yes and yes

Mini Travel Guide: Bolivia

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Fri, 25 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many Mini Travel Guides, in which we are introduced to the best-ofs of any given country. This guide comes to us via Cassandra a graphic designer and photographer living in Portland, Oregon. She spent the summer of 2011 backpacking through Bolivia, choking down llama steaks with a smile.

Bolivia is a country that will literally take your breath away. This is partially due to the altitude (Potosi is the highest city in the world at 13,420 feet), but also because of the magnificent landscapes. I spent the summer of 2011 backpacking through this vast country the size of California and Texas combined. It was not easy, but the trouble was worth every second. For a well prepared traveler with patience and flexibility, Bolivia will provide unforgettable moments of absolute beauty and mental clarity.

Must Go
Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni)
The largest salt flats in the world at 4,086 square miles. Water covers the salt during the rainy season, creating a dream world where the sky is indistinguishable from the ground. In the middle of it all lies an ancient island, covered with cacti and fossilized coral reef. Yes, it is out of the way, freezing cold and swarming with tourists. Despite all of this, it is an incredible place. Please do not miss it!

Tarabuco Market
Like most everything worthwhile in Bolivia, this market takes a bit of effort to get to. A couple hours outside of Sucre, high in the mountains, Tarabuco has authentic weavings, carvings, and a very strange assortment of hats (alpaca fur ushankas?). A few streets behind the main market, people from the surrounding villages trade and sell everyday items that aren't geared towards tourists. If you value your life, don't wait until the market is almost over to hop in a collectivo. Everyone else will be leaving too, and the collectivo drivers will not say no to a fare. They will also not use the brakes.

Sucre
A beautiful, mild weathered and clean town with many excellent schools to learn Spanish. The public pay phones are in the shapes of dinosaurs!

La Paz
This city is like New York on acid. Teenagers dressed as zebras help you cross the street, indigenous women wearing full skirts work on construction gangs and have wrestling matches, and masked men offer to shine your shoes at every corner.

Madidi National Park
Go to Madidi for a completely wild, untamed jungle experience. There are many tour companies of varying degrees of quality competing for business all over Rurrenabaque. Chalalan Ecolodge is one of the oldest and most well known, operated by the indigenous community who directly benefit from tourism dollars.

Must do
Lucha Libre
Cholita wrestlers in La Paz. It only happens on certain days (Sundays when I was there), so plan ahead for tickets!

Biocentro Guembe
a wildlife refuge outside of Santa Cruz. It as a huge aviary, a butterfly dome, and ten natural swimming pools.

Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) Tour
If you're not driving a 4x4, you will need to sign up for a tour of the Salt Flats once you get into Uyuni. Research the companies carefully, there are many that don't take safety precautions. Bring more clothes than you think you will need, because it will be VERY cold and windy! Oh, and unless you love llama steak, make sure to bring some Clif bars.

Must eat
Salteñas
Little meat filled pies you can get anywhere off the street in La Paz and other cities. A delicious portable lunch or dinner!

Fresh squeezed juice
Stop by one of the street vendors pushing their fruit around and get a cup of the most delicious juice you have ever tasted. In Sucre's main market, the juice ladies will blend up anything you can think of and keep refilling your glass. They also make some pretty delicious fruit salads!

Cultural Tip
Learning even a little bit of Spanish will go a long way in Bolivia. Cities and other points of interest are located all over the country and you will be traveling through remote regions where English is rare and basic at best. Having some knowledge of the language will endear you to the locals and make life a lot easier.

Travel on the cheap
Don't be afraid to take the collectivos instead of taxis in the big cities, even if you don't see other tourists doing it. They are a ridiculously cheap way to quickly get from one side of town to the other, especially in La Paz where you will run out of breath after three blocks. The front passenger will yell out the streets on their route, the same streets that are posted in the front window. Just listen for your street, wave them down and hop in fast (it's not unusual for the van to only slow down instead of stop).

Thanks so much for sharing, Cassandra! Do you guys have any Bolivian travel tips to share?

I bet you can't wait to quit your job and travel the world now, eh? Luckily, I've got some cheep-o travel ebooks that tell you how.

On Privacy, Honesty, Other Bloggers, and Oversharing

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is an unflattering photo of me holding a tiny dog. I actually like this dog significantly more than the photo suggests.

Friends. Yesterday I cheekily bribed you into sharing your opinions of my blog in exchange for an ebook. I bet you think that ebook is awesome (rather, I hope you did) but I'd venture the guess that I actually came out ahead in this deal.

I found out that apparently everybody misses Dear Dude and Those List Posts (noted!) and more than that, the resounding cry was:

1) "Why are you you letting so many other people write for you?"
and
2) "We like you! Don't be so shy! Why don't you write more about yourself?"

Guys, here are my (many and varied) deals.

* I think being a good conversationalist is one of The Most Important Things Ever. And in my mind, being a good conversationalist means asking people questions about themselves, talking about things that interest them, and resisting the urge to dominate the discussion with my Opinions About Cat Videos. On some level, I guess I've applied this to Yes and Yes. When people ask me what I blog about, I usually mutter for a few seconds and then say it's more of an online magazine than a personal blog.

* We've all encountered who bloggers talk about themselves too much. And who do it poorly. You know what it sounds like. Run downs of trips to Target. Overly detailed descriptions of weekend brunches with their friends we don't know. Huge lists of the books they're reading and the TV shows they watch. OMG photos of their lattes with hearts drawn in the foam! I live in fear of being that blogger.

* Sometime I feel weird that 10,000+ people read the things I write. When I meet people for the first time and they say "Oh! Aren't you Yes and Yes? I read your blog!" and then I blush and say "Gosh!" and think "Oh God. Have they read the post where I wrote a haiku about getting a Brazilian? Are they aware of my deeply dorky affinity for anthropomorphism?" And I made an active choice to put that information out there. And I stand by it! But sometimes I feel weird about it.

* When you put something on the internet, it lives forever. I mean, unless you delete it. When I started this blog four years ago, I lived with my then-boyfriend and mentioned him regularly on the blog. We went through an awful-ish break up which spawned one of my most popular posts. Of course, now that's ancient history and we've both moved on to partners who are much better matches for each of us. But I feel (perhaps ridiculously) that that break up Was A Big Deal. And I think I feel that way partially because I told you guys about it. And sometimes when tough things happen, you want to forget them as soon as possible. And if everyone keeps talking about it, it's a lot harder to do that.

* I have witnessed first hand the power of The Mean Internets. I very, very rarely receive negative comments on Yes and Yes. And if I do, they're usually in the form of "Uh, what's up typo?" (which is more helpful than negative.) However. Close blogger friends of mine have been targeted by Get Off My Internets. And receive hate emails. Like, in their inbox! Like, a stranger took the time to find their contact information and compose a hateful email and send it! Who does that?

So, as a defense mechanism of sorts, I started writing fewer and fewer personal posts. Because who cares if someone leaves a mean comment on a post about animals in buckets? But if someone leaves a horrible comment when I talk about my relationship with organized religion? Well, now my day is ruined and I've temporarily lost faith in humanity.

* I'm really busy. And I like to spread the gospel of other awesome writers and bloggers. As you guys probably know, in addition to Yes and Yes, I ghost write/edit/consult/content manage for other blogs and people. And I have a crazy busy social life, a handsome dude, a cat, and another six week trip on the horizon. Also: whenever I find a blog or a writer or an Etsy shop that I feel the world needs to know about, I Have To Tell You About It. And usually that takes the form of guest posts from said awesome people. Because I simply don't have time or energy to create new content seven days a week, 365 days a year - but I want you to have access to new content seven days a week, 365 days a year. Conundrum. While I am a Virgo and an eldest child of Germanic heritage, I'm not quite that productive.

So that, dear readers, is the deal with that. I can't thank you enough for all of your kind, helpful, funny insight and for making Yes and Yes part of your day. The list posts are coming back, I've got a new Dear Dude writer on the line and I'll try to stop being The Internet's Shyest Blogger and actually tell you more about myself and what I think.

