If there is anything I love doing the most in my spare time, it's playing video games. I have had a soft spot for video games ever since I was a little girl because of how immersive they can be. I can still remember how excited I was when my dad gave me my first Gameboy Advance and I would play 101 Dalmatians for hours. It was either that game, or The Mummy Returns - did anyone ever play these? 

    Well, that was over a decade ago. Today, my passion for Video Games hasn't changed much. If anything, as technology improves, my desire to play games has only increased! It's also my dream to start my own gaming channel on YouTube or Twitch. I love the experience of playing new games and sharing that experience with other fans too. A process like that would mean I'd have to totally upgrade my entire computer and desk layout, but it would be so worth it.  

    Until I can do that though, for now I want to share some of my TOP favorite games which is equally as exciting. For the longest time, my list has stayed the same over the years because it has been hard to find games that I truly enjoy. Since I've gotten more games though for both the PC and PS4, I figured it's a great time to make this post. 

Resident Evil

Resident Evil Zero

    I have only had the chance to play a few Resident Evil games but the ones that I have played have always had a special place in my life. The very first Resident Evil game I remember playing was Resident Evil Zero - with Rebecca and Billy. My dad bought the game for himself to play but he didn't realize it was a horror game and never touched it. One day though, I put it on to play and I was hooked! 

    After that point, I've enjoyed playing other Resident Evil games like; Outbreak, 2 (2019 version), 4, 5, and 7. It's not many considering how many games there are but I am hoping to play more soon!

Abzu

Abzu

    Abzu was the first game that left me speechless. It made me appreciate sea life to a whole different level and made me realize how beautiful games can really be. It's also the game that made me fall in love with Great White Sharks too - I know, how crazy! While most video games saturate the market with violent themed games, Abzu gave me hope that Video Game Developers are utilizing their technology by creating more inspiring content. 

Assassins Creed

Assassins Creed Brotherhood

    I'm not a hardcore Assassin Creed fan and I'll have to admit - there are only two games that I truly enjoy right now. Assassins Creed Brotherhood and Origins.  One takes place in Italy and the other in Egypt. I remember how popular Assassins Creed became after it released it's first game and I had fallen in love with it for it's beautiful landscape and unique concepts. Assassins Creed Brotherhood was the first game that could make me desire to visit a country so badly - and years later, I was finally able to. 

    Just like Resident Evil, there have been plenty of Assassin Creed games released that I haven't played yet so maybe soon I will find my new favorite. 

Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge

Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge

    This game made me want to skip school - no joke. I have always been a fan of everything from Tim Burton and I absolutely loved Nightmare Before Christmas. When I heard that a game for the PS2 came out, I begged my dad to buy it. I could not stop playing this game! When I got the game, it was around October too, which made everything about this game so perfect. 

    Anyone who loves Nightmare Before Christmas, should play this game! You will not be disappointed! Yes, it's for the PS2, but it's totally worth having - plus, the PS2 has some bomb games.

Fallout 4

Fallout 4

    If a game allows me to build or create within it - it's a major bonus. When I discovered that Fallout 4 allowed players to build their own settlements, I was so excited. Anyone who plays a post-apocalyptic game knows the importance of being able to find a safe hideout that is untouchable. I have replayed Fallout 4 several times now and each time I create different settlements that all make me feel giddy inside. Not only do I love the creating aspect of this game, but it's map and story line are amazing!

The Sims 4

The Sims 4

    This is a no brainer, but yes, The Sims is a favorite of mine. My oldest sister introduced me to The Sims, back when the graphics were pretty pix-elated. While I enjoy playing with characters, I mostly build homes in the Sims now. It's a game I can often lose myself in for hours just building and designing homes. Whether it's a home from my own imagination, or a home I've seen somewhere that I love, building in the Sims 4 is what I love most about this game.

