Photo Sunday: Tom and Jerry

Hello all!

Anyone else totally in the Christmas spirit? I love the holidays and I am so pumped.
This weekend was my grandpa's birthday, so I got to go up and hangout with my family all day Saturday. We ate and drank a lot.

One of the big holiday tradition drinks my family makes is called a Tom and Jerry. From what I gathered, it is whipped eggs, warm milk, and a shot of rum.

I think they taste like Christmas. Very alcohol-y Christmas. Also, that napkin says group therapy and has a bunch of wine glasses. My family is super classy.

Does your family have any special holiday foods or drinks? Do you know why a Tom and Jerry is named that? I have no idea.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Etsy is the Best

Hello all! Sorry I've been getting really behind on posts. I'm the worst.
With the holidays coming up (god I have no money anymore) and some big changes on the horizon (I'll let you know when it is 100% sure), I  have been a bit scatterbrained.

I'm sorry.

Today's post has to do with all my holiday shopping. ETSY! I adore Etsy. I find the best stuff there, and the personal touch is the greatest.

Look at those charms! So cute. I ordered a present from Skeletal Dropkick for Christmas and received an email saying it was shipping late. And by late, I mean perhaps one day later than they advertised. The lovely shop owner sent me an email apologizing and promising me a small gift as an apology. Tada charms! The owner sent me these gorgeous charms as the apology!

This is why I love shopping Etsy. The sellers on Etsy go above and beyond. Honestly I hadn't even noticed the order shipped late, nor would I have really cared. I will never say no to cute free charms though.

I mean seriously. Look at that pufferfish.

Does anyone else love Etsy? I would buy all presents there if I could.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Dilated Pupil Monster

Hello all! Sorry I skipped last week's post. With all that was happening in France, I didn't feel like posting anything.

I don't have anything super exciting this weekend either, so please still love me.

I went to the eye doctor on Saturday because I didn't want to miss any work. I'm such a good employee.

When they dilate my pupils I always end up looking like some sort of alien or monster. There is barely and color left! It makes me feel trippy, but it looks pretty cool.

Sorry I don't have anything more exciting, I'll try to get up to something soon.

Hope all you Americans are pumped for Thanksgiving! Wooooo!

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Fall Fashion

Hello all, sorry my Photo Sunday is once again on Monday. I'm the worst.

Today's photo is about fall fashion! Does anyone else love fall clothes more than any other clothes? I love the fall colors, like maroon, dark green, and mustard. I love that plaid fits in so perfectly. I love sweaters and scarves. And boots! I much prefer pants to shorts, especially yoga pants.

Fall fashion is best fashion.

This outfit is exactly why I love fall. Boots, plaid pants, and a giant maroon sweater. Love.
Fall is my favorite season, for so many reasons.

The fact that I actually seem fashionable in fall is one of the main ones.

Anyone else love fall? Fall fashion your favorite fashion?
Pumpkin all the things?

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Halloween Pictures!

Hello all! Did you have a good Halloween? I did!
YC and I dressed up as Glenn and Maggie from the Walking Dead, and I personally think we rocked it. :)

Because I can't contain myself, here are a ton of pictures of us from Halloween. You're welcome!

I know it's not super in character, but this picture is my favorite.

A Weekend in Baltimore

Look at me, two posts in one day.
You're welcome.

A weekend in Baltimore wasn't much time, especially with only one full day. We really went to visit family though, so sightseeing was a secondary priority. Family-wise, this weekend was jam packed.

Probably the coolest thing we saw.

Photo Sunday: Best Pho Ever

Hello all!
I was only home for about an hour this whole weekend, so sorry for the Photo Sunday on Monday yet again. Oops.

I spent the weekend in Baltimore visiting some family, which will get it's own short post.

This Photo Sunday though, is about the yummiest pho I've ever eaten from a small spot in Baltimore that my second cousin took us too. She wasn't lying when she said it was the best.

Look at all those vegetable and tofu! Tofus? Is the plural just tofu?
I could barely reach the noodles until I ate half the vegetables, but it was worth it. It was so good. So much flavor and so well cooked. The tofu and vegetables were perfect.

It almost made me wish I lived in Baltimore.

Anyone else a huge pho fan? It is my cold weather comfort food. Anyone know any other great places to get pho? Other than you know, Vietnam, which I will get to eventually.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: I Love Autumn

Hello all!
Autumn is my absolute favorite season! I love being able to wear leggings, jeans, sweaters, scarves, boots...the whole nine yards. I love that it is finally cool enough for me to wear my hair down without overheating. I love the changing leaves. I love pumpkin flavored things (I don't care that it's a white girl stereotype! Delicious!) I looooove Halloween. You have no idea. Playing dress up is the best.

