tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7727916206980569112024-03-13T05:32:50.528-05:00The Bright Side According to LauraUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-10432995984338905992014-03-04T11:32:00.000-06:002014-03-04T11:37:46.712-06:00Hello, March!Happy Mardi Gras, everyone!<br />
<br />
I am having some serious Mardi Gras woes. I think I should be sipping on a Bloody Mary right now instead of discussing nonprofits in class (as evidenced by my tweet below). Know what I mean?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzQy0R3qmH8/UxX_64HL2uI/AAAAAAAACUY/rVUxRS2AfLQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-04+at+10.31.14+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzQy0R3qmH8/UxX_64HL2uI/AAAAAAAACUY/rVUxRS2AfLQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-04+at+10.31.14+AM.png" height="86" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><br />I am SO glad to say goodbye to February, it was an all-around struggle of a month for me. I realize things could always be worse, but it was definitely a month of personal growth in more ways than one. So I say goodbye to February and goodbye to the things that you can <i>only</i> learn with time.<br />
<br />
My heart is so full with a desire to be back in the south. I miss Louisiana, especially today. The people, the culture, the doing of all things a little bit slower...because good times sure do go by way too fast. <br />
<br />
I'll be home in the sunny RGV in the next few days, and my goal is to feed my soul and heal my heart. I want to feel more like myself and that involves a lot of family and a lot of sun. It will all begin tomorrow night with a concert to Amos Lee. Here is one of my favorites from his new album, Mountains of Sorrow Rivers of Song "Chill in the Air"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Azy-Je4Uhck?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Current thoughts:</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>A haircut is coming up, I will be going short, <span style="font-size: x-small;">short,</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">short. </span>In late April/early May. I need to wait for the weather to warm up around here before getting rid of these locks keeping me warm.</li>
<li>The second largest Mardi Gras (technically Samedi Gras) in STL is only maybe a quarter the size of real Mardi Gras</li>
<li>I'm on the search for Strawberry Abita, if you stock up, please send some my way!</li>
<li>Is it possible to find a good crawfish boil around here?</li>
<li>While I miss Louisiana, I am torn at something calling me back home to Texas, to work with the population I know best</li>
<li>I hope that "12 Years a Slave" winning Picture of the Year draws more people to read Solomon Northup's story</li>
</ul>
<div>
I leave you all with a poem that I will not translate, by one of my favorite's, Jorge Luis Borges. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">"Después de un tiempo uno aprende la sutil diferencia entre sostener una mano y encadenar el alma.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;" /><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Y uno aprende que el amor no significa acostarse y una compañía no significa seguridad y uno empieza a aprender...</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Que los besos no son contratos y los regalos no son promesas, y uno empieza a aceptar sus derrotas con la cabeza alta y los ojos abiertos.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Y uno aprende a construir todos sus caminos en el hoy, porque el terreno de mañana es demasiado inseguro para planes... y los futuros tienen una forma de caerse en la mitad.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Y después de un tiempo uno aprende que si es demasiado, hasta el calor del sol quema.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Así que uno planta su propio jardín y decora su propia alma, en lugar de esperar a que alguien le traiga flores.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Y uno aprende que realmente puede aguantar, que uno realmente es fuerte, que uno realmente vale, y uno aprende y aprende... y con cada día uno aprende.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo aprendes que estar con alguien porque te ofrece un buen futuro significa que tarde o temprano querrás volver a tu pasado.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo comprendes que sólo quien es capaz de quererte con tus defectos, sin pretender cambiarte, puede brindarte toda la felicidad que deseas.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo te das cuenta de que si estás al lado de esa persona sólo por acompañar tu soledad, irremediablemente acabarás deseando no volver a verla.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo entiendes que los verdaderos amigos son contados, y que el que no lucha por ellos tarde o temprano se verá rodeado sólo de amistades falsas.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo aprendes que las palabras dichas en un momento de ira pueden seguir lastimando a quien heriste, durante toda la vida.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo aprendes que disculpar cualquiera lo hace, pero perdonar es sólo de almas grandes.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo comprendes que si has herido a un amigo duramente, muy probablemente la amistad jamás volverá a ser igual.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo te das cuenta que aunque seas feliz con tus amigos, algún día llorarás por aquellos que dejaste ir.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo te das cuenta de que cada experiencia vivida con cada persona es irrepetible.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo te das cuenta de que el que humilla o desprecia a un ser humano, tarde o temprano sufrirá las mismas humillaciones o desprecios, multiplicados al cuadrado.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo comprendes que apresurar las cosas o forzarlas a que pasen ocasionará que al final no sean como esperabas.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo te das cuenta de que en realidad lo mejor no era el futuro, sino el momento que estabas viviendo justo en ese instante.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Con el tiempo aprenderás que intentar perdonar o pedir perdón, decir que amas, decir que extrañas, decir que necesitas, decir que quieres ser amigo, ante una tumba, ya no tiene ningún sentido, ya es tarde, nunca dejes que algo te sea demasiado tarde.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Pero desafortunadamente, LO APRENDERÁS sólo con el tiempo..." </i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* Note: I believe there's a translation available by </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;">Veronica A. Shoffstall *</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-23614285883514007292014-02-15T17:05:00.001-06:002014-02-15T17:05:30.092-06:00Love is Not Made UpI've felt so overwhelmed with love the past couple of days. Valentine's Day is not Single Awareness Day as many call it, for me it's always a chance to reflect on how much love exists in this world. I am beginning to sound like a cheesy greeting card. Keep reading... <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b8VHIGRYzSk/Uv_wLYLQXPI/AAAAAAAACT0/5_-rKmYDYWI/s1600/1239868_10152244802028281_1081601758_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b8VHIGRYzSk/Uv_wLYLQXPI/AAAAAAAACT0/5_-rKmYDYWI/s1600/1239868_10152244802028281_1081601758_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#EqualChance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yesterday did not exactly start off great, it was supposed to be a fairly nice day (weather-wise). Lesson learned: do NOT trust St. Louis weather. One of my roommates and I were supposed to go to a professional development workshop in the morning. We walked to school and realized there was a small chance of snow. Snow it did not. It began raining (freezing cold rain), but on the bright side it was only sprinkling. By the time we got out of our professional development a mere three hours later, the city had iced over. A combination of sleet, rain, and ice was just bad news. I proceeded to walk across campus to catch the train to my internship. Normally this would take 10-12 minutes, but it took twice as long because of the flats that I was wearing. I know what you're thinking if you're reading this but I left my boots at my internship and rather than carrying around three pairs of shoes by the end of the day I wore the flats. BAD IDEA. I almost slipped at least three times, missed my train, and proceeded to actually fall while holding onto a rail when I got off the train. Happy Valentine's Day to me.<br />
<br />
Despite all of this I still loved seeing the expressions of love around me. Those who stopped to ask if I was okay. The men on the train holding beautiful flowers soon to be delivered to their prospective partners. The beautiful posts of everyone who felt loved yesterday. Regardless of whether you believe Valentine's Day is a made up holiday or not. Love is not made up. This holiday is a reminder of that.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you Valentine's Day for instilling hope. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then, I came across a beautiful and brave testimony by Ellen Page. Last night she bravely came out at the Time to Thrive conference sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign. So inspirational and just beautiful. I am constantly reminded that this is <b><u>the</u></b> civil rights issue of our time. Watch it below</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/1hlCEIUATzg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"<span style="line-height: 30.399999618530273px;">But what I have learned is that love—the beauty of it, the joy of it, and yes, even the pain of it—is the most incredible gift to give and to receive as a human being" - Ellen Page</span></i></span><br />
<br />
Now go forth and give that gift every chance you get. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-59536619050466301072014-01-31T12:09:00.001-06:002014-01-31T12:11:05.527-06:00Goodbye, JanuaryOh man, January has just flown by for me. I'm ready for a new month. February just breezes on by because it's so short. I am certainly craving some warmer temperatures, although I wouldn't be surprised if we got some snowfall in February or even early March around here. <br />
<br />
At least I have home to look forward to with warm and sunny temperatures in early March. <br />
<br />
Here is what my January has consisted of:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ndFmgAd3v8/UuvgjaPpsXI/AAAAAAAACSE/vmOgFewv22o/s1600/Photo+Jan+24,+2+37+48+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ndFmgAd3v8/UuvgjaPpsXI/AAAAAAAACSE/vmOgFewv22o/s1600/Photo+Jan+24,+2+37+48+PM.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCbG_fNsIdE/Uuvf-eQc_GI/AAAAAAAACRU/VUW0DQzxpkk/s1600/Photo+Jan+17,+10+49+33+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCbG_fNsIdE/Uuvf-eQc_GI/AAAAAAAACRU/VUW0DQzxpkk/s1600/Photo+Jan+17,+10+49+33+AM.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My new internship at the St. Louis Mayor's Office in the Education sector (!). Isn't City Hall absolutely stunning?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g95UrLRv-Ho/UuvgEE04bdI/AAAAAAAACRc/liLT1tCxoN0/s1600/Photo+Jan+18,+4+39+19+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g95UrLRv-Ho/UuvgEE04bdI/AAAAAAAACRc/liLT1tCxoN0/s1600/Photo+Jan+18,+4+39+19+PM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Welcoming this cutie to St. Louis! Thanks for visiting, <a href="http://lisaveephoto.com/">Lisa.</a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb9MQMbSfRk/Uuvf0wmK8pI/AAAAAAAACRE/mOHzJLeyTdg/s1600/Photo+Jan+19,+4+12+12+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb9MQMbSfRk/Uuvf0wmK8pI/AAAAAAAACRE/mOHzJLeyTdg/s1600/Photo+Jan+19,+4+12+12+PM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally making it to the top of the Gateway Arch in STL. It was beautiful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IcjemPPBYq4/UuvgRaYfLoI/AAAAAAAACRk/r448FqNudpk/s1600/Photo+Jan+20,+3+16+20+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IcjemPPBYq4/UuvgRaYfLoI/AAAAAAAACRk/r448FqNudpk/s1600/Photo+Jan+20,+3+16+20+PM.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feeling like a kid and loving it at <a href="http://www.citymuseum.org/">City Museum</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OuJw888UyJo/UuvgTFovOMI/AAAAAAAACRs/n1UcdWLvMvQ/s1600/Photo+Jan+20,+3+38+11+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OuJw888UyJo/UuvgTFovOMI/AAAAAAAACRs/n1UcdWLvMvQ/s1600/Photo+Jan+20,+3+38+11+PM.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Folz4gjhaE/UuvgZZj9M_I/AAAAAAAACR8/8nmE_Wn7dK4/s1600/Photo+Jan+25,+7+51+33+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Folz4gjhaE/UuvgZZj9M_I/AAAAAAAACR8/8nmE_Wn7dK4/s1600/Photo+Jan+25,+7+51+33+AM.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feeling thankful for views like this</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4U14pIhACNA/UuvjHLak28I/AAAAAAAACSo/RJKGpDGw2jA/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+6+46+44+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4U14pIhACNA/UuvjHLak28I/AAAAAAAACSo/RJKGpDGw2jA/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+6+46+44+AM.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...and this</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jEzmHqv3cm4/UuvjCUpSH3I/AAAAAAAACSg/FPtDnnpklrs/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+2+48+36+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jEzmHqv3cm4/UuvjCUpSH3I/AAAAAAAACSg/FPtDnnpklrs/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+2+48+36+PM.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Visiting the Missouri State Capitol </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUTU9g0MMJg/UuvgkklTpSI/AAAAAAAACSM/x-I7-3CIimc/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+9+35+33+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUTU9g0MMJg/UuvgkklTpSI/AAAAAAAACSM/x-I7-3CIimc/s1600/Photo+Jan+29,+9+35+33+AM.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Final thoughts:<br />
<ul>
<li>If you know anyone in Texas connected to an education advocacy and/or policy organization please shoot me an e-mail or drop me a comment. I am interested in connecting! </li>
<li>I think some of these <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2014/01/2014-mais-fais-le-doucement.html">2014 goals</a> have been going well, especially the having more fun portion :)</li>
<li>Also, the networking goal...already met my goal for networking in January, go me!</li>
