Perfect Illustration

January 31st, 2011
Photo #107
Today has been quite the day. It started out on a great food. I had a satisfying and effective workout this morning and headed off to work for a few hours where it wasn't too crazy and I was even able to get my homework done. But come 4 o'clock was when it all started going down hill. I had to run a bunch of errands this afternoon and at my first stop, my vintage Vuarnet sunglasses fell from my jacket and completely broke. I was actually devastated. They were such a fabulous pair of sunglasses, not to mention original classics that aren't made any more. I should have seen it as a sign for what the rest of the evening would hold. I've been in need of a hair cut for a good month now. I just hate cutting my hair because it takes so so long to actually grow. I kid you not it grows at a super snail speed. My hair has finally been starting to feel like it's getting long which is a huge milestone for me. But its been extremely dry and in need of a little snip snip. I made the decision to run the walk-in salon and just get a quick trim. I made it specifically clear that I wanted no more than half an inch taken off to keep it as long as possible. Well about an hour and half later three inches of my hair is now missing and the cut itself is completely butchered. I kid you not. It has to be one of the worst haircuts I have ever received. I was livid because I didn't notice just how terrible it was until I got all the way home. I'm back to square one with an awkward length of hair along with a terrible chop job all around. I cried when I saw how awful it looked. It takes me so long to actually get my hair to grow and right when I was feeling positive about it and wanted to make it a little healthy, buh bye hair. Arg! I'm trying to just let it go and move on because hair does grow back. And I would totally be ok with short hair if it actually look good! But this is not the case. So today's photo is a perfect illustration for how my mood today progressed and ended up. I need to go to sleep now so it can be tomorrow and I can start over.

Xx
-E

Sunday Night TV

January 30, 2011
Photo #106
It's that time of year again for the entertainment industry. Awards season! The Golden Globes kicked it off and tonight is the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Talk about a celebration of all things acting. I really enjoy the award shows. I'm obsessed with TV and movies, watch them all the time. I mean let's be real, I major in television production at college and want to make a career out of this in some way possible. So, despite the jokes from JH about too much TV, I see it as part of my education and potential future job success to keep up with the research and current projects as much as possible. I like being in know on what's current in this world of entertainment and media. Plus it's just so much fun to do that by watching great productions and films. I can only hope to be part of these award shows in a much bigger way in the distant but near future.

Xx
-E

Family Fun

January 29th, 2011
Photo #105
Today has been a lovely Saturday. Despite the early low feelings and thoughts my girls totally picked me up. The afternoon was complete with a gym session, lunch, then lounging around catching up on reality tv with my close know IC family. Then spontaneously we hit up a new Italian place for dinner and enjoyed pizza and pasta. What a perfect college Saturday afternoon. Avoiding work and instead indulging in friend time. This photo definitely captures our happy mood and outstanding love for one another. And tonight the family time continues. My girlfriends and a fun outfit always bring up my spirits. I'm so lucky.

Xx
-E

Throw Back Fashion

January 28th, 2012
Photo #104
The weekend has finally and officially arrived. And it's the first real Friday night of the semester so it's guaranteed to be a good time. The getting ready process for our house is always time consuming. With three fashionistas, why wouldn't it be? This evening was no different and after careful consideration, outfits were chosen and heels were put on. I added a little glitz to my ensemble with this gold vintage bracelet I received as a gift back in high school from the boutique I used to manage. I don't wear it often because it's such a lovely and precious piece but it just made my outfit this even that I couldn't resist. Snow and all, we are heading out for a good night and I'm excited.

Xx
-E

Favorite Things

January 27th, 2011
Photo #103
Elephants are my absolute favorite animal. They are so beautiful, gentle, sacred, and smart as hell. I adore all things elephant. I have a bedazzled elephant on my keys, yes unsaid bedazzled, a glass statue over my tv, photos of elephants in India and many other little jewels with the ginormous creatures. La, my partner sister and roommate, ventured out to the amazing San Diego Zoo over break and all I asked of her was to provide me with a photo of an elephant. Here you have it. It's a gorgeous photo and I was thrilled when I saw it. And also I was a tad jealous she got to see this beauty so up close and personal. One of these days I will do the same and even, hopefully, have a face to trunk encounter. It's a priority on my bucket list.

