andiekp

Refreshed

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 02:10:00 +0000

Sometimes we lose our way, and through it we find something unexpected about ourselves. My twenties have felt like a time of feeling lost, and then slowly realizing things about myself that maybe only those experiences could lead to.

The last time I posted here was just under three years ago. I had moved to Austin and started what felt like my first 'real' job (teaching is a real job, too, overseas or not, but the experience felt like a strange extension of college for me - more on that another day). I'd also just bought a house, and for the first time, I was dealing with those real 'adult' issues of money, taxes, work/life balance.

I lost my way a little, and my work/life balance swayed way off course with a heavy favouring of work. I wanted to write here, but I was leaving work drained and uninspired. I didn't even see it happening, until I reached a burnout. I was unsatisfied at work, but loved the people, which left me conflicted on whether it was time to move on.

In the end, it turned out it was time for a change and a series of coincidences led me to a new position, still in Austin. Interestingly, as the new position requires less writing of long emails, I find I miss just writing.

So, I'm going to write and post here as I feel like, about what I feel like. After all, this my little corner of the internet, and I love looking back at things I've written in the past here (and elsewhere, depending how far back I go). It's fun to see how my views, opinions, and personality change and stay the same.

KonMari books; pretty and practical

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 01:33:00 +0000

I swore to myself I would not buy the companion book to The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. How many books do I need on tidying? After having moved four times in the past year and a half or so, I've cleared all my unnecessary objects. The first move in particular forced me to get rid of a ton of stuff, including around 300 odd books (which I should mention I miss terribly. I never realized that books are my favourite and most comforting decor items, until they were gone).

There's just something about Marie Kondo's complete love of organizing, useful tips, and adorable book designs that I'm weak to. The moment I saw the little pictures, I knew I had to buy it. That said, as I'm reading this one, I feel like I'm more likely to use it in the future. The layout and images make an easy (adorable) reference guide that you can look back on and find what you need without much of a search.

Handbag confidential 02: Louis Vuitton

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 02:17:00 +0000

Welcome to the second handbag confidential post, click to read the first.

For years now I've admired Louis Vuitton bags. To me, they are a timeless classic and can't go out of style. Although, I'm not a fan of the Damier Azur. I now own both of the styles I had always wished for, and in the patterns I wanted most. Both are special to me and have happy memories attached. Today I am going to focus on the first one I got, my Damier Speedy 25, which I bought in 2012. We've been on a few exciting journeys since then.

I bought this bag while on vacation in Paris with my brother. In the months leading up to the trip I saved, and saved because the cost was (is?) significantly less there. Unfortunately, I was a bit short when we left. I was disappointed, but what can you do? I still had an exciting trip to look forward to!

Then, on one of our last days, my dad called and said he'd help out with the remaining amount. I feel I should mention, this trip came around the time of a lot of big changes in our family, and just after some tragedies.

The next day, my brother and I walked to Champs-Élysées to poke around and go to the Louis Vuitton flagship store. I still remember how nervously excited I was to go. The store is huge, which intimidated me. It's gorgeous and feels a bit like a mini LV museum. Everything went smoothly, though, and I left with my bag. I was in a happy little bubble, floating back to the hotel.

Since then, it has become a staple among my bags, and has come with me to Korea both times, as well as several vacations, outside of its everyday use. I've added a Gucci charm from my dad (who received it as a gift from Gucci at his last job), and always think of that day and that trip when I use it.

Books: Kate Morton, The Lake House

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 23:16:00 +0000

The excitement for this one was real. I absolutely love Kate Morton's books, she is amazing at blending past and present, and keeping you hooked trying to figure out how everything connects. The Lake House was no exception. I couldn't put it down and had to know what happened. I loved the characters and the story, it was just...so, so good. (5/5)

"A missing child…
June 1933, and the Edevane family’s country house, Loeanneth, is polished and gleaming, ready for the much-anticipated Midsummer Eve party. Alice Edevane, sixteen years old and a budding writer, is especially excited. Not only has she worked out the perfect twist for her novel, she’s also fallen helplessly in love with someone she shouldn’t. But by the time midnight strikes and fireworks light up the night skies, the Edevane family will have suffered a loss so great that they leave Loeanneth forever.

