These were words I read the other day in my devotion. To be honest, I never thought of prayer that way before. As a privilege?? Hmmm, nope never considered that.
Then, I started to think about it. I came to the realization that prayer is one of the greatest privileges God has ever allowed. How so??
Well think about it this way: On your job, there’s a hierarchy, right? There’s probably employees, associates, coordinators, managers, regional managers, assistant directors, directors, executives, chief executives, and then a big boss. Maybe a VP, and then a President…Follow my conjecture, will you?
Okay,given that you yourself are not the VP or the President, to be able to “talk” to those people you would probably have to have good reason, right? AND even if you had good reason, you’d have to follow protocol by going up the ladder first, and should you be cleared on those levels, THEN and only then would you be able to “schedule” a meeting with a “higher-up.” And finally, that meeting must be approved.
It would have to go something like that, don’t you think?
Well, here’s what I realized. God is the BIGGEST, most powerful, most reigning, sovereign “higher up” there is. And guess what??
There’s no protocol for reaching Him. You don’t have to go through other people. You don’t have to schedule a meeting and pray he accepts the appointment.
You simply have to humble your heart and speak. It’s amazing.
If that itself doesn’t make you feel privileged, then I am not sure what will.
I take prayer for granted, I won’t lie to you about that. I didn’t view it as a luxury, or anything worth distinction… BUT it truly is…I am learning that it is the most beautiful connection I have to God, knowing that every word I say He hears and will answer. Knowing that I can pray for other people and He will hear those prayers too. Knowing that He keeps my secrets in confidence… I could go on and on…
But I have to share this clever little list (from dumblittleman.com) that I thought was a hoot! It’s 10 Tips for Meeting with the Boss…While meeting with the boss is nothing like a meeting with Jesus, this little list may help you with your prayer time with Jesus!
10 Tips for A Successful Meeting with the BOSS Jesus
Ask for an agenda prior to the meeting - Well, that’s pretty easy. Your agenda is whatever is on your heart. Speak those things that are weighing on you, the things that concern you, anything you want to give to God. Don’t be confused, however. You don’t have to prepare for prayer with God, BUT His word, the BIBLE, is always the best reinforcement. Turn to it before and after prayer if you ever want more insight into living a life that pleases God.
Dress to impress – Noooo, you don’t have to be “dressed” a certain way, BUT I suggest robing yourself in humility so that God knows your sincerity. Also undress yourself of stress or anything else that may distract from communicating.
Take notes during the meeting - I have never physically wrote down anything while praying, BUT I have written prayers. And what I find is that later when I revisit my prayers, I see how God has brought many miracles my way. Sounds cliche, but that’s real! I’d also say right after you finish your prayer, stay silent, and TAKE NOTE of what God is saying. Sometimes, He speaks in soft whispers right after we pray.
Show enthusiasm and positivity – Plain and simple. Sometimes we come to God with so much unnecessary worrying and complaining. But we, including me, need to learn how to come to Him with enthusiasm and praise knowing that we aren’t just talking to a boss who may or not do something, but that we are addressing the Almighty, our Father who CAN and WILL handles our needs.
Bring solutions – Never enter a meeting with a complaint that you don’t have at least one solution for. While we know we cannot solve our own problems, go into prayer with a spirit of expectancy! Know that God is the answer! Don’t grieve God with your doubt. Pray knowing that once you give it to God your problem is solved!
Build rapport - Make a connection with God. Talk to Him often. If you don’t speak to God, how can you really and truly have a relationship with Him? Prayer becomes less foreign to you and maybe less frightening and easy to do when you do it often. Get to know Him, it’s always worth it.
Show vision - Don’t be afraid to voice big ideas. Show your understanding (or curiosity) for His will. Tell God your limitless dreams, ask Him to show you a way to achieve your goals. Ask Him to help you become a leader with whom he can be proud.
Ask – When you don’t understand things, ask for clarity. Ask for wisdom. We may not always get an answer to the mysteries of heaven and earth, but if we continue in our prayer walk, things will become more apparent.
Send thanks - Let God know you appreciate the time He spends with you. There are several ways to do this, but don’t let your thanks and praise go unheard.
Follow up – Pray again, and again, and then go back and pray again. Repeat daily and often. And bolster your prayer life with obedience.
Okay, so I am all about kitchen luv! What do I mean?? Honey, I am from the south and we southern ladies love to cook! While I haven’t been showing my kitchen all that much luv recently, I did whip up some of my fave cookies of all times…and from scratch!
From scratch?? Child, what you thought?! Of course, from scratch. I’m no box-pre-made-batter-queen! I’m the real deal!
I made them the other day at my sister’s request and I had a ball doing it. It’s a recipe I’ve perfected over the years, and I have to say that everyone who has tasted them luvs em. I think they’re super tasty myself. While you can’t always indulge in the sugary treat, they’re perfect for those moments of bad foodie behavior!
