Fresh Life: Studying Abroad in Tahiti by Courtney Liu
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Studying Abroad in Tahiti by Courtney Liu
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#100ThingsICRAVE: Connections
/Have you shared 100 things you CRAVE with Melody, CRAVE Company and its new Urban Campout community yet? You should! I'm sharing some of mine this week over on CRAVE's blog and newsletter. Continuing my #100ThingsICRAVE series, this time with my community.
I laugh a bit every time I say this, but it took discovering my Myers-Briggs personality type to understand that I truly am energized by the relationships in my life. Growing up, my community was primarily my family. As I've grown older, there's a small group of friends I keep in addition to my loving family, boyfriend and bulldog. Freelancer life has me being very guarded with how I spend my time and who I spend it with. I love connecting others and learning from the people I meet along the way. The best friendships grow out of organic reciprocity; I support and give as much of myself as I can to those closest to me, and demand as much unconditional love & support from them in return.
Meet some of my aces in today's #100ThingsICRAVE post on the CRAVE blog. #100ThingsICRAVE is an exercise we did at the Urban Campout retreat. While thinking of 100 things you CRAVE might sound daunting, it's really not that hard once you break it down into categories.
Follow along on CRAVE's newsletter list, blog and Pinterest board.
Thanks for having me CRAVE! Super honored to be part of this community and sharing my CRAVEs with all of you. If you have any questions, feel free to comment or tweet me!
Fresh Reads: Unlabel / On Reconnecting w/Your Core Strengths
/Being sick at home all week sure has its perks. I've been battling what seems to be a cold and nasty allergy cough, and rather than force myself out to spread some germs, I canceled everything on my calendar, moved meetings to satellite calls and gave myself some self-imposed cabin fever. While at times it drove me nuts, not having to go anywhere left a lot more time to get caught up on things like emails, reading and writing. I'd started Marc Ecko's Unlabel last fall; after seasons of slowly making my way through, I powered through the second half of it in one night this week. Boy, was it worth it!
For those who don't know Marc Ecko, he's a cultural ingenue in the realms of streetwear, hip-hop and graffiti. Most famously, he's the founder and face behind Ecko Unlimited and its family of streetwear collection brands as well as the figurehead behind Complex Magazine/Media. As Unlabel will show you, Marc's had many other endeavors in art, video games, high fashion and more. He weaves all of his entrepreneurial successes and failures into a brilliant story on personal branding and starting your own business. He even appeals to the analytical brains by conveying his points with an algorithm; each chapter highlights one piece in this algorithm that eventually comes together in a formula for 'unlabeling' yourself.
As you can imagine, a white Jewish kid from Jersey had a hard time establishing a name for himself in graffiti culture, then in streetwear, then in mainstream fashion. This is where the 'Unlabel' flame is ignited. Ecko shows how he overcame the presumptions and the hardships put in place by the 'gatekeepers' of these 'scenes'; that despite what label one might place on him, he didn't have to live in a box, limited by what that label meant.
I could go on forever about all the things I resonated with in Unlabel - the trials and tribulations of entrepreneurship, personal branding, being a creator, breaking down barriers, being vulnerable, thinking strategically, etc. - but what struck me most was his consistent return to 'remembering your core strengths.'
That could be your most popular, best-selling service or product, or it could be the passions, personality traits and skills you know you're strongest in. No matter how far Marc strayed, he always came back to his core strengths.
Wow.
How often do we stray from our own core strengths?
I do it all the time. Anyone with a smartphone or internet access can probably say the same. I started this sick week almost bored from forcing myself to rest and not knowing what to do. I didn't like anything on TV, so naturally I'd reach for my phone and scroll endlessly. After reading Unlabel, I thought about all the things I'm truly passionate about doing (besides working out.) Reading, writing, blogging, marketing. I should never be bored b/c there's always something new to read about, try, analyze and try again in those four fields alone. Return to your core strengths, Jess.
So while Unlabel was a great marketing / personal branding read overall, I thank Marc Ecko for renewing that fire within me. Sometimes it takes a little sickness and some quality reading time to re-anchor ourselves to what's truly important to us.
#100ThingsICRAVE w/ The CRAVE Company & Fresh Jess!
