Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

Christmas: the annual festival of the Christian Church commemorating that birth of Jesus; celebrated on December 25 and now generally observed as a legal holiday and an occasion to exchange gifts.

According to dictionary.com the above is the definition of Christmas; and, I must say it has gotten it pretty accurate to what we view it as these days. Christmas is in existence because of Him, and now we as a people have made it into a mad dash to the mall to purchase the "perfect" gift. Now, I love a good gift just like the rest of us. But as I have grown up I have become more observant of what this "government holiday" has evolved into. Not only do we grow up, and loose the ability to believe in Santa, but the holiday becomes less special with age. 
Aren't things supposed to get better with age?
I personally truly enjoy giving gifts. I love finding something that will bring a smile to a friend, family member, or co-workers face. But this year I just feel different...

I have been blessed to have people in my life that have taught me the value of our lives, and everything that being here entails. A wonderful, amazing, and strong young women, that I have the pleasure to call a great friend ventured to Haiti this past summer. Through her stories, and amazing photographs, she touched so many lives. I find myself thinking back to everything she told me about this trip in an effort to keep myself grounded this holiday season. My intention is not to discourage anyone from enjoying this fabulous holiday, but to ask you to think a little longer about where you are, and how unbelievably lucky you are to have been born here. 
(A photo Linds took while in Haiti.)

The holidays for me have become a time to reflect on what we really need, not desire. This is where I find myself struggling at the thought of beginning my shopping. I would rather someone donate their time, talents, or hearts to something that means something to them then to spend on me, and for the first time in my life I truly believe in what I am saying. We are given talents for a reason, and I believe no matter where we are, our financial status, or our relationship with a greater power, we can always give. You never know what a smile can do, listening to someone tell a story, or even holding a door can do for someone's day. Giving doesn't always mean money.
It's my first Christmas as Salon Laurie and something they try to do is help make a Christmas more special for a family from The House of Ruth. I think we did an amazing job :)
(Rachel, Suz, Cait, and Laurie getting it all ready)

So when you're running around getting those last few gifts, or sitting in traffic after a long day, and believe me I know it's frustrating, just take a deep breathe and remember what this holiday is really about.

I don't expect anyone to change anything about their Christmas, and I will probably have to cave and purchase presents. But I bet you I'll get everyone TOMS :)

My wish for Christmas this year is for everyone who isn't as blessed as me to have a wonderful, warm, and comfortable holiday filled with just, happiness. 

Happy Holidays!
May your days be full of love, life, and inspiration.

stay inspired,
tiff :)


Sunday, September 18, 2011

Fall, a time to...

... reflect.
Greetings from my lovely, comfy couch on this fall-like Sunday. I took a slightly longer hiatus then usual from writing for many reasons I still have yet to uncover. My life has changed in many ways over the last two months, with school ending, and work beginning. 
School coming to an end really caught me off guard, not because I didn't realize my time there would be over, cause believe I counted those hours like it was my job, but because I didn't know if I was ready for it to be done. The last year of my life was, well, Paul Mitchell. I lived, and breathed, the brand, the culture, the lifestyle. My time in school changed me in many ways, for the better. I grew up where I needed to, evolved, and became stronger. I gained an amazing education, and made some amazing friends along the way.
But now, I am moving on to the next stage of my life. Work. I love where I work, the salon is amazing. The girls there are truly great people, and I love going to work everyday. Yet, somehow I feel like I can't find my place anywhere. Something in me is... lost. What is missing though, I don't honestly know. Or am I just not allowing myself to be happy?

Reflecting over the last year beings so many emotions to the surface. It really means moving forward and not bringing along anything from the past. This is probably the hardest thing for me to do. I don't want/need a boy to make me complete. I have my career, I have my best friends, and I have myself. But something just seems to feel like it is missing...

On a lighter note, there are so many good things that have happened with this shift in my life. I now work next to a Whole Foods, andddd a Starbucks :) I found a blog that posts pictures on the Olsen's fashion, and they are like who I look up to other then DVF (don't judge me).

