Book Review: Get Your Head Out of the Clouds, This is Business

As a business owner, I can certainly attest to what is written and couldn't have said it better myself. This is an easy read! However, you need to be open to receive what is said in this book.  Get Your Head Out of the Clouds, This is Business is very straightforward - no sugar coating on this one. It's a great resource for any business person or aspiring business person's library!

Back To My First Love

I'd like to say I've been too 'busy' to consistently blog. However, the truth is I got distracted by life and the many things that come with just living it. Juggling my many functions and roles and responsibilities, feeling off kilter and out of balance, and even sometimes feeling a little depressed have all been factors in my long absence.

But this morning, after reading my devotions and a blog post from my sister in Christ, I realize what my problem is. I took my focus off my first love and focused on my circumstances instead. Focusing on my circumstances created a false and distorted view of myself and others. Focusing on what's going on around me got me off track and set me back months from the path I believe God had me on towards the Destiny and the plans He has for my life. Worrying about things I have no control over had me in a tailspin... But His word says...

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6, 7 NASB)

Thank God He doesn't let His children stray too far before reeling them back into His loving and protective arms. Thank God He is a loving shepherd who cares about every sheep that goes astray.  Thank God He is a loving Father whose unconditional love covers me even when I'm in doubt about who I am and when I get discouraged about daily life.

Thank God He's so good! He's so kind! I'm just so grateful that I belong to Him and He loves me for me, flaws and all. I'm grateful that I can always come back to my first love and He will never forsake me. He values me like fine china. He treasures me like a rare jewel... no matter what. He doesn't expect me to perfect. He accepts me with all my imperfections and loves me unconditionally.  No truer love is there than the love of The Lord!

Surrender and Impact for Destiny

When you take the time to reach out to others and invest in someone's life, you are impacting the world...yours and theirs. ~Joyce Meyers

During Bible study earlier this year, a young lady reminded me of this very thing. While giving her testimony, she mentioned that my loving on her and her daughter while I was a staff member at our church's school made an impact on her life. I never knew that until she said it. Can you say tears? That was nearly 10 years ago. It just goes to show you that you never know how much it may mean to someone when you take the time to smile, hug, or say an encouraging word. 

I try to encourage and love on everyone I meet because I want Christ's love to always shine through me. Now, I'm not perfect by any means. When it comes to people attempting to violate the peace in my home and my relationship with my family, I'm not a very nice person at all. But I'm working on even surrendering my attitude so I can make an impact on others even in this area of my life.

Throughout the destiny series, several things happened which has brought me to the point I'm at today. I had to take a break from everything to just sit still and hear what God was telling me. He made it very clear that He was weaving some things together that made room for my gift of encouragement and hospitality. All I had to do was surrender, say yes, and allow Him to continue to pull things together.  The urging was like "fire shut up in my bones".  I talked with two pastors and the doors literally flew open. So now, with the surrender, I'm finally doing what I feel God has called me to do in this season of my life to make an impact for His kingdom.

With the encouragement of our pastor, I've started a blog for encouraging single parents called Single Parenting in the Kingdom. Additionally, I've been given the privilege of working together with the Pastor of Fellowship and Singles Ministry Pastor to develop the Single Parent Family Ministry at our church. It is an honor to be able to serve in this capacity and I look forward to the lives that will be impacted as much as mine was when I was a participant so many years ago. 

Finishing Well

In John 17:4, Jesus says, "I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do." This is saying that following God means finishing what He's called us to do. ~Joyce Meyer

It's always amazing to me how The Lord works in our lives. You know how you never notice a particular type of car until you get it yourself? It's kind of like that for me. When I really start going deep in the word and my relationship with The Lord, it seems like everything I need is brought to my attention more than before. It's like POW! BOOM! Here I am, come and get me!

For instance, when I asked The Lord to show me my purpose, all of a sudden my plans seemed to start shifting and my life started moving in directions that were pointing me to places I'd been before but with a future focus, if that makes any sense.  He always gives me a choice in which path to take, but when I'm in this place of alignment, my choice is to be on the same page with Him - not my will but His. 

The thing is, God isn't surprised about where He's taking me. He's not confused about the plans He has for me. He doesn't have to ask what I should be doing. I believe He just waits for me to get out of the way so He can do what He does best - WITHOUT my help - and bring me to a place of purpose and destiny. When I'm completely surrendered to His will and His purpose, He can do His best work in me and through me. That's where I want to be for the rest of the days He's given me.

He's so amazing! 

As I prepare to share my single parent journey, I began reminiscing on the days when I was completely dependent upon Him for everything for me and the kids. All I can say is, had I not gone through what I went through, I wouldn't be prepared for this moment. And I keep going back to what Pastor Evans said yesterday...

Destiny is your customized life calling for which God has equipped or ordained you in order to bring Him the greatest glory and maximize the expansion of His kingdom.

Not only do I want to reach my destiny, I also want to finish what He's called me to do and I want to finish it well.  He's been preparing me. 

Wow... One of my favorite songs is playing as I write... Tears!

That song brings me to tears every time I hear it. Listen closely to the lyrics! If you've ever been through something and you were delivered... Look back and you'll cry, too!  Especially if you know that it was only the Lord that brought you through it. You can't help but praise Him and give Him thanks. I know I can't help myself. I couldn't see what He was preparing me for when I was in it but when I look back - oooooooh wee!!  

