Stanley Cup fail...

Well as you all know now, the Chicago Blackhawks fell short on obtaining the Stanley Cup this year.  We have been spoiled on celebrating last year, 2013, and 2010.  But as the years go by, our team has made many changes as contract negotiations take place.  It is what it is.  It doesn't mean we aren't die hard Hawks fan!  We love them very much and will be looking forward to next season.
Game 6 took place last Saturday and the whole city was watching.  I ran my usual errands and made way down to Crossroads Public House to meet up with my friends.  I wore my Blackhawks Championship cap that I got for my birthday last year.  Too bad I won't be wearing it again anytime soon!  lol.  Regardless, we won that game and it got everyone in a really good mood.  I decided to head out to Bottled Blonde for a bit and then ended it at National 27.  Everywhere was packed!  I knew I didn't want to be out too late because I wanted to wake up early for church the next day.  The weekend was beautiful!!  I'm missing that weather already...

My friend got a table at Crossroads Public House for the game. 

Ran into an old friend and we decided to have a celebratory shot for the Hawks win!

Trust me, I definitely regretted those shots the next day...

So much for showing off my cap.  I only got to wear it once!

Bathroom selfie at National 27.  I love cool bathrooms...

Housewarming Wine Tasting Party!

Last Friday I attended a wine tasting at a friend's new house in the burbs.  She recently made the transition from the city and was throwing a party to show off her new home to her friends.  Growing up in the city of Chicago, I have grown accustomed to the fast pace lifestyle, (although lately I've been wondering if I'm ever going to slow down).  Although it took a while to drive through rush hour traffic to get there, you can see how happy everyone was see us.  Her kids couldn't wait to show us their brand new bedrooms.  Better school system, everything is conveniently closer, and the low crime rate convinced us this was the best decision our friend made for her family.  They needed more room and the cost of living in Chicago has  skyrocketed.  I'm happy for them.  As for us, we got a chance to enjoy some wine from Italy, Argentina, and Germany!  I missed my friends and it was nice to see everyone again. 

We all got a chance to give warm wishes to the host by writing messages on a wine glass that she gets to keep.

He's too cute!!

Everyone wanted a chance to hold him...

Another selfie in the books!  What a long day!

When doves cry...

Today is a sad day for me.  We lost another music legend.  It took me a while to comprehend what happened, mostly because I was in denial.  Once news started circulating, I felt sadness. 
I grew up in the 80s.  I was a kid.  Coming out of the 70s, I was still too young to understand music.  Pre-teens was an interesting time for me.  I was very shy and reserved.  I played with my barbies while my brothers were constantly beating each other up.
Eventually, I got into music with the help of MTV.  Beforehand, my family would watch Solid Gold and American Bandstand religiously.  That's how we grew our love for music by watching artists perform.  Yet music videos was another way to visualize lyrics, and that's what drew people in.  Hearing a song on the radio and then anxiously waiting for the video release. 
Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, The Police, Duran Duran all had top albums in the 80s.  Everyone loved pop music.  I can remember my aunt going out to the clubs and secretly wishing I was her.  I couldn't wait to grow up.
But why was that?  Looking back into the 70s disco era, there was some suggestive sexual music playing, but with the 80s music video era, we can actually see artist do things we couldn't imagine doing before.  Everyone oozed sexual appeal, and for me, a young girl playing with her barbies, I knew something naughty was going on.  I just didn't understand it yet.
Prince was an artist that people tried to figure out, but couldn't quite get at first.  He was petite, but held such a strong presence.  If he walked in a room, he owned it.  The music was another story.  Not many artists sang and played multiple instruments.  He was incredibly talented and ahead of his own time.  Those who followed him went under his spell immediately.  He had a huge fan base and I was one of them.
I am so saddened by his death.  I looked up to him as a fellow Gemini.  I understood his creativity.  Most Geminis have a hard time expressing all of our thoughts, but Prince managed to express it with his music.  As different as it was at the time, he made it work.  I will miss him dearly as I missed my other idols.  They were one of a kind in their own unique way. 

His lyrics carried so much emotion in a world full of "pop" music...

My brother trying to console me...

R.I.P legend 

Let's play GOLF!