<li>If you have any good song or album recommendations please comment.</li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-40103670002485377222014-01-14T14:59:00.001-06:002014-01-14T14:59:12.049-06:00Thoughts from a TuesdayIt has been a gorgeous couple of days in STL lately. The weather is in the mid 40s to low 50s and sunny, today has been pretty windy though. After the snowpocalypse of last week and subzero temperatures, this is quite an improvement. I am soaking it up as much as possible because I know it will soon be gone before it snows again. I spent a couple of hours outside a coffee shop doing some work and enjoying the sun in my face. For those of you reading from the south, I know you probably think I'm crazy and the midwest is already screwing up my perception of nice weather. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thoughts from this Tuesday: </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>My <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/p/book-club.html">Book Club</a> page has been updated with the last two recent books I read, check it out.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> (TFIOS) by John Green is a young adult (YA) book I read over my winter break. YA books are my favorite genre because of how real they are with emotion. There is a certain transparency and innocence that comes with the feeling and emotion expressed in YA novels, one much forgotten about in the adult world. I like to remember that it is okay to be vulnerable and reading YA novels helps me do that. TFIOS is beautifully written, I could not put it down and read it in about two days. It was funny, real, and heartbreaking, all of which are quintessentially very YA. I learned that this book is in the process of being made into a movie, in theaters everywhere summer of 2014. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I recently saw a great TEDx talk that I'd love to share with everyone. This fellow sister is from my home state (Texas) and went to a university just a bit further south than my alma mater. She has a very important message that I hope hits close to home for many, "What defines you?" <iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/c62Aqdlzvqk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></li>
<li>This song has been on my mind a lot lately<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/u1GPuOVLk44?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></li>
</ul>
<div>
Happy Tuesday! </div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-89022015645813339902014-01-13T17:07:00.003-06:002014-01-13T17:12:44.030-06:00Favorite Moments of 2013I love reminiscing on good times, and 2013 was full of them. Let's recap, shall we?<br />
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">January</i><br />
Listening to "Anything Could Happen" at the Red River Grill w/Matthew, Tickle, Dan, and Kathryn and having lots of Lemon Drop Martinis.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ri4wZf_JFN8/UtRb3ZThqQI/AAAAAAAACJ0/6VuBka0Gx_c/s1600/IMG_3319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ri4wZf_JFN8/UtRb3ZThqQI/AAAAAAAACJ0/6VuBka0Gx_c/s320/IMG_3319.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YTDdYgJ4xuM/UtRcPaAswII/AAAAAAAACJ8/MVek7ZPhiWo/s1600/IMG_3343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YTDdYgJ4xuM/UtRcPaAswII/AAAAAAAACJ8/MVek7ZPhiWo/s320/IMG_3343.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>February</i></b><br />
It would have to be a tie between New Orleans (Carousel Bar!) w/my cousin, Anjali, and Jasmyn during Mardi Gras season and New York City with Anjali and Jasmyn. Listening to "Dancing on my Own" at an old strip club bar/club. Paying too much money to see Mumford and Sons ( but worth it!). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1yL_R39AIE/UtRiQ8leoPI/AAAAAAAACKM/9JMYPYhdOew/s1600/IMG_3511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1yL_R39AIE/UtRiQ8leoPI/AAAAAAAACKM/9JMYPYhdOew/s320/IMG_3511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wO-F_Rz67ws/UtRiXsfKyUI/AAAAAAAACKU/C4TnBpqT3p4/s1600/IMG_3518.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wO-F_Rz67ws/UtRiXsfKyUI/AAAAAAAACKU/C4TnBpqT3p4/s320/IMG_3518.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGM21YaBFus/UtRmcWlPBfI/AAAAAAAACKw/enpaogY-lWs/s1600/IMG_3640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGM21YaBFus/UtRmcWlPBfI/AAAAAAAACKw/enpaogY-lWs/s400/IMG_3640.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RH0HB628IMw/UtRmP8sgo4I/AAAAAAAACKg/hjTqfPXTaLg/s1600/IMG_3687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RH0HB628IMw/UtRmP8sgo4I/AAAAAAAACKg/hjTqfPXTaLg/s400/IMG_3687.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6V2hObhDP_0/UtRmYXaXktI/AAAAAAAACKo/dgK75r8mcks/s1600/IMG_3841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6V2hObhDP_0/UtRmYXaXktI/AAAAAAAACKo/dgK75r8mcks/s400/IMG_3841.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>March</i></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
St. Patrick's Day at Bailey's singing Karaoke w/Kathryn and winning the contest thanks to our fabulous rendition of Tina Turner's "Proud Mary" (w/dance moves). Oh, and taking students on a field trip to University of Louisiana in Lafayette. The beach and Austin, Texas w/Leigh Anne.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3MiwVsWMk0g/UtRmlYpPs1I/AAAAAAAACK4/Ne2GkyqhI7s/s1600/IMG_4050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3MiwVsWMk0g/UtRmlYpPs1I/AAAAAAAACK4/Ne2GkyqhI7s/s400/IMG_4050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAI8RdxVkmU/UtRmsSx7ELI/AAAAAAAACLE/V5vSyT7IL2Q/s1600/IMG_4058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAI8RdxVkmU/UtRmsSx7ELI/AAAAAAAACLE/V5vSyT7IL2Q/s400/IMG_4058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClbLzc6rVfI/UtRmsLKduFI/AAAAAAAACLA/0D4YC6Y3sVQ/s1600/IMG_4059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClbLzc6rVfI/UtRmsLKduFI/AAAAAAAACLA/0D4YC6Y3sVQ/s400/IMG_4059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDFABhMaNH8/UtRm2fZMSLI/AAAAAAAACLQ/gIJ6pTy0TZw/s1600/IMG_4374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDFABhMaNH8/UtRm2fZMSLI/AAAAAAAACLQ/gIJ6pTy0TZw/s400/IMG_4374.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>April</i></b><br />
Winning a bunny at the farm festival with my sweeties. Tequila tasting at Bailey's and taking a day off with Kathryn to go to The Bull Dog in New Orleans for pint night (best decision ever!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBlon12VLog/UtRnlePwAwI/AAAAAAAACLc/NAtRQOsET44/s1600/IMG_4582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBlon12VLog/UtRnlePwAwI/AAAAAAAACLc/NAtRQOsET44/s400/IMG_4582.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mZKMBlrGs-k/UtRn3JsHndI/AAAAAAAACLk/F4WartAxhKI/s1600/IMG_4791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mZKMBlrGs-k/UtRn3JsHndI/AAAAAAAACLk/F4WartAxhKI/s400/IMG_4791.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EHcpEXSuOw/UtRn762xzAI/AAAAAAAACLs/mSXawo3cxXU/s1600/IMG_4748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EHcpEXSuOw/UtRn762xzAI/AAAAAAAACLs/mSXawo3cxXU/s400/IMG_4748.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GoiGv1Cvyb8/UtRoPs4e7oI/AAAAAAAACL0/Csj6CKFXaLo/s1600/IMG_4786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GoiGv1Cvyb8/UtRoPs4e7oI/AAAAAAAACL0/Csj6CKFXaLo/s400/IMG_4786.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>May</i></b><br />
Jazz Fest!! Cochon de Lait w/my family and friends. The best Bon Voyage parties! The most amazing view you'll ever see in Louisiana. Falling in love. Saying goodbye to beautiful and amazing friends I made while I lived in Louisiana for two years.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhCtenKkc9Y/UtRoj3hFKVI/AAAAAAAACL8/Ud8sIOhr-Yk/s1600/IMG_0088_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhCtenKkc9Y/UtRoj3hFKVI/AAAAAAAACL8/Ud8sIOhr-Yk/s400/IMG_0088_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_0fvvPnwS4/UtRouKoWTgI/AAAAAAAACME/Fyft1WvkUJ0/s1600/IMG_4927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_0fvvPnwS4/UtRouKoWTgI/AAAAAAAACME/Fyft1WvkUJ0/s400/IMG_4927.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flp6efhMhVk/UtRo0v7b-RI/AAAAAAAACMM/1rcDHkJW3yQ/s1600/IMG_4962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flp6efhMhVk/UtRo0v7b-RI/AAAAAAAACMM/1rcDHkJW3yQ/s400/IMG_4962.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKKhgWhrPP0/UtRo6qkDr_I/AAAAAAAACMU/3_imnsr0s-k/s1600/IMG_0062_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKKhgWhrPP0/UtRo6qkDr_I/AAAAAAAACMU/3_imnsr0s-k/s400/IMG_0062_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyUZshxSuk/UtRo-ZV-e9I/AAAAAAAACMc/XPUHrkD66cM/s1600/IMG_5119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyUZshxSuk/UtRo-ZV-e9I/AAAAAAAACMc/XPUHrkD66cM/s400/IMG_5119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>June</i></b><br />
Moving back to Texas.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5nAv1oiSDI/UtRpQHzwPtI/AAAAAAAACMk/-VUjvHouRhc/s1600/IMG_5279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5nAv1oiSDI/UtRpQHzwPtI/AAAAAAAACMk/-VUjvHouRhc/s400/IMG_5279.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b>July</b></i><br />
California with Anjali and Liz. My first Indian wedding experience. Spending time with my cousin on the beautiful island of Cozumel drinking piña coladas and soaking up the sun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BDVY48azaz0/UtRrJMRiGmI/AAAAAAAACNA/rCKfh6PaXTc/s1600/IMG_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BDVY48azaz0/UtRrJMRiGmI/AAAAAAAACNA/rCKfh6PaXTc/s400/IMG_0057.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhXGFMN6c4E/UtRrQ3O0OOI/AAAAAAAACNI/gOYVEKwSxbk/s1600/IMG_0098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhXGFMN6c4E/UtRrQ3O0OOI/AAAAAAAACNI/gOYVEKwSxbk/s400/IMG_0098.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EXkdHr8NySs/UtRq3wG6nQI/AAAAAAAACMw/kIIi25Vly0I/s1600/IMG_6199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EXkdHr8NySs/UtRq3wG6nQI/AAAAAAAACMw/kIIi25Vly0I/s400/IMG_6199.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>August</i></b><br />
Moving to Saint Louis, starting a new job, starting graduate school, gaining new friends and wonderful new roommates.<br />
<br />
<b><i>September</i></b><br />
Going to Lou Fest with Janie and seeing Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Alabama Shakes, The Killers, and Icona Pop. An amazing Labor Day weekend with someone who made me very happy. My first STL Cardinals baseball game.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTyqm03OJ2I/UtRuJR3JHxI/AAAAAAAACP4/w1KbucHxRrM/s1600/Photo+Sep+08,+2+24+40+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTyqm03OJ2I/UtRuJR3JHxI/AAAAAAAACP4/w1KbucHxRrM/s400/Photo+Sep+08,+2+24+40+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf3hYuRlhW0/UtRuHPIdnGI/AAAAAAAACPo/k3iOavWzluw/s1600/Photo+Sep+08,+12+52+48+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf3hYuRlhW0/UtRuHPIdnGI/AAAAAAAACPo/k3iOavWzluw/s400/Photo+Sep+08,+12+52+48+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjADvIIdw-o/UtRuG-5Ko1I/AAAAAAAACPY/II0UZnNLH2Q/s1600/Photo+Sep+08,+2+15+00+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjADvIIdw-o/UtRuG-5Ko1I/AAAAAAAACPY/II0UZnNLH2Q/s400/Photo+Sep+08,+2+15+00+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m5Otk1dGLoo/UtRuKHGz9PI/AAAAAAAACQE/P-slU2bOCAk/s1600/Photo+Sep+27,+9+39+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m5Otk1dGLoo/UtRuKHGz9PI/AAAAAAAACQE/P-slU2bOCAk/s400/Photo+Sep+27,+9+39+33+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q9nk1jMCoc/UtRuKJ6GfVI/AAAAAAAACP8/fEkYY3yO0lM/s1600/Photo+Sep+27,+8+31+28+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q9nk1jMCoc/UtRuKJ6GfVI/AAAAAAAACP8/fEkYY3yO0lM/s400/Photo+Sep+27,+8+31+28+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzQM_esopm0/UtRuKGjwEHI/AAAAAAAACQU/0lavuDQXw10/s1600/Photo+Sep+27,+7+05+13+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzQM_esopm0/UtRuKGjwEHI/AAAAAAAACQU/0lavuDQXw10/s400/Photo+Sep+27,+7+05+13+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>October</i></b><br />
Fall in St. Louis! Apple and pumpkin picking in Illinois. One of the most beautiful sunsets I've ever experienced. Seeing the Lumineers with Jess and Alex! Reuniting with my favorite people in Louisiana and the most epic Halloween costume ever!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn-5iEPfd3o/UtRuJWT3NcI/AAAAAAAACP0/N5g5EC_33Rk/s1600/Photo+Sep+20,+7+10+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn-5iEPfd3o/UtRuJWT3NcI/AAAAAAAACP0/N5g5EC_33Rk/s400/Photo+Sep+20,+7+10+33+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FgEE5gvbxR4/UtRuG_0W18I/AAAAAAAACPc/JHhHZhmZiYI/s1600/Photo+Oct+26,+10+59+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FgEE5gvbxR4/UtRuG_0W18I/AAAAAAAACPc/JHhHZhmZiYI/s400/Photo+Oct+26,+10+59+33+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOlkAnAZXBA/UtRuFn3PmpI/AAAAAAAACPA/MCkBqkpfmSY/s1600/Photo+Oct+25,+6+38+11+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOlkAnAZXBA/UtRuFn3PmpI/AAAAAAAACPA/MCkBqkpfmSY/s400/Photo+Oct+25,+6+38+11+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEmjq5ZbQXk/UtRuE4_on8I/AAAAAAAACPM/X_QYS4dA-RU/s1600/Photo+Oct+24,+8+33+19+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEmjq5ZbQXk/UtRuE4_on8I/AAAAAAAACPM/X_QYS4dA-RU/s400/Photo+Oct+24,+8+33+19+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBI2Q7XYDYc/UtRuFcqX97I/AAAAAAAACO8/RnHLmlH7TgA/s1600/Photo+Oct+25,+6+38+11+PM+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBI2Q7XYDYc/UtRuFcqX97I/AAAAAAAACO8/RnHLmlH7TgA/s400/Photo+Oct+25,+6+38+11+PM+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BbUMjAF2lFQ/UtRuEhPJBqI/AAAAAAAACO0/yL6GvyYep3g/s1600/Photo+Oct+11,+6+07+56+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BbUMjAF2lFQ/UtRuEhPJBqI/AAAAAAAACO0/yL6GvyYep3g/s400/Photo+Oct+11,+6+07+56+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmUkxZcGFIA/UtRuB_d5I7I/AAAAAAAACOg/8Ho4qnmsuMM/s1600/Photo+Oct+11,+4+47+14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmUkxZcGFIA/UtRuB_d5I7I/AAAAAAAACOg/8Ho4qnmsuMM/s400/Photo+Oct+11,+4+47+14+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DoxcNLSdT3I/UtRuDTvltKI/AAAAAAAACOs/VpwF7VXbybE/s1600/Photo+Oct+11,+5+30+54+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DoxcNLSdT3I/UtRuDTvltKI/AAAAAAAACOs/VpwF7VXbybE/s400/Photo+Oct+11,+5+30+54+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>November</i></b><br />
Hearing Laverne Cox speak. The most beautiful fall leaves I ever did see. My first Diwali experience.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlv_36l5wzw/UtRt-vOTwnI/AAAAAAAACOQ/3oFYjsii-dY/s1600/Photo+Nov+11,+1+02+08+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlv_36l5wzw/UtRt-vOTwnI/AAAAAAAACOQ/3oFYjsii-dY/s400/Photo+Nov+11,+1+02+08+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ViMysjy94s/UtRuBuU2V_I/AAAAAAAACOc/QY3TK-EDi4I/s1600/Photo+Nov+20,+8+50+14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ViMysjy94s/UtRuBuU2V_I/AAAAAAAACOc/QY3TK-EDi4I/s400/Photo+Nov+20,+8+50+14+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<b><i>December</i></b><br />
Lots of healing. TEDx STL Women's event with Jess. Meeting Ellie Kemper. My first snowfall in St. Louis. Following my heart and choosing to take big risks...with a little help from my friends :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YHe8ImhqKk/UtRt5i8rrbI/AAAAAAAACNY/1XiR6KlIW4c/s1600/Photo+Dec+05,+5+19+53+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YHe8ImhqKk/UtRt5i8rrbI/AAAAAAAACNY/1XiR6KlIW4c/s400/Photo+Dec+05,+5+19+53+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLluMrFdy20/UtRt6KYcG5I/AAAAAAAACNk/3LRKQCDWUZI/s1600/Photo+Dec+05,+9+10+38+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLluMrFdy20/UtRt6KYcG5I/AAAAAAAACNk/3LRKQCDWUZI/s400/Photo+Dec+05,+9+10+38+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NHV_dfYFs1c/UtRt5R4mtZI/AAAAAAAACNU/f7F3fOHWe-4/s1600/Photo+Dec+06,+3+29+02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NHV_dfYFs1c/UtRt5R4mtZI/AAAAAAAACNU/f7F3fOHWe-4/s400/Photo+Dec+06,+3+29+02+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oT-FH00eRNM/UtRt6NFuIUI/AAAAAAAACNg/MuK6TgW4rE0/s1600/Photo+Dec+14,+12+02+40+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oT-FH00eRNM/UtRt6NFuIUI/AAAAAAAACNg/MuK6TgW4rE0/s400/Photo+Dec+14,+12+02+40+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qMaKz9FGuA/UtRt7wdV5WI/AAAAAAAACN0/ploSatSe-g8/s1600/Photo+Dec+26,+10+21+37+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qMaKz9FGuA/UtRt7wdV5WI/AAAAAAAACN0/ploSatSe-g8/s400/Photo+Dec+26,+10+21+37+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pSeOanCt6mI/UtRt9gqK4OI/AAAAAAAACOM/JRwhlGyE9Sw/s1600/Photo+Dec+26,+10+21+59+PM+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pSeOanCt6mI/UtRt9gqK4OI/AAAAAAAACOM/JRwhlGyE9Sw/s400/Photo+Dec+26,+10+21+59+PM+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-NWVUxS9-A/UtRt8uVtVWI/AAAAAAAACN8/T1aQVsPVqxE/s1600/Photo+Jan+02,+11+19+32+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-NWVUxS9-A/UtRt8uVtVWI/AAAAAAAACN8/T1aQVsPVqxE/s400/Photo+Jan+02,+11+19+32+PM.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-24232270574381823162014-01-09T17:18:00.000-06:002014-01-09T17:19:39.701-06:002014: Mais fais le doucementIt has been far too long, hasn't it my friends? <br />
