LIVING BY FAITH

New Me, New year of 46!

2026-09-28T00:16:18.377-05:00

Last year, turning 45 felt amazing. I was so happy, and it truly felt like my life was just beginning. Everything was wonderful. Then came last October, which was devastatingly rough when Robert Strohmeier passed away. My love for Robert was deep, and losing him along with the life we shared was the hardest thing I have ever gone through. Moving away from the perfect apartment I loved was tough, but living with family was the best choice for me at the time. Life had changed so quickly. Through it all, my community, my church, and endless prayers carried me. I cried out to the Lord constantly to help me through the deep pain. I really had to pick myself up from the weight of my grief. The lowest point came during the winter. So much had happened that there were times I felt like I wasn't even truly living. I wasn't the same smiling Isleen everyone knew. I had to face choices I never dreamed I would have to make. The turning point came at the gym. I decided to get back on the rowing machine after I found a strand of Robert’s hair on my workout gloves. I’m not sure why or how it got there, but in that moment, I knew I couldn't give up on moving forward. Slowly, I began meeting new friends and coming back to life. I started volunteering on Saturdays at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society thrift store. Folding Marine uniforms for active-duty members brought me so much joy even the drive onto the base every Saturday filled my heart. I know Robert would be proud of me for serving. In the spring, I also began volunteering with a Doberman rescue, and I loved every minute of hugging those dogs. Volunteering has been the best medicine for my grief; serving others is a constant reminder that life isn't just about our own pain, but about reaching out to help others. So, what does 46 look like? In some ways, it feels like 26 when I was trying to finish my undergraduate degree, at 36, I was hoping to marry my long-term ex boyfriend at the time. But at 46, things are different. Life is beginning with a fresh, new direction.For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11

2026-09-14T11:10:08.878-05:00

15 years ago, I lost a great man who was my dad. His name is Dan Rodriguez. He died today in 2011 from colon cancer. This past weekend, I was reading one of my dad’s writings called "Family." I hope you enjoy his words today. Some of you will cry, some of you will smile, and some of you will remember his words—he’s never forgotten. He was a great father to me, and I want to share a little bit with the world as his daughter today to remember him. "Family¨ By Dan Rodriguez Many have said blood is thicker than water. This meaning is foreign to many because of brokenness. Dictionary says family is a fundamental social group in society of a parent and children. Tears and fears fill many families, bringing feelings of apathy and indifference. At the end there is much regret and much heartache, with so little to cherish. Look and see around you and connect the few who you speak with. Many go through a lifetime and never see what is before their eyes: that the same blood doesn’t always run in those who are family. Because they have seen you down and out, and yet they are still there. The sky is black out, but there is still a smile to offer on cold days. Who determined that there must be hate for family or any resemblances of it? Some claim their pets as the best family they have in their life. Some look to their work and hobbies to provide what family failed to complete. Trains only run one way, taking their occupants to their target, but take no consideration of feelings or ability to adapt at their destination. Fathers like mothers feel so inadequate to raise children that see them as discarding them. The line must be drawn where the father stops hating and the son or daughter begins to take a stand to love or to care, to see the good and not the dreadful. Who took the first step to care and to give so that some could receive on Christmas? Honesty, are we good enough to receive when really we should be giving? Look past the facade and the roughness and see the child crying inside in the corner. Would you not comfort such a youngster and try to rally round him? Oh sinister heart and bent mind, call yourself to walk where you’ve not been. We were offered something we did not deserved, and blood was shed to cover, so that we could walk better and talk a new way to facilitate those hurt and broken around us. Oh that we would release the scars and let the hurt be in the past and not the present. To stretch our arms to those that we’ve not called family for so long. Family is you and me, just thinking of the good and the precious few moments together for ever. A lover cherishes one kiss for a lifetime and a friend a hug for decades past. Yet families only remember the darkness and shadows cast to the present and future. Take the one good moment in time and freeze it and rewind it as many times necessary. To get to as the lover treasuring the kiss through time, never looking to destroy but to build. Hope, trust, confidence, poise, coolness, and any one moment we can say the word family. Because family does not end at the demise but goes on through unseen levels forever.

The Folded Flag on a Sugar Packet: Remembering Robert

2026-08-19T09:18:42.983-05:00

I was sitting at a Mexican restaurant with my mom, enjoying our meal and sharing a glass of tea, when my eyes caught the small sugar packet on the table. Printed on the paper was the Folds of Honor folded flag. In an instant, my heart sank. I quietly told my mom, “I need a moment of silence.” Many of you know that my late boyfriend, Robert Strohmeier, passed away last October 29th. It ushered in the hardest, most heartbreaking season of my life. Robert served in the Marine Corps from 2006 to 2010, deploying for two tours in Iraq and completing 63 combat infantry missions, including in Ramadi. He served our country with fierce dedication and honor. We first connected online just before Thanksgiving in 2024. Knowing he was a Marine veteran immediately stood out to me, but it was his infectious laughter and deep, thoughtful conversation that truly drew me in. After spending hours talking on the phone, we met in person a week later in early December. When I first visited his apartment, I met his two service dogs a Doberman and a Boxer mix. Despite having over a thousand friends on social media, Robert was deeply isolated, living without close family or friends nearby in the DFW area. On our first date, he walked me out to my car, opened my door, and asked when he would see me again. From that night on, we saw each other every single day, eventually moving in together in the months that followed. At the time, I was navigating my own painful separation after my ex-husband walked away from our marriage. In each other, Robert and I found purpose and companionship. We weren't alone anymore. I truly loved Robert, and I felt deep in my heart that it was my calling to serve and care for him because he had given so much serving our country. During that first year together, his veteran benefits had been stopped, and he was fighting through the exhausting process of trying to appeal them. With money so tight, I stepped in to buy our groceries, stock our essentials, feed the dogs, and take care of the apartment. Together with our fur babies, we became a real family. During the day, Robert worked nearby at a men’s clothing store doing what he genuinely loved, styling and dressing men for their most important life events. Yet beneath his warm exterior, Robert fought invisible wars. Robert was not a fan of large crowds, and on high-anxiety days, even stepping outside the front door felt impossible. Something as ordinary as a stray Target bag blowing across the middle of the road could instantly trigger combat trauma. There were good days in the daytime, but there were also very bad days. Nighttime, however, was where the deepest battle began. Sleeping beside him, I witnessed the weight of what he carried. He fought unseen enemies in his sleep, tossing and turning through devastating nightmares he could never bring himself to speak aloud. He would wake suddenly at 2:00, 4:00, or 6:00 in the morning, exhausted from the struggle. Grief has a way of finding you in the quietest, most unexpected moment even on a simple sugar packet across a lunch table. But even in the midst of remembering his pain and mourning his loss, I hold on to the love we shared and the promise of Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Welcome back to my blog, its 2026!

