Stress Awareness: Drop the Mic...but don't!

Hello my readers! This is post # 2 in my series of Stress Awareness Month postings. I originally had a different topic in mind but we all know life dictates our decisions. Beginning with last week's introductory post, I plan to explore common ways we stress out and tips, articles, and suggestions to reign victorious!

Now to the title of this post. When you hear the expression "drop the mic", that references making a fierce point that leaves no room for interpretation. You know, you are in a debate and you make such a case that it leaves the other person silent, as in they literally have no comeback. Well, when it comes to public speaking, most people would rather drop the mic and literally run out the door.  It's so bad that it's officially a condition called glossophobia.

So why is this so stress-inducing? This anxiety affects people at different levels, whether you are an extrovert or an introvert.  In some cases, I think it's a fear of being judged/ridiculed, fear of failure, lack of confidence on the topic or with the audience, uncertainty, and/or all of the above.
Now I actually enjoy public speaking.  It's weird because I will be so nervous before I begin but once I do, it's a thrill.  Granted my dream career was broadcast journalism (oh, deferred dreams!) so I've always envisioned myself in front of a camera.  I've also been a tour guide, so I'd say  What helps me conquer the sweat and stomach churns is preparation, practice, and pizazz.  Let's break it down!

• Preparation- I believe in researching your topic to the high heavens!  When you're confident in what you're speaking about, nerves may ruffle you but won't be able to break you down. You've got this.  Jot down your bullet points and use those as a helpful guide (and not a crutch).  Even the most seasoned speakers use an outline and even if they never reference it, it's available.  There is no shame in glancing down at notes or if it's an interactive presentation (PowerPoint), reading from slides.  However, you want to rehearse so that you can find the sweet spot of content, delivery, and connection with your audience.  Which brings me to...

• Practice- We all know the ways from our days of school presentations.  Note cards, in front of a mirror, in front of family, etc.  When you're an adult, sometimes those options aren't always available.  I believe in running through your presentation first on your own, with someone you trust to give you honest and constructive feedback, and then again on your own incorporating the honest and constructive feedback.  Honest and constructive being the key.  You don't want someone to just lie to you to make you feel good nor someone who is so critical that you lose the confidence you just gained from your preparation.  If you have a nervous habit (shaking hands, voice quivering), recognize that and think about ways you can manage these habits.  For voice quivers, you're likely not breathing properly, so rehearse your breathing.  If you look down alot, practice your eye contact at specific points in your presentation.  Just as you practice your content, you should also incorporate how to be relaxed.  The human brain can store a wealth of information and thoughts, it's amazing!

• Pizazz- Find a way to make a presentation uniquely you.  Even in business settings, you can do this.  We are all perfectly different.  Remember, the majority of people feel nervous and the people who are listening can identify and likely trust you as a source! 

Think about the best presentations you've heard, what did you enjoy about them?  What are the strengths?  Public speaking is a skill and I believe we can all learn to find comfort with it.  Even if you manage to avoid it, at some point you'll have to likely talk in a group setting.  It's natural to feel nervous and stress out but let that be the motivation.  If you make a mistake during your presentation, simply address it with a clarifying remark or just move on.  It will take time and practice but in time, you will get better at it.  Just keep your head up and keep trying!

Check out this Mayo Clinic article with excellent tips: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/phobias/expert-answers/fear-of-public-speaking/faq-20058416

Don't stress...live, learn, and live inspired!

Stress Awareness Month- April 2015

Happy April 1st!

April represents many things.  For many of us, it is the gateway to spring.  The weather is warming up, flowers are beginning to blossom, and people are trading the dreary colors for bright and vibrant ensembles.  That all sounds good right?  Well, this time of year can also represent stress.  The pace of work is increasing, the kids are on break / have exams / prom, etc on the horizon, travel prices are steadily rising or you've just been holding in the stresses from winter.  Does this sound like you?  I know it sounds like me.   We're in luck!  April is Stress Awareness Month.

