The “Unshakable Moxie” (presented by Our Daily Bread Ministries) really intrigued me as you don’t hear the term moxie very often. This series is about women who have struggled and overcome. It is about being real with what happens to us, but never losing faith. It is about resilience and trusting God the entire way through the trials and tribulations we face in this life. A woman of moxie has unshakable confidence and trust in God.
I was unsure what to expect when I thumbed through the beautiful hardcover Prayer Journal and flipped through the inspirational cards with the Bible verses and powerful quotes. I thought it was beautifully designed, and the information I was reading was very encouraging and uplifting. What I was not prepared for was scanning the QR code for the first video to reveal what could’ve been me telling my personal story. I could identify completely with one of the ladies when she started to reveal her story. When women are going through a hard time, it seems like we are the only ones in the world facing trouble. The truth is that we are not alone in this. Other women struggle just as we have, even if it’s not in the same fashion, they are struggling with something so very personal to them. They are afraid to open up and be vulnerable with others for fear of being hurt, or fear of people not understanding, and their feelings being invalidated. But there’s so much love and compassion and empathy and togetherness. When you find another lady who is willing to walk alongside you, admitting her struggles and vowing that neither of you will struggle alone from this point forward. Oh, to have such a friend! It’s hard to be that vulnerable when you open yourself up to another human being because oftentimes judgment follows, but there is such freedom in knowing that you don’t have to censor what you are saying to your friend and knowing that you are safe with them. It was so refreshing to listen as these ladies shared their hearts and were uplifted by the other. It was then that I knew six weeks would not be enough for this study. Yes, it is wonderful to share (be it with a friend or with a small group), but this has to go on beyond just the six-week series because the world needs more of this so that we all can be unshakable moxies.
Do you have a trusted friend like this? Someone you can confide in? We may know a lot of people, but we don’t let a lot of people into our hearts to see the deep dark secrets we carry so close to us. What if we were transparent with others and allowed others to help us through what we’re facing? If you are blessed to have other godly women in your life, consider sharing this series with them. You can go through it together one-on-one, or if you are part of a large church congregation, get a small group going using the videos and all the tools they equip you with within this six-session women’s Bible Study. Together you will strengthen and develop your resilient faith.
The Unshakable Moxie invites you to discover what it means to live a life of resilient faith in this episodic video series. You will learn from remarkable women who trust God — yes, even through the lowest valley!
Watch the series by clicking here. Better yet, order your copy today by clicking here! You can select the full series, or you may also purchase items separately.
Many thanks to Our Daily Bread Ministries for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.
Fathers help shape us into the people we are and will become in life. Some of us have wonderful fathers and look forward to conversations involving them. Others, however, have not had their biological fathers in their lives or have not had them as the best father figure to look up to in life. Instead, they have had to rely on other men to fill that role. Whether it was a grandfather, step-father, or an older man that came into their lives and took the child under their wing to mentor to them, men have an unique role in the lives of children all over the world.
“SHOW ME THE FATHER is the film our nation needs to see. We have become a society that devalues and mocks fathers, but God created the role of fatherhood for a very specific purpose. Many of our children feel unwanted and unworthy because half of their identity is absent. Fathers are necessary for the next generation to heal.” – Nona Jones, Author, Pastor, Speaker, and Executive
The movie SHOW ME THE FATHER is another beautiful movie from the Kendrick Brothers, who are well known for the movies COURAGEOUS, WAR ROOM, and FIRE PROOF. It is their first documentary, though, and people might groan when they initially hear that. However, this documentary shares true stories with wisdom and such power from fathers like Jim Daly (from Focus on the Family), Sherman Smith, Stephen Kendrick, and Dr. Tony Evans. These influential men share their stories and also share the fatherhood of God as well, stressing to us the importance of leaning on our Heavenly Father. God is good all the time, in every situation and circumstance, even if we may not see any good in the situation at the moment. God is ever present, and He is the father we can lean on and into no matter what we face in our lives, even at the hands of our own fathers.
Show Me The Father will be in theaters September 10, 2021, and I encourage you to go see this movie. Take your families with you!! Share with others who may be blessed by the true life stories and what we can all gain from these influential men.
