Little Reminders: What's Wrong is Wrong

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In any argument, take ownership in the role you play. Even you can be wrong, sometimes.

Tea Facts

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Because in 2012, I'm vowing to slow down on the coffee. I'm at the point where I can drink a cup of coffee before bed, and still sleep through the night. There is no way that can be healthy. Not to mention, tea is way cheaper!

Tea facts found here

1. Tea contains antioxidants. Like the Rust-Oleum paint that keeps your outdoor furniture from rusting, tea’s antioxidants protect your body from the ravages of aging and the effects of pollution.

2. Tea has less caffeine than coffee. Coffee usually has two to three times the caffeine of tea (unless you’re a fan of Morning Thunder, which combines caffeine with mate, an herb that acts like caffeine in our body). An eight-ounce cup of coffee contains around 135 mg caffeine; tea contains only 30 to 40 mg per cup. If drinking coffee gives you the jitters, causes indigestion or headaches or interferes with sleep — switch to tea.

3. Tea may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.Unwanted blood clots formed from cholesterol and blood platelets cause heart attack and stroke. Drinking tea may help keep your arteries smooth and clog-free, the same way a drain keeps your bathroom pipes clear. A 5.6-year study from the Netherlands found a 70 percent lower risk of fatal heart attack in people who drank at least two to three cups of black tea daily compared to non-tea drinkers.

4. Tea protects your bones. It’s not just the milk added to tea that builds strong bones. One study that compared tea drinkers with non-drinkers, found that people who drank tea for 10 or more years had the strongest bones, even after adjusting for age, body weight, exercise, smoking and other risk factors. The authors suggest that this may be the work of tea’s many beneficial phytochemicals.

Little Reminders: Ever Thine, Ever Mine, Ever Ours

20 BY Twenty

A few days ago, I was thinking to to myself and posed myself this question: What will I be doing when I'm 20? For a second I got scared, because I actually couldn't picture myself being 20 years old. It seems like an eternity from now, but in reality, its a year and 3 months away. Whoa. So I decided to make a list of 20 things I want to do by my 20th birthday: March 18th, 2013, Here it goes.

1. START MY BOOK
2. GUEST BLOG FOR A KNOWN BLOG
3. RESEARCH AND PLAN OUT MY NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION
4. LAUNCH A PROFESSIONAL WEBSITE
5. BECOME COMPLETELY FLUENT IN SPANISH
6. LEARN THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA
7. INTERN AT A WELL KNOWN PR/COMMUNICATIONS FIRM
8. BECOME AN ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT PROWL
9. SAVE 10% OF ANY ACRUED STUDENT LOANS - DON’T TOUCH IT!
10. HAVE MY OWN PLACE (ON OR OFF CAMPUS)

Little Reminders: Be Somebody

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As Long As Theres Christmas...

One of my favorite Christmas songs to date. Such a great message, not to mention, it's Disney! Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to everyone! Spending the holiday with my family and friends, loving every second of it.

VIDEO: Tim & Audrey Meme Proposal

I know I'm too much of a hopeless romantic for my own good, but this is too cute. Not going to lie, almost cried when I watched it.

For close ups of all the pictures plus more on Audrey's reaction, check out her blog.

My Night at the Nutcracker

After more than 18 years of waiting, Thursday night I finally got to see the Nutcracker. We went to the Academy of Music in Philadelphia, and I loved every second of it. Not sure if my younger sister enjoyed it as much as I did (but then again, I've been obsessing over this ballet for 18 years!), but I know she enjoyed the trip to the city. My favorite dance was in Act II, the Sugarplum fairy and her cavalier. Love love loved it! After the show, we went to an Ihop a few blocks over to have breakfast for dinner. Nothing like hot pancakes and hash browns after a night at the ballet.

Being back in Philly, even just for a few hours, made me realize how much I love living there. I'm definitely going to try and do a little more exploring next semester! It's my goal to get to know this city inside and out; because I plan on being there fore a while.

Read more for more photos from the playbill.

Little Reminders: Dress Up Today

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Even though getting up a 5am to be to work by 6:15am is the last thing I want to do, I'll still be rocking a smile today. It's going to be a good day because I want it to be a good day. 