Let's define stress.  According to Merriam-Webster, stress is a state of mental tension and worry caused by problems in your life, work, etc. or  something that causes strong feelings of worry or anxiety.  When I hear people speaking about stress (myself included), it often refers to the first definition--a state of mental tension and worry.  As the graphic above shows, many other negative feelings go right along with stress.

So how do we combat these feelings?  Speaking from my own experience, the first step is to identify the stressors in life and determine how they can be managed.  Notice I didn't say eliminated completely.  Depending on what causes you anxiety, it may not be easily removed but it CAN be managed.  Every week this month, I'm going to focus on some of the most common stress factors and share my thoughts on how to survive and thrive!  I hope you'll follow along with me.

In the meantime, here is a Huffington Post article detailing what stress is NOT.  Interesting read: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/03/stress-myths-busted-misconceptions-causes-symptoms_n_2974643.html

What are your thoughts on stress?  How do you manage?  I would love to read your comments.  You can also connect with me on Twitter (@MsVibrantLady).

Less Attitude, More Gratitude

Hello my dear readers!

Today I found myself beginning to throw a pity party despite my best efforts not to.  I woke up with prayer and positive vibes and what do you know? Before I even began the busiest part of my day, negativity started to creep in.  I shared some of these thoughts with a family member who listened briefly and then asked "What are you doing to better the situation?"  Don't you just love family members and friends who keep you in check? :-)  But it got me thinking on how easy it is to complain and complain while not trying as hard as we can be.  When it comes to the things I was complaining about, I have been trying and patience is half the battle.  However, if I look carefully, I haven't truly been devoting all of my resources and energy to making things better, so ultimately I could be doing a lot more.  There are many things in life that you can't control, require perseverance or are at times unfair.  However, what most motivational speakers and authors will tell you is that you must keep working harder.  It may seem like you have to work so much harder than others and maybe you do, maybe you don't.  In any event, you've got to work to enhance that which you can control!

So what can one do to better a situation?  Every case is different but I think my points below best refer to working towards a goal.

1) Go all in-  It sounds simple and it should be but believe me it's not so easy!  Whether it's the new gig you want, the healthy lifestyle/image you want, or whatever, you truly have to work hard.  I've been reading blogs and articles of people who've attained things that I dream of and the number one thing they had in common?  They were relentless in going for it.  For example, if you want to make a dream your lifestyle, you can't just wish for it or put some energy into it, you've go to go all in!  That may require some creativity but you just have to be willing to work hard and for a long period of time.  Nothing worthwhile comes in a day!

2) Be patient- Whoever said that patience is a virtue was not joking!  Doors close and they remain closed and sometimes it doesn't make sense for a long time, if at all.  Through it all, exercise trust that your good intentions will be rewarded and remain calm.  Brighter days will come!


3) Have gratitude-  Being thankful for what you do have while working towards what you want can be challenging.  However, I believe that appreciation spawns better energy and greater opportunities.  If you sulk and complain daily, you are not only putting out negative vibes but you're likely also stressing and affecting your health negatively. 

I hope this helps!  Remember, it's impossible not to complain or feel bad when things don't go right.  It's natural.  The point is don't stay there!

If At First You Don't Succeed...

Hello my friends!  Bonjour les amis!  Hola/Olá amigos!  I think I covered all of the languages I have knowledge of :-)

First, Happy Mother's Day to all of the loving and nurturing moms out there!  Even without being a mom, I know it has it's challenging moments and today (and everyday) I hope you all feel loved and appreciated.  Much love!

Second, it's been awhile since my last in-depth post but I'm happy to say that things are good with me overall.  It's Sunday and I'm already prepared for tomorrow and the work week to commence.  The weekend contained nice weather and I saw a really interesting (and good) movie, which I will write a brief review of later. Definitely was a cool conversation piece and I hope that it gets recognized during the next film award season. 

