Friday Finds!

Celebrating the first full day of Summer with Make Music Day at Wilkeson Pointe!

A good crowd came out for the Buffalo Niagara Partnership's Annual Report meeting at Larkinville on Wednesday morning. Larkinville is one of the prettiest places to be in the summer

A behind the scenes tour of the Curtis Hotel was quite fun! The beautiful walls from the original building are stunning. This place is going to be a pretty cool place to go in the Fall

Rooftop views in downtown Buffalo got me smiling from ear to ear

I love this!

Dancing with Wolves

   Friday evening myself and Pro Zoo Board Officers attended the Buffalo Zoo's Catillion. This years theme was Dancing with Wolves. The Catillion is the Buffalo Zoo's Black Tie Gala put on by the Buffalo Zoological Society's Board of Directors. The evening was quite nice, the drinks and food were good and the laughs and entertainment post program were even better.

I haven't attended a Zoo event that I wasn't volunteering or working at in a long time, so it was really nice to be back on the other side for one night. The Buffalo Zoo is one of the best places in town, if you ask me. To be able to support it and help raise awareness about the animals and their mission are why I volunteer there . Below are some pictures of the fun night out.

-B

{Dancing}

{Group Shot}

Fun at Buffalo's Outer Harbor - Architects of Air

Its Memorial Day weekend and with everyone thinking of their plans - BBQ's, yard work, etc. one fun thing to do is spend a few hours or the whole day at the Outer Harbor. It' opening weekend and there is much to do! Grab a bite to eat and drink at the Consumer Beverages "The Pointe" beer garden, rent kayaks from the Longboard Paddle Co. Water rentals aren't your thing? grab a bike from are bike rental stand and hit up the beautiful trails along the water.

Or stop by the Architects of Air - a luminarium that uses sunlight to create beautiful colors inside an inflatable exhibit. This traveling art piece has come from Nottingham, England and travels the world. It will be at Wilkeson Pointe thru Monday so if you have a morning, afternoon or evening free come check out all the new and exciting things taking place at the Outer Harbor!

-B

See a couple of my photos inside the luminarium below:

Lumagination

Saturday my niece and I attended the last day of Lumagination at the Botanical Gardens. A fun and {in some areas} interactive light show held inside the beautiful gardens. To my surprise, everyone wanted to see the lights because there was a packed house full of people of all ages walking through the greenhouses and a consistent line that was out the door. It was a lot of fun and I would say my favorite part was seeing my niece ask questions about the plants and trying to find the colorful caterpillars throughout each room.

-B

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

{Interactive floor lights}

"Join Our Journey" My Trip to the Aquarium of Niagara

The Aquarium of Niagara - one of Niagara Falls, NY's gems. While I personally feel like the Aquarium doesn't get enough recognition from its neighboring suburbs, it has so, SO much to offer! A short 30 minute drive from the City of Buffalo, their are multiple sea mammal shows, talks with the keepers and feedings that take place throughout the day and are free with admission.

Last week I was lucky enough to sit down and snag some time with Ilene Strober the Director of Development and Marketing at the Aquarium, she told me about their Capital Campaign and fun things taking place, so I won't waste any time and will jump right into it.

"Join Our Journey"  - is a $3.2 million capital campaign featuring an interactive exhibit with classroom, smart boards and a beautiful, one of a kind home for the Humboldt Penguins.  The Aquarium of Niagara is above code in everything, but in order to receive accreditation with the AZA {Association of Zoos and Aquariums} a new exhibit needs to be built for the Humboldt Penguins. This new exhibit will be an exhibit for people of all ages.

Currently the Aquarium is $1 million short of their goal - so they are calling on the community for support. The Aquarium has visitors from all over Niagara County, Erie County, Western Pennsylvania, Ohio and Southern Ontario. A non -profit that does so much for the community, now will the community help them?

One thing that opened my eyes during my interview with Ilene is how big the Aquarium is on conservation, not only here at home, but all over the world - from local lakes and rivers to ocean life. We play a huge part in these animals lives and habitats and we have to learn to do a better job on sustainability.

{These Humboldt penguins are the cutest!}

While walking through the building I learned a lot from talking with Ilene. There are 23 new/refurbished exhibits on hand. Penguins have their own personalities and have strong bonds with one another- they come out in pairs. All of the sea lions, including seals that are at the Aquarium of Niagara are rescued and non-releasable into the wild. The shows that are held for the guests actually help the trainers teach them things and to help them learn enrichment.

