Nadia...Experience.Enjoy.Evolve

WedTin Bridal Emergency Kit Featured on Pinch of Charm Wedding blog

2014-12-19T19:15:00.000-05:00

Charming Life for Team WedTin!

WedTin was featured last week on Pinch of Charm Wedding site and blog. This site feature awesome and valuable information for wedding planners. to all my wedding and event planners, please go checkout Pinch of Charm Wedding.

Etsy Friday- WedTin Bridal Emergency Our Featured Post :)

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Experience: The Art of Balance

2014-02-03T13:16:00.001-05:00

The Art of Balance
by: Nadia Sweeting

While at work, I came across this enlightening article on TinyBuddha, based on 4 questions one must ask themselves when you're unhappy with your work.

As I read the article, I started to evaluate my situation. Noticed I did not use the word "re-evaluate" -- that would imply that I've tried a method and need to take a different course of action or a new approach. I started to evaluate my situation based on the fact that I must learn how to balance Work-Life balance. This is very difficult for me. I must admit that I struggle with giving 100% at work and at home -- all while feeling that both situations take advantage of my effort level of 100%.

Take a read...

4 Questions to Ask Yourself When You’re Unhappy with Your Work

By Rachel Trotta

“What you do today is important, because you are exchanging a day of your life for it.” ~Unknown

In my working lifetime, I have been the poster child for seeking work-life balance. I have spent hundreds of hours curled into complex yoga asanas, breathing into the resistance and unexpected openness.

I have meditated sincerely, flowering into a quieter mind. Add to that a happy, growing relationship, stable social connections, and purposefully cultivated hobbies, and you would think that I go humming and beaming to work each morning.

The startling truth is that for every minute that I have spent meditating in my entire life, I have cried in my car coming to or from my job.

When I first started working, it seemed normal—if you have a bad day, I reasoned, you let off a little emotional steam in the car on the way home.

As a teacher, I often experience my most tumultuous classroom situations during the last part of the day, and the result is that as a new teacher, I often climbed into my car shell-shocked and fragile, barraged by a hailstorm of chaotic situations.

My first year, the answer was mindfulness, and therefore I pursued yoga and meditation with the doggedness of a shipwrecked sailor swimming for shore. My mental image of stress reduction was that mindfulness techniques were a counterweight for stressful situations.

In the process, I took responsibility for my tranquility, but not for the situations that were causing me so much angst.

My second year, I switched jobs and kept doing yoga avidly, but I also gravitated towards the philosophy of “no”—that if I could protect my boundaries more skillfully, that I could weaken the thick net of sadness that I tangibly felt tightly wrapped around my job and schedule.

Again, this was a wonderful, positive technique; by reducing my activities, I narrowed and strengthened my channel of energy. However, I continued to perform that defeating ritual of the occasional “afternoon cry,” and was adding morning weep sessions to my repertoire.

No simple solutions, regardless of their wisdom or usefulness, warded off the constant worrying about work situations, and by the end of that year, I was understandably burned out and confused.

Branching out into more hobbies, my final attempt to achieve that elusive “work-life balance,” had only succeeded in diluting my passion instead of re-awakening it, and I came to a skidding stop in the educational field. I quit my job.

Now, I am thankful for this burnout—running out of quick answers and clever solutions dropped me onto the bedrock of humility with a resounding thud.

I finally realized that work-life balance is elusive because it is always a shining horizon—if I see my work as something to “balance,” I run in the opposite direction as soon as I clock out for the day, and my energies are pulled in different directions.

In the end, my many attempts to achieve that golden standard of “balance” resulted in a hollowness—an inability to “go deep” in any direction. As long as I made these techniques the locus of my attention, I was distracted from the core issues that resulted in my desperate frustration.

Although at the time I thought that another career—any other career—was the answer, I didn’t realize that I wasn’t even asking the right questions. I am thankful now that I was serendipitously brought back into alignment with teaching, and that I have had an opportunity to heal my wounds as an educator in a beautiful way.

In the process, these are the four questions that I have developed for use in times of career unhappiness, which provoke honest self-evaluation and authentic action. These questions open the heart of the matter.

**1. What are the separate issues?**

When I hit my bottom in my vocation of teaching, I forced myself, in an unlooked-for burst of clarity, to create a chart that outlined my distinct issues with my job.

In my current position at the time, the problems ranged widely from my personal safety all the way to poor administration. I could do nothing about many of the issues, I realized, but one of my unmet needs, getting a masters degree, was entirely within my realm of control.

By separating the issues, I was able to define the “deal-breakers” and bring distinctness to what was before an overwhelming amalgam of bad feelings.

**2. What can I do differently right now?**

Once you have separated the issues, you can then decide which of the problems within your control you can transform immediately.

Some changes must wait—they are within your power, but they are necessarily time-bound. However, there are other issues that can be addressed right away, and change can bring immediate relief even if you plan on eventually leaving your job.

Positive strategies such as asking for help and reaching out for healthy social connections at work can help make you happier right now, regardless of your ultimate employment decision. Sometimes you just need to clear the spiritual fog by mitigating acute stress before you can move in any direction.

**3. How can I disconnect my effort from my expectations?**

Possibly the most powerful agent of burnout in any profession is the lack of tangible results. For me, my heart was broken every time I couldn’t see a project through to completion, and once I broke that arrow that connected effort to results, my expectations were far more realistic.

I am now able to plunge in—and back out—of projects with more abandon, understanding that sometimestrying is the same as doing. When you truly feel connected to the purpose of your work, the endeavor or effort is an end unto itself, and the results are secondary.

This question makes the important assumption that you strongly believe in what you are doing, even if the outcomes are sometimes disappointing. However, if even the process is draining, you may not be living in alignment with your mission.

**4. What is my mission?**

Recognizing and celebrating your unique voice, which will never be spoken by any other human being, is an important part of the journey to peace with your work.

Your mission is not intertwined with your job—your mission is completely internal. You are the archetypal hero, accomplishing your life’s work, and the job or the career is simply an outer manifestation of the spiritual odyssey.

Your inner mission may be in alignment with your job, or your career may at least have the potential to exist in service of your calling.

But because your mission is not something that you have to generate, it creates unrest when you ignore it. If you’re feeling stifled and limited by your current job, you need to do the gentle but courageous work of discerning your deepest purpose, and take the necessary actions to follow that expansion.

–

I still do yoga daily. Setting appropriate boundaries and saying “no” to people is truly a part of my spiritual practice.

