One Year Short Of 30

Aren't birthdays such a funny thing? Every year I become less excited about getting older, and more excited about figuring out how to look younger, feel my best, and be at my healthiest. Every year comes with a set of challenges and learning experiences that never cease to amaze me. This year was an interesting one for sure. I got engaged, switched careers, made the cover of a magazine, and maintained this blog like I always do. I am so lucky to have this online journal of sorts to keep for years to come.

One thing that I thought about yesterday that made me sad was the fact that I don't really write anymore. Besides the occasional outfit post, I feel like my blog has become less about my personal life, and more of a "business" if you will. Sitting down to write this post seemed a bit odd, because it's been a long time since I really shared some personal feelings on here. It's not on purpose either, life just gets busy, and sometimes I honestly don't feel like I have time to think, let alone write. As I sit here and write this while I sniffle and sneeze, I can't complain at all, because at this moment, I am finally feeling relaxed!

So this year, my post will be a little bit different. Every year I do a post about what I have learned (Last year's post), or what I know thus far. This year will be less outlined, and more of me just thinking through typing. 

Every year I find myself learning so many different things that are important to me, and I think the most important thing I have learned is that it's SO incredibly necessary to surround yourself with the greatest of people. I have lost people that I thought would always be here, and although it saddens me, it also makes me realize that maybe they just weren't meant to be there in the first place. Finding yourself, and letting go of things that don't benefit you anymore, is simply part of the process. I think one of the most important things I have come to realize this year is that my friends and family mean so much to me, they are the true guiding light of everything that I am, and I can't wait to grow older with all of them in my life.

I have also learned, that most of the little bullshit that bothers us in life simply, does not matter. What matters is waking up and feeling like you're being the best you can be. Whatever that means to you, just be it. You're waking up knowing you're doing what you want to do, and making yourself proud-that's what matters. We all have different roads to travel, and at the end of the day it doesn't matter which way you go, as long as you're happy and as long as you're a good person, good things will come. I truly believe that we all get what we put out, and positive always attracts positive.

I tend to be really hard on myself by nature, and this year has been nothing different. I am a perfectionist who strives to succeed in everything that I do, and this can be both a blessing a curse. I have also learned that it's important to embrace who YOU are. The good, the bad, the ugly, the pretty, the crazy, it's all apart of you, and it all needs lovin- so love yourself, because no one is going to do it for you.

So this year, I am focusing on the things I am grateful for, and trying to let go of the things that don't help me grow. I find my happiness in the little things nowadays. Going on dates with Ryan, photography, snuggling with Ollie, spending time with my family, watching movies over and over, cooking dinner, and most importantly, making time for this little blog that has brought me so much love. Although I am struggling with the thought of getting older, I do love my birthday, and I love my life at this present moment. 

The possibilities in life are endless and I can't wait to see what the future holds for me. Thank you to everyone who reads this blog, and to all of those who have supported me through every endeavor- big or small. This blog is a huge part of who I am , and the past five years wouldn't have been the same without this creative outlet in my life.

Here's to 29! Let's kick some serious ass!

What I Know At 28 : A Birthday Note

Every year I write a meaningful post about things I have learned that have taught me different lessons in life. Every year I plan for this post, as it is my favorite post to write. This year, I found myself stressing out and deleting everything I had previously written. It's the morning of my birthday, and here I am, thinking and stressing about what to write. 

Instead of thinking, I am just going to wing it, and hope it all makes sense. So here it is, what I have learned in my 28 years on this earth. The good, the bad, the pretty & ugly. If you want to view my posts from previous years, here they are. December 2013, December 2012.

Here goes nothing....

When matters of the heart are concerned, never settle. If you have questions or concerns that aren't addressed then you need to find those answers for yourself.

There will be times in life when everything seems to crumble around you. When getting out of bed is questionable and you just want to give up on everything & everyone. My advice? Keep going, keep pushing through. You have to show up. No one is going to do it for you.

Everyone that comes into your life has a lesson to teach you. I view everyone as a teacher. People come in and out for reasons, and sometimes those reasons are unknown, trust that the universe has a plan. 

As hard as you try, and as nice as you are sometimes people just don't like you. And it just is what it is. You can be the best/nicest person in the whole world, and it still wouldn't matter. Don't blame yourself and always continue to be kind. Some people are just never pleased and that has more to do with them, and less  to do with you.

