Crazy Little World Of Mine

Bye bye fruit!

2012-01-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

Today, I am trying to leave my phone far away from me until I have free time.

I am also trying to stay away from the internet, the silly kind of internet, the one I can't use or need right now.

I am purely focusing on research, Indian Legends, English Literature, and a few papers I have due.

Wish me luck.

Happy Friday to you all!!!

I wish I was more entertaining these days.

But hang in there...I need to post more fabulous pictures of the time when my friend visited...I am just a tad bit behind but pictures are always fun, right?!
Right!!!

I promise...those fabulous ones are coming your way soooooooooon.....

LampLust.com - Giveaway time!

2012-01-25T16:41:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!

So this is going to be a bit of a different post but I truly hope you like it, and will be as enlightened as I am with LampLust.com as I am at the moment.

You have the phenomenal chance to win one of these pretty ones!!

Yes, an amazing Light Up Cube!
I want one too!!

They'd be great for this upcoming spring/summer season, a fun addition to any party or event!

Best thing, these cubes are rechargeable. So good!

Interested?!
Yes?
Terrific.
Go, test your luck and hopefully you win one of these fun cubes!

It's easy for you to sign up and participate.
All you have to do is sign up either via your Facebook or Email and that's it.

I am NOT going to choose the winner, nor will I contact you and even know if you won.
LampLust will contact you directly if you are the winner, and will get in touch with you only.
It is that simple!

See, the big box below? Well, yes, that's where your chance to win a fun Light Up Cube comes alive.

So what are you waiting for?!!
Good luck!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Man Candy Monday - Almost Wordless

2012-01-23T06:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday everyone!!!

I thought I could share my love for hot men again...just for a change. We all agreed on hot eye candy to be a great start into Monday so I thought I'd join Leeann's fabulous drooling idea. :)

Have fun.

via google images

Bryan Greenberg!
That's all I can say.
Then again, I would gladly post a picture of a guy on here that I'm currently drooling over (ha, I feel like a 18-year-old girl again!!!), but I can't and won't. I don't even have a picture of him. Yet. Ha!

Hope your Monday is fun, not as rainy or snowy...and not as long!!!

I'm going to check out more hot Man Candy over at Leeann's...you should do the same by the way. It never disappoints.

Shoes, Book and Purple

2012-01-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last year...wow, never thought I'd say that... I won a pair of Blowfish shoes over at Mara's blog, and I was super stoked. Unfortunately, it took a while until Blowfish and I had the best timing so the shoes I wanted were actually available. We went through four (!!) pairs of shoes until I got a definite "YES, we have those shoes available in your size!" answer...trust me, it was that crazy. I always liked Blowfish, so I was more than just happy when I won the giveaway. Going through ugly finals in December and struggling with funny emails back and forth to find the right pair for me...I finally got these gray flats in at the end of December! 2011 ended really nicely, that's for sure!

Well, and as of 2012...I continue to wear these lovely ones...they are sooo incredibly comfortable, don't hurt a bit and are just simple, classy and girlie at the same time. I wear them as often as even possible, and they never fail me. So if you ever have had Blowfish shoes you may know what I'm talking about here. I am in love!!!

Then, working on getting the best deals on my school books (yes, if you haven't noticed I was brave enough to go back to school - I still wonder why!!) I also finally bought Kori's first novel. It was about time. I just needed something new, something different, and something else than those Indian Legands' books and all. :) I haven't had a chance to read it (yeah, I know!) but I sure will. Promised!

And since this week's rather colder and rainier or whatnot...I was mostly wearing my purple jacket, and one day discovered I had purple nail polish, a purple shirt, and my purple jacket on...I just had to take a picture. It was too awkward...haha! So glad I don't own purple flats or pants!

How has your week been?

Any fun plans for this weekend?

I'll be trying to study, go to the movies, and just chill...I love my PJ-days! ;)

Two Things

2012-01-19T17:30:00.000-08:00

There are a few things I'm really looking forward to.

But for right now and the next three or so weeks...it's two things:

I read the book and LOVED it.

I chose to read the book a few years back because I needed something new to read.

I walked into the bookstore, and I pretty much grabbed the first book that sounded interesting and different than what I had read before...and...I started reading it and was intrigued, amazed, sad, happy, curious, and touched!

Cannot wait to see the movie.

Or the following one, obviously!

So excited!!!

Busy

2012-01-18T18:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday everyone!
It's Wednesday, right?

I totally lost track of time.

Really. I lost track of time.

I also blame it on the little extra day off most of us enjoyed on Monday.

Either way, this week has been certainly better than last.

For once it's shorter, and less dramatic.
Thank you by the way for your kind words.

To clarify things a little about what happened last week:

nothing bad happened to me directly but I was in the middle of it,
and felt helpless and stupid not interfering.

Then again, if I had gone in between what was going on I would have made matters worse.

All is good now.

I hope.
Really.
I hope.

For those of you living in Los Angeles you might have known that I have a street, ummm avenue, named after me. Okay, not true. It's not named after me but it might as well be.
Years ago I took a picture of the sign only and always failed to go back.
On December 31 my friend A. made me stand under the street sign, just to prove that it's real.

At least my last day of 2011 went according to plan, sorta! ;)

And I felt I needed to show you this!

I am also hoping to get more pictures ready, so I can share them with you!
Stay tuned!!

xoxo

P.s. Hello new readers aka followers!!

Crazy Weekend!

2012-01-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

*be forewarned...it's one of those posts again that just needed to be shared. The written kind!

So my lovelies...
I had an interesting weekend.
Literally.

The quote above applies to all of us, you, me, your neighbor, husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend, mom, dad, sister, friend, brother, cousin, classmate, and even the horrible teacher you dread seeing. It works for all of us. Reading it over and over again it makes me sad, and question where we are all from. I mean, who do you think I am?! Where I come from? Not the country, or the city, or religion. Put all that aside and focus on me, as a person. A girl. Or heck, a woman who looks like a girl. Think about it. Do you really know me? Do we really know you?

Unless we are related or have been friends for a while...we probably have assumptions but don't necessarily know anything about the other person. I am not saying we should now all open up, but we should think first before we act, say, and just handle things. I'm sure most of us do that already.

This weekend has proven to me that love has all kinds of different forms. And apparently this weekend it was the nasty kind. It not only shocked me, but worried me mostly. How can love turn its back and become so evil, gross, unfair, and rough? Don't get me wrong now. No physical abuse or anything in that matter happened. BUT, even words can be hurtful (sometimes more than anything else) and I felt useless, sad, alone, and just very much filled with question marks.

I enjoyed my freedom, and my PJ days/hours, and waking up with a dog facing me...I even enjoyed little things like a dog trying to lick me and really getting into this "I need to lick Selma's face now" - phase...but he failed. :) It made me smile though. I'm telling you little things are the best!!!

But at the same time, I had nightmares, and wondered why people go through what they go through. Yes. And the quote above says...we all have stories to tell (or not), and those stories have shaped us and are shaping us throughout our lives...but is it really worth reliving stories again? Not to me.

Then, Amazon (ThankYouVeryMuch) finally sent me the book I needed for my dreaded speech class. If I haven't mentioned it, I LOVE my speech class (more on that later on another post!). So the first two chapters that are due tomorrow night (and yes, I read them already!) are about communication, life, and listening skills. I read those chapters so quickly because I just couldn't stop. I thought that book was talking to me, explaining why certain things happen and why Saturday night was one awful night for all of us to witness. I wanted to read it out loud and let everyone hear it because truly, I felt the book talked to me. No epiphany though occurred so I still don't know what I'm going to do with my life (hello crazy little world of mine get your s*hit together!!), but still...the book has opened eyes, ears and heart for me!

I love books like this one!

And today, for pretty much the first time in my entire time here in California I have to admit that I am missing Europe! Maybe the little incident on Saturday triggered this feeling, maybe not. Maybe it's reading/following so many of you out there that live in Europe, or are about to move there. Either way I miss Europe today! A lot!!

Or, it's the gloomy day we are experiencing!

But good news is...in approximately four months I'm flying back to Europe!!
Can I get a YAY or a high five, or anything else that might make me even more excited about this than I already am?! Yes?! Please!!!

Ciao!!!

Have a great weekend

2012-01-14T17:06:00.000-08:00

we ♥ it

This weekend

I am working on breathing better

Sleeping better

Speaking better

Listening better

and most importantly

living better!

It's been an interesting past week.

I am trying not to look back, but rather to look forward.

I have so much to organize.
Not sure where I to start.

So, this weekend...

...is all about me.

Selfish maybe.

But we all know that we need "me" time!

It not only allows us to be true to ourselves

but to enjoy life more.
Little details do count.

Every day.

Every second.

Hope you are enjoying your weekend.

Whatever you are doing.

Know it counts for something!

xoxo

Sightseeing #1

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

Funny, when you live in a city or even a region you hardly know that place. Tourists, the so-called non-locals, know your place sometimes better than you do. So, when my friend A. visited me for a whole week over New Year's I knew we'd be going places and exploring areas I normally wouldn't visit, or have visited in the past and that's it.

We went all over. Pretty much crossed out all on her to-see list and had a blast!
However, there are still a few things we didn't get to see or do or enjoy (obviously, in L.A. that's very probable)...so I started a "next time" list for her when she returns. We even made southern California look so darn good for her that she started looking into apartments and moving cross country. I certainly wouldn't mind. I know why I moved!!! :)

Some art had to be put into her sightseeing schedule too.

You may have recognized the lady on the right...it's Sierra!
We drove down Mulholland Drive, and loved it!

The following picture is the only one I got...and I learned my lesson...never give it to someone that doesn't know how to handle your camera...or a camera. We look tiny on that railroad.

And at some point, we decided to drive up to Alta Laguna Park (aka Top of the World Park) and sit down and enjoy one of the most marvelous views ever! I especially love the foggy pink sky in this one!

One of my friend's happens to be a ghost...hmmmm, should I be scared?!

More pictures to come...I'm still sorting out some!

We took a ton.

Obviously I don't want to bore you with so much beauty...haha!

Hope your day is marvelous!

A little obsessed

2012-01-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

"You are beautiful, like a dream come alive, incredible.
A centerfold miracle, lyrical..."

These words haunt me. I love them don't get me wrong.
And when the windows are down and the sun's about to set and I hear them it's even more magical.

I just feel I should be long done with the teenage pop music culture and yet, here I am writing about it. Quickly and simply.

I blame it on my friend and the CD she made for me putting "Love you like a love song" on and I hear Selena Gomez sing it on a daily basis. Heck, no, hourly basis if not more often. One of my friend's was joking saying she wants a CD with only that song on it so she doesn't have to push the back button or have it in repeat.

Hmmm...how old are we again? 17? I don't think so. However, I have to admit it feels good to act as if we just have half a year left of high school. Ha!

And as I always, well, sometimes, say...

What can I say

2012-01-09T07:30:00.000-08:00

Wish me luck!
Day 1 of hard studying has just begun again!

Grrrrr....

But I will survive.

xoxo

Firenze

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

If you don't already, you'll learn that I love food and that I love going out to explore new restaurants, and just have a fantastic time. I grew up in this business so going out and tasting new (sometimes exotic) dishes in general or just finding a great new place to explore is my favorite fun time ever. So while I was having a blast showing my friend A. the Los Angeles area it just so also happened that she knew a few people in the area too. Out of nowhere a friend of hers called her up and said "hey, I saw on Facebook (oh may!) that you are in Los Angeles! Come to the restaurant I work at!!"

She didn't have to ask me twice.

So we went.
And got VIP treatment.

And I have to say, I really loved it.

Not only was it slow that night - thanks to the holidays (I hate when it's loud and crowded anyways) but it also felt like such a laid-back Italian restaurant in the midst of Northern Hollywood. So not complaining. Funny thing though is that the owner apparently also owns another restaurant and it just so happens to be my favorite in Ventura county. Coincidence? I don't think so. Fate. Hahaha!

all pictures via google

For more information click here. And have fun!

I know I'll return. Can never have enough Italian food!

Hope you're having a fabulous weekend!!

xoxo

January

2012-01-05T21:42:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all!!!

How has this new year been for you so far?
I hope you started it beautifully and are enjoying life and love and everything else.

My old year (the day of the 31st!) ended with a fabulous get together with my bestie Sierra and my other bestie from Philadelphia. We had tons of fun exploring areas we either had heard of or had known existed but never had a chance to even visit or go/drive through. It's always the same. Tourists know more about our the city we live in than we do. Sadly. But I think we covered everything on my friend's list that she desperately wanted to see or drive through...and if not...we shall cover all that next time she's in town!!

I have also taken pictures while my friend A. visited sunny southern California and I'll share them soon. So stay tuned. I promise I'll share them.

However, right now all I want is rest and find my little path on this blog world again. I have been a bit missing in action which can be indeed a relief for a while...but to be honest, and we all agree on that I know that much, I missed blogging. I missed reading your entries and following your fun adventures, or not (!), or just reading about new decoration, life events and what not. My daily inspiration reading was neglected and now I am hoping to catch up on everything!

Then again, school is back in session next week (yuck!) and I hope I find some downtime to entertain you all.

Now here's a little question for you my lovely readers (old or new)...is there anything in particular you would want to hear more about, read more about, or so? Let me know. There are moments in my life I feel I have nothing to share or talk about (although again I have to say there's really no such thing as a writer's block!), but if there's something you'd think would be awesome for me to share or write about let me know. I'm open for suggestions.

With that being said...let me pop in two more aspirins and sleep.
If you are following me on twitter, you know I've been having a huge headache today and it seems to go nowhere. I even left the living room and headed to my room so I can quietly stay sane and not cry all the time because this stupid head is having issues today. I'm telling you, loud noises and even people talking is not the best thing right now.

xoxo

NYE and Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T19:06:00.000-08:00

Hey guys I'm sorry I've been so missing in action lately.
I have good reason...I am literally on vacation...and my awesome friend from Philly showed up to surprise me, but if you read my latest blog entry you know I knew that already. We are having a blast and I do admit I feel like a little tourist guide showing her what Los Angeles has to offer...and Orange County of course! She's having fun and is unfortunately telling the whole wide world where we are and what we are doing...at least people know we are still alive. :)

More on her being over here later on...

