11.04.08
Get out and vote.
Today’s the day. Be sure to get out there and vote!
Not sure where to go? A list of Maricopa County polling locations can be found here. And, after you’ve done your civic duty and collected that “I Voted” sticker, drop by a nearby Starbucks for a free brewed coffee or Krispy Kreme for a free donut. Happy voting!
10.24.08
TGIF.
Some days, you just need a margarita. Today is one of those days.
Good thing I have dinner plans here tonight with four fabulous ladies. I’ve been there just once before, and loved the ambiance, the guacamole (of course), and the roasted tomato cream sauce that has just a hint of cinnamon. Yum.
If you don’t have plans for tonight and are looking for something fun, drop by Biltmore Fashion Park for a free outdoor showing of Sixteen Candles. Oh Jake Ryan…
10.23.08
Olive you.
When it comes to olives, people tend to fall into two groups: those who love them and those who loathe them. I happen to fall into the first group, and for my fellow olive lovers out there (shout out to Michelle!) I came across an exciting discovery today.
At Queen Creek Olive Mill, Arizona’s only working olive farm (who knew?), visitors can take a 30-minute tour of the groves and processing plant, enjoy a meal at del Piero, or peruse the gift shop for wines, stuffed olives and locally grown and produced olive oils. Tours are $5 and run every hour from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Sunday tours run from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. For more info, call 480-888-9290.
10.15.08
Fall favorites.
There are countless reasons why I love Fall - cooler weather, changing leaves, and pumpkins are just a few in my long list. Here are some favorites I’m excited for around the Valley:
Four Peaks Pumpkin Porter: Yes, it’s that time of year again when we can enjoy a delicious Pumpkin Porter on the patio at Four Peaks. Bonus - it’s cool enough now to actually enjoy sitting on the patio…
LGO Butterscotch Pudding: I think this one is pretty self explanatory. Take one glance in the case at LGO Grocery and I guarantee you’ll want to buy a cup right then and there.
The Farm at South Mountain: Finally open again for the season! Brunch anyone?
10.03.08
Fall is in the air.
This weekend, the weather here in Phoenix seems to finally be cooling down. It was a crisp 75 when I walked to my car this morning, and I just read that Sunday’s high might stay in the mid-80s! While it’s not quite enough to break out the sweaters and boots, it does make me want to start spending more time outside.
This Saturday marks the season opening of Vincent’s Saturday Camelback Market. Held in the parking lot of Vincent’s every Saturday from 9-1, the market is filled with vendors selling local produce, fresh fruits and a variety of other mouth-watering culinary delights. It’s also a good place to pick up gifts (said to be imported from the South of France. Tres chic.)
Speaking of Vincent’s, be sure to check out his newest project - fresh, wood-fired pizzas for just $8.
10.02.08
Movies al fresco.
Looking for something fun (and free) to do on a Friday night? I took a walk today during lunch and noticed a sign for Movies in the Park. While it’s no Bryant Park, this six-week event does feature a different classic movie each Friday at 7:30 on the Center Lawn at Biltmore Fashion Park. Check out the full schedule below or call 602-955-1963 for more details.
October 3– Casablanca
October 10– Goldfinger
October 17– Breakfast at Tiffany’s
October 24– Sixteen Candles
October 31– Psycho
November 7– An Affair to Remember
06.30.08
Independents Week
Want to save 20% at some great local restaurants and shops? I just came across this post on Chow Bella about Local First Arizona’s “Independents Week” running today through July 6. Just print out a Golden Ticket to get your discount at any of the 50 participating spots, including some of my favorites like Changing Hands and Duck and Decanter.
My spoon’s too big.
Good news for my fellow frozen yogurt lovers out there. TCBY isn’t the only place in the Valley to find that coveted dish of fro yo. Mike and I hit up the Golden Spoon in Mesa this weekend, and while we both took the simple route and had chocolate/vanilla swirl, they offer lots of interesting flavor choices (I’d totally be up for trying pumpkin, but not in June…) My favorite part of the visit: eating with a real (well, plastic) gold spoon. Yes, I’m easily amused.
Not near a Golden Spoon? Try another one of my favorite spots, Hogi Yogi. My friend Lauren and I spent a good portion of our college years (and income) at the old University Drive location. My personal favorite: vanilla with M&Ms or raspberries.
06.25.08
Uncertainty.
Lately I’ve been feeling very bored with my blog. I originally started a blog as part of a contest at work, but posts have become more of a chore than something fun so I’ve been thinking about changing it up a bit. Stay tuned.
05.07.08
Oh happy day.
Today is a joyous day for cupcake fans in the Valley. Sprinkles (see previous post) is finally opening at the corner of Scottsdale Rd. and Camelback. What flavors do they have, you ask? Here’s the flavor calendar. Now I just have to decide which one I want to try first…
