On My Block

Tamiami Orchid Festival

2012-01-26T07:40:00.000-08:00

Where: Dade County Fair Expo Center, 10901 Coral Way, Miami, Fl 33165
What: Tamiami International Orchid Festival
Why: International and national orchids for sale, orchid crafts and supplies, free lectures/classes.
Bling ($): $9 per adult, cash only, and children under 12 are free.
Days: Jan. 28 (10 am-8 pm) & 29 (10 am-6 pm).

If you need more info please visit the website here.

South Beach Dachshund Winterfest

2012-01-20T05:59:00.000-08:00

Listen up dog lovers! It's time for the yearly South Beach weiner dog festival. All dogs are welcomed but expect tons of weiners to be walkin' around.

Where: Between 11 and 12 street on Ocean Drive. If lost follow the barking!
When: Sat, Jan 21 12:00-2:00 p.m.
What: Fun activities like contest,play area, and fortune telling for weiners and their owners.
Why: Both owners and pets will enjoy socializing with others as well as the beautiful SoBe weather.

For more info, visit the website HERE.

Food Trucks are back in ML!

2011-09-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

The food trucks are back at the Miami Lakes Auto Mall!

Where: 1660 NW 57 Ave. Miami Lakes, Fl 33014
When: Sept 9, 5:30-10:00 pm
Why: Great food and a talent show, too! First prize wins $1,000!
Who: Everyone and their mom will be at this event.

If you've gone to the last two events held at this location you know its a great time for the community to come together or people watch. So bring out your chairs and coolers and enjoy food from over 30 food trucks. Go prepared by looking up menus on the new food truck app. If you have a smart phone go to the app store and under search, type FTT and download the food truck tracker app filled with menus and pics.

See you all there!

* Make sure to stop by the Sugar Yummy Mama truck and try her "sticky lips" dessert. It is DEE-LICIOUS!

Miami Lakes Food Truck Event

2011-06-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

What: Food Trucks visit Miami Lakes
Where: Miami Lakes Auto Mall, 16600 NW 57th Avenue Miami Lakes, Florida 33014
When: Friday, June 3 from 5:30-10 p.m.
Why: Find out what the food truck craze is all about and get Mike Lowell's autograph!
Why not(just for fun): Running into a bunch of people you know and rather not see.

For more info visit the website HERE.

See you there!

Amelia Earhart Biking Improvements

2011-03-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

We received this in the mail yesterday and wanted to share it with you all.

What: Meeting to discuss improvements of the mountain bike trails
Where: The Earhart Hall at the Farm Village in Amelia Earhart Park
When: 3/24/11, from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

For those of you who enjoy the trails and wish for improvements this is the time to state your opinion. Entrance to the park is free M-F.

For more info call 305-755-7811.

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market

2011-02-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

Listen up fishermen, divers, and boaters the Islamorada Nauticaul Flea Market is this weekend, Feb. 26 & 27 at Founders Park. Get great deals on boats & parts, snorkeling/diving equipment, fishing gear, etc. Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Free parking and free shuttle service is provided at the Coral Shores High School. Do it to avoid traffic!

We went last year and snagged good deals on snorkeling equipment.

For more information on the flea market, click here.

Art in the Park

2011-02-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

Coral Gables hosting Art in the Park February 4th @ 7p.m. with Ketchy Shuby's, and our 2 fav's Xperimento & Suenalo in concert. Food, art, and drinks are also available.

For more information, click here.

WTF Moment of the Day!

2011-02-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

Freakkkky!

Spotted on 49 street. Beauty school drop out?

Picture of the Week

2010-10-13T19:54:00.001-07:00

We've been really busy, overwhelmed with school and work load that we haven't had much time for updating On My Block. We are hoping things slow down soon so we can return to regularly scheduled programming. In the meantime, enjoy this view from "Stiltsville." It is almost like a dream in the middle of the ocean.

Picture of the Week

2010-09-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Cortona, Italy

Italy, how I miss your beauty.

Picture of the Week

2010-09-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Beautiful weather for a day out on the boat. The view was amazing!

Picture of the Week

2010-09-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

A School Project - Ryan Adams - Wonderwall

2010-09-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

I found this school project video on youtube depicting an unfortunate love story. The Wonderwall song originally sang by Oasis is covered by Ryan Adams. It's one of my favorite covers ever.

This one is for you.

Picture Of The Week

2010-08-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

Mickey Mouse pancakes...yummy.

Picture Of The Week

2010-08-17T08:37:00.001-07:00

Sunset in Key Largo at Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill.

