Unconscious Path: Scars to Epiphany

April 5 - May 4th, 2013 The Goodall Gallery at Columbia College has been hosting the Senior B.A. Art Exhibition.  Now for those that do not know I did attend Columbia College and I am very fond of their art program.  So when they released the dates for the show I just knew that I had to attend.  The show is open to the public but if you have any questions regarding hours or days that the gallery may be closed, I've listed their information.   If you have time and are in the area I would recommend checking this show out.  Here is a sneak peek.

Each body of work explores the idea of unconscious self discovery or more so the path to self discovery.  Through each piece you witness the obstacles by which mankind comes to be aware of himself and his relation to a much larger and complex world. 

The artists being showcased are Jesse Cody, Heather Endicott, Brittany Johnson, Anne Meyers, Cassie Parham, and Demetria White.

Goodall Gallery

Spears Center for the Arts

1301 Columbia College Drive

Columbia, SC  29203

803-786-3899

www.columbiasc.edu

This Week In Retrospect: Time to Relax

Sorry everyone I know I haven't posted in a couple of days but it's simply because I been super busy with work, preparing to move, going to school, and life in general.  I have recently started a new workout regime and it's definitely a killer.  It definitely takes time and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle.  No wonder everyone is so unhealthy.  In between work and the gym all I want to do is sleep.  I'll update everyone on that later.  I've definitely been way too stressed.  This week has been one to remember or maybe even one that I'd like to forget.


So what exactly have I learned and witnessed this week.

1. Living a healthy lifestyle is harder than it seems.  Willpower and support from others come in at an all-time low when you're trying to better yourself.  
2. Balancing life is also tricky but it is necessary.
3. Getting enough sleep is very important.  I was late to a few appointments because I got a little too friendly with the snooze button.
4. Never underestimate the power of effective time and financial management.

Okay so this week wasn't full of thought provoking revelations.  I was so busy.  I'm going to work on a schedule that will allow me to maximize my efficiency throughout the day.  Well, this weekend I had time to relax with family and friends. 

Until Next Time...

Words To Live By

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do.  So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor.  Catch the trade winds in your sails, Explore. Dream. Discover. 
 - Mark Twain

It's taken me long enough to write this simply because it took a lot of thought and there were times where what I wanted to say could not be put into words.  Change is daunting no matter how small.  Change provokes a fear in most that can be so destructive that it prevents us from taking a chance that may lead us to a better place or a better way of living.

Today, I just wanted to offer reassurance to those that are attempting to make a change in their lives.  It can be anything...moving, changing careers, or something as simple as adopting a pet.  Lately, I have found myself attempting to make a much desired change in my life and even though it's not the first time it just seems to come with so many more risks this time around.  However, no matter how daunting I'm determined to make this change and I'd like to share with you some inspiration that has proven to be very good advice.  Hopefully this advice will help to make us more confident when striving to achieve our goals and make that change. 

1.  Fear should motivate you.

Fear does not always have to be a detriment to accomplishing goals.  Listen to that fear that you feel.  Often it's an indicator that you're doing something right.  To not feel fear/anxiety/desperation would mean that we did not wish for that change to work out.  Trust yourself and work through your feelings. 

2.  Eliminate Adverse Commitments

Look at your list of things to do.  Now eliminate the ones that directly interfere with what you want to accomplish.  A bit ruthless...yes because you did agree to those tasks but that was before you realized that living the best possible life was the most important task on your list.  Sure you're going to disappoint people but that's fine because life is full of disappointments.  Buildings will not burn and children will not die.  You have to live for yourself and you have to live with the decisions that you make.  There are only so many hours in the day.  Respect yourself and your needs enough to say "I appreciate the opportunity but no thank you" and please let it be final.  

3.  Respect life and death.

Death is the final act in life.  It's a tedious act that takes years to accomplish so let that process be your motivator.  Understand and accept that we will not live forever.  Thus, we have no idea how long we will have to live out our dreams.  Accept that and use it to motivate you to begin living out your dreams today.  We've seen lives cut short so we know that it may happen to anyone.

