tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83620612183068901222024-03-21T08:07:43.810-05:00Breathing Lightilluminating nightBreath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-49202344645335670682009-10-14T09:52:00.002-05:002009-10-14T09:55:35.326-05:00X Factor ReplayHow quickly things can change. Sometimes I think I'm going crazy. Other times I think it is outside forces that make me <em>think</em> I am crazy. He and I are ending AGAIN. And I am heartbroken AGAIN. Why do we torture each other like this? Our love is like a battle. Lauryn really knew what she was talking about. I really want him to let go. For real this time.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-46959981000071190812009-10-06T15:30:00.002-05:002009-10-06T15:44:37.658-05:00The RootI recently (within the last month) joined a local gym. And I have reignited my love for working out. Particularly group exercise classes. I have made it a mini mission to try all the classes offered. This will help me mix it up and not get bored easily. It will also keep my body from getting use to the same activity over and over and again which could cause my weight loss progress to plateau. Right now I am committed to going to the gym a minimum of 3 days a week. Fortunately this goal has proven easy so far. I dropped an easy 6 pounds right away, and have been teetering back and forth with 2 of those pounds. My daily food intake hasn’t changed too much except I’ve practically cut out fast foods. As I make these small changes in my life to affect a greater change in how I love I realize this method works best for me. Tackle small goals and make them daily habits and I don’t see them as a challenge anymore. Just how I live.<br /><br />I admit the last week I have slacked on preparing nutritious meals at home. So as I’m finding myself becoming a habitual gym-attendee, I need to focus again on planning and cooking meals at home. Inspiring Mama has some awesome 14 day meal plans on her blog. I plan to use them as a guide to planning my own meals at home. New recipes always jump start my cooking sprees so I will be researching some great soups and foods that incorporate yummy root veggies and fall foods. Sometimes there is nothing more comforting than a bowl of delicious soup! Well, besides a good yoga session.<br /><br />Yoga is one of my new obsessions. Where has it been all my life? Really the question is, why have I been avoiding it. I’ve always been curious about yoga. Mostly because people who practice yoga seem to be a little too hype about it. I would think “it really can’t be THAT good.” Well I recently had to remind myself not to knock it until I’ve tried it. After my yoga classes I feel relaxed and invigorated all at the same time. I feel good about myself and my body. A surprise was FEELING the workout when I practice yoga. Last week’s class had me sweating. I didn’t know it was really possible. My flexibility has already increased after only a few weeks. I enjoy it so much and have incorporated it into my fitness routine. Once a week I commit to attending one of the yoga classes at the gym. I even bought my own yoga mat since the once at the gym smell like sweaty toes that marinated in the dark for 3 weeks unwashed. lol. I can just imagine the bacterial and fungal colonies populating those mats. No sir. I’ll bring my own thank you much.<br /><br />On the love front it’s an interesting journey. He and I have really broken ground on some things we didn’t previously address. We have matured in a lot of ways and thankfully both realized we still have maturing to do. Our love has become stronger because of it. And more honest. This makes me very happy and gives me certain confidence that’s hard to explain. I just know that right now Love abides.<br /><br />In reflecting on my live just over the last few months I see myself really working at building strong foundations in all areas of my life. Just putting in to action the things I’ve been saying I want to do. Doing them. And realizing the reluctance I previously felt was fear. And realizing the fear was of success. I’m learning not to fear the greatness within me.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-7634557403411341382009-07-23T09:44:00.001-05:002009-07-23T09:44:38.147-05:00Shimmy all the way homeToday it rained. It was such a heavy and sudden downpour. my mind <br>quickly thought of my garden and how the plants would enjoy the <br>additional moisture.<p>Today was also the day of my first belly dancing class. I am starting <br>with the basics class since this is my first time taking it. Thus far <br>it is enjoyable and not difficult at all. I felt very comfortable <br>moving my body with such isolated movements. I was pleasantly surprised <br>to see such a diverse group of women in the class. The instructor has a <br>great sense of humor and I am looking forward to class next week.<br>--<br>Sent from my T-Mobile Sidekick®Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-65912773711750169142009-06-22T22:37:00.004-05:002009-08-14T09:50:41.218-05:00Extra, Extra! Read all about itI finally sat down and typed out the bulk of my hair story. Stuff many close to me don't even know about. Check out a blog feature on me at <a href="http://blackgirllonghair.blogspot.com/">Black Girl with Long Hair</a>. Aside from blessing me with a great interview, that blog is super informative and inspirational. Check it out.<br /><br /><a href="http://blackgirllonghair.blogspot.com/2009/06/monday-style-icon-felicia.html">Part I</a><br /><br /><a href="http://blackgirllonghair.blogspot.com/2009/06/thrift-store-shopping-tips-from-style.html">Part II </a><br /><br />Love and Eternal Light to all!Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-26543976622949540442009-05-10T00:04:00.000-05:002009-05-10T00:04:00.382-05:00What's New?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTn3YXhaREtUmKK1NIUJJeik4MwuGi99D6hRSU5oqJXTl0vxzYIGPHAZJYayUORf4ZepK6Trugf7GdPs50Li_7M86EQn1NpGgpxcKaXf7llDWOd84jWTmcGhxRus5XVpyIZOTlkJIcaid/s1600-h/tomatobaby.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332812147992358306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTn3YXhaREtUmKK1NIUJJeik4MwuGi99D6hRSU5oqJXTl0vxzYIGPHAZJYayUORf4ZepK6Trugf7GdPs50Li_7M86EQn1NpGgpxcKaXf7llDWOd84jWTmcGhxRus5XVpyIZOTlkJIcaid/s400/tomatobaby.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">Shutter Click & Chat 5/10: </div><br /><div>What's new?! Show me something, someone new in your life. I've been gone a while and I'd like to get caught up on what's new with you!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>For the lovely Tea and Honey Bread... Above is a picture of my new tomato plants. I'm trying my green thumb at some gardening this year. I'm starting my tomatoes inside and plan to transplant them to the garden in a few more weeks. I'm blogging more about it (and other life changes) elsewhere. If interested in reading my other blog just leave a comment with your email or shoot me an email.</div><div> </div><div>BLESS!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-69045579108550539192009-04-16T15:09:00.004-05:002009-04-16T15:20:19.218-05:00ReflectionsI give thanks for such beautiful and inspiring people who cross my path. The last few weeks I've felt so revived. And I've been just LIVING. Motivation is high, but I must remain focused as well.<br /><br />I went to orientation for my doula training. The first official training class will be April 25th. Before then I hope to do a little more reading and research to keep my mind and thoughts on what I'm trying to accomplish.<br /><br />I've decided on a studio to take belly dancing lessons. The spring sessions overlap with my doula training so I await the summer schedule and plan to start then.<br /><br />I have three weddings I'm excited to attend this year. One of which I am the maid of honor. NICE.<br /><br />The weather is warming, the sun is shining and I have been trying to get outside to enjoy it as much as possible. The lil One and I have been reaquaiting ourselves with the neighborhood. The trees, birds, bugs and plants. I'm shifting more toward the life I want for myself and living IN it presently. My spirit is in a happy place right now and I find it hard to stop smiling.<br /><br />I've also noticed that things have just been "working out" for me. I receive each blessing with gratitude. And give thanks to God for everything.