Tag Archives: Lessons in Life

Engagement Pictures YEAH!

14 Oct

“Life is an endless struggle full of frustrations and challenges, but eventually you find a hair stylist you like.”  ~Author Unknown

I’ve made a huge mistake.

I’ve never been one to cry in my room after a bad haircut, or a bad color. Hair is hair.  It will grow back.  Don’t like the color, eh, you can live with it for 8 weeks.  And truth be told, I’ve never really had a BAD experience.  Well…except when I was in the 4th grade and Dad took me to get my haircut.  It was basically a bowl cut, and it wasn’t pretty.  But even then I didn’t cry, although I’m pretty sure my mom did.

Well, wouldn’t you know it, 4 days before our engagement pictures in Nashville with the beautiful and talented Kristine Neeley, I got my first bad color.  Normally, this wouldn’t bother me.  Like I said, hair is hair.  But, I’m a little nervous that people will look at the engagement pictures and say, “Well that’s odd, who is that girl The Boy is dating?”

It all started out so innocently, and with a conversation I’m sure many other women (and possibly men) have around this time of year.  There you are, sitting in the chair, wearing that ridiculous smock that reminds you of the bibs you had when you were a toddler, and the stylist asks, “So what are we doing today?”  And that’s where it gets tricky.  ”Well,” you say.  ”I think I’d like to go a little darker.”  It’s fall right, time to trade in the beachy blonde for a warm chocolate brown.

Maybe it is the moving around a lot, because you can’t really get used to having one person doing your hair, but I’ve learned to just trust the stylist.  I’ll normally say a little bit about what I’d like and then just let them work their magic.  However, this time, being that it was a couple days before the engagement session, I wanted to be extra careful.  I brought a picture.  And not a celebrity picture, you know the kind, when someone brings in a picture of Jennifer Aniston or Rhianna if you’re bold, and wants their hair to look just like theirs.  It was a picture of me, from when I really loved how my hair was done.

One thing you learn in law school is to be to the point, short, concise and say no more than you need too.  That just confuses people.  But even with my short and sweet request, complete with Exhibit A, there must have been a miscommunication.

I gave her:

Exhibit A

And after being cut, colored, and washed…I came out looking like this:

Without the tan of course...

We’re talking jet black hair people.  And as much as I like Jersey Shore…didn’t really plan on fist pumping in our engagement photos.  Maybe God is punishing me for watching the Jersey Shore.  That makes more sense, I deserve it ;)

While I didn’t cry when I left, I may or may not have had a minor freakout in the car after I kept catching glimpses of myself in the rearview. Suddenly I found myself wondering what outfit would go best with an Ed Hardy hat. The color must have been slowly seeping into my head.

So friends, the bad news is…I have jet black hair that will not be toned down no matter how many time I scrub and shampoo it.

Good news is…My hair has never been cleaner, and I’m considering talking with The Boy to see if we can do a Jersey Shore theme for our photos.  Plus, now you all can expect to see the Jersey Turnpike at the reception.

Happy Friday and fist pumps all around.

Love, your blast in a glass.

Don’t be a Stranger

7 Oct

Photo from We Heart It

As anyone in law school knows, and anyone who is thinking about law school will find out, fall of your 2L year feels like a tornado. A cyclone of class, interviews, applications, and job hunting. We are merely two days away from fall break and I already feel like I have a full semester behind me.

In the midst of this storm, you are preparing for interviews, updating your resume and combing your writing samples for mistakes. You get to know your resume like the back of your hand, and are ready to answer any question that might come your way. Let’s just put it this way…you definitely want to be candid, but you don’t want to be surprised in an interview.

This is why it was odd that while I was going through the interview process this fall, I suddenly found myself going off script.

I was sitting in an interview one Friday afternoon when I was asked about my previous summer experience. Softball right. OK. I told them about my writing, about going to court with the attorneys, and the special projects I was a part of. But then, I was asked, “What was the most important thing you learned from that experience.”

Before I could think about it, I said, “How to see people.” Immediately, in my head, I panicked. What was I saying?! How to see people, come on. That’s not a concrete answer. They are probably wondering what’s wrong with me. Not surprisingly, I was asked to explain.

Click here to read the rest.

An Officer, a Lawyer…Dad

20 Jun

He didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.  ~Clarence Budington Kelland

A Day for Dad. From We Heart It.

