www.breatheagainmagazine.com

NEW BLOG ADDRESS

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 14:53:00 +0000

WE HAVE MOVED OUR BLOG

PLEASE VISIT OUR NEW BLOG ADDRESS

http://www.breatheagainmagazine.com/wordpress/

GED Graduate Killed — Gone too Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:58:00 +0000

Norfolk police speak about standoff that killed teen

Norfolk police speak about standoff that killed teen
Filed by Katie Collett

WAVY-TV

updated 3:35 a.m. ET, Thurs., Aug. 14, 2008

NORFOLK (Va.)-- Norfolk Police spoke to WAVY.com about a standoff that left a 17-year-old dead. It happened on Maltby Avenue in Norfolk, Sunday. After several hours of negotiations and being barricaded inside her home, police shot and killed Tameika Jordan.

Tameika Jordan turned 17 in January. Her mother Catrina says her daughter just got her GED and planned to attend TCC in the fall. However, late Saturday night something went wrong.

"The daughter, threatening to kill her mother, that's the call that was made to 911," says Norfolk Public Information Officer Chris Amos.

Amos says police were told Jordan had a gun. The teen barricaded herself in her Maltby Avenue apartment and moments later Norfolk's Special Operations Team surrounded the Barraud Park neighborhood home.

"They're highly trained, extremely professional, show tremendous restraint. They have handled dozens and dozens and dozens of calls like this that all have ended peacefully," says Amos.

Amos says for about seven hours, negotiators tried to talk Jordan into surrendering. Catrina contends her daughter was ready to walk out when officers burst through and shot Jordan. Police say that's not the case.

"Shots were definitely fired from inside the apartment."

Amos says past tragedies have taught police when a gun is fired, action needs to be taken.

"Columbine showed us that the idea of setting up a perimeter and simply waiting while shots are being fired inside a building, unacceptable."

Police say Jordan aimed a gun at officers when they entered and they were forced to fire. It was a devastating tragedy, Amos says they wanted to avoid.

"We were going back maybe to the early 80s, maybe late 70s, the last time a team entered a situation like this and they were forced to take a life."

The shooting is still under investigation. In the meantime, Jordan's family is planning her funeral.

Participant in GED Graduation Ceremony Shot and Killed

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:56:00 +0000

Tomorrow is NOT promised… and, honestly, tonight is not promised either.

I don’t want this to be a doom and gloom message, but I’d really like for you to hear my heart. In the past few weeks I’ve personally been affected by five deaths. These are people I’ve been connected to in one way or another.

We’re taught to celebrate death because that person is going on to be with Jesus, but there is a grief process. Ecclesiastes says there is a time for everything… a time to laugh and a time to cry.

When we’re around someone every day and then they vanish from our lives to never be seen again on this earth, it hurts. Your heart hurts; it’s heavy. We remember the good times and cherish all the wonderful memories - and we have the right to grieve. I understand we need to be strong, but please take the time to deal with your pain. It’s okay to cry.

This past weekend one of the students who participated in our First Annual “Breathe Again Magazine” GED Graduation Ceremony was shot and killed. She was only 17 years old. She was just a baby. My heart goes out to her family. Please pray for them.

Cherish each day God gives you. You don’t know if it will be your last. Make the most of it. Live your dream…start today!

Don’t waste another day. You can’t get it back.

No Support!

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:07:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Have you ever said," the people around me don't appreciate me."

It seems like the people we work the hardest for show little or no appreciation for what you do.

Can you relate?

If so, you are not alone, I have said those same words on more than a few occasions. It seems as if the more you do, the less people care.

I had to learn a very valuable lesson recently.

Most of my ideas are "the best ideas in the world", so I think.
Everyone should get on board, show support and just change the world. After all, it's the "right" thing to do.

NOT!

My pastor once told me, "Everyone is not going to believe in your dream or want to help with your dream."

That statement is so true. After all, it is my dream. I've had to learn that the hard way. The people you think will jump on board and help will most likely NOT be the ones that will assist you. Some don't provide ANY support and some start off with you, but slowly fade away and lose interest. Don't get mad, accept it for what it is and move on. And you definately don't want anyone helping you that doesn't believe in your vision - they will just hinder you.

The majority of the support will come from outsiders. People not in your inner circle. Those you don't even know.

My Lesson

If you don't initially receive the support you need, go to THE source and ask for support. He won't return your call, serve on your committee, nor return any of your emails. But he WILL answer your prayers and send you Godly counsel and wisdom.

Go to THE source, which is God and he will send you THE SUPPORT you need. He did it for me.

Blessings,

Nicole

Newsletter Sponsor

This weeks newsletter is sponsored by JERPAT Virtual Assistants & Web Designs, your affordable virtual business and web solutions. www.professionaladminteam.com

Friendz Network News

TCE Network Event

The July TCE Network meeting is an invitation only taping of TCE & Friends Presents...

"The Career, Life & Business Show" Talk Show

If you are a TCE TV 1000 Partner or TCE Network Member and want to be in our audience, contact charley@thecareerengineers.com to register for a seat.

For more information, go to TCENetwork.eventbrite.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Phoebe Women Network Coffee Chat
Friday, August 1, 2008
Janaf Panera Bread
8:00 am - 10:00am
Come Network and Chat with Enterprising and Amazing Women
FREE to all
RSVP to D. Yvonne Rivers
phoebewomen757@aol.com
www.PhoebeWomen.com
757-481-8009
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nonprofit Boot Camp
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Learn how to start, manage, market and write grants for a nonprofit.
Contact D. Yvonne Rivers
nonprofitboot@aol.com
www.nonprofitboot.com
757.481.8009

News You Can Use

Check out our news section on BAM.

Here are just a few of the stories you will find on our news page.

Adultery on the Rise in the Church
Who Will They Serve
Basketball Star Buys Mother a Church

So make sure you visit our news page to finish the stories and see what is going on around the world.

What in the World

Fish pedicures: Carp rid human feet of scaly skin

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) - Ready for the latest in spa pampering? Prepare to dunk your tootsies in a tank of water and let tiny carp nibble away.

Fish pedicures are creating something of a splash in the D.C. area, where a northern Virginia spa has been offering them for the past four months. John Ho, who runs the Yvonne Hair and Nails salon with his wife, Yvonne Le, said 5,000 people have taken the plunge so far.

"This is a good treatment for everyone who likes to have nice feet," Ho said.

Finish the story here.

2nd Annual African American Family Reunion

Hamption 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family...Many Roots, One Tree

WHERE: Hampton Roads Convention Center
WHEN: Saturday, July 26, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 4 pm

For more information click here.

The Chocolate Pages Show

Sistahs Embracing the Elevation

Women Predestined for Purpose Revival

Will the Women of God Please Stand Up

Sparkplug U

Pick of the week

Moms will truly appreciate this!

Child Gets Stuck in Stuffed Animal Vending Machine...

Watch this must see video here.

Nicole on the move!

July 26 - Hampton 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family

Save The Date!

July 26 - 2nd Annual African American Family Reunion

July 26 - TCE Network Meeting

August 1 - Phoebe Women Network Coffee Chat

August 6 - Ann Holton & Tim Kaine present...Michelle Obama

Summer Clearance Special

Sparkplug U

After the Affair

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:03:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

After the Affair on BAM! The Radio Show

After reading my testimony most people ask the following questions:

How did you forgive him?

Why did you forgive him?

