I'm Coming Home Again...

I'm traveling again this weekend, but this time I feel like I'm going right back home. Thursday evening I'll be leaving for Tucson for the University of Arizona Homecoming. I do work for the UA so part of my trip is work-related, but Saturday I get to celebrate with all my friends and sorority sisters who've "come home" to our great university.

Last year, homecoming was one of the few times during the fall semester that I was able to relax and enjoy time with my friends. School, work and my commitment to the Fiesta Bowl kept me extremely busy. This year, again, I'm really looking forward to decking out in red and blue, and enjoying the precious time with my dear friends.

Here's what last year's homecoming looked like... I'm counting down the days until Saturday!

Bear Down Friday with my old roomie!

Love my Chi Omegas! 

6 a.m. at Frog with one of my bests! 

Stopped by my work tailgate to say hello to my co-workers.

The best tailgate with the best of friends! 

HOMECOMING 2012... LET'S DO THIS! 

Mindful Monday: Strive for Progress

Hi all! I don't have much time to blog this morning, but I do have some exciting posts in the workS! You can look forward to reading about my weekend at Pure Barre instructor training in Denver and my experiences and advice for those dating a medical school student.

This week I'll....

Source: cl.ly via Shannon on Pinterest

HAPPY MONDAY, XO! 

My Thursday Agenda

Happy November.... Wait, what? Even though it seems like we're still in August, we're just two months shy of the new year! I never would have thought this year would have passed so quickly. I'm not saying I dislike that the holiday season is here, but it definitely snuck up on me.

I have a quite a bit to do before I leave for Pure Barre instructor training in Denver tomorrow. But I will say, packing for a "work out" trip is so much easier than packing for any other excursion. I will be living in Lululemon and my Uggs for the weekend - I'm definitely not complaining!

I need to be productive today, so I've made a to-do list!

- Read blogs
- Pray like crazy for Mike's huge med school exam
- Work (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
- Jesus Calling devotional
- Practice the Pure Barre warm up (I have to show it to the instructor tomorrow morning!)
- Laundry
- Shop for snacks
- Eat healthy (Someone hold me to this - we have so much leftover Halloween candy!)
- Pack for Denver
- Paint nails

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest

I'm sure my list with grow throughout the day! I hope you have a wonderful Nov. 1.

XO

Mindful Monday: Stop Starting Over

I hope you had a wonderful weekend! Mine was spent with a little bit of work, dinner with Mike at Blanco, a brief appearance at a Halloween party, a UA Wildcat win (this completely made my Saturday), seeing one of my dear friends that was in town from Chicago, shopping with my best friend, homework and Pure Barre. Notice the word "run" is missing from that last sentence. Well, as soon as I saw this Pin, I had to share it with you all. This week I'm going to be mindful of the following because it's so incredibly true...

Source: fitfabcities.com via Shannon on Pinterest

The only way for me to really get back into running is to do simply that, START RUNNING! Although I won't be able to do so tonight because of my grad class, I hope to lace up my shoes tomorrow. Not to mention, Pure Barre instructor training is this weekend. I am SO excited! This will be an intense week of fitness. HAPPY MONDAY, XO! 

"An Open Letter to Ann Coulter" - WOW!

My words cannot do this letter written to Ann Coulter by John Franklin Stephens justice. Everyone should read and reflect.

http://specialolympicsblog.wordpress.com/2012/10/23/an-open-letter-to-ann-coulter/

To me, this defines courage, intelligence and passion.

Hitting the Pavement: Day 1

Yesterday I hit the pavement! It's been just over six months since my physician told me to take an extended break from running. If you've been reading for a while, you'll remember that I was not able to compete in the Mount Lemon Half Marathon in April because of this injury, which came about from overuse.

Although I've been sick, my cough finally subsided a few days ago. I figured yesterday was the first day to lace up my shoes and give it a try, since we had an evening work event and I didn't have to be in the office until late. I was very nervous and worried that I'd make it a mile and end up walking home. Regardless, I laced up my Mizunos, started up my Garmin, readied my iPod shuffle and was off!

