WHEN MY THOUGHTS AREN'T ON CHICAGO.........

Awwwwww!!!!

2011-12-02T10:14:00.004-05:00

Today I had a parent/teacher conference with Mrs. Harper, Justin's 1st grade teacher. She tells me that he's doing great in Math, and she has no concerns in that area. However, his confidence in his reading needs improvement. He's not sure of himself and needs to build up his confidence and not second guess everything.
We then started to touch on behavior. While I know that will NEVER be an issue with my kids, maybe at home but NEVER at school, I was still shocked by what she had to say.
She said that Justin was her "name taker", and he takes down the names of everyone who's talking. HA! I used to do that too! She said he can look at her expression and know what she's thinking, and he calls it out!! But wait....this is the kicker!!!!!! She looks at me and said, "Mrs. LaFayette, if I could clone your son, I would. He works with everyone! Even the kid that all the other kids don't like or won't to work with, Justin will volunteer to work with the underdog! And because he does that, this little boy is improving with his grades because of Justin's help." She starts to cry and says that he truly makes her day easier and takes a load off of her. She cried!! I had to get up and walk around the table to tell her thank you and give her a hug. She apologized for the tears and went on to say how much of a help and delight he is. I was truly taken back by that!
Justin has ALWAYS been the favorite! (don't tell Ty or Morgan) Only because he is very observant and thoughtful. I know what Mrs. Harper meant when she said, he can know what she's thinking and call it out, because he does it daily with me! He tells Morgan, "Morgan leave mommy alone, she really needs to rest, she's tired" or he will say, "Don't ask for anything else to eat because mommy wants to fix her food and eat too!" And he's right every single time!! He's the one that will give you a hug and sit and ask you how your day was before he goes to play!!! He has to be the sweetest child I know...and not because he's mine! I'm proud of him and he makes my heart melt!! I have a soft spot for him that I don't have for anyone!! Proud mommy moment!
I love "MY JUSTY"

On a funny note. Yesterday I pulled out his first loose tooth!! He told me, "Ma, there's no such thing as the tooth fairy. You are the one who's going to put the dollar under my pillow, and you probably will take it from my bank too!" HILARIOUS!!!

Food For Thought!!

2011-11-29T16:46:00.002-05:00

Do you ever sit and think about the countless serial killers, rapists and murders you may come in contact with EVERYDAY!?!? Behind you in the line, next to you at the traffic light or walking next to you down the street. God has protected you from harm!! GOD HAS KEPT YOU SAFE! So stop thinking you live in a "good" area or that you were "n the right place at the right time" Plain and simple...GOD HAS KEPT YOU! SO THANK HIM!!! #ThatIsAll

What's Your "WHY"?

2011-11-10T13:54:00.026-05:00

What is your motivation for getting up everyday, even on the days that you don't want to? Why do you work a little harder and dream a little more? What is your WHY? Why do you do what you do?

My family is only half the reason why I do what I do.

In 2006 my life forever changed when I was diagnosed with MS. I knew that a change was coming and I'm not talking about Obama (ba-ding ching)lol. I knew that physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, my life had changed and I needed to do something quick. I started a check list of everything I needed in a new career. My new diagnosis had wiped out the only thing I'd done my entire work career. I no longer had use of my fingers to type (numbness and dead)and my vision blurring prevented me from driving. I needed to be some where close so that I can walk if my vision failed, I needed something with one day off during the week for doctors appts, low stress environment and minimum typing duties. GOD IS GOOD because I found just that!! I received everything I needed. However, there is no such thing as the perfect job if you aren't the BOSS!!! Within 7months that job turned into the exact opposite of what I needed. It became stressful, I had to work everyday and some weekends, the location moved, the duties got greater and my raises and bonuses got cut!!!

Then I joined a team that gave me all of that back, but this time it happened from home and I was the boss!!! I found VISALUS Science and my life changed! Helping my friends, teammates, ENTIRE immediate family and even my health on the body transformation challenge, it became a no brain-er to become a CHALLENGE PROMOTER

Multi-Millionaires/Founders of THE 90 Day Body By Vi Transformation Challenge have changed thousands of lives through Visalus Science. Teaching everyday people how to create a extra income full-time or part-time by contributing their tips and training. Visalus has put the entire ViFamily in a position to have success. The program is unified, their training is phenomenal, and Visalus success is historical. If you want to become successful, you have to start hanging out with successful people! Let's start by hanging with these!

Glimpses of success............

4,000 Attended our Event in Ohio March 2011

6,000 in attendance at our event in Orlando July 2011

11,000 attended our National Event in Atlanta oct. 2011
Are you seeing a pattern here?!?!

Delisa and Marisa were given a FREE BMW for helping others improve their health and life!! 1800 BMW were given away in Sept. 2011!

So many were given away that BMW called Ryan Blair and asked if Visalus could please pick another color because we were giving them away quicker than they could make them!

Made it to Success From Home Magazine.....AGAIN!!!

Made it in the Wall Street Journal!!

Mr. & Mrs. Latmore were only 1 of the most inspirational couples in Visalus!!

"8 Months ago our Family of 7 was living on 1 Minimum wage Fast food salary. 6 Weeks Later we were Ambassadors, 8 Months Later We are 3 Star Ambassadors. NOT Having $$$ is NOT an Excuse it is a REASON to get Started - It can't get More REAL than this pic"

Another very inspiring couple!!! Listen to their testimony! Pause my playlist to the right.

Glimpses of fun.......................................

And last but not least...Glimpse of life altering transformations.....

NOTE:

DO YOUR RESEARCH PEOPLE!! Every network marketing company claims to have the best COMPENSATION plan, best product, record breaking growth, & headed for a billion in revenue. Yet none of these companies have a new 6 figure Earner created every 36 hours, they don't have 25 BMW's given away every day, don't have 8 million pounds lost in under 2 years, not even close to 3000% growth over 18 months, don't have 80,000 people in their company let alone 80,000 joining just last month, and finally none of them will be the first and ONLY product company to do 1 billion in revenue in a year without leaving North America... There is only one... VISALUS SCIENCES!
*Results are not typical.*
To visit my blog, click here!

Looking Back

2011-09-25T23:49:00.003-04:00

repost

The doctors told me I had MS on my brothers birthday. March 6, 2006. At the beginning it was terrible! The tests, were awful. Spinal taps where they go into your back to get fluid. Risky and painful healing.

Faith is what keeps me going and gets me through. I feel the best now then I ever did. In 2000 right after I got married and had my son I lost central vision in one of my eyes. I had peripheral vision in that eye but not central. I thought it was stress at that time and the doctors associated it with my migraines that would happen over the same eye. It happened again years later after my second son. That's when I knew something was wrong. Then I started getting blurred vision and my fingers and toes were numb. Couldn't feel anything. Could grasp anything. My scenes of touch was heightened. A hair brush felt like needles! My leg gave out on me at work and I almost hit the floor. It had attacked my muscles. I had to walk with my knee locked and not bend it because my knee was not strong enough to push off on. I went though a major transformation spiritually and I can say I have NEVER had that issue again. I had to stop working because I could not type!! Now I'm back to 48 wpm so GOD is good! I still have blurred vision if I'm stressed and numbness in my feet but that's it. I will tell anyone and everyone about my story because it is not for me. My story/testimony is for someone Else!!!!!

All if this is my past, my present is great and my future is brighter!! God is my healer and master physician!! I am brand new threw HIM

UPDATE:

Sept. 25, 2011

Reading this is sooo amazing! He was healing me then, but it didnt stop there. My typing and vision is back and I'm just as fast/accurate as I was before, if not more! I have not had an issue of numbness since this post. I have to reflect on where I've been so that I can see where GOD has brought me!!

How to Start a Movement? Leadership Lessons from Dancing Guy

2011-08-18T08:11:00.000-04:00

Wow!!! This is the MOVEMENT that Visalus started!! This is exactly how MY team was built! "The first follower turned a lone nut into a leader!!"

Pray for those who HURT you!

2011-08-02T13:12:00.002-04:00

I've always heard this, "pray for those who persecute you", and I've done it a few times but only because it was something I was suppose to do. My heart was never truly in it. However, once I truly realized how bad I was hurting, when I wanted it to stop, I did it! Wholeheartedly! If you are close to me or if you know me, you know my pains of my past. You know what has hurt me to my core. I've dealt with the same pain for 26yrs!!!

My husband, who I love and can truly say is my best friend said, "Do you pray for him?" And it clicked!! It hit like bricks! Not because I knew the power of praying for those who hurt you because I had yet to come to that revelation. But because God had showed me a long time ago that I am suppose to pray for those I think of. And in the end, HE always shows me why I had to pray for the people. He would send a messenger or I would get in contact with the person and they will tell me everything! Their trials were always part of the prayer I would pray in advanced. So it hit me!! Pray for him because he is always in my thoughts. The minute I started praying for him, my hurt left, instantly I was DELIVERED from the hurt that I felt from him. Now fear is another thing I need deliverance from, but hurt no longer lives here. At the end of the day, we must forgive. HE didn't suggest for us to forgive..HE TOLD US TO!
So for every boyfriend/girlfriend, family member or friend that has hurt you, put them in your prayers daily. Pray for their well being and their salvation. Pray to be rid of the hurt that they've caused, ask for deliverance. Ask for GOD to forgive you for your part. As you start to do this daily, you will feel your heart soften up, and that's when the healing will begin!!

Body by Vi Promoter Gives Kidney to Fellow Team Member

2011-07-24T15:34:00.001-04:00

Prospers Paradigm is more than a team who's trying to help save lives thru the 90 day body by Vi Challenge, we are a family who are determined to help save eachother!! See the selfless journey of our partners who are now brother and sister! They share something far greater than a business!!! I love my company and my team!!! Prosper Paradigm and Visalus is where I call home!! Love you guys!!!

TOP SECRET: MISSION TRANSFORM YA

2011-07-22T19:28:00.000-04:00

Wanna look like any of them!! My girls deep in this video!!! www.changingmy.bodybyvi.com

From test to TESTimony!

2011-07-21T13:10:00.003-04:00

So I rcv'd some very disturbing news that hit me to the core. I was informed that a very close cousin & friend was diagnosed with cancer and she was going to the doc to see what stage she was in. I prayed the heavens down when I heard the news! Putting satan (he doesn't deserve a normal font!)in his place and sending him back from which he came!! But wait..she posted this on her wall....

"I got a call from my Dr. he said ""It looks like cancer come in so we can discuss treatment plans"" I wont lie I was scared. Well come to find out they had the wrong chart. Im cancer free:) I walked out on cloud 9, what a good feeling :) I did tell Dr Flores I won't be back, I gotta find a better Dr. But I aint mad, I feel too good to be.... LOL"

I DARE someone to tell me that JESUS does not LIVE! I triple dog dare you!!!!!!!! lol

Recap of my BDAY weekend!!

2011-07-19T11:54:00.033-04:00

I took your advice and I did NOT bring the kids, and it was soooo needed. I'm much nicer and have more patience with my rugrats!! So as you know, or might not, I turned 32 on July 18!! This is where I stayed!!

2 bedroom villa at the Hilton Vacations at SeaWorld!!!!

My bday weekend was also the weekend for my binesses HUGE CONFERENCE! The 90 day body by Vi by Visalus, held the VITALITY conference in Orlando also. I connected with my business partners/friends from all over the world!!

WE SHOWED UP AND SHOWED OUT!!!!!

over 6,000 in attendance!!!

I also met up with SOME of my friends/team while there!

It was a GREAT event!!

Filled with proposals, Checks, Cash, and Cofounder Ryan also paid for a kids college education!

Not to mention the tons of black BMW's that were in the house!! Visalus gives you $600 a month when you hit Regional Director (RD), on top of the other ways of getting paid. I have been 2k close to this position for 2 months! I will hit it this month!!!!! UGGGH!!

Want one!?!??!

One of the highlights was meeting our Visalus Kid Sophia!! She was 1 of the kids who won the real DISNEY EXPERIENCE! She's going to CALI! Limo, airfare, and resort stay!!

She's excited she won!!

Sophia and her mom
See her video and you will understand why she won!!!!!!!

Not to mention...Master P, Romeo, Hulk Hogan and their family was there and are taking the 90 Day Body By Vi Challenge!! 10million in prizes and 25k to be given away to the challenge winner! Lose 1lb and you can still win thru our lottery raffle!

When it was all over...this is how I relaxed!!!

Wonderful weekend!!!! To view my blog, click here!!

What Should I do???

2011-07-07T17:55:00.006-04:00

So, my fam and I just left Chicago Tuesday. We were there for 6 days and had a nice time. This trip was more for the kids than hubby and I. They had a great time. They played, swam, went to BBQ's and hung with cousins ALL day EVERY day!!

Unfortunately, it wasn't the trip for hubby and I as it usually is. We didn't do a date night or go to the lake like we do EVERY time we go home. We didn't do a date night at all!!! So hubby says that maybe we should make our Florida trip that was originally a family trip, just a trip for him and I. The kids don't know about Florida so it's not like they are expecting it. We would leave in a week. He says that they had a great trip and we focused on them then....so now we should focus on us now. I soooooooooooo want to leave them but I feel guilty. Feels like I shouldn't play without them. Especially in Florida..that has always been our family vacay...but however, we did miss our chance to play in Chicago. What do you think? It's only for the weekend....should we steal away without the kids...or take them with us??

Are you on Facebook???

2011-06-19T21:55:00.002-04:00

Hey you guys!!!!! Are you on facebook?? Can you do me a HUGE favor!?!??! My babies put together a video and I need your help to vote for it so that they can win some great Disney World prizes!!! They've worked sooooooooooooooooo hard!!! Here's how you can help if you are on Facebook!

1, Go to Visalus Offical Fan Page and LIKE the page!
2, Scroll to find my video dated June 14th and when you find it, LIKE it! FYI, my name is Tia LaFayette ;)

If we are not already friends...here's a link to my page or you can find me via the fb badge to the right!! Thank you for your help!!