Xx
-E

You're On Your Own

January 26th, 2011
Photo #102
Happy hump day to all! The first week of classes has been successful productive and of course a reason to celebrate. This lovely and amazing group of IC seniors is the crew I went to Los Angeles with. They are the most talented and adorable group of people that I have the pleasure of calling my friends. Especially my little nugget D. This is a typical occurrence for them and they do it oh so well. Games laughs and good times are constant. Now you may be wondering and/or passing judgment on the fact that this reunion celebration is occurring midweek, but honestly it's the first week of classes with not too much work and this is the last time that drinking out of a red cup during the week will be acceptable. So here's to this great group of people who know how to have a good time and love life while looking absolutely slamming while doing so.

Xx
-E

Something To Live By

January 25th, 2011
Photo #101
The end all be all of my undergraduate education has officially commenced. The first day of classes went pretty well today. Just the same old introductions and what not. I have it extremely simple this semester which I do not hate what so ever. I usually take a full course load, five to six classes adding up to eighteen credits, but this time I'm going out with a bang by only taking four classes and thirteen credits. Love it. Although it was a bit tough getting into the swing of things again. I had to force myself to sit down and start my reading just so I could make myself feel better for starting off on the right foot. So all is is going well and I'm slowly but surely falling back into the motions. And upon my return to Ithaca, I added a few new decor items in my room to add a fresh addition to the start of this semester. This includes some new frames with fresh photos from the past couple months and this little arts and crafts project that illustrates today's photo. Over winter break I came across this quote by one of my favorite writers E.E. Cummings. Quotes, lyrics, and poems are something I just can't get enough of. There is always something written out there that speaks volumes. The creative process behind it all is brilliant. This particular quote, "trust your heart if the seas catch fire live by love though the stars walk backward", is just beautiful. I translate it as always going after what you feel is inside and taking a chance on all that you love and wish to achieve. The first time I read it I was obsessed. I enjoy being creative in all kinds of ways so during my boredom downstate at home I put together this little something something with the quote written on it. I'm an incredibly visual person so I like to see things on a constant basis that I like to live my. With my room surrounded by photos of the ones I love, candles, things from the sea, Buddha, art work, and quotes I couldn't be in a more peaceful and content place.

Xx
-E

Ps: Today is the big twenty-first celebration, which means I have to send all my love out to JH on his birthday. I know for a fact he is taking on Lawrence by storm and celebrating accordingly with his irresistible swagger, and I wouldn't expect a thing less. So here's to you blue eyes. IV.

Airplane Jams

January 24th, 2011
Photo #100
Holy hell one hundred days of blogging! Whoew. Pat on the back for myself there. It doesn't even seem that long ago I began this creative project. I wish there could have been a more epic or significant photo to mark the big 100 but today was a little hectic. I have been traveling and unpacking since 6:30 this morning. You now know much I dislike saying goodbye so my mood today was not of the highest. Then when I finally returned to NY with another three hours of driving ahead of me, finding my suitcase completely broken and open did not help my already down mood. I can't even explain how exhausted I am. And tomorrow is a big day. First day of my final semester. I have three classes a mini course and work straight through the entire day. Talk about hitting the ground running. I managed to get all unpacked and situated but food shopping didn't happen. It was entirely too late I was entirely too tired and it was entirely too much of a hassle to go out and brave the trek to my car to even consider going to Wegmans. When I have rough days, especially ones with lots of traveling, music is my savior. I have a pretty eclectic taste. I listen to almost anything, minus heavy metal scream stuff. This band, Young The Giant, found it's little way onto my iPod via the iTunes free download last week. Their featured single "My Body" is a good upbeat jam with clever lyrics. This song got me through my journey today and allowed me to tap my toes along with a funky beat to bring my spirits up. Even if it was just for three minutes and forty-one seconds, my mind was at ease at one point or another throughout today. Music has an immense power to describe feelings and emotions for any given moment while at the same time being able to turn the direction of those feelings and emotions. I'm an avid supporter of all things original and creative and this tune qualifies. But now I am just so tired I can't even think anymore. Although I think maybe this one hundredth post was a little significant. My winter break officially came to an end and the home stretch of higher education is about to begin on the date of this post. I'd say that is pretty significant. And even though I'm hesitant and down right shaking in my boots for what the next one hundred days have in store, I'm ready and excited to embrace the adventure. Here's to the soundtrack that gets me through it all.

