Another tricky pic!

I had so much fun around over the weekend snapping pics along my 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?

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!

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!

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

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)

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!

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!)

Ravioli Review #1

One of my "to-do's" for this year was to explore each flavor of Ohio City Pastas Raviloi's.

A few weekends ago I was faced with "where do I start?" Each little pasta package looked so yummy and exciting. My mouth watered in anticipation. I could start with the richness of lobster or crab or I could begin with something a bit basic and work up from there.



I bought a dozen of smoked mozzarella raviolis-not basic in the least-and had the perfect Sunday night supper. They were robust yet fragile, smoky and rich like an aged bottle of wine, yet simple and lovely paired with a basic pea shoot salad. Quick to cook, these ravioli's get a ten out of ten!

1 down...many many more to go!

Snow surf!

They are predicting snow for Tuesday in Cleveland. With that said, it could snow, be sunny, rain, be foggy or all of the above.

To some of us the winter snow hinders our morning jogs, keeps us in bed those extra fifteen minutes, warrants an extra large latte rather than the daily grande.



To these guys, winters in Cleveland equals the perfect surfing weather. Jeff Sierputowski’s photos of a group of surfer dudes gave me chills but then I thought...how COOL is that?



You may not want to dunk yourself in our fair Lake Erie at this time of year, but try and get outdoors, bundle up, breathe the brisk air and imagine if YOU picked up winter surfing as next years hobby!

Cavs (1/25)

It's CAVS time!

On Thursday we watched Lebron and Shaq crush Kobe. On Saturday we bit our nails as the final score totalled 100 to 99. Let's see what those Cavs can do tonight in Miami?



Game time is at 7:30. Tune in!

a hot sign.

I don't know if it's the sunshine or the excitement of the big Cavs game tonight but something is stirring in the air.



I found this fun, bright and cheery image off of an amazing flickr account filled with nothing but vintage signage images from all over Ohio plus.

Enjoy the sunny day. Get psyched to root on our team...Go Cavs Go!

Dyed in Cleveland

While over the holidays I caught the "must buy yarn bug." No, I don't knit or crochet (I can't take on ANY new hobbies as of late) but I saw this very fun braided scarf at one of the holiday bazaar's and thought...I can make that!

As I was searching for the perfect yarn for my upcoming project I came across this wonderful shop on Etsy...come to find out the yarn is inspired by the sellers travels outside of Cleveland but the actual yarn spinning and dying process happens right here in Northeast Ohio!



All you yarn aficionados take a look at Destination Yarn...way to go Cleveland entrepreneurs!

Yoga for foodies (2/17)

Wednesday, February 17th, 2009

Do you like to downward dog or happy baby? What about sprouts and goat cheese? Well, then I have a perfect evening out for you.



Join David Romanelli (chocolate & yoga originator) for an evening of yoga at the downtown hot spot, Greenhouse Tavern. After the class is over, float downstairs for a family feast of farm to table yummies.

I posted this early because spaces are filling up fast. David is an amazing teacher, has wonderful music selections and is light and fun in his teachings....and we all know how much we LOVE Chef Sawyers eggs & fries...wonder if that is good to eat after yoga? :)

Dreaming of ski fashions

Sometimes I wish I wrote a fashion or design blog.

I peruse various national blogs and the inspiration to my real daily work is usually influenced by the next best shoe designer, the art exhibit in Tokyo or that new cafe in Paris.

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE, lust, yearn to write about Cleveland...but today I want to take the opportunity to write about something that has recently been on my mind...something that I can't seem to get enough of, I love the colors, the sick patterns, the techie cuts, it's all very alpine chic...let's talk about ski clothes!

I was on the Boston Mills and Brandywine site the other evening, did you know that you can take a lesson (ski or board), rents equipment and get a lift pass for only $39 as part of their Sunday Super Saver promotion? That alone deserves new mittens and fancy boots, don't you think?

So, I decided to put together that perfect ski-bunny outfit in hopes to hit some "after Christmas Sales" at some of the area ski & sport retailers including Geiger's (free coupon for ski or snowboard hot wax here!) or Village Snow for these latest in winter aprés fashions.

