Wednesday, December 30, 2015

So Much Can Change In a Year...


























Finally, I had some time this evening to sit down and blog. Sorry I have been MIA the past month. Life has been non-stop with the holidays, traveling and working from home. But I could not let the year come to an end without reflecting back and sharing one last blog entry with you all before we embark on 2016!


This year by far has been one to remember. So many changes & so many things that all fell into perfect place...

I settled into a new city and still can't believe that I get to call New York home. I never imagined being so happy here and feeling so comfortable in such a short amount of time. It still feels exhilarating every day that I get to spend here.

I quit a job that I once dreamed of having. It in turn made me realize that you always have a choice to walk away from something if you are not happy. And it also made me take a chance on myself. I had no plan B and although it terrified me, I knew that my happiness was worth the risk. Even through other's doubts and questions of my next move, I realized that sometimes in life you are allowed to not have a plan. You do not owe anything to anyone. But you do owe yourself, everything!

I closed the door to my past for the last time. The classic story of too little to late. He would say "I'm sorry" and ask for me to come back and all I could do was say "I can't". Even though I know I will never love anyone as much as I loved him. I know I could never allow myself to go back. I used to not be that strong and would have done anything to let him back in my life but this time was different because well, I was different. 

I removed toxic people from my life, met new friends and even reconnected with old ones. I definitely believe everyone holds a purpose in your life no matter how long or short lived. However, life is so much better when you have the right people to share it with. And I am lucky to have such amazing family & friends in my life. I would not be the person I am without them. 

Most of all I learned to trust the journey. And by far the best lesson of 2015! You may not be exactly where you think you should be but trust me you are exactly where you are supposed to be. It's the moments that we often forget to enjoy because we are so focused on what comes next. So, as we welcome 2016 and a NEW YEAR ahead, my hope is for you to enjoy the moments along the way. The rest will fall into place. 


CHEERS to 2016! And thank you for following my journey!


XO,  Rae


Friday, November 13, 2015

Thursday Things: What I am Loving Right Now






HAPPY FRIDAY! I'm a day late on posting 'Thursday Things' but better late than never right?!  Tell me what you are LOVING right now below in the comments. 


1. MUSIC- If you are like me, you probably have the new Adele song 'HELLO' on REPEAT. Who else has the urge to call their ex and tell them everything you ever wanted to? Can't wait for her new album to drop on November 20th!



2. BEAUTY- I have recently rediscovered my love for CLINIQUE products. One of my new favorites is the Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm. It applies similar to a lipstick giving a tint to your lips but with the benefits of a lip balm. A MUST have for Winter! Also makes a great stocking stuffer. 



3. WEBSITE- theSkimm is my new friend in the mornings. It's a daily newsletter with all the top stories sent to you all bundled up in a morning friendly email. Check it out for yourself! 


Have a great weekend!



XO, Rae



Sunday, November 1, 2015

I ❤️ NY: 1 Year of Living in New York City


Photo Cred: Rae


I recently celebrated my 1 year anniversary of living in New York City. October 10th, 2014 at 3 am is when I officially became a New Yorker. As I drove over the George Washington Bridge into Manhattan, there were so many emotions. Mostly I remember feeling excited for what was to come with living in New York. There I was in a packed SUV with my best friend & my Mom. After 16+ hours of driving up the east coast, I was anxious to get to my new apartment. We pulled up shortly after 3 am and made the decision to go ahead and unload the SUV. My first dose of NYC apartment living was carrying boxes up five flights of stairs. I think I cursed most of the way up and down. After about an hour we finally had everything unloaded and into the apartment. I had seen the apartment in photos prior to moving but seeing my bedroom in person, it was even smaller than I remembered. I was unsure if any of my things would fit and wondered how could I live in such a small space. I mean here I was literally downsizing to a small bedroom barely big enough for a full size bed from my spacious 900+ sq. ft apartment in Atlanta. I started to break down. There it was, all the months of preparation of moving, leaving my job, leaving all of my friends & my life behind in Atlanta along with being cooped up in a car for 16+ hours all hit me at that exact moment. I remember I just slid down the wall as the tears ran down my face and I began to question everything. This went on for about an hour. Everyone was nice or maybe smart enough to just let me be alone for awhile. I finally pulled myself together and came out of my room, walked into my best friends bedroom where he, his boyfriend and my mom were all siting there drinking wine. My eyes all swollen from crying, I smiled and asked for a glass for myself. So there we sat until after 6 am drinking wine and laughing at my meltdown. I knew then that everything would be okay.


