Monday, March 30, 2015

When Did Prom Posals Become a Thing?

                                               My prom date and I circa 2012
Back  in 2012, I remember the excitement of prom. I remember being so happy that I was going with my best guy friend who I had a crush on. I remember my friends were all fighting with each other, because of some reason that I can't remember now. I remember how beautiful I felt as I put on my pretty purple dress (see above.) I remember how great of a night it was, and how much hype there was. Oh how I miss high school.
Nowadays, there's a thing called promposals where you get some big elaborate plan to well..ask someone to prom. Kind of like you're proposing marriage but the high school verison of that. My question is when did that become a thing?
Back in my day we just went up to the person and hoped that they said yes. Now you need flowers, teddy bears, and who knows what else?
Griffin (aka the lovely dude in the picture) I'm going to have to ask for a refund. (actually, I am kidding-my prom was awesome because of you.) I remember being asked to my prom. It was over a breadbowl at Panera, and he asked if he'd be interested if I needed a date. (not the exact words, since I can't remember them)
In my opinion prom posals are similar to Valentine's Day-cheesy and if you don't get one of your own, very upsetting and excluding. I understand the need for a grand gesture to woo someone to get them to say yes. But, the thing is flowers, stuffed animals and other romantic things won't get someone to love you. Yes, they will be impressed. (I know that I would be-not going to lie.) However, if they say no it will be humilating.
Prom is one of those important 'right of passages' things in high school. I remember secretly being so excited about it. I remember that night, being the only one of my friends who had a date and of course the excitement of finding the perfect dress.
However, when did it become so cliche? When did it become a contest for a guy to ask a girl to prom in some grand way? Isn't high school a big enough of a popularity contest? Where did it all start in the first place?
It must have been after I had left high school.
As prom season nears, I'll be looking at the dresses of some of my younger friends and feeling old that my own prom was 3 years ago. Will prom posals become a regular thing? Stay tuned.

Friday, March 27, 2015

Why Do I Want to be A Journalist?

Lately, it seems that I have been asked one question 24/7. Why do you want to be a journalist? I honestly can never find a good answer, which can kind of be sad considering that these are scholarship essays. But, it did inspire me to think about it, really think about it. Here's the answer.
I've always had a thing for writing. I've always bought notebooks in bulk when they were ten cents during the back to school sales and have whatever thought that I had when I was younger that I now cringe at. I used to pound away at my grandma's teal typewriter that needed tape. I wrote about my stuffed animals doing something, and had an overactive imagination.
When I was in middle school, I decided to stop writing which was one of my biggest mistakes. I thought that it would make me weird, however, I soon realized that I was the one depriving myself.
In my sophomore year in high school, I joined the school paper. I can't remember my first story, however, I do remember the feeling of seeing my name in print. I continued to be a part of my high school paper until graduation.
Entering college, I knew that I wanted to write. Instead I did the logical thing of being a psychology major with the hopes of becoming a social worker. Yes, I was smart. However, I realized that both my passions and my abilities were lacking. At the same time, I had become a staff writer for my college paper (where I would later become the Opinions Editor), and I enjoyed it each and every minute. I also had become more and more involved in the blogging community. I knew that I had to become a journalist. That's where my heart belonged.
As a journalism major, I feel like I am not doing work. I am doing something that is natural to me-writing. I've improved a lot since I've written for the Dial, and I have a lot of improvements to go before I graduate in a year and a half.
So, to answer the question I want to be a journalist because I enjoy writing an article about anything. I enjoy writing about people whose views are different than my own, whether it's a campus minister or the director of the homeless soup kitchen. I may complain about the rigor of how much I write, however I do enjoy it. Isn't that what's all that matters?
I hope that answers the question. Everyday, I fall more and more in love with journalism. I love my classes, and I hope one day that will lead me to find a job. I love learning about how to improve myself, and my craft.
Isn't that the feeling when you've known that you've made it?