/Have you shared 100 things you CRAVE with Melody, CRAVE Company and its new Urban Campout community yet? You should! I'm sharing some of mine this week over on CRAVE's blog and newsletter.
I had the honor of joining Melody on a beta run of her Urban Campout retreat. What is Urban Campout, you ask? In a total revamp of CRAVE and its programs, Melody rolled out the popular Urban Campfire series - an annual conference supplemented throughout the year with smaller dinners and other get-togethers. Urban Campfires are events for women to share, be vulnerable and get inspired by other women. The big annual conference is a full day of TED-like 10-minute talks with group chat sessions in between.
Urban Campout spun off of Urban Campfire. It's the name of both the online community CRAVE is launching, and the in-city retreats Melody will be leading starting later this year. Urban Campout the online community is designed for us to continue cultivating the connections and relationships we've made at Urban Campfire and other events. Haven't been to an event? Not to worry! The online community is a great place to start.
#100ThingsICRAVE is an exercise we did at the Urban Campout retreat. While thinking of 100 things you CRAVE might sound daunting, it's really not that hard once you break it down into categories. In today's CRAVE newsletter, I'm sharing the things I CRAVE in personal style and fashion. Later on, you'll see my CRAVEings in health/wellness, connections and indulgences.
Follow along on CRAVE's newsletter list, blog and Pinterest board.
Thanks for having me CRAVE! Super honored to be part of this community and sharing my CRAVEs with all of you. If you have any questions, feel free to comment or tweet me!
Getting Lost in the Gates Foundation Visitor Center
/On the very busy corridor of 5th Ave. N. between Mercer and Harrison, nestled between the campus of one of the biggest non-profits in the world and a massive parking garage lies, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center. Often overlooked in a neighborhood full of destinations, (it's right across the street from EMP and Seattle Center; one block from Ride the Ducks and Teatro ZinZanni) the Gates Visitor Center is almost a hidden gem. Jacob and I spent the afternoon there to kick off our weekend, getting lost in the many stories to read and things to do.
Gates Visitor Center
Learning + doing. Two of my favorite things.
Gates Visitor Center
My (and probably everyone else's) favorite gallery
I feel like the Gates Visitor Center is overlooked not just because of its proximity to Seattle Center, but because people don't really know what to expect. It's hard to know what it is unless you've actually experienced it - and if you haven't yet, you really should! Think of the Gates Visitor Center as a museum, but instead of being inspired by art, you're being engaged through the very real stories told in the Gates Visitor Center's walls.
Gates Visitor Center
Closing in on pledges on the Share Your Cause trees
Gates Visitor Center
Getting the lowdown on tempered vaccine coolers, emergency shelter kits and more from Davida, an educator at the Gates Visitor Center.
What kinds of stories, you ask? Those of women in Africa who are learning how to make their water safe with chlorine dispenser stations. Young students whose lives have been directly impacted by changes in their schools and libraries. A running list of all the non-profits and organizations - large and small - who've received funding from the Gates Foundation (grantees.) The rich and deep history of the Gates family itself. Even stories and ideas from you!
Gates Visitor Center
All of the grants (all 7000 the foundation made prior to the Gates Visitor Center's opening.)
Gates Visitor Center
The shining star in the Gates Visitor Center is definitely the interactive exhibits. Unlike museums, you can see, touch and create as you learn about the various causes the Gates Foundation focuses on. Moving walls, rotating globes, pull levers, photo booths and touch screens galore are the real reason you'll easily lose a few hours in the Gates Visitor Center. From the rice bags lining the sidewalk outside to the Share Your Cause trees in the back - these interactive exhibits aren't just there to help entertain and maybe educate guests, but to show us how we can think about - and contribute - to these very same causes.
Gates Visitor Center
Rotate the globe for continental news and updates on various Foundation causes.
Gates Visitor Center
Cheesing for the photo booth
Gates Visitor Center
So meta!
Gates Visitor Center
Those buckets were so heavy. Now imagine carrying those across varying terrains for miles, full of water intended to hydrate and bathe you, your family and your livestock.
