Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Over the years, my writing and blogging process has definitely evolved. Probably for the better, but I definitely don't have it down to a T yet. My creative process is a bit all over the place sometimes, to be honest. Not only does drafting posts take a while, but setting aside time to take all of my photos is something I've come to hassle with on occasion. The beginning of my blog journey consisted of crappy iPhone pictures and one sentence descriptions that lacked any substance or personality whatsoever. So, I think I've come along way and I've definitely never shared what this process is even like and how I balance everything else I do.
It amazes me that I've stuck to a Tuesday/Thursday posting schedule for the past four years, giving myself breaks, taking my own photos, and coming up with personal and enticing content (or at least I think it's enticing). Being a blogger among millions of other bloggers has shed light on what kind of creative industry this is and what I want to make of it. Comparing myself to all of the "pretty perfect" and aesthetically-strict blogs have taught me that I just want to maintain authenticity and realness with my writing and content, as I have been for a while now.
I really haven't had a second thought about followers or numbers because the success and gratification have come through my own improvement and the small joys I get from people who reach out to me about my work. That's what keeps me going and I think that's truly what differentiates me from all of those other content plug and chuggers who crave superficial popularity and money because I don't get paid at all. I know it may seem a little harsh, but I think now more than ever that criticism deems true. I've met bloggers who don't do it for the right reasons: fame, fortune, popularity, all that crap. However, I've also met hardworking and dedicated creators like me who do it because they love it and get more out of it than just the numbers.
As for my writing process, it usually starts with something as mundane and old school as scratching out rough drafts of posts I want to write in advance. Sometimes I get inspiration out of the blue for a post to write and I will create it right away, but a lot of what I plan on writing is prepared in advance. This just helps me so that I am not overwhelmed with a lot of writing and brainstorming during school. I've found this process more efficient and not as stressful as many other bloggers might, it just works. A lot of what influences my posts are just things relevant to me at the time and surrounding circumstances like seasons and big events that are going on. I've definitely hit rock bottom with figuring out exactly what I want to say or do with posts, but other times I'm on a writing spree and will just hash out material back and forth.
I am my own writer, editor, publisher, photographer, fact checker, and blog designer. I don't hire anyone and don't really have the means to do so. Since my blog is out of a hobby, I don't feel the need to put so much money or extra help into the process. I think the fact that I actually do everything gives me a lot more freedom and personality that some blogs who are run by more than one person lack identity. I have considered blogging as being a part of my job someday, but I'm honestly more okay with it just being a passionate hobby and having my job compliment it in some way.
I have goals I would like to reach professionally in public relations and blogging has definitely contributed in that aspect. A lot of my writing is done in my "soft office," also known as, my bed. As I'm writing this now in my bed with my pup at my feet, I've also done a lot of writing in my dorm room on my desk, in my local libraries, coffee shops, and even in the car on my iPhone. Thankfully, my creative juices have been flowing a lot lately and I think that's mainly because I'm on break and make myself really productive.
I'll be honest, I wish I could develop better photography skills and improve on more ways to take advantage of all the tools I have on my DSLR, but I just can't seem to figure it out. I really would like to get a new lens for my Canon T5i that I've had since I've started blogging and somehow change the look of my posts or create a new theme somehow. My skill in photoshop is really limited and my access to it is only when I'm at school. I've always liked my raw photos, but think my blog could use a little more color and uniformity. Maybe I should take more photo classes, who knows! I just need to take my camera out more.
I guess a lot of blogs benefit from the perfected photos, but it just never appealed to me. Even if there are like little marks on the table I take flat lays on, I just don't feel the need to fix it. Who cares? A lot of bloggers would. For my flat lays in particular, I literally just use my side table and push it over to my window. I did used to use a piece of wood with marble contact paper, but overtime didn't like the look of the gloss. I considered getting professional box lighting, but natural light just always attracts me more and my pictures turn out a lot better. I usually have to wake up earlier around like 9 or 10am to just make sure that the sun is alligned right, it all matters! If I try taking pictures around 3 or 4, I'd be lucky if there was any sunlight because it gets dark so early. I'm also usually standing on a chair when I take photos and there are products and decor sitting all over my room.
Blogging has definitely filled the creative void in my life. I miss all of my art classes, but I learn so much from my blog itself. The writing, photography, and blog designing all contribute to my need of creativity. I've also noticed more and more that I'm writing for myself—I mean that I'm not just creating posts that I think readers would like, buying products to just simply review and hype up, but I'm writing about things that I feel are important and relevant to address or question. Yes, I have been doing some beauty and fashion related posts, but a lot of my friends have noticed my personal and more upfront writing to be more favorable.
As I've always mentioned, I'm constantly changing and evolving as I grow and learn with this blog and in this community of writers and readers. The most important thing I remind myself with is that I do this because I love it and continue to thrive from it. It isn't forced at all and I haven't put pressure on myself to look or seem a certain way. I go my own pace and in that, I think my blog and writing benefits so much. It's everyone that constantly supports me that tells me I'm doing something right.
