Ten on Tuesday | Birthday Wishes

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Where did we leave off? Oh, right, on August 2nd. I know, I know, that was a month ago. A month and one day, really. But don't worry, I'm back with my favorite blog post of the year - my birthday wishlist. (Wishlist posts are so easy, aren't they? And I'll let you in on a little secret, when your proper title is "poor MBA student," they're even easier.)

Despite knowing every word to Taylor Swift's recent hit, I'm not sure that I'm feeling twenty two. I barely feel twenty-one sometimes. Some days I feel twelve, some days I feel thirty five. That being said, I'm ready for a new year and new goals. Twenty one has been filled with glasses and braces, and not nearly enough mojitos. It happens, I guess.

This year's wishlist doesn't feel all that different from the last. (Though, I think I'll be probably okay without a hat and gloves in Albuquerque.) Once again, the items can be split into two camps. This year, my fall wish list includes the necessities -  a new business wardrobe and a few things for our house.

With all of the career workshops I've been attending lately, I can't stop flipping through the online pages of J. Crew and Banana Republic and Madewell and... Well, I've been searching for the perfect blazer for weeks now and I keep coming up short. Quite literally. You know, I didn't mean to match the shoes to the belt.

Our move also left me lusting over home decor. And at the top of my list? Matching bedding, can you imagine it? I almost can't.

I recently restored a vintage Drexel Heritage sideboard (which I'll be showing you soon!) and I've had my eyes on a few different items for the top of it, too. That metal wrapped tray from West Elm? Ugh. It'd be perfect to hold the rum for all those mojitos I haven't made.

So tell me, what's on your Fall wishlist? 

Ten on Tuesday | Moorea Seal

For some of you, this may be old news.. but, yesterday, blogger and jewelry maker Moorea Seal opened a new curated online retail store featuring jewelry, accessories, home goods, and art work. While you are able to find some of Moorea's own jewelry (see no. 7), the shop also features the work of  a multitude of other fabulous, talented women. You can read more about each designer here.  While the shop is full of beautiful, beautiful things, my favorite part of the store has to be it's mission -  "Here at Moorea Seal, we believe that with the more that one may gain, the more a person is responsible for doing something good for the world with what they have. This motivation to not only do great as a store but to do good for others at the same time is the essential factor to our business. Something really special about our site is that not only is it full of gorgeous products but there is meaning behind what we do, beyond the beauty and practical needs of the store itself. We care about bringing good into the world and my closer communities. We care about working hard, taking the hardships of life and using them as motivation to do better and be better, to do great things. Our staff and site motto is 'Do Good, Do Great.'"
7% of every purchase is donated to a non-profit organization for children's needs, caring for animals, protecting our planet, health+wellness, or women's causes. The designers were able to choose the cause of their choose and the featured non-profit will rotate, allowing the women to benefit more and more individuals. So, in addition to being able to shop by category or by designer, you can shop by social cause, too. You can shop some of my favorites here:  1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 

Ten on Tuesday | Recently Read

Though I celebrated my twenty-first birthday in September, it took me until February to share twenty one goals I planned to accomplish before I turned twenty-two. More than eight months into my twenty-first year and I've accomplished... maybe three of those goals. Some have had to be altered because of our move, some are still on my list, while others are no longer of interest, and some, like reading twenty-one books, are in progress.

During my four years of undergraduate study, I may have only read a handful of books on my own accord. I suppose I was busy with clubs, activities, and school work. But, when I finished my degree in January, I found myself with plenty of time to read. Still, books are expensive and even with a Kindle, I hesitated to purchase novels that I could finish in just a day or two. Now, with a public library card and free e-book downloads? I can't read enough.

I had originally planned to start a "Recently Read" series to review the books on my list but that seemed.. redundant. After all, I'm no book critic. Instead, I thought I would share a brief glimpse with you and tell you which ones I would recommend. Deal?

1 // The Leopard Tree is the tale of three African orphans who make their way to America to speak to United Nations leaders. While it is mostly fun, light-hearted, and easy-to-read, at times it is too unbelievable to be considered a great novel. I likely wouldn't read it again but it could make for a good, short, vacation read.

2 // Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close was in the top three of the books I've read so far this year. I haven't seen the movie but when the novel came up for my turn at the library, I took a chance. The story was thought-provoking and emotional, I found myself highlighting quote after quote, passage after passage. Though young at the time of 9/11, I was deeply affected by the book and Oskar's passion. I would love to get my hands on a physical copy of this book, it was just that good.

3 // I Am Not Myself These Days: A Memoir (P.S.) was nothing like the other books on this list - it was hilarious, raunchy, and over the top. I Am Not Myself These Days tells the story of a drag-queen in 1990's New York City. Though complete with male escorts, boobs that serve as homes to goldfish, and the trifecta of drugs, alcohol and prostitution, I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you're on the conservative side, this is definitely not for you but if you're up for feeling the heartbreak and fun of being a drag queen? I totally recommend it.

