Rain, Rain Go Away...

Can't you see that it's just raining?

There ain't no need to go outside...

The best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain...

"Weather is a great metaphor for life - sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad, and there's nothing much you can do about it but carry an umbrella."

It will be nice to leave Florida and all of the rain we have been having and head out to Chicago.  Hopefully the weather in Chicago will be nicer...on the other hand, one thing is for sure, Chicago's weather is completely unpredictably.  Nice and sunny one moment then all of a sudden cold and rainy...oh well will see what this summer holds.

rainy Florida..

Looking forward to some sunny skies and lots more in Chicago...

Have a good day everyone.

And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow....

~Nadiya~

Happy Birthday Reshma...

A niece like you is a miracle that never ceases to be miraculous...full of beauty and forever beautiful...loving and caring and truly amazing...

A niece is a day brightener and a heart warmer.  Today she's 13 years old and I wish she was here, living  closer to us.  Reshma is my niece and she is a a little girl wonder. She never ceases to amaze us.  I just want her to know how much I love love and that we look forward to seeing her and everyone this summer.  Nothing makes me happier than being surrounded by loved ones...

Big hugs from auntie Nad, Uncle Arvid and meows from Brutus.  I love you Reshma and am always here for anything you want or need.

My niece Reshma, is one of the most beautiful gifts this world has given me.

~Nadiya~

Pleasant Outing....

When women are depressed, they eat or go shopping.  Men invade another country.  It's a whole different way of thinking... 

What girl does not enjoy a day out at the mall?  Can't name any that I know because I can tell you for sure that I love going to the mall.  I don't get there as often as I would like, but just the idea of going there is a treat for me.  I have quite a few malls to choose from and today I decided on Westfield Broward Mall.  Every time I go there it seems like another new store popping up.

I enjoy window shopping more than anything.  Love to see the new collection of clothes, shoes you name it.  The other day I went out for a few hours all by myself...so good.  My first stop is normally the shoe department.  Today I happened to try just one pair and decided right away it was for me.  So I thought Arvid would like to get them for me and I did.  

Another of my favorite places to shop is at Victoria's Secret and today was no exception.  So many beautiful things to look at and choose from.  I was really into the pleasing myself mode so I decided to get a few things from there also and since Arvid was with me on this day I got to choose whatever I liked.

I really like shopping at Macy's, Dillards, Aeropostale, G by Guess, Aldo, and Love Culture among others (new in the mall).  

Going to the mall means a must stop to Häagen-Dazs, The American Cookie Store or The Cinnabon shop.  


Today I indulged in chocolate chip cookies and white macadamia cookies.  Heaven.   Not because I like the mall means every time I have to buy something.  For me the fun is just in browsing around and if I should end up with something I am also very happy...

Shopping is a woman thing.  It's a contact sport like football.  Women enjoy the scrimmage, the noisy crowds, the danger of being trampled to death and the ecstasy of the purchase...

~Nadiya~

A Favorite Of Ours...

Every major food company now has an organic division. There's more capital going into organic agriculture than ever before....

How many of you enjoy grocery shopping?  Maybe not as much as I do, but if you went shopping at The Whole Foods Market it promises to be a treat and a very pleasurable experience.  Not only do you have tons of organic products to choose from ranging from vegetable, eggs, meats etc, but you also have a great selection of baked foods, cooked foods and some very succulent desserts.

We are fortunate to have two of these markets very close to us.  Though I buy quite a few products here a must is always Arvid's bread.  It's called Prairie bread and if he does not get it he is not a happy camper.  It is also a very nutritious and tasty bread with lots of ingredients good for you.

Ingredients: Nonfat milk, rice flour, tapioca starch, eggs, evaporated cane juice, canola oil, yeast, millet, buckwheat, pumpkin seeds, xanthan gum, salt, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax, poppy seeds, lemon juice.

Another favorite of mine is shopping through their Body Care Products.  I love everything and at some point I have tried quite a few of their products.  I cannot say that they have all agreed with me, but I never give up on trying new things.  Right now I like their line called Gabriel.  I use the lipstick and lip gloss and find that they suit me well.  This is my favorite gloss right now.

What I like about the cosmetics is quality of the ingredients which I think is safer for our bodies and our planet.   Most of the body care line emphasizes that taking the best care of yourself and the environment doesn't have to be a sacrifice!

my helper

Arvid who is not really the grocery shopper type never likes to miss a chance to go with me to the Whole Foods Market. We go there, he goes straight to the bakery section to pick up the bread I called in earlier.  We normally buy 5-7 at a time and freeze then.  I then walk around and do the rest of the shopping always ending up with things I did not really go for but....so delicious and so tempting.  Last year Arvid's brother visited us in Chicago and one of their favorite places was The Whole Foods Market.