Anywho, I digress. LOL. My mom-in-law and I were talking about Sunday's sermon and what's been going on with me because she also wants to share with younger women about her journey. With over 45 years of marriage under her belt, she has a story to tell, too! She ministers to me regularly as a new wife.  We talked about Naomi's journey and her submission to her husband even when she wasn't in agreement with the direction he was going.  God has truly blessed me with a wonderful mother-in-law and I'm sure my husband would say the same about my mom. They are God-fearing women who have been through some 'THANGS'. 

I think we all want to finish well and make an impact on others in our generation.  We all want to hear the words - well done my good and faithful servant.

Finding My Destiny...

When you reach your limit, go to God, just like Moses did. He will help you find a saner, healthier lifestyle. ~Joyce Meyer

Have you ever felt all over the place, overwhelmed, or burnt out?  In Numbers 11, Moses was overwhelmed. The people he was leading from Egypt to the promise land were pulling at him from every which way. Has that ever happened to you?

Sometimes we need a break from outside influences and distractions so we can hear clearly from God about where He wants us to go. Sometimes it's okay to just say 'no' when you're being pulled at from every angle; just 'be still and know' that He's God (Psalm 46:10) and take time to meditate on His word about what's happening in Your life.  

To that end, I'm actually enjoying my break from social media this week. I don't miss trying to keep up with LIKING, SHARING, and RETWEETING posts to show I'm actively supporting all of my friends. I can show support in so many other ways! But mostly, I'm happy to refocus my energies on more important things like finding my destiny. It's amazing how much you get done when you're not being constantly distracted.

It's funny, because I wrote all of the above prior to attending church service today. After going through the month of September talking about Detours to Destiny using the life of Joseph, we're now entering a series on Destiny and I've been anxiously awaiting to begin. As Pastor Evans ministered to us, I jotted down some of his points taken from our main passage, Acts 13:36:

For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep... (Acts 13:36 KJV) 

The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want. (Proverbs 21:5 KJV) 

Focus on where God wants to take you... your Destiny.

1. David served the purpose of God

Destiny = Your customized life calling for which God has equipped or ordained you in order to bring Him the greatest glory and maximize the expansion of His kingdom.

You are created for a divinely designed purpose.God is the 'manufacturer'. He does things because He's going somewhere.

If you want to know your destiny, God must be at the center, not the peripheral. God wants to be the centerpiece, the sun in the solar system when planning your activities.

You should be saying:  God I want to make YOUR name great in whatever my destiny is and I want to expand your rule in my world.

2. He did it in his own generation.

When you're serving God, people will be impacted. David made an impact for God while serving others. If you cannot see people benefiting from what you've done, then you've failed.

When you've been delivered, reach back. Whatever your destiny is, it's bigger than you so you'll need God to pull it off. If you can do it without God, it's not your destiny.

3. He fell asleep.

Your destiny will be shaped by your perspective. As Christians, we are in the land of the dying headed toward the land of the living, not the reverse.

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (Psalms 90:12 KJV)
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

To fail to reach your destiny is a wasted life.

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20:24 KJV) 

Your heart = Gods heart. Not my will but thy will be done. 

And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. (Acts 13:22 KJV)

Like a runner in a race, you can't go back to the starting block, pick up the pace where you are.

I'm ready to step into my destiny. My first step is to become aligned with God for His purpose and my prayer is as Pastor Evans said - "God I want to make your name great in whatever my destiny is and I want to expand your rule in my world"! Secondly, I want the things I've been delivered from to be my testimony to others and where ever the Lord takes me to do that, I want to be willing and available to do it for His glory. I want my words to be His words and impact others for the expansion of His kingdom.  Lastly, knowing that my days are numbered in this lifetime, I want to be like Paul and finish my course with joy and pick up the pace right where I am! I know I'm no spring chicken! LOL. So I need to get on it. I'm glad we're going to be hosting the bible study in our home for the next six weeks and God brought us four couples to share with on this journey.

To Him be all glory and honor and power!  

Breast Cancer Awareness: Celebrating Life Foundation's Sister to Sister event

I was blessed with the opportunity to participate as a vendor at the Sister to Sister 12th Annual Fitness Festival & 5k Race/Walk today in exchange for helping to promote the event. I supported last year through our company, The Lyons Group, but did not have an opportunity to attend. What a difference a year makes! I started selling Avon in June and decided it would be a great place to showcase my new biz as well as support the presenting organization's Founder, Sylvia Dunnavant. I was completely blown away. If the Lord allows, maybe I'll even walk/run next year.

Every year, The Celebrating Life Foundation provides culturally relevant information to the community and raises money to continue the work of the foundation. According to their website, walkers, volunteers, corporations and community supporters from throughout the Dallas/Cedar Hill community unite each year to walk and address the risks of breast cancer among African American women and women of color.

They also provide mammograms for uninsured women who qualify at this event.

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38 (KJV)

I remember standing by my friend as she watched her mother slowly pass from this life into the next after her battle with breast cancer. I remember singing 'Always Remember Jesus' as her mother lay there with a look of peace on her face. As sad as it was, I thanked God that she would feel no more pain in this life. It was my first close-up experience with the disease. That was back in the late 90s when there wasn't as much information available in our community. Thanks to organizations like our church, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship and The Celebrating Life Foundation bringing awareness and opportunities to learn about the causes and treatment and links to various resources, I've since encountered several women who were diagnosed in the early stages and have survived! I also had my first mammogram a few years ago and after examination was sent to lab for follow-up because of some concern. Thankfully, I was cleared but it was quite a scary moment so I'm very grateful for early detection and information.

