London

Paris got a post, and London deserves one, too. Even though it's been more than a week since I walked those streets, it's better late than never.

While London has never been a city of my dreams, I was curious to see what it's like, especially as quite a few of my friends been mesmerised by the place. I'm not going to lie: I'm not one of them. I neither loved nor hated London. But I do feel that a day couldn't do it justice and I'm looking forward to a longer visit. Also, even after a day, I imagine I'd like living there at least briefly, and it would be a totally different experience to simply being a tourist.

Overall, I'd say that London reminded me of Glasgow quite a lot. At times it just felt as simply a bigger, more beautiful (can't really argue with that, as much as I love Glasgow), and posher version of it.

I did have a moment though, when my opinion on the city changed from "meh" to "this is actually nice". And it wasn't some major tourist attraction that did it, even though I visited quite a few of them, no. I was just having lunch in Piccadilly Pret, and watching people pass by through the window. As always, creating stories in my head about where they're coming from and where they're going, who they are and what they believe to be important in their lives.

One of my favourite places must have actually been... a bookshop. I wanted to buy a book for A, and went to Waterstones in Piccadilly, which, from what I've read now, is the largest bookshop in Europe. Anyone who adores books as much as I do would understand the feeling that takes over when you're there, surrounded by thousands of them. I wanted to never leave, and, of course, was too tempted to not get anything for myself.

I also loved the National Gallery, even though I've only seen about a half of their collection. Van Gogh, Monet, Turner, Renoir, Degas... It was brilliant, and somehow I even enjoyed it better than the Louvre back in Paris (though this might be thanks to the fact I wasn't nearly as tired, knew what I wanted to see instead of just wandering around, and the whole collection wasn't as overwhelming).

I didn't like the British Museum nearly as much, sadly. While I can appreciate how all these exhibits showcase human history and culture, half an hour in, I was nothing but bored. Guess you can't just like all the places...

Next time I'm in London, it will be different. I've now seen it from the London Eye (which is as touristy as it gets... and not worth it, at all), visited King's Cross just for the Platform 9¾ (and although I grew up with the Harry Potter books, wasn't too impressed), and will be able to enjoy more earthy activities... or just pay a visit to the Tate.

Welcome to 2014

And so it went, 2013. One spectacular year, full of joy, discoveries about myself, and life lessons. One that could definitely go onto the list of the best years in my life.

Last year, somewhere in between watching more than 120 films, listening to more than 320 hours of music (and that's not counting all the music I hear live!), and reading a number of books that I don't want to admit, I learnt what living independently means. It was a year of relationships: I had started – and ended – my first serious one, and am happy in one now. And one of elections: two lost, two won. It saw me finding a job I like, even if I'm simply making sandwiches. I came back to Lithuania for the first time after leaving for Scotland – and the second now, too. I visited the Highlands briefly, and Paris. I finished the first and started the second year of university, and started learning French (even if not very successfully yet). I moved from halls into a flat where we live with two friends. I met a boy that's one of my best friends now. I lost my grandfather. And while these come in no chronological order, they were all important. They created the year as it was.

2014? Last night, when a friend of mine called to wish me a happy New Year, he asked what my one resolution would be for it, and I said I'd like to travel more. It's not only that though. I want to laugh more. And study more. Get better at budgeting and time planning, even if the latter requires some sacrifices. I want to spend more time with certain friends of mine. And go out and have fun more often, too, because when you work hard, you're allowed to party hard. Basically, I'll enjoy life more, that's all there is to it. Less drama and worrying, more positive experiences. Hopefully, that's not too much to ask from myself this coming year. Here's to a fantastic one.

Paris

It's been ages since I last wrote and I can't even promise I'll be back on posting regularly. But I surely miss writing, it has always had a therapeutic effect on me. One I need at the moment.

It's incredible thinking that only a week ago, I was in Paris. Yes! I finally made it happen. Because when you really want to achieve something, you can. Dreams come true, not thanks to some supernatural powers, but your own will and hard work.

Having climbed Arc de Triomphe and the Tour Eiffel, been inside the Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame, seen art in the Musée d'Orsay and the Louvre, and walked a countless number of streets, I can confirm that Paris is one magical place, a spectacular city and anything you want it to be. I've fallen in love with it before even visiting, and now I'm head over heels. Admittedly, I'm not sure if I want it to be my final destination, but definitely one of the stops in the journey of life. A plan I have thought of is simple – leaving Glasgow for London, and after a year or two going off to Paris. For three years or so. We'll see.

