I'm Running On Low Today!

A few days ago, my little one (Captain) ran into the kitchen and said "mommy mommy i saw a mouse" in an excited way. As if he had found it, killed it and had it in his hand (lol) I did not believe him but there was a small part of my that did. I brushed it off. Just goes to show you, we must listen to our kids. Anyhow last night my two older ones, Kirk and Keeno came into my room all excited and said, "mom, you know that mouse that Captain said he saw? We just saw it and tried to get it but we don't know where he ran off too." NOW I WAS UP AND SCARED TO DEATH! I said a bunch or things; Get it, Kill it, how did it get in here, this house is so clean and it's bran new...ohhh myyyy...ohhhh myyyy....and can't remember the rest. I got out of bed and ran downstairs to see where they saw it.

Let me tell you this, i would never imagine a mouse would want anything to do with a "clean house." I mean why would he/she/it? There is nothing to munch on, on the floors or dirty corners to hide in. But, much to my surprise, because we live in a bran new complex that is still under major construction, apparently the winter days are too cold for these little buggers, so they run in for heat through open cracks or holes.

Okkkk, i have not slept all night. I am totally running on LOW today. I could not stand the idea of having that bugger all up in my space! Like nooowayyy!!!! I woke up, drove Captain to school and headed straight to Canadian Tire to purchase whatever trap kills these guys FAST! I bought 5 packs of "stuff" and when i came home, i did not even want to touch the traps. I woke up my son Kirk, and made him do it. He stood there laughing at me. One of the traps that came in a pack had 4 individual traps in it. It's the cardboard's with the sticky glue on it and when the mouse steps on it, he gets stuck and dies. Now my only problem is, i will see it dead on the board. Oh goodness. The other ones are the regular traps.

All i have to say is, it better hurry up and get caught or i am calling the pest control (lol) Oh what a day. I am sitting in the dining room listening out for it (lol) I can't believe i am so afraid of something that is the smaller then my pinky finger. Ohhh boyyyy......

I Got Excepted

I have thought about blogging about this or NOT blogging about it. But then after i prayed and gave God thanx, i decided "it's ok"

Lately i have had the urge to foster another child, only i want a girl this time. I have always fostered boys at home, and i felt the need to make a difference in young girl's life. I feel i have so much to offer a girl. Besides i always wanted a daughter :-))) Maybe God never wanted me to have "one just like me" as my dear mother would put it. My sister and her husband filed to be foster parents a few weeks back and got excepted. I was and am so happy for them. They are going to be such an inspiration for that young girl. Perfect role models. It is the most rewarding thing a person can do.

After much research into the company, i decided to call for a "home visit." When they got to my house, what was suppose to be one hour ended up more then 2 hours. We laughed, chatted, shared stories and laughed some more. It was so uplifting. To my surprise, after sharing a bit of my world with this lady (who has been doing home visits with foster parents for 32 years)  she looked at me and said, "you are one of the bravest and strongest ladies i have ever met. I feel blessed to be sitting here with you." I shared my website with her, my blog, my Project Blanket videos, my work  and volunteering that i have done with youth and more. But above all, it was MY STORY that had her speechless. She could not understand how i got so  much done, after having gone through what i did with my childhood, my teens, my twenties, being a single mother, the love for my children and of course my divorce (which i don't talk about here).

I got excepted and start my training along with my sister in Jan. I told her i would love a "girl" and she believes i have a lot to offer a girl. Many of the girls in care, have been abused and she believes i can offer a lot to help her get passed that and live out her full potential. I believe so too.

Lately i have been very emotional. I think a lot of it has to do with the holidays and our Project Blanket.
I don't believe Christmas is about presents. I believe it is a time to share with someone something you have. Be it time, words of wisdom, your story, God, a meal or maybe just to tell someone how much you love and appreciate them. This life i have is not about ME. I have been chosen by God to make a difference in this world. My dear friend Ernie told me a quote this morning that touched my heart, "If you can't feed a hundred, then feed ONE" Mother Teresa.
 
BE A WOMAN AFTER GODS OWN HEART!

End this year with a positive MOVE! There are a million ways you can make a difference. Please do it!

Thank You God for Choosing Us!

Yesterday was one of the most beautiful and fulfilling days of our lives (Ernie and i). We were up late the day and night before; collecting donations and preparing food. We laughed, cried and laughed some more. We were fortunate enough to have a dear friend of mine Dalley and his mother join us.

 Dalley & Ernie

This is Dalley's second year with Project Blanket. Both last year and this year he offered to bring all the donations in his van, not only did he do that, he was in no hurry to leave. His mother (God bless her soul) helped us prepare sandwich's and snacks for our dear friends downtown as well. It was amazing. We woke up early and hit the road. We all met at my house.

Ains (our camera friend) was right by our side the entire time. From the day and night before to the DAY OF for the entire day. He was truly God sent! What a friend.

We hit the road just after 8am. When we got downtown, much to our surprise, there was already a lot of people outside the shelter. We had a few friends meeting us; Nicole Stiletto along with Al and a few other wonderful ladies.

Our new found friend (in the middle)

We got started right away and believe it or not we stayed all day. We had so much fun. Even when there were only a few people out there after our many rushes, who decided to just hang out after they were fed and clothed. I didn't want to go home. Ernie and i would have stayed all evening.

These people, both men and women are REAL people with a REAL story. They are beautiful. They have soul in their eyes. They were so happy to have us there all day. Many of them mentioned they have never seen anyone stay out there for so many hours. We barely noticed the time go by. There were a few stories that i brought home with me and laid in my warm bed with my warm sheets and duvet and cried my eyes out just thinking about them. If i could have, i would have brought them home. All i want in this life is to be OK; Enough to help in the little i can. My dream one day is to own a women's, men and children center called "The D.e.v.a In You Club"

We seen a few people come and go with sandwich's and even hot meals. A newly wed couple came with a trunk full of food containers and explained to me that the ladies get together early in the morning at the mosque and prepare the food. She said the children come out to the mosque too and it's like a big family affair. God, it's so amazing to see that people like this exist. Then another lady and her husband (again) came and handed out socks and sandwich's. My heart was so uplifted to see this.

Here we are with another found friend in the middle

I just want to say THANK YOU to all the people that donated. Thank you for the monetary gifts as well. Thank you to all our volunteers. Many of them were Ernie's friends and believe me, you were so appreciated.

Next year we are hoping to make it bigger; with HOT meals or frozen Turkey's for the areas near by the shelter. We are praying that God will bless us with wonderful people in our lives who will help us to make that happen.


Thank you and stay tuned for the footage. We love you!

Project Blanket Drive for The Homeless

Good morning to all my friendly bloggers and readers. This is a reminder that the annual Project Blanket Drive for the homeless is this weekend. We are doing our runs tomorrow to pick up any donations and also to stop at Value Village to purchase items.

