Viva Las Vegas - QOTD #20

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“It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.”
  - Ernest Hemingway

*****

Going away for the weekend.
Celebrating a 21st birthday. It will be fun!!

Look for updates and photos on Instagram!

See you next week.

xoxo

Recap of two weeks....

Lunch at Cucina Enoteca is always fun.
My love for Italian food is endless. Unfortunately, when you are forced to live a gluten free life because otherwise you end up in pain 24/7, you are scared to go to Italian restaurants. Most places offer pasta, pizza, and some more pasta and pizza. I know for a fact that Italian food doesn't only consist of pasta and pizza, yet, some places think differently. Cucina Enoteca isn't fully Italian - it is Californian Italian. So I cheated. They have great appetizers and yes, even gluten free Penne available (upon request). I was a lucky girl!

Cucina Enoteca has two locations; one in Del Mar and one in Irvine. It opens up its third location in Newport Beach at Fashion Island this year - I am hoping sooner than later. If you want to experience a different kind of Italian but very close to Italian I recommend this restaurant.

I found a new tea store. At first I wasn't excited but then I saw the names of the teas available....I had to take a photo...I'd like the Mary Poppins Blend please! Plus I tried their teas and oh wow was I wrong. So good, and so different - did I mention they only sell tea leaves? Yes. So if you are a tea lover or know someone that is I say go check Lily Chai Tea out.

If you follow me on Instagram you saw this lovely and very rare photo of me (I am working on taking more me-pictures; promised).

I finally went to a blow bar and had my very first (yes yes) blow experience. ;)

According to this photo it was more of a curl experience but they still washed, dried, and styled my hair beautifully. I have lots of hair but thin hair so it's never fun for me to work on my own hair...having someone work on it who knows how was such a fun experience. I went to MyBlow L.A. and had a fabulous time.
Never mind the bathroom picture...after my fun blow experience I went out of town with my favorite person, so this was the only chance I got to take a selfie of me that captured my hair.

February in Southern California has been a mixture of hot and cold. Lately more of a warm up. In the mornings it is super freezing but once 11am hits it warms up quickly. As an avid school-goer I felt like wearing my favorite sweater, jeans, and grabbed my chucks for a chance. Also, never to be missed....my music, hence the cord you see. :) Ten minutes after this photo was taken I was happy to finally be closer to home and change into something lighter.

 

This has pretty much been my past two weeks. I also went to the dentist, splurged on shopping (new bag, new tops, new nails) and felt good afterwards. I haven't gone shopping in months (as in almost one fully year!). So, going out on my own, not looking at time and just browsing and looking for new tops and possible outfits felt great. I found what I was looking for.

As this month is coming to an end I have a few things to look forward to this week as well. I'm going to Vegas soon. Before that I will have a wonderful week with get-togethers, and no tests or homework that are due. I will be a happy girl!!!

Have a fabulous Monday everyone!

Linking up with Leeann and Kimberlee for Monday Morning Gossip.

I got Nominated!

It has been a while that I got nominated. This week I received the Liebster Award from the lovely Monic over at Simply Sutter! Thank you, girl. I'm so stoked. A while back I stopped participating in award giving and what not, but this year I feel it is time to change this. So, I'm more than just happy to share this award with all of my readers by answering the following questions, revealing a few random facts about me, and then nominating fellow bloggers to do the same.

Here goes nothing. :)

11 Facts About Myself

 

1) I used to row. Yes. Little me, did. :)
2) I am gluten intolerant; luckily not celiac (yet!).

3) I'm short, 5'2'', and I love it.

4) I cannot stand rap music.

5) I am an only child.

6) I grew up in Switzerland.

7) My arms are slightly double jointed.

8) I used to stutter - still do but not as much anymore.

9) My favorite person is much younger than I am.

10) I hate chocolate and peanut butter. Yuck.

11) I have no tattoos.

 

 

Questions I was Asked

1. What did you want to be when you were little?

A teacher and then a lawyer. 

 

2. Do you have any hidden talents?

My friend said I am an electric dictionary...switching between 3 to 4 languages at times.
I guess this counts as a hidden talent.

