I Believe - Author Unknown

I Believe...
That just because two people argue, that doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, that doesn't mean they do love each other.

I Believe...
That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I Believe...
That we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.

I Believe...
That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I Believe...
That t rue friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.

I Believe...
That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.

I Believe...
That it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.

I Believe...
That you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe...
That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

I Believe...
That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I Believe...
That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I Believe...
That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I Believe...
That money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I Believe...
That my best friend and I can do anything, or nothing, and have the best time.

I Believe...
That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down will be the ones to help you get back up.

I Believe...
That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had, and what you've learned from them.....and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.

I Believe...
That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I Believe...
That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief.

I Believe...
That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.

I Believe...
That you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life Forever

I Believe...
Two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.

I Believe...
That your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you

I Believe...
That even when you think you have no more to give, if a friend cries out to you........you will find the strength to help.

I Believe...
That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.

I Believe...
That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.

I Believe...
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything.

Thank you God for all the wonderful people who help us throughout the journey of life!

Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

Are you wearing the right size bra? Ladies you would be absolutely amazed at what wearing the correct bra size can do to your appearance!! And when you look great on the outside you feel awesome on the inside!

So, are you confused about the what and the how when it comes to a bra fitting? Well here's the perfect bra fit checklist courtesy of HerRoom.com, a lingerie website.

Although it's sometimes immediately obvious that a bra you're trying on doesn't fit right, there are less obvious signs that a bra is doing absolutely nothing for your shape, or worse, is doing lots of things wrong. Even a bra that 'feels right' initially may not be giving you proper support or enhancing your shape.

Familiarity with our Perfect Fit checklist will help you choose bras that flatter and support. Take a few minutes to understand what a perfect fitting bra should look and feel like, and to recognize whether your bra is the wrong size for you.

Smooth fitting cups.
If you don't fill out the cups, you need a smaller size. If you are "overflowing" the cups, try a larger cup size or a style with a fuller cup design. The edges of the cups should also lie flat against your breast. If there is a gap (especially with padded bras), you should go down a cup size.

Center panel lays flat against your breastbone.
If it does not, this could be a sign that your cup size is too small, or the panel is not large enough to accommodate the separation between your breasts. Note: Minimizers tend to not rest against the breastbone, and this is fine.

The bottom of the bra in the front and back is parallel to the floor or slightly lower in the back. The lower edge of the band should anchor below the shoulder blades. The lower the back fits, the better the support.

Straps stay put and don't dig into your shoulders.
Consider a different bra style with straps closer together if straps keep falling. A smaller band size should reduce the strap's strain on your shoulders.

Cup fabric should be stable.
The fabric should give support as well as a good breast shape.

An underwire should encircle your breast.
It shouldn't poke, protrude or pinch.

Good breast uplift.
The apex of your breasts should be mid-way between your shoulders and your elbows. Uplifted breasts look more youthful and give a slimming appearance.

Breasts face the front and do not sag or fall to the sides.
This breast position allows you to freely swing your arms.

A finger can be run under the front band.
Your bra should be snug, but not too tight. If it's tight, you need a larger band size or a looser hook placement.

If you would like to read the full article please click here: The Perfect Bra Fitting Checklist

Pumps, Purses & Positivity,

Real Life, Real talk, Real Women

Best in ME!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgwt-UhPhhs

As you enter into your weekend, also remember to focus on the best in Yourself! Please click the link above for a little Friday inspiration.

Love,
Clutch

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women.

REGRETS

Don't waste time regretting the past.

Learn the lesson and look forward to the future!

Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Friendship

Keep smiling, keep shining..knowing you can always depend on me for sure….that’s what friends are for…in good times and bad times I’ll be always around forever more…that’s what friends are for….Dionne Warrick and friends

When you think of friends, who do you think of and Why? I know the question is three fold but do you ever wonder why the people you call friends are your friends. Lately, I’ve asked myself these questions.

Thank you for being a friend….travel down the road and back again…and if threw a party invited everyone you know you see the biggest gift would be from me and the card attached would say Thank for being a friend….Golden Girls theme song

My best girl friend and I have been friends now for 10 years…and we were thrown together by the work place. She lives in Georgia and before we met I had other good/best friends. I find myself wondering where things would be without her. Of course I have my mother…sister…and a slew of good friends, but she is the one that helps me check myself.