2026-08-05T00:42:26.863-05:00

Hey, welcome back to my blog! I had this crazy idea: if MySpace is making a comeback, why not bring my blog back to life too? The last time many of you read my blog was in 2020. We were living through quarantine, and the world felt completely different. Fast forward to 2026, and so much has changed. Technology has evolved, writing has evolved, and yes even I'm using AI to help with grammar, sentence structure, and organizing my thoughts. But don't worry... the words and the heart behind them are still mine. While I'll share more of my story over time, I'm not going to let the cat out of the bag just yet. There have been many changes in my life, and you'll discover them one post at a time. One thing, however, has never changed: my faith. My faith has carried me through life's highs and lows and has made me into a stronger woman. It reminds me that true beauty comes from both the inside and the outside. When life gets difficult, I turn to prayer. I open my Bible and remember one of my favorite verses: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 That promise has given me hope more times than I can count. One thing that also helps me stay focused is worship. Whether it’s acoustic worship music or simple guitar worship, those quiet moments help me slow down, clear my mind, and keep my eyes on God. Sometimes all it takes is a worship song to remind me that He is in control. As this new chapter begins, I hope you’ll keep coming back. There are stories to tell, lessons I’ve learned, and adventures still ahead. One thing you will quickly discover is that I have a heart for supporting our military veterans. I’ll share more about that journey very soon. Thank you for stopping by, and welcome to this new chapter. I can’t wait to share it with you.

Quarantine Life 2020

2020-05-25T19:07:00.003-05:00

In February the virus situation was hitting Europe. I knew my mission trip for July for 2020 was going to be postponed with my church.

Quarantine life hit after I had visited my family & went to the beach in South Texas during spring break. Hardest part is not hugging my papa goodbye. It was difficult for me because my papa is 99 years old. Was it a shock? Yes. Quarantine life was an unusual situation in my life.

Job situation & Life: I went through the same thing almost 10 years ago, I was laid off for a job for a year & half while I was working on my master degree. I worked part time as a front desk agent at a major hotel chain. My dad died of colon cancer that year. That period of my life was the most difficult time of my life. What did I learn from that season? Enjoy life like it’s your last day in your surroundings. Be in word ( Bible) and be close to G-d. Forgive and love others (you never know when it’s your last day on earth). Serve. Don’t waste your time watching TV at home. Read a good book. Learn something new.

When I was home and dealing with the 1st day of quarantine life I dealt with allergies issues. I was scared to walk into a clinic or doctor office. I went to CVS minute clinic. It was ruled out that I had allergies infection. I was well after a few weeks of rest. Life was different for us as a family living in quarantine life. Living together as a family was interesting. It felt like a retreat with all kinds of daily projects around the house . Yes, we did sneak a few Netflix & Disney shows in between. We cooked our home meals and ate at the family dinner some nights. Game nights and Bible studies were included. We learned a lot from each other during these times. Mentally it was draining for some of us to be in this new life. I'm an outgoing person and it was difficult to adapt to this new lifestyle with isolation. I remembered to slow down and allow Jesus has taken the wheel on this virus situation. I was on my knees praying and crying to G-d for our nation. Our nation would be healed. Shelter in place was lifted on May 1st in Texas. My papa went to heaven on May 4th. My family & I were able to buried my Papa 8th of May. We were all wearing our masks at my papa’s funeral. It’s been a crazy season in our lives.

What did I learn being in quarantine life? Love your family as they are. Journal as much as you can. Slow down. Connect with nature as often as you can. Have pray walks. Have more faith with the Lord. Learn to call your family on phone and not text. Take walks each night as you can.

What is a head of our future? We don’t know, but I’m trusting in the Lord today. Yes, I will always wear a mask while we are still fighting this COVID-19 in this nation and this world. Will I travel again, yes. Also, I will always miss my papa who was 99 years young.

“ABBA, Father in Heaven"

2019-09-28T10:39:00.001-05:00

I was 16 years old almost 23 years ago when I wrote this small piece to myself from my Bible.

Little did I know this written piece would bless me this past week and may it help you in your life.

“Father” Who lives in the sky above me. Every second he is watching me and seeing what I’m doing. His hands are always open to me. Sometimes I feel his hugs against me. When I praise to him and my hands are high in the sky. I feel like they are close to mine. I cry and my father stands up above me. His love is towards me when it’s needed 24-7. This world need him and they don’t know how much greater than anything else is. I’m writing this to those whom are reading this posting.

If you are lonely, sad, rejected, depressed, have a broken heart 💔, you are never alone in this world. There are others who love you and a father above who is looking out for you.

As my father would always say to us kiddos, “Jesus is Lord." In memory of you dad, Dan Rodriguez on my birthday this week.

Portugal 2019

2019-08-15T13:41:00.000-05:00

When I was seventeen, I promised Jesus I would give my heart ️ to the mission field for Him.

I owe it all to Him, Jesus. Almost 20 years later, I’m still called to the mission field in my hometown or in another country.

As I left the country of Portugal my heart wanted to take Portugal back home to Texas.

Portugal is a beautiful country. The people of Portugal are beautiful.

The language of Portuguese is beautiful to speak.

The food was delicious. The coffee was excellent and inexpensive. I could have coffee at breakfast, lunch & dinner in one day.

The evangelical churches are few. It is a beautiful country, but lack of churches within Baptist community churches. My heart ️ cries for all churches in Portugal.

As we visited each church in Northern Portugal and prayed with their pastors I wanted to bring them and their church families home to Texas.

Portugal is a beautiful country with beautiful landscape filled with beautiful flowers everywhere. I could take taken thousands of pictures of all the flowers & trees.

Mark 16:15 (NIV) 15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”

Below are a few pictures of Portugal below:

Foods: https://www.authenticfoodquest.com/popular-portuguese-dishes/

Things to do:https://www.thecrazytourist.com/25-best-things-portugal/

Super Hero Dad

2019-06-17T16:42:00.000-05:00

To the next generation of dads, “Be a hero to your kiddo.” Be there to cheer your kiddos as they finish their goals in the race of life.

This past year, I have prayed & watched other dads grow with their kiddos. My brother taking his only daughter to her dance class & watching her grow.

Also, I had watched my boyfriend’s son graduate high school & receiving Eagle Scout award. We are very proud of his son.

My dad never thought of himself as hero to us kiddos.

He always put us first. An example: Dad would order a pizza for us kids on a Friday night. When the pizza arrived dad would let us eat first before he ate. Dad always made sure we were fed, safe, loved & happy.

