A Day At The Tea House on Los Rios

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting a charming spot in San Juan Capistrano known as The Tea House on Los Rios. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere feels like something straight out of a fairytale, with its whimsical decor and a touch of Bridgerton elegance. The tranquil setting, complete with charming outdoor seating among lush greenery, offers a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life. It’s the perfect place, especially for young women who are catching up with friends and looking to enjoy high-quality tea in a picturesque, intimate environment. 

The menu offers an impressive selection of premium teas, along with a variety of culinary delights, cocktails, and a special weekend brunch menu. My friends and I decided to indulge in The Royal Tea Experience, a lavish afternoon tea package that allows you to choose a tea from their extensive list. I selected a fragrant cherry tea, which was both refreshing and soothing, and paired it with a glass of champagne though a mimosa is also an option.

The Royal Tea Experience was truly unique and would be the perfect choice if you're looking to sample a variety of their delicious teas, culinary creations, and other delightful offerings. It began with a freshly baked scone, perfectly shaped like a heart, served warm with clotted cream and jam. Next came a mixed green salad, light and crisp, followed by an assortment of delicate tea sandwiches cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg salad each one more delicious than the last. To finish, we were presented with a trio of mouthwatering sweets, which included a rich, chocolatey treat, a tart lemon bite, and a silky, creamy dessert that was the perfect end to the experience. It was an afternoon of indulgence, great conversation, and beautiful surroundings, making it a memory I will cherish.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience, with not only delicious tea and treats but also a beautiful setting that's perfect for taking photos. The charming decor, lovely atmosphere, and the amazing team made it more special. It’s a great place to create lasting memories and capture stunning photos to share with friends.

Stay Weird in Austin

 My Weekend Getaway to Austin: Food, Magic, and Southern Hospitality

Austin had always been on my bucket list, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how much I’d fall in love with this vibrant city. From incredible food to magical experiences, every moment felt like something out of a dream.

My first foodie stop was Aba, a Mediterranean gem that instantly won me over. The ambiance, the flavors, the presentation—it was perfection. Every dish was fresh, creative, and packed with flavor, leaving me wishing I had room to try everything on the menu.

Later that evening, I stumbled upon a spontaneous oyster bar (because, why not?). As I sipped a dirty Shirley and sampled some of the best oysters I’ve ever had, I struck up a conversation with an Austin native. They shared stories about the city’s charm, culture, and unique vibe. It was such a genuine connection, the kind that reminds you how important it is to slow down and soak up the moment.

The next day, I went full-on magical with a trip to an interactive Harry Potter pop-up. The setup was pure wizardry, from themed decor to house-specific drinks. I tried butterbeer (of course!) and a cozy hot chocolate inspired by my Hogwarts house. The attention to detail was incredible, and being surrounded by fellow fans made the experience so much more fun. It felt like stepping into the pages of the book, and I didn’t want to leave.

But what really stood out to me about Austin was the people. Everyone I met was so warm and welcoming—it’s the kind of energy that instantly puts you at ease. By the end of my trip, I couldn’t help but think, Could I see myself living here? The answer: absolutely.

As graduation inches closer, Austin has officially made its way to the top of my list for places to start the next chapter of my life. The food, the community, the magic—it’s everything I could ask for and more.

If you haven’t visited Austin yet, take this as your sign to book a trip. Who knows, maybe we’ll be neighbors someday!

Hidden Gem in the San Gabriel Valley

This fall, I took it upon myself to try and be a more active person. I started by walking around my neighborhood, but I live on a main street so it is not the most enjoyable experience. I decided to start driving every day to a park named Santa Fe Dam Regional Park. The park is located in Irwindale, CA, and is well known by the locals. Today, I will tell you about my experiences going there.

This park isn’t new to me. I would come here almost every summer with my family when I was younger. We would spend the days barbecuing and even swimming in their lake. This was also where I would come to have picnics with my friends and even do film projects during high school. I always wanted to come here on daily walks but never did. Starting October 1st, I have come almost every day and I love it. I go at around 8:00 a.m. and it is perfect weather and sunlight to walk. They have a lot of parking and you can even walk into the park without parking your car. I do 4 miles every day and have created my trail. You can either walk in the park or there is a tail behind the park that you can do. The link to the trail can be found here. There are a lot of geese and ducks there, as there is a lake there. You can also fish and canoe here, though I haven’t participated in either of those activities. I have seen some coyotes, though it is pretty rare and they seem to not be interested in people. 

This recreation area is also home to the pretty famous Renaissance Pleasure Faire. It hosts it every year around April and May and I see a lot of famous influencers post. It is always weird seeing the park that is so close to me on TikTok. I have always wanted to go, but never have anyone that is interested in going so maybe I will change that this year. 

