 A few days ago while listening to conversations around me I was reminded of how life effects us. Yes, EFFECT, because we all have a different cause that motivates us to be the person we are today, and tomorrow. As I look forward I share this post to remind you, and me at a later date, that life is good! Did you hear that? Life is good! Do you want to know something even bigger and better? God is good and all the time, God is good. Not some of the time, but ALL THE TIME. Despite what is going on in our lives or how we feel about it...God has our back. Feelings are unreliable and temperamental. Yeah, that's about it. While writing this I am wondering how different things will proceed, end up, and happen in my life and the lives of those around me. I have a choice, to dwell on the unknown or trust God to provide. Have you ever let the unknown steal your joy or take your focus of what is important? I know I'm guilty of it myself. Today is the day we all stop letting other people and situations steal our joy, God has given us so much...let us shine brightly and be joy bugs to all we meet. Eliminate the joy suckers and be a joy maker. How can you be a joy-sucker repellent today? As I enjoy my February vacation, although I've experienced a lot of firsts, some things are the same. I'm known for getting a lot done during our February break. The weather is snowy and cold and this motivates me to get all the inside-to-do-lists finished. Lately I feel like I don't even have time to use the bathroom, much less organize my goals and tracking but my daughter gifted me time. Half my vacation this year has been spent traveling with our daughter as she interviews for new journeys and beginnings. While she enjoyed this adventure, I used my traveling and hotel time to get organized. I don't know about you but when I have an organized plan, I am more productive. In the past, I've had similar goals and ways to track my successes and areas to improve but this year, I decided I needed to tidy up. I made a big change, instead of having the different goals in the front of my different spiral bound notebooks, I'm utilizing one journal. My mini-goal is to bring this with me when I'm out and about and have it in sight when home. Let me share the way my brain works, who knows, it might help you get organized.  One of my goals this year is to read my Bible for at least 20 minutes each day. Each day, after I complete my Bible reading, I'll color in one box. One box = 20 minutes of reading. When I read longer, I'm not going to color in more boxes, the purpose of this page is to renew an old habit that sadly (hanging head in shame) I have gotten away from. Instead of sitting down with my Bible in hand I listen via audio book while doing the dishes, before going to bed, or while driving. I'm grateful I've been finding ways to get God's Word into my heart and mind YET I want to sit down and spend time with God.  Another page in my journal is for my podcast: One Sister's Journey ~ Keeping it Real. I enjoy sharing with my listeners a few times each week. For the first year or so I aired my podcasts five times a week but I realized there isn't enough time in the week so I cut back to three times a week. One thing I realized is I miss doing the podcasts more often. This will keep me on task, well this is the plan anyway. There have been a couple weeks I didn't realize I haven't aired a podcast until it's been more than a week, then I beat myself up for letting my listeners down. My hope is that by having my tracker in the same journal with my other goals, I'll be more diligent and consistent with my podcast. Now that it's in the journal with others, it's very visual. If you want to check out my podcast, listen on your favorite podcast app or CLICK HERE. Podcasting is an interactive radio show or journal, one thing I can promise you is that One Sister's Journey, Keeps it Real with each episode.  I have friends who are wonderful about making time for writing and never miss a day. There are others, like me, who struggle to justify the importance of our writing and keeping it a priority on the day's agenda. Do I want to write my next book? Yes. Do I enjoy writing? Yes. Do I want to model making time for your passions for my daughter? Yes. Am I good role model to this model? No. Can I improve? Yes. This page in my journal is to keep me on track with my writing. I'd like to say that my next book will release within a year but with my current writing discipline, this isn't a current reality BUT with the help of carrying my goal and tracking with me, the chances are increased greatly. I've always had this at home, hanging above my computer, or not the front of my writing binder but unless I take out the binder or sit at my desk..the goal isn't always there reminding me. My hope is that by "seeing" it more often, if not daily, goals will be achieved! I talked with my hubby and said as long as I write everyday, even if it isn't a book, I'm a happy girl. The other question is to decide if my blog word count will also count towards my 80,000 word count? Hmm...A discussion still being had. These next two pages are to help remind me I have other venues and opportunities to share things I'm passionate about, that have health benefits, and offer potential to provide supplemental income for our family. In addition to a career working as a paraprofessional for the local school district, authoring multiple books, traveling across the country to speak, raising an amazing daughter, and caring for family and friends...I am an independent representative for a couple companies on the forefront of changing lives.
