Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Living in London | Life Update

Hello lovely readers! As you are able to tell by the title, some things have changed recently and I am currently living in London!!! (The fact that I am able to say that is still surreal) Now this was not a spur of the moment up and go situation, I am studying here and have been planning this for a long time.

I have always been interested in London and England and thought that I loved it but now having been here for a little while I can say with complete confidence that I LOVE it here! The pace of everything, the fashion, the lifestyle, the fact that there is always something to do, the architecture, and the ever present mixing of past and present times. 

Since being in London, I have visited a few different areas and plan to give them each their own post rather than one massive one. With this experience I want to share how I see London as well as tips for studying abroad in general, and anything else that I get up to. 

Also, with it being my first time here, I am looking for suggestions of places to go, things to see, and places to eat for sure!! So if you are from the area or have visited before, please please please, comment or feel free to send me an email with your tips! So, yes that is my little life update! Stay tuned for more and also, if you don't already, follow me on Instagram @notexactlyplainjane for more daily happenings! Xx

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Red Nose Day

Hello lovely reader! I hope you are enjoying these last few days of May. As I have often said, sharing is caring, whether I'm referring to a recipe, a recent discovery, or where I got my latest favorites. However this can also be used in the sense of giving back, sharing what you have with those around you and across the world who may be less fortunate. Today is the perfect opportunity to do just that seeing as it is "Red Nose Day"! You may have seen advertisements for this all over, and merchandise for it in places such as Walgreens. I know when I was in New York last week, Times Square had a massive ad for the NBC special. So what is this day and why all the red noses? Well simply put on the official website, it is a time "when people across the land can get together and do something funny for money at home, school and work." 

Tonight there is a special on NBC at 9/8c that will feature comedy, music, and entertainment all with the goal of raising money that will go towards making a difference for kids. 

The red noses are the symbol of the event and the organization and can be purchased at Walgreens where the proceeds will go to the Red Nose Day Fund. You can also go to this page and make a donation directly! So help make a difference for kids in the USA and across the world and take part in this fun day! 

I also want to say that this post is completely unsponsored. Helping children is just one of the causes that I am very passionate about and this day is a great opportunity to do so! 

Instagram: @rednosedayusa 

Twitter: @RedNoseDayUSA 

How are you going to participate? Have a lovely day and go "do something funny for money"! Xx

Happy 2016 | A Quick Update

Hello lovely reader! I hope you are having a good start to 2016. Today's post is more of a chatty post one, which I don't do often but in some ways I see this blog as a bit of a journal and a place to share feelings that other bloggers or readers may be able to relate to. Like most people, I have made a few "New Years Resolutions" one of them being to post more when I have the time which I already seem to be failing at. However, another one of them is to be more optimistic, focusing on the positive side of situations, and not stressing out about unnecessary things. I absolutely love blogging but sometimes I'll hit a bit of a wall as far as things to post, it then spirals into worrying because I haven't posted something in a while, and questioning my content and whether or not I should just quick whip something up in order to have a new post, even if the content is not superb, or if I will loose the traction that within in the last few months I have been quickly gaining (Thanks to you!). I then step back and remind myself of why I started blogging and think about how quality over quantity in the blogging world is one of the most important aspects. (It is also one that I very much value and practice day to day) I also realize that the only person creating this pressure is myself and that it's okay to do something else for a little while.

If I wake up in the morning and feel like creating a post, great I'll do it, but if I wake up and would rather bake something and not document it, that's okay too. Sometimes I feel like blogging and social media in general can keep us from being present. We become so wrapped up in "capturing the moment" with a phone that we miss the actual experience. Staying present is another resolution I have for this year, and while I know it will be one of the hardest ones, I think it will be the most rewarding.

I believe that this cycle can be applied to a lot of things in life, questioning yourself, self doubt, and loosing sight of why you began something. Feeling like your fire within has become a tiny match, and wondering where that massive bonfire went. But with a new year comes a fresh start, and the perfect opportunity to start searching for things that fuel that fire once more, taking time and not rushing, doing certain things when it feels right and not feeling like you must force yourself to do something if your heart isn't fully in it. So after all this, may you be optimistic and present in the coming year! I also want to say thank you to everyone who has continued to or started reading "Not Exactly Plain Jane" this past year. The growth within the last few months alone has been amazing and it makes me so excited for what's to come. I have been given some great opportunities and cannot wait to see what 2016 will bring!

