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2022 September | Mum’s Retirement, Game Night, Last Chemo, Spaying Artemis, Stargazing & A Whole Lot of Ethan

September 30, 2022 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

20220901 | Houston Restaurant Week | Mum | Astor Farm to Table | Katy, Texas

September 1, 2022

Due to such a busy month, I wasn’t able to take Mum on our usual mother daughter Houston Restaurant Week until this day. It was also to celebrate that she had retired! I chose Astor Farm to Table and it EXCEEDED my expectations. We use to love Peri Peri until it closed down near us and since then I’ve been trying to find a South African delight near us since. This is the winner.

From their bone marrow to their oxtail to their dessert. I don’t know what they put in it but I wanted it all again. Mum even asked for the hazelnut cake for her birthday because she loved it so much. She also loved the drink so much she was spewing random things which we had a great laugh about. I made a montage of some of those random things with video/pictures for our family to watch.

20220902 | Houston Restaurant Week | Alice Blue | Houston, Texas | Paola & Mellie Dee

September 2, 2022

I finally got to see Paola! We went to Alice Blue for Houston Restaurant Week lunch. The food was great. I loved how simple the mushroom dish was yet flavourful and filling.

It was nice to catch up with her and listen to her stories and I treasure the advice she gives me when I tell her my woes. She showed me around the area, letting me know which shops are some of her favourites which worked out as I needed a gift for Luke’s birthday.

20220902 | Mum's Retirement Party | Acadian Coast | Houston, Texas | Frankenstein & Mellie Dee

Later that night was retirement dinner at Acadian Coast for Mum. Frankenstein trekked his way over as well. Funny enough, the parents were going to go on a plane to Disneyworld to meet up with Brudda, SIL, Emmy and Ethan for a week of fun so they didn’t want to eat anything too crazy that could give them a stomachache. I on the other hand welcomed everything, especially the raw oysters. YUM!

There were many times Mum would tell me to stop grabbing things off his plate because he needs to eat. I translated that to him and he remarked that he didn’t mind. Also, hello, Mum, he’s welcome to grab off my plate as well!

20220903 | Luke's Birthday | Mellie Dee & Michelle

September 3, 2022

Luke’s birthday party finally arrived which also meant finally getting to see Michelle!! I loved watching how the kids interact with him. They were super caring and kept trying to feed Luke cake as he tried to flip it over.

20220903 | Game Night at Sissy & BIL | El Tiempo | Frankenstein & Mellie Dee

Later in the day I went over to Sissy & BIL’s for game night with Frankenstein. We played my favourite, Bananagrams, and though the name always escapes me, one my favourite games that BIL has. along with Tetris at the end. Frankenstein isn’t a fan of board games but he stayed through it all. I could see him getting tired toward the end. We did stop in between for El Tiempo but that probably just made him more sleepy.

20220904 | Stone Age | Belated 1:1 Birthday Dinner with June

September 4, 2022

I take June, every year, somewhere new for her birthday and although late, we landed on Stone Age. We had fun cooking on a hot rock and laughed a lot on our fails. This meal serves two but we felt it was too much food. I do like the place though and hoping we can come back again in the future.

20220905 | Twistee Treat | Mallory

September 5, 2022

I hung out with Mallory and she was nice enough to take me and the kids to Twistee’s for ice cream. I had been craving a dipped cone since forever. If you’re reading this, Mallory, when will you take us again?

20220907 | June Chemo

September 7, 2022

Last day of chemo. It gets harder at the end as your body gets weaker. In the beginning she would be able to have conversations but it quickly changed to her sleeping through most of it.

20220908 | Artemis Spaying Day

September 8, 2022

Artemis finally got spayed. These are the pictures Frankenstein sent me. She was so chill in the crate even though it was her first time out of the house since her capture. haha And after with her wearing her fancy neck pillow.

20220911 | Sissy Day | Manicure, Coffee, Macarons

September 11, 2022

Here is a small glimpse of my embroidery project. I had to finish it by October for someone’s wedding so I took it to places where I was able to work on it, i.e., the nail salon. Sissy didn’t want me to but I had to get it done! The ladies that worked there all loved it and came over to look. After our pedicures we went to Sweet intensity next door for some treats, macarons and iced coffees, since we didn’t do lunch.

20220912-20220913 | Workshop at Work

September 12 & 13, 2022

We had a two day workshop since many folks from out of town came in for the conferences and kickoff of a new thing. I was surprised with all the fidget toys the provided. Bet your ass they came home with me to fidget with while I was in meetings.

20220914 | Team Away Day | Escape Game | Masraff's | Houston, Texas

September 14, 2022

Our team did a half day away where we worked in the morning and went to The Escape Game’s Gold Rush experience. We escaped!! Then it was dinner at Masraff’s. This has quickly become one of my top restaurants work has taken us.

20220919 | WEN Mentoring | La Madeline

September 19, 2022

We had WEN mentoring session at La Madeline’s. It’s a different set up than my usual mentorship meetings but felt like this could be a good group. More than half did not show up though so I’m not sure.

20220924 | Mellie Dee & Ethan | Katherine & Karen's School Sale

September 24, 2022

Rose’s daughter’s, Karen and Katherine, had a school event where they have their own businesses and people go around and actually shop. I took Ethan and he had fun eating and drinking everything. I bought him some things and he picked some things out for Emmy as well.

20220924 | Stargazing with Frankenstein | Mellie Dee

Later that night Frankenstein picked me up. We stopped by Buccee’s, picking up dinner and headed to a remote location for star gazing. He set up his telescope and then we had dinner by car brake light. hehe You can’t tell what we were eating but there was a sausage, sandwiches and chips. We didn’t get to do much star gazing as the clouds decided not to cooperate. After a while, we packed up and went home.

