Candy Apple Confections

This winter, my friends and I decided to have a little gift exchange. Now, I really like giving gifts. I like to think that I'm a good gift giver - for girls at least. I had already picked up a couple of things for her, but I knew that my gift for my friend wouldn't be complete without some sort of tasty little treat for her. Well, the night before I had to give her the gift (just a few days ago), I headed over to a place that I know sells really cute candies and things like that and found her...a Mrs. Prindable's caramel apple!
   If you've never heard of Mrs. Prindable's then you won't understand the significance of this statement. Mrs. Prindable's caramel apples, and all of her treats, are absolutely amazing. They're super tasty, super popular, and super gorgeous. Needless to say, my present was a HUGE hit, namely because of that caramel, chocolatey, apple! You can order Mrs. Prindable's apples and other things online at www.mrsprindables.com for almost any occasion. They even have an apple-a-month program where, for a standard fee, they'll ship you or a loved one an apple a month for six or twelve months. YUMMY!

So go ahead and check out all that Mrs. Prindable's has to offer, and treat yourself or your family and friends to these delectable handmade sweets.

Happy tasting,
Kate :)

Urban Expression

Urban Expression by PrettyKeen

A look that I created on polyvore that's funky-fresh for strolling about. The earthy gold tones showcased in this outfit look great on just about everybody. The bomber-jacket and straight leg jeans are wardrobe essentials that work well with the super-hip graphic tees, sparkly shoes, and quirkily cute jewelry. Check out the products that I used in it here.


Stay cool,
Kate :)

P.S. The shoes used in here are TOMS, which means that for every pair sold, a pair of shoes is given to a child in need. You can learn more about TOMS Shoes' "One for One" policy on their website.

"A Hazy Shade of Winter"

A great look for fall or winter featuring some of my favorite wardrobe pieces: skirts, motorcycle jackets, and suede boots. Actually, I really like all of the individual items in this look, like the silver jewelry and gray v-neck. Put these pieces together and you get an outfit that is casually cool and perfect for a day out. Throw on some black tights and you're ready to face the elements. :) Full product list here.

Smiles,
Kate

Cable Knit Bliss

It's about one week into December, and dressing season-appropriately is crucial. Of course, the most basic winter essential is the sweater. Personally, my favorite kind will always be the cozy cable knit. This preppy, classic staple has many different manifestations and pretty much comes in any color, meaning that it can go with just about anything. Most recently, cable knit has been popping up on scarves, gloves, purses and more. So this winter, invest in a couple of cable-knit products of your choice. You'll be glad that you did. 

The most basic of the cable-knit kind, the crewneck sweater looks amazing with jeans, and tall equestrian boots like these Ralph Lauren beauties. Throw a navy blue blazer on to complete the look and you're good to go!

Also, Cashmere doesn't just have to be worn...it's also a great touch on home decor and can make your pillows and throws extra cuddly. The throws by Ralph Lauren is super luxe, and he also has pillows and travel sets.

Happy Shopping!
--Kate
These are NOT my images. No copyright infringement intended. 

Merci Beaucoup!

Another Polyvore creation. :) Inspired by Marie Antoinette, this unique look features ruffly details and gold jewelry. The girly skirt is countered by the structure of the white jacket. Nude heels supply needed simplicity and lengthen the legs. Full product list here.

Making Disciples in a Modern World

Most times that people think about reaching others with the Gospel of Christ, they conjure up a mental picture of a preacher standing at a pulpit or a missionary serving others in a poverty-stricken nation. Many believe that in order to follow the Great Commission and “make disciples of all nations”, as Jesus exhorted us to do in Matthew 28:19, they must evangelize in a very traditional sense of the word. I believe differently. Knowing that “God is love,” according to 1 John 4:8, I believe that I can most effectively spread the Word of God through loving others. I also firmly believe that Christians today can utilize modern technology to their advantage in leading others to Jesus.

