After a long day between lounging and working, it only seemed right to treat ourselves.

Lois and I pondered about what to do with our night. But then it struck us 'Ah ha, a warm hot chocolate is in order'...after all, it seemed to have gone from sunny to shivery within a couple of days in Edinburgh.

We rushed from the cold into a lovely little pub on the Royal Mile, shed off our coats and got comfy.

We ordered two hot chocolates, and an extra unexpected order of Sticky Toffee Pudding.

Whilst waiting, we were able to properly catch up and laugh about the week that had just past us.

A few photos were taken too as you can see...

Oh Lo!

But it was so worth the wait. The hot chocolate was so deliciously guilty and creamy, making it seem like a good thing the nights were getting colder.

The sticky toffee pudding was also delicious. Lois and I have been on a mission for the past year, to find the best sticky toffee pudding EVER. On a weekend away last year with our CU, we tasted an amazing one, and haven't quite found something so spectacular since, but this one came close. Now, it may be because we were deprived students last year and just glad to get gooey goodness, or it was actually THAT good...we may never know but its been a fun mission to say the least.

So if anyone has any suggestions of places to try, please let me know. We will not stop until we have found only the best.

I just want...one...more...bite...

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 We were feeling a little Italian last week, so to Zizzi's it was. I love the friendly feel it has...and of course the gorgeous food.

The Queensferry St restaurant has a modern feel to it thanks to David Galletly, who has artwork there inspired by the mysterious waters of the Firth of Forth.

 

So off we went. 

To start us off, we went for an 'Italian Bread Bucket', which was as it says on the tin (or bucket) - bread, baked fresh, and topped with olive oil and rosemary. With a little side order of balsamic vinegar as well.

 Then it was on to the main course. Andy ordered a 'Calzone Pollo Spinaci'. Which is roast chicken, spinach, mushroom and thyme in a creamy mozzarella sauce, topped with crispy coppa ham.

I ordered a  'Rustica Mezzo e Mezzo'. This has one half smothered in mozzarella, creamy new potatoes, riserva cheese, red onion and thyme. The other half had roasted peppers, roquito chilli, mushroom and rocket (which an extra order of spicy chicken for moi).

Yeah, I know, I'm craving it all over again too. If you haven't been yet, please go, its too good to miss.

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It was a beautiful day to be in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. And we celebrated this with a gorgeous trip to Leo's Beanery.

It's cute, delicious and packed with people.

So we picked our desired choice. Andrew wanted a mocha, and I went for a 'Margaret's Hope Darjeeling' Tea...both with a side order of brownies!

I love loose leaf tea, but as a student it always seems like an extra treat to get it. So when it came, I was ready to dive in.

Of course, Andy was sooo excited to be there with me... (Only joking!!)

What more can I say, just look at how good it looks...Cheers to a great cup of tea!!

I have fallen in love with this gorgeous place. I felt like I was in a little bubble of my own, away from the busy streets and into a retreat.

We left for a little more exploring. Down the royal mile, it's street performers everywhere. With pipers, singers and some magicians, it's entertaining to watch it all happen around you.

What can I explore next??

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You know that awkward moment when your lifestyle blog seems more like a foodie blog because you eat so much...

Anyway, it was another day with Andrew, and of course it had to start with the most important meal of the day.

Breakfast was at Papii. A cute little cafe in Edinburgh, which brought good food and a happy atmosphere.

An Earl Grey started us off. I loved the morning sunshine yellow teapots and the little milk jars.

And then the long awaited breakfast arrived. Andy got a breakfast panini, and yes yes yes, what came wafting my way were vanilla waffles with bacon and maple syrup. 

Divine did not begin to describe it. I munched until every bite was gone.

With full stomachs, we headed out again.

The Edinburgh sun shine brighter today with our cherry moods.

Let's see what the rest of the day may bring...

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After 3 weeks apart, it seemed like a lifetime. Andrew made the short trip over to Edinburgh for a visit.

Arriving, the favourite thing we do together is eat, so we headed for some Spanish goodness. Tapas and Paella at Cafe Anduluz. 