{Ripple - a fun interactive video game for kids to play when they visit}

Some other fun facts I learned from my visit -Octopus only live for 3-5 year, use their brain and are very smart. Sturgeon fish have a 100 year life span, but are endangered because they are hunted before they are sexually mature, because of this there is no reproducing taking place - going back to the whole sustainability topic I mentioned earlier.  We can throw off the ecosystem if we have to much of one thing.

{Trainers Hallie and Colleen with sea lions Kia and Arie}

{Sea lions are extremely curious and playful}

And how about this - the Aquarium of Niagara has one of the most poisonous and deadly fish there is - a lion fish. If you ask me they look pretty cool though!

What other fun things can you do at the Aquarium, do you ask? {obviously call ahead to make an appointment for these activities}

Public Touch Tank, Meet a Seal, Behind the Scenes Tour {there is so much more to the animals exhibits that the public doesn't see}, Humboldt Penguin Interactive Program, the list goes on. For more info on any of these activities click here. And for a complete list of upcoming events go here . SEALED with a Kiss is coming up on Valentine's Day weekend and that looks to be a fun event to take part in.

A few summers ago I took my niece to feed the seals and she had such a fun time and thought it was the coolest thing. For a couple of dollars she got to experience something not a lot of people say they do. The Aquarium of Niagara is such a fun place to go, all year round.

If you want to help be a part of the journey contact Ilene to see how you can help.

-B

{All photos: Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Exploring the Winter Celebration event

{On stage at Sheas}

Last week my Dad and I attended Explore Buffalo's Winter Celebration at Sheas. One week after Sheas celebrated their 90th anniversary, making it a great venue to host an event. There was much to celebrate. Auctions filled with lots of Buffalo art and history, voting on new Explore Buffalo tours for the 2016 year and behind the scenes tours of the theater were offered during the night making it a pretty nice night out.

Here are some of my pictures from the night.

-B

{Lights, camera, action}

{Balcony seating}

A Nice Way to Watch A Film

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Did you know that when Shea's opened in 1926 it was actually built to show silent films?!?  Sunday my Mom and I attended the silent film Sherlock Holmes there. When I first got the tickets I thought it was a play, but then my Mom was quick to point out that it was a silent film {note to myself to read better} ...like no words just a pianist playing scores throughout the films 90 minutes. I was a little skeptical, I'm not going to lie. I was thinking I would want to leave halfway through the film, but it was actually amazing! It was like I experienced something from back in time - a black and white film with no words, just music. It was a nice change of scenery and something different. I highly recommend attending a short film at Shea's if you ever can. It makes for a nice indoor activity to do when the weather isn't so nice out outside.

{A brief welcome and introduction before the film started}

Oh and the best part - it was free! A free film in a beautiful building that celebrated their 90th anniversary this weekend. That's pretty cool Buffalo. Oh and for those who like popcorn and candy to munch on when watching a movie - Shea's had their concession stands open, selling sweet treats {the popcorn and twizzlers cost $8 - that's cheaper than a movie ticket now a days}. Just putting things in perspective, its nice to have a beautiful venue like this offer nice {casual} events like this.

For a calendar of events taking place at Shea's click here

-B

Marienthal Country Inn - A Home Away from Home in Eden, NY

Driving 30 minutes south of the City of Buffalo I made my way to Eden, NY the other day to visit with Louise from Marienthal Country Inn. A quaint bed and breakfast offering a lot more than just a cozy place to rest and relax. Formerly a Church, the B&B was purchased in 2007 and opened in 2008 with renovations taking place in the Rectory, Covenant and Church. Open all year round, there are a lot of things you can do while you're there. From relaxing massages and reflexology classes to water color classes every Monday and pottery classes are offered during the summer months, they offer girls get away packages and yoga classes as well.

{A short, but peaceful drive to Eden}

The first thing on the list was a tour of the facility. Each room was a different theme making it a one of a kind place. Louise and her husband took old pieces from the Church (pews, stained glass windows, etc.) and used them as sink stands, windows, etc. As things started to evolve, everything fell in to place. With the B&B pretty busy, Marienthal Country Inn has expanded their services, offering a unique place for people to host special events - Weddings, Bridal and Baby showers and Dinner Theater events such as Tony & Tina's Wedding, a Murder Mystery event and up next a Medieval Feast next Spring. There is a lot Louise and her team can do.