 I blast Adele every day and sing as loud as possible in the car, which could very well be the reason I remain single ;) At the end of the day at least I can still make myself laugh just cause of how weird I really am. This life isn't easy, and there sure as hell isn't any handbook. But oh well, just trying to remember the little things are what matter.
 So, till another time, enjoy whatever it is that makes you happy :)


Sunday, September 11, 2011

Remembering.

In a 5th grade classroom, my world stopped, as it did for millions of people all over the USA. 
Fear, anger, and confusion filled all of us as we watched our great nation be attacked. 10 years later we think back on those days some with hatred, some with sadness, and some with pride that we as a nation came together. The lives of those we lost, the families torn apart, the pure anger that pushed us through another day are things we will never forget. 9/11 forever changed us as a country; we are STRONGER. I remember looking at my mom as we rushed out of school, and in all seriousness, asking her if we were going to be okay. For the first time in many of our lives we were frightened that as a country, we weren't safe. For days, even months, after the flag was flown high. On cars, on houses, anywhere someone could see that we as a country will not be defeated. Recruiting offices flooded with young men and women willing to risk their lives defending us. Not only is this a day to remember those we lost when the towers went down, when the Pentagon was attacked, and when flight 93 was brought to the ground in PA, but the soldiers we have lost since then. Thank you to everyone who lost their lives on that day, you are some of the bravest people this country has ever lost. 

Forever will your name have a special place in our hearts.

Friday, August 12, 2011

well hello :)

Well, hello everyone :) or anyone who is reading this I should say. I haven't been writing a lot lately because, well, I am not sure what it is exactly I would quiet like to say. This past month, seeing as it has been a month since I have written, has been one of a kind. I traveled to New York City, found an amazing salon, and hopefully opportunity, experienced the Alexander McQueen exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and discovered I am stronger then I know.

This past week I have come to the conclusion that I worry too much. Not that this is a new development or anything, I just have come to terms with the fact that I can not control anyone but myself. My happiness is not determined by someone else, it is not calibrated by the likes of someone else. it is and will be always determined by me. My sadness, my joy, my freedom, and my hope and faith in this life is in my hands. Where the hell have I been? To not have realized this before? However, that is life. My desire to be who I am at all times is tested so often that I forget who I am in the first place. And truthfully that scared the shit out of me. What I want from life isn't fortune, it isn't material objects, nor is it fame. What I truly want is to be happy. For as long as I can remember my happiness comes to me from making others happy, and I enjoy it! I enjoy seeing a smile being brought to someone else's face because I made a joke, or tripped on that invisible rock that seems to follow me around. My humor, my ability to give someone my smile when they are feeling low, that's what brings joy to my heart. This sometimes means I get hurt because people think that they are, and will be, able to walk all over me. But you know, for real, and for once I feel like telling everyone to kindly, and politely, shove it. 
This may come to some as a shock, and it may take them some time to remove their jaw from the ground, but I feel as though it will liberate me in ways that I need at this moment in my life. However, my timing... well, let's just say it isn't always precisely accurate. I am a lover, a fighter, and someone that will remain loyal to you to the day that I die, but I will not be walked on.
I pride myself on who I am and what I know I  can accomplish. My confidence needs a little work, my determination is at it's height. I know that I can do great and it is those that look down at me that keep me going. I wouldn't be able to feel at peace with this if it wasn't for someone in my life that has always proven to me since I met her that being a fighter means being who you are. 
Lisa, if you're reading this, you have shown me what a true fighter is. We've had our ups and downs, and you have had a year that has served you things that you wouldn't have imagined, but your resilience, and strength has surpassed anyone's expectations. Eternally, and humbly I thank you.

Heres to the beginning of the rest of my life. 
Cheers.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Cheers!

