Seventeen

Hello, there !

It's been a while. A lot of things happened in the meantime. Not 'big' things. Not 'important' things. Just things that were important to me. Things that changed my perspective a little bit.

As the New Year is approaching, all I want to do is write my plans on paper. I know, I know. I did this many times before and it didn't make any difference at all, but this time I want it to be different. I want my plans to become reality. I want my words to have power. I want to know how to use my words properly, so that I can achieve what I really want.

In other words, my mom takes part in a handmade fair. She worked really hard for it and I even painted some wooden ornaments for Christmas. As I'm typing this post, she's still there, making magic happen :) To support her (and also because I've been meaning to do this for a long time now), this year I am making all the cookies, cakes, biscuits - you got the idea. I am SO excited about this! I love baking, cooking, although I had a bit of a love-hate relationship with food in the past (but I am glad to say that I moved on and now I am fine). So, I guess this makes me look forword to the days ahead! Christmas is just around the corner! :)

I used to be very excited about Christmas. This year feels different, though. Of course I love the holidays, the joy and kindness that they bring to people! I just think I grew up. You know, when you think about a year - 12 months, 48 weeks, you think it doesn't make a big difference in one's life. Or at least that's what I used to think. I know I am wrong now - a year can change so much. I can only be happy that I came to realize some things. I know I have a lot more stuff to understand, realize, feel . I just want to enjoy the whole process. I am 17. I want to be happy with myself and achieve as many things as I can.

Thanks for reading some of my thoughts :) I want to wish all of you a merry Christmas! I wish you warmth, peace, happiness, health ! I know you'll have a wonderful time, wherever you are! :)

Larisa

Lately

Oh, hello ! :)

It's been over a month since I've last posted here, but I am ok with that. I check my blog and my e-mail several times a day, I visit my favourite blogs everytime a new post goes up and I feel like this is pretty good. 

I am still working on having a balanced life style (or maybe that's what we all do?). School keeps me busy (and tired) all the time, so it feels really nice to be able to do something else too - like reading, watching Grey's Anatomy, painting, dreaming and sleeping. Yes, these days I'm really enjoying sleeping. Sometimes it's great to just unplug yourself from the real world and recharge, don't you think?

On the other hand, I think that Fall has finally settled in! The air is very crisp, leaves are changing their color and we even had a couple of rainy days over here. This season I am loving apples, cinnamon and pumpkin. This summer I've started to cook and bake all by myself and I'm very delighted to say that I keep doing this. Three week ago I've made pumpkin bread for the first time (because it's not an usual recipe here, in Romania) and it was delicious ! I've never thought pumpkin would make such a neat ingredient! Also, I have to say that cooking/baking gives me peace and makes me feel calm. It's like a therapy. Besides, I like to surprise my mom every now and then with a new dish. 

The photo above was taken this past weekend, when my city, Craiova, was celebrating it's days (every year, at the end of October, the city is getting festive - there are lots of events, theatre plays, handmade fairs, concerts). At the airport was taking place some kind of air performance - there were lots of planes which were doing all those loops in the air. It was a pleasure for the eye! Since the school started I've managed to go out in the weekends and even during the week. It's been fantastic to recharge myself and just breath the fresh air. Also, I want to make more time for drawing/painting. I've been inspired by the idea of taking 30 minutes every day for doing something you love - draw, paint, write, read. It's very important to make time for what you love, in my opinion!

In case you've read everything I've written above, you have to know that I really appreciate! I know I'm not posting very often, but I have big plans and mighty goals, so I'm always thinking about the amazing blogosphere. I hope to see you soon. Have an excellent week and, in case you're in doubt, go write down that idea that's been wandering in your head or make that thing that you've been meaning to do for so long! 

Much love,

Larisa 

P.S. Did I tell you? I've decided: Fall is my favourite season! Happy Halloween ( in case you are celebrating)! :)

Hello, beautiful !

Hey, there!

