"Rock Your Fear" with Lindsay Amico

Real Talk: You may have heard me talk or share on my social media from time to time that I am an anxious person and over the last few years my anxiety can go from 0-60 in a blink of an eye. The worrying, stressing out, etc. that happens sometimes gets to be too much and can really change my mood when I try not to let it.

When talking with a friend of mine she recommended I meet Lindsay. Lindsay Amico is a certified health coach and the owner of Picture Perfect Mind. Lindsay helps you address and control your anxiousness and fear in a positive approach.

Let’s continue to be real for a moment - anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older (Anxiety & Depression Association of America) . And lately when I talk openly about my anxiety I feel like others can relate. On another hand let’s talk about fear. How many times have you let fear take control of your life, instead of embracing the fear, you run from it and regret doing that. It’s a common theme in many peoples lives nowadays.

So what does Lindsay do? well it should be more what doesn’t she do! Lindsay studied political science and environmental studies at Northeastern University in Boston, and was sticking with the “traditional norms” that people think they need to do. She came back to Buffalo and being interested in social and environmental justice was a part of the clean air coalition (interning and then sitting on their board). Following that she began working at Roswell Park.

From a young age Lindsay has dealt with anxiety and she has learned to use tools from inside herself to control her life. Let’s be real “thoughts create your reality” and after reading Rhonda Byrne’s “The Secret” (a book that is based on the belief of the law of attraction, which claims that thoughts can change a person's life directly), this past summer Lindsay decided to follow her dream and continue to pursue making a difference and began Picture Perfect Mind.

What steps helped Lindsay decide to begin Picture Perfect Mind?

1. Lindsay’s mindset - rocking her fear. Identifying things that happen in your life and the things that held you back and choosing to love over fear. Stepping into that spiritual component.

2. Training with Gabby Bernstein (May Cause Miracles)

3. Having practical tools to use for mindset

4. Deciding to step into a business full time when it lines up at the right time for you

5. Lastly knowing there is nothing wrong with you if you have fear. Its having awareness and acceptance to fear and anxiousness, being present with this feeling instead of fighting it and embracing and owning your fear to take steps forward.

What inspires Lindsay?

Knowing that she is not meant to stay small or stagnant. And knowing she has a divine purpose to serve others in this life and having the opportunity to do that. Serving other women.

The best advice she gives?

If fear is guaranteed in life, then ask yourself the question, do you want to take action toward something? Inspired action in spite of fear is up to you!! Harness fear as your power

Best advice Lindsay has received?

“CELEBRATE YOURSELF” - Gabby Bernstein

Cherish yourself and celebrate your wins. As a society we fixate on things we haven’t done instead of the things we have accomplished. It can be something small and simple everyday, but celebrate those accomplishments no matter how big or small they are.

So if you are someone who deals with anxiety or fear or both you may ask yourself this question, what are some steps I can take to feel better. Here is Lindsay’s take away’s:

1. You are not alone. We ALL feel it - anxious, fear, isolated

2. Recognize the fear and chose it, chose it in a positive thought. Look forward to something.

3. Take the necessary steps at one time

4. Take deep breaths

5. Bring compassion to yourself and know there are people you can reach out to

What are some of Lindsay’s goals in 2020?

1. Expressing herself authentically. Connecting to the joy of creativity

2. Connecting with a community of women that can lift herself up as she lifts them

3. Celebrating herself

4. Developing a deep faith and patience as she works on growing her business

5. Not defining instant results as a success

6. Knowing her own worth

7. Being kind to her body

8. Creating a course (diving into all your stuff)

What does Lindsay love about Buffalo?

That everyone cares about one another and that Buffalo is evolving and growing constantly - always something new to do.

What can Lindsay do for you? Attend her workshop at Raw Renewal on February 6th, 2020. “Rewrite Your Fear Story”

Lindsay also does one-on-one coaching work with individuals and has business services available as well. Follow her on Instagram ( @pictureperfectmind ) and Facebook

Fun Facts About Lindsay:

Coffee or Tea? Coffee

Wine or Cocktail? Cocktail - Tito’s Soda and Lime

Favorite Restaurant? Nye Park Tavern - AMAZING food (especially there truffle fries)

At the end of the day you only have one life, don’t waste it on letting fear consume you, instead embrace it, listen to your intuition and love yourself for who you are.

Thank you Lindsay for being the boss babe that you are and inspiring me.

-Beth

Welcome to Hertel Avenue with HBA's President, Judy Porto-Fiorella

Explore Hertel

Eat. Shop. Play. Explore. Create. Community.