The Raconteurs "Steady, As She Goes"

2010-08-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

Chill Out With Some Ice Cream

2010-08-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

Grab a friend, coworker, whoever and head to Coldstone for this great deal.

2 Like it size ice cream cups with 1 mix-in topping for just $5! Expires 8/31/10.

For coupon, click here.

Thanks to wsvn for the coupon which we spotted the advertisement at!

Picture Of The Week

2010-08-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

Ewww! This was eating our garden plants but not anymore.

The Conch House Review

2010-08-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

Where to even begin with this review… Upon hearing of the Key Largo Food and Wine Festival we got excited to attend an event, and The Conch House stood out to us for several reasons. First, we frequent Key Largo always driving by the restaurant and always mentioning we must eat there someday. Second, the place is your Mom and Pop looking cozy restaurant and it’s this charm that drew our attention to it. If you aren’t paying attention you might miss it as it’s hidden behind some trees and all that’s visible from the road is some outside seating. The restaurant is located on MM 100.2 in a pink house, with a wraparound porch that provides seating both inside or out. At night the tiki torches are lit up which accent the surrounding garden, giving it a tropical feel.

So we make our reservations two weeks in advanced at 8 p.m. to attend the event called Sweet Dreams Dessert & Wine Buffet. As we await the date to attend, our excitement continues to grow especially after looking at the pictures of the dessert on the flyer. The flyer on the Key Largo Food and Wine Festival says desserts to be served are, dark chocolate torte, panna cotta with fresh berries, apple walnut tart, key lime bars, and peach crepes with 3 wines Donnafugata Ben Rye, Banfi Rosa Regale, and Campbells Rutherglen Tokay. Yet the Conch House website mentions they will be serving 5 wines instead of 3. I’m no wine connoisseur, so none of this meant anything to me but I was excited for my guy and I to try something different and romantic.

By the time we arrive it was 10 minutes passed our reservation time and we go up to the hostess to give her our information. Never once does she look at her reservation list to make sure I am who I say I am, nor does she ask if we're there for the event or dinner. She then proceeds to tell us that they're running a bit late but it’ll only take a few minutes and to have a seat in their courtyard. We don’t mention anything, we are fine in waiting a few minutes but mention to each other how can this happen if we have reservations, we shouldn’t have to wait. Nonetheless we take a few pictures and admire its charm while we wait. As we are waiting to be seated we see that the hostess preps up a table but other people are waiting as well so we aren’t sure if it’s our table or not. Then she calls us over from where she is standing which is a good 10 feet away and asks from afar with tone, “Are you ready?” Wait, what? Am I ready? Because I’m waiting on you to set up my table. So are you ready? However, we don’t mention anything and presume she’s a bad hostess with a bad attitude. We walk up to her when she notices us standing next to her waiting for her to walk us over to our table, but instead she motions with her hand towards a table and says in a bad tone, “It’s over there.” Very impolite and with attitude. And motioning towards a table instead of walking us over…who does that? I get better hostess service at Chili’s on 49 street!

Still, we try to brush it off. Our waitress comes to our table, introduces herself, and we tell her we are there for the event. She asks if we’ve received wristbands to wear for the event and we say no. No one mentioned it before. Perhaps it was the hostess job? That would explain it. The waitress explains how the buffet works and goes to find us some wristbands. When she comes back she’s empty handed and says they are trying to find us wristbands. Unorganized much. Yet she still tells us to go inside to the buffet and explain to the women handing out wine/dessert the issue with the wrist band. Why should we have to explain that to her if its not our problem? By this point we are already getting fed up with the bad and unorganized service.

We go inside and the room is very small, which gives it its cozy feel, however made it feel very claustrophobic. In fact, there were only a few tables inside and the space to move around in is very uncomfortable. The buffet was placed on a small table with no signs of the names of dessert/wine, so the guest had no idea of what things were. We explain to the lady serving the food the issue with the wristband (after she asked us) but also explain it was our first time and if it could be explained how it worked. She just started off by telling us what people normally like to start off with first, then cuts the conversation to ask the gentleman in front of me something who had already been served. Finally giving me her undivided attention she serves me this sorry piece of chocolate cake that looks like a brownie I make at home, with a small glass of the wine. And there were only 3 wines featured instead of 5 like The Conch House website stated.

The size of the dessert's and wine were a disappointment, especially for a whole $18.00 per person. Let alone the horrible service and how unorganized they were. As a matter of fact they can’t even get their time correct. The website says it was from 7-9 p.m., yet the food and wine website says it’s from 7-10p.m. and so did a sign at the restaurant.