I don't buy everything here, I do not believe all of it is actually better than at the regular grocery store, but the products we do buy are excellent and I will not buy them elsewhere.  For me just going there is a treat and I look forward to those trips.  Even Brutus ends up with something...It's a win win for everyone:)

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit...

~Nadiya~

Piña Coladas

If you like Pina Coladas, and getting caught in the rain.

If you're not into yoga, if you have half-a-brain.

If you like making love at midnight, in the dunes of the cape.

I'm the lady you've looked for, write to me, and escape...

It goes without saying that I have a weakness for way too many things and not all that good for me.  I'm weak as Arvid says.  Piña Colada happens to be one of those many weaknesses. I have to say that this must be my favorite alcoholic drink. I don't care for beer, wine nor anything else, but offer me a Piña Colada and I'm all in.

The other day as Arvid and I were out enjoying a beautiful day in the sunshine, until the rain came along.  We went to this very nice place on the beach and of course I had to have a Piña Colada. I drink it way too fast so maybe that's why I get tipsy after the first two sips, but I don't care they are so good that I just don't like to let it sit around for too long.

After about 15 minutes I was already in a very good mood so Arvid suggested I have another one. "Why not" I said. I did, but unfortunately I just was not able to do it. After a few sips, I just could not do more. I was practically unsteady and ready to fall asleep. I lose all control after two drinks of anything. Sad...I see everyone drinking and here I am can hardly manage 2 Piña Coladas without making a fool of myself.

The next day I decided to make my own Piña Colada at home. Pretty simple actually. All you need is:

Coco Lopez

Pineapple Juice

Bacardi Rum, I prefer white rum to dark. Some top it off with additional rum (usually dark rum). This makes me sick so I skip it.

Cherries just to make it look pretty and chunks of pineapple if you like.

I like it on the sweeter side so I blend equal parts of coco Lopez and pineapple juice with lots of ice and Bacardi rum as much or as little as you like. Mix it all in the blender until the ice is all crushed and the consistency is smooth.

Pour into glasses and enjoy your very own homemade Piña Colada. Better than the ones you buy out!

"Yes, I like Pina Coladas, and getting caught in the rain.

I'm not much into health food, I am into champagne.

I've got to meet you by tomorrow noon, and cut through all this red tape.

At a bar called O'Malley's, where we'll plan our escape."

~Good Morning Everyone~

It's really nice to wake up in the morning realizing that God has given you another day to live...

I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.

Good morning everyone.  Hope your weekend has been good so far.  Busy day yesterday with a little fun outings and some work.  Waking up to some cloudy weather which I hope will not last all day long.  

No day for me is a good day unless it starts with my cafe, and today is no exception.  With Arvid still in bed it's just Brutus and I and a good cup of cafe to begin the day.  

Brutus waits patiently every morning for us to get up.  Both Arvid and I have different "chore" with him when we awake.  It's now my turn to walk him to his foodies and to his water since Arvid still in bed.

The best part of the morning is knowing that someone is waiting for you to wake up. 

~Nadiya~

I continue to smile each day because life is simply way too short to cry of anything that's worthless

Sawgrass Mall...

Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping...

If you have an entire day to just shop, then Sawgrass Mall is definitely the place for you.  This is what I call an outlet mall!  This mall takes an entire day and maybe some more...the main criteria here is to make sure you have comfy shoes, lots of money and it never hurts to take your husband or partner with you.  Here there is something for everyone!  This was my destination today.

There is a whole variety of stores and many restaurants to choose from so one will never go hungry nor get bored.  Here people shop with an intensity like never seen.  When you are there you also get caught up in that shopping frenzy...I did and it was great.

If you are ever in the Fort Lauderdale area, this is a great place to visit. I would definitely recommend it.  The prices are fabulous and like I said there is something for everyone!  Just be aware that this place gets really crowded and parking can become an issue.

Sawgrass is the 6th largest mall in the United States and the 2nd largest in Florida.  There are over 300 retail outlets and name brand discount stores.

So be ready for a full day of shopping and enjoy!

I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist...

~Nadiya~

Day Of Leisure...

Mr. Leisure

Necessity may be the mother of invention, but play is certainly the father...