20220930 | Elyson Cafe | Playdate | Mellie Dee, Ethan, Mallory, Jacob, Beth, Caden

September 30, 2022

Last playdate with JJ & Connor before he left back to Dallas and it had been a while since I’ve seen Mallory & Beth. There was another Mum with her kid there as well. This was also the first time I met Caden! He was itty bitty and kept mean mugging me whenever he woke up from his beauty sleep. We had lunch afterward before we all went our separate ways.

202209 | Ethan in Katy

Adventures with Ethan are always a whirlwind of fun. He loves to learn and help. Two top favourite memories from these pictures:

  1. He was afraid of the giant skeleton and warewolf on our walk. He didn’t want to walk on that side of the street but I made him. After staring at it and watching me take pictures of Rizzo with them, he turned around and said “Goojei, no scare, picture.” It was the cutest and we snapped a lot of pictures and he asked to go back a few times afterwards.
  2. He wanted to help me cook so he dragged his little stand chair over, helped me wash and clean the mushrooms and dropped them into the pan. He was so excited afterward and anyone that came to the kitchen after, he would tell them that he helped me cook it and they should eat it.

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Cajun, Coffee and Tea, Dessert, Houston, Houston Restaurant Week, Ice Cream, Katy, Korean, Mexican and Tex-Mex, Sandwiches and Burgers, Seafood, South African, South American

2022 July | Dig World, Frankenstein Meets the Family, Reunions, Astros, Planes, More Chemo & Embroidery

July 31, 2022 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

20220701 | Postino's Lunch | Katy, Texas | Anna & Aria

July 1, 2022

Went to Postino’s with Anna and her daughter Ari. We ordered practically everything on the menu and had so much fun talking about everything and nothing at all. I loved the food and know what I want next time I go. They accompanied me to Trader’s Joe because I wanted to buy some soup dumplings. I found out I’m one of Ari’s favourite people which is nice to know since she is a teen and they tend to not like anyone.

20220701 | Bucees & The Oaks for Dinner | Mum, Emmy, Ethan

I promised Emmy and Ethan I’d take them out so Mum joined and we went to Buccees to walk around and then ate dinner at The Oaks. The kids loved it and ran around everywhere afterward.

20220701 | Emmy, Ethan, Mellie Dee | Clay Painting & Light Up Balloons

I blew up light up balloons and they painted magnets. Sadly Emmy accidentally broke Ethan’s a few days later. Good thing he’s still young and does not even remember he made this or that it’s missing.

20220702 | Dig World | Katy, Texas | Emmy, Ethan, Mum, Mellie Dee, Michelle

July 2, 2022

Michelle and I made plans to take the kids to Dig World. SO SO COOL! I made Mum go with me since I couldn’t do both kids knowing how the rides were. Michelle brought along her parents as well.

Michelle and I didn’t get to spend as much time as we wanted but it was nice to see her and the kids outside of the house.

Overall it was a super fun experience but super hot one. We went and got Bonchon afterwards and the kids were SO thirsty and SO hungry that they ate the mostest. Then they passed out in the car when we were driving back home, stopping for some fireworks.

20220702 | Science Projects | Emmy & Ethan

I thought the kids would be tired when they got home. LIES. Once they were woken up from their car ride, they were running around like crazies.

I opened a science kit and we did some experiments. They loved it so much that they kept asking to do more and always point to the box when I open the “special” closet.

20220703 | Frankenstein Meets Parents, Emmy & Ethan | Hot Pot, Fourth of July Fireworks, HMart & Yan Tea | Sissy & BIL

July 3, 2022

The day started out with me tearing up as I did Emmy’s hair because I realized I probably won’t ever have my own kids. I’ve accepted it but it’s moments like these that makes me sad but blessed to have moments like these.

I then dropped Mum off at H-Mart while I took the kids next door to get smoothies, popcorn chicken and play games while we waited. They were complimented so many times on how well behaved they were.

Sissy & BIL came over to celebrate Fourth of July early. We played a new game where you use water to stick some foam stuff together to make things. This is also when Frankenstein met my family and this man went above and beyond, showing up with beers, flowers, Fourth of July cookies and chocolate covered pretzels.

We had hot pot for dinner, played games like Mister Murder (Emmy loved finding the murderer — eek) and did some fireworks. I loved seeing how he interacts with the kids. This was also the first time Rizzo did NOT bark at someone. Must be a sign … maybe? hahaha … maybe not. Overall, I think it went well.

20220705 | Emmy, Ethan, Mellie Dee

July 5, 2022

Towards the end of the work day they came upstairs and requested I sing and play guitar. After work we did bubbles, walked the dog, and did some arts and crafts. She loved the string heart and kept telling her Dad she wanted it in her room during their Facetime call.

20220707 | Ethan & Emmy | Day with Goojei

July 7, 2022

Dad was fine beginning of the day so I had to take care of them while I worked. I was excited I got to make them breakfast with Emmy’s help as Ethan slept. Emmy kept reminding Ethan that she helped make his food. I found activities to keep them busy while I was in calls and mostly kept quiet until I hung up the phone.

20220707 | Emmy & Mellie Dee | Longhorn Steakhouse, House of Pies | Katy, Texas

I took Emmy on a Auntie & Niece date since she was leaving that weekend. We stopped by Mallory’s and Beth’s houses to drop off gifts and headed to Longhorn Steakhouse (blood donation the next day) since someone was generous enough to give me a gift card there.

As we waited she sat and did her kids meal games and it’s so crazy how fast kids learn. She kept playing with it until the food came. And while we are we had conversations about random things.

She wanted to sit next to me when we were done eating and asked to take pictures with me. My heart.

we stopped at House of Pies to pick some up for Brudda and SIL since Brudda wanted some last time but didn’t get to.

20220708 | Inflatable Katy & Cocohodo | Katy, Texas | Emmy & Ethan

July 8, 2022

I went and donated some platelets and whatnot and got some cool gifts. They ran out of the 5 gallon mug so gave me a 1 gallon for now even though I already have one.