The hobbies that I have developed over the years are still integral to my routines and add color and joy to my life. However, until I could ask myself those four questions, I was only re-dressing the surface issues and leaving the core dilemmas unresolved—and I kept crying in the car.

But ultimately, I found myself irresistibly pulled through my discontent to a deeper connection with mygreat work.

There are no quick fixes. Work-life balance, if it is even possible, is certainly not achievable if you are turning a deaf ear to the call of your most urgent and aligned life’s work.

Clarify those longings and answer them, and then make all the changes that you need to make, no matter how large or small. Go deep in that direction.

When you are firmly grounded in the passion of creatively discovering your vocation one day at a time, you will absorb that energy. Then, instead of creating the storms in your life, you will have the deep, healthy roots to weather the challenges that will inevitably arrive when you are fully engaged with lif

Enjoy, Experience & Evolve: Happy by Pharrell Williams

2013-12-31T12:46:00.001-05:00

Happy
By #Pharrell Williams
#24hourmusicvideo

Many Thanks to #SimonTBailey for turning me on to this song. This is an awesome song to add to your everyday #playlist -- listen while you're on your way home, church, work or #exercising. #HappyNewYear #2014

and in the words of Pharrell...

Clap along if you feel like a room with no roof

Clap along if you know what #happiness is for you

Clap along if you feel like that's what you want to do

Clap along if you feel like happiness is the #TRUTH

I don't bop, I do the Happy #Dance!

Just a little New Year humor to round out your day!

#NadashiMarketing & #WedTin

#DoingBigThings in #2014

Explore: Beyonce Visual Album - Mine ft. Drake

2013-12-23T16:44:00.001-05:00

My Listening Pleasure - Beyonce Album
By: Nadia Sweeting

As I listen to my freshly purchased #Beyonce #album from #Starbucks (my early Christmas gift) this song stood out to me. Although I love each song on the album, I've replaced this song at least 50 times. The beginning of the song gives an insight into Beyonce - the mommy, wife and artist. So many women can relate -
I do.

My vote for #Song of the #Year! #Mine

This song has some of the best lyrics I've heard in a long time as it relates to describing your feelings for that significant person in your life. This is something that I would have or may have jotted down in my journal. This song depicts how you can give life to your inner most vulnerable thought about your mate and how you view that person in your life. I enjoy listening to a song that requires you to feel the words in order to receive the message

"Stop making a big deal out of the little things 'cause I have big deals and I got little things..I got everything I'm asking for but YOU!...Stop making a big deal out of the little things ' let's get carried away- come right now you know where I stay...I just want to say you're mine, you're mine...F**K what you heard you're mine, you're mine! All I'm really asking for is You" - Beyonce

Drake's rap is on point ...very insightful and true about how most men feel about their girl. I really like Drake's rap style opposed to other rappers (I won't mention any names). He's not afraid to be vulnerable and expressive. You feel his pain and his passion for his craft. His experiences allows one to explore his

"I miss feeling on you, I miss everything that's real about you and that's everything about you that's just how I feel about you. I been about you and I'm still about you...All them fives need to listen when the ten is talking Cuz they don't wanna see you happier than them...your ex is not a running back but that n***a came running back, and you tell me that you're done with that and I believe its true as long as you know who you belong to." I feel that Beyonce the album is awesome and the visual aspect makes it stand out even more. I feel that she took a risk from a marketing standpoint. In order to reinvent yourself and remain on top of your craft, one must take a calculated risk and throe caution to the wind and leap. #Beyonce leaped to another stratosphere!

Evolve: A Single Mother's Bond

2013-08-19T16:14:00.001-04:00

A Single Mother's Bond
By: Nadia Sweeting

Today, I want to show much love to all the single mother,s and fathers for the most part,who somehow lost their way in life. I can honestly admit that I'm lost most often than others, but I can admit that I am aware of it. I came across this video clip -Life lesson for single mothers - I often feel guilty for not being able to do more for my daughter. Nights of heartaches and disappointments are regular, but like so many other single parents, we must continue on the fight and make it happen.

A Single Mom's Lightbulb Moment - Oprah's Lifeclass - Oprah Winfrey

One day, while watching a few videos on Oprah's Life class YouTube channel, I came across this video clip - "A Single Mom's Light bulb Moment. This video stood out to me because I recognized this woman Erica Ship...Ms.Ship is ME! I put others before me all the while neglect needs and wants. I've lived in the shadows of others - never wanting to make a fuss and when the time came for others to help me- they abandoned me or simply marked the "Do Not Apply" box.

Financially, I will admit that I struggle- with being able to provide with little assistance. I struggle with insuring both myself and my child. It hurts my heart to hear my daughter tell me "mommy, it will be ok." Suze Orman stated that "it doesn't matter that daddy left us, but that mommy has what it takes to make it happen." I completely understand and feel her pain. Currently, I reside with my parents and it pains me to raise my child while living in my parents house- unable to afford an apartment. As Suze Orman said, in order to help my daughter, I will put on the "Financial Oxygen Mask" first, then my daughter.

I am blessed...no complaints

Today is the first day of school for most kids across the United States and I can honestly say this single mother is extremely proud of her child. My daughter entered the 8th grade with full determination that she will do better than last year - Honor Student! I've instilled in my daughter that hard work pays off. My daughter understands how hard I work in order for her to have. My daughter's obligations are to excel in school and be cordial and respectful to others I manage to run two businesses, Nadashi Marketing and WedTin, with my sister. My daughter see my effort and determination to make things happen.

By no means do I want my daughter to feel the financial struggles. Single parents, we are the strongest people walking your respective cities and countries. I respect all single parents near and far. We hold a special bond with each other -- joined by love and strength.

I know I am just rambling -- these are things on my heart!

I am blessed...no complaints

Enjoy: Nadashi Marketing Launches WedTin®, Wedding Day Emergency Kit for Brides, Bridal Parties, and Event Planners

2013-08-13T17:17:00.001-04:00

Nadashi Marketing Launches WedTin®, Wedding Day Emergency Kit for Brides, Bridal Parties and Event Planners.

By: Nadia Sweeting

Nadashi Marketing launches product, WedTin®; a bridal-themed emergency kit. WedTin®
is a tin filled with convenient and common beauty, fashion, hygiene, and household solutions to solve common wedding day preparation blunders. WedTin®
includes over 30 items such items as hair ties, deodorant to stain remover and hand sanitizer.

