So one thing that most people know about me is that I am a HUGE music lover. Maybe a bit obsessive some may say? Oh well, I don't mind. I have so many favorite bands, and my favorite thing in the whole world is go to concerts. The year I turn 18 is the year I will start going to Coachella, for sure.
This week was an AMAZING week for concerts. I attended two unbelievable concerts, Mumford & Sons and Imagine Dragons. And because concerts are still on my mind, I thought I would do a recap of all the concerts I've been to, planning on going to (LIKE I HAVE THE TICKETS), and then my concert "guidelines".
Let's start from the very beginning...
September 24, 2006: The Cheetah Girls
Now, should I really count this as my first concert? Yes. As embarrassing as it may be, I was a kid once. And I loved the Cheetah Girls. I went with my mom and my sister, and to be completely honest I don't remember a thing.
June 10, 2012: One Direction
After a quite large hiatus, my concert attending ways were back. And maybe this should be embarrassing as well, but no. I will admit, I like One Direction. And since I think I have great music taste, this little quirk is perfectly acceptable. I mean, just take a look at Harry Styles and tell me he isn't the most attractive male you've seen in a while.
I went to this concert with my sister, and we arrived 8 hours early. Yes, EIGHT HOURS. Any chance to get a glance at the five boys before the show was enough motivation to stand outside in the Arizona sun for over 45 minutes. I was close to passing out, and the girl next to me really did. But it was fun, it was memorable.
Our seats were, not the best, but we were there, and that's what counts. And I had an amazing time.
February 8, 2013: Imagine Dragons
This concert was something new to me. It was at the Marquee, which is general admission. And there were no teeny-bopper fan girls at this concert. Which I liked. Just a bunch of people there for the music. My sister and I made it to the front row, all the way to the left. So our view of the stage was a bit obstructed, but we were there. Front row. And it was pretty fantastic. I touched Dan Reynolds hand, and met Atlas Genius (the opening band) after the show.
February 13, 2013: Ed Sheeran
If I could have, I would have gotten here eight hours early. It was general admission, and I would have loved to be closer to the stage. But other things came up, and I got there about an hour early. I still got on the floor, but pretty far back. It was hard to see anything, given my short stature. But I could hear the music, and still had a fantastic time.
June 3, 2013: Imagine Dragons
Yes, I saw them again. Why not? They were seriously amazing. This was the first concert I went to with somebody other than just my sister. My friend Jordan came along, and it was seriously fantastic. They were just as good as I remembered them. This second Phoenix date was the biggest show they have played, and they were in awe. Dan even started crying! The effects were spectacular, and it was actually really nice to see the whole stage (we were row 18).
June 5, 2013: Mumford & Sons:
Hands down, best concert I have been to. My sister and I had pit tickets, and we were determined to be front row. After some setbacks, we eventually made it into the theater. We ended up second row, but right in the middle. I had the time of my life. The music is even better live, and I was just totally having fun, not a care in the world.
UPCOMING CONCERTS!
July 6, 2013: One Direction
Fangirl Dara, back again. My sister and I will be attending the 1D show in Hershey, Pensylvania while on vacation. We are also staying in the same hotel as them (there's only one hotel to choose from!) so hopefully we'll meet them!
November 2, 2013: TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB
Yes, this needed to be in all caps. TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB. My all time favorite band. Ever. Going to a TDCC concert is on my bucketlist. I'm traveling to LA to see this show (PLUS!!!!). So yes, you can say that I'm beyond excited for this one.
And now, for my concert guidelines:
1) Dress comfortable. I can't stress this enough. People judge you if you look like you're trying too hard. And now, I'm not saying show up straight out of bed, look cute, but practical. And make sure you wear close toed shoes, you don't want any injuries.
2) Don't bring a purse. If you really need to bring something, a small cross-body will suffice. But honestly, what do you really need? Your phone (keep in your hands or pockets) and money (also goes in your pocket.).
3) Do take pictures, but not too many. You want to remember the concert, but taking tons of photos and videos takes away from your experience. Do you really want to watch the whole show through your screen, or do you want to actually watch the show and take it all in?
4) Don't show up 30 minutes before the show and expect to get front row. Its not going to happen. If you want front row, you have to wait.
5) Don't worry too much about how you are moving. Move to the music. If you are constantly worrying about how you are dancing, you aren't going to have fun. But don't just stand there! Have fun and dance!
6) Bring an extra hair tie. You are going to get hot. And your hair is going to be a mess. I always end up putting my hair up, its just how it goes.
Make sure to follow my tumblr (se-renite.tumblr.com) and follow me on Instagram (@darahelenas). I also have twitter, so follow me there too (@darasimanovsky)!
