Finals Week...

Finals... Just writing out that word gives me a little bit of anxiety. For as long as I can remember I have always gotten nervous and anxious when it comes to taking tests of any kind, especially finals. But why? It is probably the fact that I care almost too much about my grades, so when a test or exam is even slightly important to my grade or my future I freak out. I feel overwhelmed by the pressure to ace my exam.

It still amazes me that I am so hung up over my grades. Typically students are heavily grade conscious when their parents demand or expect only straight A's from their child. But my parents were never like that. I mean yes, they expect me to do my best and to not slack off. But in no way do they expect me to get straight A's or put that kind of pressure on me. My mom always said, "As long as you are trying and are doing your very best, that is all that matters. If your best is a C, then that is your best". Even though my parents are very understanding when it comes to grades I still manage to get anxious when it comes to exams.

I am clearly no expert in being calm and collected while taking an exam, however I have come across a few things that definitely help me. The first and most important thing is to BREATHE. It seems stupid, I know, especially since we are all breathing all the time. But taking a second or two to just sit and inhale for 4 seconds, hold it for 4 seconds and then slowly exhale for 8 seconds helps calm your body. I tend to do this breathing exercise two or three times as my teacher/professor begins passing out the exam and while I first look through the exam. Secondly, HAVE HOPE. Constantly tell yourself that you are going to do well. You are going to do amazing because you are amazing. Imagine the little engine in The Little Engine That Could, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can, I know I can, I know I can, I can!" I have to tell myself that I can do it over and over again, just like the little engine had to. Throughout my entire exam I continuously remind myself that I can do it. The last thing that I do to help with my test anxiety is to remind myself that THIS EXAM DOES NOT DEFINE ME. I used to tell myself over and over that I am going to fail this test and, as a result, every aspect of my life will turn to shambles.. I know, kind of melodramatic. But I honestly was afraid that if I didn't get an A my life was going to be ruined. But I am not stupid. I am not dumb. I am not going to have a horrible life just because I may not do well on this test.

Google Images

Well, speaking of finals, I should probably go continue to study. To those who are taking or preparing to take their finals, good luck and remember to breathe, have hope, and most importantly, remember that this exam does not define you.

Oh and may the curve be ever in your favor.  :)

Love Always,

xo

Noelle

Banana Ice Cream!!

I don't know about you but I have a huge sweet tooth. One of my biggest weaknesses is ice cream. Not only is it not very healthy but being lactose intolerant, I really shouldn't consume it.. However, as a result of Halloween BOOt Camp, I found probably the best alternative.

BANANA ICE CREAM!! :D

I am actually very excited about this stuff because it's healthy, tasty and incredibly easy! Banana ice cream is literally just that, bananas. That's it! No added sugar, no yogurt, no milk, nothing but bananas. I'm not much of a baker or cooker, I'm pretty challenged when it comes to the kitchen, but this recipe is impossible to mess up.

Ingredients:

Google Images

- 4+ Very Ripe Bananas

Process:

- Slice bananas

- Place banana slices into a Ziploc bag

- Put in freezer until frozen (may only take a few hours, but we kept them in there for a day)

- Take bag out of freezer and put banana chunks into a blender

- Blend until smooth*

- Place in a container and put in freezer

- After a few hours it should be solid enough to eat! Enjoy :)

* At this time you can add any flavoring you may want. Some of the flavors I have found on Pinterest are honey, peanut butter, cocoa powder, strawberries (frozen), and chocolate chips.

When my roommate and I made our banana ice cream we added two spoonfuls of peanut butter and it was delicious! It is actually quite amazing how much it tastes like ice cream.

Hope you enjoy your banana ice cream!

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Halloween Boot Camp

It honestly blows my mind that it is already October.. Where has time gone? Since it is October, it is time to start indulging in all sorts of fall activities. Such as, drinking hot chocolate, wearing boots and scarfs, cuddling up in blanks while watching a movie, eat lots of candy because Halloween is at the end of the month, etc. However, my October is going to look a little different. I will still break out my scarfs, sweaters, and boots; but I will also be breaking out my tennis shoes and workout clothes.

Since Halloween is quickly approaching, I felt like now is as good a time as ever to finally get some things in my life in order. And what better motivation than Halloween? My costume this year is slightly more revealing than my long princess dresses from past years, and with that being said, I want to feel comfortable and confident in what it is that I am wearing. With the help of my roommates I am starting Halloween BOOt Camp (get it?): eating healthier, working out more, and learning to all around live a healthy life.

In the past I have tried to lose weight or get fitter and leaner, but I went about it all the wrong way. I got hung up on calories. I didn't try to be healthy, I just wanted to be skinny. Instead of motivating myself with quotes saying, "Your legs aren't giving out, your head is giving up." I would try to motivate myself with pictures of skinny girls, who had the kind of bodies I desired so badly. Thigh gaps, hip bones, flat stomach, slim legs... It consumed my every thought. My self-worth came from numbers on a scale and numbers on food labels and I was very unhappy.

However, this time I am changing things up. No more counting calories. No more scales. No pictures of extremely skinny girls. I am going to eat healthy foods in the right portion amounts, work out as much as I am able to, and motivate myself with quotes and sayings rather than skinny girls. I am going to measure my success by how clothing fits me and by how I feel. I know weighing yourself  isn't bad and is apart of the weight loss process, but I am too afraid to go down that dark path if I were to begin to weigh myself again.

