Friday fun!

Hello Friday! Oh how I’ve missed you since last Friday. :) It’s been too too long.

I have so many things on this weekends schedule and can’t wait to share some of my ideas with each of you! I think the onset of cooler temps and back to school has made me yearn to switch over my closet from bright & cheery summer to warm & cozy fall...but as all Clevelanders know....we MUST resist until at least mid-September. So while I wait....how about what is fun going on in our fearless city this weekend?

> Feel like taking a drive? In love with Max and the rest of the Where the Wild Things cast? Drive to downtown Kent as they show the movie on an outdoor screen...starts at dusk, should be fun for all! FREE

> There are LOTS of bike rides this weekend. Feel like hanging with a bunch of graphic designers? Head to the towpath this Saturday for AIGA’s ride. Feel like filling your belly with warm grilled cheese? Don’t miss out on Melt’s first fundraising ride this Sunday. If farms & barns are your thing visit the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park this Sunday!

> I saw the first slightly disturbing movie, The Girl with the Dragon tattoo...but sorta like a car wreck where you can’t look away, I am very intrigued to see the second part film in the three part series. The Girl Who Played With Fire, showing at Cedar Lee.

> Get your last few wears of those summer sundresses, and if you are looking for a few extra summer something's, stop by Room Service for their 60% off summer apparel sale!

On a side note, I can’t tell you how much I LOVE living in Lakewood and would like to thank Travel + Leisure Magazine for the HUGE shout out! “Lakewood : Coolest Suburb Worth a Visit!

And last...for those of you that do find yourself at the mall this weekend stocking up on back to school clothes...pick up this short for yourself. EVERYONE in Cleveland should have one. In fact I think that as a tax payer, we should just get one free in our mail some evening, now wouldn't that be amazing? If you can’t wait for GAP to maybe send you one as a good Cleveland citizen...then make sure to pick yours up soon. I hear they are flying off the shelves.... Love yOUR city!!!

Ride to Melt (eastside!) (08/28)

Sunday, August 29th, 2010

Ever eaten at Melt and then after felt yucky and was angry at yourself for eating every last drop of the best “wakin bacon” and fries around? Wouldn’t you feel better if you knew you had 13 miles to ride on your bike after to get yourself home? Here is your opportunity!

This Sunday Melt will host a “manual transportation event” from one Melt to the other. Starting at Melt West in Lakewood and making the trek across town to Melt East in Cleveland Heights, this is an opportunity to see our great city of Cleveland, raise money for two great arts organizations, and enjoy Melt Bar and Grilled.

The money raised will be divided between the Lakewood Arts Fest and Heights Arts in Cleveland Heights. Sign up and get a sponsorship form at either location. The more money you raise the more benefits you receive.

Raise $25-$49.99 = 25% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $50-$74.99 = 50% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $75-99.99 = 75% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $100 and over = 100% off sandwich and beverage

They will also raffle off a giant 7ft signed “East Side Invasion” poster that hung in our Cleveland Heights location’s windows during construction. Signed by artist John G and owner Matt Fish

BEGIN: Melt Lakewood - 14718 Detroit Avenue END: Melt Cleveland Heights - 13463 Cedar Road Begins @ 8:30am

A BIG "Taste of the Browns" DEAL

Hello Lovers of CLEV!

How was your weekend? Mine was sorta quiet but really nice. Sometimes, isn't it nice to just slow down, stay at home and enjoy the downtime of a relaxed weekend? I think so.

Don't get me wrong, I didn't stay in ALL weekend...I had attended a kick off weekend for the Junior League of Cleveland Members. This amazing group for women always inspire me to give back, strive for better and look to the future, very poignant to living in Cleveland, don't you think? If you are interested in learning more about the JLC, they are having an open forum, info session next Saturday morning at Joseph Beth booksellers for more information call 216.231.6300. I also enjoyed a peach pizza at Players and spent Sunday with fellow blogger Allison & pal Shannon wandering around Chargin Falls...a WONDERFUL weekend!

So what' the big deal you might ask??? Ever been to the Taste of the Browns? It's an evening on Monday, September 13th, where big hunky football players, mingle with area chefs all to support the Cleveland Food Bank. People come from miles around to grab a gourmet dinner as well as a few autographs from the Browns team members. I can't wait to go this year!!!

So, the deal is TWO THINGS...

THIS WEEK, August 23-26th you can purchase your Taste of the Browns tickets from the link below for $125 a $25 discount. www.clevelandfoodbank.org/heart

In addition to the sweet discount I have been given TWO TICKETS PLUS a TASTE OF THE BROWNS COOKBOOK to give away to one of my readers...so, let's have a little contest...tell me your favorite Cleveland Browns memory or fact and this Friday at 4:00 I will choose a winner at random....Good Luck, and happy week!

Summer weekend!

