Comfort Haven

Jay Abraham...anyone?

2010-07-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

I'm currently reading Jay Abraham's,Getting Everything You Can Out Of All You've Got.

I know the title is really long, but the book is mind-blowing awesome! I'm wondering if anyone else has read Jay Abraham's books? I borrowed this copy from my local library, but I intend to buy a copy for myself.

If you've read any of his books, what do you think? Feel free to share.

It's good to be back

2010-07-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

Well....thanks to all who contacted me while I was away. I appreciate each and everyone of you for your kind thoughts and warm wishes.

It's great to be back and I'm all fired up :).

More book reviews to come very soon.

CRUSH IT! by Gary Vaynerchuk

2010-03-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

This book was an easy and quick read with 142 pages. Being a quick read doesn't mean you won't find yourself returning to it again.

CRUSH IT! is about the power of social media in today's world.It shows you how to utilise,Twitter, Facebook,Blogs and all the other social networking platforms, to build a brand for yourself and your business. It is such a fun book to read and you'll feel like Gary is an old friend.

The book doesn't give you any false impression about the amount of work involved, it lets you know from the very beginning that building a brand takes work, hard work. But it really does pay off in the end.

After reading this book, I finally understood the maze called, Twitter and why it's an essential tool in business. It doesn't matter if your business is online or offline. If you are like me and do not "get" how these social networking platforms help your business, then you need to read this book.

I highly recommend CRUSH IT. Five, awesome and well-deserved stars to you, Gary!

Book Reviews

2010-03-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

Finally,I'm back to writing book reviews. I'll be reviewing motivational and business books geared mostly towards women in business. I am not a paid reviewer,but I do write reviews for Book Sneeze and if you love to read, you should consider doing this yourself.

My reviews will state my opinion only. Ultimately, the decision to buy a book I recommend is yours.If you decide to purchase from the Amazon link below, I'll make a commission and thank you for your business:)

Time for Change

2010-02-17T20:54:00.000-08:00

Well.....after much thought and consideration, the direction of this blog will be changing in a few days.

I'll be focusing on book reviews here and moving all other subjects to my new blog which is still in progress.

Chimamanda Adichie: The danger of a single story | Video on TED.com

2010-02-13T21:32:00.000-08:00

We have all been guilty of the danger of a single story and this video describes it so well.

Chimamanda Adichie: The danger of a single story | Video on TED.com

Fantastic Quotes for Friday

2010-02-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

This week has been filled with a good dose of motivation from every angle. I have
been motivated even by the most unlikely circumstance. I found something positive
in good situations and not-so-good situations alike. Things like clients who
promise to get back to you about payment and do not, or web designers who
disappoint you after you have paid for a job? I chose to react positively in the
face of negativity. I cannot control how other people choose to behave, but I can control my own reaction
This hasn't always been the case, sometimes I could be very cynical and I do
believe there is a time and place for cynicism. You possibly cannot assume everyone
has good intentions or, has your best interests at heart.
These are a few of my favourite quotes that come to mind when I'm having a rough day:

Giving thanks always for all things unto God- Ephesians 5:20

Anger makes dull men witty, but it keeps them poor. - Elizabeth I, 1533-1603

I'm going to get through this; I'm going to be fine. The power to do it is all in my mind.
- Cindy Wagner

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. - Herm Albright, 1876-1944

Perfection does not exist - you can always do better and you can always grow.
--Les Brown

Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy. - Anne Frank, 1929-1945

How do you cope when you are having a rough one? You are most welcome to share it with us, you may be encouraging someone :)

KNOCKOUT ENTREPRENUER: A Book Review

2010-02-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

I was reluctant to review this book. I was so certain it was going to be a very, "boring-put-me-to-sleep" kind of book. After reading reviews by others who had read it, I decided to give it a try. I was in for a pleasant surprise,and found this book to be insightful and motivational.
The KNOCKOUT ENTREPRENEUR was written by George Foreman(a two-time Heavyweight Champion). It is a business book filled with principles and strategies to help you succeed.

From the publisher's website:

Readers remember George Foreman as the former Heavyweight Boxing Champion and the spokesman for the popular George Foreman Grill. What they may not know is that he is also a successful entrepreneur whose portfolio today boasts the George Foreman Grill, George Foreman's Knockout Cleaner, a line of clothing with Casual Male, fitness videos, Elgin watches, and much more. In Knockout Entrepreneur, Foreman shares his success secrets with aspiring and current entrepreneurs.

