Unveiling the Woman Behind the Blog: 25 Personal Insights from Stylish Cravings

Remember that social media trend from a few years back, where everyone was sharing “25 Things About Me” on Facebook? While I’m not tagging anyone for a chain reaction, I’ve always felt it’s important for you, my cherished readers, to truly get to know the person behind the screen. As an introvert who tends to be a bit shy, finding genuine ways to connect and share aspects of my personal journey can be a challenge. That’s precisely why I embarked on this blogging adventure with Stylish Cravings—to create a space where I can share insights, passions, and a little bit of myself. This post is part one of a special series, designed to pull back the curtain and offer a glimpse into the multifaceted person I am. It might sound a little cheesy, but I believe authenticity fosters the strongest connections, and I’m genuinely excited to share these candid reflections with you.

My Journey in Fashion and Beyond

1. My Educational Path: From Fashion Design to Merchandising

My academic journey began at the prestigious Fashion Institute, where I initially delved into fashion design. I was captivated by the creative process, the intricate details, and the artistry involved in bringing a vision to life. However, I quickly realized that while I admired the craft, the hands-on design wasn’t my ultimate calling. My passion truly lay in understanding the business side of fashion, how trends are formed, how products reach consumers, and the strategic elements of the industry. This led me to pivot my major to fashion merchandising, a decision that felt incredibly right and laid a strong foundation for my future endeavors in the fashion world.

2. A Decade at Nordstrom’s and the Genesis of Fashiongrail

For over ten enriching years, I had the incredible opportunity to work at Nordstrom’s, experiencing nearly every department imaginable. Each role offered unique insights into customer service, retail operations, and the nuances of various product categories. My absolute favorite department, surprisingly to some, was men’s shoes – a testament to the diverse appeal of fashion! I even underwent comprehensive training for management, aspiring to lead my dream department: Juniors. However, just as that coveted opportunity opened up, life presented a beautiful detour: I became pregnant. The demanding hours of retail management became incompatible with my new priorities, and with a full heart, I decided to step away. It was shortly after this pivotal life moment that my creative energy found a new outlet, leading to the birth of my first blog, Fashiongrail, where I could continue to explore and share my love for fashion on my own terms.

The Little Things: Pet Peeves and Quirks

3. My Quirky Pet Peeves

We all have those small things that just rub us the wrong way, and I’m no exception. Two particular pet peeves stand out for me. First, I find the sound of people whistling quite grating. It’s a personal thing, but the sharp, often off-key notes can really get on my nerves. Secondly, I have a distinct aversion to lending out my clothes, and even more so, my jewelry. These are personal items, often chosen with great care and sometimes carrying sentimental value, and I prefer to keep them exclusively to myself. It’s not about being selfish, but rather about a preference for maintaining the integrity and personal connection with my belongings.

4. A Lifelong Fascination with Human Psychology

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been utterly fascinated by human psychology. The intricate workings of the mind, the motivations behind behavior, and the complexities of human interaction have always captivated me. I love observing people, trying to understand different perspectives, and delving into the ‘why’ behind actions and emotions. This natural curiosity has not only enriched my personal relationships but also offered a unique lens through which I view the world, constantly seeking deeper understanding in every interaction and observation.

Hidden Talents and Honest Confessions

5. The One Skill I Haven’t Mastered: Swimming

Despite my adventurous spirit in many other areas, one fundamental life skill has always eluded me: I can’t swim. It’s something I’ve always wanted to learn, a quiet ambition that remains on my personal bucket list. While I enjoy being near the water and appreciate its beauty, the thought of deep water without the ability to navigate it confidently has always been a barrier. Perhaps one day I’ll conquer this fear and finally embrace the freedom of the open water, but for now, I’m perfectly content admiring it from a safe distance.

6. My Dream: Living on a Farm Surrounded by Animals

My love for animals runs incredibly deep, and my ultimate dream is to live on a farm. I envision a life surrounded by rescued animals—goats, chickens, horses, dogs, and cats—each with their own story and personality. There’s something incredibly grounding and fulfilling about connecting with nature and caring for creatures. The tranquility, the responsibility, and the unconditional love that animals offer are profoundly appealing to me. It’s a vision of sustainable living, peaceful mornings, and the simple joy of coexistence that I hope to achieve one day.

