Foodie Down South: Roswell, Georgia

Roswell is a true “foodies” destination. From continental cuisine, down-home cooking, southern BBQ, cozy tea rooms, sidewalk cafes and elegant dining, a culinary experience awaits you.

 

1920 Tavern
948 Canton St. Roswell, GA

This casual neighborhood eatery focuses on classic dishes with a modern twist and an impressive bar program boasting both classic and updated cocktails. 1920 Tavern’s refined but approachable cuisine showcases an array of fresh greens, savory starters, market-fresh sea fare and enchanting entrees.

Hola Taqueria & Bar
688 Halcomb Bridge  Rd. Roswell, GA

Looking for a great night of food and friends?  Our Mexican bar and grill features all your favorite fare prepared with an urban flair for a one of a kind flavor that will bring you back for more.  Our outdoor patio, bar, and lounge offers you the opportunity to kick back with friends and enjoy some cervezas while our dining room provides a social environment that complements our urban-inspired Mexican food.  Fresh flavors spice up familiar favorites like lamb tacos for lunch and dinner, while regular drink specials and live music accompany your meal on select evenings.

 

Adele’s on Canton
1169 Canton St Roswell, GA

New Orleans restaurant serving Louisiana seafood and traditional dishes. This cozy niche at the end of Canton Street is the perfect spot to get your Cajun creole fix. Start your day with crawfish gravy biscuits or shrimp and grits, complimented by an endless pot of chicory coffee. There motto is “come hungry, leave happy.” We like it.

Aqua Blue Restaurant
1564 Halcomb Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA

Offering world-class hospitality with a neighborhood feel, along with blue ribbon sushi, mouth-watering seafood and steaks. Residing in the ever growing Roswell restaurant scene with a style and elegance of its own. Plush contemporary atmosphere, global cuisine, expansive menu to excite the palate. Banquet facilities are great for large events holding up to 300 guests. Offering an extensive buffet menu with dishes to suit any taste.

Bistro VG
70 W Crossville Rd. Roswell, GA

A hip, sexy remake of Van Gogh’s restaurant and bar. Bistro VG offers sophisticated cuisine in a modern and chic atmosphere creating a perfect suburban dining spot.

Slopes BBQ Inc
34 Crossville Rd Roswell, GA

Voted Roswell’s best BBQ. Chopped pork, chicken, ribs, Brunswick stew like grandpa made. Homemade cobblers and more. Locally owned and operated.

 

Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House
352 S Atlanta St. Roswell, GA

A warm welcome awaits you at Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House in Historic Roswell, GA! Find the highest quality here. Coffee is served by french press, chemex, drip and manual pour overs. Skilled baristas will pour latte art in your cup. Come see and taste the difference.

This post is sponsored by Palmer Dodge Georgia.

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What’s in Your Ranch?

This is a sponsored post. Though I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.

As you all know I have started on a mission to not only lose weight, but eat healthy. You would think that the two are one in the same, however, there were a lot of things I didn’t know when I first started my weight loss journey. Counting calories may do it for you in terms of weight loss – but what about the nutrients your body needs? What about all the other ‘junk’ you’re constantly putting in your body thinking that you are making a healthy eating decision?

One of my favorite ‘go-to-diet’ foods have always been salads. Throw some protein on it (my favorite is steak) add some veggies and maybe some sunflower seeds and of course gobs of ranch dressing. I mean the dressing is what really makes the salad right?

Before when picking the dressing I’d of course go by taste first – then I would look at the calorie content. Keeping myself under my daily calorie goal at the time was my only objective and I didn’t notice (or think to look) about the other ingredients. When you really start looking you’ll notice most brands are full of sugar, preservatives and artificial ingredients – yuck! I learned quick that just because it was low calorie or even low fat, didn’t mean that it was going to be good for me by any means; in fact, it was probably worse than the full fat/higher calorie alternatives.

So during my research I was introduced to Tessemae’s Creamy Ranch dressing and I was immediately impressed. Made with only clean, simple, real ingredients Tessemae’s knocked the socks of the competitors.
Not only is it sugar free- but its dairy free, gluten free, verified GMO free and Whole30 and Kosher approved.

 Tessemae’s makes 25 different dressings, marinades and condiments – and they use real, whole sourced food ingredients and are USDA organic – and available at Kroger.

I love that they have individual sizes – this makes packing lunches for me (or for the kiddos) a whole lot easier!
Check out your local Kroger for Tessemae’s products, and try it for yourself!

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What Not to Miss in Canoga Park, CA

Anytime you travel to California the list of ‘things to do’  can be a bit overwhelming! Everywhere you go there are tons to look at, do, and just take in! But there are a few things that I think anyone traveling to Canoga Park just shouldn’t miss – well there’s quite a bit, but these are my top favorites!

Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Guests will explore the outdoor sets and soundstages used to create productions like Gilmore Girls, The Big Bang Theory, and Argo. Each tour includes exclusive access to original props, costumes, picture cars, and sets used from Batman to Friends. Additionally, studio tour guest will stop at the DC Universe: The Exhibit, the real Central perk set, the original Batmobiles, and so much more! Visit the best studio tour in LA and interact with all the magic of filmmaking!

