Before and after pic. (might take a min to load)
*Thank you, cup of jo for showing me this.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Required reading...
This is something I stumbled upon recently and have again fallen in love. It's the poem, Phenomenal Woman, by the Great Maya Angelou. It's a great one to go back and reread. I've declared it my anthem!
PHENOMENAL WOMAN
by Maya Angelou
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing of my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can't see.
I say
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
The palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
from And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou
copyright © 1978 by Maya Angelou.
To our power,
RR
PHENOMENAL WOMAN
by Maya Angelou
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing of my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can't see.
I say
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
The palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
from And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou
copyright © 1978 by Maya Angelou.
To our power,
RR
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Creating
Ladies,
This is a reminder to CREATE something today! I have been knee-deep in creating some new and improved workshops and I can't get over how ALIVE it's made me feel. So often we go through our lives forgetting to nourish our creative souls, overlooking the very thing that feeds every other aspect of our lives.
We have a spark in us. Let's make sure to nurse it, celebrate it, and make it shine!
Lettin' my colors burn,
RR.
This is a reminder to CREATE something today! I have been knee-deep in creating some new and improved workshops and I can't get over how ALIVE it's made me feel. So often we go through our lives forgetting to nourish our creative souls, overlooking the very thing that feeds every other aspect of our lives.
We have a spark in us. Let's make sure to nurse it, celebrate it, and make it shine!
Lettin' my colors burn,
RR.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
SO good.
I absolutely love this! Think about it ladies, what's cool now isn't going to be cool tomorrow, and what was cool yesterday is "so over" today. It's fleeting. Awesome, on the other hand, might take a little work, but it's here to stay, my friends.
For Awesome A,
RR
Monday, September 12, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
This is my first back to school quote. It's about courage because like I've said to many of you ladies, I believe it takes more courage to be a teenager that really any other time in your life.
"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, "I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along." You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
Eleanor Roosevelt, activist and amazing human.
Boldly,
RR
"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, "I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along." You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
Eleanor Roosevelt, activist and amazing human.
Boldly,
RR
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Amy's Flavor
"I am peanut butter flavored ice cream. Does that exist? If it does, that's what I am. I am sturdy and strong and am a good rock to lean on. I feel like if you choose to have me as a friend, you have a friend who will be there to "fill you up", make you feel better about yourself. I'm supportive and happy, and (not that I'm bragging) a really good friend".
Amy--I want you to be MY friend! This is awesome! Who wouldn't benefit from a friend like you? Being dependable is one of the qualities in friends I hold most dear. You, my friend, are a breath of fresh air. Thank goodness for you.
Let's all be inspired by Amy and really try to be sturdy friends for each other. Lend a hand, or a shoulder...
xo,
RR
Friday, August 19, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
"Have only one rule. Be your wild, courageous, brilliant self every single day. No matter what."
-Leigh Standley @ Curly Girl Design, http://curlygirldesign.com/
*Check out Leigh's work. It's fantastic! It will make you smile and tear up and feel things and celebrate. She's pretty amazing.
xoxo,
RR
-Leigh Standley @ Curly Girl Design, http://curlygirldesign.com/
*Check out Leigh's work. It's fantastic! It will make you smile and tear up and feel things and celebrate. She's pretty amazing.
xoxo,
RR
Monday, July 25, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Bring It.
Who run the world? Girls
Who run the world? Girls
Who run the world? Girls
Who are we
What we brought
The world
Who are we
What we brought
The world
Who are we
What do we brought
We run the world
Who are we
What we brought
We run the world
Who run the world? Girls
Lyrics via "Run The World", Beyonce
Pics via The Girl Effect www.girleffect.org. To see more, check out this VIDEO.
What we brought
The world
Who are we
What we brought
The world
Who are we
What do we brought
We run the world
What we brought
We run the world
Lyrics via "Run The World", Beyonce
Pics via The Girl Effect www.girleffect.org. To see more, check out this VIDEO.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
"Don't compromise yourself. You are all you've got."
—Janis Joplin, (January 19, 1943 – October 4, 1970) was an American singer, songwriter, painter, dancer and music arranger. At the height of her career she was known as The Queen of Rock and Roll as well as The Queen of Psychedelic Soul.
I couldn't love this quote more. You're all you have and you're more than enough.
Boldly,
RR
—Janis Joplin, (January 19, 1943 – October 4, 1970) was an American singer, songwriter, painter, dancer and music arranger. At the height of her career she was known as The Queen of Rock and Roll as well as The Queen of Psychedelic Soul.
I couldn't love this quote more. You're all you have and you're more than enough.
Boldly,
RR
Friday, July 8, 2011
You're so silly....
I am currently wearing a big fat crown as I clean the floors and scrub my bathroom.
Life is short. Be silly. Have fun. Let loose.
Leading a life less ordinary,
RR
(pic via Marthastewart.com)
Leading a life less ordinary,
RR
(pic via Marthastewart.com)
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Repost: Luscious Lauren's Flavor!
It's so good, it needed to be posted again!