7. A Candid Confession: I Curse a Lot!

Let’s be honest: I have a bit of a potty mouth. It’s a habit I’ve developed over the years, and while I try to rein it in during formal settings or around children, in casual conversation, a colorful word or two often slips out. It’s part of my expressive nature, a way to emphasize a point or convey strong emotion, and it’s something my close friends and family have come to affectionately accept as just ‘me.’ It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s an honest reflection of my personality.

8. My Childhood Dream Family: The Roseanne Connection

When I was little, I harbored a rather unconventional dream for my future family: I wanted one just like the Conners from the TV show Roseanne. I know, it might sound a little weird, especially considering their often chaotic and unconventional dynamics. But what resonated deeply with me was their raw authenticity, their unwavering love for each other despite their struggles, and their ability to find humor in everyday life. They were a real family, flawed and fierce, and that genuine, down-to-earth connection was something I deeply admired and wished for in my own life.

9. Embracing the Joy of Dance, Despite My Lack of Skill

I absolutely adore dancing, even though I’m not particularly good at it! There’s something incredibly liberating about moving to music, letting the rhythm take over, and simply enjoying the moment. Whether it’s at a party, in my living room, or just walking down the street with headphones on, dancing is a pure expression of joy for me. It’s not about technique or perfection; it’s about feeling the beat, letting go, and embracing the sheer happiness that movement brings. My motto is: if the music moves you, just dance!

10. A Significant Personal Journey: My Weight Transformation

One chapter of my life that profoundly shaped me involved my weight. At one point, I weighed 230 pounds, a significant number that carried its own set of challenges and lessons. This period was a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and eventually, transformation. It taught me invaluable lessons about self-care, discipline, and the deep connection between physical and emotional well-being. While it was a challenging time, it ultimately led me to a healthier path and a deeper appreciation for my body and my overall health.

Family, Food, and Firm Beliefs

11. My Cherished Stepson: A Bond Beyond Blood

I am incredibly proud to say that I have a 23-year-old stepson from my previous marriage, and I consider him my son in every sense of the word. I had the privilege of helping raise him, and our bond is one built on love, respect, and shared experiences. He has grown into an amazing young man, full of curiosity and a zest for life. If you’re interested in following his incredible adventures and global travels, you can read all about his journeys and perspectives on his personal blog. His passion for exploration is truly inspiring.

12. The Unspoken Rule: Don’t Share My Food

This might sound a little particular, but one of my definite preferences is not sharing my food. When a delicious meal is in front of me, I tend to get a bit possessive! It’s not about being rude; it’s just that I genuinely enjoy savoring every bite of my own plate without feeling the need to divide it up. It’s a small quirk, but one that my loved ones have come to understand and respect. So, if we’re dining together, rest assured I’ll be enjoying my meal thoroughly, and you should too!

13. My Comfort Companion: A Stuffed Frog

In a charmingly quirky detail of my adult life, I still sleep with a stuffed frog. This little amphibian friend has been a constant companion since childhood, a source of comfort and familiarity. It’s a small, sentimental reminder of simpler times and a testament to the enduring power of childhood attachments. In a world that’s constantly changing, having that small, unchanging comfort object by my side brings a quiet sense of peace and nostalgia.

14. A Candid Self-Assessment: Bossy, Type A, Yet Sweet

I’ll be the first to admit that I can be bossy and am definitely a true Type A personality. I have a clear vision of how things should be, and if I don’t get my way, I might occasionally throw a minor fit! I’m driven, organized, and prefer to have things done efficiently and correctly. However, beneath that assertive exterior, I’m actually pretty sweet. I care deeply about people, I’m loyal, and my intentions always come from a place of wanting the best outcome. It’s a dynamic mix, but it’s genuinely who I am.

15. A Crucial Dietary Restriction: Shellfish Allergy

On a more serious note, I have a severe allergy to shellfish. This isn’t just a preference; it’s a medical condition that requires careful attention to my diet. It means I always have to be vigilant when dining out or trying new foods, ensuring there’s no cross-contamination. While it can sometimes be a bit restrictive, I’ve learned to navigate it gracefully, always prioritizing my health and safety. It’s a reminder of how important it is to be aware of one’s body and its unique needs.

16. The Practice of Gratitude: My Daily Journal

One of my most cherished daily practices is maintaining a gratitude journal. Each day, I take a few moments to write down things I’m thankful for, no matter how big or small. This simple act has profoundly shifted my perspective, helping me to focus on the positive aspects of life and cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation. It’s a powerful tool for mindfulness and a constant reminder that even on challenging days, there is always something to be grateful for, fostering a more optimistic and content outlook.

