Gratitude is the best attitude

Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone. ~G.B. Stern

This year, instead of coming up with resolutions I have decided to begin a new tradition in my family.  I will be choosing a word to focus on - think of it as my theme for the year.  After much thought, I decided that gratitude would be my theme for 2011.

I want to become better at expressing thanks and letting those around me know how much I appreciate them being in my corner.  I want to instill in my children the power of "thank you" and being grateful for the little things in life.  My 9 year old and I will each be keeping a gratitude journal where we list at least 5 things we are thankful for each day.  When I first told him about my idea, his response was "I know what will be first on my list every day - my family!!!"  (I just love that kid!)

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?" ~William A. Ward



Sometimes we get so bogged down in what we don't have and what problems we do have, that we forget to focus on what we do have and what we have come through.  I try my hardest to keep a positive and upbeat spirit, but I want to focus more on showing God how grateful I am to Him for all that He has provided for me and my family.  I want to let Him know that I am standing on His Word and know that the promises that He has made to me will come to fruition, but in the meantime, I am just thankful and blessed for the place He has me at now.

Praise the bridge that carried you over. ~George Colman

So, Divas, my challenge to you is to come up with a word for 2011 to embrace.  Yes, it is good to make resolutions (goals) but that is something we should all be doing on a constant basis.  Reflect on where you are right now and where you would like to be 365 days from now and see what God whispers into your spirit.

Be blessed, Divas!!!

Principles of Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is celebrated annually from December 26th through January 1st.  While it is typically an African-American celebration, the principles that it focuses on are definitely multi-cultural and things we should all focus on year-long:

* Umoja (Unity): This principle states that success begins with the unity of families, communities, nations and races. 



* Kujichagulia (Self-determination): We all need to be responsible for ourselves. We have a part in creating our own destinies.


* Ujima (Collective work and responsibility): We must build and maintain our communities together.

* Ujamaa (Cooperative economics): We must build, maintain, and support our own stores, businesses and establishments.


* Nia (Purpose): To be responsible for those who came before (our ancestors) and to those who will follow (our descendants).


* Kuumba (Creativity): Using creativity and imagination to make our communities better.


* Imani (Faith): Believing in ourselves, our families, our educators, our leaders and, most importantly, God.

Be blessed Divas!!!

Soulful Sunday: You are one blessed somebody!!!

Oh my goodness!!! This morning's worship service was absolutely awesome!!! I was definitely in the right place at the right time for the right message.

I just love when I hear an inspiring message because it motivates me to make changes and opens up my mind to ways to move to the next level in my prayers, praise and purpose.

Those that know me know that I try my hardest to think in a positive fashion.  I don't like negativity and try not to dwell on the negative aspects of things going on in my world and the world around me.  I, also, do not like to associate with negative people because it has a way of bringing me down.  I DON'T like to be down because I have so many reasons to be UP!!!

Positive thinking leads to positive living which leads to positive results.  Many successful people attribute their success to their positive thinking.  Harriet Tubman never considered herself a slave - hence the reason she kept running away.  Michael Jordan did not consider himself a loser and would not entertain the thought of losing.  Bill Gates did not entertain thoughts of failure - even before launching Microsoft he did not have a plan B because he knew he was going to be successful.

I leave with you these thoughts, Divas, from my pastor's sermon this morning:

You are what God says you are - not what those around you say you are.
You can do what God says you can do - don't fall prey to the naysayers in your life.
You are the head and not the tail - do not be content with being a follower or coming in last place.
Your circumstances do not define who you are destined to be - You are one blessed somebody!!!

My pastor challenged us to fast from negativity for the remainder of the year.  I encourage you to look at the positive side of the challenges you face in the coming weeks.

Have a blessed and purposeful week, Divas!!!

DWP - Rosalyn's Scent

This weeks Diva With A Purpose, Cassandra Stewart, is definitely an inspiration to me. When I think of entrepreneurship, dedication and compassion - her name is one of the first one's to come to mind. Cassandra is the owner of Rosalyn's Scent – all natural bath and body products that she creates herself!!! All it takes is one use and you are absolutely hooked!

What impresses me the most about Cassandra's drive and dream is that she truly does put a part herself into the products she creates. Her business is a tribute to her mother, the Rosalyn in Rosalyn’s Scent. Cassandra took her mother’s dream and made it a reality – combining her passion for “scentology” and her devotion to finishing what her mother started but was unable to complete. The end result - Madam Mixtress, the creator of superb products!!!

Drive, determination and dreams often go hand and hand. Anyone can have dreams, but it takes a very special person to take those dreams and make them a reality. There are so many forces that seem to be against you when you are starting out, but with determination and hard work you can succeed. Ms. Sandii can definitely give testament to that!


I am so glad that our paths crossed and have enjoyed watching her business grow over the past few years. She has taught me so much without even realizing it and inspires me to continue working towards my dreams.


