Mellie Dee ♥

Lifestyle | Food | Travel

  • home.
  • about.
  • bucket list.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4

February 22, 2020 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Our plans went out the window when we woke up to rain but we were also prepared and was thinking to do high tea if that happened. Except we thought it through and decided high tea might not be filling enough as a last meal since we were both going to get home super late. Instead we decided to get ready and pack.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Bird Rock Coffee Roasters | San Diego, California

Since we’d get kicked out by 10 am and we needed shelter from the rain, we went across the street to Bird Rock Coffee Roasters with thirty minutes before our checkout time for shelter. Funny enough an awning was all there was and we laughed at the idea that the awning would fly away and we’d get soaked.

Amy ordered a Roseberry Mocha which she loved very much. By the time I was ready to order the line got too crazy and I opted out of getting anything.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Bird Rock Coffee Roasters | San Diego, California | Amy

We decided to stay there and figure out our plans since it was raining and we didn’t want to get wet. I was lucky to have two hats stowed in my luggage from the previous trip and lended one to Amy as well which she is so gratefully modeling.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Parc Bistro Brasserie | San Diego, California | Amy

We decided on brunch/lunch at Parc Bistro Brasserie. Amy got bottomless mimosas which she enjoyed. Seafood quiche, brussel sprouts, escargot, and mussels and fries. The mussels were bigger than the ones I had at La Jolla and delicious in their own right but the quiche and brussel sprouts were our favourite this round.

We walked around the edge of Balboa Park and somehow ended up at CVS where we called an Uber. My flight was set to take off an hour after hers so I figured going to the airport together wouldn’t be a big deal.

We bid our farewells and parted ways and that’s when everything goes downhill. I guess the universe thought we were having way too much of a chill and happy time, they threw us, especially me, some curveballs.

I get through security and realized my flight was delayed which meant I wouldn’t make my connecting flight. I exit to the counters, get my flights changed to an earlier departure and arrival time. I go through security and noticed my new flight was delayed once again. I exit again to the counters to where they tell me I had a choice to stay in a hotel in San Diego or to fly to Dallas and stay at one there. I chose Dallas hoping Brudda and SIL can pick me up before my morning flight from Dallas to Houston tomorrow. My once 4:45 pm flight was now at 6:05 pm. I go back through to security the third time.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Airspace Lounge | San Diego, California

Amy told me about lounges and I’ve always wanted to try one. Since I has almost four hours to kill I figured today was a great day as any to try it out so I chose the Airspace Lounge. I paid a total of $37. It came with snacks and some free drinks like tea, soda, coffee, cheap wines and beers as well as private bathrooms and showers, wifi, and charging everywhere. They also give you a $10 credit for food or other drinks.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Airspace Lounge | San Diego, California | Snack Bar

I was shy at first. Since I couldn’t find the plates I used a little dipping cup to fill with cheese, carrots and tomatoes.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Airspace Lounge | San Diego, California | Snack Bar & Moscow Mule

After I was a bit more comfortable I found the plates and filled up. There was a 19 year old hostess learning how to make alcoholic drinks. He offered the Moscow mule he made for free. It’s like the universe is saying sorry for all I went through … Until I looked up and noticed on the monitor, my 6:05 pm flight was now 6:35 pm.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 4 | Airspace Lounge | San Diego, California | Buffalo Chicken Wrap

I finished a movie, watched a few episodes of Gotham and edited pictures. I used my $10 credit to get a $10 meal of buffalo chicken wrap. After enjoying that I headed back to the gate.

It was music to my ears to hear that I was finally boarding. I’m currently in Brudda’s car headed back to his house. I am excited for a hot shower. Bummed I won’t get to see Emmy or Ethan but glad I’m at least back in Texas.

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: Breakfast and Brunch, California, Coffee and Tea, French, San Diego

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3

February 21, 2020 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Breakfast Republic | San Diego, California

No alarms yet again. We were so comfy in our beds we had conversations through the walls before finally waking up to get ready and head to brunch at Breakfast Republic. It was a last minute find and we were not disappointed. The shrimp and grits were to die for and Amy loved her Crawfish and crab cake Benedict more today than yesterday. My favourite was seeing cute hard-boiled eggs chairs. So adorable.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Cute House | San Diego, California

We started our walk to Balboa Park and I ran into this beautiful house. California has such unique house designs that I’m super jealous about.