<br />
I agree, but I think 2014 is a great year to get back into writing. Especially because I have so many friends that are all over the place, and I would love for them to stay in the know on what is going on in my life. <br />
<br />
Now, the question: <b><i>why did I stop blogging?</i> </b><br />
You know, there are a lot of reasons for this and among them transitions, change, and graduate school. It was definitely not because I didn't have anything to write about, because if anything I think I have more to write about than I ever have. There are so many things I want to discuss, rant, cry and be angry about. A lot of feminism, a lot of self-discovery, and a lot of laughter in between. To answer it in one word I stopped writing because of growth. I realized in December that I stopped blogging because the person I was portrayed as on this blog had grown up a little bit. I have discovered a lot about myself and what I care about this last semester in graduate school. I think a part of me was afraid of how to express that to the virtual world. <br />
<br />
I have edited my <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html">about me</a> to make it feel a little bit more like my current self. I will be editing the blog here and there in the upcoming months. The important thing is that I am back now and not afraid to voice a lot of strong opinions here every now and then.<br />
<br />
Now, let's get started shall we? What a better way to start than to go over my goals for 2014?! One of my very best and dearest friends and I sat down on New Years Day to write our goals together. We were determined to have a fantastic year, and I think we have gotten off to a really good start. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlloV0b-v6o/Us8s6qo6o-I/AAAAAAAACJg/mLreutxVbXY/s1600/Photo+Dec+26,+10+17+56+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlloV0b-v6o/Us8s6qo6o-I/AAAAAAAACJg/mLreutxVbXY/s1600/Photo+Dec+26,+10+17+56+PM.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, like last year, I divided my goals into professional, physical, and personal goals. It helps me organize them better this way, and I intend on reflecting in six months as well as at the end of the year. <br />
<br />
<b>Professional</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I will learn something new every day and take risks at my internship with one goal in mind: educational equity.</li>
<li>I will begin interviewing/researching for fall internships by April 2014.</li>
<li>I will find opportunities to network at least once a month.</li>
<li>I will read at least three books for professional development (spring, summer, fall)</li>
<li>I will make connections in Austin, New Orleans, Dallas, and the RGV by December 2014 for future job opportunities for 2015.</li>
<li>I will improve at my current job by developing my relationships with my RAs and Residents</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Physical</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>I will continue to walk to school at least four times a week.</li>
<li>I will find an affordable yoga studio that is no more than $30/month.</li>
<li>I will limit my meat (not including fish) to no more than 2X a week (unless holiday falls on that week).</li>
<li>I will eat more vegetables through smoothies (kale, carrots, spinach, celery, tomatoes)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>Personal </b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>HAVE MORE FUN</b></li>
<li>I will have more fun by going out to more pubs on a biweekly minimum.</li>
<li>I will find a stable summer job that will pay the rent by mid-April 2014. </li>
<li>I will finish all my free therapy sessions until the end of the year</li>
<li>I will treat myself to a massage at the end of finals</li>
<li>I will keep in touch with my long distance friends by personally contacting them at least once a month via skype or phone.</li>
<li>I will send more care packages to people I care about for no reason at all (spring, summer, fall)</li>
<li>I will call family members besides my mom biweekly.</li>
<li>I will attend more concerts (3 minimum)</li>
<li>I will ONLY consider dating people whose values meet my checklist <i>(more on that later)</i></li>
<li>I will explore my spirituality and faith by going to the Catholic Student Center for more than monthly happy hour.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<br />
Oh, and for a 2014 mantra? Last year my mantra was "Anything Could Happen" inspired by the Ellie Goulding song. While it is hard to pick a new one, I have decided on something I learned in Louisiana. When I lived there a sweet friend who still inspires me introduced me to the following:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-KebbSdx5A/Us8s5KNMBkI/AAAAAAAACJY/IDGDFN8rIyk/s1600/IMG_4546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-KebbSdx5A/Us8s5KNMBkI/AAAAAAAACJY/IDGDFN8rIyk/s1600/IMG_4546.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Laissez les bon temps rouler (mais fais le doucement)</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i style="font-weight: bold;">Laissez les bon temps rouler (mais fais le doucement), </i>let the good times roll, but do it slowly/gently. Is that not just absolutely fabulous?<br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-59014763793156371802013-08-21T22:02:00.003-05:002013-08-21T22:02:38.804-05:00Deep End // #DreamBigDo you ever feel like the to-do list is literally endless? I feel that way lately. Life has literally been nonstop since my arrival to St. Louis. I haven't even taken the time to organize my closet (except for color coordinating my clothes) since I've arrived in early August. The only reason this isn't bothering me is because I can hide it with the beautiful french doors that lead to it in my bedroom.<br />
<br />
Times of transition leave me feeling out of breath, much like being in the deep end trying to find the shore. The ocean waves are rough and every time they begin to calm down and I can float for a bit, another storm comes rushing in. It's all a part of change, of starting new things and of adjusting to a new place to call temporary home.<br />
<br />
On the bright side, I am starting to love St. Louis more and more. I miss my friends and my family, I am making new ones, and am thinking of my past students a lot. I miss teaching and I worry about the success of my previous students. I hope they are doing their very best to have a successful academic year. I hope they are making good decisions! There are so many things high school students need to hear regularly in order to feel and be successful. <br />
<br />
One of my very best friends that I hold dear to my heart is starting her first year of teaching in my home state and she is teaching juniors in high school. These students live in a community that is approximately 80% Hispanic and like many areas in this country, it is a community struggling with educational inequity. She is grappling with the idea of her students succeeding and whether they will go to college. Whether or not that is what they want to do, it should be a path that is realistic and achievable for them. I know she has the power to do this, she is incredibly intelligent and inspirational, but she needs our help. Ms. Winger wrote a blog post recently asking others to share insight for her students. Insight that allows her students to dream, to reach for the stars, and that inspires them to realize that no goal of theirs is too big. These students, although I have not met them and you have not met them need your words of courage. Even if it is simple, please take a minute and consider writing them a letter, sending a card, or emailing myself or Ms. Winger directly. They need <i>you.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Please click <a href="http://leighannewinger.blogspot.com/2013/08/i-believe-in-you.html">here</a> to find out more on how to help Ms. Winger's students #DreamBig.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e7ZIuijYLtw/Ug7btvQNH9I/AAAAAAAABGI/rnObLVSt5iA/s1600/dreambig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e7ZIuijYLtw/Ug7btvQNH9I/AAAAAAAABGI/rnObLVSt5iA/s400/dreambig.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Words of inspiration from Ms. Winger's classroom </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Thank you.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-81590689240940011522013-08-16T22:28:00.002-05:002013-08-16T22:28:58.071-05:00Meet Me in St. Louis I finally made it to the Lou, and officially have a Saint Louis zip code. My job has been keeping me pretty busy, and will continue to do so until I officially start classes. It makes me sad because I can't blog as much as I would like until things slow down at the end of the month.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--PpYdCnDnIE/Ug7s2PePRgI/AAAAAAAACBY/igf-z2xWqr8/s1600/Photo+Aug+05,+5+38+27+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--PpYdCnDnIE/Ug7s2PePRgI/AAAAAAAACBY/igf-z2xWqr8/s400/Photo+Aug+05,+5+38+27+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
So far, so good though. I love St. Louis and everything that this city has to offer. There are so many neighborhoods to explore, my apartment is approximately 12 minutes walking distance from campus, and I have a gorgeous park that goes on for six miles right around the corner. I really do think I have the best of both worlds because I live right by a major and very busy street with lots of shops and restaurants in an artsy/entertainment district, but my neighborhood is also really quiet. <br />
<br />
Just discovered there is a music festival in early September called Lou Fest! It's super affordable and three bands I want to see are all playing on the same day at different times!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV__uqmPan8/Ug7s2r8EzhI/AAAAAAAACBg/XM0l4-QLaxY/s1600/Photo+Aug+05,+6+58+51+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV__uqmPan8/Ug7s2r8EzhI/AAAAAAAACBg/XM0l4-QLaxY/s400/Photo+Aug+05,+6+58+51+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Busch Stadium - Cardinals Game! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love my job, it's so fun working with the undergraduate population at WashU and really getting to know the campus as if I was experiencing my undergraduate years again too. The staff in residential life here is incredible, and the students I get to work with are so amazing and brilliant. They inspire me. I know we will learn a lot from each other this year. My favorite part of my day is my walk to and from campus, the weather is perfect (much like Texas in the early fall) and I get to see lots of dogs on the way, which I love. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NLxSSXva9Ks/Ug7s4HwXCVI/AAAAAAAACBw/GNnfApy8kd8/s1600/Photo+Aug+05,+8+47+17+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NLxSSXva9Ks/Ug7s4HwXCVI/AAAAAAAACBw/GNnfApy8kd8/s400/Photo+Aug+05,+8+47+17+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">STL Staple: Frozen Custard :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3L1z6kk1E8/Ug7s5dMwrpI/AAAAAAAACB8/VoEbK-wmuxg/s1600/Photo+Aug+07,+8+26+19+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3L1z6kk1E8/Ug7s5dMwrpI/AAAAAAAACB8/VoEbK-wmuxg/s400/Photo+Aug+07,+8+26+19+AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excited for the lineup! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3hB37ZCYdg/Ug7s5lIX5uI/AAAAAAAACB4/Bi7qkfAPDgA/s1600/Photo+Aug+09,+10+33+04+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3hB37ZCYdg/Ug7s5lIX5uI/AAAAAAAACB4/Bi7qkfAPDgA/s400/Photo+Aug+09,+10+33+04+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My bedroom is coming along well </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is also a great city to be studying social work in. I cannot help but notice the makeup of the undergraduate population at WashU, diverse in ways, but at the same time crucial similarities. Similarities that make me question the education systems they were brought up in and why less than 20 miles away are students experiencing some of the worst school systems in the country. I will continue to explore and offer insight into this. <br />
<br />
For now, let me share my gratitude for this transition, for wonderful roommates, and for what's to come in my new city. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIqFUYqI5Tw/Ug7s6AbBc_I/AAAAAAAACCE/bLqu_OnrzYU/s1600/Photo+Aug+16,+7+35+35+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIqFUYqI5Tw/Ug7s6AbBc_I/AAAAAAAACCE/bLqu_OnrzYU/s400/Photo+Aug+16,+7+35+35+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The beautiful sunset I get to see on my walk back from campus!<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'll be back as soon as I can!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-29100189405985212792013-07-24T20:43:00.003-05:002013-07-24T20:43:51.887-05:00Transitions // Dignity // Forgiveness I'm getting SO excited as the summer comes to a close. I remember getting anxiety, sadness, nostalgia, and about a thousand other not so great feelings last year and the year before that around this time. It truly makes me thankful and eternally grateful for where my life is going. I am attempting to appreciate every day and the little things that come with preparing for my new journey to St. Louis. <br />
<br />
More than anything I'm excited to start my new part-time job as a graduate fellow with the office of Residential Life. I've always loved mentoring others and working with young adults. The excitement of starting college as a freshman is contagious and I cannot wait to share it with incoming students at Washington University. Second, I just LOVE the program I have enrolled in and it excites me that my hands-on learning begins in the spring semester. I have the ability to customize my own program based on my future career goals, which if I haven't talked about are rural education and non-profit management. I also plan to explore the idea of school social work. The possibilities are endless...<br />
<br />
