You May Have a New Zodiac Sign!

I'm an Aries: generous and courageous on a good day, moody and impatient on a bad day. At least I thought I was. Turns out, I'm actually a Pisces.

How did this happen? Astronomers explained that the Earth has slowly been changing its position in relationship to the sun since the study of astrology began 3,000 years ago, which has caused a one-month bump in the alignment of the stars -- and has added a 13th zodiac sign, Ophiuchus.

These are the new dates:

Capricorn Jan. 20-Feb. 16
Aquarius Feb. 16-March 11
Pisces March 11-April 18
Aries April 18-May 13
Taurus May 13-June 21
Gemini June 21-July 20
Cancer July 20-Aug. 10
Leo Aug. 10-Sept. 16
Virgo Sept. 16-Oct. 30
Libra Oct. 30-Nov. 23
Scorpio Nov. 23-Nov. 29

Ophiuchus Nov. 29-Dec. 17
Sagittarius Dec. 17-Jan. 20

So what does this mean that I'm supposed to have a sudden personality shift because I'm now a fish (well, two fish) rather than a ram? Actually, maybe I've always been more Pisces-like. A writer, my strengths are my creativity and imagination, which are also strengths of Pisces. I'm sensitive (sometimes to a fault) and frustratingly indecisive. I'm guided by my emotions; I have the tendency to be lazy unless I'm doing something about which I feel passionate.

Other than I now have to remember to read a different horoscope every day, I suppose not much has changed. Oh, except I also have to buy myself a silver Pisces bangle by Alex & Ani. Can't go around flaunting that I'm an Aries anymore!

Did your sign changed? Which do you think is more true to your personality - your old or new zodiac sign?

Space & Style: Apartment Inspiration

When I graduated college two weeks ago, there was nothing I looked forward to more than packing up my dorm and moving into my own apartment. I had picked the perfect little one bedroom in west Omaha, complete with a wood-burning fireplace, private balcony, and generous closet space. Upon arriving to it after the ceremonies, however, I realized I now faced the daunting task of interior decorating. Bed, bath, living room, kitchen, entryway...so many spaces to furnish while still on a college student budget!

I've been sleeping in a fairly empty space for the past two weeks, but after scouring the internet for interior inspiration, I have managed to stockpile some sites and spaces that will assist me in actualizing my decor dreams. 

1.) Apartment Therapy

Truly a site that needs no introduction - in my opinion the absolutely best source of apartment decor inspiration and ideas across the web. 

2.) Etsy

I love anything locally made, and Etsy is the go-to for independent artists across America. Although it's primarily a shopping destination, I find it easy to draw inspiration based off of a single well-made piece. I've already purchased a few things for my eclectic little apartment, and am currently eyeing must-haves like these cheeky pillows, some cute and chic little wall decals, and beautiful photography prints. 

3.) Design*Sponge

Another no-brainer, Design*Sponge has the ability to make you lose track of time as you scroll through endless DIY tutorials and inspirational images. Search the "Before and After" tag for some truly remarkable revamps. 

4.) The Selby

If you're a nosy neighbor, you'll enjoy this site featuring nothing but home tours from the likes of all sorts of creative individuals - everyone from Pharrell Williams to Alexander Wang. My favorite homes include jewelry designer Pamela Love, Chase Cohl, and photographer Jamie Isaia. 

5.) Coco+Kelley

I am a longtime fan of Cassandra's blog, which blends all elements of food, fashion, and interior design together into one unbelievably cohesive and aesthetically pleasing place. I love her creative color pallet collages (see below) and her holiday gift guides are something I'll consult all year long. 

Although the Internet is undoubtably the fastest way to get your fill of interior inspiration, I've found myself flipping through some pretty fantastic books during my downtime at Trocadero, as well. Paris Living Rooms ($29.95) captures some stunning living spaces as they are naturally, which results in some  slightly disheveled but undeniably beautiful images. The Way We Live in the City ($39.95) looks at urban spaces than span all styles of design, from sleek and modern to eclectic and retro. And if you're looking for more of an escape, Weekend Retreats ($45) provides plenty of warm and rustic getaways to soothe the soul. All three are available to purchase at the Troc, in person or through phone order!

 

Feel free to share where you get your interior decor inspiration!