What A day...What A day....

Oh my i feel so amazing.

First of all i must say, the word at church yesterday really got me. I went to sleep with my mind "at rest."

I woke up this morning, got Captain ready for school and planned it so that i would not be going to the gym.
I asked Keeno if he could drop Captain off for me since he wanted to borrow the car to go to the bank early this morning.
While he did that, i slept in a bit (i must admit) and when i got up i text my friend Jo and asked her if she wanted to go rollerblading. Of course she said yes. So at around 9:30am I got ready and headed out the door.

When i got to her house...she was ready to roll :-)))

We decided since we are not yet "pros" we would stay in the back streets (lol) and practise a bit...before we hit the main "roads." We actually did a pretty good job. We roller bladed for about an houre before she had to get ready for school. We chatted, laughed and discussed "life." I had an amazing time.

Above all, we got to get some "workout" into our day before it even started. I missed out on the gym today because i have been going a lot and wanted a break. I decided since i got my skates, i can get in some "work." Yes Jo and i are silly nerds. We got the exact same nerds and almost got the same matching outfits...but then we were like "ummmm NOOO" (lol)

Our next buy is DEF a bike.

Honestly my people, working out does not mean you have to stay in the gym. There are SO MANY other things you can do. Like skipping, running, rollerskating or blading, swimming, walking, sports (outdoors) and my FAV is def "browsing" which involves a lot of walking.

It is summer people, GET OUT THERE and work those calve muscles. The least muscle we work on lol.

I had such an amazing day....after that i went and hand washed my car all by myself :-)))) and than stopped at the liquor store for some coolers, came home and set up some new "treats" i picked out for the house.

What a life.....:-))))

We Barely Give Him 10%

I left church this afternoon speechless, and the whole way home i kept replaying what the Bishop said to me.
I won't get into the whole word on this blog but i will say this; why do we give our 100% in so many things that we do OUTSIDE of God. Like school, boyfriends, partners, friends, kids, jobs, entertainment, social media, and the list goes on. But when it comes down to the things of God-like the word, our pray life and our ministry or Gods children and people, we give about 5% (if that) I'm not talkning to everyone, but this does go to the MAJORITY of US!

I have been hearing God calling me closer to Him for some time now, and i keep putting it off. As if God is something or someone you can just put OFF! Hhhmm
At times i figure "well I'm already doing His work" so I'm good. No, the truth is, I'm not and neither are you. It's not enough. I have not been in my word much lately and i have been praying in a rush to either get to sleep or be on my way out the door. The most intimate time i have with God is while I'm driving and as always i get interupted by some traffic jam, a beeping horn or my mind just goes wandering off.

It's not enough people. We have got to do better than this. The bible says all that He requires from us is 10%
Can you imagine that not even 10% we can give God.....why is that? Yet, we go to Him with open hands asking, begging and pleading.....how can he possibly bless us with nothing to work with? Than we wanna blame Him? Come on now.....give Him something to work with.

If you are already receiving blessings...imagine how much more He has in store for you!
He is not asking that you pray for an hour. Just give Him meaningful prayers. Quality prayers.

Look into your lives today and say "Lord, what am i lacking? What can i do for your kingdom? What is it that is missing in my personal relationship with you?" Be sure to listen to His voice.

We have got to do better than this.

I know for me, it's time i get it together. God has given me enough time to heal and now it is time for peace and restoration. I have a lot of work to do...and it is time i get it done. God won't wait forever.

The Bishop's words to me today, will stay with me always.
Love, Liz

What's The Problem?

When i logged into my computer this morning, i first noticed my "monthly blog stats" which if you don't know, is just an email stating all the details of your blogs. The amount of times it is clicked on, read and the pages that are opened...etc. As usual, i noticed that i have A LOT of readers. Now whether they are being nosey, or they are truly interested, i want them ALL! I totally appreciate that so many women (or men) log onto my D.e.v.a Blog and read my articles, because they are "from my heart" always.

But, there is only one thing i face here, which I'm sure so many of you (unless you are like Oprah or something....) face, no one leaves a comment. Or maybe they do, but they do it on facebook. Why is that?

I know that it can be a bit tricky leaving a comment, because when you click on "post comment" a small box pops up for you to verify the letters, but so what!!! Take the couple seconds and leave the comment on the page. It is no biggy and does not take much time.

I need to know that you are not only reading, but that you are interested enough in sharing comments. I was having this conversation with a dear friend "Colleen" who is also a blogger, and we both agreed that "people read, but they don't comment" Not often anyway. Now, i know this is not news to my fellow bloggers because i hear this all the time. At first it did not bother me, but now i must admit, it does.