I encourage everyone I know to give her products a try – you will definitely fall in love!!! Now that the winter months are upon us, her body butters are a staple in my household for my boys, myself and even my husband!!!

In Her Own Words:

I've worked so hard to build my business and it means the world to me. I have a lot of haters trying to bring me down but guess what its not working and it never will! I had jobs and I got to the point where I was tired of working for someone and working just to make ends meet. Being my own boss is a wonderful feeling! My home life is better, I feel better...its just wonderful!



I build my business not only to make money but to give back and celebrate others. Before leaving NYC I donated products to a womens shelter and I told them my life story. They were amazed and touched because here I am a business woman that went through the same struggle that they're going through. I wanted them to have hope of one day living a better life and that sometimes we hit rockbottom but if you're strong enough to hold on to faith that you'll rise to the top in no time!
 
Some thoughts to ponder:

• What is it that you want to accomplish?
• What motivates you to succeed?
• What resources do you need to move to the next level?
• Are you ready to dedicate your time, finances, and talents to your dream?

"Bear in mind, if you are going to amount to anything, that your success does not depend upon the brilliancy and the impetuosity with which you take hold, but upon the ever lasting and sanctified buldoggedness with which you hang on after you have taken hold."  - Dr. A. B. Meldrum



Introducing the first Divas With A Purpose Blog Game…YAY!!!

2 lucky readers will win a $15 gift certificate to Rosalyn's Scent. Here are the rules:


**You must leave a comment below that includes the following:  What/who inspires you? You must, also, comment on which product or products from Rosalyn’s Scent you would like to try for yourself. Or, if you have purchased from her before – what your favorite product is.***
 

Good luck Divas!!!  This contest ends at 8 pm EST on Friday, December 18th.  The winners will be announced on Saturday, December 19th.  Winners will be selected using Random.org.

Sometimes one is enough...

Just One
Unknown

One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.

One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal

One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.

One step must start each journey.
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,

One life can make a difference,
You see, it's up to you!

Today's one of those days where I have so much to say but very little energy to say it.  Just know that sometimes you are all a person needs to know they can make that next step.  Be careful of the words that you speak - whether in anger or in jest - because you never know what affect they will have on a person.

Be Blessed, Divas! But, more importantly, be a blessing to others!!!

After awareness comes action...

I've seen friends and friends of friends changing their status and profile pictures on Facebook all week long to raise awareness of child abuse. A REAL problem in our communities that many choose to ignore - even when it's right next door.  It's wonderful to raise awareness and Facebook has the ability to reach so many people - so why not use it for some positive and spread awareness.  However, in spreading the awareness, I hope there is a call to action to help in some real and tangible fashion.  Research different organizations in your community and volunteer to help or donate what you can to help them with their cause.

Prevent Child Abuse America is an organization that I have worked with before.  Check out their website or contact your local United Way chapter to see how you can help.

Also, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction! Please research the newest post stating this is something started by pedophiles.  I, personally, have not found anything to support this.  I'm not saying it's false but I'm not saying it's true.  As a parent, my child is not allowed on a social networking site without me monitoring it 100% - meaning no one could add him as a friend and vice versa without my knowledge.  I encourage all parents and caregivers to do the same.  This will help to ensure that an unknown pedophile is unable to communicate with your child without your knowledge.  My son has an email address.  I have the password and all incoming and outgoing messages are copied to my personal email address so that I am aware of all communication that he has.  As a parent, I have that right and responsibility.

I'm done with my rant for the evening.

Be Blessed Divas!!!

Spirit of Thankfulness

I'm posting my Thankful Thursday blog a day early because I will be enjoying my day with my wonderful extended family. My prayer is that you all have a wonderful holiday as well.

Let's not let the spirit of Thanksgiving last for one day or one season. As hectic as life gets sometimes, it does help to sit down and count your blessings to realize just how blessed you are. I think back at where I was emotionally, financially, spiritually, and physically a year ago and am amazed how far I have come. Even though there were times when I had no idea how I was going to make, I DID!!! There are many around us that are hurting this holiday season. They may have lost loved ones, are struggling with depression, have financial strains, the list could go on and on. Please take the time to reach out to them to let them know you care. Even if it is quick phone call or visit or inviting them to dinner with your family. If you are struggling this holiday season, please please please reach out to someone. Surround yourself with positive and uplifting people. Let someone know that you need a shoulder to lean on or an ear to vent. And remember, this too shall pass! Even though it seems like it isn't, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

What are you most thankful for this season?

Have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving, Divas!

Thankful Thursday - 11/18/2010

My favorite time of year is kicking off!!! I am so hyped about this holiday season for so many reasons. I think what inspires me most about this time of year is that it brings out the giving spirit in so many people. My prayer is that that spirit continues throughout the remainder of the year and into the next.

