Heart and Soul of Woman

Sibalasi-Multicolor Woven Bohemian Large Tote Snake Patchwork Bag ~ Review

2017-11-03T22:40:00.000-04:00

Sibalasi-Multicolor Woven Bohemian Large Tote Snake Patchwork Bag ~ Review

This Sibalasi-Multicolor Woven Bohemian Large Tote Snake Patchwork Bag is now in my top five of favorite bags. It is just as beautiful in person as it was on the Amazon website. The quality of the stitching is very good.

The bag is wide and can carry a lot but I wouldn't fill it with heavy items. The patchwork leather strips are lightweight and the straps are made of a lightweight canvas type material with leather a leather strip is sewn on it. The straps nor the sides of the bag feel like they can support heavy weight.

This is a beautiful bag with awesome colors so you can wear it with anything in your wardrobe.

I mostly like to use mine on Sunday when I go to church or a special event.

Highly recommend this bag for yourself or for a gift for a loved one. Reasonably priced

Click the link and check out more details yourself. CLICK HERE

To learn more about what we like regarding fashion and general merchandise visit our
Facebook Fan Page Fashion Accessories and General Merchandise

Lydia Brown
Shopaholic
P.S. This post contains affiliate links I may receive compensation for purchases you make using my links. That's a good thing!

HSI Professional Flat Iron Review

2017-08-20T23:00:00.001-04:00

This is the best flat iron I have used. Even better that I received it as a gift. Easy to hold doesn't feel awkward. Easy to maneuver. I love the box it came in. The temperature is just right and easy to adjust.

Many flat irons I have tried were pulling my hair and I ended up with split ends. This HSI flat iron does not pull. Without a lot of heat, I get a good straightening. Highly recommended by friends I can say they were so right. This is the best iron I've used for my hair.

For 6 months I have been natural trying to repair damaged hair. I was afraid to use a flat iron again that I wanted to have straight hair without chemicals. It's a relief that I don't have to worry about using a flat iron with HSI products.

I plan to use HSI heat protectant products and can't wait until they arrive.

I don't think you will be disappointed if you buy this product. Its a well known recommended flat irong.

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To Our Success!

Lydia Brown

New York Biology Arabica Coffee Scrub

2016-11-24T11:12:00.002-05:00

New York Biology Arabica Coffee Scrub

I used this scrub for two weeks on my body. I was amazed at how it smelled like some of the best coffee I have ever drunk. My mother kept sniffing the jar saying "wow." When I first used the scrub on my body I was nervous because other scrubs seemed so rough but that was not the case with this product. After rinsing off my body my skin felt very smooth.

Since I like using scrubs my only hope is that the company has a larger size to order. Like other products I have used by this company, there was no disappointment. When you get to my age it is important to find products that work otherwise you end up wasting money.

New York Biology gets it and understands the needs of its customers.

I plan on continuing to us this product and at the request of my mom will be getting her a jar she can call her own.

My Daily Regimen

I used the scrub daily #NewYorkBiology in the shower on my body mixing it with pure coconut oil. It did not take much to get the job done and the scrub was not messy like some I have used.

Daily use is necessary because once the cold weather comes my skin gets dry and scaly and lotion only helps so much. With the combined regimen of using the scrub in the morning and then follow up with lotion I get through the day without feeling dry and my hands don't feel rough.

When the Summer season comes I will be able to use the scrub three times a week as recommended.

If you like coffee you will love the way this aroma sticks with your memory and helps you have an uplifting day.

If you love scrubs you will love the way your skin feels smooth and soft after using. For those who have not used a scrub before you are in for a treat.

If you like to use only organic products this product is the one to chose.

To get your own and I suggest you do ====> CLICK HERE

As you can see from the picture the jar comes packed to the top with product.

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To our Success!

Lydia Brown

New York Biology Eye Gel ~ Review

2016-10-11T23:29:00.001-04:00

I used this product for two weeks. I don't get enough sleep due to my work. The bags under my eyes looked bad. After using this eye gel my puffiness under my eye went down and my skin tone began to even out.

