Cleveland Spynga

Do you like to sweat and cycle? Are you a yogi who enjoys a great stretch? There is a new studio in Coventry called Buddhaful Spin which incorporates both spinnng and yoga...it looks incredible.



I haven't personally been over to the studio yet, although it is on my to-do list. As an avid spinner and yoga lover, I am excited there is this new resource in Northeast Ohio. Explore their website, take a class, spin and stretch....Oooooommmmm.

AI Root.

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.

winter animal attractions

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.

Winter Fun (2/27)

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



For more information, visit britewintercleveland.wordpress.com

Did you know?

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.

Another tricky pic!

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?

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!

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!

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!

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? :)

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?

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.

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. :)

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

Thankful for the weekend!

I’m THANKFUL it’s the weekend. The weekend before the “Week of Thanks”... So many things to get done before December madness strikes!




Here is what I am planning to do...hope I can squeeze it all in.

Friday.
> Read a new Zine at Bella Dubby
> Eat some Ice Cream to celebrate the END of Tap! :)
> Listen to some great local tunes at made in the 216
> Party like a rock star.

Saturday
> Groom my little pup (shown at Thanksgiving in DC a few years ago)
> Fall in love with a Vampire..or a werewolf.
> Begin my holiday shopping list...(buying locally thanks to the reminder from Chef’s Widow!)
> Stop by the last farmers market of the season...or see the tree lighting?

Sunday
> Brush up on my manners (there are still a few spots left, call 440.247.2550 to sign up!)
> Explore the gardens & gingerbread creations
> FREE HENNA (with any cosmetic purchase) at Dillards in Beachwood...I am thinking a pumpkin, turkey and fall leaves for the Thanksgiving week?

Eat. Deal. Drink?

If you didn't get the memo...

IT"S CLEVELAND RESTAURANT WEEK!!! So get excited, go on out there and support your local foodie entrepreneurs. Whether it's a sweet little standby thats up the street from your house, or something a bit more swanky that you've always wanted to try.

From now until November 14th, enjoy a three course meal for only 30. Check out the list of the many participating establishments at clevelandindependents.com.

Personally, I am very excited to catch up with some of my dear gal pals this week at Crop Bistro. I don't go there often, but the Caprese Martini (Heirloom Tomato Infused Vodka, Basil, Balsamic Tomato, Mozzarella) is calling my name.



Restaurant week = a great excuse to try new places + support local businesses + catch up with your friends + drink a martini!

Startup Weekend (11/20-22)

Friday November 20th through Sunday November 22nd, 2009

Have a new business idea? Looking to make a "go" of it? Check this out!

"Startup Weekend" Cleveland is a 54 hour event to help launch a tech company. The goal of the weekend is to allow people with ideas for technology companies to meet up with a team of developers and business people to produce a business plan with a working prototype of the idea by 6:00pm Sunday.



Personally, I think this event is one of the coolest ideas I have seen in a while as the event is ALL ACTION, no talk. The winning team, (as voted on by people all over the country,) is awarded a $5,000 cash prize provided by Microsoft and a free space to start the business. The event will take place at the Idea Center in Downtown Cleveland.

For more information on the schedule, please visit cleveland.startupweekend the event is sure to sell out, so register today!

a Wicked weekend

Halloween is my favorite holiday! The warm colors, the spicy scents, the sassy costumes, the sugary sweets it all adds up to the celebration of fall. Plus we fall back so we get a bonus hour of sleep.



This weekend along with bobbin for apples see if you can squeeze any of these little treats to your weekend rundown...

- An “All You Can Eat Buffet”
- A Party with the Dead
- A little Coco before Chanel
- Hoops with the boys
- Being okay with Miss Michaelson

So Happy HAlloween to everyone in the "Land-of-Cleve," and might I warn you, don't come by my house without a costume or you won't get any candy. :)

Doughnut adventure

Hi Cleveland and Happy Halloween-Thursday (let the junk food raid begin!)

Lately I have been dreaming of driving from one side of town to the other filling my picnic basket with doughnuts from area fryers and blowing any sort of healthy-living ideas out the window. Unfortunately I have not been able to squeeze in this dreamy doughnut adventure, try as I may, it just won’t happen pre-Friday.