I realize that everyone’s father story is unique to them, just as the men in our lives are unique. There is no one else like them, and while my father story is a happy one, others do not have a happy story when thinking of their own fathers. My oldest daughter struggles with the difficult relationship she has had through the years with her own biological father. So I understand, and I know first hand some of the challenges she has faced and is presently facing, even at the age of 24 years old. Unfortunately, her father/daughter relationship has been a painful source of heartbreak, and it still affects her today. Our fathers very much affect who we are, and are at the core of our identity and direction our lives take. They can help mold us and inspire us, or they can be the reason we question why we aren’t loved or “enough” for them to want a deeper relationship with us. Such has been the heartbreaking case for my daughter, and I have cried tears right along with her over this. There is not anything in the world wrong with my daughter – and never has been – yet it has pained me greatly that my daughter has questioned her own worth and value due to her father’s inability to be actively involved, take a lead role in her life loving her and being there as a father SHOULD be! Just recently, they had another falling out due to his inability to acknowledge how the things he has said and done have her hurt. Instead of accepting responsibility for his actions and words, he chose to invalidate her feelings yet again and place the blame elsewhere instead of with the person he sees in the mirror daily looking back at him, where it belongs. Sadly, instead of owning up to and correcting his behavior, things escalated to where she has decided not to try any longer with him. It saddens me greatly because my father is so very important in my life! HE is my rock, and the one I always turn to no matter what. My daddy is my everything, and it breaks my heart that my oldest daughter does not have this type of relationship with her biological father. Things could have been so different in her life and their relationship; however, he has chosen to become emotionally disconnected over these years, and in our eyes, has dropped the ball in his role as her biological father. Thankfully, all faith in men has not been lost, as she looks up to MY father with such love and admiration, as well as her step-father. Together, these two men have picked up the shattered pieces of my daughter’s heart and helped restore her faith in what a father is supposed to be. Her future husband has been instrumental in this as well, as these three men have helped change her view of fatherhood. She and her husband will strive even more so now to give their own children (when that day comes) two sets of parents that will move Heaven and Earth to be there for them, loving, nurturing, and making memories! I’m thankful for these men that have chosen to step up and show her what being a father is truly all about, and my heart is thankful these men have shown her the unconditional love and devotion of a father for their daughter/granddaughter.
Similar stories like our own will be told in this documentary, and it will have us all thinking more along the lines of the fatherhood of God as well. Show Me The Father has five men sharing their true stories. There will be story lines, of course, along with plot twists you didn’t see coming, but the movie will inspire and encourage you to be the best father YOU men out there can be for your daughters!
SHOW ME THE FATHER is a film the entire family needs to see, so why not go together to watch it? Be sure to get your tickets at showmethefathermovie.com and join families every where in theaters beginning September 10, 2021.
Are you ready for some inspiration with QVC? I know you’re probably thinking this is not the typical place you’d go to as a source of inspiration; however, QVC will air a live Inspirational Gifts Show April 3, 2020 at 10 a.m. Central Time, 11 a.m. Eastern Time, that will change your opinion. I was so excited when I first learned that Candace Cameron Bure would be on the show featuring products from DaySpring, StephanBaby, Vintage Sparrow, and Headbands of Hope. With the threat of the Coronavirus, Candance will not be live on the show; however, she will be on video with some products of her own! There will be some real treats on display and for sale on QVC!
There are two companies I’d like to share with you that will be featured on Friday’s QVC show! Here is a little background information on the first company …
Annie Moss, Founder of The Vintage Sparrow, made it her mission to awaken courage within the hearts of women from all over the globe after raising money to go on a Kenya, East Africa mission trip! The commitment of The Vintage Sparrow is to remind women of their God-given identity so they can walk fully in all that God has called them to be!
Women love jewelry, and The Vintage Sparrow will be offering two necklaces for under $30.00 – what a deal as they are normally $24.00 each. There are four themes to choose from: love, faith, brave, and joy. I, personally, had the pleasure of receiving the Faith based theme. At a time like this, the necklace is a reminder to have faith and not to fear what is going on around us. God is greater than ALL of this in the world today that threatens us. Believe it, claim it, and know it is true!
When I was getting ready for work, I purposely chose this piece to slip around my neck as I greeted the day. With all the news media talking about the Coronavirus, it is easy to get caught up in this and feel extreme anxiety welling up inside of us. This necklace served as a reminder to not fear what is going on around us but to have faith. We are reminded in the bible that all it takes is faith as small as a mustard seed.
The Lord answered,
“If you have faith
even as small as a mustard seed,
you could say to this mulberry tree,
‘May you be uprooted and be planted in the sea,’
and it would obey you!
Luke 17:6
New Living Translation
What a beautiful reminder of God’s spoken words!
The next item I had the pleasure of receiving was from Headbands of Hope. This really touched my heart when I realized that for every item sold, a headband is given to a child with an illness. You can receive two headbands for under $30.00, which is a steal!
Allow me to share some background information on this company as well …
This truly inspiring wish-granting organization was brought about from Jess Ekstrom’s college dorm room as a result of desiring to donate headbands to children with cancer. Having researched and found that there was no business donating headbands, only hats and wigs to chemotherapy patients, Jess made it her mission to get this business up and running to help these children! It was so refreshing to find that these Headbands of Hope are now carried in thousands of stores across the world. Not only that, they have been featured on shows such as Today, Vanity Fair, Good Morning America, and Seventeen Magazine! There are also a variety of celebrities that have supported the cause. The most important “takeaway” from this is that for every headband ordered, a headband will be donated to children’s hospitals in American and also 15 other countries as well. You will receive a donation confirmation with each headband order that will state the exact hospital your purchase benefitted. Not only does this organization support children with childhood cancer, but it has opened up to ALL children with any type of childhood illness. Now that is a cause worth supporting!
Don’t forget to watch QVC’s Inspirational Gifts Show, which will feature meaningful gifts to help you convey your affection for the ones you hold so dear to your heart!
Tune in Friday, April 3, 2020 at 10 a.m. Central Time, 11 a.m. Eastern Time, on the QVC main channel (check your local listings) OR watch live on the QVC Facebook page!