What goals do you have & what are you doing to reach them? Will you share in a comment below? It has been a wonderful, relaxing, and exciting few days as I travel with my daughter for her assistantship interviews at a couple schools out of state. We live in a beautiful country and I'm thankful for this opportunity. I'm grateful for the invite from my daughter and for the means for both of us to do so. As we left one University and headed to the next, we drove around in the wee hours so I could see some of the city and college. I found the brick structures, walkways and roads breathtaking. I felt as if I stepped back in time and to a quieter time. Of course we took our drive at 7 a.m. on a Sunday morning so it was easy to get swept up in the serenity of the moment. Once we arrived at the next university, I spent time checking out the area. We went from a serenity to a bigger city, more cars, highways, and busy. In spite of the increase of traffic and roadways, the people I've met are just as friendly and wonderful. The front desk attendant is a student at the university my daughter is interviewing at, and recently visited the other. When my daughter gets here, the clerk offered to answer any questions my daughter has. I love the way God works and makes connections. Although I couldn't attend church this morning physically, thanks to our church's live stream, I was able to be there for the start of church and will finish it this afternoon. Modern technology has some cool benefits, doesn't it? With that, it's time for me to chill out next to the pool and get some more writing done. How did you, or are you, spending your Sunday? For years I have jumped out of bed when the "Snow Day" phone call came through. Once I finished the happy dance, I made way to the kitchen and started cinnamon roll dough so when my daughter woke up, warm cinnamon rolls were coming out of the oven and cooled just enough for the icing. Well, the daughter isn't five anymore and my need and ambition aren't as high either. This morning I read the "Snow Day" text, shut off my alarms, and rolled over and returned to a deep slumber. Yup, times are a changing. Last year I still jumped out of bed but today, the idea of an extra hour of sleep sounded way better. I did make homemade waffles when I finally got out of bed. I read for a bit but struggled to keep my eyes open. After a couple minutes I thought to myself, Why am I struggling to stay awake? I can take a nap, and that is exactly what I did. Back to bed I went for an hour nap. I woke up to my Dad calling to say he made his delicious Swedish meatballs for dinner. After I got out of bed, hubby and I went to Dad's for supper and back to chill-axin. I was bummed to use the snow day yet thrilled to catch up on sleep and this unplanned day of rest and relaxation. I hope you enjoyed your Thursday too! If you had a snow day,
|
 |   |
Then I will still rejoice in the Eternal! |  |
Deer have always amazed me. They have a gentle presence and graceful bounds through the fields. As a child, my Dad would take me out with him to "spot" the deer. We used a big spot light (now illegal in most areas) and Dad would drive around the countryside teaching me about deer habitats, feeding habits, and mannerisms. These are memories and lessons I still treasure today.
When my daughter, his only granddaughter was old enough to understand and appreciate these late night trips, disappointment came upon us. The DEC informed my dad it was illegal to "spot" deer. One of my fondest memories couldn't become a family tradition of a father to his daughter then granddaughter because of the few. I won't digress down this road because I want our blog to remain one of hope and positivity.
Here's the deal, not every parent expresses love with hugs and kisses, or long walks. For some, the greatest connections are doing what they love and sharing it with their kids. I'm grateful God created us all differently and uses different things to help us to connect with each other. For me, some of the deepest conversations with my dad occurred while skipping stones into Lake Ontario, spotting deer, or throwing the softball back and forth. If you aren't the snuggly parent or friend, don't apologize. Instead, celebrate your unique abilities and the gifts you have to share with your children and friends. You have a lot to offer and share with those around you.
The lessons, conversations, and memories of spotting deer helped to make me the person I am today and instilled an appreciation of this majestic, strong, and beautiful animal as an adult. Their tracks in the snow remind me of my earthly father and my Heavenly Father. Without knowing it, my Dad helped me recognize the importance and strength found God. God works in mysterious ways, what mystery is He unraveling in your life today?
When my daughter, his only granddaughter was old enough to understand and appreciate these late night trips, disappointment came upon us. The DEC informed my dad it was illegal to "spot" deer. One of my fondest memories couldn't become a family tradition of a father to his daughter then granddaughter because of the few. I won't digress down this road because I want our blog to remain one of hope and positivity.