<br /><br />Right now I'm toying with the idea of moving my blog. Once I actually decide I'll post an update and let the regular readers know where to contact me in the case they would like to follow me to the new space.<br /><br />Until Next Time<br /><br />Bless!Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-42127341715995540822009-03-22T00:38:00.001-05:002009-03-22T13:47:42.190-05:00Can't have one without the otherThis one is for the lovely <a href="http://teanhoneybread.blogspot.com/">Tea & Honeybread</a>. This is my submission for the<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Shutter Click & Chat 03/22: Two<br />Show me a couple or pair of anything you deem shutter click and chat-worthy. <em></em><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9mw1XoGZwscQGkjJ800ar5eEBmacLRh0d0CmyTaSCQdehUvUsAALRVC89A3CGieIYdbz5CabZ-QfIwXIN1EK9GN9n3Z0ldVo1Ft7Q4WpHa6btyPwV9RVPpQ0k5xrOfXJMx3JPPE1rl4O/s1600-h/mail.google.com.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9mw1XoGZwscQGkjJ800ar5eEBmacLRh0d0CmyTaSCQdehUvUsAALRVC89A3CGieIYdbz5CabZ-QfIwXIN1EK9GN9n3Z0ldVo1Ft7Q4WpHa6btyPwV9RVPpQ0k5xrOfXJMx3JPPE1rl4O/s320/mail.google.com.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315543116889036242" border="0" /></a>The story behind this photo is kinda cute. The lil Prince decided he wanted to lose his gloves two Sundays ago. I still have no idea where those gloves are. He had them before church and somehow they disappeared by the end of church. Well that following week we had forecasts for very cold weather, including a snow storm. And my child had no other gloves or mittens. He has this knack for losing them. Well the night before the big drop in temperature he asks me if I found him new mittens. I had searched in vain and no stores (not even thrift store) had boys mittens or gloves in stock. I told him that I'd make him some mittens that night and they'd be ready for him in the morning. My lil Prince has a creative mind and requested before bed that I make red thumbs. He thinks I can do anything.<br /><br />So I did like any good mother would do. I tried to make it happen. I put in a dvd and got to crocheting. Fortunately for him I add the thumbs last on my mittens. And even more fortunate there was some red yarn in the scrap yarn. So he awoke to some "really cool" mittens with red thumbs. I am sooo SuperMom. Needless to say he loved them. And as of today, he has lost one of those mittens :|Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-15851819047154471362009-03-21T00:25:00.010-05:002009-03-21T00:52:07.661-05:00Memories of the Little ElephantThe little one received a new book in the mail:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5I8_rt0VTERtZtH3bajEg0RhT5nMGizzpscaa5NK1PRYj_M6I_Q8FUAJrw62JqeZjgc5RWkIiyXXSutd3ORE0TCNEu0PedZ8A3vMnb8SETLihS71l2Y-Olj2o0y9j_Lflw5gLbSZHW8e/s1600-h/March+2009+045.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5I8_rt0VTERtZtH3bajEg0RhT5nMGizzpscaa5NK1PRYj_M6I_Q8FUAJrw62JqeZjgc5RWkIiyXXSutd3ORE0TCNEu0PedZ8A3vMnb8SETLihS71l2Y-Olj2o0y9j_Lflw5gLbSZHW8e/s320/March+2009+045.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315510231227760242" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2o-VG0mSEieZXFeipmA1X7Il41ePh4NTldwqJQZvN5QCg6adY_-uCdjmjWPyPf3ksTyjDy1yQH8eJHp3jX0KQmMZYRsPbZZdB1alCyPdajfGzB5zW6rfiex0slYNmotRC7zVZ7k-LjB1/s1600-h/March+2009+048.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2o-VG0mSEieZXFeipmA1X7Il41ePh4NTldwqJQZvN5QCg6adY_-uCdjmjWPyPf3ksTyjDy1yQH8eJHp3jX0KQmMZYRsPbZZdB1alCyPdajfGzB5zW6rfiex0slYNmotRC7zVZ7k-LjB1/s320/March+2009+048.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315510099205961506" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0qqW3OaNkt862DaJZg8jSLvlDfROKVhaJULrpG9q5_J2HB6m0BrMWAKa4ZjKAtLQddSCNRztFrtE6wNOcBYZw890Ym2xplxwzlf0t6j0ECgpsDHXl-IKNzFT7R0zS364Kpo4-ss1VN_z/s1600-h/March+2009+051.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0qqW3OaNkt862DaJZg8jSLvlDfROKVhaJULrpG9q5_J2HB6m0BrMWAKa4ZjKAtLQddSCNRztFrtE6wNOcBYZw890Ym2xplxwzlf0t6j0ECgpsDHXl-IKNzFT7R0zS364Kpo4-ss1VN_z/s320/March+2009+051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315510003447932066" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDw_XZLYUefi_LHJirpSf6bPBD4vvK_03noZ9MjoV5E3WcfgZRNCQuthep9NlNqnvuGfeLVztS5Ei1yaFtgJIBXu0P4pSd0adtBsAatHilHVw6rg5mo9FUyBtTTyDsBPINNIxPjSkA47hh/s1600-h/little-elephant.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDw_XZLYUefi_LHJirpSf6bPBD4vvK_03noZ9MjoV5E3WcfgZRNCQuthep9NlNqnvuGfeLVztS5Ei1yaFtgJIBXu0P4pSd0adtBsAatHilHVw6rg5mo9FUyBtTTyDsBPINNIxPjSkA47hh/s320/little-elephant.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315508954217014034" border="0" /></a>I did a video review of a Children's book and wanted to share here as well. Please check out the review and visit the website. This is an amazing book that I highly suggest all parents include in their child's library.<br /><br />Title: Memories of the Little Elephant<br />Author: Nehprii Amenii<br />Illustrator: Nehprii Amenii<br />Publisher: Khunum Productions<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nehpriiamenii.com/">www.nehpriiamenii.com</a><br /><br /><br /><object width="445" height="364"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2-zFXNKYDZA&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2-zFXNKYDZA&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-80942957242645857712009-03-16T21:51:00.005-05:002009-03-16T22:44:26.763-05:00Tag and stuffOver the last month or so I've been in such a positive spot and then I allowed someone to take my joy for moment earlier today. I'm pissed at myself for allowing such madness to happen. And in my madness I lost my cool. And I really don't want to be that person. I don't like it when I allow someone to bring out anything other than the best in me. S0 I'm on a mission to get my chi back in order ASAP.<br /><br />As I'm growing, I'm learning that in order for me to forgive others I need to forgive myself. I know I've struggled with forgiving myself for many years. Especially when I get in mode of focus. Right now the direction the Creator is taking me is so filled with promise. And day by day God's promises are manifesting in my life. It's like a party I don't want to ever stop. I have to make sure I enjoy every moment. And enjoy it presently. It feels good not to be filled with worry all the time. I give thanks for that.<br /><br />I've been slowly cleaning and reorganizing the home after splitting from my former Kingman. We no longer live together. In all reality I love him and am trying my best to handle this split with dignity. But he does not seem to be handling it well and I must deal with the effects of that. I will say that I am very sure that not being with him right now is the best thing for me. <br /><br />As I clear my mind, heart and physical space I feel renewed with a fresh sense of confidence in who I am and who I am becoming. I haven't felt it so sincerely in a long time. I've strived for it, but haven't felt like I dedicated myself to fully achieving it. If that makes sense.<br /><br />I'm very much full of optimism and it's a feeling I don't want to let go of. <br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I give thanks to my Creator for every Breath of Light.</span><br /><br /><br /><br />I dusted off the webcam and uploaded a video tag. Rather than ramble in text, I'll embed it here for your personal enjoyment. <br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/E02x_p40m70&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/E02x_p40m70&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />I also did quick hair update via video blogging. Who says a sistah can't do it all?<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-H82I3Q7S8U&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-H82I3Q7S8U&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-43413353911052124772009-02-28T22:39:00.008-06:002009-02-28T22:49:58.267-06:00...with the quickness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5VNwErMJ2VUH77yzymnnzRg2_5odgf86SXlhalwtGi99Bqb8VgBQfKKhyphenhypheneiaExkbM9tXhDfj6OyIBs93bL2sqCuWb5G1mbTcHh8HodJizhG71LrcwDEPoNncv05Cuz_rCPORUR9v_cvY/s1600-h/Feb+2009+028.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5VNwErMJ2VUH77yzymnnzRg2_5odgf86SXlhalwtGi99Bqb8VgBQfKKhyphenhypheneiaExkbM9tXhDfj6OyIBs93bL2sqCuWb5G1mbTcHh8HodJizhG71LrcwDEPoNncv05Cuz_rCPORUR9v_cvY/s320/Feb+2009+028.