Elle Enchanted

A difficult post to write

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:14:00 +0000

Hey Lovely Readers. It sure has been a while. I've been MIA with school and other things, and have done a lot of thinking. I am blessed to have shared a wonderful year and a half with the blogging world, albeit with my frequent absences. Lately, I've been thinking about how connected the world is, and how we've thus lost touch with our natural surroundings, and how much time I spend doing what could be considered to be nothing at all (not blogging, but other things in the online world). I've learned a lot in the last year and a half, and I know readers want someone that they can connect with, and get frequent (at least weekly) content from. And that isn't me. I don't have the fair amount of time to devote to the site, and I really need to cut back on my commitments in life in order to focus more on my goals. I love each and every one of you, and I won't be disappearing fully. I will still be over on Twitter, and will definitely keep reading all your lovely blogs. My domain remains active till April, and then I'll be closing down the site, but you can always reach me via email at enchantedelle@gmail.com. I permanently threw in the towel and deleted my facebook as well, but if you need to reach me, DM me on twitter, and I'll tell you how. Thanks for an amazing time. Keep being you, beautiful and true. And who knows, maybe some day I'll be back. :)
Love Always,
Elle

Home Sweet Home

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I'm a pretty crafty person - I used to be an art student (not in college), and have always loved drawing and collaging. I've posted in the past about my dorm room decorations (I'm too lazy to dig in my archives and find the post, which probably had crappy pictures taken on my cell phone). I like the look of a quirky decorated space that reflects a person's personality. I haven't always been this way, but necessity has also driven me to love organization and clean spaces. I have this thing where I am constantly tweaking things, so these photos were taken a few days ago, and there are already a couple differences but these represent the basics of my new decor in my room at home, which I share with my sister. I definitely wanted to make this place my own, as I went to college a few months after we moved to this apartment! A few people expressed interest in seeing what I'd done, so here it is.

Yes, I'm a 19 year old with stuffed animals. So for these boards above my bed, I chose a color scheme with three of my favorite colors- cerulean, neon green, and purple (it is a lot brighter than the plum that shows here, and is sparkly!). There is also a bit of mint green and silver. The letters in the silver on top say think. And the crystals are in the shape of a moon like the one on bottom right board, which has musical notes! (Perhaps, I should have taken detail pictures... but then there would be so many! I put up different words that mean a lot to me, and one board also say Don't Stop Believing. I have an AIDS ribbon, a movie stub, concert ticket, photos, postcards, and a drawing from my cousin! I chose leopard print ribbon in honor of Anika. The keys on the wall are actually a puzzle from my aunt, the gold cord on my head board is from my high school graduation. I'm a sucker for sentimental things. I've done many decorative collages in the past and I think these are my favorites.

The top of my dresser. Jewelry, bubbles, a card from my boyfriend, photos with my parents, my piggy bank from I was little, which is actually a puppy, jewelry boxes, figurines, baby Elle, my mom's mirrored tray, and my favorite- a Parisian style clock that says Hotel Noir! Also visible- part of my Alice in Wonderland poster.

My half of the double desk, and my neon green office chair, decorated with an old scarf of my mom's! I have a coaster to prevent ruining my white Ikea desk. Also my last board, with an Emerson quote, movie references, skeletons that dance, Moscow, and the background is glittery and I painted on a purple honey comb background, that just won't photograph.

This photo was taken after the one above it. I told you I edit. I jazzed up my pencil cup (filled mostly with markers, I have an obsession) and my whiteboard with cerulean leopard ribbon. I have a little letter holder with a postcard from Britain, and a little snow globe about dreams from a friend, and my coaster as I constantly sip tea at my desk. Also, the little box with the piggy is my sewing kit for quick repairs!

My poster, a coat rack I hung for bags, a bag decorated by my big, and my bedside table. Hey Steph, I see your card! Fun fact: I made that coat rack in 6th grade woodshop class! Bet schools don't do that kind of stuff anymore ;).

Have a nice day everyone, I go back to school bright and early Monday- so much to do, so little time.

-Elle

Hello Tomorrow (And some Brutal Honesty)

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Around the blog world, many are posting recaps of 2011, and how wonderful it was. Want my truth? 2011 was by far the worst year of my life. While I've only been alive for 19 years, and that isn't something I should have to say, it's true. I had major issues in every important area of life except for health: family, school, relationship, money, friends, and religion. My mom died, among other things. And now, not once but twice, I've almost lost the person that means the most to me besides my Dad and sister. So quite frankly, I'd rather not reflect on this year, in fact I would much rather fast forward to the next. Pretty much every year of my life save for the first 2, seem to have brought about huge momentous change in my life- my life has never been stationary. Change is one of those pesky things that you can never tell will be good or bad, until you try it for yourself, and it is too late to take it back. Change is only inevitable, in a world as volatile as today's.

My Christmas outfit. I should have tugged on the dress once more before taking this photo. Oh well.

Rather than being afraid of it, for 2012, I embrace it. I am ready for change. This is something that rarely happens. But after losing a lot this year, I have full confidence, that is time for something to change, and I'd like to hope it'll be a change for the better. I used to be really big on resolutions for the New Year, as well as those made over birthday cake candles, but since my biggest resolutions and wishes never came true, a couple of years ago, I stopped making them all together.
Rather than wallowing over failure, or over thinking the past, I'd like to set small goals for 2012- and rather than by year, which I've always found to be vague, easily forgotten, and not necessarily attainable- I'd like to break them down by month.
January:
-Begin volunteering at the local VA- I've already gone through the application process, and am scheduled for orientation in a couple weeks! (Let me tell you, these people know procedure, and are so precise...)
-Read a bit for each subject or do practice problems/homework (depending on the class), for half hour a day each, for every class (except labs), every day Sunday-Thursday.
-Contact someone on the admissions board at my top choice school for Pharmacy- just to introduce myself- and find a good question to ask.
-Pack my lunch at least 3 times a week.
-Visit a professor's office- and not just when I need help.
-This one is actually for everyday this year, if I can help it- Tell my boyfriend I love him everyday (we're not sure when we'll get to see each other again.)
-Follow a budget. I've already started writing it.
February:
-Write detailed list of schools I want to apply for, and figure out the remaining requirements for each. Find back-up programs in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Public Health.
-Find a pharmacist to talk to even if I can't shadow them (thank you HIPAA).
-Have fun at least once this month- go to a movie with friends, or bowling, or laser tag- something, anything, with my friends here.
-Wear lipstick once in a while, just because I can. That, and red lipstick gives me confidence.

Christmas dinner, though my dad's chicken is missing, as is the vegetarian gravy, & the salad is invisible (it's in the container!).