This is a motivational book. I enjoyed reading every chapter. Chapter 5-tells you to do the unexpected, to be counter intuitive.To do the opposite of what people expect you to do. In the same breath,he encourages you to be humble. He states that the most aggressive thing you can do, is be humble. The reason he encourages this, is because meekness is not weakness, but power under control.I found that very contrary to the message you read in most business books. Where it is often recommended that you toot your own horn.

There are important nuggets in this book that will help you in business and in life.

Jumping Into 2010: The First Step to Success is Getting Started

2010-02-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

This is a story that is so beautiful I just had to share it with you. It is a story about a mom’s determination and persistence. This story means a lot to me because without meaning to, she motivated me and so many others to rise up, drop our excuses and make that change.
I was thrilled when I asked her to be a guest blogger and she agreed.
I hope you enjoy this very motivational true story shared by Ja’Net herself; a very empowering post. Enjoy!

Theody

Here we are, one month into the beginning of a brand new decade...

It's time to stop and take a moment to think about what we've accomplished so far. Chances are that when the ball dropped signalling the beginning of 2010 you probably made a resolution or two, or maybe you set a few goals to accomplish throughout the course of the year? Have you lived up to your expectations so far?
With the dawn of the new decade upon us, many people feel like it's time for change, but don't know how to get started or are intimidated by the idea of actually changing something about their lifestyle. I know exactly how you feel because I felt that way also.
Do you want to get in shape, but don't know how to get started? Perhaps you want to find that special someone but are scared of rejection? Or maybe, you want to be able to work from home so that you can help your family financially while still taking care of the kids? Regardless of what you want to do, you can't do anything if you don't try.
It might seem hard or intimidating to get started, but by taking small steps you can do those things that you think are impossible and you can do them now. In fact, the sooner you start the sooner you will find yourself on the road to success.
How can I say that with such a strong and confident tone? I can say it, because I know it's true.
My story starts out when my family came into hard times financially, just like everyone else has recently. With my significant other working from 9-5 Monday through Friday and a toddler in the house I needed to find a flexible job that would work with our schedule. I couldn't find affordable childcare or an out of the home job that would allow me to work evenings so I turned to the internet with a barrel full of doubts, a skeptical attitude and the knowledge that if this didn't work, we would find ourselves falling deeper and deeper into debt.
My goals were modest. All I wanted to do was earn enough to put food on the table each week and keep gas in our Jeep. In October I decided that I would baby step my way up to making $400 a month, or $100 a week, by the end of 2009. My journey began with a few "Get Paid To" sites and survey sites as well as a meager goal of earning $200 in my first month. Not only did I reach my goal, but I even exceeded it, and I continued to do so through the rest of 2009.
Over the last quarter of the year I picked up some private clients and began writing as my confidence grew. As I branched out into new waters my earnings flourished. My goals for the last three months of 2009, and my actual earnings, were as follows:

October's Goal: $200 - October's Earnings: $239.23
November's Goal: $300 - November's Earnings: $777.28
December's Goal: $400 - December's Earnings: $1,192.85

And this was all from the comfort of my own home, with no investments and no schedule commitments.
By the time December rolled around, I was kicking myself on a daily basis. My significant other and I sat down one evening and I vented for over an hour about how upset I was for not doing this sooner. For over a year I had been unemployed and had deemed our situation hopeless after being unable to find any work outside of the home, but it turned out that I had the ability to make a decent income at my fingertips the whole time. While I was scrounging the internet and applying for job after job, I could have been legitimately making money from home instead if I had just swallowed my doubts and cynicism and plunged into it.
Whatever it is that you want to do this year can be achieved if you take a deep breath and dive head first into it in 2010. Whether it's losing weight, finding love or discovering a way to work from home, you can do it if you put your doubts and fears in check and take a chance. Don't fool yourself into thinking it's impossible like I did or you'll be kicking yourself later on just like I did.

J. Powell is a young mother with a rambunctious little boy and a passion for helping others. Her work at home journey began in late September of 2009 and has been going strong ever since. She hopes to help as many families as possible learn how to benefit from legitimate work from home jobs. You can learn more about J and her journey visit here

Fat Flush Smoothie Shakedown: My Experience

2010-01-31T16:14:00.000-08:00

I mentioned my friend's success with the Fat Flush Plan here. Feeling very encouraged and motivated I decided to try it out for myself.
This decision wasn't made easily I assure you, I had fallen off the wagon way too many times and i didn't want to set myself up for failure again. I was always trying something new and never seeing it through. You get the picture.
I weighed in today and, "what do you know?!" I have definitely lost five whooping pounds. My starting weight was 198pounds. Boy!I can't believe I actually admitted to that! I'll be posting my before and after pictures here for all to see. I hope you stay tuned, and enjoy this awesome journey I have finally committed to completing.
You are welcome to share your success story with us. It doesn't have to be about weight,we'd like to celebrate with you too.

