Reflections

It's been a good year, 2012. I've got to say this has been the best one yet. 

Why?

A lot has happened. I'm halfway through nursing school and am loving where my new career will take me. I got married to the love of my life and we are building a happy home together. I've gotten more organized - I make it a habit to clean out my closets regularly and either donate or throw away things I don't wear. It's so refreshing to get rid of old clothes, plus it keeps me aware of what's in my closet so that I utilize things better. I turned 25. With age comes wisdom. I've got a long way to go, but it's incredible to look back and see how far I've come and what has changed. I've mellowed out. I used to be a little spitfire and while I'll never be able to shake the temper that comes with being a redhead, I've learned to not let the little things bother me.

In short, I've never been happier.

Bring it, 2013!

A Few Of My Favorite Things

1. The Portland Juice Press. This joint recently opened in SE Portland and I've been going as often as my wallet allows me. There's just something about a fresh squeezed juice that's so refreshing. This pear and ginger concoction was seriously delicious

2. Starbucks red cups. I've tried to stay away. Living in Portland, with all the local coffee houses and Stumptown coffee abundantly flowing, it's a cardinal sin to go to Starbucks. But let's be honest, their seasonal drinks are just to die for. I'm partial to a chai eggnog (not on the menu - order one and you'll be hooked). Recently, I took my lil guy through with me and the barista's were so charmed with him they gave him a short cup full of whipped cream.

3. Fun books about your city. While I was perusing a local bakery before brunch (I know) I found this cute book called 100 Best Places to Stuff Your Faces chock full of the greatest restaurants, food carts, and coffee houses in Portland. Skimming through, I noticed several restaurants my husband and I have either been to, or put on our list to visit, so I knew I had to buy it. We break it out when we have guests in town.

4. Family time. My mom, brother, aunt and cousin came up to visit me a while back and we had a blast! We did some Christmas shopping, eating, and spent some quality family time together. We always enjoy an evening chatting and sipping champagne just the two of us. Words can't describe how much I love her!

NastyGal Wish List

Some of the stuff on NastyGal is a little over the top for me, but they have some really cute dresses that I think would be great for holiday parties this year. Check it out!

I think the teal one may need a permanent spot in my closet...