Saturday, December 29, 2012

A Little Piece of My Life

I want to kindly introduce someone special in my life. As you may not know, I have recently-ish had a new sister. She is a year and a half old and means a lot to me! For about 19 years of my life I grew up not having any relatives and it was only my mom, dad, and I.

After 15 years of having just us three as a family, my dad passed away. It tremendously took a toll on my mom and a lot worst on me. To be honest, he wasn't my REAL father. But after being left from my real dad, he came in our life and changed it for the better! He shared such a connection with me that I just started calling him my dad. He literally saved us from a horrid life and I cannot thank him for the difference he made in my life. I was only 4 at that time and yet 11 years of having him as a dad was one of the greatest things my mother could allow my life to have. Unfortunately in 2007, he passed away and my world turned upside down. I really didn't have the time to mourn when he passed away because  I had to be the stronger person in my family that only now consisted of two. Wow, just us two. Some say two is not a lonely number, but with just my mom and I, it felt the most lonesome number. I couldn't believe he was gone, that in just a second all the memories and all the life in one person could dissipate. That it could take the brightest light and extinguish it in a matter of a second.

 My dad who was just promoted to Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps and was such a determined and distinguished worker, friend, and father just slipped away. Out of everyone I had to be strong for my mom. I had to withstand all the pain of losing a dad and having to comfort my mom without any tears. They say mourning is part of a healthy process. I didn't have that specific time to mourn. Not in the eyes of my family. Over the next years, my mother and I's relationship would diminish slowly and painfully. I guess my mother's way of dealing with my dad's death was to change everything. We moved out of our house into an extravagant neighborhood and bought a new car. At some extent, I was happy for her. But drastic changes like these weren't healthy. In a way it made things worse. But I didn't have the courage to step up and say anything, because it was her mourning process. Fortunately she took comfort in a new boyfriend, which brought her some happiness. As long as he made her happy that is all that mattered. But I was left unhappy. Our best friend relationship was destroyed by the fact that we both lost someone so dear. It hurt so much more when I had to face the reality on my own.

 I was only 16 and I had to do this on my own. I do not know how it happened, but somehow I found someone to love too. I found an arm to lean on and a love that has grown until today. Thomas Gruel. He helped me so much during all these times. Not only Thomas, but his family also. They took me in as their own and treated me as if I was their daughter as well. Some how I felt like Dad knew what I was going through and helped guide me to this family.

Honestly up to this point, they still treat me with such warm hearts. Like their own child they buy things for me, shop with me, comfort me, and love me endlessly! As time went by my mother and I just grew apart, to the point I was told to move out after I graduated high school. I was left on my own again. My second family had to pick up the pieces my mom left behind. They helped me with college and supported me. Without them I don't really know what I would of done because I was so close to giving up. They kept me from retaliating and they helped me become more determined!

So as I got into college, that's when it hit me the most. The mourning had begun and I was feeling every single pain. It basically hit me like a bus and I didn't know how to deal with all of it. All the pain that was suppressed for this long just couldn't hold out any longer. It just seeped through. I wasn't ready for it and I didn't know what to do. I think it was the fact that my mom and I didn't have a close relationship anymore and I felt alone. Not only did I lose my dad but also my mom. I didn't have anyone left to hold me in place and no more guidance. Yes I did have Thomas's parents but it is never the same. You still feel like you're alone even when people keep telling you otherwise.

My mom and dad!

It was now 2011 when everything changed AGAIN. After so long of fighting against everything, I reached out to my mother because I just needed her. I was hurting so bad that my grades (from being a straight A student) began to fall apart. I needed to re-patch our relationship for my health physically and mentally. I had to be the bigger person. So I did. It was a little rough in the beginning but still had to be done. She gave birth to a baby girl named Scarlett Jewel. Honestly that was one of the greatest things to witness. A new addition to the family of my mom, her boyfriend, and I. I think that was what really glued my mom and I's relationship; my sister.