Your best girlfriend you tell everything…right? Your pains, celebrations…..daily routine…and when you see her even if it’s been awhile you pick up where you left off. What if your good girlfriend thought you were unhappy, because she saw the picture differently…and she expressed her concern! Best friends know and are only looking out for your good and you love one another because you respect their opinion! Friends can be millions of miles away and can cry tears of joy about your good news! My God this woman really must care for me…and me for her. When you want to be a part of their lives no matter good or bad, and even if her opinion doesn’t line up with the way you had things figured out you still consider the information. Now that’s a friend, when you are free to express your love, concern and hopes for their/your future with only YOUR best interest at heart regardless, if the words don’t lay easily on the ears/heart.

Friendship means…to love and help even when it means…saying what’s heavy on your heart!

Ms. Chocolate Wedge
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Kitten Heels Recommends....

Here’s another excellent book discovery! The title is Fearless: Imagine Your Life Without Fear by Max Lucado. Max Lucado is a best-selling Christian author and minister of writing and preaching. He has written more than 50 books with 28 million copies in print and 65 million sold. This book caught my eye for obvious reasons. Who wants to live in fear? Many people do, but I doubt that they desire to live that way. When I saw the book, I thought, great just what I need. With all that is going on in this world, we all need the words of wisdom and encouragement found in this book. I read where the author indicated that he began this book 2 years before it was published not knowing the things that we would be facing. Nearly every fear scenario that you can think of is covered. Here is the synopsis:

Each sunrise seems to bring fresh reasons for fear.

They're talking layoffs at work, slowdowns in the economy, flare-ups in the Middle East, turnovers at headquarters, downturns in the housing market, upswings in global warming. The plague of our day, terrorism, begins with the word terror. Fear, it seems, has taken up a hundred-year lease on the building next door and set up shop. Oversized and rude, fear herds us into a prison and slams the doors. Wouldn't it be great to walk out?

Imagine your life, wholly untouched by angst. What if faith, not fear, was your default reaction to threats? If you could hover a fear magnet over your heart and extract every last shaving of dread, insecurity, and doubt, what would remain? Envision a day, just one day, when you could trust more and fear less. Can you imagine your life without fear?


You can either read the entire book, or skip right to the chapter applicable to your life situation. A few of the chapters are Woe, Be Gone – Fear of Running Out, My Child Is in Danger – Fear of Not Protecting My Kids, This Brutal Planet – Fear of Violence, Shadow of a Doubt – Fear That God Is Not Real, and What If Things Get Worse – Fear of Global Calamity, and others. The book also includes a moving first chapter, Why Are We Afraid?

I love that the book includes Jesus' statements about fear. The author gives the antidote to the fear epidemic. He says that if we trust God more, we can fear less. Words to live by!

Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Light at the end of the tunnel

If you are like me, you have started to notice that it is getting lighter when we go to work and when we come home. These small changes may not seem much to many, but to me, it is getting closer to Spring and eventually Summer. Closer to sundresses, sandals and “frou-frou”. See, I am all about the girl, pink and especially YELLOW!

Unfortunately, I do not like anything about winter, except that my daughter was born in January. How that happened, I will never know. As my moniker suggests, I love Sandals. Anything about having my toes free and feeling sunshine, works for me. Although, I religiously get my pedicures in the winter time, there is nothing like a bright coral color on my toes to make me deliriously happy or sunshine on bare shoulders in that just made for you sundress.

So every day as we move further from winter and closer to Spring, I start to smile more each day and relish the thought of my toes being free and having my favorite sundress come out of storage. If you have a favorite summertime fingernail polish or know where to get a cute strappy sundress, please share. I am ready to help usher Spring and Summer, in.

Peace and Love,

Sandals,

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Getting to know your Inner Self

So this journey that I’m on is a life journey; yes learning to love yourself is actually a life journey. It’s not a New Year’s Resolution that you start and then by mid February you just forget all about it.

This journey takes time and it isn’t always easy because as I’ve mentioned in previous blogs when you start to dig down below the surface and get to know the real you, your Inner Self, it’s not always pretty. But learning and getting to know your inner self is extremely important! How else are you going to become the person that God has intended you to be?