One of the biggest challenges I face in my life is letting the world around me take its lead. There's nothing more constraining than simply allowing the fate of the world ride its course in front of you—it seems so "simple". Yet the greatest things in life come when we least expect it, or at least that's what we're told. The inspiration for this thought comes from a self-help book I read a week ago called You Are A Badass, by Jen Sincero, and she is a badass indeed. The author, speaker, and success coach writes all the ways one can use everything they've got to live one extreme, helluva life; it's advice we all could hear. So, I would highly recommend checking it out. I won't go into full detail about the book itself, but one chapter titled "Remember to Surrender" includes this Eckhart Tolle quote I found striking:
"Surrender to what is. Say "yes" to life and see how life suddenly starts working for you, rather than against you". -Eckhart Tolle
I had to take a step back and think, "do I really say 'no' to a lot of things?". I mean I think a lot of us can agree that there are many times saying "no" is the only practical answer to things, but when opportunities present themselves, do I find myself dismissing them for dumb and profound excuses? Am I not reaching far enough? What are the things I say, do, react that make things harder to achieve? How am I presenting myself and comparing myself to others, why does it affect me so much? Why do I let it?
I am a Control Freak.
Those of you who know me, love me, care about me, talk to me, laugh at me, laugh with me, or anyone who's just seen my room knows I like things a certain way. I'm not a hypertensive drama queen who whines about small, irrelevant details, or I like to tell myself I'm not anyway. My personality wants to make sure that every little thing in my life, emotional and physical, is spick and span so that I can manage to tackle every big thing in my life. If you met me, you would think I'm to myself, but really I'm planning and processing every minute of my life in my head as new information comes in. Oh, the anxiety!
Without a doubt, anxiety fuels this need of perfection and preparation. If I'm not thinking about my future or the effects of the present, I don't know how I can make sure I'm on the "right track" of life. The direction I at least tell myself I'm going in—hell if I knew I would tell you. Little moments in my life have shown this, my parents have seen me go through it when I was trying to apply for college. It was not easy for any of us. I spent hours and hours perfecting my application, days spent emailing scholarship and financial aid offices, dragging my parents into more stress about which college I was going to, pulling my hair out after being waitlisted for a deciding scholarship, and finally finding out that I had gotten it for my number one school, DePaul, a week after I graduated high school. While yes, everything worked out, I persisted an immense amount because I knew I wanted it. However, I knew, in the end, I would be going to any great college. I definitely wasted a lot of my senior year in dread about it.
There are so many things in my life that I don't let go of: where I'm studying, how much money I have, how much money I don't have, who my friends are, what friends I've lost, family I haven't seen in forever, jobs, my purpose, and every existential crisis you could think of, I've probably thought about. I realize that my worries are not similar to many, because there's a lot of bad happening in the world, and also that I can't control everything in my life or the world itself.
Hands-Off Mode.
Obviously, there are things that you can control, like your motivation and persistence to find a job, the effort you put into that job, etc. However, when it seems like all of my force and energy is pushed onto millions of things or one big thing in my life, I live less. I find those moments unenjoyable and just exhausting. Why do I do it then? Well, for one thing, I really like to fulfill passions and expectations. I know people expect great things of me, so why settle? I make myself bite off more than I can chew because I thrive on it. I also suck at it because I dig myself into a big self-deprecating hole of doubt and comparison.
So, with reading this self-help book, How to Be A Badass, it has become clear to me that taking my hands off the steering wheel sometimes is in my best interest. As I sit on my bed now, petting my oh-so-space-generous golden retriever that is literally taking up my half of the bed, I am deciding now that maybe living a "go with the flow" kinda life might seem like the perfect ideal. Not worrying about what comes next, but enjoying the small moments you have now. Yeah, I've already awed and ooed about presence in other posts and all that, everything my yoga instructors instruct me, whatever my parents confide in me, and every Tumblr post in between—I know don't listen to myself when I need to the most.
Taking my Own Advice.
It's really not easy listening to my own advice. "Read your blog posts, Nat. You already know what you need to do," my mom urges. Sometimes its nice hearing other people's thoughts about what direction they think you should go in—getting outside perspectives is always a great tool for you to go from, but you should never let it consume you. I know I'm smart. Millions of people could tell me how to apply for internships, successful job interview tips, what should be on my resume, how to dress, how to be productive, how to not worry about everything, but at the end of the day, I know what's good for me. Sometimes it takes letting go of all outside factors (opinions, ideas, dad's advice) or just letting go of one.
Just saying "I need to let go," seems so easy, but it is so multi-faceted and complex in my mind. In moments when I need to be the most present, my mind is usually back in the fifth-grade regretting friendship decisions I made. There just seems like no getting past it. When I'm not past it, I'm behind it. I'm never here. I keep saying how time is flying by in front of my very eyes and this is because we are all so time oriented.
Everything revolves around time, it's all we got to keep us going (well I guess maybe not all we got): when we gotta be there, when we have to leave, when the thing starts, when the thing ends, when we have to live, and when we have to die. Time is so precious to us and it taunts us. If we don't get something done in time, we fail. If we don't make it there on time, we fail. If we forget the time, we fail.
I can't worry about time or as much as I have. I can't worry about a trip I'm planning with my college's study abroad because it's six months from now, I can't worry about what internship I might have in a year from now, I can't worry about my relationship status because I have time to meet people, I can't worry about who I will be around when I'm older because all that matters is what I've got at this moment and how I'm spending it now. Surrender to the flow of life, be present, listen to yourself and others, and the rest will follow.
posted in
I hope everyone has had a really nice and relaxing Thanksgiving holiday—I spent it stuffing my face, sleeping, and stuffing my face some more. For lack of a post on Thursday, since it was Thanksgiving, I thought it would be nice to kind of reiterate some goals I want to set for this winter as my fall quarter has officially come to a close and I am on break until January. It's a little weird with my college because we have ten week quarters with no breaks in between and our winter break is like six weeks long.