#LoveQVC
#FlyBy
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing the product/product information. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did/will receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Oliver Alexander entered this world weighing in at 7 lbs., 13 1/2 ounces.
My niece allowed my daughter and I to attend his birth. We assisted in providing what little pain relief we could while she was in active labor by rubbing her back, applying pressure, and also rubbing her feet. We worked right alongside her fiancé, and together, the three of us were her birth coaches. It thrilled my heart completely to be a part of this, and I feel like we all got closer in the process!
This little guy has brought so much love and happiness into our lives. My heart is so full thinking of his perfect little fingers and toes, the cutest lips you’ve ever seen, and his nostrils that are in the shape of hearts! I kid you not! This little sugar lump came into the world with beautiful auburn hair – a head full of it!!
And just in that instant, he wrapped me completely and totally around his pinkie finger. One look at him was all it took, and I am forever hooked! I knew I loved him long before I ever met him, but that sealed the deal when I saw his precious little body lifted up by the doctor as he was placed on his mommy’s chest. Laying there, I knew that this little guy wiggled his way even more so into my heart.
This moment filled with so much joy also was tainted by fear …
Seventeen years ago, my sister gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I was right outside the door when she took her first breath and cried such a sweet cry that was like music to our ears. Shortly thereafter, I was ushered into the room to be by my sister’s side as she held her sweet baby, my niece, Melanie. This was such a precious moment as I basked in my sister’s happiness as she held her bundle of joy close to her.
Two weeks later, tragedy struck. My sister took her own life as Melanie laid in her bassinet in the other room. All of the questions filled our heads, but there are no answers … even to this very day. There was suspicion that she was having issues with postpartum depression, but usually that doesn’t show as early as this. In this case, others were saying it was psychosis. Then another twist to this was hearing from a so called friend that my brother-in-law cheated on my sister, she found out, and that was why she killed herself. The truth is some where in all of this, but it will not be found this side of heaven. There will only be great speculation as to what occurred.
Standing in that hospital room in May, I was taken back to that moment in time when we lost my sister, Pamela. I spoke with the doctor outside of the room to express my concerns again. A wrinkle formed between her eyes on her forehead as she listened. We all agreed that my niece needed to be watched closely. Prior to her delivery, we decided for her to spend two weeks at my house so I could help her with the baby but also to keep an eye on her.
This precious time was also tainted by wishing my sister could have been present for the birth. Oh, how I know she would have loved this little one … her grandchild. And even though she’s not here with us in person, I know she’s watching everything as it unfolds. I believe she’s looking out for her daughter and her grandson. While I would never try to take her place, I am honored that my niece trusted me as she did to be there for her during this time. It makes my heart soar to think that she placed such trust in me to be there for her! Although she lives two hours and 30 minutes from us, nothing was going to stop me from being there! She needed me, and there is no place I would have rather been than by her side throughout all of this.
During her pregnancy, we were told that Oliver would have a birth defect. For short, it is called ACC, or the full name of his birth defect is Agenesis of corpus callosum. Agenesis of corpus callosum is an extremely rare disorder, 2 to 7 out of 1,000 births will result in this defect. The absence of this part of the brain was actually picked up on the many ultrasounds my niece had when she was pregnant. We hoped and prayed with all of our might throughout her entire pregnancy that maybe, just maybe, the doctors were wrong. But, as the brain scan revealed the day after he was born, little Oliver did, in fact, have ACC.
To further give you background on this rare birth defect, it is noted with this condition a partial or complete absence (agenesis) of the area that connects the two hemispheres of the brain. It brought us great sadness learning that this condition could result in mental retardation, but we also had hope in that intelligence may be only mildly impaired and subtle psychosocial symptoms may be present.
My niece went forward with her pregnancy knowing what “could” happen. She knew the answer to the “what if he has this …” and she went on to deliver this beautiful baby boy with olive skin and a head full of beautiful auburn hair. I am so proud of the woman my niece has become and that she carried this child in her body even with her own was wracked with fear of the unknown. It was with the great love in all of our hearts that we supported her and helped her through this time.
I will never forget meeting with the doctor and hearing the news … and upon checking out how I put my arms around my niece and held her as she cried. I whispered, “This baby is going to be so loved! NO matter what!” And I meant every single word.
Oliver is now five weeks old, weighing in at 10 lbs 5 oz. And I am happy to report that Mother and Baby are both doing GREAT!
I had the privilege of having them in my home, caring for Mother and Baby, and bonding with them both! I will never be able to properly put into words what this all has meant to me … and to us as a family.
Little Oliver may have ACC, but as of yet, we have not seen any signs of this in him, nor have the doctors. We continue to pray that as Oliver gets older, he will not face any ill effects of ACC. In our eyes, he looks absolutely perfect … looking at him, you’d never be able to tell he has any kind of birth defect at all. He is behaving just like a normal, healthy little boy! And we give God all of the praise, glory, and honor for this miracle he’s working in this little boy’s life.