I love spending time in the Gates Visitor Center because it's a hub for ideas around how we can help our community. There's a specific placard there that says "Your community isn't just the neighborhood you live in. It's your city, state, region and the world." I'm totally paraphrasing that quote, but you get my drift. I love that. The Gates Visitor Center takes you out of your own 'bubble', so to speak, and lights the fire in your mind on how you can make an impact in the world around the causes that mean the most to you. So if you feel like 'getting lost in a museum' in a whole different way, pop into the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center sometime. I guarantee your mind and soul will leave spinning with ideas - in the very best way.
Gates Visitor Center
Gates Visitor Center
Thank you, Davida, for giving us a tour of the Gates Visitor Center! If you visit the Gates Visitor Center, definitely take a tour with Davida or a team member.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center is open Tuesdays - Saturdays, 10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. at 440 5th Ave. N. Street and garage parking are aplenty.
Register online for a group tour of the Gates Visitor Center.
Check out their events calendar for upcoming special programs.
Join the dialogue! Follow the Visitor Center on Twitter and Facebook.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center.
Bulldog Haven NW: Rosemary's Babies & More
/Under the watchful care of the kind folks over at Bulldog Haven NW, this sweet face gave birth to 8 little bulldog pups earlier this week. Rosemary herself was left on the side of the road, super pregnant, by whoever awful soul decided that was okay. A good samaritan found her and BHNW took over from there. Her pregnancy and subsequent care (she's back in her foster home now but on watch for low blood counts) has racked up some serious vet bills, and BHNW is currently seeking donations to help cover Rosemary's costs as well as ongoing care for the rest of the dogs getting some foster love.
Here's the latest round of bulldogs currently available for adoption from BHNW. I am really trying to help get these sweet faces into their "fur-ever" home! As regular Fresh Jess readers know, I am a big supporter of Bulldog Haven NW & PAWS, with one bulldog angel in the sky and one adopted from BHNW.
An up-to-date list of available dogs can be found at Bulldog Haven NW's adoption page. If you're interested in adopting one of these bullies, please look over their information carefully and fill out an application at BulldogHavenNW.org.
Not wanting to adopt, but still want to help out?
BHNW welcomes donations at anytime! Visit their homepage for benefit online auctions too.
For the most up-to-date info on BHNW, check their Facebook page!
Want to talk more about adopting a bulldog from someone who's been there? Email me at jess(at)freshjess.com!
A Week in the Life w/TRESemmé 7-Day Keratin Smooth (Sponsored)
/I like to squeeze every last drop out of a given day for lots of work and lots of fun. Unfortunately, that usually means not a lot of time in between work, errands and events for lengthy prep and maintenance. For a busy week, I need my hair to be as low-maintenance as possible, while still manageable and easy to style from day to night.
Enter the three-point punch of TRESemmé 7 Day Keratin Smooth. The new trio of products acts together as a non-damaging smoothing system that lasts through washes. What does that mean? The revolutionary Thermal Technology is activated by the heat of your flat iron, and helps lock out frizz for up to seven whole days. TRESemmé invited me to try their line during a week packed with places to be. Follow me for a typical week in the life of Fresh Jess!
My hair did indeed feel super smooth after washing with the shampoo and conditioner. A little bit of the 7 Day Heat Activated Treatment serum and some flat ironing, and my sleek shoulder-length bob was ready to go.
I started using the TRESemmé 7-Day Keratin Smooth over the weekend, which is when I usually get some quality Zumba, brunch and coffee date time in with some of my favorite people. This weekend was no different; my boyfriend and I spent a rainy Sunday cozied up at one of Seattle's most incredible cafe/bookstores, Ada's.
It wouldn't be a week in my life without a post-doggy daycare selfie with my bulldog. Spike's always trying to steal a kiss from mom! In this, he's actually trying to get a good sniff of my hair, which was smelling divine even after a couple of days out from washing. Still very little maintenance - just a short flat iron session with the 7 Day Heat Activated Treatment serum to freshen up.
Freelance life means I spend a ton of time in Seattle's various coffee shops. One of my favorites to hold meetings, plow through emails or get a furious writing session in is Storyville Coffee. Their friendliness and hot chocolate is unparalleled!
I spend a fair amount of time in my car or in an Uber during the week, jetting between meetings and events. Used my flat iron on this particular sunny day to play up my bangs a bit!
Last night, I attended the Sosh app's Seattle launch party. It was a Campfire Social theme with a private acoustic session by Seattle's own Allen Stone. I decked out in some plaid, leather and a camo jacket to celebrate the night with friends new and old. My hair got a little fresher too, with some 7 Day Heat Activated Treatment serum plus curling and flat iron action for a fuller 'do.