This post is so important to me. Lauren is one of the most courageous, driven, beautiful, and staggeringly funny women I've ever met. Her flavor was a year in the making, and readers, it was worth the wait. Lauren, thank you for being you. My life is richer/better/simply more awesome for you in it.
"Guess what? I finally decided...
Although I of course would like to come up with something more original and clever,after much obsessive thought, coffee it is...
I'm an acquired taste, you get me or you don't. I'm not too much to handle but I can come across quite strong, and as of lately, I'd like to think I am. I will sit back quietly minding my own, or give you a robust opinion, if you ask for it. I can be terribly bitter, I'm better in moderation, but I will always be there to accompany you through an ucomfortable time, try to warm your heart and give you ALL I have to offer.
Yay!!"
Let this inspire us to fearlessly love and embrace who we are.
Thank you dear friend,
RR
This post is so important to me. Lauren is one of the most courageous, driven, beautiful, and staggeringly funny women I've ever met. Her flavor was a year in the making, and readers, it was worth the wait. Lauren, thank you for being you. My life is richer/better/simply more awesome for you in it.
"Guess what? I finally decided...
Although I of course would like to come up with something more original and clever,after much obsessive thought, coffee it is...
I'm an acquired taste, you get me or you don't. I'm not too much to handle but I can come across quite strong, and as of lately, I'd like to think I am. I will sit back quietly minding my own, or give you a robust opinion, if you ask for it. I can be terribly bitter, I'm better in moderation, but I will always be there to accompany you through an ucomfortable time, try to warm your heart and give you ALL I have to offer.
Yay!!"
Let this inspire us to fearlessly love and embrace who we are.
Thank you dear friend,
RR
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
Hello gorgeous people! Not often do I quote men, but this is a GREAT one. Mr. Beckwith is fantastic. If you don't know about him, learn. He's truly a channel of goodness.
"An authentic ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE allows you to remain in the eternal Now because it is the awareness that all needs are met in the center of pure being-ness, which exists in the now mode of life....Remember, you are not here to acquire, but to fulfill the desire of your soul which is accomplished by actualizing your gifts that allow you to continue to become more and more of the essential YOU."
Life is good!
Peace and Blessings,
Michael Bernard Beckwith
"An authentic ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE allows you to remain in the eternal Now because it is the awareness that all needs are met in the center of pure being-ness, which exists in the now mode of life....Remember, you are not here to acquire, but to fulfill the desire of your soul which is accomplished by actualizing your gifts that allow you to continue to become more and more of the essential YOU."
Life is good!
Peace and Blessings,
Michael Bernard Beckwith
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Summer time...
Hello lovelies!
As summer is approaching, I'll be posting less often as I'm going to make sure I enjoy plenty of fun in the sun! You should too! Keep me in the loop with all your adventures! Check in soon - I'll be around!
xoxo,
RR
As summer is approaching, I'll be posting less often as I'm going to make sure I enjoy plenty of fun in the sun! You should too! Keep me in the loop with all your adventures! Check in soon - I'll be around!
xoxo,
RR
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
I wish I could have bold, dramatic background music to this quote. It's epic. Make it your theme song!
"be glad of life,
because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the stars; to be satisfied with your possessions; to despise nothing in the world except falsehood and meanness, and to fear nothing except cowardice; to be governed by your admirations rather than by your disgusts; to covet nothing that is your neighbor’s except his kindness of heart and gentleness of manners; to think seldom of your enemies, often of your friends…and to spend as much time as you can, with body and with spirit. These are little guideposts on the footpath to peace."
(henry van dyke)
fully,
RR
"be glad of life,
because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the stars; to be satisfied with your possessions; to despise nothing in the world except falsehood and meanness, and to fear nothing except cowardice; to be governed by your admirations rather than by your disgusts; to covet nothing that is your neighbor’s except his kindness of heart and gentleness of manners; to think seldom of your enemies, often of your friends…and to spend as much time as you can, with body and with spirit. These are little guideposts on the footpath to peace."
(henry van dyke)
fully,
RR
Monday, May 16, 2011
Dish up!
I just came upon this amazing artist! Here is one of my favorite pieces!
There's more where that came from! Check out her store, Artsyville
With full love,
RR
There's more where that came from! Check out her store, Artsyville
With full love,
RR
Sunday, May 15, 2011
We have a WEBSITE!!
Words cannot express my excitement! I hope you love it as much as I do!
www.tweenselfesteem.com
Thank you Rocky Roadville for all your support!
xoxo,
RR
www.tweenselfesteem.com
Thank you Rocky Roadville for all your support!
xoxo,
RR
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Happy Birthday Martha and in your honor, Eat Dessert First!
Succulent readers!
First everyone go to google.com today and see the animation! It's amazing!
www.google.com
Secondly, in honor of Martha Graham's birthday, I wanted to post one of my favorites quotes EVER, written by the diva herself. Enjoy. Read over and over and then again.
“There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is on a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.”
-Martha Graham (May 11, 1894 — April 1, 1991) was an American dancer and choreographer whose influence on dance has been compared with the influence Stravinsky had on music, Picasso had on the visual arts, or Frank Lloyd Wright had on architecture.