An abandoned house…
Seventy years later, after a particularly troubling case Sadie Sparrow is sent on an enforced break from her job with the Metropolitan Police. Sadie retreats to her beloved grandfather’s cottage in Cornwall but soon finds herself at a loose end. Until one day, she stumbles upon an abandoned house surrounded by overgrown gardens and dense woods, and learns the story of a baby boy who disappeared without a trace.

An unsolved mystery…
Meanwhile, in the attic writing room of her elegant Hampstead home, the formidable Alice Edevane, now an old lady, leads a life as neatly plotted as the bestselling detective novels she writes. Until a young police detective starts asking questions about her family’s past, seeking to resurrect the complex tangle of secrets Alice has spent her life trying to escape…" (katemorton.com)

The Sunday Post 03

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 21:16:00 +0000

I didn't used to make any sort of resolutions or goals for myself at the new year. However, for some reason in the past few years I always find the first few days of January a time when I think about my life and things I maybe want to change, stop altogether, or start afresh.

In 2016 I will...

...not be participating in Goodreads Reading Challenge. This became a constant competition for me last year. I felt as though I had to read more, faster, rather than just enjoy a good book for however long I felt like reading it.

...start volunteering at least bi-weekly. The combination of starting a new job and moving in the past couple months meant that I didn't volunteer at all in November and December. I always have a ton of fun with the awesome staff, volunteers, and kitties.

...work out at least once a week, and stretch everyday. I can't believe how tight all of my muscles feel after two months of not stretching. Also, I hate working out. So, I'm hoping this will be more achievable for the time being. I can be realistic, I won't work out everyday, it's a proven fact.

...blog more. Once again the combination of moving and starting a new job in the past two months impacted the blog. I had a short period before that where I felt like I was just starting to hit a groove with blogging. I'd like to see how far I can take some of the unfinished plans from that time period.

...try to allow for more photos of myself. I am going to look back as an old woman and think I was ridiculous for never taking, or allowing others to take, photos of me.

...eat healthier! I actually was doing really well with this after coming back to the States, before moving out on my own.

...have a little pamper time each week. This could be running a bath, painting my nails, etc.

So, that's some of my resolutions for the year, are you a resolution maker?

Farewell 2015, it's been amazing

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 01 Jan 2016 04:47:00 +0000

This year was surprising in so many amazing ways. I never could have predicted that this year's highlights would contain half of the things it does.

In 2015 I...

...started the year as a teacher in Korea. I made amazing friends and loved going into Seoul almost every weekend to meet up with them. I also learned quite a bit through my job.

...moved to Austin, a place I NEVER thought I would live.

...finally started volunteering at an animal shelter after years of saying I wanted to, but not following through.

...adopted Mochi and Pekoe! I seriously adore these kittens, they are just the sweetest pair of kitties. Adopting two was definitely not my plan going into adopting Mochi, but I couldn't resist her only brother. So, Pekoe joined us three days later, and I couldn't be happier.

They've adjusted to the new place just fine ^^

...got my first job in the US, and I'm loving it, which would probably surprise you if you knew what it is.

...bought a house! I'm still adjusting to the fact that I actually own this place. I keep forgetting. I feel like as it gets more furnished and decorated (and some non-white paint), it will feel more 'mine'.

...finished 94 books. That's roughly 40 more than I usually read in a year. Did I do anything else in my free time?

Those are a few of my biggest highlights from the year, stay tuned for "goals" or "resolutions" for 2016, coming in the next couple days!

What were some of your 2015 highlights? ^^

The Sunday Post 02

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 03:01:00 +0000

I've moved into my house! It's all very exciting, and I'm loving it so far. My commute is a bit shorter, the cats have plenty of room to run and go crazy. I have a walk-in closet... Mostly, I just have plenty of exciting plans and ideas to complete the space over the next year.

Our office Christmas party was this past Saturday, and I was actually surprised how fun it was. I thought there was no way I would stay the whole time, but I did. I'm still trying to learn a balance between work and my personal life, but it's difficult. I'll get to a place that's at least a bit better than now, soon-ish.

Mochi and Pekoe are now 7 months old and are almost full-grown cats. They've transitioned to the move pretty well, although the first couple days saw two terrified kitties hiding in my closet.