In my mind, I didn't want her to grow up not knowing she had a sister. Unlike me, I had 3 half siblings in which I still have not yet met. I wanted to be in my little sisters life so I could be there every step of the way. I was there for many of the first and some I unfortunately missed out but nonetheless I was glad to be there as long as I have. I don't know if this is weird, but I feel as if she's my baby girl as well. I know there's a big difference between mother's love but she's like mine too. I mean many girls are mothers by 19, and I'm like her mommy too in a way. I've spent so many times taking care of her when my mom was gone. I've had to teach her things, cuddle her, put her to sleep and bathe her. So yes, I feel as if im her mommy too. She has called me momma various times but I have to remind her I am "Ate" (meaning sister in tagalog). I love her regardless and she's just quite a gift in my life. I am so happy to be her big sister and thank God I have another chance to rekindle my relationship with my mom and this family.



 

 



Well I hope y'all enjoyed a little part of my story!
xoxo Your Southern Pearl

Friday, December 21, 2012

Cinematography

Over the years of my life, I have grown to adore cinematography as a whole. With it being used for wedding videos or music videos, I have found it to be beautiful and inspiring in a way. I find it to have such a metaphor in life and I don't know if it's just me but filming something to depict your perspective on a specific thing seems a little magical to me. Watching different music videos on youtube for as long as I can remember, some just go beyond the standards and reach out to me. I have always had a fascination of watching videos for songs and seeing how it portrays the story of the lyrics. Some just have NOTHING to do with the song and then there are some that just goes beyond what they should and tell the story so thoroughly! I guess it's been a hobby of mine to watch the music videos of songs or artists I take fascination over. One recent one I've watched is 'The One That Got Away' by Katy Perry. In the beginning of the video you watch as an old woman reminisces on old fond memories she holds deep within her! And then it goes through series of memories she has as a young teen, head over heels in love with this artist. But as you can see she never ends up with him but instead ends with a life that she just has to live through. By the end of the video you see that the lover is gone and she has to deal with the fact that it's now just memories of the past.

After viewing this music video, I just absolutely start feeling a little sorrow and sadness. I mean, you find love only to end up not with him!? And here I am left wanting to know more about this story! This is why I love cinematography oh-so much, because I get to watch beautiful pieces that tell a great story. Sometimes I am even left crying because it reaches out to me and I'm left with sudden feelings of despair that its over. Haha, yes I know I am such a geek for it but I just love finding the beauty in simple things!!!! Other videos such as 'I Knew You Were Trouble' by Taylor Swift has such great cinematography, and depicts the heartache of some of us young girls who fall for bad boys. In the end, it's all the same. We are left picking up the pieces after these guys leave us in the dust. Phew---- thank God that even though its happen to numerous girls like us, we do end up with a great ending! With a diamond ring on my left hand and plans waiting for me to proceed, I honestly got to say if it wasn't for that 'bad boy', I wouldn't have found my Prince Charming!!!



So some other videos to watch if you're interested:
Love The Way You Lie - Eminem & Rihanna
Stolen - Dashboard Confessional
Wide Awake - Katy Perry
Everytime - Britney Spears
Just A Dream - Carrie Underwood
Give Me Love - Ed Sheeran *****
Stranger - Hilary Duff
Last Farewell - Big Bang

Hope you enjoy the videos!
XOXO Your Southern Pearl <3

Thursday, December 20, 2012

America, the Beautiful.

