Pretty in Ink: Que Sera Sera

Whatever will be, will be... What a wonderful song. While it does not imply that we should throw caution to the wind and say, not study for finals ('tis the season), it is a nice reminder to stop wasting time dwelling on future uncertainties. Do your best and the rest will come.

In true perfectionist fashion, I began to get frustrated with the gold paint splotches that were not a part of my original vision... Until I realized that frustration was entirely hypocritical to my quote of choice. Go figure. Simply another reminder to laugh it off and not take every detail quite so seriously. But in all reality, as finals loom and holiday shopping ensues, keep it low key.

I hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving, and good luck to everyone taking finals. Breathe, de-stress a little, and go make some coffee (or take a nap? Your choice). Stay healthy, stay happy, and find your zen.

Let the exams begin, and may the curve be ever in your favor.

Much love,
Madison

Pretty in Ink: Confessions to Self

 

Just stop. Pause for a moment to step away from the list of things to do and things to perfect and things you wish you would have done differently. Stop worrying because you can't predict out the outcome of every single action or plan out exactly where you will be 10 years, 10 months, 10 days, or even 10 minutes from now. Not to say that we shouldn't maintain a set of goals and aspirations, but the future is not a promise. Life is constantly changing, whether it's because you directly made certain decisions or you indirectly found yourself in a situation. Sometimes you can come to a realization that entirely alters the path you thought you were on, and that can be scary. But guess what? It will be okay.

Lately, I've been on the verge of making a very big life change. I've realized that what I thought I wanted doesn't make me happy, and I'm not sure that it'll be worth all of the insanity and stress in the end because in the end, it's not my passion. I am absolutely terrified coming to the realization that I went from having one set course for so long, and now I kind of know what I want, but I have had absolutely no time to plan how to move forward with it. But with that token, how much worse would it be to end up resenting my decisions and wondering "what if"? 

In the wise words of a good friend, "You're neurotic, but you aren't that neurotic."

In all reality, type A people such as myself probably especially struggle with this, but no matter who you are, taking a leap of faith can be scary and uncomfortable. If your gut is telling you something though, there is probably a good reason. Do what is best for you long term, including mentally and emotionally. Take the time to evaluate payoffs. Most importantly, know yourself and love yourself. Someone else can't always call the shots for you; make your time count. It's impossible to do everything, so keep in mind what is really necessary and worthwhile.

Stay happy, stay healthy, and keep on hustlin' as always!
xoxo,
Madison

Pretty in Ink: Choosing to Sink or Swim

Life doesn't always go the way we plan. It isn't some simple, straightforward equation; it's messy. There are unexpected ups, downs, and the crazy twists and turns in between. More than anything, though, it's an experience. What's the good in having a routinely planned life with nothing to challenge you or to sweep you off of your feet only to show you something more wonderful than you ever imagined?

Sometimes, the only option is--please excuse the cheesy pun--to sink or swim. "Enjoy the ride" doesn't quite seem to cut it: some experiences aren't meant to be enjoyed. There are times for laughter and fun, but there are also times for pain and healing. The important part is knowing that there are bits and pieces to be picked up from each new adventure.

This whole past summer has been a whirlwind for me. My plans for jobs and internships didn't work out the way I initially wanted, while some other really amazing opportunities ended up presenting themselves, leaving behind memories I will never forget. More often than not, I dwell on the "ideal" direction I want to go in and end up in a completely different direction. Take my school for example. I was absolutely set on ending up at one, and I was crushed when it was the only one I wasn't accepted in to. The school I ended up going to though? It was never even on my radar until I got an invitation to apply for free. Quite honestly, I never even visited until my orientation (I know, crazy). Now I feel crazy for having ever even considered going somewhere else. Tulane is my home. I am in love with New Orleans. I know I'm where I'm meant to be.

That's the funny thing about life. Things have a knack of working out somehow. So embrace it, take what you can out of each and every day, and don't be too afraid to venture out of your comfort zone.

Much love,
Madison

Pretty in Ink: Sparkle and Shine

This post is particularly special to me. The woman in the photograph is not simply a glamorous, perfectly styled, elegant icon fitting of her captivating era. This woman is Dottie Williams, or more fondly known throughout my childhood as "Granny". Though I never met the woman in this picture, I did know a fabulous mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, who was just as stylish (even in her silk pajamas) until the very end. More importantly, I knew a woman who fiercely held onto her beliefs, her loved ones, and had a tenacity for loving life.

Aside from all of her exciting stories and wonderful sense of humor and aside from the glamor, her most notable quality was her big heart and unfailing kindness toward all people. Friends, family, and new acquaintances alike, she was always there as a shoulder to lean on or to offer a helping hand. These qualities--not beautiful clothes, perfect lipstick, or artfully coiffed locks--are the bits of sparkle left behind and remembered by all.

 I can only aspire to one day live up to the legacy of such an amazing lady. While that beautiful lipstick or chic new dress may put a little extra pep in my step on the way to my destination, I hope to have that extra sparkle of a positive attitude and a kind heart to contribute to the world.

P.S. Here are a few more pieces of her excellent style. She used to collect flower pins as a staple accessory. I've styled a few of my favorites on a mesh dress form previously used to hang earrings from. Aren't they adorable?

Never forget what (and who) is important, and always remember that we all have our own personal brands of sparkle. So throw on your signature accessory and take on the day with a smile.

xoxo
-Madison

Pretty in Ink: Liz Taylor Inspired

Personally, a pretty picture and a good quote always put an extra pep in my step and a better pace to my hustle—a mantra to keep me focused. This is the first of a new series I’m starting called Pretty in Ink, where every other week I’ll be posting a new illustration and inspirational quote.

As a style icon and a reminder of the glamorous days of Hollywood past, what isn’t there to love about Elizabeth Taylor? I’m a big fan of this quote, particularly when I start feeling like a crazy lady (more so than usual) because it’s just one of those hectic days. Hello, fresh mug of hazelnut coffee and MAC’s Cremesheen in Speed Dial.

 I hope you enjoyed it! If you have any suggestions or anything in particular you'd like to see, leave a comment!

xoxo