Don't feel like you have to change overnight! Don't be afraid to pace yourself. Remember that real change takes time. ...
Happy November!
I can hardly believe that we are at the end of 2018!
I wanted to write a little note to encourage you to KEEP GOING!!! Don't stop pursuing your goals, don't stop believing in your gifts, and don't stop believing in yourself!
KEEP GOING!
I am a firm believer that strategy is important and we must level up! But, while leveling up, don't give up!
Finish the year STRONG and stay committed to your process!
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if you faint not. Galatians 6:9
This beautiful blazer is from Eleven60! I love the detail and the fit od this blazer. It can be worn with jeans, leggings, and as seen here a pencil skirt. It is so cute that I paired it with my favorite accessory, my red Moschino belt! The detail and quality of this blazer is on POINT!
May you finish the year strong and fly!!!
Don't give up!
Happy November! I can hardly believe that we are at the end of 2018! I wanted to write a little note to encourage you t...
When I first started blogging, I just wanted to express myself and share my story. I get so many questions about blogging and what I do. Yes, it's a ton of fun, but it is WORK! So, I thought I would do a blog post discussing a bit of this beautiful and colorful blogger life!
Here are a few questions I get all of the time:
What do bloggers do?
"The primary task of a blogger is to produce content in the form of articles.
Blog content is how you provide value to your audience, educate them on what your business is about, and ultimately build trust with them before you can expect them to spend any money."
Here's a link to a great article on what bloggers do.
How I describe what I do:
I am a faith and fashion blogger and Creative Life Stylist! My blog focuses on being confident, looking good, and journey with Christ. I creatively use my life, my healing, and my story to provide hope and help to others as we overcome some of life's greatest obstacles.
I work with and collaborate with different companies and showcase looks with a hashtag called #SundaysWithTot. I love showing women that we can confidently look amazing while healing. My goal when I started TotallyTot.com was to be a resource for women and encourage myself along the way. I started this blog 3 years ago and had no clue that the possibilities were endless as a blogger and content creator.
According to a Harper's Bazaar, "We've officially entered the age where bloggers have really crossed over from simply running their own personal sites to starring in campaigns, commercials and even on magazine covers. Now all forms of social and digital media are allowing bloggers to really succeed in running their own business." Click here to check out the full article.
I am also asked the next question all of the time:
Do bloggers get paid?
YES! Some major companies work with and collaborate with bloggers. Bloggers are compensated depending on levels of influence most of the time. Here's a great article on the topic.
My personal experience: When I first started blogging I was not looking to be paid. I just wanted to live my authentic life and share my thoughts! Then...boom!! The more blogging I did, the more I started to get inquiries from different companies to collaborate. It first started with clothes in exchange for an Instagram post and/or blog post then it graduated to paid opportunities.
My most recent collaboration is with MAC Cosmetics in Water Tower in Chicago. Here's a pic with the Manager Emily!
I am learning it's truly about connecting and building relationships.
The final question I get a lot:
How do I start a blog?
I am a firm believer that just because you do something does not mean you should teach on that topic.
So, here are some links to check out regarding starting a blog.
Resources on starting a blog:
I wanted to clear up some questions that I get all of the time. I hope this helps!
When I first started blogging I had no clue the other things I would start doing. Blogging has opened the door to other businesses for me such as:
1. Speaker
2. Workshop Facilitator
3. Style Consultant
4. Brand Ambassador
The possibilities are truly endless and I am trusting God with the future.
Links for clothes:
All from Shein!
Use me code "10th07" for a special discount!
When I first started blogging, I just wanted to express myself and share my story. I get so many questions about blogging and what ...
I was having a conversation with my Aunt when she said, "Get up girl, that ain't cute!!" WHEW!!!! Talk about an aha moment! I typically have these when I speak with my Aunts.
I was sharing how I recently was feeling overwhelmed with life. Don't get me wrong I am not complaining, just explaining. I thank God that I am able to work for myself and make my own schedule but that comes with tons of pressure! Pressure is a real thing!