All for a REASON

2011-04-26T21:37:00.007-04:00

We sometimes go thru life wondering why did our relationships fail, or people vanish from our lives without a word. Sometimes it's sooo sudden, and we have no clue as to why life has taken the turn it did.
I always used to say, where would I have been now if I didn't marry at 20, if I didn't have my first child at 20? It didn't dawn on me til I reached my mid 20's that I realized it was a protection from something. God allowed me to make my poor decision to get pregnant early because HE knew my future. He knew that if it wasn't with my now husband, that it would've probably been with someone else. I truly feel that meet, getting pregnant and getting married to my husband was a life saving event.

I look back to the type of girl I was, and I realize that I did not have much street sense. Not only that but I didn't have many standards either. All you had to do was be nice and seem as if you were trying to make a good life. Other than that..all else didn't matter. Well, not that it didn't matter but I don't think I paid attention to, or cared much about anything else. I look back on situations that I've been in that could have gotten me raped, kidnapped or even killed. I was wise, but not when it came to the streets. That was a place I had no place being, but found myself in situations that would've left me in harms way.

Which leads me to this young lady, Corrissa. She too was naive. The only difference between her and I was that I was not easily impressed. I didn't care for the rims, flashy dress, money and sound system. Remember, all you had to be was nice and treat me cool. As I look back..that wasn't enough. Maybe at the age of 19 that's how we all were, impressionable, but Corrissa lost her life.

So next time you question why, thank GOD instead!!

RIP Corrissa :(

To visit my blog, click here.

Is Your Order Out of Order?

2011-04-14T16:24:00.002-04:00

My heart is heavy and this is where I am speaking from so please bare with the possible ramblings. I usually have my words together and in order and precise, unfortunately it's my heart that's typing and not my head.

God has truly been dealing with me the past few months. He is answering prayers and showing me who HE is. I have interceded for many people. Cried and prayed for others, and one by one He would show me how He has brought them full circle. He would show me how He did exactly what I prayed for. I slowly started to think..."Hey, what about me?" I have prayed for things and it seems as though God was purposely showing me the blessings of others but ignoring me. I know better than to let a thought like that cross into my head and I called satan out for the liar that he is. It wasn't until I heard a soft voice say, "you have not because you ask not." I started to realize that God was only doing what I asked of Him, and He was showing me. However, I said , "you are doing for everyone but me". I guess feeling sorry for myself. I started to realize how many tears I've cried on behalf of others. How many times I've prayed and poured my heart out for others. Yes I have prayed for myself and have been brought to tears, but never like the way I cry and pray for others. I started to realize while I'm being a light and a vessel for and of Him, I COULD be leading myself to hell and others to HIM. I realize that I need to worry about myself, my salvation and my walk more than I care about others. One reason is because I can't get them there, I can only help myself, and lastly, how can you guide others when your path is questionable?

I realized my order was out of order. Even though my head and heart puts GOD first all the time. My actions said otherwise. My order was, business, husband, kids, God then myself. Over the last few weeks I have started to rearrange that. He's coming back ya'll and when He does He is looking for His spotless bride. I am trying to do all that I know I'm suppose to to make sure I am chosen. The earthquakes and tsunami's are all in HIS word. The government can't help, your dollar will lose it's value and that can't help you either. Saving money, storing food and underground bunkers will not shield you. It doesn't matter anymore. Work on your order. When He is truly first, you don't have to work so hard at other things. When He is put in HIS proper place, He will handle EVERYTHING!!!

Read your bible as much as you can....read it out loud since faith comes by hearing!! Pray for wisdom and for God to speak to you and give you wisdom, knowledge and understanding of Him and His word and all things concerning HIM and HIS will in your life. I pray that whomever reads this is taken to a higher level in HIM. I also pray that everyone who is reading this takes a moment to say a prayer for me...as I am and have for you.

Love you all.....

God Bless

To visit my blog, click here.

Never would've Imagined!!

2011-03-26T15:57:00.004-04:00

Everyone knows that I grew up in Chicago. My closest friends were from elementary school on the south side of Chicago. It's something about childhood friends from elementary. They prove to be the "true" friends of our childhood. There's a realness and an innocence about us as children. High school becomes filled with mean girls, popular against the unpopular, jocks against the geeks and so on.
Facebook has connected me with some of my closest best friends EVER!! I have found friends for kindergarten and up! It is a blessing and a reason for it.
Many of you know that I am a challenge promoter for the fastest growing weight loss company in the world! With 4million pounds lost in a year and 20,000 new members since last month, we are a force to be reckoned with!
This business has reunited me with one of my elementary school friends. With the help of facebook, I have been able to find her, reconnect with her, help her with her health and weight and VERY soon we will be working together in the business! God works in mysterious ways!
Shanika, I am glad I found you, I'm glad that you are here in atl with me, and I can't wait til we grow together Financially, Mentally, Spiritually and humbly!!

PS...Shanika has turned her eating habits around and has lost 2lbs in 3 days on the 90 Day Body By Vi Challenge! Ask us how!!!

Soooooooooooo proud of you! GO SHANIKA!!! Looking forward to adding you to my before and after photos!!

Addicted!!

2011-03-15T18:55:00.002-04:00

Repost

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word addiction? Most think of substance abuse (drugs, alcohol) But there are more addicts in society than we know. You and I could very well be an addict!!
Some of us have addictive personalities/behaviors and don't even know it.
Do you find yourself needing to talk with that special someone everyday, and if not you don't sleep well? Do you need that cup of coffee to get your day on the right track? Do you have to wear make-up just to go to the store?
One similarity that these behaviors have that is like substance abuse is withdrawal!! Your day not going well because you didn't have your coffee is an addictive behavior. Not sleeping because you haven't heard from the special someone today sounds like withdrawal...lol Doesn't it? Think about it. When a substance abuser doesn't get his fix sometimes he is left feeling sick and sometime volatile..that's called withdrawal. Do they differ? Are you addicted to anything or would like to share your thoughts.

March 6, 2006

2011-03-06T11:47:00.001-05:00

We all have those days we would never forget. For me, the birth of all 3 of my babies hold a spot in my memory that I can never erase.

One other day is March 6, 2006, my brother's birthday and the day that my life forever changed.

For 6 months prior to this date, I had been going through a series of heath issues that were unexplainable. Vision loss (which happened once in 2001) numbness in my fingers and toes, even the loss of feeling in my fingers and toes all together.

What was wrong with me? Why was I having so many problems with doing things that came so natural to me.

The touch of a hair brush felt like a porcupine, certain fabrics across my skin felt like sand paper.

6months of testing, vision evoked tests, MRI, CT scans and lumbar puncture or spinal tap. That was the worse, they go into your back a few centimeters from your spine and extract fluid. That actually wasn't too bad, it was the blood patch I had to get. That's where they pull blood from one part of your body to seal up the hole the made in your back because of terrible side effects I was having.

Laying in bed crying, wondering why? What did I do sooooooooo wrong? I was finally happy and now this! 6 months of not knowing anything.

But, on March 6, 2006 my doctor told me that all my test came back inconclusive. He had no clue what was wrong. Until he pulled my spinal tap levels. The levels were abnormal and he told me I had MS.

My heart is racing!! He starts to tell me of the meds I should try. All included shots administered by me!

I left out of the office terrified. I didn't take the elevator for fear of someone seeing the tears. I walked down 3 flights of stairs and cried in the stairwell for a good 5 mins til I was able to meet my mom who was waiting in the car. I had to be strong for her. I down played how scared I was to everyone I knew. I can NOT have them worrying about me.

I lost ability to drive. My babies faces were fading before my eyes. I found myself not being able to get out of bed, couldn't hold a pen, couldn't run, could barely walk. I gave myself shots every day for 3 months. Then I realized that God had a plan for me, and it was going to come through this diagnosis.

To this day I am delivered and healed by my savior JESUS!! No more shots, I am driving again and seeing everything I should see. I am not in a wheelchair like the doc said I would be. I am not dealing with my legs giving out! I am healed. The doctor's didn't tell me, my faith did!

My faith told me that every lesion they saw on my MRI would be gone, and glory be to GOD it was!!! I am here sent by HIM to tell of HIS works in my life. He is not a respecter of person. HE will do it for you!! He is the God of the encore!! He will do it over and over again!!!

Thank you for listening!!!!

For other posts, visit my blog by clicking here.

Life's SURPRISES

2011-03-02T22:23:00.011-05:00

Growing up, we are taught to get a great education so that we can get a great job working for others to make their dreams come true. We've learned that %60 is failing, where in my business %60 is AWESOME! School didn't teach me how to work from home with MY OWN BUSINESS! They didn't show me a plan B just in case life threw me a curve ball that I couldn't catch! When I was diagnosed with MS, none of my notes, books or tests prepared me for what I should do next. I've been in the medical field my entire life and in 6 months I could no longer do what I've always done! What I had thousands of dollars in student loans in. Every time I went to work, my MS would have me immobilized, debilitated. Couldn't see, couldn't drive, couldn't feel, and couldn't take care of my family. At one point I couldn't see my 2yr old's face, or my darling baby girl as a newborn. Thank God I had a family who was there and supportive. And a husband with a heart of gold and compassion like no other!! I had to stop working...my health depended on it! My cousin introduced me to a young lady that changed my life!!!

Yvonne came into my life and told me that there was another way! I could get healthier and work from home! Making my own money, no stress, do as I want when I want!! Her story of retiring at the age of 29 and working from home for at least 5 years was inspiring to me!! She then lead me to Robert Dean.
Multi-Millionaire Robert Dean has changed hundreds of lives through his company T.O.P.G.U.N Exp team. By teaching everyday people how to create a extra income full-time or part-time by contributing his tips and training. Mr. Dean and TOPGUN team have put many in a position to have success. His program is unified, his training is phenomenal, and his success is historical. Even though life has taken us on a different path at the moment, I know that the lessons I've learned will last a life time. And no matter where we end, I will ALWAYS consider Ms. Yvonne Berry as my mentor and not only a friend..but family.

God works in mysterious ways!! Through this venture, God brought me a great business partner!! Finally someone who shares the same faith and love for CHRIST!! The first person that I've shared private things with! Who can do that with someone they work with?? She is more than my business partner...she is one of my closest friends. Shonda Finklea!! Whether at work.........
Or at play...you are bound to find us together!!
By the way..check out her amazing transformation!!! ;)

This freedom has lead me to sooo many wonderful people!!
Extraordinary trainer, mentor, woman of GOD and documented Millionaire who has helped countless people reach their goals and dreams through phenomenal faith based trainings and leadership!! Donna Allen!

The list goes on and on and on!!! At the end of the day, life will take you on a journey. Not for the weak at heart but for those willing to step out on faith and let GOD direct your path! Do NOT let you fear grow bigger than your FAITH!!
“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”

WHEN MY THOUGHTS AREN'T ON CHICAGO.........: WOW!!!!!!!!

2011-02-23T21:04:00.006-05:00

We all have something about our bodies that need tweaking, and if you don't, your health needs it. I, along with my friends, family and teammates have found something GREAT!!! The 90 day body by Vi Challenge!! I've never been the one who needed to lose weight, except right after my kids. I was always interested in gaining a pound or two! After being diagnosed with MS, my health became a HUGE factor! After gaining 8lbs, and helping my ENTIRE immediate family, a LOT of my distant family, friends, teammates and strangers to transform their bodies, it became a no brainer to get into the business as a challenge promoter!! Take a look at the before and after pics of my friends, family and teammates who participated in the 90 day body transformation challenge by clicking the Body by Vi Challenge Photos tab above!!

What's on my mind....

2011-01-19T23:56:00.003-05:00

Here are a few of my old posts that I posted some time ago. Funny how life brings me back to this same place and these poems have been my therapy...more than once. Just wanted to share.

The loudest words spoken are the ones unheard

The ones that start with a kiss and end with a hug

The look in your eyes, the touch of your embrace

Nothing much has to be said, your spirit speaks volumes

Your silence is loud, your look is deafening

I hear your touch

I hear your silent tears

I hear your pain

While your words are kind and loving

Your silence is passionate,

Your silence is fearful,

Your silence is love

From your silence I can see your heart

No words are ever needed, I'm listening to your heart.

Humble Prayer

Heavenly father, I pray to thee,

help me to love others,

the way that you love me.

Help me Lord, in all that I do,

to always be a reflection of you.

Walk with me closely, night and day,

so I shall never go astray.

Live in my heart, and give me your light,

that someday I may become pleasing in your sight.

Make me your vessel, that others may see,

your spiritual presence dwelling within me.

Walk with me Father, till my journey is through,

then by your grace, bring me home to you.

Hear My Cry!!!

My heart is heavy and burdened
Lord hear my cry
The enemy is attacking all those around me
while you have been my comforter and my strength
some are still lost and weary
Lord take my pain and feeling of helplessness away
heal the bodies and the financial struggles of my
loved ones
Release the strongholds that the enemy has placed
Dry my tears and hold my heart
Help me to be a blessing to others
as you have used me before
Show me your works and keep me grounded in you
while I know weeping may endure for the night but
joy cometh in the morning.
hear my cry Lord.

Visit my blog here.

Look Into My Eyes

2011-01-19T23:42:00.002-05:00

repost
Off and on throughout my life, I've dealt with insecurities and the feeling of self-consciousness. I now am able to see that all the things I was insecure about or self conscious about are no longer a factor. Not because I feel confident about these plagues, but because I know who I am in HIM and whose I am. It is not important at the end of the day. So I've learned to just be happy in the skin I'm in. I have grown content with my issues. I still have them, but they no longer have me. Here's what I wrote in my time of pain.

