A trip on Hertel

I will say I don't get the chance to visit Hertel Ave. that much, but when I do I always enjoy walking down the street and visiting the local shops that reside there. One of my favorites to visit is Modern Nostalgia. I was on a mission to find a couple new pieces of clothing that I could wear multiple times as different looks and combine with pieces I already have at home. The store is so comfortable, I love the chic and rustic vibe it gives. And Morgan was great, she helped me pick out pieces that looked good and I was comfortable in. Definitely check them out when you're in the area or if you're looking for new pieces to add to your wardrobe. -B

{ Jasmine green tea from Spot and my Modern Nostalgia purchases }

{ I couldn't resist to snap a picture of this lovely Elephant jacket #trunksareup #goodluck }

{ This mirror in the dressing room is so pretty and the maxi dress on the hanger is so comfortable #feminine #chic }

{ You can always spice up an outfit with the right accessories and Mod Nos has a variety to choose from }

Buffalo's Cherry Blossoms

This past weekend was the last weekend for the Cherry Blossom festival that was taking place at the Japanese Gardens in Delaware Park. Sunday was a great day to take a stroll and snap a couple of pictures. Tents were set up and you could learn about the activities going on during the day.

I opted out and decided to walk around the gardens and capture some photos of the Cherry Blossoms that were in bloom. The parking lot was full of cars and people we setting up for a picnic when I was there. Overall it was a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon and appreciate the nature around the Buffalo History Museum. Seeing the cherry blossoms in bloom was a nice reminder that spring is here.

-B

May {To-Do's}

{ Maxi dress from Ooo La La Boutique. Matt & Nat bag, you can find at Anna Grace on Elmwood. Stay up to date on the events I have coming up on my events page }

Happy Cinco De Mayo!! Today is a great day to celebrate some delicious margarita's at Cantina Loco! The month of May for me is a month to continue to get things done. By that I mean spring cleaning, organizing, traveling at the end of the month, training for the half marathon next month, trying new things & visiting new places {Newbury Street & The Boat House specifically} and kick starting a variety of events that are coming up throughout the summer that I have a part in.

What are some things you are looking forward to this month?

-B

Friday Favorites!

Its finally Friday. Here's to the first weekend of May. With all the April showers we've had, I'm hoping to see some beautiful May flowers this weekend. Enjoy!

-B

{ Ravens on Ravenswood Wine, one of my favorite Merlots }

{ Nothing is better than Happy Hour at Blue Monk. I love trying new beers off the menu }

{ Two of the loveliest ladies I know }

 { I love the country chic design of the barn, so pretty}

#BuffaloLinks

This Saturday from 3-7pm stop by the village of Hamburg and take a stroll on their Hamburg Wine About 2014. For $20 take a trolley and taste a variety of wines from different wineries at local shops throughout the village.

Buffalo's first and only polish food truck Betty Crockski. Make sure to check their schedule daily to see where they'll be.

I haven't been to Rapids Theater in a few years. I'm looking forward to the upcoming concert their on Monday evening.

Springfest at Marcy Casino that was supposed to take place this Sunday is postponed until May 31. I missed last year and am hoping to make an appearance at this year's event.

Shop, Sip and Barre

Last week Annette and I paid a visit to one of my personal favorite shops Research and Design in Orchard Park. Barre Centric hosted a free Barre class {class was about 40 minutes long and they provided yoga mats for you} and you could shop new arrivals and get 15% off! Free cocktails and water were served as you shopped the barn. I've been seeing on social media a lot of local boutiques hosting a barre or yoga class and offering a unique, one-of-a-kind shopping experience. If you have the opportunity try and attend one of these "private" events. Its a great chance to visit a store you may not have gone to yet and receive a discount off. It also allows you to take an exercise class you may not have taken before for free. Its a good way to know if you'd want to come back again and sign up for more classes at the exercise studio.