It was a huge disappointment, and next time we won’t trade charm over service. Nor will we be returning to the Conch House anytime soon. We know this review was awfully long but we wouldn’t take our time to do it if we didn’t feel other people should know what horrible, bad attitude, and unorganized service was given to us.

Picture Of The Week

2010-08-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

Downtown area by The Intercontinental Hotel.

2 Cones for $5

2010-07-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

Take some time to enjoy some delicious Coldstone ice cream, or cool off from the 100 degrees weather with this coupon. Receive 2 cones for $5. Coupon is valid until 8/7/10.

Thanks to wsvn for the coupon.

Picture Of The Week

2010-07-27T08:20:00.000-07:00

Titled, Fireworks.

Your Hialeah Moment

2010-07-21T10:44:00.000-07:00

"I DID IT"

We love it when we spot personalized license plates. We aren't sure what to make of this only we are left with the urge to ask, did what?

Picture of the Week

2010-07-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Free Entry To State Parks

2010-07-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

When: This Saturday, July 17.
$: FREE!
Where: State Parks in Miami include Oleta River State Park, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, and The Barnacle Historic State Park.
Why: Enjoy the outdoors and blistering heat.

Last time admission to a state park was free, we headed to Oleta River and enjoyed kayaking. It was a great way to exercise and experience the outdoors. Rental is $25.00 for an hour and a half tandum kayak, or $18.00 for single. For more rates click here.

Always stay hydrated!

Picture of the Week

2010-07-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

Taken at Anne's Beach in Key Largo, FL
Mile Marker 73

Picture of the Week

2010-07-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

Creepy!

Picture of the Week

2010-06-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Aloha!

Lady GaGa Poker Face Acoustic

2010-06-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

We like how Lady Gaga can be very unique. Enjoy this acoustic fun version of Poker Face.

Your Hialeah Moment

2010-06-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

We looked around the car for a number to see if this was the name of a business but found nothing. So this is just a "Classic Touch of Miami." Super classy.

Picture of the Week

2010-06-23T10:32:00.001-07:00

Taken at Shark Valley.

The Black Keys - Tighten Up

2010-06-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

We are loving the unique sound of The Black Keys. These guys are going to blow up very soon, so look out for their name. Enjoy.

Flowers In Italy

2010-06-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

On a trip to Italy, back in March, we snapped pictures of these beautiful flowers we do not get to enjoy in SoFlo. Absolutely stunning! More pics of Italy to come...

I took a peak into the garden of this house and it was something out of a movie. Every corner was filled with flowers.

Flowers in Cortona, Isola Maggiore, and Pasignano.

Picture of the Week

2010-06-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Florida Marlins game.

The Morning Benders - "Excuses"

2010-06-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

We wanted to share this nice funky number with you all. Enjoy!

Your Hialeah Moment

2010-06-08T12:13:00.001-07:00

"Healpy Sa ads" for sale!

Should read "Healthy Salads." If the letters aren't available, don't replace it with another letter where it'll throw off the word completely. You gotta love La Vacita.

Left Foot Out & Shake It All About

2010-06-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

True story. On Memorial Day weekend we were heading down toward Key Largo and saw this woman driving with her left foot out the window at 60 mph on the Turnpike. This is something we see to much around here and don't understand how comfortable one is behind the wheel to place there leg up and rest it on the window. As another driver on the road, we think this is unsafe.

How comfortable do you feel behind the wheel to do this?

Picture of the Week

2010-06-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sunset at Marco Island.

National Parks Free Weekends

2010-06-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend June 5-6 enjoy a free weekend outdoors by heading out to a National Park near you. The National Park Service is waiving its entrance fee this Saturday and Sunday. If you can't make it this weekend, no worries because other free dates are ahead. Free entrance dates include Aug 14-15, Sept. 25, and Nov. 11.

For a listing of the parks included in Florida visit the website here. Just click on '100 national parks' where you will find the states & parks listed. Some of the parks included in Florida are the Everglades National Park (Shark Valley) and Dry Tortugas National Park.

Picture of the Week

2010-05-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Sunflower, photo by me.

Listen Up Boaters

2010-05-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Happening this weekend is the Miami Marine Flea Market at Watson Island. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. This is your chance to buy boat accessories, watersport goods,pre-owned boats, fishing equipment, and much more for LOW prices! Tickets are $7($2 OFF if you buy online @ the website), & children under 10 get in free.

For more information on the event and directions, please refer to the website, located right HERE.

Have a fabulous weekend!

Daughtry - Poker Face

2010-05-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

We were browsing some Lady Gaga videos on youtube and came across this cover of Lady Gaga's, Poker Face by Daughtry. We love it, hope you enjoy!

