advice – Peculiar Porter

6 Tricks to Staying Positive During the Winter

Published on February 1, 2018February 13, 2018 by PeculiarPorter11 Comments

This past weekend it was in the mid 50’s and I had to celebrate by wearing a light jacket (and even taking it off to take pictures of my awesome shirt). To some of you that live in warmer climates that might seem crazy, but this girl has been in negative degree weather for the past month so the 50’s felt like a serious heatwave. Too bad its back to the low 20’s now. A girl can only hope for an early spring…

Winter is one of the times of the year where everyone is sick, cold, and miserable (the trifecta of serious misery). For those who know me, I’m pretty obnoxiously positive. Literally, I think sometimes I’m too positive. But that hasn’t always been the case. In high school, there were a lot of things that I thought negatively about. Whether it was mental, physical, or emotional I was pretty negative back then. Eventually, I started to rethink what type of energy I was putting out into the world and tried to fix it. Here are some of the things I tried along the way.

Shirt (DIY) | Pants (Romeo and Juliett from Marshalls Very Similar)

Shoes (Sold Out) |Bag (Similar)

Write down 3+ things you’re thankful for in the morning and night.

This is by far my favorite tip because this is what helps me remain so positive each day. It’s very easy to just come up with three things in your head that you’re positive about but it’s another thing to actually write down said things. By writing down these positive feelings, moods, or moments you’re creating a pattern that will help you remember these positive things in the long run. You can write them down on a small notepad and keep it in your purse or even a note section on your phone. Plus, you’ll have so much fun looking back on past entries on what made you happy. For example, I still have quotes from my freshman year of college from friends.

If you’re upset, mad, sad, or any other negative emotion write down how you feel, rip it up, and throw it away.

The fact that I have a blog that you’re actually reading is pretty telling that I love to write. Now, sometimes it may not make sense, I may spell something wrong, and the grammar may be all over the place. That is totally fine. When I’m frustrated with something, I write it down. If it’s really stressing me out I throw it away or cross out things, but most of the time I just leave it in my journal. I like doing this because it helps me really think about why I’m upset and then most of the times I can just leave that negativity on that page.

Smile: Fake it until you make it.

There is some truth to the idea that you can fake it until you make it. There have been many studies that show a correlation between smiling and being happy. The idea is that if you smile each day you can actually trick your brain into believing you’re happy. If that isn’t a reason to smile I don’t know what is.

Workout.

This one is a big one for me. Whenever I’m cranky or stressed out it’s probably because I haven’t been to the gym in a while. There is something about releasing a ton of sweat and breathing out my frustrations that calms me down. For some, high-intensity workouts like Tabata, Kick-Boxing, or Sprinting might help remove negativity while others might do better at mentally focused workouts like pilates or yoga. Personally, I like a mix of both. The work out will help you get your stress out while feeling better about yourself in general.

Surround yourself with positive people.

Surrounding myself with positive influences wasn’t something I really thought about until recently and boy, did it make a difference. Removing yourself from a situation where someone is rude or sarcastic to you allows you to not directly place that negative energy into your life. This is definitely the hardest tip because you want to give everyone the benefit of doubt. The sad reality is sometimes you need to cut the cord when you’re in a toxic environment. I talk more about this here.

Lastly, remember that you’re living the beautiful life.

If you speak Italian, you probably saw that coming. The shirt I made last week reads “The Beautiful Life” in Italian. This positive saying is a great reminder that you’re living an incredible life no matter what you’re going through. You can find happiness and positivity in the darkest times if you just turn on the light. By remembering that you’re truly fortunate really helps you put into perspective on what you should be positive about.

Don’t forget to check out how you can make this shirt here.

How do you remain positive in your day to day life? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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How to Wear a Fuzzy Vest Like a Boss

Published on February 14, 2017 by PeculiarPorter25 Comments

Hello darlings! I’m not sure about you, but I’ve been lost in the sea of pink this past couple of weeks. My instagram feed is drowning in pinks and reds. I tried my best to spice it up by throwing a plum color into the mix. Okay, so I know it’s still in the same color family but, hey, it is Valentine’s day after all.