This organization has been blessed and is a blessing to others and I'm looking forward to participating again next year!

For more information on how to become a sponsor / vendor at future events, CLICK HERE or call the Celebrating Life Foundation at 972-501-9981 extension 110.

Trusting Him In a New Season

Being self-employed offers me the opportunity to create my own schedule. There were times when my schedule was so jam packed, I barely had time to breathe. The responsibilities of wife, mother, and business woman seemed to be on a three-lane super highway with no room to pass for personal time or aspirations. The term busy was a far cry from what I was experiencing. I was busy with a capital "B" and then some. Lately, however, I've been blessed with the opportunity to stop and smell the roses. I prayed for it and boy did I get it!

When the winds of change hit our home, it was nearly impossible to miss. The entire atmosphere began to shift around within months of each other. Children who needed me for almost everything at one point have matured and become independent - the older ones have gone off to see the world through their choice of college or military, calling home every now and again to check on me and let me know what's happening in their respective worlds, while the younger ones returned back to school, hanging out with friends and participating in various activities that keep them busy from sun up to sun down. The business that was almost running itself at one point seemed to be gasping for air at times but still brings in just enough from steady customers and referrals to sustain us with little to no help from me - the Business/Marketing Manager. Finally, a husband, my partner, who was available to me 24-7 was blessed with an opportunity that would take him away from home 7+ hours a day for at least 6-8 weeks... No more serving him coffee or tea in the morning or asking him what he wanted for lunch. No more moments of sneaking in his office for an afternoon smooch. Nope. He was out the door and, although I have the opportunity to chat with him at fleeting moments throughout the day, I am overjoyed to see him as if he'd been gone for months and welcome him home with open arms at the end of a busy work day.  I started to feel a gaping hole in my world.  So what was I to do now?

I thought I was prepared for this moment. I asked for it.  The peace. The quiet.  The time.  But I wasn't.  At first, I found myself somewhat lost in space. Wandering around the house literally looking for something to get into. For me, there is nothing good about having too much time on my hands. I don't know how people do it! Sitting around watching T.V. or online all day. I just can't do it! That would absolutely drive me crazy. So I began praying about what the Lord would have me doing in this new season of my life. I mean, I've been raising kids since I was 16 years old. I know there's something He wants me to do now that I have more free time to give so I created a makeshift schedule to occupy my time but left room for the Lord to maneuver me to where He would want me to go. We're studying Detours to Destiny (The Life of Joseph) at church so I want to be sure I don't miss the signs!

I started attending a weekly bible study and, although I didn't expect it, the opportunity presented itself to volunteer in various areas to minister to women of our church. Well, I've always loved volunteering so, in MY mind, I thought it would be best to volunteer for comfort and care. I'm already in that ministry as a whole, so it just seemed to make sense to me. But as I headed to the table to sign up, the facilitator for my table stopped and asked if I would mind being the table captain. Is this a detour? LOL.  Ok. Sure, why not? I asked the Lord to direct my path and I told Him I would be willing and available for whatever opportunities come my way so I signed up.  Still thinking I could do both table captain and comfort and care, I headed over to sign-up for MY intended destination. But as I waited in line, I was beckoned over to consider another opportunity.  Another detour within a detour? OMG!!  Who knows?  It certainly wasn't my first choice. However, there was a need. Only one person had signed up and several had signed up for comfort and care. I asked for something to do; not what I want to do, but what God wants me to do.  Not leaning to my own understanding, but trusting He would have me help where there's a need so I signed up there as well. No questions asked. Just going with His flow of things...

I feel blessed to have been given the time to volunteer as well as read, study, write, and fellowship with other women of God at this stage in my life. I don't take it for granted and I realize that God does not go back on His word. If you're aligned with Him, when you ask, seek, and knock, doors will be opened. I'm trusting Him in this new season of my life and enjoying where He has me at the moment.  The time also allows me the opportunity to work on the ministry He gave me so long ago. I'm so thankful and can't wait to see what's next on HIS agenda for me.  But if He detours me again, I won't be disappointed or angry. I'll continue to just go with His flow knowing He has an intended destiny for me in this new season of life.

Endless Possibilities. No Fear. No excuses!

The last time I spoke at my home church, it was in front of a group of teen moms in our "Daughters of the King" ministry.  Because I had journeyed that route of life, I was asked if I would share from my heart and encourage these young ladies who had been invited from our community. At the time, I'd never really shared my story with anyone on that type of platform and I was really nervous.  I'd also entered a new season of my life; divorced and raising my children in a single parent home. How could I even think about encouraging someone else in the middle of my own mess? But God always knows the right time and the right place, doesn't He? We just have to be prepared and willing to be used for His glory in it all.

Each Kingdom Woman has a ministry to another woman through the local church. ~Chrystal Evans Hurst

I prayed about it and felt God had brought me to a place as an adult where I could look back at where I was, what I went through, and where He brought me to, in order to share my testimony with those young women who were in that season of life. My heart went out to the young ladies whose relationships with their mothers were strained because of the choices they'd made and I shared that I, too, had once had a strained relationship with my mom, but eventually, we became closer than ever.  I remember looking into their eyes and seeing glimmers of hope knowing that they weren't alone in their circumstances and their future was not doomed because of their current station in life.  I remember just thanking God for the opportunity to speak with them and for giving me the right words to say.