This was also the time where we decided to take an Uber for less than 1.2 miles when we didn’t see a sidewalk. We thought we made a mistake for doing so and the Uber driver even laughed a little. If wasn’t until we saw how many hilly ups and downs, twists and turns we would have had to go through to get to our destination. Amy swore I would have killed her or killed herself if we ended up walking it.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Balboa Park 1 | San Diego, California

Balboa Park has a lot of different museums which we walked into none. We looked at sidewalk vendors and took in the breathtaking views.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Balboa Park 2 | San Diego, California

This was my favourite building and shot. The mosaic on the building and detail took me away. Not to mention, the weather made it perfect.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Mattarello Pasta Class | San Diego, California

We were going to grab juices before heading to our pasta class but when the Uber showed up, we realized we would be late so we went straight to Mattarello’s instead.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Mattarello Pasta Class | San Diego, California | Process

The owners weren’t available to teach us due to a family emergency and having to fly back to Italy but our lovely instructor tried her best to fill in those shoes.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Mattarello Pasta Class | San Diego, California | Amy Mellie Dee

We had a lot of fun making a lot of different types of pastas. Apparently we were to take our pasta home and cook them to eat. Instead, someone else from San Antonio spoke up if anyone wanted to take theirs since they couldn’t cook it at the hotel. We raised our hands feeling the same and the instructor was nice enough to cook our raviolis and tortellinis and sauce them for us to try. Our other pastas went to other pasta makers to take home. I cannot wait to take my learning’s home. But first, someone buy me a pasta attachment for my KitchenAid. Kthanks.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Vitality Tap | San Diego, California

We went and got our juices. I opted for a smoothie and it was super refreshing. We sat outside searching for our next activity.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Le Parfait Paris | San Diego, California

We talked about getting pastries the whole trip and decided Le Parfait Paris was perfect. We were aiming to grab some pastries, eat them, and head to Little Italy. Instead we ended up staying there for almost two and a half hours in deep conversation.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Gaslamp Mardi Gras | San Diego, California

We decided Little Italy was a wash and to stay in Gaslamp instead. I wanted a little snack and Amy found a good paella place. We walked past some Mardi Gras decorated buildings but it’s definitely nothing like how New Orleans celebrates.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 3 | Sevilia Restaurant & Tapas Bar | San Diego, California

We made it to Sevilla where we were told paella was sold out. I was super bummed and so we decided on getting our free Yelp check in appetizer sampler that the chef chooses (ceviche, potato concoction, and dates and blue cheese wrapped with bacon) and wine to start.

We heard paella was back in the table next to us and my heart was all smiles. We opted for the traditional one where it came with seafood, chicken and sausage as well as some cheese stuffed croquettes and brussel sprouts.

Amy loved her croquettes and I believe these were the best brussel sprouts all trip. The paella was the best decision ever and we both agree this entire meal was the best one overall.

When we were in our Uber the driver asked us how we like San Diego and the weather differences with Texas. Then he asks, “Are you enjoying all the wind in California?” To which I happily reply, “oh yeah I love it!” He asks a few more questions but I couldn’t hear and told him so. I hear him turn on the radio so I look over at Amy giving me a giant wtf face, unsure why. I realized I heard wrong when she says “oh no, I get drug tested”.

We’re back at the Airbnb watching Always Be My Maybe since Amy’s never seen it. I’m sure we’ll be heading to bed soon so bye bye for now!

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Bakery, Breakfast and Brunch, California, French, Italian, San Diego, Seafood, Sightseeing, South American, Spanish

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2

February 20, 2020 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

Since we are two hours behind we slept in but not really. It was nice being able to wake up without an alarm and without waking up knowing you have to take the pup out.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | The Cottage | La Jolla, California | Amy Mellie Dee

We both got ready in record time, called an Uber and had a lovely brunch at The Cottage. We joked we were living the Trophy Wife Life. This was our favourite thing we ate all day. Definitely recommend their Benedict’s and hashes! Their bacon was crisp to perfection and they had scones you can dip in peach jam!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Sugar & Scribe Bakery | La Jolla, California | Amy

We walked into some stores, one of which was called Sugar and Scribe they had the cutest desserts. We thought we would be able to come back and grab some but we missed our opportunity. Their encased gold mini eclairs were a big highlight. So gorgeous! the sprinkles in a jar wall was also a big highlight. I was so in love and they lady behind the counter chuckled at me as I gazed lovingly at the different types of sprinkles.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Shopping | La Jolla, California