Take Ten: Let It Out & Let It Go

Stress is inevitable, but it is manageable. For some reason, being "home" on break is just as stressful, if not more stressful, than being at school. Quite frankly, I'd rather be at school. Things seem to be adding up quicker than I can subtract them. No matter how many positive reinforcements I arm myself with, sometimes I just have to break down. Breaking down is okay, it's a part of life. The important thing is that you get back up. Breaking down isn't dangerous, staying down is. So, I take ten. Ten minutes: 9 to break down, and 1 to pull it together. Thats all you need; ten.

Minutes 1-4: Let it out - Cry, throw a temper tamtrim if you have to. Squeeze a pillow, get hysterical, or sit in silence. Do whatever, but you only have 4 minutes.

Minutes 5-9: Dig it Up - Chances are the thing you're breaking down about now is based on something you've been breaking down about for a while. Take this time to find the root; why do I feel this way? What's triggering this? What is STILL bothering me? Meditate on this, cry over it, just dig it up, and let it out. You have 4 minutes.

Minute 9-10: Let It Go - It's out now. You got emotional over it, acknowledged everything, and now it's time to move on. Make a mental list of everything you just broke down over. Know what makes you tick. And then make a conscious decision to move on from it. Don't let the same thing consume you for longer than these ten minutes.

The most important thing about managing stress is just that, managing it. Take control over your problems so that you can have control over your life. You shouldn't be constantly walking around in a state of despair; that's the definition of a miserable person. Keep your head up, stay positive, and when all else fails, just take ten.

Little Reminders: Ask Yourself One Question...

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Don't sweat the small stuff.

A Days Worth of Revelations

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Random revelations I had today while working two different jobs, with no down time in between.

One: There is a fine line between being understanding and making excuses for others. While everyone should be understanding, there is never room to make excuses for the negligent behavior of others.

Two: I love college. I love the freedom, independence, and responsibility of college. I complain a lot about the stress is brings, but it will all be worth it.

Three: If I play my cards right, I will never have to work at a job I don't love ever again.

Four: My best friend, is the best.

Five: I cannot expect people to read my mind. If I want something from someone, I have to ask for it. Simple as that.

Tonight, The Nutcracker!

I've wanted to see The Nutcracker since I was little, and Thursday night I will finally the chance! I don't even remember talking about wanting to see it to anyone. But last month, a very good friend surprised me with tickets. She even got a ticket for my younger sister, who really needs a fun night out. I can't wait! Hopefully this will get me more into the Christmas spirit. The big day is on sunday but it still feels like December 1st to me.

VIDEO: Lace Front PSA

Saw this and could not stop laughing! Everyone knows, I'm pretty much as anti-lace front and as pro natural hair as they come. But no matter what your hair preferences are, this video is pretty funny!

Hey Now, Hey Now!

My boyfriends back! MJ came back yesterday. We were going to pick him up from the airport, but he surprised us before we had the chance! I'm so glad to have him back for the next few weeks. His return was the perfect holiday gift for me!

Winter break is going to be fabulous.

Little Reminders: Small Problems, Bigger Blessings.

VIDEO: Would Anyone Notice?

Saw this video when I was browsing Karla's blog, and I could not believe this. Found dead after three years, with the TV still on? Unbelievable. Really makes you think, what mark will you leave behind? If this were you, would anyone notice you were missing? I have to see the film!

One Down, Seven to Go

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Today, around 9 am, I officially finished my first semester of college. While ending it all with an 8 am Spanish final was less than ideal, I couldn't be happier it's over. And, if my calculations are correct (which they most likely AREN'T because I'm a PR major, and we don't do math), I should have somewhere between a 3.54-3.6 GPA. Which for a first semester freshman, isn't bad at all. While it may not be the 3.8 I was striving for, I know I worked for it, and I'm proud of it. I learned a lot this semester, in and out of the classroom (excuse the cliche). There were a lot of high ups, and some really low downs, but I wouldn't trade a moment of it for anything.

Everyone told me I would get to know myself better once I left for college, but truthfully, that's an understatement. For starters, I learned just how OCD I am. I have never made more organized to-do list, color coded calendars, or written more post-it notes in my entire life. If it's not written down, it's almost as if it isn't real to me. I type notes in class, but when i study I have to write them out. I thought I was a writer in the sense that I enjoyed writing. Turns out, I'm a writer, meaning one who has to write. I'm excited to see where that will take me.

