Girls for God

Hair Idea: Side Twirl Ponytail

2011-11-26T18:21:00.000-08:00

Looking for new ways to revamp the traditional ponytail? A side twirl ponytail is casually chic and easy to master.

What You Need:
- long hair
- large-barrel curling iron or flat iron
- ponytail elastic
- brush
- medium-light-hold hairspray

What To Do:
1. Smooth your hair with a brush.
2. Begin fastening hair into a ponytail, but pull it to the side. Drape the hair over your shoulder.
3. Using your curling iron, add a twist to your hair and curl the very end. (Using a flat iron? The technique is similar, but it may take several tries to get it right.)
4. Lightly spritz with hairspray to set the curls.

As with any new hairstyle, it’s a good idea to practice a day or two before you need to show off this go-to look. The great thing about ponytails is that they put off a down-to-earth vibe; it doesn’t have to be perfect!

CONNECT!
Would you rock this look? Leave a comment.
Did you try this hairstyle? Snap a photo and send it to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com !

What Are You Thankful For?

2011-11-22T13:26:00.000-08:00

It’s the time of year when take a break from school, roll out the good tableware, and ponder ways to attack our turkey while maximizing our mashed potato intake. Among the days of sleeping in and getting ready to see relatives, most of us are forgetting the big reason we’re celebrating – and no, it’s not about the pumpkin pie.

You’ve probably been told to “count your blessings” before. Try listing off three things you’re thankful for.

I’m Thankful For:
• Having a family who can provide for me
• Having friends who make me smile
• Our annual Thanksgiving kick-off trip down to Great Wolf Lodge

Making that list didn’t require too much thought, and while it makes you feel like you’ve fully embraced your capacity of Thanksgiving-spirit, you’re still missing the point. What we often fail to realize while we eat our way through this holiday is that it’s not about what we have to be grateful for, but who gave us those things. “Counting your blessings” is just the first step in feeling content with what you have.
Besides having family and friends who love us and food on the table, we have the Creator of the universe who continues to bless us with those things. God is the driving force between real thanksgiving, and our gratitude should be directed to Him. Psalm 95:1-6 says, "O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.” Psalm 107:1 tells us to "give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." What if we really acted upon our gratitude and praised God for what He has given us? That goes well beyond jotting down a list of worldly assets. Our focus this week should rest on God and his enduring love for us. That’s the greatest celebration of all!

GROW! Psalm 100, Psalm 145:7, Psalm 31:19, 1 Chronicles 29:11-13

CONNECT! What is one thing YOU are most grateful for and why? Send your thoughts to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com.

Surprise: GFG is Back!

2011-11-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

After a long break, Girls for God is back! Due to school and schedules, I had trouble keeping up this blog, but major changes to the design and posting are coming soon. Some changes have been made, however -- the writing team has been dropped, as files containing their information have been lost. (However, we still have room for guest posts! Inbox me at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com.) Another change is the permanent cancellation of the e-newsletter so GFG can focus on writing quality posts.

What can you expect from the new GFG?

more organized navigation
more beauty tips
more faith-centered articles
fun "get the look" fashion features
and much more!

These changes will not happen all at once but I am working to clean up the site to make it easier to reach the articles you want. Thanks for staying a loyal follower, and don't forget to tell your friends we're up and running again!

6 Mother's Day Ideas

2011-05-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming, and every year I try to make that day spectacular for my Mother, because she does so much for our family. Here are some easy gift idea's that won't break your budget!

1. A homemade card.
I use to think homemade cards weren't very special, but believe me... they are! They are so special especially to your Mother. It's something that she will cherish forever!

2. A recipe box.
If your Mom loves to cook or bake, this is perfect for her! Use a shoe box or a type of box that you think would work, and decorate it. My favorite way to do this is by decoupage. It's really easy and fun!
3. Homemade jewelery.
A necklace or bracelet made by you is something that your Mom will absolutely adore... And it's a great craft to do with your little sister!

4. Tissue paper flowers.
Tissue paper flowers are a great way to show your Mom you care! They're not nearly as expensive as real flowers, but they are just as pretty and you can spray a bit of perfume on them if you wish for them to be scented. The scent lasts about a day, but unlike real flowers, these can last forever.

5. Breakfast / Brunch.
Mom loves a good brunch! You can either do breakfast in bed, or make a lovely brunch for the family. You may have all your ingredients in your kitchen already - and it doesn't have to be fancy! When I was 8, I made my Mom toaster waffles and pop-tarts for her breakfast, and she loved it because it was from me - not because how good it tasted.

6. Mommy.
This one costs nothing at all, but makes a huge impact. Simply calling her "Mommy" for the day is a great way to make her feel loved!

Remember to let your Mom know you love her throughout the day and this Mother's Day will be spectacular!

-- This post was written by the lovely Grace Ward.

Interview: Vicki Fourie

2011-04-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

Vicki Fourie – South Africa’s own Miss Deaf South Africa 2009/2010 – was crowned 2nd Princess at the Miss Deaf International 2010 last year in Las Vegas. This year Vicki will participate in the Miss Deaf World 2011, which will take place in Prague, Czech Rep. from the 1st till 11th of July 2011. Girls-4-God chatted with Vicki to get a glimpse at what exactly motivated her to participate in beauty pageants…

1. Were you born without hearing, or did it develop later on in life?

When I was a baby, I had a high fever (just like Helen Keller) and we think that’s what caused my hearing loss. When I was 2 years old, I didn’t respond when my family called my name, and after extensive tests at the hospital, it was confirmed that I have 97% hearing loss. This came as a big shock for the family, especially my parents. However, my parents didn’t give up on me after receiving the news. Instead of looking at how big the problem was, they said, ‘How big is our God?’ I’m grateful that they reacted this way, for it enabled me to learn how to speak like a hearing person and read lips. I even went to a hearing English school, despite Afrikaans (a Dutch dialect) being my home language. There were many obstacles along the way, but I overcame them by believing that ‘Courage isn’t a gift, it’s a decision.’

2. Many people in your situation feel that they can’t achieve much in life, what would you say to them to convince them otherwise?
There are people who wallow in self-pity and bitterness, and that doesn’t bring you very far in life... Stop complaining – you are alive, and your disability and/or circumstances is nothing compared to what you have – the gift of life. The world doesn’t owe you a thing – it’s your responsibility to make something out of your life.

3. What made you enter beauty pageants?

The beauty pageant world came onto me unexpectedly. When I was in matric, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. There were 3 or 4 people who prophesied that I was going to be like Esther of the Bible – I was going to use my beauty to save a nation. At first, I didn’t quite understand (I thought I needed to marry a prince, and South Africa does not have royalty!). I heard about the Miss Deaf South Africa, and realized that Esther also partook in a pageant: the Miss Persia pageant. I took this as a sure sign that I must enter. It’s important to remember that beauty should not be our main focus in life. However, God used Esther’s beauty to save a nation… I know that the Lord gave me beauty for a reason. It’s always been my choice: will I use it to glorify God or bring myself fame?

4. Have you had a low point in your life? And if so, how did you rise above it to become successful?
When I was 14 years old, I was accidentally shot with a gun – the bullet entered me at the back of my shoulder and exited in the front. This accident changed my whole life – in a good way. Before this happened, I always thought that my life was about ME, about what I wanted, what I needed. I also struggled with depression. After the accident, my attitude towards life changed. I decided not to be selfish anymore and not to feel sorry for myself. Life owes you nothing – it’s your responsibility to make something out of it. The more I shared my story with others, the more I received healing. When something traumatic happens to you, you tend to keep it inside. It’s not the right thing to do – if you don’t talk about it, you will die within yourself.

5. What are your goals and ambitions in life?

As a kid, I knew that God had a great purpose for my life. I just didn’t know what that purpose would be. As I grew older, I realized that life is not about what I want and what I need, it’s about others. Whenever I meet people, and they tell me that I have changed their lives, it’s at that moment where I know that I’m right on track in my life. It’s not about how many times I’m on TV, or how many articles is written about me – it’s about the people.

6. What advice would you give other young people who have to overcome obstacles?

Be bold – do not be shy. Always ask questions. Be curious about everything and everything – the more you learn, the more you realize you still have a lot to learn. The world owes you nothing – it’s your responsibility to make something of it. It doesn’t help feeling angry towards God or people about your disability or circumstances. Believe me, it’s a waste of time. Find out what are your talents and gifts, and focus on them. Embrace who you are. You’re disability does not need to define you… Be courageous!

Email Vicki: vicki@247mail.co.za , or visit her blog http://www.vickifourie.blogspot.com/ . Follow her on Twitter (@vickifourie) to see how she does at the Miss Deaf World 2011 in Prague.

Top 8 Blogging Tips

2011-04-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

A blog is a place for you to let the world know your thoughts, ideas, and inspirations. If you want to bring in more readers to your blog (and keep them coming back for more), you may want to give it a makeover. I’ve had several people ask me for my favorite blogging tips, and now I’m going to reveal to you the things I’ve learned that have helped GFG get where it is today.

1 Make your blog look attractive. Viewers will make up their mind about your blog before they even read your posts. The first thing readers see is the color scheme, layout, and graphics. Make your blog look as appealing as the posts you’ve written. It’s also smart to include a relevant image with every post, as people will remember what you wrote more easily if they have a corresponding visual image.

2 Post as often as possible. This probably been my biggest struggle in keeping up with the GFG blog. Writing so many articles is a huge job, but someone has to do it. It helps that I have a great team to contribute as well as many guest writers.

3 Write top-quality posts. There is tons of information on the internet covering every subject, including whatever it is you choose to write about. There isn’t much that you can provide your readers that is completely “new”. How you present it is what makes a difference. If your posts are the most relevant, concise, well-written, and fun, your readers will choose you over any other source.

4 Connect with other bloggers. Commenting on other people’s blogs helps thrust you farther into the wonderful world of blogging, especially if your comments are thoughtful and relevant to the post. (Writing “COOL POST! PLZ CHECK OUT MY BLOGGZ!” does not constitute as thoughtful and relevant.) When people comment on your posts, do your best to reply and thank them for their input.

5 Don’t overdo it. Graphics that are 60% glitter and 40% pink that move, play musical instruments, and make you want to punch a baby are not necessary. Pictures of kittens in pink tutus aren’t relevant to your blog – unless your blog is all about kittens, in which case you are probably going to ignore every bit of advice I give you. Music is also iffy – it can be cool and groovy, but it can also take a lot of time to load if a reader doesn’t have high-speed internet. The same goes for graphics. When it comes to your blog template, most readers prefer two columns – the main column and a single sidebar – because this isn’t too overwhelming. The simplest advice? Declutter, trash the glitterlicious kitten photos, and only feature things relevant to your blog.

6 Find your niche and stick with it. Girls for God covers all kinds of subjects, from makeup to faith, relationships to fashion, and many things in between, but I don’t post articles on the U.S. economy or power tools very often. It’s safe to say that if you want to know how to fix your car’s brakes with just peanut butter and a paper clip, you’re in the wrong place. In short, if your blog is about all about kittens, don’t post a photo of a walrus in a Halloween costume. Your readers won’t come back to your site if they don’t know what it’s about.

7 Never copy someone else’s posts. Plagiarism is stealing. It’s not only illegal, but it also displeases God, and you don’t want to be known for that. Changing a few words is still stealing and is something good bloggers never do. If you admire someone’s work, contact them and ask them if you can put a certain post on your blog. (If you choose to do this, put the person’s name and a link back to their site at the beginning or end of the post.) Give credit where credit is due. (If you’re worried about your content being stolen, check out Copyscape.com.)

8 Accept criticism, but don’t reject your opinions. It’s great when readers give you feedback – good and bad. Listen and learn from it. Just remember that you cannot cater to everyone’s opinion and you cannot make everyone happy. If you’re not stepping on someone’s toes, you might not be moving at all.

Have some tips of your own you’d like to share? Send them to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com .

How to Curl Your Hair the Natural Way

2011-03-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

If you’re too busy to curl your hair in the morning, or if you simply just can’t afford the expensive hair products, there are numerous natural items that could help curl you hair, and you may even be able to find them in your very own kitchen or cupboards! Not only will these seven products give your curls more of a natural boost, they can also help nourish your hair and make it look more refined, sleek, and shiny as well.

Olive oil
Olive oil not only repairs damaged, dry, and brittle hair, it can also give your hair a sleek, natural-looking curl without leaving any of those annoying little frizzies behind. Take approximately half a cup of oil (or one cup if your hair is long and thick) and microwave it for a few minutes until it becomes slightly warm, (don’t leave it in the microwave for too long as it could burn your scalp as you apply it). Try to use a dark olive oil that is rich and/or has a high fat content for extra effect.

Aloe Vera gel
If you have some extra Aloe Vera gel lying around the house, apply it to your hair from the roots to the tips, (or the parts of your hair that are exceptionally dry), to give your hair a natural curl. Aloe Vera gel is also effective in taming any frizzies, and can leave your hair feeling soft and smooth. Another effective way of doing this is to use Aloe Vera plants or leaves, and then cut off the end of a leaf to extract the gel.

Honey
Believe it or not honey acts as a naturally conditioner for curly and/or dry hair, and contains numerous natural minerals and vitamins that can help your hair retain its moisture. Simply add one teaspoon of honey into a cup of water, and then after applying it to your hair let it sit for about five to seven minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly afterwards.

Shea butter
If you’re hoping to give your natural wavy hair an extra “oomph”, then Shea butter may be the answer to all of your problems. Shea butter acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that can help treat scalp conditions like eczema, and it can also improve your hair’s elasticity as well. Furthermore, Shea butter contains natural sunscreen properties that could help protect your hair from any kind of sun damage. If you’re going to try applying Shea butter to your hair, make sure it is the type that is raw and unrefined ( which means it is extracted with water), and double check to see that it doesn’t contain any harsh solvents or chemicals.

Extra conditioner
This point cannot be stressed enough: If you have curly or wavy hair, then try to avoid shampooing every day and leave as much conditioner in your hair as possible. In fact, you should only be shampooing your hair once every two to three days because shampoo can dry out all the moisture from your hair and leave it looking brittle and limp. After conditioning your hair, wrap your hair in a towel for about 60 minutes so it forces a natural curl to your hair. (You can even try leaving the towel on overnight if you’re desperate).

Braid your hair
This is possibly the easiest, cheapest, and most natural way to make your hair look more curly. Braid your hair while it’s damp, and then sleep on it overnight. (The general rule of thumb is the tighter the braids, the smaller your curls will be). If you’re struggling to braid your hair by yourself, ask a friend or family to braid your hair for you.

Of course these results will vary from person to person depending on the texture and thickness of your hair, and it will usually require a trial-and-error process before you notice any immediate results. If your hair is flat or limp, then you may have to shell out the extra cash to buy some natural curling products, but try to avoid buying products that contain alcohol because they do more damage to your hair than good.

Bio: Alexis Posharo is a stay at home mom, freelance writer and representative for Home Security Systems, where she writes on the latest home security camerasto keep your family safe. Her hobbies include playing piano, practicing yoga, and curling up with a good book at the end of a long day.

Book Review: Walls by Ryan Rush

2011-03-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt stuck? Have you ever felt like you can’t move forward? Is something holding you back? No matter what life you live, you will always face challenges that can keep you from living out your full potential. Author and pastor Ryan Rush calls these obstacles walls. “A wall is an unhealthy mind-set that keeps you from living life as God intends. They’re right in front of you, like it or not,” he says. “They can block you from the close relationship with God you’ve longed for.” But how can you break through the walls in your life?

Ryan Rush seeks to answer this question in his new book, Walls: Why Everybody’s Stuck (And Nobody Has to Be). He explains how to identify, define, and overcome the walls in your own life, while sharing stories of his personal experiences with his own walls. “Anytime you stop expecting something beyond your current situation, you begin to settle for far less than what could be,” says Rush. “Regardless of the wall you are facing, there is a corresponding promise just waiting to be discovered.”
I believe this book is an invaluable resource for anyone who feels “stuck” in their current situation. It’s loaded with truth about life and God’s promises and how trusting in Him can get you through anything. It’s not about what you’re going through, it’s about your mind-set, and Walls outlines the mind-set that God intended all of us to have.

I recieved this book to review for free from the Tyndale Blog Network.