Here's the deal, not every parent expresses love with hugs and kisses, or long walks. For some, the greatest connections are doing what they love and sharing it with their kids. I'm grateful God created us all differently and uses different things to help us to connect with each other. For me, some of the deepest conversations with my dad occurred while skipping stones into Lake Ontario, spotting deer, or throwing the softball back and forth. If you aren't the snuggly parent or friend, don't apologize. Instead, celebrate your unique abilities and the gifts you have to share with your children and friends. You have a lot to offer and share with those around you.
The lessons, conversations, and memories of spotting deer helped to make me the person I am today and instilled an appreciation of this majestic, strong, and beautiful animal as an adult. Their tracks in the snow remind me of my earthly father and my Heavenly Father. Without knowing it, my Dad helped me recognize the importance and strength found God. God works in mysterious ways, what mystery is He unraveling in your life today?
Embrace who you are and share it with others!
Each year I spend time reflecting on the previous year and pray about the year to come. I select a "word" and Bible verse as my focus for the year. This past year, my word was "renewal" and my Bible verse was actually a few verses. The important part of this process is taking the time to reflect, pray, and look forward.
The word and Bible verse help to keep you focused in the new year. Goal setting is a hot topic this time of the year, heck, I even have a book on goal setting - check it out by clicking here. BUT here's the deal, most people lose sight of their goals before the snow melts in Central New York. So, instead of setting an intense goal, try selecting a word and Bible verse to be your foundation for every decision and move you make in the coming year. Yeah, now this is not only less intimidating, it guarantees success!
I haven't been very good about document my word and verse each year, I wish I had been. If this is your first year doing this, I encourage you to find a place to document both your word and verse so when you look back, you can see how you've grown (or need to grow) by reflecting on words and verses of the past.
I used to make book marks and write the previous year's word and verse on it but as I've switched Bibles, used them as bookmarks, and transitioned from year to year...quite a few have been lost. The ones I have blogs about, are here for you. Click on the links below if you want to see how I've grown and changed over the years. It's nice to have this opportunity.
The word and Bible verse help to keep you focused in the new year. Goal setting is a hot topic this time of the year, heck, I even have a book on goal setting - check it out by clicking here. BUT here's the deal, most people lose sight of their goals before the snow melts in Central New York. So, instead of setting an intense goal, try selecting a word and Bible verse to be your foundation for every decision and move you make in the coming year. Yeah, now this is not only less intimidating, it guarantees success!
I haven't been very good about document my word and verse each year, I wish I had been. If this is your first year doing this, I encourage you to find a place to document both your word and verse so when you look back, you can see how you've grown (or need to grow) by reflecting on words and verses of the past.
I used to make book marks and write the previous year's word and verse on it but as I've switched Bibles, used them as bookmarks, and transitioned from year to year...quite a few have been lost. The ones I have blogs about, are here for you. Click on the links below if you want to see how I've grown and changed over the years. It's nice to have this opportunity.
| PREVIOUS YEAR'S WORDS! 2011 - The First "One Word" and why 2011 - "Faithful" 2012 - "hope" 2013 - 2014 - 2015 - "Courage & Strength" 2016 - 2017 - 2018 - 2019 - Renewal |
On this last day of 2019, I'm set on my word and am praying over a few verses before finalizing my 2020 focus and foundation. My year of renewal helped me with life decisions and with the selection of this year's word and verse. I'm using my year of renewal as the springboard into 2020. I'll share this with you next week.
I encourage you to take time and think about what your word and verse will be for 2020 and I hope you'll share with us once you've made your decision. This helps to solidify your choice and provides accountability. I post my on a white board in our living room, we need the reminders throughout the year to keep the momentum moving us forward. We are human and getting comfortable can be habitual, I don't want to get in a rut...I want to keep growing and being the best version of myself I can be.
I encourage you to take time and think about what your word and verse will be for 2020 and I hope you'll share with us once you've made your decision. This helps to solidify your choice and provides accountability. I post my on a white board in our living room, we need the reminders throughout the year to keep the momentum moving us forward. We are human and getting comfortable can be habitual, I don't want to get in a rut...I want to keep growing and being the best version of myself I can be.
Do you select a word and verse each year?
If so, are you ready to share yours?
If not, what is holding you back?
II'll share my one-word for 2020 on this coming Tuesday, New Year's Eve. Before you learn my one-word, let me share something else. My one-word for 2020 was one of the easiest I've come up with since my first couple years. I think it's because I was invested in my 2019 one-word and verse and through focusing on renewal, the next step was clear.
