tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91957707435607207882024-02-08T04:54:39.743+00:00Pencil Mia in?...pretty please?Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-87461060488870209312013-12-22T10:57:00.001+00:002013-12-22T11:08:27.355+00:00ThoughtsI realised recently that I don't post here, not because I don't want to, but because I use my phone for most of my picture taking and social media interactions.<br />
<br />
This saddens me.<br />
<br />
Because I feel like I'm missing out on a great way to meet new friends and also document the things that I deem important enough to remember.<br />
<br />
I am addicted to instagram. I love looking at other people's photos as much as I enjoy posting my own, but I feel like that world is somehow a little more isolated. Especially if you don't often use common hashtags and make up stupidly long crazy ones like me.<br />
<br />
But I am going to try harder. As I embark on 2014 - year of no spending and lots of creativity - I want to try to blog more often, but also to branch out in the intstagram world.<br />
<br />
So if you see me on either one, please stop by and say hello... encouragement goes a long way :) Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-40000357227785299132013-05-13T19:30:00.000+01:002013-05-13T19:30:00.173+01:00Live the momentMonday can be the worst day of the week for some/most/all? of us. I want to turn this around a little, so instead of letting my mind wander to negative places with doomed thoughts of the long week ahead, I want to focus on the now, the present, this awesome moment and what is currently great about it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThoGDH0PRrkxRZRmzEtcRVDJ_VegwYdj-T9vp_SsJf0jgrFSna_yWRRIAkIO9QDstS_4G2InajLV5UTxMxbCaACVBe8zX3iVpajIa8CcISxjUvjjn3-tF_AQbjYL4yoVkNkC2ivrUNYk/s1600/IMG_20130512_190051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThoGDH0PRrkxRZRmzEtcRVDJ_VegwYdj-T9vp_SsJf0jgrFSna_yWRRIAkIO9QDstS_4G2InajLV5UTxMxbCaACVBe8zX3iVpajIa8CcISxjUvjjn3-tF_AQbjYL4yoVkNkC2ivrUNYk/s320/IMG_20130512_190051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0Novara Province of Novara, Italy45.446929999999988 8.622161199999936845.357821499999986 8.4607996999999369 45.536038499999989 8.7835226999999367tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-19604681526885656542013-05-12T09:41:00.002+01:002013-05-12T18:05:37.267+01:00I'm back!<div style="text-align: center;">
Back from vacation?
<br />
<br />
back from work?
<br />
<br />
back from Mexican food last night?
<br />
<br />
back from the dead?
<br />
<br />
All of the above :)
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV466Uatdqj5dMAOgrSGV6MJLxtFoqOU2inVvqAh7wx8ztcaWXtWxYwZ2a3GHiy-Y7w1dpmFclSqiHEN2d1N2zQu4FUH25DGG2TDmPyHjHPsaRwVQKBAyncyX4dZ5nhpmvRxkenFg-cl4/s1600/20130512_100625.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV466Uatdqj5dMAOgrSGV6MJLxtFoqOU2inVvqAh7wx8ztcaWXtWxYwZ2a3GHiy-Y7w1dpmFclSqiHEN2d1N2zQu4FUH25DGG2TDmPyHjHPsaRwVQKBAyncyX4dZ5nhpmvRxkenFg-cl4/s320/20130512_100625.jpg" /></a>
<br />
righthererightnow...</div>
Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-49587052216522381162012-09-01T16:02:00.002+01:002012-09-01T16:02:26.793+01:00This time last weekThis time last week I had just married the love of my life. I was emotionally drained, crying on and off with happiness and yet on such an unbelievable high.<br />
<br />
I have nearly 1,000 pictures to go through, but here is one of my favourites. It was forecast for thunderstorms on the day, but thankfully there were just a couple of showers and a double rainbow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFpG46LH-NWBd4_loK901dfI0-i_j-L7RKIdZq5d_YuMRwg-8PlZXBVtO2cKOd55whkIOOl4e5i9hacNBl5ou820fiFZW7vztI4LLCNQBKDeE7xxXqwVZTlSt-GhVO6H4-LeHegPgWHw/s1600/Double+Rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFpG46LH-NWBd4_loK901dfI0-i_j-L7RKIdZq5d_YuMRwg-8PlZXBVtO2cKOd55whkIOOl4e5i9hacNBl5ou820fiFZW7vztI4LLCNQBKDeE7xxXqwVZTlSt-GhVO6H4-LeHegPgWHw/s320/Double+Rainbow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />I don't think I'd ever seen a double rainbow until this day.So special.<br />
<br />
(After a terribly stressful day at work yesterday, I saw another double rainbow and was filled with all kinds of lovely warm feelings)Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-48298572911861479282012-05-20T23:40:00.001+01:002012-05-20T23:43:09.664+01:00UmI feel that there are some big life milestones coming up for me in the next year or two and I am suddenly feeling the need to make myself a list of the things I feel I need to do before these milestones hit!<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li> Get a smartphone. </li>
</ul>
I put this off for so long, but I want to be able to take pictures and upload them to the inter-face-webs for all my friends and family to see. Especially if I find something particularly beautiful or important.<br />
<ul>
<li> Find a way to supplement my income</li>
</ul>
This means that if my job goes tits up when my contract ends next summer, I at least have some way of contributing to the household while we figure out what to do.<br />
<ul>
<li>Mentally prepare myself for another move. </li>
</ul>
It may be that we need to find a smaller, cheaper place. It may be that we end up moving to another city. We may even find ourselves moving to another country. Or we may just stay put for another couple of years, but I feel like I need to brace and prepare myself for a possible/probable move in the next 12 months.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Physically prepare myself for another move.</li>
</ul>
It would probably do me some good to go through all my belongings and throw or give away those that I am not using, that I don't need. I got rid of a lot of clothes a couple of months back, but I still feel I have a lot of unworn items holding me back. Time to switch to my summer wardorbe and root out those unneeded items.<br />
<ul>
<li> Help W get his driving license. </li>
</ul>
He really wants it, but the motivation to study and get to appointments on time is difficult when you work a 40hour week in a job that you don't really like that drains you and you just want to come home and relax. I am sure we all recognise this feeling? I want to help him to get this down and then we can get a car... I guess?!<br />
<br />
Now that I've completed my list I feel I am ready to go to bed. I am feeling wonderfully positive about this week, despite knowing I am a colleague down tomorrow (maybe even two) and that I am recovering from some crappy throat infection.<br />