Are you scared he will do it again?

But the most obvious question.

WHY DID HE CHEAT?

Starting this month my husband & I will tackle those very questions, as well as take questions from readers. After The Affair will be a monthly segment on BAM! The Radio Show where Jerry will join me to discuss how we survived the affair and how we became friends again.

Topics include:

How did you deal with the baby from the affair? Was it hard?

How did you rebuild the trust?

How do you deal with the child support? Are you bitter?

Why Communication is so important?

Why do you tell all your business?

Each month we will tackle some very tough questions in a segment entitled After The Affair with Jerry & Nicole Cleveland...on BAM! The Radio Show.

Our premiere show is here.
You don't want to miss this. Share it with a friend.

Blessings,

Nicole

Newsletter Sponsor

This weeks newsletter is sponsored by JERPAT Virtual Assistants & Web Designs, your affordable virtual business and web solutions. www.professionaladminteam.com

Friendz Network News

Congratulations to Cynthia Tyler on the purchase of her new home. You Go Girl!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TCE Network Event

The July TCE Network meeting is an invitation only taping of TCE & Friends Presents...

"The Career, Life & Business Show" Talk Show

If you are a TCE TV 1000 Partner or TCE Network Member and want to be in our audience, contact charley@thecareerengineers.com to register for a seat.

For more information, go to TCENetwork.eventbrite.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Yoga on the Beach

WHEN: Saturday, July 19, 2008
TIME: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Phoebe Beach House
1240 W Oceanview Ave
Norfolk VA 23503

For more information, please click here.

News You Can Use

In today´s instant approval world, it is essential for consumers to know where their credit stands... and what it means.

You can get your own free credit report here.

If you have questions about the three credit reports you get, you'll need to contact them directly. Listed below are the three agencies.

www.Experian.com
www.Equifax.com
www.Transunion.com

Protect yourself today. Order your free credit report now!

Click here for all the details.

Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

2nd Annual African American Family Reunion

Hamption 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family...Many Roots, One Tree

WHERE: Hampton Roads Convention Center
WHEN: Saturday, July 26, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 4 pm

For more information click here.

WBO July Expo

Welcome to our online WBO July Expo

Thursday, July 17 - Saturday July 19, 2008
Thursday & Friday 7:30am-6pm PST/10:30am- 9pm EST
Saturday 7:30am-2:30pm PST/10:30am-5:30pm EST

www.womenbizowners.org/july/

Registration for the July Expo is NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN!!

· THREE DAY event featuring both vendors and speakers.
· Opportunity to show off your products
· Offer presentations for services also
· Special pricing for Star & Premier Members Discounts for a combined vendor/sponsor package!*

Pick of the week

If God Say do it - than you do it!

My kids favorite past time is to "have church".

My pick this week are my girls "havin church".

We all can learn something from this clip.

Hope you enjoy!

Click here to watch the clip.

Nicole on the move!

July 26 - Hampton 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family

Save The Date!

July 17-19 - WBO July Expo

July 19 - Yoga on the Beach

July 26 - Hampton African American Family Reunion

Aug 29-30 - Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

Nov 21-23 - Weekend to Remember

Summer Clearance Special

"He Didn't Take the Trash Out"

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:02:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

A few months ago I was honored to be able to visit the Holocaust Museum in DC. It was an unexplainable experience.

I'm sure you are wondering what that has to do with someone not taking the trash out. I listen to people complain about the dumbest things, things that really don't matter compared to what others have had to endure or witness. Walking around the different exhibits and watching the videos of what happened in those concentration camps tore me up; I couldn't stop crying. To see the naked women (they were given no clothes) holding babies awaiting their turn to be executed made me nauseus.

Senseless killings of human beings...so much hate. Young, old, short and fat - the killers didn't discriminate. Did you know they even took all mentally ill people and executed them, just because they were "different"? That was called genocide.

Please take a moment or, better yet, make a moment and visit the Holocaust Museum website: www.ushmm.org

We all should broaden our understanding. Learn about another culture. We live in a world with a variety of races, religions, colors and cultures. The more we know, the more we grow.

I learned so much that day in Holocaust Museum. I plan on taking a day trip with my 10 year old to the museum very soon.

Do me a favor. Please be thankful and content in whatever state you find yourself. I'm not saying be satisfied; just complain a bit less. The trash will get to where it needs to be with gentle reminders. It's really not that serious.

Blessings,

Nicole

Newsletter Sponsor

This weeks newsletter is sponsored by JERPAT Virtual Assistants & Web Designs, your affordable virtual business and web solutions. www.professionaladminteam.com

Friendz Network News

Friendz Network member Jan House is recognized as Woman of the Year by NCNW.

You Go Ms. Jan! Rejoice with Jan!

www.njournalg.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Welcome New Friendz Network Members

Cynthia Tyler with The Book Group Network

Paulette Braithwaite with Simply Unique

Dr Sylvia Christian with Woman 2 Woman Coaching

Sharvette Mitchell with Mitchell Productions

Dr Yvonne Rivers with Phoebe Women Network

Linda Pringle-Evans with Journey to Wholeness

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Yoga on the Beach

WHEN: Saturday, July 19, 2008
TIME: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Phoebe Beach House
1240 W Oceanview Ave
Norfolk VA 23503

For more information, please click here.

News You Can Use

Starting July 1, renewing your motor-vehicle registration at one of Virginia's 74 Department of Motor Vehicles offices is going to cost you more than a wait.

Try another $5.

The increase, which the General Assembly approved this year in Senate Bill 116, is part of an effort to shift many routine DMV customer services to the phone or Internet.

Click here for all the details.

Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

2nd Annual African American Family Reunion

Hamption 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family...Many Roots, One Tree

WHERE: Hampton Rds Convention Center
WHEN: Saturday, July 26, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 4 pm

For more information click here

How Can I Help?

Join the NAACP Virginia Beach Youth Council for their 1st Fundraiser

It's A Car Wash!!!

WHEN: Saturday, July 12, 2008
WHERE: 868 North Newtown Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
TIME: 10 am - 2 pm

For more info on the NAACP Youth Council
email vbnaacpyouth@gmail.com

Help support these youth on the move and bring your car. Tell a Friend!

Pick of the week

Listen to this interview with Tamela Mann (From Meet The Brown's & Tyler Perry's plays).

Friendz Network Member Sharvette Mitchell interviews Tamela Mann & our very own Friendz network member Rebekah Pierce, Editor In Chief of Average Girl Magazine & author of "Sex, Lies & Shoeboxes".

Listen to the interview here.

Nicole on the move!

July 26 - Hampton 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family

Save The Date!

July 19 - Yoga on the Beach

July 26 - Hampton African American Family Reunion

Aug 29-30 - Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

Nov 21-23 - Weekend to Remember

Summer Clearance Special

You Are Invited

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:49:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Have you asked yourself these questions?

"Who am I?"

"What do others think of me?"

"What am I supposed to be doing?"

"Am I wasting my time?"

Join Min. Nicole Cleveland & Elder Lisa Bynum as they tackle those questions on Saturday June 28th at the Springhill Suites Marriott in Norfolk, Virginia.

As women ,we go through so much and still are able to take care of our family, homes, work, communities and churches. We carry that "heavy" load without anyone knowing how "heavy" the load really is.....

We grin and smile but inside we are crying...slowing dying...screaming for help

Join us for a morning of " transparency". Tackling issues of abandonment, molestation, physical, mental & sexual abuse...