The first word that comes to my mind when I think of Paris is... space. Not only because it's huge, but the streets (well, some of them) are wide and the sky seems endless. As if there were no limits whatsoever, and not only in regards to the city, but to life in general. You can do anything. Who wouldn't like such a feeling? I do for sure. Can only imagine what it's like being there all the time, walking these streets day to day.

I might not have tasted the perfect French café au lait while watching people passing by. But I have still experienced Paris in my very own way, by myself, constantly thinking and rethinking all sorts of matters. There's no one right way to travel, of that I'm certain.

My individualism wasn't entire though. If it wasn't for the smiles and laugh shared with some fellow travellers, the trip wouldn't have been nearly as amazing. The man in front of me on the train from Glasgow to London: him getting off earlier, leaving me a chocolate Santa and wishing a merry Christmas. The boy on the bus from London to Paris who has never seen snow: us walking around the Eurotunnel, listening to music and playing dots&boxes (I lost). The girl I met in the lovely hostel I was staying at: us walking to the Sacré-Cœur and then towards the Louvre together. The boy I met in the hostel (once again): him saving me from starving and us having a great evening together with other people from all over the place. The woman I met in the bus stop: her talking to me in a mix of French and English, and us finding a roof over our heads that was needed for a few hours in the form of the reception of a four-star hotel.

All the goodbyes felt rushed and sad; I get attached to people awfully easily and it's strange thinking I'll most likely never see any of them again. In this case of course, I also simply didn't want to leave, even though I knew I have friends waiting to see me back home. The good thing is, I'll come back. Don't know when, but I have no doubts about it.

Briefly

I was planning to get my essay done last night, but once the document was open, realised I just can't look at it anymore. I needed a break. And while I had an invitation to a flatwarming and actually wanted to go, I realised that might not be the best idea, for reasons as simple as physical tiredness, the lack of money and the fact that only two people I knew were going to be there. And so I stayed in, curled up in my bed and, sipping the nicest tea in this and all the other worlds, watched a film – Les petits mouchoirs. Boy did I love such a relaxing night at home! The film is one I would definitely recommend when you're looking for something light yet not stupid. It's an American dramedy meets French director, actors, and setting. It's good.

via Wish Wish Wish

October is coming to an end, and even though I realise it's a bit early, I'm already thinking about New Year's celebration. My friends and I have failed at it so many times before, mostly thanks to our procrastination and no planning whatsoever, and I want this time to be different. The people I missed for so long will be there, at least some of them, and it just has to be great. My expectations are high. And it's not only that one night I'm planning. I can't wait for Christmas Eve with my mom, and for my trip to Paris beforehand. And for endless conversations I will have with my beloved friends. All the joy that being together will bring. Even if it's only for a while.

Friends, dreams, and life in general

Sometimes, coming back to the arms of a friend can be an incredibly satisfying feeling. Even if you know that things will never be the same. Even if some of the words that had been said come back to your head unwelcome. It's just nice having that part of your life back, hoping that things will never fall apart again.

Some things do fall apart. Not the things in my life, lately, but when people important to me are hurt, it upsets me nonetheless. And it's annoying to be miles away, with no means of helping them and supporting them through the hard times. We just have to believe it will all get better one day.

via Kiss My Spatula

And things do tend to get better. Dreams come true, I know that now better than ever. In two months, I'll be in Paris. And even if it's only for a couple of days, those days will be the best ever! I'm trying not to get my hopes up too high, but as this has been a huge dream of mine for ages, it's hard not to. I look at the photos and read the travel guides, eager to go and experience everything myself. I know that one I'm there, a piece of Paris will stay in my heart forever. Does this sound cheesy? Probably. It's sill true though, and that's what matters.

A night in

I don't think I've ever seen a girl your age so happy about spending a Friday night at home.

That's a comment from my coworker, after me being all excited about not having to go anywhere at all and telling him how I would talk to my mom, have dinner, then curl up in bed and read The Plague, or watch some silly film. In all honesty, my night definitely couldn't be better. While all the activities this week were amazing, and I certainly don't regret going to a flat party last night (ran into so many people I hadn't seen for ages!), I needed this respite.

via BOOK/SHOP

And here I am, keeping myself warm with a cup of tea and already wishing spring was here (I'm really not into the cold season). My next week's schedule is slowly but inevitably filling up, but it's fine as it includes some really nice plans, such as having a couple of friends over for a pizza night, volunteering at a film festival, and, well, okay, this isn't actually going to take up much time, but it's still a thing I'll have to do – buying a flight ticket! One of the main reasons why, even though dreaming of spring, I'm happy about the coming winter season, is that I'll finally make a big dream of mine come true, not to mention see my family and friends. You'll definitely hear more about this later on, once everything is confirmed!