Thanks TRESemmé!
TRESemmé is a salon-quality line of care & styling products that achieves the right balance between salon style and savvy spending in 2014. TRESemmé will INSPIRE SSS’s with beautiful hair and GUIDE them with stylist how-to’s using our cutting edge products on how to achieve the latest styles…from the CATWALK, the RED CARPET, HOLLYWOOD, and the STREETS of the most stylish cities… making their daily transformations easy, with amazing results every time.
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Tresemmé via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Tresemmé.
The Big Climb is Coming! Support Us?
/It's that time of year again! I'm doing The Big Climb up Columbia Tower with my family on Sunday, March 23rd. Won't you join us in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with a sweet donation?
The Big Climb is 69 flights of stairs, 1311 steps, and 788 feet of vertical elevation up the Columbia Tower - the tallest skyscraper in downtown Seattle. I did the climb for the first time last year and though it was a painful, sweaty, crowded experience, it's nothing compared to what blood cancer patients endure in their fight.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The mission of LLS is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Every day, more than 347 LLS sponsored researchers come closer to the goal of finding a cure for leukemia and related blood cancers. Locally, LLS funds 7 researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and University of Washington Medical Center. Your support and commitment to the mission of LLS enables us to continue this important work of saving lives and aids us in our ability to reach patients in our community.
I'm proud to be climbing again this year and look forward to helping raise even more to fund the efforts of the LLS.
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Thank you so much for your support!
Show Up!
/I write about "showing up" every year, usually right after I've read Bill Gates Sr.'s Showing Up for Life.
Here's last year's, which is so good I almost just sent around the link to it instead of writing this! I haven't read the book yet in the 2014, but the concept came up in so many ways in my life just this week I couldn't resist writing about it again. Simply put, when we 'show up', we move towards success. 'Success' is purposefully ambiguous in this sense - it means and looks different to everyone and in different situations. Showing up seems like such a simple, almost novel thing that should naturally be instilled in our lives - and yet it's the very thing that sets apart the hustlers from the pack.
We pay a lot of lip service to the things we want to do in life: Get fit. Eat healthier. Travel the world. Not be afraid of handling our finances. Blog regularly. Now think about what most of us are actually doing with the majority of our time. Working, right? If you're anything like me (the self-proclaimed captain of Team Naptime), sleeping takes up its righteous chunk out of your day too. When we're working and sleeping all the time, it's easy to forget to show up for the things that truly make us come alive. They're the projects that get put on the backburner 'for when you're not as busy; the friends and family you'll call eventually; the run you'll go on when it's not raining. You feel me?
Image via Lifehack
I've blogged A LOT about my transition to a healthier lifestyle. I'm over a year into it and it still isn't smooth sailing. Nothing that's worth it ever is, right? No matter how long it's been since I worked out or had a smoothie, I still show up. You think I like getting up at 5:30a.m. every morning for a workout? That voice inside my head that's clawing for excuses to stay in bed is so seductive, but I love the feelings that come from completing that workout I'm getting up for even more. Having the rest of my day to everything else in my life. The adrenaline that powers me through my morning. The fact I'm up and about so early. I'll show up for all that.
Sometimes I'll hear the phrase, "How've you been? Looks like you're everywhere at once!" when I see someone I haven't seen in awhile. Man, how I wish that was really the case. I still do my best to only commit to events, blog post coverage and things that I truly can show up for. If I can't come to the event or don't have the time to write a blog post that does your product/service/event justice, I won't commit to it. It's not really showing up if you're half-assing or doing it sloppy. The ability to say 'no' is a skill I'm always sharpening, but in doing so, I know that I'm always putting quality stuff up here on Fresh Jess, and I also know that I'm not overexerting myself.
Show up to support the friends, causes and brands you care about - but also show up for yourself and make sure you're taking the time to slow down, reflect and take care of yourself. I'll leave you with a couple of things. First, a highlight reel featuring Ultimate Fighting Championship's marquee lady fighter, Ronda Rousey. She's been the face of a new leaf the UFC's turned over (allowing women to fight), and I so admire her hard work and determination. Ronda shows up. Looking forward to seeing her fight tonight!