While it was not easy,  I was still able to keep my regular pace! Yes, I did sound like I could barely breathe, but I made it. Woohoo! And even better news, I haven't felt any pain in the side of my knee. Praise God!

As long as future runs go similiarly, I should be able to run in my fifth P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in January. I made this mental promise to myself that I'd run this race each year, until I was no longer able to run.... So cross your fingers for me! I'm not so sure Mike will be running with me this year like last year, but I love the Chang's race experience so much! Also, another instructor from Pure Barre is planning to run it, so I'm hoping we can be race buddies! If you'll remember, I am a social runner rather than a hardcore competitor.... Although I do have some edge!

I hope I'll be able to give positive running updates within the next week or so! Each time, I'm just going to have to tell myself...

Source: i-just-wannarun.tumblr.com via Shannon on Pinterest

HAPPY HUMP DAY! XO

Mindful Monday: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Before I jump into "Mindful Monday," I have to bring up something I think about frequently. Do you ever feel like you're writing the same post twice? Often, I find myself jotting down ideas on my iPhone, and then wonder if I've already written about the same theme before. Does this happen to anyone else? Sometimes I still feel called to write about the subject, like today, and disregard the fact that a similar message may be tucked away on by blog in a post a few months back...

---

Actions speak louder than words. Simple enough, right? My mom started telling me this phrase at such a young age, I feel like it has always been in my repertoire. But just as different items, words and feelings have different meanings with age, so does this important five-word sentence.

As women, many of us struggle to live a healthy lifestyle. As we are commonly compared to the models on TV and in the magazines, we try to eat less, workout more and find motivation to be thin. Am I right?

After many years of body image issues, I'm finally at a place where I feel more confident and happy with who I am. But, I personally believe making goals is positive, so I do have something that I'm working toward. Since starting Pure Barre in July, I truly feel more toned and lean, although I still have my "problem area." Unlike many of my friends, I've never had had a flat (or semi-flat) stomach. Call it my weakness for sweets, pizza and Mexican food, but that little pooch just won't go away.

Although I tell my co-workers, family and closest friends that I'm working so hard to eat healthy, I still continue to overindulge and have far too many "cheat days." Of course I believe in treating yourself every once in a while, but that word has become overused in my diet vocabulary. It's time for me to step up and really pursue my goal.

So consider this my last use of words, as inspiration to make healthy actions my norm.

This week I commit to think about food as fuel rather than a luxury, focusing on the energy it will provide me to get through each day!

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest

HAPPY MONDAY, XO!

Think About It...

Source: minimalistpretty.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Insta-Updates

As I work may way back into the blogging world, I figure there's no better way than to update you on what's been happening in my life. In a nut shell, I started graduate school, my boyfriend started medical school, I've been juggling two part-time jobs for Arizona universities and have moved into a house with my twin brothers. And I can't forget the fact that my best friend is now a married woman. In between those monumental moments there's been joy, tears, laughter and more!

So here are a few Instagram photos to show you exactly what I've been up to!

My very best friend's wedding! 

Mike's White Coat Ceremony - love my future physician! 

My life in computers: Two jobs & a personal life [sort of]!

I've been striving to live in the moment, instead of planning too far in advance!

And I'm also working to improve my decision-making skills. I'm very indecisive! 

I hope you have a beautiful Wednesday! We're half way through the work week! :) That's something to smile about! XO

Back Again!

It's been a long time since I've posted or signed into Blogger, since August 5 to be exact. I know that I won't be able to catch you up on everything that's happened since then, but I do want to get back into the swing of blogging.

There's something so wonderful about giving yourself twenty minutes a day to express exactly what's on your mind. Working two jobs (I'm adding a third) and going to school leaves me following the demands of others, rather than marching to the beat of my own drum.