Some of you may have seen this video on North Buffalo that was on the local news and social media channels this past week, if you ask me my opinion I think its a great video showcasing that part of our Western New York community which segues well into my blog feature today. On a Monday evening back in September (yes, September) I had the chance to sit down with Judy Porto-Fiorella, President of the Hertel Business Association (HBA). Judy and I met a few years back when the Italian Festival moved from Hertel to the Outer Harbor and I’m so happy I met her.

(Photos above are from HBA’s FB page)

Judy has lived in North Buffalo and has been involved with the North Buffalo community for many years. For those who aren’t familiar with the HBA, the board is made up of volunteers that include both residents in the Hertel community as well as business owners. The association helps with a number of things from helping businesses open, and helping residents in the area, to the beautification and decor along Hertel Ave. They meet the second Tuesday of each month and our on a yearly term.

If you’ve been down Hertel recently you will see there has been a lot of new businesses and development taking place as well as public art down Hertel Alley. That is the whole reason the HBA is in place - to attract more visitors to the area.

Judy’s favorite thing about being involved is the community work she is able to do - whether it be working with the council members, helping business owners or residents in the community or just being a part of helping North Buffalo thrive, what ever the case, she enjoys it all.

That doesn’t mean that there aren’t challenges her and the board face because there are, but they listen to those concerns and do the best they can to solve the problems that the community faces. Such as the parking, that is the main complaint if anything.

When I asked her what the biggest reward is she said it’s meeting new people in the community and seeing what they are doing. It’s a friendly community and those a part of it are always willing to help each other. It’s like a mini family, where we all respect one another, they enjoy collaborating and learning new things.

This or That:

• White or Red wine: White

• Football or Hockey: Football

• Enjoy making - Pasta or Italian Wedding Cookies: Italian Wedding Cookies

To stay up to date on all that is going on, on Hertel and in North Buffalo make sure to check out the HBA’s website and Facebook page. Judy, thank you for being the rock star and amazing woman that you are.

-B

Some of the places to check out next time you’re on Hertel:

Restaurants:

• La Talpa

• Garage Cafe

• Kostas

• Burning Buffalo

• The Little Club

Shops:

• PS Accessories

• Daisy’s Doghouse

• Start with Sleep

• Antique Lamp Company (cool finds in there)

• Core 5 Pottery

Labor Day Weekend

I can’t believe Labor Day weekend is here. It is the first summer I’ve had in a long time that it didn’t consist of work all day (and night). Looking back at it, it flew by and I don’t feel I got to everything on my summer bucket list. While this weekend will consist of trying to get to some of those items on my list, I thought it’d be a good opportunity to promote some fun things to do if you still want to get the most out of summer.

One of the places I went to back in July was Panama Rocks in Chautauqua County. While I haven’t been there since I was about 8 or 9 years old it was so much fun taking my niece and nephew and exploring with them. Even though they told me that they would have had more fun with their Uncle, I ignored that comment and made the most of exploring the caves, hiking the trails and looking over the cliffs.

exploring caves

If hiking Panama Rocks isn’t your cup of tea and you want to stay closer to Buffalo, the Zoo offers on Labor Day $5 admission – check out the dinosaurs, Boomerang Island, Mohan the baby rhino and Toni the baby sea lion or hit up the waterfront and take in the beautiful views and kayak, paddle board, bike or walk around the area.

Whatever it is that you decide to do I hope you spend this holiday weekend laughing, loving and creating new memories.

-B

7. 1. 6.

When I began this blog of mine over six years ago I never imagined the amount of love and passion I would have for the city that I am so lucky to call home. Having always loved this region I didn’t think it would be possible to find deeper meaning, deeper roots and deeper passions that I have come to find, but it has happened and there is so, so much to be grateful for in our region.

Since it is “716 day” I thought I would share my list of favorite (favorite!!) restaurants, venues, activities, events, and people I like to follow. I know I missed A LOT on this list (it’s so hard to think of it all), but take a look. Let me know what are some of your favorite things in the 716 - places you like to go, events you like to attend and people you like to follow.

Western New York may be a small region compared to big cities, but it has a ton of talent, pride and passion to share with visitors and those that are lucky to call it home.

Favorites broken down by category:

Brewery: Resurgence – Have you checked out their new location at 55 Chicago? If not, definitely put it on your list of things to do

Restaurants:

• Southtowns: Alchemy Wine Bar/The Grange

• Downtown Restaurants: Marble + Rye, Hearth + Press (especially before a show at Sheas), Hydraulic Hearth (love their outdoor patio in the summertime), Cantina Loco is my favorite spot for guac, and chips and they are my favorite spot for margaritas. Love Wasabi on Elmwood for Sushi

• Northtowns: Share on Main Street, TCB on Transit Road and Greens on Transit

Cocktails – Duende at Silo City is a pretty cool, chill place, Angelica Tea Room, Just Vino on Main Street, Blackbird Cider on Chandler Street, The Terrace at Delaware Park is a beautiful spot as well, those views of Hoyt Lake are BEAUTIFUL.