For Halloween BOOt Camp, I am going to work on eating healthier. I am definitely a fan of all things sweet and sugary, so as you can imagine Halloween is one of my favorite times of the year. But I want to stay strong and not let any little cravings get the better of me. When it comes to living a healthy life, working out is honestly the first thing that comes to my mind. I didn't work out too often last year and I was not happy with that little Freshmen 15... So now I am easing into working out almost every day. We (my roommate and I) switch off everyday between doing a cardio workout and doing some sort of strength training workout. Is it weird that I kind of enjoy feeling sore after a workout?

I am hoping to have some recipes, workout ideas, and other fun fitness related posts to come. In the mean time here are some of my favorite motivational fitness quotes. I may or may not have a Pinterest board devoted to them.. :)

Motivational Fitness Quotes:

Google Images

"I don't want another girl's body. I want my body, but leaner, stronger and healthier."

"Go ahead tell me that I'm not good enough, tell me I can't do it, because I will show you over and over again that I CAN!"

"I will NOT starve for this, but I will work hard for this. It may take longer doing it the healthy and right way. But it will last longer this way. It will be better. And I will be happy. Happy and Beautiful."

"You've always been beautiful. Now you're just deciding to be healthier, fitter, faster and stronger. Remember that."

"No matter how many mistakes you make or how slow you progress you are still way ahead of everyone who isn't trying."

Love Always,

xo Noelle

New And Improved

I don't know about you but I am constantly jealous of other people. So often I wish I had what other people possess, like her cool phone, his nice job, her cute clothes, and the list goes on and on. Jealousy isn't something I'm proud of, but it is something we all feel. And if you try telling me you NEVER get jealous of ANYTHING or ANYONE, then you are simply lying to me and yourself.

But for me it isn't just physical items that I envy, I admire other people's drive and passion. Seeing other people accomplish tasks, reach their goals, or live their dreams is something I constantly wish I could do. But the thing is I CAN do those things. I CAN reach my goals. I CAN accomplish anything. However my laziness gets the best of me more than I'd like to admit. But not anymore.

Yesterday I was looking through Instagram and I saw a few of my friend's pictures showing their progress with their weight loss and their journey to being healthier. I sat there and thought, Wow, I wish I could do that. And then it hit me that I can do that. I CAN eat healthy. I CAN workout. I CAN live a healthy life.

I am so sick of putting things off because they seem too hard, or because I'm just too tired or lazy. I am tired of making excuses for why I can never finish anything. I am so good at planning things and creating check lists and putting good intentions into things but I fail every time it comes to the following through and executing my plans. But not anymore.

Yesterday was the beginning of an amazing journey to a new and improved me. I worked out with one of my roommates and came back to our apartment and ate a super taste and pretty healthy meal for dinner. I felt amazing, not only as a result of working out and eating well, but the fact that I did it.

I truly believe that I am the reason I struggle to accomplish things. I tell myself all the time that I can't do things, or that I'm tired and should just start tomorrow. I have never really believed in myself and that isn't something that can easily change overnight, but it is something I am trying to work on. 

A wave of fear and doubt just flooded through me, and I am already telling myself that I can't do this. I will never look like that. I will forget to workout so what's the point. It's too expensive to eat healthy, you can't afford it, just give up. You're too tired to follow through with all your plans. Just sit around all day and waste your time on your computer. Netflix, Youtube, Facebook, they are way more fun than what you have planned.

Becoming the new and improved me is not going to be easy, it will definitely be a struggle, but I don't want to give up anymore. I don't want to end things before they ever really start. Instead I need to remind myself that I CAN do it. And I WILL do it. Who cares what others say or what my thoughts try to tell me. I am going to change my life for the best, and I won't let ANYTHING stand in my way.

So here is to this crazy journey towards becoming healthier, reaching goals and becoming new and improved.

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Back To School Special: Part 3

Google Images

Hey incoming college freshmen, this one's for you.

I am officially all moved into my college apartment and am reunited with my roommates! It feels so good to be back and see all my friends again. Since I am back at college and I mentioned that this post will include some tips for surviving school, I thought it would be fun to interview my roommates and see what advice they have besides just sharing my advice.

(My roommates and I are all sitting in the living room and I haven't asked them if they'd want to do this or not yet... Here goes nothing.)

How did your first day of college go?

Jill: "Since I walked my schedule the day before I found it really easy to find my classes. I found it was really similar to high school. The professors hand out a lot of syllabi, we did introductions, class expectations and other things like that."

Ginny: "Hmmm.. It was terrifying at first. I was more nervous to go to class than I was going to the social events. Being surrounded by my peers and meeting my professors was nerve racking. But I was surprised, by the end of the day, at how easy it was to adjust to the college lifestyle. "

Sam: "It went good. I found my classes okay because I went a day ahead and found my classes. I didn't find any of this nerve racking. It just reminded me of high school. Our college is so small that it basically just reminded me of high school classes."

Noelle: "I honestly don't know if it was more nerves or excitement on my first day. Probably a good mix of both. Like the other said, I walked around the day before classes started to get more familiar with where my classes are and that really helped my first day go a lot smoother. Otherwise it went well. You don't get a lot, if any, homework the first day so after I was done with my classes I just went to my dorm and watched Netflix."

