1) The lovely blossoms of the bradford pear trees around my neighborhood.  2) A snippet of my work space. 3) My obsession with owls continues with these adorable owl hooks. 4) George being the best co-pilot during a 6 hour solo voyage to visit my mom & sister.

 1) The lovely flowers my fiance surprised me with to cheer me up after being sick & going to the hospital. 2) The adorable George in a doggie nest I built him while he was under the weather. 3) I baked some strawberry & chocolate cupcakes for my co-workers. 4) My future sister-in-law surprised me with the most adorable owl earrings. You can't really see them in the pictures but they make me smile anytime I wear them. 5) Drooling over the colorful Kitchenaid mixers while registering for my wedding. 6) Dr. Who socks...Need I say more? 7) My bridesmaids found the cutest buttons for my bachelorette party. 8) Posing with Ana, one of my adorable bridesmaids, during dinner on my bachelorette weekend. 

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 I have not shared my iPhone pictures in what seems like forever. Just like most of my fellow blog authors, I'm pretty much obsessed with snapping iPhone/smartphone pictures and sharing them on Instagram. If you are on Instagram, we should definitely be Insta-friends! My user name is happytobequirky, and I post a lot of pictures of my wire fox terrier, George.  I obsessively log on to Instagram every morning when I'm trying to wake up and heart a bazillion pictures while sipping a mug of hot coffee. It is actually the highlight of my morning because I'm definitely not a morning bird. 

I have always loved being able to capture my daily life with iPhone images. Although some of my pictures tend to have poor quality, it's still fun to look back and remember what was going on in my life at the time. I do need to make an effort to use my Nikon SLR camera more often. Sadly, I'm not in habit of pulling it out to snip pictures like a lot of other bloggers. I'm currently working on a blog post all about my camera shyness which will explain what I'm talking about in more detail and present some suggestions for anyone struggling with the same issue. 

This week I want to bust out my SLR and take more photos. My wedding is a little less than one month away, so I also have a bazillion wedding related errands to run. 

Sending lots of positive vibes your way,

 

Have you ever found yourself in what seems like an inescapable writing rut? Whether it be a lack of inspiration or the complete halt of any sort of update. I recently found myself in such a rut after coping with a terrible flare up of my autoimmune illness while planning my wedding & juggling a billion other obligations. Overwhelmed with the stress and the lack of time from holding down two jobs, I felt my blog suffer as night after night passed without any updates.

After taking a month long hiatus, I felt that getting back into my blog routine was nearly impossible. Every time I sat down to compose a post, I felt hopeless and uninspired. A few weeks ago, I received a sad email from a lovely reader who wanted to know why my writing had nearly ceased entirely. She expressed that many blogs often end up being a dead space on the internet when a blog author abandons them and how sad it would be if that were the case with my blog.

I decided that I was either going to let my blog fade away and sit like a cob web inside a dusty cyber closet, or I was going to reclaim my blog and infuse it with the energy & positivity that I began my writing endeavor with originally. I felt that the best way to end my blogging rut was to write about it. As most you know, our blogs are like an extension of who we are as people. Not our whole selves, but a very deep & personal part. What better way to bring my blog back to life than to write about my ideas on how to avoid and defeat a blogging rut.

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GET ORGANIZED

My main problem whenever I find myself in a rut is to figure what to write about. That has always been the most difficult part of the process for me. I can easily get stumped by the most docile case of writer's block. I feel that the best way to avoid writer's block is to have a plan of action before you even start writing. To give you an idea of what I am talking about I will lay out the process I have conceived for my own writing.

First, I jot down a list of numerous topic ideas. To make things easier, I usually keep a working list of topics with me inside my Filofax. I constantly think of ideas while I'm in the most inconvenient places, and I find it easier to jot those ideas down when I have a list with me at all times. Write all of your ideas down in the same place. Even silly ideas or ideas that still need some work. Never dismiss an idea just because it isn't 100 percent perfect.

Next, I sit down with a calendar and plan the schedule for my blog posts. You can approach this step a number of ways depending on your personal preferences. I like to print out blank calendars for each month and fill in each day with my goals & planned posts. I also plan what days I'm actually going to composes said posts. I like to write a few posts in one sitting when I'm feeling inspired.

