Things I've Learned

Being in my late (insert scream here) twenties, has taught me a couple of things about life. To be honest, I've always been terrified to grow up. It means things will never be the same, and you're just getting old. However, I've managed to figure out a few things along the way that have made this whole growing up thing a little easier.

1. Nobody's life is like the movies.

2. Siblings are the only thing you have that will connect you to your past and your future.

3. Smile. Even if you don't feel happy, it will make you feel better. I promise.

4. Don't chew with your mouth open. It's just plain rude.

5. Plans change. Your life will never go in the order you thought it would, and that's okay.

6. Take care of your skin, or you'll look your age.

7. Coffee fixes everything.

8. Have a good solo dance party. Your day will only get better.

9. A dog is THE best friend you'll ever have.

10. Travel every chance you get.

11. Try to remember people's birthdays.

12. Keep in touch.

13. Laugh. A lot.

14. No one will clean up after you. After all, you're a grown up now.

15. Be a good friend. Remember things they tell you & keep secrets.

16. If you have time to do something now, do it. ie. send a text, put away your laundry, do the dishes etc.

17. Cleaning your house is actually free therapy.

18. Don't yell.

19. Be a good coworker and colleague. Others depend on you.

20. Nothing is that serious. When it's serious, you'll know.

True Life: The story of a frustrated House Hunter

Have you ever tried to look for the perfect house? How long did that take? It seems like it's taking me forever plus a day. It's tough because I know exactly what I'm looking for, and living in a city where the housing market is tight, is just not helping my cause. I'm not asking for the perfect house. I'm even willing to put in some elbow grease and renovate. In January, I thought I found the house I wanted until the sellers pulled the house off the market. Since then, it's been one heartbreak after another. It's frustrating and discouraging to say the least. What's the typical timeline when looking for a home?

My want list:

• Lots and lots of closets
• Minimum of 3 bedrooms
• Minimum of 2 bathrooms
• A window in at least one bathroom
• Large windows that allow in a lot of light
• Small yard

Now that doesn't seem like too much to ask for right? Seems pretty straight forward. Unfortunately, everything I've seen either has no yard, tiny closets, only 2 bedrooms, etc. You get the picture. 

I recently learned that St. Joseph is the patron saint for selling or buying your home. After a little research, I found out it's true. A family friend also told me about it, and as a Christian I can't believe I've never heard this before. 

How it works:

• Ask St. Joseph to intercede for you before the Lord for your requests, including the selling or buying of your home
• Bury or place St. Joseph's statue on the property
• Bury the statue upside down with the feet pointing heavenwards.
• When your house sells or you buy one, be sure to bring the statue with you to your new home and place it in a place of honor as a reminder to thank God.

I googled religious stores in my neighborhood, and ended up finding more than I thought I would. Before making the trip, I called to find out if they had ever heard of this. Of course they had, and they had available kits. And by Kit, I mean a St. Joseph statue, along with a prayer and directions on how it works. 

I realize it sounds a bit crazy, but as a woman of faith, I truly believe. And when I find that house, I'm sure St. Joseph will have something to do with it. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Goodbye July

What happened to July? It feels like this summer has flown by without any warning. Anyone else feel that way? I've been so busy with work, that I almost forgot to enjoy it. Here's a glimpse into my July.

Beach Day: Ocean Grove, NJ

My family and I try to always take day or weekend trips somewhere close and not too far. There's so much around NY, that people don't realize and we try to take advantage when we can. We spent the day walking the boardwalk and strolling through a flea market. Sometimes, those are the best days.

Grand Opening: 5th Avenue

As you know, I travel every week opening stores all around the country. With our biggest opening this year happening in NY, it was nice to be home for a while. A while meaning a month. I'm not going to lie and say this was easy, but it was such a great experience. Especially seeing what you worked on for the last 8 months coming to life. That's definitely a day I won't soon forget.

Rooftop Nights: A POVBroadview Panel

Every month my friend gets a group of working women in NY together to talk about our points of view on how to balance being a woman in the working world. It's really interesting, hearing what other women are going through and knowing I'm not alone. Of course, I don't have kids but listening to their advice and stories are super helpful. It begs the question: Can women really have it all?

Pool Day: Donut Judge Us

I don't get to see my girlfriends as much as I'd like because of my travel and work schedule, so this weekend was pretty special. We spent the day in the pool, drinking sangria and enjoying each other's company. We had a chance to talk. Talk about anything and everything. Those donut floats made it that much more fun!

Happy Birthday: HM.com

One year ago, we launched HM.com for the first time in the US. It's been such an awesome year and we were so excited to celebrate. We had balloons, cake pops, a cake and champagne! 

Friday Nights: Jack's Wife Frieda

It's always a fun night when I get to spend it with my friend Jessica. From college years to life in New York, it's a blessing to have her here. I don't get to see her much but when I do, there's always a memory to be made. This is one of my favorite pictures of us. It captures everything about our friendship. 

Here's to hoping August is just as awesome!