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Monday, May 27, 2013
Summer 2013
Hello lovelies! Sorry for not posting in a while, I have had a ton on my plate with school, finals, and just personal stuff. But now it's summer break (can I get an AMEN?!) and I have tons more time on my hands! I really want to use this blog as a way to document my summer, and show you guys what I have been doing and loving. Hopefully it will be like a little mini journal, but I'll spare you all the details of my boring little life. So I'll just recap my first weekend on vacation, and from now on there will be individual posts for individual days, so sorry if this post gets a little lengthy!
Wednesday:
This was my last day of finals, and after our last exam my best friends Maya, Jordan, and Monica came over to celebrate! We ate some lunch, and just chilled out around my house. We spend a while on Omegle, which is definitely sketchy but super fun! My sister and I usually go on together so it was fun to have different company! While we saw some less than appealing male flashes and creepy old men, we also were serenaded by some guy with a guitar and creeped out lots of people by doing the Harlem Shake with the Harry Styles and Niall Horan cardboard cutouts that I have at my house.
After some chatting with strangers we did the Chubby Bunny Challenge and the Blindfolded makeup challenge. It was really fun, and got me thinking about how I really want to start a YouTube channel. More of a lifestyle sort of thing with vlogs, and lots of DIYs and such. My favorite YouTubers who are similar to what I want to do are Cait and Shannon Barker and Lauren (LaurDIY). Hopefully this summer will be the perfect opportunity to get started, so I will keep you updated!
Thursday:
I awoke early on Thursday for orchestra rehearsal, as we were playing at graduation later in the day. It was nothing special, but a bit awkward as there is some tension going on with me and other members of the orchestra. I definitely felt unwelcome but it was okay because I don't let people like that get me down!
For graduation we were required to wear all black, and I needed some new black clothing. So that meant SHOPPING! My mom and I headed to Grand Central Clothing, a cute little boutique in a plaza called Casa Paloma. I found a really adorable black maxi dress for graduation and also picked up a black romper with a tribal sort of print on the front which will be perfect for the summer. I then headed to Target and picked up a new swimsuit, which is cute, but I don't love. I really am not a fan of straps on swimsuits, I prefer a bandeau. I also got a pair of gold and black sandals which I believe are Dolce Vita knockoffs but I really wasn't wanting to pay $70 for sandals so $19.99 seemed much better!
Friday:
On Friday, my best friend had a small party at her house to celebrate the end of the school year. It was a really initmate gathering, with about five or six people there total. One of the people in attendance was the guy I like, who I will call Bob. It was great to finally hang out with him outside of school, but I really wasn't feeling a connection which was suckish for sure. I have never been successful with guys anyways so it wasn't anything out of the ordinary. He even asked my friend later if she knew if any of her friends had feelings for him, and how he worded it made it totally seem like he didn't want any to, so I really don't see us being anything more than sort of friends. Oh well! I did have a great time at the party though with swimming, Frisbee, pizza, and just hanging out!
Saturday:
Saturday was definitely a chill day. I woke up late (unintentionally, I actually hate sleeping in) which was a nice treat, and had a quick breakfast before heading out on a hike. I got out to the trails a bit too late, and it had already become very hot! I got about 3.5 miles in which was nice. I really enjoy getting out in nature and I can't wait to be able to go hiking more often now that school is out.
I was supposed to go to my friend Tyler's grad party later that day, but my "date" got busy and I ended up staying home and tanning with my sister instead! When my mother got home, we headed out to Goodwill. I was looking for jeans to cut into shorts and mens' flannels. I found exactly what I was looking for (old black Levi's) but they were the wrong size and I was so disappointed! I did end up getting a pair of jeans which I made into shorts, a flannel, and a tank top so it wasn't a completlely unsuccessful trip! I also picked up two Mason jars, which I love to put water/tea/smoothies in as well as flowers and my makeup brushes! They are just so adorable and versatile!
Sunday:
Yesterday I headed out to the lake with my best friends. The whole group consisted of me, Monica, Maya, Maya's dad and sister, her sister's 2 friends, another family friend and his daughter and parents. It was super fun, and we went wake boarding, knee boarding, rode on the SeaDoo, and just chilled. I always love going to the lake, even though I don't enjoy swimming. This is the first time in history I am not sun burnt from head to toe, so I am beyond elated.
Later today I will post about my day today, so keep your eye out!
Wednesday:
This was my last day of finals, and after our last exam my best friends Maya, Jordan, and Monica came over to celebrate! We ate some lunch, and just chilled out around my house. We spend a while on Omegle, which is definitely sketchy but super fun! My sister and I usually go on together so it was fun to have different company! While we saw some less than appealing male flashes and creepy old men, we also were serenaded by some guy with a guitar and creeped out lots of people by doing the Harlem Shake with the Harry Styles and Niall Horan cardboard cutouts that I have at my house.
