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2018 Lake Charles, Louisiana | Day 2

January 5, 2018 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

2018 | 005/365 | Golden Nugget Casino | Lake Charles, Louisiana | Slot Winner

[2018] 005/365: Cashing Out

Steamboat Bill's Seafood Restaurant | Lake Charles, Louisiana

Scruffy started the day working while I slept in a bit more then we both headed to lunch at Steamboat Bill’s Seafood Restaurant.

Steamboat Bill's Seafood Restaurant | Lake Charles, Louisiana | Shrimp & Crawfish Pistolettes, Boudin Ball, & Small Platter

Shrimp Pistolette | $1.99; Crawfish Pistolette | $2.29; Boudin Ball | $1.99; Small Platter [stuffed shrimp, fried fish, stuffed crab, 10-20 medium shrimp, fries, cole slaw, & Louisiana roll] | $19.99

We’ve learned we don’t need to order as much food as we use to so we usually order a plate and something on the side. Since crawfish wasn’t in season we both loved the shrimp pistolette more. Boudin ball wasn’t too bad but wasn’t the best and out of the small platter the best was the fish and shrimp.

Golden Nugget Casino | Lake Charles, Louisiana

We then headed to Golden Nugget Casino. We both won more than we spent so that’s a good feeling.

Crying Eagle Brewing Company | Lake Charles, Louisiana

We cashed out then went to the store to buy some knickknacks. We went back home where I took a short nap and he worked before we headed off to Crying Eagle Brewing Company.

Crying Eagle Brewing Company | Lake Charles, Louisiana | Beers

I got the one beer while Scruffy had five. We played Ascension on the IPad while we sipped. Its a free app!! Everyone should try it out!

Crying Eagle Brewing Company | Lake Charles, Louisiana | Gift Shop

The brewing company had a gift shop and it was nice walking through it to see things like this cup. Too funny.

Calla | Lake Charles, Louisiana

We went back home, debated to go to a casino buffet or not and ended up at Calla.

Calla | Lake Charles, Louisiana | Old Fashioned and Bone Marrow

Bone Marrow [with onion jam, herb salad, toast] | $17

Scruffy got the Old Fashioned while I sipped on water – I’m a good DD. We shared the bone marrow and though we weren’t disappointed, we didn’t truly know how delicious it was until the second one. The waiter brought another out for the man who was sitting next to us a minute ago. He had paid and left, forgetting (he was drunk) he ordered bone marrow. The nice bartender offered it to us free of charge! Free food always taste better!

Isle of Capri Casino | Lake Charles, Louisiana

The last casino of the night was at Isle of Capri Casino. I was not a big fan of this place since it reeked of smoke. Everyone could smoke wherever they stood. Ugh! I wished I had known before we walked in. It wasn’t a great start – I left Scruffy when he was down eighty dollars and when I got back, he had a smile and was up forty so we bid farewell to this stinky, smokey place.

Dairy Queen | Lake Charles, Louisiana

We stopped by Dairy Queen. I got a mini M&M ice cream – still too much for me. Scruffy got steak fingers. We headed home and he is waiting patiently for me to type this up so that we could watch Game of Thrones before calling it a night.

We are thinking of eating at a casino buffet tomorrow. Eeep, cannot wait!

Steamboat Bill’s Seafood Restaurant
732 S Martin Luther King Hwy, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601  |  (337) 494-1700  |  Website  |  Yelp
Golden Nugget Casino
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601  |  (337) 508-7777  |  Website  |  Yelp
Crying Eagle Brewing Company
1165 E Mcneese St, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70607  |  (337) 494-1700  |  Website  |  Yelp
Calla
1400 Market St, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601  |  (337) 419-1980  |  Website  |  Yelp
Isle of Capri Casino
732 S Martin Luther King Hwy, Lake Charles, Louisiana  |  (337) 494-1700  |  Website  |  Yelp
Dairy Queen
732 S Martin Luther King Hwy, Lake Charles, Louisiana  |  (337) 494-1700  |  Website  |  Yelp

 

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Breweries, Casinos, Fast Food, Ice Cream, Project 365, Seafood, Sightseeing

Patricia’s Friendsgiving/White Elephant Party | San Antonio, Texas

December 4, 2017 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Last weekend Patricia was throwing a Friendsgiving/White Elephant party so Scruffy and I made plans to go up for a quick trip.

Rolling FIsh Sushi Burrito & Poke | San Antonio, Texas | Unagi and Salmon Poke Bowl

On Thursday we left his house to mine, switched cars and traveled up to San Antonio in time for a late lunch at Rolling Fish Sushi Burrito & Poke. We shared an unagi and salmon poke bowl with everything in it.