Sometimes you may not even know where to begin because we hide behind so many layers. Other times the layers are so thick that we no longer remember when real has transitioned over to fantasy and when fantasy has transitioned over to falsehood.

I don’t believe that we purposely try to cause any hurt or harm to ourselves or anyone else, but hiding is one of the mechanisms we tend to use to protect ourselves. We feel hurt, insecure, and unsure so we retreat deep into the layers for protection. Not realizing that the deeper we go the harder it becomes to be true to ourselves, to love ourselves, to even nurture ourselves.

I was reading an article the other day, Nurturing the Inner Self, by Deb Dorchak that talked about so many things that hit home for me. Below is just a small portion from the article but I encourage you to click on the title and check out the entire piece.

********************************************************************
Having a negative outlook seems to be the easier choice for some people because it is much easier to complain and give up than to be optimistic and persist against all odds. Perhaps you will feel an immediate release of pressure, but because you have not handled the situation appropriately, it will most likely haunt you. Choosing the positive route is more difficult, but the rewards usually present themselves in life changing, long term results.

When trying to nurture your inner self, it is important to be aware of the types of people you keep in your inner circle. Take a good look at your friends and family; are any of them chronic naysayers? Are they always putting you down? Alternatively, do they support you and try to build your self-esteem?

Once you are aware of negativity, you will find that being around negative people can be draining. Whether you realize it or not, you are constantly on the defense in this crowd trying to protect yourself. Perhaps you have learned to deal with your mother’s criticizing words or your friend’s constant negativity towards others, but your inner self is cringing and feeling hopeless in their company.
************************************************************************
Getting to know your Inner Self and then being true to your inner self is just another part of the journey that we are all on…….together!

Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

The following is an email that was forwarded to me. I'm sure we have all seen it, but it's worth seeing over and over just to remind us that we are special!!

A Poem About Our Girlfriends
Someone will always be prettier.
Someone will always be smarter.
Some of their houses will be bigger.
Some will drive a better car.
Their children will do better in school.
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go, and love you and your circumstances.
Think about it!
The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart.
The most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children.
The richest woman you know, she's got the car, the house, the clothes but she might be lonely.
And the Word says, 'If I have not Love, I am nothing.' So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say,
'I am too Blessed to be Stressed and too Anointed to be Disappointed!'

Make it a great day!!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity,

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Old School Remedies

How many of you have parents, or grandparents, that have a cure for everything from colds to cancer? I’m sure none of these cures involve a doctor, a pharmacy or an insurance company. Most of the cures can be formulated using basic household items found in your kitchen or bathroom.

I mentioned to an older neighbor that I had been having issues with Acid Reflux. She looked me square in the face and said that Acid Reflux is a fancy name for gas and to take a tablespoon of yellow mustard it will be gone. Well, out of desperation I tried it. Low and behold, it worked!

So please, share some of those old school remedies with our community. You never know who you may be helping. I prefer those old school remedies over prescription drugs, less side effects!

Happy Healing,

Clutch

Real Talk. Real Life. Real Women.

DREAMS

When you can't visualize your dreams and aspirations, take stock and be certain that they are yours and not someone else.



Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

One Day

One Day ……

Who remembers saying this statement to themselves?
One day I will ….…, then that will be followed by……
Did you get the opportunity to ever reach that dream, for that One day…?
Did that One day ever arrive, or exist? At what age does that One day cease to exist?
Are you still waiting on that, One day?
Guess what?
We have to make that One day exist if we want it; it took me years to figure out my One day.
It does not pronounce itself, or is given to you,
You've got to make your One day scenario happen.
The end result, no matter how long it takes you, is that you will appreciate it and enjoy it like I did.
So with out no delay, go for that One day


Exotic Chocolate, Sling Back

Real Life , Real Talk, Real Women

Hobo’s Question of the Day

Valentine’s Day has come and gone and as much as I like to say that I don’t care about having a date for the big day. Every year, each day building up to Valentine’s Day I secretly think about all the romantic and nice events that are advertised to remind me that I will be doing movie night by myself. Then just the other day I was “complaining” about this with a friend of mine and she sent this message to me that I haven’t met the right one yet and I would know he is the right one when:

1) I first make the decision for a mate on a spiritual and intellectual level, before it's made on an emotional one.

2) Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life"
(Proverbs 4:23).

3) Whenever you meet a man, you need to get clearance from
God, check out his attributes, and then allow your heart to engage.

4) Check out the fabric. Is the person mate material?

5) You have like interests, like goals in life, like opinions on basic life issues.

So, Hobo’s question is..... are there really guidelines or “rules” to follow when one is searching for one to date or potentially marry? Or is dating and marriage just the result of random acts of chances by two people?

Looking for answers,

Hobo
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women

SUNNY DAYS

With most of the East Coast under inches of snow, it dawned on me recently that spring is only months away. Now that I am thinking of spring, summer starts to creep into my mind. Can’t wait for the warm days of summer!

Now that I have begun to think of summer, I want to start making all the fun plans for the season. The event that I enjoy in my state is the Ravinia Festival. This is an outdoor venue where concert are held from country to jazz every year with big names from everywhere. It is the best thing since sliced bread. This venue allows you to bring in your own food and beverages and enjoy an evening of music with a hint of elegance.

Since I enjoy the music ones the most, here are some fun festivals that go on in cities throughout the United States…I am going to provide a few in some of the larger more familiar cities.

Atlanta Jazz Festival
Memorial Day Weekend Atlanta, Georgia

Macy Music Festival
July 30th and July 31st Cincinnati, Ohio

African World Festival August
TBD Detroit, Michigan

Jazz in the Gardens
March 20th and March 21st Miami, Florida

DC Jazz Festival
June 1st thru June 13th Washington, DC

Lollapalooza
August 6th thru August 8th Chicago, Illinois

Summerfest
June 24th thru July 4th Milwaukee, Wisconsin

These should start the summer off with a bang and I am sure there are hundreds more that people would fine worthy of attending. Let me know more in your areas that you think people should hear about.

Much Love

Chanel

Real Life Real Talk Real Women

Happy Valentine's Day!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!!



Remember to love yourself first and enjoy the day!!



Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

Credit card rules and regulations will be changing on February 22nd so this week's tip is courtesy of Yahoo Finance.

5 Moves to Make Ahead of the New Credit Card Law
by Connie Prater

With new regulations starting in less than a month, you may need to take stock of your credit card portfolio to determine which cards' terms are changing to your benefit and which feature changes that can hit you in the wallet.

The most important thing to do, says Lauren Bowne, staff attorney at San Francisco-based Consumers Union, is be aware of your card terms. So much has changed in recent months that consumers need to pay attention to what is and isn't featured in the credit card.

"Even if you're the person who pays off your balance and doesn't even have any credit card debt," says Bowne. "You might get a notice that says you're getting a $100 annual fee. Even people with stellar credit and stellar credit payment histories need to pay attention."

Here are five smart credit card moves to make before Feb. 22:

1. Consider waiting to get new credit cards until after Feb. 22 because new accounts are protected from interest rate increases for the first year. As issuers compete for new customers in the new reform law landscape, there may be good deals and offers for people with good credit.

2. For existing accounts, consider doing a balance transfer from higher interest rate cards to accounts with lower APRs. Some issuers are offering good customers balance transfers of at least a year. Remember that there is a cost of 3 percent or 4 percent of the amount transferred, so weigh that decision carefully. Also, take note of what the new interest rate will be AFTER the promotional period ends. If it's higher than the rate on the old card or only a few points lower, it may not be worth it to switch.

3. Have a Plan B backup card or two. Issuers can still lower your credit limit and close your account without advance notice. Make sure you have more than one card as a backup in case this happens to you and you need a credit card for emergencies.

4. Charge a small amount on those other cards every other month and pay it off in full when the bill comes. This avoids any dormancy fee that may be assessed and may prevent the company from closing the account for inactivity. Some issuers require a minimum amount of charging to avoid inactivity fees, so check your terms.

5. Young adults' access to credit will be restricted by the new law. For college students or anyone under 21 who is responsible with credit, the best move could be to get a credit card now while you still can on your own. After Feb. 22, you will have to get an adult (over 21) co-signer and may be asked to show proof you have the ability to pay.

The last one is not such a bad idea to me!! Make sure you know and understand what may be changing with your credit cards!

