22 November 2013

Winter White

white is the most terrifying color

Maybe it's because I tend to drop food, drinks, and pens (oops) on my shirt regularly, but I am just so hesitant to wear white. White pants? No. Way. At least, not until there is a stain-proof material to make them out of. But, lately I've seen quite a lot of white on my social feeds- from dresses and skirts to pants! 





But, white isn't a winter color!
Actually, I disagree. White is the winter color. Snow and twinkling white lights. Silver and gold finishes to pretty white packages. Whoever made up the "no white after Labor Day" rule seriously missed the point. I'm still not sure I'm comfortable in white pants for the winter- snow slush on white pants? Not cute. But sweaters, especially that giant cable-knit turtleneck, would be more than welcome in my closet... and maybe even a white skirt? 

I guess I'll just be sure to carry Tide To-Go at all times.

20 November 2013

"Think Like a Guy"



I've been watching Sex and the City from Season 1 lately, and one of the first episodes was about the male mind and how they think about life. Obviously, from a SatC standpoint, it was about relationships and sex- how guys can go without being attached or emotional. But this is not only apparent in relationships. Guys carry themselves with a sort of dominance and attitude that, when correctly used to their advantage, can have them toeing the line between confidence and arrogance perfectly. This attitude is what is so attractive to employers- men can get a job done without getting so attached that it causes emotional stress (for the most part). So, I've been keeping an eye out for the ways males interact through both observations and my own relationships to delve deeper into this idea of "thinking like a man."


Relationships
So, college has been fun when it comes to the guys- there are so many and they're all pretty good-looking! It's a good change from the small selection I've lived with the past 8 or so years, and going to such a big university means that there's certainly a guy that has the same interests that I, and every other girl on campus, have. This semester has been a roller coaster of emotion, but if I've learned one thing from the guys I've gotten to know, it's to not let emotion get in the way of life. If they're interested in someone, they make a move (or wait for the girl to make a move), but nothing drastic happens quickly. Especially as freshmen, they're keeping their options open and are using their free time to their advantage. 
As a girl, this is a new idea. Maybe it's just me, but I get attached quickly. I guess it's because I'm "picky" so when I find something I like- I make a point to show interest and hope that it's reciprocated. I want stability and security. Guys don't want that. Freshman Guys certainly don't want that. They're in sports, clubs, pledging, trying to manage their time and unhealthy drinking habits. And, because of this, they go with the flow. No attachment right away, and not necessarily a lot of effort to show interest. And where does that get them? Usually in a very happy, simple place where they have exactly what they want out of life- whether that be a bunch of random hookups or a steady girl. 
how do I take this as a girl? Well, I go with the flow too.  
Don't get stressed, and don't "claim" something that isn't yours.

School Work
I'm fortunate to go to a school where, for the most part, studies are prioritized above almost anything else. My peers are all extremely intelligent- usually more-so than myself. From study groups, labs, group projects, etc., I've been able to experience male vs. female working patterns a bit. What have I found? Guys seem to take more opportunities to get work done. While girls have distractions ...ahem, Pinterest, Tumblr, online shopping... guys tend to sit down, do the work, get it out of the way, and then have fun. Of course, most of the guys I work with are in my same area of study and realize the importance of time-management and prioritizing. But, most of the guys I've worked with have a "work 9-5" mentality that allows them to study and get work done. If it isn't done at their mental cutoff point, it won't get finished They're going to get their free time, be that the gym, a sporting event, or a party. 
I think that women work differently. I have a mentality that if I work hard for 45 minutes, I deserve a break. And, while this might work well for serious studying, everyday assignments and projects might not need this. Just switching up the assignment might be better than a break, and isn't as likely to get me started on a 15 min...2 hour... Pinning binge. 
what do I take from this? Get it done. Just sit down and get it done.