Dog Park: Hands down my Harlie girl loves the Knox Farm – whether its running around at the dog park or walking the trails it’s a happy place for her

Workout Spot: #REVLIFE is the best life. Any class at Revolution Buffalo is sure to be a fun time. It is my happy place. A place where I take in all the positive vibes that I can. I also love Love in Motion yoga. Kate and Kath bring those feel good vibes with every flow

Outdoor spots: Hands down The Outer Harbor is my favorite waterfront spot and a spot that I never get sick of. Whether it’s a run, walk, the views or visiting Tifft Nature Preserve it has a special place in my heart. Delaware Park and Artpark are also places I love to visit outdoors

Fun things to do: A fishing excursion with Brookdog Fishing is a blast and I highly recommend for anyone (at any fishing level). The Buffalo Pedal Tours are so much fun, Hatchets & Hops is also a fun place to check out as well as the Silo City tours with Explore Buffalo

Coffee Shops: Remedy House, Tipico, Public and Overwinter

Favorite places: The Buffalo Zoo (that’s a given; I mean if you know me you know how much I love animals (more than some people)). The Aquarium is another favorite spot. The Science Museum, kayaking, The Buffalo Central Terminal and the Broadway Market

Shops I love to visit: Anna Grace on Elmwood, Mod Nos on Hertel, Winkler & Samuels Wine Purveyors at 500 Seneca, Pegs Hardware

My spots for wings: Nine Eleven Tavern in South Buffalo is a hole in the wall, but the wings are one of the best in town (in my opinion), I am also a fan of Carbone’s on South Park and Duffs

Favorite social media accounts to follow/motivate me, locally here in Buffalo: Buffalo Boss Babes, Christy at Wild Blossom Hollow, Lloyds, The Buffalo Zoo, Adventures are Waiting (Jess Kelly), BKind City, We Must Dash, Indie Twenty (Rachel), Love in Motion Yoga, Balanced Bright Life (Jessica Reagan), West End Interiors, Yoga Steve (Steve Procknal), and Lauren from Rev @liittlelauren

Favorite summer time events: Jack Craft Fair and new this year – Door Open Buffalo/Explore Buffalo, I always try and visit Shakespeare at Delaware Park too, it’s a classic summertime activity in Buffalo. Wines in the Wild at the Zoo is also one I always go to. For me being an event planner I feel like I attend a lot of events not just plan a lot so when a new event is created or its an event I have never been to – that excites me more than a recurring event, unless it has “wowed” me.

My bucket list of things to do before summer is over: Visit the new Explore & More, A hot air balloon ride (this has been on my bucket list for years), learn/try to paddle board – all those years at the Harbor and I never had a chance to do it then, visit Shirt Factory in Medina, and take a class with Ren at Rise Fitness.

-B

WNY BAC - 8th Annual Bookfest, July 13, 2019

WNY Book Arts Center (WNY BAC) is located at 468 Washington Street in Buffalo, NY and is one of the coolest places in downtown. Their mission – “To help promote a greater understanding of printing and book-related arts through education, creation, and exhibition for a broad and diverse community.”

It is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something fun to do/learn/support. I had a chance through a Buffalo Bloggers meet up to learn about the organization/business, meet some of the staff and have a hands-on experience in the process of letter pressing. It’s not only a place to go to learn to letterpress, but offers bookbinding, paper making and custom printing opportunities as well as workshops, school programs, professional development, and a shop where you can purchase a variety of postcards, artwork, notebooks and more.

 If you like books, are interested in learning more or want to check out WNY BAC and see what they are all about, they are hosting their 8th Annual Buffalo Bookfest on Saturday, July 13th from 12-5pm. More details can be found here.   

-B

photos - Just a Blonde in Buffalo

Summertime at Artpark//Free Family Saturday's

A place I enjoy visiting, but don’t go to often is Artpark. Not only does the venue provide beautiful views of the water, fun concerts to attend, but it also has some great creative, interactive events that focus on the cultural arts. Back a few weeks ago, my sister and I took my niece and nephew to the Fairy Festival, an event I haven’t attended before. It was a beautiful day in June and offered a lot of fun activities, from making fairy houses to magic potions and flower crowns, perfect for young kids. You could have tea in a fairy house, dress up as your favorite fairy and let your creativity flow. For only $10/ticket the amount of free activities that were included with the ticket were worth it for us.

Since then I’ve been better at staying up to date with events taking place at Artpark so I can plan accordingly with a packed summer schedule (which you are probably familiar with). While known for their popular summer concerts, they also are offering free family events on the following upcoming Saturday’s thanks in part to their sponsor Hyatts.

