Favorite Holiday Traditions - Blogmas Day 3

Hello, love <3

 Today's Blogmas post is all about holiday traditions. As most of you know my family celebrates Hanukkah, which begins in only 3 days! Every year we whip out the festive decorations and fill our living room with pops of blue. I really look forward to this because it fills my heart with lots of love.

 A couple years ago my grandmas sent us a whole bunch of dreidels & make your own menorahs that we still have to this day! Every year we take out our big Ikea bag of decorations and set up the dreidels and clay oil jugs (part of the story of Hanukkah) on our mantle. We also have a pack of silver and blue ornaments. Although we don't decorate a tree, we do use the baubles by setting them up ever so carefully behind the dreidels on the mantle against the wall. We have to get them just right, so they don't fall off the mantle and get glitter everywhere!

 Every year, my family & friends attend a community menorah lighting on one of the nights of Hanukkah, led by our Rabbi. The menorah is huge and it feels like our entire Jewish community is coming together! 

Last year's menorah lighting

 An obvious tradition is lighting the menorah each night. Usually we'll divide the number of candles we have to light that night among each person in my family, so we all get a chance to light one. For some reason I am intrigued watching the wax slowly melt away until there's none left. 

Another photo from last December

 During Hanukkah we eat foods fried in oil to celebrate the miracle of the oil lasting for 8 days, hence 8 days of Hanukkah and 8 candles. These foods include latkes, also known as potato pancakes, and donuts. At the Hebrew School I volunteer at the kids make these foods and other Hanukkah crafts which is always really fun to help with.

 Finally, playing with dreidels. Such a simple, childish game, yet it's so fun. 

Instructions for the game, if you're interested :)

 My sisters and I each choose a dreidel from the wide selection my grandmas sent from Israel :) We always have some gelt (chocolate coins) lying around this time of year, so we put it all in the middle and play till there's none left. We also have dreidel-offs with my dad, to see who can leave a dreidel spinning the longest ... he usually wins, haha.

 It was fun to recall all of these traditions as my family and I will be doing them again very soon. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Leave a comment!

 Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*

Wish List! - Blogmas Day 2

Hello, love <3

 Today I am sharing with you what is on my list for Hanukkah this year! Hanukkah begins in 4 days as of the day this goes up (the evening of the 6th)! I'm thinking of doing some Hanukkah-themed posts during Blogmas; I'm pretty sure I did some last year.

 Feel free to put some of the things you would like to receive this year in the comment section! I'd love to hear from you.

My Hanukkah 2015 Wish List:

• Nerdy Nummies Cookbook by Rosanna Pansino
• Yummy scented candles/soaps
• Leather Notebook
• Lush stuff
• Laptop case
• Tea of all flavors
• Makeup mirror
• Maybelline The Blushed Nudes palette
• Troye Sivan Live tickets (which I already got as one of my Hanukkah presents because presale went live on November 25 and my friend and I got VIP TICKETS!! I AM BEYOND EXCITED THANK YOU MOM & DAD! I'm going with my amazing friend Michelle, you can access her blog here)
• Polaroid camera
• Michael Kors backpack - this was also included in one of last year's Blogmas posts (which you can find here, if you'd like)!
• Brown boots & boot socks
• Vinyl Record Player (I know, I know it's ridiculous, expensive, and records these days are ridiculously priced, but one day I'd really like to own one. Maybe I'll save up!)

 What is on your wish list and what holiday do you celebrate?

 Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*

November Favorites - Blogmas Day 1

Pretty proud of this Blogmas edit; I used PicMonkey if you were wondering.

Hello, love <3

 It has been absolute ages since I last wrote a favorites post! So, as my first Blogmas 2015 post, I am showing you what I have been using non-stop this past November! Each product (that has a link) will be linked to where you can purchase it if you'd like to! I also used a festive holiday blanket as my photo backdrop, haha. Enjoy :)

Pumpkin Gingerbread Candle (Bath & Body Works)

I asked my sister if she knew of anything I had been using a lot this month and the first thing she said was "candles." I have been LOVING candles the past couple month, but this month I burned them like crazy... 3 at a time crazy. This candle has got to be my favorite, though: Pumpkin Gingerbread by Bath & Body Works. It's the perfect blend of spicy and sweet and makes my room smell like a bakery. Sadly, I believe it has been discontinued/is not being sold this year, so I don't have a link :(

Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Cream (Bath & Body Works)

I use this cream after I shave to prevent ashy skin, or on my face when I need a refresher. It's cooling as it is made with mint, and if you're feeling tired or stressed (it is a "stress relief" cream) I'd recommend using this to refresh you and get you focused. I feel very calm once it's on my skin.

