Transparent life encounters that will encourage and inspire you to be yourself, find joy in all things and serve! Followed by my passion for Jesus, food, travel and everything in between.
I Don’t Belong in a Corner
Don’t Ever Count Me Out! EVER! I recently had a horrible experience at a restaurant. I won’t disclose where I went, nor do I intend to bash their establishment. More importantly, I want to talk about a few things I learned from the experience: my thoughts, reactions, and key take-aways.
Before I do that, let me spill a few of the deets! Buckle up.
My sister and I had a day to ourselves, and I wanted to take her to this particular restaurant I raved about all the time! We visited on a Saturday afternoon, and it was fairly empty. I requested a table for 2, and it all went downhill from there. Not only were we not greeted prior to my request, but we were put all the way in the back of the restaurant while the other patrons were in the front. I asked if we could move to a booth. Only to be advised that the restaurant prefers to keep the open seating for reservations only.
I proceeded to book a reservations on Open Table, got us a seat at the booth, andthe rest was history. Or so I thought. Our server was not pleasant at all. It was evident they clearly did not want to serve us. I ended up speaking to the manager about my experience and walking out of the restaurant vowing to never step foot there AGAIN. Before you judge me, I understand that maybe the greeter and server were just having a rough day. Maybe the last table didn’t tip them well, or heck, they want to enjoy a meal and rather not work on Saturday! But, while I could make up a thousand of excuses, I learned a valuable lesson in this situation.
1. First impression is EVERYTHING;
2. Although you may be mistreated, you still show kindness and respect to those who have offended you;
3. Pass the test set before you;
4. Don’t let anyone EVER put you a the corner.
I’m typically a person that will hold my tongue at restaurants because I know it’s a tough business. However, something sparked in me that day, and I refused to be put in the corner. From this point on, I choose to speak my mind in love and not be put in anyone’s corner. I will stand tall like a fresh, sweet pineapple! I know guac is extra, but so am I. “Extra, EXTRA! read all about it!”This post was brought to you by my horrible experience, but a lesson well learned. I didn’t even get to drink my margarita. Dern! Have you had a bad dining experience? Let’s talk about it.
Life Update 2019
Hey friends! I wanted to catch you up on a few things that have occurred since the last couple of times you’ve perused my webpage. Back in October of 2018, I shared with you all that I lost my job. Well. I’m happy to say that I now have a new job that I recently started in January. Are y’all happy for me? It’s crazy to say this, but being off for 6 months was the BEST! Weird, but oh so true. Well.. Let me rephrase that. At first it was a month full of me being depressed, but then something happened and
Hutchins BBQ is Heading to New York City
Hutchins BBQ is headed to New York City to showcase their menu at the James Beard House and before they left, I was able to enjoy a sneak peek of what they would offer at the Kick-Off dinner August 30th.
BottleRock- Napa
Raise your hand if you love traveling! I find so much joy in seeing the world, and although I generally tend to take one big trip a year, I’ve decided that once a year is just not enough. For that reason, my husband and I decided to travel to California. I just knew this trip was going to be epic!
Via Instagram, one of my favorite artist announced he would be on stage at Bottlerock! Since I follow him wherever he goes, I knew I had to be here! My friend introduced me to Allen Stone back in 2012, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Now my husband loves him! He is the truth y’all! This man can SANG! Yes, I said SANG, but you might be wondering, as I did, what the heck is BottleRock?
My Top 5 Travel Essentials
Disclaimer: “I received the items listed below (unless otherwise noted) for the purpose of this review. All opinions are mine and doesn’t reflect the opinion of any organization I might be affiliated with. The information present is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only”.
Hey Friends!
I’ve been on vacation for the past week and I had the best time! I absolutely love traveling! I also enjoy experiencing new things, eating good food and just relaxing. Vacation always give me an opportunity to clear my mind, gain clarity in all areas of my life and down time to enjoy myself and my husband.
I absolutely adore California, so we headed to San Francisco and then to Napa to enjoy all things nature, beaches and of course wine. head to my instagram highlights entitled “Partners” and “Bottle Rock” to see all things Cali.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar Spring Menu is here!
Disclaimer: My meal was complimentary of Lazy Dog Restaurant, however, all views and opinions are my own.
Spring is here and not only am I uber excited to wear cute tank tops and sundresses. Better yet, I’m thrilled about patio dining at amazing restaurants in those tanks and dresses! Lazy Dog was a great place to begin.
My very first time walking in the doors of Lazy Dog, definitely won’t be my last. I was thoroughly impressed that Lazy Dog is a scratch kitchen and bar where everything is made with love. General Manager, Nick Huckabe, echoed that he is extremely proud of the food produced here and I’d have to agree with him. I must also mention how wonderful the hospitality was from the moment I stepped in and well beyond my departure (I’m sure)! Kudos Lazy Dog!
3 Things You Can Do To Kickstart Your Health
Disclaimer: My Day Drinker Cleanse was complimentary of The Juice Bar Dallas, however, all views and opinions are my own.
As you know, I love food! I’ve even deemed myself a certified foodie as a kid. If you take a look at my Instagram, you might drool or have serious FOMO because I’m seen living my best life with all other foodie friends multiple times a week. I also know taking care of my health is important. While I enjoy eating, I also know it’s always great to reset your body. After all, health is wealth.
We’re only 104 days into 2018. How many of you are still rocking those fitness goals? I know, don’t worry, I’ve slacked since January 1st as well. If you’re still meeting your new year’s resolution goals, that’s awesome. However, if you’re like me and have had too many “treat yourself” days, this post is for you! I want to give you some very practical tips which I believe anyone can do to restart their health. I wouldn’t be telling you these things if I hadn’t started doing them myself. So here we go..!
Top 3 things I learned on We Ate Well Food Tours
Tricia Scruggs- Owner of We Ate Well Pictured is the Local Goat & Fig wood- fired pizza
I had the opportunity to get a sneak peek of We Ate Well Food Tours before it’s launch March 23rd. Since then, I’ve already gone on another tour! We Ate Well McKinney Food Tours is ready to welcome everyone who likes to taste and see McKinney in a unique way.
I couldn’t wait to go back after the first tour! Hopefully, you plan on grabbing a few tickets so you can experience it for yourself!
5 Reasons you should plan on attending Chef x Fest Next year!
I was fortunate enough to win (2) free tickets to Chef x fest 2018 in Houston, TX. Of course, I was beyond thrilled! It was also perfect timing since I was already heading to the big H to spend well deserved time with my family and friends.
Ready or not, Houston here I come!
For those who don’t know, I was born in Houston! My heart holds a special place for my second home. Both my mom and dad’s family live there too, so as you can imagine, I’ve hit I-45 South numerous times throughout my life!