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Lifestyle

Engaged!

May 11, 2017

 Exciting news…. I AM OFFICIALLY ENGAGED!!!!

After 5 years, my boyfriend asked me to be his wife.

May 5th started with Justin surprising me with breakfast, church and a shopping spree. Next, I enjoyed a manicure and lunch at my favorite Italian restaurant. We then headed down to the beach at Crystal Cove.  Here I spied a beautiful tropical picnic (as we are considering Fiji for our honeymoon!!!). Flower petals lead to a blanket filled with gorgeous bouquets of Hawaiian flowers, pillows, blankets, candles, chocolate covered strawberries, apple cider and my favorite angel food cake. After proposing with an absolutely breathtaking ring that Justin had designed, my two dogs came running around the corner to complete the surprise. It started to sprinkle as we walked the beach but the clouds parted and  the Lord blessed us with a perfect rainbow!

Justin’s siblings help him implement this wonderful experience. Truly one of the happiest days of my life!!  Thanks Victoria for these photos to remember our day!

xoxo

A

Lifestyle Travel

PLAYING MOANA

February 25, 2017

While wearing my gorgeous haku lei, I couldn’t help but sing the Moana song at the top of my lungs. If you haven’t heard this song,  take a moment to watch it here. The whole Moana soundtrack was on continuous play during our adventures.

These photos include my beautiful friend Larisa.  So enjoyed experiencing her island of Oahu. (Our floppy sun hats were purchased off of Etsy!)

xoxo

A

Lifestyle

HAKU LEI

February 25, 2017

For my trip to Hawaii, I wanted to order a flower head piece or lei. I discovered a local florist on the North Shore who specializes in custom haku leis for every occasion. Three weeks before my arrival, I emailed some inspirational photos and she worked her magic. I was SO impressed by her kindness and the quality of each haku. She far exceeded my expectations and I received numerous compliments. They lasted 5 days and enhanced my photoshoot.

You can find her on Instagram or Facebook @poehaku

xoxo

A

Lifestyle Travel

ROPE SWING

February 25, 2017

One of the things I love about Hawaii are the rope swings found along the beaches. My favorite was off of 83 where I experienced a peaceful moment and some beautiful scenery.

xoxo

A

Lifestyle

BEST MOMENTS OF 2016!

January 3, 2017

As we say goodbye to 2016, I’m reflecting on this amazing year!  The launch of this blog allowed me to seriously pursue my love of photography!

Over this past year, I’ve enjoyed 12 fabulous trips: Florida, Bahamas, Canada (twice), Joshua Tree, Cancun, Palm Springs, Ireland, Yosemite, New York, Oregon and Lake Tahoe. Whether a short drive or a 13 hour plane flight, it has been a crazy adventure.

I’m finishing off the year with photos of some of my favorite memories!!  Wishing you all the best in 2017!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

 Shooting with my big brother Sean Sibling trip to Joshua Tree Amazing birthday vacation in Cancun CancunLabor Day weekend at Fairmont, Lake Louise, CanadaInternational road trip in Ireland with my big brotherOvercoming my fear of heights in Northern IrelandOne of my favorite activities, dog sledding in Canada with my mom Enjoying drive through Yosemite with my favorite travel companionsMy little family at Yosemite Beautiful snow in Oregon with JustinGirls trip with Larisa to New York  First visit to New YorkBoyfriend and number one supporter enjoying our 5th Christmas Christmas cuddles with my little nugget GhostThe King of the house… Loki

I love reminiscing on these past adventures while anticipating future destinations for 2017!  Thanks for visiting.

                                                                                     xoxo

A

Lifestyle

RILEY’S APPLE FARM

October 27, 2016

Below are photos from when I traveled up to Oak Glen to Riley’s Apple Farm just to make some delicious apple cider 🙂 .

(While there are tons of apple farms up in Oak Glen, make sure to arrive early before the heat and crowds start rolling in)

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xoxo

A

Lifestyle

WINE COUNTRY

October 24, 2016

Searching for a fun place to enjoy lunch with my dear friend Larissa, we stumbled upon two of the prettiest wineries in Temecula. We first enjoyed the grounds and wine tasting at Wilson Creek. We  purchased one of their most popular varieties Almond Champagne.  A few minutes up the road is the Ponte Winery.  Also known as one of the best lunch spots around, we had an amazing charcuterie platter and basil pesto chicken pizza. I highly recommend both these places for a fun afternoon and delicious food!!!

 

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xoxo

A

Lifestyle

HALLOWEEN WITH PETCO

September 25, 2016

Happy Fall Everyone!

My passion is travel, except around the holidays. Having my home decorated is a MUST! I’m now focused on Halloween decor.  First stop was Petco so my boys could choose their costumes. Call me the crazy dog lady who loves to dress up her dogs. They look so happy, especially Ghost in his little hat. Enjoy this beautiful Fall season!!

For you pet lovers, time to enter *Petco’s Halloween Costume Contest:

 1. Follow Petco on Instagram @petco.
2. Tag photos with  #HalloweenTogetherContest and @petco for official entry.
3. Official contest dates are 10/1 – 10/26.

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* Post brought to you by Petco.

xoxo

A

Lifestyle

LAZY DAYS

July 28, 2016

For the past few years I’ve enjoyed a comfy queen size bed.  However, once my second dog arrived, I needed to upgrade. Yes, of course, my dogs sleep with me!  While they prefer the cold tile, occasionally they sprawl out on my bed like it’s their own. So a California king bed became a necessity.  I adore Z Gallerie  where I purchased my new dream bed.  I now have a gorgeous frame, an insanely comfy mattress, the fluffiest comforter and TONS of pillows. I must add, buying a mattress was definitely the hardest big kid decision I’ve made thus far. While I might hit the snooze button some mornings, it was well worth it. There is nothing like a lazy day in bed with my little Ghost!!

IMG_7583 IMG_7603IMG_7584IMG_7601IMG_7604IMG_7594IMG_7585IMG_7591     Bed: Z Gallerie

Lifestyle

BEAT THE HEAT

July 20, 2016

When the temperature rises above 90 degrees in Huntington Beach, I start to melt.  In order to beat the heat, (especially with huskies), out comes the hose, mini pool and ICE CREAM. While I might share my ice cream cone with my doggies, I prefer to make them frozen yogurt treats that they enjoy!

To make these yummy ice cream treats, use store bought waffle cones.  Dip them in melted milk chocolate chips.  I use a mini crock pot.  After dipping the cone in the chocolate, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top and refrigerate for at least an hour. When chocolate is hardened, add your favorite ice cream and enjoy!!!

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xoxo, A