Whitney Lately Vol. 2

Admiring lately:IMG_8663

Lower Manhattan

This is from a recent Uber ride from Brooklyn to MSG to eat gluten free pizza and have have macaroons from the bus station. This view will be a part of my daily life.  It’s always been in me.

Crushing lately:

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Tone It Up Bikini Series 

“Crushing” might be a little strong but I’m officially on the last day of the TIU Bikini Series.  I gotta say, it’s 8 weeks, but those weeks really did fly by.  There’s an app that has free daily moves every day.  Each day is dedicated to a certain body part you’re working.  You swipe through the moves and then the last screen is this one.  A little encouragement is always welcome.

Seriously check it out.  I’m a TIU girl now for the long run.

Sipping lately:

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Knoebel’s Cookie Nook

All the iced coffee  

I’m loving my coffee cold even more so than usual.  It just tastes sooo good to me this time of year.  Who am I kidding?  It tastes good any time of the year but in winter my hands start to freeze if I don’t get hot drinks.  But then again, that’s what I have gloves for.

Researching lately:

photo cred 

Summer Events

On July 18 I am going to an event for the Almost 30 podcast  in NYC and I cannot wait.  I took the day off  and the next day just because I’ll get back late on a “school night.”  Even though the event only starts at 6:30 pm, I’m planning on taking some time in the city before it starts.  Right now, my schedule is wide open.  I’m a planner but I’m working on being more flexible with my schedule.  It’s actually way tougher than I thought it would be when I started to work on this trait a few months ago.  I actually feel stress when I have something “fun” planned but I don’t have an entire, completed, highly-detailed itinerary in my possession.  Anyway…I am slowly getting there and am allowing myself to enjoy some true free time.  So, for this day trip I had to at least have some things in mind.  As we speak I have a few options:

  • Catch a matinee show on Broadway (This most def. revolves around finding a good price.)
    • Currently cruising this site right here for tips and tricks – Last Minute Broadway Tickets
    • I’m dying to see Anastasia and Dear Evan Hansen (amazing music that I only know because of my Greatest Showman Pandora station)
  • Find a new cafe and people watch while I enjoy a great coffee and pastry
  • Eat at a top chef restaurant for lunch and take my time enjoying the meal
  • FINAAAALLLY go to a Soul Cycle class
    • I so want to do this eventually but my main reason for most likely striking this one from the docket is that I won’t look super cute for the Almost 30 shindig a few hours later
  • Possibly find a semi-affordable hotel for the night so I can leisurely enjoy myself without rushing home at 9pm

Watching Lately:

Imposters TV show on Bravo: ratings (cancel or season 2?)
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Imposters

This was just recommended to me by a friend and I’m hooked.  A Bravo show that follows a team of con artists and the jilted marks who are trying to catch them.  I”m currently catching up on the first season on Netflix and will probably finish it in a few days.

Tonight I’m heading to see Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and can’t wait.  I haven’t looked at a single review because I want to just go enjoy Chris Pratt, Jeff Goldblum, and some Velociraptors.

 

To Resolve or Not to Resolve

I am all about making resolutions. They keep me on track with what I really want to be doing for the year. It’s actually a comfort thinking about them throughout the months so I don’t end up in October wondering how I got there with nothing to show for it.  It’s easy to slide along every day not working toward anything because you don’t want to put even the tiniest amount of pressure on yourself.

There was a revolt a few years ago that is still continuing.  People seem to think making resolutions is a bad thing because you get disappointed when you fail.  But, I’m sorry, does that mean we should stop trying?  Does that mean we shouldn’t even attempt a turn-around? I see nothing wrong with jotting some things down that you know you want to change.  Sure, if there are things you resolve to quit or start because you think you should do them, well now, that’s when you get into guilt-laden territory.

It’s completely possible to have goals you love all year long and not get discouraged. There are small tweaks I’ve done every time I actually committed to completing a resolution.