Hotel Alcohol Party

We then headed to HEB and Specs before checking into our hotel where we pretty much spent the rest of the night drinking and doing a whole lot of nothing. It was very relaxing having just us two.

Church's Chicken | San Antonio, Texas

We saw a commercial for Popeye’s but since it was so far away we brought back some Church’s to the hotel room where we ate and watched telly before calling it a night.

La Quinta | San Antonio, Texas | Hotel Breakfast

On Friday, we woke up for a hotel breakfast and Scruffy worked a bit while searched for jobs before we headed off to lunch.

Taqueria Datapoint | San Antonio, Texas | Mini Tacos

I always try to hit up Taqueria Datapoint when I’m in town and was ecstatic when he agreed to go with me. We shared a plate of mini tacos since we had plans to drink and eat something else soon.

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium | San Antonio, Texas | Beers

We jumped from Big Hops Huebner to Flying Saucer Draught Emporium for a few beers before heading back to the hotel. We relaxed at the hotel for a bit before heading back out for a quick early dinner.

Smashin Crab | San Antonio, Texas | Half Dozen Raw Oysters

Half Dozen Raw Oysters | $12

We made plans to hit up Smashin Crab (for me because I love seafood boils) and then hit up somewhere else for him. Once we sat down and got our food, going somewhere else was out the window. We started out with half a platter of oysters and a pound of shrimp with potatoes, corn, and sausages.

Smashin Crab | San Antonio, Texas | Shrimp Boil with Potatoes, Corn, and Sausages

Shrimp Boil [trinity sauce and level 3 alarm heat] | $14/lb + $1/corn + $0.50/potato + $2/sausage (4 pieces)

Soon enough we were ordering another pound of shrimp, potatoes, and corn. My goodness gracious. This is the best seafood boil I’ve been to and Scruffy agrees. We will be coming back once crawfish season is in. Yum!

2017 Patricia's Friendsgiving/White Elephant

We stopped by HEB then went back to the hotel for to get ready for Patricia’s party. We all drank, caught up, and played white elephant before calling it a night. It was nice to finally meet Patricia’s boyfriend and to see everyone else. Every time I go back I wished I lived there. Once we were back at the hotel, Scruffy started getting hungry and we ordered Uber for McDonald’s and soon realized we had too much food and not a big enough stomach. Before long, we both knocked out.

Breakfast at Patricia's

Patricia invited us for breakfast so when we woke up Saturday morning, we packed our car and headed over to her house for a delicious home cooked breakfast, bid our farewells, and headed back home towards Scruffy’s house, stopping by Buccee’s for Scruffy to grab a taco to go.

Luna Car Ride

We stopped by Andrew’s house before ending up at Scruffy’s where we picked Luna up and headed back to my house.

Scruffy and I | Homemade Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, Salad, and Garlic Bread

Homemade Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, Salad, and Garlic Bread

Scruffy and I made Fettuccine Alfredo, garlic bread, and salad for dinner. The family and Tim seemed to love it. With all the traveling, Scruffy and I watched telly and fell asleep.

Tasty Ko | Katy, Texas | Spicy Bulgogi and Soondubu Chigae

Spicy Bulgogi and Soondubu Chigae

Before Scruffy left on Sunday, we had lunch at Tasty Ko. Delicious Bulgogi and Soondubu Chigae. Yum. It was perfect since it was cold and raining.

New favourite restaurant: Smashin Crab. I am jealous of everyone who lives in San Antonio.

Rolling Fish Sushi Burrito & Poke
12730 Interstate 10 W, San Antonio, TX 78230  |  (210) 592-1003  |  Yelp
Church’s
9405 Guilbeau Rd, San Antonio, TX 78250  |  (210) 684-1407  |  Website  |  Yelp
Taqueria Datapoint
4063 Medical Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229  |  (210) 615-3644  |  Yelp
Big Hops Huebner
11224 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78230  |  (210) 877-9663  |  Website  |  Yelp
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
11255 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78230  |  (210) 696-5080  |  Website  |  Yelp
Smashin Crab
8910 Bandera Rd, San Antonio, TX 78250  |  (210) 509-7702  |  Website  |  Yelp
Tasty Ko
1645 Winding Hollow Dr, Katy, TX 77450  |  (281) 206-7471  |  Website  |  Yelp

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Asian, Bars and Pubs, Breakfast and Brunch, Breweries, Fast Food, Japanese, Katy, Korean, Mexican and Tex-Mex, San Antonio, Seafood, Sushi, Texas

Reunions, Oreo Cheesecake Macaron, and Feasting It Up

October 23, 2017 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Last week was one of the busiest I’ve had in a long time and I loved it!

