Before we freak out, it should be noted that these shorts were completely hidden under a pale pink sundress and a stylish denim vest. I donned the shorts because I have hyperhydrosis and when I walk or run long distances, my sweaty thighs tend to rub together and cause massive chaffing. Ouch. Gross. In a desperate attempt to justify wearing spandex to a professional event, I tried all morning to attach some profundity to my decision.
This is the best I've got.
New York City has been the pedestal on which my dreams of pencil skirts, corporate offices, and toned calves have comfortably rested for the past 22 years. I've said since I was in middle school I wanted to move to New York. Who doesn't want to move to New York? But now that I'm here, I realize the city I've romanticized for so long is far more than its flashing lights and promise of endless possibilities. It's about a subtlety of confidence that I long for far more than a celebrity spotting or a designer tote. There's a sense that everyone and everything has a place in New York City. For a long time, I've worried I didn't have a place here -- that my talents and practices just weren't "New York" enough. This blog is to force me to come to grips with the idea that the only things holding me back from OWNING my spot in NYC are my own insecurities...and to help with overall self-actualization or whatever. If I want to wear Biker shorts under my clothing because that's what makes me comfortable that's ok. I'm still Jessie Mooney in New York City (and I have additional waist control!).
This is my dream. I get to live my dream. It's funny how the gifts (PTL/Mom&Dad) you want the most can be the hardest to accept. I don't deserve any of this, but I GOT it. There's no sense in worrying I'm not "doing it right."
I had the notion that New York meant leaving everything behind for once in my life, but after today I realize it's more like taking everything with me. My life experiences HAVE prepared for for this transition because they've outlined what will be important to me no matter where I live -- my faith, my family, my friends, good food, musical theatre, youtube videos of choreography, organized sports, covers with great harmony, j-crew clothing, Disney, fantasy novels, dancing to music, concerts and shows, working with kids, GRANOLA, being cynical about things I don't fully understand, engaging in sarcastic banter, well-dressed men, and exercising without fear of a nasty rash.
Orientation Tips
Love,
Meryl & Mary
ENERGY! CURIOSITY! FUN!
1. Blog AT LEAST once a week and write something short every day.
2. Keep a source list. (names, numbers, & email.)
3. Look professional & ask questions.
4. Think about your identity capital -- professionally and personally.
5. Think about your weak links.
6. Your ideas matter more than your prose.
7. Fake it til you make it and choose an expertise.
8. Read good articles twice.
9. Learn to write headlines/pitch.
10. Shut up & listen to people.
