Elegance

I just love the elegance and grace that the first Lady Michelle Obama has; she just looks great in her gowns and clothing. I also like the look that Jackie O wore, those polished suits and box hats and kitty shoes, which are back in style. Beautiful first ladies not concerned with titles but just standing by their husbands. I have learned so much from reading about Jackie O and Michelle Obama on how to just conducting yourself as a woman with grace,class and style.

So what exactly is "style", defined in the english dictionary it states " a manner of doing something" or "design or make in a particluar form". I think each individual has his or her own style. Me personally I love my wardrobe with the pencil skirts, tailored jackets and kitty shoes, have not quite got the pill hat, but I will adorn my crown with a cloak hat. How fabulous that Michelle Obama takes something from H&M or J Crew and makes it her own style. Which speaks volume that one does not have to wear a $300.00 suit to look good.

So whatever your style or look that works for you wear it with class and elegance don't worry about what others say. You have your own style and wear it well! Fabuloso (spanish)

Beautiful Bride

I love what I do, My job is to make people happy on their special day. The days leading up to the event can be busy & stressful for the bride, so my job is to ease the stress. I am happy my business is prospering. Have I learned alot? Yes. Each event that I do, I am writing down little gliches that happen. This makes it alot easy for the next wedding, party, bar mitzvah for me and my team.

Although my job is so much more than keeping the stress down. We have alot to accomplish, make list of things to do, keep the budget under control and deal with the families involved. Not only can a wedding coordinator offer you just that, We can also provide the rules for proper wedding etiquette. When the bride or couple initially meet with me, I will most likely bring to mind decisions that they weren’t aware they would have to make. Like when wedding party need to get in to the sanctuary/lobby to line up for ceremony entrance. What time rehearsal begins, changing rooms, stage needs, who is ushering etc..We also coordinate with musician(s) for cues during ceremony and set the stage for a beautiful day.

So that is my Job, but you know what I love what I do.

Happy

Recently I have been exploring what Happiness is and I can truly say that Iam HAPPY. Can you buy happiness from your local grocer? NO. Being Happy has to be something that is within you. Happiness is a choice you have to make. I have decided that I will have happiness and live a peaceful life.


What makes me happy is now that the weather is cooling down, it’s a good time to be outside enjoying nature. In fact, some say that autumn is the best time of the year for being outdoors (at least for me it's cooler). Apple picking, taking long walks with hubby, sipping a great cup of java or cider talking with  friends makes me happy. Laughing is something I love doing hearing a great joke or just being around my family & friends who love to laugh, and have positive attitudes is beautiful. 

So what can cause someone to be unhappy. FORGIVENESS It’s impossible to get through life without being hurt by someone you love or care about ok! we have all experienced this. Rather than harbor a grudge or resentment, let it go forgive those who hurt you. Forgiveness ends quarrels, eases pain, restores peace, and promotes inner health. I have learned it simply takes much more energy to be mad at someone, let that thing go and live a healthy life. Life is so precious and God has blessed you and I with long life and that is what we want. So get rid of the stinking thinking it cant live here no more. There is power in positive thinking it can change and improve your life. Maintaining positive thinking and attitude will drive you to success and happiness.

Ouch!

Weddings can be very stressful on everyone involved in the beautiful day. The bride has planning and decision making that takes a toll on her emotionally. The family on both sides want to be involved which can become chaotic. With that being said I was checking my email when I came across this article of a step-mom who sent her future daughter-in-law a disturbing email on her manners? Wow! I thought she really said what was bothering her. So let's talk; for all you brides and brides to be what do you think. Family can and could be involved in your future nuptials; because you are marrying into another family and in some cases a different culture. So what do you do when first impressions don't turn out so impressionable with your furture in-laws. How does this behavior affect the future marriage of the happy couple.

 Speak to me ladies was this Mom-zilla a little to forward? read snippets of the email below and let me know. I guess first impressions is taking very serious in this household and should, but when does it go to far. There's no denying it's harsh, but if you've ever been in the line of fire in a wedding party, you know that sometimes marriage anxieties strike darkness in the hearts of man. What do you think......ouch!

from: Carolyn Bourne
to: heidi withers
subject: your lack of manners

Here are a few examples of your lack of manners:

When you are a guest in another's house, you do not declare what you will and will not eat - unless you are positively allergic to something.

You do not remark that you do not have enough food.

You do not start before everyone else.

You do not take additional helpings without being invited to by your host.

When a guest in another's house, you do not lie in bed until late morning in households that rise early - you fall in line with house norms.

You should never ever insult the family you are about to join at any time and most definitely not in public. I gather you passed this off as a joke but the reaction in the pub was one of shock, not laughter.