Personality, Passions, and Principles

17. The Paradox of My Personality: Friendly and Extremely Shy

My personality often presents a fascinating paradox: I am very friendly, yet at the same time, extremely shy. When I meet new people, I genuinely enjoy connecting and engaging in conversation. However, there’s an underlying shyness that sometimes makes initiating those interactions difficult, or makes me appear reserved until I feel comfortable. Once that initial barrier is broken, my friendly nature shines through, but it’s a constant dance between wanting to connect and overcoming that innate sense of reticence. It’s a journey of balancing my desire for connection with my natural introverted tendencies.

18. My Preferred Social Circle: Hanging Out with Guys

When it comes to social gatherings, I often find myself gravitating towards groups of guys. While I cherish my female friendships deeply, there’s a certain ease and dynamic in male company that I particularly enjoy. I find conversations can sometimes be more direct, less prone to drama, and often revolve around different topics that I find engaging. It’s not a slight against women, but rather a personal preference for a certain type of social interaction that I’ve found to be a comfortable fit for my personality.

19. A Specific Indulgence: My Love for Hennessy

Let’s just say, I love me some Hennessy! It’s a specific indulgence that I truly enjoy, appreciating its rich flavor and the sophisticated experience it offers. Whether it’s enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a well-crafted cocktail, Hennessy has a distinct appeal that resonates with my personal taste. It’s one of those little pleasures that I allow myself, contributing to the tapestry of my unique preferences and enjoyments.

20. My Favorite Music Genre: Bachata

When it comes to music, my heart beats to the rhythm of Bachata. This romantic genre, originating from the Dominican Republic, with its soulful guitars, captivating melodies, and often melancholic lyrics, deeply moves me. There’s an undeniable passion and emotional depth in Bachata that speaks directly to my soul. Whether I’m listening to it for relaxation, for dancing (despite my earlier confession about my skill!), or simply to set a mood, Bachata always holds a special place in my playlist and brings immense joy.

21. My Strong Stance Against Excuses and Procrastination

Two things I truly cannot stand are excuses and leaving things for later. I believe in taking responsibility, addressing challenges head-on, and getting things done efficiently. Procrastination, to me, is a thief of time and potential, while excuses only serve to hinder progress. I strive to live by a proactive approach, tackling tasks with determination and avoiding the trap of delaying what can be done today. This principle guides both my personal and professional life, fostering a strong work ethic and a sense of accomplishment.

22. A Lifelong Passion: My Love for Reading

My love for reading is a lifelong passion that offers both escape and enlightenment. There’s nothing quite like losing myself in a captivating story, delving into new worlds, or gaining fresh perspectives from non-fiction. From gripping thrillers to insightful biographies, and everything in between, books are my constant companions. Reading allows me to continuously learn, grow, and expand my understanding of the world, making it one of my most cherished and enriching hobbies.

23. Upholding Good Manners: A Proud Parent

Bad manners are a significant pet peeve of mine, and I take immense pride in the fact that each of my boys is incredibly polite. Instilling good manners and respect for others has always been a core value in my parenting, and seeing them exhibit courtesy and thoughtfulness in their interactions fills me with joy and satisfaction. I believe that good manners are fundamental to fostering positive relationships and creating a harmonious society, and it’s a trait I wholeheartedly champion and encourage.

24. A Chapter from the Past: My Smoking Habit

In a chapter of my life now firmly in the past, I used to smoke. It was a habit that, like many, I picked up and carried for a period. This personal experience of quitting was a significant journey, requiring determination and a commitment to better health. It taught me about breaking ingrained habits and the power of making healthier choices for my well-being. It’s a reminder of personal growth and the ability to evolve beyond past behaviors.

25. My Ever-Evolving Style: The Short Hair Era

Just as fashion evolves, so too does personal style. There was a time when I used to have short hair, a very different look from my current style. This photograph offers a little peek into that era, showcasing a period of my life where I embraced a more daring and perhaps bolder aesthetic. It’s fun to look back at these changes and see how my style, much like my life, has transformed and grown over the years. It’s a testament to embracing different versions of myself and enjoying the journey of personal expression.

Thank you for taking the time to delve into these 25 personal insights. Sharing these aspects of my life feels like a wonderful way to connect with you on a deeper level, bringing us closer as a community here at Stylish Cravings. I hope these revelations offer a clearer picture of the person behind the posts, the passions that drive me, and the experiences that have shaped my journey. What about you? Are there any surprising facts about yourself you’d like to share? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Till next time, stay stylish and stay craving!