Nadashi Marketing, a marketing consultancy firm, created WedTin® as a necessity for bridal parties, brides, event planners and wedding coordinators to handle mishaps and often overlooked critical items. Additionally, for inclusion in restrooms at the wedding venue.

WedTin's Official Press Release

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Also, vote for WedTin in Intuit's Small Business Big Game!

'Tins Up!!!!!

Evolve: My Authentic Self, My Thoughts

2013-08-13T14:43:00.000-04:00

Too Much On My Mind
By: Nadia Sweeting

Today Lord, has been a rough one. I am trying to see the forest for the trees. I am wanting for more. More of what I ask, I am unsure. I want to be more and give more, but I feel as if I am more and given more. God you are my mind-regulator.

Lord, I know this battle is yours and not mine. I am in need of prayer and guidance. I shed a tear only for my own misunderstandings. I shed not a tear because I am sad. I wish that I was dreaming so that I can wake up from the nonsense and everything will be beautiful. Lord, be with me today- remove me from the unnecessary and intent.

Lately, I've been extremely emotional and I know this is all your doing Lord. I know that you are testing me. Testing my faith and will. As I eye my eyes, all I can see is weary and no end. I want to experience my life. For majority of my life, I've experienced other people's lives. I'm always the person looked upon to make everything ok --right--in its place -- correct. I don't seek the approval of others and I know that you Lord are the only "Approver", but I can't help but to think whether anyone stop to think about me. I am a giver, but givers need assistance too.

I am not perfect nor do I strive to be. I wear what and how I feel on my sleeve. God, I need you! I need you right now -- right now! As I sit here with tears in my eyes while at work, I need you to speak to my heart. I feel as if I move a mile a minute all while going nowhere. Spinning in a circle with no direction. God, I need things to move in my life -- MOVE ME!

I've listened to Jill Scott's "When I Wake Up" so many times today. I feel every word in this song. God, I pray that I am dreaming and when I wake up all things will be beautiful!

God, please hear me ...I want to prosper and live MY life. I pray that my business is successful. I pray that my daughter do not encounter the unnecessary garbage that I've endured in this lifetime. I pray for my very own place to live and to call my own. My very own! Those are very powerful words one can say out of his or her mouth. I pray that you keep me sane and refreshed. I often find myself exhausted and weary from everyday. God grant me the ability to smell the flowers and feel the wind; touch the grass and see the world.

Experience: Why Do I Choose to Work Harder When I Should Be Working Smarter?

2013-05-29T09:30:00.000-04:00

Why Do I Choose to Work Harder When I Should Be Working Smarter?
by: Nadia Sweeting

As I sit at my desk at a very successful Fortune 500 company, I can't help but think to myself "Is this my calling?" Am I passionate about what I do? The work is easy, but is it the people that make it stressful? Currently, I am a Digital Marketing Project Manager and in order to do this job effectively one must be pretty organized and detailed-oriented.

For me, project management should come natural to me. I tend to make sure all is in its right place and that all of the T's are crossed and I's dotted. I can't help but to think -- how long can I keep this façade up?
I am known as the "Fix-It Girl" - I get things done and done right! According to my standards and beliefs. For me, doing it right is common sense but to others, it's a way to create work and unnecessary rework. By no means am I perfect - I make mistakes- own, accept and correct them!

Is it that I no longer want to be perfect?

Enjoying life is perfection!

Today, I was in constant prayer asking God for clarity and guidance. I feel that this particular time in my life is confusing and enlightening at the same time. I know that I must release the self-created restraints and blockage that I've drummed up for myself, but am I allowed to not be perfect. The universe and my heart says YES!

I will continue to work on not trying so hard to be perfect and to work smarter not harder. I work so hard that I my head has been underground that life is just passing me by and I want to come up for air. I want to live out my dreams with no restrictions.

Enjoy: This Lesson on Retirement

2013-05-27T20:00:00.000-04:00

We all must retire from our professions like Anthony "Spice" Adams

After 10 years in the NFL, Anthony "Spice" Adams hung up the cleats and 100-yard office space and chose a more conventional way to let say... comical send off!

This will definitely put a smile on your face. If you're wondering -- How will I handle retirement? or What will I do next after retirement? Take heed from "Spice" Adams!

Check out Anthony "Spice" Adams Retires in STYLE

Experience: My Prayer: Higher Than This.

2013-05-27T12:40:00.001-04:00

God, My Father!

You said to come to you , seek Your Word. Today, my prayer is HELP!

God, as I sit here today at work, I can't help but to think that about my life and the mental ground that I stand. I've been existing - not present in the world. I've been going through the motions not experiencing life and all that it has to offer. I feel as if life is

I feel as if I could do more and be more for my daughter, but God I feel my energy depleting. Am I fighting happiness? Am I fighting the progress? Am I fighting faith? Am I fighting You, Lord? What I know is that I am tired of fighting whatever is blocking me from my blessings. I sit here at work and can't help but think that I am here for a purpose and it's higher than any spreadsheets and creative deadlines.

God, please HELP!

Hear.Every.Lone.Pray!

Why do I feel confused. I was always told that when you're confused, God is working! I feel torn - my dream to be an entrepreneur (or Mom-Preneur) lives inside of me, but I'm torn. I know I must step up and leap forward knowing that faith will thrust me forward and onward. I think about my now 13 year old daughter who solely depends on me. Am I being selfish by jumping? My decision affects her as well.

“Don’t let your happiness depend on something you may lose.” ~C.S. Lewis

I want to live and not exist. And for majority of my life, I've existed. I have yet to participate in life. I am very much aware that I've given more of myself to others than myself. I am more than aware that I can no longer make myself available and expend so much energy on others. I work so hard and give 150% while at work and at home. I feel that there's more for me and that I must continue on a path higher than this.

While at my desk, Father you orchestrated the song, Stand, to play and It was confirmed to me that you know my heart's desires and it's your will that shall be done to move me.

What do you say when you're all alone? STAND
What do you give when you've given your all? STAND
How do you handle the guilt of you past- how do you deal with the shame. How do you smile when your smile has been broken with pain? STAND

Listen, You just STAND and watch the Lord see you through. God has a purpose; God has a plan!

Father, the last few days have been very trying for me, but I have to believe that you got my back--my front--my sides -- my life! I will continue to praise You in all of your glory.

In Jesus name,

Amen!

