NEW INSPIRATION

Education is Key ~ A Breast Cancer Awareness Resource

2011-10-03T13:02:00.004-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

This month The Gift of NI is honoring, celebrating, and supporting women in their fight against breast cancer by hosting Pink Mondays. We will share educational resources and stories of survival, hope, courage, strength, and lost.

Our first resource comes from Beyond The Shock, a website designed to educate, inform, and provide resources for all those affected by breast cancer. You will find a wealth of information and support on the site if you've been diagnosed with breast cancer or if you are a family member who wants to learn more about supporting your loved one through her fight. Click the link below to view a short video introducing Beyond The Shock's online educational training. Check out the rest of the training on their website to gain an understanding of the various types of breast cancer, their spread and treatment.

Introduction (from Beyond The Shock's Online Breast Cancer Education)

I Have Spirit, Yes I Do! ~ How Spirit Helped One Mompreneur Build a Supportive Community for other DizzyBusyMamas!

2011-07-01T05:07:00.003-04:00

I have spirit yes I do. I have spirit, how about you? Spirit-filled women are all around us. They are recognizable by their words, actions and relationships. They teach us how to endure, how to survive, and how to use our resources to build a better community and world. They challenge us and hold us accountable for who we say we are.

When you meet Tiffany Lampe, you cross paths with a woman that is full of and inspires spirit! As a wife, mother, and business owner, Tiffany used her creative talents and marketing and networking skills to build a spirit-filled community that supports the personal and professional needs of mompreneurs. Guided by her spirit and mission to serve and support WAHMs (Work-At-Home-Moms), Tiffany created her dream business, DizzyBusyMamas. The primary services of this online support community include low-cost business listings, and free marketing and networking tools for mompreneurs. Even in its infancy, DizzyBusyMamas is successfully connecting moms and providing affordable resources to support their personal and professional growth.

How does Tiffany define spirit and how does it play a role in her business model? Take a trip to her website homepage to find the answers to these questions. Tiffany connects moms through shared experience, humor, need and service.

Experience with a Pinch of Comedy

Tiffany uses a little humor to let us all in on a little secret. What is it? We all feel like we have 100 Post-It Notes stuck to our bodies, which help us keep up with our schedules, family responsibilities, deadlines, business goals, and “me time”. Moms get the sense right away that they’re not alone in the madness. For fun, I’m actually considering sticking a few Post-It Notes to myself one day just to add a little comic relief to my “To Do List”. I let you know how it goes!

Tiffany also uses one of my favorite motivational tools, the anthem, to inspire, encourage and connect mompreneurs!

“Feeling alone in a venture can make it seem scarier than it really is.” ~ Tiffany Lampe, June 15, 2001

I am a firm believer in the power of a strong inspiring song. It helps to keep my energy, enthusiasm and motivation up! Moms can’t help but have their fire and spirit ignite when they push play on Tiffany’s favorite motivational anthem.

Addressing Needs

Whether you’re working inside or outside the home, as a mompreneur you require a regular renewal of spirit to maintain a healthy life-balance. You also need a supportive, resourceful network to help you simplify a few basic business marketing tasks. How does Tiffany use DizzyBusyMama to address this need? She provides business listings for an affordable $20 a year. For the cost of 4 cups of coffee you can list your business in DizzyBusyMama’s Business Directory for an entire year and advertise to a growing network of customers eager to know more about how your products and services can simplify their lives.

Service

Finally, we’ve all heard that service and giving back are cornerstone practices of most successful businesses. How does Tiffany use DizzyBusyMama to unite moms in a spirit of service? By hosting Mama’s Market, a promotional tool that helps mompreneurs gain more business exposure while also providing a gifting opportunity. When you list your business with DizzyBusyMama and participate in the Mama’s Market, a portion of your sales are donated to charity via the Mama Fund. This resource was created to provide a way for mompreneurs to give and receive; the ultimate win-win scenario!

Tiffany, I would like to personal thank you for the service you provide! Yes, my business, The Gift of NI, is listed in the DizzyBusyMama Business Directory. I look forward to a long, prosperous relationship!

Ladies, if you have your own business or you’re thinking about starting one, check out DizzyBusyMama today. Tiffany has created a special place just for you!

I have spirit, yes I do! I have spirit, how about you?