I’m a huge fan on vests lately. I think they’re the perfect addition to any outfit because of the add a new kind of detention to the outfit. Also, it feels like you’re being bear hugged all day and who doesn’t love that? This fluffy vest is from Marshall’s- the store that literally knows how to bubble happiness. I particularly like how this one flaps open to show the contrast of suede and fur. You could easily put this vest over a tight dress, but I love it paired with an equally relaxed dress. This plum color dress really makes the cream color pop. This vest would also look great with any color especially army green… maybe even an all white outfit!

As for jewelry I opted for my favorite ring from Bluebird, a small store located in Troy, New York. I literally wear this ring every day… I wish it came in silver because I would be all over that.

I’ve been obsessed with wearing this necklace from The Giving Key. This necklace comes in three different versions that say Dream, Love, and Hope. I wasn’t sure if I should get dream or love. I ended up picking dream but because, as a senior in college, it is very easy to get nervous about the future. I wanted to keep a reminder close to remember that I need to dream about endless opportunities. It is easy to get discouraged, but this necklace is just a little reminder to keep my head up high and dream big. This particular brand is incredibly because not only does it help motivate me but it helps the homeless. The Giving Key purposely hires homeless people in California so that they an help improve their lives. You can check out their mission more here.

Lastly, I decided on incorporating more texture in this outfit. You probably know by now, I adore adding more elements to every outfit. These quirky tights are perfect when paired with over the knee boots. Lace tights are one of my favorite items to add in an outfit because it instantly makes the look so much more flirty and feminine. The tights are very innocent where as the boots are very edgy so it is creates this interesting contrast in any outfit.

What are you rocking for Valentine’s day? Are you mourning the day by wearing black or are you rocking pink? Let me know in the comments down below about your outfit and/or plans for today!

As always,

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The Ultimate Styling Trick to Stay Warm

Published on February 7, 2017February 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter43 Comments

Hello darling! This past weekend, I went to Chowderfest in Saratoga. It is the magical day where multiple restaurants (85 to be exact) all make chowder. The chowder is $1 for a cup and you feel like you’re melting into a puddle of happiness when you eat it. I ended up getting 8 different chowders. I was so full that I felt as if my friends needed to roll me to the car. Obviously, it was a magical experience.

The day of Chowderfest was pretty cold out and you usually stand outside in the cold waiting for the chowder. So, that got me thinking. How do you stay warm when you’re trying to stay outside in 20° weather? Layer, layer, layer. In this outfit, I have a tank top on, a button down, my sweater, and my jacket. Boy, was I ready to endure the cold. The key to making sure that you don’t look super bulky with this many layers is to make sure they’re different sizes. The tank top that you cannot see is super form fitting so it won’t add that much bulk to this outfit. My striped button down hits just below the sweater making the eye drawn to the little to the extra fabric. Also, it helps when you cuff the sleeves and make sure the collar stands out over the sweater.

When you’re dressing for warm weather, make sure you wear a wool sweater. This sweater will ensure that you stay super toasty. Plus, I love this beading on this J.Crew sweater because makes the look that much more playful.

As for shoes and pants, I wore different ones for Chowederfest. I actually wore these jeans on top of a pair of thick leggings. I then threw on my over the knee boots from this post and was incredibly warm. The extra shoe material on my legs really helped me stay warm.

For gloves, I really love these black leather ones because they are lined with fleece. You can get very similar ones at Marshall’s or T.J.Maxx.

Here are pictures of my favorite chowders from 7 Horse, Sweet Mimi’s, and Graffney’s. Boy, were they delicious!

What are your tricks for staying warm for winter? Do you hide hand warmers in your shoes and gloves? Do you double up on hats or scarves? Let me know in the comments down below. Also, if you have any fun food events that you stay outside for like Chowderfest let me know… I would definitely put that on my list of places to go.

As always,

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P.S. What do you think about Christmas decorations that are still up? These photos were taken two weeks ago and Christmas stuff is still up! Personally, I love it.

How to Style a Mock Turtle Neck Shirt

Published on January 31, 2017February 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter13 Comments

Hello darling! I’m going to let you in a little secret… when I was really little, I told my mother I would never wear a turtle neck. Hi, Mom! Don’t worry, back then I thought lime green look oh-so-fabulous with metallic gold. So yes, today I break a few rules and hopefully never revert to my old ways. And trust me, I can hear my mother’s voice in my ears bragging, “I told you so.”