We walked in so many different shops to name! And the view while we walked was insane. It’s paradise and I kept telling myself how content I was with how our day was going. The view was the biggest reason.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Benefit | La Jolla, California | Amy Eyebrow Waxing

We both wanted to get our brows done and figured going to Benefit shop was the best idea ever. I felt very cared for there and they were very attentive.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Seals 1 | La Jolla, California

We then walked to see the seals, number one on Amy’s list of things she wanted to see. Love the picture on the left and great memories made.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | La Jolla Cove | La Jolla, California

The views were incredible. I love how the bird posed for me and let me take various photos until I got the shot I wanted. If it wasn’t so cold, I would have probably asked if we could kayak.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Seals 4 | La Jolla, California

We kept walking around and finally found a spot to get close to the seals. This was my best shot. I love how some of them sleep upright and sometimes fall over.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Seals 2 | La Jolla, California

We took some pictures in front of the cuties. People say they smell horrible but I guess it just reminds me of seafood. Not as bad as I thought!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Seals 3 | La Jolla, California | Amy Mellie Dee Selfies

We took our first selfies of the trip with the seals. After a bajillion pictures we finally decided to leave and venture around elsewhere.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Crazy Trees | La Jolla, California | Amy Mellie Dee

We found some crazy trees and took pictures with it. Reminds me of school pictures for some weird reason.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | La Jolla, California | Amy California Scene

I was getting thirsty and was down to grab something cold that would hydrate me. While walking through some alleys I found a perfect shot for that California vibe.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Juice Crafters | La Jolla, California

We then ended up at Juice Crafters. I snagged their #11. Their window says they’re the best in San Diego and I believe it! I chugged it in a few seconds and wanted more. I am hoping I can recreate this back home. I’m also hoping I get another juice in me before I leave. It really helped jolt my body back to life with all the walking we did.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Buzz Coffee | La Jolla, California

Amy opted for a tumeric coffee instead at Buzz. They had the cutest decor and gave me ideas on how to decorate my future home. If you’re debating if you should go here, she said it was very delicious!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | George's | La Jolla, California

We had lunch at George’s on the Rooftop overlooking the ocean. It was nice but super foggy by the time we got here. I had mussels on my list and this place delivered. I would say I wish they had bigger mussels but I wasn’t angry about it. Amy devoured her fish tacos in minutes. I guess we were hungrier than we thought!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Down to Earth Thai Massage | La Jolla, California

I had the great idea to get reflexology massages, otherwise known as foot massages since we’ve been walking around so much. I love that she was so down for it and one hour later she couldn’t stop raving about it and want more in the future.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | The California Picture | La Jolla, California

My most Californian shot. Palm trees and sunsets.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Amy & the Hobbit Door | La Jolla, California

We were going to go back to the Airbnb and ended up chasing the sunset. We passed by a Hobbit door and took pictures in front of it.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Amy & Mellie Dee | La Jolla, California

we went by the water hoping to take selfies with the sunset. It’s kind of hard to do so on your own.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Amy & the Sunset | La Jolla, California

I was able to get these shots of Amy enjoying the sunset. Truthfully, she was taking pictures herself and I snapped pictures best I could to get some nice ones of her. I really love how they came out.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Sunset & Flowers | La Jolla, California | Amy

I also loved these as well. Purple flowers apparently make me happy and getting it with the sunset was a great plus. I love how great of a subject Amy was. I’ll tell her directions and she listens so well!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Beach House & Sunset | La Jolla, California

My favourite shot of the night. My dream house. I’m glad I don’t have this every day. I’m sure if I did I’d get sick of the view so fast.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 2 | Athens Cafe Uber | San Diego, California

We decided to head back to the Airbnb and figure out what to have for dinner. We both were down to not go anywhere. We had A Cinderella Story playing in the background while we edited pictures and laughed about all of them as we waited for our Uber Eats from Cafe Athena. Once it got here and the movie finished we picked a Set It Up to watch.

It’s been a very peaceful day. We walked a lot of steps and I feel terrific. Stress? What’s that?

