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Countdown to Summer 2018

The time has finally come! The semester is winding down and although the ever dreaded finals week is now upon us, the end is in sight! Summer 2018 is about to begin. I thought it would be appropriate for my favorite elements of summer in an effort to celebrate the season beginning.

Relaxing Outside on Warm Nights

This is truly one of my favorite parts of summer. The days can sometimes be so hot that it is unbearable to stay outside for long amounts of time, but come sundown it is still warm yet comfortable enough to be outside. Whether it be you enjoy your dinner outside on the patio, sip on a refreshing cocktail, stargaze or catch fireflies, not much compares to the joy I get from spending time outside on a warm summer night. 

Fourth of July Celebrations

Personally, the Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. From the color scheme including my two favorite colors to the delicious BBQ spreads and the quality time spent with family and friends, I believe it is the best night of the summer! I also love all the late night firework shows! 

Naps on the Sunny Beach 

After a few hours basking in the sun, there is nothing better than dozing off on the warm sand preferable under an umbrella to prevent burns. Upon waking up you feel rejuvenated and ready to swim some more!

HAPPY SUMMER 2018!

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Etiquette Tips for Dining at a Fancy Resturant

Whether it is an cruical buisness lunch, a first date you are looking to impress or a meet the parents dinner, proper etiquette is always important and impressive. Below are some helpful pointers of how to behave when dining in a fine resturant. 

Know how to place your napkin on your lap properly

Send back food that is cooked improperly

Order the same number of courses as your dining companions 

Place your utensils on your plate when you are finished eating

Sit straight up and do not place your elbows on the table

Cut only one piece of meat or fish at a Time 

Make eye contact and slightly use your index finger to get your waiters’ attention rather than waving or speaking up 

Always butter your bread on your plate, never in midair 

Make arrangemets to pay your check ahead of time, if possible 

Never take your soup bowl off the table to eat 

Never raise a toast to yourself

When drinking, look directly into the  cup or glass rather than straight ahead or at others

Always dress properly and appropriatley; when in men should wear jackets and women shoudl wear modest dresses or skirt/panitsuits 

The first person to sit at the table should be the host of the meal 

Do not reach across the table to sample anyone else’s meal 

Wait for the food to cool down by itself; do not blow on it 

Treat servers with respect and friendliness

                                                  Enjoy Your Meal!

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Biggest Tourist Hotspots of 2018

Looking to hop on the travel bandwagon? Below are a few of the more desirable and most popular destinations in 2018. Be sure to e ready for the crowds!

Rome, Italy

Between being able to overdose on pasta, pizza, and prosecco and visit some of the most ancient and famous attractions in the world, who wouldn’t want to visit Rome? Rome has seen almost a 20% increase in searches this past year. To keep prices lower, February is the most affordable time to travel. 

Paris, France

Paris is a city filled with high fashion, unique food, and beautiful art. The City of Love has seen 18% percent increase in searches over the past year. The most affordable time to visit Paris would be in January while the flights and hotels are the cheapest yet it is not the most ideal time to visit the city. 

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is March would be a dream. With this not only being the cheapest time to visit the Spanish city, it is also the most affordable and desirable due to the cool yet comfortable climate that would be ideal for touring. With over 25% increase in searches, you will certainly not be alone!

Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether it is viewing a show, gambling in the ornate casinos or basking in the desert sun, Las Vegas has attractions for all. While it has always been a popular destination, Sin City has seen almost a 30% increase in searches in the past few months. Book your trip for late August to early September to save on flights and have smaller crowds. 

Maui, Hawaii

This Hawaiian island is the most popular tourist destination of 2018. With over a 50% increase in searches, Maui is definitely the place to be! The white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and blue skies are alluring. 

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Feed Your Soull

Feed Your Soull is a popular comfort food Instagram run by a Loyola student named Giselle Alzate. I had the pleasure of living with Giselle for two years and was constantly showered with goodies sent from places such as Baked by Melissa Cupcakes, Breads Bakery, Blue Apron and many other notable food sources from the New York City area and beyond. 

