tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75869216613983609262024-02-20T18:18:03.651-05:00Get Lifted...encouraging and inspiring while having fun along the way!Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.comBlogger189125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-71470908971670381382017-01-25T16:14:00.000-05:002017-01-25T16:17:31.136-05:00Mid-Week Boost: 5 Lessons from the Puzzler<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YhCadqz0C3-kvfkL6CYJL5M3vYoNbJ0pfk9F5A5ROpirZsiqr92zZbi6UAagejTie3u1R0cQvtIKeCfNl-rUW4UQW-EJ8mVwV49sgAWNNimP-rRRPr4Iezmg7ZPbrVTqRdWouwLcOLQH/s640/blogger-image--1701203067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YhCadqz0C3-kvfkL6CYJL5M3vYoNbJ0pfk9F5A5ROpirZsiqr92zZbi6UAagejTie3u1R0cQvtIKeCfNl-rUW4UQW-EJ8mVwV49sgAWNNimP-rRRPr4Iezmg7ZPbrVTqRdWouwLcOLQH/s200/blogger-image--1701203067.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
For the last few weeks, I have been doing puzzles with my son <i>(and by doing puzzles I mean coaching him while he completes them on his own)</i>. I think that puzzling can teach my busy 5 year old a lot of valuable lessons. By me choosing to guide and support him through his own processes, he can have fun and learn along the way. In watching him complete 4 or 5 puzzles so far, I have realized that puzzling can not only teach kids valuable life skills but it has lessons but can help us adults too.</div>
<ol>
<li><i><b>Start small.</b> </i>In the beginning of whatever it is that you are trying to accomplish it may be overwhelming. Especially when you are looking at all the little pieces in front of you however, you should start with what you know and keep working from there. </li>
<li><i><b>Always keep the end in mind.</b> </i>Some times you have to step away from the little pieces and look at the big picture to remind yourself what it is that you are working towards. We can get lost in the details and day to day hustle and bustle so it is always important to take a step back and remind yourself where you are headed.</li>
<li><b style="font-style: italic;">If the first piece doesn't fit try another one. </b>Some times things look right but don't end up working out how we plan. That does not mean that we stop. We just try a different way. It make take three or even ten times but if you get it right that will be all that matters. Your breakthrough may just be waiting on the other side keep pressing on.</li>
<li><i><b>When you get frustrated, don't quit. </b></i>We all get frustrated at times but do not quit! Take a step back, take a deep breath, and start again. If you always get things right on the first try, you are not pushing yourself hard enough. You can seek out wise counsel but don't miss the lessons you can learn through the process by trying to take the easy way out.</li>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp44fLDQjuxWIOh-6kSLgLPKqLAQ5FExQzLOeaI8ZTzDLa1JzHrEEfWAV-PXFWsWQu5JMhjwKzjP4ivLRDMvCeviYfdcI7M5fJDicV_LtZDrtPHPdpHHxKIhp9fXSSgghdbXWYGF-Bat3n/s640/blogger-image-41093337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp44fLDQjuxWIOh-6kSLgLPKqLAQ5FExQzLOeaI8ZTzDLa1JzHrEEfWAV-PXFWsWQu5JMhjwKzjP4ivLRDMvCeviYfdcI7M5fJDicV_LtZDrtPHPdpHHxKIhp9fXSSgghdbXWYGF-Bat3n/s320/blogger-image-41093337.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying to get me to help him. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<li><i style="font-weight: bold;">It will take time but it is worth it in the end. </i>Nothing that is worth it happens overnight and if it does it most likely will not last. Beware of instant gratification. It is always far more rewarding to accomplish something that you have really invested your time in. </li>
</ol>
<div>
When is the last time you did a puzzle? Try one out and see how the discipline needed to complete a puzzle is really the discipline that we need in our lives overall.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJ7boSk6a1xFYknPnmQKSN8LOV3m21AXtSS6eVDyeGPYrtunIg2Z5SEok4gvJ0o_IQTtJLISY3KeamGjTSTINIi_TCeDz7F8O5XoiUCmykWz2eg61h6d12vLQ6KOx4zM5j6i9BGMX40QA/s640/blogger-image-1154766813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJ7boSk6a1xFYknPnmQKSN8LOV3m21AXtSS6eVDyeGPYrtunIg2Z5SEok4gvJ0o_IQTtJLISY3KeamGjTSTINIi_TCeDz7F8O5XoiUCmykWz2eg61h6d12vLQ6KOx4zM5j6i9BGMX40QA/s320/blogger-image-1154766813.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So proud of what he did on his own!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-1635581541960678562016-12-09T11:03:00.000-05:002016-12-09T11:03:16.007-05:00Good Good Father<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EYuJS5o_XLJnu4VYUL4UI1jGDZmk5cwTivPOPwUdu2LuWCQD80r0tgcOzYD8OT_enrH-0RR6osLc7SlDjhuq7v6NnQ0hRsewDBTSes8IoBFB3BfCHxHXo_n22UE3-R3hIgfBLLd_BH3q/s640/blogger-image-87219377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Have you ever asked God for something and he gave it to you but it didn't quite turn out how you expected? Fancy that. Well this is exactly what happened to me about 4 months after taking a leap of faith into a new job after leaving my previous job after 7 years. I mean the job was everything I had prayed for until it just took several unexpected turns. What I thought was my dream job was slowly becoming a nightmare (well parts of it). But God...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EYuJS5o_XLJnu4VYUL4UI1jGDZmk5cwTivPOPwUdu2LuWCQD80r0tgcOzYD8OT_enrH-0RR6osLc7SlDjhuq7v6NnQ0hRsewDBTSes8IoBFB3BfCHxHXo_n22UE3-R3hIgfBLLd_BH3q/s1600/blogger-image-87219377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EYuJS5o_XLJnu4VYUL4UI1jGDZmk5cwTivPOPwUdu2LuWCQD80r0tgcOzYD8OT_enrH-0RR6osLc7SlDjhuq7v6NnQ0hRsewDBTSes8IoBFB3BfCHxHXo_n22UE3-R3hIgfBLLd_BH3q/s200/blogger-image-87219377.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I reignited my prayer journaling and went to war. My church and small group have instilled in me the firm belief that battles are won through prayer. And as if God could feel the depths of my desperation---my personal need for a glimmer of hope, he blessed me with a promotion one week and two days later to be exact! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vE9w8sgvAPoGX7JdVQ5B6GVE9l1pQRNIxzYj518PuYmUQMJVkiX38OZHwQQzzQAOQw1bx9tF0Eq_rR05rDei0R3w_7Ojk5bzVoYIFtpq0ApN42pADsmznEN0kTlcH-rixFQIoIeWcwYF/s640/blogger-image--1186150700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vE9w8sgvAPoGX7JdVQ5B6GVE9l1pQRNIxzYj518PuYmUQMJVkiX38OZHwQQzzQAOQw1bx9tF0Eq_rR05rDei0R3w_7Ojk5bzVoYIFtpq0ApN42pADsmznEN0kTlcH-rixFQIoIeWcwYF/s200/blogger-image--1186150700.jpg" width="198" /></a>I have often been one to seek burning bush types of sign of the hand of God and I am grateful for a father that indulges his children. God wants to hear our cries, petitions, and especially our frustrations and hurts. There have been times this year where I have felt like a failure or embarrassment to God but his grace has been sufficient. His power has worked best in my weakness. I am praying and believing God for more miracles in 2017. I encourage you to do the same. Write down you prayer requests and keep track of your answered prayers so you have indisputable evidence of the hand of God in your life. Some prayers may be ongoing, such as those for the safety of our children and loved ones. Some prayers may take days, months, or decades to be answered but keeping track allows us to never forget what God has brought us from and help us reflect later when we fall into trails.<br />
<div>
<br />
He is a good, good father.</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qlsQrycKKsY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qlsQrycKKsY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-68944515045219819932016-11-28T11:20:00.002-05:002016-12-02T20:11:23.250-05:002016 Christmas Jams<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0FM3Y15Gs00ePrFBFYBYvX0K932Rkc5DJoevDHuSaJz2FhyphenhyphenswWfDAjT3pniA5q88roN0xaPYbyN-y7_zmYhlAwWyHqj4jxoeHQ0hP_gomfFZ8fgWgxOdGajZWW_jSOwRpkJ9OnuAto5p/s1600/christmas-music-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0FM3Y15Gs00ePrFBFYBYvX0K932Rkc5DJoevDHuSaJz2FhyphenhyphenswWfDAjT3pniA5q88roN0xaPYbyN-y7_zmYhlAwWyHqj4jxoeHQ0hP_gomfFZ8fgWgxOdGajZWW_jSOwRpkJ9OnuAto5p/s320/christmas-music-02.jpg" width="224" /></a>Hey y'all!!!! I am back. I know I know. I did it again. It has been way too long yet again. But it is my favorite time of the year and after talking about blogging with one of my dear friends, I have decided to put my self on a schedule so I can get back to lifting us all and what better way to jump back into the game than to write about Christmas music??<br />
<br />
With all the craziness going on in the world, I could write about a million different things but why not start the week off by getting into the holiday spirit. I love this time of joy, family, food, friends, and rejuvenation. I love picking out gifts my family will love, decorating the Christmas tree, and listening to Christmas music. I literally have 5+ versions of This Christmas on my playlist <i>(I will spare you with only one)</i>. A few years ago, my Top 10 Christmas song list was featured on <a href="http://www.blogher.com/most-wonderful-time-year-0" target="_blank">BlogHer</a> and while many of those songs are still my jams, I discovered a few new (or at least new to me) ones. This years list definitely an eclectic one. So without further adieu here is my list.<br />
<br />
Be lifted into the holiday spirit my friends!<br />
<br />
<b> Top 10 Christmas Jams for 2016 </b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. <b>Peabo Bryson</b>-<i>It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6Kque3poCrU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6Kque3poCrU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
2. <b>Anthony Hamilton</b>- <i>Spend Christmas With You</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6VKvDmLygLU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6VKvDmLygLU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
3. <b>Michael Buble</b>- <i>Holly Jolly Christmas</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/c-E16Udav7M/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c-E16Udav7M?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
4. <b>Train-</b><i>Shake up Christmas</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/J-8VCL4uSUc/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J-8VCL4uSUc?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<br />
5. <b>Mariah Carey</b>-<i>Santa Claus is Comin' to Town</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6ggxtK5Dg7Q/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6ggxtK5Dg7Q?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<i><br /></i>
6. <b>John Legend</b>-<i>Winter Wonderland </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GPbs_yqJRgM" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
7. <b>Donny Hathaway</b>-<i>This Christmas </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2oWTuxh5mVg" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
8. <b>Mary Mary</b>-<i>'Tis The Season (repeat but this song just gets you right in the spirit!)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l3eQs9HA1g4" width="560"></iframe>
<i><br /></i><br />
<br />
9. <b>Andra Day & Stevie Wonder</b>-<i>Someday at Christmas</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MaA7B9cu4kU" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
