Diary of a Mad College Grad

Entry 1.

This day marks the first weekday after gradation. Ive officially crossed over from a graduating senior to an unemployed alumni; But I am not alone! I'm applying all over the place and open to moving wherever I land a job, outside of North and South Dakota. Anxiety has yet to set in, and hopefully it wont get a chance to. Regardless of what happens, I want you guys to take this journey with me.

BTW: I had a GREAT graduation. Couldn't as for a better support system. Here are some of the highlights!

Beauty Tip of The Week

From time to time we all suffer from unsightly blemishes. Marie Claire gives a 7 step guide to covering those blemishes until they go away on their own!

http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/fashionista-blog/hide-pimples-video

Dessert or Disaster

Girls: We come in all shapes, colors, and sizes…. and we all come with flaws. We’re a little needy. Can be a little clingy. We can be jealous, indecisive, and totally confusing. These are traits we may never admit to having. We may never even think they exist within us, and they may not... Until one day, you meet someone that turns your world upside down, and you realize that everything you experience before, with the guys in your past, is nothing compared to what your in store for.
Your emotions are no longer your own.
Your mood for the day is dictated by his.
Every song on the radio is about him, every beautiful quote reminds you of him,
and the sky that you’ve always known was blue is now purple, or green, or any other color that he says it is.
WHOA..sounds like a bit much right? And it probably shouldn’t be this way. But whether you like to admit it or not, it’s the truth… and that is only the beginning.

Building a relationship, it can be a beautiful thing. But it can also be one of the most frustrating things if the two are not on the same page. Two different pages, two different sets of expectations, only equals two people who probably won’t end up together. Not because they aren’t completely compatible, or maybe even perfect for one another, but nothing can last without full cooperation from both parties. Love…its powerful, but as powerful as it is..its not enough for a relationship to work. Despite what you may have learned from the movies and songs.. that love conquers all, it takes a little more. Don’t get me wrong, it’s the foundations that can build something great, but love along with effort and understanding can not only build something great, but it will build something that will never be crumbled at times of adversity.

So..Put in a little effort, put yourself out there. It can be hard, but everything worth having is worth fighting for, and there is nothing worse than wishing you had said something, or done something differently when it’s no longer possible.

And one more thing… SN: Acouple of wise guys recently schooled me. I couldn’t seem to understand why guys would always claim they liked you so much, and wanted to be with you, but showed no signs, other than words, that they were ready for a relationship. The guys told me that it is very possible for one to find the right one at the wrong time. Its happens almost daily, a guy may meet a girl that has everything he may be looking for, but at that time its not enough to get him to settle down, not with her only. But like everything else eventually that too will get old to him and he will search for you again. So let him go ladies, let him fly away, because and old saying tells us that if he comes back it was meant to be. And I believe it.

Healthfood Junkie

The economy is bad; the funds are low… and it so easy to grab something quick, fast and cheap to eat. I know, because I do it often. But, its time to get it together. We most often relate eating unhealthy with weight, either loosing or gaining, BUT, in actuality eating unhealthy has a domino effect on the rest of your body including your hair, nails, and skin. The Everyday girl loves nice hair, healthy nails, and clear skin, so let’s find some substitutes for out unhealthy eating habits.

For those who have that milkshake addiction… please…step into the world of SMOOTHIES!! Less calories, less sugar, an all together better choice. You could run over to Tropical Smoothie
every time you need a smoothie fix OR you can concoct one right in your own kitchen. Here’s how..

Ingredients:
1 Banana
6 Strawberries
1 Kiwi
½ cup vanilla frozen yogurt
¾ cup pineapple and orange juice blend
(If you dislike any of the above fruit substitute it with a fruit of your choice)

Directions: Put all ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth.
Now how easy is that!


Who doesn’t love a chocolate nut sundae!!
Chocolate syrup swirled through out vanilla ice cream. Piled high with nuts, and topped with whipped cream and cherries!!
OOOOk..so every girl should treat herself to one of these every now and again, BUT sometimes, try substituting that sundae with another frozen treat that you may find just as good. How about a little frozen yogurt?
I know of a yummy frozen yogurt spot on Broad St.

Very Berry! It also happens to have the cutest little set up I’ve ever seen on this campus…or any other. Check it out! Support local businesses! Pretty Please with a cherry on top.

Coffee every morning… looks great in the movies, and some of us actually pull it off in real life. How unhealthy is a daily dose of expresso? The world may never know. Coffee at its root probably isn’t really that bad, but by the time we finish filling it with sugar, adding a lil whip, cream and caramel here and there, it's nothing but a sugar attack waiting to happen. So.. to be on the safe side grab a glass of Simply Orange,

or some juice full of vitamin C..It’s great for you. Plus, grabbing Starbucks every morning can be hard on a everyday girl's purse.

