Sunday, October 27, 2013

There's always Disneyland

I'd always thought that by the time I had (almost) graduated college I would have had my life at least a little bit together. Not even close. 





At least I have a sense of humor. Unfortunately I'm the only one who thinks I'm funny. But I spend a lot of time with myself so I suppose it works out. I have a really sarcastic sense of humor and am totally fine with making fun of myself, I am not having a complex.

I guess it's just easy to look at other people's life and feel as though they've got it all figured out and you're the only one who has no idea what's going on. You slept through half the movie, and now its almost over and you're completely lost. Sucks to suck.

It's a bit frightening to not have a "what's next" plan. Okay, I'm going to get a job and probably move back home...and then what? Honestly that isn't much different than what I've been doing the last few years. I was pretty sure that the next stage of my life was going to be getting married and being a mama. However, that would take a miracle. It's nice to almost be at that feeling of accomplishment with a degree...but in reality it's just a bazillion hours of your life spent on obtaining a $20,000 piece of paper. 

It's been hard to trust God in all of this. I feel as though my life is going to be on a never ending cycle and this season will last forever. I know and believe that isn't true. And I am a huge advocate of the saying "feeling are not truth". And I'm a big feelings person if you haven't noticed. It's kind of ridiculous. That being said, I've felt His presence so strongly the last few days, like His hand is resting on my heart. It's the most beautiful thing. A true peace.

I wish I could claim that by the end of writing this, I feel completely different about my life. Now, I'm not saying I'm not optimistic about my future. I don't believe it's possible for me to not be optimistic about some aspect of life. Honestly, I love my life and the people in it. I suppose I just feel awkward. This isn't how I thought it was going to be.

So while the plan I had in my head since high school won't become a reality right now, I'm really happy that I have so much to look forward to right now. For example, Disneyland. There's always Disneyland. <3 

I heard a quote yesterday...it was actually from a guy's vows to his wife. He said, "I vow to never stop being silly, mainly because I don't think I can". 

Not where I thought I'd be, but I like the person I am becoming. 

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Hopeless Romantic


TV Show: How I Met Your Mother. Can we talk about how amazing season 8 and 9 have been? Yeah, I've been basket case (as usual) in a good way. They are doing an incredible job wrapping this season up with Ted's search for his Mrs. and just dang personality is hitting way to close to home.

Moment: I have several. Turing in my TWS (kind of like my dissertation for teachers). 

Having a wonderful conversation with my room mate. We were talking about a boy who currently has a girlfriend that I used to have to a thing with. I was describing how I feel around him to her and I realized those words have never come out of my mouth before. I  completely trust him, don't feel like I need to change myself in any way, or not measure up to his insane standards like it has been with past guys. He completely believes in me to be a great person, a great teacher, and inspires me to be my best. I know that doesn't sound like a big deal, but it rocked my world. It sucks that I figured this out now, but I left the conversation so happy because I know that regardless of who I end up with it'll be like that. And that is a crazy wonderful thing. I remember telling my best friend that I couldn't even imagine being in love, falling in love, because all I knew was pain. All I know is assholes. And while I'm not remotely in love, it was big moment to hear myself describe that person that way. And remembering the way he looked at me. <3 It gives me hope and makes me happy. I hope that makes a bit of sense!

Beauty tip: taking make up off with olive oil. I'd heard it before, and thought it was stupid but then reheard it on a beauty video and tried it. It really works! I've also been using it as a moisturizer at night because I didn't feel like purchasing another lotion that didn't contain spf. I feel my eyelashes are in great shape because of it. 


Linking up with the cutest mama to be Katie Did What

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Even so...(some things I'm loving)


Isn't that picture so calming? I live in the middle of nowhere. Well (by my definition as a city girl) and I took this while driving (BAD idea, DON'T do it!). I added the lyrics this week and it just makes me happy. So, it's a favorite.