The miracle in Haiti

2010-01-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt like completely overwhelmed by life and its many worries? Have you ever felt like you were drowning in the sea of life's troubles? If you could put the way you felt into words, what words would you use to describe how you felt?
"Choked", "overwhelmed", "scared", "frustrated" and the list goes on and on and on.

Now imagine a real life situation, and being under real debris for fourteen or more days? Simply unimaginable right? That is the miracle that has been happening in Haiti. Survivors being found under all that rubble. What joy! A testimony like no other, to say the least.

I hope the miracles in Haiti encourage you to hang in there. No matter what you may be going through today, it doesn't matter how long you may have been in an unpleasant situation, miracles still happen and they can happen to you.

My heartfelt thanks to all the rescuers, and the aid workers, and every individual who has helped Haiti in any and every way. Thank you !

Haiti.....and the lessons I have learnt

2010-01-21T18:19:00.000-08:00

Tell all my mourners
To mourn in red –
Cause there ain’t no sense
In my bein’ dead.

Langston Hughes,
(1902 – 1967)

It is with utter dismay and shock that the world has helplessly watched Haiti crumble. So sudden, so terrible, horrific and completely devastating. Who has control over natural disasters? Who can calm nature when she lashes out?
The Earthquake in Haiti has destroyed many lives and has probably changed the destiny of a few. But it has also shown that we must live each day as if it were our last day on earth.
I have learnt that I must forgive very quickly, find reason to laugh a whole lot more, and remember to tell my loved ones how much I love them daily. I can't even imagine how people who lost loved ones in Haiti feel right now? No chance to say goodbye or to give one last hug?
The devastation may have happened in Haiti, but we are all casualties.The poem by one of my favorite poets
John Pepper Clark Bekederemo- The Casualities, really describes it well as I'm sure you will agree. Excerpts below.

THE CASUALTIES
by John Pepper Clark Bekederemo
(1935 - Present)

The casualties are not only those who are dead;
They are well out of it.
The casualties are not only those who are wounded,
Though they await burial by installment
The casualties are not only those who have lost
Person or property, hard as it is
To grasp for a touch that some
May not know is not there
The casualties are not those led away by night;
The cell is a cruel place, sometimes a heaven,
No where as absolute as the grave
The casualties are not those who started
A fire and now cannot put to out. Thousands
Are burning that had no say in the matter.
The casualties are not only those who escaping
The shattered shell become prisoners in
A fortress of falling walls.

Face Your Fears to Succeed

2010-01-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

This week I have the privilege of having; Bud-The Common Sense Guy, as a guest blogger.
He talks about facing your fears to succeed.I hope this helps you in some way, to face whatever may have held you back from achieving your goals and your dreams

Self confidence is one of the keys to personal and professional success that is integral to my Common Sense Success System. I discuss it in several of my books: Straight Talk for Success, Your Success GPS, Star Power, I Want YOU…To Succeed and 42 Rules to Jumpstart your Professional Success.
You can become self confident by doing three things. First, choose optimism.Believe in your heart of hearts that today will be better than yesterday, and that tomorrow will be better than today. Second, face your fears and act. Procrastination and inaction feed fear and rob you of self confidence. Action cures fear. Third, surround yourself with positive people. Don’t let the naysayers into your life. Hang around with people who are positive about themselves, their careers and life in general.
In this post, I’d like to discuss fear. Fear is the enemy of self confidence – and success. Most people fear failure, criticism and rejection. It’s only normal. We all want to feel good about ourselves. Failure, criticism and rejection are not pleasant experiences. They lower our self esteem and make us feel bad about ourselves, so we often avoid doing things that we think might lead to failure, criticism or rejection. Unfortunately, if you want to become a personal and professional success, you have to have the courage to do things that might result in failure, criticism or rejection.
Failure, criticism and rejection provide you with the opportunity to grow and develop – to succeed. You can’t take failure, criticism and rejection personally. Failure, criticism and rejection are outcomes. They are a result of things you have done. They are not who you are. We all make mistakes and fail. We all do things that cause others to criticize or reject us. This doesn’t mean that we are failures. It means that we have made some poor choices and done some dumb things.
Failure, criticism and rejection provide the opportunity to start over – hopefully a little smarter. Buckminster Fuller once said, “Whatever humans have learned had to be learned as a consequence of trial and error experience. Humans have learned only through mistakes.”
That’s why fear is the enemy of self confidence and success. If your fear of failure, criticism and rejection paralyzes you to the point where you aren’t willing to take calculated risks, you’ll never learn anything or accomplish any of your goals.
Don’t be too hard on yourself when you fail, or when others criticize of reject you. Instead, put your energy into figuring out why you failed and then do something different. Here are four questions to ask yourself the next time you fail, or get criticized or rejected.
1. Why did I fail? Why did I get criticized or rejected? What did I do to cause the failure, criticism or rejection?