Another thing I learned is that I have no problem being a loner. Don't get me wrong, I have met some truly fabulous people this semester who I love and love to be around; but I'm just as happy standing alone as I am in a crowd. I watched so many friendships, relationships, and acquaintanceships fall apart this semester. Spending time alone give you a chance to reflect on who you surround yourself with, and how often. It makes a difference. A big one.

Overall, this semester was good for me and to me. It was a crash course in Growing Up 101 for sure. But if I can get through my first semester, I know I can make it through 7 more!  

Little Reminders: Practice What You Preach

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Because actions speak louder than words.

Love and Relationship Ethos: Double Standards

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When we think double standards, a few things instantly come to mind. Like if a girl dates numerous guys she's "fast", but if a guy dates numerous girls he's "the man." But these aren't the double standards I'm talking about. I'm talking about those hidden double standards that exist in relationships. The ones that everyone knows are there, but no one ever talks about; especially us ladies! Thats right, girls are as much to blame for these double standards as guys are for the more universal ones.

For example: the text me first rule. Ask any girl why she's offended that a guy she's dating/seeing/'talking to' hasn't texted or called her and you generally get the same lame answer. If he's thinking about me, he should text me first. Sorry, wrong. Wrong on so many different levels. Despite their savage reputations, guys are still humans. Meaning, the same way a girl wants to know her guy is thinking about her, he wants to know his girl is thinking about him. Would it kill you to send a good morning text every once in a while? Or, call me crazy, a text to say 'I was just thinking about you.' Girls cry and pout about how relationships are give and take, yet they are quick to draw lines about who gives what. If chivalry is dead, women are just as much to blame as men! (Yes, I actually just went there).

My Study Playlist

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The only thing keeping me sane during finals week is strong coffee and good music. I've been bumping the same songs since last week. Hopefully they help me end this semester with A's and a glorious GPA. 

Songs are in no particular order; except for Moves Like Jagar. That song HAD to be first!

1. Moves Like Jagar- Maroon 5
2. Rolling In The Deep- Adele
3. Firework- Katy Perry
4. For The First Time- The Script
5. Sandcastle Disco- Solange
6. Yeah I Know- Ciara
7. Solider- Destiny's Child
8. Party- Beyonce feat Andre 3000
9. Love On Top- Beyonce
10. Superwoman- Alicia Keys

And when all else fails, there's always Pandora.

Miguel Endara and 3.2 Million Dots

Sometimes I get so caught up in the now, I forget about the end I'm trying to reach. If we run a race visioning the race and not the finish line, it becomes that much harder to come in first. This video shows artist Miguel Endara creating his piece "Hero." It took 3.2 million dots and over 200 ours to complete. He may have started off with a few little dots, but because he was able to focus on his end result, he was able to create something magnificent. 

VIDEO: Your Boyfriend Doesn't Like Natural Hair?

I think a lot of girls worry about how their significant others will feel if they decide to make the transition from relaxed to natural hair. It feels good to know there are guys out there who are not only accepting; but also understanding and willing to do the research. No to mention, dude is hilarious!! 

Life Mantras

These past few weeks have been giving me hell. It seems like every step forward leads me to a fist, punching me backwards. So I thought the best way to combat that is to give these next few weeks Heaven. Here are some mantra's I'll be using to help me stay sane and positive and keep pushing. I refuse to fail; and I will finish what I started. Amen.

Yesterday I did, today I do, tomorrow I will.

This too, shall pass.

Do not dwell on things that do not deserve to be dwelled upon.

With sufficient thrust, pigs fly just fine.

Effort comes from muscles, not from nerves.

I must not fear, fear is a mind killer.

Can I Have My Lattee & Drink It Too?

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Is it really possible for me to travel the world, live in at least two foreign countries, become a published author, and have a world wind romance? I guess the better question is: can I do them al simultaneously? I know I'm good, but am I really that good?

I'm at a point in my life where I'm really starting to grasp how endless my possibilities are. If I want to spend a semester in London (which I will), it's doable. If I want to spend a summer in Paris (which I DO), that's also doable. I can apply for international internships, or spend whatever free time I can scrounge up (which admittedly isn't much) to write. I can do all of this, but at what cost? Can I maintain my relationship, which is so important to me, while I'm out conquering the world. If not, which am I willing to sacrifice? My boyfriend, my dreams, my mile long list of ambitions. None of the above.