10. <b>Mary J. Blige & Jessie J.</b>-Do You Hear What I Hear?<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3LqRw-ynHNw" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-23746558508344434682016-07-08T00:10:00.000-04:002016-07-08T00:10:32.515-04:00Let Us Live<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7yuZ5OVlOwyGzBDTWCwWbug3QeV0MPIu5idjAOg3P_ZXp29KmoAtJi-SNAIDNzgOCm7l63oxfWUpJV59AQyN5VgBRmiookSmwniP6CNUgvyUCdA-0t1ZMFwjwV0tuB-yKXYn8vpvVwti/s640/blogger-image-1880626261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7yuZ5OVlOwyGzBDTWCwWbug3QeV0MPIu5idjAOg3P_ZXp29KmoAtJi-SNAIDNzgOCm7l63oxfWUpJV59AQyN5VgBRmiookSmwniP6CNUgvyUCdA-0t1ZMFwjwV0tuB-yKXYn8vpvVwti/s320/blogger-image-1880626261.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artist: Unknown</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I am mentally exhausted. I have been drafting this blog post since May and I fear how much more will need to be added to it if I continue to write any longer. My Blackness continues to weigh heavily on me. It is a glorious gift that I would NOT trade for anything in this world however, at times living in an America in which Donald Trump becomes the republican presidential nominee, it often feels like a sentence to perpetual despair. With the first two not guilty verdicts in the Freddie Gray trials, the images of a girl with rope burns around her neck after being invited to a "slumber party", tasteless tweets by the Baltimore Police Department following the SECOND not guilty verdict in the Freddie Gray trial, the most recent police execution of Alton Serling, and before I could even grief for one brother Philando Castile is murdered next--in front of his baby. There are countless other stories of Black people being wrongfully convicted and/or spending decades in jail while white men guilty of similar or lesser crimes get lesser sentences or are allowed to roam free. I am reminded far too often lately about how hard Black life can be.<br />
<div>
<br />
There are so many childless mothers and fathers and fatherless children for no reason other than being Black or making a mistake while Black. Since when are we allowed to KILL for a mistake---whenever there is in fact one that has been made? I think about myself and so many of my Howard University educated friends and no matter how many degrees or promotions we earn, no matter how many houses we buy, happy hours or brunches we attend, in spite of the fact that we pay our taxes and mind our own business, we still have yet to reap the benefit of merely being able to exist without the possibly of being gunned down for nothing more than living while Black. We cannot wear a sign that says I have a PhD or that I am just trying to get home safely to cook dinner for my family. My body literally tenses when I see police car or police lights flash behind me even if they are just passing me by. I fear the police more than any "gangster or drug dealer" I have ever encountered in the Black community.<br />
<br />
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLe1te7uYG7i-S1D1y7zAQdivxFEZrz99QTgTq6-j-IahNuklsQ-hxlM_469aI0OpIasV-YWnOUdNxo1Qtks2vqiabcrU2bXdnKl_VnvSRsSZOjX5ckyK8Ph6UxHPpYexFXino4EB0if4U/s1600/Black-History-Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLe1te7uYG7i-S1D1y7zAQdivxFEZrz99QTgTq6-j-IahNuklsQ-hxlM_469aI0OpIasV-YWnOUdNxo1Qtks2vqiabcrU2bXdnKl_VnvSRsSZOjX5ckyK8Ph6UxHPpYexFXino4EB0if4U/s320/Black-History-Year.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credit: Awesomelyluvvie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In 2016, Blackness has been displayed in so many glorious ways. We have seen <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2016/02/black-girl-got-juice.html" target="_blank">Black Girls Got The Juice</a> and the vivacious <a href="http://www.ebony.com/style/cover-story-the-curvy-confessionals#axzz422UQcTL0" target="_blank">curves of beautiful Black woman</a> being celebrated. We have witnessed President Obama and the First Lady continue to lead with class and slay for Black families all over this country. We have seen awesome musical performances laced with Blackness and Black pride. We have drank the<a href="http://www.awesomelyluvvie.com/2016/04/lemonade-beyonce.html" target="_blank"> sweet tea </a>of Beyonce's<i> Lemonade</i>. We have seen Harriet Tubman become the face of the twenty dollar bill and this fall, we will behold the opening of the <a href="http://nmaahc.si.edu/" target="_blank">National Museum of African American History and Culture</a> in our nations capitol. What a time to be Black in this country.<br />
<br />
However, despite all triumphs of our people and the privileges that are no longer alluding some of us, we continue to find our people at the end of a police officers gun. This has left me bewildered. I love Black people and so many proclaim to love us. Yet as we continue to see numerous white murderers walk free and even try to make a profit off of our extinguished lives, I am disheartened.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
I hurt for my son who will eventually have to navigate even more realms than me as a Black man in America. Eventually his cuteness will fade and he will be another Black man that people will fear and try to tear down. No amount of good manners and following the rules can protect him. He will never be afforded the opportunity to enjoy the freedoms or make the same mistakes as his white friends. I remember praying for him to be "light skinned" when I was pregnant with him in an attempt to protect him from at least some of the many of the injustices targeted towards our Black men. But that of course could save him. Teaching him to be respectful, feeding him organic foods, and making sure he does well in school cannot save him. I want to instill in him the ability to be free-thinking, assertive, and kind. Why can't that be enough for my Black boy? Every parent wants their child to be happy and healthy but as a Black mother, I think over and over about how I just want my child to remain ALIVE. A simple yet complex request in the America we live in today. </div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/debracartwrightart/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLe9G1HCxxhgPmjY0wEUkSN_XF4WZx3OyWpZblRFpYbh2d9fuXJgi0X7n0A6gAYxTOJw5ntH0yjDwSssdBjc9NfKOjXXeaPdLAMFz7YX6G_JsxQ1572oz9CFkfUa1Y592JSu3ExMPplLFi/s320/blogger-image-1703222582.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/debracartwrightart/" target="_blank">Artist: Debra Cartwright</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hate that Alton Serling's son will see his beloved father's murder on the internet repeatedly. Why do we have to record our injustices in order to be believed? I hate that no justice will most likely come to the Sterling family. I hate that other police officers won't stand up and say that this kind of behavior is unacceptable. Where are the white people that cheer us on and enjoy our performances? Where are the White people who use our exceptional skills to make their businesses thrive? Are they waiting for my son to be next? Or maybe one of my other friends sons? I don't want my baby to become a hashtag or a viral video. What about Philando Castile's daughter and girlfriend? Who will support the mental turmoil that they will now face because some police officer missed the day in police academy where he swore to protect and serve.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
How can we change this? I have been educated in the halls of Howard University and stood in the shadows as a student of many greats yet sometimes I feel helpless. Everything else seems trivial when my people are being hunted. I don't want to see an ad for what you are selling. I don't want to see you telling us all the ways our brother could have avoided death. If I did not have God in my life, I would live in a crippling fear. I kick myself everyday that I get in a rush and cannot pray over those I love before we head out of the door. Only God can give us the strength that we need to live in times such as these. I will continue to do the work on the ground working to help build strong Black communities and to empower Black families. That is how I will fight this fight.<br />
<br />
All in all though, I just desperately want my baby boy to be able to grow up.<br />
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://embed-ssl.ted.com/talks/clint_smith_how_to_raise_a_black_son_in_america.html" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-15182360945037672772016-06-20T12:20:00.002-04:002016-06-20T12:20:49.164-04:00Redemption<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8-Cejjg0UO7ezEp161vEzgAfUCFpe1SX412ww3gu47BpA0JygG6a-IVPDAd7boJY9F0QeGRCA1nPSHhoM-WZA5nTFpkp_w3zSBTFc_bg4sPwDOFernWK85vC-aMNcqjgUtWSGkJjo7Nb/s640/blogger-image-1371059344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="230" src="https://fightrankings.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/redemption.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Who doesn't love a good redemption story? As I come down from my high from the Beyonce concert <i>(you all know the depths of my love for her right?), </i>I continue to be in awe at how she just speaks to my soul in her music, through her business savvy, and through the Black Girl Magic that she sprinkles in places that we didn't even know we needed it. As a Black woman, a lover, a mother, and a working mom, you cannot leave one of her concert's and not feel empowered to overcome whatever is trying to hold you back. The other night she said one of her favorite songs from her new album was <i>All Night</i>; a song<i> </i>in which she sings about redemption.<br />
<br />
This season of my life has a lot of redemptive qualities. I was reading <a href="http://loladenotes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my girl's blog</a> the other day and it reminded me that I do not need to be overwhelmed by what I have to accomplish ahead of me but instead, I need to take time to remember where I started from and what I have accomplished. There were so many things that could have held me back but by the grace of God, they did not. There were so many things seemingly out of my grasp but I was able to surpass them all.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeWqn6jxS8QLUo7YPMwqDCn_DmnAigvnDRK96LMnqEYN6dC17DE2taDyfwDj09Ao4ayfOt7HhvaYpweVIPvlN5iQgmgO5hcIY4S68hfe-AYm7EqrihraJUELi4K7CrJliuuctMbXA2E13/s1600/Redemption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeWqn6jxS8QLUo7YPMwqDCn_DmnAigvnDRK96LMnqEYN6dC17DE2taDyfwDj09Ao4ayfOt7HhvaYpweVIPvlN5iQgmgO5hcIY4S68hfe-AYm7EqrihraJUELi4K7CrJliuuctMbXA2E13/s320/Redemption.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
<br />
So as we stand smack in the middle of 2016 here is my recap:<br />
<ul>
<li>2nd master's degree completed.</li>
<li>New job secured.</li>
<li>First paid therapy client.</li>
<li>9 years of being an educator completed. </li>
<li>Survived being the mom of a Pre-K student <i>(I really must write about being a working/teacher mom...very interesting experience with your own child in school and dealing with the micro-aggressions of white teachers).</i></li>
</ul>
I don't list these things to boast on myself but to boast on the goodness of God---our true redeemer. I have come a long way and have been able to do some really awesome things along the way but, sometimes I am quick to just move on to the next thing without savoring the moment. In fact, I actually almost listed out what else I would like to accomplish in 2016 but instead I will just revel in this moment.<br />
<br />
I am feeling this season of my life.<br />
<br />
My journey is truly a testament of God giving someone a vision and him equipping me with all that I need to execute it along the way.<br />
<br />
There may other things that I want to do in 2016 but I am mighty proud of what I have been able to do so far.<br />
