A different kind of Hot Have...

While reading over non-profit blogs for my Literacy Chicago (@LiteracyChicago) Internship, I stumbled upon a very worthy list of “Hot Haves.” The list was that of non-profit donations, gifts, etc that would work perfectly for loved ones who “don’t want anything” for the holidays, all the while going toward the cause.

I asked my parents to get me the Susan G. Komen New Balance Heart Rate Monitor Watch, not only because I need one, but because 25% of the profits go toward the foundation. I also picked up some items for family members, but since a few of them read this post, you are just going to have to wait to hear what they are… and they’re really good.

So, there you go, a list of 11 very broad suggestions to go toward your holiday shopping that I found worthy of mentioning. Next week, I will try to make a quality list of Hot Have Christmas items. Also, if you would like me to assist in finding a deal on something your loved ones want, be free to comment or directly email me: vemccoy.blogspot@gmail.com. I always love the hunt of a good find!

Wish adding "5k runner" would boost my resume...

Well, didn't make a hot list this past week, so I guess I'll be cranking out a good one for Sunday.

Anywho, let's get down to business. Today, I accomplished something, and I'm damn proud of myself.

A few weeks ago at yoga I heard about the Snowflake Shuffle which raised money for TriCity Family Services. I hopped online Sunday night and registered to run the said 5k. I'd been running for a while and thought I could handle it. You have to understand, I have not been running long. I usually pop out about 2 miles... but I just wasn't sure if I could do it.

I woke up at 7am (5k was at 9) to stretch and whatnot and got very nervous. What if I don't run as fast as the others? What if I have to stop and walk? I've always been very competitive, and not with others, but with myself and my abilities. I didn't want to let myself down.

I got to the Shuffle at about 8:45 and was incredibly intimidated by the other runners. Many of them had Chicago Marathon jackets on (You get a jacket??) and generally appeared to be VERY hardcore.

When the gun went off at 9am, I started off well and set my pace. It was fantastic! All of my worry melted off and I thought about taking the race one step at a time. There were times when I felt like I couldn't run, but I pumped my arms and made it through those weak points. I finished the 5k in 33:53 - not the best time ever, but definitely okay for a first time 5k-er! But better yet, I proved to myself that I can do anything I set my mind too. This has indeed been a very empowering year.

My next goal? I'd like to do a 10k within the next 6 months... I'll let you know how that's going ;)

Hot THX: What V is thankful for this year.

1. My family - Sure, they may not answer their phones sometimes (all the time) but they're supportive and very loving.
2. My boyfriend - He is beyond patient with me and I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful man love me.
3. My friends - Sure, 99% of them live 200+ miles away from me, but they're always a phone call away. (Love you, Carri!)
4. My boyfriend's family - They took me into their home so that I could go after my dream in the big city.
5. Yoga - I have found something I can be healthy with and teaches me about the human body and how mysterious it can be.
6. APDA and Literacy Chicago - The two non-profits I work with. They've given me a greater appreciation of my mind and body.
7. Running - I've fallen in love with it again and it is my #2 outlet for stress.
8. My skin - It is my first layer of protection, and I did it a favor this year by quitting my tanning habit (I know, tsk tsk).
9. Human interaction - I appreciate time in life that isn't spent in front of electronics (Ironic that I say it on a computer, but no one's awake, I swear!). I love face-to-face connections with others.
10. Beautiful days - Days like today (it's in the 50s) are gorgeous and I appreciate the ability to go outside and bask in the sunshine. And shouldn't everyday be beautiful because it is a new day?
Namaste.

If you would like another list of 10 I'd considered posting, visit the Fitness magazine Web site for their list of 10 Healthy Holiday Superfoods. I know you want to.

My Suicide Mission

11/20: So, as I continue to strive toward being a healthier person, I find that I need to try new exercises & foods to keep my motivation going.
Thus, tomorrow, I am going to attend a Bikram Yoga class.

For those of you who don't know, Bikram yoga is all the poses and flexibility you know, but the room is kept at a very high temperature. I have heard of some classrooms being kept at 100 degrees! The classes run 90 minutes each and in essence, it is a 90 minute full body massage.

