Reacting to a University President's Comment

A few days ago, a video of an out of hand college party surfaced. Now, this scene has all of the components of a regular college party--red solo cups and an extremely high volume--but there was something that was unusual about this particular one. And that was, the fact that the University president was in attendance of this off campus party. He encouraged the partying, and also jokingly said the University should buy more houses in the area, a "joke" on the behavior of many of his students.

That university was Quinnipiac. And Quinnipiac is in my hometown of Hamden, Connecticut. Although the president apologized, I still find it problematic that he can suggest even buying more houses for the students to party in. Shouldn’t you be cracking down on it?

I've lived in Hamden my whole life. I've enjoyed the delicious food as a regular at Acropolis Diner, I walked on the canal trail and I've been through all of Hamden's public schools. However, I believe my hometown has been taken over by the Quinnipiac University Bobcats, also knows as slob cats by revival Yale.

Before I continue let me say this--I don't hate everyone who goes to Quinnipiac or have anything against the students who go there either. I've been there before, and I enjoy the beauty of the campus as well as how talented some of the people I know go there are. 

For example, one of my favorite bloggers, Sami from Sparkle and Shine goes to school there, as well as my best friend does. There are good people there, and that’s not what I’m talking about.

I’m talking about those select few who overshadow the others. They are the ones who in a sense take over my town, and turn it into their personal playground to do whatever you choose. Whether it’s being drunk and disorderly to the point where it can disturb others to just in general, or just simply not caring about town property, the impact of the slob cats in the past few years has changed the town dynamic.

For example, my mom and I were at the local diner. Some girls came in and took over the restaurant. They threw beer cans in the parking lot and were extremely loud and rude. They even broke a towel paper dispenser in the bath room. To me, that’s a bit going in the extreme and it’s one of the few examples that I have about the ‘slob cats’ behavior.

I don’t hate Quinnipiac or am here to bash them. I do however ask there be a change on how the students treat Hamden. I get it that to many college is chance to party and break free the chains of home life. However, do it so you’re not at the expense of others. If someone is complaining about how loud someone is, then there’s a problem there. Just like you have the right to party, there’s also the right to tell someone that they are partying way too much. And if that happens to you, then you have to respect why someone said that they have a problem with how loud you are.

Treat Hamden with respect. That’s all we ask. We will do the same for you, as we are welcoming you into their own town. We have a lot of cool things going on here, and we love that you are there. But please, don’t abuse it. Would you rather be remembered as partiers or for being really good at what you do?

As a resident of Hamden, I don’t want it to be known as “town of the Slobcats.” For all I know is that I’ll end up at QU for my Master’s. I don’t want it to be known as a school for the party animals go to, because it’s a really good school. Clean up your act, QU. That’s all I ask for.

Currently.

Currently, my life is a mix of writing a lot of final papers and getting ready to finally enjoy the summer. (It's going to be weird not having a bunch of things going on, but that I can get used to.) I also plan to spend the summer interning at the College Fashionista website, which is something that I am so excited to announce with you all! I start May 18th, and I'm so excited to have this opportunity. I've never written for a blog before (other than my own) so this experience will be so great. (Plus it's something that I can learn a lot from!)

So here's what's up with me lately:

I'm currently listening to: Forever by Drake, Sechnsuct by Rammstein, and Style by Taylor Swift on repeat. 

I'm currently reading "The Lucy Variations." I love Sara Zarr, however I wish I had more time to read it! 

I'm currently obsessed with the color blue. Particially Tiffany Blue. 

I'm also currently obsessed with LC Lauren Conrad. I recently bought some costume jewelry pieces as well as some from her Cinderella collection! (Maybe I'll do a fashion post about her upcoming Minnie Mouse collection; what do you think?) 

I'm currently obsessed with iced coffee. I used to hate it, and now I can't get enough! (Especially the cookie dough kind)

What are you up to currently? 

Music Monday: Why I Still Listen to iPods

In middle school, if you had an iPod nano you were considered to rule the school. The iPod, back then a rectangle with a small screen, only held about a thousand songs and didn't play any video. Nine years later, many of those people are now loading their iTunes library onto their cell phones, some of them golden iPhones while others are played on iPhone 5cs, similar to the color of their iPod nanos.

I'm probably one of the few people in the world that still buys music off of the iTunes store, and syncs it to my old iPod touch or iPod shuffle as see here. Part of it is because I like that it's smaller and that it doesn't take up my space on my old iPhone four. (I'm eventually getting an upgrade soon, thank gosh)  However, even if I do eventually get an upgrade (starting to save that cash), I know that I won't be putting music on my phone. 