I will not, however, be posting photos of my lattes.

How To Do 10 Things (at least a little) Better! And A Short Survey!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Wed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Here’s what inside this (free!) ebook!

1. How To Travel Cheaply
2. How To Do What You Say You’re Going To Do
3. How To Thrift Like A Ninja
4. How To Live A Good Life On A Small Budget
5. How To Get Over A Breakup
6. How To Become A Non-Annoying Vegetarian
7. How To Give Great Gifts
8. How To Hate Your Commute Less
9. How To Increase Your Attention Span
10. How To Become A Morning Person
<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Beating Self-Employment Burnout

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Tue, 22 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Laura Nelli founded her accessories line Nelle in 2004. She started with a sewing machine from a second hand store and sewing book from the library. Since then, it’s been featured in InStyle Weddings, Brides, Redbook, “O” The Oprah Magazine, and Martha Stewart Weddings. Amazing, right?!

For the first five years that I ran Nelle, I continued to work full time. I often say that I sacrificed my 20’s to Nelle, and there have definitely been times when I felt like a candle burning at both ends. The truth is, you’re bound to burn out when working 80+ hours a week.

Over the years, friends and peers have offered up a tips to keep me from going off the deep end. I am happy to say that following their advice has kept me perched on the edge of the diving board.

Have start up cash
I started my business with $10, and let me tell you, always having to generate revenue to grow your business, fill orders, and pay the bills leaves little time for relaxation. When a friend asks you to go for a walk, it is very hard to turn off the voice in your head that says,
“Girl’s gotta make rent.”

Make time for play
If you were wise and started your business with a decent chunk of cash in the bank, it will be easier to take time off from your business and reconnect with yourself and the things you enjoy. Make time for you, even if it means that you don’t accomplish all of your business goals for the day. If you’re relaxed and happy, your business will only get better!

Understand that your business is a living thing
Just like you, your business is alive. Sometimes it will be wildly successful, other times it will fall flat. Remember that Rome wasn’t built in day and that it’s okay for your business to ebb and flow. You don’t have to always be growing and expanding your business.

Take advantage of the slow times
When your business has slowed, reinvest in yourself and the company. This means sleep in a little, go out to eat a bit, and analyze your businesses current state of affairs. You’ll find that your relaxed mind will discover new growth opportunities that will recharge your business.

For those of you working multiple jobs or working for yourself - how do you avoid burnout?

image for sale here

True Story: I Volunteer On A Rape Crisis Line

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many True Story interviews in which we talk to people who have experienced interesting/amazing/challenging things. This is the story of Rebecca and her work at a rape crisis volunteer.

Tell us a bit about yourself!
I’m a 26-year-old Iowan who works as a corporate communications writer (that’s a fancy way of saying I write brochure, publication and web copy). I am a crazy bibliophile who also happens to love trashy reality TV and writing fiction.

What led you to get involved in the rape crisis line?
When I was in college I wrote for my campus paper, and I did an interview with a student who volunteered with RVAP, and it always stuck in my mind. After graduating, I became more interested in feminism and volunteerism. And a little over a year ago, I challenged myself to do something that intimidated me, so I emailed RVAP about becoming an advocate.

What sort of training did you go through in order to volunteer there?
RVAP’s training program is a little over 30 hours long, spaced over eight meetings. Part of the training was lectures and discussions covering topics such as victim-blaming, post traumatic stress, suicidal thoughts, talking with significant others and loved ones of the survivors. Another big part was role playing. We’d take turns going off in pairs pretending to be a caller or an advocate. These role plays were important in making us feel comfortable handling calls. Once I did my first shift after training was over, it didn’t feel like a big scary leap. Instead it felt like a natural progression because we had practiced in role plays so much. Now that I’m an advocate, I attend regular monthly meetings and skill building sessions to go over any new topics and keep my skills sharp.

Can you tell us what an average shift is like?
I usually take calls on the weekends, because that works better with my schedule. Most shifts are about 8 hours long, and I’m given a cell phone to use. I have to stay at home during my shifts, so I can have privacy to talk to callers, but other than that I go about my regular life. I clean, read, sleep (with the cell phone next to me), watch horrible reality television and surf the Internet.

The number of calls varies from shift to shift, but as soon as the phone rings, I go into my office, shut the door and focus on the caller. If I ever have a question while on the line or need to process a difficult call, there’s always a staff backup waiting to talk with me. The women who work full-time for the organization are truly wonderful people and are always ready to help in any way they can.

What sorts of calls do you deal with?
We take confidentiality seriously, so I can’t talk about specific calls. But in general, calls can run the gamut from sexual harassment to sexual assault. Many of our calls are from survivors – whether it’s from someone who recently dealt with an incident or wants to process something from many years ago. We also have calls from friends and family members of survivors who want to process their own feelings or figure out how to be the most supportive they can be.

What do you say to help these people?
I was trained with the philosophy that the survivor knows how to help himself or herself heal. As an advocate, I’m just there to help facilitate that. So my role is to listen actively. I identify the feelings I hear the caller describing, and I ask questions that might help uncover ways to cope with those feelings. Each call is different, and I really take the lead from the caller.

Has your work with the crisis line affected your world view at all?
I was really ignorant about what a victim-blaming society we live in. I think this post really puts into perspective how we treat sexual assault survivors versus the survivors of other crimes. We like to tell ourselves that the person was drunk or wearing the wrong clothes and that’s why he or she was raped, because it makes us feel safe. It makes us believe that it couldn’t happen to us. That it only happens to people who make bad choices. And that’s just not true. It can happen to anyone. Any age, any gender, any sexuality. And it’s never the survivor’s fault.

A lot of my friends ask me if volunteering on the line is depressing. There are certainly calls that make me sad, but more often than not, I find the calls I take inspiring. The human spirit is incredibly resilient, as cliché as that sounds. I’m always impressed by how survivors are able to maintain their senses of humor and senses of self despite what they’ve experienced.

Is there anyone you think would NOT be a good fit for a volunteer position like this?
Anyone who holds sexist beliefs or is not culturally sensitive or unwilling to be nonjudgmental. It’s important not to press your own beliefs on a caller, because their life circumstances might not be the same as yours and the most important thing is for them is to do what’s the right choice for them.

What advice would you give to someone else who's interested in volunteering with a similar organization? This website is a good starting place to find volunteer opportunities in your area. Don’t be intimidated. These organizations need compassionate volunteers and if you’re even considering doing it, that means you’re probably a good fit.

As intimidated as I was to volunteer, I can say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. There is never a moment I’m volunteering where I doubt the importance of what I’m doing. And that’s a rare thing in life.

Have any of you guys volunteered doing something similar? Any questions for Rebecca?

image credit: feffas alves

Web Time Wasters

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sun, 20 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

print for sale here

How was your week, guys? I made new friends at a dinner party where I knew one person, caught up with my Crested Butte friends at Meritage, got my bi-monthly cheap, tacky pedicure, and watched my Gentleman Caller crawl through ice water and mud at Tough Mudder.

Enough about me! Links for you!
I wrote about must-have souvenirs and speaking Cajun for the Louisiana tourism board!

Would you ever chronicle you travels by tattoo?

Remember when I went to a Scientology "church"? This article about being a high ranking member in the church and then getting excommunicated from is FASCINATING.
In Scientology sales, we were taught to find a person’s “ruin” — whatever it was that was making a person’s life miserable and keeping them from achieving their goals. I could find anyone’s ruin in minutes — and in less than an hour, I’d have sold them thousands of dollars worth of Scientology services to handle it.

One of the Things I Would Like To Have Since I'm A Grown Up is a 'correspondence drawer' (re: drawer full of blank cards). I'd start with 15 of these cards.

Feijoa ice cream! (if you're not from Australasia, that probably doesn't make any sense to you.)

Apps for organization!

