tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35911983439865666972024-02-19T20:55:39.269-08:00Inspire Design StudioInspire is a boutique design studio specializing in custom designed invitations, stationery, and storybook albums.Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-6373096113382647442012-06-04T06:26:00.001-07:002012-06-04T06:26:36.620-07:00Jess + Cam Mint Museum Uptown Wedding<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #77a4b5; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Jess & Cam were married on October 22, 2011 at First United Methodist, and then the party moved to the Mint Museum uptown. We loved their vibrant, modern, deep purple and yellow custom invitations and wedding stationery. They are such a fun couple--enjoy this little peek at some details of their special day!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image3.photobiz.com/6972/13_20120603202710_4173298_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image3.photobiz.com/7148/13_20120603202714_4173299_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image11.photobiz.com/4605/13_20120603202720_4173300_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image9.photobiz.com/4795/13_20120603202728_4173301_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image12.photobiz.com/6894/13_20120603202731_4173302_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image4.photobiz.com/842/13_20120603202736_4173303_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image6.photobiz.com/2327/13_20120603202741_4173304_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image12.photobiz.com/6179/13_20120603202744_4173305_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" src="http://image12.photobiz.com/6094/13_20120603202749_4173306_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Pictures courtesy of <a href="http://www.kristinbyrumblog.com/?p=157" style="color: #77a4b5; text-decoration: none;">Kristin Byrum Photography</a>.</span></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-15092079073932568112012-06-01T06:49:00.000-07:002012-06-01T06:49:45.692-07:00Field of Dreams<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #77a4b5; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">We are thrilled to be a sponsor for the 2nd annual <a href="http://www.charlottefieldofdreams.com/home.html" style="color: #77a4b5; text-decoration: none;">Charlotte Field of Dreams</a> this summer!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" src="http://image10.photobiz.com/3481/13_20120531162912_4164182_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> This is an amazing event where any child who has beaten or is battling any form of pediatric cancer is invited to go enjoy a gorgeous field of sunflowers, while area photographers capture the memories with their services for free. Thanks to other community sponsors, there will also be music, food, and fun activities. Families can share their challenges and triumphs with others who understand what they're going through, and encourage each other in their fight. It promises to be a night full of FUN and HOPE!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Julie at <a href="http://blog.inhisimagebyjulie.com/" style="color: #77a4b5; text-decoration: none;">In His Image</a> started this incredible event last year, and Stephanie had the privilege of designing the new logo.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" src="http://image9.photobiz.com/3060/13_20120531162923_4164184_medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Join us on <strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">July 9, 2012</strong> from 6-9 pm - if your family would like to be photographed, please contact Julie <a href="http://www.charlottefieldofdreams.com/contactustoattend.html" style="color: #77a4b5; text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</span></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-73334802614258145182012-05-29T13:25:00.000-07:002012-05-29T13:25:05.617-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To view full post visit:</span><br />
<a href="http://www.howdoyouinspire.com/blog"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>www.howdoyouinspire.com/blog</b></span></a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #77a4b5; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">First, we want to welcome you to the BRAND NEW Inspire Design Studio BLOG!!! This has been a work in progress for quite some time, so we are very excited for its release! We also want to introduce you to the Inspire Team!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #77a4b5; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #77a4b5; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Stephanie</strong></span> the owner of Inspire Design Studio, is the heart (and brains!) of the company.<span> </span>Her attention to detail, and vision for breathtaking original designs are what set Inspire apart.<span> </span>She is a dreamer who makes things happen--finding beauty and fresh inspiration in the everyday.<span> </span>Steph loves coming up with new, original ideas for her custom designs by truly getting to know the couples she works with and what motivates <em style="font-style: italic;">them!</em></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Lauren </strong></span>is an album designer, blogger, and our social media expert. Lauren's creative writing talent combined with a natural eye for design make her the perfect fit! Many posts you see on this blog come straight from her keyboard. Trust me when I say this blog would not be possible without her.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong style="font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">Judy</strong></span> is our artistic rock star.<span> </span>Her watercolor paintings are incorporated beautifully into custom designs.<span> </span>They have abstract and impressionist qualities that add another dimension to invitations and wedding stationery.<span> </span>Judy’s work is very whimsical, soft, and dreamlike.<span> </span>She is also available for commissioned paintings and custom work.<span> </span></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-58814013583495410532012-01-17T10:34:00.000-08:002012-01-17T10:35:41.194-08:00Watch us in action at The Bridal Showcase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/O50imv7UGbs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-90909185214685946032012-01-06T08:21:00.000-08:002012-01-06T08:21:40.046-08:00The Bridal Showcase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0WX_qQQRyj5EFPEv3usWkEMl-MZei0SqlP4lhQUIme2I5yMGPO_lKVK6wbLWGHeqifJ2eQcvuGJTpNCiqYi5EMqmQAEMvNV6-fTZEeKyF0mfxZ2SY4Y_D9-kQvdX0BnEyINXxpxx39E/s1600/Bridal_Showcase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0WX_qQQRyj5EFPEv3usWkEMl-MZei0SqlP4lhQUIme2I5yMGPO_lKVK6wbLWGHeqifJ2eQcvuGJTpNCiqYi5EMqmQAEMvNV6-fTZEeKyF0mfxZ2SY4Y_D9-kQvdX0BnEyINXxpxx39E/s640/Bridal_Showcase.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Are you planning a wedding or know someone that is?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Then you don't want to miss <a href="http://www.thebridalshowcasenc.com/">The Bridal Showcase</a> this Sunday!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #990066;">2012 Shows:</span> January 8 and August 5<br />
<span style="color: #990066;">Time:</span> 12pm - 5pm<br />
<span style="color: #990066;">Tickets:</span> $12 at the door or $10 online<br />
<span style="color: #990066;">Location:</span> <span class="home"><a class="home" href="http://www.charlotteconventionctr.com/default.asp?conventioncenter=220" style="color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">The Charlotte Convention Center</a></span><a class="onetext" href="http://www.charlotteconventionctr.com/default.asp?conventioncenter=220" style="color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; list-style-type: square; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"> </a>501 S. College St., Charlotte, NC 28202</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YHZSwfAVrLYmBFtAlWMVuueR_0pYY89dIM-60aWOZR5VDrrjINtpWpoq5p9WQYmq851tJZpGvtY3ZiKJbuNCQo0rTuU65wLo7Qw-KasYglJ3e-XLFv-8tHOQxyEA3dPDlk6qURSvUqY/s1600/August_Show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YHZSwfAVrLYmBFtAlWMVuueR_0pYY89dIM-60aWOZR5VDrrjINtpWpoq5p9WQYmq851tJZpGvtY3ZiKJbuNCQo0rTuU65wLo7Qw-KasYglJ3e-XLFv-8tHOQxyEA3dPDlk6qURSvUqY/s400/August_Show.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our booth from the 2011 Show!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-32198381070279254662012-01-04T13:39:00.000-08:002012-01-04T13:42:23.947-08:002012 SMART Goals<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was inspired to write down my 2012 "Resolutions" today after reading </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://inspiresmartsuccess.com/blog/walk-in-my-shoes-wednesday-new-year%E2%80%99s-resolutions-for-2012/">Stacie Francombe's blog</a>.