You regularly draw attention to yourself. Perhaps you should ask yourself why. No one gets married in a castle unless they own it. It is brash, celebrity style behaviour.

I understand your parents are unable to contribute very much towards the cost of your wedding. (There is nothing wrong with that except that convention is such that one might presume they would have saved over the years for their daughters' marriages.)

If this is the case, it would be most ladylike and gracious to lower your sights and have a modest wedding as befits both your incomes.

One could be accused of thinking that Heidi Withers must be patting herself on the back for having caught a most eligible young man. I pity Freddie.

Hat Day.

Ladies!!! my church is having a Hat Day...yeah! You get to wear your most fabulous hat and just look great with your beautiful self. For many woman looking your best from head to toe is imperative going to church, and some of the woman I have seen their hat game is serious. Nowadays it is often the more elder African American woman who dress up with hats on Sunday morning. To many of these women and their ancestors, dressing up for church was a good feeling for them they are looking their best for the Lord.  I would remember my grandmother (Mo. Alice Daniels) would wear her hat, white gloves, handbag and be sharp. That was her way I guess of celebrating from wearing aprons all week taking care of  seven children, cooking, cleaning,  and working in the fields - so on Sunday those garments were replaced by bright colors, fancy shoes and elaborate hats that would stand out in a crowd. Style and sophistication would rule the day.

Now the hat cannot be just any hat; shopping requires serious effort before choosing the correct hat that worked an outfit. Most woman will visit their favorite shops or boutiques for that special different hat, and some are humongous but  they caught your eye....watch out now! The hats are the show stopper to the outfit giving it the Oooh! look at her. Most woman want to look stunnning regardless of where they tread their feet, but its something about Sunday morning girlfriend they must have it together. Although the culture and tradition still remains elder African American woman would not be caught without their hats on Sunday morning.

So join us for our Hat Day come hear an awesome word from God, fellowship with beautiful people, and wear your best hat as we celebrate our stunning selves. I would advise anyone to come early so you can get a seat up front because with the hats that day sitting in the back will not be good for you....lol.

 

Summer Time.

Summer weather is near and with that season brings the three H's - hazy, hot, humid  ugg! bad on the hair & very hot in the house to prepare meals. So what do you do when its blazing hot in the kitchen & turning on the oven/stove makes you sweat more? BBQ! yes fire up the grill partner. Their are many recipes for grilling wonderful meals to prepare for your friends & family.  Did you know that grilling is one of the most popular methods of cooking.  Nowadays you can grill almost anything from corn on the cob, to fire roasted red peppers, which can also bring those veggies to a whole new level. I was reading that grilling vegetables make the natural sugars in the food become carmelized, which adds a natural flavor to them.

 I myself plan on experiencing grilling different foods other than meat. I bought these cast iron individual cooking pans (psst....HSN) and I will be putting macarooni & cheese in them and bake them on the grill, of course I will blog on the outcome I know they are going to be delicious.

So now that your mouth is watering why not enjoy your backyard, get some different recipes together, step away from the regular and really delight your guest and family. Let me know what's your favorite food to grill and make in your backyard BBQ; I would love to hear from you. Share your recipes with me I always enjoy sharing information. Happy Summer in Romanian "Multumesc de vară Happy"

Take the stress out of planning!

This summer I have so many parties, BBQ's, tasting-parties that I am preparing for; so I was looking for ways to take the stress out of planning. Let's talk woman we love entertaining others I surely do. Actually I like the fact that people visit and we eat, laugh and enjoy each others company. Recently my family and I got together for Mother's day at my Moms home and we laughed and laughed with such joy. I was actually missing that with my family, I must admit I had gotten away from that, but I realized family is so important.

So Party Planning...... how was this a stress free gathering? I truly didn't get too fussy. Even a special dinner party should seem casual and fun for everyone. The dinner we had was chinese food nothing major.

Although if you are throwing a bigger party with more guest I would suggest; to save preparation time, set your table the night before your dinner party this gives you more time to get glamorous.  Don’t spend a fortune on flowers.  Just a few low arrangements, along with some candles or even fresh fruit, make a table look fabulous. Also keep your menu simple--elaborate menus with fancy dishes that may take a few hours to prepare.

You will probably need help!  recruit some friends, siblings or even your mom to assist in the preparations any help that is going to lighten the load for you, should be welcomed. Pay close attention to your details this makes a big difference. Your guests may not notice every last thing you’ve done, but they will realize they’re experiencing something special & really appreciate you opening up your home to them.  Last just have fun laughter is amazing and it helps so much so relax, smile and enjoy your company. Amize means "have fun" in Haitian Creole

Elegant Planning affair.