I don't know a whole lot about it at this time, but I will for sure put up a Part 2 tomorrow after the class. And if you're wondering why I'm doing this, I feel the detoxification will be empowering and leave me glowing and renewed.

See you tomorrow!

11/21: WOW! I read over the things to expect from the Naperville Bikram Yoga class, but I'm not sure anything could have prepared me for that! My first warning sign was walking into the buildingwhile some very sweaty messes were walking out. I bought my 30 day pass (Yes, I'm going back) and headed in to the 100+ degree studio. I found a place in the middle right side and set up my towel and mat like the others had done.

The instructor walked into the room and explained that there would be a breathing exercise, a series of 29 poses, and a closing breathing exercise (it was a 90 minute class). By this point, I was already sweating, but I pushed through. Sure, I had to lay down and just breathe a few times, but I made my goal which was to not leave the room at any point. A very sweaty 90 minutes later I realized I had made it through the entire class, at times feeling nauseous, and left feeling very proud.

As I write this now, I am a little sore, but will surely go back for more. I'm proud of myself and anyone else who can challenge themselves to make it through such a task. Our pats on the back are well deserved. Namaste.

Hot Accessories: Use 'em or Lose 'em

Hot Accessories
1. OPI Nail Polish – used at most salons because of its stay tough attitude (will last through the washing of the dirtiest dishes).
2. Garnier Fructis leave in conditioner – my hair is a frizzy, hot mess when it’s humid out… unless I’m using this.
3. Jergens Gradual Tan facial moisturizer – approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation and gives you a lovely glow.
4. Neutrogena Deep Clean Relaxing Nightly Cleanser – Delish lavender scent and leaves your skin feeling fresh before you hit the hay.
5. Neutrogena Anti-Oxidant Cleanser – It’s never too early to prevent wrinkles!
6. Elastic headbands – Great for exercising and although they stay tight, they’re not tight enough to leave you with a headache.
7. Bath and Body Works Midnight Pomegranate body wash – Looove this scent.
8. Crest White Strips – Work very well, especially in comparison to Listerine Whitening Strips, no offense!
9. Garnier Fructis Body Boost shampoo/conditioner – Love the smell and leaves your hair feeling fuller.
10. C.O. Bigelow Rose Petal lip balm – Can be used on dry lips, knuckles, elbows, etc. AND smells like rose petals!

Hot Haves - Hot Pants (etc.)

Oh, poop. Only been a couple weeks and I already missed a Sunday posting of Hot Haves. Please forgive this busy, busy girl.

1. Victoria’s Secret sports bra – Very sturdy, complete with an adjustable clasp! Even great for bigger puppies.
2. Hard Wear fleece headband – Super warm and is shaped to cover the ears without slippage.
3. Minnetonka moccasins – Mine are pink, but they sell them in several other colors too! Very comfy and durable… I’ve had mine for 2+ years and they’re still in mint condition.
4. Old Navy yoga pants – Great for a pair of long gams. I have 3 pairs…
5. The North Face "Momentum" jacket – Great weight, perfect for runners!
6. Anne Klein black flats – They go with everything. Literally everything.
7. Dresses from Forever21 – Yeah, this is very general. But I have worn their clothes to the ground, and they are of great quality, at a reasonable price!
8. Victoria’s Secret Long Janes – Wow, so cute… with a hint of holiday coziness.
9. Joe’s Jeans – I didn’t know how to describe them, so I’ll just say that your new nickname will be “Hot Ass.” *Splurge*
10. Ralph Lauren basic black pumps – These shoes are not yet in my possession, but they are def on my wish list and I’ve worn them around the store enough to call them mind. Delicious. *Splurge*

So, there you have it. Great ideas of closet additions. Enjoy.

Why I love Moosejaw.

I would have to say my top 5 pet peeves list as:
1. Bad drivers with big cars.
2. Mean/rude people.
3. 1-800 numbers
4. Hearing noises but not knowing the source.
5. Insincere conversations (i.e. “We should hang out soon!”)

That’s why I was so surprised that my #3 didn’t put me over the edge last Tuesday. You see, I ordered a package from Moosejaw on October 10th. I waited a few weeks and it didn’t come. “What the *expletive*!?” I thought to myself. So on Monday night I went over the shipping information again and found that I had listed the wrong address (2644, not 2264). Next came the blushing and mental head slap… then I decided I’d call the next day to figure out where the package had gone.