Sincerely,

Derika Chia

Connect With Tiffany

Facebook

Twitter

Digg

Love Her

2011-06-29T05:30:00.001-04:00

Love her

in her yesterday

a midst all her isims

and naiveties

her girlish ways

Love her

in her today

surrounded by befores and afters

uncertainties, ever changing

from day to day

Love her

in her tomorrow

as comfort and acceptance

balance her dynamic space

birthing wholeness within

as the pieces of her

past, present and future

form an intrinsic pattern

that is the life she lives

Love her

the girl, the woman, the you

Love her

long before others do

April 1, 20??

2011-06-22T02:45:00.003-04:00

Hard times show the nature,
the character of man
his values, his beliefs
the core essence of his being
recession bringing out that
depressed, depraved art he's seeking
What’s really inside that hidden part
of his heart that stays caged,
locked away…,
most days?
Tonight he’s out on the prowl
searching for something to satisfy his need
as these times have pressed him abundantly
beyond the boundaries of disguise
past the limits and capabilities of his masking
yet he will not take off his face
false, though it be
out of fear you’ll see his real…
Identity, he wears it
torn,
ripped,
ragged
proudly
having lied to himself so long
he does not see the holes that give witness
to the false image he tries so desperately
to convince all
another he is…, maybe
unlike his true self
a foolish farmer at best,
that doesn’t understand the how to plow,
plant, or produce a crop of wealth
but continuously repeats a pattern
shooting aimlessly in the dark
at a target, established upon a goal
created without an understanding
of the power of clarity
Vision…,
seeing consequence, upon consequence
in entirety
knowing not the Who, What, When
and How his small piece fits into the whole
he plows, he plants, and harvests a crop
then turns around and buries it in a hole
mourning a single coin of profit for all his work
His fault
he only knew one definition of wealth
because he never sat at the feet of the wise
or spent any time with the learned
but in his youthful arrogance
thought himself ready to lead
a congregation of meaning
His territory sprouted wings
grew strong walking sticks
and a thunderous voice to speak
It rose up against him, righteously
for all to see
how God uses the weak
to bring the strong down to his knees
He discovers…Power is reserved for the humble
Wealth is set aside for the meek
So don’t be like the thoughtless farmer
living his days without direction
negatively interfering with all his blessings
He is the harvest of Spring’s foolish April
he is the Ficus Carica declared incapable

We Have a Winner!

2011-06-18T00:15:00.004-04:00

Congratulations goes out to Kathleen Chmura, the winner of our "How do You Celebrate the Women You Love?" Contest! Kathleen won two of our Within Pendants; one to keep and one to give away. Thank you so much Kathleen for helping us spread the word about The Gift of NI!

Celebrate her inner light with the Within Pendant from The Gift of NI!

Inspire her to shine even brighter with the Within Pendant!

A big Thank You goes out to all the contestants, friends and fans! We love your fan loyalty and want to do our very best to show you our appreciation! If you didn't have a chance to enter this contest, please make sure you stay tuned for details about our next giveaway. You can connect with us here, on The Gift of NI Facebook Fan Page, and via NetworkedBlogs.

Until then, remember to Celebrate the Women You Love with The Gift of NI!

Sincerely,

Derika Chia

How Do You Celebrate the Women You Love Contest!!

2011-06-10T17:59:00.008-04:00

In the past few months, I've posted a few giveaways on my Facebook fan page, The Gift of NI. It's my way of saying "Thank You" to my wonderful friends and fans for their awesome support! Sadly, when it's time to collect the prize a few unlucky winners missed out because they didn't respond back in time! We need to create a win-win situation.

In an effort to promote a successful contest I went on the hunt for a few new tools. I am ALWAYS searching for new tools! What did I find? Can you say PunchTab! This fabulous application allows me to reward you for keeping up with The Gift of NI and helping me spread the word!

Am I excited? What I want to know is, "Are You Excited?"

I'm going to up the ante a little bit. The winner of this contest will receive not just one but two Within Pendants from The Gift of NI. Why is this such a treat? Well, The Gift of NI wants to help you Celebrate the Women You Love. What better way to promote our mission than to gift you with two fabulous pendants so that you may keep one and give the other away! Now how cool is that?!

Contest Details
If you're 18 years or older and reside in one of our magnificent 50 States or beautiful Canada you are eligible to participate in the contest. It is so easy to enter, you would be crazy not too! Simply, connect to and follow the instructions on our PunchTab contest widget below. Have fun with it! You can earn multiple entries by following all the instructions listed.

1. Like this giveaway and share it on Facebook (+1 entry).

2. Answer the question, "How Do You Celebrate the Women You Love?" in the widget comment box provided (+1 entry). We moderate all comments so keep it PG and Positive!!