 

3. Could you go without technology?

 I could go without my smart phone but not without a mobile phone. ;)

Both TV and Internet gone? 

Can't do that. I need my morning news station and the Internet for school and work.

So, this means NO!

4. Cake or Ice Cream?

Hands down cake.
However, being gluten intolerant now...it's hard to find a great gf cake. :(

 

5. Hardest thing about blogging?

To keep up reading other blogs and engaging with others.
Blogging is fun but oh so time-consuming.

 

6. Best piece of advice?

Be Yourself and NEVER ever change for anyone but only you.

 

7. Are you a cat or dog person?

Dog person.

 

8. Best gift you have ever been given?

A trip to New York City to my 18th Birthday. 

 

9. Are you reading anything currently?

My math book (yuck), and several books (go check them out on Goodreads). 

 

10. What type of music do yo listen to?

 Almost anything...from classic, country, to current stuff. 

I'm a total alternative music girl with a hint of super oldies...1920-1968. Yay!

 

11. If you were granted one wish what would it be?

Getting the opportunity to work in my field right this second and not having

 to worry about anything anymore thanks to that.

My Questions

1. Why did you start blogging?

2. What is your favorite quote and why?

3. What makes you laugh out loud?

4. What is your absolute favorite TV show you cannot miss at all?

5. What pet peeve do you have?

6. What is the LAST concert you went to?

7. Do you get nervous before doctors' appointments? Why/Why not?

8. What three things did you buy yesterday?

9. Do you love where you live?

10. What is your guilty pleasure?

11. What is the ONE thing you look forward to this year, and why?

 

 

 5 I Nominate ..

 

  Leia @ Latitude Adjustment

Sam @ The Married Couple

Jennifer @ Crazy Shenanigans 

Erin @ Live & Love L.A.

Carol @ Everyday Delights

 

 Thank you Monic for giving me this award. :)

Have a happy Friday!!!

xoxo

Girlfriends - QOTD #19

Good morning my lovelies,

It's been a while. I have been away and enjoyed a fabulous weekend away from home. My long weekend started Wednesday of last week at 12.15pm. Needless to say I was super stoked to start my long weekend so early. More details on this long weekend with photos later on. I mean, I promised to update and share more this year so I will keep this promise. :)

This weekend has officially started again. I'm mostly looking forward to seeing my bestie again. It may just be for a day but it's better than never! So, here's to a wonderful day with my bestie. Cannot wait to hang out, chitchat, shop, and just have a fabulous time.

*edit of 2/21/14 - unfortunately my bestie had to cancel and we could not get together at all. :( 

Any fun plans for you?! 

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  “Life is an awful, ugly place to not have a best friend.” - Sarah Dessen, Someone Like You 

Have a Great Weekend aka Happy Valentine's Day Weekend!

Despite the fact that I do not like Valentine's Day I am still a romantic girl. I love pink. I love flowers. I love candles, and kitschy music, little notes, and what not. This weekend will not be different. I will have a great time I am sure (yes, I'll be gone for a few days) but I will not engage in the craziness of this so-called love day. However, a little romantic thinking or additional pink collage creation never hurts - so here we go. Here's my Valentine's Day collection. I really would not mind owning all of these; especially the Kate Spade purse.

Valentine's Day Pink 2014 by crazylittleworldofmine

Love - QOTD #18

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“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
  - Laozi

***

 Happy Valentine's Day Weekend.
As you know I don't like this so-called "holiday". 

It is just yet another day where we are forced to show our loved ones that we care about them. 

What happened to all the other 364 days? Do we hate them then? Seriously.

Despite it being this pink holiday weekend, it is also a holiday weekend in general that gave me an extra day off from school. So excited. I should seriously look into working at schools.
If you got off, and live in the US that is, do you have anything fun planned or are you stuck working?

As for me, I'll be out of town for a while with my favorite person.

We may even drive to Disneyland (which isn't that far away from where are) and say hello to Mickey.

Yet, besides that we just wanted to enjoy the extra day off from school. Yay!