Bulletproof by JD Rodriguez (my Dad). 06.30.1999

2 Corinthians 13:9

“We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is for your perfection.”

I have always enjoyed watching the old movies of Superman where George Reeves (later Christopher Reeves) portrays the man with the big S on the chest just waiting for the bad guys to shoot at him. I always knew that those bullets would bounce off in every situation but nonetheless I watched intently.

Superman was expected to defend the fears of all men by using his natural powers for the cause of good. Even the bad guys knew that their bullets were just being wasted when they shot at the man of the steel, yet then shot him for our entertainment. I often thought when I was very young that if I just wore the right uniform or the right cape, I would be just like Superman. Up to this day, I still have not found anything that I can wear to help me against the bullets of life except for Word of God.

Paul tells us that when we are weak God is strong in us. Many times we forget that God is right there the whole times we are so low because of comments made towards us. Paul wrote from experience of so many lows in his life when he rejected, neglected, abused, and refused. He came to his Christian walk to the point to where he depended on God’s word more than he did on man words. No matter what he was told negatively to him, he held God’s word much higher than any words from man. In other words, whatever bad things he was told, he let those words directed to him just bounce off of him. He bulletproof himself with word of God for the bad days when the enemy would come against him through individual not in line with God. I feel so good knowing Gods hold me up so much higher than any man on this earth. Paul speaks for us to continue to be strong in God striving for perfection just like Christ.

Yesterday, I visited a friend who’s thyroid glad was removed because of cancer in his throat area. He told me that while he was in intensive care room recovering from the operation, he spoke the word of God to his nurse.

He quoted Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Tears ran down her eyes because here was a man laid wounded from surgery, but yet he was quoting encouraging uplifting words to her.

Through his misery of surgery he was very weak but became strong when he focuses God’s word. When are weak, and ye are strong. God will make us bulletproof to our pain to our misery to our weakest areas when we remember and lift up the word God to over selves and those around us.

Isn’t God just wonderful to have words that go far beyond what our frail vulnerable bodies that can only tolerate so much, yet the word of God can lift our hearts and minds to where eagles, Boeings and space shuttle fly no matter how much our emotions shakes.

Be Ready!

Portugal

2019-06-17T16:11:00.001-05:00

The Call- Last November is when I received an application to go on a mission trip for Porto, Portugal & Spain for July 15th 2019 for about a week. I said to myself, I don’t know & prayed about this mission trip.

Faith- Well, things started to work out to go on this mission trip including, working 2nd part time job. Everything seems work together like a puzzle piece for this trip. I felt like Jesus gave me thumbs up for this mission trip.

Trust Jesus if you are working through a job, your family's life, mission trip, or a life situation.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Jeremiah 29:11 ESV

The Mission- We will be singing to promote local churches around for Northern Portugal & Spain during our mission trip.

Pray- Please continue pray for me & all folks I am traveling. Please pray for us as we minister to the local Portugal people.

If you are interested in reading what I have written about my desires being on the mission field which I can give a link to read my article I had written 7 years ago. Click Here.

My church’s website: North Richland Hills Baptist Church

Be Blessed.

Iamisleen

Why ?

2018-06-24T23:09:00.001-05:00

It’s been 6 years since my dad passed from colon cancer. This year will be 6^th year not celebrating Father’s Day on June 19^th and his 64^th birthday on 28^th of June.

I ask myself Why God? Why did you take away a good man from this world? Why did you take away my father from our family? Why did I have to have this pain in my heart for sooo long? Why did I have to walk in this depression? Why did my mom have her husband taken away, since they had known each other since high school? There are many “why” questions on my mind.

As, I look back, the Lord had told me as my dad was dying 6 years ago, “I am in Control and you are Not.” Today, I still remember those words loud and clear from the Lord.

There is a purpose for everything. The struggle is tough in life. Nothing is easy in life including losing your loved one. It’s a fight each day to be focused in our daily life. Life is not easy. It’s a true test if you are going to pass the test each day in your life. My dad told me once when we were at the gas station, “You are breathing, alive, have a good job, healthy, blessed and cancer free! Be happy where you are! Look at me. I’m in chemo and struggling with cancer.” I never looked at life the same again.

This is one of my dad’s stories:

Glimpse of Jesus as of 02/10/2000 written by Dan Rodriguez

Job 23:9-10

“When he is at work in the North , I do not see him, he turns to the south, I catch no glimpse of him. But he knows the way that I take: when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

Paul of Tarsus did not even see Jesus when he was struck by a light from Heaven that flashed around him on the road to Damascus, but it completely changed his life when he spoke to Paul, “ Saul, Saul why do you persecute me?” A glimpse of a light shone so bright that it knocked him down beneath himself. Before Paul could really see Jesus, he had to be knock off his pride, off his high horse, off from the chip on his shoulder that he had against Christians. Before he could even get a glimpse of who this Jesus was, he had to travel on this road to Damascus. Many of us know this road to Damascus because we had to be lowered before we were lifted in Jesus.

In this verse above, Job was saying that he could not see the Lord in the North, South, or any where else but yet he was trusting in him because no matter if he didn’t see him he would continue to serve and trust in him. Job was so low that he could hardly see above the grass, but yet would say things like, “ when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” Paul and Job both got very low in life to the point that eventually the Lord lifted them as he has you and me where no man, no thing, no event could hurt our spirit. The mere glimpse of seeing him or expecting to see a glimpse of Jesus can either way dramatically change anyone’s life.

I myself was attending a Bible Conference by T.D. Jakes being held here at Reunion Area back in 1997 in February. There was a great worship atmosphere in the whole place. After Ron Konolis’ thundering worship song and Joyce Myers speaking, all of sudden, for a glimpse, I saw someone walk in front of the large speaking stand. I seemed to have seen this person before many times even though he had long brown/blondish hair, a glimmering shiny white robe, wearing a beard, with sandals. For about three or four steps, I saw him causally walk in as if he had done this hundreds of times before. I quickly turned to see if my wife was seeing what I had just witnessed, but when I turned back to look, he was gone from my sight. I seemed to be the only one seeing this phenomenon. I continued to look for him in the stands to my left and to my right, but I could not see him any longer. When I looked at each side of this large place, I heard commotion coming from each area. One woman was jumping so high that, I though she would fall. Later, I found out that God had healed this woman and another from a shattered leg from an accident while the other was healed from extreme leg and angle bone problems. Jesus somehow had walked in and healed them miraculously touching both individuals that day. Somehow, the Lord had allowed me to just catch a glimpse of him walking in before he actually did these healings. My Life also has not been the same since that day.

