Happy New Year!

Dear readers,

I want to start with a New Year's wish for 2015, bestowed on us by the fantastically imaginative Neil Gaiman:

Be kind to yourself in the year ahead.

Remember to forgive yourself, and to forgive others. It's too easy to be outraged these days, so much harder to change things, to reach out, to understand.

Try to make your time matter: minutes and hours and days and weeks can blow away like dead leaves, with nothing to show but time you spent not quite ever doing things, or time you spent waiting to begin.

Meet new people and talk to them. Make new things and show them to people who might enjoy them.

Hug too much. Smile too much. And when you can, love.



Looking back on 2015, it was an emotional ride.

When I began the concept for this post a few hours ago, en route from North Carolina back to Virginia, I couldn't see anything positive. I could only see the emotional challenges I've been struggling with, the realization that I haven't been kind to myself for most of this year. The fear of still not finding a job in my field eight months after graduating. The frustration of moving back in with my parents and the conflict of opinions that has ignited, both between myself and family and within my own mind.

Much of this has caused my long absence from this blog as I struggled to figure out where to go, both physically and in my life. I've been scared of allowing anyone to know what's been going on in my life. However, isolation (even an absence of writing) only makes things worse.

So, yes this past week has been hardest time I've been through in years. But this week doesn't define 2015, which has had its incredible highs to counter the low points.

I've finally discovered a confidence and outgoing personality I never knew was in me. I've used it in making new connections in the job market, which will hopefully pay off in the coming year!

Despite what I'm going through now, I have immense dreams for the future which, regardless of the current situation, I will always believe to be achievable.

I've become an alumna of University of Mary Washington, the best school I could have chosen for my undergrad, and am finally moving ahead with my love of fantasy writing (five chapters in, countless more to go).

It's cliche, I know, but the best part of 2015 was developing some crazy feelings for my best friend, being terrified that I might lose him if I admitted them, and discovering that he felt the same way for me. These past (almost) nine months have been extraordinary spending them with the most amazing guy in the world. I can't imagine a better highlight to this year.

 And like all of you, I am so excited for the coming year and all it has to bring. Let's hope 2016 is a great one.

Cheers and love to you all,

Victoria

Validity of the Fictional World

Despite my admission that I am more a mental than physical traveler, I have been making my way through destinations that take me far from my small-town apartment, which explains why this blog is so behind!

Two Mondays ago, my dad and I took a roadtrip through a hectic part of the country called North Jersey so I could check out a potential graduate program at William Paterson University. After experiencing several close collisions within the town of Paterson (which I would compare to downtown DC), I'm not completely sure which direction to take: grad school or the work environment. Hopefully that decision will be made before the end of the year.

What inspired me most about this trip was the two hours I spent in a small classroom, looped into a half-circle with eight graduate students and a professor from the Creative and Professional Writing Program, listening to the students present their mock-lesson plans for an Intro to Creative Writing Fiction class. Now, nonfiction is more my forte (any fiction I write is so heavily based in past experiences that it severely challenges the genre) but the methods by which these students broke down the elements of creating believable characters could even work as to a checklist when writing about actual people.



The one exercise that stuck out most to me was a challenge to avoid writing black-and-white characters, the characters who are either completely good or completely evil. For every good quality, the student/writer would have to create a negative trait, and vice versa. It's definitely a great way to add some realism to fictional characters, because as much as we'd like to believe, there is no black-and-white in the human condition. All the best people have flaws. And as much as we'd like to believe otherwise, evil people have at least a tiny ray of positive nature.

I won't focus on the latter because this is a heated, and for some, close to home issue given the recent terrorist attacks. But this realization really made me stop and think about it. Sure, we'd all like to believe that we're doing the right thing and yes, we have faults, but doesn't everyone? And then there are the people we just can't stand. Not inherently bad people, but they have hurt me in the past and it's hard to see beyond that pain. Across the board, however, we're pretty similar in the realm of between positive and negative personas.

I played around with this list, placing myself in the role of the character, and tried to balance it out. Here's what I came up with:

Creative                                                                           Insecure about my abilities
Sets goals high so I can challenge myself                       Easily distracted
Tries to put others first                                                    Has difficulty getting beyond hurts in the past
Adventurous                                                                    Afraid of the unknown
Passionate about what I love                                           Has difficulty getting beyond my own POV

This is a great challenge to take as a writer, but also as a regular human being. Being a writer doesn't just mean creating stories and characters: it forces you to have a deeper understanding of the human condition and to convey that through your writing.