3. Like The Gift of NI Facebook fan page (+1 entry).

Could it be any easier? This contest ends on June 18, 2011 at 12 AM. At that time, we will select a random winner from all the entries. Each additional entry increases your odds of winning so go ahead and get started!

Spread the word and remember to Celebrate the Women You Love with The Gift of NI!

Note* We reserve the right to modify the contest at any time. We will post an update if and when changes occur. We also reserve the right to disqualify contestants for inappropriate comments or behaviors.

What’s in Your Tool box?

2011-06-10T15:04:00.003-04:00

So Wednesday, after sharing my story on how I went from dishing out “in your face” realism to becoming my best “WOOHOO” cheerleader, I left you with a question. Are you the “Type”?

Are you cheering yourself on towards your dreams and goals? Or are you still wading around in a negative, unproductive dream pool? If you have a group of motivators surrounding you, are you the loudest one in the room? Or is your voice still afraid to speak your future into existence? If you’re the latter, I want to share a few tools that I used to facilitate my own transformation and stay motivated and focused towards my goals.

These are strategies you can use to keep yourself encouraged when you’re cheering section is low. If they don’t work for you, no biggie. Create you own. There’s no cookie cutter formula to this thing. We’re all unique. What works for me may not work for you. As cheery as I am nowadays, I’m still a little frighten by the person with the perpetual smile on their face.

{Image via NORTHERN TOOL + EQUIPMENT}

My Tools

1. Have a vision, mission and plan. Make sure you write it down! This is important because you will need to go back to it, read through it, remember the early stages of development. This practice will encourage you to appreciate how much you have accomplished and how much your business has grown. I keep a copy of my 7-page plan taped to my bedroom mirror so when I wake up in the morning I know what I’m working towards and I’m focused!

2. Get an anthem! Sing it everyday until the words resonate in your spirit and you start to believe them, own them, shout them and confirm their power in your life. I’ve utilized several anthems throughout the various stages of my professional growth. It might seem a little silly but it’s amazing how a song can empower you when the words speak directly to your heart.

My current playlist includes: Donald Lawrence’s Law of Confession, B.O.B’s The Adventures of Bobby Ray, Anthony Hamilton’s The Point of It All and a long list of contemporary Christian songs to keep my spirit and head up. Whenever I find myself down or discouraged I simply put on my music, sing my anthems and keep it moving! For the past few months, it’s been all about B.O.B. and his Airplanes! That particular song even works for my kids!

3. Meditate! Your dream needs food and energy to grow. I spend time praying for and thinking about my plans, my activities, my relationships, and my future. I’m married to my dream! I firmly believe that my dedication and commitment are directly tied to my success. I expect the fulfillment of God’s blessings, favor, and promises in my life and over my work. I leave no remove for wallowing in failure or retreating in defeat. I am all in and it has made the biggest difference in my performance and my determination.

4. Assess and Appreciate! When I complete a small or large goal, learn a new skill, or create something new, I step back, assess and appreciate my work. I created that, WOW! It’s okay to WOW yourself. You should make it a point to impress yourself daily! I mean, you’re a gift, why not open yourself up and look inside!

5. Have some backup! Finally, have a least 2 people in your corner who serve as backup motivators and reality checkers. You’ll need anchors in your life to keep you grounded and accountable to your plan. My oldest brother is one of my coaches and he’s a phone call away. He encourages me to maintain balance and perspective, he invest his time and energy into my dream, and he helps me weed out all the unnecessary nonsense that’s thrown my way. If you step out into the world of entrepreneurship, you will find a crowd of people trying to sell you things you don’t need. Your coaches can help you make good calls!

My tool box continues to grow and yours should too. If you not already implementing some of these strategies in your daily life, try them out. Who knows, you might find one or two that work for you!

Are you the “Type”?

2011-06-08T07:00:00.033-04:00

I’m not going to lie; starting my own business was scary! There were so many “What Ifs” to consider. What if I crashed and burned? What if the business doesn’t take off? What if I wasted my investment…, my money, my time my energy, and my resources on an impossible dream? What if I just don’t have what it takes to succeed? On a daily basis, I find that there were and still are a mountain of “What Ifs” to overcome. As a sole entrepreneur, it is my responsibility to make sure each task and detail receives the proper attention so my business keeps moving forward as I envisioned. My success in this area requires something of me that I never expected going into this journey.

WOOHOO!!

I have turned into a CHEERLEADER!