I look back on that day now and I think how happy I am that I took this journey of moving to New York. Living in New York has been exhilarating. It hasn't been perfect by any means but pretty darn close. The energy you feel here never wears off. That's what I love most about this city. You always feel inspired here. Each day is something different and to be in awe of. I can't describe it in words, you have to feel it for yourself. I hope that feeling never goes away. This past year has also had many unexpected moments. I landed an amazing job when I first got here and then quit after 6 months, I started a blog about my life and have taken the time to rediscover myself. The Subway once terrified me, now I'm the one getting asked for directions. I can hail a cab even in the rain. And I have even learned how to dress like a New Yorker. So many changes have happened in just a year but in a strange way, I feel it was all meant to be. 


I could not have made it through the past year without the support of my amazing friends and family....

To my Grandfather, who without him I would not have been strong enough to make the decision to move to NYC and make this life change. He inspired me to have no regrets in life and to him I will always be grateful for instilling that in me. I miss you everyday Granddaddy and I hope I am making you proud. 

To my Mother, who is always by biggest supporter in life. She never tells me my dreams are too big or too crazy. I owe her everything for always being there for me. I love you MOM!

To my brother and my Dad, Thank you for believing in me and telling me how proud you are. It means more than you will ever know. I love you both!

To my best friend Lindsey, thank you for taking my calls on good days and bad days. Most of all, thank you for not letting distance change our friendship! I am so lucky to have you as my friend. 

To Danny, Thank you for taking a chance in living with your boyfriend's best friend after have only meeting me once in person. Thank you for being there on days I needed it most. I am so glad we have become friends over the past year.

To my best friend Will, it was you who convinced me over the course of 5 years to move to New York. You knew way before I did that I would love it here. Thank you for always pushing me in life and always being there. I can't imagine my life without you. In the end, its always you & I.

To all of my friends and family who have encouraged me on this journey, who have called, sent cards, letters or just been there for me. Thank you!! Nothing in life is worth having if you can't share it with the people you love most.  


I knew moving to New York would change my life. I just didn't know how. And I am so glad it did. I am not the same person I was 12 months ago. I feel more confident, more open to change and more willing to let life take me where I am meant to be. My friends tell me how happy I sound on the phone so I guess it shows. Anything is possible if you let it be. Don't be afraid to make a life change. It could just be exactly what you need. Thank you New York for an incredible first year. I can't wait to see what this next year has in store!



XO, Rae





















Thursday, October 15, 2015

Thursday Things: What I am Loving Right Now




Here is another round up of things I am currently loving! Tell me what you are loving right now in the comments below. 


1. MUSIC- Loving the former two Danity Kane ladies new album DUMBLONDE. This album is full of dance pop songs. My favorite song is 'Carry On'. Check out more here on the new duo. 


2. NAILS- OBSESSED with the FALL 2015 Nail Colors. Check out what's hot for fall according to REFINERY29.


3. FITNESS- In efforts to shed some lbs before my Birthday. I have recently enjoyed doing some workouts from toneitup.com. What's better than a fitness program created by women for women? Download the app for Booty Call AM workouts, recipes and more! 


Have a great rest of the week!



XO, Rae

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Passionate Women & The Life They Lead





I love sharing articles that I find and hopefully you enjoy reading them. I recently came across this article on thebolde.com titled '13 Things Passionate Women Do Differently & Why They Stand Out From The Crowd.' I found this to be an interesting read and a few of the characteristics stood out for me personally.