How are you, guys? It feels so weird to pop up here ( I know, it's my blog) after such a long period of time. Honestly, I am really bad at long term goals . I mean, it all started with the New Year's wishes and goals. I wanted really bad to blog at least five days a week and for a short period of time (like a month or so) it worked for me - sometimes better while other times with more struggle, but I managed to blog pretty often. Anyway, what I haven't thought about was the fact that I may not be able to write everyday something interesting (other than the fact that I had school, I did some homework etc) for a long period of time, so, after some time, I thought it would be wiser to take a break and breathe some fresh air. BUT I am still trying to educate myself to have more patience and find more time for the things I love :)

Here are some things that I'll start doing more often, in order to keep a balanced lifestyle :

• Write my goals/plans/wishes on paper. I am a visual person and I think this will help me a lot. Oh, two days ago I made a visual board (using a Feng Shui method). My gosh, does it make a difference!
• Stress less. I know, pretty common, but really. P!nk's song (which is really popular right now) really spoke to me. You should listen it, if you haven't already!
• Go to bed earlier. Do you know why kids are so happy? If not, then let me tell you: they get all the sleep they need. I've found out (genius) that going to bed earlier really changes my mood - I'm more positive, more enthusiastic, I have more energy and, obviously, makes me get up earlier (and this way, I have more time to do what needs to be done). Try it! :)
• Eat at least one fruit a day. I've started doing this at the beginning of July and I've been amazed by the results! I'm not making up this - I feel the difference. Not only my skin and my hair feel healthier, but I am also feeling good on the inside. 

Ok, I've finally did this! I am so happy to have posted on the blog today - I am visiting it every single day and today I've finally had the time and the courage to say something important (to me). Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and I'll see you guys soon! Have a good night (or morning/noon/evening, if you live somewhere else)! :)

A hard week

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Yeah, that's all I can say. Getting up early in the morning, doing homework and studying. Nothing worth sharing, but I thought it would be nice to say 'hello' :D

Hope you're having a great week!

A crush...

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I have a crush on this one!

Be happy!

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Just wanted to wish you a happy week! Start the week fresh - get up a little earlier, have a delicious breakfast, dress up in your favourite dress and be a love letter to the universe!

Have a beautiful week!

Looking back...

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This weekend I am loving these high sandals, this post, this inspiring idea, my mom's beautiful work and my best friend's smile!

Happy weekend!

British nails

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I love those nails! They make me so happy! What makes you happy right now? :)

Kony 2012

You can be the change you want to see in the world! Get involved! You can watch the video right here.

A word of encouragement

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You are stronger than you believe. You can do this. You'll do great!

Good luck! :)

I'm trying...

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These days I am really trying to do my best at school and think positive. It's very challenging for me as I am a sensitive person, but I am doing my best!

A piece of advice that I can give is to think of the things that you can do today in order to make tomorrow better. I encourage you to live in the present moment (but you can also make goals for the future to keep you fresh and positive!).Also, I always make imaginary lists. They help me a lot in the every day life, although I'm not an organised person.

Do something for you everyday. It doesn't have to be something big or important. You can paint your nails once in a while. You can read a book. You can listen to your favourite band. It doesn't matter. Just spend some time with yourself!

I am trying really hard to keep a balance between school and spare time. I know I need both of them in order to grow as a person!

How are you? :)

If you have a library...

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The quote is speaking itself. I can't wait to read something good!

Night-night! :)

These days...

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I haven't been feeling really well. I think it's because of the stress. I really can't take it anymore, but it's Sunday evening and I know that this week will be a challenging one. I want to do my best while staying fresh and positive.

I'll take a deep breath and try again. Wish me luck! (oh, and sorry for all those posts- I'm trying to remain as happy as I can)

Thank you for reading this! :)

Best friends

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Today was a really tiring day. I'm not feeling well at all. I am trying hard to overcome this feeling, but it seems like it won't go away in the near future. I am still hoping.

In other words, today I got to spend some priceless time with my best friend. I really enjoyed being with her - you know, talking and laughing. It was great! Tomorrow will be a big day for her (she'll do great).

How are you?

Friday, I'm looking back

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This week I am totally loving my best friend, the March 'Photo a day challenge', all the inspiration that comes from this blog , these shoes from Forever21, Paper Sparrow's four year anniversary, beautiful music and my wonderful family!

March, I hope you'll be the sweetest month!

Oh, hello March

Oh, hello March!

These days I haven't been feeling very well, but I am doing my best to cheer myself up and enjoy the beginning of the spring. It's no secret that I really like spring.