-B

Dyngus Day Wrap Up

Dyngus day has come and past and while I enjoyed my time with friends I must say I have to voice my "concerns" on how I feel about the event this year. Going down to the Polonia District in the east side of Buffalo is a tradition. It brings back memories of my old neighborhood, where I grew up and celebrating at the Central Terminal is a great time.

This year there were crowds and crowds of people, more so than in past years {I think the nice weather had something to do with that}, but with that came no sense of organization on the event planners part, people were cutting through fences, more garbage lined the streets than normal, the bands didn't stick with the tradition of playing just Polka music, I'm sorry but in past years that's all that was played, no modern music was played. There was no TYSKIE beer {how can you not have Tyskie Beer at Dyngus Day}, I thought there was a "lack of security" and I felt $5 per drink ticket was fairly high. Where does this money go to? If you have Sobieski Vodka or a beer sponsor, sponsoring your event, where does the money go from ticket and drink sales? Does it go to help renovations at the Terminal or Churches that are still open on the East side of Buffalo? I would like to know.

I don't like to be negative, but after attending this past yea,r all of these questions arose and I thought I would put it out there. All things aside I had a good time, the weather was great, the company was better and I'm looking forward to 2015, hopefully back inside the Terminal.

-B  

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

Friday Favorites!

The Easter holiday has come and gone and while it was relaxing I'm ready for a busy next couple of weeks. Enjoy your weekend! -B

{ I love fresh flowers }

{ I spent a lot of time at St. Stan's during the Easter holiday }

{ Visiting my favorite clothing boutique in East Aurora - Ooo La La Boutique }

{ My niece and I enjoyed time coloring and "glamming" up Easter eggs this past weekend }

{ The newest addition to the Buffalo food trucks, a Polish one! Betty Crockski }

#BuffaloLinks

Starting April 23 through May 4, Buffalo is hosting a Cherry Blossom Festival at the Japanese Gardens next to the Buffalo History Museum. This is a kick start to enjoy the beautiful Buffalo gardens over the course of the next few months.

Saturday Communify Buffalo is hosting the 2nd annual Show How event. Learn from people in various industries, crafts and trades at this event. For tickets and more info go here.

Do you love shorts? How about stylish, vintage shorts? Vintage Chameleon offers a variety of options in the shorts department. Perfect for the summer months ahead. Check her facebook page out here.

SSet is a new store that opened on Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo. If offers housewares, antiques and vintage pieces for those looking to makeover a room in their home or for you new home owners. Check them out!

Brewing in the Burbs

The other day Lacey, Nicole and myself went to Hamburg Brewing Company in Hamburg, NY. What a beautiful place it is! While we went to attend an event held by the Buffalo Beer Goddesses the event didn't seem to really exist, but regardless we had a good time. We each ordered a flight that was $8 and came with the opportunity to choose 4 beers out of a handful of options including the Derailer that has a 9.4% alcohol content. The brewery has a beautiful pond with a nice patio and gives off a lodge type feel. They offer light appetizers, like soft pretzels with mustard and such.

I was with two ladies who have their Cicerone so I was able to learn about the beers I was sampling. Hamburg Brewing Company is a place I would definitely go back to and tour the facility and enjoy a few brews outside next time. If you can't make it out to Hamburg check their Beer Finder to see if a local bar or restaurant serves it near you!

Cheers!

-B

{ the first thing you see when you walk in - the brewery }

{ a picture wouldn't be complete without two thumbs up }

{ the list of brews to choose from }

{ Cicerone Lacey }

{ beer flight }

{ saloon type doors in the ladies bathroom }

Its a Polish thing!

Happy Dyngus Day! Today is one of the best days of the year! Buffalo hosts the largest organized Dyngus Day celebration in the world according to Wikipedia and honestly I believe it. Thousands upon thousands of people (not even Polish heritage) come down to the historic Polonia District on the east side of Buffalo to celebrate the festivities, show Polish pride, flirt with Pussy willows and squirt guns and listen to the best polka bands around.

