DIY Fun!

Good afternoon and happy July!

Today I had some extra time on my hands so I got a little crafty thanks to Pinterest and this was the result:

The first DIY I did was one I've been wanting to try for a while now. I always see my friends with their cut-off workout shirts and they look much more light and comfortable than a heavy cotton t-shirt. I had a few shirts I got from Creation Festival (awesome Christian music festival) and they were too big so I took one and grabbed the scissors! This was a super easy way to revamp my "too big tee" to a cute workout tank! I added the bow as my own little touch :) but there is no sewing necessary! Everything you need comes right off the shirt! Here is a link to the steps I used:

--> DIY workout shirt

The shorts are another story. I didn't exactly use Pinterest for these but I got some ideas from there. I have a good friend who makes her own clothes all the time so I kind of knew what to do. I knew I had a pair of old shorts I hardly ever wear so I thought I'd use them to play around with. I originally wanted to do a bleach ombre look but I went to the basement just to find out we had no bleach, haha. So I looked upon the shelf and saw pink spray paint! I gave it a shot and the above image is the result. I simply cutoff the bottoms, made some tears in the shorts, and sprayed from above (outside of course). I'm not sure about how to wash them yet, but I figured I would hand wash them first so I don't risk getting everything in the rest of the load pink, or the washing machine itself! I may just always hand wash them. Anyway, they remind me of 'merica shorts so maybe I'll sport them for the 4th!

One last note! I've been wanting a bubble necklace incredibly badly and unfortunately was having a lot of trouble finding one in stores. I was going to wait, but I caved and ordered this one from Francesca's collection for $19.20 (originally 24.00 but I had 20% off, shipping basically made up for that though...)

 

Union St. Bubble Statement Necklace in light blue

Francesca's

I can't wait to wear this! I love the colors and think it will be great for dressing outfits up or going great with casual wear as well. 

love, anjelica

Blogging for Books!

So I added this new "Books" tab because I'm an avid reader and I love a good book! So much that I joined a few websites that mail individual bloggers free books JUST for the mere reason that they will write a blog review on that book from the publishing company. I know, sounds too good to be true right? I thought so too.
Last summer I was involved on a book blogging website but then got incredibly busy so I had to stop my involvement, however now that I'm home for the summer it is prime reading time! I heard about Blogging for Books through a friend/mentor at my church who is active in leadership and got many leadership books through the websites. I am here to prove to you that this is incredibly true, it is NOT a scam, and you actually get books by authors that are popular and renowned (particularly in the Christian world). I am so excited to have started blogging for books again! Here are the links if you want to get involved as well: www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks www.booksneeze.com 

It's very easy: 
 You just create an account, have that account verified in an email from the publishers, go on the available list of books and choose one to review that is in a category of your choosing, get that book either in print or ebook form (for those of you who love kindles, nooks and the like)

 Then review the book (200 words or more) on your personal blog as well as a consumer website (such as Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, walmart.com, etc), login to the publisher website with your account then review it on there and CHOOSE ANOTHER BOOK! =) this seriously excites me!

I intend on using this "books" tab for the purposes of reviewing books from waterbrookmultnomah and book sneeze but also to review books I buy or post ideas and quotes from books that I currently am reading and loving. Boom. Have a read!
  love, anjelica

Inspiration: Caddyshack Prep

<-- Hey that's me!

To quote myself, sometimes I'm just the girl who puts sprinkles on her ice-cream because it looks cute. Yeah, that just happened. What's up?! It's been awhile but now that summer is officially here and I am just working I will be updating! So that quote embodies how I'm currently feeling style-wise. I am absolutely in love with Lilly Pulitzer and I have no idea how I did not discover her line earlier. It is so colorful, fun, and preppy! With a big splash of nautical, which is kind of my signature! Needless to say, I'm feeling INSPIRED. Since I work in a business casual environment I'm trying to branch away from black and grey office wear. What better than a little Kate Spade or J-Crew to get the creative summer juices flowing? Bright colors, big bows, stripes, and bubble necklaces! (which I have yet to get my hands on) here are some peeks into what I'm feelin' for the summer!