Another added bonus of autumn is that now when I wake up for work the sun is always rising right out the window. It's hard to be too grumpy about getting up for work when you wake up to this.

Anyone else as in love with autumn as I am? What are you guys being for Halloween? Do you embrace the pumpkin?
-Alisa

Book Review: Outlander

Hey all! I did one book review ages ago, and I figured I should get back into that.
So here is my second book review, for Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.

I was too lazy to retake a picture of my book, so I had to take a picture of my old picture on Instagram...I'm lazy.

I'd heard awesome things about Outlander from multiple people, and had it on my to-read list for ages. I'd just never gotten around to reading it. After receiving an Amazon gift card, I decided it was time for Outlander.

I loved it! There is so much detail in this book, both historical and cultural. The only reason I ever really read romance books is for the historical fiction. I love historical fiction, and historical romances do it so well. This book definitely falls into the historical romance genre, but there is enough action in it to qualify as straight up historical fiction and adventure as well.

For the most part I loved the main characters, though there was a scene in the middle where I got so frustrated with both of them that I had to take a break. I eventually forgave their actions and was re-hooked.

I can't wait to read the next book in the series.


Have any of you read Outlander? Any other historical fiction recommendations for me?
-Alisa 

Photo Sunday: Princess Dress

Hey all!
I'm using this Photo Sunday to show off a pretty dress I don't get to wear, and to complain about a lack of fancy balls.

My hair looked ridiculous, so I cropped my head off.
Look how pretty the dress is! I looked like a princess. The wedding I was going to wear it for isn't fancy enough though, so no dress.

Which brings me to my second point: We need more fancy balls! There should be masquerade and other such balls held somewhere. That way I can still have a reason to wear princess dresses. If I ever become rich (unlikely) I am going to have a ballroom and host balls!

Especially masquerade balls. They seem so fun.

Anyone else wish people held balls for them to dress up for? Just me?

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Team Snap 5K

Hello all. Sorry this Photo Sunday is so late. I wasn't home at all this weekend, and then I was busy yesterday. (Plus I've been reading The Martian and I can't stop)

On Sunday I participated in the Team Snap 5k for Brain Tumor Research for the second year. I walked, because running is death.

Of course we dyed our hair purple again. This year YC did it for me, and he did a great job. Though, I managed to get it all over my neck and chest washing it. Sigh. No purple is not the brain tumor awareness color, but Jamie likes it. Jamie is the teacher I walk for, that the whole race is for. She is an amazing person who stays upbeat no matter what life throws at her, brain tumor included.

This year over 500 people participated. Jamie's speech at the beginning nearly made me cry. She is the most amazing person I have ever met.

You should all definitely consider donating to brain tumor research, or participating in a walk for awareness. Or something.

For amazing people like Jamie.

Lots of love.
-Alisa

Photo Sunday: I Got a HOPE!

Yesterday I walked in to my house to find Hope at my table! My family, Hope, and YC planned it for months. I had no idea she was coming home.

Needless to say my weekend was made. She will be here for two whole weeks!

In her honor, here is my absolute favorite picture of us.

Hope does not enjoy this picture as much as I do. I think it is the best. Also, we look exactly the same even though this was high school. Love it.

Be prepared for a post about our wonderful reunion extravaganza!

Anyone else have as super awesome of a weekend as I did?

-Alisa

Mother-Daughter South Carolina Trip

Hey all! Summer is officially over and I'm back working in elementary school. Five days in and I'm already exhausted, anyone else?

I finally have some down time today, not much mind you, but enough to write a blog post!

The last week before school started my mom and I took a trip down to South Carolina to visit my god parents.

Me and my mommy at the rainbow row.

Photo Sunday: Chimney Rock

Hello all!

School is back in session, so my trips will be a little farther in between for the next couple months. Luckily I do have some plans on the horizon!

Just last week I got back from a trip to South Carolina to visit my god parents (who are awesome). This Photo Sunday comes to you from a side trip to North Carolina to visit Chimney Rock. This is my favorite picture from the hike.

There's nothing like the view of misty mountains from atop a mountain. I love hiking, and while Chimney Rock is more stairs than actual hiking, it is still a pretty good workout. Most people drop off after the chimney part, so if you climb to the actual highest point you'll have a lot less people to contend with.

Chimney Rock is gorgeous and I recommend a visit.

