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I don't normally go to comic book stores, but when I do, it's on comic book day! #Denver #freecomicbooks #Scorpio #dark
There's been a lot of magic happening within these walls... #Denver #entrepreneur #CSCC #DiveBarStar #art #music #life
What a great feeling, seeing Rock for Youth so brightly and clearly displayed on a Wednesday morning! Visit Www.rockforyouth.com and enter promo code "MENTOR" for $10 off today! #Denver #nofilter #music
If you're in Denver and looking for a really fun Friday night, look no more! #RockforYouth2015 is taking over the historic Bluebird Theater on May 1st, with special guests Amanda Hawkins and Air Dubai, hosted by the lovely wordsmith Bianca Mikahn. And today, you can use promo code "MENTOR" for $10 off of tickets, exclusively at rockforyouth.com. Check it out and help us change the lives of our youth for the better! #Denver #causes #promocodewednesday
When you start the journey to breaking patterns that do not serve you. #Denver #entrepreneur #spiritualdevelopment
Words speaking me today set to a photo from my walk. Lilacs, Lauryn, & lessons. #Denver #entrepreneur #lyrics #Spring
I've got the travel bug rrrrreal badly. #travel #entrepreneur #quotes
It's my goal to get a Bernese Mountain Dog. I love them so much! Anyone have experience with them? #Denver #dogs #Bernese #lifegoals
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Things I Want Everyone to Know (25)
This is it. The final list. I've written 25 Top 10 Lists counting down to my 25th birthday and it's finally arrived. I cannot wait for this time. Things have changed so drastically each year, and though it can't always be roses, I look forward to what may come. I'm grateful to those who have read these lists and followed them. I had no idea what the last list should be. So, here it is. Top 10 Things I Want Everyone to Know:
Nothing is more important to me than the people I love. My family is my wealth. My friends are my family.
Change is good. So good and so necessary.
Fear is underrated. It's good if it's there. It means it's probably more worthwhile. Be afraid, and do it anyway.
Love yourself. Love yourself like your mother, significant other, sister, friend, doctor, healer, preacher... Show yourself some love.
People pick apart in others what they don't like about themselves. So pay attention to what really bothers you and ask yourself why sometimes. Analyzing your own motives is just as important as analyzing others'.
Celebrate things! I love how people laugh about those who celebrate every little thing, but this is life, folks. If it's a big step, if it's something great, celebrate it.
Caring about people and things is amazing and brave. Care. Don't care so much you're a hot mess over other people's problems. But care enough to actually feel for others and you can help make the world better.
Abstract: The music always brings love. It's the subtext because feelings are hard to separate from the high of the song. But the music doesn't always keep love. So always keep the music.
None of us are invincible. Be grateful for the good things in life, because we are made to break and that process is constant.
Don't be afraid to the first to say it.
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Things I've Accomplished So Far (24)
Sometimes we need to be reminded of what we've done. I am really bad at giving myself credit for the things I've accomplished because I get caught in the "never good enough" spell. So, to get my mind on track for this new year, I am putting things into perspective. I encourage everyone to really take time to think about what YOU have accomplished and say, "Hey, I'm doing okay," even when you don't think you are. Here are the...
Top 10 Things I've Accomplished So Far:
Skipped the 5th grade and maintained a high GPA
Graduated from college with a degree in Professional and Technical Writing
Planned multiple public events from start to finish
Maintained strong and loving friendships with many different people for many years
Maintained long-term professional relationships and contacts
Performed on many stages and for many events
Had my photography hanging on the walls of businesses and sold a piece
Been there without question for my little sister
Have an entrepreneurial spirit that I act upon by working independently throughout the years
Being an active volunteer and cause champion
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Goals for Age 25 (23)
We're approaching the end. The end of 24, the end of this series, and the beginning of a new chapter. Every year I keep a list of things I want to accomplish. It's always lengthy, and I usually accomplish about half of the things. This year, my list is a little shorter and a little more involved. I'm coming from a place of really securing what I've worked for and moving forward with new ventures. So, here it is, my... Top 10 Goals for Age 25:
Travel and have more culturally enriching experiences Finally, in April, I have a no-excuses reason to travel to Hawaii for the wedding of one of my best friends. I always put off traveling, missing many a SXSW, a Vegas weekend, and a New York state of mind. But this year, I'm going. Where? Everywhere I can.