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308076992680600194" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgEJi_PwMBTmGM1fWS1Hdm_9C5CPjBW0ge_6AhP60kFvokzAXVhvY4-IQTZhgTJIOpS02ftws2AxYLpCScEL23Vte94gumGzwYiitKxElOyWlEERgxRnTrF8KWrvhHax96VULDXZ7380A/s1600-h/Feb+2009+029.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgEJi_PwMBTmGM1fWS1Hdm_9C5CPjBW0ge_6AhP60kFvokzAXVhvY4-IQTZhgTJIOpS02ftws2AxYLpCScEL23Vte94gumGzwYiitKxElOyWlEERgxRnTrF8KWrvhHax96VULDXZ7380A/s320/Feb+2009+029.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308075437512572354" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Life has been good to me lately. Blessings overflow and for the most part I'm staying focused on goals (I bought a step machine!). Optimism is high, LOVE is strong.<br /><br />I've been lurking sooo many blogs lately. I've also been buying shoes! Prayerfully more meaningful blogging will resume in the next few weeks. Until then, I'm still living.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87gYPKb-oGd-VmGRP2nzTe7Xyx5McrR2tVQZjCUpOpR4gUjXKHYtouN4liyxfBAHnSiXVRS3R5ifcsqJiG9eGTYQQWtBPhQTy-9FngQimMnGTusV4zNO2WT2aT5D-74eavC8zUjglHw8H/s1600-h/Feb+2009+068.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87gYPKb-oGd-VmGRP2nzTe7Xyx5McrR2tVQZjCUpOpR4gUjXKHYtouN4liyxfBAHnSiXVRS3R5ifcsqJiG9eGTYQQWtBPhQTy-9FngQimMnGTusV4zNO2WT2aT5D-74eavC8zUjglHw8H/s320/Feb+2009+068.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308075147557944786" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsz2Dcrs7W_1TDXS9ymDU1wmVqxcB3B5UicnBdabRBbUizKZ37xotRMC6Vycb5dGpiso2c5sjpBTjo5yLc4hRHLPXtig65c92wHA4GrZJfooD3WBz8RqC2Waa8Dr7Gvx-4fUl4UEztHEW/s1600-h/Feb+2009+064.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsz2Dcrs7W_1TDXS9ymDU1wmVqxcB3B5UicnBdabRBbUizKZ37xotRMC6Vycb5dGpiso2c5sjpBTjo5yLc4hRHLPXtig65c92wHA4GrZJfooD3WBz8RqC2Waa8Dr7Gvx-4fUl4UEztHEW/s320/Feb+2009+064.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308076051969153298" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPA8YvrUXiYFZlfcqhtWL9dLdPq8M7KZHcHPQ0lpY9HYsQSs6uOy8gFMF88n2B6u0M1EMU3cVfA6OfEqhw1o3yXor_9KGHLx4h_GZNR_TunGnKtmFwWsjW_X7fxZLCoTnsrk6ciku1BGk/s1600-h/Feb+2009+061.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPA8YvrUXiYFZlfcqhtWL9dLdPq8M7KZHcHPQ0lpY9HYsQSs6uOy8gFMF88n2B6u0M1EMU3cVfA6OfEqhw1o3yXor_9KGHLx4h_GZNR_TunGnKtmFwWsjW_X7fxZLCoTnsrk6ciku1BGk/s320/Feb+2009+061.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308076288726209506" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4Xbbdzc-k5IkUfbktkZrpj7mqN7ed8EbyUUKiqcy5meOv9KzynPZue4JuedxOygJ981zudQgtKMmpyj-4Zm41t8x0pwTrzbpA0GrkR5JkKqHQj44a72A94Fs4Iksxmnuo_dekdg0zd_x/s1600-h/Feb+2009+058.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4Xbbdzc-k5IkUfbktkZrpj7mqN7ed8EbyUUKiqcy5meOv9KzynPZue4JuedxOygJ981zudQgtKMmpyj-4Zm41t8x0pwTrzbpA0GrkR5JkKqHQj44a72A94Fs4Iksxmnuo_dekdg0zd_x/s320/Feb+2009+058.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308074980903500354" border="0" /></a>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-62471501388932324872009-02-10T13:35:00.003-06:002009-02-10T13:39:45.925-06:00Coming up for airI've been in transition mode. And for personal reasons I made my blog private where no one can read it. I even contemplated deleting it all together. It's funny how a person thinks they know you after reading a few words. And it just aches my heart to know a person can be so ill-hearted as to try and use some positivity for negativity. But I've decided God will deal with that and I cannot control their nature. They will be who they are and I won't let that change the woman that I am becoming.<br /><br />With that being said, I miss all of you in blog land. Hopefully I'll be back soon with a proper update on the goings on and a fresh new look-o-di-blog.<br /><br /><em>I give thanks to my Creator for giving me strength</em><br /><em></em>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-62314897576184151172008-12-14T22:28:00.012-06:002008-12-14T23:07:00.157-06:00The Creators have been so good to me!Though this post won't be solely dedicated to my fly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sistah</span> over at <a href="http://flytieonline.blogspot.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Flytieonline</span></a>, I need to give her the respect, love and appreciation she deserves. I can't even recall when exactly I found myself drawn to her. Probably the first time I saw something she had created. No, a matter of fact I think I first saw something she created for another sister and I AND to find out who it was putting all that creativity in one garment. Whatever or whenever it was I just know that now I have so much admiration for her and her work. And I think the rest of the world (or whatever part of it that reads this blog) should take note. And if you're feeling really good, go ahead and buy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">something</span> of hers. I promise you will never regret it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMX4DIxhNVUbhOgu0DjR3iuHchWm7ueYFGgkiQYlWioATQp2pu7rKp7cvQNamXsT_nT2MhPFEHeThRHB0qxJ2cCJG8PwKIbg-joWm6Suxx3HV2Y-GWcuSlNENlNElJTqEVhsQWbRkDzHFA/s1600-h/100_0284.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMX4DIxhNVUbhOgu0DjR3iuHchWm7ueYFGgkiQYlWioATQp2pu7rKp7cvQNamXsT_nT2MhPFEHeThRHB0qxJ2cCJG8PwKIbg-joWm6Suxx3HV2Y-GWcuSlNENlNElJTqEVhsQWbRkDzHFA/s320/100_0284.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279871803418628418" border="0" /></a><br />So just before Thanksgiving I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">received</span> THE BEST <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">HOODIE</span> ever in the mail. I was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">ecstatic</span>! See, I had been drooling over her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15339748"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Steppin</span> Razor</a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">hoodie</span> for quite some time. And as the Universe would have it I finally have one of my own. Please people forgive me for not having better pictures f the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">hoodie</span> right now. But as I said before it's about time I openly let her know how much I appreciated not only her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">generosity</span>, but her thoughtfulness and talent. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">hoodie</span> fits perfectly, it's in the most perfect colors a person could make it in. IT'S <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">REVERSIBLE</span>. Yes you heard right! Please somebody pinch me. What I most appreciate about it is the intricate <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">hand stitching</span> details she put into it. I know how much that sucks. But she didn't half ass it. Everything looks so professional and perfect. I only wish she had put her tag on it somewhere. I wouldn't care WHERE, but I would want folks to know immediately it's hers. I *heart* my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">hoodie</span>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfCDn1f6NBsy-qL1qF5uSrzLInUtC-4NUBUq_KrWoKiLyj0irpcHF2sPsLXtrLFKFRsHNr0XBudDd9rciIRC-ZeqA8AVp-cg1f2ItOiwUpKRmmVoxtfWDZoEK9R_PsW-Xgy4Jr1uKLXJ9/s1600-h/100_0286.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfCDn1f6NBsy-qL1qF5uSrzLInUtC-4NUBUq_KrWoKiLyj0irpcHF2sPsLXtrLFKFRsHNr0XBudDd9rciIRC-ZeqA8AVp-cg1f2ItOiwUpKRmmVoxtfWDZoEK9R_PsW-Xgy4Jr1uKLXJ9/s320/100_0286.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279871993141907698" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Once I got it in the mail I immediately put it on. Then I proceeded to wear it three days in a row. Once on the green side and twice on the purple side. Since then I think I wear it at least once a week. Probably more, I just don't want <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">yall</span> knowing how much I repeat clothes. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">lol</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacOb4kONsRlSUIa9EpEsdFTKtZhz06qHxtoNXoemz48Jdf-7dku6Sk1bywi_azGfp1d7XVbiLeKWxSbC43rQe48MD1X_mxgoUZLsvR0HE-v4RcK5MoLXHpaO_XdzWkTYuF_tsnI09gtLX/s1600-h/100_0289.