So ladies, men, children, youth....who ever is reading the D.e.v.a Blog, please just drop a line.
Let me know what your thoughts are or maybe ideas on blogging topics. If there is something you would like to see me do, please do SHARE!

I can't do this without YOU!

How Organized Are You?

As i was going about my regular routine this morning at the gym, i could not help but notice a few things.
First, i just want to say, i try to be as organized as possible the night before. Meaning, i pack my gym bag, get my outfit for the next day pressed and ready, make sure my house is order and the boys have something to eat while I'm away at work, have my to-do list with me and ready to be checked off as i go along the day, pack my purse, bring which ever books and notes i will need, make a lunch (I try) a few other things and i never leave the house without making my bed (thanx to my parents). Making the bed before you leave the house makes me feel amazing when i get back into the house.

I tend to be very organized. I do try. When I'm not, i feel so "out of it" and impatient. I snap easier and I'm not happy. So being organized means a lot to me.

So anyhow, i noticed a few of the ladies were getting ready but one really sparked an interest in me. This one lady had all her "stuff" in separate bags. One for makeup, one for her shampoo and conditioner, one for her soaps, another for her shower slippers, another for her shower robe. She kept her outfit for the day hung on a hanger and pressed, ready to wear. I even noticed she had her matching weight gloves with her clean sneakers along with her gym gear. She had a blow dryer and an iron all packed in neat bags. I could not help but stare lol. Although I'm very neat and organized with my gym stuff, she was almost perfect at it.

What this showed me, even if it was not true, is that this lady is extremely organized and has her "stuff" together, outside of the gym. She carried this confidence that was so amusing to me. It is rare to see it today. I can usually tell if someone is not organized. I mean how do you feel when you walk in your house? Is everything out of place? Does it take you hours to find something? Are your files separated in alphabetical order? How do your cupboards look? Do you clean up before you have company, knowing it was not that way before they arrived? How do your children's rooms look? How about the kitchen and bathroom? Do you clean as you cook or tidy up as you make a mess? Is your closet organized?

These are all questions we really need to think about. If you feel you can do with some input or a helping hand, i dare you to put your life and skills to the test.

I invite you to attend this amazing conferance held by Colleen Blake Miller Counselling:

Woman of Worth

Saturday June 25 2011

@

CrossPoint 444 Steeles Ave w

9:30am- 5:00pm

Tickets $35 (early bird)

Come out and listen to professionals share their advice and input on how to live an organized and balanced life.

It Is Time To GROW UP!

"I'm a little girl, but i need to remember that I'm a woman." Those were Snoopy's words.

I was on the phone with my friend Snoopy today and we were discussing everything from career, fashion, family, relationships, and growing UP! We shared how we as women look about 10 years younger than we are but in reality we are growing up and need to make some changes. The first thing we know we need to change is our "dress code." We shared about the different fashion personalities and got to choose which ones we could relate too. I found myself not knowing which personality i can really resonate with BUT i LOVE the CLASSIC LOOK. We both agreed that at times we feel so young and because we look so young and it messes with our heads. We also agreed that we want to start dressing classy ALL THE TIME!

Sometimes we tend to get caught up in the "hype" of things and forget our age.
I'm a mother and i need to remember that at all times. It is my responsibility to be happy and make them happy. To look and act the part at all times. Despite, where i may be or what I'm doing.  When I'm dressing up I feel so amazing. I feel good. I feel alive and vibrant. It's not dressing up that makes it enough, it all depends on what i put on. When I'm dressed up like a lady, (blazer, dress or a suit) I feel like i can take over a room or even the world.

So this obviously means i need a bit of a "wardrobe" change. I need to focus on the "look" that i love and that loves me.

At the end of the day, we decided that "we are little women that need to grow up and dress like ladies."
You may be thinking (if you know me), "you already dress like a lady." Yes i do, but this is in a different way.

Having said this, It's time to go shopping.

What's The Point?

What is it that keeps you doing something that does not satisfy your spirit and soul?

There is not much that i do that makes me unhappy. Well, there is only one "thing" that i find myself "talking about" that sucks my energy all up and leaves me DRY. So I'm practising and learning how to deal with "that" thing, and have come a very long way. Only God can help me with this one (lol).

 However, I do not get into too much that makes me unhappy. Obviously there are things you will never be able to control, but what about those things that you have FULL control over....like your job!

I agree that we, as a society, spend way too much time talking about career. It’s usually one of the first questions you ask when you meet someone; “What do you do?” It’s how we connect with others. It’s how we identify ourselves. People use their careers to define who they are and place value on others, and this can have devastating consequences. Why do we do this? Why do we care so much about what we or others do? Further more, why do we stay at jobs that are so dissatisfying? If you find yourself saying these words in regards to your job, “It’s alright ...(or)...It pays the bills.”  You are obviously not at the right job. But that is ok, for now....

