August things to do

Its the 5th day into the month of August and I feel like the month of July just flew by. This month brings me celebrating a very good friends wedding, weekend trips out of town and celebrating an award I still can't believe I will be receiving. Outside of those exciting plans I am looking forward to a little more free time this month. I've made a bucket list of things I'd like to do before September roles around. Below is some of my list. What are some things your looking forward to do this month? -B

• Check out Gordie Harper's Bazaar in Lockport
• Attend the food truck rodeo at the Buffalo History Museum
• Take a historical boat tour down by Canalside
• Visit Chautauqua Lake for the day
• Visit Bennett Beach
• Explore Lewiston, NY
• Visit Code Blu Juice Bar in Allentown
• Start planning my next big event for Just a Blonde in Buffalo

Thursday's Thought of the Day

My thought for the day

My thoughts #29

I am not a writer by no means, I don't even consider myself a real blogger. My intentions for Just a Blonde in Buffalo were to talk about my experiences, the places I go, people I meet and things I do in town and if people read my posts great, if not, that's ok too.

Every now and then I post things that have no relation to Buffalo, they are just my thoughts and feelings during a particular time in my life. I've mentioned this in past posts, but 2014 has definitely been a year of growth, appreciation and just living the life that has been given to me.

A lot of times I get ideas, thoughts and even reflect on things when I'm in the car. I don't know why, but I think that's just my "spot," my "thing." One of my biggest goals is to inspire people to do what they want to do, to bring out the best in them and for them to know that they can do whatever they put their mind to.

We are only brought into this world for a short time and I feel like a lot of us don't get what we want out of life. I think one of the reasons I have been doing things I never thought I would do {snowboarding, a half marathon, speed dating, etc.} is because I'm just an average person who believe it or not is shy and insecure, but I want to show people that we all can do things if we just put our minds to it.

Each day is an opportunity to do something great, to make a memory and appreciate one another. If we all put in a positive attitude and did something nice for someone, even if its just holding the door open, saying good morning with a smile on your face or letting someone in your lane on the road, it would make you feel good because you did an act of kindness.

I am by far not perfect, no one is, but at this point in my life, I'm learning what is important to me, what I want to be known for and what really matters.

 "I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back." - Maya Angelou

And these are my thoughts for today.

-B

July things to do

We're in the heat of summer and July is one of my favorite months of the year. I don't know why, but it is. The month is filled with festivals, plays, beaches, BBQ's, events and concerts. What are some of the things you have planned for this month. Check out my list below:

-B

• Hanging out in the country at my parents cabin in Cuba, NY
• Celebrating one of my good friends Bachelorette party
• Checking out a concert at Artpark
• Heading to Canalside for a Thursday at the Harbor
• Going Strawberry picking in Clarence, NY
• Checking out a play at Shakespeare in Delaware Park
• Taking a tour of Buffalo's Architecture
• Visiting the Botanical Gardens

Taking a Breather...

My intentions for todays post were to talk about the Allentown Art Festival that I attended over the weekend, but I decided to opt out of that and just write about something completely having nothing to do with Buffalo or Western New York. Instead its just how I've been feeling lately and who knows maybe you have to.

The last few weeks have felt more busy than normal and this year I told myself that I was going to try to not take on as much and learn to "relax" a little more. Well ...we are 6 months into 2014 and while I feel like I've done more things for "me," I have also felt at times rushed, drained and run down.

I mean everyone feels "run down" at times and its always good to just take a step back and take some time for yourself. Anyone who says they don't take time for themselves, well I just don't buy it.

As I type I feel a little defeated. Defeated in the sense that I just don't have the energy. I'm the first to admit I try and do as much as I can when I can, not only because I enjoy going to new places and meeting new people, but I also like to talk about it on my blog and with my friends and family. Its a part of my personality. But as summer officially approaches us at the end of the week I'm going into this season with a different mindset; to do things I really want to do and not just "go through the motions," but to really enjoy living in the moment.

Because summers feel so short in Buffalo, I feel like we try to pack in as much as we can so we can get the most out of these warmer months, but at the end of the day if we really can't enjoy what we're doing then maybe we should take a step back and focus on what matters at that time.

Whatever it is that you do or whenever you feel like you're "run down" remember to take time to breath. Everyone deserves some "me" time.

-B

Father's Day {6.15.14}

Father's Day is this coming Sunday and I don't know about you, but shopping for my Dad is hard. Over the last few years instead of trying to buy him something, me and him have went out golfing or just spent the day together. My father is {outside of my Mom} the most important person in my life, so being able to spend a day with him in my eyes is priceless.

Whether you're Dad is a sports guy, a business guy, an artsy guy or just a laid back casual guy, there is always something you can find to show your Father just how much he means to you.