Today the day is just mine to do anything I want.  The morning started out with clear skies for a change.  Yes, we have been having constant rain so it is nice to see the sun peeking out. In preparation for Chicago, I went to the dentist for a cleaning.  Feels nice and smooth now, my teeth that is.  Arvid is amazed that I have at least four cleanings a year.  He says he has one every 2 years.  Strange man.

Got a tiny workout before the dentist so I did not feel too guilty going to the mall and  indulging in one of my other weaknesses.  Yes, a trip to Red Mango's was in order and for my mango yogurt.

I also wanted to check out the MAC cosmetics section either at Macy's or Sephora, and maybe buy me a lipstick.  My sister just bought the color "Lickable" as you can see here and I am sure I need it as well.  

While at The Galleria I always like to checkout my favorite stores and see what's new.  Always something beautiful to look at and almost impossible to not come home with a "little" purchase from them.   I does not help that I just got some catalogs and am already making plans on what we need.  Just have to approach it the right way to Arvid and soon he will realize that we actually do need a few things.  Maybe some new sheets or a vase from Pottery Barn can be good.  We have quite a few of their vases and I have filled most of them with shells handpicked from Eleuthera.  

I can really spend quite some time just browsing.  I love to try on the new clothes, shoes and check out all the new stores that are popping up.

No trip to Galleria Mall is complete without a stop at the Food Court.  Tons and tons to choose form.  Arvid being Arvid does the same almost everytime...Pizza.  I also do the same which is the lunch buffet at Sabarro.  I love food and here I get to pick from quite a huge selection.  You can choose to eat healthy or you can choose to eat not so healthy.  The choice is all yours and that's what I love...CHOICES!

Galleria Mall

Whatever you do, remember to always make it count and to always have fun!

  I think the evening calls for a little music at Satchmo's.
Have a good day all!

We all need empty hours in our lives or we will have no time to create or dream..


~Nadiya~

Quotes...

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, 'thank you,' that would suffice...

Quotes are my favorite way of opening and signing off on my blog.  If you follow my blog you will have noticed that many times I may have used the same quote.  That's because it's just perfect for the blog I am writing and many a times just because I love it.  Here are a few of the ones I really like.  There are just too many so for now these are it...

Success is getting what you want. Happiness is wanting what you get

Be careful of who you pick as a friend, most people pretend to listen, but are only gathering information to judge you with

Hope you like them.

Enjoy your day everyone!

The things most people want to know about are usually none of their business...Why are you so interested in my life, is it that much better than yours?

~Nadiya~

Red Mango....

The problem with people who have no vices is that generally you can be pretty sure they're going to have some pretty annoying virtues...

It goes without saying that I really enjoy my mall outings and now I have an even better reason to go to the mall.  Since we have not been living that close to The Galleria Mall, I have not had the opportunity to check out all of the new stores that have opened up, but every so often I get to "sneak" away and indulge myself in some mall time.

One of the new places I have noticed (may not be that new) is a place called Red Mango.  I skipped it a few times, but after seeing each customers face once they tasted their frozen yogurt, I just had to give in and try it for myself.   

Red Mango's speciality is All Natural frozen Yogurt.  Yes you will say, just another yogurt stop.  Well I have to tell you this is not your everyday yogurt.  As they will proudly tell you,  

their nonfat frozen yogurt has it all —calcium, protein, and live and active cultures that are good for your body. Unlike other desserts that often contain artificial ingredients or excessive calories from fat and sugar, Red Mango frozen yogurt is all-natural, nonfat or low fat, and certified gluten-free.  Best of all it tastes absolutely wonderful.


Now I have something else to look forward to when going to the mall...Red Mango's.  You can choose from a Frozen Yogurt and they have about 40 different flavors.  So far mine is mango and Pomegranate.   You can also have Smoothies, which are made with non fat yogurt and fresh fruit (never frozen), or you can try the Fruit and Yogurt Smoothies, the Power Smoothies, the Spoonable Smooties and the Mealworthy Smoothies.


Whichever you decide to try, you will not be disappointed.  The flavors just blend smoothly in your mouth.  This is a treat you should definitely try!  Consider it your very own indulgence:)

Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!


~Nadiya~

A PET’S TEN COMMANDMENTS

We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals....

I wrote this blog a while back and it never ceases to pull on my heart strings.  For all of you who missed it, here it is again:)

Today I dedicate my blog to pets....for all of us that are lucky to have a pet you will relate to this....for those that don't I believe you will also be able to understand the bond a pet owner and their pets share.....