Today I am thankful for...

• A relationship with my Lord and Saviour always tops my list. I've been blessed in so many ways that I have no choice but to give God ALL the credit.
• Working for a company that values its employees. Tomorrow is our Thanksgiving pot luck and I am SOOOOOO excited! I'm probably going to dream about all of the yummy foods I'll be devouring tomorrow :)
• My wonderful children. They have a way of bringing a smile to my face when it seems nothing or no one else can.
• My heating pad - I sit next to a large window at work and this is going to be a long and chilly winter. Looks like I might need to add a Snugli to my Christmas wish list.
• My Godmother - she's a jewel. I could go on and on about her, but I'll just say she is the absolute best.
• Facebook Mobile - The first step is admitting you have a problem...I haven't made it to that step yet...LOL
• The most wonderful "oldest" and best friend in the world! We've been friends for 25 years. We've had our ups and downs over the years, but I am so thankful that our paths crossed all those years ago in that sandbox at daycare.

The past few weeks have been trying for me. God's definitely had me in a testing season and I am so thankful the prayers and encouragement from so many of my family and friends. Many didn't even know the details of what was going on, but still let me know that they were praying for me. That truly meant a lot. We don't always have to know all the gory details of a person's storm, we just need to help provide the umbrellas to cover them during it. I'm looking forward to the rainbow at the end of this storm. I know God has some awesome blessings in store for me and my family. My prayer is that He blesses each of you abundantly, as well.

Have a wonderful and blessed evening, Divas!!!

Motivational Monday: Just Do It!!!

"A year from now you will wish you had started today" - Karen Lamb

I "re-tweeted" this on Twitter a few months ago and it's stuck with me since then. Often times we continuously put off doing something and time just gets away from us. It could be dieting, going back to school, paying off debt, saving for a vacation, reconnecting with a loved one, the possibilities are endless.

Taking the first step and making a decision to make a change or try something new can often be the most difficult step. Once you get moving, oftentimes everything else will fall into place. Especially if it's something that you are truly supposed to be doing and will help benefit you, your family and those around you. Unfortunately, it won't always be smooth sailing, but those things we want the most are often worth working the hardest for and sacrificing the most for. Find a support group - family, friends, others making the same changes through online groups - and reach out for help and advice as needed. Make an action plan. Decide what you are able to do and take the necessary steps to complete your plans in a reasonable time span.

You can do this...and a year from now you'll be patting yourself on the back when you look at what you've accomplished!!!

What is it that you are committing to starting today?

Share your plans, Divas!!! You never know what resources are out there that can be of help to you.

Have a wonderful and joyous week!!!

Thankful Thursday - 11/11/10

What are you thankful for today?

At the top of my list for today...

1. A relationship with a forgiving and loving Savior
2. My family (as dysfunctional and crazy as they can be)
3. A job I enjoy and have had for over 2 years when so many are unemployed
4. A wonderful group of friends who are there for me with just a phone call, text or email
5. Peace of mind and a forgiving spirit
6. Criminal Minds marathons
7. Nestle Toll House turtle cookie dough
8. A budgeting mindset
9. My washer after 4 months of having to go to the laundromat
10. Cuddle time with my 2 year old

I am, also, thankful for those that serve and protect our country in the armed services. Those that have given our lives for our freedom and are often under-appreciated by those who don't truly understand the sacrifices they and their families make.

We're in the home stretch, Divas!!! I hope you had a wonderful Thursday and let's make tomorrow a Fantastic Friday :)

Motivational Monday: One Step At A Time

"But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, You are my God." - Psalm 31:14

There are sometimes when life gets you so boggled down that the only thing you can do is put one foot in front of the other - and even then that's a struggle. When those times come at me...I think of the verse above. Very often do I understand the whys and hows, but I have to trust that God has a bigger plan in place for me. I must admit that the struggles that I have overcome have made me a better and stronger person in long run. Did I enjoy them? Of course not! But I pressed forward and kept a smile on my face even when I felt like curling up into a ball and crying myself into oblivion. As a wife, mother, worker, friend - that just was not feasible or possible. Getting to this point was definitely a process. There was a time that one little setback sent me into a downward spiral of depression. I'm so thankful that I've gotten to a point where if I can't do anything else, I can put one foot in front of the other. That first step leads to another and then another. Perhaps the first step is reaching out for prayer from a trusted friend or something as simple as a shoulder to cry on. With that release comes an inner peace that helps me make another step. I try not to overdue or put on airs that I'm better than I truly am, but I do my hardest to keep a smile on my face when facing others. Despite the inner turmoils I may be experiencing, I know that my God will keep, protect and comfort me. That enough gives me joy and enables me to smile and laugh on the outside when I'm crying on the inside. The ability to take one step at at a time and knowledge that I can trust in the Lord, keeps me balanced and sane in the most difficult of times.

