Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Book Review: Wonder by RJ Palacio

2025-08-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

Wonder. A beautiful word that conjures up daydreams and lovely things... Thus, of course, I was drawn to this book in the $1 used book rack at the coolest small-town library this summer. 😍

Being captivated by its cover ended up leading me to a treasured summer read. Inside, the pages were filled with a touching tale of a boy with a big heart navigating life with his uniqueness.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Reading Wonder at a special spot in rural North Dakota 💙

The novel is broken down into various sections written from the perspective of different characters, each vibrant and complex in their own ways. I love how each part starts out with a apropos quote, for example, the start of Part Four, Jack, is highlighted by this quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupery, The Little Prince: "Now here is my secret. It is very simple. It is only with one's heart that one can see clearly. What is essential is invisible to the eye." while Part Eight, August, starts with the quote "You're gonna reach the sky ... Fly... Beautiful child." from the Eurythmics' song, "Beautiful Child".

The star of the story is August, AKA: Auggie, a boy born with a genetic facial difference. His loving family is his safe space. Homeschooled, he spends most of his time with his family and close friends, although he does enjoy time in his NYC neighborhood, observing the world around him.

His physical uniqueness has led to stares and comments from strangers all his life, and he's used an astronaut helmet to hide from such attention, feeling more normal and unnoticeable with the costume then with his actual face. While he is a normal kid in so many ways, his facial difference has made his life different from the average child, from tremendous surgeries to recognizing his trouble "blending in", Auggie has experienced so much in his young life. Thus, it is understandable his parent's efforts to protect their son and provide him the most loving upbringing.

As Auggie approaches 5th grade, however, his parents begin to ponder sending their smart and sensitive son to a private school for bright kids. The balance of protecting Auggie and helping him grow plays into their big decision. Ultimately, Auggie starts 5th grade at the private school tentatively, and a great personal adventure commences.

These novel shines the light on adversity and humanity, impacting the heart in a big way. Rooting on Auggie as he navigates 5th grade, it is endearing to see his evolution over the course of the year. He persists and evolves gracefully despite many heart-wrenching interactions & situations. It is also interesting to hear the tales from other characters' views, stories that serve as reminders of the complexities and contradictions of life that can exist. Especially lovely was observing how Auggie touched so many lives and hearts over the course of the academic year, even those you'd least expect.

So thankful I came across this novel while browsing the used book rack awaiting the ice cream social at the coolest small-town library. My kids and I came for ice cream + homemade hot fudge and sprinkles yet ultimately came away with stacks of great reads. While I thought I found a hidden gem, my crew immediately told me this novel had been made into a movie. Am I the only person who hasn't watched this movie? I'm compelled to add it to my watch list now that I've read the book. 😎

Sincerely,

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Book Review: Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

2025-01-11T17:11:00.000-08:00

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Teatime with a side of cookies & the book Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo.

This #1 New York Times Bestseller is a good book to turn to proactively. And definitely, it is a smart read for when times are tough, and one needs inspiration, motivation, or guidance on how to fix the tricky situations that can pop up in life, wants to figure out their life purpose is, or is trying to overcome self-doubt. imposter syndrome, procrastination, etc. etc.

Marie Forleo received the amazing advice of "everything is figureoutable" from her industrious mom when she told Marie "Nothing in life is that complicated. You can do whatever you set your mind to if you just role up your sleeves, get in there, and do it. Everything is figureoutable." Along with these words of wisdom, her mom displayed numerous instances of solving a variety of issues in everyday life, from patching roofs to fixing transistor radios.

Love how this book is peppered with quotes and scenarios that will pump you up for positive action. There are also special sections called Figureoutable Field Notes and Insight to Action Challenge. All sections in this book open one's eyes to taking the needed steps forward in the journey to be empowered so one may shine a beautiful, bright light in the world. The insights and advice help deconstruct roadblocks or self-doubt that are getting in the way of happiness and success. The book reminds the reader that progress is more important than perfection and that each of us have a special, unique gift to offer the world.