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sillybeeschickadees.com/search?updated-min=2015-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&updated-max=2016-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&max-results=24" target="_blank"><img alt="Silly Bee's Chickadees: " height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/ac/2a/84/ac2a84a6eb1278cd18c7e30016dcd753.jpg" title="http://www.sillybeeschickadees.com/search?updated-min=2015-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&updated-max=2016-01-01T00:00:00-06:00&max-results=24" width="263" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-77069879156173510812016-06-02T16:25:00.001-04:002016-06-02T16:25:35.908-04:00Failure is Feedback<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0zujrANjpYPX2f1qkV3Oa4wb_-HGESmAUz6pNpeQjLw8p7r4vApFReSamLBxVLQK5Z876RDDZqp8rVshAvup6vo0OL53QYKMbA8pExuBQj5ayXGjlDM63sfGbF4AYfWSEp6sP2Y_yXch/s640/blogger-image--908402175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0zujrANjpYPX2f1qkV3Oa4wb_-HGESmAUz6pNpeQjLw8p7r4vApFReSamLBxVLQK5Z876RDDZqp8rVshAvup6vo0OL53QYKMbA8pExuBQj5ayXGjlDM63sfGbF4AYfWSEp6sP2Y_yXch/s200/blogger-image--908402175.jpg" width="178" /></a></span></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The idea of failure is often stifling to most people--especially to me. In my mind failure and the idea of failing use to be equated with a lack of true effort. Now, in my thirtieth first year of life, realize that failure is not so cut and dry. You can in fact give something your all and still fail and that failure may be just what you need in order to propel you into the next part of your journey.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXx38w1GEuDjokr1JxmWtjnxuwPezAemUmFceoqSR4-sPlFDBMe0f1ALii6OSXaAqCIb6Un0mFJC7tdEAQlW-JqV4_SWztqFGCxvk29zgP5A88wAUk8mGB57iHZNIVL4Tmr0FPPohMwKxc/s640/blogger-image--1117289807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXx38w1GEuDjokr1JxmWtjnxuwPezAemUmFceoqSR4-sPlFDBMe0f1ALii6OSXaAqCIb6Un0mFJC7tdEAQlW-JqV4_SWztqFGCxvk29zgP5A88wAUk8mGB57iHZNIVL4Tmr0FPPohMwKxc/s320/blogger-image--1117289807.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Failure is feedback.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Failure is probably the most constructive form feedback we can ever get. It forcibly guides us to pause and reflect. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Did we truly seek God in whatever it was we were trying to do in the first place? Did we ignore red flags that should have given us pause? Were we choosing to settle for the good and not pursue the great? Did we settle for less than Gods best to look good to other people?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My failures in 2015 have allowed me to find my voice, to learn the power of fasting, praying, and really seeking quietness so I can hear God's voice. I have learned to be more intentional with my time and my talents. Failures inspire creativity and develop our ability to be resilient. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My failures are proof that I am growing and striving to do better each day. Just because it's difficult doesn't mean it's not where we are supposed to be. God will remove our difficulties when we are ready. Some things we can only learn in the struggle.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">What have your failures taught you?</span><br />
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<i>
Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. (Ephesians 3:20 NLT)</i></div>
<div>
<i></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJR3uT8wVRe9n2Nf4Pn5EBq70wMkHukfH5vJDJxrA-W-M-PbHni3DTgDEg_75WNeUbpk3CNkumsjZQg3ke4mAuj-OlAcwrzUBWuNY5QiKczl_BpfiacpkaR3ji2FiIFF7gREosPkVktIx/s640/blogger-image--686378611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJR3uT8wVRe9n2Nf4Pn5EBq70wMkHukfH5vJDJxrA-W-M-PbHni3DTgDEg_75WNeUbpk3CNkumsjZQg3ke4mAuj-OlAcwrzUBWuNY5QiKczl_BpfiacpkaR3ji2FiIFF7gREosPkVktIx/s320/blogger-image--686378611.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-83821697953093748112016-05-18T10:01:00.001-04:002016-05-18T10:01:56.582-04:00Master GardenerWords have a way of filling us up when we need it the most. Sometimes they cannot leave our mouths but only come pouring out through our pens. Reading good poetry pierces the depths of my soul the same way a good gospel song sends chills down my spine in church on a Sunday morning. Beyonce's <i>Lemonade</i> has reignited my craving for good poetry. Poetry that speaks of Blackness, womanhood, love, life, heartache, and loss. Poetry that evokes tears, joy, fury, passion, and gives hope. I am grateful to personally know some really good poets.<br />
<br />
Here is a poem from one of my dear sister friends that is serving up all kinds of poetic goodness right now.<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFgu7hWV4hMaYhHcQngWc9xjquunulIvf4TWyOUZa5hwRFnQteh_9MarO-dwNHU3Iwdy3zOpXz9X4WwGxqw6awCxHci0idvpPs1fLph8YAyLKr5q9R-ThfRu3Z99KZ6WTzlU7n8xGLM2e/s640/blogger-image--871275340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFgu7hWV4hMaYhHcQngWc9xjquunulIvf4TWyOUZa5hwRFnQteh_9MarO-dwNHU3Iwdy3zOpXz9X4WwGxqw6awCxHci0idvpPs1fLph8YAyLKr5q9R-ThfRu3Z99KZ6WTzlU7n8xGLM2e/s320/blogger-image--871275340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whoa. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I told y'all she was good! Make sure you read that at least three times to let those words sink in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Know any other great woman poets we need to be reading right now? Leave their names, blogs, or books in the comments below. Be sure to come back for more poetry from @cecewriter and others in the coming weeks and months.</span></div>
<div>
<br />
Be lifted my friends. </div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-1076758937906938762016-05-04T10:24:00.001-04:002016-05-04T10:24:23.301-04:00Mid-Week Boost: Beautiful Transitions<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty: " height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/08/66/2c/08662c050f0f385a8f383d836f490583.jpg" width="265" /></div>
Contrary to the title, transitions are often far from beautiful. They are in fact often extremely painful. Childbirth, failure, heartbreak, and rejection--nothing glamorous about those. Beyonce's <i>Lemonade</i> displays the many sides of transitions in a way that is so real and applicable to almost any life transition.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Intuition. Anger. Apathy. Emptiness. Accountability. Reformation. Forgiveness. Resurrection. Hope. Redemption.</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It is perhaps<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> through the most painful transitions in my life that I have filtered through that very same spectrum in order to be led to a place of redemption, joy, and love. My sweet baby boy being born. Stepping out of my comfort zone as an educator to embark on a new career path as a family therapist. Taking the painful yet courageous step to end my marriage of almost nine years in order to not settle for less than God's best for me and in order to save myself from breaking to the core. Leaving my work family of over seven years to start a new career in which I will be able to do something that I am fully invested in every single day. These transitions have given</span> me a chance to stand on my own, find my voice, and speak up for what I really need to be whole. They have allowed me to start to move beyond a place of merely surviving to a place where I can actually thrive. I am reminded everyday that God does not allow for something to die without replacing it with something far greater than we could ever imagine.<br />
<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/f8/91/70/f89170cd420aefdb98f35361f15373ef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/f8/91/70/f89170cd420aefdb98f35361f15373ef.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
I have lost greatly and been hurt deeply in this season of transition; but now more than ever I am grateful. Being in my thirties has caused a major shift in how I see myself and what I want my legacy to be. I have long craved for something new that would allow me to find an ebb and flow of love, motherhood, work, and life. I may not be where I want to be yet but I am certainly on my way.<br />
<br />
<div>
Our problems---especially those we encounter during transitions are real but the promises of God are realer. This year has been a transformative year for me so far and I know that in the end it will be beautiful.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
How have the transitions in your life allowed something beautiful to born?<br />
<br />
Pause and take in that beauty.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkid9pxPmfE3QueCKmBv1PgKzgJhyphenhyphenBO3WWRN9DBavGJbBk53lz9qPpDatZBTRuquhmqyb1hsI4MipNjH_NLsivSwgJQw-05ZJ_t3uQ5mGJT6Ul7hq-eHm0Q2PmC97VIfUWuool7xfWbGMo/s640/blogger-image-472338126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkid9pxPmfE3QueCKmBv1PgKzgJhyphenhyphenBO3WWRN9DBavGJbBk53lz9qPpDatZBTRuquhmqyb1hsI4MipNjH_NLsivSwgJQw-05ZJ_t3uQ5mGJT6Ul7hq-eHm0Q2PmC97VIfUWuool7xfWbGMo/s320/blogger-image-472338126.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-50968817666638795462016-03-30T10:24:00.000-04:002016-03-30T10:31:52.942-04:00Extend Grace<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oYrVoQe5CSfIt-R15Qlbssp85Sk6JpHxbb9OZeAsG7CrFuF-rOAQCJoXDMG25-4tlIbBei_lfR9AIDItkPKUjYj_cpHILPTm2yriih4L2jATOHlCtaBujR0-bQD9HwqGBoHCvs_hpo72/s640/blogger-image--1650538210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oYrVoQe5CSfIt-R15Qlbssp85Sk6JpHxbb9OZeAsG7CrFuF-rOAQCJoXDMG25-4tlIbBei_lfR9AIDItkPKUjYj_cpHILPTm2yriih4L2jATOHlCtaBujR0-bQD9HwqGBoHCvs_hpo72/s200/blogger-image--1650538210.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
It always astonishes me how mean people can be. Maybe it is the sensitive Pisces side of me but I cannot wrap my head around why people make deliberate choices to do things that hurt and exclude others. Even in our current political climate and with all the terrible things happening throughout the country, unkindness still baffles me. I wrote about <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/12/so-you-want-to-be-rude.html" target="_blank">rude people</a> a while ago and it seems like not much has changed. Doesn't it take more energy to be mean? If we were all just a little nicer, our world would truly be a better place.<br />
<br />
A recent turn of events in my life have led me to be on the receiving end of meanness from people that I love dearly. This weekend I had enough. I was tempted to venture back to my hot tempered spicy mouth days and meet their meanness with the same and then I saw this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FxR0QLcwhUui5Z4IiyQpLJnfj_yMnJIc3hQNG0RaoSSDVAe3pqETxpCLOEDUTj_g4sD3ebTehew3sVMO8gAaUPdWZ9MzedhRqF2XsGX9MzPSLQSPu4mpMqXrztcARylfB5UZgh3GFxTL/s640/blogger-image-612725074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FxR0QLcwhUui5Z4IiyQpLJnfj_yMnJIc3hQNG0RaoSSDVAe3pqETxpCLOEDUTj_g4sD3ebTehew3sVMO8gAaUPdWZ9MzedhRqF2XsGX9MzPSLQSPu4mpMqXrztcARylfB5UZgh3GFxTL/s640/blogger-image-612725074.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Have you ever read something that just causes you to stop in your tracks? Like I know that God placed this right where I would see it so that I would pause before reacting. So often people project their own insecurities on to us. Rather than address their own issues or talk to you directly, you become the target. In my case, it took me a while to realize that I was in fact the target. What reason would people I love have to ignore me? I must confess my immediate response was an immense sadness for what I was losing and then anger because why would any one treat me this way? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Then I realized three things after reading Pastor Ryan's tweets: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
1. The reasons people are being mean have nothing to do with me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
2. God is ordering my steps even if others don't understand it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
3. God wants to stretch me through this process.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<br />