It can be so initimidating when you have so much free time. As some of you know, I need to keep doing things, creating, and producing otherwise I get into a low place of doubt, worry, and just a feeling of unproductivity when I have so much time on my hands to do nothing. So, I thought it was only right to make a few ideas of things I want to get done while I have all this time over break, as well as, enjoy it because I know I won't get off time like this in the future.
For some college students, especially those who live in the city, don't really go home for break due to a desire of freedom, a job, an internship, more classes, or what have you. However, since I live so close to home, it makes sense for me to just go home and see people I want to see and not have to worry about groceries or getting around the city during our heinous blizzards. So, here are my goals:
01. Get in touch with people from school.
I think last time I was home, I never really reached out to many people from my highschool or even college for that matter. I have some friends who are staying in the city over break, so it would be nice for me to go visit them and do some touristy things over Christmas time in the city with them. Also, I think a lot of people feel like they need to see absolutely everyone they know over winter break, but I'm just talking about some of my good friends that I haven't seen in awhile. Catching up is my favorite thing.
02. Eat healthier.
I would say for the most part I am a healthy eater, but lately I haven't been paying much attention to it. More recently I've noticed that I kind of treat myself more than I should. I think everyone should eat a pizza, buffalo wings, or whatever they want to every now and then, but my eating habits have not been as controlled as they usually are. Maybe it's a good thing though that I haven't been worrying constantly about food, but I know overbreak and being home with endless food availability it can be so tempting.
03. Read books.
This is a big goal for me because I truly have not read a full book since high school. Yes, I've read articles and magazines, skimmed some books for class, but I haven't sat down and actually enjoyed reading something I like. It's so hard for me to find books I like, however, recently I became serious about this and went to my library (yeah they still exist), looked at the Barnes and Noble best sellers on my phone, chose You are a Badass by Jen Sincero, and I'm already 168 pages in. That is an accomplishment for me. I really enjoy self-help books and guides because they emulate the type of writing and reading that I can benefit from and what better motivater to get inspired to live my life the way I intend on it.
04. Apply to things.
So, I have plans. Big future plans; ambitions and goals and things I want to do, see, and accomplish. There are so many things I want to do with the time being in college, so over break I will be applying for a study abroad program in Europe, an oncampus job for next year, and many scholarships that are gonna help me realize these goals because I got nothing in my pockets except a craving for travel and curisosities of the unknown. It's my time to take the risk and leap, no matter how broke I'll be, and just go for it.
05. Let go of future anxieties.
I mainly dwell on the future and what my decisions will entail before me—I hate this part about myself, honestly. I'm so sick of my thoughts wandering into holes of despair and just internal suckiness. I wish I never thought like this, and especially when I have a lot of time off and I'm not doing anything, I get to this state. I'm aware of when I'm extremely worrisome and I know it doesn't serve me at all. There are things I can't control and there's no point in trying to prevent them, fix them, or obsess.
I could go on and make a bigger list of things I want to do, but hey, it's a break for a reason, so I'm not gonna put so much on my plate and actually relax for most of it and be present with my friends and family that I get to see. Vacations and holidays are great, but overworking yourself and not rewarding or granting yourself time off can suck the life out of you really. I don't plan on posting as much within the next month and leading up to Christmas and New Years, but do expect content! I'll be writing for sure, just leisurely and at my own pace. I hope everyone has an enjoyable holiday season!
posted in
I am an ever-so faithful Gaines family fan and a lover of their former HGTV show, "Fixer Upper". I watch it religiously. Chip and Joanna Gaines, proud Waco, Texans are probably one of the most well known interior design couples across America. Joanna just came out with her new "Homebody" interiors book and I have just recently finished their autobiography, "The Magnolia Story," about their backgrounds and creation of their, now famous, Magnolia brand.
Today I wanted to talk about Joanna Gaines's collaboration with Target and her Hearth and Hand collection she came out with last year. I always gravitate towards her display whenever I walk into the place. The collection includes a wide range of home decor pieces, kitchenware, officeware, and home improvement items like paint and tools. It's evident that these products reflect Joanna's sleek, modern, and rustic style. She also continues to keep up to date on seasons and rotates product specifically catered to holidays and specific color palettes.
What I really appreciate is the fact that all of her items are affordable. I've read all of her blogs and clicked on all of the links to furniture and decor items that she's used in homes and they're just outstandingly expensive and ridiculously priced rugs or vases. So, it's refreshing and really nice that a college student like me can add a touch of Joanna into my space without having to break the bank. A lot of the decor probably ranges from $15-$50. Something a young person obsessed with interior design and decor can manage.
I haven't purchased a lot from her collection, though. My two items that I bought was this sage colored Storage Box and this Padfolio folder and notepad. Both of which I enjoy a lot. Coincidentally, both of them were on sale because they were rotating to the fall collection items and I happened to stroll upon them at perfect timing. This sage color is probably my favorite shade of green and the box was only like six bucks. It's perfect for storing anything and everything, while making your desk or shelf space look neat and put together.
My favorite item of all the things she has in her office collection is this little padfolio guy. I was looking for a more professional looking folder anyway to keep all of my important school documents, business cards, and notes in. It also comes in a bigger size! It was on clearance for only seven dollars and I had to have my hands on it—get it Hearth and Hand. Sorry, I just got excited over a folder. It's been great though. I take it to important meetings and it makes you feel professional when you pull this bad boy out.
