#31Write Now: Saturday & the City

Saturday was a lovely day in the city. I played tourist in my own city this weekend. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Made my way to the Riverwalk. I was on a mission. I was going to try out a new restaurant, "Poppy's The Crazy Lobster." It was packed. We decided to sit outside because I wanted to be near the water. There was a live band, The Mojo Combo, playing as we walked in. They were pretty good. The hostess was nice as was our server. The atmosphere was very welcoming. I had high hopes for the food and drinks. After being there for only five minutes, I just knew that I wouldn't be disappointed. I'm happy to say that I was correct. 

Let's get into the food. I had an Arnold Palmer (half tea/half lemonade) to begin. We decided on the Cajun Fried Pickles for appetizers. They were so good. They came with a ranch dipping sauce. The portion was more than enough for two people. Everything on the menu was described in such a way that it all made me hungry. We chose the shrimp and grits and the bayou catfish platter.  We shared everything. We were both stuffed. It was all so delicious. By the time our entrees arrived, the first band left and a new band took their place. Both bands were great. I am biased because I love live music. Our server, Carlin, was so funny. He took great care of us. He even snapped a few pictures as well. I really liked him. The food and atmosphere were so good. I know I will be back. 

Sitting outside was the best decision we made. It was hot but the breeze off of the Mississippi River made it bearable. I love water. Always have. I also love watching the boats as they pass. We were there for almost three hours. We just took the time out to enjoy life and the moment. I know that I am always so caught up in my own life and in my own head that I forget to live. Existing is easy. Living is better. So, Saturday I truly existed in that moment. I wasn't even upset when the skies opened up and poured rain down on us. I took pictures instead. I laughed more. I also ordered a drink. It's called Poppy's Voodoo Juice and it was awesome. It is a bunch of different rums and ice cold pineapple juice. I loved the cup it came in. I can honestly say that I was tipsy halfway through it. I was completely drunk by the end of it. Drunk Kenda is a laughing, smiling, damn good time. So, the Voodoo Juice made the day better. We walked in the rain and didn't care. 

I have to send a huge thanks to the friend who graciously gifted me with Groupon for "Poppy's Crazy Lobster." If not for that, I would have never discovered this dope spot. Good food, great atmosphere, and live music are a wonderful combination. I could not have asked for a more perfect day. I needed it. I deserved it. But, most of all, I enjoyed it. I had the best experience and it all happened here. I took the time to walk Canal Street. I shopped and window shopped in the Riverwalk. I indulged in my favorite pastime, people watching. Which, by the way, is super interesting. People are funny. I was my normal smiling, laughing, conversing with others self. I was happy. And, I could never have predicted that. Suffice it to say, Saturday was a damn good day. I ate good, drank well, laughed even more. I walked in the rain and took pictures. I got a little drunk and didn't care. My city was good to me Saturday and I thank her for it.  

Discover New Drinks!

I am a social drinker. I love a good vodka or a great glass of wine. Martini's are my mixed drink of choice these days. I usually stick to the basics when I drink. A dirty martini or a glass of Merlot. Sometimes, like this past weekend, I decided to deviate from that. I went to two different places and had a few new drinks. They were are all a success. So, I wanted to share them with you.



I've been a Moscato fan long before Drake rapped about it. I've tried a few different brands. I've never been disappointed by any of them. I think I've found one of my favorites. It is Gianni Doglia Moscato d'Asti. This Moscato is very sweet but not overly so. I was very impressed with it. The bottle's were reasonably priced. And, our glasses stayed full all night. I will definitely be enjoying this again. Even though I prefer reds, Moscato and Chardonnay's will always be fine with me. A good glass of wine can never be a bad thing. So, these are my new found discoveries. You guys should check them out.



This drink right here ^^^ is my absolute new favorite drink!! It's a fresh strawberry martini. I had it last weekend from Bonefish Grill. I am a vodka girl which means I love a good martini. It was made with Square One Botanical vodka, hand-muddled strawberries and chamomile citrus tea infusion. This is the best mixture ever. I love strawberries so much. They are my favorite fruit. I have never had a martini that included strawberries in any way. It was as good as it looks. It was sweet and smooth. It wasn't too strong but it was just right. I had two. Get into it, people!!

Social Drinker

I am a social drinker. I like what I like. A great dirty martini or glass of Blackberry Merlot are always on my list. I'm partial to vodka, preferably top shelf like Grey Goose, Belvedere, Ciroc & Ketel One. I'm also into wine. I don't have a favorite. I like reds, merlot being the best thing ever. Whites and blushes are good as well. I do not drink the way I did in college. But then again, who can? Lol. I am 32 not 22 anymore. It's so strange the way your body changes as you get older. I used to be able to outdrink some of my boys. Those days are long gone.



I know people drink for all different reasons. There has only been one time when I can remember that I drank to escape. After my dad was killed, I didn't want to deal or feel anything. So I drank. A lot. For a whole semester, I was buzzed and/or drunk. I needed to be someone else. In hindsight, I know my behavior was detrimental. But, back then, it was my only option. Since then, I've never allowed myself to get to that point again. I don't drink to avoid my feelings. I don't even drink that much right now.



Everything in moderation. That's the key when it comes to vices. Drinking is something I do to unwind & relax. Nothing more, nothing less. I can't really think of a better reason. I don't do it often. I don't overindulge. I also don't judge those who don't drink. I would hope anyone who felt the need to judge me about anything I do or don't do would kindly keep it to themselves. I'm not overly concerned with what others do. So, if I feel like having a drink or three, trust me I will. It will usually be in the confines of my own spot. I prefer to drink at home. Drink up!

I Need A Drink!!

This posts title is accurate. It's been one of those days. I just need one. I like a good drink every now and then. I've noticed that the older that I get, the less I drink. I am, by nature, a vodka girl. I prefer top shelf vodkas. I love Grey Goose, like Ciroc, Belve and Ketel One. I do not rock with Taaka. It's gross. Any mixed drink where vodka is involved is a good one to me. Especially martini's. The dirtier, the better. But, I also can drink it straight, with pineapple juice or on the rocks. I don't care for any brown liquors. They don't agree with me and I don't care for the taste.

Outside of vodka, I am all about the great glass of wine. I love merlots as well as pinot grigio's. I like reds just as much as whites. I'm split on blush wines though. Champagne makes me giggly. I think its a waste of money since there is only about 4 glasses per bottle. It's nice for a party. But it not something I would spent my money on. A good drink can fix anything in that moment. It takes my mind off of whatever is going on. It relaxes me. That is always a great thing. What do you guys drink? Do you have a signature one? Tell me!