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

I've Got Something to Say

Hey everyone near and far who may be reading this. I recently came clean to my readers that I've been going through a hard time with everything, such as the pressures of being a full-time student, working two jobs, and balancing the responsibilities of having friends. Needless to say, I sometimes slip up, and it sometimes shows. I'm working on it, because sometimes being me can be overwhelming.
I want you all to know that because I'm going through stuff doesn't mean that I'm more or less of a person. I'm working through it, and trying to take my life over in the best way possible. Just because I decided to share my struggles on my personal blog, doesn't mean that I'm asking for attention. I'm trying to make sure that I, the person that is most being affected by this, am doing the best that I can to try to get on the right track.
Just because I'm having a hard time and talking about it doesn't mean that I want sympathy. It doesn't mean that I want someone to make less challenging for me. Just because I'm not taking five classes and taking the path that many of my friends are doesn't make me more or less of a person than the rest of you. I'm doing things my way. It makes me mad when people tell me that I'm not doing the right thing, when in reality I know that I am.
By talking about my experiences I want to show one thing-that I'm not afraid or ashamed by them. The one thing that I learned, among others, is that we are afraid of failure. I am not proud of my shortcomings, but I am not going to hide behind them anymore. Life is too short for that, and I want to spend most of it, well enjoying it.
And in case you all were wondering, I have been doing better. I am a lot happier than I have been since I don't remember when. I'm looking foreword to having a summer vacation to decide if I'm going to grad school, and more importantly where. I am looking foreword to spending it enjoying life, instead of planning it. For the first time, I am less anxious about my grades, because I know the best that I can do....is well the best that I can do. I may not be graduating with my class, I may not be taking the same amount of classes, and I may not be doing things that others may or may not agree with. But, I am doing what makes me happy.
Sometimes, others forget that's all that matters, because they themselves aren't happy or willing to take the steps needed to create happiness. I think that's where critics begin to form-out of shear jealousy.
So, to whoever is reading this, I hope that you're still with me. I hope that you now have listened, and am in some ways is inspired. This is what I have to say about this-now I'll sip my honest tea.
Thank you, and good night.

Monday, March 23, 2015

Spring Essentials

Spring is my favorite season because everything seems to become out of hiding and everything is in bloom. All of our past mistakes simply seem to melt away, igniting a new change in the way that only comes once a year. We all can smell it, the way that it changes in the air, and the way that everything seems better in the spring.
One of the things that I've been doing a lot in honor of spring is shopping. Here are some of my newest buys for spring.
Dooney and Bourke Floral Shopper, QVC Dooney and Bourke is one of my favorite brands of purses of all time. I am a huge fan of their shopper bags, because it fits everything and the kitchen sink. This is my second one. The first one that I own is a black one. However, as the weather became brighter and the days have become brighter, I decided to treat myself to getting one of their floral shopper bags. As soon as I got it, I fell in love with it. The bag itself costs $135, however, thanks to a little thing called Easy Pay, I was able to get it home, and pay it off over time.
Fifth and Mae: I recently reordered a second order of Fifth and Mae. A pair of Mint Green studs, and a Cali state necklace. I am  so happy with them, and they, as always, have such great quality. They have such fast shipping, and they really brighten up every outfit.
Rose Gold: I've been such a huge fan of rose gold whether it's bracelets, or a watch. They always shine and brighten up an outfit. My favorite? This Alex and Ani bangle!
So what are you buying this spring? Let me know in the comments below!

Friday, March 20, 2015

LA Day Three; Runyon and a tour with a local!

Hey guys! I'm slowly but surely getting through telling you all about my time in LA, and look foreword to finishing sharing my time there with you sometime next week.
On day three, I spend the morning at an ACP conference to help make the most of social media with my friend Monica. I enjoyed it, because it taught me so much about it, whether it's for my blog or as a college journalist.
Jess and I at breakfast.
After we went to the conference, we were starving so we went to breakfast with some other members of our news staff. We went to a delicious place called the Saddle Ranch. I had a chicken ceaser wrap with sweet potato fries. The manager gave us free mores as well, which were delicious!

The wrap was as good as it looked! 

Smores! 
Monica and I then hooked up with her friend who lived in LA. She took us to Griffith Park, where we ran into a real news anchor and talked to him. We also got an incredible view of the Hollywood sign!
Hollywood!