Xx
-E

Early Celebrations

January 23rd, 2011

Photo #99

I'm not sure when this weekend came to a stop but I know that I am not a fan. Tomorrow morning I head back to NY and straight back to Ithaca for the last semester ever to begin. Whoa. And to add to that madness goodbyes suck. Especially when a big birthday is just the day after you have to say them. JH finally turns the big 2-1 after midnight on Tuesday morning. Which I of course won't be able to partake in the monumental festivities. None the less, this weekend was a total blast and we got in some early celebrations throughout the course of the four days. Like last night's dub step dance party with everyone and today's big football game win. Ok well the Jets didn't make it which is heart breaking, but the Packers did. And being in Wisconsin and right near Chicago it was absolutely wild watching the game. To make it all that much better the underdog prevailed and made a lot of mid westerners happy campers. Overall though, the entire trip has been a success. Tons of laughs, love, and good times. Three things I can live off of alone. Alright, maybe I need food as well. Which we had tons of good nosh all weekend too. So as much as leaving moments like today's photo are absolutely damn near impossible, I couldn't have asked for a better trip. And now the birthday boy can continue his celebrations even a few more days. With that smile, the party will last forever. 

Xx

-E

Dub Step

January 22nd, 2011
Photo #98
Fraternity living has taken on a whole new meaning. I've been saturated in this environment for my entire stay in Wisconsin and I can't say I totally hate it. Everyone I have met has been nothing but wonderful and my people watching skills along with sociological observations have gotten some serious work. The music of choice here is this phenomenon known as Dub Step. It's this strange mix of techno and weird lyrical shit. I kid you not that is the only way to explain it. It feels like your tripping while you listen, even when you're stone sober. JH, my handsome man, is an avid supporter of this strange combination of music and could not resist bumping the speakers with it tonight. Since it's insanely cold in these parts, hanging in one persons room with some beverages and music is the thing to do. It's a great way to survive these winters here. And it's enjoyable. Which reminds me, I need to quit this blog post so I can stop being the weird girl visiting from New York on her phone in the corner.

Xx
-E

Wisconsin Ways

January 21st, 2011
Photo #97
My lovely trip has started off on a passionate and fabulous foot. Wisconsin may be ridiculously cold, negative 12 to be exact, but I am having a blast. Everyone here is so welcoming and nice. Lots of good convos and beverage sharing has occurred only making it all that much better. Tonight's festivities began with some local Wisconsin wine and cheese. Now we all know my obsession with great food and even greater company so needless to say I am one happy girl. The wine and cheese were to die for. Like nothing I have ever enjoyed. The wine was a raspberry tart and the cheese was aged and soaked in merlot. You may think it sounds a bit off putting, but don't you dare knock it til you try it. It was spectacular and will knock your little socks off. And now, oddly enough, we are waiting on our Thai take out. I was overjoyed when we decided to order from Taste Of Thai because that is the same name of the place me and my darling housemates frequent in Ithaca. Overall it has been a great first full day in America's dairyland. Keep it coming WI, I could get used to this.




Xx
-E

The Joys Of Flying

January 20th, 2011
Photo #96
I fly a lot. Especially in the last year. Southwest is what I roll with all the time. I am a Rapid Rewards Member and get points for every flight that turns into free ones. So today I made a journey to Milwaukee to visit the person in my life who taught me how to drink like a Russian. It was an entire day of traveling. No fun. But I was able to pass the time on both planes with sleeping and reading. Southwest has their own magazine in every seat back pocket to entertain their passengers. I was thumbing through this month's issue and came across this How To spread. This particular one teaches one how to fold a dollar into the shape of a scallop shell. How random right? Thank goodness I wasn't on the plane long enough to actually try this origami situation. Luckily I made it to my mid west destination with no hassles or problems. Now I have a long weekend ahead of myself with new friends, frat brothers, and celebrations. Hello Wisconsin, I'm ready for you!