Last weekend, the Boy came to town and it was such a great weekend.  Well, more than a weekend.  He came in Tuesday night, we went on a roadtrip to Chicago to see family, a great concert, and best of all was that he didn’t have to go home the very next day.

Friday afternoon, when I got back from my internship, the Boy and his family met me at my apartment and we made our way up to his family’s house for the weekend.  I know I’ve mentioned it before but I count it as such a blessing that I not only have met an amazing man but bonus…his family is fantastic and I love them to pieces.

We had a blast with them this past weekend.  We hung out, laughed, lounged on the porch, went to the farmers market…but one of the coolest things to me was an event we went to Saturday night…

You see, Saturday night, we went to a benefit at the fairgrounds for Sargent Dulle, a Warren County officer who was killed in the line of duty.  It was one of those events where you know you should be sad but you simply can’t because you look around and are amazed at the immense and intense outpouring of love and support from everyone in the room.

It was at the fairgrounds, and it was a beautiful night. Officers and their families, firefighters, and hundreds from the community came to show their support.  It was truly beautiful to see a community come together.

What was really interesting for me was to watch the Boy’s family.  The Boy’s dad is on the force and has been for a number of years in many capacities.  When we walked in, familiar faces came up to shake his hand and marvel at how his Boy had grown, because you see they remember when he was a little boy playing around the office and coming to see dad.  There were smiles, hugs, new stories to be shared, and old stories to be remembered.

Mom and Dad Last Father's Day

As all of this was going on around me, I kept thinking about how the Boy’s dad would always say that he’s always wanted better for his boys.  He wants them to go on to do better and be better than what he was.  And I think all parents want that for their kids.

But you see, as I was standing there watching what was going on around me, and thinking about all the things I’ve learned from and about my dad, I’m not sure if there is better success.

These men set the bar high.  Success, as I am beginning to understand it from these men, is measured in relationships.  It is measured in experience and in giving of yourself.

When I think of dad I think of Haagen-Dazs ice cream as likely one of my first solid foods. I think of rolling in the leaves at Jonquil and sitting in his grip by the window looking at the stars and listening to Pirates games.  I think of laughing till my belly hurts, more John Wayne and Jimmy Stewart movies than I could ever try to remember and drawing on legal pads in his office.  I think of Bruce Springsteen music being played in the basement and rocking me to sleep while he sang Brown Eyed Girl.  I think of card games, ok, him beating me at card games, late night road trips to Michigan and him falling asleep with a book in his hands.

But beyond those memories, I think of the example he’s set.  Always forgive.  Never be to proud to say you’re sorry.  Love unconditionally.  Be generous and help whoever comes your way.  Listen. Be patient.  Always be curious and never stop learning. Sometimes what needs to be said is not what is easiest to be heard.  Say your please and thank you’s.  Believe in and support those around you. Family comes first.  Always work hard and do your best.  And find your passion.

Dad

The thing is, your parents always want you to do better than they did. But the older I get and the more I learn about and from my parents, in this case my dad, the more I am so proud to be their daughter and think that if I could simply be half the amazing person my dad is…I will have done alright!

I love you dad.  Thank you for leading by example, for always loving me and supporting me no matter what. Thank you for encouraging me to be the best person I can.

Dad, you are my hero and I am so glad you are in my life.  Thank you for your wisdom, and thank you for being the best example a girl can have of a loving man, father and husband.

Happy Father’s Day!

The Truth About Tinsel, Trees, and Traditions

24 Dec

“Christmas was on its way. Lovely, glorious, beautiful Christmas, upon which the entire kid year revolved.” ~A Christmas Story

Does that picture make my teeth look like they're chattering?

Earmuffs Santa. I’ve a feeling you’re not going to like this.

I’m not going to lie to you, Christmas is not my favorite holiday.  (I can almost hear the sleigh bells halting and making a last-minute detour to skip my house). But before you start to question if my heart is two sizes too small, let me explain myself.

It used to be.  As a kid I lived for it.  I loved tearing through the gifts and (as any kid would) hated when Mom would make us sit at the top of the stairs for a picture on Christmas morning as the four of us kids jostled for the best position once she said go. But as I grew older, what I loved were the people, the traditions.