4 // The Hours... Ugh. This book. I'm not quite sure how it won a Pulitzer Prize but apparently someone, somewhere, thought it was a worthwhile read. After finishing Gone Girl (as you'll see further down the list), I was itching for another book. Trevor put this one, a remnant of his creative writing degree, in my hands and while I finished it all, I wouldn't wish it on anyone. My advice? Skip it.

5 // Chasing Rainbows is another book that fits into the "good beach read" category as the story is simple, easy-to-read, and short. While you spend much of the book feeling up and down for the main character, Bernadette, who has lost her father, her marriage, and her self-respect, it fails to really make a deep impression. (If I'm being honest, I just had to google the main character's name, I couldn't even remember - oops.)

6 // The Great Gatsby makes my list for obvious reasons. I planned to read the novel a second time before seeing the movie but its now the middle of June.. and I still haven't made it to a theatre. I don't need to tell you what its all about so I'll simply say this - if you haven't read it since high school, it's definitely worth picking up again.

7 // The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared seemed like an interesting read but less than a quarter way into it, I realized it wasn't for me. The story weaves the tale of a 100-year-old-man's life with real historical fact. If you are passionate and knowledgable on the subjects discussed? You would likely find it clever and engaging. Unfortunately, I didn't.

8 // Gone Girl. I know, I'm about a year behind on this one but can I just say it. was. so. good. This novel had me reading incessently. I took the hardcover novel to the dinner table, to the gym, to work, and to bed with me for four straight days until I managed to finish it. I'm usually not a fan of suspense, in movies and definitely not in novels, but this one took me by surprise. At times I yelled at loud, I was so shocked. Other times, I'd slam the book, infuriated with the characters. I know many readers were disappointed in the ending but I thought it was perfect. Possibly the most perfect literary ending since Anna Karenina got hit by a train. What I'm trying to say is, you should read it.

9 // Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail ties Gone Girl for my favorite book on this list. When I originally saw others raving about the novel, I thought that it was out of my interest range. Now that I've finished it? I couldn't have been more wrong. Like I said, I've been trying to convince Trevor that we should become long-distance backpackers. He's still not convinced. Wild is about more than backpacking though, the story begins with the loss of Cheryl's mother and weaves its way through the Pacific Crest Trail, full of funny anecdotes, relatable moments. While I typically read books as quickly as possible, I limited myself to only reading on my morning and evening bus rides so that I could make it last just a little bit longer. Even if you know nothing about hiking, mountains, or the PCT, Wild is relatable and a must-have for your summer reading list.

10 // Interview with the Vampire likely seems out of place on this list but it's my current read and besides, you must have realized by now that I have very variable tastes in most things, novels being no exception. Before spotting this for check-out from the library, I hadn't realized that the movie was based on a series of books. I know, I'm so clueless sometimes. Though I'm not yet finished with the book, I have to say that it is almost a hypnotic read. The thoughts, confessions, and memories of a vampire? I can't get enough. (Thankfully there are nine others books to read.)

So tell me, what books have you been reading? Have you read any of the novels that made my list? If so, what did you think?

Ten on Tuesday | Fitness Gear

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Guys, it's almost swim suit season.

The good news is that I live in a land locked state far from any beaches.

The bad news is.. well, that I'm far from any beaches.

Though I likely won't sport a bikini many times this Summer, I always feel motivated to work out this time of year. I've never been one for sports but Spring time usually means a few games of tennis, yoga workouts, and hours spent at the gym. 

When we moved to Rio Rancho, we joined what is possibly the world's most awkward gym. I really wish I was kidding but who knew that so many aspiring body builders could live in one small city? Worse yet,  they all belong to the same gym.

This weekend, we got an elliptical for the house which means fewer hours feeling intimated at the gym. While that means I could also work out in just about anything, I am in dire need of new workout clothes.

In case you're in the same predicament, I thought I might share some of my fitness favorites. While just about any leggings, tank tops, and sports bras will do, I am devoted to Saucony sneakers. During my first trip to Phoenix, I purchased my first pair (also in orange). Now, two years later, they're due for replacing and these are next on my list. 

Other fitness products that you can't take away from me include my Manduka yoga mat, which is perfectly cushioned and non-slip (an important quality for hot yoga), and my Intak water bottle. 

While I have never tried using a fitness tracker or heart rate monitor, they are definitely on my wish list. Relying on the treadmills heart rate monitor is faulty at best and while I may have gotten an accurate reading last week thanks to the cardiologist's 24-hour holter monitor.. I think this watch is definitely more stylish and discrete. 

So tell me, what are your must have fitness items? 

