I want it all. Is that too much to ask?

It's been entirely too long since I've written a blog post for something other than work. I've got to try to do a better job of balancing my personal life with my work life. Today happens to be the perfect day to do that.

I read this article a couple of weeks ago called ""The Trouble with Bright Girls", and although I didn't agree with everything it said, it did succeed in making me reconsider some things in my life. It basically touches upon how the most driven girls often times are the least satisfied.

I have always been one who would fall into the category of the "bright girls". In high school I was a varsity athlete, part of the top bands and choir, and a High Honor Roll student. Yet, I always felt like I should be doing something more. I contemplated joining more sports teams, wondered why my class rank wasn't higher, and got disappointed when I was moved from lead-off hitter or was named as second chair.

Not much has changed since high school. In college, I continued worrying that I wasn't doing enough. I had a lot of fun and became very active, but always worried if I was making the wrong decisions when it came to which sorority I joined, which major I selected, and which internships I accepted.

Still today, I debate my post-graduate life incessantly. Will I ever be able to break out of temporary positions? Will I make enough money? Will I live in a cool city? Will I be able to meet cool people? Is my current career path worth the sacrifices?

I have always been, and will always be, a planner. But how much planning is too much? Am I passing on great opportunities because I think they aren't great enough? Am I stressing over the potential of finding something better instead of appreciating and enjoying the place where I am?

I want it all. And I used to think there was no reason I couldn't have it all. But I am finding that there will always be sacrifices to be made. I can choose a great city to live in, or to be near my friends and family, or chase my dream job...but at some point, these things may become mutually exclusive. That is a pretty hard concept to handle because for the girl who wants it all, it feels an awful lot like failure.

At the end of the day, there is a quote that I have always loved and try to apply to my life:

"Obviously everyone wants to be successful, but I want to be looked back on as being very innovative, very trusted and ethical, and ultimately making a big difference in the world." -Sergey Brin

This quote always makes me consider how I want people to look back on me and how I want to look back at myself.

I will always be the type of person who can't help but wonder, "What if?". But I think I would rather ask myself "What-if I hadn't?" than "What if i had?". From now on, my plan will be to take good opportunities as they arise. I may not have it all, but at least I can be proud of working towards getting it.

Cheers to taking chances. Let's see what happens.

Why Women Love Shoes

In light of recent events, I figured I would dedicate a post to the only love that hasn't let me down: my shoes.

Some may ask, why do women love shoes so much?  What is it about footwear that has the ability to connect with a woman? Here's how I see it.

A shoe can tell a lot about a woman.  A shoe can communicate.  A shoe can show how a girl is really feeling.  Even better, a shoe can help a lady take a risk without the worry of getting hurt.

A shoe will never mislead you.  While many women struggle finding the perfect pair of skinny jeans or a bra that fits the girls just right, the shoe is the only article of clothing we can count on to say what it means.  If it is marked 5.5, it will be a good fit.

A shoe will support you.  Whether you are looking for comfort or style, there will always be a pair of shoes to be there for you when you need them the most.

A shoe will never walk away from you. It will never leave you. It will never decide that things got too difficult to stay by your side.  It will never outgrow you. It will never lie to you.  It will never need space. It will never give up on you. It will never fall out of love with you.

A shoe may break the bank, but it will never break your heart.

If only men could be so reliable.

"Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world." -Marilyn Monroe.

Rooming with the 'Rents

It's been much too long since I have posted, but as I finally have a weekend off, there's no better time than the present.  Not only do I have the weekend off, but the rents are both away so I have the house to myself.  It's kind of an odd feeling being "home alone" in a literal sense. While most of the time it is depressing at best to tell people I live with my parents and I have a laundry list of reasons why I can't wait to move out, there are certainly some upsides.  Beyond the obvious reasons such as saving money, I've come to appreciate lots of other little things.  So in lieu of Thanksgiving next week, I figured I'd write about the silver lining of being a recent graduate who moved back home.

There are few things in the world more sad and/or awkward than eating out alone.  Anyone who knows me knows I love to eat out (mostly because my cooking skills are nonexistent).   Now I can get my food fixes without looking like a loser.

A dark house is much less scary when you don't live alone.

Currently, I am loving my permanent position on the sofa with no one around but my puppies.  But in general, I am very extroverted. As much as I look forward to having my own place, I worry that I'll be bored out of my mind without anyone around. So I guess for now, I am enjoying my parents' company.

The drive to work is amazingly short. More importantly, the drive FROM work is amazingly short.  Thank goodness.

2 words: laundry room.

I'm very short, and it is very nice to have taller individuals around to change light bulbs and grab things off high shelves.

My parents are dressed much better now that their stylist is back at home keeping an eye on their wardrobe.

Overall, my relationship with my parents has grown tremendously.  I am so thankful that they both encourage and push me to do whatever I want and make it possible for me to pursue my dreams.  I am lucky to have such supportive parents who have shaped me into the person I am.  I now realize all of the little things that they have done throughout my life to provide me with a happy life.  I will always owe them everything, and I hope to one day be able to be as great of a parent to my children as they were and continue to be to me.  That being said, I guess it doesn't sound too bad to be staying with two wonderful people.  And I'm sure there is plenty left to be learned from them.

