Link – Zee In Wonderland

a little less kindness.. a little more judgment

Yes, you read the title right….

Unfortunately, as much as I work hard on leading a positive and kind life, I am constantly faced with negativity and judgment.

For as far as I can remember, I have always been judged for who I am, for how I look, for the way I dress, for the way I speak, for my mentality, for my personality, for my capabilities, and for my decision making process. Even my closest friends and family feed off the pleasure of judging every word I speak or every item of clothing I wear.

The result? Low self esteem and much much later in life, the power to turn it all around into an extremely confident, positive, happy life.

Yes, I admit, I used to also be an extremely judgmental person as well during my young adult years, however, I worked hard on myself and learned to keep my mouth shut if it wants to utter unkind words. It is difficult. I am not perfect.

Recently, when trying to be compassionate and empathetic to a friend, I was immediately judged into being an idiot and was kindly advised to mind my own business…. What a disappointing world we have come to. I wasn’t mad or upset by her unkind words, I was rather forced to remind myself that no one will completely understand your intentions but yourself. Trying to help with words has, unfortunately, become a nuisance.

The whole point of this post if you’ve come across it is to NEVER respond to judgment with unkindness. No matter what, it is very important to protect your peace of mind. To do that, always be kind. No matter what, do not mirror negative thoughts, actions, and words.

We all need a little more kindness & and a lot less judgment.

Love

Zee

Focus on the good.

I made a pact to myself.

On the eve of January 01 2019.

I told myself, Zeinab, you need to start focusing on the good

Life, itself, is not worth all this overthinking.

You need to expect the good to receive that goodness.

The very first step to that road: always expect the good from people.

I know it sounds gullible. I know that the world is filled with envy, hate, disappointment, selfishness, and self pity.

But that doesn’t matter. What matters is my perception. My mindset.

Regardless of the outcome. I choose to expect the good. See the good. Understand the good side. Love the goodness in people not matter how diminished.

This year. I will focus on the good.

Are you tired of reading the word good?

I believe it is time to revaluate your mindset.

It will be good for you

I promise

Love,

Zee

Eggs Benedict: Why & Where?

Hey there

Finally getting back on track and what a better way than talking about my addiction with breakfasts. Specifically Eggs Benedict. 2018 has definitely been a year of obsessing over Mr. Benedict

During the month of September, I went on a quest to try as much I can and here are the results:

Eau De Rose – Villaggio Mall – On a bed of Muffin

It was literally on a bed of muffin. Literally, a muffin like the one we purchase everywhere. I enjoyed it but did not fall in love with it. However, the hollandaise sauce was on point with that splash of paprika.

2. Fromage – Tawar Mall – Small but Terrible (in a good way)

I devoured it in just few minutes; maybe because they were tiny but oh my I loved it! Especially the crunchy crisps in the middle and the cream cheese garnish. They really made an effort into adding that oommmphh

3. Paul Arabia – Villaggio Mall – Love at first bite

I would go back for this over and over. Actually, craving it right now! I was so hesitant ordering a salmon eggs benedict but this has become my fave go to Saturday breakfast

4. The Breakfast Club – The Pearl – Sweet n Savory Combo

If you love sweet potato and don’t mind having it for breakfast then this one is for you!

5. Angelina – Gate Mall – The queen comes with a fleet

One of my favorite eggs benedict! Comes with a generous set of breakfast/brunch for just 150 QR. They are on the entertainer too!

6. The Cheesecake Factory – Multiple outlets in Doha and around the world – The literal all day breakfast

Eggs Benedict, deep fried chicken, waffles, sweet potatoes, and caramelized onions. This meal lasted the whole day! This is a dish I crave on a regular basis.

7. Laduree – Multiple outlets in Doha and France – First class breakfast

Ever wondered what a first class meal would like? This is one. Hands down the best I ever had! Definitely trying it in Paris soon!

Well, there you go. This is it. I am actually planning on trying more so this post will be updated within the next few months!