With over 350,000 followers on Instagram and a developing website, Giselle entices her followers with photos of tempting foods, witty captions and an explanation as to where to obtain the food. Her distinct silver ring and Feed Your Soull logo are featured in all pictures she has taken herself, others are sourced from other popular food blogs and Instagrams. 

Follow the Instagram page feedyoursoull!!!!

More information can be found at http://feedyoursoull.com

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7 Signs You’re in a Good Resturant

1. Items on the Menu are in Season

Having season items on a menu demonstrates a chef’s creativity and the fact that the food you are being served is fresh.  You should not be eating the same foods in the winter that you do in the spring. Never order the Caprese Salad or Asparagus Tarte in the middle of winter!

2. A Server Comes to Your Table Quickly 

Attentive and friendly staff can really enhance or degrade your dining experience. Being greeted in a timely fashion with a friendly face is sure to start your meal off on a good note. 

3. The Bathroom is Clean

This is not only a testament to the restaurants overall cleanliness but also their attention to detail. While some dives and diners do not boast the cleanest bathrooms but delicious grub if you are enjoying a special meal at a nice restaurant a clean bathroom is surely a good sign. 

4. The Food All Comes Out at the Same Time

Nothing is more annoying than watching the steam disappear on your once piping hot pasta dish because not all of your group has received their means and you feel rude eating. A good restaurant will never put you in this position. The meal will be served at the same time so that as a group you can indulge in your first delicious bite. 

5.They are Willing to Make Accommodations

Within reason, restaurants should be willing to make accommodations for your meal. While most acclaimed Chefs are annoyed with customers asking to swap sauces or remove seafood from a dish, certain accommodations should definitely be made. If a client is vegan, vegetarian, gluten, dairy or nut free a resultant should willingly make reasonable accommodations for them. 

6.You Can Hear the Other People at Your Table

Sound design is an important and difficult aspect to consider when designing the layout of a restaurant. You should be able to clearly hear everyone at your table, especially yourself. 

7.Impressive Little Details Matter

Whether it be how you a greeted upon entering, offering wraps for outdoor seating on a colder evening, giving guests a complimentary after dinner drink or dessert or sending them home with a treat, small details matter and will be remembered. 

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Best Date Night Activities in Baltimore

Looking to impress your special sweetheart? Below are some suggestions for romantic, thoughtful and relatively inexpensive date ideas for Baltimore couples!

Cruise through the Inner Harbor

A sunset cruise through the Chesapeake Bay screams romance! Relatively priced cruises can be booked through many agencies downtown and can be done both privately or with a small group. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from a new perspective!

Picnic on Federal Hill

Pack some of your dates favorite foods and drinks in your basket and you are set for a lovely afternoon! Pick a quiet spot on the hill to have sweeping views of the Inner Harbor with your sweetheart. Don’t forget a blanket!

Visit the Maryland Zoo

While this may not seem like the best date idea, an outdoorsy, adventurous couple would love to spend the afternoon at the Maryland Zoo conveniently located in Baltimore. Observe the animals, take a ride on the carousel and end your afternoon with some delicious, carnival-like fare! 

Resturant Hopping in Hamden 

Begin your evening taste testing food from around the world at R House. Take a stroll to the main Avenue in Hamden to grab a sweet after dinner treat at the Charmery. Whether it be their ice cream or hot chocolate you cannot go wrong!End your evening by grabbing drinks at one of the many local, lively bars!

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Winter Blues? Comfort Food Can Cure That!

Long winter days make us yearn for cozy meals that will make our hearts and stomachs happy. Whether it be hearty chili, creamy soup or cheesy chicken these recipes will be sure to ease the pain of winter and also be delicious!

Hearty Winter-Vegetable Soup This soup is warm and filling but still packed with colorful, healthful vegetables that will help ward off winter colds.

How To Make It:

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook leeks, celery, carrots, garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon salt, stirring occasionally, until leeks are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add stock and water, and bring to a boil.

Add squash and potatoes. Return to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in escarole and chickpeas, and return to a boil. Stir in lemon juice and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.

Chili Con Carne Chili con carne, a Texan creation, is a traditional one-dish dinner. This recipe uses beer, which gives this classic winter dish an exciting new flavor. Serving this dinner is always a blast because everyone can go crazy with their own customizable toppings.