So, why the title of this post?  Well, I will shamefully admit that I've been off my game recently.  If you've read my previous posts, particularly the ones near the start of the year, I was totally on a fitness high.  I was working out very regularly and eating well, specifically avoiding fast food, processed sugars, chocolate and other food vices.  Well, fast forward to now and I'm just a little bit out of control.  I've allowed myself to eat junk food at work (the communal kitchen can be dangerous!) and worse yet I've been indulging in gelato, ice cream and homemade milkshakes (not all at once).  I've been making all fruit/spinach smoothies but in the last couple of days deviated to unhealthy ice cream arena.  Somebody stop this rollercoaster!

Wait a minute, I have the power to stop this rollercoaster.  It's easy in life to spiral off course or full blown lose control and feel like it's the end.  Nope, it doesn't have to be.  I'm not proud of my recent indulgences but I recognize that I'm human and therefore liable to make mistakes.  But that doesn't have to be the end.  I can declare that today is the day that I stop playing and pull it back together!  Maybe that means increasing my water intake or surrounding myself with fruit/veggies and and staying away from the kitchen.  Taking a walk when I'm feeling stressed.  Creating a workout schedule and committing to it full throttle.  Whenever you find yourself slipping, think about what made you successful in the first place.  What steps did you take?  What was your attitude?  It's never too late and to quote a line from one of my favorite songs by the late, great Aaliyah...

"...if at first you don't succeed, dust yourself off and try again."

And with that, have a wonderful week.  I'm off to strategize!

Speaking Up: #BringBackOurGirls

 

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As I write, there is a very disturbing and heartbreaking human rights situation taking place in Nigeria. You can Google this story and I've included a few links below. Back in late April (last month), militants stormed a boarding school and abducted over 200 school girls, many of which are still missing today.  There has been much discussion of what their fate is, all of which is devastating.  I can not even begin to imagine the fear, pain, suffering and despair that these young girls are going through and unfortunately, this story is all too common in the world.  It's so easy to turn a blind eye to this issue of trafficking and violence, particularly against women in developing nations.  In fact, when I read the news update on this story, I immediately stopped what I was doing to pray for these young girls and tweet about it. Makes me realize my "problems/stressors" are really quite minuscule.  As global citizens, our biggest power lies in our VOICE and in our ability to raise awareness and advocate for change.  While the situation looks grim, I don't believe that all hope is lost.  Just because these events occur in places thousands of miles away from us does not mean we should not care or show support.  I may not be able to do much but if we can collectively raise awareness to get strategic organizations and media to pay attention, that is power.  I will pray for these girls and for their safe return and reunion to their families.  #BringBackOurGirls



Read more here:
CNN: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/01/world/africa/nigeria-abducted-girls/
BBC: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-27256860  &  http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-27241941

Keep Calm...

Calm (noun)-  a quiet and peaceful state or condition;  a peaceful mental or emotional state (from the Merriam-Webster dictionary)

 

Calm (adjective)- not angry, upset, excited (from the Merriam-Webster dictionary)

 

 

Because sometimes it's just that simple.  No big production or show necessary. When tested by tough situations in life, just keep calm and carry on. Heartbreak, disrespect, rejection, sadness--everyone has been there and you can pull through.  Life goes on and if you live with good intentions, I believe that one day you'll receive all of that love and goodness back.  In light of recent news around the globe, people are in ever need of more healing and love and less panic and stress.  Keep calm and carry on!

As the late (and very great) Nelson Mandela said, "A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."  So stay resilient, classy and calm, my friends!



Y'all know I love music...here's one of my favorites from Ms. India.Arie.  The music in this song is just so soothing and the lyrics are inspirational.  Enjoy!

That Castle Kind of Life

Transition- the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

Right now, I'm currently undergoing a period of transition.  This really is a year of growth and change.  I'm so ready for the new!  Believe me, change isn't always easy but if you never evolve, you always stay the same. And do you really want to look back 5 years from now and see the same version?  Changes can be tough because sometimes you have to let go of unhealthy habits/situations but in the end I definitely think it's worth it.  We all enter a phase in life where we seek clarity, purpose, and foundation in our lives, whether it's with goals, jobs, friendships, or love. 