Vivaciously,
RR
First everyone go to google.com today and see the animation! It's amazing!
www.google.com
Secondly, in honor of Martha Graham's birthday, I wanted to post one of my favorites quotes EVER, written by the diva herself. Enjoy. Read over and over and then again.
“There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is on a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.”
-Martha Graham (May 11, 1894 — April 1, 1991) was an American dancer and choreographer whose influence on dance has been compared with the influence Stravinsky had on music, Picasso had on the visual arts, or Frank Lloyd Wright had on architecture.
Vivaciously,
RR
Monday, May 9, 2011
Holly's Flavor!
There's something about May that makes me want to start every day with a dance party. (and I have many mornings! hah!) It's also the time where we come out of our winter slumps and start doing something. The spark is ignited. The creation must be created--we are called to begin.
This is Holly. She's a real spark plug. Let's take a lesson from her book:
"My flavor has to be something wild and crazy! Is there such a thing as confetti, dark chocolate, and lemon sorbet? If so, that's me. I'm a combination of things. I love to be the center of attention and perform (I play the guitar) and I also love to sit back and watch the action happen. I am fun and crazy with my friends and I'm loving and patient with my brother and sisters. Now that I think about it, I'm going to say I'm an ice cream sundae. A sundae with a big fat cherry on top. ( I have red hair:) )"
Holly, from one red head to another, you rock. You are an ice cream sundae indeed! How much fun and light you must bring to your friends!
Go! Be Fabulous!
RR
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Girls are cool
This weekend, I had the fantastic opportunity to hang with a bunch of young ladies while doing a volunteer project. I was so amazed by their positive outlook on life and friends. They had a wonderful perspective on issues facing teen girls and seemed to have a really grounded way of navigating them. So to these fantastic young women--Bravo for Being Awesome!
Not that I believe everything should be a lesson, but--
when you are feeling low and maybe struggling in your friendships, remember--THERE ARE AMAZING GIRLS OUT THERE! Be brave, make friends out of your comfort zone. You might surprise yourself and find life long friends!
to being bold. to reaching out.
xoxo,
RR
Not that I believe everything should be a lesson, but--
when you are feeling low and maybe struggling in your friendships, remember--THERE ARE AMAZING GIRLS OUT THERE! Be brave, make friends out of your comfort zone. You might surprise yourself and find life long friends!
to being bold. to reaching out.
xoxo,
RR
Thursday, April 28, 2011
New Flyer!
Hello dear readers!
I'm so excited to unveil my new and improved flyer! What do you think?
This is the start of something good. I can feel it.
xoxo,
RR
I'm so excited to unveil my new and improved flyer! What do you think?
This is the start of something good. I can feel it.
xoxo,
RR
Monday, April 18, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
"There's such a lot of different Annes in me. I sometimes think that is why I'm such a troublesome person. If I was just the one Anne it would be ever so much more comfortable, but then it wouldn't be half so interesting."
- Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Doesn't this ring true? Sometimes I surprise myself with parts of me that just show up. Sometimes good, sometimes not-so-good. But it is all me and my job is to embrace and love all parts of me. To celebrate the good and learn from the others..
To falling in love with ourselves. fully.
xoxo,
RR
- Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Doesn't this ring true? Sometimes I surprise myself with parts of me that just show up. Sometimes good, sometimes not-so-good. But it is all me and my job is to embrace and love all parts of me. To celebrate the good and learn from the others..
To falling in love with ourselves. fully.
xoxo,
RR
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Addy's Flavor
"I'm some sort of swirled iced cream! I think the swirl is the glue that keeps me connected to all my friends. I am trustworthy and dependable. I also LOVE to have a great time. I guess I could say that my swirl in my backbone, maybe my desire to connect who/what I love..."
Thank you, Addy. Awesome.
xoxo,
RR
Friday, April 8, 2011
A Must See
Lovely readers,
Today's post was made possible by my lovely and amazing brother in law, extraordinarily talented, patient, and best dad in the world to my sweet nephews.
Thank you, Pete. The world needs more of "you".
Ladies, take 15 minutes today to watch this video. It came from the TEDwomen conference in Washington, DC. She will knock your socks off. Hold on...
Inspired,
RR
Today's post was made possible by my lovely and amazing brother in law, extraordinarily talented, patient, and best dad in the world to my sweet nephews.
Thank you, Pete. The world needs more of "you".
Ladies, take 15 minutes today to watch this video. It came from the TEDwomen conference in Washington, DC. She will knock your socks off. Hold on...
Inspired,
RR
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
A break for creativity
Dear lovely readers,
I apologize for being MIA for the past week or so. I've been feeling the need to step back, look in, and create...
This is what I've been doing. Enjoy!
xoxo,
RR
I apologize for being MIA for the past week or so. I've been feeling the need to step back, look in, and create...
This is what I've been doing. Enjoy!
xoxo,
RR
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Do What You Please...
Sparkly Kate, dear friend and regular contributor, sent me this and I LOVE IT. You will too.
Enjoy!
xoxo,
RR
Enjoy!
xoxo,
RR
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
The fancy and generous Elizabeth Taylor died today.