If you're married or in a long-term relationship (or want to be), this post is for you.
Love is action. Love is tolerance. Love is learning your partner's love language and then expressing love in a way that he can receive. Love is giving. Love is receiving. Love is plodding through the slow eddies of a relationship without jumping ship into another's churning rapids. Love is recognizing that it's not your partner's job to make you feel alive, fulfilled, or complete; that's your job

An exercise in not caring what people think.

A list of must-see documentaries!

Whoa. Best 30th birthday party ever?

As a vegetarian, I don't always get enough iron. Here's a great post on upping your iron intake naturally.

There's a lot of talk about the lack of diversity in the cast of HBO's Girls. Andrea talks about it here.
I strongly believe that if we want to see changes then we need to make the changes. Not from a soapbox behind our cubicles or work-desks, not from a letter to the editors and producers, not a Facebook status update, or a Twitter rant, or even a blog post. In order to control our image and contribute to what images are created we need to be physically there making decisions.

Whaaaat? Strawberry serrano pepper preserves?

Gah! A checklist stamp! You can just stamp it on anything and make it into a checklist!

Every day, one new photo and 35 words. Lovely.

If you're self-employed, you'll eventually encounter client who aren't a good fit. Here's how to nicely break up with a client lead.

Cute. A tumblr devoted to Minnesota-related gifs. (taking your friends tubing for the first time!)

My parents' house doesn't have high speed internet (!) and I feel like I'm losing my mind when I can't work or check email. This guy is removing himself from the internet for a year!
The moment I reached down and unplugged the ethernet cable from my computer, I felt like school was out for the summer, and the simultaneous relief and boredom that last bell brings.

Want To Write a Mini Travel Guide for Yes and Yes?

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sat, 19 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

In typical Type-A, try-hard fashion I'm already assembling the Yes and Yes editorial calendar for ... August. And I'm in the market for a few more Mini Travel Guide guest posters!

I'm particularly interested in:
* Finland
* Russia
* Mongolia
* Latvia
* Croatia
* Ghana
* Kenya
* Monaco

* Dubai
* Singapore
* Tonga

Or really, anywhere outside of Western Europe! I'm particularly interested in guest posters who are natives of these countries or have spent at least six months there.

So if you'd like to share your love for Romania/Chad/Nicaragua with the world and introduce yourself to Yes and Yes 10,000+ readers, drop me a line at sarah (at) yesandyes (dot) org! Here's a list of all the previous Mini Travel Guides so you can see which countries have already been covered.

photo for sale here.

When Hipsters Travel. Also: June Ad Space!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Fri, 18 May 2012 23:00:00 +0000

<p>&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;</p>

Oh, God. So painfully close to home. So, so hilariously and painfully close to home.

(Remember when I taught English to sex workers in Thailand?)

Anyway. Let's talk about you and your blog/shop/website and introducing it to the 10,000+ people who read this blog every day!

Sponsorships are available in one, two and three month packages with pricing discounts at two and three months. All 250 x 100 sponsors will be included in the mid-month sponsor introduction post and three month sponsors have the option of a giveaway, if they're interested.

Some facts about Yes and Yes?

Daily unique visitors: 3,200 - 3,500 a day

Page views: 150,000+ per month

Twitter followers: 3,030+

Facebook fans: 1,820+

Blogspot followers: 2,780+
Google Page Rank: 4
Google reader subscribers: 5,980+

You can now purchase ad space in the Yes and Yes twice monthly newsletter! The newsletter goes out to 2,200+ subscribers and it's opened 6 times (!) more frequently than most newsletters. If you bundle your newsletter ad with a blog ad, I'll be happy to give you a wee discount even.

Some of the nice things that previous sponsors have said about Yes and Yes?
Sponsoring Yes and Yes has been one of my most effective ways to advertise my coaching business. Each time I've advertised on Yes and Yes I have seen a spike in traffic and an increase in newsletter subscriptions. I can also attribute at least 4 new clients to my sponsorship of Yes and Yes. If you have a business or blog whose target audience is savvy 20- and 30-somethings then Yes and Yes is the perfect way to advertise to them. - Nailah Blades, Polka Dot Coaching

Do. it. now. Advertising on Yes and Yes was fantastic. I did a happy dance when my blog's daily page views quadrupled! Her readers are smart, funny and inspiring - everything you want from future friends. I will definitely advertise with Yes and Yes again. - Halley, A Life of Something New

Want to put together a sponsorship? Drop me a line at sarah (at) yesandyes(dot) org!

Real Life Style Icon: Catherine of 'Not Dressed As Lamb'

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Fri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many Real Life Style Icon interviews in which we ferret through the closets, minds, lives of super stylish bloggers. And then we trick them into being our friends. In other news, I want to dress like Catherine once I stop living out of a suitcase. Or learn how to walk in heels.

Name: Catherine Summers
Age: 39¾ - my blog was started on my 39th birthday as a one year countdown to my fortieth birthday.
Location: Devon, England (I’m originally from London though).
Online haunts: blog // pinterest // asos fashion finder

Three reasons that you're awesome:
If it’s not too big-headed to say…!

1. My lovely followers make me feel awesome. I love the fact that I’m inspiring them in the same way I’m inspired by all the amazingly stylish bloggers out there, who are ultimately the people responsible for improving my style no end. I love to get to know other bloggers and build friendships.

2. I would describe my style as eclectic, but erring towards Preppy with an Edge. Hopefully I'll always be wearing something a little surprising!

3. The most awesome comment I’ve had on my blog recently was a Sex and the City reference: she said my style looked like Charlotte had raided Carrie’s wardrobe - she summed up my ideal style perfectly! Any comparison with SATC is so flattering.

What are you wearing right now, as you type this?
A lot of bright colours and pattern: floral jeans layered with an embroidered navy dress, bright pink t-shirt and a pistachio green cardigan.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?
I had a mini splurge in the clothing section at my local supermarket: two sweaters – one with peach and salmon stripes, one ombre blue - and a printed scarf-style top in mint and peach. All super cheap but very on-trend.

What is the item of clothing you most covet at the moment?
I’m desperately trying to get hold of another pair of mint chinos I’d already bought about a month ago which were the perfect fit and colour. The first time I wore them, I dropped a bottle of orange nail polish which smashed and emptied the contents all up one leg. I was so upset I cried, as they were totally ruined! I’m having problems getting another pair in my size :(

Tell us about a favorite childhood memory about your clothes.
When I was 10, my then 19 year-old sister bought one of those piecrust collar Princess Diana blouses and I thought it was beautiful. Following this sudden desire for something fashionable, I had a fit at my poor mother because I thought I wasn't allowed to wear trendy clothes. This wasn't true of course – I just hadn't shown any interest in fashion (as opposed to dressing up) before. My dear sister went out and bought me an almost identical blouse… and it absolutely made my year. And cemented my love of fashion ;)

What is your best thrifting score?
I got three vintage dresses from one eBay seller recently – two 60s/70s maxis and a 80s fruit patterned day dress. I’m a demon on eBay – good luck anyone who chooses to bid against me! I’m still waiting for the weather to warm up to wear them.

Could you tell us your top three style tricks/DIYs?
1. Don’t be afraid to experiment: mix every colour and pattern under the sun (and break all the rules in the process).

2. Think of hair, make up and nails as accessories. I’ll always consider what hairstyle suits an outfit, and I try to co-ordinate my manicures with what I’m wearing.

3. Finally, to know for sure whether an outfit is working, always take a quick photo and study the photo, not your reflection in the mirror… you can’t be objective in the mirror for some reason. Before doing this, on several occasions I’d walked around all day wearing a particular outfit that I’ve then photographed for the blog, and only realized then that they looked dreadful. A quick photo first thing in the morning would have avoided that!

Thanks so much for sharing, Catherine!