Moment: Finding out I passed my Texas teacher certification test! Wohoo! One step closer :)

Food: I've always had a love affair with almonds. It's almost an addiction. If it has almonds in it, especially if its an ice cream. But anyways, lately I've been eating a serving of almonds mixed with a few dark chocolate chips. It's delish. And it's perfect because I'm kinda headache prone and when I eat this, I feel a lot better. I may or may not be eating it at this very moment.

Thankful for: Amazing teachers. I am currently in student teaching and have had my fair share of professors. I emailed my professor from last year freaking out because I was doing my TWS (teacher work sample...kind of like a dissertation for teachers) wrong and I didn't know how to fix it. She gave me her number, and we talked. She helped me figure out how to fix it. And it meant a lot to me.

TV show: Once Upon a Time and Say Yes to the Dress. Just love them both. Happy shows :)

What are your favorites this week? And don't forget to follow so you don't miss a post! It would make me extra happy.

Linking up with Katie Did What





Saturday, August 31, 2013

Graduation, Zumba, and Grapes (Some Things I'm Loving)


Song: Um, this is awkward. No song, just STILL listening to HP #7. You'd think as often as I drive, I'd be done by now. 

Moment: I have two but technically they're related. I PASSED MY PPR (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities, basically, a teacher test...and I studied for the wrong test!)...and... I APPLIED TO GRADUATE COLLEGE. December 2013, baby!

Clothing: all of it, none of it. Remember my minimalist comment from the previous post? It's officially in high gear. Thanks to this blog. Now, I will not be following "the challenge" but I do like the idea of not having a lot, or over abundance of clothes but strictly having a wardrobe that goes with your lifestyle. For me, its teacher/ slightly professional looking outfits. Hello, project!

Food: Champagne grapes. They're so precious. And cute. So obviously, fun to eat. 

TV Show: Criminal Minds. Enough said.

Workout: Zumba!! SO. MUCH. FUN. My friend and I are taking it at a local intermediate school. Only $2 a lesson! It's twice a week and we sweat. A lot. I think I'm going to try a step class out this week too. 

You're probably wondering about that little dog in my picture above. His name is Maxwell. We're good friends. He's a Pomeranian. Or as I like to call it, a dog that looks like a cat. He also acts like a cat. Anyways.

Linked up with Katie Did What

Thursday, August 15, 2013

20 things





I'm not really a selfie taker. Mostly because I feel like an idiot whenever I do it. I mean, I know what I look like, so its fine. But my mom made me this skirt (and 7 others just like it in different fabrics!!!) so I naturally posted this pic on instagram.

Speaking of instagram, I've seen this tag going around where you posted 20 random things about yourself, and I thought that might be a fun to introduce myself a little more :) 


