Letting GO...

Happy Saturday!

I am learning to let go. 

Of my concerns, worries, thoughts, wants, desires. AND truly letting Jesus handle everything. Why does it feel difficult, when I know it really isn't?

I know that Jesus has all control, and I can't handle anything by myself (trust me, I've tried). 

Taking a deep breath, and letting go....

What are your tips or experiences with dealing with this?

Quite Amazing

Happy Monday!

*Taking time to remember those who served this country and are no longer with us*

It's funny, lately I've been feeling a sense of peace. 

My nights went from - busy nights working late and jumping into school work; to rushing home from work to get dinner started and appreciating the moments I have to put my feet up on the table and watch Dancing With The Stars. (Old news - but so glad Kelly won, BTW!) 

I made a promise to Jesus that with my extra free time, now that I've graduated, I'd give Him more of my time. My nights are often spent diving into the book of John and picking up on things I missed the last time I read it. It's quite amazing to me that there could be so much within each scripture. In fact the more understanding Jesus gives me, it's like a part of my spirit is awakened and I am becoming more alive. 

For the first time in my life, I am living. 

It's all quite amazing actually...

The peace I have when my house is clean, laundry is done, and I have a plan for taking care of my finances.

The confidence I feel in the choices I make; that I am in full authority and control of my life. 

The understanding that when things do not go as planned or chaos is around me, I can focus on Jesus and  escape my worries. In fact, I can always do this and He will keep me. 

The appreciation I have for those around me; family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and even those I do not know. The beauty of everyone in their own being, 

The fascination I have for being swift to hear but slow to speak. Oh, how much more do I grasp!

The gratitude I have for God's plan for me. 

Knowing that He is in control and because I understand that, I too am in control. It's funny. I would have never thought these would be my thoughts, but I am so thankful that He has changed my mind. I am being continually transformed and I love every moment of it. 

I have also been quite transformed in the kitchen as well. 

Haha! Adrian sure appreciates it. 

Tonight I'm making sausage and onion flat-bread pizzas. 

Yum. 

Have a great week! :)

New Year, New Beginnings, New Story, New Hair!

Hello! 

Do you remember me?  :(

It's been almost a year since the last time I posted. While I am sad that I was away from my blog for such a long time, so much has changed for the better!

The end of 2012 was tough for me, I was struggling with some things at my job, finances, priorities, relationships, and really just felt a spirit of depression all over me. By December, I looked back on the year and was upset that I had not accomplished most of the things I said I would. I was in a bad place and often buried my problems in things that made me feel better for the moment. I told myself I couldn't continue to live as I had and needed a change. 

The best thing that has happened to me, was right after the new year! I decided to grow further into my spirituality and accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior! Ever since January, 6, 2013, my life has changed for the better! I feel a new energy and excitement for my life and future. I know that the best part of my life is to come! There have been many promises that God has given me and I believe in each and everyone of them. Immediately I saw my life turn around for the better. 

So much to catch you up on, so here's a quick recap!

Me and my hunny made it official! I am working on planning the wedding for next spring and I am so happy that I have such a loving man to spend the rest of my life with. 

In March, I was blessed with a new car that I love! 

In April, I celebrated my 26th birthday! 

AND last not but certainly not least, early this month, I graduated!

I have been working on having a good relationship with God, my hunny, my family, and my friends. God has really helped to put a balance in my life that I can truly say, I have never had. I am so grateful for all that I have and the renewal I have received in my life. 

I am excited to let you all join me in my new journey - with Christ, love and marriage, wedding planning, adulthood, health & fitness, fashion, and just about anything I plan to blab about on here. 

AND.... let's not forget my new hair journey...

 Earlier this week, I decided to start wearing my hair in its natural state...

 I've been without relaxers for a few years, but have always felt some fear in embracing my curls. Not any longer! So, What do you think?

How are you all doing? 

Any exciting life changes?

Hope you have a great weekend!

TheLookBag Review + New Do + Giveaway Winner!

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening, 

whenever this may meet you hope it's great! :)

I'm quickly typing as I still need to get ready for work this A.M. and I must get this post out today.

My past week in photos:

Right. Went to scour the racks at Marshall's to find a dress and ran into Michael Kors.

Middle. Yummy Margherita Pizza from the Caf at work

Left. My 2nd Month getting a package from TheLookBag

Speaking of TheLookBag, 

I figured I'd show you just what came inside this month. For those of you who aren't familiar with the program. It's similar to Birchbox and lot of the other beauty samples programs. You pay a monthly fee of $10, and each month you receive about 5 "luxury" beauty samples.
The Look Store is a new celebrity and beauty e-commerce site founded by Alan Mruvka, who started the E! Entertainment channel.
What drew me into this, however, was Damone Roberts, the celebrity eyebrow guru who picks out what goes into the bags each month. 

This month included:

(From Top Left Clockwise) 

1. Kelly Teergarden Organics Vitality Eye Cream

2. The New Black Nail Polish in 2 Summer Shades

3. Loreal Eye Shadow 

4. Naked Princess Lip Gloss in four shades

5. Erno Laszlo skincare regimen

My Fave had to be the polish. I immediately painted my puppies with the coral shade. 

Love.

BTW.

If you follow me on Instagram (lovelyladyjb1) you would have noticed I dyed my hair!! 

I officially love it. I took the plunge, it was scary. I've never colored my hair before. My sister told me once you color you'll never go back. I believe it. I'm already thinking about my next move. Ha! 

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And last but certainly not least, the winner of my giveaway last week is...

 MissRockwell @ Thrifty and Shameless! 

MissRockwell, please contact me with your information so that I can get the giftcard to you!

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That's all for now.. Happy Tuesday Loves.

OOTD : Nordstrom Striped Blazer, F21 Distressed Denim

Ok. So, I totally didn't make it to the fashion show I was raving about the other day. Long story short, I had nothing to wear. I told you guys about my frequent annoyances of going into my closet and coming out with ZILCH.

Well that was kinda the case... I skidaddled Marshall's to see what I could find. Got half way through the store and couldn't hold my arms up anymore, because they had SO MANY great summer finds!

 When I finally got to the fitting room, I tried everything on.. Only to not find anything to wear. 

Back to Square One, and at this point it was 6:30pm. (It started at 6)

So, that's my excuse story.

Blue + White Striped Blazer - Nordstrom's Rack

White Burnout Tee - The Buckle

Light Denim Distressed Jeans - Forever 21

Blue Sandal Wedges - DSW

Gold Chain Necklace - Heartbreaker

Bangles - H&M, Len Druskin 

(in case you don't know I am obsessed with these..)

I'm really trying to get a hold of my blog again, as well as juggling work, and personal life. It's hard! For all of you bloggers out there juggling more than I do - KUDOS!
What are your tips and tricks? Do Tell.

P.S. Two More Days to Enter My Giveaway (Click to Enter)!!