Jetboy Helicopter Tours

Take a ride in the #1 helicopter tour company in the area – they offer all types of tours including the romance packages to  make your flight truly memorable for you and your special guest. Enjoy a private encounter for two, Champagne, French pastries, red roses, great music…the helicopters are air conditioned with leather seats and whisper quiet headsets to make your tour as luxurious and as comfortable as possible.

Malibu Wine Safaris
Explore the 1,000 acre Saddlerock Ranch and vineyard in Malibu. Your trusty guide and driver team will lead the adventure on custom-built open-air Safari vehicles. You’ll make stops along the way to take in the scenery, taste local wines, and get up close and personal with animals you never knew were Angelinos too: zebras, camels, alpacas, bison, and even Stanley the Giraffe.

Haunted Santa Monica Ghosts Tours

The premier walking ghost tour of Santa Monica’s historic pier and the bluffs that overlook Santa Monica Bay. Be sure to make a reservation!

Marina Del Rey Sportfishing
13552 Fiji Way Marina Del Rey, CA

Ideally located in Marina del Rey, California, our U.S. Coast Guard Licensed vessels offer a variety of Los Angeles fishing trips for beginners and pros alike. Daily open party and private fishing charters and seasonal whale watching. Marina del Rey Sportfishing has the right fishing trip for individuals and groups alike.

Cave of Munits
24501 W Vanowen St West Hills, CA

Are you looking for a hike that’s an action-packed adventure? Rarely does a 2.1-mile loop offer as much excitement as this hike to the Cave of Munits and Castle Peak. You’ll start with a gradual warm up across El Escorpion Park to Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve, where you’ll find a fun vertical cave just begging to be explored. You won’t need any ropes or gear to get through the cave, just an adventurous spirit that will lead you out the top of the cave to a tough off-trail ascent to Castle Peak, a panoramic summit towering over the west end of the San Fernando Valley. The loop closes with a swift descent from the crown of jumbled rocks.

This post is sponsored by West Valley Chrysler Jeep.

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Top 5 Restaurants Not to Miss in Norco, CA

Every time my family has planned a trip, I’ve scoured the internet for the best (and sometimes unknown) restaurants in the area. I mean, a girl has’ gotta’ eat right? I’ve found some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in family-owned restaurants, or even little hole-in-the-wall bar and grills. Norco California was no different, and there’s a ton of places you don’t want to miss!

 

Deep Sea Fish Grill
140 Hidden Valley Parkway Norco, CA

A popular family-owned restaurant with quality food with phenomenal taste and reasonable prices. The food has some Asian and Mexican influences, as compared to the traditional places.  These influences are evident by the other condiments provided, such as Tapatio and Sriracha and some of their dishes.  They serve Tempura style shrimp and Panko chicken, and Tofu Tacos. The restaurant uses Swai, a fish from Southeast Asia.  It’s a great fish choice for their nicely battered fish, as the outcome is moist, not dry and flaky. . Their Sweet Potato fries are phenomenal and their rice is pleasantly unusual, a combination of rice, garlic and coconut milk.

Their Fish Tacos tortillas overflows with fish and are served with great tasting beans, cream coleslaw and tomatoes. They offer many choices for those who want to stick to their paleo or zone diets – which is a huge plus!

Flavourful
2200 Hamner Ave Norco, CA

Though not really a restaurant (you can pick up a quick lunch or dinner here), Flavourful is the best drink shop in town;coffee, tea, smoothies, and BOBA! Tthey are willing to work up any flavor combination you desire and will recommend something if you aren’t sure.The smoothies seem to be the favorite amongst the locals – and I have to agree. The avocado smoothie is delish – mushed, buttery avocados with sugar, vanilla, and cream is something you must try before you write it off! Check them out!

Crazy Brothers Sushi
3699 Hamner Ave Norco, CA

These brothers may be a little crazy, but they make some killer sushi! Don’t let the small building fool you – inside is some of the best sushi you will ever taste. Between the purple rice (yes, I said purple) and the Death Valley Roll that comes out ON FIRE – this is definitely a must go spot for any sushi lover.

Rodeo Cafe
847 Sixth St Norco, CA

This small quaint old west cafe might surprise you – delicious food with huge portions (say hello doggy bag) and for lack of a better word – CHEAP! Eating here with a family of 4 for my family was cheaper than a trip to McDonalds. They have a great lunch and dinner menu, but I’d suggest giving their breakfast a try. (Trust me, eat breakfast or brunch here – you definitely won’t need lunch or maybe even dinner!) Eggs Rodeo is a must try… perfectly poached eggs on top of steak and an English muffin topped w/ hollandaise sauce!