Soon I'll be writing up a longer post on Chimney Rock and Charleston with tons more pictures. Be prepared!

-Alisa

Montreal Like a Local (ish)

Hey guys! Sorry I haven't posted much, but I haven't been home a lot. YC and I spent five days in Montreal and then I went to South Carolina with my mom for another five.

YC and I adored Montreal! I think part of the charm of Montreal was staying a cute little Airbnb. We were located in a neighborhood near the botanical garden, and I think we were the only tourists in the area.

The lovely botanical garden.

Liebster Award Nomination

Hey guys! I've been nominated for the Liebster blogging award. It is a way for lesser known bloggers to get to know each other. Apparently it helps get the word out about your blog.

I was nominated by Claire Wang from Adventure at Work. I know her through Aileen Adalid's travel group on Facebook (I am Aileen). Thanks to both for this opportunity to get to know the blogging community.

Photo Sunday: An Ode to Poutine

Hello all! I just got back from Montreal late last night, hence the super late Photo Sunday.

In Montreal I discovered a new love. POUTINE!

Mmmmmm. Look at all that goodness. (The grilled cheese was delicious too) In case you aren't aware, poutine is a Canadian dish consisting of french fries, gravy, and cheese. Fancy poutine often adds meat and other things, but as a veg head I went with the basic. I'm not going to lie to you, my tummy did not appreciate the gravy. My body can't really process meat anymore, and the meat based gravy made me a bit sick.

It was definitely worth it though. Poutine is such a guilty pleasure. You know it is greasy and not very healthy,but it tastes like magic.

So I don't care that my tummy does not approve of poutine. Poutine...I love you.


Anyone else a poutine lover? More on Montreal to come.
-Alisa

Photo Sunday: My Favorite D.C. Photo

Hello all. Sorry this post is a day late. I wasn't feeling very well yesterday and completely forgot to write this.

This photo comes to you again from D.C. and is my favorite one. Thanks to Jessi's husband Cam for the photo.

Jessi and I found home! You can pretty much tell where everyone at the WWII memorial is from, because they all pose with their state (or territory). Jessi may live in New Zealand now, but we all know she is a Pennsylvanian at heart.


Have you been to this memorial and posed with your state or territory? Almost the end of summer, where has everyone gone on vacation?
Now I'm going to go back to watching Supernatural.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: A Brief Trip to Pittsburgh

I know it is Saturday, not Sunday, but I am traveling the next couple days. It is time to take YC's parent to New York to fly back to Singapore. Tomorrow we leave for a night in Bethlehem and then on to NYC the next day. I'm not sure I will have enough time to write tomorrow, so instead Photo Sunday is a day early!

Plus this post will be a tad longer than my typical Photo Sunday.

YC and I at the Waterfront

YC's parents wanted to see Pittsburgh, so we drove down for a short trip. We ate yummy seafood at Roland's on the strip before YC's parents dragged us to an outlet mall. Neither YC nor I enjoy shopping, so we just goofed off.

In the evening we visited the Waterfront. Not going to lie, my favorite part was finding really cheap books at the Barnes and Nobles there. I bought The Ghost Bride and The Midnight Rose. Both historical fiction pieces. I've already finished the first, and I liked it quite a lot though it was not what I anticipated.

The next morning we met up with one of my friends from college that lives in Pittsburgh for lunch. We ate at the Conflict Kitchen. I had heard of it before, but hadn't realized it was in Pittsburgh. If you haven't heard of it, the Conflict Kitchen only serves food from countries the United States are in conflict with. The country changes each month. July was Cuba, though we are on much better terms with them now. I love Cuban food, so I was pumped.

If you're ever in Pittsburgh, I suggest trying out the Conflict Kitchen. The food is quite cheap and yummy, plus you will learn something from the quotes on the boxes. I'm hoping that next time I'm down there the food is Middle Eastern, since I haven't tried the cuisine from that area.

According to my friend: Hogwarts

Right next to Conflict Kitchen is the University of Pitt, which houses this gorgeous building. My friend was right, it is practically Hogwarts. The inside is full of arches, high ceilings, and random staircases. We only spent ten minutes looking around, but I could have happily spent hours. I want to walk around the university and all of its pretty buildings and parks next time I'm in the city as well.


So there you have it. Extended Photo Sunday on Saturday with TWO pictures!

Have any of you been to Pittsburgh? Did you like the city? Have you tried Conflict Kitchen?