It was the craziness of 15 cousins, you’re Grammy cupping your face in her hands after a big hug as she told you how much she missed you.  It was Christmas Eve at Grandma’s house, the laughter and chatter of family and warm welcoming fire.  It was falling asleep on the car ride home while snow flakes fell softly against the window and Dad reading Twas the Night Before Christmas before tucking us into bed.  It was the sound of trains, the ugly ornament contest, the smell of cinnamon rolls and Grandad’s hug after you gave him his 20th “World’s Greatest Grandpa” mug.  It was those moments, those places, those people and those memories that made Christmas my favorite holiday.

We all have those traditions and at one point or another we watch them change.  Christmas is different now.  We moved, people passed away, and traditions changed. It’s been tough as someone who loves family traditions, but these past couple years, I’m beginning to see the beauty in it all.  This is the in between time, the exciting part.  We’re making our own traditions, borrowing the old and embracing the new and making them our own.

Real tree of course

So while this Christmas I sometimes miss what I knew as a child and people I held so dear as well as those I love who are far away this holiday, including my best friend (things are just not nearly as fun without him) I’m realizing it’s just part of the growth, the evolution, the change, and that there is so much beauty wrapped up in the in-between.

Yep, I have the sneaking suspicion me and Christmas…will make up some day soon.

Someday I’ll look back and remember this as my kids fall asleep in the backseat on the way home on a Christmas Eve that was filled with rich tradition that they’ll always remember.  Caesar doesn’t count, although he is loving this Atlanta Christmas in the 50 degree weather so I’m sure he’d welcome this tradition.

And because it’s Christmas Eve here’s a little something from a Christmas classic:

“Christmas Day is in our grasp so long as we have hands to clasp. Christmas Day will always be just as long as we have we. Welcome Christmas while we stand, heart to heart and hand in hand”

See.  My heart isn’t made of stone.  I’m off to go grab my favorite winter ale, put some Christmas music on and finish wrapping before Santa gets here.  Merry Christmas everyone!

Plan B

12 Jul

“The most successful people are those who are good at Plan B.” ~ James Yorke

I'm gonna need it

At this point I don’t know why I keep planning.  I’m throwing out the to-do lists, the sticky notes and the planner…well…I might hold on to the planner.  Just for a bit longer.  It’s my safety net.  I can’t cut ties yet.

How funny is it that not even a week after I let one thing go, releasing my clenched fist…I tighten it again on yet another thing.  Sometimes I wonder if I will ever learn…

If you haven’t already noticed, I am a planner.  Sometimes to a fault. Especially when it comes to big decisions in my life I like to think things out and figure out my plan of attack.

I don’t like when I have to deviate from said plan.  I get all bent out of shape.  You know how people always say, where one door closes another door opens.  I hate that.  I want the door I want to open to open!  It’s probably just locked, or needs some WD-40 but you better believe I’m going to get that door to open!  Turns out…and for probably good reason, every door is slammed shut and bolted up except for the one I need to go through, the one that’s best for me.  I’ve seen how this has forced me to go in the right direction, and I am thankful for that but for some reason it’s always surprising when it happens.  Call me stubborn.

When that door shuts, I am forced to go to Plan B.  This is exactly what happened last week.

The sign on Door A as it reads right now

Here’s the deal.  I am still in between what law school I will be at in a little over a month.  I have been accepted to go to a wonderful school and I’m excited, but I really want to go to a law school that I have been wait-listed for.  I just believe in my heart of hearts that it would be the best fit for me.  I’ve done everything I can to boost my chances should there be extra slots and honestly thought that when deposits were due just a couple days ago, they would have extra spots and they would call my number to tell me the good news.

Well…as some of your know, grad school admissions are just crazy now.  With so many out of job and looking to go back to school, programs are seeing an influx of students like they’ve never seen.  The admission people at this school have been fabulous at keeping me in the loop which I appreciate more than they know.  When I emailed them on the day deposits were due saying that I hoped some poor sap’s check got lost in the mail last week though, I got some back news back.  They received a record number of deposits and exceeded their numbers.

Waiting...

I was devastated.  I read the email and could feel the hot tears welling up.

I couldn’t believe it.  I was sure Plan A would fall in place.

I was able to get out a short sentence telling the Boy what had just happened (you know, so he doesn’t think I just spontaneously burst into tears like a mad woman) and he did the best thing he could have done at that moment.

He said, “I am so sorry J.  I know you probably don’t want to talk about it now, but when you do just let me know. I’ll be here.”