#2 She smiles a lot- I will never forget the time I was called out at a staff meeting for being "the girl who is always smiling". I was new to my job and the CEO of the company decided to call me out in front of everyone. I mean at least it was a compliment but, I'm sure I got a few eye rolls from people. I would say that I definitely try to be the cheerleader for others. Especially in my experience as a manager, I try to be the energetic positive person. Smiling is contagious, after all. 


#7 She loves harder- I think I have always had this trait even as a young child. When I love, I give my everything. Maybe this is why I experience dissapointment on a deeper level. I believe there is nothing more powerful than loving someone whether it be in a relationship, with family or friends.


#11 She's constantly changing- Change within yourself is necessary. I think in order to grow you have to be open to change. And I have definitely embraced change more now than ever in my thirties. Although change is scary, so is regret.


So go ahead, stand out and LIVE PASSIONATELY.



XO, Rae 

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Fall To-Do List


{Photo taken at Grand Lake Lodge in Colorado}




I's finally starting to cool down here in New York City after being hot and humid the past few days. I can't wait to finally sip on a PSL and wear my favorite sweater and ankle boots. I also have some other things I am looking forward to doing this fall. Here is a look at my to-do list. 



1. Capture the perfect photo and create a Holiday Card to send to friends and family. I am thinking about ordering through SimplyToImpress.


2. Make a trip to Bath & Body Works to pick up some of my favorite scented candles.


3. Plan a day trip to a winery. This one has a tasting room in a renovated barn. 


4. Find some decor ideas for the table when hosting "FRIENDSGIVING" this year. I think this would be fun and easy. Love these purple ideas.


5. Enjoy the best of things to do in New York during Autumn. Of course this includes seeing the fall foliage in Central Park.


6. Find the perfect pair of snow boots. I want stylish but functional. So far, I like these the most. 


7. Visit the New York Botanical Garden to see the FRIDA KAHLO exhibit. 


8. Bake up some new recipes. This one looks yummy!


9. See the Broadway Show WICKED


10. Go to the iconic Village Halloween Parade






XO, Rae

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Comfortable In My Own Skin





I have always had body issues ever since I can remember. I have never been skinny even as an adult. My weight has always fluctuated partially to bad habits, not enough exercise and skipping meals. I've never wanted to be super skinny, maybe just a thinner version of myself. It wasn't until I turned 27, that I really started to embrace my body. And for once I began to feel comfortable in my own skin. I don't remember what the pivotal moment was. I just remember I stopped being so hard on myself about trying to be a certain size or achieve a certain weight. For so long I had fought with my self confidence and only saw myself as how I compared to others. 

Even at the age of 32, I still fluctuate with my weight and I will probably always be nagging over those 20lbs. But I don't let myself get down about it. I just work a little harder and eat smarter if I don't like what I see in the mirror. I will never be skinny by any means. Personally, I just don't want to be that way. I like having curves, boobs and a booty. I ultimately just want to be healthy. I don't want to be defined by a number but rather how I feel in my own skin.

It's refreshing to see more and more women embracing their bodies and for women of all sizes being accepted more now than ever. Amy Schumer is known as being the funny girl. But she is serious when it comes to owning her body weight and telling everyone just what she thinks if they have a problem with it. I mean for a plus size model like Ashley Graham to walk in New York Fashion Week. That is a game changer in the fashion industry. It opens up so many people to have a different outlook on what is to be considered a "normal body" in today's society. And it also shows that women can be beautiful at any size. I've always admired Christina Aguilera and her stance on body image. She makes no apologies and owns her flaws. I think that is inspiring for us as women to see celebrities be just like us and struggle with the same issues we have.  

You are NOT your weight. You are beautiful no matter what size you are.  And only once you truly begin to realize that will you learn to love yourself even more. Don't let society, family, friends or even your own insecurities dictate how you perceive yourself. Be happy. Be healthy. And love your body, flaws and all!