I need to shift my focus from what I am not getting to the work that God has given me to do. I am called to be a game changer. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Pastor Ryan said that just a few weeks ago (come on over to<a href="http://christchurchusa.org/" target="_blank"> Christ Church</a> one day---I promise it will bless you)! In his sermon on Palm Sunday, he talked about the fact that as a game changer, I am called to</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> give great grace. When we are hurt and offended and still show the love of God--we can really change the game. So t</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">oday, I choose to not be petty and extend the grace that God has given me---even when it is not asked for or deserved. Today I will not meet hate with hate but continue to show the love of God. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I need God's grace myself so instead I will pray for those that curse and turn their back on me. I will carry on in peace because I am the daughter of a King and I know he is directing my steps and has great things in store for me.</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I accept this challenge not because I am better than but because of what I am striving towards. I challenge all of us to just be nicer. Before we ignore a text or talk about someone behind their back, can we pray for them instead? You never know what someone is going through. Be the bridge that leads someone to Christ and not the hand that pushes them over the edge.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
Have you ever been stretched by God to show grace to someone you felt didn't deserve it?<br />
<br />
Join me in praying for whoever that might be in you life and watch God move!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFrf1IdufYp6LUZpZ6HqIqV3m6l7OfP_cEvcbvQN0SI3PqXqW4KhgQj18vXdYhX9rhBKFWocO8njn4SY5jHxIB0WILY_NfaIhD7aGxegMih9tSl5GhMenfNjONTgEKXlpRs2tTLWndWDt/s640/blogger-image--355317078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFrf1IdufYp6LUZpZ6HqIqV3m6l7OfP_cEvcbvQN0SI3PqXqW4KhgQj18vXdYhX9rhBKFWocO8njn4SY5jHxIB0WILY_NfaIhD7aGxegMih9tSl5GhMenfNjONTgEKXlpRs2tTLWndWDt/s320/blogger-image--355317078.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-2007588942077965092016-02-14T13:24:00.002-05:002016-02-14T13:24:21.537-05:00Spread The Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZPCNFHXABpp4vp3YU9qH2v4-4CPGpGFcCdKtnF6aQUuVbWIFKI9NOxZszjqKoYeJwe1YC7MlxufsZjeaDYabmPI5sOT3l07Y1_8X6bkC1CqgS4xwy9sMc9Rhuux5Nm30dmAoMX54pXTN/s640/blogger-image--1451465788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZPCNFHXABpp4vp3YU9qH2v4-4CPGpGFcCdKtnF6aQUuVbWIFKI9NOxZszjqKoYeJwe1YC7MlxufsZjeaDYabmPI5sOT3l07Y1_8X6bkC1CqgS4xwy9sMc9Rhuux5Nm30dmAoMX54pXTN/s320/blogger-image--1451465788.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I love holidays. Even if they are filled with overspending and overeating. We can have all good things in moderation right? Anyhow, holidays are gentle reminders throughout the year for us to pause, reflect, and celebrate. As we celebrate another Valentine's Day <i>(one of my Top 5 favorite holidays)</i>, I am reminded of the importance of love. Loving our families, our boos, and our friends. Love, when done well, is amazing. Love not only covers our imperfections and allows us to come as we are, but it also gives us hope and strength. L<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">ove-especially selfless, unconditional agape love, gives us a purpose greater than ourselves. </span> Love supports our dreams, comforts us in tough times, and can be our voice of reason.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love makes everything better. </div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbmaLTObpFHxfgmuAgwAkeYctgM4xOox555r7IzCbndQzU1ZxRZAlXNJk1qh7nZswlWLZ1LFwlMOj9X46lMsxWrOIq21BUsSSauUfV71YdjbHMks9hgn-p3sFTcj3rVAkTo7QGxNTuN4P/s640/blogger-image-2106011016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbmaLTObpFHxfgmuAgwAkeYctgM4xOox555r7IzCbndQzU1ZxRZAlXNJk1qh7nZswlWLZ1LFwlMOj9X46lMsxWrOIq21BUsSSauUfV71YdjbHMks9hgn-p3sFTcj3rVAkTo7QGxNTuN4P/s200/blogger-image-2106011016.jpg" width="160" /></a>The media constantly reminds us of all the hatred and violence around us. So how <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">can we do our part to spread more love? We can do this in so many simple yet intentional ways everyday by doing things like saying good morning, asking how someone is doing, or by helping someone out. We can all do just a little more to spread love. Our acts of love of our way of sharing Gods love throughout our various circles of influence. You </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">never know how one small gesture of love can change someone's day or life. We need to love---heavy. Remember that Mali Music song <i><a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/09/heavy-love.html" target="_blank">Heavy Love</a></i> I shared before?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I believe in the power of love. I am truly grateful to love and be loved. Let this Valentine's Day be a reminder to love and let yourself be loved. Do the things that make you feel loved and that allow you to spend time with people you love everyday. Share a cupcake, laugh at silly things, be mushy, let your child get that extra five minutes of whatever they've been begging for, Call someone unexpectedly, surprise someone with something you know they'll like and most importantly, take some time to love on yourself. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love has a pulse. Can you feel yours?</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Take the time to intentionally love <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">on someone today. You won't regret it.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJPuAnf0pnURoGGeVYCh6DjVnsdoOBzYgH_QKDPBDI_sOpIzSj2vxrgkv-JRNGJnnJoYL639qI-rurZalXykOOHpF_um2TeWtYMz8NUdV8_cbmSw6jhg2Vz4HhmSc98YuGn6okuWm_dXY/s640/blogger-image-358232761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJPuAnf0pnURoGGeVYCh6DjVnsdoOBzYgH_QKDPBDI_sOpIzSj2vxrgkv-JRNGJnnJoYL639qI-rurZalXykOOHpF_um2TeWtYMz8NUdV8_cbmSw6jhg2Vz4HhmSc98YuGn6okuWm_dXY/s200/blogger-image-358232761.jpg" width="188" /></a></span></div>
</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-66448403741822031392016-02-08T00:23:00.001-05:002016-02-08T18:01:47.400-05:00Black Girl Got The Juice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx6DTA_l7qSALUNMu6Nc1xOvURgSWS58PlgaOorlq16HGpDscDt5aAxlDVVfnCZu8HmXIbN_KN3p_jWj6k9olG-OoLHAViwtaZuPF0wkEmgvAxK2pWhc-ZsYDq3scrCJ65KDlSp79ii4j/s1600/IMG_0730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx6DTA_l7qSALUNMu6Nc1xOvURgSWS58PlgaOorlq16HGpDscDt5aAxlDVVfnCZu8HmXIbN_KN3p_jWj6k9olG-OoLHAViwtaZuPF0wkEmgvAxK2pWhc-ZsYDq3scrCJ65KDlSp79ii4j/s320/IMG_0730.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hey y'all! I'm BACK! I know, I know it's been far too long but I am so glad to be back on the heels of yet another glorious Beyonce performance. I have so many awesome things to share on this whirlwind of journey that I have been on this past year. I am getting my juice back--the juice that I never really left me but is coming out swinging in 2016. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">What is this juice I'm talking about? Glad you asked:</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.shopthewritefit.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyRl4uUd4PdTqfHU_di8uc_e7l-CxDJEd7j6EFr_4tmp1gvtV9tqByZEHYaY1H3HMKP5L_MogfPfUyBSyS420yIggYM_NkRF2SVE23-Ejm8fx0apz-G3rycEKBW0E42K1-e84u_TRISW4/s320/12640486_1022844011107518_6203664094659969220_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_1780129117"></span><span id="goog_1780129118"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This revolution for Black women and girls across the country comes from one of my favorite clothing designers Joshlyn Turner who is also the owner of <a href="http://www.shopthewritefit.com/" target="_blank">The Write Fit.</a> I've always looked at myself and my sister friends and recognized that there was something different in us. Something that propels us to move forward and impact the world around us in so many profound ways in spite of the many challenges that we may face. Sometimes our days are long and thankless. We experience stress, health issues, have setbacks, and often get very little sleep. However, by the grace of God, Black women across the country continue to come out on top because we have the juice. Joshlyn says that <i>Black Girls Got The Juice </i>is important to her because it is her--it is all of us. "With so much emphasis placed on our image, I constantly look in the mirror and tell myself that I am enough. You might ask where our juice comes from. Our ancestors gave us the juice. We been had it, we always will. We are the driving force of society. We are the leaders in entertainment, music, education, and fashion. Everything we touch is golden. And the purpose of this line is to show Black women, young and old, that the juice has and always will be the driving force of this world. Never forget."</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLppJbK6uT8k81rKLLjduMk-VgMOu0dY5cfIWOFw32tHV2CdyYF6Mgb8NreZilxPwZbrxotxFplzHKLPgXs6CmXsipQOW_w95_aa0rmgDhpHNoHZYJB4EiBN_4S6TjHuxRG9ZP9hx7D73l/s1600/IMG_0731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLppJbK6uT8k81rKLLjduMk-VgMOu0dY5cfIWOFw32tHV2CdyYF6Mgb8NreZilxPwZbrxotxFplzHKLPgXs6CmXsipQOW_w95_aa0rmgDhpHNoHZYJB4EiBN_4S6TjHuxRG9ZP9hx7D73l/s320/IMG_0731.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am a firm believer in uplifting, supporting, and celebrating sisters. So how can I not spread the word? What better message to remind us that even in the midst of chaos in the pursuit of our dreams, our work, school, and relationships--no one can take our juice from us. Let this juice that runs through our veins drive us to reach new heights in our whatever our calling is in 2016 and beyond. My grandparents gave me my juice and I am using it to do great things and to be a model for the Black girls in my life who need someone to remind them that they have it too in a world that often depicts them as less than. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Excellence is not exceptional; it is the Black girl standard.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As my boo Beyonce says dream it, work hard, and grind till we own it. We got the juice y'all!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Black Girls Got The Juice.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What gives you your juice? How are you using it this year?</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/gE1n0ituQds/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gE1n0ituQds?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-44584405965065496672015-05-29T10:09:00.001-04:002015-05-29T10:09:53.948-04:00Be the Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-DyM5TC-dLCJSlgxu6ewbLAW0ofDHTx84eGw4XA7cCMVZ86r3-7jb4jNbewc8G-c9XTkiR3IAZK-FkzCOhtiYf9JPvWgIKeUbA8R_sSwjwtoIuuQUgCGVyBSxmz4TvTShzC_oCyc8RL6/s640/blogger-image--1945500336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-DyM5TC-dLCJSlgxu6ewbLAW0ofDHTx84eGw4XA7cCMVZ86r3-7jb4jNbewc8G-c9XTkiR3IAZK-FkzCOhtiYf9JPvWgIKeUbA8R_sSwjwtoIuuQUgCGVyBSxmz4TvTShzC_oCyc8RL6/s320/blogger-image--1945500336.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
So this has been in draft from for far to long--YIKES!! Since turning 30, I have been quite reflective. While most people dread this milestone, I welcomed it. I saw turning 30 as a fresh start to a new era in my life. I want to commit this next season of my life to being the light. There is a lot of darkness in the world and I want to press forward by being the light through this blog, through my work, and through my life. I read this in my devotional a while ago. Indulge me as a belated birthday present will you? </div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here it is:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB715skDTzcjltmmtBrLgU8P74VHTnP5QlMhn4oiRY-NR0c73tWlOf_YxX_III8bI6k5FhwUcaITrpOg8ivp512SoY6zpumSeJFS0Ya8k_KgQ0mjSVOJW-T86RPpe_JW8CVBJ6OLm_EWw/s640/blogger-image-599525450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB715skDTzcjltmmtBrLgU8P74VHTnP5QlMhn4oiRY-NR0c73tWlOf_YxX_III8bI6k5FhwUcaITrpOg8ivp512SoY6zpumSeJFS0Ya8k_KgQ0mjSVOJW-T86RPpe_JW8CVBJ6OLm_EWw/s640/blogger-image-599525450.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
