i heart cleveland

Celebrate Maple Syrup & Pancakes (03.13-21)

2010-03-11T16:27:00.002-05:00

Saturday, March 13th - 20th, 2010

Celebrate the "pancake capitol of the world" with the arrival of springtime and maple sap = SYRUP!

Drive around and enjoy the 2010 March Maple Madness "Drive it Yourself" Tour. For the details of the driving tour click here.

For the details on the pancake feast click here.

AI Root.

2010-03-09T10:13:00.002-05:00

The other day I had an opportunity to travel down to Medina for a women's business luncheon. The lunch was to be hosted by A.I. Root, the famous Ohio candle makers.

Knowing me I had expected to end up leaving the meeting with a few “Root” candles in hand (chocolate, hosta & spiced ginger to be specific) but I never expected to find the most amazing gift shop ever. Anything and everything you can imagine from unique pillows, frames and candle holders (duh?) to a darling childrens shop, cook books (they offer cooking classes occasionally), purses and adorable little home accents. Let’s just say it was more than I had expected. Tres chic.

If you ever are looking for that perfect “afternoon drive,” drive down to sunny Medina where the folks at A.I. Root will WOW you with their special gifts for everyone. (they even have Ohio State stuff for your guy friends.)

This Thursday evening March 11th, Root Candles at West liberty (623 West Liberty Street, Medina) is hosting a Ladies Night Spring Sale Preview Party. Special savings on candles and other giftables. Light refreshments and drinks to be served.

grey cardigan celebrates spring weddings (03/12)

2010-03-08T16:06:00.003-05:00

Friday, March 12th, 2010

Celebrate Spring. Celebrate Love. Celebrate Engagements, Showers and Weddings.

This Friday, celebrate the unveiling of the new Grey Cardigan "Something Borrowed, Something Grey" print collection by artist Brian Jasinski. His work is refreshing, youthful and sassy with a sense of humor twist.

Anyone getting married in your life? These pieces would make a delightful gift for any of the many wedding infused occasions. No standard Bed Bath & Beyond Prints for the newlyweds pad...only the best will do. :)

See you there!

Tremont Art Walk (3/12)

2010-03-08T12:10:00.003-05:00

Friday, March 12th, 2010

This Friday is the monthly Tremont Art Walk. All of the cool boutiques, gallery's, culinary shops and sweet eats stay open later than usual to celebrate the neighborhood and this week...the coming of spring.

One of this weeks highlights to the Art Walk would be the special tasting at Lilly's Handmade Chocolates.

From 12pm-10pm they will be hosting a tasting featuring Mad Dogs & Englishmen ($3.50 per taste paired with a truffle), a Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz/Monastrell blend and Pinkus Organic Hefe-Weizen ($2.50 per taste paired with a truffle), a crisp, light beer.

I know where I want to kick off my walk...where will you start yours?

Ohio City Pasta Review #2

2010-03-04T09:59:00.003-05:00

So, If you remember back in January I set some goals or pseudo resolutions for myself as a resident of Northeast Ohio. I planned to see the Symphony, take a tour of the Mansfield State Penitentiary and taste test every flavor of Ohio City Pasta known to man. I’m making baby steps and checking things off my list...

The other evening I made the best dinner, Pumpkin Ravioli courtesy of Ohio City Pasta. I browned some butter (I didn’t say it was low fat.) tossed in some walnuts added the boiled Pumpkin Ravioli and topped the dish off with chopped granny smith apples and a shaving of Parmesan cheese. The dish was decadent and perfect for a chilly winter evening.

Hmmm...wonder what flavor will be next? I’m thinking the goat cheese, but with the onset of spring perhaps an asparagus, lobster or crab might sway my decision.

(I never posted about it officially but in February I whipped up the ratatouille raviolis with a red sauce and grilled chicken, Cest Manifique!)

old OHIO license plate

2010-03-03T09:28:00.002-05:00

I like these old license plates. Clean. Simple. Straight to the point.
(no rolling hills, farms, city skylines, etc.)

Shopping @ NEXT

2010-03-01T06:14:00.000-05:00

Hello and happy Monday Cleveland!

Last week was a whirlwind of fun and activity around town. Were you able to get to TEDX CLE last friday? If not, make sure to keep your eye out for next years event. Super inspiring and exciting happenings all around the CLE>

Also pretty fun... a few weeks ago I was invited to be part of an after work shopping spree courtesy of the store NEXT located in Beachwood Place. When I was originally invited, I thought to myself...the hip hop urban store that i usually stroll past as I escape Nordstrom's on a perfume sample high? Yep...that be the one.

