Guest Blogger Ultimate 30 While In Your 30’s Checklist 8:00 AM Just because you’re grown up and then some doesn’t mean settling into the doldrums of predictability. Surprise people. Surprise yourself. -Victoria Moran If you’re freaking out because it’s as though you’re just aging but you’ve accomplished nothing, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Guest blogger Ifeoma of Purposeful and Meaningful will show you how to age or more appropriately, how to handle your big 3-0 gracefully: Turning 30 or in your 30’s and have read a lot of ‘before 30 bucket list’? How does that feel? Mixed emotions? Interesting that it means a lot to us approaching 30 or in our 30’s. If you’re like me, you may have written a list you wish to accomplish before you reach this milestone. Pressure builds when friends and family remind you of the things in your life that aren’t working or unaccomplished. I don’t like that pressure. Do you? Don’t let others insist their dreams on you. Relax. Write your own checklist. Give yourself grace if they don’t go as planned. Here’s mine: Ultimate 30 While In Your 30’s Checklist Learn something new often. Make it count. Be serious about building your financial life. Move to somewhere new especially when you’ve been there too long. New places come with fresh ideas and new friends. Live simpler. Less whining, more grace. Get a better job or change careers if you’re not happy anymore. Get over fear, and venture into a new career. Redesign your home. Find new home design inspirations. Up your game. Dress better, speak better. Carriage is important to boost self-confidence. Books are worthy investments. Invest in them. Visit new places; try their dishes. You never can tell what goodies abound. Ask your friends to describe you in “One Word”. True friends would tell you who you are even if you don’t like to hear the truth. Never give up on your dreams and passion. Miracles still happen. Write your life history to see how God has been faithful. It’s a game-changer. Married? Go on vacation alone. Re-examine your life. Are you lost caring for everyone else but yourself? If there’s anything worth committing to, it’s your spiritual life. It’s the foundation for every area of your life. Be intentional. Invest time growing your relationships. Take time each week to appreciate nature. Write an appreciation list, a gratitude journal, or your thankful list with people who’ve been there for you. Write a forgiveness list; all the people your heart needs to release including yourself and your past. Write a help list. Extend kindness to someone on your list. Make a friendship list. Old friends are great, new friends are fun but you need a blend of both. Write positive notes each week to glean your thoughts to focus. Attitude matters. Laugh more, smile more, pray more, and believe more. Be joyful. Social media may be stifling your real-life connections. Do a recheck. Health is important. Take it very seriously. Join a gym, dance club, and take regular walks. Join positive online communities. Sign up with my sweet friend Lux on About life And Love and come chat with me on Purposeful and Meaningful. Volunteer. Get involved in community projects. Make goals. Plan better. Find a mentor. Mentor someone. Write a living list and avoid a bucket list that works you up. I’m giving you this as a compliment. See and use mine as a template, and fill in yours! Download Living List. Excellent, right? Now your turn...what’s on your ultimate 30 while in your 30's list? What advice can you share? About the author: Ifeoma Samuel is happily married to her sweetheart Obiora Samuel. She is an author, a blogger, and a Speaker at various women conferences in South Africa. She uses her writings to share everyday life stories about God's immense love. She is the author of My 30 Days Journey To a Fulfilled Life. Visit her blog Purposeful And Meaningful and follow her on Pinterest | Google+ | Facebook
For Moms 5 Cute Valentine's Day DIY Gift Ideas For The Whole Family 10:57 PM 5 Cute Valentine's Day DIY Gift Ideas For The Whole Family Most people think of Valentine's Day as a time to get romantic with their spouse. But the truth is, there is just as much fun for the kids as for the adults. So if you're a creative mom, why not get your kids in on some artsy and cute Valentine's Day DIY gift ideas for the whole family?Not only will these make for sweet gifts for your most cherished loved ones, but you'll be grateful for the memories you make as you get creative with your kids. 1. DIY Family Fun Book Do a family take on this "book of date" Valentine's Day DIY gift idea by compiling a list of fun family day activities you would like to do together. Buy construction paper and cut them into equal sizes. Decorate them with family idea vouchers such as: Going on a picnic Making a blanket fort in the living room before an unforgettable movie night Family board/video game night Go to the zoo Finish off your booklet by punching holes through the "coupons" and tying them together with string or stapling them together. 2. Chalkboard FramesThis cute Valentine's Day DIY gift idea involves a trip to the craft store. Buy an ornate picture frame. It can be as big or small as you like. Next, buy some chalkboard paint and a paintbrush. Carefully remove the glass from the frame and set it over scrap newspaper. Paint the glass with chalkboard paint. Once dry, put your glass back into the frame and write a cute message for your sweetheart or the kids. Take inspiration from this Picture Frame Style Chalkboard.3. DIY Valentine's Slime For this cute - and slimy - Valentine's gift idea for her, pick the glitter color of your choice, confetti hearts, liquid starch, and glitter glue. Here's how to make a DIY Valentine's Slime:Pour two cups of the glue into a mixing bowl and add in any extra glitter you like. Optional: Throw in some aromatic essential oils.Add two cups of liquid starch until you have reached your desired, slime-like consistency. Package this in an old glass candle jar or clear plastic container for a gooey, messy, fun DIY gift! 4. DIY Valentine's Treats Sometimes the best present you can give someone is something you make in your kitchen. Find your favorite sugar cookie or brownie recipe and have your kids help you gather and measure the ingredients. If you're making sugar cookies, roll out the dough and let your little ones go crazy with the heart-shaped cookie cutters. Supervise them closely and ensure it's not too hot before they handle it. You can make this an extra-special baking treat for the kids by dipping your cookies into melted chocolate and then dunking them into a separate bowl of sprinkles for a truly gourmet dessert. Here's a simple DIY Valentine's Day cupcake recipe from Ollie. 