4.  Ignore the negativity.

There is no doubt in my mind (and there should be none in yours) that you will face opposition once you decide to make this change.  There may even be laughter if things don't work out the way that you expected but ignore that.  If any of the things that people say were true they would have been said before you took the chance.    Place yourself around people who will encourage you.  The naysayers will never know the growth, the pleasure, or the euphoria that results from you accomplishing your goals.  

5.  Surround yourself with people that inspire and encourage you.

These people are people who you respect, admire, and attain satisfaction from simply being around.  You should put yourself around people that are living in a way that you view as a model.  These are the people that when you approached them with your idea they thought of ways to help you.  They will give you honest opinions and feedback when it is needed.   These are the type of people that are integral in you reaching your goals.

6.  Stop Comparing

You are the only person like you.  Sure there are people who may resemble you but you are one of a kind.  It simply is not fair to compare yourself to someone else.  The means by which they live are acceptable to them and even though you may like what appears to be grand it frankly is not your life. We each have a different set of talents, experiences, and gifts that by no means makes us inferior or superior to another person on this earth.  

7.  Banish the Self-Doubt

You have all these other negative entities trying to stop you so why add to your own pool of sorrows?  If you were not good enough to accomplish what you set forth to accomplish then you would or should have never thought of it.  If you want it go get it.  Holding yourself back with thoughts is just absurd.  If you knew how powerful your thoughts were you'd never think a negative thought again.  

Change in life is inevitable but initiating change can be crippling for some.  No matter how small, any change that may change your life for the better is worth pursuing.  Living the life that you dream of is living life to the fullest.  Never be ashamed or deterred from your pursuit.  Live courageously and by doing so you will be closer to reaching your full potential.  

  

Must Haves No. 1

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  1.     Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein (Amazon)
  We all get a little nostalgic sometimes and this book brings back so many memories.  It’s full of witty poems for all ages that will surely ignite your imagination.  Did you know that Shel Silverstein wrote the song A Boy Named Sue (Johnny Cash)?  Some of my other favorites by Mr. Silverstein include Falling Up and A Light in the Attic.
  2.        Maroon ‘Trill.’ Beanie (sosorella.com)
  Overall my taste in fashion is pretty multifaceted.  While I love the sleek and classic look, I also appreciate the urban and modern look.  This beanie just embodies that for me.  It’s simple but trill.
  3.       Very Irrestible Givenchy (Sephora)
  I intended to purchase this fragrance the last time that I went to Sephora.  I just love the balance of floral and musk.  Maybe, this list will jog my memory the next time I walk into a Sephora. 
  4.        Abstract Floral Print Pencil Skirt (New York & Company)
  Like I said, I like the sleek and classic look.  The pencil skirt is undoubtedly a classic piece but the abstract floral print gives it a well-deserved update. 
  5.        YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch (Sephora)
  Typically I’d have a problem with spending so much money ($40) for a beauty product but after being given the chance to try this product I can definitely say that it is worth the asking price.
  6.       Jurassic Park Tee (Forever 21)
  First of all let me state that Forever 21 is definitely one of my favorite places to go for graphic tees.  They’re affordable but still very cute.  Jurassic Park is also one of my favorite movies so I just have to have this shirt.  
  7.       Chambray Shirt Dress (Target)
  I’ve always liked these dresses but could never find one that was light enough for warmer weather.  This dress is definitely what I have been looking for; it’s appropriate for work and the weekend.
  8.       Belted Cigarette Pants (Forever 21)
  Truth be told, I only want these pants because we have a wear khaki pants for work this summer.   Khakis are not my first choice in attire but if I have to wear them then I’d prefer that they not be frumpy.
  9.         Bowser Tee (Forever 21)
  I’m definitely a fan of Super Mario Brothers and this tee is just so fun.  It embodies summer and would pair perfectly with a pair of cutoff shorts.  This top is what I’d typically prefer to wear on most weekends.
  
  Now if I only had a personal shopper.....
  