Can we be real? No judging allowed!

For more information visit www.CrownOfLifeMinistries.net or call 757-576- 2279.

Hope to see you there!

Blessings,

Nicole

Your Wife and Kids Miss You

We can't believe it's been over four years since you were snatched from our lives.

What happened?

The doctor diagnosed you with a heart condition. He said you had five more years. You were gone in just 12 months.

Click here to finish the story.

Love Letters

Love Bug,

I don't even know how to begin expressing to you everything that you mean to me.

You are my best friend.
You truly are my best friend. At the end of the day, I look forward to sharing with you the little things that anyone else would find meaningless, but you listen to with such rapture, like it si the most important thing in the world. I love giggling with you over something someone says, or does. With one look, I know that you are thinking the same thing I am, without words ever having to be expressed.

Finish the letter here.

Books, Music, Movies and so much more...

Is your marriage in jeopardy or have you fallen out of love with your spouse? Maybe it seems that your spouse does not do the same things he/she did as when you dated. Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

Finish our book review here.

Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

Living Life to the Fullest Conference

Readers Comments

Dear Nicole,

I love your magazine. Tawana's story was very uplifting. She is a tower of strength. She made me realize the little things we complain about are just stupid. Thanks for sharing her story.

- A Very Faithful Reader

Nicole on the move!

June 28 - Living Life to the Fullest Conference

July 26 - Hampton 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family

Save The Date!

June 28 - TCE Networking Event

June 28 - Living Life to the Fullest

July 6 - Dedicatory Service

July 26 - Hampton African American Family Reunion

Aug 29-30 - Sistah's Embracing the Elevation

Nov 21-23 - Weekend to Remember

Summer Clearance Special

Sheryl Brady, Hulk Hogan, Juanita Bynum & Kirk Franklin

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:27:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

What do these people have in common?

It's MySpace!!

There are so many good people who have good intentions for their MySpace profiles.

At first I was against MySpace; I thought it was the devil. But I have been delivered and now understand that it's just like a gun - it's not the gun that's dangerous, it's the people using it that make it dangerous.

A few months ago I conducted an awesome interview with Social Network Diva and Publicity Guru Pam Perry of Ministry Marketing Solutions.

Pam shared how she uses My Space as a witnessing tool and shared the powerful connections she has made through this unique resource.

So after much consideration, Breathe Again Magazine is now on MySpace too! So hit me up and holla atcha girl...(okay, I am so NOT hip.)

Listen to my interview with Pam Perry here.

Check us out on MySpace here.

Happy Clicking.

Blessings,

Nicole

Should I leave my church?

Dear Pastor Vicki,

I have been at my local church for a few years now and am not being used in the capacity I should be. God has blessed me with many gifts and talents but if I am not allowed to exercise them what good are they? Should I go where I know I will be used or stay and just wait?

Please help.

- A Confused Sister.

Click here for the answer.

Risks vs. Rewards: Quitting Your Day Job to Become an Entrepreneur

Do you dread going to work? Feel like you were made to something else with your life other than working for "the man?" Or is your hobby starting to pay you more than your day job?

Click here to find out what to do.

On Sale Now!

Breathe Again Magazine is offering a summer clearance sale for all classified ads.

These classifieds will be promoted on our homepage, newsletters and blogs.

We are pleased to begin offering this service as we are attracting more and more visitors to our site on a daily basis. And... in our new issue, your ad has the opportunity to be seen by many potential clients.

All Classifieds * are just $7 per month (with a 2- month minimum).

Click here for all the details.

Job Alert!

HOUSE CLEANING

$8-10 per hr
Permanent part time days
M-F, no nights or weekends
Paid training program
Friendly team environment
CALL 757-323-8879

Living Life to the Fullest Conference

Breathe Again on Myspace.com

Nicole's Pick of the Week

* Saturday, June 21st, Tropical Smoothie Cafe is giving away

* FREE Jetty Punch Smoothies to the first 500 customers (at each location) who come in wearing flip flops.

YOU MUST WEAR FLIP FLOPS

* If you'd like to verify this, the website here.

Nicole on the move!

June 28 - Living Life to the Fullest Conference

July 26 - Hampton 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family

Save The Date!

June 28 - TCE Networking Event

June 28 - Living Life to the Fullest

Nov 21-23 - Weekend to Remember

Born Without Arms -- Powerful Interview with Tawana Williams

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:34:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Last month I was humbled to be introduced to my new super hero. I'm not talking about Superman, Spiderman or even Wonder Woman (although I did want to be Wonder Woman growing up).

This super hero is Tawana Williams, author of Unarmed But Dangerous.

You see, Tawana was born without arms. The medical experts told her mother that her daughter would not live, let alone walk; they gave her a death sentence. Forty-four years later Tawana is a mother, grandmother and has turned every "Why?" into a "Why Not?"

During our interview she said, "I am the bomb, what's your excuse?" And she's absolutely right. What is our excuse? Money, people or fear?

After reading or listening to her story, you'll be in an excellent position to evaluate your future complaints and excuses. Click here for the inspirational interview I had the privilege of conducting: My Radio Show Interview with Tawana Williams.

Community

The Lord is blessing this magazine in so many ways. Last month we were honored to be the hosts of the 1st Annual GED Graduation Ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. Read more about the ceremony here: Ceremony.

Thank You

I want to take this time to just say how much we appreciate you. Thank you for visiting this site and for sharing with others; we are growing at such an enormous rate. Sometimes I sit back and read emails from our readers and get all warm and fuzzy inside. We're driven by this mission:

"Our mission is accomplished when we offer hope and a moment of encouragement, even if it's just to "one woman." - Breathe Again Magazine

And we are doing just that. If it wasn't for you - our wonderful readers - we would not be where we are today.

One reader wrote:

Hey Nicole,

I FINALLY had a chance to check out the magazine online and I LOVED IT!!!!!!! Way to go girlfriend!!! I am sooooo PROUD of you! I really loved the layout! I loved your personal note and I loved reading the stories! God Bless you on this special endeavor with this magazine, keep me posted with new updates and consider me a dedicated reader!

- M.H, Portsmouth VA

We want to hear from you. Send me an email at editor@breatheagainmagazine.com and share your thoughts and/or suggestions. This is YOUR magazine - we want YOU to be involved.

Stay Blessed

Nicole

And the winner is...

Lisa Bynum is our Friendz Network member of the month and the spotlight is on her in our "You Go Girl "section. I am honored to feature Lisa.

Read more about Lisa here.

Lay Down Your Torch and Pick Up Your Cross

There is a story in the 4th chapter of John (5:26) about a Samaritan woman who lived in Samaria and met Jesus while drawing water from a well. It was not by coincidence that He was there. This Samaritan woman had been married five times and was living with another man. Whenever she went to draw water from the well she had to listen to and deal with the other women sneering at her and talking about her.

Finish the story here.

Cover Me! Part II S. W. A. T. (Special Weapons and Tactics) for Your Marriage

In this article I will be speaking to the spouses, (but also to fiancés), not as a license to practice this principle now, but as a warning, because you will need to know, understand, and apply this information in the future. If you use godly wisdom, God will bless your marriage!

Finish the store here.

Budget Before Return

Like daffodils and robins, a tax refund is something I look forward to as a sure sign spring is here. It's a highlight of the season as far as I'm concerned. But before spring shopping fever can get the better of me, I'm always sure to plan out and stick to a reasonable budget. It's a sound strategy for staying financially on track and making the most of any green the government throws my way.

