black history month.

All month I have been thinking of a way to incorporate Black History Month into my blog. February is well.... basically over. Happy Leap Day, everyone! It won't be back for another 4 years, so make it count. 

"Leap Day" episode flashback to How I Met Your Mother.

As a kid, well a black kid, I never truly understood why black's had a month for their history. I mean like I felt awesome cause who doesn't want a month to themselves. But as I get older and have grown up I wanted to take a minute to really understand why. Why is there a proclaimed month for blacks?

Black History month started way back in 1915 with Carter G. Woodson and a minister Jesse E. Moorland. They founded an organization that was dedicated to researching achievements by black Americans and blacks from other descents. With the help of the organization, Woodson and Moorland sponsored a national Negro Week in 1926. Trying to pick a week with great significance they choose the second week in February to honor Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass. 

Years later mayors of cities across the US started issuing one week for Negro Week. In the late 1960, thanks to the Civil Right Movement, many people had a growing awareness of black identity and Negro Week evolved to Black History Month on several college campuses. In 1976, President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month. He called to the public saying, "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history." 

There you have it! That's where this month came from. Two black men who just wanted a little bit of recognition, and boy did it amount to something great. Black people continue to break down walls and barriers making the future brighter than before! There are a TON of amazing black people who have made history but here are some that I continue to look up to today.

1. Viola Davis. 

She was the FIRST Black Woman to win an Emmy for a drama. (I know I posted about this before but how can I now put this here again?) I know I can achieve my dreams with the amazing roles models like her leading my path. She is helping me remember that my skin may be different but I can create opportunity for myself no matter what. 

2. Martin Luther King Jr. I mean.... Need I say more?

(This is only a tiny piece of the speech, cause it's very long) Soak in those dreams! Martin Luther King Jr. Literally dreamed of this bright future that I live in now.  I get teary thinking of what life would have been like if Martin didn't share his dream.

3. President Barack Obama and Michelle. History made. First Black President and First Lady. 

4. Tiana, Princess and The Frog. My personal fave. 

I can already here it.. "Olivia she is fictional." sure but people can still look up to fictional people. Her hard work keeps me in check and reminding me that it takes hard work to make dreams come true. 

5. Jesse Owens. 

Proved to that Hitler's "superior race" could be beaten. Also the first American to win 4 gold medals at a single Olympics. This is the teaser for the new movie RACE all about Jesse Owens. I'm dying to see it because it looks amazing!

6. Ray Charles. 

The "High Priest of Soul" Blind and could play like there was no tomorrow. He started growing blind at age 7. In 2004, Rolling Stones  ranked him number ten on the "100 Greatest Artist of All Time".

7. Oprah Winfrey.

I have always looked up to her. My mom loves Oprah and I feel like I grew up with the Oprah show always on. With her magazine, her books and her sayings to guide us. She is a mentor and friend and a giver. She grew up with nothing and now has so much she that she continues to give. 

9. Maya Angelou.

She passed away in 2014, leaving holes in all our hearts. She was a poet and author. She inspired so many people and wrote about her life. She had lived through so much and needed to tell her story.

10. Beyoncé.

I mean Beyoncé is queen. But she has done do much for the black community regarding music. She was the first woman to win 6 Grammy's in one night. First black women to be on the September cover of Vogue. 

These people remind me to live to my fullest self to own being black and to love it. 

Thanks to Buzzfeed here are some awesome articles and videos I love about being black. 

19 Black Characters Who've Shaped Us

I'm Black, but I'm not...

22 Black Women Who Prove They Have Been Magical Forever

Stay excellent-

Liv

All videos courtesy of YouTube and photos from Google.

best day of the week.

For some reason I was just so happy when I came home from school today, and I'm not really sure why? Maybe it's because I was home from school... Yep that has to be it! But Wednesdays have always been my favorite day of the week, because we only have one day until Friday. I know we all count Friday as part of the weekend, right?? Why wouldn't you count it as an extra day? The weekend we get to relax and just veg, hopefully do more play than we do work. Huh, that's the dream, isn't it? But today I thought I would post and maybe spread some of the happiness that I felt today. Here are 6 things to keep you smiling for rest of the week! (Because I know they lift my spirits)

1. One Direction's new music video. *tear falls on keyboard* I mean the last single/music video before their hiatus and they choose History. Talk about emotions. But I can't speak because my fangirl is crying. Brb. 

I mean look how precious?! 

2. I did a photoshoot with my very talented friend Megan! Seriously check her out, she's basically a pro and I adore her face.  Here's a peak at the shoot we did!