Xx
-E

Dancing Machine

January 19th, 2011
Photo #95
I love this photo. That's all there is to it. It's creative, interesting, and above all original. My sister from another mister passed this along to me. If you're an avid follower, which I would hope nothing but, you'd remember my little getaway to NYC back before the holidays. And if you're not up to speed, hakuna matata I appreciate any readers. Any who, when we were in the city last month I was introduced to a type of therapeutic dance practice. It's known as 5Rhythms. Google it. It's pretty incredible. All different types of music from around the world are blasted through the speakers of a studio and for two hours, sometimes more, you literally just let your body move to the music. There is no choreography and no set steps or moves. You just do whatever you feel fits best with what your feeling or the music. It was one of the most unique things I've done. In it's own way it is liberating and meditative. This photo came via text message and it was the message of a weekend long workshop dedicated to 5Rhythm. Their motto is pretty to the point. Just shut up and dance. There is no need to ask questions or wonder if what you are doing is correct. Feel the music and move your body and that is all. Even if it isn't this type of practice, those who enjoy any kind of dancing know how freeing it is. You can get lost in the music and worry about nothing. Your mind is quieted by the music and the beat. We find a place to get lost in and in turn, dance like no one is watching.

Xx
-E

When The Lights Go Out

January 18th, 2011
Photo #94
Today was a textbook January winter day in upstate New York. It snowed a good couple inches this morning, offering all the kiddies a snow day, and then Mother Nature turned the winter wonderland into a digesting mess of ice and rain for the remainder of the day. I didn't even attempt to venture out of my house, let alone my bed, today. I stayed all cozy watching movies and catching up on missed TV episodes. I finished my fourth book for winter break yesterday and just wanted a day to veg out. The weather was so horrendous so it was perfect. But of course, with treacherous weather conditions comes the loss of power. Which is exactly what happened about twenty minutes ago. This is what we get for living in the woods with barely any neighbors. I was contently watching some Travel Channel shows via Netflicks, my absolute favorite lazy day past time, when boom the power went out. Any normal person would obviously still be able to continue watching on their laptop, but oh no not this girl. My Mac's battery hates me and it's own life. I already had to replace the charger itself when that decided to completely split it's wires and I had to pay for it full price. My Apple Care warranty expired this summer, unbeknownst to moi, so there was no way was I was going to drop over $150 on a new battery after having to replace the charger with my own cash flow. Which brings me here... blogging via my iPhone, which needs to be shut off soon due to that battery slowly losing life and not being able to charge, from my bed in my room that is currently surrounded in candles. I love lighting a ton of candles even when the power isn't out. There is something out candle light that just softens the entire room and atmosphere. I would love to be enjoying this romantic setting someone. Sigh. But instead I reach for book number five in the past four weeks and continue my relaxing evening hoping the power returns. My lazy streak and winter break, finally, comes to an end Thursday where I am off on a little adventure to the mid west before going straight back to Ithaca for the start of the final semester. But until then, I'll just enjoy my candlelit room.

Xx
-E

Mountain Lady

January 17th, 2011
Photo #93
I was raised on the mountain. When I was two years old my Momma put me on a pair of skis and schlepped me and my brothers up to the mountain every single weekend. I loved it from the start. Then when I was 11, I crossed over to the dark side of snowboarding. I loved that even more. I'm not your typically snowboarder though. I don't enjoy spending the entire day in the park hitting jumps and riding rails. I am infatuated with wide open trails, fresh snow, and most of all speed. I started racing at around 12 and I just loved it. Going fast and carving quickly sends an incredible rush through my body. I kept up riding and racing all through high school, hanging with mostly boys every weekend and, shh don't tell them, smoking their assses down every trail. I'll give it to them, they can freestyle in the pipe or off the big airs like no body's business, but when it comes to speed, I don't mess around. Once I went off to college it became much more difficult to snowboard all the time. Luckily it's something you just don't forget how to do so when I get the chance to go a few times it's like I never came off the trail. Today it was like were all little kids again. In came my Momma at 7am turning on all the lights and telling us to get up and hit the road. We made it up to the mountain by 8:30 and got the first lift up to the top. As soon as I hit the snow and started to shred I forgot how much I missed it. Not to mention, it was the absolute perfect day today. Yes, a little bit on the cold and brisk side, but not a cloud was in the sky and the sun was shinning on every trail. It was like nothing else being out there in the fresh air and on some fresh snow. Beating my brothers down the mountain wasn't too bad either. I've been so lucky to have had the privilege to be raised and grow up doing such an awesome outdoor adventure and activity every winter. Needless to say, my Momma was so overly-excited that all her "chicketies" as she so lovingly called us were together and enjoying the mountain together that she took an individual photo of each of us. Mine was obviously the coolest, duh. All seriousness though, today was a near-perfect day. Almost made me fall in love with winter a little bit more than summer, I said almost.