2. What could I have done to prevent the failure, criticism or rejection?

3. What have I learned from this situation?

4. What will I do differently the next time?

If you do this, you’ll be using failure, criticism and rejection to your advantage. In Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill says, “Every adversity, every failure and every heartache carries with it the seed of an equivalent or greater benefit.” I know it’s hard to see the benefit or opportunity in failure, criticism and rejection. But it’s there – you just have to look hard enough. But it all begins by facing your fear and acting.
About a year ago, my niece Brett and moved from Florida to San Diego. She left a good job in Florida. She had no job lined up in San Diego when she moved. I thought that she demonstrated amazing optimism in making such a long move in such a difficult economy. I’m happy to report that 17 days after she arrived in San Diego Brett landed a job as an account manager for an athletic apparel manufacturer. I’m proud of her. She didn’t let her fear of failure, criticism or rejection stop her from pursuing her dreams.
The common sense point here is simple. Successful people are self confident. Self confident people face their fears and act. Our most common fears are failure, criticism and rejection. However, if you choose to find and use the learning opportunity in failure, criticism and rejection you will not only become more self confident, you will become more successful. It’s sad but true – failure, criticism and rejection are the price you pay for becoming a personal and professional success. Facing your fear of failure, criticism and rejection and acting will pay big dividends in your life and career.
That’s my take on the importance of facing your fears and acting. What’s yours? What have you learned from facing your fears? How has it helped you become more self confident? Please leave a comment sharing your story with us. As always, thanks for reading.

Bud Bilanich
The Common Sense Guy

Bud Bilanich, The Common Sense Guy, is a success coach, motivational speaker, bestselling author and blogger. He helps his clients succeed by applying their common sense. Bud is offering a free 90 minute DVD on career and life success to readers of this blog. If you would like a copy of the DVD, go to: http://www.CommonSenseSuccessSystem.com/freedvdoffer

Goals, Goals, Goals

2010-01-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

Finally after taking a long ten days to reflect on the past year, I can say I'm ready for 2010. It took me awhile because, I didn't want to make any hurried decisions based on emotions or excitement.

So, I have made some realistic goals for this month and one,just one top priority goal for this blog;

1. write posts for my blog three times a week.

Why is this so important, you may ask? After all, some bloggers post daily and sometimes more than once a day? I find that I have so many things I want to write about that I become overwhelmed. Having a goal of posting articles thrice a week is my way of holding myself accountable.

What are your goals? Are they long term goals or short term goals? Have you taken any steps to ensure you meet your goals? It would be nice if you could share them with us.

Memories of a Decade

2009-12-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone! I can't believe it's been a decade already and what a decade it has been?

I'm certain everyone has their memories. Some good, some bad and some not so good too. I have mine and I wanted to share some of them with you.

2000 -I became a mom. That was and still is, the best thing that happened to me.Nothing else comes close.

2000-Remember all the hype about computers and all other gadgets going down with the Y2K bug?

2001-I remember September 11th...that still makes me very sad.

2002- My first nephew was born.

2003- We moved homes/ my daughter started preschool.

2004- Ventured into MLM.( That is a whole blog post by itself)

2005- I discovered my vocation.

This gives you an idea of how it's been for me. Most of my memories are "mom" memories. Some of my memories were not so good but I'm very thankful.

I'm thankful for the good, the bad, the drive-me-crazy,I want-to-pull-my-hair-out, memories that come with being alive.

It is with this heart of thanksgiving that I accept 2010 as a gift. A gift and also an opportunity to be my best self each day.

I'm thankful for all of you. I really am.

What are your memories? What are you thankful for?

NKJV Greatest Stories of the Bible ( A Book Review)

2009-12-31T13:27:00.000-08:00

Book Description from the Publisher's website:

A storybook accounting of the most memorable people and remarkable events of the Bible.