I've been thinking about this a lot lately. Young adults spend so much time listening to older adults tell them to be patient and enjoy our youth. They are always so quick to tell us not to rush things, but now here I am, on my own, with a bunch of unanswerable questions. I may just be too OCD for life, but I need to know the whens, wheres, and hows of everything. It's just the way I am. So when is it the right time to sit down and figure of the logistics of your life? When are we required to have all our ducks in a row?

Little Reminders: Jimi Hendrix

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No Place Like SBucks For The Holidays

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"When we're together, snowmen come alive"

That was the caption on my Holiday lattee at Starbucks this evening. With this week being finals week, the added caffeine is essential to my diet. I wanted to try a new holiday flavor, but didn't know which one to try. The barista recommended I mix the two flavors I was torn between: The Egg Nog latte and the Caramel Brulée latte. I didn't even know I had the option to blend them! It was fantastic, I'll definitely be mixing other holiday flavors this season.

#MotivationMondays: Walking Alone

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Often times we stress when people, especially ones we care about, leave our lives. One thing I've learned is that not everyone is meant to be in your life forever. Some come for a season, and some for less time than that. Enjoy the lessons they bring and the memories made, but always remember standing alone is a valued trait.

Happy Monday.

Winter Wishlist 2011

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Just like every other broke college student there is truly only one thing on my Christmas list this year: Cash! USD if you need the specifics. Since I'm spending this Christmas season window shopping, I thought I'd share some things I've had my eye on.

Cheetah/Leopard Print Accessories and Footwear: Blame it on the jersey girl in me, but I adore all things cheetah/leopard print. I'm not bold enough to try and pull off a cheetah print pant or leopard top, but these little embellishments go a long way! I'd love to add the Cheetah print Ugg mini's to my Winter collection, and rock the leopard print Sperry's in the Spring/Fall.

Take The "S" Off My Chest, Please!

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Sitting here trying to trick my body into thinking that the temporary boost from this espresso is a sufficient substitute for my only getting two hours of sleep last night; I've finally decided that something has to give. I have so many incredible people in my life, and I'm having a really hard time accepting the fact that making each and every one of them happy all of the time just isn't possible. Unless I figure out some way to clone myself this weekend, I'm going to have to let down some of my favorite people. As bad as I feel about this, and as hard as I've tried to stretch myself to be able to do it all, I'm facing the facts and accepting that it's not my fault; I can't be everyone's superwoman.

I don't know when and how it happened, but somewhere down the line I became afraid of the word "no". I saw "no" as a one sided unfair deal: denying someone something that they really wanted or needed; letting down a loved one; disappointing someone who doesn't deserve to be disappointed. No meant bad and yes meant good, so I "yes-ed" myself until I couldn't yes anymore. And when it all came tumbling down and I had no more yeses to give, I didn't know what to do. So naturally, I blamed myself: my time management, my commitment to relationships, my everything. Wrong. 

Clean Out Your Closet

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Not your literal closet, (even though that one might need some organizing too!) I'm talking about your emotional and mental closet. That area of the brain (and heart) where you hold every word that was said, wrong that was done, and painful memory you can remember. It's time to pack it up, donate to goodwill and fill our closets with bigger and better things.

So often we allow our past to consume us, and rarely do we harp on positive memories. Every negative thought that you hold on to only takes up space that could be filled with good ones. And I hate to say it, but we girls are the worst with this. You know its true: you still have every love letter, picture, and souvenir even though all they remind you of are heartbreak and disappointment. It's time to let all of this go and move on, once and for all!

Make a list of everything, and don't be afraid to get personal, this is very personal. Write down everything you know you need to let go of: people, places, memories, regrets. Make a pact with yourself that you are going to leave these things in the past once and for all. Throw out his old jacket and the love letter he wrote you in 10th grade. Stop replaying the night she stood you up or talked about you behind your back. Leave it all behind. Tear up the list, burn it if you have to. Do whatever it takes for you to grasp the concept of moving on. Then make a new list. A list of all the great, positive things you want to do with your life. Your goals, ambitions, aspirations, and deepest desires. Live out the new list, make new memories, and enjoy the benefits of a clean closet: you can find everything, even yourself.

Live Positive.