Through prayer, reflection, and meditation God was able to show me the next step. If I hadn't been as dedicated and obedient to seek God's direction this past year, I may have missed the next step in the journey. As part of my one-word and Bible verse focus for 2020, there is an opportunity before me. I shared it with my husband, unsure of his response but knowing he would be 100% honest and ask good questions. I printed off the information I planned to share so I may be able to answer most of his questions.
Here's the coolest part, I shared my idea and before I could finish he had a question and a statement:
1) This only makes sense and seems like the direction you've been going
2) BUT, you, we, can't invest this kind of money and have you continue to give away your services. If you follow through with this, then you need to charge the going rate
To say my hubby knows me is an understatement. I assured him that pursuing this would enhance my next book and career. With that, full hubby support. We shared the idea with our daughter and she had the same concern as my husband. Now that I know I have their encouragement and support, it's a matter of looking at the monies. It's a BIG investment yet one that would benefit us mentally, physically, and most importantly spiritually for the rest of our lives, even if I couldn't find someone to pay for the service.
On the flip side, just like with my writing, I want to pursue this to be the best version of myself and share this knowledge with others so they can be the best version of themselves too. If you think of me, us, in the next week, please pray for us. We are praying for clarity and clearness from God before committing this type of money. It's a 200 hour and $2,200 to $2,900 investment depending on how I pay. To register by 12/31/19 saves $700, but we'd need to have $2,200 in three days.
We've been praying and talking about this. We won't make a decision in haste, if this is in God's plan then we'll know - as we plan and pray for clarity, your prayers are appreciated. If you listen to my podcast, or have followed the blog for awhile then you go I like to "Keep it Real". The reality is that education and bettering ourselves has a price tag, or two. In addition to tuition and books, there will be overnight stays for the weekend study. We are excited and look forward to how God answers our prayers.
Thank you for joining us in the journey.
Through prayer, reflection, and meditation God was able to show me the next step. If I hadn't been as dedicated and obedient to seek God's direction this past year, I may have missed the next step in the journey. As part of my one-word and Bible verse focus for 2020, there is an opportunity before me. I shared it with my husband, unsure of his response but knowing he would be 100% honest and ask good questions. I printed off the information I planned to share so I may be able to answer most of his questions.
Here's the coolest part, I shared my idea and before I could finish he had a question and a statement:
1) This only makes sense and seems like the direction you've been going
2) BUT, you, we, can't invest this kind of money and have you continue to give away your services. If you follow through with this, then you need to charge the going rate
To say my hubby knows me is an understatement. I assured him that pursuing this would enhance my next book and career. With that, full hubby support. We shared the idea with our daughter and she had the same concern as my husband. Now that I know I have their encouragement and support, it's a matter of looking at the monies. It's a BIG investment yet one that would benefit us mentally, physically, and most importantly spiritually for the rest of our lives, even if I couldn't find someone to pay for the service.
On the flip side, just like with my writing, I want to pursue this to be the best version of myself and share this knowledge with others so they can be the best version of themselves too. If you think of me, us, in the next week, please pray for us. We are praying for clarity and clearness from God before committing this type of money. It's a 200 hour and $2,200 to $2,900 investment depending on how I pay. To register by 12/31/19 saves $700, but we'd need to have $2,200 in three days.
We've been praying and talking about this. We won't make a decision in haste, if this is in God's plan then we'll know - as we plan and pray for clarity, your prayers are appreciated. If you listen to my podcast, or have followed the blog for awhile then you go I like to "Keep it Real". The reality is that education and bettering ourselves has a price tag, or two. In addition to tuition and books, there will be overnight stays for the weekend study. We are excited and look forward to how God answers our prayers.
Thank you for joining us in the journey.
Have you stepped out in faith like this before?
Please share in a comment below.
"God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn:
For you, the Eternal’s Word is your happiness.
It is your focus—from dusk to dawn.
You are like a tree, planted by flowing,
cool streams of water that never run dry.
Your fruit ripens in its time;
your leaves never fade or curl in the summer sun.
No matter what you do, you prosper."
Psalm 1:1a,2-3
For you, the Eternal’s Word is your happiness.
It is your focus—from dusk to dawn.
You are like a tree, planted by flowing,
cool streams of water that never run dry.
Your fruit ripens in its time;
your leaves never fade or curl in the summer sun.
No matter what you do, you prosper."