I have a lot of people to thank for this understanding, especially my creative writing professors: Colin Rafferty, Jon Pineda and Warren Rochelle. Thanks so much for your support and instruction - I promise to make the most of it!

Cheers,
Victoria

An Open Letter to My Little Sister

Dear little sis,

It's going to be a while before you read this, and maybe even longer before you understand why I'm writing this to you now. Just think of this letter as what I wish someone had told me before I became an adult.

I look at you now, my precious, impulsive baby sister, and it makes me nostalgic. I remember when I was seven, when my biggest concerns were wondering what would happen in the next chapter of my Nancy Drew book. Or hoping Mum wouldn't notice the mess in my closet so I could go play at my friend's house. (Don't try to trick Mum by the way; she'll always find out, and as you know already, the punishments aren't pretty). When I thought about growing up, I dreamed of being a vet (because I loved animals) and of being an artist (because I loved to draw).

I didn't think growing up would hurt. I didn't expect the boys I liked to break my heart, and never thought that finding the right job would keep me awake at night. When I was seven, tears were meant for sad story endings and frustrations of not being able to make choices because I was too little to do so. I wish it had stayed that way. How was I to know that making my own choices would hurt so much? It was so much easier when Mum and Dad would tell me what to do. And nothing frustrates me so much as hearing "it's your choice." I know you hate it when I smile when you throw a fit because someone is making choices for you, but I wish I could be back there. I wish I could relive seven again because there is so much I would change.

But this isn't about what I wish I could redo. It's what I hope you will do as you grow up.

I hope you will discover your own dreams and fight for them. Never let anyone tell you anything is impossible because you can do anything you set your mind and heart to. If you suddenly have no idea what you want to do with your life, that's okay too. We all go through those moments. No matter how much you feel like you can't achieve your goals. That's when I want to believe even more in yourself, in your abilities. Remember, there are so many people who believe you can do this.

And when life doesn't work out the way you planned, it's okay too. I wish I didn't have to tell you this, but life does have it's disappointments. You might lose friends. You might not get into the college of your dreams. Your heart may be broken. When that happens, you might feel like life isn't worth going through. But you're not alone. I've been there. Our mom and dad have been there. It's moments like these when you'll learn who your true friends are. You'll discover what drives you forward when the boy you thought was everything walks away. As much as those moments will hurt, and maybe even crush you, you'll come out a stronger person who looks at the world in a different way.

You're a great girl who's going to experience amazing moments in the future. Sometimes, in trying to discover who you want to be you can lose track of the person you already are. It's so easy to be distracted by who your friends want you to be, but if these people are truly your friends, they'll love you for YOU, not for the person you think you should be. So trust yourself. Trust in the people who love you. Because they will always be there to love and support you.

If there was one thing I wish I could protect you from it's from letting boys break your heart. Yes, there are some great guys out there, but before you find them you're going to have deal with a lot of guys who will hurt you terribly. Even though they're not important, they'll make your life miserable. When you see that one cute guy talking to another girl, it's like he just pulled out your heart and crushed it. The worst part is knowing that this shouldn't hurt so much so you try to force a smile and pretend everything is okay. I know it's not. And even though it might make you feel silly, just cry it out. We've all been there and it's okay.

I hope you won't let this hurt shut out the good guys. I hope you'll keep holding out for the right guy. The one who stares at you speechless because he can't believe you're his girl. Who tells you you're beautiful more times than either of you can keep count. I hope you find someone who waits up with you the nights you can't sleep and who you don't feel like you have to hide your true self from. I want you to be with someone who you consider your best friend and who you can't imagine not sharing the craziest and most simple adventures with.

Most of all, I hope we'll be best friends in the future. You'll always be my first little girl, my baby sister. But I know we're going to have so much fun as you grow up. I can't wait to take you on your first sisters-only shopping spree and stay up late watching movies. I want to be the one you call up when life is tough and you need a shoulder to cry on. I can't wait to see you graduate from high school, from college and discover your own passions. I want you to have the best life in the world, and I want to be there with you through the best moments, the worst and the life changing experiences you'll encounter.

I love you, baby sis.

New York, New York

A lot can change within a few months.

Last spring, I was set on completing my graduate degree at Bangor University in Wales and making multiple side trips to London, Ireland and the surrounding UK highlights. But, as fate would have it, I chose not to go to Wales and am instead writing fashion reviews from my apartment in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Sometimes I really wish I had taken a chance, come up with the money and gone to Bangor. Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but after looking into the program I realize that an MA won't be enough to pursue my goal to teach university. And if I hadn't been freaking out over the fact that I wasn't in school and desperately in need of writing experience I wouldn't have been applying to high profile fashion publications...to cut it short, I wouldn't be where I am today, and that's something I wouldn't change for the world.