Volunteer more I really enjoy volunteering, and I find causes here and there that I can stick with for a while, but since working at a non-profit, that part of my life has slowed down in preference of focusing on my job. Now, I'm realizing how important it is to be involved outside of the workplace, even if that workplace is one with a strong mission. I'm currently on the hunt for a great organization to be that new piece of my life.
Learn how to love music as a fan again I spent so much time working with musicians that every single night out became a night to make connections for professional purposes, and I would feel so incredibly drained after a simple night out. I'm a total introvert in extrovert clothing, so I really need that recharge time from work. So, I really want fun nights out to feel just like that - a fun night out.
Get on top of my health and wellness I really let myself go in 2014, for lack of a better idiom. After having to adjust to a lot of lifestyle changes, mainly a lot more sitting and time commitment, I really have a lot of catching up to do on my current state.
Get a new tattoo I've been running tattoo ideas through my head for years now, and I may have finally come up with the elements I want to include. I now need a damn good artist with a great creative mind to help me merge the ideas.
Spend more time with my core group My close group of friends is like my family, and we are all so busy, and I am so far from them all the time, that we rarely find the time to hang out that we should. I know that I'm super responsible for that pattern, but I would love to break it with some quality chill time.
Stop bad-mouthing myself and others I'm can be a hopeless gossip, mostly with my own info. Unfortunately, it doesn't always fare well for me because no matter how little embarrassment I feel, there are usually others involved who may not want their info out their and my judgments placed on it. So, I vow to be more tight lipped and open minded.
Create more art Life gets so busy and creating becomes very daunting. Just taking time to use my brain for creative ventures will really improve my outlook and perhaps make something awesome.
Make spirituality a priority I have gotten so out of touch with my spiritual self. The self that really helped me get as far as I got the first time and foster my best self. I want to not only commune more with other spiritual people, but work on my inner connection to God how I understand it.
Start my new business(es?) I am an entrepreneur to my core, and I am so blessed to have other entrepreneurial folks around me who want to change the world. This is the year to start something great, and I am so incredibly excited!
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Things We Should Care About More (22)
I was going to do a post about 10 awesome non-profits. But, I think there is awesome work being done to combat a lot of unfortunate truths in our society, some that have nothing to do with non-profit work, but awareness, art, and people who just plain care. So here are my thoughts on the… Top 10 Things We Should Care About More:
The messages we are sending kids about their “flaws” First of all, flaws are completely subjective. Your flaw may be my trademark and vice versa, so why we insist on letting our kids be exposed to so many harmful images and ideas about their worth is really troubling. Here’s a great example of how we refuse to empower our girls especially:
The imbalance of wealth representation in our government I don’t know about you, but it makes no sense to me to have a government full of people who make more than any average American.
The effects of our words Considering our free reign on social media these days, many of us are completely desensitized to the effects that our words and opinions have on others and our relationships. Most people don’t know how crazy you are until you lay it all out there by just plain being a social media nightmare.
Public education systems Jefferson County schools in Colorado had mass walk outs due to potentially having the history curriculum changed drastically to further praise the “heros” of history. There is a quote that says the victors write history, but that in no way means they are heros. Victory and heroism are not intertwined. The thought of this even being an option brings up fundamental issues in American schooling that we all need to learn more about.
The meaning of “privilege” and how it effects society I know so many people who hate the word and concept of “privilege.” We all have things that we feel set us back socially, and we hate to admit that others may have it harder. But, to make this a non-issue, perceptions of others have to become less harsh and more accepting. Until we can all agree, all be comfortable with someone different than we are, all stop looking for a scapegoat, some type of person will become “other.” That is where thought patterns start to take hold of our perceptions, creating privilege. It’s not a way to cry wolf, it’s a way to understand why some are working harder every day than others.
Publicizing bad behavior "Bad" is subjective, but most can agree that mass shootings and teen pregnancy are not things we want to encourage in our society for a lot of different reasons. So STOP allowing it to completely pervade our media and conversations. Absolutely no one who has shot up a school should get more attention than the victims. We take away the humanity that we’ve already taken away by become so disconnected as a society. Change the focus.
Saving energy and winterizing the nation The polar vortex was a crazy crazy time, and as Coloradan, I’m grateful it was relatively mild for us compared to much of the mid-west and eastern states. But what causes these extremes? Nature to a degree, yes, but right now, global warming. Yes it’s a real thing, and yes we need to get more energy efficient and get better systems of saving ourselves from the elements we helped create.