Griffith Museum
After that, we went to Runyon, where we hiked and got some great shots of the scenery. It's hard to believe that we were surrounded by celebrities that lived within miles of each other. However, we didn't seen any celebs, sadly.
Me with the Hollywood Hills in the background. 
After our day sightseeing, we went to Starbucks to kill time until we had to see Brian Shelter. After that, we participated in a version of selfie feud, and ordered Chinese Food.
The view where one of the conferences was taking place.
That was Day Three! Day four will be coming up soon! Miss my last installment? Check it out here. 

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Recent Etsy Purchases

Oh yes, Etsy. The place where I can spend all of my paycheck, and not even care. Etsy is home to pretty much everything under the sun, but recently I've been getting lucky in some of my Etsy purchases, so I decided to share them all with you.
Happy Girls Are the Prettiest Bracelet: This bracelet means a lot to me because I love Audrey Hepburn, and when I saw this I had to get it. It serves as a remind to myself to be happy. I'm in love with this bracelet and wear it often. It's so affordable, and if you love Audrey as much as I do than it's a must have! It's also great to pair with my Chavez for Charity bracelet.
Bar Necklace: I've always wanted a bar name necklace, and I stumbled across this site with FREE SHIPPING. Yeah, you heard me. FREE SHIPPING. It's a dainty piece, but it's perfect. The quality is great, and really substantial. The chain is really heavy too, which I liked. I totally recommend you checking this out if you're interested in joining the bar necklace trend!
Opal hamsa: I'm guilty of loving hamsas to the point where they are taking over my jewelry box. I loved this one because I really love opals, so combined with a hamsa I figured this would be the perfect thing for me. It shipped so fast, and I've worn it many times since receiving it. It's also such a beautiful necklace, so if you're looking for a hamsa, I recommend checking this one out. Bonus; the necklace is affordable and comes in different colors.
What have you been buying on Etsy?

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

I Blame Pinterest For..

Oh Pinterest. You know that lovely thing where you can spend hours and hours on making lovely pins about things that you may want to eat, do to your hair, buy or places that you want to go. I've had a Pinterest for about two years, and on most occasion, use it for blogging, while drinking my coffee, and of course, just because I want to pin everything.
However, it's safe to say that I have a Pinterest addiction. I have over 4,000 pins, an the number keeps on getting higher and higher. Needless to say, it's a problem. Here are some of the things that I blame Pinterest for making me do. Not that it's a bad thing, but still.

Go shopping. Every outfit that I pin? Every earrings, necklaces, etc that I want? Chances are, if it were a store, I would buy them. And then be very broke. The plus side about it is that at least when I do go shopping, I know what I want.
Cut my hair, really short. When I recently cut my hair, I constantly looked on to see what styles I could use for my new length. I found some cute ones, btw. I also looked at shorter haircuts before  I took the plunge. This also lead me to look at other styles, such as the lob. Needless to say, I will be probably be pinning them, and either have the hopes of getting up the nerve to actually do it, or just simply admire from afar. #staytuned
Plan my future wedding despite the fact that I don't have a boyfriend. 

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

How to Wear a Claddagh Ring

I've worn a claddagh ring for about four and a half years now. However, the first time that I've worn it I wore it wrong. I actually bought it because I really liked it on a friend that I had, and wasn't aware of the meaning. Once I looked it up, I really loved the meaning so I started buying it in all sizes and colors! 
The Claddagh ring has three different symbols. The first is the heart, which stands for love. The hands stand for friendship, and the crown stands for loyalty. The ring was an Irish symbol, although there are many speculations about the origin of the ring. 
There are multiple ways to wear this ring. Many people wear their ring on designated fingers, however I don't. I wear mine on my middle finger on my right hand. The one that you see picture was from Dava, which is my favorite place in the world. It's my favorite Claddagh ever, and it was on sale for $11! 
Basically there's two ways to wear the ring. If you were the crown pointed towards you, that means that you're open to love, and am single. If you're in a relationship, then the ring would be pointed away from you. Since owning the ring, I've never wore it the 'relationship' way. I do hope that one day that changes, but in the mean time I'm embracing the single hood. 
Do you have a Claddagh ring? Let me know in the comments below! 