Learning to "adult"

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 01:43:00 +0000

Cutting through the Capitol grounds to get back to my car from the office

This month has become an exciting, life-changing one. I started my first full-time job in the US, and it's far closer to my career interests than my previous. It's different in so many ways from teaching in Korea, but somehow my first week has been significantly easier. Everyone has been awesome so far, and the company has a sort-of cool, Austin-chill vibe. Working downtown means a longer commute, but it's fun being there five days a week!

Speaking of Austin, it's official, I'm staying here for the foreseeable future. I am buying a house! How it all came to be is a long story, and a series of events (unfortunate for some, but fortunate for me!). It's brand new and absolutely adorable. The moment I walked in, I was in love. It's light and bright, and just has a happy feel. The cats and I move in next month. It's in area I wouldn't have considered, but the house is just so, so perfect. I'm excited to be able to shop for it and decorate. The level of excitement I feel right now is unreal. I can't think of the last time I was in such a happy, content place.

My future kitchen, what?!

October in Books

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 01:48:00 +0000

First-Time-Reads

The Driver's Clothes Lie Empty: (Vandela Vida) 2/5
A woman travels to Casablanca and is robbed of all her money and ID. Knowing that she won't get her possessions back, she feels liberated by her new freedom to be anyone she chooses. She becomes a stand-in for a famous actress and finds herself inhabiting the actress's skin off-set too.
This book was such a disappointment! It had such potential with the story, but the author chose to write it in a second person narrative ("you"). I absolutely hated that aspect, it threw me off, and rather than pulling me into the emotions of the story, it pushed me further away. However, if you don't mind books in this format, you may enjoy it quite a bit!

Emma: (Jane Austen) 5/5
Emma Woodhouse is content with her life and sees little reason to marry. However, she greatly enjoys acting as a matchmaker to those around her. When Harriet Smith comes to town, Emma takes her under wing an plans a match.
Emma is tied with Pride & Prejudice for my favourite Jane Austen. I'm surprised I never read the book before, seeing as I love other adaptations so much (Clueless, anyone?).

The Princess Bride: (William Goldman) 1/5
Goldman claims that his father told him only the good parts of The Princess Bride and published this version, which contains only the "good parts." There is narrative sprinkled between bits of the story by Goldman about why he has taken a part out, etc, etc.
I know this is a "classic" for some, but I didn't enjoy it at all. I do like the movie, though.

The Golem and the Jinni: (Helene Wecker) 3/5
Chava is a golem, and Ahmad is a Jinni. Through seperate circumstances they are both brought to NYC. The two become an unlikely set of friends, who are seperated after the incidents of a terrifying night. However, they are brought back together by a powerful threat, which will change their fates.
I was so excited to start this, but it just dragged in the beginning. Maybe I lost interest? I'm not sure, but it does pick up later on.

The Murder at the Vicarage: (Agatha Christie) 4/5
The first of the Miss Marple books. Colonel Protheroe is found shot dead in the parson's study, after the clergyman had threatened him with a knife. But as Miss Marple soon discovers, the whole village could have had a motice to kill the colonel.
This book was like a combination of two of my favourite things; Poirot novels and "Murder, She Wrote." I will most definitely be looking to read all of the Miss Marple books.

Girl Online on Tour: (Zoe Sugg, aka Zoella) 3/5
Penny joins her rockstar boyfriend, Noah, and his band for their European tour. Looking forward to spending time with him, she is disappointed that his schedule is jam packed, and he doesn't have the time to do the things he promised they would. Penny struggles with missing her friends, family, and her blog, which she took "offline."
I found this one to be an improvement from the first one. There's a charming quality to this book, and it's a fun, light read.

The Sword of Summer: (Rick Riordan) 2/5
Magnus Chase has lived on the streets of Boston since his mother's death. A man, whom his mother described as dangerous tells him the impossible, he is the son of a Norse god. Magnus is forced to make a fatal decision between his own safety and the lives of several hundred innocents.
Riordan's books are a guilty pleasure of mine, and I love the Percy Jackson series. Riordan is excellent at making mythology modern, fun, and digestable. That said, he is not great at characterization. His characters from series to series, are incredibly similar in every way. Same people, different names, different powers. Or, so it feels.