My regimen was to use the gel in the morning and in the evening before bed. I do recommend at my age there are not too many products that seem to work and those that do are so expensive. I loved the silver box it looked expensive.

As you can see in the picture once you take the clear top off there is a white cover. You just gently push that cover down and an adequate amount of gel comes out for you to use.

It's enough to cover your whole face if you like. The gel has a faint scent like aloe you almost miss it no worries about my allergies acting up. You can purchase the Gel on Amazon Click Here

#eyecream

BEFORE USING THE GEL

AFTER USING THE GEL

My skin color has a more even tone it has lightened up. Not easy to tell from the photo

but the skin under my neck firmed up and I wasn't expecting that.

I would use this product again and look forward to seeing what changes happen over the next few weeks

#NewYorkBiology
#TopQuality
#EyeGel

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Take care until next review

Lydia Brown

Easy Home Basal Thermometer Review

2016-09-05T22:17:00.000-04:00

I was pleased when I opened my delivery to see that the thermometer came in a nice handy storage case. The actual thermometer I felt could be a little smaller at the top. I found it to be a little awkward to handle.

The light I found helpful. Purchased this as a gift for my niece and she reported that the readings have been accurate.
Easy Home provides a a well organized and easy to use chart.

As reported by my Niece: "What I did have difficult with is setting the date and clock. I followed the direction over and over but each time I clicked the bottom on top of the thermometer I could not change settings because the thermometer would turn off. So unfortunately I could not set an alarm nor did I hear any beeps to let me know if I had reached a higher or lower reading than was normal based on the instructions in the guide. Still my readings were accurate and helpful. By using the thermometer daily I used my readings to assess with other criteria we are analyzing. I would recommend this product the difficulties I had seemed to be user driven and I will be contacting the manufacturer for assistance. We plan to continue to use."

Check it out Here: Easy Home Basal Thermometer Review

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Until Next
To Our Success!

Lydia Brown

JOB ALERT REGISTERED NURSE 26 wk to Perm Methadone Clinic Contracts (Seattle)JULY 14TH 2016

2016-07-16T17:09:00.000-04:00

Registered Nurse - 26 wk to Perm Methadone Clinic Contracts (Seattle) hide this posting

Registered Nurse (RN) Seattle, WAStaff RN Position

Job Description
I am the lead Healthcare Recruiter with Maxim Healthcare Services - West Coast territory. I am currently in search of Registered Nurses for two26 week to permanent positionswith our client, a Methadone Clinic located in downtown Seattle just South of the stadiums. The client is looking for RNs who want to come on permanently after the contract.

The registered professional nurse is responsible for dispensing methadone to patients as well assessing patients when needed. The population have mostly addiction and psychiatric issues.

Placement Specifics

Day Shift, 40 hours weekly
Variable Days, Occasional Weekend/Holiday Rotations
Potential Travel Compensation Available!
Up to $32/hr pay rate

Qualifications

Current/Pending Washington State RN Licensure
Psychiatric Experience preferred butNOTrequired
BLS Card (CPR for Healthcare Professionals. Easy to acquire!)

If you are interested in learning more about this position, please send me a copy of your resume and I will respond with further detail about the position. If you know another RN that would be a good fit for this, please let me know and I would love to pay you a $500 referral bonus. I look forward to speaking with you!

Best regards,

Riley Brindle

Recruiting Specialist Maxim Staffing Solutions
6021 244th St. SW - 4th Floor
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Office Main Line: (425) 245-9940
Desk Direct Line: (425) 122-2667
Fax: (844) 845-1112

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Credit: http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/hea/5682826470.html

Affirmations and Quotes

2012-06-06T12:23:00.002-04:00

"It's essential that we understand that taking care of the planet will be done as we take care of ourselves. You know that you can't really make much a difference in things until you change yourself." Alice Walker

"Know whence you came. If you know whence you came, there is
really no limit to where you can go." James Baldwin

"Nothing can dim the light which shines from within." Maya Angelou

"I wasn't as smart then as I am now. But who ever is?" Tina Turner

"Indeed, he who fears actually causes his own destruction. Fear
saps our energies and our ability to act in our own best interest." Carleen Brice