My initial intention of this nutty trip was to assemble a really great plethora of ideas for where you could go Halloween morning as the wizards and witches rise from bed in anticipation of the treat-filled day ahead. Well, instead of all the extra calories, I’ll just give you a brief rundown on some of the spots I have been to over my tenure in Cleveland...

> Doughnut Pantry : 14600 Madison Ave., Lakewood : Saturday 6am-2pm (a bare bones, not fancy, get-em-while-their hot place)

> Spudnuts : 21800 Center Ridge Rd. Rocky River (sweets made from potatoes? Carbs + sugar, yumm)

> Fragapane Bakeries : 650 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village (my friend Meg swears by this place, it has to be good!)

> Prestis : 12101 Mayfield Rd, Little Italy (does Prestis even make doughnuts any more? If not grab anything else, its’ all good!)

> Jack Frost Donuts 4960 Pearl Rd, Cleveland (Saturday 7am- 8pm)

And then there is always Dunkin Doughnuts, Krispy Kreme and even Starbucks is selling good old fashioned sour crème favorites!


Perhaps I will grab a warm doughnut and hit the gym extra hard on Saturday to celebrate the arrival of fall, shorter days and more evenings at the gym :)

Happy doughnut hunting to you.

Spooky Tour (10/29)

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

When the lights are dim and the fog has set in, do you feel the spirits of Cleveland lingering around every corner of downtown? Do you see the misty ghostly creatures hover over the lake in the early morning sunrise? Do you shiver when you put away your bike in the dark garage out back?

Do you ever think of ghost or goblins, or worse?

This Thursday channel your inner spooky fears and hop aboard the Classic Cleveland Ghost Tour with Psychic Sonya. This is the ORIGINAL Haunted Cleveland Tour, one with too many locations, we aren't at liberty to tell you, tour locations are NOT pre-disclosed, so as to discourage any would-be pranksters



Grab your closest friend and hop on the private, chartered bus tour of authentic haunted Cleveland locations, featuring Playhouse Square. Tours run 6:30-10:30pm, beginning at Local Heroes (East 9th & Bolivar, Downtown)
$50 per seat. Prepaid reservations ONLY. CALL Sonya @ (440) 775-1217 to reserve your seat(s) early.

www.hauntedclevelandtours.com

Dodging Sniffles

As fall arrives, and the swine flu sets in we find ourselves armed with a pack of tissues, vitamin c and perhaps switching from the morning latte to a hot cup of Echinacea..

This weekend Nolan predicts cold temperatures and chilling rain to blow through the North East Ohio neighborhoods. If you are looking for a little hideaway to keep you warm and toasty, here are a few of my favorites.



> InnerBliss Yoga : for a hot yoga class to sweat away the bad toxins
> La Petite Triangle Café : for a pot of french press coffee
> Brown Aveda Institute : for an upper body relaxation massage ($17!) to move those nasty germs out of you
> The Cleveland Botanical Garden : for a tropical, butterfly infused adventure
> Chelseas : for a bit of therapeutic searching/shopping for vintage fall frocks (1412 W 116TH St)
> The Great Lakes Theatre : For a comfy lounge chair, a stiff drink (don’t they say alcohol cures a cold?) & Shakespeare

A week in review!

What to do this week? No fear, I'm here with a list of fun suggestions!


C : Capitol Theatre - More Than a Game...Monday night $5 movie, $1 drink, $1 candy!
L : In honor of Cleveland Beer Week, swing by Lilly's Chocolate for a beer & chocolate pairing.
E : Explore the new Gauguin exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
V : Vintage finds, deals & steals at the Cleveland Auction House, fine art & antique auction 10/25
E : Edgewater Park on the Shoreway is peaceful on a sunny fall afternoon...go beach glass picking!
L : An evening of dessert at L'Albatros...french press & frozen grand marnier souffle, yumm...
A : Animals come to town with the Ringling Bros Circus!
N : Nature drawing, Join Gail Felix for an evening of field sketching in nature. 10/19
D : A fall drive out east to view the fall hues that nature has painted across our Ohio trees!

