The makings of a Phenomenal Woman

It's been a few months but....I'm BACK!

2008-03-27T10:14:00.002-05:00

It has been at least three months since I last posted anything on this blog, but I am back. Things have been slow but steadily chaotic in my life but I need to follow through and make this blog into a success like I hope it will be. Sooooo...with that said, let's get back to business1

2007-12-03T08:06:00.000-06:00

Well it's been a least a few days since I last posted anything. So much is going on in my life that I haven't been motivated to write much. I was moved by a sermon that my pastor preached on yesterday and I felt that it might encourage someone else to hear a portion of the scripture that the message came from:

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength;they shall mount up with wings as EAGLES they shall run, and not be weary;and they shall walk, and not faint"
-Isaiah 40:31

Also, here a corresponding inspirational piece of writing that I found that stems from the above scripture:

Did you know that an eagle knows when a storm is approaching long before it breaks? The eagle will fly to some high spot and wait for the winds to come.
When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it above the storm. While the storm rages, below the eagle is soaring above it. The eagle does not escape the storm, it simply uses the storm to lift it higher. It rises on the winds that bring the storm.
When the storms of life come upon us ... and all of us will experience them ... we can rise above them by setting our minds and our belief toward God.
The storms do not have to overcome us, we can allow God's power to lift us above them. God enables us to ride the winds of the storm that bring sickness, tragedy, failure, and disappointment into our lives. We can soar above the storm.
Remember, it is not the burdens of life that weigh us down, it is how we handle them.
~ Author Unknown ~

Stay in prayer...for yourself and others. Be Blessed!

Don’t be afraid of your strength

2007-11-23T06:11:00.000-06:00

As a woman sometimes we have to face the reality that we will are/have to be the backbone, strength, and light in our families and relationships. There will be times when you want to give in and stop fighting. There will be times when the situation will get the best of you and you will just curl into a ball and become overwhelmed with a combination of emotions. There will be times when you will just let the emotion get the best of you and you will just scream and even cry. There will be times when you will cry out to God and ask “Why me?” He said he would never put more on you than you can bare, but sometimes it will feel like he has more faith in you than you do in yourself. At these times, you have to surround yourself around strong individuals. Not those persons who are physically strong but those seasoned persons who have been where you are; people who are spiritually strong.
People you love will break your heart and disappoint you, that’s life and it’s unavoidable. The key is to stand up for what you know is right. Sometimes you will have to stand alone but that doesn’t mean you are wrong, but standing alone can make your fight that much harder. It’s all a test of your faith. God already has everything planned and knows how the story will end. He is preparing you for something bigger than we you are going through right now. The struggle is to prepare you. Pray until something happens. Pray that you are in the condition and mind frame to receive that in which God has in store for you.

For those of you who are married and even in committed relationships, it takes work to keep it together. It is not all fun and laughs-hugs and kisses. There will be days when it seems that you are the only one who wants the marriage to work. There will be other days where you want to just give in and end it. Don’t let the devil have his way in your life. Things will happen, feelings will be hurt, but if the two of you have the love and the will to try; ask God to be in the mist of all and it will be blessed. It’s not an overnight process and it can’t be a one sided effort. It takes both of the individuals giving their all to compromise, understand, listen, respect, and put the other first above all others for the relationship to begin to get where it needs to be. Ladies sometimes you will have to be that voice and strength to keep things positive and together. Do what you must if you believe in potential of your union. The bible says the man should be the head of the household, and you should follow that; but sometimes you have to be the voice of reasoning and that’s ok. Stay in prayer for your mate as well as yourself. There will be times when you will have to be the stronger person and other times when you will be the weaker of the two. The important thing is that the commitment is there and won’t be easily forgotten or minimized. If that is in place, you will always know that your better half has your back and will walk with you in your time of weakness and need.

My message is, sometimes as women our strength can be viewed as overpowering and can drive people away. Sometimes a woman is so independent and strong-minded that she can drive people away because of her unwillingness or experience to depend on others-even her mate. This is when our strength can be compared to a two-edged sword. Ladies, we have to learn how be strong, take care of ourselves and families without pushing away the ones who want to love us and take care of us. It’s hard and it will take time. The hardest part sometimes is trying to convince those who love you that you are trying to make that change. Ask God to put understanding in their hearts and help them to understand that you are mindful of the problem and are acknowledging your fault. Admitting you are at fault is big and should be commended. When your efforts are not being acknowledged, stay in prayer and continue to stand strong. Even though there is a battle going on within yourself to change something that you have become accustomed to, you have to pull strength from somewhere to keep those people you love close to you and those relationships in tack. Pray for the words to speak that will help them to better understand and be compassionate to what you are going through and why you are the person you are.

Always be woman enough to admit your faults, but never apologize for your strength.