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I put the word resolution in quotation marks because I think of it in a negative way. If I call it a resolution, I won't be doing it anymore by February...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So instead I am going to list a few of my S.M.A.R.T goals for the year</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-based goals.}</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>1. Take Inspire Design Studio to the next level.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666;">S.</span> I want to double my sales and strengthen my branding.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">M.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Divide that number by 12 - that's where I need to be each month.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> In order to grow my business I need to do a number of things:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Stay on top of SEO and social media.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Continue to network and grow relationships with wedding professionals.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Be consistent and intentional with all of my branding.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Do my VERY BEST work for every job.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Hire an intern(s)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• <a href="http://inspiresmartsuccess.com/program/">ISS Mentoring</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">R.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Track where business is coming from, so I can determine what marketing and advertising strategies are being effective. Know who my target demographic is.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">T.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> December 31st, 2012</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>2. Stay healthy.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">S.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I know this one plays into the whole resolution thing... but my goal isn't to loose weight, fit into a certain pair of jeans, or look hot in a bathing suite. I want to feel great and live a long life. With cancer being a part of my past, I am truly thankful for being healthy today.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">M.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I will be measuring my success with a scale, but more importantly based on how I FEEL. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> This is my plan:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• workout 6 days a week (I get out of the habit easily if I skip too many days)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• A nutritionist once told me "eat the rainbow". It makes perfect sense when you think about it: apple-red, orange-well orange, banana-yellow, broccoli-green, blueberries- blue, eggplant-purple. My artistic personality really likes this!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Take </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.theaimcompanies.com/products/barleylife/powder_and_capsules.aspx?prodcode=5626E&lid=138">Barley Life</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> every day.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">R.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I don't believe in 'quick fix' diets - it all comes down to what we're <b>putting in</b> our body and we're <b>doing with</b> our body.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">T.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> For the rest of my life.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>3. Weekly date night with my hubby.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">S.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> My husband and I rotate who plans the date. I do it one week, he does it the following.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">M.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Have someone hold you accountable. At the beginning of our church small group every week, we go around and tell our date night stories. It's great to get new ideas, plus it holds us accountable!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Date nights don't have to be a fancy or expensive. Our favorite is to cook a new meal and sit by our fire pit with a glass of wine. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">R.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Too often we get busy with life and take our spouse for granted. Having a date night once a week gives us time to reconnect and enjoy each others company.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">T.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <b>Once a week. Every week.</b></span>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-88440429621435617642011-12-19T08:42:00.000-08:002011-12-19T08:43:38.089-08:00Inspire Smart SuccessTwo weeks ago I went to an event that changed my life & has forever changed my business.<br />
The <a href="http://inspiresmartsuccess.com/">Inspire Smart Success Experience</a> in Riviera Maya, Mexico.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RBa5ErAhQmfJBJe4KlIGq21nXzGjyYtem7PywGr_WGX81CazV1YT6OW0v1IFayjmZyWJxNpgcixWlISK7jm43uIMUdjTu71UstrBTAZ8p8ZPcy3S_LwI-U65FUIwO8poaHn8LKtjoTQ/s1600/ISSE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RBa5ErAhQmfJBJe4KlIGq21nXzGjyYtem7PywGr_WGX81CazV1YT6OW0v1IFayjmZyWJxNpgcixWlISK7jm43uIMUdjTu71UstrBTAZ8p8ZPcy3S_LwI-U65FUIwO8poaHn8LKtjoTQ/s400/ISSE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before going, I described it as a conference for wedding professionals.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today I will describe it as a true EXPERIENCE for wedding professionals.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Their mission statement "Inspiring small business owners to think smart</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">on their journey to success" really sums it up beautifully.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I came home with a notebook FULL of motivational messages, practical business tips,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and inspiring ideas. Here are a few of my favorites:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Be who you are.</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." -Oscar Wilde</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Have a distinct style, find your niche, be a trend-setter.</span><br />
<b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dream Big!</span></b></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• You can be ANYTHING you want to be.</span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Never give up. Keep going.</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Try and try again!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Be willing to work harder than you ever have before.</span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Educate yourself.</span></b></span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Know EVERYTHING there is to know about your business.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Set S.M.A.R.T goals:</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-based goals.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Get the right people to support you.</span></b></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• "Letting go of negative people doesn't mean you hate them,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">it just means that you love yourself."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Be vulnerable, reach out to people.</span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have faith.</span></b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• "A man's gift makes room for him" Proverbs 18:16</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• Faith is the only thing that will get you through the tough times</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and will show you your limitations.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Give back.</span></b></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">• "You have not lived today until you have done something for someone</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">who can never repay you." - John Bunyan</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I will post more as I begin implementing some of the practical aspects.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the mean time, check out this video from <a href="http://epicmotion.com/">Epic Motion</a></span></span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://vimeo.com/33380420"><b>{ISSE} VIDEO</b></a></span>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-8461271918689053882011-11-07T12:09:00.000-08:002011-11-07T12:09:51.701-08:00His WillImagine a beautiful butterfly dipping down and landing on your hand.<br />
