Rewind.

Ugh. 

That's how I feel this Monday morning, on a 111-year record breaking cold, winter day. It is hard to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when you have ice forming on your eyelashes and frozen toes. Even though I am in a grumpy mood today, thinking back on the last two Valentine filled weekends makes me happy. Here is a quick rewind: 

Last weekend, we celebrated my friend Brynne's birthday by going to see the Cleveland Pops Orchestra Academy Awards for Music and enjoying a few sweet treats after at Coquette Patisserie.

Chocolate Triomphe & Macaroons

Valentine's Day weekend was spent with Chris making pizzas (more on this in a later post), watching movies and eating ice cream. Sunday we visited with both our families for a relaxing day. 

Chocolates complete this holiday

Lazy Saturday mornings are the key to my heart

Pinterest inspired breakfast, not a complete fail. (definitely didn't turn out like this)

Mitchell's Tart Lemon Yogurt with Homemade Blackberry Ribbon

As you can see, I have a fully belly from this weekend. I'd like to think it is in preparation for tomorrow: Mardi Gras! Stay warm everyone! 

ode to swenson's.

The year was 1998, I was 7 years old and had a big head of curly hair (some things never change). At this time in my life, one of the most exciting phrases my mom could say was, "It is time to drop off the recyclables." 

Anyone who knows me probably is rolling their eyes and thinking, please Alexandria, do not give us another lecture about how important recycling is. Lucky for all you eye rollers, today's post is not about recycling, but rather a wonderful, delicious hamburger. 

When I was little, "dropping off the recyclables" meant we had to drive all the way from North Canton to Jackson Township because that was the nearest place that accepted cans. Trust me the best part of the trip was not the 5 cents I received for our hard work collecting garbage bags full of cans. (seriously though, what the heck was with that pathetic pay). No no, the best part about recycling was the Swenson's that was conveniently located next door. 

My mom figured this was probably a good enough bribe to get myself, and my two younger siblings into the car. She was right. 

Everyone seems to have a story like mine with Swenson's. The fond memories of what made Swenson's part of their childhood. That first bite into a double cheeseburger with the slightly sweet bun and super melty cheese is something you remember forever. Or looking at the long list of milkshake flavors and trying to decide which combination is best (hot fudge banana if you are wondering). And there's just something so perfect about a big potatoey fry being dipped into a cold creamy milkshake. 

When I moved to Cleveland, I missed all of those things. So when I found out they have a new food truck that travels to me, well I felt it necessary to share this with the entire internet world. 

If you are in Cleveland and desperately need your Swenson's fix follow them on Twitter and you can track that truck down like I do. Today they will be at Walnut Wednesday...and so will I. 

The time Swenson's came to JCU *insert heart-eyed emoji here*

Andddd, if you haven't been to Swenson's, well quite frankly I am sorry for you and I feel as though you should probably make that a priority today. 

and don't forget to recycle :)  

life on a lake.

One of my favorite parts of living in Cleveland is being so close to the Great Lakes. While I love visiting the beach, I am happy residing in an area that doesn't require me to hurricane proof my building. It is also nice to feel a cooler breeze off Lake Erie on hot days. Ahhhhh, yes.

The weather has been perfect this past week that I made sure to spend extra time lakeside.

We stopped at Grumpy's in Tremont for brunch.

I ordered the potato pancakes with sauteed apples and sour cream because how different is that?!

 A long walk around Edgewater was a nice way to digest our hearty meals.

The free Star Spangled Spectacular with the Cleveland Orchestra in Public Square was a great way to kick off the weekend.  (lots of prepositions in that sentence geez louise, grammar police)
 

The fourth was spent at the boat and pool time by the lake.

The sunset views were stunning.

Hope you all had a fun and safe July 4th!

miniature summer.

Remember on the last day of fifth grade when the bell rang and you couldn't get out of school fast enough to start summer? The next few months would be filled with hot, sunny days, drippy popsicles, cookouts and baseball games. It feels like those carefree summers were left behind after starting high school. High school meant non stop sport practices (volleyball: you were the bane of my existence) and summer jobs (bleh).

Strangely enough, I felt a little like my fifth grade self at college graduation. One whole month with limited responsibilities, no work and few plans. It was the best feeling knowing I have a miniature summer this year. I intend on squeezing in all the popsicles and pool time I can before entering the real world at the beginning of July.

Tribe Time
 To kick off the summer, I have attended two baseball games for our Indians. One concluded with fireworks and the other with awesome dugout seats thanks to my friend, Alicia! So American.

Boat Rides
Whether it was on the Goodtime III or Chris' family boat, I've been spending some time in and around Lake Erie.

Don't forget to make a trip to the lake this summer. Mentor Headlands is my favorite spot, but Edgewater Beach is also hosting weekly happy hour events! 