Please make a monetary gift as little as $5 to $10 to our email at projectblanketdrive@gmail.com
Every bit counts. If you have donations such as blankets or coats, please let us know and we will arrange a pick up spot or you can also drop them (that does not matter) off to us. It is up to you.

Last year we collected hundreds of items and made many trips downtown to drop them off in person to our homeless friends. My friends, this is such a serious problem in the GTA. Most people don't want to think about it but we need to face it and do what we can to make a difference. This area downtown is dear to my heart because i grew up on those very streets watching drug addicts and dealers, prostitutes and homeless people give their souls away for whatever reason and all they want to see is a little bit of hope. The world has given up on these people, but i have NOT! So please join forces with me and make a difference.

Here is a clip Ernie and i created from last years journey. We record this so that you can all see how serious it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMYjxjGn_8g

Again if you have any monetary donations please email us at projectblanketdrive@gmail.com

Who Do You Pray For?

Last night while Captain and i laid in bed and said our prayers, i realized something amazing; he never forgets anyone while praying. This is why our prayers take a longgggg time (lol). Not only does he do that, but he explains what he is praying for. For example, "I pray for Dinga (my sister) that her boo boo on her arm will go away fast.....i pray for Ms.Barnes that she will always be a good teacher......i pray for mommy that you will always be nice to me and that your car will always work (lol).....i pray for Titi Soni (my brother).......and it goes on and on."

I had an aha moment last night when i realized how much time we take to pray. It's not how long you take to pray that counts, but what and who you are praying about. What are you saying? Do you remember the crossing guard? Or all your friends? Their children? How about your neighbors? Or your pastor and his wife? Your parents (i sure hope so) Your siblings, their souses and kids. Your aunts or uncles in another country. The homeless. The thousands of people living in poverty or the ones who did not have a meal to eat for days. Are you thanking God for what you HAVE? Instead of asking for more.

Shelter. Food. Clothes on our backs. Our health. Our job. Education. Your eye site. Legs. Arms. Or a bed to sleep on. Milk for the kids. Your car. Or the buses that you have access too. The sun. Rain. Snow...instead of complaining about it. Your business. Your boss; are you praying for him / her? Gran-parents. But above all, your kids? What are you praying for when it comes to them? Tonight, i ask you to take a few moments while praying and pray diligently. Don't rush. Because remember God sees and hears you. I mean, isn't that why and who you are praying too?

We must spend more time in our prayers. You don't have to scream or yell or do what you may see others do....just humble your self and think about what you are praying for and about. Focus on your prayers. Wait and listen for Gods voice. He is there.

Today i thank God  EVERYTHING he has given me and everything he has taken from me. Even when things seem to hurt you and you don't understand why??? Remember if you are a child of God (which we all are) then isnt that His job, to protect you? Ok, so don't argue with Him regarding loosing someone or something. He is a perfect God.

He Makes Me Smile All The Time!

Today was a great day. Everyday is a great day. As long as i can wake up, see my kids, eat and have a roof over our head, it's a great day. God is good.

When i woke up this morning, with Captain right next to me (and not in his own bed) i just laid there and stared at his beautiful face and smiled. I smiled because the last thing i remember is the hard time he gave me to go to sleep and just like every night he told me that he "had to sleep with you mommy" lol. I made his warm milk with Ovaltine and before i woke him up to drink it, just like every morning, i kissed him up all over his face. Of course he woke up. He acts like he doesn't like it but when i stop he grabs my face back down to his. God i love that boy. It takes him about 5 minutes to wake up, fully. He drinks his milk and then feels much better. As if i fed him some type of energy juice. lol.

He asked for his DS game so i went and got it. He laid there and said, "mommy come beside me and kiss my face like you always do so i can take pictures of us to send to daddy." I started laughing because what does this 3 and a half year old know about "sending pictures." Ohhh boy.

So we took the pictures and got ready for school. Despite how much Captain does not listen (at times...many times) he is the joy of my life. The love of my life. Everytime i look at him (even when i am upset) i smile. When he is away from me at school, and i think of him, i smile.


He truly saved my life!

Don't Worry Yourself Sick - Literally!

I had a wonderful weekend. Church was probably the highlight of it all. The pastor spoke about stress and what it does to our bodies and mind. He mentioned that it is one of the leading causes of many diseases and sicknesses in the world. I thank God for this man in my life. he is truly a disciple, a teacher...a prophet.

I truly believe that is true and when i got home, i researched it and YES it is in fact the truth. We may not feel like "our worries and stress" will give us cancer at some point, but it will. I mean there are so many other diseases, even the ones we think are minor ones; like high blood pressure. I don't take any of it lightly. Awhile back my iron was very low. At first i was like "Oh Dr. why is that?" Like HELLLOOO....of course it was low. I was not eating right at all and was not talking my iron vitamins, as i use too. But above all, i was stressed. Although i didn't feel stressed, i was. We don't always feel it because we are so busy going going going....Not eating well and stress combined....is trouble. Look around you. Do the math.

Everyone i know who was under stress or did not eat and live right got sick at some point. The bible talks about the way we should be eating. God never intended on his children to eat McDonald's, cookies, cakes, fried foods and the list goes on. He wants us to eat fruits, veggies, fish etc. Food that will do our mind and body good.

Look, I'm one to talk. I need to stop the sweet tooth cravings too. I tend to go up and down a lot. But i need to stay faithful to what i know God wants me to do.

What is the point of stressing or worrying? What difference will it make? Most of us stress over finances (i know the feeling), but there is nothing we can do. I just got another job to help out my issues a bit. Some people work 2, 3 and even 4 jobs. I know this is going to be hard for me with school starting in Jan but i got to do it. I'm looking at the bigger picture here. If Captain (my 3 year old) is going to be in sports all the time; then i need money. We have bills, food, mortgage/rent, gas, personal expenses, insurance; life and car...and it goes on. We have to pay to LIVE! If it means we get a couple jobs, so be it. Complaining only adds to the problem. Believe me, i KNOW! Complaining is like poison. Only it is a slow killer. It drains us and makes us ugly and weak. I don't know about you, but I'm NOT WEAK, so the feeling of it does not do well within me (lol). We need to lift up our heads, smile and trust that God has it all under control.

From this day forth, NO MORE STRESS or worrying for me. I want to live to see my kids and  grand kids get married.

Coconut Oil - The Real Deal

I'm amazed on how many health benefits coconut oil has. I tell you, when you research, you find the TRUTH. I'm going to attach an article on this oil and the link to where you can go and read more. A dear friend of mine is selling the pure organic coconut oil, and yesterday while at church, he was explaining the benefits to me and where this pure oil comes from. He said, "Liz everyone on this planet should be using coconut oil; to cook with, use on our skin-The benefit of coconut oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil, our hair and even drinking it." I was sold. Although i have been hearing about this for a long time, i never took it serious. It is also a cleanser and a form of loosing weight. It's magical. It is truly from God. As believers, we should use nothing but Pure Organic Coconut Oil.

