cwsapts

Hit the Slopes at These 5 Skiing Destinations

November 5, 2013 by cwsapts

Do you long for the cold, snow filled days of winter all year long? If you're the adventurous type who loves the snow, why not plan a ski vacation this year? Break out those snow suits, dust off those skis, and hit the slopes at one of these top five ski vacation spots!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming
One of the best ski spots in the United States is Jackson Hole Mountain. This is the place for those serious about skiing. The mountain and roads are covered in snow all year round. On average, Jackson Hole receives over 400 inches of snow each winter. Steep slopes are perfect for more advanced skiers, but beginner and intermediate trails are also available.

Aspen, Colorado
All skill levels can have fun in Aspen with four different ski areas designed for beginners to advanced skiers. Spend your day traveling down the picturesque mountains and nights exploring the resort town filled with gourmet restaurants, boutiques, and museums. The resorts may be a little pricey, but the price is worth it for a luxury vacation.

Fernie, Canada
This is one of the best ski towns in British Colombia, and also one of the lesser known spots. The slopes are rarely crowded, so will have plenty of room to glide down the hills. Multiple hotels and resorts are available to stay out. After a day of skiing, make sure you check out all the great eateries and shops in town.

Park City, Utah
If the mountains in Park City are good enough for the U.S. Olympic team, they're sure to please ski enthusiasts. The historic mining town is now a go-to destination for powder dry snow and steep mountains. If you're visiting in January, you may spot celebrities hitting the slope after the Sundance Film Festival.

Zermatt, Switzerland
Want to ski on international soil? Travel to one of Switzerland's premiere skiing towns. Several mountains offer different ski experiences, like stomach-lurching drops and powder runs. Feel free to mountain hop during the day in the interconnected ski zones. You don't even have to leave the mountain for lunch with tons of mountain side restaurants.

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: Skiing, Trips, Vacation, Winter Sports

Reminder: Today’s Election Day

November 5, 2013 by cwsapts

Be sure to get out and vote today!

Filed Under: Life at The Marquis at Katy Apartments

Happy Autumn!

October 25, 2013 by cwsapts

With autumn upon us, we hope everyone is able to take advantage of all of the fun and festivities that the season has to offer. Happy Fall!

Filed Under: Life at The Marquis at Katy Apartments

Los Cucos: Mexican Fare in Katy

October 22, 2013 by cwsapts

If you’re looking for high-quality Mexican fare at very reasonable prices, Katy locals will proudly point you in the direction of Los Cucos. This local favorite has been serving up excellent food since opening their Houston location in 1991. Created by brothers Sergio and Manuel Cabrera, Los Cucos prizes quality and authenticity in all their dishes.

The menu is stuffed with favorites, but some of the best picks include the deep-fried stuffed avocado – the creamy vegetable is cored, filled with your choice of meat, breaded and fried. It’s a decadent treat that you won’t soon forget. The enchilades del rio are also treat, a massive plate overflowing with seafood and cheese. All of their portions are incredibly generous, so bring an appetite. The fajitas are also quite good, served on a sizzling platter with lots of fresh peppers. Prices are reasonable and service is affable and relatively quick.

Los Cucos
5305 Bell Patna Drive
Katy, TX 77494
(281) 644-6808
http://www.loscucos.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/los-cucos-katy-2

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Katy Dining, Los Cucos, Restaurants in Katy

Is Irradiated Food Safe to Eat?

October 15, 2013 by cwsapts

Are you familiar with food irradiation? It's the process of ionizing radiation to food, and it's actually very common. Manufacturers use this process to extend the shelf life of items and reduce or eliminate any microorganisms. This technology is used in canned fruits and vegetables, as well as in pasteurized milk. Is this food safe to eat, though?

The FDA is in charge of regulating the sources of radiation used in food. Only after they have deemed the source safe can it be used on our food. Many think this process makes food radioactive, but that is not case. It actually makes our food safer to eat by killing bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, destroying organisms that could cause decomposition and spoiling, and keeping insects out of food.

You can identify items that have been treated with radition by looking for the Radura symbol on the packaging. Even if your food as been irradiated, you still need to practice proper storing and serving techniques.

· Food Irradiation: What You Need to Know [U.S. Food and Drug Administration]

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: FDA, Food Safety, Irradiated Food

Have You Read These Three Classic Love Stories?

