The Very Best of London | according to me

Having lived in London for a year, I often find it hard to sum up what I'd do if I had one week in the city. London is amazing and there's just so much to see and do. After some thought though, I've come up with my top recommendations. A lot of websites will fill you in on the popular tourist attractions, but here are my personal, perhaps less well-known, favorites. If I could go back today, you'd find me doing one of these.

+ Walk along the Thames at night. The city can be surprisingly quiet on a week night and there are twinkle lights and benches along the way, it's the perfect refresher after a long day of sight seeing.

+ Go to church. You heard me! Pick a huge, beautiful church and attend a service. Not only is this a free way to see churches like Westminster and St. Paul's, but it's an awesome way to experience a bit of English culture and see incredible architecture.

+ Go to market. Borough Market is a must if you're craving a taste of British and/or other ethnic foods. It's the most renown food market in all of England and it won't disappoint. Covent Garden is one of my favorite spots with live music, food and plenty of booths for buying a souvenir. You can learn more about London's markets here.

+ Relish Primrose Bakery. A couple blocks from Covent Garden sits the little Primrose Bakery. If you follow my blog and/or Instagram, you've probably heard me talk about it. This place is perfect for a traditional cup of tea and a delicious cupcake or two (raspberry coconut, amazing). I kind of feel like it's a hidden gem, but then again, the three tables inside are often full.

+ Enjoy a park. Everyone's heard of Hide Park, but my favorites are Regent's and Green Park (right next to Buckingham palace). And if you happen to be in Wimbledon, my haven, Cannizaro Park. In spring or autumn these parks are bursting with life - their beautiful trees and lawns just beckon for a stroll or picnic. You can find out more about London parks here.

+ Finally, if you have the opportunity, venture outside of the city! The rolling English countryside is one of a kind and a day trip to Bath, Oxford or Dover is well worth it. Some of my favorite memories are the Roman Baths, Jane Austen's home and having a pint at The Eagle and Child, where C.S. Lewis frequented. Coach tickets are cheap and there are always several time options for every day.

So there you have it, somewhat of a nut shell of how I'd spend my time if I had one week in London.  Of course, if you can manage a year, I highly recommend it. ;-)

Michaela Rae

Trends I'll Live Without (Part III)

Well, I'm back. Back with more fashion trends that make me cringe. I'm going to share four trends that this summer (what's left of it), and every summer, I vow to live without. You can see other horrible trends I've written about in Part I and Part II. 

Summer's when people get to show a little more skin, and that's fine by me, it gets hot out and I like wearing summer dresses too. The first two trends I'm about to share though have gone above and way beyond the call of duty this summer.

1. See-though shirts - Shirts serve a purpose, as do bras. A shirt's purpose is to cover up what your bra does not. A.K.A your back (or majority of it) and belly. If you're going to wear a shirt like this, why not walk around in your bra? Nuff said. Tanks are my friend.

2. Let your butt hang-out high-waisted shorts - You guys already know what I think of high-waisted shorts, so it shouldn't surprise you that I hate these. I've mainly seen teenage girls (try to) sport them, but still, what were their mother's thinking when they let them leave the house? If the crotch area hangs 5 inches below where the shorts cut off (or your butt hangs out in any shape or form), they're too short.

3. Mint overload - I love the color mint and was excited to see it make a return this summer until...girls started dressing in it from head to toe. Mint nail polish + colored jean + top + accessories = mint eyesore. I hope fall allows our eyes a rest.

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4. Flatforms - Doesn't this ring Spice Girls to anyone else? Also, they look extremely difficult to walk in, but I can't speak from experience. Let's allow flats be flats and wedges be wedges and not try to marry the two, they obviously make uuugly kids.

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What are your thoughts on these terrible trends? My favorite part about these posts is reading your funny feedback.

Michaela Rae

Hope for the Nail Biter

For years I've bitten my nails like they're the last thing on the planet to eat. Really, I've been an infamous nail destroyer ever since I can remember. But that's not what I've come to brag about. I've come to brag about these:

Beautiful, long (in my book), taken-care-of nails. How? Well, here's how it's gone down.

My first decision was to stop being insecure about them. Growing up I was made fun of for my "crabby" fingers and small nails, so I figured if they're ugly anyway who cares if I bite them? But after finding my man and discovering that he quite likes holding my hands, and learning that no matter how much I bite them they'll always grow back the same, I decided to get over it.

A few products have also contributed to my new-found nail success.

