SAVED BY THE MAX!

Last week me and my friends made reservations to go to Saved by the Max, the pop up restaurant inspired by the show Saved by the Bell.  I remember the show vaguely airing on Saturday mornings, but was too busy sleeping in late to pay attention to any of the characters.  Imagine my surprise when we first walked in!  I have to say, they did a pretty good job decorating the place!  I felt I stepped into a time warp.  lol
We made our way to our table and started looking over the menu.  We decided to order a bunch of stuff so we could all try a bite.  It was fun catching up with my friends.  I love to laugh and all we do is crack each other up.  I've toned down going out to dinner but I think I might have to do this more often.  Sometimes the weekend is not enough and it's a great stress reliever to laugh with your friends.
Unfortunately, that night I got sick!  I went home to a hot apartment and left the ac on all night while I slept.  I woke up with a cold but I knew this was different.  I'm still battling this cold/ cough but hopefully I'll be back to normal by the end of the week.  It's hard being sick in the summer!






I had my usual margarita...

Wings, sliders and mac and cheese!

I ordered the club sandwich...

Check out that double cheeseburger!



Suburban birthday party!

Last Sunday I attended my friend's son's birthday party out in Skokie.  They had him baptized a month earlier.  I know it was pretty stressful for my friend to plan two parties so close together, but what can you do?  It's fun to enjoy some of our summer, and as usual, me and my friends had a good time catching up with one another.  I made sure I brought along my appetite!  They hired a taco stand with cooks preparing our customized tacos!  Yummy!!


Despite yesterday's terrorism attack in Nice France, I've grown to realize the importance of spending quality time with my friends.  I care for them so deeply.  I've always said they are my 2nd family.  My friend in Italy was pretty upset.  I promised her I was going to give her as well as my friends and family here in the States all the information I had on my upcoming trip; from hotel reservations to transportation information.  I will even print out my itinerary.  I refuse to live in fear and have to trust my gut that things will be ok.  Our world is changing around us and we need to adjust to our surroundings. 
What precautions have you taken since our frequent terrorism attacks?  Have you changed the way you do things?  View things?

He seemed to enjoy his personalized birthday cake!

Mickey Mouse themed!



A polaroid photo for keepsake!  Loved the idea...

Dirty South Saturday...

Earlier last week I saw that one of my favorite djs was going to be at The Mid.  I bought a ticket right away.  I haven't been out to hear some good dance music in months.  Lollapalooza is coming up, but I wanted to hear some familiar sounds.  I was surprised one of my friends called me up to see what I was doing.  She agreed to come with me (which was nice).  A lot of my friends have settled down with boyfriends/ husbands or  kids/families.  I am the last one of the bunch, but to clarify, I was the one who had the longest relationship out of all of them.  My ex boyfriend had two beautiful girls from a previous marriage, and for a while, we were all a happy family.  But things changed...


I was relieved to see what Jennifer Aniston wrote in the Huffington Post.  I DO feel bad for her because she has had a lot of press about her relationships in the past.  I cannot imagine being the most recognizable woman in the world and everyone knowing all of the details of your marriage/ divorce/ health/ family affairs, etc.  I know I do sometimes post personal stuff about my life, but for the most part, I'm pretty vague about what goes on behind closed doors.  The reason I started this blog was because I wanted to share my story on starting over and Life in general.  You get to a certain point when you realize it's not what you thought it would be, and that can play tricks with your head.  I appreciate her sharing her story on being fed up about the constant scrutiny and I feel that happens in my life as well.  For the record, Life has unexpected twists and turns.  I am coming to terms with my recent birthday passing that I may not end up like the rest of my friends, but that's ok.  I am constantly reminded by my faith to trust my journey.  For the most part, I can see the looks I get from peers, family members, and even strangers that I'm not freaking out about not being married with kids.  I have my good days and bad days on the issue, but I know first hand from experience how much work is involved trying to co-habit in a living situation, especially when children are involved.  It's not for everyone.  That is the reason why I believe the divorce rate is high.  People check out.