On a different note and a little something more personal I'd like to touch base on apologies. I think those of us that are most prideful (I am guilty of this) understand that apologizing is hard to do. A good apology, one that comes from the heart, swallowing that pride, whether a year or five years after should always be appreciated. Sometimes people don't realize they need to apologize and sometimes it takes time for that apology to be honest. In my eyes, a genuine apology deserves forgiveness, and forgiveness requires vulnerability and grace. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TDpDJ225ReY/UfCCQXeTcyI/AAAAAAAACA0/Ey_Q9RRAY-w/s1600/dignity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TDpDJ225ReY/UfCCQXeTcyI/AAAAAAAACA0/Ey_Q9RRAY-w/s400/dignity.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I am referring to all of this here because recently someone that I used to know reached out to me for reconnection and most importantly with a much needed apology. I almost considered not opening the e-mail and simply deleting it, but after reading it I was thankful and am eternally grateful for that apology. I think it was the apology that gave that chapter in my life the closure that was necessary. The reconnection however, is something I cannot do. The reconnection is not about a lack of forgiveness or about pride, but about dignity. Six months ago, or even eight months ago I may have considered accepting reconnection out of politeness. I have realized, however, that for my own mental health and self-respect I choose to not reconnect. To this person: <i>thank you, sincerely, for the apology, and I hope you can respect my decision. </i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-56127089740461828322013-07-21T17:08:00.002-05:002013-07-21T17:10:20.462-05:00Project Repat // T-Shirt BlanketI've been waiting to write a post about my awesome t-shirt blanket! Months ago I bought a Groupon for approximately $67 for a full size (5'x6') t-shirt blanket. Years ago when I was in college I saw that a friend of mine had one that her grandmother made her and it was absolutely perfect. I had fallen in love and wanted one ever since. I never did it because every time I researched online for local people to make one for me the cost exceeded my budget. Usually at least $200 for the most basic style and definitely ranging in the $300 zone. Simply too expensive!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a3iIIUr2Rew/UexboLRQ-WI/AAAAAAAACAc/r0gwFSktyWE/s1600/Photo+Jul+09,+9+48+56+PM+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a3iIIUr2Rew/UexboLRQ-WI/AAAAAAAACAc/r0gwFSktyWE/s400/Photo+Jul+09,+9+48+56+PM+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.projectrepat.com/">Project Repat</a> (the company I bought the Groupon for) is completely affordable and sustainable. The company is based out of Massachusetts and partners with three different organizations to produce the t-shirt blankets. One of the partnerships is with a non-profit that provides jobs for people with disabilities! Neat, huh?<br />
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">How does it work?</i> It's simple, you go to their website and decide what size of blanket you want. The larger the blanket, the greater the cost and the more t-shirts needed. The blanket can be as small as a throw made of 9 t-shirts (right now on sale for $70) or as large as a king size bed (8'x8' or 64 t-shirts) and running at $250. The blankets are made up of 1'x1' squares of t-shirts on one side and high quality Polar-Tec fleece on the other side. Oh, and let me add that this is HIGH QUALITY fleece, it's so thick and so warm. You do NOT have to worry about any additional shipping. Project Repat will send you a kit immediately for you to mail your shirts to them and within 4-6 weeks you'll have a blanket! I was really impressed with the timing of it all. I'm sure it varies, but the entire process did not take more than 3 weeks for me and I had it shipped from Massachusetts to Texas!<br />
<br />
Project Repat also has great customer service, they shoot you an e-mail from an actual person (not one of those automated e-mails you can't respond to) when they receive your shirts. I e-mailed them to ask if I could have grey fleece (because it wasn't an option online) and they responded immediately saying "of course" and that they would edit my order for me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8njh_ruXZc/UexboTKTmKI/AAAAAAAACAg/y7PnCVrR7HY/s1600/Photo+Jul+09,+9+48+56+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8njh_ruXZc/UexboTKTmKI/AAAAAAAACAg/y7PnCVrR7HY/s400/Photo+Jul+09,+9+48+56+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The best part about Project Repat and me sharing my blanket with you is that you can use <b><a href="http://projectrepat.refr.cc/2HNCNQQ"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">THIS CODE</span></a></b> right now to get 15% off your blanket! Take advantage now.<br />
<br />
You're welcome!<br />
Happy t-shirt blanket ordering. Feel free to drop me a comment below if you have any additional questions or concerns regarding Project Repat.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-29873488682567753042013-07-19T17:26:00.001-05:002013-07-19T17:26:42.505-05:00Stone Brewing CompanyI recently went for a pint this past week and was highly impressed with Stone Brewing Company. They are based out of California and have a variety of darker beers and a truly complex combination of flavors. <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OD5i988iuiQ/Uem9Ef0vnrI/AAAAAAAACAA/86WMnxT4_Ls/s640/blogger-image--577218476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OD5i988iuiQ/Uem9Ef0vnrI/AAAAAAAACAA/86WMnxT4_Ls/s640/blogger-image--577218476.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Lately I've been into IPAs a lot. It took a couple of months but my taste finally acquired to the hoppier side of the beer spectrum. I asked the bartender to sample all three Stone IPAs on tap and my favorite was definitely the Cali-Belgique IPA. </div><div><br></div><div>It was crisp, refreshing, but still had a unique blend of flavors. It's robust, yet crisp, with a familiar background. Must be the Belgian style. </div><div><br></div><div>All in all, definitely a thumbs up and worth trying! I would order this again and again. I also gave my brother's Stone stout a try and it was phenomenal. Stone beers must be tasted. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cA_PPi0q0Co/Uem9HybOoRI/AAAAAAAACAI/z4xt-Nnst0M/s640/blogger-image-1012387416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cA_PPi0q0Co/Uem9HybOoRI/AAAAAAAACAI/z4xt-Nnst0M/s640/blogger-image-1012387416.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Happy drinking!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-44855690282895282512013-07-15T00:30:00.000-05:002013-07-15T00:31:06.447-05:00Nekkid Lips <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's a girly kind of Sunday for me. After spending far too long feeling sick and miserable after my trip to California I finally felt like myself again yesterday and mustered up the energy to do my hair, put on some makeup, put on a pretty outfit, and basically feel pretty again.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've been meaning to talk about a couple of things makeup and beauty so here it goes...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last year I talked about the infamous cat eye and my obsession with <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/07/cat-eye-tuesday.html">this</a> eyeliner. Well, a few weeks back my awesome Stila eyeliner finally winged its last eye because it was time for a new one. As much as I was tempted to splurge the $20 for a new one (btw: a year is not bad for an eyeliner that is worn 2-3 times a week), I had seen two or three commercials for the L'Oreal Infallible Super Slim eyeliner. I caved and decided to try the $8 steal at my local drugstore. So far, so good. No, it is NOT Stila, and after a year of using the same eyeliner I was very used to it. The L'Oreal is a GREAT alternative if you cannot justify spending $20 on eyeliner. It is easy to use, long-lasting, has great precision and the same tip as the Stila, making it easy to create a fine or a thicker line as desired. My ONLY complaint, if I absolutely had to have one is that I do like the pigment in the Stila more, it is just a wee bit richer. The L'Oreal is very black and awesome, but I do notice a slight difference in richness. Other than that, you cannot go wrong with the $8 steal! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C84rsqPfpd8/UeOCCzqfVxI/AAAAAAAAB_E/HO7q6RXURP0/s1600/Photo+Jul+14,+10+51+13+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C84rsqPfpd8/UeOCCzqfVxI/AAAAAAAAB_E/HO7q6RXURP0/s400/Photo+Jul+14,+10+51+13+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next on the agenda: lipstick. I have never been a fan of lipstick, lip stains, lip gloss, or any colored lip product other than good ol' fashioned chapstick. This is not to say because I am afraid of a little color, in fact I love color and love to try new things. The problem is my lips. Well, according to my mother at least. My lips are already so naturally <i>rouge</i> that many lip colors don't even really stand out unless it's a bright fuchsia or candy apple red. My mother, who is a lipstick connoisseur is always wanting to try new colors on me at department stores and constantly becomes frustrated because every color looks the same on me...or is not visible. As a result, I have stayed far away from lipsticks and choose not to even bother. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am a fan of nude lips, because my lips are already so naturally bright, I like the idea of toning down my lips when playing up my eyes. Last week I made the executive decision to give lipstick a try. It all started with my friend's Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Charm. I tried it, and fell in love. It is perfect! Moisturizing, dewy, and the perfect nude. I went on the search for it today and also found Revlon's Lustrous Ultra Shine Lipstick in Pink Cognito which I just adored. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnHi-3fO3lY/UeOCAhYFTYI/AAAAAAAAB-4/XZGNd3kB0NU/s1600/Photo+Jul+14,+10+48+54+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnHi-3fO3lY/UeOCAhYFTYI/AAAAAAAAB-4/XZGNd3kB0NU/s400/Photo+Jul+14,+10+48+54+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$7.49 at Target in Charm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0HHXeaZ-0so/UeOCFN3zGhI/AAAAAAAAB_c/Nk72SinBuYI/s1600/Photo+Jul+14,+11+07+00+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0HHXeaZ-0so/UeOCFN3zGhI/AAAAAAAAB_c/Nk72SinBuYI/s400/Photo+Jul+14,+11+07+00+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charm on the lips, excuse any chapping...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxxibGO7-54/UeOCC5KbE1I/AAAAAAAAB_I/Vz-em08HS0s/s1600/Photo+Jul+14,+10+49+38+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxxibGO7-54/UeOCC5KbE1I/AAAAAAAAB_I/Vz-em08HS0s/s400/Photo+Jul+14,+10+49+38+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Pink Cognito $5.99 at Target</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JycUU-rWxtU/UeOCE5pxfdI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/7p0M2pa3I4E/s1600/Photo+Jul+14,+11+08+27+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JycUU-rWxtU/UeOCE5pxfdI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/7p0M2pa3I4E/s400/Photo+Jul+14,+11+08+27+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Cognito! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Me, I'm just prepping for that tropical vacation of mine. I'll fill you in on where I'm going as it nears. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i>Are you a lipstick wearer? What's your favorite shade? Any tips out there?</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
Off to continue this night of beauty by painting my toes the ultimate nude shade: OPI's Bubble Bath.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-36598237181038855472013-07-12T18:14:00.003-05:002013-07-12T18:15:56.978-05:00The Ultimate Snail MailWell, California was amazing (as expected) and never disappointing. I am literally having withdrawals, my body refused to go back to normal the minute I stepped off that plane. I have had low energy, a semi-stuffy nose/head, fatigue, loss of apetite, and come and go nausea. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I finally felt well enough to bathe, drink a gatorade, and eat most of my kids meal from Blimpie today. Oh, and obviously well enough to research these infamous boxes that you can subscribe to monthly or annually. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am intrigued...I love snail mail and I love receiving products, especially full-size or partially full-sized products.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The dilemma...Birchbox or Popsugar?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Can I have both?! Here's the thing, my birthday is at the end of the month and ideally I would treat myself to both for at least two months each. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><a href="http://birchbox.com/">Birchbox</a></b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>$10/month, free shipping</li>
<li>4-5 sample sized (sometimes you get full) high-end beauty samples</li>
<li>All items are customized for you based on your beauty profile</li>
<li>Review products and earn points towards your account</li>
<li>You can purchase full-sized items on their website </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzb6fDHQCso/UeCNgkpJOxI/AAAAAAAAB-g/kHBUmBkevo8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-12+at+6.11.05+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzb6fDHQCso/UeCNgkpJOxI/AAAAAAAAB-g/kHBUmBkevo8/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-12+at+6.11.05+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<b><a href="http://musthave.popsugar.com/">Popsugar</a> MUST HAVE</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>$35/month, free shipping</li>
<li>Save more if you subscribe for 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, etc.</li>
<li>You receive over $100 worth in full-sized products</li>
<li>Must haves in beauty, fitness, home, fashion, and food</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJOUntdEM3E/UeCNij7sYBI/AAAAAAAAB-o/Z0ww6Wsz1hw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-12+at+6.12.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJOUntdEM3E/UeCNij7sYBI/AAAAAAAAB-o/Z0ww6Wsz1hw/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-07-12+at+6.12.25+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<b><i>Thoughts? Do you subscribe to either of these services? </i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