Where you nervous to live away from home?

Jill: "A little bit. But I was too excited to be nervous."

Ginny: "The summer before my freshman year I was really excited. It wasn't until my parents left that I started to get really nervous. Even my sophomore year was kind of the same way. I think change is always one of those things that is nerve racking even if it's not bad."

Sam: "I was actually more eager to get out of my house. You're able to make more of your own decisions."

Noelle: "Not really. I thought I was going to be more nervous but I really wasn't. I was excited to be in a dorm and live at college and to see what this new adventure had to offer."

What should I do if I don't know anyone at my college?

Jill: "If you are too shy or scared to join clubs, making friends with people in your dorm is a good option. If you make friends with them then they live near by and it is easier to hang out with them."

Ginny: "Luckily for me I knew my roommate, but as cliche as it sounds you really do need to get out of your dorm and meet people. Also you don't need to be friends with the first people you meet. You'll meet more people along the way."

Sam: "What I would do, like Ginny said, join clubs that catch your interest. I met you guys [Jill, Ginny, and Noelle] through bowling club. The friends you meet in college last longer than the friends you had in high school."

Noelle: "Unlike the other girls, I can totally relate to this question. I didn't know a single person at my college and that was probably the thing I was the most scared and nervous about when coming to college. From personal experience, just try to get to know other people in your dorm, talk to the people you sit by in classes, and try to get involved in different things on campus."

Is getting involved in activities and organizations on campus really as important as everyone says?

Jill: "I think you should try to find at least one thing that you can belong to or be involved with to help keep yourself busy."

Ginny: "If it's something you want to do, do it. If it's not then don't do it. Don't join a club just to join a club, if you don't enjoy it."

Sam: "Basically they are saying that so you are meeting more people and hopefully making more friends. And they are saying that so you hopefully don't get as homesick."

Noelle: "I think so. Like Ginny said, don't join something just to join it. If you join things that you enjoy then you will meet other people that also enjoy it. It is a great way to meet other people and make friends, especially if you don't know anyone at your school."

Should I bring everything I own to college?

Jill: "No. Make sure you bring things that you will actually use. Last year I brought two photo albums that I never even looked at. Bringing extra coats, gloves, hats and mittens is always a good idea because you never know when you might leave your favorite hat in the dining hall and lose it forever."

Ginny: "I had the opposite problem than most people have with packing for college. I didn't bring enough stuff. But I say if you do find that you have more than you need, just pack it away and bring it back with you the next time you go home."

Sam: "No. You are giving a limited amount of space and storage so you won't want to bring everything you own. Bring the stuff that you would actually use and just a few decorative posters or decorations."

Noelle: "No. I brought a lot of stuff to college and then almost had a panic attack when I first walked into my dorm and saw how small it was. Honestly bring the things you really need or will actually use and if you forgot something you can always run to Walmart or Target. And if you end up having too much stuff just store it somewhere until you go home next."

What is it like to live in a dorm? Is it hard living with a roommate?

Jill: "No, I think if you guys can get along and set expectations that both of you can follow. Like, taking turns to take out the trash or no visitors after 11pm. Living in a dorm is very cramped. Make sure you have a bathrobe if you don't live in a suite because you never know who might be in the hallway when you are getting done with your shower."

Ginny: "Luckily for me, again, I got along with my roommate just fine. And it was respecting boundaries that made it so easy to live with another person. As far as living in a dorm, it's not glamorous in the slightest. It's cramped and the bathrooms are gross, but it is all part of the college experience."

Sam: "It wasn't really [hard living with a roommate] because I already knew my roommate. [Living in a dorm] was okay, I mean it served its purpose."

Noelle: "I actually really liked living in a dorm. I enjoyed being really close to everything, especially in the middle of winter. I didn't find it hard at all living with a roommate. We got a long really well and respected each other, our space, and our things. We never became best friends or anything but we got a long and were able to live with each other. And that's really all that matters."

What advice do you have for incoming freshman?

Jill: "Don't worry if you don't make friends or close friends the first week. It may seem like everyone already has their best friends but yours will come along eventually."

Ginny: "Stay open-minded and accept things as they happen. Don't stress out about them too much and take responsibility."

Sam: "Study and make sure you get stuff done on time. Procrastination is NOT a good idea."

Noelle: "Sleep is so important! I never really had to worry about making sure I got enough sleep before college. But once I was at college, especially towards the end of the year I learned just how important sleep is and how important it is to get enough sleep. There was one day when I stayed up until 7:30am to do a project and then woke up at 8:30am to finish it. I ended up getting physically ill and it was so incredibly awful. So my advice is, don't forget to sleep!"

Did your freshman year go as expected?

Jill: "For the most part. I made friends that I didn't expect to have and I had classes that I didn't anticipate requiring me to do the things I had to. But overall, I feel like it was a pretty normal college experience."

Ginny: "Media made it seem like it was going to be a lot more social than anything. It was a lot more balancing school/work, socializing, and sleep than I had ever had to do before."

Sam: "Well, I didn't realize how much free time I had. I thought I was going to just be doing classwork 24/7. I was actually surprised how easy my first year of classes were."