Jinya Ramen Bar | Katy, Texas | Trisha

Tuesday, October 17th

Trisha was in town for work and was able to hang out for a couple of hours. We chose Jinya Ramen Bar – perfect timing since it was happy hour time.

Jinya Ramen Bar | Katy, Texas | Sprouting Up Ramen, Crispy Chicken, Jinya Buns, Caramelized Cauliflower

Sprouting Up Ramen [pork and chicken broth, pork chashu, kikurage, spicy bean sprouts, green onion, half seasoned egg, crispy brussels sprouts, black pepper, ginger, served with thick noodles]; Crispy chicken [juicy fried chicken thigh with original garlic pepper served with mixed baby greens and Jinya’s original ponzu sauce]; Jinya Bun [steamed bun stuffed with slow-braised pork chashu, cucumber, and baby mixed greens served with Jinya’s original bun sauce and kewpie mayonnaise]; Caramelized Cauliflower [caramelized cauliflower with toasted pine nuts, crispy mint leaves, and lime sauce]

We ordered so much food. The best thing there are the buns! (We both had two each.) It was sad to see her go but always swell getting to catch up with her busy life. This was also the day I got a nail in my car. Whomp, whomp. Luckily whenI took it in the next day, they were able to mend it for free! #winning

Wednesday, October 18th

Saeed's Mediterranean Grill | Houston, Texas

Juhi, Erin, and I went to Saeed’s Mediterranean Grill for lunch.

Saeed's Mediterranean Grill | Houston, Texas | Combo Plate #2

Combo Plate #2 [chicken shawarma & gyro served with two sides (spicy hummus & green beans) and pita bread] | $11.99

The food isn’t the best I’ve ever had but it was good enough to where I’d come back. I prefer the gyro meat over the chicken shawarma. The chicken was too dry. If you run out of pita, just ask them for more, it’s free!

Thursday, October 19th

Wood Painting Quote | Love grows best in little houses just like this

Zuco and I signed up to do a wood painting class but due to food poisoning on my end, we had to cancel. Luckily we were able to get the materials from the “teacher” and do them ourselves.

Wood Painting Quote | Start each day with a grateful heart

I finally got to see her new place and we ate pizza with Kemp before we started. It’s so rare to see her nowadays so I cherish it tremendously.

Friday, October 20th

Los Balito's Taco Shop | Katy, Texas | Mini Tacos & Carne Asada Fries

Mini Tacos [barbacoa, pastor, and carne asada]; Carne asada fries

I went and picked up breakfast for Ann and I at Los Balito’s Taco Shop then I headed to Ann’s parents’ house where we caught up. I haven’t seen or talked to her like we did in forever so it was nice to do so.

Baby Colsen

I finally got to meet little Colsen. He is so adorable! And so much hair! Reminds me of his Uncle Tony. Soon enough it was his nap time and time for me to skedaddle. I went and picked up my contacts, cashed in a check at the bank, went to WalMart to pick up parchment paper, and gased up the car. I sat waiting for Juhi since her doctor’s appointment ran late.

Oreo Cheesecake Macaron with Juhi

An hour plus later, Juhi arrived and we started our baking. I measured out the ingredients as she chomped down on Whataburger. We’ve been wanting to make macarons and finally found a day we were both free!

Juhi's Roommate's Sphynx Cats

Her roommate had these two kitties … furless kitties. They’re so playful. I describe touching them as like when a guy shaves his head and you touch that. Exactly the same.

Juhi's Hamster

When we were waiting for the macarons to set on the counter, I met her pet hamster. Cutest and shyest little thing. Soon enough it was time to put the first batch in the oven. We were worried they were going to turn out horrific.

Oreo Cheesecake Macaron Shell with Juhi

The majority came out looking like this. Shiney top shell with a foot! We were so proud. Especially since we went through a lot of trail and error to get to this point!

Oreo Cheesecake Macarons with Juhi

The final macaron in all its glory. We definitely put way too much filling inside. Whoops! But we were proud of them regardless. I went to Scruffy’s afterward for dinner of ribs, shredded pork, and coleslaw. A little bit of Super Mario, Astros, then bedtime.

Saturday, October 21st

Hickory Hollow | Houston, Texas | Large Rancher Chicken Fried Steak with sides

Large Rancher Chicken Fried Steak [with 2 sides (mac ‘n’ cheese and loaded mashed potatoes) and gravy on the side] | $14.99; Southern Green Beans; Hot Tots [spicy potato puffs]; Fried Okra

Rami invited us over to hang out along with his parents so for lunch we went to Hickory Hollow. I wouldn’t say it’s the best chicken fried steak since the breading falls off but it’s not bad. The best thing there are the hot tots so don’t forget to order those.