Where'd You Go, Bernadette: (Maria Semple) 5/5
Told through 15-year-old Bee, this story is of her trying to find her bother after her disappearance. Along the way Bee learns more than she ever knew about her mother, including the secret past that Bernadette has been hiding for decades.
LOVED this! The quirky characters and scenarios are often hilarious, and the story is completely gripping.

The Body in the Library: (Agatha Christie) 4/5
The Bantrys wake to find the body of an unknown young woman, dressed and made up for a party, in their library. The Bantrys invite Miss Marple in to help solve the mystery.
Just as entertaining as the first, its set in the same little town and re-introduces many of the characters, as well as some new ones. Also the intro from Christie on a having a body in the library is quite interesting.

Re-Reads
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince: (J.K. Rowling) 5/5
I've spoken enough on my love of the HP books, haven't I? ^. ~

Wildwood Dancing, Cybele's Secret: (Juliet Marillier) 3/5
Five sisters have been making trips into the Other Kingdom every the full moon. The first book follows Jena, the second eldest sister, at their home in Transylvania as the eldest sister falls in love with a potentially dangerous member of the Other Kingdom. The second, follows Paula, the intellectual of the sisters, as she accompanies their father on a business trip to Istanbul to buy a pagan artifact.
I remember these as being so much better! They have some of the most gorgeous covers, but the stories are just... blah. They're forgettable, with rather dull characters.

Happy Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 20:06:00 +0000

May your day be spooktacular!
The cats and I are just about to snuggle down and watch Hocus Pocus. Best Halloween movie, hands down (in my opinion, but I don't like scary films!). New post coming up tomorrow ^^

7 of my book favourites

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 00:36:00 +0000

As any proper book nerd knows, choosing one is hard/impossible. However, there are some standouts for me. This list is subject to change, and maybe in the future I will update it. We shall see.

Author: Agatha Christie
Christie's books are a guilty pleasure of mine, whenever I want a book treat, or am unsure what to read, hers are sure to please. I LOVE the Poirot mysteries, and have just started the first of the Miss Marple books.

Series: The Harry Potter books (J.K. Rowling)
I do believe I re-read these every single year. They helped define my middle and high school years. I don't think I will ever tire of them, and I doubt they will move from this spot.

Stand Alone: The Thirteenth Tale (Diane Setterfield)
I still can't explain what it is about this book that I love so much. Everything about it draws me in, and even when I reread it, I remember how I felt the first time I read it. It's about time to seek it out again...

Movie Adaptation: The Devil Wears Prada (Lauren Weisberger)
I liked the book, but didn't love it. The movie, however, I love. The clothes, Meryl Streep (perfection), this movie is my favourite adaption of a book.

Classic: Emma, Pride & Prejudice (Jane Austen)
It's a tie for these two, but I figured that was okay since the author is the same. I have always loved both stories and all their adaptations, both in print and film.

Children's: Madeline (Ludwig Bemelmans)
I adored these books as a child, and I still have the anthology on my shelves. I could probably still recite the start from memory.

Coffee Table: Fairie-ality (The House of Ellwand)
This book was a gift when I was in high school from my aunt. I love it, the witty writing, the gorgeous fairy outfit creations. Whenever I feel a bit down, a flip through this book always does the trick of picking my spirits back up.

This would work quite well as a book tag, eh? ;)

Autumn foliage at Gyeongbokgung

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 14 Oct 2015 01:28:00 +0000

It seems I never posted these photos last year, and since I'm missing proper autumn, I figured I would post a few of them now. These were taken roughly a year ago when I took a friend for her first (my third!) trip to Gyeongbokgung. I love walking around the palace, and the colours were stunning.

Books: The Knockoff

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 03:06:00 +0000

"The Knockoff is the story of Imogen Tate, editor in chief of Glossy Magazine, who discovers her twenty-something former assistant Eve Morton plotting to knock her off her pedestal, take over her job, and reduce the magazine to an app."

I initially wanted to read this one because everyone seemed to herald it the new Devil Wears Prada, but with issues currently faced by the magazine and fashion industries. I had high expectations going into this book, but I was a bit disappointed in it.

Imogen is woefully out of touch, so much so that it felt unbelievable. There is no way someone in her position could make it to 2015 without being able to read her emails. I've met and know a few people who are in high positions, and all of them have adapted with the times. Especially those in news related fields. As such, I felt annoyed by Imogen initially, thankfully she adapts and learns. It just seems like she should have experienced this long before this year.