... to postivive > negative, aka my new look on life :)

So, first and foremost, I shall explain my little hiatus from you all. Lately, I have been doing a little revamping of well, myself. I found that I was in a bit of a rut, and to me, that was simply unacceptable. To give the best of myself to everyone else, I must give the best of myself to myself. It sounds silly but it's true!  How can you give your best, when you're not your best? You can't, and if you think you can, you're doing what I did, lying to yourself. Needless to say, something needed to change, and after speaking to some of the most inspiring and admirable people in my life, I came to one conclusion. 
Positive > Negative. 

Now that that is out of the way... hi everyone!! I am so happy to be writing tonight because I feel I have so much to say! This past weekend was the fourth of July and I really accomplished a lot. After, accepting my new attitude and turning every negative thought into a positive one, and I mean EVERY thought, it felt like I had a little angry person in my head! I made a promise to myself that I wasn't going to let anything stand in my way. This new attitude gave my so much new energy and passion for what I do! And today, was a true testament to exactly that.

I had the pleasure of having a lady by the name of Ann sit in my chair today, and we both had no idea the impact she was about to make on my life. Ann was unhappy with her hair from her last visit, and wanted something that would make her feel better. After formulating what was going to be done, I began applying the color, aka talking time! If you don't know me I love to talk, sometimes a little too much, but what I love more is learning about the amazing people I have the opportunity of meeting everyday. Let me tell you, Ann works in social services, and it takes an impeccably strong individual to do these jobs. Ann told me of someone she works with/for who has disabilities and after being removed from a neglected atmosphere, is now safely in a nursing home. Something you might never have known by looking at someone is that they've never had their hair altered, they've never had that amazing salon experience, and they're never enjoyed a haircut they've received. All these things were true of the lady that Ann was so kindly introducing me to through her loving, and passionate words. Caroline, is in her 60s and has never had someone make her feel beautiful. Now, I'm sorry but that breaks my heart, and there I was sitting in the middle of the clinic floor with tears in my eyes, heart breaking, for this woman I've never met. Ann asked me about bringing her in to have her hair done, and what that could look like for Caroline, considering she also has chemo once every two weeks. (Annnd enter more tears.) Instantly, I told her that when she emails the owner of my school in regards to making this happen that, if it was alright with her, she include me as the person to have the pleasure of having Caroline as my quest. Now, anyone would be capable to do her hair, but I already felt so attached to her. 

My point to this is that being in the beauty industry we have the power, the ability, and most of all the responsibility to do whatever we can to make someone feel beautiful. That's what it's all about right? Life if about celebrating the people in it, it's about empowering each other to be the best that we can be. Yet, we tear each other down, we say negative things, and we judge. I can not say that I have never been guilty of any of the above, but I can say that I am making a strong effort to change the way that I think. Something that has been on my mind a lot lately is how much we, as a society, judge. I vow to anyone, and everyone, reading this that I am making an effort to change that. I don't know how much I can, or if I will make any difference at all, but to me it's more then that. 

I know that this posting was on the longer side but I just wanted to share with you something that truly touched my heart. Today I woke up hoping to do my very best, and I learned that my very best is always ready to be tested. I am beyond thankful to be in this industry with the power to make people feel beautiful. You never know what someone is going through, so I leave you with a challenge. 
Take 5 minutes to do something small for someone, even just a smile can change more then you will ever know.

Thank you so much for reading, and thank you for whatever it is that you do each day! I truly appreciate you :)

tk.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Fashion Focus: Celeste.

Good Morning! 
I am super excited to be starting my Fashion Focus section to the blog! I couldn't think of anyone better to kick of this awesome piece then Celeste! I go to school with Celeste at The Temple: A Paul Mitchell Partner School, and her fashion amazes me. I sat down with her the other day and we chatted about, well, what other then fashion.

I asked her a few questions I find really helpful to ask when you find someone's style that you really enjoy...