  
  

Communicating Effectively

Last night while reflecting on my day with a friend, I found a recurring situation quite displeasing.  It became apparent to me that the fine art of verbal communication in a public setting eludes quite a few people.  I'm no expert but I did major in both Business Administration and Communication Studies.  So while drinking my tea and discussing the issue with my friend I compiled a list of tips that everyone should keep in mind when socializing with those who are less familiar with your mannerisms.

Be Knowledgeable
I could not possibly stress how important it is to know what you are talking about.  Unfiltered ignorant commentary on any subject will get you nowhere in any social arena.  It may get you some attention, but not the sort of attention that anyone seeks.  Please educate yourself and if by some chance you find yourself involved in a conversation that focuses on matters that you have no knowledge about please be quiet and listen.  You could possibly learn something.

Be Confident
What you have to say is important.  So say it with the confidence that it deserves.  Oh and for the love of all that is glorious left in this world please leave the inconsistent language in your childhood.  Every other word/sound should not be a 'like' or 'um', it is decreasing your credibility.  Also, never ever after this point should you precede any statement with 'I may be wrong' or anything comparable.  You know what you're saying so say it without the disclaimer.  If you are wrong then God bless the soul that provides you with the knowledge that you are about to receive.

Be Concise & Clear
Your words deserve a clear and concise medium in which to reach the masses (or the 2 or 3 people listening).  Please pronounce and enunciate clearly.  For a few it's as simple as slowing down and focusing when you speak.  A personal tip:  Open your mouth more when you speak, literally.  It almost forces you to pronounce each syllable.  This is a little harder to perfect but practice get a lot closer to perfection than wishing does.

Be Courageous, Honest, and Tactful
You are brilliant and what you have to say deserves to be heard.  Just remember to say it in a tactful manner.  If you can't say it without obscenities or yelling then it should not be said until you can convey your thoughts without inspiring a physical or verbal altercation.

Your goal is to be honest and tactful in voicing your thoughts, because sometimes it takes courage to speak up.  So don't let what you have to say be upstaged by ignorance, obscenities, or inconsistencies.

Diamondz Trendy Boutique

Courtesy of  https://www.facebook.com/DiamondzTrendyBoutique

This past weekend I got the chance to attend Diamondz Trendy Boutique's Chanel & Ciroc Party.  During the party attendees were able to enjoy a few appetizers and some spirits all while shopping for a few unique and trendy pieces of jewelry.  After much browsing and a little sipping I decided on these two pieces.

This necklace was also available in turquoise.  Both were $10.

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This really cool ring and bracelet combo. It was $5.

She had plenty of other pieces that I really wanted to purchase including handbags and over sized clutches however, in order to curb my habit of overspending I only took enough cash for 1-2 pieces.  Both pieces are really great quality and reasonably priced.  I look forward to purchasing a few more pieces from Diamondz Trendy Boutique.  


Visit their Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/DiamondzTrendyBoutique

Happenings This Weekend #1

As it turns out this weekend was very busy for me (hence no post yesterday).  I was able to hang out with a few really good friends while making a few more.  All in all it was pretty good.  My friend, Raven (you'll be seeing a lot of her), and I were able to see a pretty good concert.  I was invited to do a little modeling work at a local club called Soundstage here in Columbia for Sheen Magazine.  Sheen Magazine was there for the Ace Hood concert and consequently we were able to go backstage and view the concert.  It was fun.  We also went to a little 'jewelry party' where we were able to purchase a few pieces of sparkling fun (review will come soon).  Now we're relaxing outside, well I'm updating this blog, but either way it's a much needed break from the monotony of the everyday 9 to 5.   Well, back to relaxing for me, ttyl.

I hope you all had a great weekend also.

Healthy Social Circle

"A true friend sees the good in everything, and brings out the best in the worst of things"

Sasha Azevedo 

About two weeks ago I went to lunch with an acquaintance who I hadn't seen in a while until  she contacted me this past month to set up a lunch date.  I was a little suspicious initially because her reasoning behind the invite was to get clarification.  Basically, she wanted to know why we were no longer friends.  The situation/friendship itself was toxic to say the least so when it came to me cleansing myself and surroundings of negative entities (something I'll discuss later as it's vital to a balanced life)  all unhealthy relationships had to go also.