This devotional really challenged me to strive to be the light in particularly difficult situations. There will always be someone who could be doing a better job or someone who doesn't do what they are supposed to be doing. But instead of being critical in a way that is not constructive, I want to be the light. We all want Gods grace right? Even if I have to offer a kind word when I am at my whits end or when someone is working my last nerve it will honor God in spite of how I feel. As a 30 year old woman, I am in a whole new category. I am leading a new pack. I am now removed from the 20s and ready to help lead the charge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Be the light wherever you are. You never know why God put you in a particular situation or place. Will you let his light shine or will you dim it? I challenge you to be the light.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Be lifted my friends. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/78/d6/3f/78d63f05a26d816e9d25e7c9debcbd80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Journaling Bible. Be the Light of the World ~ Laura McCollough Bible Journaling" border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/78/d6/3f/78d63f05a26d816e9d25e7c9debcbd80.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-58799344277563738112015-03-03T18:10:00.000-05:002015-03-03T18:10:13.929-05:00Let Faith Lead the Way<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0Q8Y8P7Ypzps0B5PwHxhLFl0ES5abYNaMhqP2Tt0MISkXNVJJMCf06rJ7T4ebD5nldpnkhttbrkW9L44vqEE9j7nOBOGCObQmWRUNYt2f07BW6l5AuU5t99zFN2mqMq4DVegSqoheqwK/s1600/Hard+Things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0Q8Y8P7Ypzps0B5PwHxhLFl0ES5abYNaMhqP2Tt0MISkXNVJJMCf06rJ7T4ebD5nldpnkhttbrkW9L44vqEE9j7nOBOGCObQmWRUNYt2f07BW6l5AuU5t99zFN2mqMq4DVegSqoheqwK/s1600/Hard+Things.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a>Sometimes I think that having faith is almost too easy. I mean if we really trust God at his word, then that means everything is going to be fine no matter what. But what happens when things are not fine? In spite of our best laid plans, the things we desire and work hard for do not happen when or how we envisioned? Husbands and boos start acting crazy, that job we wanted gets passed on to someone else, that debt we have been working to payoff gets doubled by an unexpected expense, we've been living right and minding our own business but still can't catch a break...the list could go on.<br />
<br />
Faith should be easy but it takes work.<br />
<br />
I have been listening to Joel Osteen radio everyday for the past week or so and it is a continuous loop of messages of hope, faith, encouragement, and challenges to live better and walk in faith. I did not think I would be into talk radio because I love listening to music in the car but it has been amazing. It almost the opposite of what we do to ourselves some times--constantly replaying the messages of past hurts, bad breaks, and negativity instead of the truth of God's word.<br />
<br />
I encourage you today, the same way that I have been challenged this week, to play the word of God over and over in our head instead of letting your mind be the devils playground. The bible tells us to <i>"fix your thoughts on what it true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."</i><br />
<br />
I don't want you to feel that whatever your situation or past is does not matter because it does. We all have a story and a journey to going on. But know matter what is happening, ultimately we control our thoughts and we are equipped to win. Disappointments are inevitable but misery is totally optional.<br />
<br />
The next time negative thinking tries to bind you, ask yourself am I thinking about what is driving me crazy or what is praise worthy?<br />
<br />
Be lifted my friends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4GcW5TJMKh7EEhHy5qSwdxBKq1ZpEnulx72SBLsbP5vEWm8PKVwRjXCmFjLzpvW3FBbTqgA-1MfZm-Ltim36ftTNXxyJEljh9yNfhKz9FiXnpcVHZngVuScPwI9HP-8O8L4pTTGRjHNI/s1600/Finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4GcW5TJMKh7EEhHy5qSwdxBKq1ZpEnulx72SBLsbP5vEWm8PKVwRjXCmFjLzpvW3FBbTqgA-1MfZm-Ltim36ftTNXxyJEljh9yNfhKz9FiXnpcVHZngVuScPwI9HP-8O8L4pTTGRjHNI/s1600/Finish.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-81697413026675282712015-02-05T06:12:00.000-05:002015-02-05T06:12:50.678-05:00Hurrying Isn't Helpful<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz20dwA5UbnGC00EFoD-lVSTRFFPsW3dq7Z2GD5PvvPv1QSZu3BkPQSnmEpgRdAecwsEEwzIhin2zfGNoQ_b14j-i_3d9v_wy-OaPca9kJeo7O35xLNMPtMraBUVSN_Z-TsYzxhyphenhyphen3YUtR2/s1600/388b57aaae7ada42610b1132546d22fa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz20dwA5UbnGC00EFoD-lVSTRFFPsW3dq7Z2GD5PvvPv1QSZu3BkPQSnmEpgRdAecwsEEwzIhin2zfGNoQ_b14j-i_3d9v_wy-OaPca9kJeo7O35xLNMPtMraBUVSN_Z-TsYzxhyphenhyphen3YUtR2/s1600/388b57aaae7ada42610b1132546d22fa.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>I hate when I have to rush somewhere. Chaos does not suit me well. I always forget something, lose my car keys, stub a toe, and break into a sweat. Hurrying isn't helpful to me at all. I<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> actually move the fastest when I slow down and pace myself. Prepping things the night before so my mornings aren't chaotic does wonders for me. Setting a timer for the endless amounts of work I have to do helps me to not try to hurry work that I have time to do well.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I believe that this is the same in our lives. Trying to hurry or counting our chickens be for they hatch almost never turns out well but still we try it. We want that new car, that promotion, those shoes, or that vacation even if our bank accounts or credit are saying "have a seat ma'am". Nothing that we get in a hurry is for the long term. I think about the testimony of friends who have struggled through unemployment for years only to land their dream jobs or jobs that were better than the ones they had in the end. </span></div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OMDKGGnWIVwTfW_6QmlW1KnHbAJmZ3QggemjxjElm_cRggsGONRBdTwIs_KTw06ZdwH4NdmZLTadxJxmGfQppCZ5Ve52YJ3BHzOgQUBX4321-52v9x0p9IPaxR9Ne2Xl_zagorg9-nMr/s640/blogger-image-460168297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OMDKGGnWIVwTfW_6QmlW1KnHbAJmZ3QggemjxjElm_cRggsGONRBdTwIs_KTw06ZdwH4NdmZLTadxJxmGfQppCZ5Ve52YJ3BHzOgQUBX4321-52v9x0p9IPaxR9Ne2Xl_zagorg9-nMr/s320/blogger-image-460168297.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I say all that to say, take some time to slow it down. </span>Not all people like to slow down but sometimes doing so may be best. Don't let your mind race 100 miles per minute. You don't have to do everything right now. Set your goals, make your plans, and most importantly do the work and growth you need to reap your harvest but don't hurry the process. There is a reason you don't have whatever it is you want and possibly even need right now. In fact it may be very ugly and gloomy for you. However, I challenge you to not pray that your valley passes quickly, but to pray that God will guide you on your journey. Take note of what is happening around and within in you and most importantly enjoy what you have and are doing in the meantime. </div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Whatever it is, it will pass.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Hurrying isn't helpful.</span></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-42238279841243255642015-01-16T09:20:00.002-05:002015-01-16T09:20:58.784-05:00Patient Endurance<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjegKHaJSGcizW3ZzrDaJGAyQyhma3sdjQmq95DTog7Nsy-Z5ykD5kH6G7RLZg5vQb1ThNUwUNjQ1WwTXyjs0BP4AqtsfvjGBNL2rauOqNtgKD-T3PX-DrUSUGSWb0EDHzZZYdeQtLv17K0/s640/blogger-image--1517451639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjegKHaJSGcizW3ZzrDaJGAyQyhma3sdjQmq95DTog7Nsy-Z5ykD5kH6G7RLZg5vQb1ThNUwUNjQ1WwTXyjs0BP4AqtsfvjGBNL2rauOqNtgKD-T3PX-DrUSUGSWb0EDHzZZYdeQtLv17K0/s200/blogger-image--1517451639.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/202502333/fueled-by-jesus-and-coffee-mug-jesus-and">Somebody get me this mug!</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hey! I know it has been far too long. I have been drafting blog posts for months and never making the time to finish them. But this week, after much inspiration, I am finally compelled to write and post. Two of my devotional readings recently talked about patient endurance. I must admit that I am very, very impatient with some things. I partially blame the microwave/gotta have it right now culture that we live in but mostly on my lack of discipline in some areas--yes me the over achiever and recovering perfectionist lacks the discipline to follow through on some things *gasps*. Most of the time, when the "go getter" in me decides what it is that I want, I just go for it. But that hasn't helped me to reach all the personal goals that I have for myself in the past. My endurance for slow progress needs work because the most important things that I want to achieve will take time.<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"></span></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">As we stand at the start on another year, I decided to pull out my <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/12/2013-reflections.html">goals from last year</a> to see how I did. Just looking at this list quickly lets me know that I really need to work on being more patient and having some endurance. </span>I am often so busy some times that I am literally just trying to get through each day. I really want to be present in the moments that I'm in and always keep my end goals in mind. That means that as 2015 progresses, I will need to look at my goals multiple times throughout the year and make adjustments as needed. I also have some accountability partners in place this year which was a crucial step that I missed in 2014.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Here are some of my goals for 2015:</span></div>
<div>
