I noticed that there are quite a few new faces popping up here, so I thought it would be a great time for a little re-introduction. I don’t often show my face around here which can make it hard for you to know who is actually throwing all these tips and recommendations at you. So here is a proper introduction. Hi! I am Tania! You may already know that I love to shop, try new things out, and give you a lot of opinions on what to buy and why. Here are a few things you may not know about me.
5 things to know about me
I work in architecture in New York City
Upon hearing this, most people react with awe and think this is super glamorous. Have you ever noticed when commercials are trying to portray a generic air of sophistication they use an architecture office as their backdrop? Who could forget this Banana Republic ad? Or the number of actors that claim they would have been architects if they had picked a different career? I hate to be the one to break it to you. Architecture is not all pondering deep thoughts with a sketchbook in hand while lounging on an Eames chair.
The reality of working in architecture is long hours in front of a computer drafting and a lot of coordination meetings. If you enjoy problem-solving, architecture is for you. While it’s not an easy profession, there is a satisfaction like no other at the end of a successful job. It’s great to be able to positively contribute to people’s lives by improving their physical environment.
My superpower is gifting
I can not tell you how much joy I find in buying gifts for others. It’s not about the material goods or the money spent, it’s about creating a memorable experience for someone. I love the hunt and research it takes to truly find the perfect gift. There is nothing better than seeing someone light up at a thoughtful gift they truly enjoy.
This hobby (is this a hobby?) is one of the main reasons I started this blog. When you need a gift, check out my ever-growing gift guide and review categories. And feel free to reach out to me if you need help finding a gift that will blow them away. I am happy to help you make someone’s day!
I read a lot of books
During my college years, I dreamed of becoming a writer. I was constantly writing novels in my head, making up complicated plotlines about the strangers sitting across from me on the train, and coming up with different book titles. My writing aspirations, lead to odd jobs in publishing and photography. A few years later I decided to try something new that turned into exploring architecture.
That hasn’t stopped me from devouring books at each possible free moment. Audible has made it even easier for me to consume a book or two a week. I have discussed my love of this app in these posts and probably open this audible more frequently than any other app on my phone. There is nothing like getting a steaming cup of coffee, listening to a good book while I draft a set of drawings.
Check out this post to see some books I highly recommend. I will continue to share new favorites as I discover them.
I have lived in 6 different countries
As a child of a diplomat, I spent most of my childhood traveling and moving around. In the process, I met people I would otherwise have never crossed paths with. I got to visit places that many only dream to see. My high school friends and I formed a deep bond that no time and distance can change. But I also experienced loss and had deep anxiety about the unknown.
Moving frequently teaches you to live in the moment and appreciate what you currently have because you are very aware that nothing stays the same. There were many fresh starts and clean breaks. While the love of travel hasn’t left me, I value the stability of being able to call someplace home. If I had to share only one trait about me, it is that I am a hardcore homebody.
It took a health scare for me to prioritize myself
I am ashamed to share this, but I am doing so because it’s important and everyone needs to hear this. While working for a big corporate firm, I was overworked, trying to manage my workload, home life and failing miserably at both. I was stressed and in denial that I needed help, ignoring the signs my body was screaming at me to slow down. The pain radiating from my stomach and extreme fatigue was dealt with by giving myself a stern morning pep that went along the lines of “suck it up and stop being a big baby.”
A few weeks later I ended up having to leave work in the middle of the day for an emergency procedure. Afterward, my doctor incredulously asked me how I was walking around like that for so long. That’s when it clicked that I need to listen to my body and put my well-being first. It took a health scare, to start creating boundaries, and prioritizing my health. I urge you to do the same for yourself before you are forced to. You deserve to live your best life for as long as possible.
I hope you feel like you know a little bit more about me. Feel free to drop any questions below. I would love to hear from you.