Ten on Tuesday | at Target

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I have a confession to make: I have spent the past few weeks throwing my entire closets worth of clothes on the floor in frustration. Poor Trevor has had to toss sweaters and leggings aside in an effort to find a pair of socks, Buddy has made himself comfortable in a nest of scarves and tank tops.

Moving from a place where it is winter nine months of the year to a place where it is sunny and seventy daily has meant a severe wardrobe challenge. While I should be wearing sandals and dresses, skirts and summer hats, my closet is only filled with sweaters, sweaters, boots, and more sweaters.

Last week I even spent three hours shopping. Three hours at four different stores.
If you know me, you know this is an accomplishment.

I went in hopes of finding some new tops suitable for graduate school classes and my project assistantships. Instead, I left with new black leggings, two skirts, two pairs of jeans, a pair of hot pink pants, and a pair of floral print leggings. While I may have gotten the deal of the century (I only spent $50!), my wardrobe is still suffering because, well, the sweater problem hasn't been solved.

If you know of any fabulous and summery tops for sale, help a girl out.
I'm dying over maxi skirts and cropped tops this season, but who isn't?

After my failed in-store shopping trip, I thought some online browsing was in order. While I was looking for tops, I got a little distracted and instead put together this Ten on Tuesday list for you. Everything pictured here is from Target with much of it sold in stores. Lately I've fallen in love with some many items pictured on other blogs.. only to realize that they are much out of my price range. I can't be the only one who can't afford a $350 tote, right? 

Oh, and confession number two? I still haven't bought sunglasses (though you can enter to win a pair here).

Other items on my wish list right now include wedge sandals, scarves in every color and some bold jewelry. Plus, I need a new bag to carry books and binders - after all, I'm starting school in three weeks. 

So tell me, what is your favorite trend this season? Any favorite stores or sales I should know about?

Ten on Tuesday | Eating Healthy All Week

Last week, a lady behind me in line at the grocery store complimented me on the pile of produce, grains and other healthy food choices I had placed on the conveyor belt. Her words inspired me to start sharing more about our gluten free lifestyle and the way that we shop for, prepare, and eat food in our home. While I happily share what I know in person, it hasn't been a widely discussed topic in this space. 

Working long days for the past two weeks has reminded me just how important it is to eat healthy and balanced meals. So, this week's Ten on Tuesday is dedicated to just that  - eating healthy all week long.






1 // Create a meal plan for the week and try your best to stick to it! 

Though the concept seems like it would make little difference in your week, meal planning is a great way to save time and eat better during the week. On Sunday mornings, I take the time to plan our meals for the week. In our house, lunches are always the same (which I’ll get to in just a moment) but we like to eat a variety of dinners. During the week, I use bloglovin to save my favorite recipe posts for inspiration since I personally find Pinterest frustrating since many great pins lack the correct recipe source. After making a tentative schedule for the week, I look at the recipes in depth and take the time to create a grocery list. I find it most effective to create my grocery list by section of the store, produce/dairy/frozen. While dinners and events do come up, sticking to a meal plan helps in fighting the urge to eat out.

2 // Speaking of groceries, buy lots of produce and always start your shopping trip in this section of the store. 

Our produce for each week includes tomatoes, onions, avocados, spinach, baby carrots, celery, apples, bananas, and watermelon at the very least - depending on the season or the meals we are planning for the week, leeks, sweet potatoes, strawberries and other produce could be added to the list. I always start my trip in the produce section because fruits and veggies take up a lot of space in my cart. Seeing a full cart makes it easier to pass by the snack foods and groceries that we don't need.

3 // Portion snacks - especially fruits and veggies - for the week.

After getting groceries put away, my first order of business is to wash and portion all of our produce. Having a pineapple or watermelon in your cart is great but at home, these things won't get eaten unless they're easy to grab. Open a bag of chips or cut up a watermelon? Yeah, that's what I thought. In addition to portioning our fruits and veggies, I also divide up chips, granola, and sweets. I'm dangerous with a whole bag of chips and so having individual sized snacks is a great way to maintain reasonable portion sizes. Plus, it makes packing lunches at 6am that much easier.

4 // Add greens. To everything.

Did you know that four cups of fresh spinach only has twenty calories? Dark leafy greens are also full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For breakfast, I put spinach into quiches. At lunch, I use leaf lettuce to keep my turkey and swiss sandwiches from getting soggy - a real bonus. For dinner, spinach is added in handfuls to pastas and risottos (adding a lot of nutritional value without a lot of added flavor) while protein heavy meals are paired with simple salads. Greens are affordable, low calories, and easy to incorporate in your diet.

5 // Make breakfasts ahead for the week.