5. Reasons I Love You Envelopes Studies show that the couples who have the highest rate of marital satisfaction are those who regularly express gratitude for one another. Make this your reality by making this romantic DIY Valentine's gift idea for him. Start with 10 envelopes and write different titles on each of them. For example, "I love you because you can always make me laugh"Take out some fancy paper and write your sweetheart a letter about why you love them. Share a cute or funny memory together. Write out 10 different letters and get the kids in on it. Some ideas to write on this cute Valentine's Day DIY gift: I love you because... You are a great dad! I love you because... You sweep me off my feet. I love you because... You are weird, just like me.I love you because... You're my best friend. Valentine's Day DIY Gift Ideas for the Whole Family Do-It-Yourself gifts are a fantastic choice for this love-filled day because they come directly from the heart. Not only are they thoughtful, but the recipient of your gesture will love knowing that you put time and energy into making your cute Valentine's Day DIY gift. Author: Rachael Pace is a relationship expert with years of experience training and helping couples. She has helped countless individuals and organizations worldwide, offering effective and efficient solutions for healthy and successful relationships. In addition, she is a featured writer for Marriage.com, a reliable resource for supporting healthy, happy marriages. This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.Hero image
Lux Thinking Aloud First Blogging Award: Liebster Award 12:53 PM First blogging award: Liebster Award I got my first blogging award--- the Liebster Award. According to Gigi The Snooper, the blogger who was kind enough to nominate and award me with Liebster Award: Liebster comes from the German language, and it means "beloved". This award exists only on the internet, and is given to bloggers by other bloggers and it follows similar principles as a chain letter, in the sense that it should be passed forward to a certain number of people. Before I proceed with the rules to officially receive Liebster Award, I'd like to express my gratitude. Thank you for wasting a minute or two with me. For reading my thoughts, for allowing me to share my stories with you, and for being generous and respectful with the comments you leave. Thank you also to those who send me sweet messages thanking me for the encouragement they receive by just reading my posts. Special thanks to those who trust me enough to share their stories with me and even ask for my advice. I'm also in the stage of figuring out life so knowing you trust me enough to ask for my opinion is an honor. And to finally make it official, here are the things required to receive the Liebster Award: 1. Thank the person who nominated you, and post a link to their blog on your blog. My favorite online snooper Gigi The Snooper, thanks so much for considering me worthy of the Liebster award. I love snooping around your page. You post interesting facts I don't usually see on the web. I especially love the gory, creepy, crazy story of the countess who bathes in and drinks blood. Haha. Keep snooping around! 2. Display the award on your blog. Google images 3. Answer 11 questions about yourself, which will be provided to you by the person who nominated you. Why did you start blogging? Has it turned out to be what you expected? I started my blog for 2 reasons: (1) I think more and talk less. My thoughts are overflowing I have to write some down. (2) And I use it as a portfolio for online jobs. It turned out to be more than I expected. When I started receiving emails and comments about how much people appreciate what I write, and how it affected them or made them feel better, I realized that blogging is not just for my entertainment and profit anymore. It became my purpose. Now I write with the goal of informing, entertaining and inspiring others. Before I write, I consider those who will be reading; will it help them, enlighten them, make them feel good about themselves, or provoke their thoughts? Is this what God wants to tell them? I've got readers who are non believers and I also try to consider their views whenever I write. What's one piece of advice you'd give your younger self? Oh, I have a looot. I wrote them on 21 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was Younger and Unsolicited Advice To The Struggling 20-Something. If I must pick one, it's to believe in myself and ignore the critics. If you could live one day over again, what day would it be? I couldn't choose a day, but if I were to choose a phase, it would be when my brother was just a toddler. I especially miss those times when I have to bathe him myself, when we share stories over Koko Krunch, when he would ask me to read him bedtime stories, when he would sit on my lap and we would watch his favorite cartoons together. What is the story behind your blog name? I'm planning to change my blog name soon. I created it when I was at a rather vulnerable stage so it sounds cheesy. Now that I'm back to my normal happy self, I'm thinking of a better name, something more specific. If you could only eat one type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be? Fruits! I love Philippine mango so much I can eat it everyday. What’s your greatest fear? I fear for the safety of my loved ones. When was the last time you had a good belly laugh? Just a while ago. ;) What’s your favorite quote? All things work together for good to them who love the Lord.---Romans 8:28 What has been your biggest challenge? Taking the high road and being the better person. Some people are born to test your patience. If you were going to live on a deserted island, what three things could you not live without? Things: Clean water, books, comforter. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? To forgive quickly like Jesus. 