-Alisa

Washington D.C.: Eating All the Food and Walking All the Places

Hey all! I've been a bit busy the past week or so, but I finally had some time to sit down and write up a blog post on D.C.!

Jessi, my friend from New Zealand, and her husband, Cam, visited for approximately a week. We hung around our hometown for a bit, showing Cam where Jessi grew up, then we headed down to D.C.

Since I'm sure more of you are interested in D.C., here is a post on everything we did there!

My travel buddies and I taking a break on monument steps.

Photo Sunday: Nearing the End of 30 Day Challenge

Hello all!

As the title states, I am nearing the end of the 30 Days of Yoga I started with Yoga With Adriene. I've absolutely loved it.

Loving me some downward dog

Sadly I had a couple days where I couldn't get on the mat (D.C. you hindrance), but I made it! Doing this challenge definitely has instilled a love of yoga in me. I follow so many yoga people on Instagram now, and I read so many yoga articles. I will be continuing my yoga practice for sure. I plan on using free internet stuff until fall, then hopefully I'll be joining a yoga studio.

Does anyone out there do yoga? At home or in a studio? Which do you prefer? I'm a bit nervous about doing yoga with actual people in the future.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: A Short Visit

As you may remember me mentioning, one of my best friends and her husband visited me this week. They left yesterday and I already miss her so much.

While she was here we drove down to D.C. for a couple days and walked all over. This week I will be writing up a post on this trip to D.C., which involved a lot less flowers but a lot more sights.

Until then, this Photo Sunday comes to you from atop a little mountain looking out over my hometown.

I think this photo has quite the adventurous spirit...well at least Jessi's adventurous spirit. YC is just chilling on the bench.

Later this week I will give you some insight into our D.C. trip.

Does anyone recognize this mountain view? Any guesses?

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Cathedral Cove New Zealand

Hello loves!

In honor of one of my besties visiting from New Zealand starting tomorrow, I am posting a picture from my visit to New Zealand a couple years ago.

This impressive rock formation is found at Cathedral Cove in New Zealand. This beach is famous for the large rock archway (seen in the second Chronicles of Narnia movie). It is often quite crowded, but the view is worth it. I loved this rock out a ways from the beach.

Have any of you been to Cathedral Cove? Anyone else love the Narnia movies? Well, the first one and kind of the second one...not the third one at all.
Hope your summers are going well.

-Alisa

A Short Update: Visitors and Possible Trips

I'm going to be super busy coming up, so I figured I'd stop by and give a life and plans update.

Next week one of my best friends is visiting from New Zealand with her husband. I am so excited! It has been years since I've seen her, and I haven't met her husband in person yet. (Skype does not count)

Taking silly artsy pictures together in New Zealand.

Photo Sunday: Yoga Week One

Hello loves! As stated in the title, I have finished my first week of yoga!

So far I love it, but it is so hard. I am sore in places I didn't even know could get sore. Still, I cannot wait until I can hold the advanced poses. One day!

Look yoga! This is about as complicated a move as I can pull off so far. It made for a pretty picture anyway. I'm so pleased to be through my first week of yoga, and I can't wait for more. When I get into something I go 110%.

I've spent the last week finding yoga bloggers and Instagram users to follow for inspiration and reading articles on yoga. I'm a bit obsessed.


Is anyone else out there a yogi? Do you love it? Any suggestions/pointers/tips? Help always welcome!

-Alisa

A Book Review and a Yoga Challenge!

Hello all! I've been feeling super productive recently, so here comes another post!

First off, a book review! Last week YC and I went on a book date where we each bought the other person one of our favorite books. I bought YC The Name of the Wind; my absolute favorite book. YC bought me The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.

I finished my book in only a couple days, It was a super easy and quick read. The story is written in first-person from the point of view of a unique kid who attends a special needs school. Though it is not directly stated in the book, it is fairly clear that Christopher is on the Autistic Spectrum.

Here is a link to the Goodreads page.

Photo Sunday: Blue Hair and a New Camera

Hello loves! Look at me posting on an actual Sunday!

For my birthday my family got me a real camera, so I've been trying to figure it out. I've never had a nice camera before. It is harder than I thought.
I also just dyed my hair teal! These pictures come to you from my photography practice and my teal hair.

This one I took myself with a timer and a table.

This one YC took for me. It was hard to cope with the bright sun.

I bought a new bag for my camera as well! The bag is from Ona Bags and it is gorgeous. I haven't taken it on an adventure yet though. I'll let you all know how it holds up. The dress I also got recently from Forever 21. All the new things!

Any suggestions for how to overcome the bright sunlight? Anyone else have an Ona bag? Do you like it?