If you look into my eyes

you will find a young lady who has the ability

to laugh hysterically and cry uncontrollably

all in a day

You will find the jokester and life of the party

amongst her circle

Look into my eyes and you will find

I'm a mother, wife and friend

someone who puts others before her

loves those who angered her

befriends those who are different from her

brings those to tears in laughter

warms hearts with compassion and sincerity

but look a little deeper

You will find a young girl who still seeks approval

who's pain is deep and tears are shallow

but look a little deeper and you will find

the contentment of my present

the excitement of my future

the pain of my past

look a little deeper and you will find a young lady

who loves people

but wants to be alone (still tryin to figure that one out)

you will see a mother, wife and friend

deal with the curses of MS daily but ignore it

and keep it moving

you will find someone who will love so hard

til' it hurts

who has dealt with her own insecurities

not big enough, not tall enough and yes

not dark enough

Looking into my eyes will tell you

where I've been

the path I've followed

and pain I've endured

but look into my heart and you will find

where I'm headed

the happiness I' ve felt

and the journey I'm seeking

Look into my eyes......

Visit my blog here.

Ted Williams - The Man with the Golden Voice

2011-01-07T08:57:00.001-05:00

I said this was our year, and it's his too! HE is putting HIS people in position!! Ya'll better get RIGHT before you get LEFT!! He is on HIS way!! Through it all, he knows who gets the credit!!

Accidental 'butt-dial' sends out SWAT team

2011-01-05T17:46:00.001-05:00

Woman who received garbled call thought husband was being held hostage
SWAT teams swarmed a Chicago-area school Monday evening after some hip-hop music and an accidental phone call led a woman to believe her husband was being held hostage, officials said.

Toting automatic weapons and clad in riot gear, SWAT team members stormed the Winnetka, Ill., school where the woman's husband works and searched it for nearly three hours — all because of a so-called "butt-dial."

"You know how when you sit on your phone when it's in your back pocket and it calls the last number that was dialed? His wife was the last number he'd dialed," Winnetka Police Chief Joseph De Lopez told the Chicago Tribune.

"He was listening to music and he had, I don't know, hip-hop … or music like that, where there were lyrics that were gangster-like," said Mark Friedman, the school district's superintendent. "So there were lyrics on the radio as he was driving home, and she listened to it and became concerned."

The wife, who was not identified, told 911 that when she received the call, she could not get her husband to respond, reported Pioneer Local, leading her to believe he was being held hostage by a gunman in his office.

The sweep at the Carleton Washburne School ended when the man was found safe at home by police, the Tribune reported. The man, who is an administrative employee at the school, declined to comment on the situation.

"He's embarrassed," Superintendent Friedman told the Tribune. "Who wouldn't be? He's taking it hard that it created such a response."

The 500 students who attend the middle school had left for the day by the time the 30 officers, some in bulletproof vests and helmets with face shields, arrived.

Winnetka police had no estimate of how much was spent on resources during the false alarm. After both the employee and his wife were interviewed by investigators, it was deemed that there was no intent to deceive police. No charges will be filed.

Thought for the day...

2010-12-26T14:20:00.002-05:00

Marriage is not about finding the right person, it's about being the right person. You can NOT be the right person if your heart is filled with anger, hurt, bitterness and resentment, there is no room for love. You can not be taught how to love, you have to experience it. The first step is to acknowledge that your heart is hurt. These hurts will leave a fossil like impression that can't be removed without the help of CHRIST. Making it impossible for someone to occupy a place in your heart. Turning "I do's" into "I don't". Then we start to blame the other person. "I thought he/she was the one", "she/he is not what I thought he/she would be." When all along, our hearts couldn't conceive it or receive it. God holds marriages to a high regard and HE wants them to work. ANY marriage can work because of HIS covenant. You don't have to be the "right one" you have to be the "correct one", and God will make that happen IF you want HIM to. So at the end of the day, don't go searching for Mr./Mrs. Right, be Mr./Mrs. Right and you will be drawn to a like spirit/characteristic which in turn will have you to become "the right one".

Saddened :-(

2010-12-22T22:37:00.002-05:00

CHICAGO has lost a great fire fighter in this mornings tragic event. A friend of my husbands, Corey Ankum. Keep his family and the other fallen heroes and their fam in your thoughts and prayers. :-(

Changing lives..1 pound at a time!!

2010-12-21T12:36:00.024-05:00

We all have something about our bodies that need tweaking, and if you don't, your health needs it. I, along with my friends, family and teammates have found something GREAT!!! The 90 day body by Vi Challenge!! I've never been the one who needed to lose weight, except right after my kids. I was always interested in gaining a pound or two! After being diagnosed with MS, my health became a HUGE factor! After gaining 5lbs, and helping my ENTIRE immediate family, a LOT of my distant family, friends, teammates and strangers to transform their bodies, it became a no brainer to get into the business as a challenge promoter!! Take a look at the before and after pics of my friends, family and teammates who participated in the 90 day body transformation challenge!!

Even the President is down for Visalus!!!!!!!

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Justin's Born Day!

2010-12-21T10:44:00.004-05:00

My babies (Morgan 2, Justin the birthday boy 6, and Tyler 11)

Justin is by far a comedian!! Over the years he has said some things that have stuck with me, I had to share them before I start to forget! I hope you enjoyed his lil comments as I ALWAYS do! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUSTIN!!!!! MOMMY LOVES YOU!!!!

1, "Oh snap grandma!!! We can't get up!" - Justin age 3, he and his grandma were on an air mattress.
2, "Hey mommy, here's the thing for your muscles. Yours are sooo much bigger than daddies". - Justin age 3, bringing me my bra!! smh
3, "I'm going to be quiet now, I'm talking away all my fresh breath". - Justin age 5, after brushing his teeth.
4, "Mommy is it today or tomorrow?" - Justin age 5, after hearing me tell him, "you can play the wii tomorrow". smh...again. lol
5, "Mommy you are out of your twenties?? I thought when you get out of your twenties you die!" - Justin age 5, 2 weeks ago!
6, I asked Justin on the first day of school if he made any friends. And his comment to me, which is my favorite is.........." It's too early, I haven't decided on who I'm going to pick yet".

That comment made me realize that way tooo often we let our friends chose us, when we are supposed to chose them! From the mouth of a babe! Love you Justin!

One Nation Under GOD!

2010-12-13T19:23:00.002-05:00

A Pastor with GUTS!

Thought you might enjoy this interesting
prayer given in Kansas at
the opening session of their Senate. It seems
prayer still upsets some
people.. When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open
the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usualgeneralities, but this is

what they heard:

Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask
your forgiveness and to seek your direction and
guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those
who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we
have done.

We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed
our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it
the lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it
welfare..

We have killed our unborn and called it
choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it
justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our
children and called it building self esteem....

We have abused power and called it
politics.

We have coveted our neighbor's possessions
and called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and
pornography and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honored values
of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts
today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Amen!

The response was immediate. A number of
legislators walked out during the prayer in
protest. In 6 short weeks, Central Christian
Church, where Rev. Wright is pastor, logged more than
5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls
responding negatively. The church is now receiving
international requests for copies of this prayer
from India , Africa and Korea .

Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on
his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,'and
received a larger response to this program than any
other he has ever aired.

With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep
over our nation and wholeheartedly become our
desire so that we again can be called 'one nation
under God.'

Faith

2010-11-12T15:17:00.003-05:00

We all know that God placed a measure of faith in each of us. We also know that Faith is the substance of all things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. How many know that faith comes by hearing? How many know that faith without works is dead? How many know that we must meet God halfway in order to receive all that He has for us. While God will not do it all, He also doesn't expect us to. We can't go to him in prayer for everything and do nothing ourselves. He wants to see your level of commitment, your heart, and your love for him. We use faith in all aspects of our lives.

While we know we are to sow seeds, we can also ask God to bless us with a seed to sow. You can have faith to sow the amount of your heart or the amount God calls you to give. Some don't realize that sowing a seed is not for God. He already owns your house, car and accounts. He has the kingdom that never goes broke, that never withers. God calls us to sow seeds to bring out our inner potential or deliverance. It is only to get you to the next place in your life and in Him. He tests our level of obedience by putting on our heats what He wants us to do or to give. Sometimes we are confused of whom the speaker is. We say, "God won't tell me to sow my last 300 dollars". But how many know that satan will not have you giving to God's Kingdom. We also have reservations because we have never been called to do such a task. Many don't realize you are being called to do something you've never done before so that God can take you where you've never been before. Our minds can't conceive what our hearts are trying to achieve. Our natural minds cant fathom it. A lot of us feel that now is not the time. Bills are too high and too much is going on in our lives. Well, that is the best time to do so.

Faith without works will be void. Do your part. Not because you want something in return, but because it's the least you can do considering the blood he shed for you. Don't have a seed to sow? Your faith will make it happen. Give God 10% of your time, of your day, of your hours.

Sow your seed for a renewal of Faith, wisdom, knowledge and understanding, and I promise you, God will give it back 10 fold!

Def and living with Tourette

2010-11-05T15:19:00.005-04:00

Meet Shawn Jackson. I met him on a social networking site and we became fast friends. My hubby and I even had the pleasure to have him accompany us to a business meeting, in which he kindly gave us a copy of his magazine J'Adore!! He is an inspiring, down to earth, humble young man that has learned to play the hand life has dealt him. Even if that hand was a "fold". Check out his magazine and a poem he wrote about being def and having tourette!

WELL SAID MY FRIEND!!

Several parts of me Alone. Many of you know I have Tourette and I'm Deaf. But I never told anyone really how I felt. This is it.

I scream, I hiss, I flail, I miss

I hurt, I maim, and I feel this

A hurt, a twitch, an internal dis

A loss of control, a nuclear near miss

I can't help it, Can't stop it

Can't undo it, can't block it

I can't restrain or refrain it

Can't train my body to contain it

Its built up, can't shut up,

like a faucet that's dripped up

Movements and vocals stay popped up

And through it all, I stand up

Can't stop me, can't contain me

I won't allow it to define me

It doesn't explain the real me

I'm quite sane, here is no insanity

You see the Tourette and think it's me

But is that all there is of me that you see?

Is my yelling indicative of my capacity?

Or is that all you can judge as my quality?

Silence, stillness, yet a static noise

The quiet, the irritation, yet a fake poise

Bearing derision, isolation, yet still making noise

Aloneness, tears welling, yet joking w/ the boys

The hunger for hearing, for understanding, and learning

Yet none stepped forward to hear my yearning

None wanted to learn a new way of communicating

with me, and so I was left wanting and hurting

Alone, quite bare and cold, left needing an ear, a hand

another soul who could understand, with hands,

my words. And the last sounds i heard was in some distant stands

on TV in a crowd gone wild. And here, I thought, alone I stand

Depression took me hard like a terrible earthquake

And to it, there is nothing I can quite equate

to the sadness that enveloped me whole, made my soul deflate

Nothing prepared me for a world of Deafness, a totally new state

I had to move away to find my world, a new world of silent words

it was "Fire" and "water" said with hands, pictures became words

It was first place in my mind, no where near a distant third

Being able to talk without uttering a single word

Months became years, and years piled on and on

yet my wanting, while on hold, had finally won

The road to finally getting my CI was one that was hardspun

on an axis delicately balanced, as if I carried a ton

And now that I can hear, it's not totally a clean sheet

Still with the triumphs and hardships settling beneath

I still struggle, day and out, without using a cheatsheet

Reading lips, saying "pardon?" and "Repeat please?"

My life is my own, and its not been easy

Still not, but life isn't for the queasy.

WHY??!!!

2010-10-21T21:55:00.001-04:00

Ok this disturbs me!! Not only the kids but why did the photographer even take this pic!! Why did he let it get out! Many would whoop their behinds, but that is not the only key. This isn't just learned behavior from seeing a rated R flick, this is a performed behavior. When teens are over sexed at 15, something happened at 12!! Don't get me wrong, I blame the media too, but we know this did not come from it alone. Parents, close your door, check out your new boyfriend that is taking your 4yr lil girl to the restroom!! Be more observant. We know children will experiment. They are exploring their bodies, things are happening to it that they don't understand. Talk to them before their friends and t.v does. I have an 8yr old and this pic makes me wonder should I have talked to him at 5?? Parents this is not acceptable! Stop letting the tv raise your kids! Promote school, career, marriage then kids! Give them love, because if you don't they will get it from someone else! Tell them sex is for married couples. Tell them. I promise they are listening. Example, my son could not understand how me and my brother have different fathers but my mom only married one! For a while he actually thought kids only came from married people. Great way to think but its not true. I had to destroy that utopia with the truth...every parents nightmare!!!

ARE YOU GAME??

2010-10-17T13:31:00.007-04:00

Ok friends and fam! I am doing a 90 day body challenge. Many of you are saying, "Tia, you do not need to lose any weight..maybe gain a few". lol. Thats exactly what I MIGHT do..gain maybe 7-10 vanity lbs. but more so..GET IN SHAPE! I need all the support I can get! Who's with me??
CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW!!

PS..Be on the look out for my before pic. If I have the guts to show my problem area. lol

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One of my VEGAS timeshares!! Wanna Go?

2010-10-11T18:40:00.006-04:00

I stayed at the GrandView Resorts in Vegas. If you are ready to get away and see the sites to Vegas or anywhere in the world for a great price...let me know!!! Check out where I stayed for my first visit to Vegas.

Me out on the town after the wedding!
My one bedroom timeshare in Vegas. You can stay here if you'd like. If not, I have other options for you!

Under the water falls on the resort.
One of the pools.
View of the resort from the bedroom.

VEGAS WEDDING!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-10-11T15:37:00.008-04:00

Sorry I've been gone for a while, but I just left Vegas!! I had a blast!! Celebrating the new nuptials of a good friend of mine of 10yrs!! I have soooo many pics to post...I wont do much talking. lol. Enjoy!!!!

The bride tasting the yummy red velvet cupcake! As you see sequence was our theme. It's hard
to make sequence look tasteful but we pulled it off well...don't ya think?!?!

Me at the bachlorette party!

At the restaurant we cook our meat on a hot rock.

The ladies and I in the limo!

Toya and the bride getting down at Haze night club in Vegas!

Getting ready for the big day!!!

Checking all last minute details for the reception in the suite.

It's show time!!!

Hubby and I at the reception.

The view from her suite.

The perfect cake for a princess!!

HOT!!!