Finish the story here.

Listen to our interview with Tawana Williams

Breathe Again Magazine had the privilege to interview Tawana Williams for BAM! The Radio Show Podcast.

Her story was so powerful we decided to share the interview with not just our radio listeners but our magazine readers as well. She blessed me tremendously as she is the epitomy of strength. Enjoy the interview.

Listen to our show here.

Born Without Arms

Save the date!

June 6 - Never Would Have Made It

June 13 - Marketing Success Conference for Women Entrepreneurs

June 28 - TCE Networking Event

June 28 - Living Life to the Fullest

July 11-13 - Girlfriends Getaway Weekend Retreat

Nov 21-23 - Weekend to Remember

Nicole on the Move!

June 28 - Crown of Life Ministries - Virginia Beach VA

July 26 - 2nd Annual Celebration of the African American Family - Hampton, VA

Would you like to have Nicole speak at your next event?

Contact admin@breatheagain.org for more info.

Thank you from Breathe Again Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:18:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

What an absolute honor it was to be part of something so life transforming as the "1st Annual GED Graduation Ceremony". History was made on May 15, 2008 and seeds were sown in the lives of our wonderful and deserving graduates.

From the caps and gowns right up through the ceremonial march, it was truly a night to remember. Our graduates and guests weren't quite sure what to expect when they walked in the room. One GED instructor walked in and said, "Wow! This is beautiful. We applaud you for celebrating these graduates that would otherwise not be celebrated in a public setting."

Read the full story here.

Thank You from Breathe Again Magazine!

Thank you for sowing seeds!

We wish you a great day!

Sincerely,

Nicole Cleveland
Breathe Again

Support the sponsors that made this possible

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, William E Wood & Assoc Realtors, The Career Engineers, Norfolk Marine Institute, Pakmail, Jerpat Training & Coaching, Jerpat Virtual Assistants, Titustow Civic League, Crown of Life Ministries, Abraham Martinez, Stephanie Deshields, Sherby Wilks, Roberta Fisher, Aileen Adams, Bill & Deborah Clark, Oasis Vending, Col William & Debra Eiason, Jeremiah Cleveland, Keisha James, Anjonae, Kamyra, & Cayden, Let's Talk Inc, Faith Deliverance Christian Center, Kingston Christian Center, Beatrice Rodriguez, World Outreach Center, and Mr & Mrs Brian Patterson

Nicole's Pick of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Sat, 10 May 2008 04:04:00 +0000

A lesson to be learned from typing the wrong email address!!!!

A Minneapolis couple decided to go to Florida to thaw out during a particularly icy winter. They planned to stay at the same hotel where they spent their honeymoon 20 years earlier. Because of hectic schedules, it was difficult to coordinate their travel schedules. So, the husband left Minnesota and flew to Florida on Thursday, with his wife flying down the following day. The husband checked into the hotel. There was a computer in his room, so he decided to send an email to his wife. However, he accidentally left out one letter in her email address, and without realizing his error, sent the email.

Meanwhile, somewhere in Houston, a widow had just returned home from her husband's funeral. He was a minister who was called home to glory following a heart attack. The widow decided to check her email expecting messages from relatives and friends. After reading the first message, she screamed and fainted. The widow's son rushed into the room, found his mother on the floor, and saw the computer screen which
read:

To: My Loving Wife

Subject: I've Arrived
Date: October 16, 2005

I know you're surprised to hear from me. They have computers here now and you are allowed to send emails to your loved ones. I've just arrived and have been checked in. I've seen that everything has been prepared for your arrival tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing you then!!!!

Hope your journey is as uneventful as mine was.

P.S. Sure is freaking hot down here!!

Speak Life

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Thu, 08 May 2008 02:07:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Speak Life

While sitting watching a special on Link TV regarding racial injustice with Harry Belafonte and other prominent African Americans I stood in awe while listening to the speakers.

Harry Belafonte said, "We must do something, we have to change the number of children being sent to Prison" he went on to say, "they are no longer building schools, they are building prisons."

I made my 9 yr old come out of her room to sit and absorb what they were saying. My 9 yr old is going to be the one taking a stand on injustice. Fighting for the rights our ancestors died for.

She asks so many questions," Why Mom? "that's just not right, Mom" "I wouldn't even stand for that"

I listen to her and think, "She can change the world, she has that tenacity ,that drive-that passion. My 9 yr old genuinely loves all who she comes in contact with."

We all must strive to raise leaders and we must guard their ears, their eyes and protect them from this world.

You might be thinking, "Not my Johnny, that boy is a follower, he stays in trouble." But that's how it appears at this time.

That's what it looks like in the natural. Remember - we are more spiritual than natural. It may look like something one minute and change the very next. That's the power of God. The word says: "to speak those things that be not as though they were" What does that mean Nicole? It means to speak life to those things that appear dead or worthless.

I am a living witness that people can change, and sometimes it starts with my words. Personally, I have to speak life to many things that appear dead on a daily basis.

Speak life today.

Blessings,

Nicole

Reader Comments

Forgive & Forget

The human mind is not made to forget but we can forgive. I married someone recently who I love completely but the circumstances in which we live are unpleasant. We try to look beyond the right now in faith but I know it is an experience that when we are out of it will not be forgotten. Remembering keeps one from making the same mistake over and over again. At least I think so. Blessings to you and your ministry. - A Sister from Maryland

Comment from post entitled " Forgive & Forget" - April 2008

Network News

Happy Birthday to our very own Nichelle Cleveland.

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Issues Concerning Women, Inc.
Launches

Clean Sweep Cleaning Services

Clean Sweep Cleaning Services was created to fulfill a need to provide thorough, consistent and customized cleaning. Many families are always on the go with little time to take care of daily home chores. We are your help.

Contact Robin at 757-287-3915 or Francine at 757-567-6734.

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Share your good news with us. Send an e-mail to cpetersen@breatheagain.org.

Phenomenal Woman Awards

Special Graduation Celebrations

Would you like to help sponsor this graduation?

Sponsorship as low as $25. Contact us at info@breatheagain.org

Nicole's Pick of the Week

Must see video.

Click here to view - video!

It's a two-year-old singing the Lord's Prayer.

Enjoy!

Breathe Again Magazine Interviews Breakthrough Magazine on the Phenomenal Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 05 May 2008 18:38:00 +0000

Interview is available via audio

Click here to listen

Breakthrough Magazine

presents

The Phenomenal Woman Awards

BAM: Tell me, what is Breakthrough Magazine?

BthruMag: Breakthrough Magazine is an inspirational and trade publication. We debuted in October 2005. We are dedicated to spotlighting those who are exemplary in all that they do. We support communities, organizations, businesses and individuals that would otherwise go unnoticed in mainstream media or on a grand scale. Our concept is bringing the unseen to the mainstream.

BAM: Wonderful, wonderful. I love the title. Tell me a little about the Phenomenal Woman Awards.

BthruMag: The Phenomenal Woman Awards is there to acknowledge extraordinary women or ladies impacting our communities. Not just our cities, but across the state, women who are tirelessly giving of themselves to serve. We notice a lot of people that do give their time in various capacities and they go unnoticed. We wanted to spotlight those individuals.