I'll talk to you next week again.

xoxo

Healthy Eating on a Budget

 

Most people have the notion that healthy eating is difficult to maintain, not to mention expensive, but it’s actually the other way around. It may be expensive compared to the common unhealthy choices available, but these unhealthy choices may lead to expensive medical problems in the long run…. so do the math.  It’s also easy to maintain healthy eating, as long as you know where to shop and how to shop wisely. Here are several tips that can help keep your food budget intact, while providing yourself with all the healthy nutrients you need.

Plan your meal

Meal planning is one of the best ways to stay on budget, while allowing you to monitor your selection of healthy food choices. It can also reduce the time it takes to shop and prepare for food. Try to prepare manageably-sized portions of food to control your intake of calories, as well as to be able to use your leftovers for additional meals. One-pot dishes such as casseroles, soups and stews can make great leftovers. For example, you can turn that additional stew into tasty burritos for tomorrow’s lunch.

Shop wisely

Healthy eating and sticking to your food budget can be easier than you think. It all comes down to how good you are in choosing the right store and shopping wisely.  Here are some tips:

• Discount stores - There are several discount stores or warehouse clubs that offer great bargains for fresh produce and meats. Products that are in season are often cheaper in these stores, but proper meal planning is needed since they are offered in bulk or large portions.

• Farmer’s market - Many cities host a weekly farmer’s market, where local farmers offer their products at reasonable prices. Some farmers offer cheaper prices for perishable items, especially at the end of the day or at the end of the season.

• Generic or store brands - Generic brands are more economical than products with brand names. They have the same quality product with less advertising and packaging costs.

• Take advantage of coupons offered - Couponing is also a great way to save money without compromising healthy food options. There are numerous supermarkets that offer cheaper products by using coupons, which can be printed from their website or through magazines and newspapers.

• Get customer card - Supermarkets and grocery stores offer customer cards that provide additional discounts on purchased items. Some even hold sales exclusively for customer card holders.

Order non-perishable in bulk

Though this idea can look expensive because of the upfront cost, it can actually save more money in the long run. Dried beans, grains, canned foods, herbal teas and olive oil are a few non-perishables items that can be purchased in large packages.

Grow your own food

Even if you have limited space in your yard, growing vegetables can be doable. This will allow you to have the freshest ingredients on hand, while keeping the food budget down. Some cities also offer garden plots for rent, which can be convenient if you don’t have the space. There are also books and online articles that instruct you on how to maximize space in small yards and manage container gardening.

Have your own livestock

Having your own livestock such as chickens, pigs or cattle can significantly cut down on your food bill. However, this may not be feasible if you only have a small backyard. Chickens can be easily raised even if you have a small space.  Additionally, there are some farmers that offer grass-fed beef at much cheaper prices than the supermarkets.

Healthy cost-effective choices

Foods that are fresh and nutritious can be expensive compared to commonly available foods on the market today. Here are several tips on choosing healthy food options:

• Meat - Choose cheaper cuts of meat, which can be used for more meals such as casseroles, stews, soup and sauces. You can add in extra vegetables for more hearty and filling dishes.

• Vegetables - Some vegetables can be expensive, but there are ways you can get their key nutrients at a reasonable cost. Leafy greens, such as kale and collard, are just few superfoods that can be bought cheaply. Frozen vegetables are also great choices since they are usually picked and frozen at their peak of ripeness, making them nutritionally dense.

• Fruits - It is best to purchase fruits that are in season to ensure you’ll be getting optimum nutrition and taste. Canned fruits can also be handy additions for last-minute meals. Some fruits that are cost-efficient include watermelon, bananas and pears.

• Drinks - Cutting down on unhealthy drinks -- such as sodas, canned drinks and processed juices -- can free up extra cash for much healthier choices. These beverages don’t offer much nutrition and are often expensive to boot. Water is the safest, most nutritious and most economical beverage around, but if you’re not too keen on drinking water all the time, you can alternate it with other healthy options. Herbal teas, for example, have lots of nutrients and antioxidants that can be beneficial to your body. 

