Dream Big!!

For some reason, I started thinking about this today. You know that's dangerous, right?! Ha! I will admit, this is a topic that I seem to get off on my soapbox. :) So...bear with me.

I don't know about you, but I LOVE quotes. There are way too many good ones out there! But one that I've seen before, but saw again today was this...

"Make your life a story worth telling!"

That should really make us think! What is our life all about? One thing is for sure, I LOVE living life to its fullest!! Now, I realize that there are so many different types of personalities and we all handle things different in life; but there are so many people that don't have any goals.

"You've got to have a dream, if you want to have a dream come true!"

That quote pretty much sums it up! Get out there!! Think BIG, Dream BIG!!! Live those dreams! There is nothing wrong with pursuing goals and dreams! And its NEVER too late to accomplish them!

Don't live your life with regrets! We all have things that happen in life, but you just have to push through....smile and make it a lesson learned. Yes, it's not always that easy. But, it's WORTH it!

You know, I sit here and think about all the crazy adventures that I've been on. Through the ups and downs of life. Through all my travels and through all the moments that Life has offered me. I can honestly say, I don't regret any of it. It's the valleys and the mountain tops that have help make me be the person I am today. God won't give you anything that He doesn't think you can handle! I'm not sure why I got off on this, but maybe its for a reason. We all have our moments when "life happens", but keep your chin up! Everything is gonna be okay!

My short 31 years has given me so many adventures and I'm loving every single minute. Yes, it's not all been a bed of roses, but live life to its fullest. Get out there and live those dreams! I hope that one day I can look back and say that my life story really was worth telling!!

Forgiveness

Forgiveness.

We say we forgive...but we never forget.

Is that really forgiveness???

During my Bible reading time this week, I was reading about forgiveness. Thinking about different things and situations in my life. I believe it was in Matthew where it was talking about forgiving someone 70 x 70. Do you realize how many times that is in one day?

A LOT!!

Profound huh? lol It doesn't matter how many times someone hurts you, whether it be over the course of a day or throughout a period of time. It doesn't matter what people say or the things that they do....we must forgive.

In the end, it will make us a much better person, especially knowing that we have forgiven those that hurt us or situations that have occurred in this life. It's life....things will happen, but we must forgive. We can't hold bitterness inside our hearts. If we do, it will take you places that you can't even imagine....that you don't want to go. I've seen it happen so many times.

Just a little thought that has been on my heart this week. :) I don't know if this was just me thinking or if it was meant to help someone. But nonetheless, here it is. :) I pray that God will always help us to forgive, no matter what.

Life...It's a Treasure!!

One of my sweet friend's Mom passed away about a week ago, and it has made me do a lot of thinking about life. The things we do, the places we go, and the people that are placed in it. It's such a precious gift that we often take for granted. We don't know when God will call us Home...so why not make the best of every day?! Live life to its fullest and have no regrets! One of my favorite quotes.........

"Life isn't always tied with a bow, but it's still a gift!"

New Goals

Every year around this time, people always make New Years Resolutions.

I've never liked that term.

I'd rather make Goals.

Goals just seem to be more appropriate. Easier to reach. Something to strive towards. Resolutions-not so much. I have a lot of goals on my list for this upcoming year. Some life changing goals. Some spiritual goals. Some personal goals.

Most of all I just what to live life to its fullest. Dream big. Stay positive. Stay thankful. Listen more. And a big one for me this year is to welcome change.

I love the start of a new year. There is just something that makes it feel like you can start fresh. A brand new beginning. Writing another chapter in this thing called Life. :)

There is a frame in my room that I like to put quotes, etc. on. I change it from time to time. But the one I've chosen to start out the year with is this:

I love it. It's a great reminder!

I'm trusting God for many great things this year. Holding onto the Word that has been spoken into my life and trusting Him in ways I never thought.

I pray that each one of you has a very blessed year! May many great things come your way this year!

