Purple Monkey

Giants Won the Superbowl

2012-02-05T22:56:00.000-05:00

.... And beating the Patriots was SO much better the second time around.

I've always been a huge New York Giants fan, and tonight my guy Eli won for the second time against Tom Brady. I was literally on the edge of my seat for the entire fourth quarter, but it was totally worth it.

They truly played an amazing game and an amazing season.

I'm so proud to be a Giants fan!

Now, I'm super sad that football season is over, but so ready to see what my team has in store for next season.

Instagram Love

2012-01-28T17:46:00.000-05:00

My obsession with instagram has reached an all-time high. I love all the different filters and being able to "mupload" to Facebook is a great addition that I'm sure my Facebook friends hate.

Here are some of my instagram pictures from the past few weeks

{An afternoon trip to the pet store just for fun; my favorite coffee shop at school}

{A Friday night out with my friends}

{Pretty nail polish; a cup of yogi tea before bed}

{A snowstorm that hit home the day before I came back to school}

{Watching my Giants win against the Packers a few weeks ago}

I hope you're having a great Saturday! xo

Things I've Learned in College (Part One)

2012-01-26T23:50:00.000-05:00

I successfully have re-adjusted to college life after over a month home on break.

It's great to be back and surrounded by my friends, and I love a majority of the classes I'm taking this semester.

Transitioning from living at home to living almost two hours away was difficult, but I've learned a few wonderful (and not so wonderful) things about college life.

{At our swim team Christmas party in December}

1) It's never a good idea to go out and party before an 8 AM class or practice....

.... and yet for some reason week after week we go out anyway. And we always regret it. Gotta live while we're young!

2) Too much money will be spent on coffee and Wawa...

.... but it's totally worth it. (For those who don't know what Wawa is, it's a convenience store that always makes food and is open 24/7)

3) The library becomes your second home....

... and you will have your favorite places to study.

4) There's always people around....

.... and therefore always someone to talk to when you need them.

5) College will be the best time of your life....

..... but when you do go home, you'll appreciate your family so much more.

Bucket List

2012-01-16T19:21:00.001-05:00

Now that I'm 18 and officially an adult, I thought it might be a good time to create "My Bucket List". There's so many things I want to do and instead of saying "Oh, let's do ___ one day", I think it's better to write it all down and commit to actually doing these things.

I've had an ongoing list written on paper. I'll be updating the list as I come up with ideas.... but I absolutely can not wait to work on what I have as soon as possible!

This Week I....

2012-01-15T16:52:00.000-05:00

.... treated myself to oatmeal, fresh strawberries, and fresh brewed coffee for a healthy breakfast.

..... didn't get out of my PJ's until well after noon for quite a few days

..... splurged on some new Lululemon (a scuba hoodie, infinity scarf, and headband) during a mini shopping trip with my friend

..... bought all new makeup that I feel gorgeous in
.... snuck frozen yogurt into the movie theater when I saw The Descendants (which was super sad and super awesome)
..... went out to lunch with my parents and grandparents, who are visiting from South Dakota
.... watched way too many episodes of Raising Hope
.... got new glasses so that I can see in style

Sometimes the little treats during the week are a reminder of how much you love yourself.

Lately

2012-01-10T22:12:00.000-05:00

I finally got over the stomach flu, but not after a full 4 days of it. It was absolutely terrible, and I had to cancel my flight twice before finally being able to fly down on Sunday afternoon, only to have to return home again this morning. I really only went down so I could meet with my foot doctor down there. I know it sounds like a little much (to fly to Florida for a doctor's appointment), but I have had terrible experiences with the orthopedic doctors here, and my uncle is a doctor in Florida so he is able to make appointments for me with some amazing ones. Plus, I have a ton of family there and a house, so it is really quite easy to spend a few nights there without paying a lot of money.

The news I got at the doctors was really upsetting. When I broke my foot six weeks ago (which I still can't believe it's already been 6 weeks), I was told it would only take four to six weeks to heel. I'm still in pain a bit, so I figured I'd probably have another week or so in the boot. But the doctor told me I'd probably need another four to six weeks in the walking boot. Basically, I'm not a happy camper.

In other news, how cute is the photo of me and my mama? I love her! It's from New Years Eve.

I have two more weeks at home until I go back to school. I'm excited for the next semester, but also excited for some relaxing and hanging out with friends and family until then. My grandparents are here from South Dakota for the next week, which is also exciting since I rarely see them.

What have you been up to lately? xo

Sick Day

2012-01-04T20:19:00.000-05:00

I'm starting my new year off with a nasty case of the stomach flu or something similar.

I woke up this morning not feeling great, but since it's my gym day I dragged myself to do the limited workout I can right now and then went home, only to spend the rest of the day alternating between the bathroom and my couch.

Having the flu with a broken foot may be the worst combo ever.

Here's hoping i feel better fast because I'm supposed to go back to Florida on Friday.

Be back soon {I hope}! xo

2012

2012-01-01T17:34:00.000-05:00

Year in Review {2011}

2011-12-31T18:25:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it is time again for a Year in Review post. It seems like this year simply flew by. I actually can't believe we're getting ready for 2012.... I've just gotten used to writing 2011 on all my exams!

A lot has happened this year....

2011

January

I welcomed 2011- a year that I believed would be full of change

I set my "24 in 12" list

I ended a long distance relationship that broke my heart

I decided to try to go all natural

I battled a major snow blizzard

I aimed to focus more on holistic health

February

I went to my last Semi-Formal in high school

I went to my last high school swim meet

I mourned the loss of two friend's fathers, and learned to appreciate my own

March

I celebrated my dad's birthday

The deadly earthquake and tsunami hit Japan....

.... And I think the entire blog world spoke up to support the country

I freaked out about prom

I spoke up more about yoga

April

My little sister turned 15

I headed to Florida for spring break

I saw Lady Gaga in concert

My sister had a major health scare

May

Our troops did something amazing

I celebrated a day for my Mama

I had my Senior Swim banquet

I went to the 2011 Yoga Journal Conference in NYC

I went to Senior Prom

I went on a date {followed by many, many more}

I started work again

June

I gave my Senior Thesis presentation

My little sister had major heart surgery

I celebrated a day for my Daddy

I graduated from High School

July

I celebrated the fourth of July

I went to a concert

I turned 18!

August

I broke up with summer boyfriend

I went to Italy and Switzerland

I went to college during a hurricane

September

I hurt my shoulder swimming

October

I got the flu

November

I celebrated my mom's birthday

I broke my foot

December

I returned to blogging
I went to florida to celebrate the holidays

It's been a good and bad year, but I'm really looking forward to having 2012 be an injury free one.
Here's to 2011 and bring on 2012!

Have a wonderful New Year's Eve! xo

Snapshots from Florida {Part One}

2011-12-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

Every year, we celebrate Christmas in Florida. My family came down two friday's ago, and I came down the Sunday before Christmas, after my finals were over. I love spending Christmas in Florida, and while a part of me misses spending the holidays up north, I don't mind the 80 degree temperatures and sunny skies that Florida brings. Plus, it's great spending the holidays with my grandma and uncle here.

We're leaving on Friday, but I'm coming back on Wednesday for another few days. My team is coming to train for a week down here, and while my broken foot and injured shoulder are preventing me from coming with them, I'm going to come down and spend some time with them.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T22:42:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend! I absolutely love Christmas, and in my opinion it came a little too quickly this year, but that's okay. Have a wonderful holiday and I'll be back on Monday!

P.S Since I never got around to posting all of my vacation photos (I'll do that, I promise), here's some pictures from Italy and Switzerland. xo

The Quote Wall

2011-12-22T21:40:00.000-05:00

Around halfway through my first semester at college, I started looking at quotes a lot and really started to think about how they relate to my life. I started a quote wall (it's actually two walls) on my side of my dorm room as a way to get rid of the white brick walls and make the space more inviting. When I get back I'll be sure to take a picture of it to show you, but for now an explanation will have to do.

On my desktop I have tons of quotes that I still need to print out. I love each and every one of them, and I want to share a few with you. Some of them are truly spectacular.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 {Last Minute Gifts}

2011-12-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

My comeback to the blog world has come a little late for an actual gift guide. But for those of you who are still searching for last minute gifts or stocking stuffers, well, I have your back.

1. Starry Necklace (JCrew)
2. Glittery Iphone Case (JCrew)
3. Unique Laptop Case (Free People)
4. Puzzle Necklace (Anthropologie)
5. Maui Perfume (MCMC)
6. Stripped Slipper (JCrew)
7. Zodiac Sign Bracelet (Free People)
8. Funny Book (Amazon)

All of these places offer next day shipping for a small price! Or head to your local store to pick up these gifts.
What are you giving for Christmas?

I'm Back! The Story of The Past Three Months

2011-12-20T21:51:00.000-05:00

It's been three months since I wrote on this blog. I've missed writing here so much, but struggled with deciding whether or not I should come back. You see, when I moved out of my house and to college more then three months ago, I didn't really know what to expect. But I ended up having the best and worst first semester possible.

Let me explain.

The Highlights:

1) I moved in during the big hurricane that hit the northeast during August. I know what you're thinking, how is this a highlight? And it actually was terrible. I had no umbrella because apparently that was the one thing I forgot and the power went out on our second day, leaving us with no way to charge our phones and eventually no hot water to shower. However, the fact that we had no power made me able to meet some of my best friends in college. With nothing to do, we ended up just walking into each others room and introducing ourselves. I think without the hurricane issue, we wouldn't have been so eager to meet each other.

2) I was already recruited to swim at my college back before I got accepted, but being a part of the team was one of the best experiences ever. I'm so glad I decided to be a part of the team, because I met some of my other best friends. Our memories were really great.

There's so many other highlights, way too many to even explain. From the 1 AM trips to wawa with my friends, to the time I fell all the way down a flight of stairs at a party and ended up with a massive bruise on my butt, to homecoming. It was really a wonderful first semester and I'm really excited to go back at the end of January....

.... which brings me to the lowlights. Most swimmers have to go back in the beginning of January to train. Let me explain why I won't be going back then....

The Lowlights

1) The second week of school I got bronchitis. This isn't really news for me, because I get it a lot, and I actually have it now too so it really isn't a huge deal.

2) Towards the end of October, I started experiencing intense shoulder pain when I trained for swimming. I had experienced some pain in April of this year, but nothing like this. I kept swimming, just modifying when I needed to. But in the beginning of October, I couldn't sleep at night and could barely lift my arm over my head. Not good. Over fall break, I got an MRI and was told that I had a multidirectional problem. I was told I'd be out of swimming through December and would need to do physical therapy. I was obviously upset that I wouldn't be able to compete in our first few meets, but I took it very seriously. I was also told if it didn't improve I would most likely need surgery in January. As the weeks went by, I went to one hour of PT everyday in our sports medicine department. I also continued training, kicking in the pool or biking for 90-120 minutes everyday. But my shoulder wasn't getting any better, and surgery seemed like the only viable option. I set up a second appointment with a doctor in NYC to get another opinion. He told me I had been misdiagnosed and that I had a nerve impingement in my shoulder. This means a sac in my shoulder is filled with fluid, causing rubbing with the bone and nerve and thus causing intense pain. He told me if I had been diagnosed correctly I would have been back in the pool, but because I wasn't I'd be out until March. It was incredibly upsetting to hear this, but I planned to just focus on next season and continue to bike and kick.