After the planning is done, I simply continue to brainstorm topic ideas and try my best to stick to my schedule. There is always some give and take when it comes to a blog schedule but it should definitely be followed most of the time in order to stay on track.

STOP MAKING EXCUSES

It's easy to make excuses when it comes to anything that requires effort. Writing, editing, and organizing your blog posts takes a lot more effort than anyone reading can imagine from the finished product. If you have fallen into a rut for a long time, you should start by extinguishing that nagging voice in the back of your mind that reminds you that it's just been too long since your last update. Even if it's been months, it's okay to come back to your blog. Even if some of your old followers have moved on, there are plenty of new readers out there just waiting to discover your writing.

Stop apologizing for gaps between your posts or skipped days without any new content. There is no need to feel guilty for taking the time that you need.

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MORE QUIRKY TIPS

♥ Don't be afraid of writers' block. The less you dwell on it, the quicker it will disappear.

♥ Don't be overly critical during your first draft of writing. Just let the words come out as they will. Edit your writing once you have gotten your original idea out.

♥ Try using a word processor while working. I also enjoy using Ommwriter when I need to block out the distractions and just write my heart out.

♥ Listen to instrumental music that is inspiring but not distracting. Turn off the television and close all superfluous web tabs. Shutting out distractions is a big help for me because it's easy to let multi-tasking overwhelm you and keep you from your writing. 

♥ Set aside time to write free from distractions. I tend to write early in the morning or late at night when everyone is asleep.

♥ Take some time at least once per week to jot down lots of ideas. Even silly ideas can spark something brilliant. Write & doodle freely without any inner criticism.

♥ If you usually look for images or edit images prior to writing, switch things up and write the article first. And vice versa if you usually write first.

 

♥ Read everything & anything that inspires you. Watch your favorite movies, listen to podcasts, read magazines/newspapers/blogs. Absorb it all and let yourself be inspired. It's funny how anything can spark a new & original idea if you are receptive to it.

♥ Work away from the computer. I have a composition notebook covered in pink hearts that I like to write in.

♥ Go somewhere new like a chic cafe or a park bench. Find somewhere that works for you. My 

local library has an amazing row of secluded desks fully equipped with outlets. I could spend hours there hidden away from the world.

♥ Don't stress if you don't have time to update on a daily basis. Write when you feel inspired. Your writing schedule will develop over time. The more passionate you are about what you are writing, the more frequent your posts will be.

♥ Pre-write when you feel inspired to do so. Write some articles in advance when you are feeling especially creative. Save them for a busy time in your life.

♥ Go for a walk outside and let your ideas percolate inside your mind.

 

 

Things have been chaotic lately. I mentioned on Instagram that I checked into the hospital last week due to some complications with my autoimmune disease. I was released over the weekend and have been struggling to recover & get back to feeling more like myself again. I went back to work on Tuesday & plan to return to working out at the gym next week. It's been kind of tough getting back into my normal routines, and I have been battling terrible headaches and fatigue for the past couple of days. It's been a challenge to stay positive, but I'm motivated and determined to push forward. I also have a really wonderful support system with my fiance and family. In addition, I talk to my older sister every single day and that seems to keep my spirits high. She has always been the best person to cheer me up.
 

 Living with a chronic illness has been one of the most difficult obstacles I have faced in my life. As an outlet, I first starting writing & journaling when I was informed about my autoimmune disease back in 2009. I have struggled with illness for most of my life, but I was finally able to put a name to what was going on with my body. Ever since I was diagnosed, I have used my illness as the motivation to stay positive and encourage others to do the same. Being chronically ill has revealed to me what I'm capable of dealing with and showed me a stronger & braver side of myself. Don't get me wrong...it's far from glamorous and there have been some really tough days along the way, but it has also pushed me further than I thought I was capable and made me a stronger person.

