A Quick Hello

Hi my lovely readers,

I am still around. I promise. It was very necessary for me to take time off and to focus on me for a while. I have missed this community, this space of mine to read and write and share my thoughts. Yet, sometimes, a hiatus is needed and mine was long overdue. 

Winter has finally arrived in my neck of the woods, and I cannot be more thrilled. Cold, foggy mornings to wake up to is an amazing experience. It won't snow where I am at, but frost is definitely happening and I believe it is around the corner. Yay!!! This holiday season, like many more to come, will be bittersweet. It is what it is. All I can do is cherish the moments, the memories, and the stories shared. I won't let my favorite time of the year get ruined by my sad heart. Sadness is okay, we all need to let it in, but to allow it to take over is a big mistake. I am working on this on a daily basis, and I am improving beautifully. One day I'll look back, chuckling, thinking of how awful I felt and how far I have come in my journey with grief. Looking at my tiny Christmas tree gives me joy and hope, and that is really all I need this time around.

With that being shared I hope you are having a fabulous holiday season, whether or not you celebrate. Make the time to spend it with friends and family, no matter what. Cherish the moments you experience, smile, hug each other, and laugh so much you have to cry {it's the best part ever!}.

I shall see you all next year...until then, don't forget about me...just pretend I am Santa being busy and all. :)

xox

Merry Christmas From Me to You

I am celebrating Christmas with family and I am hoping for snow on Christmas Eve and Morning. So far so good. Our forecast predicted some tomorrow. Let's hope it will come true. With us being busy preparing dinner, dessert, breakfast, and fun memories I will be offline for the rest of this week. I hope you understand.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from my side of the world to your side of the world. However you celebrate {or not} I hope this week brings happiness to your homes and laughter to your loved ones. 

xo

P.s. My Instagram will be filled with things I won't have time to share on here. So follow along. I am looking forward to seeing you there. Merry Christmas!

Gift Ideas for the Hostess #4

We are approaching the happiest time of year pretty soon my lovely readers. It is next week. It may be the 16th today but next week is when Christmas knocks on most of our doors. If you are still invited to a holiday party, or your mom decides to invite the whole neighborhood so you can meet Mr Right {you never know...}, then don't forget to bring something with you when you attend as a sign of appreciation and a thank you. After all, you aren't going just to eat and drink, right?!

Love the decanter {can you tell I love wine?!}, the chalkboard, the NYC coasters, and yes, even the lip balm set. You cannot go wrong with any of these. Even just a nail polish can make anyone's day. Plus, even if you are not invited to any party but you are attending a family dinner this holiday season you can still bring your mom, your dad, your siblings, aunt, grandparents, or even in-laws something. Look at it as a special holiday present; just showing your gratitude and happiness to be part of that special event {whatever if may be}.

Have an amazing day my lovely readers.

If you are in need of more ideas check out my last three ideas 1 | 2 | 3

It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year

This season is my favorite. Winter may not be my best friend but the holiday season itself makes my heart warm and fuzzy. I don't see it as stressful. I see it as a time to wrap up a year; a time to come together and cherish each other; a time to feel at ease; a time to feel cozy and bundle up; a time to drink warm drinks and not get hot flashes; a time to feel elegant and a time to not only receive but to give back! 

November and December both make me more creative. The Internet is full of unique ideas; ideas to make this time of year more festive, more cute, and more wonderful. To get a glimpse of what made my heart melt this holiday season and what got my mind going to enlighten our home I am sharing with you photos I put together on my Pinterest boards. 

The bridge above is in my hometown. I love this bridge. I love that they have put it back up again this year. Several of my friends took photos of it and shared it with me so I know my city is glowing once more with this beautifully decorated bridge.

Decorative pillows are my favorite thing this season. They brighten up any couch, and add a festive touch to the home. Wreaths and anything with red makes my heart very happy as well.

Writing on windows is my favorite thing to do during the winter season. The windows need a wash anyways, so why not have fun with them? I am huge on candles. Unfortunately, with two kittens in the house we have to be careful but so far so good. They love the Christmas tree, the lights, and do not seem to be bothered or irritated by them. My happy holiday time did not get ruined.

Have you gone out and about this holiday season? 

Did you start something new or stick to the old items you had on hand?! 

Whatever you chose to do I am sure if looks fabulous.

