KUNMIO

You are the reason for the Season!

2016-12-26T13:24:00.000+00:00

Merry Christmas to all my blog readers and friends!

This post is a day late and even though it doesn't "feel" like Christmas, I know it's not about feelings but about meditating on what God did for us in Jesus Christ! Yesterday my pastor had us understand that we (you and me) are the reason for the season. We are the reason Jesus came so no matter what 2016 has been like for you (especially if you're in Nigeria), don't forget the true meaning of this season of love.

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. [1 John 3:16]

Love,

Kunmi!

How to stay Consistently Happy

2016-09-19T01:45:00.000+01:00

Life get's tough and no matter how hard you try to develop a thick skin, some things will still find a way to get to you.

I do not take the topic of depression lightly because it's real and it's a terrible thing to go through on whatever level but the purpose of this post is not to glorify depression but to help you know what to do when you're faced with emotionally challenging situations.

+Bad things are bound to happen; God doesn't make them happen

God does not make bad things happen to draw us closer to him. Bad things happen because of Satan
and they get to us when we are not in touch with God.

+If you are looking for your solutions in the pages of a self- help book, you might never get off your emotional roller coaster [Take it from someone that learned this the hard way]of acting based on how you feel. These books offer temporary solutions.

+Satan "took" Jesus [Keyword: took] to the top of the highest pinnacle. [Matthew 4:1-11]

Definitions of took: It's the past tense of take

-To lay hold of (something)

-To capture

-To gain possession

-Occupy

So Satan was practically in Jesus' mind controlling him at that point in time. If he can enter the mind of the almighty [because he was in human form of course] how much more your fragile human mind. So don't take these things for granted. The devil is powerful and you have to constantly be on your feet to get him out of your mind and stay happy.

Practical steps to staying Happy

His faithful promises are your armor and protection- Psalm 91:4

+Focus on The I will and I shall's of God in proper context

I added in proper context because the devil also knows the word of God and will try to use it against you. He'll try to have you commit suicide and tell you "oh, don't worry dear.God will send his angels to watch over you"

But if you know what God says about you in proper context, you will overcome. You fight the devil with your understanding of what God says about you.

God's promises [a.k.a the I will and I shall's] are the verses you need to remember and affirm whenever you are down. So search for them in the bible and write them out and say them to yourself everyday. Read more about Affirmations here

+Make growth choices.

We often hear that happiness is A choice; Happiness is not just one choice, its a series of growth choices. When you choose to stay happy, you choose to grow up and stop letting your feeling define you. I'm not really a music person but my way of staying happy is listening to worship music.

It's the same way sometimes I don't feel like going to church but I know that there's happiness in fellowship so I go anyway. What's your growth choice? What choice are you going to make to stay happy?

+Build Godly friendships

This is a whole other post on its own but I'll just say that you should surround yourself with people who constantly remind you of what true ~~happiness~~ Joy means. [1 Pet 1:8]

+Focus on your purpose

There's definitely a sense of fulfillment and Joy that comes with knowing more about God and helping others know him that can't be compared to any other.

DIY| Minimalist Tote bag

2016-08-28T17:43:00.000+01:00

Hi guys!
So I created this tote bag in a rush so I can meet up with today's post as planned but I think it still turned out okay.

Black and white is my go-to for anything fashion related; like I can't even stress myself to think about colors. The only time I would wear a lot of color is if its on Ankara, Like this one HERE and HERE.

I love tote bags they are so handy and easy and I'll be creating so many other styles very soon.

Let's create! It takes 20-30 minutes tops.

Supplies
For bottom of bag and straps: Leather fabric [or any other durable strong fabric like corduroy]
For top of bag: Tweed fabric [or any softer fabric of your choice]
Needle and thread or sewing machine
Steady hands

Step 1

Measure your fabric and cut. For the bottom which is the leather, I measured 7"by 11" for both sides and for the top I measured 10"by 11"

Step 2

Align the 10" sides of the tweed fabrics to the right side of the leather fabric and sew.

Then you'll have this...

Step 2.1

Also sew the side seams of the bag to close it up

Step 3

Cut out your straps 28"by 3" [I made my strap wide for durability as I always carry load lol, yours can be smaller or bigger however you like it] and join with a long stitch .

Step 4

Fold the top of the bag by 1" and sew along the folded edge to hem the bag. Add the straps down inside the fold then flip up and secure with a box stitch as seen in the image.

FINISHED GOOD!

So I started with these DIY giveaways on my INSTAGRAM and I've decided to bring it to the blog to give everyone a fair chance.

Rules
-REPOST the picture below on your Instagram page and use the hashtag #KunmioDIYgiveaway in a comment
-You must be following me on Instagram - @kunmio
-Leave a comment beneath this post with your name and email address

*Giveaway closes in 5 days!
*Open to Lagos residents only.

Squad goals

2016-08-24T20:34:00.000+01:00

Have you ever watched any high school/college movie where the nerd was trying to be a part of the cool kids and he/she tries so hard to get noticed ?

That's what so many of us try to do with God. And just like in these movies it's always an epic fail.

Inability to experience intimacy with God is the reason so many Christians fall off the wagon. You're "trying" so hard but nothing seems to be working.

The root of inconsistency for me was FEAR.

And I was afraid because I did not understand GRACE.

The first step to getting on God's squad is to understand that His Grace will ALWAYS find you just where you are. [..and this grace is so perfect that it will not just find you where you are but it will not leave you without breaking you, fixing you and transforming you. It's a process] Phil 1:6

For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law.

Romans 10:3

If you are finding it hard to talk to God or you're not feeling connected when you worship, it's because of either on of these two things:

-When you make a mistake, you crawl into hiding because you "know for sure" that God is upset with you.
-You are not being completely honest with God because you feel he'll hate you if he knows everything going on in your head/mind

But that only pushes God far far away.

The first step to getting on God's squad is to understand Grace

Understanding how Gods grace works changes everything about your love walk. It will help you know that the root cause of your disconnection is because you're trying too hard all by yourself.
I love how the message translation says to learn the "Unforced" rhythms of Grace. Matthew 11:28

You simply cannot force it. It's not about performance or putting up a show. It's Free. It is by Gods grace that he accepted you in the first place; not because you're strong or disciplined.