First of all, the Tapas.

Pollo Rebozado con Miel 

(Chicken fillet in a crisp batter coated with Spanish honey and grain mustard)

Tostado de Champiñones 

(Sliced mushrooms, garlic, truffle oil and smoked Tertilla cheese on crisp croutons)

Pan Catalân 

(Hot toasted bread spread with home cooked tomato and garlic chips)

It tasted as good as it looks. Sharing food always make it more fun and happy to eat, a little bit of this and that.

Not seeing Andrew for even a little period of time makes it such a special occasion when he comes.

Then it was on to the Paella, Andrew's favourite.

Paella de Pollo y Carne

(A rich tasting paella with roasted chicken, chorizo and Serrano ham)

When I was waiting for Andrew to arrive, I stopped in for some treats. No7 concealer and lipgloss...and with it I got a free goodie bag of more lip gloss, lip brush and lipstick in a gorgeous fiery red. 

I was smiling ear to ear with Andrew by my side for another weekend...and good food too! 

We headed to my flat afterwards for a movie, Earl Grey tea and Reese's chocolate bar (oh yes, that's right, you have to try it, it's sooooo good!)

Lets see what tomorrow may bring...

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So you want a little bit more from Ibiza? Here it is. Pretend its 30 degrees outside and relax with these gorgeous summer memories.

My lovely cousin was staying in Ibiza Rocks Hotel whilst we were there. So we met for a wonderful catch up. Whilst I rarely see her at home because of the distance, it was funny how we ended up here together.

Lois was able to meet Christina too, and we all got lunch together.

Then afterwards, we headed for a seat beneath the shade and took in the wonderful surroundings. An easy going day with no pressures or time keeping, just shorts and sunshine.

We hugged good bye, hoping the next catch up wouldn't be too long away.

Oh and can I just say, these are the best things ever. Lois and I probably ate a packet of them each day. Delicious. Chocolatey, croissant goodness all packed in together.

Goodbye Ibiza, you were exquisite. I loved your sandy beaches and sparkling waters. The sunsets and heat have left me wanting more. Lets drink in the happy memories, and put on the coats and scarves now autumn is here.

Until we meet again...

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I know, I know, summer is over. The shorts and sunglasses have been pushed to the back of the wardrobe, and once again, the woolly jumpers are out.

But I have been reminiscing a little bit, because after all, I never got to show you most of it...

So guess where I went this summer? Oooooh yes, Ibiza!

Now lets get something straight, I don't drink or go out. But I love the sunshine, and that was enough to sell me on going.

Lois and I booked our holiday to San Antonio 3 days before we were set to head off, and we danced the whole way to the airport.

Arriving at sunset just made my day. Leaving the cold rain of N.I. for 30 degree heat.

The next day we got straight into tanning, all day, every day. 
When we woke up, we entered a sea of food. Full of chorros, cheeses and goodness. It was the same at night too.
We entered our hotel in style too, as we found a huge cricket in our room. After failing to capture it, we ran down to reception with tears of laughter streaming down our faces. We were given a new room...I think the male staff were too scared of the cricket too!!

It was bliss. Lois and I did what we have waited all year for...listened to music, read a good book and smiled until the sun went down.

San Antonio itself is gorgeous. Everyone is out along the strip having a good time. Its such a busy atmosphere, which we just sat and soaked up all day.

People were sunbathing everywhere we went. Life felt so good whilst we dipped in and out of the shops.

WE LOVE IBIZA!!!!

Walking along the warm water in our white dresses, it was a day to remember. Being with my best friend just topped it all off. Lois and I just look at each other, and we know what each other is thinking. We laughed, we talked, we ate...bliss!

The one place we had to go to was Cafe Mambo. They have THEE best sunsets. Hundreds gather along the rocks, all huddle together and watch the sun set into the deep blue sea. Its one of the best sunsets in the world, which I can definitely believe. Here are some pictures of it...

My beautiful lady...

Ahhhh the memories of Ibiza...

If you want a little more, wait for the 2nd part of my Ibiza holiday...

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