Stretching across both the Old and New Testaments, this heirloom edition provides readers with the tales of the Bible in an easy-to-navigate, storybook format. From the creation of the universe to Jesus’ promise to return to Earth again, the NKJV Greatest Stories of the Bible recounts more than two hundred fifty of the most valuable lessons and triumphs from the most memorable people of the Bible. Enjoy reading these stories again and again and gain new insight into their meanings.

My thoughts;

This has become a great resource for family devotion. My kids love to read the stories, especially at bed time.
The language is simple to read and to understand. It also brings a modern touch to some of the stories in the Bible.
If you love reading the Bible but sometimes find it difficult to relate what you read with the times we are in, then you may consider having a copy of this heirloom edition.

The Sweet By and By ( A Book Review)

2009-12-29T22:57:00.000-08:00

The Sweet By and By
By Sara Evans and Rachel Hauck

Book Description from the Publisher's website:

A redemptive story from multi-platinum recording artist Sara Evans.

Jade Fitzgerald left the pain of her past in the dust when she headed out for college a decade ago. Now she's thriving in her career and glowing in the light of Max Benson's love.

But then Jade's hippie mother, Beryl Hill, arrives in Whisper Hollow, Tennessee, for Jade's wedding along with Willow, her wild younger sister. Their arrival forces Jade to throw open the dark closets of her past--the insecurity of living with a restless, wandering mother, the silence of her absent father, and the heart-ripping pain of first-love's rejection.

Turns out Beryl has a secret of her own. She needs reconciliation with her oldest daughter before illness takes her life. In the final days leading to the wedding, Jade meets the One who shows her that the past has no hold on her future. With a little grace, they'll meet in the middle, maybe even before that sweet by and by.

My thoughts:

This "Thoughtful Thursday", I chose this book because it seemed so right for the end of the year.

This is a first novel for Sara Evans and I think she did a great job.
It is a about Jade's self-discovery and her struggles for a sense of self.The process though painful, was necessary. She had to confront her past and deal with unresolved emotions.
A very moving story about forgiveness and hope.This book may cause you to take a close look at unresolved issues in your past dealing with them, then letting them stay in the past. Rather than running away from them.

It's that time of the year again.

2009-12-27T22:49:00.000-08:00

It's here again....! Time to get all those little note books out and write some, "New Year Resolutions". But I'm wondering how many people really stick with their resolve? I do not make resolutions anymore because,I haven't had much success with them in the past. Rather, I have daily goals and that seems to work best for me.

Do you have resolutions? Have you been successful with them? How have you achieved this? If you do not mind sharing, I'd really love to hear from you.

Here is to a Prosperous 2010 to all of you!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T10:47:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all of you my friends and readers! I appreciate everyone of you who took the time to follow, to comment and also encourage me. I couldn't have survived these past two months without all of you.

Thank you and the heart does not forget!

Twelve Days of Christmas

2009-12-15T08:09:00.000-08:00

A friend shared this information she found on the net about the true meaning of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" song. I didn't write this beautiful piece and therefore cannot take the credit for it. If you have the link to the original source, please share it with us. Thank you.

It is in bold text below;

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were

not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone

during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.

It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning

plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each

element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality

which the children could remember.

-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Chris t.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness,

Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'

Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone

How To Survive As A Single Income Family.

2009-12-12T23:26:00.000-08:00

This post is about how to adjust from having a double income, to living on a single income . The post discusses; savings, budgeting, and making choices. Making the transition may seem difficult in the beginning but, with careful planning and patience living on a single income can be achieved.

The current economic downturn has affected families in various ways. For most families where both partners work outside of the home or had a business, the loss of one of the sources of income if unplanned for can cause much stress and panic.

To alleviate stress, talk about the changes that need to be made as a family. No topic should be left out, everything from the mortgage, shopping, car payments, eating out and childcare fees (if any) should be discussed to enable you get a sense of direction on surviving on a single income.

Focus on the positives and consider how having someone at home can benefit the family. A few of the positives will include saving on commuting, work clothes, coffee and daycare fees.

Start a family budget and discipline yourself to stick to it. This may be difficult at first because, you are accustomed to having two incomes. But having a fixed amount of money for each expenditure placed in an envelope really does the trick however, once the money in the envelope is exhausted, you may not replenish it.

Write down everything you spend for a month. To do this effectively, carry a small notebook with you at all times or save your receipts and enter your purchase into your book at the end of your day. At the month’s end, analyse your spending to see what you can cut back on or completely do away with.

Surviving on a single income also means keeping debt to the minimum whenever possible. Call your credit card company and negotiate a lower rate. This is also the time to start paying cash or using your debit card. When the money is coming directly from your bank account, the urge to spend more is greatly minimised. Another trick is to have a secure credit card which is linked directly to your bank account.