So I thought I’d share my kitchen luv with you guys today and give you the recipe!
Guess you can’t say I’ve never given you anything!
I wish I had a clever name for them or something, maybe you guys will help me out with that…until then they’re:
Steph’s Famous Cookies (makes 112, feel free to half the recipe, or quarter it)
2 cups of butter
2 cups of white sugar
2 cups brown sugar 7 cups of blended plain oatmeal
24 oz of semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 pinches of salt
1, 8oz Hershey Bar (grated)
4 eggs 2 teaspoons of baking soda 2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts)
Blend oatmeal into fine powder in your blender.
Watch the settings, you want it blended finely into a flour-like powder.
Cream butter and both sugars.
Add eggs, vanilla. Mix together with oatmeal, salt, baking powder and baking soda.
Add chocolate chips, Hershey Bar gratings, and nuts.
(Yummm!)
Roll into balls and place two inches apart on a non-stick cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes at 375 degrees…or until as golden brown as you like
Let them cool and shoo away any picky little fingers that get in the way! Ha!
(Disclaimer: This is probably not the ‘Easter speech’ you’re expecting)
I think I made a big fuss last year (and this year too) of making mistakes, and living with my regret. I re-live some of my worst decisions over and over…punishing myself to no end.
Thankfully, Passover Week came at the perfect time, in the midst of a tantrum…Through my study of the history of Passover week , I really came to begin understanding the worth of Christ’s sacrifice for us and just WHY his death on the Cross is sooooo redeeming…
For every little salty drop that falls from my eyes, I need to remember the drops of blood he shed for me so that I could be forgiven of and forget my past. I think there is an upside to my mistakes, and in that I find the most beautiful thing about Christ’s Resurrection…And that’s that it was selfless; it was a death with my mistakes in mind. He sacrificed his life so that I could be forgiven of my mistakes.
So today, I can celebrate. I can celebrate that this morning, after I confessed my sins, I began a new life. And I can do so over and over again, day after day. Because Jesus lived, died, and rose from His grave. And only for that reason.
He endured ridicule, and betrayal and pain so that I could hear, “You are forgiven.”
So I dressed up today in a sunny yellow frock, even though they dressed Jesus in a crown of thorns and a purple robe that mocked his royalty as the King of Nazareth…My family and I prepared a feast, even though all he had was a few sips of vinegar water…
And I will try to live my life knowing that my Savior died, but more importantly lives, so that I can have a life of joy, and of confidence that Christ still loves ME in spite of ME and that His red blood makes me white as snow and brand new every time I confess Him!
Love you pixie-poohs! We serve a risen Savior! Happy Resurrection Day!!!
I am literally here looking at my bank statement and at my list of goals…and lemme tell you, some things (plenty things, actually) are not adding up.
How in the world can I make ANYTHING happen with an income of $1.99 and an expense report of $2.99… Lately, I’ve been feeling like I’m forever coming up short.
Frustrated isn’t the word. I’d go for “inadequate” or maybe “impossibility”…If I glance at this bank statement again, I’m led to use the word “pitiful.”
Am I whining?? Ummm yes! Can’t you tell??!
I’ve heard my share of prosperity gospel, etc. and maybe I haven’t retained enough of that teaching. I love God, I know He is a provider and that He won’t leave me without what I need. However, I still feel at my whit’s end.
What do you do when you need an emergency-right-now-pretty-please-Lord-help-me blessing??!
I’m usually full of sound-minded advice, but this one has got me in a tizzy.
Between student loans + an underwater mortgage + and leaning on plastic while unemployed…I’m broke and I’m tired of it…that’s just truth, unadulterated and unfiltered.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful to be working again (::hallelujah::speaks in tongues::dances in circle::), I truly am. I know that that is/was God’s hand. BUT I can’t help but want to be fiscally able to save, invest, to do a little better than barely making ends meet and overall be back on the good foot with my finances…
I’m starting a prayer campaign for more money in my life, hope this isn’t wrong… Help your girl out!
It’s Super Tuesday sweeties! That means it’s time for each of you to head to the polls and exercise your right to vote!
Yes, it may only be a Presidential Primary election BUT it’s still major; and your vote counts, baby dolls! Besides, there are most likely several LOCAL referendums that need your vote. I would never tell you WHO to vote for, but every election is one of which you should be a part.
As I heard it put best by a Georgia Legislator, Sen. Vincent Fort, the stairs of many state houses are covered in the blood of those who gave their lives so that there is equity in our government and voting rights for all.
Most Polls will be open today until 7:00 p.m. For more information about voter registration, absentee ballots, or locating your polling place, please click HERE.
So this weekend I held my first ever Vision Board Party for me and all my best girlfriends. It was a blast, and semi emotional at times. It was such a great affair ~ oh yeah, and it was a potluck breakfast! Yummmmyy!