Exploring
I found Rito's a fun Italian Deli and Bakery in addition to discovering Chuppa's Marketplace in Parma. They have delicious fresh squeezed orange juice. It was refreshing and perfect for hot summer days.

4. Alfresco Dining
Alfresco Dining definitely didn't happen in 5th grade but whatever. It's my grown up favorite summertime activity. We stopped in Little Italy for an outside meal at Angelo's Nido Italian Restaurant (try the stuffed rigatoni).

5. Walks in the Park 
Wade Oval is looking extra perfect this time of year.

So is Shaker Lakes Park

 
Bonus: Brunch 
Ok, fine yes I brunch all year religiously. However, I had to include this because I was finally able to try Fire Food & Drink brunch in Shaker Square. I love the patio and can definitely see myself going back for a sticky bun and coffee on a lazy weekend morning.

If you have a favorite summertime activity let me know in the comments below so I can try it!

my life lately.

Hello, it certainly has been awhile. Blogging and second semester of senior year are not working well together apparently.

Don't that that fool you though. I've still been on the move eating, drinking, and sightseeing my way through Cleveland. So put on your snow boots on because there is a lot of recapping to do: 

 1. Cleveland Orchestra
My mom, dad and Leslie came up to Cleveland for a Friday night to take Chris and I to the orchestra. We stopped in Little Italy for a bite to eat before enjoying the Beethoven & Mozart music at Severance Hall.

2. Snow Days
We have had a few snow days which were utilized for Netflix watching and Meyer lemon biscotti baking. Oh and the occasional berry french toast.Yes, Chris made the spaghetti dinner below. (WHAT?)

3. On the Rise 
Looking for the best bakery in Cleveland? Of course you are. Don't even pretend you weren't.
Well it's called On the Rise and its conveniently (dangerously) located 5 minutes from my apartment on Fairmont. Almond croissants, pain au chocolate, cinnamon swirl bread...all baked fresh daily with the best ingredients around. If you are visiting on a weekend, prepare to wait for a few minutes. This place has its regulars and you will see why. Although waiting in line isn't when you can smell fresh baked bread and feel the warm steamy air with a little hint of coffee.

 
4. Snowboards and Sore Bums
Yeah. You read that right. I did go snowboarding a few times. I also fell more than a few times. However, visiting Peak-n-Peak was a blast and it's a perfect place for beginners (like myself).

5. Jazz Hands Everyone
It is hard not to feel a little cabin fever this time of the year. Chicago definitely helped warm things up a little with the jazzy music and sassy numbers (the worst attempt at humor). While it wasn't the best show I've seen, the music was great and it was nice to get dressed up and spend some time at the Playhouse.

More posts coming soon! I have them all lined up so stay tuned. Happy winter everyone!

home.

I spent the past few weeks at home for Christmas break. While I was home, I decided to visit some new (and old) favorite spots in North Canton and Downtown Canton.

First, I made a trip to Ben Heggy's Candy Company to purchase a few pieces of their yummy chocolates. Heggy's has two locations in Canton and one in Alliance. The little diner on Tuscarawas has some of the best french fries and milkshakes. If you need further proof: the french fries are served with a little square of butter on top.....

I have heard a lot of great things about Muggswigz in Downtown Canton and as the creator of Cup of Cleveland I felt obligated to determine if the lattes lived up to the hype. My verdict? YES.

It was so much fun looking at the drink menu and all the unique combinations that were offered. I opted for a cinnamon and honey latte, Leslie chose the s'more variety and Chris had the classic cappuccino. The latte art was some of the better latte art I have seen in the US, and the taste was equally as impressive.  I understand why Muggswigz won third place in the 2013 America's Best Coffeehouse Competition.

A trip home wouldn't be complete without dinner at 91 Wood Fired Oven. After eating embarrassing amounts of the best bread with the 91 balsamic vinegar reduction, I ordered the blackened chicken with smoked Gouda risotto and a delicious raspberry balsamic drizzle. It was such a nice way to spend an evening home with my family and Chris.

Now that I am back in Cleveland, refreshed and ready to enjoy my last semester in college at John Carroll!

vintage christmas.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I feel it is appropriate to consider this week the start of the "holiday season." I know there's probably a lot of grumblers out there that feel we can't begin the Christmas festivities until the day after Thanksgiving.

Sorry people. I love Thanksgiving and I love Christmas. I'm celebrating as long as I can!

To kickoff this wonderful time of the year, I headed down to the Cleveland Flea to do a little early Christmas shopping during the Vintage Holiday Flea, November 23&24.