In the meantime, I know what works for me now in my life.  Sometimes it's going to an art show at the Art Institute, or checking out one of my favorite singers at a concert.  Or traveling to an unknown city and discovering it's beauty.  Last Saturday, it was dancing in a club to a good looking dj!  We had a good time catching up at the Dawson and then later on at the Mid.  We were having such a good time, guys wouldn't leave us alone!  It's nice to know I still got it....

Cocktails at The Dawson

I had the Willis Tower cocktail 

Bathroom selfie at The Mid...

 As close as I can get to Dirty South

London House!

After the devastating news that surrounded us last week, I was grateful my friends wanted to meet up for drinks.  I've been very sensitive lately, and I knew in my heart I wanted to see familiar faces.  My friends are definitely the close family I wish I had.  They know how to make me feel better.  I'm nervous about my upcoming trip, and getting together was just what I needed.
I made my way down there before anyone else.  I noticed there was a pretty intense line.  I figured I would wait it out until my friends arrived.  If the line wouldn't move up much, I would assume we would go somewhere else.  Don't get me wrong, people did leave.  I understand not wanting to wait 45 minutes to get inside a venue.  But the host insisted it would be worth the wait, and she was right!
I finally walked in and I fell in love!  What a beautiful view!  People couldn't help themselves with their selfie posts.  My friends were finally on their way and I gave them a heads up.  I made some new friends myself waiting in line and we all walked over to the bar.  This place gave us a rush.  We were living for the moment!
I had a wonderful night with everyone.  It made me love my friends even more.  I wish I can keep everyone close to me, but I know deep down that's impossible.  No matter where our paths lead us, they will always be in my heart.  I wish things would get better in our world.  I've never felt an uncertainty about where things are going in this lifetime than I do now.  I will never give up on wanting a better life for ourselves, free of hate and violence.  It's moments like these that make it feel possible for peace...

London House!

It's gorgeous at night!

Couldn't help myself for a selfie...

Seafood platter...

My new friends.  They're from Guatemala!

What I wore to London House.  My shoes are new from Stuart Weitzman...

They made it!  lol

Happy birthday America...

Last weekend was July 4th weekend.  For the most part, I had a nice time off spending it with friends.  I would have never guessed the week we all experienced as an American.  What we have witnessed via internet has caused a tremendous amount of outrage throughout the world.  What was suppose to be a peaceful protest turned into an ambush of blood and death.  I am at a loss for words.
Terrorism and racism has been the subject for hundreds of years.  We've read throughout the horrors of history on how hate has caused genocide, war, and a loss of civilian lives.  What's staggering to me is that it's 2016 and we've come back to a full circle.  There has been no progression whatsoever, and even though we are taught that in our culture, everyone is welcomed and free to express who they are in our country, there has always been backlash that comes along with it.  The roots of racism has been passed down too far along.  There seems to be no means to an end.
I am saddened to hear so much chaos in all parts of the world.  It's an uneasy feeling when others are aware on what's going on, but are not willing to help.  Whether it's countries hiding genocide, or police men standing by murdering police men, no one is stepping in or speaking out about these crimes.  Have we gotten so use to the fact that these incidents are just a part of life?  What has happened to us along the way?
I had remembered Princess Diana soon after the holiday.  Her birthday had passed on July 1st, and she was brought up again on social media.  I cannot name anyone who has touched so many people since her passing.  She was a beautiful woman who truly loved people, regardless of their circumstances.  From her countless charity work, she would give her undivided attention to the hopeless.  Her smile was contagious.  I miss her dearly.
If we could only learn by example how harmless it is being gracious with one another?  To love and cherish every human being!  To learn from one another our differences!  It seems so hopeless with all of the destructiveness going on in the world.  I am fearing our lives on what it has become at this point.  Have we made it to the point of no return?  Are we going to continue living like this until we are all wiped out?  Is this how it ends, people turning against people? 
I cherish the memories I made last weekend.  I made it to Chicago SummerDance on Friday after work.  It was the start of a three day holiday, and the city was crowded with tourists.  I was excited to meet up with my friends because we knew we were going to have a good time.  Mickey Mixin Oliver was headlining the event.  He was at the Hot Mix 5 event I went to a few weeks back.  More house music to dance to.  We had so much fun that day!  I loved watching people walk over to the sound of the music.  Some had no idea what was going on until they started to dance themselves.  What a moment to be carefree!
The next day I met up with some friends to watch the Italy vs Germany soccer game.  This was a big one, with Germany winning by penalty.  My friend in Italy was messaging me at the same time.  I felt bad Italy lost since she mentioned the whole town was watching this game.  There went their Saturday night...
The next day was Sunday, which I assumed even thought technically it was the 3rd that people would be shooting off fireworks.  My friends held a bbq at their place.  We laughed and told stories while the neighbors shot off fireworks.  I had a joyous holiday!
Since the 4th fell on a Monday, I ran my errands then.  I did not expect so many fireworks being shot off that night.  I had to get up early the next day for work, but I know better now.  I ended my night talking to my mom and checking up with her.
Then the rest of the week happened.
Today is Friday, and I am glad this work week is over.  I am going to tune out social media as well as the news for the rest of the weekend.  I just want to see my friends and check up on them.  I want to love the people in my life for now.  Until next post.  Take care and be safe and don't forget to love...


