Faith Gives Us a Place to Sit and Refill

You always hear people say God is with us. But what does that really mean? As a believer and faith walker, as you draw closer to God as Father in relationship, we feel His presence. We feel His presence in everything. We understand that God is everything and is in everything and wants us to relate with Him. When we realize Hie is with us, we also know He is there for us. 

In those moments when our human side feels alone, we connect with our spiritual and can feel that we are no alone at all. We never are. When we grow weary and tired and feel like we just can not see a way to go on, we are lifted by God's promises in His word. Then we know that our " faith gives us a place to sit and refill." In that place, He sits along with us, and His Holy Spirit pours into us a fresh anointing with a renewed spirit. 

We go to His well, that never runs dry. We go knowing that when we feel empty, lacking, or tires, our spirits are only longing for more of His presence. Its not that He has left us, but that we have gotten side tracked with our carnal life and we are not refilling our spirit. You can always pin point or at least I can, the times when those feelings overwhelm me and I am feeling alone and at a loss.  Those times always coincide with the times when my focus has shifted to this life more so than spiritual and relationship with the Father. 

May you always remember your source and connect with Him continuously. May you never forget your place of rest, peace, and renewal. He is everything we need. Won't you just live in Him as He lives in you?

He Restores My Soul

Question: How will you commit to connecting more with our Father, our everything? As you connect more do you see a big difference in how you feel?

Answer in the comments, would love to hear from you. 

Our Community

In a Virus Pandemic and the Racism and Injustice Epidemic .....God's Promises of Healing and Restoration

The Outrage, Fed up, Been time for change....Do you feel it? We all should.

If Not, take a moment to take in these, but only a portion of the feelings our people are dealing with.

Anger, Fear, Pain, Hurt, Unwanted, Unprotected, Demeaned, Talked down to, Disrespected, Misunderstood, Unheard, Not seen, Dismissed, Ignored, Not Accepted, Denied, Overlooked, Accused, Unqualified, Not equal, Condemned to a certain life, Provoked, Wrongfully arrested, Killed, Murdered....no Justice, No Peace. 

The Journey, mile by mile, feels beyond what any of us/our Black people can bear. Misunderstood by those not in the shoes of the weary. The emotional and mental load is no longer teetering and barely keeping its balance, it has dropped over the edge right now and can no longer be contained. Now; Do you feel us? Do you see us? Can you hear us?

This world and all that it seems to put on you can be heavy, hurtful, painful, and incite angry, frustration and fear. All those, and more, emotions build up and can and does explode in ways not with an intent to destroy physically, but to be heard and seen and incite change in a world where we are not seen, heard, protected, or taken seriously.  There is definitely not time like the present to stand firmly on the Word of God. You can not forget the fight of the Spiritual Warfare. The fight over your mind, your heart, and against the Spirits passed down and transferred from one to another, and generation to generation, that have taken control over those causing and committing these acts of racism. We can not forget that fight, for it is the ultimate fight.

The true battlefield, Is in the minds and the hearts of the people and in the systems they have set up to be against us. When I am praying I like to be specific and really tackle every angle the enemy is trying to come through. I love the point that is brought out in the book Fervent, by Pricilla Shirer.

" If I were your enemy,  I'd disguise myself and manipulate your perspectives so that you'd focus on the wrong culprit....Because when you zero in on the most convenient, obvious places to strike back against your problems, you get the impressions you're fighting for something. Even though all you're really doing is just....Fighting. For nothing."

Just like in the tools of spirituals warfare, Prayer , the Word, and the Whole armor of God,  The battle in the physical will also need to have much Focus. Where do we go from here? We zero in on the real culprit(s) and we focus and utilize the tactics that will really incite change and sustain the change. 

God Promises us, and I am a believer. I believe what He says in His Word that as we come to Him humbly, He hears us and will heal the land. I believe that He is with us to the end of the world. I believe that there is nothing He can not do and that this change is only something He can do.  I believe and I know that He does restore our souls, and our lives and livelihood will be restored as promised. 

What will I do? I am going to refocus. I am standing on God's Word. I am fighting both fights. If we tackle the Spiritual, the Physical will line up.  I know that physical work is needed along with Faith. And I am willing to work. And yes, I will vote! Will you? We must! 

The Power of God supersedes all of this! He is yet on the thrown and in control! My fear is settled in the arms of His Peace, the assurance of His Love and His Promises.