Divas, when life throws you curve balls, just remember to put one foot in front of the other. There's always something worth taking that next step for. Reach out for help from a trusted friend, family member or counselor. You are able to conquer this storm! Trust me, I'm definitely a survivor!

Have a wonderful and blessed week!

Soulful Sunday: Dreamkillers

A few weeks ago, I attended church service at my aunt and uncle's church here in town. My uncle was the speaker for their Lay Sunday (lay is a term referring to non-ministerial members of the church in case you're wondering). While he said lots of wonderful and thought-provoking things, there was one statement that he said that has stuck with me and caused the most reflection over these past few weeks. To paraphrase, we all know the commandment "Thou shall not kill" however we should apply that not only to the physical body but to the emotional and spiritual. Wow! There is so much power in the words we speak (and sometimes that we don't speak). We have the power to demolish someone's spirit with a few harsh words.

I remember years ago, someone very close to me said some very harsh words that stayed with me for years. Many times when I would go to do something new, their words would come back and I would freeze in fear believing I was unable to succeed. I blame no one but myself for what I have or have not accomplished in my life. The supportive words of those close to me though have had the ability to push me to the next level; while the lack of support sometimes "helped" me to decide not to accomplish a task or give my all.

Those that know me well can attest to the fact that I can be quite opinionated and out-spoken. I know I have the ability to cut a person deeply with the words that I speak in anger and make a conscious decision to not speak out of anger or hurt. There are times when I may have to remove myself from a situation or go mute rather than say what I'm truly thinking at the time. Once I speak those words, there is no way that I can take them back. Yes, I can apologize and speak new words that are softer and more encouraging, but my original statement has already been put in the atmosphere. It will come back to the memory of those that I love and cherish. Rather than have them recall those hurtful words spoken in anger, I choose to hold back for a moment. To think and pray over what I need and want to say. Sometimes I say nothing. There are some arguments not worth having when you look at the larger picture. Sometimes I say what I was originally thinking. Once I've had the opportunity to stop and think my words over and how they apply to the situation, I am able to say them in a "nicer" tone without the harsher words. It's not always what you say but how you say it. There are other times when I realize what I was going to say was wrong and just meant to inflict hurt and pain. We all have those moments. We want to hurt someone as much as they've hurt us - rather it was intentional or not.

As a mother, I'm extra careful about the words that I speak to my boys. The gift of parenthood is an awesome task. As their earthly caregivers, we have so much power over our children's life paths as they are growing up. I definitely do not want my boys to reflect on a moment where I said something demeaning or hurtful to them when they get older. Will I always pass that test? No way. But, overall, I believe I have done a pretty good job at disciplining them without being demeaning.

So, the next time you're about to say something to someone that may come across harsh or is spoken out of anger, hit the pause button. Reflect on the words that you are about to speak and ask yourself if you're about to "murder" someone's dreams, hopes, ambitions or spirit.

Have a wonderfully inspiring week Divas!!! And, remember, His Will...His Way...Embrace It!

Motivational Monday - Plan to Succeed

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" - Jeremiah 29:11

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” – Proverbs 16:3

When life throws me a curve ball, I reflect on these bible verses. I know that challenges that I face and the trials that I endure are all part of God’s overall plan for me and my family. There are so many thoughts and plans that God has placed on my heart and I know that they are from him because they are things that I would have never imagined myself getting involved in. I’ve had to just step back and let God do what God needs to do in order to get Michelle right to be able to handle what it is He wants me to do. Along the way, I’ve come to realize that he’s removing certain people and habits from my world, but at the same time he’s depositing so many wonderful and positive people and characteristics. There has been a change in my walk and my talk. Some subtle and some drastic, but I know without a doubt that I’m on the path to greatness. Not in a cocky kind of way, but in a way that I will have no choice but to give all the credit to God. I’m excited and a tad bit nervous about the journey, but I know that He won’t lead me astray.

To get what you want and need out of life, you have to plan for it. You have to have goals and ways of tracking your accomplishments and setbacks. I, personally, use what are called S.M.A.R.T. goals. They were introduced to me years ago when I first became a manager in the hospitality industry and I’ve been able to apply them to both my personal and professional life.

If you’ve never heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals, it stands for Specific; Measurable; Action-based; Realistic; and Time-bound. It’s easy to say I want to be successful or I want to pay off my debt, but without a game plan on how to those things, how will you know when and where to start?

Shape your goals in a S.M.A.R.T. way to keep yourself accountable.

Specific is the what, why and how. Use action words to describe what you are going to do. Why is it important to you? What is it that you want to accomplish and for what reason? How are you going to do it? What resources do you have and/or need?

Have measurable checkpoints. In one week, I want to have this done. In one month, this should be completed. If you’re unable to measure, then you’ll never be able to manage it. Having measurable progress will help to keep you motivated and energized about attaining your goals.