Chicago had an unbelievable weekend of gorgeous weather.  And whenever that happens, EVERYONE comes out to play!  Since we usually get a late spring, it was a nice surprise for us to feel the sun for a change.  A friend had a birthday earlier in the week, and she wanted to celebrate it by going to Top Golf.  I've never been, and was hesitant to go at first, mainly because I suck at sports.  I don't have a problem making fun of myself, trust me.  It's just that there ARE people who are competitive by nature, and the last thing you want to do is bring down the team.  They clarified that all we'll be doing is shooting balls, so I said fine.
First of all, what do you wear to play golf???  Automatically you think preppy polo shirts with khakis (which by the way, I DO NOT OWN).  I knew my friends were throwing anything on, and it's not like we were heading to an exclusive country club.  The temperature was in the 70s, so I threw on a graphic tee with jeans and opted to wear sandals for the first time this season.  Throwing on a twill moto jacket might have been too much, but I definitely did not look golfer chic.  lol.  It did get me thinking I should have more basics in my closet in case something like this happens again. 
Off we went to Woodale!  It was funny because it was the first time this particular group of friends and I went to a destination unknown.  Usually we go out on the weekends in downtown Chicago.  We made it there within the hour due to the heavy traffic.  Yet once we got inside we were told it was a two hour wait.  We decided to eat and have some drinks.  Since it was a beautiful day, we made the most of our time together.
Finally it was our turn.  Of course I sucked, but luckily, everyone else wasn't a pro either.  I DO want to get better at it.  I'm glad we got a chance to try something new and be outside.  It's a little out of our way, but I would definitely go back again. 



Strawberry Margarita!

A great day to play golf!

FOUR!

I love them...

Best filter on snap...

Monday Mayhem

My commute to work was troubled due to a suicide jumper on the Blue Line.  At first, without knowing all the details, it cast a negative impact with all the riders.  Everyone wants to go to work and not be troubled.  Then word of mouth came from a fellow commuter that a person got hit and all service lines were stopped because of it.  Off I ran across the street to make it on the metra train.  I made it to work 2 minutes late and didn't think much about it, but because of the domino effect it had on the city, other people I worked with were late as well.  That's when I heard that a person committed suicide and jumped in front of a train. 
The responses were surprising.  "They had to do this during rush hour?", and "Why couldn't they do this on the train after mine?".  In the end, someone chose to end their life publicly and it's heart breaking.  I feel for the person who thought this was the answer to end whatever they were going through. 
I can understand how tough things can get.  I had a bad week last week.  News about family members, co-worker's and friends were pretty depressing.  As I get older, I pray that everyone finds peace within themselves.  Life can get frustrating.  Sometimes people check out.
Which is what hurt me about what happened.  Suicides are becoming more frequent on the cta.  I pray that people find the spirit to move past their hurt and trust that this too shall pass.  I wish we could find ways to incorporate more self awareness with stress and other mental issues in our daily lives.  Faith is what pulls me through!  It's not always going to be sunshine and roses.  There will be times when things won't go your way.  Just trust that everything will work itself out.
Last week on Monday a friend of ours was making his way through town.  He had an exam he had to take, and afterwards, wanted to catch up with everyone.  We decided on Happy Hour at The Scout and had a good group going.  Once we finished up in there, we were itching to do something fun with everyone.  We made our way over to Marina Towers to go to Spin Chicago.  Last time we were there, we never got a chance to play ping pong.  This time we were determined.  I was surprised how much fun I had in there.  I'm absolutely terrible when it comes down to sports of any kind.  But I will say this, I DO try anything once! 

I'm a sucker for margaritas.  Happy hour at The Scout!

Time for some ping pong action!

Let's do this!

A tub full of ping pong balls in a tub!  Perfect for a selfie!

Luckily the rules aren't so complicated...

It's good to connect with old friends...

When friends unite!

Today it's suppose to be warming up, with the weekend possibly reaching to the upper 60s.  A sharp contrast from last week's frigid weather.  I DID wear my trench for the first time, so maybe they're on to something.  Sorry, it's my nature to assume winter isn't quite over yet.  Considering I had plans last weekend I was out there in the cold.  I faced the challenge to get out of the house altogether.  I almost talked myself out of seeing Bob Sinclar.  For the birthday party at La Scarola I was surprised most of us showed up considering the snow and traffic were against us.  To top it off, another friend of ours was in town and wanted to get everyone together.  That might be challenging.  I told myself I would do it, but knew deep down the others weren't going to make it.  I had no reason not to be there, but it would have nice to see more faces.  He seem disappointed at first but in the end, we had a good time.  Regardless, our group was going to make the best of our Saturday night.  We started out at Hubbard Inn and caught up with one another.  We got stuck on deciding what to do next.  We hopped over to Graffiti Lounge before they closed their doors, and again, were stuck deciding where to go.  Then it started to rain.  And not just any rain.  Rain-snow as they call it.  I was done.  I wanted to make it to church and workout the next day, so I knew my time was up.  The weather is always a factor when it comes down to Chicago. 