A glimpse of Jesus whether you expect to see him like Job or whether you’ve actually seen him does not matter because ITS FAITH THAT ALWAYS CREATES THE MIRACLES in our lives. If you loose faith in yourself, you loose faith in everyone around you eventually. You must hold on to the reality THAT ONE DAY YOU WILL SEE THE LORD IN PERSON BEFORE YOUR EYES. All the questions, all hurts, all frustration, all of your crawling on the floor experiences, all your tears, all of your loneliness and isolation times, and all your problems will ceased to exist once YOUR FAITH IS REWARDED not only by a GLIMPSE OF JESUS, but a real hugging, arm in arm walking experience with the one and only Lord of all Jesus Christ.

BE READY!

Revelation 3:12 “Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name.”

Workout for Free

2018-04-12T09:34:00.004-05:00

Hello, It’s been awhile since I have written on my blog.

Spring is here! It’s time to workout 💪🏻 or get healthy this season. Summer is around the corner!

Recently, I had to cut my gym membership since I’m on a financial diet. I found many ways to work out for free or at a discounted rate in the Dallas- Fort Worth, TX area.

I hope 🤞 this information helps you with all your goals this spring. Please leave a comment, thank you! 🤗

*** Click on website to check out more details about these great deals.

I love KickBoxing . It's a great workout! You can sign up for a cheap rate here on this website ..

9 Round. Offers 30 mintue boxing 🥊 fitness classes at $10 per lesson. I signed up for $80 worth of lessons this past winter, here is the Website .

There is a free running club 🏃‍♀️in my neighborhood. We meet Mondays & Wednesdays in Arlington, TX but there are other locations in Dallas. Please check out this Website for more information.

Planet fitness is $10 a month. On rainy days, I use their treadmills but I use my own muscle bands and jump rope to workout. Please check out this Website.

Life Time Fitness. It's a great experience at any location. For a trial run with one visit, see this website.

24 hour - 3 visits for free check out this website.

Gold Gym: FREE MEMBERSHIP TRIAL on this website.

My home gym - with basic equipment: weights, treadmill and jump rope - Free.

Biking 🚴‍♀️ & runnng in my neighborhood- Free.

Volunteering with horses🐎 & helping others. I’m a side walker. A great workout during the spring & summertime. Website

Running at on the track @ my niece’s middle school after school or weekends.

Free workout program at church. I found a church ⛪ where I work out & take health class Saturday mornings.

Camp Gladiator - $29 for 4 weeks in April & May on this website.

Jiu Jitsu clubs usually give one free lesson or a week of lessons but depends on the club.

Free trainer online under the name: Damien Patrick if you are working out with weights. This guy will change your life. YouTube link to check out this website.

UFC gym. Free session with one visit. Check out this website.

Best apps to keep up with your workouts: My Fitness Pal & Fitbit.

Papa Villaneva-99 Years old

2017-03-24T00:34:00.001-05:00

On March 22, 1921, my grandfather was born in Mexico. Papa was born as a premature baby. He was told by his mother he looked like a rat. They did not know he was going to live but he did live after 96 years.

His story on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NMyMco_8Ek4 in Spanish.

My grandfather is living the American dream. My grand father generation is call the, "Greatest Generation," because as one said, " Men and Woman fought not for fame or recognition, but because it was the "right thing to do." My grand father is a man of doing the right thing for his family and also a man of respect.

I was honored as his granddaughter to know my grandfather almost 39 years of my life. I looked to my grandfather as my 2nd dad. I spoke a little Spanish but we communicated to each other somehow. We laughed, smiled, sang,hugged, prayed, sat together in quietness & ate together. We created many memories together for a lifetime. Papa taught all of us to always put family first. To reach out to others, love others, and pray for them. Sharing the Gospel. Worship and look to Jesus. My papa lived the American Dream. In my Papa’s early years, he was motivated to find a better life in the great state of Texas in 1949 with his family. Papa worked hard in the fields of America with his family. Later on in his life he worked in a factory with his family & my grandma. Papa didn’t read really well in Spanish and learned to read the Bible at age of 53. He loved the Lord. Papa retired to be a farmer and a missionary to his local community with my grandma. As a child during my summer visits it was my papa who sang and preached the Bible. At the end of the service papa would pray for many people after church or in his home during the day or night. Many people would look for my papa to pray, including myself. Papa would quote a verse then pray for you. You would feel papa’s prayers through the Lord. When papa lost my grandma in 1997 my papa went to visit all of his family members and traveled all over Mexico. My papa preached & prayed for many people. I found out later papa supported & helped build a church in Reynosa, Mexico. Papa was a very humble man. He impacted us grandchildren to do something great in the Lord, our family’s lives & in our jobs.

¨He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.”

Psalm 91:1 ESV

https://www.bible.com/59/psa.91.1.esv

My papa's life was very interesting before he found the Lord.

One of my papa's favorite mariachi songs is, "One Day at a Time", https://youtu.be/Jqmf_nf6uyg.

Living By Faith

35 Years Young!

2015-09-25T00:58:00.002-05:00

Where did the time go? I was 25 years old, 10 years ago in the month of September. I was 25 years old and thinking of school, and work. When I was 25 years old my life was consumed all about me. Little did I know that things were going to change for me a year later when I watched my father fight colon cancer. Life is not all about me, it's about somebody else. Be strong when someone is weak. Love the Lord when things go wrong in your life.

This past year in my life, I had decided to make some changes in my life and make some major goals for my future.

Health was most important factor in my life. No, I don't need to lose weight, but exercising is on top of my list. Cancer is my fear in my life. I was not being active in my daily life. I purchased Fitbit and notice I had 2,000 steps in my daily walk. Scary! Also, my mother and my younger sister advice me to work out. These ladies push me to better myself and my body. Thanks mom and sis!

Clifford, my sis and I working out @ www.vargasbjj.com/jiu-jitsu.html

Less about social media and focus on volunteering, exercising, catching up at home, watching my favorite shows, hanging with my family and friends. Please forgive me if I miss your birthday, commenting on your vacation, family's pictures, pet's pictures, or your friend's pictures, or your status. I have to a balance to my life. Computers do not rule my life. I choose to live in the real world.

Growing up in the hospitality industry appearance is very important to the public. I found when you exercise all the time less makeup and working less on your hair. This was a huge sacrifice that I was making this year.

Worship and Prayer in traffic. I found the best times you can have with the Lord is in traffic @ 8am. Patience is key during this time. I found myself avoiding accidents and not having a flat tire on busiest highways in my hometown. Thank you, Lord for protecting me!