Now, don’t get me wrong…, from high school to college to giving 3 years of my life to serve as a high school math teacher, I’ve been around my fair share of cheerleaders. I’ve shared the company of some of the most positive, enthusiastic, spirited gals around. A few actually tried to deposit some of their positivity and enthusiasm for life into mine, but I would simply dismiss it with my brand of realism by stating, “Hmmm, I am NOT the cheerleader type.”

{Image via Varsity.com}

Now really, how rude and arrogant of me to classify these ladies as a “type”. But seriously, I couldn’t get down with all the “Rah, Rah, Rah” and positivity oozing out of their pores. Instead, I took the road most travelled, the less spirited one! What’s different about me today? I realize I didn’t understand the role and purpose of the “Cheerleader” and why this individual is so necessary in our lives!

She encourages us and keeps us motivated even in the face of certain defeat. She roots us on and tells us, “You Can Do!”, “I Believe in You!” and “GO, GO, GO!” When we fall, she helps us back up. She encourages us to keep moving forward because the goal is still in reach. When others leave the game, frustrated and bored by our failed performance, our cheerleaders are still there sharing their smiles and telling us, “Don’t worry about it, you’ll get it next time.”

When I started out with my business, I had to be my own cheerleader. I learned how to encourage myself. All the people I expected to root for me and cheer me on, didn’t…the masses stayed at home and decided to watch from afar. A few actually told me I wasn’t ready, shouldn’t have started, and needed to wait my turn. These reactions hurt and surprised but they also motivated me to step up and out in faith. Then another unexpected transformation occurred. I changed. I learned how to push myself to greater excellence, cheer myself on the face of insurmountable opposition, look for and expect provisions to show up when I needed them. Now, I inspire others to do the same!

So whether it’s your business, your work, your family, your education or your dream, learn how to be your own BEST CHEERLEADER! Your older, wiser self will thank you for it one day! I have a few cheerleaders in my corner now and believe me I appreciate their support!!

Everyone needs a few good cheerleaders! Now…, this question is, are you the type?

Turn Your Hobby into a Profitable Business!

2011-06-03T04:59:00.014-04:00

The New Inspiration "TAG" Spotlight is on Kelli Oakleaf and Desert Soapstone!

We can find inspiration around every corner! The New Inspiration blog seeks to explore those corners and bring you uplifting, motivational content that will encourage your heart, mind and soul, and inspire you to pursue your dreams!

This week we’re introducing you to a small business that specializes in one of my favorite indulgences, all natural, handcrafted soap.

As a small business owner it is important for me to surround myself with individuals that walk along the same path. These connections enable me to continue to learn, grow and glean from their wisdom and expertise. I find networking with other women entrepreneurs strengthens my business practices and relationships, and keeps me focused on the steps required to work my plan. One afternoon, while connecting with other like-minded women in the Martha Stewart ~ Dreamers to Doers Community, I discovered Desert Soapstone, an online store that specializes in all natural, handcrafted soap products.

A Mom with Vision
Kelli Oakleaf is the phenomenal woman behind Desert Soapstone. She is a wife, mother, and business owner. Four years ago, after watching an episode of “Crafters Coast to Coast” on HGTV, Kelli decided to combine her artistic talents and passions and learn the art of soap making. Now that’s gumption! Kelli didn’t wait for an opportunity or job to fall into her lap after the birth of her first child, she created her own opportunity.

“I’ve always thought Proverbs 31 was a great biblical chapter. I mean, you have a woman that can do it all it seems; raising children, making clothes, buying a field and selling goods. I’m not much of a seamstress, but I have a lot of artists in my family. My grandmother painted amazing paintings and so I wanted to be able to incorporate my desire to be the EVERYTHING woman with my creative side.” ~Kelli Oakleaf, June 1, 2011

What I absolutely love about Desert Soapstone, outside of the wonderful products, is Kelli’s overall vision and mission for the business:

“Like many home based business ventures, our (my husband and I) vision for Desert Soapstone is eventually being [in a position] to create jobs for people all the while benefiting our lives and our community. Our mission is pretty basic; we want to create a healthy product that is marketed for its value, providing our customers with a safe and beautiful alternative to store bought body soap detergents. We believe in health first and beauty will follow.” ~Kelli Oakleaf

Experiencing it for Myself
Before introducing Desert Soapstone to you, I had to try it for myself. Needless to say, I was extremely impressed with Kelli’s product and customer service. I ordered the Pink Grapefruit Glycerin Soap on a Sunday and it shipped out on Wednesday. It was beautifully packaged and ready to present to anyone as the perfect gift. Don’t get me wrong, this was my treat and I enjoyed it! Desert Soapstone’s Pink Grapefruit soap has a rich, creamy, fragrant lather that feels smooth against the skin without leaving any harsh or oily residue. Plus the tri-color marble design of the soap is absolutely beautiful! My daughter loves soap too so I had to hide this one away so I could keep it all to myself! Check out a few items from Kelli’s product gallery below.