...right now I'm wishing you all a very safe and fun New Year's Eve and a wonderful start into 2012. May the New Year be bright, shiny, awesome, full of love, laughter, fun and peace for all of you. Let's rock it!!

See you all NEXT YEAR!! :)

xoxo

Back to reality!

2011-12-27T12:35:00.000-08:00

St. Louis was awesome.
Cold, and so not what I was used to and still...it was everything I needed for my time being in the Midwest. I had a blast seeing family again, and spending some time with them and seeing where they actually live. Believe it or not, I had never been there. They always visited me, so now I thought it was about time to visit them. I think I did the right thing!

I had so much fun in St. Louis. We even went up on the Arch and enjoyed a rather clear view of the city! Unfortunately, as you can see...there was NO SNOW. I was bummed. Then again, maybe it was better this way! ;)

More pictures to come...

I have to admit I am happy to be back in California again. Just being back to my regular schedule, regular wardrobe and all makes me happy. Ridiculous I know...but it's what it is. Besides, I would not be able to share the following awesome news if I wasn't back to my regular base!

My BFF (never thought I'd use this expression ever) in the whole wide world is expecting a baby!!! I am beyond stoked. Beyond!!!! Now I'm certainly hitting the baby fever...seriously! Either way, the baby's due this early summer and I am just stoked. I may even go as far as throwing her a baby shower. I know she wants one, but parties like that aren't common in Switzerland so I don't know. Oh well. At least I get to buy more baby clothes now! YAY!!

And there's more news...but I can't spoil it yet because I never know who actually reads my blog! I will once the time is right...just remember my words for now...I know something that certain people think I don't know. They are trying really hard to confuse me but it ain't working baby!!! I know how to investigate...and well, I'm usually two to three steps ahead these days. I just pretend I am not! I just pretend I don't know anything at all. I really don't.

Hope you had a fantastic Christmas (if you celebrate it)...and hope you are enjoying the last few days of this year!! Can you believe that next week is actually already next year?!
I still can't!

Have a brilliant day.
Stay happy, keep smiling...and just pretend you didn't read the part about the secret thing I don't know about. I really just made it up. Maybe. Hmmm, yes yes, I just made it up. ;-)

xoxo

P.s. I really did not make it up! I know!!!

Merry Christmas everyone...or happy Holidays of course!

2011-12-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

Nowadays you just don't know what to say anymore...to me it's Merry Christmas!! Sounds just better!

Hope you are having a fabulous weekend.

I happily returned from the mid-west...more about my little trip later on. Right now, family and friends time is all that counts.

xox

Celebrate Your Holidays with Purple Glitz & Sparkles

2011-12-20T16:42:00.000-08:00

Why hello Selma's blog readers!

I hope you are having an amazing week leading up

to Christmas (wow, did I just say that?!)

I honestly don't know where the time has gone, seriously.

While Selma is on her lovely trip having fun, it is I,

Sierra from Ocean Dreams blog sent here to

entertain you! I thought I would bring some

festive fun to my bestie's blog and since I know how

much she loves the color purple, I thought I would

find some amazing photos on Pinterest to glitz

up her blog world today.

Hopefully all of this purple glitz will brighten your

Christmas world as well! :)

{via Pinterest}

Sit back and relax in your sparkly dress...Christmas is on its way!

{via Pinterest}

Whenever I see Selma I always manage to give her something

purple. I can totally see her having pretty purple nails with sparkles

like these. Aren't they gorgeous?!

{via Pinterest}

Don't forget about your sparkly purple heels!

The bows on these pumps are positively

precious and of course purple, lol!

{via Pinterest}

Okay I just love her purple eye shadow.

Yes, please!

{via Pinterest}

This is just pure magic. Can I be her please?!

Also, let's not forget about a purple Christmas.
There's something oh so magical about purple on a Christmas
tree and pretty purple ornaments.
Don't get me started about the dining room -
so pretty!

So I found the last two photos on My Purple Hoodie on Tumblr.

Selma my dear, you must check this Tumblr page out!

Purple everything!! :)

Have a beautiful Christmas lovely readers and

thanks for reading this very purple-icious post! :)

Selma will be back before you know it
and until then let her know that you miss her!
I know I do!

xoxo, Sierra

Time for the Holidays

2011-12-15T06:30:00.000-08:00

My lovelies,

While you are reading this I am happily enjoying my time in St. Louis. Wish me luck while I am strolling through this marvelous city. And yes, it is colder than in southern California but I will certainly not complain. Absolutely not. Thank you. I grew up with cold winters. Even though I was never a huge fan of snowy grounds and watery shoes (yes, even in solid, hard winter boots this can happen!)...I still love the holiday season and its snowy moments. There is absolutely nothing more beautiful and pure than standing outside, looking up into the sky and feeling the snowflakes slowly falling and landing on you. As cold and icy as it may be I feel most alive when this happens. My favorite and best moments!!

I hope I catch one or two snowflakes soon!

xox

P.s. I have some fun news to tell but this has to wait!!! And don't worry, I am not moving away again.

What I have been up to!

2011-12-13T21:30:00.000-08:00

So my lovelies...it has been a while and I know I am a bit slacking off here with posts. However, life happens, and life should happen outside this world and I am absolutely fine with not posting every single day. You should be, too. Just saying.

Well, December has been a crazy month so far. Finals, Christmas preparations, birthdays, trips...it's been interesting to say the least. And sometimes, I just have to say "no, I can't!!!". I even turned down a fun opportunity to meet fellow bloggers last week for a fun fashion/tv event (see posts by them here, here, and here). I simple couldn't go due to some heavy exam I could not postpone. I was bummed, but hey, it was okay. Sometimes you just got to say "no", even though deep down you want to say "heck yeah!". And sometimes, you just got to have good timing and a bit luck on your side as well. Yes, I was bummed I couldn't go that day, but when I got home that night (all drained from weird numbers and stuff) I received an email telling me I won a giveaway! YAY. Finally is all I can say. :) I'm telling you, as crazy as December has been so far it's been good too.

Here are some pictures that prove I am still alive.

What a fun night we had...touching the stage...literally!

In the midst of all the stress, at some point I managed to go to Laguna Beach and enjoy the sunset. I still don't remember why I went but really, is there a reason NOT to go to a beach and look at how the sun sets? It was a romantic night. Very much so. I was just stuck alone. Oh well.

And yeah, sorry no pic of me. I had a very ugly hair ~~day~~ week, heck even month. The only person that saw my new hairdo at some point was Erin. I think she liked it, huh?! It wasn't as horrible then. Haha! It's gotten worse. It just needs to grow back fast...like really really fast!!!

Who knows, next time I share some short hair pic of me...maybe! ;)

Stay tuned.

Happy almost mid of December everyone!
Unbelievable.

Man Candy Monday!

2011-12-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

I'm busy...yes yes. Nonetheless I could not resist today and share some Man Candy Monday love...it's been a while that I joined the fun over at Join the Gossip. Here I am again. And yes, I can see your eyes and mind go "what the heck?!". I have to admit, he is my favorite of all. Yes, there I said it. At least I'm being honest. Right?

I liked him with longer hair, too.

Matthew Gray Gubler.

Just join the fun and hop on over to Leeann's blog and look at some more Man Candy for today, or heck this week!!!

Don't Think...

2011-12-08T15:56:00.001-08:00

I think this pretty much describes my week.

I've been busy, and if you saw me you'd be thinking I wasn't...but I have been. I wish it was "good" busy though...yes, I believe there's a difference between good and bad busy. Ha!

And today, craziness came all together and kept me in bed. For a long time.

Thank Goodness for some bubbly dark drink that helped a little, and aspirin, and water...and the dogs taking care of me.

I'm still not better but I am forcing myself out of bed, out of the house, and into some cooler but fresher air. Finals can wait a little (wish me luck next week!), and the Christmas presents too (as long time followers you know I usually sent stuff away by the end of November, and this year?! Not so much. The boxes aren't even sealed yet!).

I'll take it easy this year. But I will be studying for finals and will work on everything starting tomorrow...just not the boxes. They'll become New Year's gifts I assume. Ha! Oh well, we shall see.

Yes, I think too much!!!

At least I know what I'm getting this year for Christmas!!!

Do you?

Happy Thursday everyone.

Stay warm.

Stay happy...whatever you're doing...enjoy it!!!

xox

P.s. welcome new followers! Thanks for stopping by and reading!

It looks like Christmas

2011-12-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone.

The time has come...and yes Christmas is coming closer and closer each day. In one week I'll be pretty much done with most of my classes, most of my finals and this year's awesome holiday season can finally start. Finally!! I am certainly excited! So I thought I'd give myself a little break and join Michelle's weekly fun again. This week obviously with some Christmas fun...oh, excuse me, pins!

Are you excited?

I may even get to see and feel some snow flakes this season! I'm already excited. It'll make me feel at home!

Are you on Pinterest, too? Follow me if you like.

Why not join in the fun and share your latest pins? I just did! :D

Or just hop on over to Michelle's.

Happy Wednesday!

Homesick

2011-12-06T09:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am homesick. Just a little bit but enough for me to go onto sties and find out how even more gorgeous my city back in Europe is. Crazy, huh? Where was all this beauty when I was there? Really? Not fair. However, just thinking about the cold winter temperatures...I am happy I am in California. Thank you.

above photos via Luzerner Zeitung Online

Besides this quite gorgeous ice skating rank...today, is also Santa Claus day! Yes, it is. And somehow I think it's a lot better to have this day on December 6 than having him come in for Christmas. Don't hate me now but it's just my opinion. Every year I chuckle a little just because to me, Santa Claus will be part of December 6...and so not coming through a chimney. ;) Ha! Then again, who wants such a Santa and his helpers to come in on Christmas?! I certainly don't!

Isn't Santa's helper scary?! I'm certainly no fan of his...but these helpers encouraged us to behave more, and work more on our good behavior throughout the year...otherwise Santa would know and December 6 would not be a fantastic day!

Santa photos via Luzerner Zeitung Online

Yes I was scared of December 6. Santa and his helpers would come to school and visit classes, walk through the city, and his helpers just looked incredibly scary...especially when you are about 8 or 10 or 15 or even 25! Ha!! Worst was, when the helpers were friends of mine and waited until they'd spot me on the street...fantastic. Little Selma definitely got scared (regardless of age!). But for the record, I was never scared of Santa although he certainly had some power over me...just his helpers always caused some heavy chills.

This is the only thing I am not missing. I love the holiday season and I am quite sad I don't experience it with familiar places and with my mom whom I miss daily...but today is a day I am happy I am not walking through Luzern. Thank you!

Happy Santa Claus Day!!!

"Do you lye crytol gel?"

2011-12-03T15:32:00.001-08:00

Ok, folks, let me tell you one thing...

Today is one of those day that I cherish, appreciate, and love my life as of this moment and my life in southern California. There are times I don't (let's be honest, we all do!!), there are times that I feel incredibly homesick, and there are times I just want to hug everyone around me.

Today is one of these days. I had fun. I went out and about and maybe drank a few drinks too many (whoops!!), and just had a blast!! I finally (and by finally I really mean finally!!) saw Anjelah Johnson. If you are not familiar with her, that's okay, but just know you are missing out big time!!! Luckily fate was on my site and I purchased two tickets at the right (or helped someone in need out), and voila...I had a blast. Granted, I froze my butt off while waiting outside (darn this awful California weather these days!), but at the same time was happily sipping on my Chai Latte. Yay!!! Best time to enjoy some warm beverage anyways...

...and now, scary Sunday is around the corner. Sadly. I have to study like hell to get at least a B on my freakin' math exam tomorrow. No way will I ever get an A in this class.

What is wrong with me? Why am I pushing myself through school again? Will it really help me feel more accomplished, more satisfied, and even smarter? Who knows. Seriously.

At least I am here, and I am living life...that is all that counts. Sometimes you just gotta do all this....and sometimes, as worthless as it may look to you and even sound to you it is all worth the wait, the trouble, the struggle, the agony...it is worth it!!!

I feel blessed, do you?!

Happy weekend everyone.
So sorry I've been MIA lately...I feel I'm missing out on a lot...but hey, I have less than two weeks. One paper due, and all my finals scheduled for the 14th. Can it be any more awful? Oh, and my friend's birthday is coming up too. I know what we are gonna do that weekend, and I don't have to look for a birthday gift anymore. Our fun night out tonight was worth every penny! Thank you. But I'll be in big trouble figuring out what to do and how to juggle school and fun and life and well, me. Haha!

Wish me luck!

xoxo

Happy December

2011-12-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

Already? Yes, it is December!!!

I can't believe it either folks. But it's what it is and yes, we really have one month left of this year.

So go out and celebrate life and December!

And I just saw the following video on TV and thought I should share it with you all. I need some fun in my life...and I know we all do, every day. The smallest things should brighten our days...not just the big ones. :) It's kind of weird but fun at the same time. Besides, I know I need some Christmas spirit. There's no decoration in the house yet! Yes, believe it or not, but so far we've been slacking off a little. If you know me you know I LOVE Christmas. The decoration, music, food, clothing, feeling...I love it all! So it feels weird not having any Christmas twinkly and glittery fun in the house (yet!!). I am determined to change this soon. Wish me luck!

In the meantime, have fun with the video.

And if you live in southern California....try not to get blown away in the next days. Should I hold on to the palm trees in front of my house? They are moving like crazy but look stable. ;)

More info about this video is found here.

Have a brilliant day!

Life

2011-11-29T12:07:00.001-08:00

Life happens these days.
I don't know where I should go or what I should do in order to keep smiling, breathing, and heck, surviving. Thanksgiving break was fun, saw a couple of movies (J. Edgar and The Help - yes I know, I am so behind watching this movie...but hey, at least I saw it!), slept in (so needed) and appreciated the blog/twitter/facebook world a lot. Why? Well, you got to sign in at the right time, read the right posts and then decide in seconds. I scored some awesome sold-out tickets for December 3 to the Improv. We wanted to go but couldn't decide whether work and school allowed us some time off, and then it was too late to get them. You should have seen my face when I saw someone trying to sell her tickets (yes, Kori I'm talking about you!). I went gaga. Ok, maybe not, but I was seriously not even thinking twice about it...I said yes, asked my friend, checked work schedules and yes, got them the same night. Sometimes you just got to answer and act quickly...otherwise, the luck is gone! I think I was lucky that night! Thank you!!!

