Wearing: J.O.A Top | F21 Pants | Nasty Gal Shoes
I've been too busy lately to focus on writing. Part of that busy schedule included a fun getaway to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Guys - as I've said before "busy" should also include something you want to do. Block out everything else and plan something for yourself. My little trip was full of colorful walls, amazing company, polka dots and flowy dresses.
Vegas has its reputation and for the longest time I really thought I'd hate it. I had studied Robert Venturi's architectural analysis of Las Vegas, but never visited, and I didn't plan to. But that's no way to think, so I gave Vegas a shot and I actually ended up enjoying my time.
Unlike most itineraries on my site, this post is a one-day activity. If you happen to be near Orlando or you live in Miami, Gainesville, etc. and need a spontaneous day trip with friends — Devil's Den is a must-see hidden treasure. It's right smack in the middle of nowhere (no offense to Williston, FL)— you really need to go there on purpose, you're not likely to pass it on the way going somewhere.
Devil’s Den is also called a karst window, a phenomenon that happens naturally when a roof covering an underground river collapses, exposing the waters underneath to the open. A strange name honestly, but Devil's Den gets its name from the steam that would rise from the den on cool winter mornings. The temperature of the water remains around 72 degrees all year round, making for great steamy displays in the cooler months. Oddly enough I was still cold when I jumped in, but you get used to it and the views from the water are well worth it! The sunnier the better, you'll understand what I mean because photos don't do this place justice. The way the water glistens as its hit by sunlight through the top of the cave is phenomenal.
...like you would Queen Bey.
I have been rattling my brain with writer's block all week. Writing is still very new, but it's been 3 months so there's an accomplishment. I may not have a Bey-army, but I have the most amazing group of people in my life who share comments, repost, and show support. But my biggest all-time fan was always my mom. And I think the reason I haven't been able to write is because, I haven't been able to tell her anything. My mom was THE person I called for my (sometimes silly) accomplishments. Like when I got my curtains on sale or finished reading my latest book; she cheered for me no matter what. It wasn't about validation or approval, it was simply telling my mom made it feel real. No matter how strange or small it was, it was an accomplishment, but only she could make it feel important and real. Knowing my mom she'd say "if you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect anyone else to believe in you?" That is something I need to learn, and I don't think I'll ever stop learning from her. I am my mother's daughter, when I celebrate myself, she celebrates with me.
We all need to learn to take the time to reflect and give ourselves credit where it is due. Even if it is for something small. Whether it is going to the gym for a week straight. Something random like starting a YouTube channel (I see you Youssef Twins), or finding curtains at an amazing price, you are accomplishing something! Not everyone may see it, but as long as you’re giving yourself credit, it won't matter. It is always important to celebrate your accomplishments aka: fangirl yourself.
I am an impatient perfectionist, God bless my family for putting up with it, but I know I'm not the only one. Truth is, if success could be achieved overnight, we would all be rich and famous (or at least employed at our dream jobs). You may not like where you are right now in life, but you need to trust the process and know that your time is coming. In the meantime, enjoy the journey and feel proud of everything you have accomplished so far.