What do you think? Like my winter fun, make believe outfit? Do you have the perfect puffy-coat you want to recommend? Seen any great Thinsulate® sales lately? I'd love to know where the deals are....fill me in!



Torah Bright Jacket by Roxy. A great base layer zip up from Athleta.Tivoli Boots by Sorel. Bootleg ski pants by North Face. Smith "Catwalk" Sunglasses (the name alone and I want them!) A snug little beanie by Spacecraft. a pair of Burton Profile Mitts..they are guys, I would just buy an Xsmall. :)

Warm. Winter. Weekend.

After a winter whirlwind of a week I am looking to Cleveland for weekend fun. It’s supposed to be warm so the snow will melt a bit, perfect wellie weather...get outside, wear your sunglasses, soak up the cool sunshine. Enjoy.

Here is what’s on my tentaive weekend “agenda” ...what’s on yours?



> A wild after party (because I couldn’t get tickets to the big show?)

> a trip to the Market for ...Ohio City Pasta (and apricots for baking)

> Unique Thrift has a sale...until 1:00pm

> a bit of Eric Carle at Playhouse Square

> a 4-5pm free spinning class

> a late night night happy dinner

> go CAVS!!!

> Perogies for breakfast

photo by medalie

donate & win!

My friend Michelle of Cleveland Foodie has recently posted a wonderful opportunity for her readers and I just wanted to make sure everyone knew about it.

To support the Culinary Vegetable Institute, Veggie U, and area Cleveland City Schools, Michelle is requesting a minimum donation of $5 for the opportunity to win a slew of gift cards to many area restaurants, including Greenhouse, Parallax, L'Albatros and more!

This is a wonderful opportunity to take a chance and donate to a yummy cause. Thanks Michelle for your enthusiastic and educational post. We heart you!

Read and enter here!

Sci-Fi Movie Marathon (1-15/17)

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 15th through the 17th, 2010.

Long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away... In the early 1970's, there were several film groups on the Case Western Reserve campus. These groups had formed because of interest in different genres of movies. Along the way, the groups merged and formed the basis of the current CWRU Film Society.

This weekend pack your backpack, Red Bull, sleeping bags and tooth brush and go to the Science Fiction Marathon. This weekend of approx 36 hrs of back to back science fiction movies, trailers, and surprises was started in 1976 and is attended by CWRU students, the Cleveland community, and people from out of state and from other countries.



The movie schedule is as follows...
Friday
8:00pm Terminator Salvation (2009)
10:15pm Moon (2009)

Saturday
12:00am The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005)
2:00am SURPRISE I
3:30am First Spaceship on Venus (1962)
5:15am Independence Day (1996)
8:00am Moonraker (1979)
10:15am Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
12:45pm The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)
2:45pm Short Circuit (1986) (JOHNNY 5 is ALIVE!!!)
4:30pm SURPRISE II
6:15pm The Phantom Planet (1961)
7:45pm The Fifth Element (1997)
10:00pm The City of Lost Children (1995)

Sunday
12:00am SURPRISE III
2:00am District 9 (2009)


For all of the details including parking visit the CWRU Film Society site.

Want to be famous?

The Cleveland InternationalFilm Festival would like to invite you to participate in the production of the promotional trailer for the 34th Film Festival.

I guess, after the turnout for last year's production, they realized how many Clevelanders wanted to be involved. This year, they invite you to participate by telling them your story. They will select some of you to be filmed for the promotional trailer and all entries will be showcased on thier website, blog, and in other social media.

So, tell them, how would you complete the following sentence:

(your opening here)...because of the Cleveland International Film Festival.

Wouldn't it be fun? Remember last years trailer?

New Year, New Art!

I came across this business the other day and LOVE some of their illustrations, take a peek!



"Cleveland is one of the great unsung American cities. Certainly a large part of the industrial backbone that made this the greatest country in the world. There are so many landmarks and historical aspects of Cleveland that are beautiful and worth a second look. With your support we hope to do many more such matchbooks and posters. Let us know if you have a great subject you'd like to see. Thanks, The Management at The Great Lakes Match Co."

Hometown Writers Movie Picks.

The Golden Globes are quickly approaching, ten more days to be exact. I always love this season when I try to squeeze in as many of the nominated films as possible, although my intake of twizzlers and popcorn and is a bit overboard right now, I am trying to get a handle on it.