BAM: Well, kudos to you. I think the Phenomenal Woman Awards is awesome. Tell us about the different categories you have. You have the Lifetime Achievement Awards…

BthruMag: Yes. Pastor Deborah Butler of International Christian Center is the recipient for the Lifetime Achievement Awards. This pretty much is an award about leadership and inspiration, and Pastor Deborah exudes all that. And this year is the first year. The Life Time Award women are examples of women who have a lifetime of learning and achievement and pretty much live their lives by examples for others to follow in. That reminds me of the scripture Hebrews 6:12: “Imitate those through faith and patience…and inherit the promise.” She’s definitely a model of that scripture for all of us. So, that’s how they came to the determination to nominate her for the award.

BAM: Great! And you also have the Phenomenal Woman Award?

BthruMag: Yes. Now the Phenomenal Woman Award: one who is remarkable and leads with passion, purpose and power, one who takes a stance and impacts their communities within their career as well. And we had a couple of people up for the award and it was a tie breaker they were telling me! I think its going to be great when the actual winner is announced.

BAM: Wonderful! Now, tell us who the nominees are.

BthruMag: We have three nominees for this category. We have Kimberley Brooks who is an author. Annette Huffs Jackson is from Daytona Beach, FL. And Dr. Mary Hauthiam is in the industry. She currently works for the State of Michigan, and she is involved in numerous community service activities, helping people in various diversities.

BAM: And you have the Prestigious Woman Awards.

BthruMag: Yes the Prestigious Woman Awards are our awards for the women who are vivacious and on the move to destiny. These women are esteemed, confident and motivated. They are focused and driven in pursuing their purpose and they don’t take no as a defeat. We’re excited about the people we have in that category because they definitely represent it.

BAM: Tell us who the nominees are for the Prestigious Woman Award?

BthruMag: Yes, we have Dr. Tye Evans who is an Evangelist, author, and playwright; she is out of Detroit Michigan. We have Christina Marie Strong who is very vivacious. She’s only 18, and I’m just in awe of all the things that she is doing.

BAM: WOW!

BthruMag: All the things she’s involved in her community. In Detroit, she is motivating the youth. She has four different programs that she has currently worked on and gotten grants for. She holds youth forums, too, in the effort to help the youth in the Detroit area.

BAM: WOW! That is wonderful and you also have the Distinguished Woman awards?

BthruMag: Yes, the Distinguished Woman awards are for women who are different but we wanted to single them out so we take special notice of their achievement, lifestyles and recognize them in leadership and their accomplishments. Having said that,we have two nominees for that category: one of them is Tonya Davis. She is a retired hairstylist out of Detroit Michigan. She recently did her stage play called “Drama in the Shop.” She was the executive producer of that play and that was her first one that she did last year. So, she’s just now getting into the entertainment industry. She also helps those that are less fortunate. Her organization, called Harvest Equity LLC, helps first-time home buyers buy homes. She is a recovered drug addict as well.

BAM: Wow! And the second person?

BthruMag: The second person’s name is Olivia Stith. She’s out of Chesapeake, Virginia. She’s also an author, a speaker, and a mentor. She has two books. One is called “If God is My Lover Why is My Bed So Cold?” and her second book is going to be released this June called “Is Boaz Lost or am I in the Wrong Field?” Did I say she was from Chesapeake, Virginia?

BAM: You did!

BthruMag: So, we are excited – a diversity of women from all over.

BAM: Absolutely! Oh, and I think you picked the right title. I think it basically sums up all of these women.

BthruMag: Yes, yes.

BAM: And you also have a category for teenagers, is that correct?

BthruMag: Yes, we do. That one is called Novice Extraordinaire and these are youth in the community who are pretty much on the move to excellence. They have the schedule of a corporate career woman and they’re entrepreneurs. They’re academic scholars. One has held a 4.0 their entire scholastic career and the other one is has a 3.8 GPA as well. Ricarah Riddle has received a Girl Scout award -- which is the highest award for Girl Scouts. She received that in March. She’s going to be going to Spellman, which is a historically black college. Since last year she has been writing her own business plan so when she goes to Atlanta she is going to be opening her own custom realtor shop as well as modeling worldwide. We thought that was just absolutely phenomenal.

BAM: WOW! They are doing big things... and the second nominee? Well, no that’s not a nominee; they are actually receiving the awards?

BthruMag: Yes. They are going to be getting recognized and receiving an award. The second one is Ariana Pierce. She is a phenomenal woman as well. So is her mother, Dr. Stacia Pierce. Having said that, that’s pretty much all you can say about Ariana. She’s definitely an imitation of her mom, who herself is an entrepreneur. She started a club. She is also an author and co-hosted a teen success conference with her mother during May with the Woman Success Conference. There are over 600 teens every year that attend her conference.

BAM: That is amazing, absolutely amazing. Well, wow! Now the Distinguished Woman Award, tell us exactly when will it take place?

BthruMag: Well the awards are going to be Thursday, May 8, here in Lancing at the Hill Auditorium at 7 p.m. We have two presenters for the awards, Antwaun Stanley who’s our presenter, as well as publicity mogul, and marketing coach, Pam Perry. As well as Erin Rue, who’s an actress and model. She’s also the niece of J-Moss. She’s such a delight; she’s my little sunshine.

BAM: Tell me about the pink carpet. When I first found out about the Phenomenal Woman Awards, I saw that it was going to be a pink carpet as opposed to a red carpet. Tell us what exactly is a pink carpet?

BthruMag: It’s pretty much the same thing as the red carpet but it’s just a different twist. It’s an upscale awards ceremony and we wanted to distinguish from the typical red carpet. We figured since it’s a women’s event, let’s try the pink carpet and see how that goes.

BAM: Wow. That’s wonderful!

BthruMag: Most people think a pink carpet is different.

BAM: Wow. That is very different. Kudos to you and your entire team for putting this on. Tell our listeners exactly how they can get in touch with you. What’s your website address?

BthruMag: Our website is breakthroughonlinemag.com. You can also find us on myspace/breakthroughmagazine.com.

BAM: Wonderful. Breakthrough Magazine. You guys heard it. Go on to the web and click on their icon. We’re going to have it posted on our website as well so you can click right through and find out more information about Breakthrough Magazine. I think Breakthrough, the title, is so neat because we all need to break through something.

BthruMag: Exactly. Our logo is actually, “Every struggle endures a breakthrough and every breakthrough endures a struggle.” I think that pretty much says it. Anything you go through in life, you have to go through a struggle in order to get a breakthrough. The same thing with a break through, you can’t have a break through without going through a struggle.

BAM: That is so true. Well, thank you so much for joining us and much success and many prayers to the Phenomenal Woman Awards as well as to Breakthrough Magazine. Thank you so much for joining us!

BthruMag: Thank you.

Must see video!

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0000

You have got to see this video! It's a two-year-old singing the Lord's Prayer

Enjoy!

Forgive but NEVER forget

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 02:58:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

FORGIVE BUT NEVER FORGET

It rubs me the wrong way when people say "Just forgive and forget". They use the words so carelessly, like it's an easy task.

Would they say that to the late Coretta Scott King? Just forgive and forget they shot and killed your husband? What about Harriet Tubman? If she were still here today would we say just forgive and forget what you went through? How could we forget, as a people what she did for us.

I could never forget what my husband and I have GROWN through. (you see I didn't say gone or went through) We should appreciate the trials. Lord knows I didn't appreciate them in the process. I didn't understand it. But now I know it was for a purpose.