In her honor, a collection of my favorite quotes...
"I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them."
“I'm a survivor - a living example of what people can go through and survive.”
“It's all about hope, kindness and a connection with one another.”
"I call upon you to draw from the depths of your being — to prove that we are a human race, to prove that our love outweighs our need to hate, that our compassion is more compelling than our need to blame."
Ms. Taylor, you will be missed.
xoxo,
RR
In her honor, a collection of my favorite quotes...
"I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them."
“I'm a survivor - a living example of what people can go through and survive.”
“It's all about hope, kindness and a connection with one another.”
"I call upon you to draw from the depths of your being — to prove that we are a human race, to prove that our love outweighs our need to hate, that our compassion is more compelling than our need to blame."
Ms. Taylor, you will be missed.
xoxo,
RR
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Comfort
It is raining cats and dogs in Los Angeles and it's made me crave comfort. Comfortable clothes, couches, food...
It's also made me gracious and thankful for my friends with whom I can be myself; totally comfortable and at ease with all that I am (and am not). I say we take this time to say "Thank you" to our best friends, our confidants, and our secret-keepers. These are the women who provide our souls the comfort we need to be the bold, courageous women we are.
to molly ellen aliza
xoxo,
RR
It's also made me gracious and thankful for my friends with whom I can be myself; totally comfortable and at ease with all that I am (and am not). I say we take this time to say "Thank you" to our best friends, our confidants, and our secret-keepers. These are the women who provide our souls the comfort we need to be the bold, courageous women we are.
to molly ellen aliza
xoxo,
RR
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
A quote from my favorite author, poet, speaker, and a woman who knows how to live well:
"A Gift for You
I send you...
The gift of a letter from your wise self. This is the part of you that sees you with benevolent, loving eyes. You find this letter in a thick envelope with your name on it, and the word YES written boldly above your name.
My Dear,
I am writing this to remind you of your 'essence beauty.' This is the part of you that has nothing to do with age, occupation, weight, history, or pain. This is the soft, untouched, indelible you. You can love yourself in this moment, no matter what you have, or haven't done or been.
See past any masks, devices, or inventions that obscure your essence.
Remember your true purpose, WHICH is only Love.
If you cannot see or feel love, lie down now and cry; it will cleanse your vision and free your heart.
I love you; I am you."
— Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy (Make Your Creative Dreams Real: A Plan for Procrastinators, Perfectionists, Busy People, and People Who Would Really Rather Sleep All Day)
"A Gift for You
I send you...
The gift of a letter from your wise self. This is the part of you that sees you with benevolent, loving eyes. You find this letter in a thick envelope with your name on it, and the word YES written boldly above your name.
My Dear,
I am writing this to remind you of your 'essence beauty.' This is the part of you that has nothing to do with age, occupation, weight, history, or pain. This is the soft, untouched, indelible you. You can love yourself in this moment, no matter what you have, or haven't done or been.
See past any masks, devices, or inventions that obscure your essence.
Remember your true purpose, WHICH is only Love.
If you cannot see or feel love, lie down now and cry; it will cleanse your vision and free your heart.
I love you; I am you."
— Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy (Make Your Creative Dreams Real: A Plan for Procrastinators, Perfectionists, Busy People, and People Who Would Really Rather Sleep All Day)
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Happy 100th birthday to International Women's Day!
Let's be inspired, challenged, enraged, and empowered by the bold words of the awesome Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton:
Doing my part: Boldly & Proudly,
RR
Doing my part: Boldly & Proudly,
RR
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Lauren's Flavor
This post is so important to me. Lauren is one of the most courageous, driven, beautiful, and staggeringly funny women I've ever met. Her flavor was a year in the making, and readers, it was worth the wait. Lauren, thank you for being you. My life is richer/better/simply more awesome for you in it.
"Guess what? I finally decided...
Although I of course would like to come up with something more original and clever,after much obsessive thought, coffee it is...
I'm an acquired taste, you get me or you don't. I'm not too much to handle but I can come across quite strong, and as of lately, I'd like to think I am. I will sit back quietly minding my own, or give you a robust opinion, if you ask for it. I can be terribly bitter, I'm better in moderation, but I will always be there to accompany you through an ucomfortable time, try to warm your heart and give you ALL I have to offer.
Yay!!"
Let this inspire us to fearlessly love and embrace who we are.
Thank you dear friend,
RR
"Guess what? I finally decided...
Although I of course would like to come up with something more original and clever,after much obsessive thought, coffee it is...
I'm an acquired taste, you get me or you don't. I'm not too much to handle but I can come across quite strong, and as of lately, I'd like to think I am. I will sit back quietly minding my own, or give you a robust opinion, if you ask for it. I can be terribly bitter, I'm better in moderation, but I will always be there to accompany you through an ucomfortable time, try to warm your heart and give you ALL I have to offer.
Yay!!"
Let this inspire us to fearlessly love and embrace who we are.
Thank you dear friend,
RR
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
"There is too much pain in the search for perfection.