JULY 6       ART OF TRANSFORMATION

JULY 13     ART OF FANTASY

JULY 20    ART IN WATER

JULY 27    ART OF THE GAME

Each week offers a different theme with a variety of “make and take” workshops as described on their website. It also includes free parking and play spaces making it convenient for families on a budget. For more information on this head to Artpark’s website here.

Doors Open Buffalo

Yesterday with the talents of the Explore Buffalo staff and volunteers, Doors Open Buffalo took place. Offering inspiration and an appreciation for Buffalo’s unique history and architecture through free public access to significant building interiors.

From a visitor stand point I thought it was a great opportunity to visit historical buildings filled with beautiful architecture and so many stories. While walking thru the streets of downtown, it looked like hundreds of people took advantage of this great opportunity. While I didn’t get to visit every place on the list, the ones I did get o visit didn’t disappoint.

Kudos to Explore Buffalo and all the participating buildings for a great day!

-B

above: my photos from Hutch Tech

above: my photos from the Avant Building and M&T Bank (formerly Buffalo Savings Bank)

above photos: DL&W

Science After Hours/SpaceFest

Guys! Have any of you ever been to the Buffalo Museum of Science, Science After Hours events? A couple of weeks ago my sister and I attended the SpaceFest for Adults as part of the featured events for the museum. The event highlighted everything “space” related - I mean, like, viewing the City of Buffalo from the rooftop to having an opportunity to see the Kellogg Observatory and look through the Lundin telescope. There was a member of the science museum’s astronomy team on hand to tell us about the Kellogg Observatory and also tell us what we were viewing in the telescope (we got to see the sun before it set, which was pretty rad!)

photo thanks to my sister, Amber

Not only was the event fun, you learned more about the solar system, had a chance to be a part of interactive exhibits, could listen to talks taking place, got to see cool views of the City, and you were able to enjoy the museum after hours - for adults only.

just one of the views from the top of the roof deck at the Buffalo Museum of Science

The science museum hosts Science After Hours events almost every month with the next one taking place at Tifft Nature Preserve on June 20th - Tifft at Twilight- an event I attended a couple years ago, its a team effort in accomplishing a treasure hunt on the nature preserve. If you can, check. it. out!

AND if you’d like an opportunity to check out the Kellogg Observatory you can check it out with regular museum admission Wednesday’s (weather permitting) as the museum has extended hours. On Sunday’s you can gain access to the roof deck between 12-3 p.m. (also weather permitting). For all the details on the roof deck and K.O. click here.

-B

Friday Favorites

This week has left me questioning a handful of things, leaving me unsure of what my next steps may be, but I know I need to take a step back because it will all work out, it always does. I think part of my uncertainty may come from me comparing myself to others. While social media can be a great tool for many, it can also leave you feeling like you’re not doing as well or as much as you should and quite frankly it can make you feel low and want to quit when you really shouldn’t feel that way. As much as you want to use it, sometimes it may be best to take a break or step away from it so you can truly focus on you and nothing else.

As I was thinking of what to share for today’s post, it made me feel a little better seeing the simple things that happened this week and put things in perspective for me. Like last week, I’d love for you to share at least one positive thing that happened to you this week.

-B

my family had to say goodbye to Wallace our wiener dog at the beginning of the week. While we are still coping with not having him physically here, he lived a great life and brought a lot of joy and love to us and for that I am so thankful.

I met with Kim and Ginny, owners of the Zero Waste Buffalo group on Facebook and Instagram page for a blog feature I’ll be sharing next week. This photo shows just some simple things you can carry in your bag to help reduce use of single use plastics. More to come on this..

I was able to catch up with an old co-worker, turned friend at The Little Club this week. Its always a nice feeling to surround yourself with great friends.

Changed up my Thursday workout routine and took a class on lunch at Impact with my friend Kelsey. It was a nice way to break up the day.

Waterkeeper Wednesday

photo from Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper website

Today for Waterkeeper Wednesday I’m highlighting the importance of Waterkeeper Weekend, the “Un-Gala Fundraiser” and Shoreline Sweep which are all coming up next weekend - May 10th-May 12th, 2019.

Let’s begin with Waterkeeper Weekend as a whole, I want to provide you with some facts. Since 2017 thanks to the help of BN Waterkeeper’s donors 7,845 linear feet of shoreline has been restored. 2,200 volunteers have been engaged and donated over 9,000 hours of their time and $10 million has been launched for the Buffalo Blueway Project with Empire State Development. 40 tons of trash has been cleaned out of the river thanks to the help of people like yourselves in the local community participating in the shoreline sweep that Waterkeeper hosts, and while there has been great progress its not done yet. Monthly cleanups like the one being held on May 11th are vital in efforts to restore our waterways.