Bits and pieces

I got what I wanted, what I was working towards, and I really, really should be happy now. And while last night I was indeed overjoyed, all the positive feelings slipped through my fingers today. And I don't know why. Or maybe... maybe I do, just am too scared to admit it.

via Oh So Lovely

Everything will fall into place, I know. My busy schedule will become less and less scary as time goes by. And I will find time for things I really want to indulge in, be it reading, watching a film or going for coffee with a friend. But at the moment, I'm just overwhelmed, even though that is exactly what I wanted – and don't get me wrong, still do.

Sometimes we don't realise the sudden importance of some people before it's too late. We can say out loud, and to ourselves, that it's nothing, we can really believe it... but there comes a time when the illusion is shattered. And then we have to make it true, because there's no other course of action to be taken. Personal relationships are not like elections, you can't ask other people to vote, and making a speech doesn't help either, at least not when you're bad at speeches – and conversations – that mean a lot to you.

October begins

It's strange thinking September has just started... Time flies, and here we are, slowly embracing October and with the middle of Autumn creeping up on us. Another strange thing is the weather – at least here, in Glasgow. While we did have a couple of days when it was pouring (which made me buy an umbrella – finally!), most of them are quite sunny and surprisingly warm. And to someone like me, whose mood is easily affected by sunshine, or the lack thereof, that is perfect.

My October started with a wee (not) a date in Tchai Ovna, the tea-house which I'm falling in love with more and more deeply each time I pay a visit. I do love myself a coffee from time to time, especially cappuccino, but tea? A cup, or two, or more... It's always brilliant. Especially in an atmospheric place like that. (Not) dates? I'm still struggling with the definition of one, so trying to look at things without overcomplicating them, hence they aren't really dates.

via Schorlemaedchen

I'm also trying to get more involved with societies at uni, namely Amnesty International, GU Magazine, French Soc, and Screens (film society). AI has elections next Tuesday and if I manage to build the courage up and speak in front of everyone, I might try to get elected. The French Soc election, sadly, has confirmed that I'm not good at popularity contests, but I might still end up getting a position in their committee as well.

Back on Wednesday, I went to the screening of a short documentary film about Tibet, and it was so upsetting... But also just confirmed the fact that AI is definitely an organisation I want to be a part of, because it's only when there are many of us aware of such issues, displaying attention and taking action that change can be instigated. Do I sound a bit like a human rights activist yet? Even if not, I probably will soon. And I'm proud of that.

And today... Today started at 6 in the morning for me, and thus it already feels as if it was late evening now. After eight hours of work (well, to be fair, practically seven and a half!), I'm all up for activities that require thinking, but don't want to go further away from my bed than the kitchen. And it's okay, I guess. You can't just always run somewhere, and be busy doing things. Once in a wile, it's necessary to calm down and reflect on what has been done, and what is still out there. Recharge.

Life lately

When most of the people you know are down with a cold and you're feeling perfectly healthy, you know all is well.

Just like always, it's little bits and pieces that make my days. Last night, my lovely flatmate J and me went to a gig at the 13th Note, as her boyfriend's band, The Walking Targets, was performing. I was so excited to see them live and they didn't disappoint! Other bands were also good, I especially liked The Smith Street Band. It's funny how at first J and me weren't even sure if we should stay for longer, both of us being sort of tired. But then we did, and it was definitely worth our while! We left the venue uplifted and saying how gigs are one of the best things in the world (and hungry... but that was fixed by some cereal later on, back at home). And while punk rock isn't even exactly my thing (I'm more into alt/indie), I'm glad I went. Also, sometimes after gigs I get this feeling of being... complete. And I think that maybe I don't need that much in life at all. As long as I can listen to some awesome music, see the artists and move to the rhythm, forgetting everything else.

via megfee

Today, after all my lectures, I went for a drink with my favourite former flatmate, and he told me about his summer hitchhiking trips around Europe and a month spent in India. It sounded so inspiring and made me all hyped. I want to travel so, so much.