Evolve: Writing is music for your soul

2013-04-11T17:16:00.000-04:00

Hola Chicas and Chicos~

I came across this article while on Tiny Buddha and it resonated with me personally. I love to write in my journal. Writing allows me to express myself without any consequences.I carry a journal with me at all times - you never know when the urge to strike to jot down a new feeling, happy time, depressed feelings or simple prayers. I find myself communicating with God about my most inner thoughts. Sometimes, I feel as if I can leap a mountain with my words.Writing allows me to translate my thoughts into softly spoken desires seeking a place to harvest and grow.

4 Ways to Use Journaling to Calm Your Inner Critic

By Hannah Braime

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” ~Eleanor Roosevelt

It’s a voice we’re all familiar with, and one that we all find challenging. Yes, the inner critic is the part of our internal dialogue that can make or break our day.

At its best, our inner critic helps us live in a way that’s true to our values, questioning decisions that we might regret later and keeping us on the straight and narrow. At it’s worst, however, an inner critic rampage can bring down our mood, self-esteem, and sense of self-worth.

Much of my own self-work has focused on my internal dialogue. My inner critic can be mean. She has completely different standards for me than for anyone else, and she knows exactly what to say to make my self-confidence crumble.

One aspect of my life my inner critic has been most vocal about is my work. After graduating, I started out as a freelancer, and then recently transitioned into running my own business.

My critic dealt with these transitions by telling me I was getting too big for my boots to think I could make a living working for myself, trying to convince me other people wouldn’t take me seriously, and criticizing everything from my earnings to the fact that I didn’t have a “real” job.

At a time when I was pushing myself outside my comfort zone, this was a painful experience that provoked all kinds of self-doubt and anxiety (plus many sleepless nights).

Calming my inner critic is a work in progress, but there is one tool that I have found invaluable for entering into a more productive dialogue with it: Journaling.

The inner critic only has power when we give it that power. Journaling has helped me learn how to not only keep the inner critic at bay in the short-term, but also to develop a more healthy and balanced relationship with this, and other parts of my internal dialogue, over the long-term.

Here are four suggestions for how you can use journaling to calm your inner critic:

1. Cheerleading

Cheerleading is a simple journaling practice that takes a negative self-belief and turns it into an accepting and self-compassionate statement.

Here’s an example:

Negative statement: I hate my stomach. I hate the way it bulges when I sit down, and the way it hangs over my favorite jeans.

Cheerleading statement: I accept my stomach, and accept that it looks the way it looks right now. Any desire to change it comes from wanting the best for my health, not from a sense of not being good enough.

I accept my stomach, and know that it is just a part of me; I am not defined as a person by how it looks.

This exercise might feel unnatural at first. It’s easy to get caught up in the inner critic’s beliefs. Cheerleading not only provides us with an alternative perspective, but also helps us strengthen a more self-accepting voice. The more you practice it, the more natural this turnaround becomes and, consequently, the less powerful the critic’s statements become.

2. Dialogue

Our inner critics are capable of dishing out some seriously harsh criticism, but they’re there for a reason. Although it might not be immediately obvious, all of our internal voices are working in their own way to protect us—even the inner critic. When we are shamed and judged for things by other people, over time we internalize their beliefs and start shaming and judging ourselves.

The inner critic works in this way to curb our behavior, and prevent other people from shaming and judging us in the future. Because it’s really trying to protect us, the more we try to ignore and repress our inner critic, the louder it becomes. One way we can calm this voice is to talk to it, and write out the conversation.

When doing this, I find it helpful to bring forward a nurturing internal voice (also called the “adult” part or your “true self”) to act as a mediator.

Start by asking your inner critic to tell you more about a particular statement it made recently, or with a more general dialogue about your feelings. The aim of this is to start a constructive conversation that helps you understand and even empathize with my inner critic’s motivations.

When I realized that my inner critic was trying to protect me from the criticism of specific childhood figures—people I’m not around anymore—it was a lot easier to understand, accept, and reassure the critic. Consequently, the critic’s words became less powerful.

Like cheerleading, this exercise might feel unnatural at first (after all, talking to “the voices in our head” carries a degree of cultural stigma). Keep persevering, and you’ll soon be able to hold a constructive and calmer dialogue with your critic.

3. Retrospect

“Retrospecting” involves reading back over past journaling notes and looking at patterns, language, themes, and underlying beliefs. This activity is best done weeks or months after writing an entry so enough time has passed that you can read with a more objective eye. Consider the following questions:

Does your inner critic sound like anyone you know?

This could be a parent, other relative, a mentor, or anyone who played a significant role in your life as a child.

Does it have any recurring complaints?

Perhaps your inner critic focuses on specific characteristics or attributes, such as your appearance, your work ethic, or your interactions with others. When we identify these patterns, we can look at where they might have come from. My inner critic’s recurring complaints involve my appearance and the idea that I’m “anti-social”—both of which I was criticized for while growing up.

Is there any kind of truth in the critic’s complaints?

We’ve already talked about how the critic is out to protect us, and although it might not communicate with us in manner that’s easy to hear, sometimes it has a point. It can be tempting to dismiss our inner critic’s criticisms as meaningless, but they can be a useful indicator of when we might be behaving out of line with our values.

What do you think your critic is trying to protect you from?

There is a method behind the madness, so take a step back and try to empathize with your inner critic’s motivations, as I described in tip two.

4. Strengthen your other internal voices

Our inner critics are here to stay and (as much as we might want them to) will not disappear any time soon. One way to balance out our internal dialogue is to make the critic comparatively quieter by strengthening our nurturing internal dialogue.

Beginning this process through journaling helps us strengthen this voice in writing, with the aim that one day we’ll be able to shift the process to real time and have a compassionate, empathic response counteracting the inner critic’s complaints.

The cheerleading exercise above is helpful for this kind of strengthening. You can also use journaling to return to situations that roused the inner critic, and retrospectively respond in writing with the kind of dialogue that would come from a gentler nurturing voice.

Having strengthened my own nurturing voice through journaling, it’s now a lot easier to access that voice internally when my critic appears.

The parts of our internal dialogue are like muscles: the more we use them, the stronger they become. Developing a supportive, empathic dialogue comes with consistent practice over time. With conscious care and attention, however, it is possible to shift our internal dialogue from criticism and blame to empathy and acceptance.

How do you calm your inner critic?