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacOb4kONsRlSUIa9EpEsdFTKtZhz06qHxtoNXoemz48Jdf-7dku6Sk1bywi_azGfp1d7XVbiLeKWxSbC43rQe48MD1X_mxgoUZLsvR0HE-v4RcK5MoLXHpaO_XdzWkTYuF_tsnI09gtLX/s320/100_0289.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279872133119966418" border="0" /></a>T, thank you so much! I can't tell you enough how much I love this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">hoodie</span> and how much I appreciate you. You are an amazing designer. Keep doing what you do.<br /><br />In other stylish deliciousness I bought some fly earring from another <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">etsy</span> shop call <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5285678">www.Lunaversoul.com</a>. People please peep the Dragon Fly Remix!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhie9HPKozD7gTzFXUTohADRjc9F4ZaHNllTW0yiSbUoAN6gGg4KSBYAGw_bkxsU-wFKHiYxg8TjLxpEl6dWjMSoRNKAaD17dFcJap5HUFl56vBSfLMsUPxaMiJlhT2eba4hD1O4h8rfaFo/s1600-h/100_0229b.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhie9HPKozD7gTzFXUTohADRjc9F4ZaHNllTW0yiSbUoAN6gGg4KSBYAGw_bkxsU-wFKHiYxg8TjLxpEl6dWjMSoRNKAaD17dFcJap5HUFl56vBSfLMsUPxaMiJlhT2eba4hD1O4h8rfaFo/s320/100_0229b.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279873509501790066" border="0" /></a>Take note of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">asymmetry</span>. Oh.Em.Gee! I wear these earrings with everything. They are quite the conversation starter. What I appreciate about this seller is that she was more than accommodating to my pesky metal allow sensitivities. And she substituted the hooks with gold plated ones at no additional charge! Go head nah! Excuse me while I rock 'em real hard like:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePXs3OCr8E5EimOAQRRepjBiblom1EUD69tyaivAXy5dMKTBMutPWG_Qtq_oiL7NRgUms4qdjaeXVGaEbLNIdW61QcWRXAdpIDidxQjoQhbqm4DXFybH_8mE-wz8rQPHpMPr2uHhhK7n5/s1600-h/100_0217.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePXs3OCr8E5EimOAQRRepjBiblom1EUD69tyaivAXy5dMKTBMutPWG_Qtq_oiL7NRgUms4qdjaeXVGaEbLNIdW61QcWRXAdpIDidxQjoQhbqm4DXFybH_8mE-wz8rQPHpMPr2uHhhK7n5/s320/100_0217.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279874875939249218" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWd4a_Wp9TnwUaeepRXrLZGXBTn-llONx0i0f2R4QlxSpoVWnkIba-j2EAIEOyJ96u42q3va9rXk57lX40r_R3ANTFPB-n4WJiVOLaBs1DxprRVXEK5kAdVfNhArCz0Cptw9bLYm5QERtF/s1600-h/100_0224.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWd4a_Wp9TnwUaeepRXrLZGXBTn-llONx0i0f2R4QlxSpoVWnkIba-j2EAIEOyJ96u42q3va9rXk57lX40r_R3ANTFPB-n4WJiVOLaBs1DxprRVXEK5kAdVfNhArCz0Cptw9bLYm5QERtF/s320/100_0224.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279874658965588082" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sTfTkR3EJZOF4AFvGEzMe6fR0aBcsfWRyL6mG3DmhQAV8hN6feVonjrbJlzkhcgpwFsJjforBQ-sOl84B_PVBWXzycIc3pYstWn8rahXvS0TWSRdt2Sk3qiaGwh8va9dtFke_UUeFRW1/s1600-h/100_0222.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sTfTkR3EJZOF4AFvGEzMe6fR0aBcsfWRyL6mG3DmhQAV8hN6feVonjrbJlzkhcgpwFsJjforBQ-sOl84B_PVBWXzycIc3pYstWn8rahXvS0TWSRdt2Sk3qiaGwh8va9dtFke_UUeFRW1/s320/100_0222.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279874482135500594" border="0" /></a>Also take note of the new hair do. I finally put some braid extensions in my hair. It took me 4 days! It normally would have taken me maybe one full day including breaks for food and bathroom. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">lol</span>. But I was extremely sick. I had to take a two day break because walking pneumonia would not allow me to move very much. Being ill is no fun at all. And it reminded me once again I need to take care of myself. I was M.I.A. from work and got a late start in my new position in the Training Department. I'm feeling like so much has transpired since my last post. I hardly know where to start! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Tis</span> late in the day and I wanted to get these thoughts and such out now before my busy week started up.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I give thanks to my Creator for good friends, good family, LIFE, LOVE and Joy. </span>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-70707067518964187192008-11-20T18:24:00.006-06:002008-11-20T18:39:31.230-06:00Inspired once again<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFnWbmkyjXH7asz0XbNlq2VZ-d8of4OttkXFppUQhBmexs8NGT13WFEPuvCBI2Wq1MxtT4bQAysui7FmJDSF0Z-vAcydk1jR81iTNcYYoqYq4WTLgr1ehoA2Y0ix927BZkbUsxOTCVxpW/s1600-h/Diane+von+Furstenberg+Longrono+Double+Breasted+Crochet+Sweater+Coat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFnWbmkyjXH7asz0XbNlq2VZ-d8of4OttkXFppUQhBmexs8NGT13WFEPuvCBI2Wq1MxtT4bQAysui7FmJDSF0Z-vAcydk1jR81iTNcYYoqYq4WTLgr1ehoA2Y0ix927BZkbUsxOTCVxpW/s320/Diane+von+Furstenberg+Longrono+Double+Breasted+Crochet+Sweater+Coat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270903154516458674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNl59sG7xhn01JYg7Y_Rrz1f6UYCIFCOF8Ff5YqnsRMI41bVLJXS8srtBxY_rCaJ_KbcesHowNVTO5-8SHEaanEvfUgQQPSlZtBCzVF5WQSW2gV05tYO9PXxJM5zYddVaF88FkTNGY16A9/s1600-h/Diane+von+Furstenberg+Longrono+Double+Breasted+Crochet+Sweater+Coat2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNl59sG7xhn01JYg7Y_Rrz1f6UYCIFCOF8Ff5YqnsRMI41bVLJXS8srtBxY_rCaJ_KbcesHowNVTO5-8SHEaanEvfUgQQPSlZtBCzVF5WQSW2gV05tYO9PXxJM5zYddVaF88FkTNGY16A9/s320/Diane+von+Furstenberg+Longrono+Double+Breasted+Crochet+Sweater+Coat2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270902948968696594" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span> <p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:georgia;" ><span style="font-size:130%;">I must make this. I spotted this coat via random googling for crochet wearables more than a year ago. Ran across it again and I still *<b>heart</b>* it very much. I truly believe I can crochet a very similar version of this. My verson would be tweeked a bit. Namely, the bottom trim would be a different stitch pattern. I’m thinking the coat was done using the “top down” method of crochet. Top down is just was it says, the item is worked from the top down. I prefer that method for garments because it provides a better drape, the item can be tried on and sized as you go and there is little to no seaming required. Can you imagine this as a toddler coat? I don’t believe I’d ever WEAR this myself, but I could surely see some lil chica rocking it. How fly.</span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:georgia;" ><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:georgia;" ><span style="font-size:130%;">I've been crocheting bit by bit. I've had a couple of custom orders which are now complete. When this sickness finally decides to leave my body and give me back my energy I hope to work up a few things to add to inventory. I have only a few things left in the <a href="http://breathoflight.etsy.com/">store</a>, but that's a blessing since it means someone is buying my creations.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >I give thanks to the Creator for the new opportunity unfolding in my life. Amen.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-90028726961511066812008-11-04T23:01:00.004-06:002008-11-04T23:09:27.035-06:00Yes, we can. And did.I'm proud beyond words to be a black right now. Not too many years ago I was certain that I would never in my lifetime see a day when a person of African decent would become president of the United States. But I am proud (of America) to type today that the time has come.<br /><br />I don't know that other ethnic backgrounds understand or are able to grasp how deep today is for black Americans. We now have real, tangible hope. Nuff said.<br /><br />Peace to all tonight. May God's Light continue to shine in your lives.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-83750348305157039942008-10-28T21:52:00.008-05:002008-10-28T22:42:53.784-05:00Feel Like Singing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117606_4614.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117606_4614.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My lil one has been singing a lot lately. The bug has caught on because I find myself humming and singing to fill the quiet moments. I pray he continues to spread good vibes.<br /><br />I need some serious rest. Everything is pointing to exhaustion. I know I need to rest but there is always something to do. Isn't that the quintessential dilemma of the black woman? So much to do, so little rest?