Comicon 2011

While working in the hotel industry can be very challenging, it definitely has it's perks. Last week, Chris and I got free passes for Comicon. Neither of us had ever been and it originated here in San Diego, so this was a cool opportunity for us. 

2 whole days at Comicon? A little too much for me to handle, but I was able to loan these out so they got a fair amount of use.

We got plenty of cheesy photos.

Saw tons of cartoon characters (Pikachu was the only one I recognized right away)

And of course, we saw one crazy costume after another. Fun to see, but I could never be that dedicated.

The free swag with the comic books I bought for my brother. Not pictured: at least 10 action movie posters. I plan on mailing him all this fun stuff one piece at a time leading up to his birthday. Luckily, he doesn't read this blog, so he'll have no clue what's going on.

Drink this, not that!

Anyone who knows me, knows I have a soda problem. Not just any soda problem, a Dr. Pepper problem. When I've had a rough day, instead of coming home and cracking open a beer, I snap open that can of Dr. Pepper. There's something about the sweet, slightly tangy-ness of it that I haven't been able to find in another type of beverage. Until now. With all the excess mint in my garden, I've been trying to use it up. I came across this recipe and now I'm totally hooked!

3 slices of cucumber

3-4 mint leaves (Depending on my mood, I use more)

1 tsp fresh lime juice

6 oz club soda

Ice

Optional: 1/2 tsp sugar (you can use as much, or little as you like)

Mix and squash all the ingredients, minus the club soda. Add the club soda, and voila!

This is such a perfect drink for a warm summer evening. It's a perfect mix of light and refreshing! Hopefully I'll be drinking more of these, and less sugar-loaded soda.

Viva Las Vegas

I finally compiled some scenes from my weekend in Vegas. I was bummed I forgot my camera, but a few of the girls did a fantastic job capturing some good shots for all of us. 

Getting the party started.

The Thursday night gals.

Ashley and I at the Venetian.

Grabbing some lunch.

Relaxing pool day at the Palazzo. I definitely needed the down time! How do these people party all day AND night?

French toast from Holly's birthday brunch at Bouchon. Totally amazing!

All the girls before seeing Zumanity. 

Um... Hello Zumanity guy! He was incredible, and it was so fun to recognize him when he came on stage. Has anyone else seen the show? 

Back from Las Vegas!

I had an amazing time in Vegas, celebrating Holly's bachelorette/birthday party. Something about a weekend away always makes me happy to be home though. This weekend was full of drinks, laughs, great food and wonderful company. 

Congratulations Holly, I'm so excited for you! Thank you for sharing your special weekend with me!
More photos to come.

Been baking

In preparation to leave for the weekend (Vegas whoo-hoo!) I made some brownies. I love travel snacks and if I don't pack some goodies, I end up shopping for random food in the airport. Plus I have a feeling with the Giants in town, there will be guys around the house after the games. Here's the recipe:

1 cup (8oz) salted butter

2 1/4 cups sugar

1 1/4 cocoa powder

Pinch of salt

1 tsp baking powder

1 tbsp vanilla

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups flour

Melt the butter over low/medium heat. Remove from heat and add sugar. Reheat mixture until it has a slick shiny look to it.

Move mixture into a mixing bowl. Stir in the cocoa, salt, baking powder and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, beating until smooth, then add flour. 

Bake at 350 in a lightly greased 9x13 pan.

Well, what did you expect? I told you the Giants are in town! Have a great weekend everyone!