I'm not gunna lie - Fathers day is hard for me. My father passed when I was eleven years old, and I don't think there will ever be a moment when I don't miss him. I figured I would share a little bit of my story, in case there are any others out there who have gone through a similar experience... I am 25 years old. And at this point in my life, I have spent more time without my dad than I did with him...which is a hard thought in itself. Growing up without a father has been a struggle in more ways than one. When my father passed, my little 11 year old self was so afraid that there would be no one left in the world to protect her. But I know now, that there is no reason to fear! Today, I am humbled and brought to tears by the abounding love of GOD who so graciously took me in his arms and continues to show me just how precious I am in His eyes. I am, have always been, and will always be His daughter. He has taught me the true meaning of love, and how to love myself. He has taught me the beauty of being exactly who He created me to be, and not diminishing myself. He has held me in my hardest and darkest moments, and also made me to shine brighter than the sun. He has provided for me financially time and time again, and given me opportunities that are just plain amazing! He has placed influential father figures in my life to provide me with sound wisdom and judgement. Something I am eternally grateful for. He is truly the best Father and dearest friend that a lonely and afraid 11 year old girl could have ever asked for that day on her bedroom floor. And, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." Also by God's grace, I was raised by a very loving mother. She taught me everything I know about being strong, caring, independent and limitless! I love my mother more and more everyday, and recognize her for the blessing that she has been in my life and the lives of so many others. For all those reading this whose fathers have passed or are not present - be encouraged! God is so real, and so wanting to take care of you and make you whole again! I can tell you some crazy stories about how God has showed up in my life and the healing that has come. He is my protector and provider, and He is there for you too! Just waiting for you to call on Him! Truth be told, there are still a number of things that continue to reveal themselves in my personal life and in my relationships from not having an earthly father. Working through those things will take time, and a healthy dose of patience and prayer. I am not sure what else to write, except to express just how much I miss my father, just how much I love my mother, and just how grateful I am that the Lord holds me so closely to His heart. That is just a little snippet of my story. I am happy to share more of it with you! If you are interested in receiving blog updates, subscribe to my email list (located in the sidebar). With Love, Anastasia Rose Let's face it, deciding what clothes to pack for vacation is not easy. On one hand, no one likes overpacking and toting a bunch of heavy luggage through the airport. On the other hand, no one likes limiting their wardrobe and leaving out items they love to wear.
What if I told you that you don't have to choose? That there is a way to pack lightly AND pack clothes that you absolutely love?! WELL IT'S TRUE! For a full two week stay in Trinidad and Tobago, I packed one carry-on item and one personal item. Keep reading and I will teach you exactly how I did it! I have more of a classic style. I love wearing neutral tones (black, white, beige, denim and grey) with gold accent jewelry. Before my trip to Trinidad & Tobago, I was convinced that packing lightly meant compromising my personal style - but it doesn't mean that at all! Before my trip, I decided to be very intentional about packing lightly and bringing outfits that were both comfortable and true to my personal style. I tried not to overcomplicate the situation by sifting through every piece of clothing I owned. Instead, I broke the process down into four simple steps! Good Morning Friends, What a lovely morning it has been! I am so thankful for this beautiful life God has given to us. It is truly a good and perfect gift. This morning, while enjoying my simple & delicious breakfast, the Holy Spirit whispered this verse to me...
Today, I am gracefully reminded and comforted by Gods love for me. For us! He holds each of our precious delicate souls in His mighty hands. What beautiful imagery. That the God of the universe holds us so dear and loves us so much. I encourage you to meditate on that truth this morning. God is holding you today. And everyday. Love, Ana(Stasia) Rose What to do when your BFF sends you a hilarious YouTube video...TO THE BLOG IT GOES! I seriously hope it makes you laugh as hard as I did <3 A watch can say so much about your personal style. It is one of those essential pieces everyone should own. And since you will most likely end up wearing a watch everyday, it is important to choose one that can be worn with almost any outfit. Once you have built your team of "staple watches" then you can expand your collection!
My Michael Kors watch is just that - a staple piece that I wear almost everyday. I love the large round face and the classic simplicity of it. It is on the heavier side for a ladies watch, but I enjoy that as well. Accessories don't determine who you are, but they can absolutely be used to communicate your personality to others. Just like my watch, I enjoy being very simple and classic in my style overall. I don't wear bright colors often and love love love neutral tones! Now I know quality watches can be expensive, but they are a solid investment and (if taken care of) can last for many years. I have purchased a number of quality watches from stores like TjMaxx, both for myself and as gifts for others. There is no longer a need to buy anything from a physical store nowadays. Search online at sites like eBay and Amazon for great deals! Lastly, ask for a watch as a gift. Especially if you are just graduating and want to be prepared for the professional world ahead. This Gold MK watch was a gift, and like I said - it is one of my absolute favorite accessories! Do you have an accessory that you wear almost everyday? Leave a comment and share! If you have not already, subscribe to the blog and be included on updates and other fun shenanigans. Happy Shopping, Ana(Stasia) Rose |