Noelle: "I guess so. I feel like I fantasized it being a super amazing college experience where nothing ever goes wrong, but obviously that wasn't going to happen. I knew to not expect my roommate and I to be best friends which was probably good because we aren't, but the fact that we never got extremely close opened up the ability to meet other people who are now my best friends. I guess I wasn't expecting to learn so much about myself. You definitely learn a lot of life lessons, some the easy way but a lot of them the hard way. Overall, it was an amazing year and I wouldn't change a second of it." 

Hopefully these tips and advice will help you get ready for college and not be as nervous.

If you're in college already what tips or advice do you have for incoming college freshmen?

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Back To School Special: Part 2

As the new school year approaches, it is time to restock on all of your school supplies. I personally really enjoy buying new notebooks, pencils, pens, and folders. But instead of just having plain old boring pencils and notebooks, here are some fun ideas to jazz up your school supplies.

I am definitely no expert in DIY or crafts. Therefore I am going to share with you some youtube videos that I look to for inspiration. 

Bethany Mota aka Macbarbie07 is a YouTube Beauty Guru with more than 7 million subscribers. I personally love here peppy, fun, and very goofy personality. Beth brings so many great new ideas to school supplies and organization. My favorites are the chalkboard and whiteboard notebooks. Such a cute and unique way to decorate otherwise plain notebooks. I will definitely have to try some of these notebook ideas! But first I should probably buy some notebooks... Oops.

MayBaby, Meg DeAngelis, is a YouTube beauty guru on the rise. I love this DIY school supplies video because unlike Bethany Mota's video which was a lot more advanced and complex, Meg's video shows just how easy it can be to decorate your notebooks and pencils. I feel like this video is definitely for those who aren't extremely crafty and not DIY professionals... aka me! Often I feel intimidated or scared to try or attempt DIY projects because I am worried that I might mess it up or ruin it. But with this video I feel like I could do these ideas no problem. 

I am so obsessed with this video!! Remi Ashten did such an amazing job on this video! For this post I really wanted to look and try to find DIY school supplies videos with really cool and unique ideas. This video is by far my favorite back-to-school video I have EVER seen. Having watched my fair share of videos today, nearly 80% of the videos involved the same or very similar ideas. However, this video stood out because it wasn't about decorating notebooks, binders and pencils, it was all about backpacks. I absolutely love all three of these backpack ideas and I hope you do too. I honestly never even thought about decorating and personalizing a backpack and now I really want to make one of these.

Well I don't know about you but I got so many great ideas to decorate and personalize my school supplies. Now I just need to go and buy school supplies... 

If you enjoyed any of these ideas go check out more by these amazing girls on their YouTube channels! :)

Bethany Mota: Macbarbie07

Meg DeAngelis: MayBaby

Remi Ashten: MissRemiAshten

Which DIY idea was your favorite?

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Back To School Special: Part 1

Why does summer always vanish in the blink of an eye, yet the school year never seems to end? I am sure many of you are aware it is that time of year again when we start to prepare ourselves to go back to school. I haven't quite begun this process yet, I leave Thursday and I don't have much packed. Oops. 

For the next few posts I thought it might be fun to do a combination of a few different things. I love reading blogs and watching videos showing ways to make going back to school fun and I hope to bring some of that to my blog. From first day of school outfits to school supplies ideas. I will also share some tips and advice to make the most out of your school year. 

Alright, so first things first. Here are some great first day of school outfit ideas I put together. I am kind of in love with them. Since I am a girl, I don't know much about guys fashion, and as much as I would love to pick out some things I think a guy might like I think it is best if I stick to just girl stuff. So girls, let's get to it!

~FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL OUTFITS~

For The Girly Girl

Dress: $29.94 Booties: $36.94
Cardigan: $36.94 (Online Only)

I love this outfit for a few reasons. The first reason is because it is relatively cheap. I look at blogs and videos often for outfit ideas but they always seem to be expensive and from designer name brands that I could never even begin to afford. This look is entirely from Old Navy and it is so easy to substitute pieces you may already have to recreate a similar outfit. I also like this outfit because it is cute and comfortable. This is a great dress for the summer and with the cardigan and booties it transitions into the fall so well. Also the cardigan is nice because sometimes schools have the AC blasting and you don't necessarily want to become an ice cube.

For The Boyfriend Type

Tank Top: $17.99 Watch: $34.99
Jeans: $29.99 Sneakers: $27.99

This is probably one of my favorite outfits that I put together for a back to school look. This is a great look to show off either a girly side or a more laid back tomboy side. I love the floral tank top paired with these comfy boyfriend jeans. This tank top brings a girly flare to an otherwise tomboy outfit. The shoes and watch bring it all together quite nicely. Again I am all about cheap, but cute, outfits. This entire outfit is from the one and only, Target. :)

For The Soft Rocker

Sweater: $17.80 Shorts: $15.80
Earrings: $2.80 Boots: $27.80

I am so obsessed with this outfit!! I put this outfit together because I love the look of this sky blue sweater with black faux leather boots. It's like a girly rocker look and I love it. So often when talking about outfits or styles, things are only one type of style. For example, this is a preppy look, this is a sporty look, this is punk, that is girly. But with this outfit it is bringing different styles together and I love that. This outfit is so simple yet so cute. This outfit is also so easy to recreate and use your own pieces to make it unique to you and your personal style. This entire outfit is all from Forever 21.