That event took place over ten years ago.  When I was asked to share with our Women's Ministry Titus 2 Saturday, the memories of that event flashed through my mind. I was caught totally off guard and I got butterflies in my stomach. As I drove around for a few hours, my mind started rambling. I knew what my testimony was back then. But in this case, with so much having transpired in my life, it wasn't clear at first where I would fit in. When I spoke ten years ago, I knew what I was going to share because they told me what I would be speaking on. However, in this case, I was given a choice as to what I would like to share. I thought... Let’s see. On the one hand, I’m a business woman and I encourage other women in business… On the other hand, I’ve been married now for almost 5 years… but, wait a minute. I WAS a single mom for almost 13 years. I’ve had some bumps and bruises trying to find balance, learning how to submit, and all that jazz as a business woman, a married woman, and a mom of a blended family… But, I actually made it THROUGH the season of single parenting! Hmmmmmm.

The misery in one season of life may prepare you for the ministry in the next! ~Chrystal Evans Hurst

So, again, I prayed about it and when I was told that no one had ever presented on single parenting, it became clear that this is where the Lord would have me to share in this season of the life He has given me. It's more than a notion to raise kids in a two-parent home and much moreso in a one-parent home. If anyone could testify to that, it would be me! But for the grace of God, I made it and if what I learned can help someone else, I'm a willing servant.

Every woman has learned something no matter how far down the road she has gone. The question is not whether there is someone you can disciple, train, or model. You just have to stop and ask the Lord who that person is! ~Chrystal Evans Hurst

I’ll admit that although I've had experience as an inspirational speaker, I still get nervous speaking to large crowds of people! But, one of my takeaways from being on this Kingdom Woman journey is that I can't allow fear to stop me from walking where God wants me to walk, including publicly sharing the things that helped me make it through the challenge of parenting alone. Throughout the journey, I’d been asking the Lord to show me my purpose. I don't fully know what direction He's leading me, but who am I to question Him and the path He's taking me on? I’m learning to listen carefully, stay connected, be obedient, and go with His flow. God is in control and I'm just a vessel to be used for His glory.

God wants you to live in a way that leaves room for Him to tell you how to spend your time, whom to spend time with, and how to best express yourself in the context of engaging others. Leave margin—make room for the activities and people whom God wants in your life. ~Chrystal Evans Hurst

Reading this book and going on this journey has helped me reconnect, realign, and refocus my priorities.  I decided in advance to say, "Yes", to His will.  Do I still get jitters?  Ummmmm...  Yes!  However, I've learned that when I'm committed to what The Lord wants, I can do more than I could ever imagine.  With Him, the possibilities are endless.  No fear.  No excuses!

#KingdomWoman... Good In the Way of Great

www.chrystalevanshurst.com

Every Monday during our #KingdomWoman “One Month Journey”, we were given an assignment with the purpose of translating the message received from reading the book into active life change.  I've enjoyed the journey this past month and am looking forward to what God has for me to do from this point forward! 

The Monday Mission I chose this week is "Good in the Way of Great"... 

In Chapter 9 we read, “show me your calendar, and I will show you your priorities.”  What is one thing that you have been busy doing that you will make a plan to STOP DOING (or at least change the frequency or amount of your involvement).  It’s time to put feet to the pavement ladies.  What regular ongoing commitment or activity is good but that is keeping you from doing God’s BEST!

There were three missions to choose from and I could have easily chosen one of the other two. However, I'm online A LOT! (And hubby has actually given me the side eye a couple of times) so that's why I chose this one. Now, mostly, I use social media for business and it's been that way since 2004. But, as I've kept up with the trends and news, I've learned how to automate most of my business networks.  On the other hand, my personal pages are just that. I share what has inspired me during devotion or conversations I've had with others or what's been happening in my life. Even though what I feel I'm doing is good, I do realize it may be keeping me from doing God's best.  So, on Monday, I began shutting down my access and notifications for all my social media sites (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram). I went back and forth about whether to stop blogging, too, but decided that because it's not my normal vehicle for social media and I don't have a lot of interaction here, it's not a distraction that would keep me from doing God's best. In fact, blogging is a better use of my time online because I'm committed to writing more these days in addition to reading and studying God's word. 

Today is the first day of my commitment to take a break from social media for at least one week so that I can reorganize my priorities, refocus, and regain an atmosphere of balance in my respective roles. So far so good! I believe that taking this time off will allow me to clearly hear what God has to say about this season of my life and what I need to be doing to make sure I'm in alignment with Him and going in the direction He would have me to go.

Even in Pastor Evans' sermon series, "Detours to Destiny", it seems that it's just the right time for me to take this time off.  Who knows? At the end of the seven days, I may just decided to limit my social media activity indefinitely!  I don't know exactly what's happening, but I do know the signs are all around me that I'm on the verge of a huge breakthrough. Like detours having detours having detours! God's word is so amazing. HE is so amazing... I'm just preparing myself for whatever He has in store.

So many times we can be sidetracked by how slowly things seem to be going. In fact, the enemy loves to point that out! But remember, that's when God may be doing some of His greatest work. You see, it's not all about you and me. The Lord's work in us is preparation for the work He wants to do through us! ~Joyce Meyer

I don't want to be unprepared for the work He has for me to do. Ciao for now!

#KingdomWoman... The Journey Continues

For the past three months, I've been focused on reading, studying, breathing, living, and sharing God's word more than usual. The journey began by reading Kingdom Woman individually and culminated with a one month journey in an online group study to comprehend, focus, and apply what was read. It has truly been a privilege, a life altering experience, and a pleasure going on this journey. I feel rejuvenated! I actually feel like the prodigal daughter because at one point, this was me all day long and then I shifted my focus and got lost in the shuffle of just living life. I thank The Lord for the 'shift in the atmosphere' that turned me back to my first love. I know this is where I belong and I'm glad I wasn't so far removed that I couldn't come home.