4. Provide 11 random facts about yourself. I'm an introvert. I believe I'm Italian in my past life judging by my liking for Italian food especially pizza and pasta. I'm a frustrated globe trotter. I tsunduko like all other bibliophiles. More than just a fan, I love Zac Efron. I'm a Potterhead and forever will be. I love organic products. I want to try scuba diving but I'm scared of the open water. I'm a perpetual dreamer. I'm a sucker for chick flicks. Pet peeves: People who can dish it out but can't take it. 5. Nominate 5 blogs that you feel deserve the award, who have less than 1000 followers: The Beautiful Eagle Welcome To My Life Somewhere-In-Between Life Out Loud Chelsea Write 6. Create a new list of questions for the blogger to answer. What drives you? What's your mantra? What is your belief or principle? What do you value the most in your life? Which TV series are/were you addicted with? The song that sums up your life. What's your greatest regret? Your favorite movie of all time. Your best childhood memory. Your dream vacation destination. If you can change one thing in the world, what will it be? 7. Rules to follow to officially accept the Liebster Award. Thank the person who nominated you, and post a link to their blog on your blog. Display the award on your blog — by including it in your post and/or displaying it using a “widget” or a “gadget”. Answer 11 questions about yourself, which will be provided to you by the person who nominated you. Provide 11 random facts about yourself. Nominate 5 – 11 blogs that you feel deserve the award, who have a less than 1000 followers. (Note that you can always ask the blog owner this since not all blogs display a widget that lets the readers know this information!) Create a new list of questions for the blogger to answer. There you go. Now, I'm a Liebster Award recipient. 2014 has been an enjoyable year, full of surpirses. This is one of them. My heart is bursting with gratitude. See also: Liebster Award Recipient---Again! Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Lux Thinking Aloud Catch Up 9:22 PM Catch Up I was going to watch Friends again after my work but my former office mates started a video conferencing. So, we had a catch up session for a few minutes. We just checked on each other, talked about life in this time of c oronavirus, memories we share and and our work when we were still in the same company. It gave me a sense of normalcy. Talking with people I've known before this pandemic about our lives pre-c oronavirus helped my sanity somehow. Gratitude list Catching up with friends God's steadfast love Entertaining videos on YouTube This imperfect but blessed life By the way, here's the Oratio Emparata you can pray for C OVID-19: Oratio Emparata God our Father, we come to you in our need to ask your protection against the C OVID 19 that has disturbed and even claimed lives. We pray that you guide the people tasked to find cures for this disease and to stem its transmission. Protect the medical experts that they may minister to the sick with competence and compassion. We pray for those afflicted. May they be restored to health soon. Protect those who care for them. Grant eternal rest to those who have died. Give us the grace in this trying time to work for the good of all and to help those in need. We implore you to stop the spread of this virus and to save us from our fears. Grant all these through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen. We fly to Your protection, oh Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our petition in our necessities, but deliver us always from all dangers, Oh, glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen. Our Lady, health of the sick, pray for us. St. Raphael the Archangel, pray for us. St. Roch, pray for us. St. Lorenzo Ruiz, pray for us St. Pedro Calungsod, pray for us. Your turn When was the last time you called someone? What do you always pray for?
Holiday The Essence Of Christmas Cards 8:18 PM The essence of Christmas is its relevance. It celebratesthe beginning of the world's greatest love story ever told.Is it Christmas yet? Definitely not. But every day could be Christmas Day. Because the essence of Christmas is its relevance.So, even if it's March or July we can celebrate and talk about Christmas.Wherever you are in the world, Christmas is a holiday to look forward to. Does taking a little effort to show care and love during this time matter to you? Then consider Christmas cards by Mixbook.Whether you're giving Christmas cards to family members or business clients, it sends a vital message and sentiment: they are important to you!A little fun fact: Sir Henry Cole introduced this tradition in 1843. These Christmas cards are commercially designed and bought for this special occasion. Sending Christmas cards is the best time for people to highlight the holiday's narrative, which ideally focuses on the nativity of Jesus Christ. The cards also present a chance for us to connect with others. The Essence of Christmas CardsA brief history of Christmas cards We can trace the start of this tradition to England. In 1843, Sir Henry Cole thought that sending out Christmas cards to his friends will help in cooling their anxieties. It was an idea that initially aimed at responding to the letters he had earlier received from friends. During this time, he designed a card that showcased a family in celebration. Flanking the image of this family were other people helping the poor. That was the beginning of the first Christmas card. History Today3 Reasons Why Sending Christmas Cards is essential Did you know that there are various valuable reasons for you to send Christmas cards to your family and clients? This may convince you to consider getting them next time. Here are 3 reasons: 1. A suitable way of reminding clients who you are Christmas cards can represent your brand. With a bespoke logo highlighted, the client will readily associate you with your products or services. This reminder will encourage repeat business in the long run. Besides, it will show how concerned you are about them. If you are sending the card to family, it will be a reminder that you value and care for them. 2. The personal appeal A personal touch is vital in improving your relationship with both family members and business clients. Handwritten cards show that you took the time and effort to reach out to someone, showing you're thinking about them. With this, you will confidently express your gratitude and highlight care at all times. 3. Low-key marketing Did you know that this approach is a subtle yet affordable marketing approach? You may no longer need to send marketing flyers to your clients throughout the year. A single Christmas card will be enough to convince them to return for more business. Remember to send out a Christmas card. Visit Mixbook for more information about how you can conveniently upload photos to create stunning custom Christmas cards. Their tools and resources will enable you to create professional cards with a touch of a personal feel.