Top Jobs in America

2007-11-15T07:36:00.000-06:00

1. Registered nurses: $52,330
2. Postsecondary teachers: $51,800
3. General and operations managers: $77,420
4. Elementary school teachers, except special education: $43,160
5. Accountants and auditors: $50,770
6. Business operation specialists, all others: $53,460
7. Computer software engineers, applications: $74,980
8. Maintenance and repair workers, general: $30,710
9. Carpenters: $34,900
10. Computer systems analysts: $66,460
11. Secondary school teachers, except special and vocational education: $45,650
12. Computer software engineers, systems software: $79,740
13. Physicians and surgeons: $145,600
14. Network systems and data communications analysts: $60,600
15. Automotive service technicians and mechanics: $32,450
16. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses: $33,970
17. Management analysts: $63,450
18. Computer support specialists: $40,430
19. Lawyers: $94,930
20. Network and computer systems administrators: $58,190
21. Police and sheriff's patrol officers: $45,210
22. Middle school teachers, except special and vocational education: $43,670
23. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters: $41,290
24. Financial managers: $81,880
25. Computer and information systems managers: $92,570
26. Sales representatives, services, all other: $47,000
27. Firefighters: $38,330
28. Dental hygienists: $58,350
29. Paralegals and legal assistants: $39,130
30. Sales managers: $84,220
31. Chief executives: $140,350
32. Self-enrichment education teachers: $30,880
33. Physical therapists: $60,180
34. Pharmacists: $84,900
35. Medical and health services managers: $67,430
36. Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, technical and scientific products: $58,580
37. Employment, recruitment, and placement specialists: $41,190
38. Property, real estate, and community association managers: $39,980
39. Child, family, and school social workers: $34,820
40. Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers: $36,260
41. Real estate sales agents: $35,670
42. Special education teachers, preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school: $43,570
43. Legal secretaries: $36,720
44. Training and development specialists: $44,570
45. First-line supervisors/managers of housekeeping and janitorial workers: $29,510
46. Administrative services managers: $60,290
47. Public relations specialists: $43,830
48. Radiologic technologists and technicians: $43,350
49. Sales and related workers, all others: $31,380
50. Personal financial advisors: $62,700

Here is a list of the top jobs in America that I found while researching for this article. I gathered from the poll I listed a few weeks ago that a few of you would like to see articles pertaining to careers. In order for me to bring that information to you, I need your input as to what information in specifically that you are seeking. Training? Education? Pay compensation? Certifications? Companies? Locations? Be mindful that the figures listed above depend upon location and mostly likely education and experience. The figures are suppose to be the average salary compensation. To calculate pay compensation for a specific field in your area, visit. www.salary.com. I am currently in the technical support career field. I possess a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Science, but I have found certifications shine/weigh more heavily in this field majority of the time. Employers want individuals with professional certifications, hands-on work experience in additional to education. Often, if the applicant has enough experience and the right certifications, they will employ that individual over someone with a degree in that field. What career field are you currently pursuing? What advice could you offer to someone looking to advance in that field or in any career?

Winter season hair styles and color

2007-11-14T07:07:00.000-06:00

It's getting cold and you know what that means...it's not only time to bring out the winter clothes, it's important we protect our hair from the colder climate. Currently, I am wearing my hair in flat twist that are styled up in a bun. I had some dark brown streaks added around this time last year, but no color change since than. Not only does this style free me from using heating tools and having to handle my hair, but its a style that I can keep my hair moisturized and protected from the colder climate. As I stated before, I am in the process of growing my hair out so I am researching styles that would achieve that goal. I have found that braids, up-do's, and some weaves are good for the winter months...if you maintain them properly. Here is a link I found that gives some good hair care tips for the winter months. http://www.haircareguide.com/winter.htm.

What hair styles and color will you be rocking this fall/winter season?

P.U.S.H.= Pray Until Something Happens

2007-11-13T07:10:00.000-06:00

We are frequently faced with things that are out of our control. Sometimes its hard to deal with this fact, but these are the times that we must keep our faith and pray. I am guilty of praying when times are bad, and even thanking God for awhile when results happen. The problem with that is, my church attendance tends to slack off and prayers tend to go from multiple times a day to before bed at night. The key is to pray everyday, no matter what the situation is. We have to learn to trust, believe, and thank God everyday for his grace. We should think him for things he delivered us from 5 years ago, yesterday, and even things that have yet to occur. Surround yourself around people who are where you are in your christian walk and/or further along . These people become very useful /important when you are going through trials and tribulations in your life. They will be the people you can turn to for anything from relationships to just staying focused and strong. Believe me, thank yourself for making the decision. What are you currently praying for??

Racism tension in 2007...is this real?

