happy halloween!

BOO!

Happy Halloween! I'm seriously shocked at how quickly October flew by... the holidays are officially around the corner. However, I love Halloween--mostly because of the abundance of chocolate and candy (Coworkers dump it off in the break room like crazy. Their loss is my gain!)

via

I unfortunately have class tonight but I'm crossing my fingers the professor lets us out early! Send me some positive energy, people! There are a lot of fun Halloween festivities going on in Fort Worth ranging from mellow to wild and I'd love to partake in at least one.

Here's my countdown of top 5 Halloween celebrations in town. Let me know if you end up going to one and have a Happy Halloween!

5. The Brownstone

Time: 10pm-2am. Live DJ and a haunted house. Costume contest on Friday night (this is a two day celebration, folks!) See the official event page for more info.

4. Chimy's

Time: 9pm-12am. Drink specials and costume contest with prizes for top 3 winners. RSVP to the party here!

3. Shipping & Receiving

Time: 7pm-12am. Up and coming local radio station The Pirate is throwing a Halloween Ball fundraiser. Live local music and a costume contest with a cash prize for the winner. Read more about the fundraiser on their Facebook page.

2. The Bearded Lady

Time: 6pm-2am. Live DJ, variety of pumpkin beers on tap, and a costume contest at midnight. More info here.

1. Tillman's Roadhouse

Time: 6-9pm. Live music & costume contest. First appetizer and drink free! Check out the drink menu they created especially for Halloween on their Facebook page!

More noteworthy parties: Buffalo Bros, Capital Bar, and The Live Oak.

xo.

0

a weekend of firsts

This weekend was full of more firsts for me. I love that blogging has rejuvenated my willingness to try new things as opposed to frequenting standbys. Don't get me wrong, having a place or a few places that I become a "regular" to is pretty cool. But Fort Worth is growing at such a rapid pace these days that I can't stand the thought of missing out on something great!

On Saturday night, the hubs and I popped in at Times Ten Cellars off of West 7th. We had heard great things from friends who had been there and were excited to try it out! My expectations were blown away.

Upon entering I was immediately taken with the lofty design of the place. Exposed brick, high ceilings, and large windows instilled airiness; however, the warm colors, leather sofas, and candlelight exuded a more intimate vibe. Our server was super helpful and allowed us to try a few wines before we decided on a bottle of the 2010 Desert Red. If you like a drier red, I totally recommend it!

We posted up on one of the sofas with our wine and a cheese plate for a few hours, making for quite a relaxing date night.

Afterward, we met friends at the newish Deluxe Bar & Grille in Montgomery Plaza to watch some football and baseball. The place is already notorious for it's massive collection of televisions lining the walls. Though a little distracting for a normal night out, it was great for a group hangout. Drink prices were pretty unbeatable, even during non-happy hour. I also tried out the s'mores and was pretty smitten. I for sure want to go back again and try out something from the normal dinner menu!

Rounding out my weekend of firsts, I finally made it to the new Max's Wine Dive for brunch on Sunday. I had been to the Dallas location once before and was eager to see the Fort Worth restaurant. Unlike the bright and sunny Dallas Max's, the Fort Worth interiors gave off a moody, dive-like atmosphere. It was love at first sight! I ordered the enormous fried egg sandwich to split with a friend while the hubs got the Fort Worth Frito Pie Omelette (with a side of fried chicken, of course.) As expected, the food was fantastic and the service was perfect. I also sampled the Roasted Relleno and thought it was pretty good. If you are really hungry though, I'd definitely go for the sandwich or fried chicken! And what's brunch without mimosas? I deviated from the traditional orange juice to test the grapefruit mimosas and they pretty much rocked my world!

I had so much fun venturing out of my routine this weekend to visit places that have been on my "to-do" list for some time. I highly recommend checking them out if you live in or visit the Fort Worth area.

What's your favorite restaurant in Fort Worth? It can be new or a long-standing hole in the wall. I want to know!

xo.

0

garlic parmesan kale chips

I've had kale in smoothies but never in a chip form. Kale chips at the grocery store often come in a tiny bag with a price tag of at least $5--what a rip off! Instead, I  decided it was time to try to make my own. I went to Trader Joe's the other day and got a big bag of chopped kale (for a mere $1.99) and set to work to make my own kale chips!