This incredibly brilliant mock turtleneck is from the wonderful American Eagle… come to think of it so is my cardigan and jeans. Yes, it is no secret that American Eagle gives me life. You could easily pair this shirt by itself because of it’s rich detailing. However, I wanted to add a little bit more attention to this outfit and throw on a big statement necklace and a speckled cardigan. Bam!

Fun fact: the Porter family used to own two turtles at one point (I’m thinking about this because of the turtleneck sweater). We actually had a few animals growing up now that I think about it… 5 guinea pigs (I had two and then my older brother got jealous so he had to get two. Mine were incredibly fat… think butternut squash and Andrew’s were incredibly small… think small baked potato), 4 dogs, one common goldfish (I won it at a fair and it lived for 7 years), two turtles, one gecko, 2 hamsters, and many koi fish. The animals were spaced out over time but still, that is a significant amount of animals. Do you think that is a lot?

If I wanted to wear this mock turtle neck for Valentine’s day, I would definitely pair it with more daintier jewelry and a maroon/soft pink cardigan. The reason I picked this more in-your-face necklace is because it paired so nicely with the speckled cardigan and black knee high boots. Plus, it really is an interesting combination when the edgy necklace is paired with dainty lace.

Have you ever told your mom you’re never going to wear something when you were little? Who was right? Would you wear a mock turtle neck? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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P.S. If you ever come to Troy, New York you’ll have to visit the Louis Rubin Memorial Approach. It’s located right next to RPI and you get this amazing view.

5 Questions You Should Ask While Shopping

Published on January 12, 2017January 12, 2017 by PeculiarPorter3 Comments

Hello darlings! I hope you’re having a wonderful day! I wanted to make this post before we entered a new season. This past break I cleaned out my closet at home and went through items that I thought I was crazy for buying. Going through my closet made me realize something, I need to ponder more before I pull out my wallet. I’ve come up with a few questions that I’ll be starting to ask myself more and hopefully give you guys some advice before pulling out your wallet.

Would you buy that item full price?

I love outlet shopping because of the great deals. However, I often have to stop and ask myself if I would still buy the item if it was full price. Would I shell out on this $40 graphic tee or am I only buying it because it is $10. I think we all love a good bargain but we should stop and ask ourselves if we really need an item.

Processed with VSCO with g3 preset

What three outfits can you wear this with? Example: Suede Jacket

After you’re done with trying to figure out if you’d buy that coat for the full price, ask yourself if you can picture yourself actually wearing it. I’m guilty of buying items that I know will be great additions to trends and blog posts. However, in this upcoming year I’m trying to think of more ways I can wear items before I buy them. What color and style pants does this top go with? Do I own those pants? Do I really need another pair of black jeans?

What is it made of? Will it last?

Did I pay a pretty penny for this jacket? Absolutely. But it has lasted me all throughout Italy, last winter, and this winter. Since it it made with great stitching and material, it was definitely worth the pretty penny. I will pay a pretty penny on American Eagle jeans because I know they’ll last forever. I’ve had a pair of Lululemon leggings from senior year of high school and they look brand new as I wear them my senior year of college. Although you’re spending a ton of money on a product you know that it will last forever. One pair of nice leggings is worth way more than 15 see through leggings. Same goes for jeans, shirts, and basic tees. Things you should splurge on for quality are things that you know that you’ll be wearing for a long time. Solid shirts, jeans, boots, and jackets. All are necessities that will be best if you pay a little bit more in order for them to last longer.

Where is it made? Do you feel like you’re making a good global decision?

I recently shopped at Tarte because I was looking for a new concealer. I was a little reluctant to buy the product but I quickly changed my mind when I heard the company was cruelty free. There have been many scandals about how clothes are made and that may or may not make you feel better. If you want to look more into good global decision companies check out this post.

Am I only buying it because it looks good on the model? Will it actually look good on me?