I wish I had something very exciting to write about. But life is simple these days, and it consists of three things – studying, working, and meeting people. This ain't me complaining though! I couldn't hope for anything better at the moment, and I'm enjoying every minute of it, no matter how spent. Even nights like this, when I feel like staying at home and not doing much apart from listening to music and relaxing, are good, they kind of help me recharge the inner battery and keep me going. Once again I realise how much our happiness depends on the attitude. And if you look at every day as if it was a wee adventure, it will be.

(Not so) crazy days

You know you're sociology students when a discussion about what defines a pub begins... We did have one with JC last night, while at the GU Amnesty International social night!

via Schorlemaedchen

Crazy days... Like yesterday. I had so many plans, and even though I ended up not doing some of the things, my scedule was still pretty busy. After my psychology lecture I went for lunch with my friend LH, and we got ourselves nice take-aways from The Little Italy. It was lovely seeing her and talking about a bit of everything, just like it always is. Then, as I had a two-hour gap, I decided to go to the library and do a bit of studying – and did exactly that, instead of spending my time on Facebook or whatever. More lectures followed, and then, the Amnesty International meeting. I wanted to join the society last year, but their meetings clashed with our film screenings, so I couldn't. But this year, nothing can stop me! I also got my flatmate J to come along, and forementioned JC joined as well. Both the meeting and the social night at Bookclub were great, I can't wait to get more involved. I had to leave Bookclub early though, because I wanted to go to the French society social as well, which wasn't as exciting, perhaps because I only vaguely knew one person there, and there were way many more of us than ever last year, and I was already tired.

via Park and Cube

When I write it down like this, the day doesn't seem nearly as busy as it felt. Or as interesting. But it was. A lot of moments made it so good, just like the little things always do. Mostly people-related, such as running into my favourite former flatmate I hadn't seen for nearly half a year. Or getting back in touch with students from last year tutorials or neighbours from halls. And, of course, meeting so many new people. All this university buzz fills me with energy, though I know that at some point it will start tiring me out.

via A Cup of Jo, originally from Notabilia

Not so crazy... Like today. I had psychology and French lectures, and a sociology tutorial (with me and one more person speaking up, all the others being shy/uninterested... how familiar!), and then, when it seemed as if I'm done with my day, it was actually only starting as I had to go to work. This is a pattern I have to get used to, but at least today, it wasn't too bad. A friend of mine was waiting for me to finish and once I was, we went to Tchai Ovna, a tea-house I had never been to before but knew I'd be falling in love, and then did. Will definitely be frequenting the place. It was a calm evening, full of laughter and conversations – at first with that friend, and when I got back home, with my flatmates. And it made me so relaxed and happy to be where I am. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, it'll be a mix of calm and crazy, and I'll do my best to make it one more positive day.

The first day of lectures

This is it – you're reading a post written by an actual second-year student! I had a bit of everything today, and even though had my hopes high up, wasn't disappointed.

The first psychology lecture was quite tedious as they have this tendency to be awfully repetitive, and, well, experimental design is not the most exciting topic to begin with. But it was okay as I know this is simply a necessity so we can continue with much more interesting stuff.

Then French started out seeming really challenging and demanding, and at the moment I have no idea how I'll actually learn the language! Our tutor is a young guy from Brittany, he has an adorable accent and sometimes forgets English words which is absolutely funny as long as he doesn't lose his confidence in the process. Other students, while some have been studying French for a couple of years, seemed to be quite shy, but I guess I was the same when I was in my first year (and the majority of them are!).

via Vivatramp

Now the subject I was waiting for probably the most, sociology, was everything I always enjoyed about it. Though we got quite a lot of information to take in and as I'll be writing my essay on the topic I'll also have more than enough reading to do, it's perfectly fine because it's so interesting! And I was glad to realise that quite a few people I know are continuing with it this year, at first it seemed as I'm the only one staying.

In other news, my mom is back from her wee trip to Sweden (and before that, she visited Germany... she's travelling more than me these days!), and it was nice chatting to her today – the distance between us is making such a huge positive impact on our relationship, it's unbelievable!

via Hannah Hayes

Also, yesterday, I went for lunch to Bookclub with this guy I've technically known for a year but only started properly talking to recently. It's funny how sometimes we don't notice people around us and miss out on great opportunities, it reminds me of my resolution to talk to strangers more. Though this lunch of ours was more a part of another resolution: to make friends with people I meet in the beginning of a new academic year. Because when I think of it, there were so many great people I spent my Freshers' Week and even the first couple of months with last year, but later on, we all drifted apart. I don't want that again, and for it not to happen, some effort is needed. Me and this guy also talked about our resolution to get more involved with clubs and societies at university, and I'm really eager to do it, which is why tomorrow I'll be going to 3 or even 4 different events (and, of course, 3 lectures, too). A busy day awaits, and it's because of days like it that I love university.