Our joy doesn't rest in our ability but in the approval God gives us in Christ.- 2 Timothy 1:9

Grace is freely given, the moment you attach a price, it's no longer grace.

Gods love does not come at a price. He wants you on his squad and he'll do anything to make that possible so you don't even have to do anything at all. You cannot make him Love you because that's all he does whether you accept it or not. He's literally begging you to let him in. You cannot fight for his attention, he is already fully focused on you. He already knows your feelings and thought pattern he just needs you to be honest about them because that's when he can help you. Hebrews 4:16

You can't approach God in your own righteousness or actions. It doesn't work that way.
You might be thinking; so what am I supposed to do?! Well it's simple, you don't have to do anything except be yourself. Your new self that is Grace Made.

As a member of God's squad this should be your lifestyle...

-You understand that God loves you, you should change and not otherwise.

-You trust God to shape right living into you. Romans 10

-Prayer is no longer a chore because you understand that it's a continuous conversation with God as you would to a friend. 1 Thessalonians 5:16

-Your worship sessions is no longer about how you feel but how God feels. It comes from a place of understanding what God has done for you in Jesus [Romans 8:3] and wanting to make him happy and not as a chore. so even when you're down in the dumps, you worship regardless. John 4:23-24

-You are an open book to God. You honestly bare your feelings;Good,bad and ugly to him.

-You no longer feel the need to perform because you trust God to work in you and through you
Jude v 24.

-Affirm and re-affirm. Ezekiel 36:26; Isaiah 60:2 till you're living it out.

-Just stay connected. Whenever you're at a low that's when you should be more interested in going to church and more eager to ready the word and even when you can't pray just let him know how burned out you are and the Holy Spirit will take it from there Romans 8:26

P.S PLEASE READ THE SCRIPTURES WRITTEN ALONG THE LINES OF THE POST AND INTROSPECT ON THEM-

cover image courtesy of unsplash.com

DIY| Flower Crown

2016-08-15T17:56:00.000+01:00

Flower crowns are my absolute favorite accessories! My best friends can testify to this. Lol. This DIY project has been long overdue. It will take you about ten minutes tops to create. It's very easy.

Supplies

Elastic[ White or black]

Shoe polish [In case you don't find black elastic]

Artificial flowers

Needle and Thread or Glue

STEP 1: Spray your white elastic with white shoe polish and leave it to dry for 2 minutes. [I couldn't find black anywhere] Black is good so it can blend with your hair.

Step 2: Attach your flowers with glue or needle and thread. I sewed so it can last longer. I got the flowers from an artificial flower pot in my house.

And the Crown is ready!

"Where flowers bloom, so does hope"

Finished Good

Life Lately: Seasons

2016-08-05T11:07:00.002+01:00

Hey hey!

So this is supposed to be a life/ blog update kind of post! It's been a while huh? Asides the occasional posts I dropped by to post, I have not really been blogging a lot.

Well firstly because I'm more conscious of quality over quantity and value over views these days.

So I'm not exactly promising regular posts but whenever I post just expect it to be a back to back hit! [Lol ~~I Kid~~] that's why you should SIGN UP HERE to receive all my posts in your mailbox. And yes, its different from the Weekly Letter.

How have you guys been??
Very well I hope!

So...

I've been learning ...
-How to live a full life

-That I'm not my anxiety and I should not let fear stop me from doing. That's why I did not back out from helping other grow this Saturday at the Budding Wings Event! It's still weird to see my face on a poster though! Haha.

-More about how God's Grace works and it has made me happier than I've ever been because I'm experiencing progress and joy in my faith walk.
I've spent a long time being afraid and anxious that I almost did not know what to do with this amazing feeling. (more about this in a post soon)

I'm learning to walk with Him through every season. Down times and good times. Philippians 3:14.

-To be an open book with God and be transparent. (because he sees it all anyway) It has been a stretching but fulfilling experience. Psalm 139:4

I can finally relate to these lyrics by Jesus Culture.
I will never be the same
Love has called my name
From the ashes I rise to proclaim.

I'm Currently Listening to:

Ever be- Bethel Music

No longer Slaves -Bethel Music

Yahweh- Hillsong and Yahweh- Mali music

I'm Creating again
Read the recent DIY posts HERE

I'm Building
More Godly friendships and authentic relationships.

I'm Reading
The Art of the Start by Guy Kawasaki

Yup! So that's pretty much most of the things I've been up to.

What have you been up to?

Tell me in the comment box below. :)

DIY| Off The shoulder blouse

2016-07-18T18:47:00.000+01:00

Hi guys! Its been a while since I did a DIY sewing post. I lost my vibe but not to worry, I'm starting to feel creative again and I hope to keep inspiring you with exciting projects. It'll be mainly about DIY sewing for now as it's hard to get supplies for more complex projects I'll like to do in Nigeria but lets see how it goes!

SUPPLIES

I yd of Fabric

Scissors

Pins

Measuring tape

4 yds of Elastic

Needle and thread or a sewing Machine.

Steady hands.

So yeah, the off shoulder blouse! Everyone seems to be jumping on this style-wagon these days and you can always trust me to be a bargain queen and make it by myself! There are different adaptations of the off-shoulder blouse. I wore a different style in THIS POST. I particularly love this one with detachable sleeves since I saw the ones from roccothebrand on Cassie and that's what I've created in this post.

It's pretty simple to make and I've tried to make this post as explanatory as possible.

STEP 1: Measure your upper chest (around and under your armpits) and upper arm width. Add 10" to each measurements.

STEP 2: (a)The upper chest size measurement [+10"] is for the bodice of your blouse. Measure this on your fabric and cut. Do the same with the sleeve measurements.

STEP 3: Fold in half and pin the edges and sew. After this, you'll have three circles

STEP 4: Turn the top edge of your circle inside by 1" (for the elastic to pass through) and sew in place.