The process was so simple and the results were delicious. This will definitely be a go-to snack in my house!

Ingredients
Kale, washed/dried and chopped into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Grated parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Sea salt

Method
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Put a few handfuls of kale into a large container with a lid. Kale will shrink as it bakes so put a little more than you think you'll need.
3. Pour 1-2 tbsp of olive oil onto the kale. Put lid on container securely and shake to distribute the oil evenly throughout the kale.
4. Spread oil-coated kale evenly onto a baking sheet. Sprinkle a teaspoon or two of sea salt over the leaves. Follow with a light dusting of garlic power and parmesan.
5. Bake kale in oven for 10-15 minutes, until leaves begin to brown on the edges.
6. Remove kale from oven and let cool a minute. Transfer to a paper towel-covered plate to soak up any extra oil. Enjoy!

Have you made kale chips before? What are your favorite toppings/flavors?

xo.

0

weekend fun

This weekend was one of the most jam-packed weekends I've had in a while. Saturday, I went to a baby shower for a dear friend in Dallas. It was so great to catch up and see her absolutely glowing! I can't wait to meet her little man in a few months. 

Afterward, I headed back to Fort Worth to watch the Aggie game with the hubs before making our way to Ranch Bash. The weather was just perfect and I loved bundling up in my puffer vest. :) A birthday dinner at the T&P Tavern for one of my best friends rounded out the evening. The Tavern is such a great place to relax--the food is fantastic, drink selection and prices are great, and there's tons of seating and TV's playing all the weekend sports games. I may have to dedicate an entire post to that place pretty soon!

Sunday, we spent the morning at our favorite Starbucks and made our way out to Dallas (yep, twice in one weekend) to meet friends at the State Fair. This was the first time I'd ever been so I was pretty excited. Despite the horrendous traffic (learn to merge, people!) we made it safely and found a pretty clutch parking spot! After hearing so much buzz about this year's fried foods, I was determined to try at least one thing. I of course had to get a corn dog before setting out to hunt for the fried red velvet cupcake. Y'all... it was awesome.

We spent Sunday evening in the company of some newer friends over dinner and Walking Dead--not simultaneously, of course!

xo.

0

fall weather, fair weather

TGIF!

Is it just me or did this week go super fast? I am so looking forward to a weekend that is jam-packed with fun social events. 

Sunday afternoon, I'm heading to the Texas State Fair with my husband and friends. This will be the first time I've ever been--I'm beyond excited! I've heard so many stories about the amazing fried this and that, so I'm already scoping out my options. (ahem... fried red velvet cupcake, anyone?)

I'm also so thankful the weather is going to be pleasant for the first weekend in what seems like ages. Sunny and a high of 73, I'll take it! I even planned out a potential outfit to wear to the fair. I bought some burgundy skinny cords on sale from American Eagle a while back and have been dying to incorporate them into fall ensembles. I think this weekend will be a perfect opportunity!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / hive & honey chevron drop earrings out of stock. similar here: 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

Have a wonderful weekend!

xo.

0

classic whiskey sour

My happy hour drink of choice has typically been a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry. However, I've been thinking of switching up my go-to drink for something a little more "grown up" and classic.

Enter the whiskey sour. I'm not talking about the kind using the sugary sweet and sour mixer you buy at the store--this recipe uses fresh lemon juice and organic agave nectar for a delicious drink that is just as simple to prepare at home.

Classic Whiskey Sour
Makes two drinks

4 oz. whiskey
1.5 oz. agave nectar
juice of 2 lemons
ice

Combine whiskey, agave, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well to mix, then divide between two glasses and serve. To mellow it out a bit, I like to add a tiny splash of cold water.

This drink is the perfect nightcap after a long day and a nice alternative to the usual glass of red. Cheers!

xo.

0

rustic apple galette

A happy accident led me to trying out this recipe for a delicious, rustic apple galette.

Backstory: I thought I grabbed gluten free pizza dough at the grocery store a few weeks ago, only to realize when I got home that I mistakenly picked up gluten free pie crust dough. In my defense, the packages were nearly identical. I immediately began to search Pinterest for a recipe that incorporated pie crust.

I came across an apple galette recipe via Food and Wine and fell in love with its rustic simplicity. The recipe was easy to follow, made even easier by the fact that I didn't have to make the dough!