While I choose to celebrate at St. Stanislaus and the Central Terminal, other local bars and venues host opportunities to polka, drink some Tyskie beer and enjoy the start of spring. Some are the Polish Villa on Harlem Rd., Pott's Banquet Hall, and Black Rock Kitchen just a few to name. For a full list of places go here.

If you're planning or thinking of coming out stay up to date on best places to park, etc. on Dyngus Day Buffalo's Facebook Page.

Remember to wear red!

-B

Friday Favorites!

I'm looking forward to the Easter weekend and getting to spend the next few days in my old neighborhood celebrating the holiday and just having a little fun! Have a wonderful holiday!

-B

{ My friend Jen sent this to me and I absolutely love this shirt! I wish they had it in my size. #QueenB }

{ Some times I enjoy rainy days, just so I can catch up on things indoors. I love the tips from Birchbox }

{ Downtown Buffalo on a weekday afternoon }

{ Tickets are on sale now to one of my favorite summer events Wines in the Wild at the Buffalo Zoo. The event sells out every year. If you need tickets I'm your gal }

{ First ice cream since the warm weather hit WNY }

East Side Tradition

 

A tradition my family and I have had for many years is going to the Broadway Market and picking up all of our essential Easter needs { eggs, polish sausage, pierogi, butter lamb, platzek, pussy willows, etc. }. As I've gotten older I have appreciated the family time more. There's something about visiting the neighborhood you grew up in and thinking about all the memories you had when you were younger that makes this time of year more special to me. While most people only visit the market during this time of year, it is open ALL year round. If you've never been there before there's still time to make a visit, be prepared to wait in lines and be patient.

-B

 

{ The essential Easter needs, pastries and beads }

{ A staple in the Broadway Market }

{ A great place to go for all of your Polish souvenir/Dyngus Day needs }

{ Potts Deli - first time eating there and it was great! } 

{ BBQ Hamburger and Potato Pierogi at Potts }

#BuffaloLinks

1. Barre Centric is hosting a Barre class at one of my favorite locations in Orchard Park, Research and Design on April 23 from 7-9pm. RSVP for your spot.

2. One of my favorite blogs to read is from EmJay Fit. A local Western New York trainer who teaches you how to be the healthiest you can be. Check it out!

3. Polish festivities are taking shape this week. With events being held at the Broadway Market and Dyngus Day events happening next Monday. I can't wait to check out what St. Stanislaus has in store. Make sure you get your squirt guns and pussy willows!

4. I started following Her Story Boutique on Instagram and need to make it on my list of places to stop into next time I'm on Elmwood. I love the pictures they post. From the looks of it, it looks like its my style.

5. I can't wait for the warm summer months when I go back to Lewiston and can stop by the Brickyard for a pulled pork sandwich and a nice cold beer on their patio.

-B

Sweet Treats

Have you seen the commercial running on television showing the Mom making rice krispy treats with her kids, but in the shape of eggs. Well whether you have or haven't, in the Easter spirit my niece and I made them over the weekend.

In my first ever attempt to make rice krispy treats I picked up all the necessary ingredients: Marshmallows, Rice Krispy cereal and M&M's.

Most of you probably know how to make rice krispy treats, but in any case, first take 3 tablespoons of margarine or butter and melt in a microwavable bowl. Then take the marshmallows and in the same microwavable bowl with melted margarine or butter cook on high for 1 minute or until they are melted. Once melted add three cups of rice krispy's and mix together. My niece added in the M&M's while I was stirring all the ingredients together. You can then spread the rice krispy treats onto a cooking pan and serve or for the Easter holiday shape into eggs and put M&M's inside for an "extra" sweet treat. Enjoy!

-B

Friday Favorites!