2010-09-25T10:50:00.002-04:00

Do you have a business, website or event you would like to promote? Check out my signture. Everytime I send an email or forward, I am drawing much attention to my signature!! They might have a template you can use, if so, it's only $9.99 a month. If not you will have to create your own. It's a one time fee of $49 (no animation) if the template of your choice is not available plus 9.99 a month. One time fee of $100 (for animation) and $9.99 a month. This is a GREAT tool for marketing and promoting your business or events. You get two templates and you can put it on multiple emails! Check it out. Forward this to anyone wanting to promote with their signature!! Send this to anyone who has an event or business they would like to advertise. Be SURE to use the link at the bottom of this signature to get started!! FORWARD THIS GREAT TOOL!!!

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Watch what you say!

2010-09-24T17:53:00.002-04:00

‎7 things that are an abomination to the Lord includes anyone who "sows discord among brethren" Prov. 6: 16-19. Our tongues can be like a Swiss Army knife. So put the "knife" away and use your words to help and heal. -Joe Stowell
Lord, put a seal upon my lips,
Help me to guard with care
The things I say and swift repeat;
O tongue of mine, beware!- Bosch
Not only is HE watching but HE is listening to everything you say! EVEN THE UNSPOKEN!! Which to me, are the loudest words ever heard!

Managing Perception

2010-09-23T15:00:00.003-04:00

I have always managed perception without really knowing the term, or that I was even doing it. It wasn't until my recent business venture that I had become aware. As Regional Exec. of my business, I am to be a certain way. During our meeting I am to conduct myself a certain way. First off you need to be at every single meeting. Second, when you are there, you must be attentive. Take notes even if you know whats being said and you heard millions of times. Dress accordingly, and refrain from texting, talking, note passing or anything that is disruptive or considered a "bad look" for someone at the regional exec. position.

Rewind, I have always managed my perception. It was with the help of my hubby that I realized it. Early in my marriage 22 or 23, I was looking for my uncle and found him at a bar. I went in, spoke with him, sat, laughed and talked. There came a point when my cousin and I was asked to take a picture by my uncles good friend. No harm...we took the picture, not knowing that a HUGE crowd of thugs and hoodlums were standing and jumping in the pics as well. I never saw the pic but I know what someone looking at it would think. You definitely wouldn't think that I was a sweet, young married girl that didnt drink or club at all!! By stepping foot in that bar changed any perception of what I wanted to be viewed as. I am sure the photo threw it out the door as well. I am a wife and mother and christian. Also the daughter-in-law of an Elder at a high profiled church in Chicago. Because of that, there are certain places and things you will not catch me in or doing. I will not be in the clubs. I chose that way before I got married. Check out my real fist reason for not clubbing by clicking here(be sure to see the tragic video afterwards). Next, I started realizing that it wasnt a place for me as a married woman. No, not saying married women shouldn't be there, but I shouldn't. Everything that's at the club is what was associated with a single worldly person. The suggestive clothing, music, drinking and drugs and the inappropriate behavior of club goers. I have no interest in being associated with that kind of stigma.

Present day, and what this post is truly about, Pastor Eddie Long. Many say he didn't do it, it's not true. I'm not here to say either or. Nor will I voice my opinion on whether or not I think he did. What I will say is some pictures have surfaced, because I want to manage the perception that I am not judgemental or a basher, I will NOT post them. I will say that as a pastor, even though he was clothed, the pics that I found were pics that I think should never be sent to ANYONE! It doesn't manage the perception of a pastor.

In any event, this post was to shed light on how to conduct yourself and represent who you are accordingly. If you are a wild clubber, a modeled citizen, a law official, a christian.... ARE YOU MANAGING YOUR PERCEPTION??

Gone too soon!

2010-09-17T15:47:00.003-04:00

Just thought I'd give some recognition to some fallen African American stars who have gotten little to no fanfare/recognition. Did you know them, did you realize they were gone. Mainstream media didn't shed much light. But here in no particular order, just a few that I have remembered that made an impact.

(1974 - 2003)

Keven A. Conner, better known to R&B fans as Dino, lead singer of the group H-Town, was killed in a car accident on Tuesday.

According to Houston police, Dino, 28, had just left a recording studio and was a passenger in a car being driven by his girlfriend, 22-year-old Teshya Rae Weisent. Their vehicle was struck by an SUV that ran a red light and both Dino and Weisant were killed.

Three people were in the SUV and all fled after the accident. One man, Juan Diaz, was apprehended, however, and faces felonious charges of failure to stop and render aid.

Originally signed to a recording contract by 2 Live Crew's Luther "Luke" Campbell, H-Town rose to prominence 10 years ago with their debut album, Fever for Da Flavor, which spawned their biggest hit, "Knockin' the Boots." In an interview with the Houston Chronicle, Shazam, Dino's twin brother and groupmate, said the trio had just finished an H-Town reunion album. Their last LP, Ladies Edition, was released in 1997.

“Rhythm-and-blues singer Tony Thompson, whose body was found near an air-conditioning unit outside an East Waco apartment complex earlier this month, died accidentally while “huffing” Freon, an autopsy report released Friday shows.

Dr. Reade A. Quinton, a medical examiner at the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas, determined that Thompson, 31, died from “toxic effects of chlorodifluoromethane,” or inhaling a toxic amount of Freon.

Freon is a gas primarily used in refrigeration and air-conditioning units.

Thompson, a Waco native and former lead singer for the platinum-selling Waco quintet Hi-Five in the 1990s, was found dead outside an apartment complex June 1.”

See Orish Grindstead in this video Subway ft. 702- This lil Game We Play

Orish Grinstead (June 2, 1980 - April 20, 2008) was an American R&B singer and founding member of the R&B group, 702. 702 is best known for its 1999 hit song, Where My Girls At, but also had hits with Get It Together and Steelo. The group has sold over 500,000 music units worldwide.

Grinstead formed 702 with her twin sister, Irish Grinstead, her older sister, LeMisha Grinstead and her friend, Kameelah Williams, in Las Vegas during the mid-1990s. The group was discovered by actor and comedian, Sinbad. He used his influence to get 702 onto a popular talent show in Atlanta, Georgia. Grinstead and the rest of the group met Michael Bivins while performing at the show. (Bivins is a member of New Edition and Bell Biv Devoe, as well as the manager of Boyz II Men.) Bivins suggested the name 702 for the group in honor of the telephone area code of their native Las Vegas and became their manager.

Orish Grinstead left 702 early on to pursue a solo career. However, she often rejoined 702 when another member had to leave temporarily. For example, Kameelah Williams left the group on two separate occasions to pursue her own solo career, so Grinstead rejoined the group in her place until Williams rejoined 702. Orish Grinstead also rejoined the group in 1999 when her older sister, Lemisha Grinstead, took a temporary leave from 702 in order to have her son.

Orish Grinstead died on April 20, 2008, at the age of 27 from kidney failure. She had been suffering from cancer and other undisclosed illnesses.

Lead singer, Kenny "G-Love," Greene (pictured in the center) of the 90's group "Intro," died of AIDS complications in 2001.

Midwest rapper MC Breed, born Eric Breed, was found dead in Ypsilanti, Michigan at the home of a friend on Nov. 22 after suffering kidney failure. He was 36. Months before his death, Breed collapsed on a basketball court and was later rushed to a hospital where he was placed on life support due to kidney failure. He died days after doctors removed him from life support. Breed gained attention as an independent artist with a number of early 1990's albums, including MC Breed & DFC, 20 Below, The New Breed and Funkafied. Breed's career spans 20-years and 13 albums. He collaborated with various West Coast rap stars including Too Short, Warren G and the late Tupac Shakur.

Who can forget cotton candy cutie, Artimus Lamont Bentley who played Hakeem Campbell on Moesha. The Milwaukee native worked with silver screen heavyweights such as Danny Glover on the film Buffalo Soldiers before his untimely death on January 18, 2005. Bentley was killed in a single-car accident as he drove along Highway 118 near Simi Valley in southern California's Ventura County. A police report says his car veered off the road and over an embankment, ejecting him from the vehicle and landing him traffic where he was then struck by five cars. He was 31 and the father of two young daughters

Lyfe Jennings ft LaLa Brown video

In the days before up-and-coming R&B singer Yolanda Brown and her boyfriend and producer JeTannue Clayborn were killed in the north side recording studio where they also lived, it had been the scene of a burglary in which most of their equipment had been stolen.

Milwaukee police released few details after the couple were found dead on Friday inside Loud Enuff Productionz, in the 5500 block of W. Lisbon Ave., and have not announced any arrests in the case. Brown's family doesn't know if the earlier crime is linked to the deaths, but notes that cords and accessories for the stolen equipment were missing after the shootings.

While questions remain about why the couple died, what Brown's family does know is that she was taken from them, and the music industry, too soon.

Brown, 21, was featured on a recording and in a video by platinum-selling singer Lyfe Jennings and was considered his protégé. She performed on local stages but also toured with Jennings as more fans came to know her professional name LaLa Brown.

"It was going to pay off. We knew it was going to pay off," (READ MORE)

Hmmmmmm......

2010-09-14T18:24:00.002-04:00

Hmmmm...at first glance what do you think of this shirt? Looks like something I would wear to support our President. But read Psalm 109; 8-9. Be sure to read EVERYTHING before you wear it and support it. You know the best way to trick blacks is to put it in a book (i.e text). SMH!!!!!

30 day fast VIDEO

2010-09-14T15:13:00.002-04:00

Here's where the 30 day fast came from!!!! He spoke at our Evolv dinner and he's GREAT!!!!!

30 Day mental fast

2010-09-13T22:46:00.003-04:00

1, Devote yourself to reading something uplifting for 15-20mins a day.
2, Turn off the TV.
3, Turn off the radio.
4, No newspapers.
5, Associate with only uplifting people.
6, Drink lots of water.
7, Exercise at least 20 mins a day.
8, Reflect on the good that happens throughout the day/life for 30 mins a day.

Can you do this? Are you up for the challenge? What is your vice? Can you stand to change some things in your life? Do you want to see improvement in your mental state, your business, your thought process or just your life period?

Marriage??

2010-09-13T19:43:00.002-04:00

We all have our different take on marriage. Should it be traditional? Should it be old fashion? Or should it be WHATEVER the 2 parties want?

One thing I do know is many marriages go thru the same thing at the same time. It will be 11yrs for me in Dec. and the things I went thru during years 1-3 is similar to what a lot of my newly married friends have and are going thru. I was married first so I didn't have anyone to tell me what to expect or what fights/arguments were normal. I can now see what kind of fights and problems are normal and healthy. I came across this blog while surfing the blogs. Read it, it's deep. True or not, it sounds like this young lady has had her share of heart ache but appears to be really strong!!!!

My heart goes out to the Sapp family

2010-09-10T14:19:00.004-04:00

Prominent gospel music artist Marvin Sapp recently lost his wife, MaLinda Sapp, to colon cancer. The couple had been married for 15 years and they had three children. MaLinda was an administrative pastor at the church, Lighthouse Full Life Center, that they ran together in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Before she died, MaLinda was a college professor and licensed professional counselor. The following statement was issued by 92.1 Praise Houston about her death:

"It's with our deepest sympathy that we inform you that Pastor Marvin Sapp's wife MaLinda Sapp has passed on today after battling colon cancer. It was confirmed on the Lonnie Williams show today. An official press release has not been issued yet but more details will be coming on the Yolanda Adams Morning show tomorrow morning! Earlier this year, Marvin Sapp was testifying of how his wife, MaLinda, was given a clean bill of health by doctors after being diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer in 2009. But then, those health concerns resurfaced and Marvin Sapp requested intense, around-the-clock prayer."

Marvin Sapp's song, 'Never Would Have Made It' reached number 14 on the Billboard charts for R&B/hip-hop songs. He recorded with the group Commissioned in the 1990s before starting a solo career. The couple's three children are Marvin II, Mikaila and Madisson.

MaLinda Sapp was selected as principal of Grand Rapids Ellington Academy.

She's truly AMAZING!!

2010-08-11T18:50:00.002-04:00

You ROCK Yvonne!!!!!!!! Thank you for your support, leadership, friendship, guidance and being that ear I need when I'm feeling like I will lose it!!!

Yvonne Berry Presentation from BNO Productions on Vimeo.

A "SENIOR" moment!

2010-08-06T09:04:00.004-04:00

At the ripe age of 26 I had my first "senior" moment. I felt life was quickly passing me by and I hadn't done not one thing that I "truly" wanted to do. During this "senior" moment, I started remembering all that I wanted to do and the ages I had set to do them. I had a goal for the age of 26, I felt good knowing I had some more time to achieve it. Then I had an epiphany, "wait..how old am I?" I started to panic. OMG I could NOT remember if I were 25 or 26!! I had to remember how old my cousin was to figure out my age! Sad I know! Maybe it was stress! lol. But wait...it gets worse! That same cousin/bff is worse than I am!! I called to tell her that I didn't know her brother-in-law had recently turned 36 (according to his FB page). She told me "he ain't no 36!!". I was like "oh, maybe it's a typo". She said "cause Carl (her hubby and his brother) will be 31 this year." I started getting confused thinking. I know I'm not older than Carl. I just turned 31 in July..he has to be 31 now..close to 32. There was a period of silence due to my confusion. Then she says.."wait, cause I will be 31 this year so.....". I had to stop her right there. I said "cuz, you will be 32 in Dec." She was like, "What!!!!!!! I'm 31?" "uhh yes girl you are 31" I told her. She was like.."oh dag maybe he is 36 then!"

WE LAUGHED OUR HEADS OFF!!!!!!!!!!! Hopefully that will be our last senior moment til...uhh..say about..when we hit our seniors!!!