To read the entire article you can click below.
Full article

Pumps, Purses & Positivity,
Real Talk, Real Life, Real Women

Inspiration

What inspires you? Inspiration can come from so many places. I am often inspired by single mothers. This may be because my mom is a single mother of five and did a heck of a job raising us, if I must say so myself. We are far from perfect but we love and support one another to no end.

I am inspired by the men and women who I see out jogging at 5:30 A.M., when I’ve barely made it out of the bed and into the car without 10 ounces of whining and hesitation.

I am inspired by my husband. He loves so unconditionally. Through attitudes, breakouts and mood swings, he’s always right here loving me!

I am inspired by the woman with enough courage to leave an unhealthy relationship and find happiness and love in herself or her children. I am inspired by small business owners for having the faith to step out and do something that they love. I am inspired by the woman who dates for love, not material or financial gain.

Although I prefer not to be on the road with them, I am inspired by the elderly who refuse to give up their driver’s license when they no longer recognize colors or shapes (i.e. traffic lights or stop signs).

I am inspired by the person that says “no” to complaining and self pity.

I am inspired by the ladies of this blog who have stuck to their desire spread positive love to all those who read. Our shining moment is on the horizon!

Be Inspired!

Clutch

Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.

This is for the sandwich lovers!

A while back I shared with you a list of the worst burgers to eat…..well now I’ve found a list of the worst sandwiches. And just like the burgers a better alternative is also listed! I'm sharing so you can be armed with all the information you need to make healthier choices!!

Below is the top 5 but if you would like to see the entire list just click on the title below.

10 Worst Sandwiches in America
By David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding

#5. Subway Meatball Marinara Footlong
1,160 calories
46 g fat (18 g saturated, 2 g trans)
3,060 mg sodium

Subway does a funny thing with their nutrition menu: They only list nutrition information for 6-inch sandwiches, and low-fat footlongs. Luckily, the math here isn't exactly difficult. Skip footlongs altogether.

Eat This Instead!
Roast Beef 6-inch
310 calories
4.5 g fat (1.5 g saturated, 0 g trans)
840 mg sodium

#4. Blimpie Special Vegetarian 12"
1,186 calories
60 g fat (19 saturated fat)
2,198 mg sodium

Just because it's vegetarian doesn't make it good for you. Yes, this sandwich might be full of vegetables, but it also boasts two foot-long pieces of bread, and a host of high-fat, high-calorie oils and dressings that weigh down this sub with more than half a day's worth of calories and nearly a full day's worth of sodium and saturated fat.

Eat This Instead!
VegiMax on Wheat 6"
499 calories
21 g fat (6 g saturated)
909 mg sodium

#3. Applebee's Grilled Cheese BLT
1,310 calories
(no other nutritional information available)

With this dish, Applebee's has taken a classic childhood comfort food and turned it into a dietary disaster. Cheese and bacon are certainly not the most healthful of sandwich stuffers, but we're looking at a case of serious portion distortion and fat overload when something as simple as a sammie contains as many calories as you'll find in four and a half servings of Kraft Mac 'n Cheese. Applebee's offers just one semi-reasonable sandwich on the entire menu. Stick with that, or choose something from the "Unbelievably Great-Tasting and Under 550 Calories" section. Otherwise, you're in a nutritional wasteland.

Eat This Instead!
Grilled Sirloin Sandwich
680 calories
(no other nutritional information available)

#2. Quizno's Large Tuna Melt
1,760 calories
25 g saturated fat
2,120 mg sodium

This tuna melt used to reign supreme with the disgraceful distinction of being the worst sandwich in America. But then Quizno's took note and reduced the calories by about 300. Unfortunately, that reduction in calories only dropped this dangerous melt to second place. Why is this melt so atrocious? While tuna is usually a healthy choice on its own, it’s being held together with gobs of fatty mayo. Slim down drastically with a Bistro Steak sammie.

Eat This Instead!
Bistro Steak Melt Sammie
390 calories
11.5 g saturated fat
1,050 mg sodium

#1: The Worst Sandwich in America
Cheesecake Factory Grilled Shrimp & Bacon Club
1930 calories
24 g saturated fat
2,965 mg sodium

It's no surprise really that an item from the Cheesecake Factory would make it to the "Worst" spot on any list. Since the Factory was forced to give up their nutrition information in California, we've learned that this irresponsible chain has a menu full of items that pack in well over 1,000 calories—and in some cases, well over 2,000. Their argument is usually that the dishes are meant to be split, or saved for later. But who splits a sandwich? Do the math for them, and order a half-sandwich when eating at Cheesecake.