3) I didn't get a chance to do that though. The day I got back from Thanksgiving, I tripped on the stairs coming out of my Psych class and heard a huge crack in my foot. Apparently, but luck got worse because I broke my foot. They thought I was going to need surgery on that too, but again, I got lucky.

I know I should be incredibly happy I won't need surgery in either of my injuries, but it's hard. I can't work out my upper body due to the nerve damage in my shoulder and I can't work out my lower body because of my broken foot, so I've basically been doing 500-800 ab exercises every day in an attempt to stay somewhat in shape. It's hard, because I've always been such an active person, and now I can't do anything.

Oh and I got the flu in October. But that's minor compared to everything else.

Either way, it's been a great semester, but I am hoping next semester has maybe a little less injury and a little more recovery.

Either way, I have had trouble about whether or not continuing blogging would be worth it. But then I thought about how this season is my absolute favorite time to blog. I love doing gift lists {I'll be doing a last minute one tomorrow} and the year in review. It really is my favorite time of the year and I love sharing it with everyone.

Plus, I started reading everyone's blogs again and I remembered why I love blogging. Some of the blog friends I've made are amazing, and I can't wait to keep meeting people.
So I hope you're ready to be a part of my life again. I'm sure ready to be a part of all of yours.

Here are some photos from the past three months at school:

Across from my dorm is an Italian place owned by a Greek family. Weird, but so good.

Pre-Bio final studying

The day I broke my foot

That time we got six inches of snow in October.

One of my friend's birthdays. We baked her a cake.

Homecoming 2011

Victory! When we won a football game.

My best friend on the swim team Sidney and I

How have all of you been? xo

Lake Como, Italy- Bellagio {Cooking Class}

2011-09-13T23:37:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to continue sharing my photos from my trip to Italy and Switzerland in August! Going through them again makes me miss it so much more, but I'm really grateful for the opportunity.

On our first day in Bellagio, we took a cooking class. It was one of the highlights of my trip.

Our instructor was the head chef at a little Italian restaurant high on the side of the mountain in Bellagio. We took the class with two other families, and one woman who was taking it without her family. The two families had little babies; one was a baby boy from Holland and one was a baby girl from Australia. They were absolutely precious and so well-behaved.

{Waiting for the ferry to take us from our hotel to Bellagio}

{One of the things we made was pasta in three different flavors: plain, beet, and spinach. I made the spinach one above.}

{We also made stuffed zucchini flowers. Here I am stirring the flowers in a delicious broth.}

{The action shot of making pasta! Kneading the dough is much harder then it looks because it's so sticky.}

{I thought the colors of the pasta were gorgeous. Our chef put everything through the pasta maker for us.}

{We cut the pasta into strips, and created a pattern on a sheet of plain pasta. Then our chef ran it through the pasta maker to create this.}

{Our fancy pasta was used to make homemade raviolis.}

{The outside terrace where we all at lunch was covered in vines and grapes.}

{My wonderful parents.}

{Here I am earning my certificate for completing the course, with our head chef.}

{We had two desserts: one was a chocolate soufflé...}

{.... the other was a pistachio creme brûlée covered in fresh fruits.}

{We made four different dishes for the main lunch: risotto, gnocchi, Bolognese (which I didn't eat), and the ravioli.}

{My sister and I}

{The stuffed zucchini flower.}

Doesn't the food look delicious? It's making my mouth water!

September Music Playlist

2011-09-12T21:19:00.001-04:00

I've been slacking big time with the playlist, so this one is extra special. It's actually a bunch of random songs, but a lot of them express my mood or are favorites from my time at home.

I can't believe we're already half way through September. It's still brutally hot during the day here in my new town in Pennsylvania. I'm not gonna lie, I miss the cool ocean air of my beachside town in NJ. But at night, especially when I walk back from the library late or practice, it's nice and cool and I can cozy up in a big sweatshirt.

Here's the September playlist!

If I Die Young The Band Perry

Rise Up Diane Birch

Across the Universe Fiona Apple

The Heart of the Matter India.Arie

Banana Pancakes Jack Johnson

Today Joshua Radin

Enjoy! xo

9/11, Ten Years Later

2011-09-11T16:30:00.000-04:00

Ten years ago, I was eight.

I didn't know much about death, destruction, or lose. I had never lost someone close to me.

Ten years ago, I woke up like any other day. I got ready for school.

A little after 9 AM, my teacher ran out. No one could understand what was going on.

People were crying, and I really didn't understand anything.

Throughout the day, people left from my classes. My friend burst into tears.

His daddy worked in NYC.

Ten years ago, we didn't really no what was going on.

I left school early that day. My mom wanted me home.

She explained what happened to me.

I cried and cried.

My dad used to work right next to the towers. Two years before 9/11, he moved buildings. I don't even want to think about what would have happened if he hadn't.

My friends daddy died that day. His life, and the lives of thousands of other people, were never the same.

I live in central New Jersey, so NYC is my second home. I'm there all the time. My mom lived in that city for years while she was in school. On September 11, 2001, as I drove home from school, I saw firetrucks, ambulances, and police cars from my town make their way to NYC to try to help. I could see the smoke billowing in the sky in the distance from my porch.

I can't believe it's been ten years already. That day is still fresh in my mind. Whenever I used to go to the beach as a kid, I could see the twin towers in the skyline. Obviously, there's nothing to see now.

Being so close to NYC, it obviously hit very close to home.

The thing is, I'll never forget this day. Never will I be able to. I'll always remember the day when America changed. Maybe we changed for the better. We were suddenly closer and more patriotic.

It's been ten years since that day, but it feels like it was yesterday.

To anyone who lost a loved one on that day, I'm sorry. They'll be in all of our thoughts and prayers forever.

God Bless America.

I'm Back!

2011-09-09T14:51:00.000-04:00

So my little week long break from blogging turned out to be much longer then I thought it would.

College has been an overwhelming experience and I've needed the last two weeks to move in, make friends, and get used to not being at home.

The first weekend here was insane. I moved in, and then my parents left and suddenly I was all alone. My roommate, Megan, and I kind of wandered around aimlessly the first twenty four hours because we had no idea what to do.

And then we made friends! It's nice being a swimmer on the Division One varsity swim team because I instantly have a group of friends and have really bonded with a specific few of them, which is great. Other then that, I've made a few really great friends on my floor that I love. It was weird to have to put myself out there and make brand new friends, but I love the one's I've made.

On my third day, Saturday, Hurricane Irene hit. We lost power and ended up not having it until late Monday afternoon. The first day of classes were canceled, we lost hot water, and we had to head over to the local coffee shop to charge our phones.

It was an interesting way to start college.

Here are some pictures from my first two weeks of school!

How are all of you? What have you been up to?

Starting next week, I'll be back to semi-regular posts. I probably won't post everyday, but I'll be back to Monthly Music Posts, Style Story Sunday, and some other interesting ideas.

Next week I'll also work on finishing up my vacation pictures!

Have a great Friday! xo

{From the Past} Big News

2011-08-28T17:01:00.000-04:00

{This week, while I move to another state and prepare to start college, I'm posting some of my favorite posts that I've written since I started my blog. I hope you enjoy revisiting these with me. I'll be back on Monday, 8.29.11! xo}

*This was originally posted on Tuesday, 12.18.10*

i made it to Florida everyone.
I'm just here checking up before I start my day.
The flight went by quickly last night!
We got upgraded to first class, which was a lovely surprise.

But what made my night even more lovely....
Was...
While standing in the Security line my mom got a call from our neighbor.
I knew my admissions letter from college was coming any day now, so my neighbor was instructed to read it to me over the phone, good or bad.
I really really didn't think I was going to get in.
Even though a was recruited to swim, I just didn't feel I was going to get in.

But over the phone last night, she told me
that I was accepted!!!

to my number one college!
the one I applied early decision to!
the one i fell in love with.
everything about it!
I screamed. and almost cried.
i am so happy.

{note: screaming in the security line is not a good idea. they will pat you down because of it}

i had a smile on my face all night. and all day today.

in the words of my dad "i have never been prouder of you your entire life"
that really made me cry.

it's a great start to the holidays.
and now I can finally relax this bundle of stress i have become!
have a great day:)
xo

{From the Past} Iconic Females

2011-08-27T17:01:00.000-04:00

*This was originally posted on Tuesday, 5.12.11*

I have a board on my pinterest where I post photographs of musicians, actors, and humanitarians I consider to define the word "iconic".
Lately, I've been noticing something interesting.
I consider a lot of people from before my time to be iconic, but there are also those select few from these past few years that I think will go right up there in history with the Marilyns and Audreys as people we will relate to.

I know we are all surrounded by the Snookies, Lindsay's, and Paris Hilton's of the world, but it is important to remember the individuals of our past that have an amazing influence on society, and recognize those here today as contributors to the future.

Here is my Iconic List, then and now:

Then

Grace Kelly

Elizabeth Taylor

Audrey Hepburn

Bridget Bardot

Ella Fitzgerald

Jane Birkin

Zelda Fitzgerald

Marilyn Monroe

Now

Sofia Coppola

Drew Barrymore

Alison Sudol

Gwyneth Paltrow

Sandra Bullock

Kate Hudson (in Almost Famous)

Adele

Amy Adams

Kate Winslet

Goldie Hawn

Reese Witherspoon

Florence Welch

Of course, this is just a fraction of the iconic females that have changed our world. But I think the "Now" category deserves just as much credit as the "Then" category.

Who are your most iconic individuals in history?

{From the Past} Tears

2011-08-26T17:01:00.000-04:00

*This was originally posted on Tuesday, 5.17.11*

{here}

{I've had this saved for awhile now. I remember having a terrible night and just wishing something would make me feel better. Writing seems to always do the trick, doesn't it?}

Ever since I was little, when I was upset and crying, when the tears poured down my face, I would climb into the shower.
I chose to seek solace in the warm water, which ran down my face like raindrops.
I would stand under the shower head for what seemed like hours.
Maybe it had to do with my years of being a swimmer, being emerged in the water.
Maybe it had to do with the comfort that water seemed to bring to me.
Whatever it was, to this day, I still go into the shower to let the tears flow.

I used to think the reason I did it was because I liked the gentle feeling of the water against my skin.
That the soft hum of the shower, the drops against the tile, and way it hit my skin brought a glimmer of joy.
I used to think the steam could wash away the problems.

But one day I realized the true reason I sought the shower for comfort when the storm in my life brewed.
I went to the shower because, for those 10 minutes or so, the stream of water hitting my face made everything okay.
The stream of water mixed with my tears and made me forget that I was crying; that everything was not okay.

