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. 

Diving in St. Thomas

I can finally take scuba diving off my bucket list!  My whole family is certified, so it was only fitting that I got scuba certified before my trip to the Caribbean. You wouldn't think it would be difficult, but the process to get your certification was a lot more work than I had anticipated.  With hours of studying, attending classes, 6 hours in a pool, and 2 ocean boat dives, I am officially an open water scuba diver!  Trust me, it was definitely not easy and my traumatic experience underwater left me with one red eye for 6 weeks (I'll spare you the details!)

St. Thomas beauty

After scuba diving in St. Thomas, I realized that it was all completely worth it.  It was my first dive ever, and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect experience. 

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.

Abbot Kinney

Life is simply too short to not enjoy a wonderful meal and a glass of wine with great friends.  Trust me, I absolutely love a great work out, but I realized that you’re not fully living until you allow yourself to fully enjoy an amazing meal, and by this, I mean…not worrying about the calories.  I love finding new restaurants to try, and I especially, love sharing this passion with my friends.

This past week, I had dinner plans with a great friend of mine in Los Angeles.  I love catching up with friends over a delicious meal, and when alcohol is involved, it’s even better!  You are never too busy to spend time with the people you love…remember that :D

Gjelina in Venice is beyond amazing! Ok, but really…it’s so good that I want to go back every night to try the whole menu.  My foodie of a best friend and I both loved everything that we ordered that night.  The ambiance is great for a date or a night out with friends.  The people are attractive. The food is delicious. The music is good. What more can you ask for?  It is easily one of my new favorite restaurants in West LA.

lamb sausage pizza

maitake mushroom toast with creme fraiche & truffle oil

roasted cauliflower with garlic, chili & vinegar

butterscotch pot de creme with salted caramel

XX.

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. 

Baby Shower Fun

I'm going to be an auntie!  Over the weekend, I attended my first baby shower - what's even more exciting was that it was my brother's baby shower.  I'm the only girl of three boys and the thought of shopping and spoiling my new baby nephew is so exciting!

I was looking forward to this for weeks, but soon realized, I didn't have a gift.  With some inspiration and last minute shopping, I was inspired to make a 'Baby Diaper Cake' to help the happy couple welcome a new addition to our family. Baby clothes are seriously the cutest!

the gifts.

of course, you will be handsome!

step 1: roll up all diapers and clothes

TA-DA!

XX.