In our house, breakfast is the only meal that we make ahead but it is perhaps the most important part of our "healthy eating" steps. On Sundays, I take the time to bake veggie-rich quiches or breakfast cups for the week. With my new job, I am up by 5:30 and prepping ahead is the only way to ensure a hot, filling, healthy breakfast. If you aren't a fan of hot or large breakfasts, yogurt with granola and fresh fruit provide quick, no-prep breakfast options.

6 // Pack lunch! 

I can't emphasize this enough! With food allergies, this point is even more important for us. Packing lunch allows you to eat healthy, to save money, and to have more time during your lunch for errands, reading, or relaxing. Lately, we have gotten in the habit of picnic lunches as often as possible. Today, we were lucky enough to share our lunch hour with sandwiches in a Santa Fe park. I always try to pack a sandwich, fresh fruit, and either chips, crackers, or pasta salad. I may also sneak a little mini-snickers bar in there but hey, everything in moderation.

7 // Keep a drawer at work stocked with healthy snacks.

Healthy shelf-stable snacks include roasted and salted almonds, homemade trail mix, and granola bars. GoPicnic also makes great meals that can be stored in a desk drawer for a last minute lunch option. In addition to keeping snacks at work, I've learned to throw a snack or two in my bag and in the console of my car. Being gluten free means that I can't just grab cookies from a vending machine or french fries at a local restaurant - but even without allergies, having snacks on hand prevents you from grabbing unhealthy treats or spending unnecessarily.

10 // Try to eat more often. 

There is controversy over the best way to schedule meals - three times a day, four times a day, six times a day. When it comes to this, I will say this, listen to your body. I am an avid breakfast eater but I find that my stomach starts to growl around 10. Likewise, after a ten hour work day, I find that I'm often starving before I finish my hour drive home. For me, eating three meals a day and snacking at least once between meals helps me feel energized and full throughout the whole day.

8 // Drink lots of water.

It is said that due to evolution, the human response to thirst is so weak that many people mistake it for hunger. This time of year, especially in the desert, drinking water is easy. That being said, many people don't realize how much water they need to drink. A good rule of thumb is to take your weight in pounds, divide it by half and this indicates the ounces of water you should be drinking daily. For instance, a 120 lb individuals should drink approximately 60oz or nearly a half gallon of water. This water requirement calculator can help provide you with a more tailored and accurate recommendation. I make sure to fill my water bottle for the drive to and from work and find that drinking during my work day keeps me awake and attentive. If you aren't a fan of straight water, try lemon or other fruit infusions!

9 // Drink less caffeine!

If you are someone who drinks caffeine with multiple meals each day, try cutting back slowly. For instance, I used to drink an iced chai in the morning with breakfast and often a soda with lunch. Now, I try to limit myself to one or the other, and usually not every day. Drinking less caffeine will eventually make it easier to wake up naturally, will keep you more hydrated, and will make getting to sleep easier.

So tell me, what are your techniques for eating healthy during the work week? None of these are "unique" or "new" ideas but instead, great reminders. Do you create a meal plan for your week? What kind of snacks do you keep at work? I'd love your suggestions! 

Ten on Tuesday | Interview Advice

Throughout the past year, I have had countless interviews - for job positions when relocating to Montana, for internships, for graduate schools, for full-time career positions here in New Mexico. These opportunities have allowed me to develop many different interview skills, skills that I have been trying to share with friends who are getting ready to finish their undergraduate degrees. As a natural extrovert and self-proclaimed "people person", interviewing has never been uncomfortable for me but I know that is not the case for everyone. Searches for interview tips yield a wide variety of results, many of which I find too vague to be useful. That's why this weeks' Ten on Tuesday is dedicated to helping you ace your next interview.

1 // Research the company (and if possible, the person) you are interviewing with. If nothing else, at the end of your interview, the interviewer is likely to ask "do you have any questions for me?" and this provides you with a great opportunity to show your knowledge of the company. Become familiar with the company's mission statement or goals and use the same key terminology when answering interview questions. (These key words could be terms such as "integrity" or "responsibility," for instance). It is impressive to know the accomplishments and if appropriate (as in the case of graduate school interviews), research interests, of the person you are addressing.

2 // Dress appropriately. This doesn't mean wearing business clothing, it goes beyond that. It is important to know what type of position you are applying for - interviewing at an interior design firm warrants a different style of dress than interviewing with a large corporation. I recently interviewed for a wide variety of jobs - I wore colorful and interesting clothing to interview for arts related positions, more formal clothing when applying to corporations, and casual dress when indicated by the hiring manager. On a side note, always arrive at an interview with a clean car and an organized bag - you never know when you will need to dig for a pen, or when an interviewer will walk you out! 

3 // Avoid drinking during an interview. Often times, you will be offered a beverage leading into your interview - a cup of coffee, a glass of water. While it may seem tempting, especially with sweaty palms and a dry throat, I suggest turning the offer down. Imagine knocking that glass of water all over the desk and paperwork in front of you, or spilling coffee down your white dress shirt.