Where are most of your pieces from?
"Charlotte Russe, Forever 21, H&M, and thrift stores" were some of her top places. She doesn't feel the need to break the bank to create her own awesome style, which is something I don't think a lot of people realize. You can find some amazing pieces in the craziest places, and thrift stores really are an amazing place to look! If you've never been to a thrift store I highly suggest you check one out :)

What inspires your style?
Celeste didn't surprise me here either, her style is so spot on to what is in that when she said, "I spend a lot of time online, and looking in magazines to see what is hot and in". When you are going to put something together it really helps if you have someone, or something that inspires you, to go off of. Magazines were among the other things Celeste listed as ways she gets ideas, and becomes inspired to create the amazing looks that she does! What I love most about her style is that she still makes it her own. She looks for what she wants to achieve, but she doesn't fully just take that look she makes sure that she stays true to her personal style. Always make sure that you put your own little twist on things :)

Outfit Breakdown:
Shirt: H&M
Pants: Lucaya
Shoes: Gussini
Belt: H&M
Accessories: Forever 21

Celeste really is an awesome person to follow for fashion because, she's always coming to school in these kick ass outfits! I am truly thankful that she let me into her fashion world, and I look forward to breaking down some more pieces of hers for you guys! Stay tuned and look for more Fashion Focus pieces and more questions answered from this month's fashion bad-ass, Celeste!

Thank you all for reading & stay inspired!
tk.


I'm still here :)

Hello everyone! Today is kind of gross out, I'm not going to lie, it's very muggy and humid. Therefor, after my lovely court date this morning(only received one point!) I headed over to Barnes & Noble, my absolute favorite place, to take a nice relaxing mental day! This month has flown by and been rather packed full of events, can't say I am complaining. However, I absolutely can't wait till my New York trip on July 16th! The past couple weekends I have been making some purchases and I really want to share some of my favorite with all of you :)

One of my most important, and needed, purchases was a brush set from Sephora!
(the outside is a gorgeous silver, metallic packaging)
(the inside is a nice basic compiling of brushes you need for everyday use)

My next favorite purchases were an amazing liquid foundation frmm DiorSkin called Sculpt, and I am in love! Also I bought the powder foundation as well to set it!
(liquid)
(powder)

Clothing wise I picked up two pieces from Nordstrom, my second favorite place ever, and they fit perfectly into my everyday black and white attire.
Love this skirt; it has great flow to it and is comfortable! I wore it to New Jersey and back!
This shirt wasn't online so you'll have to forgive the lovely camera phone shot. The shirt is extremely comfortable as well, and the lace really makes it elegant at the same time!
Here we have one of my favorite shoe brands of all time, Vans. They are truly an outstanding shoe, and they will last you. Known for making an incredible skating shoe, Vans has really branched out with their lifestyle collections, as well making the brand wearable for even the non-skater! (From the Vans store.)

Lastly, I picked up this bracelet from Buckle. I have a bracelet already from Humanity, which is who makes this bracelet as well, and I love the message it sends out. People are always asking me what they say, and it just makes for an awesome conversation starter! This is one of the fancier, more elegant studded bracelets. It is connected by a magnetic clasp, and is a little more pricier then the others. However, I strongly suggest picking on up they go with everything and they really are awesome pieces to have!

I also this week went to New Jersey, as I kind of stated before, for a show called the What Inspires You Tour. It was a little taste of some of the best in Paul Mitchell, and it really was a wonderful refresher. They did some crazy things that I was able to see in Las Vegas when I went in February, and I just want to share a few photos with you!
Robert Cromeans!
:)

Alright, so this has been a long one I know. But I have been trying to sit down and get this together for what seems like forever! As soon as I post this I am going to start my new Fashion Focus piece where I will be pulling some people who's fashion I admire and picking their brain for where they get their style! So stay tuned :)

Stay Inspired everyone!
tk.

Oh! I almost forgot my new business cards came in, aren't they adorable!?














Thursday, June 9, 2011

Oh, where does the time go...

