Pretty in Peplum

Happy Friday! How awesome to have a three day weekend after being off for two days due to flooding from Hurricane Issac?! Yep, it’s pretty fantastic. I have plans to go to the beach one day since I didn’t go much this summer. I’ve survived two weeks back at work and I can tell you that this year seems like it will be much better in terms of the students. The adults aren’t worth any additional mentions in my blogposts so I’ll strive diligently to refrain from sharing those memorable working with adult moments.

Like most of you I’m a peplum fan. My first peplum was this thrifted dress posted here. Since that day I’ve picked up tops at various locations. This one was $13 at Marshalls. Initially, I felt the collar made it seem youthful but after seeing this post by Leslie that notion was tossed from my style file.

 Sunnies: Thrifted

Top: Marshall

Jeans: NY & Co

Shoes: Aldo

Handbag: Michael Kors

Did you notice I forgot to wear earrings? I didn’t realize it until I arrived at work and a co-worker asked me where my earrings where. Booo L All school year I kept studs in my purse but took them out this summer. Guess what will be going back into my wallet?

I don’t talk about my hair much here but the braided updo came down after I took these photos. If you follow me on Instagram I posted two pictures. I can’t believe how much my hair has grown in 9 months. I’m excited. Downside for me is that I have very very very VERY thick hair and I’m tender headed. The plan is to give the hair a rest for a week and then have it styled again.

Here’s to an outstanding Memorial Day weekend. I’d also like to send a special thanks to the many many bloggers who are a part of the Bloggers Like Me (BLM) Facebook group. I appreciate your visiting, RTing my posts, commenting and support and love. Who knew there were so many beautiful sisters blogging like me. I’m glad I’m a part of the BLM world.

IS ANYONE ELSE IN LOVE WITH THIS SONG?

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Fresh Start

Happy Hump Day folks! Thanks to those who reached out to check on the man child and I after the rainy weather from Hurricane Isaac. We are well. Today was a typical South Florida day. Humid. Sunny. Heat stroke hot. And I’m NOT complaining after being off for two days but stuck inside. KT and I made the best of it but my fridge is now empty and I don’t think he’ll play me in Scrabble again soon.

What better way to restart the school year than with some yellow. I thrifted these pants before the last school year and never got around to wearing them. I was standing on my duty post this morning reading Harper’s Bazaar Editor’s Letter and laughed when I read that some of the styles in included would be a mixture of trends into one cohesive look. I thought, “I did this on a budget!” and then gave myself a high 5. NO shame here J

Top: Very Old from TargetPants: ThriftedShoes: Old from Bakers 

In addition to feeling and being dressed all warm and fuzzy, I was eager to get home today and share a devotional from last Thursday titled A MEMO FROM HEAVEN. Here are a few lines that touched that place in me that’s still hurting but being to slowly heal:

“Don’t just pretend that you love others: really love them.

Hate what is wrong.

Stand on the side of good.

Be glad for all God is planning for you.

Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always.

If someone mistreats you..pray that God will bless him.

When others are happy, be happy with them.

If they are sad, share their sorrow.

Don’t try to act big.

Don’t try to get into the good graces of important people,

but enjoy the company of ordinary folks.

And don’t think you know it all!

Never pay back evil for evil.

Never avenge yourselves."

Simply put: conquer evil by doing good.  

I’m working on this. #justbeinghonest

I used my tripod again. I did good capturing a full body shot but realized after I begin a quick edit that I was in too much sunlight. More practice to come. Any feedback is welcome so I can post better photos. You know the ones my son was taking. I just might have to pay this kid O.O!!

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Leopard Spots Spotted

Happy Sunday! I pray those of you who are living in areas near Hurricane Isaac are safe. This rain hasn’t let up but it didn’t keep me home from church. Pastor Whitney stated as he opened the service this morning that we (the congregation) made a powerful statement by attending worship service even though it was storming outside. We praise God during the storm. Truth.net!