"Misery loves company."

John Ray

Your mental, physical, spiritual, and social health is of utmost importance.  Cleansing your social circle and cultivating a healthy circle of friends is necessary if you want to obtain a balanced life.  If your friends are negative and disrespectful then it's going to affect you either directly or indirectly.  Others who are looking at you will ultimately believe that you are also negative and disrespectful.  You have to separate yourself from those types of people.  If getting you involved with their most recent bout of drama is their primary goal in every conversation then you have to assess if they're friends that are worth keeping.  Your interactions with those around you (especially friends) should leave you with an uplifting feeling.  If a relationship does not give you the support that you need then you should consider distancing yourself from those people and those types of situations.  People who are miserable are comparable to crabs they will grab onto you and try to pull you down with them. 
  

"Inhale peace, exhale excellence"

Unknown

When we take in positive energy we do more good for ourselves and others.  This is what I had to explain to my friend at lunch.  Her issues and the way she handled them were what made me decide to distance myself and end communication with her.   We all have problems and issues that may arise but generally when they come about we look for ways to fix them.  However, some people only use those problems and issues to add to their already abundant cluster of mess.  Drama is entertaining to them.  They need that in order to feel as though they are living fulfilling lives.  It's awful and twisted because no matter what advice or how many solutions you give them they will only find something murkier and more damaging to submerge themselves in.  You would be wasting your energy, time, and intelligence on people who never had any intentions on getting better.  In essence, you would only be depleting yourself.  That is energy that could be put into accomplishing something that is actually attainable.  Don't kill yourself trying to help those who don't want to be helped.

  

Letting go is hard and it's uncomfortable.  No one wants to be told that they did not make the cut.  I know some people who I distanced myself from that are now my enemies.  Though I think that if one of my friends told me that our relationship was unhealthy I would be upset at first but ultimately that threat of losing a friend would trigger some self evaluation.  The friends that I have are people that I truly care about so I will do some soul searching to see if what I do or how I behave as it pertains to our relationship is actually detrimental.  If it is then some change needs to happen and if not then we can both go our separate ways and just know that we were headed down two different avenues.  Friendships should never leave you feeling empty.    

Outfit of the Day: Another Day Another Dollar

Why so serious?!

Cardigan: Target; Blouse: JCPenney; Necklace: Juicy Couture; Skirt: Forever21; Shoes: Wet Seal; Earrings: Charlotte Russe; Belt: Thrifted

The days here have been so lovely and warm lately it's a shame I had to spend majority of the day inside.  No worries it's all for the sake of paying bills and being a 'grown-up'.   I do apologize for the informal setting, I took these photos at work (shh).  I'm working on finding a place to shoot these types of pictures. However, until then please bear with me.

I absolutely love this simple color pairing.  I feel as though I can never go wrong with neutrals.  I absolutely love this belt (as evidenced by the wear and tear)  I kept the jewelry fairly simple aside from necklace (which was an awesome present from a dear friend).  Sometimes I find it pretty hard to pair earrings with this necklace but these simple earrings go perfectly without making me look cluttered.  I did start the day out with heels but later changed into these flats to run errands. I kept my face simple just winged liner, gold eyeshadow, a little highlight, and my favorite lipcolor...Pink Nouveau (MAC).  

I plan to go through my closet later and donate the items that I don't wear to decrease clutter or maybe to free up some room for more clothes.  I love shopping.  Who knows?  

Always Look Your Best

"I don't mind making jokes, but I don't want to look like one."

Marilyn Monroe

It's always an awkward situation when I'm questioned about my tendency to 'fix' myself up before leaving my house.  Leaving my home looking like I had no idea that I'd be going out in public today is simply not something that I'm willing to do.  You should feel comfortable when others see you.  We all know that it can nerve-racking when you see someone and your only thought is 'why couldn't I have worn something else/brushed my hair/or look like her'.   I understand that life is hectic and what you planned isn't always what occurs but even the slightest bit of tweaking makes a difference and can ease your nerves.  

"There are no ugly women, just lazy ones."

