tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73815335698613680602024-03-12T17:28:04.476-07:00patricia writesPatriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-47370332116501643372015-12-29T16:57:00.002-08:002015-12-29T16:57:34.685-08:00To Fresh Starts.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrqGEAqTlP-Bn5D-lsel9BFjEpMhqFO4or4vnR5HFKgsb9OjG8-CuffW23iJ591L6bd9vsT9Q0QF6l1_e8hNGWHeVt6H0vy-9Pa0siq-0KRUKSBjRq1oteIU7qmcqICvwn7Wbr0R-f0sc/s1600/IMG_7647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrqGEAqTlP-Bn5D-lsel9BFjEpMhqFO4or4vnR5HFKgsb9OjG8-CuffW23iJ591L6bd9vsT9Q0QF6l1_e8hNGWHeVt6H0vy-9Pa0siq-0KRUKSBjRq1oteIU7qmcqICvwn7Wbr0R-f0sc/s320/IMG_7647.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
Another great year is coming to an end. I'm both excited and anxious to start it all over again. To create lasting memories and to forge more meaningful relationships in my life. I would have never guessed I'd be where I am right now. Happily engaged, mentally stimulated by my work, and increasingly wiser to the things that I need and don't need in my life. How am I 26 years old? It feels impossible and yet it is. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
I like to keep my new year's resolutions simple every year. This year is to continue to practice mindfulness in everything I do. I want to surround myself with things and people I love. I want to live simply. Treat myself well and try not to fret about what tomorrow might bring.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<i>Happy New Year. </i></div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-63849760755738035422015-12-28T13:26:00.005-08:002015-12-28T13:26:47.934-08:00Vienna, 2015. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCpYSVaiNeg8CU25h9nYFcKqotbE47dUnGKRimMuWP9GxfO3yrCP4Gzf18SuNwbDD_669LJ7Z6L87-zfWZ4UbB17AwJREnSFyASWOnsxEEYl_Msz0dYoQLxw8oWqiD2gd_h22BnfoYVrO/s1600/Image-1+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCpYSVaiNeg8CU25h9nYFcKqotbE47dUnGKRimMuWP9GxfO3yrCP4Gzf18SuNwbDD_669LJ7Z6L87-zfWZ4UbB17AwJREnSFyASWOnsxEEYl_Msz0dYoQLxw8oWqiD2gd_h22BnfoYVrO/s640/Image-1+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This post is well overdue, but I wanted to document our time spent over Thanksgiving in Vienna, Austria. Vienna was one of the most beautiful towns that I've visited so far during my trips to Europe. I often wonder why it isn't more frequently brought up when people speak of London, Paris and other beautiful major cities.<br />
<br />
We took a short two hour train ride to Vienna from Budapest and quickly checked into our Airbnb. We were fortunate to have fallen into the design neighborhood Neubaugasse, bordering the museum quarters in town.<br />
<br />
Everywhere we went we were surrounded by beautiful facades and well designed alleyways. I have always loved the festiveness of winter time--Vienna is the place to be if you do too. Everything was so beautifully decorated for Christmas. I was smitten by how charming it all was naturally. In the course of 3 days, we were able to visit pretty much all the Christmas markets and get a taste of how it would be like to live as a local in Vienna. I hope to go back someday to visit Halstatt!Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-12124462363751314932015-10-08T23:19:00.000-07:002015-10-08T23:19:17.779-07:00Autumn in Portland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_524335377"></span><span id="goog_524335378"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8DtP91VhuKC8hn0cFS-tsctiVSWXLSA-30DG08f_EPbgxqGPWZL-aUr94WoczDLRDFGFaCZe2mRTnp9Zy26qg23JuLE4uVikvJiSD8_HV5X33H5I0hEE7CPkCs-6PkWUIwXCHLVD6JP_/s1600/IMG_6519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8DtP91VhuKC8hn0cFS-tsctiVSWXLSA-30DG08f_EPbgxqGPWZL-aUr94WoczDLRDFGFaCZe2mRTnp9Zy26qg23JuLE4uVikvJiSD8_HV5X33H5I0hEE7CPkCs-6PkWUIwXCHLVD6JP_/s640/IMG_6519.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Everyone who knows anything about me <i>knows </i>that I am completely obsessed about moving to Portland. Ever since my first visit three years ago, I've slowly built a fantasy in my head of a completely romanticized Portland--where it is autumn all year round. Crisp air, shorter days, <i>seasonality </i>that we just don't get in California where it seems to be summer all year round.<br />
<br />
I was hoping I'd become disillusioned by my third visit, but I am even more deeply entrenched with the idea than I was before. Or perhaps with just the idea of moving somewhere new and starting over again in a new city.<br />
<br />
In any case, we did plenty of hiking on this trip from Forest Park to Mirror Lake after the end of a scenic drive along the Columbia River Gorge. Visiting Oregon has become something of a tradition and one that I hope to keep up in the years to come. Perhaps next year we'll visit and run the Portland Half Marathon. That's certainly something to look forward to. Here's to 26.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-72960785198101763392015-06-08T11:18:00.001-07:002015-06-08T11:18:17.027-07:00Day Trip to Santa Cruz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7-RH3p1li4ZRgfhLynlnLGAD9aA5mBC6LTg_4PofTUfvPx7gfnN5eqLZ8B0kwy9_s0pQ0NOxPdwWUchMlILaLWCmedRoE1TsXaTqViM0VHGQfopTt7zduZWK3bHafqJeDUl4zsrpT-cm/s1600/IMG_5566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7-RH3p1li4ZRgfhLynlnLGAD9aA5mBC6LTg_4PofTUfvPx7gfnN5eqLZ8B0kwy9_s0pQ0NOxPdwWUchMlILaLWCmedRoE1TsXaTqViM0VHGQfopTt7zduZWK3bHafqJeDUl4zsrpT-cm/s640/IMG_5566.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
My goodness, it was the perfect weekend for a hiking trip. A and I decided to rent a car and make the most of our Saturday and drive down to Santa Cruz for the day to go hiking. It ended up being a relatively gloomy afternoon along the coast, but those tend to be just as enjoyable. This shot is from Wilder State Ranch Park. It's just 15 minutes out of town but you feel as if you're a million miles away from city life upon arrival.<br />
<br />
Summer time demands a trip to the coast. It's our seasonal tradition now. There's something very restorative about being outdoors and close to the ocean. It's a great reminder of how small we really are and how our daily stresses which seem so insurmountable and all-consuming Monday through Friday are really just so irrelevant in the grand scheme of things.<br />
<br />
We ended up taking hwy 1 back up to San Francisco after the hike, stopping along the way at Bonny Doon's tasting room for a quick wine tasting. By dinner time, we found ourselves in our old stomping grounds in West Portal and the Inner Sunset for Marnee Thai and boba. It definitely made me miss living in the city. Looking forward to making the most out of these long summer days in the weekends to come!Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-10551701799117317812015-05-29T23:04:00.003-07:002015-05-29T23:04:36.671-07:00Oahu, Memorial Day Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYbQaoh_5hwReC-WPNH8pbogNmFGJ2u8kabATVGm-zSdgl1xMnOcR3-s2P5f2ROSnrCfhXeO5aRo2KbJHbhPPw59a7p1rCkkTPPG4LndRkVnNUTczqqxpTpPca1dOeTVeWX8LkN5pPdNh/s1600/IMG_5375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYbQaoh_5hwReC-WPNH8pbogNmFGJ2u8kabATVGm-zSdgl1xMnOcR3-s2P5f2ROSnrCfhXeO5aRo2KbJHbhPPw59a7p1rCkkTPPG4LndRkVnNUTczqqxpTpPca1dOeTVeWX8LkN5pPdNh/s640/IMG_5375.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A and I visited Hawaii for the first time this past Memorial Day weekend. Oahu has been on my travel destination list for a while now so it was gratifying to be able to visit and kick off the summer in the most wonderful way.<br />
<br />