{Each room has something special about it}

Living in Eden her whole life, its not far from anything and you have a beautiful landscape. When I sat down I asked her what made her want to own a B&B and she said she has always thought about it, having a place where she could host artwork shops where people could stay. When the Church closed it was a whirlwind of events and everything just fell into place. Its a little community and she is happy to be a part of it. Her and her husband have hosted people from all over the world and as they continue to expand on improvements to the buildings they are also looking to expand on events in the future - offering a place for workshops and corporate retreats.

If you're looking to support local business and need a gift for someone for the Holiday, a gift certificate to the Marienthal Inn is a great idea. Not far from Buffalo and offering a unique experience, everyone is sure to have a wonderful time.

I have never been or stayed at a B&B before, but I can tell you Marienthal is special - it isn't your average place to stay and getaway for a weekend, Louise and her team make sure to offer unique activities to make the guests happy, making them want to come back. Instead of leaving an old Church building empty, Louise saw an opportunity to make something great out of a sad situation and she did an awesome job!

Until next time..

-B

A Hidden Gem in Newfane

Part of my adventure on Saturday with Kate and Brian was a stop to Gordie Harper's Bazaar. A place I came across on social media and it landed on my bucket list of places to go. A restaurant {serving breakfast until 2pm}, lunch and dinner. With an added touch of shopping antiques and flea market finds, making it a fun place to visit. On a beautiful day you can sit outside on the patio and enjoy the pretty flowers, fresh air and good conversation.

The food we had was delicious - I had the Chicken in the Grass sandwich, Kate had a Veggie Burger and Brian had the Sirloin Steak Sandwich.  Gordie's seems to be a favorite with the locals in Newfane and if you're coming in from the City of Buffalo you can't find anything like this {at least I haven't yet} "back home."

-B

{Patio seating}

{A classic record player}

{Flea Market Finds}

A Night to Remember

{A walk down memory lane - all 30 years}

A few weeks ago I celebrated my 30th birthday and all I really wanted was my friends and family that mean the most to me, all in the same room for just a few hours. Now a days its hard to get everyone together, so for people to share a Saturday night with me was really special. The party took place at the Foundry on Elmwood. I was a little nervous because I was receiving mixed reviews on the service and food, so I didn't know what to expect, but the night turned out to be everything I wanted {except that whole crying part, that was thanks to my friends}. Don, who was my contact went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with everything. I couldn't have asked for a better person to work with.

Before I knew it the night was over, but the memories and the smiles will be with me for a long, long time. So to everyone who came, words can't describe how thankful I am to have you in my life. xo

-B

{Group Shot}

{DIY Just a Blonde in Buffalo Candy Table - thank you Buffalo Cake Pops for the cookies!}

{Little favors with special messages in the bottle for people to take home}

{FYI this is such a simple and easy favor to make, check out my upcoming post later the week on how to create them}

Shea's

Shea's Performing Art Center - a beautiful place where magic happens. Not only have great plays come and gone from this venue, but there have been a handful of events that have taken place there as well. I'm excited to head there tonight with my Dad for the Phantom of the Opera show. Its been a few years since I've last seen a play there, so I'm looking forward to it. The venue has beautiful detailed décor through out and in a sense even though we aren't in NYC it reminds me of seeing plays on Broadway. -B

A Place to Be A Kid

A place where anyone can be a kid, the Buffalo Science Museum. Each year there is always at least a handful of events that draw me in. Today, its Messfest! Science is messy and today you can get ooey and gooey and have fun doing it! Have a great Sunday!

-B

The Foundry!

A place I fell in love with recently has been the Foundry on Elmwood. While it has received mixed reviews I'm having a party there on Saturday and I'm hoping it all goes well. What drew me in for this event space was not only the rustic with industrial style décor, but the courtyard that guests have the ability to access. More to come on this place after my event.

-B

Flying Tigers

One of my favorite memories is when I was a little girl, I remember my godfather taking me to Flying Tigers for my birthday. I would be so excited to go. We would always get a table by the window and see the planes getting ready to take off. I remember trying to listen to the pilots over the headset as they were getting ready to leave. While Flying Tigers is no longer open whenever I drive over by Aero Drive, it takes me back to a childhood memory I'll always enjoyed.

