So much food, EVERYWHERE.
After years of wanting to go, wishing I could go, trying to set my schedule so I could go, I’ve finally made it to Taste of Chicago and they didn’t disappoint! I know, I had to have read all about the ins and out of “The Taste” as it’s affectionately known but I really didn’t have any expectations as to the food variety. I was surprised with Mexican, African, Jamaican, more Mexican and of course Two different varieties of Pizza. Although I opted to stay away from The dough, the smell was delicious enough to change my mind.
Day One was HOT! I met up with my fly sister, Shakila, copped some food tickets, and took a survey of our selection. Did I say it was hot? Cuz it was. My confession of never having Harold’s led us straight there and OMG. Juicy, tender, flavorful chicken. And yes!, I got the mild sauce!
After some prime shots, because hello! The sun was giving us this Glow, it was time for sweets. The stifling heat called for funnel cakes with ice cream, Italian and Mexican iceys.
Tristan Jonez
FYI Its called a Taste of Chicago because you can get a ‘taste’ of the food, ( a small but lightly filling portion) or a full portion. Genius!
San Jose doesn’t owe me a thing! Every single sidewalk, walkway and park was bursting with fresh flowers, even dying flowers but there’s beauty in death. It’s a goal/dream of mine to host a gallery of my photos. I’d like to believe I can do wonders, and what better way to show them off then putting them ALL on display. 
I can’t wait until I return to San Jose, California. There’s still so much for me to capture. 
Tristan Jonez
When did we get into the habit of glossing over the ‘struggle’? I find that folks are so eager to show that they are winning, that it creates unrealistic expectations so when you do lose, personally, you lose your fucking mind. We know, with all forms of social media, you have to keep up airs, stay put on but isn’t that exhausting? Now don’t get me wrong, who the hell wants to solely focus on failures? Nobody. That’s a depressing place to be, but shit happens, right?
I laughed at the response. I mean how could I not? You’re not interested yet you went out of your way to gain my attention. I could’ve respected, him not responding, or even, a “Good Night” in return. We as women have been conditioned to support the male ego, let them down softly, try not to reject them, and if you do, put the blame on you. Nope! Although I will forever be respectful in my dealings, protecting your (fragile) Ego will never be my concern.
Hands Down. Toes Down. Some of the BEST fried chicken, I’ve ever had in my thirty two years of living. From the seasoning, to the level of crisp, it was all perfectly crafted. Disclaimer, if you are starving, this dish will take at least twenty five minutes to cook, as they fry it fresh! Secondly, Ever had bread pudding? 
I had NEVER experienced bread pudding, and I know, I’ll never eat it anywhere else but Mother’s. Yeah, I’m loyal like that. I was a bit hesitant to try it, as the dish has fruit baked in (not usually a fan of baked fruits) and the texture weirds me out BUT HONEY, I’m. Obsessed. From the first bite, my tastebuds rejoiced! Its drenched (?), no it’s smothered (?) with a warm, and very rich whiskey glazed sauce that will almost certainly have you licking the plate. Unfortunately I had to practice having some class so I didn’t partake, however it is worth taking a to go box so you can do as you wish in the privacy of your home. 
Promise me, you will not leave NOLA, without sampling everything amazing that Mother’s has to offer. 
Jonez, Where We Going? 