tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75974368570114133702024-03-04T23:20:53.104-08:00Style AnthologyMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-34508385146411307942018-10-21T22:59:00.000-07:002018-10-21T23:16:37.235-07:00Berlin<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 1: ARRIVAL</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After several days of whirlwind adventures, we finally made it to the much anticipated part of our journey: Berlin. We arrived in the sunny city a little past 11am on Sunday morning. Driving into the city, knew we were right where we belonged.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Side street cafes, people on bikes, graffiti clad facades, and casual bohemian chic pedestrians welcomed our ever so eager eyes as we made our way from the airport to our hostel. Personally, I've never stayed inside a hostel. I've heard many positive experiences from friends who've said that it's a good way to travel and to meet people. We decided to stay at <a href="https://www.hostel-lekkerurlaub.de/de/hostel-berlin-kreuzberg">Lekkerurlaub Hostel</a><u><span id="goog_1325648647"></span></u><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><u><span id="goog_1325648648"></span></u> after reading many reviews to help broaden our travel experience. You're only young once, right?</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Upon arrival, we were greeted by our host, Elias, who was very kind and gracious. Our room was very clean and the entire hostel was quiet, clean, and well maintained. It had a nice country charm about it. I was pretty surprised at the level of cleanliness and organization of the entire place. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After settling in, we decided to head to <a href="https://www.houseofsmallwonder.de/">House of Small Wonder</a>, a Japanese "green" cafe located in the Mitte neighborhood of Berlin. Even though we arrived well after typical Sunday lunch hours, around 2:30pm, there was still a waiting list to get a table. We were told that it would take about an hour to get seated. After hanging out at the downstairs cafe/bar for a bit, which I must add, had a very nice underground bar type of feel to it, we were called upstairs to be seated.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJC-s5sQXu_Q9IlTXyhOOTu68dLgmJK6Kk_W2DNQzxTSG5fo0TnGtB1SKqG-za80TbomuTYtqj0C0qlwVTqbF_zasSY7xIHJatHITIoOkfo6XbE0y9LQcpyD_8TgnbQwHeUIuZFEKWZ8/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJC-s5sQXu_Q9IlTXyhOOTu68dLgmJK6Kk_W2DNQzxTSG5fo0TnGtB1SKqG-za80TbomuTYtqj0C0qlwVTqbF_zasSY7xIHJatHITIoOkfo6XbE0y9LQcpyD_8TgnbQwHeUIuZFEKWZ8/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
The restaurant itself was well lit and nicely furnished with lots of greenery and hanging plants. The atmosphere was very warm and inviting, and I definitely felt like I was eating inside of a greenhouse. Having not eaten a substantial meal all morning, Sarah and I wasted no time delving into the menu for something to eat. As many of the popular breakfast/brunch items had run out, we were limited in what we could order. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6nruPZUe9KjeA1bMhQkHyC0p7qUGygWAR91-x6pvABSTre4DHZzs9pWegKTyAdW0jQ715I5TkB7Di2bJ_eOwQmf5ya-JDPd1tvTmpWQ8BSQpgTmWc7SrZmhPvaKk3pwRuFVG1pb2Bzo/s1600/IMG_0301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6nruPZUe9KjeA1bMhQkHyC0p7qUGygWAR91-x6pvABSTre4DHZzs9pWegKTyAdW0jQ715I5TkB7Di2bJ_eOwQmf5ya-JDPd1tvTmpWQ8BSQpgTmWc7SrZmhPvaKk3pwRuFVG1pb2Bzo/s1600/IMG_0301.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
We decided to split the Okinawan Taco Rice (a Tex-Mex favorite with a Japanese twist: ground all-natural pork, chopped vegetables, Parmesan and fried organic egg over rice) and the avocado and goat cheese sandwich. The meal itself was good. Nothing mind blowing, but substantial for what was available. The Onkinawan Taco Rice reminded me a lot of teryiaki beef on rice, and the avocado and goat cheese sandwich was pretty plain. Where the restaurant made up for the food was the dessert: the Earl Grey Chiffon Cake with whipped cream and seasonal fruits. It was a light cake topped with blackberries and fresh cranberries (my favorite) served with a side of lightly sweetened house-made whipped cream. It was a nice ending to an overall relaxing lunch.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3zuK_yJBMjKe6eeizhIetnE7N86dIxqplknt-b5hfm53U44ym3LKJPn-JPKvCdxkGVNMP0hT1m6brZznfPsulvPke-l1h3gSW538O-xol0iCJo49DeHfDhLrD6cRveTTVusoDcb6TQY/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3zuK_yJBMjKe6eeizhIetnE7N86dIxqplknt-b5hfm53U44ym3LKJPn-JPKvCdxkGVNMP0hT1m6brZznfPsulvPke-l1h3gSW538O-xol0iCJo49DeHfDhLrD6cRveTTVusoDcb6TQY/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Afterward, we walked around Mitte to discover beautiful doorways, tons of building graffiti art, and some historical storytelling art pieces throughout the city. It wasn't long before we arrived at our first local flea market. We arrived a little past 4pm, as everything was wrapping up. The environment felt very familiar, as if I was walking through the Long Beach Antique Market. It was a great feeling getting to walk through the maze of vintage curated goods and witness firsthand an actual European flea market. Not that I had expected anything too different, but it felt very surreal to pick things up and see how they curated their items from across the world.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Not too long after, we headed to a larger flea market a few more streets down. This one definitely caught our eyes a lot more than the first one. It was swarming with people browsing vintage, flea marketing goods, lining up for food and drinks, laying on the lawn, blowing bubbles...the list goes on. We had never seen so many people in the city before, and there was such a good vibe throughout the entire park grounds.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lvq96U9KM2d1OLGzl4cpsiTf2YfhGynnDHrVDm_yRzuOzUCwcOu_lrKvSk7VGwFMlaFjlDJvdBUjQt21-zbPbWUinlzEJzhgYmkTfjw-Pm1f7gINNYh8nnW7YA7y4hEd2znhMpFGrnY/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lvq96U9KM2d1OLGzl4cpsiTf2YfhGynnDHrVDm_yRzuOzUCwcOu_lrKvSk7VGwFMlaFjlDJvdBUjQt21-zbPbWUinlzEJzhgYmkTfjw-Pm1f7gINNYh8nnW7YA7y4hEd2znhMpFGrnY/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouHcAk2yJ0eI2R_TASTcWbo1KFWBTYszpabeBPQersAfOvtE1g31Zpwuxl2izHsJc74859akGNibAh_bQQ4ubIpaBrBX8UFTIYWdjYo5Q_PnqunefcNRkgf4e5FqO9mGdyb3rNP6WA0g/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouHcAk2yJ0eI2R_TASTcWbo1KFWBTYszpabeBPQersAfOvtE1g31Zpwuxl2izHsJc74859akGNibAh_bQQ4ubIpaBrBX8UFTIYWdjYo5Q_PnqunefcNRkgf4e5FqO9mGdyb3rNP6WA0g/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Sarah and I had the pleasure of browsing clothing, trying freshly made sugar cane juice, chowing down on a Korean pancake, and wandering around watching people enjoy their Sunday evening at the flea market/park.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
That evening, we hit up a local vegan restaurant before heading off to <a href="https://cassiopeia-berlin.de/">Cassiopeia Club</a> for what we believed would have hip hop music. Having arrived there shortly after 11pm, we realized that the club was supposed to open at 11:30pm but did not change their hours on Yelp. To our dismay, the music was not hip hop, but but reggae.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
With that said, we decided to ditch the scene and head over to <a href="https://www.fitchersvogel.com/">Fitcher's Vogel</a>, a cool bar with 19th century vibes. Sarah found ourselves in a small alcove of the bar which made it easier to chat and relax. People would often pop their heads into our "cave" to see what was happening. We met some friendly new faces in the process. I really enjoyed their graffiti bathroom, which was more artful than it was defaced. After spending about two hours at Fitcher's, it was time to call it a night.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6x0NSXlSXjsgCEPrSM3fNhV5MAvYp03xfUzx6GQqqV0bNjpccVVTXXI3T2_fQJM90S5XEXoCH4lPmrUGsiqlQ6Yrs2FZ5TxZaNxmUCKcjKwQF2JnWuxgS4TKrJSEgC9NU3GEnhi7Dsg/s1600/79B4E9B5-8166-488A-B9CB-816B6D915111+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="1600" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6x0NSXlSXjsgCEPrSM3fNhV5MAvYp03xfUzx6GQqqV0bNjpccVVTXXI3T2_fQJM90S5XEXoCH4lPmrUGsiqlQ6Yrs2FZ5TxZaNxmUCKcjKwQF2JnWuxgS4TKrJSEgC9NU3GEnhi7Dsg/s1600/79B4E9B5-8166-488A-B9CB-816B6D915111+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQVslhq3BspeJB729TJtUHsimTJk9ft9UwUNGq49OCA_zc37neFUmmeaMsswTr-d6hJM4LJXKUsROm7D1pLiPgM8OjyAAXgkwPQ-jDWkZ8Ad92_NS56mDlB9ps27UUVN9fZgCgIY8XKY/s1600/IMG_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQVslhq3BspeJB729TJtUHsimTJk9ft9UwUNGq49OCA_zc37neFUmmeaMsswTr-d6hJM4LJXKUsROm7D1pLiPgM8OjyAAXgkwPQ-jDWkZ8Ad92_NS56mDlB9ps27UUVN9fZgCgIY8XKY/s640/IMG_0460.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzgmD-U3jBDi4xblpLQ3Wnb8DyiZSpcOETAF2CeKIxlX3Uuexj4E2WclXwr9S4Slib2L8O-veuag3h62VI6jNbuBmW4t-NVyhw9_8dewhK3c1SxMs01sC5039DIw7gy3FVNm4twvWJ4Y/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1414" data-original-width="1600" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzgmD-U3jBDi4xblpLQ3Wnb8DyiZSpcOETAF2CeKIxlX3Uuexj4E2WclXwr9S4Slib2L8O-veuag3h62VI6jNbuBmW4t-NVyhw9_8dewhK3c1SxMs01sC5039DIw7gy3FVNm4twvWJ4Y/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 2: EXPLORATION</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Monday started out a bit gloomy and cold. We began our day at <a href="https://fathercarpenter.com/">Father Carpenter Coffee Brewers</a><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">,</span> a great local cafe that had an amazing roast of coffee and a tasty avocado and poached egg toast. It was nice to finally have a slow morning all to ourselves after days of non-stop scheduling. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiT3R6Q6f6-X7e47UriakPo4MLjen5G6_onoBxvNlWmStesY2uTNiq-yI0tWPfsX_RlSG8ki1hb9tG0Neec3raDealmmKpiK-Kx5AjB-rN_ANXqMIExEVjSfM6LZfpXzYCHRw45zhFJp8/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiT3R6Q6f6-X7e47UriakPo4MLjen5G6_onoBxvNlWmStesY2uTNiq-yI0tWPfsX_RlSG8ki1hb9tG0Neec3raDealmmKpiK-Kx5AjB-rN_ANXqMIExEVjSfM6LZfpXzYCHRw45zhFJp8/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qFt5VE2dDC3oEfA6g9iEvaF94uqeEGeQbCZT1Uk4ALOAlCYbdig_JOWzZ0pu8IgQmYxEZbQ2OW5hQHi_d7K68Tz1_MjKrVB3OnU28uV1KU5oZFanRT20I0BUdCi7hguMQ2vjjhHwOrQ/s1600/IMG_0769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qFt5VE2dDC3oEfA6g9iEvaF94uqeEGeQbCZT1Uk4ALOAlCYbdig_JOWzZ0pu8IgQmYxEZbQ2OW5hQHi_d7K68Tz1_MjKrVB3OnU28uV1KU5oZFanRT20I0BUdCi7hguMQ2vjjhHwOrQ/s1600/IMG_0769.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After a very fulfilling breakfast, we headed to museum island to visit the <a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/pergamonmuseum/home.html">Pergamon Museum</a><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">,</span> which featured both Middle East and Islamic art. It was the largest museum we had been to in Germany, and definitely architecturally very impressive. Have a look for yourself:</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpmd2q5acjbkTiX8bv_mbZI_ApT9yx30EpNCDMTSRZYFO50el2qwfm1rUW4KyyDGoMRbrdV-yjFVvGrIV9WoIzwZowqg4t4DWRLrkCXOQxe66Zv5bHJgCshaESJhkPhvsL557PW-0ik4/s1600/IMG_0838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpmd2q5acjbkTiX8bv_mbZI_ApT9yx30EpNCDMTSRZYFO50el2qwfm1rUW4KyyDGoMRbrdV-yjFVvGrIV9WoIzwZowqg4t4DWRLrkCXOQxe66Zv5bHJgCshaESJhkPhvsL557PW-0ik4/s1600/IMG_0838.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZwp_ZpH3sSEA16dLFTyAmOx62rqZisI-VpvENrRe84350Os6AtTPG7q_empHw3LCoI605364UL2DHNmSQzCsJufQrPlG4zFv0xf4I3GJICytkBAlMkb7VgdvOQyPrNhpYwl4J1POPBU/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="986" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZwp_ZpH3sSEA16dLFTyAmOx62rqZisI-VpvENrRe84350Os6AtTPG7q_empHw3LCoI605364UL2DHNmSQzCsJufQrPlG4zFv0xf4I3GJICytkBAlMkb7VgdvOQyPrNhpYwl4J1POPBU/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" width="394" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujUDc1NRESGHzlHZQlc5FcaTMSeEpt_VMw7VAeaMXfjBsSx00nB4FBWmgT8eCmwiIm3eFvRtO2636iHleJGMRpsngHs0b5NDR1EItqjYNBOTctUPVBmH5ar7RvqAVSXWHEgX4rwQmiuc/s1600/IMG_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujUDc1NRESGHzlHZQlc5FcaTMSeEpt_VMw7VAeaMXfjBsSx00nB4FBWmgT8eCmwiIm3eFvRtO2636iHleJGMRpsngHs0b5NDR1EItqjYNBOTctUPVBmH5ar7RvqAVSXWHEgX4rwQmiuc/s1600/IMG_0832.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgya-1d1jEUuPu910FSM27piFQDls9_qLvuyu146CMa4y2qeP34c6JBWi8Lybz71-DIGybwpRQOyM7YymwMqtZk-pjyHcUYXQI3QWDxjnXDCjzO5ZCS-QA_JW0VGLRqW4hA15w6xH6EpnA/s1600/IMG_0828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgya-1d1jEUuPu910FSM27piFQDls9_qLvuyu146CMa4y2qeP34c6JBWi8Lybz71-DIGybwpRQOyM7YymwMqtZk-pjyHcUYXQI3QWDxjnXDCjzO5ZCS-QA_JW0VGLRqW4hA15w6xH6EpnA/s1600/IMG_0828.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIRomgJ5znYpzxiwm1nQ6MMx1d9WbfxOjQjPrV1aJn4KP5FK7DFbGeYk8KNj78bzfWoFZRKZDkKchi8xq6HVRi6LZYACLwxLdkBzN7TLbZRiWeeFRtcmNzuQzbN2wnFV3WXhM04T4zpk/s1600/IMG_0827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIRomgJ5znYpzxiwm1nQ6MMx1d9WbfxOjQjPrV1aJn4KP5FK7DFbGeYk8KNj78bzfWoFZRKZDkKchi8xq6HVRi6LZYACLwxLdkBzN7TLbZRiWeeFRtcmNzuQzbN2wnFV3WXhM04T4zpk/s1600/IMG_0827.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkI99ib-acSIY1RZufRWrhJvvD-0qSSGhERKoVvsvf4h6xjm1hBBJHvjJ0QjDxlBcRWczL5YgGYFoZGdEugzIbff4XKWS3TVjnCAA-TtLfP8jpWexEd5R_6m4KrOTzr8VDK6S5aORkaw/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1595" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkI99ib-acSIY1RZufRWrhJvvD-0qSSGhERKoVvsvf4h6xjm1hBBJHvjJ0QjDxlBcRWczL5YgGYFoZGdEugzIbff4XKWS3TVjnCAA-TtLfP8jpWexEd5R_6m4KrOTzr8VDK6S5aORkaw/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wqTUg_b7X3Me69Jh1n8qruKHoxfsUtzI_t8ikr8z9c88mu2TR9kY_am0fjLzjHW_JQ4HhdzXTU5nWMDfdR-CY5x-3EqxYV8L-Oox9UnjetB8lMqpNIIjxsug3WNgGr4TnkaXogTrDMw/s1600/IMG_0786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wqTUg_b7X3Me69Jh1n8qruKHoxfsUtzI_t8ikr8z9c88mu2TR9kY_am0fjLzjHW_JQ4HhdzXTU5nWMDfdR-CY5x-3EqxYV8L-Oox9UnjetB8lMqpNIIjxsug3WNgGr4TnkaXogTrDMw/s1600/IMG_0786.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJ55j81UYkWlVxC60MNmLtgK8g3JLvD7f1ceO4t7k7f4MSdyQF4xOrP-nzV1ABPgTQ9alZBC2Iq95HJB_gTLi9mFQyQYJEcSei5Eu11ApxBN1w-b2hqaP9GJVvNk4dxCBLwndv3_nYBI/s1600/IMG_0787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJ55j81UYkWlVxC60MNmLtgK8g3JLvD7f1ceO4t7k7f4MSdyQF4xOrP-nzV1ABPgTQ9alZBC2Iq95HJB_gTLi9mFQyQYJEcSei5Eu11ApxBN1w-b2hqaP9GJVvNk4dxCBLwndv3_nYBI/s1600/IMG_0787.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGmq1SYYUSnZjEhObEMkVZhyN7Rrfk58AYdEPpTZ9UlwdDyDgwd-05wAnkkMTVCSYTu9h-Kmt-_D5GfDVGe7l32CKhYkqebFXmjKEpM62VtU2Lt4ZCGAG2X7meK5Xb6_vLe3swqS1eHI/s1600/IMG_0497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGmq1SYYUSnZjEhObEMkVZhyN7Rrfk58AYdEPpTZ9UlwdDyDgwd-05wAnkkMTVCSYTu9h-Kmt-_D5GfDVGe7l32CKhYkqebFXmjKEpM62VtU2Lt4ZCGAG2X7meK5Xb6_vLe3swqS1eHI/s1600/IMG_0497.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KMRlQoujjGPloYY0Uujb5qHx7wZe1Bp5nRM13oQyZOTTEEzhlFVyCjk26m3T8SyJVY0Ku9HsHc8Ub-LEQOWIjMq2cei3RQAXVd0T9gVbfDZk_mtf6fCweuIJbGQykGR7YN1JrRrbTdQ/s1600/IMG_0790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KMRlQoujjGPloYY0Uujb5qHx7wZe1Bp5nRM13oQyZOTTEEzhlFVyCjk26m3T8SyJVY0Ku9HsHc8Ub-LEQOWIjMq2cei3RQAXVd0T9gVbfDZk_mtf6fCweuIJbGQykGR7YN1JrRrbTdQ/s1600/IMG_0790.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiD93jO64tf5voCMa-seYev2ZgcGKDC38kB2hm_v3LMCUncpbYJSMLFSfxSeHP22_v40fN2DNAmIhXrC6mdKuWrKda3Uv6D-B3VS7JGmMQGFDRpF7G61-CJPPN1LsDUbT5DXNaWRPYsPc/s1600/IMG_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiD93jO64tf5voCMa-seYev2ZgcGKDC38kB2hm_v3LMCUncpbYJSMLFSfxSeHP22_v40fN2DNAmIhXrC6mdKuWrKda3Uv6D-B3VS7JGmMQGFDRpF7G61-CJPPN1LsDUbT5DXNaWRPYsPc/s1600/IMG_0501.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Once we wrapped up our time at the Pergamon, we decided to head over to the <a href="https://www.german-way.com/travel-and-tourism/germany-for-tourists/city-guides-germany/berlin-and-potsdam/the-reichstag-in-berlin/">Reichstag</a> dome to check things out. To our disappointment, there were no more reservations for the day and a lot of the streets were being closed off for the German unity celebrations. Not to mention, it started pouring rain which easily cut our day short. We did the next best thing...</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
EAT.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Shortly after 5pm, we found ourselves at a highly recommended place, <a href="http://umami-restaurant.de/">Umami</a>, thanks to a huge recommendation from our intern, Dino. Sarah ordered the curry chicken bowl, while I ordered the ever so popular, Bao Burger. We also ordered a Vietnamese papaya salad to share which was also equally delicious. It was nice being able to communicate to the host in my native language. I think the rain in Berlin was probably the best thing that could have happened to us that day. We had an incredible hot meal at Umami and I had an amazing hot tea to warm my insides. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AlHY1F9_wYjJ5lAgs59tnKJw8KS25XZS7ckjC8L-KNbwbIWn9BR9Y0IH75ByISTv9euojZkLcoZamYMT6Pj-wkX8UDfdH1orZqhWWdn7_pZsT1m3lbEciQNIZ2WXxZYD7WwsydzHwDw/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AlHY1F9_wYjJ5lAgs59tnKJw8KS25XZS7ckjC8L-KNbwbIWn9BR9Y0IH75ByISTv9euojZkLcoZamYMT6Pj-wkX8UDfdH1orZqhWWdn7_pZsT1m3lbEciQNIZ2WXxZYD7WwsydzHwDw/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Day two in Berlin went by quite quickly. We eventually made it back home to our hostel for a little bit of R&R before heading to <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/das-hotel-berlin-4">Das Hotel Bar</a> for a relaxing evening of cards and whiskey. Sarah taught me how to play rummy, which was a lot of fun. We ended up also battling it out over a game of speed before calling it a night.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 3: ONE LAST HURRAH</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
On our last day in Berlin, we decided to visit a few more museums before wrapping up our journey. First thing on the itinerary: the <a href="https://www.jmberlin.de/en">Jewish Museum</a>. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sZzCHbAA5reEzYw8MUyCEQGDas0FPFmtpGVWB4YquYMk30NDd7mb0z0iWFjI7cPmEJVXZlc7JMmt5eNtzWo_ug9uUN6OuxaUXIqtkRVkQrqHSsIEhQoc6rh74XL8ShHXrlPmOJyQoeM/s1600/IMG_0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sZzCHbAA5reEzYw8MUyCEQGDas0FPFmtpGVWB4YquYMk30NDd7mb0z0iWFjI7cPmEJVXZlc7JMmt5eNtzWo_ug9uUN6OuxaUXIqtkRVkQrqHSsIEhQoc6rh74XL8ShHXrlPmOJyQoeM/s1600/IMG_0693.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vYIKPyNJVDHIDVRj-l-9Sv6TN7_ijeqSlkOLxnhax7Te4TK3_lrq9j0FKRT2QPykB3zC6TaBNFJoa3Lq8LCrFQP3AflQbhk-mOtWsAJ6x3nWjgl2QK-bg6GiHSOq6q0ZuO7hc7F63UE/s1600/IMG_0595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vYIKPyNJVDHIDVRj-l-9Sv6TN7_ijeqSlkOLxnhax7Te4TK3_lrq9j0FKRT2QPykB3zC6TaBNFJoa3Lq8LCrFQP3AflQbhk-mOtWsAJ6x3nWjgl2QK-bg6GiHSOq6q0ZuO7hc7F63UE/s1600/IMG_0595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAP32YDcd_SdPHK5WsVQjFcZ3PpKM4wn6yVRzSi6Y42nKhU9kUS6Yf4-PwEOI0QwANi8Y0Czs5xzKwnufnfKMsn69VIClRgqr99gJXTWbw56MJ6iHVHTngebYFotsrHGJcg0HtjX50HA/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1080" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAP32YDcd_SdPHK5WsVQjFcZ3PpKM4wn6yVRzSi6Y42nKhU9kUS6Yf4-PwEOI0QwANi8Y0Czs5xzKwnufnfKMsn69VIClRgqr99gJXTWbw56MJ6iHVHTngebYFotsrHGJcg0HtjX50HA/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0U4UtNjKTnsLviGYSDi1GN2gee9bwlT4H-f-ODbTojq78TNxIeZP6LAgkCCDmE1xrlCTPPUeTBMYLGtckjiCXGQ6LE5knRqPbbUKiCNeFKpXMCrZcE88erpTgGfQ7kjgpz8Kyoq_5h0o/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0U4UtNjKTnsLviGYSDi1GN2gee9bwlT4H-f-ODbTojq78TNxIeZP6LAgkCCDmE1xrlCTPPUeTBMYLGtckjiCXGQ6LE5knRqPbbUKiCNeFKpXMCrZcE88erpTgGfQ7kjgpz8Kyoq_5h0o/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpJnAwF0ue1X4KIXftYd6RKBrFqNCqXLAV80Q_HGvuLfoUXmKK0MrIywKw7WiKvfdxYwmOArP4NPy8YiaeXrtdTvUY-n1vGc-sPluFszz1LHo9o5TpRROfZgptHd-0vZo5gTM4RsEl6s/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpJnAwF0ue1X4KIXftYd6RKBrFqNCqXLAV80Q_HGvuLfoUXmKK0MrIywKw7WiKvfdxYwmOArP4NPy8YiaeXrtdTvUY-n1vGc-sPluFszz1LHo9o5TpRROfZgptHd-0vZo5gTM4RsEl6s/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Wow. One of the most memorable experiences I had in Germany. It was both architecturally impressive and educational. They did an incredible job of tying in history with interactive art installations to help visitors understand the impact of the Holocaust. From a room full of steel faces to a dark room with a faint sight of outside light, this museum was an unforgettable experience.There was also a very interesting special exhibit upstairs about Christianity, Judaism, and Muslim religions and the impact that religion has on our world. I would highly recommend that you add this to your list if you're planning on visiting Berlin.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Next up: The <a href="http://www.eastsidegallery-berlin.com/">East Side Gallery</a>. This artful strip of Berlin is home to the remaining remnants of the Berlin Wall. I can't begin to describe how surreal it felt to witness and touch the Berlin Wall. The powerful art along the wall conveyed themes of struggle, hope, and freedom. It was another very powerful visit that I enjoyed very much.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KLikCIXUiOB-jDcqiXapCm5-KrvNYnIOQZSpJTez42Fps6RKXYgH0ppUYe5a6NSDzglVszo0YgA_wLKJvN-qshDOL30OWzyEOqV7McicGJfoJvljnKgg3Lurok7F_cuAc6GlBc7KYbk/s1600/IMG_0708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KLikCIXUiOB-jDcqiXapCm5-KrvNYnIOQZSpJTez42Fps6RKXYgH0ppUYe5a6NSDzglVszo0YgA_wLKJvN-qshDOL30OWzyEOqV7McicGJfoJvljnKgg3Lurok7F_cuAc6GlBc7KYbk/s1600/IMG_0708.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvXaDl36l9ZfQXefmogTcI4WW_GVsdCF2NR24ld7iHu6qvlmZEP7PqWWG6S4f1Y2Tgo8YJ-nVdXAB9lRvJvt3Z2zPmQnjX73WI5lt2IgGiafG7VpT8AeSi7O7BiKdqeUFUmo29smyb5g/s1600/IMG_0707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1120" data-original-width="1532" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvXaDl36l9ZfQXefmogTcI4WW_GVsdCF2NR24ld7iHu6qvlmZEP7PqWWG6S4f1Y2Tgo8YJ-nVdXAB9lRvJvt3Z2zPmQnjX73WI5lt2IgGiafG7VpT8AeSi7O7BiKdqeUFUmo29smyb5g/s1600/IMG_0707.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhqKnNWCFCyMpa7Dyeu4mTzDN_OErbLS9KqhvRX2gxBkZrMqqPvLAM9NYwgOx5VFuvVOU-cNv6N0E98hj7Wd1F0KtJdDP1jUwv7SpvVkLHi2YCiuExPZ9xsmSeSiXNml950bCasHBalQ/s1600/63D5C19D-F532-4C13-8493-59FB1D24FE09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhqKnNWCFCyMpa7Dyeu4mTzDN_OErbLS9KqhvRX2gxBkZrMqqPvLAM9NYwgOx5VFuvVOU-cNv6N0E98hj7Wd1F0KtJdDP1jUwv7SpvVkLHi2YCiuExPZ9xsmSeSiXNml950bCasHBalQ/s1600/63D5C19D-F532-4C13-8493-59FB1D24FE09.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Of course, all of this travel caused us to develop quite an appetite, so we decided to head over to <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/b%C3%A4ckerei-und-konditorei-balzer-berlin?osq=strudel">Bäckerei und Konditorei Balzer</a> for some tasty plum and apple strudels. The verdict: I was a huge fan of the plum strudel while Sarah preferred a more traditional apple strudel. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
On the last leg of our museum journey, we decided to hit up the much anticipated <a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/alte-nationalgalerie/home.html">Alte Nationalgalerie</a>, a very popular 19th Century art museum in Berlin. It was a large and beautiful art gallery, which featured 1500 sculptures and 1800 paintings. While we both enjoyed looking at the masterpieces, I do feel that both Sarah and I were pretty exhausted by the time we got to the art gallery. This probably caused us to have a more accelerated experience of the museum to be able to get through the entire collection. I think had we gone to the museum much earlier in the day, we probably would have had more energy and a longer attention span to enjoy everything a lot more.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SvoLvZcaEL1zJpCTXEWOUS5_zc3MGKDKYGdK7TTTdaV4cruaLEWR7AbZQXC9anQ4UtTjwlJsOv6FC8ta8g_d4Qxd9X4BIVFMFsmW8a8eAcYVZ2udpmeTdIYWwokrOf3P2qbso3nn9vk/s1600/IMG_0782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SvoLvZcaEL1zJpCTXEWOUS5_zc3MGKDKYGdK7TTTdaV4cruaLEWR7AbZQXC9anQ4UtTjwlJsOv6FC8ta8g_d4Qxd9X4BIVFMFsmW8a8eAcYVZ2udpmeTdIYWwokrOf3P2qbso3nn9vk/s1600/IMG_0782.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQROxzuCGtLT7Q4_cqmEV1jjJDegiNRb7upqJZDrytoyGi7_jlSgfvEke2nUhbg8JZNTmfV3x8F4paNNE60nQZs72G6MUHFf99pj1wZI4CuDKSH0eJJkAPKsWNSZNtgmFNecF4OAqu-gE/s1600/IMG_0803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQROxzuCGtLT7Q4_cqmEV1jjJDegiNRb7upqJZDrytoyGi7_jlSgfvEke2nUhbg8JZNTmfV3x8F4paNNE60nQZs72G6MUHFf99pj1wZI4CuDKSH0eJJkAPKsWNSZNtgmFNecF4OAqu-gE/s1600/IMG_0803.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrnOX9Ym5uePALoL1vVfhx6I2UQXp8x-RJ5inJzVfNtah_Ma6mxIANzLrhxlAOBnfH9k2zqmZuraWS0KvXHjpF0_GKGGEGpAcgwoxZHhluEzez4HMRy5LctLma6Pm-fnx1BMq86ytluI/s1600/IMG_0689+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1195" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrnOX9Ym5uePALoL1vVfhx6I2UQXp8x-RJ5inJzVfNtah_Ma6mxIANzLrhxlAOBnfH9k2zqmZuraWS0KvXHjpF0_GKGGEGpAcgwoxZHhluEzez4HMRy5LctLma6Pm-fnx1BMq86ytluI/s1600/IMG_0689+2.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxgYfAr0kos_vcWcYTDKQrZpl0gozjBuQo9fmY3SKQkMY-Y5IrBmEHskRN3xGmiso8Mk3jEshTxytdX_ZjlGXFPX47JjvpBvcDditvr3XbCtbKiwrhXOirl9LUAKPZYvFOH8YHhiEYYxc/s1600/IMG_0684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxgYfAr0kos_vcWcYTDKQrZpl0gozjBuQo9fmY3SKQkMY-Y5IrBmEHskRN3xGmiso8Mk3jEshTxytdX_ZjlGXFPX47JjvpBvcDditvr3XbCtbKiwrhXOirl9LUAKPZYvFOH8YHhiEYYxc/s1600/IMG_0684.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
As you could probably tell by now, we were pretty exhausted by traveling in entire week on a packed schedule and little sleep. As a reward to ourselves, we decided to <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/mustafas-gem%C3%BCse-kebap-berlin-3">Mustafas Gemüse Kebap</a>, the most MAGNIFICENT food in Berlin. It was probably the cheapest meal we ate, but the most delicious. It was a little food stand located near our hostel in the neighborhood of Kreuzberg. The line wasn't too bad either. We came around 2:30pm and the line was maybe about 15 minutes long. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dNGWlZNGZGAn59gF3_t5WKc8Fx-iOUSJsblcOFmYIVyuP1cYN66zjHCV47w3sKklxTOq6fM5fU2AhFdr1zLplNMhJ-UzhgHKzzqyhe73FtJNLs-KwR9SkFrLOHoYQ3E5EWgWaOB8tNo/s1600/IMG_0699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dNGWlZNGZGAn59gF3_t5WKc8Fx-iOUSJsblcOFmYIVyuP1cYN66zjHCV47w3sKklxTOq6fM5fU2AhFdr1zLplNMhJ-UzhgHKzzqyhe73FtJNLs-KwR9SkFrLOHoYQ3E5EWgWaOB8tNo/s1600/IMG_0699.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
There was only three items on the menu which made ordering super easy for an indecisive person like me. Both Sarah and I each got the chicken kebap, and we finished the entire meal. The flat bread was nicely toasted, with a crispy outer layer and a nice soft inner layer. There was a great balance of carbs, veggies, and protein. Of course, they threw on what looked like potato wedges into the kebap, which to be be honest, I didn't mind at all. I was mentally at the end of my trip and pretty much had a YOLO (you only live once) mentality. I still think about this sinfully delicious piece of goodness to this very day...take me back to Berlin!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After finishing our kebaps under an awning of a hostel in the midst of a light drizzle, we made our way back to our hostel where we relaxed until it was time to head out to the airport. As always, our host, Catherine, treated us with such kindness and hospitality. She even brought us Farmers Market grapes while we waited for our departure time. I will say that leaving Berlin was quite sad. It was such a whirlwind of an experience, and I would definitely like to come back and experience it more fully someday.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
We headed to the Berlin Tegel airport that evening where we boarded our flight back to Munich to spend the night before our flight back home to Los Angeles. At last, our journey came to an end. What an unforgettable experience. Germany, you were so good to us! We hope to come back some day. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
There you have it, our entire eight day journey to Germany and Austria. I hope you enjoyed this blog series, and will check out some of these places if you decide to go visit! Let me know if you have any questions or future travel recommendations via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. Thanks for joining me on this incredible journey.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Until next time,</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-51175696427421050732018-10-09T22:33:00.000-07:002018-10-09T22:52:47.381-07:00Salzburg<div>
Next stop: Austria!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We woke up early Saturday morning morning to board a train to Salzburg, Austria. Famously known as the setting of one of the most famous movies in the world, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Sound of Music,</span> Salzburg's lush green hills and mountains sits just an hour southeast of Munich, Germany.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaFBSnDg6vb4TOwWFRS-kHwA4XzfF515MRydks5bNqgY7FVOiRQFvrUK7josxrqIB2Xy7j8DL4OkGSvrjHySqWA-_dpmtCYJh23Ksyu9YP1V2eKG8b5hzxs4uyP6EM89EtLOa7JkBP-c/s1600/IMG_0208+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaFBSnDg6vb4TOwWFRS-kHwA4XzfF515MRydks5bNqgY7FVOiRQFvrUK7josxrqIB2Xy7j8DL4OkGSvrjHySqWA-_dpmtCYJh23Ksyu9YP1V2eKG8b5hzxs4uyP6EM89EtLOa7JkBP-c/s1600/IMG_0208+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We arrived at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof Train Station shortly after 11am. The weather was sunny and mild, and the streets were quiet for a Saturday morning. I think we lucked out big time with the weather that day. It was actually scheduled to rain according to weather predictions.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First stop on our itinerary: lunch! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After a long day of singing and dancing at Oktoberfest, we knew we needed to recover our energy somehow. Pasta was a relatively easy and obvious choice for us, which led us to Ristorante Pasta e Vino, an authentic Italian restaurant situated with in the quiet city. </div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOmprtsDvqTp-X3wLB038l74NvpkFVFx6axVfH4h5hVarvxAj1feVmJy-RuuGDZ4iaY80mC3_h2q6JQNdabdoRf8POFAR9vUB3GnJx9mG6IRxmeJeVZlg9MasyfPxfsM6TGa4I1At0wA/s1600/IMG_0724+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOmprtsDvqTp-X3wLB038l74NvpkFVFx6axVfH4h5hVarvxAj1feVmJy-RuuGDZ4iaY80mC3_h2q6JQNdabdoRf8POFAR9vUB3GnJx9mG6IRxmeJeVZlg9MasyfPxfsM6TGa4I1At0wA/s1600/IMG_0724+3.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Since the menu changes daily according to whatever is in season at the market on any given day, there was no menu. Sarah ordered a delicious, creamy mushroom pasta, while I ordered the white wine tuna pasta dish. One bite of my dish, and all my memories of Italy from this past spring flooded back. The pasta dish was fresh, simple, and unpretentious. The lightly seasoned white wine sauce on the handmade noodles, coupled with the thick slices of tuna, and small portions of sautéed veggies. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shortly after lunch, we headed over to the Mirabell Gardens to meet up for <i><a href="https://www.panoramatours.com/en/salzburg/tour/original-sound-of-music-tour-tour-1a-28/?affiliate=abbdbf103886e498d2b6b3620c700904">The Sound of Music Tour</a></i>. </div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEeKs0QAP-gHoWQ8WCHJr2rk5NLROXc3MRHkIjh3nC-2gsdFkLzvedmxXeTqQMDG_O9YWySZzBsylIRkMI__UfH_6RIbI29BkfcWIiinjxD1FU9CVE4WF6_GyQ2ai6RN28rar08ouIAU/s1600/IMG_0824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEeKs0QAP-gHoWQ8WCHJr2rk5NLROXc3MRHkIjh3nC-2gsdFkLzvedmxXeTqQMDG_O9YWySZzBsylIRkMI__UfH_6RIbI29BkfcWIiinjxD1FU9CVE4WF6_GyQ2ai6RN28rar08ouIAU/s1600/IMG_0824.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbXppM7IrN4FXM9Z6unXhmSnLc20cnXZ4anKenqS-S7GHxUgjDhGAsP_A4Na9YoDLBZC7h1sIJubhOUrWGXpAK03M7vpH3G7uLmCIc0uqAqi3qXmu0ZGFi9srEzUF8_GrYYxIne1FocU/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbXppM7IrN4FXM9Z6unXhmSnLc20cnXZ4anKenqS-S7GHxUgjDhGAsP_A4Na9YoDLBZC7h1sIJubhOUrWGXpAK03M7vpH3G7uLmCIc0uqAqi3qXmu0ZGFi9srEzUF8_GrYYxIne1FocU/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcHR-HwcWelK9n-rVGs9kwj7pjc5GG2lJf8dTf8HkeALXmeDQc4LTs355_gg1YVNc-pkuJ6BqHxjnS45uM46maVlh9A4gCkLWWEvdsftpXO5GRR1A1dEcl9Dli1kI-hjbf3kI5ByQYAo/s1600/IMG_0754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcHR-HwcWelK9n-rVGs9kwj7pjc5GG2lJf8dTf8HkeALXmeDQc4LTs355_gg1YVNc-pkuJ6BqHxjnS45uM46maVlh9A4gCkLWWEvdsftpXO5GRR1A1dEcl9Dli1kI-hjbf3kI5ByQYAo/s1600/IMG_0754.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoxwe9ohZGps94Aj2o8SIQ3R_0iU5tdaMRcvFUSmmVkNMFuJelxyRcOyyuA6qZgQhT8E4ZqPHuE0BUy3rCi_lA-VyLFeqfzI9JEmKKqhdwt2TC_coFl5F8gwBxzATVHRL4N08bghBUc0/s1600/IMG_0752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoxwe9ohZGps94Aj2o8SIQ3R_0iU5tdaMRcvFUSmmVkNMFuJelxyRcOyyuA6qZgQhT8E4ZqPHuE0BUy3rCi_lA-VyLFeqfzI9JEmKKqhdwt2TC_coFl5F8gwBxzATVHRL4N08bghBUc0/s1600/IMG_0752.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXRd7z7pF8_RLctB_A9zdDS4L4Nn0I3YF4QjhS2E5z6N832zGQc7Fcph0Cp8AsLwjAbdXoKtWNVi2-oDN-_H37RnS_FlEqUqBL5fVO0GPW3DTzPoj45Rb-4xpoEqGm1bQG8vwu6hFb78/s1600/IMG_0822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXRd7z7pF8_RLctB_A9zdDS4L4Nn0I3YF4QjhS2E5z6N832zGQc7Fcph0Cp8AsLwjAbdXoKtWNVi2-oDN-_H37RnS_FlEqUqBL5fVO0GPW3DTzPoj45Rb-4xpoEqGm1bQG8vwu6hFb78/s1600/IMG_0822.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Funny story...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We actually missed our tour bus across the street by five minutes all due to the delay or the bathroom attendant at the Mirabell Gardens. We literally ran across the street as the bus was pulling away. Sarah managed to track down a tour attendant who graciously said that we "weren't late" and to just wait. We're convinced he hailed the bus driver to pull back around the block, because they actually came back for us. Haha GOD BLESS. Thank you <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia15rw" href="https://www.panoramatours.com/en/salzburg/tour/original-sound-of-music-tour-tour-1a-28/?affiliate=abbdbf103886e498d2b6b3620c700904">Panorama Tours</a></span>!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At a quarter past 2pm, we were well on our way. Our tour guide was both charming and had a great sense of humor. He broke the ice with a couple of jokes, and passed around the Lonely Goat stuffed animal for "selfie opportunities". </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A couple of key movie locations that we visited were:</div>