Eat This Instead!
One-half Turkey Sandwich
448 calories
6 g saturated fat
817 mg sodium

To your health!!
Stiletto

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Has your Never turned into Right Now?

Lately, I had to reflect on some of my moral fabric, and contemplate on the word Never. Although, I try not to use the word Never often, because of the old saying, “NEVER SAY NEVER”, there were some things I knew I just wouldn’t do….and I could say never about that. Right now you are probably thinking…there are some Never… you can say now too, Right?

I don’t want to offend, nor hurt anyone’s feelings, but I’m finding that there are some things I accept mainly because “IT” has no way of affecting me! Because there isn’t any personal connection it’s easy to say Never, until the tables turn! Now, for instance, some time ago, my niece called me to say she was interested in females, although the news caught me by surprise, I was very supportive. I like most relatives said “I love you no matter what, and I’m here for you”! I thought to myself I would Never, let some one’s sexual preference change the way I feel about them, especially if it’s a family member. Then her mom called me in an uproar, crying and asked me how could I be so supportive, I asked why isn’t she? She is still her daughter, and then after she gave me many biblical quotes, I understood, but I wasn’t wavered on my decisions until she said…”What if Brandon told you he was interested in boys/men?” Whoooa, hold your horses’ sister I don’t even want that spoken unto the universe! That’s not even a question, are you crazy? That’s when I had to reflect on the Never, of course I know I would love my son, and although it’s a choice, I would not choose that lifestyle for My son!….

I’m a divorcee, not by choice but by force, my husband refused to be monogamous, nor trustworthy, so in order not to become inmate number 567899933, I decided it was best to dissolve the marriage. During my trials and tribulations, my ex-husband had many lady friends, and the day I saw him with one, I said I would Never date a married man nor associate with a women who would. Well life has ways of making you Never, say what you wouldn’t do. Although there are always situations and circumstances that will make one waver on decisions, I ran across several both with my friends and self.

Even, television shows makes Me think about my moral fabric, and how different situations change what and how I feel about things that should be a no brainer, for the word Never.
ABC’S Private Practice, had an episode where Maya the 15 year old daughter of two affluent Doctors, is pregnant. Her parents were distraught, Naomi her mom wanted her to have an abortion although she was against this procedure. Naomi thought she would Never, advise anyone to have an abortion, and here she was relentlessly, adamantly, forcefully demanding her 15 years old daughter to have an abortion.

Now maybe you’re one of the people where the world is always black and white, and there is no grey….but here’s one. Stealing, should one steal or shouldn’t? Reports are the Haitians are looting and stealing, in Haiti. Now, I’m thinking they should do what’s necessary to survive and when the media reports that, I change the channel. That was also the case in Louisiana, now you tell me: Where do you stand on this or any of the other moral issues I’ve composed?

Remember...... Never can be Right now!?

Ms. Chocolate Wedge
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Calling All Entrepreneurs!!

Do you have a passion for a service? Is your hobby your passion? How would you like to take your passion to the next level by becoming an entrepreneur? As many unemployed adults are not able to find work in corporations, many are choosing to work for themselves. As with any important endeavor, deciding to become a business owner can be exciting, frightening, and liberating. Fortunately, there is a WEALTH of resources available to existing and those considering becoming entrepreneurs. I am fascinated with a) how much there is, b) how much of it is free, and c) how many people are unaware of it. Between the internet, libraries, university schools of business, and Small Business Administration program offices, there is a resource to fit your needs.

One great resource is a Small Business Development Center (SBDC). These centers are located in different parts of the country. I did a quick search on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) website and found seven locations to choose from within 10 miles of my home. On the DCEO website they indicate that at an SBDC you can get FREE one-on-one business counseling and management assistance, assistance with the development of business plans, help accessing marketing information, business financing programs, assistance with financial analysis and planning, and access to business education and training opportunities.