The big reason is because I enjoy having separate things. In my iTunes library, I have over two thousand songs. Even though I have a playlist for my touch that syncs about a fourth of what I actually own, I would rather use my phone for things such as apps and music. My music probably take up almost all of my phone's space, which is something that I didn't want to do. Plus, with the amount of times I listen to music a day, my phone would constantly be needing to be charged almost double the times it does currently. 

I also enjoy that I can clip my iPod shuffle to my clothes, which is perfect for working out. Even though I can only fit a few songs, I enjoy that I can having something that isn't heavy for when I'm running. I have a mix of songs that are meant to pump you up. If you are working out, I think that you should at least invest in a shuffle. They make life so much easier. Plus, when you're driving, you don't have to mess with a screen, you can simple press the buttons. (the same goes for my touch, too.)

I think that I'll always have an iPod, because of these reasons. Although it's cool to listen to music on my phone, I think I'll always want to listen to my music through the house of my iPod. 

Why Sometimes You've Gotta Break Up With Friends

Friendships are supposed to be keeping you afloat, not being the anchor that lets you sink. However, toxic friendships can often well cause negativity in life. This can often result in bring you down as well.
I believe that a friend should be there for you in good times and in bad. Why? Well, not every moment in life is not going to be spend partying like it's 1999. Sometimes, you're going to need someone to tell you the world's not always going to suck. Or if it's a boyfriend, it's going to be that not all guys are mean and evil. I mean come on. Look at Ben and Jerry.
If a friend is making you upset for any reason, the first thing that you've got to do is talk to them. They really can't read your mind. Talking about how you feel is always a good thing. Just make sure that whatever you're going to say isn't accusatory. Basically, just be careful about how you say it.
However, sometimes there are times when you need to let go of friends. It can be for whatever reason, but if you're unhappy with the way that you're being treated that's okay. No one deserves to be treated unfairly. I mean, no one does no matter what.
Basically, if someone isn't making you happy then you have the right to say so and choose the role that they play in your lives. If they are treating you less than you deserve, than you have the right to exclude or delete them in your life.
Lately, I've been noticing what's a good friend and what's not. Sometimes, a lot of my friends complain too much and bring me down. When this happens, I learn to step away. Otherwise, it will allow me to be negative as well.
My number one pet peeve is when people complain and don't do anything about the source of their complaints. It may sound cruel, but it's true. If you're complaining about something, why don't you try to fix what's broken? I'm tired of having to hear the same things over and over again. This is when you need to learn to step away from the negativity, and enjoy the good things in life. Like cookies, the ocean, and sunshine.
At the end of the day, you are who you surround yourself with. So why don't you surround yourself with happiness?

Wishlist Wednesday

Lately, it seems like I've been bitten by the shopping bug. As spring approaches, I've been craving brighter clothing and floral patterns. As well as that, I'm just ready for a few new things in my close.

Alex and Ani:In the summer, it seems like I'm always wearing my Alex and Ani bracelets. Since I'm not in a classroom, I don't have to fight with them to write. Also long sleeves make having charmed arms a bit challenging. This summer, I want to add a few additions to my Alex and Ani collection. I want to add the elephant (they are my favorite animal) and the Cinderella one, since lately it's been my obsession. Both of these bracelets I want to add in silver, because all of my gold ones seemed to turn.

iPhone 6:Lately, my phone seemed to be a bit...well not working for lack of better words. I have the 4, and it's starting to show it's age. The camera isn't working as well as it used to, and my battery has been dying quicker than ever before. My upgrade is up in June, and honestly, I'm ready for it. I am planning for the 6, because I figured that not only would it be the better choice, it would last longer. I want the newest, because I know that it will stay current at least for a while. I am debating about getting the gold or the black one, but since I have a few months until I have to decide, I have time. (Also currently saving.)
 
Lilly Pulitzer...well anything: Lilly has just arrived to Target, and I want to buy everything. Some of my favorites include this tote, which is only $15! I also love her springy tops. I currently have a Illy phone case, and I'm in love with it. I so can't wait to write more. 
Lauren Conrad's Minnie Mouse Collection: I loved LC's Cinderella collection (I even own the blue shoe sweater) and am so excited for her to feature my favorite mouse! I definitely will be picking up a few pieces when it comes out in a few weeks. 
What's on your wishlist?
*The tote for the Lilly bag is available here.