(sneakers, Allison & pal)

Last tuesday night a bunch of us gathered to spend our loot on many unexpected finds...WAY more than graffiti tees...now I know. From fancy party dresses, to sleek sandals, studded bracelets to chic leather coats, scarves and sorbet colored sneakers...there really is more to NEXT than I ever knew.

(studs, Amelia & Michelle)

The sales staff was incredibly helpful. They knew what piece would flatter what figure. What ran small and what was a great buy for your dollar. Just returning from a big women's fashion buying trip, they spilled the beans that florals are going to be the "IT" thing this spring. The staff couldn't have been more accommodating to those of us who had never shopped their before.

(watches & Alexa)

I was thrilled when I scored a new fluorescent green G-Shock watch as well as two really great tops. Seriously cleveland ladies & gents...next time you are in the mood for some true boutique shopping, don't forget NEXT...it really impressed me.

(girls of NEXT & my new watch)

winter animal attractions

2010-02-25T16:30:00.002-05:00

Hello all you lucky Clevelanders. Don’t you just love that they are forecasting tons of the fluffy white stuff this weekend? I do! Everything will look so pretty like it’s covered in butter cream frosting and sparkly sugar...perhaps the last time for sledding or a snow-lady or getting all geared up in your best polar bear ski attire. EMBRACE THE SNOW! (but don’t forget to fill those birds feeders for our little feathered friends)

My dog is so funny in the snow, he hesitantly places each paw on top of the accumulation as if his next step will be his last. The best is when it has rained and turned to ice OVER the snow and he attempts to glide across it but instead gets stuck in a “snow sink hole,” I digress...

Speaking of dogs (or birds or polar bears) there are some very fun animal inspired events going on around town this weekend...so shovel out your driveway, bundle up the kids (or dogs) and get going.

Lake Erie Monsters invite you to pad up and bring your pup to Sundays hockey game against the Grand Rapids Griffins. Your ticket will cost $15, but your dog’ $5 will go directly to the Cleveland APL. I wonder if my little pup would like a beer and a pretzel on Sunday afternoon? (of course, he eats wood dust and fuzz) He sure would look cute in skates!

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is hosting Breakfast with the Birds on Saturday morning from 8-noon. If you don’t have a bird feeder you can learn to make one there. Want to explore the snowy outdoors? Bring your binoculars for a bird hike. If nothing else check out their live birds of prey show. And if all this activity makes you hungry, they will be serving all you can eat pancakes, sausage & applesauce, no need to eat like bird there. Call 216.321.5935 to pre-register.

Growing up my dad gave my mom this really cute Gmund Polar Bear stuffed animal that used to sit on their bed (insert cute “Aww” sound), myself and my sisters used to love to crawl into their bed and play with it, I think we enjoyed it more than my mom...another tangent...Did you know that real living polar bears (not the little stuffed ones) are indicators of our ecosystem? They are. Join Geoff York, senior program officer for polar bear conservation w/the World Wildlife Fund TOMORROW, Friday the 26th from 7-9pm when he speaks at Happy Days Lodge (500 W Streetsboro Rd in Peninsula.)

So if your feeling cooped up inside you home and need to get out...grab your real animal, your stuffed animal of your binoculars and explore! Enjoy.

Prep School (2 spots left!)

2010-02-23T12:49:00.003-05:00

Gatherings Kitchen is now offering a more skill focused cooking series called Prep School.

Always wanted to study to be a chef? The series is sure to touch on knife skills, baking, stocks, sauces and more. This series would give you a good taste, an intro to some of the lingo and basics. Sign up today as there are only 2 post s left for the first series which starts on March, 2nd. For more the menu and more details click here.

Winter Fun (2/27)

2010-02-23T11:26:00.001-05:00

Looks like chilly winter fun. Bundle up and head outdoors.

For more information, visit britewintercleveland.wordpress.com

lights. camera. action.

2010-02-21T21:33:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday Cleveland! What a great Northeast Ohio weekend we had. Bright blue skies. Sunshine. Time with our closest friends. Good food. A drink..or two. A movie. A trip to the market. What did you do this weekend?

Is anyone as excited as I am about the 34th Annual Cleveland Film Fest? Did you know the film line up is available online and the little paper schedule books will begin circulating end of this week?