So, am I excited? You can bet on it!!! (Happy early Birthday M.!!) :)

I am also working on preparing Christmas gifts these days...I have pretty much everything ready and will send them soon. If not, Christmas gifts turn into New Year's gifts which is nice, too. Everyone gets something for Christmas...so why not for New Years?! Ha!!!!

So yeah, do I sound busy?
I hope so, because I truly am.
Did I ever mention finals are coming up, too? No? Well, yes, they are and I am already freaking out.
However, after finals I'm going to St. Louis so yay!!! I'll be having a blast there.
Oh, right...I'm also packing for my trip...seriously...these next two or three weeks are going to be insane!

Have a fabulous day everyone.
Stay warm...enjoy life, and don't take it for granted (I have my reasons why I'm saying this today!!).

xoxo

I am "blank" because...

2011-11-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

Well I should I titled it I am copying things. There I said it. No, don't worry...I'm not stealing things, I am just borrowing the idea. Maybe it's the same thing. Either way I saw the following on different blogs (like here and here) and just felt like sharing this great idea. I feel I'm lacking ideas and feel my blog needs some lift-me-up moments (which of course, this post today doesn't really qualify as a lift-me-up post. You better be the judge of that one though!), and so I think a "I am "blank" because..." post is needed!

So here it is...have fun!!

click on image for source

I am weird because...

I don't like chocolate or peanut butter
I talk to myself when I feel lonely (I know it's horrible!!), stressed, or irritated
at my age I don't have my shit together (excuse my language!)
music can easily dictate my mood these days
I watch teenage drama shows on TV even though I am no longer a teenager

I am a bad friend because...

I leave my friends behind and move on with my life (in another country!)
I sometimes do not respond to text messages right away because I have nothing to say
I am jealous of what my friends have and I don't

I am a good friend because...

even though I'm far away I always think of them and want to share every detail with them
I sent my condolences across the ocean when I learned my friend's dad passed away on Monday
my friends know I'm bringing home any kind of ~~souvenir~~ gift wherever I go (clothes included)
I remember birthdays easily and would never ever forget them
I support them with anything I can contribute if they are in need

I am sad because...

I can't spend Christmas, New Years, or even Carnival season with my family and friends
"aunty" Selma misses out on her little nieces and nephews growing up
next year would have been the year I would have taken my cousin to Vegas with me (as promised)
but this is never going to happen - so instead I'm planning on going and drinking on her behalf
sometimes I have nothing really to say or do and it makes me feel awkward about life

I am happy because...

I live in California again
I have friends I can rely on and never have to feel left out
of new friends I met over the past year
I can walk around without a heavy winter jacket and scarf all around my neck during winter
the dogs accept me and want to cuddle every day
this semester is almost over

I am excited for...

little things happening on a daily basis

my trip to St. Louis and countryside Illinois
Christmas
my friend visiting me soon
the future and what it has in store for all of us!

Hope you had an amazing week, and a fantastic Thanksgiving if you reside in the U.S.
And if you went out for Black Friday hope you didn't get pepper sprayed!

Time for...

2011-11-22T18:22:00.001-08:00

Pumpkin pie, of course!!!
And maybe a glass of wine.
I know, weird combo but I so feel like it.

Life's happening these days...
...and of course, I'm trying to work on my eating habits so I'm ready for Thursday!

Hope your week is great!!!

xoxo

Wordless

2011-11-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

I really have nothing to say today! Really!

Have a fantastic weekend!!!

Winter Fashion

2011-11-18T00:31:00.000-08:00

Lovelies...

...as some of you know, and I've mentioned it quickly before, I am going away right before Christmas. I'm slightly excited. Cold winter will welcome me once I land there and it will be perfect for me to enjoy "real" winter. We all know southern California doesn't really have winter. I like it that way. However, pre-Christmas and Christmas in general should consist of warm, cozy clothes, hot drinks that don't make you sweat, and colder temperatures with possible snow. I am definitely looking forward to all these parts. Now you may wonder "why on earth is she even considering going to an area that might be covered in 20 inches of snow? She lives in California where it's sunny and warm, pretty much all year round." Yes, you're right. However, I have to. It's family. And I should not ignore that part of my life, should I? And heck, I didn't even have to pay for the ticket so that's all good with me.
*early Merry Christmas to me?!*

So, by looking forward to some fun winter getaway, I thought it was perfect timing to share my love for winter clothing...and linking up with Kori's fun Fashion Friday series!!!

And when it comes to winter...I just shiver by just thinking about it...so I was googling and pinteresting...and that's what I came up with this week. Enjoy!

I just feel like I need a pair or two, or three, or four...

Have a fantastic day and stay warm!

Plenty to be THANKful for - hometown

2011-11-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

Today I'm linking up with Meghan (and several more awesome bloggers) and the two-week "Plenty to be THANKful for" challenge.

Today's topic is I'm THANKful for My Hometown...

...and since I am away from my hometown, or from one of my hometowns (yes I have more than just one) and since I actually miss it dearly these days...this topic and idea comes at such a great time. Thanks! ;)

I am incredibly thankful for my hometown! I am proud of it, and I am proud to call it home...and I love the fact that its sister city is a city I must visit soon. Hello Chicago, I'm talking to you!!!!
Just wanted to share some pictures with you!

My hometown is Luzern, Switzerland.

It's my favorite place on earth (yes, there I said it) and even though I will always have some sort of a love/hate relationship with it you can bet anything you want I will never ever live in another Swiss city other than beautiful (and sometimes tiny) Luzern. I know a few fellow bloggers have been there already and if you for some reason haven't (totally understandable) you got to go. Not just for me, but for you. And if you don't mind the cold...it's equally beautiful during a hopefully snowy holiday season! This is mainly what I miss most these days!! Trust me, I do.

And my favorite of all...especially walking home at night underneath this made my heart smile!!!

click on images for sources

Are you THANKful for your hometown?!
I hope so!!!

So what you waiting for? Go on over and link up...I just did!

xoxo

P.s.: I also love my other two hometowns....just saying! ;)

Everything ages

2011-11-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Maybe you've seen my post on Sunday, and seen the last picture I posted via my Pinterest. ;) I just felt like sharing all pictures I found because really, everything ages at some point...even our most known, most "loved" social networks available to and used by us. Way too funny, and so true!

Have a fantastic day!!!!

Friendship and such

2011-11-13T10:03:00.001-08:00

I had a slight meltdown last night...okay, maybe not. But I stayed home all day, cleaned up, worked on school stuff, and ended up watching TV with a gigantic glass of wine in my hand (please don't judge). I ended up drinking a bit more than just one glass...oops. However, it was well deserved (obviously) and I was alone with two dogs, so that somehow justifies it. I even offered one dog some wine but he declined by turning his back on me. Just like that. I felt alone. However, when it was time for me to get some zzzz's, he apologized and slept next to me just so I'm fully protected if anything would ever happen. How sweet.

Though the weekend's been good to me. I made myself "homesick" by catching up on all Swiss related news, and music. I listened to my local radio station back in Switzerland and heck, they are still playing the same music. Not even one song was new. I listened at night, so this made it around ten in the morning over there, but still...no new songs? Really. We all know radio stations play the same songs over and over again until we just can't stand the songs anymore, but this is worse. In the past three months nothing changed? Not even one bit? Wonder if I should email them and let them know. I am appalled.

On another note...over the past three months, heck even almost four months I have learned a lot about friendship. A lot.

I have learned that some friends are brilliant, and others just occasionally play a role in my life. I am sad that the friends I thought I could count on are not really friends these days. Right now typing I'm having a fun conversation with one of my oldest friends. She's going to Australia in a few days and I already miss her and our fun text messages. She'll have fun though being in Down Under again, seeing family and exploring new areas of that gigantic continent. I'm already looking forward to fun pictures and updates.

But going back to my friendship topic...I am just saddened that some people take friendships (and I'm not only talking about myself here) for granted. Yes, I can easily apply it to myself and my friends and in some way I am doing so. I may live abroad right now, and I may have a few friends here but this should not mean that I am not available for my old friends. Nowadays with all kinds of social sites, modern technologies, etc it is so much easier to stay in touch - if it is what is wanted. I have a feeling, some just do not get it at all. At all.

I am thankful however for the friends I stay in contact with via fun Skype conversations, so at least I know how they are and what they look like and how big their children/babies already are. For kids it is always fun to Skype. They do not understand (yet) how this is even possible...seeing me on a big screen and not really seeing me in reality but somehow it is reality. They ask the funniest questions and it totally makes my day!! I love it!

How are you keeping in touch with friends that live abroad, not just around the corner, or in a different time zone?

11-11-11 at 11.11

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

Today is a day where we honor all those who have fought for freedom and to protect the lives of everyone around. Today also marks the official day of Carnival season. It has this bitter taste to it though...for me that is. I am not in Europe celebrating this special day, nor will I be around in February when everything goes crazy during our awesome fifth season. And, our fun season will always mark a very confusing and dark time in my family's life as well. It'll be our season, and our thing, but it will always also remind us that we lost someone dear to us.

And, today...I wonder how many babies are welcomes into our world. To me 11-11-11 is a magical number...very special, and very positive. It's my friends' lucky number and let's hope it's a lucky number for all of us. We all need luck in our lives, don't we? And even to you out there, maybe sitting on your bed or sofa, reading this very line and being all cynical...you also need a lucky day, and luck in life...even if you don't believe in this and don't think it matters. It always does. Sometimes, life will teach you this very lesson and luck will be on your side and you will remind yourself that yes, you had read this somewhere that luck needs to be in every person's life...and then you'll find yourself smiling, and thinking back at your cynical, dark days where nothing seemed right and everything was taken for granted.

click on pictures for sources

Have a fantastic day my readers!
And don't forget to smile!

Guess where I'm going?

2011-11-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, I am going away again. I am slightly excited!

It is some time in December and even though it is little over one month away I am really getting nervous. I will leave sunny, and quite warm California for a while. Ha, I will probably be walking through snow and mostly freezing my butt off. Nothing against that, especially since I'll be spending it with family!! Yay!

Now, you want to know where I'm headed?

Don't worry I'll tell ya.

Well, I only fly into St. Louis, and I may even spend a day or so at some point in the city but I'll be spending the rest of my lil' vacay time in Illinois. Finally. Unfortunately, Chicago has to wait a little. I am sad. Don't hate me now. But I know I'll be back and definitely enjoying some Chicago time at some point. A must anyways. It's the sister city to my hometown, so at some point I have to visit it. Though, I digress...St. Louis and Illinois-farmland will be my getaway places in December!!! Wohoo! Yes, I'm that excited. I clearly need a time-out, and a break. Already? Yes, lovelies...already.

Now all I need is to find the perfect shoes/boots, and winter sweaters...and yes, y'all gave me great ideas on where to look for what items and all. Thank you!

So I'm going out in a few hours hunting down awesome deals so I can finally stay warm and cozy!!! And I may even finish my Christmas shopping this week, once and for all. I want to be 100% ready for the upcoming holiday season! My plan is to be ready by Thanksgiving...having everything wrapped up, placed into boxes and ready to be sent away! Yes, that early and yes, I know I'm crazy. Thankyouverymuch.

Have you started your holiday shopping yet?!

Man Candy Monday...

2011-11-07T09:20:00.000-08:00

...guys, I couldn't resist. I've been stuck at home all weekend long doing nothing special but study for a stupid test that I'm having today, and spending some me-time. It's my favorite time. I have to admit it. I get easily bored and yes I was bored, but it was so good to enjoy some me-time. Who doesn't?

And what did I do? Watch TV, movies, and had some wine time on my own. ;) Yay!!!

And so I got a little inspired for today's Man Candy Monday post...seriously, this idea is awesome.

Thanks Leeann.

Robert Downey Jr.

Sigh.

I know I know...he's gone through all kinds of crap in his life. His fault, others' fault...life happened one way or another. Though, I have to admit, I have liked him for years...even when he was all down at the very bottom of the bottle holding onto probably nothing but a glimpse of ridiculous hope. I still liked him. I'm trying to remember how I started my little obsession with him...it was in the early 90s...I think it was AirAmerica...and then Chaplin?! Who knows. But it's been a very long time. And yes, if you go back and see when these movies came out and that I actually went inside a theater to watch them...do the math, I'm not 20, or 25! Oh my.

Either way, I need some hot Man Candy today...so I'm going over to Leeann's to check some more hotness out. :)

Happy Monday!!!

Winter $$$

2011-11-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

I spent money yesterday. A lot. And today, I just took my credit card and stored it away so I won't be using it anymore. At least until Thanksgiving. Yes, you read right. I don't want to use it anymore. I have cash and once that cash is gone I just wait until it is December. Maybe. Who knows. We really shall see if I can do this. I am just so very sad I spent so much yesterday...but I did good. Most of what I bought are Christmas gifts, so that's okay. Add two winter jackets and gloves for me, and you get the picture. I had to. I am planning a trip to Illinois this December and it won't be sunny and 75 degrees. Nope. It'll be a bit chilly for my taste and I have no other choice but to wear some proper winter gear.
Any suggestions in general?

I totally lost my winter touch...and since I didn't bring any real winter clothes over I have to buy some. Most importantly are the shoes/boots or so...I am lost and have no idea on where to look and where to find good, solid, affordable footwear. HELP!!!

But in the meantime...I am drooling over some of the following items.

One of my coats pretty much looks like the one below...just in a different color.

click on images for source

I can dream about all these, right?
But in all seriousness...I need a good pair of boots, and another good pair of shoes.
Help, help, help...I don't have any. Not that I walk barefoot but almost.

Your suggestions are really appreciated.
And as formal as this may sound, I really truly mean it.

And since today is Friday, I decided to participate in Kori's weekly series...

Join the fun, and get inspired!!!

November, you are very pinteresting...

2011-11-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello lovelies...it is Wednesday today. And I would have never thought I'd be ready for a weekly post with Michelle over at the Vintage Apple, but here I am.