How did it get to August already? Weren't we just planning our afternoon trips to the beach? Or what we'd pack on our evening picnic? Well, not to worry, we still have all of August and most of September keep up warm and enjoying the Cleveland outdoors.

This weekend what are you doing? So many great area events it makes me wish I could be in two places at once.

This weekend, not too be missed...

> Artists from all over Ohio will meet to sell their work in Lakewood...check out the Grey Cardigan pop up shop!

> E.T lands at Huntington Beach, while Dorothy and the munchkins take over Playhouse Square.

> A memorial show to our dear Cleveland friend, Harvey Pekar at the Beachland Ballroom.

> Grab your bike and take an evening ice cream ride to your best neighborhood ice cream shop!

> Cheers on our area athletes at this years Cleveland Triathlon.

> I've been craving a crepe, a pot of french press and the Sunday morning paper in the city.

> A big street bash in the Warehouse District!

> Rent a kayak and paddle through the Rocky River to keep cool!

> How about a $5 Mojito to ring in the new week?

Well, whatever your weekend has in store for you, make sure you are happy, healthy and surrounded by those you love. Happy iheartcleveland weekend!

Family Day with the Browns (08-07)

Saturday, August 7th, 2010

The Browns will switch it up from its daily training camp practice schedule in Berea for a Brown team vs. White team scrimmage at Cleveland Browns Stadium THIS SATURDAY! Fans will also enjoy music, inflatables and numerous giveaways starting at 9:00 am on Tailgate Terrace, located outside the stadium on the east patio.

The scrimmage is free of charge and is a non-ticketed event. Gates open at 11:00 am. Parking is $5 per vehicle in the Port Authority Lots surrounding the stadium. Fans who arrive between 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. should enter through BrownsTown located on the north side of the Stadium and park in the North Port Authority lot.

For more information visit www.ClevelandBrowns.com.

Yo Yo Contest (7/31)

for more information visit www.ohioyoyo.com

Back to Basics!

Another weekend in Cleveland is upon us, and what fun! TGIF.

You guys know I am always up for a party, a soirée perhaps? But this weekend I am hoping to get back to summer basics. Throw on my flip flops, braid up my hair and take my bike out for a spin or two.

The beach seems like a perfect plan, or perhaps my city pool. If I’m in the mood to roll down my windows and drive out of the city a burger from the festival might be yummy. If I can get out of bed from all the summer fun, a bit of downward dog to LIVE music on Sunday followed by some tasty treats in Tremont.

There is always something fantastic to get yourself into in Cleveland...JUST DO IT!

welcome back Z!!!

Welcome back Z, we missed you! :)

Photo credit: Cavs.com

Cleveland Spynga

Do you like to sweat and cycle? Are you a yogi who enjoys a great stretch? There is a new studio in Coventry called Buddhaful Spin which incorporates both spinnng and yoga...it looks incredible.



I haven't personally been over to the studio yet, although it is on my to-do list. As an avid spinner and yoga lover, I am excited there is this new resource in Northeast Ohio. Explore their website, take a class, spin and stretch....Oooooommmmm.

Cavs (1/25)

It's CAVS time!

On Thursday we watched Lebron and Shaq crush Kobe. On Saturday we bit our nails as the final score totalled 100 to 99. Let's see what those Cavs can do tonight in Miami?



Game time is at 7:30. Tune in!

Yoga for foodies (2/17)

Wednesday, February 17th, 2009

Do you like to downward dog or happy baby? What about sprouts and goat cheese? Well, then I have a perfect evening out for you.



Join David Romanelli (chocolate & yoga originator) for an evening of yoga at the downtown hot spot, Greenhouse Tavern. After the class is over, float downstairs for a family feast of farm to table yummies.

I posted this early because spaces are filling up fast. David is an amazing teacher, has wonderful music selections and is light and fun in his teachings....and we all know how much we LOVE Chef Sawyers eggs & fries...wonder if that is good to eat after yoga? :)

2010 Cleveland "to-do"

Hello all!

Welcome back to iheartcleveland. Hope everyone had an amazing holiday season. I know I did. I am rested, relaxed and ready to rock and roll as we dive into this new year.

As I was thinking about what my first post of the year should be I started thinking about all the things I have always wanted to do, but somehow never have. Take a look at my list and feel free to let me know what your 2010 Cleveland resolutions are!



my cleveland "to-do-taste-see" 2010 resolutions list

Go to the Orchestra
I have been to Severance Hall for a gorgeous wedding once, but I have never seen the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra play. This year I want to experience the magic of the talented area musucians. Can't wait! In the meantime I may enjoy one of the free tours that are being offered on Sunday January 10th. For more information visit their website, reservations recommended.