Come into movies 5 minutes late. Leave some books half
finished. Add a smudge to a drawing. Find the beauty
in what is, not what could be. Don't allow "perfect"
to become a synonym for "beautiful"."
-unknown
Come into movies 5 minutes late. Leave some books half
finished. Add a smudge to a drawing. Find the beauty
in what is, not what could be. Don't allow "perfect"
to become a synonym for "beautiful"."
-unknown
Friday, February 25, 2011
Beth's Flavor
"I'm ice milk. Have you had it? It's pretty awesome; interesting and different and surprising. Like me. It's super unique and rare. I'm not like the other girls at school, so I think this is a perfect take on who I am as a person."
Beth, yes I've had ice milk and I LOVE it. I also love that you see being unique and interesting as good. I hate it when young ladies equate normal to "right", and unique to "wrong". Let's all be as not-normal as possible! Give it a try! Wear what makes you laugh, read books that others don't, listen to music that makes you dance, do a cartwheel down the hall of your HS. Bring it, ladies. Tell me your stories..
Most definitely one-of-a-kind,
RR
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Something Wonderful
This was sent to me by my sparkly friend, Kate (her flavor: Strawberry). It's fantastic and I'd like to have it up on all the walls of my house.
xoxo,
RR
xoxo,
RR
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
Good morning on the West Coast!
Today, I'm leaving you with a poem rather than quote. It's one of my very favorites...
How to Be Really Alive
Live Juicy. Stamp out Conformity. Stay in Bed all Day. Dream of Gypsy Wagons. Find Snails Making Love.
Develop an Astounding Appetite For Books. Drink Sunsets. Draw out Your Feelings. Amaze Yourself.
Be Ridiculous. Stop Worrying. Now. If not now, then when? Make Yes Your Favorite Word.
Marry Yourself. Dry Yourself in the Sun. Eat Mangoes Naked. Keep Toys in the Bathtub. Spin Yourself Dizzy.
Hang Upside Down. Follow a Child. Celebrate an Old Person. Send a Love Letter to Yourself. Be Advanced.
Try Endearing New Ways to Love. Transform Negatives. Delight Someone. Allow Yourself to Feel Rich
Without Money. Be Who You Truly Are and the Money Will Follow. Believe in Everything.
You are Always on Your Way to a Miracle.
The Miracle is You.
Sark-
Today, I'm leaving you with a poem rather than quote. It's one of my very favorites...
How to Be Really Alive
Live Juicy. Stamp out Conformity. Stay in Bed all Day. Dream of Gypsy Wagons. Find Snails Making Love.
Develop an Astounding Appetite For Books. Drink Sunsets. Draw out Your Feelings. Amaze Yourself.
Be Ridiculous. Stop Worrying. Now. If not now, then when? Make Yes Your Favorite Word.
Marry Yourself. Dry Yourself in the Sun. Eat Mangoes Naked. Keep Toys in the Bathtub. Spin Yourself Dizzy.
Hang Upside Down. Follow a Child. Celebrate an Old Person. Send a Love Letter to Yourself. Be Advanced.
Try Endearing New Ways to Love. Transform Negatives. Delight Someone. Allow Yourself to Feel Rich
Without Money. Be Who You Truly Are and the Money Will Follow. Believe in Everything.
You are Always on Your Way to a Miracle.
The Miracle is You.
Sark-
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Rocky Roadville!
I'm so excited to have so many young women (of all ages) excited to share their flavor with me, to honor that I'm going to post a few I've loved over this past year....spoon up...
WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 2010
Kristin's Flavor
"I'm dark chocolate. Double Dark. I am not the girl who comes bubbling into the room. However if you want to have a good long talk and need thoughtful advice, I'm there for you. I'm not quirky or terribly silly. But I think what I have to offer is something deeper. I'm loyal, compassionate, and dependable. In my school, it's hard to find friends who won't flake. It makes me realize I want to be better than that. I'm the kind of girl who sticks with you for a while...yes--dark chocolate suits me".
I LOVE this flavor choice. Thank you so much, Kristin. I currently live in LA and even as an adult I am constantly battling dependability, whether it be myself flaking or others flaking on me. I have to wonder how important being a dependable friend is... Is it the most important quality? If it's not the top, it's pretty high up there. The thing I've learned through having many female friendships (some successful, some failed), is the flash and glitter certain friends bring to the table only last so long. The shine fades and what you have left is a friendship built on sand.
Let's focus on what's real in our friendships. Give love and appreciation to your dark chocolate friends, the one's who have stood beside you through the good and the bad.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2010
Colleen's Flavor!
She writes,
"Cinnamon*
You know, I wasn't sure how to answer that without sounding cliche. It is the first thing that came to mind like when people ask you what animal you would be.. Maybe it has something to do with my red hair or the fact that cinnamon is not too overpowering, but also has a strong kick at the same time~"
You know, this is why I love asking this question? Because I NEVER would have thought of cinnamon! When I asked this question to Colleen, she answered without even a hesitation. She knew. It was exciting to me--it reassured me that we all KNOW who we are. Instinctually, we have a sense of our true selves--Now, it's life that gets in the way, drives us off course and clouds our true understandings of who we really are.