When I get my hands on one of the paper movie line ups I will make myself a pot of french press or pour myself a good glass of vino and begin my movie attack. From french foreign flicks to an eye-opening documentary. A romantic comedy to something a bit educational. I like to try and take in as many films while still being able to decipher one from the other.

When you get your time to plan your movie attack, "film" me in on any recommendations. I can't wait to see you at the movies!

The Giving Z

2010-02-19T09:45:00.002-05:00

I try really hard not to forward emails, or link other sites to the blog, or copy someone else's thoughts or emotions, but with that said, this story by John Krolik (Cavs blog) was incredibly moving and poignant and I couldn't help but forward it for your Friday reading.

First published in 1964, the Shel Silverstein book, The Giving Tree is about a relationship between a boy and a tree...this new story is about a basketball player, his team and his city.

"Once there was a Z….

And he was drafted by a crappy team.

And every day the team would come

and he would score them baskets in the post

and find his teammates with sharp passes

and they would run the offense through him

and ask him to win games

and even after his feet were hurt

he came back

and he made the All-Star game.

And the team loved the Z

very much.

And the Z was happy....."

For the rest of the story click here.

Mr. Krolik, that was incredible. Nice work. "Z," we wish you the best of luck...but secretly hope you can forgive our city and come back soon. :)

film classics & egg benedict

2010-02-18T21:08:00.003-05:00

Sunday, February 21st, 2010

This Sunday kicks off the first in the Sunday Classics at the Capitol Theatre - Brunch & Movie Series

Come to the Capitol Theatre at 10 am for a screening of the vintage classic of An American In Paris followed by Sunday brunch at LUXE Kitchen. Gene Kelly stars in director Vincent Minelli's 1951 classic musical that won 6 Oscars including Best Picture...I can't believe I have NEVER seen it yet?

The Capitol Theatre is launching its Sunday Classics Brunch & Movie Series. See a different classic film, each month and then enjoy brunch at their partnering restaurant immediately after the film.

The Brunch/Movie Package tickets are $25 ($5 for just the movie) and reservations must be made via phone M-F between 9:00 and 5:00. Please call 440.349.3306 ext. 111 to make your brunch reservation. Call today!

old cleveland map

2010-02-17T07:31:00.001-05:00

I just found this and couldn't wait to share...LOVE how old it is.

make your reservation

2010-02-17T07:09:00.004-05:00

because next week is Cleveland Restaurant Week!

Get yourself a group of friends or ask your best friend to dinner, pick your place and then get out and support our local independent restaurants.

Never been to Mr. Symon's Lola's? This is such a great opportunity to take in the gorgeous atmosphere and the tasty food for only $30 for your entire meal. Looking for something more intimate for two, D'Vine wine bar is offering a $30 deal for two people, wine additional.

Reserve now, times are filling up fast!

Did you know?

2010-02-15T07:48:00.004-05:00

That in 1902, a resident of Akron, Ohio, Martin F. Christensen, invented an automated machine that could manufacture glass marbles. Traditionally, workers made marbles by hand from clay or stone, including marble. Christensen's invention made glass-marble production an entirely automated process. Christensen established the M.F. Christensen and Son Company in Akron to produce the thousands of colored balls of glass.

While the Akron factory does not still produce marbles, you can still visit the American Toy Marble Museum located in downtown Akron. Free and open to the public. With thousands of marbles to look at I'm sure you'll find your favorite Aggie or Boulder. Throw the family in the car, take a thirty minute road trip south for a few hours of fun.

happy hearts weekend

2010-02-12T00:45:00.004-05:00

happy hearts day cleveland.

I hope everyone has a wonderful sweet winter weekend. Lots of love... i heart cleveland, i know you do too!

I found this image at leloveimage.blogspot.com

this & that

2010-02-10T08:41:00.002-05:00

This week I have been sharing some images from my excursions around town, last weekend.

I mentioned the Salvation Army on Euclid and East 55th as one of my top places to score a deal. Check out their in-store signage, very vague as to what their selling, but the perfect directional signage for those of us looking for a unique find. I love the drippy white paint over the older orange walls.

Someone had a great suggestion that from here on out, when i find something to post that doesn't quite have obvious headline, I should name it "this & that," I think that's a terrific idea...stay tuned for more of "this & that."

Happy Wednesday Cleveland. Stay warm!

Another tricky pic!