8th Wonder Brewery | Houston, Texas

After hanging out at his place a while longer Scruffy and I left and headed to Sissy’s and BIL’s where we later walked to 8th Wonder Brewery. I didn’t really drink but I didn’t mind sitting there. They changed up the place so now it’s indoor with ac. I guess they realized how much business they lost in the summertime.

Sissy & BIL | Grilling

We went back to their place where we played board games, grilled and had dinner, and watched the Astros game. RIght when the game ended Scruffy and I scurried away so that we wouldn’t get stuck in traffic. Once we got back he went to play video games with his buddies and I watched telly while I searched for jobs before heading off to bed.

Sunday, October 22nd

Ramble Creek Grill | Richmond, Texas

We woke up and headed over the Andrew’s. Scruffy’s usual Sunday plans. How cute are they?

Then we went to Ramble Creek Grill for burgers.

Ramble Creek Grill | Richmond, Texas | All Jacked Up Burger

All Jacked Up [Monterey Jack cheese, jalapenos, grilled onions, lettuce, tomatoes and Ramble sauce] | $9.99 – tater tots instead of fries +$1.50

Scruffy opted for tater tots which I will say tastes way better than the fries.

Ramble Creek Grill | Richmond, Texas | The Rambler Burger

The Rambler [Cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, grilled onions and Ramble Sauce] | $10.99 – with chili cheese fries

I opted for chili cheese fries and I’ve decided next time I come, I’ll just get the tater tots and ask for the chili cheese to be on the side so that they stay crispy. Also, their bacon isn’t good for burgers. They fry it up real nice so it tastes delicious but the way they curl up does not fit in the burger. Instead if took it out and shared it with Scruffy to eat like a chip. Also the egg didn’t run so that made for a sad reveal.

Since there was so much to do on the weekends, it went by too quickly. I cannot wait for a free weekend to do nothing but relax. Scruffy and I have coupons for a massage and I so badly want to use it soon.

Jinya Ramen Bar
21788 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77449  |  (832) 321-3087  |  Website  |  Yelp
Saeed’s Mediterranean Grill
14779 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079  |  (832) 296-9286  |  Yelp
Los Balito’s Taco Shop
3200 S Fry Rd, Katy, TX 77450  |  (281) 717-8950  |  Website  |  Yelp
Hickory Hollow
8038 Fallbrook Dr, Houston, TX 77064  |  (281) 469-5323  |  Website  |  Yelp
8th Wonder Brewery
2202 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77003  |  (713) 229-0868  |  Website  |  Yelp
Ramble Creek Grill
734 Crabb River Rd, Richmond, TX 77469  |  (832) 759-5939  |  Yelp

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Art, Barbecue, Breweries, Dessert, Japanese, Macarons, Mediterranean, Mexican and Tex-Mex, Sandwiches and Burgers

2017 Illinois & Wisconsin Trip for Sarah’s & Jacky’s Wedding

October 2, 2017 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Houston to Chicago | United Ticket

On Wednesday, September 20th, I packed my bags and bid farewell to Rizzo then headed over to Sissy’s with her and Tim. We spent the night and woke up a couple of hours later, Thursday, where I was devastated to find that I forgot to pack my jeans.

Houston to Chicago | Stroopwafel

Anyone who knows me knows that I cannot stand sitting in many public seats without my legs covered up due to the nasty seats. But I prevailed – I put on my athletic shorts and we carried on for our five am flight where they gave out Stroopwafles as a snack.

Ventra Transit Card | Chicago, Illinois

We landed at eight and bought a day’s worth of public transportation.

Trains | Chicago, Illinois

After a fairly long train ride and a short walk later, we checked into our hotels, threw our bags in the room and headed off to breakfast.

Yolk | Chicago, Illinois

After a short walk, we ended up at Yolk.

Yolk | Chicago, Illinois | Countryside Skillet

Countryside Skillet [seasoned potatoes, bacon, ham, sausage, mushroom, onion, green pepper, cheddar. Two eggs any style. Side of country sausage gravy. Toast, pancakes, or english muffin.] | $14

They messed up mine and BIL’s order but other than that, it was delicious! Too much food for one person!

Chicago Riverwalk | Chicago, Illinois

We walked across the Chicago Riverwalk towards a Loft nearby just so I can buy a pair of jeans. Thank goodness! Such a beautiful view and look how scary it is that they all park backward in that garage!