Do yourself 100 and show up for a healthy bod and lifestyle!
You're Invited! Sassoon Seattle 5th Anniversary (+ Blogger Event Recap)
/Sassoon Seattle invited me to host a night at the salon for fellow Seattle bloggers. It was basically like having a girls' night out at the coolest salon in the city! Special thanks to my favorites, Trophy Cupcakes, Skoah and Sarah Lovrien for being part of the night as well. Check out Sarah's photos from our night, my personal loyalty to Sassoon, and details on their fifth anniversary party next Tuesday below. You'll want to attend the party for some truly amazing giveaways!
Classic Rounded silk shirt c/o Everlane / Zara heels / Topshop 'Joni' high-waisted jean (on sale!) / vintage Dior belt / Nike FuelBand
Edward prepping Alexis for her blowout
Thanks again, Trophy and skoah! Our special treats for the night.
I am admittedly low-maintenance when it comes to my hair routine. My mane is thick and grows exponentially fast. I hate putting tons of product in it, and it's often up in a top bun thanks to workouts and just having it out of my face. Basically, I like it to look amazing without having to actually do too much to it. Impossible? Not at all, thanks to the magic hands and shears at Sassoon Seattle.
Alix getting the skoah makeup treatment
Gluten-free Cherry Jubilee! DIVINE
Hey Kate!
Back when I worked at the Seattle Chamber of Commerce, my colleagues and I were invited to come try out our new neighbor, Sassoon. It was the first and remains the only presence the legendary house of hair has in the Pacific Northwest, and I was so impressed by Todd, Sassoon Seattle's former salon director, that I have stayed pretty loyal to the salon in its five years.
skoah makeup
I'll occasionally try other salons out there just to see what it's like - mostly so I can say what I'm about to say in full confidence. Sassoon is the best in the city. Their attention to detail and shape is far and above anything else I've seen in the city. Their stylists are busy not only with loyal followings, but in teaching new and upcoming stylists here in the city as well. They are always down to give back to the community however they can, most recently hosting a Valentine's Day makeover for a local couple. Since I only get my hair cut a handful of times a year, and want to stay low-maintenance at that, I always head back to Sassoon Seattle for a haircut and style with staying power. Their staff is always so warm, friendly and accessible; which is hard to say for a lot of other salons who try to be as hip and stylish as the Sassoon Seattle team seems to exude so effortlessly.
Hi Darcy!
Before...
LOOK AT ALL THIS BEAUTY!
Top: Chanel, Seattle Fashion Blogger / Andrea, SkinnyPurse / Alix, AlixRose
Middle: Kate, All Things Kate / yours truly / Alexis, StyleLogical
Bottom: Darcy, Styled Seattle / Sydney, Seattle Boutique Blogspot / Ilse, The Ultimate Makeup
I didn't realize I'd cut so much off until others said so! Haha. I'm exploring different styles for this new shoulder-length 'do, and so far am loving both the sleek and tousled looks.
Thanks again to
,
,
, and
for making the night spectacular. Peep even more photos on the
, and on Sassoon's
,
and
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Inside Zara Seattle (Open Tomorrow, 2/13!)
/SEATTLE, REJOICE! Zara has finally landed in the Emerald City, right in the heart of downtown Seattle at Westlake Mall. The 49th U.S. Zara location opens its doors to the public tomorrow morning, satiating the shopping palate of so many Pacific Northwesterners who've waited patiently for years to get one of our own (me included.) Zara Seattle is 8200 square feet of pure, unadulterated, amazing fast fashion for women, men and kids alike. Fitting right in with many PNW businesses, sustainability is a priority at Zara, with environmentally-friendly fixtures and efficient systems that cut electricity usage by 30% and water consumption by 50%.
Sarah Lovrien and I teamed up for this morning's press preview to give Fresh Jess readers a unique look into the store. Black and white, stark lines and lots of drama run prevalent in Zara's current product offering, so we thought it'd be fun to apply the same thought in these preview photos. Enjoy, and happy shopping!
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Inditex (Zara's parent company) Jesús Echevarría giving insight on Zara's business model and their ability to turn out new product from concept to delivery in 48 hours. Insane!
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
Zara Seattle
All photos credit Sarah Lovrien. For portfolio & booking, visit SarahLovrien.com.