-B

Emerson School of Hospitality

A couple weeks ago I had the chance to attend a school tour and presentation at Emerson School of Hospitality {the school is located on Chippewa St. in Buffalo}. I've walked past the building multiple times, but never really gave much thought to it, but after this tour, this school is pretty amazing!

With a multiple level building this school is an academic, fitness and culinary center. Emerson sure does impress. Not only do students go through all of their general studies, they have a chance to take classes in the culinary arts. Learning how to cook, bake and prep all kinds of foods.

Emerson offers a café style area called Emerson commons and that is open on school days from 7:30-10am {breakfast} and 11:15-1:30pm {lunch}, making it a great spot for people who work downtown. Emerson also offers banquets and catering and makes wedding cakes, along with a variety of other fine desserts.

For someone {like me} who just thought the school, was like any old ordinary school, its not. Its pretty awesome and its pretty cool that kids have that type of opportunity in this area.

For more info on Emerson click here.

-B

{One of the multiple kitchens that you can see as you walk by on Chippewa St.}

{Emerson Commons, open to the public on school days}

{Car view}

M&T Bank First Friday's at Albright Knox

The first Friday of every month M&T Bank and the Albright Knox offer First Fridays. Free admission on the first floor to the public. From 10am-10pm you can walk around and experience some of the amazing art the gallery has on display. If you want to walk around upper levels there is an additional fee.

At the beginning of the month I took the day off and spent it with my niece. For an almost four year old this was a great event to take her too. While she thought the Lucas Samaras, Reflections, aka the "Mirror Room" was the best, her attention span started to run out after about 30 minutes. With it being a beautiful day we walked on the outside grounds and took some nice photos.

Prior to this visit, it has been about 5 years since I was last inside the Art Gallery for a leisurely experience, so it was nice to walk around and experience it with a kid who has a vivid imagination.

I highly encourage anyone to take part in such a great event that takes place the First Friday of every month. The next one coming up is on Friday, November 7, 2014.

-B

{Snapping photos inside the Mirror Room}

{If you look at this for more than a couple seconds you get dizzy, or at least I did}

{One of my favorites on display}

{Anyone want to play some tic tac toe}

Angola, NY

 {Check out their line up for Labor Day weekend here. }

To keep with the beach continuation, my second favorite beach in Western New York is Mickey Rats. Just down the road from Bennett Beach in Angola, Mickey Rats has been around since the 1980's and is a great place to go for some sun, swimming and sand during the day and live music and drinks by the water at night.

-B

A Food Truck Rodeo with a little Buffalo History

Taking place the first Wednesday of the month, a handful of Buffalo food trucks lined up outside the Buffalo History Museum's parking lot for the annual Food Truck Rodeo. Its a great opportunity to come out and have dinner with your family, friends or significant others and enjoy the History Museum for free. The next one taking place is on Wednesday, September 3 from 5-8pm. Bring the kids for free face painting, grab a blanket or folding chairs and have a picnic. For more details click here.

-B

Lovely Lewiston

Every time I go to Lewiston, I'm simply amazed at the beauty there, from Artpark to Old Fort Niagara it is simply amazing, especially in the summer months. My friend Lauren and I decided to spend a Saturday afternoon just walking around and taking in that "small" town feel. We first stopped at Artpark where we were able to be "big kids" and make some clay pottery for free. We then walked around and saw some of the sculpture artwork that was in the park.

After Artpark we hit up the ever so popular Silo to grab some lunch and ice cream, from there we walked down by the water and saw the Whirlpool Jet Boat tours that take place by Water St. Landing. We didn't have enough time to take a jet boat tour, but it is on my list of things to do. We drove through the Main St. and just looked at shops and restaurants that filled the street. It was a relaxing afternoon just exploring the "hidden treasures" that are only minutes away. Have you ever been to Lewiston? What are some of your favorites places to go when you're there?

 -B

#ArtparkWed

I don't make my way to Lewiston that often, but this past week my friend Lauren and I caught the Sara Bareilles concert for their Coors Light Wednesday concert series. You can't go wrong, for general admission, tickets were $11 and you we got to see a pretty talented artist. Artpark is such a pretty place, for those who love nature, music and being outdoors I suggest taking the pretty drive up to Niagara county and spending a day exploring and seeing what its all about.

-B

{ Sheltering ourselves from the rain }

{ Coors Light Wednesdays #cheers }

{ The pretty rainbow on our way home }