XO, Rae




Friday, September 25, 2015

It's Not Me, It's You





Mandy Hale, otherwise known as The Single Women posted this quote the other day on her FB page. (Go follow her, seriously) It was just too good not to share. My last serious relationship was one that took me awhile to get over. The love was always there between us but unfortunately he wasn't always there. I wanted to hold on so bad that I ultimately lost myself in the process. I'm sure some of you can relate to having that one relationship that you wish you could go back and tell yourself to run! Although the relationship has been over for some time now, when I read this quote it resonated with me. I mean this isn't a new concept but, something about seeing the words and reading it out loud hit me hard. I can remember trying to justify why he did what he did in our relationship. Why he stepped out. Why he made me feel like it was me. Why he couldn't commit. And there I would be trying to make it all sound less shitty by pointing out all of my imperfections in the relationship and taking some of the blame. When here is the simple truth. He couldn't offer me what I deserved in a relationship. We tried so many times to put the pieces back together that I lost count. And even though I have moved on, I wish I would have realized sooner that I wasn't asking for too much in our relationship. It's sad that we can allow someone to make us feel as if we are asking for too much so we start to settle for what they can actually offer us and make excuses for the rest. I know deep down I always knew he wouldn't be the one to give me what I needed or deserved, but sometimes it helps to see it in bold letters. We are all worthy of having the right person who can give us everything we deserve and more without feeling as if we are asking for too much. I'm not giving up and neither should you. 



XO, Rae

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

3 Apps You Need In Your Life!





Life is busy and sometimes we need the help of life's simple pleasures also known as apps from the app store. It is often necessary  to save time in our hectic day and stay productive on the go. So here are 3 apps that I can't live without and neither should YOU. 



1. EVER NOTE- You can use this app for so many things. Create notes and checklists on the go, store snap shots of business cards, save articles to read later and you can access everything from multiple devices. I can quickly make my 'to do' list for the day, a grocery list and set reminders for my day. If your looking for a way to stay organized, you need this app. I can't get through my day without it!


2. INK- I LOVE this app because I can easily send personalized greeting cards to friends and family straight from my phone. I seriously use it all the time! The app offers a ton of options for different types of cards and you can even upload photos from your phone to be added. And the best part is that it only cost $1.99. Cheaper than a store bought card and it usually ships within 3-5 business days. I promise you will love it too!


3. NYC Way- If you live in New York or if you're planning to visit the City, you will definitely want to get this app! This app is like having multiple apps all in one. It includes everything from nearby places with Wi-Fi, events in the city, Subway maps, Yoga studios, Broadway Shows and even has the lighting schedule for the Empire State Building. This app has been a great way for me to get more familiar with New York City and is my go-to when friends & family visit from out of town.



DOWNLOAD these apps and get on with your busy day! 



XO, Rae

NYC Living: Dinner at PRUNE






New York is a food city, no doubt. With so many restaurants, it is often hard to choose, but there are some that are like none other. Living with a foodie, my best friend has been dying to go to PRUNE. On Sunday, we finally had the experience of dinning at PRUNE for dinner. Located in the East Village, this popular restaurant is known for it's amazing Chef Gabrielle Hamilton. She is also an author of a New York Times Best Seller book called 'Blood, Bones and Butter: The Inadvertent Education of a Reluctant Chef'. We were lucky enough to have the first seating for dinner at 5:30pm. When we arrived I was able to capture a rare moment of the restaurant completely empty. There is often a line outside to get in especially for brunch. Although the restaurant is small in size, the experience is anything but. And to make the night even more complete, we spotted Chef Gabrielle Hamilton walking by the restaurant with boxes in tote. Below are some of the amazing dishes we devoured during our meal. Cocktails were amazing as well. Can't wait to visit again soon for brunch. I definitely recommend PRUNE if your willing to spend a bit on delicious good quality food. 


Featured Appetizer: Fried Oysters with house tarter sauce


Halibut with cherry tomatoes in a spicy tomato broth

Grilled Broccoli, chili butter, pecorino 

Charred Beef Ribs with anchovy butter



'Straw and Hay' Pasta with green tomato-chicken liver sauce

Dessert: Summer Pudding



GO EAT!