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: Bakery, Breakfast and Brunch, California, Coffee and Tea, La Jolla, Mediterranean, San Diego, Seafood, Sightseeing

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1

February 19, 2020 by Mellie Dee Leave a Comment

I did my packing three hours before I had to get to the airport. I’m not too sure what’s going on with me other than feeling a bit lazy in getting packing done, not to mention, Amy and I didn’t really fully plan out our days other than making sure food was accounted for.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Houston to Phoenix | Hubcap Grill | Houston, Texas

Dad volunteered to drive me to the airport when he heard I was going so early. Nothing was opened when I got there so when Hubcap Grill opened, I went and got a small breakfast taco and water. I was pretty happy to see that I got the whole entire row to myself. I pretty much slept two and a half hours and spent the other time watching a movie.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Phoenix to San Diego | Peet's Coffee | San Diego

When we landed in Phoenix I made my walk to the other gate. I read a few chapters and watched a bit more of my movie before we finally landed in San Diego. I stopped and got a coffee cake from Peet’s Coffee since I was starving.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Westfield Shopping Mall | San Diego, California | Amy

Amy finally landed and we met up and decided to go to Westfield Shopping Mall since that’s where our lunch reservations were. We saw such gorgeous succulents on the walls. We walked into a few skincare stores before making our way to those chairs. We sat there fixing our makeup and catching up. I actually want one. They are super comfy!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Din Tai Fung | San Diego, California

Our lunch at Din Tai Fung was so worth it. We got spare ribs, green beans, spicy pork and veggie wontons, pork Xiao long baos, and pork and crab Xiao long baos.

By far the pork and crab xiao long baos were our favourite. The best was when I dipped them into the spicy wonton sauce!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Din Tai Fung | San Diego, California | Amy

Amy confirmed tonight that this was the best meal so far! Which I’m so happy to hear since I’m always afraid people won’t like the choices I make!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Origins | San Diego, California | Amy Mellie Dee Facials

Since check-in wasn’t until two, we had time to kill. We went into Origins and decided to get a free facial. Since we sat across from one another we noticed the other was in our own bodies and thus these pictures came to fruition. It still gets us everytime we see it. I guess this is what I would look like if I had Sissy’s body. We ended each buying a few things. I got mine shipped home and I’m so excited to use them!

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Dog Park | San Diego, California

We took a dog park path to cut through to CVS. This picture makes it seem like she’s packed her bags and ran away with her problems which isn’t truly false since we are in another state.

After CVS we took an Uber to our Airbnb where we unloaded and took naps before heading back out again.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Liberty Public Market | San Diego, California | Popup Dinner

We got our Uber driver to take us to Liberty Public Market. Where we were dropped off, we saw gorgeous half spheres everywhere! It was a pop-up and if I remember correctly, it’s $80 to rent a bubble and $109 per person for dinner. Oh and not to mention, four people minimum. Since we aren’t rich and definitely don’t have anyone but each other we decided to continue with our plans.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Liberty Public Market | San Diego, California | Amy

Liberty Public Market has restaurants and shopping. I bought some cute earrings and even some popcorn. Minocqua sells these delicious potato puffs, jalapeno flavour is the best while Any opted for a sweeter type. You can order online as well and I’m hoping they deliver to Houston.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Liberty Public Market | San Diego, California | Parana Empanadas Argentinas

We decided on a snack at Parana Empanadas Argentinas. I got the Spicy Beef flavour, “SB” as engraved on the empanada, which I thought was pretty cool. Amy got the Malbec empanada. Their chumichurri and Chipotle chumichurri was perfect. Their green olive sauce was pretty great too.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Liberty Public Market | San Diego, California | The Hot Spot | Mosaics | Amy Mellie Dee

Afterwards we walked around and bumped into an art center in the art district! We could have made pottery, candles, etc. But decided on mosaics. I think they came out pretty well! Plus the conversations we had helped me connect more with her.

2020 San Diego Trip | Day 1 | Liberty Public Market | San Diego, California | Soda & Swine

Liberty Public Market was closing so we searched around for food and decided on Soda & Swine. They’re known for their cocktails here but we decided on a Granny Apple salad, broccolini, brussel sprouts, smashed potatoes, and scotch eggs. Everything was great and the atmosphere was nice. They were a little heavy with the salt but overall, it was still a great experience.

Tomorrow is a new day. This two hour time zone is making me tired. Night world!

Filed Under: Eateries & Drinkeries, Travel Tagged With: American, Asian, Bars and Pubs, Houston, San Diego, Taiwanese, Texas

Follow Me On …

Monthly Archives

Categories

  • Beauty & Fashion
  • Blog Necessities
  • Eateries & Drinkeries
  • Health & Fitness
  • Miscellaneous
  • Music
  • Personal
  • Quotes
  • Recipes
  • Travel

Subscribe to Blog via Email

© Mellie Dee · All Rights Reserved. · Designed by ElanBlogStudio