Last night Elegant Planning had an even it was wonderful. The Birthday lady was so surprised and the family looked great. I love helping clients with their affairs it brings such a joy to me; knowing that they were happily satisfied customers. Just to see the faces of everyone enjoying themselves laughing and talking. The praise dancer was a blessing, she danced with such grace. While being a planner you must be dedicated to your clients, making sure they are well attended & pleased with your help. Just a quick tip for me wear flat shoes.

Sweet Dreams!

I am a  (Zealot) or stickler on pampering and relaxing. Coming home from work we cook, clean do homework with your children etc....When the time comes to relax the laptop is shut, the dishes are done, you have tucked the kids in. So now it's time to take a deep breath and relax with some "me time". If you have not already done this or you considering try making your bedroom your place of peace.

   First step in preparing your peaceful environment. Always try to keep some reading material at your bedside. Reading is good for the soul you expand your mind; try reading the Bible, a good book or magazine some have great articles.

  Next try and clear the area around your bed of anything that doesn't speak peace, delight you or relax you. I like doing my nails at night that delights me. I get one of those small tables that fold away & set up my own manicuring station. This small spa has everything I need nail clippers, cuticle nippers, creams for hands & heels. This relaxes me and my hands look pretty good for a home spa....LOL

 Another way to relax and unwind is right before bed cozy up with a cup of herbal tea-- as you are sipping take out your journal and jot down what you are thankful for. This always helps end the day on a good note.

Although this is my  favorite take a long bath then spray your clean linen with a delicately scented linen spray and have soothing tunes with the sound of the ocean playing OMG! works for me everytime.

Whatever you enjoy doing to relax before bed always make sure you PRAY this is the best relaxation. Talk to GOD.  I always speak to my saviour letting him know what went on that day, and what I can do to make the next day better.  "oiche mhaith" means Goodnight in Irish Galic.

Spring is here!

Spring is here the birds are singing, flowers are blooming, the weather is great and the sun is shining. I absolutely love this season the weather is nice not to hot or to cold. I was reading that in spring, the axis of the Earth is increasing its tilt toward the sun and the length of daylight increases which give us longer days -  yeah! more time to soak up some sun.  In my yard the flowers were pushing their way through the ground even in cold weather. Creation waits for nothing! Spring is seen as a time of growth,  and renewal of new life for plants my husband planted some tulips bulbs in the yard last year in the fall, and they have sprung looking fabulous.  Also, did you know that animals are born just this time of the year?  Rabbits and deer are born in the spring and some birds.

Spring is also the season for new fashion trends. All you  fashionistas should keep up to date with the latest trends of the season. I have been perusing the magazines seeing what is looking good for spring 2011.  Ladies we always want to look our best. The awesome part of spring fashion is that you can look in your closet and pull out those nice bright colors, and put away those dark ones. Something about wearing colorful attire like coral, yellow, pink and white that just seems to brighten your day and attitude. Let's enjoy Spring get outside have fun plant some flowers, wear a bright color to work tomorrow and have a wonderful day. " forårssæson" means Spring Season in Danish.

Eclectic!

We all have different ways of being stylish and fashionable. I was looking at various homes and the many decor; and the word that stood out to me was ECLECTIC. The word eclectic defined is: not following any one system, something made up from different sources.  Eclectisim has been on the rise lately and becoming very popular. I would consider my home eclectic my furniture does not match-- am I wrong? No that is my style -  and just me being different. Does everyone like the norm...humm? Of course their are different styles; like contemporary, modern, country and traditional those are still great ways to create a home.

In today's design there are ways to join the most unlikely elements in a way that makes them work together to create a very unique space. So explore the stores be creative have fun with your home. When decorating choose what you love, buy what you can afford and follow your own style rather than what is the latest. Over time you will have a beautiful masterpiece of a home that is a true reflection of who you are.

If you ask me ask me my decorating style I would say; I have a eclectic style, meaning I like a little bit of this, and a little bit of that.  "etre bien"  means be well in French

What happen to Television?

Was laying in my bed after waking from a four hour nap after church, on this beautiful day the Lord has made....Yes four hours I was tired! Iam watching the TV LAND awards and was just touched on all the old shows that I would watch all the time.  The Cosby Show, Facts of Life, Family ties, Welcome back Kotter, Good Times, television is just not the same. When we watched TV back in the 80's and 90's their was shows that displayed family, friendship, love, and unity. Some of these shows had teaching moments. Kids and teens today between the ages of 8 to 18 years spend nearly 4 hours a day in front of a TV screen and almost 2 additional hours on the computer (outside of schoolwork) and playing video games. Now I see their are making a new show about DIVORCE and the reason the couple is divorcing is because the husband came out of the closet. Has anybody watched the show Glee let's not even go their about those children....Hello what's going on. Is this what are children are propelled to watch. I am just saying what happen their is nothing good on TV that displays family anymore. The new families have to many issues and just to much going on. Speak to me people I would love to hear from you. "Slán go fóill"- means Goodbye for now in Irish Gaelic.

