*Cues* Summertime by Will Smith!!! Yassssss, Chicago has finally received some great consistent weather. I am excited to be more ...
Can you believe that we are at the end of March? HOW?!?!
Well, I have 2 more features for Women's History month! I am still focused on celebrating young women who are inspirational and simply amazing!
Today's feature is the amazing Artyssa!!! This young lady is FIRE! She's a creative mastermind who I just love. Of course, as I do all of my guests, I asked Artyssa to share some of her journey and whatever she chooses.
Well........ she did not disappoint!
Becoming The Woman of God's Dreams
Hey ya’ll! My name is Artyssa Mornay and I am 24 years old. I grew up in both Georgia and Florida, where my family currently resides in the city of Gainesville (Go Gators!). 4 years ago I moved to Chicago (where I currently live) to attend Columbia College to study music and education. Little did I know God was way more intentional about bringing me to this city than I originally thought. Since moving here my life has been forever changed, especially due to my attendance at the church All Nations Worship Assembly. I am currently an educator, an ordained Evangelist, content creator, and a makeup artist. But in the next 5 years I see myself being a full-time entrepreneur and doing makeup for major films and media; possibly living/working between Chicago and Los Angeles and spreading the good news of the love, salvation, and power of Christ around the world.
It took me a while to realize that I am enough. It took me awhile to realize that I didn’t have to be everything God called me to be all at once, but that a walk with God is just that, a walk. It’s a journey of discovery, of ups and downs, of lessons and experiences that will someday, somehow mold me into what He originally intended. After years of striving and toiling with my identity. I suddenly found myself wondering “what if the only one who feels like I’m not enough is me?” “What if the areas in my life that are broken are here in this season for a reason... for the glory that has YET to be revealed?” I finally found rest in the revelation that I am everything God wants me to be right now in this season, and that I have grace to continually be renewed and grow into myself. In a process called becoming. You know like the Michelle Obama book that’s on all of our reading lists but if you are anything like me, you are still “planning to get to it”? Yeah procrastination is definitely a weakness of mine...
Which brings me to my first point: Becoming the woman of God’s dreams means glorying in your weaknesses because you know that His strength is made perfect there! Procrastination did not irritate me as much as me knowing that I procrastinated used to irritate me. You see how that works? It’s not the actual struggle, but the fact that I struggled that made me hold myself in contempt. But when I realized that my weaknesses were not my shame but a place for God’s glory to be revealed I was able to have a lot more grace for my weaknesses and guess what? I get a lot more accomplished because of that! And that's what becoming the woman of God’s dreams is all about. It’s about accepting yourself for everything you are and allowing Him the time and the access to make you into everything you are going to be.
Which brings me to my second point:
Ooo you have to say this one out loud with me! “Becoming the woman of God’s dreams means knowing that YOU HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE!!!!!!" (Ok, now repeat it until you believe it!) I rejoice in the fact that I don’t have to impress God! The pressure to be impressive is a universal crisis right now. Social media, the workplace, even church - it’s like people constantly feel the need to prove themselves. But there is something about being so secure in what God has placed inside of you, that you won’t hinder Him in moments He wants to use you due to your own pressure to perform. This security is only formed in the secret place and trust me we are all still getting there.
Ooo you have to say this one out loud with me! “Becoming the woman of God’s dreams means knowing that YOU HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE!!!!!!" (Ok, now repeat it until you believe it!) I rejoice in the fact that I don’t have to impress God! The pressure to be impressive is a universal crisis right now. Social media, the workplace, even church - it’s like people constantly feel the need to prove themselves. But there is something about being so secure in what God has placed inside of you, that you won’t hinder Him in moments He wants to use you due to your own pressure to perform. This security is only formed in the secret place and trust me we are all still getting there.
And lastly becoming the woman of God’s dreams means not compromising, settling or accepting anything less than His will for your life. Listen I know it’s hard! I mean even the devil tempted Jesus with some pretty enticing things. But the key is contentment. And the key to contentment is knowing what your prize truly is. And that is Jesus Christ! Jesus has to be enough, our love for him has to be what motivates us in everything we do and everything we want to be. Otherwise our desires and motives would be coming from an ill place. The Bible tells us that the heart is wicked and deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9) but it also tell us that if we delight in the Lord that He will GIVE us the desires of our hearts (Proverbs 37:4). I truly believe that when our hearts are delighted in Christ, He literally places desires in us that are aligned with His will. And once you get a taste of that, you won’t want to settle for anything lesser! Not a lesser lover, a lesser job, nor a lesser healing. And most importantly not settling for a lesser you!
You can keep up with me via
Instagram at @artyssamornay
MUA page: @MSWCosmetology YouTube: Artyssa Mornay and my blog artyssamornay.tumblr.com
Can you believe that we are at the end of March? HOW?!?! Well, I have 2 more features for Women's History month! I am still f...
OMG!!!