  1. I hate cherry flavoring, yuckkk! But the fruit is yummy.
  2. I'm usually trying to eat healthy/ on a diet, and failing miserably because diets make me sad. But I still feel like I should lose the weight I gained in college, about 15lbs. I don't want to talk about it.
  3. My self esteem is all over the place. Sometimes, I feel awesome. Other times, I want to hide in a closet forever. Usually because I feel fat. And these emotions usually occur within five minutes of each other. 
  4. I'm constantly thinking about how I can become a better person. Even in little things, like the way I cut meat. 
  5. I also try to look at situations (even stupid ones) from every possible point of view and try to make a decision that will upset the least amount people.
  6. I am a people pleaser. (See above).
  7. I have a fairly sarcastic sense of humor.
  8. I really like the muppets. 
  9. I have minimalist tendencies. Not hard core ones, though. But, I go through my closet probably every month or so and get rid of things I don't wear. I hate the idea of excess. I'm not saying I don't like having nice things, I just can't stand the thought of having 87 purses that look similar. I don't want to have more clothes than it is possible for me to wear. I just don't understand the point. If I'm not continuously using something, I want to get rid of it. But, I want everything that I do have, to be something I love. And side note, I only apply these principles to myself. It doesn't bother me if other people have a ton of clothes, or anything like that.I actually don't even notice. But, I could never own 53 pairs of underwear. There's only one of me. I can only wear one pair of underwear at a time. There are 7 days in a week. I do my laundry every 2 weeks. Therefore, I need about 14-18 pairs of underwear. That's it. But they better be super cute. 
  10. I'm long winded. (see above). But seriously, I cannot stand knick knacks. Again, see above. I have friends who have walked into my room and told me its practically empty. (Side note: I put up pictures on my wall! It doesn't look as empty anymore!)
  11. I'm addicted to chocolate chip cookies from chickfila. Try one. You'll be addicted too. 
  12. Speaking of addictions, one word: pinterest. Follow me. It'll be fun.
  13. I am an incredibly nervous and high stress person. But secretly. In fact, I didn't even realize it until recently. I get nervous about stupid little things. My thoughts get faster, and I have to really think about it to calm myself down. However, you would not know that from just observing me. I hide it very well, most of the time.
  14. I am not a very touchy person, unfortunately. I am kind of trying to get over it. But I'm not trying all that hard. 
  15. I love fashion, but whenever I go shopping, I suddenly have no idea what I am doing.
  16. I have a bizillion things I'd like to become awesome at: photography, yoga, painting, longboarding, cosmetology. 
  17. I LOVE makeup. The minimalist in me is having a really hard time with how much makeup I own. I see a purge in my future.
  18. I love Jesus.
  19. I seriously wish everything in my purse was the cutest thing you've ever seen in your life. But sadly, I'm not quite there yet. Someday.
  20. I really love my life. 
And there you have it, twenty facts about yours truly. Now it's your turn. Tell me everything! Or at least a few, in the comments below and don't forget to follow this blog! :)

Love, 

Maria

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Counting Stars (some things I'm loving)





Color: Ok, I realize this is a bit strange. But lately, I've been really into the color purple. I also think that's a movie. But seriously, I am currently wearing a purple shirt and its the only thing that is purple in my closet. This needs to change, stat. I've also been obsessed with maroon. I have acted on that though. I have a super cute sweater, that I will probably only be able to wear for two months. Thank you Texas.

Song: Counting Stars by OneRepublic. Minor confession, when I first heard this on the radio, I thought the DJ said this song was by One Direction, and I desperately tried to NOT like it. It was impossible. Not trying to hate on One Direction but they aren't my favorite. 
Point is, this song was immediately bought and will be put on repeat until I hate it. 


App(s):  C25K Free, which I believe stands for 'Couch to 5K'. Its basically like I having my very own personal trainer while running. The app tells you when to walk, and then run. It's only 30 mins, three times a week. My sister-in-law told me about it. I'm obsessed. And my brother told me about 'Map My Run' which maps your run (duh) and also tells you how many calories burned. And my friend Kaitlyn reminded me Pandora exists. So I just run all three of those apps, and it works beautifully. 

I'm going to post my goal for the next week, which is to drink more water. Fingers crossed!

Linked up with Mrs. Katie of Katie did what, which is one the cutest names for a blog, ever. And her hubby taught me how to make a banner for my blog! Check it out, here
Also with Lauren Elizabeth, who is pretty cool!

What were your favorites this week? Let me know in the comments! I'd love to hear about them :)

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Make Your Banana Pancakes and Pretend Like it's the Weekend

So lately I have been on health kick. It sucks. To be completely honest. I am junk food person, always have been and probably always will. I love Chickfila, Steak n' Shake, and McDonalds french fries. And Dr Pepper. And chips. And frozen yogurt. You get the point. 

But I realized that over the last two years of college, I gained the dreaded freshman 15. WHY GOD WHY?! Taco Bell, I'm looking at you. I don't even really like Taco Bell. Anyways, I know that I felt a lot more comfortable at the weight I was when I started college, and want to get back there. 