March:
-Have breakfast at least twice a week.
-Learn how to make at least one new dish.
-Tell someone a compliment every day. Sometimes, it's just nice to be nice.
-Write a blog post at least once a week.
April:
-Get 85 or higher on every final exam.
-Have an awesome Relay for Life experience- and stay the whole night (this shouldn't be too hard, I'm on the exec board, I'm supposed to stay, I have a speech to give...).
-Run for a leadership position.
-Apply to at least 10 jobs in preparation for summer!
May:
-Visit the library.
-Take a day trip somewhere, anywhere really.
-Talk to someone I haven't in a while.
-Try to make a new friend. Talk to people more.
-Apply for a research position. Even if I don't think I can get it.
June:
-Study at least 45 minutes a day for my PCAT.
-Buy myself one new thing (could be anything at all, as long as it's not edible), just because I deserve it.
July:
-Retake the PCAT, and do better than last time.
-Begin my application process, ask for a recommendation.
-Swim once a week.
August:
-Host a birthday celebration. Because 20 deserves to be celebrated.
-Buy a new planner.
-Find 5 minutes every day to be silly, and not take life so seriously.
-Submit my early action application.
September:
-Handle the 18 credits of school I'll have to take, without cracking or breaking down. Because I am smart enough, and I can do this. I just need to manage my time well.
October:
-Bake a birthday cake from scratch. (my sister and dad have birthdays this month!)
-Walk the Breast Cancer walk.
-Do something related to Fall. Though Florida doesn't really have a Fall, I'm sure I can find something.
November:
-Vote for the first time!
-Host Thanksgiving dinner. I don't know yet if this one is possible, but I really hope it is!
December:
-Buy a present for someone, not because they got me one, but because I want to.
-Do yoga during finals week.

And one fun one, that I won't rank into a month. Go stargazing. Because it's a beautiful world out there, and sometimes we just need to admire it.
What's on your agenda for the New Year? And New Year's Eve plans? I'm probably going to catch some fireworks by the beach with my dad!

-Elle

Better Late than Never: What's in my Purse?

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:41:00 +0000

Hey Guys! Hope your holiday weekend was amazing- I'll have more on mine later (I have so many post ideas now)! A few months ago everyone was doing posts on what's in their purses, and I loved them, but never got around to it. This week, I finally got around to taking and editing photos! It helps that I now have a purse I love (purchased at the end of the summer).

I didn't want to bore you guys with individual pictures so I grouped them together. Clockwise from top left: post-its (I often use them to add stuff onto my planner), pens (these are the Delta Elite from Staples, which I love), below them is my phone headphones, then my new Windows phone courtesy of the folks at Klout, a little notebook for important notes, along with my flash drive which is actually made out of recycled bamboo- how cool is that?! Then there is my Coach wristlet, a Christmas gift from my sophomore year of high school, 5 years ago, and still in great condition. And lastly, a little silver mirror my mom gave me, with the breast cancer ribbon.

My make-up arsenal in my bag (not really). From left: A red lipstick- nothing too fancy, but the color is amazing, doesn't dry, and lasts long, so thanks N.Y.C. A lip shimmer from Burt's Bees in watermelon, which for me is a nude! Lotion. And a Wet n Wild lip gloss in the perfect shade of pink.

My beloved planner. No, that's not black tape, that's my best attempt at editing out my name hahaha. Seriously though, this was the best 2.99 I've ever spent. Organized my life so much when I got a job this summer. I love Target.

And lastly, the bag. Funny story- I'd been staring at this bag in grey for almost 3 years. It was $32 and I could never justify spending that much on something I didn't need. Then this summer, I found my old purse wearing down to the point my sister pointed it out (and she only does this when it's absolutely necessary). So I went to Target and imagine my shock when I saw my beloved Converse One Star bag on clearance for $8.74. I almost got a bigger one, but this is just fine- it even fits my netbook.

So what are your bag essentials? I usually have pocket tissue too, but didn't on this day.

And how was your holiday? Any fabulous gifts? This post was inspired by Katy's recent post on her bag!

-Elle

Oh Santa Baby

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 01:50:00 +0000

I normally don't make Christmas lists, but as I'm that person who fills their online shopping baskets with things they'd love to have if only they could afford them, I figured I'd share some of my finds with you guys, and for what it's worth, I think these would make fantastic gifts for certain types of people.... And because I don't like being overly extravagant (and most gifts aren't super expensive), these are all $50 or less. What's on your wish list this year? Let me know in the comments.
1) A single cup coffee maker with a filter so you don't have to use pods... this would save me so much money...
Currently coveting this one from Brookstone: Nice and simple, just the way I like it.

2) A Cuisinart food processor - Can you tell I like to cook? This is starting to sound more like a wedding registry than the wishlist of a college student. But in all seriousness, my family has two blenders and no food processor and the other day I found a recipe that sounded amazing, but required a food processor. And those chocolate cheesecake peppermint bars looked delicious....

3) A travel mug- My boyfriend broke mine a few months ago and I haven't replaced it yet, but I so need to, I love drinking tea, and hey, would work great with that coffee maker right?

4) A white board. I am a nerd evidently. I need it for practice problems. My old one got ruined and had to be chucked.

5) A stylish lunch bag- Maybe then I'd be motivated to pack lunch more often, and save my money better! It's zebra, what more could I ask for?

New Directions

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Source

This post is a result of much deep thought recently, and a twitter conversation with the lovely B of Beautifully Invisible, Ashe of Dramatis Personae, Yvonne of Fashion Recon and a few others. It's no secret that I haven't been blogging much since this summer when my mom passed away. While it's true that I was busy studying and getting involved in some community service organizations, I often sat down to blog, started a post and came to the realization that I had nothing to say. I would start a post, and have it sit in draft for weeks, with no idea exactly what to write.
It's become clear to me that this will never be the personal style blog I envisioned it would be. I started this blog after following Sherin and Leia (both who I still follow and love) and College Fashion (which I've since stopped reading) for about a year and a half. I had a ever developing interest in style, quite a bit of free time on my hands, and a need for a creative outlet.
I have had life change drastically in the last 4 years, and this blog has seen me through some of my darkest hours, and some of my best ones. I still love writing, and I love reading everyone's blogs, and while I may not comment as much as I used to, I still lurk and admire many fashion and lifestyle blogs. Fashion just isn't ingrained in my routine, and part of that is because of moving back home, where my family maintains a very casual atmosphere, as I have mentioned before on the blog. I still enjoy dressing up (my new header photo is of a sweet little red dress with bedazzled neckline!) but I have no photographer here, or a tripod, and with my apartment currently covered with my mom's stuff we're sorting through, I don't really have a place to photograph. My views on many things in life have shifted, and I'm growing more into things that were just fleeting interests before
I don't want to quit blogging. I love you all too much for that. I will continue, but I can make no promises as to how often that will be. Blogging is one of the few things in my life that I don't want to have to schedule for.
My initial target audience for my blog was college students like myself. I found myself with mainly readers outside of that age group. While I love interacting with these readers, and hope to not lose them, I have finally come up with a "focus" of sorts for my blog that is not only more personal, but relates to me more, so I can be more inspired to write.
That said, the new tag line of my blog is "the story of a not so average college girl." This means while I may write on fashion from time to time, I'm not going to pretend that is the main focus of my blog. While I will most certainly still write lifestyle posts (wait, doesn't almost everything count as lifestyle these days?), they may be written with a spin towards the age set of 18-24. For those older than that, I would love for you to share your opinion and experiences with me and fellow readers. I love reading everyone's college stories, and many have great tips they don't really get to share on their own blogs (and hey, if you want to guest post here, let me know!). I am still interested in health, vegetarianism, style, and positive self image, and this is where the "not so average" comes in- so pretty much, if I have something to say on a subject, I'll say it, and hopefully you guys will enjoy the new direction here.
It's great to finally come to a decision as I've been wrestling with many ideas, including giving up blogging all together as I'll be a very busy person next semester, helping to plan a huge charity event (actually two!), taking 17 credits, and volunteering/and or working.
Here's to new beginnings. Welcome to Elle Enchanted, unscripted.
-Elle (oh yea, I've also dropped the xoxo, it's really not me.)
*Also, random clarification- Elle is a nickname, and is derived from my real first name. Feel free to guess away (but only if you don't know it already haha).
*Props if you read this entire post, I know it was a lot.