Eve, on the other hand, is a b****. I despised her character. She was portrayed as every stereotype of twenty-somethings. She's self absorbed, entitled, and completely detached from reality thanks to her obsession with social media. This book reads like a battle between the ages, who's right? The tech-savvy newcomer, or the experienced editor?

I ultimately found this book lacked depth, but it's an easy, beach-type read. If you are looking for a fashion novel, definitely pick up The Devil Wears Prada over this one.

The Sunday Post 01

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 00:18:00 +0000

First up, this week on Instagram: (a) I went to Cirque du Soleil for the first time last weekend, see more about it below. (b) My family and I went out for dinner on Thurs. to the nearby Nutty Brown Cafe. This photo just screams Texas to me, am I alone in that? (c) Sunday's are for Netflix marathons, and Mochi's got the controls.

Cirque du Soleil's Kooza came to Austin, and my friends got tickets to go. Now, I've never been to one of their shows. So, I was ridiculously excited for it. The show was at the Circuit of the Americas, in a tent set up in one of the parking lots. Having never been out there before, I found the venue pretty cool, too. Especially hearing the race cars going round the track while we were parking.

The cats are 5 months old! How time flies, and how quickly they grow. Both have remained sweet and well behaved, so I'm happy and feel lucky to have such sweet kitties around. As I type this, Mochi is playing with my hoodie, and Pekoe is half draped across my lap. Here's Pekoe trying (and failing) to catch his whiskers. He fell of the desk right after.
How amazing and adorable is this video of Hogwarts being built from the book pages?

Fashion: Transitioning from hot to (very) warm

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 01:22:00 +0000

Well, autumn seems to have come to Austin. The weather has gone from hot (100+) and humid, to low humidity and, slightly, cooler weather (90s). Mentally, I am in full-autumn mode, I want to be wearing sweaters, or light jackets, jeans, etc. these days.

This is my first time living in an area that isn't starting to get properly cold at this point, so I've been figuring out ways to mix my fall favourites with the summer-like heat.

Light sweaters and shorts seem to be my favourite so far, so here's a look similar to what I've been wearing.

151009 by andiekp13 featuring a white sweater

Autumn candle haul (Bath & Body Works)

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 19:03:00 +0000

Kittens be everywhere, Mochi recently learned how to jump up here.

It feels as though Bath & Body Works' candles have become a real thing in the past couple years. It feels cliche to say, but I love their autumn scents. I also like a couple of their Christmas ones, and the Lavender Vanilla one. However, their spring and summer scents tend to give me a headache, please tell me I'm not the only one?

Anyway, recently they had a couple different candle sales, and I decided to pick up a few of my favourites.

Autumn - "Fall into the season with notes of bright red apple, cedarwood & fresh balsam."
I bought this one in both the medium-size candle sale, and the three-wick candle sale. Fortunately, I adore it for it's fresh, crisp, and clean scent.

Sweater Weather - "Fall's here! Grab your cable knit and enjoy a mix of eucalyptus, juniper berry & fresh sage."
This is a new scent for me. I was partially drawn in by the packaging, How cute is that squirrel? There's a piece of plastic around the top that reads, "I'm nuts for you!" Very cute. It's another fresh and clean, rather than warm, autumn scent.

Leaves - "Celebrate fall foliage with a rich blend of golden nectar, red apple & spiced berries."
The classic, the cult-fave candle. I've been purchasing this candle every year for the past few, and it's probably my all-time favourite candle scent. This, to me, is autumn in a jar. It's a crisp and warm scent that I just can't get enough of.

Pumpkin Carving - "The fun of jack-o-lanterns, captured in a blend of pumpkin, brown sugar & nutmeg."
I absolutely bought this for its adorable packaging. It was also on sale and pushed my total into the free shipping, but cost less than shipping. I'm glad it's just a mini, as I'm not sure about the scent. I haven't burnt it yet (I'm saving it for the week of Halloween), but it's a very strong, spicy scent. Not really my type...

September in books

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 23:17:00 +0000

First-Time-Reads

Why Not Me?: (Mindy Kaling) 5/5
Mindy Kaling's second book is just as amazing and hilarious as her first, I LOVED her stories, wisdom, and jokes.