October 8, 2013 by cwsapts

Maybe you were forced to read them in high school, or maybe you just enjoy reading. Either way we're sure you've at least heard of these classic love stories:

Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare's classic love story is the quintessential tale about forbidden love. These star-crossed young lovers have been the inspiration for many love stories that followed.

Jane Eyre
Jane is a lonely, orphaned governess put in charge of Edward Rochester, a rich, mysterious man with a gruff exterior. As the two grow close in an effort to escape the loneliness they feel, Rochester reveals a tender heart causing Jane to fall in love. A series of tragedies occur including the discover of Rochester's wife, a fire, and blindness. But in the end love conquers all.

Pride and Prejudice
He was prejudiced and she was prideful, yet somehow Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy fell in love in Jane Austen's classic tale. The two resist falling in love, fighting the emotions they clearly feel. While Elizabeth initially rejects Darcy she ultimately realizes that he is the only one for her. Proving to readers that no matter what your background is, true love prevails.

What are your favorite romances?

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: Drama, Fiction, Love Stories

How To Make Great Risotto

September 24, 2013 by cwsapts

Risotto can be a daunting meal to prepare – this Italian dish is known for being quite difficult to make properly. The most thing to remember when making a risotto is constant attention. The cook basically needs to stay over the pan, constantly stirring the rice, while occasionally adding additional stock to the grains in order to achieve that perfect risotto consistency. Once you’ve got the hang of that, below are some ways to jazz up the dish!

– Mushrooms are known for being a fabulous complement to risotto. Their earthiness infiltrates the rice, adding interest and dimension to the dish. Try using porcini, baby bella, or chanterelle mushrooms, all work well. Top with freshly grated Parmesan.

– Lemon is also a wonderful addition to risottos. Add fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and steamed asparagus to the dish for a light, refreshing meal that will truly impress.

– In the fall, draw inspiration from seasonal produce. Try adding some roasted butternut squash for a subtle, comforting flavor.

– Seafood risotto is also a very popular option. Incorporate cooked clams, mussels, scallops, and shrimp to add a variety of flavors and textures to the dish, and season with saffron and fresh lemon.

– For a truly outstanding breakfast, prepare a traditional risotto and stir in cooked, crispy, crumbled bacon and some sharp cheese, like Swiss or Gruyere. Top with a poached egg and enjoy!

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: Cooking, Diet, Health, Nutrition, Recipes, Risotto

Udipi Cafe: Vegetarian Indian Cuisine

September 17, 2013 by cwsapts

Udipi Cafe serves flavorful vegetarian Indian cuisine. The Katy restaurant specializes in South Indian dishes made with only the best ingredients. Customers appreciate the clean restaurant and attentive service. Stop by for the daily buffet. The lunch buffet is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day. It's a great way to try many of the popular dishes for just $8.99! Make sure you try an order of the vegetable samosas. The dough is crispy without being oily. If you're coming for dinner, regulars recommend any of the Dosai served with rice & lentils crepe, delicious fillings, and chutney. You won't find any chicken tikki masala on the menu but there is a nice mix of curries that are fresh and delicious. Take out is available.

Udipi Cafe
943 South Mason Road
Katy, TX 77450
(281) 829-6100
http://www.yelp.com/biz/udipi-cafe-katy

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Katy Dining, Restaurants in Katy, Udipi Cafe

Texas Mesquite Grill: A Taste of Texas

September 10, 2013 by cwsapts

Texas Mesquite Grill specializes in the cuisine of the region. This Katy restaurant is filled with dark woods, booths, and flat screen TVs throughout the restaurant. Dig into the complimentary candied jalapenos and cream cheese as you look over the menu. The menu has a mix of salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and enchiladas. Try some of the house specialties like Chicken Fried Ribeye Steak, Tender Pork Ribs, and the Texas Top Sirloin. Regulars rave about the Fish Tacos with grilled tilapia, cabbage mix, and Creole sauce. Meals are reasonably priced but for an even greater deal stop by during lunch. Don't forget the Sunday brunch served from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Texas Mesquite Grill
20095 Katy Freeway
Katy, TX 77450
(281) 829-0444
http://www.yelp.com/biz/texas-mesquite-grill-katy

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Katy Dining, Restaurants in Katy, Texas Mesquite Grill