2010-02-09T06:20:00.003-05:00

I had so much fun around town over the weekend snapping pics along my snowy Cleveland morning...
Do you know where I was here?

I'll give you a few hints, you guess...

#1) It's located on the West side
#2) It's home to many fish, fruits & veggies
#3) It is open every week, but only certain days of the week

Ever been there?

Where in Cleveland?

2010-02-08T06:37:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend I spent some time driving around enjoying the snow fall and chilly winter weather. It's amazing how things sometimes look different with a fresh coating of fallen snow.

I drove by this old E.B. Brown Opticians painted building mural and couldn't resist asking you, do you know where this mural is?

I was driving to my favorite thrift store (Salvation Army on Euclid & 55th) and the mural was on 30th and Danford (between Superior & Payne)

I love old murals, vintage cleveland, painting and more...this find was AWESOME!

Weekend fun!

2010-02-04T18:12:00.004-05:00

Living in Cleveland there is always SO MUCH to do when it comes to planning my weekends. Some people might think there is nothing going on, but I beg to differ, I can barely squeeze in a load of laundry with all the super fun activities that are going on...

> Swoosh, woosh and fly like a bird...well almost! (Tobogganing is fun!)

> Indulging in a plethera of sale coupons

> A nibble of Strawberries & Pink Champagne AND a bite of MSC Fluff

> A sale and some “pleasing” snack with RS

> A dance with my dog!!!

> Get my “bollywood” on!

> Making a birdie sling with some fabulous friends.

> Supposedly there is a big football game on?

What will you be doing this weekend? Celebrating family & friends? Shopping for a fancy dress? Sipping a hot toddy or two? Fill me in on what I am missing!

Vote for Grey Cardigan!

2010-02-02T07:45:00.000-05:00

okay Cleveland...time to step up and VOTE for a local favorite!

My friend, fellow designer and emerging illustrator has made it to the (almost) big leagues...let's make sure we vote for his design on Threadless.com and see too it that Brian's Design (one of his precious Grey Cardigan prints) gets national top score this week! It would be great to nab up a few of the shirts for fun guy pal summer birthdays...don't you think?

Go Brian, we are so proud of you for following your vision and sharing your talents. You are a inspiration to many. Now Cleveland...VOTE HERE!

REMINDER...DISCOUNT Jump Back Ball Coupon Code

2010-02-02T05:07:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder you have TODAY ONLY to use your I heart Cleveland code to get the TODAY ONLY discounted ticket rate of $135.

Just use the Jump Back Ball coupon code of "HEART" (before end of day, February 2nd) when purchasing your tickets and you will receive the discounted rate! Sweet...you can use the extra cash to buy your date an elaborate corsage...HA!

Groundhog, Greenhouse Brew (02/02)

2010-02-01T05:16:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

Hello & happy Monday!

Hope you had a fun-filled Cleveland weekend, mine was nice...lots of rest and relaxation. Though it was sunny, boy was it cold...brrrr....

Wonder how long this winter will last? Will it "spring up" late March? Will the snow coat the ground till April? Well...wait no longer, tomorrow is Ground Hog Day. According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring.

Either way, there is gonna be a party at the Greenhouse Tavern to celebrate the furry "weatherman" prediction AND their new beer release that they crafted at Buckeye Brewery. Stop by after work for a pint of the "Groundhog, Greenhouse Brew!" I'll be there, will you?

Happy sparkly weekend!

2010-01-29T09:51:00.004-05:00

Another chilly winter weekend in Cleveland...how I love how shiny the world is with a little coating of ice. My friend Henry once said that I must have been a crow in a past life as I am constantly attracted to anything glittery, sparkly or shimmery...so needless to say, a dusting of light snow makes my heart skip a beat!

Although this weekend is predicted to be an extra cold one, there are many activities to keep us indoors all warm and cozy. around town. I'm going to try and hit a few of these hot spots this last weekend in January...can you believe it's almost February?

A new season at MOCA means an Opening Night Celebration. Art. Music. A killer gift shop!

A drink with the new Dante.

Arabesques, padashas and pliés at Playhouse Square featuring the Bill T. Jones & Arnie Zane Dance Company

Hot Haitian Nights....a Benefit to Help Rebuild Haiti Saturday night at the Speakeasy (under the Beer Market) 8pm. $10 suggested donation to benefit Habitat for Humanity International and their efforts to help the people of Haiti rebuild their lives.

Two games are better than one! (Cavs play tonight AND Sunday!)