David Novak’s byline has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the world.  He’s an avid health enthusiast, and frequently is featured in regional and national health publications. He is also a weekly writer for Healthline.  To visit his other stories on Healthline, visit http://www.healthline.com/. 

Positivity

Hi lovelies,

How was your weekend? I hope it was good.
Mine was okay. I mostly had my left hand wrapped (and still do) - I think I should see a doctor but don't want to because I know what I have. :( Time will heal it all. Ha!

Also, remember last week's MMG post?

Well, I went to an official getaway party Sunday afternoon. It was the funniest and the most bittersweet day of this year so far. We laughed, we sang (how did that happen?), we ate, drank, and talked, and held back tears. I always refused to fully ask my friend where he was going to. I had a feeling I would hear an answer I didn't like. Turns out, the answer I finally got yesterday was really one I did not want to hear. The mixed feelings we all had earlier intensified. Greatly.

Yes, good vibes are needed. Starting next week for an entire year. Not just for him. For everyone who is going, has gone and will go again. Good vibes are always needed. Argh, why oh why. 

Happy Monday everyone.
I'm gonna put more ice on my hand...just typing this was a torture. 

xoxo

And yes, I'm linking up with Monday Morning Gossip with Leeann and Kimberlee.

Friday Fancies - February Theme

River Island shell top  / Kate Spade zip top / Kate Spade kohl jewelry  / Kate Spade bracelet bangle / Michael Kors eau de perfume

This month's theme on Long Distance Loving is all about Valentine's Day.  

I never cared about Valentine's Day. Nothing has changed this year. I don't get this day. Yes, apparently it's a day lovers show their appreciation for one another because, well, they can't on any other day. Seriously. I don't like this day. Also, this day reminds me of my late cousin who sadly won't celebrate her 23rd birthday that day. So, no - Vday is not for me.

I have to admit I am going on a date this year...but that's about it. I will dress pretty much what I shared above because well, that's my style. I love pink, I love comfort...and black! :) Pink and Black go so well together, no?!

Happy weekend everyone!!!

xoxo

Reality is Better - QOTD #17

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“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”
― Dr. Seuss

****

 This is true.

However, I can happily fall asleep. 

I don't dream but I think that's okay.
At least I hope it is okay.

My weekend has already started.
I am studying math, and reading some books on human behavior.

Also, a date is in near sight...let's say tomorrow.
I'm excited. 

Really, there's nothing more fun than spending an evening watching a movie with my favorite person.

And maybe holding a glass of wine...just saying.

Any fun plans coming up in your life?

xoxo

My love for pink....

It is no secret that I love pink. Purple trumps pink but my love for pink is eternal. I cannot explain how girlie I become when I see the perfect shade of pink that fits with whatever mood I am in. It's a combination. It's not just pink. It's not any pink either. It just needs to fit. With Valentine's Day approaching - those of you who celebrate, are you ready?! - I thought it was appropriate to share my love for this lovely girlie color. 

Do you love pink? Or dislike it as much as other people?
Which color is your ultimate favorite when it comes to love?

Nine more days my lovely readers, nine more days.
Unless you are like me...I don't give a you know what.

Have a fantastic day.

Facts about E-Cigarettes & What You Need to Know

Electronic cigarettes were invented in the 1960s but they have only recently become more popular. Today there are more than 250 brands of e-cigarettes from many websites including 21stCenturySmoke.com that have a variety of e-cigarettes to choose from. Amazingly enough The Tobacco Vapor electronic Cigarette Association estimates that about 4 million Americans use battery powered cigarettes and those sales will continue to rise. So what do you think of the e-cig trend and will you be trying it?

 

What are E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes are battery operated nicotine inhalers that consists of a rechargeable lithium battery, a LED light and a cartridge. The caromizer, or cartridge is filled with an e-liquid that usually has chemical propylene glycol and nicotine and of course the flavoring of your choice. E-cigs work similar to small version of a smoke machine that comes from rock bands. A heat element essentially heats up the e-liquid until it produces vapor.

