Nostalgia

As some of my younger friends start going back to school, I can't help but think about the four years I spent in college. My journey from start to finish was a long, stressful, tedious one-- yet it was also full of laughter, adventures, and learning experiences.




Richmond taught me how to be a strong and brave-- a person who could visualize and overcome obstacles. And Gettysburg showed me how to make friends, appreciate the ones I already had and most importantly, who I was as an individual. Being able to start over some place new on my own was so beneficial to me because at that point in time all I had to rely on was myself. It took me a full year and a half at Gettysburg to finally figure these things out, but it was worth it. Looking back now, I couldn't be where I am today without all of what came before and I am so grateful for that.

Bargain hunting

As a broke, unemployed college graduate, you are forced to search high and low for that perfect bargain-- the one item you must have at a price that is absolutely affordable. Yesterday afternoon, my mother and I went to Kohl's and I found these wonderfully simple black heels that will look completely polished and professional with my grey suit. They aren't Nine West, but they will certainly do the job for $13!

More and more I have come to appreciate the happiness that bargain hunting can bring. Shopping has always been one of my favorite past times and ways to unwind or disconnect from my life-- whether or not I end up buying anything. (Although, I won't lie, it's much more fun to be able to bring something home!) It's just nice to be able to think about what's in front of you at the moment, as opposed to all the distractions and frustrations that can arise in every day life. When I was still at the University of Richmond, I took daily trips to the various malls across the city-- walking, listening, browsing and people watching. Sometimes I would catch a movie or treat myself to one of my favorite restaurants in town and just enjoy being alone.