Although not all nominated for "Best Performance by an Actor," Clint O'Connor of the Plain Dealer wrote a great run down on what HIS favorite top 10 movies of 2009. I think it was a great article and I couldn't resist passing it along!

Top 10 movies of 2009: Frequent fliers, troubled teens, blue aliens, political screams. By Clint O'Connor, The Plain Dealer

The 3-D revolution raged in 2009, evolving from visual gimmick to movie staple.

"Up," "Monsters vs. Aliens," "My Bloody Valentine," and "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" burst through screens to slap us in the face with brighter, sharper digital images. My brain is still processing those little white floaty things fluttering around Pandora in James Cameron's 3-D "Avatar."

Cameron waited years for the technology to catch up to his vision, and it was worth it.

Michael Bay should have waited for a good script to catch up with to his robots in "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen." The drab "Transformers" sequel did score in the green dimension, however, topping the box office with more than $402 million. It needed to make a bundle, because it cost about $200 million to produce.

Conversely, Oren Peli made the scary "Paranormal Activity" for a paltry $15,000. It has pocketed $107 million at last count.

Despite the putrid economy, the Cleveland International Film Festival set glowing attendance records, proving Clevelanders love their movies. Especially if they're dark, weird, and foreign. Cleveland's Capitol Theatre, shuttered for 24 years, reopened as a sparkling three-theater digital palace. A victory for community partnerships and the West Side.

Sandra Bullock wins performer of the year honors for knocking out three films: "The Proposal," "All About Steve," and "The Blind Side." The latter is still going strong in theaters. Bullock expertly plays real-life force-of-nature Leigh Anne Tuohy, the Memphis woman who took in a homeless teenager in crisis and helped set his life on a strong course. A worthy deed in any dimension.

1. "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire," directed by Lee Daniels. Brutal, harsh, harrowing. Daniels' documentary-like style lent the story of an abused teenaged girl a realism that gets inside your heart and stays there. Gabourey Sidibe's stunning performance as Precious was backed by unforgettable turns from Mo'Nique, Mariah Carey and Paula Patton.

2. "In the Loop," directed by Armando Iannucci. Savvy, sharp-edged political satire about a verbal gaffe that sends Middle East policy spinning. Iannucci's quick, two-camera shooting technique lent his fast-talking cast a comic immediacy that juiced the laugh-out-loud moments.

3. "Fantastic Mr. Fox," directed by Wes Anderson. The most painstaking process -- stop-motion animation -- was the perfect format for presenting Roald Dahl's children's story. Anderson's best film, with nifty voice work from George Clooney and Meryl Streep.

4. "Up in the Air," directed by Jason Reitman. Refreshingly smart and funny (and highly relevant in our downsizing cooperate-controlled world). George Clooney, Vera Farmiga, and Anna Kendrick have a ball with their roles. And so do we.

5. "Avatar," directed by James Cameron. It's not a movie, it's an experience. Cameron creates an entire world complete with its own language and culture, and lifts the medium of film to a new technological level.

6. "Me and Orson Welles," directed by Richard Linklater. One of the best and least appreciated American directors, Linklater spins a marvelously entertaining tale of Welles (Christian McKay) and his blustery brilliance at the Mercury Theatre in 1937.

7. "Inglourious Basterds," directed by Quentin Tarantino. Brad Pitt shines in this elaborate Jewish-revenge fantasy about the Nazis and World War II. Pitt's speech recruiting potential killers is a classic Tarantino talkie torrent.

8. "The Hangover," directed by Todd Philips. Somehow Philips and screenwriters Jon Lucas and Scott Moore managed to take the most overdone premise (a wild bachelor party in Las Vegas) and make a fresh and funny film.

9. "The Hurt Locker," directed by Kathryn Bigelow. The non-stop intensity of a bomb squad in Iraq is highlighted by Jeremy Renner's gutsy performance as Staff Sgt. Will James. When an officer asks what's the best way to dismantle bombs, James responds, "The way you don't die, sir."

10. "A Serious Man," directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. The care and detail devoted to even the most minor of characters sets the Coens apart yet again as they investigate the meaning of life in Minnesota, circa 1967.