We took Hawaiian Airlines from San Francisco first thing in the morning on a Thursday and landed a little after noon. After finding the baggage claim we were met by a frantic looking airline employee carrying our leis. Soon after some back and forth, we arrived to the rentals lot and hopped in our rental, lunch and malasada bound.<br />
<br />
My general impression of Hawaiian food is that it's incredibly unhealthy. I felt a little guilty for the amount of meat consumed on this trip, but not to fret. That's what vacation's all about. Soon after finishing up, we took Pali Highway to sleepy Kailua to check into our AIRBNB.<br />
<br />
I liked Kailua a lot. Most people opt to stay in Waikiki where all of the resorts are, but Kailua offered us a slice of what Hawaii should feel like. We pulled into the driveway and were warmly welcomed by our host Beth and her adorable dachsunds and pit bull. One beach entrance to Kailua Beach was literally a 5 minute walk away from the house.<br />
<br />
Greedily, we swapped into our bathing suits and rushed off to the beach. Eager to soak in the last of the afternoon. I'd never seen such clear, blue-green waters before. We had our fill until the rain suddenly arrived, forcing us back to the airbnb.<br />
<br />
We ended up getting ready for Waikiki afterwards and drove into the city to get a drink at House Without A Key--a delightful venue where you can sit outdoors, watching the sunset over Waikiki beach to the lullaby of slack-key guitars. It was blissful. I miss it already.<br />
<br />
Waking up every morning in Hawaii was delightful for the obvious reasons, but the most memorable feeling I take back now is one of nostalgia. Every morning I'd wake up feeling like I did as a teenager on summer vacations. Incredibly well-rested, carefree, smelling slightly of sunblock and summer. I relished that feeling so much on our recent stay in Kailua.<br />
<br />
I'll definitely be back someday and hopefully soon to visit the other islands and do another ATV tour! Teehee.<br />
<br />Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-90363113657537119662015-05-29T22:39:00.001-07:002015-05-29T22:39:07.846-07:00Weekend in Seattle<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccoOYzWxlCF3utXviOT-tEaFt1RqV_O8eWBnT4eH9c4B8YUzfOItFKCDUiU0UpQVbvnjUTsy2W9j2PWx6zEy4suz0nIF6R1SVsgnrjl7quVEyB7GE04VkWmCHMHdZrelJJwj_ApmgKIQ4/s1600/IMG_6102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccoOYzWxlCF3utXviOT-tEaFt1RqV_O8eWBnT4eH9c4B8YUzfOItFKCDUiU0UpQVbvnjUTsy2W9j2PWx6zEy4suz0nIF6R1SVsgnrjl7quVEyB7GE04VkWmCHMHdZrelJJwj_ApmgKIQ4/s1600/IMG_6102.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67NdLNE867uYJc7Ezwhk8ksVfkvHSyP2PxStMxk2kl169L0S2-g7NCaCZEJ8tznRPW1H4EM8XHZd2YNq2PJUirS6RtwNDi779TiPSEsRAiG7dDuUYe01mkTIsCx7zKlFUZDaHAY1RDkXq/s1600/IMG_6275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67NdLNE867uYJc7Ezwhk8ksVfkvHSyP2PxStMxk2kl169L0S2-g7NCaCZEJ8tznRPW1H4EM8XHZd2YNq2PJUirS6RtwNDi779TiPSEsRAiG7dDuUYe01mkTIsCx7zKlFUZDaHAY1RDkXq/s640/IMG_6275.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPpbBD5aMsZVBThAqBLKwShoetZgl8-zh2NtjbXCDil30s2RovagYtKJep1SvQCMHlb0ANkvlsBCBqdu9y0pds_bZssyCPjX5NUIbuJxPwRewipDU3e_567bU4CdY_-9fOoMtf-U1mFcz/s1600/IMG_6080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPpbBD5aMsZVBThAqBLKwShoetZgl8-zh2NtjbXCDil30s2RovagYtKJep1SvQCMHlb0ANkvlsBCBqdu9y0pds_bZssyCPjX5NUIbuJxPwRewipDU3e_567bU4CdY_-9fOoMtf-U1mFcz/s640/IMG_6080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With a woeful delay, I've decided to finally update my blog/travelogue. I traveled to Seattle recently for a short stay with A. This was my second time in Seattle, and I still maintain that this is a city for those who like to eat. I am still vehemently pro-Portland when it comes down to which city is a better vacation destination.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We stayed in the Warwick Hotel in lieu of airbnb this time. An excellent decision give the hotels central location and close proximity to the delicious Palace Kitchen, Top Pot Donuts and more. Not to mention, Pike Place is a quick 15 minute walk away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We hit up some of the usual suspects during this visit: Pike Place Market, Olympic Sculpture Park, The Space Needle, and more. This time I visited the Ballard Neighborhood, which to my delight, was chock-full of fabulous little shops full of housewares, jewelry, and more. We spent an entire afternoon there where I discovered Prism--a boutique that boasted of tons of hipster-ware. Think macrame wall hangings, geometric-inspired jewelry, overpriced pieces of pottery and so on. I laughed a little at how it all was a little <i>much </i>but quickly reigned myself in when I found a wonderful necklace by Baleen in stock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We moved on to the Ballard Locks where you can see the salmon swimming upstream in the summer and concluded the afternoon at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Best oysters I've had in a long time. Arrive early.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I'd like to return someday to Seattle, I don't think I will deliberately plan a vacation for a long time now. Perhaps Portland in the Fall again...There's nothing quite like sitting on the PSU campus people watching, farmer's market in the background, and watching the gold, brown, and yellow leaves flutter about. </div>
</div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-3030387377008065992014-12-02T12:11:00.001-08:002014-12-02T12:11:50.320-08:00Thanksgiving 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GKBgCSSI2P1WkY31rXqyWJnmjlw4sDae7Y6-JWlYkDNYKO30WwU5_q-Mb2-dcSTKXLmz4LexxVsNHOHblT862VaQVpj2biT8Ml3I7U604hTp0ncGm_IzmtOynzhFhmn51opNm0GyICmu/s1600/IMG_5170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GKBgCSSI2P1WkY31rXqyWJnmjlw4sDae7Y6-JWlYkDNYKO30WwU5_q-Mb2-dcSTKXLmz4LexxVsNHOHblT862VaQVpj2biT8Ml3I7U604hTp0ncGm_IzmtOynzhFhmn51opNm0GyICmu/s1600/IMG_5170.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div>
Ah Thanksgiving. I thought I would never make it in one piece this year after several bouts of nasty colds and running related injuries. I flew home to Orange County this year and was able to finally spend some time with my family. Per tradition, the night before Thanksgiving was spent reveling at Stubrik's in Downtown Fullerton to support my oldest brother's cover band, Hot Panda. They get better and better every year! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
No one seems to care to push Thanksgiving early as a holiday like they do with Halloween and Christmas, so I find myself appreciating this particular occasion more as I get older. I love spending time with friends and family without feeling the pressure of having to worry about gifts and decorations what not. Let's just say Thanksgiving is giving Christmas a run for its money in my heart.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My dad made another amazing turkey and all the fixings as usual. I contributed some pie and cava. After feasting, I hit some sales with my siblings. Black Friday didn't seem as big of a deal this year, though I must admit that I am no longer young enough to be out past 2 AM. Ah, fleeting youth. All in all, a wonderful trip back home. </div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-61780215537430277492014-09-02T22:55:00.002-07:002014-09-02T22:55:33.918-07:00Tomales Point<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsup56FNXihbRCwl-ptl9s9N1U3UUEelL-nlkiSbbiRRf5O8oVKWgVLRZ0WggdP8utPuaMca6cwifuIFLLsSJCQcevlcAeFrh5uB2vh_f21xL-4oUl_DnIAK7f3TBYlnXHrByioVQahcQD/s1600/IMG_4693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsup56FNXihbRCwl-ptl9s9N1U3UUEelL-nlkiSbbiRRf5O8oVKWgVLRZ0WggdP8utPuaMca6cwifuIFLLsSJCQcevlcAeFrh5uB2vh_f21xL-4oUl_DnIAK7f3TBYlnXHrByioVQahcQD/s1600/IMG_4693.