Identifying what is most important to you will often energize you to find the means to attain it. When you really apply yourself, you will find the energy, finances, attitude, skills and abilities to get what it is you really want. You’ll find that people and opportunities will come into your life to help you with your goals once you really begin focusing on them. Come up with an action plan to set you in the right direction of reaching your goal. If you’re unsure what avenues to take, reach out to people who are able to help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when necessary.

Your goal must be realistic. Becoming a millionaire in one week does not cut it! Evaluate where you are and what you have. If your goal is unrealistic, then you will lose motivation and it will not happen.

Finally, set a time-frame for your goal. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t meet your original goal in the time that you set, but evaluate what it is you need to change and adapt to so that you can continue on your course to greatness!

Reading Rocks!

I hope you are all having a fantastic weekend, divas! I spent a long, but rewarding, morning with my sons at a festival called Reading Rocks! It was hosted by your school district and focused on promoting literature to our young people. As an avid reader, I am so glad that I passed that joy on to my boys. I couldn’t fathom being in a household without books or around people who did not enjoy reading. Unfortunately, that is the case in many homes in our communities. I urge you all to read SOMETHING daily, let your children see you do this and read with them as well. It makes a huge difference. There are so many resources in our schools and our communities for children (and adults) to help with any barriers that they may have when it comes to literacy. Please reach out to these sources if you need to. Also, touch bases with your local United Way if you have a 30-45 minutes to spare once a week to read with an elementary school student in your community. It’s a humbling experience and makes such a huge impact in a young person’s life. There are other organizations with programs like this, so do what you can when you can. But we all need to attempt to do SOMETHING.

Perseverance

Whew! I don't know about you DIVAS, but life has been throwing me some curve balls lately. I learned a long time ago that once you commit to doing something positive and uplifting, there will be many roadblocks that come up in ways you couldn't even imagine. That's what I have been battling over the past few months and, unfortunately, I let some of those "attacks" deter me from being fully committed to the things I know will make a difference in my world. There comes a time when you just get tired - physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. However, I am so thankful that I have so many sources of joy and energy in my life to revitalize me when I get to that point. Sometimes you just have to take a step back and re-evaluate what is and is not important and remember why it is you do what you do. There, also, comes a time when you may have to let somethings (and people) go in order to free up energy and resources. We must all strive to continue growing and giving - even when it hurts, even when it seems senseless, even when it seems unappreciated.