Please read this article found here....

Coconut oil consists of more than ninety percent of saturated fats (Don’t panic! First read to the last word. Your opinion may change), with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Virgin Coconut Oil is no different from this. Let us have a bit detailed study of this.

• The Saturated Fatty Acids: Most of them are Medium Chain Triglycerides, which are supposed to assimilate well. Lauric Acid is the chief contributor, with more than forty percent of the share, followed by Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, Myristic Acid and Palmitic.
• The Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Linoleic Acid.
• The Monounsaturated Fatty Acids: Oleic Acid.
• The Poly-phenols: Gallic Acid, which is phenolic acid. These poly-phenols are supposed to be responsible for the fragrance and the taste of Coconut Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in these poly-phenols.
• Certain derivatives of fatty acid like Betaines, Ethanolamide, Ethoxylates, Fatty Esters, Fatty Polysorbates, Monoglycerides and Polyol Esters.
• Fatty Chlorides, Fatty Alcohol Sulphate and Fatty Alcohol Ether Sulphate, all of which are derivatives of Fatty Alcohols.
• Vitamin-E and Vitamin K and minerals such as Iron.

Let us explore the benefits of this oil in our hair: 

Hair Care:

Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It helps in healthy growth of hair providing them a shiny complexion. Regular massage of the head with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff, lice, and lice eggs, even if your scalp is dry. Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care. It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair. It is therefore used as hair care oil and used in manufacturing various conditioners, and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically for hair care.

Please visit Organic Facts for this entire article. You will be amazed. Don't wait to long before adding this oil to your diet. If you would like to know where you can purchase this, please contact me at elizabeth@devainyou.com

I'm Praying and Fasting for DIRECTION!

When i woke up this morning, my plan was not to fast this weekend. I have not fasted in awhile. But then my good friend Vanessa called and put it in my heart that i must pray and fast this weekend. The funny thing was it was on my heart to fast but i ignored it. Baddd Liz. That is when we get into trouble. When we don't listen to Gods voice or for those of you who are not spiritual, it would be your gut (trust me that's God).

I know today a lot of people do not fast. I find the longer they have been in church, the longer they go without fasting. Let me tell you fasting is more important now then EVER! Look around you. Our world is falling apart. Destruction is everywhere. Fasting and praying are appropriate for all believers of all ages throughout all centuries every part of the world. I believe through the years that most churches have not taught "fasting and prayer" therefore many people don't do it....anymore.

If you want a breakthrough in your life, then FAST and prayer. Trust me.
I found this article while researching "fasting" online today. I will quote a part i found to be so true.

"That breakthrough might be in the realm of the spirit. It may be in the realm of your emotions or personal habits. It may be in the realm of a very practical area of life, such as a relationship or finances. What I have seen repeatedly through the years-not only in the Scriptures but in countless personal stories that others have told me -- is that periods of fasting and prayer produce great spiritual results, many of which fall into the realm of a breakthrough. What wasn't a reality . . . suddenly was. What hadn't worked . . . suddenly did. The unwanted situation or object that was there . . . suddenly wasn't there. The relationship that was unloving . . . suddenly was loving. The job that hadn't materialized . . . suddenly did.
The very simple and direct conclusions I draw are these: First, if the Bible teaches us to do something, I want to do it. I want to obey the Lord in every way that He commands me to obey Him. And second, if fasting and praying are means to a breakthrough that God has for me, I want to undertake those disciplines so I might experience that breakthrough!
Every person I know needs a breakthrough in some area of his or her life. I am no exception. I need breakthroughs all the time -- it may be a breakthrough in understandhttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7796882312118537010ing a situation, a breakthrough answer to a problem, a breakthrough idea, a breakthrough insight, a breakthrough in financial or material provision, a breakthrough in health. If you have any need in your life, you need a breakthrough from God to meet that need! Fasting and prayer break the yoke of bondage and bring about a release of God's presence, power, and provision." By CBN.com
 
Do you ever notice when you eat a meal it's hard to pray after. You feel either lazy or like you don't want to do anything, much less pray. When you are lifting up the Lord in prayer, there is a certain power in your words. When you are speaking it out loud through your lips, there is power in that. We have more strength spiritually when we are on an empty stomach.

Think of it this way...what did Eve use to entice Adam? FOOD!

Pray for me as i pray for you. Today, I'm praying for DIRECTION this weekend. In my life. Career, family and my ministry.

They Kick Your Behind!

I feel amazing. Awesome. Strong and happy. I'm telling you, when i workout consistently i feel so healthy and i even eat healthier. When I'm not in the gym, or doing something physically active, I'm lazy and i eat all the wrong things. I have a sweet tooth that seems to pop up on me at those times. I have not been very faithful in the gym at all since July. I gained about 8 pounds this summer which for me is not good because I'm only 5 feet. There was something about the gym that was not motivating me. I tried it all. Had my music going loud in my ears, had all the right gear (clothing) on and even bought a great pair of working out sneakers....but i just wasn't feeling it.

A dear friend of mine told me about Paul's Boot Camp which is a 2 minute drive from my house. I live borderline Vaughan and Brampton. It is located at Zenway and Hwy 7. I drive by there all the time on my way to work at the wedding studio. Each time i drove by i could hear the excitement inside. Loud music and loud women (lol). So one day i walked in and asked if i could do a trial, and they said "of course."

OHHHHHH myyyyyy let me tell you, it was the most amazing workout i have ever done. I mean that. I was soaked. I did an Academy 3 class, which i would not recommend for a beginner, but i was amazed. I immediately signed up for the trail month. That was a month and a half ago. There is no better way to go then this. Within 4 days i saw results.

I found as soon as i hit my 30's i started getting lazy with the gym. I would go like 3 times a week compared to 5 times a week. PBC makes you wanna go to every class. It's fun, energetic, loud and the ladies are all amazing! We have a blast there. Seriously. I never talk to people at the gym but I'm the real "Liz" when I'm at PBC.

I encourage if you to take a look at their website right here and try a class that fits your schedule and needs. You will thank me.

Do Something About It!

What is laying around in your house that is over due? What do i mean? Well, it could be dry cleaning or hemming those pants that have been laying there in a bag for a couple months. Or pictures you would like to place in frames. Maybe organizing your closets or getting those heels on those three pairs of shoes fixed. I don't know what it is, but i just dropped off a bag of boots at the shoe repair that i was thinking about throwing away. Now, these boots are practically new with scuffed heels. That's it. But that is not what made me keep them in a bag for the past 2 years, it is the fact that i got these boots from a company i use to work for called "Lindsay Perry" a high end shoe line based out of Toronto but sold in stores like Holt Renfrew...i was an account executive at this company and received many shoes and boots for free due to the fact that i wore a sample size shoe. So when there was a little mark or mistake in a stitch, they would give me the shoes free of charge. They cost anywhere between $300-$1000 Yes i know, insane.