One morning when I had Oliver swaddled in a blanket, I took him outside to enjoy the sounds of the birds chirping nearby. We sat together in my garden area, one of my most favorite places in my entire yard. I sang to him and prayed over him. I asked God to please bless this little one with a miracle. He is able, and I believe with my whole heart that God can do this for us. This little guy has so much potential, and I want him to have the same opportunities as every other little boy. I want him to grow and know he’s loved and cherished. I want him to excel in whatever he embarks on in life; to flourish and beat the odds! I want people to be completely astonished to learn that he has ACC and that there was ever any doubt that this might hold him back. I want us to be there cheering him on as he does great things in life.
Oh, how I love this little boy!!
Please join me in praying over Oliver Alexander, my angel baby!
After work, school, and working out at the local YMCA, my family and I decided to go to a little town known for their Amish restaurant.
I noticed the lady’s hair right away when I walked through the doors of that old restaurant. Her hair had several pretty shades of blonde, ash, and brown mixed into a very becoming style. When she got ready to fix our plates, I commented immediately on how pretty her hair was. She thanked me and added that she just did her own hair the night before. This lead to a brief conversation about how she was a cosmetologist and had just moved from Indiana. She started talking about how she had to take her State Boards again. The thought of this had made her physically ill especially since she was older and hadn’t done any of those things in years. Apparently, this was required to transfer her license to the state of South Carolina. Her anxiety was extremely obvious, so I mentioned that my daughter had just graduated from Cosmetology school and passed her State Boards with flying colors.
The lady’s face lit up with excitement!
She forgot all about the white plate she was holding in her hand waiting to be filled with our supper. At this point, though, I didn’t mind at all because I was witnessing God in action! You see, my daughter originally groaned when I asked her to go to this restaurant last night. She was tired after working out and really wanted something a little closer to home. However, I finally convinced her to go with us.
After they talked briefly, she asked my daughter to please see her before we left so she could get additional information. She didn’t want to hold us up from enjoying our supper any more than she already had. So, after we finished eating our delicious meal, my daughter went back over to talk to the lady. My daughter was very thorough and provided the contact information for her instructor at the college just in case she had any additional questions my daughter couldn’t address. The lady thanked her and even hugged her like they were old friends! She had this look of relief on her face and looked as if the weight of the world had been lifted off of her shoulders!
My daughter exited the restaurant with her face literally beaming! She was able to calm this lady’s nerves and help her not feel so anxious over the State Boards! My daughter provided the reassurance this lady needed!
Once seated in the vehicle, my daughter said, “Mama, I believe God placed me here tonight just for this reason. I was able to help this lady, so I was meant to come here tonight! It was part of God’s plan.”
My father worked for the same company for 41 years. When he retired in 2012, we worried that he would feel as if he lost his identity. The company had become a part of who he was for all of those years. And then, he retired.
Prior to his retirement, however, my husband and I sought to make one of his dreams come true. You see, tucked away in one of his sheds for 30 years was a 1957 Chevy Bel-air two door hard top. It didn’t seem to have much life in it when looking at the rust that started showing through along with the chipped black paint, but we knew it had great potential. My dad struggled with whether to sell it several times through the years, but each time he held on to the dream of “one day” fixing it up. As the years rolled by, he resolved himself to just look out at what once was and what might not ever be again as he didn’t feel he had the money necessary to restore it. That’s where my husband and I came in. We set out on a mission to bring this classic back to life.
My dad was extremely humbled by our offer, and we could tell it touched a place deep within his soul at the mere thought that his dream was about to become a reality. I’ll never forget the day we watched as the rollback scooped my dad’s car up and started down the driveway. We were excited of what was to be!
Fast forward two years, and this once black, often used as a drag car on dirt roads around our house, “rust bucket” was transformed into a candy apple red beauty with sparkling chrome! My dad’s face lit up like a kid in a candy store when he first saw his “old hunk of junk,” as my mom used to call it. He was so nervous to get behind the wheel because he didn’t want anything to happen to his baby! I was there snapping pictures and proud to be a part of that day! When he drove away, he goosed it and snatched second gear so the tires would squeal, just like a little boy playing with his new toy! I laughed and carried that giddy schoolgirl feeling with me all day!
Shortly thereafter, my dad and I learned of a classic car club in town. We were invited to a few meetings, and then our family joined the club. He’s entered several car shows and received trophies and plaques! After several years of being active in the club, my dad was voted in as the president of the Edisto Cruisers! Now not only did his dream become a reality, but it far exceeded his expectations! He’s living his dream and then some!
AND … he drove this beauty on his last day of work when he retired! It was also at his retirement party that we threw for him, as well.
My dad has really come out of his shell since joining and putting himself out there with this car club. When once he would shy away from others and sit in a corner to himself, (and we’d join him so he wouldn’t be alone), he has since become more outgoing. In his current role as President, it has forced him out of his comfort zone, which is not always a bad thing at all. While he’s not really a people person, he is more social than he has ever been before. Public speaking might not be his heart’s desire, but he does a good job of leading the monthly meetings. It seems my dad has had a transformation in all of this, too!
As my dad has gotten older, and after losing several loved ones, he’s become more spiritual as well. I’ve purposely chosen not to say “religious,” as what he has is deeper than that. He reads his bible and prays genuine heartfelt prayers to our Heavenly Father. He prays with passion and conviction, whether on his knees beside his bed at night or before the meal at the monthly car club meetings. I’m proud of him finding his voice and not being bashful with his prayers, especially. He’s often called on to pray at our house before the meals as well. I love that man! And yes, I’ve always been a daddy’s girl. I love my mama, don’t get me wrong. But there’s just a special connection between my father and I.