The result was a glorious and delicious dessert. I love that the more imperfect it looks, the better. Even my hubs gave this recipe two thumbs up!

Note: I baked my galette for about 40 minutes as opposed to the recommended one hour mentioned in the recipe. I noticed my galette was getting quite golden brown and starting to burn just a little on the edges so I went ahead and removed it from the oven. For the pie dough, I used Pillsbury brand but I imagine any brand would work just fine.

0

project cupcake | life is sweet

On my old blog, I started a self-assigned mission, called Project Cupcake, to try a cupcake from every cupcake bakery I could find in the downtown Fort Worth area.

So far, I've visited:

McKinley's

Red Jett Sweets {R.I.P.}

Cup Cakin Machine

Hummingbird Sweet Shoppe

Stir Crazy Baked Goods

Most recently, I ventured to the Fort Worth Food Park to check out one of the newest dessert food trucks in town: Life is Sweet. I ordered a strawberry cupcake and it was fantastic! The frosting was light yet decadent. The cake was moist and flavorful. It was really perfection. I'm looking forward to going back to try another flavor!

Twitter: @LifeIsSweetFTW

Address: Since Life is Sweet is a mobile bakery, check out their website to for location info.

xo.

2

fort worth weekend, oct. 11-13

Here's the 411 on happenings in Fort Worth this weekend:

Friday, 10/11

Friday on the Green

This free public event promises a fun-filled evening of live music on the Magnolia Green. Bring a blanket, friends, friendly pets, and some money for food/drinks and relax for a while!

Music: Josh Weathers w/ Foxtrot Uniform & Cozy Hawks.
Food & drinks: Chadra Mezza and Grill, Gypsy Scoops, Holy Smokes BBQ, Salsa Limon, Taco Heads, Coors Distributing, and More Puffcorn Please.
Time: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: 1100 Lipscomb Street, Fort Worth 76104

Saturday, 10/12

Pop-Up Market

This outdoor shopping event is set up on the Magnolia Green and features tons of vendors and artists, live music, and food trucks! It's a great way to soak in the cool fall weather.

Time: 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: 1100 Lipscomb Street, Fort Worth 76104

Arts Goggle

Arts Goggle is a free semi-annual event that takes place in the Near Southside district. Join the fun and discover over 200 artists, 50 bands, and a variety of food and drink vendors while strolling down beautiful Magnolia Avenue. Visit the official website for more details.

Time: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: Magnolia Village, Park Place Village, South Main Village {aka Near Southside}

The Trailhead

Visit the new riverfront Trailhead, located just off Hulen, for free classes and activities Saturday morning. From group bike rides to kite-flying, you're sure to find something to enjoy! There are usually food trucks around for breakfast and lunch so you can grab some munchies before or after your class.

Time: Classes range from 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Check out their weekend schedule for specific class/activity times.
Location: Click here for directions to the park.

More Fun

What are you doing this weekend?

xo.

0

backwoods kayaking

I'm not an outdoorsy girl at all, but fall weather makes me crave the great outdoors. The changing leaves and invigorating scent of crisp autumn air might have something to do with this uncharacteristic desire!

While you may not see me camping in a tent, on the ground, next to bugs... one outdoor activity I do love is kayaking! Backwoods Kayak & Canoe, located next to the Tarrant County College Trinity River campus, rents canoes and kayaks on an hourly basis. If you're not ready to take the plunge and invest in expensive equipment, a rental will cost you between $10-25 per hour (and trust me, if you're a beginner, an hour is all you need.)

You can choose from the south-bound route toward Lancaster Avenue or go north and curve to the west along White Settlement. It's a great way to spend some time soaking in the gorgeous North Texas fall weather. Besides enjoying the weather and scenery, kayaking is a great bonding activity for you and your significant other--it takes some patience and team work, but it's an absolute blast!

Details
Where: 480 North Taylor Street, Fort Worth 76102
Hours: Friday-Sunday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Wear: Water resistant attire--water mocassins, board shorts, swim suit, etc. Bring a change of clothes and a towel because you will most likely get wet!

Me kayaking this summer. I just love the view of the Fort Worth skyline!

Have you ever been kayaking (or canoeing)? 

xo.