When I got back I took the kids to play at Inflatable Katy. No one was around so we literally had the whole place to ourselves. No compliants!

I loved watching how they help one another out especially Emmy with Ethan wanting to go with her but was scared at first.

I took them to Cocohodo for ice cream a d chocolate crepes while I had an iced coffee. Emmy asked why she had to share her food with little brother and that I should buy more. Girl thinks I’m rich!

20220709 | Jacob & Pat | Hong Kong Cafe | Crawfish Cafe | Brudda, SIL, Emmy | Houston, Texas | Mellie Dee

July 9, 2022

Jakob and his friend, Pat, were in town and for the first time in 10 years our schedule finally meshed when he was in Houston!

We had lunch at Hong Kong Cafe. Our nerdy selves talked about database and scripting. Sorry, Pat! It was nice to see him and meet Pat. Jakob has definitely changed a lot in 10 years, positively of course!

I went back home for a nap and then did some concrete step making with Emmy before we got ready for dinner at Crawfish Cafe. Brudda, SIL, and Sammi wanted some. I invited Frankenstein to join since we hadn’t had crawfish together not met Brudda and SIL.

I’m sure he was shocked they paid for our meal so we went and got boba and he paid for everyone. And he even got me gummy bear earrings! They’re currently my favourite pair.

20220712 | Bath Bomb Mickey Mouse Butt

July 12, 2022

I just wanted to share a bath bomb I did with the kids because it’s so funny!

20220713 | Gypsy Poet Pizza | Houston, Texas | Jane, Gerald, Nancy, Terence, Bobo, Gerard and Wife

July 13, 2022

Met up with some old college friends from FSA at The Gypsy Poet for some pizza. It was pretty good. And I was surprised we stayed so long! It was nice catching up with all of them.

20220715 | Mia's Table | Blood Donation | Mellie Dee & Ethan

July 15, 2022

Mum, Dad, Ethan and I went to Mia’s Table for lunch. He was leaving soon so we did a last hurrah with free ice cream!

Then I went and donated blood and got free top that is now my go to all the time because of how thin it is.

20220717 | Ethan & Rizzo Adventures | Science

July 17, 2022

Time with Ethan is so easy. He does need a lot of attention but he is always so easily entetained and happy.

20220720 | Chuck E. Cheese | Ethan, Mellie Dee, JJ, Jacob, Mallory

July 20, 2022

He got to go to Chuck E Cheese to see JJ and Jacob while Mallory and I shared some drinks. I find it funny that he thinks Jacob is JJ.

20220721 | Astros v Yankee | Work Team Building | Frankenstein & Mellie Dee | Pitch 25 | Sissy & BIL

July 21, 2022

The team I was assisting at work had a team away day at an Astros game. Frankenstein decided to get his own ticket that day since he was off so he came and walked with me from Sissy’s house. His seat was on the other side of where I was though.

I opted for the nachos and a beer using work money and it was nice meeting so many new people!

Frankenstein and I met back up a d walked back to Sissy’s where we hung out with BIL until she got off work. We went to Pitch 25 for some munchies and watched the second Astros game before we all parted ways.

20220722 | Mellie Dee | Shine on Heights Salon | Rizzo | Hong Kong Package

July 22, 2022

A new haircut and dye job. The hair was still super long but so far, I’m liking this lady!

I got a package from across the pond. Hong Kong Milk Tea. We couldn’t find any here and it’s my favourite instant drink! So excited. I still have SO much.

20220723 | The Artsy Soul & OG Tea | Ethan, Sissy

July 23, 2022

Sissy and I took Ethan ceramic painting. Ethan did a truck, Sissy did a cactus, and I did a few paw prints: one for Rocky, Rizzo and Artemis. We stopped by a teahouse for boba and smoothies.

20220725 | Karen | College Talk | Homebrew | Katy, Texas

July 25, 2022

Rose’s daughter wanted some college advice so I took her to Homebrew where we drank smoothies, ate pistachio muffins and talked about boys … I mean college.

20220726 | Work | Mango Festival | Baby Shower

July 26, 2022

Work had Mangofest. Free mango things and little shops set up where you can buy things from earrings to salsa. The team I was assisting had a baby shower so we did that as well. I didn’t feel I worked at all that day.

20220728 | Ethan, JJ, Jacob Play Date

July 28, 2022

I took Ethan for his last play time with the boys before he left. Jacob loves stopping him from going and JJ loved picking him up. The one wjere Ethan is holding something in front of him makes me laugh because he had a mouth full of food almost coming out as he looked at himself in the tiny mirror.

20220729 | Ethan Goes Home | Mellie Dee

July 29, 2022

And just like that, a drive to Bucees for a drop off and he’s back home. Ugh, he’s such a sweet boy.

20220730 | Frankenstein | 1940s Air Terminal Museum | Houston, Texas | Mellie Dee

July 30, 2022

Frankenstein and I had a airplane day. We first made a stop at 1940 Air Terminal Museum which is right next to Hobby Airport. it was cool to see some planes up close and what they wore or had on the plane in the past. So much history for how the airport came to be to now a museum since they needed a bigger location, Hobby.

20220730 | Frankenstein | Lone Star Flight Museum & Kemah Thai | Houston, Texas

The Lone Star Flight Museum was our next stop. This was actually SUPER cool to see SO many planes used during war and what not. They also had some interactive things to do.

We stopped for Thai food afterwards before heading home. Look at them deformed heart rices. Haha

20220731 | June Chemo

July 31, 2022

Another chemo session accompanied by breakfast. I’m becoming a pro at working from the hospital.

20220728 | Embroidery | Class of Shirts for Emmy, Ethan, JJ, Jacob

Some crafts for the month includes a whole lotta embroidery things and t-shirt making for Emmy, Ethan, Jacob and JJ. I messed up the sizes so had two extra ones. Hopefully Mallory found people to give those too.