The preface of the book states "The power isn't out there, it's in you." And at the end of the book there is a solo page that states an anonymous quote, "Remember that gal that gave up? Neither does anyone else." These are apropos statements that highlight the theme throughout Marie Forleo's masterpiece that we are our own superhero, we are our own main character, and we have the power to solve problems that appear and create the life of our dreams.

Thanks, Marie Forleo, for writing this fun, insightful, & super helpful book! You provide simple yet profound wisdom. Here's to embracing this in my life, including sharing these concepts with my children, helping impart the spirit and knowledge of "Everything is Figureoutable". 🧡🧡🧡

Lovely Las Vegas: Autumn Coffee Art & Gratitude

2024-10-19T15:48:00.012-07:00

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Weather-wise I am looking forward to fall in Lovely Las Vegas... How about you?

Yesterday felt like the first autumn day in 2024... popping up out of seemingly nowhere...

It was a surprise to suddenly have to grab my windbreaker running out the door.

Cozy days, changing colors of the leaves, reading nooks with blankets, books, & warm cuppas...

So grateful for friends who create coziness and safety in my life in this season and all the time.

Lovely Las Vegas: Seven Magic Mountains by Ugo Rondinone

2024-06-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Ugo Rondinone:

Magisk. Your artwork is appropriately named Seven Magic Mountains.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

For magic is what we feel when visiting your vibrantly colored towering art outside of Las Vegas.

We've visited several times, and each time have come away in awe. Enjoying the surrounding quiet desert landscape while seeing <<cairn modern art vibes>> from your magical mountain creations. It is inspiring, it is captivating, it is lovely.

Thank you to the whimsy in your heart to come up with this stunning splash of color to punctuate our beautiful desert land.

Sincerely,

Jules

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

P.S. We are entranced by your towering structures, while also getting to escape the city and have the wonder-full opportunity to bond with the natural world around us. 🌟🌟🌟

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

And an important message from the artist: "This is free to the people, please respect the artwork, please do not vandalize."

- Ugo Rondinone

{Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas)

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Limi Sashimi (Halim) performing the National Anthem at the Aviator's game

2024-05-31T15:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Halim (AKA: Limi Sashimi @limisashimi):

Well done on your amazing electric guitar rendition of the National Anthem at the Las Vegas Aviators' baseball game. It was incredible (surreal!) to be in the stands watching you perform 🎜🎜 at such a notable venue!

Your dedication to the guitar is exemplary & your talent impressive. I'm glad you have found something you love - for yourself - and that you find joy in sharing with others. You've grown so much in your musical journey and shine brightly when jamming out on the guitar. <<Rock on!>>

We're posting the first ever video on the Lovely Las Vegas YouTube site ... it happens to be the video we captured during your Aviators' National Anthem performance! 🌟🌟🌟

Here's the link: https://youtu.be/ChdQque2U4Q

Big Hug! From your Big Fans,

Jules + The 3 Bears

Jules + 🐻🐻🐻@ Lovely Las Vegas

Photo by Jules @lovelylasvegas

Lovely Las Vegas: St. Rose Dominican 66th Celebration Gala

2024-05-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

Dear St. Rose Dominican Celebration Gala:

Cheers to another lovely event! There's no place like St. Rose! Nor a gala as grand as your gala! 🌟

Loved the Wizard of Oz theme, weaved expertly throughout various elements of the night from the larger-than-life decor to the delicious trio of mini desserts at the end of the night.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

There was lovely entertainment from Carnell "Golden Pipes" Johnson, playing the Voice of Oz this evening but more famously known as The Booming Voice behind the Vegas Golden Knights as well as a cozy little concert by Grammy Award-winning singer & songwriter Colbie Caillat. Harbor Lights providing amazing musical entertainment, too. 🎶🎶🎶

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

It was amazing to see all the support via the silent and live auctions at the gala! The live auction was an especially exciting time with a super sweet pup called Toto fetching a $11,000 donation to the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation. Well done, Toto! 🐕

St. Rose and the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation contribute greatly to our community, caring for acute health needs of many local Nevadans and those in rural communities of surrounding states (as well as visiting tourists in need of healthcare!) plus providing impactful, expansive community health programs.