Lastly, this week, my cousin passed away from cancer. This was my dad's older brother- step daughter, Tracy Crowe Fash. I watched her fight breast cancer. I was not close to my cousin, but I prayed a lot for her. I was believing for a miracle for this young woman. I felt it was a duty as my dad's daughter to prayer for her. I watched Tracy beat cancer 1st time and watch the pain of Tracy fighting for her life 2nd time. Tracy lived her life to fullest with her family, colleagues and with friends in her last days.

As, I turn 35 this month, I leave words from my cousin, https://twitter.com/TracyFash : "I may have a non curable cancer but I can't help feeling so blessed by the wonderful people in my life." #lovelife#needacureforcancer

Psalm 91:4-5(CEV)

“4 He will spread his wings  over you and keep you secure. His faithfulness is like  a shield or a city wall.5 you won’t need to worry  about dangers at night  or arrows during the day.”

Many hugs to my dad's family, Tracy's friends & love ones.

Forget me Not!

2015-06-28T13:31:00.001-05:00

Today my dad would be 61 years old on 06.28.2015. I want to remember my dad with the words he had written on September 08,1999 during his morning devotion. He had written this devotion call,"Forget Me Not." Daniel R.

I hope you are encouraged today.

From his oldest daughter, Isleen R.

Hello Summer!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2014-06-12T02:25:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I have written anything on this blog. Life has kept me busy since February. Yes! I didn't even had time to write all these months until now.

Now, the summer season has arrived. Hello Summer!! The summer season is my favorite time of the year. Last night, I had very interesting dream last night. It had to do with the summer season and fall season. I had walked in a Target store and enjoyed seeing the summer store front with all the colors and designs everywhere. The store had lots of colors around the store that brought life to the store. ( One thing you don't know about me is that I love designing & decorating).

2^nd part of the dream, I had walked in Target it was The Fall season. Summer had ended. All the summer items were on clearance. All colorful summer designs were gone from the store. It was depressing for me. I had walked through all Target aisles looking at all Fall colors in the store. Then, I had woke up from the dream in shock. What was this dream tell me? Will my Fall season be sad for me? I don't know what my summer season is going to be like for me? I don't know what my Fall season be for me? As, I had turned to my Bible the Lord talks about different seasons in our lives.

“Ecclesiastes 3

King James Version (KJV)

3 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.”

I will not go too much in context of this Bible verse. I will say... seasons come and go. We are not in control of our seasons. There are times we don't know what is going to happen next. The real test in your life is how you are going to react in the different seasons. The Lord has shown me to Trust in him in the winter, summer, fall or spring season.

Lastly, I promise, I will share my summer season with you in my pictures.

Enjoy the summer season, Y'ALL! See you soon! :)

Iamisleen

Winter Olympics 2014

2014-02-05T12:18:00.000-06:00

In the celebration of the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia which I wanted to do something special online. I wanted to celebrate some of countries that I love with the small things that I have collected over the years through traveling.

Mexico

South Korea

Japan

England

Israel

China

Accepting Changes

2013-12-28T18:47:00.000-06:00

Everyone will be writing review of their year in 2013 and their goals of 2014 online. I would write about my year but it's already on my blog. Here is a small video that you can check out out my year in review for 2013 by clicking here. My goals for 2014 is something that I will keep in my journal.There is a lot that I would like to accomplish in 2014 but I would like to keep it private. I want change in 2014 in my life.

I will share my dad's writings about three changes that occurs in our lives: Natural, Self Induced (brought on by oneself or itself) & Uncontrollable Changes. This will make you think about you life this past year in 2013 and help you plan your goals for next year in 2014.

My dad, J D Rodriguez wrote this on 01.05.2000****************************************

Writing the year 2000 on our checkbooks, Daylight Savings Time, Graying, Loosing/Making Friends, Loosing Hair, Loosing your figure, Kids growing up, The weather, Your Memory not being the same, Spending & Making Money.

Matthew18:13, “And he said, “ I tell you the truth, unless you Change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Changes comes when we least expect them. Changes come through many ways. Some changes we accept them while others we reject them initially. God put animals on this earth so we could learn much from them. If they could talk, I'm sure we would know more information about ourselves regarding change. There are three type of changes of which includes Nature Change, Self-Induced Changes, and the Uncontrollable Changes. We mostly accept the Natural and the Self-Induced Changes except when there is a conflict with other human relationships. The final kind of change, which is the Uncontrollable, become a decision we have to make whether we accept the or reject them.

Natural Changes

Live Right ( Everyone accept a good man)

Prov. 16:7 “ When a man's way are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.

Self-Induced Changes

All seem to be lifestyle inflicted of which can be bad or good:

Positive: Setting positive goals, exercising, good diet, making each day count, living to the server instead of serving to live, keeping positive NO MATTER WHAT, & knowing your place with God/family/friends/and habits

Negative: Gambling, drinking (too much of drinking) hating, mindless music, cursing, living fast, spending trying to keep up with the Jone's, not loving to love but living to putting trust on possessions ( material) instead of God and loved ones, treating people as things instead of living breathing beings, living an immortal lifestyle ( No).

UNCONTROLLABLE CHANGES:

ILLNESS, AGING, DEATH, TAXES, I'm sure we can mention others like visiting the MOTHER IN LAW (my dad loved his Mother in Law, Maria) unwanted Relatives, hurtful friends like BILLS, Etc. But Seriously, I was young and had a great job in Sales when I was called into my managers office. My wife was 8 months pregnant (with me) and I got laid off. After laying around feeling sorry myself, it took courage to find another job because of my PRIDE/ my expectations/my success story/my routine had been ripped apart. That experience was a turning point in my life. It taught me well to always prepare for the unexpected. (my dad was laid off several times in his career.)

Things we can learn from animals regarding changes:

They're born without being cuddled and wrapped in a blanket or a nice soft pillow to rest on. ( My dog Gigi ( Toy Poodle), always sat on a nice pillow on the family couch)
Many Species have to do their own work in their birth instead of the mother pushing them out.
Their weaning period from their mothers can be instantly, days or just a few months.
No one knows when a sparrow dies except God and their parents.
Animals don't call their parents or their siblings on Holidays.
Sometimes it's hard to tell when they're sad, hurting, cold or even dying.

A mind set that can help you with unwanted changes:

Realize change do not have to ask you for permission to come. They come regardless.
You can not stop change. YOU ARE NOT IN CHARGE BUT Change is in charge.
It's how you direct the change to flow where you want it to flow.
Do not just see, hear,feel, taste change but ask yourself, “ Why Am I am so special that I can not accept this change?”
Lastly, the very first step in knowing how to handle change is knowing you have change standing right in from of you!

