Then high school came along, and I made some new discoveries about myself and the world. I am definitely different than I was when I was 12. I've made mistakes, formed new opinions, and have grown as a person. And right there, in a parallel life, the boys of One Direction were growing up, changing their style, and even making mistakes. They provd time and time again that they are human. I am human, too, and for me the understanding that my idols fuck up too was reassuring. //

Alright, skip ahead to now. I am a junior in high school. I've started thinking about college, and moving out, and financingc and other adult things. I'm not a child anymore, and that is terrifying. My childhood is slowly but surely ending, and I think this whole 1D hiatus/possible lead to breakup pretty much sums that realization up. One Direction has been there for 5 years. They've become a part of me. (Yes this is totally cliché and I'm sORRY). I'm not ready for them to leave, but also I'm not ready to leave home and be a functioning human in society. // 

With my emotions high, I want to once again say thank you. A million times, thank you. 

Louis-- thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for making me smile. And thank you for holding in what you're feeling just for the sake of your fans. Your constant positivity and smiles are appreciated, but remember, it's ok to do something for yourself.

Niall-- you're 22! Thank you for sharing your birthday with me last night. Thank you for your love and admiration for us directioners. I'm pretty sure you're an angel from heaven. 

Liam-- you are probably the most underappreciated man who has ever graced this planet. Your voice sounds like chocolate & sex. Thank you for always being truthful, even if it's sometimes blatant. People like you, with opinions and feelings that they're not afraid to express, are so important.  

Zayn-- hey pal. Even though you left the band, I still love you. Things are hard, and I hope you take some time to yourself. Get to know who you are. Sort things others. good luck, old friend. 

Harry-- Oh god, Harry, I love you. Thank you for preaching love and acceptance. We need to hear more of that in this world. Thank you for being you. I know that you don't even know I exist, but that's okay. I'm not asking for attention. I just want to thank you for all you've done for me. You've touched my life in more ways than you will ever, ever know. // 

I want to love like you made me feel, when we were 18.

~

Alright now for the fun stuff!! 

WHERE TO SHOP THIS LOOK: 

Dress- Free People (on sale- $30)

Kimono- Charlotte Russe ($22)

Boots- Payless

Choker- Topshop ($12)

Pocketwatch Necklace- Claire's ($17)

Fake Septum Ring- handmade

Greetings earthlings ✌. I know it's been quite a while since I've posted on here. My summer assignments have been keeping me quite busy, seeing as I have to read 2 books, write an essay, and write about 8 various articles. Unfortunately, all of this work means I've had to discipline myself a lot, and then in my few hours of "free time" a day, writing more is the last thing I wanted to do. (I still love you guys and I love keeping up with this blog, but a girl needs a break sometimes). However, I am back now, and ready to post about how I stay positive and happy even when I'm stressed out, angry, sad, or feeling any other negativity (Feat. cute animal gifs to make you smile.) //

1. Shopping. Pretty self-explanatory. Shopping is one of my favorite ways to treat myself when I'm feeling down. Going out and splurging a bit on that piece you really like is like getting a Christmas gift & it feels really great to pay attention to yourself and treat yo' self. (Don't do this too often though, as you do want to be financially smart and stable.)

2. Take a bath. Don't just take an ordinary bath, but set up a spa for yourself. Turn your lights low, light some lavender and vanilla candles, turn on some light music, and fill your tub with bubbles. (If possible, I'd also suggest a bathbomb or scented bath salts for aroma.) Just focus on the present moment, and as you soak in the water, feel the stress of the day ease off your shoulders. 

3. Eat, and drink water. Staying hydrated and well-fed is key to feeling good throughout the day. If you've hit a rough spot in the day or if you find you're feeling too tired to go on, hop up and make yourself a health smoothie, a salad, chips and salsa, or another healthy snack you enjoy. The extra energy and needed break will give you motivation to carry on with the day. Remember, food is not the enemy.

4. Practice meditation. Taking even 10 minutes out of your day to focus on your body and mind can make a big impact. When you start to feel that nervous, stressed, and anxious breathing and worry coming on, just stop what you'redoing  and sit back. Take 10 minutes or more focusing on your breath. Take deep inhales and let out long exhales. As you breathe, feel the way your body moves and feels. Let thoughts pass by, like clouds. Your only concern is here and now. When you've calmed down, you can continue working with a new, positive attitude.

5. Talk to a friend. My friends and I have a tendency to say "ok rant time" whenever we're frustrated, and proceed to tell the others about what's bothering us. We don't really expect advice or sympathy, but just knowing that there are people who love you and are willing to listen makes things seem a bit better. Friends have a way of making you feel beautiful, and sharing your frustrations with them is beneficial in lightening your load and boosting your self-worth in moments of negative thought.

6. Look at a painting, read a poem/book, sit in nature; find an escape. Sometimes, we can find beauty in life by putting ourselves into new situations. Art truly is a reflection of nature, and both can give new inspiration and motivation to humankind. It's always a good idea to have beautiful pieces to think about and to become part of, even if temporarily. The stories they tell can help you get your mind off of your present story, and also encourage you to keep going, but maybe in a new way.

7. Take a nap. If you just can't stop feeling worn out by life, you deserve this reward. Just close your eyes, relax, and sleep it off. You'll wake up feeling rejuvenated and refreshed (or maybe slightly drowsy, but still content.) 

8. Read my blog. JK, unless you want to, then by all means, go ahead. After all, I have these gifs, which can only bring a smile to your face. Plus, I love you and want you to have the best life you can. You only get one, so make it count. ❤️