Go Set a Watchman: (Harper Lee) 5/5
The controversial, and much-debated sequel to "To Kill a Mockingbird," you can read my thoughts in this post.

Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight: (Sarah J. Maas) 4/5, 5/5
One of those absolutely addicting teen-fantasy series. This one revolves around an 18-year-old assassin, who is released by the prince to be his contestant to be the King's assassin. It's actually decent, and the second book was better than the first. I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series.

The Knockoff: (Lucy Sykes & Jo Piazza) 4/5
I'm planning to do a review of this book next week, so look out for the post, which I will link here once it's up.

Re-Reads

Saving Fish From Drowning: (Amy Tan) 4/5
Art collector Bibi Chen planned a trip through China and Myanmar over Christmas with a group of her friends. However, after she is mysteriously killed, they go on the journey without her and end up disappearing in Myanmar.
I love this book, I love the sassy narrator, and the strange group of, albeit foolish, travelers.

PS, I Love You: (Cecelia Ahern) 3/5
After Holly's husband Gerry dies of cancer, Holly receives a letter a month to help her get her life back on track. Generally speaking I stand by the sentiment that "the book is always better than the movie." Except for a few cases, of which this is one. I just prefer the movie.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix: (J.K. Rowling) 5/5
Continuing my read-a-Harry-Potter-book-a-month fun. This is the book I like the least, though. I'm not sure I could pick a favourite. I also give 5/5 as a rating for the HP books because I love them, and probably always will.

I found the next few books in a box of things from when I was a kid. I loved these back when I first read them, but haven't picked them up since. I wondered what I would think of them as an adult.

The Sky is Falling, Looking at the Moon, The Lights Go On Again: (Kit Pearson) 5/5, 5/5, 4/5
This series follows a brother and sister from a small town in England as war evacuees during WWII. Gavin and Norah are evacuated to live with an older woman, who lost her son in the WWI, and her daughter in Toronto. The first two books are from Norah's perspective, and the third is from Gavin's. I loved this series as a kid, and actually even now as an adult I love it.

The Moons of Madeleine: (Joan Clark) 3/5
Mad travels to visit her cousin in Calgary, and finds her much changed. Upset and feeling alone she meets a mysterious girl, who introduces her to the goddesses of the moon. I was obsessed with this book for some reason when I was really, really little. Before I could read it little. I vaguely remember being disappointed when I finally did read it, and I still think it sounds more interesting than it is.

A Handful of Time: (Kit Pearson) 4/5
While visiting her family's cottage with her aunt, uncle, and cousins, Patricia finds a stopwatch in the boathouse. When she goes to start it, she is mysteriously transported back in time. Through the watch she is able to see her mother, Ruth, as a teenager. This is one of those books that has stuck with me. I have never quite forgotten it, which is surprising given how much I read, and how many I forget when I go back to re-read them.

September Favourites

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 03 Oct 2015 19:31:00 +0000

Beauty: Clinique Pop Lipsticks in Nude Pop and Melon Pop. These have become my go-to lip products. Both are wearable shades, moisturizing, and long-lasting. In Nude Pop, I have finally found my perfect MLBB colour. Melon Pop falls into my favourite orange-coral lip colour, but in a more natural shade.

Book: Why Not Me? Mindy Kaling. I LOVED this book and flew through it. Kaling has a relaxed writing style, which makes it feel a bit like reading a letter from a friend. Also, she is hilarious and all-around awesome.

Song: I'm So Sexy 댄싱게놈 JYP & 유재석. I find myself singing this more than I'd like to admit, it's mega catchy.

TV Show: How to Get Away with Murder. This show is addicting, I was finally able to catch up after Netflix added season 1. I was hooked instantly and marathoned the whole thing over a few days, which worked out, as I was able to start this season on time.

Misc.: I love my Plum Paper Planner, it's helped me stay organized, and I love spending time decorating each week. Of course, the cat's are favourites, too. Pekoe couldn't resist jumping in as I took the photo. Look out for Mochi on Weds.

Wednesday Rambles: Autumn

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:46:00 +0000

Autumn is my favourite time of year, I love the crisp weather, I love sweaters, and it's probably the time of year I am most outdoorsy.

I am going to miss these colours this year

So, since autumn officially started a week ago, here are some of my favourite things:

Candles ~ I LOVE the autumn scents that come out. My particular favourites that I re-purchase every year are Bath & Bodyworks' "Autumn" and "Leaves."