<ul class="font_8">
<li>Mirabell Gardens and the Pegasus Fountain (the dance scene with Maria and the children)</li>
<li>Schloss Leopoldskron (in the film, the house where the family lived)</li>
<li>Hellbrunn palace (singing scenes)</li>
<li>Nonnberg Convent (where the young Maria was a novice)</li>
<li>St. Gilgen / Wolfgangsee (opening scene of the movie)</li>
<li>Mondsee Basilica (wedding scene)</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJJOnoEpztmYyRxbzhITY_Ye0p_6ORivxMHPU9SrrjRd5W4NBkVEcxUVtBfwpRvVbW9AB5lfZRjlFBuMbcKIwXgEG3mQALMSoh3e8tFUEsSueuFqaXCyb8CfojULF-6_aLCvbLSB_AiU/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJJOnoEpztmYyRxbzhITY_Ye0p_6ORivxMHPU9SrrjRd5W4NBkVEcxUVtBfwpRvVbW9AB5lfZRjlFBuMbcKIwXgEG3mQALMSoh3e8tFUEsSueuFqaXCyb8CfojULF-6_aLCvbLSB_AiU/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-Lod57x5fCztcqHWOtNMOqwDqcHWs3jFgoVpldR-4d_g0w1t4VQ_56SP9KI13kOGaG0EOtzSclZQiNHHazpX1GPLKuSHOl7b_Rqdo1KenIaIwHmiLwJc735ZGkmurwD21KOeJuS_6nE/s1600/IMG_0743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-Lod57x5fCztcqHWOtNMOqwDqcHWs3jFgoVpldR-4d_g0w1t4VQ_56SP9KI13kOGaG0EOtzSclZQiNHHazpX1GPLKuSHOl7b_Rqdo1KenIaIwHmiLwJc735ZGkmurwD21KOeJuS_6nE/s1600/IMG_0743.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIIUAVojcpJkhe-m6KlvxUPMx7FYnDV4r1EBoNJb6Es9sPBt8zkg1AMT3bfJjdG4Ghey3H4BeN9TTriwZD-8SwNnH_OuXfoDsf3K-Dd4WJ_Nk0xQDG3tbdCC_CfbGImAbwTr4mKhoeSo/s1600/IMG_0748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixIIUAVojcpJkhe-m6KlvxUPMx7FYnDV4r1EBoNJb6Es9sPBt8zkg1AMT3bfJjdG4Ghey3H4BeN9TTriwZD-8SwNnH_OuXfoDsf3K-Dd4WJ_Nk0xQDG3tbdCC_CfbGImAbwTr4mKhoeSo/s1600/IMG_0748.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGBOyaKizdxN7TQD1FPh-99ctfZohb13zgLld6PCDp7X2asi7c3qttba3hJ1-heA-Xupj5ETvnPqTpHy58OqOftxrFnENbwKs9_FsnU67EBfwvNClTDie6i1igDPaWp-IA5Q7WIFg6BA/s1600/IMG_0821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGBOyaKizdxN7TQD1FPh-99ctfZohb13zgLld6PCDp7X2asi7c3qttba3hJ1-heA-Xupj5ETvnPqTpHy58OqOftxrFnENbwKs9_FsnU67EBfwvNClTDie6i1igDPaWp-IA5Q7WIFg6BA/s1600/IMG_0821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qA3-j0WKpB4_NF40hYLlTKSI-oigaWSb48c6zH0X5szF_vW4gHeg3akYtVdL3IZLIvSO62ct5QeD3MZQeOrjrtzpBOBCZWoRuzBnaxTYbWEOWJNClVFpZjUqgkkfqXahUyLUrANTTV8/s1600/IMG_0819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qA3-j0WKpB4_NF40hYLlTKSI-oigaWSb48c6zH0X5szF_vW4gHeg3akYtVdL3IZLIvSO62ct5QeD3MZQeOrjrtzpBOBCZWoRuzBnaxTYbWEOWJNClVFpZjUqgkkfqXahUyLUrANTTV8/s1600/IMG_0819.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuTZKkWXcDKEnDFzPpSkK04NGpZqbjmjRaTUkjMlYC2qc9NHJ1KcX_txuZZOZuyceW0UtLBzp3rX0q6urCPBdgZxU0MVmpUO-_Ym8Qt23yuFm_62Is4fc0VWwKoyOqBMyrqU4k2-Sykg/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuTZKkWXcDKEnDFzPpSkK04NGpZqbjmjRaTUkjMlYC2qc9NHJ1KcX_txuZZOZuyceW0UtLBzp3rX0q6urCPBdgZxU0MVmpUO-_Ym8Qt23yuFm_62Is4fc0VWwKoyOqBMyrqU4k2-Sykg/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We also took a few off-beaten path stops along the way to embrace the beauty of Austria, witness the oldest fortress in Europe, and get a small glimpse of the Alps. Those extra stops were actually my favorite parts of the tour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB4KbjztB710epjsZXCbbG81bXC25M03i_LXxOmaJ-asI4ZWA7SmGenhIG2jrklaHTw8tLyLY26iHMSCLSCeLeQ-V9G5CK8Lcv4eURau8VQ9IMeXhNu5fksPyLKROM3OkSnxKHlf31WM/s1600/IMG_0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB4KbjztB710epjsZXCbbG81bXC25M03i_LXxOmaJ-asI4ZWA7SmGenhIG2jrklaHTw8tLyLY26iHMSCLSCeLeQ-V9G5CK8Lcv4eURau8VQ9IMeXhNu5fksPyLKROM3OkSnxKHlf31WM/s1600/IMG_0274.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWmp5jyjZvhiig25x8xv5Ov21Xsl1h0-vM8nVbQZcRCTCVU9PIyk-steUvpyukscTSzTUTvHrKlRTCGGdsLHoKw3WnmJoaq68jJFe7IFBa9KXecBL0AEncKe45WMPXYXwAdUP_nDgl98/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWmp5jyjZvhiig25x8xv5Ov21Xsl1h0-vM8nVbQZcRCTCVU9PIyk-steUvpyukscTSzTUTvHrKlRTCGGdsLHoKw3WnmJoaq68jJFe7IFBa9KXecBL0AEncKe45WMPXYXwAdUP_nDgl98/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnRG2z6hiBe76hfcbZd5L6J2kphml1-4Vk54dE9-cSAlLolC0mgGPFwQYBvjHy-0pXss0J67lYuzOP9kufWSJinlEZ7vYZLwUGZQCUB_NDtwqZBI1zl4q29NEO93RMrgXM7qUoIUNaSo/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnRG2z6hiBe76hfcbZd5L6J2kphml1-4Vk54dE9-cSAlLolC0mgGPFwQYBvjHy-0pXss0J67lYuzOP9kufWSJinlEZ7vYZLwUGZQCUB_NDtwqZBI1zl4q29NEO93RMrgXM7qUoIUNaSo/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MogEGX7K8i4NhJMnFcFRGD0lH4WyMu-2hJ5zCBvvzcANfBPpzkLSw1vJPTmfvEM6NO53XxxHq8YYi2sQUpaDZUgf_jX0KmqtvO6plSj5gNIjPQaAHtj-QWwt3PL6OqmCcoIy2dZ5ipE/s1600/IMG_0218+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="1585" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MogEGX7K8i4NhJMnFcFRGD0lH4WyMu-2hJ5zCBvvzcANfBPpzkLSw1vJPTmfvEM6NO53XxxHq8YYi2sQUpaDZUgf_jX0KmqtvO6plSj5gNIjPQaAHtj-QWwt3PL6OqmCcoIy2dZ5ipE/s1600/IMG_0218+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5icBICpsW0Vhhf_iE07j46NZCYZWZwHyFtZZEDrwqh6DLduFvQMV251met-eSI9D0A_JwUIKO7vffXmnp9XGPLOydNt4aZK-b6TUljuDiag8zNpRehfRGOcrDdpzFt8g7FpuGAIHfx0/s1600/IMG_0815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5icBICpsW0Vhhf_iE07j46NZCYZWZwHyFtZZEDrwqh6DLduFvQMV251met-eSI9D0A_JwUIKO7vffXmnp9XGPLOydNt4aZK-b6TUljuDiag8zNpRehfRGOcrDdpzFt8g7FpuGAIHfx0/s1600/IMG_0815.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyXGOJvRe9R_MqGSOC1cogSBJAX_GTF8e6qeIwH1griWWgXvfTuLhS68CbpRaQrq3WQNziTma5df-9gOoQ-28Epp-GOoSoTChovG1NvJ7lei1po54XZYheXJr8NDZWiyR3YpV7jPFtXQ/s1600/IMG_0740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyXGOJvRe9R_MqGSOC1cogSBJAX_GTF8e6qeIwH1griWWgXvfTuLhS68CbpRaQrq3WQNziTma5df-9gOoQ-28Epp-GOoSoTChovG1NvJ7lei1po54XZYheXJr8NDZWiyR3YpV7jPFtXQ/s1600/IMG_0740.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIV_VroBsTvzf2iiyd4jLM_q-RsOCaePJdO_9kCvzcwWVPWoryPmF7qr-fvI-q2pduEOLjeL5A0_YL-QOu0NZylFtSP_rImag3ind3n5UtIogwG5EuH5AzHwWjvXlpQ2NRDYil2gsqhCw/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIV_VroBsTvzf2iiyd4jLM_q-RsOCaePJdO_9kCvzcwWVPWoryPmF7qr-fvI-q2pduEOLjeL5A0_YL-QOu0NZylFtSP_rImag3ind3n5UtIogwG5EuH5AzHwWjvXlpQ2NRDYil2gsqhCw/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJR3IqK0EmYXqN7-SZ86Wiq7oBpWvz0jYJV6-LuNYQVqUzr9CufxIeeJCtwjirSCoITEcS2MGrKp1aBg0vLGP58Xo7OxKOPD74xuuMuSdpjsYu3S0JeVS2ILbt58RtYEPak3mfdC_fch8/s1600/IMG_0737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJR3IqK0EmYXqN7-SZ86Wiq7oBpWvz0jYJV6-LuNYQVqUzr9CufxIeeJCtwjirSCoITEcS2MGrKp1aBg0vLGP58Xo7OxKOPD74xuuMuSdpjsYu3S0JeVS2ILbt58RtYEPak3mfdC_fch8/s1600/IMG_0737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
As that was our first and only guided tour while we were in Europe, we did fell a little bit rushed getting in and out of the bus between photo opportunities. If I had another opportunity to visit Salzburg, I'd definitely want to rent a place and just really enjoy the scenic beauty at a slower pace. Austria is definitely one of the top countries on my list to revisit someday. It was definitely love at first sight. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After a lovely four hour tour of the city, a couple of sing along opportunities, and a nap or two on the bus, we wrapped up our tour and our day trip to Salzburg, Austria. After a quick dinner stop, we were back on our way to Munich for the night. It was a magical day filled with lots of breathtaking sights that neither Sarah or I will forget. We'll be back!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_d5TAitwJNij1gV42kJjZCLQDLIcBvy4ELzf6SjFzkcpRQtijoe9N_Bvla8uDv0mTpnccJTBXMyW7z8rcXmjOWdGEi2dxyGefIlSIU_SOXM4iMg93whGoOdRNxflxy6mV2lUXGWA8pI/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_d5TAitwJNij1gV42kJjZCLQDLIcBvy4ELzf6SjFzkcpRQtijoe9N_Bvla8uDv0mTpnccJTBXMyW7z8rcXmjOWdGEi2dxyGefIlSIU_SOXM4iMg93whGoOdRNxflxy6mV2lUXGWA8pI/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLu8rE730-fiRUfNUNATvDhBXfoolYyW2omTOkOLsgWIbvgXqKtMyuduGPA333ClDNgd313KW0Tsh3dGcQAh8WlDmt8DnjosKGZCD358DVHI11JLmjN6BqvStiN56k8cv0jIFl_eMW8j4/s1600/IMG_0734+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLu8rE730-fiRUfNUNATvDhBXfoolYyW2omTOkOLsgWIbvgXqKtMyuduGPA333ClDNgd313KW0Tsh3dGcQAh8WlDmt8DnjosKGZCD358DVHI11JLmjN6BqvStiN56k8cv0jIFl_eMW8j4/s1600/IMG_0734+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoSgNIBTMRv9UdSGhUsvJpCRERed694ibVFoWBi3Z_k6ViM76HP3ua2P_WrFI27k2OUhRqsDFYy0EDIxzfES_rma3ijfRu1TpgtYu0Zqd7TGdgtzvhRp7W1t3seVUufFHyA_URBeL-q0/s1600/IMG_0757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoSgNIBTMRv9UdSGhUsvJpCRERed694ibVFoWBi3Z_k6ViM76HP3ua2P_WrFI27k2OUhRqsDFYy0EDIxzfES_rma3ijfRu1TpgtYu0Zqd7TGdgtzvhRp7W1t3seVUufFHyA_URBeL-q0/s1600/IMG_0757.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOHV2BpDIccLn-kD8FdMcZNirVUZdKCUCsIWrjka587MZYQ5DAANjHz1TM1zYCFWpFVw71nhYjQVOlqmEpPJe1Co1VKIkPzZ2-SIVX4177Isf3iz2gZPZJ0O-ylGvoENX6dLKJP1yQa4/s1600/IMG_0760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOHV2BpDIccLn-kD8FdMcZNirVUZdKCUCsIWrjka587MZYQ5DAANjHz1TM1zYCFWpFVw71nhYjQVOlqmEpPJe1Co1VKIkPzZ2-SIVX4177Isf3iz2gZPZJ0O-ylGvoENX6dLKJP1yQa4/s1600/IMG_0760.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8H4aX9YynN8_ZMEp3cSUECdbMC_LGAlpVZH_8eiELsprHWiganFXmPufuxwoY5uRtQFYfCqoD5KnNdqaqSzyWySk7Pg_KhRlqq5w2N7WyDcc5i4X5uFzXwWOG7YEkWl0WJbK1oDJQh8/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8H4aX9YynN8_ZMEp3cSUECdbMC_LGAlpVZH_8eiELsprHWiganFXmPufuxwoY5uRtQFYfCqoD5KnNdqaqSzyWySk7Pg_KhRlqq5w2N7WyDcc5i4X5uFzXwWOG7YEkWl0WJbK1oDJQh8/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVTlVvKvUOyssvFyp-LfTBwfSwc1juLsLSOgiOJU5QE2opvIL0ohklpiwGkkGW9ob_BexJqXfAXzo6nbsVZewAk_rASduKRtq9g9X9ugOL3f-nrd40j8oZ9sUS1SL3gmtZbn0cKpNx8Y/s1600/IMG_0762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisVTlVvKvUOyssvFyp-LfTBwfSwc1juLsLSOgiOJU5QE2opvIL0ohklpiwGkkGW9ob_BexJqXfAXzo6nbsVZewAk_rASduKRtq9g9X9ugOL3f-nrd40j8oZ9sUS1SL3gmtZbn0cKpNx8Y/s1600/IMG_0762.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9SdXd-lwJjDmVZRR-BPdTeNrf0-Jm9SAk-La71feQS-Dw1hLbcqsV9U8FNSaTe1f_d9qar-cqaxUVwqyZdlib1CbMvMPEnhfDhUWh4Lr70hbf988eH3WVyQ5QNxAHuEiiPmV6rfLc9s/s1600/IMG_0761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9SdXd-lwJjDmVZRR-BPdTeNrf0-Jm9SAk-La71feQS-Dw1hLbcqsV9U8FNSaTe1f_d9qar-cqaxUVwqyZdlib1CbMvMPEnhfDhUWh4Lr70hbf988eH3WVyQ5QNxAHuEiiPmV6rfLc9s/s1600/IMG_0761.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next stop on our European adventure: Berlin! If you have any questions about Salzburg, please feel free to reach out to me via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@tran_gerine</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time...see you in the next post! You won't want to miss out on Berlin. There's so much to share!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-1533482252821682192018-10-04T09:20:00.000-07:002018-10-10T12:44:25.781-07:00Hallo München!<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
This past week has been an amazing whirlwind of experiences. Last night, my friend, Sarah, and I just got back to L.A. after spending a week in Germany and Austria. In total, we flew for 15.5 hours and were both up for over 24 hours. It was quite a trek back, but definitely worth the trip to Europe.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<b>DAY 1: ARRIVAL</b></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Last Thursday, we landed in the beautiful Bavarian city of Munich. The weather was sunny and chilly, but beautiful. It was a relatively quiet city, but nonetheless, had many activities to offer. On our first day, we got breakfast at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediaq2b" href="http://www.gartensalon.net/">Gartensalon,</a></span> a really adorable indoor and outdoor garden themed brunch spot. Sarah got the scrambled egg Mexican toast with loose leaf green tea, while I ordered the honey scrambled egg honey mustard toast with ginger tea. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<a dataquery="#txtMediaq2b" href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/null"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTRmfM1Uis41ep92wUGDCtA23y0uY7pLCcpeiuIOhnLd2578iHeTv1UxVYF3GeOBPoFhXrrnVQvoKpvjqr-JWoJoH0Srvyeq7mQgl4aJ_wd48wqKklxXxtMmyunfRf85hM4mqbvdDTIg/s1600/IMG_0849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTRmfM1Uis41ep92wUGDCtA23y0uY7pLCcpeiuIOhnLd2578iHeTv1UxVYF3GeOBPoFhXrrnVQvoKpvjqr-JWoJoH0Srvyeq7mQgl4aJ_wd48wqKklxXxtMmyunfRf85hM4mqbvdDTIg/s1600/IMG_0849.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cQ6-BiZ-_thgQDq0yktIOi0o9_9rK7qS4sdyhX_9fERNsfeuE7qJlQeBeTVlWAHVywHNYeadItxC-Ril8dpskrh-og3nbwF6MbX330nLr05fyIjbmx0BCVgJC2SVdneOtIV-5cZdi40/s1600/IMG_0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cQ6-BiZ-_thgQDq0yktIOi0o9_9rK7qS4sdyhX_9fERNsfeuE7qJlQeBeTVlWAHVywHNYeadItxC-Ril8dpskrh-og3nbwF6MbX330nLr05fyIjbmx0BCVgJC2SVdneOtIV-5cZdi40/s1600/IMG_0070.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
The toast was the most magnificent breakfast we ate in Munich. The crispy mixed grain toast coupled with the sauce, scrambled eggs, cucumber, and freshly picked sprouts, made for the perfect breakfast. I would highly recommend this place if you're looking for some delicious and uncomplicated breakfast in a relaxing environment. Just be careful of the bees. They loved to hang out our table!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After breakfast, we headed to the <a href="https://www.muenchen.de/int/en/sights/churches/church-of-st-peter.html">Church of St. Peter</a>, also known as <a href="https://www.muenchen.de/int/en/sights/churches/church-of-st-peter.html">Peterskirche</a> to explore the aerial views of the city. After exploring the church and climbing 299 steps, we were met with the most breathtaking view of Munich all around. Sunny weather, blue skies, and beautiful ceramic rooftops stretched for miles. It was my favorite view of Munich. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAriSPCHPCNmEgXTEkJPx8vudd6Nn8qa5LQj_HKi5uwSkkMmDCH9Ex4PxCadgezQElJbGDQ6zMSJ-9IaycPgl0Xl8mQAo8fQ7Triw52uShHGxUEV39RgBjPSw0QOJddqQfxm47o4SzgJI/s1600/IMG_0083.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAriSPCHPCNmEgXTEkJPx8vudd6Nn8qa5LQj_HKi5uwSkkMmDCH9Ex4PxCadgezQElJbGDQ6zMSJ-9IaycPgl0Xl8mQAo8fQ7Triw52uShHGxUEV39RgBjPSw0QOJddqQfxm47o4SzgJI/s1600/IMG_0083.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Peterskirche</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_wDzfiaqpKFF-UnirlytMn96bO8vA0t9njra-W4L1DOgFkL99Qnlhs_OqGNWWKJkI2BPt7E6e3jkygYo_VAjMl11zwz9bLMNtwtrxl4o99oX5x9RxXhWHiA8CalZkO-m3p_gkghbmCM/s1600/IMG_0088.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_wDzfiaqpKFF-UnirlytMn96bO8vA0t9njra-W4L1DOgFkL99Qnlhs_OqGNWWKJkI2BPt7E6e3jkygYo_VAjMl11zwz9bLMNtwtrxl4o99oX5x9RxXhWHiA8CalZkO-m3p_gkghbmCM/s1600/IMG_0088.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Aerial view of Munich.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
By midday, we were pretty exhausted from all of the jet lag, and retreated to our hotel, the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia8cv" href="https://www.ruby-hotels.com/hotels-destinations/muenchen/ruby-lilly?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8ef1ifns3QIVGMRkCh1Q2gIzEAAYASAAEgJznvD_BwE">Ruby Lilly Hotel.</a></span> It was a lovely, bohemian boutique hotel, with mixed tape cassette tapes along the entry wall, vintage tvs, a dark but cozy downstairs bar, an intimate upstairs library, and clean and quiet rooms. It was as if someone had catered this hotel just for us. We loved every bit it!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXzCtdoDaLHsbgNIPCcBs9j1HAWGaOcNccLMRISSQHtMZVUD6a_iqhgvD9aVodS8r6CGG61Lq9pHhMTFjt3Kf8vikridv0sCOvou3KA99HgLrFgU8J0A7GWyJcJOLWrnjwV_qAUq5Kfo/s1600/2018-09-27+17.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1186" data-original-width="1600" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXzCtdoDaLHsbgNIPCcBs9j1HAWGaOcNccLMRISSQHtMZVUD6a_iqhgvD9aVodS8r6CGG61Lq9pHhMTFjt3Kf8vikridv0sCOvou3KA99HgLrFgU8J0A7GWyJcJOLWrnjwV_qAUq5Kfo/s1600/2018-09-27+17.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQo28sv1l3DwM_teaIwR4v2jZA5I2QV9rXTIjEScGfUJwCQ6ThiLeKxrnb8NHuo6yQvPNWJ8oS5JhpH_l0P54wRMmzXcybgOK0oKvQaVbzfNzoujdEPwYexJ1eRyUgg8ivlS9ckU3bkA/s1600/2018-09-27+16.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQo28sv1l3DwM_teaIwR4v2jZA5I2QV9rXTIjEScGfUJwCQ6ThiLeKxrnb8NHuo6yQvPNWJ8oS5JhpH_l0P54wRMmzXcybgOK0oKvQaVbzfNzoujdEPwYexJ1eRyUgg8ivlS9ckU3bkA/s1600/2018-09-27+16.jpeg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewieMzZbI7GGR2iCFyxYI74K7QAKaqqcSqQBnUyuDJ4ufxqjgyALRCE-SX-7ouSgJN8IhXwkDa60lGvKNza8Fi-6OOjVrIyRLymKd3NcHefeFLlcpgqiooK0EjMYbMyhxFGLLZB22VUo/s1600/2018-09-27_09_51_25.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewieMzZbI7GGR2iCFyxYI74K7QAKaqqcSqQBnUyuDJ4ufxqjgyALRCE-SX-7ouSgJN8IhXwkDa60lGvKNza8Fi-6OOjVrIyRLymKd3NcHefeFLlcpgqiooK0EjMYbMyhxFGLLZB22VUo/s1600/2018-09-27_09_51_25.jpeg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
In the evening, we had dinner at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia12do" href="https://www.muenchner-stubn.de/en/">München Stubn</a></span> where we were served large portions of chicken salads in casserole dishes. The atmosphere was nice and intimate. The restaurant was busy and cozy, and the food was fresh and delicious. The dishes were pretty standard, but nonetheless, it was a good experience. We decided to call it an early night since we were going to Oktoberfest the next day.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcxyFkphiiZbszv6ixIYuN6ae0-EBtjofpXCe8HJxfW2y3tFTuw6DGOKy1Y2BYxXaUMbFaY1CCU1SeajQSh-GkkqOSesXdkqGZdtekCoykOqzVtZLt2Y3_zeK3gi1jBxSdyL6ddzlIok/s1600/16.634.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcxyFkphiiZbszv6ixIYuN6ae0-EBtjofpXCe8HJxfW2y3tFTuw6DGOKy1Y2BYxXaUMbFaY1CCU1SeajQSh-GkkqOSesXdkqGZdtekCoykOqzVtZLt2Y3_zeK3gi1jBxSdyL6ddzlIok/s1600/16.634.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<b>DAY 2: OKTOBERFEST</b></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Alas, the day finally arrived...<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1rho" href="https://www.oktoberfest.de/en/">Oktoberfest</a></span>! Sarah and I had been long awaiting this moment for months. A bucket list item to be crossed out, we woke up early on Friday to transform ourselves in to Bavarian Fraus "Bavarian women" for the day. We both wore the traditional Bavarian dress, the "dirndl", before walking to the Oktoberfest grounds in Theresienwiese. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUh_Xy7Jn01oUzFJjI388GFJDheejzJfZE5w8rVXv9ote56ENAx72niphXdshkWLKGsimpU_QaGaMga4UD4j-NGRB5z1UKf1fufk58z4ZkKt2AgT_sYAFXl3dzwZF_bM31NI9zFKiqCHs/s1600/IMG_0277.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1373" data-original-width="1099" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUh_Xy7Jn01oUzFJjI388GFJDheejzJfZE5w8rVXv9ote56ENAx72niphXdshkWLKGsimpU_QaGaMga4UD4j-NGRB5z1UKf1fufk58z4ZkKt2AgT_sYAFXl3dzwZF_bM31NI9zFKiqCHs/s1600/IMG_0277.jpeg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bavarian dirndl.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpWwoSmK8m2HOKpk5eYE1BnKo4xa-Hd0nG7gD8dxvNUT8BICeVL0n0FBwwWCkbvoAKL9V6XTaMAUcUn1k3YGIo2_mk2-4L6bBVaX9U_iQlvJ0dh6EqjkCovJ8vbKdfT5yEoVaa6rfFgM/s1600/IMG_0111.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpWwoSmK8m2HOKpk5eYE1BnKo4xa-Hd0nG7gD8dxvNUT8BICeVL0n0FBwwWCkbvoAKL9V6XTaMAUcUn1k3YGIo2_mk2-4L6bBVaX9U_iQlvJ0dh6EqjkCovJ8vbKdfT5yEoVaa6rfFgM/s1600/IMG_0111.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Zwei fraus ready for Oktoberfest!</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After a bit of a walk and a few detours, we made it to Oktoberfest at about noon. Sarah recommended that we visit the<a dataquery="#txtMediawa7" href="https://www.oktoberfest.de/en/article/Beer+Tents/The+big+tents/Hacker-Festhalle/315/"> Hacker-Pschorr </a>tent, where we headed to and ultimately stayed for the rest of the day. When we arrived, we were quickly seated front and center by a kind hostess despite the tent being relatively full. Initially, it was a bit intimidating being placed at a table of about five guys. The ice quickly broke when the beer Maß came out, and the table community was built. We met new friends: Daniel, Markus, Jahn, Johnny, and Jochen. Everyone was kind and welcoming, and everyone rose to sing and dance to the live bands playing. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTBXrC53cw1GJyMvyLxkq5QYXnZTgsMw0Mo2g8F3UM9JHkxtY9CeAqA3ICIjAjevF_KyMJT7B-e0cEP4K1Zk_rpkdYp7uW6g7JcMq3Seu-6hG7HbyZUm6Qh2Da3naJmSOaLmQW6AOjw4/s1600/IMG_0173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1279" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTBXrC53cw1GJyMvyLxkq5QYXnZTgsMw0Mo2g8F3UM9JHkxtY9CeAqA3ICIjAjevF_KyMJT7B-e0cEP4K1Zk_rpkdYp7uW6g7JcMq3Seu-6hG7HbyZUm6Qh2Da3naJmSOaLmQW6AOjw4/s1600/IMG_0173.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb394EcGIwZDjkBFGkAhRN7tCzaUqq4dezOTKfhCV2a33Z81WUx-WF4ffhN46cSOCrfTD3PmS8YZn5YnhlkZHdbBxi0nL9Fz5GwASJBkb5frUbp1rAtULpbxPeyjX1Rf32s-LAkcyoVSI/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb394EcGIwZDjkBFGkAhRN7tCzaUqq4dezOTKfhCV2a33Z81WUx-WF4ffhN46cSOCrfTD3PmS8YZn5YnhlkZHdbBxi0nL9Fz5GwASJBkb5frUbp1rAtULpbxPeyjX1Rf32s-LAkcyoVSI/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
2.5 Maß each, a chicken meal, lots of karaoke, and dancing later, we headed out of Oktoberfest at about 9pm. While we never really had a chance to explore the festival grounds, or change tents, we had an incredible experience in the Hacker tent. Simple, but beautifully decorated with light blue skies, light clouds, and starlights, this tent was definitely a lot of fun. If you decide to come to this tent, get ready for lots of karaoke to country, rock, and oldies music like "Sweet Caroline", "Rocking All Over the World", "Who the F*** is Alice", and "Que Sera Sera".</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxggkULb6Gl2CCN8TCXYDTW42hRr-vvTzT6ZqIun234hWoHd5MbnjAiBBJesNg7LJdjdOh6v2ACU6nwCiMWaQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Pro Tip: Don't forget to eat and pace yourself with beer in the tents! </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Oktoberfest was a lot of fun, and definitely creates a lot of community amongst everyone from different backgrounds. Definitely one of one of my favorite festivals I've been to. If you want to know more about my experience or have any questions about Oktoberfest, please feel free to reach out to me via <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1ja6" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a></span> or <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1u23" href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a></span> via <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1iib" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@tran_gerine</a></span>. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Next up...Austria! Stay tuned.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Prost!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0Munich, Germany48.1351253 11.58198049999998647.965637799999996 11.259256999999986 48.3046128 11.904703999999986tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-91660870177328247812018-07-22T21:50:00.001-07:002018-07-22T21:50:14.875-07:00Getty Villa<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
I'm back! It's been a busy three months, and I'm long overdue for a vacation. This weekend, I got to get away for a little bit and reset. I realized that I was lacking some real life inspo lately, and needed something to get my creative juices flowing again. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkzlB53g_3x_KVrxi4_IocjX5nucK2C2pSGeTyWapiF1P-EtNjZffB8XzqISPyiL1SiXRnTwzzbMm0Yik3NeTUxLE-RS_ismWOXvFRdYxTwuY1eggzAjfKdYBHy1h1jAnYrx8XT9kanc/s1600/IMG_5993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkzlB53g_3x_KVrxi4_IocjX5nucK2C2pSGeTyWapiF1P-EtNjZffB8XzqISPyiL1SiXRnTwzzbMm0Yik3NeTUxLE-RS_ismWOXvFRdYxTwuY1eggzAjfKdYBHy1h1jAnYrx8XT9kanc/s640/IMG_5993.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
The stairway near the entrance.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
The <a href="http://www.getty.edu/visit/">Getty Center</a> in Los Angeles is one of my favorite art museums in Los Angeles, being both architecturally unique and artistically thought out. The <a href="http://www.getty.edu/visit/villa/">Getty Villa</a>, a sister property to the Getty Center, has long been on my list of places to visit. Seeing as they had a "Classic Coif and Latin Locks: Women's Hair in Ancient Rome" demonstration happening at the museum, I thought it would be a great opportunity to go.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9KSdQUZc6Lceny2QZEqNYnzy2qVdvW04j9Hs9iFfADX4hQepkOO4sAIq2Y1JXv7t42tZXGRhhfnf3NTknWMAaJ-C22g9UTfclnRK6OAHDNFCKYULwKHpmZydfnK05GmeeoP5crjpnGA/s1600/IMG_5986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9KSdQUZc6Lceny2QZEqNYnzy2qVdvW04j9Hs9iFfADX4hQepkOO4sAIq2Y1JXv7t42tZXGRhhfnf3NTknWMAaJ-C22g9UTfclnRK6OAHDNFCKYULwKHpmZydfnK05GmeeoP5crjpnGA/s640/IMG_5986.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
The smaller courtyard.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
While the traffic to get into the museum from PCH was really terrible, the property itself proved to be a magnificent treat. I loved the fact that it was not packed like some of the other museums in L.A., and the fact that everything was spread out. I'm not going to lie, I think the floors were my favorite part of the museum. I think I went a bit overboard with my tile photos, but everything was beyond terrific. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsETZxLb0Z-cN6BjrNuRE54vaMAI4Ifd7iIvIsOpSjS5AKNz7rdGKfroVRUMgWQqA5Sglw5CvEJQSt_96pG3uK1rFxqOXqBsUZfJUNY6vXw032scBllbl-yV29WzUlolxocnPLIPTPfM/s1600/IMG_5992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsETZxLb0Z-cN6BjrNuRE54vaMAI4Ifd7iIvIsOpSjS5AKNz7rdGKfroVRUMgWQqA5Sglw5CvEJQSt_96pG3uK1rFxqOXqBsUZfJUNY6vXw032scBllbl-yV29WzUlolxocnPLIPTPfM/s640/IMG_5992.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
My favorite floor pattern today.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnPk6A7oUo9dwKG_u6S5OhMlqLKo6rZkhbeHTpy6B-_K0G5GrtpGqoyHtcIEazCF0aWeGgf5XSjjNVgw7nbGsd3ySjNL1r_DBU7lqZi8yoosbIfv94ax6Mcr3W5OUuKyd5glnvgH1ZOQ/s1600/IMG_6024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnPk6A7oUo9dwKG_u6S5OhMlqLKo6rZkhbeHTpy6B-_K0G5GrtpGqoyHtcIEazCF0aWeGgf5XSjjNVgw7nbGsd3ySjNL1r_DBU7lqZi8yoosbIfv94ax6Mcr3W5OUuKyd5glnvgH1ZOQ/s640/IMG_6024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
This one reminds me of the azulejos in Portugal.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpF32-PHrxCbZ81Aj33JbjBCrlnzVN0GNcEYBI2OSCP5p1fcOVCH-2Ghr_k_H434fHY8v2Xgy3gYw2uOwy55BFG5JRROkNAkOqXIGOVH2zxIZAXs5KbEHTtUimVab_yUckM4LYZ23lGY/s1600/IMG_6021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpF32-PHrxCbZ81Aj33JbjBCrlnzVN0GNcEYBI2OSCP5p1fcOVCH-2Ghr_k_H434fHY8v2Xgy3gYw2uOwy55BFG5JRROkNAkOqXIGOVH2zxIZAXs5KbEHTtUimVab_yUckM4LYZ23lGY/s640/IMG_6021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
I love how bright and happy this design is. It reminds me of spring.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
The entire property was clean, lush, and well maintained. One of the courtyards at the villa reminded me exactly of the courtyard gardens at the Vatican, which I had visited about 4 months ago. It really gave me a lot of Italy withdrawals to say the least. There was a lot of Greek and Roman art and statues in the museum. More or less, the majority of the museum was comprised of sculptures and artifacts than actual paintings or other forms of media. My favorite statue was that of the Goddess, Nike, the Goddess of Victory. That was definitely new information to say the least, and clever branding for the athletic shoe and apparel industry.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhtJ3Cs0qzx74GkQpOznNBbQmbnTe3e4qROK7SVSYJ01FT-2al0y6wTr6LjJbfTE0gmrVPSNl9m7VbH4MPN-RWWOEJ_5W88PZV_aR4iXdS2qzvRBJ9QPzPWLRDIqYzy8dCCBWdHQKOIc/s1600/IMG_6031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhtJ3Cs0qzx74GkQpOznNBbQmbnTe3e4qROK7SVSYJ01FT-2al0y6wTr6LjJbfTE0gmrVPSNl9m7VbH4MPN-RWWOEJ_5W88PZV_aR4iXdS2qzvRBJ9QPzPWLRDIqYzy8dCCBWdHQKOIc/s640/IMG_6031.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
The gorgeous corridor lining all four sides of the villa.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SZECYc51WEtpBl7nWgCObkATI9Q9tCJqgMcGOP724kVEp8D8gIvlkcI27VbWmGdlpgehCffRYaYz9oCIHkBtoOZizNlx40eZOQGC_giFjMYnbEGnXgkkS9Ws5VOB7AAlttDzBS33Foc/s1600/IMG_5999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SZECYc51WEtpBl7nWgCObkATI9Q9tCJqgMcGOP724kVEp8D8gIvlkcI27VbWmGdlpgehCffRYaYz9oCIHkBtoOZizNlx40eZOQGC_giFjMYnbEGnXgkkS9Ws5VOB7AAlttDzBS33Foc/s640/IMG_5999.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The smaller courtyard that reminds me of the Vatican courtyard.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTiHZwRoiRskrx-o8LgYEF-pwVfQ-5DTuO3J7qzssOD6DOcYlNwOPjsNXdtA4Vg5zakZMasGwvzeZzvJZHk-Og-e-9BYaReTcRnFvLoyjZyx2wqvbcryE-t1wrUeCRNrHW_ssWjbYezk/s1600/IMG_6029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTiHZwRoiRskrx-o8LgYEF-pwVfQ-5DTuO3J7qzssOD6DOcYlNwOPjsNXdtA4Vg5zakZMasGwvzeZzvJZHk-Og-e-9BYaReTcRnFvLoyjZyx2wqvbcryE-t1wrUeCRNrHW_ssWjbYezk/s640/IMG_6029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVnQKsLqEgoxA6X9W7wVa1sl7IuibcJMzrJk4Y51xKZJn7R5vC-hFOFpwH3XL6owDPvSJcDQ0K3eZ7rXDixnuy7bCKJ-Pfzc4rvb-_Or06_m80CXLr56L1lOyTxtVe3yN4xsfp2q185I/s1600/IMG_6026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVnQKsLqEgoxA6X9W7wVa1sl7IuibcJMzrJk4Y51xKZJn7R5vC-hFOFpwH3XL6owDPvSJcDQ0K3eZ7rXDixnuy7bCKJ-Pfzc4rvb-_Or06_m80CXLr56L1lOyTxtVe3yN4xsfp2q185I/s640/IMG_6026.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The larger courtyard.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN0OnGC4Tg2mJO_utK-M-G80j8mEWz9Phrk8EvgMUMd05J9RDfYH13UFt8I8xil3jp6CN0vheTRzFW1yLzlr9Zz-jpVf0Pjzhg_IrE2nLDZMkTgTCavqDpP62chuk5CVcVPJ472z9z3M/s1600/IMG_6019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN0OnGC4Tg2mJO_utK-M-G80j8mEWz9Phrk8EvgMUMd05J9RDfYH13UFt8I8xil3jp6CN0vheTRzFW1yLzlr9Zz-jpVf0Pjzhg_IrE2nLDZMkTgTCavqDpP62chuk5CVcVPJ472z9z3M/s640/IMG_6019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWW5kvNMCfGjGhcOduhyphenhyphenRu1JAmzTiG4T9HLkNjlSRl6KkeZAnrkek67x5kI7HndXVeDu1hv9hfoaAdFnb8G1h5Y_9II02buAQt59LhnzAnnQzBxz8iAfeQRAve_7FYXArY9oOcZx4bjU/s1600/IMG_5984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWW5kvNMCfGjGhcOduhyphenhyphenRu1JAmzTiG4T9HLkNjlSRl6KkeZAnrkek67x5kI7HndXVeDu1hv9hfoaAdFnb8G1h5Y_9II02buAQt59LhnzAnnQzBxz8iAfeQRAve_7FYXArY9oOcZx4bjU/s640/IMG_5984.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYc5M5O9zIzEAlCRkzuHHmJ6Vt41YQWa-jZ-azG_G01qrk95LAy-teCPp1LevUeFAVxNpMUiIvIr7XVrD-Wvw9dixEQdlSEpFivvNnmKbo_UNgWh1iov2Sh1EdEeixUi0EeBaIHHuzSqg/s1600/IMG_6015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYc5M5O9zIzEAlCRkzuHHmJ6Vt41YQWa-jZ-azG_G01qrk95LAy-teCPp1LevUeFAVxNpMUiIvIr7XVrD-Wvw9dixEQdlSEpFivvNnmKbo_UNgWh1iov2Sh1EdEeixUi0EeBaIHHuzSqg/s640/IMG_6015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnL2bHqIUpxQo4We2mFLXEsPv7IrO15NAPW132QXVRxzairVMmOxEcpQshdqDi90hal5wNfXd2qJXvyPw1jDdjSTP13vkZqnviYlXYOZckZaet7-ZkE5EwYQ5nZwwBpA7m1Z2Q0mG6IE/s1600/IMG_6011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnL2bHqIUpxQo4We2mFLXEsPv7IrO15NAPW132QXVRxzairVMmOxEcpQshdqDi90hal5wNfXd2qJXvyPw1jDdjSTP13vkZqnviYlXYOZckZaet7-ZkE5EwYQ5nZwwBpA7m1Z2Q0mG6IE/s640/IMG_6011.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzb8gjh1amTbHZVGsVlJRVXmGy5e57E0NoMCx3_mQUjnQJffCzhE0NkbDHRvT2bOkELN8RXBw_HR3J4mVTAlGtyOEjYMwXtGQdSXA1V_JWHkyfGIuCyB6WYzdogvpDyML0B5iMPjKK6k/s1600/IMG_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzb8gjh1amTbHZVGsVlJRVXmGy5e57E0NoMCx3_mQUjnQJffCzhE0NkbDHRvT2bOkELN8RXBw_HR3J4mVTAlGtyOEjYMwXtGQdSXA1V_JWHkyfGIuCyB6WYzdogvpDyML0B5iMPjKK6k/s640/IMG_6018.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXBO85ZSp2HSY0UwDtkEGVx450IVS92FDr1aPGKG4fe7uJMuXJvpyNrTQIzAEdWndn99fj3RJZ_CNF29Wte0Hb7kWDuNdCZo9uGvn6-Nz3iuXSfwDE-D6Wmk_oCnjSePLvIEhyphenhyphenZ7SUT5M/s1600/IMG_6017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXBO85ZSp2HSY0UwDtkEGVx450IVS92FDr1aPGKG4fe7uJMuXJvpyNrTQIzAEdWndn99fj3RJZ_CNF29Wte0Hb7kWDuNdCZo9uGvn6-Nz3iuXSfwDE-D6Wmk_oCnjSePLvIEhyphenhyphenZ7SUT5M/s640/IMG_6017.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nike the Goddess of Victory.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
While the rest of L.A. was scorching hot, the Getty Villa was actually really cool and breezy. It sat on top of a hill in the California Pacific Palisades overlooking the beach. I literally stayed there during the entire duration of the museum hours. I spent half of my time outdoors, enjoying the gardens and real grape vines growing over the archways. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYJo75nhggnnom5BEZRjzrrk8xA67iW2gbY2f8Em8HGHODqqcSGSDZPwXO83QWw1rfSADNxj-qoJklWi8iS3I9LsoTR-y2NQH2m6dJ7WNMAsqiyQdAwxnOS7mXyr7yt0T2C7dvw81wzs/s1600/IMG_6027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYJo75nhggnnom5BEZRjzrrk8xA67iW2gbY2f8Em8HGHODqqcSGSDZPwXO83QWw1rfSADNxj-qoJklWi8iS3I9LsoTR-y2NQH2m6dJ7WNMAsqiyQdAwxnOS7mXyr7yt0T2C7dvw81wzs/s640/IMG_6027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