How To Make It:

Toast chiles in a skillet over medium heat, turning often, until fragrant and puffed up, 2 minutes. Cut in half; remove cores. Reserve seeds. Transfer chiles to a bowl; cover with boiling water. Set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork; cook until browned, 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. Working in batches, cook beef until browned, 3 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed and transferring browned meat to the plate.

Meanwhile, put chiles and 1/2 cup soaking liquid into a blender; puree. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add onion and garlic, and cook, stirring often, until softened, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in cumin, oregano, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons reserved chile seeds (more for heat, if desired). Cook 1 minute. Add chile puree. Raise heat to medium-high; cook, stirring, 2 minutes.

Return meat to pot. Add 2 teaspoons salt, the tomatoes, and beer. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-high. Simmer, stirring occasionally, 1 1/4 hours. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender and sauce is thick, about 30 minutes more. Discard bay leaf. Stir in vinegar. Serve chili with avocado halves, scallions, tortilla chips, and grated cheese.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese:

This favorite is a comforting classic that embodies the creamy, chewy, warm, goodness.Sharp white cheddar, grated Gruyere, and Percorino Romano cheeses give the sauce its heavenly richness and complexity.

How To Make It:

Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Butter a 3-quart casserole dish; set aside. Place bread pieces in a medium bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Pour butter into the bowl with bread, and toss. Set the breadcrumbs aside. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, heat milk. Melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter in a high-sided skillet over medium heat. When butter bubbles, add flour. Cook, stirring, 1 minute.

2. Slowly pour hot milk into flour-butter mixture while whisking. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture bubbles and becomes thick.

3. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in salt, nutmeg, black pepper, cayenne pepper, 3 cups cheddar, and 1 1/2 cups Gruyere or 1 cup pecorino Romano. Set cheese sauce aside.

4. Fill a large saucepan with water. Bring to a boil. Add macaroni; cook 2 to 3 fewer minutes than manufacturer's directions, until outside of pasta is cooked and inside is underdone. (Different brands of macaroni cook at different rates; be sure to read the instructions.) Transfer the macaroni to a colander, rinse under cold running water, and drain well. Stir macaroni into the reserved cheese sauce.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 1/2 cups cheddar and 1/2 cup Gruyere or 1/4 cup pecorino Romano; scatter breadcrumbs over the top. Bake until browned on top, about 30 minutes. Transfer dish to a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes; serve.

Chicken Potpie with Puff Pastry

Cream and white wine enrich the sauce for these hearty, root-vegetable-packed chicken potpies. You can conveniently use frozen puff pastry to form the flaky top crust.

How To Make It:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cook shallot in oil in a large pot over medium heat until soft, about 4 minutes. Add carrot, parsnip, and potato. Cook until soft, about 10 minutes. Add wine; simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Add stock; bring to a boil. Add chicken and thyme. Cook for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add cornstarch mixture and cream. Bring to a simmer; cook until thick, about 5 minutes.

 Divide mixture among four 6-ounce ramekins; top with pastry. Brush with egg. Cut a hole into each to vent. Bake on a baking sheet until golden, 12 to 14 minutes.

Enjoy!

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Best Island Escapes from the Cold Winter

Feel like the winter is dragging on forever and you can no longer take dark snowy days? An island escape is calling your name! Below are recommendations for the best island to escape to in an effort to cure your winter blues. 

For a Family Affair:

The large and thrilling resort of Atlantis located in Nassau, Bahamas is the ultimate family vacation spot. Between the pools, slides, rides, casinos, water sports, bars and restaurants there is truly something for every family member! Ranging from modestly priced to expensive, there are many rooming selections so one will be sure to fit your budget. This quick flight is a one-stop destination for family fun!

For a Couples Retreat:

The over-the-top, romantic resort of Cap Jalluca located on the gorgeous island of  Anguilla is perfect for a relaxing couples getaway. The white sand beaches are captivating and relaxing. Enjoy a quiet getaway with your sweetheart on this breathtaking island. 

For a Girls Trip:

An all-inclusive resort located on the tropical island of Jamacia is the perfect spot for a girls trip. Staying at an all-inclusive resort will create less hassle for the group and more time to enjoy!Gather your best gals, some suntan lotions and bikinis and your off!