When you cave and start buying $8 Essie nail polish, you suddenly find yourself wanting to paint more than your toes. You gotta show that stuff off! Also I noticed the significant difference that the protein basecoat made; my nails were a lot stronger. They used to be brittle and even when they grew, it was only a matter of days before a break or crack. The Almond Hand Cream's from The Body Shop, I like it because the almond oil helps strengthen the nails and keeps the cuticles moisturized. Also, it just smells really nice (and I got it for free). I was given the Rosebud Salve as a bridesmaid gift, I know it's sold at Anthropologie, not sure where else. I like it on my lips, but better yet my cuticles. It sinks in quickly and after just a couple days I could tell a big difference. No more hang nails! 

I just wanted to lend a little hope to all you avid nail biters out there because if there's one thing I know we need, it's just that (and maybe some good hand cream and nail polish too). I'm not quite ready to hand model yet, but when I am, this lady better watch out.

Michaela Rae

Whipping Myself into Shape | my power foods

photo via Iowa Girl Eats

About a week ago I decided it's time. Time to whip myself back into shape. I miss being healthy, it's a night and day difference. When I'm in shape I have energy pre-cup of coffee, I sleep well at night and it's so much easier to pop right up at my alarm. Being in good health also helps with my overall outlook on life. I feel more content and joyful.

I've decided to take the slow and steady route of getting there though. I'll flake out in a week or two if I get overly ambitious. So instead of pushing myself to do 30 minute cardio routines and only eat salad (yeah right!), I'm trying to do something active every day, even if it's just going for a walk. I'm choosing to eat less bread, drink more water and eat more "power foods" (food that's got a lot to offer).

Here are some of the versatile and relatively cheap healthy foods I'm choosing:

Avocados. They're a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, K, folate, and B6. Plus they're delicious and make for an easy snack, even if just with a little salt.

Cabbage. I've always loved cabbage but I didn't realize until recently how much it has to offer, plus it's cheap! It's a good detoxifier and is rich in iodine, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Here are some tips for cooking cabbage.

Oatmeal. As I'm sure many of you know, oatmeal (not the instant kind, the real deal) is the way to start your day. Oats are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber and nutrients, including: vitamin E, zinc, selenium, copper, iron, manganese and magnesium. It's also a good source of protein. Whew. I change my oatmeal up with different fruit each morning so I don't grow tired of it.

Spinach. I like substituting different types of lettuce for spinach whenever possible because this stuff is no joke. Just picture Popeye and you'll get the right idea. It's loaded with calcium, folic acid, vitamin K and iron. It's also rich in vitamins A, C, fiber and carotenoids. When Kurt and I were visiting friends in Ireland they shared a really awesome spinach smoothie recipe with us, it's so delicious, try it!

Yogurt. I love having yogurt as a mid-day snack. It's a rich source of calcium and is easier for your body to digest than milk. It also has protein and live-culture yogurt helps boost your immunity with lactobacteria (basically, good bacteria that your body needs).

photo via The Kitchn

And of course, Fruit. I'm eating more citrus pieces, bananas and apples whenever I have a hankering for a munchy.

I'm also drinking Nettle Tea every day. Sounds strange but it offers so many benefits and doesn't taste bad either. It's a natural diuretic (helping reduce water retention) and cures inflammation. It helps eliminate acne and to regulate a women's cycle and reduce pain during it. You can read all about it here.

I'm curious how you enjoy any of the above. Do you have a good recipe for cabbage or spinach? I want it! Are there any other foods you consider a must in your diet? To be honest, this is the first time I'm really taking it upon myself to be educated about what I eat (in college I was concerned with how I was going to pay for food, not what was in it). I'd love some help!

Michaela Rae

Trends I'll Live Without (Part II)

I enjoyed the feedback I got on my first Trends I'll Live Without post (lots of chuckles) and have since realized some items that belong on the list as well, so here goes!

5. Leggings as Pants - Not sure if it's just a British trend, but since moving it seems the leggings-as-pants wearers are everywhere. And every time I see them I wonder if they accidentally forgot their trousers at home. It just makes me feel all awkward. The crazy Indian-like patterned ones are the worst.

6. Fake Oversized Glasses - I'm afraid I might loose some friends over sharing this one. What can I say, it seems silly to wear fake glasses to begin with, but then make them two sizes too large and I'm just confused. Guess I'm a bit of a hypocrite when it comes to oversized sunglasses though.

7. Platform Stilettos - These have been around for awhile but I've never voiced my distain. You won't see me in heels that often to begin with (although I do like some), but you definitely won't ever see me in these hooker status platforms. Besides, I'm pretty sure I'd break both my ankles. They look painful. Do men find these attractive?