Spend some time to cook healthy meals. The money spent on takeaways and quick fixes adds up eventually and leaves a dent on your family’s budget. Store leftovers in containers to be eaten later.

When shopping, visit the less expensive stores and find sales, use coupons. However, just because an item is on sale does not mean you should buy it. You still have to pay for it. Always have a shopping list.

Visit the local library to borrow books, movies and magazines.

If after the adjustments have been made and you still seem to be struggling, consider finding extra sources of income for the stay at home partner that can be done from home like; babysitting, having a garage sale, starting a direct sales business, to mention a few.

Finally, living on a single income seems difficult initially but, determine to make it work as a family and be willing to tweak things when necessary to suit your family’s needs.

Are you a single income family? Have you been a single income family? Or, you may be considering making the transition, please share with us your views.

Thoughtful Thursday( Why do men cheat?)

2009-12-10T08:23:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here with a warm cup of green tea and wishing I had a crackling fire to complete the scenario. I'm trying to figure out why men cheat? What is so attractive about being unfaithful? Is the thought of knowing they can get away with it? Or, it may be the thought of being invincible? A case in point is the recent Tiger Woods Saga. Do men cheat just for the thrill they get from it?

Tiger Woods is very successful, married to a beautiful woman, has two lovely kids, but he felt the need to put all this at risk by cheating? Can somebody come up with a good "why" or a "maybe"?

The media hasn't helped much either(do they ever?). All the speculations about divorce, prenup, and everything in between? What do you think about the role of the media in this situation? Should the media continue to hound this couple or leave them alone to deal with their marital problems in private.

What are your thoughts on all these ladies suddenly appearing from everywhere? Why are they so eager to share their stories? Why were they content to be in the shadows before now? Is being an ex-girlfriend of Tiger some sort of status symbol?

Do you think Elin should leave Tiger or stay with him? Should she forgive him and move on? Can she really forgive his "transgressions"? Do you think he'll cheat again?

Those are my thoughts this snowy, wintry, Thursday. You are welcome to share yours.

A Review of Scentsy Wickless Candles in Canada

2009-12-07T19:06:00.001-08:00

If you are a candle lover like me, then you will understand why I am so excited about Scentsy. As much as I love candles I avoid using them because of the flame. Having young kids around also made safety a number one priority. That is the reason I fell in love with the Scentsy concept of wickless candles. There is no flame, no smoke and no soot. The warmers are beautiful too. Did I mention that with the wide array of scents, there is something for everyone? From the stronger smelling scents, to the mild and the very soft scents.Scentsy only opened up to Canada in October,2009. So if you love candles but worry about flames then Scentsy maybe an option for you.

Thoughtful Thursday ( Praying For Our Children).

2009-11-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

Today is Thoughtful Thursday. A day when we will spare a moment to share a thought or do something special for someone else.

Here is a thought for today. Please spare a thought for all the children in all the corners of the world who have suffered or maybe suffering some kind of abuse. These children maybe adults now, but were victims or are still victims of abuse.

Some of the children that readily come to mind are those we see in the media. Although these are not the only abused children, they can be used as points of contact to all the kids in the world.

We remember the Shaniyas, the Caseys, the Haleighs,and the Somers and all the other abused children too numerous to mention here, as we pray for safety for children.

Fearless By Max Lucado.

2009-11-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

Fearless by Max Lucado is a great book! If you have read any book by this author, then you know he is an awesome writer.

The book deals with the many fears that that may hinder us from living our very best.Fears that we readily acknowledge and fears that are buried very deep in our subconsious.

What are your fears based on? The daily news reports?, All that is going on with the economy and life in general? Fearless addresses these fears and reminds you of God's grace. Choosing how to act or not to act with all the neagtive reports and trusting in the God that holds the universe.

While Fearless may not solve or address all the fears you may have, it will point you in the right direction.

It is a great book and easy to read.

Update On Review Stream

2009-11-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

This site is probably a great site when properly organised, that seems not to be the case right now. The site says get paid to review anything. So I took a look at some of the reviews on the site, read the review guidelines and posted a review. I reviewed a product I had in my home. The review was denied because,I was not allowed to review that product.No,I didn't review anything inappropriate either. The product I reviewed was an air freshner.So, I'm confused, the website said to review anything, I followed instructions to the letter.

I "Googled" this website and found a number of posts by people calling the site a scam.

If you have had any experience with this site, you are welcome to comment here.

Review Stream.