I've been eating as healthy as I can the last few weeks, I haven't weighed myself and honestly losing weight for me is pretty difficult, which is awesome. Therefore, weighing myself might make me cry because I don't think I have lost weight. But, I feel 100x's better. I'm trying to severely limit processed foods, white sugars, and basically anything that tastes good. I jest. My point is, I eat fruits, veggies, and meat. Kind of like the Paleo diet, but not really. I would get hungry pretty quickly after each meal I ate, and I realized it was because I wasn't eating enough or drinking enough water. For some reason, drinking any substance is really difficult for me. But, I found a recipe that has saved my sanity. And I thought I would share it with you :) 

Banana Pancakes



Doesn't this look yummy? Two eggs scrambled combined with a one banana mashed really well. Cook like a pancake. I also topped one with a tiny bit of honey and a small handful of dark chocolate chips. Then I placed the second pancake on top of the first and smeared some homemade almond butter on top of it. Deeelicious. You can also just do one egg and one banana, which is what I usually do and add a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon to the "batter".
 

And the second recipe I just tried out tonight. Almond cups. Like peanut butter cups but with almonds. Yum. However, use a silicone cup cake liner or buy mini cupcake liners. Don't just grease the pan, because that doesn't work. Just trust me on that one.  Recipe is here.




Saturday, July 6, 2013

The Ghoul in Pajamas

A "things I'm loving" post inspired by the lovely Katie, of Katie Did What

Book: The Ghoul in Pajamas. Also known as the sixth chapter in the seventh book in the Harry Potter series. Nerd alert. Believe it or not, I was never into the HP series when it actually came out and I haven't seen the movies, either (shock, horror, gasp). 

Lets rewind to spring break, 2013. I had no plans. I'm not cool enough for that. So I did what any self respecting future teacher does...work on assignments. While making this (which was a ridiculous amount of work btw) I started listening to the first HP and the obsession was born. 


 

Workout: Thailand Tush

This hurts. But I feel like I get a really strong workout. My legs burn, but in a good way. And I like this whole, weekly Saturday favorites thing because it keeps me accountable to work out. Because honestly, I hate working out. Moving on.

Article of Clothing: This shirt. I wore this slammin' ensemble on the fourth on July. Shirt bought at Francesca's. 


Food: Everything. Ha, just kidding. My friend, Kim, and I went to the Black Walnut Cafe
and I had the best burger I've had in a long time. I should have taken a picture, but I devoured it in about five seconds. Sooo delicious. 


Thanks so much Katie, for this awesome idea! Check out her post here.


What have you been loving this week? Comment and tell me! I'd love to know :)

Saturday, June 29, 2013

Hello :)


I got the name for this blog from Ecclesiastes 3:11. I knew that I wanted this blog to be about the many processes I am going through. I was having a hard time coming up with a catchy title and everything I thought of was already in use (approximately 80 bazillion people have blogs). I kept playing around with the same words. beautiful. things. process. new. renovate. process. life. freedom. It came to me in the bathroom, glamorous I know. Beautiful process. Surely its already taken. Nope. And so this blog was born. Today, June 29, 2013, at somewhere around 9ish. 

Its okay not to have everything perfect in ten minutes. Like life. I also feel like a hypocrite because I don't spell okay like that. I spell it "o-k" like a normal person. I suppose this is a special occasion though. I am way to hard on myself and way to easy on myself. I don't take time to enjoy the process, I like to hurry it up so I can hurry it up and enjoy the end result. I end up missing out, sometimes. And beating myself up over it. Which is stupid. So, this blog will be the outlet of all my processes. Like loving Jesus. Showing Him to everyone I meet. Getting my wardrobe right (more on that later). Decorating my room. Graduating college. Becoming a teacher. Working out. Trying out a "gluten free" diet. Enjoying today, because tomorrow has enough worries. I hope you'll join me on my journey. :)