There are resources that you can use to research if you don’t know for certain what type of business you’re interested in. On the website www.entrepreneur.com/toolkit, there are Startup Kits on restaurants, pet businesses, event planning, cleaning services, e-business, information consulting, and many more. There are also books for download.

I’ve been blessed to interact with many entrepreneurs and students of entrepreneurship through volunteering with the Joseph Center and the Joseph Business School. In one of the Joseph Center seminars on how to start a business, the facilitator explains the difference between a hobby and a business. The difference is profit. If you’ve already started a business and you’re not making a profit, or you don’t have a business plan to let you know when you will begin to see a profit, unfortunately you have a hobby. Even the word of God speaks of profit. In Isaiah 48:17 it says Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. So if you are in business and need help becoming profitable or are seriously considering starting a business here are a few links to get you started with finding the help available to you!

http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/index.html

http://www.entrepreneur.com/

http://www.entrepreneur.com/toolkit

http://www.inc.com/

http://www.startupnation.com/

http://www.chicagobooth.edu/research/researchcenters.aspx

http://www.chipublib.org/cplbooksmovies/research/business.php

Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Happy Monday

What more can a football fan say, but Congratulations New Orleans!

I am a diehard Indianapolis fan, but after watching the pre-game shows and many profiles of the people of New Orleans yesterday and seeing how much this win was going to mean to them, it moved me to tears. The continued suffering, poverty and devastation that are still going on in New Orleans, post-Katrina was heartbreaking and should make the American people feel humiliated that we could not help this city and our neighbor more than we are helping Haiti.

Don’t get me wrong; what has happened in Haiti is horrific. But what happened in our own backyard was pretty horrific too and people are still suffering. My husband and I will be going back to New Orleans this summer to see how we can pledge our support for a week. Either cleaning, building, mentoring, etc.

We must never forget that there is always work to do and we can always serve others in some small way.

Have a great week!

Peace and Love,

Sandals

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Super Bowl Sunday

Well today’s the day that I look forward to all football season, but I also regret it because it means the end of football until September.

Yes I am a true football fan and although my “fav” team did not make it, New England Patriots, I am still excited for the game today. It will be a Super Bowl first for the New Orleans Saints who go up against a team that has been here before, Indianapolis Colts.

Personally I like the fairytale story of the Saints. There are still parts of New Orleans recovering from Katrina but the city has rallied behind their football team which has given the Saints an amazing energy this season. Because of this I’m cheering for the Saints to come marching in to Miami and win this thing. It will mean so much to the people of New Orleans! GO SAINTS!!


Happy Watching!
Stiletto

Real Talk, Real Life, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

The basics of a healthy breakfast is PPP's tip of the week, courtsey of the Mayo Clinic.

It might be the last thing on your morning to-do list, or worse, it might not be on your list at all. But a healthy breakfast refuels your body, jump-starts your day and may even benefit your overall health. So don't skip this meal — it may be more important than you think. Even though you know a healthy breakfast has many benefits, you may not be sure what exactly counts as a healthy breakfast.

Here's what forms the core of a healthy breakfast:

Whole grains. Options include whole-grain rolls, bagels, hot or cold whole-grain cereals, low-fat bran muffins, crackers, or Melba toast.

Low-fat protein. Options include hard-boiled eggs, peanut butter, lean slices of meat and poultry, or fish, such as water-packed tuna or slices of salmon.

Low-fat dairy. Options include skim milk, low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheeses, such as cottage and natural cheeses.

Fruits and vegetables. Options include fresh fruits and vegetables or 100 percent juice beverages without added sugar.

Together, these core groups provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein and a small amount of fat — a combination that packs big health benefits and that also can leave you feeling full for hours.

Try to choose one or two options from each category to round out a healthy breakfast.

To your health!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Black History Month

Although I think we should celebrate our heritage (what ever yours may be) everyday, I do enjoy seeing others participating in events that they may not normally take part in during that special appointed time. I also love seeing all the articles, videos, and blogs because there is always room to learn something new about your culture or someone else’s for that matter!

The below link will take you through some great black history dates from our past up through the present. Enjoy and remember to celebrate you!

Happy Black History Month!
http://events.yahoo.com/blackhistory/2010/

Stiletto,

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Expert Advice

Don't waste your time trying to be like someone else.