... when you're doing hair :)

Good evening, everyone! It has been a little while since I've had a few minutes to sit down and write, but today was such a good day I had to! Today, I had the pleasure of doing one of my oldest, and best friend's hair :) I am assuming she likes it considering the photo I am stealing is currently her profile picture!
the lovely Elise.
Elise came in with her hair roughly 4 inches longer, if not more, and some rather special fringe. We went ahead and opted to take her straight across bangs, that were immensely grown out, and transition them into a side band that she can allow to grown, and shift into the rest of her hair. I point cut her basic shape to take out some weight, and juts blew her hair out straight. After hitting it with the smoothing iron to put some hair into place, she was set to go! Also, since Elise will be studying abroad this upcoming fall, so she won't be able to receive a haircut as often as I'd suggest; this was also put into consideration as to how much hair we ultimately would be removing.

After Elise's hair was complete, we went for a bit of lunch at one of my favorites, The Orchard. As usual, it was delicious, and I hope Elise enjoyed it too! I know we both enjoyed our next stop, The Candy Kitchen. Now, this isn't the Candy Kitchen you all might be familiar with found all over Ocean City, MD, it is a local candy shop found in downtown Frederick. We both picked up some chocolate covered pretzels, and a few other delicious goodies! Yumm :)

Fed, happy, and in a wonderful mood despite the awfully hot weather, I headed back to school. Due to the heat school wasn't too bumping today, therefor I took the opportunity to get my hair done :) Taking away the red, and adding some blonde pieces to the front, really helped me change up my look while keeping the awesome cut I have currently. I really enjoy my hair color at the moment as it allows me to be more adventurous with my make up choices! I encourage anyone who feels a little bored with their look, or looking to change it up some, to ask your stylist (or me!) to use either a block color method, or throw in some peak-a-boos to brighten up your everyday look! 

This week has been so inspiring, and I truly am so lucky to be in this industry! My future might be making a few turns for the better sooner then I thought but, I couldn't be more thrilled! I hope everyone is having an outstanding week, and thank you for reading!

Sending inspiration & dreams your way!
:)

tk.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Trying something new :)

I hope you enjoy :)

I was driving home in traffic today thinking to myself, and talking to myself, sometimes even out loud (don't act like you've never done it), and for once I was productively using the time and came to some conclusions. First, I shot down my own idea of making YouTube videos. Not just because they'll end up hours long because I talk so much, but because I don't think I am prepared to jump into that pool of thought. Therefor, I'll stick to writing. Which brings us to number 2! Yes, I'm aware this probably already exists, but I thought to myself, why not infuse the concepts used on YouTube into my already existing blog? Light bulb! Stay with me people, number three then had to be compiling an organized plan of action as to how I was going to conduct this genius thought and make it happen. That part didn't get fully developed to say the least, but I do know where I want to go with this, so we shall see what happens!

My first ever blog haul!
A haul, for those who don't know, is usually in the form of a video where someone shows, and explains, all the things they may have recently purchased. Over the last few days I purchased some items that I thought would be cool to share :)

1. The first thing I came across was this awesome bow ring from PacSun! At only $8.50 I couldn't resist! (And if you know me I LOVE bows!) It's already received many compliments!
Sorry for the bad lighting, I was driving!

2. These awesome shoes from MRKT, were a steal! I really wanted this style of shoe so badly, and after an hour of searching at DSW they were waiting for right there in the sale section at 30% off :) Not to mention they are crazy comfortable, always a plus!
Bad picture off internet via cell, they're in my car currently :) yes I'm being that lazy.

4. This one would be my new book! I previously talked out it in my last post, and will do a full review soon! It is amazing, a must read!

5. Graduation for a lucky few is this Friday, and although I have a few dresses that would be appropriate and easy to choose from, why not use the excuse to get a new one :) This one is from Lauren Conrad's line for KOHLS, LC. It's the perfect blend of visual appeal, function, and comfort for the event!