Perseverance is steady persistence in a course of action, a PURPOSE, a state - especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. I'm sure we've all been there and done that, but did you grow from it, did you learn from it, did you become stronger from it? If not, then it was all for naught. Use your struggles as life lessons to learn more about yourself and what you are capable of enduring. Grow stronger, grow wiser and keep moving on. Pass on your wisdom to others that you see going through the same struggles you may have overcome - sometimes it will be appreciated, other times it won't. Do your part and let God handle the rest.

~~~Have a wonderful weekend DIVAS! Be blessed and be a blessing!~~~

Walking in Wisdom

This morning I read a quote in Michelle McKinney Hammond's The Diva Principle that really stuck with me throughout the day: "Wisdom is not just an accumulation of the right information, it is also the ability to apply it to one's life. Perhaps this is why we are encouraged in Scripture to make sure we get an understanding. Understanding cements your commitment to make wise choices and stick with doing the right thing even when you don't feel like it."

The last part of this quote really speaks to me "...and stick with doing the right thing even when you don't feel like it." There are times when every part of me wants to just stoop to the level of those that are trying to bring me down and give them a serious piece of my mind, but something always stops me right before I reach my breaking point. When you walk in wisdom and know that you're above all those naysayers, it makes it easier to take the high road and ignore the ignorance.

So, what exactly is wisdom? And why should I bother walking in it? I used my favorite website (smile!) and googled the word and I like the definition that Wikipedia had listed the best: Wisdom is comprehension of what is right or true coupled with optimum judgement as to action. So, it's an understanding of what is the correct action to take combined with the ability to successfully execute that action. When you put it that way, how else would I want to walk??!?!? Unfortunately there seems to be many people who prefer NOT to walk in wisdom rather to take the same wrong turn or detour over and over and over and over and over and over and...well, you get the point. You probably even know and love someone like that! We all know that really smart person with no common sense at all. Learning new things is of no use if you're unable or unwilling to properly apply it to your life and your circumstances or if you're unwilling or unable to share it with others.

I learned a long time ago that it does not benefit me to be to proud to reject help or advice from someone that has proven them self to be wise in a particular field. I seek out mentors in different aspects of my life so that I can learn from them and exchange ideas. Seeing where they are and learning how they got there, helps to prepare me for the wonderful journey that I am on. I, also, am willing and able to share the knowledge that I have with others that ask for it (and even some that don't). I know there's a reason why I've experienced the things that I have (just as there is a reason YOU have experienced the things you have). I learn from them and share them with those that I feel may benefit from knowing where I have been but most importantly where I am going!

Have a wonderful evening DIVAS!!!

Diva with a Purpose - Momprenuer Extraordinaire

Remember that old saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!" Well, that is one of the first thoughts that come to mind when I think of our first Diva with a Purpose - LaKeisha Thues-Stiff. This work-at-home mommy has a way of turning her passions into purposeful business ventures that motivate others and empower them to make changes in their lives and communities.

Busy, busy, busy are words to describe Keisha's world. The married mother of 5 has her own company, Kiwi Media Group, specializing in social media marketing, web designing, business to business referrals and networking coaching for entrepreneurs and small businesses. She started this company when she was a bored and broke stay-at-home mommy. This diva has combined the love of social networking sites and making money - for herself and others...INGENIOUS :)

I am very excited about her newest project - "Millionaire Momprenuers ~ Be encouraged, Be inspired, Be successful!" It's purpose? To provide "momprenuers" with the support and encouragement they need to balance the life of a full-time parent and a full/part time business owner. As a mommy that is determined to one day work for myself full-time - I am hooked!!!

As if that isn't enough, Keisha and her mother, Venus Mason Thues (author and wife coach) have an online community called Wisdom 4 Wives (W4W). It's mission is to encourage, entertain and empower women through "Pearls of Wisdom" from veteran wives with a focus on our role as The Proverbs 31 Woman. She and her husband, also, have plans to start a t-shirt line for their divas in training - of course a momprenuer would be raising some kidprenuers :)

What I love about Keisha, is that she is willing to share the knowledge that she has and help others who are willing to be helped. She's outspoken and passionate. She's, also, driven and an inspiration to those around her - myself, included. These qualities (and so many more) are all keys to her success as a Momprenuer! Think you can't do the same thing? Wrong!!! With the same drive and determination, you can take your dreams and bring them to fruition. Yes, it will be hard work and you'll probably have some setbacks, but the end results are well worth it all.

Keisha loves networking with other women who have or would like to have their own businesses. She, like myself, loves to pay it forward and help others along the way! Feel free to reach out to her for more information on any of her endeavors.

In closing, some words of wisdom from the diva herself:

· Pray!

· Surround yourself with people that are where you want to be.

· Don’t be afraid to fail, and have the courage to start over

· Networking is the key to success (online and offline)

· Support others projects

· Brand yourself – you want people to be able to recognize your without seeing your face. You want them to see a logo, a phrase, a particular style of writing, signature style and know it’s you.

· Share your knowledge

Let the Journey Begin...

Drive. Determination. Hard-working. Perseverance. Faith. Struggle. Break-through. Village. Helping-hands. Giving back. Family. Sisters. Reliability. These and many other words are very familiar to women that have a defined purpose. Identifying and walking in your purpose can be a very fulfilling – yet challenging – task. Balancing faith, home (significant other and/or children), work (whether out of the home or at home), volunteer work, side hustles (smile!), family, friends and self can be challenging to say the least. It takes lots of energy, time management, patience and prayer! Reaping the rewards, however, is often the most beneficial. Helping another person with the resources, time and talent that you’ve been blessed with is an awesome feeling. I am so blessed to have a circle of women that I’ve crossed paths with over the years that do all of this and much, much, much more!