Joanna has just launched the Christmas holiday collection and there are variances of texture with woods, metals, and warm fabrics. Flannel inspired stockings, lots of greens and earthy tones, and an overall feeling of "home" that makes her collection so inviting.
One thing I do have to say is that with her very eclectic range of items, there are many items that I think probably shouldn't have been added to collection. Obviously, ranges like these have certain items people really love and people don't care for as much. I noticed that a lot of the same product in multiple Targets were being marked down such as some of the small decorative candle holders and vases and goat statues and relics—also known as "crap". I know that Joanna put a lot of personality into the project, so I applaud her for staying authetic to her farm roots, but I don't think many people really cared for the metal goat bookends. At least I didn't.
However, many of her items are fully functional: the plates, dishes, towels, baking tools, paint, books, folders, lamps, and everything else is pretty much designed with intended usage. I mean, that's one of Joanna's motto when creating spaces anyway—keeping spaces tasteful and functional. So, I'm sure her intention behind the products were geared towards families like her own that just want a place that emulates the personality and coziness of home. I get the goats, alright.
She also competes with other Target interior decor brands that I've also purchased items from like Threshold and Project 62. Threhold has more of a traditional style and Project 62 is modern. So, Joanna's line definitely stands out with the farmhouse chic, industrial vibe. She's not afraid to mix patterns, texture, metals, foliage, but keeps her brand cohesive and individual from the rest I've seen at Target.
My support and devoted admiration for her comes from her value of family, as well as, establishing her own personality through a brand. She is fearless when it comes to design making decisions and that's what inspires me the most about her. I also adore her work ethic, creative intentions, authenticity, and realness when it comes to her idea of simply living and thriving at a place you can call home. Also, I'm in love with her cute family. I'm definitely a "Homebody" and I know you are, too.
posted in
I know the holiday season is nearing us—or is basically already here according to Target and many other chain businesses that just can't calm the f*ck down for a bit until they put out Christmas lights and decorations. Just this past weekend I put up lights on my neighbor's tree! What a quick goodbye to Halloween. I'm not even sure people are even concerned about Thanksgiving this year. Anyway, time is going by and everything seems to be closer than we thought.
You know, something as simple as an "okay," can be taken in so many different ways in so many different contexts. I won't go into examples, but it's definitely true. Our definitions of it vary so much. However, I want to make sure that everybody understands that whatever they're currently going through, good or bad, is going to be okay.
I've talked so much about my mental health and it in general because self-care is pivotal in all of our wellbeings; we have to make sure that we can allow ourselves to feel good, sad, mad, stressed, overwhelmed, confused, and everything else your brain may throw at you. We need to also understand that we are all human and sometimes life can seem like a living hell, but that's okay.
I want this post to feel light-hearted because I could go into a lot of deep topics about not being okay, and the message is short and simple—you are going to get through it. I may not know how, the circumstances, the reasons, or the context, but I feel like a lot of people never take a step back to breathe. Talk it out, think it out, and know that you can do anything you put your mind to.
You will fail and struggle, but a positive and a persistent mindset conquers all. You get to decide what holds you back and you get to decide what drives you forward. People are there to support you and praise you. Wake up every day knowing that you get a chance to start over.
One of my good friends, Isaac, and I sat for about three hours in a Starbucks chatting all things life: our current happenings, future goals, our social lives, and everything else to catch up with because we haven't seen each other in about a year. However, he's one of those friends you could not see in a year and then meet up and feel like you saw them yesterday. Both of us got to talking about where we were and wanted to be, it was crazy just how ambitious both of us have become since high school and all we've achieved.
We still couldn't believe we have been friends for about four years, and I learned that one of the strongest assets to a long-living relationship with someone is not worried about where you're gonna be in two, three, or four years from when you meet. I think this just applies to everything, but I remember being so stressed in high school about college and now I'm at my number one dream school and I have no clue how I'm already a sophomore—it still awes me. It just kind of worked out.
I think the desire to be "okay" directly comes from your outlook on the situation you're in because honestly, a lot of times I feel like I could be somewhere entirely different. Cut all the comparisons, doubts, or regrets, because where you are in your life should only matter to you and it is your job to find purpose in the present moment. Stop dwelling on what happened or what could happen—when all you are doing is the best you can today in time, you are going to be just fine.
posted in
I would definitely say that writing has come easily to me over the years, but when I was younger it was hard. I write so much nowadays anyway that I feel much more comfortable than I did in middle school or high school. I was not a good reader, but I was a proficient writer.
You see, the thing is was that in my school, at least, we were taught specific ways to read, analyze, infer, and explain sorts of things that we were learning about—seems like any other school curriculum. My school was driven on the basis of standardized tests, like many schools, so what they wanted from students (in terms of writing) was the average five paragraph sandwich essay with little room to elaborate on our own thoughts because using "I" was forbidden.
I don't resent my English schooling, but I wish it had been different because what I have learned from my own writing and college is that none of it is important (for the most part). What we should be learning is correct grammar and that is still something I struggle with constantly. Kids do not know how to properly comma splice or even the difference between "its" and "it's."
I'm no "grammar nazi" and I definitely don't discriminate based on how well or poor you write because I know that everyone is at a different level and pace when it comes to writing—a lot of people hate it. I guess my background with writing and being surrounded by English majors kind of swayed me a bit into the passion. The freedom of using my own words and thoughts to talk about whatever I want, especially on my own platform, has been one of the most gratifying experiences in my life. Writing is a part of me and always will.
