social hour

 Pie Hole, Pasadena 

 Hiking at Eaton Canyon

Milk + Honey, Artesia
What a Saturday! 

 Somedays, I find myself needing that boost of laughter, quality time, and life sharing moments with friends and my sisters. Today was a good day...short but a sweet and strong reminder that God's placed some amazing people in my life.

Prayer is powerful.
Micah 5:5a "And He will be their peace."

Happy Living is through Thanksgiving

Yes, I'll admit! I am excited to eat Thanksgiving dinner and multiple slices of pumpkin pie with my family tonight. This year, we opted for the huge Costco pumpkin pie but will be cooking everything else!
This time last year, I made this pumpkin pie from scratch and shared it with my flatmates. At first my English friends were hesitant because the idea of pumpkin pie sounded so strange; however, it was so fun watching as they took their first bites and realizes it is delicious!

I'm thankful for this past year- 2 0 1 4 .
There's been ups and downs but each has been a learning experience.
Jesus !
Family & Friends
School
Job and Internship
Living Abroad and Traveling

Calm Before the Storm

 Today I found a new study spot and tried  Earl Grey Latte for the first time. It's a good alternative from coffee to get caffeine.

Thanksgiving is in exactly a week! So excited for the holidays because I'm back in America and can spend it with family.

_

remorse, impending 

grey storm clouds forming a far

want to say something 

Take a Hike

Ever get the urge to escape and surround yourself with some nature?
The air was so crisp and the trees leaves were changing colours so there were so many yellow and orange foilage. I was surprised there was even a river at the trail! It was awesome spending time with my parents and taking lots of cute couple photos for them! haha
I really like the second photo of the mini pinecone, leaf and pine... little reminders of how beautiful the outdoors is.

Go! Wake up early one of these weekends, pack a lunch, drive to a hiking area and enjoy exploring the area/ get some exercise. Don't forget to take water and a hat ! :)

"You are what you do, not what you say you'll do. "

I find myself wishing there were more hours in the day- but then again if I were to be more productive in the hours I do have I wouldn't have this issue ...
Let's try to utilize our time wisely this upcoming week!

xo, S

Tips to Manage a Busy Week

  Cold Brew+ Milk (w/ chicory root and maple syrup), Document 
Sometimes there's so many deadlines to meet that life gets overwhelming.
That happened to me this week- yes I know it is only Wednesday- but I got some invaluable advice that really put things in perspective.

1. Strength Based Approach- Positive thinking and recognizing all the achievements you've accomplished so far! You did so much and will continue do a great job :)

2. Take one things at a time- Yes, there is a lot to do; however, focusing on one project or paper at a time takes a lot of pressure off.

3. Utilize your planner but don't overkill- I'm a planner but realized that you don't need to always list out every single thing. Make sure to jot down what you need to be getting done and of course sticking in some reminders on cute post-its don't hurt!

4. Treat yourself - After working your butt off, take some time to relax.
For myself, I'm looking forward to squeezing in a quick escape to the mountains and hosting Brother's Appreciation with my church sisters this weekend!

Falling for November

     

Yesterday night it felt so nice falling asleep to the sound of pouring rain.
I took this photo after I got out of my car because the roses looked so refreshed... California's been in a drought so any rainfall is good right ?

It's the first of November and I realized there are only two months left until it is 2015.
The past 10 months of 2014 have been unforgettable -  I made resolutions in January haha when I make new ones in December I'll have to see how many I actually accomplished/ kept up with.

Today I spent the day with Esther! So nice catching up over lunch and studying together.