I know, I know, as my friend Liz would say, "<i>First world problems."</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-57099314441735661682013-07-03T10:45:00.001-05:002013-07-03T10:45:32.329-05:00Healthy Airport EatsIsn't it always such a drag getting wholesome foods at the airport? <div><br></div><div>Sometimes I just hold off until my next destination to eat, but on days like today when I've been up since 5am with no breakfast and a long layover, I need to fuel up!</div><div><br></div><div>My go-to is always Starbucks <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wq5k7epnMhk/UdQ5LCDE-9I/AAAAAAAAB9g/HN3GB8hiG8M/s640/blogger-image--152571235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wq5k7epnMhk/UdQ5LCDE-9I/AAAAAAAAB9g/HN3GB8hiG8M/s640/blogger-image--152571235.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I choose their Perfect Oatmeal: the perfect energy breakfast. Complete with an array of toppings from dried fruit to brown sugar and mixed nuts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mQm23NOhbtQ/UdRHGmQttvI/AAAAAAAAB-A/JhpJsdVi4Dw/s640/blogger-image--1881648822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mQm23NOhbtQ/UdRHGmQttvI/AAAAAAAAB-A/JhpJsdVi4Dw/s640/blogger-image--1881648822.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I also order a tall iced coffee with 2% milk , cinnamon, sans sweetener. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-j3JjFEIc23Q/UdRHDmAJS8I/AAAAAAAAB94/tiWSW7KMjwM/s640/blogger-image-1018679645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-j3JjFEIc23Q/UdRHDmAJS8I/AAAAAAAAB94/tiWSW7KMjwM/s640/blogger-image-1018679645.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If I cannot find a Starbucks in my airport or terminal there is usually a Smoothie King (or similar place). I find the best smoothie that will keep me full the longest but is still fairly lean. Usually some kind of chocolate protein, banana, and peanut butter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Still struggling to find something, most convenience stores at airports have energy bars as fresh fruit. Opt for that until you reach your destination. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><i>What about you, any airport breakfast faves?</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><i><br></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Off to catch up with this girl, who just caught up with me at Dallas DFW!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OHtrzTKZwEQ/UdRHBIO_7bI/AAAAAAAAB9w/Iyw-cxyIcVU/s640/blogger-image-847590277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OHtrzTKZwEQ/UdRHBIO_7bI/AAAAAAAAB9w/Iyw-cxyIcVU/s640/blogger-image-847590277.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-37929836692981595012013-07-03T06:19:00.001-05:002013-07-10T18:15:24.700-05:00Do you know the way to San Jose?!Posting from the plane this morning!!!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So very excited to be reunited with three lovely girlfriends of mine in the Bay Area. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am attending a traditional Punjabi wedding and could not be more ready to soak in the cultural experience. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j5Ee3vVeDEA/UdQIaR3kQ0I/AAAAAAAAB9I/QwrMAjn5fis/s640/blogger-image-1027138240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j5Ee3vVeDEA/UdQIaR3kQ0I/AAAAAAAAB9I/QwrMAjn5fis/s400/blogger-image-1027138240.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eS_upMwy5lw/UdQI2ow5uTI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/c5OIi7--icM/s640/blogger-image--734322749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eS_upMwy5lw/UdQI2ow5uTI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/c5OIi7--icM/s400/blogger-image--734322749.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
See y'all on the Pacific Coast! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-63772097099515520122013-06-25T11:00:00.000-05:002013-06-25T11:47:39.956-05:00Stay Glassy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today's post is a little different, it's about being chic, stylish, and <strike>classy</strike> glassy. If unlike me you are not a glassy person don't stop reading, this post is still for you! </div>
<br />
A couple of months back I went to the optometrist and she told me my eyesight was getting worse because of my overuse of contact lenses. Given that I have been wearing contact lenses since I was twelve and rarely take them off it made sense to me. So in March I went on the virtual journey to find the perfect set of glasses that I would feel chic, smart, and stylish in. This is how I encountered <a href="http://warbyparker.com/">Warby Parker</a> and they are the sole reason behind my post today. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7eaC4hNj-js/Ucj1xj36aII/AAAAAAAAB8k/e6IqjRpQZCQ/s1600/IMG_4607.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7eaC4hNj-js/Ucj1xj36aII/AAAAAAAAB8k/e6IqjRpQZCQ/s320/IMG_4607.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uBrAq40Sbu0/Ucj1ysEba5I/AAAAAAAAB8w/oaM8sNhRmzw/s1600/IMG_4631.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uBrAq40Sbu0/Ucj1ysEba5I/AAAAAAAAB8w/oaM8sNhRmzw/s320/IMG_4631.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Utto6U6mXm8/Ucj1zt-2mFI/AAAAAAAAB84/efaYrt5epus/s1600/IMG_4787.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Utto6U6mXm8/Ucj1zt-2mFI/AAAAAAAAB84/efaYrt5epus/s400/IMG_4787.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wearing the <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/sims#striped-sassafras">Sims in Striped Sassafras </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Warby Parker specializes in eyewear (both prescribed and non-prescribed glasses and sunglasses). Their concept:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i>"Warby Parker was founded with a rebellious spirit and a lofty objective: to create boutique-quality, classically crafted eyewear at a revolutionary price point." </i></b><br />
<br />
Um, hello, this is exactly what I had been searching for! I've always wanted "cool" glasses, but designer frames can cost you up to $400. I want to be able to change my glasses at minimum annually and not feel like I have burnt a hole in my wallet by doing so each time. Warby Parker does just this by providing high quality, custom-fit glasses with anti-reflective, polycarbonate prescriptive (or non) lenses.<br />
<br />
Now, let's get to my favorite part...if I haven't convinced you by now to go check out Warby Parker then you need to know that they are all about giving. Worldwide almost one billion people lack access to glasses. This means that 15% of the population cannot effectively learn or work. Warby Parker ensures that for every pair of glasses (sunglasses too!) that is sold, a pair is distributed to someone in need. (Read more <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/do-good/#home">here</a>).</div>
<div>
Let's sum up why you should give Warby Parker a try:<br />
<ul>
<li>Affordable </li>
<li>High Quality </li>
<li>Glasses and Sunglasses (prescribed or non-prescribed) </li>
<li>Free Shipping</li>
<li>At <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/home-try-on">Home Try-On</a> w/amazing feedback and customer service on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/warbyparker">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/warbyparker">Twitter</a>, or <a href="http://instagram.com/warbyparker">Instagram</a></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOgMb_uq10s/Ucj1s4uJPGI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/oCv_c0mpDtQ/s1600/Photo+Jun+24,+8+42+02+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOgMb_uq10s/Ucj1s4uJPGI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/oCv_c0mpDtQ/s400/Photo+Jun+24,+8+42+02+PM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: start;">I used the </span><a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/home-try-on" style="text-align: start;">Home Try-On</a></span><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Program!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Their new <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses">Meridian</a> collection! </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upZL3SkHIsc/Ucj1rEPi5UI/AAAAAAAAB7w/RTVPE9-rtfo/s1600/MCModelShot.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upZL3SkHIsc/Ucj1rEPi5UI/AAAAAAAAB7w/RTVPE9-rtfo/s400/MCModelShot.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses">Meridian</a> collection launches today! It's perfect for summer, perfect for traveling. You can get these designer quality frames in time for your next vacation. Who doesn't love a classic aviator?! Oh, and not to mention they look good on both men & women. Prescription or non-prescription, your sunglasses are still going to be a fraction of what you would pay for designer. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIwDpCJfZY8/Ucj1nc1CO_I/AAAAAAAAB64/aqzS8S12TsY/s1600/Exley-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIwDpCJfZY8/Ucj1nc1CO_I/AAAAAAAAB64/aqzS8S12TsY/s400/Exley-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pCoSIzK-tYU/Ucj1oZCpb9I/AAAAAAAAB7M/U7AdAk39INo/s1600/Exley-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pCoSIzK-tYU/Ucj1oZCpb9I/AAAAAAAAB7M/U7AdAk39INo/s400/Exley-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Exley in Polished Gold and Jet Silver on top</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UCcvtfUFlKM/Ucj1psqxvgI/AAAAAAAAB7k/Zg2VELSUF9o/s1600/Flannery-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UCcvtfUFlKM/Ucj1psqxvgI/AAAAAAAAB7k/Zg2VELSUF9o/s400/Flannery-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tR1MiKVKWw8/Ucj1rBR4Z6I/AAAAAAAAB74/XziM7uZmAqE/s1600/Raskin-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tR1MiKVKWw8/Ucj1rBR4Z6I/AAAAAAAAB74/XziM7uZmAqE/s400/Raskin-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: start;">The Raskin with a larger lens & wider frame available in Polished Gold and Jet Silver </span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGz46ZhQkvU/Ucj1scg2bHI/AAAAAAAAB8I/EYzA_poHai0/s1600/Raskin-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGz46ZhQkvU/Ucj1scg2bHI/AAAAAAAAB8I/EYzA_poHai0/s400/Raskin-sun-polished-gold-front.jpg" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5VHLL2Q_PeA/Ucj1osfRZPI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/35PMp9_mtjQ/s1600/Flannery-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5VHLL2Q_PeA/Ucj1osfRZPI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/35PMp9_mtjQ/s400/Flannery-sun-jet-silver-front.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: start;">The Flannery is a medium fit pair also available in Polished Gold and Jet Silver. </span><span style="text-align: start;">I especially love the tortoise detail on the Jet Silver Flannery! </span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
<br />
Can't decide what pair would look best? Keep in mind that you can choose all three styles in more than one color for your Home Try-On now! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy shopping.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Do you own a pair of Warby Parkers? Do you love them as much as I do? Comment below.</i></b></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-46279872534305118172013-06-21T18:07:00.004-05:002013-06-21T22:12:42.257-05:00Fashion FridaySince I slacked on WIWW (What I Wore Wednesday), let's do a Fashion Friday for kicks.<br>
<br>
Happy Friday!<br>
<br>
Today I spent a lot of time organizing some t-shirts and packing them into a box to mail to <a href="http://www.projectrepat.com/">Project Repat</a>. You see I've been wanting a t-shirt blanket for a good while now, and finally the other day a Groupon became available for one! I bought it back in January or February and had to redeem it by July 1st. Being the procrastinator I am, I of course, finally decided it was time to take care of business. Project Repat is a company that is way more affordable than your typical t-shirt quilt maker and are high-quality and awesome. I will make sure to post my results once my blanket shows up in 4-6 weeks. Hopefully before I head out to St. Louis!<br>
<br>
Now for today's outfit. I'm obsessed with skirts--maxi, mid-length, tiered, I love skirts. I'm not usually a Forever 21 shopper, quite frankly the store is overwhelming and I am too indecisive to spend less than 30 minutes there and get what I want. Also, I don't like their return policy. However, when I am having a fashion obsession (ie. skirts) I track down the most affordable location for it. This means FoFo (Forever 21), H&M (doesn't exist back home), or TJ Maxx. This is just a forewarning as to all the skirts you may be seeing me in. <br>
<br>
Second, the necklace I'm wearing in the pictures I scouted from TJ Maxx. I've been looking for a great simple and classic piece of turquoise jewelry that is truly timeless and chic. I fell in love with this pure turquoise necklace I found at less than $25 (STEAL!). <br>
<br>
Before you see the outfit, please excuse the selfies, I usually find someone to take a picture of me, but I lacked a friend today.<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqbcYwm41LM/UcTb4XN9xbI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/PwGnKSL4BlQ/s1600/Photo+Jun+21,+1+12+46+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqbcYwm41LM/UcTb4XN9xbI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/PwGnKSL4BlQ/s400/Photo+Jun+21,+1+12+46+PM.jpg" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Genuine Gemstone Turquoise Necklace - TJ Maxx</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PW5T54_r3GQ/UcTU5kmggvI/AAAAAAAAB54/DCCMmAZrXz4/s1600/Photo+Jun+21,+1+11+02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PW5T54_r3GQ/UcTU5kmggvI/AAAAAAAAB54/DCCMmAZrXz4/s400/Photo+Jun+21,+1+11+02+PM.jpg" width="300"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blouse & Skirt - Forever 21<br>Belt - Stein Mart<br>Sandals (not visible) - Target circa 2008 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gwaPZmuxJWs/UcTU6yjGfwI/AAAAAAAAB6A/K148pcXl-hQ/s1600/Photo+Jun+21,+1+11+19+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gwaPZmuxJWs/UcTU6yjGfwI/AAAAAAAAB6A/K148pcXl-hQ/s400/Photo+Jun+21,+1+11+19+PM.jpg" width="300"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiered Skirt </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hope your weekend is off to a great start ;)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-45544751727802478842013-06-21T01:45:00.003-05:002013-06-21T01:45:43.177-05:00Unpacking // Nostalgia I have always hated unpacking, okay who really likes doing this awful chore anyway (don't answer that)? But really, I am the person who will literally take weeks before unpacking a suitcase. Now, packing, I'm quite a champ at, but when it comes to unloading suitcases I need to be forced after three weeks of it sitting (just ask my roommates). I have attempted to get into the habit of immediately unpacking within thirty minutes of arriving so that I am not putting it off like the slacker I am. Has not been entirely successful yet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My procrastination when it comes to unpacking is probably why it did not surprise me one bit when I also put off to metaphorically unpack the emotions in my life. If I reflect back on the past two years, a LOT has happened. I am a completely different me than I was May of 2011. <a href="http://leighannewinger.blogspot.com/">One of my best friends </a>pointed out to me that it's that time, time to unpack, partly because new chapters are unfolding in my life, risks are being taken, and he deserves someone who travels light. Someone who has washed the crinkled up clothes that have been sitting there for entirely too long, maybe even throw some out because they have gone out of style. <br />
<br />
So, here I am as I unpack the past two years of my life, with vulnerability and no hesitations.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Currently</i></b> - I am relaxing at home, in the Rio Grande Valley, spending time with my family. It is absolute bliss not having a care in the world (well, sort of). I am taking time for myself, recharging, appreciating myself. Current schedule: wake up, read, run errands (if any), gym, read, eat, repeat. No regrets because I know it will be busy, busy, busy come August when school starts for me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">Louisiana</i> - you can read more about my feelings about teaching <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2013/06/an-ode-to-louisiana.html">here</a>, but my time in Louisiana ended up being a true blessing. I have a little cajun in my soul and I would not change the past two years of my life for anything. <br />