“How can a woman be expected to be happy with a man who insists on treating her as if she were a perfectly normal human being.”Oscar Wilde

"The truth will set you free. But first, it will piss you off." Gloria Steinem

"Seek the lofty by reading, hearing and seeing great work at some moment every day." ~
Thornton Wilder

"Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day; while failure is simply a few errors in judgment, repeated every day. It is the accumulative weight of our disciplines and our judgments that leads us to either fortune or failure." —Jim Rohn

"Self-image determines self-esteem, self-esteem determines priorities, and priorities determine success. Improve the world by doing those things that legitimately boost your self-image
and that of others." Clarence E. Hodges

"The Creator has not given you a longing to do that which you have no ability to do."
Orison Swett Marden

"Sure God created man before woman. But then you always make a rough draft before the final masterpiece." ~Author Unknown

“We can help others in the world more by making the most of yourself than in any other way.” ~
Earl Nightingale

"Out of every fruition of success, no matter what, comes forth something to make a new effort necessary." ~Howard Whitman

“I know the price of success: dedication, hard work, and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen.”Frank Lloyd Wright

“To insure good health: Eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life.” William Londen

"Whatever you do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"There are two mistakes one can make along the road to truth -- not going all the way, and not starting." - Buddha

"Be willing to be a beginner every single morning." - Meister Eckhart

"All great ideas and all great thoughts have a ridiculous beginning." - Albert Camus

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." - Lao Tzu

"Beginnings are always messy." - John Galsworthy

"When there is a start to be made, don't step over! Start where you are." - Edgar Cayce

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful” Herman Cain

THE DON'T QUIT POEM:
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all up hill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
... And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit!
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure has turned about,
When they might have won had they stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow,
You may succeed with another blow!
Often the goal is nearer than It seems to a faint and faltering one,
Often the struggler has given up
When they might have captured the victor's cup.
And they learned too late, when the night slipped down,
How close they were to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint to the clouds of doubt.
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far.
So stick to the task when you're hardest hit,
It's when things seem the worst, that you must not quit!

What are some of your favorite post? Feel free to share below.

Our Gift to you check out Promise Yourself CLICK HERE

CAP-Prescription Discount Program

2012-03-25T14:42:00.001-04:00

Medicine
Originally uploaded by KT of Lake Orion

Community Assistance Program (CAP)-Prescription Discount Program

Helping the Uninsured and the Underinsured in Your Neighborhood
About the Free CAP Drug Card

The card we distribute saves on average 15% on brand-name drugs and 55% on generics. It can be the difference between someone in need filling a prescription or doing without. These savings are based on the fact that we have over 56,000 pharmacies processing millions of prescriptions annually. The bearer of this card will always receive the lowest price available for any particular drug at the chosen pharmacy.

The CAP card can be used by:

1) Employers (any size)

2) Individuals

3) Associations (Chambers of Commerce, Alumni etc.)

4) Credit Unions, Unions

5) Non-profits

6) Charities

7) Churches

8) Doctor’s offices

9) Clinics etc”

Request cards or to download from the website CLICK HERE!

A Little Humor

Via Flickr:
(52.5 Weeks of 2010, Week #28)

Patient: It's been one month since my last visit and I still feel miserable.

Doctor: Did you follow the instructions on the medicine I gave you?

Patient: I sure did - the bottle said 'keep tightly closed.'

Check out this important information on Senior on Senior Scams!

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Where Were You September 11th, 2001?

2011-09-11T09:21:00.001-04:00

9/11 Gallery @ Newseum
Originally uploaded by Sherrinemae
The September 11th, 2001 acts of terrorism have been prevalent in the news and have brought back some painful memories. It has been difficult to look at the pictures and videos again and listen to the newscasters review the events. The past week I have been going over in my head what I was doing the day America was attacked by terrorist. I can recall every detail.