Later that afternoon we went on a LONG walk. I laid it all on the table.  We talked about the pros and cons, what to do next and why Plan B can be just as good or even better than Plan A.

He was so right (but don’t tell him I said that ;) .  He voiced everything I knew but just needed to hear.  Ok, so Plan A looks like it may not work out.  That doesn’t mean we abandon it.  That doesn’t mean we give up or throw in the towel.  BUT it does mean we start to formulate a Plan B.

Onward and Upward!

I felt so much better after our 4 mile walk/talk.  I know that no matter where, I want to go to law school.  I have two great options right now so I need to do everything I can to try to get to school #1 but also pursue #2. So that’s what I’m doing now.  Rethinking, reformulating and relaxing in the fact that I am going to do all I can and that eventually, I will be in the right place.

Seriously, there should be a 12 step program for people like me.  I’m learning :)

As a side-note…it is truly amazing how much you learn about yourself and those around you when you push beyond your comfort zone.  As frustrating and as scary as this all seems at times, and no matter how many times I scrap a plan, I cherish this time!  It’s exciting and I am learning so much!  I am going to make a point to never be complacent, always try new things and stretch my limits because it’s in this scrapping of plans and sleepless nights that you figure out who you are and what makes you stronger.

You know what…I might have to ask for one of my sticky notes back.  Just to write this little gem on it.  Maybe put it on my mirror, or in my car or better yet, on my arm:

“If you want to make God laugh, tell him your future plans.” ~Woody Allen

In the words of D.A.R, “Yes, I know…but when will I ever learn” I’m right there with you sister. :)

How are you with Plan B? Ever had to re-route?

So Good

30 Jun

“He is good, so good.  And he treats your little girl like a real man should.” ~Carrie Underwood  

I know, I just quoted Carrie Underwood.  No, I’m not sure what wrong but I just couldn’t get enough of that song when I was driving home from Nashville this weekend.   

Maybe it was driving through the rolling hills of Tennessee…  

Maybe it was because I just had a great weekend with my boys in Nashville…  

Or maybe it’s because for the first time, I stopped worrying about it and just let it be…  

But as I was driving back from Nashville, thinking about the weekend, what’s ahead, new jobs, dreams, struggles, time together and time apart, family, friends and home, I came to the conclusion that everything is going to be good.  So good.   

I know it sounds simple, and it is, but sometimes that’s the hardest stuff for me to figure out.  Sometimes I overcomplicate and over analyze things.  I sometimes ask the wrong people for advice or psych myself out.  

The second question people ask when they hear I’m going to law school is about the Boy.  What is he going to do?   (Here’s the most asked question)

Ziplining this weekend in Nashville. I know, the hats are hot. Safety first kids.

It’s been just over a month since I packed up my life and headed south for the summer before making the trek up north for school in the fall.  So many new things were happening.  I was moving, going back to school in a new city and the Boy was graduating, and starting a new job.  I was torn between excitement for both of us and wishing we would be there together going through it all.  Some people had horror stories of long distance relationships going array and this did nothing to calm that nagging fear in the back of my head.  Again, sometimes I over think things.   

The Boy and I have definitely been a part.  He’s spent summers back home, or in Spain.  I had to travel for work a lot and holidays have been spent with respective families, he’d travel for running etc. And it’s always been good.  Not “good” like fine/so so or any other watered down version of this word that people toss around but good.  So good like the Carrie Underwood song.  Really really good.  It’s always been a time where we learn about ourselves and each other going through new things.  It’s when I get back from the day and can’t wait to hear from him, talk with him and hear what he’s up to.  It’s always tough not having my best friend around all the time to hang out with but it always makes me realize what I have and so excited to be there again.   

I know, I know.  I don’t normally share this type of stuff on my blog…nor do I normally quote Carrie Underwood.  I don’t know.  Maybe it’s the heat.  

The boy when we went to the GA Aquarium

Or…maybe it’s because I haven’t heard very many encouraging words about all this so for anybody else who has ever or will ever go through this…it will be something for you to think about and hold on to.   

I also write this to say thanks to those who have been amazing and so supportive through all this.  I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you.  