Happy New Year! Xx

No FOMO, Live Your Own College Experience | College Life

Hi lovely readers! Today's post is the first of it's kind and hopefully not the last. I want to think of these posts as an open journal all about "college life", both for me and for you. I would love this to be a space where we can share advice and experiences to help each other out, as I am sure that many of us have gone through and are going through many of the same things. "Sharing is caring" and I want to use this platform to do just that.

So the topic I want to talk about today is FOMO otherwise known as the "Fear of Missing Out" in relation to focusing on yourself. This may not make sense so let me explain, I feel like for many college students FOMO is ever present and affects the way they live their lives. People feeling like they have to go to this party or join that club because if they don't they're going to be missing out on something, even if they're not actually interested. If this sounds like something you are experiencing, I would like to encourage you to do one thing, think about if what you are doing is because you want to do it or because it is what everyone else is doing. Within the last year, being on my own for the first time, I have become a lot more self aware. I know what I like, what I don't like, situations I am comfortable with, and situations that I am not. I have realized that it can make a world of a difference if you simply focus on yourself and what makes you happy, what you enjoy and are passionate about, rather than just going along with everyone else. I want you lovely lot to know that putting yourself first and not worrying about what other people are doing is okay! In fact it is more than okay, it is a key to one of the sometimes many locks of your own personal happiness. You are the only person who gets to live your life! So why not make it the happiest and the best it can be? Everyone has a different idea of how one should live out their college experience. But you need to live out your own college experience, not someone else's.

I am not a partier, I go to a school where many people are. I don't have a problem with people who are or aren't, you do you and I'll do me. Does everyone else look at others this way? No, I know some people look at me differently because I don't choose to live my life in the stereotypical "college kid" way. They don't understand it because it is different from their "ideal college adventure". "Aren't you afraid of what your missing?" No, quite frankly I'm not, what you are doing isn't appealing to me and I'm happy with what I am doing. In relation to partying specifically, I will say this, just because other people are going out and partying on a Friday night, and you would rather stay in does not make you "lame", "a loser", or a "goody goody". All those things are other people's perceptions and if that's what they want to think than their opinions aren't worth worrying about and they shouldn't care in the first place because it doesn't rock their world one bit. I don't really have FOMO because I know that I am doing what I want to do, living my life how I want to live it! Yes, it can be hard at times and feeling like an outsider may happen, but just step back and think, "If I could mute everyone else's opinions, am I happy with my life right now? Am I enjoying the things that I am doing?" If so then you're on the right track, living for you.

I wanted to share this because I know it can be hard if what you're into or not into is different from what most people around you are. I have been in school for almost a year and a half, and I have just finally met someone last month who has a lot of the same views on things as I do and it's great! Having someone you feel like you can totally relate to makes you feel so much better and way less isolated. So don't give up hope that you're the "only one", you may happen upon someone who feels the exact same way as you, just when you least expect it. I know it sounds cheesy but it literally just happened to me.

I hope this post was beneficial and I'd love to hear your thoughts. That's what I hope these types of posts can be, a space for relating and sharing. Hopefully if you have struggled with similar situations or are currently, the comments can be a place to share advice and tips. Also, if it's not something you want to put out there, my email is up in the contacts or even if you want to DM me on Twitter, please feel free! It may seem a bit odd and I know I'm no expert, but I'd love to be of any help that I can. Have a great week everyone! Xx

"20 Things I Wish I Knew At Age 20" | Repost

Hello lovely reader! Another Monday, another start to the week. I hope you have a good one, my Monday has started out quite well actually. I'm feeling autumnal, loving my lipstick, and the shuttle played some good throwback tunes this morning as well as "Here". I wanted to share a post that I saw last week on the blog "cupcakes and cashmere". I really connected with it and can definitely relate, and I am sure many of you will be able to, whether you are around this age or past it and looking back. I am going to turn 20 this year, so I too am discovering many of these points to be true. I will link the original post below, as I am a only including the parts I connected to the most, but you should read the post in it's entirety!

2. Your taste will change a lot over your 20s. So buy quality classics over quantity. 

There are some trendier items that I remember lusting after as though my life depended on it. Looking back, I can hardly fathom that I’m the same person who once liked that item, so I’m grateful for every instance in which I didn’t purchase said item. Experimenting with self-expression and trying different trends to see what you like is important for honing your personal style, but try to remember that your taste is going to change a lot in your twenties. Forget clothing hauls, and instead save for select pieces that won’t go out of style. A decade later, you’ll be happier to have a few classic workhorses (such as great black pumps and a versatile trench coat), than a rotating closet full of items you can’t believe you liked at one point. This applies to both fashion and home.

