I’ve been working in overdrive lately.
And I’m just trying to take it one day at a time but I do find myself feeling overwhelmed. Between making sure Boone gets enough exercise, researching and writing papers for class, and trying to figure out which insurance plan I should sign up for (turning 26 next year and I’m losing dual coverage from my parents insurance plan sigh), life continues to propel forward. So I wanted to take a step back today from the overdrive. Take a step back from class and from work. Take a step back so I can reflect on what I’m thankful for this Thanksgiving.
1.I’m thankful for my support system
My family, boyfriend Brandon, dog Boone, and friends have been an incredible support system. It’s been an incredible growth year for me. From applying to accepting and starting grad school, it hasn’t been easy adding school on top of my busy schedule. I appreciate everyone in my life that’s been patient and understanding with me as I trade off study time with time spent with family and friends.
I’m thankful for my parents for always believing and encouraging me to go back to school. I’m thankful for my little sister who always takes the time to listen to me. She literally hears me complain about Instagram and also listens to my ideas no matter how far fetch they are. I’m thankful for Boone for all the cuddles, the entertainment, and walks we get to do together. I’m thankful for Brandon who’s been along for the entire ride – which includes the photo shoots he’s done with me this year hehe. And I’m thankful for my friends for helping me with my school projects, blogging, brunching, and everything else in my life!
2. I’m thankful for the opportunity for higher education
I know not everyone has the resources to go back to school. So I feel incredibly thankful for an employer who values and sponsors my higher education endeavors. I honestly could not have pulled out more student loans for my masters program because I’m still working on my undergraduate loans. So even though it’s a lot of work to go to into the office all day and then go to school, I’m still thankful.
I’ve learned so much my first quarter of grad school and even created a whole project/campaign around the Gender Pay Gap which meant a lot to me. I’m excited (and nervous) for next quarter!
3. I’m thankful for blogging
I can’t help but be thankful for everything that blogging has brought me. Blogging has allowed me to develop brand partnerships, write more thoughtful, creative pieces, and create deeper relationships in the blogging community.
Who would have ever thought that writing and taking photos would lead to self discovery? Or that it would lead a Filipino-American woman to believe she has a voice in the fashion industry? Or that it would lead to confidence, happiness, and fulfillment?
So many people asked me if I would give up blogging when I started grad school. And I don’t think I could ever give up something that brings me so much joy in my life. I’m thankful that I chose blogging and that blogging chose me back. I’m thankful that the content I’ve created and shared also has brought value and happiness to others around me!
Some of my favorite pieces that helped my friends and blogging community this year include:
The Truth About My Imposter Syndrome, How to Pose Like a Fashion Blogger, How to Reach out and Collaborate with Brands, and What’s Something that Nobody Knows About Me?
These are just three major things in my life I’m incredibly thankful for! I hope you get a chance to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with your family and friends this thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Style Tip:
Take your summer or fall gingham dress into winter with a black leather/moto jacket and velvet booties. Add some edge to your look with this gorgeous emerald green backpack. You can get 15% with code EMMA15!
Shop similar items and recreate my Thanksgiving outfit:
What are three things you’re thankful for this Thanksgiving?
Thank you for reading!
Love,
Emma
Photos: Holly Phan