<br /><br />This past weekend was so amazing. I had such a wonderful time at the Women's Retreat. I learned that my sisters, mother and I have a bond that many people envy. And I'm honored to be a part of a circle of women who have endured, uplifted and pushed on over the years.<br /><br />I tried to take lots of pictures. Here are a few:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117292_1545.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117292_1545.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117294_4070.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 532px; height: 399px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117294_4070.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Prayer before departure.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117430_5216.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 554px; height: 415px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117430_5216.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Being silly with my older sis.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117295_5189.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117295_5189.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Above is my mother in the foreground.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117459_4234.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117459_4234.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>My older sister and myself enjoying breakfast.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117445_9902.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 510px; height: 383px;" src="http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117445_9902.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Fellowship with the other young ladies at breakfast.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117594_39.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117594_39.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117585_1375.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 490px; height: 367px;" src="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117585_1375.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I made the purple shrug and sash you see above. The vision was my mother's I just found a way to manifest it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117589_8858.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 558px; height: 418px;" src="http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117589_8858.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I also made the blouses/tunics above.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117584_1075.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 530px; height: 412px;" src="http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117584_1075.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>More praise dancing.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117583_785.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 481px; height: 361px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117583_785.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117601_2935.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 453px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117601_2935.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Symbolic foot washing by an elder.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117599_1989.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 453px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v344/87/16/634793283/n634793283_1117599_1989.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Enjoy and Bless!Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-38822696857968407002008-10-19T01:03:00.006-05:002008-10-19T01:03:01.111-05:00Shutter Click<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5O8y9TdaoL69opTM_MOULr2ZyuBatoilNjCJlAff6EQqzPkUFhdfI64BqgVwtp8G8gbajHV7yFVWjmRbsMvPvYAz5pccQykwYXp0IdsZhIGnOPuKa2hp5R01TOch-eAC47bAwPg75anj/s1600-h/shutterclick2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257074089120089746" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5O8y9TdaoL69opTM_MOULr2ZyuBatoilNjCJlAff6EQqzPkUFhdfI64BqgVwtp8G8gbajHV7yFVWjmRbsMvPvYAz5pccQykwYXp0IdsZhIGnOPuKa2hp5R01TOch-eAC47bAwPg75anj/s320/shutterclick2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><br /><div>This is getting kinda fun.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Shutter Click & Chat 10/19 a la <a href="http://teanhoneybread.blogspot.com/">Tea & Honey Bread<br /></a><em>Food-Tis the season for stews and soups, slow cooking, crock pot filled comforting goodness. What's on your menu? Let's see some food. C'mon, you've got to eat something!</em></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257072478441117842" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixbB7oUpx-9Kt9goCj9dydF9dWfz3Ux9bilDh-LZWHkMnpkdvXh1A3_It6WKtvLYdcAub37Fp-nRJoXEfIi86_UlDEWBuVdRW9MPtdoHtr8ZTUqLWW1h5m-mfT7dnDxpdLukJqSho6Vz5Y/s400/cornsoup.bmp" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257073982055384594" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBHFsZ2JIHX40D3XZ0op7WKtDYX3zqcB8KxURddBEaR35WdPxtml3q8UnbX_Ugdxd0uRv2my79JgsWuixdJFWF7zZZkXd3cuLoOU3JdDUroIlyYzeFSCB0pqjGYmjGgO5SgJ-0CjOyp7i/s320/shutterclick1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Above are a couple of family favorites. First is some delicious corn soup! The next one is baked tilapia with pineapple mango sauce on the side, brown rice, black beans and fried plantains. That's some good eatin'! That handsome young man is my lil Prince. He LOVES both of those meals. Well, except the plantains. He doesn't like those. What's wrong with that kid??<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-12065086324206986562008-10-15T09:31:00.006-05:002008-10-15T09:39:46.574-05:00Children and Voting<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-90fGTcBCKEgi69zz0nQxwtNm9DqvQUqGrY0Qd5YX0SzlwbOxxRYqd1brcnOMAAmD7mIUMqOhQWi7cQrT9Z1rok_ifQz9R7FkvKrgUtfaDUIohyphenhyphenWQMygVTzR2UgDkamY7ncmJXEGr55m/s1600-h/n634793283_622270_8020.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257390020798755186" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-90fGTcBCKEgi69zz0nQxwtNm9DqvQUqGrY0Qd5YX0SzlwbOxxRYqd1brcnOMAAmD7mIUMqOhQWi7cQrT9Z1rok_ifQz9R7FkvKrgUtfaDUIohyphenhyphenWQMygVTzR2UgDkamY7ncmJXEGr55m/s320/n634793283_622270_8020.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The following exchange is real and I could only WISH I was creative enough to make this type of stuff up. My Lil One and his Cousin (we'll call him T) had this discussion over dinner last nite. My Lil One is 7 years old and T is 11. </div><br /><div></div>T is the kiddo in the red. My Lil one is across from him in this picture taken this past Mother's day.<br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong>Lil One:</strong> T, who you gunna vote for?<br /><br /><strong>T:</strong> I can’t vote, I’m not 18 yet.<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> Well Lil One gets to vote at our polls, they will have a kiddie vote. Maybe ask Nana if they are doing that where she goes to vote.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>T:</strong> Well can I come with yall to go vote?</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Me:</strong> I'm not sure if we'll have the time to pick you up. We'll see.<br /><br /><strong>Lil One:</strong> T, can’t come vote with us unless he’s voting for Barack Obama.<br /><br /><strong>T:</strong> (in shock)<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> (holding in giggle) honey, you can’t MAKE someone vote for a certain person. He can vote for whoever he wants.<br /><br /><strong>Lil one:</strong> Yeah huh! Because if he’s going to be in line with our family he gotta vote for Barack Obama. He can’t stand with our family if he don’t vote for Barack Obama.