0

west 7th tuneful tuesdays

Listen up! There's a new live music series going on in West 7th this year and I'm pretty stoked. West 7th's Tuneful Tuesdays brings live musicians to the courtyard next to Hacienda San Miguel every Tuesday from October 8 through December 3, from 6-8 p.m. Music styles will range from jazz to country.

I personally think this is a fantastic idea and a great way to get people outside to revel in the wonderful fall weather we've had in Fort Worth lately, all while enjoying a patio cocktail or some early Christmas shopping at Wrare, Lane-Knight, Flirt, or one of the many other retailers in the area.

On top of that, there will be trivia questions throughout the night with gift card prizes. Score! Check out the music schedule below for more details.

Need recommendations for food and drinks nearby? Check out one of these places for some of my faves:

Hacienda San Miguel has a great happy hour and delicious red tilapia ceviche, chicken enchiladas, and a to-die-for avocado & blue crab salad. Also give their pomegranate margaritas a whirl!

I love the baked goat cheese and straight pie at Fireside Pies. If you're thirsty, try the ginger vodka soda.

Tillman's has fantastic goat cheese truffle tater tots, "mac & chz", and southwest caesar salad. Wash it down with a Sassy Sara!


xo.

0

a naked cake

On Sunday, my family came up for a quick visit to celebrate my sister's birthday. It was a beautiful sunny, breezy day so we decided some al fresco dining was in order. We had lunch at Clearfork Food Park, ordering from The Q {a BBQ food truck}, Salsa Limon, Shortcakes, and Good Karma Kitchen. Afterward, we did a little Fort Worth shopping before heading home for some birthday cake. I harnessed some Pinterest inspiration and baked my sister an adorable {if I do say so myself} "naked" cake topped with bunting. Naked cakes do not have frosting on the sides so each layer is clearly visible. I think it is such a charming and rustic way to make a cake!

To make this cake, all you need is:

• 1 box cake mix (I used Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Vanilla Cake Mix)
• 6" round cake pan {mine is Wilton's brand from Michael's. I only had one, but two would be best}
• Chocolate Sour Cream Frosting, recipe via Real Simple (I recommend cutting the recipe down to 2/3 since you won't be frosting the sides. I did 3/4 and had a lot left over still.)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Prepare cake mix as directed on the box. Spread mix evenly between two 6" round cake pans. Bake 25-30 minutes, checking the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, you're done!
2. Let cakes cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare chocolate frosting according to directions. Warning: You may be tempted to eat frosting by the spoonful right out of the bowl. This frosting is seriously the best one I have ever made.
3. When cakes are cool, slice each in half horizontally so that you have 4 equally sized cakes.
4. Place one cake on a plate and spoon desired amount of frosting on top, about two big spoonfuls. Spread all the way out to the edges--you'll want the frosting to be clearly visible once the other layers are added!
5. Continue with other 3 layers and top with more frosting. Voila--an easy, delicious, and adorable cake.

What did you do this weekend?

xo.

0

day in the district

This past Saturday was Day in the District, an annual event that invites the public out to any of the ten participating museum/cultural venues for free.

I actually had no plans for the weekend or any intention to make them. The weather forecast called for unrelenting rain, so I decided a weekend-long date with my couch, Netflix, and the hubs were in order. Before settling into our lazy afternoon, we ran out to get lunch. It was on our drive home through the Cultural District that we saw people everywhere walking around our soon-to-be new 'hood. I remembered reading about Day in the District and told my husband that must be why everyone was out! To my great surprise, he pulled into the parking lot at the Modern Art Museum and we were lucky enough to score a spot. In the 4 years I've lived in Fort Worth, this was my first time to step foot in a museum (though it's been on my "to do" list for forever.)

If you haven't been to the Modern yet, I highly recommend it! The artwork was so interesting and I marveled at the emotions they were able to capture. It was the perfect rainy day activity. Many of the exhibits prohibited photography, which is unfortunate because there were some really cool ones I would have loved to photograph! Below are just a few I was able to snap during my first visit.

xo.

0

reincarnated

Welcome to Cake for Brunch! 

Though this blog is new, I'm not new to blogging. Feel free to check out my previous blog, Lancaster Laundry, for some Fort Worth reads while this page is under construction. 

xo

0