It seems like every time Jake comes down to visit we always have the conundrum of what to eat for dinner. It used to be that we would instantly choose Outback and move on, but those days are in the rear view mirror. Not sure when it happened but we all grew out of the Cinnamon Oblivion phase. This past Saturday we went to church and then went to The Crow Bar and Kitchen in Corona del Mar. 

For the last couple of months we've been dying to try Red O a new restaurant at Fashion Island that opened up right where the old Coco's used to be. Sort of crazy to think that Coco's was ever there, but that's a story for a different day. We had been waiting for a good reason to go and this week seemed like a good one since I got a raise and my annual bonus this week, it was time to celebrate. 

This year Jenn and I decided that we would try to do our own Thanksgiving. It wasn't an easy decision but given the circumstances it was the right one. So the two novice chef's went out into the world, picked up some supplies and prepared what honestly was one of the best Thanksgiving meals I've ever had. 

Since coming back from China/Bali we have been super busy. The month of October is a literal blur. Rolling into November both Jenn and I decided we needed to get back to our Friday Night date night routine. So last weekend we bought a Travelzoo deal to The Ritz (walking distance from our apartment) and got tickets to Michael Canaugh at the Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa who was playing the best of Elton John. 

I cannot believe it was already three years ago that Jenn and I got married. Time sure does fly by. It has been the most amazing ride. I knew I was going to love being married but never realized it would be this great. 

To celebrate our three years of marriage (nearly nine together) we bought a TravelZoo to The Winery Restaurant in Tustin around five miles from where we live. The deal was for a five course tasting menu that was too highlight their menu. We had always wanted to try The Winery but never had the right occasion to go there and this seemed like the perfect opportunity.

Not every restaurant coupon is created equally that is for sure. A few weeks ago Jenn and I went to use our TravelZoo to a restaurant called Posch in Irvine near John Wayne Airport. From the pictures and the description we knew it was half night club half restaurant but it looked neat enough to warrant the $49 price tag for a three course meal with wine.