The grape vines looking lush and full of fruit!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Visiting the Getty Villa was a nice mini staycation to keep me creatively motivated while I work through the summer months. After looking at my calendar tonight, I realized that I only have a few more weeks to go until I leave for Germany. I'm really excited to try all of the food, have the best local cup of coffee, check out the sights and sounds, and of course, check out the art and music scene. I've been getting some really good tips from friends and co-workers on where to stay, where to eat, and what to do, and I'm very excited. If you have any tips you want to share with me, feel free to DM me on <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. Talk to you soon!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Until then,</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-50228680446203118492018-04-29T22:34:00.000-07:002018-04-29T22:34:36.581-07:00Year of YES.If you know me, you know that I love podcasts and audiobooks. They help me to pass the time when I'm stuck in traffic to and from work. Recently, I finished the audiobook, <i>Year of Yes, </i>by Shonda Rhimes. My friend recommended it to me about a month ago, and it really opened my perspective of saying yes to things. If you haven't read it, go read it! In my opinion, the first 3/4 of the book were great, but then things started to get dry for me. Let me know what your thoughts are when you finish the book!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As an introvert, it's quite easy to for me say no to a lot of things. To be at home or by one's self to recharge is to be comfortable. In short, I learned from Shonda's book that it's good to say, "yes" to things that scare you. You never know what you'll learn about yourself unless you say yes. Yesterday, I had a really good conversation with someone about what it meant to say, "yes". The worst thing that could happen when you try something new is that you might hate it, learn from it, and move on. It's all part of life, and who knows. Maybe saying yes for once will turn into something amazing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've been been trying to be more of a yes person in my daily life. Yes to new experiences. Yes to pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Yes to more artistic liberties. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-t7YXI_rxJbn7bfkjz08OLRmzjMZeu1FplZMAhqDtweXmjyBUczZLiBYUAVDPN2J6iEyLeHlXkxTC6KNUhDOc50HlpOumIpDTNIhUA3X5I-bK3U6Xzv07cmdpnjYRnwiOkC-hojyUL4/s1600/03795025-218F-494D-8F51-82DB471F43B3+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1204" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-t7YXI_rxJbn7bfkjz08OLRmzjMZeu1FplZMAhqDtweXmjyBUczZLiBYUAVDPN2J6iEyLeHlXkxTC6KNUhDOc50HlpOumIpDTNIhUA3X5I-bK3U6Xzv07cmdpnjYRnwiOkC-hojyUL4/s1600/03795025-218F-494D-8F51-82DB471F43B3+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
This week, I had the opportunity to be part of a bridal photoshoot for the launch of my friend's new business, Yesterday, I explored some more places in LA on my bucket list like grabbing brunch at Gracias Madre and visiting the Star Wars themed bar, Scum & Villainy Cantina. Between working full time, prepping for grad school, volunteering in my free time, and exploring the city, I guess you can say my hands are pretty full right now. I love making the most out of my time, and saying yes to new experiences lately has definitely made me a happier person. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's to many more yeses to come.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-77150335613057722722018-04-05T23:00:00.001-07:002018-04-06T06:16:55.132-07:00Napoli<span style="font-family: inherit;">One word: Spontaneous.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">With one extra day to spare, we weren't sure about how to spend our last day in Italy. Do we stay in Rome? Do we go back to Florence to visit the Uffizi or Accademia Galleries? Or should we head south and explore Naples? With the day full of possibilities, we decided to get ready for the day and just go with the flow. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My brother found some train tickets departing Roma Termini towards Naples (also known as Napoli) at about 11:45am, so we decided to head further south of the Italian peninsula for our final day of vacation. After a quick stop to <a href="https://www.google.com/search?ei=gwHHWrX4JdLAtQX9_7WoAw&q=sant+eustachio+rome&oq=sant+e&gs_l=psy-ab.1.0.0i20i263k1j0j0i20i263k1j0l7.1764868.1767283.0.1768353.10.8.2.0.0.0.126.750.6j2.8.0....0...1c.1.64.psy-ab..0.10.756...35i39k1j0i67k1j0i10i67k1j0i131k1j0i131i67k1j0i10k1.0.bJPkhIEVxQY">Sant' Eustachio Il Caffè</a>, for some Cappuccinos and pastries for breakfast, we made our way to the train station.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After experiencing a minor delay with our train, we were finally on our way. The ride lasted a little over an hour, and offered beautiful and scenic views of the countryside.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZzd-ifRpiMcjB_StzoRq39OhR4kMaQjQ3ZHkOKP8kfIkn3nK5ZZVp_7sg8ZizN3BzzteH-BaEhTFpZjc1xcH4lJGgXZ5nju_V7L0tcLYUUbiatpNz_4bgeMrjIhQEtb1hTJSOidPXOw/s1600/6FCA3895-4001-43EE-AC35-AE2F497B31D2+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZzd-ifRpiMcjB_StzoRq39OhR4kMaQjQ3ZHkOKP8kfIkn3nK5ZZVp_7sg8ZizN3BzzteH-BaEhTFpZjc1xcH4lJGgXZ5nju_V7L0tcLYUUbiatpNz_4bgeMrjIhQEtb1hTJSOidPXOw/s1600/6FCA3895-4001-43EE-AC35-AE2F497B31D2+2.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wO0AYM58gAXMZQ5utNgJvlhoPWUB1KZv63TyES3AV5f4u2QsjDabT7NbWLxqkQ7aI3LxsmvkS4JQC9wh7FD_rzFGpUnztIri-X3CUEYX1V2aAqMjmPvqSflScFn1ArbF2JN3zUxxaG0/s1600/FullSizeRender+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wO0AYM58gAXMZQ5utNgJvlhoPWUB1KZv63TyES3AV5f4u2QsjDabT7NbWLxqkQ7aI3LxsmvkS4JQC9wh7FD_rzFGpUnztIri-X3CUEYX1V2aAqMjmPvqSflScFn1ArbF2JN3zUxxaG0/s1600/FullSizeRender+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When we arrived, it was time to get some lunch. After losing our parents for half an hour, my brother found them standing in line for <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/zia-esterina-sorbillo-napoli">Zia Esterina Sorbillo</a>, a local hotspot for fried pizza. My mother was pretty excited to be trying something new, and up until this point, fried pizza was a very foreign concept to us. When we got our order, we were met with a large, crescent shaped, hot pocket like fried pizza. It was delicious, light, crispy on the outside, and crisp on the inside. The pizza bread reminded me a lot of a pizza since the crust was so thin. Nonetheless, everyone enjoyed the meal.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFccZ9BJv8XqSEfTeismkpUKmyk41B2hTsjC-jbh5KMoLDoxyACTPUDFEmkIMJVb8JpJO3aYz_UPKLw-LdOvIC3-NEKKUi-OV-Z38rKMbwBgGTAXSw0xnjkfOjemBH47xCLDMx_K7Dk0M/s1600/DAA2B9EB-C73E-46F8-8475-A879B2AD5917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFccZ9BJv8XqSEfTeismkpUKmyk41B2hTsjC-jbh5KMoLDoxyACTPUDFEmkIMJVb8JpJO3aYz_UPKLw-LdOvIC3-NEKKUi-OV-Z38rKMbwBgGTAXSw0xnjkfOjemBH47xCLDMx_K7Dk0M/s1600/DAA2B9EB-C73E-46F8-8475-A879B2AD5917.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After lunch, it was time to head to Santa Lucia. Considering the wider streets and heavier flow of traffic in the city, we were actually shocked that Uber was unavailable. As opposed to taking a taxi into the coast, we decided to walk instead.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">40 minutes later, we arrived at Santa Lucia, the beautiful costal region of Naples. The water was this rich turquoise color, and there were empty row boats just floating in the water. We thoroughly enjoyed the area as the breeze was fresh, the views were gorgeous, and the dock was peaceful. That was the first time that we saw water on the western coast of Italy. It was absolutely beautiful!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKI-LdpgrmD9HgsScW0di5ES1BtuS_0luXLkSuGIwhV3MbznZchIqwj9ORJkj_aXxMEPkN8CVElDCsXbf-fzcfBw2X8hr5kUAJmzTYY26iHAYxi0H6_sfTGjLJQa69KZNIzmej1wlUZ4o/s1600/IMG_9055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKI-LdpgrmD9HgsScW0di5ES1BtuS_0luXLkSuGIwhV3MbznZchIqwj9ORJkj_aXxMEPkN8CVElDCsXbf-fzcfBw2X8hr5kUAJmzTYY26iHAYxi0H6_sfTGjLJQa69KZNIzmej1wlUZ4o/s1600/IMG_9055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsIL-NGvsDbiaoEiYieT3glFCS3ZJq4BOoYODjN4mKxBgJUsH4_SJsa6VCpWy6n31tmGDDYT7El4dWfirf7gdvIlC9hO1aKntIVAsDCRu1LR6pKYdgfs2-VaMqZSbYZ6xtFrscPDTlQ8/s1600/IMG_9056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsIL-NGvsDbiaoEiYieT3glFCS3ZJq4BOoYODjN4mKxBgJUsH4_SJsa6VCpWy6n31tmGDDYT7El4dWfirf7gdvIlC9hO1aKntIVAsDCRu1LR6pKYdgfs2-VaMqZSbYZ6xtFrscPDTlQ8/s1600/IMG_9056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEP2gt7ENGqfoOeL3T-3Snq8b7155EK30xt3qEE9GPAWJlmLHxrRh9ycuWbIcZ7MZmaWt8LJAOBjHTZ0i4iIlMJTB8h1ME_o0uPC5sfq2bCpgTRnFGVrK4qUJcwCDK6k_dn4r3ElDRDJg/s1600/IMG_9057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEP2gt7ENGqfoOeL3T-3Snq8b7155EK30xt3qEE9GPAWJlmLHxrRh9ycuWbIcZ7MZmaWt8LJAOBjHTZ0i4iIlMJTB8h1ME_o0uPC5sfq2bCpgTRnFGVrK4qUJcwCDK6k_dn4r3ElDRDJg/s1600/IMG_9057.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzZPGmyxnkvBompd-EEZuMp1VYtcV_pmJRhu0nRUmlC3jTKsC3EfyjQxLyTENmVVXyv8_UavFCKh3C25Q2Er3qvUb04EV_cz-J78GG_TZiTVAthDrGdnFc1-wun-qI2CdK7v8mcKqt68/s1600/IMG_9701+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzZPGmyxnkvBompd-EEZuMp1VYtcV_pmJRhu0nRUmlC3jTKsC3EfyjQxLyTENmVVXyv8_UavFCKh3C25Q2Er3qvUb04EV_cz-J78GG_TZiTVAthDrGdnFc1-wun-qI2CdK7v8mcKqt68/s1600/IMG_9701+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiOsgW9CR5F0ffq4kPz-r28dYCC85USbCrgWrLJiSh-bdb9-Z7ZNYmzs0F-UOL7brzenKSkzCLmfoVTwYoSGDg7ry3OoOY-56f5fmGNQWtwRx-IhOXz7INnynU7dhzuJytJkPMWQdsnA/s1600/IMG_8862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiOsgW9CR5F0ffq4kPz-r28dYCC85USbCrgWrLJiSh-bdb9-Z7ZNYmzs0F-UOL7brzenKSkzCLmfoVTwYoSGDg7ry3OoOY-56f5fmGNQWtwRx-IhOXz7INnynU7dhzuJytJkPMWQdsnA/s1600/IMG_8862.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzJPS3v9aceEQQG5b5isoUCpt13mcXp9vJ_WDTXcIj4ab7hv2J3h_gJueE3H1tyCXHbbTRrwF7XlngCRJrRcSwnnZEMjiIizLvh4pdTziGZeqJBbJ4Uu1dDQO-F0Qku1-d2EU7MZJY-Y/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzJPS3v9aceEQQG5b5isoUCpt13mcXp9vJ_WDTXcIj4ab7hv2J3h_gJueE3H1tyCXHbbTRrwF7XlngCRJrRcSwnnZEMjiIizLvh4pdTziGZeqJBbJ4Uu1dDQO-F0Qku1-d2EU7MZJY-Y/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After spending about 30-40 minutes on the coast, we decided to head to <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187785-d246273-Reviews-Quartieri_Spagnoli-Naples_Province_of_Naples_Campania.html">Quartieri Spagnoli</a>, a popular area in Naples for local shopping. This area reminded me a lot of the cliché vibes that a lot of us foreigns think of when we think of Italy. The clothes changing across the buildings, narrow street ways, lots of vespas and vehicles, and of course artisanal and high end shopping. We managed to do some shopping before our train back to Rome, which was quite nice. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmH3Nev7sILQ6hEpB6qTV9KhglcTf-DVCOAzfP5L89IwkH2-pxPxNW7kwL13Oj6ux7gJdf3Ie_p_3rDQgdG9_PiaK01-OzJThzDxKTdcjF-3rwo8f4bxcqse_z864ij0r88FwxWyygRyw/s1600/IMG_9059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmH3Nev7sILQ6hEpB6qTV9KhglcTf-DVCOAzfP5L89IwkH2-pxPxNW7kwL13Oj6ux7gJdf3Ie_p_3rDQgdG9_PiaK01-OzJThzDxKTdcjF-3rwo8f4bxcqse_z864ij0r88FwxWyygRyw/s1600/IMG_9059.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl49atsK3LiiHj5jlG_GMI3QqRxdJ3HjyJjdF31s2DfowtXZmjz99Pea1P4K_JyvMYB1L9yrXUU_JRe5lb9ZcxboCduqZdHiZolkfh3fehhpbWfE2XIdSxpugBRvnExO0MG3c3DlhzHiY/s1600/IMG_9060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl49atsK3LiiHj5jlG_GMI3QqRxdJ3HjyJjdF31s2DfowtXZmjz99Pea1P4K_JyvMYB1L9yrXUU_JRe5lb9ZcxboCduqZdHiZolkfh3fehhpbWfE2XIdSxpugBRvnExO0MG3c3DlhzHiY/s1600/IMG_9060.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpeudKmw9SmduSiF4Ra-3OjdWuje0ymhgHLHHkO3HZ4RKysNc6VaTKXmZ0HJL5pDtRYOCk4aYApmK7Pzg0YBGm0jdsxGdFrME-wfsEHQ7e0Hy0HuQEgGNBEdYNKWq6SuFdKCaHc7yY5vs/s1600/IMG_9058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpeudKmw9SmduSiF4Ra-3OjdWuje0ymhgHLHHkO3HZ4RKysNc6VaTKXmZ0HJL5pDtRYOCk4aYApmK7Pzg0YBGm0jdsxGdFrME-wfsEHQ7e0Hy0HuQEgGNBEdYNKWq6SuFdKCaHc7yY5vs/s1600/IMG_9058.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dAQw4TH_MAvW7ZUdiCuEJgOE14URFRRHstKHlOB43KMo6TnWIJHcVyocCfs68ozfLUfPYpRYnzKmM4btrFgkX7rJxXLI8eydKFpjOhvxO-LdJzYddwXy3DVqRK59KvFZE0SO-UMf1E0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dAQw4TH_MAvW7ZUdiCuEJgOE14URFRRHstKHlOB43KMo6TnWIJHcVyocCfs68ozfLUfPYpRYnzKmM4btrFgkX7rJxXLI8eydKFpjOhvxO-LdJzYddwXy3DVqRK59KvFZE0SO-UMf1E0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The indoor shopping mall architecture was exquisite. The roof was a glass dome and and the brick buildings nicely complimented the overall design of the mall. I was blown away.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6vBWyTfq5hNURCbDmVp2vkG4Uve5rQPJOHYRpoT4TSjYQTs5SysirvzDDR3Aymxy5TJdU3WC1QZuYUSJ6NTJOFOJ1NkJEOZ8rNa37bzHuUSmYv9SBBRqgi5Plri-1I6lpc0jby0pLkA/s1600/9A40090D-7B0A-408F-B03A-F5B963123024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6vBWyTfq5hNURCbDmVp2vkG4Uve5rQPJOHYRpoT4TSjYQTs5SysirvzDDR3Aymxy5TJdU3WC1QZuYUSJ6NTJOFOJ1NkJEOZ8rNa37bzHuUSmYv9SBBRqgi5Plri-1I6lpc0jby0pLkA/s1600/9A40090D-7B0A-408F-B03A-F5B963123024.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvT9nQvblm73qzmf5ap9MSUFZPJ_lz1hsOeLinOTnb3zy64xrQ3wCKmRPR1jwEJKaulc_OTsjJHlzKaUpzqfSIHTmJSQlyX8n8wNtuRT87Glrhxse1xoLZmXhM1Qu2afrSTXwUXHXnzY/s1600/Snapseed+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvT9nQvblm73qzmf5ap9MSUFZPJ_lz1hsOeLinOTnb3zy64xrQ3wCKmRPR1jwEJKaulc_OTsjJHlzKaUpzqfSIHTmJSQlyX8n8wNtuRT87Glrhxse1xoLZmXhM1Qu2afrSTXwUXHXnzY/s1600/Snapseed+19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At approximately 6pm, it was time to head back to the train station. We boarded the train at about 7:25pm and headed back to Rome for our last dinner in Italy. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our last dinner was quite hysterical. With many places already closed, we settled on a mom and pop Italian restaurant. I was so tired, I can't even remember the name of it. We were greeted by the host as if we had just entered a Disney theme park. The loud music was that of what you would hear from a cliché version of an Italian restaurant, and the decor was a bit hokey. Nonetheless, we had an excellent dinner and some final laughs to wrap up our trip. Afterwards, we headed back to our hotel to rest up before our flight home the next day.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The following morning, we woke up early and departed for the airport at around 8am. It was a busy time, as we barely made it to our check-in time for our layover in Z<span style="background-color: white;">ü</span>rich. Once in Z<span style="background-color: white;">ü</span>rich, we did what any chocolate lover would do and stocked up on some delicious Swiss chocolates before boarding our flight home to Los Angeles. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After a 12 hour flight, we finally made it home. I skipped dinner and went straight to bed from exhaustion and jet lag. It had been an extremely long day. I'm slowly getting better as we speak. I think I'm almost 100% better. Looking back, I had the most incredible trip of the year, and was glad to have been able to spend it with my family. It was nice to be able to introduce them to a part of the world that I love. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Coming back to California, I couldn't help but feel a little bit sad. By the end of any trip, I'm usually so elated to return home. I genuinely had an amazing time on this trip, and I think part of me wanted to stay longer. Of course, it does feel good to finally be back home. I'm already getting the urge to travel again, but I think I'll wait a little bit longer before I take another big trip. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX6RqaUsX-ZbcS6FbRbJI_nRs3WdGf1i04CaIdxhR1szFxmbf3QVPmFt3aAwvihe2K1H4mtBWpmCKEXMscBy2yoE0yLPqoI38Qg5JLwxz11cYgUQc_xQvLBlF65GHtRnbFvtl26eqaPk/s1600/FA963B8C-99EC-4467-989F-EFC118E381E3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX6RqaUsX-ZbcS6FbRbJI_nRs3WdGf1i04CaIdxhR1szFxmbf3QVPmFt3aAwvihe2K1H4mtBWpmCKEXMscBy2yoE0yLPqoI38Qg5JLwxz11cYgUQc_xQvLBlF65GHtRnbFvtl26eqaPk/s1600/FA963B8C-99EC-4467-989F-EFC118E381E3.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Where should I go next? London? Brazil? Cuba? Tokyo? Greece? Morocco? Let me know your thoughts and recommendations! If you have any questions about anything from my travels, please feel free to reach out to me via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Until next time!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ciao,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Melissa</span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-91418412882218852082018-04-04T01:34:00.002-07:002018-04-05T23:03:12.955-07:00Roma<div>
It's Wednesday morning (midnight) and day four of jet lag. I'd love to sleep a full night for once so that I don't have to be a sleepy zombie at work for once, but alas, I'm wide awake, so without further ado...here is blog 4/5 of my Europe series: Rome. Enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 1:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
No trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to Rome. At about 8:45am, we boarded a train from Florence towards Rome. The trip was quite short; about an ho ur and a half ride to the city. I slept the entire way there and woke up right as we were pulling into the station.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From there, we made a fifteen minute trek from the train station to our hotel in the heart of Rome. That morning was a busy one, as we only had enough time to drop off our bags before our scheduled tour at the <a href="http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html">Vatican Museums</a>. The Uber ride from our hotel into Vatican City was a short one, spanning about 15 minutes. Once there, we were met with large crowds awaiting to get inside. The check-in process was quick and seamless, as we had made an online reservation prior to our visit.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AS3XsksML1Xwprxyme52Fs5Y8BPDJ4w-UR7X94PZ2EbaSiRBGldy0cU5xP_wc3sBv01a7jBKgJzobyrbeAgmdzbcBFS1-b0o6M9_tKv4eHkC1YRq_VcK2m57U6snlL93j9IBZDCUtAo/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AS3XsksML1Xwprxyme52Fs5Y8BPDJ4w-UR7X94PZ2EbaSiRBGldy0cU5xP_wc3sBv01a7jBKgJzobyrbeAgmdzbcBFS1-b0o6M9_tKv4eHkC1YRq_VcK2m57U6snlL93j9IBZDCUtAo/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDalW5xvpfj2b_1uNDDyZVMeRVAUfw6TLc-YXqcTI_FIx6TpIiN3wklbYremrM0DoKyAFHNFg882moumrKyyk-iU6u7102mw6zj13TpKv-sb1IdYsp2gn4MRxIq7GS9izaIZM0YVDufHU/s1600/IMG_7959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDalW5xvpfj2b_1uNDDyZVMeRVAUfw6TLc-YXqcTI_FIx6TpIiN3wklbYremrM0DoKyAFHNFg882moumrKyyk-iU6u7102mw6zj13TpKv-sb1IdYsp2gn4MRxIq7GS9izaIZM0YVDufHU/s1600/IMG_7959.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Upon our tour time at 12:30pm, we were greeted by our personal tour guide, Isabella. Isabella was a delightful guide. She was warm and friendly, and was very knowledgeable about the artworks in the museum. The tour commenced immediately. While the Vatican was bustling with tour groups and activity, we managed to find a spot within each one of the exhibits to fully take in the sights and sounds.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrg0oW7Xfg1Od7CleeQnh2p_GIZlanYF-oxxNS42k-gl_yJ8G7G415cT1HBJQ_8VBYDgArWLlW9vWtDBSHW_5U0TQGxLhuBkYazokv1bvEtKFzNn_a_T9rSVkvumrL5HJzmO1jhU1-w-c/s1600/IMG_8073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrg0oW7Xfg1Od7CleeQnh2p_GIZlanYF-oxxNS42k-gl_yJ8G7G415cT1HBJQ_8VBYDgArWLlW9vWtDBSHW_5U0TQGxLhuBkYazokv1bvEtKFzNn_a_T9rSVkvumrL5HJzmO1jhU1-w-c/s1600/IMG_8073.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6iNktGFHvJGVQ6Gtj2H8b-RuMa_w0bd4Blb9ECv6lYjJF7SZDL5mQu3mSyP6bVvAfRDE3uXgLj8qvimTiYIEzRY3e_p4BDVh7isTWFD9af9ci5qpfeVmuU8pQNVGGa4jwRc6pxWczx8/s1600/IMG_8352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6iNktGFHvJGVQ6Gtj2H8b-RuMa_w0bd4Blb9ECv6lYjJF7SZDL5mQu3mSyP6bVvAfRDE3uXgLj8qvimTiYIEzRY3e_p4BDVh7isTWFD9af9ci5qpfeVmuU8pQNVGGa4jwRc6pxWczx8/s1600/IMG_8352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabSipIpkxV-PamwuXMtrIygpvUXB3zyecSFQ3Dx35pyXPdi62avlNSdlkeY4eKRvZP8FYVF0wMcIdtdiPn2MbZ-2DDSgZoVWUdUSrEea89j1dPLXD8kHoiFY2DWI5y89OufPaazhekkM/s1600/E2331C03-A32B-4AD3-B50D-3B5051F2A639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabSipIpkxV-PamwuXMtrIygpvUXB3zyecSFQ3Dx35pyXPdi62avlNSdlkeY4eKRvZP8FYVF0wMcIdtdiPn2MbZ-2DDSgZoVWUdUSrEea89j1dPLXD8kHoiFY2DWI5y89OufPaazhekkM/s1600/E2331C03-A32B-4AD3-B50D-3B5051F2A639.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSsOQvm9U5Y_PJbc8TB01k0EsfHKEQUH2O2ZnLtbvxkBxV50utVRSqswsg5jSg_eDXkQvbx92dqAlSO8OOatckVxYJIbiXbVjGvTxDF4f6xgKrxjwSQRJzqWLiLFrcpe-fjxudnvPx0U/s1600/09C80A56-D18E-4606-97F8-0897391AABD3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSsOQvm9U5Y_PJbc8TB01k0EsfHKEQUH2O2ZnLtbvxkBxV50utVRSqswsg5jSg_eDXkQvbx92dqAlSO8OOatckVxYJIbiXbVjGvTxDF4f6xgKrxjwSQRJzqWLiLFrcpe-fjxudnvPx0U/s1600/09C80A56-D18E-4606-97F8-0897391AABD3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33uloG99eFgUeAD3QCYT7TUIMml0uxoT91OKPfobGd6wewXjzyqHw_sfrsW_pEfpMwr0VoeE8EUK-WO59KElzqdR5YXC4s4Q4KujWwlGniT6KWvBKH_-Oqbsx4utKIyX9lyPKX7yyFTk/s1600/Snapseed+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33uloG99eFgUeAD3QCYT7TUIMml0uxoT91OKPfobGd6wewXjzyqHw_sfrsW_pEfpMwr0VoeE8EUK-WO59KElzqdR5YXC4s4Q4KujWwlGniT6KWvBKH_-Oqbsx4utKIyX9lyPKX7yyFTk/s1600/Snapseed+10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hbvnCjTznLLwvyuIOxZpX90ZdsrnkjrifWTyqmfWQAcXwLWKwpivQNETAGEqisa5qyxxFQesisOokqHVbhaxX4s6f5pkYo2q2-LvsN7L3uV0Bf-UjqwzUXRYr5gbYuu96qKocMvwmOA/s1600/IMG_8402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1080" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hbvnCjTznLLwvyuIOxZpX90ZdsrnkjrifWTyqmfWQAcXwLWKwpivQNETAGEqisa5qyxxFQesisOokqHVbhaxX4s6f5pkYo2q2-LvsN7L3uV0Bf-UjqwzUXRYr5gbYuu96qKocMvwmOA/s1600/IMG_8402.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The tour lasted roughly 2 hours, with enough time for Isabella to explain the different pieces and answer our questions. I had enough time to take photos, and felt that the timing of the tour was perfect. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZclC7sCsXJPTH4Dfcr0DDp7-dywL-FWiYakw5I259s-ZmOHo6M2BiK78bk6wWeEf1EFxTzsCcZMNbEGdsfcpoUQuITIbj0AlwSxF_z_fvtTPMLZjrJpJz1NzNPvEN9CryEtawXdSfT0/s1600/IMG_8400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZclC7sCsXJPTH4Dfcr0DDp7-dywL-FWiYakw5I259s-ZmOHo6M2BiK78bk6wWeEf1EFxTzsCcZMNbEGdsfcpoUQuITIbj0AlwSxF_z_fvtTPMLZjrJpJz1NzNPvEN9CryEtawXdSfT0/s1600/IMG_8400.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIecWW_3emc09zDSkh4YY_a8FY2Y2l3IWeGX1HANQLBtkJFIkgvD9tB5FzO2fifmPww31Qwz3sbqvAwu45XTBblAiP_ZJF9Yt6ihFVNi8nwSrZZ8mCCV-u7JmkuZwil6rwC1TyyR-1qnw/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1081" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIecWW_3emc09zDSkh4YY_a8FY2Y2l3IWeGX1HANQLBtkJFIkgvD9tB5FzO2fifmPww31Qwz3sbqvAwu45XTBblAiP_ZJF9Yt6ihFVNi8nwSrZZ8mCCV-u7JmkuZwil6rwC1TyyR-1qnw/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD8wjO5Wc4Au4Ou8S6E9XVheLlkqu6j2yQyzQAFJsbxbK5iLjSUPneQjDN7v0pFT20PTkYIaplyecg5xkeoHJGdDwdWSIYz_2a1Zrh39cA8_ZOyJ4NaZCeQsUMZh7hyfQob3w_UagaVY/s1600/C0E4E7CF-BDFA-40CA-A16B-2BF61DAA8E30.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD8wjO5Wc4Au4Ou8S6E9XVheLlkqu6j2yQyzQAFJsbxbK5iLjSUPneQjDN7v0pFT20PTkYIaplyecg5xkeoHJGdDwdWSIYz_2a1Zrh39cA8_ZOyJ4NaZCeQsUMZh7hyfQob3w_UagaVY/s1600/C0E4E7CF-BDFA-40CA-A16B-2BF61DAA8E30.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My two favorite rooms of the tour was the <a href="http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/stanze-di-raffaello/stanza-della-segnatura.html">Room of Segnatura </a>painted by Raphael, and the frescoes of the <a href="http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/cappella-sistina.html">Sistine Chapel</a> painted by Michelangelo. Up until our trip, I knew very little about the two artists. During the tour, I couldn’t help but find intrigue at their paintings and their seemingly competitive rivalry. I loved that fact that while both talented men were very competitive in nature, that Raphael had a great respect for Michelangelo, even including a portrait of himself in one of his murals in the Vatican.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIuBa8FYM_f8RSXeqDUZ_rCYIPBKeOBAe1e0aWJZDpuQyj8Xp9M7pPXripJpFD3FXr3pRQ629bzBpP9adEf5TFOqTvuZMmdugvjFIRbAD8HfCV87A4W4g2VC7jH4IBRNrNr9Db_gDpCg/s1600/Snapseed+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIuBa8FYM_f8RSXeqDUZ_rCYIPBKeOBAe1e0aWJZDpuQyj8Xp9M7pPXripJpFD3FXr3pRQ629bzBpP9adEf5TFOqTvuZMmdugvjFIRbAD8HfCV87A4W4g2VC7jH4IBRNrNr9Db_gDpCg/s1600/Snapseed+11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Room of the Fire in Borgo fresco painting by Raphael.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the end of the tour, Isabella led our family to the Sistine Chapel where we were left to explore the rest of the Vatican on our own. My brother and I stayed inside the chapel for maybe 10 minutes, taking in the beauty and awe of Michelangelo’s masterpiece. This is where we lost our parents.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Not knowing whether they exited to the left side to continue viewing the museum exhibits or exited right towards <a href="http://www.vaticanstate.va/content/vaticanstate/en/monumenti/basilica-di-s-pietro.html">St. Peter’s Basilica</a>, we had some tough decisions to make. Without having a means to contact them, we decided to continue through the museum to see if we’d have any luck. Sure enough, my brother found them about 10-minutes later through a window on our way to the restroom. Once reunited, we explored all of the exhibits in the museum one last time before ending our day at St. Peter’s Basilica.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBqeCSZndqP6jPagqyXkSEXTFQceeoIQgLnfvliY2aZOPtmo-W_wGmSqW2UvbSkmLwsmjEFlNwxVsvEN0CRDoB0RH_U-FH_LYtvMIP1ar5ADoSCLuTRCPRovk7apJE3tnreZs5EMcDKo/s1600/350964AC-48B4-42EF-A09C-248CD92367BF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBqeCSZndqP6jPagqyXkSEXTFQceeoIQgLnfvliY2aZOPtmo-W_wGmSqW2UvbSkmLwsmjEFlNwxVsvEN0CRDoB0RH_U-FH_LYtvMIP1ar5ADoSCLuTRCPRovk7apJE3tnreZs5EMcDKo/s1600/350964AC-48B4-42EF-A09C-248CD92367BF.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR3q46CYsjjMNSUMqT7N0ZBmlasON1nkaYTXG9B_wGaDEPJkwPiqBuGa23g49KE3XtXxovtJspd89KgAgEVrFWcVOGFV5HxwGl3RqzPBZtEZ9doiqMNY_a-Ntsq-Of6o-7BJO6wIdhoQ/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR3q46CYsjjMNSUMqT7N0ZBmlasON1nkaYTXG9B_wGaDEPJkwPiqBuGa23g49KE3XtXxovtJspd89KgAgEVrFWcVOGFV5HxwGl3RqzPBZtEZ9doiqMNY_a-Ntsq-Of6o-7BJO6wIdhoQ/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC05gWtloNAreI5KxBYN8lu6MYSPNiYdo_-kXRGJq3pHDB-5C8oqZmjDqa0I9cri5y1TX3ONxm1ytJwc_YQlBepyWL8DYl6gj9Vtzzjf2VznippT4WnHVfFU4BRCt71jZHoxJfmNEV1hM/s1600/IMG_9275+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1080" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC05gWtloNAreI5KxBYN8lu6MYSPNiYdo_-kXRGJq3pHDB-5C8oqZmjDqa0I9cri5y1TX3ONxm1ytJwc_YQlBepyWL8DYl6gj9Vtzzjf2VznippT4WnHVfFU4BRCt71jZHoxJfmNEV1hM/s1600/IMG_9275+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NTXjZsG7S9BYjSVQKf7QiNIxaqflSLYgc-86EWaNWAFpTN4SgsUp0Lqr0_aYMAOhxvyeoxH59RpAVDms7BV3Vp9dzdlpl-RCpEvLdkmuOWqD6lk2tyejHJlO7DquWoCmkHUbXcIjSVw/s1600/IMG_8404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NTXjZsG7S9BYjSVQKf7QiNIxaqflSLYgc-86EWaNWAFpTN4SgsUp0Lqr0_aYMAOhxvyeoxH59RpAVDms7BV3Vp9dzdlpl-RCpEvLdkmuOWqD6lk2tyejHJlO7DquWoCmkHUbXcIjSVw/s1600/IMG_8404.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In comparison to the romantic and often cheerful art of the Vatican museums, St. Peter’s Basilica had a more solemn mood to it. Opulent and extremely large, it was dimly lit inside. There we saw the final resting place of several popes, the alter place where St. Peter was buried, and had the opportunity to explore the different corners of the basilica. Once the basilica closed, we went outside to witness the entire square set up for the upcoming Easter mass. We also had an opportunity to see the Swiss guards at their post in full uniform. It was truly a surreal experience to see the Vatican from the outside and the statue of St. Peter holding the keys. We got to watch the sunset behind the basilica which was really special.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiElXHz8WzW7yMYHNR8KP-aw1wJRdvlJGuc3SXxukIip-4ScNuIOS-LFrsGCd-5QjEgWyZSdnEuF2ilxiZaPCFr41ByH9FapvGvJP7au3w4kyO3Ym0PfRVofS7GdS26v4EJRoiSaFoa4/s1600/5E5E6232-35EF-4E72-89A3-5136ED6C8C71.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiElXHz8WzW7yMYHNR8KP-aw1wJRdvlJGuc3SXxukIip-4ScNuIOS-LFrsGCd-5QjEgWyZSdnEuF2ilxiZaPCFr41ByH9FapvGvJP7au3w4kyO3Ym0PfRVofS7GdS26v4EJRoiSaFoa4/s1600/5E5E6232-35EF-4E72-89A3-5136ED6C8C71.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHgiEpPiI2flz9c_VXLIQLuZB91hNQ4t4KV-JsLUYOsRqoyV5ckpfp3Q4yoCicsvuNCnB9tc4370qGrNvAqboYQkHIGvan-04eQLfz5t0rSl8jIAz_sdNtx_CLHFe4PWdwfM-EFwj2us/s1600/IMG_8401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1080" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHgiEpPiI2flz9c_VXLIQLuZB91hNQ4t4KV-JsLUYOsRqoyV5ckpfp3Q4yoCicsvuNCnB9tc4370qGrNvAqboYQkHIGvan-04eQLfz5t0rSl8jIAz_sdNtx_CLHFe4PWdwfM-EFwj2us/s1600/IMG_8401.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFv8lW9O3UwWmGULdsG8uFylpTG4a44eQAbnvO82WzflE51kOG1aTQ7TkKpy_coFj8teBUidc71UqbXFX-RZ9jmnfsUdEV-vaVOyz9gjxy70zdbKndPGZ2ZVhRLzXygJVcPZRoShovNk/s1600/IMG_9046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFv8lW9O3UwWmGULdsG8uFylpTG4a44eQAbnvO82WzflE51kOG1aTQ7TkKpy_coFj8teBUidc71UqbXFX-RZ9jmnfsUdEV-vaVOyz9gjxy70zdbKndPGZ2ZVhRLzXygJVcPZRoShovNk/s1600/IMG_9046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BI1pwUL-1ZNeLbMwZDrrBu04Pl5tKTWzwM1SvB2KqAiudKe0cSvbV6RXlRnF-AIbcw4KdSSvvzDaXyeqjrScnZn5qB9Alt7gurLHf_kQ8FQQfKUt4QdfCh1sKYSJ3E3s-TTwD88BNkM/s1600/IMG_9048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BI1pwUL-1ZNeLbMwZDrrBu04Pl5tKTWzwM1SvB2KqAiudKe0cSvbV6RXlRnF-AIbcw4KdSSvvzDaXyeqjrScnZn5qB9Alt7gurLHf_kQ8FQQfKUt4QdfCh1sKYSJ3E3s-TTwD88BNkM/s1600/IMG_9048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTamFION1PPXcU77v_2VIdWPzNsuQizKgif9Eyki5MRNvStXkMiqAZYc_weB28qkKCaObyCiZ1X_7n4-jgIRDJp3hAaRM4t1CLYbHI8g4MIPO0Yn-c2Q949QDOaezuX9nqeKNG42axfg/s1600/IMG_9047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTamFION1PPXcU77v_2VIdWPzNsuQizKgif9Eyki5MRNvStXkMiqAZYc_weB28qkKCaObyCiZ1X_7n4-jgIRDJp3hAaRM4t1CLYbHI8g4MIPO0Yn-c2Q949QDOaezuX9nqeKNG42axfg/s1600/IMG_9047.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once we headed back into the city, it was time to eat dinner. We decided upon Alessio, a popular and safe choice. There, we dined on artichoke hearts, thick noodle spaghetti, seared sea bass, and steak. After dinner, it was time to retreat to our hotel. It was another great day in the books.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 2:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We started out our morning with a morning walk to <a href="http://www.anticocaffegreco.eu/">Antico Ca<span style="font-family: inherit;">ff<span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.87);">è</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.87); font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 24px;"> </span>Greco</a>, a historic and popular café in Rome. It first opened in 1760, and is known for famous visitors which included poets Keats and Shelley. There, we enjoyed Americanos and Cappuccinos as well as pastries on the go. My parents enjoyed a warm apple tart, my brother enjoyed a prosciutto sandwich, and I had a giant pistachio cannoli (so good).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNyGz5FsxhFdfsni0XOE6KWI1xyunwsFShrboEcQqkTCw_y-jCcanjT0btaouBMNnNTX_fFhk4yZB-wXoJiqjN2MjmsY4GYTjI1znUbJyXBrNpQwpElMQvPq9spmxit8AW23MrSUwGPW4/s1600/IMG_9049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNyGz5FsxhFdfsni0XOE6KWI1xyunwsFShrboEcQqkTCw_y-jCcanjT0btaouBMNnNTX_fFhk4yZB-wXoJiqjN2MjmsY4GYTjI1znUbJyXBrNpQwpElMQvPq9spmxit8AW23MrSUwGPW4/s1600/IMG_9049.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ6RnvsIMvlq3kZoxiVzsGuXoi7ool5eeUgmJx0ZRHk4yFD3uj-6QTUfVmSbmDeR3nzjZrFHN2ABWCz-NsQEP41muWKDns9rF3KJcxsXawgsncmg4fAZuW41keBZzf_hq2_aj4EEV0Bs/s1600/IMG_9050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ6RnvsIMvlq3kZoxiVzsGuXoi7ool5eeUgmJx0ZRHk4yFD3uj-6QTUfVmSbmDeR3nzjZrFHN2ABWCz-NsQEP41muWKDns9rF3KJcxsXawgsncmg4fAZuW41keBZzf_hq2_aj4EEV0Bs/s1600/IMG_9050.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi216WUoIMOCgfUZsNPeQ8UCSUEsXlFKq_QEi6P-GWGka9DWj8o8A2nKJWxer5nFTftWPEiMh1Cu1x0OgNbZzAPpcPTMJ5zp8Ytsm2sQH0_q6ZxlYPZP-P4GGnGn_BGWcNXySZx9LIpE64/s1600/IMG_9051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi216WUoIMOCgfUZsNPeQ8UCSUEsXlFKq_QEi6P-GWGka9DWj8o8A2nKJWxer5nFTftWPEiMh1Cu1x0OgNbZzAPpcPTMJ5zp8Ytsm2sQH0_q6ZxlYPZP-P4GGnGn_BGWcNXySZx9LIpE64/s1600/IMG_9051.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHwW6F9KWTRkzCjGQmKzH4x6i1zbQKV9BhbihWMNas8awWND5q-umxADN5EPRyRlnPQaSeBT8oOa4O8p_uzSmYkmg9eR8qWdXqRKAIYs1b88jOi-HD4rbOQxrsXkoMuFL3tfou7lwRpU/s1600/IMG_9052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1193" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHwW6F9KWTRkzCjGQmKzH4x6i1zbQKV9BhbihWMNas8awWND5q-umxADN5EPRyRlnPQaSeBT8oOa4O8p_uzSmYkmg9eR8qWdXqRKAIYs1b88jOi-HD4rbOQxrsXkoMuFL3tfou7lwRpU/s1600/IMG_9052.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHKxvBGXTNjsqF86zeizxfSgmZFbYvjd5qSbn8KkUeCuyGTbbAvwURgqXImT2cJ75DiCetiRtEJ_W-gZ4NUhpcWEGSfmPnKjm2Vq5o-SBydHAqQDYHe3p6gfiFSfxkdUIqYRltezxBpA/s1600/IMG_8471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHKxvBGXTNjsqF86zeizxfSgmZFbYvjd5qSbn8KkUeCuyGTbbAvwURgqXImT2cJ75DiCetiRtEJ_W-gZ4NUhpcWEGSfmPnKjm2Vq5o-SBydHAqQDYHe3p6gfiFSfxkdUIqYRltezxBpA/s1600/IMG_8471.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From there, we made our way to the famous <a href="https://www.rome.net/piazza-di-spagna">Piazza di Spagna</a> (Spanish Steps), then to the Pantheon, followed by the Trevi Fountain. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrkw2_HrDIecwlKLf13fHAwnTejOf-xzqmE50iT8IqGJeV65bqPv09x04M51FK0UIz3ceSzN4l3oYNuJRMbjgwP3UXRsPlXpIPsHZVp0W-zFqg_lgbpOwfiHpcZhkPirmj238cw1oi_U/s1600/IMG_8505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrkw2_HrDIecwlKLf13fHAwnTejOf-xzqmE50iT8IqGJeV65bqPv09x04M51FK0UIz3ceSzN4l3oYNuJRMbjgwP3UXRsPlXpIPsHZVp0W-zFqg_lgbpOwfiHpcZhkPirmj238cw1oi_U/s1600/IMG_8505.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The <a href="http://www.trevifountain.net/">Trevi Fountain</a> by far was the most crowded area we had encountered that day, with many visitors wanting to get an up close view of the fountain. In comparison to the grandeur of the Vatican a day before, these sights were not as awe worthy in my opinion.