Get to know Malleys
Ever wondered how they make the 3 foot Easter bunnies and the millions of luscious Buckeyes? This year I'd love to get a group of fellow choco-holics together for a trip to the 60,000 square feet of chocolate fantasy at the Malleys Chocolate Tour. The tour is self-guided and best of all it's free! Anyone interested?

Celebrate the Jump Back Ball
I've always heard the buzz but I've never attended the massive party explosion called the Jump Back Ball. This year I plan to don my feathers and sequins and celebrate Carnival (this years theme) with my fellow arts supporters. I hear tickets are going fast...so get yours today...then we can all party together!

Ghost Hunt
Ever since I've moved to North East Ohio over ten years ago, I've been tempted to take a walk through the old Ohio State Reformatory at Mansfield. For those of you who know me, I'm not one for blood or guts, but the idea of ghosts is a bit intriguing. Did you know you can go on a ghost hunt year round in Mansfield? Spooky!

Ride the path
I love to ride my bike. I love to ride my road bike down Lake Ave, fast. I love to tool around town in my Schwinn Cruiser with my sweet basket & coffee cup holder. I love to ride my mountain bike through the muddy metroparks in spring. This past fall a friend of mine and I got to sample parts of the towpath, this year, I would love to start on one end and make it all the way to the end...tackle the towpath! Time to look for a new helmet. :)

Get schooled in Beer
I've drank an Elliott Ness, I've snacked on a pub pretzel and recently I've enjoyed one too many Christmas Ales...but as an Ohio resident I feel I should have a better understanding of the happenings and beer types at or our world famous Great Lakes Brewing Co. I think this is the year I'll make it a point to attend a free brewery tour, a tasting or a brewmasters dinner to enhance my palette and enjoy those porters and pale ales to the fullest.

Spend the day at the fair
I post about it every year. Every August I crave funnel cakes and corn dogs. I dream of the biggests blueberry pie and adorable pot belly pigs. This year I promise myself I am going to spend an afternoon at the Cuyahoga County Fair. Perhaps I can get one of you to come with me...if you're up for it, perhaps we can even dress alike..everyone's doing it. :)

Get spooked at the Zoo
I don't have children so there really should be no real reason why I want to spend my afternoon navigating my way through the sea of strollers at the Cleveland Metroparks annual event...Boo at the Zoo. I don't know if I am drawn to the idea of elephants and monkeys in costume or an entire bag of candy corn that i can destroy as I watch the lions, tigers and bears devour their haunted treats. This year I really want to go to the fun alternative to average neighborhood haunting, who wouldn't want to go to an event with candy "Stations?"

Tour of Pasta
If you've ever been to the Westside Market on a saturday morning then you've seen the confetti colored Ohio City Pasta's whimsical little raviolis. Every time I go to buy some I have such a hard decision what flavor to choose...SO, this year I plan on working my way through the glass case and savoring each little pasta creation one flavor at a time. Perhaps a few a month..I'll keep you posted! Any recommendations which ones to start with?

Ride opening (12/04)

Friday, December 4th, 2009



ride. AN EXHIBITION OF CYCLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Spin is proud to present ride. AN EXHIBITION OF CYCLE PHOTOGRAPHY by RUSSELL LEE and featuring prints by GREY CARDIGAN. December 4th, 2009 thru January 2nd, 2010.

Opening reception Friday, December 4th, 6pm with award winning beer from Fathead's Brewery.

FREE yoga (12/5)

Saturday, December 5th, 2009

As an expression of gratitude to all of their students and the community… Inner Bliss Yoga Studio is delighted to offer a day of free yoga and more!!!

Come and enjoy one, two or more classes with your favorite teacher, bring friends! Come experience it for yourself!

GREAT Give Back Schedule of Classes
7:30-8:30 : HOT Powerful Flow with Shannon
9:00-10:00 : HOT Powerful Flow with Tammy, Dawn assisting
10:15-11:15 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Laura, Lanie assisting
11:30-12:30 : Powerful Flow with Lanie, ginny assisting
12:45-1:45 : Beginners Yoga with ginny
2:00-3:00 : Yoga Demonstration by your teachers!
3:15-4:15 : HOT Powerful Flow with Kristen
4:30- 5:30 : Powerful Flow with Kathy
5:45-6:45 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Jen, Kathy assisting

There is no pre-registration for classes on this day, just show up!

More Treats for YOU!
Lululemon Trunk Show from 10 am – 3 pm! (credit cards only, please)
Delicious Deals on Inner Bliss boutique threads!
Buy any class package and get a free class for a friend of your choice!

Tour. Hockey. Skate. (11/20)

Friday, November 20th, 2009

Create a memorable city night with the entire family...This sounds like so much fun! Sharpen your skates for a night at the Q. Get an exclusive tour of the Q, a ticket to watch the Lake Erie Monsters play, open skate after the game AND it's dollar dog night.



