Age Like Fine Wine (Part 3)

F21 Sweater, Banana Republic Shirt, Two by Vince Camuto Pants, Converse Sneakers (not pictured), Vintage Crossbody

(Awestruck by the beauty of Epesses and Lake Geneva)

The most beautiful sights of my trip were in Bordeaux, France, and Epesses, Switzerland. I couldn't wrap my head around the fact that people live in these places and see the jaw-dropping landscapes and architecture everyday. I could walk around aimlessly and never get bored. 

In terms of my wine education, my visit to Epesses introduced me to the best white wines I've ever had. I almost always prefer red wines to white wines, but once I had a taste of Chasselas made by my friend Rea's family-owned wine company, I was hooked. Sadly, I'm not sure when I'll get to taste such delicious (and affordable) white wine again, but I'm glad I finally found a white wine that I'll happily drink :)

Age Like Fine Wine (Part 2)

Lucca Couture Dress, J. Crew Skirt, Converse Sneakers, Vintage Crossbody

(Hanging out with a machine ant at the Machines of the Isle of Nantes exhibit)

My second vlog contains all of my adventures in Nantes, France. Nantes marked my first time actually traveling alone and my first (ever) wine tour. Unfortunately, I didn't take the time to make sure my old beat-up Converse were fit for walking all day, so I ended up with horribly blistered heels and ankles for most of my trip. Thankfully, all of the sales in France were happening while I was there, so I picked up a cheap pair of sandals at the local Zara. My feet were so relieved! Note to self when traveling: pack appropriate footwear. Contrary to what I was told, people in France do wear sandals and shorts during the summer, so don't make my mistake of not packing either of those items...

Whirlwind

I'm back again -- 3 months later. Spring semester has ended, and I'm relieved and happy to be on a real summer break (no summer classes this time!). Instead, I'll be spending my days studying for the PCAT and working, but I'm not complaining. In terms of events, I have very high hopes for this summer; highlights include Free Press Summer Fest, my cousin's wedding + family vacation, and my dream trip to France to learn about its culture of wine and wine production. I still can't believe the last part is happening -- already booked my tickets!

It's crazy to think I only have one more semester left of undergrad. After attending the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2014 (shout-out to two of my dearest friends for graduating), I know I'm going to be in tears when it's my turn. My friends and I are already planning on making senior year as exciting and meaningful as possible; got to go out with a bang.

Just to recap on my hopes from the beginning of 2014, I'm proud to say I'm officially Yelp Elite!, and my Alternative Spring Break trip to the Everglades National Park in Florida was nothing short of exhilarating and rewarding. I'm pleased that I actually accomplished goals this year instead of just setting them. A great score on my PCAT would be icing on the cake... crossing my fingers.

Here are some snapshots from the past couple of months

(waking up to breathtaking sunrise in the Everglades)

(the best Cinco de Mayo celebration)

(Yelp Elite! event at Texas de Brazil; I also opted for a shorter haircut for summer)

(relaxing in Destin to celebrate the end of junior year)

 (fantastic firework show at the 101st Commencement)

A Series of Glasses

 (an adorable bottle of moscato c/o of a dear friend)

 (Galentine's celebration toast)

 (perfectly petite collins glasses at Mongoose vs. Cobra)

This past weekend was absolutely delightful. I had a completely packed week of school before I could unwind at our second annual Galentine's Day celebration. Last year we went out to a restaurant to celebrate, so this year we decided to make it more low-key. We planned to have a pizza + wine tasting at our apartment and invited a great group of ladies to celebrate with us. The dress code was to wear something that makes you feel confident, and it ended up working out pretty well. It was the best ending to a long week.

I realize the more I go out and explore restaurants and bars, the more I pay attention to the glassware they use. It's gotten to the point where I'm making a mental checklist in my head of all the assorted glassware I want for my future home (I'm planning way into the future here). Hopefully solo cups will be a thing of the past by then!