So before i threw them out, after i saw what my sister did to her shoes at the shoe repair, i decided to take a trip there. All together for 6 pairs, the total was $100. Can you believe that? I was in shock. I get to save all those expensive and very nice boots for $100. WOW!

What is it that you have been putting off? Is it a trip to the dentist? Your morning walks or jogging? Bringing your pet to the vet? Have you been thinking about scrap-booking? Do you want to take cooking classes? Start it TODAY! Make a call or first step! Do something about it.


Make sure to email me and fill me in......:-)

What Are Your Plans?

With Christmas holidays around the corner, we are busy making plans, deciding where to go and who to spend time with.....right?

Your probably going back and forth on who is really worth your precious time on such an important holiday. Well, let me tell you this (as i have done a lot of thinking too) If you have family, brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles, cousins etc, then spend it with them. Even if you have not seen them in years or have a grudge against them for whatever reason, reach out to them this Xmas. Make this year a special one. Please do yourself that favor.

Truthfully, there is not joy, like being with your family. Nothing is worth your time away from them. Look, i spent so many years (many years ago) away from my family. Every xmas or thanksgiving i cried inside wondering what they were doing. Today, noway! Every holiday, we are together. All of us. If there are people who don't speak (still) then i share my time between them. But nothing is more important to me then my familia!

Stop looking for reasons why you don't speak to someone. So they did you wrong or said something to offend you, so what! Grow up. No I'm serious.  There is nothing you can tell me that i have not been through, unless its "doing drugs" otherwise i have been there, done that! So i know what it feels like to be hurt, betrayed and abandoned......But i give God thanx for my life and for my parents and family EVERYDAY! Despite my story. If it was not for them, i would not have a story. So please make a difference in your life NOW.

Don't go on another minute without PEACE. Make a difference! Do not allow pride to get in your way.
If you have not yet read it, go and but A NEW EARTH by Eckart Tolle. The book talks about and describes the different types of "pride" that we deal with on an everyday basis.

I try so hard not to let "pride " get in my way. It's hard but I'm working on it.
When it comes to my family, i don't care how i look, i will say sorry or forgive me. Even when i have not done anything wrong. Because i know the difference it will make. Period.

I love you all and hope this blog has made a difference in your "Holiday Plans"

What Is With All This Garbage?

 These are actually real photos taken the "day of"

Ok, so Captain and i were taking the bus yesterday and out of nowhere he says, "ewww mom this is disgusting"
and as i looked down i could not believe my 3 and a half old was talking about the litter on the floor. Honestly what is this world coming too? I live in a BRAN new development. It is less than a year old and look what is happening at the bus stops ALREADY!

Why? How hard is it to throw your coffee cup or can of pop or even a bag of chips in the garbage. Ok so there is no garbage in sight....so hole onto it until you get onto the bus. That's what i do. Even my Captain does not throw his litter on the floor. It's nasty and wrong. Think of what you are doing to the air, the pollution. Even if you are not a "green" kinda person, please just make a difference. It's so wrong.

Moments after we saw this, a gentleman came and stood by us to wait for the bus. He was drinking a cup of Tim Horton's coffee and when he was done with it, he threw it on the floor. Before i was even about to open my mouth, Captain said "heeyy you can't do that. You have to put it in the garbage." The man was in shock and picked it up and said, "ok son, i will."


I was so proud of my son. 

Please please make a difference. What will Brampton or any other city look like 5 years from now? Do we really want our children raised in that kind of environment?

Are You Following Me?

First, do you like my new color? :-)))I love it...

Ok ladies and gents, i need your help here. I need you to click on the FOLLOW button on the right hand side of this screen. I looked at my "stats" this week which i have not done in months and noticed that this week alone, i had 172 viewers on my main page for the blog. Now that is insane considering there is not many followers. So what is it? I mean why don't you just follow my flog and join along?

I hear so many bloggers complain about this and never felt the need to comment as i enjoy blogging and did not care how many followers i had. But, after a "business marketing workshop i did this week, it started bothering me. Because i really do write for YOU so i want to see that you are following me.

So if you read this, then simply click on the FOLLOW button and join this journey with me.

Make Today A Happy Day!

When i woke up this morning and gave God thanx for everything i have, especially for waking me up, i realized how blessed i was when i was able to go in my fridge and make breakfast, turn up the heat, look in my closet at the many shoes and clothes i have to choose from. Turn my TV on and kiss up my Captain. There are so many things i can list, but i want to name the simple things that we never think we are fortunate to have. It's actually a privilege to have these things. Turn on the news or your computer and look at what is happening around you.

Today i want you to make it a Happy Day. Smile as much as possible. Hold the door for someone coming behind you, young or old. Buy someone a tea or coffee. Tell someone how beautiful they look. Call a friend to tell them you love him/her. Start reading a book. Write down your thoughts today. Start a journal....all these things are the reason why i usually have a happy day (most days). Do not allow the small stuff to get you. Brush off the little words that may upset you. Reply with a smile. I guarantee you will be amazed at yourself. My friends, life is too short to live it in misery.

Have an awesome and blessed day!

Do You Have A Secret?

What a beautiful morning. God is GREAT!

Colleen, Natasha and Elizabeth. The "Unique" Ladies

I woke up this morning and realized i forgot to log onto Full Circle yesterday to watch Colleen Miller speak on her "Story."
Well i have just finished watching it, and let me tell you, i feel so inspired and lucky to have this woman in my life as such a close friend. Despite having a the "Unique Group" together, Colleen and i were friends long before we started our youth events. She shared the story of being a pastor's daughter, growing up in the church and being in ministry; when she became pregnant with her "first boyfriend" (who is her husband now and they parent 2 boys) unborn child, and made the choice to abort the baby. She shares the pain of the shame she carried for 2 years alone. Out side of her very small circle of friends, she told not a soul. At the time, she was working for a crisis center that dealt with young women who were pregnant and wanted to abort the child. This was her work. She was scared and felt like a liar by working with these women after what she had just done.

Colleen knew there was a calling on her life but felt like she would never live it out until she brought that secret "out of the dark and into the light."

She finally did and has been released to LIVE her life freely and with the true power of God. Today she is helping many families, women and youth to live their lives without regret. To love. To HEAL. She is a walking testimony of what the power of Gods hand can do in your/our life.

I'm blessed to have Colleen in my life and know that i can count on her to be that voice or shoulder i need from time to time. She is never too busy for anyone. There were times i called her in the middle of the night and needed her, and she was right there. Never complained but always listened. She gave me the strength to SURVIVE!