Badlands BBQ
120 Hidden Valley Parkway

If u like slow and low cooked BBQ this is probably the best spot for brisket and pulled pork – their jalapeno mac n cheese is to die for and the corn on the cob was roasted to perfection. They have a great kids menu which includes sliders and fries, which have HUGE portions even my 12 yr old who usually orders off the adult menu was able to enjoy the kids menu this time around. They also have a delish smokehouse salad for anyone who is on a paleo friendly diet.

This post is sponsored by Browning Dodge, Chrysler Jeep Ram.

 

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Fun and Festivals in Gilbert Arizona

You don’t have to wait until January to get moving – check out some of these great events in Gilbert, Arizona this month and into next year.

Riparian After Dark
December 16th & 17th
5:30 – 9 p.m.
The Riparian Preserve comes alive with a holiday glow!  Stroll around the candle-lit trail at Water Ranch lake with hundreds of luminaries as well as numerous festive light displays at every turn. This is a rare opportunity for those who appreciate nature to experience the thrill of  nighttime at the preserve.

In addition to the lighted trail, we will feature a variety of school choirs, carolers and other live holiday entertainment.  There will be light refreshments available for purchase.  All trails are ADA accessible.

25th Annual ZooLights
The Phoenix Zoo
Through Jan 8th , 2017

Join the Phoenix Zoo at the Valley’s brightest holiday tradition: ZooLights presented by SRP! Celebrating 25 years, ZooLights shines with millions of lights, a three-story-high holiday tree, hundreds of glimmering light displays and lakeside music-in-motion shows. ZooLights is open to the public Wednesday, November 23 through Sunday, January 8, 2017.

2016 Fishmas at SEA LIFE Aquarium
Through December 24th

Join SEA LIFE Aquarium every weekend in December, through the 24th, as they celebrate the holidays with decorations, activities and much more! Don’t miss Underwater Santa, holiday scavenger hunts, and ornament decorating.

Holiday Bricktacular
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Through December 25th

Celebrate the holidays with special LEGO® themed activities at the Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND®  Discovery Center Arizona, every weekend in December. Participants get to enjoy building a LEGO® ornament, Christmas in Miniland®, LEGO® Winter Wonderland, and holiday decorations all throughout the attraction.

Gilbert’s Global Village Festival
TBD
Gilbert’s Global Village Festival is a multicultural celebration for all ages. The festival brings neighbors together in a friendly, educational way to learn more about each other. Community members, schools, non-profits and service organizations are invited to join us in 2017 for the 13th annual Gilbert Global Village Festival. This family event highlights some of the traditional and contemporary forms of dance, music, children’s activities, arts & crafts and ethnic foods from countries far away on the green open spaces of the Gilbert Civic Center North Campus. Our mission is to create opportunities for individuals and communities to celebrate, share and sustain the arts and the rich cultural traditions of countries from around the world.

2017 Rock N’ Roll Arizona
Tempe Beach Park
Jan 14th & 15th

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & 1/2 Marathon January 14-15, 2017 combines running, travel and entertainment, providing a world-class event atmosphere for participants and spectators alike. An assortment of live music and local high school cheerleading squads are staged approximately every mile of the 26.2 and 13.1-mile courses. The marathon begins in Phoenix, races through Scottsdale and finishes in Tempe. The ½ marathon course begins and ends in Tempe.

Family Bird Walk
Desert Rivers Audobon
Jan 21st & Jan 28th

Desert Rivers Audubon Family Bird Walks. We provide loaner binoculars, Bird Bingo Cards for kids, and expert leaders to take you around the ponds at both locations. We also have field guide books and other nature items for sale at our display tent. Walks leave every 15 minutes or so and last about 45 minutes. No fees or admission charge and no pre-registration…just show up!!!

UCP 3rd Annual Fun, Run, Walk & Roll
Kiwanis Park
Feb 5th

The United Cerebral Palsy’s 10K/5K/1 mile walk benefits those with special needs, such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, developmental delays and learning disabilities.

Gilbert Outdoors Expo
Feb 25th
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Put on your camouflage, boots and head over to the Gilbert Outdoors Expo presented by Banner Health Centers at the Riparian Preserve.

You will have a chance to brush up on various outdoor activities or learn new  skills, including fishing, camping, hunting, hiking and much more.  This premier event will draw exhibitors and attendees statewide with an expected attendance of over 4,000 people.

 KA-POW! Superhero Adventure Run
 March 19th|
8 am. – ??

Get ready to tie on your capes and be a Superhero at The KA-POW! Superhero Adventure Run on Saturday, March 19th presented by Banner Health Center. This is a costumed run fit for the whole family with fun and challenging obstacles. Runners are encouraged to wear their favorite superhero costume as they participate in a family friendly course with 20 + playful obstacles, with a distance just under 2 miles. The Adventure run course includes many challenging obstacles such as the Spiderman Tower, Thor Tires, Iron Man Crawl, Wonder Woman Wall, and back by popular demand the Aqua-man’s waterslide. Plus, this year there will be a 4 story high water slide- Don’t miss out!

This post is sponsored by Earnhardt Chrysler Jeep Dodge.

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