Have an amazing day. Go out and smile.
After all it is the most wonderful time of the year.

xoxo

Gift Ideas for the Hostess #3

It's another week closer to Christmas and another possibility to get invited to yet another party. There was once a year where I was invited to at least five parties in two weeks. Plus, the invites came pretty much three days before the event. Either people got really spontaneous or they just forgot to invite me, OR they heard my gifts were amazing so they decided to host a party! HA! 

It is not easy to find the right gift for anyone. If you don't know the host or hostess it is even harder. In that case I would go with the easiest: flower, chocolate, or {best one} a bottle of good red wine. When you know the host or hostess you can cater towards their hobby, style, or likes. One of my friends is a huge Italian food lover. She threw an early holiday/birthday/house warming party and I knew I was going to get her a big basket of lots of Italian goodies. I found this amazing store that only sells specialties from Italy...it got pricey but it was so worth it. I did combine all three events in one basket, so in a way it wasn't that pricey after all. :)

Look at these beauties.You can never go wrong with a holiday inspired ornament, or a cheese/meat board. Look at this cure and fuzzy throw {sold out unfortunately}, and the sparkly decanter. There are so many options. No need to go all fancy. Again, it depends on who invites you and what you know about the person. Now, excuse myself while I am headed over to Nordstrom's to get those copper mugs. 

Can you believe we are almost hitting mid-month?! Unbelievable. Are you done with holiday gift shopping, or are you getting mostly stuff done now or last minute?! There is nothing wrong with that. I once experienced first hand that last minute presents can be in fact better and more fun than early bought presents. :)

More ideas can be found here and here

Have an amazing day!!!

Gift Ideas for the Hostess #2

Another week, another idea for more gifts. This month is long and it should end with fun celebrations. Plus, to bring a gift has never been not accepted. At least I never heard of that. 

Are you going to party your friend is hosting, your co-worker invited you to, or your mother wants you to attend so you can finally meet so-and-so?! Here are a few more ideas of what you can bring to make your hosts happy!!! 

How about the ornament? I love getting a new ornament each year. Or fun glassware? Or pour spouts, or a vase? How about a fun tea towels; they always brighten my day. So many things to bring your host, so many possibilities to brighter anyone's day this holiday season.

Missed the last round? Don't worry, I have you covered here. :)

Gift Ideas for the Hostess

With the holidays around the corner there is a chance that we get invited to a party or two. Whether it is one held by your work, your best friend, your parents, or a friend of a friend you will be a guest. I was taught to always bring a gift to the host or/and hostess. It doesn't have to be anything special; something small, like a cute napkin, flowers, or a bottle of your favorite wine would do the trick. It shows your appreciation to the hosts and once you are the one giving a party you would probably want something cute in return as well. I definitely say never no.

I'd definitely say yes to the pillows, an ornament, candles and any bottle of wine. Depending on the event I have seen people being very creative with their gifts. I love the fall-winter coasters, and unfortunately it is something I don't see people use as often anymore. Maybe I am hanging out with the wrong crowds? Coasters are so much fun! I brought once a unique bottle holder to an event and it was the best gift that evening; that is if you know the hosts and their love for wine. ;) 

Are you invited to a holiday party, a get-together of some sorts this time of year!? If so, and you are not sure what to bring, don't feel overwhelmed. Sometimes simpler is better.

Happy early Thanksgiving my lovely readers!!!
Whether or not you are celebrating know that I am very thankful for you!

xoxo

Happy Holidays

Have an amazing Christmas Week!

Have it filled with laughter, love, family, friends, food, drinks, music, and presents {of course}. Indulge in some quiet time, don't get into arguments, and enjoy every moment {even in onesies and comfy socks}. Give hugs, smile and have an awesome time!

Merry Christmas!

New Year, New {almost} Everything!

I know it is still December and 2015 hasn't even begun. Yet, it was time to change a few things on here and if you have been around for a while you know it was really time. Seriously; it took me forever. My layout is almost finished. I wanted it to be girlie, polka dotted, with a hue of gold, simple and clean. I got rid of a lot of clutter and I am still working on it. It's a constant work in progress but it's fun to rearrange things. What do you think so far?