The Cloud Gate | Chicago, Illinois | aka The Bean

Then we all headed to Millennium Park where we checked out the famous bean, The Cloud Gate. So many fingerprints were smeared all over that bean and I was sad to find that I couldn’t get a flawless picture because of it and I wasn’t about to wipe it down (shuddering at the thought of all the germs!).

Crown Fountain | Chicago, Illinois

And the Crown Fountain. I’m not too sure what the faces are about but there were so many little kids splashing around which was adorable.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois

After standing around for a while, we decided to hop on a bus to make use of our one-day transportation pass and headed to Navy Pier.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Bubble Machine

Navy Pier is right next to the Children’s Museum and therefore we saw a machine making many bubbles with little kids running through it.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Little Boy and Bubbles

Sissy and Tim played with the bubbles and said that it was super sticky so I can’t even imagine the parents having to clean these babies off!

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Margaritaville

We walked around the pier and due to the heat BIL got a margarita to go at Margaritaville while Tim and I got a cup of water.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Making History Chicago

I stopped into Making History Chicago, a souvenir shop for my usual postcard purchase before we headed outside.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Skyline

Look at that view. I wish I lived somewhere where I can walk and see this. But I probably won’t enjoy it as much if it was at my fingertips, though.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Spiderwebs

As we were walking back to the bus stop, we noticed a lot of spiderwebs all over the beautiful flowers so I just had to get a snap … and also because Scruffy hates spiders and Sissy and BIL thought it’d be funny to send him some love this way.

Navy Pier | Chicago, Illinois | Spiderwebs 2

I need to better my picture taking skills but you can make out that gorgeous spun web.

Goose Island Tap Room | Chicago, Illinois

We hopped on the Nordiac bus and a short walk later, we were at Goose Island Tap Room.

Goose Island Tap Room | Chicago, Illinois | Sofie

Goose Island Sofie | Saison Beer

We sat and chatted for a long while since we were drenched in sweat and dying from the heat.

Goose Island Tap Room | Chicago, Illinois | Hurricane Harvey Support

What a coincidence to see this sign. So much love coming all the way from Chicago.

Au Cheval | Chicago, Illinois

We were recommended to have dinner at Au Cheval and decided it was time to check out the reviews where we found out that the wait was going to be horrific. The boys chugged their beers and we headed there just in time because when we got seated, people started piling in.

Au Cheval | Chicago, Illinois | Crispy Fries with Egg

Crispy Fries [mornay sauce, garlic aioli, and fried farm egg] | $9.95

Sissy’s order. I’ve never had garlic aioli I wasn’t a fan of until now and only because the mornay sauce was the bomb!

Au Cheval | Chicago, Illinois | 32 oz Pork Porterhouse

32 oz pork porterhouse [foie gras and roasted apples] | $38.95

Apparently, the porterhouse (a two to three serving) has limited availability and BIL just had to order it. Tim and I declined to share since we wanted the burger (what they’re known for) but we did hint we wouldn’t mind trying a small piece. Towards the end, BIL shared a bit more than intended. Though it was good, I’m not a big fan of pork (other than the bone area) so not something I’d recommend though BIL and Tim probably will.

Au Cheval | Chicago, Illinois | Single Cheeseburger with Bacon and Egg

Single Cheeseburger | $11.95; Add bacon | $3.50, Add egg | $1.00

Tim and I both got the single cheeseburger with added egg. Tim added bacon as well so just picture mine without bacon. It also comes with a pickle. Delicious. Maybe I was super hungry but it could pass as one of the best burgers I’ve had in forever.

Au Cheval | Chicago, Illinois | French Fries

French Fries [garlic aioli] | $6.25

I didn’t know Sissy got fries so I ordered the regular and I kept trying to steal some of her mornay sauce. Without that sauce the fries aren’t worth the money.

Walgreens | Chicago, Illinois

We walked to Walgreens for water and little knickknacks we didn’t pack before heading back to the hotel and calling it a night. We slept like babies due to lack of sleep the night before.

Breakfast at the Hotel | Chicago, Illinois

We woke up Friday morning and had breakfast at the hotel.