My tips for happy goals:

  • Pair a larger goal with a “fun” goal.
  • Make it positive! Add in a healthy habit, instead of kicking a bad one.
    • i.e. Don’t quit sugar cold turkey.  Commit to eating one serving of vegetables with two meals/day.
  • Pick one generic, attainable goal.  This will make you feel great when you can cross it off your list! Plus, it will give you confidence in your greater goals.
    • I.e. Drink 8 glasses of water daily.
  • Choose one daunting goal.  Write out tiny steps that edge you closer.
    • I.e. Pay off credit card debt = Sell one item on eBay/week>Use an extra $50/month towards debt>Pay more than minimum payment/month, etc.
Best New Year Motivational & Inspirational Quotes Collection
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I’m including some revamped printable resolution worksheets I found around.  They aren’t your run-of-the-mill goal sheets.  I love tradition but I also love seeing things from a new perspective or slightly tweaking the original picture.  Kind of like when top chefs do a spin on a classic dish.  I love that.  Sooo, here are a few different ways to write down a few resolutions. (A few sources might ask for your email to get the PDFs sent to you.) Or check out Pinterest for your own ideas!

2018 I Purpose to. via source.

The Ultimate List of 2018 New Year Resolution Ideas

More of This/Less of This worksheet

Family New Year’s Resolutions

Two pics from the holiday weekend to close!

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I am not yet finished making my list.  I’ve had a very low-key New Year’s Eve for the last few years completely by choice.  It’s when I have a drink, sit down, and write from my heart.  I’m able to hear clearly what I’m supposed to be doing.

I would absolutely love to hear your resolutions and goals for 2018!

January 1 or not, remember, you always have a chance to start over.

~Whitney Victoria

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On Tour

Good morning!

It was quite the busy weekend.  My mom and I finished up the Best Kept Secrets Tour on Saturday.  In that pouring, cold, rain.  Lots of puddles and umbrellas and soggy shopping bags.  It made it more adventurous!

So.  The Tour.  My mom first heard about it maybe 2 years ago from a friend.  It’s a lot of word-of-mouth news about this!  Which, to me, makes it even more fun. Stores and small businesses in one county (we did Berks) all are included as a tour stop.  You purchase a tour bag from certain shops.  They are all marked with signs.  The bags are filled with a tour booklet and some kind of flyer/business card/trinket from every store.  I think it’s exciting even just searching through my bag when I get it!  There’s usually free samples, pens, and tons of coupons.  The Tour book is pretty informative.  You know the dates of the tour – this is when the shops cater to us on the tour-and all the shop hours.  There is a map and distance of each stop to the next stop.  Even suggested routes are included.

We usually make a day of it two or three times throughout the tour because it’s much easier to start at one store in the morning and keep driving around and hit a bunch at one time.  We’ve run into super friendly workers and always get treats and things for visiting their stores.  Almost every stop has special discounts for “tour goers” through the dates.  It is run twice a year but this is my favorite because all these unique little shops have coupons so it’s even more affordable for Christmas gifts!

I guess I should mention that the entire point is get shoppers in to small businesses that most people don’t realize are right in their backyard.  We’ve discovered so many places through this and most are spots we’ve driven by for years!  I stole this from the website to explain all the types on the tour because they say it best!

“home, garden & gift stores housed in historic homes, restored barns, warehouses and even a hardware store, an alpaca farm where you can interact with the animals, art & artisan galleries, tucked away nurseries & garden centers, a pretzel bakery, gourmet foods & sweet shops with yummy treats for sampling, clothing, jewelry & accessories boutiques, amazing handmade crafts, a local favorite restaurant & a brand new cafe, furniture, antiques, vintage, upcycled & consignment shops, a gorgeous winery on an historic site, a few specialty shops and more!!”

It’s just a fun time driving around (but not that far) and feeling like we’re on a scavenger hunt.

I forgot to mention the best part!  Each place you go to has a ticket for you to fill out that gets entered in a drawing for a present or gift card.  I won the West Reading prize last year and won $600 worth of gift certificates!  My mom also won a jewelry prize! We’re lucky.  I’m sure our prizes are in the works already.

I bought this plaid wool hat I”m wearing from Killarney, Ireland from my favorite new shop we found, Evelyn and Harriets!  They have items from all over the world and only sell things that are unique and not found many other places.  Ornaments from Egypt, hand-made greetings cards from Germany, children’s toys that do not have any kind of electronics or batteries!  It’s very cool.