Networking For Introverts

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Dear Sarah,
How do you network when you're an introvert who hates it? When I get several texts in a row after a long day I feel tempted to toss the phone in a nearby river. I am bad at answering emails and don't really know how to seem both sincere and businesslike. Seeing as networking and other social aspects of work are kind of necessary, what is someone like me to do? I like to hang out with friends and do social-type things a fair amount, it's just the whole being social-and-businesslike deal that throws me for a loop.
-No Clever Monicker

Oh, girl. I hear you. For a long time, the thought of networking made me roll my eyes so hard I'd incite migraines. In fact, a friend jokes that my business card should actually read "Don't talk to me." p.s. wouldn't that be hilarious? To talk pleasantly to someone for 20 minutes and then hand them that card?

But! Then I realized that:
a) networking is really just talking to people and making new friends, two skills at which I excel.
b) knowing lots of people = exponentially more business and career opportunities.

So, I decided to suck it up. And while I'm an extrovert, I'm probably 51% extroverted, 49% introverted. So I've got your back.

Here are my tricks for networking!

1) Realize that networking is really just making new friends
You don't have to introduce yourself by rattling off your professional skill set and where you work. Just talk to people the same way you would if you met them at your friend's barbecue. And if you don't like someone, you don't have to talk to them. If you don't like them, you're probably not going to want to work with them in any way, shape or form.

2) Be a helpful hooker-upper
View networking not in terms of what people can do for you, but what you can do for them. Who can you hook them up with? What advice can you give them? When you approach a situation with no expectations about what you're going to get out of it, you'll be a lot more relaxed. Also? It feels good to help people!

3) Stop worrying about seeming professional
I don't really think you need to worry too much about seeming professional. Underneath that business casual attire, everybody's just a person who checks Facebook too much and loves bad reality TV. Also: people appreciate candor. Of course, don't drop F-bombs everywhere and wax on about religion, but you needn't speak exclusively about "outside the box action items." At the last networking event I went to, my conversation topics included: the best thrift stores in St. Paul, the Tomboy Style blog, and Ukrainian wicker furniture. Seriously.

4) Give yourself a time frame/goal
If you really, really hate networking/meeting new people, give yourself a time frame or goal. "I only have to stay for an hour and then I can come home and watch Happy Endings." or "I just have to give out three business cards and then I can go watch that Katy Perry 3D movie by myself."

5) Don't burn yourself out
If you are a dyed in the wool, true blue introvert you need to know your limits. Meeting new people and networking are important. Maintaining your mental health is more important. Find a balance that works for you.

6) You totally, totally, totally have to return texts and emails
Like, really. 90% of success is doing what you say you're going to do. And when you fail to return an email or text (especially in a professional or networking situation) you've just marked yourself as unreliable. Just force yourself to do it.

How many of you are introverts? How do you go about networking?

Print for sale here

The Post-College Survival Kit! Now For Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Just in time for graduation and pre-summer, post-college life!

The Post-College Survival Kit! For $45 you get:

* 8 weeks of useful, engaging, helpful tips, info, and advice
* 30 worksheets that will help you whip your post-college life into shape
* Interviews with awesome, successful professionals who landed the jobs - and lives - they wanted
* 70% less post-graduation stress (okay, I made that up)

A few of the things we're covering!
* Internships: How To Get Over Being Relieved And Figure Out If It's Right
* Volunteering To Your Advantage
* Taming The Student Loan Beast: Loan Forgiveness Options
* Understanding Your Fancy Benefits Package
* Love At First Viewing: Finding Your Dream Apartment
* If It's Broke, Please Fix It: Dealing With Lame-O Landlords
* How To Live With Your Lover and Not Kill Them
* Funny, Smart, Cool: Creating A Great Group of Friends
* Dressing Professionally On A New Grad's Budget
* I Want To Get Married and He Doesn't!
Or you can check out the full syllabus here.

Nice things people have said about PCSK
Fantastic! I truly wish I had read this after college - it would have saved me so much time/money/stress - It'll steer you around bad debt, disrespectful flatmates, and love troubles!
- Halley G, 25

This is fabulous! Not only does it cover some of the stuff you always wanted to know, but were afraid to ask, it also touches on the things you never thought of, but should probably know.
- Kelsey G., 21

In a fun, easy-to-follow format this course helps you create realistic goals. Instead of stressing you out about challenging issues, the lessons make post-college life seem manageable and even something to look forward too!
- Cara G., 26

Ready to grow up without effing up?

Once you purchase the course, you'll receive an automated email with the links and passwords to download the course immediately. So watch your spam folder!

True Story: I Have Turner's Syndrome

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many True Story interviews in which we talk to people who have experienced interesting, challenging, amazing things. This is the story of Laurel and her Turner's Syndrome diagnosis.

Tell us a bit about yourself!
I'm 25 years old and newly married. I am a writer and a wannabe crafter. I am a bookworm and a proud nerd! I am currently trying to finish my degree in International Studies and Journalism - I may also end up doing something in social work. I have a blog that I enjoy writing for and I am always looking for new readers. I'm adventurous and obsessed with traveling! That is me in a small nutshell!

For those of us who don't know, could you explain Turner's syndrome?
Turners Syndrome is a genetic defect that occurs in about one and every 2,500 live female births. There is no known cause as of yet. Turner Syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal condition that exclusively affects girls and women. TS occurs when one of the two X chromosomes normally found in females is missing or incomplete. The syndrome is named after Dr. Henry Turner, who was among the first to describe the features in 1930.

The most common features include short stature and gonadal dysgenesis, although many organ systems and tissues may also be affected to a lesser or greater degree. The average adult height of a woman with Turner syndrome is 4’8" but growth hormone therapy can increase final adult height. Gonadal dysgensis can cause incomplete sexual development and ovarian failure and infertility.

How old were you when you were diagnosed?
I was diagnosed at birth- thankfully the doctor knew about it and recognized a few key things and decided to run some tests. I am very blessed as my biggest problem is that I cannot have kids. I have no heart problems and no kidney problems etc. I am ADD (though not officially diagnosed) but no learning disabilities that are sometimes common in Turner's girls. I graduated with a 3.75 from high school and maintained a 3.5 in college.

How is Turner's syndrome treated?
Hormone therapy is available and should be started around the age of puberty. For adult women IVF is available but only under serious supervision of a physician.

Does it affect your daily life?
It can. I do suffer from some social anxieties but in general my life is normal. When I was younger it did inhibit my dating life but that was only because I let it.

Are there any benefits to having Turners syndrome?
It has given me such a huge heart for adoption! It is my purpose in life to be able to give a child a home that might not otherwise have one.

What advice would you give to others who have a health diagnosis that makes them feel different?
I won't say it is easy. The constant struggle to fit in when all you want to do is feel normal. To that I say - What is normal? Who defines normal anyway? Who are we to be in a position to make ourselves feel inferior? Live your life - love freely and let go of fear. Stop trying so hard and just live life and enjoy all the blessings it offers.

As I said earlier I am very blessed. Not that there aren't constant struggles (for example I will always struggle with my weight, another commonality), but when I compare what I have with the rest of the world I can be nothing but grateful. In a world where different is weird and people are cruel I hope my story is proof that a positive attitude can get you through anything. I encourage people to educate themselves more and stop letting ignorance become fear and fear become violence. Turner Syndrome is not a well known disease and researchers are learning more everyday. Visit this website for more info!

Thanks so much for sharing! Do you guys have any questions for Laurel?

Web Time Wasters

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sun, 13 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

How was your week, guys? I watched some live music, spent an early Mother's Day in my tiny home town, and helped throw The World's Most Low-Key Baby Shower. I made a cheese ball that looked like a hedgehog!

Links! For you!

I've been fussing and painting and nesting like crazy. I'm in the process of painting the inside of my walk-in closet magenta (!) and I'd love to hang this in there. How awesomely over the top would that be? Very.

I do not belong to the cult of Apple, so I loved this post on great photo apps for Android phones.