So my question is, "What is keeping you there?"
What is there that fulfills you? Why do we look for our jobs to bring us the happiness that we need? Maybe it's the long hours we put in? Hmmmm. While i don't believe we should judge a person according to their jobs, i do believe we should be happy with our jobs. There is nothing like going home miserable and unable to put a smile on your face for your family. If, you are not happy at home, than that makes it all the harder.
I have come to learn that "career" is an extension of "self." It is not enough to just like it, you have to "love it."

If i ask "what do you love doing?" What would your answer be? Do you have a social life? How is your relationship with your family and friends? What topics interest you? Do you have any hobbies?
If you can't answer these questions, than something is not right in your life. This is for YOU to evaluate, not me/us. The only thing that matters at the end of the day is YOUR happiness. That is it. Your career is NOT your "identity." Everything in between it, is. Whether we are cleaning toilets at the mall or working at a factory, my/our career should never define our existence.

You don’t have to find fulfillment from work. It’s nice when you do. But it’s rare in today's society. Whatever you do, don't neglect the things that can truly fulfill you. That is "our" problem.

It’s perfectly okay to find passion and fulfillment in other areas of your life (actually this is highly recommended). When people ask you what you do, you don’t always have to talk about your resume. You can tell them about your hobbies or your family. You can tell them that you enjoy going to the gym, designing cards, writing or even doing "nothing."

Let's change our perceptions of career.
I say, let’s recognize that work is meant to pay the bills and feed our families. If it does more, you are lucky. But focus on identifying your passion outside of the workplace. Don't try and find everything at work. If you know what i mean. It is enough that our "work" provides means for survival. That means, it’s fulfilling its purpose.

If you want something to define YOU, than get up and go find it. Stop waiting around for it to come to you!

Love, Lizzy

This Brought Tears To My Eyes

I got this very moving email at work today from a co-worker and i was so touched that i said, i MUST post this. Talk about listening and paying attention to GODS VOICE!

THE BIRTH OF THE SONG 'PRECIOUS LORD'

Back in 1932, I was 32 years old and a fairly new husband. My wife, Nettie and I were living in a little apartment on Chicago 'S south Side. One hot August afternoon I had to go to St... Louis , where I was to Be the featured soloist at a large revival meeting. I didn't want to go.

Nettie was in the last month of pregnancy with our first child. But a Lot of people were expecting me in St. Louis . I kissed Nettie good-bye,
Clattered downstairs to our Model A and, in a fresh Lake Michigan Breeze, chugged out of Chicago on Route 66.
However, outside the city, I discovered that in my anxiety at leaving, I had forgotten my music Case. I wheeled around and headed back.

I found Nettie sleeping peace-fully. I hesitated by her bed; Something was strongly telling me to stay.

But eager to get on my way, and not wanting to disturb Nettie, I shrugged off the feeling and quietly slipped out of the room with my Music. The next night, in the steaming St. Louis heat, the crowd called On me to sing again and again..

When I finally sat down, a messenger boy ran up with a Western Union telegram.
I ripped open the envelope. Pasted on the yellow sheet were the words:

YOUR WIFE JUST DIED.

People were happily singing and clapping around me, but I could hardly Keep from crying out. I rushed to a phone and called home. All I could

Hear on the other end was 'Nettie is dead. Nettie is dead.'
When I got back, I learned that Nettie had given birth to a boy. I Swung between grief and joy. Yet that same night, the baby died. I Buried Nettie and our little boy together, in the same casket.

Then I fell apart.

For days I closeted myself. I felt that God had done me an injustice. I Didn't want to serve Him anymore or write gospel songs. I just wanted To go back to that jazz world I once knew so well. But then, as I Hunched alone in that dark apartment those first sad days, I thought
Back to the afternoon I went to St. Louis .
Something kept telling me to stay with Nettie.

Was that something God? Oh, if I had paid more
Attention to Him that day, I would have stayed and been with Nettie when she died.
From that moment on I vowed to listen more closely to Him. But still I Was lost in grief. Everyone was kind to me, especially a friend,

Professor Fry, who seemed to know what I needed.

On the following Saturday evening he took me up to Malone's Poro College, a neighborhood music school.
It was quiet; the late evening sun crept through the curtained windows I sat down at the piano, and my hands began to browse over the keys.
Something happened to me then. I felt at peace..
I felt as though I could reach out and touch God.

I found myself playing a melody, once into my head they just Seemed to fall into place:

'Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand!
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn,
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the Light,

Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.'
When my way grows drear, precious Lord linger near
When my life is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call,

Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.'

