Getting Inspired

I feel like I've really become obsessed with the idea of being inspired lately.

I have no idea why that is, but it's definitely helped me to enjoy school and get more done. I think using platforms like Tumblr and Instagram to see how other girls around my age find beauty in everyday items- flowers, glasses, and coffee- has inspired me to find my inner artist.

and, trust me, I am not very artistic. So I'd say it's been a good development in my life.

I've been loving pretty, spring pictures. The bright colors just make me happy... the beach pictures though, they've been making me pretty jealous. But, beyond that little annoyance (that I secretly love because I live vicariously through everyone I follow) it's been fun to take the images I've seen and see where beauty lies in and around my life.

From getting dressed in the morning to walking to class, I find myself constantly posing things. I lay them out, fold things to fit perfectly into the instagram frame. It's really getting crazy.. but it's oh so much fun. And it's not only my own pictures. Of course, I'm loving so many on the internet too.

I obviously really love food...

...and books

*not mine* but note to self when I do look nice for
class- document it!  

also *not mine* but... if only I had an interior
this beautiful to photograph

I've never been one to take pictures... or ask to get my picture taken. I've been one to do things for necessity rather than for prettiness. But, that, my friends, is changing. And like all the other changes in my personality lately, I am fully embracing it. 

Watch out, because "inspired Sarah" may be taking over. 

What to Watch Right Now

I never used to watch a lot of TV... mostly because I'm really impatient. I don't like commercials and I don't like waiting a whole week for the next installment to a show. Sure, I watch the Kardashians every Sunday and maybe Saturday Night Live or the Voice, but I'm not invested in the show. It's fun when I catch it, but it's not the end of the world if I miss an episode. 

I just know that I can't get into something and then have to wait a week in between each new episode. This is exactly why I love Netflix. I think it's the greatest thing on the planet. And ever since I got my iPad, I've been using that to watch Netflix in bed which is just the best way to get myself actually into bed at a "decent" time here at school (my mind isn't in the "sleep" mindset until I climb into my bed, and so it's possible for me to stay down at my dest until 1 am and be tired... but not really feel it until the next morning). I still like to read or flip through a magazine before bed, but being able to tell myself that I need to get in bed to watch an episode or two of Netflix is a good motivator to start winding down. 

Lately I've been trying to play catch-up on some series. I love Grey's Anatomy, but I'm just so far behind that I know I'll never catch up so I don't stress about watching it. I ran out of Gossip Girl and the Hills episodes and am through the Netflix episodes of the Carrie Diaries, so I had been searching for new shows to watch. If you're in my same position, I'm here to give you a few recommendations! 

Okay this show is precious. I's Grey's Anatomy-Meets- Sex and the City- Meets Gilmore Girls. Okay maybe not, but it's got the medical bits, the romance bits, and the southern charm. I'm seriously in love with George Tucker and hope to marry a man just like him some day. Lemon wears the most perfect southern belle dresses, and Zoe is the perfect grown-up Summer (from the O.C., of course! ). This show puts me in the best mood and keeps me dreaming of the South and warmer weather. And, if you get caught up... and can bear it... it's still on tv so you can follow along! 

I've only watched one episode of this, but it's very West Wing with a bit of the Office. Politics and drama go hand-in-hand, and the best thing is that it's a Netflix original, so every episode is released at the same time. Can you say marathon?! 

So, this isn't a show, but it's a great documentary. If you're looking for something to occupy a couple hours of your time, this is it! It doesn't matter if you agree with his political stance or not, Mitt Romney and the Romney Family give great insight into a political campaign and all the behind-the-scenes details. 

Happy Netflixing! 

The Shoes of Spring

I was recently ask what kind of shoe I'd be if I were to be a shoe

it took me no fewer than 15.2 seconds to answer that: a wedge. First off, they're awesome. They're comfortable and cool; casual or formal. They're versatile. You can have a 1 inch wedge or a 4 inch, and both will be great. Wedges are practical for long days or lots of standing, because they offer more support.

