Austin Sweets!

It's no secret around these parts that I have a sweet tooth. Austin proved the perfect place to indulge in some tasty treats! There was an unbelievable array of option from ice cream to cupcakes to donuts. We visited as many as we could manage over the course of the week.

Amy's Ice Cream

Ice cream was high on my list of sweet treats to try because it was hot while we were in Austin. Amy's was similar to Cold Stone Creamery in that you were able to add various mix-ins. The selection was unique, but we stuck with basic vanilla and strawberry (with banana topping). Definitely recommend stopping here for a scoop or cone. And there is also an airport location!

Gourdough's

Hands down this was the best eating experience of the trip. We had Gourdough's on our list, but weren't anticipating that we would have time to make it there. As luck would have it, we passed by its food truck location on our way to lunch one day. It was simply meant to be. Please, please, please put this on your list of MUST visit places. The doughnut creations were heavenly!! I had Miss Shortcake (cream cheese icing with fresh cut strawberries). Chris had Funky Monkey (grilled bananas and cream cheese icing with brown sugar). Don't miss this deliciousness!!

Sugar Mama's

Cupcakes are my jam. Sugar Mama's met all my expectations. The options were ample, but not overwhelming and everything we tried tasty fabulous. We tried Champion Carrot Cake, Southern Belle (red velvet), Jack's Lemon, and Strawberry Shortkick. They kept well in our hotel for a couple of days as we worked our way through them bite by bite. Certainly worth a visit!

Voo Doo Doughnuts

We wandered upon Voo Doo Doughnuts' Sixth Street location after our Esther's Follies show. The wait was insanely long, but there was an interesting live band that helped us pass the time. We tried four different types - The Arnold Palmer (plain cake doughnut with vanilla frosting and lemonade/iced tea dust), The Neopolitan (chocolate cake doughnut with vanilla frosting, strawberry dust, and three marshmallows), a regular glazed raised yeast doughnut, and The Grape Ape (raised yeast doughnut with vanilla frosting and grape dust and lavender sprinkles). None of them blew me away. I'd actually suggest skipping this place unless you just really want to try some crazy doughnut combinations.

Cheesecake Bites

On our search for food trucks, we found Peace, Love, & Cheesecake Bites. We both tried one of the tasty little bites. Mine was caramel apple - delicious! We pretty quickly headed off to find some trucks with more of a lunch menu, but this neat truck was worth a mention.

Hey Cupcake!

Hey Cupcake! was another random food truck find. Honestly, I wasn't super impressed with the limited menu, but I had heard of the company so I wanted to give them a shot. I got a pumpkin cupcake with cream cheese icing. It was pretty good, but I definitely preferred Sugar Mama's.

What is your favorite dessert option?

Andrea :)

Austin Eats!

Delicious food was the name of the game for us in Austin. Fortunately, there was an endless supply. I was lucky to have a friend that lives in Austin and provided us with a detailed (and categorized!) list of options. As we made our way through the list, Chris and I came to the conclusion that we could spend a full month in Austin and never hit all the top spots. SO. MUCH. GOOD. FOOD.

BBQ

We were tempted by the famous Franklin's BBQ, but ultimately decided we'd rather sleep in than stand in line all morning. Mike from Austin Wine & Cider mentioned Black's BBQ was nearby so we decided to give it a shot. The restaurant was cafeteria style with a number of meat options and sides. I was smitten with the mac and cheese. Chris enjoyed the BBQ more than I did, but that's normal for us. The banana pudding was on point though.

Tex Mex

There were endless options of Tex Mex restaurants at every turn in Austin. We opted for an off the beaten track restaurant - Juan in a Million. It was fun to check out a local spot. I stuck with standard tacos which were delicious, but the portions were massive! We would definitely return to this spot.

Food Trucks

Food trucks are popular in Austin. We went to three different food truck parks searching for a good lunch destination. I wish we had made time for them on the weekend because I think we would have gotten more of the full experience. That being said, we were able to try the popular Torchy's Tacos at South Austin's Trailer Park & Eatery. Chris got The Democrat and Chicken Fajita tacos. He enjoyed the variety of options while I picked my way through a chicken taco. We opted for sweets at the other food truck locations so check back tomorrow for more info on those!

Steak

For our anniversary dinner, we wanted to experience a local steakhouse. After some research online, Chris found ALC Steaks. The restaurant was lovely, and the food was delicious. We had wonderful service throughout dinner, and they even provided us with complimentary dessert for our anniversary. Definitely recommend this local restaurant if you are looking for a high end dinner in Austin.

Brunch

We met my friend, Marissa, and her family for brunch at Kerbey Lane Cafe. We hadn't seen one another in nearly a decade so I was too busy catching up and enjoying conversation to snag any photos of the phenomenal pancakes. I had the short stack - one seasonal pumpkin and one banana. Both were perfect. There are a number of locations for this restaurant around the city so we highly recommend finding one and checking it out. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait to get in - especially on Sunday!