   

8. Knee-high Socks - Unless worn with boots, these mainly remind me of the Raggedy Ann doll I had growing up. And I'm pretty sure miss Ann can pull them off better than anyone I've ever seen. But if you're going to wear them, do the whole shebang - piggtales and all. 

If you happen to be sporting your knee high socks and stilettos today, please don't take offense; it's all in good humor. In my first post I said maybe I'd come up with a list of my favorite trends, but I think this is way more fun.

What do you think of these trends, and the first four I shared? Am I right on or horribly wrong? I certainly don't claim to be much of a fashionista. 

Michaela Rae

{photos via Pinterest, see my boards here}

Time Management

I sat at our windows last night watching the swirling flakes come down - I'm like a little kid when it comes to this. I love how peaceful it is and that it can transforms a city over night. This morning there's still snow, not fully melted, on roof tops. It's beautiful. I wish it would stay longer.

This week I focused on better time management. My arms and legs are sore from push-ups and lunges, I've written letters and Valentine cards and managed to read in the mornings. These are things I told myself at the start of the year (but didn't claim were resolutions, because those aren't that cool anymore and are a little too risky) that I'd work on. It feels good to be diligent and keep my word. I get so fed up with myself when I don't do the things I set out to, and sometimes it's simply the difference between sleeping in that extra hour or "quickly" hopping online to check e-mails.

I'm sure some of you, especially the moms, are thinking "you lucky duck!" I know a little kiddo added to the mix will require a whole new level of determination and self discipline, but that's precisely why I want to get myself in order. Sometimes when I read other bloggers I can't believe how much they do. They're like super women - especially the ones with kids.

So what's your secret?? ;-) Do you have rules for yourself, like no internet before lunch or waking up an hour early to read? I'd love to hear.

Isn't my husband dapper?

Michaela Rae

Beating Homesickness {even Christmas week}

Perhaps you're in my situation, you're thousands of miles away from the place you call home this week of Christmas. If you're feeling a bit blue, even amidst the music, lights, food and laughter around you, hear you these tips. These things are helping me stay in the Christmas spirit this year; I hope they help you too. :-)

Handwritten Letters
One of my favorite ways to feel close to the ones I love is to write them. Not only does writing help ease the homesickness, it'll also bring joy to someone else. Even Christmas cards do the trick. It's equally as great when you get them in return. When I see a letter waiting for me with a familiar American stamp my day is permanently brightened.

Familiar Food
Baking my family's favorite Mommy's Cookies recipe, or my mom's creamy Chicken Pot Pie, puts me right at home (when I don't want to cook Papa John's does too). To make it extra awesome, I like to bake a favorite and then share it with my new friends here. That way I have an excuse to tell them about my family and hear about theirs.

Explore
Exploring is one of the absolute best ways to get out of a homesick funk. "I need a scenery change," is all I have to say,and Kurt knows exactly what I mean. Going somewhere new, even if that means catching the tube to a borough a few stops away, helps me live in the now and remember how blessed I am to be here. This week Kurt and I went to Winter Wonderland, perhaps the single most crowded place in London, with oodles of screaming children and wonderful smells of mulled wine and smoked chorizo, all enjoyed while freezing our limbs numb. We also experienced Carols by Candlelight, a beautiful concert at the Royal Albert Hall (Kurt's favorite event of the season). Works wonders I tell you!

Be Honest
Be honest with yourself and with others about your homesickness - chances are you're not alone. Even if you are "alone," sharing will help you feel understood. When I've been honest about what I'm experiencing everyone's responded with lots of love and support. Not only that, but just admitting to myself that I'm missing familiarity helps me accept my situation and move on.

Do you have any tips to add? If you're spending the holidays away from home, I'd love to hear about where you are and why. You're not alone!

Michaela Rae

Trends I'll Live Without

There are a few things I just can't get on board with. You know the fashion trends from the 80's that everyone can't believe they wore? I'm pretty sure these trends will make for some pretty embarrassing photos for people 30 years from now.

1. Combat Boots - I'm pretty sure there's nothing you can tell me to change my mind. I just don't see how they're flattering on anyone, besides a soldier (gotta love a man in uniform).

2. (super) High-waisted Shorts/Pants - Flattering? I think the answer is, 9 times out of 10, no. I can get behind high wasted skirts, that's a whole other story, but shorts that make you look like you have a long crotch and a balloon bottom? No thanks. Don't they screaming "mom pants" a little?