Cheers!

What Happened to Zee?

Hey world

SO! I just realized that I haven’t blogged for almost 7 months. Well, the reason behind that is because my partners and I opened our cafe in the Philippines Vintage Brew Cafe on January 20th 2018 and ever since then it has been a rollercoaster. So far, it’s been challenging, mind blowing, humbling, exhausting, amazing, and absolutely fantastic.

The reality is owning a business is not all glamour and wealth. It is hard work, causes mental illness, and extremely exhausting especially when I also hold a very busy full time day job IN ANOTHER COUNTRY. However, I do recommend that anyone with the ability (even the slightest) to hold their ground and own a business. I mean, why not?

Anyways, I will be sharing photos and details of my cafe and might even add a category just for updates and business tips that I learned/would learn along the way. Let me know if you are interested in the comments below!

Otherwise, everything is still the same.

More to come

Love

Zee

My 2017 Fashion Story

I know I am way past the regular deadline of 2017 roundup but regardless, I still want to share this post with you. I will be highlighting three 2017 fashion stories.

First, I will start with my favorite outfit pictures of 2017. Then, I will be highlighting the unique and different styles that I wore during 2017. Lastly, I will be sharing my most lovable outfits of 2017.

PICTURE PERFECT 2017

This is hands down my favorite picture someone took of me, ever! I mean, this is postcard material! From Turkey, with love.

I loved this because, it’s a happy one. It wasn’t a fake laugh but a genuine one. The story behind it is that I was trying to take a serious pose but one of my friends made a sarcastic remark thus creating this random one.

I intentionally took a picture next to one of Sugar & Spice’s doors because they are so picturesque. And the result? now everyone knows how short I am 🙂

This is also a photo that was among many other burst shots. I wonder what I was thinking about at that particular second? And no, I wasn’t trying to showoff an engagement ring as some thought. Disclaimer: This girl is in a relationship with her business (to share later).

I mean, oh happy picture?

Not sure if this is a good photo or a really funny one. Still, a 2017 favorite.

SOMETHING DIFFERENT 2017

This is to share the styles that I thought I would not wear or the styles that others found it interesting:

Two words: Unicorn scarf 🙂

Those bright shoes! I remember I once wore those to work and I received compliments from not only my co workers, also from students and the director himself.

I am not a fan of fur but I felt stylish this day in particular. I remember only wearing it one other time during the whole year. Well, the weather doesn’t help either right?

Maxi dresses. I wore a lot of them during 2017 and I shall continue to do so in 2018. Just because they are easy to wear and comfortable.

Turbans. No, I will not be discussing why I chose to wear them. I have a whole blog post draft prepared for that which I am not ready to share yet.

FAVORITE OUTFITS 2017

I will let the photo speak for themselves 🙂

Have a happy 2018 everyone 🙂

Love,

Zee

Foodie Adventures of 2017

So here it is, the infamous annual round up that every blogger and social media influencer has to edit and post.

2017 was a great year of foodie adventures. It costed me gaining weight but nevertheless I very much enjoyed all of them.

Part One will be about the new places and dishes I tried.

Part Two will be about my new foodie addictions

PART ONE

Let me start by listing the new places/dishes I tried and loved:

Manhattan Fish Market

The costumer service at the Ban Mahmoud branch is really fantastic. Plus, very delicious seafood options

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/the-manhattan-fish-market-fereej-bin-mahmoud

Chaclate

Specifically their Medovnic cake. Picture says enough 🙂 Going back this year to try their breakfast options.

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/chac-late-katara/info

Triangle

Located at the pearl. This place has been a controversy among food bloggers. Some found it overrated while others loved it. I loved it. Bonus: cute waiters

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/triangle-5-pearl-qatar

Churro Spot

Discovered them at the food festival and my did they do the best churros dripped with Nutella ever!

Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/churros_spot/?hl=en

Basta

They do the best Karak I have ever had!