You know that life is good when...

...you're so excited about the beginning of uni that you start making notes for an essay that's due in the end of November.

...your home country gets into the final of EuroBasket.

...it's getting chilly outside but you're not cold because you got a lovely new jacket.

Top Shop

...you're further than halfway through The Game of Thrones and you're loving every single minute of it.

...you enjoy your job and don't mind working a couple of extra hours.

...you have some strawberries.

...you're so close to your flatmates that you start worrying when one of them isn't coming back home for longer than planned.

via Park & Cube

...stupid drama disappears.

...you're not even that worried about not having a functioning phone anymore.

...you briefly see your former flatmates, you all smile and there are only good memories left.

...you're listening to a great song.

"You're not 'people', you're Domi."

Well hello everyone! I've had a wee unplanned break from blogging, mostly because I'm not on the Internet as often as I used to be during the summer and I still need to learn how to balance everything that's on my plate. But last night as I couldn't fall asleep thinking about lots of little things I realised I love blogging way too much to leave it behind just because I'm always short of time. I might not be posting every day, but I'm not going to quit anytime soon.

The Freshers' Week has just started, and damn, things have been good. And while I might get slightly upset about the fact I'm not a Helper, I know I'll have a chance next year, and that I couldn't fit it into my tight schedule just now, after all, work is work. And I actually don't mind working these days because it's always a lot of fun thanks to the people I do it with.

via Nishaantishu

I had my first lecture yesterday, or at least it was supposed to be one... It only lasted 15 minutes and we were basically told what we'll be doing this semester. The good thing is, everything sounded incredibly interesting and I can't wait to start proper sociology lectures this year! I'm not yet sure about psychology topics yet, and mildly worried about French though, because I'll need to put in a lot of effort if I want to actually learn it. But I'll do my best!

The most important thing about these days however is probably the fact that so many friends who haven't been around for ages have just come back. I met some of them already, am still to see the others, and we have plenty of catching up to do. It creates this vibe and autumn-ish atmosphere like nothing else would, and while sometimes it's good to spend a cosy evening at home with loads of tea and watch a film with my dearest flatmates, at the timebeing there's nothing better than going to places and seeing people who create that fuzzy warm feeling inside, and talking to them.

There are so many things to talk about, different topics with different people. And when you think of it, it's funny how we can go from something absolutely silly, such as demolishing a nearby building to let more sunshine into a friend's room, to serious discussions, like about the upcoming election in Germany. Conversations about the summer events, telling each other juicy stories, anything. I especially liked how yesterday me and a friend of mine talked about where to go after graduating from university, how we want to achieve something and look for better things all the time, but there's also this fine line one shouldn't cross, because there comes a time in your life when it's better to settle for what you have, accept it and enjoy life without the constant craving for something more, but it's difficult to realise when this happens. Hopefully, we will.

Back when I was in school, autumn meant the end of all things exciting, and trying to slow yourself down a bit. Now it's the exact opposite. The pulse of the city is changing, and so is the rythm of life.

Looking back

Yesterday after work I went to visit P&S and it was so good seeing them. S and me watched basketball together, and talked a lot. Too bad P couldn't join us, but then again, being a Freshers' Helper is perhaps one of the most awesome and fun things – which makes me happy for her, and a tiny bit jealous.

Today I was working again, and closing took us ages, but afterwards me and the girl I was working with joined another coworker of ours and their friends for a drink. It was a bit odd for me as I'm the new one and didn't really know people (most of you will probably know the feeling!), but still better than walking straight back home. We'll have a staff night on Saturday – a dinner at Wudon and then probably going out to Sleazy, and I really hope it will be a lot of fun.

Another good thing that happened yesterday was getting loads of photos from P. Most of them are so old by now, she's definitely one of those people that take their time with it! Though it's not necessarily a bad thing: it was interesting to look back on all the things that happened, and it's much more so when you can put the events and the moments into context. I'm sharing the ones I liked the best with you...