{From the Past} Don't Worry, Be Happy

2011-08-25T17:01:00.001-04:00

*This was originally posted on Thursday, 10.21.10*

i need to change.
no not change my personality, change my outlook.

i'm generally 99.9% of the time a easy-going, carefree, chill person.
i have always had the outlook that life's always better with a smile.
that's not to say I don't get upset and cry... because when I get upset (and I do get upset) you should stay far away because oh boy do I cry.
but I believe there's no point in staying upset for long. nothing is worth being upset. nothing.

now let's get personal:
i've changed a lot since my freshmen year of high school.
i use to stress out a lot and worry.
I had anxiety, got depressed, and even struggled with a bit of an eating disorder when I was younger.
and then i started yoga.
and it changed my life.
and now, I honestly believe in living each day like it's your last.
there's too much to worry about, so why worry?
there's a lot of sadness, but there's also so much happy, so why be depressed?
and as for that little eating disorder?
I have come to realize what my body can do. not what it doesn't look like.

anyway that's a little off topic. but the point is, i'm generally happy.
i was especially happy this summer.
i think most of us are all happier in the summer.
i had the boy 10 minutes away from me.
the best friend was still in the state.
i had a job I loved that was right on the beach.

i was spontaneous. i went for random ice cream trips.
i laughed all the time.
i didn't care about what people thought of me.
i loved every second of my summer vacation.
even those pesky 5:45 wake up calls for swimming.
i learned to love those because to be honest,
the sunrise was priceless.

that girl in the summer.
that is me.

and lately i've noticed she's been missing.
not entirely.
i still laugh constantly, smile, and such.
but i cry a little more.
i tend to look more on the negative side of things.
i miss people too much and let that affect the way i feel.

i know it's due to stress.
when i get stressed out i get upset more.
we all do.
and i've been more stressed out then ever with college decisions.
which means a less happy, spontaneous, independent me.

but today that will change.

i realized something last night while looking for quotes.
life is short.
there's no guarantee for anything.
so why not live it.
and not just live it.

but completely, spontaneously, 100%live life.

just because it's not summer.
just because i'm more stressed.
that doesn't mean i can't be me.

i'm changing my view on life.
and yes, i will cry sometimes.
some days i will have bad days.

but you can either let the little hardships affect you.
or you can realize there is so much more.

to be grateful for and happy for.

i'm going back to the summer me.
i'll just pretend every day is still summer if i have to
{minus the fact it's way too cold to go to the beach}

honestly, i guess the point of this post is to say i've come a long way since freshmen year.
and i don't want to go back.

this post is more of a reminder to me then anything.
a reminder to be happy.

smile constantly. laugh often. love no matter what.
let the little things go, it's not worth it.
don't hold grudges.
don't worry.
you can't spend life worrying.
if it is meant to be, it will happen.
take action.

and you know what? since my little revelation last night... I have felt so much better.
today was such a better day.
it's a work in progress.
but summer me will be back soon.

because this whole stressed out upset person? it's soooo not working for me;)

whose with me on working to live life?
let's all be fearless.
{here}

{From the Past} Memories

2011-08-24T17:09:00.001-04:00

*This was originally posted on Sunday, 9.8.10*

this afternoon my grandma and i were looking through photos in my living room.
my focus for ap art has to do with photographs
(i plan on either capturing the emotion of love or happiness- i haven't decided yet)
anyway, my parents have always been huge on taking pictures and capturing moments, which i am so grateful for

*I took pictures of all the pictures with my iphone, which is somehow still holding onto life after the shattering fall. some of the photos have a glare, so i apologize*

great fashion sense, right? i have a pair of mustard tights today

i look so serious

my grandparents, who were married over 40 years, at my parents wedding 21 years ago

17 years ago

classic jackie

is it bad to say i really want that outfit?

my first boyfriend... don't i look happy?

my gorgeous mom

my first running race with my dad!

love this picture of me

the girls.

Everything's Changing

2011-08-23T21:15:00.001-04:00

Things have been a little hectic around here.

*My brand new Macbook Pro broke over the weekend, so a new one is on it's way to me.

I'm currently using my mom's laptop, but I can't post any vacation photos until my new one gets here next week.

*New Jersey had an earthquake today. I was in Staples buying supplies when everything started swaying. I thought I was just dizzy, and didn't want to say "Was that an earthquake?" because I was so sure people would think I was crazy.

But in the biggest news....

{here}

I'm moving to college in a day. Thursday morning at 6 AM I'll head to a completely new state, where I'll move into a tiny dorm room and prepare to share a room with a fellow swimmer for the next year. I'm so excited about this new part of my life. I feel like, more now then ever, I really need to just get away and start over fresh. I'm also really nervous. I've never lived away from home before (minus the two weeks I spent in France without my family last year). I'm a total homebody, so that is very nerve-wracking to me.

Tomorrow I have to finish saying my goodbyes and finish packing up my car, and the next few days will be filled with making new friends and learning how to live on my own.

This blogs going to be pretty quiet of new posts most likely up until Monday, when classes start and I get on a schedule. Instead, I'm going to take a cue from a blogger I heard about, and instead post some of my favorite posts that I've done over the past two years. I'm really excited to share posts that mean a lot to me, but that might not have been seen by some of my newer readers.

Have a great week/weekend everyone! And PLEASE with me luck if you could :)

xo

P.S The August playlist on the right is really the July playlist. I'll get back on track with the monthly playlist, style story sundays, little things, and such starting in September :)

Lake Como, Italy- Bellagio

2011-08-21T07:38:00.000-04:00

Termezzo {where we stayed at in Lake Como} was directly across the lake from a town called Bellagio. Bellagio was much more of a tourist destination, but we ended up over there on two different destinations because we loved the little side streets and charming shops. It was a quick twenty minute ferry ride over there, and we were able to snap some gorgeous shots of the lake while we traveled there.

We ended up taking a cooking class on our first trip there, which I'll save for another day. The second day we spent there was spent walking around and soaking up the town.

{The little ferry station where we went to catch out boat over to the other town.}

{Having a little fun with a parked vespa.}

{A shaded street overlooking the town's church.}

{The best gelato of our trip was found here. My pick? Pear and hazelnut.}

{My sister and I in front of that little gelato store.}

{Saying we did a lot of shopping on our trip would be a huge understatement. One of the most memorable shops we visited was a little wood working studio in this town. My parents bough a few salad bowls, and I picked out a hand painted platter to store my perfume bottles on. I'll post pictures of it soon. This was in the floor of the studio, which I thought was pretty awesome.}

{Like I said, the town had some pretty cute streets.}

{The view, like any view in Lake Como, was spectacular.}

{The view, again.}

{And again.}

I'm missing it already!

------

Please be patient with me this week, readers. A lot is happening, and I'm a bit of a mess. Yesterday was my last day of work. I'm taking the next four days to get prepared and all packed up, because on Thursday I pack all of my belongings up and move close to two hours away to go to school. It's crazy and I can't quite believe it's all happening. So if my postings are a bit sporadic for the next week or so, please be patient! xo

Lake Como, Italy - Termezzo

2011-08-18T08:35:00.000-04:00

After our Milan adventures, we took a car to Lake Como in Northern Italy. We stayed at a hotel in Termezzo. Lake Como was absolutely stunning. It was right on the base of the Swiss Alps and the mountain air was just incredible. The town of Termezzo isn't much, just a couple of shops and a handful of

restaurants, but it was gorgeous nonetheless.

{The view}

{Our first day there was kind of foggy and rainy, but I think it made it even more gorgeous}

{Our hotel had a floating pool, which I thought was really awesome.}

{The property of the hotel was gorgeous. There were so many gardens and walkways that made you feel like you were in the Secret Garden.}

{This may be my favorite picture of the two of us. The fountain absolutely makes it.}

{My darling parents.}

{Another glimpse at the hotel/ view.}

{The town, like I said, was small, but had a lot of charm like these hidden side streets.}

{I love this picture of my Mama.}

{We didn't go on one, but they had these cute little train rides around town for tourists.}

{That tall orange building is our hotel.}

{Across the lake is Bellagio, which I will talk about in an upcoming post.}

{Our second night there we ate at the most amazing Italian place. The view was incredible and their homemade pasta was to die for.}

{Incredible can't even describe it.}

{I love places so gorgeous that it makes you forget all your problems.}

{I can't get over the view.}

{My favorite picture of the two of them.}

{Mr. George Clooney's Lake Como home. I swear I'm not a stalker.}

As you can see, Termezzo was simply gorgeous. I would highly recommend anyone who goes to Italy to spend some time in the lake area.

xo

Milan, Italy

2011-08-16T16:33:00.000-04:00

Our first two nights were spent in Milan. I was actually very surprised about how much I loved Milan. Last year, I didn't like Athens, but Milan was full of magic and absolutely gorgeous.

{All of the streets were so pretty!}

{Colorful shoes}

{On the roof of the Duomo}

{With my little sister}

{The architecture was beautiful}

{and so was the view}

{again, on the roof}

{dinner with my sister}

{One more roof picture}

{All the little caffe's were so pretty}

{Outside the Duomo is just as pretty!}

{In front of the Opera House. It's supposed to be gorgeous inside but it was closed when we were there.}

{There were a lot of tours, but we just decided to explore on our own}

{My first taste at Italian gelato. The Hazelnut was amazing.}

{Homemade Pasta Fagioli soup. Words can not describe how amazing this was. My mouth is watering right now. We found the caffe at this gourmet food store called Peck.}

{Like I said, the streets were gorgeous}

{My sister and I in front of the Duomo}

{When I was in Paris, France last year, I went to the famous Laduree Macaroon shop. So when I saw one in Milan I freaked out and dragged my Mom and sister in. The verdict? They LOVED them. We ended up going to the one in Lausanne, Switzerland too.}

{Another shoe shot, this time with my tom's}

{We went to she the Last Supper painting. It was simply breathtaking to see it in person, but we weren't allowed to take photos. The history of it was incredible. Like how it took four years to complete. And how someone {stupidly} cut off Jesus' feet to make a door. Who does that?}

{The painting was next to this gorgeous church.}

{We saw all sorts of interesting things on our way to the Last Supper. Like this Ray Ban building.}

{This is a picture of our last night in Milan}

{While in Italy, we learned about this dessert, called Millefoglie. It's incredible and I ordered it every place we went.}

{The morning we left Milan for Lake Como}

Milan was an unforgettable city and I would love to one day go back, if only to have more of that pasta fagioli soup!

Have a great day xo

P.S I just so happened to get the day off from work today too because of more bad weather. So I went to see Crazy, Stupid, Love with my best friend. It was absolutely adorable! I love any excuse to stare at Ryan Gosling for two hours, and I think Emma Stone is an adorable actress!

I'm Back!

2011-08-15T21:01:00.000-04:00

I can't believe my vacation to Europe is over and I'm back home.

It went by so quickly!

But it was SO much fun.

I loved every second of it.

Even though I was extremely jet lagged and all I wanted to do is curl up in a ball, I was off to my friend's charity concert that she holds every year as soon as I got back.

I was supposed to work today but the weather was ugly so I got off which was such a nice treat because I don't know how I would have stayed awake during work.

I only have four days left of work before I'm done for the summer, so I'm trying to make the best of it!

I'm going to split up posts about this trip into a few different posts based on where I went. Because I literally took like 700 photos.