Picture taken by Alonso

Some cons that I have of the park are that parking is not free every day. During the summer, you have to pay the admission fee every day. From June 1st to Sep. 31st, you have to pay $13 to get in. From Oct. 1st- May 31st, you only have to pay during the weekend and on holidays. I wish a park like this was more accessible to people as many can not afford to pay that every day just to go on a walk.

Picture taken by Alonso

When I started being more active, I knew that if I had a place with scenery like this, it would be easier. I recommend this park to anyone if they are looking for a place to get some steps in or even to spend a day and barbecue. It is beautiful and sometimes is worth the admission fee. It is pretty far from Fullerton, but if you are ever in the San Gabriel Valley, take some time to visit the Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area.

How To Make The Perfect S’mores

    S’mores are the perfect treat, loved for their yummy, chocolatey goodness and nostalgic charm. So many memories can be cherished and connected through this delectable dessert. Traditionally made over a campfire, S’mores combine marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for a tasty treat. However, they can be made in multiple ways if a campfire is not on hand. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for crafting the perfect s’mores at home to enjoy with your friends and family or all for yourself.

    For the s’mores recipe, here are some of the items you will need: 

• Marshmallows – Large marshmallows work the best, but any marshmallow of you prefer will do
•  Chocolate – Classic Hershey’s milk chocolate bars are usually the fan favorite, but you can also experiment with any chocolate you would like. 
•  Graham Crackers – The final ingredient that ties in all of the flavor while also balancing out the sweetness

   If you feel like you have an extra sweet tooth, add other candy items like gummy bears,

sour worms, or caramel syrup.

    Now, there are two different ways one can cook their S’mores to perfection and they are

also entirely safe to do inside the comfort of your own home. First, there is:

1. Oven-Baked S’mores

•  First, you must preheat your oven to 400°F.
• For less of a mess, prepare a baking sheet with graham crackers laid out in pairs. Each topped with a square of chocolate and any other toppings you’d like.
• Place a marshmallow on one graham cracker of each pair, then pop the baking sheet into the oven for 3-5 minutes. Make sure you watch carefully to see your marshmallow turn a roasted brown. that is when it is ready.
•  Now combine your s’mores by placing the second graham cracker on top of each gooey marshmallow stack. Now enjoy!

    Who needs a campfire when you can cook S’mores inside of the oven with less chance of it

becoming burnt?

2. Microwave S’mores

    For an even easier way to prepare S’mores, the microwave is the perfect option for making them

at home!

• Place one graham cracker with a piece of chocolate and marshmallow (or whatever toppings you prefer) on a plate.
• Place in the microwave, then set on high for about 10-15 seconds. Make sure to watch closely so you don’t miss the marshmallow blowing up! This is when you will take it out.
• Top with another graham cracker, and now you are ready to enjoy your perfect S'mores!

The microwave option is best for making a treat with less preparation and tools.

Making s’mores could be super easy and fun at home, too! Whether you choose the oven or

microwave method, there is no need for a campfire to continue creating those special memories.

Perfect for staying in, rainy days, or just a craving, you can bring that nostalgic outdoor feel right

to your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and explore in different ways that you want. Enjoy

this DIY recipe and create your own delicacy!

Spectrum Skates

A fun fact about me is I am the secretary for the Lebanese Student Association club at California State University of Fullerton. This past Thursday, LSA had an event to welcome the beginning of the Winter season.

What was the event you might ask? Ice skating at the Irvine Spectrum! It was a very fun activity that brought members of the club closer to each other. 

Let's address the elephant in the room. I have been ice skating twice and the last time was two years ago. It took me some time to get used to the skates and keeping my balance. On the other hand, some of our members were skating with ease while others were falling with ease. 

The rink at the Spectrum was pretty small, but it did the job. In front of the rink there was a big Christmas tree to set the mood. It was lit up with Christmas colors. The turn out at the Spectrum was pretty good. The rink opened at 8 p.m. and maybe 10 minutes after 8, they were not allowing any new people to buy tickets. If I had to assume, 20% of the rink were people with our club. Really great turnout from our club.

May I just say, it was veery humbling to see people ice skating. I thought I was not doing that bad, but then I see kids maybe from around the ages 8-12 just doing miles better than me. Props to them!

My goal heading into the night was to not fall. But I must say, the highlight of my night was when I fell. I was skating and just going with the flow. Music was playing by a DJ, so I was feeling myself a little bit. Then all of a sudden, I seemed to lose my balance and just fell right on my knee. It hurt for a cool five minutes but after that it was funny to look back on.