I do understand, a girl needs that coffee every now and then, but guess what, that Caffe Mocha that you crave can be made can be made at home. Here’s how

Ingredients:
2 c. non-dairy creamer1 1/3 c. sugar1 1/2 c. dry milk1 c. instant coffee1/3 c. cocoa1 level tsp. cinnamon1/2 tsp. nutmeg

Directions:
Mix well. Add 2 or 3 teaspoons to 1 cup boiling water

It’s not that hard ladies. Healthy body = Healthy minds so in the words of Diddy “LETS GO”!!

Back To Basics

We all know about the specific characteristics that make us women. From the estrogen to the curves, we all exude femininity, yet no one girl is cut from the same cloth. As a matter of fact, most girls are cut from an entirely different fabric. There are certain values, beliefs, and habits that only some girls classify as priority. Some things should just never go undone, and sometimes these forgotten steps hold you back. Cater to yourself underneath all the clothes and make-up. The love of high end fashion and pink flowers may not run through the blood of every female, but the passion for sweet scents and moisturized skin should be on the top of every lady’s list.


Hair: Ok, so we are in college, and this can be the toughest time to find a beautician that you trust and can afford. But, don’t take out these problems on your tresses! Never bypass a good conditioner; it’s worth the few extra dollars. Leave-in, light weight conditioner compliments an exfoliating shampoo quite nicely, and your guy (or any guy) will love the gentle smell of your freshly washed hair. Also, too much blow drying and flat ironing can lead to unhealthy hair and force you to chop/screw it up like Rihanna just to save face. Generally, allow yourself a bi-weekly opportunity to put any heat on your hair. You can upkeep your look, and avoid breakage, throughout the week by pin curling, or wrapping your hair EVERY night. It’s not worth the fight in the morning ladies!

Nails: So just when you think the job is yours, you reach out to shake the interviewer’s hand, when you realize you’re in desperate need of a manicure! The powerful handshake that would have sealed the deal is quickly replaced with a fist pound. To avoid this kind of damage, it is important to treat your nails as often as you do your skin. Keep your hands moisturized during the day; most times soaps and hard work can leave our hands looking dry and feeling rough. This is also good for your cuticles. If it’s not in the budget to go to the nearest nail shop every two weeks, re-invent the salon treatment at home, and don’t leave out your feet. Soak in hot water, file, clip, polish, and lotion. Easy as pie!

Undergarments: Keep your goodies tucked away girls, but do it in style. Matching under sets can be hard to come by, but they serve a good purpose. Knowing that each separate piece has a match avoids the struggle of trying to find two options in the morning. Plus, the little touch of class and flair will give you an extra pep in your step that nobody has to know about.

Quick Tips: Moisturize your lips, Take care of small injuries to be sure they don’t become scares for life, Spritz a little perfume right out of the shower for premium pore intake, and Lotion daily (yes, even when you wont be showing any skin).

*If all else fails, at least be sure to throw on a little lipstick.

Word to the Wise..and the Not so wise.

It takes a stronger man to lose a battle than it does 2 slay a dragon. When the heat is turned up, and his pride is in the way of his heart, a dragon slayer will take on war, resorting to tactics of the weak 2 emerge victorious. Fighting dirty may win the match, but playing fair will win the game. However, a wise man will choose his weapons wisely..he will bite his tongue when it forms itself 2 spit venom and suppress his child like desire 2 go “tit for tat” against every tease and taunt. And just when it appears that he's losing, the dragon will fall flat, and admit his defeat. Now, let's just call this dragon "woman". Where is this strong man who will never stoop so low as to take on war with the woman he loves? Phenomenal women arise each day and keep their vision clear of the small flames and seek only 2 extinguish wild fires. One of my favorite sayings advises us 2 pick our battles. One should never waste their time with tiny little tiffs about who drunk the last swig of apple juice and instead save their energy to tackle the demons at their doorstep. Why ruin a lovely day with the person you love just to argue over what took her so long to get ready? One thing about an everyday girl is that she manages 2 see beyond the petty disputes when she has given her "he" her heart. She's the kind of girl who says what she means, not to hurt or degrade, instead she speaks with calm tone and gentle heart. When he sleeps in late and misses the first half of the weekend she had planned, she takes it easy on him, and uses the free time to do some spring cleaning instead. Brothers need 2 step up and follow suit! If she requests your affection during a stressful exam week, just comply, don’t waste your time complaining about how needy she can be at times. A better time to mention this flaw in her is when she begs you to come over at 3am to kill the spider under her bed. When she tells you her phone was in her purse and that explains the missed calls, or that the guy she ran into at the movies is JUST A FRIEND, let it go. But if it ever bothers you too much, tuck away the experience outside of your heart; if the battles begin to form a war, then and only then should you release. Build your knowledge.. think before you leap. Stepping to her about every little situation that arises will only lessen the final impact. Formulate a case and a plan before you point any fingers. Sometimes, you’ll realize your suspicions were without merit. Just a tip for the fellas..Save the drama until the well runs deep, besides, if she's a woman thru and thru, you'll never be able to prove her wrong anyways.