This was my first time visiting the Cleveland Flea and I was so impressed. Such a great group of artisans and vendors! Everyone was extremely talented and brought beautiful items. There were many unique ideas for gifts. Of course, I am a huge supporter of buying local and recycling, so this was right up my alley.

I made sure to stop by the Free Period Press table where my good friend Ali Forbes was selling her new "grown-up" coloring books. These coloring books are amazing. Check out the website to see some of the creative designs. I'll post a picture once I start mine.

At our apartment, we have also started decorating for the holidays. I felt obligated to buy my first ornament once I had a chance to browse Gina Desantis' ceramic table. The little handcrafted and painted Christmas tree was calling my name! 

Downstairs in the "Underbelly" there were a number of food vendors. The Olive and The Grape had the most amazing blackberry balsamic vinaigrette and Meyer lemon olive oil to try. I am looking forward to visiting their location at the 5th Street Arcades.

Spending this weekend at the Cleveland Flea was the perfect way for me to start the holiday season. If you are looking for great gifts, you have my recommendation! 

sushi and sweets.

Sorry I have been a little lacking in the blog posting area. School is the culprit in this situation. So hang tight. I'm still writing, just a little less frequently.

For my sushi fans out there, I highly recommend trying Touch Supper Club for the sushi happy hour on Fridays from 5-7. It is delicious. Chris and I also split the Loaded Flatbread and Korean Sliders. Definitely check out the site. Touch Supper Club has such cool weeknight themes. Did I mention, Thursdays are gourmet tacos for $3? I am definitely going back for a little night with the girls!

On our way back, we stopped at Sweetie Fry for dessert. The concept behind Sweetie Fry is that heavenly combination of french fries and ice cream (Arby's Jamocha Shake and Curly Fries will always reign supreme in my book). While we weren't in the mood for fries, a Turkish Coffee with Salty Carmel cone and Mint Chocolate Chip cone sounded pretty good.

I think I might need to give Sweetie Fry one more chance. Unfortunately, I was not impressed. We sampled a few different flavors, but nothing really wowed me. If anyone has any recommendations for something I should try next time, let me know! I have heard such great things about Sweetie Fry and I do not like to be disappointed.

For my careful readers, I am still working on that pizza blog I promised. One more spot and I will select my winner.

Happy Weekend Everybody.

all about apples.

As I am typing this blog post, the delicious smell of baked apples has filled my apartment. Between the Pumpkin Apple Bath & Body Works candle, and the Breakfast Apple Granola Crisp in the oven, I am in apple heaven.

This past weekend, was spent checking number 8 off my autumn list. Number 8 was of course visiting an apple orchard and pumpkin patch.

In order to accomplish this task, we made our way to Miller's Apple Hill in Amherst, Ohio for the "Apple Pickin' Spree." This little festival was the a great kick-off to the apple season. We took a hay ride out to the orchard and filled our bags to the brim with Fuji, Macintosh and Empire, sampling a few as we went. (what?! quality control, that's all)

After taking the hay ride back, we shopped around the store and picked up the necessary items. Necessary items meaning Miller's Apple Cider, apple fritters and candy corn mix. We grabbed a quick bite from the vendors and headed home for the John Carroll homecoming football game.

Changing leaves, football games, and hot apple cider. Check, check, check. I am thinking haunted house next...Any suggestions?

autumn.

Whether you prefer autumn or fall, I think there's one thing everyone can agree on. We love this season for the following 10 reasons. 

1. Pumpkin Spiced Latte

2. Hay Rides 

3. Halloween Festivities 

4. Carving Pumpkins

5. Hot Apple Cider

6. Leaf Piles

7. Fall Boots 

8. Apple Picking/ Pumpkin Patch

9. Watch a Scary Movie 

10. Carmel Apples

I started checking some items of my list by attending this past weekends's RIPE! Festival at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens. 

The day started off with sampling creative pancakes from local chefs in the second annual Pancake Flip-Off. We critiqued each one and voted for our favorites. While they were all delicious and unique, my favorite was the pancake by Fat Cats (In Tremont). This pancake was made with Ohio corn, topped with maple syrup, mixed berry compote, and a touch of chèvre. 

The winner was a delicious pumpkin pie-like pancake topped with a bourbon maple syrup and a cinnamon spiced whipped cream.

The rest of the afternoon was spent wandering around the perfectly landscaped botanical gardens and sampling the vendor foods. It was so relaxing taking in the sights and smells of fall while listening to the music of the live bands. 

I even had the opportunity to make some of my own music at the Play Me I'm Yours piano. 

After enjoying the festival, we stopped over at the Cleveland Museum of Art to check out the Chalk Festival. Artists of all ages were working intently on creating vibrant masterpieces. I definitely want to get a square next year. 

Did I miss something? Share you fall favorites in the comments!