Xx
-E

Hold My Hand

January 16th, 2011
Photo #92
The birthday celebrations that occurred last night were more than a success. There was dancing, laughing, singing and everything in between. Most of the time those were all occurring at once. Sometimes even while standing on a chair or table. Such a blast. And today marks the actual 22nd birthday of my dear Lou, so all my love goes out to her on her special day today. This morning, some what of an aftermath, was a bit of a challenge for some of us. My two lovelies pictured here had quite the struggle getting down the snowy and icy driveway this morning. Mainly the blonde couldn't handle it. And being the great friends we are one went up to give a hand and help while the other, take a guess who, captured the ridiculous yet touching moment on camera. It was a pretty great way to start the morning if you ask me. A little cold fresh air coupled with some sunshine and difficult terrane is always a positive and strong start to a classic mooring after. Not to mention just how adorable this picture is.

Xx
-E

Twenty Two

January 15th, 2011
Photo #91
I talk at serious length about my amazing friends from home who I've spent many a wonderful years with. Tonight is no different and it's cause for celebration because it's my dark haired dark skinned beauty's 22nd birthday at midnight. It is going to be a big old blast and we have just started the process of finishing touches before hitting the club. It's so perfect to be celebrating yet another one of our birthdays together. I can only hope for many many more nights and celebrations like these. And as the Black Eyed Peas once said, tonights gonna be a good night.

Xx
-E

Foam And The Latte

January 14th, 2011
Photo #90
I've never been a straight coffee drinker. It's a bit too strong for me. But lattes, soy lattes to be exact, are my jam. Espresso is delicious and with some steamed soy milk you've got yourself an amazing indulgence. The local coffee shop in my town is always my go to for a latte, sometimes even a chai soy with a shot of espresso. But it's a bit difficult to get one after hours, let along keep dropping cash money on one all the time. Fortunately my parents are European and take coffee, particularly espresso, rather seriously. Hence our very own espresso machine that lives in our kitchen. Now I never figured out how to use the contraption, nor did the rents ever let me touch in fear that I might break the pricy thing. Luckily for me, I got a little lesson on how to use it this summer and life has never been better. I can make my very own soy lattes whenever I please and I don't spend a dime or have to drive anywhere. Spectacular. The art of latte making takes a few go-arounds to get the hang of, clearly it's all about the foam. And all the years I worked in restaurants and had to make lattes for customers I could never get it right. For some reason our machine allows for perfect and delectable foam every time. I am quite the pro. And this evening was no different. As I sit at home relaxing and watching Sex And The City reruns, don't you dare judge my Friday night activities, I had a craving for a latte and created this little jewel. Fabulous foam. I am enjoying every sip.

Xx
-E

Sweat Your Prayers

January 13th, 2011
Photo #89
Today I give you yet another little tid bit of inspiration. This photo arrived in my inbox via email from a lovely friend of mine. We have been emailing back and forth different quotes and photos here and there that offer insight and thought. They are a wonderful pick me up throughout the day and they keep you grounded. She suggested this photo make today's blog. I like to please so viola it becomes the photo for today! It's a small snapshot from the book "Sweat Your Prayers". Which is a wonderful source of logic and enlightenment all in it's own. Start reading from the second paragraph, indicated by the little finger. It's all about the fact of doing. We can say we believe or say we want to do something, but in the end it's all about the strength and courage to actually do it. And getting to that place isn't always easy. Discipline focus and self determination are necessary. Yet when all those combine, words and thoughts can be followed with action, showing true character and spirit.