Must Have Make Up for All Holiday Parties

2013-11-27T09:50:00.000-06:00

Every girl needs to look good for all the holiday parties this year. I have researched from drug store to high end stores for the best make up. I found that if you spend a little money on a few items then your make up is flawless for the holiday parties. I'm not a make up artist but I have learned to find the best products. Also, I have asked a few make up artists for advice. I am giving away some of my secrets to all lovely ladies! Enjoy!

Before your big party prepare your face with these products weeks in advance. I had really bad adult acne weeks ago.I had called my cousin who is a make up artist to advise me really good products at Origins since I couldn’t see the dermatologist. I have to say these products actually worked for me! I was shy taking pictures at my cousin's wedding in the beginning of November. I was not shy taking pictures at a big event in Dallas last weekend.

See the difference:

Mom & I

After, I had used the products:

These are the products that I had used:

You need a good moisture and a primer:

You need good tools to apply you make up: Try Sephora make up brushes. The cost is about $60 but it's worth it. You need eye liner brush,concealer brush, lip liner brush, blush brush and other brushes to apply your make up.

Clinique Superblanced Make Up. This foundation sops up skin with Biopol, a milk-derived protein. “ My face stayed matte until the evening.,” said one tester. It contain chamomile extract to help reduce redness. I love this product. I have very sensitive skin and this is the best foundation for your face. This cost is about $23 each bottle. Best foundation to use at holiday parties.

Cheapest mascara you find under $10! Use water proof mascara! This is the best mascara for your $$$!

Best power you will ever spend! Loose Shimmer power:

Best Eyebrow kit and very inexpensive!! You find this eye brow kit at Target or your local drug store. I have seen eyebrow kits that cost more that $60. This eye brow kit is less than $10. Tip: Make sure you find someone who can wax or threading your eyebrows before the big event:

Excellent lip stick and moisture for your lips that will last for hours. Trust me your lip stick will last more than 24 hours!

My favorite eye liner:

Don't forgot to curl your eye lashes.Tip:Use eye lashes curler under the blow dryer for 1 minute before curling your eyelashes.

This eye lashes curler is from Revlon

This is best concealer to use under your eyes. I used this every day. I have used other concealers in the past but this is the best product for your $$$. I have a very busy schedule and you can't tell that I have tired looking eyes.

Secret Camouflage Concealer

Undercover pot concealer

A must have blush product for all the holiday parties There are 4 different blushes that will last all night long. When you take a close up picture you blush is flawless. I have used this product for years. I haven't found another blush product like this product.Pink Mosaic is called.

Eye shadow kit to have in your purse. I am very simple when it comes to eye shadow. You can find this eye shadow kit at Victoria Secrets for about $18.

Thanksgiving & Christmas 2013

2013-11-25T03:53:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving is this week. Black Friday is the best deals of the year. What I will be doing this Black Friday is working instead of shopping. Black Friday is one events of the year we wait for the good deals. For me Black Friday is just another day. When I was younger, I would be that crazy person waking up 5am. I will be waking 6am getting to work. I have become a person who is willing to skip the Black Friday events. When my father passed away, Thanksgiving & Christmas was not the same for all of us. It's been hard enough to get my mom to get the tree up last year but she got the tree up. The old tree is gone and a new Christmas tree is up now in our family home.

Last year, we wrote a letter to each family member of how thankful we were for each other. My dad started this tradition many years ago. Presents are for the kiddos and less of us. This year, we are starting a family tradition by giving one gift to each adult family member. Christmas has become a marketing tool for America. Just turn on your TV. You will see every commercial during prime time talking about Christmas or open up your mail box with a bunch of Christmas ads. It's hard enough to see families who are struggling this year. There are others who are trying to save for next year with our health insurance, 401k, retirement, a new beginning in 2014, trying to survive for the next pay check or looking for a job. It's hard to see Christmas for a celebration with finding that perfect gift for your love one. I understand. I have been committed to help others especially during this time. If it's a Dollar Store gift, volunteer event, toy drive then I'm there in my free time. Material is less what I desire for myself and thinking of those who can't afford gifts for their child. What would Jesus do when I think to myself?

Christmas is the celebration of Jesus. When I think of Christmas as kid which I would think of toys. I also think of my dad opening the Bible and reading of birth of Christ to us. My dad taught us Thanksgiving & Christmas is celebration of family but above all Jesus.

Three years later...

2013-09-09T01:48:00.001-05:00

I was being interviewed by a local organization this past summer. One of the questions the interviewer asked me, “ How did you cope with the loss of you father from colon cancer 2 years ago?” I had to think very deeply for a second because I had almost cried before I answered the question.

I had told the interviewer, “I had saw a counselor at school, I had my family around me, I did not drink any alcohol beverages during that period of time and Lord was my strength."

Three years of missing my father. I grew up from a child who was at age of 30 years old to a strong woman who feels like she is 80 years old inside at the age of 32.

I was looking back at a picture of me in the hospital. My hair was falling out. I didn't do my hair for many weeks. I didn't sleep or eat very well. I had wore the same clothes for days while in the hospital with my dad. I was in deep depression. Each night, I had held my father's hand. I didn't want to let go my daddy's hand. I want to hold my dad's hand forever. I finally had to let go my daddy's hand when he passed away on September 14, 2011.

Two weeks ago, I had taken a picture of me in downtown Austin.The Lord is my strength for two years. It was a very difficult road to battle depression in my grieving seasons. Prayer and talking to the Lord was my only hope. There were times when I felt alone. I didn't know who to talk to during those times. I would turn up Kari Jobe's song and cried to the Father in Heaven in my car. The Lord was my salvation. Ladies, I didn't turn to my guy for a hug during those painful times. I was alone and I had to battle my depression.

Today, I am strong. My past experience was a battle to make me a stronger woman in everything I do. Don't get me wrong but I had sad moments but I continued to live my life. I lived my life to be there for my family and others. If you have a family member who is dealing with cancer or have passed away, please look to the Lord. Your strength is the Lord.

Psalms 23

“1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever”

In Memory of Kidd Kraddick & Tom Dooley

2013-07-29T11:53:00.001-05:00

There are two DJs in my life that I enjoyed listening to Tom Dooley & Kid Kraddick. These DJs reminded me a little of my father, Dan. When I moved away for the first time from my childhood home, Tom Dooley would encouraged me on the radio with the Word in 2008 each day. I did my best to be independent & not call my dad every morning.