Having said that, I don't want to stay in the Valley (Shenandoah Valley; my boyfriend loves to call me a Valley girl, but a lot of people read that as being from California, myself included). At least not long term. And being in a serious relationship, I don't relish the idea of relocating abroad where I'll at best see my guy four times a year and face a 5+ hour time difference. (que tears)

So, I've set my sights on a city a little closer to home. Where the lights are brighter, the fashion industry is literally) right at my doorstep, and there is a chance to take my cat without a 6 month quarantine period.



Yes, I'm perfectly aware that life in the Big Apple is no Friends or How I Met Your Mother, and certainly it's no Gossip Girl. But I also know that New York is the biggest spot in America for the fashion industry and for writers (double score!). Of course, a lot of this decision will be made on the Creative and Professional Writing MFA at William Paterson in New Jersey (which I'll be going to check out in two weeks).

I'll be honest, the idea of relocating to a huge metropolis scares me. A lot. But I'm in my twenties, and this is the time for me to take risks in life. I've always wanted the experience of living in the city before having children, and discovering my passion for fashion (sorry, had to use it) has made me think more seriously about taking the step towards NYC Life.

New Yorkers (and any of my lovely readers) - any thoughts?? Comment below!

Cheers,
Victoria

The Fashionista Perspective

Hello friends!

First news: after an exhilarating Fashion Month, featuring fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan and Paris, my internship has been extended for another two months!!! Three of my pieces from the end of the month were just published on Deux Hommes' site, and you can find them along with the rest of my portfolio here. :)

As I'm sure you have experienced, whatever you work in - politics, teaching, business administration - it usually spills over into the rest of your life. As a fashion writer, this couldn't be more true. And although the process might start at the root of fashion it quickly begins to promote changes which don't seem related to clothing or style at all.

Take today's schedule for example: I woke up at 6:30 to go for a brisk walk with my roommate, Caroline. (Walk, because being out in sub-freezing temperatures feels like we're burning calories just standing still, and because it's a great way to connect before starting on our respective schedules.) We stopped at a Starbucks before heading back, and then I showered and changed (belted wrap cardigan over a corduroy pencil skirt with black riding boots) before heading downtown for a coffee date with a friend of my mom's. After reconnecting for two hours or so, I went back home and looked over the images from a London Fashion Week show, as well as the designer's bio, for a review due this afternoon. On this evening's schedule is wardrobe organization and putting together the beginning elements of a fashion blog (which is how my editor at DH got her start in the fashion industry; you learn from the best, right?). 

Yes, this is probably fashion overload, and that's not even bringing into account my hour-long makeover/beauty instruction. It sucks you in, whether that job is fashion or any other profession. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my internship (think Emily Blunt in the Devil Wears Prada "I love my job, I love my job, I love my job" minus the crazy hours and emancipation diet) and I love how it motivates me to work towards a future in the industry. I love that it's motivated me to work out and play around with different styles in my wardrobe.

But honestly, the best part of being a fashion writer is the ability to compose a review to further enhance each designer's creation. With each review, I have the opportunity to get inside the mind of the designer and put words to their designs that will spark the imagination of the reader. Describing Sandy Liang's line as "Wonderland spiced with a dash of NYC grit" or relating Honor Fitzsimmon's collection of knits to the Tunit people is something I never thought I could do with creative writing, and I love it!

October Weather and Fall Adventures

Hello readers!

So, I've been a little tied up lately. My internship with Deux Hommes ended with a four-article-deadline last Wednesday which left me exhausted for the next several days. But here it is October already, and I have yet to enjoy the standard fall things like hiking, apple picking and sipping Pumpkin Spice Lattes while exploring the downtown. (Actually I have had a PSL, though not downtown, and discovered that a chai latte with shot of pumpkin is even spicier and therefore, better.)

I love October. I love the colors, the chilly temperatures and the way everything looks before day light savings time ruins all our lives (seriously, someone should have figured this out already). I love how I have this whole beautiful month to reconcile with turning another year older because it's impossible for anyone not to feel like a child again when one of those breezes tosses the fallen leaves into a Disney-worthy whirlwind. Or not to feel awe-inspired when driving through the mountains and catch a glimpse of color-touched hills in the distance.