Me as a fersher, a year ago :)

S and me at Ketchup

Me, S, and the most delicious lasagne ever

The famous lasagne again

P&S, the lovelies

Loving my flatmates

This post goes out to two amazing girls, J and L. I know there's a lot to come, and it's only been a couple of days (not even that) since we started living together, and I know we might have fights in the future, but for now, I couldn't be happier. We watch films together, we tell each other juicy stories and talk about more serious stuff, and we even cook together (which is a big deal for us as neither is so fond of it)! Yesterday we had the simplest meal with J and my guest M, which was spaghetti with sun-dried tomato pesto, feta, olives, spinach and basil. And today we had a proper dinner in the form of stuffed tomatoes (we even had two different fillings!). It was lovely.

It's funny how we decided to live together, which I remembered of today talking to AM (there are so many people with their names starting with A, it's crazy!) when he asked how come I wasn't living with P&S. It was ages ago: J and me were having coffee at Starbucks, our Friday tradition which is now gone, and I asked who she's living with, and she said it will be L. As I wasn't sure about my situation, she asked if I wanted to join. Back then, me and L were barely acquaintances! We only properly started talking to each other once it was decided we'll be staying together, yet somehow, the whole thing worked out just perfectly, apart from the stressful experience that flathunting was.

via Charlotte's Web

Overall, the beginning of September is living up to my expectations quite nicely. I love how running into people started now, it's just great seeing familiar faces! AM was so friendly today, and we talked about our German friend coming back which we both can't wait for. Once the term actually begins, I'll be full of joy. Hopefully, all the time.

Films of the week

This week saw J moving in, which was absolutely exciting. We had the planned party on Friday and both yesterday evening and tonight were spent watching films with her and M. It's a million times better than being alone, so cosy and nice. Tomorrow our third flatmate, L, is arriving from Germany and there couldn't be a better way to kick the week off. It will finally be all of us in our lovely West End flat. We will spend the afteroon talking loads and having some cheesecake and wine, and I know it will be a happy time. And now, about the couple of films I've seen this past week, which are the complete opposites of each other.

The 40-Year-Old Virgin. M loves Steve Carell, both me and J really like Paul Rudd, and, being somewhat sleepy, we wanted a light flick, so this was the obvious choice. We were surprised to see Jane Lynch, Kat Dennings and Jonah Hill along the way, and astonished by the fact how much prettier Catherine Keener looked here than in Being John Malkovich. Overall, I wasn't too impressed by this comedy, but it definitely had its moments and wasn't bad at all (both J and M liked it a lot!).

Mysterious Skin. A dark, disturbing, and intense drama. We had to pause it a couple of times because it was just so much to take in one go. Some of the scenes will probably haunt me later, but as J and me decided, the horrible parts were absolutely worth it. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers a very strong and simply incredible performace, and I respect him so much for doing a role like that. This is a film that truly reflects on reality in a painful way, definitely worth watching.

via Nishaantishu

This is it for now, hope your week starts off as nicely as mine will! I'm in need of those positive things at the moment as something upsetting happened last night, which I'm still processing. I might tell you about it when I feel better, or I might keep it to myself. It all goes down to this, though: you probably won't hear me mentioning my time with A anymore, unless I'm reminiscing.

From the Internet...

Apparently, I missed out on one of my favourite blogs coming back to life in an altered form. Instead of Cali, there will now be three new authors blogging about their relationships, dating life and what not on Sex and the Twenties. I really enjoyed the post by one of them, Sawyer, on friendzone.

Continuing the topic of dating... The last day of the 40 Days of Dating has come, which all of the readers were oh so excited for. If you weren't one of them, you can now read it all from start to finish, but do yourself a favour and enjoy the ride without spoiling the ending!

Holly from decor8 is having a crush on an earthy tone palette and providing some inspiration for all of those who want to make their home look warm, cosy, and autumn-ish (just look at the picture above!).

I'm dreaming of visiting Avignon, since it looks as if the city has the perfect balance between peacefulness and typical rush. All thanks to some more beautiful pictures that Simon from Own Way of Inspiration has shared (you can see one of them above)!

The lovely Maria from Schorlemaedchen is hosting a give-away, and one lucky person will be able to choose a print from either her print shop or the blog. Hurry up, you have time until the 15th of September, and they're all so beautiful the winner might find it difficult to decide!