I'll do it like this:

Milan, Italy

Lake Como, Italy- Termezzo

Lake Como, Italy- Bellagio

Lake Como, Italy- Bellagio ( Cooking Class)

Lausanne, Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland

Once I get everything organized, I'll share some photos! In the meantime, here's a little sneak peak :)

{The pictures don't do any of the places I went to justice. It was absolutely gorgeous!}

Have a great Monday night! :)

Arrivederci America, Ciao Italy!

2011-08-04T08:47:00.000-04:00

{here}

I'm off!

Tonight I leave for Italy, where I'll be staying in Milan and Lake Como for the next week. Then I'll be heading to Switzerland for a few days before coming home.

I'm so excited! I love traveling and can't wait to experience the culture of northern Italy and southern Switzerland.

As much as I love social networking, I'm excited to take the next week or so to really cut back on the amount of time I spend online and just focus on spending time with my family and seeing beautiful places.

I may or may not stop by the blog to say hi during the trip, and maybe share a sneak peak of photos (because based on my travel experiences, there will be a lot of them!)

If you don't already, you can follow me on twitter because I'll probably update there a bit more.

I'm really going to miss my dog, but I now she'll be in good hands because we have a ton of people staying at our house while we're away. I mean seriously, she'll probably LOVE the craziness that will be going on here and not want us to come back!!

Enjoy the next week and a half and I'll be back with gorgeous photos soon enough! xo

New York Minute

2011-08-01T21:48:00.000-04:00

Last night, five of my friends and I went into the city for my birthday dinner.

We went to Buddakan, which I have written about before.

It's unbelievably amazing, and I literally live for the edamame dumplings.

Beforehand we stopped by Chelsea Market to walk around. I also live for People's Pops. So I had one. A apricot hibiscus one to be exact Dessert before dinner is sometimes very important!

Here are some photographs from the evening:

I'm wearing the romper featured in this style story sunday post!

I hope everyone is having a great week! I'm watching shark week tonight.

It's my favorite week ever!

Have a great night. xo

Summer Lovin'

2011-07-26T21:34:00.000-04:00

As many know, Summer is my favorite season hands down.

There's just something so great about coming home from work at five and having your choice of any activity to do that night.

I love working all day on the beach, even though sometimes I get frustrated by silly swimmers and immature coworkers.

I love going out for late night ice cream with the people i care about.

i love sushi dates with the girls i work with, where we vent about said immature {male} coworkers.

i love long walks on the beach.

i love making s'mores by the fire.

i love coming home from work and having a world of possibilities as to what i get to do that night.

i love the free spirit vibe that summer gives off. i think it teaches us all to let our hair down just a little and experiment with new things we might not normally do.

i always try to remember the feeling i have in the summer.

the feeling of anythings possibly.

because it is.

The last quote really speaks to me. When you're at the beach {not working, i mean}, it honestly feels like none of your problems matter.

Try it.

Look out into the vast ocean, and suddenly that little problem you had doesn't seem to matter anymore.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Birthday Re-cap

2011-07-25T21:29:00.000-04:00

Hi loves! I know i've been M.I.A lately but I have good reasons- yesterday was my 18th birthday!

It was such a great day. I absolutely love birthdays- not just my own, but anyone's!

Yesterday was perfect. My mom made me birthday waffles, and then I got a lovely massage following my yoga class at noon.

Last night, I went out to an awesome dinner with friends and family. It was wonderful.

I love birthdays because it brings everyone together!

Here are some pictures from last night:

My sister made me the best cake! Chocolate peanut butter cake, to be exact.

My mom, me, and my sister.

My best friend Nora and I

Me and my sister

My cousin Kara, Nora, me, my friend Stephanie, and my sister

Nora, me, and Stephanie

Since I missed yesterday's Style Story, I figured I'd post what I wore last night right now.

Wrap: Free People

Necklace: Free People

Shirt: JCrew

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Have a great Monday night! xo

Outdoor Concerts

2011-07-21T13:22:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is go to outdoor concerts. I love grabbing some ice cream, laying on the grass, and listening to my favorite tunes.

Tonight and tomorrow night I'm going to two awesome concerts to see five amazing bands play. I'm beyond excited!

Tonight I'm seeing...

Sublime with Rome

311

Tomorrow night I'm seeing....

Parachute

Michelle Branch

Goo Goo Dolls

I'm beyond excited for all of these bands. It's a great start to my birthday weekend! I'll let you know how they are live!

----

We're in the middle of a major heat wave right now, as I know a lot of the country is. I work all day tomorrow and it's suppose to reach 105 degrees! Everyone drink a ton of water and stay safe! xo

Book Shelf: Just Kids

2011-07-19T20:59:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile since I've done a "Book Shelf" post, and I just HAVE to fill y'all in on this one.

{here}

Todays review is for Just Kids by Patti Smith, the legendary singer/songwriter/artist.

I'm always a little unsure about reading books written by celebs. But I have heard such great things about Just Kids that I had to try it out.

I have always loved Patti Smith's music, and I was so drawn to her way with words. Each sentence was like a poem. Everything was written with such thought and magic.

One of my favorite parts of the book was when she wrote about her experiences with Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. Like Smith, I've always loved listening to Joplin and Hendrix and still feel some profound sadness at their untimely deaths, even if I was alive at that time. She wrote about her feelings of loss and loneliness about the deaths of Joplin and Hendrix.

Smith wrote this poem about Joplin and I absolutely love it:

i was working real hard
to show the world what i could do
oh i guess i never dreamed
i’d have to
world spins some photographs
how i love to laugh when the crowd laughs
while love slips through
a theatre that is full
but oh baby
when the crowd goes home
and i turn in and i realize i’m alone
i can’t believe
i had to sacrifice you

Their deaths shocked her greatly. She wrote:

“i was both scattered and stymied, surrounded by unfinished songs and abandoned poems. i would go as far as i could and hit a wall, my own imagined limitations. and then i met a fellow who gave me his secret, and it was pretty simple. when you hit a wall, just kick it in.”

It was prose like that that made me both unable to put the book down and wanting to put the book down for fear it would end too soon.

One of my all time favorite quotes from the book is this right here:

“say anything,” he said. “you can’t make a mistake when you improvise.”

“what if i mess it up? what if i screw up the rhythm?”

“you can’t,” he said. “it’s like drumming. if you miss a beat, you create another.”

in this simple exchange, sam taught me the secret of improvisation, one that i have acces

sed my whole life

{here}

I think I relate to it so much because I believe it is how we all should live. So what if we mess up? Life is simply about improvising alone the way. If something happens, just do something else to fix it.

I highly recommend everyone to go purchase this book. I underlined so many amazing passages, these included, and found myself wanting to reread everything over and over.

Don't you love when a book captures you like that?

Style Story Sundays- Number 37: Easy and Breezy

2011-07-17T20:19:00.000-04:00

Hey friends! I can't believe I haven't blogged since Tuesday! Honestly I sometimes have no idea where the week has gone.

This week is going to be a great week though because it is my birthday week! I turn 18 one week from today and I'm so excited! I L-O-V-E birthdays so much.

Anyway, I'm determined to do my best to be a better blogger this week. This starts with the weekly Style Story Sunday of course!

I had a different outfit planned to show you tonight, but then I went on an impromptu shopping trip and found the cutest outfit, so I ended up wearing it tonight to dinner with my family and I just had to take pictures to show all of you!

This is what I wore:

You think it's a dress....

But it's really a romper!

Romper: Free People

Shoes: Tory Burch

Necklace: Tiffany and Co. (gift!)

Rings: {left} Quicksilver Jewelry {right} Free People

I am in love with rompers lately. They are more comfy then I ever expected and are so easy to throw on for a night out. I fell in love with this one right away. It looks like a dress, making it ten times cuter then it could possibly be. It flows so nicely and is just all around the perfect summer romper. The shoes I got for my graduation last month. I love wedges and I think they paired nicely with the length of the romper. The necklace was a gift from my sister and the rings are a part of my growing ring collection I have apparently started!

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Have a great sunday! xo

Guess Where I'm going....

2011-07-12T19:48:00.000-04:00

..... in a few short weeks!

As you may know by now, every summer my family takes a big vacation in August. It's nice to get away from work and spend time exploring with just my family.

Here are a few of the vacations we have been on in the past few years....

In 2007 we went to Costa Rica

We picked Whistler, Canada for our 2008 trip

2009 brought us to Maui, Hawaii

And in 2010 we ventured to Greece and Turkey

I've been so lucky to have been able to see all of these incredible places, and I have discovered traveling to be one of my favorite hobbies.

This year is no exception to the amazing vacations tradition!

On August 4th, I'll be headed to....

Italy and Switzerland!

I can't wait for the trip! I'm so excited to take beautiful pictures, explore amazing culture, and just absorb all of the scenery of these two beautiful countries.

July Music Playlist!

2011-07-11T21:10:00.001-04:00

June came and went and somehow it's already mid-July. Where on earth is this summer going? I'm trying to soak up these few weeks before a big trip {more on that tomorrow!} and then my big move to PA for school!

{here}

This month's playlist is made up of my current obsessions. It's a mix of some old school and some new alternative bands. I think this perfectly describes my taste in music.

Is This Love Bob Marley

Ripe Givers

Hurricane Bob Dylan

Dancing Barefoot Patti Smith

Baby The Happen-Ins

Don't Fear The Honey Trees

Have a great Monday! xo

P.S My dear Aunt had surgery today. She had her entire colon removed. She's doing well right now, but if everyone could send prayers that would be great! xo

Style Story Sundays- Number 36: Yoga Wear

2011-07-10T14:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday!

I've grown to love Sundays even more now that it's one of my two days off from work. I love being able to sleep late and spend the day doing whatever i wish, whether it be relaxing by the pool or curled up inside with a good book {working on the beach makes everyday a sun day. sometimes i like staying out of the sun on my off day!}

The only thing I have every Sunday is my special needs yoga class, so more often then not I spend the entire day in yoga clothes. So for this Style Story Sunday I decided to show you what I like wearing to yoga classes. The funny part is, I wear this even on days I don't teach/ go to yoga.

This is what I wore:

Top: Hard Tail

Tank: Lululemon

Sports Bra: Nike

Pants: Lululemon

Shoes: Rainbows

Toe Rings: Quicksilver Jewelry

Necklace: Quicksilver Jewelry

Ring: Vintage

This is one of, if not my favorite, yoga outfit. The top I purchased at the 2011 Yoga Journal Conference that I went to in May. I love how it can be worn on it's own with a sports bra or with a tank under- which is more kid friendly for the type of class I teach. The tank and pants are from Lululemon. I love the tank because it fits nicely and doesn't ride up in the various asanas. The pants aren't too heavy, making it nice for a summer day. The sports bra actually isn't just your typical sports bra. I bought it when I went to Paris last year! So it has some special meaning to it. Rainbows might be my all-time favorite sandal. They are the most comfortable sandals ever and I should probably get a second pair because I wear these so frequently. Toe rings are my new jewelry obsession. They remind me of summer so much and I wear them everywhere! When I go in the ocean I put them on my fingers to keep them from falling off. The necklace and ring I've showcased here before- I love them!