<br />
This month has been a good one so far and it will be going out with a BANG :)Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-82301566013012773002012-05-06T16:10:00.001+01:002012-05-06T16:10:33.588+01:00Big Happy SighYou know what? I very almost became someone who apologises for the lack of posts in every blog she writes.<br />
<br />
I suddenly just realised, who am I apologising to? I started this blog for me, and who will see it out to the end? Yep, little old me.<br />
<br />
So I am going to stop apologising for myself, starting right now! And not just here either, everywhere. Unless I am truly sorry for my actions, I refuse to apologise because I think it is expected of me.<br />
<br />
Phew. That's a nice weight of my shoulders :)<br />
<br />
There is lots going on in the M+W household right now. We are busy planning two events for this summer (the wonderful occasions also mean that we likely won't get to go on holiday due to lack of funds); I am desperately trying not to over analyse everything that is going on with my body right now and stress out over nothing (I am experiencing some very weird symptoms right now :\ ); We are both trying to be healthier, lose some weight and become fitter for a whole lot of reasons, but one very special one indeed (which you will doubtless read about soon enough); My yearly evaluation at work is fast approaching and I am really hoping for an offer of a permanent contract (but I think it's a big hope, the financial situation of the school isn't looking great for next year); I am still crafting away, slowly and surely for my August party (that is one of the evens that we are planning); I just took on a HUGE translation job which should help in the money department (but is going to take a LOT of time and effort to complete) and the apartment is still pretty messy (hey, nobody is perfect).<br />
<br />
I'm not sure why every point up there got it's own little bracketed addition. I like it though.<br />
<br />
Here's to SUNday :) xxRiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-79594017456923855252012-03-22T08:56:00.003+00:002012-03-22T10:38:07.683+00:00Ok, I don't live in Milan BUT...<div style="text-align: right;"><div style="text-align: center;">...this make me so happy.<br /></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hUHe1RSZfB3S93ub0NX30UOeWlQdCGBLrCM1yoZuMNhvbauVX214cJ7MoVTxRI2hQ2EJYoBkQZiDvDcnDd8VYq0fsIw9NeKQJbdVmGl02sYNfODU8aR0Dh4usgJ8nj-AwV8XKZ_flCY/s1600/Weather22ndMarch.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hUHe1RSZfB3S93ub0NX30UOeWlQdCGBLrCM1yoZuMNhvbauVX214cJ7MoVTxRI2hQ2EJYoBkQZiDvDcnDd8VYq0fsIw9NeKQJbdVmGl02sYNfODU8aR0Dh4usgJ8nj-AwV8XKZ_flCY/s400/Weather22ndMarch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722643740088910530" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Especially when the forecast for Novara is actually a little warmer and more sunny :D<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I have to pick up some blood test results from the hospital today, so my boss kindly gave me the whole day off (it was either that or come into work for 3 hours and leave again). This means I am going to do a little food shopping and take a loooooooong bike ride out to the amazing <span style="font-style: italic;">"Aladdin's cave"*</span> that is Shun Fa. It sells just about everything and is super cheap. Don't worry, I have a list and I'll be sticking to it. Kind of.<br /><br />*Did you ever call shops like this an Aladdin's cave? It originated in our family from a shop in my Mum's home town. I used to love buying friendship bracelets from there, they were all kinds of neon goodness and were only 10p!<br /></div></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-43582983706327357062012-03-15T20:13:00.004+00:002012-03-15T20:27:49.226+00:00Just me?Is any one else out there addicted to bran based cereals?<br /><br />I found a new one and I'm in love!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqV2FgamzEqVjDUnqZlA_3yon-_JS-gLnvvDxa3NeqgRW0vlOgIoBOodxRmEFiA7binlpZv1qCRARjXm8s69HvVsogMPEeDWy9X6FucHOAj4fcUtFRLQ_iYdXj24_-cqKPMe4qn9yYxo/s1600/DSCF2734.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqV2FgamzEqVjDUnqZlA_3yon-_JS-gLnvvDxa3NeqgRW0vlOgIoBOodxRmEFiA7binlpZv1qCRARjXm8s69HvVsogMPEeDWy9X6FucHOAj4fcUtFRLQ_iYdXj24_-cqKPMe4qn9yYxo/s400/DSCF2734.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720222356341642594" border="0" /></a><br />I go through phases with cereals, opting for super healthy ones and then sugar coated, chocolate laden rubbish. Right now I'm in the healthy phase. I picked these up at the supermarket a couple fo weeks ago because of<br /><ol><li>The use of the word PREBIOTIC. I'm all for good tummy flora</li><li>The inordinate amount of fiber. 45% rda in 40g of cereal!</li><li>The huge amount of protein too.</li></ol><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoLd3a6_W_IbdZE03KskNX2hHiKM9917prqb9z1dBPr-NoNAbYQyt4jWekas-b2eZE-WISmTlS-KkVETiRXHQ7apxx-iy-I_WFQbmuBFWOFW8r5IYgg3qRdRmiXPtpYBRSny6Vk38F4g/s1600/DSCF2738.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoLd3a6_W_IbdZE03KskNX2hHiKM9917prqb9z1dBPr-NoNAbYQyt4jWekas-b2eZE-WISmTlS-KkVETiRXHQ7apxx-iy-I_WFQbmuBFWOFW8r5IYgg3qRdRmiXPtpYBRSny6Vk38F4g/s400/DSCF2738.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720222368609551794" border="0" /></a></p><p>Just look at that nutritional info! I'm two days into eating these and my tummy is happier. A little gassier while I balance it all out but much happier.<br /></p><p>But seriously, what is with the taste of good, healthy cereal?<br /></p><p>Bran flakes, taste like nothing. All bran, has the taste and texture of cardboard. Both of these cerals I like. But Cruscam has even less taste than these two divided by each other and the texture is more like a c<span style="font-style: italic;">ardboard-polystyrene hybrid </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">I love it!</span></p><p>Yes, Cruscam, you are my new breakfast/snack/lazy dinner love. I think you are so great, you could even get me through progesterone induced pregnancy constipation. You ROCK!</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:78%;">- Disclaimer, no I'm not pregnant, but progesterone does funny enough things to my tummy during a normal cycle. I dread what it might do in pregnancy!</span><br /></p>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-49993643826849737672012-02-26T21:32:00.006+00:002012-02-26T21:50:06.054+00:00The Shape of my WeekendYesterday was a momentus occasion for me and two of my close friends. We all went to the cinema to watch a film in Italian for the first time!