Making connections with other people We are so out of touch. Getting back into the swing of really caring for another is so vitally important, and we MUST practice caring for others and getting to know them to stop the loneliness and craziness we see so highly publicized. A good thing to practice is picking up the phone and calling someone, or even making time to meet with them. Personal, professional, whatever the motive, make the connection. In post 21, I outlined 10 potential ways to show someone you love them. Check it out, and DO IT. We are suffering on Earth, and a little love goes a long way.
The intentions of others Many don't believe that intention matters when an act either doesn't occur, or an act is for the bigger good. I would agree, but only slightly. Knowing why people are doing what they are doing is very important. A great example is this little history lesson from the blog Tea & Breakfast that explains why the Kim Kardashian ass photo is a little more than just something to entertain... Read the piece here.
Getting the facts We are so quick to condemn others, myself included, based on half-assed, twisted representations of what might be happening. Get the facts first. Reserve judgement. Don't be that guy eating allllll the crow.
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Ways to Say I Love You (21)
Some days, when we're feeling particularly disenchanted, we could use little reminders from those who love us that they, well, love us! So here are a few ways to get your love across...
Top 10 Ways to Say I Love You:
Mixed CD or Playlist This method is my favorite and can apply to all types of love. I've made mixed CDs for best friends, family, crushes, road trips, and all kinds of meaningful people or life circumstances.
Tell People When You're Reminded of Them It's so important to tell people you love when you hear or see something that reminds you of them. Not only do you remind them that you know and love them, but you also remind yourself of the good times.
Calling or Handwriting a Letter Instead of texting or sending an email message/facebook message, call! Sometimes people don't want to chit chat, but calling or receiving mail is so unusual these days that sometimes people are genuinely surprised and warmed by the gesture.
Go Out of Your Way Do you really care about someone? Be willing to go the extra mile for them. We get so caught up in our comfort and rushing around that we forget to just be there for someone else.
Remember Details About Them It's so nice when people remember things you tell them or details of your life and check in and use them to relate. Some people think it's creepy, I think it's flattering.
Keep the Date Make time to hang out and stick to it. We alllllll love to say "let's get coffee, or let's catch up," but the reality is that life gets busy and we don't make the time. The best way to really show that someone means something to you is to give your time. So, go ahead, keep the date.
Divulge Let the people you love see you and know you. When you share and give personal history, it creates those long lasting bonds.
Hugs Sometimes we just need a hug. That's all.
Give Them Space We all need some space and time to really figure ourselves out. Loving someone really does mean letting them go and figure themselves out, and still loving them and being there for them.
JUST SAY IT! Just say, "hey, you there, I LOVE YOU!" Even in different languages, even at unexpected times.
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Things I'd Like to Learn More About (20)
This is kind of like a bucket list, but more of a education list. It is a beautiful thing to always continue learning, and this is a list is where I would start. Here are the...
Top 10 Things I'd Like to Learn More About:
Wine I don't actually enjoy most wine, but I absolutely love the process that goes into making wine. I love the grape picking, stomping, naming, design, earthy hints of this and that. I would love to become well versed in such a fun craft.
Chakra Healing and Alignment I've had help from other spiritual professionals in recognizing and beginning to bring my chakras into balance, but I would love to really understand and know how to recognize what is off in myself and those around me when it comes to that side of wellness.
Natural Cures and Cleanliness I was so excited to see how well a mixture of vinegar and baking soda worked to clean the bathroom floor the other day. Honestly, it did erupt like a volcano at a middle school science fair, but the effects were still noticeable. When I lived with my aunt for a year, I learned so much about using food and natural remedies to help me with stomach issues, headaches, etc. I would love to learn more tricks of the trade, and see just how much I can move away from depending upon these big business medicines for health problems.
Grant Writing I have my degree in Professional and Technical Writing, a portion of which includes experience in grant writing. I would love to actually learn more about writing grants and creating proposals that really represent the heart of an organization. Submitting a proposal for a competitive grant and getting it would be such a thrill.
Gardening People love to garden and say that it is great for your vitality. I never felt like a had a green thumb, but I do like the idea of growing your own food and the beauty of flowers and plants. I would love to eventually make gardening and creating beauty and sustenance in my own backyard part of my warm months activities.
Religion I love studying religion and philosophy in general. Growing up in a heavily Christian environment, and not necessarily relating to it, I always had interest in learning about other cultures and ways of thinking. So far, I see that basic philosophies are pretty much the same throughout varying religious beliefs, and I would love to explore that concept more.
Music I'd like to learn some kind of instrument in conjunction with learning more about music overall. Not just from a technical perspective, but historically as well. I have a pretty solid foundation of knowledge already, but music is such a huge part of my life that learning even more would be fitting and necessary.