Challenges to Opportunities
Starting a business is not easy but it’s also not as difficult as most believe. All small business owners face challenges. The key to success is to push through all the obstacles and keep working your plan. When asked to describe her biggest challenge, Kelli stated,

“Money. Thankfully we started DS during the height of the building industry so we had a little extra to put into it. We didn’t want to take out a loan and have business debt off the bat. We just rolled everything we earned back into the business except for some donations to charity and whatnot. It has been slow going but worth it.”

Kelli and her husband have a created niche market for Desert Soapstone by customizing their products for special gift giving events like weddings. They've been able to turn a profit in this economy by providing an affordable, attractive, and healthy alternative to the spa or salon.

"Many people are struggling in this economy and indulgences have had to go by the wayside for many. We hope that our soap can become a friendly alternative that people will be able to purchase for a fraction of the cost of the spa and last 100 times as long."

Getting Started

Today, there are so many tools readily available to anyone who wants to start their own business. Do your research and start networking with other business leaders so that you have support along the way. Join communities that provide resources and tools for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Learn a new craft or skill. Combine your talents and experience to provide a service that others really need. Research your target market! This will help you understand and define how your product or service differs from your competitors and enable you to meet your customers' needs. You can always access free tools online to help cut down and manage costs. Kelli utilizes Etsy to establish her online presence and reach more customers. Blogger provides the platform for her blog, Desert Soapstone, which she uses to help market her business and communicate with her customers.

Do it for Yourself!
When asked to provide an encouraging word to women considering expanding their hobbies into business opportunities, Kelli provided this sound advice:

“Do it. My mother always tells me that owning your own business is like feast or famine. One week, you’ll be slammed with orders and the next dead, so you just learn to budget and save a little from the fat times to get through the lean. In other words, don’t let the economy or anything stand in your way. If you have an idea, you can sell it. There are over 300 million people in the United States. You are bound to find a market audience. That’s just thinking outside the box. Imagine if you can tap into the world? You can do it if you make a vow to yourself to stick to it.”

Kelli Oakleaf, we so appreciate you for being our New Inspiration this week and encouraging us to step out in faith and pursue our dreams! Thank you so much for your wonderful products and beautiful energy. You are our Proverbs 31 Woman!

Sincerely,

Derika Chia

Shop Desert Soapstone on Etsy 35% off all orders from now through June 9th. Use coupon code JUNESOAPSALE at checkout to receive discount. Let her know who sent you!

Catch up on their latest news and specials at Desert Soapstone Blog

Follow Desert Soapstone on Facebook

Reminders for Me

2011-06-02T16:19:00.001-04:00

A while back, I took a little walk through Downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia. I stumbled upon a little character, color, and charm as I browsed the different shops that lined Caroline Street. Toward the end of my

“Walk of Discovery”

I happened upon a gem, a treasure trove of soothing, relaxing, heath conscious products to encourage all the higher, peaceful experiences.

I purchased a few reminders to help keep me on the path, the journey towards a higher me. They were tiny little seeds, dark in color and round in form, unlike any I’d ever seen. I read about them in books, quotes and other literary works, yet here they were becoming simple reminders to encourage my growth and faith.

Simple little mustard seeds remind me of the power of small things!

Take a walk with me through the gardens of our lives. Let’s pull up the weeds, prepare the ground and plant a few mustard seeds!

“…I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." ~Matthew 17:20 (New International Version)

A Witness

2011-05-31T17:04:00.002-04:00

We are all witnesses.

Everyday we testify

about our beliefs, our values, our experiences,

our hopes and dreams,

our skepticisms,

our unbeliefs, our doubts

and

our fears.

Knowingly and unknowingly

we communicate agreement and disagreement

with our witness

as she binds herself

to our words, our decisions, our actions,

our past, present and future.

Even when we think

we are walking singly and silently through life

unassumingly trying

hard

not to relate to others

someone is always watching our witness,

Someone is affected by our walk

even when we are trying hard not to stride

at an effectual pace.

With each new day

we have an opportunity

to model, share, change, experience

and

create a new witness.

What will yours proclaim?