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOg_616f-SoP2CshM5C3f7jyDLaQRNWs3ExIc9kh1nCQAuPS4yquO1XnZI13XRyeD6GbJRqunHGKOWNNaJVQEtXgPHojcpIwIg8jPv5W_AH4Ieov1LSOwwM5mAnAh8csWpitsSZ_iaNcQ/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOg_616f-SoP2CshM5C3f7jyDLaQRNWs3ExIc9kh1nCQAuPS4yquO1XnZI13XRyeD6GbJRqunHGKOWNNaJVQEtXgPHojcpIwIg8jPv5W_AH4Ieov1LSOwwM5mAnAh8csWpitsSZ_iaNcQ/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next, we made our way to the <a href="https://www.coopculture.it/en/colosseo-e-shop.cfm">Colloseum</a> (also known as the Coliseum or Colloseo). It was as big as I imagined it to be. Lined with tourists and tour services, we around around 1:45pm to check out the sights. Despite missing our tour, we enjoyed ourselves on the second story of the building. Being able to sit down and people watch for a bit was quite relaxing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJhCJFU7MjSNhcpHOiSo68m8sGAnlQrs03qQEg-M-lONFggaROs_XLOYaqrYVECIBem9eDJeux6AA9hxC8CV3YlYfZrJ0Ndtjf0ez4CDtaUBoM7GD2CbFoDeExdgCfiylpjaym7UfkNU/s1600/Snapseed+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJhCJFU7MjSNhcpHOiSo68m8sGAnlQrs03qQEg-M-lONFggaROs_XLOYaqrYVECIBem9eDJeux6AA9hxC8CV3YlYfZrJ0Ndtjf0ez4CDtaUBoM7GD2CbFoDeExdgCfiylpjaym7UfkNU/s1600/Snapseed+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gfyc9TWAELDLXgpBfIg_kHy1ixIGJmAt6Pq_wQO045fL2bIyE85_1GAMxYBwdJhp7k5LfCuvMuV_Ukq8tewOhB-MokhHysopQa7wbRSKNAJkFoCuAEStswaePKAx95Vy0dmrIekan1g/s1600/Snapseed+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9gfyc9TWAELDLXgpBfIg_kHy1ixIGJmAt6Pq_wQO045fL2bIyE85_1GAMxYBwdJhp7k5LfCuvMuV_Ukq8tewOhB-MokhHysopQa7wbRSKNAJkFoCuAEStswaePKAx95Vy0dmrIekan1g/s1600/Snapseed+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk62iFogrsxzckWMUNSvSRT0wyeH1i6Qu83Vj2PTrmrsCwUnGWSgmx6HyzZ_iJxzR4qcUcf8oZpWZJtZ9gZopTx1ziYUBMiw2UOXl_lGzihWQw4U_6YkPgRr5h40IqNhDp1PsUaJ-OzjY/s1600/IMG_8677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1080" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk62iFogrsxzckWMUNSvSRT0wyeH1i6Qu83Vj2PTrmrsCwUnGWSgmx6HyzZ_iJxzR4qcUcf8oZpWZJtZ9gZopTx1ziYUBMiw2UOXl_lGzihWQw4U_6YkPgRr5h40IqNhDp1PsUaJ-OzjY/s1600/IMG_8677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At about 3:10pm, we were led by a private tour guide to the top levels of the Colloseum. I was extremely excited to climb the top tier, having heard that it had recently opened (November 2017). The view was nothing short of a spectacle. Despite being afraid of heights, I thoroughly enjoyed the view down into the area and felt at peace in the quiet area. Since only a limited number of people were granted access into the top tiers, there were no mass crowds lining the observatory railings of the level. Thus, making this the perfect opportunity to take some aerial pictures of the Colloseum. Once our visit was over, we took a quick peek at the ground level of the Coliseum before heading out.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAUK10qNgmr71gDGXIVqw4eJseTAPJgY6GlsbdeVHKAOK_6UuRpq4rHmTWSPzgC4VdmZEvBrHVnomSGKQajzNQ56Gu80nwjG8vEX51rjqljf_saDDMjngjh90VFO0zg4ZkmO8FgDuUzg/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAUK10qNgmr71gDGXIVqw4eJseTAPJgY6GlsbdeVHKAOK_6UuRpq4rHmTWSPzgC4VdmZEvBrHVnomSGKQajzNQ56Gu80nwjG8vEX51rjqljf_saDDMjngjh90VFO0zg4ZkmO8FgDuUzg/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvuJEU6AnxyfxfIShOq6YUfD31sbJa1c-qQCgmBwkOouPb1m71wssiv4d_s1At69qaAsp9fyzG8EdVu53BgHZkCyTmJqT61a6uUSoTUU7eWqfTW4xzCWqdeZe51n6RE4PfM506-vTNpOk/s1600/IMG_8621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvuJEU6AnxyfxfIShOq6YUfD31sbJa1c-qQCgmBwkOouPb1m71wssiv4d_s1At69qaAsp9fyzG8EdVu53BgHZkCyTmJqT61a6uUSoTUU7eWqfTW4xzCWqdeZe51n6RE4PfM506-vTNpOk/s1600/IMG_8621.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKSgS3eZUbBEvs9y9_wZ291ifBRHF_Coiu20H2gnBi6d1CnOUh6ohNMBecXMAOJYXgrwQ1WNPDhZE1XTm6RqkyOWj9OxTcCsdMZddm9C7gwPxSTPj2eGRW3HujASZzylSXu9p8hGsXFc/s1600/Snapseed+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKSgS3eZUbBEvs9y9_wZ291ifBRHF_Coiu20H2gnBi6d1CnOUh6ohNMBecXMAOJYXgrwQ1WNPDhZE1XTm6RqkyOWj9OxTcCsdMZddm9C7gwPxSTPj2eGRW3HujASZzylSXu9p8hGsXFc/s1600/Snapseed+14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5WB9C9mBXfnk66EJmtdFv64m2cayNy9RR0TINFjt5PYZnGDY4Xhw1caW4Bs5saGFwXwka6i4Cq0LdqDA-U_2r1h6OeKrxUKO3DodW-BF_klyzVXni_kVgLRNQP65LYgwQ4yBpvEDEH4/s1600/Snapseed+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5WB9C9mBXfnk66EJmtdFv64m2cayNy9RR0TINFjt5PYZnGDY4Xhw1caW4Bs5saGFwXwka6i4Cq0LdqDA-U_2r1h6OeKrxUKO3DodW-BF_klyzVXni_kVgLRNQP65LYgwQ4yBpvEDEH4/s1600/Snapseed+15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vZeuFr9Da3NeI3qGZMTNKKzjwqkJ6LZcJQ4L0HfMz98dfIGgRR8kT97bDknvAtZbgArGRwW7OziBvZTue-AOv8XIOTV_Xfka1lc0_z9-KwIVpAVnFHhecGEryy0nBrx69tmftIy5X_I/s1600/Snapseed+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vZeuFr9Da3NeI3qGZMTNKKzjwqkJ6LZcJQ4L0HfMz98dfIGgRR8kT97bDknvAtZbgArGRwW7OziBvZTue-AOv8XIOTV_Xfka1lc0_z9-KwIVpAVnFHhecGEryy0nBrx69tmftIy5X_I/s1600/Snapseed+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfidh_osgI77wKD0n_VC2bQMwYhA4ytIHyEkmOpdkEGKHH4yAl5SZnl4942hk2pRxZFrtvM0eUWHkOooojczVCgsIPv8IV3fT6msR_T-Vx1WY_4-khfPylgoIfyr3S_8iCQLqnh2ahh4/s1600/Snapseed+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfidh_osgI77wKD0n_VC2bQMwYhA4ytIHyEkmOpdkEGKHH4yAl5SZnl4942hk2pRxZFrtvM0eUWHkOooojczVCgsIPv8IV3fT6msR_T-Vx1WY_4-khfPylgoIfyr3S_8iCQLqnh2ahh4/s1600/Snapseed+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPEI3eB4lB7kb3BGJbnnKNllK4myguWtjDLg-pHZtB9qHznGBEUSZF7j-pERf8jlL1g3DpwiRFcGwmHKTX5LBAQgYgjOeHNAjCieBxdtNLHVJ_7Yg37WFtFpjCHZJZ2lBmOTDdP-y1oY/s1600/Snapseed+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPEI3eB4lB7kb3BGJbnnKNllK4myguWtjDLg-pHZtB9qHznGBEUSZF7j-pERf8jlL1g3DpwiRFcGwmHKTX5LBAQgYgjOeHNAjCieBxdtNLHVJ_7Yg37WFtFpjCHZJZ2lBmOTDdP-y1oY/s1600/Snapseed+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now comes my favorite part of the day. The visit to the <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-mouth-of-truth">Mouth of Truth</a>. Myth has it that if you place your hand inside of the mouth, that it will bite the hand of the liar. It was featured in my favorite classic film, Roman Holiday, featuring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. It’s a cute romantic comedy film about a reporter who is going undercover to try to get a story about a royal princess. Plot wise, I thought it was a much better film than Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I’ve probably seen the film over a dozen times, and I still love it very much. Although the line to take a photo with the mask was quite long, I managed to get a quick photo of it nonetheless from the corner of the church were it was displayed. It was a great sight to witness to say the least.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2t1X-psat2-Qme1N4GjgFEUdJk5XP61GYI6yPle4y6NvsHeN7gBEP4zRMPkLgh_HpC-yNVfrKuOKiHTJM6X7NS_cQpeadaDEG0gba0mMsypib1CfiG8bbpmSPglfgaF6Ezck93G8e8F0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-04-04+at+1.09.32+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="1120" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2t1X-psat2-Qme1N4GjgFEUdJk5XP61GYI6yPle4y6NvsHeN7gBEP4zRMPkLgh_HpC-yNVfrKuOKiHTJM6X7NS_cQpeadaDEG0gba0mMsypib1CfiG8bbpmSPglfgaF6Ezck93G8e8F0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-04-04+at+1.09.32+AM.png" width="574" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once we wrapped up all of our sightseeing activities, it was time to get dinner. We dined at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187791-d3185400-Reviews-Osteria_da_Fortunata-Rome_Lazio.html">Osteria da Fortunata</a>, which was known for its fresh handmade noodles. Upon arrival, we saw some women through the window kneading out the dough, and forming noodles. There, we dined on spaghetti and ravioli. I hate to say this, but my brother’s spaghetti, bacon, and mushroom spaghetti was probably the best spaghetti dish I had tried in Rome. It was much better than my Ravioli, which was a pretty basic and classic platter. Ironically, we also ran into my brother’s friend at the restaurant which was pretty cool, considering we had separate itineraries.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After dinner, our family grabbed some dessert at <a href="http://www.giolitti.it/en/">Giolitti</a>, a popular gelateria in Italy. At this point, I was pretty bias and picked the Amaretto again. This time, I also ordered, a Bailey’s flavor and Pistachio flavor as well. The cream on top was so good, and I really enjoyed the dark chocolate lined cone. The gelateria even had a Roman Holiday flavor which I thought was really cute!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hwfn2n9StM03gDhhQi9rPR17x8RK09s2aGEaaXX5qF1EcMU6mzPjzDFIlgxPJdZo-AHeVq6we9WFcbGveVAfTLGGDIQb1zzUbdmn3ZRxWmR7Cw1NX11iRbtE2ty3WZ-GC6bYNfCHY2c/s1600/IMG_9053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hwfn2n9StM03gDhhQi9rPR17x8RK09s2aGEaaXX5qF1EcMU6mzPjzDFIlgxPJdZo-AHeVq6we9WFcbGveVAfTLGGDIQb1zzUbdmn3ZRxWmR7Cw1NX11iRbtE2ty3WZ-GC6bYNfCHY2c/s1600/IMG_9053.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1G4pLNm4VWz0QnOhBbdW3JEl5mr0mizPvGgFbFYyJ0tWyshlnTAMCyf1hrj4hVxoU802QJ6zMzkNRqA1U_IDlV9MiV8h5Uw4QOaG04I1OsJjhyphenhypheni3Y_Raj0DkgX7AF8OLXMYl4hFMGrg/s1600/IMG_9125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1G4pLNm4VWz0QnOhBbdW3JEl5mr0mizPvGgFbFYyJ0tWyshlnTAMCyf1hrj4hVxoU802QJ6zMzkNRqA1U_IDlV9MiV8h5Uw4QOaG04I1OsJjhyphenhypheni3Y_Raj0DkgX7AF8OLXMYl4hFMGrg/s1600/IMG_9125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By this point, our family was pretty exhausted, with only 4% battery left on my phone, it was time to get home. Luckily, we had a hotel map handy which helped out a lot. I tried to call an Uber, but at that point, it was just easier to try to walk home. We made it back to our hotel with only 1% battery life to spare. WHAT A RELIEF. By then, we were ready to call it a night. We needed to get our strength up before Naples the next day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thanks for joining me on this adventure. Be sure to stay tuned for the next post: Naples!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to leave me a message on my blog or via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or Twitter at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ciao,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-50696676656536870122018-04-03T00:30:00.001-07:002018-04-03T00:30:25.517-07:00Firenze<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Welcome to Florence. The capital city of Italy's Tuscany region.</div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Early Monday morning, we woke up to board a train from Venice to Florence. A short two hour ride, I managed to squeeze in some Netflix <i>Black Mirror</i> episodes on my iPad. Up until that point, I had never taken a train before. Being prone to motion sickness, I was a little bit nervous about the ride. Nonetheless, the train ride was a smooth and comfortable experience.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a bustling train station in Florence. Having had struggled to drag our luggage on a 20-minute walk on the uneven cobblestone pavement in Venice, I was dreading our walk to our hotel in Florence. Ironically, our hotel was literally right across the street from the train station. After trying to figure out how to get around the construction across the street, we made it safe and sound.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
The hotel was actually a bed and breakfast. Like any first timer, I wasn't sure what to expect. When we arrived, our suite was big, contemporary, clean, and spacious. Despite being across from the train station, the room was quiet.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After unloading our things, it was time for lunch. Being quite new to the area, we weren't sure what to eat. My brother recommended <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1cnp" href="http://www.mercatocentrale.it/en/mercato-centrale-florence/">Mercato Centrale</a></span>, a local food hall close to the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediajrz" href="https://www.museumflorence.com/monuments/1-cathedral">Duomo</a></span>. There, we dined on steak and potatoes, veggie burgers, and some salad. The steak was exceptional: juicy, thick, and flavorful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph2CRDwxlRypdxaha8i83e_pqlQDT2HyjqcxcCu_qjs_Nh67f93UkYIFxnGsCPYju_sQCUcsK9nLPg_LdlI915SZA2k07CsDEA0oFtjn36nJeO63y0-9A6tMPZ-qj8s3pZwNe83A4iKY/s1600/IMG_7870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1480" data-original-width="1184" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph2CRDwxlRypdxaha8i83e_pqlQDT2HyjqcxcCu_qjs_Nh67f93UkYIFxnGsCPYju_sQCUcsK9nLPg_LdlI915SZA2k07CsDEA0oFtjn36nJeO63y0-9A6tMPZ-qj8s3pZwNe83A4iKY/s1600/IMG_7870.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lots of street market vendors in Florence on the way to Mercato Centrale.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Following lunch, we headed to the Duomo. Wow. What a spectacle to see. The cathedral, the dome, the baptistry, and the bell tower were so massive a highly detailed. Up until that point, I had never seen something so grand in my life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4JZwP5bMvJ9fdr1jPQdN7QCZvurK3DqLWKs98j_9HPO5kUUhSmxZQ2gyz1iQfWwxtdsL6Tw_DM2KU5Rm5NLUzuPgpbQqI38hNaloavFYi_0v9VIFkLbAih74a-2yNW52IIEVt6aqRmcQ/s1600/IMG_7708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4JZwP5bMvJ9fdr1jPQdN7QCZvurK3DqLWKs98j_9HPO5kUUhSmxZQ2gyz1iQfWwxtdsL6Tw_DM2KU5Rm5NLUzuPgpbQqI38hNaloavFYi_0v9VIFkLbAih74a-2yNW52IIEVt6aqRmcQ/s1600/IMG_7708.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
First, we headed to the Baptistry, where we were met with an elaborate ceiling painting depicting Heaven and Hell. Personally, I thought that it was a frightening mural to see. The Hell part scared me a bit. The depictions of the unclothed devils were gruesome and frightening with their humanistic physical traits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsooOcgYLBAoh9vPQDga8ODnmXjQtqes5ziMHe9WzPJFVf5z1vj9eMCO2UxZxG3oiM7qadb6lbgRPdiKLdspH6q1r59ebMPwQptCiTIKrLhhT4BQzqs6yM6lhmcH5xMe32DN_Audm_gk/s1600/IMG_7746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsooOcgYLBAoh9vPQDga8ODnmXjQtqes5ziMHe9WzPJFVf5z1vj9eMCO2UxZxG3oiM7qadb6lbgRPdiKLdspH6q1r59ebMPwQptCiTIKrLhhT4BQzqs6yM6lhmcH5xMe32DN_Audm_gk/s1600/IMG_7746.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After the Baptistry, we went to the dome. Having passed through the Cathedral on the way up, we climbed 463 stairs to the very top. It was a very tiring experience. Much more so than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. I don't recommend the climb if you're claustrophobic, have knee problems, or are afraid of heights. Once at the top of the dome, it provided some of the most spectacular city views of Florence. Probably one of the best. I'd probably put it in my top two places to go to the top (next to the Empire State Building in New York City). With the weather sunny and warm, the dome served as the perfect setting to take gorgeous panoramic photos of the city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCA6ZZfa8bVYlNtwAvJrRdXf9840sVXL6gYczjuUs5wC9d-ReOLhwzA6zg_usUchYCBRbdBt0Xbz4b9X76c9qAEfEG43fAbLC28Nv_bywW968rm3607WH8aDPl5xm5FwD2Wkf0HrlL6Wg/s1600/IMG_7821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCA6ZZfa8bVYlNtwAvJrRdXf9840sVXL6gYczjuUs5wC9d-ReOLhwzA6zg_usUchYCBRbdBt0Xbz4b9X76c9qAEfEG43fAbLC28Nv_bywW968rm3607WH8aDPl5xm5FwD2Wkf0HrlL6Wg/s1600/IMG_7821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdMd06FpfNo7envtMmevkKZ2cElsI-kZXhZMDUoguIGxV0sd3fQvRg7MarvBJS65_PHXdEwRciyZ4rjauN8uKghQ7PmydPufUcFPlRVoKeoqB8mxJcNTPxIRSPeqxY9sk72QhnCSkpzJs/s1600/IMG_7821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdMd06FpfNo7envtMmevkKZ2cElsI-kZXhZMDUoguIGxV0sd3fQvRg7MarvBJS65_PHXdEwRciyZ4rjauN8uKghQ7PmydPufUcFPlRVoKeoqB8mxJcNTPxIRSPeqxY9sk72QhnCSkpzJs/s1600/IMG_7821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSlxsu3gtDKrNkephDwt4gV-tRU4bsEdYTmBrURYxXA_iI2ukc6IpAd11cvqtJ2EWRSlg2RyFUFAMYM0Tn_OiMxkwqLXSKcCBEIhwxMJbsCKTKtzUQa2D63PyK6WIbzgscr4Md5vGR7U/s1600/9A86D9DE-E0E9-4513-8EC0-4F9B9557A777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSlxsu3gtDKrNkephDwt4gV-tRU4bsEdYTmBrURYxXA_iI2ukc6IpAd11cvqtJ2EWRSlg2RyFUFAMYM0Tn_OiMxkwqLXSKcCBEIhwxMJbsCKTKtzUQa2D63PyK6WIbzgscr4Md5vGR7U/s1600/9A86D9DE-E0E9-4513-8EC0-4F9B9557A777.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiwEx5BwzVOvF1v2WcDWnHSR9gkoFAVIoPMeTMJFj59APEmCWIyWyg1hA3YLBOoxobtTUy8ng-fzP2DZaXqhCu6pBGxyEzwllsL-B0i_NR4J7Sn9SZ3K8l-dwKxfEQAehBCNqS5F4ReA/s1600/880E6A66-8186-4B30-AE38-8DC68F66B592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiwEx5BwzVOvF1v2WcDWnHSR9gkoFAVIoPMeTMJFj59APEmCWIyWyg1hA3YLBOoxobtTUy8ng-fzP2DZaXqhCu6pBGxyEzwllsL-B0i_NR4J7Sn9SZ3K8l-dwKxfEQAehBCNqS5F4ReA/s1600/880E6A66-8186-4B30-AE38-8DC68F66B592.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvo67XjEic2aC88hi1AeHpG6P0IJFVbcxxEitMO8AgdbnczwHCcJVysrn4bHdvYqiq8zy6g1cR3Wl8VXzGsDqrwHesn9zuyQ3KLFFGgm6tN2ecPVY0baUGhwrIVT95Yxxffbpbgebxdk/s1600/Snapseed+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvo67XjEic2aC88hi1AeHpG6P0IJFVbcxxEitMO8AgdbnczwHCcJVysrn4bHdvYqiq8zy6g1cR3Wl8VXzGsDqrwHesn9zuyQ3KLFFGgm6tN2ecPVY0baUGhwrIVT95Yxxffbpbgebxdk/s1600/Snapseed+25.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmJIZtwsinYfZQ6eIqDBtEbo4U0ts9jpu880ffYouf9fh0QX57CTNjeNXcMsRXrviRw2G95ddoltN7DaxAlwzlEvjzZK5dPLzX3yRXXNjIIIJjtASo_Hl2JV8PNTzc-pPhaROQ6oDoyk/s1600/Snapseed+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmJIZtwsinYfZQ6eIqDBtEbo4U0ts9jpu880ffYouf9fh0QX57CTNjeNXcMsRXrviRw2G95ddoltN7DaxAlwzlEvjzZK5dPLzX3yRXXNjIIIJjtASo_Hl2JV8PNTzc-pPhaROQ6oDoyk/s1600/Snapseed+24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj8Zp4x0qJJLJbgNiz6pTAH3gLokleIkny263l5mSGcwkkCcpVqWHQ0npIxp3PjKY6fKJnS5_KNzlm1vm-FLo63GsO22sdsgGkgfwIHi-e9sM8xJyNjB7hqcrjyjQe2HQmE7ozbGmH54/s1600/923A7AA2-17CF-4560-AA03-7A3412B92BD4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj8Zp4x0qJJLJbgNiz6pTAH3gLokleIkny263l5mSGcwkkCcpVqWHQ0npIxp3PjKY6fKJnS5_KNzlm1vm-FLo63GsO22sdsgGkgfwIHi-e9sM8xJyNjB7hqcrjyjQe2HQmE7ozbGmH54/s1600/923A7AA2-17CF-4560-AA03-7A3412B92BD4.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzE9nsPwGKi41S15alS6gOime0-tH9eAkucXspEtx9xhTT-CC8ymBydJkzvF7M_lkv857CnHPMJmLwN0wjSyvEoQUZS2ZZxnD-W8nUXEpEos8tiRb32IG-r_2cQU88L4vl-ZvUbvL4HY/s1600/189292A0-BDFF-4154-82F9-DD510BA92FB2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzE9nsPwGKi41S15alS6gOime0-tH9eAkucXspEtx9xhTT-CC8ymBydJkzvF7M_lkv857CnHPMJmLwN0wjSyvEoQUZS2ZZxnD-W8nUXEpEos8tiRb32IG-r_2cQU88L4vl-ZvUbvL4HY/s1600/189292A0-BDFF-4154-82F9-DD510BA92FB2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Following our descent from the dome, we grabbed one last peak of the Cathedral before heading to the museum exhibits. One piece of art that really intrigued me was the wooden statue of an aged and penitent <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia19w7" href="http://www.donatello.net/penitent-maddalena.jsp">Mary Magdalene</a></span> by Italian Renaissance sculptor, Donatello. The amount of detail on the statue was incredible to witness. I could feel the solemnity in the sculpture. It was hard to look away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OYOjOBt-_04k1T42wfKQfltcUHyCR3XTYDM59_OUkVKM2mXZZ_eaYikMZ_vWd56xepnC-fbwiXvNtvNu5bNQJUW1CBxTesXh0VPfgjMwdEXPH5B72K5KfgPmOCduYkWNgbPucFhtWtc/s1600/Snapseed+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OYOjOBt-_04k1T42wfKQfltcUHyCR3XTYDM59_OUkVKM2mXZZ_eaYikMZ_vWd56xepnC-fbwiXvNtvNu5bNQJUW1CBxTesXh0VPfgjMwdEXPH5B72K5KfgPmOCduYkWNgbPucFhtWtc/s1600/Snapseed+26.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Since the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries were closed that day, we decided to grab some gelato and take a look at the Michelangelo replica and the statue of Perseus with the head of Medusa in the city square instead.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwvkpqG6dcvwhpkVtX6xqP5cBxhI_1YPiMPDQi84if0QIBXuTCyGpI_BCOh4jqvBT5jymF6Xcqnr-eWUDqbyx6X27rMH0EZcLxwhE5zdznQgiMgQgJn9d4ic6mQpJ3Zl_85ihwdvtHOs/s1600/Snapseed+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwvkpqG6dcvwhpkVtX6xqP5cBxhI_1YPiMPDQi84if0QIBXuTCyGpI_BCOh4jqvBT5jymF6Xcqnr-eWUDqbyx6X27rMH0EZcLxwhE5zdznQgiMgQgJn9d4ic6mQpJ3Zl_85ihwdvtHOs/s1600/Snapseed+28.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPml52PsPdM-f66dUR3rtKkB96VW6Y1lhd6alV_tFdkl-VCIE17n5IevWVsgqZT2PrIbqN5JPc5fVSWJMe56Wf_9GMJtv4LXgZe6qPs4R_AFYDjZHmKAuqAfFlDelKr24Hh81EXq2Lneo/s1600/9AF4C374-78E2-419F-B90D-FBC124641207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPml52PsPdM-f66dUR3rtKkB96VW6Y1lhd6alV_tFdkl-VCIE17n5IevWVsgqZT2PrIbqN5JPc5fVSWJMe56Wf_9GMJtv4LXgZe6qPs4R_AFYDjZHmKAuqAfFlDelKr24Hh81EXq2Lneo/s1600/9AF4C374-78E2-419F-B90D-FBC124641207.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px;">Amaretto and Pistachio gelato from Gelateria Dei Neri. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6d34OJX5X4ulO-oIQq00O8gJBtx9eGcAq2H2zcuJr0lNB7LbhbXm420QYQ7vP3L5kTVJLJcyclm4MKS8v2ryHJczlAtgWd8vaViqSw67RuC6vwnOQ38sToqW8nQbBi2jj3TZkcQlFJY/s1600/Snapseed+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6d34OJX5X4ulO-oIQq00O8gJBtx9eGcAq2H2zcuJr0lNB7LbhbXm420QYQ7vP3L5kTVJLJcyclm4MKS8v2ryHJczlAtgWd8vaViqSw67RuC6vwnOQ38sToqW8nQbBi2jj3TZkcQlFJY/s1600/Snapseed+27.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
A note on the gelato: <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediaick" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187895-d2075392-Reviews-Gelateria_dei_Neri-Florence_Tuscany.html">Gelateria Dei Neri</a></span> had the best Amaretto gelato that I had ever had in Italy. Wow. The cherries were so ripe and the creamy consistency of the gelato was so perfect. My friend recommended Gelateria La Carraia, but we didn't get a chance to make it there on time. I'm definitely going to visit that gelateria on my next visit.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Having spent much of the day sightseeing, we decided to retreat to our bed and breakfast until dinnertime. Around 8:30pm, we headed out to a popular local eatery, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediatoj" href="http://www.trattoriazaza.it/english-menu/">Trattoria Za Za</a></span>. We were roughly seated around 9:45pm, where we dined on lobster spaghetti, steak, seared sea bass, steamed veggies, and wine. The food and the service were wonderful. We left with happy hearts and stomachs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1tPcSGtH0Lr7CXdB-ba_Cm2glwAea11sbYxEr_C-rt28NWakCvQUa4tEF15t-AEcIP9jMtgzTUjNJsYmYN7AgY9SKJFRg6TP_Tkh-ExLaWMwglW68IXwT6c7yJzIf6xoZbKsXI17UKk/s1600/Snapseed+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1tPcSGtH0Lr7CXdB-ba_Cm2glwAea11sbYxEr_C-rt28NWakCvQUa4tEF15t-AEcIP9jMtgzTUjNJsYmYN7AgY9SKJFRg6TP_Tkh-ExLaWMwglW68IXwT6c7yJzIf6xoZbKsXI17UKk/s1600/Snapseed+30.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
With the day already over, we retreated to our bed and breakfast before another train ride to Rome the following day.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
I hope you enjoyed following my adventure to Florence! Please let me know if you have any questions or comments. Feel free to reach out to me via <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediax44" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a></span> or <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediag5m" href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a></span> via <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1xr2" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a></span>.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Stay tuned for my next post: Rome!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Until next time.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Ciao,</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-28838948021343768972018-03-31T23:32:00.000-07:002018-04-01T00:36:50.264-07:00Ciao Venezia!<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 1:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
As much fun as we had in Paris, it was time to bid adieu. We boarded a plane on Saturday morning and arrived in Venice in the mid afternoon. From there, we boarded a water taxi toward Fondamente Nove. Our hotel was a short walk from the dock, but nonetheless, it was a daunting one with cobblestone roads and plenty of stairs to trek through. Sure enough, we made it to our hotel in one piece.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxS8bYyNeAsRMGOIedOaxg6ithCuNI9T_tZBwFSeL-zpbWIf8EZXdeAR4wxzTjuqMSigtzi3ht2Fz5qeA2_J2OEVoSpi3RnO-xY0mV9ZeZEbEckx1BATzH1agA3HUyOBzT2RPJkd6KjSE/s1600/F8A2E92A-3B96-4D75-B656-2F0AB6F7B45A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxS8bYyNeAsRMGOIedOaxg6ithCuNI9T_tZBwFSeL-zpbWIf8EZXdeAR4wxzTjuqMSigtzi3ht2Fz5qeA2_J2OEVoSpi3RnO-xY0mV9ZeZEbEckx1BATzH1agA3HUyOBzT2RPJkd6KjSE/s1600/F8A2E92A-3B96-4D75-B656-2F0AB6F7B45A.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Riding the water bus over to Venice.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHlJSmJ2L7p0KgTMJ5-nuNX8V1GUVMR9SDUxq2_sXax6pqOJ2qu_o_z9rOHeJuMKb79tD4mHSGKq3A1h-Y-N2KFlhOp1jinwbek_ISwClw64BJPboiCngL5YJy8valBGTOgWXnbkdYx9o/s1600/Snapseed+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHlJSmJ2L7p0KgTMJ5-nuNX8V1GUVMR9SDUxq2_sXax6pqOJ2qu_o_z9rOHeJuMKb79tD4mHSGKq3A1h-Y-N2KFlhOp1jinwbek_ISwClw64BJPboiCngL5YJy8valBGTOgWXnbkdYx9o/s1600/Snapseed+3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">First glimpse on the island of Venice.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
First thing's first: Food! </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After non-intentionally fasting for the first half of the day, it was time to eat. After scrolling through a couple of my friend's recommendations and arriving to these busy restaurants, we were feeling pretty hungry and out of immediate options. Nearly giving up, we were ready to pick the first available option. My mom somehow came across <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187870-d10633692-Reviews-Farini-Venice_Veneto.html">Farini</a>, a local (and from what we would later learn on a second visit...an undoubtably popular) pizzeria in Venice. We didn't know it at the time because we had come during an odd hour, but we'd soon find out the popularity the next day when we tried to come back!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
On our first night there, we ordered an eggplant parmigiano, a house salad, and a couple slices of pizza. Wow. The pizza did not disappoint. The crust was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Everything was made to taste, and we were so impressed. It was the best pizza we had ever had in Italy...I mean it. We had pizza in different cities, but I will say it now that Venice had the best pizza in Italy. Seriously. If you're ever in Venice, go check it out and let me know what you think!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After dinner, we got some gelato at Grom and bought some cookies and sweets at a local shop before retreating back to our hotel. I would later from my friend that there was in fact, an even better gelato shop on the island. More about that in just a little bit.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Pending my brother's arrival to Venice, my parents decided to stay back at the hotel and wait from him. I ended up heading out with a friend to explore the city. We walked around the city where we'd share stories and stop by some popular attractions in Venice. I'm pretty sure I walked across the Rialto Bridge at least half a dozen times that night, which I think is hilarious. I loved seeing St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) with no tourists. It was really peaceful and calm. Overall, an evening walk around the city was a nice way to spend Saturday evening.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 2:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
We got up early to head over to St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) for Palm Sunday. After spending much of the morning there, we headed back to Farini for lunch. The line was literally out of the door. We somehow managed to grab a table, which was nothing short of a pizza miracle.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitoYTpa3jcpUuGaKOPSZp4JR-LLX2aExTyBPqM4lwUAMcm_hd6NGk90ZC0qseXMoRQcCCmXVRXpg_qnkHNI7CRTJS5Jt06kt0jX0A7TueB2XHB9AY7xzHywRzgUY9uGFm2fOOrNNAaSrM/s1600/BC3A4E24-C5F6-4354-89CD-B9B536ECC942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="987" data-original-width="1516" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitoYTpa3jcpUuGaKOPSZp4JR-LLX2aExTyBPqM4lwUAMcm_hd6NGk90ZC0qseXMoRQcCCmXVRXpg_qnkHNI7CRTJS5Jt06kt0jX0A7TueB2XHB9AY7xzHywRzgUY9uGFm2fOOrNNAaSrM/s1600/BC3A4E24-C5F6-4354-89CD-B9B536ECC942.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Following lunch, we grabbed some candy at a local shop. They had the best cappuccino chocolate covered almonds I've ever had. No other candy on the island compares! With our hands fully loaded with sweets, we were well on our way to visit the giant hands sculpture on the Venice Grand Canal. It was so surreal to see Lorenzo Quinn's artwork in person. For those of you not familiar with the piece, it is a giant white sculpture of hands rising out from the Venice Grand Canal. The artwork was created to illustrate effects of climate change. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoiXUNF1nmn2TSdquoWxq_SEedt7p4PEZAXKVM6PczYUZFL6QzjO9Uv2y5uWX-cHK6qSnqnKo6tH8aCIGUeJouGJKIOuu1256uRlkDo8pagBs-sOc8zv9oo9gOkk77hoUiQ8CKqVrtO0/s1600/1220B100-BF54-48B3-94CC-5F3CECA05DB3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoiXUNF1nmn2TSdquoWxq_SEedt7p4PEZAXKVM6PczYUZFL6QzjO9Uv2y5uWX-cHK6qSnqnKo6tH8aCIGUeJouGJKIOuu1256uRlkDo8pagBs-sOc8zv9oo9gOkk77hoUiQ8CKqVrtO0/s1600/1220B100-BF54-48B3-94CC-5F3CECA05DB3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
As somebody who was highly involved in the UNEP and UNDP committees when I was in the Model United Nations program in high school, this is a really important piece of artwork for me. For three years, I had studied and represented different countries in regards to climate change. I'll spare you the details, but I do believe that climate change and global warming is very real.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYnfVtS-O7QKynRXWVrXCm44WGVltmMIb9-c5pQXPRSS3a5IkKgtuhyphenhyphen7UZfvP6EublnzUX1WLEguudg6jz7JkSd0KMSG2bLO3cNiwTGxHQSitRw8RSvz5ndssHXcEbPDuqkoqOfjw7fg/s1600/09D6903D-4068-4066-8F90-8541A454734F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYnfVtS-O7QKynRXWVrXCm44WGVltmMIb9-c5pQXPRSS3a5IkKgtuhyphenhyphen7UZfvP6EublnzUX1WLEguudg6jz7JkSd0KMSG2bLO3cNiwTGxHQSitRw8RSvz5ndssHXcEbPDuqkoqOfjw7fg/s1600/09D6903D-4068-4066-8F90-8541A454734F.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5FmyBqmsWAqY90T-zJ9YX8qiZkfs61nUpmrIZzxbNOAkKLxjOP_0f-Es06-MsfObw-vjNi02luB_HHNuto9g0VBewXLcpOTVekqh_wIyywwL_Fj2iHhTw2jM-Ir7ephg0WykkksyoAw/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5FmyBqmsWAqY90T-zJ9YX8qiZkfs61nUpmrIZzxbNOAkKLxjOP_0f-Es06-MsfObw-vjNi02luB_HHNuto9g0VBewXLcpOTVekqh_wIyywwL_Fj2iHhTw2jM-Ir7ephg0WykkksyoAw/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
After spending much of our day on the main island, it was time to go explore Burano. We took a 40-minute water bus to the nearby island where we were met by a colorful array of homes and miniature canals. That was probably the highlight of Venice for me. We saw a leaning bell tower on the island, which at first I couldn't believe until my mom and brother confirmed it. Of course, everyone else on my Instagram poll seemed to think so as well. Thanks to everyone who voted! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVec-cUhc6ooWmOVhddW_oLhi-_Fj1XRUMloazM1T5dGbWxuJkmUpjM3zRMEvTigPcGB40i4DuJHiUbsrhAXPvzf9STg2WSnK3J7Zq7fyTvDujiJpNQuR4vsyFATPSKFQeKxmJkEpM5E0/s1600/128923B2-2D8D-403B-86E3-C5CA09F379D8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVec-cUhc6ooWmOVhddW_oLhi-_Fj1XRUMloazM1T5dGbWxuJkmUpjM3zRMEvTigPcGB40i4DuJHiUbsrhAXPvzf9STg2WSnK3J7Zq7fyTvDujiJpNQuR4vsyFATPSKFQeKxmJkEpM5E0/s1600/128923B2-2D8D-403B-86E3-C5CA09F379D8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorvLONqZbtPbrgjhC1FovlpE6rl9UwVeveZc9MbSlQoO-vKtVSBtoR3QiSbtgJJMZGI0_wkMG2nLadV5PpN2iNzbb9kDKjcFnyRBDjd0udBoC2ul1UWiPaiwCr3KTgJVlsbMyFN5BVv0/s1600/Snapseed+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorvLONqZbtPbrgjhC1FovlpE6rl9UwVeveZc9MbSlQoO-vKtVSBtoR3QiSbtgJJMZGI0_wkMG2nLadV5PpN2iNzbb9kDKjcFnyRBDjd0udBoC2ul1UWiPaiwCr3KTgJVlsbMyFN5BVv0/s1600/Snapseed+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTl3pVZGmNbrR3Aq3ZdQJINUbqRF_CKoefCrgm7rW6qhXbzQ6SYciDIO5eYuku5wDvJnIbaFTcK2qYwEKvIRaOdIJGwZwroKqaEg3KHx9rT1DeFrUDug4d0JrUV-3GpEGq44MNs7b_MCI/s1600/Snapseed+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTl3pVZGmNbrR3Aq3ZdQJINUbqRF_CKoefCrgm7rW6qhXbzQ6SYciDIO5eYuku5wDvJnIbaFTcK2qYwEKvIRaOdIJGwZwroKqaEg3KHx9rT1DeFrUDug4d0JrUV-3GpEGq44MNs7b_MCI/s1600/Snapseed+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvtumZSGmL9WnSDzGpKimGNDL5n3jc4Vyq347w8LN4aouHhWKvrPXfjWhRwJUHAO74QKWHTyrqFd49IBignUrvSUAJt2uHdO4l8BDHpGUYRBi6BzyeqXSnZS9488Z5JEoTpRcWTwcQkY/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvtumZSGmL9WnSDzGpKimGNDL5n3jc4Vyq347w8LN4aouHhWKvrPXfjWhRwJUHAO74QKWHTyrqFd49IBignUrvSUAJt2uHdO4l8BDHpGUYRBi6BzyeqXSnZS9488Z5JEoTpRcWTwcQkY/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Since the island was quite small, we stayed there for a little over an hour until sunset. There on the water bus back to Venice, I had witnessed one of the most beautiful European sunsets that I had ever seen. It was a mental tug of war whether Cabo da Roca in Portugal or whether Venice had the best sunset. To me, it's like comparing apples to oranges. They're both winners in my eyes. The Venice sunset reflected upon the water which made it turn this beautiful coral color that I'll never forget. Augh, I love Venice.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qJr0AqBajfVjcTpJcACLe7xwvSAAdhBTVNwMxKOANYw-1Gz2GSwGAqvGAf7jli6tLATHzaluYlt79-DZqy_a_RkVX6Boa_Mml26V-RP5ijZgDDIogCwn8TTweptlobsLsP1Vg82oYjU/s1600/IMG_7696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qJr0AqBajfVjcTpJcACLe7xwvSAAdhBTVNwMxKOANYw-1Gz2GSwGAqvGAf7jli6tLATHzaluYlt79-DZqy_a_RkVX6Boa_Mml26V-RP5ijZgDDIogCwn8TTweptlobsLsP1Vg82oYjU/s1600/IMG_7696.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
