuuuge! And we had to order fries per B’s request. The side of fries could have fed 4 people comfortably. Needless to say we left with full stomachs and clogged arteries!
4pm: Explore the Sand Dunes - As I mentioned before, Pismo Beach has endless beaches (18 miles I believe) so what better way to explore them than on an ATV?! I have driven an ATV in Park City (where B claims I almost killed us) but there is nothing like driving one with the ocean in the distance. It is a whole new experience. Sun Buggy offers a plethora of options of four wheelers and the prices can’t be beat! All prices include helmets and goggles.
7pm: Dinner at Ribline by the Beach- Located about two miles south of Pismo Beach in the smaller town of Grover Beach. Ribline has great BBQ style options with the the most clever names! I chose the “skinny pig” (there is also “naked piggy in the club” and “bye bye piggy”) which is a pulled pork sandwich without sauce. Ribline rubs their meat with special spices to sit overnight so even without the bbq sauce the meat was so flavorful! Ben ordered the burger and said it was some of the best fries he had ever had! Service was on the slower side, but the food comes piping hot!
9pm: Roast s’mores on the beach! Pismo Beach represents how California used to be so live up the opportunity to make your own bonfire and roast those puppies! Have you ever bought waffle cones and filled them with marshmallows, peanut butter and chocolate chips then wrapped it in tin foil to roast over the fire? It is amazing and a lot less mess! I will have to do a little feature to show exactly what I mean because you need to try this.
DAY THREE
9am: Breakfast at Penny’s All American Cafe – This diner style cafe is located not too far from the Honeymoon Cafe and offers the all american staples like fluffy pancakes, french toast, omelets, sausage, etc. It is one hearty breakfast! The line does get long fast so be sure to get there before your starving. Too often I come hangry to busy restaurants so this reminder is to me…
10:30am: Walk Downtown Pismo – From Penny’s, walk toward the beach and you will end up in the thick of the downtown area where there are many shops to gaze at. There is a taffy shop on the corner that offers quite the selection and tastes delicious. They also do tours of how taffy is made throughout the day. Oh and don’t forget to walk a little north and grab yourself a cinnamon roll from Old West Cinnamon Roll. You can smell them from a block away!
Pismo Beach was so quaint and charming. It is the perfect 36 hour getaway.
Oh and one more thing don’t forget to stay here when you come into town. It is a secluded oasis from the hustle and bustle, but still provides the ocean view!
Hope you all had a lovely weekend!
I know I sure did. I live for the weekend these days. I live for sleeping in next to B and making breakfast together. I live for tennis on Saturdays and lazy Sundays. I live for going through the day at a slower pace.
And so to showcase my love for the weekends a little better I decided to start a new series where I share a quick recap of my weekend in polaroids!
The first polaroid camera I got was this one when I was about 10 years old. I loved it and took pictures constantly. My mom used to display my pictures all around the house even though they were pretty ordinary (thanks Mom for always making me feel like an artist). I still have the camera and use it occasionally, but film for it is through the roof! I am talking $3/picture, which can add up quite quickly.
Recently, I scoured the internet and consoled my photographer bff in search of another great polaroid option without breaking the bank in film. She recommended the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8.
It is a little bit of a learning game trying to get the best light and ideal angle with this camera but I hope to master it!
I absolutely love the composition of the photos and the small little momento that is easy to fit in my wallet. I am trying to think of a good way to display all of these fun, quirky photos and once I come up with one I will let you know! Anyone have any ideas?
Here it is the first #weekendinpolaroids And hopefully not the last… bear with these pictures of mine…
I would love to see what your weekend entailed! Be sure to use #weekendinpolaroids on Instagram or Twitter so I can follow along on your weekend adventure!