4. Learning to make 2-3 basic dishes will save you a lot of money. 

When you have a few simple dinners mastered, you won’t be nearly as tempted to spend three times as much money on ordering Seamless and going out to restaurants out of hangry desperation.

5. Don’t let FOMO dictate your happiness. 

Life is a marathon and there will always be another party, event, concert, and night out. We all experience FOMO, but when you listen to what your body and instincts are telling you (for example, you’re too tired to go out), you end up much happier. People also respect you more when you don’t live your life based on a fear of missing out, and can confidently say no to an invite knowing that your friends will still like you if you stay in with Netflix—because they will.

6. Girlfriend dates are as important as boyfriend dates. 

When people are courting each other they go on dates that have itineraries—dinner, movies, ice cream; wine tasting followed by picnic in the park. One of the most important things I learned about my adult relationships is how much a friendship can benefit from similar sorts of dates. From a young age, girls start doing things like getting manicures and pedicures and shopping together (which are always fun times). But in addition to the usual suspects, you can suggest grabbing coffee and going to the new museum that just opened up; meeting for a hike followed by mimosas; or picking out new books at the bookstore and taking a walk through a gorgeous neighborhood to discuss your favorite houses. You’ll learn new things about your friend and it makes for great traditions and memories. 

7. Don’t buy “cheap”—or uncomfortable—shoes, no matter how cute they are. 

I’m not saying not to look for sales, but don’t do yourself the disservice of wearing poorly-made shoes. Quality footwear will not only provide more support which is better for your back and body long-term, but you can repair and resole shoes to extend their life so they last for years. There’s also nothing cute about a girl hobbling around in painful shoes like a baby deer.

8. Cherish the lulls in your life—and create them, too. 

Big or small, I’ve learned how important the lulls in life are. I’m the kind of person who can easily feel anxious if I’m not getting something done at all times. But it’s really those periods of repose that fuel my greatest productivity. There are going to be chapters in your life where you’re the busiest you’ve ever been, and there are going to be quieter times that might seem scary at first, but will eventually be what you look back on and wish you’d savored more. Regardless of what’s going on, take at least ten minutes out of your day to do nothing. Meditate, go for a walk, stare at some clouds. Give your mind a moment to process nothing. 

9. Don’t subscribe to age “milestones.” 

Everyone follows a unique timeline, so don’t get caught up in achieving certain goals based on an arbitrary age. The less you worry about when something will happen, it’s likely you’ll learn more from the process of making it happen when it’s right for you. People are going to get engaged, earn promotions, buy houses, have kids, and sometimes these things will happen before you; other times you’ll be the first in your group to do something. So just do you, and be you, because there’s no “right” time to do something except when it feels right to you.

11. Practicing truly active listening will serve all of your relationships. 

Listening is a skill that should be practiced. Most people equate the physical act of sitting silently while someone talks listening, but they aren’t the same. It’s an amazing feeling to truly be heard by someone, and it’s easy to know when someone is paying attention and really taking in what you’re saying. To give someone the gift of listening engenders trust, appreciation, and will help to deepen relationships. Plus, you’ll likely be listened to in return.

16. Remember that uncomfortable feelings are temporary. 

When I first moved to L.A., I didn’t know anyone and felt a bit adrift and out of my element. A very new friend invited me to another friend’s birthday party, and even though it was great to be included, I ended up feeling really sad afterwards. A wise mentor reminded me that what I was feeling was temporary with a capital T. It’s difficult to move to a new place, start a new job, make new friends, etc. It involves growing pains. But feeling out of sorts due to these circumstances is normal, and will pass. It took me a few months to feel like I belonged, but sure enough, when things started to click and I felt more comfortable in my new city and life, I looked back on that memory and realized just how true it was that those feelings had been temporary. 

17. You teach others how you want to be treated through your actions. 

Similar to the boundary lesson, you have to teach others how to respect and treat you by leading by example. Whether in your career, friendships, or romantic relationships, you can’t expect someone to treat you any differently than how your own actions indicate you want to be treated. Remember that actions do speak louder than words when it comes to how others interact with you, so set the bar high and others will follow suit.

Pay attention to what brings you joy, and spend your money there. 