Still not convinced that living at home has its perks?  Here are some more important reasons why biting the bullet and moving back in with the 'rents can be a great decision.
http://www.investopedia.com/articles/younginvestors/08/stay-at-home.asp#axzz1eCBrTHUD

It's in the bag

Working girls need the appropriate attire to transition from the fashion Mecca that is college into the real world.  I refuse to give in to the monotony of pantsuits and button-ups just because I am supposed to be a professional.  So here I am searching for my grown-up identity, and at the same time creating my big-girl dream closet full of interesting, yet functional pieces.

On the upside, the time has finally come to be able to purchase all the little things I never thought I could pull off in Bloomington without looking ridiculous.  It is even possible I might begin to pass for older than sixteen.  On the downside, I don't really have a big girl salary to purchase all of these things, nor have I decided exactly what my post-college style is, should, or will be.

Once again I am trying to be reasonable, and get rid of the urge to splurge by posting a picture instead of purchasing a beautiful yet expensive bag.  Can I promise I still won't end up buying one?  No.  But it is highly unlikely that I will be the proud owner of one of these until Fossil decides to hold a MASSIVE fall sale (in which case, I still might not be able to afford it!) Either way, let me know which one you'd pick!

What a cute way to do cheetah!  I honestly don't think I own anything animal print because I generally think it looks cheap and/or tacky, but the rich brown leather and small amount of pattern makes it "spot-on".  However, if the printed area is made of that strange furry feeling fabric, that might be a dealbreaker.

Here's a very classic option that is perfect for business.  The color combo and interesting handle/strap makes it far from boring.  I love that it screams functionality, but I have yet to decide if it is too formal looking for my style.

I adore tote bags, and I am a little bit obsessed with grey.  I love the subtle woven details and the color is beautiful.  I think the size is great for fitting a lot of stuff, but it could be a problem that this purse doesn't have a zipper.  I think I'd be even more in love if  I could get the grey color in the satchel style, but too bad it only comes in tan!

Anyway, let's all keep our fingers crossed that one of these becomes mine one day :)

xoxo

When I Was Your Age

Every kid loathes these words...  Generally, we find ourselves assuming that our elders could never understand the intricacies of being a young man or woman in our today's world.  I mean, my mom talks about how calculators were the most cutting edge technology when she was in school.  How can kids from a generation with Skype or iPods or social networking relate to that? 

But in rare cases, one might stumble upon a relatable Baby Boomer.  I recently read an article entitled "Things I wish I knew when I was 22" (http://almostfearless.com/2008/05/21/8-things-i-wish-i-knew-when-i-was-22/).  Naturally, I was curious to read suggestions for someone my age.  I wasn't expecting to find anything worth reading, but I figured I might as well see what the woman had to say.  Within the article, I found a list of very general, yet applicable, suggestions for a young twenty something. 

So anyway, this article got me thinking about things I wish I knew way back when.  While it is difficult to take advice from anyone outside of your own ego, it is even more difficult to take it from someone who seems way out of touch.  But as a recent graduate who DESPERATELY wishes I could return to Indiana University this fall, there are many things I wish I had known when I was still a student.  Don't get me wrong, I have no regrets about college.  But there is always the "what-if" question that sneaks up when I wonder how much different college would or could have been if I had begun Welcome Week of 2007 knowing what I know now (like not wearing a lanyard around campus). Maybe you'll be willing to take some pointers from someone like me, who fresh out of school and remembers exactly what it's like to be in your spot. 

So all you little freshies (or anyone still lucky enough to return to Bloomington in the fall), listen up!  Here are the 10 things I wish I knew upon entering college.

1. Try new things
I don't care how vague or obvious this might seem.  It is harder than you think to break out of your comfort zone, especially when you are in a new city, trying to make new friends, and build a new life.  Whether it is checking out an ethnic restaurant, wearing something you would typically say wasn't your style, or going to a party where you don't know many people, just do it.  Even if you end up not liking it, you will always be proud of yourself for giving it a shot.  You'd be shocked how many things new things you will add to your diet, how many people compliment your outfit, and how many new friends you will make.

2. Introduce Yourself
There are so many people who stand around texting on their phone, waiting for a friend to arrive.  Put your phone in your pocket.  Walk up to that cute guy you have class with or the girl who lives down the hall and say hello.  It's really not that difficult, and there are only a handful of people in this world rude enough to blatantly ignore you- so the odds of that happening are very slim.  There's nothing I enjoyed more than the quick conversations I had just saying hello while waiting for my normal friend group to come meet up with me.

3. Don't turn down an invitation
I know there are lots of things going on, but my favorite part of IU was the fact that there was always something to do and someone to do it with.  I know that term papers are overwhelming and there is always a seemingly endless amount of cramming to be done for a big exam.  Just take a break and let yourself off the hook for a bit.  Now obviously, this is much easier if you're not a procrastinator like me.  But in my four years off pushing the envelope on my deadlines and short term memory, I learned that my FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) always got in the way of my productivity anyway.  So just go have fun, and worry about your to-do list later.  You'll find a way to get it all done.