Whenever I online shop I usually end up with a billion items I don’t need in the shopping card. I swear it always looks like this:

I think it is totally okay to carry on this unhealthy obsession of adding things to your shopping bag. However, before you click the wonderful “Check Out Now” button ask yourself if you’re only buying it because it looks good on the model. I think it is something we’re all guilty of. I mean it’s great advertising and the models do get paid to make sure that we want the item. I tend neck lines and shirt sleeves before I buy things. I know that I don’t look good in thick straps but look good in thin strap tops. So although it may look phenomenal on the model, I try to stay away from that. If you don’t know what you look good in and don’t look good in off the top of your head, look at your closet now. Do you have more of one style rather than another? It’s probably because you’re either drawn to that style of you look best in it.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions we should asks ourselves before we pull out our wallets. Do you already ask some of these questions before you buy something?

As always,

35 Funky Ideas for Your New Year’s Resolution

Published on January 4, 2017January 4, 2017 by PeculiarPorter4 Comments

Hello darlings! What is your opinion on New Year’s resolutions? Do you think its a great opportunity or a bunch of lies? Now this post might be a little late but you can always start a new beginning. To me it seems like people are either pessimistic or optimistic about New Year’s resolutions. You’re either the positive, “I’m going to improve my life drastically” or pessimistic saying “I can change anytime I want.” I’m in-between both of these ideas because I like the idea of setting a goal. Yes, I realize you can do that anytime and be successful. I’m not doubting that. However, what I am saying is that the new year is a great opportunity to make a few changes in your life. Nothing drastically, but little things that you can improve on day by day. For example, every year I tell myself “drink more water.” Some days I forget… hey, I am human after all. But most days I remember. Making the New Year’s resolution in the beginning of January helps me refocus my goals and try to make the best out of everything.

There is always room for self improvement no matter who you are. New Year’s resolutions gives you the opportunity to reflect and possibly even make yourself the best you can possibly be. I know that is cheesy and what not, but I think that is why people are so drawn to creating a New Year’s resolution.

Here are 35 funky ideas for your New Year’s Resolutions:

Drink more water.
Eat more vegetables.
Come up with something creative to cook once a week/or month.
Go somewhere new once a week/month.
Go a different way to work/school once a week/month so you can look at things differently.
Try a new hobby once a month.
Read a book once a month.
Read 3+ scholarly articles once a week.
Learn a new word every day.
Try new workout classes/routine once a week/month.
Try saying “yes” more than “no”
Try a different culture’s food once a week/month.
Listen to yourself more.
Leave the house every day.
Sleep 8 hours every day.
Dress up more.
Compliment at least one person a day.
Work on forgiveness.
Comment on someone’s blog post once a day.
Volunteer more.
Plan your outfits the day before.
Change your bed sheets more
Do 30 squats or 15 push ups every day.
Give yourself at least 30 minutes every day to relax.
Develop a better Spotify playlist.
Write down one thing that made you happy every day.
Write down one thing that made you grateful every day.
Wear less/more make up (which ever you prefer).
Say “I love you,” “thank you,” and “please” more.
Learn an interesting fact once a day.
Think more about what you’re putting into your body.
Think more about where your clothes are coming from.
Reflect more on your decisions.
Do something you wouldn’t normally do once a day.
Tip more.

Maybe pick one or two from this epic list or even come up with your own. As for me, I plan improving myself to my best of ability by working on a few of the ideas listed above. I knew its cliche, but sometimes you need a little push to improve yourself. After all, I’m graduating this spring and will soon have to figure out where my life is headed. When you’re coming up with your New Year’s resolution or even just an idea of how to improve yourself, think of not only how you want others to see you but how you want to see yourself. Do you want to see yourself as a positive, helpful person or do you want people to see you as a funny, charismatic person? Your New Year’s resolution can help you reach that type of goal.

Some things I’m beyond happy to enter the new year with includes this wonderful wall calendar. I love this wall calendar because each month has different illustrations based on the weather change. You bet this baby is going to be hanging in my room at school as soon as I get back.

If you haven’t shopped for Bath and Body Works candles as of recently I might think you’re insane. Last week, the candles were $10 each and I had a coupon for $10 off $40 so they actually ended up being $7.50 each. The coupon is: F165207 at check out and if you’re in store here is the coupon. Right now the candles are at $11.25 so get them while they’re this cheap!