Thanks Clint!!!! I agree on many of your pics...I still have a few I want to see including Precious, Inglourious Basterds and Me and Orson Welles.

a funny local find

Over the holidays while shopping at a few of my favorite Northeast Ohio boutiques (Room Service & Stash Style) I came across this"colorful" greeting card line. They are a bit sassy, a bit surreal and they are the creative brainchild of Cuyahoga Falls resident Candra Squire.



I bought a 10-pack of "Car Cards" each include a little saying about those horrific drivers we all know and love to hate. One of the cards says "That's cool dude, I don't really like being able to open my car doors anyway." and another says "I saw you beating your kids a*s and I just wanted you to know I taped it and put it on youtube." I will tuck them into my glovebox for the next run in with an oversized SUV that infringes upon my parking space.

To see some of Candras other cards and novelties, visit her etsy shop but be warned, they are all sorta rated "PG-13" to "R." I laughed a bunch!

2010 Cleveland "to-do"

Hello all!

Welcome back to iheartcleveland. Hope everyone had an amazing holiday season. I know I did. I am rested, relaxed and ready to rock and roll as we dive into this new year.

As I was thinking about what my first post of the year should be I started thinking about all the things I have always wanted to do, but somehow never have. Take a look at my list and feel free to let me know what your 2010 Cleveland resolutions are!



my cleveland "to-do-taste-see" 2010 resolutions list

Go to the Orchestra
I have been to Severance Hall for a gorgeous wedding once, but I have never seen the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra play. This year I want to experience the magic of the talented area musucians. Can't wait! In the meantime I may enjoy one of the free tours that are being offered on Sunday January 10th. For more information visit their website, reservations recommended.

Get to know Malleys
Ever wondered how they make the 3 foot Easter bunnies and the millions of luscious Buckeyes? This year I'd love to get a group of fellow choco-holics together for a trip to the 60,000 square feet of chocolate fantasy at the Malleys Chocolate Tour. The tour is self-guided and best of all it's free! Anyone interested?

Celebrate the Jump Back Ball
I've always heard the buzz but I've never attended the massive party explosion called the Jump Back Ball. This year I plan to don my feathers and sequins and celebrate Carnival (this years theme) with my fellow arts supporters. I hear tickets are going fast...so get yours today...then we can all party together!

Ghost Hunt
Ever since I've moved to North East Ohio over ten years ago, I've been tempted to take a walk through the old Ohio State Reformatory at Mansfield. For those of you who know me, I'm not one for blood or guts, but the idea of ghosts is a bit intriguing. Did you know you can go on a ghost hunt year round in Mansfield? Spooky!

Ride the path
I love to ride my bike. I love to ride my road bike down Lake Ave, fast. I love to tool around town in my Schwinn Cruiser with my sweet basket & coffee cup holder. I love to ride my mountain bike through the muddy metroparks in spring. This past fall a friend of mine and I got to sample parts of the towpath, this year, I would love to start on one end and make it all the way to the end...tackle the towpath! Time to look for a new helmet. :)

Get schooled in Beer
I've drank an Elliott Ness, I've snacked on a pub pretzel and recently I've enjoyed one too many Christmas Ales...but as an Ohio resident I feel I should have a better understanding of the happenings and beer types at or our world famous Great Lakes Brewing Co. I think this is the year I'll make it a point to attend a free brewery tour, a tasting or a brewmasters dinner to enhance my palette and enjoy those porters and pale ales to the fullest.

Spend the day at the fair
I post about it every year. Every August I crave funnel cakes and corn dogs. I dream of the biggests blueberry pie and adorable pot belly pigs. This year I promise myself I am going to spend an afternoon at the Cuyahoga County Fair. Perhaps I can get one of you to come with me...if you're up for it, perhaps we can even dress alike..everyone's doing it. :)

Get spooked at the Zoo
I don't have children so there really should be no real reason why I want to spend my afternoon navigating my way through the sea of strollers at the Cleveland Metroparks annual event...Boo at the Zoo. I don't know if I am drawn to the idea of elephants and monkeys in costume or an entire bag of candy corn that i can destroy as I watch the lions, tigers and bears devour their haunted treats. This year I really want to go to the fun alternative to average neighborhood haunting, who wouldn't want to go to an event with candy "Stations?"