2007-10-31T07:07:00.000-05:00

Why does it seem that all of our little dirty secrets are starting to surface more and more. I know discrimination, hate crimes, injustice, etc have around forever, but why now. Why is everything happening?? To make things, worse there are people who hate their own kind. For me, it goes without saying that I love my african-american people, but for some people, this couldn't be further from the truth. What boggles my mind is when people disassociate themselves with people of their own race. It's sad enough that there are hate organizations in this world that don't like an entire group of people based on the color of their skin alone, but to hate the race in which you are a member is pure ignorance to me. There have been countless forums and studies done on this topic and the things these people say always seem to amaze me. Their reasonings behind hating their own race are so ridiculous it really makes you feel sorry for them. Check out this recap of a show Tyra Banks did not this topic earlier this year. http://tyrashow.warnerbros.com/show_recaps/show_recap_mon74.html What's your perspective on the topic. If you are one of these people, please share you story and opinions.

...On my journey of growth (October 2007)

2007-10-28T17:22:00.000-05:00

So....I want this website to be a way to achieve growth in many aspects. One of the areas which my not be as essential is the growth of my hair. As woman (African-American) it sometimes seems as if achieving maximum growth is impossible...or not what we want it to be. About a year and a half ago, my hair was the longest it had every been; a little below the shoulder. It was long and healthy. Due to the change in weather because of my change of location (moved from South Carolina to Oklahoma) as well as a hair boo-boo, my hair is not where is use to be. The biggest change is that I don't go to a stylist frequently like I did during that time. I know some of you can understand how hard it is to find a good stylist who actually listens to what you want and cares enough to tell you when they aren't capable of achieving that goal. Since I've been in Oklahoma, I haven't been able to find a stylist that really meets my needs, which I think are sooooo basic. I would like to achieve a head of healthy hair at it's maximum length. I usually wear wraps (roller, doobie, or flat), straw sets, and sometimes braids. Lately I have been wearing weaves to try to give my natural hair a rest, but I really would like to continue to wear wraps and such because I like to wear my natural (relaxed) hair. Sooo...I have said all of that to say, I am on a mission to have long healthy hair and will welcome any suggestions or tips. Currently, trying a growth regimen I found at http://www.growafrohairlong.com/. If anyone reading this has ideas, stories, or is growing their hair as well, please share. If you have pictures...feel free to post them so we can celebrate your progress as well.

It's about that time again!

2007-10-26T14:14:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again where we all have to pack up our spaghetti straps and peep wedges and pull out our sweaters and stiletto boots. I love wearing different types of clothes and styles but sometimes I have an issue with putting that extra "tang" on outfits that will make them stand out. I have a closet full of sneakers but lack dressy/casual boots and things that I really adore and love. I tend to buy pieces rather than outfits. So when its time to put together something nice...I have a whole bunch of things that don't necessary mesh. I think I have eye for spotting nice clothes that don't cost an arm and leg...I just could use a little "boost" on the coordination of it all. What are some of your techniques and "how-to's" for setting trends and standing out in a crowd?

2007-10-25T06:26:00.000-05:00

Relationships are something that we cannot avoid. We will always have to develop a relationship with someone whether good or bad. It is up to us to make the decision of whether that relationship will be a positive or negative one in our lives. There are a number of things that factor into how we perceive and accept people. For me, how I feel about myself and how I feel I am viewed more than often plays a factor in how I react and socialize with others. This can be and has proven to be a dangerous and stressful way to live. When you aren't sure of yourself and who you are as a person, it will affect they way love and act around others...even the people who love you most. I am a testimony of this and can tell you that you MUST change that immediately. You will put relationships and life as you know it in jeopardy because of the distant, isolated personality that portray. When you aren't sure of yourself, you tend to build a wall and not open up and love others the way you should. Relationships of every kind being marriages, friendships, family, etc will be affected negatively. People who you love and who love you will start to feel neglected and uncomfortable around you because that is the way you treat them. I was told by someone very important to me that he felt that I seemed uncomfortable around him and that my happiness seemed forced. WOW!! That is something that will make you think and put things in perspective. This person happens to be my husband. Things aren't always as good as they should be in relationships because one or both parties aren't opening up and giving their all to the relationship in every way; mentality, physically, emotionally. The reasons for not doing so can come from anywhere and be for hundreds of reasons. The key is be open with the people you love...tell them how you feel so that they will be given the opportunity to understand; and possibly help you to overcome. Laugh, cry, joke, argue, fuss...don't hold back. Putting things out in the open will ensure that everyone involved understands what they are faced with and from there can address them. People can't change what you don't know is a problem. If you truly love someone and want him/her to be apart of your world; treat them that way. Make those people feel like they are important and that you want them around....or end up alone. What's your take on this??