After some chatting with strangers we did the Chubby Bunny Challenge and the Blindfolded makeup challenge. It was really fun, and got me thinking about how I really want to start a YouTube channel. More of a lifestyle sort of thing with vlogs, and lots of DIYs and such. My favorite YouTubers who are similar to what I want to do are Cait and Shannon Barker and Lauren (LaurDIY). Hopefully this summer will be the perfect opportunity to get started, so I will keep you updated!
Thursday:
I awoke early on Thursday for orchestra rehearsal, as we were playing at graduation later in the day. It was nothing special, but a bit awkward as there is some tension going on with me and other members of the orchestra. I definitely felt unwelcome but it was okay because I don't let people like that get me down!
For graduation we were required to wear all black, and I needed some new black clothing. So that meant SHOPPING! My mom and I headed to Grand Central Clothing, a cute little boutique in a plaza called Casa Paloma. I found a really adorable black maxi dress for graduation and also picked up a black romper with a tribal sort of print on the front which will be perfect for the summer. I then headed to Target and picked up a new swimsuit, which is cute, but I don't love. I really am not a fan of straps on swimsuits, I prefer a bandeau. I also got a pair of gold and black sandals which I believe are Dolce Vita knockoffs but I really wasn't wanting to pay $70 for sandals so $19.99 seemed much better!
Friday:
On Friday, my best friend had a small party at her house to celebrate the end of the school year. It was a really initmate gathering, with about five or six people there total. One of the people in attendance was the guy I like, who I will call Bob. It was great to finally hang out with him outside of school, but I really wasn't feeling a connection which was suckish for sure. I have never been successful with guys anyways so it wasn't anything out of the ordinary. He even asked my friend later if she knew if any of her friends had feelings for him, and how he worded it made it totally seem like he didn't want any to, so I really don't see us being anything more than sort of friends. Oh well! I did have a great time at the party though with swimming, Frisbee, pizza, and just hanging out!
Saturday:
Saturday was definitely a chill day. I woke up late (unintentionally, I actually hate sleeping in) which was a nice treat, and had a quick breakfast before heading out on a hike. I got out to the trails a bit too late, and it had already become very hot! I got about 3.5 miles in which was nice. I really enjoy getting out in nature and I can't wait to be able to go hiking more often now that school is out.
I was supposed to go to my friend Tyler's grad party later that day, but my "date" got busy and I ended up staying home and tanning with my sister instead! When my mother got home, we headed out to Goodwill. I was looking for jeans to cut into shorts and mens' flannels. I found exactly what I was looking for (old black Levi's) but they were the wrong size and I was so disappointed! I did end up getting a pair of jeans which I made into shorts, a flannel, and a tank top so it wasn't a completlely unsuccessful trip! I also picked up two Mason jars, which I love to put water/tea/smoothies in as well as flowers and my makeup brushes! They are just so adorable and versatile!
Sunday:
Yesterday I headed out to the lake with my best friends. The whole group consisted of me, Monica, Maya, Maya's dad and sister, her sister's 2 friends, another family friend and his daughter and parents. It was super fun, and we went wake boarding, knee boarding, rode on the SeaDoo, and just chilled. I always love going to the lake, even though I don't enjoy swimming. This is the first time in history I am not sun burnt from head to toe, so I am beyond elated.
Later today I will post about my day today, so keep your eye out!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Daddy/Daughter Date
This morning, I woke up and was asked if I was free this afternoon to go to lunch with my Dad. Of course, I agreed to this date. I got to choose the restaurant, and I picked one of my favorite cute spots in Ahwatukee, Hillside Spot. This is a cute small and I believe family owned cafe with the best drinks, food, and pastries.
I chose an iced chai latte and a "Spot Chop" salad with fries. The salad consists of kale, cabbage, tomatoes, avocado, wasabi peas, egg, and a house buttermilk dressing. It sounds like a bit of an odd combination but it is quite delightful.
In the back you can see my dad's "Blue Sky" burger, which was topped with frizzled onions, brie cheese and sliced apples. Again, an odd yet delicious combo. I don't eat meat, but if I did that would be something I might order!
After lunch, we headed to the local craft store to pick up some glitter. I am in the process of re-vamping my old dresser in my bedroom by covering it with glitter. Here is just a shot of how it is coming along, but I can definitely do a full post/DIY on how I did the dresser when it is all done!
So this is how it is coming along! It has taken a lot longer than expected, but I think it will turn out great!