Stress
This is where I think guys differ most from girls- in every aspect of life. It's female nature to get emotionally involved in life, honestly. Guys? Not so much. Summing up what I've said before, they go with the flow. They take life for what it is. They work hard, take the opportunity when it arises, and are usually satisfied with the result. The confidence they have in themselves may sometimes be a man's worst enemy, but here it gives them the ability to not stress. And, while stress is sometimes good, there is a point where we've just got to let it go. 
I've been working on this mentality, as I think that stress is 100% my worst enemy when it comes to test-taking. I've been working on recognizing that there's a point where I've grasped to concepts that I can and I just need to rock that part of the exam... and pray desperately that I'm good at guessing.
guys don't get emotionally involved in life... and that's probably why they're so laid back all the time.

This is certainly not the most reliable information, as my "research" has been quite simple. But, I've been keen to observe to my best ability to understand the male mind... something I should have given up on the moment the idea popped into my head. But, hey it's been fun! I think there's a lot that I can learn about guys and how they interact with others. On the other hand, there's certainly a few tips that they could take from girls. But, I'll keep dreaming on that one! Until then, repeat after me:

I will...
go with the flow
take the opportunities I am given
avoid getting overly emotional over life events that don't really matter

19 November 2013

Holiday Cheer

Nothing gets me in the Christmas Spirit like holiday ads!


Burberry aka Perfection

Tiffany & Co.

BG Windows

And no holiday would be complete without Rockefeller Plaza! 

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. I love looking through catalogues and drinking lots of hot chocolate! My Pinterest boards are currently full of baking ideas and pretty packages with big bows. Just looking at the pictures gets me so giddy and excited! 

18 November 2013

the Cleanse

Around this time, everyone is talking about cleansing themselves-

mostly health cleanses, to make up for the awful eating habits that form during the holidays. But, I'm thinking a new cleanse. For myself, I'm thinking a back-to-myself cleanse. College has been great so far this semester. I've made great friends and I've had a blast through it all! But, I was always warned about the way people change at school. Sure, I think that many of my changes have been for the better- I've become more comfortable with myself and have put myself out of my comfort zone more in this one semester than the rest of my life combined. I've grown to trust the girls on my floor and peers more than ever before. I've learned that I can survive (and function) on less sleep and more coffee if that means that I don't have to miss out on a basketball game or a late-night adventure. But, this freedom hasn't been all good...

Lately I've been watching more TV and reading less. I've been eating more junk food and less substance. I've been going to sleep with my makeup on and waking up feeling disgusting. I've been using language that I regret later and thinking thoughts that I'd never want to say out loud. And, I've been spending a lot of time in my head- over thinking instead of taking action. 

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"but, isn't that what college is about- pizza and slurred words?" 


Maybe, but it isn't who I want to be. I've changed for better and for worse in these past few months. And, in a few days I'll be going home. I'll get asked about how school is going and I'll say that it's hard but fun. I'll talk about how I've already learned so much about myself and what I love (and what I hate). The reflections always make me miss being at school, but I feel as if the holidays will be a time for a self-cleanse, too. A chance to get back with family, feel the warmth of having adults in the room and the love of the Christmas Spirit. I can't wait to have the weight of classes off my shoulders and the encouragement of those who know me best to help me remember the girl I am.

It's not that I'm severely unhappy with who I am or how things are going. In fact, if life continued in this fashion I'm positive that I'd be okay. I'd get my degree and I'd have fun in the process. But, I'd certainly wish that I'd changed long ago. I'd wish that I had taken control of my life when I had the chance... and by "taken control of my life" I mean think happier, nicer thoughts and eat less junk food, read more books and watch less Kardashians. I'd wish that I spent less time online shopping and more time out experiencing Purdue. And there's no real way to see how my life may go or how I'm going to change. All that I know is that my years spent here have the ability to make me or break me. Naturally, I want to be made. But I don't want to be molded, I want to build myself through thought, discovery and learning. If I go through these years absently absorbing the college lifestyle without hindrance, I don't think I'll gain what I'm looking for. And that is exactly why I feel the need for a back-to-myself Cleanse to regain who I am, re-prioritize my choices, and to appreciate the personal gains I've made this semester.