Tour of Pasta
If you've ever been to the Westside Market on a saturday morning then you've seen the confetti colored Ohio City Pasta's whimsical little raviolis. Every time I go to buy some I have such a hard decision what flavor to choose...SO, this year I plan on working my way through the glass case and savoring each little pasta creation one flavor at a time. Perhaps a few a month..I'll keep you posted! Any recommendations which ones to start with?

merry & happy to you!

Hello Clevelanders!

I am taking a few holiday days off to visit with family and friends but I wanted to make sure to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and happy new year. Enjoy your time off with friends, eat lots of cookies, sip some nog and get lots of rest.



xoxo
i heart cleveland

Peaceful holiday weekend.

Well folks, where has December gone? As I grow older I realize how the term "time flies" is so very true. One day it's the 4th of July and the next is Christmas. I mean don't get me wrong, I've cherished each gingerbread man and peppermint stick...I've mixed and mingled. I've indulged in sweets and savory treats. I've stayed up late painting the town red. All the while...jingling all the way.

But with all this said..I'm ready for a weekend of peaceful holiday cheer. I'm one of those lucky few to be done shopping, all wrapped and shipped and now I get to enjoy the reason for the season.



A few things that are on my non-crazy holiday weekend MAY include...
- Wearing my "caterer-friend" hat and working a swanky holiday party with Cleveland's richy rich.

- An impromptu brunch with ELEVEN really great women.

- A sampling of fine cheese and wines at Baricelli Inn.

- If I realize I forgot someone on my list, maybe a stop into the Last Minute Market at the Lake Erie Screw Factory.

- Perhaps dinner "Christmas Story Style" at Touch...including Peking Duck.

- A bit of caroling with the Ohio City Singers at Happy Dog.

- Sunday jazz brunch with artists and friends at Flying Fig

- Maybe I'll even go see Santa to sit on his lap and let him know that for Christmas this year all I really want is a glittering of snow and peace of mind in the new year...okay, and maybe a sweater or two from J.Crew! :)

Happy holiday weekend to all and to all a good night.

Cleveland Greeting....cards

The USPS is a happening place these days, but there is still time to drop that special someone a holiday greeting. Didn't stop to pick up cards the moment they hit the shelves? Look to these Cleveland designers to help you find that perfect card for your special someone.



oddballpress is based in Cleveland these cards are elegant with a twist. You can find them on their Etsy page or at Paper Trails, Room Service, Shoparooni or Sobella.

Designer Sara of Small Screen designs makes whimsy greetings of puppies and french iconocgraphy...perfect for all your gal pals...why not tuck a gift card for a afternoon glass of wine or mani-pedi into one of these, what an AWESOME gift. You can also find Small Screens on Etsy as well as Music Saves and Vanity Lab.

Another Cleveland favorite would be Claire Mojher. By day Claire creates for American greetings but she also produces many unique designs for her Etsy customers. Check out her Winter Bear Series.

What Cleveland Wants for Christmas

A few weeks ago I sent out a request to some area bloggers, business owners and personalities asking them what they wanted under their tree on Christmas morning. Thank you to the many emails I received, I really appreciate you sharing with us!

See their spirited answers below...



Michelle V. : Cleveland Foodie
“I want a night away with my husband, maybe something local like gambling in Detroit coupled with dinner at Roast and then to sleep in past 6 a.m., something I haven’t done since I had my daughter. Plus, I wish Clevelanders would skip chains in the New Year and make a conscious effort to eat and support local.”

Mark Nolan : Anchor on Channel 3 News Today
“I just turned 40 (which I’m told is the new 30) so, I’ve become more and more nostalgic over the past few years. I think a simple light snowfall, no “Black Friday”/”Cyber Monday”, no holiday traffic, lots of sleigh bells ringin’ type Christmas would be just fine for me. I just want quiet. Lots of smiles from friends as I pass along the perfect gift. That’s what I want… Here’s Hopin.’ Merry Christmas!”

Tammy Lyons : yogi & owner of Inner Bliss Yoga
“My wishes for all this holiday season... A little more forgiveness...a little less anger. A little more faith...less hopelessness. A little more love...less fighting. More listening and less defending. More Love, More Joy, and a vibrant, white holiday!”