If your friends or family ever need you. Just be there. Even if you have to sit together in silence, just be there. It means more to them than you will ever know. 

If a guy is into you, he will chase you. Period end of story. He will put in effort if he wants to be in your life. Same goes for any other type of relationship. 

Loneliness builds character. It sucks and hurts, but it molds you to be confident.

Love shouldn't be hard. Of course relationships are "work" but the fundamentals should be there. You should never feel like you can't express yourself or be who you are. You should feel like the best version of yourself when you are with that person. Relationships don't define us, but they should bring out the best in us. When you find the right person you feel it in your bones. You can show them the ugliest parts of you and know that they'll love you regardless. Sometimes love isn't rainbows and butterflies, and that's okay. There are no rules.

You never know what anyone is going through, so treat everyone with kindness and respect. Don't judge anybody.

Appreciate your parents. They are so important , and you'll never realize it until you get older. Those people have been through it all with you. They know who you are inside and out and care about you more than they could ever explain. These two people will ultimately be the people who guide you through your troubles, hug you during your successes and will forever have your back no matter what you do. I am so thankful to have two amazing human beings in my life who continue to be my role models.

Forgiveness doesn't make you weak, in fact I think it makes you stronger.

Life has no blueprint. People get married early, some late and some don't get married at all. Some people have 10 kids, and some have 1. Some people travel the world while others don't leave the state. Don't tell anyone how to live their lives, simply live yours.We all have different paths and no one thinks the same. Always keep an open mind.

A relationship without chemistry is not a relationship at all. If you have to ask yourself whether or not you have chemistry, then you probably don't.

What you put into this world is what you will get in return. Do your best, try your hardest and always show the people in your life how much you care about them. Life is so short, and everything is a blessing. The sooner you realize this the sooner you will wake up feeling like the world is at your fingertips.

Do what you love and the rest will follow. If you put your heart into something, it will pay off.

What I Know At 27 : A Birthday Note

Last year I wrote this post, about things I knew at 26...and a year later , here I am wanting to share more personal life knowledge, because frankly...that's what I love. I love learning and most of all I love learning through life experiences, and reading about other people's experiences. I must say out of all my years on this earth, this year has been the most life changing, and it definitely has taught me so much about myself. So without further adieu, here is what I know at 27.

When you're young you can't wait to get older, and the older you get you wish you were young. Unfortunately life passes you by pretty quickly, so it's important to enjoy every minute you have.

A few things in life always make me emotional. Pachelbel's Cannon (the wedding song-gives me goosebumps every single time) and those Sarah Mclacklan's animal cruelty commercials. (The dogs look SO sad).

You'll never be truly happy if you constantly look for it. Happiness comes from you, and grows with you. It doesn't just happen after certain situations or after you buy certain things. This also goes hand in hand with loving someone else. If you don't love yourself, it's impossible to love another.

What we think of as mistakes can usually be huge life lessons. I try not to think of anything as a mistake anymore, but a lesson that will help me avoid further issues down the line. You live, learn and grow. 

Needing alone time every once in a while is imperative for everyone. Enjoy your solitude and use it to relax your mind. 

You are a combination of the five people you spend the most time with. Pick who you surround yourself with wisely.

Focus your energy on good things in life, and you will see that life will seem a lot more positive that way.

Change only takes place if someone is willing to accept it. You can't change anybody, and you have to either accept people for who they are, or keep it moving.

Working out and treating your body right is extremely important. You're all you've got and you need to last a while. Eat well, exercise regularly, and remember that only feel as good as you allow yourself to feel.

Music is the cheapest cure to life's problems. Utilize appropriately. 

True friends will understand when life gets busy and you disappear. Those same friends also know when you need them, and they're there in a heartbeat.

Just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other, and just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do. 

You never know what struggles someone is facing. Be nice to people. Hold the door for them. Ask them how their day is going. And most of all, be caring and understanding of people's troubles. Sometimes all it takes is someone listening to make someone's day better. 

Don't settle with ordinary. Be your weirdo self and people will love it. And if they don't, who cares.

Details: Sweater / Urban Outfitters , Pants & Booties // Courtesy of Lulus

Necklace // Courtesy of Chicnova

This Is What I Know At 26.