It can be comforting to know that you're different - just like everybody else.
We may experience life in different ways, but there are five hallmark life moments that everyone human goes through. You think you are the only one who has ever experienced them, but I promise- you are not. I find more comfort in this idea of shared life moments than I find in a bottle of vodka. And that’s saying something.

Yes! Shake n' bake tofu.

Holy useful. How to get free shipping from Amazon when you're just a few dollars short.

Culturally respectful, truly innovative international development programs are hard to find. I'm really interested in this one.

A gorgeous rainbow walkway/art installation.

Alex Franzen is one of my favorite people, both online and off. Sometimes we meet for donuts and deep and meaningfuls. I loved this post: 27 ways to be an (even) better person and practically levitate with awesomery.

Fellow travelers, this is for you: how to incorporate souvenirs into your home decor. (I have a vintage photo of Fijian cannibal kings hanging in my closet. Really.)

A girl after my own heart: Lessons in Mediocrity: Ballet.

Useful! How to look foxy in a bathing suit, no starving or exercise required.

One of the major obstacles to overcome when buying an Investment Suit is that we would rather just skip wearing a bathing suit altogether than buying a nice one that makes us feel good. But that is a GIANT CONCESSION. A life concession, you all. Over a bathing suit! Don’t trade a great experience that requires a bathing suit to stay home and in your comfort zone. This is not living! Don’t hand over your power to a skimpy piece of spandex!

How to maintain long-distance friendships.

I am really, really coveting these earrings.

Years after everyone else, I'm finally getting into bikes. Here's a round up of where to buy cute bikes online.

I love seven layer dip (who doesn't?) but it's not particularly portable. Enter: seven layer dip roll ups!

I lived in Taiwan for a year and a half. This post about moving to Asia sure would have been handy.

Hope you had a great weekend!

Soothing Wanderlust! Tiny Dancers! Mixtapes!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sat, 12 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Overcast Saturday? Amuse yourself with funny/smart/adorable links from this month's sponsors!

Fave posts:
How to aggressively tackle your own passive-aggression //
How to do 'The Hunger Games' style // What to watch to soothe wanderlust
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The Genny // Neat // The Samira
Let's be friends!

f acebook // twitter // pinterest // youtube

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Dream pretty dream // What would the gypsy in me do? //

Realizing wonder in your life

Let's be friends!

facebook

Fave posts:
Tiny dancer // And more confessions // My friend Wren

Let's be friends!

etsy // twitter // pinterest // flickr

Fave posts:
On losing someone to addiction // The mixtape //
Best albums of 2011
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facebook // twitter // pinterest // last fm // tumblr

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Mini Travel Guide: Denmark

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This one of many Mini Travel Guides, in which we dip our toes into international travel via the best-ofs a given country. This guide comes to us via Alexandra!

I first flew to Denmark when I was sixteen. I knew nothing about the country or the language (other than how to say “I have to pee” – “Jeg skal tisse”). Regardless, I would spend the next year living in their second largest city, Aarhus as an exchange student.

Between the gorgeous architecture and rolling scenery, the cities overflowing with bicyclists, the quaint traditions, and the funny, sweet, impeccably dressed Danes themselves – I fell in love with this amazing country instantly. Since that first visit, I have spent more than three years in Denmark, in both the capital of Copenhagen and in Aarhus. And, if my dreams come true, I’ll spend the rest of my life there as well!

Must go

Christianshavn

his beautiful oasis in the center of Copenhagen is home to beautiful canals and small, colorful houses that rival the architecture of Amsterdam. This island is also the home of Christiania, the “free” state within Copenhagen that it is regulated by a special law. This commune is most widely known for the legal sale of marijuana, but it also houses fascinating architecture and local residents. Take a walk around the nearby lake, and if you can find the Christiania Jazz Club – go! You’ll feel as if you’ve instantly been transported to 1955.

Tivoli

If you can spare about $20 for the entrance fee, visit the magical theme park of Tivoli in downtown Copenhagen. Stroll through the gorgeous gardens, enjoy a traditional Danish ice cream cone (topped with whipped cream, fresh jam and flødeboller), and see the theme park that inspired Walt to build Disneyland once upon a time.

Must do

Take a stroll on Nyhavn and see the sights

This well-known harbor in Copenhagen is filled with beautiful ships, quaint, brightly colored houses (one of which Hans Christian Anderson once resided in) and lots of people. Enjoy a cold beer or ice cream by the canal in the warmer months, and then take a walk down to the harbor, where you can stroll by the Amalienborg Palace and all the way to the infamous Little Mermaid statue (emphasis on the word little – she’s tiny!). In colder months, enjoy a glass of wine and live jazz music in the nearby Tango y Vinos - an amazing Argentinian wine bar.

Must eat
Smørrebrød
Denmark is well known for their variety of delectable open faced sandwiches, which are typically served on a very dark rye bread called rugbrød. Try any number of their traditional combinations: crispy fish, remoulade and lemon; hardboiled egg and shrimp; or – if you’re brave – pickled herring! If you’re at a special gathering, this lunchtime meal could be accompanied by shots of snaps. Skål!

Æbleskiver
If you happen to be in Denmark near Christmas, try Danish æbleskiver – small, spherical pancake-like treats that are served with fresh jam and a sprinkling of powdered sugar. You can simultaneously sip on my favorite Christmas drink glögg – mulled red wine with almond slices and raisins. Then just smile and say “God Jul!” to people you pass in the street. You’ll fit in perfectly!

Cultural tip
Everyone speaks English
This may not be completely true, but I bet this will be one of the first things you notice in Denmark. Danish citizens begin learning English in school at a very young age, and are often excited to meet English-speaking travelers so they can practice their language skills. Sometimes it takes a beer or two for people to gain their confidence, but then you’ll find they often speak English perfectly! Regardless, I would suggest learning a few simple Danish words to use, such as thanks – tak – and cheers – skål. Since only about 5.5 million people speak Danish, many Danes will be honored and surprised that you took the time to learn some of their language.

Reserved personalities
Many people think that the Danes are rude or cold when you first meet them, but really they are just generally reserved. Once they open up you’ll be glad you took the time to get to know them – so don’t write them off immediately! Simply take the time to talk with them – ask them questions about Denmark and their own travels, or buy them a round. You’ll quickly find that they are truly some of the nicest and most accommodating people you’ll ever meet.

Travel on the cheap
Buy your own food/drink
Since food and drinks in restaurants and bars can be quite expensive in Denmark, many people drink and eat before going out – often not arriving at bars and clubs until around midnight (most places are open until 5 a.m.). Buy food, beer and other drinks in supermarkets and you can save a lot of money. You can drink in public in Denmark too (in most places), so enjoy a pre-party picnic in the King’s Park or by the canal!

Thanks for sharing, Alexandra! Any other Denmark tips to share?

I bet you can't wait to quit your job and travel the world now, eh? Luckily, I've got some cheep-o travel ebooks that tell you how.

Yes Spaces: Christina Holm-Sandok of Style-Architects

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

After nearly a year hiatus, this is the return of one of my favorite features: Yes Spaces. Photos of my Real Life Friends' homes. Decorated on Normal People Budgets with things purchased from Normal People Stores. Amazing! Photos via the uber talented Meredith Westin.

Christina Holm-Sandok is lovely and talented and has great hair. She's also one of the first blog readers I ever met in real life. If memory serves, we met at a handbag launch party, where I hovered near the cheese wheel and awkwardly told style editors that my dress cost $5 from Goodwill. Christina and I bonded over our shared rural Minnesota, small-town upbringings and love of a good Gouda.

Internet homes: website // blog // facebook // twitter
Length of time in home: 2 years
I share my home with: My husband, Craig and our dog, Zoe

What are the three things you love most about your space?

The open layout {perfect for entertaining}, the white kitchen {feels so cozy and clean} and the neutral palette - I have a favorite color each season so it is fun to change the throw pillows or add fresh flowers. A neutral palette makes for the perfect canvas for my color schizophrenia.