Walking/hiking ~ I basically don't go for walks, and especially not hikes, all summer. Heat and I are on bad terms. However, once the cooler weather starts, I tend to go for walks everyday, and hikes when I can.

Pumpkin ~ Why is this such a thing now?? I ~~hate~~ dislike pumpkin spice lattes, but pumpkin baked goods? Delicious, how come it now feels wrong to have them any other time of year? (I do anyway, but it's less common to see items for sale other times of the year.) We need to move past this.

Foliage ~ Everything is so beautiful, isn't it? This is my first year living in a place that doesn't experience a true autumn, and I am unsure how I feel about it (ask me in winter). It's gone from 100s to 90s here, hardly a change. Yet it feels like one, which just goes to show that hot and cold are situational.

TV Shows ~ Finally the dry spell of crummy summer TV is over. My lineup, so far:

How to Get Away with Murder
Scream Queens
Project Runway
Doctor Who

Book Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:10:00 +0000

Book shopping is the best shopping, isn't it?

The Driver's Clothes Lie Empty ~ Vendela Vida
A woman travels to Casablanca and is robbed of all her money and ID. Knowing that she won't get her possessions back, she feels liberated by her new freedom to be anyone she chooses. She becomes a stand-in for a famous actress and finds herself inhabiting the actress's skin off-set too.
I picked this one up because of the cover and was instantly hooked by the inside flap. I've summed it up quickly here.

Where'd You Go Bernadette? ~ Maria Semple
Told through 15-year-old Bee, this story is of her trying to find her bother after her disappearance. Along the way Bee learns more than she ever knew about her mother, including the secret past that Bernadette has been hiding for decades.
This is one of those books I constantly see, pick up, and leave without. After reading about it in a Buzzfeed list, I decided to actually get it this time when I picked it up.

The Murder at the Vicarage ~ Agatha Christie
The first of the Miss Marple books. Colonel Protheroe is found shot dead in the parson's study, after the clergyman had threatened him with a knife. But as Miss Marple soon discovers, the whole village could have had a motice to kill the colonel.
Agatha Christie is the person I would pick as my favourite author. This is the first Miss Marple book I'll be reading, but I love the Poirot mysteries. I just need to figure out which ones I've actually read, before I consider buying another.

Why Not Me? ~ Mindy Kaling
Further essays and stories after her first book, "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?"
I LOVED her first book and loved this one just as much. Funny, relatable, and all around awesome.

Friday Fashion: OotD & Modcloth's Style Surprise

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 21:48:00 +0000

On Weds. I received the dress and apparel item from respective categories of Modcloth's Style Surprise. Last time, I got a gorgeous dress and a cool pair of boots. So, I was feeling optimistic as I added the items to my cart this time.

For those who aren't as obsessed with Modcloth as I am, the Style Surprise is set up by category, and you choose your size to receive a surprise item at a discounted price. This time it was $20 for dresses, and $15 for apparel.

The top I got through the apparel option is awesome. It's not a colour I would normally choose, but I find myself liking it. It's loose, light, and soft, but does need a cami underneath. On Thurs. I wore it with a pair of distressed jean shorts from Target, my Bonlook Skunkboy glasses, a Kate Spade bag, and a pair of black flats from Modcloth (not pictured).

The dress was a disappointment, it's cheaply made and almost completely see-through. A quick search of the brand led to the discovery that Nordstrom Rack sells their dresses for around $14-$16, so I'm also feeling a bit gypped. I've cut my losses, and it's already been added to our "to donate" pile.

Books: Go Set a Watchman

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 23:00:00 +0000

I was hesitant to read the new Harper Lee book due to the controversy around its publication, but after receiving it as a gift, my curiosity won out.

*Potential SPOILERS ahead*

First off, I did reread "To Kill a Mockingbird" prior to reading "Go Set a Watchman." I originally read "To Kill a Mockingbird" in grade eight and couldn't remember specific details, just the feeling of loving it. I do still like it now, as an adult.

First off, I actually appreciated and liked the way Atticus is portrayed in "Go Set a Watchman." Rather than viewing it as a childhood saviour being torn down, I thought this book humanized him. In rereading "To Kill a Mockingbird," I found Atticus almost too perfect. He felt more like a character than a human. Perhaps it was Scout's childhood adoration that gives the impression, perhaps it's that he never seems to portray anything apart from calm and good.