'Tis the Season (to be eating!)

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

There's 14 days till Christmas. I cannot believe how fast this year has been! It's been a big year of change for my family and I, from the loss of my mom, to me transferring colleges, and my dad becoming a student (again, that man just loves school too much- at any rate, I'm still super proud of him for starting a Doctorate program!). This year, my sister will be travelling, so it's just me and Dad, and I don't want it to feel any less like the holidays.
Things haven't been easy these last few months, with various issues I'd rather not bring up here. I want to make this a happy time... and you know what's one of the best ways to spread joy, that's universal to all people, whether they celebrate Christmas or not? FOOD! As a vegetarian, I often get asked what I eat during the holidays... if I have any more variety than meet the eye. No tofurkey for me here- I find ways to make vegetarian dishes fun, though not really guilt free (it's ok, I'm not on a diet...), and this year I really want to push myself, and make all, if not most things from scratch.
I want things to be really special, and though my dad isn't vegetarian, I don't really know how to cook meat so I'll leave the meat up to him (probably a roasted chicken!) and do everything else. I have already started to put together a massive menu. My plan is to cook things in smaller quantities, and plan for leftovers!
I'll probably edit this menu, because that's just the way I am (and I found my mom's recipes this week, here's hoping I can replicate some at some point). My mom was such a wonderful cook, and her specialty was by far her baking. As far as my baking from scratch goes, my only success has been oatmeal cookies (and the varieties of oatmeal cinnamon, and oatmeal chocolate chunk).
My Christmas Day Menu:
Rolls or biscuits- I'm rubbish at making bread type stuff (I can't even properly make pizza crust from the just add water package), so I might just use a mix for garlic cheese biscuits! Yum. Or I'll make them with this easy recipe I found through Michelle's blog.
Salad- a dark green spring mix with carrot swirls, sliced almost, and mandarin orange with olive oil.
Baked mac and cheese, southern style- a family tradition, and one of the first dinners I accomplished by myself.
Candied sweet potato- This is not your average candied sweet potato dish. No, this is mashed sweet potato with vanilla, pineapple juice, cinnamon and nutmeg, covered in crushed pineapple and baked. No need for brown sugar or marshmallows here! This was one of mommy's favorites.
Spicy roasted potatoes- This is one dish I make in the house that is guaranteed to be eaten in one night, by everyone in the house. I haven't made it recently because it's time consuming, but the results are oh so delicious. Potatoes, washed, diced and tossed in olive oil, white pepper, Adobo, season salt, cajun seasoning, cumin, and red pepper flakes and baked! I might take a page out of Liz's book and add asiago cheese... hmmm.
Tofu Tikka Masala- I'm debating whether of not I'm brave enough to attempt to make this my self, using this recipe, only swapping the meat for tofu instead.
For dessert, I have so many ideas. I'm going to end up making far too many sweet goodies in the days leading till Christmas- I can't wait to experiment! I want to make my own thin mint cookies, shortbread cookies (though my last batch of them went horribly wrong), chocolate cheesecake bars, my mom's chelsea buns, and some extremely delicious sounding coconut macaroons dipped in chocolate I saw on a Food Network video (I swear half my crazy food ideas come from Food Network...).
What's on your holiday menu?
Let me know in the comments. I know it's been a while, and I've been lurking much of the semester, but I'm here at least during my break. I love you all, and hope eveyone's doing amazing, I've talked to many of you via Twitter, but still- hello!
-Elle
p.s. I got a smartphone!!! Yay, I'm moving up in the Blogger world haha. =D

Reality vs Dream Wardrobe

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 19:37:00 +0000

A long time ago, a good friend of mine told me that my dream sense of style and the one I actually have based on the clothes you see me wear 90% of the time differ greatly. She's gone shopping with me many times, and has seen the things I gravitate to- and then what I ultimately buy, often limited by price. She also thought I toned down my creative side too much and often let convention get the better of me. I have to admit- my current wardrobe is not my dream one.

I must say- I am not afraid to wear what I want- if I had the money to have a wardrobe consisting of pretty blouses with things like lace or bows, t-shirts with cut outs and graphic prints (preferably abstract ones with patterns!), and my personal favorites- almost to the knee dresses in various shapes and styles, and a-line high waisted skirts with braided belts. Someday, I'll be able to buy my dream wardrobe, and ditch the cheap tanks, ill fitting jeans and replace them with things that will make me smile when I wear them.

This is not to say I hate my entire wardrobe, and possess none of the things I want to wear- I love many of my skirts and a few other items in my closet- if it didn't look ridiculous, I'd wear them all the time. However, my friend made it seem like the clothes I choose have a completely different persona... I am not too sure of this assumption- I feel like my style has a pretty clear point of view- that is of course on the days I get dressed for real in something besides the first clean t shirt and pair of jeans I see. I love dressing "up" and looking put together. Do you feel like life sometimes represses your style? My family sometimes mocks me when they seem me wearing that lace back reverse cowl shirt with a tank underneath, tucked in an a-line black skirt. I live in a very casual world- but I'm not afraid to wear what I want. The only thing is... sometimes I can't afford to buy that top or dress... even if it's just $20 or $30. I haven't gone clothes shopping besides for the essential underwear and basic tee in the last 9 months.

If you could wear anything you want what would it be? To me I'd have a rather eclectic style (wait, I already do) but I can totally see me in liquid leggings with a cool Aztec inspired tunic as well as in a knee length a-line polka dot skirt with a braided ivory belt, and a pretty top with buttons at the collar. I also still hold on to small pieces of my punk era in high school where I first discovered black eyeliner and red lip balm and skull and rose hoodies....

Could I see myself wearing that $9,000 McQueen dress I stare at every so often? As much as I love it- probably not- it's not in my aesthetic to wear something I could pay rent for a year with, or use to feed 300 families of 4 for 30 days in Africa...... Also, everyone's style evolves over time- what I liked two years ago, is not what I like now- can I replace my clothes that often? No. I build piece by piece, not all at once.... On the other hand, give me $1000 to make over my wardrobe, and I bet you I'd be able to buy at least 40 different pieces, and be totally and completely satisfied.
What would your dream shopping cart consist of? Would it be fabulously tailored pants and jackets? Or flowy skirts and cute little dresses and cardigans? Would it be high heeled motorcycle boots or ballet flats?

-Elle
P.S. Hi, how is everyone? I've been lurking for a while. I miss you guys!