4 // Research common interview questions and practice answering them. Most interviews cover the same types of questions, "explain a time that you gave great customer service", "explain an opportunity you had to fix a problem for a dissatisfied client", and so forth. A quick Google search will yield plenty of questions to practice.

5 // Figure out the best way to answer the question, "Why don't you tell me about yourself?" As any blogger will know, writing your "about me" page is the most difficult part of blogging. Interviewers often start with this question to see how you will handle an open ended request. It is easy to list off hobbies or interests but this question should be used to explain your strengths and accomplishments, future goals and indirectly, how that fits the company and its interests.

6 // If you are looking to enter a new field or industry, understand the industry you are looking to enter and be able to communicate why you are interested in it. Companies realize that the economy is tough and individuals are looking for jobs across many fields just in hopes of finding a good position. Even if this is the case for you, if you are looking outside of your past employment industries, understand what interests you in the field. For instance, I just took a position at a veterinary hospital - an industry out of my usual comfort zone. In my interview, rather than saying "well I love animals!," I discussed how my past experience paralleled what I thought the veterinary hospital needed.

7 // Come prepared for the interview. It isn't safe to assume that the interviewer has or has even seen your resume. Even if they have read it, it may not be handy for the interview itself. For that reason, you should always bring at least one copy of your resume, if not more. Being prepared could also mean bringing a design portfolio, a list of references, or anything other relevant materials.

8 // Bring a list of questions. This ties in to points 1 and 7 but I noticed that this was one of my weaknesses in interviewing for jobs here in New Mexico! After researching the company, you may find yourself without answers to questions like - where is this company headed in five years? What are some trends in this industry? You may also have more direct questions like - what is the dress code for this position? How are employees scheduled? It is easiest to have your questions answered in the interview, this also makes you more prepared to accept or decline a position if it is offered.

9 // Be prepared to negotiate salary. You should never be the first one to bring up this topic but you should always be prepared for the discussion. You should know what you're willing to accept when you arrive for the interview - you can determine this based on your own budget, and also by researching salary statistics for similar positions. If the position interests you but perhaps has a lower salary than you'd like, be willing to discuss benefits, or perhaps shortening the time it would take to be eligible for a raise.

10 // Apply to fewer jobs! I put this tip last because it is not actually for the interview itself but it may make your interviewing experience easier. In fact, I think this might be the best tip on the list. If you apply to a large number of jobs, you may get quite a few interviews making it more difficult to choose which jobs to interview with. You may also get interviews for positions that aren't a good fit for you, making the interview uncomfortable. Rather than sending a uniform cover letter and resume to one hundred different positions, choose a few you are really interested in and then tailor your application materials to the position, company and industry.





So tell me, what piece of advice would you add to this list? What piece of advice do you think is the most helpful?

Ten on Tuesday | Road Trip Must-Haves

I am in no way, no shape, no form, a road warrior. When we moved to Montana, I wanted nothing more than to bring my furniture but couldn't imagine the thought of driving for thirty-two hours. As we debated plans for relocating to New Mexico, I cringed every time Trevor mentioned that the drive would take seventeen hours. Especially when, at that point, I was actually going to be driving the. entire. time.

The longest that I have ever driven is four hours - a trip to the beach, a trip to Pittsburgh. I had ridden to Missouri and back (without air conditioning) but even that didn't seem like adequate preparation for driving seventeen hours. Imagine my relief when we decided that Trevor would leave two weeks early, in my car, and would fly home to drive back to New Mexico with me.

As we get ready to leave early Friday, I am finalizing the details of packing the house but also packing for the road. After plenty of trips short and long, mostly as a passenger, I have a list of items that I think are must-haves for any road trip. All the items mentioned in my Travel Essentials post still apply but this list goes above and beyond to cover specific car travel needs.

1 // While this one seems like common sense, in 2013, having a GPS is a necessity for any road trip. I often try to imagine what it would be like to travel cross country with only a map.

2 // This little gadget is something that Trevor introduced to me. This power inverter can be plugged into your cigarette lighter in order to plug in not only USB devices but regular electronics (ie. your laptop) as well. Then there is no need to worry about alternating having a charged cell phone, GPS, iPod and computer - they can all be plugged in at once. Genius.

3 // Good music is usually at the top of road trip lists. There is nothing I love better than making a specific playlist for a specific trip but , a seventeen hour trip is a little too long for that. Thankfully Trevor and I both have our own iPod Classic with over 15,000 songs - and that means not hearing the same thing twice.

4 // I hate trying to guess where and when to eat while traveling. You may pass a plaza of McDonalds and Subway, only to realize it's dinnertime and the next restaurant isn't for an hour. I love using the Urbanspoon App for my iPhone to find food options.