Hey God I Hear You..........."Be Still, Wait, You are Predestined"

During this time when we have been forced to stop our routine lives and only do what is necessary then stay home, it has become apparent that there is more to this, this sitting game, more to it than just sitting. More to this than just more free time to chill, relax, and pass time until all is back to "normal," there has to be. Trust me, the relaxing time is much needed, but it definitely comes to a point when there's been enough of just doing that and that alone. What more is it? What could this time really be for? Am I utilizing this gift of time to the fullest?

Some ask how do I hear God? What does that really mean, what does that really sound like, How do you even know its Him? Well that takes relationship and also a heart and ear to listen. 

In the stillness of the night, the sounds of the day have faded into silence and a blanket of sleep has fell upon the entire house. A nudge, not a physical touch, but a spiritual one has awakened me from my sleep. Its quiet, we only get this real quiet time about 3 or 4 am when the night walkers of the house finally settle into their sleep. The initial feeling is that I need to get up to go to the bathroom, but it always turns out to be more than that. A time to Hear. A time to Listen.  In a subtle moment of heightened senses, you feel it, you hear it. Though its not loudly audible, its consciousness, its still thoughts, its peace, its understanding, its assurance.....its the arms of comfort and renewed strength. I hear God, I feel God. 

A still, small voice says "Rest, really rest, because this next season is going to be full force in abundance and blessings. Keep you mind in peace  and joy in your heart and a praise on your tongue, because there lies power. Pick up those books I gave you and along with my Word use to strengthen the firm foundation in your children. Write down those words you heard me say, in them is a sign, direction, and confirmation. Don't be afraid to make that move, go fourth with boldness and Faith. You have what it takes. You have me, in you, through you, around you.....Trust in Me."

Clarity. Assurance. Faith. Now Work.

Yes God, I Hear You.

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New Day....New Mercies

The sounds of morning hit me first. I can still here some birds chirping, even now. Bird sounds tend to always make me feel like all is okay out there in the world. When they start to to get quiet and there are no signs of birds in the air or trees, I tend to worry. Reminds me of the sign for Noah after the Great Flood. God is in control, even now, during this pandemic, He's in control. 

I already know that the light will hit me next. The light hits my eyes bright and hard, especially since we never put up any black out curtains over the blinds in the master. There are 3 sets of windows in the master and the sun shines bright at all angles. Never knew it was so bright. As a mom and a nurse, there's never been many times that I have been in bed still when the sun has risen for the day, until now. Its been almost 5 years living in this home and only now is every detail magnified. You really start to get to know every inch of your home when you are forced to stay in it for weeks, and months at a time. Not sure if that's a good thing or not.

I went to bed the night before not feeling great about everything I did or didn't do, or what I said or didn't say, or if I even left a mark at all. I know I didn't do as much as I could have, or everything I should have. There's a pile of books on my nightstand, note pads and pens stuck in each, including my Bible. After a long day with the kids and all the duties, I'm lucky if I can pick up one to read for 2 mins before I fall asleep. Most times I have to catch scriptures here and there on the Bible app or in a Bible plan I've signed up to complete. By the end of the day I feel like I just haven't did enough to spend more time with God. I feel like I thought some thoughts I shouldn't have and said some words not in the best way, and I'm sure I didn't treat everyone in a Christ-like way. Human nature and frustration sometimes takes over. Each night, I finish the day in prayer and pledge to start over and do better the next day. 

Its a new day. Not that the routine will be different or the tasks will change, but the Mercies are new. And Oh I thank God for that! Doesn't it just amaze you how God can see your faults, forgive you and move forward, just like that. Something we seldom even do for ourselves. He wants us to know that we are His children and that He is faithful and everything is okay. All we need, He provides. He knows our hearts and all is forgiven and the chance to start again is in the break of day. Squinting through the bright sun beaming through the room from every angle, its the break of a new day....New Mercies I see. 

🎵 Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! 

“Great is Thy faithfulness!” “Great is Thy faithfulness!”
  Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—
    “Great is Thy faithfulness,” Lord, unto me! 🎵

Great is Thy Faithfulness. 

Rinse and Repeat. Not Complaining.....Just counting my Blessings....Silence Blessings

A slither of light shines through the blinds as I squint over the edge of the comforter, the last moments of silence fades away as the door slams for the 2nd time. My husband is off to work another day. The signal that its a work day/weekday. This is the day tracker I have now, since all the days are running together. For a moment there is a silence right before the slow creaking sounds from the bed moving in the other room, the door slowly opening, and the hallway floor enduring the steps of another day. Then a fast scampering of little feet resounds throughout my room and I feel a hovering cloud hanging over me as I open my eyes to a loud voice, "Good Morning Mommy! Can I have Breakfast!?" Time to get up.    

I'm Up. Use restroom...Brush teeth, check. Wash face, check.  Get Dressed, Check. Do the same for the little one. Then grab the essentials, cell phone, tablet, headphones, water bottle, head downstairs for the another day. "What do you want for Breakfast?" is repeated 10 times before my 10 year old finally answers. The little one, my 4 year old knows what she wants right away, she knew before we came downstairs. For a moment there is a silence between the chews and chomps but soon comes the roaring sound of the 3rd argument between them since we woke up. Its another copy cat session, or who's first competition, or battle over what to do next. Let's not forget the ongoing game of "Floor's Lava" being played between each bite of food. I'm on repeat mode, "please stop fussing, please sit down and finish eating, " leave your sister alone," "leave your brother alone," " please stop being so loud, he's right in front of you," "Please get off your head." Same song, Same dance, inevitable. 

Now can we just settle down for our school day at home. My 10 year old heads off to the office to continue working on his virtual learning assignments for the day. He's been up at least an hour before us and does not hesitate to tell me multiple times that he doesn't have much to do or he doesn't see anything posted yet. Everyday the same reply, "Caden, you have to check back and make sure, you know the teachers don't post till after 9 am." "It is 9!" I stretch my eyes wide in an attempt for him to feel every word I am about to say as I say it for the umpteenth time in a row "Yes Caden, its exactly 9, please, you have to give them more time." 

He finally settles in front of the computer for all of 5 mins before he pops back out to make sure to disturb his sister and I while we are beginning her lesson for the day. I'm in my bus driving and teacher mode, its the only way to get her to cooperate. As I sit on the sofa with my hands around an imaginary steering wheel, I call out, "The bus is here, any kids at the bus stop, ready to go to school?" She grabs her pre-filled book bag, comes running to the sofa shouting "I'm coming, wait for me!" She sits down on the desk beside me and pretends to ride the bus to school. We "arrive at school" and she gets off the bus (up out of the desk) and walks away into the "school doors" and turns back around, places book bag at the "cubby area," (a space beside the TV)  sits back in the same desk beside me and says " Good morning teacher, I'm ready for school." I am no longer the bus driving, I am now the teacher, until the end of the school day that is. 🤷‍♀️ Hey, whatever works. 

We go through the day alternating sit down reading and writing and coloring time with up and moving to the music time. At some point we even have a lunch break, first with the lunch she packed in her bag from her play kitchen, and then with real food. We also have recess. Usually that involves some sort of stretching, conditioning for gymnastics and practice on her floor bar and mat. The head/hand stands and cartwheels and stunt flips are nonstop, so we have to channel those skills into a sport she loves and is great at. Of course she doesn't want to do the pretend nap time. A mom can only try.

Caden has come out several times on his own, taking breaks and restarting his work until he has finished for the day. I make sure to do all the checks and make sure I ask, " Did you finish everything, Did you do your best work, Did you remember to press the submit button?" It never fells, he has to go back and make sure he pressed submit. 

Ok, Wooo, its about 1:30 pm and we are done with school, now what do we do? Still no video games during the school week, we tried to lighten up on that rule the first 2 weeks and it didn't work out so well with the quality of work being submitted. So now we find a game to play together, or watch a movie together, or pull out tablets and watch their own shows or movies, while mommy tries to get some of her work done.  Yeh, that last option never works out well for mommy. Didn't hurt to try though. There it is again, a moment of silence as the part of a movie plays that they like, of course they don't sit quietly watching a whole movie. 

Its about 3:30 pm now and they are biting at their nails for another snack. Never late on meal and snack times, if they can't remember anything else, they know those time. They run to the pantry, ask me about the sweet snacks again (they know they can't have until Fridays and weekend days), then they stand looking as if the wall to wall, full pantry has nothing else in there to eat. Then the scuffling starts, I hear a door slam and sounds of cries coming from the kitchen. "Caden closed me out the pantry! Caden won't let me get a snack!" As I calm them again and they finally get a snack, a bit of silence happens again. 

At about 4:30 pm its time for me to prep dinner and get started cooking. I made a mistake long ago and told them dinner will be ready by 6:30 pm and they have held me to that every since. We either have dinner or wait till daddy comes home and eat all together, depends on how slow I am moving, what I am cooking and how fussy they are. 

The kids freeze to the screeching sound of the garage door coming up and they know their dad is home. They take off running. Its in ongoing game they play to see if their dad can find them. Either that or they hide and try to jump out and scare him. From this point on, the silence is non-existing until their bedtime. He comes in and saves the day, he is their adult size play buddy. I see his posture, I know he is tired, but he doesn't show them that. He jumps right in and plays or takes them outside to play till their heart's content. They love it and they love him. I am so thankful. He has no idea what this moment means to me. I plop on the sofa and just breath, Im scrolling through my phone, but really just in a daze.  We eat, we may watch a movie or play a game or he with them and I just stare into space or try to get some work done again. He makes sure they get their baths and nightly meds and get them to to bed. I'm still in that same spot on the sofa. Pooped. 

We finally get to bed and start talking about our day  and anything else we just want to get out. And there it is again, silence, in the pauses between us talking and then just me talking and then a long silence. He fell asleep again. I was just talking to myself for then last few sentences. I know he is very tired. I take a deep breath, sigh, then chuckle and roll over to get some rest and get ready to rinse and repeat again tomorrow. 

One, Two, Three, Four.....and some more....its in there all throughout the day. Little, Big Blessings not taken for granted, not overlooked.  Just what I prayed for, good health, happy kids, family bonding, and a dash of silence and peace here and there. Restoring my strength a little all day long to make it through the day and on to the next. God never stops, He never sleeps, He is always working and ensuring you make it through. Its all what I can bear and the righteous will never be forsaken. I just Thank God for that 🙌 and of course for those Silence Blessings😉 

❤️

From Frontline "Essential Worker" to Homeland Warrior....still a Frontliner

I know I have been restored for such a time as this....

"I am a Nurse," rings in my head over and over and I have such an urge to get up, get out there and help in any way I can, because that's what we do, that's that I do, that's what my heart pulls me to want to do. But I am also a Wife, and Mom, a Daughter....Granddaughter and so on. In these times, this pulls on my more. The uncertainties of everything and all that we are learning about this virus is beyond our everyday decision to go out the house and go save lives. It's not the same, never did I feel like I was not able to protect myself no matter what was thrown at me.

Besides, there other battlefields out here. One that is not really being talked about, not in the sense of being on the front lines. Battlefields of the Mind, Battlefields in the Home, and Financial Battlefields. What is it really like for a Nurse, in this time today, who has to decide that her calling as a Nurse has to take a back burner to her calling as a Wife and Mom first?  The thoughts of not contributing to the team and feeling less than. That Battle is pocketing those thoughts and continuing on to keep going for the leading job at hand now, adding on being a teacher to the household duties that already spilled over your plate. Recognizing its okay to vent and you still love your family, your children, your spouse, and it doesn't take away from the great extra times you now have altogether; but still feeling bad for doing it.

Its just a whole new life, you are no longer going out of the home to work daily, so no new money coming in, only additions to your roles and responsibilities. My eyes bulge out of my head at the thought of how my days go, day in and day out. After numerous hours of restless sleep, and trips to the bathroom, awakened by the kiss on my forehead of my husband saying goodbye as he leaves for work. Its 630 am. Then a few minutes later our 4 year old comes in to get in bed with me until her brother, our 10 yr old decided he is ready for breakfast. We try to get the day going by 9 am. Get ready, eat breakfast, and get this "school" day going. God did not grant me the patience that teachers have. I have a whole schedule posted on the fridge and we stick to it, that's just how I am. Its what keeps me sane. Breakfast, schoolwork, am break/snack, schoolwork, lunch, schoolwork, pm snack, finish schoolwork, then free time. Yes, of course somewhere in between all all that we have breaks that are not on the schedule.....come on, kids will be kids. I get a little moment in, until the kids see me actually trying to get something done, then my attention is needed immediately, always immediately. Then its time to get dinner going and look forward to a little break my husband gives me as her spends time with the kids when he gets home. That little break, big to me, is so needed. It's 10pm......the day will be starting over again soon. They need me here too. The Front line here is just as important.

I joke to myself that its groundhog day, like the movie. I don't know what day it is anymore. We are just going to keep waking up to the same day, over and over again until we get it right. Until we make the decision that God is trying to show us, truly listen and hear Him, and make the right move. I'm praying and I am listening, and I know God is on the thrown. Most of all I pray to remain in that peace, that peace that only He can give. You don't have to understand it, why with all that going on, does the outside still look calm and unbothered, why is she not insane, why does she still have a praise in her heart and a "Thank You Jesus" out her mouth. God's Peace, surpassing all understanding. I am so Grateful.

Working Working Working ....Goal Digging vs. Parenting and Spousing

My goals are expanding everyday. It seems like I have some new extension of business that I feel compelled to do every minute of everyday.  Not only am I being pulled towards my ambitions and callings, but also keeping in mind my role as a wife and parent, I am called to balance it all. My goal is to come closer to my happiness and life fulfillment in my career(s), while also giving my kids all the opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun, and my husband support, love, and quality time. Woooh, yes, that is a mouthful. But hey, us mom's/women make it happen, daily, no matter what.

Its a push to keep going some days. Some days a flooring of the gas pedal full on, and others are in a slow cruise mode like Sunday driving like there's nowhere to get to fast. As I am writing, I just noticed I left off myself, taking care of myself. Rest, eating right, sleeping, exercising, and treating myself to some pampering......always far fetched and last on my list. Actually, more recently, I have put me at the top more, saying, no, when I need to and resting more. I just have to keep it consistent. You definitely can't pour into others when you are depleted. I thank God for His strength that reaches to me daily. 

This prioritization has initiated this urge to transition this blog in somewhat of a new direction. I just want to me the light I am called to be and to walk in the calling of restoration and all that that means for who I am, all of my roles, and all the services I offer in business. Our main focus in business is youth restoration and strengthening the parent/child connection/relationship, so I will focus on topics related the most. 

I'm excited about this continued journey....won't you join me..... 

Will you go.....Will you recognize God's voice and heed to His word?

Its funny how God will send you to a place that is completely out of your norm, and you can't figure out why He sent you there until after you have left. If He says go back, He will give you what to say and do this time, will you heed to His word, even when its completely out of your comfort zone?

 I am a travel nurse in the operating room. I spend most weeks at very different outpatient centers, with a wide variety of cases.  I contemplated this same scenario when I was first sent to work at an IVF surgery center. My thoughts were, "why am I here? I am too emotional to be here. I don't know what to do for these patients. What can I offer these patients when I can't even control my own emotions in the hard times?" There's a difference in how you see yourself versus how God sees you. Even when you think you have affirmed yourself and, know that you know, who you are and whose you are, you still have a ways to go. God knows our beginning and our end, He sees us in a way like no other.  He wants our thoughts to be His thoughts of us.

After weeks of working at this particular location, I soon came to realize why I was there. I was there to cry with these couples, to hold their hands, to silently pray over them for comfort, and peace, and strength; to encourage them to stay strong and know there is a plan in the works if they only just keep believing, to be right there during each step of the process and ensure them that they are not alone. It is just so much inside of me that I could not even see, until I opened my mind to exploring why God wound send me.

This is relevant for so many other circumstances and situations. Listening to the radio the other day, I heard the host say " The enemy's attack is on our belief. God will strengthen you and remind you who you are in Him. I Pray to God to help my unbelief." God knows you way more than you know yourself and believes in you even when you can't see His plan for you in a given moment. He just wants us to connect, relate, and open our hearts and minds to believing even what we can not see just yet.

Get out there, just go where He sends you, When you get there (preordained destiny), He will give you what to say and do. Don't be afraid, just delivery the message. Jeremiah 1:9

Restoring Someone

True Faith can change someone's situation, if you can do, do.......God will not allow you to go down helping someone in need. Its His purpose for us.

-James 1:14-20

Faith can be difficult to sustain, I once heard a preacher say, "the one thing that lets you know you are not trusting and having faith is the manifestation of your sins." You sin because, you don't believe God will handle your situation. Or you don't help others when you are able, because you fear that you will cause yourself to be in need also. This means you do not trust that God will take care of you and yours. Restoration of Life Center, is a small, still developing organization that is stepping out totally on faith, believing that God will do what seems to be the impossible. We are helping others with the little that God have giving us, expecting that God will continue to give even more so that we are able to continue in our mission and calling. Faith is easier when you carry a spirit of expectation.

Expectation is not thinking the worst, and looking forward to what is great to come. In all areas of our life, having great expectations of our great God can begin by changing the surface and then penetrating those areas and turning them around for our good. I believe, because God said, and I've seen Him do it before.

Step out of your comfort zones and give as your heart desires. Trust God to do the exceedingly, Great and what seems impossible. I personally rejoice in what God enables me to do for others........as I rejoice, he sees my heart, and blessing me also.

Thanking God for this season of Grace, Mercy, and Favor......Amen.

Spring into Stronger Relationships......beginning with God first

If we think about it, we have many relationships and many of them are pretty strained. Yes the relationships have good moments but, there are some pretty big bad, stressful, and unhappy moments as well. The first thing we tend to do is to blame the other person in the relationship rather than looking are our contribution to the problem and turning to God first. The key solution, which is rarely ever the first approach is to examine our relationship with God and what needs to change to perfect that relationship first by aligning our life with Christ. This sounds deep, but its really not.
As Christians we are suppose to be living like Christ, so our life should reflect a Christ life, right. That can only be accomplished by giving up yourself totally and trusting God completely. Now this is hard. As a human, with sin, your first approach to relationships is to get your own pleasure from it, as well as all things you do in life. The sincere and real approach should be a whole other motive. Your ultimate goal is and always should be to live as Christ would, love and give without focus of only what you want in return, but because it is what God wants from you.
All it takes is for one participant in the relationship to surrender totally to God and He will mend and restore your relationships to a level you could not even imagine. Try it. I've know it works......I've seen it work.

"When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him"
-proverbs 16:7

National Boost Your Self-Esteem Month

Reach out to someone this month, especially our youth. Let them know that this too shall pass, and the things happening now are only temporary, that they all wonderful, they are beautiful, and they are loved. They need to hear this Badly.

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.  1 Peter 3:3-4

http://www.mhasck.org/news/article72.html

"February is National Boost Your Self-Esteem Month, and not a month too soon for teens who are in dire need of self-esteem boosting. Low self-esteem is a critical issue facing teens today. It has been proven that low self-esteem affects learning and can lead to such problems as delinquency, unhealthy relationships, eating disorders, drugs and suicide. According to most estimates, about 30 percent of today's teenagers are dropping out of high school and every school day 160,000 students miss school because of bullying. Hey U.G.L.Y. has teamed with the National Association for Self Esteem help teens realize they are cool just the way they are."

Knowing Your History

It is very important to know where you come from. If you never know where it all started and all the history behind you, your family, you culture, and your world, then you will more than likely never know what exactly makes you tic, what's really inside of you, and what you can really accoumplish. Take the time, this month, to explore everything about yourself, even if you are not African American, History is good for everyone.

The Beginning of your History is that God knows you, before you knew yourself, and He knows your future......

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalms 139:13-16

New Year, New You......

It's a new year, and that means that everyone is trying to be something or do something different than last year. Making changes, that hopefully will last, but seldom do. If I can think of anything that I want to do, it would be to strengthen my relationships, with God,  with my husband, with my children, with my family, and with my friends. This take effort of my part, Even when I can see that the other parts of the relationship are not doing much or at least not as much as me. I want to humble me self more, less of me and more of God, so that everyone can see His Glory first, and not focus on what it is they think I have done so great. Cause it's all Him. I plan to serve even more, for I have found that this is truly the heart of a Christian and is truly my heart and serving encompasses all of my life's goals (from directing the community center, to nursing, to event planning and all giving). I Love it all. I just want to do more, and love it every step of the way.

The best thing you can do is find that thing that makes you the happiest, and ask God and actually listen for direction. He will direct your path.

Proverbs 3

1My son, forget not my law; but let your heart keep my commandments:

2For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to you.

3Let not mercy and truth forsake you: bind them about your neck; write them upon the table of your heart:

4So shall you find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

5Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding.

6In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.

Become a Mentor, Be there, Encourage Someone

I was blessed to have a mentor my senior year of high school, which was something I never thought about before. At first it was really just another way to get out of class and wrap up this long senior year that I as was ready to be over, so that I could "get on with my life." Of course now I am ready for life to slow down and give me time to catch up on my goals  and achievements I have yet to accomplish. Unexpectedly, this mentor became an outlet, even though I didn't feel comfortable letting everything out, it was enough to know that someone, a human, was listening and actually seemed to care. Now I can see that God is so much more than I thought at that age. But it is still good to have that earthly contact and connection with someone that can either relate or at least is able to care enough about you to listen and give advise where needed.

Just give it a try, it can be just a kid in the neighborhood, at church, and a near school or community center program. You never know the impact you will have in their lives. It can be extraordinary for you and your mentee. http://www.bbbsatl.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=68&Itemid=69


Proverbs 1:1-7
To know wisdom and instruction,
    to understand words of insight,
³ to receive instruction in wise dealing,
    in righteousness, justice, and equity;
⁴ to give prudence to the simple,
    knowledge and discretion to the youth—
⁵ Let the wise hear and increase in learning,
    and the one who understands obtain guidance,
⁶ to understand a proverb and a saying,
    the words of the wise and their riddles.

⁷ The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
    fools despise wisdom and instruction.

National Down Syndrome Awareness Month

http://www.ndss.org/

supporting the awareness of down sydrome and the resources for families, for assistance, learning, social, and growth programs.

Buddy Walk of Atlanta

Walk Date:	Oct 7, 2012
Walk Time:	1:00 PM
Walk Name:	Buddy Walk of Atlanta
Address	Centennial Olympic Park
City:	Atlanta
State:	GA
Zip Code	30303
Country	United States

• The Buddy Walk program was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October. The name Buddy Walk promotes inclusion between friends of every ability.

• 17 events took place across the country during the inaugural year of the Buddy Walk.

Breast Cancer Awareness/upcoming Events in Atlanta

Its that time again, a time when the world puts breast cancer awareness in the forefront of our minds. For those affected by this awful disease, this time is all year long. I am greatful and blessed to have had negative biopsies on several instances in my life. The lumps that I have discovered were all by self-examination. I just want to encourage everyone to get your mamagrams and make sure you do your monthly self-exams. It is imparative that you detect this disease at early stages so as to have the best chances to beat it down. Also during this month, make sure you are donating to the cause and getting involved in some of the fundraising and awareness events. We have to get the word out to everyone, early detection is the key.  Make a difference in someone's life today!

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Atlanta Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia

Saturday, October 6, 2012

9:00AM

 Centennial Olympic Park
234 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta

Upcoming Hot Pink Events

Georgia State University Pink Panthers Football GameWhen: Saturday, October 6, 2012, 3:30 p.m.
Who: GSU Panthers vs University of New Hampshire
Where: Georgia Dome
Walk over to the Georgia Dome after Strides Atlanta and cheer on the Panthers! Tickets $15, enter promotion code: ACS. Click HERE to purchase tickets and for more information. Proceeds from every ticket purchased will benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Georgia State will also be holding an online auction throughout the month of October with proceeds benefiting Making Strides.

2nd Annual Pink Cocktail PartyPresented by Mary J. Roberts Foundation
What: Celebrating Breast Cancer Survivors, Patients & Caregivers
When: Wednesday, October 10, 2012, 7:00 p.m. - midnight
Where: Museum Bar - 181 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW Atlanta, GA
Tickets $27.50. On sale now at www.4jane.org.

Georgia State University Volleyball Survivor GameWhat: Celebrating Breast Cancer Survivors and their Families
When: Saturday, October 13, 2012, 2:00 pm
Where: Georgia State Sports Arena - 125 Decatur Street Atlanta, GA 30303
The GSU volleyball team will be honoring breast cancer survivors and their families at their October 13th game; family and friends can send in the name of a survivor along with a short description of their story to be read and recognized during the volleyball match to dschirmer1@gsu.edu or call (404) 413-4171.

“My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity . . . This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones” (Proverbs 3:1-2, 8).

National Health Awareness Month

Im looking at myself in the mirror and seeing a different me from 10 years agao, from 5 years ago, even a year ago. I'm seeing a lot of things I don't like. Does that sound like some of you? I am determined to make some changes......first thing is making sure i am always putting God first, then I know everything else will fall in line. I am doing good so far, getting my exercise in, walking, jogging, and most importantly, making sure I rest also. So many people don't realize how important rest and decreasing stress in your life plays a big part in your health. I seeing a difference already. Take some time for yourself, move having good health up on your list of things to do, and take care of yourself......Life will be so much more enjoyable. Start by going for your annual check up......

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE BASICS

By Miriam E. Nelson, Ph. D.

Most people know how harmful smoking is to health. Many public places have banned smoking—not just to discourage smokers, but also to protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke. Unfortunately, just as we begin to make headway reducing smoking rates, obesity rates are climbing to epidemic heights. Poor diet and physical inactivity are poised to surpass tobacco and become the leading preventable cause of death in America.

Poor Health Habits Lead to Premature Death

These poor health habits increase risk for chronic diseases including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, which can all lead to premature death.  A recent study¹ released by The United States Health and Human Services (HHS) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that deaths due to poor diet and physical inactivity rose by 33 percent over the past decade. As caregivers, we often neglect our own health, but there are simple ways to stay healthier.

You can Make a Difference by Exercising More and Eating Healthier

You can start with smaller steps. Reduce sedentary activity in your home and workplace and encourage others to join you -- for a walk, an exercise class, or just by taking the stairs rather than the elevator.  Use an exercise machine or simply stretch out on the floor while watching television instead of lounging on the couch. When you shop, choose whole, non-processed foods. Prepare your meals following the new government guidelines at www.mypyramid.gov.
When you eat out, you can ask for whole wheat bread, brown rice, and twice the vegetables with half the starch. If enough of us start asking for wholesome foods at restaurants, they will start serving them!

Benefits of Regular Meals

Sometimes we assume that skipping meals is a good strategy for controlling body weight. The logic says if you cut a meal, you’ll cut calories. A study from the University of Nottingham in England shows the opposite. ²
Lean women and overweight women were asked to follow either a regular or irregular meal schedule for 14 days (including skipping breakfast). The women were then asked to follow the opposite meal schedule for two more weeks. When women (both overweight and lean) ate regular meals their total calorie intake per day was less than when they were eating irregular meals. Furthermore, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and glucose control were better when eating regular meals.
Skipping breakfast and missing meals may actually contribute to weight gain and poor cardiovascular risk profile in women.  No matter how busy your life is, give yourself and your loved ones regular, healthy meals.

Weight and Age

Most women assume they will gain weight around the time of menopause. Results from a large study³ of midlife women shed new light on this issue. The study measured 3,064 ethnically diverse, non-menopausal women aged 42–52 years over three years. On average, women gained 4.5 pounds (or 3% of their body weight) and saw their waist circumference increase by about one inch. This result was not surprising.
What the investigators also saw was that going through menopause or becoming perimenopausal did not influence weight gain. This finding was interesting since most people believe that it is the change in hormonal status that kicks in the weight gain. The study also showed that women who maintained a high level of physical activity or became more physically active (regardless of when they started) did not gain weight. In fact, the women who became more physically active over the three years actually lost a little weight and reduced their waist size.
Again this study confirms that age matters less—it's what you do that counts!  Following the basics of a healthy lifestyle will have a positive effect for you and those in your care.

http://www.strengthforcaring.com/manual/food-fitness-and-wellness-healthy-lifestyle/healthy-lifestyle-basics/


Impart a Legacy of Health http://www.strengthforcaring.com/manual/food-fitness-and-wellness-healthy-lifestyle/impart-a-legacy-of-health/

Life's Sustenance........Our strength

Over the years there have been ups and downs. One thing that I know I can always rely on is God. Only God will continue to give us the strength and the resources to restore the community and even make it even better than its ever been.

Isaiah 40:28-31  Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God,   the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint,   and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary,and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;   they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary;   they shall walk and not faint.

#thankingtheeverlastingGodwhofaintsnot

Be Blessed

Children Eye Health and Safety

It is a good idea to have your child's eyes and vision examined by an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist) at least once a year. Scheduling this around your child's birthday is a good way to remember to do it (and is also a birthday gift of sight!). Do not wait until your child complains of blurred vision, red eyes, and/or headaches. And do not rely on the school's vision screening program because that is designed to only detect the more common eye and vision problems (pink eye, nearsightedness, etc.) in asymptomatic children.
Children often do not know how they should be seeing because they assume everyone sees the way they do. Because of this, the American Optometric Association recommends that all children receive a professional eye and vision examination at critical stages in their visual development. These critical stages are

• By six months of age
• At 3 years of age
• Before first grade
• At least every year between ages 6 and 18 while they are continuing to grow

By having your child's eyes examined at these critical stages of development, permanent vision loss from amblyopia ("lazy eye") and other pediatric eye diseases can be prevented. But children at any age with signs and/or symptoms of vision problems, like red eyes, tearing eyes, unusual sensitivity to light, eye pain, or squinting should be examined as soon as possible.
http://www.netwellness.org/healthtopics/eye/children.cfm

FAQ for eye health- http://www.netwellness.org/healthtopics/eye/