The beginning of 1 John 4:8 in the Amplified translation of the Bible states that “He who does not love has not become acquainted with God.” If a young person like me seeks to spread the message of Christ to others, they must first be acquainted with love, the very essence of our God. Without knowledge of love, I have no authority to try and communicate to others who Jesus is to me, because not knowing love means not knowing Jesus Himself. Those who do not know God are simply not connected to His type of love. They have never had the advantage of another human being demonstrating Jesus’ compassion to them. The absence of a revelation of God’s love has resulted in the absence of God. Jesus often speaks of love to his disciples. He tells them in John 13:35 that “all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus is informing His apostles of the fact that they can most effectively get their Message out to others if they simply love. I believe a person can lead most strongly through example. Ephesians 5:1 exhorts us to imitate and follow the example of God as children imitate and follow the examples of their earthly Fathers. We are called to live as an example of Jesus’ love and conduct ourselves in accordance with the Great Commandment. We must love each other in the same manner that they love themselves. Once Christians decide to do this, they will prove love “as strong as death (SOS 8:6)” and the life that is in Christ will empower people as it never has before.

Technology continues to present all people everywhere with opportunities to spread new ideas with incomparable speed and ease. Thankfully, when in the right hands, modern technology proves itself a blessing. New forms of communication can mean new ways to spread love to others. People can make a phone call, send an e-mail, or even instant-message or video-chat words of encouragement swiftly. However, those called to full-time ministry can also use their gifts in new ways with the help of modern inventions such as the internet. Videos of church services are constantly being streamed all across the globe, ministries are staying connected to their supporters through the likes of social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, and worship albums are now downloaded from Itunes—and I support it entirely. In Esther 4:14 in the Amplified Bible, Esther’s relative Mordecai says to her that perhaps she has “come to the kingdom for such a time as this.” I believe that my generation and the modern amenities that it has been equipped with have come into God’s kingdom at the just the right time. With the help of the internet and other new forms of communication, the gospel can be spread and impart peace to those who most need it.

As a young Christian, I believe that my Heavenly Father has placed me where I am and with the opportunities that I have in Him for a reason. I believe that people my age can take advantage of the gifts that we have been given in the forms of new devices and use them for the Glory of God. I believe that empowered by love, young men and women can go out into the world through many different mediums and show others Christ. 

---Kate

Photo Attribution: By Bill Snowe (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Should-have Staples: Wellies

All of us, from time to time are caught in this sticky situation: It's cold, wet, and rainy outside. You don't want to mess up your cute flats or heels, and sandals are definitely a no-go. You also definitely want to avoid getting your pants soaked half-way up the calf from having to navigate through puddles. So what are you to do?

Put on wellies, of course!

Wellington boots, also known as rain boots, are the perfect solution to these predicaments, and if you think that they're not stylish, think again. Case in point: Hunter Boots.

That is all. :)

So, my pretties, as you can see, it is entirely possible to look good and stay dray all at once.

Much love,
Kate

Cold as Ice

My second Polyvore posting. This one goes for a much sleeker look than the last and was originally created four months ago. It features studded rings, a gray, silky top with strongly embellished shoulders and a tie at the waist, gray booties, and slim black pants. Full product listing here.

Over and out,
Kate

Fresh As a Daisy

A Polyvore creation. Not very sure what it was inspired by, but whilst creating it I aimed for a nude color palette accented by girly and flowry details. YSL bracelet, Juicy Couture and Louis Vuitton rings featured, along with a wedding band. Full product list here. :) Hope you like!
Love,
Kate

And now for a fashion-related post...

Since I've promised myself and you (if you've read my first entry) that this blog would also be about fashion and things of the like, I thought that I might direct you to the inspiration of this blog: my Polyvore profile.
  Around nine months ago I created a Polyvore that would serve as an outlet for my need to put outfits together. If you are anything like me, I recommend starting a Polyvore, as it is a very satisfying thing indeed. And so I ask you to please check it out, because although I know that I have a bias, I personally believe that it showcases some very nice work. I've also decided to feature my Polyvore creations on my blog one by one for those of you too busy to click on the link and explore for yourselves, and mostly because I want my blog to have some pretty pictures. Enjoy.