STEP 5: Pass your elastic through the tube with a safety pin.

STEP 6: Sew the ends of your elastic together and sew the gap created in your fabric closed.

FINISHED GOOD!

Repeat step 4-6 for both sleeves and the bodice. Finish up the sleeves You can choose to sew and attach the sleeves to the blouse, but I prefer the detached off shoulder as I can wear the body as a skirt and use the sleeves to accessorize another sleeveless blouse [Talk about Multipurpose fashion!]. Your finished work will look like this...

Nedu of Nedoux.com is holding a one day DIY sewing master class this Saturday! DIY sewing enthusiasts this is your opportunity to learn how to learn basic sewing skills. Trust me, she's a pro!
Send her an email : nedouxxx@gmail.com

On living a full life.

2016-06-30T18:36:00.002+01:00

This post can also be titled Life lessons for twenty-somethings but I thought that'd be cliche so I decided to go with this instead since that's my new life motto [But that's for the next post. ;)]

You should sign up to get the LoveLetter, you'll get more detailed straight from the heart talk on there.!

+You cannot find a balance: between God and your career, family, business. etc If he doesn't come first, then you're set up for failure.

Now is a point of view. You can say "I need to wait until all my ducks are in a row" But I say to people when you get that duck what are you going to do with it? We have our ducks and they may not be in a perfect row but the best way to be to be where you want to be ten years from now is to do something today that you'll be glad you did =Seth Godin

+Plant seeds because you deserve every bit of the good life you envision so don't stop watering & nurturing your seeds even when there's no sign of germination. Keep working. Make mistakes, take pride in your false starts and never stop moving. Isaiah 66 v 9 says the earth doesn't bring forth in one day, a woman goes through labor before she births. God is a God of process. Give him your little seed and Believe before you know it, he'll turn it to a lot and a little more.

Find the beauty in your process.

+The dependency syndrome will make you weak so you need to get rid of it fast! There's a thin line between being vulnerable and being dependent. A very thin line. Getting rid of the mentality that I cannot solve my own problems without outside help was a real defining moment of my life.Yes without a doubt, you will find people that genuinely want to help but at the end of the day, if you're not well grounded, its very easy for you to get addicted to being dependent and addiction is never a good thing. When you face challenges, setbacks, moments of rut,allow yourself feel it, If you have to to cry yourself to sleep for a few nights, do just that and it's in those rock bottom moments you'll find your strength, you'll figure out your next plan of action and come out stronger. [This is another reason why No 1 is important]

And don't let anyone put your down because you are young -Timothy 4:11

+Selling yourself short will not serve you. You can't continue to shrink so people that don't understand your purpose will feel comfortable around you. Don't shrink for them. If you keep saying "but I'm just 20-something, even people that are 30-something haven't done this yet..." or "I'm the last born, nobody in my family has done this yet" and other things like that, You are pretty much doing yourself. [Lol that's the best way I can put it]

+Your passion project which is a fancy term for your purpose is something you have to figure out NOW. But beware of writing your own vision and making it plain all by yourself [Habakkuk 2:2] It's not something you discover in one day. Finding your purpose takes paying attention,listening, connecting dots and above all letting God lead.

+Pour yourself out by learning and sharing and your life will be better for it.

+Wing it: And by winging it I mean not living by the rules set by any other human or some self help book but taking your leading directly from the holy spirit. Have what people might tag as UNREASONABLE FAITH. This is very quickly becoming my lifestyle. Although some things I do might not make sense to me or people around me at the time, my life is a testimony of God making all things beautiful in its time.

+Phil 4:6: In these two sentences, you can get rid of worry and anxiety in your life forever. You might not remember what you read in the pages of "How to stop worrying and start living" [Great book by the way] when the devil attacks with trying situations but you will remember "Don't worry about anything, pray about everything" so simple!

+Make lists and keep a journal. They'll help you stay accountable.I explained reasons for that in detail HERE

+Her/His journey is not your own

"Then I observed that most people are motivated to success because they envy their neighbors. But this, too, is meaningless--like chasing the wind".-Ecclesiastes 4:4

+Be a DIY person Your bank account will thank you for it. Read more about that HERE

Lastly,

You can't succeed on the terms of people's opinions. you have to choose; Your faith in God or your fear of people. What will it be?

There are so many lessons to learn! I'll have to come back to keep updating this post.

What lessons are you learning currently?

Please share with me in the comment box!

Thanks to the folks over at Casper for inspiring this post!

Good daily devotionals for your twenties

2016-06-15T15:02:00.000+01:00

With many stories like these, he presented his messages to them. Fitting his stories to their experiences and maturity. He was never without a story when he spoke.

Mark 4:33

Coming into your twenties is when you start to go through so many life experiences and things that you're not completely sure how to handle start happening in your life. You have to make your own descions and major life choices among other things. People might be able to chip in once in a while to help but at the end of the day you're on your own.

Seeing as it's this decade that defines the rest of your life, you can't afford to do it wrong and it'll be quite difficult not to if you don't have that personal relationship with God.

You build your personal relationship by learning how God works and how he wants you to react to situations.

There's a story in the Bible for everything you are going through. There's definitely an experience that you can relate to.

You have to first ask youreself "what stage in my life and experience am I at now; and if I was sitting at Jesus feet [like the disciples back then] what story will he be telling me to help me and show me how to deal."

Mark 4:33

What better way to learn that through a story?

That's why devotionals are important. The bible is broad and devotionals will help you build a FOCUS.

You can't just pick up any devotional. You have to pick one that relates to your situations that's why topical devotionals are the best to indulge in because you'll get immediate answers and solutions. They meet you at whatever stage. It's like Jesus speaking directly to you in person!

These are a few topical devotionals I'm currently Loving!

You version plans

The Youversion app is simply the best. It's perfect for the average twenty-something because it's digital of course! There's a wide variety of plans to choose from and it sends you a daily reminder. Its available for download on iOS and Android.

RickWarren
rickwarren.org/devotional sends daily emails to your inbox and gives you daily hope for practical life situations.