Living in Peekskill, NY about 45 minutes from New York City as I sat in my bedroom preparing for work the phone rang. This phone call and what I heard and saw next would change the way I thought about people and taught me something about myself. A girlfriend Barbara asked, “Are you watching the news, a plane crashed into the Twin Towers.” I responded, “No” and immediately turned the channel on the television. What I saw made my jaw drop. One of the Twin Towers had smoke coming out of part of the building. Out of the corner of my eye I noticed that a plane was flying closer to the buildings. I remember thinking, “my goodness what are those people on the flight going to think as they ride by the Twin Towers seeing it up close in this condition.” Then as I watched the television the plane crashed into the other tower. I could not believe it! Part of my brain was telling me this is not happening, this is no accident. It took a few minutes to tune into the news commentator’s remarks that this was an attack and that two planes had purposely flown into the Twin Towers. With eyes filling up with tears I became tense and fearful. I immediately started calling family that lived close to the city to inquire of their whereabouts. Everyone was overwhelmed with emotion but all were safe.

Eventually made it to work plagued with what was going on in New York City. Needless to say the Twin Towers was the main topic of the day and for weeks to come. One of my co-workers lost his son in the Twin Towers we found out a few days later. Then as the days went by almost everyone I encountered either lost a friend or family member in the towers or knew someone who had lost someone on 9/11.

Psychological Effect

For a long time what happened to the Twin Towers changed my thinking in a way that I was disappointed in. The next time I flew on a plane I focused on people who looked Middle Eastern. I was nervous on my flight when I saw that two men who sat a few seats in front me favored that culture in looks. I began to pray that we would be safe and I prayed to God that I would not become someone I do not respect a “prejudiced person.” It took a while to remove the fear and not judge and to recall what I had learned about the Islamic faith. I reminded my self that the religion Islam does not support such terrorist acts. I had discussions with others about how all through history men and woman have committed horrendous crimes against others in the name of religion. As painful as it is to remember 9/11 it is with respect and honor that I do not allow myself to forget those who died that day and years later as America went to war as well as the suffering of the families that have been left behind.

Where were you doing September 11th, 2001? Please share here.

Senior on Senior Scams

2011-09-09T09:51:00.003-04:00

Elderly couple
Originally uploaded by Wanderer and Wonderer
An article in AARP’s September/October magazine discussed the rise of aging scammers targeting other seniors. The article states that seniors appear to be more trusting of senior scammers who present to identify with the financial concerns of older people. Jenni Bergal author of the article stated that a popular fraud targeting senior citizens is the Ponzi schme. The Ponzi scam was named after Charles Ponzi a notorious scammer in 1920, and who could forget Bernie Madoff who in 2008 swindled millions from trusting investors.

How the Ponzi scheme works is that potential investors are guaranteed high returns on his/her funds and assured that there are no risks. The scammer then pays off investors with money received from new investors while living off the bulk of the money received. While the scammer continues to recruit new investors the well can run dry. When not enough investors come on board to keep the scammers lifestyle and provide money to give out to some investors the scammer usually disappears if not caught by the law.

Suggestions:

1) If it sounds too good to be true walk away
2) Do your research don’t let greed or false hope make the decision for you. Contact your state securities
agency for further information about any person or company that presents investment opportunities to you.
3) Take your time don’t allow yourself to be rushed. Being impulsive can cost you your life savings like it has
so many.

Not too long ago I watched a report on television about a man who scammed a few church pastors and their congregations out of thousands of dollars. No one is off limit. Our present economic climate has made many afraid of the future. This fear is resulting in poor decision-making. We must all educate ourselves when presented with information and request for our assets.

Have you or someone you know been approached with a too good to be true offer? If so please comment here and help others.

Breaking News - Earthquake!

2011-08-25T13:07:00.004-04:00

Breaking News - Earthquake!
Originally uploaded by Piedmont Fossil

August 23, 2011 5.9 Earthquake where were you? I was visiting my mom. Unfortunately my stomach was hurting all morning and I was just about to resolve the problem, "you know what I mean" when all of a sudden the house began to shake. I knew almost immediately that we were experiencing an earthquake having felt one in New York over thirty years ago. It was scary! By the time we got out of the house all of our neighbors were outside looking as perplexed as I felt.