As I was sharing the pressures of life I was reminded to take time throughout my day to PAUSE & REGROUP! My Aunt reminded me that not taking care of myself just ain't cute! She gave me a great idea to add myself to my calendar! I thought this was such a great idea and I needed that. I mean I have everything else on my calendar, even my daily devotional time. After our conversation, I will be adding ME TIME to my calendar. I will use this time to just pause, take a walk, and sometimes just be! I needed this reminder. I hope this helps you too! Add yourself to your calendar. Take a moment where you just be! Even when work is hectic, you're walking in purpose, worshipping God, but still feel burnt out! Allocate formal moments to just be!
Put you on the calendar and don't skip that appointment!!!
Let's talk details about this look!
This top is from Shein and I'm loving these dramatic sleeves! I ordered this top is a 2XL but could have sized down to a 1XL. I am noticing that Shein's sizing is getting more consistent and I am so here for it! They are also celebrating 10 years in business!!!! Use my special code "10th07" for 20% off your purchase on their site!
I was having a conversation with my Aunt when she said, "Get up girl, that ain't cute!!" WHEW!!!! Talk about an aha momen...
Well, Fall has truly arrived! While many love fall, I just make it work! It's not my favorite season but it's a fun season. Lol! My new life requires leggings a lot more now and I am thankful for that! Leggings & dusters have been working for me. I feel like everyone should have a signature style that's just easy...this is mine!
This particular duster is from Shein! Shein is celebrating 1o years in business so I have a special promo code for you!
Use code "10th07" for 20% off of your order.....no exceptions!
Well, Fall has truly arrived! While many love fall, I just make it work! It's not my favorite season but it's a fun season. Lol...
Fun outfits make life just a tad bit brighter!
I can hardly believe that summer is wrapping up. But, I am going to ride the summer wave until till the wheels fall off! I am going to enjoy every ounce of the sun until I just can't! It's my quest to live in and enjoy the moment and not be anxious for the future.
This jumpsuit is the perfect look to embrace the sun and the warm weather.
This jumpsuit ran a little bit bigger than expected. I was still able to make it work.
Most of my fun summer looks have been from the amazingly affordable Shein and this jumpsuit here is no different.
Working with Shein has been amazing!
I love collaborating with brands that people are interested in. I've had many people walk up to me and tell me they've tried Shein!
EXCITING!!!!!
Don't forget to use my code "total20" when ordering from Shein! It works for orders over $60.
Happy Shopping & Happy Summer....
FALL IS NOT HERE YET!!!! ha!
Fun outfits make life just a tad bit brighter! I can hardly believe that summer is wrapping up. But, I am going to ride the su...
Often times people will try to CONTROL you with things that only serve them!
The word of God says......
To watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their OWN appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.Romans 16:17-18 ESV
So, how do you NOT BE NAIVE?? See what the WORD says below:
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)
Amen......
Often times people will try to CONTROL you with things that only serve them! The word of God says...... To watch out ...
I recently shared with a close friend how tired I was. Tired of fighting my deepest darkest demons. I just decided to give in and even made some major mistakes this summer. I felt like I couldn’t get over certain bumps that required major discipline, focus, and quite frankly me to fight for my life!
Once upon a time, I was in love with the journey to a better me, that was until the journey began to feel like torture. As a Christian, it’s easy to unconsciously give God a time frame. Like, "okay God you have about 9 months of my obedience then I’m going rogue!" Shaking my head at myself! What’s wrong with me??? The funny thing about the struggle is it’s no secret! Everyone can tell but the enemy makes you believe you have things under control. The devil is a liar!!!!!!! Fight for your life!!!!!!!