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">Mon sha - </i>the current man in my life. He was unexpected, like I met you once and mindlessly flirted landing my friends and I with a little something extra. As in, I went out with you thinking it would be a one time thing, a one week thing, a just-til-I-leave-in-May thing. I am not sure about a lot of things with him, but he makes sense right now. We are completely different, he likes black, I like white. He prefers classic rock and roll to my favorite Jason Aldean country song. I drink beer, he drinks....something else (ha!). He is nothing like anyone I have ever met in Louisiana, and that might be my favorite part. He's loyal, and kind, he's respectful, and means what he says. He has strong opinions, but is always willing to listen to the opinion of others. We are learning about each other, and I will keep y'all posted on how the test goes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6hc0ub9wQ1g/UcP2b-4eu0I/AAAAAAAAB5g/aj-G4tajbrQ/s1600/IMG_5207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6hc0ub9wQ1g/UcP2b-4eu0I/AAAAAAAAB5g/aj-G4tajbrQ/s400/IMG_5207.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i><b>May 2011 - May 2012</b> - </i>this was byfar the most difficult period in my <strike>life </strike>early twenties. I not only transitioned out of college and into the "real world", which was extremely scary, but I also moved to a new state and started one of the most difficult and underrated jobs someone can have in our country. I was dating someone pretty seriously at the time. Let me define "pretty serious", I thought that we would be engaged by December 2013 and Married by the end of 2014 (wtf?! GTFO?! I know....). Anyway, this person, although I was in love at the time, added a lot of good things to my life and I learned many things. Among many things he taught me patience, to listen, to be selfless, and overall more sensitive to the needs of others. However, instead of growing into a person I loved, sadly I closed off to others, especially my best friends. Instead of becoming a better version of myself I began asking myself what I did wrong and how I could better myself for him, because he never made me feel good enough. Frankly, I was never that attracted to him physically (but still blinded by love), though he was to me. I could never "give" him what he needed, and though I tried and tried and tried, it never appeared to be enough. I gave, and gave, and gave, and gave, and gave, and really and truly I was drained. Things about me that were never an issue at the start of the relationship turned into LIFE issues at the end of it. Instead of giving the <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/06/recap-summer-2012.html">selfless support</a> I needed when my life got so tough I almost quit everything I had worked for and moved back to Texas, he sunk me down. To this day it overwhelms my chest with anxiety to think of the person I had become. I was not myself, I was not happy, I was not light and sunny, I felt heavy and drained at the same time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANsQqFPoID8/UcPtKeaz2vI/AAAAAAAAB5A/-omeiy0DNUQ/s1600/IMG_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANsQqFPoID8/UcPtKeaz2vI/AAAAAAAAB5A/-omeiy0DNUQ/s400/IMG_0021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I went through a period of pure abstinence from men/dating/love, I was enjoying being single and learning to be me by myself and loving who I had always been. Somehow sometime between <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/09/love-and-spontaneity-in-seattle.html">Seattle</a> and <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2013/01/rain-day-mantra.html">the beginning of 2013</a> I learned to become lighter than I've ever been. I opened up a side of me I never have before. I did it with my students, so why shouldn't I do it in real life? Things that used to bother me as much just didn't, I became more vulnerable and open to love and new things. I told myself I would never again let a relationship get in the way of friendships, I would protect my heart, but without a fear to let others in. It's a process in the making, just ask my best friends :)<br />
<br />
Now, commitment is something I have to work through. I'm talking long-term commitments. This is a fear I will talk about next time....<br />
<br />
I am emotionally exhausted, as I'm sure you are too if you're still reading this. Off to paint my nails something other than "Cajun Shrimp" ;)<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is Fashion Friday because I slacked on What I Wore Wednesday.<br />
<br />
<b><i>If you've been with me this entire time, have you seen me grow through this blog? </i></b><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-81393431904432891672013-06-13T13:36:00.000-05:002013-06-13T13:37:37.251-05:00An Ode to Louisiana<i>Ma chère Louisiane</i>,<br />
<br />
Though I have hated you at times when my life was crumbling, I now cannot seem to get you out of my skin. You are permanently engrained in me. Your culture, your accents, your ways. My two years spent amidst your bayous and swamplands have put a little cajun in my soul. The start of October will always have a certain ring with the voices of my first students excited for the opening of squirrel season. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tp1FzhbE4U/UboPgV_rSeI/AAAAAAAAB4o/3dEVI1iZFow/s1600/IMG_5133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tp1FzhbE4U/UboPgV_rSeI/AAAAAAAAB4o/3dEVI1iZFow/s400/IMG_5133.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Bayou at Twilight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4lPXH8Qfi8g/UboOIfh9jiI/AAAAAAAAB34/xr_RZ642CCA/s1600/IMG_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4lPXH8Qfi8g/UboOIfh9jiI/AAAAAAAAB34/xr_RZ642CCA/s400/IMG_0699.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer 2011</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Louisiane</i>, your food has taught me that I must have been a cajun in a past life. Cracklin's, etouffees, gumbos, and understanding that rice and gravy is not as literal as it sounds. Your beer has been good to me, and your seasonal Abita Strawberry makes me as excited as Texas' Shiner Cheer at Christmas time. Your love for a good time has given new meaning to parades and festivals, for you like to throw one for any and EVERY occasion. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMYLikFOOmc/UboOSOM4mdI/AAAAAAAAB4A/HpsMt8YBkQE/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMYLikFOOmc/UboOSOM4mdI/AAAAAAAAB4A/HpsMt8YBkQE/s400/IMG_3419.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I will miss the ability to purchase hard liquor at my local convenience store, though I never found the need for it, I liked knowing it was a possibility. Or purchasing an adult slushy (aka: daiquiri) after a hard day, and never being carded at bars though we both know I look twelve. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lT-cnhg8tvM/UboO10IJBoI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/koOtPtJ49BA/s1600/IMG_0046_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lT-cnhg8tvM/UboO10IJBoI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/koOtPtJ49BA/s400/IMG_0046_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The <strike>love</strike> obsession for college football, like I've never seen before. The start of Mardi Gras season and days off from work to assure a time well spent. I will miss these things. Zydeco, and it's reminders of home with the accordion and traditional dance. <br />
<br />
The cajun french, I fell in love, mostly because I could understand. Maybe it was my background in Spanish, or my background in French, either way I was connected. From <i>catin (</i>not a prostitute in Louisiane), to <i>couillon </i>for fools, or referring to kitty cats as <i>minou minou's</i>. <i>Fais do do</i> to bed, <i>canaille</i>, <i>de</i>'s instead of the's and <i>ax</i> instead of ask, <i>chiren</i> for the kids, <i>coo!</i> when excited, <i>IF!</i> to affirm something,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RAr9-72ZYjo/UboPNmpcpwI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/WTeMqnSk3Kc/s1600/IMG_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RAr9-72ZYjo/UboPNmpcpwI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/WTeMqnSk3Kc/s400/IMG_0025.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gTXBCpgKHM/UboPSfB2gxI/AAAAAAAAB4g/9Ut8nWGJJWs/s1600/IMG_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gTXBCpgKHM/UboPSfB2gxI/AAAAAAAAB4g/9Ut8nWGJJWs/s400/IMG_0033.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i>Louisiane, </i>I will miss your lack of prepositions, your questions sounding like statements, and as many Brouillettes, Couvillions, Gauthiers, Gaspards, Thibodeauxs, Lemoines, DeSotos, Dauzats, Dauzarts as there are Smiths, Jacksons, Johnsons, Garcias, or Rodriguez. <br />
<br />
But most of all I am going to miss the people who have touched my soul. To every student I had the honor of teaching, I am sorry I was not always the best, but I am grateful for the opportunity to teach you. I am thankful for the opportunity to help shape you into a better version of yourself. I am sorry if I you caught me in a frustrated state or if you were never told how much I cared. I am going to miss those who made Louisiana welcoming, perfect, and a place I will always call my home. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g4aT1H5CCd4/UboOZxKlo_I/AAAAAAAAB4I/6iZCH_QxxIU/s1600/IMG_4546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g4aT1H5CCd4/UboOZxKlo_I/AAAAAAAAB4I/6iZCH_QxxIU/s400/IMG_4546.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let the good times roll, but do it slowly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is not <i>auvoir</i> it is <i>à plus tard. </i>You are my second home, you have a piece of my heart, and I'll be seeing you.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lz2o4Ol84S4/UboPqiiG1EI/AAAAAAAAB4w/IjVh6iQ2FH4/s1600/IMG_5097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lz2o4Ol84S4/UboPqiiG1EI/AAAAAAAAB4w/IjVh6iQ2FH4/s400/IMG_5097.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheers to good things that are going to happen...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-62722152588034748752013-04-08T17:33:00.000-05:002013-04-08T17:33:09.146-05:00Checking in<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VBUJNelcT7o/UWNDa0L53OI/AAAAAAAAB24/f61HTqUDlZ8/s1600/Photo+Mar+30,+6+27+41+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VBUJNelcT7o/UWNDa0L53OI/AAAAAAAAB24/f61HTqUDlZ8/s400/Photo+Mar+30,+6+27+41+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remember my mantra?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that we are one third of the way through 2013 (eek!) I think it's a perfect time to check in with my goals for the year. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's take a look back at what I said <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/12/goals-for-2013.html">here</a>.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Personal Goals</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go on a blind date</span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ask someone out on a date, because who says I can't go after what I want?</span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Find a more unified theme for my blog, and increase my viewing audience</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go on at least four brewery tours by the end of the year</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ride a hot air balloon</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strike>Send birthday packages/care packages/cards to show I love my family and friends</strike> </span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Buy all Christmas gifts by the end of November</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Send out Christmas cards by the first week of December</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make a habit out of reading CNN, just like I read blogs/social media sites</span></li>
<ul style="color: #000033;">
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Every time I open social media I have to open CNN or another news source</span></li>
</ul>
<li><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000033;">Minimizing all meat intake to once a week </span><span style="color: red;">I've done a great job doing this so far</span></span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go ALL OUT for holidays (Valentine's, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Fourth of July, Mardi Gras)</span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Travel abroad at least once this year </span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strike>Travel to NYC, New Orleans</strike>, Dallas (for you, <a href="http://wishloveoneveryone.blogspot.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;">Sarah</a>), Boston, Seattle, and Santa Fe</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take another road trip across the country</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">See more of my best friends (in person)</span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go to at least one concert</span></strike></li>
</ul>
<div style="color: #000033;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Physical Goals</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Continue to improve my yoga practice, and master at least two more headstands, including variations of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;"><span id="goog_226523246"></span>dolphin<span id="goog_226523247"></span></a> and<a href="http://www-cosmetics-makeup.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/scorpion-pose-yoga2.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;"> scorpion</a></span></li>
<li><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">Join a yoga studio by the end of September 2013</span></strike></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Join a gym with spinning classes by the end of September 2013 and join</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Find a team sport/ book club (not physical, but still) / beer tasting club or other group the join by October 2013</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Professional Goals</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<ul style="line-height: 20.796875px;">
<li style="color: #000033;"><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">If accepted to a graduate program I want to choose one that will help achieve my long-term professional goals</span></strike></li>
<li><strike><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000033;">Apply to work at Teach For America's Summer Institute to gain professional development and better improve my management skills and leading a group of people towards success. </span><span style="color: red;">Decided not to apply after all. </span></span></strike></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Give my students a purpose every day for why they are in my classroom, with a goal-driven mindset until they exit in May 2013</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mentor at minimum two more students individually on their life goals</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Set up a field trip for my Spanish I & Spanish II students by end of March 2013</span></li>