Halloween's over, November 1 is over...it is time to look forward to some fun November time. I hope I can go out more often and meet friends and live life a bit. Don't you agree? I need this. Heck, we all do. Though before I go and talk about friendship, life, and love and what not...I'd better get going with some Pinterest fun. Don't know what it is? You better. Sign up and have fun. It's so simple and so addictive!! Beware! ;)

My pins this week were so random I laughed a little while working on this post...then again, random is not bad!!
In fact, I think sometimes we all need a little random in our lives. ;)

Don't forget to head on over and link up with Michelle, or look at other fabulous pins.

And even though today we are having 85 degrees...unbelievable...I am secretly dreaming of winter...with snow and bitter cold moments. Speaking of which though...I may be heading to Illinois this December. For maybe a week. Unfortunately, not so much to the Chicago area. I know, I suck. :( In the meantime I can dream of winter, can't I?!

And yes, since last week was rather a difficult week and I was hoping to cheer up over the weekend (which I did, by the way!), I still decided to share this last pin with you all.

click on pictures for sources

We are all a little sad from time to time. It's part of life I guess.
BUT today and for the rest of this month I try not to be sad at all. I try to embrace life and smile at it every single day. :)

Hope you had a fantastic day!!!
And yes, hop on over to Michelle's and link up!!

Happy November

2011-11-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

When I grew up I was looking forward to November 1. Yes, not Halloween but November 1. It was the first day during our first half of school year that we got off. I never knew why but I really didn't care either. Today I know what November 1 stands for and although I do not have any classes today, I am not entirely happy. Today, my thoughts are not here in California but with my family and one friend in Europe. My thoughts are also with whoever out there who has lost someone special in his or her life.

But to a slight brighter topic...I cannot believe it is already November. How did that happen? Soon enough 2011 will be history. But of course Christmas needs to happen first. YAY!!! The past ten months have been quite interesting, challenging, eye-opening, tragic, sad, and simply worth it.

Ten months ago I celebrated the New Year with my friends here in California, and baaammm I am back in California - for longer than just the regular month and a half. Ten months ago I didn't know I would find myself in a so-called pickle for the past four weeks and end up sick. I am doing slowly better now, but really I would have never thought of October being such a pain in the butt. Emotional stress, and pressure can make you extremely sick. Trust me. Ten months ago I would not have thought to get sad every time I hear a few particular songs that would remind me of those harsh and brutal three days in March. It pains me and at the same time gives me strength. Ten months ago I would have never thought I'd be writing this today either. Life has changed quite a bit for me. I am not sure whether or not this is the right path in life but hey, don't we all just follow certain paths in life not 250% sure if that path is the right one?
Ten months ago I would have never thought to be much closer to certain friends, and to have lost contact to those that I thought would care more. Life and its constant ups and downs.

In other words...I just wanted to say hello and tell you that yes I am still alive, doing better and looking forward to this month to be a fantastic one. I want to do things, explore places, meet people and friends so I can clearly say that yes, I lived this month as strongly and as beautifully as even possible.

Enough said.
Sorry for the weird post, but it just needed to be said.

Happy November!!!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T01:00:00.000-07:00

I am back lovely readers...yes I know I was away for quite some time, and I was not really myself either. I tried so hard to be myself and to live life, but I failed. Miserably. I am appalled at myself. Yes, only at myself. Lots has happened in the past four weeks, and I tried to keep up a normal face, a normal pose, and not show emotions until last week. I let go off everything and anything and it felt good. I had a Selma-cry day. Literally. And figuratively. A few of you know what happened and I want to keep it between us. It's not something I want to yell out loud and share with the world. Not my proudest time of the month, or the week or the year, but I am doing much much better now.

I hope you enjoyed Sierra's guest post on Friday. I loved it. I was so looking forward to fall and Halloween but literally failed to enjoy it. I got sick, and it wasn't the flu. I still am trying to recover. It'll take some time. However, I know I did the right thing and will smile again soon. So I am more than just grateful for a little bloggy help here and there when it's needed. Thank you again, Sierra, for your help.

Her lil' post got me into Halloween mood again...and since today is the official day of one of my favorite holidays...I just had to share some pictures with you all. Ready?!

Have a spooky day!!!
Or not. ;)

Home Decor - Gearing Up for Halloween

2011-10-28T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's just me, an ocean dreamer again. ;)

While my bestie is catching up on some much deserved sleep from her crazy schedule...

I'm here to entertain you with some fun Halloween photos!

But wait...not just your everyday photos.

Here are some Hallowen interior design decor photos!

Sorry, I'm in a funny mood because it's 2AM my time, lol.

Leave it to Martha Stewart to impress us...

A very black and dark kitchen, perfect for Halloween!

Country Living! Loving the orange roses!

These plates are SO rad.

SPOOKY!

This is just the sweetest!

So...have you decorated your homes for Halloween time?

I can't believe it's on Monday already!

Have a Happy Halloween and send Selma some bloggy love...

She needs some!

xoxo, Ocean Dreams

Monday Blues

2011-10-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, guys...I was spoiled last week (and didn't post about it...boo on me!) and now this week is going to be a b****. To top it all I am getting sick, too. Isn't this lovely? I have an exam Monday morning, a horrible class after that exam and a paper due Wednesday. My stomach already bugs me because I know I am going to fail this paper. I put so much effort in it but it's not what my professor wants or appreciates. I mean, I don't want to be one of those people writing a paper in 30 minutes and get an A. Well, scratch that, I actually want to be one of those...but I am not. I feel I need to read more, explore and research more. Apparently whatever I've been doing for the past almost four weeks isn't enough and she thinks I'm not doing my job. It pisses me off. Believe me. Then again, two very different world collide when we both sit down and it is not very helpful. Not even challenging. I'm just irked and very stressed.

With that being said...I will be a little more missing in action but hopefully will be back later on this week...hopefully. I miss you all.

Happy thoughts are needed.
Always.
We all know that.

Trust me, my diet after this Wednesday is going to be very sweet!!!!!

Hope you had a great weekend and a fantastic week!!

What I've been up to

2011-10-18T23:02:00.000-07:00

...I hardly recognize myself. I love to write, and share with you what I've been up to but I hardly find time to sit down and do anything else besides my redundant studies and researches. I never thought I'd have such a hard time settling in, getting used to everything and all. I had too much fun enjoying life and now school work is driving me nuts. Wish I could just find a job that pays well, that makes me happy, and just allows me to be myself and live life as much as even possible. Oh well...gotta dream, right?

Either way, I thought I'd sit down once I have time or the energy to do something else and well, here I am sharing some photos with you. Some of you may recognize these, but I still wanted to share some "me time" with you all. I think it's okay for me to do so, right?

Not the best shot but I had some Sushi with my bestie, Sierra.

Hmmm, now I'm kinda hungry again.

You know, when you are bored and you have no idea what you are doing and where you are...or you do but you have to wait until you can get in...all you have to do is take out your phone and camera and take some fun shots... :)

That was Friday night's dinner...they guys went to a game, the girls went to have some yummy food. :)

Hmmm, I think that's supposed to be me. I love this shot. Thanks Sierra for a fun day and a great new profile pic of moi. ;)

A friend of mine made these from scratch. Thousand times better than from a so-called coffee shop. Trust me, they were delicious...we ate 'em all. Fast.

Can never get enough of these paws. They are so soft it's ridiculous.

They just need to be trimmed and cleaned like every day. Grrrrr....

This pretty much sums it all up.
I've been incredibly busy.
Yes, busy is good.
However, busy can also be terrible, and I happen to just forget to drink and eat sometimes. Not at all good. So yeah. I also try to find some time to just relax and do whatever I want to do and not what those professors want us to do. They may still think I'm 18 (hahaha, I so don't wish!!), and I am not. I'm old enough to know that there are better things out there and more important things, too, that make up life. Education is a fantastic value and a great tool to get ahead in life but sometimes it is not everything. It simply isn't. Life is the greatest teacher of all...and a PhD and all cannot alter this fact. Ha, my sole opinion, so if you disagree...I am fine with that. I really am.

Oh, and in the midst of all...I have been trying to catch up on blogs. Crazy me.
I may not always comment but you lovely bloggers out there just know I am enjoying reading you and nothing can stop me from engaging myself with some fun blog stories and all. :)
Thank you.

Have a brilliant day!!!!

Eye Candy on a Monday

2011-10-16T23:49:00.000-07:00

I am quickly back guys. I wanted to post something else but heck I had this post ready and well, here I am. I am still super busy and pissed, and well exhausted. I looked at my last post too and laughed my butt off. My grammar really went down the freakin' tube...but it's all good. I'm gonna leave it as is so when I go through my posts and see it again I will know I was really out of it that that week. And guys, yes I was out of it and not really touching ground these days.

HOWEVER, and I have to mention it on here...my prayers were finally answered. No I haven't met my soul mate nor did I find a job that would allow me to do something else right now besides school. BUT, one of my classes got cancelled for Monday. You have no idea how happy this made me. Seriously. I have to admit I danced a little too. I am that excited....I am still smiling. I'm a dork I know but come on...the class I cannot stand the most (and the one I busted my butt off this entire week, and weekend - darn it!!) got cancelled. I am excited, thrilled, exhausted, sad, mad, and just super happy. Awwwww....at least something on Monday is awesome!!!!

Okay now to the fun part... I gave in and a couple of weeks ago I went to the movies and well got inspired by it. It wasn't the best movie, but it was okay and I am not mad I spent money on that ticket. At least I got out of the house...mingled. Somehow. ;) And definitely distracted myself...school's a drag, but I digress...

The main reason behind me starting off today's blog post like this is Leeann's Man Candy Monday series. This week, a fun guest blogger Christiana is taking over Leeann's Monday fun post and oh my...her beau is one of my favorites. ;) Great choice girl. ;)
Well, and as said as it may sound I am slowly running out of fun and sexy men ideas. How is that even possible?! Really. Apparently it is not. I just found a new inspiration. :) Yay. Let's hope it lasts a little longer. ;)

So, without further blablablahhhh from my side...here's my yummy man for this week!

Chris Evans.
Don't know him?
That's alright. Just google him, or imdb him...I'm sure something comes up. ;)

Happy Monday everyone!!! :)

xoxo

Exhausted

2011-10-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry guys, I am be very MIA this week.

Too much is going on, too much is bothering me, and I am about to have a mental breakdown.

This will is a crazy one...but I promise I'll be back soon...I hope.

xoxo,

Selma

Today's Inspiration...

2011-10-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

...comes from this song. Not sure why I am drawn to this song. I am not religious, never was and never will be (no offense to anyone), but I do go to church occasionally (and compared to the church I grew up with the one I attend feels like Disneyland - so thank you for making it fun!!) and some of my close friends do go to church and I am fine with that and they are ~~hopefully~~ fine with my view on life and all. I don't judge and I accept them and everyone else for who they are and what they believe in, whether or not it collides with my beliefs and views. What I'm trying to say here I often find myself listening to religious songs, mainly because the melody is awesome, or something else attracts me in that moment. Same goes for this song. Most of my music inspiration I get mainly from the radio stations (and then combine that song with the area and mood I am currently in) and movies and TV shows. I know I found this song from a show but really, my brain is fried with all kinds of weird stories and theories and all that I cannot remember when and where I found this particular song. Nonetheless, here I am writing about it.

In a nutshell, I love this song.
It's my inspiration these days.
It makes me feel whole.
It makes me want to sip on hot chocolate with marshmallows and wear my fluffy socks and just sit next to the window and look out.
It creates a sort of happiness in me.
Does this make any sense?
I hope so.

Hope you had a wonderful day!

What a Pinteresting day!

2011-10-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

So, today like every other Wednesdays I am enjoying craziness. Wednesdays are my Fridays which is awesome, but at the same time I feel like it's the craziest day ever. Not sure why though. On most Wednesdays I have to turn in papers, and freak out about math quizzes or what not. Who would have thought I'd be going back to school, let alone enroll in a math class? Certainly not moi. But, what can I say, I am here and I am about to explode because really I have so much on my mind and so little time to digest it all or to even understand.

To be really honest...my mind hasn't acknowledged the fact that I'm actually back in California. I am not stuck in Europe, but I haven't fully landed over here either. I have been sort of floating around which is an awful feeling because I really truly want to be standing on solid ground. Then again, I believe this is part of life and part of what needs to happen regardless of anything else. We shall see...

...but even though today is a busy day, like most Wednesdays and Mondays in general, I found some time to sit down and distract myself...and I'm linking up with Michelle again!

Thank you Pinterest, too. You make me sane again. Ha!

Here are my favorites of this week...very random, but I gotta admit I love each and every one of them.

and my two favorites are\

Happy Wednesday everyone!!!

Wohoo you're kinda hot! ;)

2011-10-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

It's time for some Man Candy Monday again.

Missed it a few times and I'm glad to be linking up today.

Mondays are usually so dreadful but with eye candy in the morning it sure gets fun and yummy. ;)

And really, I am speechless today so I'm just going to share the following pictures!
And...I'm going with someone else this time...

Do I really have to say who this is?
If so...I'll be even more speechless than I already am.

Why him, you ask?
Simple.
He's hot.
I'm not a huge a fan of his new lifestyle and "wife", but hey, he's still hot...I just had to share him here.

So, now, all you have to do is look at more hot stuff and your day can begin! :)

Happy Monday!

Sunday Funday!

2011-10-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

How's everyone's weekend?!

Mine started Thursday but I worked most day to get a lot of things done for school which is fabulous, and Friday wasn't any different. Woke up, ate breakfast while watching the morning news, caught up on a few blogs, went to a meeting, read a few passages in a book, reviewed notes on Humanities, relaxed, and enjoyed the sun!

I love when the sun comes out around noon or even later than that and its rays enlighten the whole room, or park. Love love love it!!! I don't mind morning fog at all. Really, not at all. Unfortunately, the awesome warm air is going to leave us for a while and we'll be apparently seeing temps in the 60s this upcoming week. Not bad either.

So my weekend has been good so far...Friday night was fun. We went to StyleWeekOC and had a blast. I am certainly not complaining. I even took pictures, I'm so proud of myself. AND, we even briefly met Nick Verreos.That was fun. Yay!!!! Unfortunately, I didn't take a picture with him but my friends did. I know I'm lame. However, my friend and shopping buddy M allowed me to post the picture I took with him on my blog and well, so here we go (don't they kind of look alike?!):

We had fun playing games, talking, looking at clothes and all, and taking pictures before, during and after the fun Friday event. The weekend started awesome!