They come in varying colors and styles, which can be justified because you'll be wearing them a lot more often than normal heels (see above). And, I don't know about you, but when I think of the perfect Easter or Spring Wedding outfit, wedges always come to mind. They're the transition from winter to summer- in heel form.

via Jack Rogers
*insert heart-eyed emoji here*

via Tory Burch
*insert heart-eyed emoji here*

via TOMS

via Kate Spade

via Lilly Pulitzer

via J. Crew

So that is why I would want to be a wedge heel. I like to think I'm comfortable and laid-back, but can take it up a notch if need-be. When I come to care about someone, I'm in for the long haul and will offer support and advice when I can. After a long, cold winter, my attitude changes drastically and I am the happiest person in the spring. And, I just really love wedges so of course I'm going to pick a shoe I love to compare myself to.

What kind of Shoe Would You Be?

Quotes from a Queen

I just finished reading the ever popular Coco Chanel: an Intimate Life, which seemed like it took unnecessarily long for me to finish it.

That's not to say that it wasn't a good read or that it was boring or dry- it was just the opposite! It's a detailed biography of the woman who really changed the face of fashion. I wasn't always in the mindset for that kind of reading. In order to really enjoy the all the research Lisa Chaney had done, I didn't stress about getting it finished by a certain time or rush in any way. If another book looked good to pick up, I'd set this one aside for a little bit. But, I finally finished it and have come away with great insight that I will carry with me.

I could go on and on about how Mademoiselle Chanel changed the world, but you already know that. But there were some absolutely fantastic quotes from the great woman. Many of them are "classic" as far as quotes go, but I love them even more now that I feel like I know Gabrielle Chanel a little bit.

"...the eccentricity should be in the woman, not the dress."

"I prefer disaster to nothingness"

"Changes must not be brutal, must not be made all of a sudden. The eye must be given time to adapt itself to a new thought."

"...fashion, like landscape, is a state of mind..."

"A girl should be two things: who and what she wants"

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself- aloud."

Chanel isn't my most favorite designer brand now... in fact I'm not sure it makes my top 5. The style and image has just changed so much. But I will always love the classic Chanel and will probably be the woman who wears Chanel No 5. What can I say?

The woman is an inspiration

Lilly Spring 2014

#HoorayForSpring

Okay so it's a little early to be talking about spring, unfortunately. On the other hand, it's always sunny when there's Lilly and guess who released Spring 2014 this past week? Just when I needed relief from this Polar Vortex, the beautiful spring prints and dresses became available to look at online. 

York Fit & Flare

AshLynn Keyhole Maxi

Iona Shell

Skipper Printed Popover

Marlissa Strapless Maxi

 I love the colors this spring- pinks and purples and blues. So pretty and.. well, springy! I love the options that aren't shifts. Yes, call me crazy but I have enough shift dresses from Lilly and have been looking to change it up a little bit, and I'm so glad that the maxis are offered in such perfect prints! I also love the printed popover because you can never have too many 1/2 zips :-) 

I've never bought a shell from Lilly, but there are two prints in the Iona and they are gorgeous. I'm imagining them with white jeans or shorts this spring and summer, both looks I'd love to try out. Since I've never bought a shell before, any opinions on how they fit/ are they a good buy?

This week's release was just a "preview", as more looks will probably become available throughout the spring months. From the looks of it, Lilly would be so proud of the company she poured so much of herself into. I will most definitely be taking a trip to my closest Lilly store (which is 3 hours away...Ugh the Midwest) hopefully soon to see these marvelous prints in person.

p.s. I looked through the new arrivals and added everything I like to my shopping tote....... uh $650 later I think I'll be saving up for a while for those beauties

In Defense of the Photoshoppers

The crazy amount of photoshop that is used by magazines and designers has caught a lot of attention recently from different groups wanting to stop body hate for young women.

And, while I don't disagree with the fact that sometimes photoshop is used when it isn't needed, I think it's a little ridiculous to fight the ad companies on this one. Because, let's be honest- there's an image that sells and companies aren't going to stop doing what brings in revenue. Designers have a distinct look they're going for, and if a tattoo or pimple doesn't quite meet that look... *photoshop*. Also, let's take the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show into account (just because that's probably the most guilt-provoking events of the year) - those models are naturally built with long, lean bodies. They're toned and fabulous with or without touchups. Oppositely, beauty and perfection can be "taken away" digitally, too. A la Tom Ford or Marc Jacobs, the darker more edgy look isn't always met by the It Girl models... so they add the edge- darker, yellowed skin, tattoos, that sexy tired eye. There's only so much makeup can do to match any given idea or "look". That look is what agencies look for, so those naturally graced with the genetics that Sell book the modeling jobs. 

