September’s theme for the photo blogging challenge hosted by http://hoohaablog.com/ was Happy. The only challenge this month was to only pick 5 pictures.

Picture 1 – Gatlinburg, TN
Labor Day weekend hubby and I went to the mountains and stayed in a cabin with 10 our friends. Most of our days were spent sitting on the porch looking at the mountains. It was fun, relaxing with people we love. As one quote says, “Friends are the family you choose.”

mountains

Picture 2 – Whoopie pies at a local Business networking mixer
When the local college hosted a business networking mixer, their onsite catering company provided the food. The catering company is none other than Old Main Catering. Their pastry chef makes the BEST whoopie pies. For you who do not know what a whoopie pie is, it is a mound shaped cake that has a delicious filling. It looks like a cookie, but has the texture of cake. Pictured are lemon and chocolate.

whoopie pies

Picture 3 – Belizean restaurant in Los Angeles, CA
Sadly my great-aunt passed away in September (she was 88). The family gathered together in California to attend the funeral. Since my family is from Belize, we went to Belizean Fish Market to pick up food for lunch once everyone was in town. Some of my cousins, I had not seen in years. While we were gathered for a sad occasion, being around family to celebrate her life and love. My favorite menu item: panades! (if you are in LA, go here for delicious authentic Belizean food)

belizean fish market

Picture 4 – Almond Joy inspired mousse
I attended a restaurant menu preview dinner night. The chef is testing recipes before they officially open. One of the dessert items was the Almond Joy inspired mousse. It was delicious! I thought it would be too sweet but it was perfect. The coconut flavor was not overpowering. The cookie provided texture without being too much.

almond joy inspired mousse

Picture 5 – Inflatables & Obstacle course 5K
I signed up to participate in a 5K that included an obstacle course and several inflatables. My friend had as a goal to complete a 5K this year and I decided to do it with her. All together, there were 16 obstacles and 4 inflatables. It was fun and I would do it again. Hopefully next time, it will not be raining. The inflatable pictured was the last one. I was happy that I made it to the end.

inflatables