Definitely, a fun way to contribute to the St. Rose mission is by attending the Celebration Gala yet a super simply way to support the cause on any other day is via the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation website. Check it out here:

St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation (supportstrose.org)

*** or ***

https://www.supportstrose.org/ways-to-give/donate

There's no place like St. Rose!

With Love, Light, & Gratitude,

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

P.S. Interested in the eats? Here are more food fotos + the scoop on the evening menu:

Salad with artisan lettuces, heirloom tomatoes, shaved purple carrots, English cucumbers, and homemade green goddess dressing

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Entree: filet of beef and Manuka honey roasted salmon duo seasonal veggies, potato puree

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Last but not least... Dessert with coffee/tea: over the rainbow Wizard of Oz ruby slipper berry mousse, rainbow cake slice, emerald tart, dark chocolate mousse and vanilla bean cream

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

P.P.S. Here were my shoes that night - more Tin Man than Dorothy vibes but sparkly none-the-less!

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Book Review of Trust your Vibes Live An Extraordinary Life by Using Your Intuitive Intelligence by Sonia Choquette

2024-05-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Sonia Choquette:

Your book Trust Your Vibes is beautiful magic!

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

I love how Trust Your Vibes highlights divine concepts my heart has known to be true over the years. 💖 Concepts I have not been able to eloquently or succinctly communicate. Salient wisdom I haven't always been brave enough to follow, letting my rational brain override my intuitive woo-woo vibes my body was feeling.

Your book is a poignant reminder, giving me inspiration and courage to live more attentively, more intuitively, to trust my vibes better, allowing me to be guided gracefully by that woo-woo wisdom.

As a New York Times Best-Selling Author, I expected greatness from your book. What I got was greatness in the form of an extraordinarily warm guide which provided easy to understand recommendations for how to trust your vibes along with corresponding exercises on how to practically start this process of rekindling the innate wisdom we all have access to (but need some help sometimes to be tuned in with it!)

Cheers to intuitive intelligence and its role in opening up the path to an extraordinary life filled with awe, beauty, ease, joy, and the sweetest things in life (to name a few!) Cheers to many magical moments! Cheers to shining brightly! 🌟

With Love, Light, Gratitude, & Sincerity, 💗

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Panna Thai Restaurant

2024-04-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Panna Thai Restaurant:

Thank you for the lovely dining experience!

My dear friends surprised me for a cozy celebratory dinner at your Southwest Las Vegas spot.

We hadn't had a just girls meet up for a while as our sweet little ones are always involved in our gatherings. We have seven amazing boys between the three of us so when we all hang out it can get to be boisterous in the best possible kid-centric way. This was quite the quiet dinner in contrast, haha.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

The Delicious Eats:

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Making Birthday Wishes:

Photo property of Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Your wait staff was top notch, the food was yummy... and dear friends always make it a gold-star dinner! Thank you for a wonderful evening.

Sincerely,

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: d'annata Boutique at Tivoli Village

2024-04-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Tivoli Village's d'annata boutique is one of the loveliest around! Dreamily pretty in pink and neutral hues, this local shop gives inspiring visions of a home infused with cozy beauty.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

A favorite item over the years has been the 1803 Candles which have a lovely vintage vibe with the mason jar plus wonderful scents. This is the sweet statement on the Vintage Harvest candle:
"We are blessed with a fruitful harvest. Our table is full and we are thankful."

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

A unique memory at the store was when author Sheri Salata spoke and did a book signing for The Beautiful No: And Other Tales of Trial, Transcendence, and Transformance in 2019. As a long-time bibliophile, it was inspiring and magical to be part of such an amazing event.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Photo property of Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Most recently my sister and I dropped by the boutique during their February anniversary event which had sweet treats to mark the special occasion. It was fun to browse, enjoy some delicious bites and ultimately come away with a cool 702 baseball cap (a portion of the proceeds help feed food insecure individuals here in the 702!) This hat is perfect for sporting local pride, while helping those in need and protecting our eyes from the sizzling sun! {Brand: (code)word, Garments That Give}

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Photo by Jules @Lovely Las Vegas