20220730 | Ethan | Puzzle | We Bare Bears Summer Bears | July 4th | Costco | Puzzle Tracker

Puzzles galore. I even made an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of my puzzles. Ethan loves to help so he did his own. Maybe he’ll grow to be the puzzle lover and take all my puzzles one day.

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Asian, Bars and Pubs, Chinese, Coffee and Tea, Dessert, Pizza, Seafood, Sightseeing, Steakhouse, Thai

2022 May | My Birthday, Rizzo’s Surgery & Breast Cancer

May 31, 2022 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

20220530 | Puzzles | Lego Ice Cream, Batman, Superman, Star Wars, Beach, Friends, Oil & Gas | Emmy & Ethan

I finished 7 puzzles this month! SEVEN. Well more like six and a half but it’s more Frankenstein’s fault since it was his puzzle his work folks started and couldn’t finish. My first 2000 piece puzzle couldn’t be finished because of it.

The kids loved seeing how fast I could finish the puzzles. I even got them into it by buying them their own. They continually redo them and haven’t got sick of them yet.

20220501 | Ethan, Rizzo | Monica & Osvaldo's Baby Shower | Mellie Dee

May 1, 2022

Ethan follows me around as much as he can. It’s like having another Rizzo around. I don’t mind it though … when he’s not loud when I’m in a meeting.

Monica invited me to her family and friend baby shower. I haven’t had homecooked Mexican food in so long. I savored it for sure! Osvaldo showed up late when it came to opening presents. It’s weird how you know someone for so long but after not being together for a long time, it feels a little foreign. It was nice to see their family and catch up though.

Ethan and I went on a walk with Rizzo afterward. That boy overheats SO fast. After 10 minutes he was already red in the face. He didn’t want to go home though.

20220505 | Ethan, JJ, Jacob, Mallory, Mellie Dee, Rizzo | Park, Elyson Cafe

May 5, 2022

After work I took Ethan to play with JJ and Jacob at their neighborhood park. We ordered food from Elyson Cafe and just watched them do their thing. They are all so grown up and can do so much by themselves. It’s crazy how five years ago, Mallory and I were hanging out alone, with no babies around.

Brudda came and brought a soccer ball and easy to travel goal posts. Rizzo was chilling next to the soccer ball and with the name, found it cute.

20220506 - 20220507 | Ethan & Rizzo | Sushihana, Early Mother's Day Crawfish, Mother's Day with Gma

May 6, 2022

Brudda, Dad, Ethan and I went to Sushihana for lunch. Mum came during her lunch hour. Later that night Sissy and BIL came over and we had an early Mother’s Day celebration by ordering food from Yummy. There was SO much leftover especially since I hadn’t been feeling well and was afraid my stomach would be even more upset if I ate the spicyness.

May 7, 2022

We went to Gordon & Patsy’s for our usually Mother’s Day dinner with Gma. It was nice to all be together again.

20220511 | Churrascos and Wine | Work Event on Campus

May 11, 2022

Work had a get together event and for the first time in my life, I was served ALCOHOL on campus! And I’ve worked on this campus since 2008! They catered from Churrascos so I could have gotten beer or even liquor! So crazy how things have changed.

20220511 | Birthday Dinner | Mallory, Beth, Mellie Dee | Santiago's | Katy, Texas

Later that night I met up with Mallory and Beth at Santiago’s for my early birthday dinner. We, okay I, I went a little crazy and ordered way more than needed. But everyone knows that by now. The pichana is a clear winner and I cannot wait to come back here!

Also wanted to add that when they arrived, they were trying to convince me to have my bachelorette party in Las Vegas … because they want to go. First off, not engaged and won’t be any time soon, and second, not a super big fan of Las Vegas. Let’s just go as a girl’s trip instead?

Per usual, thankful for these two ladies that always finds time to shower me with love.

20220513 | Birthday Song | Ethan & Emmy | Ikea with June, Elements Massage, Jollibee

May 13, 2022

Day off, I had a video from Dad. A recording of Ethan and Emmy singing happy birthday to me. I wonder how long they’ll continue using the fake cake you see in the picture. Emmy’s been using it since day one. And Dad added a candle so that they can blow after singing. They “fought” to blow it for sure.

June had a biopsy done the day before to check for breast cancer when she felt a lump. She wanted to celebrate my birthday and make me feel special so she went with me to Ikea even though she wasn’t feeling well. A week or so later, her results came back positive and reality hits hard.

We walked around and bought nothing. I noted some dressers that peaked my interest but with the lack of supplies, I’ll wait to make a decision. We bought ice creams and soft serves along with a chocolate cake to serve as my birthday cake.

I dropped her off and headed off to my massage at Elements Massage. Frankenstein’s present to me for Valentine’s Day. I sadly didn’t get my hot stones but they left credit of $5 for me next time. Sigh … someone get me a gift card here so I can use it up.

I walked around and went to different places for my birthday discounts like Kendra Scott and Nothing Bundt Cake. I came home to a fully decorated table with the Jollibee I ordered June and I for lunch. Pictures of table below. She went all out.

20220513 | Birthday Dinner | Ambrosia | Houston, Texas | Mum, June, Sissy, BIL

Mum, June and I met up with Sissy and BIL at Ambrosia for my birthday dinner. It was very different but it was delicious. Their décor was super cute on the patio with twinkly lights and all. We took pictures and realized that Sissy and I looked like twinsies. Per BIL, true sisters dress alike .. gross. haha

20220513 | Rizzo, Birthday Flowers from Frankenstein, June's Decorations, Gifts from Everyone

We went our separate ways. Mum and June sang happy birthday to me as I opened presents and ate the cake we got from Ikea. Literally look at the table. She printed out pictures, made paper flowers, blew up balloons and all.