As my dear friend, Mary once said, "Get outta my way, Life!"
I say we take a moment today, get quiet, and remind ourselves of who we truly are without the clutter of who we think we "should" be.
Strip it away and bathe in the wholeness of you. YOU are perfect, whatever flavor you are.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
Cami's Flavor!
She says to me, "Ripley, When you first asked me this question, I thought it was so silly and disregarded it. But it stuck with me, and now I can't get it out of my head. I even looked at your list and flavors and tried to see what really stuck out to me. It was fun thinking about it and now I've realized what flavor I am!!
CONFETTI
I am confetti, because I think I am a BLAST to be around! (she laughs) I think I bring out the fun in other people. I am proud of my grounded, vanilla base-however my love for life is what is most important and I think that's what the world sees and appreciates in me."
Ladies, as life rolls by day to day, take a moment to see where the celebration lies. I leave you with my favorite quote of all time.
"Here we are in our rare and precious lives, surrounded by moments begging to be noticed and celebrated.
Go! Celebrate!" -SARK
THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2010
Sophie's Flavor
"This is easy. I'm dark chocolate. No Question.
I'm not always the perkiest girl in the room, but I have a depth to me which I admire in myself. That's it, really. That's the best way how I know to explain it. Dark Chocolate--it just feels right."
Thanks Sophie! I love your flavor! I've always wanted to be dark chocolate! I love your depth too--it's what makes you so so special.
NEWS FLASH: Ladies, it's ok to be awesome.
Being humble does not mean you have to lose your self confidence. Look at Sophie. I believe it's perfectly wonderful (and necessary) to look at yourself in the mirror and see "gorgeous!" "perfect!" "fantastic!" I love that we can all look in the mirror and have immediate Xray vision into the core of who we are. Let's look at ourselves beyond the lipgloss and mascara, not letting the distractions of vanity get in the way of our true reflection-our dreams and hopes and secrets and wishes. Let's attempt to actually see the most perfect vision of ourselves.
Can you see her?
For this week: Challenge yourself to look in the mirror and choose to see the best parts of you. See your great laugh, your quirky smile, your bright eyes. See your full heart. Take the time and see your worth. Daily.
Let's reclaim being awesome.
perfectly,
RR
I'm so excited to have so many young women (of all ages) excited to share their flavor with me, to honor that I'm going to post a few I've loved over this past year....spoon up...
WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 2010
Kristin's Flavor
"I'm dark chocolate. Double Dark. I am not the girl who comes bubbling into the room. However if you want to have a good long talk and need thoughtful advice, I'm there for you. I'm not quirky or terribly silly. But I think what I have to offer is something deeper. I'm loyal, compassionate, and dependable. In my school, it's hard to find friends who won't flake. It makes me realize I want to be better than that. I'm the kind of girl who sticks with you for a while...yes--dark chocolate suits me".
I LOVE this flavor choice. Thank you so much, Kristin. I currently live in LA and even as an adult I am constantly battling dependability, whether it be myself flaking or others flaking on me. I have to wonder how important being a dependable friend is... Is it the most important quality? If it's not the top, it's pretty high up there. The thing I've learned through having many female friendships (some successful, some failed), is the flash and glitter certain friends bring to the table only last so long. The shine fades and what you have left is a friendship built on sand.
Let's focus on what's real in our friendships. Give love and appreciation to your dark chocolate friends, the one's who have stood beside you through the good and the bad.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2010
Colleen's Flavor!
She writes,
"Cinnamon*
You know, I wasn't sure how to answer that without sounding cliche. It is the first thing that came to mind like when people ask you what animal you would be.. Maybe it has something to do with my red hair or the fact that cinnamon is not too overpowering, but also has a strong kick at the same time~"
You know, this is why I love asking this question? Because I NEVER would have thought of cinnamon! When I asked this question to Colleen, she answered without even a hesitation. She knew. It was exciting to me--it reassured me that we all KNOW who we are. Instinctually, we have a sense of our true selves--Now, it's life that gets in the way, drives us off course and clouds our true understandings of who we really are.
As my dear friend, Mary once said, "Get outta my way, Life!"
I say we take a moment today, get quiet, and remind ourselves of who we truly are without the clutter of who we think we "should" be.
Strip it away and bathe in the wholeness of you. YOU are perfect, whatever flavor you are.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
Cami's Flavor!
She says to me, "Ripley, When you first asked me this question, I thought it was so silly and disregarded it. But it stuck with me, and now I can't get it out of my head. I even looked at your list and flavors and tried to see what really stuck out to me. It was fun thinking about it and now I've realized what flavor I am!!
CONFETTI
I am confetti, because I think I am a BLAST to be around! (she laughs) I think I bring out the fun in other people. I am proud of my grounded, vanilla base-however my love for life is what is most important and I think that's what the world sees and appreciates in me."
Ladies, as life rolls by day to day, take a moment to see where the celebration lies. I leave you with my favorite quote of all time.
"Here we are in our rare and precious lives, surrounded by moments begging to be noticed and celebrated.