I'm not going to promise myself that I'll blog every day, but I'm going to make an effort to spend more time writing and reading everyone's blogs that I love so much.

Speaking of love... Here's something I have to look forward to in 19 days! A better explanation to come soon!

I'm going to Denver for Pure Barre instructor training! I cannot wait!

HAPPY TUESDAY, XO!

Blogging Break

I will be on a "blogging break" until after my best friend's wedding in two weeks. Up until then, I'm trying to get comfortable with my new part-timejob, keep up-to-speed on the part-time job I've had for over a year and prepare for my graduate program...

I can't wait to catch up on everyone's lives after the business subsides, or at least when I get a better grasp on things! Until then...

Source: pinterest.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Listen to Your Body

You've heard fitness professionals and physicians say it over and over again. "Listen to your body!" This tip reigns true not only when you're working out or trying to see how far you can push your muscles, but also after a meal.

Last night, my uncle treated me to a big dinner. For the past few days, I've been helping him with his company's national convention, and as a thank you, he took me to dinner at the hotel where the event is taking place. Long story short, I chose the verde turkey club sandwich (because I'm as sucker for roasted chile peppers) and french fries.

Now before you start shouting at me for eating french fries, I had been such a hurry yesterday that the only things I was able to munch on were fruits and vegetables. I guess you could say I was pretty famished. I figured that with my PB [Pure Barre] work out and walking around in heels all day I deserved some delicious fries! I ate most of my meal and finished it off with a small cup of ice cream - Butterfingers ice cream! YUM!

Are you hungry yet?

Although the food was ridiculously good in the moment, the rest of the night my stomach felt miserable. I guess I'm just not used to digesting such heavy and oily food.

Moral of the story? LISTEN! When your body is giving you clear signs, even if it's after a workout or meal, take good notes! Learning to comprehend these directions will help you in the future. And in my case, reviewing these lessons will help to keep me extra healthy in the future!

Source: flickr.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Did this week fly by for anyone else? HAPPY FRIDAY, XO!

Lethargic Thursday!

The past few nights I've had trouble sleeping. I think it's a mix of work-related stress, exhausted muscles and the fear of oversleeping, therefore missing my 6 a.m. Pure Barre class and having to pay a $20 no-show fee!

So smart little me decided Advil PM would solve my problems and allow me to sleep peacefully through the night.

In case you were wondering - I did, in fact, sleep really well. But when I went to PB [Pure Barre] this morning I was incredibly drowsy. I looked like a sloth trying to "life, tone & burn!" I don't know how I managed to make it through the class, but luckily I did. Part of me wanted to personally apologize to the instructor for looking like a lazy bum, but the other part of me realized does probably doesn't take it offensively when people can't make it through the class without shaking out their legs multiple times.

Moral of the story - DO NOT take a sleep aid the night before an early workout. I guess that's why the back of the bottle says you must plan to get eight hours of sleep with each dose! OOPS! :)

Source: cuteoverload.com via Shannon on Pinterest

HAPPY THURSDAY, XO!

Update: Twice the Pure Barre

So it's been about a week since my last post about fitness. As much as I'd love to say I've contacted my new blog friend & fitness pal Kristine every day in the past week, I haven't. But, I've worked out EVERY day. So that counts for something right?

Today marks my second week of Pure Barre. So why not go to two classes in one day!? I was nervous to try it, but I survived and burned extra calories because my legs were already so fatigued! If I had all the time in the world I think I'd go twice a day, every day. 

My eating habits have been right on target, and I've only been "over my calories" on MyFitnessPal once in the past week. I like to think six/seven days is perfectly acceptable. 

Thank goodness I'm back on track, as my best friend's wedding is exactly one month away! I really think I'm going to feel good in my bridesmaids dress! Hallelujah! 

As a gift of encouragement to myself, I purchased a new pair of Lululemon pants today. After one wear, I love the Wunder Under Pant! If you're looking for a great, slimming workout legging, I'd highly suggest you invest [yes, they're pricey] in a pair!   

