Multilayered Ladies

Wardrobe provided by  Saint Claude Social Club (Ig: @saintclaudesocialclub), Photography: Lauren Massey (Ig: @lboots)

To the multilayered ladies...

I love you
You're necessary
Don't let them complicate you
Don't let them abuse your magic
Nevermind the ones who don't understand you
You're not meant for everyone
Don't let them compare you
Don't let them squeeze you into that little box
You don't fit in and that's ok

Your words are like spells
Your thoughts are outlandish
Your mind goes to infinity and beyond
You're the real deal
So real the fake can't even translate
Reality checks in with you

Your layers are thick and hard to peel
No knives can cut through
No tools can unscrew
Don't let them mold you
Don't let their fears hold you
You're the bravest of the brave

You're golden
A diamond in the ruff
A gem
A hidden treasure
Not everyone can see your value
And some that do don't always know what to do

Don't let them tell you you're too much
You are enough
You're more than enough...
You're everything and more
You're more than most..

It's not easy being you, I know
They'll try to bring you down
They'll put thoughts in your head..
"You're difficult" No, you're a challenge
"You're too outspoken" No, you're assertive
"You're unpredictable" No, you're spontaneous
"You're emotionally unstable" NO...you know how to feel

They'll project their insecurities
Try to make you what they want you to be
They'll speak negatively about you
Try to make you the villain
Don't believe the hype
You're what they wish they could be
The brave one
The risk-taker

You're the one someone's been wishing for
You're someone's wildest dream
You're the love of your own life
The joy in your own heart
This world needs more like you
This world needs more
This world needs you
This world is yours...

Don't let them take your world away

Pattern Maker

Blouse: DVF Vintage by way of Buffalo Exchange, Pants: Forever XXI, Necklace: Vintage, Shoes: Elisabetta Franchi for Celyn b.

Photography by: Danielle "Lil Bit" Miles

I'm admittedly a creature of habit. I know what I like, I typically stick to what I know, & my behavior is seemingly predictable. I have somewhat quirky patterns, like voluntarily sleeping on my couch [because it's convenient and comfortable] and then relocating to my bed at about 5am every morning. I repeatedly watch every season of Sex and the City on DVD, because its my favorite show and I'm sick of reality tv [and I also don't have wifi *tear*]. I eat French fries after 11p almost every night, because duh...FRENCH FRIES! Every Wed. I go to Jamba Juice for Loyalty Day and buy a $3 Energy Bowl [because I'm devoted and loyal to places that offer solid discounts]...

Then there are some not-so healthy, more life-altering patterns...like immediately stressing myself out about something before even attempting to see a silver lining. I give people waaaay too many chances, probably because I'm more patient with other people than I am with myself [the sensitive Cancer sign in me]. I overthink/over-plan EVERYTHING before going into it [ meanwhile life is looking at me like "Girl please"]. I'm extra hard on myself and often overlook the progress I've made because I'm too focused on the end result. 

I'm not perfect [cliche, but true], but it's important that I recognize my patterns in life: good and not-so good. By knowingmy patterns, I'm able to address and access them. I'm perfectly ok with watching Sex and the City everyday on repeat, but maybe sometimes I'll read a good book or do some writing instead. French fries will ALWAYS be my guilty pleasure, but cutting back a bit may do my body some good. I'll always be caring and considerate [its in my make] but I should probably be more assertive and particular about who I allow into my personal space. I'm a Type A personality, so order is necessary for me to function, but maybe I should put more trust in my instinct. It always steers me in the right direction [whenever I do follow it]. And maybe, just maybe I should cut myself a little...a lot more slack. I'm doing really well for myself and I am proud of my accomplishments in life thus far. 

The key to a healthy life is balance; In all aspects. Recognizing your patterns is the first step to changing them. I'm a creature of habit, but spontaneity and "going with the flow" can be quite invigorating. My reoccurring personal task will be to make a pattern out of breaking old patterns and trust in the natural course my life is taking. I will keep my eyes open and fresh. I'll take on new ventures and ideas. I'm blessed with only ONE life to live. It's important that I make it the best. 

Xoxo