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It seemed as if everyone hit the road this weekend to drive to the coast. This was my third time visiting Tomales Point. The mood along the coast line changes dramatically when the fog lifts. My brother and I completed the 10 mile hike at last and were rewarded with this gorgeous view. A little bit of nature does the soul good. I can't imagine a better way to send off the summer than a coastal hike. It's becoming something of a yearly tradition. Summer in its traditional sense might be over, but it's only just begun for the Bay Area. Cheers to indian summers!</div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-84422994703990765692014-07-22T22:34:00.000-07:002014-07-22T22:35:00.948-07:00Suffering is optional.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3Xj5Xk8NJ-fo8FOZJWCK8Q_0XHsV2nAB7cDvRVstC_PkBzck7dsx14tdoJMtaBroP348_PYLFct41lL2i-6isA7rXwky5f7QBhZJYUiILCAZbZxCeCJ4VmkjoHkCLSgVFuIHzZmhKK_5/s1600/IMG_4553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3Xj5Xk8NJ-fo8FOZJWCK8Q_0XHsV2nAB7cDvRVstC_PkBzck7dsx14tdoJMtaBroP348_PYLFct41lL2i-6isA7rXwky5f7QBhZJYUiILCAZbZxCeCJ4VmkjoHkCLSgVFuIHzZmhKK_5/s1600/IMG_4553.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Jim Rohn famously said that we're the average of the five people we spend the most time with. With that said, I've been surrounding myself with people who I look up to socially and physically in regards to fitness.<br />
<br />
So I've been doing my best to stay healthy these past few months and in doing so I've picked up running.<br />
<br />
I've always been predisposed to hate running. I have flat feet and so for the longest time I've only run indoors on a treadmill. Lately though, I've taken to running outdoors. Partly because it doesn't require me to pay for a gym membership and partly because it can be done anywhere, but mostly because I wanted to challenge myself more physically.<br />
<br />
My siblings have been a large influence in this; both of my brothers are avid runners these days. My family overall is extremely health conscious.<br />
<br />
I've gotten to the point where I can run longer distances comfortably. And with that I've developed a newborn confidence in myself and in my body. It's incredible to witness how the human body can adjust slowly to endure more physical stress. My body always feels sluggish when I start to run but once I reach the halfway point of my run, something always changes. In What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, Murakami writes about the importance of having a mantra while you're running. One that he's particularly fond of is "Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." That one resonated with me.<br />
<br />
The Berkeley Half Marathon is in the beginning of November this year. I still haven't paid for my registration, but I'm building up the courage to soon!Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-49659799172512693462014-07-19T16:01:00.005-07:002014-07-19T16:01:53.454-07:00New Succulent.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOnmCcH6OCT42v3CB7bhB3VEjwS-IdRB4c_Zb4vjc6r53tpxTK4IL7F3fyIxsEulZTDsBt4-uXBk9fthQrc4uhpQxN8oQDZCfqgK0eVu3W-DTfL9gIsCUUVKHys7EP5R3YeAm4bKH-rvJ/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOnmCcH6OCT42v3CB7bhB3VEjwS-IdRB4c_Zb4vjc6r53tpxTK4IL7F3fyIxsEulZTDsBt4-uXBk9fthQrc4uhpQxN8oQDZCfqgK0eVu3W-DTfL9gIsCUUVKHys7EP5R3YeAm4bKH-rvJ/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" height="900" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I purchased this succulent on my way back from brunch at Guerilla Cafe last weekend. I've passed that particular florist for the past 8 years and had never stepped inside until then. I like the flowers that bloom from it--adding a bit of whimsy. In any case, I love having some green in my apartment. It sure does liven up the space.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-58379804626100963182014-07-11T16:44:00.002-07:002014-07-13T00:21:52.124-07:00Manhattan Beach.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzvh8pWw7guO9MNJ5BLM1XjkZJZe1k1AUJLCWgKej3w6AKRUPAAXVg4Gfnj9AO0NryuPk2z_ze1SkYkoco8YRgbVmVh71nbD-7sziGeWCh4gun2eMSLWfLU_PRA4dC19kMpzqFT54TqOP/s1600/10454996_10152518639676061_7602236826193881146_o+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzvh8pWw7guO9MNJ5BLM1XjkZJZe1k1AUJLCWgKej3w6AKRUPAAXVg4Gfnj9AO0NryuPk2z_ze1SkYkoco8YRgbVmVh71nbD-7sziGeWCh4gun2eMSLWfLU_PRA4dC19kMpzqFT54TqOP/s1600/10454996_10152518639676061_7602236826193881146_o+copy.jpg" height="380" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJaiC2LnUsxHZtP6AYz7fZZN5OIXsOh5FWkNDqZiiZ-4XTtjxTpvmqqzMQQH2HEjf2y9d48Vb3InCmy_Ju1pXHT3eFSnhMnkOPOSWHvdYWJAwzWGxHYW1bGd1UGR6DrhyNR3KiZJUov3C/s1600/IMG_4189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJaiC2LnUsxHZtP6AYz7fZZN5OIXsOh5FWkNDqZiiZ-4XTtjxTpvmqqzMQQH2HEjf2y9d48Vb3InCmy_Ju1pXHT3eFSnhMnkOPOSWHvdYWJAwzWGxHYW1bGd1UGR6DrhyNR3KiZJUov3C/s1600/IMG_4189.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I've always liked the idea of setting rituals and traditions. When you're working at a desk job, time tends to slip right out of your hands. It's becoming harder for me to remember the way I've felt during certain events in my life in the past, so I think establishing certain rituals really adds meaning to my life. Life goes on, indifferent to your troubles or moments of joy. Rituals act as a form of punctuation.<br />
<br />
So naturally when I got the chance to go home for July 4th weekend I specifically asked to visit Manhattan Beach. It's become something of my own summer ritual with my brother. We had a sangria-filled lunch at Simmzy's and wandered along the pier afterwards. The perfect way to kick off the long weekend if you ask me.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-65127616934709505662014-07-11T00:00:00.001-07:002014-10-06T13:40:08.905-07:00Mansur Gavriel.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r58REVRHH81CSPy82c6eWRcaDAN8pBWZ_vVxOtLJ6EJRFiJsvHDqjsEzNMmJ0t5u5SUfKcoElrjkNymWvsfJkaNQlU0aKZralqkvQ1myFIVrNeAZupUFLSarzrGobnwniCmBf5Co_Qa7/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-10+at+11.59.37+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r58REVRHH81CSPy82c6eWRcaDAN8pBWZ_vVxOtLJ6EJRFiJsvHDqjsEzNMmJ0t5u5SUfKcoElrjkNymWvsfJkaNQlU0aKZralqkvQ1myFIVrNeAZupUFLSarzrGobnwniCmBf5Co_Qa7/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-10+at+11.59.37+PM.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What is it with women and their handbags? I am obsessed with them. I feel frivolous for writing about this, but it's pretty much impossible to overstate the significance of the handbag as an accessory. It's more than just a repository for daily essentials--it makes a statement and in a sense becomes an extension of yourself. It creates a first impression and projects an image.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This thing of beauty above is the latest thing to have captured my eye. I am completely enamored. I received a <a href="http://www.mansurgavriel.com/products/large-tote-cammello/rosa" target="_blank">tote bag</a> from Mansur Gavriel as a birthday gift last year, and have been following the dynamic duo behind the label ever since. They blew up overnight and have covered in countless fashion publications. They are incredibly responsive on social media as well and have done gangbusters in turning instagram followers into rabid brand ambassadors--including myself. Look at me, I'm writing about them! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In any case, it's really tough to snag a bag these days. They opened their website to orders and sold out almost immediately. I am particularly in love with with their mini bucket bags right now, but will have to be content with admiring on social media for now. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mansurgavriel.com/" target="_blank">Mansur Gavriel</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mini Bucket Bag (Black Flamma)</div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-39642724075945291792014-07-10T23:46:00.000-07:002014-07-10T23:46:04.447-07:00Giverny.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bzSsG6AoxbqD0qPVheTLpp4hihZ9jjiYKd4-vsmrkZaDDyhFIAaiEU6gZAgO8jTniwAoRO11voPFtKC3fdZf5yxs4MJOwY-Kls4B_wfdnH4g8LJ8jazyofUQvqZpt5vCHYFZiJbvu0C2/s1600/IMG_3917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bzSsG6AoxbqD0qPVheTLpp4hihZ9jjiYKd4-vsmrkZaDDyhFIAaiEU6gZAgO8jTniwAoRO11voPFtKC3fdZf5yxs4MJOwY-Kls4B_wfdnH4g8LJ8jazyofUQvqZpt5vCHYFZiJbvu0C2/s1600/IMG_3917.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We debated for a long time between visiting Giverny or Versailles. I went through an obsessive Monet phase when I was 10-13 so I pushed for Giverny in the end and I'm so glad I did! The day we went was on yet another strike day for the TGV, so the train situation was a bit tricky but we made it in the end. It's an easy 45 minute train ride outside Paris. Once you get out of the station, you take a shuttle to the gardens and to Monet's home!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkfdUAlTVSfrLsVTuzlJYIZd8GYXlGkKwYfWitbWP2WcEMZM0ZKUm4PnWkOUNlrN2XbuJiVa3BRp85sx44ySVvlJ5SY2q0MR_ataO58xCkbXjwTOFPgJMvN6ALTmdds1e-BaQ8PsUx1hQ/s1600/IMG_3918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkfdUAlTVSfrLsVTuzlJYIZd8GYXlGkKwYfWitbWP2WcEMZM0ZKUm4PnWkOUNlrN2XbuJiVa3BRp85sx44ySVvlJ5SY2q0MR_ataO58xCkbXjwTOFPgJMvN6ALTmdds1e-BaQ8PsUx1hQ/s1600/IMG_3918.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I can hardly believe the photo I took above is actually real. Walking through the gardens was incredibly surreal after spending most of my life thinking of Monet in a more abstract sense. It pretty much looks like the painting itself in person. If you love flowers, then visiting Giverny is an absolute must. The gardens were absolutely exploding with flowers. Summer is the perfect time of year to come, but be ready for the crowds and the heat!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58ijA1dS_ukk5bpsX_dYPxGtbQil5PsqrLQf6eWYseNeVmSEItz8G-7cY2HgVfxQnAvDMX9ypd6x5_wJue7R7MBW3Jf9halquY9Rl20YCqfALBqswuO1F0JLGbo9OYK70IN7hf0c7ZFhJ/s1600/IMG_3932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58ijA1dS_ukk5bpsX_dYPxGtbQil5PsqrLQf6eWYseNeVmSEItz8G-7cY2HgVfxQnAvDMX9ypd6x5_wJue7R7MBW3Jf9halquY9Rl20YCqfALBqswuO1F0JLGbo9OYK70IN7hf0c7ZFhJ/s1600/IMG_3932.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgVa0-d5JfcCxiy06dkhBZPke0ZzexyzUb7jRdoSZm6lDZXGHKKVsa6tCFV-3wGH1h34p6ZIg0vmCZX1z4pjV1fzxNg8OLxxaRNqX9u-o5Dmal3YoUJ8XpwR32yq1VNs2UWb2FQeM15Aw/s1600/IMG_3997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgVa0-d5JfcCxiy06dkhBZPke0ZzexyzUb7jRdoSZm6lDZXGHKKVsa6tCFV-3wGH1h34p6ZIg0vmCZX1z4pjV1fzxNg8OLxxaRNqX9u-o5Dmal3YoUJ8XpwR32yq1VNs2UWb2FQeM15Aw/s1600/IMG_3997.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-5230428448277504382014-07-10T09:00:00.000-07:002014-07-15T13:17:32.195-07:00Angelina | 1er<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri5rikgE_9-ftZL2eg4aVGF6R3UDQ5_jKmP3fM0xMPsioWjx2Zz2sgCOtqotCJ9spOeQVuqu6-ocsxkfjA_GV57oxn71PiCDyvVeNQMSVzUAE6nTL1ISSauH5dT3JcxFLcHE5nFvyxv50/s1600/IMG_3777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri5rikgE_9-ftZL2eg4aVGF6R3UDQ5_jKmP3fM0xMPsioWjx2Zz2sgCOtqotCJ9spOeQVuqu6-ocsxkfjA_GV57oxn71PiCDyvVeNQMSVzUAE6nTL1ISSauH5dT3JcxFLcHE5nFvyxv50/s1600/IMG_3777.jpg" height="854" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAu4Ibt8wLhXvDU6zA5qTq7QR3TxY5Wx6Vy0eLpDJG6ANRMoLkQET_O7us_GCQ9CCGiDInw1AZDjGgI6AqzYwpSpJvH9dhJlUebTfzW3qTExsGot1WRAuBjTIMTDA20u_w6Iah1cFC1iRg/s1600/IMG_3776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAu4Ibt8wLhXvDU6zA5qTq7QR3TxY5Wx6Vy0eLpDJG6ANRMoLkQET_O7us_GCQ9CCGiDInw1AZDjGgI6AqzYwpSpJvH9dhJlUebTfzW3qTExsGot1WRAuBjTIMTDA20u_w6Iah1cFC1iRg/s1600/IMG_3776.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">There are some reliable chains that you can count on when traveling through Paris. Paul was my favorite place to grab a quick bite and of course the above, </span>Angelina<span style="font-style: normal;">. We went to the one next to the Tuileries. Between the two of us we just had the breakfast which included four croissants and two pieces of bread with an assortment of jams to share between two people. Andrew tried their famous hot chocolate--which was delicious but a bit too heavy after the first few minutes. I had orange juice and coffee. All in all, a comparable experience to brunch at Ladurée and surprisingly filling too! The macarons were really good but I'm still ever faithful to <a href="https://www.chantalguillon.com/" target="_blank">Chantal Guillon</a> macarons in Hayes Valley!</span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.angelina-paris.fr/" target="_blank">Angelina</a></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">226 rue de Rivoli</span></div>
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">75001</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;"> </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Paris</span></div>
</span><div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">France</span></div>
<span style="font-style: normal;">Concorde/Madeleine, 1er</span></div>
</address>
</address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</address>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-4927025177651079512014-07-09T23:42:00.001-07:002014-07-11T00:24:33.540-07:00Les Cocottes | 7ème<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhUy8rYpZrJ1J99qvJPlH5AVYs8mNkF4vx8zruxlVZ7XZXDbiHG3JAwUgSTHkMvjVk8_4eqDna1M-DE1VVIMYl5cGu2d09pGQ8hV1Et_8ZLUq3icrdvdQgfvlynH3J_kl9yg_doJF6Vpg/s1600/IMG_3623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhUy8rYpZrJ1J99qvJPlH5AVYs8mNkF4vx8zruxlVZ7XZXDbiHG3JAwUgSTHkMvjVk8_4eqDna1M-DE1VVIMYl5cGu2d09pGQ8hV1Et_8ZLUq3icrdvdQgfvlynH3J_kl9yg_doJF6Vpg/s1600/IMG_3623.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Our first dinner in Paris was in the 7ème arrondisement at Les Cocottes. We wanted to eat nearby the Eiffel Tower so that we could walk over afterwards to see the lights turn on and sparkle.<br />
<br />
This was a really modern establishment compared to all of the other places we had eaten in France at that point. It's run by Christian Constant, who is something like the head judge of the French version of Top Chef. There was swag from his cookbooks behind the bar of the restaurant which made me a little weary. But, all in all it was a wonderful experience--and a really American one at that.<br />
<br />
We didn't have to ask for une carafe d'eau; it came automatically. That was the most common mistake I made while traveling--failing to specify what kind of water I wanted. We ended up paying for bottled water needlessly on several occasions. The waiters also come back to check on you and ask how you're doing which is basically unheard of in most French restaurants.<br />
<br />
We shared the foie gras to start with. I had the beef bavette for my main dish (pictured above) and it was delicious! Very tender...although it wasn't hot enough in my opinion. For dessert we shared the creme brulee, pretty conventional but it was really well done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUto9S6ZdAg2-zhi458UiJRlYomrZDKyv1kPjdq4TaxzOBrZ_UWnLHUfCPxI-3FOACWqreWPUdboKNC9N4c80NgD_yJu21dVt26X97655hloM0axkbQADRb2ebuJSXQsVTJ9_cJMC3O4QC/s1600/IMG_3624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUto9S6ZdAg2-zhi458UiJRlYomrZDKyv1kPjdq4TaxzOBrZ_UWnLHUfCPxI-3FOACWqreWPUdboKNC9N4c80NgD_yJu21dVt26X97655hloM0axkbQADRb2ebuJSXQsVTJ9_cJMC3O4QC/s1600/IMG_3624.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This was a really easy dinner night--no waiting for a table or dealing with grumpy waiters muttering <i>putains </i>under their breath. We walked in around 6 PM (which is extremely early for dinner in France) and were seated immediately at the bar. I'd easily recommend it to another friend.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/les-cocottes-paris" target="_blank">Les Cocottes</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