I recently got this mascara kit for Christmas. You get to try 5 different types of mascaras and then get a full size one once you pick which one you like most. I’m still deciding which one I want to get but this was definitely one of my favorite gifts. If you’re looking for a new mascara check it out in stores at Sephora.

I have this weird obsession with painting my nails and 2017 is no different. I received this nail polish, Tickle My Franc-y , from one of my best friends and I literally cannot stop reaching for this color. It’s been a month and I can’t seem to paint my nails any other color. This pink shade of nude nail polish is perfect for any occasion so definitely check it out.

The Butter London lipgloss in Hot Totty is from Marshall’s. They’re usually $20-$34 depending where you buy it from and what color it is… I scored mine for $5. Like my nail polish, I keep reaching for this lip gloss. It smells good, stays put, is incredibly moisturizing, and it makes me feel like a princess. So yes, I’m slightly obsessed. Be on the look out when you’re shopping at Marshall’s or T.J.Maxx you never know what you’ll end up with.

To stay on track in 2017, I think everyone needs a good planner. Last year, I purchased a similar planner to this one. I love Ban.do‘s planners because they don’t have lines on the days of the week. One thing I really like doing with my planners is drawing on them instead of writing down the event. Ban.do also does a great way to make the planner as interactive as possible by including multiple compliments and activities to do on random pages. You can see last year’s planner here and see all of the wonderful features pictured. The differences between this year’s and last year’s planner is that there are more note pages, different drawings/compliments/activities and there are more stickers that you can use. Kind of a win-win.

I agree with Ban.do when they say don’t look back. I hope this year brings you all joy, happiness, and health. Focus on the positive and hopefully make this year the best it can be. Let me know in the comments down below if you have any New Year’s Resolutions for this upcoming year or if you have any necessities to bring on this wonderful year.

Happy January 4th!

As always,

5 Trends to Fall in Love With in 2016

Published on January 12, 2016 by PeculiarPorter11 Comments

Hello darlings! Last week I posted about 5 Trends to leave in 2015 If I somehow ruined your life and you got rid of your 5 favorite trends… here are 5 new ones to get on board with. I mean… that is if you haven’t already fallen in love with them in 2015.

Suede

Sude refers to a type of leather that has as soft, napped finish. Suede can come in many different colors but is most typically a light tan color. Suede is a great addition to your winter wardrobe because it is a very warm material. It also can add a new texture to your wardrobe and who doesn’t love that?

Leather

Leather is always a fashion yes. You don’t have to get it real and you don’t have to get it fake. It’s your preference and I’m not judging you either way. No matter if you typically dress chic, girly, or edgy there is a type of leather for you. Like suede, I love how it adds a different texture to any outfit. It’s a great material to give your outfit a different dimension. It’s also a great material for going out in.

70’s

You would think this picture is from back in the day… it is actually from Free People’s campaign right now. 2016 is going to be full of mixed prints, chiffon dresses, suede jackets, fur jackets, and all that 70’s fun. I love it. Who doesn’t love a throwback outfit?

Bohemian

I love this trend/style so much! I talked a little bit about it here, but I just can’t get enough of the bohemian look. Not only is it the most comfortable thing ever, but it’s just so darn comfy. I’m a sucker for comfy clothes that look chic at the same time. I love how lace can be paired with funky patterns or even just a lot of chained necklaces giving an outfit a voice. I said it before and I’ll say it again… I just love this style so much!

Fringe

Fringe has been out for a while and it’s here to stay! I love how casual it makes an outfit. It’s a nice addition to the bohemian trend. It’s a great statement piece that can add a lot to an outfit. Although it is a bohemian piece, it doesn’t always have to be styled that way. For example these pictures show it in an edgy, feminine, and classic way.

Do you think there are going to be any more trends I should look out for? Agree/disagree with any of these trends? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear your opinions!

As always,

5 Trends to Leave in 2015

Published on January 5, 2016January 12, 2016 by PeculiarPorter6 Comments

Hello darlings! Pack your bags! We’re leaving these trends in 2015 and finding some better ones in 2016. I have listed my five least favorite trends of 2015… I’m sorry at least one of these is probably going to offend someone. But you’re entitled to your own opinion! Let me know what you think of this list in the comment section!