The songwriter says

"How can I forget what you've done for me?"
"How can I forget how you set me free?"
"How can I forget how you brought me out?"
"How can I forget?"
"No, never"

The dictionary says to forget is; to cease or fail to remember

Personally, I think we should forgive but we must NEVER forget.

I know we will receive mixed emails regarding this, but that's why it's great to all be unique. We have the capability to have our very own opinion and this is just my opinion.

What do you think? Email me at editor@breatheagainmagazine.com

Blessings,

Nicole

PS. TESTIFY - Leave a post in our brand new testimony forum.

Network News

Happy Birthday to our very own Felecia Cleveland.

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Appreciation Service for Pastor Vicki Coward.

WHEN: Sunday, April 20, 2008
TIME: 5 pm
WHERE: Agape International Ministries Worldwide
8001 Staples Mill Road & Wistar
Richmond VA 23228

For more information, call (804) 266-3000.

Phenomenal Woman Awards

Special Graduation Celebrations

Nicole's Pick of the Week

This week I have chosen to share our testimony forum with you.

We are so excited to share this forum with you, as my testimony is the reason we founded the magazine. Testimonies are so powerful and every week more churches are doing away with the testimony part of service.

There is power in your testimony. There is deliverance in your testimony. Someone's life could be changed by just hearing what you have overcome and how you made it through. So, please share your testimonies in this forum.

Never think your testimony doesn't matter. You never know what someone may be struggling with. Share often. Help others.

Remember: someone is waiting to hear your testimony.

If not you - then who?
If not now - then when?

Sowing Seeds

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 01:32:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

When you think of sowing seeds what comes to mind?

They tell me this is the perfect season to start planting seeds. Seeds for vegetables, flowers and even grass.

As a child I can remember helping my grandfather till his garden in the early spring and even pulling weeds out of the flower beds for planting.

It would amaze me how the tomatoes, corn and peppers would magically appear. But in reality it wasn't magic. It was work. My Pop-Pop would rise early in the morning to ensure the plants were maintained. He would chase off the animals that would try and destroy what he was working so hard to grow. He was the keeper of what he was growing. It was his job to make sure he guarded the crops.

We all plant some type of seeds. But just like my Pop-Pop we must guard what is growing.

On May 15th 2008 Breathe Again Magazine and it's partners will be planting a garden.

No, it's not corn, tomatoes or even grass.

We will celebrate local GED graduates. So many times we expose the negative but rarely celebrate the accomplishments. Won't you consider watering this garden with us?

By helping, you will be sowing seeds of hope and encouragement. We want these graduates to know that they too, can dream big.

From time to time I speak at workforce and GED graduations.

A student once asked, "how far can I go since I messed up? " My response was, " How far do you want to go? The ball is in your court. It's all up to you."

If you would like to help please email us at info@breatheagain.org

Blessings,

Nicole

News You Can Use

Five Myths About Drinking Water

Myth No. 1: Drink Eight Glasses Each Day Scientists say there's no clear health benefit to chugging or even sipping water all day. So where does the standard advice of drinking eight glasses each day come from? "Nobody really knows," says Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, a kidney expert at the University of Pennsylvania.

Read the other 4 Myths here

Network News

Homebuyers Workshop
WHEN: April 5, 2008
TIME: 12 pm - 1:30 pm

Topics inlcude First-Time Home buyers programs, Closing Cost Assistance, and more.

To register contact, Deborah at 757-536-6555, Robin at 757-287-3915, or Darlene at 757-892-9551.

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Issues Concerning Women, Inc

"Angels of Hope" Prayer Breakfast

WHEN: April 5, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 12 pm
WHERE: The Murray Center
455 E Brambleton Ave
Norfolk, VA
COST: Donation of $20 add $1 for Paypal

Guest Speakers will include:

Nicole Cleveland - Breathe Again Magazine
Veronica McMillion - Let's Talk Inc
Robin Ferebee - Issues Concerning Women, Inc.
Marsha Kentish - Rebirth Cleaning Services

For more information, visit www.comeanddoit.com.

Phenomenal Woman Awards

Vickie Winan's Teen Talent Search

email: info@breatheagain.org
web: www.breatheagainmagazine.com

How ya Living?

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 18:08:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

When I first gave my life to the Lord I felt inadequate because I wasn't raised in the church. It wasn't a priority growing up. I didn't know many scriptures, like some people did. I would be amazed at the number of scriptures people in church could just quote.

Because my husband was raised in church, graduated from a Christian school and came from a family of Bishops, Evangelists & Preachers, he knew the word and the location of every book in the bible. It would take me 10 minutes to find Micah, and I would pray the preacher wouldn't want to preach out of Obadiah because I didn't even know Obadiah was a book in the bible. (smile) Can I be real? I quickly learned it's not the number of scriptures one knew by heart but what was in their heart.

Pastor Lillard of New Bethel COGIC in Norfolk, VA would always say, "It don't matter what folks say about you and the lies they tell. Your job is to make sure what they say are actually lies."

How ya living?

Do you know where every book in the bible is but still cussing folks out? Are you in church every time the door opens but are the main one causing friction in the house of God? If it is you, it's ok. The first step in change is admitting you need to change. And we all fall short, so don't beat yourself up.

We sometimes must step back and ask, "Is it me Lord?"

And allow Him to answer.

Blessings,

Nicole

News You Can Use

One in 4 Teen Girls Has a Sexually Transmitted Disease

"What we found is alarming," Dr. Sara Forhan, from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said during a teleconference Tuesday. "One in four female adolescents in the U.S. has at least one of the four most common STDs that affects women."

Learn more here.

Network News

The D.I.V.A Conference

WHEN: Saturday, March 29, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 1 pm
WHERE: Holiday Inn Select Hotel
N Military Highway
Norfolk VA
COST: $25 per person

Register today by calling 757-576-2279 or sending an e-mail to blezzed2006@juno.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Homebuyers Workshop
WHEN: April 5, 2008
TIME: 12 pm - 1:30 pm

Topics inlcude First-Time Home buyers programs, Closing Cost Assistance, and more.

To register contact, Deborah at 757-536-6555, Robin at 757-287-3915, or Darlene at 757-892-9551.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Issues Concerning Women, Inc

"Angels of Hope" Prayer Breakfast

WHEN: April 5, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 12 pm
WHERE: The Murray Center
455 E Brambleton Ave
Norfolk, VA
COST: Donation of $20 add $1 for Paypal

For more information, visit www.comeanddoit.com.

The Pros & Cons of Social Networks

My Space, Facebook,Shoutlife and Linked In are just a few online social networks society has grown to embrace. Is it a benefit or just a waste of valuable time? Listen to interview with network industry expert Pam Perry as she shares how she has embraced these networks in a Godly way.

Breathe Again Magazine interviews Pam Perry of Ministry Marketing Solutions

Listen to our show here.

Nicole's Pick of the Week

Each week I will share something I have come across via email or via the web.

This week I am featuring Nathan Richardson's poetic version of "The Age Every Girl Wants to Be" I pray you enjoy it as much as I did.

Click here to watch the video.

Nicole's Pick of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 20:15:00 +0000

Each week I will share something I have come across via email or via the web. This week I am featuring Nathan Richardson's poetic version of "The Age Every Girl Wants to Be" I pray you enjoy it as much as I did.