The Great Lakes are one of the world’s largest surface freshwater ecosystems. 84% of North America's surface fresh water comes from the Great Lakes - right in our backyard…

photo courtesy of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper

Before rolling up your sleeves and helping at one of the 50 sites for Shoreline Sweep Waterkeeper is hosting an “Un-Gala Fundraiser” at Lakeward Spirits at the Barrel Factory on May 10th to celebrate advocacy and access to our water. It’s a fun evening with food, beverage, raffles, distillery tours and live music supporting a wonderful cause. Tickets for the event can be found here

photo courtesy of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper

Whatever you choose to do, try to be a part of the celebration of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper’s 30th anniversary.

-B

As part of the Shoreline Sweep I’m raising money for Waterkeeper, if you feel generous no amount is to big or small, please consider donating to the cause - Just a Blonde In Buffalo’s team page

Waterkeeper Wednesday

It’s officially spring and with that people are leaving there homes and heading outdoors. Over the course of the next few weeks I’m going to be sharing information about a great organization in town who has and is continuing to do amazing things for our waterways.

Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper protects and restores our water and the surrounding ecosystems and helps prevent new pollution from forming. Getting the community involved and connecting people to the water through the variety of programs they lead inspires those involved to do more.

PROTECT. RESTORE. CONNECT. INSPIRE.

I sat down with Chris Murawski, Director of Community Engagement from Waterkeeper to learn more about the organization, programs and events that are coming up and just general information we should all know as we head to our waterways as the warm weather approaches.

One of Chris’s roles is to educate the community on issues with our waterways and how we can help. His role is also about listening to the community and addressing what the community needs, the problems we face and inspiring people to do more, get more involved and help with hands on activities Waterkeeper hosts.

photo courtesy of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper

As most are aware this past Monday was Earth Day and Waterkeeper spent the day planting trees at Ellicott Creek Park. Why are trees important to us? “They help 1. Reduce pollution that goes into our waterways. 2. Provide habitat for wildlife. 3. Improve water quality along shorelines. “ - BN Waterkeeper

In case you missed out on Earth Day festivities, don’t worry this coming Saturday, Waterkeeper is hosting another tree planting event from 1-4 p.m. at Ellicott Creek Park. You can register for the event here - Ellicott Creek Planting

Image courtesy of BN Waterkeeper

And if that’s not enough you can join Waterkeeper (and myself) on May 11th for their Shoreline Sweep from 10-12 p.m. There are multiple locations you can chose from and can find a complete list here - Spring Shoreline Sweep 

Next week I’ll be diving more into information on the Shoreline Sweep and why it’s so important to the region, the “Un-Gala” Fundraiser and Waterkeeper Weekend, so stay tuned!

-B

A Staple on the East Side of Buffalo

I said this in my blog post from 2015, the Broadway Market has been a staple in my childhood. Growing up on Fillmore my family and I would frequent the Market on what seemed to be a weekly basis stopping at the comic book stand (Blind Eddie’s) to pick up the latest Betty and Veronica comic on the corner of Fillmore and Broadway afterwards. Since moving to the suburbs in my junior high years we still would visit the Market but not as often. Fast forward to my adult life now and I visit it multiple times a year and with this week being Holy week I am there a couple times within just a few days.

Seeing the Market back in the 1980’s-1990’s and comparing it to now - my oh my how it has changed, I can only imagine how it was when it first opened. From being a place that people would make a part of there daily and weekly routines to now only visiting during the Easter season, it makes me thankful for the time I was able to see it really active.

The Market was created “As immigrants flocked to the east side of Buffalo in the late 1800’s. They looked for the continuation of old world customs in their new and unfamiliar environment. While they wanted to enter the mainstream of city life, they also sought to preserve their Eastern European traditions and heritage. The Broadway Market would prove to serve these needs quite well.” (The Broadway Market -History).

“Started by a group of citizens on a city donated parcel at 999 Broadway in 1888, the Broadway Market quickly became a community meeting place–a place ideal for combining business with socializing and for sharing with one another the latest in gossip and news from the old world. “ (The Broadway Market - History).

As people visit the Market during this week to pick up their traditional Easter pieces, it makes me think what is being done during the rest of the year to help activate the Market. I know last summer they tried to host a series of farmers markets, how successful was that I’m not quite sure. In a news piece Spectrum News posted on 4/14/19 it sounds like plans to make improvements are in the works and over the course of the next couple of years visitors should be able to see those improvements, hopefully calling people to visit more often than just during Holy week.