Rest!

Why is it we often don't take the time to rest when our Creator himself did? is it because we think we don't deserve it, can't afford to or don't think it can help? Do we come home from work still stewing about a difficult day. Yes...some of us do, we bring work and what happen at work to our front door and just invite that negative energy right into our homes.  Then the enemy just turns things upside down you and your spouse is fighting and don't know why. Our homes is suppose to be our haven of peace.  Most of the problem isn't that we can't rest; rather we just don't always choose or take the time to rest, especially time to rest in the Lord.  Before I got acclimated with God and seemed steal a moment to sit and relax, I would have a sense of work needing to be done, an urgency to do something, thoughts of issues needing to be resolved or a feeling of guilt.  Do you ever experience this? Many of us are struggling to keep our heads above water, trying to juggle work, finances, family and friends, along with living a healthy and righteous life. We feel we can't add one more thing to our plate without breaking down or breaking something. The Word of God says in Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. So what is the problem? I think just we don't spend enough time with the Lord, telling him our burdens going into the private place and praying.  Matthew 6:6 but you when you pray, go into your room and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Praying is away of letting things go giving it to the Lord and resting in Him. Even Jesus went away and prayed; Luke 5:16 So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed. The key word in the passage is "often" meaning many times. Why wait until you are at a point of cracking before you seek the Lord for rest go to him "often" as many times as needed. So go ahead rest take sometime off from work and kick your heels up, soak in the tub in the evening with a good book. I was reading that it only takes three minutes for skin to prune in the tub! I am sure we have all done that. So go ahead prune, visit a spa, read, go for long walk. Take the time to go off alone and commune with the Lord through his Word and through prayer. "La Paz" means peace in Spanish.

Enemy attack...warning

  The enemy attacks us, how some might ask?. You may know the assailant well or you may not, could be a family member, friend, co-worker, just someone in the parking lot at the store. Who ever the enemy uses we must be ready. The word of God says: Ephesians 6:11 Put on God's whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.  Any attack would be putrid: a backstab, a dis, a verbal snipe, slander just an outright attempt by the enemey to remove your head & knock you off your game. Whatever its method, the aim is quick and dirty; you look down to discover a slow leak of blood forming a red pool at your feet, you have been hit.  But we are victorious & standing firm with the our feet shod prcolaiming the word of God.

  Often I tell brides to be on the alert during their wedding because the enemy knows we are emotional creatures. Because getting married is a major life transition, it is natural to experience high levels of emotion. So the enemy will send out his darts aiming straight for the brides heart. Sometimes through family, mother, sister, wedding party whomever to get her off the focus that this is from God. 

  If we completely ignore the spiritual realm and the fact that the Bible tells us our battle is against spiritual powers we will be lost.  So how? First, we rely on God’s power, not our own. Second, we rebuke in Jesus’ Name, not our own there is no power in that!. Third, we protect ourselves with the full armor of God.  And we wage warfare with the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God (as stated above). We know how Jesus handled attacks from Satan when He was tempted by him in the wilderness Matthew 4:1-11.  Each temptation was answered the same way; with the words “It is written.” Jesus knew the Word of God is the most powerful weapon against the devil. If Jesus used the Word to fight the devil, do we dare use anything less? "Guds ord" means word of God in Swedish Have a wonderful day!!!!

Modesty...

What is Modesty and why is it so important for the woman to understand, dress & behave modestly?  Definition: modesty is the voluntary personal responsibility to behave & dress in such a manner as to not purposely draw attention to oneself, to not think proudly of oneself and it's a decision to protect from purposeful or "unintended" enticement in inappropriate ways & places. First we're representatives of the LORD Jesus Christ and secondly, if we're married, we are a reflection of our husband. I tell my husband that all the time. Ladies even on your wedding day, we must remeber that we are getting married, for his eyes only! This the most not talked about topic among women today. Why is something that is commanded in Scripture even questioned by God's people? hmmm...Although there is much to be said concerning this issue I will keep it short and sweet. I am not a novist/or a fashion consultant I know what I espy daily be it at work, church, in the grocery store, mall etc.  How tight is too tight? how short is too short? how low is too low?” my question today is “What is God´s best for you to wear?” what does God´s Word say:  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 1 Timothy 2:9-10.