Let me focus on the love side of things for a minute.  I've been watching one of my favorite YouTube vloggers, Naptural85, and I love the relationship she and her husband have.  They're both young (I'm pretty sure I'm around the same age as them) and have a beautiful daughter but what I love about their dynamic the most is that it's rooted in love.  Yes, this is turning into a relationship post.  I guess it's been on my mind lately!  Friendship has to be the core of any relationship but love and trust (transparency) are the other critical parts as well.  In anything we do, there's gotta be a foundation.  Sand castles are fun but are temporary and get knocked down so easily whereas a castle made of bricks will withstand the stormy weather and is lasting. Everyone is down to help you play with sand, only a select few want to lay down bricks with you.  Remember! The word commitment is scary to some but to me it just means having loyalty and focus and going from there.  Commitment shouldn't mean lockdown!  It's not prison, it should be something you actually want :-)  Looking back, I can see where I was in situations that were bricks and sand or even just straight up sand.  However, the wisdom that I've gained only encourages me that I will build the castle that I'm dreaming of.  All of that comes in time and, as is a theme in many of these posts, you just have to be ready.  You can't be pressured into it and in retrospect I've felt pressure and  possibly even applied the pressure in the past.  Where is this post going? LOL. I'm bringing it back! 



Speaking of castles, here I am in Carcassonne, France.  The castle I'm in front of dates back to Medieval times!

The point of today's post is that life is all about transition and timing.   Everything in its right place and time. I look back on many parts of life and see where perhaps things were just not meant to be even despite my best efforts and deepest dedication.  And that's OK.  Sometimes you don't know what you've got until it's gone and sometimes you don't know how you'll grow until you move on!  Let it go.  It's all about embracing the journey and living with love, integrity, and honesty.  When there are no questions about your intentions, the answers are always clear.  That applies to all areas of our lives.  Stay positive!

Evolve by Mya- I love this song!

Back Up Plans, Not Friends

In life, we are taught to plan.  We're also taught to have a back up plan in case the original or ideal plan doesn't work out.  Some people apply that approach to people.  I disagree with this.  Unlike a travel itinerary or a work plan, people are special creatures with feelings and emotions.  When it comes to people, it's just not right or kind to treat people like they're just filler and disposable if your plan A doesn't goes as planned.

I'm coming to realize that there are some people in my own life who regard me as a back up plan.  I'm only contacted when there's a free moment in between their other planned gigs.  They only seem to want to hang out when other friends are busy or if they need someone to hang out or talk  with until their other friends become available.  Never any original invitations and quick to cancel if their preferred plans come through.  I will be honest that it's really hurtful. Like almost makes me want to cry hurtful.  However, it encompasses lessons that are vital to growth and wisdom in life.  First, it's not you, it's them. Remember that. People who in essence use other people are just not kind individuals.  Second, once their true colors are revealed and you realize this, you have to decide what to do about it.  I firmly believe in the quote "What you allow is what will continue."  We don't have to be victims or throw pity parties.  We also don't have to seek revenge.  The best way to stand up for yourself is to actually stand up for yourself.  Show people that you will NOT be a back up plan.  If they can't find time or desire to make or keep plans with you, then they don't deserve your time or energy either. People who genuinely care about you will find time and ways to show it. We're all busy and the commitment can mean different things but it's the commitment to maintaining the friendship that matters.   The other thing you have to do is forgive.  It's easy to be angry or sad but you've got to release it because anger only hurts you not them.  Keep in mind every situation is different but these are general principles that can be applied.

So back to me, today I conclude my day not with sadness but with clear perspective and forgiveness.  I exhale negative energy from my life and inhale sincerity, positivity and love back in.