I would like to take the next few months to introduce you to them one-by-one. They are divas in every since of the word! Dedicated, Inspirational, Victorious, and Aspiring to make a change in their personal lives, families, communities and beyond!!! They are moms, wives, sisters, friends, life coaches, prayer partners, entrepreneurs, inspirational speakers, community activists…I could go on and on and on!

Stay tuned tomorrow for our first Diva with a Purpose (DWP): LaKeisha Thues-Stiff – Momprenuer Extraordinaire!!! I hope you're excited as I am!!!

Purpose

What’s your purpose? Why do you do what you? What drives you? What brings you happiness and satisfaction?

We all should have something that wakes us up each day and gives us that extra uumph to get up and do something productive. If things in your world seem “off” or you just don’t feel motivated to do anything, most times its because you are not walking in your purpose. Many people have no clue what “purpose” is let alone what their specific role is. Purpose can be defined as “the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc” or “an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal”. Whoa!!! That’s a lot to try and swallow at one time. It sounds profound and deep and IT IS! However your life’s purpose doesn’t have to be starting a crusade to feed all the homeless and hungry people. It can be something as simple as tutoring students at a local school in your free time or donating to a local non-profit organization. Your purpose should be something that spurs you to action in a positive way.

Over the next few weeks I will spotlighting some DIVAS I have crossed paths with over the years that are walking with purpose. They are working on bettering themselves, their families, their communities and beyond. Are they perfect – far from it! (Smile!!!) But they have recognized a calling within themselves on some scale and have taken the first steps to a journey that will change themselves and those they encounter.

His Will...His Way...Embrace It! - Part 2

Proverbs 16:9 - "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."

"If [we] make God's glory [our] end, and His will [our] rule, He will direct [our] steps by His Spirit and grace." - Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

I know I'm not the only stubborn person out there! It's not always submitting to God's way, especially when it seems to totally contradict the plans that you may have already set in place. It takes a lot to humble ourselves and submit to His will and ways for our lives. It took me awhile to get to the point where I could give Him total and ultimate control of my life. I'll admit, I was a bargainer. "Lord, if you do this, then I'll do this." "Well, if you want me to do this, then do you mind doing this..." Honestly, we know how well that turned out!

It took Him knocking me around a few times and bringing me through different experiences to realize that I needed to truly Let Go and Let God in order to fulfill the greatness that He had planned for me already. Once I did, WOW!!! I'm loving the journey that He has me on right now. Walking by faith and continuously praying for clarity and direction is opening so many doors for me. While I may not fully understand the direction that God is leading me in, I am excited about the journey.

I encourage you all to embrace His Will...His Way!!!

His Will...His Way...Embrace It

I'll just go ahead and admit it...I have stubborn tendencies. I like things to be done a certain way and if I ask someone to do something and they either don't do it or don't do it correctly, then I'll just do it myself (and make a mental note not to ask them to help again!). Definitely not always a good trait to have.

Over the years I found myself negotiating with God....okay, if You do this, then I'll do this...or if You'll change this person, then I'll change this...well, that didn't really turn out to well. It took a series of events and Him doing some serious chastising and changing of my spirit to realize I needed to get a grip :)

My new life motto is "His Will...His Way...Embrace It".

Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." With this in mind, my prayer is that He directs my path and my thoughts in a way to fulfill the plans He has set up for me. I'm asking for clarity so that I can follow the path He has set up for me. I'm asking for patience when I really, really, really, really want something and it's not my time or just isn't mine to have.

 

As I take this journey, there may be some people and things that I have to let go. I've come to terms with that because people are in our lives for a reason, season or a lifetime. I'm excited about the new friendships that I'll make and the old ones that may be taken to a different level. Overall, I'm excited about the change and renewal of ME.

 

Have a blessed day Divas and Embrace His Will...His Way!!!

Switching Gears

My life has been so unexpectedly unexpected lately that I've had to take some time to just sit back and evaluate where I am, where I want to be and how I want to get there. In the middle of all that I realized that I need to learn to give up and let go of some things...in other words, stop being so darn stubborn and hard headed :)

I'm about to turn 30 in two weeks and my life is no where close to where I expected it to be, but I've finally learned to accept it. In accepting it, I'm also making strides to change things around and complete many of the goals that I've set for myself. I've, also, relinquished control over it all to God. I'm embracing "His Will...His Way".

Over the next few weeks, I will be re-vamping this blog and the direction in which it's going. I will, also, attempt to put more effort into my other blog, Budgeting Divas. This has become one of my passions over the past few years and I want it to be a place where we can come together to help one another and learn from each other. I truly believe in the village concept. The knowledge I have is useless unless I put it to use and share it with someone else.

As for this blog, I will be focusing more on the PURPOSE behind us all. Over the next few weeks I will spotlighting different women in my life that I feel epitomize the "divatude" spirt of giving back, entrepreneurship, and sisterhood.

If you know of a diva that you believe should be spot-lighted, please reach out to me so I can contact them.

Have a wonderful and blessed weekend Divas!

Selfish Moment :)

Okay, many of you know about my adoration (border-line obsession) with Malik Yoba!!! It all began with New York Undercover - one of my absolute favorite shows! If you were a fan and would like to see it back on the air, please send an email of support to malikyoba7@gmail.com with New York Undercover in the subject line. Tell why you want it back or just that you want it back. He's in the process of pushing its production to a network now.

Hope you're all having a wonderful week and please pass this on (if only to bring a smile to my face!!!)