Now, on to the destiny that God has for me. I'm reading, "The Resolution for Women" by Priscilla Shirer. I actually got through nearly half of the book about a year ago but got distracted and didn't finish. But what I've learned over the past few months is I need to make the time to do things I like to do, too, like reading!! I have a lot of books that have yet to be read and I'm committed to doing that in addition to my daily devotion. Also, me and hubby will be hosting a couples small group bible study in our home to study what God has to say about destiny. I've never done anything like this before but I'm so excited! 

As I prepare to forge ahead, I've decided to take a sabbatical from social media, using the time to read, study, and write (FINALLY). I'm starting off slowly, but will continue as The Lord leads me!

#KingdomWoman... On A Mission

I love this quote! 

I don’t have to have it all together to be a Kingdom  Woman.  I just have to be willing to bring all I am and who I am to [God] and let Him do His thing. ~Chrystal Evans Hurst

Isn't it a relief to know we don't have to worry about being perfect for God? Isn't it great to know that all God wants us to do is be willing vessels for Him to pour in and out of us?

I was wondering what I would write about today before I saw this quote. A few weeks ago, as I began this Kingdom Woman journey, I told my husband I want to be better in four areas of my life. I'm a Kingdom Woman on a mission to be available to be used by God more than ever but I felt I needed to get things... "right" across the board.

1. Spiritually. The saying goes, 'practice what you preach'. My prayer has been and is, Lord, help me to be genuine today and from this day forward. Let your light shine within and without wherever I go. Let my speech and actions be a consistent and true reflection of who You are at all times in my home life, with my family and friends, in our business, and in our community. Forgive me for the times I've not honored You with my speech, actions, and my innermost thoughts. I want to be more like You and I need more of You each day to grow. Thank You as always for Your grace and Your mercy and Your loving kindness and faithfulness to me even when I didn't deserve it. You are an awesome God and I praise Your Holy Name! Amen.

2. Emotionally. I won't go into great detail...yet but there are some deep rooted issues that I've never sought professional help for in my life. With the encouragement and support of my husband and family, I'm going to start dealing with those things so I can find inner peace and release some strongholds that are hindering me in this area.

3. Physically. When I started dating my husband, I was a nice size 5-6. I was confident in my appearance, how my clothes fit, my hair, skin, nails, everything! Not to brag, but I looked good! Even though I had a tight budget, I made sure to take care of myself on a regular basis. Now that I'm married, I seem to go over and above to take care of everyone but myself! Although I've still managed to take care of myself, it's not to the extent I did before. As a matter of fact, I've gained more weight than I care to share. I don't blame my husband or blame the fact that I got married. It's all about self-control...and I lost it. Being aware that something needs to be done and I need someone besides myself to get it done, I stopped in to see one of my 'kids' a few weeks ago. She's the owner of Beyond Physical Fitness. We briefly discussed plans to get my body in shape... from the inside out. I will begin when my youngest goes back to school - this week! Another thing I found out just this past Sunday is that my cholesterol is way too high so I definitely need to get started with the right diet in addition to exercise.

4. Financially. The big F... I met a wonderful lady at a women's business conference a few weeks ago and I fell completely in love with her spirit. She "read" me and I felt comfortable enough to share with her some of my financial struggles. In addition to her, God brought two other wonderful Christian women into my life this year who are genuine, smart, encouraging, supportive and I love them so very much for their authenticity. It is a relief to be able to be real and transparent and not be judged! They say if you aspire to be better, do better, including removing junk and negative influences from your life and replacing them with positive ones. In this area, I believe the Lord stepped in and took charge where I was too weak to do it myself. He took the wool off my eyes and showed me the reality of "friends" I thought were looking out for my well-being as I was looking out for theirs. When I stepped up, they stepped back, accusing me of not honoring MY commitment so they went on their way, bitter and unwilling to accept their part in the dissolution of the relationship. It hurt for a minute, but I know it is only through the Lord and the positive influences He's placed in my life that has shown me where I was being drained, used, and abused by certain people and certain groups. They were happy to take from me, but when the time came for them to return the favor, they were unwilling to give, and this has increasingly hurt me, my family, and our business, financially. Now, is the time to step into our financial breakthrough and allow the Lord to guide us in our stewardship across the board so that we don't suffer in this area any longer. 

I'm proud of myself for taking these steps to better myself. However, it's nice to not be under any pressure because The Lord can and will use me me no matter what! He's given me the principles to live by and godly, positive influences to model how they can be applicable to my life now. I'm ready for God to have His way!

So grateful for this Kingdom Woman journey!

Blessed to celebrate the 40th birthday of my business mentor, Shyra Smith.
She is one of the best, if not THE best, Christian Business Women I know!

#KingdomWoman... In the Kitchen!

One of my all time, easy peasy, recipes that my mom turned me on to is the...

No Bake Banana Surprise Cheesecake

When I was a kid, I couldn't wait for the winter holidays because that's the only time my mom would make this particular dessert. And that's what made it special. Just thinking about it makes me wanna make one or two or three!! Lol. I remember that it would melt in my mouth and with every bite... a banana surprise! 

Once I made it for my kids, it was all she wrote!  We turned it into a holiday tradition for our family and, even now, as adults, they have come to expect it every year. 