<br /><br />It was fluff, trash, easy going and absolutely hilarious! We all loved the film and came out of the theatre feeling elated that we'd <span style="font-weight: bold;">finally</span> done it and understood everything almost perfectly. And as if that wasn't good enough, the spring weather had lasted into the evening and we were on cloud 9 pretty much the whole way to the Japanese restaurant where we met our other halves for a late dinner.<br /><br />We did however make one small mistake...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkE3DrzJ0F8JSGrMFt8HC81cDXO0-Z5XOhi0PjMOUFuNON09GM7bESvFaj-eq0v7KJDiUeJT3MqBQiudRJhQJg-g7tVT4b78t7-v9wPNrWTdTDUxjv8GPlQ2oe3aTmUIQbpv5Muu-cqE/s1600/DSCF2510.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkE3DrzJ0F8JSGrMFt8HC81cDXO0-Z5XOhi0PjMOUFuNON09GM7bESvFaj-eq0v7KJDiUeJT3MqBQiudRJhQJg-g7tVT4b78t7-v9wPNrWTdTDUxjv8GPlQ2oe3aTmUIQbpv5Muu-cqE/s400/DSCF2510.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713562289581750002" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We forgot that it was Carnevale this weekend, so the very place that we needed to be was also the most densely populated part of Milan.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVujinzNxMr9dJwTiUDmJXTeg5azp8RQt1VHxJw1s_oGmBJxz69k5t2pnshmhbwGInsNYF5hx0fsj7XlyjwJ1quBXoc2b80ooPOhMJ3_dvDbNHNbbXW56XYsSASwQdGrZ_W8XNrmWjoNw/s1600/DSCF2513.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVujinzNxMr9dJwTiUDmJXTeg5azp8RQt1VHxJw1s_oGmBJxz69k5t2pnshmhbwGInsNYF5hx0fsj7XlyjwJ1quBXoc2b80ooPOhMJ3_dvDbNHNbbXW56XYsSASwQdGrZ_W8XNrmWjoNw/s400/DSCF2513.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713561686986384626" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Crowd navigation in Italy isn't easy at the best of times, this was insane!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7svANl2xMEfOWf1HgaImhoNJgS8rpCL7j4Z0xciG5jvkXEk2VPmZUtgisqTxyJgb_2W_F2i3PN7e-DWGeVZgF4Z-d_DVprdTe2j9W7nF_ufJUPmb2n5Np_DmMXy2zOlvubY_4VDsDCw/s1600/DSCF2508.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7svANl2xMEfOWf1HgaImhoNJgS8rpCL7j4Z0xciG5jvkXEk2VPmZUtgisqTxyJgb_2W_F2i3PN7e-DWGeVZgF4Z-d_DVprdTe2j9W7nF_ufJUPmb2n5Np_DmMXy2zOlvubY_4VDsDCw/s400/DSCF2508.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713561696144449714" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was pretty fun to get coriandoli in my shoes as we walked through the Piazza though.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-LMll7-QSYbZuiNBUgWWexsPyZy1xg_6QtclQwxbj1IFi2IjY6N6cNHI9Oa9pNUOw6vtf91wkoUzlMQGXEVoHtgdqhki2aptkjUiCL78Cy8x5fJ3iD8bWXvtZQh7MI4gv9oFcZIngzg/s1600/DSCF2530.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-LMll7-QSYbZuiNBUgWWexsPyZy1xg_6QtclQwxbj1IFi2IjY6N6cNHI9Oa9pNUOw6vtf91wkoUzlMQGXEVoHtgdqhki2aptkjUiCL78Cy8x5fJ3iD8bWXvtZQh7MI4gv9oFcZIngzg/s400/DSCF2530.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713561674012449298" border="0" /></a>After our giggly cinema experience, the crowd had let up enough for us to release our inner children.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdUUNkS_tDTTjxz-XoIElRucxxEI3xSGhRIMqGNK0UfsE8riQsUU-S2efQC5SdLBZED3sXlXizL7u7Tk5gEKQH38t3w4Fmk-76W74P0RDiyokhx8JltGw6hZsdiRTBlnpGOexDiAsSh4/s1600/DSCF2526.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdUUNkS_tDTTjxz-XoIElRucxxEI3xSGhRIMqGNK0UfsE8riQsUU-S2efQC5SdLBZED3sXlXizL7u7Tk5gEKQH38t3w4Fmk-76W74P0RDiyokhx8JltGw6hZsdiRTBlnpGOexDiAsSh4/s400/DSCF2526.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713561666257073362" border="0" /></a>We picked up props from the floor -absoLUTEly unheard of in Milano- and let loose. (I am throwing a gigantic armful of confetti into the air. If you look hard enough you can see ;)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L5eRK_H1GoQC-wzoXwwn1zPh9-SKRz6OWTo6vDslmowrDaBZSjgpUdCZP8FLSFx3nE-Q7gEOMg1fdn8DU9Ng4C3XBWVCiEhWD6OijtYwx2LeuSD9gkF-wQfO6D3-0odZDrRAgu3Afuc/s1600/DSCF2527.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L5eRK_H1GoQC-wzoXwwn1zPh9-SKRz6OWTo6vDslmowrDaBZSjgpUdCZP8FLSFx3nE-Q7gEOMg1fdn8DU9Ng4C3XBWVCiEhWD6OijtYwx2LeuSD9gkF-wQfO6D3-0odZDrRAgu3Afuc/s400/DSCF2527.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713561662400209938" border="0" /></a>Oh yes, there she is... my inner <span style="font-style: italic;">Mi</span> (my name for myself as a child)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRmR91XAgLcTrc-YxoPdhQDnPHzGUZjrMqxRRLPF-PglwqjYAEqVu-akt5zK-3_UA7-ZBFEQxxv3oM8ECj7S4YgRZtDfVFJZKTU7fEoRQodyOz-bZlneZWTEbFoY97CMEmiFIuseJJ4c/s1600/DSCF2532.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRmR91XAgLcTrc-YxoPdhQDnPHzGUZjrMqxRRLPF-PglwqjYAEqVu-akt5zK-3_UA7-ZBFEQxxv3oM8ECj7S4YgRZtDfVFJZKTU7fEoRQodyOz-bZlneZWTEbFoY97CMEmiFIuseJJ4c/s400/DSCF2532.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713562296510731650" border="0" /></a>I do not envy the poor souls who had to clean up the remaning mess. At least it only happens once a year!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What shaped your weekend?</span><br /></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-45467915158553658152012-02-25T08:24:00.002+00:002012-02-25T08:58:30.175+00:00Sharing<div style="text-align: center;">On such a beautiful, sunny Saturday morning...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD4GPlJipYAmeZO-OAydB7MtVZSF4YAYVxAQ9qy9h4grZolKqQKVp4X20cp9a_-Ha_e2fT1o6NScPG5zY9kIGAVfwvuYDa0hFhLtmtFoQUILiTy2h_8dnC_uF3O2bUpLn2k-6JZqx2CI/s1600/DSCF2490.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD4GPlJipYAmeZO-OAydB7MtVZSF4YAYVxAQ9qy9h4grZolKqQKVp4X20cp9a_-Ha_e2fT1o6NScPG5zY9kIGAVfwvuYDa0hFhLtmtFoQUILiTy2h_8dnC_uF3O2bUpLn2k-6JZqx2CI/s400/DSCF2490.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712993375233056994" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">...how can I not stop to tickle these feet?<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I love the way my other half wraps himself up in a cocoon with the duvet, yet has his <strike>little</strike> feet sticking out... about 90% of the time.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What little things make you smile in the morning?</span></div><br /></div></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-19753239351214234112012-02-23T19:44:00.003+00:002012-02-23T19:58:30.251+00:00A night aloneI could have spent tonight cleaning, I could have spent it organising my overflowing cupboard, I could have caught up on some well needed sleep... Instead I spent it like this:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaudgSDsFW43Stq4pxXqgP0aaZ4VhudyY8ZE0sMps9DUdjfCzyVOkG2v4NWfauvuO9aZjnnFvRciJDLhbZOHkIHacXs39vL-ADw4X9Z9PqvnJO4qea7S7Uh_6Ivq-2FBCdoJ1zp-25i6E/s1600/DSCF2485.