Because of these factors, I really don't see photoshopping as bad. Yes- I'm more likely to buy something if it looked good in the picture. If the clothing didn't sit right, didn't have the desired shape, or just didn't look right on the model then it definitely won't look right on me. I already know that I don't have a model's body, but I'll have higher hopes of clothing/makeup/etc looking right on me if it looks good on someone else. That's just the truth and I can't be the only one who thinks this because I've witnessed "outfit stealing" between girlfriends or peers. If we like the way it looks on someone else there's a better chance we'll try it on ourself. 

I've also read where models apparently "don't like being photoshopped". I totally understand this if it's a major job that would require plastic surgery, but defining abs or jaw lines and removing blemishes... who wouldn't want that? Even the most beautiful women have insecurities and there's no way they want them shown off to the world. If I were an underwear model, I'd want rockin' abs and awesome legs without starving myself or spending my days at the gym.

I may be the only girl who supports digital retouching, and so be it. Obviously, I think it's important to live a healthy lifestyle and to understand that the images we see in ads aren't realistic- so we shouldn't kill ourselves over some stretch marks or a few extra pounds. In fact, photoshopping allows for our oh-so "unhealthy" models to be healthier. Eat more and worry about fitting in a size 00 less, because photoshopping can perfect the image that's desired. Yeah, yeah maybe I'm missing the point and the who point of this movement is to have a more realistic outlook on our bodies. But hey, skinny sells and until that's changed we have to accept that technology is going to take the place of anorexia. And I don't see that as a bad thing....

Wish List Wednesday: Beautiful Books

I've been making a huge point to read more.

Instead of sitting on my phone in the (awkward) time between classes or looking through my Tumblr feed before bed, I've been making myself read. With my new iPad, it's been so easy to download a book and have it with my at all times- there's something about reading on my iPhone that I just didn't like. I still love the look and feel of actual books and make sure I have at a physical book to read at all times, too. So, yes, I am the girl who might be reading 2 or 3 books at a time... plus my assignments. 

One might think that I'd get sick of reading so much but that is so so wrong. In fact, I'm never not adding new books to my GoodReads "To- Read" list or my Amazon wishlist. Oyster makes it too easy to see and book and download it right then and there for free (or a pre-paid fee but still...). But, with everything moving to digital, I have this fear that I won't have a library in my future home. What if I don't have a room full or great books and coffee tables stacked with inspiring coffee-table books? I know I'm being a bit dramatic, but there's no doubt that we aren't approaching a paperless age.

I guess that means that my recent obsession with coffee-table books and pretty covers is just me planning ahead... right? Even though I don't have a coffee table and I've run out of room on my bookshelves at home, my wish list keeps growing. Here are some that I'm loving right now.

recent obsession with Chanel... 

Fitzgerald + Metallics... so much is right in this

THIS

new obsession with Grace too...

still haven't bought this one yet

I could go on and on and on. 

The way I justify this love of mine is that books open up worlds to me- they make me a better, more well rounded woman. Unlike watching TV or being on my phone, my parents love that I love to read. 

I love getting lost in a world and I can only pray that paper will make it long enough for me to build a house and have the greatest personal library

The September Issue

Yes, I am aware that this documentary is old but that doesn't make it any less good

The September Issue was filmed in preparation for the 2007 Vogue September Issue, the magazine's largest issue each year. It's referred to as the "Bible" of the fashion world and is put into planning six months before it actually goes to print. Each year, the issue grows- the largest being 2012's 900+ page magazine. Full of huge spreads and some of the best articles Vogue has ever put out, it's a big deal.

Knowing this, I figured it was about time that I sit down and see this film for myself. And it didn't disappoint. Anna Wintour, of whom "The Devil Wears Prada" was written, didn't disappoint- she was just as opinionated and determined as I had been expected. Her trademark hairstyle and sunglasses rule the fashion world, as was apparent in the documentary. But I came away from these two hours with great respect for another leading lady who doesn't quite get the recognition that she should:

Grace Coddington. She's the stylist and creative director of American Vogue. Yeah. She's a huge deal. She runs the biggest shoots for each issue and is one of the few stylist who still is willing to get on her hands and knees to physically style a model to her liking. She was a model until she was in an accident that ended that career. Luckily, she found her place at Vogue and graces the pages with her fantastic, creative eye.