Dress: Wal-mart
Necklace: Gifted from +Jenna Spayd 
Sandals: Target 

Can I just say I need those Lilly mugs for my apartment next year? ...ok maybe not NEED, but seriously considering.

One last thing, those bubble necklaces dress up any outfit! Plus, they are so versatile in the way that they can mix and match a fun, cute casual outfit or a dressier one. Let me know where you have found these? Since I feel like i'm the last one on the bubble necklace bandwagon!


For more inspiration: Kate Spade, J Crew, Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines

stay encouraged on your summer grind!
love, anjelica

Summer Project 2013

So guys, last year I documented my summer via videos on a Youtube channel. That is where the name "Adventures with Anjelica" originally came from! :) I've been inspired to not only document the summer again this year, but take it one step further and go outside of myself and into the lives of other people! Here is a little blurb of my vision for doing this and how I plan to carry it out. 

Any feedback would be wonderful.

Adventures with Anjelica Channel

Would you participate in something like this? Any other ideas or tips? Let me know! 

love, Anjelica

5 Steps to Coping with Stress as a Christian

Hello! Ahh finals are right around the corner! The stress and strain of due dates, exams, and getting ready to move out of college for the summer is all coming quickly. I thought I'd post a little encouragement that gives some practical steps to easing some of that tension we feel when things get difficult. Remember God is bigger than your circumstance!

5 Steps to Coping with Stress as a Christian

#1. Release Frustration

God wants you to be real with Him. Don't try to cover up what's bothering you, be honest with Him. He is your father and He already knows what is in your heart anyway, so just tell Him! 

[Psalm 62:8] - Oh my people, trust in Him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.

#2. Resist Becoming Bitter

Did you ever hear the phrase "unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die"? That's what bitterness does to us. In the long run, it will end up hurting us more than the stressor in our life. So release it to Him, let go, and move on!

[Hebrews 12:15] - Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.

#3. Receive Help from Others (lean on them!)

It can be really tempting to isolate ourselves when we are stressed and frustrated, especially when we are at our breaking point. But this is exactly what the enemy wants us to do, so do not be deceived! These are the time when leaning on our good friends is essential. Getting around good influences and Christian friends help pick us back up. Let them be there!

[Galatians 6:2] - Share each others burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

[1 Thessalonians 5:11] - So encourage each other and build one another up, just as you are already doing.

#4. Set Focus on Christ

Don't tell your God how big your problem is, tell your problem how BIG your God is!! Remember the three R's: Read His word, Remember His goodness, and Rely on His power. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in you. 

[Philippians 3:14] -I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

#5. Refuse to give Up!

We are a resilient people with an almighty God! Getting this in perspective is mind-blowing. There is no limit to what He can do when we take Him at His word. 

[Psalm 31:24] - Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!

So as the month of April is coming to an end and summer is knocking at your door. Remember these principles and keep your eyes above the waves. He is your anchor and support. Stress is no match for our Heavenly Father!

-love, Anjelica

Post Vacation-Wear & Update

Hey everyone!
So I know I'm extremely late and it's been a few days but it was pretty chaotic between packing up on Sunday, getting the flight back, driving back to school, and getting settled. Not to mention I delayed my entire flight (full plane might I add!) because I left my laptop in the car before getting on the plane. Needless to say, after a minor freakout in security, a hop skip and a jump from the flight attendant, and my grandmother crazily running through the airport - I was armed with Macbook in hand. :) It was quite eventful. Yup, that happened.

It also just goes to show how much God cares about the details of our lives. Each time I return from breaks, I come back to school refreshed and somewhat exhausted. As I walked through the halls of my lovely building, I thought about how blessed I am to attend a private Christian college where the majority of the people around me are building me up, I have support from friends and my awesome staff, and an education that seeks to glorify God! I love being a part of the community around me and hearing peoples stories, so I cannot wait to dive in to my job as a Resident Assistant next year. Tonight marks my first official 2013-2014 RA event: a simple dinner to get to know the new staffs. I will most likely blog about that by itself in my "RA" section because I want to closely follow every detail of that journey on its own ;). Be on the lookout if that interests you!

