New York in Pictures

Last week I took my first actual personal trip since I started at my job (which will be 5 years next month!). I’ve gone on a weekend somewhere, and as you have seen here I have gone tons of places through my job (I am a very lucky girl in that respect), but never just to go explore for myself. So where did I go? A tropical beach to relax? Maybe ancient ruins to explore? Nope, of course I went back to my beloved New York CIty to see the things I never have the time to while I am there on business!

It was a fantastic trip seeing old friends, exploring new neighborhoods (hello Williamsburg), and doing some of the most touristy things possible. There’s something about wandering around New York by yourself with nowhere pressing to be and not having to worry about dragging people along for the ride that is extremely liberating.

New York, my love.

The love affair continues, one trip at a time. A few shots from the trip I just got back from.

Happy Holidays!

I know I’m a little late as I have been spending a majority of my break either on the road (went back down to Southern Oregon for a few days!) or on my couch (it’s been so long!) and am not sorry at all about it.

So just to catch you up, here are a few photos since we’ve chatted last. Also, if you haven’t seen yet I caved and joined Instagram. Completely addicted and never going back. You can find me at @hot_on_a_dime !

I hope you’ve all been having a great Holiday season as well, and are ready for the new year… it’s comin’ in hot!

xoxo,
E

Breathtaking Barcelona

A few images from my recent trip to Barcelona… it was such an amazing city. I can’t wait to get back there!

Neon Diamond

It’s been years since I was in Paris, and I was so excited to go back, even if only for a few quick days. We stayed at Le Maison Champs Elysees which was beautifully designed by Martin Margiela. It was the perfect lead into heading south to Barcelona through the weekend.

Travel time!

 

I just found out I’m going to be heading over to Europe at the end of the month… starting with Paris! It has been so long since I’ve been, I can’t wait! Our second stop is Barcelona, where I have actually never been. Is it bad that I am kind of excited for the Fall-like weather I am spying in their forecasts? I’m also dreaming already of stopping into Lauderee and wine and cheese plates…

 

I couldn’t be more excited. I just need to figure out what to pack!

New York in Pictures

A few snaps from my recent whirlwind trip to the lovely, lovely NYC.

 

NYC here I come!

 

With so much going on this week, I’ll be lucky if I make it out with my head on straight. Saturday is D’s birthday, and I’m on the 6:35am flight out Sunday morning to NYC. Luckily, the big plans for his birthday this year involve cold beer, flotation devices and sunshine on the Sandy River. I’m so excited. I found him the best present this year thanks to a tip from Miss Sara, and went on a secret mission to get it. I can’t wait until I give it to him so I can show you all the photos!

I also have a bachelorette party to plan with some dear friends for the Saturday I get back. If anyone knows of a fun place to get party supplies in NYC, please let me know! I’d love some fun unique stuff to bring back for the occasion. That goes for any fun places that you love in the big apple, as this trip will be a little looser than some in the past and I might be able to explore a bit more. Fire away with some of your favorite spots I should check out!

So time to start packing, get the camera ready, and find an air pump! SO much to do!

xoxo,
E

Shanghai Markets

My favorite thing about traveling is the city markets. You get to walk around and learn  little bit more about the place, as well as find goodies way better than any store! In Shanghai there were multiple markets focused on different things. The Antique Market great for little things and random antiques (that may or may not have actually been antique). The Night Market had all kinds of odd little clothing/beauty items including and entire booth for nail polish, that were new and cheap (anyone say sparkle hair accessories as far as the eye can see?). We also found a very “locals only” Bird and Insect Market. They had everything from baby turtles, to chinchillas, to bright colorful birds, to black squirrels. Yes, Black Squirrels.

It also started POURING the day we went to the two outdoor markets. Thank goodness for hotel umbrellas!

Another tradition I have started is that when I travel now, I always try to pick up a bracelet from wherever I am. The one I picked up in China (which took forever to find!) is second from the bottom. It has a dragon and a phoenix both swirling towards the middle and has a really cool twisted technique on the back. I love having my own little modern charm bracelet riding around with me every day! (In the photo you can also see ones from Philly, Dallas, Chicago and my dress-finding mission with the girls in Seattle!)

Shanghai through Color

I have heard Shanghai called the “City of Color,” but until this recent trip I had no idea to what degree that really was. It was incredible in every little corner.