O-Town: Arabic Singing, Belly Dancing and Donald Duck

Is there a more magical place than Orlando, Florida?! The second you enter the city, you truly feel like you are in a different world and for some reason morph into a five year old version of yourself! The short weekend spent with my parents and sisters was filled to the brim with family gatherings, shopping breaks, and a trip to the Magic Kingdom! Our original purpose for planning this trip was to go to an Arabic concert with the majority of my family, which was characterized by lots of singing, dancing, and smiles! We topped off the weekend with a visit to the Disney's Magic Kingdom and although the park was filled with long lines and the weather was intermittent, we had a very fun time all together!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This is truly my favorite holiday of the year, mainly because it is always filled with lots of love, family, football, and food! I am so thankful for so many things, but mostly for my amazing family, wonderful group of friends, and incredible boyfriend. I hope that everyone has a very Happy Thanksgiving and remembers to give back to those in need. Check out the following opportunities available in Atlanta to do what you can to help others...

Hosea Feed the Hungry- volunteer or donate to their annual Thanksgiving Dinner at Turner Field by visiting HoseaFeedTheHungry.com.

Atlanta Red Cross- volunteer and donate your time to assist individuals and families who have been affected by the floods in Georgia by visiting AtlantaRedCross.org.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program- visit your local Simon Mall in the Atlanta area to provide new clothing and toys to children in need. For more information, please visit www.salvationarmyusa.org.

Habitat for Humanity- volunteer or donate towards helping families in need build a home by visiting www.habitat.org.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Restaurant Review: Mosaic

Nestled in the heart of Buckhead, Mosaic is such a nice place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and escape to your own little nook of the neighborhood. Matt and I had a great lunch there, which included their award-winning Trio of Kobe Beef Sliders (OH SO GOOD!) and their Mediterranean Wrap with fries. Both selections are absolutely amazing, and although the wait was a little longer than expected, the service was wonderful and the meal was delicious! A really nice place to go if you're looking to find an escape from the busy city life and have some time to enjoy causal American dining. 

Restaurant Review: Chequers Seafood Grill

For some of the best service, atmosphere, and seafood in Atlanta, you HAVE to try Chequers Seafood Grill! The restaurant is located down the street from Perimeter Mall, and has been one of the hidden gems of Atlanta since 1983. Matt recently took me there to celebrate my upcoming birthday (so sweet!), and we had an amazing time! We started out the meal with their famous Tuna Tartare (shown above to the left). The combination of the spicy tuna and the sweet pickled cucumbers made it my favorite dish of the night! I followed with the Black Grouper with delicious whipped yukon gold potatoes and asparagus, and Matt had the Mahi Mahi with Lobster Mac and Cheese and asparagus for his entree (shown above to the right). Oh, and how could we forget the sweet biscuits with fluffy butter! Oh so yummy! Finally, we ended the night with our last sips of wine and some delicious Warm Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake with a candle on top (shown above in the center). Perfection! :-)

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things...

Precious Pieces
I have fallen in love with the ever popular necklace company, Dogeared. Their designs are simple, usually characterized by a small charm on a thin metal or linen string. Celebrating their 3rd Anniversary, they now carry an extensive line of necklaces, bracelets, rings, leather journals, ornaments, and so much more! Shop online at Dogeared.com and receive 25% off on your entire order. Enter code HAPPYBDAY2009 at checkout.

Scents That Remind Me of the Season

I adore Fall, and love filling my home these warm scents! My favorites lately have been Bath and Body Works' Cinnamon Stick and Creamy Nutmeg candles! Redeem this coupon online or in-stores for $10 off any $30 purchase at Bath and Body Works!

Fall into the GAP

I've fallen in love with GAP's entire winter collection, especially their festive floor sets! They have the softest sweaters this season, in playful colors like Camel Heather and Purple Candy. The Luxe Crewneck and V-neck sweaters are now only $25! In addition to the amazing prices, enjoy 25% off your entire purchase online using coupon code GIFT123. Hurry though, these prices and deals are for a limited time only! Enjoy!

The Windy City: Architecture, Shopping, and Deep Dish Pizza

In late October, Matt and I packed our bags to head northbound, specifically to the beautiful city of Chicago for a weekend filled with sightseeing, friends, and lots of laughs! We arrived at Midway Airport early Thursday night and got greeted by beautiful Sue, hilarious Scaf, and a delicious Potbelly's sammy!

Although it was a cold and rainy weekend, we were able to explore parts of the city and visit all of the places Matt frequented as a student at DePaul University. Some of the highlights included... Millenium Park with the giant bean, Navy Pier, The Magnificient Mile, Irish Eyes Pub, Peaquods Pizza (YUM!), Wrigley Field, and Allendes for some late night Mexican food!

Chicago is such a beautiful city, and dare I say, quickly climbing up my list of top places to visit! (gasp! I have not forgotten about you, NYC!)