For A Big Group: 

A Carribean cruise is the perfect options for a big group. Whether it be extended family, community members or old college friends a cruise is the perfect solutaion for a big group. It will allow the group to decide how much freedom they would like from eachother all while still being in a close proximity. Enjoy seeing multiple islands from the comfort of the boat or take an excursion trip to them!

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Best Wine and Cheese Pairings

While wine and cheese is always a delicious combination, some taste better together. Below are recommendations for pairings that will make your taste buds happy. Pair with your favorite fruits and bread or crackers to make a tasty platter!

1.Brie and Chardonnay

2. Gouda and Merlot

3.Sharp White Cheddar and Cabernet Sauvignon 

4. Parmesan and Chianti 

5.Brie and Reisling

6.Mozzarella and Sauvignon Blanc

7. Ricotta and Pinot Grigio 

8.Asiago and Prosecco

9.Havarti and Champagne 

10. Provolone and Rose 

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How to Eat Like a Local in New York City

1. Every Meal Does Not Have to Break the Bank!

New Yorkers know that eating out doesn’t have to break the bank which is one reason why neighborhoods big on cheap eats, like the East Village and Chinatown, are so popular. Whether it be getting the famous $1 pizza slice or grabbing a dirty water dog, you do not have to break your budget every time you are hungry.

2. Leave Manhattan Island

While Manhattan is what comes to mind when most think of the Big Apple, do not forget to show the four other boroughs some love! Head to Brooklyn Heights for an awesome view and some trendy bites or Williamsburg for Smorgasoard. Also, be sure to visit Arthur Avenue in the Bronx and then spend the afternoon at the Bronx Zoo.

3. Splurge 

While it is not necessary to eat expensive meals every day, budget it one splurge meal into your trip. Select one of New York’s finest restaurants such as Daniel, Per Se, Armani, Le Bernardin or Eleven Madison Park. Be sure to make reservations well in advance and dress to impress!

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One Pot Wonders; Quick Ways to Make your Weeknights Delicious

Some nights its tough to bring yourself whip up a meal but you’re hungry and craving something delicious. Below are a few recipes that require few ingredients and only ONE pot or pan!!!

Pan-Roasted Salmon-and-Bread Salad This is a terrific all-in-one meal and an inventive use for salmon: Grace Parisi nestles the fillets in crunchy hunks of ciabatta bread tossed with tomatoes, capers and superthin slices of lemon, then bakes the dish until the salmon is just cooked.

How to Make It:

Step 1     Preheat the oven to 450°. In a large roasting pan, toss the ciabatta chunks with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Roast for about 5 minutes, until the bread is lightly toasted.

Step 2     In a large bowl, toss the tomato halves with the garlic, capers, lemon, parsley, crushed red pepper and 2 tablespoons of the olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Stir the tomatoes into the toasted bread. Roast for 10 to 12 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and break down.

Step 3     Meanwhile, in the same bowl, toss the salmon with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Nestle the salmon into the bread and tomatoes, spooning some of the tomatoes on top. Roast for about 6 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through. Serve right away.

Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde There are many variations on pozole, a traditional hominy-based Mexican stew closely associated with the Pacific-coast state of Guerrero. Anya von Bremzen’s version, a green pozole, derives much of its flavor from tangy ingredients like tomatillos, cilantro and green chiles.

How to Make It:

Step 1    

In a large, enameled cast-iron casserole, bring the chicken stock and water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts, skin side down, cover and simmer over very low heat until they're tender and cooked through, about 25 minutes. Transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and shred the meat; discard the bones and skin. Skim any fat from the cooking liquid and reserve.

Step 2     In a blender, combine the halved tomatillos with the quartered onion, poblanos and jalapeños, smashed garlic, chopped cilantro and oregano. Pulse until coarsely chopped, scraping down the side. With the machine on, add 1 cup of the cooking liquid and puree until smooth. Season the tomatillo puree with salt and pepper.

Step 3     In a large deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil until shimmering. Add the tomatillo puree and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce turns a deep green, about 12 minutes.

