Poem

She wants to return
to the land where everyone’s seen her
leave the place that at one time,
the grass looked so much greener

The sun it shines on glimmering steel
that reaches in the Carolina sky
endless possibilities taste stale
mixed with tears that leave pale blue eyes

Alone at last and at last alone
she closed her eyes to dream
just like the one that lead her here
freedom isn’t just what it seemed

Perhaps in time she’ll find her place
but tonight she’ll wish on a starry display
that when the sun rises she’ll wake up and be
a million miles away

 

Everyday I'm Hustlin'

Perhaps this is a late realization, but as I walked out of my interview this morning with Premier in Ballantyne, I started to see just how important it is to have a competitive drive.

I know what some of you may be thinking... (Is this girl really a college graduate... and just coming to this conclusion right now?)
But hear me out...

Growing up an athlete, I have always held on to a competitive drive. In sports, however, it came down to the simple fact that we were, in fact, playing a game. It was a situation day in and day out that ultimately meant walking away from the field a winner or a loser- then eating ice cream and realizing that the next game will bring another opportunity for a different outcome.

But this is the real deal... sometimes there are NO do-overs, no "next game", or second chances... When it comes to interviews and jobs (especially in this current economy), sometimes that first chance is the only... and it will decide the course of every single following day of your life. *GULP!* Scary stuff if you think about it.

So while this post has no picture or visual aid to back up this statement (whether it be relevant to you or not) I just wanted to shed light on recent understanding on the importance of competition and a competitive drive. Every day is a competition with the people around you. Luckily, this means that there are so many chances to be good at something! And even more comforting is that assurance that we don't HAVE to be good at EVEYRTHING! But it could wind down to ultimately being the best at what you are chasing, so don't shy away from working beyond your comfort zone in order to prove your skills and desire to take on opportunity- Especially if it's something you know you want and need to succeed and grow.

Brief Weekend Recap

This weekend I moved into my new apartment right in the South Park area of Charlotte. Let me tell you, getting that horse trailer into the city wasn't an issue... until 4pm rush hour hit on the highway!


We get to the apartment, look for the keys, find them...
Drive off to find my dad, get lost, find him, get lost again....
Dear Charlotte- Why do all of your streets change names every four blocks?! That's not normal just in case you thought it was...





Anyway... through some tears, bumps and bruises from carrying couches and mattresses up the stairs, and a lot of stress... we finally have a functional apartment with electricity, groceries in the pantry, and a semi-normal looking living space. My bedroom, which is a little lot smaller than I had planned originally, is filled to the brim with pictures of family and friends, clothes, and my collection of Friends DVD's. No pictures yet, but once the place comes together at least 90%, I'll share some pictures of the little abode.

Until then, I am spending time working on finding a job, drinking my first cup of Caribou Coffee since the move, and trying to find sanity in this crazy life decision I just made. Whew! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Paint Prep

If you follow me on Pinterest... (Which you should, 'Cause I'd love you forever and ever... and more than likely follow you in return) You've probably noticed a trend.
Headboards, dressers, lighting, Oh My!

With the Charlotte-countdown-to-move-in barely above the 4 week mark, I am starting to get down and dirty with the move-out process. I recently cleared out my closet, ridding my packing process of old skirts and sweaters. But lets face it, I'll probably have to go through it AGAIN just to make the total number of clothing boxes fall below 10...hundred (only kidding... or am I?)

PS- When I move, I am DEFINITELY LABELING MY BOXES LIKE THIS

Along with the clean out, I have been collecting bedroom furniture, painting pictures, and browsing through IKEA. It's getting real, folks! Remember when I posted this thought on facebook?

Well, I am still working on the job and pet part (which is turning out to be a lot harder than originally anticipated), but with the move-in comes the chance to decorate my bedroom! And instead of the usual bright oranges, blues, and yellows- I am heading toward a more neutral approach:
Browns, whites, navys, and copper.

3 years ago, I took a wicker 4-drawer dresser from my mom's own furniture stash, painted it white, and used it at school.

 But like I said, I am leaning towards the brown wood look. 3 cans of spray paint later...

What do you think? It's like a blonde transforming into a luscious brundette... kinda?
Until later, I will continue my daily quest for all things move-worthy, a bridal shower gift, and the recipe for the perfect banana pancakes. Happy Thursday!

Charlotte in the Morning

Today is the day for my big follow-up interview with American City Business Journals, headquartered right here in gorgeous Charlotte, NC.

After spending a fun-filled (sleep-less) weekend with my lovely cousin, I must complete my tour-de-carolinas weekend strong with an interview that could ultimately bring me back to this bustling city.

I hope this interview yields a prosperous outcome, but after praying and realizing that everything is not in my hands, I feel relieved to know God's plan will prevail no matter what.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future."- Proverbs 31:25

It's a bit chilly, but the sun is shining as I will be spending my morning exploring the city by wheels and by foot until I meet my interviewers. Next stop?

Well... Trader Joes, OF COURSE!