So there's a little peek into my Sunday! Hope you all had an amazing weekend!
I chose an iced chai latte and a "Spot Chop" salad with fries. The salad consists of kale, cabbage, tomatoes, avocado, wasabi peas, egg, and a house buttermilk dressing. It sounds like a bit of an odd combination but it is quite delightful.
In the back you can see my dad's "Blue Sky" burger, which was topped with frizzled onions, brie cheese and sliced apples. Again, an odd yet delicious combo. I don't eat meat, but if I did that would be something I might order!
After lunch, we headed to the local craft store to pick up some glitter. I am in the process of re-vamping my old dresser in my bedroom by covering it with glitter. Here is just a shot of how it is coming along, but I can definitely do a full post/DIY on how I did the dresser when it is all done!
So this is how it is coming along! It has taken a lot longer than expected, but I think it will turn out great!
So there's a little peek into my Sunday! Hope you all had an amazing weekend!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Acai Bowls
Today I made one of my favorite things, acai bowls. They are super yummy and healthy, so whats not to love?
If you don't know what acai is, it is a berry only grown in Brazil. It is considered a "super-food", and is super high in antioxidants.
If you don't know what acai is, it is a berry only grown in Brazil. It is considered a "super-food", and is super high in antioxidants.
Here is a picture from my instagram (follow me @darahelenas) of my yummy bowl this morning!
Recipe:
*1 frozen acai packet (I used Sambazon)
*1/4 to 1/2 cup apple juice
*1 banana
*Hanful of berries/fruit of your choice (I chose strawberries and blueberries just because that's what we had)
*2 tbsp shredded unsweetened coconut
*1/2 to 3/4 cup your favorite granola
* Agave/honey to taste
1. Break up your acai and add it to the blender, along with enough apple juice to help it blend (the mixture should be thick).
2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and add the granola on top.
3. Slice your banana and wash your berries, then place them on top of your granola.
4. Sprinkle the coconut on top and finish with a drizzle of your agave/honey.
5. Devour your delicious bowl!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Back From Spring Break
This week is the first week we have back from spring break. Although my break was pretty uneventful, it was quite nice to take a week off from school and all its stress. It is a small bit challenging to transition back into the school routine, and I'm still not loving the whole homework thing again.
I had a doctors appointment on Mill Ave. yesterday, which of course meant that I had to stop and visit the Urban Outfitters right down the road. I happened to have a gift card and some cash with me, so I spent the afternoon browsing around. I ended up blowing all my money, but picking up three things I absolutely adore!
This Ocean Tide and Sea Salt Soy Wax candle. The scent is very subtle, but it reminds me of the beach, and anything to do with the beach is absolutely amazing to me.
This army green tank top. I have had my eyes on this baby for a while, waiting for it to go on sale. But it has been more than three months and it is still regular price, so I gave in!
And finally, this wallet. I literally am obsessed with it. I saw in one of Gaia's posts that she got a similar one that is larger and silver, and I was in love with hers. So when I went to Urban and found this smaller copper one, I HAD to get it. I probably took it out just to look at it a couple times today because I love it that much.
OOTD:
I had a doctors appointment on Mill Ave. yesterday, which of course meant that I had to stop and visit the Urban Outfitters right down the road. I happened to have a gift card and some cash with me, so I spent the afternoon browsing around. I ended up blowing all my money, but picking up three things I absolutely adore!
This Ocean Tide and Sea Salt Soy Wax candle. The scent is very subtle, but it reminds me of the beach, and anything to do with the beach is absolutely amazing to me.
This army green tank top. I have had my eyes on this baby for a while, waiting for it to go on sale. But it has been more than three months and it is still regular price, so I gave in!
And finally, this wallet. I literally am obsessed with it. I saw in one of Gaia's posts that she got a similar one that is larger and silver, and I was in love with hers. So when I went to Urban and found this smaller copper one, I HAD to get it. I probably took it out just to look at it a couple times today because I love it that much.
OOTD:
Shirt: Urban Outfitters
Shorts: Thrifted
Shoes: Steve Madden
Hello!
If this wasn't already clear, this is my new blog and my first post.
I will really be posting whatever on here, so if you are interested in an average life of a freshman in Phoenix, Arizona, then keep on reading! I will basically be posting the most interesting parts of my life; so food, clothes, music and everything in between!
So you aren't totally clueless as to who I am, here are some basic facts:
-I'm 15
-I am totally into photography, good food, and good music.
-You can find me on tumblr and instagram.
So you aren't totally clueless as to who I am, here are some basic facts:
-I'm 15
-I am totally into photography, good food, and good music.
-You can find me on tumblr and instagram.
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