Diving into Epic Poetry

True confession time: I love me some epic poetry. Total nerd-alert I know, but there is nothing better than reading something you know is ancient, and being able to understand it and relate to it. Right now I'm ready both The Iliad and The Odyssey (one on the kindle, one on the Path train aka paperback). I read The Odyssey in 9th grade (I don't even want to talk about how many years ago that is) and I loved it then, and I love it now. I am particularly fond of the Robert Fitzgerald translations perhaps because they are the easiest for me to read because they sound how people actually speak.

Aside from the Greek cycle (epic poetry is told in "cycles" or series based on location) I have also read Beowulf recently as well as slogged through Nibelungenlied (Think ride of the Valkyries). Each poem provides the reader with ancient insight that was important then just as it is now. In the Odyssey, Homer says "Each man delights in the work that suits him best", which is grandfather to most important and quintessential phrase in job-hunting, "do what you love, the money will follow. Not bad considering it was written centuries ago. This timeless advice, along with many other lines is why I cherish epic poetry so much. I highly recommend , if you have or  haven't taken a recent dip, dive on into some epic poetry.

D.I.Y. But Oh So Fly: Boxwood Topiary

I love Boxwood plants. They are classically beautiful and all around just preppy as all get out. Unfortunately, they are extremely expensive, and more difficult to care for than you might think of. I really wanted one, but I can barely take care of this blog, much less a high-maintence plant so I decided to make my own. 

I am never an advocate for fake plants, but with this little D.I.Y. they look less like they belong in your great-aunt's house and more appropriate for someone in their 20 somethings.

How To: Boxwood Topiary by pearlsandpolisci on Polyvore

All you need is 1 Boxwood plant, from Michaels, 1 terra-cotta pot, and white spray paint. This project will cost around $15 bucks---way cheaper than people offering them for $50.  All you must do is spray the pot white and wait for it to dry. Put the plant in the pot, and display!

Here is my Boxwood plant for y'all

Happy crafting!

Gotta Know About: Student Loans and Congress

Student loans have been in the news recently, and as someone who is in the target demographic for that debate, I have been paying attention to what’s going on (or at least have been trying to)—easier said than done. Something that seemed like sort of a no-brainer has turned into something that directly affects anyone who has, or will have student loans, so I thought I would share with y’all.

What: The Stafford Loan is a loan eligible to students who are attending university in the United States. These are THE student loans that everyone complains about after graduation. Something special about these loans is that the U.S. government guarantees them—so even if the student defaults on their payment, the bank is still getting paid. These loans are typically offered at a lower interest rate…typically.

Who: Congress. About two-weeks ago, the interest rates on Stafford loans doubled from 3.4% to 6.8%, costing students anywhere from $2,000 and up…something that really matters to people who are trying to maintain a budget (aka every college student ever). It is important to note that this current increase doesn't affect those who already have a loan taken out, their interest rates will stay the same.

Democrats: Want a cap placed on the interest rates to ensure education is attainable to all (but where would we get the money from in our cash-strapped government?)

Republicans: Do not want more government spending (in this instance it would prevent the hike in rates)

Both sides have very good points and it’s up for the members of congress, and their constituents to decide. To find out ways to contact your congressmen (either telling them you want the rate decreased, increased, free college education, etc.) click the link below! 

http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml

Positive Attitudes

With the crazy-ness that is in the world, I honestly believe that being positive, whenever it is possible, is the best thing to do. At my internships (which I am loving now more than ever by the way), negativity is a major thing. From a coworker with a sour attitude about everything to people fretting over voter turnout and canvass shifts, for a while it was just too much for me. We have a 70% confirmation rate? That's great! We can improve, but let's just acknowledge how great that is!
People are unaware of how toxic their negativity can be, but I'm sure you know what I am talking about. Their negativity spreads, like a cancer, around the office, causing people to be rude to one another as well as bring down the general office environment. Campaigns are hectic, with people on limited amounts of sleep and addicted to caffeine stimulants, but I think despite all this activity that we should work hard, make the effort, to "be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." That Maya Angelou is a very smart lady.

So smile, get treats for the office, and put your best foot forward. 
Tomorrow is Friday!

Rain, Rain Go Away!

Rain Rain Go Away by pearlsandpolisci featuring knee high boots

Wow. Talk about rainy weather. Just as I was leaving my house to head into the campaign, the sky opened up, and a down-pour commenced. Thank goodness I checked the weather and was prepared with my rainy outfit. I love love love my raincoat from target-I've gotten an insane amount of compliments on it and it wasn't even that expensive. A great switch from the sorority windbreaker I typically wear during the rainy season. Paired with some standard Hunter rain-boots and a simple umbrella, I was all set to take on the day. 
As far as the campaigns go, things are getting busy (as they typically are) so I am all hunkered down in the office working away. I hope y'all have a wonderful week and are ready to take on any challenges you have!