For me, the best thing about October is wanderlust. I experience chronic wanderlust all the time, but it's heightened in the fall. Maybe it's the unquestionable beauty of autumn that makes me want to just pack my bags and head off on an adventure. I'm not sure, but October makes me want to turn on a U2 soundtrack, featuring their song October, and drive across the country.

Which I'm planning on doing. Not right this minute, but I've always wanted to do a road trip from the East Coast to the Pacific, and now that I've roped a few friends into doing this with me I've started planning out a rough map based on different sites I want to see with my own eyes:

Chicago, IL



 To meet up with my bestie :) and to experience some fun night life

Omaha, NE



My boyfriend and I have joked so much about going that we can't not go at this point.

Yellow Stone National Park, MT



It's not all geysers apparently...

Glacier National Park, MT

 

Because how can you not?

Pacific Coast Highway, OR



The most beautiful first glimpse of the Pacific.

San Francisco, CA



To satisfy my longtime fascination and terror of Hitchcock's Vertigo. Giant sequoias are also mandatory.

Joshua Tree National Park, CA



Because U2 WAS HERE!!! And turn up the volume to blast The Joshua Tree while looking at this gorgeous landscape.

Any place I missed? Comment below!

My Life as a "Mom"

I'm writing today's blog from Grit Coffee in Crozet, where I'm simultaneously career networking and babysitting my little brother and sister.

I don't mention Liam and Susie a lot, at least not enough considering what an important part of my life they are. For the past ten years (almost!) they have been lighting up my life with their smiles, adorable comments and little pencil drawings they send me.

Having a brother and sister so much younger than myself (Liam will be turning 10 at the end of October; Susie will be eight in April) has come with its own set of complications. I've babysat from the time I was fourteen, but the job is ongoing when two of the kids live at home with you. I have to monitor the music I listen to around them, check IMBD for parental warnings on the movies I watch with them (because ratings won't tell you everything you need to know), and I don't even allow them near the internet after an expletive popped up under the Doctor Who memes Liam was scrolling through online.

Yeah, I'm more than just a babysitter. Some days I feel more like their mom than an older sibling.

Part of it is the age difference, partly their adopted introduction to our family. Both came to us as babies, so my mom, dad, Colin and me are the only family they've ever known. My mom has always been a busy parent; between homeschooling and leading ministries through our church and community, she doesn't have as much time as she'd like to spend with Susie and Liam. Which meant I took on a lot of the responsibilities when I lived at home.

I was there when Liam fell out of his rocking chair at nine months and cut his chin, and was frantically trying to staunch the bleeding and hoping my baby brother wouldn't die while under my supervision. (Fortunately he survived.) I was there for the toddler fevers, temper tantrums and sleepy meltdowns, as well as their first times rolling over, riding bikes and watching Doctor Who (a decision I'm still proud of, despite hearing Whovian references every time we're together).

I guess it's because I was there for so many firsts that I can become really sad when I miss out on other big moments in their lives. Like Liam's first loose tooth. Susie's first day of school. When they call me to talk about discovering a turtle in the backyard or going to park after a school day I just wish I had been there.

I don't want to be there for just the big moments: I want to be there for all the moments. And I know that can't happen as much as I want it to.

So I live for these little moments like having one on either side of me in the coffee shop drawing pictures of cats and R2-D2 while I write. Because being their big sister, their second "mom," is the best feeling in the world.  

10 Picks for Fall Reading

This past summer was spent traveling to and from DC, with side trips to Richmond, Asheville and NYC. So busy, in fact, that I never got to my summer reading list. Therefore, I've switched my reading period to fall. Here are my ten favorite picks - some that I've read multiple times, some I can't wait to pick up for the first read - for fall (or any season) reading:

The Screwtape Letters

 
Currently the book on my nightstand. Screwtape combines Lewis' wit with a glimpse into the mind of the Enemy.

Read if: you want a theological read or a witty novel on demons' plans to corrupt the human race

Wonderful Tonight



This autobiography is so thrilling that I go back and read it at least twice a year. Told by the former wife of George Harrison and Eric Clapton, this book is a fabulous view into the life of one of the 60's greatest models.

Read if: you love fashion, the Beatles or a love story without the happily-ever-after.

American Gods



Any of Gaiman's work is exceptional and American Gods is perhaps his greatest. The old gods brought to America by immigrants go to war against the new gods of media and technology.

Read if: your interests include mythology and fantasical cross-country trips. Immediately follow with the next Gaiman that catches your eye.

The World of Wanderlust



Brooke Saward gave up her career in 2012 and began to travel the world. Her autobiography explores the spark that incited her career path and where it's taken her.

