Hiatus / It may have been known from last week, but I took a slight hiatus from blogging. I had a lot of matters that were much more pressing, and taking some time for my mental health was a top priority for me. Even though there were some posts, nothing was new content. I am glad to say that I am back to business as usual and cannot wait to crank out some really amazing things for you all to see!

Training / Academic Peer Mentor training is now over! I have to admit, there were some long nights but I have really fallen in love with my job, my staff, and my university. It's been the best two weeks I've had all summer and even though I'm sad that I won't be seeing everyone 24/7 like we have been in the past, I am so excited to get to work on making this year great for my residents.

Move-in / Freshman move-in has begun on my campus and it really takes me back, seeing all of the excited faces on campus. There's something about being a freshman that is just so new and precious and vulnerable. I would do it all over again if I got the chance to. It was the best year of my life thus far.

Adventure / Man, if you're not finding adventures to go on at night at your campus, you need to start. Go with a small group and genuinely talk and get to know each other. It will be one of the best times you could ever have.

Recruitment / GUYS IT IS ALMOST TIME FOR RECRUITMENT. I am so excited to help these new women go through recruitment you would not believe it. I have been watching recruitment videos // bid day videos as if it was my job. Seriously, they are great. I highly encourage everyone to go Greek. Read more about why here!

Authenticity / After training, I have resolved to become a more authentic person this year and truly connect with people on a more real level. I want to be more open to diversity and opinions and beliefs and I really just want to start to change my perception.

Sorry about my absence, but I am so happy to be back doing what I love! Let's all have a great week! 

Blog Roundup

Evergreen & Ivy // Insightful and always on trend, Bess is going to inspire you to expand your mind and your wardrobe.

Dash of Serendipity // I feel lucky that I interviewed Emma a few months back for a couple of reasons. She is always bubbly and on top of her fashion game, not to mention she adds an element of whim to the blogging community. 

Yep, It's Prep // This is the blog you want to go to for some picture inspiration. Beautiful photos, classic outfits, and an overall great sense of style- all compliments of Isabella. 

Absolutely Antonia // This is a favorite of mine that I've been keeping up with for a few months now. Antonia has great insight to college and academic life, and her posts really transfer her values to the reader. 

Mackenzie Kendall // A new blog I've been following, but a fav none the less! Besides being cute as a button, Mackenzie is just a fun blogger. She's got a colorful wardrobe that she shows off expertly, and her Lush halls will have you running to your nearest retailer.

Definitely check out these blogs if you need some new reading material! They're all amazing!

Peek At My Dorm

Just a fun peek into my dorm room for my sophomore year! I'd have to say that my desk space is my absolute favorite part of the entire room. It's amazing what some spray paint, dollar store frames, and photo paper can do to transform your space. If you want a more in depth look at my room or have questions about something specific, let me know! 

What decorative plans do you have for your dorm?

An Open Letter To My Chapter On Disassociation Day...

Hey, what's up, hello-

This is really hard to write. I've been staring at a blank document for days- writing and rewriting my thoughts and feelings about disassociating... Now the day is here and I still have no clue what I even want to say to you all in parting.

Let's start with some thank you's, shall we? First and foremost, thank you for bringing me out of my shell. If I was standing by my freshman year self at this time last year, I wouldn't recognize me. Joining the chapter was something that helped me bust out of my comfort zone. I never have felt more comfortable around 80+ girls in my life, but I not only feel comfortable around you all, but I feel safe, brave, and at home. All of you are helping me become the best version of myself, and I know without your support and guidance, I would never be accomplishing everything that I had over this past year.

I also need to thank you for helping me find me voice. In a chapter with so many strong women, it can sometimes be hard for me to share my opinions or ideas, but it's gotten a whole lot easier around you guys. You've given me the tools to start opening myself up and you've begun to teach me how to speak up when I need to, how to have grace when I embarrass myself, and most importantly- how to truly listen to others. This has helped me so much already in the things that I've begun to do around campus.