You could grab it and hold it tight, but what good would that be?<br />
How much better to open your hand and let it soar off.<br />
When we say goodbye to our disappointments, we are opening our hands and<br />
letting the disappointments go. We are letting God do His will in our lives.<br />
<i>~Jan & David Stoop "Saying Goodbye to Disappointments"</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-W2_8pv-2C39AHUjQb7WLthyH2FcP6bqhNyufqGgAWxXrxlTpwk9iwc6vvAwa556yPUHHzfWIngAae9LKQZT2iLOqNW5eokYXSjfHdHLWpw-w8GJyv8JpezAZyhILbSBSiDPwkgeli4/s1600/Tiger-Swallowtail-Butterfly-on-a-Purple-Coneflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-W2_8pv-2C39AHUjQb7WLthyH2FcP6bqhNyufqGgAWxXrxlTpwk9iwc6vvAwa556yPUHHzfWIngAae9LKQZT2iLOqNW5eokYXSjfHdHLWpw-w8GJyv8JpezAZyhILbSBSiDPwkgeli4/s400/Tiger-Swallowtail-Butterfly-on-a-Purple-Coneflower.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-73549377459822561012011-10-03T06:42:00.000-07:002011-10-03T06:42:01.720-07:00Todays Season<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoH4pkm4dzsMPC1f5-b5hyphenhyphenlJqkUvMXUZKXs24Ah8dxo_drAAT4E-7FHbC2drR1KjmcsjED5A0-a6NS0ABU3beYppDAlETO5pOBKO90Cm5OTIly4J7f74vQeQP0N25Cwj22oXIDXq06lo/s1600/Fu0hyVmO.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoH4pkm4dzsMPC1f5-b5hyphenhyphenlJqkUvMXUZKXs24Ah8dxo_drAAT4E-7FHbC2drR1KjmcsjED5A0-a6NS0ABU3beYppDAlETO5pOBKO90Cm5OTIly4J7f74vQeQP0N25Cwj22oXIDXq06lo/s400/Fu0hyVmO.jpeg" width="274" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I love this photo. It’s probably one of my favorites to date.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">That’s my Grandpap about five years ago on one of his many East Coast road trips.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Not long after this photo was taken, he passed away at 75 years young while riding</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">his Harley back home from a day out with friends. He thought that ride would</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">simply be his last of the season.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">A few days ago, on the forth anniversary of his passing, I began to think about what</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I may be like when I (God-willing) make it to 75 years old too. Will I have the body,</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">mind and spirit to still do the things that I love to do with those that I love?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I will be 30 (gulp) in less than two months and can’t believe where the years have</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">gone. And while I have accomplished a number of things that I am proud of, I want</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">more. Heck, doesn’t everyone?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I notice that I worry more now about my future than I ever have before.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">As a planner, my instinct to well, plan and try and control as many variables as</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">possible. And as much as I know that ultimately I am not the one in control, I still</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">fight very hard to be at least a close second.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">This photo reminds and inspires me to let go of my planner instincts and embrace</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">my sometimes hard to find carefree spirit. To open my arms to the wind, and let my</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">heart do the talking. To not take advantage of today and not get too wrapped up in</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">what ifs of tomorrow.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">To enjoy my season until my riding days are done.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">~ Anne Markey is owner of Favor Me Events, an event planning company</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">based in Charlotte, NC</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.favormeevents.com/">www.favormeevents.com</a></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-9505584195821910852011-09-26T06:50:00.000-07:002011-09-26T06:50:48.674-07:00What If Everyone<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The vision of What If Everyone is to inspire people to serve humanity.</span><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(I LOVE this powerful statement!)</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The mission is to create opportunities for people to serve their community</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">in practical ways. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The strategy is two fold:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. To partner with organizations, non-profits and churches that want to impact their community & organize citywide serve days.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. To be a resource for individuals who desire to serve their community.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We have participated in WIE for the past two years. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These experiences have changed our perspectives, molded our hearts,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and have given us the desire to make a difference in our city.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The next What If Everyone serve day is SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8th. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Visit</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">: <a href="http://www.whatifeveryone.com/">www.whatifeveryone.com</a> t</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">o sign up for a project today!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~ Brad & Stephanie</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1v2GInASa2IF8vrsb18e96fmmrliC6tPTxz5_d3rXGtqlHT43aIacNch44PmVDT9Kb62oCcMaL4FiMKg961_PjlJQg5x8HN417_dUFT6fg6W-lj6dE9SRMYrXWHYN-iksc4PV_fxMNps/s1600/WIE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1v2GInASa2IF8vrsb18e96fmmrliC6tPTxz5_d3rXGtqlHT43aIacNch44PmVDT9Kb62oCcMaL4FiMKg961_PjlJQg5x8HN417_dUFT6fg6W-lj6dE9SRMYrXWHYN-iksc4PV_fxMNps/s400/WIE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-34951044756118216602011-09-22T07:25:00.000-07:002011-09-22T07:25:54.916-07:00Balques<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>498</o:Words> <o:Characters>2845</o:Characters> <o:Company>Inspire Design Studio</o:Company> <o:Lines>23</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>6</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>3337</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>14.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch> <o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276"> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:Calibri;}
</style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Today, I was inspired by an amazing woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was curled up in the sofa sipping hot tea with my mother-in-law, when I asked her what I thought was a relatively straightforward question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">“Amiji (Mother in Urdu), how old were you when your mother died?” I asked.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">She stared into her mug thinking for a moment, and then said in her broken English, “After my first period, then she died.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Things started to make sense then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a few days prior when I was filling out a job application for her and I asked her how old she was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shrugged her shoulders slightly while mumbling something about looking at her passport to find out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Balques was born and raised as a Muslim in Lahore, Pakistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had not been allowed to go to school because her family did not believe it was important for girls to receive an education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So she begged her uncle to teach her to read and write.