The Resurrection of Chivalry by Stefa'nie Aris

“Life is complicated, love is simple,” says Trevor Pierce, lead-actor on ABC’s new hit show, Cupid.
Men should still court women! Men should not be afraid to voice how they feel about a woman because he feels like less of a man because he is showing vulnerability. Where did chivalry go?
I can preach all day about how men should treat us like we are in a fairytale, but truth be told, WE ARE letting them get away with treating us in the opposite way!
In life, women make decisions about who they want to date and why. However, lately women have been settling for less than what they deserve. We are starting to let men get away with giving and treating us like the “norm”.


WE don’t mind if men don’t open the doors for us anymore!
WE don’t mind if men just want to “chill” with us instead of asking us on a REAL date!
WE are letting men “talk” to us for longer than three months without making a commitment to us!
WE are ALLOWING men to get away with these things!

THIS IS WRONG ON SO MANY LEVELS!

Just like Steve Harvey said, we have to start setting standards and requirements for men or they will not take us seriously! If he cannot handle our standards than he is not the one for us!
Face it, LADIES! (And I use the term LADIES, loosely!) We deserve so much better! However, if we don’t show that we deserve better and carry ourselves like we deserve better than we won’t receive better! Have class! Make yourself number one! And don’t fall for the bs! Let’s began to have a no bs theory when it comes to men and ourselves!
<3 Stef!

Milk, Eggs, Bread, and Makeup??

How long have you had that perfect shade of eye shadow? You know, that metallic gold that tickles your fancy; the reason behind that extra gleam in your eyes on the starry nights. What if I told you that very same shadow you’ve been harboring since high school {and the matching lipstick} is potentially hazardous to your health? Raises a few eyebrows, but I can prove it. Check out this article written in Marie Claire Magazine warning women about expired makeup:

Click Here

Digital Travesty

It’s important to capture life’s most precious moments on film. Tuck away the memories for the rainy cleaning days when you uncover an old image that forces your mind to replay the captured point in time, good or bad. Isn’t that the beauty in growing old? The ability to grow from your past..the joy in seeing that change play out. Ever since Facebook and Myspace, the hard copy photos, with reels and reels of negatives, have slowly diminished. We often try so hard to capture a new “profile pic” we forget to capture the realness of it all. There are never pictures of the late nights with the girls, not when the make-up is off, and you’re all piled up in a room pretending you can sing like Beyonce. What happened to disposables? The days of waiting 6 months after you’ve used up the 27 exposures, finally taking the trip to the one hour photo spot..then spending the rest of the day laughing and reminiscing. These days, we snap a shot, review, delete, and retry. Remember when there were no do-overs? After the flashing light, the moment was frozen behind the camera; red-eyes, glared lens and all. The random days, with the most cray faces show you inner beauty. Take a lesson from our parents, who often bring out the boxes and scrapbooks filled with afro puffs, psychedelic dresses, and platform shoes; but no matter how embarrassed they are today, the past brings only smiles. Who wants to wake up at age forty, to find a photo album full of glamour shots and second takes? No life is lived without scrapes and bruises..so show your war wounds.

BOOKS OR BOYS? How About Both

Spring semester is winding down fast. We are half way through!!
You know what that means. Time to hit the books hard,
But with the winter leaving, and the spring coming in,
days are getting longer, and nights of studying all night

are becoming shorter
or non existent.
Flowers aren’t the only things that bloom during the spring
Relationships do also…So I’ve heard.
So on that warm night, when there is so much more to do than your school work
And he wants nothing more than the company of you
What will you choose to cuddle up with… books or boys?

How can you get your work done, while not neglecting your guy?
Sounds hard, but I’ve see it done.

*Try studying together, this works out good for those couples who both attend the same college. It is possible that you may definitely serve as a distraction to one another, so stay out of your room…try the library.

*If you’re sure you’re the type of girl who can and will NOT productively get work done with “him” around, than make sure you set aside time just for you and your books, and he is not allowed. It sounds bad, but a few hours away from him is better than the alternative…failing!

*If your one of those girls who stays on the phone with your guy all day (and don’t be fooled, texting can be just as distracting as talking). Set aside some quiet time. Make sure he understands when it is, and what it means. If you take it seriously, he will too.

*He’s planned a weekend get away just for you two and you have a big paper due the day after you expect to return. You’ve known about the paper and the trip for weeks. DON’T WAIT TILL THE LAST MINUTE. Work on your paper throughout the week prior to your trip and the papers due date. Its human nature to put off till tomorrow what we could do today, but this is not acceptable, nor will it work. You will rush your paper the night of, it may suck, and you may fail it. Just don’t do it. You don’t have to choose between the trip and the grade. If this is done correctly, you can enjoy both your romantic get-away..and possibly and “A”.

We are all very aware of how convincing some guys are and how distracting relationships (especially new relationships) can be… So, at times you may have to put your foot down, or maybe even pull out your little jar of self-discipline, but please note: if you’ve found the guy…the right guy… he will want you to succeed and managing books and boys wont be a problem!