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While we were hitting some stores this week we stopped for seafood.  I had delicious sushi…that I ate with a knife and fork because I didn’t feel like dropping 10x the amount of rice on my lap than I did already!  It was great.  There was an amazing drizzle on top that I can’t remember!img_6404.jpgThis.  This is why I brave the crowds and go to Wal-Mart occasionally.  $3 turkey hair clips are a must-buy.  img_6402.jpgAnd…tiny bragging but the official Hello Dolly Broadway instagram used my picture!  I was pretty excited about that.  I’m famous! hah!fullsizeoutput_1ff1I went thrift shopping for the first time in months and hit a pocket of excellence.  Including the above pictured Free People dress.  My haul also includes a sequin skirt, and a fabulous vintage sweater that I’m sure one of the Golden Girls wore.  (Newsflash: That means I love it.)img_6475.jpg

I was sent some coffee shots to try and they really are decent.  I can’t believe their natural energy drinks!  That never happens. I’m not a big energy drink gal but this was fun to drink. I could see adding it to a cup of coffee…wait, does that defeat the purpose? IMG_6477

 Have a wonderful, peaceful but joyful holiday week!  I’ll be prepping my pecan pies, muffins, and this Black Friday plans.

Anyone else heading out on Friday?  I can’t wait!

~Whitney Victoria

cold weather, cozy weather

Hats, scarves,gloves!  Tights, boots, real coats.  I wore it all this week.  I think even if you hate the cold, there is plenty to look forward to once the nip gets in the air.

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I actually went to the mall the other day, mostly to see the Christmas decorations, under the guise of searching for black riding boots.   People might seem more bustling during the holidays but I think it’s a time to slow down.  When the weather turns cold, it’s a sign we should cozy up under blankets, wear thick sweaters, don your long-johns!  It’s my favorite thing in the morning to blast my car heater on the way to work.

I think it’s in my DNA as a winter baby to love it but this is when I feel the most hopeful, like magic can happen.  Christmas miracles and all that.

There’s so much to look forward to!  The best gifts are out starting now-December 24th.   I get sooo excited seeing it all out in stores.  (Online shopping is not fun to me!) Shopping this time of year has a philanthropic feel to me.  I’m getting presents and decorations to share with everyone I love! Like this insanely cute Corgi sweater leggings.

img_6338.jpgAnd I’m convinced I need to buy the two bags of Starbucks coffee just to get this tiny tote bag for myself for free!  I’m obsessed with that quote.  It’s me. img_6347.jpgI saw the bags while getting my first Cranberry Bliss Bar.  I NEED to find a healthy homemade recipe this season.  They’re so good but not really worth the sugar too often for me.  Once in a while is just perfect!img_6330.jpg

This weekend was our big push for the Best Kept Secrets Tour.  I’ll expand on that later.  It’s so fun!

Christmas candy abound at Reppert’s.  I had so many free samples at 10am Saturday that I will legit admit my breakfast was pure chocolate.

The best way to describe me and free samples is this:

My mom picked up raspberry jellies, vanilla caramels, and peanut butter chocolates for Thanksgiving and we’re both anxious to eat them! If anyone wants holiday candy, check it out!  They even had Nittany Lion and cornucopia shaped chocolates.  Surprisingly, I walked away with just a bag of root beer barrels!  They’re delicious and remind me of picking hard candy out of a basket at my grandparents’.IMG_6378I’m an old cat lady, except even sadder because I don’t have a cat at the moment.  Hah!  I loved this sign so much.  I’ll just skip the nap bit.IMG_6353

This is a selfish bonus screenshot for you!  Ina Garten posting about Taylor.  <3 Made my day being reminded how much these two love each other.fullsizeoutput_1fd8.jpeg

I’m making these!  No Bake Peppermint Bark Cookies. How have I missed this recipe previous years??  They’re like 5 minutes.f

No-Bake Peppermint Bark Cookies | The Suburban Soapbox

You guys can have your pumpkin stuff! “Peppermint Everything” is my motto this time of year.   Anyone have favorite seasonal things they love seeing?

Feel the holiday cheer.  It’s out there if you take notice.

~Whitney Victoria

Reputations

I’m entirely excited and in major anticipation for Reputation.  I have had “Call It What You Want” on repeat for the last week.  One. More. Day. People.  I may have all the songs pre-released already memorized.  I’m planning my concert outfit.  I’m buying a sweatshirt like Taylor’s on the cover. No shame whatsoever.

I realized I never showcased the beautiful architecture in Connecticut, mostly on the Yale campus, so here goes.