When my work is all done
And my race here is run
Let me see by the light Thou has shown
In that city so bright where the Lamb is the Light*
Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.'

*(Note : The Bible says in Revelation 21 V 23 that in the New Heaven, the future dwelling place of those who belong to Jesus, there is no need for the Sun nor the Moon because the the Lamb (Jesus) is the Light)

The Lord gave me these words and melody, He also healed my spirit. I Learned that when we are in our deepest grief, when we feel farthest From God, this is when He is closest, and when we are most open to His Restoring power. And so I go on living for God willingly and joyfully, Until that day comes when He will take me and gently lead me home.

What a story! A true story.

I'm Buss'n It!

I'm BACK! lol

As some of you already know, i have spent the past 4 days moving. The move went amazing and totally productive. Keep in mind, i have not really slept much. I cancelled a lot of what i had to do in order to make sure it ALL GOT DONE. I'm not the type of woman who can sit there and take weeks to put everything in it's place. I'm a neat freak and very organized...so i have to see it in it's place right away.

The boys think I'm a crazy lunatic for being so picky and on the nose, but oh well. God willing, they will leave home one day with some of those traits (as i did with my parents)

Today was the first day in days that i actually left the house. Guess what i did?
I woke up with the intentions on taking a bus to do all my running around....as i don't have to pay for transit since i work for transit. However, Captain and i took our sweet time getting ready and having breakfast and by the time i knew it, it was getting late. So i decided to take the car and park it at Captain's school and then do what i had to do from there.

I HAD SUCH AN AMAZING DAY!

I started off by going across the street to Bramalea Mall to check out their gym and also browse through the new section...but mainly because I'm looking for a new gym. One that is closer to what i need to do or closer to Captain's school. Well i found it, and got a membership. I can't wait to workout tomorrow morning.

Than i went JOB HUNTING. yes, that is right. I pay $20 a day on gas to and from work to mississauga. A day!!!! I figured since the weather is getting so nice, i can bus it to where i need to go. Taking a bus to Mississauga transit takes 2 hours and 15 minutes EACH way and costs me more than 500 a month JUST on gas. So i figured if i can find something walking distance from Captain's daycare, i will park the car for the summer. Look, i don't mind one bit getting on a bus. Whippy Doo! I'm not going to quit my Transit job, i will just go once or twice a week. YES i can do that. In case your wondering. Being that I'm part time, i can take 5 shifts a week or 1 shift a week. The beauty of working part time.
The wedding studio i work for is also one bus ride from the new house. So this is so ideal :-))))

So I'm excited to be buss'in it!!!! I will have all my writing stuff with me. My "current book"
Can you believe i got my entire business set up while taking a "bus"  a couple years ago?

People totally over exaggerate. Taking a bus is the only time you will ever have for yourself. While driving, your thinking NON-STOP and you are not relaxed at all.
If you have the option of taking a bus to work or school (or wherever) TAKE IT! Read a book, magazine, or just meditate/pray.

My favourite thing is to watch the city signs and people walking, running, rushing or just sitting around. I truly love the bus...and look forward to taking it.

Today, i feel so humble.

I'm Committing!

Lately, I have been thinking about my health A LOT. More than usual. Maybe it has something to do with having kids or getting older. I don't always make the right eating choices. However, i try. Yesterday while sitting with my "Happiness Project" group, i decided that i would commit to ORGANIC fruits and vegetables.

I tried the vegan thing, but it is not for me. I LOVE seafood and LIKE chicken and beef. Although i do not eat meat often, I do enjoy it a couple days a week. Besides, my boys LOVE it :-)

I understand that organic food is more expensive, but I'm going to commit to spending a few extra dollars and taking this serious. I do not want to say "I'm going to eat organic food" because the truth is, I can't afford that right now. Maybe one day. God willing.

I'm committed to starting with fruits and vegetables. Instead of spending $150 on groceries every 2 weeks i will be spending $200. Which in my opinion, is worth it for health purposes. I'm sure my kids will thank me in the ending.

In case you are interested in some valid points on organic foods, I'm going to paste what my group leader Kajah sent me yesterday. I really hope this can answer your questions regarding "organic" foods.
If you can't afford to go all organic, start with this list.

What organic means:

 

• Animals have not been treated with: antibiotics, growth hormones, or feed made from animal by-products.
• Animals must have been fed organic feed for at least a year.
• Animals must have access to the outdoors.
• Food hasn't been genetically modified or irradiated.
• Fertilizer does not contain sewage sludge or synthetic ingredients.
• Produce hasn't been contaminated with synthetic chemicals used as pesticides.
• What the labels mean:“100% Organic”: Product must contain 100 percent organic ingredients.
• “Organic”: At least 95 percent of ingredients are organically produced.
• “Made with Organic Ingredients”: At least 70 percent of ingredients are organic. The remaining 30 percent must come from the USDA’s approved list.