Culottes

I just don’t understand culottes so maybe that is why I’m hating on them. Why not just wear a midi skirt? I’d rather wear a midi skirt that these puffy pants. These crazy clown pants seem to make the skinniest person look two sizes bigger (insert the Grinch’s heart growing two sizes big). They somehow even managed to make a button down look sloppy. Peace out Culottes!

Sheer

I do admit I like sheer sometimes. Sheer can be worn in a nice way, but I don’t think it should be used for a day time look. I think it is a little to revealing to go shopping with friends, out to lunch, or even doing errands. If you’re going to a club or a bar, I think it’s okay.

Mismatched earrings

I’ll never understand this fad. Do people really just not want to turn on the light in the morning when they get ready? What earring goes on what side? If you only like one earring do you buy two pairs so they can match?

Flared pants

Flared pants are great for very thin women to create curves. I’m only adding it to this list because I’m secretly jealous that I cannot pull them off. I admit I’m bitter. Props to you if you can pull them off and I’ll let it slide in 2016 if you can, in fact, pull them off.

Painted on eyebrows

I might get some hate for this one. I’m not a fan of the overly done eyebrows. I know the majority of the population is, but hear me out. When they look like any of the following pictures it makes the eye go directly to your eyebrows instead of your eyes. I think when you look at a person you should look them in the eye… It’s respectful. When your eyebrows look like a coloring book it’s a little distracting.

What’s your opinion? Do you agree or disagree with some of my choices? Feel free to defend one of these trends and link your blog of you rocking one of these trends.

As always,

Reflect: Study Abroad

Published on December 29, 2015December 29, 2015 by PeculiarPorter8 Comments

Hello darlings! If you’ve tuned into my blog for the past four months you would have realized I was exploring all of Europe. I am incredibly fortunate to have been able to see as much as I did. I ended up going to eight countries and sixteen major cities.

These were my weekends.

Siena, Italy

I studied in Siena and I wouldn’t have changed the location for the world. It’s an adorable Tuscany city with rustic buildings and contada flags everywhere. I walked to school every day and saw some of the most beautiful buildings. I may have left this adorable town, but I will not forget it.

Sunday Snapshot: I keep getting lost but at least I have Gelato

I’m slowly adjusting

Christmas in Italy

Rome, Italy

Mickey and I headed three hours south to see the wonderful Rome. I was blown away by how beautiful the Colosseum was and exhausted by how much we ended up walking… 14 miles. I’d do it all over again to see the rich history thrown across each crevice of the city.

“Roman Around”

Florence, Italy

We went on a wine tour between Florence and Siena. It was amazing. They gave us delicious wine and truffle oil. I would recommend the wine tour we did. We also explored Florence the next day and saw the busy city.

Grapes are Healthy

Sardinia and Pisa

Our class took us to Sardinia. Before we left to Sardinia we had to go north to catch a flight in Pisa. We were able to tour before we left. If you want to see Pisa only go for a day! That is all you need. It is breathtaking though. Cagliari beaches were amazing, but I wouldn’t have picked the location based on how clean the city was. However, I’d do it again to see that picture again. Also, I tried snails, liver, and cow intestines in Sardinia… Woohoo.

Sardinia and Pisa

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre was my favorite town that I visited in Italy. It was so beautiful and the food was amazing. I would go back in a heartbeat. There is a reason these five towns are so photographed!

Cinque Terre: The 5 Colorful Towns

Amalfi Coast: Sorrento, Positano, Capri, and Pompeii

Going inside the Blue Grotto was one of the most surreal things I’ve ever experienced. I would recommend it to anyone who is studying broad in Italy. The man sings to you and you try your best not to cry at the beauty.

Rain Can’t Even Make Italy Look Dull

Assisi, Italy

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi was my favorite Cathedral I went to. The amount of detail in every corner is incredibly impressive. Plus look at the view outside of the Cathedral…

Restful Week in Italy

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona was my favorite place I visited. The people were friendly, the architecture was amazing, and the food was mouthwatering. There wasn’t one thing I didn’t like about Barcelona… other than the shoes I wore at night…RIP

Beauty of Barcelona

Paris, France

I was a little nervous about going to France because I heard the people are rude. That was not the case in my experience. Everyone was so friendly. One of our waiters was actually excited to speak English to us! What a lovely city.