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">And here we were, sitting in my den enjoying our hot tea together as I began to have a glimpse of a little girl, born around the same time Pakistan became an independent country from British India. She was eager to learn, one of 5 kids growing up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One day her mother went to the hospital for surgery, and she never came home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few weeks later her grandmother showed up from the village to teach Balques how to cook and clean and take care of the household.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her father, a mechanic by trade, was a good man who loved his family, but he had to work hard to provide for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never remarried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Balques was 18 (she only knew this, she told me, because that is what was written on her marriage license), she entered into an arranged marriage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">The other day she said she wants to learn to read English better so she can read her grandson a bed time story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything in her life is done for others – she is the epitome of sacrificial living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more time we spend together, the more I am burdened with a sadness of the heartache she has endured, losing her mother at a young age, the marriage that was not the romantic fairy tale of which so many girls dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaving everything she knew to move to a foreign country to be with her kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to delve in to her memories, to taste and smell the town she grew up in, to see her parents as she remembered them, to get a glimpse of the life of a young Pakistani girl who would come to influence my life in ways I never could have imagined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to hold that small, lonely girl who had lost her mother, to hug her and give her a word of hope and encouragement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">But now I just sit there, across from the women she became, strong, resilient, determined; sipping tea, asking a question here or there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What did you do while you lived with your husband’s family?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I took care of the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I played.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved to jump rope,” she laughed, with a mischievous grin, probably imagining herself at 18, married, playing games and wondering when her husband would return from Kuwait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But once I was pregnant, my auntie told me I had to stop jumping rope.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">That one comment made me realize that behind the broken English and the head covering was an amazing woman whose life reminds me to appreciate my own childhood, my loving parents, my education, my husband, kids, beautiful home, fulfilling ministry, freedom, and every little detail of life that I tend to take for granted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">~Ashley Fazal</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Ashley is the driving force behind <a href="http://whatifeveryone.com/">What If Everyone</a>. The concept being: What If Everyone did something to help their community? The next WIE is coming up on Saturday, OCTOBER 8th! Go online to sign up for a project now. (You won't be sorry, it's an incredible experience!!)</span></div><!--EndFragment-->Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-43178692826975080322011-09-14T06:07:00.000-07:002011-09-14T07:39:08.245-07:00Savor: Delight in, EnjoyTo savor means to delight in, to enjoy. I’ve been thinking about this word a lot lately. When I first heard the word I immediately thought of the last scrumptious thing that hit my tongue, which is usually sushi or chocolate. But can’t we savor more than food? Don’t get me wrong. I love a fantastic meal and a great glass of wine. And I savor them both. But, shouldn’t we savor more aspects of our complex lives? For example, recently my heart was overcome with joy seeing a service dog in training. There was something about that innocent pup learning to harness his future purpose that warmed my heart to its core. I stopped and savored the moment watching the trainer and trainee walk together as one. This morning I carved out 90 minutes to enjoy the crisp fall air. Hot cup of tea in hand, a soft blanket and a new book I’ve been trying to start reading for the past 3 weeks; I got cozy. For those of us who are married I also think it’s important to savor the good bye kiss we give our significant other when we part. If you don’t do this, you should! You never know when that kiss might be the last kiss you share. Even in sadness, there are special moments to savor such as the expression of forgiveness and the end of pain. Often I savor the memory I have of massaging my grandfather’s feet as he lay in his hospital bed the day before he died. I was never closer to my grandfather than at that time. Sarah Young wrote, “Fantasizing about future happiness will never bring fulfillment, because fantasy is unreality.” What do you need to savor today?<br />
<br />
~ Shayne Buchanan<br />
<a href="http://www.kyovba.com/">www.kyovba.com</a>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-10414584703811382332011-09-13T10:09:00.000-07:002011-09-13T10:09:22.497-07:00Fast Forward…Rewind…Play!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ever get the feeling life is whizzing by so fast you can hardly keep your head straight? I mean I remember my 13th birthday and how I made plans to conquer the world by 25. I remember being 25 thinking – “Wow 30 is just around the corner!” I remember my 35th birthday which was probably the year I decided to stop looking at age as a number and just enjoy the days I’ve been given and the people put in my path.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> That being said – my life right now with a husband, a 4-year old and a 9-month old – could not be more frenetic. Sometimes I have to force myself to sit and grab a few minutes of “me” time. This is when I realize that now is the best part of my life and I get a renewed sense of gratitude to God for blessing me with the family I always wanted.It took a lot for me to get here. Lots of hurdles, tragedies and drama from my past have molded and shaped me into the person I am today. I can now look back and say that I am thankful for each valley I had to struggle through to get to the top of the mountain. I am thankful for all the nurturing relationships in my life and most of all thankful to God for never forsaking me even when I was rebellious.<br />
<br />
I love my life. I love my family and friends. Most of all – I am so grateful for every day that I can share with them. No matter where your life is at right now, know that every situation happens as a learning tool. Once you’ve learned your lesson – then you will move along to the next chapter. Your life is like a book – enjoy the adventure!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~ Debi Adam is owner of SignPost, Inc.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.lookformysign.com/">www.lookformysign.com</a></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you need help developing your business with social media networking she is the lady to talk to!!</span>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-69549234810381976302011-09-07T07:58:00.000-07:002011-09-07T07:58:32.540-07:00The Woman at the WellShe woke up in the late morning with stiff legs. Her body was too young for such aches. She examined the bruises and concluded that they felt worse than they looked. She had become accustomed to avoiding others as diminutive village life was convenient for memorizing the comings and goings of the good, the holy, and the predictable. However, children were far less predictable and quick to throw stones when opportunity – her presence – transpired.<br />
<br />
A rumbling snore and then a sigh escaped the man laying next to her. It was neither the worst nor the best arrangement she had ever compromised to live in. Nothing could rouse him after a long night of nursing wine. With the exception of bedding her, he was difficult to rouse in all manners of life which made him easy to live with. She safely existed in the knowledge that his emotions towards her were superficial as the years had gently aged her. Leather workers were all about what they could experience with their hands. <br />
<br />