Wild Thing!!! (10/16)

I know we've all been waiting...and waiting...and waiting.

So....LET THE WILD RUMPUS BEGIN!!!



Head over to Cleveland's newest theatre, Captiol Theatre on Detorit in the Gordon Arts Square District for today's release of Maurice Sendacks show, where the wild things are ... showing at 11:30, 2:00. 4:45, 7:15 and 9:40!


Be there or "I'll Eat You Up!!!" :)

Good Bird Hunting

This weekend if you are out and about, perhaps checking out the new Capitol Theatre in the Gordon Arts Square District on the westside of Cleveland...grab your walking shoes and try to find all of these lovely bluebirds.



For more information on the project visit www.clevelandpublicart.org

Busy Weekend (10-02/04)

Another great weekend to be living in Northeast Ohio!

Don’t say your have “nothing to do”...don’t complain that “you’re bored”...GET OUTSIDE and explore this amazing place we are lucky to call CLEVELAND!

- Trash to Sailor : takings trash and making a boat to race over Lake Erie. www.lakeerieboatfloat.org

- Comic Genius : meet the infamous American Splendor-Harvey Pekar live and in person. www.pennellogallery.com

- A spooky train trip : Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a ghost story haunt : www.cvsr.com/events.aspx

- Now you see it...now you don’t : David Copperfield swoops into playhouse square just in time for tricks & treats : www.playhousesquare.com/Events/Events.aspx?EventID=1857

- Theatre opening : Don’t miss the ribbon cutting and opening of the restored Capitol Theatre : www.gordonsquare.org/capitol-gala/

- Dare I say, football? : Could this be THE WEEK for the Browns? Fingers and toes crossed : www.clevelandbrowns.com

What else is going on? A fun pancake breakfast fundraiser? A local church clambake? A dance recital or high school band competition? Let me know and I will try and squeeze that in too!

Gotta love Ohio in the fall. Enjoy!

Knit one. Pearl one. Party forever! (10/1)

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

This week the cool arrival of fall has everyone shaking out their boyfriend cardigans and argyle socks...knit knit and more knit!

Welcome fall, welcome wool and welcome Stash Style Yarn Room! Thursday evening from 7-10 join the girls at the Chagrin Falls main street store as they unveil their newest yarn store with a big opening party.



The new store will sell the exclusive Rowan and Noro lines of yarn which include hand dyed yards and even yarn specifically for a custom pair of wooly socks. They will offer weekly learn to knit workshops from the basic to the more advanced knit projects. There will be a variety of antique beads and trimmings to add to any project. Start now for that special holiday gift...I would love a pair of fingerless gloves...hint hint!

At this weeks Yarn Room opening party, there will be complimentary drinks and snacks as well as many product specials to kick off this new hang out out. Hope to see you there! Stash Style : 46 North Main Street Chagrin Falls, Ohio 440.247.2550

Bike Rack Bash (10/01)

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

Hey all you "hipster wanna be's," you "courier boys," and those of us who just like a great spin around the city, don't miss this weeks unveiling of the Bike Rack at Cleveland Public Art.

The event stems from a call for ideas...30 artists from across Greater Cleveland submitted public art ideas for the facade of a new bike station planned for downtown Cleveland. The submissions were reviewed and winners were chosen by community stakeholders from the Gateway and East 4th Street neighborhood.



Join Cleveland Public Art on Thursday at 5:30pm, to view all the entries and see an installation by the winning artists, Scott Stibich and Mark A. Reigelman II. 1951 West 26th Street, Suite 101.

PLUS, the food is being catered by none other than the best in town...Gatherings Kitchen

Looking up!

Hi i heart cleveland readers!

I hope everyone enjoyed the gorgeous midwest weather over the weekend. I was out of town and missed all of the sunshine. Just a quick note tot let you know once I get caught up with work and such I will jump back to blogging on all the fun happenings in the area. Until then, check out this image I took from the plane...isn't it fun to see life from a different perspective? Enjoy!

