Challenge: Writing

In grade school I always made good grades when it came to writing, and for the most part in college too. Although, I did leave Dr. H & Dr. A's classes in tears on occasion. 

But I don't think that I ever truly pushed myself to be a better writer, and I quickly took on the mindset that I wasn't a good one. However, I was smart enough to ask for help, and thanks to a book my boss gave me, I now realize that "great" writing has far more to do with the process than it does with the words you put on the paper. Don't get me wrong, that is still VERY important.

Everybody Writes by Ann Handley can give even the most apprehensive writer the confidence to tackle any assignment.

There are two things from this book that truly changed my perception and my writing.

1. The Ugly First Draft

• I have a confession, unless required by school, I (used to) never write a first draft. *GASP* I'm probably the minority when it comes to this, but it's true. As a teacher's kid. I could spell and use proper grammar, before I probably needed to, and I would develop that information as I went and then review one time and wash my hands of it. In Everybody Writes, Handley encourages you to go against this conventional style and

2. The Writing GPS

• I won't give everything away, because that's Handley's job, but I will say that this section of the book helped me to see what my writing was missing. I was having a hard time seeing the holes in my content, and it was like a light bulb went off after reading this chapter. 

If you want to be a better writer, or if you're just feeling uninspired about it, I encourage you to delve into this book. I promise your writing won't be the same and your content and your audience will be better for it. 

Write on,

M

24 Things Learned in 24 Years

I turned 24 on Sunday. This means I am much closer to 30. I have experienced a lot more than I thought I would in 24 short years, so I thought I'd expound my wisdom on those who care to read this... all two of you! (probably true)

1. Pursue Your Dreams

2. Dreams Will Change

3. Work Hard Every Day

4. Treat Yourself

5. Parents aren't Superheros

6. A House is Just a House

7. Memories Go With You

8. It's Okay to Cry in the Work Bathroom. 

9. Go to Class, Even When it Sucks.

10. If you Bomb a Class, You Will (probably) Still Graduate. 

11. Friendships Change.

12. Losing Pets is Hard. 

13. Losing People is Harder (sometimes). 

14. True Love Happens

15. God Laughs at Plans

16. You Will Survive whichever Road You Take in Life

17. Apples & Peanut Butter Really Do Put You in a Better Mood

18. Your Skin will Pay for Your Poor Food Choices. 

19. Friends Will Be Your Life Blood. 

20. Life Won't Ever End Up the Way You Think.

21. It's Okay to Quit Your Job.

22. Faith Will Bring You Through.

23. You Can Have Your Dream Job Before 25. 

24. There is ALWAYS a Sunrise & a Sunset.

xoxo,

M

The Great Purse Debate

I like big purses and I cannot lie.

I like them to have the capacity to hold my planner, my wallet, my laptop and all my other essentials in one handy place.

I currently have, and am still obsessed with, my Michael Kors Jetsetter exclusive from the Apple Store in fuchsia. I got it for college graduation from my fantastic aunt & uncle. But now, I think it is time that I have another option, because we all know a girl has got to have those.

I'm currently obsessing over these bags, if I will commit to one or not is still TBD:

Dagne Dover - The Tote

Kate Spade Cedar Street Medium Harmony

Tory Burch Tote - Marion Printed Nylon

Camden Michael Kors Large Leather Satchel

What's your go to bag that works for all aspects of your life?

Work it girl,

M

Farewell to 2014, Hello to 2015

As I reflect back on 2014, I can’t help but be overwhelmed by all the amazing things that occurred not only for me, but for my family and friends.

I think innately as humans we have a tendency to focus on the negative in the day to day moments, holding ourselves to a higher standard than our peers would, and many times falling short of those expectations we have for ourselves and others.

But when we look back on the big picture, on a “year in review”, it is amazing how we see mostly good moments and memories.

Unfortunately, we cannot predict what the next day, week, month or year will bring us, and (as a closet pessimist myself) it’s easy to brace yourself for the next bad thing, but there is so much good even in the tough times.

My resolution is simple for 2015:

Be the good. See the good.

(and maybe try to blog every day too)

I challenge you to make one resolution (instead of that long list of unattainables) one that will change your heart and those you care about most.

I wish you joy, peace and unwavering love in the New Year.

Cheers from the beach,

M