<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> Um…<br /><br />/End Scene</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Yall pray for this child. lol. He just wants to see a "brown person who is assertive" be President of the United States of America. I can't say I blame him too much. lol</div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-39885214126479295842008-10-14T10:08:00.003-05:002008-10-14T10:18:35.969-05:007 Things About MeJewelry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RockStar</span> tagged me, so here goes:<br /><br />1) I usually don't wear deodorant. I started this a few years ago and it's just kinda how I do things. I sweat and get funky like everybody else. But the only person who can tell on a regular basis is my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Kingman</span>. That's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">cuz</span> he's the only one who gets close enough to me to notice that hint of musk. And he has no problem with my natural scent.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257027553603554210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Vo84vL5mx394pjbhFR5-uObBaP_F9KUMy0rN_9-1ksvW1I2O1lQ3ZghBv09auXAKRy2j_-2w2gUOW9aOOYbrMplOev_vI9hUPRGvJde7f9CbUECzZw5xsEfNlEw8ELcYixQAtRvzGviP/s320/sweatypits.JPG" border="0" /><br />2) I no <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">likey</span> spiders. I'm super afraid of them. Something about 8 legs and the thought of them touching me freaks me the heck out. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">blech</span>! If you want to see me cry like a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">beeyatch</span> just put a real live spider on me. Actually, don't do that. I may pass out. Yeah it's THAT serious.<br /><br />3) I never finished college, but am researching a few universities with plans to go back and finish a degree. Albeit not the one I initially started 10 years ago. Most people think I have at least one degree because of the work I do and how <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">schmart</span> um is. They also think that my previous college education was in finance when it totally isn't. <div><div><div><div><br /><br /><div><br /><br />4) I think I have pretty feet. I'm well aware that my toes are chubby, but I think my feet are cute. Especially with nail polish. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Awww</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">wook</span> at 'em!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257022894106514498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTygz8p6A_wMvW4eWX6zZi4QcVVVhzRyI4hw86DN4anG_tH_fgDTzFcA-CHqqPqPkNsHMUcWRDkKKIEsh9OxFcsAjCqwnru_4MvviSLMRIP-3-B8ROgu8OxGQTS5iEv5Prw6Bs5LrrYg2y/s320/footsies.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>5) I don't shave my legs. Well actually I shave them every couple of years out of curiosity. I prefer them <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">unshaven</span> and no one notices anyway unless I point it out to them. I enjoy feeling the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">summer</span> breeze as it makes my leg hairs dance. </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257022741005547234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9thJp4gBvOemYcFLuy9Fjswvu5mvlyokQ7iQ45h9LzsGtF4Yqf6yWPa2vfqEXsGPxQ8i3Yg2ZSAonWqbmNDC8Z0WXr5jPxpxiUvQpSvpEVfsqZXi2_pu5jJamLeC2v7MS3H0i0Ic2x_Fs/s320/reunion+weekend+019.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>6) I have a new found love for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">panty</span>hose. I was anti- pantyhose for years and years. I was such a rebel. Now that my company dress code requires that I wear them when I wear a dress or skirt, AND I love rocking dresses and skirts, I have started building quite the collection of opaque tights. It's been an adventure thought because all tights are not created equal. So far my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">fav</span> are the tights I've worn from Target. Particularly the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Merona</span> brand. They are comfy and actually FIT. Yes ma'am that IS a paisley print dress with some navy blue tights and purple pumps. And what?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257025584814501410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXXFkfpCXn0Y3AOc3lsnWSckiztBNBayOyqIjxZQeEawpQCFww1JijJuMM_4U_1vvMf-wxHSiaa2hS69rfYXerguyevIi1k4WXZkfEFjOSEDGmpy-6s1OS4zil_u8AgY_BaGtdYI_Prc9/s320/pantyhose.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>7) I don't know that I ever want to be legally married. I mean, it sounds good and all, but I just don't want to. I don't know if I feel this way because people keep asking when my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Kingman</span> and I will get married. I certainly don't want to do it so that other people feel more comfortable about us living together, raising my son (and hopefully his daughter soon) and having sexual relations. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">lol</span>. Why do other people care so much? I feel like if I did get married it would be strictly for legal reasons like insurance, or benefits. But we do make a lovely couple don't we?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257022143210345202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3iz7e1EU83KD_wzuZSDhnnVHK8Ls7qroSR81rnD_vjKt3felxyF1XDGsKKessUfrwUJOsy0__8fqpEtVcuPC5yfRPUtggXtprx2SRcNKVlsziyRTMiMMTxpL8lDILOhcaVbMXJhhpQWV/s320/reunion+weekend+022.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>There, all done! This wasn't as easy as it looks. </div></div></div></div></div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-37513320949188147012008-10-13T16:42:00.004-05:002008-10-13T17:16:02.987-05:00Disturbula<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28hSu-IqVPnjNOJjM8jcqwNB0NRZVwLmpZRNiG7Uq06J4673bH5_4cOCS1xee9kV06EBiYjsF5rjkkUxuU6gsSvCA6u5fg3Up6MpeSQ8pn_q8rvrO45LakEH6AayW5ihaColk_CVroAGG/s1600-h/navyblue.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256759670222475570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28hSu-IqVPnjNOJjM8jcqwNB0NRZVwLmpZRNiG7Uq06J4673bH5_4cOCS1xee9kV06EBiYjsF5rjkkUxuU6gsSvCA6u5fg3Up6MpeSQ8pn_q8rvrO45LakEH6AayW5ihaColk_CVroAGG/s320/navyblue.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I haven't combed my hair in weeks. And I keep telling myself I'm going to do it, but every time I wash this luscious fro, the tiny coils get all soft and springy, I just can't mess 'em up. But at some point I HAVE to do something along the lines of detangling because I don't intend to rock one big loced fro. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I went on a lil road trip this past weekend with some ladies I went to high school with. We visited an apple orchard that also grew raspberries, pumpkins, and grapes. At the orchard we went on a hay ride that actually did not include hay. But the beautiful horses made up for the lack of hay. And I likely would have complained about itchy hay anyway. Later we went to a winery and it was equally as beautiful. Those are two things I intend on doing again with my family before the end of this year. They are suprisingly inexpensive and enjoyable. We had huge amounts of fun and I laughed more than I have in a long time. All the while I could not stop missing my Kingman. I REALLY missed him and looked forward to seeing him once I returned home. Absence really did make my heart grow founder. I even bought him a gift from Victoria's Secret, which he quickly unwrapped and enjoyed. *wink*</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>My little one seemed to have thought I was in a different continent, rather than a different state. I spend about 5 minutes on the phone with him trying to explain that I'm still in North America and Wisconsin is right next to Minnesota. He kept asking "mom why didn't you take me with you? I wanted to go to another continent, you said you'd take me". How cute and misinformed? Love that kid.</div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-87788598296454094062008-10-07T14:55:00.007-05:002008-10-07T15:12:13.202-05:00Keep on Pushin’I read a facebook status with that song in it and It’s been stuck in my head every since. Curtis Mayfield wasn’t playing mayne.<br /><br />I just need to share a couple of things with. I want to express my deepest and heartfelt gratitude to the Creator for blessing me so wonderfully lately. As always, every need of mine is taken care of, but I’ve been manifesting wants as well. And the Universe hears me and responds. A gracious and <a href="http://members.fotki.com/poochie247/about/">lovely sista friend </a>GAVE (yes you read right) me a foam dress form.