6. Lastly, I really wanted a side bag (you know the ones that are really popular right now) just bigger than the one I currently own from Target, and I just couldn't find one I really liked. So, while I was wondering around KOHLS I found this little nugget of heaven hiding! And yes, it was even on sale!
(Bad lighting)

So those were all of my major purchases lately, and I'm really excited to use them all! Breaking in the shoes has begun, and I already picked out jewelry for the dress on Friday! Needless to say I am currently content with my spending addiction at the moment, the first step is admitting you have a problem :)

Before I go I really wanted to share my favorite staple piece of the month!

This crochet vest from Lauren Conrad via KOHLS is amazing! My friend Lyss had bought it and I borrowed it so much I just went out and bought her one so I could keep mine :) It helps dress up or down any outfit, is light weight and easy to wear! It's instantly become a staple in my Spring/Summer wardrobe!

Well I hope you enjoyed this, and I hope to do some more things such as reviews, how to's, tutorials, and much, much more! Feel free to leave me any comments and/or suggestions on facebook!

Thank you so much for reading, and I'll write you soon!

xoxo,
tk :)





Monday, May 30, 2011

Dreams are the fuel to my life.

Hi everyone! It's been a little while since I've written anything, it's been kind of crazy around here. Mostly I've been trying to figure some stuff out and figure out where I want to direct my life. It's not just answering questions like where do I want to work, but it's deciding the type of people I want to surround myself with, and if they are going to help me be a better person or hold me back. Where I am right now in my life is very important to where I will be in the next five to ten years. I've been looking around on YouTube, watching videos, and mainly just getting inspired. Hours later I find myself so immersed in beauty videos, tutorials, how to videos, and vlogs. 
Suddenly, I got this surge of inspiration; not only inspiration, but passion. I know where I want to go, and I know it is going to take a long time, and some true, old fashion hard work, something I think my generation doesn't understand entirely. The generations prior to mine worked very hard to get where they wanted to be, and sometimes I feel like my friends, and the people around me don't want to put in the time. I've been guilty of this, as I'm sure many people have, but I also never wanted anything this bad before. I am willing to do whatever it takes, and hopefully it pays off. 
Right now something that's been giving me a lot of inspiration and focus is, Kelly Cutrone's new book, 'Normal Gets You Nowhere'. This book is in your face, real, and not afraid to take chances. Cutrone's whit and sarcasm truly sets the tone, and amplifies her no shit attitude. Not afraid to bring topics to her reader's attention, Kelly talks about anything from her PR company, to sex, to what it takes to make it in the business world. If you're looking for a good sense of direction, and you're not afraid of the attitude, I strongly urge anyone to grab a copy and enjoy!

Lastly, I really feel the need to talk a little about my outlook on life. I really feel like everyone needs to remember to take a little break and focus on what means the most to them. Friends, family, whatever it may be, just remember what matters and what doesn't. I might be in the beauty industry, but that doesn't mean that I can't take a day off, and not do my hair and make up. I've noticed myself getting a little into material things more then I usually would, and I just want to kind of pull myself out of that before I let it get worse. Right now I'm torn, I'll be honest. People have ben really disappointing me and it's made me pull away from them. I find myself getting bossed around, and I don't stand up for myself. I'm at a cross roads, do I just pull away and focus on my career and future, or do I try and talk things out? This week is packed with hair to be done, graduation to attend, and some decisions to be made. Not to mention one of my oldest, and bets friends was in an accident this past weekend, and it really upset me. I haven't really heard from him in a while, and it just sucks to be away from him and his family during something like this. I just ask that you keep him in your prayers and pray for his recovery and return home. I know he will be fine, he is too stubborn, and too hard headed to not get back on his feet.

Well, today turned out slightly lengthy, but if there is anything that anyone got out of this just remember how important life is, and always let someone know what they mean to you. 

xoxo,
tk.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

For the heart,

... is an organ of fire.