No Regrets

2011-07-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

{here}

People seem to always ask the question "What is your biggest regret?" or "What in life do you regret the most." I always used to think long and hard about this question until one day I realized the answer was right in front of me.

I have none.

People are always surprised to hear that. I think I may be more surprised as to why more people don't follow in that belief. I believe one hundred percent in the theory that "everything happens for a reason". I think that no matter what, we go through experiences for a reason. Living, dying, loving, leaving, happiness, sadness, hurt and heartbreak- everything we experience is just that. An experience.

As many of you know, I experienced a pretty big breakup a few months ago. It was my first big one ever- and I fully experienced for the first time why they call it heartbreak. It's because your heart literally hurts to the point where you can't think, breathe, or act upon anything you're supposed to. The new guy I'm dating {who i'm having such a good time with, might i add} also experienced a major breakup at the beginning of this year. A few nights ago, we were talking about all of this. What it's like to love, to hurt, and how all of these events change and affect you.

Maybe it's also the fact that I've just recently graduated and I'm about to move out and go experience a whole new situation. It's a whole new part of my life that is different then everything I've known for the past {almost} eighteen years. These two things have got me thinking about past experiences and what i would re-do if i could.

But I honestly don't think I would re-do anything. Like I said- I regret nothing in my life. I think it has to do with becoming the person I am today. Every single thing that has happened to me has made me the person I am today. The good, the bad, the completely unbelievable, and the ugly have made me the woman I am. Sure, I'm not necessarily proud of everything I've done. I'm not always the nicest person and i'm not always the easiest person to understand- i wear my heart on my sleeve when it comes to falling for someone quickly, but i am one tough cookie when it comes to sharing anger and hurt with someone. Past relationships have ended in me crying more days then I care to admit. I wish I would have spent more time with my Grandfather before he died. That's probably the biggest wish I have, because he was the most fascinating person I know and one of my heros.

Honestly though, everything that has happened in my life has made me who I am. I'm stronger because of the people that hurt me. And I've learned to appreciate the good times because I've had some lows in my life. I'm one of those people that when I'm happy, I have a great time, but when I'm sad, I. Am. Sad.

But I've learned to become okay with the lows in my life. These lows make me stronger. They make me a better person. And they make me appreciate the people around me and the little things that I am blessed with. And I am oh so blessed.

I think that sometimes, people spend so much time looking back and wishing to change the bad parts of their life that they forget that they wouldn't be where they are today without them. Everything really does happen for a reason. It's something I like to keep in mind when I'm going through a rough patch in my life. And I think keeping all of this in mind has allowed me to become more free in my feelings and beliefs.

Quotes I'm Living By {+ a giveaway winner}

2011-07-07T21:22:00.000-04:00

Isn't it funny when you find a quote that represents exactly who you are.

Lately I've been finding a lot of them that help show my emotions during that time.

{here}

“You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”- Frederick Buechner

{here}

"She left pieces of her life behind her everywhere she went.

It’s easier to feel the sunlight without them, she said."

{here}

There's something so magical about finding words that you can relate to. For some reason, it makes my heart happy.

-----

I know I've been such a bad blogger lately, but here is the winner of the Flourish Leather giveaway!

#3 Harija!

Congrats! Email me at

purplemonkey732 {@} aol {dot} com

and i'll put you in touch with Danielle! xo

Happy {Belated} Fourth!

2011-07-05T21:35:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone had a lovely holiday weekend!

On Sunday I had off from work.

The 3rd of July is always the big night around here, because my favorite local town shuts down all the streets for the night and everyone goes and watches the fireworks in the street!

It was an absolute blast.

Yesterday I worked all day, then spent the night at the beach as well.

It was much more casual and laid back then the previous night, but it was perfect!

What'd you do over the weekend? xo

My Life in Iphone Photos

2011-06-30T21:49:00.000-04:00

The past few weeks has been a lot of fun, and I've made sure to document everything I've done!

Here's what I've been up to!

What have you been up to? xo

Happythankyoumoreplease

2011-06-28T22:05:00.000-04:00

Last night, not feeling like going out anywhere, I curled up in my bed and rented the movie titled happythankyoumoreplease.

The verdict?

It's awesome.

I absolutely loved the plot, which follows six people, five adults + one adorable little boy, on their quest to find happiness.

There's Sam, the struggling writer with no sense of commitment in relationships.

He meets Rasheen, a young boy who gets separated from his foster family, on a subway and decides to take him in.

Sam then meets Mississippi, a waitress by day, singer by night, who confronts Sam's fear of relationships.

Sam's best friend Annie is a boho-style free spirit who has lost all her hair thanks to an auto immune disease. The movie follows her quest to be comfortable with not only her life, but her love life as well.

And finally, there is Mary Catherine and Charlie, a young couple whose disagreement over where to live threatens their relationship.

It was inspiring, heart warming, and really got me thinking about what matters.

*googlesearch*

Style Story Sundays- Number 35: Neon Pink

2011-06-26T10:43:00.000-04:00

The phrase "life got in the way" really comes to mind when i think of reasons why I've been M.I.A from the blog world.

I've started working full time at the beach, and even though I wouldn't trade my job right now for anything in the world, it's more then exhausting.

I also started early morning practice this week, so waking up at 5:30 AM and then practicing and going straight to working an eight hour day is a lot and takes some getting used to.

Don't get me wrong, there is something awesome about waking up when the sun is just rising and the world is so quiet.

There is something awesome about getting paid everyday to hang out on the beach and play in the ocean.

I come home smelling like a mixture of coconut sun tan lotion and salt air.

It really makes me thankful that I have this kind of life.

Anyway, that's an explanation as to why I haven't been around. My nights are usually spent out with friends, either checking out live music, grabbing frozen yogurt, or spending even more time at the beach. Don't worry, now that I'm use to my summer life, I'll be sure to plan ahead for the blog posts.

This outfit may be one of my favorites that I've ever put together! The other night I went out for thai food with my best friend.

This is what I wore:

Sweater: Free People

Navy Tank: JCrew

Neon Shorts: JCrew

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Long Necklace: Free People

Bird Necklace: Tiffany and Co. (gift)

Puzzle Necklace: Quicksilver Jewelry (gift)

I have a new obsession with all things neon lately. I have a post coming up which shows you my obsession. But seriously, how cute are these shorts? If they weren't so expensive I would have gotten the neon yellow and blue JCrew has too! It's been cool out at night here, which I don't mind one bit. I love summery sweaters: warm enough to fend off the chilly breeze, but with enough holes to prevent you from feeling like it's January. This one is no exception. It's baggy and I think it looks awesome with the neon pink shorts. It also looks pretty cool with the bright blue pendant rock necklace. The two smaller necklaces I'm wearing hold a special place in my heart and were both graduation gifts. The bird one was given to me by my sister. She knows how much I want a feather tattoo, but since I have to wait until April of next year for it (due to swimming), she got me this as a symbol of my moving on and freedom in life. The puzzle necklace was given to me by one of the women who helps out with my special needs yoga class. The puzzle is a symbol for Autism Awareness and I love proudly representing the fact that I work with these sweet children. It's great to be able to explain all about it when someone asks what the puzzle is for!

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Have a great Sunday everyone!

{Guest Post}: Camilla from Champagne Bubbles

2011-06-23T10:17:00.000-04:00

I have another amazing guest poster today. Camilla has been my blog friend for as long as I can remember. She's kind, thoughtful, imaginative and supportive. She writes a super inspiring blog named Champagne Bubbles, started her own online magazine called The Violet, and is planning a gorgeous wedding to her superstar swimmer fiance! I can't wait to one day meet her in real life because, you have to agree, she is totally awesome.

Honestly, this week has been a tough one for me. There have been a lot of emotions and questions swirling around in my head.

But one good thing that has come from this week is an increased ability to notice and be grateful for the littlest of miracles and blessings in my every day life.

And if you aren't a follower of my blog, then perhaps you don't know this about me...

but I love making lists.

So here, all you Purple Monkeys, is a list of normal, everyday miracles and blessings that simply blow my mind:

Summer fruits like peaches and nectarines and cherries and blueberries. They're gorgeous and nourishing. How lucky are we?

Balmy evenings where time passes slowly and life is savored.

When a really good song gives you goosebumps.

The way the sun rises in the morning and the world suddenly wakes up.

How one person's smile is so infectious that it can totally transform a bad day.

The fact that everybody has so many different stories, but at the end of the day, we kind of are all the same.

When you laugh so hard and it hurts so good.

Real true friendship - and everything that comes with it.

Our ability to love deeply.

Lots of love.

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I'm leaving the giveaway up a little longer, so be sure to enter!

This week as been totally insane between practice, work, and life in general. I promise I'll post graduation pictures soon! xo

{Guest Post}: Kelly Ann from The Flowerchild Dwelling

2011-06-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

While I'm enjoying my graduation weekend and my out of town guests, Kelly Ann has kindly offered to guest post for me. She's such a sweet person and has one of the most incredible blogs I've ever come across. Today's post is no exception. Enjoy! xo

Hello lovelies! I'm Kelly Ann from The Flowerchild Dwelling, and I'm filling in for Jackie today while she celebrates a huge milestone in her life. Graduating has to be one of the greatest feelings ever and I hope she's enjoying every moment. :) Today I wanted to talk about summer foods. I love summer - to me it means sunshine, bike rides, sundresses, BBQ's, and my birthday. ;) And it also means really good food! I'm all about eating fresh, easy, colourful, and healthy foods, especially during the warmer months. So here are some awesome recipes I wanted to share with you today - some I've tried, and some I haven't, yet - but they all look so delicious!

Avocados are my favourite food, and did you know that cilantro has LOTS of health benefits? It aids in digestion, eases upset stomachs/nausea, and is a great source of iron and magnesium, among many other things. I sprinkle a handful of cliantro on just about everything: salads, tacos, sandwiches, soup, you name it! You can find the recipe for this dish here.

I'm addicted to hummus, I can't wait to try this! Recipe is over here.

My dad is allergic to gluten, so I'm always on the lookout for good gluten-free recipes that he can try. This sorbet is the perfect treat for a warm, summer day. Recipe can be found here.

Like I said, avocados = favourite food. I practically eat them on a daily basis. And one of my favourite things to do is put it in a tortilla with veggies and maybe a slice of turkey or some chicken. I need to try this wrap! Recipe is here.

Quinoa is a huge hit right now, and rightfully so - it's absolutely delicious! And it's healthy! I love it, and I think this salad looks amazing. You can find it over here.

I love pasta. So much. And I love basil. I'm actually not too crazy about brie, but I think it totally works in this dish! You can find the recipe here.

When I was in college, edamame became one of my most favourite go-to snacks, and to this day I could still eat an entire bowl, easily. So when I saw the words edamame and hummus together, I gasped. Heavenly. Recipe here.

This looks positively mouth-watering! Recipe is over here. (You could also use spinach instead of rapini)

This is, honestly, one of the best desserts I've ever had, and it's only two ingredients: chocolate and water. That's it! I'm serious, it's that easy. I could eat it every single day, it's divine! You can find it here.

If you try any of these, let me know! Thanks for having me, Jackie. :)

Dear Dad

2011-06-19T09:36:00.000-04:00

Thank you for cheering me on no matter what I'm doing.

