BROOKLYN BRIDGE

Five years ago, I promised my niece I would take her to New York. Why did she want to go? Her name is Brooklyn and she just really wanted to see the Brooklyn Bridge. As we all know, crazy things in life happen and we put that promise on hold for a bit. Recently, I was given the opportunity to travel to NYC for the weekend with one other person and I chose my niece. We were finally going to make that promise happen!

A local radio station, 97.1 ZHT gave us tickets to see Maroon 5 in concert. Before the concert, we added a little fun to our itinerary.

First thing, we made it to Brooklyn for both a Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge shot.

We then headed to the Japanese Tea Room for yummy brunch.

We couldn't let her visit the Big Apple without seeing a Broadway show.

Mean Girls was so fetch!

Top of the Rock is the best place to get a fabulous view of the city.

Go at sunset for an amazing sky!

We took a cab ride to Madison Square Garden for the concert.

We sang along with every song and even enjoyed a slice of pizza on the walk back to our hotel.

Did you think we would not take a stroll in Central Park before taking the Subway back to airpot?!

It was a quick trip, but I think it is safe to say she loved New York.

VEGAS & CELINE DIONE: Day 1

Guess which girl won 2 tickets to see Celine perform, 2 nights stay at Caesars Palace, and $150 for food during the stay?! You guessed it...this girl!

 After a little negotiation with travel plans, I was on the road with my best pal Brandon. We made the inevitable stop in Beaver, UT, for a quick bite and an I heart Beaver photo.

 View from our swanky Caesar's Palace room.

 Hello, Vegas!

 We enjoyed a little pre-show entertainment outside our hotel in front of the Bellagio.

And a quick view of Paris

 Celine sounded great onstage and our seats were fabulous!

Her performance seemed a little (actually a LOT) rehearsed, but she does the show 7 nights a week (tell joke-pause for laughter).

 After the show, we walked over to Planet Hollywood for THE best burger I have ever eaten. Even if you aren't the biggest hamburger fan like me, you will LOVE the food, ambiance, and service at Gordon Ramsay's BURGR restaurant.

 I am pretty sure everything on the menu is delicious!

We also had some sweet potato fries (with vanilla powdered sugar and honey jalapeño mayo) and a creme brûlée shake to go.

We went back to the hotel, stuffed, and found cute little chocolate gold coins on the pillows.

What a fantastic night!