Danielle Deboe : owner of Room Service & Made in the 216.
Cooking lessons....one on one weekly cooking lessons! I do not think that anything less...say a class scenario or a monthly lesson would actually stick....and of course, in this dream scenario, I would also have the time, to do a weekly cooking lesson...but alas, a girl can dream can't she!

Amanda “Lilly” Montague : creator of Lilly Handmade Chocolates
1. An Anti-Griddle so I could create fun, frozen molecular gastronomy confections 2. A traveling vacation to every craft brewery in the states! Dogfish, Stone, The Bruery, Great Divide, etc. 3. Another Pembroke Welsh Corgi for my lovely little Lucy to play with (she's a Pembroke Welsh Corgi too! One can never have too much love in their lives!) Happy Everything to Everyone!

Chris Allen : Musician
Since I can't see world peace anytime in the next several years, for Christmas I would like a weekend in Florence, Italy to forget that fact. The most beautiful city in the world, I would like to take a Saturday stroll walking the brick alley ways, view amazing works of art, sip a little wine and have a prosciutto and brie samwhich from a street vender.

Me : i heart cleveland
I’d like an old record player that I could bring to the beach in the summer and play old records while I soak up the Ohio sun! (Do they make old players with batteries?)

Cleveland...what do YOU want...tell me. We will post it...and then you can refer your family to the blog for your wish list! Sounds fun, right? :)

Chocolate & Art Walk (12/11)

Friday, December 11th, 2009

Looking for a night of good food, great art, and even better chocolate? Schedule time to swing by the December, Tremont Art Walk.




While you are perusing the galleries stop into Lilly's Chocolate for her special holiday flavors and "lilly barq."

Merry strolling, happy christmas cocktails, and joy to the chocolate! :)

Get your Santa On (12/12)

Saturday, December 12th, 2009

Ever wanted to dress up like Santa, but just don't have the extra time to spend your Saturday afternoons in the local mall? Time to steam and or febreeze your velvet and white fur costume for the Night of 1000 Santas...Cleveland Style!



Join the holiday bar crawl through the city's near West Side for a night of Christmas cheer.
The schedule (as it stands today) is as follows...
7:30 : Reddstone
8:30 : Parkview
9:30 : Happy Dog (no cover for Santa suit-wearers)
10:30 : Garage Bar
11:30 : Bier Market
12:30 : Touch (no cover for Santa suit-wearers) and dancing included.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Happy Santa and cocktails to everyone and to all a goodnight. :)

Bazaar Bizarre (12/12-13)

Saturday, December 12th, & Sunday, December 13th 2009

A yearly holiday shopping tradition, you won't want to miss this years Bizarre Bizarre! From wacky indie crafts, to the unique art of area locals...it's a great place to check off every gift on your list.



Dissatisfied with stencils of country ducks and painted wooden slices of watermelon, a hodge-podge of friends started the Bazaar Bizarre craft fair in Boston in 2001. years later this community based event is still growing in popularity and has now spread to Cleveland!

78th Street Studios: 1300 W. 78th St to 1305 W. 80th St., north parking lot, north entrance (behind the building) -- accessible from W. 78th OR W 80th St. Noon to 9:00 pm, and Sunday December 13th from noon to 6:00 pm.

Glog on the Blog

Happy Monday Cleveland!

Hope everyone enjoyed the cool winter weekend as much as I did. With my visitor in town I sure did pack a lot into the holiday weekend. One of the things I wanted to "report" on was this funky little drink I experienced at the Greenhouse Tavern..."Glog!"

Glog, defined in the dictionary as a "hot spiced wine and liquor punch and it is a delicious warming drink. Glog is a traditional drink of the Swedish & Finnish Advent season. Traditionally made with red wine, and each small glass has a few almonds and raisins in it as well as the drink. Glog's origins are with mulled wine - wine heated with spices. Glog also tends to have more sugar as well as a heavier alcohol content. It is said that Glog cures the common cold.



The bartenders at The Greenhouse were kind enough to show me how they made their new holiday drink. The drink is assembled using special house made glog mix & honey liquor, steamed and then accessorized with little golden raisins.