5 // Staying hydrated is important when traveling and while we often stop for drinks, I tend to find myself wanting more. I've made it a habit to not only buy a drink at stops but to also fill my water bottle for the next few hours.

6 // Being gluten free makes traveling much harder. I make sure to pack plenty of healthy snacks whether traveling my road or air. KIND makes these Mini Bars which are perfectly filling and easy to pack.

7 // You may feel well protected under a car roof but research has shown that deadly skin cancers are more likely to occur on the left side of the body - the side exposed to the sun while driving. Having a good sunscreen is important for long hours on the road. This sunscreen from Eco is made of all natural ingredients and was rated as "very good" by Consumer Reports.

8 // If you're lucky enough to be a passenger for a long car ride, movies (especially funny movies) are a necessity. No matter how many times I see 21 Jump Street, I laugh just as hard.

9 // In the past few weeks I have fallen in love with my Kindle. I used to pack multiple books and magazines, only to find that I hadn't packed quite enough. Having a Kindle with 3G solved that problem because books can be downloaded at any time without needing WiFi access.

10 // While you obviously need gasoline for any road trip, I threw this in to symbolize having a roadside assistance plan. I really can't think of  anything worse than ending up locked out of your car or with a flat tire especially when alone or in an unfamiliar area. While AAA is a classic, I have roadside assistance through my AT&T cellphone plan. At less than $3 per month, it's great for peace of mind when traveling!

So tell me, what are your road trip must-haves? What else should I add to my packing list?

Ten on Tuesday | Decor Inspiration

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I would be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to having a new space. While I love certain elements of our Montana home - the O'Keefe and Merritt range in our kitchen, the gas fireplace in our living room, the aqua blue bathroom we remodeled ourselves - the house is dark, the living room is painted multiple colors, and our bedroom is in desperate need of some work.

As I mentioned Sunday, I've been day dreaming about bright colorful bedding and our decor. I'm hoping to create a gallery wall behind our couch - a way to display my photography, odds and ends like Trevor's "rude dog" license plate and all of the original art we've collected. I'm also itching for patterned throw pillows and making our own storage from brightly painted wooden crates.

Without a real to-do list now that I'm finished by first degree, I find myself with a lot of free time. Since it's a little early to pack everything away, I've been spending a lot of time browsing through Pinterest, home decor blogs, my favorite stores, and the worst of it all, Apartment Therapy. 

Considering that I'd already done the research, bookmarked articles, and pinned inspiration, I thought I would share with you 10 blog posts that are inspiring me with color schemes, DIY projects, and more.

1 // 9 Gallery Walls Done Right

2 // DIY Light-Up Wall Art 

3 // Tufted Headboard Tutorial 

4 // Pegboard Bedroom Wall

5 // Funky Desk Makeover
6 // Mudroom Organization

7 // Creating a Cabinet Pin Board
8 // DIY Map Art 

9 // Thrifted Spice Drawer

10 // Stained Crate Nightstands

So tell me, what DIY home decor ideas are on your list? Where is your favorite place to look for inspiration? Know any great places to find affordable throw pillows or an affordable alternative to this quilt? I'm all ears.

Ten on Tuesday | New Mexico Plans

I guess this is our way of telling you, those of you who haven't already heard, that it's decided - we're moving to New Mexico. When I started this blog post at 5:15 this morning, I was thrilled, high on the excitement or a new job, a new school, a new place. Now, after another day of house searching? Well, I'm not writing with quite as much enthusiasm.

If you've followed the record of my travels, you may realize that I've never actually been to the Land of Enchantment. That being said, I feel as though I've wandered through the state vicariously from Trevor's stories, photos, and dreams of someday, one day visiting together.

Now, as we're making real, tentative plans to not only visit but to move to the state, I've got a list of places I'd like to see and things I'd like to do when we get there.

1 // The Taos Pueblo ranks high on my list of places to see because of Trevor's attachment to the area.  I find it astonishing that an adobe pueblo could be inhabited for more than 1,000 consecutive years. Now, 150 people live within the pueblo full-time without running water or electricity.

2 // Each fall, Santa Fe builds and burns the world's largest marionette, the Zozobra. Also known as "Old Man Gloom", the giant figure is filled with scraps of paper containing the troubles and worries of the cities inhabitants. The idea is that in burning Zozobra, all the worries and troubles of the year will also be burned away.

3 // The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was on my list for 2012 - when Trevor moved to Montana, I hatched a crazy plan for us to meet in Albuquerque. For obvious reasons, we never made it. The fiesta is the largest annual international event held in the U.S., and the most photographed event in the world. Hopefully in 2013 I'll be there to photograph it myself.

4 // If you're familiar with Natural Born Killers, you will know why seeing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge makes my list. Unfortunately, I think it is a bit of a lofty goal (ha!) considering my fear of heights - after all, it is the 10th highest bridge in the country.