Life Lessons Leave Your Baggage And Move On 12:17 AM If you want to move on, you need to learn to let go. -Bo Sanchez Originally written for and published on The Praying Woman Sins. Hurts. Problems. Past Mistakes. Criticisms. Limitations. Regrets. What is your baggage? Whatever it is, leave your baggage and move one. Leave Your Baggage And Move On Sins. Let go of sins. In our weakness, in our frailty we commit sin. We sometimes take the easy way out and compromise our values. After sinning, instead of repenting we choose to live in the shadow of our sins. Instead of facing the consequences, we let it define us. We sin and we feel like we're done. Like there's no more hope for us. Good news! Even the worst sinner can be has been forgiven. All we need is to accept the mercy from the Ultimate Forgiver, so we can forgive ourselves and move on. Let go of the baggage of sin and move one. Hurts. People will always, always hurt us no matter how much we try to live in peace with them. It's not about us, it's about them. Hurting people hurt people. People who are unkind to you have issues with themselves and not with you. You may have been abandoned by your parents. Your friend might have said something that hurt you in the past. Someone may have broken your heart. Yesterday, a week ago, a month ago, maybe a couple of years or a decade ago...it doesn't matter. You feel hurt and it's normal. It's normal because you care. It's normal because you're an emotional being. That abandonment, that betrayal, that pain hurt but it's not your end. It may feel that way, but it's NOT. Let go of the hurt. Leave your pain and move on. Problems. As long as you're alive, you will encounter problems. Problems may vary from minor ones---what to have for breakfast, to major ones---how to get out of your debts. Your problems will not be around forever. Behind every problem is a solution. Behind every trial is your triumph waiting. Leave your problems and move on. Past Mistakes. If you are alive today, it means you've made mistakes in the past. Nobody's perfect. Everybody fails. It is not the falling that will define you, but your getting up after the fall. Let go of your past mistakes and move on. Criticisms. Some people make it their life mission to scrutinize you, criticize you, and even shame you. Know this: if you've accepted your flaws, no one can use it against you. If you know your worth, no one can shortchange you or make you feel inadequate. How you see people is a reflection of how you see yourself. How you treat people is an extension of how you treat yourself. So when people only see the wrong in you, or treat you harshly all the time, take pity on them. They must be living a very hard life. They could be desperate for help. Again, it's not about you, it's about them. Let go of criticisms. They're just noise. Limitations. You may have been told by someone important to you that your dreams are too big for you, that you are unrealistic. Someone may have instilled in your mind that you are not capable. They're just as imperfect as you are. The only person who can limit you is yourself. Let go of limitations. Regrets. We have our could-have-been. We feel like we've missed something and regret our decisions at some point. We can choose to dwell in what we cannot change, or let go of the regret and make a brand new start. We can feel sorry for ourselves forever or make the mind-shift that everything happens for a reason. Behind all our baggage is shame. If we get rid of the shame, we get rid of the baggage and start to move one. We hang on to toxic people and stay in trashy relationships because we feel that's what we deserve. Because we're ashamed of ourselves, of our baggage. Bo Sanchez said, "You are not a garbage collector. Get rid of the garbage in your life." Gratitude defies gravity. When you feel pulled down by your past mistakes, turn it around and be grateful instead of who you are and what you have. You can't get on a plane unless you surrender your baggage first. You can't get on with life unless you let go of your emotional baggage. It's not easy, but you'll get there if you start shedding them now. Leave Your Baggage And Move On From Talk 2: Desperate of Women Gone Wild series at The Feast. Watch the video here. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Faith 5 Powerful Women Warriors In The Bible To Inspire You 1:48 PM We've been living in a patriarchal society even before Christ's time. But women - the amazeballs creatures that they are - have been breaking norms and making history since time immemorial. So if you're looking for a woman inspiration, girl crush, or powerful women warriors in the Bible to inspire you to kickass, here they are:Woman Warrior #1: RuthRuth was a Moabite woman who, after the death of her husband, chose to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi. She later married Boaz and became the great-grandmother of King David. What is most admirable about Ruth?Loyalty. Ruth's commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, made her an admirable and respectable woman. It eventually paid the way to prosperity and her destiny. After her husband died, Ruth could have returned to her own family, but instead, she chose to stay with Naomi, even though it meant leaving her homeland and facing an uncertain future.Faithfulness. Ruth's devotion to God and commitment to following His commandments are also noteworthy. She chose to leave her family, her culture, and her gods behind and embrace the faith of Naomi and the Israelites.Hard work. Ruth's diligence and hard work made her stand out. It caught Boaz's attention and piqued his interest. She worked tirelessly in the fields, gleaning the leftover grains after the harvest, to provide for herself