Life Is Strange

Life Is Strange

    Life Is Strange not only has such a compelling story, but everything about this game is so well developed. The location, the illustrations, the characters, and did I mention how pretty the game is too? It's on the emotional side too, but worth opening up to. Playing this game felt more like I was watching a movie that I never wanted to end. It's s a favorite of mine that I play often just so I can relive the special moments that only this game is capable of. 

The Last of Us

The Last of Us

    Ugh. Speaking of games I wish never ended - The Last of Us has a firm grip on me and always will. A well thought out story line, wonderful chemistry between the main characters, beautiful graphics, and the perfect amount of intensity. I have replayed this game about four times now because it's just so amazing. I personally love the relationship that the main characters have that I honestly don't think any other game can top it. Words can't describe how amazing this game is and no - I will not buy or play the sequel. 

It Takes Two

It Takes Two

   Dimitar surprised me with this game for Christmas - what a gift too! We both had been eyeing it for awhile and we were super excited to finally be able to play it. Of all co-op games out there, It Takes Two hands down is the best! It completely dominates all co-op games out there because of it's original concepts and fun gameplay. It truly immerses you into an environment that is so dream like that allows you to complete awesome challenges with your partner. I love, love, loveeee this game. Game Developers - take notes!

Grounded

Grounded

   Another great game with an original concept! Grounded is so cute but challenging to play as you fight against big bugs that often have the upper hand. While the game itself needs some updates and the story line is hard to follow, it's still a game that Dimitar and I enjoy playing together because of how beautiful the game is. It's worth playing though for a unique co-op experience that I'm sure will only improve with time. 

The Forest

The Forest

    The first time Dimitar and I played this game together, we died so much! It's pretty intense for any newbie because you're literally immersed into the action with little to no idea of what to do or how to survive. If you're looking for a game that gets your adrenaline going, The Forest is great. Compared to when we first started out, Dimitar are now happily pros at this game and we can survive for a pretty long time. The secret? Building traps...many traps.

Plant's vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare

    This is such a fun game to play! It's can be pretty competitive at times because you play online with other players, but compared to most shooter games - this one is so much better. Colorful maps, fun characters, and cool perks, Dimitar and I love playing this game on our days off. I found it so refreshing compared to the other violent games that we normally play together and it was the start of us seeking more intricate games to play. 

Sonic Adventures 2

Sonic Adventures 2

    An oldie but goodie! Not only do you get to play as Sonic, but you also take on the role of his other friends too and your immersed into different worlds with different themes. This game has so many different aspects to it that make this game so addicting. I loved playing this game growing up and even today I still enjoy it. It's a throw back for sure and one I will always enjoy playing.

Primal

Primal

    I love this game like no ones business. There has to be something about early 2000 games that just can't compare with games made these days. Sometimes I feel like more thought was put into games back then because I just don't see many games that are original. The demonic worlds, the character's story, the unique puzzles - everything about this game made me a huge fan.  If I could - I would totally make a sequel to this game because it really deserves one! Whenever it rains outside, I always find myself playing this game and it never seizes to amaze me.

Bloodrayne

Bloodrayne

    This game was so different than any other game I had ever played before. A bit on the violent side and even sultry - yet so unique compared to the games that were coming out for the PS2 back then. The main character is bold and fierce with some bad a** moves up her sleeve - literally! She's also a vampire too which isn't common to see in video games these days. When they released the revamped version for the PS4, I was so excited and had to have it!

Super Mario Nintendo 64

Super Mario 64

    Who doesn't love games with Mario in it? This game really captured everything a child would want in a game and I played it so much with my sister. We couldn't get enough of it because there was so much to do in the game. Every level was better than the one before it and you really have a hard time putting it down. It's so fun and inviting that anyone of all ages can get into it.

A Tale of Two Brothers

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons

    This is such a beautiful game! Every moment playing it left me completely involved with the characters. I especially love the folk like illustrations and warm  toned scenery. It's a game with a meaningful mission that really takes you on an adventure that you wont forget. I really hope to see more games like this one because it's everything I look forward to in a game. 