What's the least awesome, must-work-around aspect of your space?
The airplane noise! I love the convenience of living 5 minutes from the airport but it can be distracting during an outdoor BBQ on our patio. Since we can't hear each other speak when a plane goes overhead, we just use it as an opportunity to take a drink of our cocktail :)

Tell us the story behind one of your favorite pieces in your space!
We stumbled upon our living room coffee table at Hunt + Gather, an antique & vintage shop in south Minneapolis. It was an old warehouse cart. I love the rugged appeal next to our white couch.

What are some of the DIYs you've tried here?
We recreated a piece of Restoration Hardware Art but customized it with a special address. Here is our version. White antlers - I bought an old rack of antlers for $10 and painted them white - a subtle nod to my rural upbringing but with a chic, city twist.

What's the strangest place you've found stuff for your home?
The liquor store! I love saving our empty tequila bottles and using them as flower vases.

What are your top four sources for design inspiration?
Pinterest, Matchbook Magazine, Rue Magazine and Elle Decor

If you were to name your home ala 'Tara' in 'Gone With The Wind,' what would you name it?
Tom Collins {the cocktail} Balanced, simple & sweet - And after enough time leaves you with a cozy buzz.

Thanks so much for sharing, Christina!

Wise Words For Graduates - Or Anybody, Really

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Wed, 09 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

On May 15th, I'm launching The Post College Survival Kit, a guide to growing up without effing up. You can see the course outline here or even download a sweet 14-page free ebook here. And if you sign up for my newsletter, you can get the course earlier and cheaper than everybody else!

I've graduated from three schools - Aitkin High School, The University of Minnesota - Morris, and The University of Victoria, Wellington. Each time I expected to be overwhelmed with emotion. Each time I spent the majority of the ceremony staring into the middle distance and wonder how I would fit my worldly belongings into five boxes.

Maybe I would have felt differently if I would have been listening to commencement speeches like these.

There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized. ... Your path at 22 will not necessarily be your path at 32 or 42. One’s dream is constantly evolving, rising and falling, changing course.

After I graduated from here, I moved down to Chicago and did improv. Now, there are very few rules to improvisation, but one of the things I was taught early on is that you are not the most important person in the scene. Everybody else is.

And if they are the most important person in the scene, you will naturally pay attention to them and serve them. But the good news is, you're in the scene, too. So hopefully to them, you're the most important person and they will serve you. No one is leading, you're all following the follower, serving the servant. You cannot win at improv.

And life is improvisation. You can no idea what's going to happen next and you are mostly just making things up as you go along.

Really when I look back at it I wouldn’t change a thing. I mean it was so important to me to lose everything because I found out what the most important thing is – To be true to yourself. Ultimately that’s what’s gotten me to this place. I don’t live in fear, I’m free, I have no secrets, I know I’ll always be okay because no matter what, I know who I am

Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life. No one is here today because they did it on their own. Okay, maybe Josh, but he's just a straight up weirdo. You're all here today because someone gave you strength. Helped you. Held you in the palm of their hand. God, Allah, Buddha, Gaga.

How did/do you feel about graduation?

How To Road Trip Solo

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

From February 15th to March 18th, I put almost 4,000 miles on my little Ford Focus, roadtripping from St. Paul, Minnesota to Lafayette, Louisiana to Crested Butte, Colorado and then all the way back home. I listened to a million podcasts, ate a million bags of Combos and stopped at a million McDonald's to use wifi. And I did all that roadtripping by myself.

If you want to roadtrip all by your lonesome (or even with friends!) here are a few tips.

1. Be safe
Whenever people hear that a woman wants to travel by herself, their first instinct is to tell you about their cousin's neighbor whose car broke down in Alabama and was never heard from again. Thank those people kindly and then ignore them. You can ignore them because you've done the following:
* bought a cigarette USB charger for you phone and computer.
* bought a Roadside Emergency Kit
* put together a list of the numbers in your phone (because if something happens to your phone, you know you won't remember anybody's numbers)
* given someone your itinerary and the contact numbers of the people you'll be staying with
* packed some bottled water and granola bars in the trunk (so you won't be tempted to eat them all)

2. Have the vaguest outline of a plan
Half the fun of roadtripping is embracing all the funny/weird things that come your way. Precious Moments chapel? Sure! Fried okra and pecan pie for lunch? Okay! Visiting a huge lake in Nebraska with 100 miles of white sand beaches? Dontmindifido.

You should have enough of a plan that you can tell your hosts which day you'll arrive on their doorstep or make hotel reservations, but don't schedule yourself too tightly. I like to limit driving to six hours a day and stop about every two hours to stretch and explore.

3. Stay healthy
If you're road tripping for multiple days (or weeks!), it's really easy to rely exclusively on gas station and fast food. Shockingly enough, sitting for six hours a day and only eating Combos and coffee will make you feel gross. Make an effort to stop at state parks and do some wee hikes, walk around new towns, buy your lunches from the grocery store's produce section or just buy one of those salads from a fast food restaurant. You'll feel way, way better.

4. Stay entertained
You can only talk to yourself for so long. I amuse myself by trying to find the local station of any city I'm passing through and listening to one million podcasts (here are some of my favorites). Long trips are also a good time to put your phone on speaker and have deep and meaningfuls with far flung friends.

5. Stay comfortable
Under the heading of 'obvious,' a long trip in the car is not the time to wear your super cute, super tight vintage dress. If you're going to be sitting for 6+ hours, wear comfy layers. When you're driving through different climates you can put on/take off clothes as needed and you won't get an angry stomach from that tight waistband. I swore by yoga pants, ballet flats, a t-shirt, cardigan, and scarf.

6. Don't get (totally) lost
I'm terrible with maps which is why I'm going to marry my Garmin. If you've got a smart phone, there are literally hundreds of navigation apps you can download. Before I got my Garmin, I thought it would be "a good personal challenge" to rely on actual paper maps and the directions of locals. You guys, you'd be amazed how many gas stations don't sell maps for their state, don't sell maps for neighboring states, and how many people are unaware that Louisiana is south of Missouri. Be ye not so stupid as me. Use an effing GPS system.

Have you ever road tripped alone? Or with friends? What advice would you share?

photo for sale here

True Story: I Received A Donated Kidney

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many True Story interviews in which we talk to people who have experienced interesting, amazing, challenging things. This is the story of 'Megan' and the kidney she received.

Tell us a bit about yourself!
I'm 37 and married with a 12-year-old son. We live in London, England, and moved here from Australia a year ago. I'm on staff at a church as a children's worker. In August we celebrated my 5th kidney birthday.

When did you begin to have trouble with your kidneys?
I have Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease (APKD), which is an hereditary disease. Cysts grow in the kidneys and squash healthy kidney tissue. I was tested for the disease when I was 20 because my mum was diagnosed with APKD.

When I was 30 I began to experience persistent chronic pain, nausea and nerve pain. My kidneys had grown so large with cysts that instead of each being the size of a fist it was the size of a football. I'm under five feet in height, and the kidneys took up a lot of space! I wore maternity clothes for three years because my middle was so extended. The left kidney was pushing other internal organs, pressing on nerves and taking up too much space for me to be able to eat properly.

What sorts of treatments did you and your doctor try before they put you on the transplant list?
There is no cure for APKD at this stage. For three years I tried different ways of managing the pain including many classes of pain killer (it turned out I'm allergic to all opiods, so there were no drug options), hypnotherapy, physiotherapy, TENS machine (a belt with little electric shocks), and spinal injections. I was also being treated for depression from living with chronic pain.

In the end, my doctor offered to remove the kidney for pain relief. This is an unusual step, and required considerable conversation. The left kidney was seriously limiting my quality of life, but it was doing more work than my placid right kidney. Removing the left kidney would put me into renal failure, which is fatal unless treated with dialysis or a transplant: the renal team wouldn't be able to remove the kidney unless I had someone willing to give me one of theirs.