<ol>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OwI5mTNoE3CCIVOtsYAla7ZXVhGlkyork6ocGOC7t6nsH45pIv22H-h-JFL579C-c6GAxXkg_uajX6CP3gLX7LQ9lNG1khMCgTc3PQFKa5cGI6vW3yQDczdHbnhAqy63KiMCpu6BN2EY/s640/blogger-image-538480204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OwI5mTNoE3CCIVOtsYAla7ZXVhGlkyork6ocGOC7t6nsH45pIv22H-h-JFL579C-c6GAxXkg_uajX6CP3gLX7LQ9lNG1khMCgTc3PQFKa5cGI6vW3yQDczdHbnhAqy63KiMCpu6BN2EY/s200/blogger-image-538480204.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li style="text-align: left;">Set up saving to be automatic once per month and not dip into it. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">See one Broadway show a season (4 times per year). </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Read at least 6 books. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Reduce credit card debt by 50%.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Increase my retirement contributions by $25.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Write at least 2 blogs per month. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Reduce my weight by 10%. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Take a swimming class.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Read the word every day (a scripture, a devotional, anything!!).</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Take piano lessons. </li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">My motto for 2015 is: <i>the journey is far more important than the destination.</i> I have a lot of places that I want to get beyond 2015. So, I want to have the patience and endurance to see things through and learn the lessons I need to learn so at the start of 2016, God willing, I will be further along the path that God has called me to. </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">When you get a chance, read 2 Peter 1:2-11. The first verse really moved me this week: <i>May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. ~</i>2 Peter 1:2 NLT</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">We are called to do great things. My pastor said on Sunday, it is always too soon to quit! So</span> lets working on having patient endurance in 2015 my friends--there are great things ahead.</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-22372551173964782172014-10-29T06:59:00.002-04:002014-10-29T06:59:57.707-04:00Mid-Week Boost: Strength and Endurance<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJyn2EVbtO9n611C1HjkNTSk1V-PIm2nI1MT7WIdYU0WTXyBpnIguUzbMDuUReSmJVdSdqF-EgdtqW9Mehi9-KmhHfTRFzOSVClbnPjLNs-PR0lNTNzdRoQfyCRjZrpwG6PSD8JBRPs4l/s1600/Success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJyn2EVbtO9n611C1HjkNTSk1V-PIm2nI1MT7WIdYU0WTXyBpnIguUzbMDuUReSmJVdSdqF-EgdtqW9Mehi9-KmhHfTRFzOSVClbnPjLNs-PR0lNTNzdRoQfyCRjZrpwG6PSD8JBRPs4l/s1600/Success.jpg" height="198" width="200" /></a><br />
This is a busy and hectic season in the life of a graduate student. As the semester is winding to a close, major assignments and projects are due and before we know it, it will be finals time. It would be great if the world around me would take a pause during this time but everything else is in high gear as well. I am often tempted by frustration to give up but instead I have challenged myself to pray for strength and endurance during this time. I know that what I am working towards right now has a purpose and is a part of the vision that God has showed me for my life. Therefore, while I would love for God to take something of my plate, what I really need is strength to stay the course so I can not only continue to get prepared to really live out my purpose but so that I know what this season of preparation is like so I can share it with someone else who may be discouraged. The road to success is not a straight path and people will try to knock you off it and distract you along the way. Things that would seem trivial to you under normal circumstances are now amplified tenfold because of the stress. I pray not only for my strength and for strength and patience for those around me. I often think that people should feel obligated and really want to support me in the work that I am trying to do but the reality is, it is probably taxing on them as well and at times my patience is too thin to acknowledge that fact. We all need strength and endurance for everything that we do so don't give up--pray for it.<br />
<br />
<div>
What do you do during busy and trying seasons to keep your eye on the prize? Let's talk about it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aOLU67aZriJD9P2GZS2VWSezmTmwTCLzeCWiBBnW_wcq2CIIjATulT0U4ubKcIciwDcaD3dBhmkeau7hAy3NXJTFL_6iumu3e87yT20t8gkWtdeJxM1Km_qSFtRvmRSfhif5HGPa1j8X/s1600/TheRoadAhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aOLU67aZriJD9P2GZS2VWSezmTmwTCLzeCWiBBnW_wcq2CIIjATulT0U4ubKcIciwDcaD3dBhmkeau7hAy3NXJTFL_6iumu3e87yT20t8gkWtdeJxM1Km_qSFtRvmRSfhif5HGPa1j8X/s1600/TheRoadAhead.jpg" height="400" width="186" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-43115417745795819242014-09-26T14:57:00.000-04:002014-09-26T14:57:32.024-04:00The Worst Can Make You Better<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjop5aHlsi5f_emfo7vBysFdEWaiLnXEtfhL3iCBpyUw21xA5xIR0vkUA8EJ1Ezv5TrLkj5aTlwgG4xJuxufEzhvTNlJ7frhvXqivob6mNQ3_23LR2TtnPRcvdH1yG3Y9O5GcfUiIjC7bzL/s640/blogger-image-632123896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjop5aHlsi5f_emfo7vBysFdEWaiLnXEtfhL3iCBpyUw21xA5xIR0vkUA8EJ1Ezv5TrLkj5aTlwgG4xJuxufEzhvTNlJ7frhvXqivob6mNQ3_23LR2TtnPRcvdH1yG3Y9O5GcfUiIjC7bzL/s320/blogger-image-632123896.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It truly fascinates me that on beautiful bright sunny days that in an instant, things can happen that change your life forever. You know how it is, you get up, eat breakfast, head to work, and press through your day as normal. You laugh with a few friends, get excited about upcoming plans and trips, and then BAM something happens that literally knocks the wind out of you. It could be an unexpected death, a medical diagnosis, job loss, a car accident, home break-in, or really anything. The world seemingly moves ahead as if your own world didn't just come crumbling down.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What do you do in this moment? Well at maybe you're in shock or disbelief. You might cry or get down right angry. Like really was that person in that much of a rush that they had to cut you off and make you get into a car accident. Or you feel like you have been an upstanding Christian and feel like you shouldn't have to endure such a hardship. You might think I can't afford to lose my job, husband, or _____________. We can not possibly live without _____________.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/9d/0c/83/9d0c836bd5a700045b04486b6b5239cb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="In this life you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome th world. -Jesus John 16:33" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/9d/0c/83/9d0c836bd5a700045b04486b6b5239cb.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">But in these moments, as gut-wrenching as they may be, are real opportunities for us to show what we are really about. Yes, you might be devastated, hurt, angry, or flat out pissed off but, especially, if you are a believer you can not wallow in it because we know who is in control. We are not exempt for tragedy or heart ache just because we are believers. NO ONE wants pain, sickness, cancer, devastation, or loss but it is the way of life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It is the way of life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">No one is exempt.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Resiliency is something that we talk about a lot in my family therapy program and at the school that I teach at. Resiliency is at the heart of our faith walk too. When you are operating in a faith zone, it's all or nothing. I believe God's word so everything will be all right even if something might temporarily blur that vision. It might be ugly at times but it will be all right--period.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjBsystW8bd9m9lL1_frTIEQcZOfhD4NZWR0V0GIJuAcrkYSqcEhv7J-DQC3ytYcgvfLE3G3lERpz0bmyMZk7CGK8D73V_vnEzh_KUY8PLiKAn3hXXo5afExhNIjThn1nroVvucY5fj9dZw3L_GTA73A5SJslHA_D2LLRofOOj7J6_UvuJPorLIYRPLi_wJ8QD8CPSM=" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Isaiah 66:9" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f6/b5/e7/f6b5e74eef334a1e4ee522cae0b1523a.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">God is the potter and we are the clay. Even the best potter has to smooth out the rough patches. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Live everyday as if it is going to be your last and love the people important to you while you can.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Tomorrow is not promised--that is a fact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Check out this song by Kierra Sheard <i>2nd Win</i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-Dih01irNy8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia-cache-ak0.pinimg.com%2F736x%2Ff6%2Fb5%2Fe7%2Ff6b5e74eef334a1e4ee522cae0b1523a.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjBsystW8bd9m9lL1_frTIEQcZOfhD4NZWR0V0GIJuAcrkYSqcEhv7J-DQC3ytYcgvfLE3G3lERpz0bmyMZk7CGK8D73V_vnEzh_KUY8PLiKAn3hXXo5afExhNIjThn1nroVvucY5fj9dZw3L_GTA73A5SJslHA_D2LLRofOOj7J6_UvuJPorLIYRPLi_wJ8QD8CPSM=" -->Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-64842754819908970902014-09-22T12:07:00.001-04:002016-02-14T13:20:06.387-05:00Heavy Love<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="true love quotes" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/91/8b/ca/918bcac24c634898c568bb330cc7e4ef.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></div>
<br />
Love is such a powerful thing. The song <i>Heavy Love</i> by Mali Music really has me thinking lately about love. Some people make love seem effortless but in reality it is hard work. I think generations before us haven't done the best job of telling us the real life struggles of long lasting love.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ugospel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/malimusic-e1412019977164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ugospel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/malimusic-e1412019977164.jpg" width="320" /></a>That said, people love and receive love differently. Some times the one you love the most may not being showing you love the way you want to receive it. What do you do? Sometimes you have to eat a slice of humble pie and show love in spite of (I am NOT good at this). But what happens when the love you show isn't received the way you want it to be received or is not reciprocated? I don't know about y'all but sometimes my patience is short so if I am not feeling the love, I move on to focusing other things. Obviously probably not the smartest idea.<br />
<br />
I think it is extremely important that we move beyond saying we love people and strive to put it into action--deliberate action each week (notice I didn't say everyday...I know the struggle).<br />
<br />
Falling in love is only half the battle. We have to strive to stay in love. How do you work to stay in love? Is long lasting love a thing of the past or does it still exist?<br />
<br />
Check out the song <i>Heavy Love</i> below and let me know your thoughts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/cmcVU551ERU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-40957418556276562482014-09-10T15:45:00.000-04:002014-09-10T21:21:14.521-04:00Mid-Week Boost: Back to School<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a4/24/37/a42437af9c095c0dcfd3927d51158702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="what faith can do" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a4/24/37/a42437af9c095c0dcfd3927d51158702.jpg" height="320" width="240"></a><i>You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.</i> (Isaiah 26:3, NIV)<br>
<br>
The beginning of a new school year is often a time of excitement for what is to come however; it can also be coupled with fear of the unknown or in some cases anxiety about what is known especially for us graduate students with clinical hours to get and thousands of pages to read and write. I found myself in one of these moments the other day. There is so much to be done but I have just struggled to logistically wrap my head around how it all will be done without the expense of my sanity and time with the people I love. For a moment, I wanted to give something up but I was quickly reminded that the seeds that God has planted in my heart are being cultivated now in order to be ready for the harvest. So, in the mean time I have to do the work--even if it is at 4:30 in the morning.<br>
<br>
I am extremely grateful that I have been blessed with an amazing support system to keep me encouraged and help me through this time. As we start the last quarter of the year, here is my prayer for all of us:<br>
<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1b/19/fe/1b19fe576f1271d83aae373b7f440785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="I am not alone" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1b/19/fe/1b19fe576f1271d83aae373b7f440785.jpg" height="200" width="166"></a><br>