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254503802295632418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwwyqZp3K1Vic5Mru7jABx1bX8eUfh9Qap-aULJ87xCKFmxymp3jnQ67rL5-hyyBP3CDv3TLB-efjTgC4UrmSQxYQuSC0ixxZEay1IBMI6qYfHbXa5jj3OpdeyqQkCK0Cxmb33wR0pKgh/s320/dressform1.JPG" border="0" />And the same day she shipped it out to me, she found another one at an estate sale that’s even better. And she wants me to have it as well. The second one she wants me to pay the same price she got it for at the estate sale. And I’m happy to oblige since it’s only $35!!! I’m elated, to say the least. But tremendously grateful for it all. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254503944694349698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9aqHOaGtQA9Ewa2Xsg8ouR8W5Tpfd-eZn6Cg6Rd9y3PVBjVhuGwyLMlAhwjNcWsJOp0Ve_3REl9EbjsW5Uw92nGLwYLw8I18wL7tGg_zZaf8XQHSgdpT5JBOKTJ_YLhqvyIlFGPvu1us_/s320/dressform2.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />I also recently purchased a pair of earrings from a fly shop on etsy called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5363223">AfriqueLaChic</a>. Well I received them in the mail yesterday along with a second pair as an added bonus. Both pair are majorly fly and fit my style with ease. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254504116917289650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVxIR58Qma6qZ2dru2ITGmOC1HPRjYbheu6JsaaJpnzngLJAK1w8UKPqzhkSQB4UkRYA5S-TchdSQvq9kotjnQ9nlsV1_Sc8wfpFcIDwptLKJ1lbsdFfOivNUONl6Dbp4SU2eFjU_Hen2K/s320/earrings+pretty.jpg" border="0" /><br />On top of all of that I had my annual review at work. My direct supervisor/director had great things to say about me. More importantly he talked about how he has taken notice of how I’ve handled the many changes our company and department have gone through the last year. he also appreciates how I’ve become the “go to” person when problems need solving and work needs to get done quickly and efficiently. It did my heart well because there was a time earlier this year when I felt a little bit taken for granted. But I pray a lot about this job and the opportunities it has afforded me. So, he finally starts talking salary and annual raises. And that’s when he reveals to me that instead of the standard, company-wide 3.5% raise I’m getting much more (can we say 11.5%) of an increase. And I won’t go into exact numbers, but it’s certainly will be a noticeable difference in my next paycheck.<br /><br />Just blessings all around! I’m a happy and appreciative camper right about now.<br /><br />All this has got me to thinking today about how I’ve been consciously thinking about the things that I DO want in my life. It’s a continuous effort to stay positive, especially when bad things happen and people around me are in that rut. But I really do try to stay on the positive side of things. I believe more and more that if I fill my heart and mind with what I want I will receive them. And I do this usually through prayer, and just putting it out there. By putting it out there I mean talking about what it is I want for myself and my life. I talk with family and friends about what I want and would like to do. I blog about it. I say it outloud even when no one is listening.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I know the Universe is listening.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-62118388921732049242008-09-29T21:27:00.003-05:002008-09-29T21:44:51.788-05:00Emotional RollercoasterSeriously, that's been me the last few weeks. Well the last few days for sure. I'm happy to find solace in my crafting. Unfortunately this digi cam (which will not speak ill of since it was gifted to me) is having issues with the flash feature. So all the pictures I've been trying to take come out dark. I've started new scarf designs that I can't even share with the www.<br />*cries*<br /><br />I'm so proud of 'em too. I've gotten the hang of the button hole feature on my sewing machine. And now I want to put button holes on everything. This sewing thing is mad fun. Tis a shame I waited so long to indulge myself in it's thready goodness. I forgive myself though.<br /><br /><br />If only it were so simple to forgive myself for other things. I seriously need to lighten up when it comes to self expectations. I know we are our own worst critic. But there are times I take it too a whole new level. And as I type this in the dark, in my dining room there is a lil mosquito type bug stuck on the lap top screen. I know it's not a mosquito for real, but I don't know wtf it is. It's annoying, that's for sure.<br /><br />Yeah, your girl is coming up on 5 years at her current employer. I already know what my raise is gunna be. It ain't much, but it's mine. And I'm very grateful to even have a job right now because I know of other people who are struggling something serious. And today I read an interesting blurb about a former employer of mine buying a former potential employer. And I smiled inside knowing that the peace I felt when the former potential employer thing didn't pan out was something real. The Universe was truly on my side. And in my heart I didn't really want the job so in a way I willed it not to happen. My spirit just told me that place was not the place for me.<br /><br />My lil Prince got another 100% on his second spelling test! He's a lil genius. Although I think the spelling words were a bit easy. They were just the days of the week. But imagine my delight when he already knew how to spell Wednesday. I'm so proud of how he's making a very conscious effort to do well in school. He actually enjoys challenging himself. I pray that drive stays in him forever and ever amen. Tomorrow his class and the other 2nd grade class are taking a field trip to a local college. I'll be going along to help keep the kids from getting lost. My lil Prince is super excited about visiting a real college campus. I'm excited for him.<br /><br />Well, hopefully pictures will be forthcoming. I need those pictures in order to list them and sell them in my shop! Argh!<br /><br />Oh, and I think I may go with the goldish, yellow color suggestion by flytie for the set to match my purple peacoat!Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-66600018039336479622008-09-25T09:36:00.003-05:002008-09-25T09:53:51.100-05:00For a limited time onlyAfter stalking the etsy treasury for the last three nights I have successfully made it in!<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=10887">First Time for Everything</a><br /><br />Hurry now kids, it's for a limited time only. Some of my favorite shops are in there. Flytie got a shot out for that gorgeous <a href="http://flytieonline.blogspot.com/2008/09/pain-light-understanding.html">Tunic Dress </a>she recently made. I *heart* it!<br /><br />I've been pretty tired, and this freezing office temperature doesn't help. The moon phase gives me a little hint as to why I'm feeling this way.<br /><br />I haven't crocheted a thing in the last few days. I kinda want some new yarn tho. lol. Think I'll work on finishing the crown I started a week or so ago.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-79524253454051318332008-09-23T11:30:00.002-05:002008-09-23T13:39:29.692-05:00100% Pure Love<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3273/2870244704_295e28a9fc.jpg?v=1221830670"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3273/2870244704_295e28a9fc.jpg?v=1221830670" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div>My lil Prince scored a 15 out of 15 on his very first spelling test. We told him he could get a special treat when we went to the grocery store. He proudly selected some Cheeto’s Hot Fries. lol. That child loves some spicy food.<br /><br />In the last week I have sold two items! I am very proud of myself, but feeling the pressure to create more. It has been on the back burner the last few days since I’ve been making it a point to do some fall cleaning and organizing on the home front. Today I plan to fold all the clothes recently washed, and organize my sewing table which also sits in the dining room. I do believe I need more storage bins for my yarn and fabric. But for now I’ll have to work with what I’ve got. I need to get over this urge to save every little scrap of fabric. Much like I use to do with yarn. It just kinda piles up into a heap of confusing tidbits of projects (some gone bad) and it can get overwhelming. My mood is affected by my environment. And a cluttered or messy environment irritates me to no end. So the plan is to organize all this stuff and eventually get more storage containers so I can KEEP it organized.