LOVE playing with filters!  I'm enjoying my new phone. 

Good times with this crew...

I'm glad he's settling well in California...

TROUBLE

I like the peeking-bra look. 

Birthday Dinner Blizzard

And the festivities continue!  This weekend the weather will be warming up into the high 60s, which means we'll finally be able to enjoy the sun for a change and not freeze in the process.  We haven't had good weather in weeks so I'm pretty excited about that.  Maybe I'll go for a run again??  Who knows?  All I can say that compared to last weekend, the weather was BRUTAL. 
After my night out at Studio Paris last Thursday, the next day I came into work for half a day.  I had a birthday dinner to attend too afterwards.  I was glad the restaurant was nearby because it wouldn't stop snowing!  I made my way to La Scarola, but our table wasn't ready so we went across the street to The Dawson for some pre-drinks.  It was nice catching up to everyone.  Of course, due to the weather, rush hour, and the home opening Sox game, some of our friends were running terribly behind.  We made the most of it, and luckily, the rest of our crew walked in altogether. 

I had the linguini with clams but I absolutely LOVED my friend's dish which was the penne all vodka with shrimp and asparagus!  That creamy sauce was to die for!!  Overall, everyone enjoyed their meal.  We even brought our own birthday cake to top it off!  Too bad it started snowing again!  That was pretty frustrating...



Wore a white lace top from Express with my skinny jeans and cognac ankle boots.  I knew it was a neighborhood restaurant, so I didn't dress up.

I love them...

Happiness is being with friends...

The birthday girl! 

She's excited about motherhood!

Linguini with clams

Now that's a cake!

Cozy restaurant!  We squeezed in for our pic! 

My special treat-to-myself...Bob Sinclar

Well I guess you can say, Lent is definitely over.  lol.  I went out last Thursday and haven't stopped since.  I told myself I'm staying in this upcoming weekend.  I don't want to get carried away on my financial goals, especially since I've been doing so well.  During Lent, I received an email mentioning Bob Sinclar was coming to Chicago.  I've followed him over the years and immediately got excited.  He rarely comes to the States and I knew I wanted to see him perform.  Last time a DJ was in town that I was curious about, I didn't act fast enough and the tickets sold out right away.  I didn't think twice this time.  I figured this would be my special treat-to-myself this month.  Lent would be over and I could finally hear this legendary dj's music!  I was excited.
Then the day came.  Things got complicated at work, and I couldn't have Friday off.  Not to mention, it was freezing again.  The whole week our weather was frigid.  I wasn't feeling up to it.  I messaged my girlfriend in Italy that I was thinking of not going.  It was too much trouble and I felt silly being out at a club at my age.  But my friend convinced to me to go.  She figured hearing some good music will get me out of my rut.  I'm on the fence about traveling anytime soon, and this would be a great way to cheer me up.  "You know you're going to have fun.  You should go."
It's moments like these I'm grateful for the friends that I have.  They do know me after all.  Plus they know what I like.  If I know I'm going to have fun, why would I opt not to go?  Believe it or not, you could be the only person who is stopping yourself from accepting joy in your life.  You can talk yourself out of having a good time.  Why?  Mostly we bring up excuses to mask what is happening, but the main reason is because you feel you should not be receiving joy, happiness, love.  I haven't been myself lately due to personal health issues, but I knew I wanted to have a good time.  I deserved it!

What I wore to Studio Paris.  I wore fleece lined leggings (lmao) and my suede over the knee boots because of how cold it was.  I wore my valentino earrings for a touch of gold.

As close I can get to Bob Sinclar.  There were people dancing everywhere so it was hard to get near him. 

He flew in for the show but was disappointed in Chicago weather.  We actually live here so we know what you mean.  lol. 