Here is a list of some places around town that I think could help you with your Father's Day gifts:

Glen Oak Golf Course {one of the many gold courses around town}

Blue Collar Buffalo {one of the best male clothing stores in Buffalo}

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que {for a more "manly" meal}

Delta Sonic {offering car wash packages and Bisons tickets}

Allentown Art Festival {take a stroll through the festival and pick up a piece of art}

Regal Movie Cinema

June "To-Do"

Its finally June and the weather is warm! Yay! With that being said this month for me is all about continuing to try new things and check out new places {especially ones that have nice patios}. Some places I definitely want to stop by this month are Newbury Street on Elmwood, Dug's Dive down by the outer harbor and Mes Que on Hertel. With less than a month until my half marathon I've been taking my training to different places around town and I want to check out the trails at Chestnut Ridge Park this month. What are some fun things you have planned in and around town in June?

Life is short, so take advantage of any opportunities that come your way. Even if that means relaxing with a good book and nice sunset. It's the simple things in life that mean the most.

-B

Friday Favorites!

This week has been quite rough, coming back from a fun weekend trip in Nashville, I will be saying goodbye to my uncle today alongside my family. Life is full of unexpected turns and you truly never know what is going to happen at any moment. In this world nothing lasts and all you can really do is cherish the moments you have, hold onto the memories and keep the ones you love, the most near and dear of them, close to your heart. Each day is a gift and you should always choose to make the most of it because all you have is this present moment. Have a wonderful weekend and make it one to remember. -B

{ I will always cherish the moments with you, the times you called me "Blondie" and the creative poems you always sent me on my birthday. Heaven gained another angel this week }

{ There will always be a little bit of Buffalo left in Nashville }

{ Because sometimes you just need to get away and be up in the clouds }

{ I couldn't be more happier to be apart of your special day Jeni! Thank you for bringing a little sunshine into a gray time }

Monday Morning Inspiration

Life is a funny and sometimes complicated. We all face challenges and hard times, but with that comes great things, positive things. Sometimes when you think things are falling into place or finally getting back to a sense of "normal" it throws you a curveball. Something you didn't see things coming and it hits you right in the face. And with that "curveball" you're expected to figure it out. You have to change your "plan" and make it work.

It wasn't my intent to write about this topic today or anytime soon, but something happened and I felt I needed to share what I'm feeling right now. I'm a planner, I like to have a handle on things, if someone I care about is in a difficult situation I'd rather be in their place and take away the pain and fear for them, its just who I am.  I'm also a very emotional person so when things hit me, I feel it and I feel it with all of my emotions. Life is a great, great gift. A gift that should never be taken for granted because you never know when it will be your last.

What I've learned more and more recently is no matter what is thrown your way in life, whether its good, bad, easy or hard, you should treasure the moments you have and be grateful because you were meant to enjoy your time here, every single second of it. Everything ALWAYS ALWAYS works out, maybe not the way you planned, but it always does, so don't be depressed, sad, feel defeated, ashamed or guilty because you deserve to be happy, excited, and victorious.

Enjoy your week.

-B

April "To-Do" List

We've made it to April and here's hoping the nice weather stays around in Western New York and we can start to enjoy the Spring season. This month I'm focused on Spring cleaning and getting outside. Enjoying the fresh air and preparing for the half marathon I'm running at the end of June. I'm looking forward to checking out new parks and running paths and of course hitting up my old childhood neighborhood on the east side of Buffalo for annual Dyngus Day celebrations. I'm also looking forward to checking out some more Friday Fish Fry's particularly Conlon's { I hear they have a good one }. What are some of your "to-do's" for the month of April?

-B

My "March To-Do" List

March is one of my favorite months of the year. It may have something to do with it being my birthday month, but its also that time where winter is ending {hopefully} and spring is about to begin. I put together a list of some of the things I would like to accomplish this month.

1. Taking a tour of the Martin House Complex

2.  For my birthday this year I gathered some of my closest friends and we're going to Paint on Tap Studios for a private party. I can't wait for this!

3. Crista and Pam just came back from NYC and bought some cute spring clothes for Ooo La La Boutique and Ooo La La Fashion Truck. I can't wait till they arrive at the store

4. I need to relax more and what better way than taking a yoga class at Power Yoga Buffalo

5.  I've been meaning to check out Vera Pizzeria and get my own take on it. I've heard good and so-so reviews

6. With the weather almost close to breaking, I'm looking forward to a trip to lululemon's Buffalo Showroom to get some spring workout gear for outside

7. I love taking photos and putting together scrapbooks and photo albums. This month I'd like to put together a book of all my Instagram photos through Printstagram

8. As I'm getting older I see how great this city is and want to learn more about the place I call home, so on my list is taking a tour of Buffalo's City Hall

9. As much as I love home, I love to travel and am thinking of weekend getaways and trips to plan for the upcoming months. So far I'm thinking the Hamptons, Rhode Island, maybe somewhere warm? Tell me some of your favorite places to travel!