Here are some tips on what the experts say to do when caught in an earthquake:

1) Stay away from glass and hanging objects
2) Try to get under a heavy piece of furniture
3) Shield your face and head from falling debris
4) Don't use candles use a flashlight

For more tips go to the Center for Disease Control website

Emergency preparedness is important so visit the CDC website and bring your awareness up.

Where were you and what were you doing when the earthquake hit your area on August 23rd?

Medicaid and the Elderly

2011-07-29T08:01:00.002-04:00

Elderly People sign
Originally uploaded by Nathan Hyde
I read an interesting and helpful article written by Betty Booker in BOOMER Magazine. BOOMER magazine is one of my favorite local publications. Resourceful and identifies who, what and where to go when you need help. Ms. Booker’s article did not disappoint. Having an elderly mother who is practically home bound due to severe pain this article helped me figure some things that have been bothering me regarding the best way to help my mom.
My mother talks about Medicare being an unfair system. As well as how frustrating it is to get clarity when there are changes to policy. She shares all the time that what is clear is that Medicare consistently cuts benefits. After reading this article I learned that the elderly experience similar complications with Medicaid.
What I learned from Ms. Booker’s article:
1)Medicare pays for at-home insurance for some over the age of 65 for up to 100 days post hospitalization rehabilitation and skilled nursing care
2)Medicaid pays for at-home care if the individual cannot perform two-six activities of daily living.
3)The laws and regulations for Medicaid are complex and Ms. Booker suggest that people consult with an elder law attorney and plan ahead for these types of assistance eligibility
It is a shame that our country does not take better care of our elderly. If you would like to get more information on this topic, you can contact Ms. Booker at Betty@theboomermagazine.com

Do have an elderly person in your life that is struggling with medical assistance? If so, please share

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Thirty-One Days of Power

2011-05-13T13:52:00.001-04:00

I do not believe in coincidences. This book came to me during a time in my life that I was having a difficult time Letting Go Let God. On a daily basis each day the message was appropriate, fitting, right on time and powerful. Making a commitment to discipline myself to read the messaged daily was at first hard but with each message I realized that each morning my first step of the day needed to be turning the pages of this book. A must have, "Thirty-One Days" of Amazing Grace!

~I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Book Review: Life In Spite of Me

2011-02-21T21:48:00.003-05:00

Overview: Kristen at a young age experienced tragic events that caused her to become depressed and emotionally unstable. Not knowing how to process her grief Kristen chose a path that was extreme and for many would have been fatal. Kristen attempted to kill herself by lying on the train tracks near her home. Losing both her legs might have pushed Kristen further into depression; however, on her journey to healing Kristen began to realize that her life has purpose with God’s Grace. Painful as the journey was Kristen began to pray to God for guidance on how she could use her experience to help others.

My Thoughts: When I read the jacket of the book tears came to my eyes. I immediately felt compassion for what Kristen must have gone through. I had no idea that what was about to be revealed to me was faith on a level that most may not understand unless he/she has experienced a tragedy. Kristen’s story was a constant reminder to me to be grateful and that when faced with adversity God is with me. This amazing and inspiring book takes you through the Kristen’s process to get to the other side of her sorrow and obtain the strength to share with others without shame. Kristen’s special messages throughout the book encourage and empower people of all ages.

Book provided free for review by the Waterbrookmultnomah

Soldiers Don't Cry

2011-02-15T22:12:00.001-05:00

Female flag officers honor first woman four-star
Originally uploaded by The U.S. Army

I was watching the news last night and was so stunned to hear that in the year 2009 more than 3,000 women in the military had been sexually assaulted. It was disheartening to hear the women discuss how those who do report these incidents usually go without any justice taking place.

Most women it is suspected do not report sexual assault fearing reprisal from their male peers. We must as USA citizen care about the safety of all of our members of the military.

What do you think would be the best way to support the women in our military service?

Can A Peach be a Blessing?

2011-02-09T19:16:00.003-05:00

Peach
Originally uploaded by Quem é o Pêra?
"Life is better than death, I believe, if only that it is less boring, and because it has fresh peaches in it." ~Alice Walker

I woke up this morning feeling real funky. Made a mistake the night before. I went to sleep without praying and reading my motivational book. A big set up I admit that. The devil fed on my worries all through the night. Without my foundation I worried in my sleep about things that I know full well are out of my hands.