5 // Perhaps the most nonchalant item on my list is a visit to Tribe's Coffeehouse. While it may not be "the old dirty Tribes" of Trevor's stories, his handwriting is still on the walls. Besides, I've heard about Mama Tribes' chai recipe for years.

6 // The Santa Fe Indian Market is my second nod to Native American Culture. I'm always intrigued by art festivals and one filled with turquoise, culture, jewelry and pottery is obviously at the top of my list.

7 // When I first started actively searching out great photographers, I came across a series of portraits a photographer had taken of her perhaps five-year-old daughter. The portraits were to celebrate her birthday and while the little girl was dressed in a pink, short-sleeved princess gown, she walked barefooted in what looked like snow. Ever since seeing that series of photos, visiting White Sands National Monument has been on my bucket list.

8 // Though not Catholic, I am always impressed with cathedral architecture and stained glass. For that reason, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and seeing the spiral staircase at the Loretto Chapel make my list.

9 // The Pecos National Historical Park is another site that makes my list because of its importance to Trevor. While I don't know much about the history of the Pecos Pueblo itself, I wouldn't pass up the opportunity to see preserved wagon ruts from the Old Santa Fe Trail or the Glorieta Pass Battlefield.

10 // In our bathroom hang several small original paintings from New Mexico, one of which features the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks. After visiting Sedona, I became enamored with volcanic rock formations and can't wait to visit these which were produced six or seven million years ago.



So tell me, have you ever been to New Mexico? Any of the places I've mentioned? What do I need to add to my list?

Ten on Tuesday | THON Essentials

Three years ago, I was given the opportunity to stand awake and on my feet for forty-six hours straight. If you're not familiar with the Penn State Dance Marathon, you may be questioning why I call this an "opportunity." Each year, more than 15,000 student volunteers from all twenty Penn State campuses come together to make up what is the world's largest student-run philanthropy. A philanthropy that raised more than $10.69 for the Four Diamonds Fund, pediatric cancer patients and research last year. These volunteers serve a variety of functions - some serve as captains of committees like public relations or technology, others serve as members of the hospitality or entertainment committees. Other students participate in THON by joining an organization or fundraising as an independent dancer couple.

During my time volunteering for THON, it was as a student at Penn State's York campus. For two years, I gave the majority of my free time to fundraising for our organization - writing donation letters, canning on the side of local highways, and planning events. My fundraising efforts as a freshman allowed me the opportunity to dance in THON 2010, a weekend that I still consider the best of my life. Really, it's that great. Then, as a sophomore I chaired our organized alongside one of my best friends and together we were able to lead a group of students in raising more than $17,000, an accomplishment that I am still incredibly proud of.

As a junior, I could no longer afford Penn State's tuition and transferred to Millersville. While I enjoyed my two years at Millersville, I missed THON immensely and continue to miss it even now. That being said, I try to stay involved by donating to the organization and keeping in contact with several Four Diamonds families. While anyone is able to attend THON weekend, I will be unable to fly home for the event this year and so instead, I wanted to share with you what this organization is about. If you want to learn more, check out this video my organization made in 2011 or any of the videos created by the THON technology committee.


If you would like to make tax-deductible donation to THON, you can do so online.
If you choose to donate, I would love for you to credit Harrisburg or York for the amount.

This year, I have several friends who will be dancing, including my beautiful best friend and former family relations chair of our organization, Hana, who you might recognize from all the posts I've written about her (see here, here and here. Over the past few weeks, I have been texting her every time a bit of THON advice crossed my mind and so, as this weekend, THON weekend, quickly approaches, I thought a list of THON essentials would be a great last-minute packing list for her and the other dancers I know.

When you're getting ready to stand for forty-six hours in a bright, colorful and crowded gym, there are a lot of things you're going to need...

1 // Each dancer is assigned to a color wars color and for Hana that's green, a color she will likely wear for a majority of the weekend. Furthermore, dancers love to show their passion for THON and the Four Diamonds Fund and this shirt would allow Hana to do both.

2 // Sunglasses are important for dancers who will be spending two straight days under bright fluorescent lights. Between two THON weekends, I probably went through eight pairs of glasses that seem to get broken, dropped and lost every few hours. These affordable, fun sunglasses from Target would be a great choice for dancers.

3 // Fanny packs are definitely out of style except for two days of the year. Dancers are typically dressed in leggings, shorts or funny costumes - all without pockets. A fanny pack is the perfect place to keep Chapstick, gum, and tennis balls (a necessity for rubbing your aching feet!). While THON provides dancers with a small, dark blue one at the start of the weekend, having a a colorful fanny pack is definitely more fun.

4 // Great sneakers are an important part of surviving THON weekend, for obvious reasons. These bright and colorful ones are sure to fit in with the dancing crowd. 