Photo by Renata Diem

Experience: Letting Go

2013-03-01T10:47:00.001-05:00

Letting Go
by Nadia Sweeting

I am absolutely in love with the Tiny Buddha website. Their slogan is "simple wisdom for complex lives." By no means is the website suggesting you must be a practicing Buddha to peruse the site. I think the slogan describes a lot of us out here in the world of parenthood, adulthood and just lifehood (yes I made this word up!). ! I am a true believer in needing to let go in order to let in all of the good that God has for us.

I came across this article, and wanted to share it with the world. For those who share a common thread of allowing, even for a moment, the pass to drive your daily thought, this article sheds light on how to Let Go and Let In.

My goal is to allow myself to be ME. Allow myself to love ME...short hair, curvy funny chica! Allow myself to let go of the negativity that clouds my head and block my positive thoughts. Letting go is a natural process of maturing. Growing into the person God has intended you to be. Lately, I've been battling this internal "Civil War" between my feelings and thoughts. This article has shed light on true significance of this "battle" and the cause for the battle.

Enjoy the article...and when you get a chance, check out Tiny Buddha. Nice insight nuggets!

YOU ARE WORTHY OF RECEIVING: 10 THINGS TO LET INTO YOUR LIFE

Editor’s Note: This is a contribution by Kathy Kruger

“Happiness is really a deep inner satisfaction and approval” ~Francis Wiltshire

At the start of the year many of us make resolutions about what we want to give up, what we need to let go—from quitting smoking (did that 20+ years ago), to cutting back on alcohol (a work in progress), to cutting back on not-so-healthy foods (also in progress), to letting go of past “demons.”

There’s a lot to be gained by letting go of past pain, by breaking bad habits. But what if we thought more in terms of what we might welcome into our lives—what we might be open to receiving?

Even diet companies cash in on this positive psychology. Don’t talk of losing weight, but gaining health; think of eating a delicious salad rather than sacrificing that block of chocolate.

But how often do we convince ourselves that we must do all the hard work of letting go and giving up before we are worthy to receive?

I’ve always been better at giving than receiving, so when it comes to letting go and letting in, I’ve focused on what I needed to give up, to let go, the work I needed to do in order to be better.

I’ve put the pressure on myself to self-heal rather than asking for help. I haven’t always been open to receiving compassion and love, since I wasn’t sure I deserved them.

And conversely, I’ve given more and more of myself in the hopes I might thus be worthy of receiving, which is not genuine giving anyway.

I did this especially when I was going through infertility, but I still find myself doing it now—making deals with myself to let go of fear, pain, and jealousy and to give more love, understanding, effort, and then surely I’ll be deserving of what I want.

The letting go proves you are strong and the giving proves you are good—don’t they?

In wanting the ultimate gift of a baby, I felt I needed to do a lot of letting go and lots of giving in order to receive such a precious prize. In the process I depleted myself.

At first I wore the whole IVF pain and suffering thing as a badge of honor, of martyrdom; if I endured enough, then I’d be worthy.

Then I felt guilty—surely I must have done something wrong to deserve such pain. Then I felt like I had to let go of the shame, the bad stuff I carried inside me, if I was ever to be worthy of being a mother. But shame is hard to shake.

Now, as Mom to our two beautiful adopted children, I have to catch myself berating myself, feeling the need to let go and give constantly. After all, I’ve been given the gift of “someone else’s children,” so I must prove my indebtedness, to somehow atone for the grief and loss my children’s birthparents must surely have felt.

Even with something as simple as yoga breathing, I always find it difficult to breathe in and out in a balanced way. I usually feel the need to exhale loud and long, to release all of the bad stuff (which is great), but at the same time I find it hard to take in a big full breath, as though I’m undeserving of such a gift.

So in 2013, if you are already struggling in your resolve to give up or let go, why don’t you join me in a challenge to “let in”? The change of focus may make all the difference.

1. LET IN AWARENESS.

Use your senses to really appreciate all that is around you. Nature has so much joy to give us on a daily basis if we will stop to watch, listen, touch, taste, and smell. The gift of this awareness is that we stop worrying so much about what’s going on inside ourselves. It is the gift of the present.

2. LET IN LOVE.

Love and accept yourself as you are so that you are open to receiving love. Sure, you might want to lose weight or be more positive or more confident, but you are still worthy. You don’t need to prove anything to approve of yourself. Letting in love makes you lovable.

3. LET IN COMPASSION.

Don’t be too busy feeling sorry for yourself (or judging yourself) to make room for others’ comfort. Don’t be too stoic to accept help. Don’t beat yourself up, thinking that you have to pull yourself out of your own mess or that you must do the hard yards alone.

4. LET IN FORGIVENESS.

Allow yourself to be forgiven by others, and most importantly, allow yourself to forgive your own mistakes. You are only human.

5. LET IN LAUGHTER.

It will lighten the mood.

6. LET IN JOY.

Love and joy are gifts we all deserve.

7. LET IN GRATITUDE.

Allow people to be grateful for what you do. Don’t dismiss what you do as “nothing.” Count your kindness, and allow yourself to feel good about it.

8. LET IN SILENCE.

Be prepared to sit with yourself and meditate on your own lovability rather than focusing on the things about yourself you’d like to change.

9. LET IN SERENDIPITY.

Be alert for things that happen out of the blue, even if at first they appear negative. Serendipity is good fortune that can come disguised as a lesson. Receive it as a blessing.

10. LET IN PAIN.

It sounds strange when you feel like you have enough pain inside you, or when you busy trying to get rid of it in order to be stronger and braver. But opening yourself up to the risk of being hurt allows you to realize that you are capable of handling the pain you already have.

And, the more pain you let yourself feel, the more you can alchemise into gain.

WE LET GO WHEN WE LET IN

The good stuff boots the bad stuff out of the way. Love expands and makes room for more abundance while conquering fear. Joy overcomes pain. The hard work of letting go becomes easier.

At the very least, it’s a yin yang balance equation—we need to allow ourselves to receive as much as we push ourselves to give up.

We don’t have to fully let go of our pasts, our mistakes, and our bad habits before we can receive the many gifts of the present. And in receiving freely, we open ourselves up to giving freely too.

After a lot of focus on letting go in 2012 (and for the last few years), the growth I want in 2013 will largely come from letting in. What will you let into your life this year?