For dinner, we went to <a href="https://cantinadospade.com/en/">Ae Do Spade</a> where we dined on calamari, prawn spaghetti, and clam spaghetti. The prawn spaghetti was a family favorite. Probably my favorite spaghetti in Italy. Afterwards, we headed to Suso for gelato. Wow. Their "Manet" gelato comprised of pistachio al sale and gianduia was so creamy and amazing. My family really enjoyed dinner and dessert on this night. Special thanks to my friend, Nicola, for sending me all of these amazing recommendations!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_ugpD2j7Sj9o2ClJR6C8eu4Dyv5DmKBeYOD_NkLamknatprzeJBGd6kKprdgGlUR0kfVPABFVa9nlREXtBAIXF5qg_oMHQFgWOOpElhmcH0-KyuZ5u7OjwKgoQrGZmXiUuWgsn847AQ/s1600/C1BBF46A-B161-4D90-8833-5144ED88331B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_ugpD2j7Sj9o2ClJR6C8eu4Dyv5DmKBeYOD_NkLamknatprzeJBGd6kKprdgGlUR0kfVPABFVa9nlREXtBAIXF5qg_oMHQFgWOOpElhmcH0-KyuZ5u7OjwKgoQrGZmXiUuWgsn847AQ/s1600/C1BBF46A-B161-4D90-8833-5144ED88331B.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Prawn Spaghetti</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphengti1SKEzI3N3d3tj74jdbMASKH-cZbFBOQczJYHI4LTNILMrVLRLpkCL1MkgX3ULNY66fkVFRdKx3N6i9XTInxvNaDv-9t6XalnYc9_2M-9bN7H7AVarIEQxTQQx-gx8zVjtPjHNko/s1600/E9E1DA62-FE9C-4E07-98A5-9F698771C3BF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphengti1SKEzI3N3d3tj74jdbMASKH-cZbFBOQczJYHI4LTNILMrVLRLpkCL1MkgX3ULNY66fkVFRdKx3N6i9XTInxvNaDv-9t6XalnYc9_2M-9bN7H7AVarIEQxTQQx-gx8zVjtPjHNko/s1600/E9E1DA62-FE9C-4E07-98A5-9F698771C3BF.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Manet Gelato: Pistacio Al Sale and Gianduia</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Overall, Venice was a beautiful and amazing experience. I loved traveling through the narrow yet colorful streets. Not to spoil the rest of the upcoming blog posts, but I think that Venice is by far my favorite city in Italy. No other location compares to the uniqueness of the architecture and the pedestrian friendly streets. I will absolutely come back one day. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dGQEvPxL0YT1kgXcXWxE31Xxz7ARV3wkO_Sqn0vxmXTN_ZhRAksf1d5Z7PjmC2o7pM80bequ14Un53eHg3sOtDRVxbSQEEMOIQmgYmk9wC4fDB6iY9PmKcGi-aOYNjAm63A3l_Woy48/s1600/62D897D8-9BBC-4477-80A8-4C8F25BF00E7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dGQEvPxL0YT1kgXcXWxE31Xxz7ARV3wkO_Sqn0vxmXTN_ZhRAksf1d5Z7PjmC2o7pM80bequ14Un53eHg3sOtDRVxbSQEEMOIQmgYmk9wC4fDB6iY9PmKcGi-aOYNjAm63A3l_Woy48/s1600/62D897D8-9BBC-4477-80A8-4C8F25BF00E7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwlL5gfp1am3GxCmfHH7x0nAFlbHLcFLXKDAU1Dltl4tsiSL-Supo1yoC7h3sOSrezfxwLHNyAKmxLmlg2wcOeqbn4JFtEknABBdQnlf0M7-HTHUpCGMCLQVMMkYhmYO2Tgiz-Dn25Xw/s1600/IMG_7690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwlL5gfp1am3GxCmfHH7x0nAFlbHLcFLXKDAU1Dltl4tsiSL-Supo1yoC7h3sOSrezfxwLHNyAKmxLmlg2wcOeqbn4JFtEknABBdQnlf0M7-HTHUpCGMCLQVMMkYhmYO2Tgiz-Dn25Xw/s1600/IMG_7690.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4YMcNLXMeUIZmZqNxANNf_CZzac08CDWHRgiILy7AlBY-bvdjpg2CembS34ATZ115FF93gvXi-dK3BFYyKIS364imCjv4lEuP7oyahdD82GeJFfdMqFmET3SVpMat8UGgQ7BXzfuLG0/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4YMcNLXMeUIZmZqNxANNf_CZzac08CDWHRgiILy7AlBY-bvdjpg2CembS34ATZ115FF93gvXi-dK3BFYyKIS364imCjv4lEuP7oyahdD82GeJFfdMqFmET3SVpMat8UGgQ7BXzfuLG0/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmi8F6ZQLaFhHAg7cbe1tH5gYrwKlqma15OBo0hSykkZ5qxC1Cu3LIWrQearkgcyResysmpnUhUB91WxZb410aFzYMRALTQDwKx8chMEzHKmUOTVV3w4qnA5iC5jdJYxd66wjxyfl7j0/s1600/Snapseed+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmi8F6ZQLaFhHAg7cbe1tH5gYrwKlqma15OBo0hSykkZ5qxC1Cu3LIWrQearkgcyResysmpnUhUB91WxZb410aFzYMRALTQDwKx8chMEzHKmUOTVV3w4qnA5iC5jdJYxd66wjxyfl7j0/s1600/Snapseed+11.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBwVym8YqBjSTWvhTMGNi35555RX580oYWiMWH7N5C0x_oMxnQ_hT5phPkaI4AnbLs2rZUrJMWIMcaj3RFfobd6LXBDfr6jQyyXJ7g1hRbDqec1NfIkB1nxJwXx9dm57tUovQDdE3GeA/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBwVym8YqBjSTWvhTMGNi35555RX580oYWiMWH7N5C0x_oMxnQ_hT5phPkaI4AnbLs2rZUrJMWIMcaj3RFfobd6LXBDfr6jQyyXJ7g1hRbDqec1NfIkB1nxJwXx9dm57tUovQDdE3GeA/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmm1G6Hc7zEJItWa8hPYXiq115PPZFzVK_mRmCfEJOoPprvxVZtyrBXORNBxDAYGwFDKLny1GjC7jzhcxYHjgSX6pK2U0L-WjyjWcMe9d0v5rj4SdK_nv6pUwdFAfIAF06gVT_DtHjGoM/s1600/Snapseed+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmm1G6Hc7zEJItWa8hPYXiq115PPZFzVK_mRmCfEJOoPprvxVZtyrBXORNBxDAYGwFDKLny1GjC7jzhcxYHjgSX6pK2U0L-WjyjWcMe9d0v5rj4SdK_nv6pUwdFAfIAF06gVT_DtHjGoM/s1600/Snapseed+19.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKbu4_m8IlQUxNlV5hLAjG4me6ov4yTlxuvABCshc1nV5LdeOPHIpbfwqUk3Ynehxr1Q7KyfIIVfdHqlAKd9STv0nZfV2OvMfEUebSy5Ng1yFoPycfiufDlCk2SwHWT3MxZjnQXF8DRc/s1600/Snapseed+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKbu4_m8IlQUxNlV5hLAjG4me6ov4yTlxuvABCshc1nV5LdeOPHIpbfwqUk3Ynehxr1Q7KyfIIVfdHqlAKd9STv0nZfV2OvMfEUebSy5Ng1yFoPycfiufDlCk2SwHWT3MxZjnQXF8DRc/s1600/Snapseed+21.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjua_-IsjC5tfNL6vTubX50N0bm8gxvFnPMWHa2wAoQV71-1_u1Bf57RvRd-U0Lp_EHcO5Nq3k4UUvLJVXYgQa2SS9Fl1X8lc4WWtHUIf8Wz5DSDzOKXOBjlrWewKfEN-JH9zshbyGlaew/s1600/Snapseed+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjua_-IsjC5tfNL6vTubX50N0bm8gxvFnPMWHa2wAoQV71-1_u1Bf57RvRd-U0Lp_EHcO5Nq3k4UUvLJVXYgQa2SS9Fl1X8lc4WWtHUIf8Wz5DSDzOKXOBjlrWewKfEN-JH9zshbyGlaew/s1600/Snapseed+22.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln-MEoEP-Jpz7FkFWiipIpifTnd26B9M-AdxgYJpU2dV2H3hiUNilkocNtEkCyEeiXum-wtAXa-vNahH0N1OgP2xal9_FGTUGNnGatFxqMD9LbW9SR6ctS3JVD25XZ_vm2iUjPxpLpV0/s1600/CF6474EE-0F00-4EDC-B175-23C3BA93A677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln-MEoEP-Jpz7FkFWiipIpifTnd26B9M-AdxgYJpU2dV2H3hiUNilkocNtEkCyEeiXum-wtAXa-vNahH0N1OgP2xal9_FGTUGNnGatFxqMD9LbW9SR6ctS3JVD25XZ_vm2iUjPxpLpV0/s1600/CF6474EE-0F00-4EDC-B175-23C3BA93A677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdrNqswMpHe5YcxRMxC8G2Szgxhc98uYbA2MMyI0dWBi6YHFtI_n_evK-p5y4MJeC4_GpwpBrHmuzI7st2z6GdOxmXAbcaqXuqIkV84GHy7bZy_JA680KIdkFGsF4Nlmn1h10eSgKhi0/s1600/Snapseed+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdrNqswMpHe5YcxRMxC8G2Szgxhc98uYbA2MMyI0dWBi6YHFtI_n_evK-p5y4MJeC4_GpwpBrHmuzI7st2z6GdOxmXAbcaqXuqIkV84GHy7bZy_JA680KIdkFGsF4Nlmn1h10eSgKhi0/s1600/Snapseed+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3WPBi8wF5y3lLBmLotH3HHHBcUU4SNtngzcOC8qNCf3PX0s-JQRgL1_sKh8WyXziKmZRWJLrWcsbj_uY_16aHvYjpAQWzSSCJm-9PKHLnoJ_WA5x_Qq6Re3FnGYolddTGTiCNsrVNwM/s1600/IMG_7694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3WPBi8wF5y3lLBmLotH3HHHBcUU4SNtngzcOC8qNCf3PX0s-JQRgL1_sKh8WyXziKmZRWJLrWcsbj_uY_16aHvYjpAQWzSSCJm-9PKHLnoJ_WA5x_Qq6Re3FnGYolddTGTiCNsrVNwM/s1600/IMG_7694.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRDLlBnujWvPRIXlkjo_X0rx64oseaGgTQNvgsnk2iOImfzpb7rE9lzNAiouVwkj2rtinZtALVV4pvSgBmafdyiy1Rkg8ILZv0A0hFNI_wpNJptXu2Dg1MXpfvjKV2eKETqcaG-eSQ8H8/s1600/Snapseed+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRDLlBnujWvPRIXlkjo_X0rx64oseaGgTQNvgsnk2iOImfzpb7rE9lzNAiouVwkj2rtinZtALVV4pvSgBmafdyiy1Rkg8ILZv0A0hFNI_wpNJptXu2Dg1MXpfvjKV2eKETqcaG-eSQ8H8/s1600/Snapseed+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tEObDaGf_iQF0uvIATmqPwGm82ja1Vc9fPbnpYrkB6Hw8wRNRt3m-BXlL0pZBSFivDMpXtSL67rPAj_Cg87xxIngtKmUrNUN3pym0fTvIEyTr9RqQMd-fQJXTFW4Hskc-im_nImvzko/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tEObDaGf_iQF0uvIATmqPwGm82ja1Vc9fPbnpYrkB6Hw8wRNRt3m-BXlL0pZBSFivDMpXtSL67rPAj_Cg87xxIngtKmUrNUN3pym0fTvIEyTr9RqQMd-fQJXTFW4Hskc-im_nImvzko/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljV3WGMTIvNSKAfOW8xSU6ev2-R031GQqSMDECvqapUVh0Hai-5Zd7fOa93oey5o2URkn5sW5WoSgMQ2o5nd_aREsY1Q7jLuHk2239C677IGuQYIQo8zTrDO2UmgvCJnCF8mETsomj_k/s1600/Snapseed+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljV3WGMTIvNSKAfOW8xSU6ev2-R031GQqSMDECvqapUVh0Hai-5Zd7fOa93oey5o2URkn5sW5WoSgMQ2o5nd_aREsY1Q7jLuHk2239C677IGuQYIQo8zTrDO2UmgvCJnCF8mETsomj_k/s1600/Snapseed+14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Next up on the blog: Florence! Stay tuned for more stories to come. If you have any questions or would like to leave me a comment, feel free to tweet or message me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Until next time!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Ciao,</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-20210841130613519532018-03-31T12:21:00.000-07:002018-03-31T15:48:20.163-07:00Bienvenue!Happy 128th birthday to the <a href="https://www.toureiffel.paris/en">Eiffel Tower</a>! It was on this very day (March 31st) that the Eiffel Tower first opened. There's nothing more fitting than a post to commemorate the special day, right?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a7HrfNWZNzkN_sUswzEGt2P_sg7-EP64-qVamsDEtl3i45Dr5ATxsh140i30Z-g77zkynSeY5C9gK2OxUqIKJTEfr_w8jYxm3h2ZlWnz6a8AamPuWbAMyCdfWo10EXyrIP_wFs8jfSI/s1600/B2A39E17-2F2A-48DF-83CD-B25457F1B3E6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a7HrfNWZNzkN_sUswzEGt2P_sg7-EP64-qVamsDEtl3i45Dr5ATxsh140i30Z-g77zkynSeY5C9gK2OxUqIKJTEfr_w8jYxm3h2ZlWnz6a8AamPuWbAMyCdfWo10EXyrIP_wFs8jfSI/s1600/B2A39E17-2F2A-48DF-83CD-B25457F1B3E6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The park across from the Eiffel Tower.</span></div>
<br />
Last night, I returned to Los Angeles after flying 13.5 hours from Rome. I feel a little bit jet lagged, but nonetheless, it feels good to be home. After traveling for 10 days, visiting 5 cities, walking 88.7 miles, and capturing 3,231 photos, I have a lot of stories to share from my trip. With that said, I will be breaking up my trip into 5 posts, one post for each city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3___h-QNFDYB2qcIg_gTPUiicOF0Jhyphenhyphenr4uBwkJM5v-LvEfAWf4nsMFY3ZtfRpo7pShUQv3oMnlC5LZENTt9VBDI1GUCGdHSYe-_TL0huHOl_Fc1E1wJe-Lvy3PrFhr9iAwJKcO8EQbtk/s1600/854E97C2-9CC7-407D-B0D1-50EE858419F9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1600" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3___h-QNFDYB2qcIg_gTPUiicOF0Jhyphenhyphenr4uBwkJM5v-LvEfAWf4nsMFY3ZtfRpo7pShUQv3oMnlC5LZENTt9VBDI1GUCGdHSYe-_TL0huHOl_Fc1E1wJe-Lvy3PrFhr9iAwJKcO8EQbtk/s1600/854E97C2-9CC7-407D-B0D1-50EE858419F9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Flying over the Swiss Alps.</span></div>
<br />
<b>First up: </b>Paris, France!<br />
<br />
After a full day at work and two plane changes in Zurich and Rome, we finally arrived in Paris, France on Wednesday, March 21st. Accompanied by my parents on their very first trip to Europe, it was great to finally take a family trip after a two year hiatus. My sister and I surprised my parents with an all expense paid stay at <a href="http://www.leshotelsbaverez.com/en/raphael/?_ga=2.68250321.1501863830.1522511718-1506690932.1522511718">Hotel Raphael</a> on Avenue Kléber as part of their Christmas present. A beautiful and historical hotel built in 1925, it once hosted Hollywood elite such as Marlon Brando, Grace Kelly, Clark Gable, Ava Gardner, and more. The unpretentious classic Parisian interior design and the rooftop views of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe made this hotel an easy choice for our stay in Paris.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh517ju1H9CcmYDUcNdo4cZC4ytsC-z0eFdktfWmElFA53c8RrZU2vkEqlFxF3_gsZegkxXhCwZjC3jAVYbjrjHflkCgjhQULfdrufRz2w-LZoX2TOVxVZAMqjbWuxroQ34gRKiVoffZO4/s1600/8783C9B4-1FED-44EC-81E1-8B912E424B58.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh517ju1H9CcmYDUcNdo4cZC4ytsC-z0eFdktfWmElFA53c8RrZU2vkEqlFxF3_gsZegkxXhCwZjC3jAVYbjrjHflkCgjhQULfdrufRz2w-LZoX2TOVxVZAMqjbWuxroQ34gRKiVoffZO4/s1600/8783C9B4-1FED-44EC-81E1-8B912E424B58.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUWe4KOqtfkT9ZrNc2b-p4Hi98CbO0EP821Oh5LdjvqvgV6h-ItXeeQS1Jh6Q1j3Pch2UeTeaWLoX0M_ClnyimtXZa8kLNhFiO7vX1xMFYZAvOrCyoFlZp5c6EaGsPx5g1cD2Ioz7DRY/s1600/6886BEC5-7FBE-4F39-B65E-05745B585CFF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUWe4KOqtfkT9ZrNc2b-p4Hi98CbO0EP821Oh5LdjvqvgV6h-ItXeeQS1Jh6Q1j3Pch2UeTeaWLoX0M_ClnyimtXZa8kLNhFiO7vX1xMFYZAvOrCyoFlZp5c6EaGsPx5g1cD2Ioz7DRY/s1600/6886BEC5-7FBE-4F39-B65E-05745B585CFF.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hotel Raphael main lobby</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11KMQUdnuLQvtahfrnJ_pKYFhRsg1tiL-NXoneIUJVDq8uiR1vN3yjgPvFySy-DZvN9BIZhmsmCOaxioGQ9xn-EVKn83Zk5UBv94amzccxiySSLcPWa6jBNHFT8C_1FlyfBM2zqVOksk/s1600/B80205AC-CA66-4701-8762-642243F9EA11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11KMQUdnuLQvtahfrnJ_pKYFhRsg1tiL-NXoneIUJVDq8uiR1vN3yjgPvFySy-DZvN9BIZhmsmCOaxioGQ9xn-EVKn83Zk5UBv94amzccxiySSLcPWa6jBNHFT8C_1FlyfBM2zqVOksk/s1600/B80205AC-CA66-4701-8762-642243F9EA11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>DAY 1:</b><br />
<br />
Our first full day in Paris was quite a busy one. With overcast skies and chilly weather on our hands, we bundled up before heading out to grab a quick breakfast at a local cafe before heading off to check off the sights. I enjoyed a quiche, pasteis de nata, and an espresso for breakfast while my parents enjoyed some breakfast croissants with espresso.<br />
<br />
Quick note: Due to the citywide public strikes, we had to modify a few of our activities due to delayed openings and limited transportation services.<br />
<br />
First up, we headed to the <a href="http://www.arcdetriompheparis.com/">Arc de Triomphe</a> to check out the aerial views of the city. Unfortunately, it experienced a delayed opening on the day of our visit, so we came to check out the exterior of the structure before heading off to the Eiffel Tower.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDREeAfC2wyB2l6ghxvZa3Z2UY1GmcwpuDLON98-XP2N4qW__MH_LPgJG5VacQjsLrzyrBZ72SHSchCKX3WgY9PN8jEnAjjbPsFWkk2ZG2Hd__fFNnPfRjNFOpWCIbtJDJ0QANV1tWpHY/s1600/IMG_7140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDREeAfC2wyB2l6ghxvZa3Z2UY1GmcwpuDLON98-XP2N4qW__MH_LPgJG5VacQjsLrzyrBZ72SHSchCKX3WgY9PN8jEnAjjbPsFWkk2ZG2Hd__fFNnPfRjNFOpWCIbtJDJ0QANV1tWpHY/s1600/IMG_7140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After about a 20-minute walk, we arrived. It was a surreal experience being able to see it close up. It was smaller than I imagined it to be, but it was nonetheless a great iconic structure to witness.<br />
<br />
Next up: <a href="https://www.louvre.fr/en">Musée du Louvre</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQh83HAdBPpU_Jj42boUnYNSoiNU5WTpBBA-1v1q_ud9zrVOQNUYNcQajAkfL69X1rdR678ziFnYmEmGmnrNRdMVxPU9n58dTk5unL3Je245cv5p5NEeSB4pRceFwZCyX5J-ec11qnaQ/s1600/Snapseed+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1047" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQh83HAdBPpU_Jj42boUnYNSoiNU5WTpBBA-1v1q_ud9zrVOQNUYNcQajAkfL69X1rdR678ziFnYmEmGmnrNRdMVxPU9n58dTk5unL3Je245cv5p5NEeSB4pRceFwZCyX5J-ec11qnaQ/s1600/Snapseed+2.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
<br />
I had been looking forward to this forever. I heard great things about this museum from friends and of course the internet. Seeing that I knew I needed at least a few hours inside, I didn't plan our itinerary for much else aside from dinner. My parents really enjoyed taking fun photos outside, posing as statues in front of the glass pyramid. It was quite cute and funny at the same time. God bless them. Haha.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNx5v0V1Bl-jSatj6WPUwSJlcZEqCvNzo-o3A62fQx1BBi4W1B_OcNHxq1vVTloFc6VHJO1pEiRsITWP__hDQeybh2ELjNX5lR9I7XTfvzi7ABmISWWa3HvI1N9RFap9D2aDnKxcCnwW8/s1600/Snapseed+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="1547" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNx5v0V1Bl-jSatj6WPUwSJlcZEqCvNzo-o3A62fQx1BBi4W1B_OcNHxq1vVTloFc6VHJO1pEiRsITWP__hDQeybh2ELjNX5lR9I7XTfvzi7ABmISWWa3HvI1N9RFap9D2aDnKxcCnwW8/s1600/Snapseed+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAghhF_O1kdMYNSfYNHLFPoFC2u6-4HslzDheLEpkDeddj0FT3XZcI30k7zDAwP5DfmsfuVD_684lUNnkl6zDIX-LgsWZLpbT1KLBxcQFQFQJxuJ7sD4bNFcOVBBdNl6xpnLth8hKXrA/s1600/IMG_7283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1080" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAghhF_O1kdMYNSfYNHLFPoFC2u6-4HslzDheLEpkDeddj0FT3XZcI30k7zDAwP5DfmsfuVD_684lUNnkl6zDIX-LgsWZLpbT1KLBxcQFQFQJxuJ7sD4bNFcOVBBdNl6xpnLth8hKXrA/s1600/IMG_7283.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8rkyEGniissRHam9KdlzvU0M2XwHItGLXDfLOvo3RH0ZVLisxEmaAsqPDzXn-zPIEWBcflr3lgMGYZzTLZ0nulQMmGKUY8bLjg9i1vFQ-HaoqxbFwdXwrPz5DiSw7GMWm8IB2ueB69U/s1600/279C1692-76AB-43E1-A28D-DBB3C36A9A40.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8rkyEGniissRHam9KdlzvU0M2XwHItGLXDfLOvo3RH0ZVLisxEmaAsqPDzXn-zPIEWBcflr3lgMGYZzTLZ0nulQMmGKUY8bLjg9i1vFQ-HaoqxbFwdXwrPz5DiSw7GMWm8IB2ueB69U/s1600/279C1692-76AB-43E1-A28D-DBB3C36A9A40.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWs3YElfP7tzDZnuKUnyVT8skrbgSZ_IPgjMR1Q18E6htNhzNgCUa0lDX3gwh-KtjI806IqGPsMNdffhZcPpAUhYxrY9kgRHwRyBmCUlhbNlFCEcMcgTS9SBmS0uocXoVcOt-ZZ5mSlI4/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWs3YElfP7tzDZnuKUnyVT8skrbgSZ_IPgjMR1Q18E6htNhzNgCUa0lDX3gwh-KtjI806IqGPsMNdffhZcPpAUhYxrY9kgRHwRyBmCUlhbNlFCEcMcgTS9SBmS0uocXoVcOt-ZZ5mSlI4/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqOdtaxwem4e4UlkaqR1t4ILXjg-Zh2V2zX1JSB_q4XpoIPluenvLhk83uAI-ScI_Fn3hiqQgTlamr88xQ93f6RnBlgIo1TMviL-WjkiryO58-qhaWz6qNTPq6IGdl7Jqhvd79CcEkNc/s1600/Snapseed+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqOdtaxwem4e4UlkaqR1t4ILXjg-Zh2V2zX1JSB_q4XpoIPluenvLhk83uAI-ScI_Fn3hiqQgTlamr88xQ93f6RnBlgIo1TMviL-WjkiryO58-qhaWz6qNTPq6IGdl7Jqhvd79CcEkNc/s1600/Snapseed+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDh6EaRgiYGe2QG-jEOxTLdd6f4qeLQmL-dShjkHkXqUbG50SzRDNc08n6-D0n-0nREGyiKL_lyUCDSTHjf8uCHpCIbA1xWKyxl320ujcrQjWBZI0WUVI4ykzlbDDVLyJR8WTYVNlOFPA/s1600/Snapseed+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDh6EaRgiYGe2QG-jEOxTLdd6f4qeLQmL-dShjkHkXqUbG50SzRDNc08n6-D0n-0nREGyiKL_lyUCDSTHjf8uCHpCIbA1xWKyxl320ujcrQjWBZI0WUVI4ykzlbDDVLyJR8WTYVNlOFPA/s1600/Snapseed+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47K71UFMc2ilbnpboy7TtfQ_5Cfq53iK5iPGujbefKn0gc2cY8IqM19ehZb_qFvb8-A7DLEVdPIdcJnxExAsFrAPtpZBCSEoUiDRjTlv8I_m1_3RwFtO3k84jxGTppuqqjh6Y4WFflyk/s1600/72ED06D0-4AC3-40D1-9A3F-0C68A0C366AA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47K71UFMc2ilbnpboy7TtfQ_5Cfq53iK5iPGujbefKn0gc2cY8IqM19ehZb_qFvb8-A7DLEVdPIdcJnxExAsFrAPtpZBCSEoUiDRjTlv8I_m1_3RwFtO3k84jxGTppuqqjh6Y4WFflyk/s1600/72ED06D0-4AC3-40D1-9A3F-0C68A0C366AA.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQgQ91Nx-LuPkHOB79h4GtUWaHcwBHcZ-7JoZykRb9sSAEsWa_8ZKQwkeBdGkzW-Fh7uHccnvGfp_am9CWVOwLRuAcnjD4Y2UQh8sql9DdwyDdgkALtx8rYNS2ZQVZlG0sNeKzDtbTzk/s1600/036938FB-5200-49E2-AB60-2ED48558315D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQgQ91Nx-LuPkHOB79h4GtUWaHcwBHcZ-7JoZykRb9sSAEsWa_8ZKQwkeBdGkzW-Fh7uHccnvGfp_am9CWVOwLRuAcnjD4Y2UQh8sql9DdwyDdgkALtx8rYNS2ZQVZlG0sNeKzDtbTzk/s1600/036938FB-5200-49E2-AB60-2ED48558315D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In total, we spent between three to four hours inside. It was there that I found my favorite painting in the entire museum called, "La Jeune Martyre" (which translates to "The Young Martyr") by the French painter, Paul Delaroche.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeexyHBW2HqDy63XM9i37U3ErYViNWurh9sOLfCauw9GswzoDf2-fXedOSfbGw2SkZwwnabpvH3C8vD6Uz5gkNU_c5NOpyM57G_3mwD4As05bcpx1CQFOa3N0G-NCqoYwO6LLrjYFOpo/s1600/IMG_7054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1552" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeexyHBW2HqDy63XM9i37U3ErYViNWurh9sOLfCauw9GswzoDf2-fXedOSfbGw2SkZwwnabpvH3C8vD6Uz5gkNU_c5NOpyM57G_3mwD4As05bcpx1CQFOa3N0G-NCqoYwO6LLrjYFOpo/s1600/IMG_7054.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"La Jeune Martyre" Paul Delaroche 1855</div>
<br />
Of course, no visit to the Louvre would be complete without a quick visit to the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. I think I was more captivated by the crowd more than anything else of people trying to get a photo of the painting. It was quite comical to see, and it definitely made my day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlReIfO3oy62FcGC0C_A6Uw0oZpWqAUcsUDe4_dr5QwsPX2wNEF-iC_ypBqBJvIZHZXbn-CW1A64LxRBxBzeIL5GwOLrrjDQqorDJZefYC68sUy-QQAthJ1-UfjP0bdCZsCTqfVKhM1s/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlReIfO3oy62FcGC0C_A6Uw0oZpWqAUcsUDe4_dr5QwsPX2wNEF-iC_ypBqBJvIZHZXbn-CW1A64LxRBxBzeIL5GwOLrrjDQqorDJZefYC68sUy-QQAthJ1-UfjP0bdCZsCTqfVKhM1s/s1600/Snapseed+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRpc3yg018cKZNzyNAYmMdK20N6AuvcJP11KPzDOW8mhJy_l2oDfqo9Bri2NpacevdPzzL3YS-bNM87bvL9r33EEZSILcgppPLxXHhiswTuywjAzY-BVrYuIz5z2MQQAvN4B4bcn8foU/s1600/IMG_7279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1080" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRpc3yg018cKZNzyNAYmMdK20N6AuvcJP11KPzDOW8mhJy_l2oDfqo9Bri2NpacevdPzzL3YS-bNM87bvL9r33EEZSILcgppPLxXHhiswTuywjAzY-BVrYuIz5z2MQQAvN4B4bcn8foU/s1600/IMG_7279.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Crowd trying to get a picture of the Mona Lisa. Hilarious!</span></div>
<br />
Roaming around the Louvre sure built up quite the appetite. After the museum, we enjoyed a late lunch at <a href="https://comptoirdelagastronomie.com/">Comptoir de la Gastronomie</a>, a popular local French eatery. There, we enjoyed some red wine with foie gras and seared duck. No lie, I was a little bit scared of the medium rare seared duck breast because it was semi-bleeding inside, but nonetheless, the server assured us that it was safe to eat. The meat was quite tender, but nonetheless a very unfamiliar and foreign dish to us. I'm not going to lie...I had to use Google to make sure that undercooked duck was safe to eat, because I know you can't do that same for chicken. Haha.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-BbTdUP8EuShNdxL6Ou7IlN4OEQRjCH8VJKSK38DQz7SWJPxHtivlsK1YqJPT0BQpFwzjDDVACzw4BLqDmkEqI2hwh33O42N_7pxVMPleZJZs2WI7w7t39aNIFCwi5uaQQy22f6OxwE/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-BbTdUP8EuShNdxL6Ou7IlN4OEQRjCH8VJKSK38DQz7SWJPxHtivlsK1YqJPT0BQpFwzjDDVACzw4BLqDmkEqI2hwh33O42N_7pxVMPleZJZs2WI7w7t39aNIFCwi5uaQQy22f6OxwE/s1600/Snapseed+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Foie Gras</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uAMNZbtYXXUzEfn14Wa8svaximBwGAW5F6RImpVCezvpMp0hscDRo9QIgkJ66z36PMMY5NMcsNf8Xag3ukOcPetUycMfCyRvJIoEoUmk_nVVFwpeM3IIfWEYNJFLyjfzanhkyUDeqiI/s1600/Snapseed+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uAMNZbtYXXUzEfn14Wa8svaximBwGAW5F6RImpVCezvpMp0hscDRo9QIgkJ66z36PMMY5NMcsNf8Xag3ukOcPetUycMfCyRvJIoEoUmk_nVVFwpeM3IIfWEYNJFLyjfzanhkyUDeqiI/s1600/Snapseed+10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Seared Medium Rare Duck Breast</span></div>
<br />
After lunch, we headed to the <a href="http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/en/">Notre Dame Cathedral</a> for some more sightseeing. They were holding a mass inside which was cool to see among all of the beautiful artwork and architecture inside. The arches of the cathedral really intrigued me. I can't believe an infrastructure like that has stood the test of time and aging.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWMh8r9Ufa9rQFZaVgrNilYvHKXn_3ICZdy21IvyziZVitfP7uqPv41JtmjwRM95QFuBrsa1idjDKO_1h0uflHJG56XVDRqt4MDNMmHluVcUAoyN9hOVrAe8dAVqqEIZqovOUyZMi6Gcs/s1600/IMG_7280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1080" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWMh8r9Ufa9rQFZaVgrNilYvHKXn_3ICZdy21IvyziZVitfP7uqPv41JtmjwRM95QFuBrsa1idjDKO_1h0uflHJG56XVDRqt4MDNMmHluVcUAoyN9hOVrAe8dAVqqEIZqovOUyZMi6Gcs/s1600/IMG_7280.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hUH8iInxk6zRyWPIm8Wy2f8Ea3XjH5YSuuc_gAqHZLfxfjqoM6zQSW2MirXV_DzybP7G21iK53XjvH5h64V2EWZBU21VmufLWYG3kERvxo9YB5G8c8Bh6E3QPv0tWRLpTJkUoZFemtg/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hUH8iInxk6zRyWPIm8Wy2f8Ea3XjH5YSuuc_gAqHZLfxfjqoM6zQSW2MirXV_DzybP7G21iK53XjvH5h64V2EWZBU21VmufLWYG3kERvxo9YB5G8c8Bh6E3QPv0tWRLpTJkUoZFemtg/s1600/Snapseed+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfUEZSdtFdqSGIVK5Iucl6sQnnHQnrtdQu7pSIiTuGJJ6khzOPRlC1bKYoSLlbg56rtZN1Ym-yu_oqtFfGJiDJvQIf6N1moJtIMbMmLNtl4b9AlaBsDJFO44wdlerVVrFdOqJXpT9E_4/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfUEZSdtFdqSGIVK5Iucl6sQnnHQnrtdQu7pSIiTuGJJ6khzOPRlC1bKYoSLlbg56rtZN1Ym-yu_oqtFfGJiDJvQIf6N1moJtIMbMmLNtl4b9AlaBsDJFO44wdlerVVrFdOqJXpT9E_4/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdh7nvhyRPPK-dIhyphenhyphenY-X2GrgPKkyWz8aL97Qor-RE5ME6GeBHNbdKzKG_wMwawuroYBTXlOBs-Gu_zVO9hC93LA6jSxkw9MKbf9D8JKMSLktYSIdjAGd3lPwQcmZPqX4bwSDMsRx8a_yg/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdh7nvhyRPPK-dIhyphenhyphenY-X2GrgPKkyWz8aL97Qor-RE5ME6GeBHNbdKzKG_wMwawuroYBTXlOBs-Gu_zVO9hC93LA6jSxkw9MKbf9D8JKMSLktYSIdjAGd3lPwQcmZPqX4bwSDMsRx8a_yg/s1600/Snapseed+16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YXluq61bTGJu0439Vws7XNl-Ng7AoCpVcyYdQWu55hemyuvGwhM7BnHV6eY82ExDKPuFIvnWxc7HivsVyUe6EavPB4TFJT18Z1YiebfvmbkLNbsTD2dXjAH0ZunGfA8OgPDNIx36qEE/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YXluq61bTGJu0439Vws7XNl-Ng7AoCpVcyYdQWu55hemyuvGwhM7BnHV6eY82ExDKPuFIvnWxc7HivsVyUe6EavPB4TFJT18Z1YiebfvmbkLNbsTD2dXjAH0ZunGfA8OgPDNIx36qEE/s1600/Snapseed+17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, we headed to <a href="https://shakespeareandcompany.com/">Shakespeare & Company</a>, a small but popular independent bookstore in Paris. I'll be honest. I've been to a lot of wonderful bookstores in my time, and this by far was the most charming. Newer books were displayed in the front of the store, while older and more vintage collections were stored towards the back and upstairs portion of the store. I liked this bookstore more than Powell's in Portland. They had a piano player upstairs, a typewriting station to jot down your thoughts, and an in-house cat napping on the couch. No pictures were allowed inside, so I'm going to let you use your imagination and go see it for yourself the next time you're in Paris.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6djww5cvLo73AohJ32UlNGkL2fDuDVlzu-Imcd1wG-Y00w_zCQU_E6PI2yKyF1_YU0nIVFR8EgD9fkhEeqjOQJARlu4IEZ5O8I1kMJA9HXFdb4DdbcKM9aTnuHXApIhTcsOkLHGxC5n0/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6djww5cvLo73AohJ32UlNGkL2fDuDVlzu-Imcd1wG-Y00w_zCQU_E6PI2yKyF1_YU0nIVFR8EgD9fkhEeqjOQJARlu4IEZ5O8I1kMJA9HXFdb4DdbcKM9aTnuHXApIhTcsOkLHGxC5n0/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For dinner, we had a nice quiet evening at <a href="http://www.le-train-bleu.com/uk/index.php">Le Train Bleu</a>, an old restaurant situated in the train station of Paris. The interior was very opulent and traditional of French design. Look it up. It's gorgeous! My photos didn't turn out very well, so I recommend you look it up online. At the restaurant, we enjoyed some seared salmon, red wine, and giant chocolate Profiteroles served with vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate served fresh on top. The server liked us so much, he gave us an extra serving (we got 5 in total)! I think that was the best dessert that we had in Paris.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeZtDa4Ft7uhdOhUd4RmzAVfyoT4-qrChilID87mmX5CmbxEl-m23Ccmn3FzDQetnZW3OXOR42CfunfYJXms15F6gGk6w8MglIm39nc-p9m8JCv7GSMqFG_0ioc4HmLgsBwT9iVuDjCI/s1600/1041F6BA-AD18-4520-ABDA-3CD8BE1CC648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeZtDa4Ft7uhdOhUd4RmzAVfyoT4-qrChilID87mmX5CmbxEl-m23Ccmn3FzDQetnZW3OXOR42CfunfYJXms15F6gGk6w8MglIm39nc-p9m8JCv7GSMqFG_0ioc4HmLgsBwT9iVuDjCI/s1600/1041F6BA-AD18-4520-ABDA-3CD8BE1CC648.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-size: 10px; text-align: center;">
Not the best quality photo, but the best dessert we had in Paris.</div>
<br />
By the end of the day, we had logged in 12.3 miles of walking around the city and were quite exhausted. It was a full but nonetheless extremely memorable day in Paris.<br />
<br />
<b>DAY 2:</b><br />
<br />
The second day in Paris was a lot more mellow than the first. A rainy day, we decided to take it easy in the city. For breakfast, we went to <a href="http://www.carette-paris.fr/">Carrette</a>, a popular brunch spot in Paris. It was there that we enjoyed some berry crepes, baguettes, and chive scrambled eggs for breakfast topped off with some espresso. The crepe was light and delicious. I don't usually eat crepes all that often, but I really liked this one a lot. I didn't need to add anything to it which was great.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RYETKpQKm1OcpH0XhRpb8O9wdiYjcvHrbI3XPuYRjJ6MSfn54HURPIPUB2FImhxD-zFyBGCYDQS7_TzGA0NurTJmXUNs-7n8T4TArm4oOj_UMdYcpGSi1HmUXmikPP7HczBOtyKR2sM/s1600/43C1187E-9722-47D0-B837-ECC3DA74EBB7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RYETKpQKm1OcpH0XhRpb8O9wdiYjcvHrbI3XPuYRjJ6MSfn54HURPIPUB2FImhxD-zFyBGCYDQS7_TzGA0NurTJmXUNs-7n8T4TArm4oOj_UMdYcpGSi1HmUXmikPP7HczBOtyKR2sM/s1600/43C1187E-9722-47D0-B837-ECC3DA74EBB7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Following breakfast, we went to the <a href="http://en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace">Palace of Versailles</a>. This is going to sound really lame, but totally finished the first two seasons of the Netflix series, Versailles, before I came. Personally, I enjoyed it, and it helped me to understand a little bit more of King Louis XIV's reign. The line to enter the palace was extremely long, even for online ticket holders like us. It took about 45-minutes to get inside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwVX4JvruAPL1d5Pgh2nGe3U6ZRo6UNEQpWQXNb0FzC08KcWN0LZhvVw58ai-Paf0-3i6XuA-2NNtLLWG2_1cMas31xOXucY2V69UM0AulFh9J5gX3yFk_XZdybhYye7m2i44CfqMaZg/s1600/IMG_2740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwVX4JvruAPL1d5Pgh2nGe3U6ZRo6UNEQpWQXNb0FzC08KcWN0LZhvVw58ai-Paf0-3i6XuA-2NNtLLWG2_1cMas31xOXucY2V69UM0AulFh9J5gX3yFk_XZdybhYye7m2i44CfqMaZg/s1600/IMG_2740.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Once inside the palace walls, we travelled through all of the different rooms with the mass of tourists trying to get a shot of everything. Because it was so crowded, I didn't really take a lot of pictures inside. The only room that really grabbed my attention was the Hall of Mirrors. That was my favorite part of the palace. On the other hand, my parents enjoyed the estate gardens much more. It was really cute seeing my dad and mom walking under the umbrella in the rain. Quite a cute and romantic gesture if you ask me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4AKCvbDi_1SwVJMbWQ1dYI9G1SBnanF1fkycy-rvZXT5YNfgeeRtvVBew-fEy4zS4TYaaSDzS3t6LfQq7WPLhXl99N4C9NOIX25PdUhB7Thj6dcJd9Ff3NkSv8nlCiIOQCRpORPGbI4/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4AKCvbDi_1SwVJMbWQ1dYI9G1SBnanF1fkycy-rvZXT5YNfgeeRtvVBew-fEy4zS4TYaaSDzS3t6LfQq7WPLhXl99N4C9NOIX25PdUhB7Thj6dcJd9Ff3NkSv8nlCiIOQCRpORPGbI4/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxODXJTSTFtfyoIulPzsTIdhPYm9EfumtyhjZwjflXJ-Vw6iAwR6c6CjyatdmJFSFDP1x1IYNrURmBuHbnQy_pBjfFR-YBiHeP7eL0NM8-DNMzUYoahFtWH3exjyHZ-IJTAfmC1hSUic/s1600/IMG_9140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxODXJTSTFtfyoIulPzsTIdhPYm9EfumtyhjZwjflXJ-Vw6iAwR6c6CjyatdmJFSFDP1x1IYNrURmBuHbnQy_pBjfFR-YBiHeP7eL0NM8-DNMzUYoahFtWH3exjyHZ-IJTAfmC1hSUic/s1600/IMG_9140.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqFa8KTdWOlNkcEQvXJKNJPPd0anJ0Dl-WNpnP6Px4kSD_vD-4sQuSotiw2DX656Gz6h4gLOaTgVrcXe7gBvhh8bQT4qeQk08BKyxQ61OMhIYD6pfKNHks-49lnO73tR7G7V-vWSHvuU/s1600/IMG_9212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqFa8KTdWOlNkcEQvXJKNJPPd0anJ0Dl-WNpnP6Px4kSD_vD-4sQuSotiw2DX656Gz6h4gLOaTgVrcXe7gBvhh8bQT4qeQk08BKyxQ61OMhIYD6pfKNHks-49lnO73tR7G7V-vWSHvuU/s1600/IMG_9212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VOb2flfwaELxx0QG6T1RrbxvNOUrYarTKXGTyHp7GvR6k1UUU_EfDc226RLvKpnecZnVKynjFOuGB2QYcpi_4vPMzYJ4vQ0UzkaDE-ct1As9_OT9fflYh0T3ViWqPrcdgjof0fnY12Y/s1600/IMG_9141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VOb2flfwaELxx0QG6T1RrbxvNOUrYarTKXGTyHp7GvR6k1UUU_EfDc226RLvKpnecZnVKynjFOuGB2QYcpi_4vPMzYJ4vQ0UzkaDE-ct1As9_OT9fflYh0T3ViWqPrcdgjof0fnY12Y/s1600/IMG_9141.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCc0YDPfqZGSNXd-jC62UE7Eej1KArMPFQoiqhaytIGIvjOAoazQv3DDMkurlq2s-_xjePkXaIajRSXJihHqn7ZI9uQi2rThuJ35knvoXAXLS4AILMvhzW-zldkx4RVl2s76gNniO5O4/s1600/IMG_9210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCc0YDPfqZGSNXd-jC62UE7Eej1KArMPFQoiqhaytIGIvjOAoazQv3DDMkurlq2s-_xjePkXaIajRSXJihHqn7ZI9uQi2rThuJ35knvoXAXLS4AILMvhzW-zldkx4RVl2s76gNniO5O4/s1600/IMG_9210.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-I5XRdQypJj7jjXQTFBc7yfOw1XhVSt8dZfHJRqWF_aEra7A6HuI5uPY_TSXb413PPDCVRkf1s9JZPAd2agJk8gojQWjHG8pBn_768QHlX1TNfWfiNXo-UOQvDTgBeXoYi5DWT0TU8B0/s1600/IMG_9211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-I5XRdQypJj7jjXQTFBc7yfOw1XhVSt8dZfHJRqWF_aEra7A6HuI5uPY_TSXb413PPDCVRkf1s9JZPAd2agJk8gojQWjHG8pBn_768QHlX1TNfWfiNXo-UOQvDTgBeXoYi5DWT0TU8B0/s1600/IMG_9211.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4cOVJbtE_duBPzKgv7Od4OFsUxjny76dZyOtn4_FNKPZ1ZsDAeoPZBg_n3PLfLo3Vor88m3_ykAAmLXCBVHlfbbJOdxqdUqEK4uAUxkrRWFIN94N3MRu-wxzJl9Y2ZQxlHf56h0HLyc/s1600/IMG_9213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4cOVJbtE_duBPzKgv7Od4OFsUxjny76dZyOtn4_FNKPZ1ZsDAeoPZBg_n3PLfLo3Vor88m3_ykAAmLXCBVHlfbbJOdxqdUqEK4uAUxkrRWFIN94N3MRu-wxzJl9Y2ZQxlHf56h0HLyc/s1600/IMG_9213.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwZjTzYdw875qxHkkFYnqFjFolItSTcHUyUAsyzCWPbB2t47MWpcqjhx7xa3K2iZ0wR-jod21Rvd3qgx-4CCPmwX9tYhDnJ4MYZxbNKQL648q3AQw-Wnco-neJq3hee9nfP99NdoKTG0/s1600/IMG_9214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwZjTzYdw875qxHkkFYnqFjFolItSTcHUyUAsyzCWPbB2t47MWpcqjhx7xa3K2iZ0wR-jod21Rvd3qgx-4CCPmwX9tYhDnJ4MYZxbNKQL648q3AQw-Wnco-neJq3hee9nfP99NdoKTG0/s1600/IMG_9214.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After visiting Versailles, we headed back to Paris where we visited <a href="https://www.operadeparis.fr/en/visits/palais-garnier">Opéra Garnier</a>, also known as the Paris Opera House. It was the setting for Gaston Leroy's 1910 novel, The Phantom of the Opera. Of all of the book to theater adaptations, The Phantom of the Opera is by far my favorite. I cry every time I see it on broadway. Coming here was a very special and awing experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCz7iYZT0egUwjVKCb0LAV8N_AadpE7LZQe-5Z0eG5BJ_WaxlV1p0qN0JN_ZyOXiv86rpXOR1PYrRtWOLriv_ErGzkKhKBIIEi8jS49phqUGfuW6bv9-VaMzwl6f0fdIlEDixv8M_Pcv4/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCz7iYZT0egUwjVKCb0LAV8N_AadpE7LZQe-5Z0eG5BJ_WaxlV1p0qN0JN_ZyOXiv86rpXOR1PYrRtWOLriv_ErGzkKhKBIIEi8jS49phqUGfuW6bv9-VaMzwl6f0fdIlEDixv8M_Pcv4/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLKRT0fc5_ojycfFSKnb52Bz9EDvdMX8nBEY6k4p7gafUQDwANWkz0m7YwztftnusWtOLgMmtXq8pvEWf-abMocI8R7Q9t9Rg9yh5RBDPGHkEDzs4rCbqnib7fSYT2s63c9kk8iDQZRs/s1600/1AF70E58-68CA-48CF-B299-C5397CE6AE2D+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLKRT0fc5_ojycfFSKnb52Bz9EDvdMX8nBEY6k4p7gafUQDwANWkz0m7YwztftnusWtOLgMmtXq8pvEWf-abMocI8R7Q9t9Rg9yh5RBDPGHkEDzs4rCbqnib7fSYT2s63c9kk8iDQZRs/s1600/1AF70E58-68CA-48CF-B299-C5397CE6AE2D+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R1b6us-ILFyWuF8M9wPdjZeiw6zOvqInbYjsoW9FEECcmXTtrB6xnX9k4IXqNWkLxpzvL-hphyphenhyphenINbrlT_8L5JJEDZcZWKJVWX70nuYpi8EH8bT_-EWU85xvqnhNAMPeQG0n-pDf1v3M/s1600/04F959A2-BA2D-4A5B-81AB-5380BAC1D2A7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R1b6us-ILFyWuF8M9wPdjZeiw6zOvqInbYjsoW9FEECcmXTtrB6xnX9k4IXqNWkLxpzvL-hphyphenhyphenINbrlT_8L5JJEDZcZWKJVWX70nuYpi8EH8bT_-EWU85xvqnhNAMPeQG0n-pDf1v3M/s1600/04F959A2-BA2D-4A5B-81AB-5380BAC1D2A7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5UF8sdzkpwRZqIJc-URH2pShqvAhdJgfVBvLoNKMpzG-Ot-rPSDnQIH_LVc8ZLsjwCsigIMWrS6trPyhs5oxT7EX4rpogfrQiSNCQRh6VYeKi6Y2h3gg1K1Fwdiy6WMUA4tU1Tvs5X0/s1600/D86242E5-EF56-4DF5-8EDF-8707AE427966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5UF8sdzkpwRZqIJc-URH2pShqvAhdJgfVBvLoNKMpzG-Ot-rPSDnQIH_LVc8ZLsjwCsigIMWrS6trPyhs5oxT7EX4rpogfrQiSNCQRh6VYeKi6Y2h3gg1K1Fwdiy6WMUA4tU1Tvs5X0/s1600/D86242E5-EF56-4DF5-8EDF-8707AE427966.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Following our visit to the opera house, we decided to give to give the <a href="http://www.paris-arc-de-triomphe.fr/en/">Arc de Triomphe</a> one more chance. Sure enough, it was open and we were admitted inside. The climb to the very top was extremely tiring (284 steps in total), but the views were definitely worth it. It was a gloomy and dark day in Paris with on and off rain, but nonetheless, it offered the best aerial views of the Eiffel Tower and the city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPIXUeUyemJTCg_QDSlxjNlu9oJUbw95LSsNqzn35X6DfUoUmoy9OVcDy2BzFl6H7YDrBG_zThb64bzv-6azcP-gBZMdJOCqVJhthmPgVfANwZULbnIQ8lS-HMPrfq5sDAqbW_TcsU2A/s1600/1C7FF7BB-C28B-4384-B0D2-B9D95A4BF76B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPIXUeUyemJTCg_QDSlxjNlu9oJUbw95LSsNqzn35X6DfUoUmoy9OVcDy2BzFl6H7YDrBG_zThb64bzv-6azcP-gBZMdJOCqVJhthmPgVfANwZULbnIQ8lS-HMPrfq5sDAqbW_TcsU2A/s1600/1C7FF7BB-C28B-4384-B0D2-B9D95A4BF76B.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cY28CsUsg1PtgwWy2B64V47PVjyMbWGDyESsix66AN3lKN2X96YANfLPOLXIUWHupko58aNIkI5OFagKhjwiqW4Th4RZoUTe5hWAYf819BBb3cwT0Lca262fMOBtAorvFsPsB9BeSoc/s1600/46768CD6-B7F2-47C8-A410-FF75C83972DE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cY28CsUsg1PtgwWy2B64V47PVjyMbWGDyESsix66AN3lKN2X96YANfLPOLXIUWHupko58aNIkI5OFagKhjwiqW4Th4RZoUTe5hWAYf819BBb3cwT0Lca262fMOBtAorvFsPsB9BeSoc/s1600/46768CD6-B7F2-47C8-A410-FF75C83972DE.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINW4fzUzLCSbiMY2LPs1xRKhCE58aUPSxgPGiLbjS8dqz4Dm0rYfJkJUpSZLvmWmnc93z0DqTjGoisWY42vd5VauWHZohPjRu1-KLiU67Ai6Q-_dMFQsCoJWbd9pPd3L_l4xv0-Q6Vz4/s1600/74879018-E678-4B6B-B84D-10AD15AE249B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINW4fzUzLCSbiMY2LPs1xRKhCE58aUPSxgPGiLbjS8dqz4Dm0rYfJkJUpSZLvmWmnc93z0DqTjGoisWY42vd5VauWHZohPjRu1-KLiU67Ai6Q-_dMFQsCoJWbd9pPd3L_l4xv0-Q6Vz4/s1600/74879018-E678-4B6B-B84D-10AD15AE249B.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For dinner, we ate at Les Cocottes, where we dined on lobster ravioli and seared sea bass. The fish was excellent. I can't recommend it enough. We tried to order more, but they ran out of fish! The ice cream for dessert was kind of a let down though. For €9 for a small scoop of vanilla and mango ice cream, the taste and portion of the serving did not justify the price. The gelato in Italy was way better and more affordable...but I'll save that for the upcoming post.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzIpPmMrjrDbI3-cow1MgglX5m9ahG80W2dhthcR6AtOdpo8FspzwefCLIydTuNa64O7CciMRVdoIIJhAmXWzKPUDAXfZjmqHHMj199-hpbl8gAPtmeXZ89ZW2JlvUAQZoXU8KodyNBo/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="745" data-original-width="1080" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzIpPmMrjrDbI3-cow1MgglX5m9ahG80W2dhthcR6AtOdpo8FspzwefCLIydTuNa64O7CciMRVdoIIJhAmXWzKPUDAXfZjmqHHMj199-hpbl8gAPtmeXZ89ZW2JlvUAQZoXU8KodyNBo/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