5 // While dancers are sure to pack a real toothbrush and toothpaste for the weekend, I loved having these little Colgate Wisps. In my opinion, the hardest part of THON was dealing with the bathroom lines and that's saying a lot considering how bad your feet hurt by hour forty-six. These can be picked up at any supermarket or drugstore and help dancers feel refreshed without fighting for a sink. 

6 // Colorful socks are as necessary as colorful sneakers. And dancers should make sure they pack plenty - fresh socks feel great for tired feet.

7 // Color-wars themed shoelaces are also a fun addition. I kept bright orange laces in a pair of pink sneakers for weeks after I danced.

8 // Going a whole weekend without showering is hard especially with long hair. While dancers can wash their hair in a bathroom sink, the lines are long and the process uncomfortable. When I danced dry shampoo wasn't an option but I made sure that Hana put it on her packing list. 

9 // On a similar note, oil blotting sheets help dancers look their best without having to wait in line or fight for a bathroom sink. It's hard to look good for forty-six hours - my THON photos are proof of that. 

10 // Dealing with my hair and makeup was definitely the biggest hassle of THON weekend. I wish I had chosen my current hair style a few years ago, instead. Though Hana donated 12 inches of her hair to Wigs for Kids last week, she still has plenty & these non-tug elastic hair ties are perfect for the long weekend.

So tell me, had you ever heard of the Penn State Dance Marathon? Would you ever stand on your feet and awake for forty-six hours straight for a great cause?

Ten on Tuesday | Valentine's Gifts for Him

I may or may not have just gotten around to buying Trevor a Valentine's Day gift today. Worse yet, I  may have found said gift while researching for this post - but don't worry, I didn't ruin the surprise. That being said, maybe you've waited to find the perfect gift, too. If so, you're in luck as today's Ten on Tuesday features non-traditional gift ideas for the man you're shopping for - most of which are Trevor approved (except maybe the whiskey stones, since those are actually on my wish list). There's still time to order online but if you're nervous about the deadline, perhaps this list will inspire your own shopping trip this week. I'd love to know what you choose.

1 // A Crosby portable record player is a great gift for any man who has a passion for music. Plus, hunting for vinyl together at local thrift stores is always a fun weekend hobby. As I mentioned in my goals post this weekend, putting a record player in our house is on the top of my to-do list.

2 // Trevor was the inspiration behind this pick since he's in need of a new alarm clock. Cell phones are great for a lot of things but one of those is not checking the time in the middle of the night. While the clap-on, clap-off feature is a bit of a novelty, this clock has a fun wooden design and it runs on batteries.

3 // These magnets are an ode to both loves in my life. Perhaps Buddy isn't quite bright enough to recognize magnets in his honor but they'd still provide a good laugh on our fridge. If your love doesn't happen to love Pit Bulls, Fab.com features magnets for other dog breeds, too.

4 // A new watch is perhaps the most classic gift on the list. That being said, this watch from Red Line is a little edgier than most with its black and red features. It just so happens that these colors happen to be Trevor's favorite.

5 // If your guy loves sports, but you aren't up for watching or attending his favorite game as part of a Valentine's Gift this year, a LeRoy Neiman print might be the best compromise. Art and sports - the best of both worlds.

6 // I happen to live with a chef who would find new kitchen knives to be a great gift (in fact, that's what I got for our first Christmas). If your guy is into cooking, or maybe you just want him to be more into cooking, this knife set is a comical and perfect addition to a bachelor's kitchen. While most guys love chrome, other colors are available too.

7 // While there is no link for this one, a bottle of his favorite liquor makes a great gift. If I was shopping, it'd definitely be for a bottle of Pernod, an anise liquor from France. (And if you aren't celebrating Valentine's Day with a guy this year, consider a bottle swap with the ladies in your life. If you do, make sure to include me on your list.)

8 // Trevor happens to be a coffee connoisseur and I know he would love a bag of french roast coffee beans from Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Perhaps your beau has a favorite roaster or a favorite flavor of coffee, too - even his favorite K-Cups make for a thoughtful and fairly inexpensive gift.

9 // As I mentioned, I've been eyeing up these whiskey stones for that bar cart I've been dreaming of. Any guy is sure to love these as they are able to keep drinks cool without absorbing or diluting any flavor. Plus, these allow you to skip my least favorite task - filling ice cube trays.

10 // Most guys aren't thrilled with the idea of his and hers pillow cases, these caught my eye. Lately, we seem to choose The Dark Knight Rises over any other movie in our collection and so for us, these pillows are the perfect fit. It also helps that my guy has a total crush on cat woman. 


So tell me, have you already finished shopping and planning for Valentine's Day? Or perhaps you haven't even started? If you've found the perfect gift for the guy in your life, do share in the comments - I'd love to know what's been on his wish list. After all, May isn't far away.