Happy30: Day 4

It's Friday!!!!  So I'll keep this brief.  Ever meet people who just seem to radiate positive energy?  Well, I have!  This person always managing to maintain a joyful demeanor even when they have a million things happening. Graduate study, a family, work--can you say multitasker?  But somehow through all of the stress or challenges that those things individually or collectively can bring, this person doesn't lose their light-hearted, energetic and fun nature.  So awesome and inspirational!  No matter what we have to balance in life, it can be done and doesn't have to be horrible!  I want to do more than just appreciate what I have, I want to just enjoy my circumstances.  It's a journey that will have ups and downs but the goal is a cheerful disposition throughout it all.  After all, the energy you put out is what you get back in return, so which vibes do you want?  I am team positive all the way!

Happy Friday...xoxo

Breakaway

"If you don't like something, change it.  If you can't change it, change your attitude." -Maya Angelou

As I continue to grow and get older in life, I’ve been feeling this feeling that I just want to do more.  I’m realizing more of my passions- world travel, fitness, and writing but I want to do more than fulfill my own life’s pleasure.  I have many talents (and this is not a statement out of conceit- rather confidence in and thankfulness for the abilities God has given) and I want to use those to help and uplift others in a more direct way.  But even when you have a vision, the opportunity is not always there.  What if you want to live a life of simplicity but the complexities of life won't let you?  What do you do during those times?  Well for me, it’s prayer for not only the opportunity to come but also the wisdom to recognize it and make smart decisions.  It’s also patience and optimism even when I feel like I want to give up.  Believe me, it’s not easy, as I’m currently going through this phase in a couple areas of my life now. As I type.  But what helps me is to think about what complaining does versus what being hopeful does.  Complaining brings about stress which leads to a host of health issues and a general negative outlook.  Being hopeful, on the other hand, allows you to go through life appreciating the good things that ARE happening and feeling a bit more inspired.

So to follow Ms. Angelou’s wise words, today I choose a positive attitude even in the moments where I feel like walking away and giving up on certain situations.  Despite the fact that I can't instantly change the aspects that are frustrating.  Every day may not be perfect but every moment that we are alive and able to is.  Remember that! :-)

As a pick me up, I continually jam out to Pharrell’s “Happy” video.  If you're a regular reader, I hope you're not tired of it :-)  Here’s one of my favorite global versions of this amazing song from one of my favorite cities: PARIS! Smile

Spring + Happiness Day

Hello!  It's been awhile since my last post because I was away.  Where, you ask?  Why only Barcelona and the French Riviera!  More on that in future postings.  For now, I want to focus on today- March 20.  A truly epic day.  First (and foremost), it is the Vernal Equinox also known as spring.  Whether you love springtime or were just turned off by winter, today was a welcome change for everyone!  In my city, it was sunny and mild, a nice touch to the changing of the seasons.  I know there's a cold blast with snow in the forecast but I refuse to think about it.  Must. only. focus. on. sunshine.  I'm just excited that days have begun getting longer, brighter colors, flowers in bloom and no longer needing heavy wool overcoats.

The second reason March 20 was so awesome was that it was International Happiness Day #happyday 2014!  Now I was already excited because of the nice weather for spring's introduction and the fact that the NCAA March Madness tournament got underway.  But a dedicated day to happiness?  Awesome!  Besides jamming to Pharrell's "Happy" on repeat (I swear that should be a global theme song), I decided to reflect on the great opportunities I've had recently as well as the dreams of the future.  I feel happy when I workout or dance, when I travel, and when I can have good times with family and friends.  A simple list but the best things in life don't have a price tag.  The key is to just enjoy what you have.  Aspirations and goals are great but you've gotta just release, breathe and embrace.  Sure those things won't pay the bills but they sure will improve your quality of life :-)

Do you like spring?  What are your favorite activities during this season?  What makes you feel happy?