I can't wait to :

• wear dresses
• wear high heels
• write in my self-love bible (I'll share a few pages soon)
• follow my dreams
• be a good friend
• have a holiday (yeah, I really need one!)
• illustrate more
• take good pictures
• live life to the fullest
• enjoy myself
• be who I am

What are you looking forward to? I'd love to hear!

It takes time...

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Time is an important element in our lives. We often find ourselves saying 'I don't have time fo this' or ''I'm gonna be late". Blogging taught me that you can find time for the things you like. I am a person with limited time (like most of us). I am always late and I often find myself going to bed around 12 AM (considering that I'm getting up at 6:20 AM).

Since the beginning of this year I've been blogging every single day. I don't illustrate everyday and I am not happy every moment, but I'm trying really hard to find 5 minutes -yes, 5 minutes- to write a few words and leave you a meaningful picture.

This time I want to encourage you to find time for the things you enjoy doing. Also, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the lovely comments I am getting and for every single view. You're wonderful!

February

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February was a special month so far. I worked really, really hard at school. I slept very little. I cried a lot. I had hard times. BUT all in all, I think it was an unique month because it was worth it!

This month I've discovered the wonderful and ever-inspiring One Direction. I've also started my Self-love Bible (idea belonging to Gala Darling). I've made new friends. I've been myself. I saw my best friend happy -really, really happy - and it was wonderful.

How was February for you?

A quick something

This is just a quick portrait of a special friend of mine. It was made in about 4 minutes, but I really like how it turned out.

In other words, tomorrow it's a big day for me. I have a bunch of tests. I hope everything will be just fine in the end :)

How are you?

Sunday

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Today was all about catching up. I've done my homework and I've slept in! It was so goood! Tomorrow I have school so I have to come back to my lessons. I'll come with some actual work soon!

Larisa

Black and white wisdom

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I love quotes. They inspire me everyday!

Do you have a favorite quote?

Friday, I'm looking back

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This Friday I am loving this inspiring post by Amy Morby, this motivational post by Vera, this site called Personal Excellence, which is full of useful tips regarding self-confidence and self-esteem, those high sandals from Asos, this beautiful, beautiful wedding dress, this inspiring Etsy shop!

Do you have links worth sharing? Share them in the comments! :)

English love

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Hey!

Today I've been studying hard for a contest. I am very nervous, but also excited! I love English! I have wanted to paint/draw/illustrate these days, so I hope I'll find some time in the weekend for this.

How are you?

Rose ring

Just wanted to show you one of my favorite rings. I made it with my talented mom sometime this Fall and I have to say I am wearing it all the time. It brings a smile to my face everytime :)

Do you have a favorite ring?

Balloon girl

Hey!

As I told you yesterday, I've done some painting. I really enjoyed the process! It all about a girl full of faith and goals, who wears dresses and curls.

What do you think? :)

Good night!

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Today I've done some painting and worked really hard for school. I am very tired right now and, as I didn't have the time to take a picture of my newest painting, I though it would be nice to tell you that I'm here and alive :)

Good night!

A look inside my sketchbook

Just a little, little look inside my sketchbook. I didn't have the time to bring this little girl to life with colors, but I thought it would be a good idea to show you something.

I have so many drawings which need to be finished. Oh! Time is such a big problem for me. I'll try to be more organized. I promise!

Saturday

I spent my Saturday listening to music and preparing for a contest. I would really like to paint something right away :)

How was your day?

Friday, I'm looking back

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Hi there!

Today I didn't go to school, because of the illness. Now I'm feeling better :) It's that time of the week again - Friday! Oh, this is gonna be a busy weekend, but I'll try to enjoy it to the fullest.

This week I am loving One Direction songs, this pretty dress styled by Elsie Larson, Lois Van Baarle's art work, this sweet vlog and all the inspiration from Lookbook!

Do you have plans for the weekend?

Tea time

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Today I got sick. I am not feeling really well and I think I need lots of rest. Some tea will help me for sure!

I'll come back with some drawings soon. At least, I'll try :)

This year...

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This year I want to take more photos (good ones, I hope) and then print them in order to make an album of this year. Thank you so much, Vera , for the inspiration!

How are you?

Two hearts

Today I wanted to say 'cheese' to the camera. It was kind of funny to shoot these photos! A pink heart, a red heart...Well, I hope your V'day was a happy one!