Happy Christmas Break College viewers! And Happy Holidays to everyone!!!! Let's all take the time to just take a breather after I successfully passed this semester's exams! Thank God, I survived the whole week of constantly staying up for long hours without coffee or anything. So last night, my mom and I planted ourselves to the catch to cheer and represent Ms. Philippines! Y'all might not know this but I am 100% Filipino but have lived in the US since I was four! Sadly, I do not know how to speak my native tongue, I can at least understand when people speak tagalog to me (weird, right?!). To honestly say, I kind of rock the best of both worlds!! Although I am not at all 'white', I can say that I am American and Filipino at the same time. I'm in the middle of both of the great cultures of America and Philippines! It's just awesome to know I'm surrounded by multiculturalism, in which helped me choose the right sorority for me! But anyways as I was saying, my mom and I were watching Miss Universe like any other year. Truthfully, I think these major pageants are quite fascinating and also inspiring! These women have dedicated their time into making the best of themselves. They're beautiful and work hard to where they are now! I mean, I give them so much props for walking down the runway with high heels! I can barely walk on my two flat feet without tripping on myself. Clumsy, is my name! And their confidence goes beyond the roof! By the end of the night it came down to two countries that took me by surprise. I never expected USA and Philippines so be the last to stand before the final title call. Who would of thought that the two countries that have influenced my life would stand fighting for Ms. Universe???? And as the anxiety grew, they announced the winner to be Ms. USA! I honestly couldnt be any more happy for the results. I live in a country with many freedoms and great fooooood! And I couldn't be more proud for growing up in a beautiful country such as America! In honor of the US winning, I paired my sheer blouse and pearls with a vintage American sweater! Happy winnings!!


xoxo Your Southern Pearl <3

Monday, September 3, 2012

Forever 21's Fall Guide


Hey yall! While browsing Forever 21's website, I bumped into their awesome Fall Guide.  When I looked at these fashion trends that the site put together I just couldn't help myself and wanted every piece they had! It just look so chic and dark all at the same time. During our summer break most of us experienced our Color Block and bright colors phase, well now here you have the darker colors to set the mood! For those of you who are fashionably impaired (no offense) or just need to know the 411 about the latest fall trends, have no worries because Forever 21 and I are here to help you out! Just click here to view the Fall Guide!

Tops | The tops they have displayed on the Fall Guide are very glam! With colors like black, cream, and gold you could simply show the Fall "Vintage Harvest" trend! They even display cheetah print and lace as well to compliment the colors. You can also see that metallic colors like silver and gold can be paired with these awesome colors. You seriously cannot go wrong with black because it can literally go with anything! Honestly all the tops would be something I would invest in!



Bottoms | In accenting the tops above, Forever 21 shows us dark colored skinny jeans, leather bottoms, formal shorts, and short & long skirts.

Dresses | I am a big fan of dresses, half my closet is full of different sorts of dresses. Out of the dresses, most of them are black. Black dresses are known for their sophisticated color and how it compliments every body! My black dresses are also used for Game Days (USC is known for their Garnet and Black colors) and also for my sorority since our colors are peach and black. As I have said before you cannot go wrong with black! Along with some black dresses on the site, you can also see that there are lace dresses too. Lace dresses have been one of the greatest fashion trends this year with high end designers and celebrities wearing them! Many magazines exhibit the lace trend in Vogue, Elle, InStyle, Nylon, and Seventeen.

Shoes | Shoes, shoes, shoes. I swear I can never have enough shoes. Like they say, shoes are a girls best friend... or is it diamonds? Actually diamonds and shoes should both be our best friends. Haha. On the Fall Guide, they showcase different types of shoe styles like ankle boots, loafers, wedges, and even mary janes. Here on Forever, they play up cheetah print shoes are part of their fall style (something I might need to invest in as well).

I hoped this helped with Fall Fashion 101! Forever 21 really did a great job in compiling an amazing list full of great clothes and attire! And I literally can't wait to show out with all the dark colors this semester. I love love love black so I'm anticipating this season!!!!