Be Prepared

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 02:19:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Be Prepared

The Lord woke me up early this morning (3:30am) and had me in John 10:1-42

I love the fact that when Jesus was teaching and his students didn't understand he went back and broke it down for them. He didn't try to get real deep with big words and be all educated. He talked to them in parables - stories that they would understand.

He warns us in vs 10 that

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

The enemy's main objective is to KILL, STEAL & DESTROY. There's no need to sugarcoat it. He is after your seed, your dream and your purpose. Don't play with it. It is what it is. The only true weapon you have is your word. It is your only chance of survival. You must have it in you ahead of time. Since you know his assignment, be ready. You don't know when he will attack, but rest assured he will. Be on guard.

Only a fool would try to go on a road trip with just $5 worth of gas. You won't get very far. And without the word in you, the enemy will destroy you. You won't get very far.

Be prepared.

Stay Blessed,

Nicole

The Wise Woman in Me

Are you the wise woman who is building her home with the knowledge and information gathered throughout 2007? Or are you the foolish woman who has ignored sound advice and shut out the Network because you feel that God has not answered any of your prayers so why bother?

Finish this great article here.

Friendz Network News

Friendz Network Member Lisa Bynum would like to take this time to invite you to this life changing conference. Invite your sisters, mothers, cousins, aunts, and friends.

The D.I.V.A Conference

WHEN: Saturday, March 29, 2008
TIME: 9 am - 1 pm
WHERE: Holiday Inn Select Hotel
N Military Highway
Norfolk VA
COST: $25 per person

Register today by calling 757-576-2279 or sending an e-mail to blezzed2006@juno.com.

Dorinda Clark-Cole Releases Third Solo CD

"TAKE IT BACK" IN STORES APRIL 15, 2008

TAKE IT BACK was co-written by Dorinda Clark- Cole with production by Asaph Ward and PAJAM. The disc features powerful songs of triumph, hope and encouragement with musical styles that run the gamut from neo-soul and jazz to the foot-stomping, make- you-want-to-get-up-and-dance traditional gospel for which Dorinda Clark-Cole is known. - Courtesy of Zomba Records

Gospel Songs Requested for Compilation CD

email: info@breatheagain.org
web: www.breatheagainmagazine.com

Frustration was an understatement!

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 02:23:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

My day was planned. It was a nice, mild temperature day in February. The sun was shining and I was armed with my Saturday "to do" list. My 9 yr old had an early basketball game (so that was a blessing). The nail shop, bank, post office and a few other tasks should be completed by 5pm (at the latest) and I could be relaxing and maybe even taking a nap by 6pm .

So why is it 8:30pm and I'm standing in the checkout line at Walmart?

Frustration was an understatement !

My pastor teaches - if you pray for patience, expect to be tried. I am in full agreement with him but that is not my prayer. SO WHY WAS I BEING TESTED IN WALMART?

Duh! It was the 1st week of the month. (I made a vow to never go to Walmart around the 1st of the month.) There is never any bread, ramen noodles and my sea shell pasta is always out of stock. There were shoppers with two and three carts. Shrimp, steak and many items that are never on my list overflowed their shopping carts. Each time I go grocery shopping, my calculator must be in hand.

Something was wrong. My day was not supposed to go like this.

Isn't that just like God. What we want and what God has planned is very different.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11

We knew who we would marry, how many kids we would have, where we would reside and work. But God will step in and say NOT! That's how it works.

Just know that whatever you think should happen - may not be how it will happen.

Be Encouraged and don't give up. If life is not going as planned-- keep living. It's just a detour.

Stay Blessed

Nicole

Book Review: Girl, Get Your Credit Straight!

Do you need to fix your credit?

Girl, Get Your Credit Straight!: A Sister's Guide to Ditching Your Debt, Mending Your Credit, and Building a Strong Financial Future by Glinda Bridgforth.

Not only does this book cause one to see the truth about their current financial situation, it offers surgery for the pocketbook, credit score, and finances.

Finish the book review here.

The Truth About Abdominal Fat

Millions of people may in fact be satisfied with their over-all body shape but when it comes to getting a flat mid-section, they are completely at a lost as to how they can effectively target that problematic area. Here is the "flat out" truth about getting flatter abs.

Finish the story here.

Gone Too Soon: Mother Is Gone Too Soon

That title seems a bit misleading. It's always too soon to lose your mother, whether you have her 20, 40 or even 60 years. Some say losing a child is the hardest thing a woman can endure. Others say it's losing her mother. I've been through both - and doubt I'll ever be able to say any more than that it's life changing to lose the link in either direction.

Finish the story here.

News You Can Use

Do you enjoy a wedge of lemon with your water or iced tea when you eat at a restaurant? Well, you'll be shocked by what this video shows. Two out of every three restaurant lemon wedges tested in a study were covered in disease-causing bacteria -- including fecal bacteria. A total of 25 different, and potentially dangerous, microorganisms were discovered on the wedges.

Watch the tell all video here.

email: info@breatheagain.org
web: www.breatheagainmagazine.com

The Wise Woman in Me

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:47:00 +0000

Proverbs 14:1 says, "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands."

Are you the wise woman who is building her home with the knowledge and information gathered throughout 2007? Have you built your Crying Angel Network and used it to help you move through the valley? Or are you the foolish woman who has ignored sound advice and shut out the Network because you feel that God has not answered any of your prayers so why bother?

I learned in 2007 that the "Superwoman" attitude nearly destroyed not only my joy, but my home. I cannot do everything and be everything to all people. This was to be my year of completion and it was. I learned that I am a complete fool to try to do it all. I learned that giving it all completely to the Lord is a much wiser and safer thing to do because when I try to take over God's purpose for me, I completely mess it all up.

How many times have you sat in your car crying because you feel so stupid or alone? How many times have you said to yourself that you wish you could just disappear into the night? Well, you are not alone if you said yes to any of these questions. The fact of the matter is that we feel this way when we've tried and failed to take care of everything. Or, when we've tried to pursue a career or job that we only wanted because it paid well or offered benefits for our children, but it was not what we REALLY wanted to do. Stop settling! That's what you've had to learn the hard way this year, wasn't it?

I am saying to you that life is not easy; it’s not supposed to be. The wise woman accepts that and has mastered creating opportunities in the obstacles. That’s why when you see her walking down the street with her head held high and laughing at what appears to be nothing at all, you either want to be her or despise her because she has built her home; she has built her Network and she is working that network. She refuses to settle because wisdom has taught her well.

So, ladies, for 2008, take all that you have learned about yourself and life in 2007 and be the wise woman who builds her home. The devil is after us because if the woman is broken, then the home and all in it is destroyed. Don't let it happen! Don't pull down your home in 2008.

2008 is the year of WISDOM!

~Copyright © 2007 Rebekah L. Pierce. Mrs. Pierce is the Editor in Chief of Average Girl Magazine, a motivational and inspirational magazine for women in search of change, purpose and prosperity. She is also a playwright, former radio talk show host, motivational speaker, teacher, wife and mother. Visit www.averagegirlmagazine.com for more information.

Never say Never

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:35:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Have you ever said that you would NEVER do something?

Read the article entitled Never say Never and find out what I said never to.

In this article I share a very intimate pain that cut so deep I thought I would lose my mind.

Have you ever actually felt your heart hurt? I have and it was a pain that only God could mend.

My prayer is that this article helps someone.

New Issue is posted !!!