Enjoy!!

Ingredients:

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

2 containers (8 oz. each) thawed Cool Whip

1 Deep Dish Graham cracker pie crust

1 tsp vanilla

about 2 bananas (almost ripened)

Directions:

Beat with electric mixer the cream cheese, cool whip, vanilla, and sugar until well blended and smooth.

Thinly slice the bananas separately and  place them in rows, close together, along the entire bottom and sides of the graham cracker crust. You can add as many or as little bananas as you like. I do up to 2-3 layers.

Spoon the cream cheese Mixture into the pie crust until all the bananas are covered.  Top with sliced strawberries, if desired, or strawberry sauce on the side.

Place the pie in the fridge and let it set for about 4 hours.

If it's Thanksgiving, grab a slice while you watch the Cowboyz!!

#KingdomWoman... One Step At a Time

I've gotten behind in my writing but I'm still on my Kingdom Woman journey!! Today, we were to choose a mission to accomplish. I chose to take steps towards my purpose for my Monday Mission. Asking God to:

1. Remove any fear when opportunities present themselves;

2. Replace discouragement with encouragement when I face roadblocks or what appear to be setbacks;

3. Allow me to accept those things I cannot change and work wholeheartedly on the things I can change;

4. Help me to set aside the quiet time necessary to read and hear from Him clearly for every aspect of my life;

5. Help me remember that perfection is not necessary to do what He's called me to do;

6. Provide me with the right people and/or resources He deems necessary to carry out the plans He has for me in this season; and

7. Remove distractions!

Another thing I've resolved to do is get a new routine/schedule and stick to it. It was very clear to me today that I'm going in the right direction. Two of the devotionals I've been reading were centered on Paul's state of contentment and I've been praying for that in addition to more of a balance. I'd kind of gotten off track so I needed to get back on the train and ride it to the intended destination!

All aboard!!

The Birthday Trap...

I've been celebrating my birthday all month. I didn't ask anyone to get me gifts or join me in celebrating. I just chose to celebrate my life everyday by giving to myself. If anyone knows me, I give to everyone BUT myself so I thought it was high time I started to pamper myself - at least for this month. When I first thought about doing it, I felt really selfish and self-centered. But after thinking about it, I asked myself - why shouldn't I celebrate the life the Lord has given me everyday. Why shouldn't I feel special and valued every day of my life? I shouldn't depend on myself or others for my value. God has done that already. I am a Kingdom Woman!

Now, being a Kingdom Woman doesn't make me perfect. No one is perfect. I say this because after several days of giving to myself, when my official birthday came, I just knew that I was going to be lavished with gifts and special treatment. NOT! Well, my daughter sent me some edible arrangements and my son (and adopted son) went out and got me a card and a mug and I got a lot of birthday wishes from Facebook friends and family across the miles. 

 

Of course, hubby TRIED to start my day off right by waking me a little after midnight so he could be the first to tell me 'Happy Birthday'. But, no, that just wasn't enough for me. My poor hubby! I got caught up in the birthday trap and I was less than "Kingdom Womanish" with him and the rest of my family. Oh, I was not a happy camper and I let it be known in a very un-Kingdom Womanish display of tears and discontent. Unbeknownst to me, the family had been planning a surprise birthday weekend for me. 

I went on with my day of pampering myself, but while I drove to my destination, I got convicted about my attitude. 

  

It was a swift kick to my rear and I realized I needed to repent, apologize, and ask some sisters to pray over me for the way I'd behaved. Thankfully, I was forgiven and shown some mercy because by Friday, it was on!!

The festivities began with a dinner date with hubby. I love On the Border!! 

On Saturday, I was driven to my cousin-in-laws to get my hair done. Then hubby took my car for a much needed wash and all the family chipped in to purchase and install a new car radio!

 

On Sunday, three generations of men cooked for me! I was banned from the kitchen as my hubby, son, and father-in-law, fired up the BBQ grill. 

I really had a great time for my birthday weekend and I appreciate my family for all the planning and thought they put into it. I've got to learn how not to get caught in the birthday trap or any other "special occasion" and appreciate the love, encouragement, and support they give me daily.

As I reflect on this, I think about how we may treat God the same way sometimes. He blesses us with brand new mercies every day! But in the hustle and bustle of life, we take that for granted. We get upset about what we don't have instead of counting our blessings for what we do have. Don't get caught in the "blessings trap". Appreciate who God is and be content with what He's already given you on a daily basis.

 

#KingdomWoman... Her Gifts, Influence, & Impact

Many long moons ago, our church did a church-wide spiritual gifts inventory - Uniquely You. With that tool, I discovered that I was high on the side of encouragement and serving with teaching bringing up the rear. That event inspired me to create something that would impact and encourage others to use their God given gifts and talents in alignment with their God given purpose in the business world. As I began transitioning into self-employment, I felt an urge to help others achieve their dream of entrepreneurship as well. That was over eight years ago!

As I write, I remember how on fire I was to get started. God had blessed me with a number of opportunities to learn and meet people that gave me the know-how and resources to make an impact on the women in my sphere of influence. Our Assistant Pastor at the time said 'your gifts will make room for you' and I was ready to walk into what The Lord wanted me to do in this area of my life. Everything seemed to be in place! I prayed about it and met with the Operations Manager of a new women's networking group because my goal was to create a similar network with a faith-based niche. With the help of some sisters-in-Christ, I did it! The organization was created and we began to grow our group of five women to over 1200 on and offline. There was an audience of women helping each other grow personally, spiritually, and professionally. For three years, women were encouraged through workshops and online networking opportunities. Local Christian business owners from different industries that I'd met over the years volunteered to teach workshops, share their knowledge, and support women in business and those who aspired to do so. As shy as I was (and still am), I stepped forward to teach what I'd learned along the way as well. It was great! Then, I got distracted and 'LIFE' happened. Boy did it ever!