Helena Rubinstein

Why not work to put your best foot forward?  Looking your best or at least presentable takes a little work but it pays off.  You'll feel better about yourself and people will want to be around you because chances are if you feel good you'll be in a better mood.  You just have to take the time out of your schedule to do it.  It gets easier as you progress.

So where exactly should you begin?  Well, here are a few tips.

• Plan your outfits in advance.
• Groom yourself.  This means wash your face and comb your hair.
• Invest in basic makeup. You know powder, mascara, lipstick, maybe even eyeliner.
• Pay attention to details.  Clean your nails, moisturize your skin, and please wash/iron your clothes.
• Shop quality not quantity.  
• Keep it simple.  Chances are if you think it might be too much it probably is.  
• Be prepared.  Keep things like lotion, lip balm, mascara, & one go-to lip color on you or somewhere easily accessible.
• Know what looks good on you.  If you're not sure ask for an honest opinion. 

It doesn't have to be hard and it's not costly, trust me.  I clearly don't make as much as I'd like to make but I don't have to look it.  Take some pride in the way that you look.  You're gorgeous and absolutely fabulous, so display that.  

Steals & Deals: Ross

I am a huge fan of bargains, however, I also value quality over quantity.  Just because it's cheap doesn't mean that I'm going to buy it.  I really have to inspect items and make sure that they're good quality.  So while visiting my boyfriend I decided to do little shopping (aka: girly stuff) while he stayed in and took a nap (aka:  manly stuff).


I ventured in a few stores but nothing really caught my eye.  Eventually I saw that there was a Ross store so I decided to take a look.  Now normally I would not even bother with Ross unless I have the steel-hearted determination to find a bargain.  The stores are just simply too big with little to no organization.  Other shoppers don't take into consideration the fact working retail is strenuous and they just ravage the poor stores (much to my dismay and the employees I'm sure).  However, sometimes on rare occassions you are granted easy access to good finds and this day was my lucky day.  Check out what  I found....

Black Sweater $3.99

Gray Sweater $3.99

Pink Blouse $9.99

I love light weight sweaters even during the Spring because even though it's warm outside the office that I work in stays pretty chilly.  Ross has some pretty good quality clothing.   I think I will frequent them more often.

"The world is a dangerous place.  Not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it."

-Albert Einstein

My thoughts and prayers go out to those killed and injured in Boston.  Those families that lost loved ones have my deepest sympathies.  

Review: The Suite Bar and Grill

Background:  This past weekend I went to visit my significant other in Columbus, GA and of course I wanted to go out and explore.  He's a pretty private guy but he's always willing to entertain me.  So we met some of his friends at The Suite.

Actual Review:  The Suite is called a bar and grill but if I'm not mistaken they specialize in Italian cuisine.  Let me begin by saying the food there is awesome.  They don't have a large menu which in my opinion is great.  I have never liked too many choices not only because it's confusing but also because a large selection likely means that they have a number of different 'cooks'.  I prefer to have a few 'chefs' that have specialities.  That way there is less of a chance that you will receive average or poorly prepared food.  The staff is very knowledgeable.  Our waiter knew so much about the cuisine and the wine (oh the wine was also beautiful).  He explained  the history of the bottle that we chose and was just amazing.  

The restaurant is actually split into two sections.  There is the restaurant dining side but the other side is a bar with a club like atmosphere so it has something to offer everyone.  The overall ambiance is sultry.  It's probably what everyone expects when you think of Italian restaurant.  Dim lights and candles...it's beautiful.  

The Suite Bar & Grill

5300 Sidney Simons Blvd.

Columbus, GA  31904

(762) 821-1209

I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Columbus.  It is truly a great restaurant.  

Monday Inspiration #1

Here's a little inspiration for this morning.

Have a Happy Monday Everyone!

-Until Next Time

Lesson Learned: Don't Lend Money to Friends

These do not exist.

Oh, young silly me!  How naive of me to believe that everyone that makes a promise is pressured by some noble obligation to keep that promise made. If only they were, then maybe I wouldn't be out of nearly $1000 all at once.  In case you're wondering, this rant is about lending money and why I believe it is a horrible thing to do.  Okay, let me rephrase myself...lending anyone money with the expectation of actually receiving any of that money back is a bad idea.  Much better.