I rarely talk about my illness because I'm just not one of those people who wants to call attention to the fact that I'm chronically ill. I talk about it from time to time because I want to share parts of my life and connect with others who may be struggling with their own health problems, but it's not because I want sympathy or attention. It's not always easy to share these vulnerable parts of myself, especially when there are people out there who simply do not understand and tend to say hurtful things just because they can. But it's worth it to deal with a few rude people because there are so many amazing & wonderful people out there who genuinely care.

I've been writing non-stop in an old composition notebook covered in lots of whimsical animals for the past few weeks. It has been such a wonderful way to let out some of my frustrations and vent to someone who will accept me & not judge me for my feelings or opinions. I popped into a stationary store yesterday and picked up a fancy leather bound journal. I've not a big leather fan because I have a sensitivity towards animals, so it was kind of a stretch for me but I was tempted by the lovely journals and my old notebooks have a tendency to fall apart. I also busted out my fancy pens and started writing almost immediately. It has been extremely therapeutic to just write and write without any worries or inner critics.

If you have ever dealt with health problems or have family/friends who struggle with illness, I would love to hear from you. It's actually the most wonderful feeling to make a connection with someone who truly understands what you are going through.

Lots of positive vibes & warm fuzzies,


 

I have always been interested in photography ever since I was given my very first fun saver disposable camera. I can fondly remember snapping pictures of the sky, anything colorful, and all of my relatives. Unfortunately, I struggle with my confidence regarding my abilities as a photographer because of all the probloggers out there with their fancy cameras & photographer boyfriends. Not that any of those things are bad, but we are all at different levels and it can be extremely difficult not to compare ourselves to others. Rather than let myself be discouraged or compare myself to the many talented blog authors in the blog-o-sphere, I plan to share my efforts & progress with you as I learn more about photography and develop my own style. One of my new  features for this blog will be all about my daily adventures through the pictures captured on my iPhone.

Lots of warm wishes & positive vibes,

• Get more active: I finally broke down and signed up for a grown up gym membership. I absolutely hate the gym at our apartment unit and have been avoiding my normal workouts. I'm excited to get back into my routine workouts. I always feel more energetic & motivated when I workout on a regular basis. I'm not one of those people who work out 7 days per week, but I do enjoy being more active & getting in some cardio.

• Organize my closet and storage unit: It's time to start spring cleaning around my apartment. My closet has become a very scary place over the last few months and it's time to re-organize and clean out all of the unwanted clothing & items.

• Learn & master some new crochet projects & stitches: I have been collecting some adorable crochet projects on pinterest for a few weeks. I also bought some colorful yarn at the craft store a few days ago so I could start working on some of those projects during the month.

• Finish my to-do list for all of my wedding details for the month: I have about a zillions things to get done this month for my wedding in May. I have a list of diy projects that I need to complete this month in order to stay on schedule.

• Cook more often: I have always wanted to be one of those super organized people who plan out their menus for the week and prepare all of their lunches in colorful tupperware. I went to the store last night and filled up my kitchen with a plethora of delicious food. I also bought a dry erase calendar to put on my fridge & plan out my meals for the week.

As you can see, my blog has a new look! I have spent the last week working on a new & more simplified blog design concept. I took the Blog (Design) Love & Blog Love e-courses over at A Beautiful Mess. Although I spent many evenings, afternoons, and early mornings crouched over my laptop like a creeper, I feel extremely happy with the final product. I was able to develop a design, create the elements using Adobe Photoshop & Adobe Illustrator, and do my own HTML coding. I have taken several classes in HTML coding, so my real challenge was working on the design aspect. I wanted something more grown up, simple, and still just a little bit quirky. 



I'm still working on the Blog Love e-course, spending many evening just furiously scribbling ideas into a composition notebook covered in hearts. I also have post-its covering every free space on my desk, walls, and cork boards. I nearly explode into spaz mode whenever a bout of inspiration hits me (which is usually when I'm at work or busy on the telephone).  I'm learning a lot about my identity as a blog author and allowing my writing to evolve. 