My new "trick" to slimming down is from Pinterest, posted below. Of course I've heard it a million times, but reading it makes it easier to commit to memory!

Source: getmovingprincess.blogspot.com via Shannon on Pinterest

HAPPY TUESDAY, XO! 

New Friend & Fitness Partner

Blogging truly blows my mind- it's such a great way to meet new people from all over. I was reading Kristine's latest post on her blog The Best is Yet to Come and wanted to throw her some encouragement. She was bold enough to post "before" photos to track her progress during her current 30-day fitness challenge... She has guts! I hate to be caught in a swimsuit, and I don't think I'd ever be able to post photos of myself online for all to see [and criticize] - more power to you, Kristine!

Anyway, the day continued and I noticed I had an email stating Kristine commented on one of my past posts, in which I talked making new health and fitness goals. I also explained that I'd post updates about my progress... major fail! I haven't done so at all. Luckily, Kristine's comment said that I should email her if I was interested in holding one another accountable. I jumped to respond and now have a new friend to encourage me along the way! Oh the wonder of the blog world!

Today marks my third Pure Barre class! I am in LOVE with this workout. If you haven't tried it, I totally suggest looking to see if there a studio in your area. I've never felt things burn this intensely before, in places that I didn't know could burn. Ha! Let's just say I'm introducing myself to muscles I never knew I had! In addition, I'm also trying my best to refrain from drinking alcohol and eating sweets. This, of course, is a bit difficult because I'm a sucker for a good glass of wine at the end of the night or a cold beer at happy hour with friends. And if you've read my blog for a while, you know I have the biggest sweet tooth. But, I'm bearing down and saying no to some of my favorite things.

I'm so glad that Kristine is going to help keep me on track. Sometimes it takes someone asking about your progress and daily routine to keep you motivated! So cheers (with water instead of champagne) to a new friend and fresh encouragement! If anyone else wants to join our team we'd be happy to include you! :)

This is exactly what I have to tell myself in Pure Barre during our leg series....

Source: skinnymeanshappier.tumblr.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Chi Omega Convention

Please excuse me while I'm MIA the next few days, as I will be volunteering at the Chi Omega National Convention in Phoenix. I even get to wear a certain animal suit to greet all those who attend - trust me, I'll post a picture as soon as I'm able to. Can you guess what animal I'll be dressed as?

Source: data.whicdn.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Generosity

When I think of the word generosity, I tend to associate it money or hospitality. While these are two areas in which one can be very generous, there are so many other ways in which an individual can "give more."

Recently I've been striving to get in tune with what it means to be truly happy. I'm not talking about the joy that comes from a new pair of shoes or declious meal, but the vivid and contagious source of felicity. If only I would have started this blog last summer while reading The Happiness Project. But all "should-haves and could-haves" aside, I'd like to focus my energy towards being generously positive. In turn, I think this will bring my heart and those around me greater happiness. 

In high school I was seen as Miss Optimistic. I was always willing to lend an ear and give sound and encouraging advice to anyone who came my way. After enduring many stresses of the collegiate lifestyle, I can look back and say I've lost part of my positive edge. I'm quick to complain [as hard as it is to admit] and talk about the lows of my day, whereas I used to boast about the highs. 

WHERE HAS THE OPTIMIST GONE? 

I know the real me is lodged somewhere between trying to get a second part-time job and adjusting to the financial stresses of post-undergraduate life. But trials aside, I'm confident that I can bring out the happy-go-lucky attitude that many have associated with me for so long. 

As much as I'd love to be monetarily generous to my friends and family right now, I know that this is the time for me to get my finances in order. And although one day I will be able to fulfill this desire, I hope I can ALWAYS remain generous in the area of happiness, joy and positivity.  

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest

My hope is that each of us will wake up every morning understanding how blessed and privileged we are to live each day. 