-Alisa

Niagara Falls and the Oh So Charming Niagara-on-the-Lake

Since I failed at posting my Photo Sunday on Sunday, I decided I owed you a full post.
The weekend before this one that I just missed, my mom, aunt, and I drove up from PA to Niagara Falls (Canada Side. Which is the best side).

The first day was very rainy and overcast.

Photo Sunday: Light Reflections

Apparently I cannot be trusted to write my Photo Sunday when I'm reading. Books make me forget everything. So, sorry this post is a little late.

After dark at Niagara Falls, the falls are lit up from across the water by huge spotlights. The night we went was rather foggy, so a good portion of the falls weren't actually illuminated. The fog was awesome though because the spotlights lit it up instead. This created long bars of light which reflected on the wet ground. Coupled with the silhouettes of people crossing the street, this made for excellent pictures.

This picture is quite possibly my favorite from Niagara Falls.

Has anyone else been to Niagara Falls? Did you see the falls at night? Any advice on nighttime photography? This was my first attempt and it was difficult.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: DIY Pin Map

Hello all!

For this Photo Sunday I'm going to show off a cool DIY pin map I made. I figured since you all are travelers too, you might enjoy this.

I bought a vintage map on amazon for under three bucks, in fact I believe it was a dollar. It is quite large. I love the look of old fashioned maps, so that is what I chose to use. Behind it is a cork-board, mine had a metal frame but I think a frame-less one might work even better. The cork-board keeps my wall free from tons of little holes (on the wall it was on originally I did Not have a cork-board...so many holes). I then bought lots of colorful pins and used four to pin it to the corners of the cork-board. After that I picked colors which where I have been, where I really really want to go, and where I would like to eventually make it to at some point. I also used a sharpie to write one of my favorite travel quotes across it.

In the corners are a postcard a friend sent me from Iceland and a red envelope from Chinese New Year in Singapore.

The map hangs on the wall above my bed, which my stepdad's friend hung for me since that was beyond my skills,

I love maps and am always looking for ways to decorating using them. I hope you enjoyed my simple little DIY tutorial.

Does anyone else have an obsession with maps and decorating with them? What cool DIY map projects have you done? I want to do the one where you drill holes in a globe in the places where you've visited and put a light inside.

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Sunsets in the Country

Hello all!

This Photo Sunday comes to you from a farm near my house. I was driving home the other day and there was the most cotton candy sunset. I watched it the whole way home and kept stopping to try to get a good picture.

I think this shot with the silhouette of a barn turned out the best. It was near the end of the sunset and the colors are just so lovely. No matter how many sunsets I see, or how many pictures I take, the view always takes my breathe away. I think sunsets are by far my favorite thing to photograph.

Anyone else a sunset nut? Quick question: who thinks irregardless is a word? The internet seems to agree with me that is a word, albeit an informal one. My stepdad refuses to believe me or the internet. Who hear also votes that irregardless is a word? (Psst. The correct answer is yes. Agreeing with me is always correct ;P)

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: D.C., A Bracelet, and a Review

Hello loves!

Look! A Photo Sunday on Sunday! Quel suprise! (I'm pretty sure that is what a surprise in French)

This one comes to you from the Cherry Blossom Festival in D.C.

I love pictures with bracelets or hands in focus with something scenic in the background. For this picture we have a blurry Washington Monument behind my hand and my El Camino bracelet.

Since I have already written a full post on the Cherry Blossom Festival in D.C., this Photo Sunday will talk about my El Camino instead.

Firstly, I do love my bracelet. El Camino bracelets are handmade travel bracelets. Every one is handcrafted in England. They are a tad pricey, but I am willing to pay a bit more for things that are handmade. The company is also super friendly and helpful, so I'm willing to pay a bit more for that as well. After I ordered it, the company sent me an email asking for my opinion. That's costumer service right there. Also, when I tag them on Instagram they always comment; they're pretty cool.

The bracelet consists of a band you can get in multiple sizes and colors, being American I messed up the size a bit since I only know inches and mine is a tad too big. Then you pick what to put on it. There are the wooden spacers, country steps, small steps, and region beads. I don't have any region beads or small steps, yet. I have almost every country I've been too, though not the United States.

Though they're a bit expensive, I am definitely planning on buying more steps, including some small steps that have personal significance to me, and I hope to fill multiple bracelets. It is a fashionable way to commemorate your travels.