While I doubt my eating habits will change, a chance to get back to reading and not always being surrounded by at least 30 girls will be nice. While I love being at school, a purging of the negative side-effects will be greatly appreciated. Hopefully, I'll come back from this cleansing feeling less burnt out, more like myself, and ready for more college! 

17 November 2013

Holiday Movies

I think that it's because I am away at school, but something about this holiday season just makes me so much more excited for everything Christmas-y! Having a full month of winter break provides more than enough time to relax and find a chance to do everything I'd like. I can't wait for the lights and the trees, hours of board games and lots of dessert. I'm so excited to dress up and be with family! And, one thing I've been looking forward to for a while? ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas. There's something about the classic holiday movies that makes me giddy like a 6 year old on Christmas morning, but over and over again! 

Of course, there are the classics: Christmas Story, Miracle on 34th Street, Christmas Vacation, and one of my favorites from childhood- The Year Without Santa Claus. Contrary to popular opinion, Elf is not one of my favorites. Yeah, it's funny, but it's just not "Christmas" to me, if that makes sense. 

Here are my Top Picks:


1. Love Actually
2. the Polar Express
3. A Christmas Carol

As for movies coming out...

The Best Man Holiday, Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Wolf of Wall Street, 
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.

Like I've said- so many movies, so little time money! 


15 November 2013

Glitz & Glam Holiday

I recently saw an image of Lauren Conrad in a sparkly dress decorating a Christmas tree...

and, I don't know about you, but sometimes an image pops into my head and I just can't let it go. That's exactly what happened after this one, and I decided that I had to find a glittery dress for this holiday season. I have been scouring the internet since, but it seems that I'm not the only one who is coveting a dress like this- every time I find one that I like, they're either sold out or don't have my size.


The hardest part is that, with gold and sequins, there's a very fine line between glamorous and... cheap. Yes, I said it. Not only that, but I want something classy. No cutouts, a decent length, sleeves (it is winter). I've found a few that I like... but nothing that is the dress.

Of course, the wearable glitter doesn't end at dresses- every occasion's outfit can embody the Kate Spade mantra...
pop, fizz, clink! 










While I daydream about all things sparkly and gold,
my search for the perfect dress will continue on Pinterest

p.s. I am so over this chevron obsession. Chevron everything? No thanks. 

14 November 2013

Cute vs. Functional: the iPad Edition

so, an iPad is at the top of my Christmas list

I know, I've been talking about getting one for.. forever. Hopefully I've been good and Santa will be able to fill this void in my life, because how can I live in this modern world without a tablet?! 

Your guess is as good as mine.

So, naturally, I'll have to have a fabulous case for this new addition to my life. And that is where the million-dollar questions comes in: to go for looks or safety? I mean, of course I want a case that will protect the screen and everything in transport. But, I'm really not a fan of the giant Otterbox cases or anything like that. The Apple smart cases are just... so generic. Luckily, my girls Lilly and Kate have my back! 


I really like this Kate Spade Folio


But, of course this sleeve is so fun! 


Or, I could go for cute and functional with this Lilly case
the only problem with this one is that I'm not a huge fan of any of the prints offered...

So, that's my dilemma! 
I am calling all iPad owners to tell me what they've found to be the best option-
or, more importantly, do the cute cases do the job?



13 November 2013

Jung Typology: INTJ

I can't tell you how often I've been relying on this simple test these past few months...

My first encounter with the Jung Typology/ Meyers Briggs test was freshman year of high school. Then, I took the test to get my grade in the class and didn't give it a second thought (I'm not kidding- I couldn't tell you what my 4-letter type was then). My next experience was with a career evaluation, where I scored an ISTJ and was matched with Pharmacy... woo! I've taken it twice since then- once a year these past two years- and have scored either an INTJ or ISTJ. But, most recently I was given the "N" in that fluctuating third category.