In other news, Christmas is around the corner, Hanukkah started last week and I am getting sick. My sore throat is getting worse. I blame my amazing friend down in Southern California. I visited her for her birthday last week, hence my absence. I flew down to celebrate her birthday, had a blast, flew back to my favorite person and am now dealing with signs of a nasty cold rolling in. Fingers crossed I am stronger than that cold.

With the New Year approaching rather fast I really wanted to change a few things...not just on the blog but also in my life. It's a weird {and more than just often not thought and acted through} cliche that we make up lists and resolutions when a new year rolls in. Yet, I still want to believe in a better, more fun, and happier year. I started with changing up the blog, my thoughts, creating a creative corner at home, and will work on my fitness starting right after Christmas. Cannot wait. 2014 will end beautifully, and 2015 will start golden.

Do you have any last minute resolutions to complete this year?!

image via here

What To Do During the Holidays when on a Special Diet

As the holidays crawl nearer {yes, crawl} most of us have parties to attend. Whether it is a party with friends, coworkers, family, or as a plus one...there's always some sort of a party people go to. Plus, if you are not hosting it is even more fun to enjoy the festivities. Just saying.

But what do you do when you are on a special diet? I am not talking about the constant diet most of us are on to lose a few pounds here and there so we fit back into our favorite jeans or the bikini we want to wear on an upcoming trip. I am talking about a constant diet more people have to live on because they are allergic to certain ingredients, or of course, the diet people believe in is the best and healthiest. I am allergic to gluten, and slightly tend to even have issues with contamination but my doctor said I should not worry yet {oh, thank you}. I know people who are allergic to nuts, diary, citric acid {which I think is worse than gluten}, or just allergic to certain fruits or other stuff. The list goes on. What do you do then? Unless you are lucky enough to have open-minded family or friends, or your friends and family are allergic as well {ha, that would be nice} attending a holiday party can be dreadful. If you are the host and you know you will have guests over who have allergies or require dietary restrictions...well, it's pretty much as dreadful, but it's all doable.

Here's a few tips I found over time that will help both sides to overcome the dreadful thought to disappoint anyone with or without an allergy or dietary preference:

When you are the host

- be direct and ask your friends about any allergies or preferences when you sent the invite; after all it's your party and you want to be a successful host pleasing friends and not making them sick and ruin the experience. Plus, with all this holiday craziness it's easy to forget to mention it. So, ask away in order to plan ahead and have fun hosting your holiday party.

- if your guests offer to help you with dishes or ask if they can prepare a dish that's specifically gluten free for example, by all means, accept that offer. Who wouldn't want help. 

- keep it simple. If it's your friends they will already love what you are going to offer them. They will eat what will be on those plates and in those pitchers {unless you are like me having no pitchers but the wine bottles ready!}. Don't overdo it. Don't go overboard by pleasing everyone by creating two kinds of the same dishes but with different pasta {gluten free and regular pasta}. Just make one. It will get eaten.

- ask for help. If you can't do it all or feel you are at a loss, ask your friends to help you out. It never hurts to ask is what most people live by, so when it comes to making a holiday party as fun and as eventful as ever, just ask and don't get too stressed. You won't be grated.

When you are the guest

- be direct and let the host know that you have an allergy. I am sure that if the host is your friend she/he already knows, but if it's another party don't hesitate too long to let them know. It's worse when you refuse food on the day of the party. It's kind of an insult.

- offer to help or bring a dish or two, and explain to the host why you would like to help out. Don't just show up with a dish in your hand {unless it's a potluck of course}. Help is always appreciated. When it comes to special ingredients, dietary preferences etc the host is not familiar with it's easier to bring/make something you know will work. Takes the pressure off the host. Trust me.

- if there's food or drinks you cannot have at a party, and you weren't as fortunate to help or bring something and no one considered your allergy {this sadly happens all the time} be a good sport. Don't frown, don't be upset {even though you will be} but instead go with the flow. Don't eat what you shouldn't but eat what you can. If the carrot and celery sticks are the only things you can eat, do so. Politely say no to anything else offered to you, drink the drinks you can and don't hesitate to ask what's in something. I mean, it's what it is. No one wants to be rushed to the ER because of a nut allergy or something else upsetting your body. So, be a good sport.