The Cinderella Story

I am writing this on a snowy, icy morning that has left almost all school districts and governments closed. It's March 3rd, winter, it's time for you to gracefully bow out and allow spring to make her proper entry.  At this point, everyone around here is generally over it!  Log on to Twitter for all the many hashtags (#SNOverit is one of my favorites).  Anyway, knowing that I didn't have to wake up as early for work commute allowed me to watch the 86th Academy Awards (#Oscars2014).  Normally, I don't watch the show, just certain categories because it's typically boring.  With Ellen DeGeneres hosting and knowing that Pharrell would sing my favorite song "Happy", I just had to watch!  Overall, I thought the show was good, albeit long, with lots of wonderful fashion  and heartfelt acceptance speeches.

Gorgeous in Prada!  Lovely Lupita, our Cinderella!

On the subject of heartfelt speeches, what about Lupita Nyong'o?!  Our Academy Award winner for Best Actress is a Supporting Role for her performance in "12 Years a Slave."  She is just class personified.  And while the majority of people show her love (which I love!), I'm sure she has the usual detractors who think her rise is all "hype".  Well, as you can already tell, I totally disagree! People often think that a Cinderella story is a fairy tale but if you recall, Cinderella went through a lot of turmoil before that chance encounter which transformed her life into a fairytale.  So even though stories have a wonderful ending, there's often a struggle to get to that point.  When I look at my own life, I know that if I were to reach a very high point, the peak if you will, it will NOT be without the struggle.  Rejection, failed attempts, loss of self-esteem at times, you name it!  But all of those hard times will make it that much sweeter.  Lupita's story is so inspiring to me as a whole and I love that she's remained humble, sincere, and graceful.  Her story doesn't end with the Academy Award and all of acclaim, that's just an affirmation of all the work and struggles she faced.  Her talent, perseverance, and pursuit of her dream led to this moment.  So let her shine!  For it is well-deserved!  To quote Lupita's speech "No matter where you are from, your dreams are valid."  That's right!  Circumstance doesn't have to determine your ultimate outcome.  Keep aspiring!

The dapper Mr. McConaughey!

My other favorite heartfelt speech came from Mr. Matthew McConaughey, winner of the Best Actor award for his performance in "Dallas Buyers Club".  Now Matthew was Matthew and it was totally awesome to see.  My highlight from his speech was when he named his 3 things to strive for:

• Something to look up to
• Something to come home to
• Something to chase after

What a great approach!  Everyone should have someone/thing that they draw inspiration from while on a quest.  You also need support, so family, love, and friendship will keep you grounded during the highs and lows.  That's what you should come home to.  Something to chase after, attainable goals and then more attainable goals!  You're not weak to lay roots down.  In fact, that makes you stronger and able to soar higher! I'll definitely be adopting this approach as I live life, go on new adventures, welcome new people and opportunities to my life.    All in all, an inspiring night.  Thank you, Academy!

MARCHing onward

Today is March 1st!  On the one hand, I want to marvel at how fast time flies.  On the other hand, with the way this winter has been, I'm SO glad to see March arrive.  It means we are that much closer to springtime! Sunshine and warmer temperatures.  Yay!  Thus far, 2014 has been off to a pretty good start.  I've been able to get a solid handle on my fitness and wellness journey.  It hasn't been perfect but what in life is? It was taking that initial step and then the additional steps that will ultimately help me reach my overall goal.  The biggest change has been my outlook.  Outlook and attitude really do play a large part in how things go.  Kind of like the whole glass half-full versus half-empty.  Like I posted on Instagram recently, I just want to go on adventures, be around good people, and set, achieve, and create new goals.  Yes, I hope for career advancement and to start a family but for now, I just want to travel and experience the world, smile joyfully, live happily, and just enjoy the moment.  Plans are great but life proves that you have to be flexible as nothing is certain (and that's not always a negative). So begins the march onward and upward!  Wherever you are, join me on this optimistic ride.  Glass is half-full and can always be replenished :-)

P.S.  Only 3 months until summer. So if you're through with winter, press on.  With the summer also brings the FIFA World Cup.  Yes!!!  Where are all my football (soccer) lovers?  I've been counting down since 2010 :)

Who doesn't LOVE this song?!  One of the coolest songs I've heard in a long time. 

