Liebster Award - I've been nominated! :D

Say what? Liebster Award? A slightly different post by me today as you can see. The Liebster Award is a bloggers' buzzword, something that the majority will encounter during their writing adventures. It's our version of the YouTube tag I guess you could say, although the word "award" to it makes it sound quite professional! 

So thank you She Is Unstoppable for the generous nomination (who I must also add has a fantastic blog with food, travel and fashion posts/ photos -- click here for her blog). Here's my response to your questions:

1.   Are you in a relationship?

Am currently happy, healthy and single, so no.

2.   What's your blog about?

All the wacky things that go on in my life, with emphasis on travel (mainly around the UK), food (especially baking) and fashion. I do a couple of reviews on theater shows and events I go to. What can I say? I’m a somewhat interesting person :P

3.  Why do you start blogging?

Relaxation and de-stressing from uni work (seriously it helps). Plus it’s a good way for me to keep in touch with my family and friends.

4.  Are you satisfied of your life? What do you do right now?

Satisfaction is something I still strive for. Literally speaking, I am responding to this question right now (but career wise I am still hunting for the right opportunity).

5. Do you follow any tv- series? Which one is your favourite?

Silk (English law and drama – gotta love this combo)

6.  What is your main goal in life?

Still searching for it, will let you know via Facebook and Twitter when I’ve find it (am looking at becoming successful in something..).

7.Where will you go on holiday?

Next week will be Japan! <3

8. Which is your worst vice? 

My temper (mom calls me a rigid creature)

9. If you can choose a book to live in, which will be? Why?

Harry Potter – magic of course!

10.  Do you believe in this kind of tag? Do you think it can be helpful for your blog?

Definitely, it’s helped me appreciate the blogs that other people create, which can help me determine how to improve my own, as well as getting to know them. Live on Liebster Awards!

In order to keep the Liebster Award trend thing going, here's my five nominations (all of whom have sensational and inspiring blogs btw, click on their names to check them out!):

1) Krysti Encounters 

2) Minnie Mouse Chic

3) Nutellablogger

4) Mbcos

5) flourishingpetal

For you five fabulous bloggers, here's 10 fun questions from moi:

1) If you could be anything, what would you be?

2) Chocolate or Vanilla? Why?

3) Dogs or Cats? Why?

4) Blogger or blog you look up to?

5) Most difficult part about maintaining a blog?

6) Ultimate goal in life?

7) Favorite band/singer?

8) Name of celebrity you'd like to meet (if you got the chance to)?

9) Where do you usually get your inspiration from for new blog posts?

10) Fun fact about yourself.

I hope I've managed to follow the instructions correctly (fingers crossed!). Good luck to all my lovely nominees! Looking forward to reading your answers :D 

Miss Vogue's Warm Blueberry Cakes (Pudding)

Usually when I read Vogue, the first thing I head for is the section that tells you what the latest trends and styles are through a visual gallery boasting a kaleidoscopic array of colors. I think much less about any recipes it recommends, mainly because I'd much prefer to go to an online recipe site or foodie magazine. However, I do think it's important to read openly, especially since you might be in for a delightful treat. In this case, Miss Vogue's Warm Blueberry Cake (or lil' pudding) was definitely a scrumptiously sweet surprise (alliteration for literature geeks). Of course blueberries go well in anything in my opinion, especially in cakes. For this recipe however, it acted as a sort of syrup (think sticky toffee pudding except made with water, sugar and blueberries). The amount of water it asked for was considerably higher than the value allocated to the cream and self-raising flour. Having baked quite a bit myself before, I was slightly skeptical at these numbers. Nevertheless, Miss. Vogue definitely proved me wrong; my worries about the recipe failing quickly evaporated as soon as my eyes were met with the golden scented heart that stood in front of me as the oven door was opened.

A light and somewhat healthy dessert option for those that are wary of their weight - that's how I'd summarize it.

Recipe from:
http://www.vogue.co.uk/miss-vogue/whats-up/2015/03/warm-blueberry-cake-recipe

Aloha from Hawaii, Tips from a Local

Hello Lovelies!

Just based on that, you might be thinking, "who is this?  This isn't the normal post..." and well, you're right!  I'm Krysti from KrystiEncounters and I've had the most awesome opportunity to work with Tiffany, here at TheAmatureAnthropologist.  We decided to do guest posts for each other and if you would like to see what she posted on my blog, take a look here (http://krystiencounters.com/2014/08/25/durham-england-travel-tips-from-the-amateur-anthropologist). Our post is going to talk about where we come from and some places you should come check out if you're ever in the area / places to add to your bucket list.