What’s a Vision Board Party? I’m glad you asked girlfriend!
The Vision Board is a practical method to train the imagination (and subconscious) to believe your biggest dreams are achievable. The idea is that “nothing is impossible for the imagination to accomplish,” BUT it is necessary that we train ourselves to believe this. A vision board is a simple yet powerful visualization tool that activates the universal law of attraction to begin manifesting your dreams into reality.
It’s never too late or too early 2set a vision for yourself! Seal it with prayer & TRUST that our God hears it all and KNOWS whats best 4U!
XOXO to all my Vision Board party divas: baby sis Erica J., Jasmine, Jametria, Lucorin, Erinn, Shakora, Erica H., Septian, Ashley C., Schneka and Miraca!
I may be the queen of making lists, I’ll accept that. I like making lists sometimes and while we’re all preparing to go out and celebrate NYE…I’m thinking about how much 2011 was a “kick-in-the-pants” year for me. Full of mistakes…full of “wish-I-could-do-overs”…regret…so needless to say, I won’t miss 2011. In retrospect, those 365 days were the sour dose of reality I needed. AND that’s what this list is about for me…everything I learned in 2011. Granted, they’re in no particular order, BUT some were tougher lessons than others…ALL of them had me saying “Okay!! No more!! I won’t do this in the New Year!!” haha…
This year, entering the SECOND year of unemployment was like being in the wilderness hunny child! Because it was an unfamiliar territory, there were all these questions swirling about…where do I go? What’s next? How will I take care of this bill or that bill? What I came to realize is that I was totally committed to being afraid; and that was a choice I was making.
There was no certainty of failure, no omens, no dark prophe-lies spoken over me, yet I was afraid. I wasn’t particularly hungry, or naked, or without a roof over my head, but I was still afraid. Of what? Nothing worth mentioning, just the typical monsters under the bed. ANYway, I learned that all the sleep I lost, all that anxiety was because I decided to be afraid.
Fast forward ahead and yes, all the questions I had then still remain, of course. Most of them are unanswered, and I’m okay with that. I don’t know much about what’s next, BUT I have smartened up enough to give God all my fear.
I didn’t talk much about some of the church leaders and their public falls from grace that stormed the media channels this year. I was just as shocked as the next person and sorta kinda devastated about how it made church look, how it made Christians look. Allegations of this, speculations of that, public announcements, denials, admissions…it was a crazy year.
But all that craziness wasn’t limited to just church leaders, in my personal space tough times forced me to take a provident look at just WHO was around me and WHY. I gotta admit, I didn’t like everything I saw. I peeled back the layers of many relationships, many times finding there weren’t many layers at all. And that’s tough.
BUT I think we have to all temper our expectations and come to the sometimes disenchanting revelation that people WILL fail you and that’s simply because none of us are perfect. Anyone put on a pedestal, will surely fall from it at least once. Just being real.
So I thought I’d share with you myChristmasgift!~ no doubt from Jesus himself. You wouldn’t believe what happened to me the other day…I got a call from a family friend who advised me to apply for a job they’d been apprised of. Not one to get my hopes up, I applied for the job with absolutely no expectation being that I’d applied for plenty jobs and those such avenues led to dead ends.
Anyway, I submitted my qualifications, and in one day’s time I was granted an interview. In preparation, I boned up on the organization, the job specs and went into the interview suited up to my classiest.
The interview went well, as many of them have so of course I did not allow myself to hold my breath.
Anyway, I get in my car and drive home–happy that the anxiety of undergoing another interview was over. Less than ten minutes away from arriving home, I got the call from the interview congratulating me on LANDING THE JOB!
Merry Christmas to me ~ I am officially employed, full-time, with benefits to boot! No, it’s not a dream job and it’s very, very, very modest pay, but I am grateful to God just for an opportunity to work and be able to keep my home. This is a step in a positive direction for me and I can’t wait to see where it leads!
Okay, so I def didn’t make a bucket list for 2011…I probably would have in retrospect, but that’s cool…I’ve got ink and paper ready to etch some fun “must-do’s” for 2012.
Nonetheless, I have ALWAYS wanted to go indoor rock climbing and this week, I organized an outing for my girls and I to do just that!
We skipped on over to Atlanta Rocks for a fun-filled adventure…followed up by well-deserved burgers
Growing up, there were a lot of things I didn’t understand in the Bible. I mean a lot…Most of the time, when I heard people quoting scriptures, it seemed they were speaking another language. And being younger and reading things for myself, I wouldn’t always get the clarity that was obviously crystal clear for everyone else.
Honey buns, I won’t even lie to you: there are STILL things I don’t understand. But believe me, as I have gotten older it’s like the words have jumped off the soft white pages and danced their little letters into my life. Soooo much more of the the Bible makes sense because of what I’ve experienced, because of the triumphs, but mostly because of the trials baby dolls.