One of these people is the Law School Wife.  I read this post a couple of weeks ago and I think it hit the nail on the head.  The circumstances are different but the point remains the same.  She talks about how people would say they’d never stay together through law school cause it’s so hard blah blah blah, but after a year, she’s found that’s not the case.  She says law school didn’t break those people up.  Deeper issues or an incapadability did, not law school.  I think the same applies to long distance. She says,  

“Either you tackle the issues together, or you don’t. It’s not about law school. It’s just life. The couples who can’t handle the speed bumps, the curve balls, the stress of being an adult–those are the couples who will break up. The couples who know how to work through problems together, to work through stress together, to speak to each other with kindness even when the going gets tough, those who realize law school is just a phase and that work is just a job, those who know how to play together will stay together–”  

I love it. It’s not law school, or the distance or anything else that’s hard, life is hard.  She says some people/couples sink and some swim.  Law school, and I’d say anything tough like long distance etc., weeds out the sinkers.  And makes the swimmers stronger.    

 
 

Enjoying some of Sweetwater's Brew and watching the World Cup

 This coupled with talking with the boy and another dear friend’s comments I saw this weekend about long distance relationships being a great experience to learn about each other and grow has made me…dare I say it…excited.  

I have loved our weekends together, out having fun, exploring, laughing, seeing friends and doing things we’ve never done before. I love our talks during the week and how he can make me smile miles away.  I look forward to growing together as we learn about each other as he is starts a new job, I’m at law school and so much more.  

So…on the windy road home from Nashville, with Carrie Underwood playing as the backdrop after a perfect weekend behind me and infinite possibilities ahead of me, I decided no more overthinking, overcomplicating or worrying.  I came to the conclusion that I knew was the right one all along.  

So, to the people who doubt and ask about me and the Boy and how we’ll make it though, I can say with conviction and confidence that no matter where we are, these challenges and weekends and long nights are going to be so good.  

I can’t wait!  

Thanks Carrie ;)   

The Three Magic Words

17 Jun
“I also applaud the courage of umpire Jim Joyce to address this unfortunate situation honestly and directly.” ~MLB commissioner Bud Selig

Umpire Jim Joyce apologizes

 

As someone who worked in public relations, and is also a news junkie, I play imaginary consultant any time there’s a press conference, or a big news story.  I am a student of actions, impressions and appearances. 
 
I imagine what goes on behind closed doors before the press conference and before the first word is uttered.  What are the speech writers trying to convey?  What have the told the speaker about being sincere, what questions to avoid and what questions to take head on. 
 
Sadly, a lot of today’s public relations has become stone walling, “no comments” here,  and a little bit of “I’m not at liberty to address that” there.  Afraid to be transparent and address the problem head on.  Scared to say, “I’m sorry,” for fear it will show a crack in the shell, weakness or even worse. 
I am a firm believer, that in the public arena, in business, and in your personal life, the best thing you can learn is the importance of saying you’re sorry. 
 
I’ve been reading The Lawyerist where they posted the other day about how we all make mistakes and we can’t be too proud to admit it when we do.  Case in point and an example when public relations goes right…Umpire Jim Joyce and  Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga. 
Joyce blew a call that cost Galarraga a perfect game.  Companies, publicists, spokespeople and you and I should take note of what happened next because in my book, it is one of the best displays of good public relations I have seen in a while.  Not just public relations in terms of what someone is telling the other to say/do but how you represent yourself in public.  Because honestly, isn’t that all PR is?  Since each of us can’t have a PR consultant, I believe that learning from these examples will help us all do our own personal PR a little better. 
 
Instead of flying off the handle, Galarraga was sportsmanlike.  He gave a smile and went back to the mound.  You know he was probably just thinking, “You’re kidding me right?!?” and wanted to throw his hands up but he truly handled it with grace.  What I’ve learned is that that type of behavior is contagious. 
 
After Joyce saw the replay, he apologized.  He didn’t have to do that, but he realized he made a mistake and owned up to it.  Not only is this the right and admirable thing to do but do you see how the stand up behavior of both of these men diffused the situation.  What do you think would’ve happened if Galarraga went bizerk? 

BP CEO Tony Hayward

 

Compare this to what is happening with the BP oil spill.  

I have been glued to the TV anytime news of this comes up because I’m just fascinated with how BP is handling this. 
In the beginning, I distinctly remember an interview on the Today Show where Ann Curry was interviewing BP’s CEO Tony Hayward.  She told Hayward that she would give him the opportunity to apologize for what had happened.  What did he do…skipped around the question and the apology.  Someone on their legal or PR team must have told him to not apologize or admit they were to blame.  It was an interesting thing to watch as he squirmed around the apology and went on further to say, “I want my life back.”  PR FAIL.
 