Presents poured from all over the place this year and I feel so so so loved. My biggest surprise was Frankenstein’s flowers he had delivered. I never cared for flowers but I realized it’s who gives them to you. These weren’t pity flowers or flowers “stolen” from someone else’s bouquet. They were bought for me and only me.

Don’t be fooled by the other flowers with Rizzo. Sissy got those for boss’s week and gave me one. Mum loved them and took the vase along with it. haha

20220514 | Crawfish & Feng Cha | Gordon & Patsy | Mum, June, Sissy

May 14, 2022

Mum, June, Sissy and I had crawfish at Gordon and Patsy’s. You would think they made it for me for my birthday but in reality, since Mum has been a bit depressed, he wanted to treat her some food and get her out of the house. Sissy ordered us Feng Cha since she was craving boba. Mine did not taste good at all.

20220515 | Birthday | Frankenstein | Perry's Steakhouse | Lunar Eclipse | Artemis

May 15, 2022

I drove to Frankenstein for my date night/birthday surprise. When I got to his place, I changed, got ready, and we headed to the mall. I’ve been wanting to go to a mall with him but sadly, since it was a Sunday, everything closed early. We were both clueless since we aren’t big in person shoppers. He got excited when he remembered I wanted to go to a Container Store but, yep, closed.

We hung out on the field a bit, people watched and talked about random things. Then he told me go guess which restaurant I think it was. I got it wrong, but he had made reservations at Perry’s. I was able to go all out and we ordered drinks, martini flight for me! I liked his drink more though but I don’t remember what it is. He got the pork chop and I opted for the expensive steak. We got a side of Brussel sprouts and loaded mashed potatoes. We had quite a lot leftover.

We are horrible selfie takers as you can see above. We sat on the field again and watched the night sky, then made our way back to his place where he pulled out his telescope and camera. We walked down near the golf course and watched the lunar eclipse. He took a lot of pictures and I laid down on the blanket and read through an article where we could assess one another. I think that article brought us closer together and I was able to speak easily without fear of him getting angry. Sigh, so nice.

That’s one of his moon pictures from the lunar eclipse. This picture doesn’t do it justice since I kind of pixelated it.

The next morning I sat on the porch and relaxed as he continued to sleep. Artemis hung out with me as well. Look at those YELLOWS!

20220517 | Lunch with Chelsea | Cajuu | Katy, Texas

May 17, 2022

Chelsea and I finally got to grab lunch together at Cajuu. We’ve been wanting crawfish and the flavour here is perfect, the price, not so much. We’re both alike and showed up with presents for each other’s birthdays that passed. And being able to catch up with her is always a treat. We complain about things but we are so thankful for everything we have.

20220519 - 20220520 | Rizzo Surgery | Gulf Coast Vet | Houston, Texas | Mellie Dee

May 19, 2022

Rizzo has been fighting a bump and sneezes and breathing issues since the end of November and they finally said he needed surgery. The fear I was going to lose him was HUGE. We spent a few minutes alone in the car together. I cried a lot and although Frankenstein was far away, he did something that made my heart so full so that I could focus on something else when I was in the waiting room for him to go in.

Rizzo had to stay the night but was told all was well. He had a bacterial cyst, unsure how and why, but it ate through his bone and impacted three of his teeth. Luckily they were able to make the incision in the mouth rather than on his face. He still looked rough when I picked him up the next day but he healed up well. He kept trying to nibble on his IV arm so I sewed him a collar pillow. He actually loves it and doesn’t mind me putting it on him.

20220530 | Emmy, Ethan, June, Swimming, Target, Fun

May 21, 2022

Emmy and Ethan are here again! We went to Target for some fun, played in water with LOTS of water balloons, made toilet paper tube animals and more.

20220526 | Splash Pad | JJ, Jacob, Mallory, Emmy, Ethan, Mellie Dee

May 26, 2022

I took them to the Splash Pad in Mallory’s neighborhood after work one day. They played with JJ and Jacob first at the Splash Pad before moving to the playground. Its so nice that they have a friend the same age as them Sadly they don’t live anywhere nearby else they could be best friends!

20220527 | Nursery | Mum, Ethan, Emmy | World Market

May 27, 2022

Mum, Dad, June, and I took the kids to IHop. Afterwards Mum and I took the kids to the Nursery and TJMaxx. We shopped for a bit and dropped Ethan and Mum home. Emmy and I continued our shopping adventures.

20220527 | Dim Sum Box | Katy, Texas | Emmy, Jenny, Le

When we were about to pick up food and head home, I get a phone call from Jenny and Le that they were nearby and we decided to eat lunch together at Dim Sum Box. Super expensive and the food is normal with a way smaller menu. My favourite is their special garlic shu mai.

20220528 | Rainforest Cafe | Katy, Texas | Sissy, Emmy, Ethan, Mellie Dee

May 28, 2022

Sissy came and we took the kids to Rainforest Cafe. They were both scared at first when the thunder happened and the animals went crazy. Ethan literally sat on half my lap holding my arm for dear like practically the whole entire time we were there. We walked around the mall and headed home.

20220528 | Crawfish Cafe | Houston, Texas | Jenny, Le, Emmy, Jennifer, Jimmy

Later that night, I took Emmy to Crawfish Cafe for dinner with Jenny, Le, Jennifer and Jimmy. Their fried shrimp is better than most Chinese restaurants! But the flavour I got for the crawfish was meh. I should of listened to Jennifer and gotten the one she recommended. Next time!

20220529 | Frankenstein | Cooking "Panang" Curry

May 29, 2022

Jenny and Le came and picked up Emmy to go back to Dallas. Ethan was still here though.