135 rue Saint Dominique</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
75007 Paris</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
France</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tour Eiffel/Champ de Mars, 7ème</div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-53123151848765075202014-07-09T20:31:00.000-07:002014-07-10T12:12:18.807-07:00Paris, at last.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2u7RONmhLwzCT7FkwI0ZH3M_6P5TE1MFggtcqH5e-5xv4SVHKGe1Nv8vqlnzq6qdkE4ISfOZeNk5OSPNzRaPudemG4B9Mf7ltOw-ud_UujRG5kgbSaSk2Gbrp4jB3ycG0c16jSiP32zgv/s1600/IMG_3627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2u7RONmhLwzCT7FkwI0ZH3M_6P5TE1MFggtcqH5e-5xv4SVHKGe1Nv8vqlnzq6qdkE4ISfOZeNk5OSPNzRaPudemG4B9Mf7ltOw-ud_UujRG5kgbSaSk2Gbrp4jB3ycG0c16jSiP32zgv/s1600/IMG_3627.jpg" height="854" width="640" /></a><br />
We left Lyon and its oppressive heat and escaped to Paris via the TGV. I visited Paris for the first time back in March for a weekend when I was in London for work. But here's the thing--I didn't love it the first time.<br />
<br />
Paris might not be for everyone, but for nearly half of my life I was a staunch Francophile. I took French language classes for 8 years, read Le Clézio, studied French culture, became deeply fixated by its immigration problems, their penchant for les gréves and complaining for the sake of complaining. I <i>loved </i>all things French yet had never gone until this past year.<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_496531569"></span>
Perhaps it was too much of my idealization of France clashing with the realities of arriving for the first time as an American. Heck, it was my first time out of the country back in March as an adult. Needless to say, I felt like an outsider. Despite all its charms, Paris greeted me with indifference in the end. This time around, I ended my two week vacation in Paris. There's always a comfort in returning to a place even if it spit you out the first time around. We were elated to just have been <i>out </i>of Lyon. We were beginning to go a little stir crazy, especially because of the heat wave.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFLdYEccv9GVg91wHjGody8ceEOQBmN04_23zVrFxZ6vccezlAAm8HAf8bZpJi5U-Ic0rw9bCwnrEL3P8vNvsl1y_12g7hq1loaB_A9xp3IuH1AwZuD-cMg1Oyw32zVyGs-rr5oVDRJyF/s1600/IMG_4087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFLdYEccv9GVg91wHjGody8ceEOQBmN04_23zVrFxZ6vccezlAAm8HAf8bZpJi5U-Ic0rw9bCwnrEL3P8vNvsl1y_12g7hq1loaB_A9xp3IuH1AwZuD-cMg1Oyw32zVyGs-rr5oVDRJyF/s1600/IMG_4087.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This time around, Paris revealed herself to me for the first time ever. I fell in love with how beautiful it was. The light truly is different. But I had amazing experiences as well. The food this time around was far better than the first. The people were not quite as friendly as the Spanish, but welcoming still.<br />
<br />
When we got off the train, it was pouring. We checked into our hotel looking like wet dogs, but were elated nonetheless. Promptly after cleaning ourselves up, the sun came out and we went outside for a stroll. We walked from our hotel near Sacré Coeur over to the Tuileries and just walked and walked. We stopped by the Eiffel Tower and snapped photos before heading over to Les Cocottes for an early dinner. After dinner we just kept...walking and talking. Walking and talking.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-35184175845308185992014-07-09T20:00:00.003-07:002014-07-09T22:19:13.324-07:00Revenir.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1R34RG69C7Uzz4dGohpJG4KFwZFQgkO0aTEPLJlnaWgd0xr0-0opBC8A6KA0iT2OYZUetY4vkzZbG2m0aJh8QKAtiDXU4LLCbBI-vAC3kYdX_m6tvgTHh5G8p6GkddFDslYKL8ttFFAg/s1600/IMG_3614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1R34RG69C7Uzz4dGohpJG4KFwZFQgkO0aTEPLJlnaWgd0xr0-0opBC8A6KA0iT2OYZUetY4vkzZbG2m0aJh8QKAtiDXU4LLCbBI-vAC3kYdX_m6tvgTHh5G8p6GkddFDslYKL8ttFFAg/s1600/IMG_3614.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCvKqZc31DJ4o6XOnSoh1caqWJ71RtD6EHZEL6pskXm-8_CbHZsJBoa0Axsd0uBEME-PPPIJe-B01Ru4nF8vnOt43UAWM4H2T0tjTqDxNZ-nODTEqptF4g1pSvsUJ2soMbuijyEh_Djqw/s1600/IMG_4120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCvKqZc31DJ4o6XOnSoh1caqWJ71RtD6EHZEL6pskXm-8_CbHZsJBoa0Axsd0uBEME-PPPIJe-B01Ru4nF8vnOt43UAWM4H2T0tjTqDxNZ-nODTEqptF4g1pSvsUJ2soMbuijyEh_Djqw/s1600/IMG_4120.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"...I fell in love with Paris. Paris--and this is the tricky thing--though it is always and indubitably itself, is also in its nature a difficult city to love for itself alone. What truly makes Paris beautiful is the intermingling of the monumental and the personal, the abstract and the footsore particular, it and you. A city of vast and impersonal set piece architecture, it is also a city of the small and intricate, improvised experience." ~ Adam Gopnik, <i>Paris to the Moon</i>Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-7855808497288618362014-07-02T21:30:00.001-07:002014-07-10T00:10:47.023-07:00Beaujolais & Perouges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4Rq4mTRL8mWCNSnvR4pi3-2U3ogsiCHjW0E1yE0T2R2lwM_nuqeAFXB53yVEF4dP1IJ8gOPim7Vwzk_WFFJZQU4M7V-FQDdLJ1YtoGfUlmxWCwM8G8vOKcND5hg2njhOqk63Q0lP0w2-/s1600/IMG_3436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4Rq4mTRL8mWCNSnvR4pi3-2U3ogsiCHjW0E1yE0T2R2lwM_nuqeAFXB53yVEF4dP1IJ8gOPim7Vwzk_WFFJZQU4M7V-FQDdLJ1YtoGfUlmxWCwM8G8vOKcND5hg2njhOqk63Q0lP0w2-/s1600/IMG_3436.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
If you're ever in Lyon, you must make it out to wine country. It's an easy thirty minute drive out of the city. We booked a small tour in advance so we could avoid the hassle of renting and driving a car in a foreign country. If Lyon has one thing over all of the other cities we visited, it is the wine. We did a wine tasting at Dominique Guillard's winery and it was <i>amazing</i>. Everything was delicious. I especially liked the gamay rosé and some of the lighter reds that were perfect for drinking on hotter summer days. Each bottle was only 5 EUROS. I wanted to walk away with an entire crate full, but you can only drink so much wine between two people. We ended up choosing to drink in moderation and purchased two bottles.<br />
<br />
I learned that the Beaujolais wine isn't aged in oak here. They actually use vines that can go up to 100 years old. It was really interesting to see the flower covered fields that were left out to lay fallow until it was time to replant again. I also learned that the quality of the wine is largely determined by the soil--soil that is best suited when the terrain is very hilly--hence all of the dramatic views as seen below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYp5ZGmOTfRUcQ0JeGymC5eHn5RLtr2DYhWEw9ycguvKzrGXSDKGtLCL0gJsOiincRL5nBx6l06ylX1x0PPLptI4nD9JBIkfch4PAFhAe-QGFzR8l3hcw2ltRe7D30MQ4oAuyMJZL9f-p/s1600/IMG_3331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYp5ZGmOTfRUcQ0JeGymC5eHn5RLtr2DYhWEw9ycguvKzrGXSDKGtLCL0gJsOiincRL5nBx6l06ylX1x0PPLptI4nD9JBIkfch4PAFhAe-QGFzR8l3hcw2ltRe7D30MQ4oAuyMJZL9f-p/s1600/IMG_3331.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