<li style="color: #000033;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make sure I am always doing something to work for social justice, whether that is volunteering somewhere new, helping individuals, or donating to a cause.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="color: #000033; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not bad, huh? Lots has been happening since the last time I graced the blog world with my presence. Let's recap...</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">I went home to Texas and spent an incredible amount of time with one of my best friends</span></span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wkAe2_I7tYs/UWNDO6l1C8I/AAAAAAAAB1w/UmOWmJuMWQc/s1600/Photo+Mar+28,+7+48+14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wkAe2_I7tYs/UWNDO6l1C8I/AAAAAAAAB1w/UmOWmJuMWQc/s400/Photo+Mar+28,+7+48+14+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken in East Austin, Texas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">My <a href="http://healthytippingpoint.com/">favorite blogger</a> has reduced her blogging to once or twice a week </span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">I have since then learned that age is just a number. Just a number. JUST. A. NUMBER.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Felt.."<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yapf2QvFHfw">free like bluebonnets in the summer</a>"</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJgYfe0lXLQ/UWNDKEM_5LI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/gxkeo1E0lU4/s1600/Photo+Mar+27,+7+18+02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJgYfe0lXLQ/UWNDKEM_5LI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/gxkeo1E0lU4/s400/Photo+Mar+27,+7+18+02+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qSbKxHFp0Nw/UWNBvMRXJSI/AAAAAAAAB1I/dOLprqht5E0/s1600/Photo+Mar+27,+7+17+10+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qSbKxHFp0Nw/UWNBvMRXJSI/AAAAAAAAB1I/dOLprqht5E0/s400/Photo+Mar+27,+7+17+10+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bluebonnets are the Texas state flower and bloom in the springtime in the Hill Country</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Continued to sit on my porch</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Started reading the book Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/USATODAY/2013/03/20/ap-books-sheryl-sandberg-3_4_r536_c534.jpg?1b79b3da202957124496e3768cfb7b67cdb10c81" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/USATODAY/2013/03/20/ap-books-sheryl-sandberg-3_4_r536_c534.jpg?1b79b3da202957124496e3768cfb7b67cdb10c81" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Got <strike>classier</strike> glassier and invested in two pairs of new frames by <a href="http://warbyparker.com/">Warby Parker</a> and <a href="http://rivetandsway.com/">Rivet and Sway</a></span></span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyI6Lb3ItAc/UWNDc25V0xI/AAAAAAAAB3E/tDqHatiU-UI/s1600/Photo+Mar+31,+9+43+28+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyI6Lb3ItAc/UWNDc25V0xI/AAAAAAAAB3E/tDqHatiU-UI/s400/Photo+Mar+31,+9+43+28+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mantra by Rivet and Sway on top and the Sims frame by Warby Parker on the bottom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;">Went to the beach</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDKMbDBh0wU/UWNDXT0EvsI/AAAAAAAAB2o/PzfVdiCUb8A/s1600/Photo+Mar+30,+6+14+08+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDKMbDBh0wU/UWNDXT0EvsI/AAAAAAAAB2o/PzfVdiCUb8A/s400/Photo+Mar+30,+6+14+08+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnMtxDONR-U/UWNDcOjc_kI/AAAAAAAAB28/3LcgEnWMis4/s1600/Photo+Mar+30,+7+07+56+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnMtxDONR-U/UWNDcOjc_kI/AAAAAAAAB28/3LcgEnWMis4/s400/Photo+Mar+30,+7+07+56+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000033;">Drank some good craft beer </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g9axP6KEmoA/UWNDSMegDWI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/L-b9-iYChao/s1600/Photo+Mar+29,+9+38+12+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g9axP6KEmoA/UWNDSMegDWI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/L-b9-iYChao/s400/Photo+Mar+29,+9+38+12+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>What are you reading/drinking/enjoying? </i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>Have you checked in on your New Year's Resolutions?</i></b></div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-3949981951651206202013-03-24T14:02:00.003-05:002013-03-24T14:02:59.986-05:00First World Problems I have now had the Clarisonic Mia2 Brush for approximately three months and it is probably my favorite beauty item. My mom was sweet enough to buy me one last year with some ultra mega discounts she got. The Clarisonic is quite a splurge for the average shopper, running anywhere from $119 to $200, but let me tell you that it is worth it. Clarisonic has amazing customer service too! With a Limited 1-3 year warranty and a 90-Day 100% Money Back Guarantee, how can you not try it? <br />
<br />
My friend recently had a defective Clarisonic brush that stopped turning on/off out of nowhere, she called Clarisonic, they shipped one to her the very next day with two new brush heads and a label for her to ship her old one right back. AMAZING customer service or what?<br />
<br />
According to Clarisonic, their cleansing benefits include:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Removes 6X more makeup than manual cleansing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Leaves skin feeling and looking smoothe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Removes impurities that keep creams and serums from working their best</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gentle enough to use twice a day</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reduces oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Minimizes the appearance of visible pores</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<a href="http://www.clarisonic.com/what_is_sonic_skin_care/what_is_sonic_cleansing/introduction/">Source</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It only takes one minute to wash your face. You use it for 20 seconds on forehead, 20 seconds on chin/nose, and 10 seconds on each cheek. <i>Voila!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wp9WCKYkDPM/UU9JRsLKUWI/AAAAAAAAB0o/FwZe1jWByVE/s1600/gallery_mia2_pinkangle_669x375_10062011.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wp9WCKYkDPM/UU9JRsLKUWI/AAAAAAAAB0o/FwZe1jWByVE/s400/gallery_mia2_pinkangle_669x375_10062011.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have the Mia2 (Retail $149) in this soft pink color, but it comes in all sorts of fun colors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Difference between the Mia and the Mia2, a nice travel case and a timer! Mia2 is the way to go. Check out the Clarisonic website for more info.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PFCxlmCAuQ/UU9NW_zepaI/AAAAAAAAB0w/HytOFxwy1aI/s1600/mini-satsuma-shower-gel_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2PFCxlmCAuQ/UU9NW_zepaI/AAAAAAAAB0w/HytOFxwy1aI/s400/mini-satsuma-shower-gel_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<br />
My last beauty rant involves something a little bit on the citrus side. I have a bit of an obsession with The Body Shop's Satsuma line. I started using their Satsuma Body Butter last spring and fell in love. The smell is so natural, none of that artificial smelling yucky stuff. <a href="http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/index.aspx?cm_re=Tyra_CoreIngredients2013-_-Navigation-_-logo">The Body Shop</a> is all about natural ingredients, against animal testing, vegetarian, fair trade, and protecting the planet. My second favorite product from the Satsuma line is the body wash. I love to shower, there is nothing like a good shower to rejuvenate you, but let me tell you that the Satsuma body wash gives a new meaning to the shower experience. You can smell the lovely citrus even after you shower, and you will give shower envy to whomever showers after you. It basically rocks my world and you should go check it out after you finish reading this. <br />
<br />
<b><i>Do you have a body wash you feel this way about? Give a testimonial about your Clarisonic! Share below!</i></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-51451557070768122102013-03-23T23:43:00.003-05:002013-03-24T00:11:28.126-05:00LiebsterThank goodness it's spring y'all! I am so happy to see flowers blooming, the weather getting warmer, sunny showers, and brighter colors taking over my wardrobe. Spring is bittersweet because it means my last weeks in Louisiana will soon come to an end and a chapter in my life will close, but I've got to focus on enjoying the daily happenings in my life.<br />
<br />
On a sunnier note, my sweet friend Christine at <a href="http://xtinedanielle.com/">xtine danielle</a> has nominated me for the Liebster Award. I've always wanted to be nominated for a blog award and getting my blog out there is one of my <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/12/goals-for-2013.html">annual goals</a>. Working as a busy teacher, I don't get to focus on my blog as much as I would like to, but come summer time and once I start graduate school in the fall I intend on dedicating much more time to The Bright Side. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7g0lWa3jA9g/UU6EX-9bQPI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/WC24QC5GcbU/s1600/liebster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7g0lWa3jA9g/UU6EX-9bQPI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/WC24QC5GcbU/s1600/liebster.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thank YOU Christine for the nomination and for helping me to promote my blog. Christine is one of the sunniest people I know, she has <a href="http://xtinedanielle.com/2012/02/26/how-i-went-from-planning-my-wedding-to-having-brain-surgery-in-a-week/">an incredible story</a> and always has a smile on her face. I remember Christine being a pleasure to talk to at all times, her love for the Boston Red Sox, and her love for good music. <br />
<br />
<b>What is it?</b><br />
The Liebster Award i<span style="font-family: inherit;">s given to new and upcoming bloggers who have less than 200 followers or so. Liebster is German for "<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: justify;">sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing, and welcome." </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><b>Nomination made by...</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 24px;">Christine at <a href="http://xtinedanielle.com/">xtine danielle</a> nominated me <a href="http://xtinedanielle.com/2013/03/23/blog-award-nominations/">here</a> for the award. <i>Merci, beaucoup.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><b>Liebster rules...</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Learning more about each other is the name of the game. The Liebster blog award rules are as follows:</span></div>
<ol style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 24px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 30px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; line-height: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Post 11 random facts about yourself.</span></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Answer 11 questions from your nominator.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nominate 11 other blogs with under 200 followers and ask them 11 questions.</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>11 Random Facts About Me</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<ol>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I like odd numbers. A lot. Whenever I pump gas I have to stop pumping at an odd number, like $33.03. Oh, I guess I also like the number three. </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">My favorite time of day is twilight or just before, right when the evening starts to get a little bit cooler. Everything looks magical at this time of day.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I really enjoy dining outside whenever the weather is warm enough and not too humid.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I am <a href="http://thebrightsideaccordingtolaura.blogspot.com/2012/09/homean-unfamiliar-road.html">in love with the Pacific Northwest</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I am a die-hard proud Texan and love all things Texas, including: bluebonnets, country music, boots, the rodeo, the Lone Star flag, Shiner beer, BBQ, and the Alamo.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">Even though it's difficult for me to choose, I think my favorite season is fall. No, summer...no, fall. It<span style="font-family: inherit;">'s definitely fall. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My first language was Spa</span>nish and I did not learn English fluently until I was five years old.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">The sweetest voice I've ever heard comes out of the mouth of <a href="http://www.amoslee.com/">Amos Lee</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I truly enjoy buying creative and thoughtful gifts for people more than I enjoy receiving them.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">My favorite alcoholic beverages include: microbrews, red wine (Malbec), and anything with gin.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">I cannot see myself <b>not</b> working for social justice, specifically education. </span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<b style="color: orange; line-height: 24px;">11 Questions Posed by Nominator</b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<ol style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 24px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 30px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; line-height: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Why did you start blogging? </b>I started blogging (the first time) when I was a sophomore in college because my good friend told me I should spread my positivity. The name came from how many times I said "on the bright side" to others. I stopped blogging, not knowing much about it short after my junior year and not sure of what direction I wanted my blog to take. After a life-changing year post-graduation I returned to the blog world and have been back ever since.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>Describe yourself in two words. </b>Silver Lining ;)</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s your all time favorite tv show? </b>Can I have four? <i>Friends, Grey's Anatomy, The Wonder Years, and Gilmore Girls.</i></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s one quirky thing about yourself? </b>Everything about me is quirky (right, Margarew?). I like leaving notes on my receipts for waiters and waitresses at restaurants, even if it's simply a handwritten <i>thank you</i>.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s your biggest inspiration? </b>Currently, my students, and all who have experienced and/or are currently experiencing injustices in our country.