2009-11-14T10:37:00.000-08:00

I recently discovered a site called Review Stream.The way the site works sounds interesting.You get paid for reviewing anything.

I will be be posting my experience with this site here.I'd appreciate comments from anyone who has reviewed something on this site?

Still on the subject of reviews, the book I will be reviewing next is called-FEARLESS by Max Lucado.

All the books I have read by this author were great.So I look forward to enjoying this title as well.

OBSTACLES WELCOME by Ralph de la vega- A Book Review

2009-11-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

I looked forward to receiving my very first book as a Book Review Blogger for Thomas Nelson Publishers with a great deal of excitement. I was excited because the book- OBSTACLES WELCOME by Ralph de la Vega, promised to be a good read. It turned out to be so much more than a good read.

The author,Ralph de la Vega arrived in the U.S at the age of 10. He had been separated from his family by the Cuban authorities. He was alone and frightened. He could not speak or understand the English language.

The book takes the reader on a journey of the author's experiences and challenges as a young immigrant boy to President and Chief Executive Officer of AT&T Mobility and Consumer markets.

I found many golden nuggets in this book.I will share one of them with you. For instance, the author mentioned having,"Markers on Your Personal Plan".

He writes that; "If you reach a certain point in life and you say,"I haven't accomplished everything I wanted to do",the odds are you didn't adjust your plan along the way. Even with plenty of warning,we don't always pay attention".He goes on to talk about doing what your goal requires or choosing a new goal.

This is a must read for anyone who needs motivation or needs to re-focus on what is really important in their business or personal life.

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-11-12T09:57:00.000-08:00

I thought I should have a "Thoughtful Thursday". I know some blogs have "Wordless Wednesday".

"Thoughtful Thursday" will be a time for doing the extra thing, it is all about self-development. Anything that will bring a smile to another's face. It could be an act,a word of kindness, sharing from a book that helped you in some way that you think may encourage others, or a picture that made you laugh.

If you have something to share, you are most welcome to leave a comment here.

Setting small goals each day.

2009-11-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I had my very first content on Bukisa approved.I am happy about this because, that was a small goal I set for myself,that has been reached. To view my post, please click on the above title.

Before this journey started, I found it very difficult to focus on one thing at a time. I had so many ideas and often found myself feeling very overwhelmed trying to accomplish them all.

Recently, I just set a daily goal. I accomplish that goal and look forward to a new day and a new goal. This has really helped me with organisation and time management too.

I am interested in learning how you reach your goals? What are the steps you take? Do you set daily, weekly, monthly or yearly goals?

Writing Articles 2

2009-11-04T10:15:00.000-08:00

I have been quite busy with writing this week. While writing is fun(if you like writing), it also requires work and careful planning. Maybe this is true in my case because i'm in the early stage of my writing?

I mentioned writing for Associated Content, well I also started as a blogger for Today.com. I am discovering my writing voice and my writing style each day, by having these platforms (i.e. Associated Content, Today.com, and Bukisa)for practice.

It is quite easy getting started on Today.com. You register and provide a link to your work or samples of your work. If you are selected to be a VIP blogger, you will contacted in a few days.You do not have to be an experienced blogger either. It is for new as well as, experienced bloggers.You also do not need to have a blog as you can use one of their hosted blogs. It doesn't pay a whole lot,you earn $1:00 per 100 word post daily. But, it provides good practice and it is only a 100 words per post. There is the referral side too. You get paid to refer other bloggers at $5:00 per blogger. Today.com also pays you $2:00 per 100 views you get to your blog.Here, promotion is key to getting traffic.

If you are interested in Today.com, i'd appreciate it if you chose me as your referrer. My username is "momswallet" there.

Here is the link to my first post http://momswallet.today.com

Time to get back to the writing board.....

Writing Articles

2009-11-02T16:50:00.000-08:00

I started writing for Associated Content today. Like Blogging, this is a new adventure for me. It is way out of my comfort zone. I thought about this for a long time. But, each time I wanted to start the application process, I'd develop cold feet and put it off for another day. But like my weightloss journey, I eventually realised that if it was going to happen,it was up to me.

Finally, I took the plunge. Nothing has changed, I am still nervous and wondering if I know what I am doing? But I am doing this afraid rather than putting it off forever.

Is there something you have always wanted to do? I encourage you to take the plunge. It maybe baby steps towards your desired goal, but every step counts.

I'll share what I learn from this experience as I go along.

Book Review Bloggers

2009-10-30T18:35:00.000-07:00

Two days ago, while visiting another Mom Blogger's site,(Visiting Blogs is fun because you learn so many new things). I saw a button she had on there, which said something about being a THOMAS NELSON Book Review Blogger. The idea appealed to me and I signed up to follow her Blog.