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaudgSDsFW43Stq4pxXqgP0aaZ4VhudyY8ZE0sMps9DUdjfCzyVOkG2v4NWfauvuO9aZjnnFvRciJDLhbZOHkIHacXs39vL-ADw4X9Z9PqvnJO4qea7S7Uh_6Ivq-2FBCdoJ1zp-25i6E/s400/DSCF2485.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712421031876826850" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pizza Margherita, I'm feeling very full right now<br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7LnTkiueW4jucbMW2ni6AvBdBdGVIElMLo1GM0bYtlrt8N9KrpjxN5-sPNa_RqDA7XsdUyeSetz-BjqrOSB6JsHHfzoS3FwcgwGSbwASPj3LKzsKbIwt-QEWG9_n8A8XBV9tR8LXmy8/s1600/DSCF2489.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7LnTkiueW4jucbMW2ni6AvBdBdGVIElMLo1GM0bYtlrt8N9KrpjxN5-sPNa_RqDA7XsdUyeSetz-BjqrOSB6JsHHfzoS3FwcgwGSbwASPj3LKzsKbIwt-QEWG9_n8A8XBV9tR8LXmy8/s400/DSCF2489.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712420970753176290" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Beer, because you have to have something fizzy with Pizza you know! (Plus, this only cost me 1.50Euro instead of 3.50. The guys at the pizzeria love me ;)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUXw2gqfm2Gs6KC3-UScrb38LlE0YNBOwVK7oiKasvHRKAzCRTbQhyphenhyphen32-PwliLqO8wCfJXybY-ig3ijirQSvF1q0B7FWEdsdSPtW4NBlMfU6zsJaM0crAa5jm8B_EGJdlxcOJg10EjmQ/s1600/DSCF2487.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUXw2gqfm2Gs6KC3-UScrb38LlE0YNBOwVK7oiKasvHRKAzCRTbQhyphenhyphen32-PwliLqO8wCfJXybY-ig3ijirQSvF1q0B7FWEdsdSPtW4NBlMfU6zsJaM0crAa5jm8B_EGJdlxcOJg10EjmQ/s400/DSCF2487.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712421002182759922" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Internet and futurama.<br /></div><br />The awesome little laptop desk thingy above is the best 15Euro I've spent in a loooong while. It makes using a laptop away from a desk so much comfier!<br /><br />I have decided that I need a smartphone to be able to live my dream of posting more regularly. It is too difficult for me to get on the internet regularly right now. Maybe when spring comes and I am out of hibernation I'll be around more often?<br /><br />I am willing the Spring to hurry up and greet us already!Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-74372626537034501192012-01-22T12:30:00.003+00:002012-01-22T12:40:13.314+00:00Sunday's here againSunday is, unfortunately, my second least favourite day of the week. It is the last day of the weekend and I always find it hard to enjoy because I know that without a doubt it will wuickly leak into and then become Monday. Monday is my least favourite day of the week.<br /><br />To try and help me feel positive about Sundays, I am going to remember all the amazing things about this week and try to keep today full of life!<br /><br /><ul><li>Did you know that I stopped smoking this week?! Of course you didn't, but it is true none the less. It was on my list of big things to do this year and I decided on a bit of a whim that I wasn't going to buy anymore cigarettes, ever again. And That was it... it's going superbly, though it has only been a few days. Wish me luck with staying off them.</li><li>I had the flu (that's not the good part) but today I woke up feeling like an actual human being again! YAY! Of course, I over did it a little and am now paying with exhaustion, but it's nothing a nap won't solve.</li><li>I got my shipment of amazon books this week and with time off work, I've been reading, reading, reading and learning too of course. I love having time to really read, especially when I can read in bed. It's so comforting and cosy, even if I am ill!<br /></li><li>I have been looking at lots of blogs and websites and collecting inspiration for wedding days. No, he hasn'r proposed yet, but we've been talking about it more and more and I figure I might as well get ahead on some of the ideas no? I am feeling very creative in all aspects of my life right now (despite being ill) and it's wonderful to feel so inspired</li><li>The freezing cold seems to have snapped and we've had a wonderful weekend full of sun! Nothing is more cheering that sun after a long period of dark, cold, fog and grey. Hello Mr. Sun! :D</li></ul>Here's to next week! *raises an imaginary glass*Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-76677223044181642582012-01-14T12:03:00.004+00:002012-02-23T20:09:13.627+00:00Working on a SaturdayWow, this sucks!<br /><br />Actually, it's not that bad, hehe. It was so relaxing to get up and know I had to go to work, but two hours later than usual. I even got in a coffee before leaving the house, but it was decaf, so I don't know if it counts!<br /><br />I've been thinking and writing and planning a lot lately. I have a lot to think and plan and write about. I want to dig out my 2011 aims for the year and see what I achieved and what I didn't.<br /><br />While I'm at it, I'll let you in on my aims for 2012:<br /><ul><li>Read at least 14 new books</li><li>Save money (also known as stop frivolous spending)</li><li>Don't ignore my emotions. Listen to them, hear them out and let them rest in peace.<br /></li><li>Learn Italian. For real.<br /></li><li>Be more organised on a day to day basis</li><li>Keep our apartment clean and tidy (i.e. don't let it get to pigsty status)</li><li>Keep losing weight (only 20-27lbs to go)</li><li>Be healthier (mainly stop smoking) with exercise and food in mind.</li></ul><p>I am sure there are more lurking in the back of my mind, as they surface I'll have to document them so they don't float away again. </p><p><br /></p><p>Just a little fact for you... 2012, is in fact, the year of MARIA. 12 has been Maria's favourite number for around 20 years now and she is overjoyed to be able to finally reach this momentus year. So much so, in fact, that she intends to make all her wildest dreams come true... and then some ;)<br /></p>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-66028875896758109242012-01-08T21:36:00.003+00:002012-01-08T21:41:58.590+00:00Buzz, buzz, busyYep, I've been a busy little bunny today, cleaning, tidying, reorganising. I've got two rooms totally down and they were two of the worst to tackle. This week is going to be tough, I'm going back to work tomorrow but I'm determined to stay on top on everything, staying cool, sticking to my routine, not getting caught up in the usual b.s. that tends to engulf me if I'm not careful. I am also determined to keep up our healthier ways of cooking together, eating together and making sure we clean up before we go to bed.