What does this mean? Well, I've found that it can really mean whatever you make it. Just like a relationship or a volunteer job or a paper, you get out what you put in. And, while I've relied heavily on this test- it did determine my career path- I don't think that it has to determine how a person interacts or behaves in a given setting. Sure, these types of things are important when learning how to work and cooperate with others, especially when the different types can cause interactions to vary so greatly. And that is a fantastic bit of knowledge to have.

On looking into this personality typing, I was able to understand what makes me, me.
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I always wondered why I didn't have as many friends or why I spent many nights at home with a friend or two. Why didn't I stress the little stuff like so many of my friends? And why do I care so much about my future- more so than anyone else that I know? Well, look no further than the test! It explained why I was so different- and, fun fact, INTJ is the rarest type! Not only was it an explanation, but I've recently been able to apply it to my life and understand how to work with others and make myself seem, well, less lame. 

I've embraced who I've been made to be- my introversion is great for studying! My focus on the big picture is such a stress relief when it comes to exams, and the fact that I like to plan and be in-control has saved me this semester when it comes to time-management and organization. But I learned that I need to be more proactive in meeting people. I need to put myself out there, be vulnerable, and be willing to be out of my comfort zone so that others might stay in theirs. 
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I may have the most socially awkward personality type, but I'm also the rarest! 
so that means I'm special, right? ;)

But, looking into this, I also came to the realization that this personality type does not have to define me. Yes, it's true that I value my time alone and I am an absolute freak when it comes to having a schedule. But I have times where I just can't not go out. There are times where I worry about every single little detail (ahem.. when I'm getting dressed), and sometimes I forget the logic and do something crazy! And even though that makes me seriously uncomfortable, I've grown so much from putting myself out there. 

And even though my career has been decided based on this test, that doesn't mean that what I do with it necessarily has to be. Because, in the end, we determine how the world sees us-

whether that's where we're most comfortable, 
or most uncomfortable 


12 November 2013

Puppy Fever

It seems like everyone is getting puppies!

From the fabulous College Prepster to fellow college students to people I went to high school with, it seems like my Instagram feed has been full of the adorable balls of fur lately! Being the lover of dogs that I am- and the fact that I can't have my dog with me here at school- these pictures have given me serious... 

puppy fever.

at least it's not baby fever!
I have literally been google searching puppies in between assignments and classes. It's crazy to think that housing arrangements for next year are already being made and some friends and I have been talking... apartment or dorm? This recent desire for a puppy has me almost convinced that an apartment is what we need to do! I mean, how fun would it be to have a place with some awesome girlfriends and a furry friend?


The only problem with this is the idea that I'd be "replacing" my dog at home. Because I'm sentimental like that, I feel as if it'd be unfair to get a new puppy and not bring my current dog to school with me... but, Millie, if you're reading this I could never replace you! 

puppies are just too cute!



11 November 2013

Purdue University Dance Marathon ReCap

I've talked a lot lately about my love of Riley Hospital and the Dance Marathon

I guess it's because I'm constantly searching for inspiration and a way to help/ inspire others that I find this cause so appealing. Or maybe its because it helps makes the lives of children- children who have been through 35 surgeries, chemo, etc- and their families easier. The children are happy and fearless. And even though we are supposed to be the ones raising the money and saving their lives,
they are the ones who are changing lives.






It was a long marathon: 18 hours through the night! By the end, I was seeing people fall asleep standing up and everyone was a little bit slap-happy. But nothing hurts and nobody is tired when they see $1 Million raised in one year! We set the record for dance marathons and are now in the top 5 fundraisers for Riley Children's Hospital! 


even though I am still recovering, I already can't wait to start up again and 
change more lives!

10 November 2013

Inspiration Sunday


I came across this video on Facebook and it gave me this wonderful, warm feeling after watching it. 