For The Cheap Prep

Shirt: $40 Watch: $70 Earrings: $14
Shorts: $26 Shoes: $35

This is definitely the most expensive outfit I have put together for my back to school looks. However, when looking at some preppy style outfits on Pinterest, they were all very expensive and designer-name brand items. So I felt that this was a more affordable option. This outfit is super cute and perfect for any girl who enjoys the preppy look but can't necessarily afford it. This entire look is from JCPenny and could be cheapened even more by finding similar items from different stores or using pieces you may already own.

For the sake of this blog post I only used 4 stores as inspiration for each outfit: Old Navy, Target, Forever 21, and JCPenny. The great thing with these outfits is that they contain so many simple clothing pieces that you may already own making it so easy to recreate these looks spending little to no money. 

What will you wear on the first day of school?

Love Always,

xo Noelle

#NoMakeUp

Yes, I titled this post hashtag no makeup. And yes, this will be a post about makeup or the lack thereof. Sorry boys, but I promise there will be more to it. So bare with me.

It has been about a month or so since the last time I wore makeup of any sorts. No foundation, no blush, no bronzer, no mascara, nothing. Some of you may not find that a big deal at all, while to others that may seem like an impossible task. A few months ago I would have definitely related to the latter.

I believe that there are two types of makeup wearers: those who use it to make themselves pretty, and those who use it to accent their natural beauty.

Personally, for a long time I was that girl who wore makeup to try to make myself pretty. I struggled, and continue to struggle with my self-confidence. Constantly looking at other girls and wishing I was as beautiful as them, using makeup as a tool to try make myself pretty. My makeup skills were limited and as a result I never put on tons of makeup but I would wear a fair amount.

It got to the point where I didn't like to leave my room or dorm without makeup on. At the end of the day when I would remove my makeup, I would look in the mirror and I didn't like what I saw. Redness here, bumps there, maybe a few zits. What ever the mixture was I didn't like it. So I hid it all with makeup.

I was so self-conscious about what I looked like without makeup on that I refused to go without.

So one day I decided to change that. I wanted to feel comfortable in my own skin and be more confident. So I decided to stop wearing makeup. Not that makeup is bad, because it isn't. And you aren't a horrible person for wearing makeup or enjoying using makeup. Makeup is a wonderful tool that can enhance your natural beauty. But for me wearing makeup was something I did in the hopes of becoming pretty, to hide the flaws and imperfections. I refused to notice any beauty that I already had.

At first going without makeup was hard and frustrated me. While getting ready in the morning I didn't like looking at myself in the mirror because I felt incomplete without any makeup on. It was a struggle at first but as I continued without makeup it became easier and even enjoyable. The ease of not having to worry about putting on makeup every morning was actually really nice.

After awhile I preferred not wearing makeup over wearing it. I began to accept and like how I look when not wearing any makeup. I feel like my confidence and self-esteem has majorly improved within the last month. The natural beauty I didn't think I had, I have now learned to accept and embrace.

To any girls who feel like the need to wear makeup to be beautiful or feel like you are pretty, I just want to tell you that you are already so beautiful. You don't need makeup to make you pretty, because you already are.

"You are all together beautiful, my darling, beautiful in every way." Song of Solomon 4:7 (NLT)

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Change

Google images

Change... just one word, yet it strikes fear and anxiety in so many people. But why? I understand that some change happens very abruptly without any warning. Sometimes change isn't the easiest to deal with. And sometimes when things change it isn't always a smooth transition. But what I don't understand is why, as humans, we are so terrified of one little word?

Earlier today my mom and I were talking about some of the things in our lives that have changed recently. As we were talking we came to the realization that many people around us have a hard time adjusting to change and they tend to vocalize all the things they don't like about what ever it is that changed. The most common response being, "It's so different now" or some variation of that. 

The key word here is different. If something changes then it is different, right? So then are we afraid of change or differences that change reveals to us?

I could do an entire blog post about how vital differences are in our lives. But, I will save that for some other time.

However, I do think it is important to quickly point out. I won't get too into this, but it is important to remember that the vast amount of differences in our world are what allow the immense beauty around us to stand out. If every flower looked, smelt and grew the exact same it wouldn't amaze us every time it bloomed. Differences are wonderful and as things change the differences are what shine through the most.

But sometimes people see change as a bad thing and not something that is necessary or good. Instantly when something changes they voice their complaints. "I don't like this". "I don't like that". "But this isn't the same". "That's different now". This frustrates me because they fail to even attempt to see the bigger picture. They fail to notice all the benefits that this new change can bring. I have definitely had this outlook before on things that have  changed, but I am learning to roll with the flow of life. It isn't always easy though.

This is how I picture this in my mind: You are driving down a road that is familiar to you and that you are comfortable with. Your co-pilot is God and he shows you a different road to go down. A road you have never ventured down, it scares you. At the end of your road is a bridge, but little do you know the bridge is out. If you ignore the new change and refuse to accept the differences it will bring you aren't allowing the Lord to lead you and you may just find yourself in a bit of a pickle once you reach that bridge.. Letting go of the wheel and letting God take control can be really hard. Leaving behind what is comfortable and jumping into what is new and different can be scary but it can be rewarding in the end, not just for us but for those around us. When we so strongly hold on and don't embrace change we aren't allowing God to bring us to new opportunities that will bless us in the end.