Go Brownies! (9/13)

Sunday, September 13th 2009



Start packing your coolers and preparing your bar-b-q...this Sunday is the good old Browns home opener against the Vikings. Kick off at 1pm. Support the orange and brown!

Dragon Boat (8/29)

Saturday, August 29th, 2009

Dragon boat races are believed to have originated in China more than 2,500 years ago, contemporaneous with the Greeks beginning their games at Olympia. Beyond a sporting event, the races and water festivals serve as a veneration to the dragons, hoping for health through the dangerously warm and humid summer months.



The dragon boats are incredibly beautiful, and the event “incorporates high energy, fitness, team building and recreational exercise in a fun and competitive atmosphere,” festival promoters say. The event also is designed to promote the people and unique culture of Cleveland's Asian community. Opening ceremonies will take place on the patio deck of Cyrus Waterfront Restaurant and Patio, 2000 Sycamore Street. Races will be held immediately following the opening ceremonies and continue throughout the day. There's no admission fee for spectators.

The Flats, 10-5pm www.clevelanddragonboatfestival.com

The real "Mrs Cleveland"

I think she looks so sophisticated and elegant. I would like to sit and drink tea with her on a Saturday afternoon discussing politics, fashion and the state of the weather.



(Mrs Frances Cleveland)
1899, oil, 157.2 x 92.2 cm
Wife of President Grover Cleveland

A Night Out With the Stars (8/20)

Thursday, Aug 20th (new moon), 2009

Join Museum naturalists and astronomers (Clyde Simpson, Judy Semroc & Larry Rosche) for a night of music (from the insects) and bright lights (from the stars) at the beautiful Wendtwood Preserve. Discover what comes alive when the sun goes down. Bring a flashlight and your night vision. Telescopes will be set up for the astral viewing.



9 to 11 pm Location specifics will be revealed when you register. Members: $6; nonmembers: $8. Limit 20. To register visit www.cmnh.org

A fun hike

Thursday, Saturday, Sunday



Looks like a bunch of fun. I have the perfect pair of hiking boots, perhaps I will out them to use this week? :)

Concert Wednesday (8/19)

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009

If you haven't been able to make any of the free shows the rock hall has been presenting this summer, this is your LAST CHANCE. This Wednesday, Youngstown’s Gil Mantera’s Party Dream will be playing with special guest, This is a Shakedown!



Gil Mantera’s Party Dream formed during a blizzard in 1999 as a joke, and by 2006 they were selling out shows across the country. In 2006, Village Voice honored them with the Best Show at the SXSW festival that year. They seem to like to wear crazy scantily clad costumes, wonder what Wednesday will bring?



This is a Shakedown!, although relatively new to the Cleveland music scene, is comprised of members of previously popular Northeast Ohio bands Dozen Dead Roses and Leo.

Each concert will be held outside on the Museum’s plaza. In case of bad weather, the shows will be moved indoors on the Main Stage. 6 pm www.rockhall.com

Jackson Vigil (TONIGHT!)

another THIS JUST IN

TONIGHT, 9pm, Outside Plaza of the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame.



Michael Jackson Candlelight Vigil : The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum’s remembrance of Michael Jackson will commence with a special program honoring the life and musical legacy of this two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee. The program will include a short memorial presentation by Pastor Jawanza Colvin of the Olivet Institutional Baptist Church and Terry Stewart, president and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, followed by fan testimonials and a candlelight vigil outside on the Museum’s Plaza. A limited supply of candles will be available on a first-come, first-served basis courtesy of the Rock Hall. Fans are also welcome to bring a Jackson-inspired memento to the event; the Rock Hall will provide a memorial space.

For more information visit the Rock Hall website.

Rock & Boom (7/04)

Saturday, July 4th, 2009

Looking for someplace new to lay your blanket this holiday weekend to take in the heart pounding, sky glitter known as fireworks?

Celebrate Independence Day in style from the decks of the Steamship William G. Mather. Discover what life onboard a working Great Lakes freighter was like as you take in the fireworks. Walk the decks and marvel at the “engineering firsts” that helped transform Northeast Ohio into a great industrial center. Experience the golden era of steamboats and the holiday "bling" on one of the best tickets.