And of course we went hiking on Saturday and had a fabulous time as well. My workout for that day was complete!! Hopefully, October is going to be as terrific as it started!

T.G.I.F.

2011-09-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

Near my school there's this small pumpkin patch and I wonder when it opens. I'm kinda freaking out because I have been longing for fall, and pumpkin patches, and whatnot...and hello, having a pumpkin patch near my school is amazing. Then again, it looks closed and may open this weekend?! Grrrr.... I absolutely cannot wait.
I also go gaga over anything and everything fall/pumpkin/Halloween related. No shopping mall or store is safe anymore. My wallet is screaming and crying daily and my camera is loaded with pics. It's my little crazy fall obsession. That's allowed, right?! Besides the awesome smelling PSL I have to go get today. It's gorgeous outside with temps in the mid 70s and I am loving it. Granted, it's not particularly fall weather but to me it is. I always wanted September/early October to be sunny and relatively warm. Not foggy, rainy, and all. So I get what I was hoping for. Finally.

How has everyone's week been so far?
As for my own...I got one exam back and I could not believe my own eyes...I received a big fat A. Yay!! Moreover, my professor told me (and these were his exact words, and if you read my tweets this week you've read that already)

"I see the intelligence in your eyes"

Hello?! Really?! Are you for real? Then again, thank you professor, you totally made my day and week!

Oh one more thing before I head back out into the real world...I hope to take some pretty pictures soon so I can share some fun time with y'all. How about that?! Fall in an inspiring time and one that needs to be lived well, with a pink camera in tow of course!

Have a fantastic day.

Have a Pinteresting Day!

2011-09-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, finally I am back on track (or almost) and can participate in Oh, how Pinteresting! I am obsessed with Pinterest and if you are on it you know what I mean by that. If not, you gotta give it a try because whenever I feel down or without inspiration I find comfort there. Sounds incredibly corny I know but that site has some inspirational power sometimes...ha! ;)

Without further ado...here are my favorite pins of this past week... :D

Obviously, I am in love with my area and my city! :)

I have to confess something here...

...and I remind myself weekly...I should do it daily I know!!

click on images for source (sorry about the weird spacing issues today!)

Have an excellent day everyone!
It's been a very hectic week so far...I am utterly exhausted!

And I lost my voice!
How awful is that?

M.O.N.D.A.Y.

2011-09-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

Yes.
This is what I need today. All of it. Nothing less, nothing more.

I may have too many nail polishes now...

2011-09-23T15:32:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I was going to get me some new nail polishes today at cheaper prices. Most of them are either 50% off regular price or even more than that. I already love the 50% off anything so you can just imagine little me going gaga over OPI and Essie at that location.

Some of you (thank you) suggested a few colors and I was looking and looking and found out they may actually come in next week or mid-October. The newer colors or more popular ones are not sold there yet (obviously, getting more money for a product is always better!). So I got different colors instead. And since it's pretty much 90 degrees outside I just can't start with fall colors yet. It just doesn't feel right.

So here are my newest additions to the nail polish box...haha!

Some fun white-ish pink...Kiss the Bride by Orly!

and of course my favorite brand

Additionally I bought top coats, nail files, and had a fun girls' (mid) day. We even bought a few colors at $1 which is amazing...not sure if they last or not but hey, who turns down $1 nail polish?! Not me!

And since it's Friday, it's Friday Funny time!

I decided I am sharing some quite fun and very annoying video with y'all. This is pretty much what you get as far as entertainment goes when you are surrounded by children of all ages. And lately that's the case, besides going to school and reading weird books. NOT that I would ever allow my kid to watch this but oh well...they introduced me to the annoying world...and since I love Wasabi...I just couldn't resist! But I'd ruin that orange...really!

Happy Friday everyone!!

Happy early weekend!

2011-09-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

Guys, I found time to blog...can you believe it?

I wanted to participate in two weekly fun posts Leeann and Michelle do Mondays and Wednesdays but nope...I've been too busy studying my butt off with weird books and notes from my humanities class. I had a gigantic test today and I have no idea how I did. I have mixed feelings. I studied well but once that paper with all kinds of questions was facing me I froze again. I wrote and answered that's for sure! But I am not sure if I did it right. At least I wrote something and shared my thoughts on it not like others leaving after 30 minutes and going home. This by the way, freaked me out. Who leaves a test in 30 minutes when you have 90 minutes left to work on a test? At least leave after one hour. So not sure what they did or didn't do. Then again I don't care. :)

So, if I'm not overwhelmed with books on human nature and civilization and sexual drives (yes, I said it!) I try to sit back and relax, either while walking the boys (or do they walk me sometimes?!), watch the News (have to admit my guilty pleasure is the morning news from 7am on), and watch all kinds of TV shows. I need to redirect my passiveness after class and homework towards something else...and just walking to get back into shape alone doesn't do it...I need more. So, I'm thankful for any kind of distraction, TV included. :)

My favorites so far? Besides Hawaii 5-0, Castle, the Vampire Diaries, Modern Family...I found some new addictions. The Ringer is one of them, and hopefully Hart of Dixie too. The latter one had some fun event going on yesterday and you can read a bit about it on Annemarie's blog. I am excited to see it!

But to show you some proof that I am alive and doing well, despite my vague tweets and blog posts...here's what I look like when I am happy and playing with dogs, or trying to make them look at the camera! *major fail* And sorry, it's a phone pictures...not the best quality! ;)

Have a good Wednesday!!

MIA

2011-09-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry, been MIA lately.
Don't know why. Nothing big is happening over here but I know I am just super occupied with school and assignments and it drives me insane. However, I know I am a lot happier now than I was before, and if going back to school and me living in California again does it all to me, I am more than just fine with that.

Hope you still know who I am. Hahaha!!!
I will definitely catch up on everyone and everything....
...let this day just end and I'll be fine.

And yes, I am going to hug a dog now!!! Two to be exact!!! :)

My 7 links

2011-09-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

A while back I was thinking "hey, I should take a look at my old (embarrassing) posts and just see how awful I did" and then a few days after that, I was tagged by awesome Erin from Living and Loving in L.A., and I just knew I had to do this post. Granted it took me a while to do this but it was so much fun to go back and read my posts and relive what I shared with you. So, anyways, without further blahblah here's the tag-post I'm going to share with you all.
Thanks Erin!!!

These are the rules:

1) Blogger is nominated to take part
2) Blogger publishes his/her 7 links on his/her blog – 1 link for each category.
3) Blogger nominates up to 5 more bloggers to take part.
4) These bloggers publish their 7 links and nominate another 5 more bloggers

Here are my links:

Most beautiful

Philly in Pictures
and ironically another one linked to the first
I'm weird, You're weird, We're weird

Why beautiful? Philly is beautiful! By just going through these posts made me miss the East Coast a little more. I had the best time with friends and family and I just fell in love with Philadelphia. Never thought I would, but I did and I cannot wait to go back there soon!!

Most popular

Oh Pinterest...

For some reason my participation that week was greatly appreciated...haha.
I am also very much in love with this picture!

Most controversial

Happy Friday

I chose this post to be the most controversial because again, I bet you we have forgotten most of this. I could go on here and lecture you and me about how fast time goes and easily we forget and how very superficial we all can be, and even are. But I won't. I won't tell you that. It's not the place nor the time to do so, and I believe deep within we know this. Do we accept our ignorance? Maybe. We shall never know.

Most helpful

...

As much as I didn't want to share this again I simply had to. It felt good writing about it, and it still feels good today. It helped a ton and I am grateful for this blogger community, and its support and understanding.

J. is missed daily.
It's funny, one thing I missed on my birthday was that she didn't say "Happy Birthday", and now she'd be proud of me knowing I am back to a place I missed and loved so much. She certainly would be proud. J. you know you are missed. But I know you're having a good time, and that you're watching over us. I know you are. I see and feel it every day.

Post whose success surprised you

Love and other things

Can't say it's a successful post but I loved the pictures I chose, and I love the fact that I could be honest and write it all out. And I was surprised that I actually had time to focus on love...even just for a little or that week and month in general.

Post you feel didn't get the attention it deserved

Green is the new black!

Over the past few months I learned more about recycling and reusing and I still love it. I am also trying to teach my friends how to do it better. They throw away all kinds of recyclable items it breaks my heart. Where I live we have a trash room and in that trash room we have two slots. One for rubbish (literally says rubbish) and the other one is for recycling. There's this neat sign above it explaining what goes in there, and trust me, all those items there are usually thrown into the regular trash bag at home so I always see that and yes, I always take it out and separate it. Granted, it's not the most classy move, but hey, I gotta do what I gotta do and I am teaching my roommates to do the same. Water and milk bottles, shampoo bottles, hand soap, and even the Nutella jar/bottle thing are all recyclable. Add the Ketchup bottle, too, and all kinds of other things and you awesome. :) Just look at it. If it's plastic, or carton, or even paper or glass it is going into the recycling slot, if not it may as well belong into the rubbish slot. Easy as that.

And for those that get money out of all the recyclable stuff...you know what I'm talking about. If not, you have to go back to recycling 101 and learn about the triangle and its number indicating what the plastic stands for. ;) Hehe.

Post that you are most proud of

Fashion. Coming from me? No Way!

This post comes very close to the most popular. In fact my stats were out of control. However, I chose this to be the post I am most proud of. Not because it's fashion, and not because it hit so many clicks, but because I was writing about my friend and her passion. I am immensely proud of her and her accomplishments. Very proud!!!

So, I am done for today! Yay!!! Hope you enjoyed my little links for today.
I decided to do this fun post today instead of my regular rants or inspirations. I am not a fan of tagging people and answering questions but we gotta do this sometimes, don't we?!

Speaking of which...I am somehow tempted to do a Q&A thing and I am not sure if I should. What do you think?!

And here are five bloggers I nominate for this fun tag post:

Sierra @ Ocean Dreams
Amy @ Crazy Random Happenstances
Sam @ A Careless Man's Careful Daughter
Ashely @ She's Come Undone
Christianna @ The Girl With The Blue Bow
Leeann @ Join the Gossip

Happy Fall!

2011-09-15T07:39:00.000-07:00

September 15th, literally marks the beginning of fall for me. Normally I'd say it's September 1st, but I changed it to 15th. Mid-September feels closer to October and November. So yes,

HAPPY FALL!

Do I sound excited? I better.

I love this season. I just wished there was real fall weather here in California. Although I have to admit, winter here feels more like fall to me or what fall should be or how I always wanted fall to be. Whatever, I'm sure you get my point. I love the colorful leaves, the cooler breeze, the sweater season!
And of course, duh, Halloween!

What's your favorite thing of fall season?!

For me it's mainly the warm days with a light cooler breeze, and the sun still warming your skin when you sit outside. The fact that you're wearing a sweater and sipping on a warm drink but not start sweating because what you wear and drink works perfectly together is one amazing feeling.

And what I'm looking forward to is Pumpkin Patches!

They don't really exist in Europe, so finally having moved back here I am counting down to go to one. Just one. Please?!

Now the question is...to which one?!

Anyone know "the" best in the Los Angeles area?! I'm leaning towards two.
Just want to know your input if you got one. Thanks in advance.

I am clearly excited!!
And it's only mid-September. What is October going to be like?!

♥ Selma

Oh boy!

2011-09-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have one more day to turn in my paper!!!

I am not behind but I just don't seem to understand the teacher and her ways of teaching and what she truly wants us to do. Luckily, I am not alone and my friend takes the same class and for some reason she's in the same dilemma. Either way, I wish I could be this little girl for the rest of this week...feeling overwhelmed with what to do with all those flowers and not to have worry about money, grades, the future, and what not.

Only good and amazing thing of today?

It is hot again...maybe not as hot but hot enough for me to sit at the pool and read a little if I feel I need a time-out from a weird English paper!!!

Hope you have better plans for today!

Even if you work today, I'd take that over my studying.

Happy Tuesday.

♥ Selma

Man Candy Monday!

2011-09-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everyone!
I have a long day ahead of me...three classes, and I will end up home by around 9.30pm. Not something I look forward to. However, I made this decision and I'm going to live with this decision and make the best out of this. Wish me luck!!!

But this post would not be if I didn't link up with Leeann and her fun Man Candy Monday series. I certainly need it today and most probably every other Monday until I am done with Humanities, English, and Math (triple yuck! - it was my choice so I'm blaming it entirely on me and you are more than welcome to do the same).

So, in order to make me happy (and hopefully you, too) here's my Man Candy for today (or this week).

click on photo for source

Paul Walker!!!
Sigh....

Happy Monday everyone!
I am smiling.
Oh and don't forget to link up with Leeann!!!

♥ Selma

TGIF?

2011-09-09T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I am not entirely happy it is Friday. Yes, there I said it. I chose today to work on my English paper and it seems to go nowhere. I have no idea how to start that crappy thing, and it is due next week. Not the entire paper but just the beginning of it but if the beginning fails to even stimulate my teacher's approval somewhere down the line I will fail later on. Grrrrr...at least it's not math!!

Anyhow, since pretty much Tuesday I've been working on getting better. Yes, I have been sick. Not sure why but yes, the bathroom and I are very close friends now. It's that kind of sick you get out of nowhere and don't know where it went when it's gone.

And if you follow the news...southern California (thankfully not all of it) had some fun power outage yesterday. I was home most of the day sleeping, doing homework, relaxing and all. I initially wanted to get some fresh air later on that day when the temps cooled down a little, but nope I had to go out earlier. The phone rang and we were told to pick up my friend's brother because his classes got all canceled due to no power. Hmmmm. We thought it was a joke but apparently not. So we drove and what normally is a ten-minute drive, or a five-minute drive from the exit we would take to the school...turned out to be a 40-minute turn/drive. People went nuts. Apparently some people don't know how to drive when it comes to using lights as stop signs. PLUS, why the heck did people get so upset over nothing!!! It's just power that's out. You are still alive, breathing, driving and picking up people...do not yell at me, or my friend, or anyone else for that matter. Do not tell us how to drive because clearly we can't move anymore since there's a car in front of us and hello?!, even if you could drive/pass us you would not be going anywhere either. YOU ARE STUCK.