Now I understand not all change is good change. Sometimes things change for the worst and that is sad and upsetting. But I truly believe that something good comes out of EVERY situation, no matter how bad it may be. The loss of a loved one might allow you to bring healing and comfort to a friend who also lost someone close to them. A bad breakup may bring wisdom and insight to those who are struggling with a relationship as well. Hurt and pain don't have to be the end. Healing and hope can come out of even the hardest situations.

Even though accepting change or differences can be very hard and depending on the situation seemingly impossible. But change is vital in life. Learning to let things change can be a daunting task but if you let God take control of your life, these changes can bring you to such amazing opportunities.

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."
-Alan Watts

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Relationships: A Blessing Or A Curse

So I have been single for about... 19 and 1/2 years now, wait.. yup, my entire life. And I don't know about anyone else, but I personally struggle with wanting a boyfriend and wanting to stay single. I constantly see couples around and I secretly wish that was me, yet at the same time I think about all of the benefits of being single. How much less drama and stress there is being single versus being in a relationship. Yet I don't think I necessarily want to be single for the rest of my life.

Throughout high school and now in college, I have noticed an abundance of couples. They are everywhere! However, especially in high school, many of these relationships don't last very long. After a few months or a year I see friends of mine devastated after a break up with their boyfriend/girlfriend. Even when relationships seem to last, after a few years of marriage people get divorced. I understand some divorces are for very good reasons, abusive relationships, etc. But what frustrates me is when people just seem to give up. Their life got a little hard and they didn't "love" each other anymore so they called it quits. If you are just going to give up that easily then don't ever get married because marriage isn't about being in an easy carefree relationship where you never experience any hardships. Marriage is supposed to be when you and another person join forces to conquer all of the difficulties that may come your way, they become your partner in crime, your best friend. And you know what sometimes best friends have fights and they don't always agree on everything, and that's okay. I guess I just feel like if relationships don't tend to last very long nowadays what's the point of being in one. Why waste the time, effort and energy investing yourself in someone and something that isn't going to last?

However, ever since I was a little girl, as I am sure many girls can attest, I have always dreamed and looked forward to my wedding day. Now I'm not the type of girl who wants the whole fairytale wedding with a happily ever after, because I am way too much of a realist.. But I've pictured my friends and family gathered together, an amazing man standing in front of them along side some of his best men, and some of the greatest gals I know standing across from the boys. I have imagined how his facial expression will change as my daddy, with his arm around mine, and I descend down the aisle. Even as I am typing this it makes me smile. I don't expect it to be absolutely perfect but I know it will be our special day, the first day of the rest of our lives.

When I grow up I want to travel the world, or at least live in a different country. I honestly don't care what country it is, however, I really don't want to have to travel or live all by myself. It may sound crazy but that is a definite fear of mine, being completely alone somewhere. Even if it is just a friend, I just don't want to live or travel by myself. 

The idea of traveling the world and living in another country (possibly for the rest of my life.. Peace out USA) sounds amazing to me, however this isn't everyone's cup of tea. I have already encountered people where that thought scares them and it is something they would never even consider doing. As you can probably imagine finding someone who would be up for this hasn't really been the easiest so far. Along with this one kind of important credential for my future boyfriend/spouse, I have a fairly extensive list of standards for this lucky mystery man. A few of them being: having a relationship with Jesus Christ, wanting to live in a different country, and being loyal. Many friends of mine have told me that my standards are too high and that I will never find a guy who can live up to my high standards. However, I disagree. I think my standards are exactly where they need to be. I am in no way expecting a perfect guy to walk through the door and sweep me off my feet, as wonderful as that would be. But I don't want to give my heart to just any ole shmuck off the street who says I'm pretty or that he loves me. "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Proverbs 4:23 This Bible verse holds so much truth. If you give your heart away to everyone who asks for it, you won't have much left for the one who really deserves it. 

It is hard to go through life seeing couples everywhere you look, but as much as I would love to be in a relationship, right now I am okay with being single. I have a lot to focus on, school, work, friends, family, etc. But I know that someday down the road God is going to provide me with someone special. Whoever that may be isn't important right now. I just have to believe that if I focus on Him and His plan for me, the rest will follow. 

Love Always, 

xo Noelle

15 Things My Freshman Year Taught Me

Alright, now that just about everyone is done with school I thought I would share 15 things that I learned this year. This year was my freshman year of college and I loved it! I not only learned a lot academically but I also learned some good life lessons.

1. If you don’t make any friends the first week of school, it is okay! The people that are now some of my best friends I didn't even meet until September and October. It is also okay if you and your roommate don't become BFFs. My roommate and I got along really well but she had her friends and I had mine and it was totally fine!

2. If you don’t know what you want to do with your life yet, that’s okay! You’re not alone. There are TONS of college students that get to college and have no clue what they want to do but after awhile they find something that they love.

3. Don’t think that just because people are in college they are more mature than high schoolers… they aren’t. Especially those freshmen boys.. Now don't get me wrong, some of them are quite mature but at the same time a lot of them aren't.

4. All those habits you thought you were going to kick… nice try. I was definitely planning to eat healthier, work out more and not procrastinate anymore, yeah about that. Now don't take this the wrong way, I'm not trying to say that if you work really hard at it you can't do it, but it is definitely not easy. I went into it really optimistic, thinking it would be a piece of cake and it was the exact opposite. If you are going to try to kick a habit start with just one and work really hard at it!