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/basta-23-al-gharafa

Bulbul

Located at the Tornado tower, a tiny restaurants that serves Lebanese dishes. Loved every single order. Tip: go there before or after lunch hours.

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/bulbul-dafna

Angelina

Finally found the perfect place for a non-buffet brunch! Generous varieties for just 150 QR. Bonus tip: The brunch menu is on the Entertainer!

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/angelina-dafna

Hafiz Mustafa in Turkey

The most amazing dessert in Turkey! ‘Nuff said! Highly, highly recommended.

PART TWO

This part will showcase my 2017 foodie addiction. Dishes that I kept ordering and restaurant that I constantly revisited:

Eggs Benedict

This year, I switched from ordering standard Omelet to Eggs Benedict. All thanks to the Angelina Paris! Hollandaise sauce is king of all sauces.

Tufo @ Max Restaurant

We are Max addicts at work & whenever we order from there I always have to order their Sizzling Tofu! It is spicy and mixed with Mayo!

Max Restaurant’s Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/maxs-restaurant-al-sadd

Caribou

Every morning on my way to work, small mint condition mocha with extra shot of espresso soy milk no cream 🙂 Every Single morning

Mooya

Located close to my workplace, Once a month, whenever I feel stressed and completely shutting down, I pass by this place and either order their sliders or Texas Burger

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/mooyah-salwa-road

Volume

Their coffee is amazing (Cereal Latte) and their desserts are unique (Cereal Cake)

Tip: not everything is on their menu. Check out their Chiller when you enter for more dessert options

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/volume-cafe-pearl-qatar

Knefe

Have you ever ordered something that triggered nostalgic emotions then you had to constantly order the same just to feel home again? This year, Albisana restaurant did that to me! All I wanted was knefe after that!

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/al-bisana-restaurant-katara

Sisig

Another favorite filipino dish! It is prepared with either fish, chicken, or beef then mixed with onions and bell peppers then sprinkled with Mayo sauce and non cooked egg. You mix and eat. Might sound gross, but extremely delicious.

Barrio Fiesta Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/barrio-fiesta-al-hilal

Chicken & Waffle

One of my ultimate favorites for 2017. I practically ordered it almost every time I saw it on a menu! This one is from Eggspectation

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/eggspectation-al-gharafa

French Toast

I remember ordering this dish Magnolia Bakery and being hooked for the rest of the year. Absolutely love French Toast! Morning, Lunch, and Dinner. I predict that this will continue until 2018

Sugar & Spice

I honestly cannot count the number of times I went to Sugar and Spice in 2017. One of my top three places in Qatar! If not, ever!

Zomato page: https://www.zomato.com/doha/sugar-spice-al-waab

Happy New year everyone 🙂

Cheers,

Zee

Blogging Hiatus

So, for the past few months, I haven’t been blogging much. I had plans to draft many, many posts during the summer break since I wasn’t travelling; however, I did none of that. The first reason behind it was because May & June were extremely stressful months for me. My brain was literally fried. I had a hard time making decisions, thinking straight, and even remembering names!

I needed a break. A break from reading. A break from thinking. A break from planning. Basically anything that required effort. I know, I know, blogging should be easy because it’s my passion… but, come on, it DOES require effort 🙂

The second reason was that I had a hard time even brainstorming. I usually blog from home sitting in bed; now I’m thinking to make it habit of doing it somewhere else. At a cafe or something. So! I need YOUR help! If you have any ideas of how to find my “Zen” space for blogging let me know in the comments below 🙂

Nevertheless, if you feel like taking a break from writing/blogging (or from anything else in your life) then why not? Don’t think too much, it is not worth it.

Cheers 🙂 !

New Foodie Favorites: 2 Desserts & a crust!

So, I AM BACK. To blogging that is, of course. I’ve been away for two reasons: Ramadan & I was also going through a hardcore blogger’s block. I had no ideas and no strength to even write.

Of course, my first topic since my short hiatus is about food 🙂 Come on, are you even surprised? I bet you’re not!