Author Interview: Sandra Byrd

2011-03-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

Grounded in both her faith and craft, author Sandra Byrd uses her talents for writing to inspire and influence tween and teen girls with down-to-earth books about one girl's life in the U.K. Sandra chats with Melissa Renee about her stories and upcoming projects and gives aspiring writers some tried-and-true advice.

When did you realize you wanted to write for a living?
When I was a kid I wanted three careers: to be a hair stylist, to be a waitress, and to be an author. After I mohawked my Barbie I knew I wasn’t cut out for the hairstylist career. I actually was a waitress in a Jewish deli when I was a teenager, and I worked for a caterer. Writing, however, was the real passion. And it stuck.

Tell us about the London Confidential series.
LONDON CONFIDENTIAL, published by Tyndale House Publishers, is a new Tween/Teen series where British fashion, friendships, and guys collide, and where an all-American girl learns to love life and live out her Christian faith. A nub of doubt rose inside me—the kind that popped up, unwelcome, anytime I tried to rationalize something that wasn’t exactly true or right. This time I swallowed it back. I lived in London now. It was time to take matters into my own hands. When her family moves to London, 15-year-old Savvy Smith has to make her way in a new school and in a new country. She just knows the school newspaper is the right place for her, but she doesn’t have the required experience. Can she come up with a way to prove herself and nab the one available position on the newspaper staff at Wexburg Academy? Along the way, Savvy finds out a lot about herself, her family, and her God and in the process she learns to love life and live out her faith.

Is Savvy’s story connected somehow to your own life?
I moved quite a bit when I was growing up, so the challenges that Savvy faces in relation to that are ones I can relate to as well. I do love London, too! :)

Has Savvy’s story ended, or will there be another installment in the series?
You can find Savvy’s story in four installments: Book 1 – Asking for Trouble; Book 2 – Through Thick and Thin; Book 3 -- Don't Kiss Him Goodbye; and Book 4 -- Flirting With Disaster.

Are you currently working on any other projects?
I am currently writing a series for adults set in Tudor England, called Ladies in Waiting. I have been a lady waiting to write about this time period, waiting for a long time, so I am pinching myself, if you'll excuse the cliché, that it's finally happening! I am so excited about this project. It's a series of three historical books that take place at the Tudor Court. Book 1 is set during Anne Boleyn's reign, and as told from the point of view of her true-to-life best friend, Meg Wyatt. Book 2, Best Kept Secrets, will be set in Katherine Parr's court and features a young woman with a gift of prophecy. Book 3, Queen of Hearts, shows a daring young woman whom Queen Elizabeth befriends, but then who may lose it all. These were strong, educated women that had a major impact on the world and on the reformation. I hope you'll love reading them as much as I am loving writing them. Book 1, To Die For, will release in August 2011.

What is a typical day in the life of a writer like?
Coffee. Email. Coffee. Responding to lessons I am reviewing or coaching other writers through their manuscripts. Coffee. Writing for several hours to meet a word count. More email. Coffee.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
1. The first and foremost qualification for being a writer is being a reader. If you don’t love to read – reward yourself with books, talk about books with others, find yourself reading late into the night with a good one – it will be hard to be a writer. A lot of writing structure is assimilated by osmosis – reading.
2. Next, you have to be a dedicated craftsman. Be willing to write and rewrite and rewrite again till you get it perfect. As Michelangelo said, the David was inside the marble waiting to come out. A good sculptor can carve it out of the stone. So it is with a book. The good book is in there, but it must be patiently worked and reworked. Part of the key to this is to not worry about getting it “right” the first time. It won’t be right the first time. The first draft, you’re often just laying out all the pieces on the table and then looking at them to see how they fit together.
I believe that one reason people want it right the first time is that they’re afraid that if it isn’t, they aren’t a “real” writer. Real writers keep working on a book till it’s all the way done. Sometimes I think that computer technology has done a real disservice to writers, because we can type fast, and email, the expectation is that we can create quickly. And that’s not always true. I think that new writers are shocked by the amount of work it takes to write and rewrite a book till it’s “done” too. It’s a hard job with mostly mediocre pay. But the satisfaction of having finished the book and reached into peoples’ lives in a fun and meaningful way is satisfying
3. Find a mentor. There are excellent organizations, the Christian Writer’s Guild is one, that offer mentoring courses. If you don’t want to enroll in a course, find someone who writes and take them out to lunch. Ask them how to begin, ask for tips, ask for anything except the contact to their agent. If an established writer sees you constantly working to better your craft they may be willing to help in other ways. Attending writing conferences is another excellent way to better your skills and make good contacts.
4. Be patient and persistent. Don’t give up. Be willing to start small, and stay there, if that’s where your ministry lies. I’ve written many books, but some of my most satisfying published works are small pieces. One piece I wrote to honor a high school teacher who made a significant impact on the pre-Christian me. Another fulfilling writing project was a small speaking part for a child who didn’t have a place in the church’s Christmas program. Don’t discount “little” ministry, it’s often the very thing the Lord wants you to do.
5. Keep an open hand. Let God put in it what He wants, and take out what He wants.

Besides writing, what do you enjoy?
Cooking and baking, spending time with my family and friends, music, and, of course, reading!

What do you feel God has been trying to teach you lately?
My favorite piece of scripture at any given time is whichever one God is using to speak to me at the moment, because when He does, I know He is attentive to my concerns and hears and loves me in both hopeful and ashen circumstances. He has already prepared a plan and a way.

What message do you hope girls will get from your books?
Be strong and courageous. Dream big. Trust God even when it seems very dark. Love people but don't let them walk on you. Live with joy and faith.

For a review of Sandra's book Don't Kiss Him Goodbye, click here.

10 Easy Ways to Brighten up any Outfit

2011-03-01T19:53:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wished your outfit could be a little less, dull? I know I have! So many times I will put on the perfect outfit, only to find that it is still missing something. Sometimes, jeans and a t-shirt just don't cut it. Here are 10 ways to make your outfit stand out from the rest :)

10. Add Some Colorful Jewelry

This is the most common option, and the most budget-friendly. There are millions of pieces of jewelry, all of them adding a unique touch to your outfit. Here are a few that will stay within a budget and are wearable with both fancy and casual outfits.

Forever 21 necklace: $6.80

Forever 21 necklace, $8.80

Forever 21 Bracelet, $4.80

Forever 21 Bracelet, $12.80

Forever 21 Bracelet, $5.80

Forever 21 Earrings, $2.80

Forever 21 Ring, $1.50

There are so many types of jewelry, and most of it is budget-friendly. Some of my favorite places to but jewelry are:

Forever 21: Often, I can buy tons of jewelry there for under $10, and even under $5. They also tend to have super chic jewelry :)

Kohls: They always have some kind of jewelry on sale, and they have more fancy jewelry than Forever 21.

Claires: Though not always the cheapest, occasionally you can snatch up a minimally priced pair of earrings or a necklace.

9. Add a scarf

I think each girl should own at least one colored scarf. My favorite scarf is teal with peacock feathers printed onto it. I also have a purple scarf I wear quite often. If you do not own one casual scarf, I urge you to go buy one. Here are a few options:

Forever 21 Scarf, $8.80

Kohls Scarf, $5

Claires Scarf, $12

Some of my favorite places to buy these are:
Kohls: If you can hit a good sale, these are usually pretty cheap.
Claires: I have never bought a cheap scarf at Claires, but they have some oober-cute ones.
Wal-Mart: Though a bit odd, They have some very cheap scarves, and very bright too!

8. Add a purse.
One of my absolute favorites. I have enough purses to feed an army. If the army ate purses that is :) Though bags always tend to be a but pricier than other accesories, I tend to use them much more. Here are a few bright purses for under $25

Forever 21 Coral Purse $19.80

Claires Handbag $24

Forever 21 $20.80

Old Navy $10

Old Navy $24.50
Some of my favorite places to buy purses are...
EVERYWHERE!I love purses, my mom has threatened me many many times :) Now really
Mark by AVON. I love their purses though they are pricey, I like them a lot!
Wal Mart. I can almost always find a purse I like there.
Occasionally I like claires and Target, but not all the time.

7. Add some Colorful Shoes

I LOVE SHOES! I think every female knows this to be true :) There are TONS of bright shoes that match a lot of outfits, and most of them aren't too pricey :) Here are a bunch of options that will make a pair of jeans and a t-shirt look fabulous :)

Payless:$16.99

Payless:$19.99

Payless $22.99

Amazon.com $17.99 {They have about a dozen colors and I LOVE them :) }

My favorite places to buy shoes are:
Payless. The name is self explanatory
Target. I have a size 10/11 foot, and target carries that size. There can be miracles...

6. Add some Leg-wear
What kind of leg-wear? Tights, legwarmers, leggings, all these are among the best accessories ever. I love them. I absolutely adore adding the splash of color other then skin-tone underneath a dress. Not to mention {in most cases} it makes it more modest! Here are a few of my FAVORITE leg-accessories :)

These tights from We Love Colors are oober cute! They have 25+ different colors!$12.50

Amazon.com $16.59

Polka dotted tights, Also from We Love Colors $12.50

Payless $6.99

Payless $5.99

I also have bought legwarmers, tights, and leggings at Target, Claires, and Wal-mart :)
My Favorite places to buy these is:
Target: If you can go at the right time there is generally a good supply.
Claires. $7 for Bright Purple over the knee slouch legwarmers :)
5.Paint your nails/Add Makeup
This one is the easiest, and it makes a huge difference. It may seem small, but it is very noticeable :) Add polka-dots or paint them two or 3 different colors and they will be noticed! Put two different colors in your eyeshadow (Be careful not to look like a fairy :)

Target $7.50

$2 at Target

Mark by Avon $20

Mark by AVON $15

Of course, you can buy nail polish literally ANYwhere.My favorite place to buy it is Target. Target has a ginormous collection and it is OOBER-cheap.

4. Add a sweater

I love sweaters and cardigans of all sorts! There are SO many of these that are so chic, and really versatile! Such as these!

Forever 21 $7.24

Forever 21 $15.99

Old Navy $29.50

Old Navy $24.94

I have to say, Old Navy, Macy's and Kohls are the BEST places to buy these :)

3. Tank tops/Tight undershirts
Tanks tops and under-t-shirts are so simple, and so cute! They not only can brighten an outfit, but they make it more modest! Tanktops with polka-dots, stripes, and lace are incredibly cute with an otherwise-too-low tshirt. Some of the cutest ones are at cheaper stores like Target and Wal-mart, or in stores like Kohls.

Kohls $9

Kohls $5.99

Kohls $5.99
2. Hair Accesories
My favorite way to Brighten! There are literally thousands of options. I Love places like Forever 21 and Claires because they sell Hair accessories SO cheap!

Forever 21 $2.50

Forever 21 $5.80

Forever 21 $6.80

Forever 21 $6.80
By Far My favorite place to buy Hair accessories is Claires, They have hundreds. Heavenly
The #1 way to brighten up your outfit is with...
A Smile!

Absolutely Free!

Sincerely,

Libbi H.

Jealousy Devotional by Faith

2011-02-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

Jealousy. It's something we have all dealt with. It's evil, overcomes you, making you feel angry and bitter -- all at once. Why does it seem like most of the time we are jealous of material items? We shouldn't be.

So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. (2 Corinthians 4:18) So then, why do we still feel this envy? Why every time your best friend shows you her new phone, you immediately want it? It's because we are human. Humans like ourselves often cannot control this emotion because of how strong it is.

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. (James 3:14-16) Envy is straight from the devil. He feeds it to us. He tries to make you feel this way. Don't let him win.

To do this, you must seriously not be jealous of whatever item the person has. Just think….. In a few years maybe even months that new 4th generation iPod touch will be way out of style & everyone will want something new. And then that will go out of style, and everyone will want something else. It is a never-ending cycle and it would be best if you don't let it get its grip on you. A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot. (Proverbs 14:30)

Every time you start to feel jealous, think of what things await you in heaven! The things you have down here on Earth will one day be gone; we Christians have something even better -- something that will last forever. Something that doesn’t go in a cycle or out of style. Salvation.

Cozy Cool Winter Fashion Tips

2011-02-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

Trying to stay warm in this winter wonderland? Bundle up with these quick tips.

GO RED! A red houndstooth coat instantly revamps your outfit.

ALL WRAPPED UP! A chunky knit scarf keeps you warm and stylish.

FUR REAL! Faux fur, if used in sparing amounts, adds glamour to a winter wardrobe.

COZY COATS! A quality, structured coat is one of the most important pieces in your closet.

[ Find these outfits and more at Modcloth.com. ]

Interview with Author Brandy Bruce

2011-01-22T18:28:00.000-08:00

I sit down for an exclusive interview with Brandy Bruce, author of Looks Like Love and book editor for Focus on the Family, as she dishes on God, love, and her top advice for aspiring authors.

WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR WRITING?
I can remember writing stories from the time I was in the sixth grade. I fell in love with books at a really early age. I think it was my love of reading that inspired me to want to write my own stories.

WHAT WAS WORKING AS A NONFICTION BOOK EDITOR FOR FOCUS ON THE FAMILY LIKE?

Well, I'm still currently a book editor for Focus. I've been with Focus for more than 6 years now and I love it. Working with authors, editing manuscripts, reviewing cover comps, going to writers' conferences--it's the perfect job for a book-lover like myself. And actually, we're considering breaking into the fiction market as well as nonfiction. I'm pretty excited about that. I've worked on some amazing book projects at Focus; it's been a phenomenal experience for me.

HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR YOUR NEW BOOK?
I went on a European tour the summer before I graduated college, and I fell in love with London. I knew I wanted to write a story that involved London in some way. I also really love the contemporary romance genre. So I was inspired by writers such as Robin Gunn, Susan May Warren, Tracey Bateman, Kristin Billerbeck, and Jenny B. Jones.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BOOK.

Looks Like Love is basically about a girl, Kasey Addison, a junior marketing consultant, who's starting over. Everything she thought she knew about love suddenly feels like a lie. So Kasey takes off on a journey to rediscover life and faith and love. Her adventure begins in London while she's visiting her best friend. When her little whirlwind trip to England is over, she comes home to find herself suddenly on the marketing team for LETA, a growing cosmetics company. When LETA decides to release their very first fragrance, Kasey's challenged to find out what love looks like and find a way to sell it. Along the way, Kasey learns that love looks like what she least expected.

WHAT MESSAGE DID YOU WANT YOUR READERS TO GET FROM YOUR BOOK?
That love doesn't always come wrapped in neat little packages. It can be messy; it can be painful; it can be hard. But it's worth it. And that no matter what we go through in life, God's love is always available to us.

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED WHILE WRITING AND PUBLISHING, AND HOW HAS GOD HELPED YOU OVERCOME THEM?
If you talk to most writers, they'll say that they just have to write. It's who they are. They'll find the time to do it somehow. For me, I had this story that wouldn't stop bugging me. I had to write it. Once I did, I showed it to an agent (Chip MacGregor) who loved it and signed me as one of his authors. That was a great day. Then came the hard part--selling it. We came really close with a couple of publishers and got some great feedback, but just weren't able to sell it. I told Chip I wanted to self-publish it at that point, and he was totally supportive. Working in the industry myself, I know how difficult it can be for new people to break into the business. So I self-published with WestBow Press and it's been a wonderful experience. I had a few authors come alongside me and give me some great endorsements. I had editorial help from fellow editors as I polished my story. So I felt really blessed with all the support and encouragement I received. Now the book is out there and I am thrilled with the final product.

ARE YOU WORKING ON ANY OTHER UPCOMING PROJECTS?
Well, as an editor, I'm currently juggling two book projects. That takes a lot of my time. But I'm also working in a little time to write. My sister and I have been working together, co-authoring a fantasy YA (young adult) novel. I'm super excited about it!

WHAT'S ONE RANDOM FACT ABOUT YOU THAT MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW?
I'm more than a little bit obsessed with Diet Dr Pepper.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG ASPIRING AUTHORS?
Go to writers' conferences and make contacts. Create the best book proposal you can and shop it to agents. And if an agent tells you that something is missing, listen to him or her. Join a critique group and get feedback on your writing. And most of all, know your genre and audience. So read, read, read!

Q&A: Doubting God's Call

2011-01-01T17:49:00.000-08:00

Would God call me to do something I really don’t want to do?