Photo by mislav-m

- See more at: http://tinybuddha.com/blog/you-are-worthy-of-receiving-10-things-to-let-into-your-life/#sthash.7xgzGQSN.dpuf

Experience: Words are Powerful

2012-11-01T13:01:00.000-04:00

This election year has been filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. Being inundated with several phone calls and friendly faces at the grocery store asking whether you've registered to vote. The process get sort of long and drawn out, but the following clips stood out to me.

As a marketing professional, I am always criticizing commercials and their effectiveness. The following two commercials are the best so far, in my opinion. President Obama and Jay-z political commercials are the most effective political commercials I've seen in a long time.

Honesty and compassion goes along way...

Jay-z for Obama for America...

Experience: Not Feeling It Today

2012-10-30T12:43:00.001-04:00

Have you ever woke up and your spirit wasn't right?

I woke up this morning - thanked God for blessing me to see another day. As I laid in bed, I felt something strange in my spirit. I can't describe it but I felt it. I prayed that the feeling would disappear - go away but it's midday and I still feel this strange disposition in my spirit. Maybe I'm blowing it out of proportion, but I can't ignore it. I'm asking God to remove this spirit from my soul today. I prepare for the worse and expect no expectations.

God has sustained me through worst times and feelings. I want clarity and peace to ease my mind. God, I'm asking, I'm seeking your guidance today. Please speak to my heart. I need you more now than ever.

Experience: The Blues

2012-10-18T13:25:00.001-04:00

Mid 30's Crisis or "The Blues"
by: Nadia Sweeting

I must say what's on my heart. Here it goes......

Feeling confused and slightly frustrated with my thoughts and position today - more explicit, my position in my life. I am extremely thankful to god for granting me another day on this beautiful place we call Earth. I woke up this morning all confused for the lack of a better word. Confused about WHY, WHAT, WHEN.

Why do I feel this way?

What am I doing?

When did this feeling start?

The constant tug of being a single mother, career woman, sister, daughter, girlfriend and friend is ....not sure of the word here. I love my life and all the people who support me and why do I feel this way right now. I am exhausted and feel as if I've lost my passion and I'm searching for a path back to ME and what makes me happy. I was out of work (transitioning) for 8 months and during that time, I made it a point to build up my professional skills. I recently started a contract position with a Fortune 500 company and all is great, but why do I feel jumbled? I CAN most certainly do the work and is up for the challenge, but why do I fee jumbled? I am exhausted and blurred.

Whatever I'm feeling, makes me want to breakdown and cry. Totally dislike feeling this way. I am not depressed because I have faith in God that things will soon turn around. I have so many things to be thankful about - an amazing daughter; awesome significant other; great family and supportive friends. This is all on ME. I remain in constant prayer and know that my god is walking with me during this time.

Maybe it's mid 30's crisis who knows! Is there anyone else experiencing what I am feeling?

Changing my name to Blues Clues today

God's Allowance: Experiencing time in the Valley

2012-10-10T08:30:00.000-04:00

Lessons From The Valley
by Nadia Sweeting

For the past two weeks, I had the priviledge of listening and learning the true meaning of "the valley" as taught by my pastor, Arthur Jackson of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church Miami Gardens. Here are just some of my notes from the past two weeks...Lessons from the valley!

The pastor mentioned how there's both VALUE and POWER in the valley. The valley represents a low point in your life; a depression; uncomfortable situation. God put us in umcomfortable positions (valleys) in effort to force us to look up at Him for guidance and strength. Life is a balance - Peaks and Valleys. Valleys are surrounded by mountains and on the climb up, one must rely on God's guidance and path.

God gives us victory while in the valley. One must continue to praise God while in the valley. He still deliver His promises, despite our vices. According to Pastor Jackson, here are 4 reasons why God give you VICTORY while in the valley: POWER of the VALLEY (2 Chronicles 20:13-17)

Manipulate your perspective (2 Chronicles 20:16)

Valleys place you in a lower perspective which forces you to look up (v.12) The situation is forcing you to look up! Eyes not on the situation, but on GOD!

Manufacture some patience

God requires more from our lives; God requires us to hang in there to the end of the valley. One must ask...do you have enough trust to hang in there to see to the end? When one get to the end of the valley, you must stand there and BE STILL and WORSHIP HIM! The God that stations you, is the same god that sustains you.

Manifest His presence (2 Chronicles 20:17)

You have to see all sides of god. In the valley, you experience god's hands. In the valley, god put you in a situation for you to share your testimony with others about god.

Magnify your praise (2 Chronicles 20:20-22)

Jehoshaphat teaches us about praising god

Preparation for praise - they praised early in the morning
Place for praise - real praisers pray anywhere
Priority of praise - make pray/praise your priority
Power of praise - praise god before the situation; god moves before your situation.

Victory teaches one how to receive God; Vision teaches one to see God; Value teaches one how to pray and rely on God! While in the valley, one must realize the VALUE in the Valley (Psalm 23).

We've all heard Psalm 23 and have memorized the passage. My pastor explained this passage in such a way that I was blown away. David spent time in the valley(v.4). God gave David 3 things: Green Pastures, Geniune Peace and Godly Path

One may ask...how do you get out of the valley? According to Pastor Jackson, one must:

Keep moving through the valley

Keep moving forward. God has equipped you with everything you need to move forward

Manage your fear in the valley

A shadow denotes interference of light; something in the way of light. Your valley can't kill you!

Keep your mind on the feast after the valley

God has something waiting for you at the end of the valley. Keep your mind on what's at the end of the valley. Like a distance runner, you must equip yourself with the proper clothing, shoes and gear in efforts to keep your mind on the finish line. No matter how rough the valley appears or may be, god has something waiting for you.

The final lesson here is in Psalm 23,
God was...BEFORE David (as his shepherd) while he entered the valley (v.1-3)
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
²He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
³he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.

God was WITH David while in the valley (v.4)
⁴Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,^[a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

God was BEHIND David out of the valley (v.5-6)

⁵You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
⁶Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.

Take the time today to thank God for the small things as well as the big things. Thank God for your valleys and struggles for you know that victory is waiting on you at the end. I thank HIM everyday and all day for the victories and trials.

Experience: Being Sick!

2012-10-05T15:27:00.000-04:00

Today, I'm not feeling so good. I am exhausted and have no energy.

I thought today was Saturday...just a day off.

I must retreat back to my bed for rest. No appetite, just gummy bears.