In this world of keeping up with the Joneses and worrying so much about how others view us, it becomes extremely simple for women to lose sight of the beauty that they possess. Living on a college campus, I see a pretty good representation of all the different self-image struggles that girls can be faced with. From playing dumb to showing a little tooooo much body for the weather, to getting drunk and allowing guys to take advantage of them, it's evident that confidence and self-worth is a lost commodity in this world. 

and I'll be the first to say that I'm not immune to this, either

I have days where nothing looks right. Or days I feel guilty for eating. I have days where I put up this incredible wall, because who wants to get inside my head, anyways? Just like every other girl on this planet, I need a reminder that my life is not being catered to someone else's liking. I am free to be who I want- to enjoy what I want, and to love myself. We have all been placed on this earth with a divine reason. Whatever it may be, it is not dictated by our clothes, or our grades. The pimple on my face is not a deciding factor in whether or not I am loved, or special, or awesome. 

So, I strongly recommend you take a moment to watch this short, 3 minute video and remember that you are great;

You are loved. 


08 November 2013

Seriously Cute Kids

this weekend is going to be one that focuses on the kids

The Riley Dance Marathon- a huge fundraiser for Riley Children's Hospital- has dictated all plans this weekend. I'll have the chance to meet some seriously inspiring Cancer fighters, play games, and just make them feel like the heroes that they are! I kindof love kids... or other people's kids, I should say. The best pictures and videos are of kids just being the unguarded kids that they are! 

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If you've been on the internet at all lately, I'm sure you've seen what I have- the stylish kids, the crying kids, everything! Since these images and videos have been on my radar for a while, I thought I'd share a few of my favorites. 

my parents actually did this to my sister and I once... I wonder if they took video?






Seriously?! When did children-as-little-adults become okay? They're obviously adorable and almost too much to handle, but what happened to torn jeans and t shirts? Oh who am I kidding.. I'd dress my kids like this too. 

where can I get one, just for a day?

07 November 2013

21 Before 21 Update

I promised I'd periodically give updates on how my "bucket list" is progressing...

After completing a month without sweets, I'm proud to say that my sweet tooth has indeed diminished! I hardly feel the need for dessert and I don't really snack all that much. So, to everyone with a sweet tooth as bad as mine- go for a month off and see where you end up! 

Feeding off these healthier eating habits, I have been trying to live a healthier lifestyle and working out regularly. My goal is to run the Indianapolis Mini Marathon this coming May- something that I've wanted to do for the past few years but have always chickened out on. I have a short race lined up for Thanksgiving that will hopefully propel my training into the cold winter. 

Last update, I mentioned that I was working on accessorizing... and I think I've reached my goal! I've come to accept that I will never be a "jewelry girl", but I have definitely progressed. Instead of jewelry, belts, etc. being after-thoughts, they are defining thoughts in my outfit process. When I pick out what I plan to wear, I mentally go through my jewelry and what pieces I can wear. I recently bought a monogrammed ring that I have yet to wear- but plan to very soon! My mom bought me a lovely statement necklace for my birthday that I wish I could wear every day but it just would be too repetitive. While I may not have the most extensive jewelry selection, I'm slowly building my choices and really embracing the freshness that I new piece can bring to an "old" outfit... another goal crossed off! 

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This weekend I will be crossing off my #16- get into a cause! I will be participating in an 18 hour dance marathon at Purdue that benefits Riley. Yes, there will be dancing, but there will be games, theme contests, Riley stories, and so much more. Thousands of students come to the PUDM to have a great weekend and benefit an even better hospital! Our goal is to raise $1 Million, and I believe that it is possible. This Sunday we'll find out the total, which will be so exciting!
possibly even more exciting? going to sleep after 18 hours on my feet! 

Another goal that I might be reaching in the near future is to take a class for fun! I have 13 credit hours that I am required to take next semester, so it's a great time to take a class that I find to be purely entertainment. One of my best friends is going to take a ballet class. I was thinking a foreign language (francaise?) but I've been looking at all kinds of classes that I never would have imagined would even be offered! 