I must admit I haven’t been doing a good job of praising while I go through these dreary days. I won’t call them dark because I am beginning to laugh. So that word was for me to take notice. I’m usually the one encouraging and praying for others but my Granny’s death left me lost. I’ve spent many days wondering why my prayers weren’t heard for her recovery and healing. This is where I am in trying to accept that she is no longer with me, with us.

I believe that I’ll get to a place of peace and I’m ok with not rushing it. There are good and bad days. One thing I remember about her as I go through these days is her dedication to always looking nice despite what was going on in your personal life. Granny had 14 kids and I know caring for them wasn’t easy daily. Growing up I never saw her neglect her appearance. That is certainly in my blood.

Earrings: Thrifted

Dress: Thrifted

Clutch: Marshalls

Watch: Fossil via Macy’s

Shoes: Zara

Photographer: KT

I found this dress during one of my thrifting stops before hitting the beach days. I was looking for more animal print. I was actually hoping for a maxi skirt but for $10 and no tax this wrap dress was a must. This is one of my best thrifted finds. I can see It paired with a black blazer and patent leather Steve Madden platform heels for a date night if I was actually dating someone. HINT, HINT!

Funny thing about wearing this to church today was that it was dress down Sunday. I was there last Sunday and Wednesday night and did n’t hear anyone mention/announce that we were to come casual. So I was overdressed.

Happens right? Has it ever happened to you?

How was your church service and what did you wear? Enjoy your last few hours before our work day on Monday. Sending love and prayers to Haiti!!

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Wearing Whales

Hello Divas & Divamoms,

Can you believe it is almost the weekend? I'm so excited! The first week back with students and I'm tired and in need of a nap. My co-workers daughter told her mom she hoped there was no school on Monday so she could sleep all day. She's in elementary school. How in the world can she be tired already? I certainly am going to miss my summer days. My head is still a bit cloudy and I haven't quite settled in yet. I just need a few more beach weekends and then I'll be ready. How are you kids feeling about being back in school?


On top of not being fully back into the swing of things my left leg has been giving me a fit. I'm not sure if I injured it or walking in heels all day so soon for 7.5 hours got the best of me but I had to wear flats today. Gasp, I know not my normal look but I made it work appropriate. I love these printed pants. I jumped right on this trend when it hit the fashion scene. This is the 2nd time I've styled them. I blogged about the first here. I mentioned in yesterday's post that I'm planning to refashion more and purchase new items less. My man child keeps asking to go on a cruise so I need to shop less and make that happen for us.

For me the color combo is divine. The great thing about living in South Florida is summer never quite goes away and I don't have to retire certain colors. This blouse is another new fav that I found in Forever 21. We have two stores in my area and the one that was recently remodeled is fantastic. Yes indeed!

Follow me on Instagram and see my overload of accessories. I had a serious arm party today, lollll! Three is the magic number. I need to wear these pants again with a different color combo. If you have suggestions on how else I can style these pants leave a comment below. Have a terrific Thursday evening.

Top: Forever 21 

Pants: Thrifted

Ring: Bakers 

Necklaces: Forever 21

Bangles: Various Stores

Sandals: Target

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Wild Wednesday

Happy Hump Day Divas & Divamoms,

Hope everyone is enjoying the day. I’m certain all the parents are elated the kids are back in school. The teachers are too (coughs and crosses self). No really we are so happy to have your babies back with us. Just remember you are the first and greatest teacher.  The world of education salutes you.

I’ve been bitten by the animal print bug. I picked this shirt up from Forever 21 a few weeks ago and was ready to wear it the moment I got it home. I’m warning you now not to judge me when you see a blog post next week with this lovely sheer high low blouse styled again.

Earrings: Aldo

Blouse: Forever 21

Pants: Thrifted

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Bangles: Charming Charlie & Forever 21

Photographer: KT

Remember what Eboni, my shoe fairy sister tweeted? She reminded me one day that I should refashion my clothes not buy more. Ty my stylish mom friend in my head suggest on her blog that you have 3 styles in mind when you make a purchase. I have 6, ok a lot. With the state of education and the budget, I’m going to put these two rules to the test this academic year.