XO, Rae



Thursday, September 3, 2015

NYC Summer Must See & Do

*All Photos are original and personally taken by Rae



Summertime sadness is quickly approaching as we will soon have to say goodbye to tan lines, beach days, outdoor drinking and shorts & tank tops. But before you pack up your swimsuits and replace them with sweaters, there is still time to enjoy some amazing things in New York City. Being that this is my first Summer in New York City, I wanted to take advantage of everything that the city has to offer. And I have to say there is plenty to keep you busy all Summer long. I wanted to share some of my favorites...so I compiled a list. Your welcome :)



The High Line





The High Line is an elevated public park that is actually built on an old freight rail line located in the Meat Packing district. It's kinda of like an adult playground with lots seating and luscious landscape. There is even a splash pad to cool off your feet that you can walk through along a section of the park. Great for reading a book or just relaxing and bathing in the sun. Often you can find events, public art and food and drink vendors along the High Line. Also, a plus is that Chelsea Market is near by. Chelsea Market is an indoor food hall including a mix of different restaurants, pop up shops and local artists. Perfect way to spend a Summer afternoon.




Jones Beach


Summer would not be complete without a trip to the beach. Jones Beach is located on the south shore of Long Island. The beach is near a boardwalk where you can grab a bite or shop at one of the local shops. Also near by is the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater. After a day at the beach you can keep the party going and attend a concert. Click here for more details on fees and access to the beach as well as beach rentals. Grab your swimsuit, pack up the cooler and head out to Long Island for a Beach day.





On Friday and Saturday's from 5pm-8pm The Met Museum rooftop turns into a social hour with signature cocktails, martinis and light snacks. Access is granted with a purchased Museum ticket. Luckily, The Met is pay as you wish. So you can get in for the less expensive ticket price which is $12.95. There is no other rooftop bar that will give you access to such breathtaking panoramic views of the NYC skyline. Great for meeting up with friends and enjoying a few drinks to start off the weekend. You have never seen Central Park or the city quite like this!


Every Thursday from 12:30pm-1:30pm July-August you have a chance to see a sneak peak of on and off Broadway shows courtesy of Broadway In Bryant Park. There is often free giveaways and if you arrive early you can catch the warm up performances. Seats fill up quickly and are first come first serve. Grab a snack and enjoy the show!




Ice Cream Spots



These are not your ordinary Ice Cream shops. A favorite of mine is BIG GAY ICE CREAM, this place is all about unicorns and funky ice cream combinations. And Mister Softee is a local favorite, you can find this gem of an ice cream truck driving around all over Manhattan. Nothing is better than delicious cold ice cream when your trying to beat the Summer heat. For more local ice cream spots, click here for these listed by neighborhood. 







Thanks to UNIQLO every FRIDAY MoMA is FREE from 4pm-8pm. 
Free admission includes special exhibits also. Get there early because the line tends to wrap around the building. And be prepared to be in a crowd of art lovers. Great way to spend an evening with a friend or a date while you gaze away at art. 




Share your favorite Summer things to do in NYC in the comments below. 





XO, Rae



Tuesday, September 1, 2015

New Beginnings






Today is the start of a new month and a new season is right around the corner. It seems like the perfect time for new beginnings. I have been embarking on a new journey since moving to New York almost a year ago. And now that I am currently changing careers, I find myself embarking on yet another new beginning. But that's the beauty in life, you can decide how and when you want your new beginning to be. I know often it is not easy to make a life change no matter what it is. As women, we struggle to find the balance in life and also make time for ourselves. We often think "why can't I have my dream life"? Well the truth is, you can. You can choose at anytime to be who you want to be. You can seek out that new job or follow your dreams and be your own boss. You can loose that 20 lbs. you've been frustrated over.  And you can let go of that relationship that has been holding you back. All of these things are possible. You just have to decide that you want it bad enough. I know, it's not as easy as it sounds. I struggle with this myself and often have to remind myself to not look back but to look forward. There are moments I want to give up because it seems impossible. Every day is not perfect and there are still days I question everything. But I know that in the end I will regret it if I don't at least try. So with a new month ahead, I am reminded of all the possibilities. And continue to set new goals to keep myself motivated. Give yourself the chance to prove to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to. YOU CAN DO IT! 



