back to the basics

Getting back to the basics is something we hear for a lot of different reasons. For instance, in fashion, getting back to the basics or classic pieces: black blazer, white button down, vintage Levis, and black pumps. It's simple, it's easy, it's classic. You can't go wrong with this outfit or these pieces. It will always work. You can go about your day feeling confident and comfortable. 

I like to look at Christianity the same way! I know that sounds funny but I like to constantly be reminded of the basics...

Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[c] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[d] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

 I feel like the basics are to love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul and love your neighbor as yourself. It's simple, it's easy, it's classic. It's what Jesus said. A lot of times in Christianity we get caught up in politics and denominational opinions. But this is one thing that can't be argued. It's our great commandment and should be our biggest priority. 

It's time we get back to the basics. Love Jesus with everything you are and love each other. 

live inspired,
Sarah Joy

Boot-iful

These cowboy boots though! The color, the snake skin, the shaft height— I can't get enough!  They have such great detailed stitching with the perfect riding heel. I will be wearing these beauties on the reg this fall and winter!

Also, I am loving my necklace I got from Harley and Maudes out of Choteau, Oklahoma!  I met them at a junk fair here in Springfield and it was great meeting some Okie girls! These ladies are so awesome and they make  gorgeous jewelry! You should definitely check them out here! Their jewelry would make great gifts this season!

Oh! I would like to give a shout out to Kacey Musgraves for the hairspiration today! Did you see her hair at the CMAs? It was incredible! I was loving the 70s middle part/80s bigness! I was a total fan!

At this moment I'm snuggled up on the couch eating chocolate chips and drinking a Dr. Pepper (my Grandad would not approve), watching football, and looking forward to the week to come! There are so many opportunities to love people. From the person at Walmart ringing you up, to your hair lady, to paying it forward at Starbucks! Sometimes we make our own opportunities to love. It doesn't always have to come to you. So think outside of the "me box" this week and show love to someone!

Plus, it's going to be cold cold this week. I'm talking not getting out of the 30s cold! I'm going to be wearing scarfs, coats, and boots all week! My iPhone also showed me a snowflake in the forecast! Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! :) 

Lastly, I just want to tell you, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL! Just in case no one has told you lately. You are loved and you are valuable. You are going to have an awesome week. You are strong and can do all things with Christ. When you except how powerful and awesome you are, you will be dangerous weapon for the Kingdom! Don't hold back, you got this! 

live inspired, 

Sarah Joy

christmas is coming...

Ok, I know it's just October BUT Christmas is only 81 days away! For some of us who are Christmas crazy (I'm obviously guilty) we like to start celebrating early. So, I want to make the world aware of the Christmas ornaments that I make and sell on Etsy!  

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I came up with this idea a few years ago when I went searching for a more rustic ornament that wasn't lookin' all cheesy. I don't do cheesy Christmas decor. I want a western, classic, and old country feeling. When I decorate for Christmas I want it to feel specifically crafted and thoughtfully designed. For me, Christmas is about family, Christ, and love. But I also love the natural elements of the holiday. I want to incorporate pine cones, natural woods, classic colors, and of course bright lights! 

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When I was on the hunt for this style I was very limited in the ornament area. So, I decided to make my own and that is how these decorative pieces were born. I have made some adjustments to the overall design the last few years and I'm really happy with the final product. I think it's pretty and unique. My obsession with Christmas and the spirit it brings goes way back. It's the music, food, lights, the decor. The beauty of the holiday starts with the feeling of joy it brings people of all ages and different walks of life. I'm happy that, in the slightest way, I can contribute to a joyful atmosphere with these ornaments! 

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Photos courtsey of Alex Schauer

My Etsy store is called The Cherokee West. I will continue to update my store throughout the season. I am also available for custom designs. If there is a specific fabric or color scheme you want, I will take care of you!  

I'm so excited for the holiday season! Please stop by The Cherokee West and take a look!

Merry Christmas,
Sarah Joy 

title, title, title...

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So, a couple weeks ago I went to visit family in Shreveport, Louisiana and while we were there we took a quick trip down to Monroe, Louisiana to visit my all time favorite store, Duck and Dressing. It was so fun to finally get to see the store in person. The decor is gorgeous and the atmosphere's inspiration level is out of this world. From the original brick walls and wood floors to the subtle touch of swamp moss at the jewelry counter; it was everything this rustic chic girl is looking for. Rebecca Robertson knows the way to my heart!

This dress is one of the items I got while I was there. It's sleeveless, rustic red, flowy, and is great for summer or fall (probably even winter since here in Texas it doesn't really get THAT cold). This color is so great: it makes me think happy thoughts. I chose to wear it with ankle boots but I think it would go great with some pumps or even my Ariats!

In this world, it's important to be "somebody". We strive for the perfect title whether that be at the work place, home, church, even in our social groups. We exhaust ourselves emotionally, spiritually, and even physically to accomplish what we think we have to so we will matter. I've been thinking about this a lot lately because right now as I'm currently in transition with jobs. I find myself finding my worth in a title. I think less of myself because I'm not Sarah DeForest, CEO of Life and All Things Perfect, LLC. The Lord spoke to my heart and let me know that that kind of thinking is not of Him and it's not even close to how He sees me. My worth and identity is in Him and that's all I need. He is all I need. Lately I have been seeking after the title and the accomplishment more than seeking the creator and giver of the title. Without Him the titles and the accomplishments mean nothing. He cares about my relationship with Him more than what I accomplish for Him. Contentment comes from knowing that you need nothing else beside the Lord.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33, NIV

love,
Sarah Joy

summer time blues...

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I love this top I got from Marshall's! It's the perfect shirt for these 105 degree days here in Texas. Blue and white is the perfect combo. It was nice today getting dressed up and putting make up on. This summer has been wonderful with getting to lounge all day every day (which is why I have had very few outfit posts) but it was nice to have a switch up!

Lately, I have noticed fear and doubt creeping up in my life. It's amazing how certain circumstances draw more insecurity to your life than others. Which in turn makes you feel weak and somewhat like a failure. When I fear (which is at least 6000 times a day) I suddenly put myself down for not having enough faith. I believe the Lord does not look down on us for fearing for worrying: we do. He just wants us to bring Him our fear immediately; as soon as we begin to feel that sense of dread and panic rising up in our heart and mind.

The song that has continued to play in my mind is I Will Exalt You by Hillsong. In the song it says, "Because you're with me, I will not fear." Every morning I begin my day with this song and I continue to say it to myself throughout the day. When you are constantly reminded of His presence and His love for you, it's hard to continue to fear...

love,
Sarah Joy