Sometimes, I would listen to Tom Dooley on ITunes while I worked on my studies. Tom Dooley had passed away on November 9, 2010 with brain cancer. I remembered telling my dad our favorite DJ who passed away. Dad reacted with sadness.Tom Dooley was part of my life & my dad's life each day.

1^st Annual Tom Dooley's Memorial Gold Tournament on September 14, 2013. I will volunteer for the event in memorial of my dad, Dan.

http://www.mastermedia.org/mm/eventInfo

I would listened to Kidd Kraddick each morning to laugh. There were times I didn't agreed with Kidd but I accepted him as he was on the radio. He made me laugh while I was grieving for my dad last year. There would be times I would turn off the radio because I didn't agree with Kidd on certain topics or I couldn't stand what they were talking about that morning but I always came back to listen to Kidd's show.

I was driving to work last Monday, I heard Kidd do a segment of the show call Dying Dead Bed Confession. It was hard to listen to this part of the show. I heard Kidd Kraddick making fun of Kellie at the end of segment of the show. It's funny but difficult to listen. It's surreal to hear Kidd passed away after doing that radio segment of the show last Monday.

http://www.dallasnews.com/entertainment/headlines/20130728-days-before-his-death-kidd-kraddick-spoke-about-deathbed-confessions-i-ve-got-a-few-minutes-to-live.ece

What do the listeners do now? Go somewhere else to listen another family morning crew in morning? All of us come from different backgrounds but I know one thing we have common is Kidd Kraddick & the morning crew.

To listen Kidd Kraddick online http://www.kiddnation.com/

1^st concert will be held on August 15, 2013 with the Jonas Brothers at House of Blues for the terminal ill kiddos. Come and support the kiddos!

http://www.kiddskids.com/ Kidd Kraddick's foundation

Remember life is short but our days are numbered. We all need to leave our legacy like these great DJs. Do something great with your life. Focus on the helping the hurting. Don't waste your time hating on others or hurting folks with your negative words. Do something positive like Kidd & Tom Dooley as they did with their lives. Remember to look up & focus our hearts on the Father above, Jesus. All of us will be called home one day.

Summer of 2013

2013-07-21T13:11:00.001-05:00

I had promised myself this summer would be different for me. I would visit the people that I love.

Memorial day was staying at home trip with my family. We had celebrate Memorial Day with my nieces and Clifford. We had the best time at Joe Pool Lake.

I had started off to go to a Hot Rod show in Arkansas with my guy, Clifford. There were so many cars to love at this car show.

Two weeks after the car show. I had decided to go on a road trip with my mom to South Texas. We were enjoying San Antonio for the first time as mother and daughter. We made some good memories!

Then it was time to visit papa and the farm during the week of Father's Day. I haven't been to my grandfather's farm about 2 years. It was a very restful time with my grandfather and his family. One thing that touched me during that trip is praying for my grandfather on Father's Day. I was in tears and so was my 92 year old grandfather. I was praying and thanking the Lord for my papa. The Lord revealed to me that my grandfather was a father to the fatherless.

A few weeks later, I was off to another road to a trip to Abilene to visit my friend. I haven't been to Abilene but it was the best trip to a small town with a lot of relaxing moments.

One month to go before summer is over. I still have at least one or two trips left to travel. I will included them later in this blog.

Also, this summer, I am making major changes in my life with money and focus on my retirement. I have been watching the people around make changes in their lives. It is motivating me to step in that area. I am not getting young any time soon. Going shopping is not fun as it used to be for me. I am starting to see that saving and building my retirement right now is important. More to come in my blog about this subject.

The fall season will bring a new season for me. See you online after August, 2013.

Iamisleen

Haunted by the word cancer

2013-05-14T13:15:00.000-05:00

Angelina Jolie's story came out on May 14, 2013 of her having double mastectomy. I can relate to Angelina Jolie. She is 37 years old and I am 32 years old. Angelina lost her mom at the age of 56. I had lost my dad at the age of 57 to colon cancer. She had lost her mom a few years ago. I had lost my dad to cancer 2 years ago. I was thinking what if cancer happens to me. I'm not claiming cancer at all. It's hard to think when you have a love one who had passed away from cancer. All the doctor visits you went with your love one. You had to watch all the chemo your love one went through. It is pain in our hearts.

You would say to yourself, “NO!” I don't want cancer to happen to me. I don't want to live in fear but it is hard to thinking about it. I had some issues in my body recently. I will not go in detail of my issue. This is a private matter for me. This issue wouldn't stop for about a month. I was worried about this issue in my body. Here I am reading Web MD and many online articles of what the cause of this issue in my body each night. One article stated to consult with your doctor since this issue can cause cancer. I was freaking out after reading the article online. I didn't want to tell my mom or my sister. We went through enough crap with my dad. So, I had decided to speak to my boyfriend about this issue in my body. My boyfriend said, “Go to the doctor's office tomorrow.” I did. My doctor had taken a few tests to see what the cause of this issue in my body is. She had looked at me and said, “I don't see anything wrong.” One thing she said to me, “You are healthy young person.” Her words brought life to me. The doctor told me if this issue does not stop please go to another doctor’s office. My doctor handed me business card. After I left her office, I was asking the Lord to heal. I was crying inside and outside. I didn't want to do extra blood work. I was scared for the outcome if I did extra blood work. A week later, everything was normal in body. I said Amen to myself!!! 

Fear of not living. We can say I'm ready to go to Heaven. This is what my dad said when he was normal. When he had cancer he didn't want to die. He didn't want to leave his family that he loved soooo much. My dad knew in his heart that he couldn't change the course of his life. I'm oldest daughter to be involved with cancer awareness. This week, I have decided to become involve in Be The Match at http://m.marrow.org/. I am going to give myself to be a match for patients with leukemia or other forms of cancer. I'm taking the step to help others.

Also, Angelina Jolie's story makes me wonder if I need to do blood work to see if I will get cancer. I'm considering it. Maybe, in my next doctor visit this coming August. I have to fight the rest of my life of this ugly word call cancer mentality.

Iamisleen 

Angelina Jolie's Story

We often speak of “Mommy’s mommy,” and I find myself trying to explain the illness that took her away from us. They have asked if the same could happen to me. I have always told them not to worry, but the truth is I carry a “faulty” gene, BRCA1, which sharply increases my risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

My doctors estimated that I had an 87 percent risk of breast cancer and a 50 percent risk of ovarian cancer, although the risk is different in the case of each woman.

Only a fraction of breast cancers result from an inherited gene mutation. Those with a defect in BRCA1 have a 65 percent risk of getting it, on average.

Once I knew that this was my reality, I decided to be proactive and to minimize the risk as much I could. I made a decision to have a preventive double mastectomy. I started with the breasts, as my risk of breast cancer is higher than my risk of ovarian cancer, and the surgery is more complex.