Read if: you want to travel the world, or bring as an accompaniment on your jet trip.

Wild



Another travel memoir, this one with darker strings to the past.

Read if: you're considering a hundred-plus mile hike along the West Coast, or if you're looking to make some big life changes.

The Secret History of Fantasy



Unquestionably the best book I ever bought for undergrad courses, this collection contains multi-faceted stories by Stephan King, Ursula Le Guin and Neil Gaiman. "Sleight of Hand," the editor's contribution, is the saddest, most beautiful short fantasy I've ever read.

Read if: you're just branching into fantasy or are trying to find a favorite author within the genre.

The Picture of Dorian Gray



A horror story with witty comebacks. Wilde's only novel is well before its time with a hero who trades his soul to remain young forever.

Read if: you want to experience a thrill beyond vampires and things that go bump in the night. Just...don't get your portrait done, ever.

The Devil in the White City



The chilling true story of the architect who designed the Chicago World's Fair in 1893 and serial killer Dr. H. H. Holmes who used the attraction of the World's Fair to draw victims into his Murder Castle.

Read if: you're a fan of history and/or Jack the Ripper tales and find the most exciting stories the ones that actually happened. Also, be ready for the Martin Scorsese adaption coming out soon with Leonardo diCaprio as Dr. Holmes!

Bridget Jones' Diary



The best of modern takes on Pride and Prejudice, this journal-style book is widely funny and relatable to anyone who's ever failed their New Year's goals.

Read if: you need a reminder that you could have done so much worse in life. Or just need a laugh every line read.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy



Introduced to me by my wonderful boyfriend, this sci-fi spoof is the funniest thing I've ever read. When you start noticing all the Hitchhiker's references in pop culture (and real life) you can't forget them.

Read if: just read it. You won't regret it, I promise.

What's on your fall reading list? Comment below!

Fashion and Freelancing

Hello readers!

Sorry for my lack of presence online - it's been a busy few days!

My internship with Deux Hommes kicked in yesterday morning with one of NYFW's first shows; the article should be up soon!

As I'm waiting for the pictures for my next show to come through, I'm scrolling through Pinterest making up my long list of possible Fall outfits:





Oversized sweaters and skinny jeans...



Autumn hues in feminine styles (of course, the top knot)...



Patterned leggings and leather...

I've always been addicted to chic autumn style, but being a fashion writer makes me want to really step up my game. Sure, I can be writing articles in my pajamas and no one will know, but it feels like going against the system.

So this autumn I'm making a firm resolution to dress the part of a fashionist. Because in writing, if the inspiration doesn't come from within yourself, where are you?

Now I'm not one of those girls who takes the full-mirror selfie, so I used the help of Pinterest (of course) for a rundown of my favorite fall trends:

Skater-skirts and boots



Girly-girl meets edgy.

Re-worked summer dresses



Just because it's chilly doesn't mean you have to put your favorite sundresses away.

Mini-skirts and leggings



Tacky alone, chic together. Especially with leather boots.

Flannel 



It pulls this whole outfit together and gives off a bit of Amy Pond vibe.

Scarves



Especially when it provides a pop of color in a neutral ensemble.

Bring on nippy weather and Pumpkin Spice lattes!

Cheers,
Victoria

The Devil Wears Gongini

In my flurry of job applications and writing samples, I added in a few applications to magazine internships. The benefits being a) many companies want to hire a new recruit to their company with at least two- three years experience (more than I have unless you count my pre-college writing which, trust me, no one wants to read that) and b) with minimal expenses and lots of time for writing on my hands, now is a great time to gain that necessary experience!

So, as long as I'm applying to magazines, I'm not just aiming for small publications. And that's how I ended up applying to magazines like ELLE, Rolling Stone and Deux Hommes. (If you're going to aim for your dreams, aim high. Even if you fall short, you're going to land something great.) My "something great" is more along the lines of Lucky Magazine, my favorite fashion consultant throughout high school and college, which in my mind is still a dream job.

So, imagine my surprise when I checked my inbox an hour later and found a response from the managing editor of Deux Hommes (!!!!)!

"Thank you for your interest in Deux Hommes! To better gauge your fashion writing abilities, I would like to have you complete a trial article on the designer below."

(I may have screamed for three minutes or so whilst hugging my extremely confused kitten.)

The designer of choice was Barbara I Gongini, who I was unfamiliar with, but immediately looked up to get a view of her Spring/Summer 2016 collection.

Oh...

"Ready to Wear" where??