Why lending money (with the expectation of repayment) is a bad idea?

1.  Well the indication that you want to be repaid makes me honestly believe that you may have needed that money.  So if you need that money why would you give it away?  You worked hard for that, use it for what you need.  

2.  It creates tension.  No one likes owing anyone.  I have never seen a situation where the situation hasn't been tense or caused some dispute.  Oh, and don't even think of involving a contract. It now makes the other person feel as though you think they're not trustworthy.  Contracts are for banks not friends.

3.  You're not helping them (more towards repeat borrowers).  Why do they need to borrow money?  Well, I'd like to think it's because they don't have any at the time (or ever).  Why don't they have money?  Maybe, their job doesn't pay well or maybe their lack of money is due to horrible financial planning, in either case the real problem isn't fixed simply because you alleviated their financial worries for the moment.

In any case lending money is just a bad practice, now this isn't to say that you can't give away money. You can do that but only if you have it to spare.  Anything (as far as money is concerned) outside of charity is a no-go.  True friends are hard to come by, don't let financial issues come between friendship.

Spring Haul

In anticipation of the warm weather headed this way I decided to do a little Spring shopping.  Check out what I bought…

(Left to Right, Top to Bottom:  Emerald Dress, JCPenney; Paisley Skirt, JCPenney; White Sheer Blouse, JCPenney; Gray/Tan Skirt, Dots; Coral Skirt, Charlotte Russe; Striped Dress, JCPenney; Cropped Denim Top, Charlotte Russe; Striped High/Low Shirt; JCPenney; Necklace, Juicy Couture; Sandals, Old Navy; Denim Vest, JCPenney)

I’m excited about all the things I bought and I’m so glad that the weather has finally warmed up here in South Carolina.  Now if I could just get control of these allergies.  

Balance, Happiness, and Confidence

'My life is a place of balance, happiness, and confidence.'

Life for most part is confusing and things happen that cause you to doubt yourself and those around you.  Some doubt is okay because it allows you to assess yourself, your situation, and the people you associate with.  That assessment is often a catalyst for change that can push you towards becoming a better person.  However, constant doubt is in no way healthy or needed.  It contributes to disruptive and harmful behavior that may damage you and your relationships.  Our 'nonbelief' or constant doubt of our abilities will only cause us to fulfill what we believe thus furthering our disappointment and digging us deeper into self doubt.  

So how exactly do we combat those negative beliefs, those persistent nagging thoughts of self doubt?

I choose to employ positive affirmations.  I start my day out with positive affirmations whether they're simple or complex (for those days that seem unbearable).  There's truth to the statement 'it's never as bad as it seems'.  Situations seem terrible because of how we view them.  Change your view and you ultimately change the situation and how you feel about it.  Positive affirmations help you to develop a positive outlook for every situation.  So every morning I try to start my day with a positive affirmation.  I say it out loud because to me it's a little more real that way.  Sure it may be childish whimsy but once you say it out loud it's just that much closer to being tangible.  

In case you're having some trouble coming up with affirmations of your own I've listed a few of my favorites for you.

1. I have no reason to doubt myself or my abilities.  I am a child of God and doubt does not belong where He is.  Where I am, He is.
2. Everything I need is right where I am, I just have to recognize it.
3. I am more than capable of accomplishing what I set out to do today.
4. In love, I deserve the best and I will not settle for anything less. Nor will I give anyone anything less than what I feel I deserve.
5. I know that today will be a great day because if I think it I can feel it and if I feel it then it must be real.

Oh and my personal favorite:

I will put on my big girl panties (or big boy britches) and deal with whatever comes my way!

Our own doubt and disbelief in ourselves, our abilities, and relationships contribute to our failure.  Don't get in your own way.  Wake up every morning (every afternoon...whenever) and remind yourself of how great you are, how great you can be, and how your dreams can come true.  Hey, maybe our affirmation for today should be 'today is the day our dreams will come true.'




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