Graduate Blues: Living in Limbo

      It's literally been a year since I've posted, so who knows if anyone will read this. About a month has gone by since I've graduated with my 4-year business degree. The typical questions I've had since graduating are along the lines of  "So what are your plans?" or "Are you going to grad school?" or my favorite, "Have you found a job yet?" *cringes* I know these questions are inevitable, but it becomes frustrating because I don't have a definite answer to these questions. At some points I felt self-concise/ashamed because I didn't have it all figured out.
   
     To be completely honest, I wasn't excited about graduating last month. It's not to say that I'm ungrateful, because I'm very thankful that God blessed me to graduate on time. It was more so an uneasiness about the future. My assumptions would be that I'd have job offers lined up and I'd find my "dream" job. Well that most definitely did not happen and I felt extremely discouraged. Day after day I search for jobs that will remotely attract my interest. Most of my results are typically "sales associate", "sales rep" or "call center". Sure there are plenty of positions available but I don't want to settle anymore. Every job that I've had (retail), I was never completely happy with. During college I was a campus brand rep for PINK by Victoria Secret and I never would have expected to love it as much as I did. It combined what I loved; fashion, working with a creative team, and sparked my interest in event planning. Ideally, this would be my dream job; marketing, fashion, and event planning.

    Not only has it been a struggle (it's real ya'll) to find a job, I'm also deciding whether or not to purse an MBA degree. My parents and pretty much every "adult" I talk to encourage me to go. Yes, a master's degree potentially leads to a higher chance of a prestigious career, but at the same time I have to wonder if the same boring jobs are going to be offered to me. A part of me is cringing at the thought of going back to school and writing more papers (lawd). Another part of me wants to go, just to buy more time before finding a job. Then again, a lot of grad schools look for professional work experience, so I'm right back where I started.

    Despite my state of limbo (I guess that's what it could be called), I know that God causes all things to work together for my good because I love Him and I'm called for His purpose. While I wait in this season, I'm learning a few things:

1. Stay Positive
   When life doesn't go the way you plan, its easy to become discouraged and go to a negative place. I was definitely there for a while, doubting myself and essentially doubting God. Part of the battle is in our minds and we can't let the enemy take host in our minds bringing in negativity. Everyday I try to focus on the positives in my life and thank God for what He's already blessed me with.
P.S. I've also found it helpful to post sticky notes of encouraging scriptures all around my room in places where I'm bound to look.

2. Trust God
    I've come to realize that I am a control freak I have everything planned out the way I feel it should go. Truth be told, I may think I'm in control but honestly God has His own agenda for my life. It may seem that God's moving slow or not giving us what we want, but whatever He's got up His sleeve is far greater than what our earthly minds can think of. It's less stressful and exhausting when you just trust God and let Him do all the heavy lifting.

3. Stay active
    Although we have given God complete control and trusted Him, this does not give us permission to sit on our bums. We hear all too often "faith without works is dead"(James 2:17) and its absolutely true. We can't expect God to help up us reach our goals if we're not showing Him that we really want it. What's the point of having a dream if you don't work to make it a reality? It's really easy to let your lazy bone set in, and I'm a witness, but we have to show God that He can trust us with His blessings.

For my active routine, I'm going to:
 1. continue looking for jobs/networking
 2. work for my parents to learn all I can about running a business
 3. take quiet walks in the park (hopefully lead to full workouts lol)
 4. research to develop my own brand
 5. daily bible studies
 6. continue helping my church to the best of my ability

I just believe that if we continue to stay positive and fully trust and honor God, He will give us the desires of our heart.

Scriptures that are encouraging me

Romans 8:25 NLT 

" But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently."

Romans 8:28 NLT
"28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Romans 8:37-39 NLT

"37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

-Xoxo Deleon

A Trip to New York City

 Hi everyone! If you didn't know, I am a VS PINK Campus Rep and earlier this month I had the opportunity to travel to New York City with my co-rep and friend. Keep scrolling to see my vlog and all the fun things we got into. Hope you enjoy!

Devotional

Matthew 6:31-34 NLT

31" “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today."

As graduation becomes more of a reality, I tend to think a lot about my future and what type of job I'll have and if I'll actually enjoy it. Its very easy to get wrapped up in your own thoughts and worry about "what's next". This scripture is a reminder that God has everything under control because He knows exactly what we need and our desires. We should find peace knowing that God cares for us and He would never steer us wrong. If we focus on God more than life's worries, He will handle the rest. Live for today rather than stressing about what's next.