Pizza

We hadn't planned to eat any pizza during our time in Austin, but one afternoon we somehow ended up at Southside Flying Pizza complete with entertaining graffiti art decor. As New Yorkers, we don't often try pizza when we travel, but this was surprisingly good. We stuck with standard pepperoni, but they had a lot of different (and unique) topping combos.

What is your favorite thing about trying new restaurants when you travel?

Andrea :)

The 2016 Mac & Cheese Bowl

Mac & Cheese.  Yum!  Honestly, who doesn't love macaroni and cheese?  So tasty!  This weekend, Chris and I were able to taste 30 different types of the delicious stuff.  It may (or may not) have been a tad TOO much, but for a worthy cause - the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York - you can't really say no.

Fortunately, we had the expertise of multiple year Mac & Cheese Bowler (our friend, Shannon) to help us craft a strategy and provide extremely helpful tips!  The #1 tip was to only taste one noodle initially.  If you like the sample, go for it.  If you don't like the sample, trash it.  There is too much good mac and cheese out there to waste stomach space on so-so samples.  Genius!

Ironically, our first stop - Wolff's Biergarten - turned out to be our favorite of the whole day.  They boasted a five cheese concoction topped with crumbled bacon.  It was as good as it sounds...and, subsequently, the only sample I tried a second time.  So good.

Most of the samples blended together after awhile.  Lots of pulled pork and sriracha found themselves in the mix.  The most bizarre of the day was a Big Mac version of mac and cheese - um, no thanks!  It was the only one where I totally recoiled at the taste.  The spicy versions weren't too high on my list either, but some of them weren't so bad.  Valente's Three Little Pigs gave samples that included three cheeses and three meats - surprisingly not terrible...and actually good enough for third-place as it turns out.

The longest line was for Druthers Brewing's fantastic creation - a chicken-and-waffles mac and cheese.  It featured a fried nugget of chicken and seven-cheese blend macaroni soaked in sriracha-maple syrup on a bed of country gravy with a red velvet waffle on the side.  It bested Wolff's by a mere 2% of the ballots cast for first-place at the competition.  Definitely a tasty sample with a fantastic presentation!  Besides judging the actual samples, Bowl attendees were also asked to judge the overall display at each booth. Mazzone Hospitality won the award for best display, but we thought that Elegant Touch (pictured below on bottom left) was most unique.

The second best tip of the day was actually given weeks in advance - arrive early!  We were there when the doors opened.  It really made a difference that first hour.  After that, the crowds became nearly unbearable.  The crowd was estimated at more than 2,500 people for the seventh annual event held inside the gymnasium at Siena College.  Thankfully, we hit most of the booths before the crowd became unmanageable.

What is your favorite type of mac and cheese?

Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in November

This month started strong with the running of my second NYC Marathon, but then it held some much needed rest!  I needed it desperately after the marathon.  However, I didn't want all of the efforts to get in running shape to disappear after the big race so I made the choice to sign up for a short 4-miler at the end of November.

I started back at the beginning the week before the 4-mile God's Love We Deliver run with one solitary mile.  I ran the entire mile...and it felt good.  Two days later, I ran a couple solid miles.  Still felt good.  Another two days, I gave it my all for three miles.  A bit more difficult for me to not take any breaks, but I did it.  I was ready!  My plan worked well because I ran for the entire time during the 4-mile race...finishing with my best time all year - 11:52 per mile!

Nov 16 - 1 mile run on treadmill

Nov 18 - 2 mile run on treadmill

Nov 20 - 3 mile run on treadmill

I gave myself another break for the Thanksgiving holiday, but I know I've got to get back to it for December.  I began tracking my daily steps with my new FitBit starting on December 1 so it will be interesting to see how I do with step counts all month!  I don't have any races on the books for the next couple of months so it will be more important than ever that I make time for the gym!

What are you favorite winter workouts?

 
Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in October

In September, I didn't manage to prioritize my fitness goals properly so I promised myself I would do better in October.  I am happy to report - I met that goal!

Not only did I complete a half marathon, but I also hit all my training runs.  I did modify when needed, but I was thrilled to be able to mark each and every one off my calendar!

As you are reading this, I am running my second NYC Marathon!  I shared my goals with you on Friday.  Most importantly, no matter what happens out there on those 26.2 miles I plan to be smiling at the finish line!  Thankfully, we are set to have beautiful weather!  I look forward to sharing my journey with you soon!!

Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in September

Honestly, this past month has been a major struggle on the marathon training end.  The month began with a long weekend visit as we hosted my out-of-town parents.  Straying from my routine for those five days wasn't so bad.  I could have recovered from that small deviance easily.  However, the day after my parents left, Chris and I boarded a plane for our west coast adventure.  We did manage a couple of days of significant hiking and walking the steep terrain of California, but I didn't run once during our 10 day journey.

September 1 - 4 mile run

September 3 - 5 mile run

September 10 - 2 mile run; 6 mile bike

September 22 - 4 mile run

September 24 - 7 mile run 

September 26 - 16 mile bike

September 29 - 5 mile run

So...you can imagine my trepidation when I returned on September 21 with only a handful of short runs under my belt for the whole month.  I expected to be in real trouble.  And maybe I am, but I also think the rest gave my legs a much needed break.  I felt strong in those first two runs after the trip.  I am working hard to attempt to return to a reasonable level of endurance in the long runs.  My true test will come next weekend when I try my hand...or rather legs...at the Brooklyn Rock-n-Roll Half I'm signed up to run.  It is sure to give me an indication of how this marathon will pan out since I'm just under a month away now!

Here's hoping for a quality October in the training department!

Andrea :)

A Perfect End to Summer: Baseball & Ice Cream

Sadly, summer is coming to an end.  Everyone is headed back to school, and fall is just around the corner now.  I couldn't think of a better way to close this fun-filled few months than a trip to the ball park!  My parents have been to the city to visit numerous times, but had never ventured up to the Bronx to check out the Yankees.

We caught a great game over Labor Day weekend.  The Tampa Bay Rays were in town.  The game went back and forth with the home team finally pulling out the victory.  We saw at least three home runs that I can recall so there wasn't much of a lull in action at this game!

We enjoyed seats in a shady part of the ballpark, but that didn't mean it wasn't hot.  The weather had been fairly mild, but really peaked over the holiday weekend!  Guess that was summer's way of saying she wasn't quite ready to turn in for the year!

And when it's hot and humid out, there's only one treat that truly satisfies - ICE CREAM!!  We really got our money's worth at a unique ice cream shop in Chinatown!

We loved being able to watch our ice cream come to life before our very eyes at 10 Below.  We all selected a different flavor...and I managed to get photos of each being made despite the tight conditions in the small shop! #bloggerwin

Complete process of making Strawberry Shawty...YUM!

I tried three of the flavors we ordered and each was delicious!!  I don't think it is possible to go wrong with the ice cream combos at 10 Below!  We enjoyed Monkey Business, Cookie Monster, Strawberry Shawty, and Key Lime Pie (pictured going clockwise below).

The shop is hidden in the depths of Chinatown and not very close to the subway, but you better believe Chris and I will be back before too long!

How did you spend Labor Day weekend?

Andrea :)

Exploring LIC with Mom and Dad

Christopher and I have lived in Long Island City for just over a year now. After our first summer in LIC, it is safe to say this little pocket of Queens really comes alive at this time of year. The two big recurring weekend events are Smorgasburg and LIC Flea. We've been to both a handful of times. And really enjoyed introducing my parents to the area with these two events over Labor Day Weekend.

You can't really say you've experienced Smorgasburg unless you try the Ramen Burger. It really hits the spot. A little salty, a little savory, a little tangy. Somehow, it just works. Mom and Dad gave it a shot though Dad was a bit more skeptical than Mom. In the end, they gave it a thumbs up!

We opted for cold treats at LIC Flea & Food since it was such a hot day! The gelato macaroon sandwiches are absolutely delicious. We ordered a passionfruit and vanilla one...and neither disappointed! While debating on our treat selection, we browsed the market style booths and a couple really caught our eye. Chris and I couldn't pass up the creative sign of Queens with our first home of LIC designated on the upper left side.

We spent a bit of time walking along the water at Gantry Plaza State Park, too. There are great views of Manhattan and the Queensboro Bridge, lots of unique benches, and, of course, the Pepsi Cola sign! Mom and Dad also enjoyed the scenery from our apartment rooftop. LIC is the perfect spot to watch the sun set over Manhattan's east side. Stunning views!

Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in August

I'm one month into marathon training.  It's going well.  It started off rough though.  Really rough.  But after a month, I'm good.  Well...as good as I could have hoped at this point! Surprisingly, I stuck with my schedule of running (sometimes in more of a walk/run pattern) four days a week.  It was great in the beginning.  I felt like it really helped me to get back into the swing of things.  However, as the month progressed and my body got used to running those short(er) runs during the week, it started to feel a little repetitive to run back-to-back on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Given that and a number of other reasons, I decided to make a switch for September.  I am going to cut back to three runs per week.  As the mileage increases both during the week and on the weekend long run, I want to ensure I give myself a proper amount of time to recover between runs.  We'll also be gone for a portion of the month and I know it won't be realistic to keep up with all the runs then so I am attempting to keep things somewhat attainable.