This truly opened up my spiritual eyes on some things that i have been dealing with. She made me realize that holding secrets in the dark will never give you freedom. That the very thing you are keeping in the dark can save a life or soul. Someone may need to hear you speak. Share your story. Don't be afraid. Fear nothing but God. You will feel lighter and such a relief when you let it out. There is that saying, "The Truth Shall Set You Free" you don't even have to be in church to know this saying.

For more on the Full Circle story that Colleen shares, please log onto Colleen Speaks

If there is something in you that you have been hiding, let it out today. Call someone; your mother, father, friend, sister, brother or counselor and share your story or secret. God will use that very story in you to share with the world. To save lives. Don't be ashamed. Please.

Old = Beautiful

As Captain and i were taking the bus this morning (car is in the shop AGAIN) i was very attentive and aware of my surroundings. The "bus" does that to me. We sat at the front of the bus where the elderly sit and there was a little old lady that came on with a huge pack of paper towel. She got on right in front of the Canadian Tire Store so i guessed the paper towel was on sale. There was about 15 rolls in the pack. There was this "beauty" that this woman possessed and i could not help but stare. She looked Spanish or maybe even mixed with black. Her hair was curly but she brushed it out so it looked soft and wavy. She was about 85 years old with the most beautiful olive complexion. Her freckles were perfect :-)

When she sat down, Captain moved over a seat to give her the space to sit. She frequently smiled at Captain as he sat there playing with my phone. Captain had this connection with her. He kept staring at her and smiling back. I know my son and i know he felt her gentle spirit. So did i.

I started thinking about how it's so amazing when we get old, we are like babies all over again. She walked slowly, she struggled to sit down, and you could see that she had no care in the world; just like babies, toddlers and children. Older folk have no reason to put on a "fake" show. What you see is what you get. I began thinking about my life and how i would love to have their mentality in life....now at my age. I started thinking about how she must feel when she goes to sleep at night. I wondered if she had a partner and how long they were together. I got this feeling that she was widow.

When she stood up to press the bell, Captain saw it and quickly stood on the seat to press it for her. He did it in a way that was "helpful" and she recognized it and said, "you are a special young boy." I almost started crying. It was moving. As she started walking, she dropped the paper towel. I quickly stood up and picked it up for her and stayed standing behind her in case she dropped it again. I wished we could sit and talk because i was sure she had a lot to teach me.

When she got off the bus, Captain turned to me and said, "mommy we helped her...she's nice, i like her."
Wow, i thought...at such a young age, he is aware or "pureness" and that was so beautiful. I continued the ride teaching Captain about respecting his elders and no matter what, they are usually right. I compared her to his teachers at school and family and taught him the lessons my parents taught me.

In my eyes, the older you become, the more beautiful you will be. Why? Because of the wisdom and knowledge you will gain with age. Now, that's something to look forward too huh? :-)

For My Teen Girls - Save It!

Some people say that when a teen is sexually active at an early age, it has to do with "something missing" from her life. Not true. It can be a combination of many things. Parents, you could be the best parent in the world, it doesn't matter. It is something that is either missing in her/his life or something they are looking for. Maybe something they never had.

Sexual intercourse at an early age, having multiple partners or unprotected sex puts a teen (or anyone) at risk for sexually transmitted infections or unwanted pregnancies. What will it take to wake up our young people?

I'm begging you all to please read your statistic reports on HIV, STD's and the danger of being active unprotected. If you are active, get your physicals yearly and never do so unprotected unless you are married, or common long. Ok, I have to be a realist; or in a long term and steady relationship with one partner. I know it's happening and I would rather guide then direct you.

As a young teen, I use to think that my man loved me more because he didn't want to use condoms. I know that many of our young people think the same. I work with youth, so I know. This is a dangerous way to live. That man doesn't respect you and doesn't respect that you are the one getting pregnant not him. He could easily advise you to abort the baby caring very little about the damages it may cause to your body NOT HIS!

The reports I read this morning stated that teens between the ages of 15-17 use condoms more than 19-25
That was very surprising to me. It also states that the use of condoms have increased with teens. Now, that is great news.

In closing, I will say this, I was also a teen once and made some mistakes. All in the name of "looking for love" (in my case it was the love I never got at home) but if I can make a difference today by telling you TO KEEP IT LOCKED up until your married, I will. If you are currently active, than please protect yourself. It doesn't mean that a man loves you when he doesn't want to use a condom, it means he doesn't care. Unless he is your spouse, long term partner or husband. But let's say HUSBAND! It also shows that he is careless. STD's have no "look" it's invisible.

I gave birth to my first child at 17, and although he was a blessing to my life, because if I did not become a mother at 17, I may have been dead or caught up somewhere real dark. It forced me to become a woman early. Too early. I received a blessing, however I lost a lot and had to play major catch up later in life. What I'm saying is focus on your life, goals, education, dreams, plans and friendships NOW before getting out there and giving yourself away to someone who can literally take your life. It takes a very long time to truly know if someone is living a clean life. You have your entire life ahead of you, don't throw it away.

So to all my young girls, I say LOCK IT UP and save it for the one man God has cut out for you; your husband.

Love, Lizzy

The Truth

I have been pondering on this idea for a long time now, and finally decided, we all need it. After the very first time i ever got tested, getting the tests yearly became easier and easier. Now it's a walk in the park. Mind you the first time i got tested was less than 4 years ago. After i got married and just had a bran new baby. I had applied for Life Insurance and of course they tested me. I was always afraid of getting life insurance because of that test. Why? I don't know....but like many of you, i was very very nervous the first time. However, it is the best thing i have ever done. Ever. I'm sharing my story with you, because so many of us want to get tested but don't.

I invite you to this amazing FREE workshop "The Truth" Saturday November 26 from 3pm- 6pm at The Cris Gibson Community Center (Brampton north of Queen on McLaughlin)

There will be guest speakers along with someone living with Hivto speak to us.

We need to get this word out there my friends. Everyone is so afraid to speak about it. Well, not me. Let's come together and discuss The Truth. Get your teens, friends and family out this day and join in on the "convo" bring your questions and comments and let's keep it real on November 26.

Please SHARE these flyers. Don't keep it to yourself. If you know anyone who is ACTIVE, they need to be there.

I want to see you there! This is for young women and men, however it is not limited to them, if you are older and don't consider yourself "young" please come. You need to hear this too.

To reserve your seat, please email me back with the amount of seats you will need. You have 2 months to take that day off :-)))

For some reason i can't seem to upload the flyer here...so if you send me your email, i will send it to you.

Read Your Manual

What a weekend....what a weekend....