Tired and moving slow I went about the next day for about four hours when I remembered a support group message I received years ago, "I can start my day all over again at any time." So first I prayed and then I went through one of my favorite empowerment books, "Ebony Power Thoughts" and found the above quote by Alice Walker. The question that followed the quote was: What are some of the greatest gifts in my life right now?

I then thought peaches must be real special to Alice Walker for her to include them in her message about life and death. So I thought, "I love peaches so let me start there." See sometimes you have to let someone feed you some information when you are down and need a jump start. There are times when you have to keep it real simple to get back on track. You know one step at a time or one minute at a time. I would never have thought about the simple joy I get out of eating a juicy peach lifting my spirits. Or how the smile I get on my face when I try to keep the tasty juice from spilling on my clothes. To tell you the truth I am not a neat freak I just want to savor every morsel for my tongue where taste buds are having a field day.

By the time I finished thinking about how simple an act of eating a peach could provide such pleasure by God's grace to someone who may not have anything else to hold onto on a low spirited day; I knew I needed to make my gratitude list. Grateful for the peaches in my life that God has blessed me with.

So I ask you this:

1) When the going gets tough what gets you going?
2) Whats on your gratitude list? Have you included the small joys of life?

While you are thinking about it I invite you to subscribe to my newsletter to the right of this page.

#1 Killer of American Women

2011-02-01T16:59:00.007-05:00

Heart Disease is the #1 Killer of American Women!

February 1st - February 7th is Womens Heart Week. February 4th is the official "Wear Red Day." Show your support by wearing something red that day.

You can help fight heart disease in women by motivating others and yourself to take the right steps to live a healthier life by educating yourself about this disease.

If you want to know more about this disease go to this site sponsored by the American Heart Disease Association

Norine's Valentine Day Story

2009-02-24T00:27:00.005-05:00

Norine, a dear friend gave me permission to post her story about Valentine's Day. I love her honest sharing about how happy she was for a neighbor who was experiencing the joy of sharing Valentine's Day with a loved one and her hopes for herself in the future. I love when as women we can be happy for each other as we find joy with a mate. Those who sit in envy and do not share joys of others are missing out.

Norine's Story

My emotions have evolved during Valentine's Day in these last sevens years. Being single for about that long, those years were saturated with mixed emotions evolving from frustration, sadness and/or depression to indifference and disregard, to simply a day to enjoy with family and friends... and sometimes it was simply just another day for me.

This time, I saw Valentine's Day as just another day and only felt an inkling of sadness... And as the day wore on, I was busy with things to do and places to go, and then suddenly without realizing it, I had completely forgotten it was Valentine's day... until I received a surprise knock at my door.

My neighbor, Janaia, delightfully surprised me with the biggest and prettiest heart shaped and flower shaped balloons... To hear a knock at my door (I rarely ever have guests) and to be presented with a set of large pretty, red balloons definitely widened my smile and accented my day!

After saying one thousand and seven thank you's I asked my neighbor who else did she think of on this Valentine's Day. I knew her hubby and she would do something special. But, I was sure she thought of other people besides me, as well. To my surprise, she said she just thought of me on this day and commenced to wishing me a Happy Valentine's Day. I really felt special! She gave me a quick hug and hurried away to get ready for her date with her hubby. She is no longer my neighbor. I now consider her a dear friend.

Though there's no love of my life or males vying for my attention, it's nice to know that I was on someone's mind and a kind thought was expressed.

As she hurried away, I wished her a wonderful evening with her anticipated 'special' date and whispered to myself that maybe it will be me one day going on a date with my own hubby. But, while I'm waiting, I'll share some love and some of my time with others. Because it's not about me. It's about love.

Happy Valentine's Day!
Though I don't know you, I love you...

Promise Yourself

2009-01-24T01:31:00.002-05:00

I have had this for a long time and every time I read it I feel empowered. It has also been a great topic in group sessions I have facilitated with adolescent, adult male and females. I hope you enjoy it.

Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing can

disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity

to every person you meet.

to make all your friends feel that

there is something in them.

to look at the sunny side of everything

and to make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work

only for the best and expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about

the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past

and press on to the greater

achievements of the future.

to wear a cheerful countenance at all times

and give every living creature you meet a smile.

to give so much time to the improvement of yourself

that you have no time to critizie others.

to be too lare for worry, too noble for anger,

too strong for fear, and too happy

to permit the presence of trouble.

Author Unknown

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Loving Yourself

2009-01-16T21:56:00.008-05:00

CARESS: Keys to nurturing Yourself

COMPASSION: Having compassion is a healing method that is a link to the place where you hurt

ACCEPTANCE: Is aligned with compassion. When you respond to yourself with compassion, you are accepting your imperfections. No matter what be there for yourself, don't beat yourself up.

RESPECT: Is the way you treat yourself and are treated by other people determined by your perceived value of yourself. When you feel worthy of respect you get it.

ENCOURAGEMENT: Helps you set goals, values, and beliefs that you can attain. Affirmations are a great way to validate yourself and your efforts, and your self worth.

SUPPORT: You cannot rely on others to give you support. When there is no one else there you must know that when things get bad you are at the root of the love and support you need.

STROKING: Allow yourself to be receptive to all the wonderful things available to you and relish the moment.

Your objective is to produce personal and professional growth. Negative self talk diminishes your self esteem and results in feelings of failure.

Source: Carolynn Hillmann

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Dominique's Story

2009-01-14T19:03:00.018-05:00

I learned a long time ago that self disclosure can be powerful. To me it is like putting your soul through a filter and leaving behind all of the toxic waste while gaining the ability to walk away with the lessons that were meant to be learned feeling empowered. I would like to introduce you to Dominique Howard a creative,strong, and empowering woman who has given me permission to share her experience, strength and hope with others. When I read Dominque's story I got goose bumps and my eyes teared up. First from feeling her pain and then from identifying with her joy. I asked Dominque a few questions about her thoughts on female relationships. Her response is just as honest as her story.

Dominique Howard
I was a woman with a pretty face and no self-respect. Broken and wounded was I. Men were drawn to me because of my reputation of being loose and easy. I allowed several men to belittle me, use me and even hit me because I had no love for myself. I remember one man pushed my head into the ground and threw water in my face as if I was nothing and he told me that the women that are loved are the ones who get hit. Another man kicked in my door and punched me in my face and he told me that he loved me.
And one day I woke up and I began to have a relationship with a lover named Jesus and he helped me fall in love with myself and I realized that I was worth much more than this. And from that day forward I was no longer an abused woman.

I had an issue with promiscuity. I enjoyed being promiscuous and I did not discriminate. If I had a taste for a particular flavor, I had a menu of numbers that I could call to have it delivered to my door like pizza. I had no values, no respect for myself or my victims. When I tried to do right and avoid mankind because of my weak flesh, I would always give in to my temptation. I remember praying to God asking him to help me with this addiction that was bound to drive me straight to the fire. With constant praying and fasting the desire started to subside. I desired that promiscuous habit less and less and one day my mind changed and I was no longer a whoremonger.

I was blessed with a wonderful husband in May of 2001 and in June 2001 I wanted to get an annulment from this wonderful man that I was blessed with because I found out that he had some fleshly issues with a woman that was not me. I was hurt, devastated, and just downright torn to pieces. Did he not know my struggles? ! that I prayed and fasted to overcome so that I would be that wife that he deserved? ! I was shattered on the inside, but I chose to stay with my husband and work through this difficult time.

I quietly hated him, I quietly rejoiced in his torment at work. I did not want to be intimate with him because I did not know if he saw me or her. I prayed for restoration and healing and as time passed I no longer cried when I had to encourage another broken young woman that her marriage would survive their issues, by telling my story and the pain that I had endured and made it through. I was stronger and able to laugh about my past pains because I loved my husband and I forgave him. So I thought!
But then one day this brother approached me at the right place and the right time and before I could flee from this temptation I thought about my husband. I thought wow, when my husband was enjoying woman kind (that was not myself) he did not consider me! So why should I consider him?! It was my turn! I wanted him to know the pain that I felt! Wow as it turns out I didn’t forgive my husband at all.
So I made the choice to creep, slip, and side dip and now I am an adulterer. I went back to the same vomit that I threw up some years ago. (Was it worth it?) No (Was I justified in my actions?) No I knew God was not pleased with what I had done. Had I just prayed and let the Lord work on me, and just let God be God I would not have been in this mess!