 

“Free-range” or “Free-roaming”: Misleading term applied to chicken, eggs and other meat. The animal did not necessarily spend a good portion of its life outdoors. The rule states only that outdoor access be made available for “an undetermined period each day.” U.S. government standards are weak in this area.

 

“Natural” or “All Natural”: Does not mean organic. There is no standard definition for this term except with meat and poultry products. (USDA defines “natural” as not containing any artificial flavouring, colors, chemical preservatives, or synthetic ingredients). The claim is not verified. The producer or manufacturer alone decides whether to use it.

 

The “Dirty Dozen”:

 

Must-buy organic foods

 

Apples

 

Cherries

 

Grapes, imported (Chili)

 

Nectarines

 

Peaches

 

Pears

 

Raspberries

 

Strawberries

 

Vegetables Bell peppers

 

Celery

 

Potatoes

 

Spinach

 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture found that even after washing, some fruits and vegetables consistently carry much higher levels of pesticide residue than others. Based on an analysis of more than 100,000 U.S. government pesticide test results, researchers at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a research and advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C., have developed the “dirty dozen” fruits and vegetables, above, that they say you should always buy organic, if possible, because their conventionally grown counterparts tend to be laden with pesticides. They cost about 50 percent more — but are well worth the money.

 

Other organic foods worth considering:

 

Milk

 

Beef

 

Poultry

 

Reduce the risk of exposure to the agent believed to cause mad cow disease and minimize exposure to other potential toxins in non-organic feed. These foods contain no hormones, and antibiotics — which have been linked to increased antibacterial resistance in humans — have not been added to the food. They often cost 100 percent more than conventional products.

 

No need to go organic with these foods:

 

Fruit Bananas

 

Kiwi

 

Mangos

 

Papaya

 

Pineapples

 

Vegetables Asparagus

 

Avocado

 

Broccoli

 

Cauliflower

 

Corn

 

Onions

 

Peas

 

These products generally do not contain pesticide residue.

 

Seafood
Wild or farmed fish can be labeled organic, despite the presence of contaminants such as mercury and PCBs. No USDA organic certification standards for seafood — producers are allowed to make their own organic claims.

 

Cosmetics

 

Having “organic” or “natural” in its name doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safer. Only 11 percent of ingredients found in personal-care products, organic or not, have ever been screened for safety.

 

Managing the high cost of organic foods:
Why does organic cost more?

 

Growing the food is more labor-intensive. And even though organic food is a growing industry, it doesn't have the economies of scale or government subsidies available to conventional growers.

 

 

Invest in YOU and your children! If you own a backyard, maybe you can start planting your own fruits and vegetables. Get the children to help. They will have a blast.

We need to start making the right choices.

 

 

What is Your Calling?

So many of us have no idea where we are going or what we want to do.

This was me a few years ago. Despite what i knew my "talents" were, i did not know how and where i would utilize them. I thought that whatever i loved to do, is what i would do at work. However, i could not find a job to apply to where i could use my "talent."

When i first started "D.e.v.a Event Planning Group" I knew i wanted to plan events and i also knew i had a passion for working with women and youth. I had been organizing events since i was in my early 20's and even earlier. As a young girl growing up when my mother and grandma were planning events at our house (my father was in the entertainment industry) I was right there by their side. In the kitchen and in the house decorating. I always had fascinating ideas and they welcomed them, so that made me feel special. Then as a young adult, i use to plan social gatherings. But private ones. For instance; private birthday parties, launch parties and private social gatherings. I have always been "pretty" good at it :-)))

When i started going to church at Prayer Palace and helping out with the ministry, this is where it was confirmed to me, that my calling was DEFINITELY event planning. However, not just "regular event planning" Like throwing parties and hosting events. I plan events with a special purpose. Like weddings, women's groups or pot lucks, youth events, community outreach, shelter events, and of course private functions. It was not long before i spoke with my ex and told him that i wanted to start an Event Planning Group focused on women. Months later I did it. Vanessa (a friend and former business partner) and i had a  launch "D.e.v.a Day" and we brought in over 200 women. It was a great success and since that day, i have not lost my vision or my calling!

Stay close to God in prayer and he will show you your calling and purpose.

What is it that you truly enjoy doing? What do you daydream about?

