Musings: On Being Unworthy

As much as I'd like to be perfect, I have some glaring weaknesses, weaknesses that I know and recognize. Then came this assignment. A partner gives a survey about your leadership to friends and family, current and past coworkers. And they analyze the results for you. Let me tell you, seeing all those people see the bad you already see in yourself is rough. As a person who takes everything personally, I was a little very upset. I had a long back to my dorm to sort through my feelings. Here's what it came down to: I overvalue the opinions of others. I find my identity based on what is right or wrong about me based on my perception of others opinions. There are a million things wrong with that. My identity is in Christ and He says, "Taylor, you're unworthy but you're mine now." So I'm going to work on my weaknesses, not because I need to be better perceived, but because I know I'm loved unconditionally. Thanks, Jesus! (And thanks Emily Ley for that sweet reminder).

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Taylor

Getting There: 8 Habits of Bold Women

Bold is beautiful. I had the opportunity to write this article on the 8 Habits of Bold Women for the Flairist and I found myself being really challenged. Boldness takes work, especially boldness in your faith. Give the article a read if you get the chance and tell me your own tips for living boldly.

Prom, one of my bolder fashion moments

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Taylor

High Five for Friday: Otoño

Fall came in full stride these week. I'm starting to get chilly when I'm walking around at night. The sun sets extremely early. And somehow Halloween is next week?

1. FashionABLE turned three this week and they're giving 30 percent off of everything! I happen to know that my parents picked up the Tigist clutch that I wanted for my birthday. I've been in love with leather lately.

2. Vanderbilt beat Georgia last weekend which is amazing feat on its own. But the kicker (no pun intended) happened when our kicker, Carey Spear made a touchdown with a field goal fake out play!

3. I love this quote and design by Kendra at Piece of Cake Peace of Mind. 

4.  This song, Little Wildflower by Andrew Simple. "Just breathe and wait, my love. It's been a long, long day, so  lay your soul down."

5. In case you missed my post about Oliberté, I wanted to remind you that all of my readers get 10% off with the code: OLIFW1310. Join them in creating sustainable change in Ethiopia!

Got any weekend plans? Tell me all about them!

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Taylor

Movers: Oliberté- Made in Africa

The Shasha, my feet died and went to heaven

Happy feet.

I love conscious consumerism. I love the idea that the products I buy can be part of a beautiful, empowering story. And that is exactly why I fell hard for Oliberté Shoes, the makers of the world's first fair trade footwear. Their partners in Ethiopia hand craft amazingly comfortable leather shoes and also leather goods like wallets and bags. 

What drew me most to Oliberté was the story element of their website. Every page is full of stories and it drew me in. Of course, there is the story of Oliberté. But there is also Ambassadors, which features stories of people with a passion for Africa. And Mozaqa, acoustic sessions and written interviews with up and coming musicians. Then there is Sportanya, stories about African athletes. I left the website with the distinct feeling that Oliberté was more than a do-gooder organization, they were friends inviting me into a story with them.

With quality products and such an engaging strategy, I believe Oliberté  will blossom into something beautiful. Check out their website and get lost for a while. And while you're there, enjoy 10% off of your purchase with this code: OLIFW1310.

I'd love to hear your favorite items.

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Taylor

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY to fashionABLE!

FashionABLE is one of my favorite Nashville based non-profits. The premise is pretty simple, scarves are made by women in Ethiopia and sold here in the United States. Through fashionABLE, these women find dignity and pride. In honor of their 3rd birthday, fashionABLE is giving 30% off on all their products until October 25th! 

FashionABLE is also asking you lovely ladies, "what moment or event in my job has given me the most dignity or pride?" Think about it and leave me a comment! These scarves and leather goods are giving women the same pride you feel when you get that amazing grade or outstanding evaluation. Let's be women who empower one another.

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Taylor

Getting There: 3 Steps to Effective Planning

My beloved planner and pink pen

If you've read this blog for any length of time, you know that I'm a planner! I wrote this article for The Flairist about finding that elusive balance between dreaming and planning. Give it a read and enjoy your Tuesday.

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Taylor