A Food Appreciation Post

 Let's look back at some of my most memorable meals (that I have saved) from 2023.

I have had some really delicious meals over the last year and put some amazing flavors in my mouth that were so memorable,  I want to relive the experience again and again. 

Cafe 1996 Waffles topped with fruit, syrup and ice cream. The waffle is crispy but paired with the ice cream, makes it a perfect combination as the melting ice cream softens the crunchy waffles just enough without making it soggy.

We discovered Il Padrino restaurant in San Pedro and fell in love. The authentic tasting Italian pasta (al dente) and the rich flavors are incredible. We've already been twice and cannot wait to go back for more.

Not necessarily the best food I've had but the brownies to the left are some of the best brownies I have ever eaten. Store bought from Pricesmart,  their desserts always slap. Plus I loved this set up so I had to share again.

Speaking of set ups, my son's 10th birthday was such a vibe. The multiple food stations were giving luxury.  And this dessert and favor station was definitely worth a second share.

Plus the cake, another Pricesmart purchase,  was pretty good.

These churros however,  were amazing.  Set next to the granizado station, it was a pretty big hit.

Celebrating my birthday this year was super fun and I got three different celebrations, which made me feel extra special.  This cake was incredible and my first Teppenyaki experience was nice and definitely an experience.  Not the best food by any means but worth it for the experience and the dessert.

This cake provided free of charge at our Teppenyaki dinner was super good. Like amazingly good. Mouthwatering.

Alma y Arbol Brunch

Now if we're talking about best ever, this was the absolute best french toast I have ever eaten in my entire life. The satisfying first bite was orgasmic. The different flavors and textures were out of this world. I am counting down the days until I can have this french toast again. 

One of the best drinks I've had and something completely out of my comfort zone, a fruity mojito that gave everything it needed to give. Thanks Santo Pecado. 

Now this one goes without saying but my 7 layer magic bars are heaven. It's almost criminal that I only make them once a year for Thanksgiving. 

And speaking of Thanksgiving,  that is usually the best meal of the year for me and this year did not disappoint.  One of the most incredible dishes I ate for Thanksgiving was the green bean casserole.  Oh wow, that left me almost speechless. Oh and the turkey was pretty good too, finger licking good.

Another shout out to Santo Pecado for not disappointing me once again. My meal was absolutely delicious. 

And let's hear it again for Santo Pecado. Third time and they hit it out the park yet again.  Yum.

A simple and easy, yet extremely delicious holiday tradition are these peanut butter blossom cookies.  I look forward to these every year.

We eat out alot, and we have been trying out new restaurants to expand our culinary experiences. We tried a new gastronomic spot that gave upscale food court vibes in December that was top notch. I tried a korean/Asian place and the Asian beef with rice was phenomenal. 

Traditionally,  I make Christmas Eve dinner for my family and it always slaps. However,  this year we were invited to dine with brother in law and his family and I jumped at the chance to have a night off from the kitchen. The Arroz con pollo and potato salad was really really good, so much so I had to take a few helpings home.

So because I usually cook a big meal on Christmas Eve, we would go out to dinner as a family on Christmas day. But since Covid, I've been cooking Christmas dinner and this year's dinner was so simple but oh so yummy. My first ever attempt at homemade mac and cheese was a huge success. I shredded the cheese myself and made the sauce from scratch.  It was so damn good, leftovers barely made it to day two. 

Dinner with friends is always fun and this simple ice crean sunday was divine.

And I have to add our vow renewal cake to this list of the best things I've ever put in my mouth in 2023. Oh wow this cake was delicious.  We had the top-tier left over and gobbled it up in less than 3 days.

Looking forward to what delectable gastronomic experiences await me in 2024.

A Chill Birthday And Modeling Classes?

 Not much has happened this month while the kids have been on vacation. Since we're trying to budget better, pay down some debt, and work on our finances,  we've been mostly staying home to save money. 

With that in mind, it was a chill birthday at home for hubby this year. 

Being thankful for all we have is so important and reminds of of just how blessed we really are. 

On another note, I took the kids to a modeling appointment, sucked in by an ad I saw on Facebook.  While it was an experience,  it definitely wasn't what we thought it would be. Paying for my kids to take modeling classes just isn't something I would ever really do, but it led to my daughter expressing interest, so we will look into finding an agency for her. 

It's been a slow, calm January and I can't say I'm mad about it.  I love a lazy day, waking up late with no plans, just lounging in bed until I feel the urge to get up.  I do have family in town and that keeps me busy and outside, but not in a fun way so I relish downtime. January will be ending way too soon. 

It's 2024

 Happy New Year blogger friends. There is so much good to look forward to this year and I am optimistic that this year will be a good year. I will speak it into existence and it shall come to pass.

Taking it one day at a time and starting at the beginning, New Years Eve was a vibe. It's always a vibe spending the night with family and friends.