Thank You

2011-05-26T01:20:00.000-04:00

{Image via Project Wedding}

She’s by your side on your most important days

and all the ones in-between

laughing

crying

celebrating and sharing

your experiences as if they were her own

She puts up with your “crazies”

because she knows that little girl in you

is just as scared and uncertain

as the one in her

She knows you

like no other

and is still there

cheering you on

long after the crowd goes home

Her light of friendship

illuminates your brilliance

because you recognized her inner treasure

right from the beginning

you

decided then

You committed to relationship

that would stand the test of

cat fights

drunken nights

breakups

makeups

and

time

She is your best friend!

Let her know her light

keeps yours going

Say “Thank You”

with a Gift of NI!

The Within Pendant

My Life

2011-05-20T15:03:00.000-04:00

Each day, each moment is a open journey leading towards the development of character, spirit, wealth, faith and newness. Successes and failures do not mark the beginning or the end. They are simply more jewels weaving together to form the treasure that is My Life.

My Life Collection from The Gift of NI

My Life did not begin

the day my mother and father conceived me.

My life did not begin

the day the doctor received me.

My life did not begin

the day I graduated from the institution

though for a while…,

I believed it.

My life did not begin

the day I married him.

My life did not begin

the day I stepped into my Mother’s shoes

and gave birth to them.

My life did not begin,

the day relationship came to an end.

No…,

that was not the day my life began.

My Life began

when He spoke me into being.

Long before the earth and sky were planned

formed out of nothing

upon His command..,

my life began.

Therefore, my life is not

defined by what you, or I

can and cannot see.

Nor does some form of natural fate

define my reality.

Life was given to me

not as an finite, limited treasure

but with an out-pouring, scale breaking,

abundant measure!

My life exists in the realm of the unseen

travel by Faith to see what I see.

Passing It Forward

2011-05-18T16:56:00.001-04:00

Today, I was all set to introduce another new design

but had an unexpected surprise last night

that I’m absolutely tickled and thrilled to share with you.

It Begins!

Passing values, skills and talents forward to my children

is extremely important to me.

When I was young, I constantly watched my mother cook our family meals.

Watching her mix, knead, slice and combine ingredients to create a favorite dish

always held my attention and interest. In a big and bustling family, these moments

also served as one-on-one time for us. I learned to cook through observation.

My mother passed her creative cooking talent forward and I plan

to do the same when my children come of age.

To my surprise,

I discovered my daughter is already learning a new talent.

Last night, in the midst of a creative session, my daughter states,

“Mamma, I wanna make some jewelry.”

Now, she has made this statement many times before.

I’ve always encouraged her by saying,

“You will Baby, you will, one day.”

Last night, her creative energy was on high and her patience…low.

As she began to pick up a few extra beads hanging around my

workspace, I thoughtfully asked myself, “What’s the harm?”

At the end of our creative session,

my daughter

presents a complete design.

A pair of fabulous earrings.

I was shocked!

Mouth wide open!

The colors, the pattern, the creativity!

Initially, I thought I would just disassemble her little project

and return all the materials to my supply stock.

But my mind quickly changed when I saw her design.

She combined three different crystal bead colors and silver crimp bead

to form a unique, interesting pattern!

Each colored bead held the same position on each hoop!

I was really at a loss for word

(which is rare)

because I didn’t know how to

express my amazement!

WOW!

She’s only 3!

I, of course, finished her design by forming loops on each end of the wire

as these are definite KEEPERS!

Look out world, there’s a new Chia in town! {pronounced (Jzah)}

Haha, I won’t put her to work just yet!

Summer Sunday

2011-05-17T15:24:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning with forgiveness on my mind…

the kind you learn about in Sunday school,

the kind your Mamma and Daddy teach you is essential to building healthy relationships,

the kind that’s theoretically easy to discuss but difficult to transfer into real-life situations.

and so I found myself thinking about

word meaning-application mixed with a mustard seed of Faith

It’s like eating a warm slice of Peace

wearing sunlight

around your neck, wrist and waist

It’s like happy tears

falling down your face

at the sound of Good News.

It’s like a Summer Sunday morning

waking up early to a new day

dancing to the music it plays

It’s like eating warm scratch buttery biscuits

like only your Mamma can make

It’s like healing…

when something inside is screaming to be fixed

It’s like taking the good with the bad

and not having any mixed

feelings about it.

It’s like all the Unconditionals

having a “White Party-Summer Cookout-Playoff Sunday”

kind of day!

Summer Sunday

I’m here, you’re there

His light is everywhere!

No casting shadows

no judgments seats to test

Just forgiveness,

Summer Sunday,

the Unconditionals

and Throws,

you know…,

your Sunday’s best!

Did I tell you?