I guess I really just want to say that I'll miss you all. You've all become my family when I'm away from home, and you're the older sisters I've always wanted to have. I can't wait to meet all the girls you usher into our home and I'm counting down the days until I can jump off stage to you all.

See you on the other side! One month can't be that long... right?

(P.S. please enjoy this photo edit of some lovely ZTA women on their bid day. I can't wait to experience the excitement they have in their photo with you all in a short month!) 

An Open Letter To My Big On Disassociation Day...

I don't know what's going to be worse- not talking to you for a month or you leaving the chapter soon. For now, we'll go with not talking to you for a month. I think it pretty much goes without saying that I'm going to miss you but I'm going to say it about five hundred times throughout this letter to really drive the point home. 

In under a year you've quickly become one of my most favorite people ever. I remember around this time last year being on the Panhel website, stalking the heck out of you. I remember sitting behind my laptop telling my roommate about how I basically wanted to be you, and if nothing else, be your little. Funny how things work out. 

You were my first friend in the chapter. I pretty much talked to you every night of recruitment (even though I probably wasn't supposed to), and when I wasn't talking to you, I was talking about you. I cried for your homecoming on Bid Day when you finished your reveal, and though I had already known what chapter you were in, I was so happy to just be one of your sisters. 

In under a year, you've taught me a lot. You taught me to take the high road (even when I don't want to because some people are worth being extra sassy to...). You helped me learn every ritual, you helped me prepare for my new member exam, and you even helped me learn to to put my own pin on. Outside of the chapter, you taught me the wonders of Chick-fil-A sauce, the best places to hide in the OC, and where you can isolate yourself in the library while still being close to an outlet. 

Besides being my big, you're also like my second mom when I'm at school. You offer to bring me gatorade for when I'm deliriously sick after composite, you always talk me out of chopping all of my hair off when I'm sick of doing it every day, and you've taught me the importance of layering pants when the walk across campus is too cold for one pair of leggings. You always sit with me at lunch so that I'm never alone, and you always introduce to me to the Greeks I don't know at Greek table so that when you're not there someone always knows me. You always have gum for when I've drunken too much coffee and I have a bad case of coffee breath, and you're always my go-to for swiping free food from SPB events. 

I'm pretty sure you're also the only one in the chapter who understands my love of big/little pictures, and you never get annoyed when I have to take a picture over because my eye one eye sometimes looks lazy (#thestruggle). You equally love mint chocolate chip ice cream, and you get that I go through phases of being obsessed with everything from a genre of music to a way to wear my hair. I'm going to miss our Chipotle / McDonalds/ Taco Bell / Applebee's runs after meetings, and I'm even going to miss the way you cut me off when I'm telling a story (because I always end up cutting you off too so you just get it). 

Thank you for letting me talk about Nick Jonas, listening to my love/hate relationship with everything Justin Bieber does, supporting my obsession with phanny packs, and for dragging my grandma self out so that I learn to be social. Thank you for teaching me how to be a new member, how to be brave and run for positions, and for always encouraging me to #blogaboutit. (Also thank you for not getting mad when I say "hashtag ___" because I know I do that a lot.) Lastly, thank you for being the reason I fell in love with our chapter and for being an exemplary model of what a sorority woman embodies. I can't wait to run into your arms on bid day (please catch me!!!) and throw our sign with you for the first time publicly in a month. 

I miss you already, Big! 

(please enjoy this picture of my big being cuter than me even when her face is covered up...)

My thoughts while reading: 99 Days

This book was amazing and I absolutely loved it. I loved it so much in fact, that I actually had some hilarious thoughts that I thought would be fun for you all to read. Some of my thoughts and reactions to 99 Days:

Who tf even eggs houses anymore?

Wait, is this for real? Her mom did that? 

Julia, what's your damage? 

Imogene, could you just hear her out please. 

GABE WAIT WHOA.