This is the The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion  that we just stopped by to check out.  It was closed the only day we could see it but the exterior was so cool to see from the walking trails around it.  It was built in 1864 and has been used for several movie scenes.  Just walking the grounds around it felt eerie to me.  There was definitely some kind of strange presence. IMG_5624IMG_5622IMG_5619

After that, we heading to New Haven to see the Yale campus.  It was better than I imagined.  I expected like 2 buildings to have some cool windows or whatever.  Old Campus was made up almost entirely of Victorian Gothic structures.  So beautiful.

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Sorry I’m wearing the same outfit in every pic.  There was no time or place for a wardrobe change.

You can’t get the whole feel of the campus by the odd angles and view we took.  All in an attempt to capture the enormousness and detail of the buildings.

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Every door was immense and intimidating.  I loved how the student id scanners were placed on the crazy old gates.  Some buildings were built in 1750!

Yes, there was tons of ivy at the ivy league.  This picture doesn’t do it justice.  Some halls had it growing up the entire side of the building and down on the ground floor.

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There was a great street with shops and little restaurants so we had to hit the college bookstore.

IMG_5659IMG_5774IMG_5896I had just grabbed ice cream when we decided it was necessary for one last souvenir.  I bought a mug…it makes me feel super collegiate while drinking my coffee.IMG_5703IMG_5705On the way home we found some cute shops in New Canaan as well.  The fox is my spirit animal.  I had to pose.img_5845.jpg

This was the best!  My own personal store had unique little gifts and table decor.

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Look at the sister store that was next door!

IMG_5926Our night ended in Westport at the prettiest Anthropologie I’ve ever laid eyes on.IMG_5831IMG_5780img_5711.jpgimg_5713.jpg

Anyone else buying Taylor’s album?  You know you want to.

“T” minus 1 day.

~Whitney Victoria

Windy Nights are Alright

I started writing this Sunday evening.  It was rainy and windy and a little bit chilly and I loved it.  After getting home around noon, I promptly decided it was time I get into sweats and lounge for the rest of the day.  Those days really are the best after a busy week.

Boy, was that sofa inviting.  I haven’t watched movies regularly for awhile since I became an annoying Netflix/Hulu follower.  For some reason it’s been easier to binge-watch I’m old school.  I’d still have a VCR and commercials to speed through if I had my choice so watching real movies, start to finish, was really appealing to me today. It started with Skyfall and ended with Creed (a sequel comes out next year!).  Actions movies do it for me quite often.  I totally forgot but there’s a scene in Creed where they are watching a movie and it’s Skyfall!  What are the odds?  Do you think I subconsciously remembered this and that’s why I wanted to watch Creed right after?  Whatever.

I have such an addiction to sports movies, underdog stories, and I may have cried while watching this one tonight.  Yeah, yeah, I’m not saying it’s the greatest cinematic film ever but I love a good fight, metaphorically and physically.  I love seeing a character never back down or give up when it matters.  Total endless motivation for me.

Halloween is upon us.  I dressed up once and I’m done.  it was great but I’m more excited for November.  Some years I relish every moment in costume but this was a tad lackluster.

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My gumball machine costume was super easy!  I had a red dress I didn’t love anymore.  All I bought was a bag of pom-poms for $3.99.  They were hot-glued to the top section.  Then I glued a piece of foil to cardboard and drew on the look of the machine’s mechanism. (Yes, big technical word.)  I totally saw the idea on Pinterest and loved it like 2 months ago.  Unique, bright colors and I still get to look cute?  I’m in.

This past weekend I went to Folino Estate Winery with two friends and, I’m speaking for all of us, but we had a blast.  None of us were ever there an didn’t’ know what to expect.  It’s up out of the way.  There is a restaurant, tasting room, shop, patio, and a perfect spot for weddings.  They had a candy and wine pairing event going on for Halloween and if you dressed up in costume and posted a picture, you could win a $100 gift card.  No word yet on the winner but it was fun regardless!

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This was the wine tasting and shop area!

 

The estate was really beautiful and up on a hill.  We ate lunch first and everything was excellent.  I’d like to go back anytime!  There was bread and olive oil with herbs on the table. to start.  The bread was light and fluffy and had olives strewn about!  I continued the carbo-loading and had a flat bread mushroom pizza.  Also, great.