My theme song for sure! "Clap along if you know that happiness is the truth!"

Ici c’est Paris- Dec 2013

World Crush Alert!

 

Ici c’est Paris! Besides being the slogan I see in the stadium for football club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), this is also how one would feel upon landing in Paris.  Here is Paris! So, on last year’s European getaway, I spent the most time in Paris. Here’s a taste of my Parisian experience.

Let me begin by saying that though I was an American in Paris, I studied French for about 3 years between junior and senior high, so I knew I had bare minimum comprehension and vocab. But it’s a different story when you are in the moment and your sentences are choppy or you don’t quite know the word/phrase to say.  Fortunately, the Parisians I encountered were nice!  Yes, really they were! Personally, I think it's misunderstanding between Americans and the French.  Like many European countries, France is more formal where America is more casual.  Anyway, here's a tip: if you know nothing else, please greet anyone you’re speaking to with Bonjour/Bonsoir. Thank them by saying “Merci” and if you’re in desperate need of a translation ask “Parlez-vous Anglais?”. You should really try to learn more than that (there are tons of phrasebooks out there) but if not, at least know that much. Trust me. Another sidebar:  My fellow Americans, please be patient with our fellow international tourists because when the shoe is on the other foot, you will be wanting that good and kindness karma!

Anyway, I stayed in a suburb of Paris, right by Disneyland. Before you wonder, I didn’t actually go to Disneyland. I was only there 2 days in Paris and had to try and fit in the Louvre, Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower), Notre Dame, Versailles, and of course a walk down Champs Elysee and shopping. Fashionista or not, you’ve gotta shop in Paris. It’s just a must. So, no time for Disneyland but hopefully next the time.  Oh yes, as I'm finding in all cities, I really like train rides.  Here are some pics:



External view

Station guide

Electronic display

Train selfie!

One of the few trains I saw that wasn't full (and I wasn't on)!

Below are some images from my tourist sights:

The Louvre- I’ve have firsthand museum work experience and still consider myself a museum-head. Let me tell you, the Louvre is another level! Even if you’re not into art or history, the vast collections within the Louvre just might change that for you.  I have a million photos from the collections but here is an exterior shot.  I love architecture!  If you want to hear more about the Louvre, just let me know :-)

Arc de Triomphe- This arch is iconic! Must take photo!

Avenue des Champs-Élysées- Every major internationally known fashion designer you can think of has a spot on the Champs-Élysées!

 

 

Tour Eiffel- Now you know full well that if you were to see nothing in Paris at all, you must see the Eiffel Tower! Interesting thing is that you can’t actually photograph it in its entirety while standing in front of it. I’m not sharing my secret spot but not far away, you can view the whole thing :-)

 

Dejeuner- Lunch! You need energy for all this sightseeing. Energy of the delicious variety :-) Don’t forget une boisson chaude (a hot beverage)!

 

Notre Dame + Seine River- Simply majestic, particularly after sunset.

Versailles- I could write a whole blog on Versailles but I was literally speechless at the sheer beauty and magnitude...in fact I WILL save that for a future blog.  Stay tuned!

Overall, I had a blast in sweet Paris! It was a bit cold, winter after all, but I was feeling the vibe of the city. It's a huge city, so the hustle and bustle was real but just study your French and go in with an open mind. No pre-conceived notions!  For my next go around, I’d love to really experience the city in spring or summer as well as feel the vibe of the night life. The trains were very similar to rush hour in USA’s big cities, which I could’ve done without :-) But wait, I did get to go to une supermarche (grocery store) and I even used a self-checkout. Yep, living the life already! Ha! Look below for a few snapshots…

   

Paris is known as the city of love, where maybe even an innocent, flirty encounter might occur. What was my experience? A lady never tells… ;-) Let’s just say, I’m definitely practicing my French and I definitely see Paris (and really France, overall) back in my future travels. Near future, perhaps?  Time will tell...