New York Undercover is hands-down my absolute favorite show - even after it's been off the air all these years! To think that it could possibly be brought back on air is so exciting. The show's story lines and musical backdrops were pure genius! Fans celebrated, struggled, laughed, cried, and loved with the characters. To have this show back on the air would be like welcoming a long-lost relative home.

It's Only A Test...

It seems that so many of my family and friends are struggling with so many issues this year. I remember many of them claiming just a few months ago that 2010 was THE year. Big changes, big moves, big faith, big results. What’s happening? We have to remember that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12) The enemy does NOT want us to succeed!!! He takes joy in having us doubt God. When we allow our faith to falter, we allow temptation and doubt to creep in and draw us away from the victorious plans that God has in store for us all.

The words we speak over our lives and our situations have the power to change them. If we continuously speak the negative, then we are focusing on the negative and we will reap the negative. The exact opposite is, also, true. If we continuously speak the POSITIVE, then we are focusing on the POSITIVE and we will reap the POSITIVE!!! A scotoma is defined as a mental “blind spot”. When we reflect on the negative things in our life, then we develop a scotoma or “blind spot” to the wonderful blessings we have. Again, by doing the exact opposite – reflecting on the POSITIVE we will then have a scotoma or “blind spot” to the negative aspects of our situations! We must work to change our thinking. Ask God to give you a spirit of thankfulness and praise. There may be some days when nothing at all seemed to go right, but we can still say “Lord, I thank you for the ability to make it through this day. I know that YOU will not put more on me then I can bear. I know that YOU are my STRENGTH and my HELP. I know that YOU have a greater plan for my life and this is all a stepping stone to get to where I need to be. So, Lord, I THANK you for the trials and tribulations because I now I know that I CAN ENDURE and I can STAND STRONG. Thank you for not allowing me to get into a pity party and giving the enemy victory. I know that MY VICTORY is in CHRIST and for that I THANK YOU!!!”

It’s not always going to be easy, but if we constantly look at the good in our situations then it slowly becomes natural and you will find that the struggles that may have at one time caused you to fall into a depression will bring a smile to your face because you know that GOD can handle it all and He’s given you the strength, knowledge and perseverance to endure. How can you have a testimony without a test? How can you find joy in knowing that God is a provider if you’ve never been without? How can you call Him Comforter if you’ve never needed comforting?

As we go through this week, let us all take the time to focus on all the blessings from God that we have. Find joy in the tests that you come against this week and seek understanding that there is a lesson and a blessing in it all. Perhaps God is working with you to become a better steward of your time, talents and / or finances. Perhaps God is working with blessing you with more patience, understanding, sympathy or compassion for and with others. Whatever it is that you’ve been struggling with take time to speak with God and ask Him to reveal what it is He’s asking of you and walk in victory knowing that this too shall pass in His time and in His way.

Divatude

I'm the first to admit that I am far from perfect. I'm actually way on the other side. Those that know me well know that I am one of the first people to admit my faults and maintain that I am definitely a work in progress. With all that being said, I will admit that I embrace the "divatude" mentality. What is that? Well, for different divas it can mean different things. It's the way I carry myself. It's the smile on my face when life around me seems to be crashing down. It's the inspiration to continue pressing on. It's the sincere love and adoration that I have for my family and close friends. It's the heartbreak I feel when I think of those that are less fortunate, hurting and in despair.

For awhile, I lost that "divatude". I let the circumstances around me bring me down. Things that were out of my realm of control were affecting my walk, my talk, my praise and my spirit. I can't say exactly when it happened, but it was a long and slow process that slowly ate at the essence of who this DIVA is. One day I looked in the mirror and truly did not like what was looking back at me. My eyes no longer had the sparkle that used to be there. I didn't like me. I'm thankful for my two boys. Something about kids will snap you back to reality when you get really down in the dumps. When you look and feel like crap, they'll say or do something to remind you that you really do matter.

It's not going to be an easy process, but I am determined to get my "divatude" back better than ever through prayer, meditation, patience, conversation, and living life to the fullest.

Spirit of Praise

Sometimes it takes something that seems inconsequential to really shake you up & call you to action. I passed an a terrible accident 2 blocks from my job this morning. "Have mercy" I prayed and immediately I began to shed tears. God reminded me that I was upset because I was behind schedule this morning. He reminded me I fussed at my son for moving too slow. He reminded me that my ways and His ways don't always mesh & that I have to yield to His will and His way.

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

There are many things that I and those around me are attempting to accomplish. Sometimes we get frustrated because things do not seem to be moving the way we want them to move, but there are times when God is holding us still so that we won't be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Life Lessons - Purpose

What is it that you want to accomplish? Do you have a clear-cut path for your success or are you just going with the flow? Is there a dream you have that you've shared with no one but you know that one day it will come true? Are you willing to put in the hard work, sweat, tears, and sacrifice to get what it is that you really desire?

There was a time in my life when I had the blue-print for my life laid out. I knew what I was going to do, when, and how...or so I thought. Life happened. I made questionable decisions, took detours and am still traveling down life's path. I'm not where I thought I would be or even where some think I should be, but I am in the right place at the right time for the right purpose. There are times that I get discouraged and disappointed, but I keep pressing on. It is definitely not easy, but I continue to visualize what it is that I want out of life for my boys and for myself. The legacy that I want to leave my children. This thought process helps me stay on track when I stumble or want to throw in the towel.

I encourage others to think about why it is they do what they do. What is your personal purpose in life? What do you want others to say about you when your not around? What do you stand for? Once you can answer these questions, you have something to motivate yourself at times when you may not be around to do so.