Later, BP released this ad where Hayward apologizes for the spill and vows to make it right.  As the Huffington Post asks, sincere apology or damage control? 
 
I have no idea what they were telling Tony Hayward to say and do in those first weeks after the oil spill but from the very beginning it set up the whole attitude of the American people toward the oil giant after that.  They felt Hayward and BP as a whole was lying about the effects, stonewalling and too proud to admit they made a mistake and apologize. I feel that will good PR it could have been diffused and avoided setting up a better way to handle this disaster. 
 
Since, someone got their head on straight and has gotten BP execs out on TV, radio and print sending the right message…one of sincere apology and cooperation.  But the damage had already been done.  It was too late. 
So what can we as PR professionals, lawyers, friends, family members, coworkers and significant others learn from these two examples?  Honesty is the best policy and to NEVER be afraid or too proud to admit you were wrong.  We’re human.  It’s going to happen. 
 
I absolutely hate when I’m wrong (good thing it doesn’t happen often ;) ) but it happens.  And when it does, I am quick to apologize and make it right.  In every relationship I’ve had, be it professional or personal, the ability to do that has served me well. It think it’s the ability to let go of pride, which goes against our, or at least my, human nature. It was a hard lesson to learn for me but I’m so thankful I’ve had role models like my parents and professors to show that it is instead the strong thing to do to apologize when you’re wrong.  It shows strength, not weakness.  Not only that but many times when confronting an issue like this head on, it will diffuse a situation instead of letting it fester and become a problem.
 
What do you think? 

If You Want it, You’re Going to Have to Pry it From My Cold, Dead Fingers

16 Jun

“Every luxury must be paid for…” ~Casare Pavese 

Give me my blackberry!!!

 

Ok, so maybe the title is a little intense and I may be acting a bit like a spoiled child here but before we get into the story and you are absolutely repulsed by my tantrum…understand that a) most of this revolt was going on in my head where outside I was as cool as a cucumber and b) I did come to my senses. 

Since making the decision to leave my job as a book publicist where I was making money to go to law school where I would accumulate debt for the first time, I have been faced with many decisions where I must put the luxuries I’m used to behind.  It’s not huge earth shattering things but these are things I have gotten used to and giving them up makes me feel like I am moving backwards.  I know, I know, it’s not true but I’m just being honest when I say that although in my heart of hearts and in the corners on my mind, I know I’m moving in the right direction, sometimes it all seems overwhelming and I pause hoping I made the right decision.  

When I quit my job to go back to school, I knew I’d have to give up my fancy laptop, brand new blackberry and any disposable income I might have and buckle down.  Time to go back to living like a college student, eat Ramon noodles and drink cheap beer.  I just didn’t realize how much I had gotten used to these simple luxuries.  

My beloved B

 

The phone was my first order of business.  I had a company blackberry with an unlimited plan.  I figured I’d just switch the name and keep it.  I love being able to check my emails, send tweets, update facebook and feed my social media addiction whenever I want to.  Well…turns out it would cost around $130 a month.  That’s more than my family pays for 5 lines. After doing some research, I just felt like I couldn’t justify paying twice as much for my blackberry when I should really be saving money.  

The red-headed step child

 

So…last night, on that cold dark dreary night I turned in my smartphone.  I went in, told them the plan I wanted, the phone I would need and gave them the blackberry to switch my contacts.  The guy commented on how easy I was making it for him.  I just knew I had to rip off the band-aid.  If he asked me if I wanted to new blackberry or smartphone I was afraid my resolve would weaken.  He switched my contacts and my number and said it was just a matter of time.  

“How much time do we have,” I asked as I looked down at my faithful blackberry. 

“Well,” he said, “You could have up to 24 hours but as things start switching, the blackberry will do less and less.  You may have less than three.” 

A death sentence.  

The death of the blackberry.  

I whispered my goodbye and tucked it into its box hoping to make its last hours as painless as possible.  

Today “eric” came to work with me today but by the way he’s hiding in my purse, I think he knows he’s not wanted ;)  

I’ll miss B.  But there is a time for everything right?  Do I really need a blackberry in school?  No.  I will have plenty of time after I graduate for that.  