Food and drinks can be purchased on board. Fireworks begin at dusk, although the ship opens at 6pm, first come first serve. Entrance tickets are $12. For more info visit the Great Lakes Science Center.

Wonderful Waterloo (6/27)

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

Some wise person recently tipped me on to the "BEST" arts festival in Cleveland...and I MUST see what the excitement is all about! (I am so there.)



Cleveland’s fastest-growing grassroots, family-friendly arts festival is back and better than ever, with more exhibits, installations performances and activities. More than 5,000 people are expected to spend the day on Waterloo, seeing and making art, catching live performances, shopping an array of vendors and noshing on local eats, as well as visiting all the one-of-a-kind businesses that make this burgeoning district unique.

PLUS, while you're visiting...The Beachland Ballroom is hosting a "Rock n' Roll Flea Market," wonder what treasures we can find?

For hours & directions visit www.artscollinwood.org

Good Pickin!

It’s almost officially summer (6/21), how do I know? Because the berry patches are filled with juicy, finger-staining creations... aka Strawberries.

Last weekend a friend of mine and I took in the early morning sunshine and set out to pick us some berries. We drove to Avon and south on Rt. 83 to a berry palace called Fitch Farms. We drove the hay filled tractor trailer back into the fields. Pick one...eat two...pick three...eat two....I know we picked 4 quarts (one basket) but I wonder how many we ate along the way? Shhhh.



Fitch's Farm Market is a sixth generation vegetable farm. In-market and pick-your-own vegetables are available while in season. Beginning in late April, vegetable and flower plants are also available. Berry picking times are as follows...Mon-Fri 9:30 - 7:00 (you could squeeze it in after work some evening), Saturday 9:30 - 5:00 and Sunday 11:30 - 5:00. For other details give them a call at (440) 934-6125.

Also, be warned, Strawberries stain, I used to have a white tank top...now I have a white tank top with pink polka dots! :)

Sunday Spin (6/14)

Sunday, June 14th, 2009

Join over 700 riders for the 33rd annual ride throughout one of the largest Amish settlements in the world. All cyclists are welcome including casual recreational cyclists, road warrior tourists and energetic triathlon competitors.



Routes of 25/50/63 & 100 miles are offered. Rolling hills with some steeper inclines. Rest stops, route markings, maps, pasta lunch! Entry form available online at www.clevelandtouringclub.org

Supper @ Gatherings Kitchen

On any given Friday you can find the windows of 17004 Madison Avenue aglow. The aromas of a busy gourmet restaurant are rolling out into the street. The low rumble of excitement and chatter fills the air...it’s time for “Supper.”

As a fellow Lakewood-ite, I would like to introduce and welcome the new business Gatherings Kitchen to the ‘hood. The brain child of Chefs Ruth and Doug, Gatherings Kitchen is a boutique catering business by day, but when Friday nights roll in, let the cooking fun begin!

Ever wanted to learn how to dismantle an artichoke, make hand-rolled gnocchi or “french” a lamb? This is the place to go. Each Friday a lucky twelve “chefs” meet at the kitchen for a culinary exploration. Nothing too difficult, just recreational cooking at its best. After a solid two hours in the kitchen, students move into the storefront dining room (which features a custom-made farmhouse style table and a vintage crystal chandelier) where they are served the fruits of their labor, course by course, by Chefs Ruth & Doug.



Supper is BYOB, so bring some spirits to share with your fellow foodies. You are guaranteed to walk away with a few knife tricks in your pocket, a full belly and a handful of new Cleveland friends.

The new June menu has arrived at Gatherings Kitchen (South American Cuisine.) Spaces are filling up fast, so grab your friends and sign up together. $50 per person. 6:30-10:00pm-ish!

It's Blossom Time (5/21-25)

Thursday May 21st - Monday, May 25th, 2009

Looks like this weekend is going to be SPECTACULAR! I am so excited because I am going to experience Blossom Festival in Chagrin Falls for the very first time! Hot air balloon races, pie eating contests, music, carnival rides and a race (Sunday @ 9am), my kinda weekend!