Before i started planning events (and still) I use to sit and day dream about working for a magazine publishing company. At times i visioned working for a fashion magazine, then a wedding magazine and at some point i even visioned starting my own magazine. This does not mean I will be working for one, it just tells me how much passion i have for fashion and event planning. You have to be able to look DEEPLY within your visions and see what God is showing you. If you love reading and writing, why not start writing a book? Eventually you can BECOME A WELL KNOWN and established AUTHOR. If you love doing your own make-up, why not become a professional make-up artist? Look, I'm not saying this will be your full time job NOW, but start it as a hobby for friends or family or on your free time and see what happens. The point is, you are doing something you love.

I even have a program that my friends Colleen, Natasha and i started called UNIQUE. We all share a deep passion for young girls and so we started this program...and we KNOW it was ordained by God. The three of us bring something UNIQUE to the table. From day one, it has been smooth sailing.

I have tried so many things and realized none of them were meant to be MINE! Just keep on going until you find it. I still work a 9-5pm for the city of mississauga. I won't be leaving that job until I'm secure enough and know that my kids will be OK.

I spoke with a friend yesterday morning; Tesha. The first thing she said to me after Happy Mother's Day was, "ohhhhhh my God Liz, you spoke over my life." I was like "huh" When she cut me off and said, "Liz a few months ago i told you i wanted to start a ministry and that i did not know what to do. I had approached my pastor but nothing had been done yet....i mentioned that i volunteered at a food bank and how good it made me feel and do you remember what you said to me?" It suddenly hit me. YESSSS of course i remember. I said, "Tesha ohhh my God that is your calling hun. That is your purpose... with Gods children and people. Your ministry does NOT have to start IN THE CHURCH. But it will be revealed to you by God. So be it in the church or at home, God will direct you. It came to me a few days ago. I saw you working with people. People in need and now you are telling me about this.....God wants you to start volunteering your time in shelters or communities and he will show you exactly what you need to be doing." B...I...N...G..O....
She then finished telling me the story about how she had this amazing conversation with the director and then spoke with her pastor and now they are starting the same ministry at the church. I mean what an amazing story. To God be the glory.

If you love working with youth or young people...maybe it is men, marriage counselling...whatever it is, do not wait for someone to come and tell you they have a job for you. GET UP and do something. It only takes prayer, and if you feel it is for sure what you know God wants from you and for you, DO IT!!!!

A bit of advice, DO NOT let the hard times make you QUIT! Never quit. Even if you have no money, there is always somewhere to start! Reach out to your community. They will help you.
Another thing, even if there is NO MONEY involved stay faithful/dedicated and God will see your heart!

Love, Liz

A Mother's Love

When i woke up this morning, i wondered "how did i get here?" To a place of such joy and comfort. To a place where i know despite what life may bring my way, i will always be ok. I will not end up in an old age home, as long as my boys are here. I will not have to work in my old age years because my boys promise to take care of me.
Where did all these blessings come from?

Well i will tell you; i have done the best that i could for all these years. Becoming a mother at 18 was by far NOT an easy thing. Many days or nights i did not know how i was going to feed my boy. But i made a way. No matter what i had to do, i did it. My first priority was my son. While i was out running around "being a kid" my mind was always on my son. There were days and nights i cried myself to sleep, not knowing what was "next." But we made it. I constantly taught him the "foundations of life." I made sure he never forgot the "commandments" and many days we discussed why they were so important.

My boys are the reason I'm breathing. The reason i make the decisions i make. A mother always and forever will think "twice" one for her children and THEN herself. There is nothing i do where i do not put them first. Nothing. Everyone i go, whether it is with my boys or not, they come with me. Even while I'm having my morning coffee, they are on my mind.

To my foster son Kirk- Never ever doubt yourself. You are such an amazing and special man. You are smart and faithful. I thank God for sending you into my life. I'm the luckiest mom in the world to have you. I want you to know that as long as I'm living, you will always have a home!

Today, i felt an amazing feeling of joy as i looked at my boys. I thanked God for all that he has given me and all that he has taken from me. Because i have learned not to argue with the Lord. He is the almighty and will always see you through.

Now i would like to say to my birth mother, I love You and i know you did the best you could. Trust me mom. I know!!!! You are a strong woman and have been through so much. It could not be easy to do what you did and still survive. I thank you for all the life lessons i learned from you but above all FOR SHOWING me how to be a survivor. E teamo!
THANK YOU

To my mommy JOY- God what do i say? You are and were my rock. A place i knew and still know i can run to for a comforting voice. You are one of, if not the strongest woman i have ever met. You have never judged. You wear your heart on your sleeve. Your door is always open. Even for the homeless men or animals. You taught me what it is like to LOVE! You always said through it all, "It's ok Liz, they did the best they could." Mommy i don't know what i would have done without you. Thank you soo much for caring for Keeno and considering Captain as your grand child even though he is not your blood. Thank you For loving me. For always being there when i needed you. Thank you for not shutting your door, when others did. Above all thank you for understating me. The REAL me. I love you mommy.