Music Monday: Strange Desire

Source
https://open.spotify.com/album/0cnNCK2xpudXjB8pzsrYy9 
Well, look whose back with a vengeance! None other than one of my favorite features-Music Monday. For the first Music Monday since God knows when, I am featuring the awesome Bleachers. Bleachers, which is an one man band featuring Jack Antonoff of the band Fun.
Strange Desire was released last summer, and I've recently bought the album thanks to the iTunes alternative sale. Seriously, bought so many albums on impulse and I don't even care.
The album is a mixture of alternative and reminded me of the 80s. If you like Taylor Swift's '1989,' then you will like this album.
'Strange Desire' has the hit single, 'I Wanna Get Better.' 'I Wanna Get Better' is a catchy song which talks about one's desire to do just that-get better at whatever. It also features the single 'Rollercoaster', which is one of my jams. Another favorite of mine is 'Wild Heart,' which is the first track of the album. 'Shadow', 'Wake Me' and 'Like a River Runs' are also some of my favorites.
Overall, if you're looking for some new, awesome and fresh music than you're in luck-'Strange Desire' has got your back.
Songs I am Obsessed With: 'Wild Heart,' Rollercoaster,' 'I Wanna Get Better,' 'Shadow' and 'Reckless Love.' 

New Camera and Review of the Canon ELPH Powershot 160

For about two years, I have needed a digital camera. As my old Kodak camera breathed it's last breath, I have been procrastinating buying a new one for as long as I could possibly can. As a blogger, you must be thinking why hasn't she purchased one? Thanks to the arrival of my iPhone four, with a decent camera, I thought that I would be good enough.
However, when I got my internship at College Fashionista, I knew that my iPhone wouldn't be able to serve me well. Part of the requirements of the internship was that I would get a digital camera. So, I took to QVC, where I came across this lovely beauty, the Canon ELPH Powershot. For five easy payments, I knew that it would be the perfect choice for my internship needs, and an investment for life in general.
So far, I love the camera. I love how small and compact that it is. Since it's been a while since I've last used one, my camera skills were a bit rusty. Getting this out of the box, it was easy to use. I thought that it was perfect for all of those like me who weren't savvy. I liked how clear and pretty the pictures came out, and I thought that it was a great value..
If you're looking for a digital camera, and you're not into the fancy DSLR life, this camera is perfect for you. I guarantee that you'll want to bring your camera everywhere, and take lots of pictures. 

Happy Birthday, Baby.

Three years ago today, I would be sitting down and writing my first post. 600 plus posts later, I still sit behind a laptop and blog about what truly makes me happy. Whether it's about my day to day life, opinions on a social issue, or even just some music that I've been listening to lately, my blog became my little corner of the world. My posting schedule can constantly change, however, one thing can be certain. I'm not going anywhere.
In the past three years so much has happened. Prom, graduating high school, and starting college. Casually dating someone and later learning that they weren't in fact right for me. Finally getting my driver's license, meeting new people, and of course the things that I choose to keep offline. I've grown and become a better writer than in my early days.
I still can't believe all of the opportunities that this blog has given me. I still can't believe that I have over 20,000 people who have read this little blog. I didn't realize that I am that interesting, and I hope as I continue to grow this blog, that I continue to make my presence on the internet known. I also plan to continue this blog's style of op eds, reviews, and of course a diary since this is my blog. I've been able to meet so many people, know their stories from just being a 'regular' on their page, and ultimately just connect.  Writing over 600 posts is insane to me, and to celebrate I bought myself a ring. (Cause, I'm worth it.)
Being a blogger is something that I used to hide behind, however, now I am proud of it. I constantly tell my friends that whatever we do will probably be in the blog. (Since I don't really hang out with that many people often, those posts are sparingly.)
So Happy Birthday to my little blog. Thank you for the opportunities that you've given me. And to those who are reading this, I want to personally thank you for sticking by me for all of these years. I hope to continue seeing you (or rather you seeing me since I'm the one whose page you visit.)
You know you love me,
Natalie

Online Dating?