~

    While there are many more games that I could add to this list like Donkey Kong and Banjoo Kazooie, for now these are my top favorites. What are some of your favorite videos games?

Until next time! xoxo - Sarah

    2022 is a special year because of my love for the number 22; as you all may know, the number 22 is very meaningful to me because it appears so often throughout my life. My birthday is on the 22nd of August, my mom's birthday is on the 22nd of July, and my oldest sister has a birthday on January 22nd.  On top of all of this, Dimitar and I had our first date on October 22nd.

*This post is not sponsored.

    Today's post isn't about birthdays though, but about a special surprise getaway that Dimitar planned for the two of us. He sure loves his surprises and made sure that I had nothing planned for that day. Can you guess what day it was? Tuesday, February 22, 2022. So on Monday afternoon - the day before - we both packed and I did my best to get as much information out of Dimitar as I could. The idea of not being prepared for a special moment really drives me crazy! All he told me though was this; bring nice clothes, a bathing suite, your pajamas, and anything girl related...

    After making sure the guinea pigs had plenty of hay and were comfortable - we'd be gone for a day after all - we hopped in the car and Dimitar turned on the GPS. Once I saw the directions, I realized that wherever we were going was about 4 hours away! I hadn't mentally prepared myself for a long trip, and yes I even complained a bit, but we both settled into the ride and began chatting about life. 

    Fast forwarding 4 hours later, it was about 9pm at night and we finally arrived in a small town in Pennsylvania called East Stroudsburg. We couldn't see much of our surroundings because it was so dark and foggy, but we drove down a private driveway where our destination was said to be. We came across a heart shaped sign that said, "You are now entering a land of love," which then led us to a resort looking place. Dimitar parked his car in front of the main building called Pocono Palace and said he had to take care of some paperwork before he disappeared into the building. 

Pocono Palace of Pennsylvania

    With the lights turned on, I saw we were in a two level suite. The ceiling itself was at least 20ft tall and there were Roman Pillars along the walls too that were equally as tall. Mirrors were lined against the right side of the room, opening the space up even more than it already was. In the center of the room, there was also a huge martini glass structure that connected to the second level of the suite, something I had no idea what was for. From the first floor I noticed a loft too; a feature I adored and secretly wanted in my next apartment or home. 

    The entire theme of the room was romantic with colors of red, pink, gold, and white. I absolutely loved it! There was also a retro vibe to the room too going from the furniture accents to the red carpets that had gold designs on them. Dimitar and I were both amazed by how beautiful the suite itself was - there was so much for us to take in that we both acted like little children who were just dropped off at the playground. 

Roman Tower Suite Pocono Palace Goodies

Red accents & roman features

View of loft above

    As we made our way up the stairs to the second floor, I nearly choked out of excitement; there was a room to our left with a pool inside of it! Not just any kind of pool either, but a heart shaped one! This completely explained the chlorine smell that I first noticed when I entered the room. At this point, I was too excited to focus on vlogging properly so I really hope the footage that I do have, is decent...If the heart shaped pool couldn't top it off, it turns out that right next to the pool, there was a sauna too!

Heart shaped pool

Rose petal covered stairs

    To the left of the stairs was the bathroom where majority of the bathroom amenities were gold plated. I really loved the retro vibe the bathroom gave off; it was like taking a dip back in time, something I wish I could do more of these days. Moving over to the loft area, the lighting was dim, but intentional. Above the circular bed was a reflective ceiling with led lighting inside of it to look like stars.

    The next day, since it was raining outside and our trip was only for one day, we decided to visit the Recreation Room. It turns out, we were actually at a couples retreat which made so much sense! Once at the main building, I realized the retreat had more to it than I thought; everything from an indoor pool, a gym, lounge area, bar, it's own restaurant and café, and a gift shop even. The resort also had plenty of activities to do outside too but with the weather being a bit wet, we weren't able to get to those; definitely next time though!

    Once we got to the recreation room, to our surprise, we had it all to ourselves!