<i><br></i>
<i>Dear Heavenly Father,</i><br>
<i><br></i>
<i>I come to you saying thank you. Thank you for the time to relax and rejuvenate. Thank you for the time to reconnect with family and for traveling grace. I ask that you cover everyone at the start of this school year-teachers, students, parents, and administrators. Help us to keep your vision clear in our hearts and minds especially when times gets difficult. Cover our children Lord. I pray that they are kept safe and feel your love while they are in school. Help us to use every opportunity to parent, teach, lead, serve, and to learn to bring glory to your kingdom. Let our challenges be opportunities to show your great works. With you we can do hard things. In Jesus name I pray, amen. </i>Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-37690727431795160822014-07-23T08:56:00.000-04:002014-07-23T08:56:00.420-04:00Summer Love<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmRrvljXjA1b-VhlDOQS2sGZyiW_am1sElGyW_-0bQFgTNZ9lffDXPvGJ9FNeQPqrf-wGwEJ0EfLHjWEOulKLiRdIl7rOjSPB9T4GCgPwpb9MS_5gHsjz-Wch2-egfpsBGrwVmkNJiiww/s1600/Sunshine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmRrvljXjA1b-VhlDOQS2sGZyiW_am1sElGyW_-0bQFgTNZ9lffDXPvGJ9FNeQPqrf-wGwEJ0EfLHjWEOulKLiRdIl7rOjSPB9T4GCgPwpb9MS_5gHsjz-Wch2-egfpsBGrwVmkNJiiww/s1600/Sunshine.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Does anyone else feel like they are a different person in the summer? Maybe it's because I am a teacher but summer just does something to me. Unscheduled time gives me the freedom to do or not do whatever I want makes my soul happy. For example, there have been days that I have been glued to the couch for hours just writing, listening to music, and chatting with some friends. I was so relaxed one day, that I didn't even want to break my flow to get up and make lunch! I just love summer. It is so renewing and refreshing.<br />
<br />
What do you love about summer?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Here are 10 things I am excited about this summer:</b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ol>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_vE8XJkRFpn1fpEj7rMDo_GFOorLWBAUNuINFCnVu93fntKEGE_lvST3h0HllmojSTz3ZEmHiJIjsjgct2ptlJF8F0W_IgtGK1GkgwFSp50jaN8uvubu2ZZSkR7MhEY8XS1tYfLAp0uC/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_vE8XJkRFpn1fpEj7rMDo_GFOorLWBAUNuINFCnVu93fntKEGE_lvST3h0HllmojSTz3ZEmHiJIjsjgct2ptlJF8F0W_IgtGK1GkgwFSp50jaN8uvubu2ZZSkR7MhEY8XS1tYfLAp0uC/s1600/image_1.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></a>
<li>No work and no grad school</li>
<li>State Fair Food</li>
<li>My summer reading list <i>(that still includes a book from last summer but who's judging??)</i></li>
<li>Trying new recipes (<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/barbara637/things-ive-actually-tried/" target="_blank">follow me here to taste along with me!</a>)</li>
<li>Hanging with my family and friends!</li>
<li>Florida Trip </li>
<li>New music</li>
<li>On the Run Tour</li>
<li>New School/Office Supplies</li>
<li>Try a few new/different things <i>(so far this has included a trip to 106 & Park and trying different restaurants)</i></li>
</ol>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
Here one summer song and video I am currently loving: <i>Say Yes</i> by Michelle Williams featuring Beyonce & Kelly Rowland. Did you know this video was shot a few blocks from my house?!?!?! Where am I when Beyonce is just cruising through my neighborhood???<br />
<br />
Hope your summer is off to a great start!<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2MZxf-lQD-o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-32786698980063428972014-07-01T00:18:00.003-04:002014-07-01T00:18:38.532-04:00Get Lifted Turns 1!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOB5DZmKWdJ8Hmd_UPimkKMQKwoFbH-jFfOHO98vJWUyk7eDA0kvy3K3_SDPswzKp_KWA5MhcbkrTTPYqkPfOSiYna29Nr6zedipabIARIALtTHLQWI8aftGKLPPHzPf_tYKf4_iUgrCIw/s640/blogger-image--1515104812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOB5DZmKWdJ8Hmd_UPimkKMQKwoFbH-jFfOHO98vJWUyk7eDA0kvy3K3_SDPswzKp_KWA5MhcbkrTTPYqkPfOSiYna29Nr6zedipabIARIALtTHLQWI8aftGKLPPHzPf_tYKf4_iUgrCIw/s200/blogger-image--1515104812.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Can you believe it's been a year since I started this blog?!?! Where did the time go. So many great things have happened during this year. 172 posts later, here we are. I am truly grateful to have you all on this journey with me. What have been some of your favorite <i>Get Lifted</i> moments? What are some things you'd like to see in<i> </i>2014-2015? Let me know and tell a friend to join us as we grow bigger and better in year 2!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWhaCM8wrdh1vAH01ZdgOh40Lk9xp0v7gzTJYQpRakUzjoTkaRQcbi1dwmKMSJkageNHaD_YPTSIw0fItBNDqGG5Bbmf7NEeT5FsPG3cW6qfzNv2US4beWipxZ8Ujeh84pVBTJEXBLF0n/s640/blogger-image-1399960166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWhaCM8wrdh1vAH01ZdgOh40Lk9xp0v7gzTJYQpRakUzjoTkaRQcbi1dwmKMSJkageNHaD_YPTSIw0fItBNDqGG5Bbmf7NEeT5FsPG3cW6qfzNv2US4beWipxZ8Ujeh84pVBTJEXBLF0n/s320/blogger-image-1399960166.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are my top 10 favorite posts from <i>Get Lifted </i>2013-2014:</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/09/time-to-let-go.html" target="_blank">Time to Let Go</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/05/live-little.html" target="_blank">Live a Little</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/04/it-is-finished.html" target="_blank">It is Finished </a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4.<a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/01/slow-and-steady-wins.html" target="_blank"> Slow and Steady Wins </a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/01/fake-out.html" target="_blank">Fake Out</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/12/so-you-want-to-be-rude.html" target="_blank">So You Want to be Rude</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/10/dont-judge-me-and-i-wont-judge-you.html" target="_blank">Don't Judge Me and I Won't Judge You</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/12/praise-out-loud.html" target="_blank">Praise Out Loud</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">9. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/04/being-comfortable-with-uncomfortable.html" target="_blank">Being Comfortable with the Uncomfortable</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">10.<a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/04/mid-week-boost-working-right.html" target="_blank"> Mid-Week Boost: Working Right</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Honorable Mentions:</span></b><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">1. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/11/work-life-unbalance-part-duex.html">Work Life Unbalance Part Duex</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">2.<a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/10/send-out-blessings.html" target="_blank">Send Out Blessings</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">3. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/12/imperfectly-perfect.html" target="_blank">Imperfectly Perfect</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">4. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/07/i-believe-in-jesus-and-sometimes-chinese.html" target="_blank">I Believe in Jesus and Some Times the Chinese</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">5. <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/11/be-cared-for.html" target="_blank">Be Cared For</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-Nj4EUj2HZwnQgTo6Ly_hTjs2Eehm4hGjTOexxDFYSJvsaO-ZIzcdI6-uZhqxz2RE0aLKVLoGbQBbwzv7S5TVVcj79bTZ96KE0HL85Rmls7SrJqnW9sWGSA6hk7FPQdVK66bxGoeri4w/s640/blogger-image-1464306267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-Nj4EUj2HZwnQgTo6Ly_hTjs2Eehm4hGjTOexxDFYSJvsaO-ZIzcdI6-uZhqxz2RE0aLKVLoGbQBbwzv7S5TVVcj79bTZ96KE0HL85Rmls7SrJqnW9sWGSA6hk7FPQdVK66bxGoeri4w/s200/blogger-image-1464306267.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-80700353108729078992014-06-25T14:48:00.001-04:002014-06-25T14:48:19.965-04:00We Can!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5ocrIfRHPg_sxmcRQ_kLO01vwGCgILqG_rKyaDyHojurRtS43qKqO2XkkHvNfhHavHvOvR134EvP4x9fozLveoO-w1S3qPBy3Ymk4Wz7VvRltXWbwHPl7X_0jOD-VA-IWXLGkwIFt_uW/s1600/0dad80f1969fcf3a06437965bdf7ecff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5ocrIfRHPg_sxmcRQ_kLO01vwGCgILqG_rKyaDyHojurRtS43qKqO2XkkHvNfhHavHvOvR134EvP4x9fozLveoO-w1S3qPBy3Ymk4Wz7VvRltXWbwHPl7X_0jOD-VA-IWXLGkwIFt_uW/s1600/0dad80f1969fcf3a06437965bdf7ecff.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hey hey there! I know it has been a minute but a girl has been busy like you wouldn't even believe. The 2013-2014 school year has ended along with all the different end of the year tasks that come along with closing out a school year. I worked on a huge presentation that I am giving over the summer (it's still not completely finished but don't tell anyone). I painted the town red with one of my nieces and even more importantly, I just finished my summer grad school class so my first year of grad school is officially over now---whew!!!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_SSTxV8iyKgQG0OenxrwPhoRr3KtzaoeCWTCiQuKCLX0YjU8YqufqUaXSNmFauiIjvf2FdK6-60JiXlL6FOVAf3V6XEYEcpNJkzvv7ogstNoT0svp3UEKaZIlvyChmtWorKazHQNeTuX/s1600/68c813ff743152f7d0e81e0b6616720e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_SSTxV8iyKgQG0OenxrwPhoRr3KtzaoeCWTCiQuKCLX0YjU8YqufqUaXSNmFauiIjvf2FdK6-60JiXlL6FOVAf3V6XEYEcpNJkzvv7ogstNoT0svp3UEKaZIlvyChmtWorKazHQNeTuX/s1600/68c813ff743152f7d0e81e0b6616720e.jpg" height="317" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John 13:7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To be quite honest when I walked out of my final exam for my summer class last night, I really felt on top of the world. As the wind hit my face when I walked out of the door, I truly felt that I was walking right on the path that God had laid out for me. Sure it has been ROUGH--exams and research projects in the midst of busy seasons at work and toddlers who are bright-eyed and bushy tailed at<br />
4AM even though you have a full day ahead of you. But overall, I am proud that I was bold enough to blaze a path for myself in uncharted territories in order to start the process of making a major career shift. I really stepped out on a faith towards something that was completely foreign to me while managing trying to get closer to God, being a wife, mommy, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend (and even being in a book club!). But by God's grace, I did it and did it well.<br />
<br />
I say all this to say that we can do WHATEVER we truly put our hearts and minds to. We may not be able to follow <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/04/growing-pains.html" target="_blank">a carefully laid roadmap</a> all of the time but we can do so many amazing things. How great it is to operate in a faith zone! I don't need to know exactly what the end is going to look like but I know that it will be great!<br />
<br />
This song really sums up how I feel right now and it's just an all around feel good song period so enjoy.<br />
<br />