Picture of the Week

2010-05-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

Afrobeta - "Nighttime"

2010-05-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

We are bringing you a bit of Miami funk from Miami's own Afrobeta. We caught them a few months back at Van Dyke Cafe and fell in love with their beats and catchy lyrics. Cuci, the lead singer and her partner in crime, Tony have made performances at Ultra and you can catch them in gigs around town. We assure you it is a fun time!

Picture of the Week

2010-04-26T11:17:00.001-07:00

Taken at the Key Largo Flea Market a few months back.

Take Advantage of Deals

2010-04-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

Listen up you DQ Blizzard lovers. April 19-25 is Customer Appreciation Week and DQ wants to give you a Blizzard for 25 cents with the purchase of one at regular price. A delish deal to cool down from the sol caliente. For the delish deal click here.

On April 15, bring a travel mug into a Starbucks near you and receive a free brewed coffee. For more info, go to starbucks.com

The National Park Service is back with free dates to National Parks all over the U.S. This freebie runs from April 17-25, and also on Sept 25 and November 11. Last year we took advantage of this freebie to visit Shark Valley and absolutely loved it. For a listing of participating parks in Florida and other states, visit the link here.

Picture Of The Week

2010-04-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

Ladybug season.

Did you know ladybugs play dead when they feel threatened?

Picture Of The Week

2010-03-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

South Pointe Park in Miami Beach.

Your Hialeah Moment

2010-03-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

"Guy, Who Cares?" displayed on this Audi.

I'm not sure anyone cares, Guy!

Sites around SoBe

2010-03-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

At South Point Park riding the Makai beach cruiser.

Art displayed on the window of the Art Center/South Florida.

Green parrots on Lincoln Road

Funky batmobile. Believe it or not this bike was on sale for $700.00

It was a chilly day for some ice cream.

The renovated South Point Park on 1st street.

Picture Of The Week

2010-03-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Billboard leaving SoBe.
Make sure to catch Alice in Wonderland this Friday, March 5th.

Picture of the Week

2010-02-23T06:35:00.001-08:00

At the reopening of The Hialeah Race Track Park, back in Nov.

Your Hialeah Moment

2010-02-10T10:12:00.000-08:00

Follow the yellow arrow. (Spotted on 49 Street)
You think the arrow is big enough?

Coconut Grove Arts Festival

2010-02-09T11:48:00.000-08:00

Don't know what to do for the Valentine's Day weekend or simply want to avoid the restaurant crowds? Well then head out to the 47th CG Arts Festival this weekend. The festival runs from the 13-15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $10 per person. There will be live entertainment, over 300 artists, and plenty of food to satisfy all taste buds.

So head out and enjoy what is suppose to be a weekend of beautiful weather.

For more info on the Coconut Grove Festival and to purchase tickets on line click
here.

Picture Of The Week

2010-02-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

Deals and Events Around Town

2010-01-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

Events
Check out a movie at the Mayfair in the Grove. Little Miss Sunshine will be playing tomorrow night, Jan 22 at 7 p.m. Thanks to the Grapevine for the info.

Enjoy a good time and donate to those suffering from the latest tragedy in Haiti. Local performers will throw a concert Saturday and Sunday all to benefit Haiti. Performers participating include, Suenalo, Conjuntro Progresso, The Spam All Stars, Afrobeta, and many more. Event details HERE.

Freebies
Krispy Kreeme is offering 12 free doghnuts with the purchase of a dozen doghnuts. The free doghnuts are handed in a form of a Valentine's Day ticket, which are good until Feb. 14. Spread the yumminess! For more info, visit Miami On The Cheap

Don't know what to do with your old jeans? Then get to an Aeropostale and donate your gently worn jeans and receive 25% off a new pair of jeans. Get details
HERE!

SoBe Dachshund Winterfest

2010-01-19T08:23:00.000-08:00

The Dachshund Winter Festival is to take place this Saturday, Jan. 23 in SoBe from 12-2p.m, on Ocean and 11th. There will be activities for pups and owners. All pups are welcomed!

Attached is a flyer (in PDF format) with more information.
Dachshund Flyer

Also provided is the website.
Dachshund Fest

Picture Of The Week

2010-01-19T06:04:00.000-08:00

Picture Of The Week

2010-01-11T13:40:00.000-08:00

Unusual Sighting In Hialeah

2010-01-11T09:49:00.000-08:00

On this very cold morning at 7 a.m., a rare sighting in Hialeah. The roof of my car was filled with ice. When I scraped it off it looked like small chunks of snow.