What Makes Me Tick

I typed and erased about ten times the reason behind why I'm writing this post. But truthfully, I believe that sometimes others don't have to understand your purpose in order to appreciate the outcome. In simple words, I want to restore and rekindle my life's passions that allow me to thrive...

1. Meeting new people 

2. Great music [like John Mayer's recent album]

3. Watching others use their talents - I can't help but be inspired!

4. Reading a good book, both fiction and non-fiction 

5. Singing 

6. Running while the sun rises [I've been advised to take a few more months off]

7. Acting in a leadership role 

8. Being an aggressive follower in a purposeful group 

9. Following detailed instructions 

10. YouTube videos of all kinds 

11. Putting pen to paper and journaling my heart out

12. A good, meaningful purchase 

13. Crying - It's the heart's way of allowing you to lose weight 

14. Snuggling with my man on the couch 

15. Having my hair played with 

16. Freshly painted nails 

17. Skyping with my Argentine host sister in Spanish 

18. Engaging church services 

19. Quotes

20. Penguins 

So this list is random, I know. I've been struggling lately to put my thoughts into words. Maybe it's the absence of assigned writing assignments, I'm not really sure, but it's the truth. Lately, I've been able to relate to John Mayer's songs "The Age of Worry" and "Walt Grace's Submarine Test, January 1967." If you haven't really listed and digested the words in the songs, I encourage you to do so! 

Source: thecolorfullivingproject.blogspot.com via Shannon on Pinterest

[Pin]spiration: Strength

I needed this today... maybe you do too?!

Source: dangshefine.stockphotosweb.com via Whitney on Pinterest

Ready, Set, GOAL!

We all have goals of different shapes and sizes. For years, I've talked about wanting to feel comfortable in a bikini. When I say years, I mean since middle school when my body went through those changes we won't talk about. I've always carried a little more weight in my tummy than I'd like others to know, so I dress appropriately for my shape, always working around those few extra inches.

A few weeks ago, Mike's family invited me to join them for part of their vacation in San Diego. I was thrilled, until I remembered that would mean a lot of time in a bikini - his family loves to sit on the beach for hours!

Despite my anxiety over the swimsuit dilemma, I decided to book my ticket! I now have under three weeks to kick my butt into gear.

Of course I went to my brothers for advice - I like to call them lean-body fitness professionals. Both of them suggested I start doing two-a-day work outs, including jump rope and lower abdominal work. Also, they told me I should change my attitude about food from..."YUM!!" to "I guess I'll eat that."

So today marks the beginning of my journey towards feeling confident in a bandeau bathing suit - I can't have tan lines in my strapless bridesmaids dress at the end of the summer. I'll find some way to keep you posted about my workout and food regimen and may even be selfish enough to ask for encouragement.

While I know I can't expect speedy results, I plan to remain realistic and work towards feeling better instead of looking for physical change. I'm in need of a body image confidence boost!

Here goes nothing... let's hope this cute sign becomes my reality!

Source: pictureperfectbodywerkit.tumblr.com via Shannon on Pinterest

You've Got To Fight...

For your right, to have a fair trial! Before you jump to any conclusions, let me explain that today I'll be making the two-hour drive to Tucson to fight a traffic violation I was issued a few weeks before graduation. With the Beastie Boys' song aside, I felt that the ticket that was issued unjustly, so I'm going to attempt to explain that to the judge. I mean really, conflicting signage in a construction zone at 10 p.m. would confuse just about anyone. Another police officer affirmed my opinion too... so hopefully I'll "win."

Source: baghdadbythebaysf.com via Eric on Pinterest

I won't get into the details now, but I will have to write a follow-up post to let you know how it plays out. All I can ask for is prayer - I tend to have terrible anxiety and lose sleep over the smallest things.

But truly, I hope this experience proves to be beneficial. I've never had to defend my actions in front of a judge. I don't have anything to hide so it should prove to be a good exercise. Hopefully my wishful thinking will save me $200....