Stay Chic!
-Xoxo Deleon

Traveling in PINK:VLOG

     Happy Friday everyone! For today's post I decided to switch it up a bit and share a vlog with you all. I recently became a sponsored campus brand rep for VS PINK and had the opportunity to travel to Columbus, Ohio for brand certification. There was so much excitement packed into three days and having my friend there made it all the more fun. I'm looking forward to a great year with PINK and I hope you all enjoy the video!

P.S. This was my first time vlogging so I was a little nervous lol

Devotional

Psalm 23 NLT

1 The Lord is my shepherd;I have all that I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength.He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley,I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. 5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.You honor me by anointing my head with oil.My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Stay Chic!
-Xoxo Deleon

#FBF 21st Birthday

Happy Friday everyone! Today I wanted to share a throwback from my 21st birthday back in February. I chose to celebrate the big "2-1" alcohol free. Some people might find it strange but as I get closer to God the desire isn't there. My only regret is not hitting up all those food spots to get free birthday perks. It was a great day nevertheless spent with family, pampering, and yummy food of course! I always find myself at the Cheesecake Factory for my birthday. Definitely try the red velvet cheesecake (so good!). Also, shout out to my dad for taking my birthday photos early that morning (well early for us). :)

~Outfit Details~

Top- DIY iron on letters

Tulle Skirt- Charlotte Russe

Strappy Sandals- Ross

Necklace- Forever 21

Lip Color- MAC "Living Legend"

Devotional Corner

Spread the Love

Philippians 2:1-8 NLT

 1.Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2. Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 6. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7. Instead, he gave up his divine; privileges he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.When he appeared in human form, 8. he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

A lot of times we can be so focused on our goals that we forget about others. Take time out to engage with others and encourage them to reach their goals as well as your own. It's always a blessing to be able to help others. God wants us to remain humble and respectful to others. Our success is because of Him giving us the abilities; it's not by our own doing. Instead of bragging, let's build each other up. The life of Jesus is the example of selflessness and obedience to God that we should follow.

Stay Chic!
- Xoxo Deleon

Look Who's Back

  Hi there remember me? It's been such a long time since I last posted. Just to update you guys, I've been busy finishing up my junior year, campus promoting for PINK by Victoria Secret, and I got a summer job. My goal is to save up to study abroad before I graduate. Traveling abroad is something I would love to do but just haven't had the opportunity until now. My next goal is to post more frequently on my blog because I want it to encourage someone else. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog and I pray it inspires you!

~Outfit Details~

Top- Forever 21
Jeans- Old Navy
Sandals- Nordstrom
Necklace- Forever 21

Devotional Corner
No Grey
Romans 12:1-2 NLT  

1."And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."

God isn't expecting us to be perfect people and He knows we won't get it right all the time. That's why we are supposed to continue are walk with Him so that He can show us the right way to live. He's asking that we give our whole selves completely to Him. We may live in the world but we don't have to be like it. Set your sights on things eternal. If we're going to church "religiously" but still living the same lives before we found Christ, then we haven't really been transformed. We need to have a made up mind to follow God and not the world. When we allow God to guide us, our hearts will change and He will reveal His perfect plan for us.

Stay Chic!
-Xoxo Deleon

First Week Complete

Happy Friday everyone! We made it through the first week of 2016. So far the year is treating me well and I'm remaining optimistic. In other news this week, the temperature is finally dropping in Florida. For me 60° + strong winds and rain = freezing. I love layering up just in case it gets warmer later in the day. Leather jackets are my go-to in the winter because they go with anything and you can dress it up or down.

~ Outfit Details ~

Moto Jacket- Forever 21

Sweatshirt- H&M

Jeans- Old Navy

Scarf- H&M

Nike Roshe One- Lady Foot Locker

Bag- H&M

Devotional Corner

"He is faithful"

Matthew 26:39-41 NLT

39 "He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying,'My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.'40 Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter,'Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? 41 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!' "

Before Jesus was betrayed, He prayed to God several times because He knew crucifixion was approaching. He couldn't confide in His friends and share thoughts because they couldn't even stay awake for an hour. When no one is around or too busy, God is there. No one can understand better than God, He's known us from the very beginning. He knows the exact amount of hair on our heads (Matthew 10:30). Struggles come and that's apart of life, but with God that burden is light. It very well could be a test of your faith in Him. Never feel hesitant to ask for God's help. He's our father and cares for us more than anything. 