Xx
-E

Books Galore

January 12th, 2011
Photo #88
I've been reading a whole bunch since I've been home for winter break. I've gotten through three amazing books, Water for Elephants being my favorite. You need to read that book. It is incredible and I highly recommend it. So now I've started my fourth book The Help, as pictured in today's photo. I have heard nothing but wonderful things about this novel and I was really excited to start it. But for some reason I just can't get into it. I've been on a straight movie binge. Usually two or three a day. And it has been increasing my laziness like no other. I've been lacking motivation on all fronts, reading, yoga, running, exercise. I feel in a rut. And my body is just tired. Maybe I maxed out my brain's potential for winter break and now everything else is going down with it. To be honest, I'm ready to get back to school. Although its my final semester of college, which blows my mind every time I say it or think about it, I want to get back into my routine where I don't have so much down time that I don't know what to do with myself. I'm sure I will regret this blog post come a month from now but I'm speaking the truth. I'm ready for some books that I will be forced to get into and I'm ready for a schedule that will get my lazy ass back on track.

Xx
-E

Positive Regard

January 11th, 2011
Photo #87
I would first like to acknowledge today and it being 1.11.11. Not too sure if anything significant has occurred yet but it's still possible. Now for today's photo. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. This one came to me by means of a text message. I have no idea where it was taken but the quote struck me and holds a lot of meaning. I think this picture speaks for itself.

Xx
-E

Let The Music Take You

January 10th, 2011
Photo #86
This photo comes to the blog by means of FB tagging. This mid-80s dance party moment was documented on that trip to NYC I took for the networking event. I thought it was a great shot of me and my Los Angeles other half because it is so quintessentially us. There is nothing abnormal about this photo, we are like this in any setting or occasion when are set free from the house. We were always friends throughout our college years together from being in the same program and taking a few classes together. But it wasn't until we moved out to the City of Angels and shared a double room with a gigantic closet that we formed a true and wonderful friendship. It's a proven fact that when you live with someone you get to know them on a whole different level and it can really make or break or relationship. Some people you just aren't meant to cohabitate with, hence why I have never lived with a significant other of the opposite sex, rather terrifying. Fortunately enough, the six lovely ladies I've have the pleasure of living with throughout college, two of which I still love, adore, and reside with, have been nothing but fun and joyful experiences. The dashing lady in this photo with me stuck by me through the five tough months for me living in LA, and still has my back to this day. We learned so much from each other out on the west coast it was crazy. She was there to pick my ass up off the floor when it got too much for me to handle and I was there to reassure her with always supportive positive thoughts. And let me tell you, when the stars aline and if there's a full moon, do we know how to have a good time. We've gotten ourselves into and out of some sticky situations, but none the less we are always laughing. All the girls I've lived with have endured every aspect of living the pursuit of happiness with me and its moments like this photo that make it all worth while, and something I'll never forget. Sometimes you've just got to allow the music take over and let the good times roll.


Xx
-E

Beauty & Brains

January 9th, 2011
Photo #85
Last night we had a wonderful family party at our house. My Momma and I have been planning it for a while now and it was a total smash hit. The food was absolutely to die for, the drinks were following at a constant rate, and the company was the perfectly sweet icing to top the whole thing off. There were some old great family friends that I grew up with who made it by to enjoy some quality time with us. We all haven't seen each other in so long due to going away to school, changing lives, and growing up all together. So it was really lovely to see everyone and catch up for old times sake. And my two besties even made the trip up to our casa to enjoy in the festivities. These two lovely ladies and I have enjoyed and shared over ten years of friendship. They each have made the blog previously so I couldn't help but make their appearance a little bit more regular. Plus this is a great shot. Not only are my friends beautiful, but they are smart, grounded, and have a balanced head on their shoulders. We always have a blast and always stay real. I recently just finished a book about a group of girl friends who grew up together and even through the years of college and beyond, they stuck true to one another and were there, at the end of the day, no matter what. And I couldn't help but relate the story to my own friendships I have. Sometimes I forget how lucky I am to have such a solid and beautiful group of friends like that in my life. It doesn't matter what choices I make, how many times I make a complete fool of myself, or if I cry a ocean's worth of tears for a silly or even no reason at all, the young women I have the absolute privilege to call my friends will be there without a questioned asked. So this is dedicated to those beautiful and smart women in my life who have stuck by my side and had my back in any circumstance that has been thrown in our direction. You all know who you are, and every day I'm grateful for what our friendships have done for me and for the dynamically wonderful people you are.