My only other update to the schedule is the addition of a half marathon the second weekend in October.  Originally, that was scheduled to be my final long run (20 miles), but after further reflection I think a timed race at that point will be more beneficial for me.  Mostly, I feel it will give me a realistic idea on my pace for the marathon itself.  Either way, I am looking forward to the challenge/test!

Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in July

July was a bit of a rest month for me.  Mostly due to our crammed travel schedule having us away nearly half the month on various trips.  I did stick with the daily challenge for everyday this month except my birthday weekend!) and managed a few low intensity workouts mid-month.  This daily challenge was by far the most difficult one I have completed.  I felt the burn often!

Tomorrow, I will be posting my training plan for the NYC Marathon so running will be back to top priority in August and the coming months.  I am looking forward to getting it back on the schedule so that must mean the July break was a good thing for me...at least mentally.

Andrea :)

Charleston Eats

No exploration of a city is complete without devouring some food in a few of the city's best spots! We spent a good deal of time seeing all the sites in Charleston, but we managed to work in a few meals as well.  We experienced two fabulously fun restaurants while we were in town - brunch at Hominy Grill and dinner at Jestine's Kitchen.  We also grabbed breakfast one morning at Callie's Hot Little Biscuit - yum!  And you know we found a dessert spot - Cupcake DownSouth!

There was an hour wait when we arrived at the subtle Hominy Grill location.  It is located right in the middle of a neighborhood not too far away from popular King Street.  It came highly recommended so we waited it out.  And it was definitely worth it!  They are known for their shrimp and grits, but none of us were brave enough to get those.  I did try the cheese grits though and they definitely get a thumbs up.  We also splurged for the Fried Green Tomato appetizer.  It was amazing!!  Some of us got breakfast and some got lunch.  Chris had the Fried Green Tomato BLT....certainly unique!

Callie's Hot Little Biscuit was fantastic!  It is a tiny little shop on King Street, but SO worth it!  We lucked out and were actually able to grab a couple of seats inside.

The selection made deciding which three to try a real chore.  All the options looked great!  Chris and I eventually settled on blackberry, country ham, and cheese & chive.  They were all delicious!  Mom even let me have a bite of the cinnamon one - the only biscuit mom and dad opted for that we didn't.  So nice of her to share :)

Jestine's posed a bit of a wait as well.  Again, it was highly recommended so we waited it out.  It was so hot they even had fans and a cooler of water with cups for those waiting outside to enjoy.

Once inside, we munched on some super tasty cucumbers and onions before our meal arrived.  We also ordered some cornbread - SO good!  Chris tried the Cheerwine.  I ordered the pecan fried chicken breast with two vegetables - mac & cheese and watermelon...not sure either of those qualify as veggies, but I'll take it.  Super neat little place if you don't mind the wait!

Finally, you know we found a cupcake shop!  And not just any cupcake shop either.  The icing on these bad boys was piled high!!

We tried bits and pieces of several different ones - red velvet, creamsicle, strawberry, watermelon, coconut, and charleston love - a cupcake specially made to benefit the Mother Emanuel Hope Fund.  Each one I tried hit the spot so I honestly don't think you can go wrong here.  Well, as long as you scrape off about half the icing before you dig in!

Have you been to Charleston?

Where did you eat?

Andrea :)

Health & Fitness in June

Since my workout strategy for May was a success, I decided to complete a similar total body challenge each day in June.  The challenge this month was more intense, but I felt much stronger as each day passed.  Toward the end of the month, my brother and his family came to visit and I was gone on a work trip, but I managed to work in a handful of two-a-days in order to fully complete the challenge.  Here's what the rest of June looked like for me...

June 1-6

Mon - Rest
Tues - Rest
Wed - 5 mile run
Thurs - Rest
Fri -5 mile run

Sat - Rest

June 7-13

Sun - Rest
Mon -12 mile stationary bike
Tues - 3.1 mile run

Wed - Yoga

Thurs - 3.1 mile run

Fri - Rest

Sat - Oakley New York Mini 10k - I SET A PR!!

June 14-20

Sun - Rest
Mon - Bootcamp

Tues - Rest

Wed - 10 mile stationary bike

Thurs - Rest

Fri - Rest

Sat - 7 mile walk all over NYC

June 21-27

Sun - Rest
Mon - Rest

Tues - Rest

Wed - Work Travel

Thurs - Work Travel

Fri - Work Travel

Sat - Rest

June 28-30

Sun - Rest
Mon - Bootcamp

Tues - 10 mile stationary bike

Going into July, I feel ready to get back on the running train.  And I have a new daily challenge to keep me on my toes as well.  We do have quite a bit of traveling going on though so I am just going to do my best to make the most of this month! 

Andrea :)