Give it to Me Baby: H&M Fall Collection

H&M Fall Collection by elbonner featuring short sleeve shirts

Just when I thought I really hated fall, H&M comes out with a fall collection that makes me feel okay about never having any extra money ever again. Pending the upcoming Isabel Marant for h&m collaboration, the Swedish retailer has put forth the cooooooolest collection of Marant-ish pieces for those of us not blessed with a store big enough to get any of the collab pieces. My local stores never get any of the designer collections, so seeing this display in the front of the store made me okay with not having to beat another 20something to death for a pair of boots. Everything is just soo stinkin' cool; like wearing-fancy-sunglasses-sipping-espresso-reading-nietzche-at-an-outdoor-cafe cool. PS, I understand the overuse of the dash! What I'm trying to say is, go out, get yourself some of these pieces, and have some great fall/winter pieces that won't cost you an arm and a leg. Get to shopping fools!

365 Days

What a difference a year makes. One year ago, I had the worst week I've ever had in my entire life. It was the first week I started working full-time at my job, I was freaking out about my lack of money, my 19 year-old childhood cat was put to sleep, and my Nana died all within about eight days of each other. I guess life wanted to make sure I wasn't such a pussy and threw every horrible thing it possibly could at me. Well, I made it. I may be 20 lbs. heavier and still crying by myself in the bathtub every once an awhile, but I am still here. About a year ago I also started writing on this little blog. I figured if I wasn't writing much more than medical notes and stupid office e-mails, then I should have an outlet to keep myself writing as much as I could about whatever I wanted to. I love this thing and all of the people who have reached out and told me that they actually enjoy what I have to say. Some of the people around me think the whole blog thing is silly, but I find it really relaxing and fun to have a place to just talk about the things I like. Even though I'm still convinced I'm the only one who reads this thing, thankyou everyone for taking time out of your day to spend a little time with me!

Even though 2012 royally sucked, I tried to do as much cool stuff as I possibly could this year. I wanted it to be as fun and carefree as possible. I spent lots of time with family, friends, and, my greatest love, THE BEACH. There's something about the ocean that literally washes away the sad and replaces it with sandy, salty fun! Some of the things I did to make up for my crappy 2012 involved:

 I spent a few days in England's Lake District, one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen!

 Did lots of hiking up and down, and up and down lots of sheep-covered mountains

 Spent an amazing few days in Paris with my family

 Went all the way up to the top of the Eiffel Tour (didn't get pick-pocketed!)

 Ate some tasty French treats!

 Went on my dream vacation to Oahu. Almost didn't leave

 Partook in the eating of some tasty local grinds

 Saw my favorite flower almost everywhere!

 Met many wise and peaceful sea turtles

 Saw a volcano. Got stung by a bee on said volcano.

 

 Swam in beautiful clear water on the North Shore at Waimea Bay

Got a little closer to Tahiti at the Polynesian Cultural Center

 Spent some quality time with my mom in the most amazing place I've ever been to.

Busted out the log and spent as much time in the water as possible. I don't think I could survive if I was more than half an hour away!

I have tried as much as I can to make up for the crappy times I had last year. I am so fortunate to have done all of the things I have done and with some of the best people to have ever existed. I still find myself thinking a lot about my Nana and how much I miss her. She was truly my number one fan and never thought I could ever do wrong. I feel pretty silly sometimes after a quick cry in the shower or in the car; like I should be over it already, but it's hard losing one of your best friends. I am glad to have my friends and family that keep me happy and partake in this crazy adventure that is life. I only hope I can make the most of it while I'm still up and running! Carpe Diem, y'all!

always the pink princess

Photo Diary: Bonjour, Paris!

My trip did not stop at hiking the Lake District; we made a journey down to Blackpool fora night (very interesting) and then took the Channel Tunnel to France for a three day dream trip to Paris! I really loved Paris. We stayed in the Batignolles neighborhood which was very French and very cute. Little flower shops, patisseries, and cafes were everywhere with a beautiful park in the center. Because I spoke the language well enough to order things, ask questions, and just made the effort,no one was rude to me or gave me a hard time. I always try to take into account that when in another country you need to adjust to them, not them to you; just make the effort and you will be rewarded! Anywho, beautiful city, amazing food, and the most chilled out atmosphere I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing. So, let's all have a bottle of champagne, a fromage plate and look at some photos!

Fun was had, pastries were eaten, I can't wait to go back. Makes me want a baguette and a glass of wine just thinking about it. Until next time, bon voyage!

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