Ok, so you know how we all get car manuals when we purchase a car? I have had my Audi for about 6 years. I don't owe anything on it, but i feel like i do...with all the money i have put into fixing it. It got hit a couple of weeks ago and the damage cost was $1,400 which was cool because it was the drivers fault and he chose not to go through insurance. That was fine with me, except i was without a car for a week. My son told me when he was driving the car on the weekend the "coolant" sign kept popping up and advised me to make sure i got a bottle of coolant. As i was about to take Captain skating yesterday and driving with my foster son as well, i saw smoke coming from the hood. I tell you, my God is amazing...i was turning into Canadian Tire at that exact time to buy the coolant. The mechanic knocked on my window and when i rolled it down he said, "Ms...you have a leakage under your car and its making a funny noise...." I thought to myself "noooo really?" But i did not want tot be rude.

Make a long story short, it was my timing belt. yuppp that's right/. So this means about $800 later i will have my car back. Plus i had to pay $100 to have it towed because Canadian Tire will charge me about $1,200 to fix it and they are not professionals in my eyes. My mechanic who works at Audi part time and also has his own shop, has been working on my car for about 2 years and he is amazing.

I called him crying yesterday and he has never seen me like that. He got so worried and assured me it's not the end of the world and reminded me that "I MUST READ MY MANUAL or at least look at it ever few months" okaay okaay.......i thought...

Anyway when i looked in the manual and read the section on coolant and etc (i don't know much about cars, except how to drive it and a few other minor things) i noticed it said that after a certain amount of kil on the car, to check the timing belt and this and that....I think i have looked in that manual about 3 times in 6 years. Yiikesss...that is terrible.

Ladies, please do not wait until your car breaks down before you take it to a shop. Get it checked out every 4 to six months just for the hell of it. Taking the bus is fun (more so for Captain) but my ohhh my i don't realize how much i love my baby until it's gone)

PLEASE READ YOUR MANUALS AND GET TO KNOW YOUR CAR INSIDE AND OUT!!!

It's NOT Worth it!

Ok i feel a lot better now but this morning i was a HOT mess. If there is one thing i can't stand is "angry drivers."
I'm sure many of you can relate. You know like the ones that just won't let you in their lane and the more or longer you sit there with your signal on the more they drive up. Yes those ones!!!!!!

I hope the person who did this to me today is reading this. The funniest thing is when you drive down about 3 or 4 lights and guess who is stopped at the same red light with you??? YES! She/He is. Now aint that funny! (lol) They were in such a rush speeding down like road runner but they got NOWHERE!

It's just not worth it. I mean you wont get to where you are going any faster...ok you may save yourself about 3 minutes...if that. But more than likely you will be there at the same time if you didn't cut me off. Above all SAFETY!!!!!!! Please. If you don't care about your life, care for others.

Besides this, read the newspaper or turn on the TV to news and listen to how many accidents are caused by IGNORANCE. My car got hit by a driver in a hurry 2 weeks ago and he was out $1000 cash because he did not want to go through his insurance. His car was totaled. I mean, it's just not worth it.

Don't ever loose your "driving class" rules. Look through all mirrors at least every 5 minutes. Never turn without looking in your blind spots and above all, let someone by. If they are asking you to let them in, LET THEM! What will you loose if you don't???

Sorry had to get that off my  chest. A smile goes a long way. It is just not worth it!!!!!

Stop!!!!! Take A Break!

Ok we all know what it feels like to have too much on your plate. I know i do.

This summer i had to seriously take a break. I was doing way more than i can handle. I don't know how i still had time for "me" not much but i did. Most of us go without a substantial amount of sleep on a regular basis; and between our lack of energy from poor sleeping habits, and our hectic lifestyles, we often feel like we're pushing ourselves or dragging as we go through our days at home, at work, and with our kids. If you're like me, you probably feel like sleep or pampering should be placed at the bottom of your "to do" list and at the end of each month....which never happens because your mind goes into overdrive at the end of each month. There just isn't enough hours in the day to spend too much of it in bed. And, you, like many others, might feel that admitting you're not getting enough sleep or allowing yourself a quick nap during the day is a sign of weakness. Instead of sleeping more, you might turn to medications that give you a quick pick me up, or coffee and candy to get you going.

Look, coffee does not fix anything. I quit drinking it (although i only had one a day) about 3 months ago. Cold turkey. When i started "hot yoga" i realized what it was doing to me and QUIT! If you want to know, research it or maybe i can make that next weeks blog :-)

What worked for me was to write down my top 5 priorities. My kids, my job, completing my book, and me. When i say "me" i mean my social life, my physical health, getting into shape mentally, my family etc
I took a break this summer and focused on those top 3 things. I was the woman who worked 5 jobs and wore many hats. But not anymore. I finally finished my book that i had been writing for 4 years ONLY because i had time this summer to do so.

STOP and take a look at what matters in your life. What's important? Write down what you would like to see take place in the next 5 years. Where do you see yourself? Then start from there.


But whatever you do RELAX and laugh with your kids. Stop rushing. They know when were doing that...and another thing, get off the phone when their around. They don't like it. Unless it is a business or emergency matter. Especially for the young ones.

Liz

Get Tested!

I remember growing up and being so afraid to get tested for HIV! My friends and i would talk about it but no one had the guts to go and do it. So i went so many years without doing one. But in the back of my mind, despite if i had been with one partner or 10, i could not stop thinking about it. My first boyfriend cheated every week with a different girl. I grew up in the hood (Bleecker St) and then, it was norm. There were times where i went in for my yearly physical and was so tempted to have one so i said to myself, "ok if they offer it to me, then i will do it." But can you believe none but ONE doctor ever said anything about getting tested. Awful huh?

Finally after i got married, my husband and i decided to get life insurance and that was the FIRST time ever i got tested. I even told him i was very nervous and scared  to get the policy because of the Aids test. He was so relaxed and cool about it even tho he had reason not to be. However, he got tested yearly. So it was a walk in the park for him. Me, on the other hand, i was a mess for two weeks while waiting for the results. Of course it was negative but the wait alone was like dying slowly. There are thousands of women in the states who get infected by their "gay" husbands and they have only slept with ONE man...so it has nothing to do with the amount of partners you have been with. Everyone is at risk. Unless you were both virgins, then ok. Otherwise, one is too many and reason even to get tested.

Since then i have been tested every year. It is the MOST LIFE CHANGING thing you can ever do. If you are married, then this is not really for you because hopefully your husband or wife will be the last but if your not, and you take this test and the results are NEGATIVE, i promise you this, you will NEVER be intimate with another man unless he also gets tested. Even with protection. It is just the affect this "test" has on you. All the women i know that have been tested DO NOT sleep around with men. They are very cautious and do not take chances. However there are those women who have never been tested and sleep around a lot. Whether they are in the church or in the world. Makes no difference. This test is one of the bestthings you will ever do.

Years ago too many people did not take it because the waiting period is too long and for that entire time they waited, they are sick. I have one friend who puked everyday waiting for the results. But today, you can take this test and get the results in 5 MINUTES!!!! Please go to this website and find a location near you and give yourself what you deserve, FREEDOM!!!!!!
Get Tested Here
These clinics are located throughout York Region and provide the following services in a non-judgmental and confidential environment:. Please visit them today.