As you can guess by the title, I live in Hawaii, but more specifically, on the island of Oahu.  I must say that it is a really beautiful place to live and I am very lucky to be able to bask in the sun and share the Aloha Spirit with those I come across. 

​If you're visiting during an Eat The Street event, I would totally go--it usually falls on a Friday.  It's usually crowded and it's cash only for most, if not all, the food truck vendors, but it's totally worth it.  You can expect to pay close to $50 per person on all the food you're most likely going to be eating (bring an appetite!).  If I were you, I would share the food with whomever you attend this event with, that way you can try out more of the ono (delicious) grindz (food).  Some of the food is a specialty the vendors are making only for that night, and you may never see them again, so get your fill, and don't forget to ask the vendors which one you have to try while you can.  You can check out my post here on the latest Eat The Street event I went to.  You can also check out their Facebook and Instagram.

If you're coming to Hawaii, or thinking about it, it's probably for the beautiful scenery, right?  I would recommend hitting up the North Shore side of the island to watch a sunset, at least once.  No matter how long I've lived here, I can't get past how breathtaking the sunsets are.  Just be careful as North Shore becomes a hot spot for sunsets and it could be hard to find parking; but don't fret too much, there's plenty beach to go around.  I recommend going about two or three hours before sunset and wade in the water or sunbathe as there will be less hectic tourists trying to frantically find parking / a good spot.

If you're into shopping, I would check out the outlet stores of Waikele before hitting the department stores in the tourist hotspots like Waikiki; don't get me wrong, Waikele is jam packed with tourists as well, but it's still an outlet store with great deals.  It's currently under construction so I apologize for the lack of pictures to show you a little more.  I think my favorite is Charlotte Russe and of course the occasional Coach.

Close by to where I live, is a newly opened place I love to eat breakfast; Rise and Shine Cafe.  Yum! I haven't gotten to try all their food yet, but rest assure, I will try.  My favorite so far was their french toast.  My friend's favorite wasn't the eggs benedict, but the potatoes it came with.

Hope can find the time to come out here one day!  Oh, and don't forget, if you're not used to being out in the sun, or a harsher sun than that of where you live, don't forget to bring a higher SPF!  If you manage to get sunburnt, go to a local drugstore and pick up Aloe Gel, as it will work wonders and feels great!

Aloha, and <3 Always,

Krysti

Profile of the (truly) amazing Krysti

Krysti is a 21 year old blogger who runs KrystiEncounters, mainly a beauty, fashion, and lifestyle blog.  The blog started as a hobby and a small space to express herself and has since expanded to be a little more organized and include other topics.  She lives on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii and loves to spread the 'Aloha Spirit' to those she meets.  Krysti is currently in University hoping to get her Bachelors in Business Administration, focusing more on marketing and is hoping to get a Social Media Marketing position in the future.

Side note from The Amateur Anthropologist

Well folks I hope you enjoyed this very special blog post from one of the best and nicest bloggers I've ever met. Make sure that you go and say hi to her if you're ever in Hawaii.

Remember,

Live, Love, & Learn

x

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

“Cause you had a bad day”

A day at the beach

I always emphasize the fact that I use travel as an excuse to get away from reality, to enjoy myself and to discover something new. There’s no doubt that with all that to look forward to comes immense excitement. You might therefore think that my life’s always rosy and sweet.

Well, in truth, it’s not.

Being optimistic constantly is what I strive for, but sometimes it’s hard to maintain. Sadness is equally a part of my life as is happiness. It might have been because of a pointless argument, the inclement weather or simply the cliché of walking into a pole (which I have to admit, does happen to me frequently and is, obviously, painful). Whatever the reason, I have a bad day every so often. So rather than crying to myself over the spilt milk or munching down bars of chocolate in the hope of suddenly feeling better due to a sugar rush, I head to Saltburn.

Arriving in Saltburn

Teardrops-by-the-Sea

Sometimes it’s hard to hold the tears back, even in such a colorful and cheerful place like Saltburn. I guess it’s fair to say that I usually start off feeling absolutely gray and stay like that up until I reach the entrance welcoming me to this seaside haven.