Parisian Way

England: Ashford, Folkestone, Canterbury, and London

England is a close runner up to my favorite place. I have never met nicer people in my life. Everything was just ‘lovely’. My favorite was probably stocking up on Cadbury Chocolate. Already thinking about going back to stock up on more.

The Biggest Ben I’ve Ever Seen

Prague, Czech Republic

I was bewildered by how fantastic Prague was. I mean just feast your eyes on the pictures below! I got to feed swans and write on walls. What could you hate about that?

No prague-blems Here!

Venice, Burano, Murano, Verona

When I was planning trips in the summer I said I needed to see Venice. I mean in a few years you don’t know if it will still be above water. Walking the streets and taking boats to the distant island was like a dream to me.

All that Glisters is not Gold

Ireland

Ireland made me very homesick! I loved the beautiful, vibrant town filled with thick brogue voices. I’m also very impressed that neither Courtney nor I flew off the Cliffs of Moher!

Irish You Were Here

Budapest, Hungary

We spend way too much time huddled in the little pathway of the Christmas market and I’m incredibly okay with it. I mean look at that picture… I know you’d do the same!

What a Budaful Place to Be

So that was my experience in a couple of words and a few pictures! My advice? If you’re thinking about studying abroad, do it. It’s such a rich and rewarding experience. If you have any questions or need some travel advice feel free to ask me questions in the comment section. I might even create a blog post if I have too much to say… which will probably be the case!

As always,

Ouch! Tattoo Story

Published on June 30, 2015June 30, 2015 by PeculiarPorter4 Comments

Hello darlings! Sharing something a little bit more personal today. I got my first and only tattoo in September. After I came home from the gym, I told my roommates about my idea of getting a tattoo and just never knew when I was going to get it. They joked and said, “Why not now?” I took them literally and later that night I got a tattoo at Lark Tattoo in Albany. Don’t think I was being spontaneous because in reality I wasn’t. I’ve wanted this tattoo since senior of high school. It means a lot to me.

What it means: The quote of my tattoo is technically, “At 211 degrees, water is hot. At 212 degrees, water boils. One extra degree of effort can separate the good from the great” but my tattoo means a little bit more than that to me. I’m a very persistent person. I like things neat. I like things done right. I try my hardest at everything. That means relationships, work, exercise, you name it. I don’t believe in short cuts. I think it’s cheating. In order to feel accomplished in something, you need to know that you worked your absolute hardest. If I hand something in to a teacher and know that it isn’t my absolute best work then I think it was a waste of time. In order to feel accomplished, do your best at everything. If something goes horribly wrong at least you’re not questioning yourself if you could have done better on it. So, yeah, thats what my tattoo means to me. Sure I got it at an awkward time, but I knew I wanted it.

Picking a place: Originally I wanted it on my ribs, but I changed my mind because I thought about when I’m older and down the line if I either get fat or have kids it will most likely stretch out and then I would hate the way it looks.

What it feels like: Most people are scared of the needles and think it is going to hurt. It might just be because my tattoo is very small, but my tattoo did not hurt at all. It felt like putting three index cards together and scratching yourself. In a weird and almost alarming way it was comforting. My tattoo artist was also British so he kept joking with me and asking why I couldn’t just get 100° (the temperature water boils in celsius). Also his daugher’s due date was on my birthday so that is super duper awesome. Once the tattoo is healed it feels like regular skin unless if scars which then it feels bumpy. Lucky for me, mine did not scar (yet again because it’s very tiny and I had a great tattoo artist).

If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo I do recommend thinking about it. It will be on your body for the rest of your life. I recommend getting it when you know you’re done growing. Personally, I don’t think teenagers (who are still growing) should get it because you are still growing and you might change your mind. When you get a tattoo, the artist will draw it out for you multiple times and place it on your body multiple times. Make sure you like every single part of it. Don’t be worried about telling the artist that you want to fix something or you want it lower or higher. It’s your body and it will be on your body for the rest of your life. Think about it.

Join the discussion: What do you think about tattoos?

As always,