For the past 2 weeks South Florida has seen temperatures drop to the low 30's with high's in the 50's, causing new record lows. This is the second longest cold streak The Sunshine State has experienced, which has caused concern for farmers and their crops. We hope our friends down in the Redlands are keeping warm!

Picture Of The Week

2010-01-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

Lighthouse in Key West, Fl

Hialeah Race Track

2009-12-28T13:13:00.000-08:00

We apologize for being late on this update but find it very important that we do so better later than never.

These are pictures taken at the re-opening of The Hialeah Race Track Park on Thanksgiving weekend. We were very eager to be back to this beautiful historical landmark which had been closed for 8 years. It was a historical day for the city of Hialeah and its people as the Miami Herald reported over 20,000 people attended. Let's hope that the city continues doing all that they can so that it remains open.

This woman dressed up like they use to back in the days. Lovely!

The flamingoes!

This little guy was just as curious as us.

The Hialeah High band performed in the courtyard and during the opening ceremony.

So beautiful but still needs a lot of renovating to go.

Posters of famous faces that once visited the track hang in the lobby area.

We look forward to the future of the track and hopefully next time we'll place a bet and win some cash. Please refer to the website for future schedules on racing and other news on the track.

Picture Of The Week

2009-12-28T11:08:00.000-08:00

Key Largo, FL

Picture Of The Week

2009-12-21T13:36:00.000-08:00

Picture Of The Week

2009-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

Enjoying some booz and popcorn at Zeke's, located on Lincoln Road Mall. Zeke's is a popular spot with both the locals and tourist which features a selection of over 200 beers from all over the world, each for just $4. It has a great social atmosphere, and is one of the best spots for "people watching".

Your Hialeah Moments

2009-12-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Hialeah.

Man driving with his foot out the window on 49 street. Just when I thought I had seen it all I see this dude and his cuban alligator white shoes. Yeah, you know you've seen them too.

Picture Of The Week

2009-12-07T13:17:00.000-08:00

Enjoying a nice afternoon lunch at Van Dyke Cafe, on Lincoln Road mall.

Picture Of The Week

2009-12-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Sunny Isles, cruisin around the bay.

A Day At The Harvest Festival

2009-11-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

The weekend before last (Nov. 21) we visited the Harvest Festival that took place at the Miami Dade Fair Expo. The event featured music, arts and crafts, independent vendors, food, and unique things that make for great Christmas gifts. Here are pictures from the event.

The event featured a few classical and vintage cars.

Lot's of country style ornaments.

A reminder of the days left to shop for the Holiday!

This antique lamp was worth $350.

These margaritaville signs were a hit. It seemed like everyone had purchased one.

Finally we approached our friends at The Nikki Bee Bowtique. Plenty of bows on sale for the little cuties and a huge success for the bowtique.

Bow holders by Nikki Bee Bowtique.

Even Santa joined in on the fun by listening to children grant their holiday gift wish.

Because there was no funnel cake I had to settle for an elephant ear and may I add it doesn't compare. Funnel cakes taste way better.

The goodies we picked up at Nikkie Bee Bowtique.

Picture Of The Week

2009-11-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

Busy Weekend

2009-11-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

Lots going on this weekend, not enough time. Please refer to SFDB for the Weekend Widget located on the right hand side of the page. You will see highlighted in gray "What To Do This Weekend" with links to events and info. Hope you guys enjoy what the city is offering!

Our post on the Harvest Festival is featured in the widget. Thanks for the link love!

Cancun Grill Spices Up Your Dinner

2009-11-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

Now until 1/19/10 Cancun Grill is offering coupons to 3 different locations in South Florida. Specials include, FREE 2 house margaritas, free dessert, or appetizer with the purchase of 2 adult entrees. Also, a free entree with the purhcase of 1 adult entree. Coupons are 1 per table.

For coupons click here.

Thanks to a pretty lady for the tip!

Vampire seekers flock to Forks

2009-11-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

With the release of Twilights New Moon this week, we are very excited and glad we don't have to wait any longer to see the outcome of the sequel. We wanted to share with you a piece that was on The Today Show based on the town of Forks and how its handling its new popularity. The town of Forks is where Twilight is set.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Harvest Festival

2009-11-12T07:48:00.000-08:00

What: Harvest Festival
Where: Miami Dade Fair Expo
When: Nov. 21-22
$: Early birds are $12 at the door, $10 in advance on line & $8 general admission. Parking is FREE!
Why: Come out and enjoy arts and crafts, activities, live music, food samples, and antique cars.