Grazie d'annata for the beauty you bring to our Lovely Las Vegas community! 💕💖💕

Lovely Las Vegas: Via Brasil Steakhouse Summerlin

2023-08-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

To:

Via Brasil Steakhouse

1225 S. Fort Apache Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89117

Dear Via Brasil:

I recently dined at your restaurant to celebrate the birthdays of two dear Leo friends (my amigas since the 1990s.😊)

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

I love how you are nestled in the Summerlin Boca Park area and that you have a beautiful Jerusalem Stone facade. On the rare occasion I have dined at a Brasilian rodizio-style restaurant, I've gone to Texas de Brazil in Town Square so it feels nice to come to a lovely spot a bit closer to home.

Wanting to say thank you very much for a wonderful evening. From the delicious salad bar (I could just happily only eat from there without any longing or saudade for the carne) to the friendly and kind servers delivering what seemed to be an unending supply & variety of deliciously prepared meats.

It was a fun experience and festive way to celebrate my friends' birthday. 😍😎

Obrigada!

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

P.S. My plate of salat before I remembered it is a rodizio-style steakhouse so I must sample the meat!

No pictures were captured of the carne as the experience was so engaging. 📷

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Japan Creek Market

2022-10-21T21:29:00.003-07:00

Dear Japan Creek Market:

What a fun surprise to serendipitously find your shop today. While relatively little in size, you are big in spirit, filled with many wonderful Japanese treasures. 🇯🇵 ❤️

Loved the yummy take-away (mapo tofu, spicy tuna roll, plus ITO EN unsweetened Matcha Genmaicha) and definitely looking forward to a shopping excursion for Japanese food & treats with my boys on an upcoming visit.

Until then, a big, big <<Arrigato!>>

Sincerely,

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Conveniently located on Eastern, near the 215 & Eastern exit/on-ramp, in the Beltway MarketPlace, at 9310 S. Eastern, Suite #115.

Was eyeing the made in Japan shaved ice machines that can make fluffy ice & crushed ice - for yummy desserts.

To drink. 🍵💚

Spicy tuna roll! Nice way to roll into the week-end ; ).

And mabo tofu / mapo tofu to bring home. 🏡

It was delish!

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Home Means Nevada Co.

2022-10-21T17:25:00.003-07:00

Love, love, love this shop! Home Means Nevada Co. is a bright ode to our beautiful state. While I was at The District for some other business, I strolled upon the main stretch and was excited to see this storefront. Inside my eyes were delighted with so many cool and colorful options to showcase Nevada pride. It feels wonderful to support this local small business that is all about our wonderful state. 💙

Interior: Great vibes inside!

Fun NV artwork & clothing & gifts abound.

Looking forward to another visit : ).

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore

2022-07-08T23:02:00.003-07:00

Little nourishment rest stop at this cute coffee shop & bookstore in route to Hemenway Park.

Decor included a minimalistic take on a Swedish Dala Horse.

Oooh la la! There is a super cute book store, too!!! 📚❤️

Definitely some great finds in the book 📚 store!! ❤️

We didn’t forget to eat at the coffee shop / café even though we were mesmerized by the books… (thankfully no cookies 🍪 were consumed… given we all know what happens when you give someone a cookie!)

Mesmerized by the myriad of books.

Patiently awaited our food…

But quickly we were back to the books…

This guy won 1st 🥇 place for the 1st grade Math Bowl. Now on to the big leagues - 4th grade math! ; ) .

….

Last but not least, don’t forget:

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Eats: Yun Nan Garden

2018-07-05T07:01:00.003-07:00

Thinking of the perfect 4th of July feast, but trying to come up with something a little different from the usual backyard BBQ delights? What about firecracker popcorn chicken and other spicy dishes from Yun Nan Garden? To entice your taste buds, here are our delicious & fiery eats from our family 4th of July dinner at the hot spot:

The restaurant storefront

Some fiery, spicy, yummy firecracker popcorn chicken

Birdseye view of our delish dishes at Yun Nan Garden

Side dishes

Hollow heart green veggie

Soup

Spicy shrimp dish

Spicy pork dish

While we enjoyed these on the 4th of July, these are a lovely set of dishes to heat up any day of the year. : )

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Eats: Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas

2018-04-29T22:33:00.001-07:00

Golden beers, sauerkraut, sausage, and shots of Jagermeister. These are rampant in Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas.