The views were incredible. We drove throughout the Beaujolais region and made pitstops in Perouges and Oingt--old towns that contained buildings all made from yellow stones from the quarries in the region. It was cherry season at the time as well. We passed by trees swollen with cherries ready for picking. I wanted to just stick my arm out the window and grab a fist full as we passed by on those rolling hills.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3zHuZ93zoRxSIigx-NKuEim-yg48Uc4-xDerKt7QahoG7B5QLPrPvqdR009i0zqJV796mpyq73ml2JmuISB0LmAVYFNOy1gPwOLU0Gp3fsrW2dc5_zKB6pgFmnMlFjylmG3pw_LVheGa/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3zHuZ93zoRxSIigx-NKuEim-yg48Uc4-xDerKt7QahoG7B5QLPrPvqdR009i0zqJV796mpyq73ml2JmuISB0LmAVYFNOy1gPwOLU0Gp3fsrW2dc5_zKB6pgFmnMlFjylmG3pw_LVheGa/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJi-Sof10oJWTyV0zgrRCqCUHNTKl4gZ4WrRcdOplGwO3lpdSCfWORt3yTGjyK7odpnKAaBSTjOscrUELn7NSZKE6Z4AdS9AT248tnQDzY_o1gtF0vP0bdPTL_269-WapS5ayIM2MsOMOu/s1600/IMG_3398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJi-Sof10oJWTyV0zgrRCqCUHNTKl4gZ4WrRcdOplGwO3lpdSCfWORt3yTGjyK7odpnKAaBSTjOscrUELn7NSZKE6Z4AdS9AT248tnQDzY_o1gtF0vP0bdPTL_269-WapS5ayIM2MsOMOu/s1600/IMG_3398.JPG" height="854" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyS7cwP75pQ4njjedsQW3To3KVOCTvUpowIupNapVm2gWi2-JTnz3ldEy6u-kByos5zsm7WkB1K6vEh0G6bPKvSXcmEcOsbrDv2RUB3ahBdh-3FOvP9Ky5pM8UHkqP3HWvJsc83eIHYaqH/s1600/IMG_3377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyS7cwP75pQ4njjedsQW3To3KVOCTvUpowIupNapVm2gWi2-JTnz3ldEy6u-kByos5zsm7WkB1K6vEh0G6bPKvSXcmEcOsbrDv2RUB3ahBdh-3FOvP9Ky5pM8UHkqP3HWvJsc83eIHYaqH/s1600/IMG_3377.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There were a lot of castles in the area as well; many which are still occupied and remain private residences. Doesn't that sound nice? There are of course newer buildings as well, but they must all be painted yellow to follow the regional yellow stone tradition. I thought the funniest bit on the tour was when we learned that in the past, vinters were forced to pay taxes to the churches in the form of wine grapes. Of course, they would only hand over the crap grapes which angered authorities. So they demanded wine next, which produced the same result: crap wine. Eventually, the churches were allowed to determine which time of year and exactly when they could go and choose the grapes themselves. Those tricky vinters, I like them. All in all, I had a blast that day sightseeing and sipping wine with Andrew.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-29396965846894959302014-07-01T10:58:00.001-07:002014-07-08T17:07:06.817-07:00Next stop, Lyon.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP27ky7AtFs77phSoZl3XuFKESHUkeKrkaQJzuFElgcHIDnHvFQurDvt3-r1h0-zQOi43f9GPaHY6ur09wJTuiwm-8TmjJWZkapL1TtVoFRSwskmtnunGvbDNgcFBjh3LIpxQnLk5wwM8x/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP27ky7AtFs77phSoZl3XuFKESHUkeKrkaQJzuFElgcHIDnHvFQurDvt3-r1h0-zQOi43f9GPaHY6ur09wJTuiwm-8TmjJWZkapL1TtVoFRSwskmtnunGvbDNgcFBjh3LIpxQnLk5wwM8x/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho5wf2eTWDp8kN7_zdGUolvTB2u4tEgaWPxFgDucF8b-omgYQr7opKXJi9DNkmvosOiZO9T-SP1UcQhuzzG5Xf6bem4KheuLzfLySSxKjjtDLJafpMZWFvn4ReIZkPyWLbw1M0PoqdX1qU/s1600/10498205_10152476479936061_8847541348435714756_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho5wf2eTWDp8kN7_zdGUolvTB2u4tEgaWPxFgDucF8b-omgYQr7opKXJi9DNkmvosOiZO9T-SP1UcQhuzzG5Xf6bem4KheuLzfLySSxKjjtDLJafpMZWFvn4ReIZkPyWLbw1M0PoqdX1qU/s1600/10498205_10152476479936061_8847541348435714756_o.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Arriving to Lyon was a bit disheartening at first. The side of town we were staying in vaguely recalled Los Angeles with its modern structures and congested roads. But I grew to love Lyon in a way. It was the part of our trip where I started to feel as if I were living in France rather than just passing through on stolen time. Shopping at the open air market for supplies for dinner, browsing aimlessly at Monoprix to escape the heat briefly, and watching dubbed American shows like Friends in the early evening hours. This is what I imagined an alternative life to be like if I were Lyonnais.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br />
We flew into Lyon from Barcelona and took the train to our AIRBNB on Rue Vauban. This was the first time we had ever rented out an entire unit through AIRBNB. The apartment was really quaint and quiet compared to the place we stayed at in Barri Gotic in Barcelona. A quiet student welcomed us into the apartment with a neat set of directions and a basket of pre-packaged croissants.I let out a sigh of relief when we arrived because it was exactly what we needed at that point. A place to recharge and take it a bit slow, especially since Andrew came down with something of a summer cold. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br />
With the sweltering heat, we moved a bit more slowly throughout our stay. Days were spent walking rather listlessly across the bridge to the main part of town. This is what I imagined summer to be like for residents--enjoying the sights around as much as possible while bearing with the heat. It would be 90 degrees even after sunset...easily 100 or over at noon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_d3U0xMqEIhMBj-Gd5mYOm4UYAC0ITRpnSi3gWoCM8I2yMHrYGPPmYUiL0Bb_-sRLPOq70q-6vz0UiRglzYZDxDtp1qqc31VrynhXr96hKbyPss_8hUs9HjncemFlhnRX0Q4p2-_j1QsM/s1600/10484495_10152476490731061_313845388718501748_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_d3U0xMqEIhMBj-Gd5mYOm4UYAC0ITRpnSi3gWoCM8I2yMHrYGPPmYUiL0Bb_-sRLPOq70q-6vz0UiRglzYZDxDtp1qqc31VrynhXr96hKbyPss_8hUs9HjncemFlhnRX0Q4p2-_j1QsM/s1600/10484495_10152476490731061_313845388718501748_o.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
I liked how carefree everyone seemed around the river. Students would be lounging on the grass amongst friends, half emptied bottles of wine with baguettes and saucisson aplenty. After our dinner at a bouchon (one of many to come), we walked along the Rhone and returned home. The sun doesn't set in the summer easily until past 10 PM. There was an eccentric older man doing his evening exercise. Every time he ran through, the crowd would hilariously (and I hope not mockingly, because that kind of breaks my heart) cheer along like fans at a soccer match. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
In Lyon, we started establishing some rituals. Walking through those quiet streets back to Rue Vauban. Stopping by the little market to buy some fruit or ice cold cans of Coca Cola. Browsing Les Halles de Lyon for groceries. Padding around the apartment barefoot. Watching random segments on the television (like this strangely engrossing French fry documentary) and hastily attempting to translate so Andrew could follow along. I think that's what ultimately made me appreciate Lyon more. Dublin too. It made me nostalgic for the time when we weren't in a long distance relationship. Not to say that Lyon was god awful and that you should never visit. But it just didn't resonate with me as a vacation spot as much as Barcelona and Paris--I guess, for the very reasons I listed above for appreciating it for what it was. In any case, more updates to come.</div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-43765421256443431162014-06-29T15:16:00.002-07:002014-07-08T17:07:22.956-07:00Parc Güell | Day 2 in Barcelona.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyEMstRt2Gmrlq3x5FArsNOzCYDNLiWrBT95LfKobmA8d1Ba7KO9uVLBPcmhi9zuluImT3KooHuPHFRjfUP6mCrbLxZ8xgps1BEBoLJS6AKN4i7Vo5ogALg6MYJSauKOb_9VwC4nnZwbe/s1600/IMG_2751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyEMstRt2Gmrlq3x5FArsNOzCYDNLiWrBT95LfKobmA8d1Ba7KO9uVLBPcmhi9zuluImT3KooHuPHFRjfUP6mCrbLxZ8xgps1BEBoLJS6AKN4i7Vo5ogALg6MYJSauKOb_9VwC4nnZwbe/s1600/IMG_2751.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8qB7sWinJ-SlpAv8MISihJGG5oKggwFMghCv0isnimlaKc6ZJmh4IcjgxVRKOxppM4muvEPnELvHmYN6AFYoE76zySUNvJNb7RqpGIP8gYmYzFYROAvDQE4VinWK7DXkGCsVeRlfGWpg/s1600/IMG_2791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8qB7sWinJ-SlpAv8MISihJGG5oKggwFMghCv0isnimlaKc6ZJmh4IcjgxVRKOxppM4muvEPnELvHmYN6AFYoE76zySUNvJNb7RqpGIP8gYmYzFYROAvDQE4VinWK7DXkGCsVeRlfGWpg/s1600/IMG_2791.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our second day in Barcelona started out at the beach. After leaving our AIRBNB in the gothic quarter, we grabbed a quick bite at Taller de Tapas next door before walking to the beach. In order to get there, you have to cut through Barceloneta, which I imagine could be potentially dicey after dark, but it was bright out and calm in the neighborhood. I whined briefly and partially jokingly to Andrew for always dragging me through sketchy places, lol.<br />