As woman we love to look good and there is nothing wrong with that. We are beautiful and our beauty should be shown on the inside as well as the outside. So when we are picking attire to wear we should be choosen clothing that is age appropriate, and adequately sized. Trust me it is very important that we pay attention to the message and signal our clothing is sending. So ladies dress your best and wear what is most accomodating for you. We can dress professional and still look amazing. We are fabulous and must be consious of our attire not just at church, but work and were ever we tread our feet. We are woman hear us roar...please don't roar but you can purrr! you are beautiful -" tu es belle" in french.

Bridesmaids....

Yesterday I spoke on the ringbearer. Today I want to speak on a subject that most woman find difficult in deciding sometimes. Choosing a bridsemaid, the question is always posed "should I have my sister, cousin, bestfriend, and I don't want to step on anybody's toes".  Let's define the bridesmaid, she is an unmarried woman who attends to the bride on her wedding day.  Bridesmaid and Maid of Honor help in planning the wedding and also helping the bride coordinate details for the wedding day.  More than that a bridesmaid and/or maid-of-honor serves a practical purpose. During the hectic time of planning a wedding, she is a confidant, advice giver, giving support, errand runner and much more. A bride should have at least one bridesmaid who is very reliable, cheerfully helpful, organized, and who lives close to the bride. I would suggest praying about who you choose it helps! because a good bridesmaid also makes sure she is helpful rather than a hindrance. This means being where she needs to be on time, ordering her bridesmaid dress at the right time, and just making sure everything flows for the bride. 

There is a considerable expenses involved in being a bridesmaid, which includes cost of dress, shoes, and hosting the wedding shower or bachelorette party. Who ever you choose make sure they are going to be responsible and dedicated to helping you, this truly means alot in such an emotional time for the bride. I thank God  for the two woman who attended my wedding, because they were so dedicated, helpful,  loving supportive, Love the Lord and the best thing was the HOLY SPIRIT lead me in my decision. Har velsignet dag means "Have Blessed day" in Norwegian.

Ringbearer!

So you think all you need to know about Ring Bearers is - how to choose one, to getting him ready to do a great job, and finding an adorable outfit or suit..Maybe! The ringbear let's define he or she job?
Depending on the location, religion, and style of the wedding, the wedding party may include only the individual people that are marrying, or it may include one or more brides, grooms (or bridegrooms), persons of honor, bridespersons, best man, groomsmen, flower girls, and ringbearers.
The ringbearer is the cutie pie that holds the ring usually a small boy, sometimes a little girl, who walks down the aisle as part of the bridal procession carrying an ornamental cushion with ring fastened to cushion. The ringbearer does not necessarily have to carry a cushion, the bride can be creative. I had my nephew holding a long stem silver rose that open up on the top. Ok! so here is the scenerio you have two little men that you want to use.  If you are having trouble choosing between the two ring bearers, there's no reason why you can't have them both. Give them each a ring to carry and send them down the aisle together. Some ringbearers seem to have nervousness on the day of nuptials, I would recommend seating his parents on the aisle, near the front so that he can see them when he walks down the aisle and during the ceremony itself, which gives him assurance of knowing once I reach my parents this is all over...LOL.  What should they wear? Some people love the look of "mini-groomsmen" where the ring bearer wears a tiny tuxedo matching the groomsmen. I had my ringbearer matching my husband he was so cute. Whom ever you choose, have fun with it do your wedding in your style and just remember some of the tips listed." Hagoonea" - goodbye in Navajo Indian.

Ring bearer throws ring!

Some people see walking takes too long, But I say with walking you can’t go wrong, Why should you rush away trough life?You won’t get there if you’re running all the time.

I was listening to the lyrics to this song (walking by Mary Mary) this morning and it hit me, they were saying; "how you doing, how you doing, how you doing  bye bye" meaning I am walking with God. Do we learn to walk with God in the same way that we learned to walk as babies? I remember teaching my nieces to walk and the walking was mostly by trial and error, standing across the room from them, and them taking wobbly footsteps towards us (family) as we called them from the distance. God says the same to us "Come to Daddy," and we keep falling down repeatedly as we try to get it right? trying to stand up but keep falling down.

There is not an area or detail in our life that God will not be willing to help us out with – no matter how small or trivial we think it may be, but keep walking with HIM and towards HIM. Their will be things to come and throw us off and hinder the walk, but just keep moving.  God sends help...oh yes he does!, the Holy Spirit is called “the Helper” in the Bible, which mean it is now His job to help you in every area of your life. So what hinders our walk?  the multiplicity of things in our lives get in the way of our walk with God. They take time and energy that we don't have to waste. We need to be praying that our walk is straight and we are diligent in following, listening and being obedient. How do we do this?  Prayer, Jesus spent long hours in prayer: Luke 6:12: "And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." This is perhaps the the most neglected part of our walk. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says to "pray without ceasing".  I am walking, talking and spending time with the Lord and me personally I can't let nothing stop my walk and neither should you.  What did the song say?  " how you doing, how you doing, how you doing, bye bye.

