A Year in Provence

Right before Borders closed in September, on my last trip I picked up two books: The Sweet Life in Paris, and A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. After sitting on my shelf for a few months, I finally got around to reading A Year in Provence last week, and finished it over the weekend.

I won't get into too much detail about it for those of you who haven't read it and wish to, but it was one of the best books I have read in awhile. Peter Mayle is a FANTASTIC writer, and I felt that I was right there in Provence, learning and experiencing everything with him. The one thing I really wish I could have enjoyed was all the delicious food he mentions! It all sounded delish.

Overlooking a vineyard in Provence. The wine was the most delicious wine I ever consumed.

As I read about all of Peter Mayle's adventures during his move to Provence, all I could think was "I wish I could do that." I'm not sure I could move somewhere permanently, but I think a temporary relocation abroad would be one of those amazing, once in a lifetime things that you just never, ever forget.

I think the greatest thing, besides being abroad, would be the chance to really be immersed in the culture and to "live like a local." From learning the culture, the language, and of course all about the food, it would be a great chance to do all those things you wish to as a tourist, but just don't have the time for on a typical visit. 

Have you ever thought of what it would be like to move to another country? Where did you have in mind and of course, what would you do while you were there?

Le Weekend

Ah, Monday. Even though today and this week will be a drag, I only have ONE week of classes left. Boy, am I glad for that! I'm also glad that in between stuffing my face, I got all of my assignments for the end of the semester done over Thanksgiving break. Nothing beats having a stress-free and relaxing weekend. 

My little glitter Christmas tree from Trader Joe's, 

A shopper on my trip to BJ's, who not just sang, but danced downed the aisle to a Jessica Simpson Christmas song.

A taste of New England: Lobster Rolls made from scratch and BBQ chips from Trader Joe's (so. good)

Marry You: the only song I like from Bruno Mars, which I actually heard first on Glee.

Finished A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle, a must read for the travel lovers/Francophiles. 

Sunday Funday: Tea and the New York Times. A Sunday tradition.

One thing I noticed this weekend was how truly excited I am for the holidays. Is it possible for someone to love and loathe the holidays at the same time? That's been me in the past years, but for some reason, this year feels different. I can't wait to share my 12 days till Christmas posts with you next week! 

How was your weekend? Did you do anything fun for the first holiday weekend?

My friend Gabriella

Everyone, say hello to my absolutely FABULOUS friend Gabriella. Gab and I go to school together and met last year in an awfully boring Philosophy class. From day one, I was kind of obsessed with her style; in a sea of sweats and slop, Gab's style stood out for being super chic, while also being laid back and school appropriate.

As we had more classes together, we got to become friends and realize we had quite a bit in common: a love of fashion, shopping, ASOS, and Blake Lively, amongst other things.

To pick just any one thing that I love about Gabriella's style is extremely difficult. So I will share my top three:

1. Splurge v. Save: 
Some of Gabriella's favorite stores to shop are ASOS, H&M, and Century 21, further proving looking great, doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality or breaking the bank. Which leads into the splurge...

2. Investment Pieces:  From a statement watch to a fabulous Chanel handbag, Gabriella invests in the classic, timeless pieces that, take her from season to season. 

(FYI: Her handbag collection makes me sick, especially her navy Balenciaga. Amaze.)

3. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!: Whether its a great scarf or a stack of bracelets, those little touches make an already perfect look, absolute perfection. 

[Top to bottom, L-R] Gab finishes off a simple day look for shopping, with a classic Chanel handbag. 
A gold statement watch serves as fashion and function.
 A classic coat and a chunky knit infinity scarf are paired with the season's best accessory: a Starbuck's red cup.

So there you have it! Up there with Alex Curran, and Hilary Duff, is my friend Gabriella, one of my style inspirations. Show Gab some love (or else...just kidding) and have a fantastic first weekend of the holiday season! 

Getting into the holiday swing of things...

The tree at Rockefeller Center is lit, and it is December 1st! I am officially allowing myself to get into the holiday spirit and fully embracing holiday decorations, movies, red cups, and music. What I will never embrace is this song. God help me and you if I have to hear that song.

Anyway.

I bought this sweater back in September awhile ago when the Gap was having a 40% off sale. I had fallen in love with a similar one in July from H&M (right before vacation), but I couldn't justify buying a sweater in the summer. Plus, the Gap one is MUCH nicer. 

I was obviously attracted to the sparkle, but in the back of my mind, I just knew it would be perfect for the holidays. I felt crazy buying such an item so early, but since it was on sale, and depleting in stock quickly, I bought it and kept it hidden until now. 

Even Ke$ha's jeal

I really can't wait for Christmas. For starters, other than Fleet Week and Fashion Week, Christmastime is one of the few times NYC is bearable for me, and that I actually enjoy being here. Add in time with family and friends, and loads of merriment, and you have my absolute favorite holiday.

So here's to enjoying all the most wonderful time of the year has to offer!