We all have things that bring us genuine joy. For some, it’s getting the newest technology the day it comes out. For others, it’s a blowout once a week, doing hot yoga at a beautiful, well-lit studio, or picking up a fresh lipstick color on the regular. When you do something that leaves you buoyant afterwards, with a lasting feeling of happiness and value added to your life—pay attention to what it is, because your money is best spent there. Life is about choices, from the big to the small. If you could care less about what kind of car you drive, but love trying new restaurants as often as possible, then drive an old car that doesn’t cost much and bask in your restaurant budget. Tune out the noise and pay attention to your preferences. It’s your life, your happiness, and your money—so spend it based on what brings value to you, not what others place value on.  

"20 Things I Wish I Knew At Age 20"

So what do you think? Any of these stick out to you? Anything you would add? Xx

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Last night my dad gave me a book and as I was flipping through it, I opened to this page and instantly saw this quote. It was such a strange yet powerful feeling because it is so accurate to how I have been feeling, and definitely something I needed to see. It's amazing how we stumble upon things just when we need them. Xx

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Autumn Bucket List 2014

Hiya lovely reader! Happy October! Autumn is about to be in full swing and I am so ready! Fall is one of my favorite times of year. I love the fashion and how pretty all the trees look!

I saw a post on Free People's blog where they made a bucket list of things to do this fall so I thought I'd do one myself!  

Do you have a fall bucket list? If so feel free to leave a link in the description, I'd love to read it! Xx

Cheeky Quote Tuesday

Love this, something to keep in mind for sure, source

14 RANDOM QUESTION TAG: GET TO KNOW ME!

Hey lovely reader! As you can see today's post is a fun tag, full of random questions. I originally saw the tag on Queen of Jet Lags so be sure to check hers out too! 

1. If you could change your name to anything, what would it be and why?

This is an interesting question. I can honestly say I'm quite happy with my name. Fun Fact: I was almost named Nicole. My two favorite names though are Audrey and Eleanor. 

2. If you could go back in time and give your younger self advice, what would it be and why?

That things will work out and to trust your gut. Also don't be afraid to be yourself. Basically everything mentioned in "Little Me", those lyrics are perfect for a question like this. 

3. What did you want to be when you were little?

An actress, a singer, a model, a fashion designer...many things!

4. What do you order at Starbucks?

Nothing...gasp...sorry I'm not obsessed with Starbucks. I do like their hot chocolate during the wintertime, other than that I just drink water.

5. What’s the hardest you ever laughed?

This question definitely causes reminiscing. Two of my best friends always make me laugh, but the things we laugh about probably wouldn't sound funny to anyone else and some of the stories aren't things they'd want me sharing on the internet I'm sure:) My dad is also good for a laugh. 

6. If you could play any instrument, which would it be and why?

Guitar! I used to play the flute but I love the acoustic guitar. I think it can show so many different feelings based on how it's played, whether it's a soft tune or a fast strum. I also wish I could play because then you could take it with you anywhere and just chill and have a little sing-song. 

7. What’s your favorite thing to do when your upset?

Listen to music or watch some of my favorited videos on Youtube. 

8. What’s your favorite movie?

Depends on the genre. My favorite classic would have to be "Funny Face" starring Audrey Hepburn. I love the Harry Potter series too. Great Gatsby is probably the best movie I've seen lately. I also love concert DVDs. 

9. What’s one food you can not live without?

Ok this one is hard because I am a foodie for sure. If we're being general maybe cheese because it's in a lot of my favorite dishes. 

10. What’s your favorite dessert?

Triple Chocolate cake made by my mom! Chocolate cake with chocolate chips in it and chocolate frosting, it melts in your mouth!

11. Favorite pizza topping?

Wow tough question! I love many types of pizzas, margarita, deluxe, sicilian, mediterranean, the list goes on. So for today let's say, sun dried tomatoes. 

12. Would you rather have the superpower to read minds, or the superpower to be invisible?

As much as I'd want to know what people are thinking it's probably better for everyone to not. So let's go with being invisible. 

13. What did you do for your last birthday?

I had lunch and went shopping with my bestie. 

14. If you had one personal “selfish” wish, what would it be and why?

To be extremely successful and as cheesy as it sounds, live the life I dream about. 

If you do this tag I'd love to read it, so feel free to leave a link in the comments! Xx

The post 14 RANDOM QUESTION TAG: GET TO KNOW ME! appeared first on Queen of Jet Lags.