Scrubbing Me Softly Smoothing Body Scrub (Zoella)

Recently I've been using this on my back, but I've also used it on my legs. It's not harsh at all; it's very smooth and soft on your skin (just as the name says!). The scent isn't too overwhelming, yet it's still sweet and kind on your skin. If you have dry skin I'd recommend using this and following up with a lotion.

The Amazing Book is Not on Fire by Dan Howell & Phil Lester

My awesome friend, Caitlin, lent me this book and I'm nearly finished! I love the style of the book, how it's kind of a conversation between you, Dan, and Phil. I love how it covers a wide range of topics about them - their high school/college life, YouTube stories, going to Japan, fears, etc. I feel like I know a lot more about these two goofballs now and I've really enjoyed their book. Plus, it's super colorful.

YouTube Bookshelf

Partly because I just mentioned two YouTubers and partly because I'm really proud of this, I thought I'd mention my YouTube shelf. This shelf inspires me and makes me smile every time I look at it.

Denim Long-Sleeve Shirt

I found this shirt in the spare wardrobe we have upstairs where my mom has some random clothing items. I've been pairing it with dresses, simple tops and leggings, you name it. It's very versatile - it can be worn buttoned or unbuttoned. Even though it's really simple, I think it adds more to an outfit than a normal denim jacket.

Heeled Brown Boots (Belk)

I got these boots at Belk last year and boy, have I worn them to death. Actually, they're in great shape. But I have worn them A LOT. THEY GO WITH PRACTICALLY EVERYTHING!! Especially with colors like maroon or creme. The heel is super cute and makes me feel tall. Plus, the material is suede-y so they're soft and comfortable. Even though they have a heel I can wear them for hours without my feet aching.

Plaid Scarf (Forever 21)

I searched 5 minutes for a link to this item but I couldn't find one :( It was only $6! Pretty cheap for a staple accessory that can be worn pretty much any time of year. It's quite thin, so even during warm weather you would be comfortable. The colors are quite neutral, so I've been wearing it a lot and with different things. The main outfit I put together around this scarf is a black dress and black boots, so it acts as a pop of color. I love it!

Sweater Mug (Target)

I didn't find the exact product link, but something similar. I found this in the dollar section of the store! It was $3 but that's still a great deal if you ask me. I think it comes in multiple colors, I've seen maroon and grey. I have been drinking out of it nonstop! I included this in my Fall Haul video and I am so glad I bought it! The sweater protects your hand as this mug does get burning hot. Plus I just feel really festive drinking out of it.

Zen Tea (Tazo)

To go along with the mug, I have a favorite tea this month! My mom went out and bought around 6 or so flavors and I've tried them over the past couple weeks and this has got to be one of my top favorites. The box says: "A harmonious blend of green tea with lemongrass & spearmint." Sometimes I find it a bit too bitter (that might be because I steep it too long) so I add a pinch of sugar in, but even with out the sugar I like to sip this tea when I need to concentrate and when I just want to relax. Ooh, and I definitely taste the lemon which I love! Fun fact - I'm drinking it as I'm writing this post :)

On-The-Spot Acne Treatment (Neutrogena)

My previous spot treatment, by the brand Clean and Clear, was an amazing product. I ran out of it a couple weeks ago after using it for several months and before I can get a new one, I decided I'd use this product that I already had lying around. I was a bit skeptical at first because this formula is quite watery as opposed to the paste consistency of Clean and Clear, but it has proved to be just as effective! 

Mini Coconut Shower Cream (The Body Shop)

This was a birthday gift last year, but I had a bunch of Bath & Body Works body washes I needed to finish off at the time, so when those were through I turned to this one. Even though it is quite thick, it smells heavenly and feels quite moisturizing; I can really feel it cleaning my skin. Even though it's a mini size, it has lasted a good amount of time and I still have more, as you can see!

Autumn Inspiration Board

Lastly, I created this inspo board as a simple DIY to spice up my room for Autumn, and now that Winter is approaching I wanted to include it in here. Whenever I look at this board I get this cozy, fall feeling. I placed it above the desk where I do homework, so whenever I felt like closing my textbook or putting my pencil down out of anger or annoyance I looked up at it and refocused myself. I think I'm going to keep the bulletin board up but change what's on it for every season!

