Reflections: Life Lessons from the last Decade

Happy New Year!! This is my first official blog post of the new year and the new decade. I pray that you enjoyed your holiday season and were able to spend time with those you love. I’ve spent lots of time reflecting on life these last two months. As a result, I’ve decided to compile some of my takeaways in a new series. This week’s installment is all about Life Lessons from the last Decade.

1. Adulting is infinitely harder without Christ

Call me churchy, idc idc idc! The fact remains life would be much harder without Jesus Christ. I could eat all the gluten free, juice all the veggies, do all the pilates, say all the affirmations, buy all the crystals, burn all the sage and NOTHING would be as effective as the transformative power of salvation. Why? Because accepting Christ includes receiving the “helper” aka the Holy Spirit. The one who leads me and guides me into all truth. This means I always have access to peace, resources, healing, wisdom, & hope.

2. Apply for ALL the scholarships

I racked up so much unnecessary student loan debt in undergrad because I was ignorant about just how many scholarships were available to me. And the few scholarships my guidance counselors did suggest? I was too lazy to write the necessary essays to earn free funds. BIG mistake. In the days of old college was the place to explore, be curious, “find yourself”. Frankly, there are less expensive ways to discover your passion. If college is indeed necessary for your career, I suggest starting with a 2 yr community college first and by all means, get some FREE money!

3. FEAR is the root of Self-Sabotage

Procrastination has always been my biggest challenge. Many instructors from high school to college have said that I was an A student who would get C grades only because I procrastinated. This applied to both subjects I excelled and ones where I was failing. The fear of actually succeeding made me avoid certain work. Why? Because then I couldn’t hide that I was capable of more. Then there were subjects like chemistry where the fear of failing became a reality. I didn’t understand the material and was to stubborn to prioritize tutoring. Pride will keep you from asking for help. All of these behaviors are rooted in fear. Fear of failure AND success.

4. Growth is never Comfortable

The wisdom I’ve gained over the past 10 years is not a byproduct of time, because you can be older and not wiser, but a product of growth. The reality of life is that decisions are the building blocks of destiny. Some of the decisions I’ve made have produced good fruit, some produced bitter fruit, both produced newfound wisdom. We learn from our mistakes and then make better choices. Some things I was able to avoid all together thanks to God’s word, wise counsel, and witnessing another’s plight. The last 5 years especially were full of personal growth. They were also some of the roughest… but it was just the refining fire. The pruning of my leaves so I can bear Godly fruit. That growth may be uncomfortable because you end up in unfamiliar territory. But that’s where the magic happens!

I’m sure there are more but I wanted to leave you with these for now. Check back same time next week when I discuss love lessons! Xoxo

Top//HM , Skirt//Burlington, Boots//Go Jane , Bag//Warrior Princess Closet

Khaki Smock Dress

Franklin Fountain is a really dope ice cream shop located in Old City Philadelphia. Once you step inside you’re reminded that this is truly an old city. Offering homemade ice cream and unique soda flavors like cantaloupe and watermelon, it’s busy year round. Tourists and residents alike love this place. I decided stop in and grab something since it was 86 degrees. This was also the perfect opportunity to wear my khaki smock dress.

I was honestly hesitant about purchasing this style at first. The colors are very muted and could actually come across as dull. The boxy shape made me worried I’d be lost in a sea of tan. However, refusing to be limited I grabbed it anyway from Buffalo Exchange. It’s an H&M piece (go figure) but it’s about 5 years old so pre-monkey.

I kept things simple with ballet flats and gold jewelry. This post has actually made me realize how little conten I shoot showcasing flat shoes. I’m in flats them 90% of the time at work. I’ll be sure to fix that moving forward.

Dress//H&M , Shoes//Payless , Jewelry//Burlington Coat Factory

NYFW: Paco Rogiene Runway Show

Light rain fell and it didn’t bother me at all. I was too excited. This was the show I’d been looking forward to all week long featuring young designer Paco Rogiene. A Baltimore native who began designing as a teen, Paco has always been one to watch. Gaining popularity in the DMV, he then set his sights on New York where his collections earned him esteem from fashion icons like Naomi Campbell.

Upon arrival I was inspired just by the window – why? Because it was full of dancers practicing, after all this Show was being held at the Alvin Ailey American Dance theatre on the sixth Floor. Stepping off the elevator I could feel the energy. After check in I quickly I found my front row seat as VIP guests were being served wine.

The DJ began playing 50 Cent & Biggie as the lights dimmed. Showtime. A sea of black pieces in sheer and lace flowed my way. I was close enough to see the quality of the fabrics and tailored finishes. The men’s lace shirt with matching jacket was perfect!

Then a flow of white pieces followed. The men’s 3 quarter white shirt was a standout from this collection and the fringe pants for women was done in such a modern way I was amazed!

The Diversity of the model selection was thoroughly impressive. Backstage access allowed me to meet and greet the designer and models. Paco’s modern use of classic fabrics was refreshing & the entire show was a joy!

– K. Vaughn, Philadelphia Designer

Exclusively for Sing Pray Shop

Purple Shawl + Maroon Boots

Lately I’ve been all about jewel tones in both my fashion and makeup. Although color palate rules are no longer a “thing” anymore, I certainly still get a rush from wearing these shades in colder months.

Today’s look was entirely pieced together around this beautiful printed shawl. The deep purple color looks absolutely beautiful in the rich velvet. The sheer abstract floral pattern adds another dimension of color.

In similar fashion to my last shawl ensemble, I kept things simple by pairing it with jeans and a turtleneck. However, saw this as the perfect opportunity to wear my maroon over the knee boots.

Faux suede never looked so good, lol. Hope you’re enjoying your day loves, catch you later!

Shawl//Marshall’s , Top//Uniqlo , Jeans//H&M , Boots//Liliana


Join the village