A letter to my city

Dear Glasgow,

A year ago I came here knowing practically two people – and that is, if you can say you "know" someone after talking to them for a few hours just to realise there is quite a lot you have in common. A mix of emotions was fighting over me, ranging from joyful excitement to fear and sadness. I remember looking at you while the three of us had a walk in the rain (and got lost while the skies were darkening...) and putting on a fake smile, thinking quietly about how I'll never really like it here. I soon found myself being homesick, desperately clinging to the place of brighter memories. Things weren't getting better as time passed. My English wasn't as good as I had thought it to be, or at least I wasn't confident enough, and from an overly talkative person I turned into someone who preferred listening to the conversations of other people, and keeping my mouth shut. Later on I realised I didn't even have things to say anymore, I was lacking both strong opinions and the courage to express them. I forgot about my hobbies. In search of myself, I lost it completely.

365 days. The above paragraph paints a pretty accurate picture of how miserable I once was, back in the start. But guess what? That was exactly it, a beginning. And those negative feelings don't come even close to summing up my overall experience. The two girls I came here with? We have our issues, just like all friends do, but damn do I love them. And now there are more people I can call friends, too, and many more I can talk to without worrying about my English too much. You, the city? I still get amazed sometimes out of a sudden: by architecture, people, the atmosphere. I walk out of the library, and when the setting sun paints the sky in all the prettiest colours, the castle that is University looks just as magnificent as it once did in the prospectus I was looking at, dreaming of coming here. I promised to myself to get involved in things this upcoming academic year. I found my voice. I even have some goals for the future, and while the pieces of the puzzle don't fit perfectly, I'll pave my way. I know I can.

To this day I don't know how things changed, but I'm embracing the life I have here, and while some of the people I left behind are missed, those who actually cared enough, stayed, even if from afar. And I can say in all honesty: this was a wonderful year, and I'm looking forward to seizing new opportunities that come my way instead of thinking twice. And you know what? I'm happy.

Yours,
Domi

Not alone anymore!

The friend of mine that I've mentioned a while ago has finally came to Glasgow! It couldn't be more exciting. I didn't even mind getting up early today to meet him at the bus station.

My friend, M :)

The main activity today was showing M around: we walked around the university campus, had coffee at Tinderbox, looked around the new collection of H&M, and visited the Gallery of Modern Art. And even though we haven't seen anything that fancy today, he seems to be really loving Glasgow so far which I'm very happy about. Oh, and I've also finally got (or, to be more exact, completed) the birthday gift for my flatmate J, so can wait for her moving in tomorrow! Speaking of gifts, I received a jewellery holder and a couple of drink coasters from M, and instantly fell in love!

Caramel Icebox

Happy me!

And now we're sort of watching a basketball game and having some rest! How did you spend this sunny Thursday (here at least, the weather was really nice!)? What are your plans for the approaching weekend? Tomorrow it's a year since I came here and we're celebrating that together with my birthday!

The lovely gift!

19

So, yesterday was the big day! I'm 19 now, starting my last teenage year with a positive attitude and a wide smile on my face. I actually had birthday wishes coming my way starting the day before, because it's two hours later back home than here in Scotland. Which means, I was 18 and 19 at the same time (of course, not really... but still)! My loveliest friends back there were the first to bring this new optimistic outlook, just the fact that they're still there for me come rain or shine is enough to make me incredibly happy. And even though there were some people who seem to have simply forgotten about me whatsoever, it's okay. Time shows who's your true friend, and it's not a bad thing at all, even if sometimes slightly upsetting.

via Own Way of Inspiration. I wish I could have gone to Avignon for my birthday, it looks awesome! I'm falling in love with France more and more, even without having visited.

In the afternoon I met up with my dear Welsh friend, Cal: we went to Paperchase together, had some coffee at Tinderbox, enjoyed the beautiful weather walking near the Kelvin and then spent some time at his new place – probably the most amazing student flat I've ever seen, huge and all cosy!

My gift to myself from Paperchase: a notebook I'll be using as a planner/diary sort of thing :)

Afterwards I had P&S over, it's strange thinking how it's been nearly a year since I met those two lovely girls and I now don't know how I'd live without them here! We spent some time at my flat and then headed to the Hillhead Bookclub, where A and another friend of ours joined. It was an evening well spent – nothing extraordinary, but just lots of nice things going on. Though the night ended absolutely not according to any sort of plan, and I'm yet to figure out what's happening in my life, that's not anything to worry about too much!