This is not Lucky Mag...

I felt like Andy, the Anne Hathaway character in the Devil Wears Prada, when she gets a lecture in how fashion influences everything. Except I actually recognize the difference between the two blue belts... This Gongini was way out of my fashion knowledge.

But if this is fashion, I have to know how to write about it. So I tackled this first assignment of Halloween Goth meets Runway.

The first couple attempts were hard. How can you construe this look as "Ready to Wear"? These designs resemble more of something you'd see at the VMA's, not hanging in a closet. I spent two hours working on the project and got three sentences in. (Beginning of coffee/tea overdose.)

A few hours and countless cups of caffeine later, I hit a breakthrough. Well, really it was more of how to see this from Miranda Priestly (aka Gongini's) POV. 

Fashion is art first and foremost. Designers draw inspiration from a wide range of different elements; in Gongini's case, from the Nordic landscape of Denmark where she studied design. Thus, these inspirations may seem at least foreign to the viewer unfamiliar with the designer's culture and background. The other big thing was I have to convey the designer's intentions to the audience. Which means I had to get inside the mind of Barbara I Gongini and write about her fashions the way Miranda would describe the process of how the color cerulean made it into Andy's sweater.

First, I asked myself a series of questions: How is this spring/summer fashion? Why neutrals? How can open weave be convincing as street fashion (because, let's be honest, someone will be rocking that kilt thing in a matter of months). 

If I was going to convince the managing editor (and my imaginary audience) to take my opinion seriously, I knew I had to believe in it myself. Looking critically at the designs, I found aspects that I could appreciate: flowing short trousers to combat the heat, striped patterns to include some light hues and a lot of gorgeous draping. Seriously, I fell in love with that flowy, cross-body tunic and pinned it on my "too expensive, but oh I'd love to own you" board. And as I kept writing, I actually did believe my own comments on the collection.

This exercise not only changed my viewpoints on high fashion, but also made me appreciate Anne Hathaway's character more. 

I always try to relate to the heroine, but in The Devil Wears Prada, Andy always seemed to me to be a major pushover. She didn't really care about her opportunity to work for Runway, which to me was a major WTF factor. We're talking Vogue equivalent here, girl, and you can't even put on a pair of Valentinos?? Plus, keeping your mouth shut around the head editor is common knowledge. Honestly, for the first twenty minutes of the movie I just want to cry watching Andy stumble over the simplest assignments.

Post-Stanley Tucci makeover Andy is much better ; she actually has the initiative to put 120% into her job and it's paying off. Meryl Streep gives her a nod of approval and even allows her to drop off the Book (although this leads to another "What the hell are you thinking, Andy?" moment). Despite that minor messup, Andy pulls through, contacts Simon Baker to get hold of the unpublished Harry Potter, and bam! keeps her job.

It's around here that I get into the grey area: the inevitable romantic storyline.  Let me say up front: I do not like Andy's boyfriend. At all. Maybe it's from knowing a similarly douchey Nate, or maybe it's just because the guy is selfish. He makes fun of her job, doesn't appreciate her efforts to better succeed in the fashion industry and makes stupid purchases like $3 per strawberry. (Alright, maybe he was exaggerating, but really.) The weight of the storyline leans on the big question: will Andy stick with her boyfriend or give him up for her career. Either way, she's going to either be portrayed as a heartless workaholic or a pushover.

I'm a hopeless romantic. But there's nothing romantic about sticking with someone who's going to undermine your goals and criticize you for trying to succeed. So when Andy doesn't end it with foodie-freak Nate I'm really upset. The way she handled the whole Paris trip wasn't the best either. It's not until she throws her phone in the fountain and flies back to New York that I can sympathize with her. 

I'm not saying that every person who enters the fashion industry goes on this roller coaster of trying to balance the mindset of a non-fashionist with that of a Prada executive. Having said that, being placed in this position, you have to be able to think outside of your own mindset and appreciate the efforts of the designer in order to succeed in the fashion world. 

Anyway, I'm excited for this prospect and can't wait to see to see where this opportunity leads!

Cheers,

Victoria

Living it Up in FredVegas

Today many of my friends returned to classes at University of Mary Washington, leaving me feeling life I'm missing out on the best part of my life (which I probably am). Sure, I might not miss research papers and exams. But it's very weird not seeing the UMW student body and being on campus. Or in Fredericksburg for that matter.

I love Fredericksburg. It feels like home, even if I moved four months ago. I love the blend of quiet downtown and shopping in Central Park. I miss the perfect equi-distance between Richmond and DC. Mostly, I just really miss my spots in FredVegas (the twenty-something's favorite term of endearment).