First, I tried to help manage my son's music career. However, I stepped back due to the direction he decided to take. I just couldn't follow him there and needed to let go of being "mommy" and let him learn how to make it on his own. Then, a few years later, I decided to take a sabbatical to become acclimated with my new life as wife and mom in a blended family environment, but the ministry was still always in the back of my mind. Thanks to social media, the network continued to grow and my immediate circle of women continued marching forward even though I stepped back to regroup and find balance between home and business. They were always encouraging me, checking on me, and building me up so I wouldn't let go of what I know the Lord gave me. There were many times when I wanted to just let go and give it away to someone else, but I just couldn't. Besides the tugging at my heart, the women who surrounded me throughout the life of this ministry wouldn't let me!

Now that I've completed the Kingdom Woman book and began the one month journey to go deeper, I realize it's time to refocus and "get back in the saddle" because God gave me the gifts I have in order to bless others to influence and impact the world for His Kingdom. I know that more than ever now and I'm praying daily for the focus and balance needed to get it right.  I've always wanted to make a difference in this lifetime... not for my glory, but for His!  I'm so grateful for the time He's given me to "get it together" and all of the wonderful people He's brought into my life to help me focus. Now it's time for me to step into my purpose, power, and possibilities!

On top of this particular ministry, there's a book somewhere deep inside me and also a play that I've been wanting to write for years as well. I know it's time to birth this baby because I nearly ran over the person I needed to speak with about it at church about a week or so ago! I've tried to look for confirmation before moving on anything and I'm grateful I'm open to receive it when it shows itself. When you open yourself up to be aligned with God's word, when you become obedient, you can't help but step into what He has for you to do!

#KingdomWoman... One Month Journey begins!

I completed the Kingdom Woman book just in time to join the One Month Journey that begins today!

I have to say that this has been an amazing accomplishment for me because I've not been able to read through an entire book in such a looooong time! But you do what's important, right? And it was very important for me to reconnect with God in a different way. I haven't arrived to my destination but I believe I'm many steps closer than I was before towards the purpose, power, and possibilities for me as a Kingdom Woman. Yeah me! Thank You, Jesus!

I believe I've gained a lot more confidence and clarity about what I'm supposed to do since I began this journey. I'm praying daily that I will recognize and fulfill the purpose God has for me at this point in my life.

Today was a really weird day but it was full of promise and possibilities and I'm just thankful for specifically answered prayer.

Labor Day Weekend!

I had a pretty full weekend starting early Friday morning! My aunt flew in from Nashville to attend Megafest here in Dallas. She invited me to attend and it was amazingly enlightening and refreshing!

I was overcome with emotions as a little known 'Pastor' made her way to the stage to share her thoughts on Malachi 4:6 and share her testimony. After that, we went on a quest to find food, shopping, and more food. It was great to spend time with one of the Kingdom Women who has shaped who I am today.

Since I didn't get home til after midnight, I shared what I learned at Megafest with hubby Saturday morning. He, of course, provided me with his insight...

Enough said!

Later, we celebrated an accomplishment we hope to attain one day - his/our grandparents 65th wedding anniversary.

On Sunday, our dear Pastor returned from vacation with a vengeance!

And on Labor Day, we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon of food and fun. My father-in-law BBQd some mean ribs, chicken, and sausage, Mom did her 'thang' on the potato salad and green beans, and dessert was some Blue Bell ice cream. After dinner, we watched movies, then Hubby and I won three straight games of 'dem bones (dominoes) before we headed home to dance to some old school before heading to bed.

We had a GREAT holiday weekend! Thankful for some time to relax and refresh for the week ahead!

#KingdomWoman... Her Joy! (Part II)

I remember walking down the aisle of our church on a Wednesday night. Our pastor asked me to share my testimony. Boy was I nervous! But then I thought about the reality of what I was doing and I asked The Lord to help me remember it wasn't about me, it was about Him and the power of prayer. What He did for my little family was a blessing but the bigger blessing was the testimony to give others hope.

So I got to the front of the church. I was very excited to share the miracle of 2001...my very specific prayer that had been answered - exceedingly, abundantly, above all that I could ask or think!

When I moved to the DFW area, I prayed for a home for me and my kids. My credit was jacked up after my divorce but somehow, I knew God was gonna work things out if I would step back and allow him to do it. One day in 2000, I was riding in the car with my co-workers after visiting a church member who was sick. As I looked out across the sea of homes, like Babe Ruth, I pointed in the direction of the place I hoped would one day be our home and I said out loud to my co-workers, 'My house is over there somewhere!'  They probably thought I was nuts. Here I was a single mom, four kids in tow, and working on a ministry salary. I was already barely making ends meet and the area I was looking at boasted homes way out of my little budget. But I didn't care. It was a dream and a prayer that I laid at The Lord's feet and I went on my merry way.

