Jackson Hole Wyoming Trip – Life outside of news

– Jackson Hole, WY –

I’ve learned in news it’s always helpful to have something to look forward to.

Lately, I’ve been craving travel. Most recently, I went to Jackson Hole Wyoming with my best friend’s family.

Not only was it epic, but a time to relax and unplug. It was exactly what I needed.

Starting a new reporting job has been exciting but also stressful in a way. Change definitely brings some subconscious stress. Wyoming was exactly what I needed!

I really recommend ALWAYS having SOMETHING to look forward to. Big or small. It can be weekend plans or something as big as a trip.

Here are pictures from our trip:

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole

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Where do we go from here?

I’m hurting as is every journalist in America right now. I keep asking myself, “where do we go from here?” and I keep thinking there is no answer.

As journalists we have to respond, we have to be there for the public, and we need to inform but where do we draw the line?

When I started my career in news not long ago, I was unaware of the risk of the job. College classes do not tell you you’re going to have to be alone at a shooting, chase a tornado by yourself, or that you’re going to get heckled by people who “hate the media.” But, all of that has happened and happens every day to journalists across the country.

I knew the business would be hard, but I didn’t think it’d get to a point where people would die.

I don’t know Dylan. I never have but I feel so close to his spirit right now. I pray what comes out of his tragic incident is better care for reporters and photographers in the long run. I don’t have the answers but I pray big news owners and executives come together to find a solution. This is not the first time something like this has happened and it may not be the last.

At 24yrs old my heart is just in pieces. The life he had ahead, the passion he had, the good he wanted to do, it all pains me beyond belief that was cut short. This could’ve happened anywhere, to anyone.

I remember after leaving my first market all I wanted was to finally feel safe. My coworkers and I covered shootings alone often, as well as dangerous tornadoes and other severe events. To think about this makes me sick. How are we letting this happen? I remember wanting to come to this blog many times to speak about how I was feeling. I never did because I felt like I’d be shamed for it.

Today, Dylan’s tragic incident is giving journalists across the country the gumption to stand up and say this is all not OK. As I scroll on social media I see so many others calling on safer measures. I don’t know what those measures look like. Dylan was not alone and this horrible act STILL happened.

Right now I’m also thinking of all those journalists who are kids in their first market. They’re going to shootings – alone, knocking on doors – alone, in front of a camera not seeing behind them -alone, getting heckled by people who hate the media – alone. I’m clearly word vomiting as I type but my point is that safety should always be a priority no matter what.

And while I’m at – let’s freaking do something about guns. Why are they so easily accessible to someone with a lengthy criminal record? WE NEED TO STOP BAD PEOPLE FROM GETTING GUNS.

I’m just broken to pieces for News 13, Orlando news stations, and Dylan’s fiance and family.

Go fund me can be found, here.

 

 

Affordable bedroom decor for those on a budget

I’m finally getting all settled in my new apartment. At first, it felt like I was living in someone’s home.

I got so used to living in Alabama that coming back to New England, back living with my college roommate, has been both nostalgic and kind of unreal. I did not imagine I’d be back in the North East so quickly.

When I was coming up with the concept for my apartment bedroom decor, I wanted something a bit more mature, cohesive, and of course, cozy.

I bought the quilt first and worked around that. For my bedroom decor, I knew I wanted two side tables and hunted for an affordable one. I loved the two I found on Amazon for an affordable price. I thought the black contrast would be nice and out of my comfort zone (beige/white). I was also drawn to the three drawers for storage.

In order to make it all cohesive, I was drawn to the industrial side table lamps. They also have alllllllll the outlets needed to charge your devices which is so nice. For both of them, I only spent $50!

Surprisingly, the majority of this is all AMAZON! If I didn’t link something there’s a chance it’s from HomeGoods or Marshalls.

bedroom decor

Workwear tops/coats for winter

Elevating workwear tops/coats

I’ve noticed when it comes to workwear tops and being on camera, fitted tops are typically the way to go for me in the winter.

When you’re on camera, live shots usually show the waist up. On me, a more fitted top looks more flattering than a baggy blouse. From my experience, fitted shirts also work best with a long coat, but the problem with that right now, IT’S FREEZING OUT. Of course most days right now, a sweater is a must! High-neck tops also keep your neck nice and warm. I’m a big fan of a turtleneck.

Below are some sweaters and tops that I’ve found. They’re work-appropriate and will keep you warm out there!

My last post featuring work pants and shoes can be found here. 

workwear tops

Pants and Shoes to elevate your workwear

Elevating workwear – Pants & Shoes

elevating workwear

Being a reporter, you’re constantly on your feet and running around. As many of us know, no day is the same.

It’s hard sometimes to find pants, shoes, and shirts, that are comfortable to wear the entire day! I’ve always struggled with being comfortable, while finding something cute to wear.

Pants have always been my go-to rather than skirts. We’re constantly bending down, picking up gear and schlepping it all around. A skirt or dress is sometimes the recipe for a wardrobe disaster/malfunction.

With a new job around the corner, I’ve really been trying to elevate my work wardrobe. I’ve found that the split hem pants from Old Navy are the comfiest, multi-functional pants EVER. They’re also under $30! I was SHOCKED to find them. They feel like leggings and are a thick matieral. I got the brown and black since I loved the one pair so much. You can dress the pants up for work, down for around the house and even wear them for night out.

The trouser pants are from Express and are on sale RIGHT NOW in beige and black. If you’re under 5’5, defintely opt for the short. They’re still a little long on me but perfect with a 2 inch bootie. I heard the Abercrombie trousers aren’t very good quality so I opted for the Express ones and I love them.

I’ve found loafers are the best shoes for reporting (other than sneakers). Loafers have a sneaker base to them so they’re more ideal than a complete flat or heel.

You can shop everything below!

My last blog post on anchor dresses can be found HERE.