Thank you for finding the time to help me with whatever i need help with.

Thank you for helping me change ink cartridges in my printer, because i still have trouble with it.

Thank you for buying me powdered sugar at the last minute when i forget i really need it.

Thank you for coming to every single swim meet, cross country race, and school event in the past 17 years.

Thank you for pushing me to be the best person i can be.

Thank you for saying that sweet speech at my graduation dinner the other night.

It meant a lot.

I love you Dad!

Happy Father's Day.

*A very happy father's day to my grandfathers as well. I wouldn't have such great parents without them. Pop, I really miss you.

P.S Yes I graduated! It's been pretty hectic the last few days, and it will continue to be as my family is in town and as I start work full time this week. Not to worry, I have a few awesome guest posters lined up, plus I'll stop in with some graduation pictures.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE GIVEAWAY!

Purple Monkey Giveaway! {Flourish Leather}

2011-06-14T11:16:00.000-04:00

Friends, I am so excited to announce a new giveaway!

I've been reading Danielle's blog since I first started blogging. She's funny and so sweet!

Anyway, last week I stumbled upon Flourish Leather on etsy, and immediately fell in love with the bracelets the shop offered.

They're simple enough to not overwhelm an outfit, but stylish enough to wear with anything!

Seeing as I usually have a stack of bracelets on my arm, these are perfect!

The funny part is, it wasn't until I started talking to the owner of Flourish Leather that I realized it was Danielle! Don't you love when you find a shop you love that was created by someone you already "know"?

Danielle is giving one lucky Purple Monkey reader their choice of a Flourish Leather bracelet.

There's so many gorgeous colors to choose from it's so hard to choose!

To enter, simply:

1) Become a follower (or tell me if you already are one)

2) Visit the shop and tell me which color you would get if you won and why

{The why part is interesting to me. I would choose either natural because it reminds me of the woods behind my childhood home, or blue because of my love of the ocean}

Want extra chances to win?

Of course you do!

3) Tweet about the giveaway and leave a comment

4) Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment

That's it! It's that easy.

I'll keep the giveaway open until next Tuesday, June 21st

Namaste Monday: Yoga for the Special Population

2011-06-13T23:04:00.000-04:00

See, I promised Namaste Monday would be back this week!

Mondays were {are} a little hectic, but I'm writing this in the morning so that it does get done!

A while ago, I talked about how I taught a yoga class for children with disabilities. As most of you know, I wrote my Senior Thesis this year on Yoga for children with Down Syndrome, Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. I learned a lot during all of the research I had to do, and I thought I'd share some of the facts with you.

Why am I doing this? Because I believe that yoga is for everybody. It doesn't matter who you are, how healthy you are, or how old you are. Yoga has such positive benefits that it has the potential to change your life.

Between my research, my discussions with other yoga teachers, and my learnings from teaching my own class, I have come up with key reasons why yoga is great for children with disabilities. But not only that: we all have problems, children with disabilities just have more of them. But all of these things that I'm sharing can relate to us and reasons why we should do yoga has well.

1. Yoga develops focus.

Children with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome tend to have trouble focusing and staying patient. Breathing exercises especially can help a child learn to stay focus. Also, balancing postures such as Tree Pose help to build focus. When you teach someone the correct way to breath (inhale through the nose, exhale through the nose) you help them regulate the behavior, which can help them in both academic and social situations.

2. Yoga helps children build friendships.

Often a child with a disability, specifically one such as Autism, can have trouble making friends because they don't feel like they fit in. By putting a child into a yoga class, they have the opportunity to make friends because their confidence and self esteem is being heightened. Furthermore, by teaching these children breathing exercises, they are less likely to act out in stressful situations, making it easier for them to make friends.

3. Yoga helps improve health

Children with disabilities suffer from a variety of health problems. Children with Autism will often have trouble sleeping, but poses such as Child's Pose help to regulate sleep, which can curb obesity and help a child in school. Bridge pose helps to stimulate the thyroid glad, which is important for a child with Down Syndrome as they may suffer from thyroid problems. They may also suffer from hypertension or heat defects, so breathing exercises are great because they reduce hypertension and are safe for a child with a heart defect. Yoga helps promote flexion and extension. It also builds muscle strength, and upper body strength is especially important for a child who is wheelchair bound, such as one with Cerebral Palsy.

In my research, I interviewed parents and teachers who were somehow involved with a child with one or more of the four disabilities discussed. They all agreed that yoga therapy is a great form of therapy for a child with a disability. One teacher specifically commented that she thought yoga therapy was so great because it was a total body experience. It's not just focusing on a specific muscle group- it's focusing on everything, including the mind. If you've ever done yoga, you know what I'm taking about.

These are just a few of the points that I found when writing my paper. I can't say everything here, since it's 110 pages long, but I figured these are key points to make.

But see how it can relate to everyone? We all need help with focusing and health. Having trouble sleeping? Try child's pose!

Still not convinced? I know a lot about this topic, so feel free to ask me a question!! xo

Style Story Sundays- Number 34: Flirty Summer Dress

2011-06-12T21:16:00.000-04:00

Today wasn't the best day ever, due to the fact that I had work.

But thanks to a storm that was supposed to hit but never did, it was cold and cloudy all day, meaning no one came to the beach.

That meant that we went for breakfast, cleaned our guard room, and most of us got to leave an hour early!

Not bad, right?

I just came back from dinner with my parents and grandma. She's back for the summer (she lives in Florida during the Winter/ Spring), just in time for Friday!

I wore this outfit out to dinner in Philadelphia the other night. Excuse the plate of cookies in front of me. When the hotel found out we were in the city for my sister's surgery, they upgraded our room and sent us cookies and milk! How sweet!

Dress: Anthropologie

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Rings:

{Left to Right}

Quicksilver Jewelry (gift)

Grandma's

Mom's

Bracelets: Both Vintage

I've had this dress for awhile, but it's only been more recently that I've enjoyed wearing it. The bag is new! My mom got it for me as a graduation gift when we went into the city last week. It was expensive, but I've used it everyday since. I love cross body bags because it frees up your hands and doesn't hurt your shoulders, and this one is big enough for everyday essentials. The rings are a part of my ever growing collection, and the bracelets are vintage that I've had for forever but never really wore.

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What's everyone's plans for the week? I'd love to hear! xo

Update on Caroline

2011-06-11T13:30:00.000-04:00

{here}

We're home from Philadelphia following my sister's surgery yesterday.

Luckily, they fixed the problem, but what was supposed to be a 4 hour surgery turned into a 8ish hour surgery.

She's such a trooper and I'm proud of her.

She's back home resting!

Thanks everyone for all of the tweets, comments, and texts I got yesterday and throughout the day.

It was so sweet knowing that the blogging community was praying for my sister during the hard time.

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In other news, I graduate this week!

My Grandma comes in tomorrow, my other set of grandparents come in Wednesday, and my Uncle comes in Thursday all in time for graduation on Friday.

I'm really excited to have my entire family present (minus a few members of my Mom's family who couldn't make it) because we never are all together!

I'll be back tomorrow with a new Style Story.

Have a great Saturday! xo

Sista, Sista

2011-06-08T22:03:00.000-04:00

I've talked a lot about my younger sister, Caroline, here on the blog.

She's 15, and isn't she a stunner?

I think she's gorgeous!!

She's also funny, ridiculously smart, and full of love.

Being 3 years apart, we have our moment of fighting, but we're also best friends and have some of the best memories with each other.

A few weeks ago I talked about how she had a heart problem that needed surgery.

It's not major, but they do need to cut into her groin, insert a catheter into her vein, and bring it up to the heart so they can shock it.

Typing it out it sounds pretty major to me, but the doctor promised it's done frequently and she was in good hands.

Tomorrow we're going to Philadelphia and on Friday she'll have the procedure.

Obviously I'm nervous for her and praying that everything goes perfectly smooth.

I would appreciate if all of you kind blog friends would keep her in your thoughts and prayers over the next few days as she has her surgery and recovers.

Isn't it funny that how when you need surgery it's not scary at all, but when a loved one does it seems like the most frightening thing in the world?

I'll be back over the weekend with an update! xo

Things I Love

2011-06-07T22:26:00.000-04:00

{From Top Left Clockwise}

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

{From Top Left Clockwise}

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

{From Top Left Clockwise}

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

{From Top Left Clockwise}

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

These are a few of the things I'm loving from Pinterest this week.

What are you loving?

**I promise Namaste Monday will be back next week! Sorry everyone! xo**

Style Story Sundays- Number 33: Neon Stripes

2011-06-05T09:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday!

I hope everyone is having a great weekend.

I sure am.

Yesterday, even though I had to work all day, was especially fun.

It was our town's big Food and Music Festival, so my friend Stephanie stopped by later in the evening for good food and music. We finished the evening off with some record shopping and frozen yogurt. I FINALLY found a Beatles record {Abbey Road nonetheless}.

This outfit is from my giant Senior presentation I gave on Wednesday. I was nervous, but I loved my outfit so I was 100% confident in my abilities! I think when you have a great outfit and feel amazing, you become even more confident then you already are.

This is what I wore:

{Sorry, I know the photos are a little dark. I forgot to turn the lights on when I took these pictures! Oops!}

Neon Striped Shirt: JCrew

Eyelet Skirt: JCrew (on sale!)

Navy Bag: Anthropologie (gift)

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Necklace: Satya Jewelry (on sale!)

I went shopping last week at JCrew to pick up a few summer essentials, which explains why half this outfit is JCrew. The shirt I had been eyeing for weeks. I LOVE anything neon, and I thought this would be perfect with both skirts and jeans, especially at night when it was cooler and the long sleeves would be needed. The skirt is something I feel in love with, and it was on sale for around $25! The bag I got as a gift probably 3 years ago, and I still use it to this day. I think navy is such a versatile color! The shoes have been shown on this blog before, and they really do go with everything. The necklace I had mentioned a few weeks ago. I picked it up at the Yoga Journal Conference Marketplace. I love how it's so simple, yet the pop of blue makes a bit of a delicate statement.

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What are everyone's plans for their Sunday?

I'm teaching my special needs class, then hanging out with a friend!

Have a great day.

June Playlist!

2011-06-03T21:48:00.001-04:00

Can you believe it's June?

Where did May go?

I have no clue!

This music playlist is wonderful. Wonderful I tell you!

It is perfect for everything- beach, driving, lounging around the house- you name it, I'll listen to this.

In fact, I was listening to this today when I was out by my pool!

It was such a gorgeous day and I loved it.

I wish everyday in the summer could be as relaxing as this, but, alas, I have a job.

Granted, my job is lifeguarding on the beach and involves tanning most of the day, but still!

Here's this months playlist!

June Music Playlist

Waste Phish

Wait for Me Motopony

Piece of My Heart Janis Joplin

Edge of Seventeen Stevie Nicks

History Book Dry the River

When I'm With You Best Coast

Coyote The Lonely Forest

I HAD to add the Phish song in here because the concert the other night was incredible. I don't know many of their songs, but they are an incredible live band and if you have the chance to see Phish live you really need to!