The entrance to Saltburn

After entering, it’s difficult not to start feeling slightly peachy even just by looking at all the quirky shops, the architectural splendor of the funicular railway (aka. The Saltburn Cliff Lift), and spectrum of colors created by the natural, seaside scenery itself. Don't believe me? Just have a look yourself.

Stonehouse Bakery

Book Corner

Shop window of D.V. Townend & Co.

And yes there have been times when I’ve carried my tears with me all the way down to the beach itself. But they don’t last long, oh no. They’re easily swept away by the ocean waves and seaside breeze.

The cyclists

Pastels and sun

The Saltburn Cliff Lift

The routine

One step at a time

There’s nothing wrong with being spontaneous. Spontaneity is like a flame that essentially ignites any sort of adventure. But when I’m not in the mood for that sort of spark, I like to stick to my same old routine. This basically consists of a long and quiet stroll along the beach, followed by a vanilla ice-cream whilst gazing out to where the sky kisses the sea. And if there’s time, I’ll be taking pictures of the latest creations crafted by the mysterious Saltburn Pier yarnbombers plus something with a hint of quirk and color.

What I wore to Saltburn

Suntanning yarn plushies

It’s as comforting as a mug of creamy hot cocoa on a cold, winter’s night.

But remember, problems should be solved and not avoided. So after I feel rejuvenated and ready to go home to face reality, I end my journey by taking a relaxing trip back up to the train station via the Victorian cliff lift.

One last look before I say goodbye

Saltburn-by-the-Sea: a charming British seaside resort town for most, and a place of solace for me.

x

In conversation with Indre Jakumaite, designer & owner of "Alexa Jay"

“生命影響生命”

Wise words from the mother of yours truly that essentially mean one’s life can impact another. Simple but meaningful, I think that one of the best things about making new friends is, quite honestly, the inspiration they bring you. Be it about a new challenge or a new way of thinking, I find that a significant part of my life is created by all the people I have met and their unique personalities. On this occasion, I had the privilege of getting to know, through a good friend of mine, fashion’s latest hip and fab handbag designer, Indre Jakumaite.

Created by t-i-v-a-s-u-r-a-d-e-j on Polyvore

Jakumaite is the owner and designer of the brand, Alexa Jay. Starting only 2 years ago, this London-based brand is well known for its beautiful accessories in stunning statement colors and elegant classic styles. With a hint of playfulness, the products often evoke printed motifs and interesting textures, two of the utmost important themes that constantly inspire Jakumaite.

So what exactly is the story behind the name “Alexa Jay”?

“Initially, we started the business with #IJ, but soon realized that it didn't work. It took us quite a few glasses of bubbly to get the juices flowing and to come up with a new name. We wanted it to be personal and meaningful to us, so my partner and I decided to play with our names and their sounds. Thus Alexa Jay was born.”

And who is this “Alexa Jay” girl you might ask?

“She’s a happy and busy city woman, with an iPhone in one hand and coffee in the other (and occasionally a cupcake!). She loves fashion but isn’t necessarily fashion led, and likes to go for playful looks that are elegant, classy, and in bright, statement colors. She’s keen on high-end trends with a mid-price point. Last but not least, she’s well-travelled, educated, and career-orientated but still has time for socializing, relationships, and caring for her own appearance and home.”

The girls of ALEXA JAY

I personally think that’s the kind of woman ALL women (including myself) should aspire to be.

But it’s not simply the Alexa Jay girl that I found inspiring, oh no. It was her creator, Jakumaite herself. Having a background in HR, she made a daring move by quitting her job and buying an industrial sewing machine to begin designing and making handbags. Her passion for fashion has allowed her to experience the two most “adventurous” years of her life. With the help of her mentor, Donna Ida Thornton, the founder of the denim boutique Donna Ida, Jakumaite has gained success in marketing her brand such that Alexa Jay products are now available both online and in numerous stores, notably Anthropologie in Selfridges, and has even made it to the designer spotlight of the infamous Marie Claire magazine (issue May 2014 to be more precise!). Her ending remarks? “I love what I do and so my business is a great source of pride and pleasure.”

Inspirational? I think yes.

Reach for the stars and be open. Let the experience of others influence your life.