 I hope you enjoyed reading about my November 2015 favorites/the first day of Blogmas 2015! I will see you tomorrow with a brand new post!

 Also, I added the poll feature to my blog. I'd love it if you took part, I think it's just a fun way to interact with other readers. You can find it on the top right section of my blog. I'm thinking of changing the question every week, what do you think?

 Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*

One Year of Blogging!

Hello, love <3

     Today, one year ago, I posted my first blog post to this blog. 

     I titled it Writing simply because that is what I love to do. I added the header "just me expressing through a keyboard" simply because that was my goal. And it fills me with such joy to say I have been doing so for one year. 

     Thank you so much to you, a reader. Just by reading the thoughts I present in these posts you make me happy. 

     Thank you for reading, for commenting, for supporting! As today is Thanksgiving here in America, I would like to say how grateful I am to have this platform where I can write down what I feel with out judgement or fear. I am so grateful for this blog and all the positive impacts it has had on my life. 

(To all those who celebrate, Happy Thanksgiving!)

     I will continue to come to this blog when there's something I need to say but I can't seem to find the words to say it out loud. I will continue to write about things I love and am passionate about. And I hope you will continue to join me on this journey. 

     I feel as though I have become a happier person in general through posting over the last 365 days. I feel as though this blog has allowed me to find and expand my passion for writing. 

     Here's to many more years of "expressing through a keyboard."

     Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon. 

*computer hug*

Accepting Failure

Hello, love <3

     It brings me such joy to be able to say, the holiday season is approaching! Last year, I took part in "Blogmas" - posting a blog post every day in December and I am totally going to do it this year as well! If you'd like to read Blogmas from last year, my first post is linked here.

     I will be in New York & Israel (EEP!) over winter break, so I'll have tons of amazing pictures and moments to share! We are spending two days in New York and twelve in Israel which is beyond exciting. What are your plans for break?

     Speaking of holidays, Thanksgiving is in FIVE days! Meaning, my one year blog-iversary is also in FIVE days!! I created this blog when I was very conflicted and confused and didn't really know how to get my thoughts out of my head. One year later and I don't know if writing would be such a big part of my life if it wasn't for this blog.

     I remember writing my first post and picking out my background and font type. But I'll save all that for when I post my One Year Anniversary post :)

***

     Last Sunday I had decided to let go and have fun instead of worrying so much about the studying and assignments I had to do. I spent the day out with my mom; we went to the mall. It was really fun just to spend time together and momentarily forget what was due the next day, you know?

     Then, I got home and sat down to work. I felt as though I had no time to complete what I needed to complete, when in reality it was only about 4:30 in the afternoon. Still, I panicked. I started memorizing my vocabulary words and became really overwhelmed with the amount of work I had to do. Right at the point where I nearly started crying, one of my mom's best friends, whom I talk to on a weekly basis (she "coaches" me and shows me ways to relax and understand the world in a different way) texted me asking if I wanted to talk. If that's not an amazing coincidence I don't know what is.

     So I called her and we ended up not talking about what she had originally planned because I explained to her what I was upset about. Our conversation that day revolved around failure. She brought up a really honest point: in simple terms, you live and you learn.

     You need to fail in order to get better.

     You need to fail in order for you to realize that you need to keep going.

     She had me write a sentence down, a sentence I had to create myself to remind myself of what we had talked about: I take on challenges and know that they are what make me stronger. I'm ready to fail.

     That test I had to study for and that paper I had to plan out were still important things on my mind, but after our chat I took it easy. I took a step back and said, you are going to finish this. You are going to put your best effort forward and the outcome will be what ever it will be.

     A few days later, some of my friends were texting on our group message and were saying how overwhelmed they are and how they won't be able to finish this and that. I told them this:

     "I know we have all had it really tough recently, and I just want y'all to know that, even if you don't believe it, everything will be okay & everything will work itself out. I know homework may not be the only thing you're worried about, but keep in mind, it's just high school. We'll be out of here soon and exploring the world..."

     There was quite a bit more but my point is, focusing on how much you have to do won't get you anywhere. If you know you are not going to finish, accept it. It won't be the end of the world. Granted, if it's something really important, put 100% effort and do what you can. 

     You need to fail in order to get better.

     The word failure might scare some people. To be completely honest, it scares me a little bit. But I know that I have to fail in order to see that it's not the end of the world, but I do need to persevere.

     Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*

Strolling Down YouTube Memory Lane

Hello, love <3

     I've realized that I haven't really talked much about YouTube on my blog, apart from my Playlist Live posts (which you can find here, here, here, and here!). But as I was contemplating what to write about, I stared up at my shelf full of books written by the content creators I watch on the screen of my laptop or phone everyday, and decided that's what I'll write about.

     I have been watching YouTube for more than 2 years now, and over that time period I have become part of a family. A family made up of people who don't really know that I exist (lol), but I love them nonetheless.

     I turn to YouTube when I'm happy, when I'm sad, when I'm angry, nervous, excited, bored, procrastinating, content: any time, really. There's always new content to watch, but then again, there's also tons of old content that makes me smile any time I go back to it.

     Some of my favorite videos of all time are:

Dan and Phil react to Teens React to Dan and Phil

Baking Lemon Drizzle Cake With Zoella! | Tanya Burr

If Websites Were People... (Part 1)

Waxing My Legs With Zoella

Singing With Helium (ALL OF THEM)

ALL of Joe's Los Angeles Vlogs

Tyler Gets His Hand Stuck In Elevator (Brighton Vlog)

Surprise Signing & Frickle Frackling | Playlist 2014 Day 3

Cute Boy Spotting ft. Blessing

What I Eat in a Day (Niomi Smart) (ALL OF THEM)

Baking a Lemon Meringue (This one is extra special, because when I met Jim I talked to him about it)

The Ultimate Pancake Battle

Guess the YouTuber

Tell Me Why

What Popular Songs Really Mean (especially #2)

The Annoying Challenge

How Well Do We Know Each Other?

     Those are just a few of the thousands upon thousands of videos that have made me happy and smile and laugh. Who are your favorite YouTubers?

     There is something about this platform that brings me so much joy and warmth. What would I do with out these people? I am so immensely proud of each and every one of them. Here's to every thumbs up, every milestone, every person who has ever clicked that "subscribe" button on this platform. We're all one giant YouTube family.

     Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*

Disappointment or Fate?

Hello, love <3

     Monday evening I tried out for my high school's Swim Team. Try outs were supposed to be both Monday and Tuesday night, but for some reason the coaches changed the plan and told us after we finished swimming that the team would be announced that same night.

     So after swimming my hardest and fastest, I went back home and sat by my phone, checking my email every 5 seconds so I wouldn't miss the message with the team roster. When that moment finally did come, I discovered that I didn't make the team.

     Yes, I had a good cry and yes I was upset. I'd worked my hardest, harder than I ever had before.

     But, it wasn't for nothing. Just because I didn't make the team doesn't mean I'm going to throw everything away. I am going to continue swimming and I'm not going to dwell on the fact that I'm not a part of the team this year. Because of the conditioning workouts I slowly became more and more proud of myself.

     A big part of trying out for the swim team was college. I'm in my first year of high school, but I don't think it's too early to start thinking about college. Of course, I do say I like to live in the now, but college is a huge part of my academic career. So, I began thinking about how I'm going to get in.

     It worried me. I'm not an athletic person. I went into swimming this year with a mindset that if I don't make the team, I'm not going to go to college because I'm just another person with good grades.

     That mindset slowly began to shift. As I was going to these workouts every day after school, I was forming a family with all of these other people. I was having fun and felt as though I were a part of something. College completely slipped my mind during those times.

     After discovering that I didn't make the team, I took a step back to reflect:

     Sports is not my thing.

     But I do have so many other qualities that I know a school perfect for me is going to value one day. Writing this I'm kind of surprising myself. I'm in the 9th grade. College is far, far away. Then again, it'll probably be here in the blink of an eye.

     I also talked to my parents about not making the cut. They know I want to pursue my writing somehow in the future. And they also know that I worked my butt off this month trying to get fit, improve, prove myself to the coach and in the end, myself as well.

     My mom reassured me that not making the team my freshman year isn't going to get in the way of the things I have planned out for the future. She also told me there is a reason behind every decision and event.

     There's a reason I didn't make the team. I don't know what that reason is. Whether it was because of my amateur swimming technique, or something more latent. Something that I might never find out about. Maybe something bad would've happened if I made the team. Then again, maybe not. But I've learned to accept the fate that is mine instead of dwelling on it and being disappointed.

     Next time something unfavorable happens in your life, reflect not on how what happened didn't unfold as you had hoped, but rather how what happened, happened. It was meant to be that way. You may not be able to change it, but you can accept it.

     Thank you for reading and I'll talk to you soon.

*computer hug*