Have a great Monday, XO!

Make It A Stay-cation - Guest Post

I know my posts have been very inconsistent lately, but life has been full with job location changes, internship applications and apartment searching with my brothers [for them, not me- if you've followed my journey since moving back in with my parents]. But, today I've written a guest post for my friend Sara over at Sincerely Sara Cate. Check out what I wrote about turning animal/house sitting into a mini "stay-cation!" I promise helping someone out and a change of scenery will prove to be tons of fun!

Source: indieogdenutah.com via Shannon on Pinterest

If you aren't following Sara yet, make sure to do so! She's a dear friend and incredible mentor, with an amazing story of her own. 

HAPPY THURSDAY, XO! 

Lifestyles

Plain and simple, we all live our own lifestyles. Most of us choose where we want to live, with whom and for how long. But there are times and events that constitute a change of pace.

Within the past month, I graduated college and moved back in with my parents. If someone would have asked me four years ago if I'd ever move back in with my folks, I would have said no. But with an economy that's been turned upside down and is just starting turn turn around (hopefully), I don't have many options.

This weekend, I watched my best friend's animals while her and her fiance were hiking the Grand Canyon. It was a dream come true! I stayed at their condo, swam in the pool and walked the puppy around the nice gated community. I tried to pet their diva kitty Tink, but my allergies got the best of me.

While staying there I did a lot of thinking. While I'm living with my parents who go to bed at 9 p.m., unless they're waiting up for me at the end of the night, she's tucked into the privacy of her home with her fiance. Can you sense my jealousy?

Here's the thing. After living on my own for four years, it's a bit difficult to have someone dictate my daily routine. I no longer get to choose the coffee I brew in the morning (I guess I could buy my own and ask others not to use it, but that could be awkward...) or the meals I eat in the evening. We eat as a family, which is great, but it's not what I'm used to.

So here's my dilema. Do I allow myself to "settle" for the generosity of my parents so that I can pay back my student loans quicker, or do I try to make ends meet and live a more desirable lifestyle?

It looks like I have a lot of thinking and researching to do...

Source: vanessachristenson.com via Shannon on Pinterest

What makes your lifestyle unique? How do you make decisions so that you're happier on a daily basis?

HAPPY MONDAY, XO!

Friday Night Lights

During my spring semester of junior year, I lived with a dear friend of mine named Megan. That semester she became obsessed with the TV series Friday Night Lights. Every time I'd walk into our room I could find her on Netflix, curled up with a blanket watching the show. Episodes would come and go, as she became more and more obsessed with "FNL!"

I was always too busy running from meeting to meeting, so I never got to start watching the show. But I can tell you that I've spent the past two days immersed in the first season - just as, if not more obsessed as Meg. I've been plenty productive, checking my emails, writing thank you notes and working from home, but I really can't get my mind off FNL.

Cheers to my new guilty pleasure of the summer!

Source: tumblr.com via Shannon on Pinterest

[I love this saying they chant before each game...]

HAPPY THURSDAY, XO!

Mindful Monday: Me Time

Finally I have some time to sit down and blog again. This past weekend, my parents threw me a graduation party to celebrate the accomplishment of finishing college. We spent all of last week prepping and planning each detail of the evening. It was so much fun and I am blessed to have such supportive friends and family, most of whom could attend. 

Since it'd been four years since my last graduation party, I'd forgotten that I wouldn't have much time to sit and visit with people. Instead, I felt like I was running around like a crazy person [in heels]! 

Sincerely Sara Cate can vouch for me, I was making the rounds to say hello thank you for coming, and barely got to take a few bites of food - Thank you Sara for making me a plate! 

Here is a photo of Dashing [Sara's husband], myself and Sara from the party! I love them dearly and am so fortunate that they were able to make the two-hour drive to attend. 

But I don't want to use this post to talk about my grad party - it deserves its own space. The idea of sitting down to write about it works perfectly with my theme for "Mindful Monday." 