Good evening everyone! Today has been a roller coaster of emotions. Have you ever had one of those days where everything just hits you, and you're not quite sure why? Well, that was today. I wanted to cry, I wanted to laugh and be hyper, I just simply didn't have the emotional capacity to do any of the above. I decided after feeling horribly sick, to take the day off, and actually rest. After being visited by two of my best friends, and resting, I felt better already. But a lot was, and is, on my mind. When Alex came over we talked a lot, as usual; but not the usual was being discussed. Instead of dumb gossip we really talked about life, feelings, and where we were headed. This conversation is what sparked my new series, which I am so excited about! 
I really want to showcase the unique, amazing plethora of people that are in my life. The people I am privileged to have in my life are going in so many different directions that it is almost crazy difficult to keep up! Over the next few weeks I will begin interviewing a wide variety of my friends, peers, teachers, and most of all the people that I truly look up to. Until then I really am just trying to focus on where I want to be, and how I will get there. I know my plan and no, I'm not telling you just yet! So please keep your eyes out for the interviews to come, any title ideas for the series?! Let me know!

Here are some pictures I've found some inspiration from recently, take a look :)


Please keep Joplin, Missouri in your prayers, they need us.

Inspire someone tomorrow :)
xoxo.





Sunday, May 22, 2011

Anchors & Bows.

It's currently 3 in the morning which naturally seemed like the perfect time to get some things off my chest. This past week, and even the weeks before, have been really unsettling for me. Friendships, relationships, school, home, job searching, and most of all planning have all been on my mind. School will done for me by the end of the summer, leaving state boards to follow shortly after. Not only is time dwindling down, but it is dwindling at a very fast rate. Making decisions has never been an easy task for me to say the least. But where to spend my life, where to make my next fresh start, it's a lot to consider. I have been thinking so intensely about it all that I tend to freak myself out, horrible habit, I know believe me. I have come to some conclusions, well, let's call them possibilities, conclusions is too permanent for me at this present time. I know that I want to move, how far? How drastic? I am not sure, but moving is something that will happen, and needs to happen in the near future.

I need change. Plain and simple. My ability to control myself and distance myself from those that I need to is, well, nonexistent. I know that to better myself, and to be the person that I know I can be I have to remove myself and start fresh. Places like California, aka really freaking far away, and South Miami, are some of the selections I've made thus far. But honestly it hasn't occurred to me until recently that I let everyone tell me how to act, what to do, and how to be. I follow this path because people have deemed it appropriate. It shouldn't matter, because I am me. I am finding my spot in this world. I have fallen into an amazing career and I absolutely love it! I wouldn't want to be doing anything else. I have changed, and people have told me so many times recently that I seem different. It feels good to know I am on the right path and sometimes I just need to take a step back and truly realize how blessed I am. Old friends have re-entered my life, I've met some new amazing people, and I am ready to be the person that I was always meant to be :)

People change, and that's okay. It's taken me a long time to realize this, and now that I have I'm okay with it. At the end of the day I just want everyone to be happy. I might have some people in my life right now that aren't helping me get to where I need to be, but I know that no matter what I will get where I am going. Where ever that may be :)

... just wanted to show off the new hair that inspired the change :)

Truly lucky to have everyone in my life that I do, and couldn't ask for more!
Thank you everyone :)

xoxo.


Monday, May 16, 2011

I'm destined...

... for greatness.

This weekend was just short of crazy. Saturday I was lucky enough to be a part of some lovely young ladies prom preparations. First was Kelsey :)
(Isn't her dress to die for?)
Kelsey's hair was simple yet elegant, just like her. This dress was so amazing that she didn't need crazy hair or jewelry, not that she needs it anyway. We just curled her hair with a wand and pinned it up, and she looked gorgeous! I hope she had an amazing night, and I can't wait to do her hair for graduation :)
Ps. Ms. Linda made a kick ass lunch :) Thanks Ms. Linda!!

