Best Brunch in Boston

There is no denying the universal appeal of the classic American brunch. Whether you're craving something sweet or savory, there is always something on the menu that will satiate your taste buds. Lately I've been trying to find restaurants that put a twist on the standard brunch items, such as an unique combination of flavors or the use of exotic ingredients. Brasserie Jo does a great job of incorporating traditional French dishes into their menu while accommodating to the mainstream American preferences. The Neighborhood Restaurant, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant run by a Portuguese family, is well known for their Portuguese Breakfast - a meat lover's paradise! The Beehive Eatery, the go-to place for jazz brunch, provides your usual eggs benedict or omelettes, but their menu changes often and its seasonal. In the end, regardless of what I've ordered, there truly is nothing more satisfying than enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends after a long night of drunken debauchery :)

Eggs Benedict with Virginia Ham at the Beehive

Cauliflower, Porcini, and Cheese Quiche at the Beehive

Croque Madame at Brasserie Jo

Chocolate French Toast with Almonds at Brasserie Jo

Portuguese Breakfast at the Neighborhood Restaurant

Latest Fashion Obsession: DVF Blouse

Yesterday I discovered Oona's Experienced Clothing, an unique thrift store that not only sells trendy clothing, but also time period pieces. I was really tempted to purchase a 60's themed plaid button-down and all of their chunky jewelry (only $15!), but I was committed to sticking to my budget. I found a DVF silk blouse in pristine condition with a price tag of $30! I couldn't believe my eyes. Though it is a few sizes bigger than what I typically wear, I figured that I could wear it as a tunic or tuck them into jeans/trousers so the fit can better match my frame. I've settled on 3 outfits that I can wear during the winter/spring. And then come summertime, I'll wear it with distressed cut-off shorts and my white straw espadrilles. This blouse is definitely versatile and brings a lot more color to my wardrobe!

Casual Friday Work Outfit

My version of the Boyfriend Blazer
Works well since the shirt has an elastic at the ends of the sleeves
A men's watch with a large screen is a nice added touch

 Girl's Night Out Outfit

Blouse tucked into pleated black shorts with black tights
 Add black ankle wedges and a statement ring to polish off this outfit 

Casual Weekend Outfit

Tunic style with a leather belt cinched at the hip (not the waist!)
Add a pair of knee high boots and chunky gold bracelets to polish off this outfit

Orchids to brighten up my day

This past week has been a little stressful for me. I've been spending a significant amount of time trying to figure out my personal finances, aka establishing a budget and a plan to pay off my student debt. I've also been applying for jobs and prepping for interviews, which is always a self-esteem booster (note the dripping sarcasm). For those that don't know me, I am in grad school pursuing my Master in Public Health, concentrating in Health Policy and Management. I graduate in May and am scared to my bones about where I end up! My passion is in improving the quality of care provided in hospitals and other health systems while also controlling health care costs. The U.S. Health Care System could learn a thing or two from other countries, such as Canada or England (ahem, single-payer health system), but we can table that controversial conversation for another day.

Sometimes in midst of all the everyday work and stress, it's easy to forget to the little things in life that brighten up my day. Anyway, I am thankful to my orchid (gift from the bf) which serves that purpose beyond my expectations. The white and fuchsia petals of orchid stands out against the stark contrast of the grey sky. In general, the orchid is not only an elegant plant, but a low maintenance one as well. Since I've never owned a pet (a goldfish from a carnival doesn't count) or plants before, I was very worried that it was going to wither in a couple of days. I water it just once a week and place it near the windowsill so it gets plenty of sunlight. I am proud to say that I've owned the orchid for a couple of weeks now and its luscious green leaves is a clear indication that it is a plant that receives tender loving care!

View from my living room window this morning

My orchid

Close-up of the orchid