Monday, March 16, 2015

Music Monday-Rebel Heart

Who is the Queen of Pop? Many of you will argue many names, but I want to direct your attention to the true Queen. And that is none other than Madonna.
Madonna's been around since 1983 when she released her debut, Madonna. In her 30 plus career, she's pushed more borderlines, created many hits that still manage to move the largest of crowds, and have a large fan base that spans multiple generations. She also released her 13th studio album last week, Rebel Heart.
In December 2014, Madonna released tracks from her new album and pushed up her release date as a result from people leaking her album. She released the hit single 'Living For Love', which topped the charts.
My copy of the super deluxe edition. 
Last week, Rebel Heart came out. And it's been on my iTunes repeat since then. In my opinion, it's one of her better albums. (And I have many of her albums.)
There's many variations of music on the album. Songs like 'Living for Love', 'B*tch I'm Madonna', and 'Unapologetic B*tch' have a dance floor feel to them. Other songs such as 'Ghosttown' and 'Rebel Heart' have a nostalgic, ballad feel to them that show off Madonna's voice and lyrical genius.
In 'Veni Vedi Veci', Madonna even references some of her older works, such as her hits 'Like a Prayer', 'Vogue', and 'Like a Virgin.' Not many artists can pull that off, and that proved not only her legacy, but how lyrically talented she is.
It's safe to say that Madonna is the Queen of Pop, and her latest album proves that she's not going to give up her crown anytime soon.  Rebel Heart is a mixture of the moving on from a breakup, but is a must for anyone who not only loves Madonna but for anyone whose in the mood for great music. It's such a great album, and I can't stop listening to it.
Great job Madonna. With your latest release, you've still shown the world that you're not going anywhere.
Listen to: 'Living For Love,' 'Devil Pray,' 'Ghosttown', 'Iconic', 'B*tch I'm Madonna', 'Unapolegtic B*tch', 'Veni Vedi Veci', 'Holy Water', and 'Rebel Heart.'

Saturday, March 14, 2015

One Year

Today is my one year anniversary. No, I am not talking about my relationship anniversary, because mine is nonexistent. However, it's been one year since I have decided to become a pollatarian.
Pollatarian, for those of you who don't know, is a person that doesn't eat any meat other than chicken or turkey. I have decided to be a pollatarian, but did it semi-gradually. For a while, I only ate meat once or twice a month. Than, for my New Year's resolution in 2014 I decided to fully become into the pollotarian life. That meant saying goodbye to hamburgers, and steaks.
Since becoming pollotarian, I've only slipped up twice. Both of them were for medical reasons. The last time I've had meat was a cheeseburger, on Pi Day 2014. Since then, I had stuck to mostly eating grilled chicken, as well as vegetables. It sounds boring, but there is a lot of things that you can do with grilled chicken. I recently discovered guacamole, as well as the wonder that is honey mustard.
Many say when I tell them "how do you live?" It's actually really easy. The only time that I ever really had trouble was when I went away to California, because there were many hamburger options that only offered hamburgers. Other than that, most of the places I eat at have some sort of chicken option. I also have to take a special vitamin to make sure that I have enough iron in my system without getting really sick.
When I tell people a lot of them insult me because I don't eat meat. My grandma is often confused by the concept, and takes it personally that I don't eat her meatballs. I'm not sure how much longer I can go being a pollatarian, however I don't regret my decision. It taught me to expand my horizons food wise, and try new things. It also taught me to eat healthier, even though a lot of the times I end up eating starches. I don't think that I'll ever be a full on vegetarian, because of that.
So, today's my one year anniversary. I'm very proud of myself, to say the least.
Are you a vegetarian of some sort? Let me know.

Friday, March 13, 2015

What are you looking for?