Online dating. Oh yeah, a jungle for those who are creepy and looking to find someone, anyone, to prey on. It's also an oasis for those who are shy, and meeting people is sometimes intimidating. 
It  took me about 5 years to realize that life isn't an episode of Sex and the City. Nor is it a romantic comedy, where the love of your life is discovered while ordering Starbucks. Sometimes, online dating is the new and realistic way to find someone that you really want to be with. But, then you'll always wonder if someone will ever be who they say that they are. 
Online dating has the connotation of having creepy people around, and the only people who are on are completely desperate. Who else judges someone when they say 'I'm talking to a guy online.' Of course, nowadays it's more common to connect to make connections. It seems like more and more singles are going to Tinder or OK Cupid nowadays because the statistics of finding someone is dismal. Also, there's the whole worrying about if you'll die alone thing. 
I have a friend that constantly goes on dates with people met via Tinder. I also have a friend who met her current boyfriend through Facebook. These stories are the good ones. The Internet can sometimes work in our favor-no?
At the same time, there's those stories when people on the Internet who are just in it for one thing-you all know what it is. The concept of online dating makes it so much easier for them to get their fix, which is kind of scary. 
While doing the Tinder Project last year, I learned one thing. Havng a Tinder is similar to going shopping at TJ Maxx. Sometimes, you'll find something that truly knocks your socks off. Other times however, you'll walk out feeling sorely disappointed. 
So...tell me. What do you think about online dating?

Flower Power

                                   Dooney and Bourke bag and Wallet; Lilly Pulitzer Phone Case
Lately, it seems like I've been really into florals. Flower bags, phone cases, and wallets. As I prepare for spring, it's the perfect thing to brighten up every day. Even though the weather may not comply with you.
Whenever I wear florals, I instantly feel ten times better. Since spring has been taking a lot longer than usual to get here, having some flowers in my daily routine really help with chasing away the winter blues.

                                                         My first Lilly Purchase! 
Sometimes, it can be a bit much to wear florals, and some may think that the patterns may be too busy for them. However,  as much as I gravitate towards darker colors, I let my accessories be a little more fun.
My favorites? A Lilly Pulzter phone case, thanks to TJ Maxx, which was my first Lilly item! I definately will be back for more! Also, a Dooney and Bourke wallet with flowers(a TJ Maxx find, notice a trend here), which is my favorite because it has a pocket for my phone. Of course, a Dooney and Bourke Nylon Shopper totes with yellow flowers, which has enough room for everything that I need and much more. (thank you QVC). I also have my eye on a few LC Lauren Conrad pieces, because floral tops are perfect for spring.
What is your favorite spring trend? 

That Topic I Shouldn't Be Blogging About.

I probably am breaking every rule in the blogging book by even talking about it. However, I am a blogger and a young woman and since these issues are important to me they will be discussed here.

Let me tell you all a bit about my relationship with sex. I am not sexually active, and I am a virgin. I am unsure where I stand on the whole waiting until I'm married thing to be honest. On one hand, I am unsure whether or not I am going to even be married. On the other, I know that I am not ready to have sex now and it's not in my immediate plans. 

I do have standards for sex, and what my level of comfort is for me. In relationships, I plan not to have sex with someone at least for the first six months of our relationship. Once six months have passed, I want to bring the topic of sex to the table as discussion only. When I feel ready enough, I want my partner and I to be tested for STDs, have all of the protection possible, and of course have steady communication with each other. 

I am writing this entry because I feel like we as a society shame people for having sex, yet at the same time we exploit it in our culture. We teach children that sex is bad, when in reality it is a part of nature. I hate that some use the excuse that it's not their religion as a free pass to judge someone for having sex. Yes, abstence is important, but for some it's not the case. 

And it needs to stop.

What bothers me the most is when people shame others for simply taking charge of their sexual health. Those who are comfortable enough to talk about getting protection should be appluaded  Call me crazy, but those who often hide behind closed doors about sex are the ones that aren't getting informed. I'm lucky that if I have a question that I have someone to confide in, but not many are fortunate enough to have that. 

It may not be the easiest topic on my blog, but I believe that it's going to be the most important. For those who have questions, talk. I hate that we live in a society that is surronded by the 'shoulds' because it makes people really feel bad about about themselves if it's not right. Everyone is different and shouldn't be hidden behind the standards that society sets. 

Whether you're deciding to wait or you've already had many partners, make that decision based on what's best for you. Be proud of it, and truly own it.  Be responsible about it, and make sure that if you're not planning to have children you are taking the necessary measures such as birth control and condoms. 

Talk to your mothers, your friends, or even just someone that you can talk to comfortably. It doesn't matter, but having these kinds of conversations are the best thing we can do. Talk to your partner because communication, I've learned is important. The best thing that we can do about this ambigous topic is to simply make it less about shame, and more a topic of comfort. 