I’ll give you a perfect example:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” ~ Romans 12:2
I have heard this a thousand times, but it sounded more like: ” おはようございます。お元気ですか“
So of course I’m like, huh?
But with all I have been through, this makes total sense…NOW.
When I say “been through,” I know that my recent challenges may mean nothing to others; they may even seen small, but they absolutely rocked me …nearly senseless and unfortunately, I mean that in a literal sense. To the seeing eye, there were obvious losses: loss of employment, a near loss of my home, family health challenges, etc., etc….That’s on the surface, right? But boy oh boy, underneath?? There was a full out battle ensuing!
Every self-deprecating, condemning thought I could come up with crossed my mind.
I would literally think myself sick…for days and weeks at a time. I wished I could have been well enough to verbalize these thoughts , but they weren’t thoughts; they were real~they were my life and what I truly believed about myself. I accepted these thoughts as truth and it slowly began to destroy me, a young woman with a beautiful mind who’d NEVER before struggled with confidence or such a low level of hollowness BUT my bright spots weredimming.
I could lie and say that this was a scary “process” or series of events, but I don’t even remember how I got to that place, so there wasn’t a fear factor…Out of nowhere, I just found myself in this depressive ditch. I remember once tail-spinning into a fit of tears that left my eyes so swollen it pained me to blink. Crazy, right? And that’s just the thing…our minds are such a powerful mechanism. It is possible to drive yourself plum crazy!
I have come to know that your mind is a battlefield…it really is.
Whatever it is that you think, so will it be. There will always be a mental boxing match going on. In one corner there is all that is sweet, affirming and positive and in the other corner is the most damning, dark, twisted deliberations you can imagine. What an opponent!! But you got this!
We have understand that thoughts that are corrupting, debasing and bring sadness are of the world; they aren’t of or from God and He would never want us to think this way.
We not only have to guard our hearts in this life; we would do best to guard our minds as well. RENEW our minds. Flush away that “blah” mindset, even thoughts of arrogance~whatever comes to mind that is not true, honest or pure.
When met with this situation, we have to say “God, give me a sound mind…RENEW my thoughts, RE-educate me on WHO I am and WHO YOU ARE to me… Give me a positive self-worth, a healthy esteem…TRANSFORM my mind so that I think of and like You!”
I am working on my sunshine and I know that only will come from renewing my mind in HIM. It won’t happen any other way. Positive affirmations, prayer All sounds corny, but that’s what I’m doing. That’s how I’m winning the battle in my mind. I won’t damn myself to hell or to a place of depression; I will renew my mind as much as it takes, and I will be transformed!
From what I know, Joyce Meyer has written a series of books and has DVDS on this very same issue. All have been bestsellers and I believe that is because a lot of people are dealing with this. I’m going to check them out…BUT more importanly, I’ll be reading the Bible a little more each day so that おはようござ will translateto something I understand
So I’ve been doing a lot of writing lately, a lot of thinking and listening to music on quiet nights (when GiGi isn’t pouncing on me)…AND I recently came across a song that I believe I will NEVER forget.It comes from no other than the top DIVA of my generation, queen BEYONCE!
Now truth be told, I am not a Beyonce stan (stalker + fan), but I give credit where it’s due and the girl is an absolute icon…She just is. I fell in luv with a song on her latest studio project, 4. Written by the lyrical genius that is Diane Warren, Beyonce’s I Was Here is just as infectious as Toni Braxton’s Unbreak my Heart and Aerosmith’s Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing, both written by Diane Warren.
The amazing thing about the track, I Was Here, is that it takes the listener beyond the music. Well, at least it did for me. It made me think about who I am, who I want to become and what type of footprint I want to leave when my story is said and done.
Have you ever thought about that? Sometimes life keeps us so busy with the day-to-day minutia, we may be ignoring the bigger picture. I often get consumed with paying bills, getting a job, getting a better car, traveling–so much ME, MYSELF and I that I forget that there is an overarching purpose for my life that involves other people. Who am I helping? How? And under what motivation?
I have to remember that God assigned me to a group of people–those of which I am responsible for impacting and bettering, to a certain degree. I don’t wanna just live for me. Beyond my family who loves me innately (or out of obligation lol), I want to mean something to someone. I want people to smile when they think of me. At the end of my days, I’d be fine with someone saying, “That Stephanie, wow, that girl sure wasn’t perfect but she did her best to make things better than how she found them.”
And that’s what this song is about. See if “I Was Here” takes you where it took me!