Ugh yes, this is the scandal I'm talking about. 

Well... that's awk...

LOL she's working with her ex's new girlfriend. 

The feels... just... the feels...

SHE IS RUNNING AGAIN. Something's going to happen on this trail. 

Nothing happened on that trail... but it was totally set up perfectly...

BUT HE SAID HE'S ON YOUR TEAM MOLLY

Patrick why are you playing with my emotions? 

JESUS PATRICK.

I no longer know if I'm #TeamPatrick or #TeamGabe

Nope. Definitely #TeamPatrick. 

Wait... but Gabe... he's so sweet. 

#TeamGabe it is.

Nope. Nope. Back to #TeamPatrick. 

#TeamPatrick all the way. 

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING AGAIN. 

Molly... girl why...

What... the book is over? 

That's it...

Best. book. of the summer. 

While I'm not giving away the juicy details of this book, I will say that on the surface it's a messy love triangle that dabbles in discussing double standards and the growth of a young girl. It was supremely addictive and I couldn't put this book down once I started it. I'm a sucker for flawed characters and summer love, so this book was basically everything I look for in a summer read. 

Have you read 99 Days? What did you think?

Monday Musings

Dorm sweet dorm // I'm back on campus once again, which means dorm life is in full swing. I'm all settled in and enjoying my new digs before the rest of campus moves back in. I severely miss my old roomie, but I'm also really excited to meet my new one in a couple of weeks. Also, you can expect a room tour soon!

Camp // As I mentioned before, I was at camp this past weekend. I survived the weekend with minimal bug bites and an overall better appreciation of housing staff. I also learned that I'm a clean freak- but that's not that surprising.

Hours // The hours have been ticking by so slowly it seems. Getting back from camp has my sense of time completely flipped and I'm having a hard time keeping track of the days (it feels like Tuesday for me!).

Door tags // If you don't appreciate the door tags your RAs and APMs make for you, you have no idea the difficulty they go through making them. I just made 120 little mason jars for my residents and it was a daunting task. I still have to dec my door and work on a newsletter, but I'm taking baby steps...

Heat // MY DORM IS SO HOT.

Disassociation // I disassociate from my chapter this week *cue crying emoji* and it still hasn't fully hit me that it's going to be a month before I can be out with all of my sisters again. I'm hoping that I'll be busy enough to the point where it won't really hurt so much, but it's going to be hard nonetheless.

That's all for my slow Monday! How's your day rounding out?

Book review: Lilly

First impressions: 

Before reading this book, I expected to read a book all about Lilly Pulitzer, her growing up, and her raise to fashion fame. With dashes of the glitz and glam of Palm Beach added, I thought it would be a light and easy read that also discussed her background and the elements she grew up in. 

While reading: 

I must say that this book was a bit of a tough read for me. Not in content, but in information. It was almost like information overload if I'm being honest. It was heavy in background information, and while that was to be expected, it was not at all the kind of background info I thought I would be reading. It was mostly background on the people in Lilly's life, and it just led a tangled confusing web of people to follow who hardly pertained to Lilly herself. I also thought there was a lot of fluff added to the book. Some things about distant friends and relatives seemed a bit repetitive and it was enough for me to put the book down several times.

Thoughts: 

While this book was dry, it definitely had it's moments of intrigue. The best moments were the chapters solely about Lilly (basically just chapter 7 thought...) or the ones that described her fabulous Palm Beach home. While this book wasn't thrilling or interesting 24/7, it definitely had some great insight into what made Lilly the quirky designer she was, as well as how she sparked her famous brand. If you're a die-hard Lilly fan, this book is for you. 

Have you read Lilly?

I Am A Sorority Woman.