Enjoy: Technology is Key

2012-10-02T10:14:00.000-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY BEST FRIEND AND MY SISTER

MAKEBA DARDEN

Today, my best friend and sister, Makeba Darden was featured on the front page of the Miami Herald newspaper. Makeba, a graduate of University of Miami and current MBA candidate at University of Phoenix, is a Mathematics teacher at Norland Middle School in Miami Gardens, Florida. She's passionate about teaching students in the critical shortage area of Math. Makeba discussed how she move her students despite the lack of technology in the classroom. Makeba has maintained high standards when it comes to preparing her students for Florida's controversial Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT).

Makeba Darden, Mathematics Teacher,
Norland Middle School

This article discuss how there's a lack of updated technology in Miami-Dade County Public School system and teachers uses antiquated technology to instruct students. On November 6th, Miami-Dade County residents will have the opportunity to vote on a spending plan for $1.2 billion bond issue. "Every Miami-Dade classroom would also get some kind of interactive device, like a SMART board, under the preliminary plan. Many educators say the digital boards make class more visual, allow multimedia-rich lessons and keep the attention of students, who can touch and manipulate the screen."

Again, congratulations to Makeba Darden!!!

Experience, The WedTin Experience!

2012-09-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

Are you a bride? Know a bride? Are a Maid of Honor or Bridesmaid and you're looking for a wedding day emergency kit? If so, continue reading! A new and exciting product just hit the web just in time for fall wedding season. The wait is over Chicas...welcome the WedTin™ Experience!!!!

Nadashi Marketing is so excited to announce the launch of their newest product, WedTin™ Bridal Emergency Tin.

What is WedTin™ ?

Whether it’s a safety pin or stain remover, turn to your WedTin, so your wedding can go off without a hitch. WedTin™ contains the most critical and common emergency tools to rescue a bride and her party on her WedTin day.the day.

No more are the days of dumping your maid of honor's designer bag or ransacking the hotel room for a safety pin or scissors. Turn to your very own WedTin Bridal Emergency Tin for all of your wedding day needs.

Order your WedTin Today!

WedTin Bridal Emergency Tin
Content

How much for Gratuity? ...TinSense Tip

WedTin Bridal Emergency Tin also come with what we call, "TinSense Tips." Let us enhance your WedTin experience with a few tips on the multiple uses of the content. Example: TinSense Tip# 1 - Vaseline. Can be used as lip gloss.

Every budget savvy bride would appreciate the tips...and if you have any additional tips that we could use love to hear from you.

Order your WedTin Today!

WedTin™ is the first product launched by Nadashi Marketing. WedTin™ was created based on the needs of some of our clients which may include brides and recording artists.
Recently, while planning a family member's wedding, the creation of WedTin was born!!!
My daughter came up with the name not bad for a spunky 12 year!!! If you haven't notice, WedTin is a play on the word wedding. I told you she was spunky.

For more information on WedTin Bridal Emergency Tin, visit our site www.wedtin.com or send and email for more information, info@wedtin.com.

What an experience...a WedTin Experience!!!

About Nadashi Marketing
Created by Miami-born sisters, Nadia and Natasha Sweeting, Nadashi Marketing was launched in the fall of 2010. Nadashi Marketing is a rare combination of talents merging to create a dynamic business awesome-ship. We’re a marketing and branding boutique firm poised to assist businesses and entrepreneurs as they rise to the next level.

EVOLVE: National Association of Professional Women Newest Member: ME!!!

2012-09-20T11:56:00.001-04:00

Evolving into the Professional Woman God made me to be
By: Nadia Sweeting

As of September 19th, I was accepted into the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW)! What an honor it is to be accepted into such a wonderful organization. As a NAPW member, I will enjoy the benefit of meeting other professional women, exchange ideas, attend webinars and the enjoyment of promoting my business, Nadashi Marketing, that I share with my sister-preneuer, Natasha.

I see big things in our future and being associated with such a great organization is a blessing. Stay tuned for what's on the horizon for Nadashi Marketing!

Check out my profile - Share this Profile

Evolving into a professional woman feels GREAT!

Experience & Evolve: MY BOOKSHELF...Produced by Faith by DeVon Franklin

2012-09-13T14:12:00.001-04:00

What to do when you experience a career transition...read Produced by Faith

by Nadia Sweeting

September 13, 2012

Being unemployed is discouraging, having faith in God is ENCOURAGING!

As of September 9th, it made 7 months of being out of work. I like to term my situation as "transition" opposed to "unemployed" because I am in transition of a new career. I must admit I get pretty down and hard on myself with this area. Over the past 4 years, I've been unemployed 3 times...not a good stat!

After I apply for a position, I log it down on a Word document. I took a look at the amount of pages I have saved and it was starling. I have 97 pages worth of job postings that I've accumulated since July! I've applied to hundreds of jobs since being let go from my last position in February. This is so disappointing considering I am well-educated and experienced. I apply for positions within and outside of my field and I am either over qualified or under qualified. To be honest, I am so confused. I've done all that was "required" of me....attend school obtain an education; work to provide for your family, but somewhere down the line I feel that I've crossed over to the wrong path. This path has led me to unemployment, layoffs and failed commitments. I am unsure whether it's my location, South Florida or my experience.

I approach each interview with positivity, great attitude and interest. I know that an interview is a 50/50 chance and when an employers view my resume, they interpret one thing opposed to reality. It was never my intentions to "job hop" as it has been mentioned to me, but my intentions were always to grow and prosper. If that's what most view as "job hopping" then I apologize. It's very hard for me to open up about my transition trials, but I know that I am not alone. I pray every day,all day that God make a move on my situation and in my favor.

I am single mother of one and I am her role model. I must continue to provide for her needs as well as mine. Today, it's an employer's market, not an employee's market. I thought about returning back to school to learn a new skill, but I have over $100K in school loans and it's not feasible for me to obtain another Master's degree. I am discounted from positions based on my education, so obtaining another degree would make it worse. I've had employers tell me that my experience is greater than what they are looking for...as a Marketing Coordinator and less than Director of Marketing. How do I process that information. I guess I became so immune to the excuses and results. Looking for work is a job, but I am in search of a career.

In the midst of the heartache and disappointment of not landing a job, I must continue to believe that this is all God's plan. Maybe I'm supposed to develop a new skill which I wouldn't be able to do while working...who knows. I want to work in order to be the provider for my child. She's an aspiring volleyball player- the next Destinee Hooker, Olympic Champion. It serves me heart good to see her participate in something she loves. Her passion inspires me to get up every morning and search, network, apply for jobs and follow up.