Xx
-E

Eye Candy

January 8th, 2011
Photo #84
Today while I was sitting in the eye doctors office waiting on the optometrist I was flipping through a cheesy tabloid mag. My childhood best friend has an absolute and borderline unhealthy obsession with James Franco. When I came across this ad featuring her dream boat I snapped a quick pic for her and sent it via text message. I do have to say, he's rather good looking. I don't mind staring at him. I've also read that he is actually somewhat of a normal person, for being a highly successful actor and celebrity. Mr. Franco has earned his bachelors and masters degrees and is currently working on a PhD from Brown University. Not so bad if you ask me. One of my favorite combinations is beauty and brains, which I'm lucky to have many of those kinds of people close to me in my life. I felt this made the photo blog worthy, and it's a pretty great pic if I do say so myself.

Xx
-E

Winter Wonderland

January 7th, 2011
Photo #83
Yet another blizzard came through the tristate area today. I hauled my butt out of the city pretty early this morning to avoid any havoc that had the potential of being caused due to the snow. I really enjoyed the train ride home. I got to read a whole bunch and look out the window now and again at all the snow falling on the Hudson. And when I slowly made my way down my road I saw a beautiful opportunity for a photo. Plus I just got this new app on my iPhone that has a bunch of filters to change around the composition. It turned out pretty nice if I do say so myself. I mentioned previously that I really do think there is some sort of romance about snow falling. It's delightful and peaceful. Such a place one should share with someone. Once I came home I got all cozy in bed with my book and watched the snow fall once again from the comfort of my home. What a lovely snow day.

Xx
-E

Network Night

January 6th, 2011
Photo #82
Here we are in NYC, once again, but this time for an Ithaca even to network and be somewhat professional. The event itself was not as great as expected but the reunion of all the ICers is fabulous. We hit up a little diner for some nosh before the event which is where this photo came from. Now we are enjoying the hotel party and then exploring what this city can offer us. Yes we came for a professional thing in hopes of a potential job but we are only young and in the city once so we are having at it. I love every bit of this Thursday, uncomfortable business clothes and all.

Xx
-E

Pop It Like It's Hot

January 5th, 2011
Photo #81
Continuing along with my lazy streak, I recruited my girls for a movie night. Complete with rocking our PJs and munching on popcorn. Most of our crew has sadly made their way back to school or other traveling adventures, so the four of us that do remain home spend as much time as possible together. My parents have this nifty little popcorn maker that is just super fun to use. We made two huge ass bowls of popcorn and spiced things up a little bit with our own seasoning combinations. Parmesan cheese. Garlic powder. Salt and pepper. All the works. Oh my goodness was it good. And we did serious damage. Now we are full happy and relaxed on the couch all cozy watching John Tucker Must Die. Quality girl time is exactly what I need right now. Life is pretty good.

Xx
-E

Puppies Make The World Go Round

January 4th, 2011
Photo #80
My amazing cousin called me last minute tonight to get out of the house and hang at The Lodge with some real old friends. It's been an absolutely lovely evening catching up and enjoying some quality company. Our friends boyfriend came by with their new puppy Holly. Oh my god. The cutest thing ever. She looks so much like my pup did when she was nine weeks old that I about died. Holly is literally being passed around from person to person and even walking down the bar. Welcome to Woodstock. But no matter where you are in the world puppies make everything better. And as you can see from this photo they make everyone they come in contact with happy. If only they stayed puppies forever.

Xx
-E

Societal Duties

January 3rd, 2011
Photo #79
To mark the first official business day of the new year, I was summoned for jury duty. Talk about a drag. I had been called a few months back but was living out in LA at the time so I was able to postpone it to my winter break this year. Let me tell you it was damn near impossible to get out of bed this morning. I don't know what the deal is lately but I am just lacking motivation. Maybe it's due to the fact that the last two weeks have been nothing but an exciting whirlwind that just suddenly came to a halt. Whatever the case, I did not want to bring my booty to the court house this morning to serve my civil duties as a registered tax payer. After sitting in the court room for over an hour listening to a few guidelines and role call, we sat there for even longer waiting on the judge to ascend his throne and begin his juror selection. Finally his honor materialized only to tell us our services wouldn't be needed today in court because the criminal trial had been settled. So I guess I lucked out a bit on my first jury summons. And even better, tomorrow we don't have to show up either because there are no trials being held on Tuesday. I'll take it. Another day of relaxing and being lazy. Except this time I really ought to get my butt in gear. I've got an event coming up in NYC and some other fun things planned in the next coming weeks before starting my last semester of college. The way I see it, there isn't much time left to be unmotivated and undetermined. Although it is pretty nice to take it when I can. It's everyone duty to take some time for their selves, is it not?