<br />
Next time I'm in Barcelona, I'll have to remember to bring a bathing suit because their beaches are absolutely gorgeous. Crystal blue waters and plenty of space to stretch out in the sand. We lounged for a bit in some beach chairs before realizing that you actually have to pay for them, oops. After cooling down with some sangria, we left the beach and started walking back towards the central part of town to catch the metro to La Sagrada Familia. I feel pretty silly now for not bothering to go in just because the line was too long, oh well.<br />
<br />
From there, we trekked on over to Parc Güell, not fully realizing how far and how uphill the walk from the church would be but we made it--as evidenced by these photographs. The park was really breathtaking and a good place to relax after walking in the heat. I enjoyed listening to all of the musicians throughout the park--it felt like a scene out of Vicky Cristina Barcelona. I love watching films set in the cities you're about to visit--it makes you feel romantic about your trip.<br />
<br />
In any case, we had to wait for an hour before we could enter the "monumental" part of the park. They now charge to enter. I think in the past it used to be free. But all in all, just gorgeous mosaic work everywhere along with the unforgettable views. This was probably my favorite day in Barcelona. After strolling through the park, we left to make our reservation at TICKETS. You can read my previous post to hear about how amazing Tickets was. So delicious.<br />
<br />
After the incredible meal we went to the Magic Fountain and waited until sunset...Unfortunately the fountain never turned on (Thursdays through Sundays, only). I hope I'll always remember how it felt to sit along the wall with other visitors waiting eagerly for the fountain and having a good time nonetheless.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEErEkoAwSC_hTx6fxfxo8Duq5SSB1kVIL7IX-6Mx6OhY6hv4DZI4lXMJCZkYGBPfEdn2uQwX3rmR6x1-z3WpJ0vyYqU0ldhcD-8NT-iBZGfm1f1PCon8GJcvZ73n3ozvl7nX3sOf1cXvd/s1600/IMG_2771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEErEkoAwSC_hTx6fxfxo8Duq5SSB1kVIL7IX-6Mx6OhY6hv4DZI4lXMJCZkYGBPfEdn2uQwX3rmR6x1-z3WpJ0vyYqU0ldhcD-8NT-iBZGfm1f1PCon8GJcvZ73n3ozvl7nX3sOf1cXvd/s1600/IMG_2771.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLwJ6hIN_GmqxAB_ZIusKTupXYAGWasst8w-KJ5djQFXPzhNJxXUiqLRfSp4zmuiQjqqx6_1uKDmCjhyfxgxdkbQFUROjg9zQVZynBZ6CzMTIqCcAvfFJkVwEbTEVOLE1q7lYNr0mqixh/s1600/IMG_2778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLwJ6hIN_GmqxAB_ZIusKTupXYAGWasst8w-KJ5djQFXPzhNJxXUiqLRfSp4zmuiQjqqx6_1uKDmCjhyfxgxdkbQFUROjg9zQVZynBZ6CzMTIqCcAvfFJkVwEbTEVOLE1q7lYNr0mqixh/s1600/IMG_2778.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-61033266816668871172014-06-28T17:45:00.001-07:002014-07-11T00:25:11.795-07:00Barcelona is for food lovers.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwMpkaCZzSaKxfMsBjUjnoaSx_HaurkAPyD02neMCv_hKV5Nuf0h7kZRnUXI0awfCPNtC1NWJmYrzcbzRboaAwUoF4qgM5OPGwlEhxUZkfkhz4CA_2b2IUihfoZIEpYSyWadyM5SNXH1Y/s1600/IMG_2697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwMpkaCZzSaKxfMsBjUjnoaSx_HaurkAPyD02neMCv_hKV5Nuf0h7kZRnUXI0awfCPNtC1NWJmYrzcbzRboaAwUoF4qgM5OPGwlEhxUZkfkhz4CA_2b2IUihfoZIEpYSyWadyM5SNXH1Y/s1600/IMG_2697.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYHxQxQoq7wdCxCY4Gq_-7qU-GRcRLJ1UEg0b6XcKzhYhr8nEYjKBYegl-cVmGETy5oVYWYoYWS-GHHekMHjqalQERJdt8_Fw0Jn-Su-e0IQtfhmZzsxuiDbGdi_9Rk6wUaaluvi5a-7o/s1600/IMG_2698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYHxQxQoq7wdCxCY4Gq_-7qU-GRcRLJ1UEg0b6XcKzhYhr8nEYjKBYegl-cVmGETy5oVYWYoYWS-GHHekMHjqalQERJdt8_Fw0Jn-Su-e0IQtfhmZzsxuiDbGdi_9Rk6wUaaluvi5a-7o/s1600/IMG_2698.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a><br />
<br />
<i>"People who love to eat are always the best people." - Julia Child</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
When we planned our trip, we added Lyon because of its reputation for being France's gastronomical capitol. <i>However</i>, it really did not hold up to the incomparable Barcelona. Everything in Barcelona was <i>delicious, </i>almost pornographically so. We spent a lot of time researching where we wanted to eat (as one does) before taking off for our trip. I knew I wanted churros con chocolate, because uhm. <i>Because</i>. In any case, I spent most of the visit stuffing my face at every opportunity and then walking it off. I'm grateful for a boyfriend who really relishes eating because as Julia Child said, people who love to eat are the best people!<br />
<br />
If you are visiting Barcelona soon, you <i>must </i>visit the following three places:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/tickets-bar-barcelona?osq=tickets" target="_blank">TICKETS</a> - This was by far the fanciest meal I've had to date. You have to make your reservation months in advance. Expect really inventive tapas, excellent service, and a most memorable meal. I was really glad my boyfriend went through the trouble to snag a reservation way back in March. My favorite tapas was the grilled octopus with kimchee. Best. Octopus. Ever.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/pinotxo-barcelona" target="_blank">PINOTXO BAR</a> - My brother and a coworker had recommended Pinotxo to me as I was researching joints to eat at. We actually didn't find it our first time wandering through the Boqueria but I am so glad we did. We should have eaten here daily because it was just the freshest, most delicious food. The old man that presumably owns the place is adorable. You just tell him if you want meat or fish and he takes it from there. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/cal-pep-barcelona" target="_blank">CAL PEP</a> - This also came as a recommendation from a coworker. Come here if you love seafood. We waited in line for seats at the bar. Go with the recommended courses from the chef and they'll just take it from there. I really loved the fish here. I have no idea what kind of fish it was, but oh my god, I'm drooling at the thought of it.</li>
</ul>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-30388298744748423242014-06-28T17:25:00.001-07:002014-07-08T17:07:45.481-07:00Northern Ireland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAOtCwjLmVkSChRA1O3SivjaLoOtfJoitwW9MqVunk5RdhWaa7-AsDV51xh78Y2f7NFn8mLjmh1Rd3x87QP_iUOXXtFNHOJ5zIolRqFkc41vE751UKEgFzQ2z_uuplb0FD-K7phet2SVG/s1600/IMG_2464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAOtCwjLmVkSChRA1O3SivjaLoOtfJoitwW9MqVunk5RdhWaa7-AsDV51xh78Y2f7NFn8mLjmh1Rd3x87QP_iUOXXtFNHOJ5zIolRqFkc41vE751UKEgFzQ2z_uuplb0FD-K7phet2SVG/s1600/IMG_2464.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
During my first weekend in Ireland, I had the chance to visit Northern Ireland with Andrew. We didn't want to rent a car, so we went on one of those Paddywagon Tours that a friend had suggested. The tour takes you through Belfast and up to cross the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge and Giant's Causeway.<br />