Daylight seeped through the shabby muslin curtains in the cool earth hut. Gossiping voices, children playing, and footsteps moving quickly on packed dirt echoed from the narrow street. A mere wall stood between her and them as provincial life hustled and bustled beyond. She justified keeping the wooden shutters closed in anticipation of the days rising heat swelling the air.<br />
<br />
An unmarried woman who paid the rent with her body was not above female household duties. Domesticity was a meal ticket. She pulled the brown stiff curtain that separated the bedroom from the kitchen in the modest one room house. Busying herself with preparing food, sweeping, and tidying could be accomplished in the morning; however, washing clothes and the remaining dishes would have to wait until the scorching midday sun pushed her neighbors back into their shady dwellings.<br />
<br />
“How did I get here?” She seldom asked herself this. Such simple questions never hold simple answers. Pain is an impossible emotion to feel when numbness consumes the body. Beyond questions, beyond anger, and far beyond the years that lead to this moment, she was a childless woman with five ex-husbands, a string of lovers, no religion, and little hope of salvation.<br />
<br />
Finally, the world outside went quiet. Wrapping the long scarf around her head, she picked up the clay water jug. The street was abandoned when she shut the door behind. Her skin felt like it was baking underneath her clothes as beads of sweat dappled her hairline. Forlorn solitude was the only solace that her journey would be uneventful. Women did not like to share water with the unclean. <br />
<br />
The hot blistering sun battered the earth making the air wave like water. The mirage made the well appear to be swaying in the distance as if to beckon her forward. With a parched throat and dry mouth, thirst consumed her every thought. A promise of a cool drink made the distance between her and the well seemed much further than it was. <br />
<br />
Her eyes began to focus more clearly with each step drawing her closer to the well. Her heart sank. She expected to be alone. There was a man. <br />
<br />
John 4: 1-42<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>~ Elena Michel is the owner Second Eden Studio. They offer sustainable consultancy and design.</div><div><a href="http://www.secondedenstudio.com/">www.secondedenstudio.com</a></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-6822709836627374482011-09-05T09:10:00.000-07:002011-09-05T09:10:09.500-07:00Potential.<br />
<div style="background-color: transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.8138534906320274" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have been racking my brain for a while to think of what in the whole world inspires me. What is it, more than anything, that gets me going. I thought through most every spectrum of my life to think of a common thread that ties the all together. Finally I got it: potential.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By trade, I’m a wife, mother, </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Restoration/245192195499817"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">crafter</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, runner, community organizer. Throughout each of the things I’m involved with, something has to keep me going. Because I don’t have a boss hanging over my head or a time clock to punch in to, the responsibility of staying inspired daily lies on my shoulders. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My husband makes fun of me often, as a good husband should. Just yesterday, he rolled his eyes and got borderline mad when I told him that yes, I did, in fact, want to keep the Trader Joe’s bags. He let me keep 1, oh gracious soul that he is. As I was driving around town Saturday, I passed, as we all do, a pile of supposed junk on the side of the road. I stopped and found something I’d been looking for for a while: a low coffee table (though I was not necessarily looking for one covered in old wall paper and dirt). At </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Free-Store-Charlotte/130216280367360"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Free Store</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, one of the most inspiring places I’ve been, I happened upon an old bulletin board and happily toted it home with me. Nothing special about it, just thought it might be useful.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Are you following me here? All these things are trash. Seriously. They are. Things that people discard in some way or another. What I love about these things, however, is that they hold such great potential. The Trader Joe’s bag (notice it is singular) will become wrapping paper. The old coffee table- a train table for my little guy. The bulletin board- a colorful and exciting to-do list so I can keep myself organized and, well, inspired to keep going.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And as people, aren’t we all that way? We often feel discarded. We go through relationships and feel beaten down. We throw things away and wait on the city to come pick them up. It’s not until we change our perspective that suddenly even the most mundane situations/items/seasons of life can become beautiful again. Marriage is challenging but is made beautiful by the potential of what could be. Parenting is hard, but is made beautiful by the potential of who our children will become. Running can indeed be boring until we realize how far we’ve come. Thankfully, we have not been forgotten. We have a God that senses that same potential in each of us. My hope is to transfer that hope into something tangible, something hopeful, something to be a reminder of the good people are capable of.</span></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">~Liz Eagle</span></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/restoration?ref=pr_shop_more">http://www.etsy.com/shop/restoration?ref=pr_shop_more</a></span></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CDo16nao-ipM2nnhTvJc0Ria0gF94p9z9Y8gj3QuaTN7hv3wcyLafUHgyzi3rBT1Emlf6gnCZsCjzaTNPNwQ3mK6J0_jbg77SD2mFbsOdigR771ySyxFWbAwFzad_rHllUGRC6G1ZtE/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CDo16nao-ipM2nnhTvJc0Ria0gF94p9z9Y8gj3QuaTN7hv3wcyLafUHgyzi3rBT1Emlf6gnCZsCjzaTNPNwQ3mK6J0_jbg77SD2mFbsOdigR771ySyxFWbAwFzad_rHllUGRC6G1ZtE/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />
</span></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-34724243060629938342011-08-31T06:12:00.000-07:002011-08-31T06:12:54.049-07:00Thoughts from a new mama...When I first started thinking about what I would write for this blog I was so excited! This kind of thing is right up my alley. I had several "inspired" tidbits that I was eager to share with you faithful readers! I was confident that something I wrote would be as inspiring to you as it was to me. <br />
<br />
<div>Fast forward several weeks and you'll find me a new mama to a sweet baby girl named Clara. You'll also find me a little frumpy, a tad anxious, and a whole lot less inspired. You see with the birth of a baby girl came the death of a rather selfish, worldly woman. As much as I love my Clara I am mourning the lady I once was. </div><div><br />
<div>The old me would have written and told you all about some local eatery serving something delicious you should try. I love restaurants, food, and all things culinary. However, I can barely find time to make a sandwich let alone research the newest Charlotte hotspot.</div><div><br />
</div><div>The old me would have told you all about some fun fall fashion I saw in the recent InStyle. I love clothes, fashion, and a good shopping spree. However, I am behind the times and wear my pajamas a whole lot more than I'd like to admit.</div><div><br />
</div><div>The old me might have even told you about some incredible sermon that you should check out via podcast. I love listening to pastors and learning about God's word. However, right now, I'm talking to Jesus a whole lot more listening to things about Him.</div><div><br />
</div><div>You see the new me has a little girl. A little girl that will one day grow up to be a woman. When I get dressed, I think about her. When I watch a movie, I think about her. When I speak to my husband, I think about her. While she may not be watching and listening now she will be. She will be a sponge soaking up my words, my decisions, my every move. With that said I'm vowing today to live a life that will inspire my daughter, so that she, in turn will inspire the world. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div>~Jennifer Patnode</div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-47492609907722200152011-08-29T05:00:00.000-07:002011-08-29T05:00:04.211-07:00Trust God….Why do I always doubt, worry and panic when situations don’t go the way I planned? Why do I put myself down and doubt my decisions? Why do I always look to other people for answers and reassurance instead of God? Why do I fear that God won’t take care of me and my family? <br />