I am proud. Proud to be apart of a community that is so passionate in changing the way the world perceives the word "sorority." Earlier this month, Delta Gamma launched a hashtag to get the conversation started about what it really means to be a sorority woman today. In a world where movies and raunchy TSM/TFM articles pilot the way that we sorority woman are characterized, it can be difficult at times to show the world who and what we really are. While sororities in movies are made up for entertainment and the people behind the TSM articles are out to make a profit, the quick laughs they bring can do a lot of damage to the idea of being Greek. I fully support Delta Gamma's efforts to redefine our stereotypes and thought it high time to share my own two cents. Besides being a sorority woman, here are some other things that make me me: 

I am a lover of cheesy romantic comedies. 

I am a die-hard planner nerd. 

I am a coffee addict. 

I believe in experiencing as many things as I possibly can.

I am a member of my university's housing staff. 

I believe in the potential of my sisters. 

I am an adventurer and a dreamer. 

I believe in getting a solid, rounded education.

I am a sorority woman. 

So, let's keep the conversation going. Join in on the hashtag and share what makes you, you. I fully believe this is a movement that could change the way we are perceived as collegiate women, and I want to hear what makes you a sorority woman. 

Monday Musings

How great is this succulent gardner from Eastern Market?

Packing / So in the true fashion of a procrastinator, I left my college packing for literally the three days before I was supposed to move in. Classic right? Anyways... My basement is in shambles and I've got rubbermaid tubs everywhere. Is it Thursday yet? No? Good, I'm not packed anyways. 

Reading / In the past week, I have gone to two libraries and cannot find one single book to read. It's basically high time that I get my butt to the nearest Barnes & Nobles, but with all the packing on my mind I can't even fathom the thought. 

Camp / With being apart of the housing staff, going to camp is also apart of the job. I haven't been to a summer camp in almost two years, and while I wasn't completely stoked for it, I can't help but look back on my memories of camp and become a teeny bit excited to be going back. 

Lull / With the mention of camp, I just wanted to tack on that posts may become a little slower than my average. Between camp and training for this new position on campus, I've gotta direct my focus to absorbing as much info in these next couple of weeks as I possibly can. I've got scheduled posts stocked and ready to go, and Monday's should be their usual, but other than a couple of posts a week that's about all I think I can swing right now. 

Costco / I recently went to Costco with my mom to get some last minute dorm supplies and all I can say is that Costco fits the hashtag #thingswhitepeoplelike. I bought snapware, leggings, and a flannel and if that doesn't scream suburban soccer mom, I don't know what does... 

The Longest Ride / I watched this movie last night with my mom and all I can say is tear. I sobbed the entire last half an hour. It was that great. 10/10 would recommend- but only if you're wearing waterproof makeup or better yet, no makeup. 

How's your Monday shaping up?

College Wardrobe Must-Haves

College is upon us and that means smaller rooms, smaller closets, and less space in general. Packing for college can be hard, especially when it comes to compiling the perfect wardrobe. You want to be prepared for every occasion, but you also know you can't pack your entire closet. Below are my suggestions for assembling the perfect college wardrobe. An LBD to dress up or down, skinnies, leggings, and Norts to keep you comfy and casual, plain tees to dress up or down, warm fleece for fall or game day, and the perfect shoes for just about every occasion. And let's not forget the accessories. A perfect neutral bag, statement necklace for some bling, and a timeless watch to keep you prompt for class.

What are your wardrobe must-haves when it comes to packing for school?

Dorm Sweet Dorm

If you're anything like me, moving into college means decorating an entirely new space. This space can be anything you want it to be. You can reflect your personality in every corner and in every item you put in your room. While we all have different styles, there are a few essentials that help build the coolest room. Here are my picks to help you build the coolest dorm. Ever. 

Soft sheets are a must. Comfy for sleeping, lounging, and studying in bed. When buying bedding, you want something durable enough to last and stylish enough so that you never tire of it during your undergrad. This set from the brand Parachute is perfect, and it comes in navy which is a bonus in my book! I think these sateen sheets would be extremely comfy and I'm dying to have a set of my own.

