cozy reading nook

Maybe it's because is freezing in my office, or because I was awake until 2am after drinking my first coffee in two months at four in the afternoon yesterday. Such a bad idea!

Maybe it's because, even though it was beautiful when I came to work, it is now drizzling and dark.

socks, sweater, top, mug, scarf, book

Whatever the cause, I am feeling a little down and a little sleepy today.

I really just want to be someplace warm and cozy, snuggly, with some tea and reading a good book.

Don't you?

Right now I am reading The Child in Time by Ian McEwan, who you may know, also wrote Atonement. I love the way he writes. He's very wordy and a little dry, but I like that. He really gets into the psychology of the characters, too, which I love. His characters are so believable and alive.

I would much rather be in my room at home curled up with my book.

Alas, c'est la vie. I had a long weekend which I enjoyed very much, so I should just be happy with that, no? :)

-A.

carried away

Big news you guys! Last week Tom and I booked a vacation in the Dominican Republic! We found a very reasonable deal on Groupon Getaways, so I'll let you know how that turns out. . . . We're a little apprehensive about what hidden fees might be lying in wait for us, but even if, it was still too good to pass up. Our flight, our room, our meals and all of our drinks were included for six nights!

I already made a mental list of all the things I'll need (and somethings I don't) and set out to acquire them.

So far, I've acquired a few dresses, a little backpack and sandals (the latter two I did not have before, so that's pretty legit, right? ...I know, I know. I didn't have SANDALS. There's something wrong with me).

flamingo, dress, bag, sandal, beach

Anyway.

Our vacation isn't until May . . . and yes, I'm probably [definitely] getting ahead of myself.

But you can't blame me! I've never ever been on a beach vacation before (in fact, I've never been to a beach where the water is warm!). And the closest I've ever been to a tropical paradise was Disney World. . . . And, I get to go with my guy! Who wouldn't be thrilled?

Oh, and the only time I have ever used my passport was when I was 16. I've only been to Canada (many, many times) and France (once). I'm pumped to get a new stamp in my passport. Even though, I have to get a new passport later this year.

It's the idea of the stamp, more than the stamp itself, right?

The pictures above are of Dominicus Beach, where our resort is! Isn't it beautiful? I've been trying to research things to do but it's been tough to find anything that won't cost a fortune. Luckily, Tom is fluent in Spanish so it won't be difficult to communicate with staff and locals and find out what's really neat in the area.

Anyone else been to the DR? Have any suggestions? We'll be just 20 minutes out of La Romana!

-A.

summer... wear art thou?

GEDDIT? . . . because it's a fashion post. . . ?

I know, I know. . . . I'm sleep-deprived. Forgive me. 

Anyway, Here are two items I am dreaming of: 

dress, shoe

I may pick them up soon but . . . like . . . it's frigid out! So having this beautiful dress hanging in my closet might only make me very sad that it's still winter (and a harsh winter at that!). 

We'll see. 

What do you think?

Last year I bought similar sandals from Aerosoles, but they fell apart! Maybe $65 isn't much to spend on shoes these days, but it's still a lot. I would still appreciate if they didn't fall apart, ya know? :)

Peace,
-A.