Frankenstein made plans to cook dinner together since we were both off for Memorial Day. We decided to make Panang Curry which might have been a mistake seeing how there’s not many Asian stores around. We went to Kroger to pick up our ingredients and it was a hit and a miss. Coconut cream/milk was EXPENSIVE there but we substituted and did our thing and I will say, although it tasted nothing like Panang Curry it was still delicious.

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Asian, Cajun, Chinese, Coffee and Tea, Dessert, Fast Food, Houston, Japanese, Katy, Mexican, Seafood, South American, Steakhouse, Sushi, Texas, Thai

202204 | Arizona Trip | 1st Anniversary

April 18, 2022 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Wingstop | League City, Texas | Ronny Chieng Speakeasy

Thursday, April 14th

I worked until almost 6pm. I had plans to go be at Frankenstein’s by 6pm! It was crazy but pushing through and finishing chapter one of my paper for work class was worth it because coming back Monday, I didn’t have to worry too much about it.

Anyway, I finally made it to his place after 7pm and he pranks me by making me think he packed the smallest duffle bag for the trip because I tend to pack “a lot”. Hey, I’m a girl. We have more things!

I hadn’t eaten all day and only drank one bottle of water. My hands were shaking and although I was not hungry I knew I had to eat. We watched Ronny Chieng Speakeasy on Netflix and ate our DoorDash Wingstop for dinner and headed to bed.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Hobby > PHX | Phoenix, Arizona | Mellie Dee

Friday, April 15th

We wake up SUPER early for our 6am flight. We both like being at the airport early. Yay. We were lucky and got the whole row to ourselves. I mostly played on my iPad and watched Flashpoint before opting to sleep with music in my ears.

We arrived at Phoenix, picked up our bags and headed to our rental car. We were upgraded twice and went on our merry way. It was the one we initially wanted but realized wasn’t necessary so it all worked out.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Original Breakfast House | Phoenix > Flagstaff
Garden Hash & Eggs (mix “hash potatoes”, peppers, onions, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms and cheddar cheese, topped with two eggs your way and served with toast, biscuit, or pancakes) | $13.95 • Green Pork Chili Benedict (two tamale cakes topped with green pork chili, two poached eggs and scratch hollandaise sauce) | $15

We started driving to Flagstaff stopping at Original Breakfast House since we hadn’t eaten yet. There was a wait and they even had a sign that if it was a busy day, your group will only have an hour and a half before getting kicked out! How crazy!

The food was better than expected, and they give you a lot! We both had leftovers. Frankenstein’s tamales were perfect. The masa was super sweet to me as well but he thought they tasted normal. I opted for the biscuit and ordered their sausage gravy to go with it. The biscuit was sweet which was weird for me. Also having asparagus in my hash was different. Not a fan but I ate all the veggies I could.

This place has cinnamon rolls which I really wanted to order but was so full to do so. The whole time I was there, I noticed every few minutes another cinnamon roll was being served to another table so it must be a hit!

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Flagstaff, Arizona | Downtown Shops | Macy's European Coffeehouse & Bakery

When we got to Flagstaff we parked the car and walked around downtown. We mostly went into shops I looked up and wanted to check out.

  • Babbit General Store
  • Bright Side Bookstore
  • PJ Chilcottage
  • Blackhound Gallerie
  • Basement Marketplace
  • Zani’s

He just wanted to take pictures of downtown so it worked out since I dragged him everywhere. We stopped by Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery for a quick pick me up before continuing around downtown.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Lowell Observatory | Flagstaff, Arizona

Afterward, we stopped by Lowell Observatory. My man loves all things space and this is the place where Pluto was discovered!

I typically dislike tours or “lectures” as they put it but our lady was THE BEST. I did not fall asleep and I retained a lot more information than I thought I would. Either I have to admit to Frankenstein that this shiet is interesting or maybe, just maybe, this is literally the best tour guide ever.

The telescopes are GIANOURMOUS. I was actually disappointed that it was too windy to use. Luckily their cluster of smaller (compared to the giant ones but the cluster is still huge) telescopes were able to be used later in the night.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Shift Restaurant | Flagstaff, Arizona | 1st Anniversary | Mellie Dee
Chef’s Tasting Menu | four courses + intermezzo | $70/person

We checked into our little house we rented. It was super cute and perfect for just the two of us. We laid around for a bit since we hadn’t really stopped since we arrived and then made a pit stop at Basha’s for water. Then it was time to check into our reservations for our first anniversary dinner celebration at Shift.

We didn’t know what to really order so we opted for the Chef’s Tasting Menu. Our first ever Chef’s Tasting Menu. If one person wanted to do it, everyone at the table had to.

We started out with tap water for me, sparking for him, and Paloma for me and a bourbon for him before our courses started to come.

  • 1st Course | Roasted Red Cabbage (fermented soy, Greek yogurt, pickled caraway seed)
  • 2nd Course | Mushroom Cavatelli (spicy miso beurre blanc, maple eel sauce, pea vines)
  • Intermezzo | Sorbet (evoo, sea salt, chevre)
  • 3rd Course | Escolar (coconut corn broth, piquillo relish, curry walnut dust, chive oil)
  • 4th Course | Mint Chocolate Churro (variations of chocolate, earl grey gelato)

I loved every course and if I had the money, I’d do tasting menus everywhere! It’s nice to get a bit of everything. We were both surprised about the cabbage and made me want to go home and try to do the same. It was better than I expected it to be. The dessert wasn’t bad. Nothing to write about but it was nice to have gelato since our first date was Menchie’s. He said it’s not the same since it’s not frozen yogurt but I’d like to think any form of ice cream, gelato, froyo is okay.

My favourite hands down was the sauce from the second course. If they mix that with the escolar from the third course, I think it would be the perfect pairing. Frankenstein on the other hand loved the third course.