Be warned...I took a big sniff (from my brandy snifter) and wow...I thought I burned off my nose hairs...let's just say it's potent...in a good way! :)

I still can't 100% say I loved it, but I can't stop thinking about this potent hot toddy, so I guess it made an impression on me. Let me know what you think!

friend in town!

I am so excited the weekend is here!

My college roommate is in town from the big apple and I am always SO THRILLED to share with here the fun and fabulousness of the "land of Cleve!"



We have tons planned for the weekend, from good eats & swanky drinks to a Broadway show, holiday art fest, to a cruise with Santa, perhaps a walk in Ohio City, a light festival and maybe a rockin flea market!

There is so much to do here, I gotta run, let the weekend begin! Cheers. :)

Vintage Holiday

The other day I made a quick trip to one of the areas BEST vintage shops around, Flower Child. The holiday windows of old sleds and Xmas cheers drew me inside like a mosquito to a buzzing blue lantern.

Although I had expected to see a mirage of decorations of days gone by, I had no clue the intensity and overwhelming shimmer and glitz that was about to come before me.



The store is filled with every type of holiday decoration you can imagine. From vintage lights, holiday cocktail glasses, delicate glass bulbs, ornate holiday linens, something from the 40's, something from the 80's (see ET stockings!), a pink themed room, a green themed room, a candy cane and mistletoe room....whatever you holiday dreams they have the decorations for you.



This weekend will be a big "get ready for the holidays" weekend. Why not shop local and recycle the past by adding a touch of flair from Flower Child. BUT, be prepared...this store will suck up hours of time on the weekend, so wear comfy shoes and a good friend for hours of fun.

FYI, there is a Starbucks across the street in case you need a gingerbread jolt of energy to make it through the entire newly expanded basement of the store. Happy holidays!

Flower Child : 11508 Clifton Blvd, Cleveland OH 216.939.9933

Lime Ribbon Launch (12/07)

Monday, December 7th, 2009

Nothing to do on a Monday night besides hang out with Blair, Chuck and Serena? Plan on attending the launch party for the new Lime Ribbon! A new social media shopping site that allows you to create your own gift lists for you, your family and friends, and share those Lime "Ribbons" with your Facebook friends and Twitter followers. You'll be able to shop online at many different stores.

A NEO-based team of entrepreneurs, designers, marketers and idea people are inviting you to share in the celebration, log on and share.



LimeRibbon.com Launch Party $10 admission includes:
* Complimentary beer (Cash bar will also be available for wine &cocktails)
* Complimentary Spirited CROP Bistro & Bar Special Punch, tinted lime green in honor of the occasion!
* Raffle for two round-trip airline tix anywhere that AirTran Airways flies in the domestic USA!
* Hot hors d'oeuvres featuring: CROP’s savory Lamb Sliders, topped with blue cheese, pickled onions, fresh mint, and coarse-grain mustard, Assorted Flatbreads dressed with seasonal toppings, Veggie Kebabs with local, artisanal cheeses, Chef Steve Schimoler’s signature popcorn, capped with a tasty toss of sautéed veggies, shredded Asiago, and balsamic glaze

Crop bistro from 5:30-7:30, Warehouse District. at 1400 W. 6th Street

Get your tickets HERE!

Ride opening (12/04)

Friday, December 4th, 2009



ride. AN EXHIBITION OF CYCLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Spin is proud to present ride. AN EXHIBITION OF CYCLE PHOTOGRAPHY by RUSSELL LEE and featuring prints by GREY CARDIGAN. December 4th, 2009 thru January 2nd, 2010.

Opening reception Friday, December 4th, 6pm with award winning beer from Fathead's Brewery.

Frenemies (12/04)

Friday, December 4th, 2009

FREE yoga (12/5)

Saturday, December 5th, 2009

As an expression of gratitude to all of their students and the community… Inner Bliss Yoga Studio is delighted to offer a day of free yoga and more!!!

Come and enjoy one, two or more classes with your favorite teacher, bring friends! Come experience it for yourself!