Go! Celebrate!" -SARK
THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2010
Sophie's Flavor
"This is easy. I'm dark chocolate. No Question.
I'm not always the perkiest girl in the room, but I have a depth to me which I admire in myself. That's it, really. That's the best way how I know to explain it. Dark Chocolate--it just feels right."
Thanks Sophie! I love your flavor! I've always wanted to be dark chocolate! I love your depth too--it's what makes you so so special.
NEWS FLASH: Ladies, it's ok to be awesome.
Being humble does not mean you have to lose your self confidence. Look at Sophie. I believe it's perfectly wonderful (and necessary) to look at yourself in the mirror and see "gorgeous!" "perfect!" "fantastic!" I love that we can all look in the mirror and have immediate Xray vision into the core of who we are. Let's look at ourselves beyond the lipgloss and mascara, not letting the distractions of vanity get in the way of our true reflection-our dreams and hopes and secrets and wishes. Let's attempt to actually see the most perfect vision of ourselves.
Can you see her?
For this week: Challenge yourself to look in the mirror and choose to see the best parts of you. See your great laugh, your quirky smile, your bright eyes. See your full heart. Take the time and see your worth. Daily.
Let's reclaim being awesome.
perfectly,
RR
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Oldie but Goodie!
In honor of our 1st birthday let's continue luxuriating with some throwback posts....
xoxo,
RR
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2010
The Gold Medal...
I've been obsessed with watching everything I can on the Olympics this year. Usually, I catch something here and there, but this time around I am glued right to the TV for everything from Cross Country Racing to Ice Dancing.
It's very simple. I want to be an Olympian.
And because I haven't trained in let's say, skeet shooting my whole life, I've decided I want to be an "Olympian of Life". What do you think of that title? Ok ok, I know it's a silly name, but I think it rings true for most of us out there--
We want to have passion about what we do and love doing it.
So what is that to you?
It's too easy to let the inertia of life get in the the way of our dreams. Explore your passions, figure out what really excites you, and GO FOR IT. Life is too short to do anything but that. And for everyone out there who hasn't figured out their passion yet, look at your friendships, relationships, family--your passion might be in keeping those relationships strong and healthy. Passion doesn't have to be some activity, or talent to hone. A passion to love hard and live well is just as valid as someone's passion to be a ballerina. The key is to look within yourself and consciously create a life that you LOVE.
As "Life Olympians", we have to realize that the training is not judging yourself or your life, comparing it to others, or looking down on the choices we've made in the past. It's about constantly looking forward, waking up and making choices that make us more fun, interesting, and alive women.
xoxo,
RR
xoxo,
RR
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2010
The Gold Medal...
I've been obsessed with watching everything I can on the Olympics this year. Usually, I catch something here and there, but this time around I am glued right to the TV for everything from Cross Country Racing to Ice Dancing.
It's very simple. I want to be an Olympian.
And because I haven't trained in let's say, skeet shooting my whole life, I've decided I want to be an "Olympian of Life". What do you think of that title? Ok ok, I know it's a silly name, but I think it rings true for most of us out there--
We want to have passion about what we do and love doing it.
So what is that to you?
It's too easy to let the inertia of life get in the the way of our dreams. Explore your passions, figure out what really excites you, and GO FOR IT. Life is too short to do anything but that. And for everyone out there who hasn't figured out their passion yet, look at your friendships, relationships, family--your passion might be in keeping those relationships strong and healthy. Passion doesn't have to be some activity, or talent to hone. A passion to love hard and live well is just as valid as someone's passion to be a ballerina. The key is to look within yourself and consciously create a life that you LOVE.
As "Life Olympians", we have to realize that the training is not judging yourself or your life, comparing it to others, or looking down on the choices we've made in the past. It's about constantly looking forward, waking up and making choices that make us more fun, interesting, and alive women.
xoxo,
RR
Monday, February 14, 2011
My Favorite Holiday
Dear readers,
I send you love today from the tips of my toes to the ends of my crazy red hair.
This is my lovefest challenge to you:
Re-examine love.
Start Here:
you. are. worth. great. love.
bubbling over with gratitude for you,
RR
I send you love today from the tips of my toes to the ends of my crazy red hair.
This is my lovefest challenge to you:
Re-examine love.
Start Here:
you. are. worth. great. love.
bubbling over with gratitude for you,
RR
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Choosing our flavors!
Ladies!
It's our one year anniversary here at Rocky Roadville! It's so exciting to have had the opportunity to connect and learn from each and every one of you! So to celebrate, I would like to revisit some of our original postings. To remind us of our essence, one fancy lady might say:
MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2010
Let's Call it a "Character Education".
Let me explain:
There's nothing wrong with vanilla--it's fine, it's safe, it doesn't make a fuss. Now Rocky Road on the other hand, has a little bit of everything in it--a taste explosion, if you will. This is what I want in women. In a society where young girls associate self confidence to a swollen ego and "sassy" behavior, my intention is to create a space for young women and their parents, teachers, and mentors to re-instill the ethics we already know. To start conversations, debates, and sharing of stories that will will help us become the women we want to become or know we already are. Like I said, there is nothing wrong with vanilla, but there is something wrong with being vanilla and being fine with it, not wanting more. There are a million different flavors out there. Go! Explore! Find out what you want to be. Let's grab a spoon and dig in!