It's Ok to Know You're Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 01:06:00 +0000

Growing up, I was constantly teased for one reason or another. I was never one of those popular kids everyone loved. I had a bad attitude sometimes that I fixed after middle school, during my first year of high school when I met a guy who changed my perspective on life in many ways (for the better), who remains a friend of mine today despite failed relationships and months of disconnect. In third grade, as a recent immigrant back to the U.S, I stuck out like a sore thumb, layering summer clothes to make it through the cold winter of New York City after 3+ years in Jamaica. I became the laughing stock pretty much, and from then on, I never really saw myself as beautiful. Then I heard it from people from time to time, in various forms, from cat calls from strangers, to guys I dated, and of course, from family. But my mind was so focused on the past it wouldn't let me believe it. And then at some point I convinced my self it would be selfish to think so. Conceited. Stuck up. Things I didn't want to be in life.

Want the truth though? It's okay, even great actually, to think you're beautiful and own who you are, as long as you can find the beauty in others as well (and we all know most of us in the blogging community can- look at all the compliments on pages to others!). I find beauty in people all the time- especially in so many of my fellow bloggers (I even mention some of you to friends - Amber, I have a friend who thinks you're absolutely gorgeous, just thought you should know that - and I totally agree, but he's a guy and I'm not ;).)

Be confident. I can say that I'm beautiful. I don't know if I fully believe it yet... but why shouldn't I? The people who called me ugly, the people who have called you ugly are simply bullies. Each and every single person has beauty in them- whether it's inside, outside, or both. We all have that friend we think is gorgeous who doesn't believe in themselves, who makes us want to shake them and say "ARE YOU BLIND?". But it should start first with ourselves- when you believe in you and all that you can do, you'll begin to believe in others, and when we believe in others, we're kinder, and the world becomes a friendlier place. A few days ago, i had the pleasure to see rapper Common give an inspirational speech to college students as part of his national book tour for his new book, One Day It'll all Make Sense. I'm not a huge fan of rap- there are very few people in that I truly have respect for, and Common is one of them (though my experience with his music is limited, I know him best for an amazing collaboration he did with Joss Stone who I love). He gave a speech on the three steps to greatness and the two things he stressed the most is that after you pick a path you must believe you can do that path. And then not only must you believe it, but you must LIVE it too. You put your heart and soul to a cause or an idea, and you think you're great at it, then others will believe in you too.

You must know for yourself that you are beautiful.
-Elle
P.S I'm backkkkk! =)

The Sweetest Soul You'd Ever Know

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 06:53:00 +0000

She was the sweetest soul I'd ever meet- loving and giving without expecting or wanting a thing in return. Selfless, generous and independent- three words every one who met her would use to describe her. She relied on no one but her God, the one she taught me to love from when I was very young. Her story is truly a testament to what one person can do to help others. From tutoring a friend of mine for free after meeting her mom at a PTA conference while we studied for a high school entrance exam, to feeding a homeless man before her own family dinner on Thanksgiving, to devoting 2 years to being a paraprofessional teaching kids from broken homes or with disabilities to read, write, do math and give them a place to call home at school- from packing lunches, buying them pizza, buying them books, and calling their parents, she did everything she could. From planning the wedding of a friend to helping another start a baking business (after teaching her how to bake a cake when she said she always wanted to), even getting her the first ten clients.

From helping the woman fired for her religion get basics needs and talking troublesome kids into turning their lives around, to cooking for every church gathering, to being a missionary, to flying to another country to see a friend who had a stroke, my mom always found ways to touch lives even when hers was falling apart, plagued with heath issues in recent years. She served food at her own surprise birthday party till we dragged her to a seat. She was always last to sit at the dinner table, and always first in line to offer her help for anything that needed to get done. She worked tirelessly to provide the best she could for her family, and despite all the problems, this is how I want her to be remembered. Just the gentle woman who could do so much- cook, bake, sew, draw/paint, write- a creative soul that was also incredibly intelligent- interested in politics and law, she had a Masters in Economics. She had many dreams but always put her family first, her two daughters, her step daughter, her husband, her parents, her siblings, nieces and nephews whom she called her own children... I cried at her memorial as my cousin told a story of how not long ago while their mom was away, she called 3 times a day to make sure they were safe and when they told her she didn't have to- she replied she did because they were like 4 more children to her, so they'd lost not only an aunt but a second mother.

I have so many things I wish I could tell her now, so I'll try not to take life for granted- Mom was the first person I was really close to that I've lost. I've been filled with so many different emotions that I don't really know what to think. One thing that burns clear in my mind though is the words of my Grandfather as we talked at her memorial- "now you'll just have to live a life that she would be proud of." I don't think I could ever do the things my mom did to help others- but I'm going to do my best. And first, for mom, I'm raising money and participating in the Hearth Walk (through American Heart Association) because now I truly understand that sometimes heart disease happens even to those who exercise and eat right and all of that- it can happen to anyone and we have to know the signs, symptoms, treatment and act fast.And now I'm even more determined to do research in hematology, psychiatry and cardiology.

Rest in peace, Momma. I may not have gotten to say it very much recently due to circumstance... but I love you more than words could ever express.

-Elle

A Quick Note

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 19:14:00 +0000

I promise I'll be back soon, whether that's a few days or few weeks. I've missed the site, blogging and all my blogging friends, I was actually working on a post on Saturday when I got the news of my Mom passing away. Age 49, hypertensive heart failure. Some things in this world just never make sense. So right now, I'm working on rebuilding my academics, working so I can pitch in at home, cleaning the house for guests, and dealing with everything that's happened recently on an emotional level.
Hope all is well with you guys.
Love,
Elle

Those Little Memories

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 02:02:00 +0000

Hey everyone! As I type this I am getting accustomed to the board on my NEW LAPTOP. Yes. I caved, and I got a great deal, and this baby comes with a 3 yr warranty including accidental damage so I'm cover. ed no matter what! Awesome. As I mentioned on twitter and in my last post, I'm in the middle of cleaning my family's little apartment and we're redecorating and purging and such- you'd be in shock how much stuff accumulates over the years. But not all of it is junk- some of it are precious memories of the past you didn't even remember holding on to, or had thought was lost forever.

Just for fun today I'll be sharing a few pictures of things I've found, and as promised when this is finally all finished with I'll share parts of the finished project with you. So far, my dad and I built a bed frame, a double desk, a lamp, an office chair... It has not been the easiest task, and I'm still not sure we built the desk correctly but only time can tell right. So for now here are the little things in life I've found (plus a shot of my new laptop!).

A little collage I posterized. Top: A little snow globe a friend gave me years ago for my birthday, it says hold on to your dreams- what a lovely reminder after the weeks I've had. Bottom left: A pin from the Making Strides walk I proudly participated in last fall. Bottom right: A puzzle key set from my childhood! (You have to maneuver it to separate the keys.)

It's been a long time since I purchased an actual cd but a few years ago, my sister got me this one, and I kind of miss cds... Album art was actually quite interesting- my favorite is an artistic photo shoot of Joss Stone for her Introducing Joss Stone album. What's our favorite album art?