When once we worried about my dad upon his retirement, we’ve seen him flourish in his new role. We are so proud of him and thankful that he has a passion for classic cars, but most of all, he’s enjoying sporting around in ‘Ole Red after all these years.
Yesterday was “The Day of Love,” ie: Valentine’s Day. I purposely chose not to write on that particular day but to enjoy seeing the display of love that surrounded me. Not that I was anticipating anything at all, because I am not that type of person, but because I get such great joy of seeing those around me happy and in love as well.
Today I want to talk about attitudes, love, and words unspoken.
One of the features I adore on Facebook is the “memories” that pop up. This is a daily reminder of what happened on that particular day, however many years ago, and what you posted on your timeline. Today, two quotes popped up that I shared a few years apart.
The greatest discovery of my generation
is that human beings can alter their lives
by altering their attitudes of mind.
~William James
This particular quote should have sort-of an awakening effect when you read it and let it sink in. Think about it. YOU can alter your entire life by simply altering your attitude! You can make up your mind to stop looking at things from a negative perspective. Likewise, you can stop choosing to speak negatively about yourself and others as well. Why not be a more enjoyable person to be around instead of wallowing in hatefulness.
Here’s an example. A wife of one of my coworkers is obsessed with me, referring to me as “that” woman. He and I are both married with children, so why should I be the object of her remarks? Why am I the focus? He and I are forced to work together due to the very nature of our jobs. Yet, shortly after I started working here in 2016, I received a text message from her. Little does she realize, this is unlawful use of a cell phone. When you have not had any business texting someone before, yet do so for something of this nature, it’s illegal. Most people do not realize this and think their actions are harmless. We found out from our local sheriff’s department three years ago when my daughter was being hounded by such text messages that it is, in fact, illegal activity. That matter was addressed by the chief, which is where this is headed should I receive any more messages from this jealous wife.
My thing is this: if there’s trouble in paradise, why doesn’t she shift her focus and energy on bettering herself and making sure she’s the best wife she can possibly be. IF she would concern herself more with that, she wouldn’t need to think twice about little ole me. Why am I a threat to her? Perhaps she takes her husband for granted, mistreated him or neglects him. I can only imagine because why else would the green-eyed monster be on her shoulder?
There is one person at work that I do pick on a lot, only because they started picking on me last May. Up until then, I was quiet, shy, and reserved. But it was ON when they started up with me! Now, they probably wish I’d go back to that, but we’ve turned into the best of office buddies. It makes the day go by faster with laughter in the office, and this guy is single so I’m not a threat to anyone in his situation! It’s just innocent fun. (Psst. I’m old enough to be his mother!)
Changing the subject now, I’d like to focus on the spirit of love. This quote speaks volumes.
The moments when you have truly lived
are the moments when you have done things
in the spirit of love.
Henry Drummond
When was the last time you did something for someone out of the spirit of love? Honestly not thinking of anything you stand to gain, but going out of your way to let someone know you appreciate them? I was on the receiving end of such kindness this week, and I walked around with a silly grin on my face for days. DAYS!! It doesn’t have to be something grande or extravagant, nothing expensive even. Just knowing that someone took time out of their day to remember me in some way makes my heart sing.
Last but not least, words unspoken. What’s in your heart? Better yet, have you spoken those words to the one that truly needs to hear it? This is something a lot of people have a hard time with. Whether ego gets in the way, or they are just too bashful to admit their feelings, it’s incredibly sad when things need to be said and yet there’s silence.
Crickets chirping in the distance …
Please don’t allow this to happen. I’ve seen it happen firsthand, and the person that didn’t say how they felt ended up with terrible regret.
Speak now, while the person can hear the words your heart is longing to say!
When I read Mandisa’s story and listened to “Out of the Dark” the term “light at the end of the tunnel” came to mind. We all go through tragedy in our lives. There are times when it can be so completely overwhelming that it destroys our faith in God. Yet, God is always there at the “light at the end of the tunnel.” That is what “Out of the Dark” is all about. It is Mandisa’s story of her overcoming her loss of faith and bringing herself back into the light.
This is an awesome CD. It is filled with an uplifting message intertwined with dance beats and beautiful melodies accentuated by Mandisa’s amazing voice. It can’t help but bring a smile to your face and get your feet moving across the floor. This CD is a glorious celebration of life and how God’s grace that can bring us all out of those dark times. Don’t hesitate. Get your copy and feel the love that comes through each track. #OutOfTheDark #FlyBy
Win a copy of Mandisa’s Out of the Dark CD. Fill out the form below. The contest ends May 30th.
Thank you to everyone that submitted an entry.
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.
Lounging in my plush recliner on a crisp November day, we heard a horn blowing off in the distance. Realizing that it must be the mail carrier at our security gate, my husband sprang to his feet and headed out the door in his sock feet. Within a few minutes, he returned holding a brown box in his hands. I didn’t fully come to realize until later that this item he held in his grip would be a blessing in a box.