If Money Wasn't an Issue...

A friend recently asked me, "If money wasn't an issue, what would you want to do?" Honestly, I didn't really know how to answer that question. There is SO many things that I want to do. My answer was non spiritual....I want to open up a boutique. A boutique with a twist. A boutique not only for the store, but with a cafe and bakery, party planning, and a photography studio. It's a dream that one day I hope will come true. One day. But....if money wasn't an issue, that is not the only thing that I would wish to do. I haven't been able to get away from that question. It challenged me. It made me think.

What DO I want to do?

• I would love to go to an African orphanage! To just love on those kids and show them Jesus.
• To make a difference. That requires getting out of my comfort zone. It doesn't have to be big. But by simply being a friend to someone in need. Or letting them know that you understand what they are going through and showing them that you care. Making a difference doesn't require anything big. Just make a difference in their life. Show them Jesus.
• To help more children, showing them you care. Showing them God's love.
• Helping those in need. Whether it be school supplies, giving food, coats, hats, scarves, blankets, clothes, personal needs. There are so many people out there, that seriously need our help.

I will never forget when our C-Squared group adopted a family for Christmas a couple years ago. The joy that I felt going shopping for someone else that didn't have a lot. I want to get to the point where "Money isn't an issue" and I can help more for those in need...those that really need our help.

What is something that you would love to do?

The Simple Life...

The past few months have been very challenging for me. It seems like everything that could go wrong, has gone wrong. Received news that in just a few short months, I'll be loosing my job, challenges in my family, loved ones have been sick; it's been a battle. Sometimes life is not always a bowl of cherries.

Sometimes life gives you lemons, but you know what?

Make lemonade!

No matter what happens in life, there is always SOMEthing to be thankful for. There is always SOMEthing to be positive about. Yes, it's not always easy, but it will help carry you through. Look around and count your blessings. Try to live "The Simple Life".

This is one thing that I want to be better at this upcoming year. Share a smile. You never know what someone is going through when you pass them. They could have a smile on their face and you'd never know that they might be fighting the greatest battle. "The Simple Life". To be more compassionate. To be more sensitive to people's needs. "The Simple Life". Putting people first before yourself. Give a hug or two. "The Simple Life". When you ask, 'how are you?', mean it. Compliment people. Pray. Share a simple act of kindness. These are simple things, yet can mean so much!

Be positive. Stay positive. Lift people up.

Live..."The Simple Life". :)

Just a Thought...

What do you want to be remembered by?

I've been thinking a lot lately. Sounds dangerous doesn't it?! We had a lesson on this at church and I just can't get away from it. What DO we want to be remembered as? I know one thing....I DON'T want to be remembered as someone that is lazy, uncaring, ungodly, rude or selfish; the list could go on. But what is it that I want to be remembered as? You know the saying...something like, "People are watching you, how is your life story being written?" I want to be remembered as someone that is compassionate, loving, cares about others before I care for myself, godly, someone that makes you feel welcome when you walk into the room, someone you enjoy being around and not make people run, being positive in every situation, a giver, someone that is consistant, real, honest, truthful, and loyal; the list goes on and on. It makes you think...how is your life story being told?

What about you? What do you want to be remembered by?

He Holds our World!

If you know me well...you know I am totally into music. I. Love. Music! There is something about it that is so calming. I am very involved in the music department at my church and I absolutely love every single minute of it!

I am so in love with this song right now. So very thankful that God holds our world in His hands!! He never ever fails us! Even if things don't always go the way we think they should go, He is always on time! He knows exactly where we are and where we need to go. He holds OUR world in HIS hands!! He loves us so much! He will never let us go but always hold us right where we ought to be!

Never Give Up!

Never, Never, Ever Give Up!

A friend of mine that I'm connected with on facebook, shared this video today. I found myself watching it and next thing I knew tears were rolling down my face. It talks of a young man who was running a race (and should have won) but because of an injury he fell to the ground, his father running to his side telling him that he didn't have to finish. The young man was determined to complete the race, so the father finished it with him.