This week I want to make sure to take time to do the little things that make me happy. Since I'm living with my parents who are early risers, I haven't gotten much "me time," which would normally consist of drinking coffee and reading/writing blogs in the morning for about an hour. Without offending them, I need to find a part of the day when I can be selfish and do these things. Blogging, journaling and reading really help tap into my creativity and passions - I'm not willing to give that up anytime soon! 

I hope each of you can continue to find the time to do what makes your heart happy! 

HAPPY MONDAY, XO! 

   

Streaming Live... John Mayer!

When someone asks me who my favorite singer is, I quickly answer, with enthusiasm, "JOHN MAYER!" So it's only natural for me to share the link to stream his new CD on iTunes. Right now I'm only through the third song so I can't offer many criticisms or comments, but you will notice that this album is different than his other ones. As my brothers are saying, "More cowboy," than anything he has ever done before.

I guess I can give ONE opinion...I think he looks better with short hair!

John Mayer then...

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest

John Mayer now...

Source: am.newuvision.us via Shannon on Pinterest

Regardless, I know I'll be listening to it all day while organizing and moving things back into my room at my parents' house!

HAPPY TUESDAY, XO!

I am a College Graduate!

This weekend I graduated from the University of Arizona, which means I am officially a UA alumnae. It was so nice to have my parents and brothers in Tucson for the weekend to celebrate.

Wildcat for life! 

Love my brothers. 

Family!

As I reflect on the past few days, I can honestly say that the UA was the perfect school for me. I was away from my family, but close enough to drive home if I needed to. There were plenty of ways to get involved in campus life, and without those opportunities I wouldn't have met some of my greatest friends.

Some of my best friends in front of our HOME away from home. 

Grace Flynn Photography. 

One of my best friends. We met at freshman orientation and got to graduate sitting next to each other!

Grace Flynn Photography. 

WE DID IT! Thank goodness Mike and I both graduated this weekend! Love you!

Also, I just want to say how amazing it was to attend the commencement ceremony, with my peers from ALL colleges within the university. It was so cool to see everyone's pride for their degree, and then the collective school spirit... How many times did we chant "U of A" throughout the ceremony?!


I must thank my family, friends and every person I've met in the past four years. For, "I am a part of all that I have met," said Alfred Lord Tennyson, and I couldn't agree more. 


So what's next?!....


I just moved in my with my roommates in Scottsdale, I guess you could call them my parents, and they are throwing me a graduation party on Saturday. After that I'll be house sitting for my best friend, continuing my work with the College of Medicine the following week and starting graduate school at ASU in August. I also hope to fit a few vacations in there too! 

HAPPY MONDAY, XO! 

This is Real Life.

It's finally hitting me that I graduate college TOMORROW. There have been a few moments that have made it more real than others: saying goodbye to the younger girls at Chi Omega (with tears), having my last conference with my independent study professor and decorating the top of my cap.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to have attended such a phenomenal university. Four years ago I became a Wildcat, and I know I'll be a "Wildcat for Life," even while attending our rival college for graduate school. The people I've met and the experiences I've had at the UA have shaped me and made me who I am today.

I can't wait to wear this tomorrow with my fellow graduates!

HAPPY THURSDAY, XO!

Enjoying Verses Overindulging - Help!

As you may know, I graduate in less than a week. It's a very fun and exciting time of year, except the excuse, "celebrate because it's your time doing _______," has added some inches to my waistline. Most people wouldn't notice, because I like to think I'm good at dressing to suit my shape, but it's really getting to me.

This morning I have senior photos with some of my sorority sisters, and all I can think about is... "Why did I drink that beer, eat ice cream and have carbs so late at night?" The answer: Because it was one of the last times to sit on your butt and be lazy by the time, with some of the most important people in your life who will be leaving the state soon. But, it is beyond frustrating that I can't even focus on finding a cute outfit to wear and am dwelling in self pity.

