Hello Nikki turns 4 and I turn 29

club monaco sweater, chanel watch, celine bag

I started this blog at the start of my 25th birthday and it's amazing to see how much I've grown since then. I always try my best to show how grateful I am, but my birthday comes at a time in the end when I can reflect on the past year. And the past 4 have been nothing short of incredible.

I've eaten well, traveled far, taken part in the most exciting experiences and have centered my blog based on that. I've surrounded myself with such wonderful friends-- the birthday chronicles of my 26th, 27th and 28th all document the close bond we've shared. These girls have touched my life in a big way and have created such fun and memorable celebrations I will never forget. 

I figured for the last year in my twenties, I would welcome it with a bang and head off to Vegas. I haven't had a destination birthday and more so spent it with a significant other. So Alex and I jetted off in style (first class) on Virgin America, stayed in the Cosmopolitan Hotel (my favorite), dined at some of the best restaurants: Nobu, Scarpetta, China Poblano Wicked Spoon, Holsteins, and Secret Pizza. We checked out Marquee to see Kaskade, watched the most amazing show on earth- O, Cirque Du Solei in the Bellagio. And we did the average shopping, massage and room service to make any person light up and feel special. My 29th birthday couldn't have been any more perfect and I could definitely say the same for 2012 as a whole.

#Highlights: In January I went to Napa, February I was in San Diego, March, we had some Bridal Shower fun, April there was LA and Maria's wedding in the Philippines. Oh, and then there was also Coachella-- how could I forget <3 (Day 1, 2, 3). May- I was off to New York and purchased my prized Celine. June- I had LASIK and chopped off my hair. July- I went to Montauk (aka Hamptons). August- I revamped my blog, got a new bicycle to cruise around in SF, went to the best concert ever of Neon Trees, hiked up Mount Tam to the Tourist Club and attended another close friend's Wedding in Roseville. September- I spent Labor Day weekend in Lake Tahoe and had Alex's Book Release Party at the Press Club. October- I returned back to New York and November was spent in Hollywood with the girls. Then came December and I ended the year in Las Vegas. I took a lot of pictures through my iPhone but if all my photos translate at least 10% of how amazing this year was, I'll be happy.

Happy New Year everyone and thank you so much for reading my blog. Cheers to 2013 :)

Holiday Festivities

The girls and I exchanged gifts at ISA last Friday. It was a much anticipated night out and am so sad Rach's flight was delayed and missed all the fun :( I got exactly what I asked for on my wish list from Joanne and Tomiko liked all the gifts I got her from her wish list. Maria and I surprised everybody to wear these themed headbands to get us in the spirit then right after dinner, I headed straight to the next Christmas Party..

Audrey 3+1 dress, Zara shoes

Happy Holidays! xx

Wrap It Up

Above are all gifts I think would make excellent Christmas presents. 1.) Blunt Umbrella- These will never collapse or invert in strong winds, making it a very practical purchase. 2.) Jawbone UP Band- I received this as a gift and absolutely love it. You can monitor your activity in the day and look at your quality of sleep at night. Perfect for any health conscious junkie. 3.) Clarisonic- I always here amazing things about this and got it for my mom this xmas. I've never used one before but if it was given to me I'd probably use it then fall in love. 4.) Nespresso U Machine- I got this for my dad at the SF store's grand opening. It's sleek, easy to use and something he can enjoy everyday.  5.) Sunday New York Times- Alex had this on his wish list but any subscription related to your interests will do. 6.) Wings + Horns Robe- I literally live in this and is the one thing that has gotten more wears than any clothing item I own. I have the matching throw blanket, which is basically that without the hood and pockets.  7.) MAC Red Lipstick- My Secret Santa wished for new lipstick colors and MAC has the best shades to choose from. 8.) iPad Mini-- I have an iPad and I have an iPhone but just like the 3 bears, the Mini could feel just right. 9.) Starbucks Gift Cards- I don't know anyone who can't appreciate a gift card from here. There's one on every corner and isn't limited to coffee only. 10.) If all else fails, try making a Blurb book or baking Banana Bread from Trader Joes.

Dressed for Comfort

Converse shoes, LF jeans, American Apparel tank, H&M Jacket, Zara scarf

This is a quick default outfit I usually throw on when I'm in a hurry and know I'll be running around outside in the cold. I've been trying to get in the habit more of posting my "outfit of the day" on Instagram and so far that's been going pretty well. Occasionally, I'll be a day late or so but I'm proud that I've been committed. I'm excited for all the upcoming holiday festivities, including my birthday and already have my wardrobe queued up. I'll be celebrating the last year in my twenties in Vegas and can't wait since it's a destination that's way overdue for me. I've never been there during the NYE weekend so it will be such a fun experience to end 2012 with a bang .