My new laptop! It's a Satellite Pro- I cringed at the thought of another Toshiba but it was an offer I couldn't refuse! So here's hoping this one works better than my last, even if the keyboard on this one annoys me (I apologize if there are any glaring typos that make no sense- the cursor seems to move at its own will!). At any rate it's fully covered for the next three years, and I really want it to last. I'll be back soon with an outfit post (wait, what's that?! I haven't done one in so long!) and some DIY posts. Till then...

xoxo,

Elle

p.s. After I took the laptop picture I took off the obnoxious sticker haha.

Life Redirects

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 03:53:00 +0000

I wish I could say I was writing with happy news. But I can say I'm back- Hi guys, I missed you all. How have you all been? - I've been silently lurking in my little spare time. I wish I could say life was going according to plan. In my case it didn't. Things fell apart. But you know what? I won't give up, I'll start from the ground up and rebuild. Instead, I'll do the very best I can to continue chasing my dreams. That said, for reasons I'm leaving out of my blog life, I won't be returning to New England in the fall. Instead I'll be back home with my family. It's not what I had in mind, but I have to face the consequences of life turmoil, and really... being home isn't the worst thing in the world right? (It really isn't).

I have no friends here but I do have an amazing Dad and sister who are always there for me. My latest project is to re-do my sister and I's room- a place where we actually want to be. I bought a bed frame (mine broke and as I was at college it never got replaced) and I'm going to purchase a desk (hopefully a double one to fit both my sister and I!) and I'm taking all the stuff I got to redecorate my dorm and using them to make posters for my house instead- something I've never done before. It will be fantastic, and I'll be sure to share pics with you all! (No before pics though, too messy!). I'm also purging all the junk I no longer need/want (there's a ton!) and trying to make my self more organised. I am so determined to work magic out of this. It's a set back, and I might have to take a semester off because of application complications, but we'll see. I will keep you guys updated as best as possible and I'm going to go back to actually dressing decently, taking photos, and writing posts now that my intensive summer course is OVER.

I hope everyone is having a wonder summer (or winter to my southern atmosphere readers- mainly Australian!). I can't wait to be back to blogging for real, and this whole purge thing feels great- even if it is using up all our garbage bags!

Also now, I'm in a permanently (well for now anyway) long distance relationship, and it sure as heck isn't easy... Any tips? It'd be greatly appreciated because I really want to make this work- this is one very special guy after almost two years together!

xoxo,
Elle

A Day Late

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 01:05:00 +0000

(I really should have moved that paper on the dresser before snapping this shot. UPDATE: *CRINGE* even worse, I JUST noticed the red eye in this photo. I apologize.)

Ok, so I signed up for Miss Vinyl Ahoy aka Suze's Paperdoll Project like 2 weeks ago, convinced I'd definitely have the time for it. I got paired with the lovely Lulu of Miss Lulu Blogs and was super excited to have her style some denim for me, and I styled this super cute black tank for her and we swapped Polyvore boards and everything. The catch? The Paperdoll Project was yesterday. Whoops! I wore my outfit fully intending to take pictures, but got caught up in studying and next thing I knew, instead of my casual but cute summer denim outfit, I had to be in my work uniform of over-sized red polo, a name tag, and black polyester pants. So yea. It happens. So this post is a day late, and instead of the jeans I'd worn, I wore shorts (still denim though, and technically I cut them from old jeans! Sorry Lulu! I loved her styling ideas, and was disappointed I didn't have most of the items- I'm not sure where my white tank went, nor do I have an adorable black vest, or any jewelry at the moment. So I went for layered tanks and a fun headband you may or may not be able to see in the photos I took today. But I totally see the idea she had, and at least I owned the black flats she recommended! Also it was fabulous meeting a sweet blogger I hadn't heard of before! I love when that happens.

I really should incorporate dance, movement and yoga into my poses more often, I've been really bad at posing, but have much to learn from the lovely Anika and Dusk,the best posers in the blog world! Also if this photo looks a bit odd, I used lomography for it, i'm trying to get better at different photo types- I've only mastered sepia and black and white).

-xoxo,

Elle

p.s Have a fabulous weekend, I'll be relaxing tomorrow and tonight, but heading full first into organic chemistry Saturday night and all day Sunday in preparation for my coming exam! Just a week and a half left of classes though!

An Impractically Perfect Choice

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 22:27:00 +0000

Two years ago, I made an impractical decision. I chose an expensive university (in my defense, the cheapest of the out-of-state's I applied to). I was scoffed by some for not choosing in state, and scoffed by others for choosing a non-glamorous state school without the bells and whistles of other schools I was accepted to (a Big Ten public university, a private school with high ranks in a big city, and the oldest school in my profession). I was scared, but ready to leave home.

My story was simple- I moved away from my birth city at the age of 14, halfway through high school while in a special program at a great school, and moved to a city I have yet to come to appreciate much from. I'll owe a ton of money when I get out of school- my argument is that in the health science field- in an in demand profession, I will be able to pay it off- slowly but surely.

It hasn't been easy, and things didn't go according to plan but you know what? Impracticality had it's benefits. If there's any thing these past two years have taught me, it's how to be independent. I had to be an adult- at 1200 plus miles away from my dad and sister who I've relied on since birth- I had to learn how to handle things on my own- and admit when I needed extra help rather than expecting it. I had to learn to budget, and to heighten my alertness. I had to deal with roommate issues and how to have a successful job interview, how to not freak out, and so many other things that are simply a part of growing up. At eighteen years of age, it was just about time. A little over a month shy till my nineteenth birthday, I couldn't be more proud of how far I've come. I have much self improvement to deal with, and many more lessons to learn - but you know what? We don't have to learn everything all at once, now do we need to have all the answers.

The future is uncertain, but we should embrace it- and today, while appreciating, NOT harking, on the past. I'm a happier person than I was two years ago, and the change of environment had a lot to do with that. In the past two years I've learned to be more open, I've gained confidence, leadership skills I didn't know I would ever have, more drive, more research ideas, and the added bonus of the best boyfriend a girl could ever ask for. It wasn't practical, and when people ask me where I go to school and I answer, I'm usually met with surprise, or comments of "why so far?" but I have no doubt, crazy or not, it was the best decision I've ever made, and it wouldn't have been possible without the things that have happened in the last few years- the bad included (my mom going crazy being the first to come to mind). Live life without regret, always. You never know what you might learn in the process.

What impractical ideas have you had? What was the result? Are you happier because of your decisions?

xoxo,

Elle

p.s. Part of my lack of posting is due to things not quite going as planned- focusing on my summer class, I'll be back in a few short weeks!

Full Time Beachy: An FTF Blog Event!

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 11:00:00 +0000

It's no secret that I love the Full Time Fabulous virtual events, and I was really excited by this month's theme for it! I'm a city girl/beach bum hybrid so I was psyched to see the theme BEACH! in my e-mail inbox. It's the most perfect theme for me- I first went to the beach at just 2 months old! And I live in Florida, so I instantly knew exactly what I wanted to do. These photos were actually taken on one of the busiest beach days of the year- July 4th! So let me share my little piece of paradise .