To top off the night, we enjoyed the nightly views of the lit Eiffel Tower followed by a quick trip to <a href="https://www.laduree.fr/en/">Ladurée Paris</a>. There, we enjoyed pistachio, blackberry (my favorite), raspberry, and cafe flavored macarons. I hate to admit it, but as a skeptic of hyped up things, this experience did not disappoint. The macarons were actually better than the ones in Ladurée New York in my opinion. I don't care what anyone says...haha. I think that they are better!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeS5MnaSoXMIQ0iROhuCzr26_KZxu_igyqXUrDLrr_-UNoWOzuha8JsJdK0Z1HK112TZFotoRDsqdLoYZiLQZxBcPDMnZq8wND0FamErdWiPdlQ04prF8Y1wcZbopGW-6N05yHHs9cqw/s1600/F8DCDFCD-5F98-4268-9594-1E92197EA648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeS5MnaSoXMIQ0iROhuCzr26_KZxu_igyqXUrDLrr_-UNoWOzuha8JsJdK0Z1HK112TZFotoRDsqdLoYZiLQZxBcPDMnZq8wND0FamErdWiPdlQ04prF8Y1wcZbopGW-6N05yHHs9cqw/s1600/F8DCDFCD-5F98-4268-9594-1E92197EA648.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
...and just like that. Our three night, two day stay in Paris was over. It went by so fast, but we enjoyed ourselves. I still can't believe we did nearly everything on the itinerary. The only thing that we missed was a trip to Montmarte, but I'll save that city for another visit. My mom also somehow had a 20-minute with our Uber driver who only spoke French one evening which triggered the biggest look of confusion and shock on my face. It was really funny. I low key loved watching my parents trying to speak French. The first time I heard them try to speak French, I thought to myself, "Where did they learn that??" Augh, parents and their surprises...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4djIzPzHNGyOgmY4zLPk_uTQCqTg42Zy3GnvvDO1U4MlzpFxppyq6hZW4KDpJCGPjlxrhXgCCOTV2Ze1ITJIe3nGdvXS8K15tdsR3xgqQtjxi2PhL87WHaJ24CgOy63AfjCeNbb6-lE/s1600/IMG_6933+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="722" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4djIzPzHNGyOgmY4zLPk_uTQCqTg42Zy3GnvvDO1U4MlzpFxppyq6hZW4KDpJCGPjlxrhXgCCOTV2Ze1ITJIe3nGdvXS8K15tdsR3xgqQtjxi2PhL87WHaJ24CgOy63AfjCeNbb6-lE/s1600/IMG_6933+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Before I go, I just wanted to share one funny thing about Paris and Italy. Every time somebody would ask me for my name, I'd say, "Melissa" (pronounced MUH-LIH-SUH in English), and nobody would understand. This happened to me at restaurants, tourist attractions, and on the street. However, when I said, "MEH-LEE-SUH" or "MEH-LEE-SAH", I'd get an "Ahhh" response every single time. It was really funny and cute at the same time.
I hope you enjoyed part one of my European adventure. Stay tuned for part two: Venice!<br />
<br />
For those of you wondering, I shot my photos on a Fujifilm X-T20 versus my usual Canon or Sony cameras. As a new user, I faced several challenges trying to find the menus and dials to adjust the settings. Aside from those minor things, and the heaviness of the lens, I was very happy with how my photos turned out.<br />
<br />
If you have any questions, feel free to leave me a comment via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or Twitter <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>.
<br />
<br />
Until next time!<br />
<br />
Melissa
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0Paris, France48.856614 2.352221900000017748.6894645 2.0294984000000178 49.0237635 2.6749454000000177tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-12676657253683404252018-03-01T22:12:00.002-08:002018-03-01T22:12:21.808-08:00The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The truth shall set you free.</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Lately, I've been reevaluating areas of my life that need improvement. February was definitely a tough month. I was busy, stressed out, and losing a lot of sleep. Mentally and physically, I was at my capacity. Last night, I had my big "ah-ha" moment. I realized that I needed to declutter and simplify my life in order to be a happier person. It was time for yet another life overhaul.</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbhnb1L_eIps8-4BawzHRbwmYGpBZKm0-RLj4XIevTyMJV5bjuFzDle37HAIjaJ7_HQjnmqIR7Ovvc15ctLDC4dDvODeAItfBVYmt6HOG21A2iQOvPPmOSI97eYBVuzVDV4Gvbp0Fn0s/s1600/40B5F666-7DE4-4595-B979-476CD77A0517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbhnb1L_eIps8-4BawzHRbwmYGpBZKm0-RLj4XIevTyMJV5bjuFzDle37HAIjaJ7_HQjnmqIR7Ovvc15ctLDC4dDvODeAItfBVYmt6HOG21A2iQOvPPmOSI97eYBVuzVDV4Gvbp0Fn0s/s1600/40B5F666-7DE4-4595-B979-476CD77A0517.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Today, I recalled Marie Kondo's book, <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-style: italic; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up</span>. There was one section the book that really stood out, "Selection Criterion: Does it spark joy?" The concept is simple. Take an item and ask yourself, "'Does this spark joy?' If it does, keep it. If not, dispose of it." That's exactly what I did today. I cleaned everything: my personal space, digital space, and mental space. Clean slate. No negative thoughts. Positive thoughts only.</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguiWAVxDcgVrh2S-gAdC08mGOcmHruIYNWuvvJxVPemRJyEjF5_-FQL9Q7UcPmgVpc4Z7ySXCGrbto-PimGEUum-V_qp0m0iHwMutbJ7EdODRNNvKsibAj5pCBs4GYshECVp5lekQlrQM/s1600/767F20B9-E9FD-4784-98A5-C2220A2E5558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguiWAVxDcgVrh2S-gAdC08mGOcmHruIYNWuvvJxVPemRJyEjF5_-FQL9Q7UcPmgVpc4Z7ySXCGrbto-PimGEUum-V_qp0m0iHwMutbJ7EdODRNNvKsibAj5pCBs4GYshECVp5lekQlrQM/s1600/767F20B9-E9FD-4784-98A5-C2220A2E5558.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: 9px;"> A special rose gold Kate Spade engraved pendant from my best friend that reads on the back, "One in a million."</span></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Time to start off March on the right foot.</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
With Europe right around the corner, I couldn't be more excited. Travel helps me to recenter, refocus, and rejuvenate. France and Italy will be so much fun, and I'm looking forward to new cultural experiences. I've been studying up on my French and Italian so it will be fun to use some of my foreign language skills abroad.</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbK6KdvH8qVJAVQJf5MW34XNNH5JHsNrhMe8AwQD3PxH2jzK1OorjZ59qzWeZaPRlJuhNajAT2CMzNaCuKjaKZUMFMfr7GkxJPeYVTXrU0Vd3r03g3mkM4smy_MG4fMQkHERPghw5oSk/s1600/D0BC0E33-A64B-49E3-BF75-8A76F0FDA702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1226" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbK6KdvH8qVJAVQJf5MW34XNNH5JHsNrhMe8AwQD3PxH2jzK1OorjZ59qzWeZaPRlJuhNajAT2CMzNaCuKjaKZUMFMfr7GkxJPeYVTXrU0Vd3r03g3mkM4smy_MG4fMQkHERPghw5oSk/s1600/D0BC0E33-A64B-49E3-BF75-8A76F0FDA702.jpg" width="489" /></a></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Before I go, I just wanted to share one of my favorite French sayings, "J'ai choisi ce que je voulais être et je le suis," which roughly translates to, "I chose what I wanted to be and that is what I am." I am proud of who I am and how far I have come. Life hasn't always been easy, but I've grown so much in the past two years. I've become more confident in my skills and abilities as well as what I want out of life. I feel extremely comfortable in my skin, and that makes me very happy. I believe that the key is to be yourself. With that said, I will see you all after I return from Europe with another travel blog post!</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Until next time,</div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="font_8" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-80987746608143884242018-02-19T07:42:00.002-08:002018-02-19T08:25:32.597-08:00Happy New Year!<div>
Happy Lunar New Year, everyone! It's now officially the year of the dog! I wish all of you a happy and prosperous year filled with lots of adventures and lovely new memories. For those of you born in the year of the dog, may you have a lucky year ahead! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For those of you unfamiliar with Lunar New Year, it is based on the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar (aka phases of the moon), and is usually celebrated in January or February each year. The date will change depending on the phase of the moon. This year, we celebrated Lunar New Year on Friday, February 16th. Lunar New Year celebrations can last anywhere from several days to up to a month. It is predominately celebrated in Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean cultures, but has of course expanded to include many other cultures as time goes on. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lunar New Year is usually celebrated with festivals, special foods (like rice cakes and sweets), games, music, fresh florals, and lots of fresh fruit. It's a really fun and special time in my family, and we enjoy celebrating the Lunar New Year as well as the Full Moon Festival in the fall. My siblings and I like to read our Chinese zodiac horoscopes for fun.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Want to find out your Chinese horoscope for 2018? Find out <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://www.horoscope.com/us/horoscopes/yearly/2018-chinese-horoscope-overview.aspx">here</a></span>.</div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4C9XG2jpR91VmSw7DmajXkC5pP8uQ5bl8KtEv_ClU0cHGuyO4r8YJyYJ8n5wVvqCMkVXE9HF916vb0AKMIAhgrjJx5uwW6-Iu6_LFTQ2fply5iG3lOHUyqF558W74b9pukdRENhowwOg/s1600/F527F33C-B73E-4A99-A801-23E699F50A05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4C9XG2jpR91VmSw7DmajXkC5pP8uQ5bl8KtEv_ClU0cHGuyO4r8YJyYJ8n5wVvqCMkVXE9HF916vb0AKMIAhgrjJx5uwW6-Iu6_LFTQ2fply5iG3lOHUyqF558W74b9pukdRENhowwOg/s1600/F527F33C-B73E-4A99-A801-23E699F50A05.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
This weekend, I wore an authentic silk set in honor of the lunar new year. My parents brought it back for me several years ago on their visit to the homeland. I'm glad that I can still fit it! Happy new year! It's going to be a great one!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-86294093620704775032018-02-12T17:35:00.000-08:002018-02-12T20:29:22.612-08:00Go Shawty, It's Yo Birthday<div>
Another year, another milestone! 20 years ago, my parents took us on our very first family vacation. Our first stop was Seattle, Washington. Things were different back then. It was the first time I had boarded an airplane, the first time that I had left California, and the first time that I had spent a hot and sticky summer in an unfamiliar city. Since then, I've grown more and more in love with traveling. It seemed fitting to spend my birthday in the city that had started it all for me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1OqnBopCtW_7zJ761EBNSuV11tAyTVAXOoBH4gT_XmYWAVr5IjG0YqO8sCPMXy5etCB87GZ3DNVsLhpy_bKMdIbiEbK-ClTlMxzEbwZjQCkuhF6ai7yCPLy55N6zk2czuP9wpVXf-498/s1600/8BBE134E-6AED-4CF8-BE8B-15061C7D6BE3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6jDOEcb2UJbbL4ugJjrpqltH4u9avUKB8vZEbOOlf3Nq4iXsKU7n8tP4istnKyKgsKcppQ23k8tcA50ZljxoCm95QR1x6Q_tuh3Vl9AQrZ2pbk2KSy20tnyrZybdv15tonCuaDHqKRg/s1600/LRG_DSC08015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 1 - FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I flew out of town on Friday after work in great spirits. The flight was quite short, about 2.5 hours from Southern California. The first evening in Seattle was clear and brisk. The city was quiet but nonetheless beautiful and glowing. The first order of business was dinner and happy drinks at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediauie" href="https://taqueriacantina.com/">Taqueria Cantina</a></span>. The house-made chips and salsa were perfection, and the vegetarian, chicken, and carne asada tacos were thick and flavorful. After dinner, it was time for some shut eye at the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediamr0" href="http://www.acehotel.com/seattle">ACE Hotel Seattle</a></span>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHF_KfkzEQQt27kaVa1JoUy3YLnzP4h4tIjh9IdwbxKWoNW80ymPDbjEU5OMuhMcQ-nylGjy63UFLxzCB_3UZNcmNbg8ve7qHy_h_iEdiEW5k3YIVw6bboIdspcYni-52r8XRvtJoJ8o/s1600/IMG_3515.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEdlLO1adkKcvt2MHTAMFKlh44coQR4Mc2u3Ew-KbDwU0d0Vo7byG0RsV_6qwpZ_pWvl6icaLzt82XZ71-4bZPAn1j_jUPO5OdZsX9AnoHPIm6nOLlYJQOFCkxH1k_rLJ4KBaKeSh7Gw/s1600/AEC79E3D-2727-4F6C-A38B-123C986D288F.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 2 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rise and shine! The view outside of our hotel was gorgeous. Walking down the hall in the morning, I caught a glimspe of the sunrise and glistening water outside. We started out our morning at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1df0" href="http://macrinabakery.com/">Macrina Bakery & Cafe</a></span> for some coffee and scrambled eggs. The latte was amazing and the eggs were fluffy and topped with some fresh herbs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IdM2qXNRFrojrc_3idaqY6XDpSwcylw_zFOOtEwR46fikQPBDNBSLOnXbMkFGa6nOKMI20qhU35IzRYawQDq1l0B87hHnzit0Prf_N-rgNGExJHk4hcUEy-DYgkFvBhqRBwvBUZvIBU/s1600/3A7A63B6-D914-4861-B26A-9F224699EC51.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next stop: Doughnuts! We found ourselves at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia82m" href="http://www.toppotdoughnuts.com/">Top Pot Doughnuts</a></span>, a cute, two story book themed donut shop. I ordered the Bavarian Creme Chocolate Doughnut, and my friend got the Raspberry Glazed Doughnut. Both doughnuts were moist and delicious. Not too sweet, and just the right fluffy texture. I can't lie...the Bavarian Creme Chocolate Doughnut was probably my favorite flavor between the two flavors.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-A8M1-lxTlp3WsoD7vyIFM0mRn033AO2a9lRqcNohVPQ2k0IE7ApwxO0J60jgOlasmFTXz0YNfCUFeoM5Mg091eBPbHKgDaYAeYnfUqKASTH5vsgmeQeJVYULXxAQIV0qgkV7w87FdqA/s1600/84A3CEB1-6C7A-4760-86B7-8C49572BA9FC.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgX2RBOP3Lkdzy5aS8rfBVW0AHNf0C89w0h0J-_oOawv484NzVsDthTYy44yL5dOgL2TZNnvNdRhlr8T_WXdGIKddRuRIVuASKkQCfiTHrnq8m3abUsVJBvwhZC9uQmEHmTEri5byNaC8/s1600/90D8F5A1-E7A7-4AD9-8855-AA0193E3F8B7.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_fK-rx0L11XaevWJXqxJLcAqqJeYHDzPsWZ1l3bV-cxaOji7CCyDhIdkEbD-ukrbjhYOcIVFEhjgAG0khnnUTAPjPpjzxmO8bKLEN8_f6LlX3mvm1PxhYBBaBWwlT6467ifEZF0sTAo/s1600/802FAE24-310F-47A3-94C5-B8A981F9D5CE.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Afterward, we headed to<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediaxm3" href="http://www.elliottbaybook.com/"> The Elliot Bay Book Company</a></span>, a two story bookstore filled with curated books and staff recommendations. I loved the selection, and found the shop much easier to navigate than Powell's in Portland. We spent a while in the bookstore browsing books, reading excerpts, and scrolling through staff recs. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVFu3YxwhivRkzHAJJLfDdmppucmf0P8Z-H0GqXHzJTTWyrdnSlFUKZfxGgOt3hsi5gm-FNzMSMDGvSEVJ0cJdDc4G6WeCIFKf5AYQlgpeKwDAxXuxy90xiAUdGwTkl-scEpLo4ytBL0/s1600/4E2FBA92-A858-4898-8D95-85549D97F41F.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglll7mfm_bZKPdlBIXfBTqxhMbOChX0QM_Cr2FvI0AVnoLvMbM45TLe2y8-Xsn-Ec7kS1RjMIOk_EuRBmPZLpchbKFAcqQX1nthffDLQJicMjO8o8f-SYR2BZdMpIi9LRc1tpg0rvDSeo/s1600/8DC42CAB-ED71-462B-AEB1-379B607D617C.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thereafter, we browsed the multiple boutiques and curated shops along the streets before settling in for great big bowls of veggie ramen at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1gb2" href="http://www.ooinkwa.com/">Ooink</a></span>. It was bustling during lunch hour, with customers waiting outside of the door for a table. The broth was thick, savory, and delicious. I almost half expected the broth to be quite salty, but it was actually the perfect amount of saltiness and savoriness. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-At-Ud2QZIAL9o8Os3EOjAYiRiFHfVjNekVrM_MhEZfoD7Drgu-Nz0B0W1OcNPso8C11asv4tg41RZPiHDdMRrQsbRmO0Hxfdb4tX6ld8kpPIKIiCJS_hoXP85PVXYowjlXzTO5ref5k/s1600/45BD135B-67D1-4216-BB08-DADD144CE555.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS_IBmoTco0BBqQdcZ6N8pdXsAefVrh5JfDRerv8dEtiPUXGTMtXTmMBFhkahlQL9V0CjyRnSvc00Ex2iNVcSSYOUuN7exd84xENRm15KsLYNAOMQLfVF5a31ayXGUcnR_EvSPjU-SL4/s1600/IMG_3700.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, lunch in Seattle wouldn't be complete without dessert! We headed to <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1v0d" href="http://www.mollymoon.com/">Molly Moon's Handmade Ice Cream</a></span> after ramen. I had to pick Honey Lavender Ice Cream on a sugar cone. That is my absolute weakness pretty much everywhere I go, with coffee coming in at a close second place. As if ice cream wasn't enough, we got even more doughnuts at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia19vc" href="https://www.gpdoughnuts.com/">General Porpoise</a></span>. I got us rose cream and lemon custard doughnuts. They were the best cream filled doughnuts I've ever had. Seriously. Not too sweet, and so so fragrant. I'm a big fan of lemon flavored desserts, so that really hit the spot!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gOuJ7cuFHXUUVrI-NajgV6HOtUlfG0iqMOusPWa9TQbayC-bZSPcSsMwIiLhOGVjk26eY-o7TqUJDyNz8MW5bHa0kmryWOc2vyV2mSdRtziWIeF1VdB_BiilvA9LLa_YtvfhDie_ZAA/s1600/FF4E081B-234B-4BD8-A406-06A72A831A5B.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next up, we visited the Jimi Hendrix statue before heading over to<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia6vb" href="https://www.chihuly.com/"> Chihuly Garden and Glass</a></span>. The glass exhibition was a marvel to see. My favorite exhibit was the glass flower installation inside the glasshouse. I loved the way the light from the glasshouse illuminated the sculpture. The immense size and intricacy of the design made the piece such a spectacle to witness.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1yKnLL-GoKIetqyUp6WGmF1odT99t4TkMjiutKJ_DgIRL2vZz0e3EWezyZwrCecGtDgEZh47bo69nRH1vDLMRfBSEVEPkh7tkfyzzARlVt6Cinl1E8gMncKqdaR_N5SukzmvyU-IOEE8/s1600/3F555FFD-967F-4026-9A57-2B053FF59442+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdg8FJSAjLGMbIerDtcG1yil63adLF5CVIhR4eCby0G4K7GyN00qM55d3ixhjP5RwZWXKfGqQBhRDIgRcFyy5KbZuKFNbmVnXAV3qkLeVPZC6EhRwFsSo0B2Gf45gMOFACg81RAqGnSc/s1600/C9E4A23E-B6E1-48E4-B33C-5DA0AE4A821A+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPF6f0GxixAEMndz5MwBRek__s4AYlCdLRicoWOW_GaMxVQ69iq6Wvw4hmq0RyNGKVFRdh9YqNfrX2cqygRKox_NStbUI5O_1bQSUe2v7f8aNFeNtBus6Uz_px14_5t8BDk02LMSMMbSM/s1600/LRG_DSC07838.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1xQfNKhrUuD70-vqIxqXZGhNgWuB5Z431GbRE1YsTZJdKBuML9ELiRFwFOhV72iqs2Hs0yRVYDiHj9niv7enCWwSuUBD69CJ2bZp0oP-LjgK5khJpZSfSeY-oPoTELI3OftQflomdjgw/s1600/LRG_DSC07857.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBYrof9Mjv2NFVPAGzeZi9WbFJ6jW97LLjjSZlo-urHPoErBNMbw0LM8oegpW6a6E8B7PsqFYxtqR1u0vi4ThGttqHfDv-3cy3NlEX326SQcyOrjewTrCTSZfjIwqg5XvtUYYwFeScAw/s1600/LRG_DSC07858.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_ZK24OV1iuut6gkEOmtlXz2ovCv69JUyRKdIbog9Mc5EWNvtrCE5ll4h5w_HWz_TeIoB3o8-spNr-xSZHszPziDi8Oipl5GJqJE-D682rLZpb4yTa-3BGZr0mpqqD-_OOkKRuitkGw8/s1600/LRG_DSC07862.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGVXzZnVUiYc2KKmPGQd3QsHQTOAeMtRcD_yUozUwJfA1S4ceeut-uN6-F_5yhY69EQnihO7aAMZNWQWPa6sl1nCzKh7skix8dej_EBzHn2h_kdUvlz_s0Ou3clXtoNZD_8cdtwZtVD4/s1600/36E0612F-F093-4284-A96F-76B84EA7FCD6+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92pRE33_EX8L6QZmM9spxY-28HS_drVllxyJc5tFtS6GN2FuJv12iYm_nbBfaLHBr3CFRL2PmYK0O4MfhRh-KP6yBLeWSZF4rFgXenKP0whUUjHi4_8wMg1ijZQ1aJe7201lfVNScq6U/s1600/D4E5570E-4A61-477D-812A-15B30C794788.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiam7gP8ELuEPpEJBfQTJuBZZrL9OSFsvUsY_ELLfmxCT-693eUE60bgQ1vtKMITkOAYSU07gheuhBChCMGZiKMD1jCKSBRlATVDbphc3gz1Vex9Zo6GIMBQ8iNidCR7hy1hcGoZ4KMy0/s1600/897D182A-882A-4D40-9F20-954E0F76725A.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlseQIQHFIK9pwdZvao_D_RHXI-8Z8-FV3y8bWVLDpgX_NjnbZAyCv5QWW1htMh3Su7SlTziCoQzZF-c7N5YS4c6gktFn_Ad_xE9DY6g-qaFMJOiA-K99vo7vBYrhtQoxU3hUdvMhN_0/s1600/IMG_3893.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One of my favorite highlights of the day was getting to go to the top of the <a href="https://www.spaceneedle.com/home/">Space Needle</a> during magic hour. We got beautiful glimpse of the city and the sun getting ready to set over the water. As a kid, I had always wondered what it would be like to go to the very top. Growing up, we didn't really have the luxury of riding to the top, so getting to finally do it was a real treat.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FNqBlXvEpHUPuIiHaCvObrxhwhhqnHkpz-j-EsQBInmTfmR6vpz4hL6DrNaFhyj5c8LLAL6MYgeBThVPH2YrHfKM6Be8AEslyx2s99v9JTbqaZqn9vvaaO_MoRDuKL2mUzCd4WXDjhA/s1600/B24D6573-95DF-4BD6-ABD0-28C63EEAADA3+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxijEzhCUa7w5I_YmU607OYbccx7znOKTft2muau1EREfy9xVLZxMwwYDW4g1593wprBsjnEQmOHonUAk46_i7CPSDQYccWQKSsTAxNmE-6plcifOyJHIRefxxNkhnqwfVhKVrkhaMdk/s1600/Snapseed+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPBD5Sojqjkc3ngZblBvK8CUA-13dL7bx8H2sVnDAbbx1d3KX3FHLDi5lfkvE5_5iyVuahOH-dQS1tmMeLo3W-1lCJnjHty-_606SbfiGxP_cbtuTdBtQ2jkOEBNsSeBkEG5vuuV84BA/s1600/IMG_3866.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeIqw6uXlHqXj9Th-rJPFTP-LgWb0J8FFnj0CTJjVX53pYr6mXtZbDi90B3vleVR39JHelOoik2uxOKQrqJMxfjSOrd7hlZdeEJp1VwpCEQxZnvRm7-oqGlJECXPSe33JH_aOdOrVzEc/s1600/Snapseed+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
To wrap up the day, we headed out to <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia18qu" href="https://www.seriouspieseattle.com/">Serious Pie</a></span> for some local eats, and <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1thr" href="https://www.lolaseattle.com/">Lola</a></span> for some drinks before calling it a night. I recommend the egg, proscuitto, and arugula pizza from Serious Pie and the Pomegranate 76 Cocktail from Lola! Both did not disappoint!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY 2 - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our final day was mellow. We started out the day having breakfast and coffee at our hotel. I struggled pretty hard with the waffle machine. It was quite laughable until my friend and the housekeeping lady came to my rescue. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After breakfast, we headed to <a href="http://pikeplacemarket.org/">Pike Place Market</a>. When we arrived, we were met with a spectacular view of the ferris wheel and the water. It was there that I saw the biggest seagull I've ever seen in my life. It didn't even flinch when I came right up to it! Really crazy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7i3QUdZ_ZZ1Tk4EudKJqFJD3k3tD9Gpjrl-X3IEG9TK2uSijj7E9kB2XlO844tB24T3SiU4LtNhb5AOZw-Vv6u8sPsuDOykNkvyqt10Vwdy7_MwOKkUbWtmvu_8JbewsE7E_wffhH8JA/s1600/D2EF0B2F-3A16-4C65-8A40-9C851E332A08.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9q0U-WXOcDbqm3OIe4VSWm9rc3vWiMEvS1nKajJIa_p8aXm4iF9ImDsN_dzTaVpK2hOzO4iXipXlOgbErPu34eRxuG7LCgaxWO-n5j5B1lBaIvtNW5QILrVk8jUyftclCcB4qIuLvmw/s1600/93F0B3BB-1F82-49EB-A58E-D2BE71678083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMOZ2on1sEYsFcmcR1LfTGbV1glR7ziLytwFdHH8L6uVbhDxPcBafgDtVFA1t3iFePWQyCe8Gox8-hvyX2wld0K7PqfUR1rMRSi7rf5DE1ZTAXCbAjO6WZ_WSJWIIOEblVRs56zHtyvk/s1600/CE7CAEA4-EC3E-4C03-8910-5CE470E6A600.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_q4n2xSViYoE3aoi2NQbxo7D2ISJCT8FB7xNf3KJVtnPuFc5Zzepe9KMjkCwMz7rdocu11IJD1zBTWhuaAAU-cB3IaMWm-UrUgKrIb2_RHVmelHDenc8M2DCbmtQoyb7guLfWSf-UmSk/s1600/BCA00CF0-415E-48A7-9806-5DAAE1DE2D4B.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOo8A4YWFIalBw6yPHccCRIS5ci5s60x5LVy4fQXC6b5ba1NxZUcS5ZzmEoBbyLvRaFFBrGOB0uI_VIKxm-CAYyvlqBVSW488n7EAnfRDCpTnSO_80mlJIt1u66N4MvvkxppRO8hy2320/s1600/73587B81-43DD-4D10-A52E-7BA01C7B1229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3R08l9t6pEeCC8amPustMLBYzxgVPDanP10TVRCJZiRw6RSWAKNEfngtGb0KojASXS-Eipnike3HCeuLR1M0oKjbYnFxmjxM-cK1GwpE-NxAKwVBMqLA3mir8ca_0lQqvPJoYaAi5t9k/s1600/AC31F0E4-522B-49EE-B2CF-0ABB7FE68057.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYl3Xm03wVvrst6GKqYZ4ReD9Hb8xxQ3GTeXeQ5yc0ySfPqS4MZLdXOE43pZpCjL0R14ZSaA-lBXm8Xe-EwrKwNYYjTCqozJ8Sl1qoi9Z0pXL-fM4OQ8xwz2nAeb8tk3ElvJ3rSles_4/s1600/ACA53FA9-C6BE-407F-8CFD-53A83499CE87.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3uBRERY_vtNsgMzQ2uWg30inXiOO74kfUmYFYLIqUuWHs4GnS4b_WiRMUPb1tAH9U7vEY3sXurNOdh8chxNBOeCXfV9v49MKLLipIOhRUGpzccm1gyg_eL1V_3EOoFHUtGvNszsrqG0/s1600/CC010CD2-26E4-4B00-B102-A06CB63DFC37.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
We met up with another friend at the market for some coffee at <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1i67" href="http://ghostalleyespresso.com/">Ghost Alley Espresso</a></span> before checking out the infamous gum wall. The gum wall was a bit underwhelming. I loved the alley a lot and played a lot with shadows on my camera. Have a look for yourself!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2ku9hV2yrIyorMqnZSMmRSQBZdN7ZnNPvwMWymG972hP1PKZD-bpxkeUFuuHbtqM_ENZrc2dITv_4Y2kbILWXQlxlXEC57G-YUB1ssrqN3HSMDo4lpNeEBtT1NQTu6ELMcGxLdofPFQ/s1600/ED4C0EE0-A297-4E07-8328-9C104360A96F.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next, we went to visit the first Starbucks location before heading into <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1dpw" href="http://pikeplacemarket.org/">Pike Place Market</a></span> to build our very own tulip bouquets! That was definitely my favorite part of the day. Getting to catch up and laugh with friends while getting create was definitely a great way to start out the morning! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd52coa1_SshCx_XJeRfHlTCO19jz9ZIYPE0WtZ0fXS6KNKk5X6fQLv8xyesybWijP1evoOCJFKgUXCFKi_trduCCJQ89YjYeDQZGTTLzZiJuTw7pnW2YdpsTaOFlhlP5fN1ODrkBZoEk/s1600/E59B0FBA-20A9-4255-9C49-7490F4BF7F02.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyPi6GxWJMndFPd23VdMbR_ReWPnBNpFJPUskO5Hc6eCD3vL6xD5CWCZO2YbVptEMBZGPoz8jrWAD04i5vl8BgGst70ttp-nrCs9mm_O6Y5_lDlRVbb1tDt-Zub4Go-xf1tG_ZCbGXVZo/s1600/IMG_4014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCI0pXUVjDxI8OIGYybWf5B1EdqdVy1J9znwo4o2-SKbvF0fImg4Wt1viavM2qSdF4vvBVyF7fXAuqQmMVg7c2CefTaMnfpuHJgx2EsMY3VfQCM9TJQDgLUoFWwGGoaOmniCAE61aulo/s1600/LRG_DSC08014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqWzGaxBywifX0dKnrCi2iPBBnd5Hz6bBwrUoOGufNfbDZWdRmhyphenhyphenRg09qhNNXSvw2vyYol09sT9HmhKU9mek4eXaBdDS9PKizXGEVLE50veEnckaOvYmrdqRiEDlB7U39UeOMjtgJ4A0/s1600/6E76B7CC-D3F7-4F3F-AB9E-31B939A8C55E.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The morning flew by quickly, with lunch hurrying around the corner. We decided to grab a quick bite at the ever so popular, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1fjv" href="http://thecrumpetshop.com/">Crumpet Shop</a></span>. I had never eaten a crumpet prior to this experience, so my expectations were pretty low. I ordered the wild smoked salmon with cream cheese and cucumber crumpet as well as the lemon curd ricotta cheese crumpet. Both had a crispy bottom and a fluffy layer of crumpet. The toppings were light but extremely flavorful! I also ordered an Earl Grey tea with a splash of almond milk and organic honey. I haven't stopped thinking about it since.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After lunch, we headed to the dock to board the Seattle ferry to visit Bainbridge Island for dessert. The ferry was cheap for a roundtrip fare, rounding off at a little past eight dollars. The ride was peaceful and scenic. It was the prettiest 30 minute ferry ride that I've been on. On arrival, we headed straight to <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedialve" href="http://moraicecream.com/">Mora Iced Creamery</a></span> where both my friend and I ordered the signature Blackberry (Mora) ice cream. It was so creamy, with blackberry bits throughout. That was by far, my favorite dessert on the trip hands down. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XAPLBkpp7Z-ya4OvFly4moYKfna4oVFjEaZXRSREX9nE5fBnvuO1tm-vgK8taH14j1eh3-z7UObTfZi2-z8V70Dl93r2SVtiI7quauzjHXMdXcSZ_DAeobaUedDgnH3_OF5dPDUhS-0/s1600/E176BDD3-B523-43D4-97E1-A08A4B619296.JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday">https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghg-gj4zra5lK4oysWGXX2_oQydIb350m1RFM-oS78NMinXTt8Ln8TT9kywuFLlsKAwgDBMncyiyAGABU3S7Bml7BcU4v8bwjg9Xd7UT-7dO6vJE0aPN-O-QumzjKVatlNigKrraXKcaE/s1600/ED738E7C-5A0E-4845-8711-F7960F5FE4A6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After the ferry ride, it was time to head to the airport. Our weekend trip was finally coming to an end. I loved the city, the food, the weather, the people, and the open-mindedness attitude of the city. Seattle, you easy take a top spot of favorite U.S. cities in my list next to New York City and Chicago. I had an amazing birthday weekend!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm looking forward to another year of experiences, memories, and travel. Thank you to everyone who reached out to me today on my birthday. I feel quite lucky to have you all in my life. Really. I wouldn't be the person I am today without all of you. Love you all with my heart!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next stop: Paris! See you soon!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/02/12/Go-Shawty-Its-Yo-Birthday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw8SaRIvyaMxoB_TsJh2Fi2ZWVFzE1_7oYR-jQvOkkg2K_Pp8k0g7aoKXT-_GFap_pZtG8QhB_VkfqaUG6k2PLnukTTT8LVaSq4Mp8PAP3v9yMrswVzhtCBuIZAACO7vE0ib2fAq2_zY/s1600/0399207B-6063-4E66-A533-26B43B7CB435.JPG" width="480" /></a><span id="goog_269382363"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_269382364"></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-25621571629138956972018-01-13T14:36:00.002-08:002018-01-14T08:08:04.938-08:00Roman Holiday<div>