Blackstone Coffee

Could I be any more open about my love for Blackstone?? This independently owned coffee shop has enough caffeine creations to rival Starbucks, minus the corporate feel. Local art is displayed over the tables, they have music nights throughout each month, and their monthly theme specials are A.Maz.Ing. Especially the How I Met Your Mother drinks for the month of August!

BlarneyStone 

FredVegas has no shortage of bars, but BlarneyStone will always be my favorite. Located on downtown's Irish Block (not really, but there's an Irish shop and J. Brian's pub so kind of), BlarneyStone is everything you want for an evening of craic (aka Irish fun). My favorite is the Snakebite (half cider, half Guinness) but also try the Irish Car Bomb and Shane's Golden Irish. BlarneyStone also has a nice display of Philadelphia Eagles' swag behind the bar, which makes it my necessary retreat away from Redskins and Cowboys overload.

Ladyburg

Ladyburg is the best spot to shop because I spend so much money but because the products are natural and necessary it's almost guilt-free. Ladyburg sells a variety of soaps, body scrubs, lotions and more in more scents than you can keep track of. And if they don't have the scent you want, use the blending bar! Girls, you will spend all your money, I'm warning you. Guys, take note.

Hyperion Espresso 

If you need a change from Blackstone or want coffee downtown, Hyperion is the place to go. It has a hipster atmosphere which makes it an ideal place for study dates and people watching. Their monthly specials are a little more specific to how many drinks you want to try with the flavor of the month (Peppermint? Blueberry? Lavender?) but I love trying out the unique results. If you want to know how great Hyperion is, my roommate and I used to walk the mile from our apartment each snow day for mochas.

University of Mary Washington

Yeah, we were eventually going to end up here. If you're a Mary Wash student, alum or faculty member you understand. Mary Washington is possibly (no, definitely) the most beautiful campus I've ever seen. We have brick buildings with columns in a gorgeous park-like layout. Whether you're a student or not walking through the campus is always worth it. Plus, for you soon to be freshmen, we have some incredible majors, a great student body and the nicest professors you will ever meet. Go Eagles!!!

Tell me your favorite place in Fredericksburg or your hometown in the comments!

Cheers,

Victoria

Struggling in the Blank Space

It's mid August, and I keep thinking I need to buy my textbooks and move back on campus for another year at uni. Instead, I'm sending out countless resumes and and updating my LinkedIn on almost a daily basis.

I knew before graduating that the transition from college to adulting in the real world would be an adjustment, but I had no idea how hard it really would be. Of course, I was planning on letting grad school provide that middle link between the two. Now I feel lost between the security of college and the unknown of a career.

I know that hundreds of students from my Class of 2015 at UMW (multiplied by hundreds of schools across the country) are dealing with the same struggle. But it doesn't feel universal. Most of the time I feel like I'm on my own and somehow all other '15 graduates have figured it out by now.

Being jobless (full time, anyway) and living at home with three younger siblings and two loud dogs has made me question if I even want to stay within a career based in my hometown. Wanderlust has always had a huge impact on my life and right now I feel like I'm getting a lot of messages, some indirect, some through my newsfeed on Facebook to break out of my comfort zone and travel the world:

"You should walk the Camino with me."

"Who wants to go hike volcanoes with me in December?"

"Let's go to Geneva."

As you may recall I'm not an adventurer, but more than ever I have the urge to experience life from a new perspective other than job hunting-recent-graduate. There's only one small problem: my bank account. And it's way smaller than I'd like.

I know people who won't let their bank account stop them from traveling to London, Guatemala and all other far corners of the world, and I wish I could be like them. For me, it's like for every reason I want to travel I have ten reasons I shouldn't. The possibility that I might get a job. Making the long-distance relationship with my boyfriend even farther. Being away from any security I know. The possibility of being alone.

                                       This photo was taken in Rio de Janerio, my first big experience in traveling the world. 

It's not like I haven't taken chances before. I traveled to South America for a mission trip knowing only two people in my group. I traveled from Staunton to NYC with my brother to see U2 not even completely certain that our tickets would be there. I majored in a degree which many people, including my mom, told me I'd never find a job in. Each of these was a big risk. But somehow it wasn't enough to quell my fear of the unknown.

I'm scared of taking chances, and I know the only way for me to experience something great is by taking that initial step forward. Whether it's for my dream job or my dream lifestyle. Finding your dream means breaking away from all the concerns holding you back and finding the confidence to look at each day and say "I might not know what I'm doing, but I know where I want to go."

