K.E.L.I.A.

August 23, 2013

Sweater: Gap || Circle skirt: Charlotte Russe || Backpack: vintage || Wired headband: DIY || Socks: H&M || Creepers: Nordstrom Rack || Necklace: Nordstrom Rack || Rings: DIY and flea market

Out once again with the main girls during a birthday party. Despite school starting for most, this was our last hurrah as K.E.L.I.A. before the school year really hits hard. Best moments spent gathered together once again. Bonfires, mini photo shoots, girl talks, s'mores. 

After this night, realization hit me. We have all grown up so much. Height, knowledge, experience, hobbies, hair, fashion. But no matter the changes, we grew up together. And that's why such friendship is priceless. 

Redecorating

August 19 - 20, 2013

Finally got around to updating my wall. Before, it hung my eleventh grade photography portfolio. It was time to update my room to how I am as a designer.

Essentially what my wall looks like now (but of course in place of the pieces of paper, are the five framed collages pictured above). Hopefully it captures the essence of my visual aesthetics. After painstaking efforts on the part of my mother who took the time to hammer in the nails and hooks, I got to catch up with high school friends. Lunch was spent with a fellow high school club officer who was going to start her first year of college this year. Updated each other on our lives and chatted about the excitement of college for the first time.

 Dinner was reserved for the high school group for a movie date. Ended up watching The Prestige and Seven while munching on some delicious comfort foods thanks to a good friend who also provided the movies. 

School's Eve

August 18, 2013

Last day before the baby sister starts school again! Went out to the mall after going to church for some family bonding, and got a quick bite to eat. Had to fiercely eye for a table though, since the food court was being remodeled and the amount of tables have significantly decreased.

After that, went over to celebrate a three year old's birthday party. Got to catch up with friends before they started school. Excitement and nerves filled the night. Just reminded me of how much closer my summer is ending, but not for another month.

Top: Ross || Pleather skirt: Cotton On || Purse: vintage || Cross pendant: Mission Santa Barbara

Blessed

August 17, 2013

 Blessed day out with the family. Looking back, this will probably be just "one of those days", but a family outing is time that I cherish every minute of. 

A fun-filled day with loved ones.

[1] Nordstrom Rack - ended up finding a treasure piece to my wardrobe

[2] Ikea - ended up spending most of our time on lunch than on browsing

[3] Mall - birthday gift shopping, but ended up (thanks to my sister's watchful eye) with a great knit sweater

[4] Movies - watched Jobs ; actually enjoyed most of the movie, despite most of it being fictitious, for its focus on innovation, creativity, ambition, and aspirations

                  - after the movie, wandered around the theater a bit, and ended up leaving with free goodies, such as Smurf balloons, a We're the Millers window sticker, and a Jobs promotional poster

Can not wait to see JGL's directorial debut in his newest film Don Jon. Saw the trailer, and am absolutely excited to see how he acts out this eccentric character.

Pop of Blue Pop of Pink

August 15, 2013

Dress: H&M || Cardigan: H&M (borrowed from sister) || Purse: vintage || Midi rings: DIY

After a quiet night out from church, came back to lounge in my PJs and relax in bed with a movie. This night, I was amazed by young Leonardo Dicaprio's raw talent in "This Boy's Life". This summer has been all about watching as many movies on Netflix as I can before school starts. Definitely was able to get some titles crossed off my list, but still more to go. 

Disney Tease

August 13-14, 2013

Impromptu Family Road Trip: Anaheim 

With the news of my mom's cousin's husband passing away, there was no hesitation for our family to head over to Anaheim to console the family. After paying our respects during the viewing Tuesday afternoon and having dinner with the family early on in the evening, the night was still young when we said our goodbyes to my mother's relatives. 

After all, we were in Anaheim, so our family decided to take advantage of this opportunity and explored Downtown Disney. Fortunately for us we were able to catch the fireworks display at the entrance between California Adventure and Disneyland. Sneak preview for what is planned for our Christmas vacation. Those few hours downtown was fun, but like all great things, the night must come to an end. So after exploring the Disneyland Hotel next door, it was back to our hotel.

The next morning was my uncle's funeral. I only have the faintest memories of him, but of the ones I am able to hold on to, he was a friendly, funny, kind man who seemed to love his family dearly. After hearing how loved he was by family and friends, it made me realize the importance of life and love. We are only put on this world for a certain amount of time, so we should make sure we spend that time well. Not focused on material items, virtual lives, careers, or money, but on family, friends, life, love. I will be going back to college in about a month, so I hope to spend the remaining time wisely while I am at home with my family.