XO, Rae

Saturday, August 29, 2015

20 Random Facts About Me




You visit my blog, support me & share this journey with me here, so I thought you may want to know a bit more about me. Here are 20 Random Facts to entertain you…



1. Rae is actually my middle name. It wasn't until my twenties that I really started to embrace it.

2. Happiest when I am CREATING or PLANNING something. 

3. Thinks handwritten 'Thank You' notes never go out of style. 

4. Real Housewives junkie. Shout out to Bethenny Frankel

5. Queen of 'TO DO' Lists. 

6. I LOVE WINE. Wine makes me HAPPY. 

7. Knows all the words to The Notorious B.I.G. "Juicy"

8. Music is my therapy. 

9. Secretly wish I could sing and perform on stage. 

10. Fall is my favorite season. Pumpkin EVERYTHING! 

11. Proud supporter of yoga pants & tank tops. 

12. Always have wanted to get a tattoo.

13. The Bigger the better. Hoop earrings that is.

14. Carries at least 3 shades of Lip Gloss at all times. 

15. Favorite Movie: Dirty Dancing 

16. The word Ya'll will always be in my vocabulary. 

17. Naturally a Red head. 

18. Never thought I would actually move to NYC

19. Turning 30 was a game changer for me.

20. Song I most relate to right now is Jessie J- "Masterpiece"



Tell me a random fact about yourself. Comment below. 



XO, Rae

Friday, August 28, 2015

Your Job Shouldn't Define Who You Are





Lately, I dread the question "what do you do?"  It's often the first thing asked when meeting new people. It's only natural to ask someone in effort to get to know them, but it often comes with a reaction based on the answer given. I have never had hesitation in answering to others what my career is until now. I have always had a job and position in which I was excited to share and tell about. But now that I am not working, this question has made me almost cringe when asked. I have yet to quite figure out how to answer this question. 

Not because I am embarrassed but because I want people to know more about me and not just how I pay my bills. It's not like I want to just say well, I quit my high paying job to stay home, write about my life and sketch handbags. Doesn't sound so appealing, right? And honestly most people may not understand it. Especially new people that come into my life. I'm pretty sure my parents and friends are still trying to wrap their minds around it. I feel like no matter how I answer the question, it sounds the same. And my career prior to now almost feels discredited because new people in my life don't know my prior accomplishments.

Let's be honest, when you find out someone isn't working, usually the reaction is negative or envious. You might even make a comment like "oh, must be nice." I'm sure I have been guilty of this myself. Regardless of the reason why, not having a defined job can have a negative connotation. Often we judge others based on what they do for a living. Especially living in New York, career is everything. You walk among movers and shakers on the streets everyday. Most people move here only to take their career to the next level. Don't get me wrong. I have zero regrets about quitting my job. Your job should be what you do, not who you are. For once in my life, I'm not known as "girl who works to much". My job was my life. I barely allowed for anything else to take place because I was always putting work first. And most of the time I wasn't happy.

There is more to me than what I do what for a living. I am a creative, ambitious, loyal to a fault girl who will always want the most out of life. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared of failure but I want to know that I at least tried. I am constantly evolving and growing into the person I want to become. Who I am today is not who I was ten years ago or even 10 months ago for that matter. I hope to add 'Successful Entrepreneur' to my next resume!



XO, Rae


Friday, August 21, 2015

Girls Night Out Playlist





HELLO FRIDAY! 

When I lived in Atlanta, I listened to Q100's The Bert Show in the mornings. The cast of the show would often come up with different playlists for all sorts of occasions. I thought it would be fun to create a playlist of my own in honor of GNOAfter a long week, you deserve a night out with the Girls! And since it is FRIDAY and all, seems only fitting to commence a Girls Night. SO CALL YOUR GIRLS, DOWNLOAD THE PLAYLIST AND HIT THE TOWN!



Katy Perry "This Is How We Do"......This is the song that gets you amped up and sets the mood for the night. 


Jessie J "Burnin' Up"......You pour yourself a cocktail.