All-in-all, I have been keeping these goals in the front of my mind so that I can achieve them all on time! Because I've been loving reading so much, I'm thinking about adding a #20.5 (so it'll still be a total of 21 things) that is to read 100 books! A huge goal, yes. But it's one that I am always doing and will give me the motivation to read read read! 

When I think of the 21 things that I plan to get done, it can seem overwhelming... a lot of my goals take time and energy, and planning. But, that's the beauty of having such a long time limit. A little under two years at this point, but I have so much to do that I can't take a break. I am constantly working towards at least one goal, but I don't get overwhelmed because of the long time limit. For a planning perfectionist like myself, this is working swimmingly! 

how are your goals going?

06 November 2013

Lilly Resort 2013

okay this collection officially makes me want to go on vacation


Of course, leave it to me to gravitate towards the navy and purple... but in my defense a lot of the items are in this color scheme. Since I won't be traveling anywhere this resort season, I tried to be practical and pick my favorite items that I could actually use an wear! The two dresses are incredible. I love the maxi so much and I think it'd work perfectly for all seasons. The travel pants are now in more colors, which is perfect. I have a pair and they're the most comfortable, wonderful pants/leggings I've worn. 

I never would have expected Lilly to fail, 
but I really love everything in this collection.

especially the tiger sweater

05 November 2013

Great Coats

I mentioned earlier that I somehow came to college without a big warm coat...

I've lived in the midwest my whole life, so it wouldn't be off to assume that I own a big, warm coat for the winter... but I don't. I guess I've always been resistant to the idea of coats. They're big, bulky, and just as hassle. But I've come to accept that a coat is a necessity... but that doesn't mean that it has to make me look like an eskimo. I've been on the hunt for a stylish and warm look, and I've managed to find a few contenders:





Ralph Lauren

So it's apparent that I'm liking the "cocoon" look right now. Really, I just hate when my neck is cold. I always wear scarves and have recently fallen in love with turtlenecks and their endless layering options. Of course, if I had to pick the coat- you know, the one that would be my dream coat? Well, feast your eyes: 


The Burberry Trench. Coming in just under $2,000... it's certainly not practical for my currently lifestyle or position. I'm not counting on this showing up in my closet anytime soon, 

But, it sure is fun to dream.

04 November 2013

Hometown Pride

I regularly find myself daydreaming of being somewhere else or doing something else...

And I know this isn't good... or healthy. It's to the point that I feel guilty for wishing that I'd grown up somewhere different or that I wasn't "stuck" in the midwest. I'm consciously trying to change this habit- love where I'm from and embrace my surroundings while they're I'm here. Honestly, it's extremely hard since the midwest doesn't always offer that big city excitement that I see in movies or in the lives of others. And my major has me pretty strapped down to my studies without much room for fulfilling "daydreams". I'll be the first to say that this is annoying and unbearable at times, but I'm trying to manage my place and my time to benefit my life in the greatest way possible. 

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I get most of my ideas and inspiration from other forms of media, so it was only a matter of time before I came across articles of Angela Ahrendts and her time at Burberry. Or, more importantly, the fact that she is from a small town 15 minutes away from my house. From New Palastine, Indiana to London and Burberry, I was inspired more than ever before. She went to college at Ball State and lived her dreams from there. Once I made all the connections and understood her path to "power", something in my settled. 

Contrary to what I'd read and seen everywhere else, I realized that I don't need to be anywhere else or study anything different to get where I want to be. I don't need to move and live in a tiny, expensive apartment. I don't need to dislike where I'm from or where I currently am, because success comes to those who work hard. And while Angela had to work a little harder to prove that her midwestern roots didn't hold her back from big-city lifestyle and fashion, she has surpassed many others who rely on their past to propel them into success. 

After that realization settled, I became incredibly excited. I remember the night well- I hardly slept as thoughts jumbled all around my head. How can I embrace where I'm from and use it to my career advantage? Who should I be networking with right now to ensure that I can reach my own personal equivalent to Angela's success? 

And, how can I get into contact with Angela?
okay, maybe I'm dreaming a little bit...