Over and out,
Kate

Spirit.

Lao Tzu once said, "At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and what you want." This is so much more true when you put the Holy Spirit, your Helper, Comforter, and Guide into the equation. The center of our being is our spirit man, renewed by the Holy Spirit. God is calling us to look within and listen to His voice, where the answer to every question that we have is found. When we begin to live for Him, His desires become our desires, and we are able to walk in the plan that He has for our lives. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His Will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” If you put the will of God above your will and submit to Him, it will be easier for God to show you which way to go and for you to have the answer that you need waiting within yourself.

Hugs and Kisses,
Kate

P-R-I-O-R-I-T-I-E-S

In today’s world there are so many things that may contribute to stress, and finding a solution is not always easy; however, one does exist—it’s setting one’s priorities straight, with Jesus at the top of the list. If a person takes the time to really think about what is important to him or her, and makes a quality decision to act with their priorities in mind, then their lives will gain order and balance, two qualities that lead to peace. However, ultimate peace begins with an intimate relationship with Jesus. It was he that said,

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27, NIV).

If people would take this verse as it is and not allow themselves to worry or fear, and realize that God will take care of them if they place Him first, they could live a life of peace, in the hope of making life better for everybody.
Living a life of peace is simple. If people acted unselfishly, all strife would cease, and all arguments would disappear. How? Those involved in conflict would realize that their relationships are more important than being right, and they would make the conscious decision to walk in love. How much further would people be in their relationship with God and their relationships with one another if they didn’t allow such frivolous details in their lives block their love for them, hinder their walk with Him? Hebrews 12:1 tells us to,

“throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

We are unable to live out God’s ―will, “which is good and pleasing and perfect (Romans 12:2, NLT),” as long as we focus on the things that aren’t important. As a bonus, stress and worrying would alleviate themselves through increased productivity –the result of prioritizing—and the simple act one deciding not to thinks about the problems in his or her life and finding rest in his or her Savior’s arms.
I believe that thinking about the positive rather than the negative has the ability to make a big difference in a person’s life. In one of my personal experiences, I was worried about a test I had taken, and sure that I had gotten a bad grade. When I got it back, I realized that my grade was an A. I came to the understanding that all along I had been focusing on the things that I didn’t know rather than the things that I did know while taking the test, and I had allowed that to get me concerned. This stole my peace, as well as my hope for a good grade. Focusing on the negative left me feeling very stressed out, and as a result I could have been less than nice with my family and friends, damaging my relationships. If I had focused more on the positive, on the things on the test that I did know, the outcome could have been much different. I could have felt confident in my abilities and, in the hope of excelling, moved on to my other assignments more efficiently, rather than hindering myself by wasting my time worrying, because in Jesus’ own words,

“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life (Matthew 6:27)?”

I, by worrying, could not add a single ounce of productivity to my schedule or work—in fact, I took it away. Not worrying would have produced more peace in my life and added to its quality. I could have enjoyed spending time with my family and friends more, and taken time to rest and relax. I know that this situation is minimal, but if one takes a moment to consider how often this must happen in the life of the average person, he or she would realize that letting go of worry and letting go of the negative in favor of the positive has a very big impact on the average person’s quality of living.
In a world of conflict, there is only one way to gain peace and hope. We, as people, must clear our thinking, decide what is worth our time, and put God at the top of our lists. Then, and only then, will we find hope and peace in such a chaotic world.
Be blessed. Live in Him. Let His Peace reign in your hearts and realize how far you will go while resting in Jesus’ care.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.  Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7, NLT