It seems like everyone is aspiring for something. You know looking for something that you can not find, no matter how hard and far that you look. Whether it's success, great love, or even to make it we are all following a strange and twisted path. 
While sitting on my plane ride to LA I realized that each and every one of us is looking for something. Let's take Carrie from Sex and the City. It's safe to say that she's looking for love, the can't live without you kind of love that makes you forget what else is going on in your life. She even went to Paris for God's sake to follow a guy that was just an asshat. She ended up getting slapped, and a brush with the love of her life. It got me thinking; what am I looking for? 
I guess that can be answered by saying I'm looking for happiness. I'm looking for a chance to love and be loved. This love can come from a significant other, friends, my puppy, and family. I'm looking for a chance to go places that maybe I have never been before. I am looking for that little voice in my head telling me not to do things will shut up and go away forever. I'm looking for a career that I can honestly say that I love what I do. Im looking foreward to the future while being conscious of the past and the footprints that I have left behind. 
I guess the question to all of you Internet readers out there will be what are you looking for?

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Social Media Pet Peeves

Ahh yes, social media. You know the place where it is socially acceptable to talk in hashtags, and annoy pretty much everyone you know because you think that your life is so much better than theirs. Truth tea, it's not.
I have a wierd relationship with social media. My instagram is literally my biggest obsession, and I am constantly tweeting like it's going out of style. However, although I have become so obsessed with social media, I do realize that there are some things that just really annoy me.
Constantly updating your status. It's 2015. There's no need for you to constantly update Facebook and tell your thousands of  'friends' what you're doing, thinking, and stuff. Every now and then, yes. However, if you're just updating your status to tell us what you're eating or drinking, then really you should seek help.
Constantly changing your profile picture. I rarely, if ever change my default image on Facebook. I recently changed it upon returning to LA. Before that, that picture was updated around Christmas time. I know people who constantly update that Facebook default. Like maybe once a week. I mean to each their own, but changing your profile picture every other day can be a problem.
Constantly referencing your significant other in posts. I'm a bitter single so I guess that I am just a bit biased. However, I do think that people should post about their significant other. I mean, they are an important part of your life, so needless to say they are going to be mentioned. But, what about when you post about your bae every other day? Well, that's when you draw the line. At least for me. I honestly don't want to hear about it every other second. When I see someone constantly post about their S.O, I wonder if they have any privacy. If you're my friend then I'll be happy for you. The occasional selfie or post, fine. However, if you are constantly telling me about bae than you really need to read a book.
Mirror selfies. It's not 2011. You have a front camera. Use it.
What are your social media pet peeves?

Monday, March 9, 2015

LA Day 2: Universal Studios & First Day of Conferences

Hey everyone! Here's the second day of my LA trip!
 
Universal Studios
In the morning, we went to breakfast at Universal Studios. Unfortunately, the only place open was Starbucks, but since it's been forever since I've had some, I was excited. (After all, who isn't excited about Starbucks?) Then, we did a little bit of window shopping. Unfortunately, City Walk shops were closed for the most part so we had to go back later.
 
More City Walk.
Then, I went to an interesting conference about photojournalism. After the conference, I ran to my room, put on my bathing suit, and spent some time by the pool. Since it was so warm, I was enjoying every minute. After all, being from the Northeast, who can say that they were in a pool in Feb.!
 
Poolside.
After that, we had a keynote speaker-Rory Kennedy. She talked about her new documentary as well as answered the questions of aspiring journalists.
After the keynote, my roomates and I were hungry so we went back to City Walk. This time, everything was open and there were a lot of people around. We first got dinner, which was at a delicious steakhouse. I had chicken tenders, because as a pollotarian, steak isn't an option. To keep it healthy, I had a side salad.
 
A selfie with my friend Jene!
After that, we went shopping. I unfortunately forgot my wallet, so I was panicking. Luckily, it was on the bed, so crisis averted. We were going to see an Alexz Johnson concert, however, we first decided to take a nap first. I had a hard time waking up, so I ended up staying in.
Overall, my second day was awesome! Come back for day 3!

Friday, March 6, 2015

Dear Me

On Good Morning America I saw this segment about Dear Me, which is a letter to my 16 year old self. I decided that to write my own, seeing as this was a good idea. So, enjoy the whole reflection letter, as well as the throwback picture.