 

E-cigs are Much More Affordable than Cigarettes

If you’re wondering about the price comparison of e-cigs verses traditional cigarettes, starter kids are usually between $30 and $100. Traditional cigarettes cost more than $1000 a year if you use almost a pack a day of cigarettes. A replacement pack for e-cigs can cost up to $600, but this still does not add up to the $1000 and more spent on cigarettes a year. Let’s not forget the discount codes that you can use on electronic cigarettes only which will also help you reduce money. Weigh your options and also don’t forget the health risks, which are outlined next.

 

Health Risks

You’re probably also curious to find out if there are any health concerns with smoking e-cigs, and the truth is that at this time evidence is not conclusive. Obviously doctors will tell you that only breathing in fresh air is the safest way to care for your body, but keep in mind that electronic cigarettes are a lot healthier than traditional smoking. Traditional smoking can result in cancer, allows your loved ones to suffer from second hand smoke, ruins your home, and not to mention makes your clothing stink with smoke. Now which form of smoking seems healthier?!

So now that you know more about e-cigs what is your opinion on them and if you’re a smoker would you rather give e-cigs a try as a healthier alternative?

About the Author:  Sierra is a writer at Ocean Dreams blog and she enjoys writing about a variety of topics, including topics that help educate!

Monday Morning Gossip - I will miss you!!

There are certain topics on this blog I simply don't discuss. It is not because I don't want to but I feel it is not my place to talk about them because well, I cannot change anything or make anything happen with what I'm saying. Maybe I am wrong. Maybe I am right.

A while back, last year around September, I learned that a dear friend of mine might get deployed overseas. It was a huge might because he said technically he is good to go but there were people ahead of him and if they get chosen he has to wait or what not. So he shrugged it off and we all did but this idea of him getting deployed always lingered. About two weeks ago he got the news that it is now official and that he is leaving. 

Mixed feelings occurred. On one hand it is something he always wanted to do and it is something he has been working on and for. It is his job. Yet on the other hand I just don't think he deserves going. Might sound selfish but I never had a very close friend get deployed. I had friends who did but they never fully meant much (ok, sounds harsh...but let's just say we weren't that close of friends). Yet with him, it is different. He's a very close friend - almost like a brother to me. I just cannot see him leave. Yet, well, it is his job and it is time for him to follow through with what he had started a while ago.

With that being said...he has a little more than two weeks left in California and then he is going overseas. We all have mixed feelings about this. He is however optimistic and happy, and I believe that is all that counts. No?

So, when I see videos or hear stories of soldiers returning home it just makes me happy and sad at the same time. I cannot wait to see him a few more times before he leaves and cannot wait for him to come back so he can enjoy our lovely and kitschy welcome home poster!!! We promised him this two years ago and I keep my promises - no matter what!

This is my Monday Morning Gossip of today or this week.
I came across the following clip and yes, I'm sure most of you have seen this before...or a similar one. It just touches my heart. The tissues I had were simply not enough.

Linking up with Monday Morning Gossip over at Leeann's!

Happy Monday and have a fabulous start into this week!

xoxo

Hello February!!!

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Happy February!!!

This month will be a short one - only 28 days!

So much is happening this month.

** Valentine's Day Weekend I'm going away with my favorite person.
We both hate V-Day so this trip has nothing to do with the love day. Nothing.

** More job search - the main issue I have is to focus and find one.
My majors are so broad it's actually fantastic but at the same time I just can't pick an area.
Darn it. In the end, watch me, I'm going back to the hospitality industry....no no no.

** I want to change up my blog and its content. I have a feeling it's been just blahhhhh

Any ideas in that department? Please email or comment below.

** Las Vegas trip by the end of this month...I cannot wait.
I won't gamble nor go nuts in clubs because I hate clubs.
I am going to a concert I always wanted to go to (and no it's not Britney Spears!!)...

...will be in that city after a very very long time, and already found out that I cannot eat anything but mozzarella and tomato salad for my friend's birthday dinner...I feel unlucky - unless I win money and can order something for $40, then yes, no salad but a hot meal.

February will be fun but very short.

What about you?
Anything to look forward to?