Fast forward to 2001!  Remember the roach infested apartment? Well, we did all we could to keep our place clean. We had a nasty neighbor so the bugs just kept coming no matter what we did. My grandmother even made a special mixture to get rid of 'em but they just kept coming. Roaches were checking in and staying for the long haul up in there! But we didn't give up and we stopped complaining. In the midst of 'roach wars', I received news that I'd been approved to be placed on a special housing program. This program would allow me to rent a home in an area that was 75% Caucasian because of a lawsuit that was filed for discrimination. The catch was I had to find the home within two weeks or I'd be removed from the program and back at the end of the list for another year! I had been patiently waiting for this opportunity and when it presented itself, I wasn't ready! I didn't know the first thing to do. I'd only been in Dallas a short time and I only knew a handful of people. However, I knew that a couple at our church had rental properties so I told them the situation and asked them what to do. At first, the husband told me about all the properties he had but that they were all being rented. However, he told me if I found a house I liked in the area I need to, he would purchase it and rent it out to me. Huh? Really? I was dumbfounded. I think my mouth was on the floor! Now, again, I really don't know the area so I really didn't know what to do. 

Here's where I know the Lord was in it. A few days later, as I'm driving my normal route to take my kids to school, there was a house on the corner that I'd never noticed before. For some reason, I took special note of it this day. It had a white piece of paper sticking on the window. I don't remember what prompted me to look in this particular direction. But when I saw the white sheet of paper, I became curious as to what it was. So I called up a friend of mine and he told me that the property was probably being foreclosed on. Now, remember earlier when I said I was like Babe Ruth and pointed out where I wanted to live? This house was in that area. Now, I'm trembling as I dial the phone number of the man who said he would buy a house and rent it for me. I told the gentleman about the property and asked him to check into it and sure enough, it was being foreclosed on. I'm thinking, am I dreaming? Is it really what I think it is? Nah, couldn't be. There was no for sale sign or anything in the yard. Just this TINY sheet of paper in the window... But God!

Now, I don't know the normal process for purchasing and closing a home, but I will tell you this... THIS house was purchased, I was given the information to give to the people over the program, and this thing was a done deal RIGHT ON TIME. I kid you not!  This thing was done in less than two weeks.  I was in a tailspin. And you know what? I knew it was ONLY God who could have pulled that off.  He took ALL the pieces of the puzzle and pulled them together and, like my pastor said, He wrapped it up and put a nice pretty bow on top of it and handed it to me. But I know this whole situation only came to pass after I found joy, unexplainable, deep down in my soul. It was only after I stopped complaining and started praising him, like they say, ANYHOW, that He was able to do all that He had to do to give me my miracle of 2001. It was only after I became content with what He'd already given me. It was after I became a good steward of what He'd already given me. THAT'S when He was able to bless me. But it didn't stop there!

I'm in the front of the church giving my testimony and my pastor stops me. He asked, "If you had to get furniture for any room in the house, which one would it be"?  In my mind, I'm trying to think because as I'm telling the testimony, I'm literally still in a fog remembering the details of what transpired. So I'm literally STILL in shock as I'm telling the story so I can't even think straight!  So, I said, well, it's not the best but I already have living room furniture and the boys had their bunk bed and bedroom set I'd bought a long time ago. But my daughter was still sleeping on a toddler bed with a little chest of drawers. I always wanted to have a canopy bed for my daughter so maybe a bedroom set for her room would be nice. I was thinking, why in the world would he stop me and ask me about some furniture?  He turned to me and said, "Ok. Go pick out whatever you want for her bedroom and I will take care of it".  Ya'll, I don't even remember what my reaction was to that! I don't know if I blacked out, I don't remember if I cried. I don't remember if I screamed, ran up the aisle like a game show contestant... I really don't remember what I did at that moment because that just took me over the top of the feelings I already had during that moment! I know I was overwhelmed and I remember thinking, Lord, why did you do this for ME?

I remember thinking. I'm so unworthy. I'm so undeserving, Lord. What did I do to deserve this? I have NOTHING to give you but thanks, Lord. I think I cried for a week in disbelief that all this was happening. I cried in gratefulness because I was not a perfect person but I was truly humbled by this experience. I was a walking zombie and when I walked into that house for the first time, I was a ball of emotions. It was so big. It was EXACTLY what I'd asked for - spacious, lots of closet space, and a big yard for the kids to play in... and it was in a very nice neighborhood. When I moved in, I had a beautiful bedroom set for my daughter along with gifts from others who heard my testimony - a washer/dryer set, a refrigerator, a lawnmower... My goodness. I'm crying right now remembering it. And we're still in that house.

When I told my husband this story, I said to him, one day, I'm going to be able to do this for another single mom or a family that's down on their luck because I know how it feels to want something so bad for your family. This home gave us the stability we needed to move forward in peace. Being in this home has allowed my children to attend school in a decent school district, walk the streets without having to pass by folks smoking or drinking, or asking them to buy drugs. When we got married, it was a tough decision whether to move into a new house or build upon this one. We prayed about it and decided to stay. So this house has also become a place for my new children to have a second home to visit their father whenever they want to. This house is no ordinary house. This is my miracle home. The miracle of 2001.

The joy of the Lord kept me while I waited patiently on Him to do what He does better than anyone else - show up and show out! And because I experienced Him working on my behalf personally, I don't mind and enjoy telling this testimony to give others hope and encouragement while they wait on Him to come through for whatever they've asked Him for. He's still into working miracles! No matter what your circumstances LOOK like, take joy in knowing that God is still seated on the throne and He's working things out for your good. No one and nothing can steal the joy that The Lord gave you so don't give up and don't give in - Ever!

Having JOY is different than having HAPPINESS...