My leaste favourite has got to be the intermezzo. The goat cheese and sea salt ruined the sorbet in my opinion.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 1 | Lowell Observatory | Flagstaff, Arizona | Night Sky

We headed back to the Observatory after dinner to catch the stars. Sadly the moon was shining so bright that it was hard to get the kind of pictures we envisioned. They’re not bad but could be better. Next time, we’ll check the moon calendar before booking flights to see stars.

We looked through those telescopes I mentioned earlier and bought things at the gift shop as a memorabilia.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 2 | The Fred Harvey Restaurant | Grand Canyon Railway | Williams, Arizona | Mellie Dee

Saturday, April 16th

We woke up early and drove to Williams. We grabbed our Grand Canyon Railway tickets and ate a buffet breakfast at The Fred Harvey Museum. The tater tots and bacon were top tier. I joked I was going to snag some in my bag to eat on the train.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 2 | Grand Canyon Railway | Williams, Arizona | Mellie Dee

The ride was a little over two hours but it was better than driving an hour and wait to park for another hour. They kept us entertained. They had a newspaper with facts, information, and coupons for restaurants. And once in a while they’ll have stories to tell about an area we were passing by.

What really kept me entertained for a long while was the family sitting in front of us. The little girl kept trying to get our attention … until she passed out from exhaustion.

The little cross picture are communication lines they used back in the day from the Grand Canyon to Williams. It’s still up, even though they don’t use it.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 2 | Grand Canyon, Arizona | Mellie Dee

When we finally made it to the Grand Canyon, we were let out and were free to roam about the whole entire area. We walked and took SO many pictures. I love that he is the same so there was no anxiety of “oh crap, I shouldn’t take one” because half the time, he was too. We walked into the market place area, shopping a bit before jumping on the bus to head back to the train.

I got off the bus prematurely which could have been catastrophic if we didn’t make it back to our train by the allotted time. Luckily the couple in front of us, as well as the lady managing how many people can get on a bus at a time, let us on. Whew. Then we had an issue where we couldn’t check in since internet up in the canyon was spotty. Yay boarding group C!

On the ride back we were stopped by the bad guys. They were literally on horses! And even had two of them get on the train and once the train started going again, they walked through demanding money. The kids LOVED it. I even heard one said, “see you later bad guys!”

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 2 | Northern Arizona University | Fratelli Pizza | Lowell Observatory | Flagstaff, Arizona
Works (red sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushroom, black olive, red onion, green bell pepper) • Flagstaff (hippie favourite! pesto, sun dried tomato, mozzarella, artichoke heart, ricotta, garlic) | $13/small 10″ pizza

When we got back at the depot, we walked around the shop and then drove back to Flagstaff. We passed by Northern Arizona University where Frankenstein’s coworker got their doctorate there. It was super pretty so he walked around for a short bit and got a few pics as evidence that he did check it out.

We decided on Fratelli Pizza for dinner. Two small pizzas that was still TOO much for us but we shoveled it down. Per usual, veggie meat pizzas are to notch. I was very surprised by artichoke on pizza though. I actually liked it although their sun dried tomatoes were too hard/chewy so I picked those off and gave them to him instead.

We were about to head back “home” when I realized the Observatory was still opened and I wanted to get the cap. He had gotten one but I was on the fence. Glad he was willing to go back so I could get it. It also gave him a chance to ask questions about one of the telescopes he was interested in to understand what programs it was using.

202204 | Arizona Trip | Frankenstein | Day 3 | Flagstaff > Phoenix | Chase Field | Gallo Blanco | PHX > Hobby
Gallo Guacamole (avocado, red onion, serranos, fire roasted tomatoes, orange segments, salt, line, cilantro & cotija with chips) | $6 • La Bomba Torta (al pastor, asadero cheese, lettuce, mayo & tomatillo salsa with pineapple) | $13 • Barbacoa Taco | $3.75 • Campechano Taco (longaniza, al pastor, carne asada) | $3.75 | Red Eye Coffee

Sunday, April 17th

Our last day, we woke up later than all the previous days and made our way to Phoenix. I had found a family owned Mexican restaurant but when we got there, it was closed … Oh Easter.

He found out Chase Field was close by so while I searched for a new place, he drove around and snapped pictures the best he could.

We ended up grabbing food at Gallo Blanco. Seriously one of the best Mexican foods I’ve ever had. Their al pastor is top notch although their guacamole could be better. Mostly because I’m use to the Texas way with a lot more vegetables and smooth. Theirs was SUPER chunky and I found a few avocado skins in there as well. Frankenstein said it’s to show how authentic it is.

We dropped off the car and went to the airport. We walked through different terminals to get our steps in and watched planes take off. With us being in boarding group C, we were lucky to find seats next to one another.

By the time we got back to Houston, I was pooped. We picked up our bags, got on a bus to get my car, drove him home, before heading home myself. Luckily I was home a little after 9pm which just feels like a regular day to me so work wasn’t too bad – especially since I got to work it at home.

Our first trip on our first anniversary was memorable. We did a lot and nothing at all. I came back, although tired, but refreshed. I’m not sure when our next trip will be but I’m ready …

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Arizona, Breakfast and Brunch, Chef's Tasting Menu, Coffee and Tea, Flagstaff, League City, Mexican and Tex-Mex, Phoenix, Pizza, Sightseeing, Texas, Williams

Chinese New Year, V(G)alentine’s, and So Much More!

February 21, 2022 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Ethan, Emmy, Mellie Dee, Rizzo, Pluto

Almost a month of no blogging. Kind of crazy how life just took me away … more like Ethan but let’s not blame a little child.

So here’s bit of an update:

2022 Chinese New Year | Reunion Dinner & Hot Pot | Rizzo the Lion

January 29th: We celebrated Chinese New year early so that Sissy and BIL could make it. Hot pot because it’s the easiest.

January 31st: Chinese New Year’s Eve, we did a family reunion dinner with all the “sayings”. So good.