TRANSITION

2010-08-04T11:58:00.001-04:00

repost SEE HERE

Are you in transition? How do you know? If you agree that you are a different person than you were a few years ago, but have yet to arrive to becoming what you are destined to become, you might say you are in transition. Transition does not come easy or without regrets. For the most part, we aren't even trying to change, sometimes it just happens. The world spins just as life does and we are forever evolving. For those Faith believers, transition is a spiritual path. It's the journey of taking the road to Christ, and the steps in a positive direction. People of the world might not experience many levels of transition. For them it might stop and hault and a certain plato. But those of faith, our transition is never over. We are constantly moving, progressing, searching and hopefully getting closer and closer to the Kingdom of God.

But let's say your transition has not been positive, and you have been places you regret. You might want to go backwards and hope to start again. But you must remember, as long as you continue to evolve and move there is hope. It's when you are not in transit that should cause you concern. Keep moving and pressing towards the mark. Even if you fall a few steps, it's ok, dust off and keep going. No matter how many times you fall, I assure you, you are further ahead now than you were years ago. So embrace your transition. Keep moving towards the right direction. And if you are unsure of the path to take, stop and look at your map (Bible) for direction. For the most part, the correct path is the path less traveled. Remember many are called but few are chosen. So for your sake pick the best path for the ultimate transition!!

One of my MOST embarrassing moments EVER........!!

2010-07-11T23:42:00.001-04:00

(repost)

Ok, maybe it's good I didn't continue my singing/dancing/entertaining career, because I have found myself running in shame from some of my horror moments.

My city, the city I love more than any other..Chicago! Yes, my city had me trying to escape..lol.

Remember that cousin I spoke of? Well, we decided to take our singing to the next level.

We started taking vocal lessons, well I took 3. 70.00 per week, I couldn't afford at that time. So I started practicing what I was taught from my vocal coach and my high school friend Tamyra Gray.

Anyhoo, my cousin and I sang everywhere! Did nigh clubs (another embarrassing story), radio jingles and even was approached by managers and other groups that were interested in us!

We were on our way!!

So I thought.

We got the opportunity to sing live on a cable access channel. Yeah you know em, every city has that crazy cable channel that is low budget and usually are some kind of dance or talent show.

We were one of the groups who were to be featured on this show.

My other cousin was our manager (since she had the degree in Advertising/Marketing). We had one family member as our stylist for our hair and wardrobe..we were doing big thangs!

Tease was our name...not in a sexual manner but because we were Tia and Tanesha and to spell it T's was lame.

We practice our song by Faith Evans for weeks and had it down packed.

We arrive at the studio and we are greeted by a man like Jerome from Martin.

Yes, he was looking at us like we were a juicy steak!

He showed us around the studio and told us where we would be singing.

We asked him if we could use the restroom so we could practice and freshen up. He showed us the restroom and told us we were next.

"We're first?" "You're the only." "what?!?" "No one else showed up, so you girls have the entire 1 hr show."

Total fear and panic at this point. An hour show! Are you kidding. We shoulda known this would happen, after all this man was also the 1 of the 2 camera men, the sound guy and probably the janitor too for all we knew.

We are ready to sing. We look for the "3..2..1.." countdown. And we are on! Only thing is the sound guy screwed up our tape and it started in the middle of our intro!!! As we stand there looking aimlessly into the camera, I desperately try to play catch up.

That song wasn't the worst, well it wasn't for me. My cousin has a different opinion. My screw up came on a later song.

Now we are told we would have an interview. Oh lord. We sit with the man who is the sound man, camera man and now the host/interviewer. It didn't go well. Every time I spoke I got a lecture like a child and everything my cousin said she could never elaborate when more was asked. This interview was such a bust we were determined to take the spotlight off of us by telling him our manger/cousin also had a great voice. He licks his lips (she was also a juicy steak) and calls her on to the stage. Of course she gestured she was going to beat us up after the show. She never came on the set. Mind you the audience was filled with 13 people...9 of whom were with us!

Time for our second song. "His Eye is on the Sparrow", which we hadn't sung in months! A song I was just learning months earlier. The song was going fine until I thought it was over and put the mic down, only to hear my cousin ad-libbing more to the song. So I play it off the best way possible..pick up the mic and keep going. Now we are finally done. So I thought, she is still singing the song that should have been over by now. So here I am looking silly again by putting my mic down as if we are done.

Once it was finally over..the audience was to come and shake our hand while the credits rolled. Our family was not prepared to be on tv..as my other cousin slides and scoots sheepishly past one camera..another one was getting her every move! So we were all embarrassed that day.

Months later co-workers noticed me from that show. The show that we hoped no one would see being that it was aired on a hot summer July evening at 7pm. Why was anyone home anyway??

My cousin has successfully lost the tape and it will never be shown again!! Lord knows I hope!

I just revealed my embarrassing moment, and my cousin's...what's yours?

Who do you Credit??

2010-07-07T23:07:00.005-04:00

Looking back over my life, I can honestly say I had a very happy childhood and upbringing. I've always credited my mom for me being who I am today (and Christ of course). She was the one who taught me how to be responsible and how to always be a lady. She was there for everyone and everyone could count on her to be that ear or shoulder when in need.

But, during some recent inventory, I've realized that more than "momma" is responsible for who I am today. It took a village to raise this child!! ;) And now I'm a flower that has blossomed oh so nicely. Not tooting my own horn but toot-toot..lol

One of my aunts (Junie) was the firm hand. She was the one that told us straight up how it is. Not sparing any feelings and occasionally hurting a few to get her point across, but it was always followed up with words of wisdom and a bible verse!

Auntie Sheila and Uncle Donald provided me with my social experience. When I found myself without my sisters, I always knew that my cousins were there for me to play with. My very first friends came from that block, and most of us still talk today!! It was thru this fam that I met my husband! Uncle Donald was affectionately named "uncle daddy" by me at 3yrs. He taught me about men/boys and always gave me that male perspective.

So looking back, I credit a lot of people for my current values, good or bad. ;) So even while your past holds the key to who you are, it doesn't say who you will become. Your past doesn't predict your future unless you are driving forward while staying focused in your rear view mirror.

What if.....?

2010-06-25T11:50:00.002-04:00

What do you do when the life you knew was not the truth? What if at the age of 7 you found out that "daddy" was not your real father. You never knew anything about him and as a child were afraid to ask. However, on your 18th birthday your mom sits you down and tells you the whole story. She tells you that she had just ended a long relationship with her fiance and found solace in the arms of her old flame and good friend. She tells you that she found out that the "old flame" was living a double life and that he was married with kids! She had been the other woman and didn't know it until you were conceived. She told him she was pregnant and that she was keeping you and that his jig was up. She knew all about his wife and kids. The final blow is that she reveals is that only 1 family member knows who your real father is. Everyone including your step dad (the only father you've ever known) thinks you are the product of the ex fiance. Not knowing that the relationship with the fiance had dissolved almost a year earlier. For years you wanted to find him or know who he was. With some research you knew you could find him. Until one day you find out that for 7yrs he knew how to reach you but chose not to. You ask your mom if he had ever done anything for you and she said "a pack of diapers and $20", and she thinks it's only because she sent him a baby pic of you.

For years you've put it behind you. Not wanting to disturb his life or inflict a blow to his wife and children that he had a love child. However a part of you wants to know why, and see the other half of you. But what if you aren't accepted, after all he knew where you were for 7yrs. Not to mention the fact that the whole family might end up knowing the truth. What if you are called a home wrecker or what if you find out he's dead! Can you handle the what if's? What would you do? Search, or move on?

What MLM gives away $1 MILL!!

2010-06-15T20:32:00.004-04:00

1,000,000 reasons to take a serious look at an opportunity that WILL change your life. Many are in need of a plan B or an EXIT strategy. Why continue working for "him" and make "him" rich? Saving money does not make you rich, punching someone's time clock does NOT make you rich. Working from dark:30am to dark:30 pm does NOT make you rich. I was tired of not raising the kids that I gave birth to, and tired of my husband and I being like ships passing in the night!!! I NEEDED A CHANGE! I was ready to spend my time how I wanted to!!
How did Donald Trump, Sam Walton, Bill Gates and other Billionaires make their money? Not by punching a time clock but by I.E.O.P. (Incorporating the Efforts of Other People).

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Do you remember??

2010-05-31T12:27:00.002-04:00

Pause playlist for memory lane. Do you remember where you were and what you were doing when you heard these?
ALL TIME FAVS.. *sighs* The GREAT ole Days!!

Pause it again!! I can't help myself! This is the only safe music I have now!!

My Theme Song...

2010-05-31T11:56:00.004-04:00

PAUSE MY WONDERFUL PLAYLIST TO HEAR ONE OF MY ALL TIME FAVS!! SHARE MY MOMENT!!

Does anyone STILL love this song as much as I do? I can relate to all of it, except being on stage with 10,000 watching. My heart still cries when hearing it. It's like these are my words and he wrote it for me!!!! Not many are blessed to have this kinda love, nor be able to say they have felt this way about someone. If you have someone special (doesn't have to be a lover) treasure them!!!!

The Engagement!!

2010-05-26T23:22:00.006-04:00

I was sent this a few years back and every now and then fam and friends ask for it. I found it!! It is beautiful! I hope the couple is still together! All I can say is wow....what a man!! He truly loves her!!!!!

THE STORY

A couple in GA got engaged and the guy went all out and is now being recognized all over the U.S. for the love he has for his now fiancé. When you watch this you will want to cry. This is one more reason for not settling for less.

Imagine......... thinking you are attending your brother's birthday party, just to find out your boyfriend has reserved ten (10) rooms @ the Ritz Carlton...Upon entering each room a special letter is being read by someone special (in your circle of friends/family). Please take notice to the detail of each room, different color roses and some are laced in gold (breath taking).

I'm not sure how long it took this young man to prepare this surprise for her... But I'm very sure she was very pleased. This is off the charts and very romantic. Robert is a graduate of Southern University Q-dog) and is now an accountant with Home Depot at their corporate office in Atlanta. My understanding is that he financially footed the bill for this weekend himself. It was not supplemented by his parents. I was told that he moved in with his sister for approx. 6mos. and saved the money to pay for the engagement ring and all of the bells and whistles for this very special evening. A radio station in ATL was playing the song in the slide show and described what he had done and some men called in saying they had to step their game up. It actually touched a few of them because they admitted they didn't respect women on the level that he respects her.

SEE VIDEO HERE!!! PAUSE MY WONDERFUL PLAYLIST FOR THIS ONE!! :)

To see this AMAZING photographer's work, check out his blog @ Ross Oscar Knight Photography.

I needed a CHANGE!!

2010-05-19T22:03:00.016-04:00

In 2006 my life forever changed when I was diagnosed with MS. I knew that a change was coming and I'm not talking about Obama (ba-ding ching)lol. I knew that physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, my life had changed and I needed to do something quick. I started a check list of everything I needed in a new career. My new diagnosis had wiped out the only thing I'd done my entire work career. I no longer had use of my fingers to type (numbness and dead)and my vision blurring prevented me from driving. I needed to be some where close so that I can walk if my vision failed, I needed something with one day off during the week for doctors appts, low stress environment and minimum typing duties. GOD IS GOOD because I found just that!! I received everything I needed. However, there is no such thing as the perfect job if you aren't the BOSS!!! Within 7months that job turned into the exact opposite of what I needed. It became stressful, I had to work everyday and some weekends, the location moved, the duties got greater and my raises and bonuses got cut!!!

Then I joined a team that gave me all of that back, but this time it happened from home and I was the boss!!!

Multi-Millionaire Robert Dean has changed hundreds of lives through his company T.O.P.G.U.N Exp team. By teaching everyday people how to create a extra income full-time or part-time by contributing his tips and training. Mr. Dean and TOPGUN team have put us in a position to have success. His program is unified, his training is phenomenal, and his success is historical. Start learning from one of the industry's best teacher and motivator today. If you want to become a Millionaire, you have to start hanging out with them! Let's start by hanging with this one...

Who's rolling with me??
Keisha(left) Yvonne, my mentor(middle) me and Shonda!!
I love my ladies!!!!

Founder of EvolvHealth LLC Trey White.

Merged Homestore.com and Realtor.com in 1999 made it public IPO/$10 Billion market cap.
Chairman and creator of 4th largest producer of Ethanol (you pump his product when you pump your gas)
Chairman of a $500 million Disney styled theme park named EarthQuest currently under development in Dallas TX.
Trey is particularly known for his donations of gift baskets to terminally ill children & donations to local boy scouts and fire department and local charities. He donated over 50k bottles of Evolv water to Haiti and an undisclosed amount of money.

WE PACK THE HOUSE IN EVERY CITY!!!!!!!!

ATLANTA & DALLAS!!!

CHICAGO!!!!

ALABAMA!! (SOME OF MY GREAT TEAM!!)

CHICAGO COME OUT!!!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Time: 10:30am - 12:00pm
Location: Marriott Midway Airport Hotel
Street: 6520 S. Cicero Ave
City/Town: Chicago, IL

DETROIT COME OUT!!
MAY 21, 2010
Hyatt Regency Hotel
Fairlane Center Dearborn, MI
7:00 pm Presentation
7:30-8:30pm Training

DALLAS COME OUT!
SATURDAY MAY 29TH, 2010
10:00 AM SHARP!
5787 S. HAMPTON SUITE #402
DALLAS, TEXAS 75232

MARYLAND COME OUT!
BOWIE, MARYLAND
PER
SUNDAY MAY 23, 2010
4:30 PM SHARP
4536 HATTIES PROGRESS
BOWIE, MARYLAND

INTERESTED IN WHEN WE WILL BE IN YOUR CITY?? HIT ME UP!!!
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24hr info line 507-726-3821 CHECK US OUT HERE!!

It's All for a REASON!!!