<br /><br />Positive mental attitude.<br /><br />2012 is going to be a big year, it is going to be <span style="font-weight: bold;">my</span> year, by the simple logic that 12 has always been my favourite number. After years of loyalty, I'd like to think that the number 12 has got my back... I guess we'll see how it pans out eh? ;)<br /><br />Happy Monday to ALL :DRiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-68570445562968975552012-01-07T09:29:00.004+00:002012-01-07T10:02:42.384+00:00The last week of 2011We spent 6 days amazing, relaxing and fun days in the stunning Italian Alps over the xmas period. It was made even more special by the fact we were joined by two of our best friends here and it was, in fact, their last week in Italy.<br /><br />Mr has an invaluable internship starting on Monday in London with a huge design and advertising comapny and Mrs is 5 months pregnant, so it's going to be a big year for them and they decided to move back to the UK, doing what is best for them and their future as a family.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_qAETmDdPGHwtBvIF-7UiCIx5AdaS5On1XuIbuWH4MaOJsgO1HGmxh8WPanKUSPEGtx2YZg8DmS1PP4HJTnkDRQlKekrfDHujS7tozl4tpWVUFpfAhtvzU3ZmfLZTxWZoLvF_4jdwe8/s1600/DSCF1948.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_qAETmDdPGHwtBvIF-7UiCIx5AdaS5On1XuIbuWH4MaOJsgO1HGmxh8WPanKUSPEGtx2YZg8DmS1PP4HJTnkDRQlKekrfDHujS7tozl4tpWVUFpfAhtvzU3ZmfLZTxWZoLvF_4jdwe8/s400/DSCF1948.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694825171879755858" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMlMX4JQvGOgYCakUmNG7Qbe8W0sp_jXIhkZDsWZdSzoqiJRaa2FfMcgxcM0Xm5jmEOyGhuDzYsNJi7a81cIlhCMekqy4_YqR7NS0E4Gnsee2As3m4R-dicp6uuSWds4O8dPzK7XjVLA/s1600/DSCF1974.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMlMX4JQvGOgYCakUmNG7Qbe8W0sp_jXIhkZDsWZdSzoqiJRaa2FfMcgxcM0Xm5jmEOyGhuDzYsNJi7a81cIlhCMekqy4_YqR7NS0E4Gnsee2As3m4R-dicp6uuSWds4O8dPzK7XjVLA/s400/DSCF1974.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694825175093916242" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyySrFUfo3g4w86o9xqydUvh7CwX6l-0jjBX4x9Gup4Zxdm_la-O4VSnF2ggpS-yh51jZdL35StWNGdwoyf3h3sMSEmurRf04GXl76rSCpNYYfP73EIW8MMIJADT8OT0hKVg0LzDVR_nE/s1600/DSCF2030.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyySrFUfo3g4w86o9xqydUvh7CwX6l-0jjBX4x9Gup4Zxdm_la-O4VSnF2ggpS-yh51jZdL35StWNGdwoyf3h3sMSEmurRf04GXl76rSCpNYYfP73EIW8MMIJADT8OT0hKVg0LzDVR_nE/s400/DSCF2030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694825209946915410" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Q6pN5qFarzuyT3SZAd2cA79hiR0NDQBaJj1bwtBvS-IUMV2yDk0XTT_HQ2oTKWnbuiZwAFlNwGeX2sKUk2Axij-Q8AmEGd3MyloTZsQxW6IGcLXVVZ0364HoWM0MMgIqgrzOKAFkonc/s1600/DSCF2019.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Q6pN5qFarzuyT3SZAd2cA79hiR0NDQBaJj1bwtBvS-IUMV2yDk0XTT_HQ2oTKWnbuiZwAFlNwGeX2sKUk2Axij-Q8AmEGd3MyloTZsQxW6IGcLXVVZ0364HoWM0MMgIqgrzOKAFkonc/s400/DSCF2019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694825199601517154" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VkVJIaZhA0mgd91Gg7VAybKGUA6HZ9H9dIfalWnrJCe4tYr7iBpHh17ClvB6SaCRVBl1_FzysP-uvIQA5aTg6Cjatv4NFctLEDmdHGQJJK0KP97vrobsVoL8B-dIPKwdatEy8spCuhA/s1600/DSCF2020.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VkVJIaZhA0mgd91Gg7VAybKGUA6HZ9H9dIfalWnrJCe4tYr7iBpHh17ClvB6SaCRVBl1_FzysP-uvIQA5aTg6Cjatv4NFctLEDmdHGQJJK0KP97vrobsVoL8B-dIPKwdatEy8spCuhA/s400/DSCF2020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694827489073873442" border="0" /></a><br />They will be sorely missed, but luckily they are not too far away and we got to spend this amazing week with them and their puppy before they left. I'm so thankful for that! I wish them the hugest amount of luck, I am sure big things will happen for them, they really deserve it.Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-71621188732772904172011-08-21T10:07:00.002+01:002011-08-21T10:07:00.540+01:00Holiday Day 3Last night we went out to dinner and I saw the perfect chance to wear this lovely dress I was given as an end-of-year present from one of the parents at school. I also managed to have awesome hair and awesome make up. I was feeling fantastic and we had a wonderful meal :)
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29SKcVrRLTdnh9omagq1z5yuoKhUYMMXr6KOBdrt13l3J5by5mDJkEocrGZTUFC7-hs6jIfMjk85gJ9Htjmn6mNiqgK2fvphpNxfy589ZJ-WB_U35Q2bVwf4H_8PGM1yR0hPpYGJVh_Y/s1600/DSCF1143.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29SKcVrRLTdnh9omagq1z5yuoKhUYMMXr6KOBdrt13l3J5by5mDJkEocrGZTUFC7-hs6jIfMjk85gJ9Htjmn6mNiqgK2fvphpNxfy589ZJ-WB_U35Q2bVwf4H_8PGM1yR0hPpYGJVh_Y/s400/DSCF1143.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642997884095185010" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg99jZWsYIs9iAPfaMen456roLW7iie_b5CtZihFarStI0E9b81_aTzdi9uCn-_wTGFwDRAM9DBoXTfMiqbXKxPIrtl0XAYWosJdCr71NvWc9QrwVaMJFun7rcxiKVeZSnEdH4QQ5ua6w/s1600/DSCF1150.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg99jZWsYIs9iAPfaMen456roLW7iie_b5CtZihFarStI0E9b81_aTzdi9uCn-_wTGFwDRAM9DBoXTfMiqbXKxPIrtl0XAYWosJdCr71NvWc9QrwVaMJFun7rcxiKVeZSnEdH4QQ5ua6w/s400/DSCF1150.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642997887563425202" border="0" /></a>Beautiful night time coast
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2V2ibhGNdMc1kx-e4-Ozg7Uz8KbBPgKGq29EgM_PdEyJ_Czf0231xYPlq6LHDw12PmJJE39fQScNlbeE15qzQjnocMU-DUVqKzHt6XCotUr1VH8LcTRV0w9BRpJkKgXqC2clIbdIUoXQ/s1600/DSCF1153.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2V2ibhGNdMc1kx-e4-Ozg7Uz8KbBPgKGq29EgM_PdEyJ_Czf0231xYPlq6LHDw12PmJJE39fQScNlbeE15qzQjnocMU-DUVqKzHt6XCotUr1VH8LcTRV0w9BRpJkKgXqC2clIbdIUoXQ/s400/DSCF1153.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642997893358662050" border="0" /></a>The view from our balcony the same night.
<br /></div>
<br />We're sadly left Polignano yesterday and we're now in Ostuni in a cute little apartment on a tiny little street with a cool, but a little scary roof terrace (read roof!). More pics soon xx
<br />
<br />Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-71481820482775075672011-08-20T13:37:00.001+01:002011-08-20T13:37:00.484+01:00Holiday Day 2I got a camera for christmas last year and managed to break it within 3 months :( So I decided to buy a new one for my holiday. I was willing to spend between £80-£100 but for a mere £20 over budget (i.e. £120) I got a shockproof, dustproof, freezeproof and WATERPROOF camera!