Many people ask me how I can handle writing freely, with writing for my college blog and editing, as well as, managing five to six-page papers on a weekly basis. All I can say is that when I'm in the mood, I'm a writing machine. Words can just easily flow off my fingers. I think it's not only therapeutic but introspectively reflective and releasing.
My college writing, for one thing, has been more about my own interpretations, so instead of research and context-based writing I did in high school, I actually get to think about things on my terms not relating to a certain article or opinion of somebody else. There's no "second meaning" and my professors aren't forcing us to make wild inferences about certain metaphors or what deeper meaning something has. High school focused too much on the content and I think it strayed our abilities to create our own understanding of the texts.
I guess the trick or key to prideful writing is that you can't really compare yours to everybody else's. I know there are far better writers than me out there, but I think recently I've gotten really comfortable with my voice and that's proven some really great work that I've made. Maybe it's also a mentality, too. My mood, for one thing, has been pretty positive lately and that's really affected the way I write and go about writing. Some weeks I feel like shit and lack the inspiration I can normally find.
Since I have basically been writing nonstop this past couple of months, there's without a doubt that I've improved on some aspect of my writing. I still have trouble using "big" words, sentence variance, and everything else. However, little by little I've noticed that it's easier to form my complex ideas and connect them all so I don't fall astray from the main concept of my writing—or at least I think so.
I'm the biggest critic of my own writing and no A or B on a paper can tell me whether or not I really did a good job. Of course, I make mistakes in my writing, could elaborate more on certain subjects, fix the structure of my thoughts, and so forth, but I know whether or not the writing I did was created with full effort and purpose.
One of the biggest things I've learned with writing is that simplicity is a strong suit. Learning how to write less with concision is probably the hardest things for college students and writers in general. A lot of people feel like they have to say so much about everything, but you really need to get to the point and move on. It takes time to develop your style, voice, and comfortability with writing. It takes time, patience, and effort. I'm constantly learning and I hope everybody takes the opportunity to do the same!
posted in
I am in shock by how fast this month has gone by because Halloween is in literally a day. I swear it was September like yesterday. I keep talking about time on here and it is still so surprising to me just how quickly it all changes and how unbelievably fast experiences go by. That said, I thought this post could be a little reflective on all the fall-related things I've done already because it's been a very eventful season.
Near the end of September, my family and I went pumpkin picking at a rural pumpkin farm in Illinois. It was a little disappointing for my mom especially because we always try to look for those family owned and uncommercialized "pick-your-own" pumpkin patches. However, a lot of the ones close to using either has too many people now or already has pumpkins picked for you—or both.
Our tradition of going out into the field and looking for the perfect pumpkin is something my family and I love doing. We even brought my dog Cooper along because we also love taking fall pictures while we do it. We did end up bringing home about five big ones, but it still wasn't entirely the same this year and I guess it was okay.
So, after that, I actually got a chance to go visit my Grandpa in Michigan over a weekend. I love making special short trips to see family and it was really nice because I also saw my uncle and my dad's best friend who I've known since I was really little. Small reunions like that are always so sweet and I'm glad I got to go with my dad and my older sister, Melissa.
Over this past month, I've really become family oriented and have realized how much I value family and make those efforts to connect with people I care about. I've always had that personality trait, but just recently it's been very evident and that's always a great thing to have.
Later this month, I did something I wouldn't normally get myself into. My sister invited me to go to the 13th Floor Haunted House in Chicago. For some reason, I casually said yes and we all ended up there that night. It was me, my younger sister, her boyfriend, and a few other of our friends. I think part of me just wanted to be scared and do something adrenaline pumping and I was for sure on edge.
If you love to get spooked and creeped out, this is the place for you. Obviously, there are actors and designed sets in there, but it makes it even more fun when you just play along and let yourself be scared. A lot of work and time goes into the creation of many haunted houses and my friends and I were talking about the art of scaring and how much goes into it. I let out a few screams ;)
I also got to carve my pumpkin just this past weekend and roast some of the pumpkin seeds. I am not sharing what my pumpkin looks like because it honestly backfired and fell inward on itself, but I did carve the boogie man from A Nightmare Before Christmas. That's probably one of my favorite Halloween movies and I'm surprised I haven't watched it at all this month or any other Halloween movies really. I have been watching more classic horror movies like The Shining, though, which I love.
This weekend, or Hallo-weekend, I had a costume party with some of my closest friends and I went as Tom Cruise from Risky Business. Thankfully, it wasn't too cold out to wear shorts under my dress shirt I bought from Goodwill. I think this October has fulfilled my fall checklist of things to do and I'm amazed that it's almost over and the next thing we know it's Thanksgiving. I hope everyone has a safe and spooky-ookey Halloween! 👻🎃
posted in
"The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let the dead things go." -Anonymous
One of the most redeeming qualities of fall is the ability to start over. So much has happened this year, good and bad, but knowing that you get a reset button is the most humbling and refreshing feeling. It's a warm hug from the universe. Anything you think is going wrong in your life at the moment will work itself out in the future and everything will be at peace.
We hold onto relationships, grudges, memories, stress, and everything else. Nobody is telling us what is and what isn't important to hold onto. Having a chance to reflect and remember is great, but dwelling on the past and what is out of our control will only serve pain and regret.