Chicago SummerDance!



It drew a good crowd...

Yes we are proud house heads.  lol



Mickey Mixin Oliver

I wanted to practice my self stick skills before I go on vacation...

Feeling patriotic...

Veggie and fruit salad at the bbq. 

Happy birthday America...

Last weekend was July 4th weekend.  For the most part, I had a nice time off spending it with friends.  I would have never guessed the week we all experienced as an American.  What we have witnessed via internet has caused a tremendous amount of outrage throughout the world.  What was suppose to be a peaceful protest turned into an ambush of blood and death.  I am at a loss for words.
Terrorism and racism has been the subject for hundreds of years.  We've read throughout the horrors of history on how hate has caused genocide, war, and a loss of civilian lives.  What's staggering to me is that it's 2016 and we've come back to a full circle.  There has been no progression whatsoever, and even though we are taught that in our culture, everyone is welcomed and free to express who they are in our country, there has always been backlash that comes along with it.  The roots of racism has been passed down too far along.  There seems to be no means to an end.
I am saddened to hear so much chaos in all parts of the world.  It's an uneasy feeling when others are aware on what's going on, but are not willing to help.  Whether it's countries hiding genocide, or police men standing by murdering police men, no one is stepping in or speaking out about these crimes.  Have we gotten so use to the fact that these incidents are just a part of life?  What has happened to us along the way?
I had remembered Princess Diana soon after the holiday.  Her birthday had passed on July 1st, and she was brought up again on social media.  I cannot name anyone who has touched so many people since her passing.  She was a beautiful woman who truly loved people, regardless of their circumstances.  From her countless charity work, she would give her undivided attention to the hopeless.  Her smile was contagious.  I miss her dearly.
If we could only learn by example how harmless it is being gracious with one another?  To love and cherish every human being!  To learn from one another our differences!  It seems so hopeless with all of the destructiveness going on in the world.  I am fearing our lives on what it has become at this point.  Have we made it to the point of no return?  Are we going to continue living like this until we are all wiped out?  Is this how it ends, people turning against people? 
I cherish the memories I made last weekend.  I made it to Chicago SummerDance on Friday after work.  It was the start of a three day holiday, and the city was crowded with tourists.  I was excited to meet up with my friends because we knew we were going to have a good time.  Mickey Mixin Oliver was headlining the event.  He was at the Hot Mix 5 event I went to a few weeks back.  More house music to dance to.  We had so much fun that day!  I loved watching people walk over to the sound of the music.  Some had no idea what was going on until they started to dance themselves.  What a moment to be carefree!
The next day I met up with some friends to watch the Italy vs Germany soccer game.  This was a big one, with Germany winning by penalty.  My friend in Italy was messaging me at the same time.  I felt bad Italy lost since she mentioned the whole town was watching this game.  There went their Saturday night...
The next day was Sunday, which I assumed even thought technically it was the 3rd that people would be shooting off fireworks.  My friends held a bbq at their place.  We laughed and told stories while the neighbors shot off fireworks.  I had a joyous holiday!
Since the 4th fell on a Monday, I ran my errands then.  I did not expect so many fireworks being shot off that night.  I had to get up early the next day for work, but I know better now.  I ended my night talking to my mom and checking up with her.
Then the rest of the week happened.
Today is Friday, and I am glad this work week is over.  I am going to tune out social media as well as the news for the rest of the weekend.  I just want to see my friends and check up on them.  I want to love the people in my life for now.  Until next post.  Take care and be safe and don't forget to love...