Join the residents of the Chagrin Falls as they welcome the arrival of warmer weather to the Falls. With flowers and trees in full bloom, the Chagrin Falls area is transformed from a winter wonderland into a warm, peaceful, enchanting place to spend your lazy summer evenings. After shopping, eating, rides, and games at the festival, don't forget to spend some quality time enjoying the natural beauty of the area homes, gardens, parks, and the Chagrin River.

I think the best part of the weekend (besides the cotton candy) will be all the hot air balloons scattered over the village sky. There is something about a hot air balloon that hypnotizes me. Perhaps it’s the purring sound of the rush of flames being thrown into the sky, or the quiet calmness that hovers over the crowd as they watch in astonishment. Anyone want to get up early and meet me out there to watch the balloons take off Sunday morning, 6:00am, I will bring the coffee?



For those of you who think they are as cool as I do, check out these few fun facts....
• the most popular balloon is as tall as a 7-story building
• the average balloon costs $20,000 to $40,000
• ideal times to fly are just after sunrise and just before sunset
• a hot air balloon can land in water
• balloons can stay up for 1-2 hours depending on conditions and occupants
• inflating a balloon takes about 15 minutes
• invented back in 1783 in Paris, France (GO PARIS!)

For the full schedule and race application

Learn to Stilt (5/16 & 17)

Saturday, May 16th & Sunday, May 17th, 2009

Ever wanted to learn to walk on stilts? An automatic "IN" to any area parade! This weekend the Cleveland Museum of Art, (in preparation for Parade the Circle) is offering "Stilt Weekend."

Canadian stilters Brad Harley and Rick Simon show you how to take a few steps high in the air! Free to all, children must be at least 10 years old to participate. You may order stilts during stilt weekend: $50 (yours to keep after safety training).



Parade the Circle is organized by the Cleveland Museum of Art and is presented through the generous support of the Womens Council of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

1:30-4:30pm, For more information visit www.clemusart.com

Circle Home Tour (5/03)

Sunday, May 3rd, 2009

Ever wanted to explore some of the old homes in the University Circle area? This Saturday join University Circle Inc. as they present the first annual Circle Home Tour.



Look into ten very diverse homes and lifestyles of the University Circle area. Start your tour at the University Circle Visitor Center (11330 Euclid Ave) or at Judson Manor (1890 East 107th Street at Chester Ave.)

1-5pm : Tickets are $10 per person if purchased in advance; $15 if purchased on Sunday. Registration available online at www.universitycircle.org

Road Trip : Bike Museum

It’s supposed to be such a nice weekend, why not plan to take a LONG bike ride (almost 200 miles Yo!) to the Bicycle Museum of America in New Bremen, OH (3 hrs by car).

The Museum has more than 300 bikes on display and more than 1,000 sets of wheels on rotation. Take a tour or explore the collection on your own, no helmets required! :) The museum covers the history of the bike from the early 1800’s to the most recent BMX designs.



For more details on this Ohio gem, visit www.bicyclemuseum.com.

Looking for love?

A few weeks ago I asked a fellow blogger to write a little ditty on finding love in Cleveland. As the voice behind 27 Dress in Cleveland she is an (almost) expert in dating, weddings and searching for love. I hope you enjoy her advice, I found it to be interesting....as I would have never thought of Heinens?



Hi, i heart cleveland readers! I’m "Always a Bridesmaid," moseyin’ on over here give my two cents about the best places to date and find love in Cleveland. (Well, maybe not the best, considering I’m still single. But really, really good places.)

Anyhow, if you’re over the bar scene (I know I am) and need other ideas for where to meet (or court) a potential mate, check out the list below:

LOOKING FOR MR. or MS. RIGHT
If you’re on the West side of town, pop into Heinen’s in Rocky River. Holy hottie alert, Batman! Stop in any time after 6pm on a weeknite and you’ll find lots of peeps who have just come from working out and don’t feel like going home to cook for a table of one. Hint: the pre-prepared food section is a goldmine for singles! (Sidenote: I went to a wedding last year for a couple who met in the sports drink aisle here!)