So, you know I try to be transparent on this here blog! Whew! So, I had a conversation with a guy recently and I totally bombed the
whole thing. I have not dated for real since being divorced. I have been
getting closer to God and focusing on my heart and my healing. I have been
concentrating on abstaining from sex, lust and other triggers I’ve experienced
in my past. I have been focused on hearing God’s voice clearer and so much more. Soooooo, back
to my story. I recently had a conversation with this guy that I think is
extremely handsome, I would go out on the limb and say I had a slight crush on
him. SMH. In that conversation I realized how awkward and ill prepared I was in this
space. It was a small part of my lesson I learned this week…. I gotta pace
myself. I have to slowww down to hear
the voice of the Lord. Yes, feeling all gooey is cool and all and that feeling
of having a crush is cute but it can be oh so shallow!! Reflecting on that
conversation made me realize how many other areas in my life could use a sober
and slower approach. I have the tendency to fantasize about what could be in
spaces like business, love, and just life! But, pacing yourself helps you live more
for the present moment and enjoying life as is without focusing on expectations.
Of course, there is a need for expectations but there are moments where we
can’t zoom in on them.
Does that make sense? Picture this: You’re eating dinner
and it’s so good that instead of chewing slowly and savoring the taste, you
miss the entire moment by focusing on
what’s on the plate and what’s for dessert.
Trying to digest moments too fast can cause you to choke!
The risks are endless…..
P A C E Y O U R S E L F !!!!
Quick couple of tips for Pacing Yourself:
1. Refrain from shallow thinking!
Level up your thinking and go deeper!!! Surface level thinking does not allow you to level up!
Level up your thinking and go deeper!!! Surface level thinking does not allow you to level up!
2. Don’t trust your emotions!
Emotions will send you clean off! Being overly emotional takes away your power to remain sober and focused.
Emotions will send you clean off! Being overly emotional takes away your power to remain sober and focused.
3. Focus
on God’s plan for YOU!
Not pacing yourself can take you outside the will of GOD! God’s timing is PERFECT.
Not pacing yourself can take you outside the will of GOD! God’s timing is PERFECT.
We must dig deeper into our why and our what. Why are you attracted to who or what you’re attracted to and what purpose does this serve you and your life’s purpose?
OMG!!! So, you know I try to be transparent on this here blog! Whew! So, I had a conversation with a guy recently an...
Life is happening so fast! 2018 has taught me more than any other year that life happens to all of us! There's no way to escape the lessons that God has for you. PERIODT! I am learning to lean in to Jesus more than ever because that's the only way I can experience peace as I experience life's ups and downs.
I feel like my blog posts lately have been a bit sad. UGH!!! But, this is my safe place to just be and share as I feel lead. I believe that as much as I share great moments, it's important to share the real. I am learning to have faith even when the vision is cloudy! I trust GOD and trust my life with HIM!
If you are reading this......no matter what it looks like keep the FAITH!!!!
Coat can be found here from Shein. I have noticed their sizing is getting more accurate which I am loving.
I am in love with these pants!
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Life is happening so fast! 2018 has taught me more than any other year that life happens to all of us! There's no way to escape the...
2018 is the year that has changed my LIFE. I can't believe it's almost over though.
I am determined to live this life I have been blessed with. I am determined to not let life's circumstances paralyze me but instead encourage me to live!
I am determined to finish 2018 crushing my goals and trusting GOD like never before.
Sweater & Boots....yes the boots are from Shein!
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2018 is the year that has changed my LIFE. I can't believe it's almost over though. I am determined to live this life I have ...
I refuse to fake it! Even though I have learned to smile through my pain, I won't fake it through life. When I feel sad, I say it. When I feel mad, I say it.
I have a strong village that I lean and depend on for prayers and support. I think it's important to have a safe place to just be. This helps me get through tough times instead of acting as if they aren't happening.
I recently had a major death in my family. I will share more about it in it's on blog post. For now, I will just say I know better days are ahead.
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I refuse to fake it! Even though I have learned to smile through my pain, I won't fake it through life. When I feel sad, I say it. ...
As I get caught up on the blog. I wanted to share some encouragement for right now.
I'm learning to embrace silence in my life.
Sometimes we can let our minds run rampant with thoughts that aren't healthy for us. Then there are other times when we are trying to counter those negative thoughts with positivity and even the Word of GOD. BUT....... I am learning how to just be still. I am learning the art of silencing my brain, if even for a moment and how helpful that can be.
Sitting still and trusting GOD for just a moment daily has proven to be a powerful and peaceful tool for me.
I'm reminded of the scripture:
Be Still and KNOW that I am GOD.
Psalm 46:10
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As I get caught up on the blog. I wanted to share some encouragement for right now. I'm learning to embrace silence in my life. ...
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 my 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 am focused on creating innovative solutions for everyday women.
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
5. Author
The possibilities are truly endless and I am trusting God with the future.
Links for clothes:
All from Shein!
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Watch from Mvmt! Use my code "totallytot15" for $15 off your purchase!
When I first started blogging, I just wanted to express myself and share my story. I get so many questions about blogging and what ...
When the sun was still shining and before the snow hit the ground I rocked this look in the fall. I love this shirtdress from Shein!
As you can see I love working with them for amazingly affordable pieces that are sure to be a hit!
Link to Dress to here! Use my code "total20" for 20% off orders over $59!
When the sun was still shining and before the snow hit the ground I rocked this look in the fall. I love this shirtdress from Shein! ...
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...
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 ...
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...