Also look out for the workshop i will be doing in November on this topic. I will have special guest speakers and life changing topics. I will keep you posted.

I love you all and hope to be blogging with you in 50 years :-)))

Girls In Canada!

As many of us know i have always had a passion for working with and mentoring young women. Much of this comes from my background as a child and what i survived. Being a young woman in today's society is not easy. We face so many tests and challenges which leave us feeling either less than or not worthy at all. It usually starts at the age of 9. Despite what you're or our parents want to believe, at times they don't even know what we/you/they are going through. I know.....it is a tough world out here. This is why i suggest every young woman READ! Study the "stats" and what is going on in this world we live in. Read about relationships and the do's and don't's of LIFE. Know what it is like to understand "abuse" and all the forms it comes in. Mental, physical, emotional and sexual. This is so important ladies.

Please have someone you can talk too. Unlike myself, i did not have anyone. I had a social worker, but i did not trust her. I had a big sister but i did not trust her either (not my blood sister) But none of that was their fault. I was just a messed up child and did not trust anyone. But we have got to get passed that and reach out to someone. If you have something you want to share with someone, something that is going on that you know should not be, please reach out.

I was doing some reading and researching online tonight and came across an amazing article. Please read this. Please. Like i said, study the world around you...and this is a way to do that.


Why do you focus on girls when most media reports say boys are falling behind?

• We strongly believe that all children—boys and girls—deserve to thrive, and we applaud other campaigns that work to support boys. As a women’s organization, our mission focuses on women and girls. However, our teen violence prevention programs are co-ed, designed for both boys and girls.
• When girls start school, it’s true they are more likely than boys to do well in reading, writing, and forming friendships. Yet for many girls, this advantage is overshadowed by two serious problems—high rates of sexual assault and a sharp decline in mental health in adolescence.
• Aboriginal girls in Canada are especially at risk. They experience alarmingly high levels of depression, suicide, addiction, HIV infection, and poverty.
• We are also very concerned about the growing number of girls who are being victimized by sex trafficking. About 80% of sex trafficking victims in Canada are women and girls. 1

How many girls in Canada are sexually assaulted?

• In 2008, over 11,000 sexual assaults of girls under the age of 18 were reported to police in Canada. Since only about 10% of assaults are reported, the actual number is much higher. 
• Girls experience sexual assault at much higher rates than boys—82% of all victims under the age of 18 are female. 
• The highest risk is for teenage girls between the ages of 13 and 15. At this age, girls are much more likely to be sexually assaulted than young women aged 18 to 24.
• When girls are sexually assaulted, 75% of the time the perpetrator is someone they know. 
• One third are victimized by a family member. Ninety-seven percent of the perpetrators are male—a father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, or step-relative. 
• Girls are four times as likely as boys to be sexually assaulted by a family member.
• Tragically, about 75% of Aboriginal girls under age 18 have been sexually abused.
• Almost half of all Ontario high school girls have been the victim of unwanted sexual comments or gestures. 
• Over 80% of victims of dating violence are female. 

What happens to girls’ mental health in adolescence?

• As girls enter adolescence, from ages 9 to 13, their confidence declines sharply and they experience higher rates of depression.
• In Grade Six, 36% of girls say they are self-confident, but by Grade Ten this has plummeted to only 14%.
• In Grade Six, boys and girls report the same levels of depression—about 25% says they feel depressed at least once a week.  However, by Grade Ten rates of depression in girls have jumped—they are three times more likely than boys to be depressed.  For girls, depression typically stems from “low self-esteem, negative body image, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, and stress.”
• More than 20% of BC girls say they have deliberately cut or harmed themselves. 
• More than half of all girls wish they were someone else. 

Please read more on this article.... 

Is You Child Refusing To Sleep At Night?

I had an amazing weekend and did not even think to log into the computer to check my email. I usually do this in the summers. However, this morning i logged in and checked my 152 emails (from 4 days worth) and read an email in regards to my toddler sleeping at night. It was very interesting and i would like to share it with you.

If you would like to sign up for their newsletter, please do so at Baby Center

Why preschoolers resist bedtime

If you're like most parents, you're all too familiar with this scenario: you put your child to bed at 7.30pm, hugging and kissing her and wishing her sweet dreams. It's been a long day, but still you've got washing-up to do, you have bills to pay, the cat needs to be fed, and you haven't had a spare moment to put your feet up. But instead of spending the rest of the evening catching up on your chores and spending some precious time winding down for the night, you're in and out of your child's room, cajoling her to sleep. She finally nods off – about three hours after she first went to bed.

Take heart: bedtime can be tough for a preschooler. On the one hand, she's learning to assert herself and her new found independence (hence the jack-in-the-box action on her bed). On the other hand, she's fearful of what it means to be on her own. Fighting sleep is a way to take control, but it's also a way to stave off fears that come with the night. Monsters under the bed, boogiemen in the closet, thunderstorms, creepy crawlies – those are pretty scary things to deal with when you're all alone in the dark! And even if she’s not scared, sleep can seem very boring to a preschooler compared to the excitement of the day.

What you can do about bedtime battles

Set aside some time to talk to your child about her day
Your preschooler may be fighting sleep simply because she needs to spend some time with you at the end of her day. Especially if you work long hours yourself, allot some time before bed to chat with her about goings-on at daycare and to find out the latest dramas in her social life. You may find that she's more amenable to sleep if she's had a chance to unburden herself.

Stick to a bedtime routine
Make a pictorial chart for your child to follow – including her bath, teeth brushing, bedtime story and goodnight kiss. Also include her usual (and reasonable) requests – like that second sip of water or a peek at the moon. Give her some notice before it's time to start the routine each night ("Sophie, five minutes before bath time!"). Try not to let her dawdle, or drag things out with activities that aren't part of the ritual – no third glass of water, for instance.

Motivate her
When your child goes to bed on time, the rewards for you are obvious. Make it clear what's in it for her too. The morning after she sticks with the routine, praise her and give her a sticker to put on a special chart. Offer her a reward – like a new book or a visit to her favourite playground – once she stays in bed three nights in a row. (Start small – for a preschooler, a few days is a long time to hang in there!)

Offer choices
Refusing to go to bed is a powerful way for your child to assert herself. So it might help to find an acceptable means of allowing her to be assertive. Let her decide whether she wants to hear some poems or a story before lights-out, for instance, or ask her if she'd like a sip of water before or after she climbs into bed. Be careful to offer only choices you can live with; if you ask "Want to go to bed now?" you probably won't like the answer you get.

Be calm but firm
Even if your youngster cries or pleads for an exception to the going-to-bed rule, stand your ground. If you're frustrated, don't engage in a power struggle. Speak calmly and quietly but insist that when time's up, time's up. If you give in to her request for "five more minutes, please," you'll only hear it again tomorrow night.