and Naomi.Humility. Ruth's humility is evident in her interactions with Boaz, her future husband. She showed respect and deference to him, even though he was a wealthy landowner and she was a poor foreigner.Boldness. Ruth's courage is evident in her willingness to approach Boaz at night and ask him to redeem her family's land and marry her, even though it is an unconventional and risky move.Ruth's story is of faithfulness, loyalty, hard work, humility, and courage. Her unwavering commitment to God and her family inspires people of all ages and backgrounds. Ruth didn't intend to marry a wealthy man like Boaz after her husband died. But her excellent work ethic, pure intentions, and hard work brought her places that were impossible for women of her status during her time. Ruth inspires women, setting an example of what to do best while waiting for their Boaz to come. Ruth and Boaz's story sparks hope, showing a second shot at love is possible and still beautiful.Watch The Book of Ruth on Amazon Prime.WikimediaWoman Warrior #2: EstherEsther is a Jewish queen in the Old Testament of the Bible. The Book of Esther is read by Jews during the festival of Purim, which celebrates the Jewish people's survival in the face of persecution. Esther is considered a heroine in Jewish tradition, and her story is one of courage, wisdom, and faith in God.What makes Esther a remarkable woman?Courage. Esther's most admirable trait is her courage. She risked her life by approaching the Persian king without being summoned to plead for the lives of her people, the Jews, who were facing genocide.Wisdom. Esther demonstrated wisdom and shrewdness in her approach to the king. She did not reveal her true identity or purpose right away, but instead, she invited the king and Haman, the man who had plotted against the Jews, to a series of banquets. Through these banquets, she gained the king's favor and was able to plead her case.Faith. Esther's faith in God is also noteworthy. She called on her people to fast and pray for three days before she approached the king, and she asked them to continue to pray for her as she went before him.Compassion. Esther's heart for her people is evident in her willingness to risk her life to save them. She did not have to take action, as she was safe in the palace and not directly affected by the decree to kill the Jews, but she chose to act for the sake of her people.Leadership - Esther's leadership is evident in how she mobilized her people to fast and pray, took charge of the situation, and made the difficult decision to approach the king.Esther's willingness to sacrifice her life to save her people is truly admirable. Trembling in fear, she did what she had to do and set her people free, making her one of the many influential women warriors in the Bible that still inspires today. Esther is a beacon of hope for those often overcome with fear. She shows that it can be done. You just have to do it, afraid.Watch The Book of Esther on Amazon Prime.WikimediaWoman Warrior #3: Mother MaryWhen you think of powerful women in the Bible, you may not automatically count the mother of Christ, Mary. She was always on the sideline, supporting her Son in His ministry. She may be a gentle force, but she's still a force to be reckoned with. She played a significant role in his life and made history with her simple Yes to God's will. What are Mary's traits that make her a historical female?Faith. Mary's faith is her most admirable trait. She believed the angel's message that she would give birth to the Messiah, even though it seemed impossible, and she accepted God's will for her life without hesitation.Humility. Mary's humility is evident in her response to the angel's message. Instead of boasting or seeking glory, she acknowledged her lowly position and praised God for choosing her. Obedience. Mary obeying God's plan for her life is also noteworthy. She willingly submitted to God's will, even though it meant enduring ridicule and persecution from her community.Altruism. Mary had her own needs and struggles as a young pregnant woman. But she walked miles and served her cousin Elizabeth when she found out she was also carrying a child, putting her needs over her convenience.Perseverance. Mary's determination through difficult times is admirable. From giving birth in a lowly manger to stepping back and letting her Son shine to witnessing his crucifixion and death, she remained faithful and steadfast in her belief that God's plan would be fulfilled.Love. Mary's love for her Son Jesus is evident in her actions throughout the Bible. She cared for, nurtured, and supported him throughout his life and ministry, even standing at the foot of the cross as he died.God has given us the free will to either love and serve Him or not. Mary could have refused the responsibility God asked of her, especially since she was only a 14-year-old virgin with a promising future, being engaged to a decent man. But her devotion to God and her Son Jesus Christ made her one of the most remarkable women in history and an inspiration to everyone.Watch Mary of Nazareth on Amazon Prime.Woman Warrior #3: Mary MagdaleneMary Magdalene is mentioned in all four Gospels and was present at the crucifixion. She's among the first to see the empty tomb and the resurrected Jesus. She is often called the "apostle to the apostles" because she was the first to announce the good news of the resurrection to the disciples. Over time, Mary Magdalene has become an important figure in the Christian tradition, and she is often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of devotion, love, and faith. What makes Mary Magdalene a notable figure in the Bible?Faith. Mary Magdalene was one of Jesus' most devoted followers, and she remained loyal