3.  I follow way too many Instagram accounts about French Bulldogs. But I mean how can you not?!

Seriously? Look at those ears!

4.  Have you ladies heard Sia's new song?? You haven't? Well go listen! Seriously! Unstoppable. So. Good. 

"I'm unstoppable. I'm a Porsche with no brakes. I'm invincible and I win every single game. I'm so powerful, I don't need batteries to play. I'm so confident. I'm unstoppable today." Seriously this has been on repeat all day. 

5. The Panic! At The Disco album is so so good! I haven't been a fan since I was an angsty teen but I'm totally on board again. 

Death of a Bachelor is definitely my fave.

and finally

6. It's 2016, time to make some crazy new memories. A year ago I was in Rome and I'm so happy I was able to have that time abroad. Of course I miss it, like crazy! But it was the best experience for me and I'm dying to go back!

This was taken exactly a year ago. We went to Burger King because we were missing home... And now I'm home and am missing Rome. Irony is silly isn't it?? 

Chan, I know I've said this like a billion times but we gotta go back! I miss living with you and pushing our beds together to watch cheesy movies. "Sweet sassy molassy" But I'll see you soon!! Galentines Day year 3!! All day son, all day! 

Stay excellent-

Liv

i guess i just love to write.

Hello readers, and internet world! I want to tell you about something that I have been doing for the past couple months and how it's helped me grow. I write for a motivational magazine called BE WISE. It has been so inspiring to work with them and write articles for them. For 2016, our Editor had the idea, that every edition we publish would be a certain focus on Being Your Best Self. So every month has a certain topicto help us be the best we can be. For January it was Being Your Best Self: Physically. You can find more out about this movement- here.

I can't believe I have had the chance to write for them these past couple months! It's been the best, and I love it so much. Ever since I started writing for them I have seen may different aspects in my life in a different light. I have been able to be more confident with who I am and what I want to become. I found myself loving writing and getting a new topic every month and sitting down and thinking "What do the readers need to hear from me this month?" It's nice having more places where I can share my thoughts about being the best you, and how I have been able to accomplish it too. This magazine is so great, and it'll always have a special place in my heart. Everyone go check it out! Also if you feel like buying it, in the "Note to Seller (Optional)" box go ahead and put my name there. If you do that, that would be stellar!! Hey, I know what you're thinking, but self promotion is good! 

Seriously it's so worth getting! Inspiring words for everyone who needs them. Its been a blast writing for this great team, and I can't wait to write more!

Stay excellent,
-Liv

random tandems.

Do you have a movie or a book, that transports you and it gives you a little extra lift to believe in yourself and life again? 

Yeah me too. I have one movie that I know without a doubt will help me believe in myself again and revitalize my love for everything. Pride & Prejudice. Now I'm talking the 2005 version with Keira Knightley, in her all perfect glory. This movie has it all. Beautiful music, stunning scenery, full plot and developing characters you learn to love. I can watch this movie every day and not get sick of it. I mean what's not to love, and I don't just love it because of the amazing love story (yes yes, i'm a romantic. sue me). But something about it just makes me so happy! I'll admit it, it was a rough day today and I knew that I needed Pride & Prejudice was just want the doctor ordered. It's funny how certain things can just change the pace of you day and make you feel completely lighter. 

It has also occurred to me that this time last year I was getting ready for what was going to be the best semester of my life. I was about to start a new chapter of my life in Rome with my best friend. It's crazy to think that was a year ago. Man, how things change. The other day I went back and re-read all my posts about everything and I just wanted to cry! I miss my study abroad but I'm so happy for what it taught me and how I was able to become better. Also.... there were some typos in there and it was a little embarrassing to find them now.... I swear I read the posts out load before clicking publish. 

Today was a relaxing Sunday, filled with reading, movies and naps. May Monday bring you good vibes and happy times.  

Here's a pretty picture of a flower wall.

Until next time,

-O

P.S. If anyone has any fun ways of organizing iPhone apps on their home screen, I need a new way to do it. So let me know, yeah?? Thanks! 

tired feet, tired mind.

Today was a weird day. I was awoken (is that even a word?) from a perfect slumber, by my loving aunt, telling me I look like Aunt Jemima.... I mean as wonderful as that is to hear in the morning, I wasn't about it. She proceeded to sit on my bed and tell me about the announcement the LDS church made yesterday. I'm sure you've all heard about it by now?? --That underage children of same-sex couples are not eligible for memberships into the LDS faith until legal age--First I must make a disclaimer for everyone. I love this gospel, and I LOVE MY FAMILY. I am not posting this to anger anyone, it's just on my mind and I work through things best when I write about them.