- bring back up. I always have a Kind Bar with me when I go somewhere, or a tangerine. They easily fit into any purse and allow me to feel full, get the nutrients I need and won't upset my body at all. Don't eat those items in front of your host but if you really cannot help and can't find anything that fits your special diet, then sneak in a bite or two in the bathroom {if you really really have to} or quickly go out to the car and eat it.

I have had my own share of awkwardness when it came to hosting parties or attending parties. I had to sneak in a fruit bar one time because I knew the hostess didn't care about anyone who had allergies. It's also hard for Swiss people to change their habits, or think ahead. Don't want to point fingers but I have great friends who do remember but I remember last summer I was invited to my friend's place for dinner and of course she forgot I couldn't have "normal" spaghetti. It's a mistake, and I was okay with her forgetting it all but it's been tough. Luckily she had wine. Just saying. :)

I will be possibly attending two parties this weekend {one for sure} and it won't be easy. One will be a bowling party and we all know that bowling alleys NEVER have healthy food. If you know of a place that does please let me know but all I know is bowling places have fried stuff and that jazz. Not for me. Not even a hot dog would be okay, sadly. So wish me luck. It'll be a fantastic weekend I know but it will be a tad bit difficult for me to fill my hungry gut. Fingers crossed.

Any fun plans for this weekend?
Do you have allergies or prefer a certain diet and have come across some difficulties? Fill us in.

Happy Holidays, whether you have an allergy or are on a special diet. Enjoy it to the fullest and don't overeat. ;)

xoxo

image via a family feast
buffet image via better home and garden
wine image via people

Holiday Presents for the Man You Love

(via)

Sometimes it can be difficult figuring out what to get your husband or boyfriend for Christmas. They may think they’re easy to shop for, but you know better. You don’t want to be stuck buying them some new socks or another favorite gift card. It’s time to think outside the box and come up with some Christmas gifts that he will love. He’ll be impressed if you take the time to come up with a few gifts that he didn’t even know he wanted. With some creativity you’ll have some incredible gifts wrapped and placed under the tree, and he’ll be eager to open them during the holidays.

The Right Pair of Jeans

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Whether he wants a double knee dungaree for when he’s on the farm, rugged, trendy, or casual denim, a variety of styles and colors can be found on G&L Clothing. Find the right pair of jeans for your man that you know will look great on him and make him feel like a million bucks. With so many options to choose from you may even get him a few pairs of jeans, especially if he needs a new pair of two because his existing pairs are ripped.

If you’re not sure what kind of jeans he likes sneak into his closet when he isn’t looking and find out what color he likes the most. If he prefers a darker pair of jeans buy him a new pair, but with a mix of dark and light in a trendy pair he’ll really like. You should also write down his size if you don’t already know it, and remember to read online carefully whether the jeans run small or not. Find the right pair of jeans for him and he’ll feel thankful for your creativity.

A Handmade Gift 

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Your husband may not be able to admit that he loves the sentimental gifts, but deep down he loves them most of all. Make him a photo collage of you and kids or come up with a dream box with individual dreams written down on small cards that fit inside. If you’re super creative decorate the box with favorite photos, stickers, and other elements that will make the box stand out. There are also canvas photos that can be made online with a favorite family photo. A canvas photo is easy to hang up in your home and fun to wrap and stick under the tree.

Clever Sports Accessories 

(via)

If he happens to be obsessed with sports such as football, baseball, basketball, or NASCAR, it’s okay to buy some accessories that he will absolutely love and use. Whether it’s memorabilia or something he personally can use, such as a new kayak for kayaking, showing him that you support his love of sports will make him feel special. There are also other accessories you can buy him such as a new pair of court shoes, shirts for tennis and working out, and more. Perhaps you’ll even want to attend a live game with him in the near future! If this is the case buy tickets ahead of time for Christmas.

Guest post by Sierra at Simply Sierra blog

Home for the Holidays

With the holidays approaching faster than ever {or is it just me?} it is always fun to see neighborhoods decorating, commercials switching over to more festive ideas, and stores playing holiday music. I'd prefer it to be a mix of Christmas music and some regular radio music. As much as I love Christmas music I don't want to hear constant holiday cheer...it is just too much. However, a nice mix would be perfect. 