Visiting my friend Shanna in Milwaukee this past Fall she took us to Milwaukee Public Market - a gathering place where people can eat, get fresh food and even take a cooking class from time to time. To have something like that in Buffalo I think would be great and I think taking ideas from that Milwaukee Public Market and applying to the Broadway Market may be what it needs to reactivate and reinvigorate that area on Broadway and the Market in general. Right now in my opinion Its the dedicated vendors who have been there for decades and the families who are passing down there traditions to the younger generation that keep the Broadway Market thriving. Hopefully if the City invests in the East Side and allots money for improvements in the Market it will last for many more years to come, I guess only time will tell. Maybe its because its been a part of my life, but I feel that at the end of the day the elected officials need to invest more time and efforts in seeing the Market improve.

Lastly here is a shameless plug - follow me on Instagram as I visit the Market this week and come visit me on Monday, I’ll be one of the judges for Buffalo’s Best Kielbasa contest at the Market beginning at noon. Come join in the Dyngus Day festivities.

-B

A special thank you to Aniela Baj from Council Member, Fillmore District David Franczyk’s office and Beverly McLean, President of the Friends of the Broadway Market District, for providing me with information for this piece.

Women Who Move Buffalo - Shawna Stanley

“DON’T LET YOURSELF FEEL SMALL”

— Shawna Stanley

On this International Women’s Day, that quote above says it all, don’t allow yourself or anyone else to make you feel small.

photo credit - @David_Jaan

On a Saturday morning at Five Points Bakery I sat down with Shawna Stanley, a photographer (specializing in Birth Photography, Shawna & Co.) and entrepreneur, building The Vanguard House - a co-working community & social club for the modern woman, right here in Buffalo. I was introduced to Shawna through Carrie Rinehart, owner of Rusterior and creator of Buffalo Boss Babes. Meeting Shawna when I did, comes at a time in my life when I need to surround myself with inspiration and positive people. She reminded me that the current situations I am faced with professionally should not have the power to dictate how I feel, make me feel little or make me second guess my talents, hard work and integrity.

From Southern California, Shawna moved to Buffalo with her children to live with her Mother (who is originally from Buffalo and moved back) during a difficult time in her life, looking for extra support. Once being here, Shawna was drawn to the east coast - the people here - it’s a sense of community and she loves the culture of Buffalo.

So you may be asking yourself what is The Vanguard House? What is the idea/concept behind it?

The Vanguard House is a community space here in Buffalo offering support and possibilities to the modern day working woman. Woman will be able to go here and feel empowered and be productive.

Why did Shawna start this?

Because she moved to Buffalo with her kids in tow, 5 boxes and no income. It was through her diligence in connecting with people in the photography business that she realized there needed to be a place to work - a space that would offer child care opportunities, a place to work and a place to connect. She began by doing her research, visiting other cities (like NYC), sending out surveys (which you can find here) and building great connections.

So where did the name come from?

Her and her fiancee have talked about opening a community garage and using Vanguard, which means a group of people leading the way in new developments or ideas. Since the community garage didn’t happen yet, she took the name of it. The Vanguard House is supposed to feel like a second home to women.

What is Shawna’s favorite thing about Buffalo?

Buffalo gives entrepreneurs an opportunity to put there dreams and ideas to work. They go a long way here.

What are the next steps for both The Vanguard House and Shawna & Co.?

In regards to Shawna’s photography business focusing and dialing in more on family and birth photography are more her passion. As Shawna’s vision for the The Vanguard House continues to grow and her dreams and ideas turn into reality you can follow The Vanguard House on Facebook .

The Vanguard House is about women connecting with themselves. Going through this process has showed her how evident it is that women need this space .

Her favorite quote?

“The things you are passionate about are not random, they are your calling.” - Fabienne Fredrickson

What motivates her to keep going?

Shawna is thankful to have a tight knit group of people to give her pep talks, keep her going, push her and remind her on those tough days to not give up.

Shawna’s favorite women to follow on social media?

• Katie Campofelice (partner and friend in The Vanguard House)

• Mover and Shaker - Miki Agrawal - she started following her through Instagram and connected with her through an online book club.

• Laurel Flynn - an intuitive coach who helped Shawna push her vision to a more scalable vision

Other local groups that have helped Shawna along the way - Block Club who helped with the branding and a lot of different processes, Small Business Development Center, The Women’s Business Center at Canisius, NAWBO and some private consultants in the business realm.

For more information on The Vanguard House subscribe to the mailing list on their site.

And remember “Hold Fast to Your Dream”

.

photo cred - Shawna & Co

Women Who Move Buffalo - Carrie Rinehart

“HERE’S TO STRONG WOMEN. MAY WE KNOW THEM.

MAY WE RAISE THEM. MAY WE BE THEM.”