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This was the personal size pizza!  See that herbed EVOO photobomb?  Mmm.

I do not claim to know much of anything about wine so excuse my slight ignorance.  I’ve done a few short wine tastings before but the woman who did this one seemed the most knowledgeable.  They had special glasses that had thumb indents and one on the bottom for your middle finger.  I never saw these before but I loved them!  It’s so you can swirl the wine around easily and look incredibly fancy.  I totally felt like I knew what i was doing all of a sudden, just holding that fun glass. IMG_6143

The wine started with whites paired with candy corn and then skittles.  I’m not a fan of either candy but somehow they tasted better with the wine!  We had to take 3-4 sips of wine, then a bite of candy, then a sip of wine again.  I was impressed with how well they actually brought out different flavors of both the candy and the wine.  IMG_6131

I do know that I tend toward red wines.  I’m not a huge sweet person.  When it comes to dessert I usually pick coffee, or dark chocolate flavors.  Reds seem rich, deep, and complex to me.  Just how I like my men.  (Am I kidding…?)

We each bought a glass then to enjoy on their patio and it was so windy I flashed everyone.  Hello!  I was carrying a glass of wine, my purse, and had no extra hands to hold down my skirt.  My hope is that everyone sitting out there was too into their drinks to have noticed.  Oh well!  At least I was wearing tights.

img_61352.jpgFor November Folino is doing a wine and pie pairing event!  Now that’s my kind of party.  Any takers??

Enjoy your Halloween!  May it be safe and full of Reese’s pumpkins!

~Whitney Victoria

 

 

 

Meal With a View

Continuing my recap of Connecticut, I thought I’d focus on some amazing food we experienced. The first night we were there, we were craving lobster rolls.  I googled it so see who was serving them in close proximity to our hotel since I wasn’t up for a long car ride after the drive up there.  I found Sunset Grille.  It was about 6 miles from where we were staying and they had a waterfront view!  We lucked out and it was literally the last day of the season that the restaurant was open!  It was nothing special as far as decor goes, but the ambiance was there with the yachts, sea breeze, and delicious food.

IMG_5756IMG_5746IMG_5814IMG_5762IMG_5731They had two kinds of lobster rolls. One was warm with butter, and the other was cold with mayo and herbs. Both were amazing.  We got one of each and then split them!  I couldn’t decide my favorite.  The french fries were also seriously great.  I didn’t leave one on the plate.img_5852.jpg

Up close and personal. IMG_5832IMG_5751IMG_5817IMG_5878We found a beach down the road that was free to walk on since it was October.  It was so windy but really fun to just walk around and look out at the water. IMG_5805IMG_5904The next day was New Haven. The little shop was called Maison Mathis and had a great vibe.IMG_5972 This was an impromptu stop for coffee and I got a wonderful brown butter chocolate chip cookie. I wish I took a picture to commemorate it and would like to make my own batch.  img_5942.jpgI’m a tad OCD about researching things so I did my homework and knew about most of the cafes within 5 miles of the Yale campus. We hit Claire’s Corner Copia for a late lunch.  Isn’t that such a cute name?  They specialize in vegan and gluten-free food and have been open since 1975! I had some Asian noodles and veggies.  It was so filling and satisfying after a day of walking around the city.  But, it also tasted light and healthy.  After not having real homemade bread for, basically years, this little loaf was breathtaking.  I was obsessed with it, ate every crumb, and want some more.  I had some unsweetened blueberry iced tea that was little tart.  I actually added stevia and I hardly ever need to do that.  IMG_6046IMG_6047Our third day was for traveling home.  I found a cute, organic spot for brunch called Baldanza in New Canaan.  I have to say, my brioche french toast was probably the best french toast I’ve ever had.  Uncured bacon and fair-trade coffee were musts.  I loved the diverse but clean choices there.  Next time I’m in town, I’ll be back. IMG_6002IMG_5815img_5726.jpg

My mom had the gluten-free egg sandwich and also said it was the best ever!  Mmmmm.IMG_5924

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I think my biggest smiles are when I’m posing with food.  I’m not ashamed one bit.

~Whitney Victoria

Tuesday Tidbits

Tuesdays aren’t exactly known for being thrilling.  I’m going to share some of my favorite  things, interesting facts, funny moments, whatever I feel like telling you.