She's also the only person brave enough to stand up to Anna. She isn't afraid to advocate for her ideas and views, even when she has Anna's harsh words on her mind. The documentary captured this pretty well, and made me respect Grace so much more. She's the kind of powerful, passionate woman that I hope to become- one who isn't afraid to stand up against perhaps one of the most powerful women in fashion and tell her that she is wrong. It's incredible, and I am forever a Grace Coddington fan now.

Plus: there's a Grace Memoir that is definitely on my reading list now

If you're into fashion, history, or Vogue, I highly recommend taking a couple hours to watch The September Issue. Even if it isn't your forte (which I'd hope it is at least a bit... since you're reading this blog), Vogue is such a well-known name around the world and the process of putting it together is fascinating! So much work, time, and heart is put into these historical September Issues each year and I'll definitely appreciate each that I get in the coming years. 

Winter Wardrobe

It's cold out. It's really cold and snowy and windy.

I didn't like this weather when I lived at home and drove everywhere, so I certainly am not a fan of it now that I have to walk miles in it on a daily basis. The winter makes it hard to figure out what to wear- I need to be warm enough to not freeze on my walk to class, but layer enough to not melt once I'm in class. Yes, it's a daily dilemma and the fact that Indiana temperatures have been between -30 and 50 in the past two weeks doesn't make figuring it all out any easier.

So, then what have I been wearing? Sweaters. Lots of sweaters. Sweaters over turtlenecks and oxford shirts. Vests and big sweatshirts. Under a bigger coat. I'm silently thanking my parents every day for my Bean Boots and they are absolutely perfect for this weather!

via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

via TooPrepToFunction

I wish I had the motivation to wear more than leggings or jeans and sweaters, but comfort and warmth is the only way I'm going to trek to class, so comfort and warmth it is. I'm constantly looking for new ideas on how to switch up this "uniform" of sorts, because I've unfortunately got a few months left of this weather...

all I want is to wear my Lillys and Jacks again! 

Decor, Decor

So, I've come across some very dangerous decor items/ ideas lately....

Not that I even have a house or apartment to decorate, but it's still so much fun to look and dream. For now, I pretty much incorporate every Tumblr and Pinterest decoration idea onto my itty bitty little desk here at school. It's a bit ridiculous, but it's my little space to make pretty. So what have I been seeing lately? 

Let's start with Folletts. Folletts is a bookstore here on campus that has pretty much everything. Books, yes. But they're the place to buy the really nice Nike gear, coffee mugs, the fun stuff. But, there's also a Lilly/ Vera Bradley area that is oh-so dangerous. This past week I've made my fair amount of trips to Folletts, and guess what I found? The Kate Spade office collection. And yes, my roommate, K, and I fell in love. We didn't buy anything since we were already dropping hundreds on textbooks (ugh don't get me started!), but we sure did look and squeal at the cuteness of it all! 

Okay I know that the collection has been out a while so this is old news, but seeing it in person is so much better than looking at pictures online! The binder clips and push pins make me want to completely re-vamp my organization method for this semester (but I won't because I'm not crazy), but that won't happen. The post-it's though... I use post-its like a madwoman so these actually may be justifiable. I'll save it for when I need something really cute to pick me up :-)

I talked about housing for next year, and just in time Lilly has restocked their Garnet Hill collection. Can you say perfect? I'm in love with my comforter right now, but it's almost impossible to turn these down! The First Impressions print is basically the embodiment of me, so I might have to splurge this summer and bring it back to school with me... because really, how cute is it?

As far as decoration inspiration goes, I'm loving all things pink, gold/ sparkly, and white or lucite right now. It's such a happy, fresh color scheme. Anywhere from bright to a blush pink is gorgeous paired with gold! If you follow my Pinterest boards, you've probably noticed this trend. If you don't, I am here to grace you with a few of my favorites:

are you a fan of the combo yet? ;-)

Self-Love. Self-Confidence.

Everyone struggles with self-confidence. Every. Single. Person.