Anyway, coming back from Florida I OBVIOUSLY had to show off my tan, so I had on a turquoise v-neck that I quickly changed to white. Unfortunately, the sunshine did not follow me home to western PA, so with the bipolar weather I had to rock a cardigan for the evening. I also decided to wear a scarf that I've had since 8th grade around my head. It ended up looking really cute and the belt and shoes I wore brought out the brown in the headscarf. I found it funny that one of my guy friends referenced my outfit as looking "fashion hippie" one time, multiple times. Not exactly sure what thats supposed to mean, but if it's a compliment then i'll take it! :p
(Sorry for the dim lighting and shadowing, these were taken quickly in my friend Jenna's apartment) Wearable.Fun.Fashion

 

Top: Kohls
Cami: Aeropostale
Caridgan: Old Navy (gifted)
Jeans: American Eagle Outfitters
Belt: American Eagle Outfitters
Headscarf: Coach
Shoes: Minnetonka Moccasins

Something thats kind of a signature look of mine is multiple layered bracelets. I'm guilty of wearing at least seven at a time between both wrists. I think it pulls a look together nicely but still gives it an edge.

-love, anjelica

Thrifty Thursday!

Hello! So yesterday and today have been very busy, but I had a chance to go thrifting! I have a new appreciation for thrift shopping... I never used to be very "thrifty" but over the past year I've been awakened to all of the great opportunities of finding good deals and making amazing outfits out of things I wouldn't normally pick up. The first store I went to was called The Clothes Mentor - kind of like an upscale Plato's closet. There were many bags and accessories taunting me all around and I had to practice some self-discipline ;) however, I came out of there with 3 new shirts and a Coach wristlet. The wristlet was $18 which isn't exactly the cheapest, but for Coach it was a bargain! Also, I figured the black and white leather could go with anything and I could use it all the time for my school ID and phone (which I constantly carry with me). All in all, it was a successful trip!

What I wore yesterday was casual and included some new garments from my AE splurge! For some reason I have been so in the mood to buy the color green. I don't know why, I have just picked up everything that's green! I've heard multiple people say to me that they think it's the color of the year... so we'll see if that's really true.

Top: American Eagle Outfitters

Cami: Aeropostale

Skinny Jeans: American Eagle Outfitters

Scarf: American Eagle Outfitters

Shoes: TOMS (got them at a boutique in SC)

So I'm LOVING these skinnies from AE, they're called eye cat and they have the effect of a tribal print.  I'm learning how well they go with everything, they were a bit bold but a must-add to my wardrobe!

My thrifty finds:

Top: J-Crew (Clothes Mentor, $12)

Tank: The LOFT (Clothes Mentor, $6)

Top: The LOFT (Clothes Mentor, $8)

Coach Wristlet (Clothes Mentor, $18- originally $65)

Vera Bradley "Make Me Blush" pattern (Gifted)

I love Vera patterns, but I've never actually owned one that's a bag. I figured it will be cute to use in the summer! If you have any good ways to wear the Vera, let me know! I'll have to play with it and figure out how to rock it ;)

-love anjelica

Nautical Nonsense!

Yay, my 3rd day blogging! Just wanted to rejoice for being consistent :)
Today was another beautiful day and I had the opportunity to enter Greek community Tarpon Springs, FL! It was very cool to enter into a different culture than I'm used to and experience the Greek food, shopping, and people. Opa! We visited the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks on a boat tour and learned the history of the Docks and how that area has been the prime sponge provider of Florida and other areas for years! On our way out to the island we saw a family of dolphins surfing on the small, rolling waves and once we arrived we had time to walk around and collect shells. Since I knew we were going boating and shopping, I figured a cute and lightweight nautical outfit would be appropriate:

Disclaimer: Pleaseee ignore my awful v-neck sunburn! Seems the sun here is a bit stronger, don't be alarmed! I made sure to use some sunblock today. Crisis diverted!