After I absorbed the information and read the article for myself, I was shocked, angered and heart-broken because this hit close to home. I didn't fully understand what I was supposed to be taking away from this announcement. I'm hoping that more information is to come, because I know this will not only effected me, but members all over the world.

For all the people who are posting their opinions and saying harsh words about members of the church or people in same-sex relationships. Please stop. Not all people are bad. You can have an opinion all you want, but what about the people its effecting. Me. Possibly your neighbor. A brother. A friend. I am a member of this gospel and I have members of my family in same-sex relationships. They are my family, and I love them with all my might and soul. My brave mom is an wonderful person. She raised me to have an open mind about everything. She helped me convert to the church when I was 13.When I had questions, she was there to answer them. She adopted me when I was 4 days old. She's my hero, my best friend, my best example, and my comforter.

I love you, mom. Simple and plain. Love forever and ever.

I don't fully understand what the reasoning behind this new "rule", but my head has been spinning all day. People asking me if I'm okay, telling me they love me, telling me that our leaders know what's best. And I believe them, I really do. But right now I'm not going to lie, my faith is a little bit shaken. I'm hoping that there will be more clarity on this subject, because I love this gospel and I love my family.

Until next time,
-O

wishing.

Do you ever just want to revamp your life and add some new things??? Maybe flit off to a new place, change your hair, buy an adorable dog, and achieve your dream job....Yeah me too. Sometimes I spend hours on Pinterest and Tumblr, looking at all the cute things I want to do. Today I'm sharing my secret life with the vast internet. 

Wishing this was my view ever morning.

Wishing this was my daily walk to work. 

I really want this outfit.... Also I want like like 10,000 dollars to revamp my whole wardrobe. 

Flawless... that is all. 

Waiting on the day when I have enough money to buy this perfect French Bulldog. 

Have you guys watched Viola Davis's Emmy Acceptance Speech??? If not you need to go watch it. She will forever be my role model. She is an amazing woman and actress. Thank you for making history for colored women today Viola. 

Here's a little reminder to be yourself through and through.

Until next time,
-O

greatness.

Today was...special. As all Sundays are. I was sitting in bed trying to decide whether or not to go to church today. The normal excuses started to fill my mind. "I'm still super tired. My bed is unbelievably comfy" Very sad, silly reasons to not to go church. But then I found myself crawling out of bed, and putting on make up. I told myself I was going to go and enjoy myself, and I did. I think my heart knew that there was something I really needed to hear today, and I am so very happy I didn't stay home. I choose to listen to my heart and follow the spirit.

Today was testimony meeting, and many people were getting up to share what they knew and believed. As I was sitting there reflecting silently to myself, a girl stood up and started reading my favorite hymn. "How Great Thou Art". I am sure everyone knows the lyrics but I feel promoted to share them now. 

O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

And when I think of God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And lead me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow with humble adoration,
And then proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art! 

My heart is beaming as I am reading over that again. After reading the hymn this girl proceeded to say something that has stuck with me all day. She said "I am truly humbled that someone so great, sees greatness in me." That was so powerful to me. Our Savior does see greatness in all of us and he knows our full potential. Whenever we are filled with doubt, sadness, fear, sorrow, grief, joy, or anything we can turn to our Savior and He will be there to comfort us or be happy with us. He will wipe away my tears and lift me when I am low. He knows what I can accomplish and he sees the best in all of us. 

We need to keep our eyes focused on Christ, and we will never waiver. Life can get scary and we can get caught up in the worldly things. In Sunday School we learned about fear in a conference talk this past April. Fear can over come us and we can get blind sighted. We named some common fears that we as young adults have like: the future, dating, school, student loans, job market, and other things. We then listed ways we could over come those fears. We decided that we would need faith and trust in our Lord. Fear and Faith cannot exist together, because when we are fearing we are not trusting in God's plan. This great and all powerful being knows what is in store for us, yet we continue to second guess Him. I do it too, because I am nowhere near being perfect. But I aspire to be more like Him every day. Some days are hard and I just take it one step at a time. 

Today helped me to check in and think where I am at. I fear a lot of things in this world. The world has gotten very hard for our generation but I know that we are all here to make a difference. We are strong and capable of change. We just have to take it one step at a time. Through the Savior I can do hard things. We just need to keep our eyes focused on Him. I was so grateful for this lesson because it really hit home. I know I can be doing more to stay focused on the Savior. He will silence my fears, lift me up, make me smile, and He will continue to make me brave. 

Until next time,

-O