to him even in the face of persecution and death. Courage. Mary Magdalene demonstrated courage by remaining faithful to Jesus, even when it was dangerous to do so. She was present at the crucifixion, a brutal and terrifying spectacle, yet she did not abandon Jesus. She also dared to visit the tomb despite the danger of being caught by the authorities.Love. Mary Magdalene's love for Jesus is evident in her actions throughout the Bible. She cared for him, supported him, and was one of his closest companions. Her love for Jesus was so great that she risked her own safety to be near and care for him.Witness. Mary Magdalene is also admired for being a witness to the resurrection of Jesus. She was the first to see the risen Christ and was crucial in spreading the news of his resurrection to others.Transformation. Mary Magdalene's story is also one of transformation. According to the Bible, seven demons possessed her before she met Jesus, but he healed and transformed her life. She went from being troubled and tormented to being a faithful and devoted follower of Jesus.Mary Magdalene is a role model for those who seek to follow Jesus with devotion and dedication. She proves it's never too late to change and be better. And that your past does not define your future.Watch Mary Magdalene on Amazon Prime.Woman Warrior #4: Bithiah Bithiah is referred to as "the daughter of Pharaoh" and is best known for rescuing the infant Moses from the Nile River. Despite being raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses grew up to become a leader of the Hebrew people and is considered one of the most influential figures in Jewish and Christian history. Bithiah's act of saving Moses is seen as an act of compassion, courage, and redemption, and she is admired for her role in shaping the destiny of one of the most outstanding leaders of all time.Other extraordinary values Bithiah showed:Compassion. Bithiah showed compassion when she rescued the infant Moses from the Nile River. She could have ignored his cries or even ordered his death, but instead, she chose to save him.Courage. Bithiah demonstrated courage by defying her father's orders to kill all Hebrew male babies. She risked her safety to save Moses and raise him as her own.Open-mindedness. Bithiah was open-minded enough to recognize the value of Moses' Hebrew heritage, even though he had been raised as an Egyptian. She encouraged him to explore his roots and learn about his people's history and traditions.Influence. Bithiah's impact on Moses was significant. She provided him with a privileged upbringing, education, and exposure to Egyptian culture, which would later enable him to be an effective leader of his people.Redemption. Bithiah's act of saving Moses can be seen as a symbol of redemption. She took a helpless baby who would have been destined for death and gave him a new life, setting him on a path to becoming one of the most outstanding leaders in history.Bithiah is an empowering figure in the Bible for her selfless act of rescuing and raising Moses, which profoundly impacted his life and the history of his people. Indeed a woman warrior when you see one.Watch Exodus: Gods and Kings on Amazon Prime.Woman Warrior #5: Hannah Hannah's most well-known story involves her fervent prayer for a child. She was unable to conceive, and this caused her great distress. One year, when she and her husband went to the tabernacle to make a sacrifice, Hannah prayed intensely to God for a child, promising to dedicate him to God's service if her prayer was answered. God heard her prayer, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Samuel, who would grow up to become a great prophet and leader of Israel. Things you'll admire about Hannah in the Bible:Faith. Hannah's faith in God is perhaps her most admirable trait. She prayed fervently for a child, and when her prayer was answered, she dedicated her Son Samuel to God's service.Perseverance. Hannah's persistence is also noteworthy. She endured years of barrenness and the ridicule of her husband's other wife, yet she did not lose faith in God or give up on her dream of having a child.Selflessness. Hannah's selflessness is evident in her decision to dedicate her Son Samuel to God's service. She recognized that he was a gift from God, and she was willing to give him up for the greater good.Humility. Hannah's modesty is also admirable. When she prayed for a child, she promised to dedicate him to God's service if her prayer was answered. When God responded to her prayer, she kept her promise and humbly offered Samuel to God.Gratitude. Finally, Hannah's appreciation is evident in her prayer of thanksgiving after Samuel's birth. She recognized that God had answered her prayer and blessed her with a child, and she was grateful for this blessing.Hannah's story is often seen as a model of faith and prayer. Her prayer for a child and her subsequent dedication of Samuel to God's service are seen as acts of great devotion and selflessness. Hannah is a role model for those who seek to live a life of faith and love for God. She's proof that the waiting may be challenging, patience may be bitter, but the fruits are sweet.Read Hannah: The Mother Who Prayed.WikimediaWomen Warriors in the BibleThe Bible contains our Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. And it is rich with awe-inspiring stories and exemplary women to learn from and admire - no matter your religion. Because these strong women in the Bible broke through the invisible ceiling that limits them otherwise. These female Bible heroes pushed through and made a name for themselves, leaving a dent with the quiet force they possess.Who's your favorite woman warrior in the Bible?This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.