Strength, Gratitude & Kanye
/Today's the 10th anniversary of Kanye West's breakout album, The College Dropout. I can't remember where along the line I became such a big Kanye fan. I knew Kanye was behind a lot of tracks I loved by Jay-Z, Alicia Keys and other artists, and I appreciated his hustle and determination right out the gate. I'm still impressed his first single, 'Through the Wire' was recorded after his fateful car accident that left him with a bloated face and wired jaw. I loved TCD (it's that album that reminds me of my college days. No dropout ;P) and every album he's put out after that, no matter how 'weird' or 'different' it is.
Kanye's tweets on the 10th anniversary of The College Dropout. You have to read them backwards because Twitter.
His outspokenness and non-music-related ambitions have made him an easy target for backlash and negativity on the interwebz, and so somewhere along the line, this Kanye fan also became a Kanye defender. For the record, I know a lot of people automatically wrote him off after that whole Taylor Swift debacle. I also have zero interest in Taylor Swift and if I had the opportunity, I'd tell the world Beyonce deserved Best Video too.
Kanye wears his heart and mind on his sleeve. He also happens to be under that Hollywood microscope, whether he likes it or not. That's what happens when you fall in love with fashion and with a Kardashian. I hate that people judge him for what happens outside of the studio, not for what he creates inside of it. I hate that people judge him so freely for the things we're all looking to express ourselves. Passion. Love. Success. Family. Pride. Strength. Confidence. And yes, humility.
What I see in Kanye is a dude from Chicago who has never wavered from his hustle and his passion for music. Who loves his mom and carries her like an illuminating torch everywhere he goes. Who's found love and is starting a family with the family he never got to have growing up - amidst all of his hard work and personal growth. He's like that one outspoken friend who gets mad riled when the topic of conversation turns to something he feels strongly about - and who'll let you know exactly how he feels. Sometimes you can't stand listening to his opinions, but you are supremely grateful there's someone in your life who's confident, strong and vulnerable enough to put himself and his craft out there. He remains an inspiration for me. It's not easy to put your face, name and everything into a blog and social media presence with grace, class and persistence despite the naysayers. It's not for everyone, and yet everyone will always have an opinion on those bold enough to pursue it.
It's real easy for people to hide behind a computer and lay it out on a celebrity like Kanye - but you won't ever see them being anywhere near as real as Kanye's kept it all his life. People are too scared to put their true selves out there, and so it's easy to make fun or bash someone who is. Every time Kanye is in the media nowadays, I'm reminded of how quickly people can spew out negativity about someone they don't know - and how much I hate them for it. I always gotta step back and remember gratitude.
Instead of focusing on people I'd never want to be in a car listening to the same song with - I'm thankful Kanye stays on his grind and produces music I want to hear. I'm grateful Kanye's setting an example to always speak your mind and put your heart out there, even if it seems the entire world can't stand it. Don't ever let the haters get to you. The more you find success, and love, and the things you make you happy - the more people will have an opinion about it. Misery loves company, but that doesn't mean you have to accept their invitation to join them.
Kanye, keep doing your thing and I will keep being thankful someone like you is out there, and grateful you're in my life in some way.
"I've played the underdog my whole career."
Super Bowl XLVIII Champions Seattle Seahawks!
/Like many of my fellow Seattleites, I'm writing this with a sore throat, bloodshot eyes and delirious exhaustion from watching our Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII last night. I didn't partake in any drinking or #HowSeattleRiots gatherings (click on that hashtag BTW. So funny!), but I did my fair share of screaming, jumping up and down, hugging my family members, and pacing around the house. I didn't want to go to bed last night, and shot right up less than five hours later. Turns out the first Super Bowl win in franchise history is better than Christmas and my birthday COMBINED!
I don't need to relay the sad plight of the tortured Seattle sports fan here. History and the lack of love and attention from national media will tell you all you need to know. That perpetual heartbreak we've felt in this city from close calls and "not quite"s from the Sonics, Mariners, Seahawks and Sounders alike is one that, although painful, is something we've grown to live with. I have vivid memories of fogging my glasses up (LOL) from sobbing after the Sonics lost to the Nuggets in the first round of the '93-'94 playoffs.