During my time off I discovered 3 favorites: a cake, a crust, and a new restaurant that serves my favorite Arabic/Turkish dessert.

CAKE (Paul’s Bakery & Restaurant)

Last week, we celebrated Father’s Day and I wanted to purchase a cake from somewhere closer to our house since I was too lazy to drive elsewhere and Paul was the best idea.

I honestly cannot remember what this cake’s called and I am not going to pretend I do! Anyway, this cake is made from my three favorites: Brownie, light cream, and berries! Chocolate and berries have always been one my favorites blended flavors. This cake will definitely be one of my favorites from now on!

THE CRUST (Biella Restaurant)

My family loves pizza and to be honest, we got tired of all those giant fast food restaurants. Why? Because the crust was always an issue! One Ramadan night, we were supposed to have Iftar at 800 Degrees; however, since I forgot to make a reservation, we decided to opt for Biella instead. It was our first time and we absolutely loved their crust. Soft AND Crunchy! Just a side note to Biella’s management: please add more toppings 🙂

KNEFE (Al Bisana Restaurant)

I specifically decided to head to this restaurant for one reason: Their Knefe. & I was not disappointed. Crispy where it should be crispy and cheesy where it should be cheesy. Definitely coming back to try their soft Knefe.

Bonus: Shawarma is also good but there are better options closer to where I live.

That is the end. Hope you enjoyed my new favorites. Trying more new restaurants in July so hopefully I’ll find more favorites!

Smile 🙂

Where do I shop for modest clothing in Qatar?

If I’ve had a riyal for every time someone asked me this question, I’d be a millionaire. Literally. I actually shop from different places depending on my mood, location, and mood. (yes, mood). and I also shop from where you shop from as well 🙂

So, I thought I’d share with you the three high street shops I buy my clothes from the most. They are Riva, Zara, and Mango (easy, right?)

RIVA

I fell in love with this shop when I came to Qatar. I always struggled finding modest hijabi clothing and this was a jackpot. I love their clothes, style, and fabric. I am a petite girl and some of their clothing could be a taaaad larger than life for me but with smart choices and good tailoring everything can be fixed. Here are some inspirations:

Shop Riva http://www.rivafashion.com & at Mall of Qatar, DFC, Ezdan Mall, and Lagoona Mall

ZARA

I’m not sure if I’m the only one here but hasn’t Zara improved their aesthetic? I love their new vibe and style. More modest, classy, and wider selections. I used to buy just a piece out of the whole store. Now I walk out with a huge shopping bags; sometimes more. Below are some inspirations:

Shop Zara at http://www.zara.com./qa and almost all malls across Qatar

MANGO

Honestly speaking, I used to hate shopping at this place. Their clothes were tacky made of horrible materials. The section I used to shop at was their accessories. However, I’ve been loving their collections since late last year. The fabrics are no longer cheap and their clothing styles have become more feminine. My favorites are below:

Shop Mango at shop.mango.com/QA-en and almost all malls across Qatar

Think Positive!

I’ve been struggling with positivity for a while now and while people perceive me as an extremely happy and positive person, I could be a little harsh on myself.

Yes, silent competitiveness & the struggle for perfection are two of my bitter-sweet traits and that could lead to negative thoughts. Therefore, I decided that I would live a year of utter positivity commencing May 9 (which happens to be my birthday but that is not my point here).

For 365 days I will:

1- Appreciate everything that will happen and is already going on in my life

2- Be thankful for every single person currently in my life. They are all here for a either a lesson or a blessing and both are appreciable

3- Turn any negative thought into a positive one. No matter what. (because come on, I am human not a robot so negative thoughts are going to come through)

4- Read happy & positive books and articles

5- Help others see the positive side of any downside

6- Avoid negative connotations

7- Dream big. Why not?

Next year, specifically in May 2018, I will share the result of this plan and the impact of utter positivity!

Love,

Zee