Recreation Room

    After playing miniature golf, we then moved onto Ping Pong. We didn't keep track or anything like that, but we did set challenges for us to complete; for example, getting to 22 hits without dropping the ball. I don't think I've played Ping Pong much when I was little but I found that once you get into the momentum of it, it's quite relaxing, especially the sound of the ball hitting the paddles. 

    When we finished several rounds of Ping Pong, we then moved onto playing Pool. When I was little, I used to go to a Recreation Center that was part of our school and I remember playing pool often. Now, if I was good or not is a blur, but I do know I enjoyed playing it. I actually almost won my first round of Pool until I hit the eight ball. After that, Dimitar won and by the third game, I almost won again until I hit the eight ball... again...wow.

    Since the recreation room was connected to a basketball court, we shot a few hoops together afterwards to burn off steam from playing pool. I didn't want to sweat too much though so I left Dimitar to enjoy himself. We spent a good two hours there in total and before we left, we took photos inside a photo boot - something we had never done before. It made us both feel like we were in High School all over again!

Taking pictures

    After two hours or so, we both were hungry so we went back to the hotel room to freshen up. We had plans to get a massage afterwards but for some odd reason, they weren't taking appointments even though we had a voucher for one.  It was disappointing but we were still happy just to have a pool and sauna to ourselves.

    Before doing anything else though, Dimitar kept checking the time to make sure it wasn't 2:22pm yet. When it was close to it though, he finally told me that he wanted to give me something and asked me to hold out my hands. I did and just as I did, he placed a small red box in the center of my hands. I had no idea what to expect, so I opened the small red box, and saw a gold diamond ring. I was shocked!

    He helped me put the ring on and I was amazed by how beautiful it was - seeing a diamond up close is mesmerizing! The ring had a Rose Gold band that had an infinity loop on it. At exactly 2:22, Dimitar then pulled out a piece of paper and read to me an intimate letter that I will forever cherish and hold dear to me. Since it was an intimate moment between us, I wont share what the letter said, but it was the start of a new beginning for both of us.

    

Diamond ring by Diamondere

Infinity Loop Diamond Promise Ring

     We spent some time talking to one another where Dimitar opened up on how he spent months planning the entire trip. He then told me about the ring and how it was custom made for me - the diamond was his birthstone to symbolize a piece of him that would always be with me. I came to admire him so much more for his dedication to create such an amazing experience for both of us and it only made our trip so much more memorable. I also suck at surprises too so to see him so successful with each one is truly respectable. 

    We later went out to eat at Spooners Cafe and I of course could not stop eyeing my ring. I've always been nervous to wear pretty rings because I have always ended up losing them in the past. This time though I would be extra careful to make sure it was well looked after. We took our time eating and conversating because we really wanted to enjoy each moment. 

Our late lunch

    After we ate, we played a couple of rounds of backgammon before heading back to the Recreation Room to play some more pool. I still didn't win and once again, I managed to hit the eight ball! That eight ball was really out to get me... We went back to our hotel room and spent the remainder of the evening relaxing in the pool, the sauna, and the jacuzzi. Just thinking about leaving made me sad, but I knew we'd come back during the Spring time. 

     Even though our trip was just for a day, it was a day that I will forever remember. I think all couples should take time off to spend it with their significant other and resorts like the Poconos Palace really make it possible to do so. Whether you're a new couple, or a couple who has been together for quite some time, never skimp out on bonding with one another. I look forward to returning to the Pocono Palace and I highly recommend other couples' to visit as well!

Until next time! xoxo - Sarah

    Have you heard? Soufflé pancakes are getting all the rage today. Even if they weren't, I have found myself lately stuck on YouTube watching Japanese and Korean street cuisine and it's absolutely  torture. Where I live, there aren't many oriental cafes which is such a bummer because I love trying foods from different cultures. If you aren't sure what a Soufflé pancake is, all it takes is a quick web search to fall in love with these fluffy, delicious, pancakes!