3. Velvet Dresses - all they register with me are memories of the leotards I used to wear in gymnastics. Perhaps velvet's best in leotard form (unless we're talking about edible red velvet). I'm definitely not convinced velvet has something good to offer in dress form.

4. Clogs - they're trying to make a comeback, but I hope they won't get far. Perhaps I'd be more open to them if I didn't have memories of older women wearing these when I was younger. Also they just look heavy, bulky and awkward. They're especially bad with socks.

What's your take on these trends? Am I dead wrong? 

I promise I'm normally not this negative - it's all in good humor. I certainly don't mean any offense, if by chance, you live and breath high-waisted jeans and clogs. I'll have to make up for it with a post on current fashion trends I love (then you can critique them all you want).

Read: Trends I'll Live Without (Part II)

Michaela Rae

{photos via Pinterest, see my boards here}

Ways to Make a Temporary Place Feel Like Home

Growing up I shared a room and throughout my college years I always lived with other girls (at one point 7!), so it's been pretty exciting the last couple of months to finally make a home with the hubz. Knowing we're only in London temporarily though has made it a bit of a challenge. Especially given the reality that we're far from anywhere we've ever considered home. I've wondered if it's that important to spend the time, money and energy toward making a little Wimbledon flat like ours feel like home. I decided yes it is! And I've found some easy and most cost-efficient ways to help make the space ours.

The first thing I did was add some colorful couch pillows to our flat. Pillows can help set a quick color theme and feel to any space. Although it's a small step, you'll be surprised what a difference it makes. Our flat was one boring beige blob when we moved in. Beige walls, beige curtains, beige couches - it was ridiculous. Adding a few teal pillows helped break up the beige and gave me a starting point for the rest of my decorating.

I love the cozy feel that candles and string lighting bring. They're a quick and fairly inexpensive way to dramatically change the mood of a room. We have solar powered string lights draped on our living room windows, but sadly we need a new type, we've learned that trying to use solar power here in London doesn't work out too well (no wonder they were on sale). ;) I found the right image on Pinterest.

Flowers add so much life to a room. Sometimes it can seem kind of silly to buy flowers knowing that they'll only last for a week. But if you appreciate flowers, I think it's a worthwhile gift to yourself and makes your space feel so much more homey. I love what Max from Apartment Therapy has to say about flowers in the home, you can watch here.

Going all out with decor when you're living somewhere temporarily doesn't make much sense, but displaying any DIY piece or special things you're given are definitely worth it. We brought two favorite things with us from the US: a quilt made by a dear friend as a wedding gift, which was then signed by everyone at our wedding, and the adventure sign I made for our engagement and wedding photos. The quilt reminds us of loved ones, and the sign that, no matter where we are or what we're doing, it's all part of a bigger picture and one grand adventure.

I love snooping around in friend's books and photos whenever I visit them. To me they say a lot about a person and give character to a home. Unfortunately, we're only allowed to hang things on the few nails that were already in our walls, but we've still managed to find places to set some up (like the hearth). We couldn't bring many books over either, but with a library membership I quickly filled our small shelf. 

Finally, I've decided to call our flat home. Even though it's temporary, we've found that calling it home helps us embrace our space and living situation all the more. At the end of the day, our flat is home. It's the place we lay our heads, have dinner parties, spend time together and just unwind and refuel. Instead of dwelling on the past or over-focusing on the future, calling it home helps me live in the present.

What makes your space feel like home?

Michaela Rae

Packing On the Brain

I was getting ready for bed last night when my brain started ticking: what and how am I going to pack for our move? I've packed big before, once for a three month trip to Argentina and then my move to Cali. Moving overseas takes it to a whole new level though.

Our goal is to each check two bags for our flight. Once we find where we'll live we might have a box of books and perhaps one with kitchen/household supplies shipped to us. On previous trips I've used vacuum bags for clothes and they've worked tremendously. We were gifted some so I'll definitely use them. I also like the roll up method for packing clothes. It seems to save space but I'm not 100% sure. What do you think? I'm praying I'll have room for my crafting supplies. I'd be pretty sad if I can't squeeze them in.

I'd love to hear any packing tips you have. Also, if you've been to/lived in England, which things you'd advice we take along. A sweet lady from our church in CA, for example, bought us all the spices we could possibly need because she says food there is bland. I wouldn't have thought of that.

In other news, Kurt and I had a much needed date night tonight. It seems funny to say that since we've been spending so much time together, but with all the traveling and staying with family, our regular way of communicating and "spending time" together had been thrown off. It was nice to get away. We went to cute downtown Downers Grove and had Giordano's. Mmmm! I love Chicago style pizza.

Michaela Rae