Who doesn't love a good Audrey Hepburn classic? This past week, I did the unthinkable and got a fringe. It reminded me so much of Audrey's look in<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>the movie,<span style="font-style: italic;"> Roman Holiday </span>(my favorite classic movie), that I decided to recreate her look. It's never too early to plan my outfit for my upcoming trip Italy, am I right? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kX_MEb9q7bhNZ6CjgxzFE6xvNM7MD1iSScryGAwQG7ttJ0BxhtQc4vnv8SUtgk_DTaZeXmmayy9ZpK5R7zS5ik-Pm6du1LCLFi02wcditiOn2hmiMFCiZd-jiPeCySxkF2Axmhg8s5U/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="500" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kX_MEb9q7bhNZ6CjgxzFE6xvNM7MD1iSScryGAwQG7ttJ0BxhtQc4vnv8SUtgk_DTaZeXmmayy9ZpK5R7zS5ik-Pm6du1LCLFi02wcditiOn2hmiMFCiZd-jiPeCySxkF2Axmhg8s5U/s1600/giphy.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
I paired a white short sleeve button down blouse from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1x51" href="https://www.unique-vintage.com/">Unique Vintage</a></span> with a pair of old culottes I have from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia14gg" href="https://www.hm.com/entrance.ahtml?orguri=%2F">H&M</a></span>. For accessories, I wore my silk scarf from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1uqq" href="https://www.madewell.com/">Madewell</a></span> and a pair of gold studs from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediawjb" href="https://www.instagram.com/purreboutique/">Purre Boutique</a></span>. So far, I've kept to my resolution of trying to save more money and pulled all of these items from my closet. Hooray for savings!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/13/Roman-Holiday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgms5Mwyf3YjDgoTrmva20X4esLSzP4RYMhQnrWEqNvLOx0EmopY2OmtswQvVnKr3ewcCq2qGwg4cy-K2kPgMelEVUmopgSx_3aGu-1Vxs7lVj3ZrW45LNkvcwIwRQCrNCtKAp-8K9bLzA/s1600/9C2E978D-4CB3-4124-95E6-E0646DD27142.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Blouse - Unique Vintage • Culottes - H&M • Silk Scarf - Madewell</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/13/Roman-Holiday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMmun2918dEdusiTq4dbqvUcGkkIRGQqzYh0ZQSOTzEzUBVxuOTqwrtqy-v-LfZz6cJdVcClPyqixGB1hDoIiCerw3JJzGB9LEOgZmpsKuL0R1w5qC58W9NTgNs01FpVYqu9_RbkjLTUM/s1600/F9D569B7-3A67-4658-8B2E-04FC3B9DB4EA.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Back to the fringe.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's been a decade since I've had them, but I thought it would be a good change to an already great year. I went to a trusted hairdresser who gave me a fun, yet versatile fringe. What I love about the new look is that I can wear it front and center (long fringe), off to the side (short fringe - "Audrey fringe"), or comb them completely to the side (no fringe). If you're curious as to what they look like, I posted a video on my Instagram highlights <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediafak" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">here</a></span>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/13/Roman-Holiday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2goyztRdL-h9-WG8Ods4d0kYDSxC_TFA4nEy5xlgAg04iWzIo80-o87ZSmGWMngiwglIeFVUkiHO_YqeHS26uYT5n8BEc-8IDHKV1ihuofEitKzsG-Meya1xaVfHTrh5m8KrwFtC5fU/s1600/A3E962C2-CB78-4B47-95F7-79E19C2894D5.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/13/Roman-Holiday">Add caption</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/13/Roman-Holiday"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdDPKImxiTMYZaDQGy76Qc08xeGK_cGdwnKdPQekkirqJSSaCZryaIv21XfADmqKOQglGQvt7UOd5ub5a_D0OfJRT2DpvcPNn4FYjQ2bPydCPQtzj4utbKtMpfIYqqH-48vxXMNg6xKAU/s1600/A8D883C2-D99C-4F44-A836-82B033154EA3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcnQ5a4sgCRrlKWfasbfoCgRMaVNmFTiDVUqnpEgWCUdyePuBLXkiTsw9R-DMP9t-2WELWzWX2-eFjeZ00KTQSgMt56hdFa78yoFXTadtI88pgh9-wyH1ZFISCI1XTi-komHOX90ELBM/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcnQ5a4sgCRrlKWfasbfoCgRMaVNmFTiDVUqnpEgWCUdyePuBLXkiTsw9R-DMP9t-2WELWzWX2-eFjeZ00KTQSgMt56hdFa78yoFXTadtI88pgh9-wyH1ZFISCI1XTi-komHOX90ELBM/s1600/image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">via Google Images</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What do you think of the fringe style? Love it? Hate it? Would you sport it? Feel free to leave me a comment on my blog, or on <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia10zn" href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a></span> or <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia13gg" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a></span> via <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia6t9" href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a></span>. I look forward to hearing from you all. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-28980705906626244702018-01-01T20:40:00.001-08:002018-01-01T20:48:57.630-08:00Good Vibes Only<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Happy New Year!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
I hope you all had a wonderful and festive holiday weekend! I spent much of my weekend purging my room of old clothing, accessories, and shoes. In total, I managed to donate four trash bags worth of clothes. How crazy is that?! It feels great to start the year off with a minimal closet. I'm a changed woman (for now).</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
As for my new year resolutions, I'd like to spend less money clothing, continue learning French and Italian, continue my volunteer work, and hopefully get into grad school. I've been vigorously working on these resolutions since last year, so I'm gradually but surely making my way there. French has been a little bit difficult to learn, but I enjoy the challenge. Any tutors out there? Just kidding.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2018/01/01/Good-Vibes-Only"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirN4SrDpvp-r8_GtgdaR0XU9s9fJ3n1-jTlsGYMP-k7LDz0QjB51YJ23_cjgIGhpxDnRovw7WBL3pAXqSKOJfaFPIC_v7eNkFwWcwKH7qfHLzd6rh8PEXEz2Ubv48F8xJCjVUZDrcJonA/s1600/IMG_0213.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
On a personal level, what I want the most for 2018 are better days ahead. Last year was mentally and physically challenging with seemingly more bad days than good. Towards the end, my health took a huge hit from allergies and stress. Somehow Christmas and New Year's break helped to redeem the remainder of 2017.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
On a different note, 2018 looks like it's going to be another year of travel. With my birthday next month, I'm anxious to get out of town and spend some quality time with my friends. Later on this year, I'll be crossing the pond once again to visit Paris and Italy. Just a few more months to go. It'll be my first visit, so I'm really excited! More details to come soon.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
What are some of your resolutions for this year? I'd love to hear them. Feel free to leave a comment or connect with me via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram </a>or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. Before I go, here's my favorite cover of "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NK9zdPj-os">La Vie en Rose</a>" by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NK9zdPj-os">Foxtails Bridgade</a>. Enjoy!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-NK9zdPj-os/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-NK9zdPj-os?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">via <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NK9zdPj-os">YouTube</a></span></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Until next time,</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Melissa</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-57062692840005080222017-12-20T20:06:00.001-08:002017-12-20T20:12:18.274-08:00See Ya 2017<div>
Happy holidays, everyone!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that you all will be surrounded by good eats, blissful festivities, and close family and friends. I'm looking forward for some much needed time with family and friends this weekend. Christmas is my favorite holiday because it's the happiest time of the year. I love surprising my family and friends with gifts from the heart. I take a lot of time in selecting and handcrafting gifts geared towards each person's personality and likes. In addition to gift giving, I picked a charity to help out this holiday season, and I am looking forward to making this a Christmas tradition for subsequent years to come.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tonight, I decided to take a break from all of the Christmas parties for some much needed self-care. This month has been tough to say the least, both mentally and physically. My health took an unexpected turn this month with issues related to allergies and stress. I'm doing a little bit better now, but the symptoms seem to creep back on me every couple of days. Hopefully, this weekend will bring about some much needed rest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/12/20/See-Ya-2017"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQwvabKZ9yMAZMoussoqBfKAPTvGLcmfgCAhb5pq9UFkPALumLC_yAFaRtSc88qWZsvxODgSn_e7EgWiQNIipRiWBnOVQfT-ASvZQY-xM7ce1rbnQ91ZqyTpCIiFoYTo4dUY6n1RFCrFw/s1600/43C2E31B-3AE9-45D7-B929-D84B3892683E.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
I'm looking forward to 2018 for some much needed change. 2017 has been a year of adventures, personal growth, and valuable life lessons. I can't wait to continue my educational and career development, travel, and volunteer work. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wish you all a very exciting and safe new year! Thank you for following me on my journey, and continuing to support my blog and photography. I've read every single comment and direct message, and I'm very thankful to all of you for encouraging me to continue to pursue my hobbies and passions. Also, thank you to everyone who commented and messaged me about travel recommendations to France and Italy. I'm super excited for 2018! xo</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next year,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-5747953510320730432017-11-24T22:47:00.000-08:002017-11-24T22:53:37.489-08:00Thanks!Happy belated Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
I hope you all had a lovely holiday with your loved ones. I just wanted to say thank you to each and every one of you for being part of my blogging journey these past few years. I really appreciate all of the feedback and comments.<br />
<br />
Reflecting back, this year has been one of the most challenging years that I have faced. Amid the ups and downs of everyday life, I am very thankful for the continued love and support from family and close friends who have always been there for me through the toughest of times.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/24/Thanks"><img border="0" data-original-height="1286" data-original-width="1600" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrBXsoEEkdKnoe-fZedL_RbsooAGzLYU_pzZ0ieFXseKwdBH_ywGLBb5S1dZ6fdp5uTnA2jp9IqnFxfEbGsC60h2CKQQmdIQTl8_Q6o4FdDAUDFer_nYYUz9Unjo5Y8q9_px-9dlGsFw/s1600/IMG_7376.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2017 has been a year of adventure, soul searching, and figuring things out. I've learned a lot about building inner strength, initiating change, and letting things go. Growing up has never been so hard. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/24/Thanks"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1458" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8KKyzihJlfVxrWj2S_fAIW87RF9aYrc0mwl3eSb6CL047h_mhbKdO62NAqo2_ecB8v_akS0iqrmUMvROt2mPTNQwbHMtkCCsbnB82QkskzrbjHfCh4m7txIR99gQe8Q5uTyIZk2POog/s1600/5F092BE9-EFC4-42CE-BA8A-6D7E6F0BAD49.JPG" width="583" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Having learned so many lessons this year, things are starting to look up. I've never felt more sure about who I want to be, what I want to do, and where I want to end up in the next couple of years. Organization, a positive mindset, and a plan of action definitely help!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's to finishing the year strong, and to many more memories to come.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-43724328799237464182017-11-14T21:52:00.001-08:002017-11-18T10:08:47.923-08:00Palm SpringsCan you believe it? We're already halfway through November. I've been so busy that it took me some time to wrap my head around the fact that Thanksgiving is next week.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This past holiday weekend, I took some time to get some much needed R&R and meaningful time with my family. With everyone being spread out, it's hard to get everyone together all of the time. This past weekend, we all headed up to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree to celebrate my dad's belated 60th birthday. It was great to see everyone and to relax under the beautiful California sun.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>DAY 1:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We headed off to <a href="https://www.cabazondinosaurs.com/">Cabazon Dinosaurs</a> where we had a 'dino'mite time searching for fossils, searching for dinosaurs, and climbing the inside of a T-Rex. After a long drive, we grabbed dinner at <a href="https://reservoirpalmsprings.com/">Resevoir</a> and then settled in for the night.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSeaq415yY05o-sLB1RATEcVY53ma3PRhUk4bqPzJSo1e32srcHqIRmY_w_TVeBNbL0rhycO1BFhZFSXzepBiTfOFEYztLsI7QXwcDRFLGr0oCLmSqlQvu1kOt8pfl5huWdtUgVcK2SRg/s1600/4275C6DE-B077-4C45-B78A-38C8826A2C31+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>DAY 2:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My family has a bunch of early risers, so we got our day started with some breakfast from Elmer's. Amazing breakfast, great coffee, and giant German pancakes. We loved this place so much, we eventually came back for round 2 on Monday.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After breakfast, we headed to the Crochet Museum, where we found a lot of interesting art installations. I was a little bit confused when we got there, but nonetheless, I settled right in and found myself amidst a creative wonderland.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rcHMCclGhzN6s5deB4fhyphenhyphenUH3IwxevC7ZCkCLL2KzQDbGVe9F8lam_yeGGvSCteYcGyEpRfsLWGKRlaR-a5NqBQq-WgxjgJWBVkHr4u7p48jeN313otcVLiqkcMM6-WJIVwTvqhrlLwk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.17.23+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RtKKYSsZoiTC9kwbsd_B7ZSk7B-0SwcKqGmnKqhQnD-8RXlcw-NzbJIOoZlXXWJ15ddeOL45fEcfJEAOfO9f1d_YFECQB3m8_QI8zZqH2j0e79RcB8uQ0NaY4WBo7IQxhsjOW75MT_A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.14.14+PM.png" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RtKKYSsZoiTC9kwbsd_B7ZSk7B-0SwcKqGmnKqhQnD-8RXlcw-NzbJIOoZlXXWJ15ddeOL45fEcfJEAOfO9f1d_YFECQB3m8_QI8zZqH2j0e79RcB8uQ0NaY4WBo7IQxhsjOW75MT_A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.14.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaTHhAYibmNhb7DsEhFOb_6InS74BcVSjCnOxT3hQkB01Unuy1vueZweXVkrzMrRYlKfPUZdIyiaHgXzOgxpHkVplMSIafw9560qfRDf6rSK50HQU3_kSCFZXDtcpLibk5JSoUL_xcik/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.49.00+PM.png" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RtKKYSsZoiTC9kwbsd_B7ZSk7B-0SwcKqGmnKqhQnD-8RXlcw-NzbJIOoZlXXWJ15ddeOL45fEcfJEAOfO9f1d_YFECQB3m8_QI8zZqH2j0e79RcB8uQ0NaY4WBo7IQxhsjOW75MT_A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.14.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivYqmpL7baFG-L-zuamj5ia4lPlvIsIZo7PTCEHm1QwV5GccaOFoDq7vYo7HPAlTGFX1CV3i_0rDZvgd1mCIAdEnv_7KC1EC6Aines3iU_IlsRdp4mlKysv_54hWqFQ1bSZPt61TnkarA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.10.36+PM.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While everyone seemed to enjoy the pitstop, we were all very excited to head to Joshua Tree National Park. Due to the holiday weekend, admission was free. We had an amazing time climbing boulders, checking out desert plants, and watching people rock climb and boulder. Everybody was in great sprits, and we all had fun in good ole Mother Nature. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgvyitEDdLG7EezrodtZtK2gcAcERPzgUR8x6f8UEAp4LmaC7SORsOtO-Zg6dZwDlo_vZaZBe9TWdNA-MHHdAG05_Nb9p8sybCX3D9tHz9mWSwg9uMhg61xX7nN0CcPX1xAUUbAQPim8/s1600/IMG_6901.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorKIT0g4MVw48XrvK4G0lKa_jcrfQl1g6O0SU1nDhrLT-9eFxwAc73_Az5I-hg9EE6rXZtGnkWCQF7IxmszBAQasz0F_nG4-NRmASjTbKDMlYREIjSLKhXmTbPprj7WVVW5CYA5CDx5g/s1600/IMG_6446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Following a long day out in the desert, we headed to <a href="http://www.visitcalifornia.com/attraction/pioneertown">PioneerTown</a> and then <a href="https://www.pappyandharriets.com/">Pappy + Harriet's</a> for lunch. PioneerTown had a very rustic feel to it. We saw a woman spinning yarn out of wool, and cowboys walking out and about. While we enjoyed the town, we enjoyed the food at Pappy + Harriet's even more. It was here that we had some of the best chili that we've ever had. We loved it so much, we ordered chili for takeout. We'll definitely be back!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1078" data-original-width="1442" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWG36R9gTaz9Ya4qWxdEp4s5Dy_FpmZcy5gjRG5vszrnlN5jY5SOXanZSTbyGvs7YtUGcIFmMcZdTd0AcMGVr8zbj18N0qBHUOXIeddf6BIyA8Qkojo_vU1Gz4sVJqe9HajRE1GQfDC8o/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.15.41+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course every long day calls for a trip back to the house for some relaxation and pool time. It was a great day indeed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="1517" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K3TFP449gMUAos649eIPtkz3z2nNSokjiOgNzFfLG4lsIBb8SXAPv-nOi_mnPu9DPhcKV1BBYavjnY4ZgFvA4a_Ex_Gfb6gI1tssLnIK7fwPrri32rxi47KdoXWTjGLju2DEUHFy3dU/s1600/FullSizeRender+146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs63rsnip5zuw2R68BGz0UconDakm4m39Gt-AAKU3kCr11cuzDRHPG98fpFUupzu_u934QNB6NPbGI5UDOyG5kZ1iGHguEmOsDZKpX16dAqdy3yinVLkhu3qSGcfeq9dj0UMIbToDBuHk/s1600/4D1E09AF-D10B-4D61-BA1D-E41200828221.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>DAY 3:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We began day three bright and early at <a href="http://www.farmpalmsprings.com/">FARM</a>, a French inspired breakfast hot spot in Palm Springs. I absolutely loved their French press coffee and breakfast. My sister and I split some French Toast and a Croissant Breakfast Sandwich, while the rest of the family dined on specialties like the Croque Madame, and the Saumon Epinards. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After breakfast, we headed to the <a href="http://www.livingdesert.org/">Living Desert</a> zoo and gardens. There, we rode camels, fed giraffes, and petted baby goats. The kids were ecstatic to see all of the animals, especially the camels. We also were able to witness the cheetah run, which was a unique experience. Overall, it was a relaxing afternoon filled with exploration and wildlife education.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1130" data-original-width="998" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLFTwM0RfAB6pd-iTTHOLRYF9g0X6C43yw3-k7x-Cu4oKreE3Hrjv5I4agg059zAMe5TuSlmPpHLCVvlpsOKmnXmgwCp46PtMjSImrVYhCBjZi2k1yKQXdxWVO4iu1YFl3REq9C2hWAk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-18+at+10.04.25+AM.png" width="564" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, no afternoon would be complete without another retreat to the pool. By the time family game night rolled around, I was ready to retire for the day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQAhrr9rSUzRC6tBmnB8VxyvJ3bfRzMZhwWHq1q5-YyO45lNMaN0S12I98uyPjtDr2_ujwDfFKiQGctCOK5URteMkXiJdSaRSFM_zYNncEtHPOup0hKYyq28MbbZmn6rFl31EdwsKzWo/s1600/2C7C64B4-A676-490E-A57F-4F9CA70DE5A3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
DAY 4:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On our final day in Palm Springs, we had breakfast at Elmer's for our last hurrah. Everyone was still in very good spirits, and we were all quite happy to have been able to spend this much time together as a family. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Following breakfast, we headed to the local botanical gardens for a morning stroll before heading back home. The cactarium was my favorite part of the botanical gardens, offering an array of both beautiful and obscure looking cacti in a greenhouse. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFgsWJpprPgoEzqZwSFqtvpzP5LYLpp9AImGGf8uFpI_D2adOhTpbb4K1oPlmEgPevn5-BJy0LBpziDz3gCr8abphKqD4b5DDeZ_B8Tdtdvz2IgGCUNgm1qbp04Bh0bWTPU5QNjluvHk/s1600/IMG_6615.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="1436" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9dqu__C9gDlT927q_PMHC8Exc6gMjZVcNICijcAWmgwMOvcMSUWsEsuQY6LwgFUrBfnh6mW3Cl2Ygvor5KHm4pBs_q_13LRl8wJJjKFgpfBgJLvyP66-m9ezyp7iR0-5efVi2CD1q5w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-11-14+at+9.42.46+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/11/14/Palm-Springs"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1070" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TFPwDqerb5QBstaApj04sRSw01g8KdMU0ELGsoOS4GK4IPCq0vXKXMfiWIGAvfqciLQOD6PFKdTGZC_XCGzs7ZmMPphc1KCtBBhU4JSmfWpxaH_lYs2zmi3XjPzO7FH5YAjbBB_QMYA/s1600/B9CA1D57-E1B6-48FE-91D9-C2496536A411.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Overall, I really enjoyed spending this past weekend with my family. Being away from my regular routine and spending time in the company of loved ones has helped me to reset and refocus on my life. I'm excited to see more of my family in the upcoming weeks with the holidays coming up. Christmas is my favorite holiday, so I'm looking forward to our annual family traditions and festivities. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that everybody will have an amazing Thanksgiving weekend next week, and a lovely holiday season!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-19463082353587065082017-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:002017-10-20T06:00:06.731-07:00Back to BlackAutumn by far is my favorite time of the year. There's something about cold weather, spooky stories, and the morning gloom that really draws me in. Today's look is inspired by my love of <i><a href="http://www.hamiltonbroadway.com/">Hamilton: An American Musical</a></i>, film inspired photography, dark hues, comfy style, and of course, cute shoes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlzrV55Kk3E_21OE1hud4qlZ40O3IVpdhymCp_2GDxKj9MqP4Zxpx4Ks_IwkOAWuq8XFyk46laOVqM6GSa7pEq1Std3o3lc4ewRD2vTLYOYcvjMENhGrxn7iMOngiovZ5UcLOQncREG0/s1600/IMG_3513+2.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Seeing as we are drawing closer to Halloween, I thought that I would share an easy look that you can wear for the occasion or perhaps for a dressy night out on the town. I love this outfit because it has chic yet androgynous feel to it. Plus, who doesn't love a good black ensemble?<br />
<br />
<b>The Shoes:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Can we take a second to admire these adorable black <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1qu5" href="http://www.restrictedshoes.com/teddy-black/">Teddy</a></span> patent leather oxfords from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1p5y" href="http://restrictedshoes.com/">Restricted Shoes?</a></span> The design is simple yet sleek. I really appreciate the fact that they took such a masculine style shoe and re-engineered the style to make it the more wearable for women.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuEzCVw3KRrbDECXZ2qVZq2JJNXRzTa-VWfPhZR95fFv1SMClpQ4vVbTr2r6Yr2ASaWCH-1M9EvP9jp932EIm_sR8wllJWurbN9PM5y9mJteTAHw7NONyHp7ZQ8nWuZKoOLbdhpfCT_8/s1600/IMG_3530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuEzCVw3KRrbDECXZ2qVZq2JJNXRzTa-VWfPhZR95fFv1SMClpQ4vVbTr2r6Yr2ASaWCH-1M9EvP9jp932EIm_sR8wllJWurbN9PM5y9mJteTAHw7NONyHp7ZQ8nWuZKoOLbdhpfCT_8/s1600/IMG_3530.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Having previously owned several pairs of <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1yaj" href="http://restrictedshoes.com/">Restricted Shoes</a></span> over the last couple of years, I can attest to the fact that these new shoes had zero break in time. From the time I took them out of the box, to the time I took them off at the end of the day, I had no issues with blisters or chafing. I usually have sensitive feet when it comes to breaking in new shoes, but I didn't experience any complications with these <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1xgd" href="http://www.restrictedshoes.com/teddy-black/">Teddy</a></span> patent oxfords whatsoever. The shoes are always comfortable and true to size, which I really appreciate. My favorite part about the shoes is that I can dress it up or down. Seeing as I have been attending a lot more business related meetings and events, these shoes go great with dresses, skirts, and slacks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF00PLQi4ymZyaMghvLQLsuwdtm7S4XBePWcJi1jxfrpQsM5IcIJaheHWYnIa9MW_FKnc1njBKJtwvdu0JZb9vRvXX27ka-wMrYtPAOpxZZj-jTydH5ynGbN2Z4I_RUTBrhmn44jGv_E/s1600/IMG_3529+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1600" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigF00PLQi4ymZyaMghvLQLsuwdtm7S4XBePWcJi1jxfrpQsM5IcIJaheHWYnIa9MW_FKnc1njBKJtwvdu0JZb9vRvXX27ka-wMrYtPAOpxZZj-jTydH5ynGbN2Z4I_RUTBrhmn44jGv_E/s1600/IMG_3529+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>The Outfit:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I paired together my favorite white ruffle blouse from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMediaelt" href="https://sisterjane.com/">Sister Jane</a></span> with my Bandcamp Cropped Jacket from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia5qz" href="http://www.nastygal.com/">Nasty Gal</a></span> for some contrast and texture. For bottoms, I wore my favorite black slacks to tie together my military suit look. If you'd like to recreate the military jacket look, I recommend getting a thrifted blazer, some simple upholstery rope, buttons, and a glue gun from a craft store.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpqn170PVBZTcucZd270EGK6Nf9mQE7oYeZ-xwl9r4Mavh8lDP6d_9OADe8lsUFBZPiYzR2xkOFp2DuDctZfY3sIXO9eCHk9Rw-_WQOodVpxo-GXWZpSXEBnTxJg1k-ElDBVVPbxZE5U/s1600/IMG_3508+2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="932" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpqn170PVBZTcucZd270EGK6Nf9mQE7oYeZ-xwl9r4Mavh8lDP6d_9OADe8lsUFBZPiYzR2xkOFp2DuDctZfY3sIXO9eCHk9Rw-_WQOodVpxo-GXWZpSXEBnTxJg1k-ElDBVVPbxZE5U/s1600/IMG_3508+2-2.jpg" width="514" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>The Verdict:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I love the comfort and versatility of this look. For the most part, it combines clothing items that many of us already have: a white top, black pants/slacks, and a black jacket. I think the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1xhu" href="http://www.restrictedshoes.com/teddy-black/">Teddy</a></span> oxfords really take this look to the next level.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed this look, and will give it a try. Let me know if you decide try this out for Halloween! I'd love to see your pictures! If you'd like to connect with me, you can find me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. Special thanks to <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a dataquery="#txtMedia1bl3" href="http://restrictedshoes.com/">Restricted Shoes</a></span> for teaming up with me for this look.<br />
<a dataquery="#txtMedia1bl3" href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><br /></a>
Until next time,<br />
<a dataquery="#txtMedia1bl3" href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><br /></a>
Melissa<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-17316006805686942992017-09-19T14:12:00.000-07:002017-10-19T20:18:46.984-07:00Portland<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Welcome to Portland.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApFdmEOSdPiNDfuOmMsza4usqAx-IuRxQ6RiOAzWLTwnbQoW-VMktoJGEGgkuiexzVJ4c3k0TJZC2DnzhSnG009q6PEa58sLSSwdIC36pRlldNv7uLr4cxEcw_nX5Hm7kMqCVD88-wPo/s1600/IMG_1414.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fall is my favorite time of the year to travel. There are no crowds, the weather's great, and it's easier to make accommodations. While I usually tend to go to the East Coast to watch the leaves change colors, I thought I'd switch it up this year and stay on the West Coast.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This year, my best friend, Melissa, and I decided to head up to Portland, Oregon for our vacation. Unlike other trips that we have taken in the past, we decided to leave our trip itinerary open this time. It was nice being able to relax and not have to rush from location to location. Overall, Portland was beautiful and calm, despite the slight haze looming over the city on the first day due to the forest fires from the previous weeks.</span></div>
<div class="font8" data-reactid=".0.$SITE_ROOT.$desktop_siteRoot.$PAGES_CONTAINER.$centeredContent.$inlineContent.$SITE_PAGES.$c21kp_DESKTOP.$inlineContent.$icolpnyh_1.$inlineContent.0.$child.$0.$inlineContent.$1.$5.$0.$richTextContainer.6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; outline: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>DAY 1:</b></span></span></div>
<div class="font8" data-reactid=".0.$SITE_ROOT.$desktop_siteRoot.$PAGES_CONTAINER.$centeredContent.$inlineContent.$SITE_PAGES.$c21kp_DESKTOP.$inlineContent.$icolpnyh_1.$inlineContent.0.$child.$0.$inlineContent.$1.$5.$0.$richTextContainer.7" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; outline: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="font8" data-reactid=".0.$SITE_ROOT.$desktop_siteRoot.$PAGES_CONTAINER.$centeredContent.$inlineContent.$SITE_PAGES.$c21kp_DESKTOP.$inlineContent.$icolpnyh_1.$inlineContent.0.$child.$0.$inlineContent.$1.$5.$0.$richTextContainer.8" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; outline: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Melissa and I had an early start on Saturday, both leaving on the first flights to Portland from our respective cities. The first order of business when we arrived: Brunch! We decided to settle into the city with a nice brunch from <a href="http://www.tastynalder.com/">Tasty n Alder</a>, which was a real treat to fill our empty stomachs. Afterward, we grabbed some coffee from <a href="https://www.casestudycoffee.com/">Case Study Coffee Roasters</a> to get our caffeine fix before exploring the city.</span></div>
<div class="font8" data-reactid=".0.$SITE_ROOT.$desktop_siteRoot.$PAGES_CONTAINER.$centeredContent.$inlineContent.$SITE_PAGES.$c21kp_DESKTOP.$inlineContent.$icolpnyh_1.$inlineContent.0.$child.$0.$inlineContent.$1.$5.$0.$richTextContainer.9" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; outline: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="font8" data-reactid=".0.$SITE_ROOT.$desktop_siteRoot.$PAGES_CONTAINER.$centeredContent.$inlineContent.$SITE_PAGES.$c21kp_DESKTOP.$inlineContent.$icolpnyh_1.$inlineContent.0.$child.$0.$inlineContent.$1.$5.$0.$richTextContainer.a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-stretch: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; outline: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Downtown Portland had a small town feel with many mom n' pop shops and restaurants throughout the city. Aside from Starbucks, there were not many franchise businesses in the area. Much of the city reminded me of Downtown L.A., which I loved. The people were kind and polite, and the drivers were quite generous in their yielding abilities unlike the drivers in Southern California.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDtpx59Kf6ypLRRai9pb8CLTiQhMT1icnMqapWcl-qWL_mko3WQ5c9L5qz4b-4eA9gbDsTZf2KizRpEvzIumV9BFcuQdQrZyGbvqniJUQF-bhvcJTzItDQWEO87AcGFPahG7sYarihIw/s1600/IMG_1492.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIn0mlcW7qhR0_GIMxE5RJ10C2Od9AD6FtdzwUp_BS7duPM_KTbouwDglyKD3T9M67sQewh48N9Bp9NlwB7ZeMOO3sSJcPNKHacznr50Jcjovx2qwSI43h2AYvmuTSvd8U3ruKhdomOE/s1600/FullSizeRender+136.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="382">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Smart Hyperlink"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073786111 1 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">While strolling through the city, we came across <a href="http://www.powells.com/">Powell's City of Books</a>, a definite must see for visitors coming to Portland. My favorite part of the bookstore was reading all of the staff pick summaries for books that they recommended. Of course, Melissa and I both left with some good reads to take home.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1407" data-original-width="878" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjuO34-_UWa2JE2F8qhK63UKj5O5plF2HF48imEyUHszJ30VWyyNL9OGgWx7ZWuhj4NFc_-rJ4zk5R8v0jeils6-T-evT_UtycqtFVvoj-kuoV3jClqZD_CLQZWkqbVMjoYghKm1YQ5s/s1600/FullSizeRender+140.jpg" width="398" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next, we decided to go on an afternoon hike at <a href="http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Marquam_Nature_Park_Loop_Hike">Marquam Nature Park</a>. It was even more beautiful than I had imagined. Ironically, Melissa and I made it to the hiking trail just in time for magic hour, where we got some amazing light in the forest. The trails were relatively easy to follow, and we had no trouble getting in and out of the park. If I ever return to Portland one day, I will definitely return to Marquam Nature Park. It was so peaceful and serene. I would highly recommend this place to anybody who loves nature and hiking.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1070" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxzd5kCqx5b79XUBIySWXXFNNZhuXFin9D4QAVvIAlm79nTYZJCorZTlpBZ8yHKKbUVAhryNIDkrlU-TTD6KOUc-F40hrJo0cD5I5Evzo0YGKgjipb7tTlfsgKcQIqCk3kFNAS56J3aw/s640/IMG_1762.JPG" width="427" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"></a><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="750" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdE1_1g-rBkjnfw3U-XLAJc2wyFHFmz_lBMO0wQuHU5kVvWISy7gY-57FbPPGTahu5NHskVpoRi0JOx2gutL68M5mTNQy41Cmfq9ya-ZRtjrcVWGsEcKrsXz3c8X5h8kAsDsFcEHp6HwQ/s1600/FullSizeRender+138.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2us3C_aZjUqPdZ-ytEstjcfTjOOsRcRXM8_5eWDNPme3ChuLij6VBLvu5qznVzi20BsrTn2WvMUo8xBU8ZqJs01MDmETHsAvsCPnafcENveWTz-maW_z_tdMVbSId9ZxtvBH3Ud6zfTs/s1600/IMG_1496.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After a long day out and about, we checked into our Airbnb cottage. It was the most adorable place we've ever seen. Small, spacious, clean, quiet, and minimalistic. Just what we needed on vacation. There was lots of natural light, and plenty of utilities at our disposal.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="898" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpDxUGAgKdSPEhkv25GwbgbuSy9TxQ86p9GCK0oFvHhhXpfvHlL-1nxYTze6IGRLeMPZ9BLpWPm5bTqSMGAeGsiRbx-M1cx3qea6u8L6Dc0Arlx7ds5dx9wj_9fY26NS3nyMMiWvE2mI/s1600/FullSizeRender+142.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="382">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Smart Hyperlink"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073786111 1 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
