78 Days of Freedom

It's crazy to think that I'm on a 2 1/2 month adventure traveling through Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina. It feels like it was yesterday when my boyfriend and I made the decision to stop making excuses and to start making plans toward our dream to travel. So here we are, three weeks into our travels and it's been an incredible journey meeting new people from around the world, (re)learning Spanish, and exploring different countries and cities in South America.

The Golden Year

This year, I turned 27 on the 27th - a golden birthday that I was really excited to celebrate! I'll admit that I'm a little obsessive when it comes to birthdays, whether it's for myself, family or friends...I believe that the whole month should be a celebration. You'd think since I'm now approaching my "late 20s," the excitement would die out but I was actually happy to become one year older, wiser, and braver. Birthdays have always been a great time to reflect on the year, and this year was no different for me.

5 Things...

I've recently noticed that I needed a complete spring-cleaning, both in my closet as well as my personal life. Sometimes we get so caught up in our lives and the lives of others that we forget about growing ourselves. Just within these past few months, I have had a bridal shower, a bachelorette party, a wedding, work stress, birthdays and have forgotten about my own personal goals. I know that many of us are constantly dealing with the same distractions, so here is a reminder of 5 things that we can all continuously work on to better our lives!

Leave your Mark

Happy new year, everyone! I hope 2014 has been amazing for you so far :) I am beyond thrilled to take on the new year...and truly challenge myself with new goals and to live out my passions. 2013 was definitely a year of growth for me, and I couldn't be more thankful for all the wonderful memories and experiences that I shared with my friends and family. From my travels to best friends getting engaged and married, there were many highlights from the year that I'll cherish for a lifetime.

Getaway to Catalina Island

It's the Catalina Wine Mixer! It's been years since I've last visited Catalina Island, and to my surprise, I actually loved every bit of it! Catalina Island is one of Southern California's best-kept secret - and the best part: it's just an hour boat ride off the coast from Los Angeles.

7 Days of Happiness

It's really easy to get caught up and often forget what's important in the world. We can all get complacent, take things for granted, and become less motivated through work, fitness or even relationships. Lately, I've been in a little rut, and realized that the easiest way to reach your own happiness is to simply take a moment to breathe and to be thankful. During the week, dedicate some time to creating your own happiness...

Summer Must-Dos

We only have a few weeks left of summer, so why not take full advantage of the warm weather with countless beach trips, girl's night out, and travel often? Summer is absolutely one of my favorite time of the year, where you can enjoy the sun, the beach, and even the summer activities.

5 Things...

Do you sometimes feel like you're traveling through life on autopilot, going through the motions, and having every day pass like the one before it? No matter where you are in your life, try to always remember that everyday is a gift.

The Flower Fields

There's nothing like spending a beautiful afternoon at a flower garden to welcome Spring & Summer. You cannot help but smile from seeing all the flowers, the colors, and all the happy families embracing natural beauty.

A Bridal Tea Party

 

I can finally write about my best friend's bridal shower! One of my favorite hotels in LA is the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena.

Be Mine, Valentine.

Whether it's indulging in chocolate and cupcake heaven (sweets are my weakness) or the thought of beautiful flowers, I've always loved this holiday. But it's important to remember that Valentine's Day isn't just about the gifts and the romantic weekend getaway with that special someone.

Pirates of St. Marteen

Oh, vacation...how I've missed you!  I may still be in denial, but nothing compares to soaking up the sun in the Caribbean with a drink in hand.  Our family vacation ended with one of my favorite days of the trip in St. Marteen.

Learn Something New

Happy New Year, everyone! A new year isn't just about creating new resolutions for yourself, but it's about taking risks, making changes, and having fun while you embark on a new journey. With 2013 being off to a great start, I wanted to do something that I've never done before.  I wanted to learn something new....and try photography.

I've had my camera for years, but actually using it is a different story.  Let's just say, I found it hidden in the back of my closet. This weekend, I decided to take my camera with me and go on an adventure to a local park. 

New Year, New You

2013 is finally here! As we make our list of resolutions and prepare to take on the new year, remember that things can change if you truly want them to. 

Holiday in the Sun

When I first heard that our cruise was going to the Bahamas, I automatically thought of my favorite Olsen twins in their movie, Holiday in the Sun.  I'm really not kidding.  Growing up, I loved and owned all of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's movies, so I was clearly excited to follow in their footsteps.  Just like their characters, I was spending my winter vacation in the Bahamas and exploring the Atlantis Hotel on Paradise Island.

The Atlantis Hotel

Nassau, Bahamas was first on our cruise itinerary.  Due to some late-night partying, we stepped off the ship much later than we had hoped.  I knew right away I was no longer in Sunny California, but stepping into paradise. 

Live. Laugh. Love

the caribbean islands

Just last week, I was exploring the Bahamas, diving in St. Thomas, and swimming in St. Marteen.  My family and I decided to take another trip to the Caribbean, but this time, we were about to embark on the biggest cruise ship in the world, Allure of the Seas!  I think, we can all agree that vacations are absolutely necessary in everyone's life, and I couldn't have been more excited to finally relax, tan, and enjoy the princess treatment on the ship.

Cozy Up!

Now that it's officially Fall, the sun sets earlier and the night gets cooler - cozy nights in are the perfect way to end a long day.  We all have a crazy schedule and a never-ending-to-do list, but sometimes you just need a relaxing night at home to enjoy the fall season. 

Twenty-Four Things...

my beautiful & loving friends.

This past weekend was my 24th birthday CLEbrations!  I am forever thankful to be surrounded by family and friends that love me for who I am and for all the birthday love and wishes.

Write your Life Story

Anyone that knows me...knows how much I love birthdays! I believe that your birthday is a true celebration - it's not something to dread, but rather a time to embrace and reflect back on all of your accomplishments in one year.  With my birthday coming up, I realized more and more that life is what you make of it.

onto another amazing birthday & year with my favorite ladies <3

When writing your life's story, don't let someone else hold the pen for you.  You're in complete control, so make choices and set goals that align with your values and dreams. You are the writer of your own life - the way you live each day is another sentence in your story...

Precious Moments

this is just the cutest.

It's unbelievable what can happen and change in one year.  This time last year, I was graduating college, figuring out my life goals, and traveling as often as possible.

Note to Self: Live in the present and enjoy life's precious moments.