I feel so amazing to be alive and healthy. I feel so blessed to have three boys at home that I'm sooo proud of. All of them.

To all the mothers out here, LOVE yourself deeply. You deserve the BEST in life!

Why Hire A Wedding Planner for South Asian Wedding..?

One of our very talented In-House Wedding Planners at Neha M. Chopra Trade Sensation Studios wrote this amazing article for our site.

Please read:
The Importance of hiring a Wedding Co-ordinator for South Asian weddingsSouth Asian Weddings are events of spectacular proportions. As South Asian weddings grow larger, longer and just more ornate, there is a growing need for wedding planners. Rich in detail and filled with unique customs, Indian Weddings are an experience like no other. Hiring a Wedding Planner can be a true blessing as it can relieve stress, save time and money for the Bridal couple and their families. Most brides-to-be are busy working women who have limited free time to spend on their wedding plans. It is at this time that a planner can step in and help take over some of the responsibilities.


As a first home buyer, would you buy a house without a Real Estate Agent? You probably would not because the agents know the market, the sellers and the houses that can best fit your budget, location and needs. In short the real estate agent can save you time, money and stress which are closely related to what a Wedding Planner can do. Do you still think Wedding Planners are unnecessary expense?

It is important to remember that your parents and bridal party deserve to enjoy your Wedding as much as you do. Let’s face it … when you describe your South Asian wedding to your co-workers they are usually in awe over the number of guests and all of the details. A typical Indian wedding can easily include 400-500 guests. Sure, you have plenty of family who can help you out with planning, but are all of them qualified to deal with last-minute problems? By delegating responsibilities to a professional, you remove the pressure, stress and panics. They help assist you in transforming your dream into a reality while staying within budget. Wedding Planners will ensure that on your big day everything and everyone will be in the right place at the right time.

Don’t forget that hiring a wedding planner can also save you money. Wedding planners have strong relationships with wedding vendors in your area and can often secure discounts on items you will need to purchase. By utilizing the list of vendors, the Wedding Planner can vouch for the service of those vendors and save you time as they would have the prices available as well or do some research for you and find the right vendor that fits your budget. You can benefit from their experience and connection with vendors. It is important to ask the planner if he or she has multiple vendors in each category. This will guarantee that you are receiving a variety of design and budget options from each category of vendors. Also find out if the planner will be open to working with vendors who are not on their list.

Wedding Planner’s or also commonly known as Bridal Consultants helps manage the mountain of paperwork, the endless emails, and perpetual phone calls; keep everything on budget and on time. When couples and families cannot agree on certain matter, planners are also there to iron out any conflicts and stresses. They keep abreast of the latest trends, can advise on costs, negotiate contracts and secure you the best deals ensuring great value.

At Trade Sensation Events we are an exquisite team of 7 Wedding Planners specializing in all different cultures and rituals. Our packages for Wedding planning can be customized and range from $1000- $3500. Our team philosophy stems from an understanding that we are here to help create an experience that should last a lifetime in the hearts and minds of you “Our Client”, and all of your guests.


We have been getting a lot of traffic for South Asian Weddings and we are totally excited about venturing into the beautiful aspects of these weddings.
If you have a freind getting married and would like some help or would like A LOT of help :-)
Leave it up to us......call us today or visit our website at http://www.tradesensation.com/

I'm Affected for Life!

I must admit i have not been doing too good with my fitness since i got back from my trip. I have not worked out in weeks. No i have not gained weight, i have actually lost a few pounds. I feel awful. I really do. I don't work out to loose weight. I only weigh 115. I work out to feel good about myself inside/out. I work out to maintain my healthy mind body and soul. The "inner-self" is very important to me. Having said this, if I'm not physical, i feel so drained and even tired. There is no excuse. Ok so i have been busy with my new house and planning my move etc, but that has nothing to do with why i have not been to the gym or went walking/running.

When i was in Punta Cana i went running and walking every morning bright and early. I got my breakfast, writing and running out of the way by 8AM and off to the beach i went to lay under a parked umbrella (can't remember what we call those things lol)

Recently, Kirk (my foster son) Captain and i watched "Super Size Me" Yes i know I'm late. the documentary is old and many of you have already seen it. I can't believe i have never seen it before. I have heard many speak about it, but never seen it. I was AFFECTED FOR LIFE! 