I called a branch of the (*ahem*) shipping company (not Moosejaw) and someone told me that I needed to call their 1-800 number. So, I called the shipping company’s number and was at a standstill when I needed to enter my tracking number. I pressed “0” (hoping to speak to a real person). After a few times of calling them, I looked up the Moosejaw number. Crap, another 1-800 number! But it wasn’t a recording when I picked up – ALAS! It was a real person! It took, literally, about 5 minutes to figure out the details, the shipment was resent, and I received the package two days later.

So, what is the point of all of this? Moosejaw tries for a customer service program that is out of this world – and they achieve this. With all of this switching to electronic communication, it is important for companies to give customers access to a real person. That voice to voice communication goes a long way. I *heart* Moosejaw.

Hot Haves - Hot Links: Link it or leave it.

1. www.poorlittlerichgirl.com – Haute couture at a not so haute price.
2. www.myopenbar.com – Happy hours in a variety of time zones.
3. www.emptywallet.org – Cheap/free (mostly artsy) things to do in Chicago.
4. www.yelp.com – City hot spots with ratings and comments.
5. www.delicious.com – Find top rated restaurants, products, etc.
6. www.moosejaw.com – The North Face, Patagonia, etc. all at a low, low price.
7. www.galsguide.com - Area info for 20s/30s somethings in Chicago, San Francisco, DC, NYC, Boston, Pittsburgh, Northwest Indiana, Detroit, Milwaukee, San Diego, Minneapolis, & Indianapolis!
8. www.fitnessmagazine.com - You can sign up and keep your workout progress for free! Just one thing among SEVERAL tips, options, etc.
9. www.theonion.com - If you're in the need for a good (dry) laugh!
10. Going with #9, www.thedailyblank.com - "Chicago's Finest Satire"

True Life: I love social media.

I, like any other person my age, became interested in social media when I began college. Facebook was still new (and closed to those not attending college) and it seemed like a great way to stay connected. Especially since I was (and have been since Freshman year at NIU) four hours away from all of my good friends. Look at me now, giving a presentation on how social media can be useful for a business or organization. I think the reason I like social media so much is that I find it absolutely fascinating how one can market his or her business (or self) on the internet.

During my current internship with Literacy Chicago, I’ve studied more tricks and uses of social media – specifically Facebook and Twitter – and believe it is extremely beneficial for a company or organization to use social media. The presentation I gave at Literacy Chicago is a very simple presentation on the basics of social media and how these sites (Facebook and Twitter) can help a business or organization grow. Of course, the presentation is specifically for Literacy Chicago, but if you would like a copy, you can email me at vemccoy.blogspot@gmail.com.

Hmm… beginning to wonder if Kate is right and that I should look into freelancing...

The Multi-blogger.

Hey friends! Just thought I'd give you a heads up on my new blog (in addition to, not in the place of, this one). It's http://theprhopeful.blogspot.com I'm moving my Resume project there, and I'll be discussing PR trends, etc. I'm doing so to avoid any confusion as to where this blog is going (PR, yoga, nutrition, etc?). So be sure to check it out and have a nice night!

The New Sunday Thang - Hot Minute Hot Haves

1. Super Chill Seltzer water – lime flavored. A delish way of getting in those H2O ounces, and no aspartame (as found in some flavored waters and diet colas).
2. Cherry Flavored Carmex – the smooth Carmex feel without the petroleum taste.
3. Dark Chocolate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – a tad different from the original, but you don’t feel as guilty about eating the chocolate.
4. Saucony running shoes – SUPER comfy and have great traction for running outside.
5. The North Face Denali jacket – durable and much warmer than it looks – great for the Windy City.
6. Spinach & Feta omelets – I know, it’s not a purchasable item, but I still love it.
7. Gaiam yoga mats – went to yoga 2x this week and I couldn’t have done it without them.
8. Special K snack bars – Chocolately Pretzel – a salty and sweet in one… delish.
9. Diet Coke – classic tasty.
10. Bath & Body Works Anti-bacterial Foam hand wash – delicious scents & keeps away the flu.

I've got HIIIIGH hopes!