Chicago SummerDance!



It drew a good crowd...

Yes we are proud house heads.  lol



Mickey Mixin Oliver

I wanted to practice my self stick skills before I go on vacation...

Feeling patriotic...

Veggie and fruit salad at the bbq. 

Baby Shower In the Burbs!

I can't believe July 4th weekend is here already!  We had our last softball game for the season this week.  We came close to having some wins this year, but it was a tough situation trying to get people to participate.  Our firm kept a lot of attorneys busy in May which made it difficult getting a solid team going.  Regardless, there's talks it might be our last season.  I made a lot of wonderful memories with my co-workers.  I'm hoping it's not so but it's out of my control.  All good things must come to an end.

That goes to say the same for traveling.  I am growing afraid of the times we live in now.  What happened in Istanbul is unfortunately our new reality and it's occurring too frequently.  It makes me feel uneasy because I will be overseas soon, but part of me knows I have to overcome this fear.  Feeling afraid, or skeptical of people in general is not the way to live your life.  Everyone has differences, but in the end, what we have in common is the same general needs we all want for ourselves:  love, health, the safety of our friends and family.  I feel the world needs to reintroduce themselves to each other again and discover how wonderful we all truly are.  I want to meet new people, make new friends, take the opportunity to discover new places.  It's what brings us closer to one another; to love.  I pray that the violence will stop.  I know we can live peacefully within each other.  We need to do this!

Last Friday my friends wanted to come over to celebrate my birthday.  I told them it was over already and that it wasn't a big deal, but they insisted.  They came by with a ton of wine and sushi and of course, their babies!!  We had a great time catching up with one another.  There are so many changes coming up in the near future.  We are trying our best to make some time for each other.  I'm excited for their plans but it does bring a certain sadness knowing we won't be able to do this all the time.  Hopefully we'll be able to continue our group textes.  Sometimes those are enough to bring a smile to your face.

Birthday sushi!

The next day I had dinner and drinks at Cantina Laredo.  I've always passed up the place, but I must say, I enjoyed my night there.  It was SUPER hot that weekend, and there were a ton of people in the city.  I realized I haven't had the chance to walk around River North in months.  I had a nice time.

The next day I had to get up early for a baby shower out in Morton Grove.  It was at the Arboretum.  These are the kind of occasions I dread because I never have something to wear.  Luckily I found a dress on ebay and everyone loved it.  I know I have to step up on my wardrobe, but I have a big trip coming up and I have to save up for that.  I cannot spend my money foolishly.

It was a great time of fun and games, plus, lots of pictures!  I cannot wait to see how they came out.  They had a photographer walking around and we happily posed.  Since it was 90 degrees that day, we didn't have a chance to walk around and checkout the Arboretum, which is a shame because it did look very pretty out there.  Hopefully one day I can make my way out to Morton Grove again.

I love this picture!  We had so much fun that day!

Hope everyone enjoys their holiday weekend.  Due to the terrorism acts in Istanbul, America is in high alert.  Remember if you see anything fishy, call the police and get help!  We have to stick together and help one another.  The violence in Istanbul could have had more casualties if the police didn't intervene.  Be safe and love one another!