Age old problem...PC or Mac

 

Now I’m facing the same thing with #2 on my list…my computer.  I had a snazzy macbook pro and fell in love.  My trusty HP from my undergrad days is on its last leg (when did I all the sudden become a technology morgue??) and it’s time for a new one.  I want a mac. Consumer Reports isn’t helping by telling me it’s the best thing out there.  But the sticker price is making me think this one out.  I know it’s the age-old question…mac or pc but I’d love your opinion.  All of you are working professionals who also reign in the blogosphere.  Should I go cheaper and break down to get a pc?  Or is this worth the extra money? 

Like I said in the beginning…I know I sound like a spoiled brat.  When it comes down to it though, I’m happy to give up these things if in the long run I can save some money by decreasing my bills.  I just miss it and want to make sure I’m cutting the right corners.  

What do you think?  Do you give up some luxuries now to save in the long run?  Is so, which ones? 

Is there a luxury you would absolutely not give up?

Three Things I Value Most

9 Jun

When I was asked to write this, I was a bit overwhelmed because as I started reflecting on my life, I realized that I graduated high school seven years ago.  And I was even more overwhelmed when I realized that, in the perspective of a (hopefully!) full life, seven years really isn’t that long. Nevertheless, I’ve adopted a few simple philosophies that have helped me get through life. 

- Trust your instincts: Your instincts are there for a reason. So LISTEN TO YOURSELF!!! Recognize that feeling in your gut when something is off. Or let your instincts lead you to the right decision in an extremely difficult situation. It’s not always easy to trust them, and I’ve always found that, for some reason, the voice in your head called “logic” will try to hush those instincts. Logic will talk you into playing it safe and may rob you of opportunities. If I had listened to myself saying I lacked experience required to tackle the leadership positions I held in college, I would have lost the chance to positively impact myself and others, and I’d be a very different person right now. I’m not suggesting you dismiss your brain altogether. Just consider going with your instincts first, then incorporate logic second. “But what if my instincts are wrong?” Well, they will be sometimes, but you must possess the belief in yourself to allow those instincts to shine through and the confidence to act upon them. Which leads me to point #2…
 
- Live confidently: We all know someone that lives life with confidence. Can you picture him or her? In the most trying situations they can be calm, cool and collected. And their presence is powerful, yet not overbearing. They’re unwavering in their principles and their actions are consistent in every situation. People respect a person who lives with confidence. And you should strive to reflect a similar demeanor. Keep in mind: The difference between confidence and arrogance is a subtle, but important, one.  No one likes a person who is pompous and can’t admit when they’re wrong. So, live confidently but sprinkle in a dash of humility. You will be surprised how far that will take you.
 
- Always, always, ALWAYS have fun: This is, by far, the most important thing to remember in life. The moment you stop having fun is the moment you stop living. Seriously. Even some of the most mundane, unimpressive, boring and strenuous tasks can take a 180 degree turn just because you look at them through a “fun lens.” Washing dishes can turn into an epic water fight. Or facing 50 shots per game as an ice hockey goalie on a team that had a 1-26 season record (yes, that was me….) can be seen as a “getting your money’s worth” rather than “getting your butt kicked.” People who live life without having look as miserable as they feel. I don’t want that to be me, and I don’t want that to be you. 

This may be an oversimplified version of how I live my life, but these are three of the things I value the most and anytime anyone sees me, I should be an example of each of them. If I’m not, feel free to send me back to this post to knock a little sense into me because no matter how much we think we know, everyone needs a little reminder sometimes. 

*** 

Who would've thought

Ben graduated high school from Texas and now works in Nashville with a fantastic public relations firm. 

Ben Palos is a fun-filled, confident Nashvillian (by way of the great state of Texas) that lets logic get in his way more than he likes to admit. He loves to eat and drink great food and great wine, and he often finds himself looking like a zebra on an ice rink (refereeing hockey games, for those of you who need the hint). 

Ben is also the co-founder of www.alphabedible.com 

My turn?  OK. 

Ben has been a great friend to me and although we haven’t been able to talk or hang out in a while (totally my fault and I am now remedying the situation because I missed him so dang much) I knew I wanted to ask him to be a part of this series.  

We went to college together and more nights than not you could find him over at N2…either that or we were over at his house when he would grill out and make killer margaritas.  Along with being co-founder of Alphabedible, he is also a founding member of Wine Wednesdays.  Basically when we’d all pull the couch and chairs out on the porch and relax, talk and drink wine with friends.  That’s when our taste wasn’t that refined yet so normally the wine would come by way of box.  