The bridge opened up to let a sail boat through and I just had to snap some pictures. And to the right of the photo you see a pink castle... We passed it close up and I thought I'd share the photo below...

This is the Don Cesar. It's an old and glamorous hotel resort.

Strange knowing I could see a thunderstorm a few miles away and see the distant lightning, but be perfectly safe in the water... Oh Florida, you're a puzzle!

White sand glistened, children played, it was a glorious day outside.

People tanned, and people drank, and I snapped away...

Boats pulled into the gulf shore, ready and waiting for the fireworks to come.

The sun set low over the ocean and everyone watched and many raised their cameras, hoping for the perfect shot as it quickly dipped beyond the horizon. I loved the water, clear, warm and clam, though more populated that I'd like. The ocean is like a second home to me, near and dear to my heart, and has been for years. I love it. So much. I grew up on the shore in Jamaica, I was a water baby, even if I'm a bad swimmer yet...
What's your favorite part of the beach?!
xoxo,
Elle

Tea Time

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 01:37:00 +0000

It's Friday, I just had a super busy week, and I'm trying to follow a schedule. This post wasn't pre-written like the others this week. However, I've been wanting to do this nutrition post for awhile now. It's in the heat of summer where I am, accompanied by summer thunderstorms and scorching humidity with temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 Celsius for my international readers!). And yet one of my favorite drinks (and what I drink most, besides water) is hot peppermint tea. Yes, even in this heat, I'll be sipping on peppermint tea (unsweetened, I've learned to take my tea without sugar (years ago) and without honey (except green tea with lemon and honey when sick!)) . I steep it for up to ten minutes (or just leave the bag in!) as I like it strong.

But what I like best is knowing all the benefits that come with my favorite cup of tea. Said to be even more soothing than chamomile, peppermint tea is said to relief stress, and is good for right before bed (my favorite time to drink this herbal tea!). It helps with all sorts of stomach ailments and helps promote better stomach digestion. It's purported to have many healing benefits as it contains many vitamins, antioxidants and menthol. It does help soothe many of the symptoms of the common cold- sore throats, runny noses, and the like (and I can personally testify to its aptness at this!).

It's said to have more of the benefits when in it's loose form (I typically opt for the bagged version and really should buy loose tea with a little strainer). The tea is just as good (and even more refreshing) in it's iced form, and has a light refreshing taste. It also fights the causes of bad breathe, freshening it naturally! It's a natural appetite suppressor, and it said to have many other great benefits. Unlike black, green, and white teas, peppermint tea (and other herbal teas from tisanes) are naturally caffeine free.

With that, I'm off to enjoy a cup myself (and I buy only the best peppermint teas, right now I have Twinings in my cupboard, bringing me back to tea time with my Grandma as a little kid).

What's your favorite kind of tea? Do you enjoy mint teas like I do (I also drink spearmint varieties often!)?

-Elle

p.s. HAH I stuck to my schedule this week!! YES.

p.p.s Enjoy your holiday weekend if you're in the U.S or Canada, and enjoy your weekend if you're anywhere else!

The Name of the Game

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 04:01:00 +0000

He said, she said, they said, you said. "Omg did you hear? So and so totally ___!!!!" We've all heard sentences much like that one. It's name is gossip, it's aim is destruction. Sometimes it seems innocent enough, but one little tidbit leads to more and more and with each word we are more likely to toss in an insult or a demeaning remark, or something that might have been revealed in good trust. It's by far not something I am proud of but I have gossiped more than once in the past, and I've also been beat down by the aftermath of it too. Gossip might hold some truth but often times it is mere hear say, and likely isn't true.

Have you ever picked up a tabloid and wondered why they sell? Wondered how these maliciously false stories are kick started? I've done it before. And today I think what if they were fueled by human beings just like you and me. We talk without thinking and slip one little lie and next thing we know it balloons. Drama ensues, and we can be on the receiving end or on the giving end. I know I'm guilty of gossip. I have said unkind words, I've told a story that wasn't mine to tell... And yet I know how much it hurts to know of betrayed trust, or lies spoken against you, and I hate the way it makes me feel. I am a hypocrite. But this past weekend as I sat in church listening to a powerful sermon that mentioned the ill deeds of gossip, I began to realize... I don't have to be a hypocrite. It might be difficult but it isn't impossible to live a life free of telling gossip.

This post is dated June 29, 20ll. For the next year I will strive to be gossip free. I'm really bad at keeping goals but I realize now many of my goals were trivial (no coffee, no gum) and this one is one I should actually be happy to work on, because it is something that will make me a better person, someone I am happier to be. And that to me is worth the trouble, because frankly gossip isn't all it's cracked up to be. If I want to do my best to not hurt others, this is a major step, when people knew of the gossip or not- can you imagine how we would make others feel if everyone know everything that others had said about them? I can only imagine the needlessly mean things that would be heard. So today I put my own reputation on the line by placing a goal I don't know if I can achieve- but it's be a shame if I didn't bother trying. So from now on my words will ere on the side of caution.

Would you ever try to eliminate gossip from your life? My goal is not only to top myself but to encourage others to let go of whatever hate, jealousy, or other traits that are causing them to gossip. It's one thing to tell someone's inspirational story, or to make an announcement on the behalf of someone, but to say something you know you wouldn't want them to say if you were in their shoes? Now that is where gossip begins.
-Elle

Weather on Your Side

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 04:01:00 +0000

The weather this Saturday was not my friend. Rather than go grey in agreement I dressed in the perfect summer outfit and for a while the sun came out to play. Sadly, it didn't last and when I dressed in my swim suit and hit the pool,thunder began to roar and my dad ushered me back inside. That said, this is typical of Florida, ten minute thunderstorms that roll in an out.

This midi-length skirt was actually one of favorite dresses until the top was destroyed when my sister accidentally stuck it in the dryer. So today I tried tucking it under and belting it, and while I constantly had to readjust the piece I turned under, it was comfortable, easy, and a great summer look to beat the dreary weather! I also got my sister to take my photos so no oddly off balance self shots! I know the midi length isn't technically the most flattering on someone as short as I am, and probably makes me look shorter. Frankly, I don't care if it does, because there's just something about that length that I have always loved and own at least 4 skirts in that length or close to, and love them all. I don't care if people know I'm not tall- I am barely 5'4" and am okay with that.

The print on the bottom of the dress. The dress was a gift from a family friend while we visited the Bahamas a few years back and the store had the most beautiful effortless cotton sundresses- the purple one I wear frequently seen here was actually purchased there as well.

My first pair of sunglasses, unless you count the kiddie ones made from very cheap plastic with no UV protection that I used to wear when I was little. I have prescription glasses with transitions and so when it's extra bright out I wear those but I really dislike my glasses and when I saw these, I just had to get them (my vision isn't bad, I see well enough without my glasses unless it involves projector screens!). These are a bit reflective though and you can see my photographer! Oy HD camera shots show no mercy...

Hope everyone is having a wonderful Tuesday. Now I want to know: what is your go-to outfit in the summer?

xoxo,

Elle

On Track

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 13:00:00 +0000

A year and some days later my blog has grown slowly but surely and I'm starting to really love the focus (as highlighted in my header). At the same time I feel I lack vision with this blog and I am attempting to organize aspects of my life and I'm beginning to realize that for me to continue the blog as I'd so love to do - this too needs organization.