p.font8, li.font8, div.font8
{mso-style-name:font_8;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="font8" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next, we headed out to <a href="https://mwlpdx.com/">Multnomah Whiskey Library</a> in Downtown Portland for a drink. A co-worker of mine highly recommended this place, so it was worth checking out. When we arrived, we were whisked away upstairs to a private room that resembled a den. The Multnomah Whiskey LIbrary was cozy and spacious, with knowledgable bartenders, and whiskey fanatics scattered throughout the room. We learned a lot about whiskey that evening, and had the pleasure of sipping on some local favorites. The Multnomah Whiskey Library was definitiely worth the hype, and I will definitely be back!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><span id="goog_94921359"></span><span id="goog_94921360"></span><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3Yox2tkHgu6LuiGyc8bncC5WTS5g_jq4XyAI4YbsrkKH6GzlAsSQQtlgYtUSIeI1HbpHc3L1lCiAGKPFwjWXlVQFK5-AYwsqStk_BKlre_BrF-RH5Xo-Vo4Ne5c2GYnDveKQjUCURF0/s1600/IMG_1465.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCSHg6xoEm_THhhg6nIJ8j0P8Zm03W6CaUXrZ04dbKbrwE24h2F3LlrCzM3JC6pnmxc2SlkU4m3pypJtKO3DNI_2ljHyH1hZkm4g46w3JdE0EU14jWID6sXoONCKxMs_5Z5qoN0Y8k_M/s1600/IMG_1463.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQUrZBVORS2FVdiOifHLCZS4SMjB2aBn76FKYZABGPR3ci43n8qgOrnNi3QlQmpKWaP7od3gA93Zf28jV41Fo8freqjE-jhZOSmMx9VOomU7nJwO3mQ8WLVAhlQeg4qpEyyhHYRINHzM/s1600/FullSizeRender+139.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpMCu5Woe3-KqrrIIAqjkqCu2NuGSI4vqtUCg3B2PzaufGdrHwO3P-wVfNYtxNs9clNJTdkc8Y0T1yVCf0QNttgr4aZxz5-DGY59zkwVgsJOn5QelXN8fCqNlQVKawKT6lZlPqU6NDdU/s1600/IMG_1468.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="382">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Smart Hyperlink"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073786111 1 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After our whiskey adventure, we decided to go out for some beers at the ever so popular, <a href="https://www.deschutesbrewery.com/">Deschutes Brewery</a>. Overall, it was a great experience. The brewery was spacious and cabin-like. Melissa and I both enjoyed dinner and some craft beer tastings before heading out to check out some other Portland sights and sounds.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTstPOD2YgrjHORNpuhGMoTFQc4Do8bI4mqT7t6Razjz1_gKZcTeja-n08nDr3oYxD8DhBf-uASrBv4MepYOMkVZrsAXY4MmMTSbaEJmz9P6ZpGKWKt8RC31Sx9lhlLn_n82JYqv1mQw/s640/IMG_1763.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="font8" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>DAY 2: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We loved brunch so much in Portland that we decided to do it again. On Sunday morning, we went to <a href="https://www.irvingstreetkitchen.com/">Irving Street Kitchen</a>, a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to get some good eats.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oYSh7OlRQrlWorW7gxBalS-cAGMgT2xZQ1f4OiR2p0al6SS47es3SDI8arPAhuknWU6SNor7QUitsmIkjkQ3HsGiE9z74iNDR4RrhsAj0xUgWughzkossJGsnAd11YC5dKvXiI7Jjko/s1600/IMG_1760.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I ordered the Three Grain Waffle Breakfast board: three grain waffles, scrambled eggs, Irving St. bacon, and maple syrup. The bacon was amazing, and I usually don't eat bacon. It was crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. If you're a bacon fan, this place is for you! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As opposed to a ordering a traditional coffee that morning, I decided to be adventurous and order the Cowboy Coffee: cold brew coffee, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Ramazzotti, and cream. That was the highlight of my morning. If you ever get a chance to come to this place, I highly recommend the Cowboy Coffee! It's worth it!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1202" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHttNgTq8zy3sZTKScoS8e3XhGUwJHlA4T0wnlpm4gkhx_uCPhUk82jfmwypCrqFr6EmeWGGhmSW3B4h1l8tmy0bEd6yOdqUJdHUnMQ8Ewfgv4qv6sAWhGyLwZmdiJiTI94qoP-FIa0Q/s1600/FullSizeRender+141.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="382">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Mention"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Smart Hyperlink"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:1;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073786111 1 0 415 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After brunch, we headed to <a href="https://saltandstraw.com/flavors/">Salt & Straw</a> for some ice cream. We got to sample some of the local flavors such as Oregon Honey Rocky Road, Bone Marrow & Smoked Cherries, and Petunia's Peach Crumble Bars. The Oregon Honey Rocky Road was by far my favorite flavor, made with fresh house-made marshmallows and caramelized walnuts. I wish that I could've taken a pint home with me. I loved it so much!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEfJqAbktoI7TL9qpmSTOqvgp2X9RQsUo4Qu1Z4OYOLPOybjRXBVcsnHvNo9_mhSzpdzKbDDvFZdQHTQJaM6vrr9dbdc9uUZF-vs-GKSrfZtGK57U0dTsxWcGUp3aOcOV2M59r77-ryc/s640/IMG_1752.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1171" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVmArt2_rivLt4zIrf8IXeAxmQC5OVMnrBFfTsrgRWiTfgf9UVAQMOZSmCEoInY4azkSJnx2u2aFpZh-aTsJOttl5dJCC0ef5g4htpTrnckU-P7vUndCFahNxaY1EhQzOi5kOO4YAKh8/s640/IMG_1753.JPG" width="468" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="font8" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since we had been eating for the majority of the morning, Melissa and I decided that it would be best to get some exercise in. After we finished our ice cram at Salt & Straw, we headed to the <a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/finder/index.cfm?action=ViewPark&PropertyID=1113">International Rose Test Garden</a>. The trek to the garden was exhausting. We climbed plenty of stairs and nearly got attacked by some yellow jacket bees along the way. We also experienced some light rain along the way, which continued on and off for the rest of the afternoon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Aside from those minor details, the rose garden was gorgeous. The flowers were vibrant, large, and beautiful. I was surprised that there were so many beautiful flowers still in bloom despite the seasonal transition into fall. If you love unique hybrid flowers, this is definitely the place for you!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LsvXqXWokVfHoL2nf34pHS5pGox9V17TfpZn2kTklSlfqJfm3hSwkilupZ6xIcJs_AZ7-ag6RLX3SkkRsDQPatOIpLwjTV0VLNty88_bk48xTNO_AuXqphwscigSwO7jHP4gDRwNXG8/s640/IMG_1700.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzy30DY8EbPTY2aodfiUu0B7jbeuedzU0V0y-E3uVSUcKjZ5hbHDJ-ORFTi0U6136le4Qo2l8JFTqhYSDfJTJ8ZHER488RyFC9u878M4F9n2CAhBmwlaIAjQcOl6rYpscZBTg86YocdU4/s1600/IMG_1719.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of course every journey has to come to an end. It was really delightful being able to spend some time with my best friend, and being able to unplug from life for a bit. While I did get sick during our trip, I'm glad to be back at home resting and recovering.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/19/Portlandia"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yzKnI-NRKACdOk7f7t_qhiioedzFpWwqRzlV7Bis5out0e_QSXvQku6lNSK_hZzpuwVyM9K91YkyxH-5JEjvpTl8FkCgVw07YDndnNcPDb4eLZu6UZfBtHg3-mzItLqzn4xz380xoM8/s1600/IMG_1758.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="font8" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have any of you been to Portland? If so, what was your favorite part about it? Where should I head off to next? Fell free to connect with me via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/tran_gerine">Twitter</a> via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. I can't wait to hear what you guys have to share! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Until next time,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Melissa</span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-65832361301014588592017-09-06T22:02:00.002-07:002017-09-06T22:15:21.433-07:00Never Stop Dreaming, Darling.<div>
Adulthood has been by no means been easy. There are a lot of growing pains involved, and many sacrifices to make. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The older I become, the more I value self-improvement, patience, organization, and long-term planning. Despite the challenges of everyday life, I feel a sense of peace knowing that I am taking some time each day to work on my short and long-term goals. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/06/Never-Stop-Dreaming-Darling"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIvMhQCqLlFBFzGj0zDNysoN1lhjw7j9KMolekGMGhytcniFh44XU7Ri6FaSJm1369V4v54mdxngyRl8-PzvvrCJGQgZzx0VI0ryoXfgmy5H-EQrf19A4RCtFl8ghPFKUH9_zqrtrxbg/s1600/IMG_8173.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
As a kid, I dreamed big. In second grade, I wrote a short story in class about how I wanted to work at Disneyland one day. I didn't know how I would do it, but I knew that I loved it so much. I held onto that dream for years, not knowing that this childhood passion would change my life. Many years later, I would go on to fulfill that dream and have one of the most incredible experiences of my life. This childhood aspiration taught me that no dream is ever too big, and that no effort is ever wasted. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/09/06/Never-Stop-Dreaming-Darling"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBnwk3EY6SqYYJpPdL8fOY3jt-sG6DwOcmkN1SEDZ-zEIqyGqYnqssn4JHu4QAyAXxHkNgfrn8v6w_OO-BCVKkyXiJ-IYiRidMi2ysuFLaMJjjFIE4Z5PveLHYoByqqyMJ6Ukyg5K2io/s1600/IMG_0431.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Don't. Stop. Dreaming.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just because you fulfill your dream doesn't mean that you should stop dreaming. I think the reason why I still get out of bed at 6am nearly every morning is because there are still other dreams to be fulfilled. They're not going to be by any means easy, but I am constantly reminding myself that some of the biggest rewards happen when I push myself outside of my comfort zone.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
In the last year or so, I've learned that it's okay to feel anxious, nervous, scared, or insecure. It's natural to feel this way. The future can be scary! Life will be tough and throw some unexpected distractions and challenges your way. Don't fret. Be your own cheerleader and tell yourself that you achieve anything if you put your mind to it. Begin by setting up some goals and getting organized to ease anxiety and to avoid procrastination. Surround yourself with people that love you and can can shed some light on things when life get rough. Don't forget to reward yourself every once in a while when you do hit certain milestones in your goal progress. Lastly, don't forget to sleep. Not only is it important to take care of your mind, but also your body. Allow yourself ample time to rest and rejuvenate. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What are some of your dreams? What motivates you get out of bed each morning? I'd love to know your thoughts. You can connect with me through Instagram or Twitter @Tran_gerine. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-31065995612083481192017-08-21T22:39:00.000-07:002017-08-21T22:42:05.851-07:00Short Hair, Don't CareRecently, I found my new hairdresser, Jude, in the most millennial way possible. Instagram. It was truly a serendipitous moment, but a great one at that. I had been mentally battling it out in my mind about whether to grow out my locks or chopping several inches off. After meeting her online by coincidence, it was pretty evident that I was going to go with the latter decision.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/08/21/Short-Hair-Dont-Care"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBapjeCF1mxV1id9xVMBNVE4ESmSYJjWM9qiR9TJcPfRTn72k9ptnfdpU9tW0NPQDA9EBTmktf2bRS59ivdhn9Xu1zFvgAFf9G-Fvdl4eA8FG9T3QCUcU5Nu4gwJzNsoV1y-sWmCA34M/s1600/AL3A1096-4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Alex Bell</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We initially bonded over short hair and philosophical life thoughts, and eventually covered topics like travel, life experiences, work, learning, and family. As someone who is very protective about my hair, Jude had this confidence and ease to her which made it easy to let her cut and dye my hair. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/08/21/Short-Hair-Dont-Care"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1k4kNoVOoGi3mB30U1Wcx5ds9D6iUX6-uI7a6hQuHQSyZzbtT6tjS6ClIWEgEyVTtj63OI6e4P1N1HiifXHZar7Q6PaSfOkPuN_WCHHCLC8PtDoTbisaGS42vjjOj7i8QuqMr949Xmcc/s1600/AL3A1098+%25281%2529-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Alex Bell</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before my haircut, my hair was flat and lifeless, stringing along the remains of what was overgrown highlights. After my visit with Jude, my hair was voluminous, bouncy, and uniform again. She and I worked together to fuse our visions into an asymmetrical, slightly textured bob. For a little fun element, Jude added a little bit of a subtle rosy tone on top of my remaining highlights to give my hair a little peak-a-boo of color when the sun indirectly hits it. My favorite part about the cut and dye is that my hair is conservative enough for business functions, but has a bit of personality and flair to it as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/08/21/Short-Hair-Dont-Care"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBDOITuV7ho600kgIfrj03hnD0cwJXYMY_9SGT11GWWwxTRnhPRAtLLO76ix2ywHDfNeP-hOJZMYwcK-FVY4trAJCXJui3Lk9b-y7A7U9m37B91UeMW1-_aaXshvTU9bid1tB5tav0t8/s1600/Hair+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Alex Bell</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
I love the way that short hair makes me feel. I initially chopped off 9 inches of my hair back in 2014 as a way to defy traditional beauty standards, and I'm glad that I did. In that time, I've learned to also love my freckles, my curves, my scars, and my blemishes. Imperfection is beauty, and beauty is imperfection. I've learned that once you embrace your individuality, radiance and beauty both follow suit. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What are some things about yourself that make you who you are today? Feel free to tweet me or shoot me a message on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. If you're interested in checking out Jude's other styles, you can check her out at <a href="http://www.saltyblondecut.co/">Salty Blonde Cut Co.</a><span id="goog_760001947"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_760001948"></span>, or check out her on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/judeviola/">here</a><span id="goog_760001956"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_760001957"></span>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time, happy styling!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-39750230907230189482017-08-14T22:36:00.000-07:002017-08-16T08:02:34.062-07:00Stream of Consciousness<div>
Life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You'll figure it out," they say. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What does that even mean?" I asked myself. How come figuring out life comes easier for some, and harder for others? Is it luck? Is it fate? Is it privilege? Is it hard work? Is it a combination of all of the above? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The older I become, the more these thoughts resonate in my mind. Needless to say, I think about life lot. Memories of the past creeps in from time to time, bringing in both happy and painful memories. The present is a work in progress, and is filled with lots of trial and error. Finally, the future is a hopeful reminder that there will be better days to come. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently, I experienced an "ah-ha" moment in my life, and I'll never forget it. It was so subtle, yet so profound. It was on the first Saturday of this month, and I remember feeling extremely tired driving home from a work event. I realized a few things during this half hour long drive home at night. We live in a generation where we live fast, speeding through life trying to experience everything quickly and valuing nothing. We see things as expendable...temporary. We miss a lot of really great opportunities, because we're too busy running off to chase the next thing. We have advanced technology at our fingertips which allows us the ability to communicate and to build further connections, yet we are the generation that struggles the most with communication and building meaningful relationships. We say we want certain things in life, but lack the motivation and commitment to stick to plan.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/08/14/Stream-of-Consciousness"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1329" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgXUMIg4jx3-we6G63_ooFzngT7oGrEvB6MO023GIUdg6x94qDjO3LHx6Hk4yGZgc2dbEcq8HNaeP2Yz_RN8L-VDJxfmMnWmEBaEBW512fGJqG_IeEid6oaqxxM6ZIzUn81ujWdiy6nA/s1600/IMG_8723.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I don't know about you, but I don't want to live life fast. I want to live life fully with meaning and purpose. I want to value every moment as if it would be the last. Some of my fondest memories are those that don't exist in photographs, but rather, as supercuts in my mind that play over and over from time to time. Everyday, I'm working on being more transparent with expressing my thoughts and emotions, and I'm loving it. Finally, I've learned to stick to a plan. Knowing all too well my long-term goals, I know that it will take a lot of patience, hard work, and commitment. Although, I haven't quite figured out everything in my life yet, I'm okay with that. Everything will work out in due time. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am ready. Are you?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What are some of your thoughts about today's world? How do you deal with some of these issues plaguing our current society? Let me know some of your thoughts. You can connect with me on Instagram and Twitter via @Tran_gerine. Talk to you all again soon!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
-Melissa</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-54962346606089110312017-07-18T23:32:00.003-07:002017-07-18T23:53:43.152-07:00Made With Love From Barcelona<div>
We all have regrets. My one regret is not going to visit Barcelona when I visited Spain this past year. While I had seriously considered it at one point, my week long adventure was sadly not long enough to accommodate this beautiful, art forward city. Perhaps I'll try again in 2021?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Speaking of Barcelona, I came across this locally made, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://helloholiday.com/collections/new-arrivals/products/vito-dress">Vito Dress</a><span id="goog_331746631"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_331746632"></span></span>, by designer,<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"> <a href="http://heinui.tictail.com/">Claire Pignot</a> (Heihui)</span>, on <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://helloholiday.com/collections/new-arrivals/products/vito-dress">Hello Holiday</a></span>. It was definitely love at first sight. The dress is made from 100% cotton, off-white double gauze fabric from Japan, and has medium sized wooden buttons throughout the design. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/07/18/Made-With-Love-From-Barcelona"><img border="0" data-original-height="1259" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy22PAC8xt5sChfJmN5E_zU0arrWslmK6Dff-Pe_cUgly6-g1mYD0UFvmv6RQRMXQKuYER-04MNVf-RzxGHMzOAxOyy6od2ySTFxUzKKsJjz0ah37FgtkdG9bNURGiNAuWDkaJ6sc_3aY/s1600/IMG_7104.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My favorite features of the dress are the bishop sleeves and the pockets. The loose sleeves and deep pockets give the dress both comfort and functionality. The only downside of the dress is that it is semi see-through, which means that you'll definitely want to wear some flesh toned undergarments and a slip underneath. I also recommend steaming the dress before you wear it, since I had some wrinkles at the bottom of my dress. For daily wear and travel, you could probably get away with the wrinkles since the texture of the dress sort of has a naturally slight wrinkled texture to it.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/07/18/Made-With-Love-From-Barcelona"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEO5bS6N0RcsZlzC4ID2U5BJR_Tj0FmyCMyjRfYgtipyAVGNG5wJCp4rB0HUmKCsVCZ-wRiSAI0l4Z49vdEvCsbYSmrUnMQmL39SAWr0wOyXgIiVoBkZVO1MO70OtCtb0AoXzd5-Zc0DA/s1600/IMG_7089.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
Since I've been on a huge minimalist kick lately, I really love this dress. It's a great piece for an early Sunday brunch or a stroll through the farmer's market.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/07/18/Made-With-Love-From-Barcelona"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDm7V6Mal-JJGDE2m_Jk77pm7knAfsmCjAtUUdxlvuYt7iiIWpSnJmOBgWJtkhcM7BY22ub0Zw63lplby2lZNNkZ8mGzinDI27zG6Xh34js61epBHciLJXrg8sPW5ZdDmk3SmMXi3oiE/s1600/IMG_7102.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
If I could wear all of the clothes in Claire's collection, I absolutely would. I'm really digging the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://heinui.tictail.com/product/vela-jumpsuit-in-bleached-indigo">V</a><a href="http://heinui.tictail.com/product/vela-jumpsuit-in-bleached-indigo">ela Jumpsuit</a></span>, the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://heinui.tictail.com/product/edith-in-aquablue-girls-fish-print">Edith Dress</a></span>, and the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://heinui.tictail.com/product/lucio-dress-indigo-sashiko-embroidered-cotton">Lucio Dress</a></span> right now. What's your favorite design from <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Heinui</span> or <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Hello Holiday</span>? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you have any questions about this dress, please feel free to leave a comment below. If you would like to connect via Instagram or Twitter, you can find me <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tran_gerine/">@Tran_gerine</a>. Talk to you all soon. Happy styling!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7597436857011413370.post-69910526074607119922017-07-09T09:25:00.003-07:002017-07-10T18:41:26.642-07:00Wonder Woman<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Superheroes come in all different shapes, colors, and backgrounds. As the movie industry slowly starts to recognize the importance of strong female leads, I hope that it will also recognize the need to cast more diverse leading actors/actresses in the future as well. Hollywood, <span style="font-style: italic;">Wonder Woman</span> was a phenomenal film. Let's continue to make even more amazing movies like this. Yes? </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
P.S. Gal Gadot, you are my hero. ♥️</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Today's look is inspired by Gal Gadot in the new <span style="font-style: italic;">Wonder Woman</span> film. It was about 90 degrees today, so a strapless top was definitely in order. </div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
Want to learn how to get the look? Read more below!</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.trangerine.com/single-post/2017/07/09/Wonder-Woman"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKYsqnekIq73zdPGbQJxiNa4EORu6YTxxx_wm6IYiiM4TkPVHDJ8jzhrfss5-YtNKLrLQrB2oBCYupm8YHVPBMwVfuXeY5q_EQDiV1X4lJhP0iFlG60bPvPspykJTccb1D3Dp8PQJoy0/s1600/BeFunky+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 17px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cb2026;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wonder Woman Makeup Tutorial:</span></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</span> Wash your face. I hope this is explanatory, but you don't want to contaminate your makeup brushes with more acne causing bacteria than you have to!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </span>Moisturize! I love my <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.fresh.com/US/best-sellers/lotus-youth-preserve-face-cream/H00002669.html#q=lotus+face+cream&start=1&cgid=null">Fresh Youth Preserve Lotus Face Cream</a><span id="goog_577915860"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_577915861"></span></span>. It's one of my favorite daily and travel moisturizers, mainly because it keeps my skin hydrated while keeping breakouts to a minimum.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </span>Apply foundation (Optional: Follow up with concealer). I usually don't wear any foundation in my day-to-day life, but I really wanted to try this hyped up <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dermacol-Dermacol221-1-Make-up-Cover-221/dp/B00J3G958K">Dermacol</a></span> waterproof foundation that I had seen all over Facebook. I originally ordered it with the intention of wearing it to a wedding that I was in, but it never came in time.<span style="color: #a0206a;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Pro tip:</span></span> This product is only available online in my area, so I had to guess my shade. I got the shade 221, but that still was a little bit too light. I had to mix it with my tinted <a href="http://www.sephora.com/naked-skin-one-done-hybrid-complexion-perfector-P407434?skuId=1814508&om_mmc=ppc-GG_381463959_27499886799_pla-178181930439_1814482_97594850079_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frxo83eGgdBw9Pq6B8v3bS0ZgCEvFhGE0n9jM_2R1_FxoCwsHw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Urban Decay NAKED Skin Cream</span> </a>in the color "medium". A little bit goes a long way, so squeeze only a tiny (I'm talking like the size of a straw opening) amount onto your wrist and then apply it to your face with a beauty blender. It's a full-coverage foundation, so I didn't really have a need for concealer.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 4: </span>Apply an eyelid primer all over your eyelids. I used the <a href="https://www.smashbox.com/product/6031/17797/eyes/eye-primer/photo-finish-lid-primer/studio-artist-favorite#/shade/Medium"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Smashbox Photo Finish<span id="goog_577915880"></span><span id="goog_577915881"></span></span> </a>eyelid primer in the color "medium".</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 5:</span> Set everything with a translucent powder. I used the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Bobbi <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sheer-finish-pressed-powder-P270540?skuId=1287499&om_mmc=ppc-GG_220827279_17572215519_aud-89368448057%3Apla-18283950120_1287523_56697993399_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frOL8XOW2o7fC54cjkymjCFXDerS7nlLpMsF_PzNjUVhoCszHw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Brown Sheer Finish Setting Powder</a></span> in the color "sand".</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 6:</span> For my brows, I ran through the hairs a few times with the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://www.glossier.com/products/boy-brow?gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18fri7CsUtlfkKZGriY3WIZkaEbRZ_bq5kWhlIl9jZNv8xoCY6Tw_wcB">Glossier Boy Brow</a></span> in the shade "black", before filling them in with the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/brow-wiz-P202633?skuId=1056092&om_mmc=ppc-GG_381463959_27499852839_aud-89368448057:pla-178167848199_1056092_97594828119_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frlZxG9QA7o7PKyJnchDR9icenok679Ak4I2K4bVlN8hoCtbHw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Anastasia Brow Wiz</a></span> pencil in the shade "ebony". Since Wonder Woman has pretty high arched brows, I made my eyebrows higher than usual.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 7: </span>For my eyelids, I applied a white eyeshadow base onto my eyelids, making sure to be a little bit more generous beneath the arches of my brows.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 8: </span>I used my <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/naked3-P384099?skuId=1573336&om_mmc=ppc-GG_194585799_15762231519_pla-84437857119_1573336_50233217079_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frO4YqiinVwtwJu2wsHblcItWaNy3Vfh9cNEejGL7mNxoCcF3w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Urban Decay Naked 3</a> </span>palette ("Trick" all over the eyelids, "Nooner" on the outer corners of my eyelids, and "Mugshot" in the crease of my eyelids).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 9:</span> I lined my upper eyelids with the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/long-wear-gel-eyeliner-P270539?skuId=1287473&om_mmc=ppc-GG_381463959_27499855479_aud-89368448057:pla-178161356439_1287473_97594840239_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18fr0svbGdfgWt9Ad4frPavFADKAyYGrBKPncCilDm7lyRoCb5Dw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Bobbi Brown black gel liner</span> </a>and finished things off with <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/they-re-real-lengthening-volumizing-mascara-P289307?skuId=1395482&om_mmc=ppc-GG_220827279_17572215519_aud-89368448057:pla-18283950120_1395482_56697993399_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frPB6ykk3sA9ZE-Ru1YE0iLrX7Z4DhPhNkoHViXRyfBRoCytXw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Benefit's 'They're Real!' mascara</a></span>. (Optional: You can apply falsies if you'd like. I just used <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.ulta.com/natural-lash-kit?productId=xlsImpprod14521121&sku=2500427&cmpid=PS_Non!google!Product_Listing_Ads&cagpspn=pla&CATCI=aud-298467364726:pla-195120613710&CAAGID=31588062270&CAWELAID=330000200000706745&catargetid=330000200000770200&cadevice=c&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frHqB9g5KlVMN6Tye81-NFTSLzAhboXc-A7TMPf-_hQBoCGFvw_wcB">E.L.F Cosmetics lashes</a></span> for that comic like look.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 10:</span> Contour! For that sun-kissed, warrior, Wonder Woman look, I contoured the temples of my face, below the apples of my cheeks, the sides of my nose, and my jawline with <a href="https://www.benefitcosmetics.com/us/en/product/hoola-matte-bronzer">B<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">enefit's Hoola Matte Bronzer</span></a>. (Optional: You can also highlight the bridge of your nose and inner corners of your eyelids with a white eyeshadow too to make them pop.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 11: </span>I applied <a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-Amazonian-clay-12-hour-blush">Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush</a> in the shade <a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-Amazonian-clay-12-hour-blush">"Dazzled"</a> to the apples of my cheeks.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 12: </span>To wrap up the look, I applied the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/velvet-matte-lip-pencil-P78834?skuId=953117&om_mmc=ppc-GG_381463959_27499876239_aud-265276760628%3Apla-181451812359_792481_97594835319_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frhkFGQq8KOEHKEag2uXZ9TX79G4CYK2xNfAGJSufGphoC4d7w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil</a><span id="goog_577915928"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_577915929"></span></span><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"></span> in the shade <a href="http://www.sephora.com/velvet-matte-lip-pencil-P78834?skuId=953117&om_mmc=ppc-GG_381463959_27499876239_aud-265276760628%3Apla-181451812359_792481_97594835319_9031541_c&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAjwqIfLBRCk6vH_rJq7yD0SJACG18frhkFGQq8KOEHKEag2uXZ9TX79G4CYK2xNfAGJSufGphoC4d7w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">"Walkyrie"</a> for a mauve, neutral lip.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you enjoyed this tutorial, and will try it out for yourself! Be sure to tag me in your posts on Twitter or Instagram via @Tran_gerine so that I can check it out! If you have any questions about any of the products that I used or need some makeup tips or tricks, let me know! If you haven't seen <span style="font-style: italic;">Wonder Woman</span> yet, I would highly encourage you to go see it. It's definitely worth the hype!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melissa</div>
<br data-cke-eol="1" />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15702419677950289981noreply@blogger.com0