Touch Points of Hope

Hope is what keeps our Faith alive so we need to be reminded everyday about why we are on this amazing journey with God, we need to keep our hope alive and that's why I love this devotional! It's sort of like a promise book.It touches on different topics; Love, courage, endurance, failure, loneliness and straight forward scriptures about what the Bible says. You can just pick it up and affirm promises over your life. You know how big I am on Affirmations

Buy on Amazon

What devotionals are you currently using
Do share in the comment box

Peace x Love!

The Weekend Blend

2016-05-30T15:39:00.000+01:00

I've curated The Weekend blend [I got inspiration from KIITAN] as a mix of things that pique my interest on/off the Internet that I think will be useful to you guys. It will come in as often as I find these things every other weekend. So her goes the first !

Never underestimate the power of technology to help you stay on top of your game! Google calendar has been doing just that for me. Read my post on other apps that help me keep it together. HERE

I'm back to completing my coding course at codeacademy.com. You'll be able to hire me to build your website very soon! ;) and if you want to learn as well, you're welcome!
Free fonts. If you are into that kind of thing.
THESE POSTS create your own history and determine you destiny and tell yourself a good story.
If you struggle with anxiety as a christian CHECK HERE.
The Muse: If you're on the job hunt this website will give you the best advice.

I'm a quotes collector, so yes! quotes will always be a part of the blend.

I don't know why and how I've been sleeping on the amazingness that is Jamaican black Castor oil. I've heard about it but never thought it wise to try it because in my head I believe these "things" don't work but in actual truth this one does work. My edges are screaming for joy as I type this so trust me when I say its the truth!

These songs are constantly helping me get through life.

DIY ADIRE TWOOSIE

2016-05-28T14:04:00.000+01:00

I got this Adire [Tie-dye] fabric last year from Abeokuta. I got the inspiration to make this twoosie about two weeks ago. I t took about a week and half to make [because I'm a lazy sewist]

This is easily the most comfortable piece of clothing I own at the moment and I intend to make a few more with probably different designs or the same because I'm all for this off shoulder trend!

Flats or heels? [I'm all about the flats life!]

Happy Long Weekend!

Become a better Lover

2016-03-21T16:34:00.000+00:00

The vulnerable business of connecting with people and loving them is something we usually run from. We are so focused on building OUR self-worth, Our looks, Our happiness and we forget that a life revolved around ourselves cannot bring true happiness. What is life if all that drives us is our own self-gratification?

In truth, even though we fail to admit it, we are afraid to be vulnerable especially in this part of the world. It's smart to be careful but there's a difference between being cautious and shutting people out completely.

Connecting with people is the first step to showing them Love and if we claim to Love God, that should be at the top of our to-do list every day.

Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other -John 13:34-35

The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. -John 21:17

So if you want to jump on this love train here are 7 ways you can get out of your funk and Love others!

__________________________________________________________________________________

No man is an Island

JOHN DONNE

__________________________________________________________________________________

Smile

I'm constantly in my head thinking about one thing or another so I often have this intense look. When people get to know me I get comments like "I always thought you were a snob","I thought you were mean","I was always scared to come speak to you" etc I am learning to smile more often now. At first, I used to be like "that's how I am and I don't even want to make new friends anyway" but that was just me trying to avoid being vulnerable.

It's amazing how much just a little smile can do. A smile signifies acceptance and approval. Your smile can put a smile on another person's face and really that's one of the best gifts; it is a way of saying I accept you flaws and all.

Challenge: Start smiling. Start by smiling when you are alone and watch how you'll start to feel happier now imagine what that smile can do to someone else's life! Romans 16:16

Set Some goals

Setting daily love goals helps us to improve and be accountable. One simple act of genuine kindness sends has a ripple effect. If you are able to reach out to 3 out of ten people you meet daily, you can indirectly reach out to 3000 people.

Challenge: Write out a daily love to-do/goal list

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If we are to be busy to be friendly, we are out of balance and headed for relational disaster

JOYCE MEYER

__________________________________________________________________________________

Give people (including yourself) permission not to be perfect

God loves us unconditionally and he gives us permission to be imperfect while helping us to be perfect. More often than not, we refuse to connect with people because they don't meet up to our standards. We all need to be encouraged and encouraging people and bearing with their weakness is one way of showing love.

Being friendly might not come naturally to you, but you should learn to live above your feelings and not let that stop you. The fact that you don't feel ready to connect with people does not mean that you're not ready.

Approach Everyone Like you would approach Jesus

It's one thing to approach everyone like Jesus will approach them and it another to approach everyone like you will approach Jesus.

How will you approach Jesus? Answer that and use it as your Action plan for this point. And read 1Pet 4:9

Be prepared to be Comfortable with being uncomfortable

Would you rather send money/clothes/resources to support a cause OR get actively involved?

Your answer to that question shows how far you are willing to go for love.

One of the major problems in the world today is that we are choosy. We choose what works for us when it comes to showing love instead of what works for the other person.

God could have made salvation easier. Jesus did not have to die. But He had to give something he wanted to keep so it can have true meaning.

Love is not authentic till it "moves" you. You cannot be addicted to convenience if you really want to reach out to people.

What does your love revolve around? Does it revolve around your comfort zone or does it revolve around going out of your way to make someone comfortable?

Challenge: Find ways you can be activelyinvolved reaching out to people True Love lies in doing something. [keyword: actively]

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Let God set you free from yourself so you will find Joy in focusing on others
-Isaiah 61:1-

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Learn to Listen

Listen, not just with your ears but with your soul. Be observant. I'm no psychic but I can almost tell what someone is going through after observing them for a while. You think you will never know what the next person is going through but have yout tried listening long enough?

Challenge: Consciously "listen" throughout your day, study people, learn their love language and pray to God to use you to put a smile on their face in any way you can

Be intentional/Ask Questions

Don't assume everyone is okay. Ask people how they are doing, how you can be of assistance, how their day is going, how they feel etc Yes you might get ignored occassionally, but you never know who is actually in need of someone to talk to.