Click here for the Harvest Festival’s website and for a $2 coupon off adult admission.

Make sure if you attend to check out our friends at the Nikki Bee Bowtique exhibit. Things on display include plenty of cute bows of all occasions, for all ages. Nikki specializes in custom creations with samples available at the exhibit. Customers will also have the opportunity to place custom orders. This is the first time Nikki Bee Bowtique is a seller at the festival and is very excited to share her creations with the public. Let them know you heard about them from our blog. To check out what the Bowtique offers, visit the Nikki Bee Bowtique website, or search “Nikki Bee Bowtique” on Facebook.

MuteMath concert

2009-11-06T10:41:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night we headed to the MuteMath concert at Revolution and were very excited to see them yet again as we’ve seen them 3 times before. This time around we had new things to look forward to which were our VIP passes and finally watching them perform their new album, Armistice. It was also a special night for El Novio as it was his first MuteMath concert.

With our VIP passes we were let in half an hour before general admission and were treated to pizza, cold drinks, first look at the band’s merchandise, and a spot in front of the stage. AsTallAsLions were the opening band. These guys did a great job with a very animated performance full of facial expressions, grooving, and eclectic songs.

When Mutemath came out performing “The Nerve” the crowd went wild! This was the craziest crowd we’ve ever experienced at one of their concerts, with moshing, crowd surfing, sing alongs, and energetic fans. This band is known for their great live performance and yet again they did not disappoint. The set list included both new and old songs. Lead singer, Paul Meany was just as much fun as he was in the past, jumping and flipping over his keyboard, intriguing the crowd with what is known as The Atari, and jumping into the crowd with the microphone stand and all. Drummer Darren King always kills it on the drums. This time around, King had fans hold up a drum while he stood on top of it, and jumped into the crowd to crowd surf. It was one amazing concert with an amazing band. I took tons of pictures but here the best ones.

Bass player and lead singer of AsTallAsLions.

Paul Meany, lead singer of MM and his keytar. <3

Drummer Darren with the headphones scotch taped around his face and chin.

Bass player, Roy.

Guitar player, Greg.

The Atari

When Meany went into the crowd with the microphone. Twas awesome!

Drummer, Darren King on his drum while fans hold it up before he crowd surfs onto fans.

Picture of the Week

2009-11-03T05:32:00.000-08:00

Disney's Fort Wilderness

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

Every year we carve a pumpkin for Halloween, and this year we chose this design. Halloween is our favorite holiday! Hope everyone has a great and safe trick or treat.

Happy Halloween!

Your Hialeah Moment

2009-10-29T08:33:00.001-07:00

This Hialeah moment is more so for the city of Opa Locka, but can apply to neighboring cities (like Hialeah) and state wide, as well.The sign is located on Lejeune and E 68 st, before The Opa Locka Flea Market. We spotted the sign just this week, however the law was passed back in 2007. The sign warns those that are caught wearing "saggy pants" on city grounds will be issued a ticket for revealing briefs, boxers, or skin. Although we agree that what some call this a "fashion" look is nothing but trashy and distatsteful, we also believe it violates the rights of citizens and is no reason to throw anyone in jail.

Dear John

2009-10-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

In the previous blog we mentioned that the Nicholas Sparks book titled, Dear John was being turned into a film and in theatres in 2010. Well, a movie trailer has just been released, featuring Channing Tatum ('G.I. Joe', 'Stepup') and Amanda Seyfried ('Mean Girls', 'Mamma Mia!'). We are happy with the trailer results and look forward to the film. Boys and girls, get the tissue out when you go see this one. The movie is set to be released on Feb. 5, 2010.

The 2009 National Book Festival

2009-10-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago we headed for DC to attend the 9th annual National Book Festival to meet our favorite author, Nicholas Sparks, and for his book signing.

For those of you who haven’t heard of Nicholas Sparks before, he is the writer and New York Times best seller of the books, Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, and Nights in Rodanthe. He’s written over a dozen books with most of them featured on the New York Times best seller, and four of his books (those mentioned) are already movie motion pictures, while two more are set for release in 2010, and another is in production. His books are on fictional love stories that revolve around the drama or tragedy of two individuals with characters ranging from ages that of 17-50. The stories and movies are both beautiful and sad, enough to bring up tears in even the toughest soul.

The book festival which is sponsored by the Library of Congress is held on the National Mall located between the National Monument and The Capital. Every year, a list of authors from different categories are put and brought together for book signing and a 30 minute speech or reading. The event is free and open to the public. This year’s list included over 70 author’s with big names like, Judy Blume, Lois Lowry, James Patterson, Paula Deen, Nicholas Sparks, and John Irving. This year's festival drew a crowd of over 130,000 people.