Stay Chic!

-Xoxo Deleon

Have A Happy New Year!

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a Merry Christmas. I can't believe we've reached the end of 2015. It's been an overall good year for me. It wasn't all smooth sailing, but I'm blessed to have seen another year and look forward to what 2016 has in store for me.

~Outfit Details~
Top- Ross
Jeans-Marshall's
Heels-Ross
Bracelets-H&M
Bag-H&M
Key-chain- DIY (see previous post)

Devotional Corner
"#Goals"
Revelation 21:21,23,27 NLT

21.The twelve gates were made of pearls--each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. 23.And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. 27.Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty--but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life.

Each year, most of us set goals for the new year and try to stick to them. I'm one of those people that sets a goal and completely forgets about it by March. However I will never forget my ultimate life goal and that's keeping my reservations in Heaven. I'm not in a rush to get up there, but can you picture how beautiful this place is? God created it all for us with love and care. Pain, struggles, darkness etc., none of it exists in Heaven. The bible provides all the guidelines for us to earn our ticket to Heaven. It's is ours for the taking but we must do our part on Earth as faithful servants to God.

Happy New Year & Stay Chic!
-Xoxo Deleon

DIY Last Minute Gift Idea

  

Christmas is almost here guys! I hope you've wrapped up all those gifts. If you're one of those last minute people like me, I have a solution. Fur key chains have definitely been on trend in 2015 fashion. They're such a chic way to add some pizazz to an overall look. I had a hard time finding one in stores and I'm too impatient to wait for shipping. While surfing youtube I came across a few DIY fur key chain tutorials and thought I'd share what I've learned.This DIY  project is a quick and thoughtful gift to add to any fashionista's style.

    

      *Don't forget the scissors*

1. Using the circular object, trace a circle on the back of your craft fur.

2. Cut out your circle

*Warning your work-area will get furry*

3. Thread your needle (I used about 13 inches of thread)  and stitch all the way around the circle staying close to the edge. Remember not to tug on the thread when you're sewing because we don't want it to tighten. Once you've made it around, keep your extra thread attached to the needle.

4. Pull on the extra thread until the edges of your fur start to fold in. Next, put some cotton balls inside your cocoon.

          5. Continue pulling on your thread until the cotton is no longer visible.

6. "Thread" the extra thread through the key ring.

7.  Congrats you made it to the last step! Now that your key chain is threaded, pierce the needle through the fur. Continue looping the thread through the ring as much as you prefer so the key chain is securely attached. (Pulling the thread tightly) Once you're satisfied, cut the excess thread and tie a knot.

SN: I used white thread so I could see better when sewing, but the fur hide my stitch work. Use black thread for a more seamless look when gifting it to someone.

¡ Finito !

~Outfit Details~
T-Shirt- Forever 21
Jeans- Marshall's
Necklace- Forever 21
Fedora- Forever 21
Bag- Coach

Devotional Corner
'Tis the season
John 3:16 NLT

16 "For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life."

It's a blessing to be able to give to others. The greatest one of all was God's gift to us. What's so awesome about this gift is that anyone and everyone can have it. This gift doesn't cost anything because it's already been paid for on calvary. All we have to do is accept it. How easy is that! Let's not forget that Jesus is the best gift that we could ever receive.

Merry Christmas & stay chic!
-Xoxo Deleon

A Break from School

Hi everyone! It's been a while since you've heard from me. Fall semester has kept me quite busy and I haven't found time to post as frequently. My goal for spring semester is to manage my time better so I can post more. Now that finals are over I can relax and get some free time!

~Outfit details~
Top- Forever 21
Jeans- H&M
Booties- Ross
Earrings- Local Boutique


Devotional Corners
John 8:13-16 NLT

13 "The Pharisees replied, 'You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.'14 Jesus told them,"These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going,but you don't know this about me.15 You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone. 16 And if I did, my judgement would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me."

We all know the story of Jesus born in Bethlehem sent by God to save the world. His purpose was to spread the Good News. Jesus had the best intentions for us, but even He had to face naysayers. Jesus continued His journey against all the negativity. People may doubt or criticize you but remember God is the only one we are here to please.God has a purpose for all of our lives and we can't let others stand in the way of fulfilling that purpose.

Stay Chic!
-Xoxo Deleon