I DID have to come in the next day, but only for half a day.  Plus, it worked out for the best anyway because I had a birthday dinner to go to on Friday, (which was not far from my job).  I mingled in the crowd and tried to get up close, but people were dancing all over the place.  Everyone enjoyed the music and for the older fans, we appreciated his style very much.  In the world of EDM, it was nice to hear house music for a change, especially from Bob Sinclar.  I can now officially knock him off my dj bucket list!    

I DON'T NEED A VALENTINE. I NEED VALENTINO

Let's be honest.  It's hard to keep a positive attitude with the weather we've been having here lately.    Last weekend, it was cold!  I stayed in both Friday and Saturday because the temperature was too frigid plus there was gusty winds!  Sunday was the only day this week that was going to be sunny and in the 60s.  I caught up with my friends after church and we made our way to the mall like we use to do.  It's getting harder to catch up with everyone now that some of them have babies.  I know I have to find a way to keep busy and make some new friends, (which will be hard for me because I'm pretty shy).  Regardless, I am going to be busy this weekend, and will make an effort to enjoy myself out despite how yucky the weather will be. 
Since nothing much else has been going on with me, I have a funny story to mention.  Since I've been single these past few years, I've found a way not to feel so bad about my status.  I've bought special gifts-to-myself for my birthday, Christmas, and Valentine's Day in the meantime.  This past Valentine, I was eyeing a Versace ring I secretly wanted.  I never owned anything from them, and was worried about the ring sizing because it was in Italian.  I looked into the conversion, but low and behold, when it arrived, it was too loose.  I could have kept it and made the most of it, but my co-workers insisted I return the ring.  "What if you lose it?  It's not worth it if it doesn't fit right", they said.  Sadly, I knew they were right, and sent the ring back the same day I received it.  So much for my Valentine's-gift-to-myself this year, I murmured. 
Of course I couldn't let go of the fact that I didn't get something for myself.  I even started looking around for my up coming birthday in 3 months.  Then one day, I was on the outnet's website, and saw some Valentino earrings.  They were a steal!  I clicked on it and right away was notified that there were the last pair.  I couldn't resist.  I purchased it without even thinking about it!  I got them the other day and can't wait to wear them out.  Yes, I did get Valentino for Valentines, and I'm in love!  It's little splurges like these that can bring you some joy out of the blue.  I am a true believer that I can't get whatever I want, it just might take me a while.  lol.  Not to mention, it didn't compromise with my savings plan.  Now if I can only figure out how to get those rockstud heels... 

My gifts-to-myself over the years.  The vintage Chanel earrings I splurged for my 30th birthday, and the YSL arty ring I got on my 40th.  The Alexander McQueen bracelet was my Christmas present-to-myself 2 years ago.  The watch and cuff bracelet is BCBG. 

LOVE the red box!

THANKS TheOutnet!  I'm officially hooked on your website and love my earrings!

FUN FILLED WEEKEND part 3

The following day was Easter Sunday.  I tried my best to get to church a little bit earlier so I could find a seat, but you know how that goes.  Despite what people say, I'm glad church is packed on Easter.  Whether you are a devoted catholic or not, I'd like to assume you're making your way towards a higher power, and what better way to do it than to celebrate his resurrection.  I decided to wear a pantsuit to church since I knew the weather had warmed up.  It was nice not wearing a coat for once.  Lately Chicago weather gives us one nice day a week, and then it's back to frigid temperatures.  What can you do? 
After church I made my way downtown to catch a college basketball game for March Madness.  Congratulations Villanova Wildcats on winning it all!  Even though I didn't get a chance to watch the winning game, the process itself is pretty interesting.  Maybe next year I'll do a bracket...
I made my way towards my Dad's place back in the north side.  We were going to celebrate my Dad's birthday since it fell in the middle of the week.  My mom and dad divorced when I was 8 years old.  They both eventually remarried.  Even though my Dad came back into my life in my 20s, I'm still getting to know him.  There's so much that me and my brothers missed out.  I try to take advantage of the time we do share with him since we lost so much when we were kids.  At one point I asked to take a photo with him and he leaned his head towards me.  It's sad to say I don't remember my Dad being affectionate towards me, but here we are now.  This is a moment I will definitely remember.

Spring pantsuit for Easter Sunday!

Topped it off with my Alexander McQueen scarf.  It was nice not wearing a coat.

Home cooking at Dad's consisted of bbq ribs with rice and beans.

Tres leches birthday cake!



I'm glad my brother captured this moment with my camera.

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