If you want to experience a taste of Germany as well as get a little wild, Hofbrauhaus brings out the college kid in all of us!

The menu includes all types of traditional German foods such as spaetzle and bratwurst, a variety of meats, soups, and sausages. If you can't decide, you may order the sausage tower that gives you a sampling that includes their famous pretzels and mustard. The pints of beer
are ever flowing!

Walking around, the waitresses wear traditional attire and for those more daring, a Jagermeister shot will buy you a free spanking... The sounds of the waitstaff's wooden paddles reverberate from the beer hall's high ceilings... If that is just a starter for you, the restaurant hosts chugging contests and has live bands in from Germany.

In this family-style restaurant, everyone can have a good time, whether you are daring or not, the food alone justifies the visit to Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas.

Danke!

Dane @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Trips: IJYSHENG Bakery Taipei

2017-09-12T19:51:00.003-07:00

Some days, especially when a storm is a brewing in the air, a cozy afternoon at home sounds like just the right thing. Add a two-year-old companion and naps to be reckoned with and you have a winner for such itinerary. One such day in Taipei, instead of having tea time out and about, I crafted a little tea time at home, complete with delicious treats from IJYSHENG bakery (sweet take away if you will). I've written about my love of Sunmerry bakery before, so here is a chance to showcase another delicious hot spot. Both Sunmerry and IJYSHENG were convenient bakeries crossed upon during my on my daily Taipei walkabouts. Their signs beckoned me daily, hehe.

(Above) Here are some of the beautiful desserts in the display case and on my tray while still at the bakery.

And now are all the at home, right before enjoying these goodies, trying to capture their essense...

(Above) Up close view of a light, smooth strawberry mousse.

Little chocolate, pistachio and raspberry torte.

A mud cake complete with this cute mini flower pot!

A green tea bun filled with sweet red beans. Definitely a unique and delicious taste of Taiwan!

This was my favorite of the selections above.

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

*photographed while in Taipei, summer of 2017*

Lovely Las Vegas Trips: Goats Milk Delivery Taipei

2017-07-24T20:48:00.002-07:00

Prior to our month long trip to Taiwan, we had to research the availability of goats milk on the island. Given our littlest one tolerates goats milk better than cows milk we needed to make sure we could purchase goats milk easily. Looking online, I was able to come up with a website, in Chinese, that offered goats milk. Not sure on the credibility or logistics of securing milk with this company, I checked with the owners of the flat we were to be renting. They explained this was a well-know goats milk home delivery service in Taiwan amd that we could start and stop service easily at anytime. In addition, we could adjust the daily quantity needed simply, too (one isn't locked into a certain quantity which is helpful if you are not certain how many bottles will be needed to satisfy the usual goats milk needed... given the different container size and potential differing needs while abroad... I was a little unsure at first how to precisely gauge our need so definitely just estimated).

Here is our external gate / door for our apartment complex, with our goats milk boxes adorning it.

And inside - insulation for the glass goat milk bottles.

A must for hot and humid summer days in Taipei.

Using this service has been wonderful! At the beginning of the service, insulated boxes were placed on the exterior community gate of our apartment building. Each box can hold two of the glass goats milk bottles (each contains about 180 mL total). We have three bottles delivered daily (each bottle is about 30 NT (yuan) or $1 USD). We ordered white milk delivered cold but they cam deliver chocilate milk and warm milk, etc. So the order is certainly customizable.

On Saturdays, we received our Saturday + Sunday order (thus six bottles total) since this company does not delivery on Sundays.

Our double Sunday delivery!

As for quality, I give 5 gold stars out of 5 gold stars. Each morning the milk arrived in a timely fashion amd was always cold and always the classic / standard white milk we ordered (no order mix ups were experienced). Plus, our little one enjoyed it greatly. The first few days we did need to add a little chocolate powder to encourage greater consumption, however, after the first few days he was drinking his normal amount of plain white milk without needing to add anything. I think that is simply due to slight variations in milk taste in different regions amd nations. Kids can get used to their milk at home and sense a slight difference elswehere and need a little time to adapt.