5. There is no graceful way to eat salad…. ever. I learned this one the hard way. Now this isn't really a life lesson or anything but it was something I was faced with on a near daily basis. I really like salads but they can be really tricky to eat. And my friends never shied away from reminding me.

6. Never, ever, EVER turn down free food. Throughout the year there are countless opportunities to receive free food and as a poor college student it is some of the best news ever! Especially when you are running out of meals for the week. I remember just before finals the cafeteria offered free breakfast food from 8pm to 10pm. Let's just say most of the school showed up that night. It was pretty tasty :)

7. The phrase “poor college student” is so true! I tried to buy a bottle of water from a vending machine and didn’t have enough money… it was only $1.50. Yeah I know, pathetic right?

8. You will hate everything you came to school for, at least once. As much as you may deny it (but I love my major) you will be up late working on a project or you will have to do some assignment that is stupid and you will question why on earth you chose the major you chose. I know I did, many, many times. But don't worry you'll start loving it again.

9. It is possible to watch a movie every night. My friends and I were not partiers, like at all. So instead we would get together at someones dorm and watch a movie. So yes, there have definitely been times when we have watched a movie every night for a week or so. And no, I am not ashamed.

10. Honesty, no matter how hard it is to say or hear, is ALWAYS the best policy. ALWAYS! No matter what situation you are in it is always better to be honest.

11. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE!!! Even though we all do it anyway. I have gotten so incredibly stressed out this school year as a result of me procrastinating and waiting until the last possible second to start assignments. It is unnecessary stress and it isn't good or healthy. If you can avoid doing this to yourself, I would highly suggest it.

12. Sleep is so incredibly important! Even though it can be fun to stay up late or you need to in order to finish an assignment, which I would know nothing about.... Sleep is important. I ended up staying up until 7:30 in the morning to work on a project and then woke up at 8:30 to finish it. Later that day I ended up getting really sick. Like I'm talking headaches, stomachaches, throwing up, feeling light headed. It was not fun at all.

13. It is 100% okay to cry. For example, during finals week. ESPECIALLY during finals week. There were many times were I would just get so frustrated with an assignment, a professor, work, etc. and I would just sit in my dorm and cry for a few minutes. When things get overwhelming or frustrating, no matter how much we don't want to admit it, crying helps.

14. Being away for so long helps you sort out those worth coming home for and those worth forgetting. It’s sad, but it is true. Unfortunately, I had people in my life back home that just weren't very good friends. Before going to college I thought that it was okay for people who were my "friends" to treat me like that because that is just how it has kind of always been. But once I got to college I realized that that isn't what being a good friend looks like. At all. At college I was blessed with some really amazing friends who have been there for me through a lot of stuff and they have been the best friends anyone could have asked for. Some times you have to get away from a situation to realize that it isn't a healthy relationship. As hard as it may be to let go of those people, sometimes you just have to do what is best for you. I know personally I don't want people in my life who don't treat me well and make me feel like I'm not good enough. I don't think anyone should have people like that in their lives. Instead I want to surround myself with people who really care about me and build me up rather than tear me down.

15. Last but not least, have fun! It is okay to put off homework sometimes and go hang out with friends. Enjoy yourself and have fun, you’re in college for goodness sake! Okay don't tell my mom I said that... She would get mad at me if I put homework off to just hang out with friends. But in all honesty, it is okay to not sit in your room doing homework 24/7. I mean don't get me wrong, DO YOUR HOMEWORK! But don't go to college and only focus on the academics. Join a club, go see a movie, have a sleep over in your best friends dorm, go on late night Walmart runs because you don't know what else to do and Walmart is open all night. Work hard, do your homework, but don't forget to have fun!

Google Images

Love Always,

xo Noelle

If I Had Cancer...

Well today was the day. June 6th marked the release of a highly anticipated film based on the incredible book by none other than John Green, The Fault in Our Stars. Having read (and loved) the book, seeing the film was a must. So this afternoon, my sister, mom and I made our way to the theater to see it. I have to say, this film was absolutely wonderful. It was everything I could have asked for in a movie adaptation of a book and then some. It brought characters that were already very real in so many peoples' minds to life. And yes, I cried.

But I don't want this post to be all about how amazing the movie was or how much I liked the book or even how well they brought this book to life.

As I drove away from the theater, after seeing the most anticipated film of the summer, it got me thinking... Since this film was about kids who have cancer, I thought to myself about the idea of cancer, and what it would be like to get it. How would I handle the news? Would I be that inspiring cancer patient that brightens everyones day with my smile and positivity or would I crumble into a depression and never want to leave my house or eat? How might my relationships with my friends and family change? I would like to think that I will be brave, that my relationships will stay the same or even grow stronger. But then I wonder if my relationship with some people would completely disintegrate as a result of them not being able to handle or deal with what I was going through?

Unfortunately, I feel like that last one ends up being the truth of the matter far more often than it should. When I was about 7 years old I had a birthday party and invited some of my friends. One of those invited was a really good friend of mine, she had leukemia and as a result of chemotherapy, lost her hair. I specifically remember one of my other friends at the party asking what was wrong with "that girl over there". I simply smiled and said, "Nothing is wrong with her, she just has cancer and lost her hair". To me it was just that simple, there was nothing wrong with her she just had an illness. However that friend kept her distance from her the rest of the party. I remember not understanding what the big deal was. So what if she doesn't have any hair, she was still a really nice girl and a great friend. I honestly hope that if I were ever to get cancer that people would do what I did. I hope they would look passed an illness and realize that a person doesn't become their cancer or illness. They are still a nice person, a good friend, the same person they were a few months ago when they didn't have cancer.

