Author Archives: marialeila

Postcards from Positano

Posted on March 3, 2024 by marialeila

I think of Positano now and then especially whenever it’s gloomy and bleak in Prague like today in the morning.  I think of those colorful houses and buildings hugging the cliffs, as well as the relentless sun that accompanied us … Continue reading →

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Romper makeover

Posted on August 12, 2021 by marialeila

Just dropping by here to talk about this romper I bought from Zara last year that badly needed a makeover. I don’t know what I was thinking buying it without trying it on first. I also forgot about it for … Continue reading →

Posted in Adjustments/Alterations, Sew, Shorts, Tops | Tagged | Leave a comment

Back to sewing

Posted on October 4, 2020 by marialeila

The last time I had sewn something for myself and blogged about it was when I made this dress.  It’s been over four years.  I have good and bad memories of this post.  I remember how happy I was when … Continue reading →

Posted in Sew, Shorts, XYZ | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Autumn in Prague

Posted on October 28, 2019 by marialeila

I just realized I write about other European cities but I hardly post about my home,  my Prague.   It’s ironic because Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe or maybe even in the whole world.   I can … Continue reading →

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One day in Helsinki

Posted on September 15, 2019 by marialeila

I feel like I haven’t really been to Helsinki because Lillian and I were only there for a day.  Like most of our days in Tallinn,  it was also cold in Finland’s capital during our visit.  My memory of Helsinki … Continue reading →

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Tallinn, Estonia

Posted on August 31, 2019 by marialeila

When I got home from a five-day trip in Tallinn with my friend Lillian, my husband asked me what was my favorite part of the trip.  I answered “The ferry ride to Helsinki and back.” What about Tallinn itself,  the … Continue reading →

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Repurposed: Perfume bottles and shopping bags

Posted on July 18, 2019 by marialeila

Ok, so I have a new favorite word –  repurpose.  It’s what I have been doing the past few months.  Decluttering, separating, reusing, recycling and yes, repurposing —  anything to try to help save Mother Earth from turning into a … Continue reading →

Posted in DIY Ideas, Home decor/ accessory, Repurposed projects | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Repurposed colored pages

Posted on July 11, 2019 by marialeila

How do you deal with stress? When you’re overwhelmed with worries and responsibilities, what do you do or who do you turn to?  Do you call a friend?  Do you talk to your closest family member?  Do you turn to … Continue reading →

Posted in DIY Ideas, Home decor/ accessory | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Summer baking: blueberry/ raspberry cake

Posted on August 24, 2018 by marialeila

Last month, we came home to Prague from the family’s summer house in the southern part of the country carrying boxes of freshly picked fruits and vegetables. The raspberries were picked from the garden and from the side road leading … Continue reading →

Posted in Dessert, Eat, Snack | Tagged | 1 Comment

Gozo, Malta (2/2)

Posted on July 25, 2018 by marialeila

I think of our one week stay in Gozo with fondness.  This island will always be special for us for many reasons.  For one, Adi was in his element there.   It was as if he wasn’t fighting off the devastating … Continue reading →

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