Pearls Are A Girl's Best Friend

Source
Move over, diamonds. There's another classic in town. And that my friend is pearls.
I've worn pearl earrings since I was in seventh grade. My mom bought them for me as a Christmas gift, and they've been the perfect addition to several of my outfits. However, nowadays, my love for pearls has grown, which expanded my collection. In addition to my mom's gift, I now own at least four pairs of earrings (in a wide range of colors) as well as bracelets that I've either made or purchased.
Pearls go with everything. One of the things that I really like about them was that they were timeless. In my opinion, buying something with pearls in it is really a true investment. You'll be wearing them for years, as I clearly said in my example earlier.
Many people often compare them to Audrey's necklace in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'. Although the necklace is beautiful to say the least, it's a little too much for everyday wear if you ask me. My way of wearing this classic is simple. Either a pair of studs to add some class to an outfit, or a little dainty bracelet. With pearls, a little goes a long way.
Some of my favorites? The lovely and affordable QVC-they have a wonderful pearl bracelet available for $17! Plus, in some of the colors are perfect for summer. Or, of course the simple white?
And of course, you can't go wrong with the simple pearl stud earring. Get one in white, and I guarantee that you'll have a piece that lasts for years to come. 

LA Day Four

Hey everyone! It's been a while since I've caught you up with my LA travels, so I wanted to finally tell you about my last day in LA.
On my last day, my roommates Monica, Jene and Jessica and I went across the state. We got a tour from Monica's friend Jessica around Beverly Hills area. Sadly, we didn't see any famous celebrities.

The Grove sign.
We went to the Grove, where many celebrities would hang out and have coffee. I had my first crepe, and honestly, it was delicious. We also got to walk around a bit, and they had a lot of really cute shops.

Me with the Beverly Hills sign.
After the Grove, we went to Rodeo Drive where we saw the Beverly Hills sign. (and took a TON of pictures) We then walked around a bit, and I even got a picture with the Tiffany's sign. (Dream job, honestly.)


Me with the Tiffany's sign. 
After that, we met the rest of the newspaper staff for dinner at a Mexican restaurant to end our final day in LA. I had such a great time there, and the opportunity was amazing. I am so glad that I got to spend it with some amazing people, such as Monica, Jene, and Jess. Since coming back, we actually have been hanging out, and will be doing the Big Event at our campus together at the end of the month.



Me with Monica, Jess, and Jene! 
So, I hope you enjoyed my LA recaps! :)

How Do You Define A Relationship?

DTR is one of those things that confuse many of us. However, it's important because otherwise it's like you are wandering around like a helpless little chicken with no hope into what's going to happen to you or most importantly where you're going. It's something that perhaps no one wants to do like pulling off a band aid or plucking their eyebrows but once it's done you feel better about yourself.
The question is-how do you measure or define a relationship? Feelings are really confusing. There is no science that is behind how you feel about someone. Although sometimes, I wish that there was so I didn't have to wander around confused about what I was feeling. Everyone's defination of a relationship is different.
I remember when I was casually dating someone last year. We were hanging out, but everything was unclear about how he felt about me, and eventually it came down to how he felt about a friend of mine. Honestly, that wasn't ok. 
But the real reason to have the conversation of  'define the relationship' is to get one thing-clarity. This whole ordeal can be awkward, especially since you don't know what the other person is going to say. However, it's needed because if you avoid it too long it could lead to a broken heart.
So, here's some advice for the wallflower girls out there who are too scared to make the move. It doesn't matter if you're the girl doing it. It's something that is necesary and needed to have an honest conversation with someone about what they are feeling. Be cool, and just remember that the odds may either in your favor or not.
You all will thank me or think that I am crazy. One of the two.

Ceramic's Night

                                             Verenized, Theresa and Elisia painting

Friends and I painting.

Finally, I spent a Friday night away from the Netflix and with actual people instead of my dog. (No offense, Maggie!) And, it was with none other than my awesome friends, Elisia, Verenized and Theresa.

                                                               bowl and cupcake.

We decided to go to the Clay Date, which is were you basically go and paint things. I painted a jewelry dish, and had some time so I painted a cupcake. Theresa painted a ballet slipper, Verenized did an elephant (I might do it next time), and Elisia did a beautiful bowl!

Secret and not so secret photos of people painting!

After ceramics, we went to Blue State Coffee, and then did a mini-photo shoot at my house. Hanging out with them was honestly well needed because lately all I've been doing is school and work related. Its important to have fun and see your friends! I hope to see my girls more frequently!

Elisia and I! 

Theresa, Me, Verenized

Elisia and I!