Image via Nike
So forgive us for basking in our moment - because we will, for weeks to come. Finally, tears of joy and elation! Our boys not only played in the Super Bowl, but dominated a team that was supposed to trounce them. As the underdogs! Who would've thought that a team with 21/53 undrafted or unsigned players would make it to the top? They did, and we did too. It's so weird how much the national media played up the other team's everything and doubted the Seahawks' everything at the same time. It was almost enough for me to have some anxious doubt, but no matter what, the confident anxiety won out. The nation got a taste of just how good our team is when every piece of the puzzle comes together and goes off without a hitch. Young, hungry, with everything to prove and nothing to lose. I cannot be any prouder for this team.
I watched this Super Bowl with my big ol' Filipino family, and there's nowhere else I would've rather been. This morning, since I couldn't sleep anyway, I got up and drove out to get my Super Bowl Champions tee and commemorative newspapers. I'll be soaking up all the articles I can about the mighty 2013 Seahawks squad, and all of the excitement (parade!) to come this week. Probably the sweetest thing in all of this is that this is only the beginning. Russell Wilson and most of his squad are in their twenties. They have so much ahead of them...maybe even a dynasty in the works!
THE SEAHAWKS ARE SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!! GO HAWKS!!!
Fresh Style: Seahawks Super Bowl XLVIII Edition
/Whatever happens today, this NFL season has been especially magical in the city of Seattle and all Seahawks fans. A week ago, Sarah Lovrien and I decided to collaborate on a Super Bowl weekend style shoot. One football field, four outfits and less than 24 hours later, here's our final product. For me, this shoot was just one more way to show my civic Seahawks pride in a style that's all my own. You saw my everyday looks on Evening Magazine, and this is my take on more fashion-y ensembles to take far beyond the tailgate. Sarah captured a few different aspects of my life in this one - the glam, the Jem (truly outrageous), a little boho (aka thrown together like "Let's see if this works") and the fitness. This shoot is such a testament to Sarah's impeccable photographic eye, distinct aesthetic, attention to detail and texture, and her unyielding work ethic (she had these out to me at 6:00a.m. this morning!)
Thank you to the entire Seahawks organization for bringing this city together in a way we've never seen before. You can literally feel the energy bouncing off the walls and in each passerby's smile. Thank you for allowing us 12s to express our love, gratitude and support of you in our own, individual way.
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Christy's wool hat / vintage coat / Richard Sherman 'You Mad Bro?' tee / One Teaspoon distressed boyfriend jeans
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Shearling drape jacket (similar) / Seahawks classic logo v-neck tee / Kimchi & Blue booties (similar) / Alive & Well beanie / vintage maxi skirt
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Vintage coat & hat / AllSaints sequined skirt / Homefield Sporting Co. sweatshirt / Zara booties
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Fresh Jess-Seahawks Style-Sarah Lovrien
Russell Wilson jersey / Casual Industrees hoodie / Artlete 'L.O.B.' tee / Nike running capris / Nike Pegasus+ 30
Peep more shoot photos on my Facebook page and Instagram.)
Also peep SarahLovrien.com for your next shoot!
GO HAWKS!!!
Fresh Reads: Seahawks Edition
/I can't get enough of all the Seahawks media coverage post NFC championship and leading up to the Super Bowl. I'm a voracious reader and would have to say that 85% of all the articles I've read these past two week have been about the Seahawks in some way, shape or form. I'm learning so much about this team and the individual talents that make it up, and loving them that much more after each read. Oh my God, there's so much to sift through, but I've rounded up some of my favorites here. If you've got some time on this fine Saturday, kick back and learn why we love our boys like we do.
ESPN's "The adoration of Russell Wilson" captures perfectly how I (and many other Seattleites) feel about our QB. I'm so proud this human being is the face of our team and I pray to God Niketown Seattle doesn't put him on top of their store building, thus cursing our city by driving him away eventually.
This nerd loved this breakdown on USA Today of Richard Sherman's life, infographic-style. They forgot to mention all of the stats he's #1 in this season though :/. The media attention around Sherman after the NFC Championship was insane and filled with so much hate and negativity. I loved reading the commentary around what the internet's reaction to Richard Sherman teaches us about ourselves, especially from Sally Jenkins at The Washington Post and Rembert Browne at Grantland.