For those of you who do not know what Super Size me is...it is a documentary film directed by and starring Morgan Spurlock, an American independent filmmaker. The documentary takes place over thirty days. Morgan eats only McDonald's food during this time period, and documents all the results. Step by step. His three meals a day consisted of eating every item on the McDonald's menu during the thirty day period, and each time he was offered to "super size" the meal, he said YES. That was apart of the deal he made himself.
The documentary takes you through the extreme changes that Spurlock underwent due to his food choices. takes a look at the subject of obesity in the United States, specifically zeroing in on the business and culture surrounding the nation's fast-food industry in this 2004 documentary. Before starting the experiment he was thoroughly checked by three doctors and healthy specialists who all confirmed he was in outstanding health. The doctors all continued to monitor him closely during the thirty day time period. Morgan also consulted with an exercise physiologist and a dietitian. They also concluded that his health and fitness levels were above average. He limited himself to walking under two and a half miles each day, and did not do any other forms of exercise.

During the experiment, Morgan consumed approximately 5,000 calories per day...and gained twenty five pounds during the thirty days. There were also many effects on his health. Including his "kidney failing"
Losing the weight took him over fourteen months.

Super Size Me was nominated for an Academy Award for Documentary Feature1

The facts that i learned from this documentary blew my mind.
•McDonald's feeds more than 46 million people a day - more than the entire population of Spain



•60 percent of all Americans are either overweight or obese


•Only seven items on McDonald's entire menu contain no sugar


•McDonald's represents 43% of total U.S. fast food market


•In 1972, the US spent 3 billion a year on fast food - today the US spend more than $110 billion2


Not to mention, after 10 days he gained 10 pounds. He had an instant pop belly after days. He consumed 30 POUNDS of sugar which was shown in the end in huge bowls. That equalled to 12 pounds of fat (they also showed the fat in a big tube)
The documentary showed us how McNuggets are made. That was sick!!! If i were to ask almost all parents their children favourite meal from Mc'd's they were almost certainly say McNuggets. Put it this way, it is the LEFT OVERS of the chicken. The chickens they use are the ones that are "somewhat old and sick" Ahhh just thinking about it makes me want to puke.

Please give yourself what you deserve and stop eating this stuff. Seriously it is not ONE BIT good. Make your children watch the video. Let's make a difference in how long we live by changing our meals and what we feed for our bodies and our children's bodies. I'm so sad to see what American and Canadian people are doing to themselves. I probably eat this stuff like once a month and even that i will NOT be doing. I usually get the wraps. But after seeing what kind of chicken they use; no more!!!!!!!!

Do yourself a HUGE favour and watch this video PLEASE!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1Lkyb6SU5U


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Healthy Me Workshop

Healthy Me Workshop Saturday April 30 2011

What a day...what a day....

Without doubt, Colleen, Natasha and i all knew that God would see us through another workshop. There were moments where i doubted a bit. I don't know why....maybe it is the way I'm accustomed to thinking when I'm planning an event. It is the NORM for me. However, i should know better when it comes to UNIQUE. This is a program that has DEF be ordained by God in our lives. From the very start there has been nothing we have prayed for and have not seen. All we want as a group is to deliver love and compassion to Gods children. When the three of us get together, we don't even put much effort into planning our programs. It just flows. Hhmmm sound familiar. Remember once i said, "When God in in the midst of something, it will just flow."

This past Saturday, The Healthy Me Workshop was a great success. Many girls lives were touched and inspired. But above all, Natasha, Colleen and i were truly moved. We had such an amazing time interacting and even dancing with the girls. We laughed, conversed, ate and were truly in UNITY!
We had cute treat bags filled with treats that would leave the girls remembering the day. Like water bottles with our logos, stress balls, watches, health bars etc.
Rogers TV was there to capture the entire day.

Daniella rocked the house with her fitness dance moves and educated the girls on what exercises to do from the comfort of their own home. What not to eat and what to include in their diets. How much water to drink and when. Even us ladies got a few great "pointers"

We totally look forward to our upcoming Unique Camp Day which will include an outdoor barbecue and entertainment, vendors booth-spa & pedicures, massages and much more.

Saturday August 13 2011

12:00 PM-5:00PM

Central Public Recreation and Arts Centre

24 Alexander St.

(Main / Queen - Brampton)

Call 416-832-3909 or email info.bunique@gmail.com to save your spot.

Come out and have a blast with other young women from all walks of life.
If you are interested in showing off some talent this day, please give us a call.

P.S
To all the mothers reading this blog, please encourage your daughters to come out to our workshops and events. Their future is in your hands! Make the best of it.

Please check out my "LIVE DEVA" YouTube page for videos http://www.youtube.com/user/devainyou?feature=mhum