Card Games at the Hotel | Chicago, Illinois

We played a couple rounds of some card game BIL brought with him (Gordon and Patsy stopped by to say hi since they had just landed) then packed up our bags, checked out, and checked in our bags at the concierge.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Chicago, Illinois

Then headed to Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. That was the reason for the card playing.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Chicago, Illinois | The Lou Personal Pizza

The Lou Personal Pizza [spinach mix (enhanced with garlic, basil & onion), mushrooms and sliced Roma tomatoes covered with three cheeses] | $10.25

Sissy being vegetarian got the personal pizza that served one and even then did not finish due to a heavier breakfast. It was good but the crust on the bottom was quite soggy due to all the veggies.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Chicago, Illinois | The Malnati Chicago Classic Large Pizza

The Malnati Chicago Classic Large Pizza [Lou’s lean sausage, some extra cheese and vine-ripened tomato sauce on Buttercrust] | $26.05

Tim, BIL, and I shared a large and though I am a lover of pan pizza, I will say, with all the ingredients in there, the crust on the bottom was still super crispy.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Chicago, Illinois | The Malnati Chicago Classic Large Pizza Sliced

Look at how the ingredients pile up! And there was still leftovers — the boys tried so hard to shove it down their throats and did not complete the challenge.

Hertz | Chicago, Illinois

We headed back to the hotel, got our luggage, and headed to Hertz to pick up our car.

Chicago, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin | Car Ride

We started our drive towards Madison, Wisconsin where I worked on updating and memorizing the wedding schedule and took a nap.

Check-In Goodie Bag | Madison, Wisconsin

Soon enough, we were checking into the hotel where we received goodie bags from the bride and groom.

The Great Dane | Madison, Wisconsin

After dropping our luggage off at our rooms we went to The Great Dane, a pub and brewing company.

The Great Dane | Madison, Wisconsin | Card Game

We ordered beers and snacks while playing Chinese card game.

The Great Dane | Madison, Wisconsin | Crop Circle Wheat

Crop Circle Wheat [60% wheat malt and imported German yeast and hops – refreshing and somewhat spicy, served unfiltered with a slice of lemon]

I got the sampler tasting cup size so it was only like a dollar something. So worth it since I don’t drink much. I wish more places did it that way!

The Great Dane | Madison, Wisconsin | Old Glory Cheese Curds

Old Glory Cheese Curds [over one-half pound of American Pale Ale hand-battered Ellsworth Wisconsin cheese curds served with a roasted Hatch green chili crema] | $9.25

It was nothing special. Tasted like fried mozzarella. No squeak, which is what I heard makes cheese curds, cheese curds.

The Great Dane | Madison, Wisconsin | Poutine

Poutine [fresh hot pub fries and Ellsworth Wisconsin garlic dill cheese curds finished with a rich gravy and minced chives] | $6.75

This was a better option, cheaper too than the cheese curds. We scarfed these down very quickly.

Lake | Madison, Wisconsin | Tree & Water

After, we dropped Tim off at Ichiban Sichuan for the wedding rehearsal dinner – without the rehearsal – and headed to the lake.

Lake | Madison, Wisconsin | Tree, Water, Rocks

We walked around and I was able to capture some shots.

Lake | Madison, Wisconsin | Ducks

I tried to capture the ducks and only got this good picture since seconds after this shot some kids ran up to them telling them to shoo away.

Graze | Madison, Wisconsin

We walked into Graze for dinner but due to a short wait, we took a walk around the capital.

Capital | Madison, Wisconsin

Look how it lights up!

Capital Reflection | Madison, Wisconsin

And how it reflects off the glass building across the street. Graze is located on the right of the building.

Graze | Madison, Wisconsin | Bibimbap

Bibimbap [choice of marinated: ground pork or tofu, crispy rice, sunny-side up egg, sauteed bok choy, market vegetables, spicy gochujang] | $16

Sissy ordered the bibimbap which was way better than I expected since I live in a city with a Chinatown.

Graze | Madison, Wisconsin | Pan Seared Gnocchi

Pan Seared Gnocchi [delicata squash, kale, chevre, honey crisp apples, cider redux, ground cherry brown butter] | $19

Though my gnocchi was to die for, especially the vegetables thrown in there, it was super expensive for the amount of food I got. I forgot that’s how fancy places are.

Walgreens | Madison, Wisconsin

We walked into Walgreens for my usual postcard purchase before we headed back to the hotel where I got ready for tomorrow’s big day while Sissy, BIL, and Tim played more card games.

Breakfast at the Hotel | Madison, Wisconsin

Saturday morning, Sarah and Jacky’s wedding day … but first breakfast at the hotel after a quick stop by Brudda’s and SIL’s room to pick up Emmy to join us.

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Chili Peppers

After breakfast, Emmy, Sissy, Brudda, SIL, BIL, and Peggy all went to Dane County Farmer’s Market. We kept bumping into people and it took us a while to realize that everyone was going in one direction and that it looped around the capital.