Ben was a great leader and fantastic friend in college and I love that I can watch that play out in his success in his professional life.  No matter what, Ben is always there to step up to the plate, be it with work, friends, anything.  He lives boldly and makes everyone around him smile.  And he throws one heck of a Cinco de Mayo party ;)  

About this series: This is one of  a series of guest posts in May that will run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Find Your Adventure

4 Jun

I recently finished a project at work where I interviewed a handful of human resource professionals and hiring managers about the recession’s impact on young adults.

For almost two years the economy has paralyzed recent graduates. Many have been forced to rethink their futures and alter their expectations. Some have found new interests; others won’t give up their dreams. Almost all are following an unexpected path down an uncertain road. Seeing this fallout, experts considered what they might tell teens preparing to enter college.

Their advice: Get a degree of value.
My advice: Follow your passion.

Don’t get me wrong; their advice makes sense. In a time of devastating unemployment, when so many college graduates are without jobs, an accounting or nursing degree appears more likely to lead to a stable job than a degree in history or sociology.

 That said, I can’t overlook my own experiences.

Yes, I graduated in a better economic time. But I don’t think it was the soaring Dow or the booming real estate business that landed me my dream job. I think it was my genuine enthusiasm for the degree I chose to pursue and the profession that I hoped to become a part of – journalism.

For as long as I can remember passion is what my parents preached. Both are professionals with advanced degrees (one is a biomedical engineer with a master’s, the other is a physical therapist with a PhD).

Still, as I prepared to head off for college and tried to decide on a major, my parents didn’t focus on a future of touting intellect or chasing wealth. Their consistent message was to pursue something I loved. If I loved what I did, they said, there would never be any question of my success. My passion would propel me to learn, and grow, and excel.

At the time, only some of their message resonated; part of me just heard another in a litany of parental lectures. But if I had one passion it was writing, and with my parents’ support I chose to pursue the creative, low paying, some may say now-dying profession of journalism.

It was the right choice.

People fascinate me. Everyone has a story to tell and uncovering the intricacies of their lives is like opening a new book every day. Journalism offered me the opportunity to use my words to share those people’s experiences with others, while perhaps also offering some insight, education or entertainment.

My enthusiasm for that opportunity came through in my studies, my internship performance, and my job interviews. There is no doubt in my mind that passion is what secured the job offer I received almost eight years ago at The Tennessean.

Now, I work with words for a living. I paint images with nouns and verbs. I impart smells and sounds through similes and metaphors. I capture facts and feelings and put them on paper. And I LOVE it.

It is rare that I wake up on a Monday morning not looking forward to the work week. Every day is a new adventure. So I say to you, find your adventure. Embrace your passion.

 – JESSICA BLISS

***

 

Last summer when JBliss and I did the Muddy Buddy. This is the Before.

JBliss went to Greendale High School in Greendale, Wisconsin (a southern suburb of Milwaukee).  Past that, J didn’t send me a bio which means I get to write hers. 

A former sports writer for The Tennessean, J now finds herself in the lifestyle section.  Let me just say this, as a journalism major myself, I was drawn to J and her writing style.  So much so that I decided to get a subscription to The Tennessean.  I always wanted to be one of those people who woke up in the morning, started the coffee and headed out to get the paper at the end of the walk.  I have so enjoyed reading J’s stories.  She knows a good story. She knows how to connect with people to bring it out.  To read some of her amazing writing, start here. 

And the After...

Beyond just writing, J loves everything outdoor and constantly gives back.  I met J through Girls on the Run Nashville a fantastic organization made up of an inspring group of people.  J heads up the thing and I have never seen such drive and passion.  She walks the talk and as someone who’s parents also preached passion, it’s invigorating to see that following yours actually works! J excells at everything she loves, running, friendships, writing and volunteering.  She is a great friend of mine, makes me laugh and someone I deeply respect and admire.  She was one of the first people I told about law school and has been one of my greatest supporters since.  Everytime I get nervous she is there cheering me on reminding me to follow my passion. 

There is also a  Baby Bliss on the way which I couldn’t be happier about! She is going to be such a great mother.  I’ve lost my morning running buddy for now but I know we will be running together soon with the stroller in tow when I come back into town. 

About this series: This is one of  a series of guest posts in May that will run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

← Older Entries

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.