Sometimes we think that if we give our lives completely to God, He’ll automatically send us to Africa to work in the mission field. That’s not how God works. He’s not out to “get us”. He loves giving His children great gifts. But like most fathers, He knows best!

There are lots of examples in the Bible of God asking people to do something they didn’t want to do at first. Noah probably didn’t want to build a huge boat in the desert in front of all his neighbors. Joshua and his people probably didn’t want to march around their enemy’s city seven times. But guess what? Noah built the ark, saving him, his family, and the animals. Joshua and his army marched around Jericho and the city walls crumbled. God told them to do something “uncool” and not-so-fun, and they did it. Look what was accomplished because they had faith! Joshua’s army overtook the sinful city easily, and Noah saved the animal species and the human race (yeah, you’re a descendant of Noah). Pretty cool, huh?

Every time we choose to obey God, He shows Himself to us in new ways and we get to know Him more. God may call you to do something hard or uncool, but as you obey, you’ll see how amazing God’s plans are.

+50 Things to do in Winter

2010-12-26T19:44:00.000-08:00

Wondering how to spend the rest of winter? These ideas will get you cozy in no time!
1. Relax in a hot tub – when it’s snowing!
2. Make hot chocolate with milk instead of water (and don’t forget the marshmallows).
3. Bundle up in comfy oversize sweaters, long leggings, and chic boots.
4. Slough off dead skin with a sugar scrub.
5. Read at least two great books – and tell me what they are!
6. Give yourself a pedicure, just for fun. You’ll instantly feel prettier.
7. Make snow angels.
8. Take pictures of your pets and siblings in the snow.
9. Buy at least one really cute scarf. (Try Target.)
10. Get a really cute coat that you wouldn’t normally buy and wear it all the time.
11. Start a discussion on the Girls for God Facebook page.
12. Swirl your hair into a messy up-do and wear your scarf and coat. Trés chic!
13. Make apple cobbler with your mom.
14. Donate blankets to your local homeless shelter.
15. Play Monopoly with your dad.
16. Go see a play with your family.
17. Stop by your local animal shelter and take home a furry friend.
18. Leave a comment – LOTS of comments – on the GFG blog!
19. Try your hand at painting, sewing, or sketching.
20. Grab some apple cider and snuggle up in your bed with a Bible.
21. Visit your grandparents.
22. Help your mom cook dinner.
23. Invite your friends over for snacks and a Bible study (and do it again in a few weeks).
24. Play classical music throughout your house.
25. Draw a picture or write a poem on why you love winter.
26. Pray for a friend who’s going through some tough times.
27. Send a homemade card to someone you miss.
28. Write down 4 of your favorite Bible verses and tape them in random spots around your room.
29. Rearrange your bedroom furniture.
30. Throw away old makeup you don’t use anymore.
31. Wear fuzzy socks with pride.
32. Resist the urge to buy Uggs.
33. Get a haircut that you haven’t had before.
34. Pretend your ramen noodle soup was prepared by master French chefs and eat with gusto.
35. Check out the One Voice blog to see what else I’m up to.
36. Join Operation Beautiful.
37. Make a little recipe book of yummy-sounding things your mom never makes.
38. Cook one meal a week for six weeks from your recipe book.
39. Paint your little sister’s nails.
40. Think about Jesus’ sacrifice for you.
41. Start a blog and tell me about it. (I’ll give you some tips through email if you’d like.)
42. Write a song and play it for your family.
43. Take a picture of your house all decorated and strung with lights.
44. Do a photo shoot of yourself in the snow.
45. Go without makeup for 2 weeks.
46. Read John 3:16 out loud for the millionth time.
47. Make a fire in your fireplace. (Be careful!)
48. Read by the fire.
49. Play a game with your siblings.
50. Send a homemade card to your aunt telling her how cool she is.
51. Think about all you’ve done this winter and thank God for this blog!
52. Read the GFG blog every day and tell all your friends about it!

Gifts For Less

2010-12-05T14:32:00.000-08:00

Everyone likes to receive gifts, especially when thought was put into them. Unfortunately, as a teenager with no job, it is hard to spend much money on gifts. What's the solution? If you are not very artsy, and always seem to be broke around Christmas, then this is the gift guide for you!

Cheap: Movie night kit. Buy popcorn baskets, usually found at target or the Dollar Tree (Buy some like this for $1 ) Then buy any type of bagged popcorn, and insert a bag into the popcorn bucket (like this Only $2 for 3 bags) Finally, go pick out a box of candy to put in the bucket. What is your total price for the entire gift? About $3, which is less than the average cost of a matinee, or a matinee popcorn, or even a matinee candy!
Optional: Go buy a $1 movie from the Dollar Tree (Just for fun)

Really Cheap: Celebration Calendar. *WARNING: this gift, though incredibly fun and cheap, takes a lot of time, so don’t do this on Christmas Eve :).
Go to the Dollar Tree, General Dollar, and Family Dollar, and they all have $1 calendars. As long as you have pens/pencils/sharpies at home, this gift only costs a dollar for the calendar. Next, go to this website.
This is where the fun part comes in. In every day of the calendar, write down a holiday for that day. Put a note in the beginning of the calendar saying, “Every Day is A Reason to Celebrate!” Who knew that February 21th was National Sticky Buns day? ANYONE would be happy to receive this gift, and it only costs a dollar!

Free: Everyone underestimates the power of a heartfelt card. Costing no more than 10 cents for a piece of paper, this is the way to go. Simply take a piece of paper (you could also use decorated paper, about 25 cents) Fold it in half, and inscribe your message. Just because this is very cheap does not mean your words have to be also. Here is an example of a bad letter:

Dear Grandma,
Merry Christmas! Have a great year!
Sincerely,
Me

If you are going to write a letter, put time and effort into it, write at least ten reasons that you are thankful for your grandma, or your best memories, or even write a poem!
As you hopefully have seen, even if you are out of money, your gift can still get 5 stars! If you put in the time, effort, and love into your gift, then it will definitely be a hit!
Libbi H.

10 Tips for Journaling with Jesus

2010-11-28T18:20:00.000-08:00

Did you know journaling can help you connect with God? Renee Johnson, the Devotional Diva, has been journaling for a long time and wants to share her tips with you!

1. Pick A Secluded Spot. (“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door…Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." - Matthew 6:6).

2. Grab Your Favorite Bible, Devotional, Journal & Pen/Pencil.

3. Pick A Date/Time (Morning, Afternoon Evening, Bed Time).

4. Ask God To Be Your Friend. Replace Dear “Diary” with God. (See: Romans 5:8-11).

5. Discover Your Prayer [Journal] Language (See: Matthew 6:5-15).

6. Use What You’ve Got To Find Something New (Start with writing down a Bible verse from your daily quiet time, then finish by journaling your own personal thoughts).

7. Start With Praise.

8. DO NOT GIVE UP! (See: Galatians 6:9-10 & “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” - Matthew 7:7-8, NLT).

9. Warning: No Guilt. Pick Up Where you Left Off. (Refuse to worry if you missed a day or three).

10. God Will Do What He Promised You! (See: Psalm 37:5 & Matthew 25:23. If you find yourself needing an accountability partner to keep you in check to stay in the Word daily, don’t hesitate to ask a best friend, myself, a mentor or pastor).

Renee Johnson is a spirted speaker and writer to 20-somethings. She is known as the "Devotional Diva" to all her blog readers. Her ministry goal is to challenge you to dig deeper and move forward in your faith. She is the author of Faithbook of Jesus: Connecting with Jesus Daily, a book that will help you connect and chat with God in a relevant way. You can grab a copy here.

Pumpkin Desert Recipe

2010-11-20T20:46:00.001-08:00

It's about that time of year when you just want to eat pumpkin pie; unless of course, it tastes like pumpkin pie. Though plain-jane pumpkin pie is occasionally tasty, it is no match for pumpkin-heaven-extravaganza! This is my FAVORITE pumpkin dessert recipe. I am sure it will be yours also. It is almost a million times better then pumpkin pie.

Pumpkin Desert
1 29 oz can pumpkin

1 12 oz can sweetened condensed milk

4 tsp pie spice

1/2 tsp salt

3/4 cup sugar

3 eggs
1 package yellow cake mix

1-1/2 cubes butter

WHAT TO DO:

1. Preheat Oven to 350 degrees.
2. Beat eggs, then add remaining ingredients(except the cake mix and butter) and mix well.
3. Pour into 9x13 pan.

4. Sprinkle with 1 package of yellow cake mix. Melt butter and drizzle over cake mix. Top with pecans if desired. 5. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes.

6. Enjoy!

Book Review: Don't Kiss Him Goodbye - Sandra Byrd

2010-11-20T12:10:00.000-08:00

Looking for a fun book that will challenge your faith? Look no further! In Sandra Byrd's London Confidential series, the third book, Don't Kiss Him Goodbye, may be just what you're looking for. Savvy Smith is an American teen growing up near London, England. Aside from her musical talents, she also has a gift for journalism and writes an advice column for the school paper. When she meets Rhys, a mysterious "bad boy", she finds herself struggling to follow her own advice and stay true to who God designed her to be. Don't Kiss Him Goodbye is a light, descriptive read that gives you a glimpse into London's culture as well as a look into one girl's journey to be herself and live for God. It's definetly worth reading!

Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for sending me a copy of the book. The opinions in this review are my own.

Battling the Rip Tide

2010-11-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

“Are you ready to go?” you ask your roommates. You hear them say “Go ahead, we’ll be right there.” You take a step onto the hard, wooden floor outside of your hut-styled bungalow. You hear a howler monkey in the tree just above you, their screech like nails on a chalkboard. You start off on the path to the beach; you can smell the fresh scent of the palm trees surrounding you. You wave to your friend lounging in the kidney shaped pool; at seven a.m., you wonder what she’s doing in the pool. As if reading your thoughts, your roommate says, “She’s going to be safer in the pool than we are in the ocean.” Another roommate pipes in, “At least she has a lifeguard!” You realize your friend is right; no lifeguards would be at the beach this early in the morning. You think about her statement for a minute, and brush it off quickly, because the water was fine yesterday. “Yesterday there was a life guard” your conscience keeps telling you.

You forget it when you friend starts to run toward the beach. You taste the ocean breeze; you feel the cold sand between your toes. Realizing it is a haven for sand fleas, you run faster, leaving only your footprints behind. The water’s edge, like the edge of a canyon, is tempting you closer. You take a small step into the raging beast, and you can already tell this won’t be fun. The green, scratchy seaweed feels like sandpaper against your legs, and the sea is colder than the night before. Your friends are just ahead of you; and you feel the wet, squishy sand, between your toes. You duck down so a wave will wash through your hair; your friends are doing the same. You look to your right, your friends are about five feet away, but you don’t think much of it. You keep looking over at your friends, and fail to realize how far away they’re getting. You look back to the shore, and notice that all but one of your friends are already back on the shore, and you’re a lot farther out than you planned.

You turn around to go back because it’s not safe anymore; the cooing newborn has turned into a screaming toddler. You take a step, and go under the formidable waves. Now you start to panic, nothings there! You try and take a step again, and realize you are in a rip tide! “Don’t panic, don’t panic.” You coax yourself; even though it would be easier to find a penguin in Hawaii. You remember reading a book that said, “If you are ever caught in a rip tide, swim parallel to the beach.” You start to swim parallel to the beach and realize that it is to no avail. Your friend yells out to you, “Come back over here!” Exasperated, you look at her across the raging waves, and start screaming like a banshee. Of course, she can’t hear you over the roar of the waves. You can feel the salt stinging your eyes and nose. You cannot get back without someone’s help. You are treading the freezing cold water, and wishing you would’ve swam in the safe, lifeguarded pool. You keep drifting farther and farther from the shore, which is now a palace, fit for the finest of kings. You can see the gorgeous palm trees, the weather-worn driftwood, and even the road back to your bungalow.

Your friend makes her way over to you; you feel her cold, wet hand, much more like a prune after this long, torturous affair. Then, she starts to panic. Now both of you are screaming louder than the howler monkey, but your friends on the shore are too busy talking to hear you. Your arms give out like a limp noodle, but you still keep trying to make your way through the waves. The waves, as far as you’re concerned, are playing catch with you as the ball. You get about a foot towards the shore, when the rip tide pulls you back into the cruel waves, like a yo-yo on a string.

You start giving your farewell address to your friend, when you get an idea. Albert Einstein would’ve been proud of you. You could use your soaked t-shirt to propel you back to the shore. It works! Your t-shirt then becomes the only thing between you and the ghastly waves. Your t-shirt is using the once cruel waves to soar you back to the shore. When your friends finally take notice of you, they ask, “What took you so long? You feel the sudden urge to throw them into the rip tide, and then you would ask them “What took so long?” You start back the gravel path back to your hut. You decide to go swimming in the pool, only waist deep, just to be safe. The pool water is crisp and cool, yet warm. You just sit there for a while, and then join in with your friends.

After you get out of the pool, take a shower, and dry off, you decide to go and swing on the hammock. You feel the soft fabric against your skin, and hear the rain’s music against the roof. You hear your friends talking in the background, and you can see them sitting in the bungalow. Your friends just didn’t enjoy the rain as much as you; you loved the fresh, clean smell rain made when it dove into earth’s crust; and the feel of the raindrops on your skin. It sounded like a little girl hitting a xylophone ever so softly. You think perhaps you will read a book, but then decide to reflect on the day.

You think back to the beach, and how close you came to death, you are so relieved you decided it was time to go back when you did. What if you had kept going deeper and deeper? You realize you might be at the bottom of the ocean if you hadn’t felt the urge to go back. You know how a person can start wading into sin, and then go a little deeper, and deeper, until the sin swallows them. When they try to get back to God, it gets harder and harder because their sin just pulls them away. Usually, when someone realizes how deep they are in sin, it is too late to turn back. And that’s why Jesus came down to earth, and put himself into our sin, so that he could help us get out of it, even if it meant sacrificing His safety. You remember that He is the only way back to the Father, the only way out of our sin; without Him, we would still be battling the rip tide.

Join our Team!

2010-11-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

Do you love to write? Do you have an eye for fashion, a way with hair, a love of makeup, or a calling to share God’s love with others? Consider joining the Girls for God Team!

I’m looking for writers who want to put themselves “out there” into the online blogging community and gain experience and readership. It’s the perfect opportunity for you to share what you love. Share a favorite recipe, an embarrassing moment that taught you a lesson, or a guide to being active in your faith. If you’re good with a video camera, consider making a quality video tutorial showing how to create a subtle smoky eye or the best fashions for any shape and size. You’ll get hands-on experience and you’ll be a part of something great. You will be helping Girls for God spread our mission to energize the faith, fashion, and well-being of girls across the globe. Do you have another gift besides writing? Perhaps you could write a song and post a video of it, design an awesome logo or reinvent the blog’s look (if you’re a tech-savvy diva, that is).

The Good-to-Know Stuff: As a team member, you’ll be expected to update the blog with a quality post at least every other week, preferably every week. If we can assign certain days to certain people, that would be even better. You won’t get paid, but you’ll gain valuable experience, readership, and skills. We will work together as a team, contributing to the blog as best we can. You can also choose to promote the blog with whatever means you have (your own blog or website, Facebook, Twitter, word of mouth, etc.). If you’re good at web or graphic design, you do not have the same schedule as everyone else as we don’t need a new logo every week. :)

The Gotta-Know Stuff: If you’re interested and want more info, email me at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com . Feel free to ask questions. If you still want to pursue this, I will send you a quick application form to fill out and send to me. You should also prepare a sample of your work (writers would include an article or two, video savvies would post a link to one of your videos, etc.).

Work on our Website! We will also have a website running soon, so you can also choose to contribute articles or videos to that once it’s finished.

If you know someone who would be interested, please let them know about this opportunity!

Should You Wear Eyeliner?

2010-10-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

You don’t have to be Goth to appreciate what eyeliner can do. It can define your eyes, making them stand out and “pop”. It can give you the appearance of thick, dark lashes. But is that all it can do?
Don’t be fooled into thinking eyeliner is all good. It’s tempting when you start wearing it to put more and more on. But if you don’t apply it correctly, don’t use the right kind for you, and don’t ever leave the house without it, it has become a problem.
So should you wear eyeliner? The answer varies from person to person. Some people look great with a little eyeliner. Others just look fake. The last thing you want is someone coming up to you and saying you wear too much makeup (yes, it’s happened to me, and for a while I wore even more to show that I didn’t care). I created some basic guidelines to help you answer this question for yourself. Keep in mind that this advice isn’t written in stone – if you like a little heavy eyeliner, go for it. If you think you’d look better without it, that’s fine.