Nicholas Sparks drew a big crowd with long lines, and luckily we arrived early enough to be in the first line. We have to admit, we were disappointed in Sparks for only signing his latest book, The Last Song, meaning if you didn’t have it before arriving to the festival you had to buy it at the book sale pavilion. In this case it was us and other upset fans. No word on whether that was Sparks decision or not, but to whoever it was, it was a greedy move. Some authors signed their past works and up to 2 books per person.

One side facing The Capital.

The other side facing The National Monument.

Plenty of activities and give aways for children, like this board to color on.

The lines for book signing.

Some folks were in line 3 hours before Sparks scheduled book signing. A few read in line to make the time go by faster.

Nicholas Sparks signing books.

Paula Deen - "Hey Ya'llll!"

Paula Deen's hubby.

Chipotle Freebie and Quiznos Coupon

2009-10-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

A new Mexican restaurant is coming to Hialeah. The former location of Roberto's Tacos has now been transformed into Chipotle Mexican Grill. Although we've never been to a Chiptole, we are eager for the new edition to 49 street.

With its grand opening being tomorrow, you can be sure that freebies will be handed out. Thanks to Miami on the Cheap for the heads up. Freebies will be handed out from 5-8 p.m. and include tacos, salad, burrito, etc. Let us know how tasty your experience goes.

Also from Miami FL on the Cheap, coupons for Quiznos that are good until Oct. 26.

Picture of the Week

2009-10-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

Taken at the Abraham Lincoln Monument in Washington, D.C.

Your Hialeah Moment

2009-09-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this very strange ice cream van on the street. It stood out for the "Doctors Toy Store." I don't know what type of toy's they have in their but it was just odd. And it got better once I got closer...

The license plate read, "LOV BOX." Yeah, you read that right! Super creepy in a child molester way, not the love for ice cream.

I don't know what type of luvin goes on in it, but I wouldn't let my child get near this ice cream truck.

Einstein Bagels coupon

2009-09-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Einstein Bagels is offering 25% off any purchase, now until 9/29. Hurry up as the offer is only good for another week! Click here for the coupon.

Pollo Tropical Coupons

2009-09-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

So we've been MIA for some time now due to a load of school work and are still trying to adjust to this new crazy schedule.

But I wanted to share with all of you some delicioso coupons for Pollo Tropical. The coupons don't expire until Dec. 31 and include coupons for family meals, and 1/4 chicken meals.

Thanks to miami Fl on the cheap for the tip!

Cheap Movies

2009-09-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

Want to watch a movie for a cheap price? Head on over to the Cobb Theaters on Red Road, located behind the Chili's and Lowes.

For a limited time offer, the theatre is offering all ticket prices for $6! That's a whole savings of $3 or more from a regular movie theatre admission that can range from $9 - $10 per adult. The theatre features stadium seating, wide food menu, digital sound, and a lobby with several arcade games.

No word on why the change of price, but we are guessing the recession has something to do with it.

And for those of you that are skeptical on the location of the theatre, it is not a bad neighborhood as it may appear to some. We have seen lots of movies here and have never witnessed anything bad occur. The parking lot is well lit with security and a police officer on dutie.

Address is: 17355 NW 59th Avenue (57th Ave.), Miami Lakes, Fl 33015. Phone: 305-231-5226

Picture of the Week

2009-08-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

The Presets - "If I Know You"

2009-08-31T18:00:00.000-07:00

Picture of the Week

2009-08-24T07:10:00.000-07:00

Your Hialeah Moment

2009-08-24T06:50:00.000-07:00

Picture of the Week

2009-08-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Mute Math Listening Party

2009-08-17T14:03:00.001-07:00

As mentioned in previous blogs, Mute Math is one of our favorite bands for their energetic performances, use of instruments, personality, uniqueness, kindness, and music (of course!). The much anticipated sophomore album, titled Armistice, is set for release on August 18, 2009. The band starts touring for the new album on August 18, as well.

Mute math came up with a unique idea for hardcore fans, or non fans, to hear the album before its actual release date. Giving people the option of purchasing a concert ticket for its regular price, or purchasing a VIP Package ticket for $30 more which includes a lithograph of the Armistice cover, t-shirt, ticket to the concert (city of choice) with first in line VIP passes, album listening party invite, a digital copy of the c.d., and bonus tracks not on the c.d. And not mentioned until after, those who purchased the VIP package are now part of the official Mute Math fan club.