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But dreaming is what I'm good at. I've accepted that I like to think big. I embrace lofty goals and let them energize me. I refuse to not take advantage of my opportunities here at Purdue or in the Midwest. And, most importantly, I will not feel as if I'm trapped- because I'm preparing to do great things in this life. Just like Angela, I can be a shining star from my hometown; a big fish in a little pond who goes on to do great things...

that's what I strive for







02 November 2013

Dare to be You


If you're looking for inspiration and a warm heart, take a few minutes to watch 
this short documentary (don't be fooled by documentary- it's 11 minutes long).

I had seen this video a couple of years ago when it went viral, but I recently watched it again and was just as moved. Caine throws himself into making this arcade and stays so positive each and every day. It's cute, yes, but it's also so inspiring. This kid loves arcades. So he makes his own in his free time. He uses the resources he has to make it the best he possibly can... and when nobody comes to the arcade, he uses the time as an opportunity to clean and improve his arcade. 

He never gets discouraged. He never gets down. 
He only works to improve.

It's so easy for me to get down on myself. When others are critical of my interests or when I don't get attention for something that I think I should. It's easy to get discouraged or quit. And when nobody pays attention to something that required so much work and time, the typical person would get frustrated, no matter how passionate or interested in that subject. Since I know I'm not the only one who goes through this, and that is exactly why I wanted to share Caine's story and his determination. There's so much that we can learn from this kid with the cardboard arcade.

It doesn't end there, though. I was moved by the kindness of the filmmaker. Instead of walking past, ignoring Caine and his makeshift arcade, he went and talked to him. He asked him about it, played the games, and fell in love with Caine's passion and excitement towards arcade games. And he decided to change Caine's life through his own personal abilities: filmmaking. 

and so it all comes full-circle...
the moment we dare to embrace our quirks and our interests that make us unique is the moment that we can change lives. We can change our own life, but we can also change the lives of others. And like Caine, the key to it all is staying determined, regardless of the way others make us feel. 

Be the best you. 

01 November 2013

Top 5: October 2013

this month has been crazy!

From October break to my birthday to sub-freezing temperatures, I can't remember an October quite like this. I feel like I've grown so much this month, both personally and academically. I've been able to look into how I'd really like my future to pan out and talk to advisors, family, and friends about how to make it work. I've consciously tried to get out of my comfort zone by being more vulnerable with my friends. At the same time, I've tried to make more time for myself and what I love, rather than feel guilty about the studying I should be doing.

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As always, I have a roundup of the top 5 products that I've been loving this month. From makeup to TV shows, here are my October 2013 Top 5:


Like I said, this month was crazy when it came to weather. In early October, it was in the 80s and now I'm lucky if it's 40 degrees when I walk into campus in the morning. Being the wise Midwesterner that I am, I failed to bring an actual coat to school with me. So I've been living in my J. Crew Excursion vest. I've also been loving my boots and booties and warm socks, which has been a stylish way to stay warm.
(there's nothing like cold toes to make for a miserable morning)

At the beginning of the month, I decided to try out the new Marc Jacobs lipstick... and let me tell you- it is awesome! The color that I got is a light pink, which gives my lips a slightly frosty-pink tint. What I like most is how moisturizing it is! Usually when I wear gloss or lipstick or anything of the sort, I have to put chapstick on underneath to keep from getting chapped, peeling lips. This stuff, though! I can put it straight on and feel moisturized. I'm definitely planning to get one of the more "berry" colors for the holidays and winter months.

Wow. I almost failed to mention that this month also held round two of exams: midterms. Episodes of Sex and the City were perfect 30-minute breaks between studying. I've also been trying to leave myself minimal homework for Sundays (instead of saving it all for Sunday), which has been perfect for reading, watching TV, and making sure I relax before the upcoming week. 

There you have it- the top 5 things that have defined this past month. I'm going home this weekend and plan to bring back a coat... and maybe my Uggs

I can't believe that it's already November!