It goes on to say that God's love is just like this. I couldn't agree more! When we are struggling, and having a hard time hanging in there, when life hits hard and things don't always go the way we want them to, don't give up! He always comes to pick us up! Never ever give up, but lean to the One that has everlasting love!! I'm so thankful that He is there not only in the rough times but in the good as well! He is our Joy!

Please take 5 minutes out of your day to watch this. If you know of someone that is struggling, please share with them and encourage someone in your path today!

It's 'that' Feeling: Four Week Challenge

I'm happy to report that I'm back on track again!! These past couple of weeks have been great!! Back to eating good and working out on a regular schedule again...which makes me a super happy girl! I always miss the nights that I am "too busy" to work out. But, I'm feeling good and can't wait to see what the next few weeks have to offer!

Beginning tomorrow-I'm starting a Four Week Challenge! In four short weeks I'll be leaving on a jet plane out of the country, which I'm super excited about! So between now and then I've set some small goals for myself and hoping to achieve them! Someone PLEASE help keep me accountable!!

I'm excited and hoping that this will break the plateau! So ready to get past this point!

Last week, Sarah and I were able to meet up with our friend Melissa...she has recently lost over 60 pounds and she looks AWESOME!!! Melissa, if you are reading this, I am sooo proud of you! You have been such an inspiration to me!

One thing to remember is...if you fail today, start again TODAY! Don't wait for tomorrow!

Hope yall have a wonderful week!

Until next time...

It's 'That' Feeling...

It's been a little while since I've posted anything on 'the' subject. So if anyone was following this particular post, I apologize. If you're not familiar with this post...this is where I'm trying to keep myself accountable to eating good and working out and keeping tabs on how I feel through this journey. February was a hard month in the whole "eating good" thing. But thankfully I'm back on track...and working out more, and I'm feeling good! It's such a good feeling when you make progress and achieve goals! So here's *cheers* to another week of eating healthy and working out!!

Just remember...if you're trying to achieve healthy goals...DON'T give up!!! If you mess up...start over! Don't wait for the next week, start now!!

Hope yall are having a wonderful weekend!!

It's 'that' Feeling: Update

Oopsie! Looks like I missed a week. So here it is for the last two weeks! :) Pretty sure that this is probably the most boring posts ever...but thanks for humoring me and reading them anyways. LOL

Last week was a little rough. We had some c r a z y intense weather that included a BLIZZARD so it was hard to get to the gym. I did try my best to get the workouts done at home. Weigh in was awesome though!! So far...I've lost 10 pounds and 2-3 inches! Yippie!

This week I have totally been off of my routine. We've had company in our home the first of the week...which means late nights and early mornings. That doesn't quite mix so much anymore. ha! Is that really what turning 30 does to you?! LOL So its been another rough week with getting the time to workout...but I'm determined to get back on schedule! Because its 'that' feeling that makes you feel sooo good!

I'm really loving the workouts at the gym! Who would've known?! Me, of all people, is loving lifting weights! Yeah, you heard me right....I am LOVING it! It makes your muscles feel so good!! I'm so thankful I have a friend to go with!!

Well, thats pretty much it for the last couple of weeks! *cheers* Here's to the next week of getting back on schedule! :)

Hope yall are having a wonderful week!

It's 'that' Feeling: Update!

Can't believe its that time again! There really hasn't been much going on since the post last week. My time has been pretty much consumed either by work, church, or going to the gym. Haven't had much free time other than that. We've been going to the gym at least 3 times a week.