Oh, love

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I am not a big fan of Valentine's Day. I think you should show your love every day, not just one day in the whole year. Anyways, as I liked the image, I thought it would be nice to share.

So, I really hope you'll have a wonderful, heart-shaped day tomorrow! What do you thing about V'day?

3 tips for better illustrations

Hey, there! :)

As promised, I am here with something worth reading (or at least, this is my opinion). Last week was so exhausting and I didn't have the time to create/write something. So, here I am with 3 tips for better illustrations.

I'll be sharing tips from my own, personal experience. They may not be the best, but the tips I am sharing tought me important lessons. Here they are:

1. Keep a sketchbook. It doesn't really matter if you keep a sketchbook or just carry some sheets of paper with you. The idea is that you should write down your ideas and constantly work on improving your skills. It's important for you to develop a habit (a good one, actually).
2. Watch. Always, always try new techniques, textures and patterns. In order to do this, you have to watch people, movements, objects and everything that surrounds you. Life itself is an inspiration.
3. Do it your way. Well, this simple reminder is speaking itself. I know and I agree that there are hard times - creative blocks, routine and tiredness, but being inspired does not mean being a thief. I know those are big words, but let's just do it our way : see, be inspired and create your own concept, your own, personal idea. More importantly, you'll be satisfied with yourself and your work of art. You are you. Don't forget that :)
   

Well, I really hope you enjoyed these three tips :) If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. I love and appreciate each and every comment!

I am planning to...

[photo taken by my dad]

These days I have been day-dreaming a lot. I have so many things that I want to do! As I have "The list" (inspired by Holly) for long term goals, I want to do a short term list for plans! So, my February list would be :

• draw an anorexia themed series
  
• photoshop more
• take pictures
  
• wear a dress
• don't waste time
• read a book
• be friendly, kind and thankful
• do creative things

What are your plans for February?

Friday, I'm looking back

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It's Friday!

This week I am loving this beautiful and inspiring blog , the style of this blogger, this quote, Lula magazine, this amazing photostream on Flickr, this zig-zag nail tutorial .

What are your plans for the weekend?

Positive thoughts

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The lovely Kate from Wake up, lovely designed a positivity poster, which made me smile today! Her blog is full of pretty things, inspiration and ideas :) You should take a look!

Be positive,

Larisa

A little note

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These days I have been writing compositions and studying for a competition. I am really tired, but I am happy with myself. I think this is an important step for me.

I have many ideas at the moment, both for the blog and the compositions. Don't worry, I'll come back with something worth reading (I 'll share some tips).

How are you?

Color love: Turquoise

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Some of you don't know, but turquoise is my favorite color. Yes, it's true :) When I was little I loved blue. Now I love both blue and green and that's turquoise.

I would like to use more turquoise in my illustrations, but I guess I just have to find the courage to express myself better.

In other words, today was a full day. I still have lots to do, but I am sure it will be all good in the end. Thank you so much for reading this little blog :)

Which is your favorite color?

Be yourself

Oh, hello there :)

This is just an old fashion illustration I did. Today I've made the fashion illustration some kind of print, because I want to do a series of illustration with the theme: "Self-love".

I used to do lots of fashion illustration, but now I like to say that I've found my own style, which is a combination between fashion illustration and posters.

What do you think about this? :)
Happy Monday!

This Sunday...

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This bed looks so cozy and all I want to do now is sleep. Although it was Sunday, I had lots of things to do (like homework) and I am very sleepy right now.

I have some exciting ideas for new illustrations. Can't wait to tell you more!

Good night,

Larisa

A look inside my sketchbook

This is my newest 'project' . It's the first time I am painting flowers (I mean, only flowers). I have to say they make me happy, fulfilled. It wonderful to know you can try new things anytime you want to!

What are you working on?

Friday, I'm looking back

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Hello!

It's Friday! Tomorrow I'm going to have an English competition, so I'm pretty nervous. How are you? Here are things that are inspiring me this week:

1. Amy's self-love revolution
2. This post called '7 ways to make your day better'
3. This post by Gala Darling called 'What do you love about yourself?'
4. Chantilly's guide to meditation
5. Maie Dae's 5 things
6. This creative idea by Alisa Burke

What is inspiring you this week? :)