The rink would go on to close at 9:30, meaning our event had ended. This was the first time LSA hosted an ice skating night and we could not be more proud with how it turned out. Bonds were made and memories were created. It truly was a great night. 

From Admiring to Inspiring: My Journey into Content Creation and Receiving PR

From the age of ten, I developed a strong fascination with the world of content creation. What began as watching YouTubers gradually evolved as they transitioned into influencers on Instagram, eventually making their way onto TikTok.

Over time, content creators lives have been glamorized, filled with glimpses of wealth, endless gifts, fame, and unique opportunities. One thing that always stood out to me was how receiving PR packages became such a defining part of their influence. Watching big brands eagerly send influencers products in exchange for content creation felt almost magical. I loved how their creativity and authenticity were rewarded in a way that aligned with their passion.

It was fascinating to see them create posts with the products they were gifted. Everyone loves free items, especially when it's expensive items you have always wanted. Watching influencer's lifestyle's sparked a dream within me.

As time went on and becoming an influencer became more accessible with platforms like TikTok, I started posting my own videos consistently. Many of them were lifestyle vlogs, haul videos, makeup tutorials, and outfit inspiration clips. I also became more intentional with my Instagram posts, curating them as if I were already an influencer, manifesting the dream I envisioned for myself.

Then came the day that changed everything—I received an email from an agency asking if I’d be interested in receiving a product in exchange for a creative Instagram post. I was overjoyed! I couldn’t believe that a brand wanted to collaborate with me and offer free products in return for my content. It felt surreal, as though all those years of watching others had come full circle. Now, it was my turn to share products with my audience and put my unique creative spin on them.

In 2022 Merit Beauty reached out to me to send me PR. They sent me their Flush Balm and highlighter, and I was ecstatic. Though it was a simple post, the opportunity carried weight—I had the responsibility of delivering content that met the brand’s expectations. A year later, I experienced a pinch-me moment when a luxury brand reached out to collaborate. Armani Beauty offered me their foundation and primer in exchange for an Instagram reel. Creating the reel was such a fun experience, as I got to showcase my makeup routine using these incredible products.

With immense gratitude, I heard from Armani Beauty again this year, gifting me their blushes and highlighters. Shortly after, another agency reached out with a collaboration for Valentino’s Born in Roma perfume—one of my all-time favorite fragrances but one I rarely indulge in because of its price.

These experiences have been nothing short of a dream come true. The transition from admiring others to actively participating in the world of content creation has been an inspiring and deeply rewarding journey. Although I’m far from being considered a “micro-influencer,” these moments remind me to always pursue my dreams and believe in myself. Even during times of doubt, there will always be someone who sees your potential, even if you don’t see it in yourself yet.

Affordable Gift Wrapping Ideas

If you’re like me, the Christmas season starts the day after Halloween is over.  While there is still over a month left before Christmas day, I have already thought about the presents I will be gifting my friends and family. I love showing my own personality through gift wrapping and have recently been looking into ways to make it affordable while staying unique. Whether it be adding ribbon, reusing paper, or finding different ways to create gift bags, there are numerous ways to wrap gifts. Here are three different affordable ways to wrap your gifts this year!

The first way is to reuse newspapers you receive at home. While the paper itself might not be the easiest to work with, it is very thin and tears easily, it is a great way to reuse something you already have. Adding in a ribbon can make it a little bit more festive, some of my favorites I have seen are using the comic sections in the papers. 

Another gift wrapping idea is using regular kraft paper, also called brown packing paper. This one is great if you are looking for a simple wrapping, the paper comes in bulk for an affordable price. One way to personalize is by drawing on the paper with sharpie or makers. You can draw holiday images, write the name of to or from, or even just doodle on it. If you have young kids, this is a great way for them to personalize the gift while entertaining them  too! 

                                                     

Another alternative gift wrapping idea is using the packaging as a part of the gift. Rather than enclosing the present inside wrapping paper, you can use a basket to gift the present in. Baskets are easily accessible at thrift stores and are a popular idea if you are not trying to surprise the receipt. 

While the holiday season means a lot more than just gift giving and receiving, these three ideas can be incorporated this season. And if you’re not a Christmas right after Halloween type of person, then feel free to reread this article after Thanksgiving!

Exploring the Huntington Library: A Hidden Gem in San Marino, California

 

During my recent visit to the Huntington Library in San Marino, California, I had the chance to explore its stunning gardens and experience the tranquility that comes with nature's beauty. The sprawling grounds offer a perfect blend of art, history, and horticulture, and it was an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're a plant enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this hidden gem promises a journey into a world where plants not only survive but thrive—protected, cherished, and on full display for all to enjoy.