Yes, we had some weird people yelling at us and pointing fingers and such. Not the most pleasant one. We ignored those for most part until it got nasty so we returned the favor. And for the record, we were not blocking the street or intersection. Just saying.

Luckily when we got home we still had power, so we really practically lived at the borderline of that power drama.

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

And to make this week fun and positive, rather than aggressive and dull...I am in love with two things this week:

Do I need to say more? Clearly NOT.

And the following product:

I am clearly in heaven whenever I use this!!

Never thought I'd be so happy using a product but I am.

That's pretty much everything for this week.
It's been a hectic one, and a long one. I blame it on the long weekend we had last week and the fact that I got sick some time this earlier this week. Still recovering, still working, still breathing and all this with electricity!!!

Hope you are having a fabulous Friday and a fantastic weekend!!

Oh, how Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-09-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

Today, I decided to participate again in "Oh, how Pinteresting Wednesday". I feel it's time because not only does Pinterest inspire me it distracts me big time, and I have to admit I love it!

So, thanks to Michelle's weekly linkup...here are my pictures of this week:

and my favorite for this week; and this season!!!

Do you see a common theme here?

Ha, of course. :) Fall.

Not that it started over here but it's still one of my favorite seasons!!
Wohoo!!! :D

Happy Wednesday everyone.

Three classes for me today, and then I'm done for today.
And well, my day yesterday and today started out nicely...I had some awesome tasting pumpkin spice latte!!!
Did you?
I just wish it wasn't 95 degrees I'd be enjoying it more!!!

Monday update on my whereabouts

2011-09-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Hey my lovely readers!

Hope you're having a fabulous longer weekend and can relax a little or just sit back and enjoy life a little more than usual. For most of my downtime during this very long weekend I read books, slept in (woops!), did laundry, played with dogs, and explored the area. Living over here and knowing places doesn't mean I don't get excited anymore. There is always something to do and explore. I love this about big cities. Without further ado...here are some of my recent pictures...at least some proof I am still alive and all. ;)

I looked very unattractive but it was Disneyland...and a super hot day...so I went with whatever was comfy that day!!! :)

And I went with my friend and blog buddy Sierra from Ocean Dreams!!

And I found something that reminds me of home.
I knew it existed but didn't think we'd pass by it. ;)

More unattractiveness on a Friday mid day. Please ignore the wrinkled shirt and ugly pose. I was so not ready for this picture!! But please, blame it on the fact that I only had a four-hour night's rest and woke up at 5am. I went to bed early but simply couldn't sleep. And we somehow had to go through lots of administrative stuff that day.

At least we got to eat at Toast and relax for a while that same day.

I clearly am doing fabulous over here. :)
And I am trying to stay healthy, too. The picture above is proof enough, no?!

I have more pictures but I don't want to bother you, and me for that matter.

Happy Monday I guess.
Are y'all off?!
I am so glad I have no classes today.
I could not handle them now. At all.

Have a Saxobeat Weekend!

2011-09-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's Sierra from Ocean Dreams blog again! Selma asked me to keep you all entertained over the weekend so here I am!

Recently Selma has got me addicted to European music. I've always had an interested in Asian music, believe it or not, but when Selma introduced me to the song Saxobeat, I was hooked. It's such a catchy song and so much fun! My mom and I are in Montana right now and we totally had a blast singing this song in the car on repeat, I might add! Plus you can catch her accent, which is amazing by the way, so it made the song even better.

So of course I'm going to share a video of the song for you, but I'm also going to show you some pictures of Alexandra Stan, the artist. She's gorgeous!

Alexandra is an artist from Romania and she's only 22. Her first album, called Saxobeats, will be out this September. I'm most definitely going to buy it and Selma - you need to as well! ;)

I thought this would be the perfect song for me to send you out this holiday weekend. Go and have some fun because summer is coming to a close. The official video is such a fun story because she gets thrown in jail and has to figure out how to escape...it's great! Go and check it out.

I was having issues embedding the video since Blogger updated the new compose interface so instead to watch the video click LISTEN to go to head on over to YouTube to listen to it yourself.

If you want to learn more about Alexandra, here is her official website. So what do you think of the song? If you don't like it at first, give it time. It totally grows on you, seriously! Thanks so much Selma for getting me hooked on this song! ;)

Ugh

2011-08-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

Enough said.

Wish me luck tomorrow (obviously we already have a test!)...I'm already freaking out!!!

Weekend preview and Thanks!

2011-08-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

Happy weekend everyone.
I cannot believe one week has already gone by. I've been super busy with school, buying books, organizing the room, keeping my bank statement stable, and still living live and enjoying life. Sometimes you have to step back and relax, breathe, or just sit down and not do a thing. That's what I am going to do this weekend.

Relax, and enjoy life!

I have read half of a book I will not name here because really it was for school and it's not something I want others to read unless they have to or enjoy reading crazy interesting and disturbing ideas. I also have found a way to organize my computer and online school sites so I can actually work on what our prof wants us to do. I am old fashioned. I need paper, and a highlighter. Assingments and stuff online is weird to me and will never get accepted. :) Needless to say I have to print out a lot and mark stuff all funky in all kinds of colors! ;) I also have spent way too much this past week and my credit and debit cards are all hidden because really I don't want to spend money. Most of it anyways was for school and really nothing personal. I wish I had spent my big bucks on something I can be happy about. Granted, I bought Tory Burch sunglasses, and I more than just love them but that was actually last week. Time flew by like crazy. Just wow!!!

So of course, I want to distract myself and watch TV (Big Brother!, True Blood, KTLA morning shows (I'm addicted - nothing changed I still do this!), Pretty Little Liars, Against the Wall, etc), go shopping, go swimming, help friends with whatever's necessary, and well just enjoy life being simply being me walking in flip flops in the sun (with sunscreen of course!!!!). All I want is relaxation and ha, good grades!!!

I NEED A BREAK.

Ha!

But before I sign off for the weekend I would love to thank the following ladies for helping me out while I was busy before the even more busy parts in my life started...if you haven't checked out their awesome guest blogs for me and their blogs in general you are missing out big time!

Thank you

Sam, Meghan, Krysten, Sierra, and Amy!!!!!

Happy weekend everyone!!

♥ Selma

Fashion inspired

2011-08-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

Most of you know I love fashion, and I have to admit I also love certain designers or brands. I never talk about it though. And now I won't really either, but I have to confess that although I wanted to save money while I am back in California again I spoiled myself a little bit. I wanted to be a good girl and save, but easier said than done when your shopping buddy M is into fashion and makes you try on clothes and shoes and whatnot. I just wanted a dress, and what did I end up with? Two dresses, one top (which could be a dress too I assume) and a pair of new sunglasses. The latter inspired me to share with you...and since today is Fashion Friday...here it goes!

Tory Burch!

Thank you for my awesome new sunglasses! I love them.

I got them two days ago. Not that I wanted to buy sunglasses. We actually went shopping to look for a new pair of shoes that I would need this Saturday at a fundraiser party but nope, instead of the shoes I got me a pair of new sunglasses. Oh well. I will just attend the party with blue flip flops. And please don't freak out, it's an outdoor event on the grass and not super dooper formal, so it's okay! Sigh...

Going back to the fashion inspired post...I was browsing through the main website and found the following cute items...the boots are my favorite. Not because I love boots (I love them, but I can't wear them I'm too short and it just looks weird on me!), but because of what they are called. Tory Burch I love you even more!

Click on the shoe and see what they are called! I just love them because of that! :)

And to get a bit more fall inspired...here are my favorite shoes and items for this fall season.
Not that I'm gonna get any of these...unless someone else pays for it!

And to formally end my fashion inspired Friday post I thought I'd share an item I'd love to get for my birthday. Oh wait, it was in June. Never mind!

click on the image for source

And I decided to participate again in

Have a good Friday!!!

And hello new followers!!

♥ Selma

OMG

2011-08-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

Hello my readers...yes it is me!! Remember me?!
Good.

It's been one whole week that a post was written or posted on this little blog of mine and oh wow I am in shock! However, I have good reasons. No, I am not pregnant and dealing with morning sickness, or just had a baby but I decided to go back to school and school and its craziness just started and I am flipping out. YES, you read right. I am back in school and it's the first week of orientation, adding classes, petitioning for classes, finding classrooms, and then going back home doing all kinds of homework or assignments for the next sessions. It's overwhelming now. I will get used to it again but right now I am just very busy, very frustrated and very overwhelmed. I know by the end of this month or even beginning of next month I will slowly get some sort of a routine in that will allow me to stop by more often and to update you on my latest whereabouts.

My latest adventure, besides school and all kinds of brain related stress was Disneyland! Yes, in the middle of the first week of class I decided to go to Disneyland. It was long overdue, so I really enjoyed a day out with a dear friend of mine, enjoying fun rides, and super hot sun! I even got a slight sunburn on my chest which is not what I wanted but I ended up with one. Sunscreen or not, it still happened. Either way that was my latest excitement of the past couple of days. More on that later on, promised!!!

In the meantime...wish me luck with school and readings....I will be back in full force soon. But I'm glad I quickly found time to say hello and share with you what is going on in my life!!!

Until next time my lovely readers!!
Wish me luck!!

♥ Selma

Welcome Home, However You Define It

2011-08-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hello there! I'm Amy from Crazy Random Happenstances. I really appreciate Selma letting me write over here in her part of the blog world!

And before you get bored from my intro, let me jump right in to... Love Actually.

I love movies... and the second I saw the opening sequence of Love Actually I was mesmerized. In case you haven't seen it, the movie opens with raw video footage of the arrival gate at Heathrow airport. Hugs and kisses and love are flying around freely as people are reunited with friends and family.

It always makes me a little weepy.

Source: pancake.devote.se via Mimmi on Pinterest

Besides setting up the movie perfectly, it also makes me think of my childhood a little bit. I grew up with a father who travelled a minimum of 30 weeks a year. And we actually travelled some of the time with him. By the time I was in kindergarten, the arrival gate at the airport already had two significant meanings to me. One: the fun was over. Two: I got to sleep in my own bed that night. And let me tell you, the latter always beat out the former.

I just love coming back to something I've been away from. I loved walking into home and just feeling welcome, like there was nowhere else I belonged at that moment.

The "welcome home" sensation goes so far beyond travel. It reaches into our soul. "Welcome home" gives a sense of belonging. A sense of sanity. A sense of familiarity. And that's always something I look forward to.

Source: dana-made-it.com via Debbie on Pinterest

I always feel a bit nervous walking back to my house, luggage in tow, getting ready to settle down again and unpack. Like something's going to change, like I'm not going to find my groove again. But I always have been able to.

I get this same feeling whenever I get a chance to see my 2 year old nephew. His face lights up whenever I tell him hello. He runs towards me, like I'm the best thing he's ever seen. Mimi! Mimi! he cries (since he can't quite say Amy). It's adorable. And it's familiar. I look forward to it every time I go home to visit my family.

The same goes for yearly football games, black eyed peas on New Years, and putting up the Christmas tree. Making home feel welcoming through traditions is something everyone in the world can relate to.

I love how universal yet unique the "welcome home" sensation can be. Everyone's definition of "home" is different. But the sensation is the same.

In Love Actually the different "welcome home" realizations came in all different forms - one letting go of a love he's held on to too long, a few couples finding love, and an older couple just learning to deal with each other's failings - but the same sensation of l-o-v-e binds them all together. Which is the theme of the movie. "Love actually is all around." It's the love, in whatever form, that is at the base of "welcome home." And that's what I look forward to at any given moment of every day.

Source: shannoneileenblog.typepad.com via lila on Pinterest

What are some of your "welcome home" moments? What makes you feel safe and familiar?

I'd love to know.

Thanks for reading! And thanks to Selma for letting me write a little something over here. I really loved the opportunity!

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

Thank you Amy for this wonderful guest post!
I have been busy adjusting to home again, and this post made me almost cry! In a good way of course!! And yes, Love Actually is all around. You have to just open your eyes and let it in...it is around, but sometimes we are too blind to see or feel it!

Thanks again Amy!!! :D

♥ Selma

Hello!

2011-08-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I am back, in almost full force.

Lots has been happening over here and I am thrilled I am blogging from this site of the world and not from Europe anymore. I have to admit I had mixed feelings coming back here, starting from new, learning everything again, and figuring out what life is all about but I have awesome friends who support me, and cheer me up by simply being them and being there for me when I feel down. It's one huge family I sort of moved in with and I love it. I also love the freedom I get from time to time because really, if you come from a huge family you know what I mean. You need your space, you need you-time, and sometimes it is just too darn hard to do that when you are surrounded by so many people. However, I love that all sorts of family members (our age that is) come over for an occasional BBQ, a pool party, a shopping trip or call to say hi or let us know what they think of our current situation - or piss us off. I still love it though.

Moreover, my friends are going through some rough patches at the moment which we all go through at some point in life and I am here for them and willing to help as much as I possibly can. They are helping me out by letting me be part of their life and family and this is really the least I can do.

So, what have I been up to lately?!

Looking mostly at my palm trees. And yes I say "my" palm trees...I am fully aware of the fact that they don't belong to me but they make me feel at home so I allow myself to call them mine. :)

But other than that...I have been up north to my very missed and loved city of Santa Barbara. I have met old school friends, and I also have met new people, and old friends again. I went to Huntington Beach to chill at the beach and look at some surf competitors, spend some time shopping so I am ready for the next few months while I am here and ready for a summer party this upcoming Saturday! I spent a ton of money (not too much, but enough so I feel broke!).

Oh and yes I bought a laptop, went to school (ugh, but I wanted it), watched a ton of movies, played some fun card games, listened to what people had to say because clearly I am not used to speaking English anymore. Seriously. If you don't speak any language for over one month or more it is not easy to get back into the language game. Besides that, badminton has become my new August passion! We play it every evening, and let me just tell you it's a fantastic workout!

I can't believe it's mid-August already. Where did the time go? Seriously.
Though mid-August means school is going to start for me soon, AND I am going to see THIS lady pretty soon too!!! Wohoo! :) And hopefully after that I am back in the blogger world...on a more regular basis!!

Have a fantastic day everyone!

♥ Selma

Live With Soulfulness

2011-08-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

While my fabulous best friend is still getting adjusted to our sunny California, I (aka Sierra from Ocean Dreams blog) am happy to be here guest posting for you all again!