I quit my full-time job as the cook at Gateway Academy. I had an opportunity to work with my dad three days a week. That was a hard decision for me to make. My dad and I have not had the best relationship. There were many factors putting a strain on our relationship over the years …step-mom, step-sister, drama, hurt… and holding on to anger and unforgiveness especially. But since I have been praying for God to mend our relationship for 4 ½ years, I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to be with my dad. It was a leap of faith. I felt like it was RIGHT, like God was answering my prayers. I gave my notice to my boss on July 7th. Then on Sunday July 10th, guest pastor Derek Turner spoke at Mosaic. He gave his powerful testimony which impacted me. Philippians 3:13 says “ No, dear brothers and sisters I have not achieved it, but I focus on this ONE THING: forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.” GOD MEANT FOR ME TO HEAR THIS!! I cried hard during that service, thanking God the whole time for giving me this scripture and giving me my dad. …forget the past…look forward to what lies ahead…perfect timing, 3 days after I made the decision to work with my dad!<br />
Unfortunately, the 3 day job has not worked out yet. 22 days later and I am still waiting. I’ve worked a few days but not enough. So here comes my doubts and panic! I need income! I need to work! I thought this was the right thing to do! So then I watch a Joyce Meyer sermon and she said… to STOP DOUBTING YOUR DOUBT! Aww thanks Joyce! See, God keeps reassuring me that I will be ok by giving me scripture…actually…smacking me in the face with the scripture He wants me to hear. <br />
Things keep working out…over and over again. During all my worrying about money, I got a surprise refund check in the mail last week. That money will more than pay for the work I’ve missed this month, and maybe even cover me until the end of September! <br />
Another Gateway Academy needs my help this week because they don’t have a cook. I can cook lunch and maybe help train the new cook they hire. It just worked out perfect because I don’t have any work with my dad. <br />
I get to help a good friend’s mom clean her house while she is going through chemo. She wants me to do it. She trusts me. ….and I get to spend time with her! I am very happy about that. <br />
So the lesson I’ve learned in the past month is….we just have to TRUST GOD. Stop doubting. Stop worrying. Stop panicing. Stop looking for reassurance from other people - go to God. I believe GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF ME AND MY FAMILY!!! <br />
~ Brianna McCarthy Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-71852150977909466122011-08-26T05:37:00.000-07:002011-08-26T05:37:30.302-07:00What I want to be when I grow up<br />
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">You wanna know a not-so-well-kept secret? I'm turning 30 tomorrow. General consensus is that thirty is a big deal. Personally, the number doesn't bother me at all. In fact, I can't understand people who get their britches all in a wad over getting older. In my opinion, getting older is far superior to the alternative. However, I will say that I don't </span></span><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">feel</span></span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> thirty. Admittedly, I don't know what thirty is supposed to feel like. But I can say this for certain, my life is not what I imagined it would be like when I was a little girl daydreaming of being 'all grown up.' Or more accurately, I suppose, I am not the person I thought I would be at thirty.</span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">So, what did I picture... In a nutshell: Independently wealthy (of course!), living in a big white house with a huge wrap-around porch on a large farm where I'd grow my own fruits and vegetables and raise cows, chickens, pigs and a house full of kids. I'd spend my days Martha Stewart-ing it up in a perfectly pressed, never messy, ruffled apron. I'd make all of our food from scratch, hand-sew my childrens' clothing, and no scrapbook, photo album or other memento would be left undone. There would be plenty of time for running and playing with my kids all afternoon and then rocking them to sleep at night because, in this fairy tale life, a maid takes care of the dishes, laundry and house cleaning. And on the weekends, my husband and I would go jet-setting to exotic, far off locations - kids in-tow.</span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">As it turns out though, I am not Superwoman and Mother Earth incarnate rolled into one. In reality, my days are spent trying to keep mounds of dirty laundry from overtaking my house and devouring my children. I do dishes one-handed with my baby daughter on my hip, ripping out chunks of my hair and trying to take my ear off my head by force, while my 2 1/2 year old son literally crawls </span></span><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">in to</span></span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> the dishwasher. In the midst of cooking and cleaning and caring for kids, I desperately try to squeeze in playdates to keep the kids from being socially stunted, learning activities to expand their little brains, and arts and crafts so they're well-rounded. This is all done on too little sleep and too much caffeine. In the evening, as soon as my husband gets home from work, I race out the door to go to work myself, exchanging getting to put the kids to bed at night for being home with them during the day and not having to put them in daycare. As for 'jet-setting,' our last trip was to Vermont to visit my husband's family. My husband and I bravely traversed the airport with our small children - him with bags and carseats strapped to his back as I tried to navigate the crowds with a cumbersome double stroller brimming over with diaper bags, stuffies and babies, leaving a trail of Cheerios in my wake.</span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">I am not the person I imagined I would be all those years ago while daydreaming about "When I grow up..." Its easy for me to look at my life and myself and point out all of my shortfalls. But, when I look at my kids I try to see myself the way they see me. Their little smiles show that they love me unconditionally. In their eyes I may as well have hung the moon and stars. My son doesn't care that I didn't make him blueberry muffins from scratch for breakfast or that we're having peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch for the third time in one week. All he wants is for me to sit on the floor and play blocks with him or chase him around acting like the Tickle Monster. And my daughter doesn't care that she's wearing hand-me-downs rather than a dress hand-sewn by me. She just wants me to hold her, and hug her, and give her kisses.</span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">While I was writing this I saw a quote (I stopped for a Pinterest break!) that said "People are just as happy as they make up their minds to be." Absolute truth! And I have every reason in the world to be happy... A good husband, happy and healthy children, a roof over my head and food on the table. As for all that other stuff, in the words of Tim McGraw, maybe in my next thirty years.</span></span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #888888;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e;">Bree Eastman, 30 (almost), wife, mother, amateur writer, aspiring entrepreneur, and domestic goddess at heart</span></span></div></span></span>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-29110588848400520512011-08-24T03:30:00.000-07:002011-08-24T03:30:36.424-07:00The Unknown<span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">The "unknown" is many things...hopeful, scary, exhilarating, empowering, daunting, etc. </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">As an entrepreneur, nothing inspires and excites me more than being around others that have the drive and faith to make things happen in their life. </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I strongly believe in the bible verse "I can do all things through Christ, which strengthen me." Philippians 4:13.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">With this at the forefront of my actions it allows me the courage to dream big, think big and do big.