Here are the lyrics:
I was Here, Beyonce
I wanna leave my footprints on the sands of time
Know there was something that, and something that I left behind
When I leave this world, I’ll leave no regrets
Leave something to remember, so they won’t forget
I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here
I want to say I lived each day, until I die
I know that I had something in, somebody’s life
The hearts I have touched, will be the proof that I leave
That I made a difference, and this world will see
I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here
I just want them to know
That I gave my all, did my best
Brought someone to hapiness
Left this world a little better just because
I was here
I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here
Wow! So more than a year ago, I decided I wanted a “roommate.” Not just any roommate, however. I wanted a cute roommate, one I could cuddle with and fall in luv with. What am I talkin about?? Well, don’t get your mind in the gutter!! I was envisioning a four-legged furball….[Cue the awwws now please and thank you!]
I didn’t tell anyone about this roommate search at first; I just began researching…the size, the breed, from where I’d scoop him or her. The adoption agencies weren’t big fans of a prissy miss like me, but I was determined to prove them wrong–especially after my initial doggy days experience. So I pressed on, not to be discouraged, I did tons of research to make sure I was really ready for a roomie.
…Fast forward a few weeks and I finally let the cat (or dog, more appropriately) outta the bag and told my mum what I was plotting. She was, surprisingly enough, supportive. A few days later, I held my breath and told my daddy* (the big kahuna) what I was thinking and he gave me the green light too! It was all systems go anyway bc I’d already made a vow to myself and a fiscal commitment to the idea of getting a pup.
Over the past couple days, weeks….errr months actually friends and family members close to me have asked what I was doing withpulpitpixie.com. What are my plans? Have I given it up??
And I can say now that I am thankful for the questions, for the concern. They have moved me to consider this venture more carefully.
Don’t get me wrong, I have never taken my mind off my beloved blog. It’s just that when I started pulpitpixie, things were, well ummm, let’s say, “in place.” It was easy to provide lighthearted commentary when you feel lighthearted…and when you don’t…well, then you see like a six-month blogging break! Lawdamercy! I gotta ask for forgiveness…
All in all, I am back…and in full effect?? Well, I guess we will have to see. I have to get my energy going for this domain again. Like I said, I never lost my love for pulpitpixie.com, but when you’re at a life’s crossroad, you’re making these crazy, hair-pulling, can’t sleep, tough-cookie decisions AND the bills are sky-high, humph blogging is the last thing you want to do…It’s the last thing on your mind.
BUT I think, blogging is what I should have done. It would have likely helped me process what I was feeling and maybe hit some identifiable points for you too. So that’s what I am going to try to do. This should be fun!
Soooo yeahhh I’m gonna need you guys to be patient with me, not like 6month-break patient, but you get the point.
In the meantime, I’ll catch you up on my latest happenings! Send me a line or two so I can know what’s going on with you guys too! So, ::big inhale:: here it is:
Lord knows my weekend is stacked since I have registered to be a part of Atlanta’s Unrestrained Worship Conference 2010 hosted by Changing a Generation Full Gospel Baptist Church (FGBC) where Bishop Paul Morton is the pastor…I am actually just getting home now and I am sleepy as a dog!
Anyway, on top of the two-day conference, I will also be singing at an annual, year-ending fundraiser for a non profit dialysis transport foundation. Pretty cool! I’ll let u guys know what I end up singing since I have yet to decide.
Let me skip to the point of this post…I will be breaking my neck to get out and enjoy some new gospel music tomorrow night after all else is said and done. I am not sure that I will make it, but I wanted to pass the word on to you!
I don’t know much about Chase Radio, but if I go tomorrow night I’ll find out and clue you guys in…
Anyways, here are the deets:
Join Chashe’ Radio as we CELEBRATE our 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!
Hosts:
Chashe’ , Power House Sound and Production Music Group, and the Go Ye Dj’s will be on the 1’s and 2’s.
LIVE performances by:
Edward Long,
J. Santana
Infamous
Lyndsey Hill
Sam Collier & Tru Skyy
God’s Choice and many more!
Your ticket purchase enters you into a drawing for a FREE PRIZE!
Join us for a night of Fun, excitement and much more!! Tell a friend and come out in EXPECTATION of a great evening!! For more info email:cradioevents@gmail.com
It’s the end of the year and we can say that we have ALMOST seen the completion of the 12months 2010 brought us. So I was pondering, “what’s a fun way to wrap this year?”…
And I arrived at this~ You know how there are things left unsaid that maybe you wanted to say, but didn’t use your opportunity, or couldn’t say bc it wasn’t the place? Or because you didn’t want to hurt someone’s feelings? Or what about the things you now desire to say because hindsight has shown you the other side of “through”?
Okay, well here’s the opportunity! I’m gonna share my 12 things, and when you’re done reading mine…hit me up with your own list!
Whooooo baby Jesus, how many times do I have to say it?? I can’t stand when people try to hang your past over your head! Child please! There is nothing in my yesterday that bothers me…I’ve learned and through God’s grace been able to transcend to higher heights. I luv who I am now and can’t wait to see who I will become over the years. Yeah, I’ve changed…Change is GOOD!