Also, although I've been trying to be positive about my knee injury, the inability to do cardio isn't helping this mental battle over my image.

Source: Uploaded by user via Belinda on Pinterest

^This is how I feel! ^

I normally have great self control, but for some reason I can't figure out a balance between diligently logging healthy foods using My Fitness Pal and enjoying "not so healthy" food at all of my favorite places in Tucson. Not to mention, for the past four years I've missed out on some GREAT restaurants. Of course, it's only natural for my friends to drag me to each of them to make sure my  "last tastes" of Tucson are complete.

So what do I do?

I really don't want to miss out on these last moments with phenomenal people, but I have gained weight. This is not an exaggeration... Since Spring Break I've packed on about 6 pounds, which is a lot for someone that's 5-foot-3. Maybe posting this for the world to see my struggles with weight management will help me regain self control.

But wait... What's on the agenda after senior pictures? Brunch at this famous breakfast place called Bobo's that serves specialty pancakes bigger than the plates. I've never been there [a major Tucson fail] and I made these plans a week ago. I can't break them and yet all I can think about is that I hate the way I feel and look.

Hopefully I'll add some exercise to my day after the pancakes... Wish me luck!

HAPPY SATURDAY, XO!

Mindful Monday: Keep Me In Your Heart

Tonight is my last Chi Omega chapter. It's weird to think that [almost] every monday for the past four years I've put on business casual, my pin and attended chapter dinner and meetings. Tonight my senior letter from my parents will be read, along with a slideshow and I'll have to stand up to say my final words to my 250 sisters. Although I spent half of the date dash on Friday crying over the fact that it was one of the last time we'd all be together, dancing to our chapter's song, "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," I truly want to convey more than tears.

College is when you find out who you are. You leave the bubble of "home" and are given new freedoms.

I took chances, made choices and most of all, learned that when people love you for you, that is what's most important.

My Chi Omega sisters are a true testament to this. They embrace my music obsessions, crazy dance moves and desire to always want to do what's right [even if it's the smallest thing]. Each day, they inspire me with their volunteer work, activism and innovation. If I've learned one thing in my four years it's that surrounding yourselves by those who love, support and inspire you, is imperative. For when they do those things, they will also challenge you to be a better YOU.

So as I struggle to write my senior goodbye, I will focus on two of my favorite things...

Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest

Source: chiomega.com via Shannon on Pinterest

So this Monday- and hopefully forevermore, I will remember that even though goodbyes are difficult, it just takes finding a special place in your heart for someone to keep the love and memories alive.

HAPPY MONDAY, XO!

His Grace Is Good

This morning I wrote this on my wrist as a reminder of His grace. It may not be classy to write on yourself, but sometimes you're desperate for remembrance...

Mindful Monday: Four Years of Blessings

People always told me that college would fly by, but it didn't really sink in, until now. Today is my last full week of my undergraduate education - where did the last four years go? Of course finishing college is bittersweet, but I'm truly going to try to celebrate the fun times and memories. 

Yesterday I had the opportunity to take senior photos from three of my sorority sisters. These women have helped me grow into my skin and become who I am. I wanted to share some of my favorite photos with you, and show you one that I took of my roommate a few weeks back! By the way, there were SO many fantastic images... I sort of had to choose these at random, from the 100 that I loved! 

Meet Eleanor- one of my best friends :)

Here's Kelly - Such a California beauty!

Last but not least - Chelsey! She's my "cousin" in Chi Omega!

And here's my lovely roommate, Karissa! I'm obsessed with the flowers in front of our sorority house!

Aren't these ladies beautiful? 

Who knows, maybe I'll start doing photography on the side?! I don't have fancy editing software, but I can make do with iPhoto for now! 

So what's mindful about this post? For the next 19 days - yes I have a countdown on my iPhone - I'm going to reflect and celebrate the beautiful blessings of my college career. Starting tonight, with all of my Chi Omega seniors. 

HAPPY MONDAY, XO!