<br /><br />I’ve been thinking about things I’d like to add to my winter wardrobe. Fortunately I’m already set as far as jackets and coats. I still have my lovely purple trench style pea coat. Which I still absolutely adore. But I’m trying to figure out what direction as far as color that I’d like to go with a hat, scarf and mittens. Last yearn I wasn’t exactly coordinating. I wore my coral pashmina scarf (which I still have and love wearing) and made some off white arm warmers. I plan to go the arm warmer route again since the sleeves on the coat are still too short. But the choice of color is stumping me. I could just go with a winter white again, or I can step it up with another color that would pop. Maybe a very light purple or stick with the coral so I don’t have to make a scarf? I may go yarn shopping today during my lunch break to see what I can find. I’m thinking wool is the way to go for this winter.<br /><br />I’m definitely on the look out for more cardigans. They seem to go perfectly over my dresses for added warmth. I wear cardigans year round because the office STAYS cold. I’m sitting her now (yes, blogging at work) with cold hands. I have a pair of cheap gloves that I sometimes wear to get my fingers warm again.<br /><br /><br />So I was blog hopping and came across a blogger who kept posting picture of her Bento <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bento">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bento</a> . Now first off had no idea what the heck a Bento was, but I loved how it had the lil compartments for everything and figured it would be a great way to maintain proper portion sizes for food.<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2823719022_2f9aa0ee2a.jpg?v=0"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2823719022_2f9aa0ee2a.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2823719022_2f9aa0ee2a.jpg?v=0"></a>I was thinking, man I’d love to have a dish like her lil Bento thingy. Well come to find out a Bento basically a single portion mean that traditionally contained, rice, meat and veggies. I’m like HELLO! Great idea, you Japanese folks. Lol. But seriously, I want one. I know there are various Tupperware contraptions that have the lil compartments to separate food. I think I may just buy one of those. Right now I usually have bunch of different plastic containers and sandwich bags to hold my lunches in. It can be cumbersome to remember everything and getting it to fit just right in my work bag. But the Bento seems like something I should have to maybe streamline my whole lunch packing process. So I’m on the look out for something Bento-like to fill that void in my life.<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/2821849809_3e2b53a409.jpg?v=0"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/2821849809_3e2b53a409.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a><br />But what I really want to know is, what ever happened to Crystal Waters?</div></div></div>Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-8642787523397675752008-09-13T22:19:00.003-05:002008-09-13T22:38:23.697-05:00Out of FocusThis afternoon I logged onto my email and saw that I made an etsy sale! It felt so good to see that. I'm hopeing I can complete at least one more piece this weekend to post in my shop. It's tempting to spend the proceeds from this sale on stuff I'd like for myself on etsy. But my master plan includes cycling the money from sales back into the shop. I plan to purchase more yarn and some other items I've been wanting. I'd love to have some fabric tags made to include in my crochet items. <br /><br />Man, I just had a total brain freeze. I stared typing out this post wanting to make it about my shop and the stuff that's in the works and I'm sitting here unable to focus. I suppose it's time to get some kind of rest. Something I've been lacking as of late. Even when I go to bed at a decent time i have a hard time getting to sleep. I figure my body will force me to sleep properly at some point. Hopefully sooner, rather than later.<br /><br />I think I'll brose some etsy shops until I fall asleep...Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8362061218306890122.post-75456344411317237962008-09-09T23:29:00.005-05:002008-09-09T23:54:37.738-05:00I Voted TodayI finished a really cool looking beanie today and am now debating on if I should list it in the store. It's a monotone blue <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">skully</span>/ beanie style hat I'm sure some dude may like. HOWEVER I got to the end and was ready to crochet in the elastic and discovered I misplaced the last bit of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">elastic</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">WTF</span>? I'm typically a "place for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">everything</span>, everything in its place" type of gal. Even when things are a mess I meticulously put things as important as elastic in its proper place because I know I'll need it again. Well I cannot find it in the usual places and that sucks monkey balls right about now. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Cuz</span> this crown is real fly and I want to share it with the world.<br /><br />Methinks I'll have to go to the craft store at some point this week or weekend and pick up a couple of things. I discovered that I have almost a whole mini skein of hot <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">pank</span> cotton yarn. Oh joy! How cool would a hot pink cloth set be? <br /><br />So as I browse some of the shops on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">etsy</span> I notice this shocking trend of folks selling "vintage" goods and charging retail (or more) prices. What is the deal with that? Clearly they have rummaged through thrift stores, garage and estate sales to find this stuff. And when did the 1990's become "vintage"? What bothers me is I know some of those dresses I see listed for $60 only cost the person about $9 but they are selling it for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">sooo</span> much more. To me it's a rip off. I'd rather get off my ass and go find the stuff in the thrift store myself. I enjoy the whole experience anyway so maybe I'm just not a good target market for their "vintage" finds. But I cannot justify paying $60 for a polyester dress that cost the seller no more than $10 to purchase themselves. <br /><br />So while I sit here typing out this rant about overpriced <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">vintage</span> goods I've considered selling <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">thrifted</span> items in my own shop. I believe myself to have a great eye for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">thrifted</span> treasures and would love to have another avenue to share that with peoples. I mean, let's be honest, folks seeing me wear the gear is not as fun as them being able to wear it themselves.<br /><br />As I contemplated a way to avoid being one of those sellers that I just ranted about I figured I'd just charge a flat fee plus the actual cost to me to purchase the item. For instance if I found a fly dress for just $4 I would list the item in my shop for the $4 plus $20 (not sure yet if that will be the amount) for my time, energy, and amazingly great eye for vintage <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">deliciousness</span>. I still keep a decent margin and I won't feel like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">i'm</span> cheating someone. And if I end up offering this "service" via my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">etsy</span> shop, I may also <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">prewash</span> each piece before selling it. That way the buyer gets fresh smelling clothes and know if it's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">actually</span> stained or not. I tend to leave stained clothes alone anyway. I've learned over the years to avoid anything stained at the thrift store because it usually won't come out.Breath of Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12994017600530799798noreply@blogger.com1