After a fantastic weekend filled with perfect weather and loved ones, I realize I have much to be thankful for. I am in love with just about everything around me and things are looking smashing. Except for the fact that my birthday is just over four months away (and it’s a milestone bday).

I will once again be MIA for the next few days. Tomorrow is my very last day of work as I start a new chapter of my career. But before I get into the new work groove, I will be spending a little time at a lake house and taking a road trip to Milwaukee for my cousin Jenny’s wedding. Labor Day weekend is looking G-double-O-D-good.

Change is good. Life is good. It’s all good.

P.S. If you frequent Little Italy and have not yet taken a trip to Michaelangelo’s, you are missing out. I can safely say that I consumed the best pasta I have ever had in my life. Try the black truffle stuffed Sacchetti with black truffle cream sauce. You will not be disappointed.

 

Where in the world does time go? Lots of things have happened in the past couple weeks, but I will refrain from compiling a list of the most recent events — my life isn’t that exciting.

And speaking of events, there are many more great things happening through October in CLE. Hopefully this outstanding weather we have been experiencing will continue for weeks to come.

In the meantime, if you are looking for additional Labor Day weekend plans, a new family-friendly event is taking place in Cleveland’s MidTown District. Jakprints printing company will be hosting the Jak of all Trades Fest on Saturday, September 3rd from 12pm to 7pm.

Event festivities include live bands, a street-course style skate park, popular local food trucks, pop-up stores, a live art installation, beer garden and much more.

In addition to the festival, a charity raffle benefitting MidTown Cleveland Incorporated and Community Greenhouse Partners will take place with prizes including an HP TouchPad.

The festival is open to the public, but attendees must RSVP by Sunday, August 28th. For more information, visit jakprints.com/joat.

 

I am pretty sure I need to see a doctor. I have not been to one in probably 6+ years and I am pretty sure there are multiple things wrong with me. However, all of these self diagnosed concerns may simply be symptoms of seasonal allergies. Either way, I need to get something scheduled to see if I need surgery, drugs, therapy or all of the above.

I also may be recovering from this past weekend, which included the 20th annual Krusty’s Summer Sauce Camp at Whiskey Island. After a Friday night out at Bar Cento, Krusty’s on Saturday and a 5:00am triathlon on Sunday, I suppose one might feel a tad overworked. Next year I am going to try and get the CLE Triathlon moved to a non-Krusty’s weekend, but somehow I don’t see that happening.

After a very fun weekend, I only managed to get a couple photos but at least Metromix was there to capture a fantastic group shot. Why is it always so difficult to take a couple pictures. Oh wait, because my Droid Incredible has no battery life!

 

good thing this was taken before we were all drenched in sweat.

This one brings a smile to my face, because this may be the first time plum has sang karoeke in front of anyone! Thank you, Lakewood Village Tavern.

 

they were getting really into it.

Here’s to Tuesday. May all your tacos be crunchy.

Apparently time got away from me once again. I was planning on submitting a video application to the Cleveland City Living Awards contest, but my potential videographer/editor and I never joined forces. However, you can view and vote for your favorite entry HERE.

I know iheartcleveland enjoys Doc Harrill’s video, but my vote has to go to Seth Hrbek. While both of these entries include original song, I found myself giggling uncontrollably while listening to Seth’s “I love you Cleveland!” lyrics. In regards to the LOL factor, the “butterflies on my shoulder, I beg your pardon” line was the icing on the cake.

You only have until this Thursday, August 4th to vote!