Do what you are an expert at, BEING YOU!

Mary Jane

Real Life Real Talk Real Women

Devastation, sadness, & mayhem, yet happiness and miracles……

This is the theme for a small island, kind of forgotten.....until this tragic moment. With all that has transpired, all the sadness, the hopelessness, yet one thing still prevails.

Let’s step back in time; do you remember the response to these other disasters….Katrina, 9/11, and hurricanes that caused catastrophic moments in the human race? Do you remember how people responded to these mishaps?

The fact is when there are tragic moments people do step in. People have come together from all walks of life to help an island of people that they never knew or will never get to know.

From the rubble there are constant miracles and even smiles. The resilience of the human race is astonishing! It makes you realize how important we all are to each other. Whether good or bad, we should never fail to be loving or kind to each other because we never know our last moment.


Exotic Chocolate, Sling Back
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Hobo's Question of the Day

Given the extremely difficult economic times and the difficulty that many Americans are having in finding and keeping jobs, keeping their homes, and providing for their families. Is it reasonable for a person to even consider career changes or leaving their current place of employment?

Hobo is asking this question because I recently had a conversation with a couple of my co-workers who have been considering job changes. Lately we’ve begun to feel somewhat burned out from what we may consider a job that really does not have any room or potential for upward growth. But at the same time I feel a little bit selfish in considering giving up what some individuals are so desperately in need of today.

So, Hobo is asking is it more important to always make an effort to grow personally and spritually or to sometimes just be “realistic” and maintain what you are blessed to already have?

Looking for answers,
HoboE

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

And The Oscar Goes To.......

Well I guess we don't know that part yet, but since the nominees have been announced I thought I would share the list with you in case you missed it. Below are the top 6 categories; however if you are interested in seeing the entire list, click on the link below. The Acadamy Awards will air March 7th.


Complete list of 82nd Annual Academy Award nominations

1. Best Picture: "Avatar," "The Blind Side," "District 9," "An Education," "The Hurt Locker," "Inglourious Basterds," "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire," "A Serious Man," "Up," "Up in the Air."

2. Actor: Jeff Bridges, "Crazy Heart"; George Clooney, "Up in the Air"; Colin Firth, "A Single Man"; Morgan Freeman, "Invictus"; Jeremy Renner, "The Hurt Locker."

3. Actress: Sandra Bullock, "The Blind Side"; Helen Mirren, "The Last Station"; Carey Mulligan, "An Education"; Gabourey Sidibe, "Precious: Based on the Novel `Push' by Sapphire"; Meryl Streep, "Julie & Julia."

4. Supporting Actor: Matt Damon, "Invictus"; Woody Harrelson, "The Messenger"; Christopher Plummer, "The Last Station"; Stanley Tucci, "The Lovely Bones"; Christoph Waltz, "Inglourious Basterds."

5. Supporting Actress: Penelope Cruz, "Nine"; Vera Farmiga, "Up in the Air"; Maggie Gyllenhaal, "Crazy Heart"; Anna Kendrick, "Up in the Air"; Mo'Nique, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire."

6. Directing: James Cameron, "Avatar"; Kathryn Bigelow, "The Hurt Locker"; Quentin Tarantino, "Inglourious Basterds"; Lee Daniels, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire"; Jason Reitman, "Up in the Air."

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Chatting

I have recently re-entered the world of chat rooms but they have changed a lot. Basically now we have Facebook and Twitter to name a couple of sites where logging on allows you to carry on random conversations on a continuous base.

I recently went on to one called iseecolor.com that is actually promoted by a local radio station. I found it kind of intriguing. It has a random system where you can see how many people are logged on at one time. You can either participate or review.

In my singledom, I decided to jump in with a hello shout out to all that were there. It was fascinating all the warm welcomes I received. As I jumped in and out of conversations someone started asking about the weather in various places. To my surprise there were people from Georgia, Pennsylvania, DC, Louisiana and even London.

After about a half an hour I started receiving friend request and PC (private conversation) request. I was floored. I started thinking that maybe there is something to this thing.

It is so funny to me that I can go into a chat and get more action than I have had in months.

People always talk about getting out and being seen or you can't find a mate at home.

Could it be possible? Let me know what you think and I will keep you updated.