Lux Thinking Aloud Birthday Realizations 1:38 PM Another year older, another opportunity for new perspectives.My actual birthday was much like any other day, with a dash of well wishes. I received warm greetings, had lunch with my sister and her family, and treated myself to a well-deserved day off.Oh, and guess what?It was also the release date for two books I had read in advance (It Should Have Been Us and Where We Fall). How incredible is that? Talk about feeling special! Now, here's a question: as you age, do you ever find your mind taking unexpected trips down memory lane, revisiting past birthdays? It happens to me, and let me tell you, it's quite the ride. It's a chance for reflection, a time to ponder what truly matters.Here's my birthday speech 😅 about a few birthday realizations this year:Celebration is a personal affair. What brings you happiness? If it's a wild party with 200 people, music blasting so loud you can barely hear yourself think, go ahead and boogie on. I've got no qualms about that. It's just not my cup of tea, not even when I was a teenager. I prefer the quiet and tranquil kind of celebration.If my sister hadn't texted me, I would have happily stayed home, tidying up and losing myself in the pages of my books. Some might consider that pathetic or sad, but trust me, it would have brought me pure bliss. A whole day free from work and the outside world, just reading? It's heaven in my book.And the joy of scrubbing away the grime and organizing my pantry and closet. It may sound strange, but it genuinely brings me peace. Picture a house so clean that you don't just see it. You can practically smell the freshness in the air. Just the thought brings me a serotonin boost.And let me tell you, my love for romance novels knows no bounds. I can happily spend an entire day lost in their pages, my heart soaring with each turn. Simple pleasures, right?TumblrJoy in simplicity.As I grow older, simplicity becomes more appealing. The need to prove my happiness to the world diminishes. I no longer seek validation from those who don't know me - and even those who are supposed to give me one.Knowing that I am loved by my Creator and cherished by the few people I hold dear truly matters.And as long as our dogs think I'm amazing, I'm good.I'd choose 10 genuine, caring individuals who support and love me over a thousand empty followers any day. It's about quality, not quantity.GiphyBest gifts are free.Material presents are lovely but don't hold a candle to the intangible treasures that fill my heart.I am truly blessed. Gratitude fills every corner of my being, reminding me of the abundance surrounding me. It's a gift in itself to recognize and appreciate the countless blessings in my life.My incredible husband, who loves me even when I'm not at my most lovable (bless his patient soul). Having someone who accepts and cherishes me for who I am is a gift.The handful of family members and friends. Their love and thoughtfulness brightened my day.Of course, my trusty books played a starring role in my birthday happiness. They whisked me away to far-off lands, introduced me to captivating characters, and filled my mind with wonder. They, indeed, are a source of endless entertainment and joy.Last but certainly not least, I have you right here, dear blogging friends. Your presence, trust, and support mean the world to me. It's a gift I cherish and never take for granted. Thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me.GiphyI can sincerely say that my birthday was a truly happy one. It may not have been filled with grand gestures or extravagant parties, but it was a day of genuine appreciation. And a break from adult responsibilities. Lol!That, my friend, is pure happiness.Thank you for being a part of it. 😘
Health & Wellness Goodness Is Human Nature 4:18 PM Humans are innately good. It's in our nature. A baby wasn't born a bully or a racist. Goodness is human nature. We just forget. Maybe because along the way people treated us unjustly or hurt us badly that as a result, we let anger rule our emotions and cloud our judgment. You can't love someone who made you feel like trash. Maybe those around us tell us too often for too long that we are incapable, or not good enough, or that we will never amount to anything that it got ingrained in our minds. Goodness is Human Nature We are gold. But somehow life keeps kicking us down that we got covered in mud we forgot how shiny and precious we are inside. We forgot our identity: that we are born good. via Tumblr We need something or someone to remind us that we are good. We are enough. And that no matter how we think how little our contribution is, we count and we matter. I mean, think about the Butterfly Effect. It is the idea that small things like a flutter of a butterfly's wings, can cause as huge an impact as a hurricane on the other side of the world. That's how powerful it is. That's how powerful our choices are. So a simple effort such as choosing sustainable products can make a humongous difference to our planet. Using paper stem cotton buds over plastic might can save a turtle's life. Advocating on companies that are cruelty-free can save animals from misery and untimely death. Animals aren't put here on earth to suffer or die just so we can perfect that shade of red in our lipstick. Goodness is a choice. Every day we have an option which side to choose, how to react, how to help. For instance, our food can either nourish us or make us ill. What you put inside your body is solely up to you. Those who hurt us can either apologize or not. But to forgive them is all up to us. We can wait until our offender is dead before we forgive them. That is something we choose for ourselves. via Giphy The products we use on a daily basis can come from a company that has no regard for Mother Nature or one that prioritizes and sustains the planet's needs. As I get older, I've become more aware of what I can do to help make the world a better place. Every day, my desire to care for nature grows stronger. I've realized that our life the sum total of every single choice we make every day. What are you choosing? Goodness in the products we choose From consumer to advocate I've discovered Human Nature brand while looking for something new to try in the grocery store. I started as a fan. Then I became addicted to their products because it's SO good. The quality is comparable to leading and expensive brands but at a much lesser price. I buy whatever they release---even those that are for kids, because I just know they're all excellent and worth the money. Having read about wealthy mindset, I researched about them and decided to