Don't take things Personally/Forgive

There's so much freedom that comes from this. You have to get to a point where it;s almost impossible for negative things to get to you and your life will become so much better for it. You'll have so much inner peace and happiness. Let go and forgive and don't let the negative actions of other people faze you or stress you out. Love them anyway.

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Living in Love helps you realize that heaven on earth is a reality

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5 LIFE LESSONS LATELY

2016-02-12T15:39:00.000+00:00

Hey guys!

This post is inspired by Ty Bello's running with Jumoke. Like the rest of Nigerian/black social media, my Timeline has been buzzing with news of Jumoke's life-changing story and all I can say is that God is truly amazing!

In case you don't know about the story

Long story short, Jumoke was a bread seller that ran into Ty bello's shoot and that was the beginning of her turnaround. She's now signed into a modeling agency, she has a magazine cover etc. God has showed up to sort out her life.

Never look down on anybody

"Dear God, Reduce Me to Love"

This should be your prayer every morning as you wake.

TY could have ignored when everyone asked about Jumoke because she was an ordinary bread-seller but she saw potential in her and she followed it up. Jumoke speaks little to no English but now she's got a modelling contract, a magazine cover etc just because TY chose to see the best in her and not look down on her.

You are exactly where God wants you to be.

I tell myself and other people this all the time. Quit complaining about your life and stop feeding the god of "this is not where my life is supposed to be". Stay grateful, stay contented,stay focused and hardworking. Jumoke trained to be a hairdresser, but when she couldn't get her freedom certificate to start her own salon, she didn't stay back and sulk; Nope! She got down to Lagos and started something else.

Your blessing is just around that closed door. God is using your current situation to work out things perfectly for your good.

Don't take anything in life for granted

It's the little things that count. Focus on the things and most especially the people around you. That person sitting beside you on the bus, your colleague at work, your next door neighbor etc. Don't be so caught up in your own life that you forget to notice the lives of people around you.

I don't have much to say about this, I Just want to reiterate the fact that we should learn not to ignore the little things in life. Pay attention to people, to things don't be caught up chasing epehemreal things of life.

Don't just seek to be blessed, Seek to be a Blessing

You hardly find anyone that says, "Lord as I am leaving my house today, Let me run into someone I'll bless". It's usually the other way around. "Lord please let me run into divine favor" and I've been seeing comments like this on Jumoke's photos on Instagram.

You don't have to be "the Jumoke" pray to God to help you be "the TY" (put you in position to help others) and abundance will flow into your life!

It's Never about what you do, Its all about God's Grace

1 Corinthians 15

God is committed to blessing us in our due time! So it does not matter what we do. Don't go to God saying "but I gave my tithe, I preached to the lost, I gave to the needy" etc. God's Love for us will never be about our actions but all about his grace when our season is DUE

MUSIC TO HELP YOUR MONDAY: SWEET PEACE

2016-02-08T09:16:00.000+00:00

Because Mondays can be pretty tough!

Unfortunately, I couldn't find the lyrics to the song anywhere online but I'd probably take my time to write them here later. But the lyrics are really powerful and if your Monday hasn't been off to a great start, it will soothe you and put you back in the right mood! It's a sort of prayer/Affirmation song. I'm sure you'll love it!

Enjoy!

Thank you KIITAN for the album. You can get it HERE

Snippets

Jesus, be my peace come strengthen me

To know your love me

Draw me into your grace, that all may see your face in me.

________________________________

Jesus give me courage to confront this day

To see these intersections of grace

Spirit come over me and fill this place.

Bible Study 101: Journaling

2016-02-06T13:16:00.000+00:00

So I just read Mathew 5:16 in the Amplified Version and I’m trying to type something on it because I’ve found that its one of the surest ways to get whatever message the Holy Spirit wants me to get from it…..

Okay so first he wants me to share the benefits of this form of meditation; about 6 months ago, I realised that whenever I was reading either my passage for the day or the passage that comes with my devotional reading for the day, I just skimmed through it and on a good day, I prayed about it after, but then I hardly ever thought it through or even thought about it again for the rest of the day, it was more like a quote for the day as I often just nodded as I was reading it and occasionally said ‘hmmmmn, deep’ when I read some.

But then the Holy Spirit wanted more from me, he wanted it to actually be my verse for the DAY and not just the morning, so He led me to start writing something I learnt from the scriptures I read or the devotional every single day. I must admit the very first day was a bit of a struggle cos I have never thought of myself as a writer, which led me to just think of it as some form of a test or classwork;

Question 1: Read the above passage and share your views on what the author was referring to.

Surely this worked and I started to enjoy it and even look forward to it. I not only understood the passage but was also able to see other ways that the passages applied. I was even also able to relate them to previous passages that I had read, seeing the relationship between the scriptures, and well, I found it beautiful because, in addition to all of these, I was able to hear the Holy Spirit every day, he was there practically dictating to me and explaining these things to me and this was exhilarating.

This right here is just an example of this beautiful relationship the Holy Spirit and I have when I write about a passage, I was thinking I was going to be explaining a passage in this post but then I ended up doing something else. However, he says you should try it out, while reading Mathew 5:16. Feel free to post your explanations in the comment section. If you are someone like me, then

Question 2: Read Mathew 5:16 and explain in your own words what Jesus meant in that scripture.

Enjoy.

INDULGE IN THESE FREE PRINTABLE WORKSHEETS TO HELP IN YOUR QUIET TIME

THE TOPICAL STUDY SHEET

This will help you study on several topics and areas of your life that you need clarity, peace, focus and just answers in General. We all have daily needs and the answers are contained in the Bible. Use this sheet to document them and apply to your life. DOWNLOAD HERE

THE DAILY BIBLE STUDY SHEET

This is a sheet for daily scripture reading and Bible study. DOWNLOAD HERE

Trusting God with Everything

2016-02-01T09:33:00.000+00:00

Happy New month Loves!

By now, most of us are well on our way to having a great year and we're still on track with the plans and goals we have written somewhere. We definitely want to make this new year count however, it is imperative that we engage our Faith In God to achieve these goals so we don't give up half way through the year.