2010-05-11T13:08:00.002-04:00

(repost)

Ever sit and wonder why you didn't get that job, that car, that man? Nothing is by coincidence if you are a faith believer. While we know God doesn't make everything happen, we do have to take responsibility for our own actions, He still allows things. And it is all for a reason. Many times that job, that car, that man are blocking us from our blessings. Something more, something far more greater, or sometimes just a lesson that is to be learned. Maybe we aren't old enough, mature enough or simply, not where we are suppose to be in our lives. We might not be able to handle what comes with that job, car, or man. Or also simply put, just for God's glory. Would you thank Him and praise Him like you should if He blessed you with that job, car or man? Aren't you more responsible, grateful and thankful today than you were a few years ago? Wouldn't you say you are more blessed now than you were a few years ago? Of course you are. And not by wordly things but just by being alive one more day. God knew you were more capable of handling the things you have now oppose to a few years ago. We are where we are suppose to be for a reason. Even the people that are in our lives are for a reason. And like I always say, IF YOU WALK AWAY FEELING YOU'VE LEARNED ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, KNOW THAT YOU'VE TAUGHT SOMEONE SOMETHING! Not all things are for your benefit. Sometimes it is just for someone else.
FOR MORE OF MY THOUGHTS...CLICK HERE.

Hmmmmm

2010-05-11T12:44:00.004-04:00

I, for so long have hid my feelings that I am starting to question what are my true feelings. I have come to realize over the last 2 years that I am a sensitive person. Not to the affect of crying, but in the aspect that those I love and care for can affect me easily. I have suppressed a pain for so long, that now when it comes up, I'm feeling that I'm just being dramatic or emotional. I never let it bother me before but now, it does. I sometimes truly don't know if I am being dramatic or maybe it truly does hurt. I don't deal with hurt much. I have been great at getting over it or ignoring it.

One of my loves is acting. I have sometimes questioned if I am truly feeling pain, or taking on one of the characters from my plays etc.

I do know that I don't allow myself to feel pain like I should. I beat myself up when I get hurt or even cry. I feel like I need to "just get over it" and "suck it up". Since I've been an adult, no one has seen me cry. My mom saw me cry 2 times since turning 20 and hubby might have witnessed tears 5-10 times..but that's not much considering we've been together since 97.

I guess the moral of this story is no matter how much you try to hide from you, you always will find yourself and the real you will always come out! Just wish I would've let me be me a long time ago. But hey, better late than never. FOR MORE OF MY BLOG AND THOUGHTS, CLICK HERE.

Do You Remember??

2010-05-11T12:43:00.000-04:00

I remember when we were so close

we talked all the time

You told me of your dreams and desires

You told me how lonely you were

How you wanted a soulmate

My heart dropped

I thought I were your soulmate

But I loved you sooo much

I brought love your way

You thanked me..

I smiled, I was happy

Your family grew and you had

beautiful babies

Oh how I loved them so

You hit a hard patch in your life

You lost your job, your marriage was strained

I hurt for you, I felt your pain

You cried out to me, I was there for you

I got you a better job, I made your mate more loving

This time you didnt thank me

You took all the credit

I'm loosing my dear friend and

I have to get you back....

That gift from your mate,

that was my idea and you only thank him

The mysterious bonus check and miraculous healing

All me.....

Do you remember that?

I cast satan out of your home and life

I healed your family

I got you that raise

I DID IT!!

Have you forgotten about me

I miss my friend

I'll never give up on you

JESUS

No one writes letters anymore?!?!?

2010-05-06T15:20:00.005-04:00

So, the other day I was talking to someone about how technology has robbed us of simple pleasures like writing letters. It's sad because our children have no clue as to what a letter and stamp is! I am determined to dig to find my last letter and plaque it, for it is a secret treasure.

Do you even know how to properly address a letter head? Are you knowledgeable on proper spacing and salutation etiquette?

Which leads me to this, (you know where I'm going don't you?) TECHNOLOGY!!! I was fine with the pager until a couple of decades ago when the cell phone became a demand. I am a simple kind of girl who does not like to be easily accessible. People knew that if I was not home, page me or leave a message. Nowadays, people can find anyone, anywhere, at anytime! Which messes up the old excuse "I'm sorry I didn't get your call". THAT SUCKS!! That excuse worked perfectly for me and I liked missing SOME calls (sad I know). All I ever wanted or needed was TTT (talk, text, take pics). However, now I will be one of the many millions who will be highly accessible. Because of my business I NEED to be reached at any time. So far, I love my team and I have yet to send anyone into voicemail. However I am sure there will be someone who is abusing my unlimited TTT. I marvel at the thought.

In a couple of weeks I will be a Droid girl. I'll tell you how I like it, but don't expect much! Till later,

Simply anti-technology,

Tia, from Tia's Real Talk

(update: When trying to find the proper image for this post, I was blocked by a virus saying I had spy ware on my PC...then I started to hear background noise coming thru my speakers!! Was that the hacker???? OH NO..I had to shut it down.)

Also............

(Guess what my son has for homework? He has to write a letter!!! The coincidence!! WOW!!)

HEAR MY CRY!!

2010-05-04T18:21:00.002-04:00

(repost, feeling it just as much now as I did when I wrote it)

REALIZE YOUR STRONGHOLDS

2010-04-23T18:19:00.000-04:00

My mom and I were talking about how we all have issues/strongholds that we need to take to the alter. Some of us may not know it or choose not to believe it but there is something in our lives that prevent maximum growth. It could be something as small as not following a task through or having too many tasks on your plate at once! Nevertheless we must realize what they are and work towards releasing it. It starts with taking self-inventory and wanting to reach your full potential. Next you have to seek the help/advice you need to accomplish and release, whether it be a friend, counselor, or pastor. The enemy finds a way to kill, steal and destroy all that's in his path. The smallest things could have the biggest adverse effect on you and how you handle certain situations. Waking up a noon everyday or skipping breakfast might seem small or unimportant, but those two things have negative strongholds that could be preventing your maximum growth and potential. The saying, 'don't sweat the small stuff', is not a quote you should follow in this case. It's the small stuff that satan uses to destroy or simply use as a weight in our lives. Make a change, sweat even the small stuff and realize what is your strongholds!

TRANSITION

2010-04-23T15:11:00.002-04:00

repost

Are you in transition? How do you know? If you agree that you are a different person than you were a few years ago, but have yet to arrive to becoming what you are destined to become, you might say you are in transition. Transition does not come easy or without regrets. For the most part, we aren't even trying to change, sometimes it just happens. The world spins just as life does and we are forever evolving. For those Faith believers, transition is a spiritual path. It's the journey of taking the road to Christ, and the steps in a positive direction. People of the world might not experience many levels of transition. For them it might stop and hault and a certain plato. But those of faith, our transition is never over. We are constantly moving, progressing, searching and hopefully getting closer and closer to the Kingdom of God.

24 hours

2010-04-23T15:09:00.001-04:00

If you had only 24 hours left to live, how would you spend it?
With family and friends? Getting back at someone who did you wrong?
Would you spend it in prayer, asking for forgiveness, righting all wrongs?
Would you weep, would you mourn? Demand answers? Kick and scream or embrace
it with open arms? Are you ready to leave this world and travel the unknown?
Are you sure of where you will end up when our Savior returns? How would you
spend your last 24 hours?

SHE'S A POWER HOUSE!!!

2010-04-15T20:33:00.002-04:00

Miss Yvonne Berry. How do I sum her up into words? She is a beautiful, talented, strong leader and woman!! She has groomed me to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Stepping outside the box! She is there no matter the time or place. Giving a helping hand, words of encouragement and a swift kick in the hind when needed. Check her out!!

HUMAN BEHAVIOR

2010-04-15T12:01:00.000-04:00

repost

While studying the human mind is not my profession, I still find myself paying very close attention to behavior. Body language and the tone of our voice speaks volumes, but most importantly words not heard are the loudest words spoken. Meaning there is more in what you don't say than what you do. We all know the famous line, "say what you mean and mean what you say". Unfortunately nowadays neither are done. However, you can find the truth in someone without them speaking a word. Are they looking you in the eyes when telling you something, are their arms folded while talking to you? Studying or paying attention to behaviors will answer the untold truth, especially if these behaviors are out of the ordinary for the one you know.

Child psychology is what is dear to me. Our babies are acting out trying to tell us things that their littler mouths or heads have yet to fathom. Before spanking, time-outs, or revoked privileges, see where their head is. Study why your child is behaving in such a manor. A 2yr old that is having a 1hour tantrum probably has nothing to do with that toy he/she can't have. Look a little deeper. Could it be the absence of a parent, or the arrival of a new sibling. What about the promiscuous teen that has been labeled a hoe? Could her being raped and not knowing her father have anything to do with her behavior? Everything we do is for a reason. So before you write them off, punish them or simply give up on them, pay attention to them. Remember the loudest words heard are the ones unspoken.

Home.......

2010-04-13T08:47:00.013-04:00

I have just returned home from Chicago. I can never get enough of going back there!! Good fam, friends, and business always makes for a great time. I do not know what it is about that city. Every time I go I want to go down memory lane. Hubby and I will stroll the lake front, or navy pier; all of the places that we used to go while dating. I have to get with my cuz for girl talk and the much awaited Chicago food!

I realized one year when I went without hubby and couldn't see all my fam and friends like I wanted to, that Chicago wasn't that great. It actually hit me that the people make the place. 17-21 were the best years of my life!! I fall in love all over again. Maybe it's because I miss those days. Spending every minute with my cuz and hubby. Maybe it's because Chicago is where I've met some of the best people ever, who are now great friends. Maybe it's because that is the city where I was finally able to spread my wings and get from under the constraints of my parents. I loved hard in Chicago, laughed hard in Chicago, cried hard in Chicago and met these ladies in that city!!!Angie (far left) Met her in 2000 at work. She started off being a close friend, now she is one of my best!! I love her dearly. We all came out to shop for wedding dresses. She's getting married in Vegas!! VEGAS HERE WE COME!! Not to forget TOYA who is taking the pic and miss Diva Joy, second from left.

Here we are again in 2000-2001. I was huge! Baby weight and Depo! (top) Toya, Joy, Angie (bottom) Grace and I. Wow, I can't believe I put myself out there like that!! lol

Hubby and I in 2000! We were babies!!! lol Your first real true friends are those you've met in elementary school. I've just found my best friends in this pic on facebook!! The best science projects, dances, crushes all in this pic. Can you find me??

For more of my blog, visit here.

Why do most lie?

2010-04-05T16:37:00.004-04:00

What prompts most to lie? Or better yet, why do you lie? If you say you have never lied, you are lying right there. lol

If you say you no longer lie, that I can believe.

When I am lied to I feel very hurt and betrayed. I take a lot of mess off of people. I am very laid back, calm, non-judgemental and very comforting to those who need me. So I could never understand why someone would ever feel the need to lie to me? Why?

I do not blow up, I do not have anger or attitude issues, so why can't I be told the truth? You can't possibly say you would be afraid of my reaction to the truth.

HEY, I CAN HANDLE THE TRUTH!!!!

I can't handle a lie. My hubby made a good point, he said people might lie to me because they are trying to protect my feelings or they don't want me to see them in a bad light if I knew the truth.

I understand but there is still no reason for it.

Do you want to come clean about a lie, you've told?

Why do you lie?

To visit my blog click here

Things that make you go hmmmm....

2010-04-01T12:30:00.002-04:00

How is it that Erykah Badu might not get charged for indecency because the intent was not for sexual arousal under Dallas law, but here in Ga. a teacher is facing 5years for an obscene dance routine that his students performed without his knowledge? WE NEED A CHANGE PEOPLE!!!!

March 6, 2006

2010-03-31T23:22:00.003-04:00

We all have those days we would never forget. For me, the birth of all 3 of my babies hold a spot in my memory that I can never erase.

One other day is March 6, 2006, my brother's birthday and the day that my life forever changed.

What was wrong with me? Why was I having so many problems with doing things that came so natural to me.

The touch of a hair brush felt like a porcupine, certain fabrics across my skin felt like sand paper. 6months of testing, vision evoked tests, MRI, CT scans and lumbar puncture or spinal tap. That was the worse, they go into your back a few centimeters from your spine and extract fluid. That actually wasn't too bad, it was the blood patch I had to get. That's where they pull blood from one part of your body to seal up the hole the made in your back because of terrible side effects I was having.

Laying in bed crying, wondering why? What did I do sooooooooo wrong? I was finally happy and now this! 6 months of not knowing anything.

But, on March 6, 2006 my doctor told me that all my test came back inconclusive. He had no clue what was wrong. Until he pulled my spinal tap levels. The levels were abnormal and he told me I had MS.

My heart is racing!! He starts to tell me of the meds I should try. All included shots administered by me!

I lost ability to drive, my babies faces were fading before my eyes, I gave myself shots every day for 3 months. Then I realized that God had a plan for me, and it was going to come through this diagnosis.

Thank you for listening!!!!

For other posts, visit my blog by clicking here.

EvolvHealth 2010 Summit in DALLAS!!

2010-03-29T15:27:00.017-04:00

My company EvolvHealth has officially launched in the US and Canada in only 5months, with other countries soon to follow!! I am promoting a healthier lifestyle, with financial security! We train in leadership and personal development. Letting people know that they are in control of their lives, and their time. We have been misled into thinking that a degree will get you the six figure income and the time to do what you want to do with you life. We train you, we teach you, we support you. When you Evolv your health, you Evolv your LIFE!!!WILL YOU EVOLV WITH US?????

Me on the EvolvHealth Carpet! lol

Some of my team in Dallas, I did NOT know I was in this pic!

Lovely ladies in Black.

Multimillionaire Robert Dean as the Terminator!!!

WE weren't the only ones interested in attending!!!

My girls and I with our mentor, TOPGUN founder/CEO/team leader multimillionaire Robert Dean!

Great leader and team member, Yvonne Berry!! They didn't have NOTHING on us!!!

My crew and I on the Evolv Carpet!

Nothing much needs to be said!

WHY I EVOLV'd

2010-03-21T13:53:00.004-04:00

I LOVE MY TEAM!! WE ROCK!!! LOL

24 hr info line 212-990-6777

Contact me.

update: This was a contest given by EvolvHealth. Out of the hundreds of submissions, our team won!!! GO YOUNGGUNS!!!!

Emotional Roller~Coaster

2010-03-06T00:38:00.004-05:00

The last few days there have been many tears.

Some for myself, and some on behalf of others.