On April 27, I finished the three months of medical procedures that the mastectomies involved. During that time I have been able to keep this private and to carry on with my work.

But I am writing about it now because I hope that other women can benefit from my experience. Cancer is still a word that strikes fear into people’s hearts, producing a deep sense of powerlessness. But today it is possible to find out through a blood test whether you are highly susceptible to breast and ovarian cancer, and then take action.

My own process began on Feb. 2 with a procedure known as a “nipple delay,” which rules out disease in the breast ducts behind the nipple and draws extra blood flow to the area. This causes some pain and a lot of bruising, but it increases the chance of saving the nipple.

Two weeks later I had the major surgery, where the breast tissue is removed and temporary fillers are put in place. The operation can take eight hours. You wake up with drain tubes and expanders in your breasts. It does feel like a scene out of a science-fiction film. But days after surgery you can be back to a normal life.

Nine weeks later, the final surgery is completed with the reconstruction of the breasts with an implant. There have been many advances in this procedure in the last few years, and the results can be beautiful.

I wanted to write this to tell other women that the decision to have a mastectomy was not easy. But it is one I am very happy that I made. My chances of developing breast cancer have dropped from 87 percent to under 5 percent. I can tell my children that they don’t need to fear they will lose me to breast cancer.

It is reassuring that they see nothing that makes them uncomfortable. They can see my small scars and that’s it. Everything else is just Mommy, the same as she always was. And they know that I love them and will do anything to be with them as long as I can. On a personal note, I do not feel any less of a woman. I feel empowered that I made a strong choice that in no way diminishes my femininity.

I am fortunate to have a partner, Brad Pitt, who is so loving and supportive. So to anyone who has a wife or girlfriend going through this, know that you are a very important part of the transition. Brad was at the Pink Lotus Breast Center, where I was treated, for every minute of the surgeries. We managed to find moments to laugh together. We knew this was the right thing to do for our family and that it would bring us closer. And it has.

For any woman reading this, I hope it helps you to know you have options. I want to encourage every woman, especially if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, to seek out the information and medical experts who can help you through this aspect of your life, and to make your own informed choices.

I acknowledge that there are many wonderful holistic doctors working on alternatives to surgery. My own regimen will be posted in due course on the Web site of the Pink Lotus Breast Center. I hope that this will be helpful to other women.

Breast cancer alone kills some 458,000 people each year, according to the World Health Organization, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. It has got to be a priority to ensure that more women can access gene testing and lifesaving preventive treatment, whatever their means and background, wherever they live. The cost of testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2, at more than $3,000 in the United States, remains an obstacle for many women.

I choose not to keep my story private because there are many women who do not know that they might be living under the shadow of cancer. It is my hope that they, too, will be able to get gene tested, and that if they have a high risk they, too, will know that they have strong options.

Life comes with many challenges. The ones that should not scare us are the ones we can take on and take control of.

She didn't give up in life

2013-05-08T12:55:00.002-05:00

As children we talk about our parents to others. When I talk to people about my mom which I tell them she works for huge auto industry company at the age of 57. She is a single lady. She likes to shop like me and do her hair. Then, I show my colleagues or my friends my mom's picture & me. One colleague looked at me with confusion. She didn't want to pick out the wrong lady in the picture. I told her it was the lady on the far right. She said to me, “ Is that your mom?” I told her yes! My mom is not a old lady with gray hair sitting around with her rocking chair. My mom is a mover and shaker. My mom did not give up in life when the storms came through. My mom went through a lot of hell when she lost her husband. My dad was her soulmate. When I see my mom alone. I just want to hug her or go watch a movie with her. I hate to see my mom alone. My mom met my dad when she was 16 years old. My parents had issues in their marriage but they continued their love story like the Simpsons. My mom was like Marge Simpson and dad was like Homer Simpson. My dad liked the sweet foods. Dad made crazy mistakes. Mom was like Marge trying to save the family from the silly mistakes Homer made.

Then, Homer Simpson which was my dad passed away. Can you imagine what the show would be like without Homer Simpson? The show would be cancelled. The show was not cancelled in our real life.

Well, the blue hair lady continued her life with her children. I'm Lisa Simpson the oldest. My brother Mark is Bart Simpson. Sarah is Maggie, the baby. The blue hair lady is not crying her eyes out or depressed at home without Homer Simpson. She is strong and living the life. The blue hair lady just went to Florida with Selma ( her best sister in law- Mona). Selma is a pretty woman in real life.

So this blue hair lady continues to help her coworkers at work. She puts parties together during lunch times. The blue hair lady talks to her 91 year old father, Grandpa Abraham ( Papa). The blue hair lady babysitting her grand children. The blue hair lady dresses in her best and goes to church. The blue hair lady sometimes she misses being next to her Homer Simpson in church. The blue hair lady says she is trusting in the Lord. The blue hair lady is making major decisions in the next few years of her life.The Blue hair lady didn't give up with her dreams. The blue hair lady is still moving and loving her family each day. This blue hair lady is one amazing mama to me and my family. We love this blue hair lady waited a minute she has brown hair. My mom is not Marge Simpson. Her name is Emily. She loves red roses. This brown hair lady is my mom. Happy Mother's Day!

Iamisleen

My Heart is in his Hands

2013-03-17T21:37:00.001-05:00

Late Friday night my niece had cried to me that she couldn't fall asleep. My niece was nervous that if she didn't fall asleep then she would not focus on her studies Saturday morning at her tutoring center. I asked my niece if she wanted milk or water which she had shaken her head "no". The only solution which I could help my 9 year old niece is to pray for her. I had put my hands on her head and asked The Lord to give her peace while she slept. 2 minutes later my niece was sound asleep. I had thanked The Lord for this little miracle for my niece. Being a part time parent to my niece is important to me. It is important to teach her having a relationship with The Lord. Reading his word or sing a worship song on Pandora. Or getting a reminder on her iPhone to read her Bible in her quiet time. Or running to church when I can to hear the word from the preacher.

All my life my dad taught me to find The Lord. Having a relationship with The Lord didn't come official until I was 16 years old which was 17 years ago today. I remembered one spring morning at the church retreat The Lord had spoken into my heart ask him into my life. Life wasn't the same for me after that day.

Life has ups & downs. The Lord has been my only hope in my life. When I was hurting which I would call my earthly dad to pray for me like my niece. I don't have my earthly dad to pray for me in my life now. My earthly dad is in heaven. Now, I have The Lord to guide my steps especially if I'm part time parent to my niece.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. "(Proverbs 3:5 KJV)