</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Not everything has been a success or will be a success, but it starts with that infinite possibility of what can be. </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Live on the hopeful and exhilarating side of the "unknown"! It makes your accomplishments that much worthwhile. </span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">~ Carla Eustache</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Carla is the owner of </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Style Perfect Weddings and Events</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.styleperfectevents.com/">http://www.styleperfectevents.com/</a></span></span></span></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-48556927239343478162011-08-17T06:15:00.000-07:002011-08-26T06:17:21.436-07:00It's that time again...<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">It’s the middle of August and we all know what that means. Whether you have kids or not, the signs are everywhere.</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RB6g-DokUERQDLZM7z_MloADn7Q4FdBBJOml1eBlN_Kakor5ke9OqWtq9CqOd5C4x4AaUSc1NFr5pKhz87jCkvDzdAQ8f34NdeW5QGYacKzzpVxJk8AK6-nndE0onGmiLLgqg_vKd_U/s1600/backtoschool.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RB6g-DokUERQDLZM7z_MloADn7Q4FdBBJOml1eBlN_Kakor5ke9OqWtq9CqOd5C4x4AaUSc1NFr5pKhz87jCkvDzdAQ8f34NdeW5QGYacKzzpVxJk8AK6-nndE0onGmiLLgqg_vKd_U/s320/backtoschool.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">As a teacher, I’m relishing in these last few days of freedom, filling my time with sleeping in, my pajamas and doing anything I think of, just because I can. Yet, while I lay on the couch with my coffee, watching the Kardashian marathon that I’ve already seen twice, the Back-to-School commercials do draw me in. Target has the market cornered this year with the PE teacher who requires a jump drive for physical activity, the music teacher in love with his {likely stonewashed} denim and the second grade teacher who can’t wait to introduce her new friends, the fractions. She’s my personal favorite although I can’t believe I wasn’t cast for the job. {So much glitter!}</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Going back to school gets me as excited as the children. I love setting up my classroom and making changes to last year’s floor plan, optimizing space and getting more and more organized. I’ve already spent multiple six-hour days standing in the middle of my classroom, anticipating what’s to come as I set up new learning areas and bring in new activities that I’ve worked on all summer. It’s really all about optimizing what I have so when I meet my new little ones in a few days, I’ll be ready to give all that they need. The potential of a new year and a new start overwhelms me with emotion as I’m thrilled for them to come while also nervous of making the same mistakes or not seeing these little people for who they truly are.</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Then it hit me as if God himself had scrawled it on the board in bright red Crayola.</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">This is what He wants for me every day.</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">This is what He wants for </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">us</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> every day. Each day is a new beginning where we can forget yesterday’s mistakes and misspoken words, stop dwelling on the failures we blame ourselves for and move forward, head held high with the anticipation of what’s to come. Going back to school already fills me with hope and a sense of invincibility that I can do anything, teach anything and love these precious lives into the beginnings of great people. Allowing myself to feel the same fresh start with each new morning takes a mind adjustment but once you’re able to see yourself through God’s loving eyes of forgiveness each and every day…man, is it freeing.</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">With that, I’m off to the classroom to soak in my space and see if I can’t make some of that newness stick around longer with pink glitter glue. Then again, it is only 9:30 so I suppose I could work on my blog and scour Pinterest for things to imitate. But after </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">that</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> I’ll go. I can DVR the Kardashians anyway.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">~ Kristin Young</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Kindergarten teacher at Mountain Island Elementary</span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-15962252859674077862011-08-15T07:04:00.000-07:002011-08-26T06:18:51.281-07:00Birds, Birds, Birds<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">6:45 am - My peaceful sleep crashes into the reality of life as the alarm clock goes off and instantly I begin going through the day in my mind…</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“What will I make for lunch today?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“Did we pay the water bill yesterday?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“What am I going to wear?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“What time is the meeting with the sales rep tomorrow?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“What am I going to write for this blog post?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“Why… What…..When……..How…?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Then I hear those little creatures outside my bedroom window chirping away not a care in the world. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIj9SAXMH8OOnLU0TrV3nGbxuCYnhJDLNZyjDSUyxkRa7r_Nch5fQitOHk1nBfmxPzT6mjdbKBxO07TC3VaAtlMu7T1KdoZkPdZJmuhGgaQo4HL4iVebJUSWxnjIeLI2fNp4HLnwZmwIA/s1600/bird1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIj9SAXMH8OOnLU0TrV3nGbxuCYnhJDLNZyjDSUyxkRa7r_Nch5fQitOHk1nBfmxPzT6mjdbKBxO07TC3VaAtlMu7T1KdoZkPdZJmuhGgaQo4HL4iVebJUSWxnjIeLI2fNp4HLnwZmwIA/s320/bird1.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">I love birds always have and probably always will. Fat ones tiny ones, blue and brown ones, I love them all! Our house (and yard) is littered with bird houses and figurines. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">I love to watch them hop, play and cheep at each other. I know that birds have become a current fad, but for me they remind me of how vast God’s love is for us.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">“Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.” Matthew 6:26 (The Message)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">We all face many obstacles every day and “Casting our cares upon Him” can be challenging as we fight for control. But doesn’t it feel amazing when you are “carefree in the care of God?” Things don’t seem quite as difficult when our focus is on Him. Can you imagine if all those little birds were worrying about where their next meal was coming from or how they were going to make rent on their birdhouse? But they don’t have to and neither do we. We have the freedom to let God take care of us. “…but your heavenly father knows all that you need.” (Matthew 6:32 NLT)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">So the next time you admire a feathered friend at your birdfeeder remember how incredibly loved you are and let go of the worries of this life. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Let’s fly away!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">~Jennifer Cashel</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2A-FETci6EcOCxxBgoHE9TxKldbjf9K8s1gWKsul_y-LJv6eAGloc3jf5wH213bbFpuLpfrTStMh5dgKAn5OD59d9JZlUcQzw_TkDVhlvkyDFyC5VLC8aYB7uGS2g7PUfWljwwMd-R8/s1600/bird2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2A-FETci6EcOCxxBgoHE9TxKldbjf9K8s1gWKsul_y-LJv6eAGloc3jf5wH213bbFpuLpfrTStMh5dgKAn5OD59d9JZlUcQzw_TkDVhlvkyDFyC5VLC8aYB7uGS2g7PUfWljwwMd-R8/s1600/bird2.png" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-48971093092373377612011-08-12T08:09:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:54:02.672-07:00What inspired us this week.There are so many talented people involved in this next post... I just love it!!<br />
<br />
Back in February I was having coffee with <a href="http://www.critseyrowe.com/">Critsey Rowe</a> and she mentioned <a href="http://www.cecinewyork.com/">Ceci New York</a>, a design studio in Manhattan. Ceci's work is beyond incredible, unique, and simply stunning! They publish a weekly online magazine called Ceci Style.<br />
You can subscribe for free <a href="http://www.cecinewyork.com/cecistyle/subscribe/">HERE</a>!<br />
<br />
Well a couple of my favorite Charlotte vendors were featured in Ceci Style this week!<br />