I'm not going to lie when I say I've been a "little" moody the last few days. I think when there is a lot going on you sometimes can get overwhelmed and forget to take a deep breath. I'm hoping the nicer weather will help lift my spirits. Have a good weekend! -B

{ I love flowers, even when they aren't for me. This is a beautiful arrangement my Mom received from our neighbors }

{ I love this box, call me weird but sometimes you just need to make a statement to get recognized }

{ My dad, cousin Jolleen and I helping out at my cousins benefit last weekend. I love my family }

{ I had to snap this photo of the sunset while I was out for my run this week. So pretty }

#BuffaloLinks

I don't spend a lot of time in Niagara County, not because I don't want to, but just because I really don't have a reason to go North unless I'm visiting some of my family. This past weekend I was out that way and got to thinking that with summer coming I have to make a list of places to check out in that area.

Some places being the Lockport Locks and Erie Canal cruises. I think when you know the history that sits in your own back yard you appreciate the place you call home.

Niagara on the Lake is another place I would like to explore. Maybe spend a relaxing weekend or day visiting the vineyards on the lake. Its just a short drive over the border.

The Niagara Aerospace Museum. This looks like a neat place to go and learn about aviation and see some aircraft displays.

Newfane NY, While you would think there is nothing to do in that area, heading to a "smaller" small town and walking up and down the streets checking out the shops and restaurants. Sometimes its nice to get away and leave the "bigger" city behind and get back to basics.

Bacchus!

The second stop I made for restaurant week was at Bacchus. Located on the corner of Franklin and Chippewa, I've always heard friends say how much they enjoyed this place, but I had never been there to eat before. The bar is "roomy" and has enough space to make you feel comfortable as you wait for your table and the live band that performs on the first Friday of each month was something my friends and I didn't expect. The valet service is also a plus for when you don't want to try and find parking downtown or pay to park in the ramp.

The food was delicious, everything from the calamari to the ahi tuna and baked apple pie was amazing. The service again though was a little slow. It wasn't as bad as it was at Boss, but tables that came in after us were served before us and we had to flag down our waiter a couple of times.

I however would definitely go back as its a nice, fancier place to go before going to see a show at Shea's or other special events  downtown. They also have a private banquet area for bigger and/or private parties.

Have you been? What do you think? What are some of the restaurants you went to for local restaurant week? Any "must go-to spots?" Let me know!

-B

{ Ahi Tuna }

{ I loved the wine corks in vases that decorated the walls }

{ Bacchus Features }

{ Live band that performed during dinner }

{ Wine anyone? }

{ I love the bar area, the bartender wasn't that bad to look at either ;) }

{ Hostess area }

Buffalo's Original Steak & Seafood

Last week for Local Restaurant week I didn't get to check out all the places I wanted to, but I did get to have dinner at a couple of new places I haven't been to yet. With that being said I thought today and tomorrow I would give my reviews on the restaurants I went to.

Today I'm talking about Boss {Buffalo's Original Steak & Seafood}. Boss is located where Fiamma Steakhouse used to be on Hertel Ave. by Starin. Being that it was local restaurant week my friends and I made reservations in advance and grabbed a glass of wine at the bar before going to our table. While I knew the restaurant was under new management the décor for the most part had stayed the same. The overall experience from service to food to décor I thought it was "eh, ok.".

The service wasn't the best, it was kind of slow {we had 6:30pm reservations and didn't leave until 10:30pm!}. Granted my friends and I were talking, but there were times when we looked at each other like where is our food, where is the bill. The food overall was just ok too. I wasn't impressed. We all ordered the chopped salad which was really good, and my friends all had steak and I ordered the salmon. The salmon was plain, it didn't have a lot of taste to it and for the steak, the seasoning was strong and spicy. I honestly preferred the old Fiamma over Boss.

Don't get me wrong I don't like giving bad reviews and I'm by no means a food critic, but I like to give my honest opinion and being that the restaurant wasn't busy {not all the tables were filled with people} I don't know why it was so slow. I know the owners of Boss also own Bambino Bar & Kitchen and I've only ever been there for a couple drinks so I can't compare if it was an "off" day or not.

Have you been there? What do you think?  While the first stop on my restaurant week wasn't that great make sure to see tomorrow's review I have on Bacchus.

-B

{ Chopped salad was good! }

{ Salmon with Arugula salad }

{ One thing I did love - the "personalized B" purse holder }