Interested in goats milk delivery in Taiwan? Here is the link to home goats milk company we used - their business website / where you can place an order. Happy drinking!

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

For more goodness from Taipei, check out:

IJYSHENG Bakery
Sunmerry Bakery
Din Tai Fung
Paradise Dynasty
Gracehome Rental Apartment

Lovely Las Vegas Travels: Cassie Secondhand Fashion Brand, Taipei, Taiwan

2017-07-13T02:21:00.003-07:00

I had walked past Cassie Cassie Secondhand Fashion Brand with much intrigue before making my way inside (since I always walked passed it in the early AM before it had opened). Being a big fan of secondhand / thrift store shopping in Las Vegas (Buffalo Exchange, Catholic Charities, Faith Lutheran thrift store, Savers, Goodwill, all the great children consignment stores!), I enjoy checking out the thrift store scene in other locals, especially while abroad (a favorite shirt and two pants of mine came from a Goodwill in Oslo, Norway! 🇳🇴) So it was an exciting prospect to visit a shop in Taipei, Taiwan, Yongkang Jie area.

Walking down the narrow staircase to the B1 (basement 1) level store, I saw many cute bags and shoes before getting a view of the main store area. Packed inside the larger B1 space was an amazing assortment and variety of clothes (women's, men's & children's), shoes, bags and homestuff.

Having a preschooler who is only wanting to wear long sleeves shirts and long pants while in Taipei (during the hot and humid summer) ... whereas I had only packed one long sleeve shirt for him, more kid sized long sleeved shirts were on my shopping wishlist. Thankfully I found two perfect shirts for my little alternate weather fashionista. I didn't really pay attention to the brands until we arrived home and was surprised to discover them to be Janie and Jack for the button down (same brand as the fancy and super adorable shop at the District in lovely Henderson, Nevada) and the Gap (for the cute vintage vibe boxing logo long sleeve shirt).

I also came away with a cute necklace and a fun cacti linen tank top for me. : )

Another lovely aspect of this shop (in addition to the green goodness of it offering a wonderful assortment of previously used items) was the friendly shopkeeper. She was very kind and made a connection with my two year old, even gifting him a little toy race car. ❤️ We learned from her that this shop has been open for 15 years. We plan to return to browse the rows and perhaps come away with other " new to us" treasures.

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas: Southern Nevada Organizations I Donate To

2017-06-15T20:10:00.001-07:00

Work and family life seem to fill my days (does every agree that the days are packed and the weeks go fast?), so finding extra time to volunteer isn't as easy as it once was. Thus, since I am not donating time much anymore, I try to donate funds to different organizations and causes as things come to my attention (for me, a much more quick and efficient way to support great philanthropic companies and causes). Here are the local // Southern Nevada organizations I have donated to during the period of November 2016 through May 2017:

Kindness lawn art at Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican - Siena campus.

Photo by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

* Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation
* Nevada Public Radio (KNPR)
* Vegas PBS - Public Broadcasting Station
* Southern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross
* The Shade Tree (monetary donation and the Hero Walk)
* Three Square Food Bank
* Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) - while the other donations were of money, this is through donations of clothing and household items (these are conveniently picked up at ones home)

Additional donations I have made outside of Nevada include these organizations that don't have a locate branch to contribute to:

* Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP)
* North Dakota State University (NDSU) Rexall Club Scholarship
* North Dakota State University (NDSU) Health Professions Sudro Society Fund

What are your favorite places to donate to in Southern Nevada or elsewhere? Or to volunteer your time with? So many wonderful causes, so little time! Please do share.

With lots of love,

Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Greenland Supermarket, Korean

2017-06-06T19:23:00.003-07:00

Here is the cool facade of Greenland Supermarket, a store filled with Korean food and other wonderful finds. (6850 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89146 // cross street of Rainbow).

Inside there is a wonderful assortment of foodstuff. Love the Korean text on everything!

These Shin black instant noodle packs are one of my hubby's essential fast food favorites.

Rice, lots and lots of rice.

