One Good Turn Deserves Another

Yes, I'm alive! =D

After almost a month of little to no posting, here I am. There have been a variety of reasons why I've been AWOL for all this time, and I plan to delve into those reason over the next few posts. But for now I just want to thank everyone for sticking with me and encouraging me along the way. I know that when it comes right down to it, I blog for myself, but I've also come to realize that I blog because of this awesome community of bloggers I've met, and with whom I've only scratched the surface. YOU inspire and motivate me, and for that I'm grateful.

It is therefore fitting that my blogger return begins with the (albeit overdue) announcement of my first blogger award!

A few days ago, I popped over to Ariana's fantastic blog, Fatale Fashion, and I read - much to my humbling surprise - that she was passing the "Your Blog is Breathtaking" award to me! Thank you so much, Ariana! It has been the perfect inspiration to get me back into the blogger groove!

As per the rules, I will answer a few questions, and then pass the award on to some of my favorites. So here I go!

 

1. What inspires you?

I am by training a musician and a music historian (a musicologist) and only a few short years ago I was immersed in the study of all things classical music, whether it was to teach my undergrad classes or to prepare to pass my prelims and begin to write my dissertation. My life has started to move in a slightly different direction, but I am still surrounded by amazing music and musicians, and when I'm fortunate enough to attend a few concerts, I never cease to be amazed by how much music can move me.

Warm, sunny days also do wonders to inspire me, as do my wonderful friends, whether those in real life or the blogisphere. =)

2. What is your favorite season and why?

As a Midwesterner all my life, I think I've learned to appreciate things about all of the seasons. I mean, how else would we survive?? Hahaha.  I think spring is my favorite season, though - especially the first burst of green that announces its arrival. So much life and possibility! And when you've had to endure a blistering winter, it is such a reward! On the other hand, there is so much to love about the winter holidays, and I'd waxed poetic about that in a few posts over the season already. =) The warmth, colors, and sounds of Christmas get me all sappy inside!

3. What are you most looking forward to this year?

I mentioned above that my life is taking a few different turns as of late, so I'm looking forward to really deciding where I'm going, once and for all. =) I also looking forward to paying off large chunks of debt!!!

4. If you could write a book about anything, what would you write about?

If I were to write anything of length, it would be my dissertation on the 19th century Russian composer, Sergei Rakhmaninov.

5. What is your greatest passion? 

I sometimes forget it, I really do, but music has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot deny that it is still a great passion of mine. But, I also take pride in and feel very strongly about honing my own personal style, and perhaps even helping others do the same. Hence this blog. =)

6. If you could change one thing about your life or yourself what would it be and why? 

I've been a curvy girl my entire life, or at least since the 4th grade. It's something I've lived with but never really accepted, sadly enough. Incidentally, that's one of the other main reasons I started this blog, but old habits die hard. I have rejoined Weight Watchers, however (as those of you who follow me on Twitter already know), and I'd like to really make a difference with myself - my weight, my health, my overall self-acceptance - through the program, as I had started to once upon a time 3 years ago.

I would ALSO like to get rid of all debt (and all on reliance on credit) other than student loans - which might never go away. =7

7. Lastly, what is your favorite novel? 

I'm a thirty-something who must admit that I continue to read and reread the Harry Potter series (especially Book 7). It's my comfortable blanket that tucks me in every night before I fall asleep. But, I also have to say that the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky, especially the Brothers Karamozov, have had a tremendous influence on me, so once again I must list two. (Though can they BE more opposite!?!)

I sure did break these rules by listing at least 2 things for every answer, didn't I.... =7

And now, the fabulous ladies I would like to pass the "Your Blog is Breathtaking!" award goes to:

1. Sara of Bombshell Beauty
2. Hilary of By Hillary
3. Tania of What Would a Nerd Wear
4. Erin of Work With What You've Got
5. Natalie of When Life Hands You a Pear...
6. Kyla of Blue Collar Catwalk
7. Clare of Between Laundry Days 

All of these girls are far more established bloggers than myself, but I just wanted to pass on this award as a token of thanks for all they've done to inspire me, even if they don't know it!

There are SO many more others, but then the list would be too long! And though they both already received the award, I would still like to give a shout out to Ariana of FATale Fashion and U. of Curvy Everyday!

Thanks for reading, everyone! 

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