A lot of the times I try to take control of things. I think many people can relate to that and we all do it subconsciously. We all want what's best for ourselves and in some ways, it can be a really great thing. Taking initiative and going after things is never bad. However, when we try to take more than what we can handle, it becomes chaotic and stress-inducing.
At least I've noticed that so many people, like me, are in fifty places at once all the time—nonstop. It's great to have momentum in your life, but when there are thoughts that pinch your nerves and make you have many double-takes, your mind can really mess things up.
Just these past couple of weeks I was having basically an existential crisis. The fact that I'm almost halfway done with college is a scary thought. Me trying to make every moment count tries to overachieve and put many things on my plate all at once. The anxiety that comes from it is not worth it. I've realized worrying about things out of my control just makes life more difficult than it needs to be. The smaller things that bug me won't affect me in a week, month, or year from now; it's something I forget constantly. This season has definitely brought me great insight as to who I want to be and what I need to focus more and less on.
It's not an easy thing to do. When so much is happening to you all at once, I know that trying to find a sense of release and content is not always ideal. For me, this feeling comes in phases and different times of the year depending on what's happening in my life. I've noticed that the best things that have happened to me came out of nowhere when I wasn't looking or expecting them too. It's like when all is good and I'm more to myself doing things I love, others around me reflect that and things tend to work themselves out.
I find that when I release those dwelling thoughts and obligations, I can take my best foot forward and move onto the next best thing. That's all we can hope and there's no better way of looking at it like that. Finding ways to improve from your past, acknowledging it, and never looking back or second-guessing yourself. Life can be so much simpler. I promise.
"Surrender to what is. Let go of what was. Have faith in what will be."- Sonia Ricotti
I love updating you guys on what goes on during my weeks and I thought it would be the perfect time to reflect on this past weekend full of fun. I can't believe it is already the middle of October. I don't even have Halloween plans yet! Sadly, this weekend I came over with a very bad cold and sore throat, so I've been tackling that while all of these events took place over the weekend. NyQuil has indeed been getting me through. Get vaccinated everyone! It's that time of year.
My weekends are really nice at school because the way my college works is that most classes are Monday through Thursday. I have a three day weekend every week and normally I take that time to study, babysit, chill and hang out, explore the city, or go home to the suburbs. It's a nice time to regroup before the busy week ahead.
On Thursday afternoon, my friend Emily and I wanted to venture out and find the pop up Glossier shop downtown and get some goodies before they leave October 28th! It's located in the West Loop and was just a quick 'L' train transfer. To be honest, that was the day I really didn't feel good, but it's what you gotta do for Glossier!
If anyone is new to Glossier or has never heard of it before, it is a minimalist makeup brand focused on the individual—in other words, "Glossier was founded on the fact that beauty isn’t made in a boardroom—it happens when the individual is celebrated". Their products focus on enhancing everyone's individual beauty and I could not wait to have a chance to try whatever I wanted.
I knew that I wanted the Boy Brow because I had already been in need of a new eyebrow filler. The applicator is small, but the way you naturally sweep it over your brows creates an effortlessly full brow. It thickens, fills, and sets my brows in place without feeling sticky or leaving any residue! I also have been drawn to the Lid Star cream eyeshadow in Cub. It's the most beautiful copper color and gives a dewy and glimmery look without creasing. So, that was a very fun girl day to try out some makeup and all of the workers there were so helpful with finding products. I would recommend checking it out!
Over the weekend, my mom scheduled a family photoshoot with one of her friend photographers. My mom especially loves getting our pictures taken and the last time we all had done a photoshoot together was probably more than five years ago. So, it was nice to get updated pictures and have Cooper join us, as well!
We went to Fullersburg Woods which is not so far from my hometown. It was the perfect fall Sunday and we thought we were supposed to get rain, but we were so lucky. Cooper was such a good boy and I think we got some great pictures, which I hope to share with you all soon.
Finally I got to visit a close family friend in the city before I went back to school for the week. My parents and I made a quick stop in Chinatown so I could pick up some Chinese pastries for my roommate and I to have for breakfast this week.
My family friend lives in the South Loop and has an apartment with an amazing view of the lake and Solider Field. You can see all of the changing trees and of course I needed a picture. It's these types of weekends that I love and living so close to home and surrounded by friends is so comforting and great. Going to school in the city has brought so much opportunity and I am so happy I get to have cherishable times like these. What was your weekend like?
posted in
In honor of Mental Health Day, which was yesterday October, 10th, I took it upon myself to dedicate a day to my overall well-being and mental state. I needed a day to myself and I think that it is totally okay to make time for yourself whenever you need it. I did some yoga, had some introspective thoughts, and am back to writing and getting shit done.
While it can seem so easy to just turn off and take a break as a part of your normal routine, not many people have that ability. I know we are go-go-go crazy humans and if we aren't doing anything we feel like the world is just moving so fast around us—crazy what stress society puts on us amirite? With the entire political climate, media climate, social climate, and actual weather climate changing it can seem like there's no space to catch a breath, step back, and re-evaluate it all.
I believe that everybody's attitudes, moods, and feelings effect everyone else's—I mean, of course they do because when we communicate, we express ourselves and our thoughts. People are so fearful sometimes to open up and tell someone that they're hurting, or stressed, or overwhelmed. As a result, we build up these emotions, not benefitting ourselves or those around us.