I have extra facets to my life starting Monday- summer school, my part time job (as little hours as I get, it does keep me on my feet, & in red and black polyester hahaha), as well as my boyfriend (albeit long distance), my friends (also long distance), and my family, and of course - my blog. I spend at least 5 hours a week reading blogs, writing, taking/editing photos, communicating, and on site design. I don't know exactly how many hours it consumes because when I have fun with something, I let time slip away from me. I need something to reign me in and keep me organized. So I'm setting up a blogging schedule in terms of posting days and such. I still have plenty of fashion and editorial posts planned, I'll just be better at scheduling them for certain days. That said, I'm giving you guys my schedule.

The blog will be updated on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Tuesdays will be a fashion related post, whether it's a look at my closet, a sketch (I'm working on some sketches I have to finish and if they come out any good, I'd love to share my passion with you guys, but it's been over a year since I picked a pencil up to draw so my recent sketches are raw and need editing and redrawing), an outfit post (I shot one on Saturday, that will go up on Tuesday!) or a wardrobe needs or wants post. I'm so excited to be able to focus and expand my blog at the same time- I love fashion, but that isn't all I love, and right now I have few clothes that are wearable as much of my stuff has worn to where they have to be retired to "house wear." And to me it'd get boring fast to show the same pieces over particularly when I lack inspiration that applies to things I own. I used to buy pieces not that went with what I already owned but rather things I just loved. That has to change especially if I need to build a professional wardrobe, and update my casual wear. I digress. (I have so many thoughts pop into my head when I begin to write a blog post and end up rambling).

Wednesdays will be a lifestyle, body image or life organization post, and I can't wait to share these with you guys after the reception for my last two! Fridays will be either an FBFF post, or a health/nutrition post- I loved that aspect I started writing about a few months ago and definitely need to incorporate more- I have a few things to write about already for this! And lastly I'm going to have an optional post on the weekends, because I suck at sticking to strict schedules and because I don't want to niche the blog to the point where it begins to feel like a job. I want to continue to have fun with this even if it will be organized chaos instead of just chaos. The weekend post will focus on opinion pieces that ask for your discussion of various topics but can vary. I'm excited to attempt the schedule for the following week and see how it turns out! Wish me luck, and you'll get to see my fun weekend look on Tuesday!

-Elle

(Back to) Music

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 03:32:00 +0000

Oh hey. I've been kind of serious in many of my recent posts and today I figured I'd lighten things up a little. It's been many months since I did a music post for you guys but no worries - my love for music is still strong and kicking, and I still listen obsessively. As my previous music posts have shown I'm a huge fan of lesser known artists and sharing the love to indie artists.

This artist in particular, I've listened to since back when she was just another Youtube singer out there, and now she's grown leaps and bonds and people have taken notice- her music is beautiful and February 23, 2010 she released her full length CD which I snapped up on Amazon in digital form for a mere $5 a few weeks ago.

The artist in question is the lovely Kina Grannis and the CD is called Stairwells. My favorite song is called Message from your Heart, which you can listen to here. Kina rose to fame when she won the Doritos Crash the Superbowl contest winning her a well deserved record deal. I actually found her through a link while the competition was still on going. Her songs have also been featured on shows like General Hospital and Pretty Little Liars.

Her video for the song Valentine is one of the best independently directly videos I've ever seen. Not only that but Kina also seems to have a big heart, often advocating for various charitable efforts including one near and dear to my heart- Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society. Her music is a folk pop softer style that I absolutely adore, and she has an amazing voice. So if music's your kind of thing, go ahead and check her out!
What music have you been hooked on lately? I'm always looking for new artists to listen to.

xoxo,
Elle
P.S I'm getting the hang of my new job so I will be back to regularly scheduled programming soon! I'm considering setting a blog schedule so that I will post on certain days of the week. We'll see how that plan goes!

The Great Disconnect: Mind vs. Mirror

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:39:00 +0000

Hey everyone- things have been hectic this last week- as you might have seen on Twitter- I got a job this week. It took a lot of patience for me to find one but it was something I needed so while I miss my free time (and am starting a summer course in a week!), it's a great opportunity. The store's been short staffed with lots of people out so I've had to teach things to myself or bug busy assistant managers which I feel terribly about (today one of them was getting annoyed, and I could tell. But it was because I needed an override- which is not something I'm allowed to do so she calmed down).

Photo taken from How Stuff Works, all credits go to them, and no copy right infringement was meant by the use of this photo.

So today I'm continuing my body image series from last week, and talking about a serious issue women (and men) face today. It's actually a self image issue that is health damaging and is detrimental and a real disorder that is not something simply invented as just another thing people can obsess over- it's real and it hurts (emotionally)- and that's body dysmorphia or body dysmorphic disorder.

What happens with body dysmorphia is a disconnect between what's actually in the mirror (or on the scale!) and what the mind perceives what it sees as. A tiny pimple may look like a giant wart, or a good sized leg might be construed as a mountain. The disconnect leads to severe self hate and can have varying degrees. Body dysmorphia can take away from the joys of everyday life and is a serious disorder treated by therapy and drugs.

When self loathe becomes more than just a temporary frame of mind and evolves into a state of being- that's when body dysmorphia develops- it can be triggered by any number of things, and it's not something to be laughed at or said to be petty. It can be linked to other image disorders (anorexia, bulimia and the like).
The other day, in my last post I mentioned that sometimes I wonder why people don't see the beauty in themselves that many other people do. The truth is body dysmorphia is said to affect at least 1% of the total world population (and approximately 4% in the US), and is also severely under-diagnosed.

So while I love telling people they're beautiful and hate to see people not realize it, I'm starting to realize maybe they're not just being stubborn or stupid- they might actually have a serious issue and shouldn't be condescended for their self image. Rather we should strive to do all in our power to help others see what we see in them for themselves. I'm tired of judging others, without realizing that there might be more to the story than we will ever know. So today, this post is more for awareness than anything else. That body dysmorphia is real, serious and not an easy thing to deal with.

Do you know someone with body dysmorphia? Have you heard the term before? Have you met someone who overcame such a disorder?
Let me know in the comments.
xoxo,
Elle

Body Envy

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 03:36:00 +0000

Today is the first in a mini series I'll be doing posts periodically about in the next few weeks. My focus is body image and my initiative is to get some discussion on these topics. I want to know what other people think. I'm in no way trying to offend others, or anything like that- I simply will state my thoughts and ask for yours. It's great to differ in opinion and I'd love to know yours. That said let's get to the heart of my first post.

I love watching the show What Not to Wear. I know it's not every person's favorite style show and while I disagree with some of what they do (I feel they are too harsh in the beginning and I don't agree that every woman should dress to look like an hour glass- I love uniquely shaped clothing as long as they fit!) I love that they do a great job building people's confidence with who they are. A thing I've noticed both on the show and with people I've met is that there's a lot of competition when it comes to women's style.