Press on my friends. We can do it!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/bg1sT4ILG0w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<span id="goog_1984134825"></span><span id="goog_1984134826"></span><br />Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-31151372649582755772014-06-09T12:40:00.000-04:002014-06-09T12:40:30.868-04:00Faith in Action<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QkE9I3CMeqoSWMXmDhRIT4dQdi6An-PlliXDna4YEHWKYOS16SijsdmlHB_73pT9JlkEbPOuec2-9q3VAwHpKPhqEeczNGQOLlO0JscaWSiSz0OYvKBQM_plvsz5OmwwPzGk-TsgJcQ8/s640/blogger-image--1484329193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QkE9I3CMeqoSWMXmDhRIT4dQdi6An-PlliXDna4YEHWKYOS16SijsdmlHB_73pT9JlkEbPOuec2-9q3VAwHpKPhqEeczNGQOLlO0JscaWSiSz0OYvKBQM_plvsz5OmwwPzGk-TsgJcQ8/s200/blogger-image--1484329193.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Yesterday was a Sunday in which I didn't particularly want to get up to go to church. Sleep has been scarce these last few days and my body is sore from my first spinning class. But like most mornings when I have these feelings, I tugged along and made it to church. But, as if I wasn't having enough of my own issues, my sweet baby boy succumbed to his toddler ways that lead to even more annoyance on this holy day--even me getting peed on in church--the joys of potty training.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Nonetheless boy did I hear a word from the Lord. The sermon was titled <i>Let Go and Let God</i> preached by our special guest Rev. Robert A. Diggs, Senior Pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia. The key verse from this sermon was one of the last seven words uttered from Jesus when he was on the cross: <i>And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. (Luke 23:46 KJV)</i></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Rev. Diggs talked a lot about the different meanings of the word commend. Here is what commend means from the Merriam Webster Dictionary:</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To entrust for care or preservation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To recommend as worthy of confidence or notice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To mention with approbation <i>(approbation meaning approval).</i></span></li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-0sVTqmLpR3NnckWpdMx4UJtrJhe-dqdobMl3PVzZZ8SEuZUDCZlytF7WP5Q80Xt10b1ZSbHQPAh__v5BqiNuUxJbqlNnlRkQhXRdloJDFPuEFXbFDjc8MAFURTVSi2fvCLyKqYVQQ1o/s640/blogger-image--2079665751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-0sVTqmLpR3NnckWpdMx4UJtrJhe-dqdobMl3PVzZZ8SEuZUDCZlytF7WP5Q80Xt10b1ZSbHQPAh__v5BqiNuUxJbqlNnlRkQhXRdloJDFPuEFXbFDjc8MAFURTVSi2fvCLyKqYVQQ1o/s200/blogger-image--2079665751.jpg" width="160" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Now I have talked about <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/09/time-to-let-go.html" target="_blank">letting go</a> before but this sermon really brought a whole new meaning to the phrase <i>let go and let God </i>for me. Like if we are really commending our spirit, our life, and our plans to God then that means he has control in a way that transcends so many of the trivial things we experience on the day to day. We will still have times when we are hurt and disappointed. However, if we truly commend our spirit to God--man we can take over our own little corner of the world <i>(emphasis on your own little corner not mine or another sistahs--more on staying in your lane later)</i>. This further illustrates why we can not hold on to everything. We have to let some stuff go--some extra weight, some old habits, some people, some mindsets, some jobs, whatever it is that is holding us back from or getting in the way of our God given assignment <i>(even if we are still working out exactly what that is).</i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Reverend also emphasized that when the Lord has freed us from whatever it is that was holding us back and empowered us to do whatever it is we are supposed to do, we should not let anyone else tell us differently. I believe in growth and transformation but as I mentioned before, as trivial as it may sound, we live in a world full of haters and back-stabbers. People will try to make you feel like you aren't enough. They will make you feel like you owe them something but the reality is we owe it all to God and God alone. I am all about constructive criticism but some people are just plain nasty. So <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/05/be-strong.html" target="_blank">be strong my friends</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhTK9x-WcObFSWD16-H8SoFTZZbfhTxO8DlKRjCf7M9HxlRn1qrhz-wDD18mazviQFC4yXP8lwaLPEURbVTP9_0PIlQ34lcDRHbwnuRbxPDi1AgtGDP8qvNVRGNLG66t5X8RmS5sW_-PF/s640/blogger-image-1455117972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhTK9x-WcObFSWD16-H8SoFTZZbfhTxO8DlKRjCf7M9HxlRn1qrhz-wDD18mazviQFC4yXP8lwaLPEURbVTP9_0PIlQ34lcDRHbwnuRbxPDi1AgtGDP8qvNVRGNLG66t5X8RmS5sW_-PF/s200/blogger-image-1455117972.jpg" width="199" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My prayer today is this: <i>Father into thy hands I commend my spirit. Thank you so much for all that you given me. Thank you for continuing to grow and develop me. Please continue to guide me on a path that allows me to continue to do your will. Teach me how to act in love even in the most difficult times. Help me to remain humble. Show me how to lead with compassion. Give me strength when my body is weak. Give me hope when there is despair. Watch over those near and dear to my heart and bless them according to your will. Bless those who curse me Lord. Help us all to be better and do better so that our actions are pleasing in your sight. Let us be blessed Father so we can be a blessing to others. These and all things I ask in your son Jesus's name, Amen.</i></span></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-80616806472304943772014-06-05T10:01:00.001-04:002014-06-05T10:06:38.265-04:00Feel Good<i></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQqJ9LMtdc9LOsl_zsdzWyDuDfGqa7OP4ynW0tUT4mpKe-NMxdeJDZ8f9OgbnvZuW-A34X4GbxXDNf1xmakdHpoI0WPcJOAOlAXnEICfMO6f8W3rWmsdtOlSqrTrlZdwWIrI4Fxr4PwJo/s640/blogger-image-919670698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQqJ9LMtdc9LOsl_zsdzWyDuDfGqa7OP4ynW0tUT4mpKe-NMxdeJDZ8f9OgbnvZuW-A34X4GbxXDNf1xmakdHpoI0WPcJOAOlAXnEICfMO6f8W3rWmsdtOlSqrTrlZdwWIrI4Fxr4PwJo/s400/blogger-image-919670698.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I saw these on my walk Monday morning. How can you quit when you see this on your first walk in a while!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This week and probably next week will be filled with a whirlwind of end of year school activities and paperwork at work. But I am excited because I have really gotten back to being serious with my <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/01/back-to-grind.html" target="_blank">weight loss and exercise habits</a>. It never ceases to amaze me how hard it is to lose weight but how easy it is to gain if you aren't paying attention. It has been challenging to get up at 5:30AM to get a walk in the mornings but it really makes me feel better. <i>Now only if it would NOT rain. </i><br />
<br />
I am realizing more and more the importance of really taking care of my health. When you just feel good about the direction you are going in, in whatever area that may be, it makes all the difference. I have dusted off my <a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2013/07/living-it-up.html" target="_blank">UP band</a> and I am trying indoor cycling this weekend so pray for me saints! Lets see if I can be under my calorie goal 90% of the time this month folks (<a href="http://yougetlifted.blogspot.com/2014/04/weeks-11-14-marathon-not-sprint.html" target="_blank">my goal is still 1,500</a> calories/day).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1Txgs3Lne15-7s4Cp5CrQoCxeE9BRMvZB_evvzbnhrmgn45sMjCImhg68YzQorG7oHiFYEZD5uiBxSREu2-pAdYJBiIFxaBO3EmoKN97HujwuKgC5rdGhgflo6AwmnOTwaQxdNo0uL-u/s1600/Loved.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1Txgs3Lne15-7s4Cp5CrQoCxeE9BRMvZB_evvzbnhrmgn45sMjCImhg68YzQorG7oHiFYEZD5uiBxSREu2-pAdYJBiIFxaBO3EmoKN97HujwuKgC5rdGhgflo6AwmnOTwaQxdNo0uL-u/s1600/Loved.jpg" height="400" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
This week, I have been all about a good salad and some protein for lunch. Here are two that I loved and topped on with some Tyson's Seasoned Steak strips that are really good too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img height="200" src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" width="200" /><img src="http://www.dolesalads.com/getattachment/77e7a88c-a5bd-4e1e-9d9e-350208551014/Southwest-Salad-Kit.aspx" height="200" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/02/37/00/60/0002370060875_500X500.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I haven't checked in about fitness and weight loss in a while. How is everyone doing? What are you doing? Don't let go of those New Year's resolutions and goals yet! We are at the halfway point and we can make it!</div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7586921661398360926.post-56356256434396214082014-05-30T13:52:00.004-04:002014-05-30T13:52:42.264-04:00Be Strong<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DF-USOMHj8CZyYpx6TaY36LTMCc4AvINPunuSyfC7NQq92zgfly-EBbAYjfLBXMvb9bEM4NRyjeDg45k28mbru03BMxqKBvOU2s9LC0n7YKUNBnZF6hCaoKzcSIZ4f2qpa_zi8CjAmlu/s1600/Acceptance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DF-USOMHj8CZyYpx6TaY36LTMCc4AvINPunuSyfC7NQq92zgfly-EBbAYjfLBXMvb9bEM4NRyjeDg45k28mbru03BMxqKBvOU2s9LC0n7YKUNBnZF6hCaoKzcSIZ4f2qpa_zi8CjAmlu/s1600/Acceptance.jpg" height="200" width="160" /></a>Today I am feeling good. Just good in my spirit. Now around me there is some chaos, children anxious to be on summer vacation, some haters, and some naysayers but today instead of choosing to get sucked into their <strike>need to mind</strike> <strike>their own business</strike> whirlwind of judgement and negativity, I am choosing to honor God and revel in the blessings that I have today. <br />
<br />
Do you ever have days where you just feel real blessed no matter what? Today is one of those days for me.<br />
<br />
The other day I really got derailed by a negative comment someone made about one of my friends. I was so stunned that I don't feel like I did her justice with my reply (aka <em>I didn't curse the person out--I told y'all God is working on me).</em> But today I am reminded that when you life and your work honor God and bring you happiness no matter what anyone says when you are right within your soul, no one can take that away. I am grateful for an education and for experience that gives me options. I am grateful for a humble spirit and a sound mind. I am grateful that I do not get overly puffed up over success. I am grateful that I don't think small. I am just grateful that God always has the final say in all things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqnNWK8I3o3ckUuuZQOhosv3vEyTa9ZEZ2QvBMkhEMcLgR8E7wcSvAdOI2fICSWeCJbzMMGUOjY7R6KArtxp74DWLjZ3C4q3ZZayUc7abYVJJkPQXHRn_St2AJgrZgVbl-CV7ofI7I9sZ/s1600/Strength.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqnNWK8I3o3ckUuuZQOhosv3vEyTa9ZEZ2QvBMkhEMcLgR8E7wcSvAdOI2fICSWeCJbzMMGUOjY7R6KArtxp74DWLjZ3C4q3ZZayUc7abYVJJkPQXHRn_St2AJgrZgVbl-CV7ofI7I9sZ/s1600/Strength.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Let people hate and talk about you <em>(you'd probably be surprised by how much people talk about you and you don't even know it)</em>. Let people chase money and self-serving goals. The best thing you can do is to keep on living a life worthy of what God has called you to and to help others along the way.<br />
<br />
<em>Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.</em> (Colossians 3:23, 24 NLT)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0N_jT7K5rCKZC_s4aIH-B9rHTr1kK1uVroMVNUtN2nfRDC2CZuj0T5GZmGbJHLEjwcg89UKEF3K7XbBZlaAeJ02OXLNqGI4yek7LN30PAl50G8L6jOJqbtdLUsFvlJL3OGmhvxIFcG2P/s1600/Passion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0N_jT7K5rCKZC_s4aIH-B9rHTr1kK1uVroMVNUtN2nfRDC2CZuj0T5GZmGbJHLEjwcg89UKEF3K7XbBZlaAeJ02OXLNqGI4yek7LN30PAl50G8L6jOJqbtdLUsFvlJL3OGmhvxIFcG2P/s1600/Passion.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
Barbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09365730797290094671noreply@blogger.com1