1. My weekend started at the Refinery 29 D.C. Launch Party at the Madewell store in Georgetown. That evening the space had exploded with extraordinary style, but despite all of the many fabulous ladies who were dripping with cool outfits the girls who really stood out to me were the ones smiling and who seemed to be having a really great time. I wished I had my camera to capture those ladies who were engaging, laughing and seemed comfortable in their own skin — no matter what they were rocking. With that event I was reminded that real style is effortless and about exuding personality and confidence. Cheers to all those wonderful ladies who expressed their individualistic style at the event.
2. At a #DC Residence pop-up shop and gallery opening I happily ran into a friend who I hadn't seen in a while. I was so excited to see her! After checking out the goods we left for some dessert and catch up time. I shared with her some ideas and things I'm working on and she was like, "Andrea, how can I help you?!" I really needed to hear that because I sometimes get caught up in trying to do everything myself.
I was brought up with the attitude that you should keep things to yourself until you know for sure they're going to happen. But lately I've been trying to do something a little different; I'm trying to be more open to sharing my ideas with others. In doing so I learned thatsharing with people who walk in a positive light can only send positive energy back my way.
3. I usually reserve my Sundays to do my hair and prepare my lectures and course assignments for the week, so I rarely hang out on that day. But this particular Sunday I was invited to a brunch with 6 other ladies and despite my weekly ritual I forced myself to go. And it was magical. I was soooo glad that I went. Brunch with such a lovely group of ladies reminded me that if there's an opportunity to meet wonderful people I should always try to make myself available.
4. Somehow, despite my out-and-about-ness over the weekend, I still managed to get a lot of work done. I also felt more rested and ended up having a great start to the week. So I reminded myself that sometimes you just have to make time for fun and that the work will get done.
5. This last thought was inspired by some great conversations I had throughout the weekend. Be encouraging. Whether you think an idea is crazy or not, when someone shares something with you, something they'd like to pursue or try, sometimes they just need to hear "go for it."
Of course you do not want to encourage an idea that could leave a friend or loved one injured, homeless or in trouble with the law, but oftentimes we don't have the capacity to understand why someone wants to eat jelly beans for a week, join a synchronized swimming team, or rock a hot pink jumpsuit. If that person wants to do it you just gotta sit back and say "I love you, and I think that's an awesome idea."
We can't impose our doubts and limitations on others. Just because we can't see what someone else might envision doesn't mean it's impossible. Just be open to listening and acknowledging the ideas that someone has to share.
These were all thoughts that came from my weekend. What about you, did you learn anything wonderful this weekend? Have an a-ha moment? Reminded of something fabulous? Do share.