On a Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago I met up with Carrie Rinehart, founder & director of Buffalo Boss Babes and owner of Rusterior. I met Carrie at the first Buffalo Boss Babes Speaker Series event - Growth last April at Buffalo Distilling Company and have since followed her and all the amazingly cool things she has been and continues to do in WNY. Carrie embodies a positive, can-do attitude, is an inspiration to me (and many more!) and is a kick ass business owner, mother, wife and friend (and did I mention she also has full-time job).

Since attending that first Boss Babes event last April it has truly left an impact on my life. It may be crazy to think attending one networking event can make all the difference, but for me it has. Like many of the women who have attended & spoke at the Boss Babes events, we all struggle with similar worries, ambitions, etc. Being able to have a networking group to turn to, to ask for help, to get advice or feedback, to vent to one another about bumps in the road, or to celebrate achievements, makes all the difference in the world because it reminds us that we aren’t alone. It helps us continue to keep going & pushing towards the goals we set for ourselves vs. giving up & throwing in the towel. We are all hard on ourselves, especially because we all want to succeed & play a role in making a positive influence in our community, but we need to remind ourselves that its OK to take breaks, to go at your own speed & to keep doing you & not worry about the “outside noise.” Its thanks to Carrie creating this blog & providing encouragement & inspiration to us that we have this strong network of women learning about one another & helping each other as we move toward the course we have set out for ourselves.

For those that may not know a lot about Rusterior and Buffalo Boss Babes, let me tell ya a little bit about both. Rusterior is a Goods and Wearable’s shop located in Fredonia, NY (you can find Carrie’s storefront inside Fredonia Farmhouse Finds) you can also shop online. Carrie hand prints cool clothes and goods to have in your everyday lives, so make sure you check her site out! Buffalo Boss Babes is a woman run blog and social media feed that features awesome women in and around Buffalo. The mission of Buffalo Boss Babes is to inspire and empower the creative woman who help build the resurgence in Buffalo.

Below is my Q&A with Carrie about both Rusterior & Buffalo Boss Babes (BBB).

HOW DID RUSTERIOR HAPPEN?

I KNEW I ALWAYS WANTED TO OPEN A BUSINESS SO I STARTED (7 YEARS AGO) BY CREATING ALL DIFFERENT THINGS - SCARVES, ACCESSORIES, THE SEWN BUFFALO ON A SHIRT & IT HAS EVOLVED INTO WHAT IT IS TODAY.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM YOU SELL?

THE BUFFALO HATS . THEY ARE A UNIVERSAL PIECE THAT EVERYONE LIKES AND THEY DON’T NEED A SIZE.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR CUSTOMERS FAVORITE PIECE(S) & WHAT PIECE(S) DO YOU LIKE TO MAKE?

THE BUFFALO HATS & SWEATSHIRTS ARE FAVORITE CUSTOMER PIECES. MAKING T-SHIRTS IS SOMETHING I ENJOY DOING THE MOST- SCREEN PRINTING IS A FAVORITE OF MINE.

WHAT ARE SOME GOALS/CHANGES HAPPENING IN 2019? WHAT WILL BE EVOLVING WITH RUSTERIOR AS WE MOVE FORWARD?

A LOT OF CHANGES ARE HAPPENING AT RUSTERIOR. WE ARE MOVING IN THE READY TO SHIP DIRECTION SO CUSTOMERS HAVE A QUICKER SHIP TIME (5-7 DAYS). CUSTOMERS WILL BE ABLE TO ORDER CUSTOM SCREEN PRINTS STILL BUT MAY HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL PRINTING HAPPENS AGAIN.

*NOTE TO YOUR SELF - CARRIE HAS A BUNCH OF ITEMS UP ON HER SHOP LIKE THESE GOODIES:

SO MAKE SURE TO SNAG YOURS BEFORE THEY’RE GONE.

WHY DID YOU START BUFFALO BOSS BABES?

I WAS LOOKING TO NETWORK MORE AND THE NETWORKING EVENTS I WERE ATTENDING WERE THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR. I WANTED TO TALK TO PEOPLE ABOUT BUSINESS. I ATTENDED A ROC GIRL GANG EVENT AND LOVED THE VIBE AND THOUGHT BUFFALO NEEDED THIS AND THAT IS WHAT INSPIRED ME TO CREATE BUFFALO BOSS BABES, WHICH STARTED AS A BLOG AND THEN GREW INTO EVENTS THAT BOSS BABES WANTED TO ME TO START.

WHAT DO YOU GET OUT OF BUFFALO BOSS BABES? & WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO GET OUT OF IT?

BBB IS A TRUE COMMUNITY, IT’S RAW & IT’S REAL. IT’S A GROUP OF WOMEN COMING TOGETHER TO INSPIRE ONE ANOTHER, LEARN FROM ONE ANOTHER & SUPPORT EACH OTHER.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM RUSTERIOR?