Effective immediately, I’ll be increasing my study time. I have slacked greatly in my personal devotion and study time. I can feel every part of me weakening to the things I struggle with. My weapons have been tucked away......but not anymore!!!!! I’m back in the fight! It’s time to fight for my life!!! I wanted to make this a blog post versus a personal journal entry because you too may need to fight for your life!!!!!! Turn up the fight in the spirit! The enemy comes to KILL you, Steal your destiny and destroy every part of you! Fight!!!!!!!!! I’ve been running on fumes while aiming for “self-care” missing the most vital part of taking care of my self.....JESUS!
Once upon a time, I was in love with the journey to a better me, that was until the journey began to feel like torture. As a Christian, it’s easy to unconsciously give God a time frame. Like, "okay God you have about 9 months of my obedience then I’m going rogue!" Shaking my head at myself! What’s wrong with me??? The funny thing about the struggle is it’s no secret! Everyone can tell but the enemy makes you believe you have things under control. The devil is a liar!!!!!!! Fight for your life!!!!!!!
Effective immediately, I’ll be increasing my study time. I have slacked greatly in my personal devotion and study time. I can feel every part of me weakening to the things I struggle with. My weapons have been tucked away......but not anymore!!!!! I’m back in the fight! It’s time to fight for my life!!! I wanted to make this a blog post versus a personal journal entry because you too may need to fight for your life!!!!!! Turn up the fight in the spirit! The enemy comes to KILL you, Steal your destiny and destroy every part of you! Fight!!!!!!!!! I’ve been running on fumes while aiming for “self-care” missing the most vital part of taking care of my self.....JESUS!
I realize that every new level in life is going to require GREATER discipline and greater focus. I know that I can do neither in my own strength so I am trusting God to give me the tools for the fight!
I am back in the FIGHT!!!!
Dress from Shein!
Use my code "total20" for a discount off of any order over $60!
Dress from Shein!
Use my code "total20" for a discount off of any order over $60!
I recently shared with a close friend how tired I was. Tired of fighting my deepest darkest demons. I just decided to give in and even ma...
Well hello, 34!!!!
On, August 3rd I turned 34 and I am feeling so thankful to see another year! All I really wanted for my birthday was to dance, chill, and laugh!!!
For so many years I was a slave to my birthday. I felt like I had to be completely over the top. I would put pressure on myself to travel, and do the most! By the time my birthday was over, I needed a vacation from all of the festivities. GEESH!!!! But, for the last couple of years.....I have learned to chill. I am excited for 34! I am excited to see what God has planned for me! My goal is to focus on God and learn to lean in and hear HIM more.
Mood for 34...
Matthew 6:33
Seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
Now about this look!
Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti
Bag: Vintage Louis Vuiton
This comfy dress from Shein aided greatly in my chill birthday celebration!
Can you believe it is only $26? I could have used a 2X but I ordered a 3X to be on the safe side.
Well hello, 34!!!! On, August 3rd I turned 34 and I am feeling so thankful to see another year! All I really wanted for my birt...
The last 2 years or so God has been dealing with me about speaking up. I’m not shy but I’d much rather keep the peace than learn how to properly advocate for myself. I’m always ready to drop someone or the situation rather than stay and learn to have a healthy conversation. One major lesson I learned in my last position was how to advocate for myself. I wanted to walk away so many times but God made me stay and speak up and watch HIM do the rest!!!
I had to learn that if it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you and sometimes change is GOOD! I believe that we must learn the difference between being stretched and being drained. Everything isn’t draining you, some situations were sent to stretch you. The only way we will know the difference is by PRAYER & DISCERNMENT! Too often we are chasing peace that we miss out on opportunities to level UP and be stretched. Nothing ever happens in your comfort zone. There’s always going to be a need for perseverance! Here’s a couple of scriptures that kept me as I learned to speak up and trust the Lord!!!!
James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
Acts 18:9-10 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.”
Proverbs 31:8 ESV Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.
The last 2 years or so God has been dealing with me about speaking up. I’m not shy but I’d much rather keep the peace than learn how to pro...