As I reached inside to inspect every item which was placed with care, I started to thumb through the Impact Guide. I soon realized that this box was full of goodies that fulfilled a higher purpose. Sure, they were to make me feel encouraged upon receiving them, but more importantly, the items were an encouragement in other people’s lives around the globe as well.
Take the light gray and white towel, for instance. My heart softened as I held the light cotton fabric in my left hand. With the Impact Guide in my right hand, I read that a group of artisans in Istanbul, Turkey created them on looms. Immediately my mind went back in time to when my daughters received a loom kit for Christmas and sat around their own looms making pot holders. These multi-colored pot holders held such special meaning to me back then because they were made by my children’s own hands. While this memory is dear to my heart, now every time I use this towel, I will silently think of and reflect on the hands of those precious people that made it.
My children have always been fans of bracelets, so they were quick to pick up the brown #Unashamed bracelet. They will wear it with pride now, especially knowing it was made by people in Haiti. What I absolutely love is the fact that Haiti Made creates jobs for those who were once in long-term orphan care, as well as unemployed mothers and others in the community. They are making an impact where it matters most.
Having just said recently that I need to drink more water, this gift box will make it easier as it contained Everly Drink Mix. This is another item I did not have a problem claiming for myself. I try to keep a bottle of water on my desk at the office, and this Pomegranate Maqui Berry flavor will definitely make it more appealing throughout the day. An added bonus is that it does not have any calories, either! What touches my heart is knowing that a portion of the funds from the sale of this item will be used to supply mothers in rural Zambia with oral rehydration salt mixes. This is so important as they use it to treat their sick little ones with waterborne diseases, which saves them from dying from dehydration!
Last, but not least, is the Faithbox Carabiner Keychain! My husband has always been a fan of these types of keychains as they quickly attach to his belt loop for easy retrieval when he needs his keys. They serve other purposes, too, which my daughter likes because she can attach it to her book bag so she’ll always know where her keys are.
As you can see, every one in my family benefited from this gift box full of items.
My personal favorite, though, is the Everyday Faith book. It reminds me of a recent visit to Lake Lure, North Carolina with the mountain scene on the front, but the pages within this little book are full of encouragement! As it speaks of beginning a new adventure, it offers words to encourage you as you take that leap of faith. As you begin to explore new territory, it provides thought provoking passages to help along the way. With bible verses for every day of the month, and uplifting messages underneath, it also offers a time of reflection allowing you to write your own thoughts.
I’ve come to realize that this would make the perfect gift. The holidays are here, so why not consider this for your special loved ones on your list? What I love is that this could be the gift that keeps on giving meaning that you don’t just get one gift in the mail and that’s it. While you can certainly choose a one time delivery of Faithbox, there are options to sign up for three months or even a year. As you’re considering what to give those on your list, please seriously consider this precious gift so others will realize the blessing this box will provide for them as well.
While I did receive a complimentary Faithbox from Family Christian, it did not influence my opinion or this review in any way. I genuinely enjoyed the items, but I realize each Faithbox will contain different items than the ones in my box. I have full faith that they will bless someone’s heart upon receipt.
Election 2016 has come and gone. Leading up to the election, we heard disparaging comments against both candidates. Tempers flared on Social Media as opinions were high right along with people’s blood pressure! Having never been one to discuss politics in an open forum, I continued with my every day type of posts. Although my newsfeed reflected posts flying left and right stating the reasons my friends were for a particular candidate and why they were against the other, I stayed out of it.
People lost sleep staying up until all the results were in. Even after that, sleep would not come to those who had their hearts set on a particular candidate just to end up disappointed when the other won the election. Others, like myself, went to bed knowing that God would take care of us all.
Now it’s the morning after, and all the talk has still been about these two candidates. I’m hearing how unworthy people think one is and how strong the other appeared in the face of rejection and defeat. On the flip side, I’m hearing how one appeared to be a sore loser last night with not addressing those rooting for her. Meanwhile, the stock market took a dive, then rose today giving hope to those who were pulling for our President-elect.
Politics have ruined some friendships along the way also. Just this morning I saw a post from a friend stating she had to unfriend people last night due to how heated things were becoming when they’d post.
In the mist of all of this last night, I was reminded how precious friendships truly are. You see, we lost a very special friend. He breathed his last breath after a struggle with cancer. His wife was truly devastated, her mind any where but on this election. She wept deep from her soul as she said, “I love him and I’m going to miss him so much. I don’t know what I’m going to do without him.” When I asked what I could do for her, she replied through her sobs, “Love your husband, Shirley, and tell him to love you. That’s what I want you to do for me. LOVE EACH OTHER.”
I think after all of this with the election, we can agree that we’d like to see a change. With that in mind, why not start with the person we see every morning in the mirror? Why not take my precious friend’s advice? As she spoke through her deep, heart-wrenching sobs and said, “LOVE EACH OTHER.”
We can start by checking ourselves and our attitudes. We can be kinder than ever before knowing that people are struggling. There are those hurting deeply, and they need us to be compassionate. They need us to come alongside them and place our hand firmly on their shoulder as we say, “I’m here for you.”
