Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

When I had a cold or sore throat, my Dad would make me vanilla - orange floats: Vanilla ice cream scooped into a tall iced tea glass with orange juice poured over it. Eat with a spoon. I still make it for myself in my small city apartment, far away from home.

I grew up in Milwaukee, WI, and while I didn't live there during the high times of multiple breweries, there was one on the west side of the city, near Miller Park, and if you were driving at night, with the windows down, it'd fill up the car with the yeasty smell of beer. And on the cool Wisconsin night, I always thought that was great.

A chocolate bag (akin to the box referenced in this giveaway) filled with whipped cream, chocolate sauce and berries.

I go to the one in Chicago all the time, and I think the burgers, as well as the drinks, are pretty fantastic. Haven't made it to Maryoke yet, but since I live in the neighborhood, I'm sure I will!

My favorite pie is my grandmother's strawberry rhubarb. However, the more interesting story is of my least favorite pie, which was a pumpkin pie from a Thanksgiving back in high school. My little sister had been given the honor of making the pumpkin pie, and was very excited to bring it to the table. We topped it with cool whip and took big bites...then swiftly piled more cool whip onto, into and around the pie...she had forgotten to add the sugar!!

Whole Foods and Trader Joes are my absolute favorites, as well as the Farmers Market every week when it's in season! Also, the Sendik's chain, in Milwaukee, WI is a great grocery store, and I try to shop there whenever I'm home.