GREAT Give Back Schedule of Classes
7:30-8:30 : HOT Powerful Flow with Shannon
9:00-10:00 : HOT Powerful Flow with Tammy, Dawn assisting
10:15-11:15 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Laura, Lanie assisting
11:30-12:30 : Powerful Flow with Lanie, ginny assisting
12:45-1:45 : Beginners Yoga with ginny
2:00-3:00 : Yoga Demonstration by your teachers!
3:15-4:15 : HOT Powerful Flow with Kristen
4:30- 5:30 : Powerful Flow with Kathy
5:45-6:45 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Jen, Kathy assisting

There is no pre-registration for classes on this day, just show up!

More Treats for YOU!
Lululemon Trunk Show from 10 am – 3 pm! (credit cards only, please)
Delicious Deals on Inner Bliss boutique threads!
Buy any class package and get a free class for a friend of your choice!

Trot Home Grand Opening (12/05)

Saturday, December 5th, 2009

There is a new kid in town...a new home decor destination that is celebrating their Grand Opening this Saturday. What could be more fun than an afternoon trip to downtown Peninsula to explore the new store, Trot Home, while you are there, visit Winking Lizard for a Christmas Ale or Cranberry-tini to kick off your holiday festivities!

I won't give you all the details because my friends over at Orange Beautiful posted the complete story and some great photos of the store, so make sure to read the entire article there.



I plan on visiting the store at some point from now until Christmas..a new lamp, a throw pillow, perhaps a reupholstered stool...you can never have too many! PLUS, if you visit THIS Saturday during the open house, Trot Home is offering a 10% discount, every penny counts!

Go Tyler from Ohio! (12/03)

So I have a few favorite “burgers” in Cleveland, who doesn’t? Some of them are tiny and (more) healthy and some topped with a fried egg and cheese and dripping with greasy goodness (Royal Red Robin Burger) just depends on my mood as to what I’ll order.

Word on the street has it that we North East Ohioans' are represented in this years Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, 4th Annual KIDS COOK OFF! Tyler from Mentor, Ohio has been selected as ONE of TEN finalists (11,00 entered!) to develop his own perfect burger creation.

Ten year old Tyler will compete with nine other kids from around the country on December 3rd in Denver Colorado. During the championship, the finalists will make their gourmet burgers for a panel of judges including Robin Miller, host of the Food Network’s “Quick Fix Meals with Robin Miller.” The winning gourmet burger will be sold in Red Robin restaurants in summer 2010 and featured in a kids’ cookbook available online.



To make sure Mentor brings home the WIN, VOTE for the online fan win by clicking here! Or cheer on Tyler during the competition which will be streamed live online at www.redrobin.com/kidscookoff on Thursday, Dec. 3, starting at 10:30 and see the grand-prize winner named in real time.

Go Tyler! Make us proud! (and if you win...will you make me an "Awesome Cordon Blue Burger?")

Give back

You are blessed.

Anyone who has time to squeeze in a blog read or two is blessed.

You have health. You have family & friends. And most likely each evening your heat is turned up to a toasty 68 degrees.

Every holiday season, it gets me thinking how lucky and blessed I am and how I could help those who aren't so lucky.

Have you ever worked at a soup kitchen? It really opens your eyes to how blessed you are. It awakens the compassionate soul and teaches you the idea of being so truly humble and grateful.




If you have always wanted to try to volunteer at a soup kitchen here are a few things you should consider....

1. Find out which soup kitchens are located in your area. Do a search online, look in the phone book, call information or ask your city or town clerk.

Some of the larger Cleveland area soup kitchens that need are....
> Zion Soup Kitchen (call 216.861.2371)
> St Malachi Center (call 216.771.3036)
> Trinity Cathedral (call 216.774.0425)
> Cleveland Catholic Charities (call 216.334.2961)

2. Contact a local soup kitchen and tell them you'd like to help.

3. Organize a group of people from your circle of friends, your neighborhood, work, your church or synagogue who are willing to volunteer on Thanksgiving.

4. Understand that the soup kitchen needs lots of help in other areas besides food service. Offer to pick up donations, do an inventory on them and store them away. You might also set up tables, prepare the food and help clean up after the meal is through.

5. Include your children in your efforts. This is a great way to teach them the importance of community service.

6. Consider making this a tradition in your family every year. Counting your blessings and helping people in need is a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving.


If you have other volunteer options or ideas please make a comment.

Pumpkins for Joe at the Zoo!