    After watching enough videos to stir up my own appetite - and on my day off with Dimitar - I found a recipe on YouTube and gathered up all of my baking ingredients. Now, I've mentioned before how baking in a small kitchen is the hardest thing to do and unfortunately, my kitchen hasn't grown since then. It's still small and it's still a pain to cook and bake in. It is a kitchen though after all and I do need my Soufflé pancakes.

    Also, this is my second attempt trying to make Soufflé pancakes. The first time I made them, I only made two pancakes (recipe was for 3 really, but 1 pancake didn't make it *sad face*) and I didn't record myself making them either. The first recipe I used was great too but I didn't save it or remember it *sad face again* so I decided to try a new one. 

My Ingredients

Separate yolks from eggs whites

Add milk to egg yolks

    With cold milk, I added a few tablespoons of it to my egg yolks and stirred. Many people use regular milk for the fat content, but since I don't drink regular milk, all I had was Almond milk. It's still very tasty to me though since it has vanilla in it, but I would love to try making Soufflé pancakes with regular milk to see if there is a difference in taste or looks. Let me know if there is!

Add in flour

    Soufflé pancakes are unique because they require very little flour for them to rise - this is why the merengue is so important. While merengue is hard to perfect, it's the key step to getting big, fluffy pancakes. To get the best pancakes, it's also important to measure out your flour the correct way which is usually done with a scale. I don't have one though but I definitely plan on getting one soon.

Add vanilla

    This part is optional but I find that adding vanilla extract compliments the faint eggy taste of these pancakes. Plus, whenever I am baking, I always add vanilla just out of habit. You can leave it out if you don't like vanilla or add in other flavors like matcha green tea powder or even cocoa powder. Once I get the hang of making regular Soufflé pancakes though, I plan on experimenting. Put this mixture to the side until we're ready for it later. This is also a good time to start heating your stovetop on the lowest setting possible;  if you have an electric stove top or even a griddle with a lid, your pancakes should come out nicely.

Preparing the merengue

Merengue is starting to thicken up

Stiff peaks

Add merengue to egg yolk mixture

        My bowl was a mess at this point, but I was doing my best to work fast; merengue works best if used ASAP.  At this point, I started heating my frying pan on the lowest heat setting possible. Since I have a stove with burners, I waited until the last minute to start heating my pan up. I also wiped oil onto it to prevent sticking - you really don't need a lot either!

    I add only a 1/3 of the merengue into my egg yolk mixture and mix it gently. Once mixed, I then add the remaining merengue to it, and fold it into the egg yolks. If you mix too fast, you can break the merengue, so really be gentle here and treat it like it's your baby. Mix only until incorporated.

Using a 1/4 scoop

     

Create circle for a nice shape

Cover with lid - or anything you have that's heat proof :)

     Since I don't have a big scooper, I decided to use one of my measure cups - the 1/4 scoop. Scooping a good amount, I plopped as much as I could onto the pan, being sure to create a circle with the back of my measuring cup. I then added a dash of water to the pan which will prevent our pancakes from cracking and drying out on us. Cover your pancake with a lid and let cook for 3-4 minutes; I don't have a lid for my pan so I used one of my Pyrex bowls instead and it worked like a charm.

Add more batter on top for taller pancakes

My baby Soufflé pancake

    And there you go! It's not as big as most Soufflés pancakes are, but I think if I had a bigger scoop, I could achieve just that. After this point, you just rinse and repeat the steps until you use up all of your batter. Since Soufflé pancakes are tall because of the heat being held within them, it's a good idea to consume these right away - as if that's an issue for me!

First pancake

My tower of Soufflé Pancakes

So delicious and worth perfecting!

    I hope you give these pancakes a try. It may take much more effort than your usual pancakes but they're totally worth it. They're fluffy, sweet, and such a nice treat if you want something new. Eating them made me feel like I was in Japan - without actually being there. How cool is that?

    Have you tried making Soufflé pancakes before? How many attempts did it take you?

Until next time! xoxo - Sarah