 Love,
Kate

On a Certain Subject

Jacqueline Kennedy as a bride

   Proverbs 18:22 in the Message paraphrase says, "Find a good spouse, you find a good life--and even more: the favor of God!" This scripture is obviously true, but the thing about this translation (and I’m not saying it’s flawed) is that you really don’t ever have to and shouldn’t ever spend your time looking for a spouse. The more that you study the Word of God in its entirety on this subject, the more that you begin to realize that God has your life planned out for you and that at the right time will draw you and your mate together - by His Spirit. This is why Song of Solomon exhorts us to not stir up love before the time is right. We are to allow Him to direct our steps and guide our every decision. Psalm 139:16 says, “You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.” Every single moment of our lives has been planned by God, the Master Planner. Romans 12:2 in the New Living Translation says that the Lord’s Will for us is “good and pleasing and perfect.” Jeremiah 29:11  says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope.’ (NIV)” God has nothing but good in store for us. Proverbs 4:18 tells us that the path of the righteous “shines ever brighter.”
            Proverbs 14:12 tells us that, “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” True life is found in the Word of God. For something to be alive, it must be quickened by God and have its root in Him. The relationships in your life must be ordained by God in order for them to be full of the life of God. I remember one of my favorite preachers saying she didn't want anything if she made it - in other Words, she wanted everything in her life to come from God as a result of her obedience to Him. Think about Abraham. When Abraham was trying to have a son, he impregnated his wife's maid Hagar. That son was named Ishmael. Ishmael was born out of Abraham's earthly attempt to bring God's Word to pass. Any time we get impatient and take a situation in to our own hands and try to make things happen in our own strength, it ends up a failure. I don't know about you, but I don't want anything to be an Ishmael in my life. I want it to be an Isaac. I want it to be a result of my obedience, faith, and trust in the Lord.  I want it to be straight from God. That is why it is so important to listen to Psalm 37 verses 5 and 7 in the Amplified Bible when they say to, “Commit your way to the Lord [roll and repose each care of your load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also in Him and he will bring it to pass…Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him.” If you give your life over to God and His Will for you, you’ll never have to worry about anything. Be patient rest in Him. Follow His voice. Listen to and obey the direction of the Holy Spirit on the inside of you. Colossians 3:9-10 says that God will “give you complete knowledge of His Will and…spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit.” Listening the God’s voice on the inside of you is what will allow you to know which decisions (and the best decisions) to make. If you completely give your romantic life over to the Lord and obey Him, you can never go wrong. You’ll never have to worry if the person that you’re in a relationship with is only after you for your money, looks, reputation, last name, personal connections, or anything else. You’ll know that what you’re doing is right and the very best thing for you because you’re obeying the Voice of God, and your relationship with that person will begin to bear fruit. This is made clear in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His Will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” When you take the path that the Lord has laid out in front of you, it opens the door for him to “give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart. (Ps. 37:4, AMP).” This is why I don't believe in dating. God has so much for His children, if they'll only submit to Him. You don't need to experiment with your own choices or try to force something to work. You don't need to enter into a relationship with someone "just for fun." Protect the anointing within you. Especially teenagers and young adults: right now you are in a forming time in your life. You don't need someone to distract you from God, or badly influence who you are and whom you'll become. God is placing things within you. He is molding you and shaping you into the person whom He wants you to be.  Separate yourself unto Him, and He will prepare your for your reward. I encourage you today to listen to the voice of God and draw near to Him, because when you draw near to Him, and your desires begin to match up with His desires, you’ll be more than on your way to receiving every good gift in your life.

Much love and blessings,
Kate


Photo Attribution: By Toni Frissell (Library of Congress[1]) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Hi There.

Well, then. I've begun a blog.

A few things about this blog. The content of this blog will be somewhat vast, maybe. This blog isn't my first blog (I had a tumblr), and I plan on re-posting some of my favorite entries from my other blog into this one. I hope that through this blog I can do some fun fashiony things while still encouraging others in spirit. That's my main goal.
And so ends this excessively short post. More to come. 


Until next time, my darlings!

Love,
Kate