The Legion of Boom waxing poetic on their bond:
Earl Thomas will be wearing these extremely fly Jordan cleats on Sunday. I'm not a big Jordan but these are sick! Not only is dude mad stylish, he's an excellent writer too. Check out his Area 29 blog on EarlThomas.com, with his recent post on thoughts after the NFC Championship game.
Doug Baldwin might be my favorite undercover firecracker on a team of undercover firecrackers. I mean, he's part Filipino (PILIPINOS!) but he also wears that chip ('boulder') on his shoulder proudly. He's been on a tear ever since he went undrafted, picked up by the Seahawks in 2011. Now he's one of our brightest stars. Don't call him a pedestrian!
Wanna know how I know you're a Seattle nerd? When you sport Google Glass at Media Day. Peep Golden Tate's GG experience over at Bleacher Report.
Marshawn Lynch pretty much dominated this week's coverage with his lack of interest in being involved with the media in any way, shape or form. Here's his mom talks raising Beast Mode & keeping it real with The Seattle Times. She reminds me a lot of my mama!
A couple of interviews Marshawn obviously enjoyed: talking candy with NFL Japan, and this amazing segment for SportScience:
Let's end this post with a remix of Marshawn's Media Day interview with Deion Sanders, featuring Geo from Blue Scholars:
GO HAWKS!!!
Fresh Picks: Super Bowl Weekend in Seattle
/Happy Super Bowl weekend! Some of my favorite Seattle businesses have some fun stuff going on for the 12th Man right now, so put your Seahawks gear on and head out to one of them before the big game to get you even more hype for our boys!
Go Beast Mode on that Lil Woody's 12th Man burger:
Lil Woodys 12th Man burger
Image via Lil Woody's Facebook page
Get your nails did with a Gene Juarez fanicure, makeup and hair ties, available at all Gene Juarez locations.
Gene Juarez fanicure
Seahawk French Fanicure ($40 regular - $53 shellac): Traditional French polish utilizing Seahawk colors with a white accent between green and blue.
Image via Gene Juarez.
Gene Juarez fanicure
Seahawk Ombre Fanicure: Traditional polish fade of colors using Seahawk colors. Available in glitter (shellac) ($60) or basic polish ($40).
Image via Gene Juarez.
Gene Juarez fanicure
Seahawk Accent Fanicure: Solid nails with either glitter (shellac) or no glitter. Options include: alternate green and blue, all blue with one green accent, or all green with one blue accent. (Prices vary due to shellac or glitter.)
Image via Gene Juarez.
Gene Juarez Hawk hair ties
Hawk hair ties: Ponytail holders from "Love Me Knot" are fabulous, hair-friendly and chic knotted elastics. $12
Image via Gene Juarez.
Gene Juarez Seahawks eye makeup
Eye makeup: Mirabella and Gene Juarez have teamed up to select eye shadow inspired by the Seahawks. Get a "All about eyes" service ($30) or purchase your own shade ($10 each)
Image via Gene Juarez.
Stock up on some Kukuruza Beast Corn, available at all locations & online. ($13/gallon)
Sweeten things up with
Trophy Cupcakes' Super Bowl cupcakes:
Trophy Cupcakes Super Bowl XLVIII Cupcakes
Image via Trophy Cupcakes Instagram
$4.50 each/ $44.50 dozen. Available at all Trophy Cupcakes locations or call 206-632-7020 ext 1 to order.
Plan the drinking game you'll have with your Hilliard 12th Can Pale Ale:
Hilliard's 12 Pale Ale
'The 12th Can' has less alcohol content than many craft beers allowing consumers to enjoy it before, during and after the game. Brewed with Cascade Hops ,along with Maris Otter and Crystal Malts, the beer has an unmistakably Northwest flavor, and as Hilliard's says, it "pairs well with victory." I HEARD THAT! Hillard's 'The 12th Can' pale ale is sold in 12-packs of 16-ounce tallboy cans for $20 per pack and can be found throughout the Pacific Northwest or at HilliardsBeer.com.
Also, peep Visit Seattle, Fresh Picked Seattle and Yay Today for their Seahawks / Super Bowl picks around the city. Sarah Lovrien and I have something fun coming for you this weekend. The blue & green party don't stop!
GO HAWKS!!!