February 1st: Rizzo dressed up for the festivities. Sadly, his head gear was too heavy and kept falling off so I had to return it. Hopefully I can find a better one for him. I found out this weekend Frankenstein saved this picture because he found it cute. Awwww …

Connor's 1st Birthday | Mallory, Beth, Mellie Dee

Feburary 5th: We celebrated Connor’s first birthday with pizza and cupcakes. Love seeing the onesie I made for his birthday being worn in person. Worth the time spent. It was nice to meet some of Beth’s family and Scott’s parents.

We Bare Bears Travel and Dolomites, Italy Puzzle | Chicken Nugs & Mama Hugs and Stitch Valentine Onesies

Prior to Ethan showing up, I completed a We Bare Bears Travel puzzle and Dolomites, Italy puzzle. I also made a couple of onesies for Connor. Who else needs things. Maybe I should start a shop.

Valentine's Nails | Frankenstein | Sushi Sakura | Houston, Texas | Artemis Drawing

February 9th: I did my Valentine’s nails, and met up with Frankenstein at Sushi Sakura. I gave him the first part of my Valentine’s Day present to him. I drew Artemis in the galaxy. He seems to like it. Not sure what he’d do with it though.

Chelsea's Galentine's

February 10th: Galentine’s at Chelsea’s. She invited her girlfriends over where we enjoyed foods, desserts and a game. I got to meet new people and mingle. And it was cool to find out that some of the champagnes we were drinking came from our old VP that gave it to her for free!! Also, two mamas of her friends were there and one of them made us all cute valentine hearts. Had such a fun time!

Sissy & Mum | Outlet & Ramen | Cypress, Texas | Angel Nails | Homebrew | Katy, Texas | Frankenstein Video Chat

February 12th: Mum & I met up with Sissy at the Outlet. We shopped around and then had lunch at a Ramen place nearby. It was actually super delicious. Sadly, I don’t remember the name of the restuarant.

Sissy and I then went and got our nails done at Angel Nails. Pedicure for me and dip manicure for her. We stopped by Homebrew on the way home and hung out with everyone since Brudda, SIL, Emmy & Ethan had arrived the day before but was visiting Gma in the morning.

I had a small panic attack and needed to see Frankenstein’s face. He was able to calm my nerves and all was well. Sigh, this man is so patient and kind.

Valentine's Day | Frankenstein Gift | Mallory | Galentine's

February 14th: Valentine’s Day. My annual Galentine’s date with Mallory. We got wine and ordered a charcuterie box from someone in her neighborhood. So good. Love that we got to chose. We might change it to February 15th as things go on sale. So we’ll see.

Frankenstein surprised me with a hot stone massage with a sweet message in my email since we couldn’t see one another. He gave me a cute card this weekend when I saw him to go along with it as well.

Ed | Alamo Drafthouse | Jackass Forever | Ethan

February 17th: Ed and I met up at Alamo Drafthouse to watch Jackass Forever. So sad that it’s over. Sad that Bam wasn’t in it but understanding as to why. They all still look so dang good and fit even though they’re much older. Laughed the entire time while I enjoyed my spiked milkshake and fish and chips.

Came home to a a sleeping Ethan in my bed since I wasn’t going to work the next day. He woke up at 3am and didn’t even cry. Just asked for some things and fell back asleep. Angel.

Rose | Scholars & Scoundrels, Proud Pie, The Alley | Katy, Texas

February 18th: Picked up Rose and went to lunch at Scholars and Scoundrel’s. It’s been forever since we’ve gotten together for a meal. Fried zuchinni and shrimp tacos for her and crawfish for me. So far, the cheapest crawfish I’ve found but flavour isn’t there and I had at least 12 dead ones in the bunch which is a lot if you think about it. We stopped by The Alley for drinks, then Proud Pie for dessert. It was nice to get out and eat at different locations.

Frankenstein | Galveston Mardi Gras | Meet the Fam

February 19th: Drove to Frankenstein. He opened his Valentine’s present from me and then we headed to Galvenston’s Mardi Gras parade where I met his mum, sisters, nephew and niece. We watched so many floats come by and got hit with beads. Frankenstein and I mostly stood in the back to talk and had the best time doing so.

Frankenstein | Craft 96 | League City, Texas | Painting with a Twist at Home

Afterward, we were starving and went to Craft 96. Pork chop for him, steak and two types of potatoes for me. Also had a beer each. We both love this place. Their food is always amazing and they change out their billions of beers on tap.

We went back to his place and started our Painting with a Twist. I bough this before the pandemic and since Patricia couldn’t come anymore, I finally redeemed it. We chose the Blue Moon. There is suppose to be a waterfall at the bottom but we both were disappointed at the video we were supplied. Luckily, with our brainpower, we came up with an alternative for the bottom portion. I just need to draw it, and cut it out on vinyl. Fingers crossed it works out.

Frankenstein | Remton | Webster, Texas

February 20th: We grabbed brunch at Remton. A Vietnamese restaurant with a bit of Chinese mixed in. We went a little crazy and ordered 10 dishes. I made the excuse that this man has officially graduated from Nursing school a few days ago so we can order whatever we wanted. So proud of him.

Mum, Sissy, Ethan | Howdy's Ice Cream, Park, Sushihana

I went home afterward. Sissy was already there. We went to Ulta with Mum and came back, woke up Ethan and went and got ice cream at Howdy’s. He chose the cookie monster which meant blue everywhere. But he did pretty good. The mess was jsut around his mouth and luckily it was easy to wipe off.

So many of the parks were filled up but we finally found one where there was not many people around. We played for such a long time before leaving back home and ordering DoorDash for Sushihana.

These past few weeks have been so rewarding. I’ve meet so many new people and caught up with many old ones.

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries Tagged With: American, Asian, Chinese, Coffee and Tea, Dessert, Galveston, Houston, Ice Cream, Japanese, Katy, Sushi, Texas, Vietnamese, Webster

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