Products for beauty too!

And there is an independent bakery inside. And other food kiosks, too. Yum, oh, yum.

Here are some of the things we purchased on this trip:

Doraemon's yummy buns (red bean filled pancakes).

Pororo chopsticks!

And it didn't take long for us to make use of the yummy buns, with Doraemon visiting and all.

Last but not least, some adult treats of

YAMAMOTOYAMA Genmai Cha Green Tea with Roasted Rice.

Love, love, love the earthiness, the heartiness of the flavor.

And a beautiful and delicious bottle of Korean plum wine.

With lots of love from

Jules

All photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Recess Italian Ice & Dessert

2017-06-04T13:22:00.005-07:00

We finally made our way to Recess Italian Ice & Dessert shop. With all those uber-irrestible fish cone ice cream cameos on Instagram, what were we waiting for?

See Recess nestled between these two restaurants (Kuisine ni Lorraine and Good Fella)?
Address: Crossroads Plaza, Ste 104, 5035 S Fort Apache Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89148

And here we are inching a little closer, full of more and more anticipation as we approach the door.

See, we are already swooning with love as we *kinda* patiently await our sweet treats. Hehe. ; )

Likin' this Ways to My Heart instructional on the wall:

Lots of ogling of yumminess as people wait for their desserts.

Aren't the colorful spoons and mason-style jars cute?

And look at this rainbow delight of colors to choose from!

Here is our creation #1. Creamsicle... menu has it has vanilla custard with orange Italian ice however when we arrived late in the afternoon, vanilla custard was all gone for the day so we got to choose between chocolate or green tea. My little one obviously (as per below) made the choice of chocolate ... plus requested the special add-on of squiggly wiggly gummy worms.

This Recess in Session sign is so perfect with summer break just around the corner!

Are our brains *and hearts* already on recess?

We went with the medium size as evidenced by below (the blue hue on the hands of the model here are a mishaps with paint in the AM - undiluted paints that my guys found... and which they lovingly painted allover each other ... and that got all over our tiles... fun story... the paint finally came out that evening with a crazy amount of scrubbing).

Creation #2 is the almond joy with chocolate custard, coconut Italian ice, and with almonds, coconut and chocolate sauce adding flavor on top.

Moral of this Memorial Day weekend story.

As soon as possible, go grab some delicious Italian ice / creamy custard combinations (AKA: "eat right" by your heart & soul) and feel amazing. The yummy end (until we return, again).

With lots of love from Las Vegas,

Jules

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Kids: IKEA Restaurant Kids Dining

2017-05-21T08:11:00.001-07:00

The first time I visited IKEA was in Oslo, Norway, right before I was to head off on my flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. I was in awe of the giant store, filled with much loveliness, whilst my Norwegian roommate picked up needed student apartment goodies. As it was also the reason I accidentally arrived to the airport late... it hold an additionally special place in my heart because as I was late, my standard economy class college kid seat had been taken and thus, the kind Oslo airport staff upgraded me to first class for my flight to Iceland. Super Wow, no? Mange tusen takk, for sure.

Driving up to the Las Vegas IKEA campus, is a lovely little drive. Do you agree?

Mountain views surround the Scandinavian store.

With one of my little ones with, our first stop (naturally) was to get some Swedish food.

The Swedish waffler, were snatched up by little hands as we were paying for the plates. And also in route to the little children dinning area. Hehe. Am I the only parent this happens too?

My children are part animal, I think. Little hungry bears, for sure.

Here is the Swedish American breakfast. Love the Swedish pancakes (crepe-like!) The jam was strawberry if I recall reading the menu correctly... why not some lingonberry, too?

That would be a nice addition.

Here is the Swedish waffle plate, sans the third waffle that was the first thing to begin to be devoured by my little one, as we made our way just yards away to the cute kids eating station.

A nice Viking roar for the Swedish waffler.

I remember eating many delicious waffler on visits to Norwegian homes, with whip cream and strawberries. Norwegian (Norsk) waffler, naturally.

Here is the super cute kids hang out spot at the IKEA restaurant. Love that there is a video playing and some fun games for the children to play with before, after, or during snack / meal time.