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Sunflower & Bee

Brudda and I took so many shots of sunflowers since the bees were buzzing. He has way better shots than mine (he has a better camera too) but it was fun getting to shoot alongside him since these moments are very rare now.

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Flowers

A bunch of various flowers was way cheaper than those we find here in Houston. I am not a lover of flowers but the colors captivated me.

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Tri-Colored Cauliflower

And the tri-color cauliflowers! I wished so bad that we had an extra day and a kitchen so that we could buy ingredients and make a meal!

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Smoothies

Everyone bough mango smoothies to beat the heat except for me. Does anyone else get even thirstier after drinking juices?

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Schroeder Kase

Soon enough we found a cheese curd stand worth stopping for, Schroeder Kase.

Dane County Farmer's Market | Madison, Wisconsin | Schroeder Kase Cheese Curds

I went crazy and bought a few bags and Sissy and BIL bought a couple. So much squeak! Sadly the squeak was gone when we got it home but a few short seconds in the microwave put the squeak back (a bit).

Fromagination | Madison, Wisconsin

One of the places I wanted to visit for cheese shopping was Fromagination so I was ecstatic to find out that it was at the same place as the market!

Fromagination | Madison, Wisconsin | Cheese Case Display

Look at all the cheese! SIL and I were able to try some before we made our purchases. Great customer service here.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Cake Table

We headed back to the hotel where I quickly picked up my things and headed to Olbrich Botanical Gardens with John, Tim, and Jo to set up the reception area. John and Tim got us Chickfila for lunch. Yum!

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Bride & Father of the Bride

After much set back the wedding was on its way. I was able to catch a shot of the bride and father of the bride as they walked down the aisle toward the groom and pastor. Not to toot my own horn but I love this shot and what this shot symbolizes.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Buffet Food

There was a buffet of food and I must say the best wedding food I’ve had ever … and I’ve been to many weddings!

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit

The bride and groom even paid for everyone at the wedding to attend the Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit which the gardens held for the public.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 2

There were lights hanging off and wrapped around trees and even lighted up sculptures. I love little lights! Sigh … so pretty. My photography skills are still lacking, but I am still going to share the pictures below.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 3

After cleaning up and making sure everyone has left the location we headed back to the hotel, changed, and packed up. Then it was a long drive back to the Chicago airport.

Chicago to Houston | United Ticket

Our flight was at five am Sunday so we didn’t get any sleep. We knocked out on the plane – I missed snack time! When we landed a little before eight am we stopped by Sissy’s and BIL’s house before heading home and dropping Tim off on the way.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 4

Once home we all took showers then headed to New Pho Katy with the family and Tim and all head back to our house where we played a few card games before Scruffy and Luna came over.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 5

We played a round of Camel Up before disbanding and calling it a day. We were all pooped and couldn’t wait to lay in bed and do nothing.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 6

I accepted when Sarah asked me to be her day of wedding coordinator. I’ve done certain parts of other weddings in the past but to be in control of a whole day was something I never imagined especially coming from my cousin! I can only hope I did a good enough job to where the bride and groom had a swell time. It was a great experience and I had fun doing it!

Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Madison, Wisconsin | Sarah & Jacky Wedding: Gleam: Art in a New Light Exhibit 7

Sarah and Jacky had their tea ceremony on Saturday, September 30th at her parents’ house and afterward, we all went to Sushi9. Scruffy got to experience how a tea ceremony kind of works and I was so thankful he showed up even though he was not feeling well. Trooper. Now that her wedding is over, who is next? Call me up. I can be your coordinator. hehe

Yolk
340 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654  |  (855) 328-9655  |  Website  |  Yelp
Chicago Riverwalk
400 E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601  |  Website  |  Yelp
Loft
51 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601  |  (312) 269-0301  |  Website  |  Yelp
Millennium Park
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602  |  (312) 742-1168  |  Website  |  Yelp
The Cloud Gate
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602  |  (312) 742-1168  |  Website  |  Yelp
Crown Fountain
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602  |  (312) 742-1168  |  Yelp
Navy Pier
600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611  |  (312) 595-7437  |  Website  |  Yelp
Margaritaville
700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611  |  (312) 496-3840  |  Website  |  Yelp
Making History Chicago
700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611  |  (312) 645-0062  |  Yelp
Goose Island Tap Room
1800 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612  |  (800) 466-7363  |  Website  |  Yelp
Au Cheval
800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607  |  (312) 929-4580  |  Website  |  Yelp
Walgreens
151 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601  |  (312) 863-4249  |  Yelp
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654  |  (312) 828-9800  |  Website  |  Yelp
Hertz
401 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610  |  (312) 372-7600  |  Yelp
The Great Dane
123 E Doty St, Madison, WI 53703  |  (608) 284-0000  |  Website  |  Yelp
Graze
1 S Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703  |  (608) 251-2700  |  Website  |  Yelp
Walgreens
15 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703  |  (608) 257-3814  |  Yelp
Dane’s County Farmers Market
2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703  |  (608) 455-1999  |  Website  |  Yelp
Fromagination
12 S Carroll St, Madison, WI 53703  |  (608) 255-2430  |  Website  |  Yelp
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704  |  (608) 246-4550  |  Website  |  Yelp
Pho Katy
811 S Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450  |  (281) 206-7933  |  Website  |  Yelp