<a href="http://www.cecinewyork.com/cecistyle/2011/08/09/v54-expert-style-tips-vivre-palm-table-setting-by-ivy-robinson-weddings-and-events/">Click here for the full feature</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ivyrobinson.com/">Ivy Robinson</a> styled this breathtaking beach table scape.<br />
<a href="http://lucyparkerphotography.com/">Lucy Parker Photography</a> took these gorgeous images.<br />
<br />
I still can not get over how much I love this color palette.<br />
Blue skies, tan beaches, mahogany table, in contrast with the bright pink<br />
and lime green.... L.O.V.E.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG9xyTikD6j0pV0hUJu49dQte8qs2Zfk4746phSHrauY5xyixGzMFroYxC9Ow28-f32-8YiG-qW8QFHWgQgqi5GEDUyo6KpZlB3d2oxfAjdd2t-DEj-CgvvmclgFbev8l2zz9Fm0_hhw/s1600/ceci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG9xyTikD6j0pV0hUJu49dQte8qs2Zfk4746phSHrauY5xyixGzMFroYxC9Ow28-f32-8YiG-qW8QFHWgQgqi5GEDUyo6KpZlB3d2oxfAjdd2t-DEj-CgvvmclgFbev8l2zz9Fm0_hhw/s400/ceci.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy Parker Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4faMCgU4JKTbDKO0280cSLB5Ym7Ycy8qyO2QwB2EUUXyAEK_gP7jkPJ0PIxdvZz0VFa6ls9ZGCwL9cOv1P4wPHilli41dw8d6q4_ZfTDNGsz2y-r4LhfHgMqXihKa-aBszDffmVvSQY/s1600/Ceci1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4faMCgU4JKTbDKO0280cSLB5Ym7Ycy8qyO2QwB2EUUXyAEK_gP7jkPJ0PIxdvZz0VFa6ls9ZGCwL9cOv1P4wPHilli41dw8d6q4_ZfTDNGsz2y-r4LhfHgMqXihKa-aBszDffmVvSQY/s400/Ceci1.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">www.lucyparkerblog.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x32N98NBkqzxetDL9JJs7p9yTH6PeyAM0rHDYjXhCG-iph8-6YKRa0oWCyUtdrSYRYrWRHMv8BcPU-UW07X2DXJwqQ2WE8AD65pvmNBBXtt6ayE5Jbbzs22hqpvOO32mk1uVPWWWFeI/s1600/Ceci2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x32N98NBkqzxetDL9JJs7p9yTH6PeyAM0rHDYjXhCG-iph8-6YKRa0oWCyUtdrSYRYrWRHMv8BcPU-UW07X2DXJwqQ2WE8AD65pvmNBBXtt6ayE5Jbbzs22hqpvOO32mk1uVPWWWFeI/s400/Ceci2.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">www.lucyparkerblog.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-56209634807700935162011-08-10T07:07:00.000-07:002011-08-10T07:07:15.884-07:00My Dirty Thirty List<br />
So a year ago, I was turning 30 and for a lot of people that is an age of crossing over into full adulthood. Many people feel the need to have accomplished something by this age, whether it be getting married, having babies, buying a house, finally finding their life-long career, etc. Even though I had not accomplished any of these things, I was okay with it. But I did want to shake up things in my routine life and decided I needed to do something big to celebrate. I always hear people saying things that they want to do one day like go sky diving, but they hardly ever do it. Then the idea popped into my brain: What better way to feel fully alive than to create a bucket list of 30 things and, here’s the kicker, only give myself one year to accomplish the whole list?<br />
<br />
Using the list as an incentive made me do many things that I had been putting off and helped me discover new talents and hobbies. For instance, I now call myself a knitter, I donate blood, and I mentor a child. Lack of funds also made me more creative which led to ideas such as drinking peanuts in coca- cola, being blond for a day, or sending a message in a bottle. And now that I am 31, I find myself still adding to the list. Just last month I took a martial arts class, attended a lock and key dating party, and attempted to sell my crafts at the NODA art crawl. Once you turn your brain on to pay attention to all the possibilities around you, it is hard to turn it off. The next time someone suggests a new experience, instead of immediately thinking of all the excuses and obstacles, say with a shrug, “Well, why not?” I’d venture to say that you’ll be pleasantly surprised where this attitude will lead you.<br />
<br />
I encourage everyone to try their own list and you’ll be amazed how much fun you have. Life is full of so many adventures and opportunities, that it is just a matter getting motivated! Give yourself something new to look forward to each month, each week, or even each day. What are some of your ideas for your list?<br />
<br />
Side note: If you are looking for inspiration in finding joy in the simple things of life, check out this colorful and creative blog that I came across…<br />
<a href="http://colormekatie.blogspot.com/2011_07_01_archive.html">http://colormekatie.blogspot.com/2011_07_01_archive.html</a><br />
<br />
~ Julie Glaser<br />
Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-39078816122376438642011-08-08T13:02:00.000-07:002011-08-08T13:02:29.885-07:00Charlotte Bridal ShowcaseThank you <a href="http://www.carolinaweddingsandevents.com/">Carolina Weddings & Events</a> for another AMAZING <a href="http://www.thebridalshowcasenc.com/">Bridal Showcase</a>!!! <div><div>This was the first show we've done since the launch of <a href="http://howdoyouinspire.com/">Inspire</a>.</div><div>It was so much fun to create a booth design that reflected our new look!</div></div><div><br />
</div><div><div>We enjoyed seeing some of our favorite wedding vendors at the show:</div><div><a href="http://weddingrowcharlotte.com/">Wedding Row Charlotte</a></div><div><a href="http://www.critseyrowe.com/">Critsey Rowe Photography</a></div><div><a href="http://www.lilygreenthumbs.com/">Lily Greenthumb's</a></div><div><a href="http://www.harwickhouse.com/">Harwick House Events Group</a></div><div><a href="http://www.dpersonettphotography.com/">Dianne Personett Photography</a></div><div><a href="http://www.authenticexposure.com/">Authentic Exposure</a></div><div>Thank you for the white linens <a href="http://www.connieduglinlinen.com/">Connie Duglin</a>!</div><div><div><br />
</div><div>Below are a few photos from the show. What do you think!?</div><div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzdxyH9WgzEl2Hrv9ljug75gQeW4O75mD8rnbI28l24ybyFlX2NcWUdLmg6WmcBehb6gURP1nGpiffOYgR1rxqzPqsF6e9qAK8hQ4WEJT81FpZNKSsugUZvY6Ia7khHUAULDV8K0VJnuA/s1600/August_Show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzdxyH9WgzEl2Hrv9ljug75gQeW4O75mD8rnbI28l24ybyFlX2NcWUdLmg6WmcBehb6gURP1nGpiffOYgR1rxqzPqsF6e9qAK8hQ4WEJT81FpZNKSsugUZvY6Ia7khHUAULDV8K0VJnuA/s400/August_Show.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfrcmwHDRMQV1iCJNpYj3llB0sI9zVvr3YN1KaaOVV1AJYZY8MPq4Z71JuF1C2CasZfn4Q0B4V_A3CXrzAYv3EMUWy3jryZyF6ZiHux4X9kUXoNG1tYkNakXlZbY6DuotyebLuTTwZZM/s1600/August_Show2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfrcmwHDRMQV1iCJNpYj3llB0sI9zVvr3YN1KaaOVV1AJYZY8MPq4Z71JuF1C2CasZfn4Q0B4V_A3CXrzAYv3EMUWy3jryZyF6ZiHux4X9kUXoNG1tYkNakXlZbY6DuotyebLuTTwZZM/s400/August_Show2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div></div></div></div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3591198343986566697.post-47005170895557226622011-08-05T07:19:00.000-07:002011-08-05T07:19:12.678-07:00What Inspired Us This Week<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I have to tell you about my new obsession.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e;">Pinterest.</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e;">com</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Have you heard about this amazing website? If not, you must check it out.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></div><h2 style="clear: both; line-height: 38px; margin-bottom: 18px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">So what is Pinterest? It is a Virtual Pinboard.</span></span></span></span></h2><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">(Here is the website description)</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: 300; line-height: 24px;">Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">This website is wonderful, you must go to it right now, but I warn you... it is highly addictive. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Here are a few boards and pins: </span></span></span></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPeUXucXSQwaSU183zELnNevtnmul8A8XRXgD-ha6XneDkJzzM6KyVyP7SeA-qUiv5O05GicqEqlcfUmFIcp1d99d2gkbUHe9yYaPYk9aIyW1zV4j-FYaAEpG_ANKclnBU9DNPZC8bTRo/s1600/Pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPeUXucXSQwaSU183zELnNevtnmul8A8XRXgD-ha6XneDkJzzM6KyVyP7SeA-qUiv5O05GicqEqlcfUmFIcp1d99d2gkbUHe9yYaPYk9aIyW1zV4j-FYaAEpG_ANKclnBU9DNPZC8bTRo/s400/Pinterest.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RSFkefmugYsivMfgaraoob1D266PoFpTgwR8uged13K4rt77H8-XL6SDcHRNyybdT8Yfb-ZibrP2culTBm8U4TnsH_tTx0If4jc_BTjE8zkQkw1RDn535esUV6Bwop8VP9gtFJs0ZIY/s1600/Pinterest2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RSFkefmugYsivMfgaraoob1D266PoFpTgwR8uged13K4rt77H8-XL6SDcHRNyybdT8Yfb-ZibrP2culTBm8U4TnsH_tTx0If4jc_BTjE8zkQkw1RDn535esUV6Bwop8VP9gtFJs0ZIY/s400/Pinterest2.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>Owner : Stephanie Huxterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08271790365183014268noreply@blogger.com0