<br />
It was a really beautiful day and so clear out along the Northern Coastline. I was really impressed with it all, having been taken primarily with California's coastline. If you look below, you could almost imagine this being out somewhere along Highway 1 don't you think? In any case, I actually liked the rope bridge visit more so than Giant's Causeway. The Causeway is really fascinating but aesthetically speaking, I didn't think it held up to what you see below.<br />
<br />
As for the tour itself, we had a ton of fun. We had really awful seats on the bus (poor Andrew's legs barely fit in the aisle), but overall it was a great value. We had lunch before heading to the causeway in a tiny mom and pop restaurant (I had seafood stew) and then we returned to Dublin around 5 PM to catch our early reservation at Pearl Brasserie. This was one of my favorite days on the trip. I didn't feel stressed out. I didn't think about the e-mails coming through for work. I just had a blast visiting new places with Andrew. All in all an unforgettable start to my trip abroad.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEGjxvudFe0GyuSspVgjPPh_F1JRy0Ao_7MWHK6ukjo1oGbq4XkLLkbZ-AKb6xUmjPrvv8CrIDxLxWddrIzOki-G1YTfrbXxPD70IundvkFwjj3SSOg1ihFLVky-aszAbAQFCWXEIG8-N/s1600/IMG_2446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEGjxvudFe0GyuSspVgjPPh_F1JRy0Ao_7MWHK6ukjo1oGbq4XkLLkbZ-AKb6xUmjPrvv8CrIDxLxWddrIzOki-G1YTfrbXxPD70IundvkFwjj3SSOg1ihFLVky-aszAbAQFCWXEIG8-N/s1600/IMG_2446.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VC9jKMCNpmeEHfgWancXsv1pCU0F5LSMD9y6-cusF301n488WLAG-Ca4Gvw2X6VOXhqp178N_gXDBvV1ZRYgpxGMspVtWcylm-7pmh6eJUGSvmDRzRU87S7WSOAbiN2bDkPPUmMS4uL1/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VC9jKMCNpmeEHfgWancXsv1pCU0F5LSMD9y6-cusF301n488WLAG-Ca4Gvw2X6VOXhqp178N_gXDBvV1ZRYgpxGMspVtWcylm-7pmh6eJUGSvmDRzRU87S7WSOAbiN2bDkPPUmMS4uL1/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJ3ly0hIm2J0qAoIY-AaXKgtqmrBVFDFdUcA8W55Eq_0RQ1YpxaUfVgQFMHwXegP3u1lXwRsSrMshBshwq7WkF3SZ-w3PQKmTGy9CgaZkktUMQoEYv2DS5r5iLDAkKVRitAurn_BXoS7N/s1600/IMG_2410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJ3ly0hIm2J0qAoIY-AaXKgtqmrBVFDFdUcA8W55Eq_0RQ1YpxaUfVgQFMHwXegP3u1lXwRsSrMshBshwq7WkF3SZ-w3PQKmTGy9CgaZkktUMQoEYv2DS5r5iLDAkKVRitAurn_BXoS7N/s1600/IMG_2410.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCZzduQjJfefe8sPeisty0dwDjYSwzO9Mj71ymOXM9vIgQMc1Dc834e3VJkEW0x7WskhN5qK3vAnvboCzT1nTdKU4geVcpuG0s_AYZ6PqlB55fwUeiJoRNleREeKLU5czb1hnXrz8orkP/s1600/IMG_2456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCZzduQjJfefe8sPeisty0dwDjYSwzO9Mj71ymOXM9vIgQMc1Dc834e3VJkEW0x7WskhN5qK3vAnvboCzT1nTdKU4geVcpuG0s_AYZ6PqlB55fwUeiJoRNleREeKLU5czb1hnXrz8orkP/s1600/IMG_2456.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-81120566242173968342014-06-22T20:00:00.001-07:002014-07-08T17:07:56.897-07:00The feeling of being truly carefree.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgQ8RVdG2vRjiReuHsLirwCZIVfPhE_JZRlTmDNu8ng87LkNvfmGK7tTRpm-h5Aal-8_92IFFeY6PHP5-TzafWjWrhg4soltE54HxivkieBw7KqpMQwJnKMjPn7BLlAVwleiGSkQAXDju/s1600/IMG_2300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgQ8RVdG2vRjiReuHsLirwCZIVfPhE_JZRlTmDNu8ng87LkNvfmGK7tTRpm-h5Aal-8_92IFFeY6PHP5-TzafWjWrhg4soltE54HxivkieBw7KqpMQwJnKMjPn7BLlAVwleiGSkQAXDju/s1600/IMG_2300.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Ireland was a home away from home. I cannot begin to describe the comfort of having a place rendered familiar by virtue of the fact that someone you love lives there. It was so enjoyable for me to see the place where my boyfriend has been spending his year abroad from the moment I hopped into my cab to the second I arrived in his neighborhood and rang the doorbell at that bright blue Georgian door.<br />
<br />
Of course, I got ripped off by my cab driver. But you live and you learn I suppose.<br />
<br />
I spent my first day exploring Trinity College solo. It resembled Berkeley's campus in many ways, but I guess we can't boast of having the oldest book in the world in our library. Seeing the Book of Kells was incredible. The thought of being in the presence of a book from 800 AD still sends chills down my spine. Following the exhibition, I continued along into Trinity's long library too. Oh to be able to actually have access to such a magnificent library for research! It was so romantic in there thinking of the students and scholars using such a beautiful library.<br />
<br />
I lucked out with the weather during my stay. Not a single drop of rain. I miss it so much already. It was just one leg of my trip but I would do anything to be walking around in Ballsbridge right now hand in hand, enjoying the extra long days; the feeling of lightness knowing that I had no obligations the following day. Vacation is such a precious thing.<br />
<br />Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-64961021013516115912014-04-10T10:30:00.000-07:002014-07-11T00:25:40.530-07:00Commuter Style.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6h9Td0PKTKQ_DqAnWJevGqg0WBm3yvxkY80pKhTEegvel_pUDDFyOpSIi_6RpdxpyzZeHKFOFAqubPUXmuq8jmtK5WYHeNNcX9y9pktpJMBx1E-t3e0FGYpjrHw23lYe6lgJGkycC-ds/s1600/backpacks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6h9Td0PKTKQ_DqAnWJevGqg0WBm3yvxkY80pKhTEegvel_pUDDFyOpSIi_6RpdxpyzZeHKFOFAqubPUXmuq8jmtK5WYHeNNcX9y9pktpJMBx1E-t3e0FGYpjrHw23lYe6lgJGkycC-ds/s1600/backpacks.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I've had backpacks on my mind for a while now. Commuting on BART daily with a purse and tote bag among other things depending on the weather just has proven to be very unpractical for me. I'm content with the Hershel backpack that I've been using, but it doesn't feel entirely right for taking to work. I love these three backpacks pictured above. I'm seeing the Everlane one everywhere now that the company has expanded in San Francisco. The center one from Moop is gorgeous, but not the same value as the Everlane. I don't plan on making any purchases anytime soon, but it doesn't hurt to play make believe once in a while, huh. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.everlane.com/collections/womens-backpacks/products/reverse-denim-snap-backpack-w" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Everlane</a><span style="text-align: center;"> $65 | </span><a href="http://www.moopshop.com/collections/backpacks/products/the-backpack" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Moop</a><span style="text-align: center;"> $197 | </span><a href="http://www.fjallraven.us/products/rucksack-no-21-medium" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Fjallraven</a><span style="text-align: center;"> $175</span></div>
Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7381533569861368060.post-7679284104899074512014-04-09T16:07:00.002-07:002014-04-09T18:41:51.793-07:00As seen in Downtown Berkeley.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWTOcPQ-6BaR_JZb3enKAyhfRQGUUoXHCOLETQk-9GlKFmlxsmBQTai0fVF29zT9YiOCNv0xblW5zjPmHaPOmBsB_EYXErayIAPqN90xB17PKI9Qn5IQubhmVIaxfxgBOePa9u-WhYYx5/s1600/IMG_2224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWTOcPQ-6BaR_JZb3enKAyhfRQGUUoXHCOLETQk-9GlKFmlxsmBQTai0fVF29zT9YiOCNv0xblW5zjPmHaPOmBsB_EYXErayIAPqN90xB17PKI9Qn5IQubhmVIaxfxgBOePa9u-WhYYx5/s1600/IMG_2224.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
It's so refreshing to see things like this go up in Berkeley instead of graffiti. Brings a smile to my face every time I walk past it. It would be great to get some murals up downtown too. Hope everyone's having a good week...at least a better one than I've been having! I'm under the weather.Patriciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830389097061184807noreply@blogger.com0