Ugh, so I lied. I have indeed NOT been keeping up with this blog. For a while there, I just hadn't felt motivated to write.
For the past 8 years I had been a very motivated, get up and go person. I always kept myself busy with sports and extra-curricular activities in high school. Then I headed off to college, where I was busy with new people, the Public Relations Student Society of America, Student Alumni Association... oh, and classes.
Then one day, it stopped.

POOF! Just like that. That day, was graduation.

I realized that my title had changed from college student to just plain unemployed. I was talking to my roommate (AKA my boyfriend's mother) about this. She said that one of the hardest times she has ever been through, was the first year after she had graduated college. EVERYTHING changes. My best friend (and loyal blog subscriber) is in the same position as myself. Moving back home wasn't exactly an option and we hadn't yet received our glamorous $50,000/year jobs. (K, so we still haven't...) It is a time when one has to be at their peak of motivation, but thinking about how tough it is all going to be can be very... unmotivating.

Luckily, I have turned a new leaf. I have a temporary, part-time position as an Administrative Assistant with the American Parkinson Disease Association Young Onset Center and just received a Social Media Internship with Literacy Chicago.
I have begun my apartment hunting in the Chicago area and hope that my current endeavors lead to future ones.

Quick brush-up for my fellow hunters:

As I was packing up my room for the big move, I came upon some PRSSA papers. As I shuffled through them, I found a list of interview tips that I had copied from our past Vice President.

They read:
-Research the company prior to the interview
-Have detailed answers about accomplishments
-Be honest
-Seal the deal - "Based on our conversation, how do you feel I matched up?"

I feel these are all accurate, yet for the time we are in ("we" being job hunters and "time" being the recession)... we should be even more prepared. I know some of the following tips I'm going to share aren't new. But hearing them again may help refresh your memory and your interview approach.

*For a PR interview, talk about new business (new clients, new revenue)
*Have a couple of questions prepared, but also listen to the interviewer for anything that may spark new questions
*Turn off your phone before the interview and avoid bringing it up via social media (i.e. Tweeting, "Nailed the interview!")
*Write a hand written thank you note to the interviewer and send it ASAP

No, I'm not an expert on interviews or careers, but you'd be surprised as to how many people forget these details!

Write and wrong

So, this is what I'm thinking. Although my topics of conversation are often very random, so are my blog posts. I'm either voicing my opinion (environmentally "sound") or having my Cosmo "B*itch it out" moment. So, although my knowledge of pop-culture and news is broad, I need to think of ways to specify what I talk about.
I kind of liked my environmentally sound blog because going green is something I feel passionate about. But, I need to skip over posts like the PRSSA VP thing because I felt it came off too valedictorian-esque. I think it is easier to talk about things in a timely manner. If I had posted blogs about PRSSA throughout the year, there would have been many posts of how I feel a student run should (and should NOT) address projects and problems.
Yes, I started this blog to keep my writing fresh and maybe get out any bad energy I have toward something that's hot in the world. But if I'm going to have any readers (I know that I at least have Carri), I should try to make it a good time for them.

VA M.I.A.

Wow! It has been quite a while since my last post! I'm sure my loyal followers have wondered about where I have been over the past couple of months. Here is my tale. It all began with the craziness that is called final examination week at NIU. After which, I was a tad busy with graduation and being whisked away to Europe for a while. When I returned from Italy and France, I discovered that the "B" and "N" keys on my laptop were no longer working. What luck! Since then, I have been borrowing my roommates' computers to try and keep up with my internet accounts. And can I just say... it's awful! I am just glad I've had this experience to remind myself how lucky I have been to have my own computer over the past 6 years. (Yes, she was an oldie but a goodie!)

environmentally "sound"

Although the event that prompted this blog is a bit dated, I felt the topic appropriate for today.
A couple of weeks ago, a few of the anti-wind turbine activists came to speak about grassroots lobbying. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how much information the guests actually offered on grassroots lobbying. What they did offer were reasons why they felt having wind turbines in Dekalb and Lee County was a poor idea. Their main argument was this... The sound from the turbines is a nuisance. It is also their understanding that the turbines create very little energy.
Now, I find the first to be a simple gripe. The second is the result of research that may or may not be accurate. The thing that is important to me, however, is not a list of excuses of why something like wind energy shouldn't be created. What is important to me, and many others I've spoken with, is accompanying those excuses, with alternatives.
It is fine to oppose suggestions such as wind energy in the attempt of solving the Earth's energy crisis. But keep in mind that the situation is not going to go away. We need to figure out a way to help our world, even through trial and error. I am sorry to say that I am fresh out of ideas. Until I find a way to save the planet, I'll keep doing my part by recycling, using energy efficient light bulbs, etc.
Thank you for your time... and have a great earth day.