And remember

Be “flirtatiously colorful.”

x

For more details about or to purchase items from Alexa Jay visit:

Web: http://alexajay.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlexaJayHandbags?ref=hl

Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexajay_bags

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/AlexaJayBags/

Alexa Jay products can also be found at:

·         Anthropologie (King’s Road, Regents Street, Bath, Guildford, Westfield, Selfridges and online)

·         The Mercantile (Spitalfields)

·         Kristina Goes West (online)

·         Lolly & Mitch (Hertfordshire – from November) 

Le Weekender - Issue 1

Snapshots of my weekend

I won’t say that my typical weekend is usually jam-packed with a diverse range of events – Saturday 28^th and Sunday 29^th just so happened to be the exceptions.

The Glitter Ball

Heaven's lights

And for me, any weekend, be it exciting or boring, HAS to include good food (see below):

Scrambled eggs in a tea-cup (aka. how a grand day should start); recipe upon request :)

Cheese and mushroom croissant and a grande sized hot chocolate with whipped cream - dieting can wait :)

Fashion in Durham ‘14

Basically summarizes the whole gist of the extravaganza that lasted a whole 5 days. For me, it started off on Friday night with canapés, cocktails and shopkeepers displaying the latest trends in the jewelry industry.

Simply stunning

The tubfa (bath-tub + sofa)

Too cute!! #themugwump

Personally, I thought one of the highlights was the display-windows - each were unique and cleverly decorated with a whole range of trendy pieces from local, Durham boutiques.

Trendin' in Durham

To top it off, the organizers of “the Glitter Ball” had hired a fashion illustrator to produce professional sketches of the guests for free (and upon request/ queuing up of course!).

Obviously I had to get mine done (especially since I was wearing my new maxi dress).

A special someone decided to join in/ invade my professional fashion sketch done by the amazing Melissa Bailey

Sunday was Durham does Thrift accompanied with city-center catwalks – I didn’t take any pictures (the camera decided to, quite inconveniently, die/ run out of battery life just before I left the house). Nevertheless, I felt it was a great way to end fashion week – definitely looking forward to another great one next year!

Fashion in Durham '14

Liverpool – A sneak-peek of Saturday

I shan’t say much more than the above (otherwise it’ll ruin my upcoming blog post!). If you’re ever in Liverpool (and if you’re not planning on visiting, I suggest you change your mind – literally), look out for the Superlambananas (see below); they’re simply ADORABLE.

Superlambanana :D

In a nutshell, you can never get bored in this metropolitan hub.

Tees Barrage – the Sunday Stroll

Was, in truth, a complete accident – I had been heading to the swimming pool…until I realized I left my towel at home. 

I then got changed for the gym but ended up crossing the Infinity Bridge and heading towards TeesBarrage International White Water Centre where young kayakers were eagerly waiting for the signal to head-off on their journey around the course.

Morning stroll down the infinite pathway

It was truly inspirational – I’m definitely going to try white-water rafting one day (when it’s warmer of course!).

And with such a spectacular and natural scene, I think it’s fair to say that I had the best start to a beautiful Sunday and a wonderful ending to another fantastic week.

Natural perfection

Love is an open door

Love is an open door by t-i-v-a-s-u-r-a-d-e-j featuring high heel pumps

Special Post - Fashion in Durham

Like what? A special post? You bet. Fashion in Durham's this week and there's a heck lotta events on ranging from catwalks, samples sales to after parties with special celebrity guests. I'd been working with the organization that's hosting this fashion extravaganza for a while in many different fields. One of the things I did was design the goody bag. I may be an amateur anthropologist, but I didn't say that I wasn't a fashion illustration addict/ lover/ somewhat-amateur. 

Female figure - first drawn on paper

Photoshop treatment - I present to you the final female figure (and yes that is my name on the top - parts of it because I've cut some bits off to make it shorter :-)

And soooo, after many sleepless nights of drafting and planning (all of which I enjoyed - art to me can NEVER be a hassle or a stressful thing to complete), I came up with the goody's bag final design which involved a mix of photos showing Durham's highlights and my drawings/ fashion illustrations. And I am very pleased/ touched/ proud to say that the manufacturing of my goody bag came out perfectly/ out of my expectations. I think this all really does go to show that hard work eventually does pay off - even if it isn't immediately.

The final logo - designed and drawn by me :)

My The goody bag!

If anyone is around Durham (England), please come along to our events! The timetable of the events can be accessed here: www.fashionindurham.co.uk