Today I'm supposed to be writing and working, but I got a little caught up in a film called Soul Surfer. Have you seen it? It's SO amazing! I admit, I was a bit hesitant about watching it at first. I have a hard time watching someone go through pain, especially a limb being severed from your body. I most definitely cried when Bethany was attacked in the film and by the end of the movie, I was crying due to her perseverance and strength.

It made me really think about people who have come out of tragedy stronger than ever before. Sometimes I wonder why things have to happen a certain way, but I feel there is always a greater plan. Wonderful things can come out of a tragic accident. In Bethany's case, she allowed wonderful things to come her way by not backing down or ever surrendering. In fact - I was in awe of how calm she was through her accident and how eager she was to get back into the waves after her accident.

I've always had a secret fear of the ocean water and what lurks beneath the waves. This fear doesn't prevent me from going out into the waters, but I do most often wonder what is lurking beneath the shore. When I was in Maui about three years I was playing in the water near our time share. The water was murky. All of a sudden I felt an incredible amount of pain on my leg.

Well, it turns out I had been stung by a jelly fish! I know my encounter in no way compares to Bethany's accident, but it did scare me. My jelly fish sting healed, but I was in a lot of pain limping around for the next few days while I was in Maui. I would say my sting was at least 3-4 inches long. And yes, I admit I had to "pee on my wound" as they tell you to do. Believe me - it helps when your are in that much pain. It really made me thankful though that it wasn't something else that attacked me.

Through Bethany's story I've been inspired to live with soulfulness. Instead of letting her accident destroy her, she did quite the opposite! She currently is a professional surfer who gives to others and inspires everyone to never give up. I think there is so much conviction in this film that we can apply into our own lives.

I'm proud of Selma for taking the leap and following her dreams! Don't forget to follow your dreams too. Oh, and watch Soul Surfer! It's incredible!

Bloggy Friends

2011-08-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hi all! My name is Krysten and I blog over at After 'I Do'.

When Selma asked me to do a guest post for her I sat and really thought about what I wanted to write. I tend to take guest posts far more seriously than the post I put on my own blog because, well, I don't like letting my blog friends down!

And then I started thinking about friends in general. Over the last few years I've gone through some major transitions with friends and when I really started getting into blogging it was because I was feeling lonely. And very quickly I started meeting people from all over the world that I began to call my friends.

{via}

When I talk to people that are not part of the blog world I feel like they don't quite understand how I can call people I've never met friends. It's something that can't be explained, you just have to experience it. In the year and a half that I've really buckled down with blogging I've met some amazing people that I love and adore. Blog friends that maybe I've never met but nonetheless aren't any less important that the friends that I see from day to day.

{via}

I've seen some really amazing things happen because of the blog world. And I've met some really amazing people. I know I'm thankful to have made the friends that I have through this internet world. I of course count Selma in that! This blog world is all sorts of wonderful. And the people I've met through it are some of my very favorite.

Who have you met through blogging? Do you think you're a better person because of them?

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

Thank you Krysten for this terrific blog post!!
The blog world also changed my world and my view on blogs in general. I never thought I would say this but it is true. Blog friendships cannot be explained they need to be experienced! I so agree!!!!
I am so thankful Krysten helped me out while I am re-organizing my life these days....

...see? That's also what blog friends are for! :D

Thanks again girl!!! :D

Now go say hi to Krysten and have a blast while browsing through her blog. You won't be disappointed.

Man Candy Monday - Finally again!

2011-08-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

It has been a while I know, and I have to say I missed MCM...however, I am back and I thought I'd give it a try again. I asked friends if they had any idea or wishes and really...lame...they didn't. So I had to come up with hot guys (not that I don't know any!!!). Either way, I am digressing. Please blame it on the hovering jet lag. Yes, it's still around; not as heavy anymore but still annoying. :D

So, happy Monday!!!
Enjoy the eye candy of today!

click on picture for source

Ryan Gosling!

Wohooooooooo!!!

Enough said.

Hope you're having an awesome day.
I know I am, although it's Monday!

And stay tuned for some more upcoming guest posts...I am still not settled in yet. But soon, I promise!!

♥ Selma

Quick Hello

2011-08-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hi my lovely readers,

How have you all been?
How's life, and how has this week been for ya?!

My life's a big mess right now but a good big mess.
For all of you that don't know it yet, I moved to southern California one week ago and am trying to adjust, sleep, soak up the sun (or shall I say heat?!), swim, walk, and just have fun. Thankfully I am not completely alone and I have amazing friends helping me out. Without them I'd be horribly lost and alone. I, more or less, walked into one huge family and it's been fun so far. Best thing ever so far?! We BBQ every single night by the pool (with real BBQ sauce, just FYI!)! I love that because it gives us a chance to sit back and relax.

Unfortunately, my blog's a bit neglected lately...but I am still trying to check in from time to time, catching up on all of you and your whereabouts. And, speaking of friends that are helping me out these days, I have a few awesome blog friends that are helping me out, too. I sure feel blessed and happy now!!!

Happy Friday everyone!!!!
WOW, I cannot believe one week has already passed by.
I am amazed, and in shock. Just wow!

♥ Selma ♥

Top 5 Travel Trips

2011-08-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! My name is Meghan, and I blog over at The Perfect Compilation Tape. I was really excited when Selma asked me to guest post, because I think we can all agree that she is one amazing lady. She is such a thoughtful woman, and I just love reading about her many travels, so I figured that perhaps a post on traveling was appropriate!

One of the many things you can usually find on my blog is my weekly "Top 5 Thursdays". Therefore, I thought I'd share with you my Top 5 Travel Tips! I am certainly no expert, but have been fortunate to travel around the U.S. and spent two weeks in Europe last summer, so this is what has worked for me.

5.) Cash in your change!

via

I am a firm believer in paying for vacations upfront. I never want to be in debt when I return from a getaway. One thing that my husband and I do before every trip is save all of our loose change in a jar/bucket/etc. We cash it in right before we leave, and use that money to have nice meals when we're traveling. Before we left for Boston last March, we cashed in our change, and it paid for all of our meals for three days!

4.) Pack wisely.

I'm definitely one who is known for pushing the 50 pound limit with my luggage when flying, but when I had to cram everything into one backpack for two weeks last summer in Europe, I certainly refined my packing skills. One item I found extremely helpful were packing cubes. I purchased them here, and they were a great way to "decrease" the size of my clothes and keep them organized at the same time.

3.) Stay active.

(Biking the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Ignore the crazy hair. It was a windy day. The wild hair is also representative of the day. I was later hit by a tour bus and knocked off my bike.)

I love to run, and my husband loves to sleep in, so when we travel, I try to wake up early and go for a run throughout the city. It's a great way to explore when things are quiet and when the streets are less crowded. I know many cities also offer "running tours", which I would love to take advantage of someday. We're heading to New York City in a few days, and my running shoes are already packed for a jog or two through Central Park!

2.) Talk to the locals.

(The Artessa Winery in Napa Valley)

Locals are a great resource for finding the hidden gems within a city. My friend Joel introduced my husband and I to the most incredible jazz club in Austin. When we were in San Francisco, a restaurant owner went so far as to give us his cell phone number in case we ran into any trouble as we continued on into Napa Valley. He also recommended the most incredible winery, which was off the beaten path. I'm glad we took him up on it, because it turned out to be one of the most beautiful places in the world!

1.) Take lots of pictures!

(Arc de Triomphe, Paris)

And then share them on your blog so we can all live vicariously through you!

These may not be the most revolutionary travel tips in the world, but they've made for some amazing and enjoyable trips. Happy Travels!

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

Thank you Meghan for this amazing guest post! :) Traveling certainly is one of my favorite things - love that you went for this topic!! ♥

I don't have much time to travel now, but I'm sure the second I book a flight again or even go on a quick road trip I'm going to share my thoughts on my adventures with you all. Promised!

Thanks again lady!!! :)

And yes my readers...if you haven't checked out Meghan's blog you're missing out big time!!

720 Years

2011-08-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

Although I am not over there in my home country, don't think I am ignoring the fact that it actually is turning 720 years today. Yes, August 1 is the "our 4th of July" and yes it is obviously today. Normally I'd spend it with friends, drinking some wine or beer (ha, there I said it), eat a ton of meat, salad, and whatnot. This year? No idea. I'm just posting this now and then I'll see where it leads to...

So, happy Birthday Switzerland.
You are one small old lady!!

via

For all of you who didn't know how the Swiss flag looked like, here we go!! Just look at the picture!! It is red and has a white cross in the middle. Not to confuse it with the red cross, okay?!!!? To top it all, the size of the actual flag or its dimensions are different to other flags. :D

So yes, happy August 1st!!
I already miss being there!!!

♥ Selma

Guess again...

2011-07-30T18:37:00.000-07:00

Any idea on where I'm headed to?!

Let's just say it's going to be a change, a lot of work, a lot of organizing and getting used to, but also fun with dear friends (old and new). Am I ready? Probably. It doesn't look like it and I don't feel like it though but it is going to be alright!

As you are reading this I am on a plane towards some hopefully amazing and exciting months ahead of me. Yes, months...and not just days or weeks. I am both thrilled and very scared. It is part of life I know that. We have all been in this situation and I believe there will be more times to come that will bring both emotions back and make me feel the way I'm feeling at this very moment. And yes, I am sure while you're reading this you may wonder and ask yourself where is Selma going? What is she hiding from us? Trust me. I'll let you know sooner than later. ;)

In the meantime...I know good vibes are sent my way and I appreciate every single one. It means a ton to me. Always has and always will.

As mentioned in an earlier post I will be busy for a few week, and therefore I have a few guest writers on this blog. Already had one of my longest blog buddies post a couple of days ago - love her writing style, her views on pretty much anything, and most importantly her candor. Thank you Sam for helping me out!!
And I know you will welcome my guest bloggers with open arms and enjoy them as much as I do when I read their work. I will try and stop by from time to time until I have things settled.

Moreover, I need a new laptop...big time. I left mine at home, because really it is too old and too heavy and I just need a new one. Not used, but completely new. Wish me luck. And when you see me online you can just imagine and assume that I'm using that new fun item of mine!! Or my iPhone...haha. ;)

Have a fabulous day!!!

a picture a day

2011-07-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

hey everyone!

I'm Sam from A Careless Man's Careful Daughter, and I'm filling in for Selma today!

I'm not too good at guest-blogging (or regular blogging, come to think of it :p), so I thought I'd just tell you all a little about myself & my blog -- including two giveaways I'm hosting, ending soon!

I'm 22 (a few days in!), and lallygagging my way to becoming a nurse. It's my ultimate goal to be a Life Star flight nurse, but that one is way up there (ha, literally), and it's one that, if I don't ever get there, I won't be too disappointed in myself. So far though, I've completed a medical assistant course (11 months of accelerated classes), and am now easing my way into the job hunting process. In a few months, I plan to start EMT courses, and then hopefully by next spring start some nursing pre-req courses... fingers crossed all goes as planned! And when I say that, I mean, I'm desperately hoping my motivation doesn't abandon me halfway through.. hehe.

I'm really into anything outdoorsy, hiking, kayaking, swimming, the beach... love it all. Another big passion of mine is photography, which inspired a little project I decided to start on my 22nd birthday, earlier this week.

I love pictures & memories, and as cheesy as it sounds, I hope one day to be a stay at home mom with a bunch of kids and a house full of photos of our life. Again, cheesefest, I know. But even now, childless & single, I love to preserve every possible memory I can -- with the help of my camera, or even my camera phone.

And so, a couple days before my birthday, I decided I was going to try to tackle a "Project 365", by posting a picture a day, for the next 365 days. I'm going to be honest, that's a pretty steep feat for me. The picture-taking won't be the problem, since I'm constantly whipping my phone out to take a picture of something ... But my lazy posting habits might be a bit of an issue, hehe. To make it a little more "fresh" and sort of separate from my personal blog, I started a tumblr account, special for this project. I'm 4 days in (haven't posted day 4 yet) & going strong! Hehe. So if you're interested in pictures or 365 projects, or in anything I've said, I invite you all to check out my Twenty-Two in 365 tumblr, and my day-to-day, regular blog, A Careless Man's Careful Daughter.

^^ day 3 ^^

Even if you're not sold on the writer (that's okay, I don't even find my stuff read-worthy half the time, hehe), definitely stop by before tomorrow (ending date) for a UPrinting.com giveaway I'm hosting for a set of 100 custom-designed post cards -- winner's design! And then I have my $15 coffee gift card giveaway that ends on Sunday 7/31, winner's choice of either Dunkin' Donuts or Starbucks!

Thanks for reading, and hope to see you there!

And also a huge thank you to my long-time blog buddy Selma for giving me a chance to say a few words at her awesome blog! Big shoes to fill! :)

Man Candy is needed!!!

2011-07-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Although I don't feel like it, I decided to join Man Candy Monday today...it's an uplifting thing to put some eye candy on here and to make my rather sad blog (at least right now) bright and fun again. At least it brought a smile to my face...awwwww.... ;)

Enjoy!
I know I will!!

all images via google

Joe Manganiello.
I have to say, I'm not fan of his character on True Blood, and sometimes I want to shave his face, too, but I always liked him. ;) Enough said.

Have a fantastic Monday!
I'm going to enjoy some music today...at the Blue Balls. ;) A must for everyone living here!
Even though Europe is in shock, some fun is always needed! Always!!

Weekend Thoughts

2011-07-24T05:54:00.000-07:00

My lovely readers,
Where should I begin?
I have hardly no words to describe this weekend.

My weekend started Thursday, and pretty much ends today, Sunday.

Thursday was great. I had a fun time with my friend and her kids. I even realized my future changes are happening for real. I mean, I talked about it, and I've briefly written about it, but then I received something in the mail and I knew that the changes I talked and wrote about are happening and that I'm going to have a whole year full of adventures. Good ones I'm sure. It's just tough to see my friends right now, talk and laugh and then eventually cry. See-you's have become really really tough...