 

More On This Article Here... 

I Was Doing So Good.......Until....

So i have been so proud of myself lately for NOT attacking my nails.

My girl Tamara, introduced me to a product called "Nutra Nails" and let me be the one to tell you that her and i KNOW what is good from garbage when it comes to nail treatment. We use to use this product called "Grow 10" the only one on the shelves that was proven to work 100% They discontinued it about 2 years ago and since then, her and i have struggled to get a good product. Well, at least one like that one.

One day Tamara called me and said, "Liz i wanted to test this out before i told you to go buy it but guurrrlll you have got to get this...it is 10 times better than Grow 10...it's called Nutra Nail..." "ok come on now ma, you know aint nuthin betta than Grow 10 hahahah" i laughed.

Well, let me PLEASE tell you here ......IT IS AMAZING!!!!!! I mean if you break a nail, within 5 days you will see a HUGE difference. I mean this y'all.

Recently i had two nails break...it is the first time since i have been using this product. I don't have gel or acrylic or any sort of anything on my nails. The are ALLLLL NATURAL! However, when those two nails broke, i had no choice but to file them down pretty short. I was so sad. I had a pity party all by myself in my room for a whole day.

I'm still not over it......but i will soon.

Okay now, hurry up and go get this polish. You will thank me ....soon. If you are a biter or nibbler, go buy it. You will be hooked on this. Between that and my cuticle oil, i don't which one i love more.

A big SHOUT OUT to my bestest friend Tamara. Honey i wish we would have founf this when we were 14 years old running around like "crazy chicks" lol.....or when we had to jump that fence by "the park" after getting caught stealing. Well "i got caught" lol lol Love you ma.

So Much Love!

Every morning as I'm getting Captain ready for school, i can't help but look forward to the love his friends and teachers give me when i get there and especially as I'm leaving.

This morning i wanted to blog about something else, but here I am blogging about "all the love" i get every morning. There are times when I'm not in the best mood. Probably because Captain gave me a hard time to brush his teeth and wash his face. Maybe he took forever to eat his breakfast...or he just simply did not go to bed early enough which causes him to be in a very bad mood :-((  he may lay down between 8 and 8:30pm but won't shut his eyes until 11:30pm...yeahhhh crazy right?
But as soon as we get to his school i feel 100 times better.

First when they see Captain, they all run to the door or fence (if their out in the playground) and they literally argue and fuss to hug him first. They are all saying his name at the same time and if he is not in a good mood they give him even more love. It is very clear that Captain is "loved" at school. He sometimes just stands there but most of the time he hugs them back and is giggling. He feels good.

That makes my day. Then there is ME, as I'm leaving and saying bye to everyone, they all come and hug me and tell me they love me. The teachers say they don't do it with any other parent. Goshhh that makes me feel like a beautiful flower. His best friend "Yosa" always tells me, "Captains mom, i love you so much...with all my heart." Oh! You have no idea what that does to me. To be loved by innocent children is the best feeling in the world. I would not trade it for all the money out there.

I know all their names and when i say bye i make it personal. I take the time to hang with them every time i drop off Captain. Even if it is just 3 minutes (usually longer) i never leave in a rush. When i do leave, they all stand at the door or fence saying bye. I must admit, there has been a few times where i get into my car with tears in my eyes. It just amazes me how children can be SO LOVING to one another.

It is the most beautiful thing ever!

My Life Revolves Around Them!

I realized this weekend more than ever that i have nothing to complain about. Truly.

I have three beautiful boys that adore me and depend on me just as much as i depend on them. Keeno is my first love. Captain is the love of my life. Kirk (my foster son) completed our life. They are amazing boys and would do anything they could for me. As i would for them.

My weekend was beautiful. Thursday; Captain helped me cook Ackee & Saltfish with whole wheat boiled dumplings (i only ate one) He loves making dumplings and he is so good at it lol.

Our summer has been awesome. Friday- Captain and i went to the barbers before we went and spent a couple hours together. He needed a hair cut badly (lol). We went and had ice cream at our "private spot" while we waited for his barber to have an opening. Yeah, we ended up waiting 2 hours. But we enjoyed that time together. We went browsing downtown Brampton. They have a new spot there by the old theatre and even a Starbucks. Impressive. We had ice cream and after his hair cut we went walking by the Petting Zoo and then off to his dads.

I have been back in the gym and feeling AWESOME! I headed to my brothers gym "Extreme Fitness" and had an amazing workout. He is a personal trainer so i promised i would go see him every Friday. I'm glad i went. After that i met with my gurl Nicky for sushi. We had a great time. I stayed at her house for the night so that we could wake up and go to "boot camp" ohhhhh my gosh when i woke up, i could barely move. I thought i would not make it to the boot camp. But I'm glad i did :-))))

Saturday was a great day.

I was suppose to go to a kids bday party but i did not have Captain and did not want to go without him. So Keeno decided to take me out. We headed to Earles (his workplace) and met with Kirk and had a yummy dinner. We laughed and conversed about school etc.

After that Kirk had to work so Keeno and i headed to the theatres where we watched a VERY scary movie. I did NOT like it. At all. I can't even remember the name. But it  was so gross. It was the one where the group of young people all ended up dying because of.......you know it was awful. Don't even want to talk about it.

Keeno was laughing the whole time while i covered my eyes. I think I'm still dramatized (LOL). When we left the theatre it was pooring rain and we parked pretty far but my Keeno put his sweater over my head because my hair was semi blowed dried straight and we walked back to our car. It was a moment for me.

Sunday was a FAB day. Captain and i went to the CNE.

We had a blast. I mean a blast. We played games, went on rides, watched the magic show, went to the farm and we ate all the food we wanted. I was careful. My cheat treat was ice cream. Well $150 later we went for a walk by the beaches and than home.

I was present with my boys all weekend. With nothing on my mind but them. I saw a mother hit her son because he ACCIDENTALLY spilt his juice. Why do parents do that? It's an accident. It is not like the child said "ok i want to spill my juice" it's just crazy. We need to be patient with our children. Listen to them and speak to them the way we want them to speak to us. It's only fare! RIGHT???

Well, i must admit; i have had the best summer ever. It's all about my familia and kids this summer. I have never really taken a summer off just for them. I'm so glad i did this and i will continue to do it every summer. Put all "business" things on hold for my familia. Why work so hard and not play hard? I do not want to live to work. I want to work to LIVE!

Couple more weeks until my mom's birthday gathering at my sis Sue's house. We are all so excited.

Only a bit of summer left. Enjoy these days the best you could. Relax. Have some fun. Take your kids out. Play in the park with them. Swim with them. Go for walks. Take your time and look at the beautiful things God has created. Trees and clouds. Go apple picking (Captain loves it).

Life is so short. It really is. Don't let this time run out on you.