And the view. I really am gaga over the view from this IKEA restaurant dining area.

Can you tell that I love mountains so much?

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Kids: Faiss Park

2017-05-21T07:46:00.001-07:00

We were invited by close friends to a little picnic gathering at Faiss Park, which is near Wet N' Wild on the westside of town, and also close by IKEA, Southern Hills Hospital and Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican - San Martin campus.

It was our first time at this lovely Las Vegas park and we were pleasantly surprised. Right from the get go, the mountain view from the parking lot was a nice scene.

As for the park itself, there were many fun places to climb, hide, run, and play. And many children, too. Our group of little ones joined with another crew of little ones and created some games together as they ran between the two main place stations at the park.

It was a little daunting keeping track of our children as they ran and played in the different areas of the two jungle gym settings at Faiss. But they definitely had fun, and we adults got in some exercise trying to keep up with them, hehe.

And the nearby mountains, made for a lovely settings to have a play date!

Here are more images of some of the play options at this park.

And some of the great views surrounding the park.

Wilbur & Theresa Faiss Park

7025 S Fort Apache Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89178

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Freed's Bakery Flower Pot Cake

2017-05-21T07:03:00.003-07:00

Freed's Bakery, located near the hospital Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican - Siena campus. Address: 9815 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89183.

This is a Las Vegas classic. It was established in 1959 and has been voted Best Bakery in the Las Vegas valley for 30 years (impressive, non?)

Walking inside, your senses are already on overload, not sure where to look...

For this particular visit I was simply picking up a flowerpot cake I had pre-ordered online in preparations for Mother's Day (thought it would be an indulgent, lovely surprise for my mum). Apparently, it was a super busy weekend for Freed's Bakery because they not only had Mother's Day orders but also UNLV graduation sweets to prepare as well. I believe the kind employee who assisted me mentioned 200 cakes or so had been created for this weekend!

So here is the flower pot cake! What do you think? This was the first photo of it, taken in my car. Hoping it would survive the drive back home, I wanted to capture an image of it in case any cake catastrophe occurred before setting it out for the family gathering.

A closer view of the top of this creative and beautiful flower topped cake! The leaves were edible, as was the message card. And one of three of the flowers also seemed to be edible.

Here is a close up of the actual pot. And take a peak at the dirt filling the pot (cake crumbles!)

I also adore the Freed's medallion that adorned the pot.

Check out my Instagram @lovelylasvegas to peak inside the deconstructed cake. And little hands that couldn't wait during the mimi cake photo session and were sneaking a pinch of the cake, hehe.

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Makers & Finders

2017-04-25T18:24:00.002-07:00

After taking part in the Shade Tree Hero fundraiser walk in Downtown Las Vegas, my superhero party and I made our way to Makers & Finders. Having heard many good things about this hot spot, I was excited to finally step foot inside this restaurant.

My eyes and mind were immediately drawn to the eclectic cool interior. Check out those Grecian-inspired tiles at the bar and the fun, artistic signs, paintings, and statements on the walls and ceiling.

Vegas Viking Bear was super excited... can't you tell by that smile?

Another angle to check out the art on the walls and the fun chandelier.

Okay, amongst our party of five, including one two-year old with the appetite of a teenager and Vegas Viking Bear, here is what we ordered:

Muesli, yoghurt and berries.

Crispy French fries.

Latin hash.

Chilaquiles.

Mexican spice latte.

London fog.

Veggie bagel.

Coconut turmeric latte.

Now here is a remote view of the cool terrace dining scene... lovely, no?

A delightful dining experience. Looking forward to returning and trying more on the menu.

Photos by Jules @ Lovely Las Vegas

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*Magisk*. Your artwork is appropriately named Seven Magic Mountains.

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Lovely Las Vegas Food: Recess Italian Ice & Dessert

Lovely Las Vegas Kids: IKEA Restaurant Kids Dining

Lovely Las Vegas Kids: Faiss Park

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Freed's Bakery Flower Pot Cake

Lovely Las Vegas Food: Makers & Finders

Magisk. Your artwork is appropriately named Seven Magic Mountains.