
When I first heard that McDonald's was for a limited time adding a Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry to their menu, they instantly had my undivided attention. I have to admit, strawberry shortcake is one of my favorite desserts. However, when you add ice cream to the mix you are taking it to the next level.

Photo: Fester/BBGI
If you don't know what a McFlurry is , it is essentially a blended ice cream and topping concoction. Similar to a Dairy Queen Blizzard or a Culver's Concert. Currently, the Golden Arches offers Oreo and M&M flavor McFlurry.
If you've ever had a McDonald's McFlurry then you know that with each one you get a marvel of modern design, the spoon. The McFlurry spoon is used not only as the transportation vessel for the McFlurry from the cup to your mouth, it is also the tool used to mix the McFlurry.
After ordering, first thing I noticed is that McDonald's has really reduced the size of the McFlurry in recent years. After forking over my money, I received my treat, The first thing I saw were these pink chunks blended into my ice cream. These pink chunks were the beginning and the end of all strawberry flavor.

Photo: Fester/BBGI
These pink chunks were just a strawberry candy covered crunchy rice cereal. No strawberry sauce, certainly nothing that even resembled an actual strawberry, just the crispy chunks. At best the strawberry flavor was mediocre. While other McFlurry flavors, like chunky M&M's or Oreo have a stronger flavor in the vanilla ice cream than the strawberry shortcake does.

Photo: Fester/BBGI
When the machines are working properly, McDonald's has always had a "good enough" ice cream to offer their customers. but the crispy strawberry flavored chunks left a waxy feel in my mouth. I can only compare that waxy mouth feeling to disappointment. After, eating the entire thing, I was ready to render my opinion on the new dessert. It's just Okay. That's it. Sure, go ahead, try one, but don't expect something that will change your life, it won't. It won't because it is just average, maybe below average. It could have been so much better, so much more stawberrier, but it wasn't.
Grand Opening Events For The Sound Amphitheater In Clearwater
We're counting down the days until Tampa Bay's newest concert venue is open. To celebrate their opening, The Sound amphitheater in Clearwater is going to be hosting a weeklong series of events. The first five shows for the new venue have already been announced. What else does the new venue have in store?
The new Clearwater venue is managed by Ruth Eckerd Hall. According to the Tampa Bay Times, they are in charge of booking events, managing food and beverage, and oversee staffing. The $84 million dollar project will be built to have 4,000 covered seats and 5,000 lawn seats. The amphitheater is expected to host a number of events from concerts, graduations, and other community events. Here are some other fun things to know about The Sound.
Ruth Eckerd Hall CEO Susan Crockett told the Tampa Bay Times "Clearwater will truly be celebrating with a wonderful grand opening week that offers something for everyone." If you're interested in checking out any of these events, head to TheSoundFLA.com for tickets!
Here are the grand opening events for The Sound Amphitheater In Clearwater
June 28
The first concert at The Sound is going to be a FREE event! More details to be announced soon from Ruth Eckerd Hall. There will also be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 5pm.

Photo: City of Clearwater
June 29
The second event for the grand opening weekend will be a multicultural market. Clearwater is celebrating diversity by hosting local crafters, as well as dance troupes and musicians showcasing their talents. Kids are welcome to come with many family friendly activities like inflatables and face painting. The night will end with a community concert featuring local band The Black Honkeys Band.
June 30
The Sound's first weekend kick off is going to be fun for the whole family. Come by and see the craft beer garden, street entertainment, children's activities, and plenty of local food trucks to keep your belly full! The night will end with a concert featuring Grammy winner Colbie Caillat and singer Gavin DeGraw starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $9-$99 and will go on sale April 14 at 10 a.m. at rutheckerdhall.com and the ticket office by calling 727-791-7400.

(Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images for EarthX)
July 1
July 1st is Community Day! The day starts with a 5K, then enjoy some brews at the craft beer garden. Local performances will be happening all day on The Green. The night ends with a concert at 7pm featuring Grammy nominee Dave Koz with special guests Candy Dulfer and Eric Darius. Tickets are $9-$50 at rutheckerdHall.com.
July 2
Want to learn how to salsa? The first ever Hispanic Culture Celebration at The Sound will be taking place on July 2nd. There will be dance classes, local music, and Hispanic cuisine from local food trucks. The day wraps up with a concert with Peter Frampton at 4p. You can grab tickets at rutheckerdHall.com.
July 4
The Grand Opening celebration ends on July 4th. The Sound might become one of the best places to watch 4th of July fireworks. The day starts with a classic car show, farmers market, followed by the "largest fireworks display in Clearwater accompanied by the Florida Orchestra." Stick around after the fireworks for a silent disco party!

(Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)