Check out A Man's Point of View -- Rick Sumler shares with us why the men in our lives are so quiet

Make sure to read how Elaine Sloan beat cancer with a Vegan Diet.

Stephanie Walker is back -- This time she shares how she had to allow the Lord to heal her the way he wanted and not how she wanted.

Enjoy our new issue

Blessings,

Nicole

And the winner is...

Anna Campbell is our Friendz Network member of the month and the spotlight is on her in our "You Go Girl "section. I am honored to feature Anna. Read all about her.

Anna is the President and Founder for Women Business Owners. She has been an entrepreneur for many years now and she believes in finding our true purpose and happiness in life.

Read more about Anna here.

I Beat Breast Cancer With a Vegan Diet - You Can Too!

As a breast cancer survivor, I'm particularly interested in studies showing the connection between breast cancer and diet. One recent study conducted by researchers at the Fox Chase Cancer Center, Harvard University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, and Vanderbilt University confirmed what a number of previous studies have shown: Women who eat meat are more likely to develop breast cancer than women who don't eat meat.

Read more here.

Let Me Heal You The Way I Want To!

LORD! I DON'T WANT TO GO TO THIS CHURCH; THESE PEOPLE GET ON MY LAST NERVE! DO YOU HEAR ME JESUS?

Read more here.

Friendz Network News

Saturday, December 1st - Shop, Drop...Network (TCE Potomac Mills Trip & DC networking) www.tcebustrip.eventbrite.com. Information submitted by Francina R. Harrison, MSW, "The Career Engineer" (friendz network member).

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Saturday, December 8th - Meet Gerry McCants, (Black Expo & The Black Pages Publisher) www.thecareerengineers.com. Information submitted by Francina R. Harrison, MSW, "The Career Engineer"(Friendz Network Member)

"Why Are Men Silent In Relationships?"

Some reasons include:

men are not comfortable with vocal communication
paranoid that wife/girlfriend will expose weakness
previous relationship left them emotionally scarred

Finish the article here.

Book Review - How Strong Women Pray

How Strong Women Pray by Bonnie St. John takes us into the prayer habits of some of the world's most influential women. Maya Angelou, Susan Taylor, Kathie Lee Gifford and Barbara Bush are some of the women featured in this book

Read entire review here.

Alone on Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 20:15:00 +0000

There are millions of people that will be alone this Thanksgiving.

Dear Friend,

Alone on Thanksgiving

In thinking about what card I should send you I was torn. I asked myself, " Do I send the same Happy Thanksgiving greeting that will fill your inbox or will I be different?"

I wanted this to be a bit more personal.

As we sit around the table enjoying family and friends company let's not forget the person that has no one and no where to go this Thanksgiving. There are people you sit next to in church and co workers you see each day that will be alone. They smile and very politely accept your "Happy Thanksgiving", but inside they are thinking,

"What's happy about it? My husband left me, my kids are acting crazy and I'm barely making ends meet."

For some, this is your first Thanksgiving without that "special somebody".I was there. When my husband and I separated, the holidays were the worst. I wanted to crawl under a rock. I had to quickly realize that I couldn't change the situation, so I mine as well make the most of it.

Remember: There will only be one Thanksgiving in 2007. Make the most of it. Decide to make beautiful,lasting positive memories. They will last a lifetime!

Call someone you haven't talked to in a while and play catch up.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Nicole Cleveland
Breathe Again Magazine
Breathe Again Magazine Blog

PS. I'm thankful for you.

Oh Happy Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 22:06:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Oh Happy Day!

Is your day going well?

If not, step back,take a break, gather your thoughts and start again.

I just love the fact that we have control over our own actions and our own feelings. You can't control how people around you act - but you can control how you REACT.

Did you know that some people are assigned to you? They are in your life just to push your buttons. They push and wait... push and wait...And once they get the reaction they were waiting for (because we all fall short) They say ,"See, I told you she/he wasn't a Christian. I told you they weren't saved." You know the kind.

This time be equipped. Be prepared. Next time they push your buttons or work on your nerves do the total opposite of what they expect.

Just smile. Better yet. Laugh!

Just laugh!

Make the most of the rest of your day.

Blessings,

Nicole

Inside Newsletter

BE INFORMED - BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ALLOW THE KIDS TO WATCH
Vickie Winans Contest Earns $10,000 for 21 Year Old Songwriter
Friendz Network News
Earn your Degree Online
Crossings Book Club

BE INFORMED - BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ALLOW THE KIDS TO WATCH

There will be a new children's movie out in December called 'The Golden Compass' starring Nicole Kidman. The movie has been described as 'atheism for kids' and is based on the first book of a trilogy entitled 'His Dark Materials'.

Read more here

Vickie Winans Contest Earns $10,000 for 21 Year Old Songwriter

Twenty-one year old Brandon Colar got the shock of his life this past week when six Time Grammy nominated gospel music legend Vickie Winans came to his job at Panera Bread and presented him with a $10,000 check.

Read more here

Friendz Network News

The Hampton Roads Teen Summit

This event is designed for our teens to have the opportunity to participate in an open forum discussing their issues and getting some answers.

December 15, 2007 at 12:00pm

Eternal Life Worship Center
5665 East Virgina Beach Blvd
Norfolk VA

For more information, contact Paula B. at 757-544-5052

Earn your Degree Online

Have you thought about going back to school? What about a new career? Change your financial future. Enroll in online classes today.

Leading directory of online schools and distance learning programs

Crossings Book Club

Put Prayer Pups Christian Cartoons on your website!

Put Prayer Pups Christian Cartoons on your website!

Join our mailing list!

email: infor@breatheagain.org
web: www.breatheagainmagazine.com

Breathe Again Magazine News for 10/24

noreply@blogger.com (Things that Make You Go Shhhh) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 23:44:00 +0000

Dear Friend,

Can You Buy PEACE ??? If you could pay for peace would you buy it? When I say peace I mean, stillness, calmness, serenity... Oh yes, the peace that passes all understanding. Of course we all know that you can't actually pay for peace in your mind or peace in your home. That comes by the way of prayer (for me). Let's rewind back to June 2007. We were planning...

Inside Newsletter

California fires
Vickie Winans Singers & Songwriters Contest
Friendz Network
News Earn your Degree Online
Crossings Book Club

California fires

California has some major fires right now. Here is an article found on Fox News. Please pray with us that these people are safe and are able to get out of harms way. Also, please pray with us that the firemen and women are safe while fighting these fires.

SAN DIEGO - Wildfires blown by fierce desert winds Monday reduced scores of Southern California homes to ashes, forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee and laid a hellish, spidery pattern of luminous orange over the drought-stricken region.

At least one person was killed in the fires, and dozens were injured. Nearly 130 homes had burned in one mountain town alone, and thousands of other buildings were threatened by more than a dozen blazes covering at least 310 square miles.

Finish the article here.

Vickie Winans Singers & Songwriters Contest

Friendz Network News

Sat, October 27th, TCE Networking Meeting.

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Rebirth Cleaning Service is part of an organization called Cleaning for a Reason. This organization provides free cleaning services for women under going cancer treatment. For more info please visit www.c4support.org and www.cleaningforareason.org. Rebirth Cleaning is a Friendz Network Business Member.

Earn your Degree Online

Have you thought about going back to school? What about a new career? Change your financial future. Enroll in online classes today.

Leading directory of online schools and distance learning programs

Crossings Book Club

email: infor@breatheagain.org
web: www.breatheagainmagazine.com