xoxo Your Southern Pearl <3


Sunday, September 2, 2012

Back To School Fashion 101

Hey heyyyyyy. Today I've been really guilty on online shopping. I mean come on! It's hard to turn down advertisement you get while on your email, and here comes up a "Buy One, Get One For Free." Um... yes why not?! As I get on the Forever 21 I see all kinds of deals and I can not refuse. While on the site I see the latest trends: blazers, cardigans, leather boots, and the sheer blouses! Even on campus the Back To School attire includes sheer blouses. They are stylish, cute, and sophisticated. You can dress them down with a bohemian look or dress them up with a pencil skirt and you're good to go! These sheer blouses are a must have in your closet. They can be paired with shorts, skirts, and pants and they just look fabulous. It's a simple clothing piece with a great look!!!! I don't know about you guys but I am in love with them! From color block blouses to tie collar blouses. I must say when I think about it, I already have like 4 or 5 pieces in my closet right now. But I just love how they fit well and are thin so you can get a little breeze in them too! I guess if you happen to see me on campus, I'll be flashing this trend mostly every day (;



My first day of classes! I sported a sheer cream blouse with pink neon shorts and a messenger bag

 

 

xoxo Your Southern Pearl <3


Saturday, September 1, 2012

Blogging like a snail

Hey yall, happy september!!! So its been quite a while since I last blogged. My sweet apologies! Lately I have been trying to get a swing of things with school, the new house, and my sorority. It's been quite hectic trying to stabilize every single thing and balance them all equally. But I know it won't be too long until I get used to it all again. Summer break really got a hold of me so I really need to start buckling down! This year I am taking a history class, two journalism classes, and my most favorites so far: retailing classes. The two retailing classes really help with the fashion aspect and its quite fun! For all of you at Cola, you should really try to fit in Retail 268 and 368! They have really great professors and you get to do hands on projects as well! I got to say, this year is going to be awesome! So as the start of the school year I'll be talking about ways to buckle down and getting organized!

Lilly Pulitzer Agendas | Planners/agendas will save your life!!! As long as you keep up with it and use it daily it can really help with getting yourself organized. If you have homework or need to write a vital note down go for it! And not only will Lilly help you out but she provides you with a cute cover and colorful and detailed interface! Having my agenda seriously has helped save my life. I put EVERYTHING inside of it: dates, phone numbers, friends birthdays, homework assignments, football game dates, notes, and even coupons! I take it every where I go just in case I need it and two thirds of the time I need it!!!

Apps Like Evernote | One of the most popular apps among college students, Evernote is incredibly useful not only for its note-taking functions but its cross-platform capabilities, allowing you to clip pictures, sound files, videos, and pages from multiple sources but access it from your phone, desktop, or browser.  (For more, check out our post on how to use Evernote to get organized!) Best of all, it’s accessible even offline, so you don’t need wi-fi access to keep track of all your ideas and notes. If you have Itunes (or even the internet works), you can find really great apps for school! (;

DIY Rotating Goal List | Oh my god! When I found this I immediately made my own! Do you ever have these days when you have so much on your mind and tell yourself, "I need to do this..." or "I want to do this..." and your mind scrambles? Well here you have your ultimate life saver! This Do It Yourself project helps you put all your goals down in a way you can easily keep track of the every-rotating lists of goals we all have! All you need is a pen, paper, and post-it notes and you're good to go!!!

Other ways of getting organized in easy ways: dry erase boards in jotting down little things, binders and DIVIDERS, and having lots of pens and highlighters work for me as well!!!!

xoxo Your Southern Pearl <3




Sunday, August 19, 2012

Pop of Red

Red & White

Stripes




Getting ready for the fall semester with... STRIPES. Yes, I'll be trending the stripes and boots this new school year and I am excited. Here I compiled a collage with a tan messenger bag with matching boots, a warm striped oversized sweater, and skinny jean! New memories, new friends, new trend. Who's all excited for this????

Thursday, August 16, 2012

With Peach && Love

- "Z-E-T-A S-I-G-M-A C-H-I -- ZETA SIGMA CHI!!!!"
-"We're not this or that, or in between we're just radiant ladies of the sweet black and peach, unnniiiii!"



Okay, okay! Enough of sorority chants, but just thought I'd represent just a tad bit! Let me break it down a little for all you curious cats about a little sorority with a big dream!