FOR A LOW-KEY DATE
Who doesn’t like a cuppa joe for an early courtship get-to-know-you date? Check out the newly opened Erie Island Coffee Company on East 4th St. downtown. The inside décor is modern and chic and the folks working there are mighty nice too. A bonus? The seating in the window area, where you can check out everyone passing by. (Which could be a welcome distraction if your date isn’t going so well!)

IF YOU WANT TO IMPRESS HIM/HER
Ever been to Ponte Vecchio (? Located on the Superior Viaduct bridge downtown (its name actually means “old bridge”), this cozy little spot is the perfect setting for a romantic Italian dinner. (Take it from an Italian girl!) The stars (and the city!) look amazing lit up from there at nite.

Know of other potential “meet your mate” places? Visit my blog and drop me a note, I can use all the help I can get.

French Music Fest (4/17)

Friday, April 17th, 2008

If you wish to spend an evening with a cup of espresso (or Brooklyn Ale) and some European tunes, put this event on your weekend to-do list. Bella Dubby Cafe will welcome a group of musicians from France and Switzerland to fill the coffee shop with music from across the pond. Some electronic, some french-punk and a bit of "noise" to get the party started.

Tamagawa - France (Abstract musik between earth, spacemen 3 and velvet underground.)

B°tong - Switzerland (Electroni-k between throbbing gristle and lustmord.)

Oldine - Paris (Ambient rock between brian eno and sonik boom.)

Shit - France (D.I.Y. noise between bastard noise or sunn. Singer in cult band Vomit For Breakfast.)



Drawing of Oldine by Martina (from Hamburg)

For directions to Bella Dubby visit www.myspace.com/beladubby

Egg Hunt (4/11)

Saturday, April 11th, 2009

Young & old are cordially invited to kick off the 10th anniversary season of Hershey Children’s Garden at the Cleveland Botanical Garden with their annual eggs-travaganza.



Bring your little bunnies ages 3-10 to search for eggs-ellent treats, to hear stories, do crafts and play games. Kids can also shake hands with an international star, the Easter Bunny! The spring scene allows kids to discover treasures among emerging cattails, amidst blooming daffodils or at the foot of a newly green weeping willow. ( I love willow trees!)

11-12:30 pm $8 member child; $12nonmember child, Free/member adult; $7.50 nonmember adult | To reserve your spot call (216) 721-1600 ext. 100 | Cleveland Botanical Garden 11030 East Boulevard Cleveland, Ohio 44106

VERY Cool Stuff.

Hello Cleveland.
Can you believe we are already in quarter #2 of ‘09? I surely can’t.

Over the past few months there has been lots of action floating around my little blog. With a handful of readers each day, I constantly question whether the optimistic tune of my thoughts and feelings are reaching out and making a small daily difference. I usually devote a few hours a week to organizing my thoughts around what I am going to say, researching exciting Cleveland happenings and developing small stories that I think much of Cleveland could be interested in. It’s rather time intensive.

With that said I have been approached by numerous readers to develop a successful and profitable partnership in order to keep this blog alive and well. I think you will all be as excited as I am about these opportunities.

Known for her clever sense of fashion and style, Cleveland Plain Dealer Style Editor Kim Crow has approached me and offered to send me on a monthly style shopping trip. I will receive a shopping stipend as long as the PD can piggy-back on my monthly post. I am making my list of fun fashionable Cleveland hot spots right now. I can barely contain my excitement!

Because of the many rave reviews the blog has provided to many area “star” chefs including Michael Symon (Lola's & Lolita’s) and Jonathan Sawyer (Greenhouse Tavern), iheartcleveland has been asked to partner with the local organization Cleveland Originals. Promoting area restaurant “deals & steals” as well as their quarterly discounted gift certificate sales, the blog will be provided a handful of gift certificates to distribute to you, our readers, for FREE in exchange for feedback on your dining experience. I should have these opportunities posted within the month, so stay tuned!