Enjoy! xo

Lazy Days of Summer

2011-06-02T22:13:00.000-04:00

Yesterday marked my "official" start to summer.

I've been out of school for almost two weeks, but yesterday I gave my huge senior presentation, so i'm officially done now!

These are some of the reasons why summer is my all-time favorite season:

Going to the beach all the time.

Being tan.

Exercising outside.

Popsicles.

Late night trips for ice cream.

Swimming in the ocean.

Shorts and t-shirts.

Playing with my dog outside.

Driving with the windows down.

Lemonade.

Bright colors.

Feather hair extensions.

Outdoor concerts.

Summer thunderstorms.

Surf hair.

Sand in my bed.

My birthday.

New books.

Why do you like summer?

*Click on the picture to see the source*

Phish Concert

2011-06-01T16:12:00.000-04:00

Tonight I'm suppose to be going to my first outdoor concert of the summer!

{We also have a tornado watch in affect right now so I'm hoping that the weather is okay!}

My friend Stephanie and I are meeting up with friends to see Phish!

I cannot wait I'm so excited! It's bound to be a great concert!

In case you have never heard of Phish, I highly suggest you check some of their stuff out.

Have a listen and let me know what you think! xo

I'm Back

2011-05-31T21:29:00.000-04:00

Oh hey.....

I know, I've got some explaining to do.

Whenever people talk about "blogging breaks", I always used to kind of laugh.

"Why would one want a break?" I'd ask. "It's so much fun!"

But i totally just took the nicest week long break from blogging.

It started when I accidentally deleted my twitter app on my IPhone.

At first I felt bare. And then I didn't want to bring it back.

The lack of twitter in my life led to a lack of blogging.

But I've also had a completely insane week.

Don't you hate those weeks where you get a slew of good news AND a slew of bad news?

I feel so torn into which way to feel.

Should I cry?

Or should I be happy?

Obviously I already discussed my sister's surgery. It's happening next weekend, which scares me to death.

Then I found out my dad needs a biopsy on his thyroid due to a lump.

I'm a totally daddy's girl, so this also scares me to death.

Then my friend's dad passed away at the age of 65.

So far, 4 of my friend's dads have died within the past 3 months.

Then I was completely betrayed by one of my closest friends.

On the other hand....

Summer officially started for me.

I started work, which mean three days of pure beach weather.

I went on a date (followed by a second, third, and even fourth) with an amazing guy.

*knock on wood I'm not jinxing anything here*

My best friend came home from college for the summer.

My other best friend graduated.

And I graduate two weeks from Friday!

As you can see, it's been quite the hectic week around these parts.

But I'm starting to get everything back together.

I'm ready to deal head on with the health scares my family is experiencing.

*I would really appreciate prayers though, if you could!*

And I'm ready to enjoy my last summer before college for all it's worth.

Here we go, friends. It's going to be an AMAZING summer.

My life in IPhone Photos

2011-05-24T22:10:00.000-04:00

1. I got my nails painted yellow and i love the color. It's unusual and somewhat out there, but I love how chill and summery of a color it is.

2. The cake I made for the Seniors on my swim team.

3. My AP Art show was a few weeks ago and I finally got to showcase all of my hard work.

4. My dinner the other night. I'll post the recipe this week :)

Live A Little

2011-05-23T23:18:00.002-04:00

No Namaste Monday tonight....

I was too busy....

on a date.....

Yes, you heard that right.

No, the world's not ending.

And no, pigs are not flying.

Tonight I went out of my comfort zone.

I lived a little.

And it was so worth it.

Style Story Sundays- Number 32: Prom

2011-05-22T10:34:00.000-04:00

Special Prom Feature!

This past Friday was my Senior prom.

It was especially special to me because I planned this thing top to bottom.

It's kind of funny how I spent so much time stressing out about it and then that one night happened and it was over!

But it was so worth it.

Initially I didn't think I was going to even go to prom.

I didn't have a date and was fed up with a few things going on at the time.

Then my friend asked me to go with him, and then those few things I was fed up with cleared up.

I'm so glad I went.

It was fun getting all dressed up and slipping on a pretty dress.

I kind of felt like Cinderella for the night.

Afterwards we went back to my friends house for the Post-Prom party. I swear I slept maybe an hour the entire night, so I was completely exhausted yesterday, but it was very worth it.

Here is what I wore to Prom!

Dress: Nicole Miller

Necklace: JCrew

Shoes (Not Pictured): Kate Spade

Clutch: Lauren Merkin (borrowed from Mom)

Special Thanks:

Hair and Nails: Milagro Spa, Red Bank

Makeup: Bobbi Brown Counter at Blue Mercury, Shrewsbury

Tailoring: My Mother

So this was my prom look. I knew right away when I saw this dress that it was "the one". The color is absolutely stunning in my mind. I knew right away I wanted to keep everything pretty natural and beachy. I wanted to keep my hair down, but I love how my stylist pulled half of it back and twisted it. It kept things a little more special since it was a special occasion. I knew that since my dress was so formal and simple, that I wanted a more funky necklace. I found this one at JCrew (you can see a better picture here) and I love how it looked like a sun a pulled the dress together! The shoes were from Prom last year and the clutch is my mom's.

The night was really special, but also because my friend Meghan came home for Prom. She's been going to school with us FOREVER, but her dad got transferred to Switzerland in November and she's been there ever since. She loves her new European life (she's in Jersey this weekend, but next weekend she's in London, and then Africa. Jealous? I am.), but we were happy she got to celebrate prom with all of us!

How was your weekend? Do anything exciting?

The Burning House

2011-05-19T15:14:00.002-04:00

I posted this on Twitter the other day, and it is officially my new blog obsession.

The Burning House asks the question, if your house was on fire, what would you take?

I know they ask this question a lot in grade school, but I don't think we truly ever focus on it.

Our family and our pets are the obvious answers, but what else?

What is sentimental to you and can't be replaced?

Besides my family and dog, I'd probably go for my IPhone, some of my more sentimental jewelry, photographs from when i was younger, and my card collection.

I'd love to one day capture my own image showing what is special to me.

In the meantime, here are my favorite images from The Burning House.

Check it out!

I'll be back later tonight to discuss my weekend! xo

*All names are linked to their personal blogs, as stated on The Burning House.

Go to The Burning House to see a description of each item.

Tears

2011-05-17T22:27:00.000-04:00

I chose to seek solace in the warm water, which ran down my face like raindrops.

I would stand under the shower head for what seemed like hours.

Maybe it had to do with my years of being a swimmer, being emerged in the water.

Maybe it had to do with the comfort that water seemed to bring to me.

Whatever it was, to this day, I still go into the shower to let the tears flow.

I used to think the reason I did it was because I liked the gentle feeling of the water against my skin.

That the soft hum of the shower, the drops against the tile, and way it hit my skin brought a glimmer of joy.

I used to think the steam could wash away the problems.

But one day I realized the true reason I sought the shower for comfort when the storm in my life brewed.

I went to the shower because, for those 10 minutes or so, the stream of water hitting my face made everything okay.

The stream of water mixed with my tears and made me forget that I was crying; that everything was not okay.

Namaste Monday: 2011 Yoga Journal Conference

2011-05-16T13:40:00.000-04:00

The atmosphere in my last session was so full of life. This is the only photo I managed to capture all day, and I think it sums everything up perfectly

So for this week's Namaste Monday, I thought I'd share my experience from Saturday.

On Saturday I went to the 2011 Yoga Journal Conference held at the Hilton in NYC.

I chose to sign up for the day pass instead of the weekend because I went with a few of the teachers and the owner of the studio I work at.

Let me say this: It was an incredible experience and I would to it again in a heartbeat! In fact, I can't wait to come home from college next year to do participate again!

I woke up at 5 AM to head into the city to make it in time for the 8 AM class, the first of the day. The day was split in three two-hour sessions. I pre-registered for the classes I wanted to participate in, and once I signed in, I received my badge and goodie bag.

I LOVED the goodie bag they gave us. It was a reusable tote filled with Luna Bars, Coconut Milk, an awesome Gaiam metal water bottle, and a bunch of coupons/ body product samples. After I had time to sort through my loot, I headed into my first class.

Session One: Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga: Yoga for Athletes with Sadie Nardini

Let me say this: this girl is INCREDIBLE. I had actually never heard of her and had signed up for the class mainly because I'm an Athlete and wanted to see her view of yoga for athletes. But she has this completely relaxed teaching style and she's actually hilarious. She talked about how doing yoga AFTER we run, swim, bike, or do any physical activity is much more important then BEFORE. She said that we gain 75% more muscle if we stretch after a workout then if we don't. How amazing is that? She showed us how to change different postures that we already do to make them more effective for an athlete. Simple things, such as grabbing the straight leg in Pigeon or changing how we do boat pose can affect how we use our strength. What I love was her new way to go through the vinyasa flow. Instead of going from Down Dog to plank to Cobra to Down Dog again in such a stiff way, she told us to be like a wave and roll our body. I loved that idea because it helps lengthen us instead of shortening our muscles. She said to use the "fire" in our stomach to use our core in EVERYTHING. But, and this is what I loved, she said that we often suck our stomachs in when teachers tell us to "use our core". Obviously, it's terrible to do that with yoga because it constricts our breathing. So she said to focus on the breathing flowing up through our body in the inhale, and down in the exhale. She said we need to relax our stomach instead of tightening them. Such a good idea! I really loved how she talked about how we control our own destinies, and if we're not happy with something we have the power to change it. I'll do a post one day about yoga for athletes, but if you ever get an opportunity to take a workshop with Sadie, I highly suggest it.

After Session One, we had about thirty minutes to head to Session Two.

Session Two: Yoga Sweat with Beth Shaw

I chose this class because of the title and description. I love hot yoga, so I was interested in participating in a heated class. But more importantly, I wanted to learn about the good/ bad of hot yoga, who should not be doing hot yoga, and modifications of special needs populations, all of which the description said we'd learned. And we learned none of that. I was actually very disappointed with this class. Don't get me wrong, it was a great workout (we did a lot of core postures) but the class wasn't heated and it felt a lot like a pilates class. I guess I should have known, considering Beth Shaw is the one who started YogaFit for fitness instructors, but the whole thing wasn't what I was looking for. Although she gave us a lovely Savasana at the end! Which was just what I needed.

After Session Two, I was already in need of a nap. That was four hours of yoga right there! I still had three hours until my last class though. I think there shouldn't have been three hours in between the sessions since it was a little too much time, but I found plenty to do. I could have taken advantage of the guest speakers that were doing free lectures, which I sort of wish I had done, but I enjoyed my free time. I spent the first part of it in the Yoga Marketplace. It was a huge area where different yoga stores set up shops and sold their products at discounted prices. They had everything from big names like Gaiam and Lululemon to smaller specialty shops with jewelry.

I picked up cute yoga pants from Wisdom and Co. (the pants are awesome because they spell Namaste in yoga characters on the band), a lotus and tree of life necklace from Satya Jewelry (I've been looking for one for forever and this was perfect!), a striped shirt from Hard Tail, and some awesome yoga cookie cutters from The Kitchen Yogi (how cute are they?)! The best part was everything was marked down for the event. I think the necklace I go was usually $120 and I got it for like $40!

Following our shopping spree, we went for a quick lunch at a little salad joint, then headed to our third class.

Session Three: Fire and Flow: Agni Namaskar with Shiva Rea

I was so happy and surprised to get into a class with Shiva Rea. She is an extraordinary and extremely popular yoga teacher. I could see why- she was amazing. We started the entire session off with maracas and drums and danced! It was a little surprising but great all in all. Then she lead us through a vigorous vinyasa series complete with 108 pushups! I wished her session was first- I was exhausted from doing the two previous sessions so I didn't enjoy the class as much as I could have. But it was great! She talked about how it's mind over matter and there is a fire in all of us that controls what we do. She discussed that the fire within us can bring changes. Before every set of pushups (we did sets of 12), she would say something encouraging like "You are BEAUTIFUL" or "You are ENLIGHTENED". It was very encouraging and she seemed so sweet and down to earth. And energetic!

All in all, the conference was amazing and if you live in an area where they offer one, you should go! I loved being able to take classes with such highly respected teachers! It was certainly and honor and such a fun day! I am totally feeling the affects of 6 hours of yoga though! I'm still sore!

But it did make me realize how much I love the role yoga plays in my life. It was also so inspiring to see people who make yoga there life.

Have you ever been to a Yoga Journal Conference? Have you ever had the chance to work with an amazing teacher? xo

Style Story Sundays- Number 31: Tribal

2011-05-15T22:01:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!

I know this week's Style Story Sunday is super late.

It's been such a busy- but wonderful- Sunday.

The conference yesterday was amazing. I'll talk more about it in tomorrow's Namaste Monday post.

This morning I woke up incredibly sore. But my Mom and I took a trip over to the local Farmer's Market. It started raining, so we didn't stay long, but we picked up a few vegan things and some organic juices.

After, I went to my class and taught the kids. Then, my friend Grace came over for dinner.

All in all, a pretty good day!

Here's some pictures from Florida.

This was for a day out shopping.

This is what I wore:

Shirt: LF Stores

Tank: No tag

Necklace: Anthropologie

Shorts: JCrew

Sandals: Free People

Bag: Lucky Brand (gift)

I feel like this outfit completely explains who I am, and I find myself drawn to outfits similar to this all the time. I love lace- but unique lace, not cheap lace. I love how this white lace looks with the orange tank underneath. Paired with a long necklace and shorts, it was the perfect outfit for a hot day. These shoes are my favorite- they were such a great find! And I love this bag. It's all embroidered and has adjustable straps to become a cross body bag!

Tomorrow's my Senior Skip Day, so I have plans to run some errands and catch up on sleep.

Have a great night! xo

Seniors 2011

2011-05-13T20:32:00.001-04:00

Last night officially marked the countdown to graduation. I had my senior swim banquet for my swim team. I gave my speech and got my senior gifts. It is something I have been looking forward to since I joined the team eleven years ago, so it was bittersweet. But I'll still be at practice until I leave in August, so it's not quite so sad, yet.

Today was Day one of our senior prank day. Let me say this- I think senior pranks can be hilarious. Ours was no exception. It started last night for half my grade. They camped out all night. I joined them around 6:30 AM and brought everyone coffee. We took out some grills and started making egg and cheese sandwiches and blasting music. It was hilarious seeing all the teachers faces as they drove onto campus!

Then, at about 10 AM, as all the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors were walking to the dining hall for break, we took out over 100 water balloons and 5 water guns and had a huge water balloon fight. I'll admit, that was a little mean, and the principal was not happy- but it was absolutely hysterical as kids grabbed garbage bags to keep themselves dry. They thought it was pretty funny too :)

Here are some pictures from the banquet and this morning's breakfast!

It's crazy how fast this year went. Like I said, last night marks the last few weeks until I graduate in about a month. Next week I have Senior Awards, Senior Skip Day, Prom, and last day of classes.

The week after is Days of Service. Then is the first day of work, followed by Senior thesis presentations, and finally Senior dinner week and Graduation!

It's going to an absolutely insane next few weeks, but I can't wait.

Speaking of exciting things, tomorrow I'm going to NYC to participate in the Yoga Journal NY Conference. I can't wait, and I've signed up for some very exciting classes/ lectures. Are any of you going/ have you been?

I'll be back with my experience!

Have a great weekend! xo

Iconic Females

2011-05-12T08:49:00.000-04:00

I have a board on my pinterest where I post photographs of musicians, actors, and humanitarians I consider to define the word "iconic".

Lately, I've been noticing something interesting.

I consider a lot of people from before my time to be iconic, but there are also those select few from these past few years that I think will go right up there in history with the Marilyns and Audreys as people we will relate to.

I know we are all surrounded by the Snookies, Lindsay's, and Paris Hilton's of the world, but it is important to remember the individuals of our past that have an amazing influence on society, and recognize those here today as contributors to the future.

Here is my Iconic List, then and now:

Then

Now

Kate Hudson (in Almost Famous)

Of course, this is just a fraction of the iconic females that have changed our world. But I think the "Now" category deserves just as much credit as the "Then" category.

Who are your most iconic individuals in history?

May Music Playlist

2011-05-10T22:53:00.000-04:00

{here}

I know, I know, this playlist is super late.

How is it already May 10th?

I have no idea.

Anyway, here's this month's playlist!

{I really love this one :)}

May Playlist

Secret Love Stevie Nicks

Pumped Up Kicks Foster the People

Wolf like Me TV on the Radio

Ambling Alp Yeasayer

Heart of Glass Blondie

Katydid Will Stratton

One Two Three Four Falcon and the Punches

Enjoy!

Speaking of records {don't you love this picture?} I went into my local variety store to find that they have started selling used records! I got a Blondie record for $4! Even the cashier was surprised at my lucky find :)

By the way, anyone else feel like this is the longest week ever? I'm d-y-i-n-g over here! So much to do.

Have a great night!

Namaste Monday: Chakras

2011-05-09T22:06:00.000-04:00

{here}

All of our emotions, feelings, and choices define who we are.

How we feel also defines the choices we make.

Happiness brings us closer to the people around us.

Sadness brings us deeper into our shell.

And all of this involves what the yoga world calls the Chakras.

Most people think of yoga as a physical practice. I get that. I don't feel like I'm treating my body right when I don't go to my yoga class once a week, and I haven't been in two weeks (thanks Prom, Senior Projects, Graduation practices, and swimming for that). But yoga is so much more then that, and that's what i try to explain every week.

Our body is made up of seven energy bodies, called Chakras. These are located throughout the body and hold certain lessons and imbalances that influence our lives. When one chakra is out of balance, these lessons are affected and lead to the imbalances we experience.

The chakras are as follows:

{From top to bottom}

1) Crown Chakra

Location: top of the head

Color: violet

Lessons: Knowingness. Connections to God or whatever higher power you believe in. Integrity in the universe.

Imbalances: Headaches. Mental illnesses. Skin rashes.

Ways to open your crown chakra and prevent imbalances: Journaling. Focusing on dreams. Wearing violet clothing. Using lavender essential oils.

2) Brow Chakra

Location: In between the eyes

Color: Indigo

Lessons: Intuition. Called the third eye. Self-realization

Imbalances: Learning disabilities. Sleep disorders. Mouth, jaw, neck and shoulder problems. Mood swings. PMS.

Ways to open your Brow Chakra and prevent imbalances: Star gazing. Meditation. Wearing indigo clothing. Using patchouli essential oils.

3) Throat Chakra

Location: Throat region

Color: Blue

Lessons: Relationships. Learning to trust and express yourself. Loyalty.

Imbalances: Fevers and flu. Swollen glands. PMS.

Ways to open your Throat Chakra and prevent imbalances: Singing. Poetry. Conversations. Wearing blue clothing. Using Chamomile essential oils.

4) Heart Chakra

Location: Center of the chest

Color: Green

Lessons: Relationships. Love and compassion. Self control. Forgiveness. Acceptance.

Imbalances: Heart and breathing disorders. Chest Pain. Breast Cancer.

Ways to open your Heart Chakra and prevent imbalances: Nature walks. Spending time with family and friends. Wearing green clothing. Using pine essential oils.

5) Solar Plexus

Location: Above the navel

Color: Yellow

Lessons: Personal power. Free thinking. Self control. Self confidence. Humor

Imbalances: Digestive problems. Diabetes. Constipation. Nervousness.

Ways to open your Solar Plexus chakra and prevent imbalances: Doing mind puzzles. Reading. Learning. Sunshine. Wearing yellow clothing. Using lemon essential oils.

6) Spleen Chakra

Location: Lower abdomen

Color: Orange

Lessons: Feelings. Social issues. Intimacy issues.

Imbalances: Eating disorders. Depression. Lower back pain. Allergies. Urinary problems.

Ways to open your Spleen Chakra and prevent imbalances: Hot baths. Water aerobics. Massages. Wearing orange clothing. Using orange essential oils.

7) Root Chakra

Location: Base of spine

Color: Red

Lessons: Survival. Dealing with the material and physical world. Standing up for oneself. Security.

Imbalances: Depression. Anemia. Fatigue. Frequent colds.

Ways to open your Root chakra and prevent imbalances: physical exercise. Sleep. Gardening. Wearing red clothing. Using sandalwood essential oils.

I'm not saying I agree with all of the above information. But if you think about it, some of it does make sense. For instance, don't you feel depressed with you are fighting with someone? Spleen Chakra. What about when your feeling stressed about work? Root Chakra. Ever feel chest pain after a breakup? Heart Chakra.

Our bodies are more complex then you can ever believe. That's why it's so important to take care of them and respect the energy that runs throughout them. I'll talk more about the energy body, but I think this is an important overview. And I love the suggestions for balancing your chakras!

Do you believe in the chakras? Do you notice a connection?

Is yoga a spiritual, emotional, or physical practice for you?

source: Chakra Energy

Style Story Sundays- Number 30: Maxi Skirt

2011-05-08T16:51:00.001-04:00

This outfit is from my Spring break in Florida a few weeks ago.

{Has it really been a few weeks? Gosh.}

I'm missing the beach and relaxation that vacations offer, but luckily it's warmed up a bit here so the shock isn't so bad.

In fact, I did some Spring cleaning today. I put away all the really thick chunky sweaters and took out the shorts and summer dresses.

Of course, I kept a few sweaters out because I know I just totally jinxed myself.

Here's what I wore in Florida:

Shirt: JCrew

Skirt: Anthropologie

Shoes: Sam Edelman

Necklace: Free People

Let's start with the shirt. I love this shirt. They're paper thin, soft, and loose tanks. I picked up three in a few different colors and I love the variety they offer. I can easily wear them with jean shorts on a casual day, or under a leather jacket for going out. As for the skirt, no words can express my love for it. I've been wanting a maxi skirt for awhile, but I didn't want to look like an Amish schoolgirl. This one is flattering, and moves with each step. Paired with the sandals and funky necklace, it was perfect for a casual dinner out.

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Have a great night!

And Happy Mother's Day!

Check out the post I did in honor of my Mom here