<br />
<br />I was so exicted to try it out yesterday... although it made treading water a little difficult ;)
<br />
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiys6wJdRTTyDwmT3MuCLSaV7XjS6z93wQAGAE_7v8qhZxWRhzwLJXFFpQ2Q5DrzTYllO0WhEGHleMJReKrh29xVN46FxMcwx65lFhA-j9fdVSH0E3q9bukF0YahtQUeenNOXzG7Kqw4DA/s1600/DSCF1090.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiys6wJdRTTyDwmT3MuCLSaV7XjS6z93wQAGAE_7v8qhZxWRhzwLJXFFpQ2Q5DrzTYllO0WhEGHleMJReKrh29xVN46FxMcwx65lFhA-j9fdVSH0E3q9bukF0YahtQUeenNOXzG7Kqw4DA/s400/DSCF1090.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642548070971993138" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPADoug0Y1vedI6eZRmGCrwjpCpiCsry4pHBCLcGpEmcu7qs_hECwBGoRmtu71_eu9wXQSKRT5YZFeue-Li2-KDQMQTKNmmv2g-W2MeZkHghMeMLq_bEfJf4olqQUdeHJN-1AdhmCFlLI/s1600/DSCF1098.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPADoug0Y1vedI6eZRmGCrwjpCpiCsry4pHBCLcGpEmcu7qs_hECwBGoRmtu71_eu9wXQSKRT5YZFeue-Li2-KDQMQTKNmmv2g-W2MeZkHghMeMLq_bEfJf4olqQUdeHJN-1AdhmCFlLI/s400/DSCF1098.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642548069892904034" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfQtZThWDKICHc7HjaJ4-lGTi4At1R3Vkwqgjrr7Wh9EwDNpeB2UBkh4DfkfUDgXroy_YoKJwquwO2xhG5d_cHCZYVS941slCYjSwXVOFnxdwulMCTR1BZ3vgXahz418XQAvFwsLXUWo/s1600/DSCF1112.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfQtZThWDKICHc7HjaJ4-lGTi4At1R3Vkwqgjrr7Wh9EwDNpeB2UBkh4DfkfUDgXroy_YoKJwquwO2xhG5d_cHCZYVS941slCYjSwXVOFnxdwulMCTR1BZ3vgXahz418XQAvFwsLXUWo/s400/DSCF1112.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642548064074689218" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIA5VTwBLxSh3axeGl1H2T3r89EGg15tHBYqnwwiaq7SvXy_SGtyjq3m8tuH2pqoPnS97vdpu3SHish9eIaA3Wnyc8Wt_cbBHsdSp1idSJEEodoXGNeQ-3Z-6WIMlRdXOEaN0DD-onpt4/s1600/DSCF1122.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIA5VTwBLxSh3axeGl1H2T3r89EGg15tHBYqnwwiaq7SvXy_SGtyjq3m8tuH2pqoPnS97vdpu3SHish9eIaA3Wnyc8Wt_cbBHsdSp1idSJEEodoXGNeQ-3Z-6WIMlRdXOEaN0DD-onpt4/s400/DSCF1122.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642548060701346338" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVO3ZhYtPpL7eqyjHyO-fKUIPSzg0bdN7Ab_QmvlNCfx7YhKFTXVMFxhiRbS6PUzndFk9pt6T2XSWiv5nCa0RooOudphs8pxu7KcckAIuBj3_YhYDTMXs3oq7Vn1XLucEXi9xI6O0R2w/s1600/DSCF1121.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVO3ZhYtPpL7eqyjHyO-fKUIPSzg0bdN7Ab_QmvlNCfx7YhKFTXVMFxhiRbS6PUzndFk9pt6T2XSWiv5nCa0RooOudphs8pxu7KcckAIuBj3_YhYDTMXs3oq7Vn1XLucEXi9xI6O0R2w/s400/DSCF1121.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642548056990073202" border="0" /></a>The sea was lovely and warm and in the bf's words 'pleasant'. Wow, we're getting old!
<br /></div>
<br />Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-32255823515852300762011-08-19T13:16:00.005+01:002011-08-19T13:36:40.966+01:00Holiday!Yesterday was our first day on holiday... our <span style="font-style: italic;">real</span> holiday. We arrived in Polignano a Mare at around 2.30, checked into our hotel and then...
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyccdTKX7Ea67DUPUcXw2p4TMXHxxQji1ll-6q9NYG_PlDdrDn_h6ryFXOOUTGu5ZDzH7gNrKHFD_ZhEOsw1S-lPLZ0VYuGgvgkBvsvcILikal8ATwYhbGzwzFNBQjczG0MF-KtqFpw4/s1600/DSCF1053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyccdTKX7Ea67DUPUcXw2p4TMXHxxQji1ll-6q9NYG_PlDdrDn_h6ryFXOOUTGu5ZDzH7gNrKHFD_ZhEOsw1S-lPLZ0VYuGgvgkBvsvcILikal8ATwYhbGzwzFNBQjczG0MF-KtqFpw4/s400/DSCF1053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642543308228175410" border="0" /></a>We wandered through the old part of town which is beautiful.
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68MqCHozgu-PyBsihjuzgCJxzXStHc7Q2fjuYQu3Cs5wL7JNLXmDQ0cf2VbXn1ytCamtKEsOPNwg8OfQYaa046omzOrODcW4pte6MzMYu_7hjsYL8dxjFps0ajqALEAPWeHEkh2eZa_Q/s1600/DSCF1061.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68MqCHozgu-PyBsihjuzgCJxzXStHc7Q2fjuYQu3Cs5wL7JNLXmDQ0cf2VbXn1ytCamtKEsOPNwg8OfQYaa046omzOrODcW4pte6MzMYu_7hjsYL8dxjFps0ajqALEAPWeHEkh2eZa_Q/s400/DSCF1061.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642542017330866306" border="0" /></a>Stood at a few vantage points to take in the view.
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrryFysG5UQYwFQzg6q-_pf2r2AhNUAtCq7ZRCnfzopIBIiDHc9T6dCAhMZOJtSIVEvBwyYtAhwP-xLgTJlLKeqh1sIagNqA0wlvTf0AAU_ZobFadVhEzrt-ZFZVaqhQBdf1ZzuBYCes/s1600/DSCF1062.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrryFysG5UQYwFQzg6q-_pf2r2AhNUAtCq7ZRCnfzopIBIiDHc9T6dCAhMZOJtSIVEvBwyYtAhwP-xLgTJlLKeqh1sIagNqA0wlvTf0AAU_ZobFadVhEzrt-ZFZVaqhQBdf1ZzuBYCes/s400/DSCF1062.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642542020233850354" border="0" /></a>Stared in awe at the beautiful sea.
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPCrZH7tQ5B3TVeXQ7xmwCIOJWeP4AJqts9e4UJ0k5-C_Uu688rGpWQ7cTUjYK745VU8_FhffKnE8vvigqojbbLGp5VKkEVAhbpMkqyHcMZaBV3LomM4NcHOM2o2csT8vn4J7m3X1qtI/s1600/DSCF1070.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPCrZH7tQ5B3TVeXQ7xmwCIOJWeP4AJqts9e4UJ0k5-C_Uu688rGpWQ7cTUjYK745VU8_FhffKnE8vvigqojbbLGp5VKkEVAhbpMkqyHcMZaBV3LomM4NcHOM2o2csT8vn4J7m3X1qtI/s400/DSCF1070.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642542029071786914" border="0" /></a>Had a little break from the heat with some TV
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICWu_Jn4sxUVN3Jwhf0NU6HzN-YMDtKXPOW9V07gh9NB3nT36rdcIUJuRoE0-YYauQf4unalAvd6fw0oHG62wPZD_Gug13SbbN9y_LS14oeo2zfp9J6fE8avoq2bFV2h18fV8i-xAXsg/s1600/DSCF1082.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICWu_Jn4sxUVN3Jwhf0NU6HzN-YMDtKXPOW9V07gh9NB3nT36rdcIUJuRoE0-YYauQf4unalAvd6fw0oHG62wPZD_Gug13SbbN9y_LS14oeo2zfp9J6fE8avoq2bFV2h18fV8i-xAXsg/s400/DSCF1082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642542031553417570" border="0" /></a>Then got dressed up and went out for dinner and drinks.