If you haven't already read in past articles, I've dealt with the fact that I worry about everybody else in my life all the time. I'm always "other-analyszing". When I really should be self-analyzing. You cannot resort to comparisons and making yourself feel worse because someone else has something you don't. It's self deteriorating. We are comparative creatures and we are always in search for the next best thing. The next best Iphone, Lipkit, job, grade, accomplishment, or what have you.
It is imperative to our health to take breaks. When we work out too hard, we increase our ability to get injured and when we overwork ourselves, we increase the ability of mental breakdowns. People just don't feel like taking breaks because they feel fine and that's when they realize they really need a break once they've hit the extreme. It's definitely not a healthy routine if you ask me.
Like my schoolwork, personal life, hobbies and writing, and everything else in between, I make an effort to put my mind in a place where I feel the most joy and content. I know what I'm like when I'm overly stressed and anxious, so I pace myself. Taking breaks from my blog and making priorities come first, especially my mental health. I make time to exercise, get my work done, work a little, socialize a bit, and decompress at the end of the day doing something relaxing and not physically inducing or strenuous. I try to eat well, drink water, and also treat myself when I feel like it. Finding balance in all of these things is going to positively effect the way you feel and think at the end of the day.
When you get into that low place, because we all do at some point, remember that there is help and people who support you. We all are moving through the world with different mental capacities and different struggles. It is important for you to know that it is okay to reach out and ask for help and to tell someone you are hurting or conflicted. I know you are strong, exquisite, worthy, capable, important, and I will listen to you.
posted in
The ever anticipated room tour post is now officially up for all to see. I know it was a long time coming, but with getting settled into school and adding some finishing touches to the space, I like how it's all come together and am ready to reveal it. I know it won't really stay the same, as I love to add pieces and touches here and there, but for the moment I really like how my room looks.
If you came here to see a full apartment tour, this is not it. For the sake of my roommate's privacy and a pretty underwhelming apartment, I thought it was best to skip the kitchen, living room, and bathroom. It's pretty basic and has everything I need—that's all you need to know. I thought it would be nice to at least show you all how my bedroom has turned out.
So, my apartment is actually an on-campus apartment that was once an old condo building, so it has a lot of history and character. Every door in my apartment is different and we probably have five different types of door knobs throughout the space. This year I have my own room, instead of sharing it with two other people, so I got very excited to have the freedom to just do whatever I wanted with this little square space.
While I had kept a lot of the decor I had from last year, there were some more things I brought from home. If you know me, then you know I always change up my decor a lot and spend excessive amounts of money on textiles and pieces. It's just something I love. This year, I wasn't feeling the pink and green floral comforter I had from last year. I needed something a bit more practical, sophisticated, and neutral.
I know that I probably won't change my bedding after this, but I was inspired by Kate Spear's tufted comforter and love the minimal texture of the design. It actually took me the entire summer to find one like it that wasn't over fifty bucks. I was really bargain hunting guys because bedding is so much money nowadays.
This bedding was the Lauren Conrad Swiss Dot Comforter from Kohl's and I'm not sure it is still available in grey, but the time I got it I was able to apply so many coupons on it, so it was definitely a great deal. The cozy knit throw was from HomeGoods and I can't remember what brand it was, but here is one similar.
I had inspriation of what sheets I wanted and some throw pillows I imagined to go with it. The long embroidered and embellished throw pillow is from HomeGoods. The mustard box pillow and cover are from Ikea. I'll just plug in my favorite store, Target, for their incredibly soft blue microfiber sheets. And then my very fluffy bedrest pillow I bought from Target last year, as well.
As for my desk area, I knew I wanted to stick with my gold wall grids again because I just love them so much. They're the perfect way to take up some wall space without having to really damage the walls and make hanging up pictures so much easier. I added this pom pom garland for an add of texture. Pom poms are coming back into interior design and I think I'm obsessed.
By the way, I decided I needed something over my bed and I was originally going to put the pom pom garland on the wall above it, but realzied that my wall is kind of beat up, so this Vintage Washed Tapestry did the trick. The great thing is that it was on clearance at Target and I think it fits in the space really well.
It was pretty easy finding places for everything and I managed to know exactly where to put my Rifle Paper Co. Yucatan 2018 calendar. I absolutely adore how artistic and detailed these calendars are and I ask for one every year for Christmas. Along with my calendar above my dresser is a basket with my makeup mirror and some products, a jewelry tray, and a canvas that says "explore".
Something that I added this year was this eyelash mirror to my desk. Mainly because it was a bit too heavy to hang on the wall with a Command Strip. I love the way eyelashes look and how they're coming into a lot of designs lately. And it's gold, so what more could you need?
I also have this pom pom dream catcher that I just randomly found at Five Below. I needed something to fill up the wall space above the radiator, as well as, something to cover this awful pole that takes up space in the corner of my room. I opted for a fake garland and some fairy lights to make it more appealing and cozy.
I know my little room is cozy, and I apologize for how poorly lit it is, but it's my little space and I'm proud with how it came out. I know that I'm probably an ad for Target, but I have to say they have some pretty amazing stuff. I hope this has inspired some of you guys living in dorms and apartments because I know sometimes the spaces at school can be hard to decorate or fill when you have no idea how to.
I've seen many dorm room tours and how intricate people make their spaces, but keep it true to yourself because not everyone has the "perfect looking" dorm room and it can become pretty costly. I know I'm always changing things up, but I'm content with how it is now and it makes me even more comfortable living here.
I'm not one to really talk about finances or anything on here, but I am a college student and I have bills to pay like many other college students. In fact, it's probably one of the main concerns when it comes to situations.