Mamma made her Cheesecake Peach Cobbler Pie

mmm, mmm, mmm

I’ll meet you at the corner of Gift and NI!

A Touch of NI

2011-05-16T16:50:00.004-04:00

My weekend was filled with shades of green

energizing my space, calming my relate

and expanding the hope and harmony

that remind me...

There is transformative power in covering my feet

Green

His gift to me

healing, growing, nurturing

it creates more

capacity within me

to bring forth the Unconditionals

Love

Forgiveness

Compassion

Free

Are you in search of the perfect accessories to take your "White Party" attire to the next level? Let us help you stand out in the crowd with a Touch of NI! Our fabulous collection of beautifully handcrafted Swarovski crystal jewelry will have everyone buzzing around you! This Green Appletini My Heart Crystal Pendant, Earring and Bracelet set is complete with everything you need to sparkle in your little white dress! So add a little bling to your brilliance! The Gift of NI.

How Would You…?

2011-05-03T06:19:00.015-04:00

Now that you have the wisdom of experience

the understanding of maturity and age

what would you say

if you could speak to your younger self?

How would you teach the soul

that does not yet understand the healing power of time

or appreciate the lessons of failure?

How would you encourage the heart

that cannot see the chair and desk as invitations

to sit down and learn

in the classroom of her mistakes?

How would you...

How would you comfort the spirit

when the heart has lost its way

and the naiveté of youth falsely proclaims

her heart will not make it through the pain?

How would instruct the mind

in the way of Ruth, Esther and Abigail

whose faith in I AM aligned and governed

their time, resources, purpose, thoughts, and actions

with the power of agreement?

How would you teach her the strength

and wisdom of guarding her tongue

because in it,

the power of life and death abide?

How would you...

What treasure would you give her

as a reminder that she is beautifully and wonderfully made,

she is uniquely purposed and set apart,

she is not common but of noble birth,

a treasure that produces wealth, vision and creative energy?

What treasure would you give her?

Derika Chia

She’s Simply Gorgeous!

2011-04-25T05:57:00.005-04:00

Can anyone match her beauty?

Her strength?

She survives the harsh winter without losing her identity

or embracing the bitterness of experience

While others cower and hide

she stands and weathers all the storms

that bring her character and beauty to their full fruition

Her Father loves her

and adorns her with the Grace of Heaven’s bounty

Her seed multiplies

Her territories extend without end

Our efforts to destroy her

only

highlight her power

for she erupts our madness

and starts again

She is simply Gorgeous

from beginning to…

beginning

for she has no end

This week I’m letting nature inspire me… I can’t wait to see what she teaches me!

Sincerely,

Derika Chia

Chocolate!

2011-02-22T18:03:00.009-05:00

I love chocolate! I don’t know what it is about chocolate that my body craves but when I do indulge, it’s like heaven. I considered creating a chocolate and gold piece for a while now and I finally had the opportunity. The layers of this piece came together so beautifully that I almost wish it was a piece of chocolate, caramel candy for my mouth to enjoy.
As I enjoy the art of crystal beading, I am amazed at the parallels I find between each handcrafted design and my own life. For example, if I were to describe my youth by a color, it would be chocolate. My childhood was rich with love, and I’ve learned to appreciate the bitter and the sweet. The second color highlights the growth I experienced as I matured and gained more responsibility. I lost some of my innocence and sweetness but my personality was still just as intense in color and vibrancy. I viewed the world through a different set of eyes and began to discover who I was outside of my family. The last color, is an embracement of the truth that I have come to appreciate with experience and age. This truth? God doesn’t need me, I need Him. With this revelation comes true enlightenment. These colors and periods represent the whole me.

So indulge me for just a minute as I share a bit of my revised poetry.
On becoming whole…
I’ve discovered the art of evolution

Change...,
is seldom expected
yet it occurs quite frequently
while life dances the balance of word/action

On becoming whole
I’ve discovered what is missing
is never known until
the existence of the Missing
is challenged by an unquenchable dependent need
often brought on by the sheer reality of things

On becoming whole
I’ve discovered a life-long journey
where embracing struggle
often leads to the completion
of some ethereal part of my being
the angels sing, heaven rejoices,
and God applauds over the elevation of my maturity
I sigh a bit of relief
over the art of it all
never fully understanding the composition
while each stroke was taking place

On becoming whole….
I’ve discovered the bitter and sweet…
of chocolate

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

Press Forward

2011-02-21T10:40:00.001-05:00

I don’t make a habit of walking or running backwards. I may, if and only if, it is a form of sport or exercise to strengthen some part of my physiology. I tend to question a person’s sanity if I witness him/her walking or attempting to run backwards down a busy pedestrian cross-way. I am actually frightened, when I see someone moving backwards when he should be moving forward. I can imagine myself implementing every possible safety maneuver I can in an effort to get out of this individual’s way and encourage a change of course to prevent self-inflicted injuries and harm to others.

