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!