Beyoncé "Freakum Dress"......You head over to your closet and pick out your outfit for the night.


Justin Timberlake "Damn Girl"......You start getting dressed and feeling a slight buzz. 


Nicki Minaj "The Night Is Still Young".....Your girls are arriving and a dance party ensues in the living room. 


Beyoncé "7/11"......You're  dressed, your girls have arrived and makeup & hair are on fleek.


Taylor Swift "Shake It Off"...... Now everyone has a drink poured, you take some group photos and of course a selfie. This last song plays as you get ready to head out for the night and shake off the week! 


And there you have it, my playlist for Girls Night Out! 


Have a favorite song that gets you amped up for GNO? Comment below. 



CHEERS!



XO, Rae





Check out the Bert Show Facebook page.

Sunday, August 16, 2015

Never Too Late to Choose a New Career






I came across an article on Facebook today shared by the page of What Not to Wear and had to share!

The article was published by MyDomaine.

         



I can completely relate to this article. At the age of 32, I am now seeking a new career after being in the medical field for most of my adult life. I loved being in medical and managing but I  have always felt like there is more out there for me. Being creative in any sense is where my passion lies. Creating my blog has helped me to get that creativity back in my life. I love event planning and have a new passion for designing handbags. Who doesn't love a good handbag?! Ambitious, I know. Life is short and I want to be able to wake up every day and truly be excited about what I do. It shouldn't feel like work so much as it should feel like fulfilling your dreams. I had no idea that these very successful women started their careers later in life. It's inspiring to say the least. If you are also contemplating a new career, I encourage you to read this article. Your thirties are just the beginning.



XO, Rae 






Saturday, August 15, 2015

Last Days of SUMMER





HAPPY SATURDAY! I can't believe Summer is almost over! Feels like it went by so fast. I am definitely enjoying my first Summer here in New York City. And I'm so happy that I have had the time off to actually enjoy it. There is so much to do in this City, it amazes me! I will be sharing MY favorites of Summer things to do in NYC, soon!

I recently spent the day in Long Island at Jones Beach with some friends and went fishing off the piers. I haven't been fishing in years! It was so relaxing and just a fun day out on the water. Sometimes escaping the city for even just a day is nice. We all need a break from the hustle here every once in awhile. Can't wait to share the rest of my Summer adventures with you! Stayed tuned for more up on the blog! 

Enjoy your weekend! GO SOAK up the rest of those SUMMER Days! :) 



XO, Rae

Thursday, August 6, 2015

Topics Women Hide From




As women there are subjects that we tend to avoid being honest about. And sometimes try to avoid all together. Maybe it's for fear of being judged or looked at differently. I think it's often not until someone else is honest about their feelings that we then can admit we feel the same way. Why are we so afraid of being honest with our selves and even more so with each other?


Getting pregnant is one of life's little miracles. Many women base their whole entire life on when they will become a mother. And when it does, they are overwhelmed with joy. Well maybe not for some women. Some women although very much wanting to carry a child do not feel it is the best experience. Not all women actually like being pregnant. Yes, there I said it. I have not been pregnant myself but I have watched several friends go through two completely different experiences when it comes to pregnancy. And it's difficult to see the friends who did not have the greatest experience being pregnant feel shameful for feeling that way. Why can't a woman say that she dreads the part of gaining weight, feels like her body is disowning her, never had anything close to a "glow", admits to drinking more than the recommended coffee amounts, desperately wants to drink a glass of wine and has no urge to breastfeed period. Why is it so frowned upon for a women to speak her truth? You don't hear women who have great pregnancies shy away from telling everyone....and I mean everyone! But the moment a pregnant women even starts to say something that sounds like a negative remark about pregnancy, you can just see the looks of other women judging her. 