Step 4     Pour the green sauce into the cooking liquid in the casserole. Add the hominy and bring to a simmer over moderate heat. Add the shredded chicken to the stew, season with salt and pepper and cook just until heated through. Serve the pozole in deep bowls, passing the lettuce, radishes, onion, avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips and lime wedges at the table.

Turkey and Pinto Bean Chili 

This easy to make chili is certainly a crowd favorite. Whether it be kids or adults everyone will be going back for a second serving!

How to Make It:

Step 1     In a large Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil until shimmering. Add half of the turkey and cook over high heat, undisturbed, until browned on the bottom, about 3 minutes. Stir the turkey and cook until no pink remains, about 2 minutes longer. Transfer the cooked turkey to a bowl and repeat with 1 more tablespoon of oil and the remaining turkey.

Step 2     Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and the onion to the pot. Cook over moderate heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, chile powder, cumin, oregano and chipotle powder and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Return the turkey to the pot. Stir in the carrot, bell pepper, tomato puree, beans and lager and bring to a boil. Stir in the stock and vinegar, cover and simmer over low heat for 45 minutes. Add the thyme, season with salt and pepper and serve, garnished with chives.

Enjoy your easy to make dinners!

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The Most Unhealthy “Healthy” Foods

Prepared Salads

While an individual may think they are making a lighter, healthier choice, they can often be misled by selecting the prepared salad. Most restaurants pile on carbs, fats, and sodium to your so-called healthy meal. Drenched in heavy dressing and topped with croutons or dried fruits and oils your meal calorie count can skyrocket way past what you were expecting. For a more healthy and reasonable alternative try making the salad yourself. Add toppings such as lean meats, healthy fats, and fresh fruits along with a homemade vinaigrette to have both a healthy and delicious salad! 

Protein or Energy Bars

There packaging is quite appealing, right? Between the promotion as a pre-workout snack or meal replacement one can easily be tricked into chowing down on one of these bars. Typically they are packed with sugars, high fructose corn syrup and saturated fat making them a rather unhealthy choice. Instead, try making your own health bars or trail mix! 

Instant Oatmeal

While oatmeal is a great source of whole grain goodness, often times instant oatmeal is loaded with sugars and carbs that make it so delicious. Opt for a high fiber, low carb alternative and add fruit or honey to make it extra delicious! 

Sports Drinks

Unless you’ve just finished a very rigorous workout, you are probably going to avoid sports drinks. While they are packed with healthy electrolytes they are also packed with sodium, calories, and sugar. If you have only completed a light workout or are just tempted by the alluring packaging, it is best to put the sports drink down. Avoid unnecessary additives and drink water or a lower- calories beverage. 

Smoothies 

While smoothies can be quite nutritional and healthy, often times they are packed with sugary fattening substances such as added sugars, ice cream or peanut butter. Many chains and restaurants make smoothies with a high of a calories count as a meal. Instead of consuming a premade smoothie, try making one at home! It can be fun and delicious and of course, you are in control of what enters your body!

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How to Fly and Be Fly

The day you have been counting down to is finally here, it’s vacation time! But before you can truly relax you must embark on the ever dreaded journey to your destination. This usually involves a painful combination of planes, trains, and cars with a bit of motion sickness and headaches mixed in. Below are tips on how to conquer your trip and look good while doing it!

1. Be Stylish Yet Comfortable                                                                                 It is no secret everyone wants to be comfortable while traveling but you don’t have to knock style out of the picture either. You can easily transform a cozy outfit into something that will turn heads. Simply add a bold scarf, big hat or chunky necklace to your look to add some spunk!

2. Choose Your Shoes Wisley!!!                                                                                  Shoe choice can truly make or break your travel day! Remeber comdfort is key when it comes to your footwear choice! Opt for your favortite sneakers or your best broken in ballet flats. Just in case you are late to a flight or have to run to nearly closing train doors you want to be sure you will be able to do so! 

3. Pack Snacks!                                                                                             Whether it be between flights during layovers or in a long car ride snacks are always a crowd pleaser. Make sure to bring along easily packable, non- perishable foods. Some good travel snack include trail mix, nuts, chips fruits and granola or proptein bars. 