Investing This is a huge one for me. I love money. Not in a greedy way, but in a scientific way. I love spending, don't get me wrong, but I'm far more into the science of making money grow and work for you. I, however, know very little about it. It is my goal to really grow my finances to a place where I can care for myself and others.
Photography All the things I know about photography, I learned by doing. I'm completely untrained in the field, yet have managed to really learn how to capture the best in people. I would love to expand that knowledge to create more creative and enticing photos, and learn more about the editing process in hopes of it becoming a less daunting task over time.
Home Renovation & Design As a very creative person, I am fascinated by all things I can get my hands on and alter. Homes are not an exception. I absolutely love the idea of taking an old house and learning about the options and challenges when bringing it up to date, or even designing a house from scratch. That investing will produce some pretty awesome properties.
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Best Spots in Denver (19)
I love to stumble upon fun new hang outs, especially places where you can really have a good time, have great sound quality for music, great food, you can get to know the staff, and/or are hidden treasures. Here's my opinion on the...
Top 10 Best Spots in Denver:
The Soiled Dove Underground This sneaky venue has had some amazing acts, and a full menu. I love going there for intimate shows with a more chill and mature crowd.
The Meadowlark The Meadowlark is so much fun because one night it is open mic, the next a disco bar, the next a fun place to just chill on the patio and drink with friends, or a getaway to end a fun night.
Coffee at The Point This coffee place is cute, has happy hour, and is locally owned. It sits right in the heart of Five Points, bringing many different types of people together with its charm and accessibility.
Denver Botanic Gardens The gardens are peaceful purely due to how pretty they are. And they're right in the middle of the city. It's a perfect get-away to forget your surroundings.
Red Rocks Amphitheater Red Rocks can be overwhelming for shows, but it truly is a spiritual summertime experience, especially seeing bands you really love. Or, go to check out the scenery. It's still gorgeous even without the music.
MAKE Make is a brand new concept by founder Alyssa Jahns. Go to Make to decorate your own cake or cupcakes with all the wonderful tools and candies you can imagine. It takes you to that creative part of your brain and then gives you a nice sugar high. Win-win.
The Walnut Room on Walnut I really love this venue because it's so intimate. When I saw Andrew Belle perform there, I was in a total trance. It's so small that talking is awkward and obvious, which really allows for the crowd to just become one with the music.
Rooster and Moon Coffee Pub Rooster and Moon has delicious food, coffee, and a full bar. If you are part of the music and arts "scene" in Denver, you're likely to run into someone you know while you visit. It's really become a hub for freelancers and past-high school theater kids to explore small business and pretty coffee designs.
Denver Aquarium I love the aquarium. If you want some yummy high priced food, you can get it. If you just want to be one with sea life and zen out in front of a large tank of beautiful creatures, you can do that. Want to see tigers, (who doesn't really...) you can see tigers! How does that fit with an aquarium? Not sure. But pretty sure there are mermaids too.
Tavern Rooftop Downtown I really enjoy summer evenings on the Tavern Rooftop. It's so much fun, and so many bands roll through and do shows for local radio stations. I also met Johnathan Jackson from the show Nashville at that bar. Good times!
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Favorite Animals (18)
I love animals. So here are some pictures of the animals I love. In baby animal form.
Top 10 Favorite Animals:
Huskies
White Tigers
Teacup Piglets
Cocker Spaniels
Giraffes
Orangutans
Polar Bears
Gorillas
Otters
Dolphins
25 Top 10 Lists for 25: Top 10 Posts to Read from This Blog (17)
I've been an active blogger for much of my life, giving thoughts and exploring emotions on various topics that hit me in the moment. So, here are some of my posts from more recent history that I feel could use a re-visit.
Top 10 Posts to Read from This Blog (Click Title to View):
Sigh of Grace (poem about my current love situation)
Why I Love Barcelona (thesis on a recent big life change)
Dr. Maya Angelou (my ode to a legend)
I’m Ready to Be Heartbroken (thoughts on moving forward)
An Open Letter to a Friend: (words I found for my friend when he couldn't find them) Part 1 - In it Part 2 - On on the other side
That’s Racist Bro (my run in with everyday racism)
Never Discount the Details of Your Life (good ol' advice)
24 Things I Learned in 24 Years (some lessons from a seedling)
When I Stopped Hanging with People I Don’t Like (opinion piece)
My Heart, Your Heart (another poem for crushes)