If you’re a brunette, you can wear eyeliner better than anyone else can, although it isn’t necessary. It doesn’t look too overpowering on you if you apply it correctly. Black or brown varieties will look great on you.

If you’re a blonde, you shouldn’t use too much eyeliner. Yes, it can make your eyes pop, but it can also look fake if you apply too much. There are other options besides black pencil eyeliner. You can use a gold pencil or dark eyeshadow and an eyeliner brush to for more natural looking lashes.

If you’re a redhead or auburn girl, you look best with very little makeup. If you must wear eyeliner, find a pretty golden brown and line your top lashes.

If you’re African-American, follow the same guidelines listed for brunettes, but remember that less is more and you should let your glowing skin take center stage.

Never Have a Bad Hair Day Again

2010-09-29T18:07:00.000-07:00

Even supermodels have bad hair days, so how can you ward off the floppy, flyaway, what-is-my-hair-DOING days? Here’s how to have a great hair day – every day!

Find a good shampoo that works for you…and stick with it. Your hair doesn’t “get used” to a product, so when you find one you love, keep using it. Sometimes bad hair days are a result of changing your shampoo routine too frequently or switching to a product that doesn’t agree with your hair.

Try using conditioner after you shampoo. By softening the hair and weighing it down a little, it can help tame flyaways. If your hair is very oily, only use it on the ends of your hair as a way to prevent split ends. If your hair is very dry or curly, try a leave-in conditioner that you use after your shower. Watch out: Too much conditioner can make your hair so soft and floppy that you won’t be able to do anything fun with it.

Buy a good hairspray to use when your style needs extra hold. Don’t put on too much, though, or your hair will be stiff and dull. If you wear contacts, close your eyes while you spray.

Give dirty hair a quick cleaning job by putting some baby powder on your brush and running it through your hair to soak up excess oil. When she was a teenager, my mom would get shampoo and wash just her bangs, which start looking greasy before the rest of your hair. If your bangs are clean, the rest of your hair will look a little cleaner, too.

Have a plan B. Whether you’re taking over the world or trying to convince your parents to extend your curfew, you should always have a backup plan if things go wrong. Sometimes you’re just not going to get the big curls you wanted, and you’ll be left with flat, messy hair. A cute hat, a high ponytail, or a chic messy bun are all lifesavers in situations like these.

Fall Fashion Trends 2010

2010-09-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

Many stylish ladies agree: fall is the best season for fashion. It takes a true fashionista to know what’s in and what’s not. Here are some of the hottest fall trends that will keep you on the best-dressed list.
Oxfords. These old-fashioned shoes aren’t just for your grandpa anymore. Whether they’re gray, brown, or black and white, Oxfords are the “it” shoe this fall, being featured in every ad campaign from Olsenboye to Marc Jacobs and everything in between. Wear them with anything and everything. They put a classic touch on any outfit.
Oversize cardigans. How do you transition your favorite summer blouse into winter or fall? Throw a cardigan over it! These soft, bulky open sweaters work well with almost any outfit. They instantly add a touch of chic and warmth to your wardrobe.
Neutrals. Designers and celebrities alike have ushered in the “neutral-on-neutral” trend. By layering neutrals together in the same outfit, you can create a chic, classy look that tells people you don’t try too hard and that great style just comes naturally to you.
Florals. “Florals for fall? Groundbreaking!” All Devil Wears Prada jokes aside, I’m happy to see spring’s florals pop up in fall runways this year.

Warm colors. “Well, DUH!” you say, and with good reason. It’s fall, so you should definitely bring out those cozy colors. (Girls with olive skin look especially amazing in these.)

High-waisted skirts. Spring’s chic skirts transition into fall-worthy wear with new accessories and other upgrades.

Baggy high-waisted shorts. Tuck your shirts into these cute things just like you would with a high-waisted skirt. In the colder days of fall, wear them with tights or leggings and a comfy coat for a big fashion statement.

Maxi skirts. Long skirts are bigger than ever this fall! It all started with last summer’s maxi dress trend. Miniskirts have had their day and it’s long passed. Cover up your legs and stroll the streets in style.

Hair accessories. We’ve seen a surge of hair accessory madness this year. Put on a hat, pin a big fake flower in your hair, or slip on a skinny headband with a little bow attached. The possibilities are endless and the look is so girly and cute.

New Blog Button!

2010-09-06T18:09:00.000-07:00

I won a contest (which is a miracle to be sure) and sweet Sophie over at Free to Be Me made me a beautiful blog button. I first stumbled upon her pretty little blog when I noticed I was getting some traffic due to a link to GFG on her site. Of course that made me love her right away.

Grab the blog button and put it on your site with a link to us (girls-4-god.blogspot.com) to show your support for our mission!

3 Fall Beauty Trends for 2010

2010-09-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

Normally, I don’t keep you updated with beauty trends because they are often outlandish and just plain ugly, but this fall will be a lovely season when it comes to your hair and makeup. Stylists have played with more wearable looks this fall so that you – yes, YOU! – can look like a fashion model without looking fake.

1. bedhead beauty In a rush? No worries! Messy hair is hot right now. It gives you to essence of natural, easy beauty. To follow this trend, keep your eye makeup light and focus on a clean face and lush lips.

2. ice princess Fall is typically the season for warm colors, but it seems that at least one stylist is more excited for winter. If you’re fair-complexioned, play up your porcelain skin with a clean, clear face, frosty lip gloss, and sparkly white eyeshadow. Apply the eyeshadow heavier on the inside corners of your eyes to make them appear bright and open. Be sure to pair this chilly look with a warm personality!

3. bare and beautiful What’s a foolproof way to get gorgeous? Wear natural makeup! After seeing tons of overdone divas, it’s refreshing to see a clean, glowing face and barely-there makeup. It’s a little-known fact that everyone can pull off the natural look because it embraces the beauty that God has given us! For this look, sweep some bronzer or pretty blush on your cheekbones, put some moisturizer or nude gloss on your lips, and finish it off with a light dust of brown or brown-black mascara to give a little definition to your gorgeous eyes.

Beauty Tip #291

2010-08-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

3 Hot Nail Trends for Fall 2010

2010-08-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

Forget the chipped pink polish you've been wearing since fifth grade. This season's biggest nail trends are chic, unique, and perfect for the style-savvy gal.

1. Neutral nails give your manicure a makeover with sophisticated shades of grown-up colors. Think camel, mud, dove, and minx -- names that don't look good on paper but will leave you super stylish in a cinch.

2. Lacy laquer is a interesting, hip way to glam up your nails. You can try other embellishments as well, like rhinestones or glitter, as long as you don't go overboard.

3. Rocker-glam glitter is all the rage. But instead of your usual flecks of sparkle, models are setting the trend with big, chunky pieces of glitter to add some hardcore drama to any diva's look.

Would you wear any of this season's fierce nail trends?

2010-08-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

Jillian read What to Pack on a Trip and sent me a photo of her on vacation looking absolutely beautiful. Check out her GFG guest post on purity and true love here.

Want to be feautured on the blog? Send your name and a photo of yourself in a cute outfit to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com !

Back to School Fashion

2010-08-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? Summer is almost over! Don’t let the new school year sneak up on you. Go back to school in style with Girls for God.
You’ve probably heard this before, but while you’re in school, your education should be your main focus. Don’t let your clothing choices distract you (or your friends) from their work. Distracting clothes include words scrawled across the back of your pants, low-cut or too-tight shirts, miniskirts, short shorts, and crazy colorful outfits. It’s a good idea to check with school guidelines to see what’s allowed and what’s not in terms of clothing. You wouldn’t want to be sent home on your first day because your shoes don't fit the dress code!
If you’re luckier than I am (my high school has uniforms), then you will probably want to do some back-to-school shopping with your mom. Choose modest clothes that are comfortable and express your sense of style. (You’ll feel less out-of-place if you’re happy with what you’re wearing.) A good pair of close-toed shoes is a must. You’ll also want some sneakers for gym class.
Clothes that are pretty but aren’t too tight, short, or thin are great for school. It’s a good idea to stick with the 2-3 Color Rule, which I’ll discuss later, when putting together an outfit, especially one you’ll wear in class. A nice dark-washed pair of jeans are a necessity, as are solid-color tees.
When it comes to accessories, try not to pile on your jewelry, hair clips, and scarves. Simple, minimalist accessories will look much better and will make you feel more free to move around. (Imagine gym class with big earrings, chunky bangle bracelets, and a scarf around your neck. Not fun.)
While you don't want to be distracting, you don't want to be boring, either. Let your clothes be an expression of your individual style! People judge by appearances before anything else, so dress to impress.

Got amazing back-to-school style? Snap a pic of you in your favorite school outfit and send it to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com for a chance to appear on the blog or newsletter!

Purity and True Love, A Guest Post by Jillian

2010-08-13T18:05:00.000-07:00

I have a small, hot pink, leather bound journal hidden in a box somewhere underneath my bed. In my first entry, I am 11 years old. The particular entry that comes to mind is dated May 10th, 2006. In fact, I remember writing it as if it was yesterday.
I was curled up between my bed and the wall, which in my 12 year old mind was the perfect place to read.
I had just finished reading the last page of a popular christian pop singer's autobiography, during which she mentioned how wonderful it felt kissing her boyfriend, but that she knew she wouldn't go further. When she wrote that book, she was 17 years old.
I had this sick feeling deep in my stomach. Disappointment. I looked up to this popular singer as a role model, and she had, in my opinion, let me down. Sure, she wasn't Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, or any other so-called "role models" that were pushed on my generation. No, in comparison, she was squeaky clean. But as a Christian, I felt that the bar had been dramatically lowered.

THE PROMISE
I tore out this little journal, and wrote in my haphazard handwriting, "I promise myself I will NEVER kiss or have sex with a guy until I'm married." And just for emphasis I whipped out a highlighter and went over it several times.
The most ironic thing happened though. The rest of that journal is practically filled with gushing about a guy I knew I couldn't tell my friends about. A guy I was obsessed with for years. One of my former best friends.
See, I think that what happened to me has happened to so many Christian teenage girls. Everyone tells us about keeping our bodies pure. They put so much emphasis on it. And believe me, I know how important that is. But I think the deeper issue is keeping our hearts pure before God.
When I was fourteen years old, my mom brought me to a conference where a lady was talking about emotional purity. I listened, and I smiled and nodded. But in my head I really thought, "Give up crushes? ARE YOU SERIOUS?" See, I found that to actually be fun.
And to be honest, sometimes it is. Sometimes you'll be with your friends, and they will be talking about the latest cute guy, and you'll go along without thinking: "Is there a consequence to this?" And I've found out, there most definitely is.
It gets to your head, and slowly you make a habit of liking someone based on trivial things, such as appearance, or sweet things they did. You slowly lower your standards. It almost always leads to flirting, and flirting I've found to be addictive. Believe me, I know how harmless it seems. It's just fun, you think. I've built up quite a bit of regret in my 16 years on this planet, a lot of it relates to how I've treated the guys in my life.
Just to clear this up, it is not love. It is a "How can you make me happy so I can have an instant confidence boost?" type of selfish gratification.

TRUE LOVE
You want to know what true love is?
True love is something that lasts years and years. True love is my grandfather visiting my grandmother every single day, rain or shine while she was in the hospital. The doctor asked him if he ever went home. He looked the doctor straight in the eye, patted my Nana's knee and said "This is my home".
Love isn't some butterflies in your stomach, or the smiles you exchange. Love is something far deeper.
So how can I give this love, you might be wondering.
It's actually quite simple. God is the author of love. I know most of you already know John 3:16, but it will never stop having such a powerful meaning to me."God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in him shall be saved".
See, love isn't something new. Love has been around forever. So, wouldn't it make sense to go to the source of that love? If love is something that concerns you, I urge you to give it to our savior. Say, "God, here is the thing, I really need your help, because…" and explain your situation to him. He created you, and knows exactly what you need, and wants you to have it more than you do. He will also help you keep your mind pure. Because he loves you. Love that never fails. Beat that.

This is a guest post by Jillian. Check out her blog, Paper Tigers and Me, here.

What to Pack for a Trip

2010-08-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

Going on vacation? You can always tell the tourists from the locals by how they dress and how they always look a little lost and unprepared. Fit in like one of the locals with this guide! You can adjust this packing list to suit your needs, tweaking it so that it can work for a week-long vacation or a three-day road trip. You should also consider the weather conditions of your travel destination. With these tips on what to pack for a trip of any length, you won't have that feeling that you're forgetting something!

CLOTHES

Choose tops that are comfortable so you have to worry about riding in a plane or car in something hot, tight, or itchy. Select shirts that can be dressed up or down so you can be prepared for anything. Shirts that are meant to be worn with a matching vest or jacket will just take up extra space in your suitcase.
Choose bottoms that are equally as comfortable and coordinate with many of your tops -- nothing too flashy or outlandish. A nice pair of jeans will work perfectly and can be dressed up or down, especially if they are dark-colored. Don't forget to pack shorts if you're going someplace hot. Plan on reusing your bottoms at least once during the trip since they usually won't get as dirty as your shirts.
If you're going somewhere nice, a modest, pretty dress would be a good idea. A sundress will work well as anything voluminous will take up too much space in your suitcase. You could also pack a little black dress for extra special occasions.
Don't forget to pack pajamas. Hotel rooms are always either too warm or too cold, so choose pajamas that are comfortable in any weather.

ACCESSORIES

Comfortable shoes are a must. Skip the Uggs and try some chic boots for cold-weather climates or pretty sandals where it's sunnier. Flip flops don't add to your outfit at all, so it's a good idea to wear them only around the pool or beach. Don't even think about bringing Crocs.
Don't overdo it with your jewelry. Leave your good jewelry at home so it won't get lost or stolen. A simple necklace will work just fine and will give you a pretty look without making you look overdone. You can plan on wearing more jewelry if you're going someplace fancy, like the opera or a four-star restaraunt.
Scarves are cute, but they'll get annoying when traveling in hot places. Save them for winter trips.
Pack a cute, modest swimsuit. If you're going on a cruise, even in cool weather, you'll want to have one on hand. Hotels often have indoor pools, so you should make a point of packing one just in case.
A camera is always a must.

MAKEUP

You should keep your makeup light during travel, especially if you're going someplace hot. Hours of driving or flying can really take a toll on how you feel, and having layers of heavy makeup will make you feel even worse. Mascara, lip balm, and compact powder and a little pink blush should work well, keeping your skin fresh and non-oily, as well as softening your lips, defining your eyes, and giving you a warm glow. Sweeping a little blush across your cheeks will make you look less tired. Waterproof mascara, though notorious for drying out your lashes, would be a good idea. Keep your makeup in a makeup bag and any liquids should be slipped into plastic bags in case they break. If you're traveling by plane, paying the carry-on luggage fee will ensure that your luggage doesn't get thrown around, causing makeup bottles to crack and leak.
Be sure to bring any toiletries you'll need. Sunblock is a must if you'll be spending any time outside. (For a little blemish-coverage, try a tinted sunblock with an SPF of at least 15.)

Send a photo of you on vacation and send it to me at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com for a chance to appear in the blog!

Going on a plane ride? Check out Melissa Renee's guide on what to wear to an airport.

Are Scarves Still "In" for Fall 2010?

2010-08-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

Scarves have been around for decades, but last year we were blown away by their popularity. A reader asked me if scarves will still trending for fall 2010, so I did some research and came up with an answer....

YES! While not as huge as last year, scarves are still popular and you should definetly stock up. You can get all different kinds, from knit to silk, stripes to solids, in all sorts of colors. Find them everywhere from Target to H&M, Wal-Mart to Sam Moon. They are the accessory this year.

Stay tuned for more on scarves!