Since I began the adventure as a blogger, I have struggled with finding my niche and honing in on my main purpose as a writer. I have read zillions of blog articles about blogging, and they all highlight the importance of finding your niche. It's has been a challenge because I'm interested and passionate about so many different topics. While I don't expect myself to write about EVERYTHING, I still feel like I shouldn't limit myself to a single category. It's like a pigeon hole for blogging. I just feel like I don't fit in completely with any of the pre-made blog categories. It's a daunting task trying find your place in this blogging world. 



A Quirky Girl's Blog is a refuge for eccentrics, weirdos, and the genuinely quirkified. It is also my own little corner of the inter-web where I explore magical positivity, living with gratitude, serendipity, and being kind to others & yourself. I believe that every day begins with a choice to life with gratitude. Each day is filled with splendidly imperfect moments, serendipitous happenings, numerous opportunities to be kind and a multitude of adventures. I write about choosing joy, finding magic in the ordinary, and my crusade to completely discover self love. I share my own ideas, photographs, anecdotes, and stories here. While some would classify my blog as personal, I like to think of it as a personal lifestyle blog. A hodge podge of silly & serious. 

Don't get me wrong. This is not a meadow plastered with cupcakes & rainbows (although I love both of those things). I am definitely not under the impression that every day begins with a flurry of blue birds chirping happily while arranging tulips and roses in my hair. Like I have said before, each day is a choice. No one is perfect and everyone has their own daily struggles. It isn't about being perfectly happy, grateful and kind all the time. It's about trying your best and accepting yourself fully despite your shortcomings & mistakes. My main goal as a writer is to encourage others to make a choice to live with a grateful attitude, to battle self-loathing with a vengeance, and to constantly keep trying. 



So, voila...that is my blogging manifesto in a nutshell. The wonderful & incredible thing about being a blog author is the power you have to transform, change, and morph your blog into anything your heart desires. Your blog should follow suit as you grow as a person & as your life progresses. Don't feel pressured to represent every aspect of your life or interests. Your blog is just a peek into those things. If you are planning on undertaking a dramatic blog makeover, give yourself plenty of time to reflect on your goals as a writer and keep in mind your website's needs as you prepare a new design. I like to keep my blogging ideas organized in a notebook that can easily slip into my satchel while I'm at work or on the go. 

I would definitely suggest taking an e-course or utilizing the many sources out there on the web, especially if you want to create your own design. There is nothing wrong with hiring a designer to create the perfect blog design for you, but there is something extremely magical about creating for yourself. Even if you are inexperienced at HTML or designing, don't be afraid to give it a try. 

Many positive thoughts & warm wishes,

Now that the bubbly champagne (or sparkling grape juice in my case) has been guzzled and the confetti glitter has been swept up, it feels appropriate to formally welcome 2013. The beginning of a brand new year has always been an exciting time for me. Just like the beginning of  each new week or the start of a brand new month. For me, it's a blank canvas just waiting for all of my adventures & misadventures.

To be honest, I'm quite sad to see 2012 go. It was a tough & trying year for me to say the least, yet it was filled with some pretty amazing moments. It was a transition period for my life...almost a make it or break it situation. And in retrospect, I'm certain that I definitely learned many lessons and gently grew   more than I may have realized at the time.  I have been struggling to return to my blog writing for the past few months, and I feel that part of it has been a mental block which appeared midway through the year when I was struggling with health problems & tremendous amounts of stress. It has been difficult for me to address the situation, and I have found that avoiding my blog altogether has been my way to cope. Now that the New Year has begun, I feel dedicated to rediscovering my passion for writing. I have known many people who simply abandon their endeavors, yet I cannot let go of my blog. It has been a part of me for several years and has gotten me through some incredibly difficult moments in my life.

I'm an avid believer in resolutions. It's more about creating & cultivating who you are as a person rather than simply improving yourself on the outside. I enjoy creating monthly resolutions as well because I feel that we are always changing & growing and our resolutions should do the same. Last week, I sat down at my desk with a huge cup of chai tea and composed a list of resolutions for 2013. It only took me about 15 minutes to come up with a mammoth list of goals, dreams, and wishes. I decided that I would just share my top 10, so here they are...

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What are your resolutions for 2013? I would love to hear from you!

Lots of love & positivity,