Don’t let politics or a difference of opinion put a wedge between you and your family or friends. We need each other in this life. Rally around each other. Be the support system for those in need. Love your neighbor and do unto others as you would have done to you. Life is hard at times, but we don’t have to be hard on each other.
Elections will come and go. Friendships should not – not due to a difference of opinion surrounding presidential candidates.
Love each other. That’s the great “take away” in this message today is just to simply LOVE – despite an election, despite differing opinions, even despite different lifestyles. What we truly need is to love each other. Make amends and pull together. Show that you want a better nation. Let the change begin within.
Ah, yes. Election 2016 has come and gone. Let the change you wish to see in the world begin with the person you see in the mirror each morning.
“Daddy, have you been keeping up with the storm?” I asked.
“No, not really. Why? Should I?” He replied with little concern in his voice.
“Yes! Hurricane Matthew is going to impact South Carolina. They’re saying it’s going to be like Hurricane Hugo was for us back in 1989.” I said, trying not to be an alarmist, but hoping he’d see the seriousness of this approaching storm!
“I haven’t really been watching it. I just have a peace about it, and I don’t think it will be that bad.” He said, in the calmest tone ever.
This was a conversation I had with my daddy two days prior to Hurricane Matthew pounding South Carolina’s coast. While we’re not right on the coast, I knew from the news reports that we would be affected in our area.
Taking a moment to reflect back on Hurricane Hugo, I remember feeling nervous and anxious in 1989 with the threat of a hurricane approaching. We boarded windows on our blue house and rode it out that night. At the time, we lived in a block house, so we did not fear damage to our structure so much. With windows boarded, we prayed no trees would fall on the roof as we tried to steal a few hours of sleep. We awoke to downed trees, but we were spared a huge amount of damage, unlike others in our area. I remember doing yard clean up work when one of my former classmates drove up in our yard. My face flushed with embarrassment as they giggled at me, but without lights or water, there was no way to shower. I tried the best I could to look presentable, but there was no denying my less than perfect appearance with hair tossed around and no makeup.
Fast forward 27 years that really sailed by way too fast for my liking, and the same nervousness and anxiousness resurfaced as Hurricane Matthew changed course. I knew then, without a shadow of a doubt, we would feel the affects of this hurricane further inland.
Bracing ourselves for the worst, we filled all of our vehicles with gas just in case we needed to join the mass of others evacuating. We consulted with some of our horse friends in the area, but they thought our horses would be fine in our pasture instead of finding a facility elsewhere to house them until the threat of the storm was over. As the rain started, we were under the shelter tagging our horses with ribbons braided in their manes bearing our names and phone numbers just in case our fence got damaged in the storm and our horses got out. Tears filled my eyes at the thought, but I forced them back so as not to upset my children who were helping us.
Arming ourselves with food, water, flashlights, and ensuring the RV was positioned out of harm’s way, we prayed as Hurricane Matthew drew nearer. Sleep was scarce as the wind and rain slowly began tapping on our windows at first, then became more forceful as it beat angrily on the side of the house and roof so strongly at certain points we felt it would surely burst right through our wooden structure. Thoughts of the big bad wolf from my childhood days ran through my mind as the wind threatened to huff, and puff, and blow my little white house in the country down completely. I forced those thoughts right out of my head and began praying to God instead! As I tiptoed down the hall in the wee morning hours and began to peer out of the living room window, I prayed over the two trees way too close to the front of my house for my liking at that point in time. When once I admired those tall, strong trees, they now became a threat to me as if one fell with the force of the wind, I feared it would land directly on my living room and garage. More upsetting was the thought of the other falling across my children’s rooms. They swirled and swayed back and forth, and at other times looked like someone was shaking them viciously as they were tossed to and fro by the relentless wind. I had a long conversation with God concerning those rather large trees and pleaded with Him for protection over our family. Suddenly, our lights began to flicker, then went completely out leaving us in utter darkness alone with the big bad wolf still beating on our door with this feeling of impending doom deep inside of us.
When daylight began to break through leaving the night sky and my fears behind, I ventured outside to check on the horses. Tears stung my eyes as I found them huddled together under their shelter. The one pony they always seem to leave out in the rain was tucked under the shelter, too. It was as if the other horses had compassion and said, “Okay, little one, you can join us. We do love you, even if we don’t always show it.”
As the rain and wind subsided, we gathered our belongings and headed to the RV. We realized during the previous ice storms we’ve had that our area will be one of the very last with power restored, unfortunately. Having just purchased this Class A Fleetwood Flair RV in March, I whispered prayers of thanks to God for us making the right decision with this purchase! I’ll never forget how we went back and forth until we finally decided it would be a wise move, and this past weekend certainly proved that to be true. We were able to fire up the generator and live in comfort for short periods of time, in an effort to conserve gas. With the water tank completely full and LP gas on board, we were able to have hot showers, too!
Being without power forced us to put down our cell phones more since battery life was so precious, it seemed. Since we were not able to watch television, we were outside together watching our horses graze while my youngest daughter rode her bike. While it seems like a hardship, it makes you spend time with your family that you really should be spending with them any way! I think even after the storm and this timely reminder, we should make more of an effort to put down our phones and turn off our televisions to really get to know our family members again!