Psalm 1:1a,2-3
...I started a journey into the woods to take pictures of deer tracks in the snow and paused to notice the creek. I stood, watched, listened, and enjoyed the moment. The initial goal was to take a picture of a deer's solo tracks on a path in the woods yet in the short walk to take this picture God captured my attention with this scene.
We are like this creek. Regardless of the temperature, weather, and situation...with our eyes focused on God, we keep moving.
The question is this, are you moving with the flow of the water pushing through the ice and debris or are you frozen on the edges, left to watch the days go by? I want to encourage you, "...don’t follow the advice of those who delight in wicked schemes...avoid sin’s highway...and don't let judgment and sarcasm beckon you..." Psalm 1:1b Good things are waiting for you when you let go of the icy edge, remember the first part of this verse, "God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn".
When we let go and go with the flow, God's blessings are "awaiting you at every turn". The only way we can experience and recognize God's blessings is to change our focus from the icy edge and focus on the forward flow of the water, keeping our eyes, hearts, and minds focused on God and all He's called us to be and do.
We are like this creek. Regardless of the temperature, weather, and situation...with our eyes focused on God, we keep moving.
The question is this, are you moving with the flow of the water pushing through the ice and debris or are you frozen on the edges, left to watch the days go by? I want to encourage you, "...don’t follow the advice of those who delight in wicked schemes...avoid sin’s highway...and don't let judgment and sarcasm beckon you..." Psalm 1:1b Good things are waiting for you when you let go of the icy edge, remember the first part of this verse, "God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn".
When we let go and go with the flow, God's blessings are "awaiting you at every turn". The only way we can experience and recognize God's blessings is to change our focus from the icy edge and focus on the forward flow of the water, keeping our eyes, hearts, and minds focused on God and all He's called us to be and do.
You have the ability to go with the flow,
when you let Go. When will you let go?
Today's post is a shout out to those looking for ways to give gifts that will not only change a life but also help someone local. During the holidays it's easy to get caught up with the sales and deals but we need to remember to help support the little guys, those of us who strive to have a personal business.
I don't usually do a lot of promoting of my books or other ventures yet as I look to Christmas and keeping it local. I want to share some of the ways you can get goodies for you and those you love this holiday season, and throughout the year.
In addition to by books, which are available on Amazon.com and at The River's End Bookstore...I also am an Avon Representative and an IBO for PURE. Let me tell you more about each of these and how you can place an order.
I don't usually do a lot of promoting of my books or other ventures yet as I look to Christmas and keeping it local. I want to share some of the ways you can get goodies for you and those you love this holiday season, and throughout the year.
In addition to by books, which are available on Amazon.com and at The River's End Bookstore...I also am an Avon Representative and an IBO for PURE. Let me tell you more about each of these and how you can place an order.
INDEPENDENT BUSINESS OWNER
As an IBO, you participate in the compensation plan and incentive programs. You’ll receive a Personal website to promote your business, access to a personalized virtual back office and the ability to earn travel around the globe. You’ll also get a 25% discount off all retail product pricing. Start your business today with an annual fee of $25. Annual renewal fee is $25. You may cancel at any time by emailing salessupport@livepure.com.
PREFERRED CUSTOMER
As a Preferred Customer, you receive a 20% discount off the retail price by enrolling in Autoship. Autoship ensures you get your favorite products delivered to your doorstep every 28 days. As a Preferred Customer, you are eligible to participate in the PAR Program (PURE Autoship Rewards) — a great way to earn free products and exclusive offers. Your AutoShip may be canceled at any time by emailing salessupport@livepure.com.
RETAIL CUSTOMER
As a Retail Customer, you get to enjoy the benefits of all the products offered by PURE. We know you will love them as much as we do.
TO SIGN UP AND START ENJOYING THE BENEFITS OF PURE'S PRODUCTS: CLICK HERE
REFERRED BY
Lisa Buske - US11274179
If getting healthy
isn't your game,
maybe Avon is...
Thank you in advance if you place an Avon order or join my PURE team of healthier living...
Who knows, you might want to freshen up your makeup to highlight your healthier body...
And with that, this blog is done.
Thanks for reading to the end. If you know of anyone looking for a new supplement or company to help them be healthy...share today's blog.
If you know someone looking for an Avon representative, please share this blog and my information - Avon's online ordering is quick and easy, and arrives at your door within 2-3 days.
You don't need to wait for me or to coordinate schedules any longer, you have the power to order when you want without the hassle of making time. Woot Woot!
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