I got this beautiful wrapping paper to decorate our bedroom table, I think it works really well with the color of our walls.

This is the IKEA side table with the glass top, the cover of which I can change around according to the season. I think it came out great!

amélie

The original title of the movie is "Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain". The most original and whimsical movie that I fell in love with in my late teens. By now I've watched it more than ten times, also in English, Russian and its original French with English subtitles.

While visiting Paris a few years back, I recognized every single location from the movie. The cafe where Amélie worked, actually exists and located on Montmartre till this day. Of course I made sure to see it.

mari vanna

Birthday is always a great excuse for me to get all my friends together and have fun.  Every year it gets more challenging to make it work for everybody, but I keep trying .

After a long debate, that I go through every year, I decided to make it a Sunday brunch at a Russian restaurant! Who wouldn’t want to be out having some homey Russian food on a chilly February Sunday in a warm circle of friends!

So it all came together at this whimsical place Mari Vanna, so very charming with its old Russian décor and numerous flavored vodkas.  During the dessert, the staff sang a birthday song from a soviet cartoon; a Crocodile sings a birthday song to his friend.  It was perfect - great place, great company and many fun memories.

Now what should I do next year?

n for nina

My birthday necklace! N initial by David Yurman. Goes so well with my already existing quad necklace. Since last year I decided that every birthday I wish for a piece of fine jewelry. And of course, I don't need an excuse to buy jewelry myself either.

s novym godom

Happy New Year! I love these old Soviet postcards so much, such innocent and adorable characters.  Russian Santa always travels with his granddaughter, her name is "Snegourochka" (snow girl).

cat kisses

My friend's Gabby rescued cat, the sweetest thing ever. Me and Justin are thinking of adopting a dog at some point, a really big responsibility, but even a  larger reward.

paper cardinals

It's time to decorate the house for Christmas! This cardinal bird ornaments are by Paper Source, I went there yesterday to find a nice piece of wrapping paper and oh, boy, they have it! Outstanding quality and beautiful patterns.