Prisoner of Words

>> 5.10.2009

I was watching random YouTube videos the other day and came across this amazing poem by Alicia Keys. I can relate to her words because I used to be one of those people who didn't speak up. I realized that you only hurt yourself when you stifle your thoughts. If you can relate, remember this quote:

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." - Dr. Seuss

Check out the video. 


What words have you left unsaid?

Stay True.

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So I Graduated... Now What?

>> 5.07.2009


The Graduation Blues - a phenomenon I know all too well. After all of the quarter-life crises, Mariah moments and other meltdowns about my future, I think it's safe to say that I am an expert. 

The Graduation Blues has several phases, which I'm sure most grads can relate to.

First, you have the realization that graduation is coming sooner than you thought, otherwise known as the "OMG, let me party all I can before it all has to stop!" epiphany. I can relate to this because I think I partied more than I ever did throughout my entire college career during my last few weeks of school. I realized, yeah, it was fun, but I was way too old for the scene. I just wanted to make sure that I went out with a bang and wore all the clothes I had never worn due to my past bookworm ways. This partying phase comes on as an attempt to hide from the fact that now, you have to figure out what comes next in your life.

Next, you start to reflect and think, "Did I choose the right major?" I remember those Kanye lyrics from "All Falls Down" going through my head - "The major that she major in don't make no money, but she can't drop out - her parents will look at her funny." I never questioned my choice of major and I definitely never considered dropping out, but these times will make you question everything. Don't fall victim to it. Stay confident in your choices.

Then, you graduate. The family comes to see you. With the family, comes the questions - what are you doing now? In fact, as I write this, my grandmother is asking me if I'm really going to grad school and that she heard on the news that I won't get a job without it.

Insert Mariah moment here.

Between answering the questions with more and more ridiculous things (my answer is now, "I'm going to NYC on a one-way ticket to seek my fortune") and actually contemplating them, you really have to sit and figure out what you're going to do. The hardest part is actually doing it.

My advice to the world is to stop wallowing. I am trying to take my own advice as I am currently wallowing in a "swine flu"-induced stupor. It's hard, I know, but we - the class of 2009 will prevail. 

Anyway, this will be a series of posts in which you will get advice on professional development and becoming the best you during your down time.

In the meanwhile, remember that sometimes, plans don't work out and the best things happen when you let God surprise you. Just take advantage of every opportunity you get and don't be afraid to fail.

Stay True.

-Aly

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Michael Kors Watches are Fly!

>> 5.06.2009


There is nothing that trumps the power of a nice, classic watch when it comes to creating your image. This is the reason why people spend thousands on creations by Audemars Piguet, Cartier and Rolex.


However, most of us can't afford to break the bank for those timepieces (yet), so I think Michael Kors has some of the most beautiful watches for those on a limited budget but want a step above a Fossil.

This oversized, men's style watch is on my wishlist for sure! I'm just waiting for the next sale at Macy's so the $195 price tag can be lowered.

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New Music Tuesday: A Brilliant Epiphany

>> 5.05.2009


Chrisette Michele's second album is going to be a girl's best friend this summer. It's title track is an empowering ode to ditching your mediocre boyfriend with a classic lyric - "I think I'm just about over being your girlfriend." Once I heard this song, I knew this CD was going to be a good one!


It's not all about man-hating though! The CD is full of romantic, jazzy songs such as "Notebook" and "All I Ever Think About is You" that we can all relate to. Throughout the whole CD, Chrisette Michele is truly unique with her music and vocal arrangements. To me, there is nobody out there quite like her today. She reminds me of a modern day Ella Fitzgerald, which is a major compliment. 


I think Epiphany is so much better than her first album, with songs that you can jam to in your car, listen to when you're sitting up in your room thinking about that one special person, sing along to with the girls and get ready for the club to. I suggest that you give it a listen and buy it on iTunes or on Amazon MP3 for $2.99 all week.

Epiphany gets the Truly Beautiful Stamp of Approval.

Check it out on IMEEM:


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Hit or Miss?: Ciara's Two-Tone Hairdo(n't)

>> 4.21.2009

I know that celebs have a lot of license with what they do with their hair. They can usually get away with styles that regular, non entertainer 'gals like you and me probably couldn't. Yet, is there a line that is past the point of ugly? I think Ciara's latest hairstyle has crossed the ugly line for sure. What do you think? Would you do this to your hair?


Let us know what you think. 



As always, stay Truly Beautiful!

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Concert Season: Lupe Fiasco featuring Drake


I'm sitting here at my school's student union, still wired from my 5 Hour Energy drink, but also hyped up for the Lupe Fiasco concert tomorrow! I really love his music. He is just so different from any other hip hop artist out there right now. I can't even think of a classification for his rhymes. I just know I love them.

Also, he is bringing along the new rap sensation Drake, also known as the kid in the wheelchair on Degrassi. I never had Noggin growing up (only basic cable over here...) so I didn't know about his past as a child actor. I just know that I love his flow and he can sing too! Personally, I think he's a cutie and I wouldn't mind getting his autograph tomorrow. 

Check out some of my fave songs from Lupe and Drake... get your lyrics game up so you can sing along!


unstoppable remix - drake ft lil wayne & santogold


Paris, Tokyo - Lupe Fiasco

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The Perfect Low-Maintenance Nail Polish by Essie


Irony! Tell me why, the most perfect, low-maintenance shade of sheer pink nail polish by Essie is called... get this... Hi-Maintenance. I just thought that was funny. Anyway, I don't know about you, but I hate getting bright colors on my fingernails only to have them chip in a few days. Because of this, sometimes I just opt for a clear shade. However, sometimes you want to feel a bit more fancy. If you can relate, this shade is for you.

It goes on quickly and flawlessly with two thin coats and makes you look like you just came from the nail salon.

This polish gets the Truly Beautiful stamp of approval! Make sure to try it. You'll thank me later.

Stay Truly Beautiful!

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