Bruno Mars - Grenade

...But you won't do the same.

Does anyone enjoy listening to this song as much as I do? While driving back and forth between San Diego & Los Angeles, this song came on the radio 4 times. I'm not sure whether that is a sign, or whether that just means it's new or just a song that everyone has been requesting--either way--I have been thinking a lot about music and how listening to a song can truly change your mood or even outlook on something.  Recently. I have found myself being critical of relationships. This time I have been thinking about ALL types of relationships: the ones with friends, family members,  the opposite sex, the same sex and even the relationship I have with myself. Listening to this song, it is almost hard to imagine a relationship that would compel me to put my hand on a blade for someone else, or even being so in love that I would risk everything I had for another person--but that's just the thing: some relationships are that powerful. My last post about being female was quite cynical, but I'd like to think that I will one day find that relationship where these extreme feelings are reciprocated.

Until then, I'm going to be a little more open minded about the relationships in my life and give each of them another chance. I am going to start giving all of them the benefit of the doubt. 

Fabulously Female

Being a female is fabulous. What better to be born than be born a with the XX chromosome? I have noticed that we females need to stick together: stand up for one another and embrace the sensual, sexual and sensitive beings that we very well are. Why is it that we often let ourselves be consumed with traditional stereotypes of how we fit within our culture? Why should we subordinate ourselves to the damsels of distress when some dude decides to be a douche bag or even allow ourselves to be convinced that the male portion of the population will even make us happy for that matter? I'm not trying to say that men are useless--there are plenty of reasons why they are decent to have around--but I'm an advocate for independence and self-actualization. I truly believe that there are just too many females that are taken advantage of and allow themselves to fall easily into a vicious and toxic trap purposely created by the opposite sex. If I've learned anything, it's the never ending list of differences between males and females. 

I have taken note of a few fearless women who have inspired me to go above and beyond what society expects. These bombshells have broken boundaries and have paved their own way to success. 

Be inspired, but more importantly: be inspiring. 

Ray At Night: Art Walk

Since my sister and I have been driving all over North Park and Hillcrest for the past few days, I have found myself falling more in love with every little bit of San Diego. Last night we checked out North Park's Monthly "Ray At Night" Community Art Walk and Showcase. Every second Saturday of the month, local art studios open their doors from 6-10pm and openly invite you to experience as they expose their art in galleries.  Local businesses like the Mystic Water Kava Bar & Yoga Studio even had a host DJ playing in the back. You might just find a few other local designers and artists lining the streets with merchandise and art to sell. There was even a cupcake truck!

Ray Street & North Park Way

3D Photographs & Magnets

 Wall Mural done by San Diego Art Institute Students

The Mint Collective | Cutest Rings Ever! 

Totally Recycled | Cardboard Art

2011

I can officially say that 2010 was the first year that I actually made New Year's Resolutions and feel as if I successfully accomplished them. This should be great, but I still feel like there is something missing about this whole "New Year's Resolutions" deal. After looking at my blog post from last year, I have realized a few things. Honestly, I thought making resolutions and following through with them would give me a sense of ownership over my actions in proving that I am able to do what it is I imagine is better for myself in the coming year, but in reality it may not be. Not even at all. This year, I have decided not to set "resolutions" per se, but rather set a more organized timeline of things I would like to do for the next twelve months. 

That means I have 8,760 hours (well less now considering it's nearly 2pm) and over 525,000 minutes to work on making this year better than the last. To begin my year-long timeline, I will of course begin with the basics: organization. I have noticed that I am a very excessive person and I feel as though all of my "excess" stuff is consuming my room, closet, apartment and life! I have been successful at actively avoiding my excessive-ness, and now it's time to face the problem and solve it. So, for the rest of the year, I am going to tackle organizing a different part of my life, my space, my finances, and my work each month. But take it a step further and actually make something of it, something that will help me stay organized for the future--whether that be a scrapbook of old photos or opening an Etsy shop. 

I have already vowed to continue to blog, but I want to be more active about connecting with and influencing others who are blogging as well. I am also promising to be nicer to myself; I really need to begin listen to my body when she tells me that she is tired, cranky or hungry. (It's time to take her to the gym more regularly too!) So here's to a new year: a 2011 that is organized, healthy and one that is going to be something to show for.