The Desert Gardens

My first stop was the Desert Garden, which was absolutely mesmerizing. The cactus collection here is one of the largest in the world, and it’s easy to see why. As I walked through, I was greeted by towering cacti, their thick, spiny arms reaching up to the sky. The variety of shapes and sizes was incredible—some cacti looked like giant, spiky towers, while others were smaller and more compact. The most striking feature, however, were the cacti blooming into starfish-like flowers, their vibrant colors adding life to the otherwise harsh, dry landscape. The stark beauty of the desert plants was inspiring, and it was amazing to see how each species had adapted to survive in such an dry environment.

The Koi Pond

The Koi Pond was definitely one of the highlights of the garden, and for my girlfriend, being a Pisces, it was by far her favorite spot. The peaceful atmosphere seemed to resonate with her connection to water. After the desert, we made our way to the koi pond, which was a tranquil oasis. 

The Rose Gardens

Finally, I ended my tour in the Rose Garden, which was in full bloom. The scent of roses filled the air, and the sight of the countless blooms. The amount of hardwork put into the roses has to be precise and the hard work is due to the countless bees around pollinating each flower. Without bees the world would be a sad and colorless place. I would definitely recommend visiting the Rose Garden during peak bloom season to see these stunning flowers at their best.

A Sanctuary for All

The Huntington Library is more than just a place to see beautiful plants. It’s a sanctuary where nature is celebrated and preserved. The gardens, from the desert to the Japanese landscapes, are living examples of how plants can thrive in carefully curated environments. It’s a place where everyone, from plant enthusiasts to casual visitors, can connect with nature in a profound way. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend visiting the Huntington Library. It’s a perfect escape into a world of beauty, tranquility, and nature’s wonders.

Día de Los Muertos: Honoring Our Loved Ones Beyond Life

Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican tradition celebrated in Mexico from October 28 to November 2. In rural areas, the festivities often begin on October 28, while in larger cities and metropolitan areas, the main celebrations take place on November 1 and 2, meant to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Contrary to what some might assume, it’s not a “Mexican Halloween.” Instead, it’s a joyful time when families come together to celebrate the lives of those who came before us, believing their spirits visit to enjoy the festivities.

The celebration is filled with colorful decorations, beautiful ofrendas (altars), and intricate sugar skulls (calaveras) that symbolize life and death. Each altar is carefully crafted with photos, favorite foods, and mementos of the deceased, along with marigolds, known as cempasúchil. The marigolds are believed to help guide spirits back to the world of the living. Altars are decorated with candles, incense, and papel picado (paper banners), creating a sense of connection between the living and the dead.

Family and friends visit cemeteries, bringing food, music, and decorations to share stories and memories. It’s not a somber or spooky event but rather a celebration of life and a way to keep loved ones’ memories alive. The traditions can vary across regions and families, but the central idea remains the same: honoring our roots and keeping the legacy of those before us alive in our hearts.

Día de Los Muertos shows us that death is not the end. Instead, it’s a reminder to cherish our loved ones and embrace life fully, knowing that we are all part of a larger story.

How to get into an exercise routine

I never looked forward to exercise growing up. I always saw it as a chore and even bothersome. My parents made sure to always take me out on a bike ride, a walk, the park to play soccer or some other form of physical activity to stay healthy and active as a little girl. When I became a young adult, I realized I still felt the same even though no one was forcing me to work out anymore. I knew something had to change and one day as I was scrolling through social media, I learned that it was ok to take it slow and build myself up to where I wanted to be. So, I decided to try new ways to exercise including new environments, sports, and types of exercises. But most importantly, I learned to enjoy the process itself and be ok with starting from the bottom knowing that consistency would lead me to where I wanted to be. Here are some tips to help you get back into exercising or to start exercising.   

1. 1.Start slow: Start with a short amount of exercise and build up as your body gets used to it along with how many times you do it per week. 

2. 2.Be realistic: Acknowledge what you do and what you do not like. Don’t do what the popular people are doing, learn what you like or what works best for you and enjoy the process.  

3. 3.Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels and what it needs to recover successfully. Your body will only perform at its best if you treat it right whether it is diet or rest. 

4. 4.Be accountable: If you are on a set schedule or know that it has been a while since you last exercised, be responsible and get right back to it immediately. The longer you procrastinate, the harder it will be for your body to get back into shape. 

5. 5.Don’t be harsh on yourself: Try your very best and know that it is enough. Everyone has different body types and strengths, don’t compare yourself to others. As long as you know that you showed up and gave it your all, count it as total success!