Xx
-E

Sweet Tooth

January 2nd, 2011
Photo #78
Dessert is my absolute favorite thing in the indulgence department. I almost always can never resist a sweet treat after a meal. I can totally admit I have a sweet tooth. Cupcakes. Fruit crisps. Ice cream. All of it I love. Lately I've been in a baking phase too. Lets be serious though, I go for the box mixes to keep it simple. I'm now make it from scratch baking extraordinaire. But I do add my own twists here and there. Like always baking with soy milk and earth balance butter. It's a bit of a healthier alternative and it offers, I think, a richer and creamier texture. So tonight I had this immense craving for a McFlurry, which mind you it has been over three years since I've had fast food, that I was literally getting desperate to fill. But after deciding that leaving my cozy house to make the drive to spend the money wasn't worth it, I settled on cookies and milk. You can imagine my utter disappointment when I scoured my house to come up unsuccessful. But what I did find was even better. Red velvet cupcake mix, complete with the mix for the deal breaking cream cheese frosting. Oh my was I excited. I got right to and completely enjoyed myself throughout the process. And it was quick and easy. The whole thing only took about a half hour maybe 45 mins. I love presentation so I even added honey cinnamon almonds on top of each cupcake for some pizzazz. But we all know the best part about baking is eating! I couldn't help myself. I dove right into one of the red velvet treats and accompanied it with a nice cold glass of soy milk. Holy hell you are looking at one happy blogger. God it was good. I actually had to restrain myself from going to town on the 11 other delights sitting so lovely in my kitchen. Overall though, I've satisfied my sweet tooth. And the best part, there are plenty more where this came from.

Xx
-E

Bananagram

January 1st, 2011
Photo #77
Well hello there 2011! The new year has officially begun and I do not have any complaints for the start of things. Last nights celebrations were absolutely epic and incredible. I danced my little booty off and rung in the new year with some amazing people who I love dearly, there being one in particular that I was more than overjoyed to be starting this new year with. And the first day of 2011 was pretty swell. I laid in bed for the entire day reading, resting, snuggling, and sleeping. I kid you not when I say all day. I didn't rise from my delectable dwelling of a bed until four in the afternoon. Don't you hate. Once I was up and running I was extremely productive in doing laundry and dishes and working out my booty. You've got to start a brand new year off on the right foot as to set the pace for the rest of year to be healthy and fit. I also believe a new year brings about trying new things. I think that is what I've settled on as my new years resolution, try new things. Along with living in the moment and embracing love. So today I tried something new. Yes staying in bed until the sun practically went down was one of them, but I was also I introduced to the game Bananagram. I went to my best friends house this evening for some killer homemade lasagna and as we were waiting for the food to finish her and her mom taught me this crazy game. It's basically like mini scrabble. There are a bunch of tile letters that you individually choose and you make your own personal board. Then you continue to pick up new tiles here and there until all the tiles are gone. Whoever has used all their letters first to complete their board is the winner. Sounds extremely compacted I know. It was a bit much to handle at first but it's a great exercise for the brain. Plus we had a great time with a little friendly competition before some delicious food. All in all today was a great day. I feel like I'm in a good place as this new year begins. 2010 brought a lot along with it, ups and downs as well as the good and the bad. But I truly can not complain. I have my health my family my friends and love for yet another year. 2011 will pose it's own challenges and winding paths, but I feel ready. I've got a different perspective with new outlooks that can only better me. Each year we learn and experience something new that transcends into all facets of our lives for the next year. And I feel like I've grown to understand myself and everything around me over the past year, making me ready willing and able for every little ounce that 2011 has to offer.

Xx
-E