So You Want to Date A Writer...

Shortly after my boyfriend and I started dating, I sent him this link:

10 Essential Tips to Dating a Writer

The list doesn't exaggerate; writers are a weird lot. We feel things deeply, take inspiration from everything around us and write about it, and coffee is our life fluid. Being a writer I don't see these as negatives, but I also recognize the many cons to being a writer.

So here's my list of 10 Essential Warnings to Being in a Relationship/Friendship/Family with a Writer:

1) We're the most distracted people you'll ever meet. 
The only reason I'm getting this blog written now is because my boyfriend conned me into doing it and is currently tormenting me with pictures of cupcakes. Writers put things off because they are distracted by everything. This means deadlines are a necessary torture we have to adhere to because we'd never get anything done. Distraction doesn't apply just to writing either. Writers will come up with the most brilliant plot twist in the middle of a very serious conversation about life decisions, which will no doubt infuriate the other person. It's not that we're not listening to you; it's just that there are a million thoughts going through our heads at any given moment.

2) We can flip between emotions unpredictably.
Sometimes we need space. Quite often, actually. But just as often we can't stand to be alone. There will be times when we demand silence because we can't hear ourselves think, and times when we blast the Lord of the Rings soundtrack on repeat because it puts us in the mood to write. I swear, we're not crazy (well, not that much...).

3) Sometimes we don't want to write.
You know those characters who can't put their pen down at any given moment and produce pages of beautiful writing like it's no problem? We hate them with a vengeance because there is no way we can do that. Sure, there are times when we stay up all night writing what seems to us to be an amazing storyline. But we go through days, sometimes longer, when we'd rather do anything but write. It takes all the energy out of us and we just need a break.

4) We can become depressed for no apparent reason.
Maybe it's because no one is responding to the piece we sent out to lit journals a month ago. Maybe we're stuck in a writing rut. Maybe it's because we've read a book so beautiful that we think we can't possibly reach that level of perfection. A lot of things can cause us to doubt our ability as writers and it can send us into a low point that seems impossible to break. (This, however, isn't okay. DO NOT let your writer sulk in an unending depression. See point 10)

5) We revel in and dream the impossible.
This is perhaps why so many writers love fantasy - we love the thought of dragons, quests and surviving in post-apocalyptic civilizations. This doesn't mean that all writers want to write fantasy, but each of us does have an impossible dream we want desperately to achieve. This can stem from traveling the world to owning a polar bear. Encourage all "impossible" goals your writer dreams of, but do emphasize the dangers of possessing a polar bear.

6) Our creativity isn't limited to writing.  
Or at least we want to believe that. Writers will expand their creativity to dance, painting, sketching, music, photography, etc. This doesn't mean it's going to be good. But it's a great way to take a break from writing and allow our ideas to flow through a different outlet.

7) We won't always write about you.
If you don't turn up in our novel, it's not that we don't care. If anything it's because we care too much about you. It's easy to write about the people and the situations which have hurt us, but when it comes to writing about the people we care about, we are much more cautious. Writers tend to express their emotions through writing, and we don't want to hurt those we care about through our writing. (That doesn't mean that you don't inspire our writing though; it may not be in entire scene form, but bits of conversation and scenarios will come up a lot.)

8) We need a change of pace.
Sure, routine is great, but writers can easily find it restrictive. Sometimes doing the same thing everyday, day after day, can drive us insane and cause writer's block and other ugly things. We love doing spontaneous things to break up routine, from day trips and nights out to a trip to our favorite coffee shop (or the new one on the block if our favorite is part of the daily routine). We love the people who are willing to join us on our crazy adventures, and we'll love you even more if you plan the spontaneous trips with us.

9) We love constructive criticism.
Note: this does not mean tell us everything we write is terrible or judge us for what we write; there's nothing constructive in that. But we realize that not everything we write is publishable and we don't expect you to think it's perfect. That's not to say we don't appreciate hearing our work is good, but when you give a suggestion for a scene to flow better or ask for clarification it shows us that you actually read our work and cared about it enough to offer suggestions to make it better.

10) We need lots of support and encouragement.
Writers love deeply and are fiercely supportive of the people they love. But we also need a lot of encouragement. It's so easy for us to become really hard on ourselves, and just knowing that someone is at side is sometimes the only thing that keeps us going. We're going to love you so much for that.

So...if you think you can handle all of the above, go ahead and date your writer! It'll be worth it, I promise.

Cheers,
Victoria