Yesterday I applied to become a Review Blogger myself. Why put off for tomorrow what you can do today,right?

My application was approved today. I am so excited, because I will be getting the books for free. Read the book, comment on the book here and also post a comment on a consumer site.

I will be posting my first review here when I am done reading it. The book is called: Obstacles Welcome By Ralph de la Vega.

The Fat Flush Plan

2009-10-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

This blog is about self development, sharing the new things i learn with you.

A friend recently lost a lot of weight while using The Fat Flush Plan.I do not know about this plan,but it seems interesting. I will be sharing what i learn here in future.

When Good Love Goes Bad

2009-10-29T15:44:00.001-07:00

Families are so important. The home is a child's first school.I know families that chose to homeschool, and their children have done exceedingly well. In the home, values are taught and personalities are often molded. The type of home a child is from can possibly make or break the child. For this reason,it is most vital that we handle our family environment with care.

However,even with the best of intentions,sometimes the family unit may breakdown for so many reasons. Where this happens, and the couple decide to seperate, it is necessary to protect the children.

I was an avid viewer of the t.v program,JON & KATE PLUS 8. My kids loved the show and for that reason, i watched with them until i really started enjoying the show myself.
So it was with shock and utter dismay that i watched and continue to watch with great sadness, this couple tear each other up for the pleasure of the media.Neither Jon nor Kate seem to care how their actions affect their kids. It is very painful to watch to say the least.

Why do they care so much what the media thinks? Why are they both granting so many interviews? What does it matter who is right or who is wrong? Who is taking care of their children? Surely,divorce must be painful enough without making a show of it for the world to see?

Reminds me of an old song by the EVERLY BROTHERS....So Sad To See Good Love Go Bad.

This Is It!

2009-10-28T08:11:00.001-07:00

Micheal Jackson's "THIS IS IT", is, as with all his work FANTASTIC.He represented many things to many people. He brought so much joy and entertainment to the world. It did not matter where you were from.

It is sad knowing that someone who made others so happy, was so unhappy and very misunderstood.The price of fame can be very overwhelming.

Micheal,I am glad your children will see "THIS IS IT" and realise why their father was the KING OF POP.

Micheal Jackson may be gone but his music lives on.

Rest in perfect peace.

Living and loving it.

2009-10-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

You probably know someone who is constantly on some sort of weight loss program. I know some one like that....me!

I have tried almost every diet there is on the market and i would often get fed up after a few weeks, and throw in the towel just before i had any meaningful success. I thought it was the diet program that failed me again,but it wasn't the diet,I was my own biggest obstacle.I needed to get "me" out of my way

Recently,I discovered a secret that has helped me get out of the dieting trap. My secret is Mindful Eating.

Eating mindfully,thinking about every morsel,every bite of food that goes into the mouth keeps me in check. Before,I eat anything,I think about why i am eating?,am i truly hungry? bored or just eating because it is lunch time? what am i eating?,is it healthy? Am i eating because the kids are fast asleep and "me" time must include a snack?It takes about a second to ask myself these questions,but it really helps keep me focused. You may want to try this.

My 5 healthy living tips for successful weight loss that are working for me are:

1. Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. This really helps flush the system.

2.Eat some break fast.Just like mom always asked you to.Eat mindfully.

3. Drink water. No matter how bland you think the taste of water may be,you owe it to your body. Don't wait until you are thirsty either to keep hydrated.

4.Exercise by incorporating exercise into your daily activities. You can park your car as far as you can from your destination and walk. While walking, gently swing your arms,you my also want to pull your tummy in( if that is a target area).If you have a gym membership,be sure to use it when you can.

5.Think of this as a life-style and not a diet.Leave the scale out of it. When you lose weight,your clothes will be the first to inform you.

Lastly, enjoy the ride.There is only one of you.

Just had to say...

2009-10-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have always loved to read. I love books.Sometimes i stay up very late because a book is just too great to put down...."unputdownable".

My love for a real good book made writing seem easy. However, my attempt at a blogging has opened a whole new world for me. I realise now,how challenging writing can be. Organising thoughts, knowing what to write, deciding what to write and so many other factors that goes into writing.

This blog is about self-development. Growing in spirit,mind and body and sharing what i learn with you. It will be very informative and lots of fun.

So to all the authors,bloggers,writers,even newbie bloggers like me.....i just had to say, keep up the good work and do not stop writing.

"The body builds up with work,the mind with studying"(Albanian proverb)