Brunch Diaries: Trafford

My sister was in town visiting this weekend, which was the perfect excuse for us to try a new place for brunch on Sunday. Trafford is a bright, cheery spot in the East Bay overlooking the water. I have been for dinner several times before, but this was the first time I tried their brunch. The wide open space paired with the sunshine pouring in (not to mention the mimosas) made for a great afternoon with my sister and M.

Menu displayed on a clipboard.

Ceiling lights + canoe.

Instagramming, of course!

Cup of sugar.

Iced coffee.

Brunch bubbles.

Lobster benedict special.

Traditional benedict.

I'm in love with their reclaimed wood tabletops. 

Wild blueberry hotcake.

Everything was so delicious and since they've just recently started serving brunch, we practically had the upstairs to ourselves! I definitely recommend checking Trafford out and I can't wait to come back and eat outside on the deck when it finally gets warmer. Where's your favorite place to enjoy brunch?

Adventures in Northern Michigan-Part Two

I think one of the best parts of being in Michigan was the relaxed pace of just about everything. The hardest decision of the day was usually where to go out to dinner that night or what kind of ice cream to order for dessert. I had a lot of fun just being around my sisters; I forgot how much their crazy antics make me laugh. It was so nice to have long, drawn out dinners with lots of wine and storytelling. I think we were 'that table' on more than one occasion! 

Dining alfresco was such a treat with the cooler temps.

A glass of wine enjoyed on the porch with the fam at Coho Cafe.

I played manicurist to my sisters during our trip.

Seared scallops with mango salsa.

Mussels simply steamed in white wine, lemon, and tons of garlic.

Sesame seared tuna-one of my favorite meals!

A rainy day was spent shopping and checking out a local brewery in Traverse City.

Vintage cherry labels at the heritage museum.

A maze of galleries and shops housed in a former insane asylum in Traverse City.

Nautical wrapping paper.

Breathtaking views from Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Fruity sangria on sushi night at Fusion.

The cutest little post office that could've fit inside my living room.

Wait, It's May Already?

Life has been busy lately! I had so much fun on my little weekend solo jaunt to New York City last weekend. I survived a great barre class at Exhale Spa, did tons of walking around the city and through Central Park, and met up with a friend who recently moved from Chicago. Jessica's bridal shower was a great celebration and I loved being able to hang with her close girlfriends before the wedding next month (already!). The group ventured out to the Standard's biergarten on Saturday afternoon, where I could have continued people watching for daaaays. I was super diligent about packing my camera, but somehow forgot to put the battery back in it before heading out, so I was only able to snap some iPhone photos. Oops! I need to get better at remembering to actually use my real camera. 

This past weekend was spent enjoying a little Cinco de Mayo action, grilling on the porch (steak fajitas), and finally meeting up with Lauren (for mani/pedis + cocktails), who was in town from DC. I only wish the weather was warmer. I'm ready for more spring-like temps and less rain! 

What about you! How was your weekend?

favorite new polish combo: Chanel's nouvelle vague + gradient glitter

remnants from Saturday's homemade margaritas using this recipe (which was so good!)

late takeout sushi lunch on Friday (sashimi is my fav!)

pretty packaging + tape from Anthropologie

minty fresh watch and neon bracelets for warmer weather

Easter Treats + San Diego Encore

Hope you're all having a fabulous Easter! I indulged in too many coconut M&M's and a mimosa over brunch and have spent the rest of the day reading, relaxing, and watching the Masters. I feel so accomplished after giving up sweets and alcohol for forty whole days. To be honest, I missed the sweets much more than the drinking! It's nice to be able to have a little sweet bite of chocolate or candy after dinner. I also finished uploading the rest of my pictures from California (a little behind on that, oops!). It's hard to believe the trip was almost two months ago! Most of these are from an afternoon spent in La Jolla and a few of the church at the University of San Diego.


late lunch at Paradise Point


fresh-squeezed margarita


pina colada


perfect sunset view


seared ahi salad


Pacific Beach


La Jolla Cove


twisted trunk


pretty flowers


cafe entrance


at a local brewery


souvenir penny from the zoo!


inside the church


perfect day for a wedding

A Few of My Favorite Things

Stocking the fridge for Thursday's festivities!

Popcorn and Pinot

Finally, the work week is over. I spent the evening celebrating that fact with friends at a local dive bar and it was just what I needed to welcome the weekend. The popcorn didn't hurt, either.
Happy Friday!

I Know How Alexander Feels

You know, from the book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Good thing the neighborhood pizza joint knows how to make up for it. Our waitress arrived at the table with two pitchers full of ice to keep the drinks cold (and flowing)! I love having a go-to local spot to enjoy dinner and a glass of wine after an exceptionally long and trying day.

Market Fresh Dining

Today was spent enjoying specialty cocktails, craft beers, and local eats with friends at Armsby Abbey, an amazing and unique restaurant in Worcester. I enjoyed the ripest and most delicious heirloom tomato salad with fresh basil, baguette croutons, and parmesan. I love places that really take advantage of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Crafty Cocktails

Tonight was spent out at a fun, local dive in Providence called the Red Fez. They're in the process of renovating and the downstairs restaurant has a cozy cabin feel to it. I had a delicious watermelon and feta salad with peppery arugula which paired well with their crisp vino verde. They always surprise me with their inventive dishes and individually crafted cocktails. I can't wait to go back and try more of the menu!