Unexpected Surprises In Tijuana Tanya's Daily Scoop CURRENTLY IN: ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA HOLA! We are back in the USA from our day trip to Tijuana, which was filled with so many unexpected happy surprises. We started out by walking across the border - passports in hand. Although the weather was nothing short of perfect, we were going to be doing a lot of walking, so what better way for us stay cool and hydrated than the local favorite - Aguas Frescas. Both Violet and I got a Cucumber/Lime that was soooo fresh, tasty and refreshing. Michael went with his favorite - strawberry and cream...which was kinda more of a dessert. And Dave had the Jamaica (Hibiscas). We were heading to Serenity Spa for some wonderful full body massages. - BTW why don't I start everyday with a visit to the spa for a full body massage? It was then very much time to eat! We have attempted on more than one occasion to try out the 'Vegan Workshop' (which is right down the street from the spa) but they seem to always be closed. This time we found out that they are renovating and that is why they are "always" closed. So off we headed to our next planned stop which was to Mr. Tofu - we were looking forward to getting some vegan tamales - which we were successful at doing, but we were only getting hungrier and still needed to eat. We strolled and strolled - aiming for the museum complex and in hopes of finding something to eat. And then just like magic, we walked right past the front of Earth Bowl. This place was bom-diggity good. Then again to our surprise and just by chance as we turned the corner we happened to walk right by a local health food store - Nutriworld. The health food store also had a number of scrumptious looking baked goodies, which I opted to choose some as a delightful treat to bring home for Dominic and Cosette. Upon paying, I quickly found out that the store does not accept any credit cards that are not from a Mexican based bank. Uh oh. I then kinda ran out of pesos and thought it wouldn't necessarily be an issue, as the others in my group still had funds. And I figured that the museum complex would surely accept my US based credit cards. But then as we approached the museum complex, we were surprised and delighted to see that there was an unexpected festival happening. It was the Cultura Viva of Oaxaca. To our delight, live music played and there were tents galore of food, drinks, delicacies and a trove of various treasures that covered the museum grounds. At first, we were making a rather crooked beeline to the intended museum gardens, but only to find out that they closed early. Which of course was not an issue for us, as we were really enjoying the atmosphere of the festival. My only issue was that I wanted to buy more than I did. But most of the booths only took cash. Once it was time to head back to the border, we gathered all of our bags and made the trek back to California. Michael had a few more stops along the way, to fill orders from friends who had asked for: tamales, candy and cigarettes. He's hands were so full and his bags weighed sooooo much that I jokingly suggested he should charge an international delivery fee LOL. Well folks that is about it for today. I hope that you enjoy the rest of your weekend. Have a wonderful Father's day and find some unexpected surprises along the way. Ciao 4 now, -Travelin' Tanya | Afternoon Tea & Cookies at Dutchess Cookies Elisa's Daily Scoop CURRENTLY IN: LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK Happy Saturday!! I am totally in my glory this past week because of the incredibly gorgeous weather we are having here on Long Island!! With perfect temperatures, sunny skies and low humidity, it's been a pure joy!1 This was quite a busy week and I am so ready for some R&R this weekend. I kicked off the weekend with a lovely walk with my pooch, Punkin - just soaking in the lovely morning air. But, not before I had to wake her out of her slumber alongside her feline brother Wylan. Afternoon Tea & Cookies!!! We had a special little event planned for today - One of the local cookie shops, Dutchess Cookies was having an Afternoon Tea event and so we headed over there to partake in the tea and goodies!! By now, you guys know how healthy eating is a high priority for both me and. Tanya. And while I wouldn't necessarily put sweets at the top of the "healthy" list, it is very important that when we do indulge in them, that they are using the finest ingredients. Dutchess cookies has a commitment to using only the very best stuff including the freshest fruits, richest chocolates, best butter, and highest quality flour. No artificial flavors, no additives, no GMO's, and no fake sweeteners. Now, at present, their cookies are not vegan, as they do contain dairy, but perhaps we can get them to incorporate some vegan options in the near future!! However, for all of you non-vegans on Long Island who are looking for a wholesome cookie - head on over to one of their several locations. Of course, my location of choice is Oceanside, where the owner, Sophia Demetriou can often be found baking cookies and hosting events! The atmosphere is super inviting with an eclectic style and fun colors! What I found out is that Sophia, the owner was actually an interior designer prior to opening her store, which makes total sense considering the flair and chic European style of this intimate space. Here are a few snaps from our day!! Ordinarily, we just pop in when we get a chance to grab a few yummy cookies. My favorite is the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip!! Well, on that note - wishing you a sweet weekend! - Travelin' Elisa |