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your I friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember 

that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative,

ask yourself if something might be bothering me.  Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too,

will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me 

face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.   ALWAYS!

BRUTUS…LIL MYSULF

I love you with all my heart and we will always take care of you.

Mama and Dada 2012

You came to us on October 18 2006

            One of the happiest days of our lives...

"A house is not a home without a pet" "Dogs have owners, cats have staff"

~Nadiya~

Long Day...

All the best stories in the world are but one story in reality -- the story of escape. It is the only thing which interests us all and at all times, how to escape...

After a long day, it is nice to get home take a hot shower, have something cold to drink, and in my case I love fresh orange juice.  Everyday I make a tall glass of freshly squeezed OJ and I think I am in heaven.  This is my latest must have.

Another thing I like to do is read.  I love mystery, suspense, thrillers and non fiction.  Can do without the romance.  I also enjoy reading just plain gossip magazines at times, especially when I am super tired and do not want to really concentrate much.  The pictures are  glamorous and for a few minutes there you get caught up in what Arvid says is just nonsense.  He does glance through my magazines also.  I guess even he can use a little nonsense.

Just picked up the latest copy of Glamour. My favorite section is the Do's and Don'ts of Glamour.  Always makes me laugh.  This was just the right kind of reading for last night.  Light, superficial and lots of fluff.  Reading has a way of making me forget what's not right in my world.  I makes you forget even if it's only temporary all the negative things and it transports you into this magical world if only for a short time.   

Reading is an escape from everyday problems.  It soothes the soul and relaxes the mind.  What have you read lately?

Today is another day full of...........yes more work!

Have a good day everyone

The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go....

~Nadiya~

New Week...

No matter how busy you may think you are, you must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance...

Being busy is good and boy have we been busy.  We are soon getting ready to go to Chicago and there is so much we need to do and want to do before leaving.  Quite a few things are work related and many of course are just fun things we want to catch up with before the time is here to leave.

So far, this has been a very busy year for us.   Love it.  Nothing worse that being idle and nothing to do.  In our life we have spans where there is not much happening, but then all of a sudden things happen and it just seems to keep on happening.

As I always say, Arvid always finds something to do.  There is never a dull moment in our lives; he sure knows how to keep us busy.  This past week we did lots of cleaning, getting raid of stuff we don't need a little touch up here and there; before you know it so many things to do.  Never a dull moment.

We also had time to catch up on a few favorite places of ours.  Friday was Monty's a favorite of mine in Miami Beach.  Beautiful weather there while at home it was raining forever.  I enjoy their raw bar and Arvid enjoys the pitcher of Heineken beer.  Both happy.

A little bit of music and another favorite is The Downtowner Saloon.  Always nice to go back there.  At one time we were able to just walk over, not so anymore, so going back is a nice treat.

A new favorite of ours is Satchmo Blues Bar and as Harald the owner says, "you are my best customers."  The music is good and the food as well.

After a few days of working, especially when I have not done much heavy duty work in a while, I am tired.  Sunday was a good day for us.  Lots accomplished.  Good food and some extra special dessert and I was all set to just sit back relax and read my book.   As usual Arvid has all these different shows he has to watch.  Me I don't really care one way or the other.  Was nice to sit down listen to the rain pouring and just read while Arvid and Brutus watched TV.


Another week and yes counting down the days to Chicago.  The three of us are!  Well time to get busy and get as much taken care as we can.
Have a great day everyone!

The things I really learned, I learned from watching my parents. They take care of business.  Always have.


~Nadiya~

Lazy Sundays..

An American of the present day reading his Sunday newspaper in a state of lazy collapse is one of the most perfect symbols of the triumph of quantity over quality that the world has yet seen....

Whatever your day holds, hope it's a good one.  Take time to relax and enjoy some quality time with friends, family and yourself.  Never a bad idea and it sure makes Monday seem so much better.

As usual, Sunday is the day Arvid catches up with his family and our day to really just take it easy.  Time for some relaxed and long conversations with loved ones.  After that the day is all ours and time for some fun time to begin..  Good day also for paperwork especially if it is going to rain, fingers crossed that there is no rain today.  So far looks like a nice day.  If no rain well it's going to be a day full of outdoor work...hmmm not sure which is better right now.  One thing for sure, we will be going somewhere by the water for lunch.  Love to watch the boats go by and also an opportunity for some fun pictures.

Have a great day everyone.

Have a good day, do what you do, get where you're trying to go and beyond...

~Nadiya~