Can you tell us about the process of finding a donor?
Finding a donor for me was quite different to many other people's journey. I mentioned to my Dad (who lives in the USA) that I needed a donor, and that the first hurdle was finding someone with the same blood type as me: O negative. He says that as soon as he knew he was O negative he didn't even feel like he made a choice, it was just the thing he knew he was going to do.

After initial health checks with his family doctor, my Dad flew, with my Mum, to Australia from the USA. I had many, many tests to ensure the rest of my body was going to support a transplant. And Dad had many tests to be certain his body would handle living with only one kidney. Only after we were both cleared could I have my right kidney removed. I spent a week recovering in hospital, most of that in ICU, after a traumatic surgery and then needed six weeks to regain enough strength for the transplant surgery. I needed dialysis during this time, as my remaining kidney couldn't cope by itself. I went for four hours every other day to be hooked up to the dialysis machine via a central line that had been inserted in my neck, so that my blood could be 'cleaned'.

What happens when you get a transplant?
Dad and I went to the hospital the night before our surgeries. He went to surgery first, and then I waited with my husband and Mum until it was finished so I could have my turn - a surreal waiting experience! Once the surgeon had finished removing Dad's kidney I went in to operating theater.

The first thing I remember after the transplant is briefly regaining consciousness and saying as loud as I could 'I did it!', then lapsing back into unconsciousness. It was certainly an enormous relief to have got that far.

After a transplant the recipient's body is deliberately immune-suppressed with drugs so that the donor organ is not rejected, otherwise the body would recognize that the kidney is foreign and attack it. Being immune suppressed means that the body has no way of fighting other things, either. So for the first few days after the transplant I was in isolation, with a nurse in the room 24 hours a day. Everyone who came in to my hospital room was scrubbed, gloved and gowned. I was able to go home in less than a week.

For the donor, removing a kidney is a more painful operation than receiving one. Dad was in a lot of pain in the first days, but able to be home in a few days. He was able to travel back to the USA after three weeks. For about 12 months after he would say 'I was thinking of you particularly today', meaning that there was some pain when he put his belt on, or twisted in his chair, or got out of bed suddenly. But five years later, there is no ongoing pain, and no ongoing health issues.

After I was discharged I went to the hospital every morning for blood tests and monitoring. This stepped down to three times a week, then once a week, then once a month. Now I see a renal doctor about every eight weeks.

How did the people in your life react to your father's decision to give you one of his kidneys?
Everyone I have spoken to has been very positive. Many people are quite moved at the gift of life that my Dad has given me. My Mum had a kidney transplant 13 years ago and needed to wait on dialysis for over three years for a suitable donor kidney to be available. We are all amazed and grateful that I was able to navigate a different path through Dad's generosity.

Does being an organ transplant recipient affect you on a daily basis?
Immune-suppression is a daily business! My immune system will always be deliberately compromised so that the new kidney is not rejected. Each day I take a lot of medication. At the moment I take at least 15 tablets a day, which is a significant reduction from the 37 a day I started on.

My body is not as good at fighting infection, so I need to be careful about cuts and sickness. My body doesn't heal as well, either. I have a cold at the moment, which knocks me around more than other people. And having the flu can easily mean a stay in hospital. I'm not able to travel as extensively as before (my husband and son have traveled to Thailand and Africa without me because I need to be close to a first-world hospital and malaria is a very bad idea!).

More importantly, though, having a kidney transplant affects me on a daily basis because now I have energy and strength. I'm able to think more than an hour ahead. I'm not just trying to survive each day, but am living with passion and freedom. It's a wonderful thing!

Why should people check that 'donor' box on their driver's license?
Organ donation changes lives. Not only have I been profoundly altered by the new chance at life I've been given, but my husband and son are able to live significantly different lives because I'm well and energetic. Our lives are no longer dominated by sickness and pain. This new life has been possible because of Dad's love and sacrifice. Many people who need a transplant are not in the position where a family member is willing or able to donate an organ, so stating your wishes to be a donor on your driver's license, and telling your family that you want your organs donated, could profoundly change another family's life.

Are you guys registered donors? If you'd like to become one, you can register here. Any questions for Megan?

Web Time Wasters

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sun, 06 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

How was your week, friends? I finally, finally tried Barbette's transcendent pomme frites with saffron aioli, checked out Jonathan Adler's new store (amazing! and so out of my price range!), ran around Lake Calhoun without dying or throwing up, and workedworkedworked.

But enough about me! Let's talk about the interwebz!

Yes. Calling women 'crazy' is something that has to stop.

Cute! Bite sized brunch!

I love Target (Minnesota represent!) and want to believe the best of them. And yet .... are all mega chains the same?

Have you ever wondered what life as a magazine style editor is like? My friend Katie Dohman tells us!

If this video of the 1987 Crystal Light National Aerobic Championships doesn't make you grin, perhaps you need to reassess your life.

I appreciate this take on bikini wearing: just rock what you've got.

What happens if you accomplish all of your goals?

This is sad/interesting/haunting. Indigenous tribes on India’s Andaman Islands are severely threatened. Tourists are offering so much money to be able to see the “uncivilized people.” Protected by isolation until the stone age the most isolated tribe only made contact with the outside world in 1998.

Shuuuut uuuuppp. A WAFFLE MAKER THAT MAKES TINY WAFFLES IN THE SHAPE OF FURNITURE.

I might actually consider wearing pastels if they always looked this cool.

Cute new legs for that ubiquitous Ikea couch!

Amazing tattoos.

It's important to remember that frustration has a place in the creative process.

Animal Power

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Sat, 05 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Too awesome. Too awesome!

Real Life Style Icon: Franceta of Frantic Dreams

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Fri, 04 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This is one of many Real Life Style Icon interviews in which we talk to smart, funny, painfully cute fashion bloggers. And then we distract them with shiny things and raid their closets.

Name: Franceta Johnson

Age: 20

Location: Toronto, ON.

Online haunts: blog // tumblr // twitter // instragram

Three reasons that you're awesome:

I am an amazingly tall Amazon (6'5" to be exact!) I'm ridiculously creative when I'm not being completely lazy, and if I am determined to do something, it WILL be done!

What are you wearing right now, as you type this?

Black velvet tights, a over-sized black knit sweater, red lipstick and about two pounds of gold jewellery.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

I took a break half way through writing this and bought a black pair of woven, lace-up sandals. But that would fall under accessories. The last clothing item I bought was a white, sleeveless turtle neck crop top. Sounds terrifying but it's not, I promise!

What is the item of clothing you most covet at the moment?

Again, not "clothing" but my neon yellow Cambridge satchel. Obsessed!

Tell us about a favorite childhood memory about your clothes.

My favorite clothing memory would have to be Halloween, every single year. I loved all the cheap costume jewellery and the ridiculous make-up. I went from being a bride, to a princess, to being the wicked witch of the west for five years straight.

What is your best thrifting score?

A Levi's denim jacket for $6! Best, day, EVER!

Could you tell us your top three style tricks/DIYs?

1. Safety-pins, Rit-dye, rubber cement, hot glue and loose glitter in any color, save lives; Stock up!

2. Invest in key pieces that you will wear with everything, they seriously will last you a lifetime.

3. You can never wear "too much" black. Never.

Thanks so much for sharing, Franceta!

How To Dress Joyously

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Thu, 03 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

This guest post comes to us via the lovely and talented Sally McGraw of Already Pretty fame. Every day she writes about style, body image, and self-love. And check out her fantastic podcast Strong, Sexy, Stylish!

Dressing can be a chore. If you’re grappling with body image woes, work in a critical or intolerant environment, or are dealing with chronic pain, peering into your closet each morning may prompt more anxiety than elation. But I firmly believe that striving to dress joyously is a worthwhile endeavor. For all of us. Because we’ve all got to wear clothes every day, and the clothes we choose broadcast information about us to the observing world. And because the clothes we choose can be protective or celebratory or expressive or soothing, and what we wear can change the path we take for the day.
Dressing is powerful. And so it should be joyous.