Plus it is such a bragging right. :P


I first heard about El Camino bracelets from a wonderful blogger I follow This Battered Suitcase. If you're interested in her blog, or the original article I read about El Camino, follow the link.

If you want a bracelet, or to just check them out, click this link El Camino.

Anyone have an El Camino? What do you think?

-Alisa

P.S. This post was in no way sponsored by El Camino. I bought the bracelet after reading the above post and loving the idea of them. Like I said, they are a bit pricey but I think it is worth it.

Photo Sunday: Jumping in the Rockies

For this Photo Sunday I bring you a lovely picture of Hope and I jumping for joy in the Rockies!

Look at all that plaid. I loved Colorado, it is one of the prettiest places I've been. Hiking around the Rocky Mountains was worth the altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness does suck though.

Anyone else been to Colorado? Has anyone else ever had altitude sickness? Did you think you were dying too?

-Alisa

Adventures in the city of bubble tea and dumplings : Taipei

Sunset at a beach just outside of Taipei

We recently had a 5 day weekend and my friends and I decided to capitalize on it with a trip to Taipei. All in all I only ended up having about 3 1/2 days in Taipei but I loved every minute of it! Taipei was a wonderful refresher from Korea. First of all, it was way more green. Now, don't get me wrong, Busan is a pretty green city, but that is primarily because we are surrounded by mountains, not that the city itself houses a lot of greenery. In Taipei it was like walking into Princess Mononoke, anywhere there wasn't a building, there was the jungle. I also saw a lot more house plants decorating balconies, roof-tops and shops than I do in Korea. I hadn't realized how much I missed that. Taipei also had a more international feel about it than Busan does. There were more foreigners scattered about town and the general populations level of English seemed to be higher. The aspect I found most refreshing however, was how much more socially progressive Taipei seemed. Our hostel was situated in an openly gay community, something Korea doesn't even seem close to. Scratch that, if I am being completely honest, their transportation system might have been what I loved best. They had proper queuing lines for the subway, here you are lucky if you get off the train before people start pushing there way in. The sides of the escalator were also respected, one side for walking, one for standing. Loved it! It is amazing how much little things like that can influence your trip or overall impression of a country. Oh, and of course the people were incredibly friendly. I'm not even kidding when I say you just have to put on your puzzled face for a second before someone will offer to help you!

I am lazy and also don't wish to bog you down with a ton of information so I will save the sights for another post. I would be curious to hear what has impressed you most about countries you visited. What are some turn-offs?

-Hope

Photo Sunday....Thursday....Sorry: Old Car and Hat Day!

I am so sorry! I know it's been ages since I've posted and this Photo Sunday is so late it is practically next Sunday. My bad guys.

Here are my excuses: It is nearly the end of the school year and it is insane at work. Secondly, my car had to get inspected and I didn't have it for five days, and I didn't have my computer. So sorry, but look at those excuses! Forgiveness please.

Car and I have been reunited and it feels so good! I missed my silly old car, and being able to actually drive myself to work.

Today was hat day at work! I rocked a hat my abuela (grandma in Spanish) crocheted for me. I think I looked pretty darn adorable. Plus it kept me warm in the cave we went to on a field trip.

Hopefully I'll have some more exciting posts coming up. I'm planning to go into why I never got to go to Korea in the near future. Prepare for a tell all. I'm waiting until Hope comes home, so look for it after that.

How's everyone liking the warmer weather? Anyone else super busy with summer coming up? Just me, or do other teachers/paras hate field trips?

-Alisa

Photo Sunday: Harry Potter Party!

Hello all!

For this Photo Sunday you have the privilege of a glimpse of my cousin's Harry Potter party!
It was quite the big shebang and everyone was all dressed up. My cousin who hosted the whole thing dressed as insane Gilderoy Lockhart, which was quite epic. I forgot to actually snap a picture of him though, so you just get me, YC, and my brother.

Here you see a lovely Cho Chang, a Luna Lovegood, and some random Harry Potter clothes. My brother just borrowed some of my cousin's stuff.

YC was such a good sport wearing one of my skirts to dress up as Cho Chang. We figured since she is the only Asian character in Harry Potter, he might as well go for it. I think he made quite the pretty Cho.

He wasn't the only person cross-dressing to be a character by far.

We had a grand time and the decorations were adorable. They really went all out.

Anyone else ever been to a Harry Potter themed party? Anyone ever heard of my cousin? If you google World's Biggest Harry Potter Fan the first youtube video is my cousin. Here's a link for your viewing pleasure.