I'm going thru so much right now that my heart is heavy,

my eyes are tired.

But yet in still, I'm happy.

I guess that's the signs of my emotional roller coaster.

Personal trials, and testimonies........

betrayal, abandonment, new life

success and dreams coming true!!

I guess I have enuff going on to say I am on an

EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER.....

2010-02-14T21:40:00.000-05:00

I do things most don't do, to have things most don't have. Set yourself apart from the rest. The key to your future is hidden in your daily routine. How productive was your future today?

PITY DATES!!

2010-02-14T21:00:00.004-05:00

Why do we do it? Why do women settle and go out with those who aren't worthy of our attention? Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we are God's gift. But why do we go out with men we do not like and have NO INTEREST IN??!?!

I was guilty of this way too many times. It wasn't until I met hubby that I stopped. That is why I stated in my last post that my marriage was a protection from something. I figured it out, a protection from dating loosers!! lol Don't get me wrong, they were all nice guys. But that was the problem, they were only "nice guys".

It took me a while to realize I deserved better than what I was letting entertain me. What I mean by "better" is not looks, but goals, ambition and character. The guys I dated felt a sense of entitlement because they had a cute face and money in their pocket.

My first pity date was a jerk!!!!!!! I was tricked!! He got my number when it wasn't meant for him. Then to top it off he was not nice on the eyes and he bought me lingerie the second time I'd seen him, on my birthday!! (the nerve)

Lesson to be learned, which is what I was taught by my mother...

"never go on a pity date, a man will be a man no matter what."

I guess I was expecting him to be nice since he had NOTHING else going for him! Here is what my first pity date looked like. NO LIE!!!!! lol

Guess the State?

2010-02-13T21:23:00.002-05:00

GEORGIA!!!! Ha...who woulda thunk it?

Unexpected life Changes

2010-02-13T19:46:00.004-05:00

I'm now the ripe old age of 30! I look back and I feel that there were a lot of things I thought I would do and have accomplished, and other things that I never saw coming. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. While I'm happy with my life, I am shocked by some of my choices and my decisions that have been made.
First and foremost, married?!? I said it would NEVER be me. I always thought I would have a boyfriend. I would let him spend the night over, and maybe even give him a drawer or two. But it was not going to be anymore committed than that. I saw myself as more of a free spirit. I would have a great career, and travel the world, with my girls and by myself. Don't ask me why I never had an interest in a love life. I was not the "male bashing" kind. I just wasn't interested. I'd noticed that the guys were always a tad bit into me more than I was with them. How did I always manage to find the clingy ones?
You could not have told me that I would met someone at 19 and know he would be special. I knew he would be the one, one day. That one day turned out to be the following year.
Married, with a baby, out of my parents home and living in another state all in 6months!
Where was that career and travel plans I had? Where did it go?
But as I look back, I realize that I am right where I am suppose to be. Me getting married young was my protection. My protection from the world. I have had many pity dates, went out with people I didn't like all for the sake of them being nice or not wanting to hurt their feelings. I've learned that that is dangerous and not a good thing to do!!! (I'll have to write about that disaster another day).
All in all, you are where you are suppose to be for a reason. Your plan for your life and God's will is very often on two different pages. Be grateful for the things you do not have because it is a reason for it.
Even though I didn't travel and get my career goals established before marriage and babies, but I can say now that I'm having the time of my life doing it all!! Even if it's not in the order I thought it would be.

Your actions influence the heart, not persuasion....

2010-02-02T13:20:00.002-05:00

Sometimes when we are in love we tend to try and make the other feel the same. But one thing we must realize is the more we try, and the harder we persuade, the further we will push them away. You win the Heart of your Lover by letting them go, by giving them the room to CHOOSE to be with you. Actions will influence the heart. What you do and do not do, will have a huge impact on the heart of your lover. The best way to get them to feel the same way is to let them know how you feel for them and then give them time to reciprocate the feelings.

DO NOT CHASE HIM LADIES!!

No man wants a needy, desperate woman. Don't you want a man that thinks of you even when you haven't called him? Don't you want him to pursue you more than you are pursuing him? If leaving him alone does not bring him closer to you then he wasn't the one for you from the start.

Leaving him/her alone will make one of two things happen:

OUT OF SIGHT OUT OF MIND

ABSENCE MAKES THE HEART GROW FONDER.

All in all, He that finds a wife finds a good thing. God will bring him/her in your path when HE has finished preparing him/her for your destined, pre-approved meet. Be patient, not desperate, do not settle and most importantly, WAIT ON THE LORD!!!!

Devil's Music........Hmmmmm??

2010-01-26T07:48:00.003-05:00

repost from 2008

Remember being banned from listening to certain music because it is "the devils' music"? Well finally at the ripe age of 28, I get it. From a biblical stand point we all know that Satan was kicked out of Heaven. We also know that he was the chief musician. Well he still is!!!! His powers were never stripped from him. He is still the chief musician. What is his goal? To lure as many people as he can away from Christ. The easiest way is thru music because once it's in you, it can't get out. With TV you can close your eyes, with words you can simply stop reading. But with sound, you cant stop it unless you don't listen in the first place. Think of how music has transformed over time. Some say the enemy tried to lure us thru heavy metal. When playing some songs backward it has hidden messages. One popular message was to smoke weed. Which is why weed was so popular amongst the hippies. However it did not lure us blacks. So now he had to come up with ways to get us. It is said that Bone Thugs-N-Harmony sold their souls to the devil for record sales. On their first CD cover they have witchcraft on it. A message written backward, and the only way to read it is to put it against the mirror. However once this is done you are speaking it into your soul. We know the tongue is powerful. Remember God made the heavens and earth just by speaking it. Did you realize one of Jay-Z mix tape says "murder murder Jesus" backwards? Or that one of Snoops early CD's shows him in the hospital bed dead and coming back to life with Jesus spirit? Or when Wu-Tang had an animation on the beginning of their website that showed the "W" symbol slicing the head off of Jesus and a black hawk sucking out His soul and flying it over and placing it into them? Or the fact that Missy and Snoop have said they make their best music high. Hmm I wonder why? I wonder why their music is sooo much better while high. Because it's not them they are working under. Jay-Z calling himself J-hova. Come on now. And we at the club and concert throwing our hands up to J-hova then turn around on Sunday and throw your hands up to Jesus? Not right. All of this was brought to my attention by a controversial minister name G Craig Lewis. Hip-Hop hates him! He has a 3 or 4 part series entitled "The truth About Hip-Hop". And he speaks to teens all over the world. He will be here May 18 at Harvest Tabernacle in Lithonia,Ga.
Check him out and look at this clip. I know many won't like what I have said so feel free to respond.

Please let me know what you thought.

2010-01-06T18:12:00.001-05:00

Don't forget tonight's 2010 Kick-Off teleconference! On the call...
• Hear why many top industry leaders have recently joined Evolv and learn their vision and goals for 2010.
• Special guest, and world-renowned speaker and former Olympian Vince Poscente will join us and talk about setting new goals and sticking to them.
• Hear from EvolvHealth CEO Brent Hicks on exciting new announcements for Q1 of 2010.
• Trey White, company Founder and Chairman, will finish the call, sharing his unique story from starting with nothing and what he did to build a company valued at over $10 Billion.
The call will be hosted Wednesday, January 6th, 2010 at 7:00pm CT.
To register, go to http://cts.vresp.com/c/?EvolvHealthLLC/bd43edd6c1/7bb64e0112/1c79e96333
Due to the large number of listeners, we are offering multiple call in numbers to be able to handle the listening population.
Choose any of the following numbers to dial into the call:
(712) 338-8186 PIN: 965055#or(507) 726-3200 PIN: 965055#or(218) 486-1400 PIN: 965055#
Feel free to invite your guests to this call to give them an inside look at where this company is going in 2010.
From everyone here at EvolvHealth, we wish you all the best in 2010.

What if.....?

2010-01-06T08:11:00.000-05:00

What if someone told you you could become healthier and financially secure just by drinking water? Well someone is going to tell you that, tonight 10:30pm EST 646-519-5800 pin 6809#.
Interested? Contact me.

What if......?

2009-12-20T23:58:00.002-05:00

What if you and your partner had been dating since college. You've always known that you two would get married and be together forever. Shortly after college you two wed and start a family. Everything is going great, just a few issues here and there but nothing to be alarmed about.

You are 40yrs old and 15yrs into the marriage when one day you meet a total stranger that made your heart skip a beat. It was a random encounter, you would see him/her often but never spoke. Until one day your paths crossed and just from a simple grocery store conversation you felt sparks! Yes, they are attractive but this is more than attraction. You haven't even felt this feeling for your spouse. You reluctantly race to the grocery store everyday in hopes of seeing him/her again. Unbeknown to you, she/he is doing the same thing. Conversation leads to dinner, and more dinners to follow. Before you know it, you are having an affair!!! You have never even looked at another man/woman before but it was something about him/her that was irresistible. It has been a year into the affair and you are realizing that it was not lust, he/she is the one. Do you leave your spouse to be with your soul mate? Or, do you cut off the affair and work on your marriage? You did promise, "til death do us part". What would you do?

He's Not that into You!!

2009-12-20T23:36:00.002-05:00

So I've finally seen the movie, "He's Not that into You" and it really had me thinking. I have listed a few of the myths below that the movie spoke of. I am asking the men and women, what do you think? Does it ring any truth to you?

1, If he gives you his number instead of taking yours, he's not into you.

I would kind of agree with this. This means he has no intentions on calling you. But there's exceptions to every rule.

2, If he says he will call you back but doesn't, he's not into you.

To me, this one is tricky. If he fails to call you back often then I would agree, he's not into you. But I wouldn't say that if he forgot once or twice that it meant he didn't like you, maybe he's just "busy". lol

3, A man that tells you he's not into marriage and he doesn't need a piece of paper to tell you he loves you, is not into you. Do men really think this way?

I agree. I feel that when that man finds the right one, he will race to make her his. If he dates you for 10yrs, my guess is he doesn't plan to marry you.

Things that make you go hmmmm....

2009-12-20T14:05:00.002-05:00

Can a blind person see their dreams?

Can a person with no eyebrows be surprised?

Can a person with no fingers point me in the right direction?

If a child leaves home in a wheelchair, are they still considered runaways?

Why do you park in a drive-way and drive in a parking lot?

Can a deaf person hear that "inner voice"?

Don't you need a VACAY!!!!

2009-12-18T15:18:00.002-05:00

PASS IT ON TO ANY AND EVERYONE!!!!

Check out my exclusive offer to you for being a timeshare holder!!!

Orlando

:3days 4nights in a 2bedroom 2ba villa

:resort amenities: (2 spas, bar, restaurants, shopping, golf, game room, lazy river, massage, and much more...inquire about my pics of the Orlando resort)

:Book by Feb 20, and you will get 2 tickets to your choice theme park, OR $100 gift card for food and beverage.

:All for 199 plus tax. You must hear presentation to get this deal! (it was a tour and I liked it!) You listen to BS all day anyway so you can do it for a $199 trip. lol

Myrtle Beach

:3day 4night 2bed 2 ba suite or hotel if you choose

:Resort amenities (massage, bar, in door and outdoor pool, sauna, kiddy pool, private access to beach, and more)

:2 tickets to medieval times or 2 tickets to the Caroline Opera.
:Must listen to presentation/tour to get offer at discounted price.

Starting Jan, I will have 5star accommodations, domestic and international.

NO PRESENTATION!

Call Gratia for questions or to book. 888-636-6522 ext.4574 Gratia (pronounced gree-sha) She knows me by Lakeisha LaFayette (file # 6085161) Tell her I sent you. Be sure to give the file number.

My Hawai'i Vacay!!

2009-12-18T11:08:00.005-05:00

Hawaii is very expensive. Do not go there with a few hundred dollars. One activity can run you 200! Have spending money of 500+!! I have wayyy to many pics to post so just check out my facebook link to see them all. I had a blast!! Starting Jan. I will be able to get 5 star hotel or resort accommodations, domestic and international at discounted prices!! I must recommend Hawaii first on your list.

The memories!

2009-12-01T15:05:00.002-05:00

(pause my playlist, bottom right sidebar)
Are any of you old enough to remember this song? What memories come to mind when you hear this? Can you think of where you were when you used to listen to this? I was always in the car with my aunt or listening to the radio. I don't even want to reveal how old I was. Ahhhhhh I love this song!!!!

Need a Vacay!!!! Read what I can offer!!

2009-11-25T17:59:00.000-05:00

For the upcoming season, the Orlando Vacation package can be a great gift whether you purchase it for your family or your friends purchase it for their families! They will receive 4 days and 3 nights in a two-bedroom, two-bath villa (up to 8 people) at Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort* in Orlando, FL for only $199 plus tax! – PLUS Reserve by February 20, 2010 and they receive 2 one-day tickets to the theme park of your choice or a $100 food and beverage gift card! They have up to six months to travel once you purchase the package! Also, we have Myrtle Beach packages available and we’ll be happy to customize any package to specifically meet their needs!

Look into my Eyes (repost)

2009-11-24T14:30:00.002-05:00

Off and on throughout my life, I've dealt with insecurities and the feeling of self-consciousness. I now am able to see that all the things I was insecure about or self conscious about are no longer a factor. Not because I feel confident about these plagues, but because I know who I am in HIM and whose I am. It is not important at the end of the day. So I've learned to just be happy in the skin I'm in. I have grown content with my issues. I still have them, but they no longer have me. Today I was hit again with them, but the love of GOD quickly helps me to cope. Here's what I wrote in my time of pain.