YOU’LL NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST STRANGER ONLINE SALE. IT’S A “HOLY COW” MOMENT.

HOW FAR IS YOUR FURTHEST CUSTOMER? & DO YOU COLLABORATE WITH OTHER BOUTIQUES OUTSIDE OF WNY?

MY FURTHEST CUSTOMER WAS IN AUSTRALIA AND I COLLABORATE WITH BOUTIQUES IN IDAHO AND OHIO. FOR ME COLLABORATING FOR RUSTERIOR IS ABOUT ALWAYS REACHING OUT AND FINDING EACH OTHER VIA SOCIAL MEDIA (INSTAGRAM).

WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT IN 2019 FOR BUFFALO BOSS BABES?

BBB WILL HAVE MORE EVENTS, COLLABORATIONS AND VOLUNTEERS. THERE WILL ALSO BE ONE BIG EVENT HAPPENING THIS YEAR SO STAY TUNED FOR MORE DETAILS!

BEST THING YOU LOVE ABOUT BUFFALO?

THE PEOPLE! YOU CAN’T GO ANYWHERE AND FIND GENUINE PEOPLE THAT YOU CAN BE FRIENDS WITH. BUFFALO’S VIBE IS MORE RELAXED AND CHILL.

FAVORITE QUOTE?

“FEAR KILLS MORE DREAMS THAN FAILURE EVER WILL”

WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE THROWING IN THE TOWEL OR TIRED WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING?

MY SUPPORT SYSTEM. YOU’RE ALLOWED TO TAKE BREAKS AND SHUT DOWN, THE WORLD WILL CONTINUE TO GO ON & THAT’S OK.

FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLET? FACEBOOK OR INSTAGRAM?

INSTAGRAM IS MY FAVORITE OUTLET, ALWAYS ON IT. FACEBOOK FOR THE BUSINESS TRAFFIC . SOCIAL MEDIA WHETHER YOU LOVE IT OR HATE IT, IT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER.

**Photo Credit shout outs go to: Seek Axiom, Lovern Photography, Alexis Mohr Photography

Art of the Brick at the Buffalo Museum of Science

Last night thanks to my friends at the Buffalo Museum of Science and Visit Buffalo Niagara, I got to attend a preview night for the new exhibit - Art of the Brick opening tomorrow - February 9. The exhibit is labeled as one of CNN’s Top 10 ‘Global Must See Exhibitions’ and I can see why. It is such a cool exhibit, like none other! Running through May 5th, make sure to check it out!

Here are just some of the gazillion photos that my sister and I took last night.

Pointing

Piece Count: 21,454

Strength of Spirit

Piece Count: 8,050

Lumagination 2019

Its been a few years since I’ve attended the Lumagination event at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens so this past weekend my sister along with my niece and nephew went with me to see “The Magic of Air.” Running until February 24th I suggest getting there early (you may have to wait in line for a few minutes) but walking through the exhibits isn’t as crowded.

There are some special themed nights, like, Family Night with the Buffalo Zoo where Zoo members receive Botanical Garden member prices. They also offer Lumagination Happy Hours for those looking to grab a drink or two before (or after) experiencing the exhibit

You can find pricing, dates, times and more information at Buffalo Gardens. com

Harlie & Me ...& Her Family Tree

It’s been a hot minute since I posted about Harlie. As I’m writing this post she’s currently curled up in a ball next to me sleeping (oh Harlie girl <3). Harlie turned three years old a few weeks ago and we celebrated with some of her best pals coming over (my niece and nephew). Harlie continues to do what she loves - chasing rabbits, eating snow and digging for socks out of the hamper and having me chase her around the house with them in her mouth.

For Christmas, my brother, Matt, got me an Ancestry DNA kit which I was super stoked for, but also got me a Wisdom Panel DNA kit for Harlie (which made me more excited). I didn’t even know they had DNA kits for your pets. The whole process overall, from collecting the DNA to sending it in was pretty simple. I received Harlie’s results a little over a week ago. Check it out…

So to recap about Harlie, I adopted her from Diamonds in the Ruff (located in Niagara County) when she was about 10 weeks old. All I knew about her was her approximate age, that she came from Kentucky and that she was a boxer/spaniel mix.

When I read through the results I was surprised by some areas and not surprised in others. For instance, Harlie is part boxer (already new that), but she also has part Saint Bernard in her (how cool!). The results also showed me she is not only energetic and smart, but loyal. See below for more details.

The DNA kit not only broke down the different dog breeds and explanations, but also broke down her family tree all the way to her great grandparents. Overall I’m happy with the results and knowing more about Harlie’s background.

Until next time,

-B & Harlie