Yet, I find it all too easy to move backwards psychologically by dwelling on my past. Don’t get me wrong, I love to celebrate my achievements, and I find great benefit in learning from my failures but when I dwell too long on what I’ve done or haven’t done, I am not moving forward. It is easy to get stuck on some issue in my past and close my heart to my future. It could be an offense committed against me or by me. It could be a personal or professional failure, or a success that I dwell on way too long that. One or the other have me feeling trapped and keeps me from striving for my next big win.

I am aware of my issues, even the ones I don't like to admit them to others. Unfortunately, I don't always recognize the paralysis they cause until it has already set it. The good news is that psychological paralysis is reversible. By continuously practicing principles of acknowledgement, acceptance, forgiveness and progression, I can from a state of stagnation to one of forward evolution. How do I put these principles into practice?

Acknowledge the offense and issues it caused me and others. Accept that is my responsibility to move forward regardless of what others decide. Next, purposely decide to forgive. The act of forgiveness can be multi-faceted. I may need to seek forgiveness or give it. This might take the form of a daily confession until it takes root in my heart. Last, commit to forward progression by implementing attitudes, behaviors and tasks that keep me psychologically and spiritually moving forward and away from my past. These emotional and mental exercises are not easy but necessary if I desire to end psychological paralysis. As they become part of my daily routine I find a mentally healthy person looking back at me in the mirror every morning. I absolutely love the person I see so I want her to be in her best health!

So as Paul declares, I am forgetting my past and looking forward to the future that is reserved for me through Christ Jesus! (Philippians 3:13-14, New Living Translation)

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

I’m in Love with…

2011-02-18T12:45:00.011-05:00

He shows up in the strangest places
not what I expect
but always the best
I am in love with him
because my heels forgot to run
the very first time we met
He is so much more than a need
I literally can’t breathe
eat
sleep
or do anything...
without him
He is a great mystery
enjoys playing hide and seek
to keep our love exciting

I go out of my way to search for him
looking above and beneath
the hunt drives me crazy
sometimes I start yelling and demanding
not a pretty fabric on me
but fear of his departure has me panicking
when I finally sit still enough to remember
His love...
still my beating red long enough
to turn my search inwardly
I find....
He never left my side

He simply waits for me to reach maturity
then reveals a new love mystery
and I am taken all over again
by my dear friend
He has seen my ugly outweigh my beauty
but smiles every time he sees my face
that’s Grace
I am in love with him
today, forever and always

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

Adore Me

2011-02-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

You give me a chance to speak…
to think
and say what I mean
even when my speech
does not meet the standards others set for me
you still adore me

How can one show such patience?

It truly baffles me
to think
that all this time you knew
exactly who I would be
and yet
you still adore me

He adores me!

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

Missing

2011-02-16T13:10:00.010-05:00

Was that you
that just walked pass me?
I felt the gentle pull of my rib
to your side

Were we joined at some past point?
Two hearts intertwined
Is this what we’ve both been missing?

Well let us fill it,
be it,
heal it,
that space above that bone cage
that holds the treasures of heaven and earth

Was that you
that just walked pass me?

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

Ah!

2011-02-15T18:49:00.004-05:00

Ah, how refreshing
to know I can take it all off
with you… I am myself
without all the tangles and fixings
that make others comfortable in my presence

Ahh, how enlightening
I have both days and growing pains
but you know them all
and love me still and in spite of

Ahhh, how wonderful
to see your face
and know my place in the world
is secure just because...
You love me
In more than 3 words, ways or syllables

Ahhhh!

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia

Cover, Uncover Me

2011-02-14T06:38:00.007-05:00

Like continuous years of day,
circling hours of minute,
special occasions of brief,
complete starts of finish

Like blooming gardens of rose,
perfect aromas of scent
blending colors of shade,
and French kisses of meant

Your love covers the whole of me

Like cherishing experiences of memory,
embracing futures of past
dreaming tomorrows from yesterday
and desiring eternities to last

Like discovering galaxies in a star
or arriving near by way of far
like seeing truths in a cloud of doubt
living by principles instead of clout

Your love uncovers the whole of me

Sincerely Yours,

Derika Chia