Current Winter Favorites

Current Winter Favorites: 

I decided to compile a list of items that I really like or use often. Most of the things here, I found on sale or got as a gift. I used these items non-stop for a while and decided to share the love I have for these things. 

1. Penfield Carson fleece: goo.gl/1nVDU7

Long story short, someone stole my Patagonia in November, and I had to painfully purchase another jacket. I found this penfield jack on sale, and it is the best thing that's happened to me. It is seriously so so warm, and I really recommend getting your hands on it if it's still in stock! I got it for under $80!!!

2. J. Crew Factory necklace: goo.gl/1a3pXI (not exact)

After midterm hell week in November, I decided to treat myself and order this necklace.  With the additional 40% off sale, I got my necklace for $19. I literally love it, and wear it anytime I have to dress up a sweater or dress.

3. Benefit They're Real eye liner: goo.gl/ABkVSz

THIS PRODUCT IS MY HOLY GRAIL PRODUCT. IT IS BEAUTIFUL AND STAYS ON ALL DAY. I bought this on vacation when I ran out of my eyeline, and handz down, this is the best. It's magical, as it is a gel liner in pen form, and it is so so easy to use. This eyeliner is my religion. 

4. Vanille Perfume: http://goo.gl/wJYqpH

If you want to smell like a warm sugar cookie, this perfume is just for you. I got the mini one at Anthropologie for $8, and it smells so freaking delightful. I mean who doesn't like that warm sugar/marshmallow smell. It's wonderful. 

5. Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki: http://goo.gl/nOPOe9

If you have been following this blog for a while, you'll probably know that I am an avid Haruki Murakami fan.  That's why, I had to pick up his latest novel. Honestly, this novel is not my favorite work of his, but it's still a really good read. It's a story of self realization and self identification. If you are into symbolism, stories about friendship, and dreams, this book is for you. Also, read Kafka on the Shore (my favorite). 

6. Anthropology candle: http://goo.gl/AOFnm4

I bought it on sale for $8, and it has made my room smell glorious. Thnk u anthro candle, thnk u. 

7. Polaroid camera: My sister got this for me, and I really appreciate this gift. It's definitely not a necessity, but it's a great way for me to record my college adventures and times with my friends and family. I can't wait to use it next semester and the next couple of years.

*All these things were purchased over the course of a couple months*

Current Winter Fashion Wishlist

Check out my tumblr link for more information about these items: 

http://firstyearwendy.tumblr.com/post/108213641394/current-college-winter-fashion-wishlist-here-i

-rachel

Favorite Places to Study in Boston

If I had to choose only one thing I love the most about Boston, it would most definitely be studying or reading a wonderful book in a beautiful place.  I remember how wonderful it is to look out the window and people watch, seeing all the laughter or the arguments that come along with life.  Call me crazy, but I actually really enjoyed my time studying in these places, and it was probably my most memorable experience so far.

Below, I have compiled a list of some of my favorite places in the Boston/Cambridge area to settle down with a nice book or to tackle that paper *that is due tomorrow and ofc didn't even touch l o l*

Hopefully, some of my native Bostonians will agree with this post, and future Bostonians will be able to study at all these wonderful locations.

*In addition, I did not add Starbucks/other chain stores bcuz everyone knows about them, but these places are also great places to go study as well! (:

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(links below are clickable. click on study spots to go directly to their websites)

NUMBER ONE

Boston Public Library 

Picture I took while studying

credits: bijansebet.com

Location: 700 Boylston St    Boston, MA

Wifi: Yes

Vibes: There are all sorts of different people there.  There are college students, grad/PhD students, med students, other working adults, teachers, etc.  It's really really quiet in the huge hall that you go to study in, and I feel like I am studying in this elaborate European castle. That is so because BPL's architect was inspired by the Sainte-Geneviève Library in France (first public lib) as well as works of the master Alberti and Roman piazzas.  The murals on the walls are by Joseph Singer Sargent who is one of my favorite artists.  However, because of its magnificence, there are a ton of tourists so be prepared for that.  

Why I like it: It's super beautiful and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Because you aren't allowed to talk loudly or sleep in the study hall, you get a lot of work done.  Seeing other people working really hard and not goofing off really motivates me to study harder. 