We all have days that we wake up and feel unworthy. There are days when no amount of makeup or hair product will work, because that doesn't fix the fact that my pants feel tighter than yesterday. Sometimes people will say something, not meaning anything by it, that will negatively alter the way we think of ourself (or maybe that was their intention, and in that case.. they are evil). To put it simply- 

self-love can be hard.

In high school, I really struggled with this. Not as much as some people- no eating disorders or self harm was done- but it was still there. I felt intrusive to my friends, like they "tolerated" me rather than actually reciprocating the friendship. I tried too hard to be friends with people that didn't matter then and  (I know now) never will. But, the good thing is that I've taken that experience and made it beneficial to me so that I've been able to love myself, in turn loving those around me more than I ever have before. 

I haven't exactly been the most confident person in the past. Even at the beginning of last semester, I would joke that I was "lame" for loving to read and write. I hid this blog and my fashion magazines, because I thought "this is Purdue, and nobody likes this kind of stuff. They like engineering and important things". That thinking was so skewed. Throughout the semester, I met friends and professors that I could talk to. I made friends through my blogging and liking something in addition to the actual subject of study. And slowly, I've realized that the stuff that makes me "lame" is actually what makes me me.  This "lame" stuff is what makes me my own person and sets me apart from the masses of science and mathematically gifted students here. And if that isn't the most important thing in the world- understanding that I am an individual worthy of others' interest- I don't know what is. 

This realization has given me the confidence to be 100% genuine with everyone at school- and I think that's why I love Purdue so much! The best part of college is that I can show up and be whoever I want. Nobody cares who I was in high school. It's so beautiful. And, you know what? It makes me feel more beautiful. More days than not, I feel awesome when I walk out the door. I feel loved, appreciated, and beautiful! I'm growing to love who I am here at school, which has made me more confident and more loving. But, that doesn't mean that I don't have any work to do...

At home, I still feel like I'm in high school. I have moments of feeling like a burden or like I don't exactly fit in. At home, everyone has an expectation of who I am that I feel can't be changed. So, obviously I still struggle with embracing my quirks all the time and I still get embarrassed in thinking that people who have known me for so long will think that I'm weird or crazy. It's definitely something to work on for me, but I don't know if I'll ever be able to change people's perception of me. 

Regardless, life is a journey towards love. Mutual love-  of the self, for another, for a Higher Being. But, no matter what love you are seeking, effort is required. Humans are perfectly made to love and be loved, and when that happens the world s changed. 

So, change your world today. Wake up, make yourself feel awesome- whatever it takes- and then say into the mirror "I am awesome. I am loved. I am perfect the way I am." Fearlessly embrace you. Every day. And, even if not today or tomorrow, eventually you will begin to love the person you are becoming. 

"Reading" In The New Year

You may have a list of resolutions or new things to try this year...

Or, if you're like me, you've dedicated 2014 to a theme that will hopefully result in a better you. Regardless of how the New Year is celebrated for you, there's no doubt that it brings about an air of newness- of being refreshed. It's a 365-day chapter of your life that can end up being whatever you want it to be. 

For me, I'm trying to be more positive. I've come to notice that I become more positive and inspired through the stories of others. I enjoy hearing about the accomplishments of others and how life has carried them- it gives me hope that my immense goals may not be that unrealistic. How do I hear these stories? Mostly through books. Inspiring books. Self-Help books. Memoirs. Biographies. These books leave me feeling strong and inspired, while also giving me a way to relax without feeling like I am "wasting time"... Because, with a good book no time is wasted. 

No matter what your New Year resolution or theme may be, there is certainly an inspiring book for you to dive into. I've already mentioned The One Hundred by Nina Garcia, which is the perfect fun & informational read for the fashion conscious woman. But I've quickly moved on and have a few books that I will be using to "Read" In the New Year (get it?... instead of "ring"?).

1. Smart Marathon Training by Jeff Horowitz

Part of my 21 Before 21 list is to run a half marathon. It's been a goal of mine since I started running a few years ago, but I never knew how to prepare myself. Working in high school made it hard for me to balance school and extracurriculars, let alone take 8-, 10-, or 12-mile long runs. I recently discovered a Run Club at Purdue that I'm confident could help me train for a 13.1-miler, but as the nerd that I am, I like to read about it and let the tips of an expert sink in. Also, because there's currently a foot of snow outside and running isn't safe... so I'll stick to reading about running until I can hit the pavement again.