As always, if you like what you're reading, leave it in a comment :-)

Saturday Night Vibes

So it's Saturday night and I'm not at a lounge or a club!  Now, if you know me, that's totally NOT a surprise.  Haha, you could say I'm more of the low-key, just chill type.  While that is my general vibe, it's also winter.  Somehow getting dolled up just seems easier when it's warmer.  Plus I just love daylight, so spring and summer tend to be the times when I'm game for more of the evening/night-ish life.  But I can't be the only one right?  I feel like social media is deceptive (well actually it's completely deceptive) because people only tend to post when they're shining or having a really great time.  At least that's my approach and those of my friends/followers/etc on these networks.  My guess is there are more people actually just relaxing and staying IN versus going out.  Just a hunch!  Now, I know many of my connects are married or parents now, so there isn't really that desire to party like before.  But what about the single peeps like me?  Am I the only one in relax mode?
 
Well, even if I am, it's fine by me.  Last year, I started reading "Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass" by Mandy Hale and it's been eye-opening.  Known as "The Single Woman", Hale's book is such a well-crafted message about self-love.  A lot of single-girl books tend to try to give you tips on how to get a new guy or even straight up male bash.  Not this book!  It's totally about loving and improving yourself and NOT worrying about finding the next guy/future boyfriend/husband, etc. and I dig that 100%.  As I mentioned, I am single and it's not a negative.  You need to love and appreciate your own company before anyone else will.  A guy doesn't define me anymore than a job or a car or any material possession would.  I'm all about that self-loving, happy and healthy life!  I strongly encourage all women to read it since getting over breakups (even if you initiated it) are tough.  There's light at the end of the tunnel and just like your story isn't defined by a relationship, that's not the end either.
 
So how am I feeling?  Great!  I've been working on that healthier me.  I've been eating better (no chocolate, pity party binges over here), working out (the best way to clear your head), taking up new interests (studying French almost daily now!) and most importantly, being more positive and loving the things that make me...ME!  Just because people don't see your bright qualities doesn't mean they don't exist.  Duh!  So, shine bright for you!  This is not about karma or making somebody regret what they lost by not cherishing you.  Their loss is YOUR gain for the future and as my girl Natasha Bedingfield so beautifully sings "the rest is still unwritten."  So chin up and if you're flying solo at home on this Saturday, rest assured, you're not the only one! 
 

Natasha Bedingfield- Single (from the album "Unwritten")

 
P.S.  If you're liking what you're reading or have any feedback, comments are welcome :-)

The River Flows...Does Your Spirit?

Today, I went on a guided tour of a historic local river. As I floated by, the tranquility and beauty of wildlife creatures in their habitat was astounding. However, when I took my eyes off of the movement and existence of the herring on a marsh or the fish and turtles within the river, I suddenly became sad and angry. You see, the river is not a beautiful, clear blue as you normally think of rivers. Instead, it was a murky, brownish color. This is not the result of nature wrongdoing, it is the result of human abuse. As I sailed along the river, I saw fish and I also saw plastic bottles. What a disgusting mix and destruction of THEIR habitat.

This got me thinking. How many times do we left other humans or situations disrupt our habitat? We are who we are and our flaws make us unique. Unlike creatures of the land and sea, we can control what negativity we allow into our lives. Yes, we all have down days (I've had one which has prompted me to write this evening) where we self-deprecate but to let other people do it? That will not do! We can all take a lesson from natural wildlife to survive in the midst of ugly situations. We have more power and free will over our lives, so exercise it!

Do not let others steal your joy or your confidence. If somebody can't build you up, then they are tearing you down. Don't be afraid to cut people back because you DESERVE to have the best people in your corner. Remember: "When we seek to discover the best in others, we somehow bring out the best in ourselves." -William Arthur Ward

Great website for positive thinking: http://www.livingwordsofwisdom.com/dont-let-anyone-steal-your.html