After purchasing a Full Throttle I was ready for my next four gorgeous ladies :) Morgan, who's hair I recently took from a dark, dark brown to a nice overall lighter tone with a full high light, was next on my list. A low and elegant side bun, easy but so much fun with her long hair. I prepped by curling with my CHI Orbit. Slightly messy, but still contained to it's shape and pinned to with stand the evenings festivities, she was ready to go!
(She looked gorgeous!)

Satisfied with her hair Morgan was out and Nicole was up! Nicole, having shorter, shoulder length hair, I slightly curled and pinned over to the side and personalized with three flowers :)
(No idea what she's doing here, as usual :)

For the home stretch I helped Brooke and gave her hair, which HATES to do anything related to a curl, some "bend". Her hair is gorgeous on it's own anyways :) And as for Bethany, I just added some gold and deep plum to her eyes to help play up her make up. 
(And of course you can't even see Brooke's hair, to see look below)

The day was long, the girls were a riot, and the finished product was amazing :)

I learned a lot Saturday. I learned that if I put my mind to it I can get anything done, that I'm good at what I do, and oddly enough I like working on a tight time schedule, and knowing things need to be done at a certain time. Not only did I do two color corrections this week, with the help of my mom of course, but I helped 5 girls get ready for prom. And if you don't remember prom is quite possibly the biggest event in their lives thus far. I'm scared for their weddings :( 

I might not know where I want to go, but I know I'm doing the right thing :) Thank you ladies for allowing me to be a part of your big day and night, I hope you all had as much fun as I did! You're all so beautiful, I had only the best to work with :)

Sending love and inspiration your way :) xoxo.







Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Beauty is..

... whatever you make it :)

Hi guys :) So today's post is something that's really been on my mind a lot lately. Everyone keeps asking me what my type is when it comes to guys, and truth is I have no bloody clue! There are days when I'd totally be down for a preppy, Ralph Lauren sporting, polo playing lad. Other days I want a tattooed, guitar playing, sexy car driving stud. I honestly have no freakin' idea. Then I realized this is how everything in my life is, undecided. Then after noticing this ever increasing trend of inability to make a choice and stick with it in my everyday, I thought to myself, why do we need to choose? Why do I need to be a certain way? Reality is, I don't; there isn't some little box I need to put myself in and stamp a label to. Something about this was so liberating. Here I was 20 years old seeing different people and altering myself to fit little bit of themselves. The only good that came out of this was by trying different things, I created something for me. One day I might wanna rock a scarf and pretend I'm Johnny Depp from Pirates, another day I might wanna be really classic and rock a 1940s hairstyle. Some days I wanna hide my tattoos, and some day I purposefully wear no jewelry so you see them. No one is ever going to be completely happy with you, that is life, but knowing that I am me and no matter what I will always have that. Opinions are opinions, you can't live your life for other people, and I think I finally learned that :)

This week Melissa Jaqua and Abe Barron came to my school, look them up they are amazing! Abe cut my hair and it literally changed me. I feel free, and ready to take on anything :)
Love them!

Today I want to celebrate the different styles people have, what makes them unique :) Take a look...
(my work)
"If you're a bird, I'm a bird"

Being in an industry where fashion, style, and how you present yourself, is an important element it becomes hard to make sure you're doing things because it's what you want, and what you feel in your heart. I know what I want, and I know how to bet there, and I'm ready :)

Inspiration is the key :)











Sunday, May 8, 2011

Happy Happy Happy...

... Mothers Day! 

My bestest friend, Alyssa, is a new mother this year. She sometimes wonders what she is getting herself into but she is doing wonderful :) Look at this gorgeous little one she blessed us with...
Ashlyn is super freaking adorable :)

Anyways, my obsession with Stumble Upon has continued and here are some things that inspired me :) Enjoy...

And Happy Mothers Day to my mommy, do not tell me we look alike :)

Inspire someone :)
xoxo.