2. The End of Overeating by David Kessler

Overeating is so easy in the dining courts. I can get as many plates of really good food as I want for one meal swipe. I could sit with friends for hours, going back for "one more" cookie. And that, my friends, is how the Freshman 15  20 happens. I saw this book on Oyster and immediately downloaded it. It could be life-changing or I could end up laughing after the first chapter... but anything that might calm my intense sweet-tooth is worth trying out! 

3. Smile at Strangers by Susan Schorn

The second half of 2013 was life-changing for me. I stepped way out of my comfort zone and began to love the outgoing, sassy me that I'd always hid away. This book claims that it can teach the "art of living fearlessly"... which I'm not sure I believe can be taught. But it's sure to give some good ideas for being more spontaneous and embracing life outside of the comfort zone, which I'm sure we would all benefit from. 

So, these are a few of the books I'll be reading to inspire my Year of Positivity and help me reach the personal growth that I so want this coming year.

What better way to ring in the year than with huge plans and a pile of books to help accomplish those plans?

Holiday Spirit

There may not be snow on the ground, and the temperatures may feel more like March than December but Christmas is coming fast! If you're anything like me, you wait around for the holidays for a few months and are always astonished at how fast the holidays end up flying by. With all of the internet access that we have, now it's like our holidays can all merge together. I "pin" and "reblog" the pictures and videos of other peoples' holidays, who may live down the street or around the world. It's amazing when I sit back and think about it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I've pulled together a few of my favorite holiday and Christmas bits that I've found around the 'net to share with you here! 

What are you using as inspiration this holiday season? 

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. 

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. 

Being Inspired

"the success of one person can very well inspire success in another"

I've found this to be so true in my life. 

The successes of my friends and family members definitely inspire me to try out new hobbies. I was friends with more than half of the cross country team in high school, so I took up running in my free time. My sister danced, so I took up dance classes. My parents are successful in every aspect of their lives, and they inspire me every day, every second. Even though I've been inspired to try new activities before, nothing has really stuck like blogging has. 

A year ago, I came across CollegePrepster, or Carly. For a couple of months I just read her blog every day. I loved the way that she helped me feel empowered. I loved hearing about her life, her college tips, and just everything! One day, I was just feeling inspired, so I started my own blog. Writing was always something that I loved, but it was something I did in private. It was an art that I kept to myself, like most of the things that I enjoy in life. Never once had I thought about sharing my writing with others, because I never thought anyone would care.  But, on that day of inspiration, I bit the bullet and pressed "Publish" on my first blog post. 

.....................................................................

Enough of my sob-story though, that's not what I want to convey today. 

I want to help to inspire others, like Carly, and so many other women have done for me. Whether it's on Twitter, Instagram, their Blogs, or Pinterest, I am inspired every day by the thoughts and images sent my way via these girls. If you're looking for another blog to follow, or just some beautiful Instagram pictures, I highly suggest that you hop over to some of my daily favorites:

via College Prepster

College Prepster

Design Darling

Wishing on Winnapaug

Classy Girls Wear Pearls

What absolutely isn't fair, in any world, is that these women have all become great friends! They're like the Power-Quad of the preppy blog world. Each has their own flair and their own quirks. But, they all have a way of inspiring me (and their multitude of subscribers) to be the best they can be. At a range of ages and career positions, these girls are relatable for almost anyone. I credit to them my ability to confidently uncover one of my most private hobbies- writing. And through their sense of style and daily posts, I've been able to develop myself into a more confident young woman than I would have ever envisioned for myself. 

go check out their blogs and other forms of social networking

I'm positive that you'll get something great from it- 

each & every day.

p.s. they frequently all communicate on Twitter... and I die every time 

Inspiring Women: Sarah Vickers

Sarah Vickers. SarahKJP. However you know her, I know you love her.

I'm always looking for outfit inspiration on Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, the usual. The person I keep coming back to, though, is Sarah. She's so effortlessly preppy and stylish. She's the type of girl who was probably really poplar in school because she just gives off that "cool girl" vibe. Yet I feel as if she's relatable and down-to-earth... although I've never met her....

Regardless, she supplies me with inspiration on an almost daily basis. Here are a few of my favorites:

Is she not the cutest?