Follow the Leader

As I finish my duties as the PRSSA Vice President at NIU, I reflect on the opportunities I've encountered over the past year.
I've set up visits to three fantastic PR firms in Chicago and completed some charity work here and there. I attended as many PRSA dinners as my schedule allowed, as well as any events our chapter arranged. That's all great. However, I'm not writing today to list what the Vice President's job entails. I want to discuss going above and beyond.
It is my belief, that (within reason, of course) any dream can be lived. It is also my belief that not enough people are succeeding in doing such. At the firm visits, I made sure to speak with the PR professionals and I networked at charity events as well. I didn't quietly eat my dinner then leave when the event was over, I spoke with PRSA members and tried getting to know the members of my PRSSA chapter.
I have met so many fabulous people over the past year. People who have been mentors, colleagues, and just plain friends. I have several to consult with as I venture toward a Public Relations career. And as I look over what I have learned this year, I did not have these opportunities handed due to my title in the organization, I sought out these opportunities. Opportunities to better myself as a leader, a team player, and as I work out any networking "kinks" I may have.
So, if you are to follow my leadership, really get yourself involved... you may just meet some fabulous people along the way.

"I like my money where I can see it; hangin' in my closet."

I’ve always been the positive one, the “eternal optimist.” After paying $45 at Victoria’s Secret on a few key items, I rejoice for the “free” tote I received with my purchase. After falling down a flight of stairs, I cheer for the quarter I find at the bottom of it.
So, of course, after a frustrating day of job searching, I was more than delighted to find out that Kristin Davis is starting a fashion line. I couldn’t be more thrilled, I have adored her style since I first became a fan of Sex and the City. The best part about the line is that it will be affordable and mirrors her timeless look.
So sorry today’s blog is more directed toward women, but I was just too excited. Now if you don’t mind, I think I’ll kick off my shoes and check out the creative mind of Patricia Field in action on my fictional mentor, Charlotte – my fellow “eternal optimist.”

Talking 'bout my generation...

In my advanced public relations class, we researched the "Millennials" for our midterm project. I was somewhat offended by what my elders had to say about my generation. A couple of the descriptive phrases that struck me were, "self-confidence to the point of appearing cocky" and we were often referred to as "Generation Me."
Since then, I've paid more attention to the actions of my peers. I do a "mental head slap" (as one of my favorite authors, Janet Evanovich would put it) as a classmate struggles to transfer her video camera to the projector, later realizing the camera was not on. I listen to the guy who sits next to me complain about not having any luck on his job search, but is looking forward to getting drunk every night of the upcoming weekend.
Maybe it is fair to call us the "Everyone Gets an Award Generation." Yes, I do see several peers, and I'd like to include myself, be all that we can be (in the non-military sense). Overall, however, I can see from where the Baby-boomers and Generation X are coming. We need to spend more time motivating ourselves to succeed instead of expecting rewards without efforts.
Still... all my love, Millennials. And good luck. We're going to need it.

Look, ma! I'm blogging!

Upon having the importance of blogging brought to my attention yet again, I have decided to begin my own blog. Yes, I know that I already blog for our PRSSA chapter, but I do not feel that is enough.

Why “hot minute?” I made a list of things I like and a list of phrases I use. If I am running late to meet up with my friends, I tell them, “I’ll be there in a hot minute.” They seem to find this phrase both humorous and unique. I hope to bring these qualities to my blog, among other things. Also, my goal is to make each entry readable in under a minute.

I will probably most often blog about my favorite things: the environment, fashion, food, and public relations. Hopefully, my readers will find at least one of these things entertaining. If not, come back soon and maybe I’ll have broadened my horizons…