I digress...one of the best parts this season? The Samsung commercial with Kirsten Bell and Dax Shepard. I may be an Apple girl most of the time {just not the computers} but this commercial is the cutest and most festive one. Love it. So in honor of December and this holiday season...I'm sharing this video with you. I'm sure you have seen it before, and if not, you are welcome. 

Rainy Random Weekend Update

I have been MIA for the past week. It was a perfect way for me to unplug and enjoy life. I did not touch my computer once. Even though my Thanksgiving didn't turn out as planned it was still a good and long weekend. I think I have not watched this many Christmas movies or just regular films for a very long time. It felt great. I even introduced my favorite person to some films he had never watched. I had to watch a few of my favorites - so thrilled he lets me introduce films to him he may actually like. He liked this one a lot. Granted, he'd prefer action packed, bloody stuff....but well, for this holiday season he decided to go with the simple one; then again, hew as tired from working all week long {even on Thanksgiving} so he just plainly gave in. Haha! 

I could go on and tell you about the films I watched but this would end up super long and quite boring. Also, it was constantly raining so that meant I was trapped most of the time watching films until my eyes would not stay open. On Sunday however, I was a happy girl. My favorite person finally had a day off {before his entire week of vacation started} and we decided to go against the rain and see the California Automobile Museum. It was a great way to enjoy a cold and gray Sunday. Plus, when I see cars from 1906 and 1926 and 1938 I get a little weak...so much history, so much those cars could tell us...plus, that prestige they provide and the elegance they carry with them is just impeccable. Today, cars don't have this beauty about them anymore.

Just looking at these I feel the history coming back and all. I swear, I am definitely born in the wrong decade...or, as I always say, I might as well have lived in the 1930s - hair, shoes, and all.

Time to fix the leaking roof now...wish me luck. 

xoxo

Hello December

Do I need to say more?

The holiday season has officially begun.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Chrismukkah or nothing at all, December is always a month to look back at the year and look forward to something better, bigger, more phenomenal and thrilling.

With that said, go out and have fun.

Enjoy this month and make it one to remember {in a very good way!!}.
I have plans to travel and see very close friends, family and fur nephews!!

It is going to be a freezing as well as a warm winter holiday. Cannot wait.

Happy Monday!

xoxo

first image via here

Time to be Christmas Creative

Christmas has always been a big deal in my family. I grew up in a culturally mixed family though. I grew up learning what it meant to be Catholic, Muslim, and even Jewish. Yes, believe it or not. It is not something we would talk about but something we just knew and accepted. My grandfather didn't fully know what to believe in, so he made sure we all grew up open-minded, tolerant, and not tight to just one thing. You can call me or my family crazy. Today, I love the holiday season. I love it mainly because to me it means to get together with family and celebrate life. It is not about what was once written down, said, believed, celebrated and what not. This is all good, it is not me. To me, the holiday time {especially during the winter months} is a time for families. 

Also, it is time to be creative and enjoy seasonal traditions.

Christmas cookies have always been my favorite. Swiss Christmas cookies are definitely my favorites. Unfortunately I will not go home this holiday and I will miss out on all those yummy sugar treats. My gut will love me for that because they are all made out of regular wheat flour and that will hurt my tummy big time. Yet, a girl can dream. Right? 

Cookies aren't everything though. The sheer happiness I feel when I put together holiday decoration is something I cannot describe. Going out and looking for the right colors, shapes, and lights makes me warm and fuzzy. Wish we had more space to put stuff up this year. However, we both agreed on enjoying what we can put up even if it less and once we have more space we will go out and crazy with decorations. Here's a few ideas I came across or actually always wanted to do.   

 

Gifts should be wrapped. This year I want it all simple yet colorful and with a touch of gold. I'm a little obsessed with gold lately. Not sure what hit me but it could be that the super girlie in me appeared and decided to stay. I am not complaining. So, simple, unique, colorful wrapping will be done this holiday season...what do you think?

I am planning on being creative for Christmas. Are you getting ready for this holiday season?

What are you planning on doing differently? Me? Just the wrapping. Also, I had to put together a Christmas wish list for the first time ever. I had never done that before. I felt I was demanding, haha. Let's see what I get this year. But I better be getting my shopping done soon. I cannot come up with gifts, even when there is a list in front of me. It just feels weird. 

xoxo

images via 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |

Christmas Spirit in Orange County

For the longest time we have been looking for a long street with Christmas lights and what not. Up in Ventura County we knew of one street that had Christmas lights and music left and right. Not so down here in Orange County - a few houses here and there but nothing as a slow drive through an uberlit residential area. 

