Summer 2014

This blog, I've realized, has become a personal diary that I can use to reflect on later in life. So much has happened this summer and it's truly exciting.

Event wise: I've been to Lake Charles, Louisiana, Pensacola, Florida, and HOBY and I'm also taking Scholars, Testmasters, and Sear's driver's ed. This might sound like the most boring summer ever but hey, at least I wasn't wasting my time at home. :)

Book wise: I've read quite a few so check out my goodreads site for more info!

Now let's focus on me me me and my emotions. (What a narcissist!) As you all know, I've been doing Blogilates. This July celebrates the one year anniversary of my doing it. (I honestly don't remember when I started.) I do wish I had taken before and after shots so I can fully see the change. This past week, I felt something I never thought I would. I felt completely happy and comfortable in my body, thanks to Cassey. I never quite loved my body- it just wouldn't look the way I wanted it it to. And although I am far from my ideal body, I 100% love and appreciate my body. So incredibly thankful, I am counting my blessings. This finding has allowed me to not be so harsh with myself when I don't do a scheduled workout or eat too many ice creams; I know my body deserves and you really do only live once. This inner peace I've found has changed me. I honestly feel like I've been looking prettier- maybe it's just my perception now that I'm changed, I don't know. :)

Today, I took a practice PSAT and made a lower score than before, which was disappointing, but it has really motivated me to study. Junior year of high school is coming up which means SAT, SAT, SAT. Ah, the stress (not really). So I've been (or I will) studying for that........... Getting ready for a lot of disappointment :))))))

K-dramas: I'M ADDICTED!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHH. NO WORDS.

Random loves: Chobani yogurt. Sia's new album. Clyde from Driver's Ed.

"Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

Much love,
Jennifer

Short and Simple: To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han

Click on the book to be redirected to the Goodreads page.

To All the Boys I've Loved Before - Jenny Han

After eyeing this book for months, I finally read it and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! I've been an avid fan of Jenny Han's contemporaries for so long- with Shug and The Summer I Turned Pretty, I was hooked! Burn for Burn was a bit of a disappointment but she definitely came back with this one! I can go on and on about what I love. I truly became attached to the narrator and her family. Everything was realistic and just screamed Jenny Han. I had no clue the love interest was Peter; I assumed it would be Josh but after reading halfway, I found myself falling for Peter and I was thinking, "Oh no, I have second lead syndrome. Story of my life," but trick was on her (actually still me) because Peter was the main lead! Peter was adorable and just AMAZING. I loved his faults and how this isn't a typical love story. Josh could have been more developed; I felt nothing much with him, but I understand why he played such a small role. I am SO excited for the sequel where we get to explore another boy from her letters~ I can't wait!

FIVE STARS!

Side note: When someone would interrupt me while I was reading, I would just exclaim, "THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD, OH MY GOSH." You can ask my mom; she can verify it.

Love you lots,
Jennifer

Life Update

It has been ELEVEN MONTHS since I last posted- OH MY GOSH. I have a lot to tell you.

I have definitely been reading less because I don't feel the same enjoyment that I used to from it which really saddens me. On the slightly upside, I've delved more into the world of k-dramas (although ironically as I mention this, I am on a hiatus). High school has brought with it a lot more maturity and a lot more friends I can rely upon and it's great. Making new friendships and strengthening old bonds are such amazing feelings. But, since last summer, I've been on a journey... to find the better me.

That summer, I found 'Blogilates' on YouTube. Don't know what that is? Search it on YouTube right now. It's a pilates channel run by Cassey Ho where she has a BUNCH of insane workouts. But the thing that separates her from the rest is her personality. She brings such life and joy wherever she goes, and she inspired me to start working out. I've always been skinny (except w/ a mini belly, haha) and have always been told to eat more. I admit, I workout to tone my body, so I can see my abs, quads, triceps, etc. But in the end of the day, it's so I can be healthier. I have a strict workout regiment now, all because of her, and I see crazy changes in every aspect of my life. I have also been eating healthier which means cutting out unnecessary carbs and grease (which is difficult because rice is present in every meal!) And, I have been trying to view life with a positive attitude and to turn my can'ts into cans. I try to be a better me and take on new challenges every day. It's scary, but it's the best feeling I could ever hope for.

I hope you guys discover something like Blogilates, that just lifts you off your feet and opens your eyes to numerous possibilities, unless you have already found it. I have definitely grown as a person, I've become stronger, and at the same time, more susceptible and open. So much has changed in a year, which excites me. I can't wait to see what comes next.

*mwah* Lots of love,
Jennifer