In 1990, eight determined women at Northern Illinois University came together to form a bond like no other! They ad an idea for an organization that would unify women of different cultures, ethnicities, religions and backgrounds. This organization would also focus on the pursuit of higher education and achieving academic success. These strong women wanted not only to teach others at their school about their ideals, but they wanted to share their dreams and experiences with others as well! And from there Zeta Sigma Chi was founded on March 3, 1991.



So as you can see, we're fairly new. We are the exception from the various sororities out there and are quite unique. We do not discriminate and we accept everyone for who they are. And yes we are a social sorority just like everyone else but not only that, we do a lot of service and make education one of our greatest priorities! Coming into college I've always wanted to be part of the big greek organization but just couldn't find the right fit. I've always been a little different in high school and never stayed in one specific clique. I always just loved jumping around from different groups of people and here in Zeta Sigma Chi, I found home. These group of exceptional lovely ladies just opened my horizon. And they opened my eyes to all dreams of unifying women of different cultures and backgrounds. And as a new sorority our future aspirations is to create a significant difference in the community as well as on campus! We want to welcome everyone with open arms and show the atypical from the "typical." From time to time you may see different significant things relating to ZSC in the blog!




Our colors: Peach and Black!
Mascot? A unicorn! Yea a mystical graceful creature such as a unicorn!
And our flower is the peach rose (:









As I share this with you all, I just get excited telling you something quite significant in my life like Z-Chi. This sorority has changed my life in a great way and they just mean so much to me. And the sisterhood I've created with them is something worth while. <3

With peach and love,
Your Southern Pearl

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

A fresh new start!

Hello everyone! As a fairly new blogger, I am thrilled to be able to start anew and share with you all. I've been contemplating whether or not to start my own personal blog but just never had the courage to do it. Soooo, here's my shot! Here on "Your Southern Pearl" you'll see all the things that I am currently interested in or love. Between diy projects, cooking, a little on fashion and the newest chapter of my life (new house, fiancee, and a flamboyant dog) I'll be able to share all the things that are happening in my life right here, right now! Yes, I know what you're thinking about: What's so significant about Tresha and her blog? Well I cherish everything in my life. I'm a radiant gemini who thinks every little thing should be cherished and loved! So let's get rollin'.

First, I'd like to catch you up on some stuff about me! My name is Tresha Mae and I live in the big old city of Columbia. Living in Beaufort for a while and moving here to Cola, is a big transition it self. I'm a USC girl going into my third year of college.



 I am a radiant & dignified girl of Zeta Sigma Chi Multicultural Sorority Incorporated who has amazing sisters! I can promise you they're the greatest genuine people you could meet!

* The Deuce Club!



I have a new amazing yellow house and little black lab to come with it. You may have heard the little phrase, "southern pearl" before or maybe you haven't. This has been a little inside joke my fiance and I have shared for the longest time. But not till recently did I accept that I was a southern pearl. Sure I grew up living more up north and learning the northern ways, but after coming to South Carolina it all changed there. I used to never say "aint" and "yall" because honestly I thought it was a little silly. But before I knew it, I started using the southern terminology and began my ways as his "southern pearl."

Four months ago, on April 20, 2012, my best friend of four years got on his knee and proposed to me! We were friends before we started dating and it's kinda funny how everything worked out. Surrounded by friends and family, that day has got to be the most special day of my life... so far! And I wouldn't have trade it for the world. He's the sweetest and most charming guy I know and I just love him! Ofcourse. Thomas is my rock, my shoulder to lean on and best friend and girl could ever have! Starting our life together we have the cutest dog named Brice, after the Williams Brice Stadium. (YES! We are die hard Gamecock fans for life!) But cutting it short for tonight, I wanted to thank yall for letting me be able to share this all with you and cannot wait to share more of my life in the near future!!


 

Goodnight,
xoxo Your Southern Pearl <3