If you look into my eyes

you will find a young lady who has the ability

to laugh hysterically and cry uncontrollably

all in a day

You will find the jokester and life of the party

amongst her circle

Look into my eyes and you will find

I'm a mother, wife and friend

someone who puts others before her

loves those who angered her

befriends those who are different from her

brings those to tears in laughter

warms hearts with compassion and sincerity

but look a little deeper

You will find a young girl who still seeks approval

who's pain is deep and tears are shallow

but look a little deeper and you will find

the contentment of my present

the excitement of my future

the pain of my past

look a little deeper and you will find a young lady

who loves people

but wants to be alone (still tryin to figure that one out)

you will see a mother, wife and friend

deal with the curses of MS daily but ignore it

and keep it moving

you will find someone who will love so hard

til' it hurts

who has dealt with her own insecurities

not big enough, not tall enough and yes

not dark enough

Looking into my eyes will tell you

where I've been

the path I've followed

and pain I've endured

but look into my heart and you will find

where I'm headed

the happiness I' ve felt

and the journey I'm seeking

Look into my eyes......

My Chi-Town Stories....scary and sad!!

2009-11-24T11:39:00.002-05:00

Scroll down and pause my playlist to the right!! Let me hear your voice blogspot!!

Comment | Copy This

At Peace

2009-11-19T07:29:00.003-05:00

6 years ago yesterday, Nov. 18, I lost my nephew to violence. He was only 22 at the time. God gives us peace in different ways. HE helps us to cope in whatever way we can, just to get through. Read how God worked with me in my nephew's guestbook. It was written for his birthday last year.

May 25, 2008

Ok, I thought time heals all wounds? That statement does not hold true for me. I thought the only pain I would endure was the pain of knowing you are not here. However, that pain has now magnified. Not only are you not here, I'm still in shock and confused. True the needle stick is not as painful, but the depth of it hurts all the same. I shed another tear for you last night. I remember when I first heard the news it was surreal. Unbelievable. 2 weeks before the funeral I had 5 dreams that you came back!! And for whatever reason it gave me comfort and peace. In my own warped mind, I thought it would happen. Seriously. I looked forward to the funeral because I didn't believe it. The sunday before the funeral I was at church hearing about the ones in the bible that were raised from the dead. I held on to that, just knowing that would happen. During the whole funeral I kept saying, get up! Get up! I couldn't pay attention to the service because I just knew you would get up. Praying and hoping that God would give the pastors power to make you get up! I told God if you did, I would not be afraid and that HE would get all praise and worship. But at the burial it hit. This was for real. You were not going to get up. That was the first time I almost had a panic attack. I think a part of me was loosing it. I still had dreams once or twice a month that you came back, and you were telling us how you felt different, and you were hungry. We were all hugging you and thanking God you were back. I had to get a grip. I prayed and asked God what does these dreams mean. The same kind of dream. I got peace when I realized that you were ok. The happiness and cheer we had when you came back, is the happiness and cheer that is happening for you in heaven. I have peace that you are ok. Not to worry about you. And the minute I stopped worrying, and came to that conclusion, the dreams stopped, the weekly tears stopped. God was telling me something. You will GET UP! We will see you again and it feels right around the corner. Finally my heart is at peace and I can rest. I will see you again!! I love you more than you knew.Weeping my endure for a night but joy comes in the morning!

Love Tia

Loud Silence

2009-11-13T09:09:00.002-05:00

The loudest words spoken are the ones unheard

The ones that start with a kiss and end with a hug

The look in your eyes, the touch of your embrace

Nothing much has to be said, your spirit speaks volumes

Your silence is loud, your look is deafening

I hear your touch

I hear your silent tears

I hear your pain

While your words are kind and loving

Your silence is passionate,

Your silence is fearful,

Your silence is love

From your silence I can see your heart

No words are ever needed, I'm listening to your heart.

Hmmmm

2009-11-13T08:59:00.002-05:00

I've gotten some hate mail from a certain reader telling me if I don't post, I can no longer stop by his page. How rude!! But I know the truth!
I've started to realize maybe I'm not the writter I thought I was. I have 5 drafts from things I would start and were unable to finish. I need motivation!!! Inspiration!!!
I think when I was hurting I had a lot to say, but now that I'm happy, nothing! lol. I'm starting to realize that I am an emtional writer. I can get down when it's dear to me, but if I can careless, it starts to show in my writings, or lack there of.
This was just a lil something to let my blog fam know that I have not left, I'm just in a blank moment right now.
Ok, I challenge myself to write even if I have nothing to say. Let's see what happens. You asked for it!!!!! lol

FRENEMIES

2009-07-30T23:54:00.000-04:00

If one more talk show or morning show speaks of this, I just might blow my roof! Frenemy is a friend who acts more like your enemy. (enemy in friends clothing)
The different levels of frenemies:
The black hole- always negative, nothing positive to say.
Queen Me- Will always change the story to make it center her.
Unfriendly Competition- Anything you can do I can do better.
Gossipy- The town crier, sinister, gossips to make you look worse than her
Comments of a Frenemy
"You look tired" A way of telling you that you look a hot mess!
"I saw your boy friend and his new girl she sooooo pretty she looks like model"-
"I'm sorry you feel that way, A half a** apology
"Those shoes are soooo you"-You would say thank you till you realize, this isnt really a compliment
I befriended someone like this before. She was the unfriendly competitor. If I got honey blond streaks she'd die her hair platinum. If I get a cute new boyfriend, she'd get 2!

Do You have any frenemies? Do any of these sound familiar? Put em on blast or just share your experience.

"Mind your business couch"(flashback)

2009-07-30T23:48:00.001-04:00

My 3 and 9 yr old boys have nose issues. They are the nosiest pair of children I know. Whatever happened to children being seen and not heard. Pullleeease!! They have no problem saying, "what was that", "who said that", "what happened" etc. Mind you, all those questions were never geared towards a convo they were in. My 9yr old is the worst. He will stand over my shoulder while I text, ask "who was that", once I'm off the phone and a ton of other "not your business questions".
One time a guy in the car in front of me was waving at me thru his rear view. Do you know my 9yr old (then 5) said, "mommy why was that man waving at you?" Are you kidding me. I was blown away.
The straw that broke the camels back was when I was trying to have a very discreet convo with my mother and that 9yr old yells from another room, "what?". I look around confused. He says, "mommy who's going there?". I had had enough. I told him to sit on the new "mind your business couch" until he learns to mind his own. It works great!
Taking away play stations and threatening whoopings don't work. But it's something about sitting all alone for no specified time that kids hate! Now all of my nosey kid visitors know the "mind your business couch". Niece and nephew. They actually catch their tongues now. Just be sure to not forget that they are on there like I did my 9yr old for an hour. He missed play time and had to go straight to bed..hahaha
If your child has nose issues, sit them on the "mind your business couch".
I threatened to put my hubby on it for 20 mins but that didn't work.

Tru Sista?(repost)

2009-07-27T10:18:00.001-04:00

Am I less of a sister because I'm light?

You think because I blend in a little better

everything for me is alright?

I might not look like you

not dark enough to be black

or hood enough as a matter of fact

but "they" know I'm not one of them

So where do I stand?

You might be hated by the white man

but I'm hated by you

My sista

the one who shares my pain

I thought the field and house negro

was all in the past

After just celebrating MLK day

we are still far from free at last

Just remember, I am no less of a sista

just because I am bright

I am fighting the same struggle,

fighting the same fight

the only difference is

my skin happens to be light

But, I am STILL a SISTA!

My story of MS

2009-07-15T14:42:00.002-04:00

The doctors told me I had MS on my brothers birthday. March 6, 2006. At the beginning it was terrible! The tests, were awful. Spinal taps where they go into your back to get fluid. Risky and painful healing.

Faith is what keeps me going and gets me through. I feel the best now then I ever did. In 2000 right after I got married and had my son I lost central vision in one of my eyes. I had peripheral vision in that eye but not central. I thought it was stress at that time and the doctors associated it with my migraines that would happen over the same eye. It happened again years later after my second son. That's when I knew something was wrong. Then I started getting blurred vision and my fingers and toes were numb. Couldn't feel anything. Could grasp anything. My scenes of touch was heightened. A hair brush felt like needles! My leg gave out on me at work and I almost hit the floor. It had attacked my muscles. I had to walk with my knee locked and not bend it because my knee was not strong enough to push off on. I went though a major transformation spiritually and I can say I have NEVER had that issue again. I had to stop working because I could not type!! Now I'm back to 48 wpm so GOD is good! I still have blurred vision if I'm stressed and numbness in my feet but that's it. I will tell anyone and everyone about my story because it is not for me. My story/testimony is for someone Else!!!!!

All if this is my past, my present is great and my future is brighter!! God is my healer and master physician!! I am brand new threw HIM

Science say "MS" but GOD says "TESTIMONY!"

2009-07-15T14:14:00.002-04:00

Well in case you all didn't know, my life forever changed on my brothers birthday 3-6-06. I was diagnosed with MS. MS is a condition that attacks the nerves in the body. It eats away at the protective cover called Myelin Sheth (like insulation on a wire) and exposes the nerve which cause many symptoms when exposed.
Back to the story at hand. I went through many tests, some painful. I've heard everything from : "you won't walk normal again", "you will get worse", and many other negative ungodly things. I have experienced vision loss, muscle weakness, and numbness in my extremities.
But the minute I heard, "you have MS', I knew there was something I was suppose to do. My life finally had purpose and a meaning that I could actually put my finger on. I am here to give God glory as well as lead as many people as possible to Him thru this story.
I had faith that God was going to do somethings for me. My faith was that one day the spots they saw on my MRI will be gone by the next one. And it was!! I said by March/April my vision will be at the point where I will drive confidently. And it is!
God is working with me and I can not let His works go in vein. I know that God didn't do this, He allowed it. He knows I am strong enough to endure it or He would not have allowed it. I know that this is for His glory and His glory only. I know it is to bring me closer to Him as well as others. Might sound crazy to some but this is the best thing thats happened to me. If I were weak and fragile would I have such a trial? Would I be able to endure the pain? No. All of my pain, trials and tribulations says that I am strong! And that this is only a testimony in the works.

Yes science says MS but God says Testimony!

Is your spirit in conflict with God? Is your world in contradiction to God's word? Is it in direct contradiction to God's plan and word He has spoken over your life? Are you or someone you know in a similar situation, science vs God? Or any testimony you would like to share? Please post your story or comment here!

Look into my Eyes (repost)

2009-07-05T12:16:00.000-04:00

If you look into my eyes

you will find a young lady who has the ability

to laugh hysterically and cry uncontrollably

all in a day

You will find the jokester and life of the party

amongst her circle

Look into my eyes and you will find

I'm a mother, wife and friend

someone who puts others before her

loves those who angered her

befriends those who are different from her

brings those to tears in laughter

warms hearts with compassion and sincerity

but look a little deeper

You will find a young girl who still seeks approval

who's pain is deep and tears are shallow

but look a little deeper and you will find

the contentment of my present

the excitement of my future

the pain of my past

look a little deeper and you will find a young lady

who loves people

but wants to be alone (still tryin to figure that one out)

you will see a mother, wife and friend

deal with the curses of MS daily but ignore it

and keep it moving

you will find someone who will love so hard

til' it hurts

who has dealt with her own insecurities

not big enough, not tall enough and yes

not dark enough

Looking into my eyes will tell you

where I've been

the path I've followed

and pain I've endured

but look into my heart and you will find

where I'm headed

the happiness I' ve felt

and the journey I'm seeking

Look into my eyes......

Wanna Taste (repost)

2009-07-04T11:07:00.001-04:00

This is Crown Fountain at Millenium Park. It's a great place for children of all ages! The faces are of local Chicagers. Hope to see you here in 09!

Take a look at Fantasia and Jennifer Hudsons performance and the fireworks grand finale!

"> During The Taste, vendors and patriots come from all over Illinois to advertise their restaurant or just simply eat at The Taste. It is great advertisement and exposure and the variety of cuisines are great! Take a look at the massive crowd! I always have a hard time coming back to Atlanta after this event. It doesn't compare.

The Chicago Tribune did a preview of different foods at The Taste of Chicago. Outside of the regular pizza, corn on the cob, turkey leg, shrimp etc, they previewed a few of the more exotic non traditional foods. Click the link to check some of the dishes out.
http://www.truveo.com/Around-Town-at-the-Taste-of-Chicago/id/3749532817

HEAR MY CRY (REPOST)

2009-07-01T22:22:00.001-04:00

2009 Starting out to be a gr8 year (flashback)

2009-06-30T20:51:00.002-04:00

I am so nervous. I can't believe I am finally going to do this. This has been my dream for the last 3 years. The line is getting shorter, and I'm up next. I adjust the mic while looking into the crowd of people. I begin.

"First giving honor to God and pastor. You know the Lord works in mysterious ways. I was just telling my husband that I am coming here expecting something. But never in a million years would I have thought that I would be here, standing in front of all of you. For 3 years I tried to get my story out. I needed to get it out. I needed to spread the word. I wrote emails, blogs and was even told I should write a book. But none of it gave me the satisfaction of being here right now. 3 years ago on my brother's birthday March 6, 2006 I was diagnosed with MS. My fingers and toes were mute. I had no feeling. Some days I couldn't get out of bed. I couldn't make my baby's bottle. But I knew God didn't give me these 3 beautiful babies to not be able to see them or raise them. I was told that I had to take medication or I will be in a wheelchair. For 3 months I injected myself daily with my therapy medication. My spirit wouldn't let me continue it. I had dreams and I had to stop. My faith wasn't strong enough to claim my healing but I said, "the next MRI will not show that lesion" and this time last year it was gone. But you know doctors always downplay God. They told me that that's what lesions do, they come and go. But I knew better. I have been going to this church for 2 yrs and this is the first time I was able to see the pastors face clearly. For the first time I didn't get dropped off at the door, I walked across the parking lot. Pray my strength in the Lord."

The congregation stood to their feet, giving God a much deserved hand and mouth praise. I did it. I accomplished my dream of telling how God worked in my life to 100's. That night was better than any party or club the New Years' has brought before. My eyes were red, throat scratch and head pounding. I had been changed. I left that place 4 hours later meeting a few people that my story touched. I left 4 hours later not the same as I had came. God moved in that place and now the real work begins!

I hope 2009 brings you all peace, happiness, love and prosperity! I love each and every one of you!

Be Blessed,

Tia