I had fought so hard to be rid of those demons and now, I had to fight that much harder to get back on track. And people, I asked for forgiveness and I prayed and I fought to take back what was rightfully mine! And with much prayer and fasting I was no longer an adulterer!

And I stand before you today happily married to the same wonderful husband I married in 2001. And the Lord birthed a music ministry in me so that I could tell my story to be a blessing to those who are going through what I went through or similar.

My message is:
If he cleaned me up and brought me out of my darkness, he is a faithful and just God, to do the same for those who seek his face.

Interview

Lydia: What has been your experience regarding having relationships with women?

Dominique: Most of the women that I have formed relationships with have had the same life experiences as I have. So my relationship experience with these women has been successful because we connect spiritually and we understand eachother.We have traveled down the same paths in life and we are on the same road as far as our future in Christ. My experience with women who have not experienced what I have experienced has also been successful because I communicate with everyone, and I am straight forward. I come to the table with what I have and they bring what they have and either we form a bond or we don't.

Lydia: Do you think female friendships have value?

Dominique: Yes I feel that female friendships have value because women can vibe off of eachother. Women are emotional beings and we have different desires and needs that other women can relate to, so naturally the friendship has a value because we are different but like minded in many ways. My friendship with ladies that I actually talk to are valuable to me because they know me and they understand me and vice versa. We understand eachother and we share the same goals and desires in life.

Lydia: Did you always feel this way?

Dominique:No I didn't. When I was younger I went through a phase in my life when I did not want to socialize with females period. As I grew older I felt like I would benefit from a female relationship and they could benefit from me. I felt like we could be helpers one to another.

Dominique is a talented artist to hear her perform click the link. Your are in for a treat.

Dominique’s Site!

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2009-01-09T00:10:00.000-05:00

Beauty: The Benefits of Taking a Trip to the Spa

Have you thought about getting away for a week or two but the state of the economy has affected your ability to travel. Perhaps parenting or work related issues prevent you from going away for an extended period of time. An alternative is a day trip to your local Spa. This could be a good time to work on stress reduction.

Perhaps you are overwhelmed and do not realize it. Taking care of others has been such a priority in your life that proper eating, exercising, or leisure time has escaped your schedule. If you have been struggling with how to free your mind of stress a trip to the spa may be just what you need.

Depending on your budget determine the type of service you would like. There are spas that offer hair care, pedicures, as well as massages. Search your local directory you might find a spa that offers acupuncture and tanning services. If your budget allows and it has been a while since you have been away try to book an appointment for full service treatment.

Don’t be disappointed if you call a spa and they are booked up. This could be a sign of an establishment that has a great reputation in your community. You can also check with the local Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau to put your mind at rest that you have chosen a safe place for your spa visit.

On of the best spa days I had was with a group of friends. It was an inspiring journey that we took together that we talked about for days. Everyone’s needs are different and it is just as beneficial if you desire to take advantage of a spa day by yourself.

You determine if you need a girl’s day out or some “me” time.

I must admit while I am only seeking to be relaxed and stressed free a day at the spa makes me feel and look younger. No kidding I like the way I look but the truth is all that rejuvenation has an impact on me physically and spiritually. You can compare a spa trip to having a makeover.

Google search online for spas in your area. Pay attention to pictures so you can try to find the environment you envision that will bring you peace of mind. When you find one you can ask if they give day passes, or if you can take a tour before you make your final decision.

Bottom line a spa visit will not remove your problems. However, while you wait for all the seeds you have planted in life to harvest this is an option that can help you along the way. Go ahead show yourself some love.

Click Here for anti aging, skincare and facial rejuvenation information.

To our Success!

Lydia Brown

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