Mmmmm. Grilled Cheese

Yesterday was an extremely relaxing day; it was my day off which allowed me some extra  time to catch up with all the tasks I've been putting off.

While I was waiting for the mug I made yesterday to finish baking in the oven, I made a de-lic-ious grilled cheese sandwich!

I wasn't going to share this with you, for the simplicity and ease of making this sandwich did not seem worthy of a post.  However, after I took one bite, the cheesy and peppery goodness simply melted in my mouth and made my taste buds explode!  And I knew this would have to be my next post!

I started with my favorite bread; the only bread I have been eating consistently for over a year; Heidelberg Multi-grain Bread.  This bread is softy and a tiny bit crumbly with great texture from all the various grains. 

First, I spread a little butter on the outside of each piece of bread.
 

Personalized Coffee Mugs

Today I decided to try one of the many things I found and instantly fall in love with on Pinterest: Personalized Coffee Mugs. 

I decided to make this particular coffee mug for my boyfriend; he's a big coffee drinker in the morning, so why wouldn't he love a new coffee  mug, right?!

All you need to make this cute gift is:

One coffee mug ( I bought one from the $1 store)

Scrap paper, to test out different sayings / styles of handwriting

A sharpie permanent marker

Nail polish remover (to remove any mistakes)

Fancy Cubes

Today's post will involve a simple trick to make everyday beverages a little more glamorous!

I thought of this while eating lunch yesterday; I wanted something to spruce up my glass of ice cold Pellegrino.  Although this beverage is delicious and refreshing on its own, I wanted a little something extra.

So I decided to make fun, tasty, and fancy ice cubes!

Beauty Products Under $20

I've decided to switch it up a bit and write about something other than eating delectable foods and exploring fun restaurants with friends.  

There are so many products on the market today that help keep us gals (and guys) looking our best.  I, myself have found a few products I've come to love and want to share them with you.  Now I'm not one to spends loads of money on upkeep products, so I've chosen a few that are $20 or less. 

Here are some of my favorites . . .

Sushi Time is Ruby Time, with Joey

Friday afternoon I popped by my favorite sushi place, Ruby Asian Bistro to catch up with one of my best friends from college. Before I go on and tell you how delicious all the food was, I must inform you that this place is my hidden secret and you should feel very special that I am sharing it with you.  I honestly can't remember how I stumbled upon this place, but I'm so happy I did!

Fig-a-licious

Today is absolutely gorgeous and it has put me in a fantastic mood!  The sun is shining and there is a slight breeze helping me stay cool. 

On my way home from the gym this morning I stopped at one of my favorite places in Albany, Cardona's Market.  This is an adorable, little family run Italian market that has everything a girl could ask for, and more.  Seeing as how this hidden treasure is right around the corner from my house, I like to treat myself with a trip to Cardona's at least once a week.  

Today I came across some delightful looking figs and automatically decided I had to bring some  of those sweet goodies home with me.  I've never actually bought figs before, but have had them numerous times while eating out.  I guess its time to start experimenting!

Take a look, aren't they just delectable?

Now, obviously my first thought was, What can I eat these with?! And then it came to me... goat cheese! I am a mega goat cheese lover and will try to put it on just about everything!

Fresh fig with goat cheese and a drizzle of honey

Mouth-watering

After this little decadent treat I knew I needed / wanted MORE! So, I paired some figs with a slice of my new creamy Havarti cheese I bought at Cardona's. 

Fresh fig with Creamy Havarti cheese, a drizzle of honey, on a Carr's table water cracker.

Just as I thought, pure decadence! I didn't feel guilty eating a couple of these bad boys because each fig is only 21 calories and they are full of fiber, Vitamin K, and antioxidants! Go Figs!

I finished enjoying these treats outside as I watched my pup run around and play in the sunshine. 

Meet Barley:

Barley all tuckered out and ready to nap!

Tell me...what do you like to pair figs with? 

Twin Time - Lunch at The City Beer Hall

My sister Caitlyn came up to visit late Wednesday evening and spent the night so we could have a full day of Twin Time on Thursday. 

We woke up around 9 a.m. and had a relaxing morning of drinking coffee and catching up, discussing all things girly.  

After Caitlyn raided my closet for what seemed like four hours we decided to go out for lunch and take in all that Albany had to offer us on the beautiful sunny day.  Cait said she was in the mood for a really good salad, so I decided to bring her to one of my new favorite places; The City Beer Hall.  The name may sound deceiving, but check out their website and look at all they have to offer. This gastropub is a true gem for Albany's foodies and beer lovers. 

Summer Vacation: LBI

For those of you that don't know where LBI is, it's on the southern coast of New Jersey.  I know, I know... New Jersey?! But you'd actually be surprised to know that LBI is a lovely spot for a family vacation, a trip with friends, or even a sweet getaway with your love. 

We stayed in the part of LBI known as Beach Haven.