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">I definitely do not regret buying my new camera. It's awesome, as you'll see more evidence of tomorrow ;) xx
<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-42372093154403467322011-06-19T10:38:00.003+01:002011-06-19T10:58:39.453+01:00I'm not deadI've just spent well over an hour trying to catch up on the goings on of my favourite bloggers. IT's been nearly 2.5 months since I posted here and nearly the same amount of time since I even logged into blogger!<br /><br />I can't even remember all of the awesome and awful things that have happened in the past few months, but here are a few to whet your appetite<br /><br />+ We had amazing sunshine in April and May, I've got a fabulous base tan and serious white bits ;)<br />- June has been pretty crappy by comparison with thunderstorms a go-go<br />+ Random hail storms aren't so bad when you get stuck huddling for shelter with crazy rockers while drinking wine and amaretto<br />+ I spent a glorious Sunday in May lounging on a huge rock at the beach, dipping in and out of the warm Adriatic and soaking up the sun and beach life<br />- I did get a little sunburned that day due to not having anyone to properly apply sunscreen to my back<br />- I got a really bad chest infection aroud this time, coupled with an inexpicable skin rash. The infection has gone and the rash is going away, but leaving little patches of pale, untanned skin instead. I feel a little like a leper.<br />+ I have a second job working after school with one of the kids from my class<br />- This is making me very, very tired :(<br />- This past week at work has been the most stressful and emotionally draining since September<br />+ Me and my californian colleague have been singing our way through the days to help keep spirits up... think musical episode of a bad sit-com<br />+ The school year is nearly over and we're all excited to get a proper break<br />+ The girls and myself are finally going to use our spa vouchers NEXT SATURDAY! This means I am going to lose my massage virginity, once and for all YAY!<br />+ The parents from our class gave us gift cards to a department store at our end of year party, shopping and spa? Hell yeah!<br />+ I've been indulging in coffee and pastries for breakfast most mornings<br />- This is not helping the weightloss<br />+ I bit the bullet and am wearing shorts for the first time in my adult life!<br />+ I got my haircut a few weeks ago and it looked like this...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7OERS-2Wrlvyr-khxJbYDdq404dscFaD_me3EhEK7RaQpCNGtXTXI4zS83i-pQNQGE57LICq8LQXsbp3BGME31BhzYzMqzyrQC9dq5LYf8v4Fy8QtlGjuejCu9uUnUzv1Xvuik4bGB4/s1600/Snapshot_20110528_3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7OERS-2Wrlvyr-khxJbYDdq404dscFaD_me3EhEK7RaQpCNGtXTXI4zS83i-pQNQGE57LICq8LQXsbp3BGME31BhzYzMqzyrQC9dq5LYf8v4Fy8QtlGjuejCu9uUnUzv1Xvuik4bGB4/s400/Snapshot_20110528_3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619867693246668370" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7UfoFGoSc3F4fgUyT5t8StBYNlhcy3-Z9feYpxnTWnMQ1HSBdyfsXwBRPlFzMYwNMc4CKBrz2dK8Eo8RB2Xz24sCjqS-vTkOt0kJZ0YV1Ursr5rVZwkcrxwI8fwwjRk0KKjJMXwIjY8/s1600/Snapshot_20110528_2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7UfoFGoSc3F4fgUyT5t8StBYNlhcy3-Z9feYpxnTWnMQ1HSBdyfsXwBRPlFzMYwNMc4CKBrz2dK8Eo8RB2Xz24sCjqS-vTkOt0kJZ0YV1Ursr5rVZwkcrxwI8fwwjRk0KKjJMXwIjY8/s400/Snapshot_20110528_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619867694538970866" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkT6kYD_JFEIHv0FjAFaBUQXgOkMa2fWehnr-G4I4MCxVwXHZCeTuJfQbOVMa9X6aTa_NiKFA9FZ1a1bLCbniv2V4GAaTGjxveeL9hjg-WNpxbdNLQNupfN45g5OJU7iP-CjNIfF4Ofw/s1600/Snapshot_20110528_1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkT6kYD_JFEIHv0FjAFaBUQXgOkMa2fWehnr-G4I4MCxVwXHZCeTuJfQbOVMa9X6aTa_NiKFA9FZ1a1bLCbniv2V4GAaTGjxveeL9hjg-WNpxbdNLQNupfN45g5OJU7iP-CjNIfF4Ofw/s400/Snapshot_20110528_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619867691644916258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSMrYgVLiyLg-WGCxZ6Ryi-c4M-G-ArKWwdfT1V7wvAN1lNTAPc-Vx5UbW8bG2QeJ_y8RIYKkbGwTtBGy-o47iN7fYKOaZ19YAUBDvusAvXmH4f778X3aVTvBw0L-u7udothPAIyCOTM/s1600/Snapshot_20110528.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSMrYgVLiyLg-WGCxZ6Ryi-c4M-G-ArKWwdfT1V7wvAN1lNTAPc-Vx5UbW8bG2QeJ_y8RIYKkbGwTtBGy-o47iN7fYKOaZ19YAUBDvusAvXmH4f778X3aVTvBw0L-u7udothPAIyCOTM/s400/Snapshot_20110528.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619867690001777170" border="0" /></a><br />although, it's now a fair bit longer, I still flippin love it! :D<br /><br />That is all for now. Hopefully it won't be another 2 months before I post!Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-7969034953932201692011-04-05T08:46:00.000+01:002011-04-05T08:53:13.735+01:00Some things that have happened in the past 6 weeks...<ul><li>Work has been crazy... crazy colleague driving everyone nuts, preapring for and executing parents meetings, changing panels, updating child info etc.</li><li>I sacrificed a sunny saturday for training at work - BOOOO!<br /></li><li>But then got thoroughly drunk afterwards with work mates - YAY!</li><li>I broke my camera, which was less than 3 months old at the time. Not happy.<br /></li><li>I bought myself a couple of new, summery tops</li><li>The bf's best friend came to visit us from Germany</li><li>We saw 'Italy in Chocolate' as part of the chocolate festival in Turin<br /></li><li>The bf and I have been invited to ROME for easter :D</li><li>I keep spending too much money each month</li><li>I am trying to let go of the negative and embrace the positive</li><li>I have conjuncivitis and so I am not at work (I'm going to soak up some sun on the balocny again today!)