[not watson's]

I love Market Square in Knoxville. It is that town square you see in movies, full of restaurants, bars, and boutiques, that also hosts town events and farmer's markets. Every now and again, a new restaurant opens and I make it my mission to taste test it. This past trip, I made a visit to Not Watson's, a new restaurant and bar in Market Square. I hadn't really heard much about it so I used a free afternoon to grab a quick lunch.

It was 4:30 p.m. on a Wednesday, so I was the only customer. Obviously, they sat me very quickly, and I realized I knew one of the waiters, so I instantly felt at home. The menu was limited but I realized they have a niche: hot dogs. Looking back I probably should have ordered one, but I was really in the mood for chili so I ordered a cup of chili, which came with 'a surprise' [aka a grilled cheese sandwich - yummy!]. It was actually very good! It had fresh jalapeños on top, adding just the right amount of spice.

All in all, I'll probably visit again. The vibe was very much sports bar and the prices were decent, so I would definitely go there to dinner with friends.

Happy Wednesday all!

"there is no love sincerer than the love of food."
- george bernard shaw

[remedy]

Last week, I set out to do some discovering in Knoxville. One of these discoveries was an easy one, since my friend works there. I had heard about Remedy Coffee from her and from some research I'd done online, so of course I figured I'd give it a try. I was also looking for a quiet place to get some work done outside of my house, and good coffee is always a plus!

Remedy Coffee is a local coffee shop in the Old City, near Downtown Knoxville. It's a non-profit shop and proceeds go to different charities / causes each month, and it's run by a local church. [Let me be clear that I do not push religion on anyone, and I've never been to that church - it's not even my religion.] That being said, any small town shop whose proceeds go to worthy causes is 100% ok in my book.

So here are a few pictures of Remedy, the place I grew to enjoy spending time in. I'll definitely be back next time i'm in Knoxville.

They don't make food in house but local bakers/bakeries do bring things in to sell, so it's a toss up each day! And the baristas are cool about making custom coffees and trying new things. (I had a teddy graham latte one day!)

There's a private room above the actual work area for those who may want more quiet.

And a room in the back with added seating!

Here's to my morning cup o' joe in Miami and a good week for us all!

"when words are both true and kind they can change the world."

- buddha

[traveling]

I'm writing from an airport terminal right now, because i'm on my way to Knoxville!!! I am taking a birthday trip before heading to a friend's wedding in Memphis this weekend. Today is my birthday after all! What with the odd weather and unforeseen plans, here's how my crazy OCD self packed for this 10 day trip.

First, I made a schedule of the days and what type of outfits I would need based on that day's plans.

Then, I counted how many casual outfits I needed and planned those out. Remember, I'm traveling to colder weather, so I can't just bring my regular Miami clothes!

After that I just made notes to add undergarments, jewelry, and workout clothes. There was an itemized list too, but that one was really messy, so I'm not posting it here. But I basically took the items from my detailed outfits list and used that to make sure I had every single item packed. It's a little crazy and VERY thorough, but if I don't make lists I feel flustered and always end up forgetting something. It works for me!

"whatever makes you weird is probably your greatest asset."

- joss whedon

[weekend recap: Mr. & Mrs. Finch]

Happy Monday everyone! Last week sped by as I was preparing to head back home (to Knoxville) for one of my best friends' weddings. I worked Friday, drove to Miami International Airport, and flew to Knoxville. Friday night was mostly catching up with the rest of the bridal party and the bride, touching up our nails, and going over last minute details. She had to practice the song she was going to sing for her husband!!!

Saturday began by Victoria waking us all up (because of course she couldn't sleep), and a pancake and mimosa breakfast! We all went and got our hair and makeup done, drove back home for a quick lunch and then to the venue, Dara's Garden! If you've never been or seen it and are considering getting married in the Knoxville / Maryville area, you definitely need to check out these photos and their website. The place is the perfect combination of country, chic, intimate and quaint. The wedding party lounged in their respective suites (bridal suite and groom's suite) before pictures and the ceremony. The night was spent taking pictures, crying and laughing at a beautiful ceremony, and eating, drinking and dancing at the reception.

Victoria & I waiting to take pictures.

All our dresses!

Our button - ups!

Their first dance!

Best friends of the bride...sneaking a selfie!

Unfortunately Sunday was basically me waking up, showering, seeing the bride and groom for about an hour and then going to the airport. It was a long weekend but I had tons of fun seeing everyone. Here's a photo recap!

I hope you all have a great week!

"if you pressed me to say why I loved him, I can say no more than because he was he, and I was I."
- michel de montaigne

[missin' ole rocky top]

So I just got wind that I have four days off in a row. Off course, today is the first day and I just found out about 20 minutes ago. Basically, what could have been a four day getaway is now just going to be thoughts of what could have been. My first was, 'oh, man, I could've gone home to Knoxville.' Now, I'm not one to mope and waste my time thinking of what might have been, so I'm just going to make the most of this mini-vacation while here at my new home. BUT, I will get a taste of home by wearing some things I picked up on my recent trip to Knoxville.

I purchased this tank and necklace while on a random day trip to Market Square. We had the whole day to explore before heading to the airport, so we walked around, ate a delicious meal at Stock & Barrel, and did some shopping.

I got this Tennessee necklace at Bluetique!

This is basically a staple now, from Nothing Too Fancy.

"rocky top, you'll always be home sweet home to me! good ole' rocky top, rocky top tennessee!"