become a dealer. Only to avail the discount every time I buy. But then the brand is too good not to share. It is so easy to sell because people already know and can testify to how good it is. Let me tell you how awesome Human Nature is: They are cruelty-free. They don't test on animals. They're the first Filipino company that received a prestigious cruelty-free recognition from PETA. Now before I buy cosmetics or anything I consume, I ask first or look for that bunny. It maybe just a simple (or even unnecessary for some) kind of act, but for a beagle who can go blind during the testing or a mice that could die, it is their salvation. via Human Heart Nature They are pro-environment. They see to it that when you rinse off your shampoo or when your sunblock washes off to the sea, it doesn't harm the ocean or the planet in general. They are pro-poor. Human Nature helps give local farmers and unemployed mothers a chance to earn a living. According to their website: "As firm believers in fair trade principles, we offer to buy at just and fair prices from our community-based suppliers, sometimes even above market prices if the market price is not enough to provide a good quality of life for the farmers." They also support Gawad Kalinga which is a movement that has helped build homes for the poorest communities. It is their core belief "to end poverty by first restoring the dignity of the poor." They are pro-Philippines. The ingredients and raw materials they use are locally grown from the Philippines. In case you don't know, the Philippines is rich in natural resources which are mostly used for expensive products you see in the global market like coconut oil. Human Nature recognizes this fact and so they formulate products from here, buying from local suppliers, and using talents and skills of the locals. I am so glad and proud to be a part of this brand. They have the balance between excellence of their product plus a heart for those in need. The quality of their products can compete globally but the price is much more affordable. They generously give back to the community and to the planet. I think I hit the jackpot here. My Human Nature Online Dealer Shop is now open to serve you! I recently opened my very own online dealer shop! If you want to purchase, you can check out my Human Nature Lucky Shop (Love Nature). Here's how easy it is to buy: Create an account or login with Facebook Add items to cart Pay DIRECTLY to Human Nature via debit card, credit card or Paypal (their PayPal option is paused as of writing. Please check their site.) 🔸 No need to contact me 🔸 Items will be delivered to the address you entered Now that was not a long sales pitch. I meant every word I wrote. In fact, I mentioned this business on my Monday Gratitude List last 2014. I've always wanted to feature them on my blog but then I always let other things get in the way. If you've just heard of this brand, here are my personal favorites and recommendations: Tomato Nourishing Facial Wash Acne Defense Facial Wash Acne Defense Solution Gel Sunflower Beauty Oil Luxe Pure Rosehip Oil Peppermint Lip Scrub Rosemary Strengthening Plus Shampoo and Conditioner Clarifying Shampoo Daily Hair Treatment Conditioner Strawberry or Vanilla Exfoliating Bar Chamomile Cool Feminine Wash Red Days Feminine Wash Citrus Burst Hand Sanitizer Strawberry Hand and Foot Salve Safe Protector Sunscreen Bug Shield Citronella Oil Peppermint Oil Ant Warder HN Liquid Detergent HN Dishwashing Liquid Theo & Philo Choco Peanut Butter Rustique Cacao Kayumanggi Tintan’s Assorted Cookie Bites Pili & Pino Granola Yes, I've tried them all! If you want to nourish your body without hurting your budget and help make the planet a safer and better place, buy organic, cruelty-free, and natural products. Support companies that are not all about profit but also with a purpose. Make that beautiful change in your life you've always wanteded to see. Start with yourself. Choose goodness. It's human nature.
Fashion & Style Happiness Boutique: Happiness In A Small Box 8:00 AM We define our own happiness. Happiness can come from many things. Some from the most profound reasons, others from life's simple pleasures. My latest happiness came from Happiness Boutique. Happiness in a small box it is. A simple parcel that contains a fanciful pair of earrings and an elegant necklace. Life's more beautiful when you surround yourself with pretty things, don't you think? It's perfect timing because it's my friends' wedding. Oh, I'm so happy to finally see her get hitched. She and her fiance were my favorite neighbors when I was living alone. So, to the wedding I went and celebrated their milestone---with my Happiness Boutique jewerlies. It was a happy day. Happiness Boutique: Happiness In A Small Box The items Dainty Flower Earrings Material: zinc (nickel and lead free). Pastel Colors Statement Necklace Material: zinc (nickel and lead free), acrylic, rhinestones. The verdict Packaging: I love that they took extra care by wrapping the items in bubble wraps separately. The box was simple but nice. There was a card that contains instructions on how to care for the jewelry. It has a short note for me too. Design: I definitely love how the jewelries sparkle especially in the light. The design is very posh and versatile. You know it will not go out of style any time soon. I chose the product because I think it will be easy to find a dress or top that will match with it. And I was right. Superb quality for the price. Did I say I love it? The customer representative was also professional and helpful. So it's a breeze transacting with them. My dress was really simple, but I felt elegant. I was confident because I chose the right accessories---thanks to Happiness Boutique! I got to see good friends, I witnessed a marvelous cerebration of love, and I was more than satisfied with my look. Oh, happy day! We define our happiness. Happiness for me is surrounding myself with people who appreciates me for who I am, laughing my head off over silly jokes, and catching up with friends I don't always see. Happiness is a heart full of gratitude at the end of the day because you know that somehow, you've done something right in your life to deserve wonderful friends. Happiness is witnessing true love being celebrated. Happiness is a pair of dainty earrings and a pretty necklace to go with your dress. Yeah, happiness can be found everywhere if you know where to look. Disclaimer: I have received these products from Happiness Boutique free of charge in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own. 📸: Carlo Vicente If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