Top: American Eagle Outfitters

Chambray: American Eagle Outfitters

Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Sandals: American Eagle Outfitters

Cross body bag: Target

(I swear I shop at other places besides AE! Just happened to splurge there before I left!)

 It always amazes me to see how vast the clear, blue water is and how it seems unending. I think water is such an amazing part of God's creation and I couldn't help but be reminded of the scripture in Matthew 8:27 "The disciples were amazed. Who is this man? they asked. Even the winds and waves obey him!" The ocean is such a large and powerful body of water and thinking about the height waves can reach amazes me; but what amazes me even more is thinking about an even bigger, more powerful, and unconditionally loving God who reigns. God desires for us to come to Him and He is revealing Himself all around, if we will just be willing to notice. I think that the ocean reflects so many characteristics of God: peace, beauty, power, strength, and the list goes on and on. It's not too often that I get to appreciate the vastness of God's oceans... so it's nice to reflect on what I saw :)I made a friend on the island :) I know, I'm such a dork! I love critters.

Anywho, I hope you all had a wonderful Tuesday...? Being on vacation always makes me lose track of the days! Thanks for being so supportive (if you're reading this blog) and bearing with me as I'm on the front end of this whole blogging thing ;) Just another day on my journey...
Stay encouraged!

-love, anjelica

Goodbye Pittsburgh, Hello Sunshine State!

Here comes the sun!
So after much anxiety about flying out of Pittsburgh- I was super nervous to fly- I have arrived in sunny Florida, and I couldn't be more excited! It's only day #1 and I've already walked along the gulf, put my TOMS in the sand, and laid poolside while watching palm trees blow in the wind. I'm looking forward to taking spring break as a time to rest and rejuvenate from the chaotic college life. I think it's easy to get so caught up in the busyness of life that I forget what it truly means to rest. It is a major blessing being here at my grandmas and being able experience her lifestyle for 8 days. With so much to do in so little time it's bound to be an exhilarating break! And I fully intent on blogging throughout it... I'm realizing how casual Florida is, so my outfit today reflected that. I didn't go anywhere public really, so I just threw on a tank and shorts to hangout by the pool.

Tank: H&M

Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Sunglasses: CVS (because I forgot mine!)

This week I get two things that I love: horses & nautical (boats, anchors, beach).
If there is one thing I'm passionate about, it's horses. I've ridden horses since I was little, and I am still obsessed. That is why I am ABSOLUTELY THRILLED that I get to attend the Tampa Bay Downs horse races on Wednesday! This was a surprise from my grandma and her diva friend ;) I can't wait to put a cute little outfit together and go off to the races! Do you girls have any ideas on what to wear to the track? Let me know, sometimes I can use a little creativity! Catch you tomorrow, stay encouraged!

-love, anjelica

About Me!

Anjelica Rose :)

I'm 20 years old, college student studying Human Services & Psychology, RA, lover of fashion, horseback riding, singing, and all things nautical! Most importantly I'm a lover of Jesus Christ, living out my faith and actively serving with all my heart. Here on this blog you'll find different stories, experiences, and thoughts from my journey. I am training to be a Resident Assistant at school so there will be many stories/ideas to come! Also personal style and beauty stuff, as well as just a place for me to pour out my thoughts. Follow me and be encouraged today!

A little more detail...

So I'm the type of girl who loves being with my friends, meeting up for coffee, and talking about life. I attend a private college in Western Pennsylvania where I live. I am pursuing a degree in Human Services, then I plan on attending grad school for Counseling. Life is a crazy journey and throughout everything, God has been my rock. I live to honor and glorify Him in everything I do. I LOVE hearing peoples stories, where they've been, and what they are passionate about. Some of my passions...

-horseback riding (for 8 years I've been in the saddle, there's nothing like riding free)

-singing (i sing everywhere from in the shower to my church for worship, music=love)

-reading (get ready to hear blurbs from books i'm reading, things i'm learning, etc.)

-quality time (i enjoy surrounding myself with people i love and making memories)

-social media (hit me up on Twitter: @jelli_x3 Instagram: afarino)

That's just a little bit more about me :) you'll learn more as you join me in my journey... and I would love to join yours as well!