Dear 16 year old Natalie;
As you're reading this, you're probably about to head to badminton practice while listening to a strange mixture of every music that you can imagine. You're probably obsessing currently about making macrame bracelets, and that boy you just met. However, what you don't know is that you're in your prime in life. 
Even though you're not in any AP classes, you're seriously smarter than you think. Stop thinking of yourself as being dumb. However, you're going to dumb yourself down which is the stupidest thing that you could ever do. Own up to being a nerd and enjoying books.
This is also the year that you really begin to blog. Of course, you take a page from Carrie Bradshaw's book and write about your crushes. Even though they find out and you want to crawl up in a hole and hide don't. You'll later learn the importance of blogging and realize that it led you to majoring in journalism. You'll also later learn in keeping somethings off of the blogsphere. 
The best advice that I can give you is to enjoy every minute of life. Time flies way too fast, especially in high school. Seeing that this picture was taken four and a half years ago, I can honestly say that it does. You'll miss high school, the badminton team, the Dial, and the crazy collection of friends. (Some that you stay in contact with currently are people that you'll meet just a bit later.) The other piece of advice is to stay true to yourself. People will try to hurt you because they know that they can. Don't let them. Also don't let yourself go down to their level, because that's how they win. Stay classy, and seriously stop shopping at Abercombie. 
You're a great person so smile, read a lot of books, and of course own up to the fact that you have a lot of cookies. 
Sincerely, 
Natalie 

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

LA Day One-Venice Beach

                                                                Santa Monica sign
Hey everyone! As I'm writing this, I am currently trying to get adjusted to the eastern time zones. It's a bit confusing. For those of you who are new around here, I've spent five days in Los Angeles. The first day I spent in Venice Beach and Santa Monica. I went to the ACP conference, but we got to spent some of the time sight seeing.
                                          Left to Right: Monica, Jess, Jene, Me
As soon as we got off of the plane, my roommates (now friends) Monica, Jess, and Jene decided to go to Santa Monica beach because we wanted to see the beach. So, as soon as we got to our hotel room, we rented an uber car, and went.
Photo One: Pacific Ocean
Photo Two: Selfie with the Ocean, NBD.
As soon as we got there, we ran to the Pacific Ocean. It was so blue! Then we walked around. Santa Monica had a bunch of little shops, and then we went to the artsy Venice Beach. We ate dinner at a little cafe, and then watched the sunset.
Photo One: (L to R) Jess, Jene
Photo Two: (L to R) Me, Monica
On our way back, we went to this little coffee shop where they had delicious hot chocolate, and a warm cookie sundae. (all of my favorite things!) We then went back to our hotel, where we hung out by the pool for a while with the rest of our staff.
                                                     Sunset on Venice Beach
Day One was amazing! Come back for more of my California adventures! 

Monday, March 2, 2015

My Idols.

Hey everyone! I am currently back in CT soil, and getting used to the time difference. I saw this post on Lovely Lyfestyle and I wanted to do it for myself. I decided to write about my celebrity idols, because let's face it, don't we all have them? Who are yours? Let me know in the comments below.

My celebrity idols are Audrey Hepburn, Ozzy Osbourne, and Lauren Conrad.
Lauren Conrad is my celebrity idol, because she's so down to Earth. Unlike other reality stars, she actually made a name for herself. She has three fashion lines, a shelf's worth of best sellers, and she's always dressed to the nines. Plus, she has the best quotes ever. I love her blog, and the way that she relates to her readers.
 Lauren Conrad Career Path
Audrey Hepburn is my other idol, because she's one of the best actresses in all of Hollywood, in my opinion. I love all of her movies, the way that she dresses, and I love how she always gave back. She was so geninune, and a really good actress.
 I just love her. She come to mind every time I wear black leggings and flats.
Ozzy is my idol because he is just so talented. I love that Ozzy doesn't do what's normal, and I also love how honest he is. His music is amazing, and I just enjoy listening to him.
Ozzy Osbourne
*All Images are located on my Pinterest boards Audrey, and Behind the Blog.