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From Parkas to Pollen: How to Beat your Springtime Allergies

Spring has finally sprung! After weeks of suffering in the cold winter months, the temperature has finally risen above freezing temperatures! So, its time to pack away your parkas and prepare for pollen. While most enjoy the springtime because it means they are finally free of snow and can look forward to warmer weather activities it is a season that some dread. Below are some helpful tips on how to prepare for and avoid seasonal allergies. 

--Monitor pollen counts and mold levels in your area. Keep windows closed and minimize your outdoor exposure on high count days.

--Consider a no-shoes-inside policy during peak time. That will limit the amount of pollen tracked inside.

--Shower after prolonged outdoor exposure on high-count days.

--Avoid outdoor activity on windy days, that’s prime seasonal allergy time.  A few other spring-related allergens can include: chlorine in pools, smoke from campfires and overusing your humidifier (dust mites LOVE humidity). Some allergies can be treated with over-the-counter medication but more severe reactions do require a visit to your primary care physician. 

--Remeber to take your allergy medication. It can be over the counter or prescribed if your physician feels that is necessary. Taking your medication at the same time each day will increase its effectiveness. 

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My Travel Buckelist

1.Dubai, Arab Emirates

Created from just desert land starting about 20 years ago, the entire city has a startup mentally. By mixing conservative middle eastern values with modern business initiatives and design the city is booming with opportunity and adventure. I would most like to visit the Palm Islands which are manmade islands off the coast of the city. Their construction began in 2001 and only one of the three islands is completed currently. 

2. Koh Tao, Thailand 

Whether it be scuba diving, surfing or rock climbing, Koh Tao is for the more restless travelers. While some areas are action-packed, there are quieter and less developed areas of the island for those seeking days of relaxation. It has always been a dream of mine to receive a scuba certification and I would love to do so off one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands. 

3. Scotland 

Nestled into the picturesque green scenery, placed at the highest point of the city, is the Edinburgh Castle which is the first cite I would like to see in Scotland. The city is divided between “old” and “new” towns. Between the live artistic performances and the numerous museums and galleries, the city is bursting with culture. 

4.Capetown, South Africa 

Whether you visit Boulder Beach, which is home to over 3,000 penguins who roam around while you swim or the vibrant neighborhood of Bo Kapp it sounds like Cape Town has it all. Boomin with culture and excitement its the perfect place for a big group. I would love to visit with a big group of friends and visit sites such as the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Long Street. 

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How to Travel with Pets

Of course, your trip would not be complete without your furry friend! Though bringing along your pet could pose some difficulties. Below are some tips to make the trip easy and pleasant for both you and your pet!

To Do’s Before the Trip:

-Consult with your pet's veterinarian; be sure they are fit to travel.

-Be sure to book with pet-friendly airlines and hotels. Also, look into the airlines'

history with pet services. Have pets been lost or injured during the trip?

-Prepare the kennel you will place your pet in. Be sure that he or she will be able to stand up and fully turn around in all directions in the crate. Also, if necessary, place the required stickers on the crate.

-Attach ID tags to your pet that are clear and easy to understand.

To Do’s the Day of the Trip:

-Exercise with your pet before boarding your fight or beginning your drive. A walk or some play time will likely boost your pet's mood and tire them out a bit before you begin your journey!

-Keep a familiar blanket or toy with your pet to make it feel more comfortable and relaxed during the trip.

Bon Voyage!

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Home for the Holiday’s

It’s that time of year again... the most wonderful time of the year! Finals are FINALLY over and you are headed home to your beloved family and friends and not to mention all the good food and good times ahead in the next few weeks.

One of my favorite holiday traditions include the making of the Italian delicacy Struffoli with my Mom, Nonna, and Aunts for Christmas. Struffoli originated in the Naples area of Italy, which was influenced by the Greeks who once controlled Naples. The name “struffoli” comes from the Greek “strongulos” which means “round in shape”. Traditionally, the dough is made on a table top by putting the flour and eggs on the table and mixing with the hands. It is a quite complicated and delicate task but recipes and instructions have been passed down for generations from our Italian ancestors and ensure we preserve this scrumptious Christmas tradition for years to come! Buono Natale!