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>Name three places you’d like to travel to? </b>In the United States: Oregon, Maine, and Alaska. In the World: Argentina, Ireland, and Morocco. But really I would love to go to all seven continents.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>Have you ever sky dived? Would you? </b>I have never sky dived nor do I have the desire to do so. I feel like this is that one question that defines whether I am "cool, hip, or happening" lol. Sorry I'm not sorry.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s your favorite quality about yourself? </b>I attempt to be humble, inspirational to others, and empathetic.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s your favorite social media tool/network? </b>It's a tie between Twitter and the Instagram. Probably Twitter, though.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>If you won a million dollars, what would you do with it? </b>I wish I had a moving and monumental answer to this, but I would have to do a lot of thinking. I would definitely hire a lawyer first. Then, I would pay off my graduate school. After this is taken care of I would expect myself to do only good and necessary things with the money.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>What’s your all time favorite meal? </b>Food is my <u>favorite</u> thing. I enjoy a good meal and this is so difficult to decide. My favorite meal would definitely include seafood (fish, scallops, crab cakes), a twice baked potato, an amazing salad, a glass of wine, and plain cheesecake with strawberries for dessert. </span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>My 11 Liebster Award Nominations</b></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://lisaveephoto.blogspot.com/">Lisa Lupo Photography</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://leighannewinger.blogspot.com/">Musings From the Law</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://laurenstilz.blogspot.com/">Lauren Stilz</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://wishloveoneveryone.blogspot.com/">The Forever Optimist</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://whaleyoubemyfriend.wordpress.com/">Whale You Be My Friend </a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://easymeanssimple.wordpress.com/">Easy Means Simple</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://amarettesabenteuer.wordpress.com/">Amarette's Abenteuer</a> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://yoursuperawesomelife.com/">Your Super Awesome Life</a> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://takingbackmytwenties.com/">Taking Back My Twenties</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://katyloves.com/">Katy Loves</a></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.writeslikeagirlblog.com/">writes like a girl</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 24px;"><b><span style="color: orange;">11 Questions For Nominated Bloggers</span></b></span></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">What is your favorite season?</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">Who was your first concert?</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">What is your go-to Karaoke song?</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 24px;">What is your favorite quote and why?</span></li>
<li>What is your favorite blog post and give us the link to it?</li>
<li>Who or what inspires you?</li>
<li>What is one thing you cannot do without in the morning?</li>
<li>When are you at your happiest? </li>
<li>List three strengths and three weaknesses about yourself.</li>
<li>What is your all-time favorite song?</li>
<li>What are three blogs you read regularly?</li>
</ol>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i>Enjoy. If you're a reader, feel free to answer the questions above in a comment.</i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-64104677466653600792013-03-16T18:37:00.001-05:002013-03-16T18:37:22.486-05:00Whaley // Solidarity // Intentions<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jm56mEMsIk/UUT-r9x_aJI/AAAAAAAABz0/tRBzmDYIvq4/s1600/Photo+Mar+16,+5+38+36+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jm56mEMsIk/UUT-r9x_aJI/AAAAAAAABz0/tRBzmDYIvq4/s400/Photo+Mar+16,+5+38+36+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite spot these days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Let's talk about how much time I have spent on my front porch since 3:30pm yesterday, or rather since this past week. My front porch has become a place of solidarity for me. A place for deep thoughts, for rejuvenation after a long day at work, for remembering to enjoy the simple things, the small things, the little pleasures that a stressful and hectic job can make you take for granted. I will miss this Louisiana town so much in a few months. This chapter of my life is ending and a new one is beginning in less than six months. Wherever I go, this front porch will be reminisced. <br />
<br />
<b><i>I would just like to preface this post by saying that my intentions are not to devalue men or women in their mid-twenties to early thirties, but to simply express some current observations and thoughts. </i></b><br />
<br />
Lately my girlfriends and I have been discussing relationships, both old and current and I feel that many women in their twenties feel jaded towards men. I cannot speak for men, maybe they too feel jaded towards women. I have taken a slight noticing that many men do not seem to mature or as we, the women say, "grow up." I would hate to say this is only one gender, I am just speaking from a woman's point of view. It could possibly be that there are two extremes of people once we reach a certain post-adolescent age. One group being the group of individuals with mature thoughts, those that understand and acknowledge how to interact with the opposite sex fully. Courtship, dating, and not afraid of being "real" with other people. Providing clarity, communicating, and being courteous. If you are not interested in talking to someone anymore, tell them that. If you are not interested in dating someone, communicate that. If you are interested in someone, communicate your intentions to them. As humans, we (both sexes), want to understand the causes and effects of our interpersonal relationships. It is becoming more and more socially acceptable to simply allow ourselves to be ignored and to accept that and with time to let it go. I think this stems from a fear of rejection, both of rejecting someone else or of being the receiver of rejection. Easier said than done, right?<br />
<br />
<b><i>Thoughts on the above? </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
On a less serious note, here are some happenings from my week:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsbSi-ptrwk/UUT-jpvr8_I/AAAAAAAABzQ/VlCLYNRMTHA/s1600/Photo+Mar+12,+8+52+51+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsbSi-ptrwk/UUT-jpvr8_I/AAAAAAAABzQ/VlCLYNRMTHA/s400/Photo+Mar+12,+8+52+51+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beer on a Tuesday Night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RBtZJZpb-Dc/UUT-mctZNoI/AAAAAAAABzY/0OiYP3anJYI/s1600/Photo+Mar+13,+8+22+48+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RBtZJZpb-Dc/UUT-mctZNoI/AAAAAAAABzY/0OiYP3anJYI/s400/Photo+Mar+13,+8+22+48+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wine Down Wednesdays </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tYrAdgHivc/UUT-l53crPI/AAAAAAAABzg/L9rvc4tEjA0/s1600/Photo+Mar+14,+6+27+58+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tYrAdgHivc/UUT-l53crPI/AAAAAAAABzg/L9rvc4tEjA0/s400/Photo+Mar+14,+6+27+58+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Senior Class Ring Ceremony! Class of 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-inN48ZOyWFU/UUT-rnGfU3I/AAAAAAAABzw/-HMLD-Ect3c/s1600/Photo+Mar+16,+3+28+02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-inN48ZOyWFU/UUT-rnGfU3I/AAAAAAAABzw/-HMLD-Ect3c/s400/Photo+Mar+16,+3+28+02+PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating like a true Louisiana girl, with the right reading material ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you are one of my close friends, you may be receiving the post card below :)<br />
<b>I <u>love</u> whales.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkEZKqMW_VU/UUT-umWAqnI/AAAAAAAAB0I/pO7g3hDRYoI/s1600/Photo+Mar+16,+5+40+49+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkEZKqMW_VU/UUT-umWAqnI/AAAAAAAAB0I/pO7g3hDRYoI/s400/Photo+Mar+16,+5+40+49+PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-79131915552789219272013-03-12T19:00:00.001-05:002013-03-12T19:00:09.920-05:00Thoughts From My Porch...I never thought I would get so attached to the state of Louisiana the last couple of months being here. Today I felt so at home in my life here. I started to think about the transition I will very likely be experiencing next fall. The last transition in my life was here to Louisiana and it was the most difficult I have experienced yet. Now, I feel so at home here, I feel attached to this place. I feel protective of it, of its people, of its culture, of its education. I never thought that I'd find myself saying how I would be interested in coming back to Louisiana one day to establish an organization and/or work for one that aligns with my professional values and life goals (what?!) Crazy, huh?<br />
<br />
May of last year I remember how I didn't even look back as I left the state for Texas. Texas is not on my mind these days. As a loyal Texan, I do love my home state, but I'm pretty good with not going back there to live and establish myself for a good while. May of this year, I am starting to have uneasy feelings about how I will handle leaving. Many tears, many memories, it will surely be difficult. I cannot say goodbye, it will be a see you later. <br />
<br />
This evening, I contemplate my graduate school decision. I have been honored to receive a very legitimate scholarship to <a href="http://washu.edu/">WashU</a>. This scholarship is placing a heavy weight on my pro list and leaving University of Washington in Seattle a bit behind. I am highly impressed with WashU's marketing, University of Washington simply seems to care about whether I send them a check with my deposit to secure my place. I have received one measly letter from Seattle, nothing impressive, with an envelope to submit my deposit. No welcome packet, no information about the school of social work, no post card, that's it. Depressing, and not very convincing? You are telling me this is a top program? SHOW ME! I am deceived. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://wustl.edu/assets/images/pic-BuschStadium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://wustl.edu/assets/images/pic-BuschStadium.png" width="285" /></a></div>
On the bright side, I have completed my FAFSA (phew) and am awaiting to find out what the rest of my financial packages look like for both schools before making a final decision. But, as of right now, St. Louie is lookin' pretty good. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://wustl.edu/assets/images/pic-Arch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://wustl.edu/assets/images/pic-Arch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Current favorite things:<br />
- Sitting on my porch in the cool and warm evenings until the sun goes down<br />
- Yoga<br />
- Eating Grapefruits<br />
- Afternoon coffee<br />
- Country music<br />
<br />
<b><i>What's your vote for me, WashU or Seattle? Explain your answer and support with evidence. </i></b><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-772791620698056911.post-417689594258954472013-03-06T21:59:00.000-06:002013-03-06T22:02:39.448-06:00Perseverance: We Never Give UpI have one thing in mind right now: the school visit I attended. One word: <i style="font-weight: bold;">incredible</i>. It was an amazing visit. Pretty sure my mouth was open a lot of the time from pure shock. What is outstanding to me is that the students we teach, whether in rural Louisiana or an urban city like New Orleans are one and the same. At the end of the day they are teenagers, some with different backgrounds than others, but overall eager to please and with a desire to feel successful. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdVik9XZsaE/UTU3Szqp6oI/AAAAAAAAByI/1FxMaKR4cb8/s1600/Photo+Mar+04,+10+26+02+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdVik9XZsaE/UTU3Szqp6oI/AAAAAAAAByI/1FxMaKR4cb8/s400/Photo+Mar+04,+10+26+02+AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znsri9CSD1g/UTU3UsGqVoI/AAAAAAAAByc/Gb84hwOmemY/s1600/Photo+Mar+04,+10+26+09+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znsri9CSD1g/UTU3UsGqVoI/AAAAAAAAByc/Gb84hwOmemY/s400/Photo+Mar+04,+10+26+09+AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oEgkNjqWA9I/UTU3Vk13JxI/AAAAAAAAByo/2Q6LExUsPlc/s1600/Photo+Mar+04,+7+36+17+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oEgkNjqWA9I/UTU3Vk13JxI/AAAAAAAAByo/2Q6LExUsPlc/s400/Photo+Mar+04,+7+36+17+AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.sciacademy.org/">Sci Academy</a> is the name of the school. It is a part of <a href="http://www.collegiateacademies.org/">Collegiate Academies</a>, a group of three charter schools that only serve students in 9-12 grades. They run under the motto that proves it is never too late to learn. I <b><i>love</i> </b>this as a someone who believes in the closing of the achievement gap in our country with educational reform and better functioning schools led by better leaders. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Collegiate Academies' CEO, Ben Marcovitz, a graduate of Harvard and Yale believes that students can achieve at any level. The first cohort of students who went in as ninth graders had a percentage of 92% that were accepted to college at the time of graduation. The school runs under a <i>very</i> positive environment, with core values that resonate through the walls of the school and through every classroom. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">"For decades, New Orleans failed its students. The year before Hurricane Katrina, 95 percent of the students fell below basic proficiency in English and math. The district was $300 million in debt, and corruption was so rife that the FBI set up a field office in its headquarters. The president of the Orleans Parish School Board has gone to prison on a bribery conviction, one of 24 school leaders to be indicted." (<a href="http://www.thedaily.com/page/2011/11/26/112611-news-new-orleans-day-one-1-5">Source</a>)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">This school gives me hope for the future of education suffering in this nation. I want there to be more schools like this. I want my students to have the opportunity to achieve such as the students at schools like Sci Academy. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">This visit to this charter school has sparked something inside of me. I want to spread schools like this to Avoyelles Parish and to other districts where students do not have the opportunity to succeed to their full capacity. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">Check out an amazing snippet of insight into what I saw on Monday </span></span><a href="http://www.thedaily.com/page/2011/11/26/112611-news-new-orleans-day-one-1-5">http://www.thedaily.com/page/2011/11/26/112611-news-new-orleans-day-one-1-5</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><i>Thoughts? </i></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0