It's our one year anniversary here at Rocky Roadville! It's so exciting to have had the opportunity to connect and learn from each and every one of you! So to celebrate, I would like to revisit some of our original postings. To remind us of our essence, one fancy lady might say:
MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2010
Let's Call it a "Character Education".
Let me explain:
There's nothing wrong with vanilla--it's fine, it's safe, it doesn't make a fuss. Now Rocky Road on the other hand, has a little bit of everything in it--a taste explosion, if you will. This is what I want in women. In a society where young girls associate self confidence to a swollen ego and "sassy" behavior, my intention is to create a space for young women and their parents, teachers, and mentors to re-instill the ethics we already know. To start conversations, debates, and sharing of stories that will will help us become the women we want to become or know we already are. Like I said, there is nothing wrong with vanilla, but there is something wrong with being vanilla and being fine with it, not wanting more. There are a million different flavors out there. Go! Explore! Find out what you want to be. Let's grab a spoon and dig in!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
My readers,
I am absolutely in the middle of the project and had to drop everything to post this quote. It is one of the best I've ever heard. Take a moment, read this. Digest it.
“Self-respect cannot be hunted. It cannot be purchased. It is never for sale. It cannot be fabricated out of public relations. It comes to us when we are alone, in quiet moments, in quiet places, when we suddenly realize that, knowing the good, we have done it; knowing the beautiful, we have served it; knowing the truth, we have spoken it.”
-Whitney Griswold, President of Yale University
It's really good--possibly better than ice cream... ;)
sweet dreams,
RR
I am absolutely in the middle of the project and had to drop everything to post this quote. It is one of the best I've ever heard. Take a moment, read this. Digest it.
“Self-respect cannot be hunted. It cannot be purchased. It is never for sale. It cannot be fabricated out of public relations. It comes to us when we are alone, in quiet moments, in quiet places, when we suddenly realize that, knowing the good, we have done it; knowing the beautiful, we have served it; knowing the truth, we have spoken it.”
-Whitney Griswold, President of Yale University
It's really good--possibly better than ice cream... ;)
sweet dreams,
RR
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Charlie's Flavor
"This is easy. I'm chocolate. I'm full of flavor (personality)!"
Yes, Charlie, you are! I admire you so much! Keep it up--Keep living out loud!
xoxo,
RR
Monday, January 10, 2011
Eat dessert first...(or quote of the day!)
Readers,
One of my most succulent friends and devoted readers recently lost someone very dear to her. My hope is that this quote can bring her (and all of us at times of need) peace.
"There isn’t much that I can do, but I can share my thoughts with you and I can share my books with you and sometimes share your burdens too as on our way we go."
-Maria V. Preston
So much love,
RR
One of my most succulent friends and devoted readers recently lost someone very dear to her. My hope is that this quote can bring her (and all of us at times of need) peace.
"There isn’t much that I can do, but I can share my thoughts with you and I can share my books with you and sometimes share your burdens too as on our way we go."
-Maria V. Preston
So much love,
RR
Friday, January 7, 2011
So Awesome!
From the website www.beadforlife.org:
"BeadforLife eradicates extreme poverty by creating bridges of understanding between impoverished Africans and concerned world citizens. Ugandan women turn colorful recycled paper into beautiful beads. Women in Northern Uganda gather shea nuts and press them into shea butter for cosmetics and soaps. And people who care open their hearts,homes and communities to buy and sell both products.
The beads and shea butter become income, food, medicine, school fees and hope. It is a small miracle that enriches us all."
Ladies, rethink your 2011 parties! Let's have personal celebrations that have the potential to touch the rest of the world. Bring the idea to your schools, work, friends...
Let's do it,
RR
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
New Year, Same you*
Hello lovelies,
Welcome to 2011. I like the sound of 2011. It fills my mouth and rolls off my tongue. It's sounds luxurious.
Try it, 2011, 2011....
This is a year I plan on really enjoying!
I wanted to write something to address the whole "New Year, New You" mentality. How about we adopt the thinking of not needing to be "New". We are full and wonderfull and plenty-just as we are. There's no need to be "new" anything. Let's take this year and work with the abundance we already possess in ourselves. Ladies, instead of layering on "new", let's peel back and discover the exceptional "you" that's there already.
This. This we can do.
Cheers to 2011,
RR
Welcome to 2011. I like the sound of 2011. It fills my mouth and rolls off my tongue. It's sounds luxurious.
Try it, 2011, 2011....
This is a year I plan on really enjoying!
I wanted to write something to address the whole "New Year, New You" mentality. How about we adopt the thinking of not needing to be "New". We are full and wonderfull and plenty-just as we are. There's no need to be "new" anything. Let's take this year and work with the abundance we already possess in ourselves. Ladies, instead of layering on "new", let's peel back and discover the exceptional "you" that's there already.
This. This we can do.
Cheers to 2011,
RR
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