So, for my update this week: We met for our free fitness orientation at the gym last night! Which means...we met with a Personal Trainer for an hour! I honestly have to say, I loved it!! Kris was her name...and she was fab! We first met with her and went over some important health info, what workouts we've been doing, etc...then she went around and wrote out a workout routine for us to do! It was wonderful! We learned so many different machines and what they were for...and let me tell you...we found some muscles we didn't even know existed! LOL

I'm very excited about this new workout routine and will have to let you know how it is going, next week! Right now, I'm feeling GREAT and can already tell a big difference!! Kris encouraged us SO much last night!!! So to return the favor, let me encourage you as she did us. If you are out there and you WANT to make a difference in your own life or you WANT to meet those personal goals you've set, just know that you CAN accomplish them!! We have control over our body and if we set our minds to do it, we CAN get there!! I have personal evidence! Two friends of mine, Susan and Melissa, made up their mind last spring and they have acheived many if not almost all of their goals!! They look amazing and have come so far!!! They inspired me so much!! So just know that YOU CAN do this!!

I trust that yall are having a wonderful week!!

Until next time...

It's 'that' Feeling!

At the name of the post, you're probably wondering what this is all about. As you may know from a previous post, one of my goals this year (and every year) is to "Get Fit.Get Healthy" and in the process work on shedding some unwanted poundage. Yeah yeah, we all want to loose that extra poundage right?! My sister, Robyn, and I have been trying to keep each other accountable every.single.day to make sure we are eating healthy and working out. She recently found some very inspirational blogs about true success stories and how people "went public" with their goals and it helped keep them on track...while I was reading them, it made me want to get up and work out right.then.and.there. :)

So that is exactly what I'm doing...'gone public'...about my "Get Fit.Get Healthy" goal! All I ask is that you (no matter who you are) help keep me accountable! That is one reason why I'm blogging for the world to see is so I can have extra accountability! THIS is the year, right?! :)

I'll give updates as I can...and be 'real' about it....for being REAL is the ONLY way to go, right?! :) I'm NOT blogging about this to brag but simply as accountability. :)

So here it is...
I've been doing my workout dvd's at home since the first week of January...a little off and on...trying to get in the swing of things. After the holidays it was a little hard to break those crazy holiday eating habits. But through the last two weeks, I've gotten more and more determined to reach this goal.
I've worked myself up to 1 hour-1.5 hours workout 6 days a week. Well, last week was 5 days but I would say that is still pretty good. :) Last week I lost 2.5 pounds! It's not much, but its a start. Last Monday, my friend Sarah and I decided to venture out and join a gym! I'm not going to lie...I was excited, yet nervous. I don't like working out in front of people. I seriously had knots in my stomach. ha! But we got through all that. My goal with the gym is to go 2-3 times a week with Sarah...and on the other days to still workout with my dvd's at home. This way it gives a variety and won't get "bored" with it as much.

We've been to the gym a couple times this week and we are having a Fitness Orientation next week-so I'll be sure to keep you updated. It was much easier today and even tried a new machine, the elliptical. Woah...yeah that REALLY works every muscle you didn't know existed. But it felt good.

I can already tell a difference just from the last two weeks!! 'That' feeling...is GREAT!! I am so not a morning person but I almost look forward to them in the early mornings now! :)

Well...with that being said...pretty sure I just wrote a novel...so I must go before I completely bore you to tears. ha! I truly hope that if you are trying the "Get Fit.Get Healthy" goal...that this will inspire you to keep it going!

Until next time!

The Gym.A Goal

Well folks...(woah that is the Southern coming out in me) I finally did it! I signed up at the gym last night! Pretty sure I just signed my life away. LOL I'm excited though because I really think this will help me toward my "Getting fit-Getting Healthy" goal! My friend Sarah and I have been wanting to do this together but we live 45 minutes apart so we decided to meet in the middle after work. So...here we are! I've been working out to dvd's at home and hopefully this will change the scenery a little bit and help achieve the goal a little faster! So needless to say, I'm excited! A special shout out to my friends Susan and Melissa for helping inspire me to reach this goal! I'm so proud of these girls and everything they've accomplished so far! *cheers to getting healthy!*

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!