We finally found it. It took some researching, and some determination to make the trip. Yet, we finally managed to head out on time, stand in line and enter the fabulousness of Christmas itself. 

There's more but my ugly iPhone pictures will not do justice. It was beyond beautiful, magnificent, and just spectacular. We even sat on Santa's lap. It was what we all needed on this long weekend before Christmas. 

For more info visit THIS page. It's a fun place to go to, and to listen to songs and watch the house change colors and "dance along". If you are in Orange County and happen to drive by...stop by the house between 5-9pm. There's donuts and hot drinks waiting too...plus, it's all free. So there's nothing holding you back from experiencing the Christmas Light Craziness. Well, expect for the Grinch further down that street...all alive and walking around...

I'm linking up with Leeann and her weekly (and this year's last) Monday Morning Gossip.

Happy Monday.

xoxo

I'm Alive - Christmas Miracle Video Included

But in the meantime...I'm sleeping, cleaning, organizing, trying to find gluten free ladyfingers, playing with two white dogs, revamping my blogs, catching up on my favorite tv shows, buying last minute Christmas gifts, and trying to enjoy every single day so that I can cry later on when I find out I failed all my classes. Okay, the last part is probably not true, but I barely made it. This semester was beyond tough hence the lack of posts and comments and all.  I am so glad it is over.

I am also so glad it is Christmas time.
I went to an assistant living center in south Orange County and besides it bringing back memories I felt we did the right thing to be present, to cheer them up and let them know that they are not alone, and that they are actually special. It was an emotional day. You either had to be strong and hold those tears back, or you left quickly, bawled everything out and then returned.
After our trip we discussed what we just saw, did, and made happen and then out of nowhere one of the girls mentioned the video below. I thought I'd share this with you before I stop writing and start cleaning (ugh!). I am sure you've seen this before, or maybe even seen it on my facebook wall because I had to share this. If not, here you go. Enjoy some holiday spirit - whether or not you celebrate Christmas...it is a holiday season here...and holiday seasons are magical.

My Christmas Wishlist

Yes, I know, Christmas is three months away. However, I love Christmas. I cannot wait to decorate again, bake gluten free cookies, hear the songs, and wrap presents. Well, unwrap presents is more like it. ;) Then again I know, that's not what this holiday is all about. Let's be honest here, most of us have long lost the main and major reason behind this wonderful family fest. So I am not ashamed to talk about my holiday wish list. ;) Plus I never fully had a wish list...and now I do...so why not have fun with it?!

 {via}

What's on my wish list, you ask?!

Well...there's an iPad mini (yes I know nothing special!), a few gift certificates for my favorite stores, a Kate Spade bag, a MK bag, some more KS stuff (I love her), a nice pair of boots, new pair of earrings, a ticket to Hawaii (ha!), a ticket to Chicago (more manageable), a car (hahahaha!), snow, no drama, and a healthier and happier me. 

I think that's not too much to ask, right?
And the last few wishes are pretty much possible, too.

How about you?
Are you secretly making wish lists as well?
I may just add a few things to mine... ;) 

xoxo

******************

Today we remembered the unthinkable that happened 12 years ago. We shall never forget!!! 

That was December...

 ...remember, I wanted to update you all. I think it's time. What do you think? I know, long overdue but I thought with the year ending (and obviously not the world ending) I should look back and update a little so at least I can start 2013 beautifully. 

Let's just say my finals went well even though I had hardly any time to study. I was busy running left and right, meeting my bestie, helping with the doggies, sending Christmas cards and presents, packing, shopping, living life obviously, and attending a Christmas/Birthday party in Hollywood. I really wished having at least two bodies if not three...but I managed it all and survived. Can I get a "yay!!" YAY. 

And here are the photos.

I had had problems with my stomach for a while and went to see my doctor. 

I was told I might have an allergy but I should look into everything longer and cut certain products out of my regular/daily diet. So...I stopped eating anything that had gluten in it. Had to go indulge in some yummy pizza before I did so. And Pieology (they have gluten free dough too) spelled my name incredibly interesting. Should I start spelling it with a C now?