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Bars and Pubs, Breakfast and Brunch, Breweries, Chicago, Houston, Illinois, Japanese, Katy, Madison, Pizza, Sandwiches and Burgers, Sightseeing, Sushi, Texas, Vietnamese, Wisconsin

Graduations, Birthdays, Crawfish, and More JJ

May 23, 2017 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Wild Wings Cafe | Katy, Texas | Michael and JJ

On Thursday at Wild Wing Cafe, Michael finally had a chance to meet JJ and even hold him. JJ wouldn’t have it though partly because it was nearing his bedtime. Mallory and I haven’t seen him since the high school reunion and figured it was time for a catch up.

La Madeline | Houston, Texas | Delisha, Fruit Tart

I met up with Delisha Friday at La Madeline for my belated birthday lunch. It was great getting to catch up with her and see how she’s doing. And she was nice enough to pay for my meal and even get me a fruit tart. #winning

Next Door Lounge | Houston, Texas | Red Sangria, Beer, Housemade Potato Chips with Jalapeño Feta Dip, and Housemade Angus Mini Meatballs

Red Sangria, Beer, Housemade Potato Chips with Jalapeño Feta Dip, and Housemade Angus Mini Meatballs

After Scruffy got off work, we went to Next Door Bar & Lounge for some drinks and snacks. Do not order their meatballs. They are five itty bitty things with mashed potatoes all around. Do go for the potato chips though. Their dip is out of this world! We also went to King’s Head Pub, his favourite bar place where Saleh came to join us.

2017 Ahmed and Noora Graduation Party

Then we all headed to Ahmed and Noora’s graduation party. They had such cute little cakes made. I didn’t try them but I heard they were delicious.

2017 Ahmed and Noora Graduation Meal

They even got Niko’s Niko’s catered! So much goodness on one plate!

Buffalo Bayou Brewery | Houston, Texas

Saturday morning Scruffy and I met up with Sissy and BIL for a chill drinking session at Buffalo Bayou Brewing. Two and I was done. Scruffy had like six and could keep going if we stayed any longer. Crazy boy. I’m hoping to come back for their better beers later in the year.

2017 Crawfish Boil

We then all went home and helped out for a family crawfish boil. Mmm … Dad went crazy and bought sixty pounds of crawfish for six people not counting Sissy who’s a vegetarian. Timothy came over later to help out then we played a few rounds of Camel Up and called it a night.

Hannah's 2017 Birthday Meal

Sunday afternoon was Hannah’s birthday celebration since her birthday was actually the day when Ahmed and Noora celebrated their graduation. All home cooked goodness. The chicken was the best thing ever along with the green beans.

Los Cucos | Katy, Texas | Scruffy and JJ

After work today Scruffy and I walked around the mall then headed to Los Cucos for dinner plans with Mallory and JJ. The first time Scruffy met JJ, he was asleep in his carrier but this time he was wide awake and he finally got to hold JJ. Too adorable.

Wild Wing Cafe
20940 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77449  |  (281) 647-9453  |  Website  |  Yelp
La Madeline
1560 Eldridge Pkwy, Houston, TX 77077  |  (281) 940-8516  |  Website  |  Yelp
Next Door Bar & Lounge
14714 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079  |  (281) 493-0307  |  Website  |  Yelp
King’s Head Pub
1809 Eldridge Pkwy, Houston, TX 77077  |  (832) 379-1000  |  Website  |  Yelp
Baffalo Bayou Brewing
5301 Nolda St, Houston, TX 77007  |  (713) 750-9795  |  Website  |  Yelp
Los Cucos Mexican Cafe
5305 Bell Patna Dr, Katy, TX 77494  |  (281) 644-6808  |  Website  |  Yelp

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Bakery, Bars and Pubs, Breweries, French, Houston, Katy, Mexican and Tex-Mex, Texas, Wine Bars

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