Mary Mary - Walking

Beautiful Women....

All around the world their are many different wedding gowns. Though many wedding traditions are specific to culture, one component of the ceremony remains universal: the beautiful dress of the bride. Some of the colors are exuberant and gorgeous to look upon. Many wedding dresses are different in variations in areas like the country, religion, tribe and the overall design, pattern. These versions of the wedding gown are also as beautiful as the accustomed white bridal gown, and are almost more interesting since these are not actually seen as much in american weddings. Western wedding dresses are usually wedding white which includes creamy colored shades such as eggshell, ecru, and ivory or "diamond white" which was my dress color. The colors of cultural wedding gowns have various meanings, some of the colors are universal such as purple for royalty or white for purity and so on. However what ever your culture or religion wear your dress! walk the aisle with beauty and grace, go on with your fabulous self.... "Al Vida" (which means good bye in Hindi) Have a blessed day.

Africa: colors and patterns are worn that represent their village.
China: Red, thats their color which represents to them joy & luck.
Japan: White silk kimono lined in red which symbolizes happiness & new beginning.
India: Silk Sari emroidered with many jewels, beads.
Irish: In Ireland, blue is the color of the brides.

Don't be discouraged. God is at work!

Every woman desire is to marry and start a family. I know that was my desire, I never really spoke of how God had to purge me and still is from a controlling spirit...Superwoman I can do it on my own....Yeah ok!  but in the process I learned somethings, got free from somethings, let of somethings go. I realized and grasped from my Pastor Tarran I could not enter a marriage with that spirit. There was issues within me that God was working out, and know He is not finished with me yet.... Philippians 1:6 (Amplified Bible)And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that goodwork] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.

God will complete what He starts we need to just give Him some time. I have learned that we will never be able to please God just on our own efforts, but through Jesus Christ and His work in you, We WILL become what God desires us to be. God is working on me and He always does a excellent job, but God is not finished yet. So let God have his perfect way and believe me everything will work out.  Au revoir! (French for Goodbye)

Philippians 2:13 (Amplified Bible)[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.

Elegant Planning: Enough is enough!

Elegant Planning: Enough is enough!: "The enemy has been fighting folk! yes I said folk...we tend to find comfort in medicine, therapy, or someone giving us wrong advice. Th..."

Enough is enough!

The enemy has been fighting folk! yes I said folk...we tend to find comfort in medicine, therapy, or someone giving us wrong advice. The best medicine of all is the word of God. Not sure why I am blogging this but someone needs to know that, the cure is not in your medicine chest. We have all tried various types of pills to cure a headache, backache, big toe ache what ever aches. Let's try God I have learned over the years and with me working in the medical field & pharmacy that their is a pill for almost everything. But what about a aching heart umm! have not seen that one on the shelf. God's Word is medicine — for any weakness or sickness in body, mind, finances, family, marriage, etc.  Like any medicine, God's Word must be taken to be effective. It will not work sitting on the shelf. And it has to be taken according to the directions you must complete the dose, take once or several times daily. The more of God's medicine you take, the better you will start to feel and the aches and pains, worries will diminish, thats a lifetime guarantee; not 7-10day as noted on medicine bottle. If we will follow God's directions as faithfully as you would follow the directions of a doctor and the medicine prescribed, we will see wonderful results.

PROVERBS 4:20-23 NKJ
20 My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the ssues of life.

Have my cake and eat it too.

I love love love wedding cakes, for the designs, taste and orginality. So ladies lets take poll when you were (or are) picking out your wedding cake do you ask the groom for his opinion?....let me guess you don't. Ok..we can tell from the picture that this blushing bride felt the same way. Through the years, the wedding cake has become the focus of a variety of  wedding customs and traditions. I was reading that in back in Roman Empire the bride and groom would use a loaf of barley bread, the groom would eat some and break the remaining bread over brides head. Could you imagine this groom breaking this cake over her head. Ladies lets be fair and share that special day, at least let him pick the flavor of the cake!  Dia dhuit (means: God be with you in Irish Gaelic I am learning for my trip to Ireland...lol)

Beauty....