Speaking of academics….a year has passed since I was enrolled in graduate school. I still want to finish my Ph.D. Unfortunately; college seems to be out of reach for those who have yet to obtain an undergrad degree so I guess I shouldn’t be too hard on myself. But it happens on those days when I feel like the educator that is good enough to showcase but not good enough to promote. I was speaking with someone about this a few days ago. She moved on and eventually left the school district but with jobs being so hard to find I’m feeling stuck.

I read a quote last week while reading Paulo Coelho’s The Aleph. It read, “Dreamers cannot be tamed.” I was reminded of this today as I pondered a few things about my life and the next chapter. How appropriate for a wild Wednesday eh?

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Inspired to Smile

Earrrings: Forever 21

Tee: Zara

Skirt: Gifted

Shoes: Payless

Photographer: Me

Happy Monday folks!

How was your day? Today was the first day back with my students. I must I am pleasantly pleased with the group that I have. I hope the students will continue to be as mild as they were today. I left with high hopes that this year will be a better one for me. I was up early and out the door on time. Ready to meet the new crew for intensive reading. I prepare all my outfits out for this week on Friday and Saturday. This look was one I found in the August edition of InStyle magazine. I couldn’t wait to recreate look.

Let me apologize for the quality of the photos. I’m still learning how to focus with my camera. I used my tripod for the first time and was just excited that I was able to get full body shots without my man child. I’ll be playing around on the weekend working on taking better shots. I think I set up some ISO settings on the camera. I have no idea what those letters even stand for. I’m using a Canon Powershot SX130 Is so if you know anything that would help me take better photos email me at KTsdivamom@gmail.com.

How did I do? Be sure to check out more pics for this inspired look on Instagram. You can click the link below to start following me.  

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Back to School Special: Pink Polka Dots

Shirt: Marshalls

Jeans: Forever 21

Shoes: Soda 

Faux Pearls Earrings: ?

Photographer: EJ my co-worker’s daughter

How was your week? I went back to work on Tuesday. For those of you who don’t know I’m a teacher for now. Once upon a time I was in grad school pursuing a PhD to move on from the bondage of being told year after year what an exceptional teacher I am but yet never compensated financially or promoted within my district. Today parents and students came to pick up schedules and find their classes. We were asked to dress casual but work appropriate. One of my co-workers interpreted this to mean her teenage daughter’s shorts, flip flops and a t-shirt.  Sometimes I feel like I’m overdressed for the classroom O.O!

Before you give me the appreciate you have a job speech, let me first say that I am a darn good teacher. Matter of fact, I’m a great teacher. I love reading. I’m a book worm but I’m burned out. Over it. I am READY for God to grant me that way to escape. #sayaprayerforme

Those of you who have been with me on this journey since the blog’s inception know that I’m passionate about our students receiving the best education that will ensure they can compete in today’s world. Well that’s not what we are offering them. It is becoming harder and harder to be a rule breaker to do what I know is best for my students with the mandates coming down from politicians yearly that take all the love and care out of being with teenagers who are more than robots taking standardized tests.

I worry about my own son being prepared for high school and he’s in a large district with great programs from IB to AP and magnet schools. Yet the type of education he receives is dependent upon a school’s letter grade based on FCAT scores and all the other assessments our students have to take yearly. This career isn’t as glamours as it appears because we have two months off.

Please take time to know what curriculum your child(ren) will receive. What is the highest standard for their next level in education be it elementary school to middle or high school to college. Having an A in a course means nothing if the student doesn’t acquire a skill he or she can use/demonstrate. Take your kids to the library. Ensure they are reading grade level/lexile appropriate books.

