His proposal came in the middle of a job interview. I had just returned from London and Jon wanted me to move into the boarding school where he worked and lived. The school principal agreed—on one condition. He was a tall man, and he spread his long arms out like wings to make his point as the verdict was delivered. “I’d love to have you here,” he told me, “but you can’t live in sin. I’ll give you four weeks to get married.” “I think not”, I sniffed, not about to forfeit our wedding day for a quick, drive-by affair…. [Read More]
Living With Intent (updated)
Hello – and Happy New Year to you! January holds its own magic, when the year ahead stretches out crisp and fresh, brimming with potential. At a party yesterday, we were asked our intent for the year…not a specific resolution per se… but what guiding intent we want to propel our thoughts, our actions, and our language. One person said she would usher in an intention of non-judgment in her life. I imagined her welcoming it in, like a house guest, and getting comfortable with it at home. In time, it would naturally infuse the way she views people and… [Read More]
The joy of expanding your comfort zone.
When was the last time you did something -anything- for the first time? Come on, admit it: we’re creatures of habit. Whether it’s the same lunch we grab on the run, the same types of people we go out with, or the same film genres we watch, we fall into patterns. And it’s understandable – it’s familiar, easy, and means one less decision in our already-busy day. But we all know how today’s comfort zone can morph into tomorrow’s rut. Which is why (re)launching this blog feels exciting, fresh….and a little scary. A Savvy Girl gets out of her comfort… [Read More]
The Year of No
Could you organize the group gift? Could you babysit this weekend? Could you lend me some money (again)? Meet Carla. She said yes to all these requests—this past weekend. People who meet her see a dynamic, caring and accomplished woman. They’re right.They’re just missing something—Carla is a people-pleaser. You won’t find it highlighted on her resume, or part of her online profile, but it’s there. Carla struggles to say no. She is warm and caring at her core, so it’s no act—she wants to help. But then she feels resentful later, when her time is stretched. Have you ever suffered… [Read More]
Welcome to the blog
Breathe. Smile. Move forward. Welcome to my blog. I’m Alicia, and I’m chuffed that you’ve dropped by! The Savvy Girl’s Guide to Grace is about simple ways to lead a savvy life…channeling your inner Audrey, really….and putting your stamp on it. It’s about finding a balance with the hats we wear (turns out, it is possible!) and welcoming moments of grace and kindness amidst the rush. We’re more logged on than ever, but sometimes more isolated, too. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on what makes a girl savvy, and how she handles different scenarios, from hassles on campus or at… [Read More]