Here are some ways to ensure the dressing process is joyous for YOU:

Work around negativity
Frequently, the biggest, strongest roadblock to joyous dressing is negative feedback from outside sources. It can seem impossible to wear anything but your most unremarkable clothing if you know that anything more daring will be met with unwelcome commentary. But there are ways to both build your courage and deflect nasty remarks.

Start by amassing pieces and tools that contribute to your look, then deploy them in small enough amounts that it feels like your little secret. Then try cultivating allies: Talk to a select few people about why dressing this way is important to you, so that you have some supporters amongst the dissenters. And then give my tried-and-true favorite comeback a whirl: Laugh. When someone makes a rude remark about your outfit, just laugh and say, “Hahaha, I know! Isn’t this WILD?” Own it. Never apologize. Then walk away.

None of these techniques is foolproof, and your unique situation may make them all seem utterly ludicrous. But the point is this: There are ways. You don’t have to surrender a potential source of joy to buzzwreckers or bullies. Formulate a strategy, take a deep breath, and go forth dressed fabulously.

Fake it
The second biggest, strongest roadblock is self-critique. Whether you believe that your body isn’t “good enough” to pull off a certain skirt, or are convinced that you’re not stylish enough to wear a trendy dress, your own fears and apprehensions constitute a very real impediment to dressing with joy. So try faking it. Throw on the skirt before you can get too freaked out about it, and just GO. Pull on that dress and strut through your day like a superstar. It’s been said before, but bears repeating: Confidence is the most powerful beautifier in the universe. Believe in yourself and you can wear anything. And if your belief is wavering, fake it.

Wear sentimental pieces
Gorgeous clothing that has been beautifully designed and expertly manufactured is thrilling to wear. But the most threadbare tee or scuffed-up shoes can prompt more joy than gorgeous designer duds if those well-worn items have sentimental value. Whenever I wear a dress that my mom made for me, or a bracelet that my dad bought for me, or shoes that my husband gave me for Hanukkah, I feel exponentially happier. Every time I glimpse what I’m wearing, I feel loved and cherished. There is no quicker path to joyous dressing than embracing garments that hold emotional meaning.

Embrace color, texture, and shine
Matte black is eternally chic, but bright red, vibrant yellow, rich purple, and electric blue invigorate both wearer and observer. Sequins and studs add interest and excitement to a garment. Lush layers, draped cloth, richly textured fibers make bodies feel sensually fulfilled. Neutrals are cool and classic, but when you’re aiming for joy, go for color, texture, and shine.

Explore figure flattery
Do NOT interpret this mandate to mean “figure out how to make your big bits look smaller” or “buy clothing, shoes, and accessories that make you look tall and thin.” In my opinion, figure flattery is so much broader than most style experts would lead you to believe. Flattering clothing lies flat against your body. Flattering clothing doesn’t pull, pinch, or subdivide. Flattering clothing works with your eyes, hair, and skin tone. Flattering clothing creates a silhouette that pleases your eye. And all of these things have value because when your body is flattered as you wish it to be, you feel like your best self.

Is it always going to be this simple? No. Will following these exact steps lead to a guaranteed lifetime of joyous dressing? Probably not. Will there be days when dressing joyously falls to the bottom of your priorities? For sure. But again, those of us who move about in non-nudist circles must get dressed every single day of our lives.

Many daily tasks are extremely difficult to transform into celebratory affairs: I brush my teeth willingly but without emotion, I do the dishes religiously but grudgingly, and there’s not much I can do to infuse these tasks with my own brand of joie de vivre. But dressing? Dressing CAN be joyous. And I choose to make it so. As can you.

What do you wear when you want to feel joyful?

bracelet for sale here

A Day In The Life of Yes and Yes

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Wed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Dear Sarah Von,
I'm really interested in how your day-to-day blogging life goes. How much time do you spend researching? How much time writing? How far in advance do you write your posts? Where do you get your inspiration from? How do you make sure your following remains strong? I imagine it's a lot of work even though I don't know what the position of professional blogger entails.

Oh, friend. You flatter me. I'm always absolutely riveted by other bloggers' 'peek behind the curtain' posts but for some reason I've never thought of doing one myself. Because, you guys? This business is probably disappointingly normal and boring. But! You asked for it - so here goes! This is the real, actual run down of what I did on Tuesday, April 24th.

6:00 am: Get up sans alarm because I'm a dorky morning person. Drink tea out of a unicorn mug and eat breakfast. Go through my Google Reader and star posts I want to include in the next Web Time Wasters, delete spammy emails, update the Yes and Yes Facebook and Twitter accounts, respond to Twitter and Facebook comments.

7:00: Make bed (yes, really. It makes me feel like a grown up!), get dressed in 'real clothes' and put on makeup. Again, this makes me feel like A Grown Up Who's Going To Work.

7:20: Make a list and start Doing All The Things. Put together this weekend's Yes and Yes newsletter. Write About page and Investment page for a local filmmaker. Write sales page for a photographer based in Portland. Write landing page for media guru based in Hawaii. Try to think of a word like 'spark' or 'ignite' (but better) for relationship therapist client.

Usually, I set a timer for 30 minutes, work, and then take five minute breaks and do super fun things like: blow dry my hair or do the dishes. See! I told you this post would be riveting!

12:40: Eat lunch of fake chicken patty with honey mustard and spinach salad with goat cheese in front of computer. Belatedly realize that it's gorgeous outside and I should do something about it.

1:00: Walk to nearby Tiny Library to contribute a collection of essays I bought at Goodwill for $.50. Walk to the bank to get cash and a roll of quarters for laundry-doing as I'm down to bikini bottoms for underwear.

2:00: Get an email from a corporate sponsor who wants to buy a three-month ad package and do a giveaway Put together the giveaway post and the sponsor's spot in the mid-month sponsor post.

Write up a bunch of assignments for my intern who helps with one of the corporate blogs I manage. We discuss super sexy things like embedding links, resizing photos, full justifying text and @mentioning guest posters on Twitter.

3:00: Format Mini Travel Guide: Iceland. So much photo fussing! Go through first round edits with a new client. Laugh with another client over tales of conference calls gone terribly wrong.

4:00: Very, very begrudgingly open the daily training email about the adventure 5k I'm doing. Do the suggested workout. Feel alternatingly hot, tired, and awesome.

5:00: Put on my Fancy Lady Disguise (re: eyeliner and non-ponytail hair) and spend 40 minutes in traffic to meet my Gentleman Caller at Spoonriver for pre-play nibbles. Wine and veggie burgers and soba noodles, ahoy!

7:30: Time Stands Still! Sort of relate to the lead character who has returned from abroad and feels weird about life in America. Except said lead character is pretty unlikeable. Despite being named Sarah.

8:00: Sneak into the Guthrie's VIP lounge (we're not VIPs!) and drink free wine.

10:00: Drive home, check email, make a conscious effort not to work more.

10:30: Go to sleep in my slightly creaky bed that I bought off Craigslist.

There you have it, friends. The deeply normal day in the life of a professional blogger. Hope you didn't fall asleep!

Giveaway! Cute, Sexy-ish Shoes You Can Actually Walk In!

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Von) — Tue, 01 May 2012 23:00:00 +0000

Do you guys remember our conversation about cute, sexy-ish shoes that you can actually walk in? Well, because I like you so much, I thought I should hook you up with a pair of those aforementioned shoes.

Blowfish Shoes has been kind enough to offer one pair of shoes (of your choice!) to one rather lucky reader.

Here's the deal:

1) Go check out Blowfish Shoes' awesome collection of foot-candy
2) Come back here and leave a comment telling me which pair you like best and what you'd wear 'em with

3) I'll choose a winner at random on Friday!

(I've got a soft spot for the Howie in yellow. Wouldn't they be cute with dark wash skinnies, a striped top and a slick of red lipstick?)

Giveaway for US residents only. Sorry, international friends!

Best of luck!