This isn't the first time I thought about what it would be like if I were to get cancer and how my life would change. But this time especially, I thought not just about the disease or how my relationships with others might change, instead I thought about dying. Don't worry this isn't going to get all morbid and depressing or anything. What I mean by thinking about dying was not the actual act of dying, but rather, the moment of time leading up to that inevitable event.

If I had cancer and knew I was going to die sooner as a result of my cancer would I live my life differently? If so what would I do differently? Would I try to be nicer to people? Tell my friends and family I love them more often? Would I cherish all of the little moments? Go out and experience the world more? Smile more? Laugh more? Hug more?

But why?

Why wait until being close to death or until I potentially get cancer? Why wait until I am dying to live? The things I listed above are things I should be aspiring to do everyday, whether cancerous or cancer free, young or old. This is what I think the main point behind this book is or at least should be. Live each day as if it is your last. Travel to the place you have always wanted to go to. Kiss the person you love. Hug your mom and dad. Do the things you've always wanted to do but don't forget to do the little things along the way. Don't live like you are dying JUST when you may actually be dying, but live that way always. Mr. James Dean had the right idea...

"Dream as if you'll live forever. Live as if you'll die today." - James Dean

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Summertime Smoothie

I don't know about you guys but I LOVE smoothies! My love of smoothies is probably mostly due to the fact that I am not a fan of coffee (hot or cold), hot teas, or hot chocolate... I know, I'm weird. So in the winter, summer, or pretty much anytime of the year when I go to coffee shops I get smoothies. Smoothies are especially great right now as it is getting into summer and the days are getting hotter and hotter.

Yesterday evening I was getting kind of hungry, but I didn't want to eat too much to spoil my supper. So I thought I would make myself a little smoothie. It was an amazing smoothie, might I add. Since it was so super tasty, plus easy to make I thought I would share my little recipe with you all.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup water (or milk if that is what you prefer)
• 1 1/2 cups frozen fruit (I used frozen strawberries, mango, and pineapple)
• 1 individual cup of Yoplait Original Strawberry Yogurt
• 3 ice cubes

Instructions:

First, add the water into the blender, putting the water in first makes it easier to blend. Or so I've been told. Next, add the frozen fruit. Then, add the ice cubes. Now top it off with the entire cup of the yogurt. Then go ahead and put the top on and blend it up until it reaches the consistency that you like. I personally like my smoothies really smooth.

Let me know what your favorite summer drink is?

Love Always,

xo Noelle

Diaries And Journaling

Although I hate that I am doing this... I am nonetheless starting my very first blog post by mentioning that it is my first blog post. I guess while I am at it I will introduce myself: My name is Noelle, I am 19 years old and I am going to college to become a teacher. I make videos and post them onto Youtube, which I love doing and I am a wee bit obsessed with all things social media. I can guarantee that you can find me on just about any social networking website/app out there. I love them all! 

When I was about 13 years old I began to read the book Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. Although I never finished it I became enthralled with the idea of journaling. At the time, being inspired by a girl who grew up during World War II and who had to hide in an attic for months, I wrote mainly about what school was like and what it was like to grow up and live where I lived. I would talk about typical 13 year old girl things, such as, friends, boys, and how awful school was and how amazing summer was. I would try to use as much detail as possible incase for some reason I had to go into hiding and basically become the next Anne Frank. However, I did not have to go into hiding nor did I become the next Anne Frank. Ultimately I began to write entries in my journal more sporadically, going months between entries, even years, until I eventually gave up on journaling.

Even though I gave up I have always been infatuated with the idea of journaling. I would get back into journaling for a few weeks here and there over the years. Always so in awe of those who journaled regularly. "How do they remember to journal every day?" "How do they know what to write each day?" These were only a few of the questions I would ask myself about how they managed to continue journaling for so long. Now at 19 years old, I am still very much in love with the idea of journaling, but I don't want to be in love with the idea of it anymore, rather in love with the act of actually doing it. 

Yesterday I was at Michaels (a craft store) with my mom and my sister. While I was there I bought a journal (photo to the right). I am not totally sure why I bought it since I already have a journal that I am not even a fifth of the way through. But nonetheless I bought a new journal with the hopes to use up the one I already had and eventually start journaling in the new journal. I am hoping that I can motivate myself enough to start journalling often enough so that it will become a habit and something I can't help but do. This is definitely not going to be a quick and easy thing but I really REALLY hope that I can finally become an avid journal writer. As well as journaling more often I am starting this blog in hopes of blogging as well, which may be a bit ambitious since I don't even have the journaling part down yet. However, I still want to give it a try. I am not sure what exactly I will blog about, I am in no way a beauty guru, so that is out, and I don't really have any strange or bazaar interests as they suggest in many 'blogs for beginners' articles. I guess I will just kind of figure it out as I go, should be simple enough. 

Well whatever this blog may turn into I hope you enjoy this blog. If I can manage to get at least one person to smile or laugh that's enough for me. :)

Love Always,

xo Noelle