</li></ul>forgive my absence. I will try harder next time :)Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-42365145415782040832011-02-24T20:25:00.002+00:002011-02-24T20:33:19.564+00:00Best compliment ever?I had a tummy bug. I dropped 8lbs in 4 days. Of course, I've regained some of that. Well, around 2.5lbs anyway. Seeing as I have mostly survived on coffee and chocolate this week, I can't imagine that I will keep that weight off for much longer... <br /><br />However, last Saturday we decided, hell yeah, why don't we just get on a train and go to Turin to have dinner with the bf's parents? I mean, it's not like we don't have tonnes of stuff to do at home (as always) and it's not as if we can really afford the tain fares, but heck, you only live once right? And it was a flipping good dinner! <br /><br />Sorry, I digress. <br /><br />We were at dinner, I was already pretty tipsy and decided to chance getting up to go to the toilet before we left so I wasn't busting by the time we got home and had to face the inevitable queue for the bathroom. When I returned to the table, the bf leaned over and told me that his Dad had called me a grissino as I got up to leave. <br /><br />A <span style="font-style:italic;">grissino</span>? I hear you cry! <br /><br />Yes, a grissino, also known as a breadstick. It's apparently the Italian term for someone who is slim. Now, I don't think I am slim, by any stretch of the imagination, but I am starting to resemble what I consider a "normal person's shape" and I'm a mere 5lbs off a 'healthy' BMI, which is exciting, although pretty abstract and meaningless all the same. <br /><br />But, seriously, I am so going to take that compliment and use it to keep me going through all my chocolate cravings (and consumption). Me? A grissino? You ain't seen nothing yet ;)Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-5441277910942184962011-02-13T16:11:00.002+00:002011-02-13T16:34:39.167+00:00Things that have happened...This Tuesday gone was mine and the bf's 6 year anniversary.<br /><br />He sent a text to my colleague telling her to keep me at work for as long as possible and then surprised me by turning up at my workplace when I finished and whisking me off to a 5* hotel in Milan. We hung out there for a while and then went to a fancy seafood restaurant for dinner, where we had the freshest oysters ever and drank a little too much wine. I was treated like a princess and best of all I got to have a lie in because our hotel was in Milan and so I didn't have make my commute that morning. Best boyfriend ever xx<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lvwhgYrv3taH0uD_F0THT7fsBMlLcpMlbe10KEH5Jj5tUoKt4WmqubjsPDZvHzBJU3XyIU0QY-Qdjx26mexnJVP97wHMzfUqUa8RN0Im7ba73wBlBYXsZaualrImKGl6cqYmlrCpIW0/s1600/SAM_0138.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lvwhgYrv3taH0uD_F0THT7fsBMlLcpMlbe10KEH5Jj5tUoKt4WmqubjsPDZvHzBJU3XyIU0QY-Qdjx26mexnJVP97wHMzfUqUa8RN0Im7ba73wBlBYXsZaualrImKGl6cqYmlrCpIW0/s400/SAM_0138.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573208134417530866" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(pic was taken 3 weeks ago... the only pic I got on the night wasn't all that good)<br /></span></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-68683697268424738772011-01-23T19:35:00.003+00:002011-01-23T19:41:16.199+00:00New HairI have a confession, it didn't come out exactly how I imagined....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tb9XpwTobxjps2-LAEfVqtii5aheIJf31AJnf2P8iFFI2jwZXh5R9fwzktbd71OT_fVtOSoz_W8Ly0Q8vTEndMXIFq6DjuK6WgzhtspGj5tEWkR55ZFJ9fscI2K0AeEXgLrz-FEqBNI/s1600/Snapshot_20110122.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tb9XpwTobxjps2-LAEfVqtii5aheIJf31AJnf2P8iFFI2jwZXh5R9fwzktbd71OT_fVtOSoz_W8Ly0Q8vTEndMXIFq6DjuK6WgzhtspGj5tEWkR55ZFJ9fscI2K0AeEXgLrz-FEqBNI/s400/Snapshot_20110122.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565468298597307634" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthkfSiU9mfiOajWGB_e7pcH4rGh0-LQQjve-R3fW9FLdaueOvqrye7hjF2VM6WJ6Frpc5R2iQ8BmuMW-LxWQkrribsnhHDnxvoivMyDMzVycH4ovctA7fWavqTA-2hpgOfsNRrvFs6pA/s1600/Snapshot_20110122_1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthkfSiU9mfiOajWGB_e7pcH4rGh0-LQQjve-R3fW9FLdaueOvqrye7hjF2VM6WJ6Frpc5R2iQ8BmuMW-LxWQkrribsnhHDnxvoivMyDMzVycH4ovctA7fWavqTA-2hpgOfsNRrvFs6pA/s400/Snapshot_20110122_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565468302583285506" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5scY_x0t47hzdOq3TyuCAByL7m4vAyL4wSj-GWFAn_FLDmjSpDSfLp8ToPHPjVY0vmc9pHVxKjgwV_d9y4vwuPIc24G9aw8y3gbkI9Ux4VCTDy2hjmVRupOmIZBRoVADwvXQuPr6KQP8/s1600/Snapshot_20110122_3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5scY_x0t47hzdOq3TyuCAByL7m4vAyL4wSj-GWFAn_FLDmjSpDSfLp8ToPHPjVY0vmc9pHVxKjgwV_d9y4vwuPIc24G9aw8y3gbkI9Ux4VCTDy2hjmVRupOmIZBRoVADwvXQuPr6KQP8/s400/Snapshot_20110122_3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565468306620625202" border="0" /></a><br />...it looks way better and I love it!Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-13536743781166814172011-01-22T10:00:00.000+00:002011-01-22T10:00:01.783+00:00P.SRight about now, I should be getting my hair chopped off. Wish me luck ;)Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9195770743560720788.post-8447378788213360602011-01-19T18:45:00.002+00:002011-01-19T19:01:48.572+00:00Gatrecrashing.Something pretty big and awesome happened to me during the month of December. I solidified real friendships, outside of work. It may sound pretty small to other people, but without friends, it just didn't feel like I lived here. Sure I have a job, I commute, we rent a flat and have it almost fully furnished, but there was something missing. Now there isn't (*ahem* apart from a puppy).<br /><br />Over the short period I spent in London, I only managed to get my act together and see one of my friends, who actually came up from Brighton to spend the day with me and the bf. We spent the afternoon in a couple of typical British pubs - read dark and dingey - and it was lovely to see him again.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorguRtWCY_BAfcurXmuOG6gjMnnj0E2HjcxtrO762PSZNwXQmvhFLObKp8R2-OmrUdh5gRw_WNuYybMcI9JO9DJ83_A9xkNZDQyDMAWV1-Nf8YRw3xtmh7g9Fha7ew-gd9Ms7hjCen4c/s1600/SAM_0028.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorguRtWCY_BAfcurXmuOG6gjMnnj0E2HjcxtrO762PSZNwXQmvhFLObKp8R2-OmrUdh5gRw_WNuYybMcI9JO9DJ83_A9xkNZDQyDMAWV1-Nf8YRw3xtmh7g9Fha7ew-gd9Ms7hjCen4c/s400/SAM_0028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563972449298547010" border="0" /></a>Me and Dan being goofy.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNu3aBaumlFXiUIuJ-tdt8HbC6_tLkgQigrsZVqQQ52Bkrvt5X630SvZ6sKDPWQmMxlv22ABI81XZnIVbdgJHPklaopBXW_VhKOS6vExMwAibW-a1NxWgLLYo31WFV5gDM8jgEREXDPw/s1600/SAM_0029.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNu3aBaumlFXiUIuJ-tdt8HbC6_tLkgQigrsZVqQQ52Bkrvt5X630SvZ6sKDPWQmMxlv22ABI81XZnIVbdgJHPklaopBXW_VhKOS6vExMwAibW-a1NxWgLLYo31WFV5gDM8jgEREXDPw/s400/SAM_0029.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563972443572437874" border="0" /></a>Being equally goofy but not on purpose ;)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Last weekend me and the bf got totally trashed with some friends here by going to see live music, making friends with the band, accidentally crashing their after party and getting 4 rounds of drinks for free. A nice, cheap and entertaining night. I've still not recovered from the lack of sleep! Sadly, I forgot my camera, so no stupid drunken photos to share :(<br /><br />I love having friends here, but I still miss my oldies from 'home'. I hope you all miss me as much!<br /></div></div>Riahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16939743627183400227noreply@blogger.com0