My Good Luck Elephant

Saturday I was lucky enough to finally meet the one animal I am literally in love with at the Zoo, no not Luna {though she is up there} it was Surapa the Asian Elephant. She has been at the Buffalo Zoo since she was a baby. Elephants are one of my favorite animals ever, so having the chance to meet her up close, feed her celery, watch her paint and do some tricks was one of the best things I've ever had the opportunity to do. Having my niece and sister with me made it even more special. Mindy her trainer was awesome, she gave us a background on the elephants, the elephant house and what she does there. Overall it was a great time and I couldn't be luckier. I was able to cross something off my bucket list. While we were there we also stopped by to see Luna and Kali and many more animals. Don't forget that you can see the animals at Buffalove Fest on May 30 at the Zoo. Proceeds go directly back to helping the animals!

-B

{ trunks up mean good luck }

{ she has some artistic skills }

{ showing off her moves }

{ I love this picture }

{ the lion was looking at us when we were waving }

{ up close }

{ what are you looking at?!? }

{ just having a good time }

{ morning swim }

Rock On?!?

Last Monday, I attended my first "rock" show with two of my co-workers. I didn't know what to expect and well I didn't know if I would be able to stand through the music, I don't really listen to rock music. I however, had a great time. The concert was held at the beautiful Rapids Theater in Niagara Falls and Jeff and Rob were great at prepping me for what to expect. We saw Digital Summer, Trivium and Volbeat. I will admit once Trivium took the stage I thought a fight broke loose, but it was only the mosh pit that formed. It was quite distracting as I was more interested in the people bouncing off of one another than the band on the stage. For the headliner, Volbeat the music was a little "softer" and there were actually a few songs I bobbed my head too. Overall, it was a great experience and I would definitely attend another show with the guys again. I don't know if I can say I'm a "rocker chick" now, but I may use that term from time to time. Thanks Jeff and Rob for taking me under your wings and showing me how to rock. #Rockon

-B

{7 Things I've learned from the rock concert}

1. Be prepared to see people crowd surfing

2. When you fall in the mosh pit, they help you back up.

3. You have to wear at least one thing that is black

4. It took me 3 beers exactly to "let loose"

5. The girls that attend these shows are tough!

6. Be prepared to stand close to people.

7. I tried understanding what the band was singing and even saying for that matter...DON'T, just go with it! Halfway through the 2nd act I gave up trying to understand what they were saying.

{Videos}

rock concert video

rock concert vid 2

{ Getting ready for the show to start }

{ Rock On }

{ The mosh pit }

{ The bar at Rapids }

{ Balcony area }

{ Entering through the doors }

{ Digital Summer }

{ Trivium }

{ Volbeat }

{ I survived }

Friday Favorites!

The week has come to an end and I'm looking forward to meeting Surapa the Elephant tomorrow at the Buffalo Zoo, I'm like a little kid in a candy shop that's how excited I am! My parents leave for Europe this weekend. I was lucky enough to go overseas while I was in high school and it was amazing. Learning about different cultures, being in a different environment, makes me so excited for my parents because I know they're going to have a great time. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and for all you Mother's out there, have a wonderful Mother's Day because you deserve it! xo

-B

{ Don't ever stop dreaming }

{ Kickoff to Food Truck Tuesdays at Larkin Square started this past week }

{ Because I couldn't not snap a photo of this license plate }

{ I'm not big on buffets because I can never eat my money's worth, but I do love this chandelier at the Chinese buffet, so pretty }

{ My first time eating at Lloyds Taco Truck and their tacos are delicious, fresh and oh so good! }

#BuffaloLinks

I'm looking forward to hearing the lineup for who will be performing at this years Canalside Concerts. Find out today at 5:30pm

Stop by Fat Bob's on Friday for this fun event The Dude Hates Cancer. Proceeds benefit The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

The students in the Fashion & Textile class at Buff State are showcasing their work Saturday at the annual Runway 7.0 event. There are 2 shows {3pm & 8pm} stop out and see how talented these students are!

As I made a visit to General Mills this week I saw a sign for River Works coming soon. I can't wait to see these grain elevators transformed into breweries and attractions for people in the area. This area is full of so much history that many don't know about, it only makes me want to learn more about Buffalo history.

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