I’m still hopeful that I will be able to live up to the nickname my Granny gave me. She called me her “College Girl” and I want to finish college someday and be in a better position to help those students who are struggling with more than academics. In the meantime, I am asking that you do your part as a parent and hold your child(ren) accountable as well as the teacher/s, administrators and policy makers.

               

Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter and Instagram.

 

I am so in love with these wedges. I picked them up a week ago and couldn't wait to wear them. For a whopping $30, I left a shoe store that I checked out for the first time with a shoe sold to me by a former student I taught 5 years ago. Can you believe that? We kept staring at each other and finally started asking questions. I am so proud that Student J turned out ok. 

If you follow me in Instagram you konw my pedi was inspired by the school's floor. What do you think of the color combo? If you are intersted in these shoes, you can check out the store online at www.wshoesstore.com. I haven't visited the site so let me know what you find. 

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EBEW Goes Monochromatic

Happy Monday Divas & Divamoms,

I have a tee shirt that says which blue blue blue are you in various shades of blue. This was the second thing I thought of when I put this look together. The actual inspiration for this look was found here at www.glamour.com. A month back I purchased a similar skirt from Marshalls for $13. Deal right?

I wore this to church and received a lot of compliments. I decided to take it the extreme and match my makeup to the look.

Too much you think? I'm wearing MAC Freshwater and Brown Script. I haven't worn eyeshadow since the middle of this past school year. When we roll around to FCAT prep time I'm so stressed out the best I can do is make sure my face is clean, moisturized and evened out with a bit of foundation. My lipcolor is Sugar also by MAC. It is one of my favorite soft pink shades.

Tee &  Bow Ring: Forever 21
Necklace: Banana Republic

Skirt: Marshalls
Bangles: Charming Charlie & Forver 21 (animal print)
Shoes: Zara

Today was my first day back at work and I won't even go into details about how it went. Just know that a blog rant will be coming soon about the state of education through my eyes. I'm off to prepare for tomorrow. There will be meetings and meetings and meetings and more meetings and less time to prepare for your kids. NOT KIDDING!

and the winner of the giveaway is: Ticka at Spoon Full of Sugar! **throws confetti** I will be contacting you via email to get your mailing address. Thanks to all who participated. 

Air Kisses,

~dIvAmOm~

Quick: Weekend Giveaway

Happy Friday folks!

I want to thank you again for your prayers, patience and words of encouragement on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as I work through my grief. I'm still debating about writing/posting since my photographer quit on me and I haven't picked up a tripod yet. I don't want to bore you all with the details of my pain but it is really real. I never thought I would find myself in such a dark place after watching my Granny go from this loving, humorous stylish lady to one who would only open her eyes and sleep the days away. It happened she received the ultimate healing, the one I desired for her to be free from being trapped inside her own body. But when she left I was left devastated! 

Without your support my days would be really dreary. That's mainly whey I haven't written. Just don't feel up to it. I don't want you to leave and I have a surplus of goodies in my apartment, I want to show my appreciation for you staying the course and hanging out with me here. I'm giving away 2 pairs of earrings and 2 nail colors. The earrings have never been worn and the nail lacquer has not been used. Sometimes I make purchases that don't agree with me later when I get them home. Or I'm gifted things that just aren't me. I don't want to hurt anyone's feeling so I thank them politely and take them home. 

Because I have so many wonderful readers and lovely blogger pals, I am confident someone will make a home for these items. The giveaway opening will be for the weekend. I'll announce the winner on Monday.

Here are the deets:  

Rules of the GIVEAWAY are simple.

1. You MUST be a follower of my blog
2. You MUST leave the word GIVEAWAY in your comment
3. Lastly, you MUST leave your email address in your comment

The giveaway will end 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, August 12th and a winner will be announced on Monday, August 13th.

Please know there would be no blog with you. Help spread the word about the giveaway. Take a moment to catch up on old posts. Get to know me a little :) Grab some outfit inspirations. Build your faith and leave a comment. I love comments!!

Air Kisses,
~dIvAmOm~