Motivational Mondays

Opportunities are usually disguised as hard work, so most people don't recognize them. 

- Ann Landers

Fat Tuesday

Fat Tuesday is here! Aaaaand I'm not in New Orleans. :( 

But, as promised, I made a King Cake to share with all of my classmates. I was astonished to find out how many of them had no idea what a King Cake was. The idea of the plastic baby inside completely freaked them out, as well, which when I think about it, is completely understandable. 

The King Cake represents the three wise men that brought gifts to baby Jesus on Christmas Day. Traditionally, anyone that finds the plastic baby inside of the King Cake has to buy the next one. The three different colors also have a significant meaning. Purple represents justice, green symbolizes faith, and gold represents power. 

Cinnamon and sugar are pretty standard when it comes to a King Cake, but you can add any flavored filling that you want. Making it from scratch was a lot harder than I anticipated, but everyone said that it tasted delicious, so it was well worth it! 

Care Package of Love

I came home yesterday to a wonderful surprise waiting for me! My parents sent me a lovely care package of New Orleans treats! Filled with staples from home that I've surely been missing, I am so excited to get to cookin’! Jambalaya and gumbo are two classic New Orleans dishes that everyone should try at least once! The thing I’m most excited about is the beignet mix from Café Du Monde! I’ve never made beignets before, but I’m looking forward to trying it out.


The 21 of February marks Fat Tuesday of Carnival in New Orleans, and it’s a tradition that I am so sad to miss. I’ve never skipped Mardi Gras in all of my 22 years, and it truly breaks my heart. In order to celebrate the occasion all the way from Florida, I’ll be making a King Cake next week for my classmates! Pictures to come! I hope they enjoy the traditional dessert as much as I do!

Last, but not least, Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! 

XLVI

Even though my beloved Saints didn't playing in the Super Bowl, I still rocked my Brees jersey for the big game. 

Super Bowl parties are the best, whether your team is playing or not. The good friends and food totally make it! Since I was crunched on time I picked up these adorable and festive cupcakes from the store. 

Adorned with super bowl themed rings for each team, they were the perfect treat! I was obviously rooting for the Pats, but had a good time either way. 

My favorite part was definitely the half time show! Madonna killed it, and I absolutely loved all of the costumes! I'd wear this Cleopatra inspired ensemble any day! 

Photo credit: http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/293396/20120206/super-bowl-halftime-show-madonna-dazzles-cleopatra.htm

I'm already looking forward to next year since The Big Easy will be hosting it! Crossing my fingers that the Saints go all the way! : ) I hope everyone had a fabulous Super Bowl Sunday! 

Easy Living

After living in Orlando for a few months I’m beginning to discover a few things about the city.

1. Everyone that lives here insists on driving UNDER the speed limit…by at least 10 mph. It drives me bonkers.
2. Florida really is the sunshine state. It’s been at least 70 degrees out everyday, and I’m beginning to reconsider all of those winter items I bought. I’ve worn my new winter heels maybe once. : ( On the bright side, I can always lay out by the pool while I study! : )
3. So far, I’m finding it very hard to entertain myself on a budget. Everything fun here seems to cost lots of money. I’m sure that once I become more familiar with the city I’ll find more budget friendly options, but so far no luck. If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know!

I’ll be getting a puppy in about two weeks and am so excited about it! It should definitely help out with my entertainment issues, even though they can be a bit pricey to have. I can't take it anymore! I need the company. I’m planning to adopt one from the pound if I can find one there that suites me. I’ve been googling puppy names like crazy and have a short list drawn up. I’m still undecided and probably won’t pick until I get the puppy and figure out his/her personality. My new family addition can't get here fast enough! I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!