One thing 2010 has taught me is the value of humilty and what better way to complete a Humility 101 course than having to apologize?? Geez, I’ve done it so much I am a pro at apologies…but I don’t mind. I like 2apologize, it’s the act that necessitates the apology that I despise…while I’ve said a thousand sorry’s in 2010, many of them could have and should have come sooner than they did!
Odd thing: 2010 was full of heartaches, heart breaks and hang ups… My girls and I have been clinging to each other strong in the sister circle! There’s a new rNb song out called “When a Woman Luvs…she luvs for real” and that’s the truth. While we’ve overcome (mostly) there are still some fools who have our heartstrings in their hands..and the only way to change that is if WE release them! I have a power circle, meaning the ladies with whom I surround myself are beyond talented, beyond fabulous–simply royal princesses! So when you see an unworthy subject giving your girl grief, you kinda wanna say, “Back up jack! We’re waiting for Kings over here and you’re blocking the view!” It’s all luv, but no scrubs, partna…that’s how I’ve felt this year… Ain’t it amazing what others can see that we can’t see ourselves??
Okay, okay…everyone knows I’ve been a little “achy breaky heart-ish” ever since my layoff…BUT those who know me well and know my spirit are very well aware of my most used slogan, “I can’t stand a victim.” This basically equates to “I hate complainers” …I don’t literally hate complainers, but I errr ummm strongly dislike complaints. I am just a firm believer that negative words pollute the air and baby I like the space around me so fresh and so clean. If naggers/naysayers put two actions behind every complaint, I bet you by the end of the year they’d have nothing to complain about. A little hard work and a whole lotta prayer can change your situation baby!
This one may sound harsh, but I don’t mean any harm honestly…I will say that 2010 has shown me sooo much, I mean God has really given me the opportunity to peak beyond the surface of situational circumstances and circumstantial people. There might a few ppl with question marks for Steph. Well, I’ll clear the record: I cut you from the team bc you were no longer a valuable player homie…and ultimately, no good 4me. You + negativity + my disappointment = a heavy load that I had 2drop. It happens…
Funny, funny, funny! Sooo I am a heavy Fbook, twitter, wordpress user. Everyone knows this, right? I pour out a lot via these social media platforms, yet so little. What I am saying is there’s no way you can “KNOW” me from simply visiting my accounts on these sites. YET I have had people to lurk (euphemism for stalk) my page and mention to me face2face things from my fbook and twitter accounts as if I don’t know what or remember what I said; and some insinuate I should feel shame. Child please again!! Let me put it out all the way out there: I am a daughter of God meaning I am a GODDESS, Christ is my motivator, I am accountable to HIM at all times ~not You! So trust, I don’t compromise Steph’s relationship with Daddy…I live a vivid life, one of fun and freedom in Christ! Legalists beware, I’m always up for a discussion of differing opinions! Haha
Jeez, there are two people I think of when I scribbled this note, but the one of most importance is my Mother and err umm…I’m gonna leave it at that. Can’t really blog about my Mama bc I might tear-up as I type, and y’all know I hate 2cry. Sooo…check back 4an update, I might fill this section in when I’m feeling a little less sappy!
Big talkers, we luv em, don’t we?? I’ve heard year-round yapping about all subjects under the sun, blanket statements and generalizations galore! “All men are this; All women are that; Southerners only this; In my house we ________ so that’s better.” Enough already! I am under-exposed when it comes to a lot of things, humilty helps to EXPOSE that…it’s tough to talk to a know-it-all is simply what I’m saying.
Now trust me, I would never utter any of these words! BUT there have been some quite a few individuals since the beginning of my time have given me, my fam, my sisters the *side eye of doubt*… Ooo where are y’all now?? My sisters and I = Advanced degrees, homeowners, givers, good daughters, great friends, pretty faces and beautiful spirits. If I’m bragging I’m only boasting on Jesus and the favor He has shown us! We did all “these things” because Christ strengthened us, though your support would have been nice. But what is the hiphop theme going on now?? *Ahem* Oh yeah: The bandwagon is full now, but you can run behind it! BOW!
And because I did a “nah, nah nee boo-boo” on my number 9, I am gonna give props on number 10. Ain’t nothing like a pleasant surprise, right? What can I say?? Errr sorry…
I waited like literally 13yrs or so to get boy/man crazy and trust me little ladies, it’s sooo much better that way! “I’ve got a crush on you!” Oh how I’ve longed to say this for soo long and to quite a few fellas…they’s why they’re called crushes tho, because they’re fleeting and I get over a crush as quickly as I generate a new one. So keeping silent was def the move on this one!