What is beauty? I know we have heard some say "Beauty is only skin deep" which means that a person can be gorgeous on the the outside but ugly on the inside. Physical attractiveness is about how one looks, whereas beauty includes much more of who a person is their character and integrity. Now, stop for a minute and think about it. When you hear or say the phrase, "She is beautiful," is it made in reference to what is on the outside or the inside? Very sad to know that culture and the media has taken the definition of beauty, and twisted woman and young girls minds into thinking beauty is surface. Woman think they must have the latest and greatest haircut, implants, botox, wrinkle creams etc....Eventually physical beauty will fade over time, but true beauty (virtue) is timeless that will never fade. Let's stop looking on the surface on what we think true beauty is suppose to look like. We are all beautiful woman and all the maybelline, revlon, mac and clinique can't change the beautiful woman of God we are, those products may enhance but true beauty is within. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised" (Prov. 31:30).

Splash of Color!

Recently some of the brides that I have talked with express that they would love to wear colorful shoes with their gowns! I love the idea....This trend is one of my favorites, it adds that splash of color and unexpectancy. There really aren't any rules these days with bridal attire, your dress and shoes should reflect your taste and comfort. Ivory wedding shoes are the traditional shoes that brides wear, but the modern brides are opting for other colors like the red, and blue satin shoes or something different than the usual white and ivory. Also blue shoes can add a very nice detail to the traditional "something blue".  Colorful shoes make a statement. Ok! you are going down the aisle in a coloful peep toe pump gorgeous! But remember the shoes are hidden and not causing a distraction, you would not want the focus to be on your shoes, but that beautiful gown and your fabulous self. Remember it's a surprise under that flowing gown...shhh! until after the ceremony then you can dance the night away in those shoes.

I love the fact the brides are different this makes them unique just be yourself. Once the wedding is over you can dye them another color. So go ahead and shop for that beautiful pair of shoes.

Get off the couch!

It's that time of the year! vacation.....time start to planning were the family destination will be, when the family will be going. What is the definition of vacation humm?  period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel. Sometimes we get so caught up in things we forget that our bodies need rest. My husband and I get excited about vacation if we decide to go away excitement, if we choose to turn our backyard into a retreat excitement! no matter what still vacation...So get your laptops out, Ipads, computer and start formulating. Stop by your local travel agency to get ideas and brochures or just to ask questions. If you are going out of the country, study the country before you go.....my Pastor Tarran taught the congregation that you need to know what is going on.  Start making preparation with the family there are many great bargains out their. Last year me and my husband caught the ferry from orient point to Connecticut and drove the remaining trip to Maine. We stayed at a darling B&B this place was great! Just being on the ferry relaxing listening to the ocean getting away was beautiful and refreshing, which also cut most of the driving time. So get off the couch get in motion, get excited.

You are a diamond!

Diamonds go through so much processing to make them into the beautiful gem today. I was studying and reading that diamonds are created 50 mile below the surface of the earth. The hardest substance known to man, the most popular gemstone of all time, and everybody knows....that diamond's are a girls best friend!.....Imagine the pressure. Imagine the darkness. Imagine the isolation. Imagine the distance from anyone who would ever appreciate the process or even discover that they were there. And all the while, the refining goes on until an outside force declares “That’s enough” and the release and retrieval, the digging of the stones begin.

The master craftsman cuts away the impurities and imperfections and begins the arduous process of faceting, so that at every possible angle of light is reflected. A diamond is cut in the shape you see for one reason...so that all light entering the stone, from any direction, will be transmitted out the top of the stone. This is what makes a diamond brilliant. The final polish produces a diamond as nearly perfect as any jewel on earth and certainly more loved than any other.

And so it is with Christians. Those who suffer the greatest pressure, the most agonizing trials, the severest losses, the battlefield of the mind, and the most debilitating infirmities, are being carefully formed by the One who Himself crafts His saints, His diamonds, the darlings of His care. We are cut, carved, crafted, and polished into the wonderful people of God.....sheer brilliancey.

Change....

Recently I went to the beauty parlor and the beautician cut my hair in error, granted she was very busy that day, and the salon was undergoing major renovation. I know that's no excuse but I was a little angry, but laughing and said I just wont go back. But after I got home my husband would not stop laughing saying the back of my hair looks like a math problem very asymmetrical...lol I realized that from that error it bought change, eventually I had to cut the back of my hair very short to match the other side that she cut very uneven, which gave me a cute bob cut. I was not ready for my hair to be that short, but I accepted the change, and liked it! Sometimes we are afraid of change maybe its a new job, lifestyle, appearance whatever. Change is good if we just roll with it, God will work it out in your favor. I am a firm believer that God will not put nothing on me that I can't bear, So if God wants me to change somethings, I will definately listen to his voice. We tend think it's for bad, but God turns it for good. Embrace change and whatever the situation the change will embrace you and you will love it.

Smell the Roses.

