Returning to the Nest

My youngest daughter moved to LA California nearly 3 years ago at the ripe age of 19 to pursue a degree in fashion from FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising).  She had seen this school on many episodes of "The Hills" and "Laguna Beach", and decided that this was the place she needed to go for the best fashion education possible.  At the time, she had been struggling in college with her grades, and I truly didn't think she had a chance of getting into this very prestigious school...... but like anything else this child puts her mind to...... she made it happen.

After Lauren was accepted to attend FIDM, the 3 of us (Joe, myself and Lauren) flew out to LA to check out this 'supposedly' prestigious school.  I must admit I was leery because I knew of her academic woes, and doubted a prestigious school would accept her, so I figured it must be one of those 'you pay, you get to play' kinda of deals.  But no!!!!  I was completely surprised to find that this school is indeed quite prestigious when we toured the facility...... awed and impressed would be better adjectives to describe my reaction.  Lauren's advisor told us that she was not qualified to enter their program because of her grades, but...... she had to submit 4 pieces of creative artwork to turn in with her application, and it was her talent that got her accepted into this school.  She would have to work very hard to get her grades up to snuff, but she indeed did get accepted.  So at the young age of 19, she moved to LA all on her own and started her fashion education.

Now here it is nearly 3 years later, she is all grown up, matured and ready to start her career in fashion.  Her ultimate goal is to be a personal shopper or personal stylist, having her own shop with a regular client list.  This is truly where Lauren's gift lies, she is very talented at putting pieces of clothing and accessories together to match a person's age, body and lifestyle.  In fact she has been my personal stylist for the past few years and my reputation of being "stylish" has boomed under her guidance.  She has given me more confidence in my fashion sense and I just love being 'chic'.  I see clothing and accessories in a totally new light thanks to Lauren.

So for the next few months or so....... however long it takes for her to get settled and established in her new career (she starts work at Talbot's Monday..... this job has the potential to lead her in the direction she wants to go with her career), she is back home with us and our nest is no longer empty, but will have bubbly joy in it again.  I'm sure there will be plenty of days that Joe and I miss our quiet moments and routines, but honestly...... I've always enjoyed my girls being home.

Lauren has her life wide open in front of her with many possibilities..... will be interesting and fun to see where it all takes her.  WELCOME HOME Lauren!!!! Lauren is a big, big, big hugger and I will be very happy to receive as many hugs as she can give!