You guys know my situation on this one…While I couldn’t make the statement “laying me off was a blessing.period.” this year, because I am still feeling my way through this thing, I do think that one day it will all be clear to me. I believe my layoff will prove itself to be a blessing, then I’ll shout from the mountain tops, “Oh wow God! That’s why you cleared my schedule??!! Amazing!!!”
Phew…kinda refreshing having brainstormed on 12 things, though I came up with quite a few more.
My sweetie pie mother believes social networking is killing the fiber of human relationships…I’m starting to think she’s sorta right and I only say “sorta” bc of the crazy cool connections and re-connections I’ve made via “the facebook and the twitter”…
But you know what I’ve noticed?? No one writes anything down anymore…No luv notes, no scribbled sentiments on a sticky pad, no four-paged letters (shout out to Aaliyah) ~no nothing! Point & click, touch-pads and texting has taken over! Kinda sad too…I wonder what will we have to offer the future generations in archives if everything is electronic. There will be no time-capsules for them to retrieve, no written chronicles for them to discover…yeesh!
I remember as a little girl, loving to write letters not only for class assignments, but to friends, relatives and pen-pals far and near. I think it’s just something about seeing hand-written words. They show a little bit more sincerity, they touch you differently. If you’ve ever received a hand-written anything, you’ve probably thought, “Wow, this was really thoughtful of him or her.” And truthfully, that’s exactly what it is, thoughtfulness personified.
I don’t think people are more thoughtless nowadays, I think we’ve just convinced ourselves that we’re too busy. I think we’ve also convinced ourselves that people can hear what’s not being said. But I argue that that’s the farthest thing from the truth.
We are no more busy than our predecessors who were occupied with challenges that can debatably be classified as a wee bit tougher than our own…(don’t get me started) AND I hope we are not become an “assuming” body of people, assuming people know how we feel, assuming people feel confident in their relationship with us, assuming that love unstated is understood. Nooo, I just think sometimes reciprocity should be written down.
Just this month, I received two hand-written invitations in the mail…::gasp:: yes, as in U.S. Postal mail, not email. And in an era where evites and facebook msgs rule, seeing handwritten invitations in my mailbox was a thrill. Because I appreciated that so, I decided to take it a step further. Often in my quiet time, I think about all the people who have poured into my life, all the mentors, special friends, relatives…and the sacrifices they have made to see others happy. While I might have said “thank you” to them in person for a particular act, sometimes it’s reinforcing to just send a note to say it again.
So I snatched open my nightstand drawer, full of fabulous stationary might I add, and put some of those frilly cards to use. I can say that I am soo happy I did that and will make it a normal practice because it reminded me of how fortunate I am to have great people in my life and I’m sure it did the receivers some good too.
I bet if you thought about it there are at least five people in your life you could thank, not for things they’ve done for you, but for simply being themselves. How about you drop them a note of thanks? In fact, I dare you to!
So if you’re at all like me: enticed by the luxe stationary atop the shelves in Papyrus or TJMaxx and Target, I say go ahead~buy a box or two. BUT don’t just let it end there. Make it a goal to send out every card in that box of stationary within its year of purchase. The blessings of doing so are ten-fold!
I am sitting here cracking up laughing at my family. I would say, “they are crazy,” but truthfully, I am included as well….So I guess this means “we are crazy,” but crazy in a good way…crazy in a Johnson way…crazy in a you-wouldn’t-believe-me-if-I-told-you-jokes-are-always-on-100 way.
Just last week during an impromptu trip up to the GA mountains to visit my hardworking lil sis, I enjoyed one of the most overwhelmingly funny moments with my mother and sister. I rarely divulge the nature of our nuts-o moments being that most are “you had to be there” occasions and/or inside jokes, but lemme just say it involved a drive-thru and a painstakingly hungry stomach. I nearly lost the breath in my body I was laughing so hard! And it never takes much either; my family is just cut from the clowny cloth. We luv a good time!
A week before, the whole fam crew enjoyed celebrating my father’s birthday and I can still recall that sent water works across the kitchen table. Yeah, it was thaaaat funny!
All this just makes me antsy in anticipation for tomorrow’s big day: Thanksgiving! I cannot wait to be with my family again. To know that we’ll laugh and enjoy the warmth of being around each other just makes me smile. Not to mention, tasty family recipes and the unspoken tradition that Thanksgiving is essentially the green light for Christmas songs, decor and
I want to dedicate this post to all that makes Thanksgiving special.
Here’s how we do it, how do you guys make it special??
Service – My older sister lately has made it a practice to serve as a cook for Hosea Feed the Hungry Campaign the night before Thanksgiving, I think she even served dinner one Thanksgiving Day
Family Prayer/Worship- The prayer circle at Thanksgiving truly reflects the holiday’s purpose. I just think you cannot break bread on this special day without an earnest heart of thanks. I love pass-me-down prayers where everyone in the circle contributes to the special convo with God. I have also heard of families that have actual worship programs at their house, some of which revolve around the piano or the songstress/musician of the family. Awesome!