-Alisa

Namhae: a little slice of paradise

Last weekend my friends and I made the trek to Namhae island. Namhae is perhaps best known by the foreign community for it's German village and Oktoberfest celebration. We chose to visit with out all the commotion and I must say I think it was a great decision. While Namhae put our limited Korean to the test it was vaguely refreshing to actually have to work to get around in another country. Not that I am complaining about all the English signage in Busan but it is a little unnerving just how much of it there is and how it has almost become a sort of status symbol. But that's another conversation. Anyway, Namhae. Great place.

We caught the bus from Busan and the trip was about 2 1/2 hours to the main bus terminal on the island and then another 45 minutes to where we were staying. The island is essentially the top of a mountain so most of the roads and settlements hug the coastline making getting anywhere on the island a bit of a trek. Buses are certainly the cheapest way to get around costing between 1,300 won and 2,900 won depending on where and how far you are traveling. If you get motion sickness bring some pills because the roads are windy as hell but make sure you keep that camera handy as well because the views are spectacular. The buses were also the trickiest part of our whole stay. Some of them don't come very regularly so be prepared to sit around for 30 - 40 minutes.

The sites we focused on for our trip included the rice terraces at Daraengi village (where we stayed), Boriam temple, Sangju beach and the German village. All of them were great but if I were to cut one out it would have to be the German village. It isn't exactly German and all of the "German" food was really expensive. Personally I think the best part of Namhae is the scenery, so my suggestion would be to focus on the natural sites rather than the tourist traps like the German village if you find yourself pressed for time.

I may write another post with more details on each site we visited, our favorite coffee shop etc if that is something you guys would be interested in. For now I just want to share some pictures!

Sunrise at Daraengi village

Photo Sunday: More Cherry Blossoms!

Hey there!

I hope you all had a great weekend. I worked, so mine was a bit full. Still, it was actually nice out here. Maybe summer is finally going to arrive.

For Photo Sunday I have another lovely cherry blossom picture that I didn't have space for in the full post. Enjoy!

I love the Japanese-esque stone structure with the cherry blossoms behind it. So pretty. I say Japanese-esque because I have no idea if it is actually Japanese or not, but it definitely brought their architecture to mind. There were so many people around this that I could only take a picture of the top if I didn't want tons of random people included.

I hate having to take pictures around people.

Did anyone else take any cherry blossom photos? Let me know in the comments and I'd love to know where all you've seen festivals like the one in D.C.

-Alisa

Washington D.C. Cherry Blossom Festival

Hello all! Sorry I never got around to posting Photo Sunday's the past two weekends, it has been a bit crazy around here. Plus, the weekend before last I was at the Washington D.C. Cherry Blossom Festival.

Let me tell you, it was gorgeous. Crowded beyond belief, but gorgeous.

Just look! All the pretty!

The Washington Memorial through blossoms

My favorite picture of Steph and I from the festival. <3

Cherry blossoms!

Spring has arrived! Riding in its wake is a stream of Cherry Blossom festivals all over Korea. These beautiful flowers are not only gorgeous but signify the beginning of Spring. They are so revered here that Starbucks has even created a seasonal beverage, mugs and other delectables to mark the occasion. The festivals themselves seem more like open air markets. Street food, various wares and some small rides for kids make the bones of the festival held here in Busan. Mostly it seems a nice excuse to go out and enjoy the warming weather and admire the beautiful flowers. Here are a few photos I have managed to capture of Cherry Blossom season.

My friend Kat and I walking along Cherry blossom street!

Hope

Holi Hai!

As I'm sure many of you know, Holi is a Hindu spring festival. You have probably seen pictures of revelers adorned in white throwing colorful powders and paints at one another. Holi is celebrated all over the world and has become an increasingly popular festival for travelers to take part in. The Indian population in Busan has hosted a Holi celebration at Haeundae beach for the past few years, attracting the foreigner population and a few locals to celebrate along side them.

The festival began with delicious samosas and logistical stuff like passing out the colors and caps. Once everyone was settled in the countdown began. The initial release of colors was spectacular! Everyone had a smile on their face as they sprinkled their friends and neighbors with color. The music and dancing continued for some time after that. We joined in a dance train and greeted one another saying, "Happy Holi!" We couldn't have asked for better weather. After we were danced out we took naps in the sun, worrying for the first time in months that we might burn. I would recommend attending Holi to anyone regardless of what city you are in. If you have the opportunity it is a beautiful festival filled with joy and laughter.

Me and the ladies after the festival

Photo Sunday: Through the Window

Good morning loves!