I've heard so many women (and men too) talk about how X person is so much more stylish, or more beautiful or more skinny/ better proportioned. I've been guilty of it too. The truth? Everyone has things about their body they don't like -and we should accept who we are. This is not to say we can't work on self improvement- if you have a health need to address, or an injury, or a bad habit -it's totally fine to work on it. What I'm talking about is self negativity of features of yours that other people might look at and say "Oh you don't like that? I'd kill to have a __ like that." People have little things about themselves that they don't like and honestly - we're our own worst critics.

My best friend is one of the prettiest people I know. She isn't happy with her weight. Fine, yes I'll give her that- she is technically overweight for her age/height and for health reasons, she is trying to lose weight. I think however the biggest problem is her self image. She thinks she's bigger than she really is, and ugly when she actually has really pretty features- the only thing I've gotten her to say she likes is her hair. However when I look at her I see this adorable girl with the cutest face and a sparkle to her that just screams AWESOME person. Today I showed her a picture of someone of similar size who looked drop dead gorgeous- her response was "she's really pretty... but she's smaller than me. I happened to know that they wear the same size- and thus it was mainly her own self image and envy of a body that she herself owns.

I think it's time to get to the heart of this... Why do people envy others? If we all looked the same (even if it was like a movie star) life would be terribly dull. So I say let's start a revolution- to embrace us- as we are and accept the things in life that we under most circumstances shouldn't feel we have to change- things like eye color, body shape (not body size), nose, ears, things like that.

I myself have said things about my own body that I admit are self deprecating. Today I'm stripping all of that away- no more of the I have weirdly shaped wide feet, or the I have a big nose (actually I should love my nose- it's the one unifying factor in my mixed race family- me, my sister, and 3 of our 4 cousins from that side of the family all have our Grandfather's nose, and that's something we should be proud of), or the I hate my stomach pooch (I don't have a flat stomach but so few people do, why should I feel self conscious about mine? - I'm not fat or anywhere near it and I know this- 107-110 lbs is perfectly okay for a curvy 5'4" almost 19 year old woman). So there we go. Completely exposed on many of my insecurities when it comes to the way I look. There. All gone. Now who's going to join me? It's time to stop saying "I wish I looked like that" and say I like the way I look and I'm going to make the best of what I have and embrace it.

Me embracing my "large" nose and curly hair.

What's your opinion on how we perceive our own bodies and those of the people around us? Are you done with the negativity and the body envy? Or do you think it garners positive ambition?

Let me know in the comments.

xoxo,
Elle

My Sulfate Free Journey

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 21:04:00 +0000

My video upload finally worked! A few things- 1. I like to talk with my hands. I know it's annoying to some people, I got it from my dad- we're very animated people. 2. The lighting is bad, & I talk really fast (my tribute to being a New Yorker). 3. Ignore my awkward ending, I couldn't find the end video button with my finger fast enough.

I've been wanting to share my new hair care routine and find out what you guys do- I know I can't be the only one with difficult hair- we can't all be like my best friend who has magical soft hair that can handle being dyed every two weeks and still be damage free! Maybe next time I do a video (would you guys like me to do more?) I'll try editing it- this video is completely raw so that's me in all my glory. If you want more information on condition washing or sulfates let me know- I read many articles and long hair/mixed race/curly hair community boards before deciding to give it a shot. While my hair is far from perfect- I think this definitely helped my hair recover from a strong shampoo I had to use for a lice treatment as a kid. I love the products I mentioned in the video, and am in no way sponsored by any of the companies. That said, as you heard- not all sulfate free products will work for everyone, we all have different hair types, and different experiences- others gave Renpure Organics great reviews, yet it made my scalp irritated (to soothe it I used oat milk). The products mentioned in the video are: Burt's Bees Grapefruit and Sugarbeet Shampoo with soy protein, Neutrogena Clean Replenishing Moisturizing Shampoo, and Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask. The other products I use on my hair are a shine serum by Beyond the Zone (not in the summer though), heat protectant (currently CHI's 44 Iron Guard), and argan oil (I use One n' Only but any would work!). Alright, I'm done. Have a fabulous weekend.

xoxo, Elle

p.s. What's your opinion on vlogs? Do you like hearing a blogger's voice or do you skip over them?
p.p.s This is not how I sound like in real life most of the time, at least not to me, I'm confused haha. But that's pretty much me. :)

It's a Bloggiversary! (The 1st!)

noreply@blogger.com (Elle Enchanted) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 04:01:00 +0000

AHHHH! IT'S HERE! On June 8th, 2010 a shy college girl was bored and needed something to focus on. She started a blog as a silly summer project and today a year later, she's still here, and could not have done it without you guys. My readers- the lurkers, the commenters, the avid supporters. Each and every one of you. Today, will not be about me. Rather today will be about you. I have many people to thank (and this may or may not sound like an actor/actress accepting an Oscar and I apologize but I really do owe it to all of you!). So here today, on my one year bloggiversary, I give to you an ode.

An ode to Leia, my very first engaged reader and my first GFC follower, who put up with many weak posts and cheered me along the way and has been there time and time again. She's been an inspiration, a fabulous blogger, and best of all- a friend. If you don't know her blog, click on over, I know you'll love it.

To Sarah, the very first blogger I met in real life (and to date the only one, though that will change in the coming months). She's totally sweet, and was okay with wandering the streets of NYC with me searching for something to do. We did what any fashion blogger would- SHOP!

To Abby, who's been there almost as long as Leia. The non-fashion blogger who reads my blog anyway. She's sweet, and through Twitter conversations we discovered we go to school very close to each other, and I can't wait to meet her this fall- she even knows people I do- it's a small world! She is also one of the most eloquent writers I've ever met- her words are beautiful.

To Vahni and B for their unwavering support, and vast knowledge of all things blogging.To Sophie for leaving the sweetest comments and a few blogger awards and just all around being a sweetheart. To Dusk for being completely honest always, and being fabulous inspiration.To Katy, IFB, the Bon Bon Rose Girls, and Kristy for inviting me into their awesome blogging communities. To the ever beautiful Michelle for being my e-mail buddy, and first guest poster! To Faye and Ashe for their feedback on layouts, and help with blog design! To Harriet, for her Eight Steps to a Better Blogger Blog post that totally saved my butt with this redesign! To Tanvi, and Suze for color inspiration and support. To Bella for being the loving, sweet and fabulous person she is, and for sharing my posts and spreading the love on Twitter! To every person who's left a comment or even just read a post! To my twitter pals for keeping me well entertained. To readers like Amber and Steph who are just total sweethearts. To Sherin for being encouraging, sweet, and even linking to me! To Kendi for the 30*30 challenge, even if I dropped out after 24 outfits- for teaching me to challenge my boundaries and create new looks from old clothes. To Anika, the self love activist who's taught me so much in such a short time of finding her blog. (And has become an awesome supporter too).

Thank you everyone. I know it sounds silly, but blogging really has made life better for me and introduced me to so many wonderful people who I wouldn't have met other wise. This goes for everyone on my Link Love page, and the blogs I visit on occasion, and those on my google reader and my bloglovin'! So today is all about you guys.

xoxo,

Elle