  • Sending summer off with a trip to Hershey Park.  It’s like Disney World for chocolate.  We just take it for granted since it’s so close.  I LOVE roller coasters, heights, upside down rides, whatever.  But, there was one ride that was not fun. I actually think I may have gotten whiplash.  Maybe I’m just getting too old.

IMG_4636Here’s me, posing with the chocolate trifecta. What’s your favorite Hershey’s product?  I’m a sucker for Reese’s pb cups (in the freezer!)    They remind me of going to the snack bar at the pool when I was little.  Mmmm….

IMG_4635Can’t decide if Mrs. Hershey’s Kiss really needs lips like Kylie…

IMG_4640The classic.  I really only like plain Hershey’s chocolate when I’m eating s’mores.

  • Musicals. They make me happy and wistful.  I’m watching Hello Dolly! in preparation for this weekend.  I’m going to see Bette Midler on Broadway.  I can’t believe I’ve never seen a show! This is one of my favorites so I’m glad it’s the first.

Look at that costume!  Can I wear it?  Hello Whitney!

  • Planning trips.  Even even it’s just a day trip, it’s one of my great thrills in life. For NYC this weekend, I’m in charge…or more like I’ve just taken it upon myself to have a mini intinerary.  I’ve narrowed down the brunch choices and am planning some great photo ops.  IMG_4988
  • Chick-fil-A Cookies.  Somehow I’ve never tried them until yesterday and they really are delightful.  I found this recipe on Pinterest and I’m pretty good at substituting ingredients so I’m going to attempt a healthy version!
  • Brisk weather. This past weekend was actually nippy.  Watching my nephew’s first ever soccer game was fun, bundled up as a spectator!  I’m totally looking forward to more this fall.  IMG_4854I just feel like myself in the cold, with leather gloves and a beanie!
  • New York Fashion Week. And, seeing the celebs in the front row. I’m going there one of these days and am attending shows.  I’m obsessed every season and try to watch livetreams of the runways as much as possible.

vanessa-hudgens-austin-butler-jeremy-scott-show-13I die for Austin and Vanessa.  If I said things like this, I’d say #couplegoals … And Ashley Benson is cute too. (source)

  • Dr. Bronner’s lip balm.  I can’t go back to Burt’s Bees after using this.  It’s wonderful, organic, and actually moisturizes to give me super soft lips.  Peppermint’s my favorite.  I like to feel a tingle.

Image result for dr. bronner's lip

(source)
  • And this:

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Have a wonderful week in mid-September!

Enjoy each day as it comes.

~Whitney Victoria

Red, Why, and Blue.

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It’s pretty much standard motivational talk these days to talk about your “why.”  In certain situations, it’s darn difficult to figure it out.  So much of our daily routine are based on things we don’t remember why we’re doing them.  You know, like how you’re on autopilot so much that you don’t remember driving to work?  There are so many of this little moments that you gloss over throughout your life and pretty soon you are in a place you don’t recognize.

It’s about living with intention when you’re aware of your purpose for going after something. By calling it a “why,” it sounds much less daunting to me.  It’s really more than that but, God, my “purpose?”  My “life’s work?” Come on, I don’t want that kind of pressure.  Who, what, where, why.  Tiny words we learn in elementary school seem easier to swallow.

When you know your “why,” you have major motivation.  It makes whatever you’re doing have an underlying boost.  I feel like it’s that little voice in the back of my mind that tells me not to give up.  It’s that voice that reminds me I’ll feel 1000% better when I get over that hill I’m hoofing up.  That voice has told me that it’s okay that I’m scared to put myself out there because I’m doing something great.  The ends justify the means.

Your “why” is basically what makes all the hard stuff, worth it.

When you know the reason you’re suffering, suddenly you can withstand more than you’ve ever realized.  This has been amazing when I’ve done physical challenges like running races but it’s another frame of mind for emotional tasks.  When I run, I’m literally crossing a finish line.  You see it in the distance after miles of effort.  Then you run under an arch with crowds of people cheering!  Of course, that “why” is easy to see.  Total fanfare.  But when it’s something I’m working on myself, it’s kind of like this , too much questioning.

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My “why” has been evasive lately.  I think it’s wearing camo and hiding in the bushes of my brain, probably doing an army crawl through the mud to get away from me. Or maybe it’s right there in the sun, wearing shades, and I just need to look around and say hey.