When we ventured out in our neighborhood, it didn’t take long for us to realize why we were still without power.
As we drove cautiously around the curve, it almost seemed like more trees were down than standing! Sadly, as we approached a group of homes, we noticed a tall pine tree uprooted and laying over on a house.
Transformers were snatched from the ground and power lines from their poles.
And there stood my sweet friend in her yard. We stopped immediately when we recognized her and asked if everyone was okay. She replied that they were, all things considered. She had tarps inside to protect her belongings, but that was all they could do at that point. We were just thankful to hear that no one got hurt and no lives were lost when the tree fell on their house.
After leaving my friend’s house, I thought of another dear friend I hadn’t heard from. With urgency in my voice, I asked my husband to drive to our friend’s house. Night was falling again by the time we found the driveway. We pulled in and searched for their vehicles, but none could be found. We were hopeful that they evacuated and were in a safer area. As we drove home, I whispered a silent prayer for their safety! And … thankfully, the very next day, they sent us a message that all was well. They were without power, and their phones were not charged to reach out to anyone until that point in time. They assured us that we were the first ones they notified of their safety. Oh, thank God for answered prayer! Our friends were safe!
As far as my parents, they never left their house the entire time … and, miraculously, they never lost power! While my dad didn’t get a bit of sleep Friday night into Saturday morning, my mother slept right through the entire thing.
There’s just something about having peace in the mist of the storm. And, there’s something, also, to be said for heeding the warnings and preparing in advance “just in case.”
We’re thankful for another day, and we pray our electricity will be restored soon. As we wait, we realize how fortunate we are in only having a few downed trees in the back of our property. How fortunate we have been! Thank you, God. Sadly, others in our area, especially along the coast, weren’t so lucky.
There is a lesson to be learned by Hurricane Matthew. All week long at work, we had The Weather Channel going as we watched as they tracked this storm. As it approached landfall, it shifted and came further inland than first anticipated. Governor Nikki Haley was begging and pleading with fellow South Carolinians to evacuate and flee their homes. People rushed to the grocery stores to stock up on supplies as Hurricane Matthew drew nearer.
What if we all saw the urgency in getting our hearts and lives right with God before He comes back? What if we watched, prayed, and prepared for the second coming of the Lord like all who had their eyes glued to the news watching the weather? What if we got down on our knees and begged God for forgiveness and hid scriptures away in our hearts? Then we could be like my father with peace in our hearts not fearing what was to come.
Technology is a wonderful thing, and Saturday night, we watched history in the making thanks to how far we’ve advanced with technology in this day and age.
If you’ve been a fan of this page for long, you know of our love for the Morris Island Lighthouse. Engineers got together with the help of SCE&G to delight all of the lovers of this lighthouse. By pressing a button on their cell phone, this lighthouse lit up once again after being out of commission for many, many years. Solar panels were placed on the lighthouse along with batteries to make this moment in history one we shall never forget as long as we live.
It has long been a dream of mine to walk the wrought iron steps of this magnificent lighthouse. While that dream may not become a reality any time in the near future, I still hold on to it like so many others in attendance that night.
A rather large crowd gathered along the sandy shores to share in this moment in time. A ceremony was held with various speakers from the Save The Light organization, to the mayor, as well as a grandmother who donated $250,000 in memory of her granddaughter who passed away in 2014 as a result of an automobile accident. With music playing, the crowd took pictures, enjoyed a slice of cake celebrating the 140th birthday of the Morris Island Lighthouse, and waited anxiously for this beacon of light to come to life at exactly 7:30 p.m. Saturday night. Sitting on the large rocks lining the beach with the waves crashing below our feet, we stared out across the ocean as a tiny light appeared at first and slowly turned toward us to reveal a beam of light that cut through the darkness. As this beacon of light illuminated the night sky, we watched in amazement and wonder completely thrilled to be a part of this moment in history!
Sadly, the lighthouse only remained lit by solar power for four hours Saturday night. That is the maximum allotted time the coast guard could give to this organization. When we realized earlier in the week that it would not remain lit, we knew we had to do everything within our power to ensure we were among the crowd gathered for this event. My heart danced as I watched the light from this tall tower of hope.
Among those in attendance were a couple who got married at the top of the lighthouse in the 1980s. They drove from Wilmington, North Carolina to be there for the lighting. As I listened to the speaker talk of how they walked the steps and got married at the very top, I couldn’t help but wonder what the pictures must’ve looked like from back then. Oh how I wish I could have seen a glimpse into the lighthouse when the steps were in much better shape to allow climbing to the very top. I can only image the breathtaking view of the island from up there!
My mind quickly shifted to the lady before me in the wheelchair. With her white hair blowing with the slight breeze coming off of the ocean, the gentleman attempted to push her through the white sand that seemed to match her hair. I was extremely impressed when the gentleman finally spoke and said she was 95 years old. It was her heart’s desire to be present for this event, and she was well pleased as evident by the smile stretched across her thin, pale lips.
How meaningful this night was for so many of us, and it is one I’ll never forget. It provided hope for all that one day this lighthouse will be preserved and restored completely.
