"Got Heart" Ring

This is my first piece of "everyday wear" jewelery that I actually wear all the time. I bought this Got Heart ring on sale from a little East Village jewelery boutique, on kind of a whim during my winter break. Of course, only Helen could bring me to a place as quintessentially New York as Verameat. She, along with my sister, were integral in my decision. Having worn this ring daily for a few months now, I feel like it was a worthy purchase. This buying nice jewelery for oneself - perhaps a physically small item, but significant in a young woman's life. At least for me, it is a daily reminder of what I'm capable of, my independence to find my own happiness, and the recognition of my own self-worth.

Happy Monday to all.

Stage Fright

I really have nothing to say during the closing hours on the eve of my first day of classes. I'm calm but tired, nervous but hopeful, ready but so not ready. I remember reading Connie's poignant thoughts as she was about to embark on her own journey to law school and I recall being so moved at her fear, longing, and hope. These are emotions that I too now know.

It is so crazy to think that these were her feelings from only about 11 months ago. In less than a year, my little bear has changed so much and, to put it lightly, she has kicked absolute ass (top of her class, Law Review, etc., etc.). If I am but a fraction of the woman she is, I will be living a dream.

"Tomorrow is the beginning of an odyssey that will change my life, and I am feeling very small indeed."

Conmonster

Short White Coat Bound...

"There’s nothing wishy-washy about white. White is the color of yes."
Lois Smith Brady

Acceptance to medical school: one of the largest leaps of faith that I've ever attempted. Thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way; I am forever indebted to you. It was your faith in me, encouragement, and love, that have brought me so, so far. And it's the stuff that will lead me to become everything that I've ever hoped for.

(Quote from the New York Times, top photo by Tabsinth, bottom via weheartit)

On Loving What You Do

Though written by a pregnant and Christian blogger, the message of work hating and loving what you do can be applied universally. How often I catch myself grumbling over the minutiae of my day... I hope to cultivate the courage and the patience to find pleasure in my work, to honor and appreciate those who are working beside me, and to end thoughts of "if only I had...." I want to run forward without looking back.

(Photo via weheartit)

Sometimes

This past weekend has left me humbled and awestruck at the power of a casual weekend away, the generosity of others, and the true and endless depth of friendship. I actually sent this in an email, but I want everyone to know: since that weekend, I've reacquainted myself with convictions that there is more out there for me than the monotony of my current life, that my friends are fucking hilarious, gorgeous, and just such inspiring women, and that hopefully one day soon, I'll be able to be as cool as the rest of them.

Life is sometimes just so filled with joy, no?


(photo source unknown)

Quotability

"...But, in the long run, in the great battle of life, no brilliancy of intellect, no perfection of bodily development, will count when weighed in the balance against that assemblage of virtues, active and passive, of moral qualities, which we group together under the name of character; and if between any two contestants, even in college sport or in college work, the difference in character on the right side is as great as the difference of intellect or strength the other way, it is the character side that will win."

Theodore Roosevelt

Happy Birthday to Jenny, one who overflows with intellect, strength, and character.

(photo of Natalie Wood in NYC by William Claxton, 1961)

In 2011...

I resolve to...

chase after and achieve my dreams instead of just fantasizing about them

stretch every night

be fearlessly positive towards others and myself

floss at least 3 times a week

take on a creative endeavor once a week like cooking, sewing, writing

not be afraid to ask for help or to say no

drink more water

live confidently and joyfully

Though this is about a week late, I've actually been in trial mode for most of my resolutions during December. I can already touch my toes! I think 8 resolutions won't completely overwhelm me; plus 8 is an auspicious number.

I hope this year finds you determined, renewed, and inspired. Here's to a fulfilling 2011!

(poster by francesca, via mary ruffle)