I have oodles of pictures from Labor Day so brace yourself for a lot of tomato red.  Me in my tennis outfit, like I just came off the court.  Hey, life is a runway. (Obviously, I just sang that to the tune of “Life is a Highway”)

fullsizeoutput_1b87I needed a seat.  Just so happened the motorized dump truck looked most appealing.

img_4531.jpgThere was some impromptu street hockey so excuse the driveway and camper in the background. I got into it…my competitive spirt came out a little.  Man, I miss field hockey but can’t bring myself to be like the 35-year-old men at the gym playing dodgeball.
IMG_4529Cloey the Corgi, in the patriotic spirit.  What a trooper.  She’s a gem.

img_4522.jpg                    Manning the grill because I think watching Food Network makes me Bobby Flay.
fullsizeoutput_1b8b Final s’mores of the season!  We had square (square!) marshmallows that apparently are specifically for s’more building.  I prefer the real cylindrical ‘mallows.  They just seem right.  Plus, I like to double roast!  You know, set it on fire and then the inner part stays on the stick and then you get to roast that part?  Sitting around a fire is pure nostalgia.  It never gets old.

I like to keep my “why” in mind when I feel dead tired and want to quit but…There comes a time when you should stop asking  why why why, and just live IRL.

~Whitney Victoria

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P.S. There’s a book called Find Your Why by Simon Sinek.  Guess what that’s about?  I haven’t read it but I’ve seen/listened to talks by Simon.  He’s a little cocky and wears glasses he thinks he can pull off, because he’s clearly smart…but I’m sure it’s a good read.

Style Revolution

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Want to change your mood?  Change your clothes!

I grew up not caring what I wore.  Then, I cared but I didn’t dress how I wanted.  It was based on what I thought I was supposed to wear.  Whatever that means.

Now my style is alllll about Whitney.

Maybe sometimes it’s little crazy, or bright, or short, or just not fit for the suburbs.  But I feel authentic.  I’m really into authenticity. In all areas of life even though that’s hard, it’s worth it.

Back to fashion and personal style.  It means sooo much to me because I used it to express myself when I didn’t feel as confident using my voice.  Even when I acted shy, I still wore my neon sweaters.

 I always had the choice to be bold or to blend in.

I have endless possibilities and can embody any emotion I want to with clothes.  It’s never about costumes for me.  I find it easy to mix it all together and keep it 2017 (at least I like to think so…) Sometimes I pretend I’m famous and wear a fedora and sunglasses to get groceries.  Or perhaps, I’m really into the ’60s that day.  Then I’ll wear some big hoops and a mini skirt!  If you know me, you probably think I’m constantly have a ’60s moment…

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I wanted to get in my white before Labor Day!

If it’s rainy, I’m drawn to brighter colors to cheer myself up!

Got a job interview or big meeting?  I’m wearing my power suit, and by power suit, I mean my leather pencil skirt and black blazer…

When the seasons change, I’m consciously planning outfits so I get in the spirit.  Speaking of which, hello Fall! Since that means burgundy, plaid, and riding boots, I’m starting early as soon as the calendar flips to September.  I did that already.  Bought myself two extra days.  August wasn’t that fun anyway.

Today: I needed to wear some Lilly in honor of the last day of the sale.  Pink pineapples seemed fitting for a summer send-off.  It’s over, right?  I’d like some snow now.

I think you know how you feel when you’re in a sick outfit you love.  Maybe it’s just a certain color you feel AMAZING in.  When you have that on, man, it’s Powerful.

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I’m sick of people acting like caring what you look like is shallow or means you’re not intelligent.  It’s about taking pride in yourself and putting your best foot forward, preferably in some sleek ankle boots.  I may look too dressed up at times but if I feel good, nothing else matters.

Isn’t that the rule of the Universe?  We’re supposed to feel good.

When I was little, Barbie and American Girl Dolls were my favorites because I could change their clothes!  Oh, Samantha’s running away with Felicity in the middle of the night?  Good thing I’ve put them in their cloaks and bonnets!  Boy, did Barbie wear her evening gowns around the house even while Ken lived in board shorts.

Who cares?  She can dress how she pleases.  And, so can I.

Got a favorite ensemble?  I know you do.