Produced By Faith
DeVon Franklin

During this transition period, I read a great book, Produced By Faith by DeVon Franklin. I highly recommend this book to everyone who's in "transition" between jobs. Franklin colorfully illustrates how your "spiritual career" journey parallels the steps involved in developing and producing a movie. "Career should be a spiritual pursuit, not just a physical or financial one." (page 15)

This book has opened my eyes to see that in spite of my setbacks and difficulties in my "spiritual career", God is ALWAYS in control when it seems as if we're out of control. As one receive the proverbial "pink slip", God is there to hand you favor. "The more you trust God to lead you to glory, even through layoffs and setbacks, conflicts and failed ideas, the more success and joy you will find." (page 18).

I pray daily that god continues to bless and guide me and my career. My sanctuary is the bathroom - this is one of the only places (besides the beach) where my connection to God is at its greatest. The bathroom is the place where I hear God speak to me as clear to my heart. Franklin mentions how "we should stop, quiet our minds and listen to God's voice speaking to us." God whispered to start a business, Nadashi Marketing, with my sister, Natasha. During my transition period, trusting God's plan to leap into a venture with his favor and blessings, is imperative. It's imperative that everyone take the time to read this book and your bible.

All of my fellow Career Transitioners listen up! During my transition period, God has been my rock. This book was my reassuring to me in respect that it's OK to be in "transition." Majority of successful people experienced "transitions" and bouts of unemployment. I wanted to share a few highlights from Produced By Faith. I am an avid highlighter when I read and I've taken the liberty of pointing out some pages for you to pay attention to:

Pages: 47, 99-101
Pages: 115-119, 148-149(I wrote all over those pages)
Pages: 177-8, 187, 212, 214

CHAPTER 14 - You, The Sequel- is the most important and direct piece of writing.

JUST READ THE ENTIRE BOOK!!!

Enjoy: Feeling Funny

2012-09-04T15:21:00.000-04:00

Today, I wanted to post some of the most underrated funny movie scenes. I gravitate to the most obscure and find the smallest and unnoticed scene as funny and memorable. The following clips are just a few of millions that I feel deserve a spot on my "Feeling Funny Movie Clips"!

Movie: Mr. Bean

Scene: Flipping off- Hilarious

Movie: Bridesmaid

Scene: Bridal Shower Scene

Movie: Bad Boys II

Scene: Daughter Dating Scene

Movie: All About The Benjamins

Scene: Shopping Scene

Movie: Soul Train Award

Scene: Madea/ Tyler Perry

Movie: Due Date

Scene: Peter and the Kids

Movie: Finding Nemo

Scene: Crush

Movie: Life

Scene: Cornbread

Movie: White Chicks

Scene: Terry Crews Clips

Movie: Cat In The Hat

Scene: Kitchen/Infomercial/I'mma a girl-dress

More to come...Stay Tuned!

Evolve: Finding Myself

2012-08-30T11:14:00.000-04:00

I came across this article while on Oprah.com. I will start mediating and become more aware of self. Who's in with me to mediate today?

True Intimacy: How to Let Someone Really See You

By: Ed and Deb Shapiro

Photo: Thinkstock

Meditation enables you to accept discomfort instead of trying to smooth over or deny the bumps. You can accept embarrassment and shame, gently embracing whatever is there. Accepting yourself as you are is immensely liberating. As one of our teachers said, "Never be embarrassed by yourself."

Accepting and Loving Yourself!
Find a comfortable place to sit with your back straight and close your eyes.

Become aware of your breath. Silently repeat three times: "I am aware that I am breathing." Your breath is your best friend...the closer you are to your breath, the greater the feeling of inner peace.

Now bring awareness to your physical body. Silently repeat three times: "I am aware of the whole of my body." Visualize your body as if it were a temple...you live in this temple your whole life...know that your body is a blessing, a great gift.

Now focus awareness to the center of your heart...breathe into this space, into your heartspace...your heart is like a beautiful flower opening in the sun. Silently repeat three times: "I am aware of my heart opening."

Your life is a gift to be cherished...treasure yourself always. Silently repeat: "My breath is my friend...my body is my temple...my heart is open and loving."

When you are ready, take a deep breath and open your eyes.

Ed and Deb Shapiro are the authors of Be The Change, How Meditation Can Transform You and the World. They are featured weekly contributors to Oprah.com, HuffingtonPost.com and Care2.com. Ed and Deb write Sprint's The Daily CHILLOUT inspirational text messages. They have three meditation CDs: Metta: Loving Kindness and Forgiveness, Samadhi: Breath Awareness and Insight and Yoga Nidra: Inner Conscious Relaxation. Deb is also the author of the best-selling book Your Body Speaks Your Mind, winner of the 2007 Visionary Book Award.

My Birthday Goodies Continued!!!

2012-08-28T19:10:00.001-04:00

My Birthday Goodies continued...

My sisters treated me to a great dinner at SoLita Las Olas.

SoLita Las Olas Menu

Located at 1032 E. Las Olas Blvd., SoLita has the best Italian food in town. SoLita has amazing food, lack back atmosphere with great drinks music. The DJ was slammin' ( hope I did not age myself :)
I had their grilled chicken Caesar salad- it's to die for!!! Check out some pictures our delicious meals

Chicken Alfredo

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Add caption

The drinks were AWESOME!

At the end of the night, the SoLita staff all gathered around our table and sang happy Birthday to me. Having Italian men sing to me...want a birthday goodies! I was presented with my birthday dessert...Chocolate cheesecake with truffles. The crust was superb! A must must try!!!!

It was a beautiful birthday!

Birthday Goodies!!!

2012-08-23T17:44:00.000-04:00

I love love love GOODIES....and my family and friends are well aware that I LOVE GOODIES!!!

My sister bought me a bottle of wine and the BESTEST- yes I said BESTEST - cupcakes ever in the world....Misha's Cupcakes.

Misha's Mini Cupcake

The owner, Misha, has a wonderful and cute business in Miami. Everytime I go to Miami, I make it my business to stop by Misha's to grab a cupcake or two, or three or twelve. Not to mention, Misha and I were high school classmates - Go Cavaliers!

My second goody was given to me by a family friend owns a jewelry business, For Women With Style. The owner, Dee, customized my Lady In Red..Earrings just for me.

She customize each jewelry piece to your request. The jewelry speaks to women with style and who has a flare to dare!

Happy Birthday to ME!

Smooches!