Midway Checkpoint

We’ve made it to June already! This year is flying by! It’s the halfway point of the year, so where are you on your goals? Have you reached any milestones? If not, it’s ok, you still have time. Let’s regroup. I’ve been staring at my vision board for the past 6 months and I think I’ve done a pretty good job so far, but I still have to push myself. Writing out my to-do lists and goals on a monthly, weekly and even day-to-day basis helps me plan out everything. I have sticky notes everywhere! I’ve also learned so much about myself the past 6 months. Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way I hope this encourages you to keep pushing.

You don’t need a latte everyday.

Yes I say this to myself everyday on my morning commute. I know, I know, it’s a difficult habit to break. If you’re spending $4 a day for a week that’s 20 bucks that could go toward your dream vacay or new shoes. Whatever your vice is, try to make an effort to cut back. Oh the struggle between shopping, travel, and saving!

Learn to say NO and be OK with it.

I know Summer ‘17 is upon us and #FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) has surely kicked in. But I try to be very intentional with my time nowadays and also who I spend that time with. In the midst of all of the day parties and summer getaways also take some of that free time to focus on your goals or a new activity, or to spend some time alone to unwind and meditate. Your purse will also thank you for it.

Make time.

Let’s face it, life is short. A lot of us get caught up in the busyness and the routines of our day-to-day lives, that we forget about pursuing the life we want and deserve. If we really want something different we have to put in that work and overcome our fears. That could involve some late nights/early mornings or taking a few risks, but at least we can say we tried and had fun doing it. I am so happy to be surrounded by such amazing friends living out their dreams, which is even more motivation for me. Whether it's starting a business or traveling the world (or both!), live your BEST life.

What keeps you motivated to pursue your goals?

xoxo

Victoria

Reunited in RVA

A couple weekends ago I had the pleasure of co-hosting my best friend Jimmette's baby shower in Richmond, VA. It was perfect and she loved it! We did a black/white/gold brunch theme with MOMosas!  It was such a great time being able to reconnect with my best friends and shower the mommy-to-be with lots of love. It seemed like just yesterday I was watching her walk down the aisle. It's so exciting to watch my friends grow and transition into new phases of life. I can't wait until Baby Harrison arrives!

Of course while in Richmond, the foodie in me had to try a new restaurant. Janna and I decided to have brunch at Sweet Teas in Shockoe Bottom, and the food was great! I was so stuffed I had to take a nap before getting on the road lol!  Check out a few photos below from my weekend in RVA. 

xoxo

Victoria

Tonia, Jimmette, Janna and I #auntsquad #raisingHarrison

Tonia, Jimmette, Janna and I #auntsquad #raisingHarrison

The parents-to-be: Jimmette and Michael

The parents-to-be: Jimmette and Michael

Lots of sweet treats for our mommy-to be!

Lots of sweet treats for our mommy-to be!

Top: Vintage blouse (thrifted)Jeans: Old NavyShoes: Shoedazzle

Top: Vintage blouse (thrifted)

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Shoedazzle

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A little rain can't stop me. 

A little rain can't stop me. 

Vintage earrings "borrowed" from mom. :)

Vintage earrings "borrowed" from mom. :)

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Check out more photos here from my RVA shoot with Deaudrea Rich.

Pura Vida

Where do I begin? My trip to Costa Rica was amazing. There's nothing greater than being greeted by the sun. Every day at 5am I watched the sun rise, taking advantage of the quiet and stillness of the early morning filled with gratitude. Bright eyed and bushy tailed I was anxious and ready to start each day early to explore. We traveled an hour away from the airport to a boutique hotel right outside of the beach town of Jaco. The hotel sat amidst the rainforest at the top of a mountain. We had an incredible view of the ocean with excellent service and delicious food. The seafood was fresh and soo good. Jaco is a very tranquil and remote location. So if you're looking to really unplug yourself from the rest of the world this is the place to go. Everyone we met greeted us with a smile. The country's motto pura vida "pure life" was evident in everyone we met. Most of our days were spent relaxing by the infinity pool and the private beach running into people from all over the US. I also rode a horse for the first time and I was so terrified. I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone. My horse "Cricket" had a mind of his own, just like me, but I was able to steer the reigns gracefully. But we made it up the mountain, to the waterfall, and back safely.  It was another great experience to add to the books, and I would definitely go back again. 

xoxo

Victoria

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For Women Who Are Difficult To Love

you are a horse running alone
and he tries to tame you
compares you to an impossible highway
to a burning house
says you are blinding him
that he could never leave you
forget you
want anything but you
you dizzy him, you are unbearable
every woman before or after you
is doused in your name
you fill his mouth
his teeth ache with memory of taste
his body just a long shadow seeking yours
but you are always too intense
frightening in the way you want him
unashamed and sacrificial
he tells you that no man can live up to the one who
lives in your head
and you tried to change didn't you?
closed your mouth more
tried to be softer
prettier
less volatile, less awake
but even when sleeping you could feel
him travelling away from you in his dreams
so what did you want to do love
split his head open?
you can't make homes out of human beings
someone should have already told you that
and if he wants to leave
then let him leave
you are terrifying
and strange and beautiful
something not everyone knows how to love.

-Warsan Shire

A New Chapter

Today I started a new chapter in my life. After 5 years with my previous employer it was time to move on and pursue my interests in the non-profit world. There were times when I felt lost, stuck, and unsure of my next steps, but I just kept going. I remained patient and faithful that God would lead me where He wanted me to go. I'm very grateful for the challenges, growth, and favor I've experienced so far. I believe that things happen right when they are supposed to, and everything comes full circle eventually. The moment you feel like everything is falling apart, something great will happen. So whatever you've been patiently waiting on, pray on it, work hard, and watch what happens.  I've had so many crazy things happen recently, and all I can say is that I'm truly blessed.  Before I left, one of my former colleagues brought me a beautiful silk scarf from her trip home to India. I was so elated that she even thought enough of me to bring me something back.  Her gift was a reminder that you will never know the effect you will have on another person, and I'll always cherish the friends and colleagues I've made along the way. I'm excited about this new chapter and what the rest of 2016 has in store!

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