Despite reading in several articles that he turns into a bitter old racist in the new book, I didn't find that to be true. He does, undeniably, hold racist views in the newer book. However, his personality is still much the same, and his responses to Jean Louise yelling at him made me tear up a bit. He comes across as an old man so set in his ways that he can't see past them.

That feeling Jean Louise experiences of realizing her father is human, and not the perfect god-like character of her childhood, is one I think most can relate to. Part of growing up is learning that your parents are far from perfect, and you don't agree with all of their opinions.

With that in mind, I would say both books are coming-of-age stories, just at different stages of that ambiguous term for growing up.

Handbag confidential 01: Elie Tahari

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 23:06:00 +0000

I LOVE handbags, I am a firm believer that a good handbag instantly upgrades most outfits. Handbags are the only area in my wardrobe I save up and "splurge" on. As such, each bag has a story to its purchase that I remember whenever I wear it. I remember reading Hey Claire's Closet Confidential posts and loving the idea. So, I'm going to take inspiration from it and do the same with my handbags.

The bag, and my outfit with it today

First up is my Elie Tahari bag. I've had this one for four years now. I was first introduced to the designer when Elle Magazine took my dad and I to, and backstage, his fashion week show in February of 2011. After browsing around his website, and snooping in Lord & Taylor, I fell in love with this bag. I decided to ask my dad to split the cost with me for my birthday that April.

Initially I rarely used it. I was terrified of staining or damaging the leather in anyway. It is the softest leather I've ever felt, and the colour makes it a prime target for any number of disasters. That said, after it did get its first stain, I was oddly relieved and started using it regularly.

It's now my favourite bag for a more relaxed look and has become a go-to for me. It holds a ton and matches everything, and it hasn't gained anymore damage since that first stain. So, clearly it's sturdier than I gave it credit for.

Kittens, books, & life lately

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 00:42:00 +0000

- Mochi and Pekoe continue to be absolutely adorable and sweet, but my gosh, have they grown. Both were just over two pounds when I got them and are now close to seven. Pekoe in particular, he now has giant paws and quite a big noggin. Mochi remains my delicate little lady.

- August was a great reading month for me, and I somehow managed to read 13 books (one is not pictured. The Selection series takes the spot of hardest to put down. However, the one I most enjoyed was probably "Saint Anything" by Sarah Dessen. In an effort to save money, I've been re-reading quite a bit recently. It seems I'm going to run out of books to do that with soon. My Dad gave me "To Kill a Mocking Bird," which I haven't read since grade eight, and "Go Set a Watchman," which I'm halfway through and will most likely post about on Monday.


All up for adoption! My pal Dafney sitting on my lap (left)

- Planning seems to have become trendy recently, and I'm loving it. I've always been a big paper planner fan, using one consistently since middle school. Maybe I'll share some of my spreads on here. I purchased one from Plum Paper back in June. It's the first I've ever had with a vertical layout, and I am loving it!

- I've been volunteering once a week at Austin Pets Alive!, where I adopted my munchkins from. If you are in the Austin area and are looking for a kitten or cat, definitely consider adopting from them. There are so many sweeties in there. Dafney, a 4-month-old tabby manx, is probably my favourite kitten there, and I always make time to hang out with her in the play room.

Books: The Night Garden

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 20:16:00 +0000

There were two reasons I decided to give The Night Garden by Lisa Van Allen a try. The first was that it was on sale for cheap on the nook, and the second was that it was recommended for fans of Sarah Addison Allen's books. I am a HUGE fan of Addison Allen's books. They always leave me feeling happy whenever I read them.

First off there are similarities, both books deal with women who seem to have a magic gift with plants. I do think that Van Allen's character had a slightly darker storyline and parts definitely reminded me strongly of Sleeping Beauty.

That said, this book didn't capture me the same way that Addison Allen's do. It fell flat, and I could predict the outcome. The Night Garden's descriptions lacked the prose of Addison Allen's books. I didn't feel like I'd entered this different viewpoint of a place in The Night Garden.

That said, I did enjoy it as a quick, easy read. If you are looking for garden-magic, fairytale-like story, I highly recommend Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen.