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Thankful Thanksgiving:)

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! As I sit at home in Charleston, watching my mom cook a delicious Thanksgiving meal (I'm going to help as soon as I do this post!) I can't help but feel thankful for the many wonderful people, opportunities and beautiful things in my life.

Here are just a few:

Family: I have the best family in the world, who support me in any choices

I make and allow me to follow my dreams, whatever they may be. I I couldn't ask for better parents or a better support system.

This is us at Christmas last year:)

Friends: I have been given the best friends (also known as kittens, of course) a girl could ask for. Here are a few of my best frans on a recent visit to Athens. These girls are there for me no matter what, I couldn't ask for better people in my life. We even have our own language, basically. mhmm:)

Opportunities: I have been offered SO many opportunities in the last three years, it's virtually impossible to name them all, but I'll do my best. Amazing networking opportunities like PRSSA National Conference (San Diego and Washington, D.C.), graduating a year early from college and applying to grad school, being a leader on the Ohio University Synchronized Skating Team, and being given the opportunity to skate on the team as well as teach skating.

Education: I have been granted the opportunity to get an education from an amazing journalism school, as well as to be involved in organizations that prepare me for my future career better than any school could.

These are just a few of the wonderful things in my life that I have to be Thankful for. I promise to update this blog more often.

What are you Thankful for?

Halloween all around

The time has come for one of my favorite holidays - Halloween (also known as HallOUween).



I'm sitting at work thinking about how excited I am for Halloween, and the festivities that will ensue in the next 24-hours. It got me to thinking about other cultures (and our own) and their Halloween...

Mexico: Day of the Dead (El dia de los muertos)
The day of the dead focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family who have died. It is typically celebrated on November 1 or 2. People build altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds and favorite foods of the deceased. Although it occurs close to Halloween, it is actuall celebrated in correlation with All Souls Day and All Saints Day.
China:
In China, people offer water and food and light lanterns in order to guide the spirits of deceased loved ones on Halloween. The purpose is to remember loved ones, but also to help lost spirits go safely to Heaven.

Japan
In Japan, Halloween is called the Obon Festival. Here, food is prepared and lanterns are hung on houses and boats and rivers to show spirits where their families are. Japanese families clean memorial stones of lost family members. Unlike our Halloween, the Japanese celebrate this holiday in July/August.


Origins of the Halloween we know...
The word Halloween originated in the 16th century and represents a Scottish version of the phrase "All Hallows Eve". The Halloween we know is celebrated here, in England, Canada and Ireland.


According to historian Nicholas Rodgers, it is believed that Halloween originated from the aincent Celtic festival of Samhain, (derived from the Irish word meaning, "summer's end"). The festival celebrated the end of the "lighter half" of the year and the beginning of the "darker half". The Celts believed that the border between our world and the "other world" became thin during this time, allowing both good and bad spirits to pass through. Family ancestors were invited into homes and honored. It was believed that wearing costumes and masks warded off harmful spirits.


The Celts also used this time to slaughter livestock for the winter, and bonfires were a large part of this celebration because the bones of the slaughtered livestock were thrown into the flames.


The Pumpkin:
In traditional Celt celebrations, turnips were hollowed out and carved, and candles were inserted to commemorate souls in purgatory and ward off evil spirits. Carving pumpkins is popular in North America because pumpkins are larger and more readily available.


Trick-or-Treating:
Trick-or-treat dates back to the Middle Ages, and resembles the late midevil practice of souling when poor people would go door-to-door on Hallowmans (Nov. 1) and recieve food in return for prayers for the dead.


Athens Halloween:
Our Halloween block party hosts from 20-30,000 people across four blocks of downtown streets. It is the third largest block party in the country. Thanks to Athens, Halloween has become one of my favorite holidays... This year, I'm going as Amelia Earhart.. one of my absolute favorite role models.

Late night rambling.

As I sit in the library at 2am on a Tuesday, anxiously stressing over the two midterm exams I have Thursday (which also happens to be the day I leave for DC, see where the stress comes from?) I couldn't help but think of a tweet that one of my favorite artists, Jason Mraz retweeted from one of his followers the other day...

"RT @sarahc33 #LifeisGoodEP because I know these two tests I'm taking today don't define who I am... it's what I do afterward that does."

She is SO right. While my grade on these exams matters to my current life and what I'm immersed in right now, they don't define me. Why stress out so much over something that will be over in just a few hours time? These exams do not make or break my life. While this does not mean I'm not going to be studying anymore, I am going to calm down about them. And look at all I have to look forward to afterward - I get to drive to Morgantown, WV and then Washington, D.C. with some of my best friends and spend a week there learning about my future career (don't worry, there WILL be a post about it all).

No more stress for me. Just breathe everyone - this week will be over soon.

Stay positive!

Fall:)

It's finally fall!:) Officially my favorite season! It felt so good to be flying over and driving through W.Va. this weekend, which, in my opinion has the most beautiful fall foliage.

College football, beautiful hikes, pumpkin spice lattes, Halloween, scarves, boots, hay rides, carving pumpkins, corn maze's - how could you ever complain?

Here are some inspirational fall things to (hopefully) make your Monday a little more bearable:

(Image Courtesty: Polish my Crown)

Smile and stay positive as you get through the week! Here are some lyrics from one of my favorite jason Mraz songs:

I thank the galaxy for how it made up gravity

I thank the sky for hosting clouds to float on top of me

they gave me air to breath

they give me rain

they give me snow

they shaped my life they gave me so much room to grow;

I learned that it’s ok for some to go and some to stay,

they shaped my life

they made me love who I am today;

and I know that life is good♥

Learning about myself..

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about myself. But before you go thinking I'm selfish, hear me out. I am on the ImPRessions account for the school of journalism, and this week we've been picking freshman to blog about their experience as freshman in the jschool. This lead me to think about the person I was as a freshman, and ultimately helped me realize how much I have changed from two years ago. I don't know when I realized just how much I've grown, but I have become increasingly aware of it. Regardless, I'm glad I've finally realized who I am, and who I want to be. Knowing who I am, what I stand for, and what I believe in allows decision-making in all aspects of my life to be virtually effortless, as well as making my like seem more fulfilled, and just makes me a generally happy and positive person.

Also, I found these questions that someone on a blog I follow answered about themselves, and thought it would be interesting to do them myself..

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

A perfect fall day, feeling carefree.

What is your greatest fear?
I think getting old, and death.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?
I admire Coco Chanel very much, although our lives are in no way similar. I also hugely admire Queen Elizabeth I and Amerlia Earhart. See a trend?

Which living person do you most admire?
I really do admire Lady Gaga. Say what you want, but she's true to herself. Also, my dad.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I stress very easily.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?
I dislike when people lack passion about something in their lives.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Shoes. Good coffee. Sunny weather.

On what occasion do you lie?
When I know I won’t feel guilty about it.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
mmm... I don't have a flat stomach.

When and where were you happiest?
Summertime in high school when I had absolutely nothing to do. Also, being a little kid sitting in the living room staring at the Christmas tree late at night.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I stress out about things too much.

If you could change one thing about your family what would it be?
That some of them don't get along.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Figuring out who I am (although its a constant process), and finishing my undergrad in three years.

If you died and came back as a person or thing what do you think it would be?
a 1940's movie star, a flapper in the 20's.

What is your most treasured possession?
Probably the doll I've had since I was 2.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Total dependence on others, having no one who cares about you.

Who are your heroes in real life?
Definitely my dad. He's awesome.

What is it that you most dislike?
People who lack goals and drive.

How would you like to die?
Unafraid, accepting, fulfilled

What is your motto?
"The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude."

Emmy Red Carpet Obsession

SO as most of you are perfectly aware, the Emmy's were last night. While I love TV and all, what I was most interested in was watching the lovely ladies walk the red carpet in their gorgeous gowns.

This year, it seems the trend was not the LBD, but the LND.. little navy dress. I was on the fence about it at first, but I've decided I like navy, it's a great summer alternative to black.

While most people think the ladies of Hollywood have been playing it safe on the red carpet the last few awards shows, I disagree. I think that it really is "the return of the lady". To me, many of the gowns being worn are very old Hollywood, classic looks. Can't go wrong there, unless you pick something unflattering.

Do awards shows make anyone else want to go to prom again?

Ok January Jones gooooooorgeous Versace dress was definitely my favorite look from the evening. LOOOOVE. This look has made best AND worst dressed lists since last night, but it get's the #1 spot in my book because it's a daring take on a classic look.
Sequins done right. Claire Danes looked PERFECT in this gown. Neutrals on the red carpet can be risky, but as you can see in the close-up, she was perfectly tanned so the dress didn't wash her out. Oh, and the gown? Swavorsky crystals, nbd.

Oh man, I'm OBSESSED with this plum gown on Kyra Sedgewick. This Monique Lhuillier is definitely the perfect gown for her. And her accessories are just right. I love that so many skipped the big necklaces and opted for sweetheart necklines.

Even though her hair looked a hot mess because of the humidity, this navy Oscar de la Renta gown is loooovely on Lea Michele. She absolutely does not look 5'2". I think to make this look a bit more classic she should have done some kind of updo, but maybe that's why she didn't. Regaurdless, hate the hair, obsessed with the dress.

Emily Blunt was 100% a Grecian goddess in this lavender Dior. And with John Krasinki on her arm, how can you go wrong? Gorgeous. Very old Hollywood. Great detail with the flowers scattered across, and I love the one-shoulder.

Oh man, did I love this Tony Ward dress on Kelly Osbourne. She has become quite the fashionista. I didn't notice the detail in the skirt last night, but it really makes the dress. And even though you can't see it here, the dress cuts down deep in the back making it subtly sexy. I don't think I love her hair though.

Tina Fey stayed true to her typical LBD dress, but with a twist. This Oscar de la Renta down is definitely a hit.

Kim Kardashian channeled Cleopatra in this flowy white Marchesa gown. Much better than last year's white Emmy's gown (the Emmy's were after Labor Day last year).

Jane Lynch!!! This Ali Rahimi gown is absolutely stunning on her. LOOOVE. Did NOT expect this from Sue Sylvester, but I love it.

Even though I think she looks more like she's going to the office than to the Emmys, this mint green dress is a GREAT color on Lo Bosworth, and the shoes are perfect. I love whatever that ring is on her hand too. She rarely goes wrong.

Recently retired Mary Hart (host of ET) wore a simple, yet detailed Romona Keveza gown. I think she, like Mindy Kaling below, could have done less with her hair though. She looks a bit 80's prom too, and it could have been avoided. But the dress, nonetheless, is gorg.

My mom will probably think I'm insane, but I really like Mindy Kaling's dress. Her hair? Not so much. She could have gone WAY LESS 80's prom with this gown. But I don't hate it.

I have to admit, I didn't even know who Jennifer Carpenter was before last night, but that dress is GORGEOUS. LOOOOVE it. Definitely a hit although I can't figure out who it's by.. anyone know?

Ok loooove Lauren Graham's Yigal Azrouel gown. It's sexy yet looks comfortable, and she added color by painting her nails red. Classic.

Worst Dressed:

As much as I hate to say it, I hated Christina Hendricks Zac Posen dress. The feathers are awful, and I'm just not a fan. It looks like a nightgown - eek!!!

Anna Paquin wore an Alexander McQueen Resort gown. I have to say, I like the dress, but I think she let it wear her. And it hits her hips at an odd spot. Can't say I love this.

Heidi Klum in a Marchesa LDB a Christian Louboutain heels. Can't say I love it. Heidi, we get you're a MILF, but a short dress to the Emmys? I don't love it.

Images courtesy Huffington Post, TVSquad.com

Pelotonia Inspiration

This past Friday, I was privledged enough to be able to attend the opening ceremomies of Pelotonia 2010 in Columbus with my friend Parker.

For those of you who don't know, Pelotonia is a bicycle race from Columbus to Athens (with the option of four stops in between). Every dollar raised is donated to the James Cancer Hospital at Ohio State University. In 2009, they raised over $4mil. for cancer research, with one goal: to end cancer.

During the opening ceremonies, an inspiring video was shown about beating cancer, featuring a woman who passed away several months ago with breast cancer giving a speech about defeating cancer. One thing she said really struck a cord with me:

"The key to being successful in your life's mission, is to have a passion for it."

Wow. So true. How different would the world be if everyone did what they were passionate about? Something to think about.

So, this week, I challenge you to do what you're passionate about. Whether it be finding a cure for cancer or playing outside - do it. No matter what.

Chase the lion.

Came across this the other day, and I really like it. Part of it also happenns to be the quote at the top of my blog. Something good to live by:

Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Criticize by creating. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and last day of your life. Don’t let what’s wrong with you keep you from worshiping what’s righ. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze new trails. Worry less about what people think and more about what you think. Don’t try to be who you’re not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away.

Chase the lion.

Top Style Essentials

As I've been gearing up for fall, and for the start of school, I've also been thinking about my fall wardrobe. What are the essentials that carry me from season to season, year to year? I've compiled a list of my personal style essentials (in no particular order!) below...

Heels. You can never own too many pairs of heels (sorry, Mom). Dressy, casual, going out, doesn't matter. My favvvvvorite shoe designer is Christian Louboutain. One day I hope to own many, many pairs of them. This may be my favorite shoe designed by him:

Investment Bag. This is necessary. Mine is a black leather Brighton bag with a silk lining (it secretly came from an auction:)). I dressed it up with a black and gold Chanel scarf. One day if and when I can afford it, my top investment choice will be a black quilted Chanel:


This in my opinion is the classic bag. The Birkin bag is also classic, depending on your style.



Striped Sailor Shirt. This summer I decided I needed one of these. Its nautical but classic, and can be dressed up or down. Mine is from F21, and is fitted, but they can also be found in more loosely fitting styles too.

Men's White Shirt. Although this is an item that I'm still in search of for my wardrobe, this is something that can be worn with almost anything. Wear it with skinny jeans and flats, or belt it and wear it with heels. This is a look that is absolutely timeless. I have yet to find the perfect one, but I know it's out there somewhere!


Pearls. Classic. Wear a short strand with your LBD for a classic Audrey look, or long draped strands for a more "edgy" look. Either way, they are classic. I have a pair of real ones from my grandmother (the most classic pearls are hand-me-downs) a fake pair for non-formal occasions, and long strands of pearls for draping.


Cocktail Rings. They don't have to be giant diamond rings. In fact, they don't have to be real at all. That's not the point of cocktail rings. The pont is for them to be big and bold, and to draw attention. They make a statement. When you're holding a drink, I gaurantee they'll be noticed;) Here are a few of mine:

Nail Polish. Nude, clear and red are the most classic colors. However, we young ladies can wear color and get away with it. I have about 30 polishes in MANY different colors.

I usually don't match my nails and toes, and like to wear bright colors year round. Regaurdless of whether you stick with classics or go a little more bold, your nails are a blank canvas.

Little Black Dress. I have about 6 LBD's. I have casual ones and dressy ones. Summer and winter dresses. The perfect LBD will reveal itself to you when you least expect it, so always keep your eyes peeled! The LBD is a blank canvas, adding bangles, cocktail rings, fun shoes, whatever. The LBD will NEVER go out of style.

Cardigans. Yes, plural. I have cardigan in eeeevery color. Wear them with T-shirts, dresses or dress clothes and a white button-up. Point is, they go with everything, and you can even buy them in summer-weight and wear them as a bathing suit cover-up.

Blazer. Dress it up, dress it down. Wear it with shorts, wear it with jeans, wear it with a skirt. Wear it with a dress, wear it with slacks. The blazer is one of the MOST versatile items you can have in your wardrobe - it instantly classes-up any look.

This one is mine from Charlotte Russe, and pretty casual. I also have a khaki blazer, and a more dressy suit-jacket blazer.

Animal print. This is something that adds the perfect amount of style and edge when it's worn right. In my opinion the key to animal print it subtlety - not too much. My favorite piece of animal print in my wardrobe are my Guess pumps:

I've also been on the lookout for an animal print scarf, which would work great paired with a red or black sweater this fall.

Ballet Flat. Chic, timeless. First made popular by Audrey Hepburn and Bridget Bardot, ballet flats have become an essential to every girls wardrobe. I have flats in almost every color, but the ones I wear most are my black and red pairs.

When I am rich and famous, I will be buying the most classic pair out there - Chanel:

Aviators. In my opinion, the most classic sunglasses. First created in WWII, and made popular by Tom Cruise in the movie Top Gun. I have two pairs - on in black and one in brown.

Bangles. Whether you're adding a stack of colorful bangles to a casual outfit, or adding gold or silver bangles to a cocktail dress, bangles are a classic look that announce your arrival in style.

An "in" piece. While filling your wardrobe with classics is crucial, it's ok to have a couple "of the moment"pieces too. Whether it be long drapey vests, or socks with heels, these looks come and go. You shouldn't spend a lot of money on these pieces like you would with a more classic piece (like those mentioned above) but these can still be made your own by pairing it with classic pieces.

These are my personal essentials.. what are yours?