You should also read A guide to setting your goals with God at the Center / On waiting

In 2 Corinthians 12:9, He said: “My Grace is sufficient for you.” This means no matter what goes down in 2016, God's grace is all we need.

This post is just to remind us that all we need to do is stretch out our hands to receive Grace from God who has wondrously reached out to us, making his power, wisdom, resources and many more available to us.

That is what Faith is. Faith is accepting God’s offer to help us and engaging His grace.

I do not know exactly what you may have planned out for 2016. Many of us may have set realistic goals but I would like to challenge you to push that goal a little. Join us in a “Walk By Faith” this year. Go back to your goals and add something challenging. Something you know is only possible with God. Something you have no control over. Take advantage of God’s grace over this issue and walk in faith this year.

The bible tells us in Romans 12:3 that we have been given “the measure of faith.” We need to use this measure of faith so as to grow in faith. Accept God’s offer to help us accomplish unimaginable things this year.

Header Image source: Grace bol by Tom Newton on Tumblr

A GUIDE TO SETTING YOUR GOALS WITH GOD AT THE CENTER + FREE PRINTABLE

2016-01-29T17:04:00.000+00:00

I sent this in my loveletter two weeks ago [If you haven't signed up to the list, you're missing out! Please do so HERE]

So I've been seeing some funny twitter updates and Instagram posts about January being a trial month and their year is starting in February. Lol. Well if you're in that category, this post is mostly for you. Just kidding its for everyone. :)

We are nothing without God and with Him on our side, there's no limit to what we can do.If you have already set your goals for the year or you are ~~in the category of people above~~ still planning to do so I beg you to indulge in this 3-step-guide to help you set your goals properly.

Write down your goals no matter how scary

But before writing them, ask yourself this question
WHO DO I THINK MY GOD IS? Your answer to this will determine the kind of goals you will set.The minute you set you goals based on who you are instead of who your God is then you're set up for failure.

Look for a promise in the Bible that relates to each of your goals.

For example, I'm looking up to God for a miracle for something people have tried and failed at but I know the Bible says WHERE OTHERS ARE SAYING THERE'S A CASTING DOWN, I WILL SAY THERE IS LIFTING UP. Write down the promises against your goals.

Affirm.

This cannot be overemphasized. Affirmations help to build your mindset and give you unwavering faith. Once you begin to affirm theses promises you will see them come to life in no time.

+1 Take Action:

It is not okay to just stand on Gods promises and affirm, you have to take action. Use available resources that God has put in place for you to achieve your goals.

Yup! Just three easy breezy steps and you will be on your way to having your best year ever!

THE FREE KUNMIO PRINTABLE GOAL SHEETS

There are four sheets in the set

-THE MASTERLIST - Spaces to work on your goals for 4 domains of life and balance and an extra space for other goals. DOWNLOAD HERE

-GOD CENTER SHEET - In this sheet, you can work on up to three goals from each domain of your master list [i.e you'll need to print more than one sheet] then write down scriptures that align with each goal in the tables below and then affirmations and positive thoughts in the last space. DOWNLOAD HERE

-BREAK IT DOWN SHEET- This sheet is similar to the God Center sheet. you can also work on up to three goals from each domain of your master list then decide what steps you need to take to reach the goal/s. Finally, break those steps down into simple actions. For example, your first Spiritual goal might be "reach out to lost souls" the steps to achieve this goal could be: print out fliers, join evangelism team at church, use social media, start an evangelism blog etc. Then you break it down into further by picking each of the steps and breaking them into actions such as:print out fliers, Actions: write content for the fliers, Pray for courage and Grace. DOWNLOAD HERE

-DAILY SHEET- The Daily sheet is where you can write smaller daily goals and tasks. DOWNLOAD HERE

I worked hard on these sheets and I really hope you find them useful! Do let me know how well it works for you.

I really wish you all the best this year and I pray your walk with God grows stronger than ever in Jesus name.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: TouchPoints of Hope: God's Answers for your daily needs.

Have an amazing weekend!

Continuing in Prayer

2016-01-17T14:46:00.002+00:00

Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality. - Romans 12:12-13

Ever felt like there is something you need to do, you know you're meant to do it, everything around you keeps reminding you about it, but then you still do not do it. For me lately, it's been praying.

Every time I read a Bible verse, there is something included in it about the need to pray and the importance of prayer, so it's not like I don't know that I'm meant to pray or how important prayer is. I even know that the devil tries to stop us from praying because he knows the power of prayer. I think about how I used to pray fervently in the past and how I can see some of the fruits of it even now but still, I haven't been able to get myself to pray.

But right now, I'm on a Bus and I see a notification from my Bible app and that reminds me that I still haven't read my devotional for the day, which I do and as usual, it says something about prayer. And at that moment, I feel the Holy Spirit asking me why I never feel like praying and lose concentration and I answer saying it takes a lot of work and energy and he tells me but it's just communication, it's just talking to me. It doesn't have to be 20 minutes of speaking in tongues, it could just be 'Good morning HolySpirit, this is what my day is going to be like or at least, this is what I want it to be like, but you know best so just take control of it all' and at the end of the day, just like with any friend, you tell him about your day. And as I type this now, I'm reminded of how I used to do this a while back and how much I enjoyed it. It's really beautiful.

Plus in retrospect, when I think bout my very simple prayers 'God please I want wifi on the bus', 'my tooth hurts, please make me feel better', they actually get answered. And I'm convinced that God really just looks at our heart, not the pitch of our voice or the length of the prayer.

Oh and I read this passage today that I found beautiful. It's asks God to give us "Rejoicing in hope; patience in tribulation; continuing in prayer"

Bliss Triggers 01

2016-01-15T16:30:00.000+00:00

Bliss triggers are rare [mostly] occurrences that remind us to be present in every moment and focus on the little things. This segment of the blog is where I photograph these little things every other week.

Each moment in life is a miracle. Learn not to take anything for granted. Enjoy the laughter of children, walk bare feet in the rain, watch the sunset…

-Robin Sharma

1.This Agbalumo and Zobo Sorbet from Hans and Rene

[Because what' s not to love about Icecream or in this case, something that tastes like Icecream.]