4. Learn
Pay attention in the classes you actually end up attending.  You're sitting there anyway, you might as well get your money's worth (which better be a ton considering tuition prices these days).  If you feel like you are going to text the entire time, throw up due to a massive hangover, or fall asleep halfway through the lecture, odds are you probably will.  So do yourself a favor and just don't go.  Spend your time more wisely and call a friend to catch up, grab some greasy McDonald's fries to settle your stomach, or go take a nice long nap.  But the key to making this work is to actually catch up on what you missed.  Don't forget to copy notes from a classmate and read the chapter relating to the lecture you missed.  (Yes, I actually did buy all my textbooks...and used most of them!)

5. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
Bombing one quiz isn't the end of the world, but neither is missing one party. Try not to let the massive web of social and academic obligations get to you.  It's college; just enjoy it.  Make grades + Make friends = Success.  Things worth sweating: Passing your classes, Paying your bills, Staying out of jail.

6. Be Single
I know there are those lucky few who enter college already having found their soul mate.  But for the rest of you, don't tie yourself down for no reason.  Now, I'm not saying don't date during college or anything.  But just make sure that if you know the relationship is going nowhere, you aren't wasting your time, energy, and emotions.  There is really something to be said about how much you learn about yourself when you are single.  I don't mean to go all Carrie Bradshaw on you, but she did have a point.  I grew so much through my relationships, but even more during the times when I was single.  And if that's not enough for you, just take a look around.  There are so many great (and might I add goodlooking) potentials, so why waste your time on some easily replaceable guy or gal?

7. Drink Responsibly
I know this sounds super pretentious, but I'm serious.  Do not mistake me, you should drink (unless that's not your thing, in which case- good for you).  But for those of you who do choose to partake in America's favorite college pastime, just be careful. I had many crazy nights (and days), but I always had a few rules for myself.  a) When going out make sure you keep good company, see Lauren Spierer case b) Try not to get a drinking ticket cuz I hear those things are a pain in the ass to deal with when it comes to court fees, getting an internship/job, etc. c) Most importantly, remember that there is fun to be had without alcohol- although usually it is much more fun with it.

8. Make Time for your Family
Call your mom and dad.  It takes little effort, but means the world to them.  And most likely, they are the ones paying for your four years of fun, so just be a nice kid and give them a ring every now and then.

9. Look into Greek Life
Best decision of my life.  I know it's not for everyone. Try it out before you have completely turned yourself off of the idea.  I never in a million years would have envisioned myself as a "sorority girl", but it became a huge part of me.  It gave me a sense of belonging, pride, and sisterhood. Not to mention, it's lots of a fun and a great way to meet people.  Just give it a shot.

10.  Make Mistakes
This is the time to screw up.  Not big time, but college is all about self-improvement.  Push yourself and get the most out of these years.  They go by SO FAST.  But everything has a lesson, so find it in whatever you are doing.  Even if that means you will never lay a hand on a tequila bottle again.

"College makes me feel dumb, teaching me all the things I never knew."

Have fun you little youngins, I know you'll do me proud. Go Hoosiers!

Material Girl

Everyone who knows me knows that I love shopping.  There's no better feeling than walking out with a brand new somethin' somethin' in a pretty little bag...except for the compliment you get on it your first time showing it off.

BUT, as much as I get a thrill from purchasing that perfect piece, it can get a little pricey.  So I've devised a new plan that won't break the bank.  Instead of ordering all these fabulous things, I will just post pictures of them into my own little dream closet online.  And I will be able to stay within my budget...FREE!  Maybe one day when I hit the jackpot, I can come back to all of the "gotta have it" items, and make my dream closet appear in physical form.  I'll consider these posts my Wardrobe Wish List.

Item Number 1:

I'm not really a Rock and Roll kind of girl, but I can definitely appreciate the style.  This studded shoe is a fabulous way to add a bit of badass in a chic way.  Definitely wish I could take display this kind of fabulous footwear in my closet.

Coco said it best

I used to love feeling my thoughts flow from a pen to paper.  My writing has fallen by the wayside.  In this technologically driven world, it feels like a blog is the most accessible and practical way to keep a record of my thoughts.  Although there is nothing I find more simple and elegant than a beautiful handwritten journal filled to the brim with one's most personal memories.

Nonetheless, I've decided that I will give this blog thing a whirl and share my thoughts with whoever wants to sneak a peek into my stream of consciousness.

Hopefully this little place in cyberspace can be used for the safekeeping of my wildest stories, passionate rants, and most intimate hopes and dreams. I hope for this little project to become a reflection of myself that will inspire me to laugh often, dream big, and reach for the stars.  Maybe I'll even be able to inspire you along the way.

Expect a lot of posts about my inspiration, aggravation, admiration, and favorite quotations.  

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud." -Coco Chanel