Getting married is something you dream about ever since you were a little girl. You grow up playing house and even marry off your Barbie and Ken dolls. Then as you get older, you date different guys and endure one too many heartbreaks. You see relationships for what they sometimes really are. Temporary spaces in your life that you can't control. You begin to realize that maybe marriage is not what you want or believe in anymore. But your afraid to even say it out loud much less tell your closest friends and definetly not your mother. After all they are all married or engaged and would probably tell you that your just going through a phase. Or tell you that you've just dated the wrong guys and not to worry your future husband is out there somewhere. But you know deep down if marriage wasn't in the cards for you, you would probably be just fine. But again we feel this guilt for being brutally honest. And for fear of downplaying our friends marriages and relationships, we simply agree that it's just a phase and your probably just being a little bitter. 


Hold your head high and never let them see you sweat. We are trained since an early age to have our life plan mapped out. College, career, marriage and kids. But what about plan B?  Or even better yet, plan C? Did anyone ever tell you what happens when plan A doesn't fall into place? I didn't think so. So why is that? It's almost as if plan A doesn't go accordingly, than somehow we must have failed in our life. And even worse we would have to admit that we failed if we tried to discuss it with someone else. Not everyone fits into plan A and that's okay. Life is often better lived off script. So what, you didn't go to college or even finish. And maybe your in your thirties just now figuring out what you want to do for your career. And maybe being single is your plan for now so you can travel first before getting married and having kids. What's so wrong with that plan? Your life doesn't have to be like everyone else's or even in the same order. But we fear to admit to each other that we like our plan better and that life sometimes tastes better against the grain. 


You should never apologize for how you feel, who you are as a person or where you stand on certain topics. So often we seek approval from others. But being honest in how you feel may likely make others feel relieved. We also seek other women who are just like us. It's much more comforting and inspiring when you have those who are closest to you share in your same feelings. So next time your faced with these topics, be true to YOU. Make no excuses and remember, you may not be alone. 


XO, Rae

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Summer Cocktail Recipe: Mint Watermelon Agua Fresca Margarita









Now that Summer is well under way, it's seems only fitting to be sipping on a cool cocktail. I have the perks of living with two friends who are in the restaurant industry and we are always stirring up new cocktail creations. Since the heat is definitely in full effect here in New York City, we decided to come up with a refreshing drink.

Let's be honest, who doesn't love a good margarita? And watermelon being a Summer favorite, we came up with the perfect recipe. A 'Mint Watermelon Agua Fresca Margarita'. I promise it tastes just as good as it sounds! Agua Fresca meaning a Mexican drink made with pureed fruit, water and sugar. And of course a margarita consists of lime juice and tequila. Add fresh watermelon and be prepared to fall in love this cocktail.


Recipe: {per serving}


  • 2 oz silver tequila       *choose tequila of your preference 
  • 4 oz watermelon agua fresca 
  • 1 oz agave syrup 
  • 2 oz of fresh lime juice
  • 4-5 mint leaves
  • 3-4 ice cubes
  • 1 sliced watermelon wedge to garnish 

*Salt rim can also be added. 



To prepare the agua fresca mixture you will need to begin by slicing a small watermelon into small cubes. Make sure to cut a few wedge slices to use as garnish later. Remove seeds and place cubes of watermelon into a large bowl. Set aside. In a separate bowl begin mixing equal parts of water and agave syrup to essentially make a sugar water. 



Then place watermelon cubes into a food processor slowly adding the sugar water mixture until you have a smooth consistency. In our recipe, we choose to strain the watermelon mixture and use only the juice with the pulp removed. Once you have completed this, place juice in separate container and chill until ready to use. 

Next take a few limes, cut in half and squeeze the juice from the lime into a separate container. This will be your fresh lime juice. Set aside. Then wash the fresh mint and remove the leaves from the stems. 


Now for the final steps...

In a glass, take 4-5 mint leaves and muddle. 
Add 3-4 ice cubes 
Add 2 oz of your preferred tequila. (We used Peligroso Silver)
Add 4 oz of watermelon agua fresca
Add 2 oz  of fresh lime juice
Add 1oz of agave syrup  (for added sweetness)

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker, give a few shakes and pour into your favorite glassware. 

Garnish with a watermelon wedge & you are now ready to sip away the Summer heat! 





Special Thanks to Will & Danny for their help in creating this fabulous cocktail & for being the best friends a girl could ask for!


 XO, Rae