Football – What’s Thanksgiving without football?? It’s not Thanksgiving if you ask me! I’ve always been said not watching football on Thanksgiving Thursday is like not brushing your teeth in the morning: just WRONG haha!
Cooking – Gathering around the mixing bowl and the hot stove is by far the toughest task involved with this special holiday, but I also think it’s the most enjoyable. Nothing is more priceless than creating the centerpiece of the day: food. Sooo many great conversations, jokes and walks down memory lane come from snapping the peas with your sister or kneading the dough with your grandma!
Sharing Family Recipes – This is especially fun, particularly if there’s a secret family recipe…or one you’re not allowed to learn until you become of age. And isn’t it always the case that no one makes dressing like your mom? Or no one’s sweet potato pies stand a chance against your Aunt Betty’s?? Sharing recipes are always a thrill!
Game Night - Your spades partner just made it to town and the two of you are ready to whip up on your cousins! Or taboo young gen vs. baby boomers! My fam absolutely does not get together without a few games in tow….two years ago, we made it a Thanksgiving extravaganza and did bowling, laser tag and bumper cars after the big day!
Trimming the Tree- It’s official now! Thanksgiving ushers in the Christmas season so bring out the bows, ornaments and peppermint! Let’s trim the tree! I love cruising through the neighborhood Thanksgiving night and seeing all the holiday decor making its way to the rooftops, yards and front windows of the homes in the community. Priceless!
I wish you each a merry, cranberry, comical, unforgettable , joke-cracking, turkey-carving, hot biscuit-eating Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Over the years, I have been beat-up quite a bit for being a prissy miss. People who don’t understand my wiring insist I’m always ‘doing -the most’ like “Oh you fancy, huh?”
Fact is, babydolls, I am!
I’m a gold-lamé-luvin-bling-me-up-bedazzle-me-down-dresses-over-pants-never-caught-chewing-gum kinda chick. And you know what, you can’t even blame me: God made me this way.
Yuuup I like my hair done, nails done, everything big!!! And if you luv this blog I am guessing you’re a lot like me~fab & fancy.
Disclaimer: Don’t get us wrong, these thing aren’t the only things that matter to us ~ but personal upkeep ranks high & besides its super fun!
Well, to all my pretty pixies who stay on the brink of all things fresh, I have some news to share if you don’t already know. It’s the latest innovation in natural manicures. Natural meaning no acrylic, no plastic tips, no shaving your nails until they’re paper-thin!
Honey, I have tried it all from Essie to OPI Sally Henson, Revlon so believe me, when I say this manicure is like no other. It’s called GELISH NAILS! And it’s the mani of mani’s!
The Good:
The Manicure is supposed to last 3 weeks.
The end-product feels like YOUR nails, no tightness or heavy glue
Extremely glossy
This is what my nails looked like after week 2, pretty good, huh?? A little bit of grow-out, but still pretty hot!
The Bad:
There really is no “bad” that are too bad, although there are only a few limited colors you can chose from with this manicure…BUT, from what I was told more colors will make their way on the market as the trend becomes more popular.
Here are the colors you can choose from…these are kinda like your mother’s colors: reds, mauves, golds~deep tones! But luckily, these are trending tones now for us spring chicks!
Also, here are some great neutral tones…my bestie got a very light cream and it was awesome sauce!
The Ugly
I would not suggest taking the polish off yourself. I pulled mine off in little chips, and I can say that scratched the surface of my nails. Granted they were not thinner, but the surface of my nails was no longer smooth. However, about three days later, my nails were back to their normal state… My best friend got the gelish mani and allowed the shop techs to remove the polish and re-paint and her nails were just fine, a-ok!
Here’s what my nails looked like after 3wks, you can probably see the scratches…not too kosher!
So that’s the deal peoples! Always gotta keep my pixies on what’s new and fresh to keep you looking fab! Will I get the gelish mani again?? Absolutely, as soon as I get my $$ up! haha!
So you won’t believe this…I ran into some pretty cool information today, particularly if you like Christian fiction. There’s a new movie coming out that is bound to get your attention if from nothing else, from the cast alone. It’s called “I’m in Love with a Church Girl.” The storyline is pretty cool, but I just can’t get over who’s gonna play these characters…
Rapper Ja Rule will be starring in this upcoming faith-based film “I’m in Love with a Church Girl” about an ex-convict who is now a pastor.
Now we both know that Ja Rule hasn’t been the most clean-cut, poised entertainer given his lyrics (that, don’t get me wrong, I’ve bumped to) and a literal ‘rap sheet’ with NYPD, BUT (please note the non-judgmental ‘but’) maybe that’s what makes him perfect for this movie, a film centered around a troubled guy from the hood who finds God and tries to turn it all around.
Read more about it & see the movie trailer under the hood!
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