...and then Friday happened.
Friday was both, all bright, glittery and fun and then baaaam...not so fun anymore.
It's not the mood swings (hello?! I'm not that old!! Yet!), it's tragedies that kill the fun, and kill the sunshine in our lives. I used the word kill, because yes, it's what happened on Friday. Not here, but close enough for me to be speechless, wordless, in shock and in pure disgust. This happens when people decide to ruin lives, end lives and still think it's fantastic what they did. I have no words whatsoever for what happened in Norway. I simply have no words, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this cruel tragedy, this act of violence against humankind.
Really I have no words.

...and then Saturday and Sunday happened, and Sunday is still happening.

Not only is it cold, rainy, windy and just very November like in July, it also is sad. Not just the constant news and updates (and I literally turned off the TV at some point!), but also the constant see-you's I had to go through. Over and over again. It made me appreciate life more, enjoy the bad days and moments we all know exist, and it all made me love every single moment I feel pain, and angst to lose someone or something. It's part of life. Holding my friend's baby was the best thing ever this weekend. It made me smile. It made me even sing, and swing, and talk funny but it was one of the best things ever. I even stopped her from crying. She's got her whole life ahead of her. She's such a sweet and precious little one. And, I'm gonna miss her. She'll be walking by the time I see her next time. I know that much. It already breaks my heart.

However, life is still beautiful.
Life is what we all should enjoy. Every moment, even when we feel pain and feel like everything is going against us. Life is still happening. And it should be cherished.

So my lovely readers...

...I hope your weekend is less tragic, less sad, and a lot warmer. I'm seriously considering taking out my gloves. My scarf is my best friend these days...never thought I'd say this in July. :(

And, as I briefly mentioned it, yes, changes are happening.
I'm going to be moving.
And this my readers will not happen in two months from now, but pretty much in six days! 6!!!!
I'll be pretty busy and emotional, and overwhelmed for the next few weeks but it's going to be alright. I know that much. It always will.
Your good vibes were needed and I received them in all their strength and thank you, for thinking of me. :) It worked!

What does this mean now?
Am I going to be away for a long time?
Don't worry. I'm still going to be around, going to be blogging. Though in the meantime and until I get my regular schedule settled and all I have a few amazing guest bloggers helping me out while I'm busy changing my life. And I will still find time to check in on all of you and read your blogs, and even write a post on my own for a change. I have no idea how often but I know the second I buy a new laptop (yes, right I'm gonna buy a new one!! Any suggestions?!!) and things are slowly settled and all I'll be back in full force! :) With new adventures, new exciting and maybe funny stories...it's going to be all fine!!!

So stay tuned!!!

Happy weekend everyone!!!

xoxo,
Selma

Protect it!

2011-07-21T11:10:00.005-07:00

As summer's pretty much in full bloom, with its hot temps and sunny days I'm sure we all are loving every single minute we get to spend outside. I know I am. Though we usually forget one thing namely to protect our skin. This won't be a "do this or that" post, but please people...when you go out and I know you are, do not forget to apply sunscreen. Even if it is a gloomy overcast day and you think the sun's not out or hardly out. The sun's always out even when you don't see her shining onto leaves or you for that matter. And sunscreen has to be applied more than just once a day. We easily forget that. And we easily think once a day is enough but it isn't.

Now you wonder why I'm writing about such a topic. It's simple. Or not. Depends on how you look at it.

A while ago I joined Danielle and Alison's site Sun Savvy, and I would love for you to go over there and read and join the pledge, too, and even if you don't do it think about what you do to your largest and biggest organ. Our skin's so fragile, and we really do neglect it. I have to admit I'm not a hero when it comes to protecting my skin. I learned my lessons, and I learned them well.

Think about it...

...how often do you apply sunscreen? Once? Twice? Sometimes?
...do you carry a little sunscreen tube in your purse? Or at least lotion with SPF?
...how often do you apply lotion to your skin? After you took that shower? Never?
...do you apply regular moisturizing lotion also at night?
...how about your hands? Hand lotion handy in your purse or not?
...or how about your feet?! Pretty nails need some pretty feet too, no?
...and how do you protect your lips? Yes, right, lips. Just a funky, glittery lip gloss? Or a lip balm with SPF?
...what about your precious hair? Wash it, dry it, style it? Any protection there? No?! Whoops!!!

You see, there's plenty you can do.
I'm not saying you should do it all, but think about it.
How often to you apply lotion, and sunscreen? Lip balm?
Crusty lips and yes I call it crusty are gross. I think I said enough. ;)

I take a shower in the morning and got into the habit of putting lotion on. Daily. I make sure it is a moisturizing lotion perfect for my own skin. I have pretty dry skin during winter and oilier but still dry skin in summer so different lotions are needed. Plus of course the sunscreen. And I use different kinds for my face and neck, too, rather than for my body. Our face and neck are more sensitive and therefore need stronger protection. Ever had sunburn on your ears?! Good for you. Once I did, and never again. We forget that area, too.

And our hair (with or without a hat) needs some protection, too. When we go for a swim in the lake or just take our hat off, our hair is exposed to lots of sunlight and lots of bad stuff in general (we all know our air is not a healthy thing, nowhere!!)...so, try to find ways to pamper your hair, too. There are especially designed sunscreen hairsprays or shampoos that do help, too, and make your hair look more shiny than dull and yellow-green looking. Or you can go for homemade hair lotions and such. Whatever works, but don't forget to include your hair, it's literally screaming for our help.

These are just a few of my favorites. I am by no means an expert but I try different lotions (even baby sunscreen sometimes!) to see what works best for me. More expensive doesn't automatically mean better, however, I learned that you still need to go with medium-priced products to get good results. I am satisfied with a lotion that not only nourishes my skin, but leaves it oil free (I hate when my skin feels sticky!), and smooth. And when I don't walk around like a red lobster I am even more satisfied.

Sometimes you have to learn from mistakes. Sometimes you don't learn at all. About almost one month ago I got a terrible sunburn and it freaked me out. Did I protect myself and put sunscreen on? Yes I did. I even stayed in the shade, and still I got burned badly. And this is not something to be taken lightly. This can happen to you as well. Sometimes even worse.
I just learned that an old family friend of ours passed away. She's been wrestling with skin cancer for years, and to me she seemed "healed" and okay. I was wondering actually where she was, because I hadn't seen her in a long time. She would usually walk her dog in my area, and I would see her and stop and talk. She knew my grandma pretty well, and even though we somehow lost touch she was a great person and I always loved seeing her. Seeing her obituary the other day shocked me. Now, my question is answered. She just turned 60 and that my readers is not old. It's super young!!!

Some stories are pure eye openers, and sometimes it is more than just necessary to spread the word.

Think about what we do to our skin. I am not saying you should stay away from the sun and be pale all year round. I am not saying you should go out and sit in the sun forever and walk home like a little lobster. I didn't even sit in the sun when I got my sunburn and it raised a huge question mark around my summer behavior. Stay alert and don't ignore this very fact that this can also happen to you. Have your skin checked if you want, or not. Totally up to you. Really.

I'm telling you, a writer's block doesn't exist. ;) All this writing just because I pledged.
I hope I haven't scared you by having posted this, but still...I felt it was necessary to be reminded again. We tend to easily forget or ignore, and I am saying this because this also includes me. Of course.

Have a safe summer my readers, and a terrific day!

I have an obsession...

2011-07-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

...and it is clearly known as pinning! Yes, pinning. Don't know what I'm talking about here?! Most of you know that Pinterest is a new site and made most of us addicted, and once you join the fun you know why. I've joined a while back and oh my...if I'm truly bored or just need picture inspiration I stay on the site for ~~way too long than I actually should~~ a short while and find tranquility again. Okay, super corny but still. I am obsessed, addicted...you name it. :)

Therefore, I decided to join Michelle again on her Wednesday series called Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday...with my most recent and very random pins reflecting my most current thoughts, feelings, and actions! I think I said enough, no?! Yes.

All pictures are via my Pinterest! :) You are more than welcome to follow me, or ask for an invite!
Just be warned, this site can be extremely addictive!! :)

And while you're at it, my guest post is up on my friend's blog...say hi to her! And yes, thank you girl for letting me write on your precious blog! ;) Hope I didn't disappoint.

Happy Wednesday!

Semi-Wordless Monday

2011-07-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

So my lovelies...
...no hot guy today. No.
I know I am sad, too! Soon again though, I'm sure! :)

How was everyone's weekend?!
Mine? Thank you for asking. It was okay. I did indeed some productive things, and even saw an old friend of mine and chatted for four hours sitting on the same chair and then realizing we totally lost track of time. This is actually a good thing, no?! We even people-watched which can be weird and shocking I have to admit. Oh and I feel bad for all those tourists here in the city. It's been cooler now, add some unexpected heavy rainstorms and well...tourists thinking it is always and anywhere 85 degrees in July. Unfortunately, it is not. We barely have 60 degrees now, and it's just wet. Luckily today (at least so far) it did not rain. Looking outside though...I'm assuming it's gonna hit us hard tonight, in like maybe three hours?! Grrrrr....

So yeah, Monday of crazy week #2 has started, and again, thank you for all your positive vibes, thoughts and prayers. I think it is working. Let's keep 'em coming! ;) Thanks!!!

I wanted to keep this short and simple...so here are a few things that simply inspire me today!!! After all I wanted it to be a semi-wordless Monday post...I clearly suck at this.
Have fun!!!

Rain go away!!!!

It is July and I think I am not the only one here saying she wants to have some summer fun by seeing the sun and having dry days during these summer months?! Please?! Rain, you can come as strong as you'd like between 11pm and 5am. Thank you!!!

Happy Monday!

My Thoughts #2 and Pictures!!!

2011-07-16T03:48:00.000-07:00

Horrible title I know, sorry, but I just couldn't come up with anything more appropriate! ;)

Thank you for all those sweet comments I received for my last post. Truly meant a lot to me. Believe me or not I always thought my life would look very different today than it actually is. I am not saying my life is bad at the moment, but it is certainly not the way I thought it should and would be. I am still young, and still have time for so many things out there but at a certain age your clock is ticking and you look at things differently and you evaluate things more and think twice if not four to six times before you actually push a button that may or may not open up a new chapter in your life. It is a mixture of everything, a constant roller coaster, and I also believe without those occasional downs and question marks in life, life would certainly be very boring. Yes, I am not 22 anymore, nor 24, nor 27! I still feel 25 and I think that is wonderful. I look at my friends my age and see most of them unattached, having no children and floating somewhere with me...makes me feel less of a lonely dork. Seriously, knowing my best friend had her baby boy at 23, got married at 25 and is now a wonderful mother to three awesome kids, happily married, and having a life I always dreamed of makes me sad at times. Sure, not having all of this gives me chances my friend doesn't have. I can travel, not have to worry about my other half, or the kids or money. I can still be selfish. Just a little. Then again, her life looks more fulfilled than mine does at the moment. Really, I am floating somewhere and still worry, and wonder.

Anyways, you all know that some big change will happen in my life and I haven't fully talked about it. Unfortunately, right now I cannot share it either but know it is going to be interesting in the next few weeks, and heck even months around here, so stay tuned. In the next two weeks I'll be going through some major changes, good ones I assume (let's assume so, really!!) and I know that these changes can be both, positive and negative. I am going to try and I am going to see where this leads me to. Emotional times are ahead, but don't worry I am trying to keep it all to myself, and make you less worried. :)

In the meantime, and since I still feel sane today...here are a few pictures I want to share with you because well, I just feel like it. Besides, as it looks like I am leaving and I am not going to see all of this for a while. I already apologize for the bad picture quality...however, I took it with my phone and it is no smart phone...so yeah...bad quality but good enough to create history! ;)

And yeah the bear(s) I was talking about earlier this week!! :) You can hardly see him or her (totally forgot which one!), and my zoom on my camera is very bad but hey, I took pictures and that is what counts!!

And some bubbly is always needed!!! Life is too beautiful and precious!!!
Ignore the lipgloss thingy on the glass (I know you're gonna see it and if not look for it now!).

Dang, I'm gonna miss all of this. More than you can imagine. But I remind myself that change is good and change is needed...and yes, good and different times are ahead of me. It is all going to be fine!!!

Happy weekend everyone!!!

My Thoughts

2011-07-14T01:22:00.000-07:00

Thank you for thinking of me, and sending me positive vibes.
They are still needed for the next few days though.

Life has kept me busy for the past few days and it is not over.
I will have major changes going on in my life and I will tell you once I can share more. Right now it is not definite and although I have mixed feelings I know I am doing the right thing by going for what I wanted in the first place.

I am trying.

If I don't try I will never know, right?

The picture above pretty much describes me. Sitting on the floor, exhausted, alone.
As I am typing this I have 5682 things on my mind that I need to take care of before those big changes happen. Am I excited? Yes, and No. You know, taking this step is one thing, going through with it is another. Right now I doubt my decision. Yes I do. Some of you know what I am going for and where I am headed and this may surprise you. But yes, I am doubting my decision. Not just today, for a while. However, I know me, I know that I always doubt first and then realize that it is not that bad.

It will be part of my life. Something to look back on when I am older.

Something to share while going through this journey.
It is already part of my life.

Believe me, I didn't want to go to Como either, and then I was the one who booked the trip and wanted to go because really...if I don't try and see what's out there I will never know how I feel about it, if I like it, hate it, or just wish to do something else.

Right now I am swimming in an emotional sea. It will be okay. It will be fine. I will not be alone, and who knows what the future brings...we certainly don't. We never do.

So, with that said...I am done for today.
Sometimes bad days need to happen, no????

BUT, even when I am down I still find time or make time to share some guest blog love at my friend's blog while she is having fun in California.

Happy Thursday everyone.
WOW, I can't believe this week is already almost over!!!
Crazy!!!!

Heat, Bears, Ducks and a quick stop in another country!

2011-07-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

Yes people...today was a long day...started at five and is still going on.
Among a ton of other things I saw baby ducks, and four bears, went window shopping, killed a few bugs, spent two full hours on US land, carried one heavy bag with me all day long, drank at least one full gallon if not more (I still need to calculate this), spoke three different languages, had some hot moments (it was 90+ today, and no AC anywhere but on the train), tried to ignore a lady next to me on train (I'm not rude, I just didn't want to talk at seven in the morning), escaped some possible and heavy rain shower, and now I am trying desperately to cook, distract myself and get some very important things settled.

Busy?!
Maybe.
Ok, no YES!!!

I know, this too shall pass!!