Today's Photo Sunday comes to you from the window of my mom's house. The front windows look out over the mountains, so they're perfect for sunrises.

I woke up the other morning to this beautiful sight. It is hard to be grumpy in the morning when you wake up to this. I love sunrises over the mountains.

I can't wait for summer so that I can go on trips. Right now I'm pretty much trapped here. Oh well.

How is everyone's spring starting off? Anyone else already planning summer adventures?

-Alisa

Catch-up!

Sorry guys, I completely spaced on the blog front. The new semester started at the beginning of the month and I have been busy adjusting to that. Fortunately (or rather unfortunately) there isn't much to catch you up on. I tend to retreat into hermitdom during the winter so I haven't been out and about much. Thankfully it is starting to warm up here so I should have more to talk about in the months to come.

During my absence I did go on two trips worth mentioning, I met a friend in Gyeongju for the day and attended Holi Hai here in Busan! Gyeongju was once the capital of the Silla kingdom and houses a vast network of historical sites, two of which are World Heritage Sites. Gyeongju itself seemed pretty small, especially after Busan, though some of the sites worth seeing are outside the city proper. Though we went on a relatively nice day, I would suggest going in the fall or spring. Many of Gyeongju's historic sites, such as the burial mounds are outside and I am sure are much more attractive when covered in grass and there are leaves on the trees. We were able to walk to all of the historic sites within the city proper, including the museum, but would have had to take buses to the temple and lake resort. The museum is free and worth a visit. I would suggest getting an audio guide or getting their for one of the free English tours (I believe they are just on Saturday's) because the signage isn't great. Perhaps I never noticed it in the States because I know the history better, or perhaps we really do have better signage but in any case if you don't know Korean history well like myself the sites can lose some of their meaning. Whether or not you are a big history buff, it is a nice city to wander around, they have a great outdoor market and you can rent bikes and enjoy their vast park. My last tip would be to avoid Anapji pond. The model at the museum makes it seem a lot bigger than it is and all that is left of the palace is a few pagodas. For one of the few sites we had to pay to see, I don't think it is worth it.

A Buddha statue from the National History Museum

Please feel free to comment about your own experiences in Gyeongju or post suggestions for my future trips!

I'll save Holi Hai for next week. 

Hope

Photo Sunday: The Treetop Walk in Singapore

Hello all! We had a bit of snow Friday, but it's finally sunny again. Maybe spring will happen for real soon? That'd be nice.

Since I'd rather think about warm places, I give you another picture from Singapore.

I mostly like this picture for how red and awesome my hair looks, not going to lie. It is also a good picture of the treetop walk and you can get a sense for how long it is. When I first saw the structure close ahead of me, I thought that was the end and was disappointed. Luckily I was wrong and it was much longer. It may have be sweltering, and I thought I was going to die on the way back, but it was worth it.

Mostly because I saw a monkey.

Also, I've been thinking of posting book reviews on here as well, since I read a shit ton. Would anyone be interested in book reviews? I could also just link my GoodReads here. Thoughts?

Anyone else ever done the treetop walk in Singapore, or anywhere else?

-Alisa

An Anniversary and a Review: Happy Valley Brewery

So yesterday was my one year anniversary with YC. To me this is quite the big deal. So I am taking a moment to gush to you guys, then I shall get on with the review of where we went for dinner.
I am reviewing it because YUM.

Last year at this time YC and I had just gotten back from a trip to NYC with some friends. We'd been seeing each other for awhile, but not officially dating. After spending a couple days with each other non-stop and surviving, I realized I could happily date this guy. So here we are a year later, and I couldn't be happier.

Gushing over.

The face of I-can't-stop-eating-for-photos

Photo Sunday: Iced Coffee Season!

Hey all! It's finally getting warm! I swear it feels like winter this year lasted forever, and was cold as hell.

Last week it was finally warm enough to get an iced coffee! Which, to me, is the real sign that spring has arrived.

I love Starbucks. I know their coffee is expensive, but for sweet coffees nowhere is better. For the less sugary coffees I do prefer little local cafes. I went to a particularly cute one in Ireland when we first arrived. After a six-hour overnight flight, my family needed the caffeine.

Coffee is one of my favorite things to try in new places. Not just new countries, but anywhere I go. I love little cafes and quietly sipping coffee or chatting with friends.

As much as I love hot coffee, I do enjoy a good iced coffee. I'm so pumped it is finally warm enough to drink them without freezing.

Anyone else a coffee lover out there? Any suggestions on coffee places I need to hit up on my travels?

Happy spring!

-Alisa