Other things I'd like to do this month are; meet some more people for my Women/People Who Move Buffalo series, find an event venue for an event I'm planning in the Fall of 2014 and take a cooking class at Delish!

-B

I can cook!

I will say I can cook a few generic things - mac n' cheese, soup, and eggs to name a few. I can even make a good salad and sandwich, so when I found this recipe on A Beautiful Mess I thought I should try it, especially because it is very easy clean up. Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1 box linguine {I used regular spaghetti noodles}
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 sprigs basil leaves
• 3 cloves of garlic minced {I used pre minced garlic in a jar}
• 2 cups Vegetable stock
• 2 1/2 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes {Add a little more if you like it spicier}
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• salt + pepper

In a large pot add all of the ingredients together excluding the feta cheese and salt and pepper.

{ A combination of all the ingredients together }

Once in the pot, bring to a high boil and stir occasionally. After about 5 minutes on a high boil bring down to a low boil and stir occasionally for another 5-7 minutes or until noodles are al dente. Most to all of the liquid should be gone. Stir one last time to get all the flavors mixed together. Top with feta cheese and salt and pepper.

You can serve warm or cold. If you'd like, add chicken to get some protein in your meal as well.

This recipe was super easy, I had leftovers for days and it was easy clean up. If you're like me you will enjoy this dish.

Enjoy!

-B  

Cheers to the New Year!

2013 was a year full of many things. There isn't one thing that represents this year, rather a handful of events, from new opportunities, meeting new people, going to new places, to facing some of my fears. All of these things combined have made 2013 a year that I will remember for a very long time.

In 2014 I am going to try to take more time to do the things I love and enjoy, try and focus on myself and learn that its ok to say no from time to time. I also am looking forward to checking out new places, meeting new people and building on my blog.

Thank you for being along for the ride and following along. Cheers to a healthy and prosperous New Year!

-B

Let's take a look down memory lane with some highlights for this past year;

{ My favorite restaurant and bar on Chippewa opened its doors this fall ... The Lodge }

{ First edition of Just a Blonde in Buffalo {Picture Book} }

{ #DTH13 }

{ Ellicottville - Fall fest 2013 }

{ The guys from Wishful Inking }

{ Old Fort Niagara }

{ Buffalo Bills 2013 }

{ Gabby from After 5 events }

{ Hands down one of the best weddings I was a apart of this year ( Mehltretter Wedding ) }

{ Kayaking and Silo tour on the waterfront }

{ Jamestown NY for the I Love Lucy festival }

{ My first 5k race }

{ Larkinville }

{ Seabar }

{ Dyngus Day at the Central Terminal }

{ Just a Blonde in Buffalo Launch Party }

Words for Wednesday

This quote pretty much speaks for itself...

#BuffaloLinks

Deck the Halls for Main St. Runway - an event bringing together the local East Aurora Community - a night filled with fun, fashion, friends and more.

The Polar Plunge takes place on Saturday to benefit the Special Olympics - if you're looking for something fun and unique to do take a dip in the "chilly" water at Woodlawn Beach

Looking to get your holiday Christmas tree? Check out Jurek Trees in Clarence, NY.

Monday Morning WrapUp

Another weekend has come and gone and we're back to Monday. It was a nice 4 day weekend; Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and my niece's birthday party. It all went by to quickly, but some of the highlights were my book came in the mail - Just a Blonde in Buffalo (from blog to book), Lockhouse Distillery had an amazing opening - selling out of 800+ bottles of vodka made right here in Buffalo, NY (I got there just in the knick of time to get one of the last bottles), people came out and shopped local on Saturday supporting stores in East Aurora, Buffalo and Main St. And ending the weekend out with a birthday party at the Buffalo Zoo for my niece. Who knew petting a lizard with a blue tongue and chinchilla's would top my list of pretty cool experiences. Oh and let's not forget the Buffalo Bills in Toronto - the Beach Boys performing during halftime let's just say that's a lot better than Psy performing again this year.

-B

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving Western New York! Good luck to all the turkey trot runners out there today as the YMCA celebrates the 118th year of the race. Don't forget to bring your canned food donation for the Food Bank of WNY.

I am wishing all of you a wonderful day with the people you are most thankful for. I personally, have met so many wonderful people this year and have had some wonderful opportunities that I will never forget. Not only today, but everyday I am thankful for my wonderful family and friends and the blessings and lessons I have learned.

Have a wonderful day!

-B

Words for Wednesday

With Thanksgiving tomorrow I found this quote on Pinterest and think it's appropriate for this time of year. We should always live by the words we say - be thankful and appreciate your blessings all year round, not just during this holiday season. JFK was a wise man.

-B

Words for Wednesday

Each day we should do something for ourselves - whether its a 5 minute break to clear your head, volunteering, shopping, going for a run or calling someone special in your life. We all deserve to live happy lives so why not live the happiest one you can...

-B