Saturday is one of the most busiest days of the week. Everyone is hustling and bustling getting things done  like cooking, shopping, cleaning, soccer, dance lesson with the kids. My saturday is spent today first thing this morning going to florist with client to view sample arrangement for upcoming event, banking, preparing for a tasting party this evening, baking for church bake sale tomorrow, cooking dinner I could go on. But when I was riding in my car I smelled the aroma of sweetness coming from my back seat. The sample centerpiece that the florist gave us was giving the greatest aroma their are orchids, hydrangea and four different ROSES! So in the midst of me driving and sipping coffee, talking on speaker phone, it hit me slow down, I even took my foot of the excelerator! We never stop to smell the roses or for the lack of better words just SLOW DOWN and enjoy life. The sweet smelling fragrant in our lives is the aroma of our Lord Jesus Christ, so why are we not smelling this lovely fragrance? we are busy, plain and simple. Take time today and smell the roses. As for me I am relaxing and smelling the fragrance of this lovely centerpiece and spending time with the Lord.

Declutter & simplify

We all know that Spring is here and we should be "Spring Cleaning",  How many of us really buckle down get the pail, mop, cleaning solution and clean, reorganize the closet, the cupboard? show of hands please. When we really look over our homes is their anything that is cluttered that we need to give away to charity, get rid of it, start something new this year wahoo!. Well when you are looking over your homes, check your spiritual inventory the word of God says  "Let a man EXAMINE himself".  So you might be saying how do I do this?Set aside a special time to begin your inventory.“ Schedule an appointment with yourself. Set aside a day or a weekend to get alone with God! Clear your mind of the present hassles of daily life.   
“Happy are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8)

You may say were do I start? Analyze your past honestly do a “searching and fearless moral inventory,” you must step out of your denial! “Let us examine our ways and test them.” (Lamentations 3:40) 

 Keep your inventory balanced! don't just look at all the bad things of your past. As you compile your inventory, you will find that you have done some harmful things to yourself and others that you were unaware of. No one’s inventory (life) is flawless. We have all “missed the mark” in some area of our lives.  Although in recovery we are not to dwell on the past, but we need to understand it so we can begin to allow God to change us. Jesus told us, “My purpose is to give life and life more abundantaly (John 10:10). One thing that has always helped me was to journal, I write things down all the time. My Pastor ( Pastor Tarran Carter) has taught the woman of Precious Jewels (which is awesome 2nd Tuesday of every month 7pm) to journal. So let's start the clean up mind, body and soul, and yes the house ladies declutter & simplify, remove everything that is a hinderance to your walk with God spiritually and physically.

Have a Blessed day......for more informationon Precious Jewels see below Ciao!

Pastor Tarran Carter

Perfecting Praise Ministries

43C Main st

Hempstead, NY 11550

Precious Jewels 

Do you!

How many of us have been to weddings and seen center pieces that make you say...umm! that's nice - or umm! that's different. I think being different is wonderful. Psalm 139:14 we are fearfully and wonderfully made. ... According to this Scripture, you truly are a Master Piece! an original. So when planning that event be yourself who said we had to go with the traditional centerpieces, or a traditional wedding. Your wedding decor should be a reflection of you and your grooms personality (yes! ladies you have to include him in the decor). Your home decor should be a reflection of your personality. My husband choose our wedding favor which was these measuring spoons so cute with different saying on each spoon, why? because we both love to bake. So have funning planning that special day or just a dinner party for some close friends either way enjoy it.

Joy

Its a new day, God is good and as I have seen on some T-shirts "Life is good". I am excited about what is to come. I love this bathroom so different I am thinking of adding a chandelier over my tub for that added ambiance, we ladies need that feeling of beauty, relaxation, lavishing and their is nothing wrong with it (longs as we dont make it our all). "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God  1 John 3:1 We have a father who provides all of our needs so ladies enjoy. Stop searching for acceptance and approval from others when God longs to lavish you with His?  Lean back enjoy your life start decorating that house, the bedroom, bathroom and most of  all Lavish on God's Love. If you have any decorating ideas or need any help call me.

Must-Have Spring Beauty Loot »

Must-Have Spring Beauty Loot »

Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning

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FA10_Trends_TopTrends_BO_SP-640x480

JK Wedding Entrance Dance

Planning

I have weddings, Birthdays, tasting parties that are coming up fast! whats a girl to do...I must have a plan right? umm...that will work. Busy this year doing everything I wanted to do but never had the desire to carry it out. I am doing weddings, I have a 70th Birthday bash that I am coordinating & planning, I Love it this what I always wanted to do and I finally realized it takes get up and go to carry out what I have desired, God has blessed me with strength and the will, he said I just need a little help from you a little boost...lol. I have realized that God will give you the desires of your heart but we must also me proactive in what our desires are.