Today I turn 26 years of age. I wanted to write some things that I thought would be meaningful. Like most things in my life I have reflected upon my years on this earth, and wanted to come up with some sort of defining post that covers all the bases. I think it's safe to say that none of us plan where we will end up at any period of time, and even if you try to plan it, usually things go awry. Thus, another lesson learned...stop planning. I am not sure where I thought I would be in this moment. Regardless of what I thought, I am here now, and now is good. Life is pleasant, and I am blessed to be surrounded by wonderful human beings who love and care about me. That, after all is what counts right?

Originally I planned on a 26 before 26 post, but honestly I read through my last year's post, and I hardly did anything on the list...So why waste my time making lists of things I won't follow through with? This is what I know at 26. Things about myself. And things about life.

Nothing is better than the beginning of falling in love with someone. Everything they do is so new, and breathtaking. You'll never smile so big, or feel that initial reaction ever again. There's so much beauty and innocence in getting to know someone. A fresh start is a beautiful thing.


There are a few things that make me feel better than having a great night out, looking at my friends and knowing they're having just as much fun as I am. Then waking up the next morning and laughing about all the ridiculous things that happened, and reliving it all over again.


As quickly as someone can bring you up, they can tear you down just as fast. Gravity can suck sometimes.


Forgive people...It's easier than holding grudges. People will disappoint you, and you'll disappoint people. We're all human.


Happiness cannot be bought. You can't find it somewhere. It won't change with your waist size or your hair color. It's something that is inside of you and you just need to figure out where it's been all along. 

Honest and open communication is key in every relationship you have. The truth can hurt, but it always sounds better.

It is important to be kind to people. Holding the door for them, saying please, thank you and have a good day. You never know how awful of a day someone may be having, and all it takes is one small act of kindness to make them smile.


Being an adult means you can have ice cream and pancakes for dinner...isn't that awesome?


Comparing yourself to others is only cutting yourself short, use that energy on something productive.


Don't ever feel bad about expecting things. You deserve all of it..Every little thing and more.



Don't stay in anything if you're not 100% committed or happy. This could be a relationship, a job, a major...anything. Don't settle because you're too lazy or scared of change. You'll regret it.

Days off should be spent exploring, laughing, eating...and lots of snuggling.


Allow the past to bring you forward. You have the perfect stepping stone. No need to make the same mistakes.


Always remember...there's someone out there that thinks you're the greatest thing since sliced bread. 

Being alone can be one of the best and worst times of your life. Embrace your alone time. Learn about yourself, and grow. Don't underestimate the power you possess as an individual, believe that you can be self reliant, and you will.


outfit details: Dress // courtesy of Lulu's , Tights // Courtesy of WLC , Booties // Target , Socks & Bowler Hat & Belt // UO

Birthday Wishlist

Canon 5d Mark III  // Need I say more? This camera is an a blogger's (or anyone for that matter) dream. I got the opportunity to use one and I fell in love with it. Nothing comes out more crisp. When I said dream , I meant it..this thing is unreal. 

Bamboo Tablet // Handwriting and arrow drawing comes easy with this bad boy. I have wanted one for a while now, may be time to take the plunge. 

Birdie Forever Sweater & Navajo Sweater // I am a sweater obsessed little woman. In the winter it's all I want to wear. Something big and comfy, and soft is perfect.

Green Coat // I have wanted a dark green coat forever. I think I need one to match my red one. Then I can really be in the Christmas spirit.

Arrows used in graphic from-- Hello Vanny

I hope you guys have an amazing weekend. I leave today for Lake George and couldn't be happier to breathe in some fresh air and enjoy a relaxing getaway for a few days.

Happy Birthday Little Blog!

So happy to wish my little blog a happy 2nd birthday. I started this blog because I was unemployed and interested in fashion, and I never thought it would be a huge part of my life the way it is now. I never could have imagined that I would make friends through this blog, bridge connections with companies I love, but most of all I never thought I would be able to be so open about my life to complete strangers. It still baffles me, but it's become a very big part of who I am, and I love the relationships I have made with people through blogging. I was never one of those people who thought you could make friends on the internet, I actually thought it was strange. I love being able to connect with people on a different level, be able to express myself creatively, have others enjoy it, and read it. For the people who read and enjoy my blog, I thank you for believing in my dream. It means more than you know. I have an awesome giveaway coming up later, so stay tuned, and thanks again for being the best readers in the whole entire universe.