2. This book I borrowed from a friend [Jony Ive]

[Because there are only a few things better than a good cup of coffee and a good book with many innovative ideas]

3. My brother's dog.

[Because I went from hating him when he first came to the house to loving him a lot. We are like best friends now!]

4. Free road.

[Because free road in Lagos is something to be utterly grateful for.]

More things
-this app has helped me a lot
-weekly love letter I just sent out to the mailing list subscribers
-this planner is really helping me get organised!
-this album I just started listening to
-these devotionals have blessed my life

WORK IN PROGRESS

2016-01-11T07:03:00.000+00:00

My lax eating habits, demotivation and lack of inspiration are the reasons why you have not been seeing a lot of personal style posts on the blog but I've decided to give it another try and see how it goes.

I don't know if it's because I'm currently not in a good place with my body or it is just a part of growing up but my style is so much more simpler now. I have given up most of my heels for flats, I'd rather wear free clothes now and I run away from colors [I don't know if that's a good or bad thing']

I'm learning every day that it's okay to be a work in progress and things don't have to perfect or anything close to perfect all the time.

And it is so amazing how God uses the little things to teach us life lessons if only we'll just pay attention.

I made this dress last week Thursday and it wasn't until I was about to wear it to take these photos that I noticed I forgot to lock the edges [if you look closely, you'll notice some of the thread] meaning the cloth wasn't done yet. I was so upset with myself for forgetting and I almost didn't go through with taking photos but I did anyway and It did not turn out badly[or did it?], it is almost not noticeable. But that's not even the point

Okay, maybe it is the point.

The dress isn't finished on the INSIDE but it looks great on the OUTSIDE.

Lesson for today

Don't let the fact that you're still a work in progress make you love yourself any less. We all have a thing or two that we are trying to fix about ourselves but that should not stop us from being our best selves always.

DETAILS

I'm wearing Agbada dress I made by myself and gladiator sandals from AMELIA COUTURE

A GUIDE TO ACHIEVING YOUR READING GOALS IN 2016

2016-01-08T14:53:00.000+00:00

I set reading goals for 2015 but I only made it through to half of the year. After July when I did the Half year book Review HERE, I got distracted and I couldn't keep up.

I noticed that almost everyone I've asked and everyones goal I've seen via social media has a thing or two to do with reading more books in 2016.

Here are a few steps I'm taking to achieve my reading goals this year and a possible guide for you. God help us all.

-What's in it for you?- This is what you should ask yourself before you pick up any book. Especially as a young adult; whatever you pick up to read should be in line with your life goals and plans. Of course its okay to read other things once in a while but most importantly, you need to have a FOCUS.

-Have an accountability partner- It can be your friend, sibling or even social media. As for me, you my blog readers are my accountability partners. That is why I've dedicated a whole page check HERE to documenting my progress and if you guys discover I'm being sloppy you can email me or put up a comment to call me back to order. Will you do that for me?

-Prioritize: In order to get the best out of your reading, you have to prioritize. Take me for example, I started the year with personal development books because I know I'll need a lot of motivation and practical advice to get me through my goals for the year. So pick different categories to focus on each month in order of their importance to you.

-Do your research: Once you've selected different categories for each month, research and find out the top books in those categories. January for me is for reading Personal development books. I researched the top books in that category those are the books I'm reading this Month.

-Don't Rush- Don't rush to read your books and this is why you must set attainable [SMART] goals. I currently don't have a 9-5 job and that's why I can afford to read a book a week because I know I'll be able to keep up. Set your reading goals to fit your kind of life.

-Take Action- Take action on whatever meaningful thing you learn while reading especially personal development and self help books. If you don't do so immediately you're going to start feeling like you're reading in vain. The fruits of applying whatever you read to your life keeps you motivated.

Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.

–Frederick Douglas

Lastly, Drink tea while you're reading ~~it helps to stimulate your...~~ it gives you the whole "seriousness vibe" Lol. And also visit a book shop often to search for new options.

I hope you found this post helpful?

Do leave a comment and share your thoughts.

GRATITUDE JOURNAL 05

2016-01-02T15:19:00.000+00:00

Hello all!

Happy New year again. I hope your year is off to a great start?!

For new blog readers, gratitude journal is a segment of the blog where I document things I'm grateful for every week on the blog.

This is the first one for this year and Its just all about reflecting and giving glory to God for everything He did for me in 2015.

I'm grateful for the grace God gave me to fight all my battles last year. I battled with anxiety a lot and it set me back on a few things and even on my relationship with God but I'm fine now and ready to take on the new year
I'm grateful for business ideas and strength to execute. 2016 is looking so bright I can't even contain my excitement
I applied to a couple of jobs and the responses got depressing and overwhelming but guess who ended 2015 paying someone's else's salary?!
I'm thankful for the friendships I had to let go of and the new ones.
I'm thankful for 31 days of Loving like Jesus that happened last year March and for everyone that contributed to it! It really changed my life.
I'm thankful for my family! God has been tooooo awesome.
I'm thankful for THE BLOOM SHOP that's launching soon. I felt like giving up oh so many times but God saw it through.from production to building the website, to keeping me in a perfect state of mind...
I'm thankful for this blog and you my blog readers! Omg, you guys have no idea how many times I've almost quit the entire thing because of anxiety. I literally feel my heart beating like it's about to fall of my chest anytime I put up a new post but God keeps reminding me about His purpose for my life and this blog and that's what keeps me going.
I'm thankful for improvements in my Bible studying and my relationship with God.
I'm thankful for Life! I did not fall sick throughout 2015. I wasn't involved in any accident. I completed my NYSC, God was really Faithful to me. I'm so Joyful.

NOW YOUR TURN

What are you grateful for?

HELLO 2016: CONFRONT AND CONQUER

2016-01-01T09:48:00.000+00:00

source

Happy New Year People!

What a Joy to be here alive, happy, joyful, complete and blogging!

I woke up at 3 am yesterday and I was going through my Instagram. It was filled with posts about how 2015 went and how 2016 is going to be like. In that moment I also felt the need to create on of such posts and put up on Instagram but I didn't have anything so I closed my phone and went back to sleep. I was unsettled but I couldn't figure out why.

I woke up much later at about 6:30am to attend to some business and I was scrolling through my Instagram again [ Lol yes, I go through Instagram a lot. Bad Habit or Nah?] then I saw this post by Heather Lindsey.

I smiled because it just explained the reason why I was unsettled earlier. She put the million and one thoughts in my head into a few sentences and this was one of those moment where in my head I'm like Yes! #APT! #WORD! Lol Kidding. This is all I've been trying to say all along. I took a screen shot and I kept going back to look at it in my Camera Roll.

This is what everyone needs to know.

If you're a lazy person on December 31 , writing a couple of goals and posting new year resolutions on Instagram or twitter or Facebook won't turn you to a hardworking person by January 1. Its not Magic.

You might get by in the first week or the first couple of months at best because you want to keep up appearances and form New year, New me but trust me, by the second week or after some months, you'll go back to the same old person well that's if you don't involve God.

Me for example, I set a couple of goals in 2015. READ MY HELLO 2015 post HERE

Amongst others, I set goals to read a book a week, to eat healthy, to be more confident and get out of my comfort zone, post more on the blog. Lol

I'm sure you can guess why I'm laughing already. I didn't do so well! I'm not proud to admit that but then I have to be honest right? I honestly thought I could get by on my own at some point.

I was able to get by with reading a book a week till June and then it became a struggle, I was in full hermit mode almost through the year and guess who ate a whole lot of junk food this year? Me. And please don't let me start with how I did on the blog.

But in the spirit of GOING THROUGH THINGS AND NOT GETTING STUCK, I have already started working on my setbacks once I figured them out and I did not say "oh I'll wait till the New year so I can set new goals and it will all be better"

Nope! I took action!

Here's what to do?

ROMANS 12:12

Hand everything over to God. That's the only way you can be TRANSFORMED. The fact that 2015 Changed to 2016 cannot Transform you, Only God can do that.

Don't Join the Bandwagon of posting New year resolutions and goals on Social Media if you've not taken them to God first.

As it is with every other day, if you want to be a new person by January 1, you must go to God and tell him to take control and Just like Heather said, pursue Christ and let him renew your mind. That's the only way you're going to get by with you goals and achievements in 2016.

I'm glad I've figured how to do it right this year and hopefully by putting God first and making CONSCIOUS EFFORTS to follow his guidance, I will have a better year.

So that's why my theme for 2016 is CONFRONT AND CONQUER.

Confront [make conscious efforts] and conquer [overcome] everything that's standing in your way of becoming a better person. When you're going through things, do not sit down and baby your problems; Pray, go to your Bible, use what you learn to confront those fears, those setbacks and watch how you'll conquer this year. All by the grace of God of course because reading your Bible and praying more often is another set of goals you need grace for.having a wholesome relationship with Gos is a whole 'nother set of goals.

HAPPY NEW YEAR LOVELIES!

HAVE AN AWESOME 2016.

I LOVE YOU GUYS.

__________________________________

THE WINNERS OF THE BLOOM SHOP GIVEAWAY

TOSIN OLUDARE- POCKET SQUARES

CASSIEDAVES - SCARF

Please do send an email to claim your prices to olakunmioni@yahoo.com with your phone number and addresses.

__________________________________

HAVE YOU SIGNED UP TO GET THE WEEKLY LOVELETTER ?

We go through things and not get stuck .

2015-12-27T13:31:00.000+00:00

So the year is running out which means that everyone is talking about goals they set for the year and how much of it they were able to achieve. Quite frankly I think I only set two; finish my masters well and get closer to God…….How did I do on both? I am not so sure. I also start to think about commitments I made and I remember this one which I made to God: to preach the Gospel via social media in my own little way.And I'm thankful to be able to do that through this platform.

This morning I read two days’ worth of my devotional (becuause I didn’t get to read it yesterday). The first one was about not getting led by your emotions while the second one was about ‘going through situations’. I think reading both of them together was perfect for me cos suddenly it brought light to something I have been struggling with for a while.

For a while now, I have been letting my emotions make my decisions, and as you may guess, I have been making a whole lot of bad decisions, decisions that have been detrimental spiritually, emotionally and maybe even physically. At some point I even became scared of the new person I was becoming and how I didn’t like her or not even sure I recognised her. But then just like the second devotional said, ‘we go through things’, key words being ‘go through’ and not get stuck.

I think everyone experiences periods of highs and lows, that’s definite, it’s a given, but then we all have a choice in determining whether we go through them, letting it teach us the lessons it was meant for, and then move on from it stronger and better, or if we stay there, stay stuck there. Here is the thing, I know its much easier to give up when you are going through rough periods 'cos trust me at some point I wanted to believe that this might just be the new me and maybe its time to embrace it instead of constantly trying to fight it, but then I did, I am, every single day I decide who I want to be and work towards it.

_________________________
OMOLORO FASUYI is the newest contributor to The KUNMIO Blog! Read her Full Profile HERE

Gratitude Journal 04

2015-12-19T15:52:00.000+00:00

It's been a while since I did the gratitude Journal post on the blog. I've been so so busy, but I'm never too busy for the blog!

Thank you to everyone for the birthday wishes.

I was quite nervous because of my birthday throughout the week and I'm not sure why but I'm thankful for another year of life! I really am.

This past year has been a huge learning experience. I've made new friends, I've had to let go of some. I've had meltdowns more than ever but by God's grace, I keep picking myself up.

I've never been in the habit of claiming any year, or being overly excited about the year because I get to set New year resolutions and all of that, but I'm currently have this strong feeling that 2016 is my year! Lol

In all, here are the things I'm grateful for today:

New friends that help me grow and I can learn from
My small tribe [circle]
I'm thankful for new ideas for the blog that came when I was on the verge of quitting.
Maturity and growth
Clarity of purpose
Courage and Strength
I'm thankful to be the creative owner of my small business[ES!]

What are you grateful for?