Found: A Handmade High-Waisted Skirt

2010-08-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

I just had to show off this beautiful skirt that my friend Rebecca made. It’s light blue, high-waisted (which is so “in” right now and timelessly chic), and long enough to pass the modesty check without being so long you don’t know what to do with it. Rebecca is this really artsy, sweet, hilarious girl who is an inspiration junkie just like me (yay!).
Here comes the best part…it’s only $15!! I know, right? Only $15 for a handmade awesomely cute skirt. You should definetly head over to Rebecca’s etsy shop to snatch it up before someone else does!
(If you do buy it, send me a photo of you wearing it to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com . You could be feautured on the blog for your excellent taste! *wink*)

Dear Melissa: (Modest) Little Black Dress

2010-08-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Q: “I’m going on a cruise to sunny Florida. There’s a dining room on the ship that’s very formal. Where can I find some modest, stylish black dresses, and the shoes and accessories to go with them?” – Maggie

A: Thanks for asking, Maggie! The little black dress should be a staple in every girl’s wardrobe, but it can be very hard to find one that is both modest and fashionable and one that reflects your personal style. It took a lot of research, but it is possible to find beautiful dresses that don't show too much skin.

It’s a basic rule of real-world fashion that your clothing should have balance, and this applies to black dresses as well. This means if the dress is a little short and sleeveless, you can balance it with a high neckline. Pair this with a fitted waist and you have a classic, timeless look that’s been mastered by fashion icons for decades.

I searched all over Forever 21 but could not find a modest (and non-cheapy) black dress to save my life, so I turned to Modcloth. I found slightly better luck here although they are pretty pricy compared to F21. (The dresses featured in this post are from here.)

As for accessories, pearls look amazing with formal wear. Faux pearls will work just as well as real ones. When it comes to shoes, it’s all up to you. If you’re not into sky-high strappy heels, try something with a sleek low heel. If you can’t see yourself wearing something like that, a nice pair of flats will work just fine.

When it comes to makeup and hair, do something chic and beautiful that you wouldn’t normally do. You can try curling your hair and then sweeping it into a pretty up-do or just let it hang loose and shiny down your back. Be sure to wear mascara so your face isn’t overpowered by the black dress.

You can also check out this older post on little black dresses here.

Giveaway Scout

2010-08-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love blog giveaways? I was contacted by Josh Healy of Giveaway Scout and thought I'd share a word about their service to you, as well as a quick note about future giveaways here.

Giveaway Scout posts a list of many blog giveaways on their site, as well as offering an optional newsletter to let you know about new giveaways. If you have a blog and host giveaways, you can submit it to their site for free publicity.

This has gotten me excited about giveaways again! If you would like to host a giveaway with me, please let me know at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com .

Can Smoking Give You Acne?

2010-08-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

The news on smoking just keeps getting worse. You may have heard that smoking leads to premature death, lung cancer, and other problems. But did you know that it can also affect the way you look?
Smoking can give you dull skin and hair, early wrinkles, a deeper raspy voice, bad breath, and yellow teeth, but that's not all. A report in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology finds that smokers have more acne, which will continue into the adult years.
Of the adult women studied, a whopping 72.9% of acne sufferers were smokers. Even more interesting, researchers found a positive correlation between the number of cigarettes smoked and the severity of the acne.
If the health risks weren't enough, the toll on your looks is just another reason to steer cleer of cigarettes (and peers who might tempt you to try them).

What to Wear in an Airport

2010-07-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

Going on a trip? Dressing for long plane rides isn’t usually a fun task, but with these guidelines, GFG will get you in the air in no time.

• Clothes. If you’re dressed in a way that says you’re cool and prepared, you’ll feel that way, too, so absolutely no sweats or PJ’s. Many girls make the mistake of wearing jeans – the right pair are very stylish but may not be comfortable for long flights when you must sit in place for seven hours. Instead, try some comfy black leggings (I got my long ones from Wal-Mart for $10) or, if you prefer the blue-jean look, try jeggings (leggings designed to look like skinny jeans). As for shirts, a soft lightweight cardigan over a modest tank is comfy, chic, and will work in most climates. (If you’re going to someplace very hot, skip the cardigan and wear a solid-color shirt instead. If you’re going someplace cold, wear a heavier cardigan.)

• Shoes. Even Lady Gaga knows sky-high heels aren’t fun in an airport. Please, please, PLEASE don’t wear Uggs, Crocs, or flip-flops, either. Those items are for wearing around the house, not for wearing in public. Leaving your Uggs at home may break your teenage heart, but when you’re thirty, you’ll thank me for breaking the news to you that they aren’t all that attractive (plus, they’re bad for your feet and can cause foot problems if you wear them a lot). What shoes will work for the airport? Many women opt for sneakers, but then they hold up the line by having to untie and retie the laces after going through customs. The best shoes for air travel have always been a great pair of flats. They’re more comfortable than heels, quicker through customs than boots or tennis shoes, and are a classic way to complete your look.
• Jewelry. Keep jewelry to a minimum when flying. A simple necklace will be just fine. These items can show up in metal detectors (meaning you have to stop, take them off, then put them back on) so it’s not the best accessory in this case. Loads of jewelry can also be uncomfortable and out of place inside an airplane. It's a basic rule of thumb to leave your good jewelry at home so it won't get stolen. If you must have accessories, try a scarf that goes with your outfit.
• Makeup. Keep your makeup simple and tasteful. During and after a flight, you’re tired, sore, and probably feel gross (from the stale air and even staler food, no doubt). This feeling is called jet-lag. Having jet-lag and a pile of hot makeup on your face isn’t pretty. Just wear a good mascara, a pretty lip gloss, and a little pink blush on your cheeks so you won’t look so gray after your flight. If you’re worried about shine control, dab some oil-absorbing translucent powder on your face from your handy-dandy compact.

Wondering what to pack for a trip? Click here to see Melissa Renee's packing guide for the travel-savvy girl.

Lancome Lipgloss Freebie

2010-07-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves free makeup, right? While supplies last, you can get a free tube of Lancome So Teen Vogue lipgloss online. Here's what to do:

1. Click here and select a lipgloss in your favorite shade.

2. Click "Add to Cart".

3. Go to your "Shopping Cart" and look at your purchase. You'll have the lipgloss you selected (which is a whopping $18).

4. Enter "TEENVOGUE" into the promotion code box.

5. You'll see an added free lipgloss in your shopping cart.

6. Continue with purchase.

Ta-da, you got a free lipgloss and one $18 lipgloss, which means you're paying $9 for each high-end lipgloss.

Dressing for Your Body Type: Long Torsos

2010-07-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

When it comes to looking good, the goal is to play up your assets and play down any areas that you don’t like. With a long torso like yours, your legs are probably shorter in proportion to the rest of your body. The illusion of longer legs will balance your figure.

Girls with your body type don’t look good in capris or crop pants because they cut a straight line across your legs. If you wear shorts, go for styles that fall at your mid-thigh rather than knee-length styles as long as you make sure your shorts aren’t too short.

Since most clothing today is made for girls with perfect silhouettes and long legs, you may have a hard time finding clothes that fit you. Blouses may be too short and pants may be too long and loose at the hips. It’s a good idea to learn how to do basic alterations on your clothing, such as hemming pants. If you aren’t the sewing type, pay someone else to do it for you. Alterations should be made to make your clothes fit you perfectly.

What styles look best on you? To balance your proportions, look for feminine silhouettes like sarong-style skirts, A-line skirts, wrap skirts, and wide-legged pants, as long as they are not baggy. Pants and skirts with high waistlines (which is very chic right now) will make your legs look longer. Long trousers covering the tops of your shoes will also give the illusion of longer legs, especially if you wear heels. As for jackets, find shorter styles that end just below your waist or styles that go past your hips and shy away from jackets that end in the middle of your rear.

As for shirts, leave them un-tucked. Empire lines, with the waistband just below your chest, are a great way to disguise the length of your torso. A-line garments also draw attention away from your waist. Wide necklines and flowing tops will also distract eyes from your waist. A shorter top paired with a long skirt or pants will balance you out. I’ve mentioned layering before as a modest way to flatter your shape, and I’ll say it again. Layering your tops will break up your upper body. Trés chic!
You can experiment with different looks to find exactly what you like. Wide belts look best on girls with your body type. Pants and skirts with interesting waistbands or adornment look great on you because they make your waist look shorter and your legs appear longer. If you like embroidery, try stitching some pretty details on your clothing.
Your jewelry, hair, and makeup can also make a difference. Draw attention up to your face with a chic new haircut, tastefully-applied makeup and pretty jewelry, like a fantastic necklace or pair of earrings. It will be a whole new you!
The most important way to balance yourself? Keep your eyes on the great things about your body, such as your enviable blonde hair or your sparkling blue eyes, and remember that no matter what you wear, you have a gorgeous God-given figure!

DIY Fabric Scrap Earrings

2010-07-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

While searching for blog-worthy inspiration online, I found a cool idea I just had to share with you.
You can make these to match any outfit, and change them to look however you want. Try using different shapes, big or small, heart or teardrop. Experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and colors for a unique look. It's so easy and cheap and you-nique!

YOU'LL NEED:

4 small scraps of matching fabric
Earring loops -- get 100 for a couple bucks at your local craft store
Scissors
Hole puncher

1. Cut 2"x2" squares in the fabric.

2. Punch a hole in the fabric.

3. Layer two fabric squares on top of one another, lining up the holes. Slip the fabric squares onto an earring attachment.

This tutorial can be found at http://diyfashion.about.com/od/diyjewelrymaking/ss/ScrapEarrings_1.htm

10 Ways to be a Role Model

2010-07-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, you're a role model for younger girls. Here are some steps to get you "on a role"!

1. Spend time with kids. You’ll hone in on your babysitting (and parenting) skills and will probably end up having a blast and making a difference in a child’s life.

2. Be an encourager. God wants us to build people up and add value to others.

3. Use kind words. Think before you speak. If something you want to say could hurt someone, don’t say it.

4. Give generously. God wants you to give with a joyful heart and help His kingdom.

5. Respect adults. I know it’s tough, especially when they’re being unfair, but if you show them respect, chances are they’ll do the same for you.

6. Follow through on your word. When you say you’ll do something, do it.

7. Dress modestly – wear clothes that cover you.

8. Say “thank you”. Everyone deserves a little gratitude.

9. Volunteer. Plugging into your community can change the world. Get involved at your local animal shelter or offer to tutor kids who struggle in an area you’re good at.

10. Be honest. Lying is easy, but honesty will keep you on firm ground.

Gab It: Why is YOUR dad the BEST dad?

2010-06-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

Project Gab It Question of the Month:
Why is your dad the best dad?
Send your first name, age, and answer to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com and label your email "Gab It!"

Taylor Swift's Dresses

2010-05-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

Two posts in one day...WOW! I know that some of you had asked about Taylor Swift dresses. I was excited about working on this topic but the information I was able to find was outdated, from 2009. Taylor did design a chic line of L.E.I dresses exclusively for Walmart, saying she wanted dresses that she would wear at prices every girl could afford. Sadly, you cannot purchase these at the moment. However, you may be able to find some online deals or do some bargain shopping for Taylor's sundresses.

Build Your Own Swimsuit from $10

2010-05-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

Looking for a new swimsuit? I'm always on the lookout for new modest swimwear, so I was really pumped when I saw that Newport News had a "build your own bikini from $10". Of course, I'm no fan of bikinis, but I decided to take a look since it was such a great deal.
You choose your top -- bikini, tankini, halter, or strapless. Then you choose a bottom - bikini, skirt, or shorts. Lastly, you choose a pattern and view your look on a model.
While there were tankinis, some of them were low cut, but none were explicitly immodest because Newport News makes clothing for real women (and most real women don't want everything on display). Most of the tops don't completely cover your hips, either.
So, stop by the Newport News Swimwear Department and tell me what you think. I'd love to hear your opinions.

Check it Out: Stylish Blogs

2010-05-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

I love blogs. I love my blogs, my friend's blogs...any blogs. Especially when they're about beauty and fashion and any of that awesome visual eye-candy stuff you know you love. So here it is, a list of some stylish blogs I've visited recently and what I have to say about them! (Think YOUR blog should make this list? I'll do more blog features later, so post the link in the comments. Please keep it beauty/fashion/faith related.)

AmandaBeth Online - This is such a cool blog! She writes about everything style-related, from fashion and home decorating to old-world movie stars (and the occassional and fun "trends I hate" feature). Amanda Flynn's fashion sense is centered on modesty and classic styles. My only complaint is that her fashion sometimes seems to be a little too classic (if that's possible) or old-fashioned...but then she'll throw in something amazing to prove me wrong. She mixes writing and photos effortlessly. A great read, and somehow goes really well with tea.

What I Wore - What a cute blog! Full of pictures of the writer in everyday (chic) clothes, and so many comments my eyes bugged out of my head. A tinge of jealousy perhaps? A great eye-candy, browse through on a lazy day sort of blog.

DistricT of FashioN - This girl has a serious sense of style. Pairing a maxi dress with a blazer, showing off some great $10 fashion, and keeping her clothes hip and fresh is what this girl's all about. Not much text but lots of pictures of her modeling her outfits. Plus, she loves Forever 21 (which is another reason why I love her!).

Bramblewood Fashion - This blog showcases the writer's sewing (mostly skirts and dresses, I believe) and her conservative, old-fashioned romantic style (full of frills and pink!). Plus, she's a reader (and she commented! LOVE that!) so therefore she is awesome and you should drop by this blog to say hello.

Rapunzel's Resource - A simple tutorial-style blog filled with styles for long hair. She features mostly updos, buns, historical, and vintage styles, so it may look outdated or too old-fashioned, but that's not always a bad thing! You can modernize them to suit your style. The best part? She starts each post with a Bible verse. You go, girl!

If you have or read a stylish blog, let me know and I'll put it up here!

Dear Melissa: Makeup for olive skintones?

2010-05-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

I have dark hair, brown eyes, and olive skin. What makeup advice can you give me?

The great thing about your features is that you can look great with or without makeup. You can go without and let your bold features and natural beauty do the talking, or you can pretty things up with some great mascara and a good lip gloss.

Take a good look at your skin. You say you have an olive complexion, like me. If you look carefully, you can see little hints of olive, brown, russet, and gold all smoothed perfectly into your skin. God designed every inch of that beautiful face, so let's make the best of it!

The idea here is to take the natural earthy colors that are already blended into your skin and use them in your makeup. Think warm, rustic colors like rust, olive, and chocolate. Of course, you're very lucky -- brown eyes go with almost all colors -- so feel free to have fun and break the mold! I like trying a little blue or green in the summer and a soft smoky eye in winter. Try new things and don't go overboard.

I consulted a Covergirl makeup consultant for some extra advice. She suggested that you: "Extend sparkly eyeshadow across your eyelids, apply eyeliner and mascara, line lips carefully and blot, and finish with matching lip gloss." She also suggests CG Eye Enhancers 3-Kit Shadows in Shimmering Sands or Dance Party for your skin tone.

YOUR BASIC MAKEUP BAG:

Black mascara. It was made for you. If you still don't feel comfortable with this, go for brown-black.
Plum lip gloss. It looks great on everyone.
Black eyeliner (optional). Use just a little bit on the outer corners of your eyes (no wings) to make them instantly pop!
Natural eyeshadow. Brown, neautral, olive, and a little plum or dark pink. Rust is also good, but not with the plum or pink.
Extra eyeshadow (optional). Blue, green, or purple.

Congrats! Giveaway Winner!

2010-05-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

The winner of the earring giveaway from Emariecreations is Lyn from Japan! Thanks to all the girls who participated and promoted the blog, and extra super-duper thanks to Emariecreations!

Cadia Magazine Interview [part2]

2010-05-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

Cadia is an online magazine for Christian teen girls. Find out where the editor stands on God, dating, beauty, and more in Part 2 of the interview.

Why is it important to keep God at the forefront of your life?

To me, its important to keep God at the forefront of my life because I strive to follow Him. I am such a sinner who tries to go get off the path God has made for me that I look to Him during that time of need. God helps me and leads me back onto the path.

What are your thoughts on dating?
I think before you begin dating you should pray and ask God when is the right time for you to start dating. When you have gone out with multiple guys through out junior high and highschool, you have given a little piece of your heart to each of them weither you know it or not. It's so easy after you are married to turn back to one of those relationships during a time of stress to remember the "good old days" because those guys still have a peice of your heart. I am praying, and even through the temptation of watching girls my age go out with guys, I am determined to save my whole heart for the guy God wants me to marry.

What do you think about makeup?
These days, make up is used as a cover to take care of "flaws", pimples, blackheads, etc.To me, if you are wearing makeup as a cover or you think you aren't pretty when you don't wear make up, you are using it for the wrong reason. Make up should be worn to enhance the natural beauty God gave to you. I can tell when girls are using it as a cover up and when girls are using it to enhance natural beauty. It makes make up so much prettier when you wear it to enhance natural beauty!

What’s the greatest thing God has done in your life?
What a tough question! It would have to be giving me an amazing family! I love my parents and my little brother. We have had so many amazing experiences and if their is a disagreement of some sort it is always worked out in an organized way. I love that my parents are a role model to me in my faith and that my parents are so honest about what they are struggling with in their faith. I hope my faith can be as strong as theirs one day!

What’s been your biggest struggle in life?
My biggest stuggle in life has been jealousy. I am so jealous of the girls who have the personality that makes everyone laugh and the girls who can walk into a room and instantly start talking and making friends. Even though I am extremely bubbly around my friends, I am some times shy around new people until you get me talking.

How do you keep your prayer time interesting?
I am going to be completely honest, before I started making my prayer time interesting I had to force myself to pray because I "didn't feel like" or "didn't have the time." So I found something to make me more interested in praying and now I am am constantly doing this. I started a prayer journal which is basically like a journal just between you and God. I love to write, so this was perfect for me. It allows me to get my thoughts down on paper and I even doodle little things on the sides like "Lovin' my Jesus" or "Child of the Lord 4 ever".

If there’s one thing you’ve learned in life, it’s:
That when you have been working really hard on your relationship with Christ and you start feeling farther away from Him, it's because your relationship with Him has gotton stronger. I was working so hard on my relationship with the Lord and just kept feeling farther from Him. It's funny how God works because that day during Bible class my teacher said that when you have been working on your relationship with Him and feel farther away from Him, your relationship is getting stronger. Let me explain, when you want to get closer to God, don't you work on particular areas of your life? Well, once you start getting those down (of coarse it will never be perfect :) ) Christ has you identify more areas in your life you need to work on, which means you feel farther from Him. He is doing this because He knows what you are capible of, and you just have to step up to the plate.

How can GFG readers support your mission?
GFG readers can support Cadia by praying for us. We always welcome prayer!

How can GFG readers subscribe to the e-magazine for free?
If you want to subscribe to Cadia, the free online Christian girls magazine, just e-mail us at cadiamagazine@gmail.com telling us you want to subscribe.

If you could say one thing to teen girls everywhere, what would it be?
With God, anything is possible

Beauty/Fashion Q&A

2010-05-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

I am starting my own beauty/fashion column in Cadia Magazine. It will be primarily a Q&A thing, so I need YOU to send me all your beauty/fashion questions at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com . Label your email "Beauty Question" or "Fashion Question". Thanks girls! - MELISSA

Swimdresses

2010-05-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

Different people have different modesty standards, just like different people have different bodies. If you're plus sized, self concious, or simply want a more modest alternative to other swimwear (including those I've featured), here is about as far as you can go modestly without sacrificing style in the process.

Comfortable, breezy, and slimming, this swimwear from BecomingSwimdress.com will keep you covered and confident at the pool. They come in several styles and look attractive in both the front and back. Say goodbye to baggy modest swimwear that looks more like ugly clothes and say hello to these pretty water dresses!
While I prefer my tankinis, if your modesty standards are higher for yourself, then you should definetly check these out.

Need-to-Know News!

2010-05-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some important updates for May.

Remember the interview with Cadia Magazine? Part 2 will be coming up this month!
Speaking of Cadia, I am now an official writer for the online e-magazine! Be sure to subscribe so you can catch me there every month! {Look for articles by Melissa Renee ;) }
Don't forget to enter our giveaway! Your entries must be recieved by the end of this week!
Be sure to get a cute (and modest) swimsuit from my favorite swimsuit line for the summer.
I am working on a new website as a companion to the blog. It will be a while before it's up, since I'm doing it by myself, but it's time to get excited!
If you signed up for the GFG e-newsletter but did not recieve the May issue, please resend your subscription request to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com . (And if you haven't subscribed yet, do it now!)
Project Gab It launches today! (What's that? Check out the May newsletter.) Be sure to send an answer to the promt on the sidebar to girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com and label your email "Gab It!"

Cute Stuff I Found Today...

2010-05-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday mornings are my days to sleep in, sip a Coke, reread Twilight, work on my blogs, and shop online. OK, so maybe it's more like window shopping. I don't usually buy things online (I like to try on clothes in a store to make sure they look good on me; this and the fact that I'm too cheap to pay for shipping.) However, I do look for tons of inspiration online. Yes, I am an inspiration-holic, if those even exist.

Today I (literally) stumbled upon an amazing teal dress for Modcloth.com . The cut and length are just right, it's modest, comfortable, and it's a great color. It looks best on average-sized and petite girls since it gives you some girly figure even if you don't have one. The belt, Missselfridge.com, comes separately. The barettes, Franceluxe.com, are cheap and cute, the lipgloss (Ulta.com) is a pretty pink, and green eyeshadow (Urbandecay.com) is the most flattering shade of eye makeup.

Emariecreations Earring Giveaway!

2010-04-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

Our first giveaway ever! Win 1 free pair of handmade earrings from the Emariecreation's Etsy shop! Be sure to thank for for this opportunity by purchasing something for a friend as well! Don't forget to check out her blog, The Frosted Button. We will do a feature on her later.

HOW TO WIN:

Post about the giveaway on your blog (and provide a link to this post).
Post a link to Girls for God on your blog's sidebar.
Post a comment with your email address, first name, blog url (so I can see your post) and which earrings you would like (remember you get 1 pair, and please be specific about your choice).

IF YOU WIN, you will be notified by me during the 2nd week of May, so check your email! You will also be featured on the blog. I will ask for your home address through email if you win so Emariecreations can send you your earrings. No one else will be given your address. If you do not respond to my the win-confirmation email within a week, a new winner will be chosen.

IF YOU DON'T FOLLOW EACH STEP CORRECTLY, you will not win.

ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECIEVED by May 6.

Cadia Magazine Interview [part1]

2010-04-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

It all started with one girl's dream to make a "place of peace" for teen girls. Now the editor and creator of Cadia Magazine sits down with me to share her passion, vision, and her message for teen girls.

Why did you choose the name “Cadia”?
I chose the name Cadia while looking up different names online. I didn't have any luck so I thought it might be fun to look up words on a translator to see what they meant in different languages. One things that popped up after I typed in peace was the word "arcadia" which means "a place of peace." I went to Google and typed in "arcadia" and found places with the name "Cadia". I loved the name, so that's what I decided to name the magazine.

What prompted you to make an online magazine for teen girls?
I have always loved writing. From making family newspapers, newletters, and I have even started mini magazines included one that my friends and I wrote for a little while called Girls Rule. So one day during Bible class our teacher asked us to make a list of 5 things we wanted to accomplish while we were teenagers and the first answer on my list was to make a magazine. From there, I started planning out the magazine and getting the word out.

What challenges have you faced so far regarding the magazine?
I have never done page layout and design on a professional program like what we are using. So it has been a major frustration trying to figure it out and get my creative juices running. Many times I have felt like giving up and calling it quits, but then I remember, this magazine is in God's hands and we are doing this magazine for His honor and glory! That fact, that we are doing this magazine for Him keeps me going.

In what ways have you already seen God work through your idea?
God has worked through the magazine in so many ways already! In three days He provided us with 10 staff members, He has provided many different girls and ladies to help us design blog buttons, He has given us almost 300 subscribers, and so much more! It's amazing watching God working through our ministry and we can't wait to watch it unfold more.

Why should young women strive to be modest?

Young women should strive to be modest for many reasons. This answer can also go along with purity. We don't want the way we dress to give guys the wrong idea or be a stumbling block for them. Another reason we should strive to be modest is because in the Bible it says for us to do everything for the honor and glory for the Lord Jesus Christ. How are we giving God honor and glory when we aren't dressed modestly?

What do you consider to be your biggest passion in life?
I have found that I have a huge love for telling others about Christ even if they are already Christians. It gives me an indiscribable feeling when I write something or say something and someone tells me that it helped them learn more about Christ. My newest passion though, is Christian girls magazines. There is such a huge potential to tell others about Him through these magazines and to tell others about Him though Christian magazines.

What does beauty mean to you?
When I read this question, I imediatly thought of inner beauty. To God, it's whats on the inside that matters. True beauty is the beauty inside and that's all that really matters. :)

Stay tuned for Part 2!

Hot Summer Swimwear that Covers You

2010-04-13T17:39:00.000-07:00

I must confess -- I am in love...with a modest clothing company! Can you believe it? I mean, I'm not a prude or a member of the modesty police, so this was a big surprise for me at least. Diviine Modestee effortlessly combines style and modesty in a way that most modest clothing companies do not. I'm in love with their swimwear collection, Divinita Sole, and I think you will be, too. So here it is -- this summer's hottest (and modest) swimwear from Diviine Modestee.

PERKS:

DM's tankinis cover you -- minimal or no clevage.
These swimsuits are gorgeous -- way cuter than any you can find in department stores.
They come in fun colors, styles, and prints.
You can mix and match!
They tell you what pieces will work for your body and which won't.

Design your perfect swimsuit.

Learn what styles suit your body shape.

Pretty Top for Petite Bodies Under $10

2010-04-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

I found this chic top at Forever 21 for only $9.50! The ruffled collar, as well as the draw-in under the bust, give beautiful shape to petite bodies. Curvy girls, however, might look a little too voluminous in this.

Giant Pimple? Makeup Artists to the Rescue!

2010-04-08T16:20:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, DO NOT attempt to pop a zit, says Dara Klein, a New York City makeup artist. "Squeezing and digging at it will only irritate the skin, making it harder to cover up the spot with makeup." If you can't book an emergency appointment with your dermatologist for a cortisone injection, try this quick fix: Wrap an ice cube in a thin dish towel and rest it on the bump for a few minutes to take down the swelling and redness. To cover the pimple, apply foundation, then use a synthetic brush to tap on concealer. Finish by setting everything in place with loose powder, says Klein.

Alice in Wonderland Jewelry

2010-04-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Look of the Day: Denim & Pastels

2010-03-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

Marissa's Story

2010-03-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say I was an “all-American girl.” I had an awesome family – we had the best time and really loved each other. I was good at pretty much everything I tried…except sports. I’m not exactly the most coordinated! But academics were never a problem and I was great at music. Everything seemed perfect.

But during seventh grade I began feeling depressed and alone. I started thinking my life was pointless. Instead of talking with someone about it, I just clammed up. All my emotions and questions piled up, locked away in the darkest corner of my heart. I felt selfish – how could I be depressed when I was blessed with so much? But that thought just deepened my depression. I was on a downward spiral. By the end of hat school year, I’d shut everyone out. I didn’t even really want to live. I just went through the motions, sometimes contemplating whether anyone would miss me if I died.
A few weeks before school ended, some upperclassmen invited me to a Bible club event. Amazed that they even knew my name, I went. I remember a band playing, free food, games, mingling with the crowd…but I still felt alone and hopeless. Then someone on stage started talking about the Good News. I’d heard it before, but I’d just assumed I didn’t need help with life – I was successful and basically good, right? That night, I realized just how wrong I was. I desperately needed a Savior. God loved me, and proved it by sending Christ to die on the cross for every sin I’d ever commit. And suddenly I knew I needed that great love, deep mercy, and eternal forgiveness. That night, I surrendered myself to Christ.
I had hope for the first time…a reason to live. Remembering that moment makes me want to shout with joy and praise God at the top of my lungs! Life became a celebration of God’s love. It still wasn’t easy. Even today I still fight loneliness and depression. But now I know that God is always with me.
Today my hope rests completely on God’s grace. I desire to run after Him and be deeply rooted in His Word and Spirit. God overwhelms me daily with His love, beauty, perfection, strength, and grace – how indescribably awe-inspiring! I’m richly blessed and eternally thankful to be called His daughter.

Nancy Rue's Guide to Fashion on a Budget

2010-03-22T18:39:00.000-07:00

Nancy Rue has published many books for tween girls on beauty, style, faith, and growing up, as well as both The Lily Series and The Sophie Series. We’re going to be soaking in a lot of her favorite beauty and fashion tips, but right now let’s focus on getting great fashions for a great price.

BEAUTY ON A BUDGET

“To really save money, watch for sales. Many stores have sales right after Christmas and right before school starts. Some stores have promotions, like a reward for bringing in a good report card or a coupon in the newspaper or mail. Remember that just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean you’ll save money; be sure you’re actually going to wear it.”

QUALITY NOT QUANTITY
“Remember that it’s better to have a few perfect-for-you, good quality pieces of clothing than a whole closet full of stuff that really isn’t your best look. Don’t forget that you can create different outfits with fun accessories. And besides, what rule says you have to wear something different every single day? If it’s great on you this Tuesday, it will still look fabulous next Tuesday!”

DON'T RELY TOO MUCH ON YOUR PARENTS
“Know how much money there is to spend and don’t try to persuade your folks to go outside their budget. You can pretty much tell what he finances are at your house, so why try to wheedle an expensive pair of jeans out of your mom when you know things are tight? If this is hard for you, try earning some money o buy a few things yourself. When you have to fork over your own cash for that new have-to-have-it, you might find out you really don’t have to have it after all.”

MIX & MATCH
“Look for things that will go with what you already have. You might want new colors too, but be sure to choose things that will mix and match.”

Check This Out - Teeny Books

2010-03-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

GFG is all about plugging into the global community of Christian teen girls, so when a reader asked me to support her blog, I said yes. So check out Teeny Books, the new book review blog created by one of our lovely readers. So far she's covered books such as Twilight, New Moon, and The President's Daughter. Check out her blog for ratings on the books' violence, language, sexual content, and overall epic-ness, as well as a brief background on what the book's about.

This blog is new and still trying to find a niche in the blogging world, so please stop by and drop her a comment or two. Who knows, maybe you'll be hooked!

Guy Talk: Is Modesty Attractive?

2010-03-14T14:38:00.000-07:00

"As a Christian guy, modesty is SO attractive. I don't mean attractive in a lustful way, but that to see a girl living out God's standards in her life really is beautiful. And you have no idea just how much you would be helping your Christian brothers by being modest. We're not trying to blame you for our impurity, that's between us and God, but you can do so much to encourage and help us in our battle by being modest."
-- real teen guy, age 16

Look of the Day

2010-03-08T18:13:00.001-08:00

2010-03-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

What is true worship? Find out at One Voice.

2010-03-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Melissa -- Lips & Sun

2010-03-01T15:43:00.000-08:00

Just like the rest of your skin, your lips can get burned from being in the sun too long. The skin on your lips is very sensitive and actually burns easily, though you often don’t realize it. Keep your lips healthy and happy with a lip balm that contains 15 SPF (Sun Protection Factor) or greater. For the rest of your body, you should use a heavier-duty sunscreen.

Bright Lips: The New Trend

2010-02-23T18:16:00.000-08:00

In 2008, we saw the rising trend of bold eyes and understated lips. By 2009, the trend had taken the world of beauty by storm. Few women left the house without bold mascara and often eyeliner. Sultry, smoky eyes were in, in, in! This year, however, the trend has flipped. While eyes are still kept "smoking hot", they have climbed into the backseat and let lips have their turn in the spotlight. MAC makeup brand has released several new lipstick campaigns with teen fashion magazines, playing with bold color, metallics, paint splatters, and even texture. Bright lips are all the rage right now, and though we have yet to see them in everyday beauty, several celebrities have stepped up to boldly try out the look. The most talked-about look was recording artist Rihanna's dark plum lips. Will this trend continue to flow down to the everyday lives of ordinary people, or is it only a statement for the stars?

Tiny Pizzas

2010-02-22T17:05:00.000-08:00

Looking for an easy weekend recipe to make for your family? It doesn't get simpler (or yummier) than this! I promised you fun recipes in the February issue of our e-newsletter, so here it is, complete with nutritional info to help you look and feel your best.

Prep time: about 15 minutes

What You Need
•1 standard-sized bagel, cut in half
•tomato sauce
•shredded mozzarella cheese
•toppings like diced green pepper, chopped onion, or chopped tomato (whatever you like)
•seasonings like oregano, basil, and pepper

What to Do
1.Set the oven to low heat.
2.Spread tomato sauce on each bagel half.
3.Sprinkle the shredded cheese all over the tomato sauce on each half.
4.Add your favorite toppings.
5.Put a light sprinkling of seasonings on each half.
6.Put your bagel halves on a baking sheet.
7.Bake in the oven on low heat for about 5-8 minutes. You'll know they're done when the cheese is bubbly.
8.Let cool for a minute, then enjoy your tiny pizzas!

Serves: 1
Serving size: 2 tiny pizzas

Nutritional analysis (per serving):
210 calories, 9 g protein, 4 g fat, 34 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 11 mg cholesterol, 633 mg sodium, 144 mg calcium, 1.9 mg iron

Special thanks to KidsHealth.org

Why 3-Step Skincare?

2010-02-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

If you wash your face with soap or an array of different brands and products, let me shed some light on your skin care regimen. Washing with one product (or many different products) puts your skin off balance. To have healthy, glowing skin, you need a simple 3-step skincare plan customized for your skin type.
Cleanser will give you a fresh, clean feeling. Like a special soap for your face, it reaches deep into your pores to freshen and cleanse. Foam cleansers are nice but can be drying, so your best bet is a light cream cleanser. (Look for 2% salicylic acid if you have oily or acne-prone skin.)

Toner improves the texture of your skin after cleansing. Some toners (such as Clinique Acne Solutions toner) come with oil-eliminating powders that will dissolve and activate when shaken.

Moisturizer is very important for any skin type. The trick is to find a moisturizer that’s right for you. If you have dry skin, opt for a heavy cream moisturizer. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for a light moisturizer, possibly with salicylic acid or benzyl peroxide.

2010-02-17T16:25:00.000-08:00

Fashion is about the unexpected.

2010-02-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

The Right Way to Cleanse Your Face

2010-02-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Most people just slap on their facial cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, but your face is too special for that! The correct way to wash your face is simple and easy. All you have to do is change the directions in which you’re cleaning to follow the map of your face. Look at the diagram on the model’s face and follow the basic steps below using your cream cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. By following these guidelines, you are increasing blood circulation to your face.

1. Start at your neck, sweeping product upward. This will help prevent turkey-neck when you get older. You may have a beautiful face, but if the details count, you need a toned neck as well.

2. Apply product to the right and left of your chin and under your bottom lip.

3. Sweep up toward your cheeks.

4. Apply to your cheeks, sweeping outward.

5. Apply to your temples, sweeping upward.

6. Apply to nose, sweeping upward. Be sure to get on the sides of your nose as this area can get clogged easily.
7. Apply to forehead, sweeping outwards.

Hello Yellow

2010-01-23T18:23:00.000-08:00

Sure, yellow is a hard color to wear, but for those who can (red heads and brunettes), now is definetly the time.

Get ready for Spring with a yellow summer dress paired with a light jacket or thin sweater. Keep your makeup soft, going for peach, pink, or beige hues. Sweep translucent powder and bronzer together over your whole face with a good blush brush (not the kind that comes in small makeup containers). Add some pretty pink blush to your cheeks and blend for a natural look. Sweep the same color blush on your eyelids. Forget eyeliner and apply brown mascara to your lashes, finishing the look with a pink lip gloss with a hint of sparkle.

Bright yellow looks great with denim. Go casual with funky cropped capris, give it a finished look with full-length jeans, or go girly with a jean skirt (if you can find one nowadays). Go crazy with an awesome pair of yellow shoes or a bright tote. Makeup can be a bit bolder, but keep it light and "springy". You'll bright up everyone's day just by changing your look.

Is it Spring Yet??

2010-01-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

What can I say, I'm in love with Spring! Delicate fabrics mixed with chunky bright knits, everything about this picture screams Spring fever, right down to the chipped nail polish.

Pink really will steal the show this Spring, from fashion to beauty and everything in between. Girly brights and pretty, childishly pink blush are the season's hottest trends. Stay tuned for more Spring fever, only at Girls for God.

High Fashion Brights Under $100

2010-01-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

Bright colors from high fashion retailers for effortless everyday fashion that passes the GFG modesty check.

Long Yellow Cardigan - Free People, $98

Monrow Zip-Up Purple Hoodie - Ron Herman, $74.20

Check Placket Polo - Burberry, $95

Sapphire draped T-shirt - Bluefly, $52.99

Silk Modal gray and purple tee - Splendid, $63

Soft Drape Top - The Limited, $4.19

Dads: The New Fashionistas?

2010-01-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

Did you know that your dad can help you with your fashion choices? Believe it or not, it’s true. While he may not have the best sense of style in the world, your dad can be invaluable in helping you with your clothing choices. How? If he says a skirt is too short or a shirt is too low, listen to him. He’s a guy and knows exactly how teenage boy brains work. He understands what a guy will be thinking when he sees you in that new dress -- so you’d be wise to listen to his advice. Color combinations, on the other hand, are unlikely to be your father’s area of expertise.

GFG E-Newsletter

2010-01-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

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Extreme Makeover: Cleaning Lady

2009-12-20T14:25:00.000-08:00

Our Extreme Heart Makeover could also be called Trading Spaces. That’s exactly what we’re going to do today – get rid of our old selves and make room for Jesus.

How do you clean your room? Do you just pile everything up and throw it away? I’ve never been good at keeping my room clean – I’m just not an organized person. My mom has told me time and time again: when you clean your room, focus on one thing at a time, like cleaning your desk or your floor first, then going from there. Using this tried-and-true approach, we’re going to undergo a major cleaning of our hearts today.

If you like stuff (like me), it may be hard to say goodbye to some things. Your excuse? “But someday I’ll need that!” But when it comes to your heart, packrat disease gets dangerous. Everything you put into your heart – movies, music, drama, thoughts – needs somewhere to go. Good things can bunk with other good things, but negative things, like a steamy movie or explicit lyrics, can’t live in harmony with pure things, like reading your Bible or spending time with family. One has to go. So what’s it going to be? It takes a strong will to say, “No. I’m sticking with what I know is right, and I don’t need all that junk entering my mind.” If you find it easy to walk away from our culture’s toxins, you’re a rare gem of a girl. Let’s make room in our hearts for Christ, starting with the music we listen to.

Your Music
Music is likely a big part of your world. “Just like an audible strand of DNA, the collection of songs we call our own and store inside our iPods reveals something unique about us,” says writer and speaker Margot Starbuck. “I’ve noticed that the lyrics usually disclose something about my own heart.” Music can affect your mood, your relationship with God, your relationship with guys, your attitudes toward friends and family, and your worldview. Listening to positive, upbeat music gives you a hopeful outlook on life, whereas negative or explicit songs produce negative or explicit thoughts. It’s not rocket science, ladies. If your music features bad language, you will gradually be desensitized to it until you think it’s no big deal to swear, curse, or misuse God’s name. If you’re songs follow the huge lovesick trend of the typical hurtful dating scene, your view of relationships will change from God’s view to the world’s view. If you find yourself jamming to Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl”, we’ve got another issue altogether. Put your iPod on shuffle, skip through the first 15 songs, and think hard about what you’re listening to. Do the lyrics glorify God or give you a positive worldview? Or are they hurtful, depressing, and less than what God wants for you? Go ahead, take the plunge. Delete (yeah, you heard me – delete) all and any songs that don’t line up with God’s standards. Now that you’ve freed up some storage space in your heart and your iPod, fill your ears with positive, uplifting songs and get your groove on. (Read more about how music affects you here.)
Your Movies & TV
Your movies also play a big role in how you see yourself and the world around you. People who soak up violent movies tend to be more violent. Hearing characters swear makes us think it’s OK. Watching movies with sex scenes give us the impression that premarital sex is OK. Come on, girls. In movies, a guy and a girl meet at a bar, exchange a few jokes, then rip their clothes off. This is not the real world, baby, but Hollywood doesn’t want you to know that. I know, it’ll be hard when your friends are going to the movie theatre to see that new horror flick and you refuse to go, but do you really want those images in your head?

What else is keeping you from letting Jesus rule your whole life? Maybe it’s your boyfriend, your peers, negative thoughts, hatred. If there is anything – anything – that is keeping you from giving Jesus the reins, get rid of it. It’s just hurting you. Think of these faith-blockers as huge zits. You can get a complete makeover and slap on some beautiful makeup, but if you’ve got a huge zit, you need to start from the ground up and get rid of it. Covering it up or just living with it won’t make it go away. It’s the same with bad movies, music, controlling boyfriends, or trendy friends. You need to get rid of the junk and let Jesus take control. Putting on a “good-girl” cream will not make your faith-blockers hit the road.

JOURNAL JOTS:
What are your faith-blockers? Write them down on a sheet of notebook paper. Ask God to give you the strength to let these things go. Wad up the paper and toss it in the trash can. Leave it there and walk away. Don’t go back for it.

Pure Passion

2009-12-15T18:13:00.000-08:00

I sit down for an exclusive with Passion Magazine editor Ariel Oliver for her dish on her ministry, modesty, beauty, God, and her message for teen girls today.

GFG: Why did you start Passion Magazine?

ARIEL:Writing has always been a passion of mine, and it was my dad who kept pushing me to create some sort of magazine as an outlet for that talent. I thought starting a webmag would be a good idea. That was one reason for starting it; another was for teen girls to have a place to go to read things encouraging to their faith and walk with God that's also good-quality and interesting, because there's not a lot of those, and I felt we didn't have enough good resources as teen followers of Christ.

GFG: If there was one thing you could tell teen girls today, what would it be?
ARIEL: Surrender to and seek God. Surrender to (count the cost and take up the cross) and seek (genuinely pursue) God (the Creator of the universe, not some distant idea we sing about in church). From there all the other issues will come together that teen girls need to hear about, like purity, cultivating good relationships, etc.

GFG: Why is it important to value modesty?
ARIEL: Mostly because Jesus says so, but that aside, I think a few of the biggest reasons that modesty is important is...
(1) To help our brothers in Christ, the good guys, who are honestly trying to stay pure and avoid lusting. You can say, "Oh, that's their responsibility, and it's their fault if they lust after me" but is that really a loving attitude, at all? It's part our responsibility too. When you dress immodestly, you frankly are asking for guys to lust after you.
(2) To guard and honor our own bodies. I firmly believe it's degrading to dress revealingly. You're sending a message when you wear low-cut shirts or miniskirts: essentially, you're seeking male attention, and that's not what Christ has called us to. I personally want the only guy who knows what I really look like to be my future husband. Of course that doesn't mean I have to wear bags as clothes; I just have to be careful.

GFG: Why is inner beauty important?
ARIEL: External beauty is very temporary and alterable. Our bodies and faces will start to sag and fall apart as we age, but inner beauty--the one that comes from the Holy Spirit--will last forever. People who seek friendships and even romantic relationships with us aren't going to make sure we have the perfect bodies and good skin, but they want to pursue the friendship of someone who is loving, joyful, and kind. This stuff comes from the Holy Spirit and we'll only find true fulfillment if our spirits are beautiful, not our bodies! In the end, it was all that had mattered anyway.

GFG: What has God been teaching you lately?
ARIEL: I think one of the things God's been drilling into my stone heart is to go back to the basics: a love relationship with God. Just following Him out of love, day-by-day. And to keep faith. Sometimes it's so easy to lose sight of the very foundations of our faith as we "grow" in it. We get caught up in all the dumb details and think we're basically holy enough, so we start to shift away from everything that really matters--worship and enjoy Jesus. So I believe God is pulling me into a deeper, truer, purer love relationship with Christ.

X-mas Gift: NYX Luscious Lip Palette

2009-12-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

Extreme Makeover: Conquering the Lies

2009-11-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

What makes you feel beautiful? Was it when someone at church complimented your outfit or your friend said she wish she had your hair? How would you feel if you knew God thinks you’re beautiful?

In today’s culture, beauty is everything. Companies want you to believe you can buy beauty, and that they can package it and ship it better than anyone else. Magazines like Seventeen and CosmoGirl tell us outer beauty will give us friends, popularity, money, success, good grades, and boyfriends by the dozen. Little girls play with dolls that teach them that beauty means being skinny, blonde, and “sexy”, so when they’re older, they’ll struggle to find their worth in how much makeup their wearing, how much money they have, and how tight their clothes are, because that’s what makes you beautiful, right?
This is the world’s message. It’s called “pop culture” or “consumerism”, to be more exact. The media is constantly feeding us the wrong messages: “Buy this and you’ll be beautiful!” and “Look like this and be happy!” Behind all these lies, they make us believe that they care about us, but it boils down to their single motive: buy and sell. Their goal is to make money off of YOU, and they will say whatever they need to say in order to convince you that you need their product to be happy or beautiful. They do not care about your feelings; they care about your money. The saddest part of it is that we girls actually believe them. We have fallen into the trap of believing the world’s lies. This has become normal, mainstream, average. You are expected to throw away your money on beauty, fashion, and the “pursuit of happiness”. You are expected to conform to the world’s definition of beauty and believe that beauty can be bottled and manufactured and delivered to your door to give your life meaning.
Even Christians have fell for the bait. God tells us Christ’s vision for your life starts from the inside out, not the “outside in” as most people believe.
God’s definition of beauty is different. According to the Creator of the universe and the Maker of beauty in its purest form, beauty is the breath of life God gave to you and the light of Christ inside your heart. God knows that you’re most beautiful when you are serving Him, not when you’re modeling Maybelline.
God also knows that beauty is a big deal for you, and He wants you to find your beauty in Him instead of in makeup, clothes, or your boyfriend. God has something important to say about worldly beauty: “Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised it the woman who lives in fear of God.” (Proverbs 31:30) To fear God is to respect, serve, and obey Him. That is one of the biggest beauty secrets you will ever find, and it comes straight from the Creator.

“That which is striking and beautiful is not always good, but that which is good is always beautiful.” – Ninon de L’Enclos

Real beauty comes from the heart, not the body. So when we want a total makeover, who do we look to? (If you guessed God, you’re right-on!) He knows your heart and He wants you to know how important you heart is to Him. If you’re going to let Him give you a complete makeover, you’ve got to let Him take the reins and move into your heart. It’s like Trading Spaces: your old self moves out and Christ moves in. That begins your journey to eternal beauty.
Your Extreme Makeover: Heart Edition journey will last forever. It doesn’t fade with old age and never goes out of style. Once you change your perspective to that of Jesus, your heart will be changed forever and your beauty will be everlasting.
Now that we know what beauty is and what beauty isn’t, we’re ready to move on to the next chapter of our journey, where we start to purify our hearts to make room for Jesus. Stay tuned for the next edition of Extreme Makeover: Heart Edition, and be sure to tell your friends and stay tuned to our Facebook fan page to get all the updates and discussions.

Jesus, I want to be the kind of girl who values the right things. Too many times I focus on the outward appearance of others and myself. I make it the most important thing when it’s not. You made everyone in Your image. Help me to see that everyone is beautiful, and help me to place more value on people’s character and heart, including my own. Amen.

Extreme Makeover Kickoff

2009-11-22T15:50:00.000-08:00

Who wouldn’t love getting a complete makeover? Imagine this scenario: a beauty expert sets you in a swivel chair and takes you from bland to beautiful. He shows how to get your glow going and your shine on. He takes your old, unhealthy self and whips you into a newer, better you.

That beauty expert is not Guido Palau, but – you guessed it – God. God? What does He have to do with beauty? you may be thinking. Since God created woman (Genesis 2) and invented beauty itself, He’s the biggest beauty expert ever. He knows exactly what makes a girl beautiful and He wants you to discover all the beauty secrets He has for you.

God probably isn’t going to give you catwalk hair or a perfect complexion, because He knows that’s not what real beauty is. Instead, He offers you the stuff that lasts – character, virtue, purity, and integrity. Your amazing new haircut will grow out in 6 months, and you’ll have to buy tons more Neutrogena products if you want that skin to sparkle, but the things God has in store for you will last forever. The best part of it? God offers his princess treatment for free.

When it comes to beauty, you often need to prep your hair or your skin before you can start getting into the deeper stuff. It’s the same way with Extreme Makeover: Heart Edition. We’re going to take this step-by-step, day-by-day, heart-to-heart, girl-to-God.

The first step of your journey to true beauty is taking all of this to God. Take your time and say this prayer out loud. Don’t just read the words – mean the words. Let the become your own words – your prayer to God.

Dear God,

I’m so excited about beginning my Extreme Makeover and becoming a woman of God. Open my heart so I can fully understand what you want me to take away from all of this. Give me the time to be committed to growing more and more like You. Change me from the inside out into who You want me to be. I give myself to You – my mind, body, soul, and heart are all Yours, God, forever. Fill me with Your Spirit and Your beauty.

In Your Holy Name I pray,
Amen

Extreme Makeover: Heart Edition

2009-11-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

Wouldn’t it be great if everyone saw your beauty the way God sees it? As crazy as it sounds, you really can display your beauty for all to see, but you can’t do it on your own. It’s not going to happen overnight, and it certainly won’t be easy. Get ready for the biggest beauty renovation of your life! It’s Extreme Makeover: Heart Edition.

This amazing new series we’re launching into will put everything on the table – the way you see yourself, the way others see you, and the way God sees you. We’re going to talk about some pretty serious stuff, but the final result is something beautiful.

Are you ready? Here’s what you’ve got to do:
- VOTE. If you are going to participate in our Extreme Makeover, select “YES” on the poll to the right.
- SUBSCRIBE. Check out GFG’s Facebook page here for updates on the Extreme Makeover and as a place where you can chat about your journey.
- EMAIL. Email me at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com and tell me about why your heart needs a makeover, plus keep me updated on how your makeover is going.
- READ. Every few days, I will post new stuff about our EMHE.
- SHARE. Tell your friends about Girls for God, give them a link, and share the GFG Facebook page with them. We want every preteen and teen girl we can get to participate in this inner beauty renovation.
- PRAY. Ask God to prepare your heart for this and ask Him to speak to you and the other girls for God through my words.

Passion Web Mag Partnership

2009-11-15T19:14:00.000-08:00

Girls for God has teamed with Passion Magazine for an ultra-cool partnership. This means both online communities grow and share. If you are a member of Girls for God, you can now consider yourself a member of the Passion girls as well. GFG and Passion will be featuring each others ministries and projects, encourage each other to grow in numbers and in faith, and lead more girls to life-changing relationships with Jesus Christ.
If you’re not familiar with Passion Magazine, you ought to be! Passion is a webzine for young women who have made the choice to give their hearts to the one true God. Monthly articles encourage girls to pursue Jesus – and be pursued by Him!
Ariel, editor of Passion Magazine, approached me with this exciting proposition. She requested an affiliation between our sites, and I immediately said yes. So, if you haven’t already, drop by and give the girls at Passion a note!

Your Sister in Christ,
Melissa

New Email

2009-11-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

You can now email me at girlsforgodblog@yahoo.com

It's not my personal email, so if you want to simply chat, just use the chatbox to your left. However, you can email me if you want to:

get answers to your beauty, fashion, relationship, life questions
suggest a future post you'd like to see here
submit a post, beauty tip, fashion tip, or related poem of your own
participate in possible interactive surveys, interviews, etc.
submit your own photos to be used in future posts (high-quality photos of teen girls & young women)
learn more about making Christ the King of your life
and much more!

Acne Products: What 2 Buy & Why

2009-11-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone wants to have great skin, but most people are clueless on how to get it! You don’t have to buy a million scrubs and cleansers – this guide will help you choose which acne skincare products are right for you.

If you’ve got time, try Clinique’s Acne Solutions line, complete with a foaming cleanser, toner, and oil-free moisturizer. You can also buy extras to customize your skin care regimen, such as the spot gel that, if applied throughout the day, will get rid of a big pimple overnight; a special blemish stick, and more. Head to the mall to get a free consultation (and makeover!) or visit Clinique's website and take their skincare quiz. Your consultant will show you which products are perfect for your skin.

If you’ve got a bunch of blackheads, try the St. Ives Apricot Scrub Blemish & Blackhead Control. It contains salicylic acid and exfoliating beads, leaving your skin feeling fresh, clean, smooth, and bright. Don’t use it every day, but opt for two or three days a week. Remember to keep it out of your eyes. This product has a tendency to over dry your skin, so use an oil-free moisturizer and never use it on dry skin. A 6 oz. bottle costs only $4, so there won’t be any holes in your wallet. It does a poor job of controlling acne, but it definitely smoothes your skin and cuts the oil.

If you’re always on the go, pick up some Stridex wipes. If you have frequent breakouts, try Stridex Maximum Wipes, which can be found at Wal-Mart. Just rinse your face with water and use twice a day.

If you have sensitive skin, your skin is burns, dries, flakes, or reddens whenever you apply chemicals. Benzyl peroxide, a common ingredient in acne products, is a harsh chemical, so sensitive skin should not go anywhere near it! Instead, opt for specially formulated products designed to work with sensitive skin. If you’re really busy, try Stridex Sensitive Wipes. Just rinse your skin with water and wipe over your face once or twice a day. Experiment with different products but be nice to your skin! If you’d rather go for natural skincare, which may be your best bet, stay tuned for the dish on calming homemade facials.

If you’re wanting more, I’m always adding new beauty bits on all the stuff that’s important to you, like natural facials, new products, exclusive tips, and more. Tell your friends!

If you've got your own question about beauty, fashion, faith, or life, post a comment or chat about it!

H&M Lets YOU be the Stylist

2009-11-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

Excited about the upcoming winter trends? Now it's your turn to set the trends and be the stylist. One of Europe's leading fashion retailers, H&M, is pleased to give Girls for God the opportunity to try out combinations of knitwear from their new upcoming winter collection.

WHAT 2 DO: Go to HM.com to start exploring knitwear combinations fresh off the runway. The outfit below was put together by me, but the clothes are from H&M.

Winter Fashion 2009

2009-11-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Be prepared for winter with this trend forecast. I’ll show you how to be cozy and cute this Christmas.

▪ Boots. Boots are in this coming season – really in! They are so effortlessly chic that I picked up 3 pairs – black, purple, and gray. I snagged the gray ones from Target at a fraction of the price for mall or designer boots. The boots in this photo are like what I purchased; the "folding" no-heel boots are a huge trend this year and instantly vamp your style. We’ll talk more about boots later, like: “What should I wear with boots?” and “How high should my boots be?”

▪ Cowl neck sweaters, like the photo to the right. I picked up purple, cream, and gray + blue at Macy's. They are comfy and a great take on the classic sweater.

▪ Plaid. Shop for red and black plaid shirts now at Macy’s. Since it’s going to get pretty cold, snag a coordinating jacket. Wear dark washed jeans.

▪ White eyeshadow. When applying makeup, Blake Lively’s tip for bright eyes comes in handy. Dust some white eyeshadow on the inside corners of your eye (don’t get it IN your eye!) and your eyes will instantly wake up.
▪ Matte lip color for women and clear shine gloss for girls with hints of baby pink.
▪ Distressed dark jeans. Dark jeans can be dressed up more easily than light washed jeans. If you don’t want to fork over the cash for new distressed jeans, sandpaper your own pair around the knees and thighs. Jeans with holes in them are out this year for everything except climbing trees.
▪ Thick long leggings and tights. Use these instead of jeans or pants to shake up your look. Be sure to wear a shirt that covers your rear!
▪ Shiny dark nails. Break the black trend by choosing dark purple (I’m wearing some now). When the chipping is noticeable, take it all off. Don’t forget that basecoat & topcoat!
▪ Bulky sweaters with skinny jeans or thick long leggings or tights will add interesting shapes to your look and will make your outfit more dynamic. Think like a fashion stylist! Try sweaters in blue, green, red, and purple with dark gray or black leggings/tights.
▪ Sparkle lashes. The eye look with growing popularity is the glamorous shimmer mascara, with Covergirl Lash Blast and Rimmel London’s Glam Eyes taking the lead. Use these on special occasions for added sparkle. Don’t forget to stay true to your natural beauty. Brunettes should wear black or black brown mascara while blondes should wear brown or brown black pigments. Redheads should opt for a formula specifically designed for their hair color; otherwise, choose brown.
▪ Natural makeup. The natural makeup trend is soaring higher than ever, with around 70% of women and teen girls saying they prefer the natural beauty style. Chubby pink lips, pinky bronze eye color, and rosy blush are your best bet. During winter, everyone wants that sun-kissed, running through flower meadows look that can only be found during summer, and you'll be the one setting an example.
▪ Winter wonderlips. Curious yet?

Wish the weater would coordinate with your clothes? Check out the fashion forecast from Stylelist.com.

QUIZ: What are your JEAN-etics?

2009-10-26T13:08:00.001-07:00

There are so many styles of jeans to choose from. Take this quiz to find the perfect pair that fit your style!

1. One word to describe your style:
a) classy
b) creative
c) trendy

2. Do you consider yourself “fashion forward”?
a) I prefer the basics that look great no matter what
b) My style revolves around “me”, not designers or trends
c) Definitely. Fashion is my middle name.

3. What color are your jeans usually?
a) traditional dark blue
b) light sand-wash with embroidery, sequins, or patches
c) blackish or a really bright color, like hot pink or electric blue

4. Describe your hair.
a) straight, simple, clean, natural
b) long and curly or short and spiky
c) just below my jaw, choppy and cute, or long and layered with side bangs

5. Let’s talk shoes.
a) simple boots under jeans or ballet flats
b) platforms, skater shoes, or sandals
c) trendy flats, glam heels, or skater shoes

6. An ideal day would be spent:
a) spending time with friends and family
b) snapping photos, writing, or painting
c) shopping

7. Your must-have fashion piece:
a) a charm bracelet or a pretty top
b) some really funky jewelry
c) bangle bracelets or a hot pink purse

8. Makeup for you means:
a) some sheer lip gloss and some pretty blush
b) I either don’t wear makeup or I go for wildly colorful designs
c) Black liquid eyeliner and some pout-perfect lip color

- SCORING -
Mostly A’s: Boot cut Beauty
Instead of being trendy, you opt for basic pieces that never go out of style. You live by the rule that less is more and simple is beautiful. Boot-cut jeans are clean-cut and flatter many shapes. Stick with the same makeup routine, but add some natural mascara if you haven’t already. You probably look good in sheer pink lip, cheek, and eye color. You most likely understand the value of modesty and hold comfort and value above all else without sacrificing your pretty style. Invest in 2 good pairs of dark-washed jeans without elaborate embroidery or decorations.

Mostly B’s: Personalized Princess
Your sense of creativity shines through in everything you do. The best jeans for you are YOU-nique and show off your funky personality. Take up sewing if you haven’t already and make your own clothes. Personalize your jeans with cool embroidery, sparkles, or cut them up and make a jean skirt out of them. It’s all up to you! Remember to keep all your creations modest, because that’s something rare and unique, just like you!

Mostly C’s: Skinny Style
Skinny jeans are all the rage, so you must be a devout trend follower. Chances are your style will change as you age, but you have what it takes to land a high rank on the Best Dressed List. Your style is colorful but you also incorporate black into your look. You like to have bold makeup and usually focus things on your gorgeous eyes. Remember not to go overboard with the makeup and ask God what he thinks of an outfit before you ring it up. Wear longer shirts and make sure you can move around comfortably in your jeans.

Want Super Strong Nails?

2009-10-23T13:52:00.001-07:00

Follow these strengthening nail tips and you'll have Superwoman fingernails in no time.

TRIM YOUR NAILS
When you trim your nails, you have 2 cutting options. You can have an oval shaped nail or you can have square nails. Square nails are stronger.
- To achieve this look, cut your nails straight across the top and round the corners slightly.

MOISTURIZE YOUR NAILS
Healthy nails are beautiful nails! Remember this as you moisturize your hands and nails.
- Seal moisture in your nails by rubbing cuticle cream or hand/nail cream on your hands once a day. Pick one in a scent you love!
- If you're looking for a real treat, pour some olive oil into a bowl and soak your hands & nails for 15 minutes. Use the extra "You Time" to talk to God or listen to Bethany Dillon's "Beautiful" on your iPod.

PAINT YOUR NAILS
Who doesn't love painting your nails?
- Choose a clear base that strengthens your nails.
- While you should always remove chipped nail polish, don't go overboard with the nail polish remover. Remover makes your nails brittle, which leads to cracks and unhealthy nails! Only use remover once a week if you have to use it that often.

BREAK BAD HABITS
I know, I know, you can't help it. Yada, yada, yada. I absolutely cannot stand it when people bite their nails. My little sister and brother do it constantly, so that's my excuse for being mentally insane. Break the peeling & nail biting habits now to let your nails grow back and be beautiful!
- Put a little bottle of cuticle cream or hand/nail cream in your purse. Every time you feel like biting or peeling your nails, apply the cream to your nails instead. Instead of gnawing on your nails like a hooligan, you're actually repairing your nails! It's a win-win situation to breaking this embarassing and gross habit.
- Try putting lemon juice on your nails. Some girls have found this doesn't work because they get used to the taste after a while. The solution? Don't put your hands in your mouth enough to get used to it! When the habit is broken, forget the lemon juice. If that habit doesn't break, try the above tip instead.
- Remember that a bad habit takes about 2 weeks to start and almost 5 weeks to break. Stick with it, girl! I'm with you!

The Amazing Fashion Forecast!

2009-10-17T13:59:00.001-07:00

Check out this coolio weather forecast + coordinating outfit ideas from Stylelist!

Living Life

2009-10-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

I know you've read all kinds of books about some of the stuff I tell you on this blog, but I want to be totally honest with you. I understand what you're going through. I understand how your brain works. Why? I am a fourteen year old 100 pound brunette who wears size 1 jeans and less-than-perfect skin. I am not a beauty queen. I am not an older person (or a guy) trying to tell you about how you think. I am a real girl in a real world. I like belts at my waist and mood rings. I like black nails but I'm not goth. I love spaghetti (in fact, I ate that for dinner tonight). I like clothes that show of my figure without showing off too much skin. I sometimes lose sight of what's important, just like you. Sometimes (OK, a LOT of times) God feels distant, but I know He's there. I wear size 8 shoes and am not happy about that fact. I have big dreams but I'm not exactly sure how to get where I want to be. I am not who I would like to be...but at the same time, I am content with myself for the most part. I love fashion and have a great sense of style, but sometimes I ask my mom if something looks too bold (it's hard for me to remember that runway fashion is NOT wearable.)
I've read tons of great books buy older women and even guys who have a lot of cool things to say about teen girls. But I want you to know that I am learning to live and to love with you. Most of you are my age, so I'm usually not giving "big sister" advice. I'm just sharing with you what's going on with ME, and I want to know what's up with YOU. I want you to know that I want to invest in your lives and grow up with you. We can swap style secrets, beauty bites, and faith facts. But most of all, we can live life together. Because that's what being a girl is all about.

A Message for YOU

2009-10-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

This is a message for all you girls who want to be beautiful.
This is a message to all of you young women who want to be accepted. Loved. Cherished.
I write this to the girl who hopes to find her worth in the wrong places -- in her boyfriend, in her peers, in her job, in her money, in the way she dresses. Your worth is not found in these. No matter how hard you search, if you look to worldly things, you'll never find what you're looking for.
Your worth is found in Jesus Christ and Him alone.
JESUS defines you.
JESUS loves you.
JESUS values you.
JESUS gives you value.
JESUS is what you've been looking for.
It's all Jesus. It's not you. It's not any guy. It's not anything the media will tell you. It's all Jesus.
Only Jesus can add to your worth.
And only Jesus can help you discover it.

My New Favorite Book!

2009-10-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

Beauty books are so fun. But I -- along with millions of people all over the world -- have discovered the one must-have book that everyone is trying to get their hands on. In fact, it's sold more copies than any other book in the world. Yep, that's more copies than Twilight.
The book I'm talking about is filled with ancient wisdom and timeless tried-and-true secrets on all the things that are important to you:

beauty
fashion
family
guys
friends
more!

This book answers all your questions, like:

What should I wear tomorrow?
How do I find the perfect guy?
How can I help a hurting friend?
Why should I listen to my parents?

So, let's not keep it a secret any longer! Go ahead and get the ultimate fashion/beauty/relationship/life book now!

That's right. The Holy Bible. It's the greatest book ever written. All the above facts are 100% true. Whatever you're struggling with right now, God has answers for you in His Word. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a gel pen and your Bible and open your heart to what God is saying!