I may have to see if I can rearrange my plans for this one. It's not Rockefeller Square Ice Rink, but it I bet it would be quite the rush.

The ticket cost is $17 meet at 5:30 at Will Call (located by the Cavs team shop) for the tour.

Want the hook up? Call Scott Gordon to pay for your tickets by NOON on Thursday, November 19th. 216.420.2126. This event is brought to us by the CLeveland 20/30 Club.

Browns Rule!

November 19th through December 13th, 2009

Cleveland Public Theatre is proud to present Browns Rules by Eric Schmiedl Directed by Bill Hoffman Original songs written and composed by Hoffman and Schmiedl

Don't miss the world-premiere of this cabaret style musical by nationally recognized local playwright Eric Schmiedl. Browns Rules is both a send-up and a love-letter to The Cleveland Browns. Three performer musicians and the audience are on a mission - successfully name the 29 rules of being a Cleveland Browns Fan and the Browns will win the Superbowl in 2010.



Part vaudeville, part sideshow, part variety show Browns Rules is an interactive exploration of the relationship between Cleveland and our beloved football team. With a rock band on stage, three performers combine storytelling and drama as they rip apart myths, celebrate heroes, and try to understand what makes the Cleveland Browns so important to our culture. What was the All-America Football Conference and who destroyed it? How did Paul Brown inspire his famous 1949 all-star team? Art Modell, friend or foe? Who called "Red Right 88?" Who wrote the song "Bernie, Bernie?" Cleveland Browns Stadium, asset or financial disaster? These questions and more are examined as Browns Rules looks at our dear Brownies and the city that loves and hates them.

Showtimes: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00pm
Monday, November 30 at 7:00pm (Tickets only $10!)
Sunday, December 13 at 3:00pm (Browns have a bye week!)

Tickets: $30 Reserved Seating at Cabaret Table (includes corkage, reserved seats and tableside bar service during the show) | $24 General Admission | $22 Online Advance Purchase | $2 Discount for Students and Seniors | Special Thursday night pricing: $10 General Admission, $16 Cabaret Table Seating

Roller Girls (11/07)

Saturday, November 7th, 2009

Last night as I was on my third rep of shoulder presses at my neighborhood gym in walks this sprite of a woman. Covered from head to toe in vibrant colors, her coat covered in a mass of ornate patches, her hair pulled up under a cap she floated through the field of sweaty gym rats to discreetly distribute the little postcards.

As I completed my last rep, I swiftly made my way to the card stuck into the bulletin board...

It read “THIS Saturday, November 7th, CSU, Wolstein Center, Roller Derby, Black & Blue : WHIP IT GOOD! Team Black vs. Team Blue, going head to head for charity, Doors open at 5pm”



All I kept thinking was, “I’m so there.” Thanks little roller girl “sprite” You rock!

For more information visit burningriverrollergirls

Pumpkin Workout (10/24)

Saturday, October 24th, 2009

I thought this was a fun little way to end our week and welcome in the weekend.

Feeling frisky and trying to squeeze in a workout? Join Liz Donnelly, personal trainer and family fitness specialist as she gives you and your kids a sugar-burning, exhilarating workout with a PUMPKIN!!!



Bring your own "orange weight," workout with your pumpkin pall, and then be prepared to give your pumpkin friend a break with a special holiday craft.

10-11am. Lakewood Congregational Church Social Hall. 1375 West Clifton in Lakewood. To register call 440.623.0957

Preseason (10/16)

Friday, October 16th, 2009.

Looking for a good night in? A night on the couch with your soft chenille blanket? How about a night in with your local NBA Team?

Yes! Yes! Yes! This Friday, pop some microwave yumminess and head to your local glowing boob-tube for the Cleveland Cavaliers game against the San Antonio, Spurs.

King James, Shaq and Tony Parker will run around and shake their groove thing as they warm up for the NBA 2009-10 Basketball (Cleveland takes all) Season.



Tune in to Channel 5 (ABC) for the game...and don't forget...if you put some M&M's in your microwave popcorn while its still popping...it is salty and sweet goodness, guaranteed to bring our Cavs a big win!

Bike Rack Bash (10/01)

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

Hey all you "hipster wanna be's," you "courier boys," and those of us who just like a great spin around the city, don't miss this weeks unveiling of the Bike Rack at Cleveland Public Art.

The event stems from a call for ideas...30 artists from across Greater Cleveland submitted public art ideas for the facade of a new bike station planned for downtown Cleveland. The submissions were reviewed and winners were chosen by community stakeholders from the Gateway and East 4th Street neighborhood.



Join Cleveland Public Art on Thursday at 5:30pm, to view all the entries and see an installation by the winning artists, Scott Stibich and Mark A. Reigelman II. 1951 West 26th Street, Suite 101.

PLUS, the food is being catered by none other than the best in town...Gatherings Kitchen