Money has inevitably shaped the way our culture goes about the world. Nothing is free and that's why I feel like I should share with you all something that I picked up over this past summer that has helped me save so much money.
So, basically I use this app called Poshmark. It's a buy and sell website for all things fashion and beauty related. It's kind of like Ebay, but more catered towards clothing. There are also other buy and sell fashion apps that I've looked at, but Poshmark seemed the most easy to handle and navigate. I discovered it a while back and couldn't really figure out how to use it, so just recently I gave it another shot.
It's almost like an Instagram for all the things you are selling. I'm an advocate for donating and I would encourage you to donate clothes, however, some items that are of higher value in your closet that you really can't seem to giveaway, can find a home through this app!
In fact, it's probably one of my favorite resale sites out there. It's recycled clothing and I think we need more people to realize that it's better for the enviornment to purchase resold clothes. There is so much clothing out in the world, many people without clothes, and so much wasted material, money, and labor.
Once you get the hang of the app and can navigate the tabs and all that, people start following you instantly. Everyone is trying to sell their clothes, so the more people to notice you the better. I would say that overall, within the past five months, I've probably made about a thousand dollars. Now this is considering the amount that I've spent as well.
The clothes I tend to sell are mostly clothes I never wear and brand named items that I simply can't part with and know that I can get some extra cash for them. Sometimes, I "Girl Boss" the heck out of thrift stores for brand name clothes and resell them on Posh. I bought a cheaper pair of Ray Bans for around $60 bucks. It's amazing what you can find on Poshmark and I know I will continue to use it as long as I can!
You simply take detailed and quality pictures of the product on your phone and make sure you disclose all the information needed. You can make discounts, offers, and bundle items from your listings! It has definitely taught me a lot about the fashion industry and consumer marketplace. You see trends and what people like and don't like. You also get first hand communication with the buyer and seller, so you can make sure your questions or concerns are answered.
I have not had any problems with using the app because Poshmark is very helpful and reimburses you regardless of any shipping mishap or if a box ever does get lost in the mail. You also get free shipping labels which is nice. They make sure people get what they paid for and I have trust in using it.
I know this isn't everyone's idea of making money, but it definitely has been an awesome tool to use to make the extra bucks. Especially, for a college student, I know many people have clothes building up in their small dorm wardrobes that could be parted with. I would highly suggest trying it out. Check out my closet, here, if you're interested!
posted in
There's something about this Autumn equinox and sense of crisp air in the atmosphere that makes me want to reflect on some of my feelings as I've begun school and the new season is changing. I want to be honest here and say that I've become a bit frantic in my thinking lately and there are so many things going on for me to process.
I know it can seem normal for me to feel this way because I have in the past, but more than ever have I felt the need to be doing something always. I am always anxious when I have nothing to do, so when I have a to-do list, my mind is focused and I know I can get somewhere when I'm being productive.
I know most people, especially my age, would love to have as much free time as possible, but not me. I am undoubtedly the most overly ambitious and erratic human being when it comes to reaching for things I want. You know some people take it slow and that's fine, but I feel like I'm always pushing myself almost over the edge sometimes. I give myself breaks and try to be healthy in that way, but as soon as school started I had a checklist of things I wanted to get done by the time I graduate. Pretty scary stuff.
I've realized that the more I push myself into things, the worse I feel. I work up emotions and nerves that just don't serve me. Adrenaline does, but anxious nerves do not. So, I've applied myself more to things so far like joining PRSSA (the public relations student society of America), I'm now the editor of HerCampus DePaul, and I've felt like I still don't have enough "experience" to be successful in the future. Some shit like that.
I've slapped myself in the face because I'm in that mood where I become comparitive of myself and worry about what everyone else is in and doing. I've said it before in my previous post, "Pushing Away Negative Thought Clouds," but we can find ourselves in a trap of comparing ourselves to one another. I need to realize that the things that will come to me in the future are beyond my control. As of now, I need to focus on what I love to pursue now.
Thanks to my mom and some of my good friends who have talked to me about this feeling, I know I'm definitely not alone. I've talked to my parents about my goals for the next couple years and we are going to figure it out together, which makes me reassured. My friends also can relate to this feeling that we all need to committ to a plan and have an idea of where we wanna be, what we wanna do, or who we wanna be with at some point. I just can't think like that in the obsessive nature I am.
The more that I talk and write about this, the more clearer it becomes. It's okay to be all over in your thoughts. It's okay to think about and prepare for the future, but you cannot live everyday worrying about things you can't control. You are going to get the experiences you want, you are going to reach the goals you dream of, and you will find a path when you accept the fact that not everything is going to go as planned.
You are not going to have the same experiences as others in this because it is what you make of it. It is okay to have off days. Motivation does not always have to be there. It is okay to not know where your life is headed. I know this sounds super sappy, but this is something I need to hear more than anybody else. As my dad says, "Why don't you listen to your writing, dude?". I'm trying. It seems so much easier said than done.
I have found, though, that documenting my feelings or at least staying up late and texting a best friend about this has been extremely beneficial to relieving the doubts and thoughts that I have. I know I've already had a great three weeks at school, but the unknown of the future has hit me hard this quarter. Also, treating yourself a little bit and making sure you have time for yourself is very important.
I at least know that my writing has been pretty good since I've started looking a bit more introspectively on myself and showing that on my blog. The response seems really well, too. So, I know I'm at least doing something right. That's all I can hope.
posted in
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons