Believe In The D.e.v.a In You!

The Key That Can Lock Your Understanding.....

2012-02-09T07:47:00.000-08:00

...it's all inside of you.

Unconditional Love!

I am home, relaxing and drinking an organic green tea that i have sweetened with a dose of organic honey! Yummy! All morning i have been soaking my soul and spirit in the sweet sounds of my favorite gospel singers. I love it when the presence of God is dancing in my home. It brings a sense of peace and joy.

My silly twins...lol

I see it in the faces of my boys as they crack their jokes and discuss their new cooking discoveries. Even when they are silent and focused on the Food Channel (they are both studying Culinary in school and are Chefs at "Earl's Dining) and say nothing, i see the peace of God in their eyes. I see through their souls. It is so amazing.

The blessing God brought into my life...

I dare you to try God for a month! There will be no other being that you will look too.

Enjoy this beautiful song. Close your eyes and feel the music while you pay attention to the lyrics. Let me know what happens.

Keep the dream alive, don't let it die!

Love you and thank you for encouraging me to be the best i can be. xoxoxoxo

Make The Time..................

2012-02-08T03:44:00.000-08:00

I have been battling the cold since my Captain, soon to be 4 year old, passed it onto me. Sleeping at night has been a challenge due to the stuffiness.....OR.....i believe it is due to my Saviour wanting to stay up and talk a little. There were many times prior to my operation, he would awaken me and i would say, "but Lord i am soooo tired, can we chat when i get up." I need you now because you are going to get too BUSY, when you wake up.

This time, i listen. I meditate on His words and i answer. Most of the visions i have been blessed with lately are occurring in the middle of the night. I remember a time, just recently (before Dec 26) when i would awake at night and would not be able to go back to sleep and not think anything of it, apart from why on earth can't i sleep right now?

I tossed all night and finally shut my eyes after 3am, i awoke laying on my left side of my body by just opening my eyes very suddenly. I was face to face with His beautiful creation. The big bright full moon we had this morning at 5:20am I am still here starring at it. So real and so close up. There is a Juliet balcony in my bedroom, therefore the side i sleep on faces the long glass door with all windows accessing the balcony. It is moving slowly and has now moved out of sight. But i can't stop thinking about, "why God created that big bright ball." Imagine living n a pitch dark world, when it is already scary out there as it is,,, .Hhhm i am sure many scientists would love to create something like "a moon" lol.

I said a small prayer last night after my bible study class, and expected to sleep straight through the night and sleep in (Captain slept at dads). However, He wanted more of me. What a feeling huh? So i stayed up and let me tell you, His presance is all over this room. When you feel Him so closely, you can't help but to start talkin, lol! Because He is right there beside you.

The Lord wanted me for Himself 100% and wanted to bring pure joy into my life. So He brought me out of the enemies hands and promised that "if i draw nearer to Him and promise to put Him first above all things, He will never leave me nor forsake me. Above all He tells me if i desire this intimate relationship with Him, He will never let me down. He will bring me through the toughest storms and protect me from all harm. But i must awake when He moves me and MAKE THE TIME.............for communication" He keeps His word.

I may or may not go back to sleep, or i may just lay here enjoying more of Him.

Is This What Our Beautiful Country Has Come Too?

2012-02-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

It devastated me to receive this email along with a call from my dear friend Ernie. You are probably wondering what could this be?

In a country with amazing opportunities and kind/giving beautiful hard working men and women. We are blindly fooled by sidewalk green bins that are encouraging us to give to homeless, unemployed and unfortunate individuals our clothing, shoes and toy donations. Yes, we are touched and moved so we (i don't like green bins) drop off our blessings assuming souls will be touched and then left with the thoughts that we have done our part in our "giving"

Please log onto this link to read the full article that was released just days ago. You will be blown away.

Clothing Bin Wars....A Shame!

The 30 Second Rule!

2012-01-27T14:59:00.000-08:00

Good day my readers. Hope you had an awesome day and hope you are smiling. It helps. I will always smile, till the day ( many years from now) the Lord is ready to dance with me :-)))

My Naughty who brought laughter to the room everyday and sneaked a nurses outfit out of their cupboard....lol

While in the hospital, there were many many stories i had heard from both the doctor's, nurses and above all patients. Life changing stories that truly gave me the appreciation, better yet strength, to be able to even walk down the hall more often then i should have. Every time i saw a patient alone and sad, i stopped to put a smile on their face. I thanked God for all the love and support i had and knew right then and there that if i had been alone, i would not have made it. Most of these patients, actually all, were old. Over 60 and most in their 70's and 80's. I was surrounded by wisdom! :-) What better place would God place me.....for a short time. Every night the "code blue" was announced more then once..... I heard cries in the middle of the night from patients who knew they were alone and wanted a nurse or Dr. to comfort them. I sat and cried tears of sadness while listening to a Dr. comfort a nurse that said she "doesn't like to be alone." She was 82 years old. He told her stories that made her laugh and stayed with her until she fell asleep. I guess i fell asleep too.

Every time they did a shift turn over, and there were many, as it was Christmas, all the part timers were working, the nurses would come in to do an assessment (every 2 hours) and with a big smile say, "ohhh my yess you are young....you are the young one....oh look at you..you are so tiny, you are the miracle child.....wow you look so strong, it's def your age huh?" I would answer, "no, it's God." We'd have a genuine laugh to that one. lol. I was surrounded by nothing but LOVE. I have described this entire experience as heavenly. I do not know what other word to use. Yes the nurses and doctor's sat with many of these old angels to comfort them, but the same ones sat and shared many tears of joy with me as well. It did not matter who the patient was. It was pure compassion. I did not know that nurses were allowed to hug patients and it was all i got and saw around me every day. I had never laughed this much in my life. They could hear my visitors from down the hall laughing and said they wanted to join in.lol. There are tears in my eyes as i remember the feeling so well. One nurse (one of my fav) would sit and share stories of her 15 year daughter who survived bone cancer and a rough journey at 13. I never wanted to talk about my incident because it was nothing compared to hers. Her tears pierced through me and all i could feel was God. In me and in her. EVERY nurse or Dr. i was surrounded by was Christian or spiritual. Maybe Catholic, i am guessing. I was truly in the arms of an angel.

Many nights, because i couldn't sleep, i would visit the 24-hour care room i was in for the first part of my stay, and i would stand and converse with these beautiful nurses. All women and one man, Jerry. Ohhh Jerry was a shining star. Lovely. Filled with compassion and perfectly chosen by God for this purpose. It was at these times i learned what it was to live a simple life. It was at these hours, while these souls are fast asleep, where i would stand and peep at them to ask God to please be by their side and take away their pain. It was these late hours that i would comfort a little old lady or man who was unable to sleep , like myself, walking up and down the hall ways. I was able to go at a faster pae but went very slow, at their pace, so i was one of them. It was these late hours where a Dr. shared with me and said. "you know Elizabeth, what most people do not see is that the causes to all sicknesses starts with stress. You may not be a nurse or doctor but we need more people to speak on this and help one another to understand that stress will destroy you. Not instantly, but slowly. This is where cancer, liver, kidney, heart and brain sicknesses come from. It ALL starts with stress. We must try and live like children or toddlers, they feel an angry or sad emotion now and in seconds they are playing and laughing with no memory of what upset them. I call this THE 30 SECOND RULE." I was speechless. His last words truly gave me an "AHA MOMENT." Ohhh my, i thought, that is so easy. "Scream if you have to, cry, yell....but promise yourself that you will do it for only 30 seconds or a minute at most. Face the person or problem and say, ok it's been a minute so gotta go." Wow that is so easy. Ok i will try it.

It dawned on me, that we know this stuff. Yet why do we do this to ourselves. Why do we hand people our souls to step on, spit on and destroy? We MUST stop. WE MUST STOP. Take complete of what belongs to you! Your God given life. Let's put a final end to our pain.... that we have this control of. Let's get rid of this poison and start pouring in vegetable juices, vitamins, fruits, almond milk, herbal teas, fiji water, and love.

Baby sis and i loving each second of this new journey...

I just wanna take it easy and show God that I KNOW i have survived and will not take it mightily. I LIVE FOR HIM ALONE!!!
I love you all. Take care of one another but please find a stranger, sick patient, homeless person or sick child to take care of as well. Even just one.

My Miracle Dec 26 9:10am...The Journey That Just Began

2012-01-22T16:49:00.000-08:00

I spent the day with my sons baking and enjoying quality time then the night of Christmas with my family laughing and having no care in the world. I had known my Jamaican side family (my 19 year old's family) since i was 14 and something was different this night. I was especially thankful for having them in my life and helping to raise my big son Keeno. I saw extra beauty in their eyes and was so thankful for having them apart of us. I did not want to go home and the drive home was very bad. There was a storm in Inisfil, which is where we were. I prayed the whole way home while Keeno drove. Of course, God brought us to our drive-way safely.

The next morning i woke up to heat some milk for Captain. It was 9:10am
I went to the bathroom as i usually do first thing in the morning. Ooops i had forgotten to thank God for the privilege of seeing another day of life.I will admit, too often i do this.

'Oooh my God what just happened" i told myself as i got up from what seemed to be a seizure if i had to describe it. Ok no big deal. That was weird. I went down the stairs and into the kitchen. "Oh God oh God ok what the hell was that? Now I am a bit scared." My feet went flying in the air and i landed on my tail bone hard smacking my head on the floor. Now i am nervous. But i ignored it. I grab the sippy cup and start my way up the stairs. I fall down a few flights and milk goes flying everywhere on the wall. Again another seizure? My foster son comes out of the bathroom and asks if i am ok? Of course i am ok. I am Liz. I thought. I then realize that every time i fell i blacked out. Hhhm. I got to the last stair at the top of about 15 steps and.............................I am scared. Ohhh God my sons are over me. I can barely speak. I don't want to move. I am afraid i am unable to get up. I am laying on my stomach flat out at the bottom of the stairs. What just happened. I fell down the entire set backwards doing 2 flips (i remember it) and landing on my head. Is this really happening?

This fall was the best thing God did to me.

My sister right then calls me after my son carried me up the stairs (both sons) and laid me in bed on my side. Kirk who found me and was there to go and wake up Keeno had to leave for work. He was already going out the door. Suzie says," what do you mean you don't want to go to the hospital?" and then breaks down yelling begging my son (i could hear hear) to call emergency now, I heard the fear in her voice and said ok. They arrive and now i am at the hospital. The twitching continued a few hours until i was given a pill that my sister demanded which made it stop. I am not scared now because there is no pain. Just a little curious what this was all about. I was awake and aware but very dazed out. My son, sister and brother John are at my bed side making me laugh. Each time i looked at my sister, i saw fear but i never mentioned anything. She was quiet for the most part. I thought the most this could be is epilepsy.

The x-ray of the tumor i was diagnosed with. Very shocking. God alone......

The Dr. arrives with my results. "Your blood work is fine and there is nothing wrong with your back and neck due to the fall. But we found something in your brain.....you have a pretty large brain tumor that needs to be operated on right away because it is bleeding due to the falls. We are going to put you in an ambulance right away and bring you to Trillium Hospital to have surgery."

My rock. My heart. My baby gurl. Good ol'days. Ohhhh every time i look at this pic....

.......................................................................................I don't know what to tell you happened next but i remember screaming out my sister's name crying for her to protect me, to help me, i guess. We have both gone into a serious shock. For the first time ever she couldn't. She looked like she was going to faint crying uncontrollably and my brother and son were the same. Fear and the idea of dying led me to ask the Dr. in tears "if i was going to die". I quickily reminded myself that " i am a child of God. I am a child of God." They pulled me away in a stretcher away from my family where i balled my eyes out and thought i would not make it that very moment. Confused with bad thoughts and reminded by quick positive thoughts. I looked behind me with my eyes stuck on the my family was now standing on my right. Next to the stretching they were getting me ready on. I am still staring while the stretcher was being pulled away and then they were out of site. Then i heard a voice. Literally. "Fear not for i am with the." I didn't know if it was me wanting to hear the voice or if it was Gods voice. The final results proved who's voice it was.

I am drugged up and on a lot of drugs now. I open my eyes realize i have not had surgery yet. I am so so so scared. So fast. No time to think or kiss my family. Where are they? Did they leave me here with these people? So i ask the nurse, "where is my family? Can you tell them to come in here please?" "Yes we will. In a moment." I want to yell and scream. No i can't wait, but i have no strength." These are doctor's who know what their doing Liz. All of a sudden they arrive. The ambulance went to fast. They went through all the red light. I recall telling them "Don't turn on the noise just the lights please. It's embarrassing and loud." LOL even in my moment i cracked a joke. Actually according to them, a few. I felt so safe with everyone there. So many friends and family. Too many to name. The nurses got overwhelmed with visitors. I felt safe. I know i am ok God. I knew i was not going to die even before the operation. I felt so lucky to see everyone. The laughter in the room brought up my spirits. I had not known how loved i was. So loved.

My surgery.

I was very drugged up and i never took my eyes off my son Keeno. My first love., who stood on my right side holding my hand and fighting the tears that at times he could not control. I could see that he wanted and felt he had to stay strong for me. Every time he broke down he walked off. My family was in a state of shock and fear could not control them either. But i know they tried hard. What is happening? Is this real? Why me? No don't think like that Liz. Umm no don't say that Liz. God does all things with a purpose.

The important men in my life....

They stroll me away after saying my ummm "later" to everyone very quickly. 2 people were allowed to come into the operating room so Keeno and Grandma came? Brother John wanted to kiss me too...awww. Grandma came in to to say their prayers and see me again very quickly. So Keeno looks into my eyes and his are filled with tears and says, "Mom please don't die on me. I wouldn't be able to live." It suddenly hit me. . "Keeno i won't. I promise. I will be back There is no way no way i am leaving my boys in the world alone. God no way."

Right at the moment i was about to ask them to pray for me, grandma offers to pray. I shut my eyes and see myself wrapped in the arms of the Lord. But i don't see a body or face. Just arms. I know God is with me. I know this. They kiss my forehead and i start to cry. I want to tell them that i WILL be fine and i will be back. I am unable to look at Keeno at this moment, because crying would make him sad .I want him to be strong.

The Dr. comes and says he has to take me now. Or maybe i was already in the operating room when they came. Well the room that felt cold. Everything was made of iron laid out just like the movies. They start a conversation with me but i am unable to concentrate. My eyes are wondering. I spot a very long table with many stainless steel tools. I am afraid again. I know they will be using those tools on my head. So many questions in my mind. Oh dear God. How big will this cut be? Oh maybe like 6 or 8 stitches. I suddenly see all the Dr.'s about 6 of them, walk towards the left wall and they have pencils in their hands pointing at the wall where there was 4 x-ray photos laid out. 2 on top and 2 on the bottom. It is my brain. Ohhh my goodness i see the tumor. Clear as day. It's big. Ewww that is what is in my brain? It is on the left side at the top. Will they be able to get that thing out God? What kind of tumor is it? ..........a few seconds pass. I silently call out for God......I am Ok. I can feel a sense of peace come over me. Am i suppose to feel so peaceful looking at all this? I was not afraid anymore. I think i smiled. Well at least inside i did. The Lord was in control and right beside me. The only thing i could think of were my siblings, who patiently waited and my sons. Speaking to God with their faces in my mind. They were the only ones on my mind. Although i had many loved ones, they were all that mattered at that moment. I was scared just seconds ago and the Lord knew that i could not go under with fear so He answered my call and filled me with peace. The Dr. comes to me. The surgeon. I guess. There were so many of them that looked the same in there. He asks a few questions. I was so at east and okay. I don't remember what he asked and then...... i am sleeping..........Peacefully and in the arms of God (angel..one of my fav songs; In the arms of an angel....).

I am up. I hear a lot of movement. I was very tired. There was a lot of joy, laughter and tears because i could hear them. At some point i fell asleep after they strolled me into a room. My baby sis and keeno are calling my name. My sis said i looked beautiful. I just want to hold them. What seemed like one by one apparently was 2 by 2. So many visitors. Ohh my. I heard the nurse telling the visitors they had to go and let me rest. After everyone came in and i shared jokes with them with my eyes still unable to to open permanently. I had forced them open for brief seconds. All of a suddeny when things settled down a bit with visitors i hear mommy joy outside, "i am here to see mi daughta....no no no i need fi see her." I guess the nurses were not allowing anyone else in. Visiting hours were over at 8pm and mine went until after 11pm lol They turned her away. awww. I was well aware of what just happened in regards to my surgery and started to cry my eyes out thanking God for another chance. It was a different cry. I felt so unworthy of another chance and realized how real God was. I realized i had all my senses and cried some more. I could not move my lips because they were sticking together from the dehydration. I say out loud, "Nurse please bring me some water." She replies and says, "Oh dear you can't have anything yet." "Huh are you kidding i feel like i can't breath." So they bring me a water sponge to suck. "That's all i get?" i ask.She laughs and says yes. I might as well suck my dry thumb. Ok Liz just be thankful your alive. "What time is it?" i ask. "Ohhh it is still early and you just came out of a major surgery Elizabeth. Don't worry about the time." I could not sleep and i did not sleep the whole night. They gave me "some sort of pain killers that tripped me out. I started seeing faces with bald heads at the window and butterflies swarming my roof. I pulled the covers over my head and stayed there the whole night. My cousin joked and sais all the heads were all the people that wanted to visit me. LOL!!!! The following morning the visitors started at 8am. My brother John. My stubborn beautiful brother. One after another and many times many at once.So many. So much love and support. Flowers swarmed the shelf. Teddy bears and pajama's with cute robes. The nurses started getting upset saying i need rest and it needs to stop. But i don't want it to stop. I don't want to be alone.Why are they stopping people at the door...hey they think i can't hear them so i say, " nurse who is that?" lol lol

The man that God used to save my life.

The third day the surgeon comes to see me. I felt like i saw an angel. I break down in tears and he grabs both my hands and holds them in his. "You are a miracle child." I start crying. My sister had already told me what he shared with them moments after my operation about the seriousness of it but it really hit me when he spoke those words. They were still unreal to me. "You saved my life. You are so beautiful. Thank you thank you......" I am in tears. "I was so nervous while operating Elizabeth. I was sweating head to toe because you had this particular vain that was gushing out so much blood. I didn't know how to stop it and thought of cutting it out at one point. But it would have caused too much damage to you. So i took a deep breath and slowly stitched it back into place. You had to get a blood transfusion. A lot of blood. If your sister did not sign for the blood you would not have made it. (Apparently i said no just before the operation when they asked if i wanted the blood transfusion and went on about how the blood is not clean lol lol. I would never have said that in my right mind lol) I knew i could not disappoint your sister and all those people you had out there so i took a deep breath and eventually got it all out and its clean (i had no idea how many people were out there because the last i knew it was four. Now i know it was many more). Fortunate is not even the word...Shock ...just...amazing.

God continued to work mightily as each hour passed. I spoke and mentioned His name about 20 times a day. All the nurses were angelic. They would come in and say, "oh you are the young one huh (it was all old people on that floor with the same situation but a lot worse) and the miracle child. That word still didn't hit. I know what happened and all but i mean...just soo new. I was never alone throughout the day and had a gathering for new years eve lol. It was about 40 visitors a day. Sometimes more.

Nurse Natalia (lol)

My praying teddy bear i slept
with every night from sis.

According to the nurses, i was a "super star" and that is how i felt. So loved. So special. Everyday there were a few regulars. My girls for life. My sister, who was my rock, my everything. I have always known how much she admired me, since we were kids running around on bleecker st. and since we were eachother's angel and joy while we were sad at home. Innocent little girls. Which is how we are now. Just as we were; protective little girls. Then there was Natalia, Ernie, Snoopy, Yinka, Debbie, mommy Joy and family, Jolleene, Colleen and Ms.Veena who kept shopping for me. She had her own situation that needed much attention, and it is what i was giving her prior, yet she became my own personal nurse. She even bathed me like a mother bathes her child. I got to wear a different pajama set almost everyday. I think they all brought me a beautiful robe. I have never had this many robes lol.What women, i tell you. I had not touched the hospital food once except the time they brought me a fresh fruit platter set that was a special order.. These girl's brought me more food daily that i could even eat. So much of it just sat there. They understood that my appetite was not the same yet, but wanted to make sure i was ok.The bond that we all created was beyond beautiful. Amazing. Angelic. No words could describe the love we shared. The appreciation. The tears of joy. The stories. Quality time spent loving each other. Gary, who i have know for many many years became apart of out bond. Speaking about the Word, daily. He strengthened me. It was all so REAL. It was what God has given us life for.

Sis washing my hair for the first time. Just as we did as kids.

Removing my staples. Being a big suck. Naty took a million pictures. Truly paparazziat work...

My recovery has been going along very rapidly. Against all odds my senses are all 100% and all that i need to do now is take it easy and go slow, FOR NOW lol. I got a new hair cut and i tell you i love it. My soldier Ernie (Blanket Project) blessed me with a barber at the hospital. Yup right at my service. hhhmm some things never change lol lol playing. Of course the busy body that i am i has not been taking the whole "stay in bed thing" serious as i am suppose too. While i was in the hospital the one book in the bible that was constantly brought up and prayed about was Psalms 91. My favorite. I had many true people of God pray over and with me. It was beautiful. Days where there were 15 to 20 people at a time, all holding hands and praying with me in JOY. When i was constantly asked, " Liz it's so shocking. Why you? You are such a great person....." I would stop them in their words. "Why not me? I am so glad i have been chosen.

Quality time is all that matters.

God Shook me up a bit. He used me to you all how REAL He is. He wanted my story to change your lives. How i know that? Because log onto youtube and watch these stories. He protected me the entire time and never let me go." He purposely saved me from a situation that ....well let's not go there. He has made this entire journey so beautiful. New. Amazing. Real." He has given me a final chapter to my book. To my story, that sadly never had a final chapter....because the chapter it did have was not good enough for me. I am divorced and the divorce was very ugly. I never speak publicly about this. Because of shame. So the Lord gave me a survival story to speak about.

My Jo Jo...loyal to the end. Myyy ohhh myyy true beauty....

My surprise home gathering party. What a surprise. One of the best days of my life.

Now i am good and ready and proud of my divorce and everything else God has removed me from and saved me from. I have been blessed with three beautiful boys that love me dearly. That i will not leave out in this selfish world......i am sooo ready for whatever He has prepared for me. I have learned to wait on His time.

To all my blog readers who have patiently waited for the next blog. I would not leave you...noway...just waited for the right time to post this. Thank you for your emails and please believe that God is real. Look out for a very life changing documentation that i will be taping this week. I will be letting you into my world....for the first time :-)

I was blessed with a professional Photoshop after my miracle by a very beautiful woman clare@gleegraphics.com

Enjoying a moment with Claire's dog "Winnie" who who was lovin me up.

Search within you to find what it is that God has called you for. Listen to His words because they will never fail you. Ernie and i are desiring Gods purpose now more then ever and have so many for Project Blanket. A ministry i can't wait to get back out there to do. lol Enjoy!

I have not done spell check. Just read and enjoy. Thank you.

I'm Running On Low Today!

2011-12-22T08:38:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, my little one (Captain) ran into the kitchen and said "mommy mommy i saw a mouse" in an excited way. As if he had found it, killed it and had it in his hand (lol) I did not believe him but there was a small part of my that did. I brushed it off. Just goes to show you, we must listen to our kids. Anyhow last night my two older ones, Kirk and Keeno came into my room all excited and said, "mom, you know that mouse that Captain said he saw? We just saw it and tried to get it but we don't know where he ran off too." NOW I WAS UP AND SCARED TO DEATH! I said a bunch or things; Get it, Kill it, how did it get in here, this house is so clean and it's bran new...ohhh myyyy...ohhhh myyyy....and can't remember the rest. I got out of bed and ran downstairs to see where they saw it.

Let me tell you this, i would never imagine a mouse would want anything to do with a "clean house." I mean why would he/she/it? There is nothing to munch on, on the floors or dirty corners to hide in. But, much to my surprise, because we live in a bran new complex that is still under major construction, apparently the winter days are too cold for these little buggers, so they run in for heat through open cracks or holes.

Okkkk, i have not slept all night. I am totally running on LOW today. I could not stand the idea of having that bugger all up in my space! Like nooowayyy!!!! I woke up, drove Captain to school and headed straight to Canadian Tire to purchase whatever trap kills these guys FAST! I bought 5 packs of "stuff" and when i came home, i did not even want to touch the traps. I woke up my son Kirk, and made him do it. He stood there laughing at me. One of the traps that came in a pack had 4 individual traps in it. It's the cardboard's with the sticky glue on it and when the mouse steps on it, he gets stuck and dies. Now my only problem is, i will see it dead on the board. Oh goodness. The other ones are the regular traps.

All i have to say is, it better hurry up and get caught or i am calling the pest control (lol) Oh what a day. I am sitting in the dining room listening out for it (lol) I can't believe i am so afraid of something that is the smaller then my pinky finger. Ohhh boyyyy......

I Got Excepted

2011-12-16T08:59:00.000-08:00

I have thought about blogging about this or NOT blogging about it. But then after i prayed and gave God thanx, i decided "it's ok"

Lately i have had the urge to foster another child, only i want a girl this time. I have always fostered boys at home, and i felt the need to make a difference in young girl's life. I feel i have so much to offer a girl. Besides i always wanted a daughter :-))) Maybe God never wanted me to have "one just like me" as my dear mother would put it. My sister and her husband filed to be foster parents a few weeks back and got excepted. I was and am so happy for them. They are going to be such an inspiration for that young girl. Perfect role models. It is the most rewarding thing a person can do.

After much research into the company, i decided to call for a "home visit." When they got to my house, what was suppose to be one hour ended up more then 2 hours. We laughed, chatted, shared stories and laughed some more. It was so uplifting. To my surprise, after sharing a bit of my world with this lady (who has been doing home visits with foster parents for 32 years) she looked at me and said, "you are one of the bravest and strongest ladies i have ever met. I feel blessed to be sitting here with you." I shared my website with her, my blog, my Project Blanket videos, my work and volunteering that i have done with youth and more. But above all, it was MY STORY that had her speechless. She could not understand how i got so much done, after having gone through what i did with my childhood, my teens, my twenties, being a single mother, the love for my children and of course my divorce (which i don't talk about here).

I got excepted and start my training along with my sister in Jan. I told her i would love a "girl" and she believes i have a lot to offer a girl. Many of the girls in care, have been abused and she believes i can offer a lot to help her get passed that and live out her full potential. I believe so too.

Lately i have been very emotional. I think a lot of it has to do with the holidays and our Project Blanket.
I don't believe Christmas is about presents. I believe it is a time to share with someone something you have. Be it time, words of wisdom, your story, God, a meal or maybe just to tell someone how much you love and appreciate them. This life i have is not about ME. I have been chosen by God to make a difference in this world. My dear friend Ernie told me a quote this morning that touched my heart, "If you can't feed a hundred, then feed ONE" Mother Teresa.

BE A WOMAN AFTER GODS OWN HEART!

End this year with a positive MOVE! There are a million ways you can make a difference. Please do it!

Thank You God for Choosing Us!

2011-12-12T16:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of the most beautiful and fulfilling days of our lives (Ernie and i). We were up late the day and night before; collecting donations and preparing food. We laughed, cried and laughed some more. We were fortunate enough to have a dear friend of mine Dalley and his mother join us.

Dalley & Ernie

This is Dalley's second year with Project Blanket. Both last year and this year he offered to bring all the donations in his van, not only did he do that, he was in no hurry to leave. His mother (God bless her soul) helped us prepare sandwich's and snacks for our dear friends downtown as well. It was amazing. We woke up early and hit the road. We all met at my house.

Ains (our camera friend) was right by our side the entire time. From the day and night before to the DAY OF for the entire day. He was truly God sent! What a friend.

We hit the road just after 8am. When we got downtown, much to our surprise, there was already a lot of people outside the shelter. We had a few friends meeting us; Nicole Stiletto along with Al and a few other wonderful ladies.

Our new found friend (in the middle)

We got started right away and believe it or not we stayed all day. We had so much fun. Even when there were only a few people out there after our many rushes, who decided to just hang out after they were fed and clothed. I didn't want to go home. Ernie and i would have stayed all evening.

These people, both men and women are REAL people with a REAL story. They are beautiful. They have soul in their eyes. They were so happy to have us there all day. Many of them mentioned they have never seen anyone stay out there for so many hours. We barely noticed the time go by. There were a few stories that i brought home with me and laid in my warm bed with my warm sheets and duvet and cried my eyes out just thinking about them. If i could have, i would have brought them home. All i want in this life is to be OK; Enough to help in the little i can. My dream one day is to own a women's, men and children center called "The D.e.v.a In You Club"

We seen a few people come and go with sandwich's and even hot meals. A newly wed couple came with a trunk full of food containers and explained to me that the ladies get together early in the morning at the mosque and prepare the food. She said the children come out to the mosque too and it's like a big family affair. God, it's so amazing to see that people like this exist. Then another lady and her husband (again) came and handed out socks and sandwich's. My heart was so uplifted to see this.

Here we are with another found friend in the middle

I just want to say THANK YOU to all the people that donated. Thank you for the monetary gifts as well. Thank you to all our volunteers. Many of them were Ernie's friends and believe me, you were so appreciated.

Next year we are hoping to make it bigger; with HOT meals or frozen Turkey's for the areas near by the shelter. We are praying that God will bless us with wonderful people in our lives who will help us to make that happen.

Thank you and stay tuned for the footage. We love you!

Project Blanket Drive for The Homeless

2011-12-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Good morning to all my friendly bloggers and readers. This is a reminder that the annual Project Blanket Drive for the homeless is this weekend. We are doing our runs tomorrow to pick up any donations and also to stop at Value Village to purchase items.

Please make a monetary gift as little as $5 to $10 to our email at projectblanketdrive@gmail.com
Every bit counts. If you have donations such as blankets or coats, please let us know and we will arrange a pick up spot or you can also drop them (that does not matter) off to us. It is up to you.

Last year we collected hundreds of items and made many trips downtown to drop them off in person to our homeless friends. My friends, this is such a serious problem in the GTA. Most people don't want to think about it but we need to face it and do what we can to make a difference. This area downtown is dear to my heart because i grew up on those very streets watching drug addicts and dealers, prostitutes and homeless people give their souls away for whatever reason and all they want to see is a little bit of hope. The world has given up on these people, but i have NOT! So please join forces with me and make a difference.

Here is a clip Ernie and i created from last years journey. We record this so that you can all see how serious it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMYjxjGn_8g

Again if you have any monetary donations please email us at projectblanketdrive@gmail.com

Who Do You Pray For?

2011-11-30T08:13:00.000-08:00

Last night while Captain and i laid in bed and said our prayers, i realized something amazing; he never forgets anyone while praying. This is why our prayers take a longgggg time (lol). Not only does he do that, but he explains what he is praying for. For example, "I pray for Dinga (my sister) that her boo boo on her arm will go away fast.....i pray for Ms.Barnes that she will always be a good teacher......i pray for mommy that you will always be nice to me and that your car will always work (lol).....i pray for Titi Soni (my brother).......and it goes on and on."

I had an aha moment last night when i realized how much time we take to pray. It's not how long you take to pray that counts, but what and who you are praying about. What are you saying? Do you remember the crossing guard? Or all your friends? Their children? How about your neighbors? Or your pastor and his wife? Your parents (i sure hope so) Your siblings, their souses and kids. Your aunts or uncles in another country. The homeless. The thousands of people living in poverty or the ones who did not have a meal to eat for days. Are you thanking God for what you HAVE? Instead of asking for more.

Shelter. Food. Clothes on our backs. Our health. Our job. Education. Your eye site. Legs. Arms. Or a bed to sleep on. Milk for the kids. Your car. Or the buses that you have access too. The sun. Rain. Snow...instead of complaining about it. Your business. Your boss; are you praying for him / her? Gran-parents. But above all, your kids? What are you praying for when it comes to them? Tonight, i ask you to take a few moments while praying and pray diligently. Don't rush. Because remember God sees and hears you. I mean, isn't that why and who you are praying too?

We must spend more time in our prayers. You don't have to scream or yell or do what you may see others do....just humble your self and think about what you are praying for and about. Focus on your prayers. Wait and listen for Gods voice. He is there.

Today i thank God EVERYTHING he has given me and everything he has taken from me. Even when things seem to hurt you and you don't understand why??? Remember if you are a child of God (which we all are) then isnt that His job, to protect you? Ok, so don't argue with Him regarding loosing someone or something. He is a perfect God.

He Makes Me Smile All The Time!

2011-11-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day. Everyday is a great day. As long as i can wake up, see my kids, eat and have a roof over our head, it's a great day. God is good.

When i woke up this morning, with Captain right next to me (and not in his own bed) i just laid there and stared at his beautiful face and smiled. I smiled because the last thing i remember is the hard time he gave me to go to sleep and just like every night he told me that he "had to sleep with you mommy" lol. I made his warm milk with Ovaltine and before i woke him up to drink it, just like every morning, i kissed him up all over his face. Of course he woke up. He acts like he doesn't like it but when i stop he grabs my face back down to his. God i love that boy. It takes him about 5 minutes to wake up, fully. He drinks his milk and then feels much better. As if i fed him some type of energy juice. lol.

He asked for his DS game so i went and got it. He laid there and said, "mommy come beside me and kiss my face like you always do so i can take pictures of us to send to daddy." I started laughing because what does this 3 and a half year old know about "sending pictures." Ohhh boy.

So we took the pictures and got ready for school. Despite how much Captain does not listen (at times...many times) he is the joy of my life. The love of my life. Everytime i look at him (even when i am upset) i smile. When he is away from me at school, and i think of him, i smile.

He truly saved my life!

Don't Worry Yourself Sick - Literally!

2011-11-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful weekend. Church was probably the highlight of it all. The pastor spoke about stress and what it does to our bodies and mind. He mentioned that it is one of the leading causes of many diseases and sicknesses in the world. I thank God for this man in my life. he is truly a disciple, a teacher...a prophet.

I truly believe that is true and when i got home, i researched it and YES it is in fact the truth. We may not feel like "our worries and stress" will give us cancer at some point, but it will. I mean there are so many other diseases, even the ones we think are minor ones; like high blood pressure. I don't take any of it lightly. Awhile back my iron was very low. At first i was like "Oh Dr. why is that?" Like HELLLOOO....of course it was low. I was not eating right at all and was not talking my iron vitamins, as i use too. But above all, i was stressed. Although i didn't feel stressed, i was. We don't always feel it because we are so busy going going going....Not eating well and stress combined....is trouble. Look around you. Do the math.

Everyone i know who was under stress or did not eat and live right got sick at some point. The bible talks about the way we should be eating. God never intended on his children to eat McDonald's, cookies, cakes, fried foods and the list goes on. He wants us to eat fruits, veggies, fish etc. Food that will do our mind and body good.

Look, I'm one to talk. I need to stop the sweet tooth cravings too. I tend to go up and down a lot. But i need to stay faithful to what i know God wants me to do.

What is the point of stressing or worrying? What difference will it make? Most of us stress over finances (i know the feeling), but there is nothing we can do. I just got another job to help out my issues a bit. Some people work 2, 3 and even 4 jobs. I know this is going to be hard for me with school starting in Jan but i got to do it. I'm looking at the bigger picture here. If Captain (my 3 year old) is going to be in sports all the time; then i need money. We have bills, food, mortgage/rent, gas, personal expenses, insurance; life and car...and it goes on. We have to pay to LIVE! If it means we get a couple jobs, so be it. Complaining only adds to the problem. Believe me, i KNOW! Complaining is like poison. Only it is a slow killer. It drains us and makes us ugly and weak. I don't know about you, but I'm NOT WEAK, so the feeling of it does not do well within me (lol). We need to lift up our heads, smile and trust that God has it all under control.

From this day forth, NO MORE STRESS or worrying for me. I want to live to see my kids and grand kids get married.

Coconut Oil - The Real Deal

2011-11-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

I'm amazed on how many health benefits coconut oil has. I tell you, when you research, you find the TRUTH. I'm going to attach an article on this oil and the link to where you can go and read more. A dear friend of mine is selling the pure organic coconut oil, and yesterday while at church, he was explaining the benefits to me and where this pure oil comes from. He said, "Liz everyone on this planet should be using coconut oil; to cook with, use on our skin-The benefit of coconut oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil, our hair and even drinking it." I was sold. Although i have been hearing about this for a long time, i never took it serious. It is also a cleanser and a form of loosing weight. It's magical. It is truly from God. As believers, we should use nothing but Pure Organic Coconut Oil.

Please read this article found here....

Coconut oil consists of more than ninety percent of saturated fats (Don’t panic! First read to the last word. Your opinion may change), with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Virgin Coconut Oil is no different from this. Let us have a bit detailed study of this.

The Saturated Fatty Acids: Most of them are Medium Chain Triglycerides, which are supposed to assimilate well. Lauric Acid is the chief contributor, with more than forty percent of the share, followed by Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, Myristic Acid and Palmitic.
The Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Linoleic Acid.
The Monounsaturated Fatty Acids: Oleic Acid.
The Poly-phenols: Gallic Acid, which is phenolic acid. These poly-phenols are supposed to be responsible for the fragrance and the taste of Coconut Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in these poly-phenols.
Certain derivatives of fatty acid like Betaines, Ethanolamide, Ethoxylates, Fatty Esters, Fatty Polysorbates, Monoglycerides and Polyol Esters.
Fatty Chlorides, Fatty Alcohol Sulphate and Fatty Alcohol Ether Sulphate, all of which are derivatives of Fatty Alcohols.
Vitamin-E and Vitamin K and minerals such as Iron.

Let us explore the benefits of this oil in our hair:

Hair Care:

Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It helps in healthy growth of hair providing them a shiny complexion. Regular massage of the head with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff, lice, and lice eggs, even if your scalp is dry. Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care. It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair. It is therefore used as hair care oil and used in manufacturing various conditioners, and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically for hair care.

Please visit Organic Facts for this entire article. You will be amazed. Don't wait to long before adding this oil to your diet. If you would like to know where you can purchase this, please contact me at elizabeth@devainyou.com

I'm Praying and Fasting for DIRECTION!

2011-11-11T08:17:00.000-08:00

When i woke up this morning, my plan was not to fast this weekend. I have not fasted in awhile. But then my good friend Vanessa called and put it in my heart that i must pray and fast this weekend. The funny thing was it was on my heart to fast but i ignored it. Baddd Liz. That is when we get into trouble. When we don't listen to Gods voice or for those of you who are not spiritual, it would be your gut (trust me that's God).

I know today a lot of people do not fast. I find the longer they have been in church, the longer they go without fasting. Let me tell you fasting is more important now then EVER! Look around you. Our world is falling apart. Destruction is everywhere. Fasting and praying are appropriate for all believers of all ages throughout all centuries every part of the world. I believe through the years that most churches have not taught "fasting and prayer" therefore many people don't do it....anymore.

If you want a breakthrough in your life, then FAST and prayer. Trust me.
I found this article while researching "fasting" online today. I will quote a part i found to be so true.

"That breakthrough might be in the realm of the spirit. It may be in the realm of your emotions or personal habits. It may be in the realm of a very practical area of life, such as a relationship or finances. What I have seen repeatedly through the years-not only in the Scriptures but in countless personal stories that others have told me -- is that periods of fasting and prayer produce great spiritual results, many of which fall into the realm of a breakthrough. What wasn't a reality . . . suddenly was. What hadn't worked . . . suddenly did. The unwanted situation or object that was there . . . suddenly wasn't there. The relationship that was unloving . . . suddenly was loving. The job that hadn't materialized . . . suddenly did.
The very simple and direct conclusions I draw are these: First, if the Bible teaches us to do something, I want to do it. I want to obey the Lord in every way that He commands me to obey Him. And second, if fasting and praying are means to a breakthrough that God has for me, I want to undertake those disciplines so I might experience that breakthrough!
Every person I know needs a breakthrough in some area of his or her life. I am no exception. I need breakthroughs all the time -- it may be a breakthrough in understandhttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7796882312118537010ing a situation, a breakthrough answer to a problem, a breakthrough idea, a breakthrough insight, a breakthrough in financial or material provision, a breakthrough in health. If you have any need in your life, you need a breakthrough from God to meet that need! Fasting and prayer break the yoke of bondage and bring about a release of God's presence, power, and provision." By CBN.com

Do you ever notice when you eat a meal it's hard to pray after. You feel either lazy or like you don't want to do anything, much less pray. When you are lifting up the Lord in prayer, there is a certain power in your words. When you are speaking it out loud through your lips, there is power in that. We have more strength spiritually when we are on an empty stomach.

Think of it this way...what did Eve use to entice Adam? FOOD!

Pray for me as i pray for you. Today, I'm praying for DIRECTION this weekend. In my life. Career, family and my ministry.

They Kick Your Behind!

2011-11-10T09:41:00.000-08:00

I feel amazing. Awesome. Strong and happy. I'm telling you, when i workout consistently i feel so healthy and i even eat healthier. When I'm not in the gym, or doing something physically active, I'm lazy and i eat all the wrong things. I have a sweet tooth that seems to pop up on me at those times. I have not been very faithful in the gym at all since July. I gained about 8 pounds this summer which for me is not good because I'm only 5 feet. There was something about the gym that was not motivating me. I tried it all. Had my music going loud in my ears, had all the right gear (clothing) on and even bought a great pair of working out sneakers....but i just wasn't feeling it.

A dear friend of mine told me about Paul's Boot Camp which is a 2 minute drive from my house. I live borderline Vaughan and Brampton. It is located at Zenway and Hwy 7. I drive by there all the time on my way to work at the wedding studio. Each time i drove by i could hear the excitement inside. Loud music and loud women (lol). So one day i walked in and asked if i could do a trial, and they said "of course."

OHHHHHH myyyyyy let me tell you, it was the most amazing workout i have ever done. I mean that. I was soaked. I did an Academy 3 class, which i would not recommend for a beginner, but i was amazed. I immediately signed up for the trail month. That was a month and a half ago. There is no better way to go then this. Within 4 days i saw results.

I found as soon as i hit my 30's i started getting lazy with the gym. I would go like 3 times a week compared to 5 times a week. PBC makes you wanna go to every class. It's fun, energetic, loud and the ladies are all amazing! We have a blast there. Seriously. I never talk to people at the gym but I'm the real "Liz" when I'm at PBC.

I encourage if you to take a look at their website right here and try a class that fits your schedule and needs. You will thank me.

Do Something About It!

2011-11-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

What is laying around in your house that is over due? What do i mean? Well, it could be dry cleaning or hemming those pants that have been laying there in a bag for a couple months. Or pictures you would like to place in frames. Maybe organizing your closets or getting those heels on those three pairs of shoes fixed. I don't know what it is, but i just dropped off a bag of boots at the shoe repair that i was thinking about throwing away. Now, these boots are practically new with scuffed heels. That's it. But that is not what made me keep them in a bag for the past 2 years, it is the fact that i got these boots from a company i use to work for called "Lindsay Perry" a high end shoe line based out of Toronto but sold in stores like Holt Renfrew...i was an account executive at this company and received many shoes and boots for free due to the fact that i wore a sample size shoe. So when there was a little mark or mistake in a stitch, they would give me the shoes free of charge. They cost anywhere between $300-$1000 Yes i know, insane.

So before i threw them out, after i saw what my sister did to her shoes at the shoe repair, i decided to take a trip there. All together for 6 pairs, the total was $100. Can you believe that? I was in shock. I get to save all those expensive and very nice boots for $100. WOW!

What is it that you have been putting off? Is it a trip to the dentist? Your morning walks or jogging? Bringing your pet to the vet? Have you been thinking about scrap-booking? Do you want to take cooking classes? Start it TODAY! Make a call or first step! Do something about it.

Make sure to email me and fill me in......:-)

What Are Your Plans?

2011-10-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

With Christmas holidays around the corner, we are busy making plans, deciding where to go and who to spend time with.....right?

Your probably going back and forth on who is really worth your precious time on such an important holiday. Well, let me tell you this (as i have done a lot of thinking too) If you have family, brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles, cousins etc, then spend it with them. Even if you have not seen them in years or have a grudge against them for whatever reason, reach out to them this Xmas. Make this year a special one. Please do yourself that favor.

Truthfully, there is not joy, like being with your family. Nothing is worth your time away from them. Look, i spent so many years (many years ago) away from my family. Every xmas or thanksgiving i cried inside wondering what they were doing. Today, noway! Every holiday, we are together. All of us. If there are people who don't speak (still) then i share my time between them. But nothing is more important to me then my familia!

Stop looking for reasons why you don't speak to someone. So they did you wrong or said something to offend you, so what! Grow up. No I'm serious. There is nothing you can tell me that i have not been through, unless its "doing drugs" otherwise i have been there, done that! So i know what it feels like to be hurt, betrayed and abandoned......But i give God thanx for my life and for my parents and family EVERYDAY! Despite my story. If it was not for them, i would not have a story. So please make a difference in your life NOW.

Don't go on another minute without PEACE. Make a difference! Do not allow pride to get in your way.
If you have not yet read it, go and but A NEW EARTH by Eckart Tolle. The book talks about and describes the different types of "pride" that we deal with on an everyday basis.

I try so hard not to let "pride " get in my way. It's hard but I'm working on it.
When it comes to my family, i don't care how i look, i will say sorry or forgive me. Even when i have not done anything wrong. Because i know the difference it will make. Period.

I love you all and hope this blog has made a difference in your "Holiday Plans"

What Is With All This Garbage?

2011-10-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

These are actually real photos taken the "day of"

Ok, so Captain and i were taking the bus yesterday and out of nowhere he says, "ewww mom this is disgusting"
and as i looked down i could not believe my 3 and a half old was talking about the litter on the floor. Honestly what is this world coming too? I live in a BRAN new development. It is less than a year old and look what is happening at the bus stops ALREADY!

Why? How hard is it to throw your coffee cup or can of pop or even a bag of chips in the garbage. Ok so there is no garbage in sight....so hole onto it until you get onto the bus. That's what i do. Even my Captain does not throw his litter on the floor. It's nasty and wrong. Think of what you are doing to the air, the pollution. Even if you are not a "green" kinda person, please just make a difference. It's so wrong.

Moments after we saw this, a gentleman came and stood by us to wait for the bus. He was drinking a cup of Tim Horton's coffee and when he was done with it, he threw it on the floor. Before i was even about to open my mouth, Captain said "heeyy you can't do that. You have to put it in the garbage." The man was in shock and picked it up and said, "ok son, i will."

I was so proud of my son.

Please please make a difference. What will Brampton or any other city look like 5 years from now? Do we really want our children raised in that kind of environment?

Are You Following Me?

2011-10-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

First, do you like my new color? :-)))I love it...

Ok ladies and gents, i need your help here. I need you to click on the FOLLOW button on the right hand side of this screen. I looked at my "stats" this week which i have not done in months and noticed that this week alone, i had 172 viewers on my main page for the blog. Now that is insane considering there is not many followers. So what is it? I mean why don't you just follow my flog and join along?

I hear so many bloggers complain about this and never felt the need to comment as i enjoy blogging and did not care how many followers i had. But, after a "business marketing workshop i did this week, it started bothering me. Because i really do write for YOU so i want to see that you are following me.

So if you read this, then simply click on the FOLLOW button and join this journey with me.

Make Today A Happy Day!

2011-10-18T06:52:00.000-07:00

When i woke up this morning and gave God thanx for everything i have, especially for waking me up, i realized how blessed i was when i was able to go in my fridge and make breakfast, turn up the heat, look in my closet at the many shoes and clothes i have to choose from. Turn my TV on and kiss up my Captain. There are so many things i can list, but i want to name the simple things that we never think we are fortunate to have. It's actually a privilege to have these things. Turn on the news or your computer and look at what is happening around you.

Today i want you to make it a Happy Day. Smile as much as possible. Hold the door for someone coming behind you, young or old. Buy someone a tea or coffee. Tell someone how beautiful they look. Call a friend to tell them you love him/her. Start reading a book. Write down your thoughts today. Start a journal....all these things are the reason why i usually have a happy day (most days). Do not allow the small stuff to get you. Brush off the little words that may upset you. Reply with a smile. I guarantee you will be amazed at yourself. My friends, life is too short to live it in misery.

Have an awesome and blessed day!

Do You Have A Secret?

2011-10-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful morning. God is GREAT!

Colleen, Natasha and Elizabeth. The "Unique" Ladies

I woke up this morning and realized i forgot to log onto Full Circle yesterday to watch Colleen Miller speak on her "Story."
Well i have just finished watching it, and let me tell you, i feel so inspired and lucky to have this woman in my life as such a close friend. Despite having a the "Unique Group" together, Colleen and i were friends long before we started our youth events. She shared the story of being a pastor's daughter, growing up in the church and being in ministry; when she became pregnant with her "first boyfriend" (who is her husband now and they parent 2 boys) unborn child, and made the choice to abort the baby. She shares the pain of the shame she carried for 2 years alone. Out side of her very small circle of friends, she told not a soul. At the time, she was working for a crisis center that dealt with young women who were pregnant and wanted to abort the child. This was her work. She was scared and felt like a liar by working with these women after what she had just done.

Colleen knew there was a calling on her life but felt like she would never live it out until she brought that secret "out of the dark and into the light."

She finally did and has been released to LIVE her life freely and with the true power of God. Today she is helping many families, women and youth to live their lives without regret. To love. To HEAL. She is a walking testimony of what the power of Gods hand can do in your/our life.

I'm blessed to have Colleen in my life and know that i can count on her to be that voice or shoulder i need from time to time. She is never too busy for anyone. There were times i called her in the middle of the night and needed her, and she was right there. Never complained but always listened. She gave me the strength to SURVIVE!

This truly opened up my spiritual eyes on some things that i have been dealing with. She made me realize that holding secrets in the dark will never give you freedom. That the very thing you are keeping in the dark can save a life or soul. Someone may need to hear you speak. Share your story. Don't be afraid. Fear nothing but God. You will feel lighter and such a relief when you let it out. There is that saying, "The Truth Shall Set You Free" you don't even have to be in church to know this saying.

For more on the Full Circle story that Colleen shares, please log onto Colleen Speaks

If there is something in you that you have been hiding, let it out today. Call someone; your mother, father, friend, sister, brother or counselor and share your story or secret. God will use that very story in you to share with the world. To save lives. Don't be ashamed. Please.

Old = Beautiful

2011-10-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

As Captain and i were taking the bus this morning (car is in the shop AGAIN) i was very attentive and aware of my surroundings. The "bus" does that to me. We sat at the front of the bus where the elderly sit and there was a little old lady that came on with a huge pack of paper towel. She got on right in front of the Canadian Tire Store so i guessed the paper towel was on sale. There was about 15 rolls in the pack. There was this "beauty" that this woman possessed and i could not help but stare. She looked Spanish or maybe even mixed with black. Her hair was curly but she brushed it out so it looked soft and wavy. She was about 85 years old with the most beautiful olive complexion. Her freckles were perfect :-)

When she sat down, Captain moved over a seat to give her the space to sit. She frequently smiled at Captain as he sat there playing with my phone. Captain had this connection with her. He kept staring at her and smiling back. I know my son and i know he felt her gentle spirit. So did i.

I started thinking about how it's so amazing when we get old, we are like babies all over again. She walked slowly, she struggled to sit down, and you could see that she had no care in the world; just like babies, toddlers and children. Older folk have no reason to put on a "fake" show. What you see is what you get. I began thinking about my life and how i would love to have their mentality in life....now at my age. I started thinking about how she must feel when she goes to sleep at night. I wondered if she had a partner and how long they were together. I got this feeling that she was widow.

When she stood up to press the bell, Captain saw it and quickly stood on the seat to press it for her. He did it in a way that was "helpful" and she recognized it and said, "you are a special young boy." I almost started crying. It was moving. As she started walking, she dropped the paper towel. I quickly stood up and picked it up for her and stayed standing behind her in case she dropped it again. I wished we could sit and talk because i was sure she had a lot to teach me.

When she got off the bus, Captain turned to me and said, "mommy we helped her...she's nice, i like her."
Wow, i thought...at such a young age, he is aware or "pureness" and that was so beautiful. I continued the ride teaching Captain about respecting his elders and no matter what, they are usually right. I compared her to his teachers at school and family and taught him the lessons my parents taught me.

In my eyes, the older you become, the more beautiful you will be. Why? Because of the wisdom and knowledge you will gain with age. Now, that's something to look forward too huh? :-)

Just Be Smart!

2011-10-03T09:23:00.000-07:00

Some people say that when a teen is sexually active at an early age, it has something to do with "something missing" from her life. Not true. It can be a combination of many things. Parents, you could be the best parent in the world, it does not matter. It is something that is either missing in her/his life or something they are looking for. Maybe something they never had.

Sexual intercourse at an early age, having multiple partners or unprotected sex puts a teen (or anyone) at risk for a sexual transmitted infections or unwanted pregnancies. So be it either or, why is there so many of both? What will it take to wake up our young people?

I'm begging you all to please read your statistic reports on Hiv, STD's and the danger of being active unprotected.If you are active, get your physicals yearly and never do so unprotected unless you are married, or common long. Ok, i have to be a realist; or in a long term and steady relationship with one partner.

As a young teen, i use to think that my man loved me more because he didn't want to use condoms. I know that many of our young people think the same. I work with youth, so i know. This is very careless and dangerous way to live.

The reports i read this morning stated that teens between the ages of 15-17 use condoms more than 19-25
That was very surprising to me. It also states that the use of condoms have increased with teens. that is great news.

In closing, i will say this, i was also a teen once and made many mistakes. All in the name of "looking for love" (in my case it was the love i never got at home) but if i can make a difference today by telling you TO KEEP IT LOCKED up. If you are currently active, than please protect yourself. It does not mean that a man loves you when he does not want to use a condom, it means he does not care. Unless he is your spouse, long term partner or husband. It also shows that he is careless. STD's have no "look" it's invisible.

I gave birth to my first child at 18, and although he was a blessing to my life, because if i did not become a mother at 18, i may have been dead. It forced me to become a woman early. Too early. because of it, i missed out on a childhood. I received a blessing, however i lost a lot. But above all this, I'm clean 100%

I hope you come out to hear The Truth!
Saturday November 26 at The Cris Gibson Community Center
Please email me at elizabeth@devainyou.com

The Truth

2011-09-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering on this idea for a long time now, and finally decided, we all need it. After the very first time i ever got tested, getting the tests yearly became easier and easier. Now it's a walk in the park. Mind you the first time i got tested was less than 4 years ago. After i got married and just had a bran new baby. I had applied for Life Insurance and of course they tested me. I was always afraid of getting life insurance because of that test. Why? I don't know....but like many of you, i was very very nervous the first time. However, it is the best thing i have ever done. Ever. I'm sharing my story with you, because so many of us want to get tested but don't.

I invite you to this amazing FREE workshop "The Truth" Saturday November 26 from 3pm- 6pm at The Cris Gibson Community Center (Brampton north of Queen on McLaughlin)

There will be guest speakers along with someone living with Hivto speak to us.

We need to get this word out there my friends. Everyone is so afraid to speak about it. Well, not me. Let's come together and discuss The Truth. Get your teens, friends and family out this day and join in on the "convo" bring your questions and comments and let's keep it real on November 26.

Please SHARE these flyers. Don't keep it to yourself. If you know anyone who is ACTIVE, they need to be there.

I want to see you there! This is for young women and men, however it is not limited to them, if you are older and don't consider yourself "young" please come. You need to hear this too.

To reserve your seat, please email me back with the amount of seats you will need. You have 2 months to take that day off :-)))

For some reason i can't seem to upload the flyer here...so if you send me your email, i will send it to you.

Read Your Manual

2011-09-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

What a weekend....what a weekend....

Ok, so you know how we all get car manuals when we purchase a car? I have had my Audi for about 6 years. I don't owe anything on it, but i feel like i do...with all the money i have put into fixing it. It got hit a couple of weeks ago and the damage cost was $1,400 which was cool because it was the drivers fault and he chose not to go through insurance. That was fine with me, except i was without a car for a week. My son told me when he was driving the car on the weekend the "coolant" sign kept popping up and advised me to make sure i got a bottle of coolant. As i was about to take Captain skating yesterday and driving with my foster son as well, i saw smoke coming from the hood. I tell you, my God is amazing...i was turning into Canadian Tire at that exact time to buy the coolant. The mechanic knocked on my window and when i rolled it down he said, "Ms...you have a leakage under your car and its making a funny noise...." I thought to myself "noooo really?" But i did not want tot be rude.

Make a long story short, it was my timing belt. yuppp that's right/. So this means about $800 later i will have my car back. Plus i had to pay $100 to have it towed because Canadian Tire will charge me about $1,200 to fix it and they are not professionals in my eyes. My mechanic who works at Audi part time and also has his own shop, has been working on my car for about 2 years and he is amazing.

I called him crying yesterday and he has never seen me like that. He got so worried and assured me it's not the end of the world and reminded me that "I MUST READ MY MANUAL or at least look at it ever few months" okaay okaay.......i thought...

Anyway when i looked in the manual and read the section on coolant and etc (i don't know much about cars, except how to drive it and a few other minor things) i noticed it said that after a certain amount of kil on the car, to check the timing belt and this and that....I think i have looked in that manual about 3 times in 6 years. Yiikesss...that is terrible.

Ladies, please do not wait until your car breaks down before you take it to a shop. Get it checked out every 4 to six months just for the hell of it. Taking the bus is fun (more so for Captain) but my ohhh my i don't realize how much i love my baby until it's gone)

PLEASE READ YOUR MANUALS AND GET TO KNOW YOUR CAR INSIDE AND OUT!!!