I was one of the lucky fans who had the privilege to attend the listening party, experiencing a personal and intimate album release event like no other before. Upon arrival, we spotted the Armistice tour bus, and all 7 of us were let in by the friendly staff that proceeded with questions about our knowledge of the band, their music, attendance to concerts, and so forth. Prior to listening to Armistice, the tracks were listed on a TV screen with the album cover art, and we were handed a comment/review sheet for jotting down our thoughts while listening. Later, our “first impressions” would be featured on mutemath.com along with pictures of those who attended.

Coming into this, I expected something way different, maybe more so of the old MM but was blown away by the new MM. They’ve definitely experimented and broaden their musical talents with a high energetic sound full of different instruments and mature lyrics that showcase their abilities beautifully. Armistice has so many sounds that of which include, rock, funk, electro, indie, new wave, anything and everything they thought of, they did. All of the songs on the album take you to a whole other world. If these guys deliver the new songs with the same energy they have in past concerts, it is set to be quite the show. They just don’t disappoint. Some of the band members even joined fans at some of the listening parties; unfortunately they were flying back from a show in Japan during ours, and couldn’t attend (bummer!).

Our VIP MMLP goodies found in the MuteMath bag.

The tour bus (outside) loaded with art from the album cover.

To view the track listings and listen to a 30 second sample of each song on Armistice, listen here, via amazon.

Remember the album drops tomorrow, Aug. 18 and if you want to check out their fun and energetic concerts, purchase a ticket to Revolution in Ft.Lauderdale on Nov. 4.

Picture of the Week

2009-08-11T13:24:00.001-07:00

Rainbow over Key Largo, Fl

Picture of the Week

2009-08-05T13:23:00.000-07:00

Amelia Earhart park

Picture of the Week

2009-07-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

3 years back, I took this picture when I visited the island of St. John, U.S.V.I. This picture stands out from the rest of the batch for its striking beauty. I was so spell binded by the beauty of the islands, that I promised myself if life allows me to, I will one day own a vacation home here. Although there is still lots to accomplish before then, I still have hope for this dream. I always revisit this picture not only for its beauty but also for the hope that one day I will return.

Shark Valley, Take II

2009-07-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

We've been meaning to update on our free Shark Valley adventure for some time now but have been too busy for posting. As previously mentioned, we visited Shark Valley for free (June 18), thanks to the National Park Service free weekends. The NPS announced earlier this year that during the summer they would conduct “free park weekends” to more than 100 parks around America. August 15-16 are the last dates to take advantage of this freebie so plan now.

If you take a look at our title for this blog post, we have added the Take II because this is our second trip to Shark Valley. Back in February (see Feb. post for pics), we visited the park but never reached the final point since we overestimated our skills and preparedness. Completing Shark Valley includes, close encounters to wildlife animals, a 15 mile loop of the park, and a spectacular view from an observation tower that offers a panoramic view of the Everglades. Exploring this park can be done either on bike (they provide rentals or bring your own), on a tram tour with a tour guide ($20 p/person), or on foot (OUCH!). This time, we came prepared with our bike cruisers, sun screen, lunch, and plenty of water for our adventure.

An Anhinga

Great Blue Heron

A fruit which I did not get the name of.

Some of our alligator sightings in all sizes.

The observation tower smack in the middle of the Everglades.

A poster at the top of the tower depicting Shark River and life for the Miccosukee Indians in the 1920's.

The long road back to the beginning.

The "river of grass" - without a building in site - goes on for miles and miles.

We also spotted a Red Bellied Turtle, an Everglades Racer, and Florida Gar but were not quick enough to reach for the camera. Also noted, we spotted more gators back in February than this time around. The heat outside was HOT, and we figured this is why the NPS has free weekends during the summer. But if you go prepared with plenty of fluids and early morning before the unbearable afternoon heat, then Shark Valley is a fun adventure and accomplishment. Pictures only say so much, so go out and experience it for yourself!

Picture of the Week

2009-07-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

Can you guess where this was taken?

Picture of the Week

2009-07-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

Ostrich at Robert Is Here.

Free Slurpee at 7-11

2009-07-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to SFDB and Miami On The Cheap for this freebie.

Go grab a free 7.11 ounce slurpee at 7 Eleven in part of their 82 B-day. The giveaway starts tomorrow (7/11) and is only tomorrow.

Yummy!

Quiznos Coupon

2009-06-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Where: Participating Quizno's
Deal: Buy a sub and a drink and get one FREE of equal or greater value OR get a $1 off a regular sub OR $2 off a large sub.
Date: Valid now until July 11.

Click for Coupon!!