Now that I've lived in my "new" apartment for almost a year now, I figured it was time to do a small apartment tour. It's a major upgrade compared to our previous apartment (ugh, how triggering it is to think about it), but so far we have really enjoyed living here. In case you're wondering why I have the Christmas tree up, it's because we love to keep it up all year round; we see it as a big plant that just makes our space feel much more cozier. 

    Our apartment is on the top floor and while it doesn't have as many windows as I'd like it to, the tall ceiling sure makes up for it. We have a 2br/2ba space that includes a small loft that is currently my office. While the lighting can be so wishy-washy from time to time due to the facing of the apartment itself,  in so many ways does this apartment exceed our previous one; the only major downside being the amount of carpet, lack of natural lighting, and...the price.

    For about $2,500 a month, we considered living here for awhile but the high cost of rent has pushed us to reconsider. As nice as the apartment is, Dimitar and I know we could get a better deal somewhere else like in either Texas or Florida. Does this mean we'll move there sometime soon? It's pretty likely! I used to live in Texas and Dimitar and I both had a blast when we went to Florida. Since Northern Virginia homes right now are way too expensive to buy a home, relocating seems fair. Just a few years ago, homes in this area were $300k but now they're pushing $700k! 

    The appliances are outdated and since we are renting, we aren't able to replace them for newer ones; one of the cons of renting. The fridge is also much smaller inside than what we are used to having so every time we go grocery shopping, it's a fun game trying to see how much of what we buy can actually fit inside.

    

Livingroom

    The Livingroom also comes with an attached balcony and a fireplace that is really pretty to look at; I say look at because we haven't used it yet and as it turns out - it doesn't work. While the Livingroom is cozy, there are a few aspects of it that I wish were different; no carpet and more natural light! My two biggest ughs that I wish I could change. 

    

    Above the Livingroom is my office which is in the loft. It's pretty hard to find an apartment in this area that has a loft so I was shocked to finally find one. It doesn't have a door but it's the perfect size for an office. I've never had my own office before since Dimitar and I always shared one together, so the loft was a huge upgrade for me. 

    The guinea pig's cage fit perfectly along one of the walls and I still haven't decided where I want my desk to face; I often rearrange my office layout until I'm satisfied. It's still in the process of getting decorated too but it'll get there eventually. 

    That's pretty much the entire apartment, apart from my bedroom and Dimitar's office. It's a nice upgrade compared to our other apartment and we'll enjoy it for as long as we can until our moving plans are more concrete. 

Until next time! - Sarah xoxo

    Since I last wrote about my favorite K-dramas for 2022, I figured it was time to update my list with this last years winners. Being a K-drama enthusiast, I always like to browse Netflix for new releases. My to-go to genres are dramedies, horror, and romance. I personally love feel good shows and while not all, but most K-dramas do a spectacular job at lifting my spirits up or tugging at my heart strings. Even if most shows are exaggerated (what show isn't?), I get annoyed at Dimitar when he insists on watching something other than K-dramas...it's crazy but true.

    Personally, I find K-dramas much more meaningful then American TV shows. The stories are relatable and unique, the acting is superb, and there is always a good amount of comedy that I have come to adore. As you all know, I love to laugh so when a show can be good AND funny - it's a win win. Plus, K-dramas are always on point about their aesthetics!

    So lets jump right into this list because it's going to be a long one! Also, as always, if you have recommendations for me, make sure to comment at the end of the post!

1. Reply 1988

Reply 1988

    I was genuinely sad when this show came to an end. Everyone essentially lives on this tiny block where their differences bring them together and it was this kind of rare community that made me love this show so much. In America, such community is so hard to find but this show did such a great job at making you feel part of it from episode one. From school, to love, to adult hood, and changing times, this show gives you a look back in time that leaves a profound message with you once it's over; connections are important, but so are your passions.

2. See You In My 19th Life

See You In My 19th Life

3. Mr. Queen

Mr. Queen

4. Like Flowers In Sand

Like Flowers In Sand

    I wasn't sure if I'd like this show since it was about Ssireum wrestling (I didn't know anything about it at first) but this show ended up being good! It was motivating to watch the main character develop his confidence as a wrestler while at the same time building his connection to his childhood friend. A combination of passion, family, love, and crime, all made this show worth it. An added bonus was that it took place near the water which always attracts my attention!

5. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

        This show is so easy on the eyes and soul without too much drama or politics - just how I like it! It takes you on the journey of a young girl who moves her dentist practice to a quiet village (by the water, of course) but has a hard time fitting in due to her city like expectations and attitude. This show highlights the importance of being down to earth, caring for your neighbors, and making peace with your past; of course with a hint of love too!

6.  Behind Your Touch

Behind Your Touch

    I hardly come across shows that have to deal with being in the Veterinary field so I was really excited to watch Behind Your Touch. Turns out, it's so funny with many twists and turns! After taking over her parent's hospital, the main character ends up with a unique ability that ends up working in her favor. With a touch of crime, love, and friendship, this funny show came with quirky moments that really brought everything together so nicely. If you like humor, this show is it!

7. Castaway Diva

Castaway Diva

    If you love singing, Castaway Diva will inspire you to go after your dreams! The main character gets stranded on an Island but is later discovered years later to the world's surprise. As the stars line up in her favor, she ends up working along side her Idol to rediscover her passion for singing. With hidden drama lurking as the story unfolds, this story was absolutely amazing and inspiring to me - not to mention, the vocals of Park Eun-bin are incredible!

8. Kingdom

Kingdom

    

9. The Glory

The Glory

    I was hesitant to watch the Glory because I'm not one who enjoys heavily dramatic dramas, but this show offered revenge every step of the way so it was pretty satisfying to watch. This show covers heavily on the effects of bullying and since I faced bullying myself in school, watching The Glory was a bit triggering at times. With intense moments that leave you shocked and emotionally involved, I was even more shocked to discover that this show was based off of true events...

1. Girls That Invest by Simran Kaur

Girls That Invest by Simran Kaur

2. First To A Million by Dan Sheeks

First To A Million by Dan Sheeks

3. The House Hacking Strategy by Craig Curelop

The House Hacking Strategy by Craig Curelop

4. Boss It by Carl Reader

Boss It by Carl Reader

    Boss It is a phenomenal book that breaks down what makes or breaks a business and how to avoid common mistakes that many business owners make when starting their own business.  It made me realize that starting a business can be great but only if you are doing so where you can delegate tasks so that your passions remain your passions - not another job! This book gives a lot of hard to swallow truth bombs but if anyone is serious about starting their own business the right way without feeling tied down or exhausted, this book is an essential!

5. Mind Power by John Kehoe

Mind Power by John Kehoe

    A friend recommended this book to me and it really helped me reapply everything that I've learned over these years in such an effortless manner. Mind Power's message can be compared to the Law of Attraction except it's much more down to earth and practical. John Kehoe emphasizes that through visualizing and being mindful of our thoughts and actions so that both align with one another (not contradict), we can push ourselves to create the life that we really want. If you struggle with positive thinking, this book is a must read and one that I would gift to anyone in a heart beat!