Turns out I might not be gluten-intolerant so I'm okay...but I'm still cutting stuff out. It's an on-off project and my pain comes back from time to time...grrrrr.

Anyways, my bestie Sierra came to California (finally) and even though we literally failed to take photos with us I found a few I took while we were shopping at The Grove. We had a blast. Girls' time is always fun and always needed!

Right before my finals started my friend's holiday party as well as birthday party was held in Hollywood. One fully weekend full of fun and all I could think of was how I could and should remember parenting styles, stages of moral development, and how The Greeks treated women and glorified war more than their own flesh and blood. So, I took all my notebooks, my flashcards, my PJs, my black dress, my high heels and somehow didn't study. Whoops. But we had fun! :)

The W Hollywood was pretty amazing...and those rooms? Comfy. ;)
And yes that's not me in this photo...it's my friend M. posing for me because she does it so much better than I do. ;) Oh, and while we were taking a quick stroll around the hotel we found this lovely palm tree. Unfortunately we forgot to go back and add some more gum...but hey, we will do this next year for sure!!!

And as much as I'd love to share a photo of me from that party I would rather not. Let's just say we had fun, the shots were yummy and the photo booth was the best idea ever. The DJ sucked, but then we went to Drai's and everything that might have gone wrong before (not that anything went wrong besides the DJ) vanished in seconds. Good thing we all had a hotel room...driving back down to Orange County would not have been the best idea. 

But here's two photos of my Christmas gifts this year.
For months I'd been looking at these Kate Spade Sunglasses. I was blessed enough to have awesome roommates who knew what I wanted. I am in love.

And my bestie spoiled me with a bunch of cute treats too. Among many my absolute favorite gifts of course were my awesome shirts from Splendid and Ella Moss - both are my very favorite!!! She knows me too well. Thanks again. Can't wait to wear them...could not bring them to Europe since it's so cold here.

And now I'm in Europe.
My flight went well. My finals went well too (if you were wondering).
Christmas came and is now gone.
I stayed home with mom. Didn't do a thing, didn't get any gifts so I dreamed of the ones I received before I left sunny California. My jet lag is almost gone but this time it's definitely a pain in the you know what. Never had such a hard time. So annoying. I'm determined to kick some ass tomorrow though and just ignore Mr. JetLag because that's no way to treat a girl like me. :) 

But I have to admit I miss this little boy too and his fluffiness. ;)

For more photo updates follow me on Instagram (@suncravingirl)

Happy December 26!
It's a holiday here too, so nothing was open and I slept all day...and watched some holiday movies. Best time ever!

xoxo

Merry Christmas from Europe

Merry Christmas to all of you out there.

Yes, it is the 24th. That's when people here celebrate and get together and yes, even open all the presents. Exactly, we don't wait until the 25th. Legend also has it that it's not Santa Claus who brings all the gifts. Shocked? Ahhhh, don't be. Different country, different culture, different view. My own opinion technically says that the 24th and the 25th are both days we can and should celebrate something and regardless of the presents (which we all know we always longed for as kids) should be cherished and valued each year in a new way. Some people take it for granted. Some don't even care. Whatever you do or don't do on these two days, remember to live life to the fullest, say thank you and please, and allow some time to reflect on the past eleven to twelve months. Remember the good as well as the bad times, and look forward to a brand new year welcoming you with open arms and lots of opportunities.

How I'm celebrating?
I thought I would see my family again and spend Christmas as usual with cousins and all but turns out...we are not so much on good terms these days. So I'm in Europe without any holiday plans, and yes I am my mom's Christmas gift and it's only going to be the two of us today. Tomorrow...well, the 25th will be celebrated with a couple (mutual friend of mom's and I) and we are going to one of my favorite expensive restaurants. Let's just say I see this as a gift. I will get spoiled by just eating there. Good, huh?

And yes, I will update.
But this holiday is not the time or place to do so...right after it...I promise.

So, whatever you do...stay merry, enjoy it, sit back and read or watch TV if you can't stand it, don't even get dressed if you don't have to, but hey, think back of what you have accomplished; even if this means you finally finished one book or a recipe you always wanted to try. Remember, even the little things are great accomplishments. 

I have missed you all.

xoxo

P.s. if feels good to be online again...and yes, if you need to wonder...I do miss California at the moment.