BERKELEY HILLS

About a week ago, my dad and I agreed to start hiking more often. Last week, we took an easy trail, a bit too much sunlight exposure, but it was fun. Today, the trail was definitely difficult. From the moment we began, it was uphill, with little snakes and salamanders every where, under rocks, in the brush and in the bushes. Once reaching the highest point of the hill, we ran into an area where all the trees were cut down, and how could I pass up that photo op? There was nowhere else to go, so we decided it was time to head back and grab lunch. And although, going uphill was a challenge, loose rocks, brush and sand are not helpful when you've only got a walking stick to help you down a steep hill. Thankfully, I didn't slip... until we got back to our car. I totally advise everyone to go out and have a good hike, it's refreshing and a great work out.

ari xx.

OTRA + ROWYSO

Hi everyone! I haven't made a blog post in quite a while and I just recently went to two concerts so I thought I would write about that. July 11 was the day that I saw 4 beautiful boys for the second time. I have been a fan of One Direction since the day What Makes You Beautiful came out, and to have seen them grow with their music (and hairstyles) over the years and to grow with them has been such a journey. Today, July 23, 2015 just happens to be their 5 year anniversary as a band. As expected, their concert was full of jumping, crying, dancing and singing until I actually felt like I was going to throw up. They did so incredibly amazing the whole entire time, it was truly one of the most surreal moments of my life. The least I can say is that it was oodles of fun! The 5SOS concert was also incredible. I was in shock the whole entire time and it really did not hit me that I was seeing them live until it was over and I was driving home. I hope all of you guys who are fans of either bands get to see them live one day because they are both breathtaking. I took some photos from both concerts which will be below, enjoy!

ari xx.

SOMBER SUMMER

To many who have never visited California or only know of Southern California, it's a bit hard to believe that it rarely gets "hot" in Northern California. In fact, the weather here is either up and down, or quite moderate. Lately, it's been a tad more cold and gloomy. Living by the bay, it's always windy, but right now the skies are darker. Personally, I like cold weather, so it isn't an issue to me. My friend, Nicole and I went by the bay, close to her home, to take some photos. They seemed to make sort of a grey theme and I really enjoyed that day, so here are some photos. 

ari xx.

BEACH DAY BIRTHDAY

I've just now come home from an exhausting, yet absolutely amazing day. Today is two of my closest friends' birthdays! After lunch and a little painting session, we headed to the beach. It was quite windy and my toes nearly disintegrated from the burning hot sand, but the beach is such a beautiful place to spend time at. Being there today with no worries on my mind, just happiness, made me feel like summer has finally begun. It's a peaceful sight and being with some of my most favourite people made it even more of an enjoyable day. Happy birthday, Nicole and Katia! 

ari xx.