Playhouse Square has recently approached me about possibly partnering with them on a special “iheartplayhousesquare ticket package.” Tickets to many of the hot, mainly sold-out shows will be awarded for the first ten comments to any of our Playhouse Square event postings. Those who comment first will receive complimentary tickets in the special loge area as well as a free intermission cocktail coupon. Some of the upcoming shows that I would LOVE to see at Playhouse Square include Neko Case and Mary Poppins. Be on the lookout for those posts and your opportunity to see them free!

Not that I write too much about area sports, but someone was looking out for me when the blog got mentioned at a recent Indians “viral” marketing meeting. Bob DiBiasio, Cleveland Indians Vice President of Public Relations, recently contacted me about an exciting opportunity writing for the Indians Blog on more of a social, “Tribe Around Town” feature. I will have a press pass and be privileged to sit in the media boxes during all of the summer baseball games along some of the best in the journalism world. This alone makes me think that my time spent writing this blog has been completely worth it! Go Tribe! (My one question...does the gig include free I-shaped soft pretzels?)

Last but not least, a few months ago I sent out a “guest blog request,” to some of our Cleveland celebs. I had GREAT response. Stay tuned for some of my first one-on-one interviews including my morning spent with basketball phenom; Lebron James!!!! (Al Roker’s interview was a blast too, he even sent me these cool NBC rain boots & umbrella after the interview...I love you Al!)

So, as I sometimes wonder if anyone is reading or even cares about my “hobby” I guess it doesn't matter as long as I am having fun and enjoying each and ever day in Cleveland. :) www.iheartcleveland.com Pass it on!

It Started...Day 5

It's Day 5 of the 34th Cleveland International Film Festival. Yesterday (Day 4) I was lucky enough to see two very different films.

On the sunny Sunday morning I hopped onto the Rapid and made my way to Tower City for the morning movies. There was a great sense of anticipation as to what this years festival would hold for me. The smell of popcorn, the program all dog-eared, the friends gathering together in the lobby, I knew I was in for a treat.

One of my favorite things is to see is the festival trailer that the designers at Twist Creative and the filmmakers at Authentic Films have created together. This years did not disappoint; great job guys! It's fun to watch and pick out people you may know, take a look below.



Enjoy week two of the festival , with many more films on my agenda, I know I will! For the complete schedule visit www.clevelandfilm.org

Sweet films (3/19-29)

Thursday, March 19th, 2009

Grab your popcorn, twizzlers and large fountain coke and head to the 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival which kicks off tomorrow night!



Did you get your book? Planned your attack? Purchased your tickets? I have and am ready to enjoy an evening or two at this years Festival. Take the RTA, embrace Tower City Cinemas, grab a friend and expericen the film world from across the globe. You won't be sorry with this years lineup of flicks, there is something for everyone. Short animations to documentaries, romance to thrillers, old school to way far out, get your tickets TODAY!

For tickets or information about the festival in general visit www.clevelandfilm.org

I loved last years 32nd CFF film trailer. Wonder what this years will be?

Around the World (3/13)

Friday, March 13th, 2009

While I don't have all of the details, I do know that this Friday, the quaint row of shops and restaurants in the Detroit Shoreway Neighborhood will be hosting it's first ever "WORLD of Detroit Shoreway" a weekend celebration.

The neighborhood is so diverse, make a stop to experience all that their "world" offers. There is fine ethnic dining from Vietnamese to Puerto Rican, Irish to American. An array of art galleries lets you experience art from artists both local and international. Retail boutiques let you find home accessories and furniture, greeting cards, music, apparel, jewelry and books all hand-selected by friendly, fun store owners.



One thing I am sure of is Danielle, owner of Room Service, will be playing the role of "France" as she unveils her french finds straight from her recent journey to Paris. Stop by her store for all things magnifique, including sweet tunes and tastes. www.roomservicecleveland.com

duoHOME will be celebrating Germany. From bottle openers to cheese slicers, wine racks to business card holders, every item boasts sleek, contemporary design, partnered with the high quality one has come to expect from German-produced goods. www.duohome.com

The event is Friday from 5-9pm and Saturday from 11-7pm, invite your pals and take in all "the world" offers on Detroit Ave! :) (I don't know why I loved the little pic of the "world dolls" but I thought they were fun and cheery, hope you do too!?!)