Friday, July 19, 2013

Walking contradiction !@#$%^&*

The thing about life is I'll never be sure about it. And maybe that's the beauty. Not completely understanding. But living anyway. 

There will always be moments, days, weeks, where I feel like I've failed. One day, I'll have this really great day. And the next day? Well, it may not be that great. Sometimes I change my mind, my feelings, my views. It's a roller coaster personality. But conflict within is imperfect. It's what makes us weird and unpredictable. And I love that. 

If everyone was sure about everything...life wouldn't be so spicy. And sometimes we all need that little kick, because it makes every second worth it. 

Open a Webster's dictionary. You won't find my name. You won't find yours either. We can't be defined. Because we are growing each and every day. With every challenge, tragedy, loss, and happy ending...we grow into this better version of ourselves. Always improving. Always changing. But never giving up. Never quite certain of what is to come. 

I've come to the conclusion that I just don't make sense. I've spent so much time trying to figure out who I really am. Having this belief that you have to know who you are. Preaching that in order to be whole you must love yourself. You must be secure with the person you are. What I've realized, though, is that this isn't true. 

The real truth is that insecurity is part of being a human being. And if all of us were secure in every aspect of our lives, this society would be perfect. Lindsay Lohan would never have tried drugs. Beyonce would never have made a movie, confessing to the world that even she doesn't feel confident sometimes. Politicians wouldn't have to pick each other a part for a vote. There would be more plus size models. And you wouldn't be reading this right now.

If each of us truly embraced who we are and loved our flaws...then we wouldn't wear makeup. We wouldn't flip on the TV only to see commercial after commercial marketing self-improvement products. Like the newest anti-aging cream. Or the magical mascara that will lengthen lashes. That will make you more beautiful than you already are.

The truth is, we are all a work in progress. Life is a work in progress. And we are all a little insecure. And what I've come to realize--is... that's okay.

In this great life, (and I do mean great), we are walking contradictions. Just remember- it's a human quality. And it's beautiful- just..like...YOU! 

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Conversation, Google, and Grandpa.

Creativity gives me a way to contribute a little bit of my weirdness to the world. And I don't know what it is about a good old fashion "do it yourself" kind of project- but I LOVE taking something ordinary and making it quirky.

Bringing some much needed life back into used and forgotten items reminds me that nothing is a lost cause. It reminds me that there is an unconditional hope for anything and anyone. No matter how beaten up..or ugly..or unconventional..with some TLC and a smile it's totally possible. 

While scrolling through Google images, looking at ideas for decorating, I stumbled upon this super awesome end table made from recycled books. It was brilliant. And I thought, I have to try to do this! Not knowing the amount of brain power this new adventure was going to take.

After a hefty workout, my cousin Katie and I took a trip to our local Goodwill. Just so happens books were on sale for some ridiculously cheap amount. Score! We tried to grab for inspiring titles like, "Color your Future..Fearless and Flawless...City of Dreams..." I was going for an inspirational piece. 

I'm sure I looked completely crazy as I was creating this end table from this vision I had in my head. Right there, on the Goodwill floor...this thing was really starting to come to life! Woo-hoo! So, I ended up with about 20 books and a serious arm workout. 

Once I got the books home I realized this would be harder than I thought. I left them on the front porch for a solid week- pondering how in the heck I was going to pull this off. Then, I called the man who knows everything- my grandpa. He accepted the challenge without any questions. My dad lined up the parts needed. All I had to do was put them in my car and head over to grandpa's. 

My brother helped, too. He was designated driller. Grandpa was the brains behind the operation. And me, well, I guess I was just the one with the picture in my head. We worked for around 2 hours total. Drilling and gluing and cutting. It was the best 2 hours, ever! Bonding with my grandpa and brother. Working as a team. Laughing and cracking jokes. Figuring out the complicated end table together. Well, it was a memory that I'll always treasure. 

This "do it yourself" project turned into a "do it together" one...and I wouldn't have had it any other way. That book end table, that no one really understood at first, took on a new life. And gave me some unforgettable moments in return. And you can bet your bottom.. this conversation piece will stay in the family for awhile. 

Quality time. So simple. Yet, sometimes, so neglected. Getting caught up in our own schedules and not making time for those who are most important- well, it happens more often than it should. And I'm a repeat offender. But from now on, I'm going to try my VERY BEST to make time for my favorites. Because they are the ones who put the happiness in my heart and the genuine smiles on my face. 

So, thank you Google images...for reminding me that in this great life, the only thing guaranteed is time. So instead of watching it pass, let's make it count.

Wishing you a day as beautiful as you are!


 Completed Vision.