I made the mistake of not getting a body pillow for my freshman year. Don't make that mistake. This pillow is super affordable and is great for stuffing against the wall or for cuddling. Because let's face, sometimes the math works out like this: pillows > boys.  

Don't forget to cover your pillow! This cover, this cover, and this cover all earn an A+ in my grade book! 

Throw pillows are also a must. They make your bed like a perfect cloud and are great to both accessorize and lounge with. I'm a fan of this, this, this, this, and this when it comes to throws. This would also be a nice basic pillow sham to have, also from the brand Parachute.

We can't forget a comforter though, can we? I'm adoring this one and this one at the moment!

You'll need a nice blanket to snuggle under too- for days when you don't want to unmake your bed for a quick 20 min nap in-between classes. This one has me all heart eyes emoji. 

What's a room without some art? Boring, that's what it is. To dec out your space, don't be afraid to hang some prints, posters, or marquees. It can define your space so perfectly and start some great conversations if you have some truly unique pieces hanging up. 

I'm known to love a witty quote, sassy print, or a great framed photo of me and a bestie on my walls or desk. 

You can't go wrong with posters to fill the blank spaces on your walls. I'm crushing hard of this one and this one, but if these don't fit your tastes, amazon literally has thousands to choose from!

Wall tapestries are also the bomb.com when it comes to decorating your walls. They're literally art on fabrics. Definitely search one out if you're into the boho vibe they give off. I'm a fan of this one, this one, and this one. 

Wireless // bluetooth speakers are a must when going off to college. You're able to bring the party anywhere and you'd honestly be surprised by how often you need to amplify your tunes. This speaker by jambox is portable enough to bring wherever while also giving off killer sound. 

Lighting always needs to be on fleek, especially when you're taking shameless selfies to post on the 'gram. To keep your lighting in check, invest in a lamp such as this one or this one. Thank me later when your selfie gets 100+ likes.

Rugs can do a lot for your room. Think about popping something like this or this onto your floor and watch it become the unofficial hangout zone within your dorm.

I hope you enjoyed my tips on how to build the coolest dorm room ever. These simple things will make your dorm feel like your second home & will hopefully get you amped to start school again. Let me know what's a must for you when trying to make your dorm room feel cozy!

Lace Trim Tank

I've been absolutely loving this look for breezier summer days/nights. This peachy-pink tank has an adorable lace trim and is lightweight enough to keep me cool. I love the pairing of it was my felt hat and birks, giving it an all together boho vibe. While a lot of these pieces have been sitting in my closet for ages, I've rounded up a similar look you can shop below!

Are you a fan of the boho look?

Monday Musings

Moving / In a week from this Thursday, I move into my new dorm room on campus. I'm really excited to be getting back to it, but I'm really anxious to start the school year. The end of August and all of September is going to be crazy busy for me.

Retreat / Panhellenic retreat was on Saturday and I had such a great time and I learned so much. Bid matching suddenly made sense and it was nice to see the panhellenic community on my campus get together to prepare for recruitment.

Work / I'm relieved to say that I have finally made it to my last Monday of work at my summer job for the season. It's been a long summer in our tiny little shack, but I will completely miss my co-workers once I go back to school. They're absolutely great people who I'm lucky to call friends.

Movies / I've literally gone to so many movies in the last month and I have a feeling I'm going to be going to a handful more before moving back onto campus. What summer flix have you seen and loved?

MELLIE / Okay so maybe I'm a little too obsessed with my roommate but I'm so excited that we finally have the same day off this week. We haven't planned anything yet but I'm hoping we can see each other because it's been basically 3 months and I feel deprived. Even though we're not roommates this year, she'll always be my roomie.

Chacos / So I caved and invested in a pair of Chacos and oh.my.gosh. They are fabulous and totally worth the price. They're so comfortable and I know I'm going to get a ton of use out of them, especially when I'm off at camp in a week.

How's your week looking? Hope it's absolutely fabulous! 

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LMJ