Recommendations: Go with a friend so that you can save spots if you need a break from studying and need to get up and walk around a bit.  There are also guards in the study room who make sure you don't fall asleep and don't bring food in the hall.  I really like getting my papers done here as well as rewriting notes/terms.  Depending on the time of day you go, the lighting is a bit dim so be prepared for that if you are going to read a lot.  It's packed during finals week so make sure you get there early if you want a spot.  

Nearby: There is this really good salad spot called SweetGreen's that I really recommend if you get hungry.  Their salads are very filling and prevent you from getting drowsy.  

NUMBER TWO

WIRED PUPPY

There is also outdoor seating!

Location: 250 Newbury St

Wifi: Yes

Vibes: I was going to originally recommend The Thinking Cup which is nearby because I prefer it more, but it does not usually provide wifi. (can ask baristas sometimes).  Also the Thinking Cup is always packed and is a bit pricier. Anyways, the Wired Puppy is a nice place to work if you don't have too much stuff. It's a very quaint, cozy basement-y cafe, and I really like working here when I want to drink a nice coffee while working.  The people who generally go here are very *hip* and not your typical Starbucks goer.  

Why I like it: The ambiance is very nice and the music is very calm that complements concentration.  Also their coffee and drinks are very good and high quality.  It's a super cozy spot, and hopefully not a lot of y'all go there so I can continue going there and have the place all to myself. (hahahahaha) 

Recommendations: Don't do work that requires a lot of erasing/coloring/etc. etc. It's quite a small space so be considerate. (Also pet peeve: when people sprawl papers at cafes)

NUMBER THREE

Pavement Coffeehouse

Location: 4 locations in Boston. Check site for specifics. 
Wifi: YES
Vibes:  Pavement is super cozy and a great place to read multiple sources and essays.  Each location has a different vibe.  
Why I like it:  I have only been the Newbury location, but I really enjoy studying here.  It's a great place to go if you aren't planning on getting a crap ton of work done. It's more chill and relaxed and it's perfect for a rainy Saturday afternoon. 

NUMBER Four 

Voltage Coffee 

Location: 3rd. Street, Kendall Square (MIT)
Wifi: YES
Vibes: HANDZ DOWN, my favorite place to study.  Everyone at Voltage is super hip and intelligent.  Everytime I walk in, I overhear conversations concerning the mind, metaphysics, i/o, web design and so much more.  The crowd here is generally very young, usually college students and young adults.  A lot of people who work at start ups near the Kendall area frequent here often as well.  I have also run into people from the Google site a couple blocks away, working on some interface here.  Everyone here is very interesting and the vibe I get from here is the "look at me I like coffee and art" aka why this place exists.  
Why I like it: The unique aspect about this place is the fact that it also is an art gallery.  I have so many cool works from up and coming artists, and I love how they seamlessly integrate the art into the cafe.  The atmosphere here is also very work-friendly, with many seating arrangements and free wifi that is high speed. The staff is super friendly, and I recommend trying their loose leaf teas. They are divine.
Recommendations: light reading or laptop work rather than hardcore booksprawling and mad erasing

NUMBER FIVE

Tatte Bakery and Cafe

Location: There are a couple locations, but I usually go to the Tatte near the Kendall stop at MIT! FYI, Voltage Cafe is right across the street from Tatte.
Wifi: yes
Vibes: One warning. This place is super crowded and overwhelming, but it is still one of my favorite places to brunch and do some light reading.  The atmosphere is very bright and cheerful, and everyone is so happy to be relaxing and catching up with friends over brunch.  You can always spot someone drinking coffee while holding a book.  
Why I like it: While I won't say this place is the most practical place to study, I have studied hear before and got a lot of work done.  I love working while eating a pastry and sipping on their delicious brewed coffee.  It's loud at times and can get busy, but still, the view and the aesthetic of the place is worth to check out as a study spot. 
Recommendations: Go during non-meal hours if you want to study there.  It can get quite busy during the weekends as well as breakfast and lunch hours. Order their shakshuka. DO it. It's heaven in a plate.



OTHER PLACES: Here are some other places that I have yet that go to that my friends have recommended.  Cafe Nero, MIT libraries, Crema Cafe, and the Thinking Cup.